《A Second Chance with the CEO After Divorce》
Chapter 1
?Chapter 1:
¡°Sorry, Ms. Nelson, you haven¡¯t been able to keep the baby,¡± the doctor said gently to the woman before her.
Belinda Nelson sat in the doctor¡¯s office, her eyes fixed on her phone screen as she absorbed the grave news, distractedly scrolling through her newsfeed.
Disyed on the screen was an image of a man and a woman exiting the airport side by side.
The woman, identified as Cathy Miller, was a burgeoning star in show business, recently returned from a three-year educational stint abroad. Apanying her was Kristopher Cox, CEO of the leading Cox Group in Nawrin.
Unbeknownst to the public, Kristopher was also Belinda¡¯s spouse and the father of her unborn child.
The onlinements celebrated the pair as a perfect match, oblivious to the fact that Kristopher had been secretly married for thest three years.
With a heavy heart, Belinda locked her phone and faced the doctor. ¡°So, the baby¡ didn¡¯t survive?¡±
The doctor, sympathy evident in her eyes, shook her head. ¡°Ms. Nelson, given your terminal condition, your body has been unable to nourish the fetus for quite some time.¡±
She slid the pregnancy termination notice across the table toward Belinda. ¡°The fetus is now deceased. We must proceed with the abortion soon to safeguard your health.¡±
Belinda nced back at her phone, a bitter smile touching her lips as she caught sight of the online chatter about the celebrity couple.
¡°Please, arrange the surgery.¡±
She had once hoped for a child more than anyone else. Despite her best efforts, she had failed to sustain the pregnancy.
Perhaps the child sensed that Kristopher wouldn¡¯t be kind to them after Belinda¡¯s passing, and so decided against entering this world.
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That was fine. She was now free to pass on without concerns.
While Belinday on the operating table, the doctor asked once more if any family members were with her. Just then, she overheard the nurses outside.
¡°I¡¯m so jealous of Cathy. She disappears for three years, and the moment she returns, she has the CEO of Cox Group by her side.¡±
¡°Cathy was Kristopher¡¯s first love. She moved overseas for three years, and he faithfully waited all that time. Kristopher¡¯s devotion to her is remarkable!¡± ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?
¡°But haven¡¯t you heard the rumors that Kristopher is married?¡±
¡°Pure spection! Kristopher adores Cathy deeply. He could never marry anyone else¡¡±
The nurses¡¯ chattering pierced Belinda¡¯s heart like daggers.
She shut her eyes tightly and murmured, ¡°It¡¯s too noisy.¡± The doctor then burst through the door, yelling into the hallway.
Silence enveloped the room.
As the doctor reentered, Belinda looked up serenely and instructed, ¡°No anesthesia, please.¡±
She was determined to endure the agony of losing her child.
She told herself this was what she deserved after years of blind devotion to Kristopher.
The ordeal in the surgery roomsted only half an hour, but the pain seemed endless, sweat soaking her body as her attachment to Kristopher and their unborn child slipped away.
Staggering out of the surgery, Belinda locked eyes with Kristopher, his gaze seething with fury.
He closed the distance swiftly, his hands mping down on her shoulders, his handsome face contorted with rage.
¡°Belinda! How could you decide to end our child¡¯s life without telling me?¡±
As she lifted her head, the sting of sweat blurring her vision, Belinda noticed a woman in a white dress behind Kristopher.
It was Cathy.
With a bitter twist of her lips, Belinda murmured, ¡°It seems I made the right choice.¡±
Kristopher had note alone to confront her about the abortion. He had brought Cathy, allowing her to witness Belinda¡¯s lowest moment, uncaring of how this spectacle would hurt her. What was left for Belinda to cling to?
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Chapter 2
?Chapter 2:
¡°Belinda!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze locked onto her, his normally tranquil eyes now ame with fury.
¡°How dare you say it¡¯s the right choice to end the pregnancy! The baby was ours! I had no clue about the baby, and you decided to terminate the pregnancy without even telling me!¡±
¡°Do you even care?¡± Belinda cut him off, raising her head to meet his gaze, now zing with rage.
¡°I tried to tell you. I called you two hours ago. Where were you then? I also sent you several messages before the surgery. Didn¡¯t you think to check?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s face tightened with rage.
Two hours ago¡ Cathy had justnded at the airport.
He scowled and pulled out his phone to see if he had indeed missed a call from Belinda.
As he stood there, scrolling through his call log and messages, a deep sense of despair took hold of Belinda.
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened as he checked his messages and WhatsApp. There was nothing.
He frowned, his icy gaze shifting to Belinda.
¡°I thought the airport was so loud that I missed your call. Turns out, you never even called.¡± He shed the screen of his phone, his expression dripping with scorn.
¡°A flood of calls and messages? You¡¯re slipping in your lies, Belinda!¡±
Belinda gave a cold, mocking smile.
¡°Am I the liar, or are you? You erased my calls and messages to pin this on me, didn¡¯t you?¡±
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As she spoke, she pulled out her own phone.
¡°Kristopher, did you forget that I have records too?¡±
Just then, a soft moan echoed from nearby.
¡°My belly hurts¡¡±
¡°Cathy!¡±
No sooner had Cathy¡¯s pained voice reached them than Kristopher was on his feet, rushing to her side.
¡°What¡¯s the matter? Is it your belly again?¡±
Cathy, tears streaming down her face, nodded.
¡°Kristopher, it hurts so much¡¡±
¡°Let¡¯s get you to a doctor. Hand me the registration form from earlier.¡±
Cathy meekly handed him the document, and together, they left, their closeness evident.
Belinda, fresh from an abortion, stood frozen, her phone clutched in hand as she watched her husband enter the obstetrics and gynecology department with another woman.
Lowering her gaze, she scrolled through her phone¡¯s recent call log, a bitter smile ying on her lips.
Even with proof that Kristopher was lying, what would it change?
It only highlighted how little he cared for her.
She had convinced herself that Kristopher was here for her, having seen her urgent messages.
Instead, he was merely apanying Cathy for a check-up and had stumbled upon her by chance. Chapters first released on find?novel
How absurd!
After picking up her medication, Belinda left the hospital. The moment she reached home, a sharp pain stabbed through her stomach, a burning sensation swirling within.
Grabbing a tissue, she dashed to the bathroom, where the toilet quickly turned red from her vomiting blood.
Clinging to the toilet, she lost track of time as she continued to vomit until she passed out.
She was nudged awake over an hourter by her cat, Fluffy. Gently patting the cat¡¯s head, she weakly made her way out of the bathroom.
Her body faltered, and after a few steps, she copsed with a loud thud.
Through her daze, she noticed a pair of handcrafted luxury leather shoes advancing towards her from the door, stopping right in front of her.
Then, a cold, mocking voice uttered from above, ¡°Belinda, you chose to abort the baby. Now you¡¯re ying the victim? Spare us the act. Nobody¡¯s falling for it.¡±
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Chapter 3
?Chapter 3:
Belinday on the floor, tasting the blood in her throat, as she pushed herself to stand.
¡°Why are you back?¡±
Wasn¡¯t he supposed to be at the hospital, doting on his precious Cathy?
Kristopher, watching Belinda¡¯s face twist in disdain, leaned back elegantly on the sofa.
¡°Cathy¡¯s just beginning to establish herself here. Imagine the scandal if it came out she was at the gynecologist today¡¡±
¡°And why should that concern me?¡±
Belinda narrowed her eyes, her smirk dripping with sarcasm.
¡°As your wife, who¡¯s just miscarried, should I be upholding your mistress¡¯ reputation?¡±
It was clear now why Kristopher had rushed back; he feared Belinda might expose everything and tarnish his beloved¡¯s future.
¡°How dare you use the word ¡®mistress¡¯?¡± Kristopher snapped back.
Belinda fixed her gaze on him, her words deliberate and biting.
¡°If Cathy valued her reputation, she wouldn¡¯t be involved with a married man, wouldn¡¯t have health issues, and certainly wouldn¡¯t seek treatment at public hospitals.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes darkened with fury.
¡°You knew Cathy held my heart even when you married me. And still, you let my grandfather marry us while I was unconscious. How can you call her a mistress?¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile soured.
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¡°Yes, I made a mistake then.¡±
Three years earlier, after Kristopher¡¯s car ident left himatose, Cathy had fled the country.
Belinda believed Cathy had truly left him for good, prompting her to implore his grandfather, Anthony Cox, to arrange their marriage. She vowed to nurture him for as long as she lived.
For nearly six months, she tended to him with great care, and gradually, Kristopher began to recover.
The severe gastric cancer she developed wasrgely due to the erratic lifestyle she maintained while caring for him.
She had naively believed her sincere affection would thaw his heart, but instead, she found herself drained and forced to end her pregnancy.
As hiswful spouse, she was powerless to call Cathy a mistress without facing his sharp rebukes.
It became evident that Kristopher was ungrateful and would never be touched, no matter how much she cared for him.
With this realization, Belinda gave Kristopher a bitter smile and resignedly said, ¡°If it¡¯s her you want, so be it.¡± She knew it was time to let go of herself.
The marriage should have dissolved long before, but it was she who had desperately clung to it.
The despair and surrender in her gaze seemed to annoy Kristopher.
¡°What are you implying?¡± he demanded.
¡°Kristopher.¡±
A chill enveloped Belinda¡¯s heart.
After five years together, as their rtionship neared its conclusion, Belinda was surprised by her own serenity, unable to muster even a tear.
¡°Let¡¯s get a divorce.¡± Latest content published on findnovel
¡°A divorce?¡±
Kristopher paused, then sneered. ¡°What game are you ying, Belinda? Aborting our child and now seeking a divorce? If I agree, you¡¯ll tell my Grandpa that I forced you to do it, won¡¯t you?¡±
¡°I have never gone to your Grandpa toin. I didn¡¯t before, and I won¡¯t start now.¡±
Belinda smirked as she squatted down and retrieved the divorce papers from the drawer of the coffee table.
Just then, the ringing of a phone cut through the silence.
¡°Cathy.¡±
Kristopher sprang to his feet, his voiceced with anxiety.
¡°What¡¯s the matter? Okay. I¡¯ll be right there!¡±
He ended the call swiftly, grabbed his jacket from the sofa, and made for the door.
Belinda, clutching the divorce papers, frowned deeply and called out to him, ¡°Sign these before you leave. It¡¯ll only take a second.¡±
He seemed not to hear her at all. The door mmed shut behind him as he left.
Belinda shut her eyes, sinking into a brief silence. Eventually, she opened her eyes, picked up a pen, and signed her name on the final page of the agreement.
Tossing the papers back onto the table, she scooped up her cat, Fluffy, and ascended the stairs to pack.
While packing, she called her friend Madisyn Thomas in Rozand toe get her.
It had be clear to her.
In Kristopher¡¯s eyes, she paled inparison to Cathy.
A single call from Cathy was enough to make him disregard herpletely.
She had been harming herself over a man who now seemed trivial, especially as she faced stage IV stomach cancer with only three months to live.
Resolved, she decided she no longer wanted to waste her remaining time on a marriage that had no future.
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Chapter 4
?Chapter 4:
A weekter, in Rozand¡
¡°You¡¯ve really slimmed down,¡± Madisyn remarked, setting food in front of Belinda. She sighed deeply. ¡°I¡¯ve been buying you so much food every day this week, yet somehow you keep losing weight.¡±
Belinda was peeling shrimp, eyes lowered. ¡°I think I look better this way, don¡¯t you?¡±
¡°You¡¯re too thin now!¡± Madisyn sighed with sympathy. ¡°You once filled out my evening dresses, and now, look at you. We¡¯ll need new outfits for the uing party.¡±
After tossing the peeled shrimp into the cat¡¯s bowl and calling over Fluffy, Belinda softly asked, ¡°What party?¡±
¡°Remember? You wanted your jewelry designs to hit the market in three months,¡± Madisyn reminded her.
Her face fell into a pout. ¡°I spoke to a fewpanies. They can do custom orders, but mass production andunching take more time. To meet your three-month deadline, we need someone who can expedite and who likes your style. I found out about a party happening tonight. It¡¯s not just local jewelers, but also merchants and designers from other cities. I thought we could go and see if anyone¡¯s interested in your designs,¡± she suggested hopefully.
Seeing her friend¡¯s dedication, Belinda felt motivated.
She petted Fluffy gently. ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since Ist attended a party. I can¡¯t always stay at home.¡±
Watching Belinda¡¯s broad smile, Madisyn paused before speaking, her tone reflective. ¡°You remember that you always wondered who would attend every time I invited you to a party? You were always worried about Kristopher and didn¡¯t want to upset him.¡± Madisyn¡¯s smile faltered slightly. ¡°And now you don¡¯t even ask?¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile was soft yet sad. ¡°I¡¯m still healing. Let¡¯s leave my ex out of our night, shall we?¡±
In the evening, at the Summit Hotel banquet hall¡
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Belinda made her entrance at the banquet in a striking red evening gown featuring a deep V-neck, a backless design, and a daring high slit. Her slender figure, entuated by the bold red, immediately drew envious looks from the crowd upon her arrival.
Upon noticing the stares, Madisyn leaned towards Belinda and whispered, ¡°You see, I told you this vibrant and seductive style suits you. You always chose such dignified and elegant dresses, fitting the role of Mrs. Cox. Actually, they never really suited you!¡±
Belinda offered a charming smile in response. ¡°I¡¯ll remember that.¡± Having spent a week recuperating, she had resolved to change her approach.
Just then, a man came over and asked her to dance.
Belinda epted with a nod and elegantly made her way to the dance floor with her newpanion.
Upstairs in the banquet hall, Kristopher reclined in his chair with his eyes shut, listening to his assistant Marc Lewis¡¯ report.
Distracted by the vivid red figure below on the dance floor, Marc reported with a frown.
¡°Why did you stop?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s voice was cool and detached, his eyes remaining firmly shut.
Marc paused briefly, then promptly refocused andpleted his report.
¡°Any news from her?¡± Kristopher asked nonchntly after receiving the report.
Marc hesitated for a moment before quickly replying, ¡°Your mother messaged me this morning. She said Belinda¡¯s still resting at home. Everything¡¯s fine.¡±
Upon hearing this, Kristopher scoffed dismissively. ¡°Heartless.¡± He then grabbed his phone and scrolled through his messages with Belinda.
Thest one from her came a week ago. She had advised him to cut down on his coffee intake at work.
Previously, she would message him incessantly, almost like an overbearing mother.
Now, a whole week had passed without a single word from her.
She hadn¡¯t even offered an exnation for her secret abortion.
If it weren¡¯t for the daily updates from his mother asserting that Belinda was recuperating at home, Kristopher might have thought she had disappeared altogether.
In the past, any argument between them would have seen her apologizing within a couple of days.
But this time, she seemed determined to stand her ground.
Marc let out a small sigh as he observed this.
He knew that Kristopher might talk a big game, but he was less formidable in action. He publicly disyed his irritation, seemingly awaiting an apology from Belinda¡
Yet, behind the scenes, Kristopher not only had his mother personally care for Belinda but also checked in on her condition daily, frequently pulling out his phone to see if she had messaged.
However¡
Marc hesitated for a long time before finally mustering the courage to point towards the dance floor below and ask, ¡°Mr. Cox, is that woman Mrs. Cox?¡±
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Chapter 5
?Chapter 5:
Hearing this, Kristopher opened his eyes and peered in the direction Marc indicated.
Below on the dance floor, amid a crowd of dancers in ck and white, one figure in vibrant red captured his attention.
A woman in a red dress was waltzing intimately with a man d in ck, her back to Kristopher.
It was evident from their movements that she danced not only with grace but also with more skill than her partner, who she seemed to be subtly leading.
Kristopher furrowed his brows and nced at Marc. ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s time to get you a new pair of sses.¡±
The woman they observed disyed solid dancing skills, unlike Belinda, who had been mistakenly taken away as a baby and only returned to the Nelson family from the countryside at eighteen. Having missed out on many opportunities, Belinda had never learned to dance.
Marc had to be mistaken. This couldn¡¯t be Belinda.
Just then, the woman in red turned around.
Marc paused, then stubbornly gestured again towards her. ¡°Mr. Cox, it looks like¡ it really is your wife!¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? FindN0vel
Kristopher shifted his gaze back to the dance floor with impatience.
When he finally saw the woman¡¯s face, he was stunned.
It was indeed Belinda!
Narrowing his eyes with anger, Kristopher studied her closely. Her lips were a bold red, her expression unmistakably clear and captivating.
Her makeup was as bold as the red dress she adorned.
Three years into their marriage, he was just now seeing this unexpected side of her. She was yful and vibrant beneath her usual poise and maturity.
His eyes lingered on Belinda¡¯s delicate fingers as they rested on another man¡¯s shoulder.
Here he was, expecting an apology, yet there she was, dancing with someone else right before his eyes!
With that thought, he turned and made his way downstairs.
¡°Kristopher!¡±
Just then, a clear, female voice called out to him.
Kristopher stopped and looked back.
Cathy was approaching, a smile on her face, gracefully lifting her gown.
¡°What a surprise to see you here!¡±
Kristopher quirked an eyebrow. ¡°What brings you here?¡±
¡°I¡¯m filming in Rozand. I heard about the jewelers and top-notch designers at the banquet tonight. I thought I¡¯d scout for some jewelry to potentially endorse. Downstairs, I noticed everyone dancing, and I realized I hadn¡¯t yet found the right dance partner.¡±
As she spoke, Cathy extended her hand towards Kristopher. ¡°Shall we go dance, Kristopher?¡±
Kristopher nced briefly at the woman in red on the dance floor, then agreed, ¡°Sure, let¡¯s go.¡±
On the dance floor¡
As the dance concluded, Belinda courteously said goodbye to her partner, who seemed hesitant to leave. Turning around, she collided with a man d in a navy blue suit.
¡°Belinda?¡±
Before Belinda could utter an apology, she was taken aback by a familiar voice calling out in surprise.
Looking up instinctively, she uttered, ¡°Darren?¡±
The man she faced was none other than Darren Wright, her senior from college.
During their school days, Darren had been a steadfast supporter, and there had been a time when Belinda thought she might have feelings for him. They hade close to being more than just friends.
However, her life took a turn when she met Kristopher, with whom she discovered the depth of true love. Consequently, she started distancing herself from Darren, and theirmunication dwindled over the years.
Therefore, she was so surprised to see him here after all this time.
¡°It¡¯s me,¡± Darren said with a polite smile, extending his hand towards her. ¡°Since we¡¯ve bumped into each other on the dance floor, care to dance?¡±
Belinda returned his smile and took his hand. ¡°Absolutely.¡±
Together, they stepped onto the dance floor.
From the staircase, Kristopher descended with Cathy. His eyes caught the sight of Belinda and Darren dancing.
¡°Is that Belinda?¡± Cathy inquired.
She clung to his arm, blinked innocently at Kristopher, and asked,
¡°Who¡¯s that man with her? They seem close.¡±
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Chapter 6
?Chapter 6:
Kristopher narrowed his eyes, his dissatisfaction growing.
He recognized the man dancing with Belinda. It was Darren. Kristopher hade across this man¡¯s details while looking into Belinda¡¯s past.
He was a senior from her school days, someone she had almost ended up with.
On the dance floor, they moved together with an unsettling closeness. Belinda was speaking, her gaze tenderly locked on Darren.
Her clear, gentle eyes and radiant smile pierced Kristopher like a dagger.
Every expression from Belinda was like a wound to his heart. Could it be that Belinda had shown up in Rozand without any prior notice, dressed like this, all for Darren?
It had been merely a week since they had lost their child. Was she already seeking sce in someone else¡¯s arms?
¡°Kristopher?¡±
When Kristopher remained silent, Cathy let out a sigh.
¡°Maybe you should go to Belinda.¡±
As she spoke, she lowered her eyes. ¡°She might be hurt seeing you with me. Perhaps that¡¯s why she¡¯s dancing with other men. Go to her. Don¡¯t let me be the reason your rtionship suffers.¡±
¡°I have no rtionship with her.¡±
Cathy barely started before Kristopher shifted his attention away and cut her off. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we be dancing?¡± He offered his hand to her. ¡°Come, let¡¯s dance.¡±
For the past three years, he and Belinda had kept their marriage a secret, seldom appearing together at public gatherings. On the rare asions they did attend the same parties, they behaved as if they were mere acquaintances.
Maybe Belinda was certain that he would always treat her as a stranger in public, no matter what, which emboldened her to dance with other men right before his eyes.
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No matter, he thought, there would be ample time to address this when they returned to their home in Nawrin.
With that thought, he turned away and escorted Cathy onto the dance floor.
As Kristopher and Cathy, a perfect match to the public, stepped onto the dance floor, others were inspired to invite their own partners to join them.
The mood at the party quickly picked up.
Seizing the moment, the host grabbed a microphone, his voice crackling with excitement. ¡°Let¡¯s add a twist to the evening! The spotlight will fall on two couples, and they¡¯ll swap partners. You¡¯ll have one minute to dance with your new partner. Let¡¯s make sure to keep to the rules!¡±
After he finished speaking, the lights began to sway.
Perhaps because Belinda¡¯s red dress was too eye-catching, the lights continually highlighted her. She obediently followed the rules of the game, changing partners twice in session.
From a short distance, Kristopher could clearly see that whenever Belinda danced with a new partner, her face was always adorned with a polite, gentle smile.
He had thought such a gentle smile was reserved only for him!
But now, he realized she offered that same smile even to strangers. His eyes narrowed, a chill settling in them as his expression darkened.
¡°Belinda seems quite popr.¡±
Sensing Kristopher¡¯s intense gaze, Cathy leaned closer to him, her voice tinged with a trace of sadness as she said, ¡°I¡¯ve been in the entertainment industry for so many years, yet I still feel uneasy acting with male actors I¡¯m not familiar with. But Belinda, she seems sofortable with everyone.¡±
As she spoke, she feigned a sigh. ¡°I really must get some tips from Belinda when there¡¯s a chance.¡±
With each word she spoke, Kristopher¡¯s gaze towards Belinda turned even colder. The rightful source is find~novel
At that moment, both couples were suddenly illuminated by the spotlight.
The two beams on the dance floor lit up both Belinda and Darren, and Kristopher and Cathy.
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Chapter 7
?Chapter 7:
¡°Tonight¡¯s lighting technician must have a grudge against me,¡± Darren murmured, his hand slipping away from Belinda¡¯s slim waist.
Belinda shed him a yful smile and said with a twinkle in her eye, ¡°Darren, it seems fate loves to tease us.¡±
She then turned, her gaze drifting to another beam of light across the room.
Caught in its re stood a man, his expression icy and distant.
Belinda¡¯s smile stiffened.
Kristopher?
Why was he here? Was he searching for her? Or¡
Almost without thinking, her eyes flicked back to Darren.
There, she caught sight of his new partner, Cathy, whose displeasure was painfully clear.
A pang of sadness hit Belinda.
It all appeared to be just a mere coincidence.
Kristopher¡¯s gaze was fixed only on Cathy. How could he even be concerned about her whereabouts?
Belinda hesitated and didn¡¯t move. Then, a spotlight illuminated her on the dance floor, causing her to squint. From a distance, soft murmurs were audible.
Belinda¡¯s brow creased with reluctance as she briskly made her way toward Kristopher.
Throughout their three-year marriage, she had maintained discretion, keeping their rtionship hidden from those who needn¡¯t know. Now, as a divorcee, she felt even lesspelled to give people something to talk about.
It was merely a dance, something she might have done with anyone. Without the bonds of marriage, Kristopher was essentially a stranger.
With this thought, she walked up to Kristopher and offered a forced smile, saying, ¡°Hello.¡±
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She then extended her hand and gently ced it on Kristopher¡¯s shoulder.
Kristopher¡¯s frame tensed slightly.
He turned a cold gaze towards Belinda¡¯s hand on his shoulder, his lips curling with a hint of frost. Latest content published on f?ndnovel
¡°Why so formal?¡±
His hand, warm and dry, took hold of Belinda¡¯s waist firmly and yanked her close. ¡°You seemed quite close with the other men you danced with earlier. Why such formality with your own husband?¡±
As they moved together, he lowered his gaze to meet hers, his dark eyes brimming with icy contempt. ¡°We were married for three years, and I had no idea you could dance.¡±
The force of his grip caused Belinda to grimace.
She lifted her head, her smile tinged with coldness. ¡°There¡¯s so much you don¡¯t know about me.¡±
When they had just gotten married, Belinda had tried to impress Kristopher by inviting him to dance at a family banquet.
However, Kristopher had coldly rejected her, scoffing, ¡°What kind of dancing do you know? If you want to make fun of yourself, I don¡¯t mind. But don¡¯t get me involved.¡±
She attempted to exin that she was capable of dancing, but he simply turned and walked away.
That rejection had left a deep scar on Belinda¡¯s heart.
Since that day, she had stopped dancing.
But following their divorce, she found herself unexpectedly dancing with Kristopher.
A bitter smile crossed her face.
Anyway, she danced with Kristopher, which fulfilled one of her wishes before dying.
Though now, she no longer cherished that old wish.
¡°Indeed, there was much I was unaware of,¡± Kristopher admitted.
His icy voice cut through her thoughts. ¡°Before tonight, I had no idea that a woman who had undergone an abortion just a week ago would choose such revealing attire for a party. Nor did I suspect that the woman who appeared so fragile before mest week could travel to a distant city and dance so intimately with numerous men behind my back.¡±
He looked down at her, his gaze dripping with icy sarcasm. ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one who values your status as Mrs. Cox above all, always so dignified andposed? What¡¡±
¡°Now? Did you realize those tricks wouldn¡¯t work on me, so you came here to dance closely with other men, hoping to make me jealous? Belinda, you¡¯re overestimating yourself.¡±
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Chapter 8
?Chapter 8:
Belinda frowned at Kristopher¡¯s words. ¡°Kristopher, have you not been home for days?¡±
He seemed oblivious to her desire for a divorce, still assuming she orbited his world.
Kristopher¡¯s smirk turned icy. ¡°So, because I haven¡¯t been home, you chased me all the way to Rozand to crash this party?¡± His frosty tone sent a chill through Belinda¡¯s heart.
She knew she had guessed correctly.
A week after her miscarriage, her legal husband had yet to return home, unaware she had left him with a divorce agreement.
Despite her diminished expectations for Kristopher, his absurd remarks still cut deep.
What had made her so unyieldingly stubborn before?
Why had she believed her devotion could touch a man who never even gave her a second look?
Belinda¡¯s eyes, once filled with love and hope, now held only disdain as she looked at Kristopher, prompting him to raise an eyebrow in surprise.
The old Belinda always gazed at him with warmth and aspiration. But now, her gaze¡ It was as if she were looking at aplete stranger.
A wave of irritation swept over Kristopher, and he shot her a piercing look. ¡°Speak!¡±
¡°Mr. Cox?¡±
Jolted from her reverie, Belinda released her hand from Kristopher¡¯s and shed an icy smile. ¡°When do you want to sign the divorce papers and go to court with me, Mr. Cox?¡±
A flicker of confusion crossed Kristopher¡¯s eyes, his tone turning frosty. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±
¡°You¡¯ll see when you get home,¡± she remarked with a sly grin.
¡°Hopefully, our next meeting will be at the court to finalize things.¡± She then forcefully freed her wrist from his grasp and strode off quickly.
Kristopher¡¯s brow creased, and he nearly ran after her for an exnation.
But then the music changed, signaling a partner swap.
Cathy broke away from Darren and rushed to Kristopher, eximing, ¡°You¡¯re a much better dancer, Kristopher!¡±
She snuggled against him, yfully grumbling, ¡°That man was so rough. He stepped on my toes multiple times!¡±
Distracted by Cathy, Kristopher¡¯s attention shifted from Belinda.
Looking up once more, he saw Belinda exiting with Darren.
He even considerately draped his jacket over her shoulders.
Watching this, Kristopher felt a pang in his chest and a sudden urge to follow her.
¡°Kristopher,¡± Cathy said as she grabbed his hand, casting a worried nce at Belinda¡¯s retreating figure. ¡°Is something wrong? Did Belinda upset you?¡±
¡°Cathy,¡± Kristopher murmured, his brows knitting together as he gently shook off her grip. ¡°I need to handle something. Enjoy the party.¡± With that deration, he turned and walked briskly in the direction Belinda had gone.
¡°Ah¡ª!¡± Cathy¡¯s startled cry cut through the air.
Kristopher had only taken a few steps when a loud crash echoed behind him, followed by Cathy¡¯s agonized scream. He turned around, his expression darkening into a frown.
Behind him, Cathy had inexplicably mmed into stacked tall sses. The sses tumbled in an instant, shattering on the floor as shards flew in all directions, mingling with droplets of blood. Follow current nov?ls on f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?
¡°Cathy!¡± Kristopher eximed.
Rushing back, he saw Cathy¡¯s dress soaked in blood. He quickly lifted her, concern etched on his face. ¡°Are you alright?¡±
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Chapter 9
?Chapter 9:
¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Cathy dered, her lips smeared with blood. ¡°Kristopher, go find Belinda. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±
Kristopher frowned, lifting Cathy up. ¡°How can I not worry? You saved my life!¡±
A sly twinkle passed through Cathy¡¯s eyes.
Still, she feigned thoughtfulness. ¡°But Belinda, she¡¡±
As Kristopher nced at the shards embedded in Cathy¡¯s body, he furrowed his brows and interrupted, ¡°First, we need to get you to the hospital.¡± Discover more novels at find{n}ovel
He then hoisted Cathy in his arms and made his way toward the exit of the banquet hall.
Near the entrance, Darren was introducing Belinda to some renowned designers. ¡°This is my junior schoolmate, an incredibly talented individual,¡± he boasted.
Belinda smiled and began to greet them. ¡°Hello, everyone.¡±
Her introduction was cut short when a man rushing from inside collided with her, causing her to stagger and nearly fall. Darren quickly caught her by the shoulder to steady her.
As the pain subsided, Belinda looked up to see it was Kristopher, carrying Cathy in his arms.
Kristopher¡¯s eyes also found hers, then shifted to Darren¡¯s hand on Belinda¡¯s shoulder.
¡°Belinda.¡±
He paused, his icy gaze sweeping over her. ¡°Exin tonight¡¯s events within three hours.¡±
¡°Kristopher, it hurts¡¡±
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Before he couldplete his words, Cathy, nestled in his arms, whispered his name.
Kristopher¡¯s expression softened as he gazed tenderly at the woman he held. ¡°Let¡¯s get you to a doctor.¡±
With those words, he turned away from Belinda, lifting Cathy in his arms and leaving without a backward nce.
Belinda remained motionless, watching him leave, a sharp pang of pain twisting in her gut.
Kristopher had never looked at her with such warmth.
She had once believed Kristopher was naturally aloof.
Later, she understood he wasn¡¯t devoid of warmth; he simply couldn¡¯t show it towards her.
¡°Miss Nelson.¡±
In that moment, one of the designers next to her cast a wary nce her way and murmured, ¡°Are you acquainted with Mr. Cox?¡±
Belinda was snapped back to reality, her smile fading as she shook her head. ¡°Not at all.¡±
Although Cathy collided with a disy of wine sses, thankfully, the sses were sturdy enough to prevent serious harm, leaving her with only minor bruises.
Yet Cathy was always fragile. Despite the doctor¡¯s reassurance that her injuries would heal quickly without any scars, she feared they might impact her future. Overwhelmed, she spent hours crying in the hospital.
It was nearly eleven at night when Kristopher finally soothed her into sleep.
Exiting the hospital room, he looked to his assistant, Marc, who awaited him outside.
¡°Where¡¯s Belinda?¡±
Marc promptly responded, ¡°We¡¯ve just received word¡ She¡¯s already boarded her flight back to Nawrin.¡±
Back?
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion.
He had given her three hours to offer an exnation, yet she had fled without a word.
¡°Stay here and look after Cathy,¡± he instructed Marc. ¡°And apply for a route for me back to Nawrin. I need to see this through.¡±
Determined to confront her, Kristopher¡¯s mind raced with thoughts of what awaited in Nawrin.
Marc paused, uncertainty flickering in his eyes, before nodding decisively. ¡°Understood.¡±
At two in the morning, Kristopher¡¯s private jet touched down at Nawrin Airport.
Uponnding, he drove straight to his residence.
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Chapter 10
?Chapter 10:
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened as he stared at the darkened house before him.
Previously, no matter howte he returned, Belinda would always leave a warm yellow light on at home.
She believed that a single litmp could banish the cold, unweing shadows, making the house feel cozy and lived-in. But tonight, darkness enveloped the housepletely, not a single light shone through the gloom.
This stark absence seemed to carve a hollow space in Kristopher¡¯s heart.
He stepped out of his car, simultaneously dialing Belinda¡¯s number and unlocking the front door with his fingerprint.
As he flipped on the wall lights, a stark, emotionless automated message informed him that Belinda¡¯s number was no longer in service.
A chilling realization dawned on him as he scanned the empty house. All signs of Belinda¡¯s presence had vanished.
The fluffy pink slippers that usually waited at the door were missing. The bunny pillows no longer adorned the sofa, and even her cat, Fluffy, was nowhere to be seen.
With a heavy heart, Kristopher set down his phone and moved further inside.
A thinyer of dust covered the coffee table, upon whichy a divorce agreement, signed by Belinda.
The date on the document revealed it was drafted a week ago.
It was the exact day she had lost their child.
¡°Kristopher. Let¡¯s get a divorce.¡±
g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s offers tales worth telling
Belinda¡¯s words reverberated through his mind.
At that moment, he had dismissed it as a mere outburst of emotion, never truly believing that she would follow through.
His mother had reassured him daily over the past week, iming she was looking after Belinda and that everything was fine. He assumed Belinda¡¯s silence was just residual anger towards him. Th?s chapter is updated by find?novel
The revtion that his mother had been deceiving him all along struck him hard.
Belinda had left, leaving only the divorce papers behind.
His hands clenched, veins bulging with the strain.
Raised in the countryside by mistake, Belinda had always been estranged from her family, the Nelsons, and had not returned home once in their three years of marriage.
With hardly any friends in Nawrin either, where could she have gone sote at night?
The thought that she might be with the man who attended the party with her gnawed at Kristopher.
Frustrated, Kristopher grabbed his phone and called Marc, his voice edged with desperation. ¡°Find out where Belinda is, immediately!¡±
Marc¡¯s response was hesitant. ¡°Mr. Cox, I¡¯ve looked into it. Belinda canceled all her contact numbers a week ago. She¡¯s also turned off any devices the Cox family provided her. All I could track was her flight back to Nawrin¡ But I can¡¯t pinpoint her exact location.¡±
¡°How is that possible?!¡±
Kristopher was seething with fury. ¡°You better stay up all night and figure it out. If you can¡¯t give me her location by tomorrow morning, you might as well go to HR and hand in your resignation!¡± He hung up the phone and surveyed the vacant house, his restlessness mounting by the minute.
Belinda was bing more and more out of hand!
Had she really managed to maintain the facade of a gentle and virtuous wife for three years before her true nature burst forth?
After pocketing his phone, Kristopher marched up the stairs with heavy steps.
The walk-in closet on the second floor was crammed with belongings; it appeared she had taken only a few outfits and her cat.
The bedside table¡¯s drawers were ajar, disying a collection of rings and nes neatly arranged inside.
Each piece was a gift from Marc, procured for her on holidays and anniversaries over the years.
Kristopher had barely given these trinkets a second thought, but to Belinda, they were treasures. She would often photograph them from various angles to share on social media and kept them meticulously stored in her drawer.
Now, however, the jewelry boxesy deserted, shrouded in dust, forsaken by Belinda just like her departure.
A pang of sorrow gripped Kristopher¡¯s heart as he looked at the abandoned treasures. In that instant, he felt a profound sense of abandonment, mirroring the neglected state of these cherished essories.
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Chapter 11
?Chapter 11:
Kristopher spent the entire night sitting on the bed, tormented by a profound sense of loss.
Throughout the dark hours, his thoughts swirled, leaving him restless. As dawn approached, at six-thirty, Marc¡¯s call pierced the silence.
¡°Mr. Cox, I¡¯ve located Mrs. Cox.¡±
Kristopher frowned, his voice raspy with urgency. ¡°Where is she?¡±
¡°She¡¡±
Marc hesitated on the other end. ¡°She¡¯s at Peace Hospital.¡±
¡°Peace Hospital?¡± Kristopher echoed, a tinge of shock in his voice. ¡°What¡¯s she doing there?¡±
Peace Hospital, the crown jewel of Nawrin, was globally acimed for its cutting-edge treatment of tumors, cancer, and other severe ailments.
Why would Belinda be there?
¡°I¡¯ve secured her hospital admission records through some exclusive channels,¡± Marc revealed.
After a brief pause, he continued cautiously, ¡°The records indicate she had a minor scrape on her finger and was concerned about a tetanus infection, so she checked herself into the hospital overnight.¡±
¡°A top-tier hospital for just a scraped finger?¡± Kristopher scoffed. ¡°She must be scheming to make me think she¡¯s seriously ill, just to get my sympathy, right?¡±
He hadn¡¯t grasped just how maniptive Belinda could be until now. Lost in thought, he sprang out of bed and demanded, ¡°Send me her ward number.¡±
The moment the call ended, Kristopher whirled around and marched out of the room.
A few stepster, a memory struck him; he pivoted and retrieved a jewelry box from the corner of the drawer.
Withiny a ten-carat diamond ring.
It was their wedding ring.
She cherished it deeply, asionally donning it for photographs, then meticulously returning it to its ce.
When Kristopher stared at the ring, Belinda¡¯s joyous expression when she wore it shed in his mind.
With a flicker of irritation, he snapped the jewelry box shut, slipped it into his pocket, and departed.
Once in the car, Marc texted him the address.
Kristopher checked it, his brow furrowing.
Belinda was in the critical care unit.
Such drama!
Did she really think a stay in the critical ward at Peace Hospital would convince him of her grave illness and earn his forgiveness? She was sorely mistaken.
He set down his phone, ignited the engine, and rushed towards Peace Hospital.
At Peace Hospital¡
Madisyn was at Belinda¡¯s bedside, offering her breakfast. ¡°What miracle drug had you rushing back from Rozand in the dead of night to try? You were even in such a rush. Couldn¡¯t you wait for morning?¡±
Belinda offered a faint smile. ¡°Anyway, there¡¯s not much else I can do, and the doctor mentioned this medicine is in short supply, so I hurried back.¡±
The night before, while the party at Rozand was winding down, she had received a call from Dr. Marlene Reid at Peace Hospital, inquiring whether she was interested in trying a novel treatment for her stomach cancer.
Immediately after the call, she left the party for the airport and boarded the earliest flight back to Nawrin.
Her luggage was collected by Madisyn upon arrival.
Whether the medication would prove effective or not, Belinda felt content knowing she had done all she could, leaving no room for regret.
Madisyn rolled her eyes. ¡°You don¡¯t have a terminal illness, do you? Was all that really necessary?¡± Th?s chapter is updated by FindN0vel
Belinda shifted the conversation with a light-hearted question. ¡°Did you manage to bring Fluffy back?¡±
Madisyn pressed her lips together. ¡°The little one behaved quite well, although he seemed to be searching for you all the way from Rozand to Nawrin.¡±
After a pause, she added, ¡°Speaking ofst night, it must¡¯ve been tough finding a flight, right?¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile widened. ¡°Darren sorted it out. He pulled some strings with a friend at the airline to secure ast-minute ticket.¡±
Hearing this, Madisyn¡¯s expression turned mischievous. ¡°Darren really cares about you. He texted me as soon as Inded this morning, asking me to take good care of you.¡±
Just outside the door, Kristopher had his hand on the doorknob, ready to enter, when Madisyn¡¯s voice, tinged with amusement, reached his ears. ¡°You know, if it hadn¡¯t been for Kristopher back in our school days, you and Darren would probably have ended up together.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s hand froze on the doorknob.
¡°Yes.¡±
Inside the ward, Belinda¡¯s voice was tinged with nostalgia. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t met Kristopher back then¡ I might¡¯ve married Darren by now.¡±
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Chapter 12
?Chapter 12:
¡°Yep, Darren was the first guy you befriended in college, and he¡¯s always been by your side¡ I¡¯ve always felt you two were perfect for each other. If Kristopher hadn¡¯te into the pictureter, you might have ended up with a big happy family with Darren, right?¡±
Lost in memories, Madisyn grew increasingly excited. ¡°You should¡¯ve taken my advice back then. Do you ever think about what might have been?¡±
Belinda responded with a slight smile, idly stirring her porridge, her tone t. ¡°Yes, I do wonder sometimes.¡±
If only she hadn¡¯t been so determined to marry Kristopher, if only she hadn¡¯t dedicated her whole being to that marriage, and if only she hadn¡¯t clung to what turned out to be a doomed rtionship for three long years¡
Maybe then she wouldn¡¯t be facing this terminal illness.
Reflecting on her past sacrifices, she felt a sense of foolishness wash over her.
With a heavy sigh, she murmured, ¡°But regret doesn¡¯te with a cure.¡±
¡°It¡¯s never toote,¡± Madisyn chimed in, oblivious to the fact that her friend¡¯s days were numbered. She offered a reassuring smile. ¡°Life still holds so much for you, and anything¡¯s possible. And honestly, Darren is always a better match for you than that jerk Kristopher!¡±
Belinda tasted the sharp sting of regret and quickly interjected, ¡°Darren is indeed a wonderful person, but as for us¡¡± ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? findnovel
Before she couldplete her thought, the door mmed open with a deafening crash.
Kristopher strode in, a frosty aura clinging to him from the chill outside.
He nced at Belinda propped against the hospital bed and said icily, ¡°If Darren is better than me, why were you so adamant about marrying me?¡±
¡°What do you mean, ¡®adamant about marrying you¡¯?¡± Madisyn countered.
As Kristopher entered, her temper ignited. His audacious words sent her into a rage. ¡°When youy there, unconscious, was there anyone else in Nawrin eager to be your wife? Even Cathy, the one you cherish, jetted off on a chartered ne within the night. It was only ourpassionate Belinda who couldn¡¯t stand seeing you alone and married you! Without her dedicated care, you¡¯d probably still be a living corpse lying in a hospital bed!¡± she snapped.
Kristopher sneered back, ¡°True, she did look after me. That¡¯s the only reason I¡¯ve kept her as my wife.¡±
He turned his icy gaze on Belinda, his voice emotionless. ¡°Belinda, I acknowledge your kindness, but remember, my tolerance has its limits. Don¡¯t push it!¡±
¡°Push it?¡± Madisyn scoffed coldly. ¡°You were blissfully unaware that Belinda was pregnant, and you audaciously went to pick up another woman at the airport the day she miscarried. You¡¯re the one who¡¯s gone too far.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brows knitted together tightly. ¡°This matter concerns only Belinda and me. It¡¯s none of your concern!¡±
¡°And how is it none of my concern?¡± Madisyn retorted, ring at him.
¡°Belinda¡¯s concerns are my concerns too!¡±
¡°Madisyn,¡± Belinda responded, her voice weary.
Leaning against the bed¡¯s headboard, she massaged her temples and then spoke to ease the tension. ¡°You haven¡¯t slept all night, have you? Why don¡¯t you get some rest? I need to speak with him privately.¡±
Madisyn pressed her lips together, her gaze filled with concern. ¡°Is there really more to discuss with him?¡±
She knew Belinda all too well and understood her feelings for Kristopher. She feared that Kristopher¡¯s gentle words might once again sway Belinda to forgive him.
Belinda, sensing her concern, reassured her with a smile. ¡°There¡¯s quite a bit left to sort out about the divorce.¡±
Relieved by her words, Madisyn grabbed her coat and went to the door.
Pausing, she threw Kristopher a warning look. ¡°Belinda is still vulnerable. Don¡¯t you dare mistreat her, or you¡¯ll answer to me!¡±
Once Madisyn had exited, Kristopher shifted his position and took a seat in a nearby chair.
Crossing his legs and leaning back, he surveyed Belinda with an icy, prating stare. ¡°So, you¡¯re serious about the divorce?¡±
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Chapter 13
?Chapter 13:
Kristopher sat just ten feet away from Belinda, the distance seemingly magnified by the cool detachment on his face, as if they were in separate universes.
Belinda, gazing at his impassive expression, forced a smile. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve made my decision,¡± she affirmed.
Throughout their three-year marriage, Belinda had often contemted leaving him, yet she struggled to sever the ties.
She once clung to naive hopes concerning him.
Belinda had believed that if there was even a shred of humanity in Kristopher, he might recognize her virtues and fall for her.
Now, having relinquished her illusions, she looked back, deeming herself foolish for squandering her youth and vitality on someone who had never genuinely acknowledged her presence.
Kristopher remained oblivious to the despair in Belinda¡¯s eyes.
Distracted by his phone, he retorted, ¡°You secretly ended the pregnancy, fled our home, unted another man before me, and now you¡¯re demanding a divorce¡ What are you trying to gain with all this drama?¡±
His words tightened a knot in Belinda¡¯s heart.
sping her hands together tightly, she responded, ¡°Do you really think I¡¯ve gone through all this just to gain something from you?¡±
¡°Isn¡¯t that the case?¡±
Kristopher arched an eyebrow. ¡°Remember when I offered you two hundred million to divorce me? What was your response? You imed that two hundred million couldn¡¯t possibly equate to your feelings for me, and you refused the divorce.¡±
With that, he pulled out the divorce agreement Belinda had previously left at the vi and flung it towards her. ¡°Two years ago, you wouldn¡¯t divorce for two hundred million, but now you¡¯re the one initiating it and even willing to walk away empty-handed? Belinda, your act needs to be more convincing!¡±
?????????v?????.co?? for more reading
The dusty document struck her face like a p.
Indeed, two and a half years ago, when Kristopher had just woken up, she had refused to divorce.
It wasn¡¯t because she thought two hundred million was insufficient; she simply couldn¡¯t bear to part with him.
Now, her past affection had be a weapon for Kristopher¡¯s scorn. Belinda offered a self-mocking smile as she picked up the divorce papers. ¡°Isn¡¯t it better that I leave with nothing?¡±
¡°It is indeed very good,¡± Kristopher responded, his face expressionless.
¡°It would be even better if you were serious about the divorce.¡±
¡°I am serious,¡± Belinda asserted.
She inhaled deeply, lifting her gaze to meet his with aposed and solemn demeanor. ¡°Kristopher, after three years, I¡¯ve reached my limit. Now that Miss Miller has returned and I¡¯ve lost our child, let¡¯s part ways amicably and divorce.¡±
As she spoke, she lifted her hand skyward. ¡°I promise, as soon as you sign the papers, I¡¯ll join you at the courthouse right after I¡¯m out of the hospital. You won¡¯t hear from me again.¡±
Her eyes, once brimming with affection for Kristopher, now reflected sheer fatigue and a sense of defeat. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find~novel
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened as he really looked at her for the first time in a long while. She seemed utterly changed.
Her face was void of emotion, stirring an unexpected emptiness in him. Turning away, he broke eye contact. ¡°I get it that this outburst is because of Cathy.¡±
He stood, towering over her as she sat drained of color. ¡°Drop the act. Remain the dutiful wife. Cathy isn¡¯t out to usurp you, and you better not hassle her, wrap her in your dramas, or cause me any more trouble. You have three days to return home. Act like none of this ever happened.¡±
Belinda silently bit her lip.
Since Cathy¡¯s return to the country, she had resolved to abandon their marriage, yet Kristopher persisted in believing she posed a threat to Cathy.
It was his second warning.
How ironic!
As this thought crossed her mind, Belinda coldly lifted her gaze to meet Kristopher¡¯s, tamping down the swirl of emotions inside her. She calmly stated, ¡°I¡¯ll go arrange my discharge now, and then we can head to the courthouse for the divorce. Once that¡¯s settled, we¡¯ll be strangers to each other, and you won¡¯t have to fret over any harming to your precious Cathy.¡±
Kristopher scoffed and turned away, muttering, ¡°I¡¯m busy.¡±
¡°Kristopher!¡±
She bit down on her lip harder, trying to detain him, but all she received was a view of his retreating, indifferent back.
Agitated, Belinda felt a sudden sweetness flood her throat and spat out a mouthful of blood.
Just as Kristopher reached the elevator, he caught the sound of doctors and nurses hurrying towards Belinda¡¯s room, shouting, ¡°The patient in room 2306 is vomiting blood!¡±
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Chapter 14
?Chapter 14:
Ward 2306 was where Belinda was staying.
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he pressed the elevator¡¯s ¡®close door¡¯ button, his face devoid of any expression.
Before heading there, he had Marc pull up Belinda¡¯s medical records. Other than a recent surgery for a miscarriage due to malnutrition, her health record was clean.
Could she actually be vomiting blood?
Kristopher sneered, certain that Belinda had been faking it again. Content originallyes from find¡¤novel
When Belinda awoke, it was already dusk.
¡°Honey, you must have had a pleasant dream, so you refuse to wake up,¡± Madisyn remarked as she unpacked the food and set it before her. She sighed and uttered, ¡°Belinda, since you¡¯re already here, why not go for aprehensive check-up?¡±
She handed Belinda a fork. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking after you all week, yet it seems like you¡¯re deteriorating. Could there be anyplications from the abortion?¡±
Belinda fought back her difort and met her gaze. ¡°What could possibly be wrong with me? I just had a bad night¡¯s sleep, and that¡¯s it.¡±
She nced down, her brow furrowed slightly as she nibbled on her food. ¡°When I returned from Rozand to Nawrinst night, I came to this hospital immediately and alreadypleted my examinations. I¡¯m alright, and there¡¯s no need to worry.¡±
Relieved by the news, Madisyn asked, ¡°How did your discussion with Kristopher go today? Did he consent to the divorce?¡±
Upon hearing the word ¡°divorce,¡± Belinda¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°He refused.¡±
¡°Why won¡¯t he agree? You¡¯ve already relinquished all your shared property,¡± Madisyn questioned as she slid a straw into a cup of milk for Belinda. ¡°Moreover, I saw him online today, shopping at the mall with Cathy. He already has her now. Why is he hesitating to divorce you? Is he trying to keep his options open? That¡¯s utterly despicable!¡± While speaking, she passed the cup of milk to Belinda. ¡°What¡¯s your n now that Kristopher is stalling the divorce?¡±
Chapters live now at ??????¦Ò????????.c§àm
epting the cup, Belinda responded, ¡°I¡¯ll just disregard him and proceed with what I must do.¡± Her decision was firm.
Regardless of Kristopher¡¯s willingness, she resolved to end their marriage.
As she thought about this, she paused to take a sip of milk and nced over at Madisyn. ¡°Where did you end up putting Fluffy and my bags?¡±
Madisyn bit her lip, hesitating before exining, ¡°I had originally thought about taking your stuff and Fluffy over to my ce. But after you mentioned you didn¡¯t want to live with me, worried that the Cox family might drop by and disturb us, I changed ns. So, I managed to get an apartment from a friend of mine. I¡¯ve ced Fluffy and your luggage there. It¡¯s a two-bedroom apartment with a living room. One bedroom is yours, and the other room is set up as your office space. I¡¯ve tidied it up. It¡¯s neat and cozy. You¡¯ll find it much morefortable than staying in thatrge, empty house. And don¡¯t worry about Kristopher. He won¡¯t find it anytime soon, so you¡¯ll get your peace and quiet.¡±
¡°Thank you,¡± Belinda responded, her smile genuine as she felt a surge of gratitude. ¡°What can I get you as a thank-you?¡±
Madisyn thought for a moment. ¡°How about we go for a drink after you try the new medicine and are out of the hospital?¡±
A longing look crossed Madisyn¡¯s face. ¡°I still remember how we, along with Joyce, used to hit the bar regrly. But then Joyce had her ident, and you got married. It¡¯s just not been the same without anyone to go with. I haven¡¯t been back since. It¡¯s been three years.¡±
Seeing Madisyn looking disheartened, Belinda offered aforting smile. ¡°Alright, once I¡¯m out of here, we¡¯ll grab a drink together. Even though I can¡¯t drink, I can still hang out with you and have fun.¡±
Madisyn brightened up instantly. ¡°That sounds awesome! After spending three years with Kristopher, you deserve a break. Let me take you out for some real fun!¡±
Three days passed.
It was nine in the evening.
In the Cox Group CEO¡¯s office, after enduring a marathon international video conference, Kristopher leaned back in his chair, his long fingers massaging his temples as he closed his eyes to recuperate.
¡°Mr. Cox.¡±
Marc entered, setting a box on the desk. ¡°Your grandfather sent over some pastries intended for Mrs. Cox. The courier had also ryed a message from your grandfather, insisting that you and Mrs. Cox attend his eightieth birthday celebration in three days. He really misses her.¡±
¡°Send them to her,¡± Kristopher murmured, his expression clouded with fatigue.
Marc paused, lowering his gaze. ¡°I¡¯ve been trying, but I can¡¯t seem to reach her.¡±
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Chapter 15
?Chapter 15:
Kristopher¡¯s sharp eyes flew open. ¡°Can¡¯t reach her?¡±
The chill that radiated from him could have frozen the entire office. Marc nodded. ¡°Ever since she changed her contact infost time, I¡¯ve been unable to get the new number.¡±
Kristopher frowned as he checked the time. ¡°Did you check the vi?¡± It had been three days since hisst visit to her in the hospital.
She was meant to have returned there by now.
Marc hesitated. ¡°She still hasn¡¯te back.¡±
A sense of dread welled up in Kristopher as he raised an eyebrow. ¡°Did you check with the hospital? Is she still there?¡±
Marc shook his head. ¡°They discharged her yesterday, but no one knows where she went¡¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed, and his grip tightened around the armrest of his chair. ¡°Is this bing a pattern? Running away?¡± He had already given her one chance too many.
¡°Maybe¡¡±
As Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened, Marc treaded lightly. ¡°Maybe¡ could you reach out to her parents? Even though she isn¡¯t close to them¡¡±
Kristopher shot him a frosty look.
After a moment, he flipped through his phone contacts and called Belinda¡¯s father, Donovan Nelson.
¡°Belinda? She hasn¡¯t returned home.¡±
Confusionced Donovan¡¯s voice. ¡°We haven¡¯t heard from her in over six months. Mr. Cox, are you having issues with her? I¡¯ve always told you,ing from the countryside, Belinda¡¯s got a rough temper. Not nearly as easygoing as Gillian¡¡±
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With a scowl, Kristopher ended the call abruptly.
He mmed the phone down on the desk and closed his eyes, his annoyance palpable. ¡°Check if she¡¯s left the city recently! Pull up the road surveince! I want her found, even if I have to dig her out myself!¡±
He had given her a chance during hisst hospital visit.
Was she still not ready to drop this?
Why had Belinda be so unreasonably stubborn?
Kristopher¡¯s phone rang yet again. This time, it was a call from his friend, Elliott Russo. ¡°Kristopher, get yourself over to Nightfall, now!¡± Nightfall was the local bar.
Slumping back in his chair, Kristopher sighed deeply. ¡°I¡¯m really not in the mood, Elliott.¡±
From the other end, Elliott¡¯sughter boomed through the phone.
¡°Not in the mood? Let me send you a picture of someone stunning. You might change your tune after you see her. I¡¯ll be waiting!¡±
With a brisk click, Elliott ended the call.
Almost immediately, a message notification shed on Kristopher¡¯s phone.
He tapped it open, a scowl forming on his face.
The photo revealed a bustling bar scene.
Onstage, a man unted his eight-pack abs in a rousing dance, gradually shedding his clothing. Nearby, a woman d in a daring red dress, cheered on by her friends, reached out tentatively towards the dancer¡¯s abs.
Shockingly, the woman was Belinda!
Kristopher¡¯s breathing turned ragged as he stared at the photo. He had had Marc searching for her all night, and here she was, in a bar, boldly touching another man¡¯s abs.
¡°Marc, get the car ready. I need to get to Nightfall immediately,¡± he ordered.
Marc¡¯s response quivered. ¡°Understood!¡±
As they drove from Cox Group to the Nightfall Bar, Kristopher¡¯s eyes were glued to his phone screen, his gaze intense enough to burn a hole through it.
One week after her miscarriage, she had danced intimately with a stranger in Rozand.
Ten dayster, here she was, in another bar in Nawrin, touching a stranger¡¯s abs.
¡°Belinda, you truly are something else,¡± Kristopher muttered to himself.
The Maserati zipped through the streets.
Inside the Nightfall¡
Onstage, the show continued with a young man energetically performing a striptease.
Originally beside the stage, Belinda now stood on it, her presence shifting the mood.
She danced beside the young man, her movements syncing wlessly with his as he shed his clothing piece by piece. Belinda, stunning even without makeup, now wore enough to conceal her paleness, enhancing her allure and captivating charm.
This was the first time the young man had performed a striptease with such a breathtaking woman. Overwhelmed, he couldn¡¯t resist approaching Belinda right there on the stage.
Keeping in time with the music, he boldly took her hands and pressed them against his chiseled abs.
As Belinda¡¯s hands grazed the sculpted muscles of the man¡¯s lower abdomen, the crowd below erupted into cheers and screams.
Just then, Kristopher burst through the bar¡¯s doors and caught sight of Belinda on stage, her hands on the young man¡¯s abs.
Madisyn¡¯s voice rang in his ears, loud and clear.
¡°Belinda! That¡¯s the real you! Life¡¯s short! Let¡¯s live it up! Kristopher can go to hell!¡±
His expression darkening, Kristopher walked up and tapped Madisyn on the shoulder. ¡°And who¡¯s supposed to go to hell?¡± Get full chapters from Find?Novel
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Chapter 16
?Chapter 16:
Madisyn wasn¡¯t close to Kristopher and, being somewhat tipsy, failed to recognize his voice.
She nonchntly shrugged off his hand without looking back. ¡°I really hope that jerk Kristopher, who hurt my best friend, would just disappear forever! Look at her. She¡¯s clearly so much happier without that asshole around!¡±
Her words ignited another round of apuse in the bar.
On stage, Belinda was gracefully lifted into the air by the young male dancer, his hands securely around her waist.
¡°Wow!¡± Madisyn joined in the crowd¡¯s cheers, then nced back at the person standing behind her. ¡°You see, my best friend is¡¡± Her enthusiasm halted abruptly when she caught sight of Kristopher¡¯s stern face. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? F?nd-Novel
¡°You¡¡±
Her eyes went wide, but before she could add another word, the music cut off suddenly.
At the same moment, the bar lights flickered on, drenching the venue in a harsh, relentless light.
The abrupt brightness made everyone squint.
Belinda, still on stage, instinctively covered her eyes.
As her eyes adjusted to the sudden light, her expression turned to one of confusion, and she lowered her hand slowly. ¡°What the¡¡± She stopped talking abruptly, catching sight of the figure next to Madisyn.
He was dressed entirely in ck, his expression dark, eyes chillingly cold.
He brushed past Madisyn and made his way to the stage, his presence dark and menacing like a demon unleashed.
The young man who had been dancing with Belinda quickly positioned himself in front of her, asking anxiously, ¡°What do you want?¡±
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Kristopher paid him no mind, his voice curt. ¡°Get lost.¡±
Hismand, delivered with chilling authority, sent a ripple of tension through the crowd. Onlookers watched the unfolding drama with held breaths.
The young man faltered, then reluctantly stepped aside.
Belinda approached Kristopher with a mischievous smirk. ¡°Came for me, did you?¡±
His response was a frosty re. ¡°What do you think?¡± he snapped.
¡°Miss.¡±
The intensity in Kristopher¡¯s gaze was so rming that the young man feltpelled to intervene, although he no longer dared to obstruct Belinda. Instead, he gently pulled on her sleeve and murmured, ¡°Should I call the police?¡±
¡°There¡¯s no need,¡± Belinda reassured him quietly, her smile unwavering. ¡°He¡¯s my ex-husband.¡±
The word ¡°ex-husband¡± ignited Kristopher¡¯s rage.
¡°Ex-husband?¡± he repeated incredulously, his stare piercing. They hadn¡¯t finalized their divorce yet, and here she was, already referring to him as her ex?
¡°Will be soon enough,¡± she reassured the young man before shifting her gaze to the man standing in front of her. In aposed tone, she suggested, ¡°Let¡¯s talk somewhere more private.¡±
Noticing he hadn¡¯t moved, she quickly added, ¡°You don¡¯t want the headlines tomorrow to scream about the Cox Group¡¯s president causing a scandal in a bar, right?¡±
Kristopher finally walked off the stage, his expression unreadable.
Belinda sighed in relief and offered the young man a reassuring smile.
¡°Keep the show going. I¡¯ve got something to take care of.¡±
The young man looked concerned. ¡°Then¡ Will youe back?¡±
As Belinda followed Kristopher down from the stage, she chuckled lightly. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll be back.¡±
¡°Alright. I¡¯ll wait for you!¡± the young man called out, hope in his voice. The moment his words faded, the stage lights brightened, and the music resumed.
Kristopher forcefully led Belinda away from the stage and into a private room, mming the door behind them. The door clicked shut, locking automatically.
Kristopher¡¯s eyes red with rage. ¡°You leave the hospital and your first stop is toe here and watch men strip?¡±
He moved closer to Belinda, his toneced with disdain. ¡°I had no idea you were so dissolute.¡±
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Chapter 17
?Chapter 17:
¡°Dissolute?¡± Belinda scoffed, looking up at Kristopher¡¯s sharply defined face. ¡°I just touched a guy¡¯s abs. It¡¯s not as scandalous as you¡¯re making it out to be.¡±
¡°You¡¯re upset with my words?¡± Kristopher responded, his eyes zing with fury as he grasped her chin. The source of th?s content is f?ndnovel
¡°A married woman, making contact with men in a nightclub, embracing them on stage. Tell me, am I mistaken?¡±
Belinda¡¯s brows furrowed as she tried to pull away from his grip. ¡°I¡¯m no longer married. We¡¯re divorced! I¡¯m single now. Whether I choose to touch a guy¡¯s abs or bring someone home, it¡¯s not your concern!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze darkened, his toneced with a threatening edge. ¡°I don¡¯t remember agreeing to any divorce.¡±
His fingers tightened excruciatingly on her chin, the pressure mounting. ¡°Belinda, unless I sign those papers, you remain Mrs. Cox, bound by marriage!¡±
The sharp pain clouded Belinda¡¯s thoughts, and she instinctively grabbed his arm. ¡°Release me!¡±
The disparity in their strength was overwhelming. Despite her best efforts, Belinda couldn¡¯t loosen his hold. His fingers mped down even harder on her chin.
Trapped, with no escape, Belinda¡¯s frustration boiled over. ¡°Why haven¡¯t you signed the divorce papers yet? I¡¯ve decided to divorce you so you can be with your beloved Cathy. Haven¡¯t I sacrificed enough? For the past three years, your indifference to me was clear. Our marriage was never public, your mind always on Cathy. The moment she returned, I filed for divorce to clear the way for her. Isn¡¯t that enough for you? Why won¡¯t you release me? Why keep me bound to you?¡±
Her fierce outburst caused Kristopher¡¯s grip to loosen.
He scowled. ¡°Whatever I have with Cathy doesn¡¯t concern you.¡±
Belinda tried to wriggle free, but to no avail.
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Irritated, she snapped, ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t bother with you two. It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t divorce me. But don¡¯t mess with me while I¡¯m unwinding at a bar, feeling a guy¡¯s abs!¡±
Kristopher fixed her with a piercing gaze, then abruptly seized her wrist.
Belinda, taken aback, attempted to reim her hand, but he pressed it firmly against his sculpted abs.
Her eyes widened as she realized where her hand was ced.
With a forceful motion, Kristopher pushed her hand deeper into his abdomen.
¡°Is this what you wanted?¡± he taunted, his tone dripping with contempt. ¡°Why seek it from strangers?¡±
She had a husband who was impressively built.
Belinda stood frozen, her hand resting on the warmth of his chiseled abs, her heart racing.
Despite three years of a secretive marriage, Kristopher had always kept physical distance from her, except in intimate moments. Even in front of their families, their closeness never went beyond brief arm links.
This was the first time, aside from when he had been unconscious, that she had the chance to touch his abs.
¡°Are you pleased?¡± he asked, noticing the blush on her cheeks and the hint of panic in her eyes.
Her reaction was familiar; she always blushed when he touched her.
If she still loved him, why was she considering a divorce?
It seemed she was merely trying to capture his attention. ¡°Not exactly.¡±
Trying to mask his satisfaction, Kristopher watched as Belinda withdrew her hand, her tone even. ¡°They¡¯re not quite as impressive as others.¡±
She wiped her hand with a tissue, as though she had touched something unpleasant.
¡°Mr. Cox, instead of constantly shopping and unting around with Miss Miller, perhaps it¡¯s time you considered visiting the gym more often.¡±
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Chapter 18
?Chapter 18:
Kristopher¡¯s stunning face shifted to an icy demeanor in an instant. He stared at Belinda¡¯s hand as she wiped it with a tissue, his teeth clenched. ¡°What exactly are you implying?¡±
¡°Exactly that.¡±
Belinda sneered as she tossed the tissue into the trash. ¡°It¡¯s one thing for a man to age, but another to remain oblivious andpare himself to those who are fitter and younger.¡±
She shot Kristopher another look. ¡°Maybe if you spent less time with Miss Miller and more time at the gym, she might find you appealing.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened.
His eyes narrowed, and the chill emanating from him seemed to freeze the air. ¡°You¡¯re growing audacious, Belinda.¡±
Kristopher was the epitome of the golden boy. When had he ever been talked down to like this?
¡°Merely stating the facts.¡± For more chapters visit F¦ÉndNovel
Seeing the frost in his gaze, Belinda smirked, her satisfaction palpable. ¡°I¡¯ve said my piece. I¡¯m out of here.¡±
She quickly swung the door open, aiming to leave before Kristopher¡¯s temper could ignite.
But she wasn¡¯t fast enough.
As she moved to exit, Kristopher pulled her back.
The door mmed shut with a resounding thud.
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Kristopher pushed her against the firm, icy surface of the door.
The force nearly drew a cry of pain from her.
Before she could react, he loomed over her, pinning her in ce.
He grasped her chin and delivered a fierce, imposing kiss.
Kristopher¡¯s kiss was sudden and forceful.
Belinda¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief.
She had anticipated him getting upset by what she said. She even thought he might finally consent to the divorce.
But this? This was unexpected.
He pulled her close and kissed her passionately.
It wasn¡¯t until his tongue forced her lips apart that Belinda snapped back to her senses and began to resist.
¡°Stay still,¡± hemanded, his voice now deep and filled with lust. ¡°You called me old, said I couldn¡¯t satisfy you. Isn¡¯t this what you¡¯ve been asking for?¡±
As he spoke, his hand crept up her skirt, his tone menacing. ¡°You¡¯ve been so distanttely. Is this why? To provoke me? I¡¯m going to give you exactly what you want.¡±
As she felt the warmth of his touch, the reality of his intentions dawned on Belinda.
Her eyes widened in terror. ¡°Kristopher! We¡¯re in a bar!¡±
Trapped against the door, the pulsating beats and muffled conversations from the bar still audible, she realized the gravity of the situation.
And Kristopher wanted to continue here?
¡°What does it matter if we¡¯re in a bar?¡±
Blinded by lust, he dismissed her protests.
He restrained her arms above her head with one hand, while the other explored her body. His lips brushed against her ear.
¡°You threaten me with divorce, flirt in ces like this, stir me up¡ Is it because Cathy¡¯s back and you feel threatened? You wanted to drive me to this, didn¡¯t you? If you¡¯re so desperate for it, I¡¯ll give it to you right here!¡±
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Chapter 19
?Chapter 19:
¡°Kristopher!¡± Belinda cried out, a hint of desperation in her voice. As he reached to remove her underwear, she could no longer contain herself. ¡°Do you remember that I just had a miscarriage ten days ago? If you want to kill me, just do it directly. There¡¯s no need to degrade me like this!¡±
Her words nearly erupted into a scream.
She had once thought of Kristopher as a decent and responsible husband, despite hisck of affection.
But now, she realized that hecked not only love but also respect and care for her as his wife.
His indifference was clear. He showed no concern for her well-being or dignity, especially now as he overpowered her, driven by his disregard and the contentious divorce she insisted on.
Her voice, tinged with tears, caused Kristopher to halt his forceful embrace. Hisrge hand, which had been around her waist, froze. He looked down into her angry, tear-filled eyes. The burning desire in his gaze extinguished immediately.
After a tense silence, he frowned and muttered, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±
¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize to me,¡± Belinda retorted, pushing him away and straightening her clothes. Fighting back tears, she dered, ¡°Just sign the divorce papers. This isn¡¯t a tantrum, and I¡¯m not vying for your attention against Miss Miller.¡±
She sniffed, took a tissue from the side, and dabbed at her tears. ¡°You were right from the start. I never consulted you when we got married. It was just my own fantasy. Now that Miss Miller has returned, I¡¯m setting us both free.¡±
Kristopher watched the chill in her gaze, his eyebrows knitting together as he pulled a cigarette from his pocket. Just as he was about to light it, Belinda¡¯s indifferent words shed through his mind, and he reluctantly put it back.
He retreated a step and slumped onto the couch, his eyes shadowed with barely noticeable weariness. ¡°I asked for a divorce before, and you said no. Now you¡¯re asking for a divorce because you¡¯ve decided to let it go?¡±
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¡°Is it so wrong to change my mind?¡± Belinda replied, pulling out her mirror and foundation. She began touching up her makeup with nonchnce. ¡°People change. I didn¡¯t want a divorce before because I had feelings for you¡¡±
¡°And now?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s lips curled into a sardonic smile. ¡°You don¡¯t have feelings for me anymore?¡±
¡°That doesn¡¯t matter anymore,¡± she stated firmly. ¡°What does matter is that I want a divorce now.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened at the mention of divorce once again.
¡°We can discuss the divorceter,¡± he said, leaning back against the sofa with rxed grace. ¡°Do you remember what¡¯s happening in three days?¡±
Belinda hesitated for a moment before a sudden realization hit her. ¡°Is it your grandfather¡¯s birthday?¡±
Kristopher scoffed. ¡°I thought you¡¯dpletely forgotten. He remembered your fondness for sweet pastries. He even sent some over today and instructed me to bring you to his birthday celebration. Yet here you are, attempting to sever ties with the Cox family by any means necessary.¡±
Taking a deep breath, Belinda stowed her makeup mirror and foundation, pulling out her phone to mark the date three days from now. ¡°I¡¯ll be at his birthday.¡±
Herpse was perhaps due to the advanced stage of cancer that had recently deteriorated,pounded by her recent anxieties. She had nearly forgotten Anthony¡¯s birthday.
Anthony, the kindest soul in the entire Cox family, had always treated her like his own granddaughter. She wouldn¡¯t dream of missing his birthday, especially since she had only three months left to live. This celebration might very well be thest birthday of Anthony¡¯s she could attend.
¡°You really should make it this time.¡±
Kristopher rose, approached Belinda, and took her phone from her hands. With precise movements, he dialed his number into it.
Once the call connected, he handed it back to her. ¡°Recing your contact details when you¡¯re still unable to break away from the Cox family is hardly mature.¡±
With those words, he strode towards the door.
However, as he swung the door open, he was met by the young man who had earlier been speaking with Belinda on stage.
Upon seeing Kristopher at the door, the young man paused momentarily before sidestepping him and entering the private room. His voice,ced with concern, asked Belinda, ¡°Everything alright?¡±
¡°Your ex-husband hasn¡¯t caused you any trouble, has he?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze immediately darkened, chilling with the frost of the words ¡°ex-husband¡± spoken by the other man.
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Chapter 20
?Chapter 20:
Kristopher turned his head, casting a chilly nce at Belinda. ¡°Mrs. Cox, since you remember that you had a miscarriage less than a month ago, why don¡¯t you go back and rest early? You shouldn¡¯t be here, wrapped in the arms of indecent men.¡±
With those words, he turned and walked away swiftly.
¡°Who are you calling indecent?¡± the young man called out, his voice rising as he red at Kristopher¡¯s departing figure. ¡°You don¡¯t have to pretend to care about her well-being. I¡¯ll look after her!¡±
Kristopher paused momentarily, then resumed walking without turning back.
¡°You don¡¯t truly care for her, but¡ª¡±
¡°Enough.¡±
Belinda frowned, cutting him off. ¡°Don¡¯t say any more.¡±
¡°You don¡¯t even know who I am. There¡¯s no need to provoke him on my behalf.¡±
¡°Miss.¡±
The young man diverted his gaze and offered her a smile. ¡°I¡¯m aware your name is Belinda.¡±
He then extended his hand towards her. ¡°I¡¯m Fred Schmidt. Madisyn paid me five hundred bucks to say those words.¡±
Belinda paused, augh escaping her lips. ¡°No wonder.¡± Chapters first released on find?novel
She was well aware of her own allure; it was hardly enough to have a young man she¡¯d just met go to such lengths for her. However, if Madisyn was behind this, it all clicked into ce. ¡°Thank you.¡±
Taking a deep breath, she ced aforting hand on Fred¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Where¡¯s Madisyn?¡±
Find your adventure at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s??§àm (uso de ¡°?¡± y ¡°§à¡± cir¨ªlica)
Fred¡¯s cheeks turned a rosy hue under her amused gaze.
Clearing his throat awkwardly, he replied, ¡°Madisyn¡¯s at the bar, waiting for you.¡±
Raising an eyebrow yfully at him, Belinda smiled. ¡°Let¡¯s go then. I owe you a drink.¡±
Turning around, she strode away.
Fred remained rooted to the spot, watching her retreating form with undisguised admiration in his deep, dark eyes.
Truth be told, even if Madisyn hadn¡¯t offered him money, he would have sought her out.
¡°Belinda!¡±
As Belinda stepped out of the private room, Madisyn leaped to her feet, waving energetically. ¡°Over here!¡±
With a sly grin, Belinda took a seat beside her. ¡°Really, Madisyn? Only five hundred to persuade someone as young and good-looking as Fred to woo a divorced woman like me? That¡¯s a bit low, don¡¯t you think?¡±
Madisyn chuckled, passing a juice to Belinda with a smirk. ¡°The market price is two to three hundred tops. I handed Fred five hundred. It was nearly double!¡±
Leaning in close, her voice a conspiratorial whisper, she added, ¡°Did you see Kristopher¡¯s face when he left? Tsk, tsk. He even ignored his friend Elliott¡¯s hello.¡±
She nudged Belinda yfully. ¡°So, has he agreed to the divorce yet?¡±
Belinda signaled the bartender for a cocktail for Fred and stirred her juice absentmindedly. ¡°His grandpa Anthony¡¯s birthday bash is in three days. He wants to wait until after that.¡±
Madisyn rolled her eyes. ¡°He¡¯s just making up excuses to avoid the divorce! This man is utterly despicable. He¡¯s with Cathy now, yet he¡¯s stalling on the divorce. Mark my words, after Anthony¡¯s birthday, he¡¯ll find another reason to dy.¡±
She nced at Belinda again. ¡°Are you really going to Anthony¡¯s birthday party? Rosie and Maggie will be there too. After all the years they¡¯ve mistreated you, I doubt they¡¯ll go easy on you this time. You¡¯ve just recovered from a miscarriage. Are you sure you¡¯re up for this?¡±
Madisyn¡¯s words reminded Belinda that Kristopher¡¯s mother, Rosie Brown, and his younger sister, Maggie Cox, had given her a hard time. Lowering her gaze, she took a sip of her ice-cold juice.
¡°I¡¯ll be there. In the past, I overlooked Rosie and Maggie¡¯s behavior to keep peace with Kristopher and avoid family drama.¡±
She set down the straw and gave Madisyn a faint smile. ¡°This time, I won¡¯t let them push me around.¡±
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Chapter 21
?Chapter 21:
Three dayster, the grand banquet hall at the Star Hotel was aglow, buzzing with lively excitement.
Despite Anthony¡¯s request for a modest birthday gathering this year, the turnout was evenrger than before, no doubt due to his grandson now leading the Cox Group as CEO.
Belinda, clutching a present, waited at a crosswalk when she noticed Kristopher.
He emerged from one side of a sleek ck Porsche, while Cathy appeared from the other.
Dressed in a gown of royal blue velvet, Cathy wasplemented by Kristopher¡¯s matching, hand-tailored bespoke suit.
Their striking attire made them the immediate focus of attention.
Murmurs filled the air around her.
¡°Isn¡¯t that Cathy, the actress who just came back from overseas, with her boyfriend?¡±
¡°Yes, that¡¯s Kristopher, the CEO of Cox Group. Today¡¯s his grandfather¡¯s birthday, so he¡¯s introduced his girlfriend to the family.¡±
¡°They¡¯ve already been introduced to each other¡¯s families. Looks like they might even talk about getting married.¡±
¡°And those matching outfits? They¡¯re really unting their affection, aren¡¯t they?¡±
Amidst this, Belinda stood by, her ears catching every word from the onlookers, as she watched Cathy loop her arm through Kristopher¡¯s and they walked into the venue together. A pang of bitterness surged through her.
Despite being her husband for three years, Kristopher acted as if she were a stranger in public, let alone thinking about the public disy of affection by wearing matching outfits with her.
He unabashedly disyed his affection for Cathy while keeping his marriage to Belinda a secret.
L?t??¦Ó ch¨»¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?????.??????
She was at a loss, unable to grasp why he wouldn¡¯t just divorce her.
Could he be punishing her for marrying him against his wishes?
¡°Beep! Beep!¡±
The distant sound of a car horn jerked Belinda out of her thoughts. Regaining herposure, she realized the traffic light had turned green. With a relieved exhale, she merged with the crowd and crossed the street.
Upon arriving at the hotel, Belinda recognized the source of the earlier honks. It was a red BMW parked at the entrance.
It was the same vehicle Kristopher had given to Maggie for her birthday two years prior. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? Find?Novel
¡°Well, well, isn¡¯t this my sister-inw?¡±
Maggie emerged from the car, mming the door behind her and standing with her arms folded before Belinda. ¡°I heard you had a miscarriage recently?¡±
Belinda halted, her brow furrowing as she returned Maggie¡¯s icy stare. ¡°How did you find out?¡±
She had kept the miscarriage a secret from the Cox family to spare Anthony the worry.
Only Kristopher and Cathy, whom she had bumped into at the hospital, knew about it.
Maggie¡¯s gaze was chilling. ¡°Your frail womb couldn¡¯t sustain the child, costing our family its future heir. We stopped concerning ourselves with you long ago. Yet, you dared to ask our mother to send someone to care for you? Mom forgot amidst her busyness, and you wentining to my brother, stirring trouble in our family. How could I possibly not know?¡±
Only days earlier, Rosie had phoned Maggie, sobbing uncontrobly one early morning. She revealed that she and Kristopher had had a severe argument.
Maggie spent quite some time consoling her mother before discovering that Belinda was at the heart of the issue.
She couldn¡¯t fathom why Kristopher was so invested in this woman, especially now that Cathy had returned.
Why did Kristopher be so furious just because Mom neglected Belinda?
Belinda couldn¡¯t suppress a smirk. ¡°Since when was that?¡±
Was the quarrel between Kristopher and Rosie really because of her?
That was indeed unusual.
Throughout their three-year marriage, Maggie had consistently tormented her.
Kristopher not only failed to protect her, but he also routinely dismissed Maggie as a spoiled brat who needed to grow up. He suggested that Belinda, being Maggie¡¯s elder sister-inw, should avoid squabbles.
What a joke! Maggie was only a month younger than her. If Maggie was still considered an immature child, did that make Belinda the responsible adult?
¡°How can you im ignorance when you orchestrated this whole scenario?¡± Maggie scoffed. ¡°You saw the closeness between my brother and Cathy just moments ago, didn¡¯t you? If I were you, I¡¯d end the marriage immediately, gather my belongings, and disappear. That¡¯s surely better than being kicked out like an unwanted stray dog.¡±
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Chapter 22
?Chapter 22:
Belinda cast a fleeting nce at Maggie. ¡°Did Kristopher fail to mention our divorce?¡±
Maggie¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Wait, you mean you two are going to get a divorce?¡±
Maggie recalled how Rosie had not only taken up all her time but also pressured her into an extravagant shopping spree that cost her a small fortune.
Fuming silently, Maggie had been waiting for the right moment to confront Belinda, armed with a barrage of cutting remarks.
However, she hadn¡¯t anticipated Belinda¡¯s bombshell. She intended to divorce her brother.
¡°Yes, I¡¯ve sent Kristopher multiple drafts of the divorce papers, yet he refuses to sign them,¡± Belinda scoffed, giving Maggie a scornful look. ¡°Instead of wasting your time humiliating me, why don¡¯t you convince your beloved brother to finalize the divorce soon? I have no desire to remain Mrs. Cox.¡±
With that, Belinda turned away, not sparing Maggie another nce, and walked into the hotel.
Maggie watched her leave, momentarily stunned, then hastily grabbed her phone to call Rosie.
¡°Mom, I just ran into Belinda, and guess what? She¡¯s been trying to get a divorce from my brother for a long time. It¡¯s him who¡¯s dying!¡±
At that moment, on the other end of the line, Rosie was just leaving the nail salon with Cathy¡¯s mother, Evelyn Miller, chatting excitedly about the uing birthday party.
As Maggie¡¯s words hung in the air, Rosie scoffed. ¡°Seriously? You¡¯re really falling for her nonsense? Everyone¡¯s aware of how much disdain Kristopher holds for her. Would he really stick by her side? Had Kristopher not been incapacitated in aa at the time, she wouldn¡¯t have had the chance to lead this kind of life! Before she became his wife, she was merely a country girl. After their marriage, she suddenly morphed into a poised and polished societydy. Do you honestly believe she would let go of being Mrs. Cox that easily?¡±
¡°You have a point.¡±
I@te$t ¡é#@pter$ In g@!novel$.c0m
Maggie scowled, a bit upset. ¡°I just caught Kristopher and Cathy entering together, all sweet and cozy. How could he be attached to Belinda and not be filing for divorce?¡±
Belinda¡¯s lies had nearly deceived her!
Rosie¡¯s anger red further when Maggie brought up Cathy. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for that brazen woman meddling, Cathy would have been my daughter-inw by now. Just look at this chaos¡¡±
Her agitation grew with every word. ¡°This evening, I¡¯m taking matters into my own hands and pushing for the divorce! Cathy has been waiting for three years. I refuse to make her wait any longer!¡±
Rosie abruptly ended the phone call in a huff.
¡°Calm down, Rosie,¡± Evelyn soothed, sitting close enough to have caught every word of Rosie¡¯s heated exchange with Maggie.
Although a part of Evelyn felt a secret satisfaction, she maintained aposed expression. ¡°Tonight, we¡¯re celebrating Anthony¡¯s birthday. Let¡¯s not spoil it. Cathy has been patient for years; she can hold on a little longer.¡±
Rosie scoffed dismissively. ¡°Absolutely not. Cathy has endured too much already!¡± The source of th?s content is Find_Novel(.
¡°Belinda!¡±
Upon entering the banquet hall, Belinda barely took a few steps before a resonant, eager voice reached her from across the room.
She turned reflexively to its source.
Darren, looking dapper in a crisp suit, was striding toward her, his face lit up with a grin. ¡°What a surprise to see you here!¡±
Momentarily taken aback, Belinda managed a smile. ¡°Darren, what brings you here?¡±
Closing the distance, Darren exined, ¡°Ourpany¡¯s teamed up with Cox Group, and my boss had us draw lots to see who¡¯de along tonight.¡±
Scratching his head with a sheepish grin, he added, ¡°You know my usual luck.¡±
His eyes twinkled as he looked at Belinda. ¡°And what about you? Are you here on business for yourpany too?¡±
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Chapter 23
?Chapter 23:
Belinda¡¯s smile stiffened momentarily.
She caught sight of the couple in blue outfits, cheerfully mingling with friends and rtives off in the distance, leaving her momentarily at a loss for words about how to present herself.
Thest time she had seen Darren at Rozand, he had inquired about her rtionship status.
She had sensed an affection from him then.
In an effort to gently reject his advances, she had fabricated a story about being married for three years to a devoted husband, convinced that the lie wouldn¡¯t matter since they were unlikely to meet again.
However, less than a fortnight had passed since theirst encounter, and now she found herself unable to confess to Darren that she was actually Anthony¡¯s granddaughter-inw.
¡°Belinda?¡±
Darren¡¯s voice pulled her from her reverie. He raised an eyebrow and shifted the topic with natural ease to Kristopher and Cathy. ¡°Mr. Cox has justunched a new venture, C&M Jewels, stepping into the jewelry market. With the substantial support of the Cox Group, I¡¯m confident that C&M Jewels will soon be a powerhouse in our field,¡± he exined, his voice carrying a hint of awe.
Darren then continued with a light sigh, ¡°As forst time at Rozand, when we were swapping dance partners, I had no idea those two came from such influential backgrounds. Had I known, I certainly wouldn¡¯t have passed up the chance to make their acquaintance.¡±
Hearing Darren¡¯s words, Belinda pressed her lips together, lost in thought.
Jewels?
C referred to the Cox family, and M must mean the Miller family. He had named his jewelry business after Cathy, emphasizing her significance to him.
Every tale finds a home at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s
¡°Belinda,¡± Darren called softly after a brief pause. He nced at her, his expression earnest. ¡°Do you think Mr. Cox will remember us if we go over and greet him now? Let¡¯s try it out.¡±
Before Belinda could protest, Darren took her by the wrist and began walking toward where Kristopher and Cathy stood. ¡°You interacted with Mr. Cox more than¡ª¡±
[Didst time. He¡¯s likely to recall you.]
Belinda¡¯s frown deepened, and she said in a hushed tone, ¡°I don¡¯t want to go.¡± Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n find~novel
¡°You always were a bit reserved, even back in school,¡± Darren murmured, continuing to gently guide her forward. ¡°But remember, in our business, it¡¯s all about who you know.¡±
The room buzzed with the chatter of the Cox family¡¯s rtives and business associates, all too familiar with Belinda¡¯s background. Wishing to avoid drawing any attention, she could only offer mild resistance, whispering, ¡°Darren, I really don¡¯t want to go¡¡±
¡°Kristopher.¡±
From a distance, Cathy caught sight of Belinda, who was being led by Darren.
Her face lit up with mischief as she grabbed Kristopher¡¯s arm and gestured toward Belinda. ¡°See that? It¡¯s Belinda over there. The guy clinging to her, we met him at Rozandst time. Remember? I even danced with him.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow creased as he followed Cathy¡¯s pointing finger. As his eyes locked onto Belinda, a flicker of surprise crossed his features.
Belinda was usually the epitome of grace and elegance at these gatherings. Everything from her gown¡¯s style and color to her meticulously applied makeup and tastefully chosen jewelry spoke of her refined status. But today was different.
She wore a vibrant yellow dress with a daring cut, her chestnut hair cascading freely.
Her appearance was both enticing and yful, capturing the attention of everyone around. When Kristopher¡¯s gaze shifted to Darren, who had his hands on Belinda, his expression hardened all of a sudden.
¡°Why did Belinda bring this man to Anthony¡¯s birthday celebration?¡± Cathy pretended to ask innocently.
Noticing the shift in Kristopher¡¯s mood, she tilted her head up, stirring the pot further. ¡°Kristopher, what¡¯s going on between that man and Belinda?¡±
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Chapter 24
?Chapter 24:
As they drew nearer, a chill crept into Kristopher¡¯s gaze.
¡°Belinda and that man seem to make quite the pair,¡± Cathy remarked, narrowing her eyes toward where Belinda and Darren stood. ¡°What¡¯s your take, Kristopher?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened, his mind reying Madisyn¡¯s words from theirst encounter at Peace Hospital.
¡°Darren was the first guy you befriended in college, and he¡¯s always been by your side¡ I¡¯ve always felt you two were perfect for each other. If Kristopher hadn¡¯te into the pictureter, you might have ended up with a big happy family with Darren, right?¡±
Irritation surged through Kristopher at the memory.
What was Belinda ying at?
Did she know he had overheard that conversation? Was she parading this guy around just to prove she could attract attention?
Or perhaps to spark jealousy in him?
¡°Mr. Cox, Miss Miller.¡±
Lost in thought, Kristopher barely noticed Darren approaching, Belinda in tow.
Darren greeted them with a polite smile. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if you remember us, but Belinda and I first met you during the partner swap dance at Rozand.¡±
He introduced himself with a formal air. ¡°I¡¯m Darren Wright, representing Sunrise Jewelry today.¡±
He gently pulled Belinda forward. ¡°And this is Belinda Nelson, an aplished jewelry designer as well!¡±
As Darren finished speaking, Kristopher¡¯s eyes finally fixed on Belinda.
Let your mind wander with g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s©q??????
¡°An aplished jewelry designer¡¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze was yful yet edged with sarcasm as he addressed Belinda. ¡°Miss Nelson, how long have you been in this field? Do you have any designs to show, or should I phrase it differently?¡± His tone shifted as he continued to stare at her, a mocking light twinkling in his eyes. ¡°Miss Nelson, do you truly understand jewelry?¡±
The mockery in his expression caused a pang in Belinda¡¯s heart. She adored jewelry design, yet financial constraints had led her to study education instead. The rightful source is F?ndNovel
They had shared three years of marriage.
If Kristopher had shown even a hint of interest, he would have known about her deep passion for design.
The day before she departed from the vi, her study was still brimming with sketches, yet her own husband, who lived under the same roof, never bothered to nce at them or learn about her interests.
Belinda inhaled sharply and held Kristopher¡¯s challenging gaze. ¡°Absolutely, I¡¯m well-versed in jewelry design.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes darkened with further scorn. ¡°Really?¡± he sneered. ¡°Then, could you make it clear to me¡¡±
¡°I don¡¯t need to justify my expertise to someone who doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Belinda interrupted him sharply. ¡°If you¡¯re curious about jewelry design, educate yourself instead of hassling a designer you barely know at your grandfather¡¯s birthday celebration.¡± Her firm words charged the air with tension.
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed, his gaze chilling into a frosty re.
Someone he barely knew?
Was that truly how she considered him?
¡°Mr. Cox,¡± Darren, picking up on the strained atmosphere, intervened. Aware of the discord at Rozand between Belinda and Kristopher, he slipped in front of Kristopher with a peace-making grin. ¡°Belinda might not have a way with words. If you need insights on jewelry design, I can help out.¡±
Kristopher shot Darren a cold look, his tone icier than before. ¡°Speak on her behalf? And what exactly is your rtionship with her?¡±
¡°I¡¯m curious as well,¡± Cathy added sweetly, looping her arm through Kristopher¡¯s. ¡°You two seem quite close. Are you dating?¡± Her voice was soft, almost soothing.
Meanwhile, Belinda¡¯s hands balled into fists at her sides, her fingernails pressing into her skin.
How ridiculous!
There stood Cathy, arm in arm with Belinda¡¯s own husband, inquiring if Belinda was romantically involved with Darren.
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Chapter 25
?Chapter 25:
¡°I mean, Belinda and I¡¡± Darren began, his cheeks coloring slightly as he awkwardly scratched his head after hearing Cathy¡¯s probing question. ¡°We haven¡¯t reached that point.¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? Find?Novel
Cathy burst intoughter as soon as Darren finished his sentence. She wrapped an arm around Kristopher, resting her head against him and leaning heavily. With a teasing lilt to her voice, she quipped, ¡°Haven¡¯t reached that point? So, you¡¯re saying there¡¯s a chance in the future?¡±
Darren couldn¡¯t help but join in theughter. ¡°For now, Belinda and I are just friends. But¡¡±
His gaze shifted to Belinda. ¡°Once she¡¯s free from her current marriage, I might make a move.¡±
The room¡¯s temperature seemed to drop suddenly.
Kristopher¡¯s expression hardened as he cast a chilling look toward Belinda, who stood behind Darren. ¡°You¡¯re aware she¡¯s still married, yet you¡¯re hovering around her?¡±
Darren offered a disarming smile. ¡°Mr. Cox, you misunderstand. My rtionship with Belinda ispletely proper. Besides¡¡±
He trailed off, a hint of concern in his voice. ¡°I¡¯ve heard her marriage has been in shambles for some time now. Her husband is hardly around, caught up with an old me, and barely notices Belinda. He even neglected her when she was ill.¡±
As Darren spoke, his eyes softened with sympathy toward Belinda. ¡°Once she¡¯s officially divorced, someone should appreciate what her husband failed to value.¡±
By the time Darren finished, the atmosphere had shifted significantly, and the expressions around the room soured.
Even Cathy, who had been all smiles, couldn¡¯t maintain her cheerful demeanor.
Her face tensed up, betraying her difort.
Kristopher scowled, his eyes cold as they swept across Belinda¡¯s pale features.
Was this what she conveyed to Darren about them?
His gaze unsettled Belinda.
Overwhelmed with embarrassment, she was at a loss for words. Thest time they had spoken, she had assured Darren that her marriage was joyful, her family ideal, and her husband¡¯s love profound. How had he uncovered the truth?
The tension in the room was pierced by the voice of Anthony¡¯s butler, Stanley Baker, who approached Kristopher with a respectful demeanor. ¡°Mr. Anthony Kristopher wants to see you.¡±
Kristopher halted, his attention shifting from Belinda as he pulled his arm away from Cathy¡¯s grip, poised to leave.
¡°I¡¯m apanying you.¡±
Cathy stepped forward swiftly, reaching for his arm once more.
¡°Miss Miller,¡± Stanley interjected with a frown, blocking her path. ¡°Mr. Anthony explicitly stated that no Millers should attend the gathering. How did you manage to enter?¡±
Color drained from Cathy¡¯s meticulously made-up face.
¡°I was the one who brought her.¡±
Kristopher faced Stanley, disying an unusual calm. ¡°It¡¯s time we resolve the misunderstanding between Grandpa and Cathy.¡± He sped Cathy¡¯s hand, turning to depart.
Yet, Stanley obstructed their path again, his smile hollow. ¡°I¡¯d suggest not disturbing Mr. Anthony today. You¡¯re well aware of whom he wishes to see.¡±
With those words, Stanley shifted his focus to Belinda. ¡°Madam, will you just stand here and observe? Mr. Anthony desires to meet both you and Kristopher.¡±
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Chapter 26
?Chapter 26:
Since Stanley insisted, Belinda let out a sigh and approached him.
¡°Belinda¡¡±
Darren¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°You¡¡±
¡°Darren.¡±
Belinda paused, offering him a resigned smile. ¡°I¡¯ll exinter.¡±
She then courteously nodded at Stanley. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±
Silently, she moved past Kristopher, heading toward the backstage area.
Shepletely ignored Kristopher.
Stanley shed Kristopher a smile and signaled him toe along. Kristopher shifted his gaze from Belinda, gently released Cathy¡¯s hand, and murmured, ¡°I need to visit Grandpa first. We¡¯ll talkter.¡±
Cathy, appearing both hurt andpliant, nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±
¡°Check in with Maggie or your mom. I¡¯ll see youter,¡± Kristopher reassured her quietly before he followed Stanley.
Darren remained, his expression stern as he watched Stanley lead them away.
He had clearly heard the butler¡¯s remarks, so¡
Belinda¡¯s husband, the one tangled up with an ex¡
Was Kristopher?
And the ex-girlfriend he was involved with¡
Darren¡¯s eyes shifted to Cathy.
L¨»¦Ó??¦Ó c§ß¦Á¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ??n g??l??ov?l??.??o??
¡°What are you looking at?¡±
With Kristopher gone, Cathy dropped her demure demeanor. She fixed Darren with a cold stare. ¡°Disgusting!¡±
With that, she turned and walked away briskly.
Trailing behind Stanley, Kristopher whispered just loud enough for Belinda to hear, ¡°Are you bad-mouthing me to win over Darren?¡±
Belinda shot him an icy look and replied tersely, ¡°I did not.¡±
No longer having any affection for Kristopher, Belinda found it was such a shame to let others know about her rtionship with him. So how could she tell such things to Darren? Checktest chapters at Find_Novel(.
Darren likely got his information from Madisyn, who probably wanted to get Darren and Belinda together sooner.
¡°I¡¯m hardly around, caught up with an old me, and barely notice you¡¡± Kristopher echoed Darren¡¯s absurd im in a monotone. He then scoffed, ¡°You¡¯re quite good at making stuff up.¡±
Belinda stopped in her tracks.
She turned around to face him. ¡°Making stuff up? And what part of that did I make up?¡± she challenged.
He had the nerve to use her of flirting with Darren, despite their interactions being nothing more than polite dances at public gatherings.
And yet, he spent his time with Cathy, who was always draped over him like a nket.
Kristopher gave her a cool look, his lip curling as he said, ¡°Quite the defensive response. Are you sure you didn¡¯t make up the whole story?¡±
Belinda narrowed her eyes at him.
In the past, she would have panicked at his usations, scrambling to rify things.
But now¡ it didn¡¯t matter.
¡°Fine, it¡¯s all made up,¡± she said with a dismissive smile. ¡°If you can¡¯t handle that, then let¡¯s just end this. Sign the divorce papers.¡±
Taking a deep breath, she sped up to catch Stanley and immediately began discussing Anthony¡¯s health with him.
Kristophergged behind, watching her move away. He overheard her talking about Anthony and felt an unfamiliar anxiety.
Previously, no matter what he used her of, she would have fiercely defended herself, afraid he¡¯d misunderstand her.
But now¡
All he got was her determined back and the single word: ¡°Divorce.¡±
Belinda¡
Had she truly stopped caring about him?
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Chapter 27
?Chapter 27:
In the backstage lounge of the event, quiet conversations murmured among the younger members of the Cox family.
Anthony was reclining in the main chair, his eyes closed, evidently disinterested in engaging with his grandchildren.
Only when the door creaked open did he scowl and nce up. Upon recognizing Belinda, his stern expression transformed into a broad grin. ¡°Belinda!¡± he eximed.
Springing to his feet, he approached her briskly. ¡°You¡¯re here!¡±
¡°Anthony,¡± Belinda greeted him with a smile, handing over the gift she had brought. ¡°Sorry I¡¯mte.¡± Find the newest release on F¦ÉndNovel
¡°Late? The celebration hasn¡¯t even begun!¡±
Anthony chuckled, epting the gift and guiding Belinda to his chair. ¡°I¡¯m delighted you made it!¡±
Throughout the encounter, hepletely ignored Kristopher, his biological grandson.
Kristopher, ustomed to his grandfather¡¯s indifference, followed without protest and sat down with no visible emotion.
¡°Look at Grandpa doting on Belinda as if she were his own,¡± Helen Walsh, another granddaughter, remarked sulkily from a corner. ¡°Though Kristopher doesn¡¯t seem to care about her presence at all. Now that Cathy¡¯s returned, it¡¯s only a matter of time before Kristopher shows her the door. She¡¯ll end up like a stray dog.¡±
Her voice was loud enough for everyone to hear.
¡°Watch your mouth!¡±
Carol Walsh gave her daughter a sharp nudge with her elbow.
Uncover new tales on g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s??om
¡°Kristopher and Belinda are doing just fine!¡±
¡°Belinda.¡±
After reprimanding her daughter, Carol nced at Belinda. ¡°Helen¡¯s still young. Try not to take her seriously.¡±
Despite Carol¡¯s seemingly apologetic words, her tone carried no real remorse, and a mocking smile yed at the corners of her mouth. She was confident that, regardless of her demeanor, Belinda would forgive her as always.
Over the years, Belinda¡¯s continual acquiescence had be the norm for them.
As expected, after Carol¡¯s remark, Belinda, who was busy preparing tea, responded with a graceful smile. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I won¡¯t hold it against you.¡±
Helen stuck out her tongue at Belinda, her face breaking into a mischievous grin. ¡°You only stay quiet because you know I¡¯m telling the truth. Isn¡¯t that why you won¡¯t argue with me?¡±
Bang!
Just as Helen finished speaking, a teacup shattered on the carpet right before her.
The room fell into a stunned silence, everyone¡¯s attention snapping to the head of the table.
Anthony¡¯s re was icy as he fixed it on Carol. ¡°You spent millions on this girl¡¯s education abroad, and this is what she brings back? Do those schools teach nothing but rudeness and gossip?¡± His voice was icy and unwavering.
¡°Dad¡¡±
Carol¡¯s mocking smile faded, reced by an awkward one. ¡°You¡¯re taking this too seriously. Helen was only joking with Belinda. Lighten up a bit.¡±
¡°Joking?¡± Anthony retorted sharply. ¡°I may be old, but I haven¡¯t lost my senses. I can tell the difference between a joke and an insult!¡±
¡°Anthony,¡± Belinda cut in, her voice gentle. ¡°Please, don¡¯t get upset. Helen was just joking.¡±
She offered him a cup of tea. ¡°Here, have some tea.¡±
Anthony exhaled deeply, his expression softening as he epted the cup.
¡°You¡¯re too forgiving. That¡¯s why they think they can push you around.¡±
Belinda remained quiet, focused on preparing the tea. ¡°It¡¯s okay. They¡¯re family.¡±
Kristopher, who was observing from a distance, felt a pang of difort at Belinda¡¯s subdued nature.
They had been married for three years, during which Belinda consistently bore her grievances silently.
Could it be that Belinda¡¯s resolve to divorce stemmed from her exhaustion with suppressing her feelings?
Belinda tried to defuse the situation, but Helen was relentless. ¡°If she hadn¡¯t insisted on marrying Kristopher while he was in aa, who would bully her? Isn¡¯t this her own doing? She¡¡±
¡°Shut up!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s icy, firm voice interrupted Helen before she could finish.
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Chapter 28
?Chapter 28:
Helen looked up, baffled, gazing at Kristopher as if she doubted her own ears. ¡°Kristopher?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened, his tone firm. ¡°What happens between Belinda and me is none of your business.¡±
Carol quickly silenced Helen, her hand over her mouth, whispering sternly, ¡°That¡¯s enough. Shut up!¡± Helenplied, falling silent.
The room sank into a deeper silence after the exchange.
Anthony shot Kristopher an icy look and said mockingly, ¡°I was under the impression you¡¯d forgotten Belinda was your wife.¡±
With a knowing smirk, Kristopher responded, his toneced with respect, ¡°Believe me, that¡¯s one thing I could never forget.¡±
Anthony¡¯s scoff was loaded with skepticism. ¡°If you really remembered, then why¡ª¡±
¡°Anthony.¡±
Before Anthony could continue, Belinda cut him off.
She handed him a cup of freshly brewed tea, offering a gentle smile. ¡°Here, drink some tea.¡±
Anthony¡¯s frown softened as he epted the cup, his voice mixed with concern and frustration. ¡°When will you learn to express your feelings? You keep everything bottled up inside, which isn¡¯t good for you. Look at you! You¡¯ve let it all get to you again. I haven¡¯t seen you in a month, and you¡¯ve lost so much weight!¡±
Anthony¡¯s words warmed Belinda¡¯s heart even as they brought a pang of sadness.
She wiped away a tear and managed a bright smile for Anthony. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m fine. Just cutting back a bit, you know?¡±
¡°Cutting back? You¡¯re already so skinny. Why on earth are you dieting?¡±
L§Ñt??t ch¨»pt?rs ?n g??ln¦Ïv?ls.??¦Ï??
¡°I just want to make myself look more beautiful. Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t go too far.¡±
She chuckled, pressing a teacup into Anthony¡¯s hands and yfully popping a pastry into his mouth. ¡°It¡¯s your birthday. Have some fun!¡±
Anthony sighed as he swallowed the treat, eyeing the teacup with a yful grimace. ¡°I do enjoy a good cup of tea, but you know, variety is the spice of life. How many cups does this make now? At least it¡¯s just tea. Otherwise, you¡¯d have me tipsy before the party.¡±
Even started!¡± Belinda gave a quietugh and continued preparing tea at the table. As the room¡¯s attention shifted elsewhere, she surreptitiously slipped some white powder into the tea.
Half an hourter, the birthday celebration officially began.
With everyone watching, Anthony, nked by Belinda and Kristopher, walked to the center stage and expressed his gratitude to all in attendance.
Despite his age, his voice filled the room with youthful vigor. Following his thank-you speech, a three-tiered cake made its way to him.
As the crowd serenaded him with the birthday song, Anthony extinguished the candles and dered his wish aloud.
¡°I hope to see Kristopher and his lovely wife Belinda blessed with a child soon. Hopefully by next year!¡±
A hush fell over the room.
Kristopher¡¯s public appearance with Cathy was no secret, and everyone knew that he was going to divorce Belinda.
The room was left in utter shock by Anthony¡¯s unexpected deration. In the wake of a profound silence, Darren was the first to break it with his apuse.
¡°It¡¯s truly moving to see Mr. Cox cherish his family so deeply, even dedicating his birthday wish to them,¡± Darren remarked.
His words brought everyone back to reality.
Apuse filled the room as someone eximed, ¡°Having someone like Anthony in the Cox family is a true blessing!¡±
With a warm smile, Anthony joined Belinda and Kristopher¡¯s hands. ¡°Listen to that apuse. It¡¯s all for you two.¡±
Tears welled up in Belinda¡¯s eyes as she bit her lip. ¡°Thank you, Anthony.¡±
Knowing Belinda might feel hurt and wronged, Anthony¡¯s wish was meant to protect her.
¡°Hold back your tears,¡± Anthony urged gently, patting her head before turning to Kristopher. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to dry her tears?¡±
With a frown, Kristopher nced at Belinda, took out a tissue, and was just about to dab her tears when Maggie¡¯s loud voice boomed from the crowd. ¡°Cathy!¡±
The tissue dropped to the floor. The rightful source is FindN0vel
Kristopher bolted from the stage, heading straight for Cathy. ¡°Cathy, are you alright?¡±
Belinda felt as abandoned as the tissue Kristopher had let fall, discarded and forgotten in an instant.
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Chapter 29
?Chapter 29:
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
Cathy, as pale as a ghost, slumped into Kristopher¡¯s arms, urgency in her voice. ¡°Why did you leave the stage? You should be up there with Belinda, helping your Grandpa make his birthday wishes and cut the cake.¡±
Tears filled her eyes as she gently pushed against him. ¡°Go back, it¡¯s just a sudden stomach ache, nothing serious. Don¡¯t let Belinda get the wrong idea.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened, but he held her even tighter. ¡°Is it very painful? Is it something serious?¡±
From the stage, Belinda watched them, a heavy feeling settling in her chest.
Kristopher tantly ignored Cathy¡¯s plea to avoid misunderstandings with Belinda.
Despite knowing for a long time that her feelings meant little to him, it still stung, especially today at Anthony¡¯s birthday celebration, surrounded by family and friends. He couldn¡¯t even feign interest in her.
¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Cathy murmured, casting a smug look at Belinda. She lowered her gaze and whispered to Kristopher, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Maybe the c upset my stomach.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed further. ¡°You know your stomach is sensitive. Why would you drink c? That¡¯s quite reckless!¡±
Belinda offered a wry smile in return.
She was in the advanced stages of stomach cancer, consuming painkillers by the handful daily, yet her husband remained oblivious. Meanwhile, Cathy had only juste back home, and he was already fussing over her sensitive stomach.
The irony wasn¡¯t lost on Belinda.
L?t?st ch¦Ápt?rs ¦Én g??l??ov§Ö???.????
Bang!
Suddenly, a loud crash resounded from the stage.
Everyone in the hall jumped and turned to see what had happened.
Anthony had furiously thrown a gift box onto the floor.
¡°Stanley!¡± Stanley, who had been some distance away, hurried forward with his head bowed. ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±
Anthony stroked his beard and fixed a stern re in the direction of Kristopher and Cathy. His tone was icy as he said, ¡°Didn¡¯t I make it clear that no Miller family member was to be invited? Why is she here at my birthday party?¡±
Though Anthony was old, he had once wielded considerable power in Nawrin. His seasoned voice still held such authority that it silenced the room instantly.
Stanley appeared ufortable, stealing nces at Cathy, who was in Kristopher¡¯s arms. ¡°We did try to intervene when Miss Miller arrived, but¡¡±
¡°I was the one who brought Cathy in,¡± Kristopher interjected, cutting Stanley off with a frown. ¡°Grandpa, there seems to be some misunderstanding about Cathy. I brought her here to clear things up, especially today at your birthday celebration.¡±
¡°Misunderstandings?¡± Anthony sneered. ¡°Miss Miller feelsfortable enough to wrap herself around a married man in full view of his wife. Believe me, there are no misunderstandings on my part about her character!¡±
Cathy¡¯splexion turned ghostly pale once again.
She nervously bit her lip and stepped away from Kristopher, her voice quivering, on the verge of tears. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to¡¡± Updates are released by f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
Kristopher moved to shield her, his expression hardening. ¡°Grandpa, please, that¡¯s not fair. Cathy¡¯s just feeling unwell; she has a stomachache.¡±
¡°A stomachache? And she needs to be in your arms for that?¡± Anthony retorted sharply. ¡°What, do you think your embrace can heal¡¡±
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Chapter 30
?Chapter 30:
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened.
¡°Anthony.¡±
As Anthony was about to speak, Belinda approached with a serene smile. ¡°You haven¡¯t cut your birthday cake yet.¡±
She gestured towards a group of children in the corner. ¡°Your grandkids are eager. Let¡¯s not keep them waiting.¡±
Anthony followed her gesture, noticing the children¡¯s anticipation.
¡°That¡¯s right, Dad,¡± Carol added, attempting to diffuse the situation. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t discuss our issues here, in front of everyone.¡±
Ignoring Carol, Anthony looked at Belinda with concern. ¡°Belinda, how much longer can you bear this? You have my sympathy!¡±
Belinda maintained her gentle smile. ¡°Today is about celebration, not grievances.¡±
Anthony studied her smile, then exhaled deeply. ¡°Out of respect for you, I¡¯ll drop it for today.¡±
He shot a stern look at Kristopher. ¡°Come on. Get up here and cut the cake.¡±
¡°Kristopher, you should go,¡± Cathy urged quietly, her lips quivering.
Kristopher eyed Maggie and Helen near Cathy. ¡°Look after her for me.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Maggie announced cheerfully. ¡°I¡¯ll take excellent care of my future sister-inw!¡±
¡°Maggie, stop that nonsense,¡± Cathy admonished, her cheeks reddening as she covered Maggie¡¯s mouth. ¡°Don¡¯t make people misunderstand¡¡±
Observing all this, Anthony nced at Belinda, who was busy arranging the cake knives, pretending not to notice the tension.
Exclusive updates avable g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s Fresh chapters posted on Find1Novel
With another sigh, Anthony chose to remain silent.
Soon, Kristopher returned to the stage to help Anthony and Belinda with the cake-cutting.
Although the room buzzed with renewed activity, the undercurrents of drama within the Cox family were palpable to all.
¡°Thank you,¡± Kristopher murmured to Belinda as they passed out slices of cake.
Belinda shot him an icy nce, her expression unreadable. ¡°Anthony is getting on in years. We should make things easier for him. He can get to know Miss Miller after our divorce. There¡¯s no hurry.¡±
She lifted her chin and resumed her task of serving the cake with poise.
Kristopher watched her glide away in her yellow dress and high heels, a sense of emptiness gnawing at him. Her eyes were unsettlingly serene.
Previously, Belinda had maintained aposed exterior in public to protect his reputation, yet she often lost herposure in private. Now, her gaze held nothing but indifference, stripped of any former warmth or passion, regardless of the setting.
Once the cake was served, the banquet officially started.
Cathy¡¯s earlier antics had caused Anthony to keep a close watch on Belinda during dinner, instructing Kristopher to load her te with her favorite dishes. Kristopher obliged.
Before long, Belinda¡¯s te was brimming with food.
¡°Is he feeding a pig?¡± Maggie scoffed under her breath, rolling her eyes.
Rosie, who was sitting nearby, chuckled. ¡°Remember, she¡¯s still getting over a miscarriage¡¡±
Belinda coughed loudly in an attempt to drown out Rosie¡¯sment. She didn¡¯t want such news to overshadow Anthony¡¯s joyful asion.
But it was toote. Anthony caught the remark.
¡°Miscarriage?¡±
His eyes snapped towards Rosie. ¡°Who had a miscarriage?¡±
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Chapter 31
?Chapter 31:
The room grew quiet.
Rosie began to speak but quickly realized she had revealed too much. She attempted a reassuring smile. ¡°No, you misunderstood.¡±
Anthony had no patience for her rification.
¡°Belinda,¡± he said, turning to her. ¡°Why do you look so unwell and thin?¡±
His question seemed rhetorical, his gaze suggesting he already held the answers.
Belinda dropped her gaze, her voice barely a whisper. ¡°Grandpa, I¡¯ll exinter¡¡±
She was reluctant to spoil his birthday celebration.
¡°Why wait?¡±
Anthony¡¯s hand thundered down on the table, his eyes piercing Kristopher. ¡°Is it because you were seen with Cathy, causing Belinda distress, leading to her miscarriage?¡±
¡°Grandpa,¡± Kristopher interjected, his brow creased with concern. ¡°Try to calm down, please¡¡±
¡°How can I remain calm?¡± Anthony¡¯s face flushed with fury. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking forward to a great-grandchild for three years! Belinda was finally expecting, and then she lost the baby! What kind of partner does that make you?¡±
Anthony¡¯s voice rose, capturing the attention of everyone in the room. Belinda, eager to deflect further scrutiny, remarked, ¡°Anthony, please don¡¯t me Kristopher. It was my carelessness that led to the fall and¡ the loss of the baby. We can discuss this tomorrow. The baby¡¯s gone, and one more day won¡¯t change that. Today is your birthday; we have all our rtives and business partners here. Let¡¯s not bring this up now, alright?¡±
Her voice trembled with a plea, her eyes brimming with earnestness. Anthony¡¯s hands balled into fists, his chest heaving with a sigh as he regarded Belinda with deep sadness.
¡°I know it¡¯s not the ce to air our grievances,¡± he started, his voice trailing off. ¡°But, Belinda, don¡¯t you ever feel unfairly treated?¡± Over the years, she had tolerated so much, only to face further neglect and scorn from Kristopher. ¡°It¡¯s alright,¡±
Your escape is on g ? ln ¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s
Belinda reassured him, a smile gracing her lips as she served some food into his bowl. ¡°Today is all about celebrating you. We can talkter.¡±
Watching herposed demeanor, Anthony exhaled a heavy sigh, his frustration evident, yet he chose to remain silent. Perhaps overwhelmed by the situation, he soon announced his fatigue and exited with Stanley¡¯s assistance.
With the guest of honor gone, several business partners also excused themselves.
Gradually, only family and close friends of the Cox family remained. Once the outsiders had left, murmurs began circting among those who stayed.
¡°Poor Belinda. Kristopher and Cathy were so overt in their actions, yet she held back Anthony from defending her.¡±
¡°What do you know? That¡¯s how a truedy of stature behaves. She must always carry herself with poise and generosity.¡±
¡°She was just a country girl before. Now, she¡¯s putting on a show, trying to act refined.¡±
¡°Exactly. She married Kristopher just to get her hands on the Cox family fortune. She wouldn¡¯t bat an eye if she caught Kristopher and Cathy together.¡±
¡°All she cares about is the money. It¡¯s so disgraceful.¡±
Despite the hushed tones, everyone at the main table could hear the whispers. Official source is
Kristopher frowned, casting a nce at Belinda.
She sat next to him, maintaining herposure and eating as if the whispers were meant for someone else.
¡°Ah, finally, Grandpa has left!¡±
Maggie exhaled in relief, beckoning Cathy. ¡°Cathy,e here!¡±
¡°Do you need me?¡±
Cathy quickly made her way to the main table.
¡°Yeah!¡±
Maggie eagerly took her hand, drawing her closer.
She then shot a sharp look at Belinda. ¡°Aren¡¯t you finished yet? I want some time with Cathy. Could you give us some space?¡±
¡°Excuse me.¡± Belinda got up with elegance. ¡°I didn¡¯t catch that. Could you say it again?¡±
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Chapter 32
?Chapter 32:
Belinda had be the main subject of the room¡¯s whispers, with several attendees stealing nces at her.
As she rose from her seat, the room¡¯s attention naturally settled on her.
Catching everyone¡¯s gaze, Maggie rolled her eyes and muttered, ¡°What, you can¡¯t hear me from here? Should I pay for a check-up for your ears?¡±
¡°Go ahead.¡± Belinda smiled softly and extended her palm to Maggie.
¡°That¡¯ll be fifteen thousand dors, thanks.¡±
Maggie was taken aback. ¡°Excuse me?¡±
Belinda echoed Maggie¡¯s earlierment with a smirk. ¡°Didn¡¯t you offer to cover my ear treatment? They¡¯ve been giving me troubletely.¡± She waved her palm impatiently and repeated, ¡°Time to pay up.¡±
Maggie recovered from her initial shock, her frustration evident. ¡°Fifteen thousand dors? Have you lost your mind?¡±
Belinda¡¯s grin grew. ¡°You rented out a whole barst week to host Miss Miller, dropping nearly thirty thousand in one evening. If you can ssh out on a stranger like Cathy, surely you won¡¯t skimp on me, your sister-inw? Or perhaps you would¡¡±
She hesitated, a sneer ying across her features. ¡°So you spent thirty thousand dors on Miss Miller for a spectacle, and now you¡¯re broke?¡± Maggie¡¯splexion shifted from red to pale in a heartbeat.
¡°Belinda,¡± Cathy cut in, her brow furrowed. ¡°Maggie was clearly kidding. As her sister-inw, you wouldn¡¯t really ept her money, would you?¡±
With a graceful sweep of her hair, Belinda replied in a steady tone, ¡°She volunteered to pay. She spent thirty thousand on your wee party, and now she¡¯s proposing to cover my hospital expenses. I¡¯m merely asking for fifteen thousand. I think that¡¯s quite fair.¡± She then turned her palm toward Cathy. ¡°Since you¡¯re so eager to defend her, why don¡¯t you pay the bill for her?¡± Cathy clenched her jaw.
Fifteen thousand was hardly a dent for her or Maggie, yet Belinda¡¯s arrogant smirk was intolerable.
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The mood thickened with tension as murmurs began to swirl around them.
Realizing the Cox family was once again bing the center of gossip at the event, Kristopher lost hisposure. He grabbed Belinda¡¯s hand and fixed her with a stern look. ¡°Weren¡¯t you the one who¡¯s supposed to be level-headed? What¡¯s all thismotion about?¡±
Belinda had previously endured public humiliations, but this time, she was standing her ground, all because Maggie had dropped a careless remark. She refused to let it slide, insisting on getting paid.
Belinda gave a chillyugh.
In the past, her sensibility had been mistaken for weakness; they had taken advantage of her, repeatedly mocking and disrespecting her. Tossing her hair back, she fixed Kristopher with an icy stare. ¡°So will you pay fifteen thousand for them, Mr. Cox?¡±
Kristopher scoffed, ¡°When have I ever skimped on you? Is there really a need to create such drama over fifteen thousand?¡± Fresh chapters posted on find?novel
Cathy, biting her lip, grabbed her handbag.
She quickly took out a bank card and put it in Belinda¡¯s hand.
Seeing that Belinda had received the card, Cathy faced her with tears in her eyes. ¡°Belinda, it¡¯s done. Please, let¡¯s not escte things with Kristopher over this.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown grew heavier. ¡°Cathy, why did you give the card to her? You don¡¯t owe her anything.¡±
He then turned to Belinda, his gaze icy. ¡°Give the card back to Cathy!¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t force her to give me the card,¡± Belinda countered with a frosty smile, quickly putting the bank card into her pocket. ¡°Miss Miller, you seem to have grown quite fond of my husband¡¯spany. Consider that a leasing fee. If you need his services again, consider him avable for rent.¡±
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Chapter 33
?Chapter 33:
Belinda¡¯s remark subtly transformed Kristopher into what seemed like amodity avable for rent.
The mood at the main table quickly became tense.
Kristopher narrowed his eyes, ring intensely at Belinda as if his gaze could ignite. ¡°Rent? So you see me merely as an item to be lent out at convenience?¡±
Cathy snickered silently, her face a mask of confusion. ¡°Belinda, what exactly are you implying? Kristopher is no mere object¡¡±
Belinda¡¯s smirk was faint but unmistakable. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then what exactly is the nature of your rtionship?¡±
She lifted her ss, delicately sipping the orange juice Anthony had thoughtfully provided. Then, turning towards Kristopher with increased volume, she demanded, ¡°Mr. Cox, would you care to rify?¡±
The discussion at the main table had already captured considerable attention, but Belinda¡¯s loud and clear pronouncement nowmanded the focus of everyone remaining in the room.
Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Belinda maintained an impassive expression, her voice cold and detached. ¡°You know well your Grandpa is unwell. Today marks his birthday, and I¡¯ve been enduring all this to avoid upsetting him.¡±
She stood before Kristopher, her eyes cold as she looked down at him seated in his chair. ¡°Kristopher, do you really think I can keep putting up with your humiliations just because I¡¯m usually calm? We¡¯ve been married for three years. You don¡¯t even know I¡¯m sick. You¡¯ve ignored my pregnancy. When I miscarried and ended up in the hospital, you were off fetching Miss Miller from the airport. After I lost our baby, while I was trying to recover, you ignored mepletely and took Miss Miller to a high-society event in the next city. And at your Grandpa¡¯s birthday, you had the nerve to bring her and unt her in your arms right in front of everyone. Do you actually see me as your wife?¡±
Belinda had practiced these words over and over with Madisyn before today.
She had thought she could deliver them without any emotion. Yet, standing before Kristopher, revealing these deep wounds, her heart throbbed painfully.
Her heartache triggered waves of nausea.
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Despite having taken a hefty dose of painkillers before arriving, a sharp pain surged through her body, forcing her hands to clench into fists. Yet, no one saw this.
A murmur swept through the room. Everyone stared at Belinda in astonishment, struggling to reconcile what they were seeing and hearing.
The Belinda everyone knew was the epitome ofposure and restraint.
Upholding her role as Mrs. Cox and the reputation of the Cox family, Belinda maintained a gentle and dignified demeanor whenever she felt slighted.
Never had she engaged in public arguments or uttered such words! Anger clouded Kristopher¡¯s mind, yet as he gazed into her firm, unapologetic eyes, his heart strangely wavered.
Typically cold and distant, Kristopher¡¯s mere nce could chill the bone. But confronted with Belinda¡¯s usations, he found himself speechless.
¡°Belinda, you¡¯ve got it all wrong about me and Kristopher¡¡±
With Kristopher mute, Cathy, biting her lip, positioned her slender frame between the two, gently attempting to rify. ¡°Kristopher was unaware of your miscarriage when he picked me up¡ The incident at the Rozand party was all a misunderstanding¡ I bumped into him unexpectedly¡¡±
¡°And what about just now?¡± Belinda, not in the mood to argue, cut Cathy off coldly. ¡°When Kristopher abandoned Anthony and me to leap from the stage and embrace you, was that also a misunderstanding or just coincidence?¡±
Cathy bit her lip, wiping away tears, and remained silent.
¡°What¡¯s going on, Belinda?¡±
Kristopher rose, drawing Cathy close and shielding her. ¡°She¡¯s unwell and in pain. Am I not allowed to show concern?¡±
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Chapter 34
?Chapter 34:
Belinda¡¯s fingernails were pressed deep into her palms.
How ironic.
Suffering from advanced stomach cancer, Belinda spent many nights writhing in agony.
Yet Kristopher, her husband, seemed oblivious, utterly indifferent to her pain.
Meanwhile, Cathy, who had returned just two weeks prior,ined of a stomachache, and suddenly, Kristopher was all concern. Belinda¡¯s long-endured suffering turned into a cruel joke. It dawned on her that he was capable of caring. It was just that she wasn¡¯t worth his care at all.
With this realization, she inhaled sharply and said, ¡°Fine, care about her. I don¡¯t want any part of it.¡±
She mmed a divorce agreement onto the table and dered, ¡°Kristopher, we are done!¡±
As the crowd gasped in shock, she seized a microphone and announced, ¡°Sorry to interrupt your evening, everyone. Since all the Cox family and friends are here, I have an important announcement. I¡¯m divorcing Kristopher Cox and ending our three-year marriage. He¡¯s free now, and so is the position next to him.¡±
She paused, a sly smile crossing her face, then added with a hint of spite, ¡°And to anydy who¡¯s had her eye on Mr. Cox but didn¡¯t want to be a home wrecker, feel free to make your move. The role of Mrs. Cox is up for grabs to anyone who feels she¡¯s qualified for it.¡±
As she spoke, Cathy¡¯s face fell from joy to sorrow.
That bitch, Belinda, relentless even in their divorce, couldn¡¯t resist getting in a jab at her.
What did she mean by dies who had her eye on Mr. Cox but didn¡¯t want to be a home wrecker¡±?
g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s©q??o?? is where stories live
Was she implying that Cathy was a home wrecker?
Nearby, Kristopher¡¯s hands were balled into fists, barely containing his rage. His re bore into Belinda, filled with a storm of fury. Initially, she had the audacity to suggest that he was just something to be rented out, and now, she proposed surrendering her title as Mrs. Cox to someone else.
Did she see him as some sort ofmodity?
Their marriage was their business alone. When she first mentioned divorce, he dismissed it as a trivial tantrum and forgave her.
Yet here she was, announcing their separation before a crowd of Cox family friends and rtives, exposing his affair with Cathy. What was her motive?
Finally, Belinda inhaled deeply, her voice steady. ¡°From now on, I am no longer Kristopher¡¯s wife, no longer Mrs. Cox. I refuse to endure any more insults from the Cox family.¡±
Her deration was a clear jab at Rosie and Maggie.
Maggie, already bitter towards Belinda over the dispute involving fifteen thousand dors, could not hide her disdain. With a sneer, she retorted, ¡°Cathy¡¯s back. You knew they¡¯d kick you out eventually, so you decided to ask for the divorce first, didn¡¯t you?¡±
While she spoke, she absentmindedly fiddled with her nails. ¡°You¡¯ve been married to Kristopher for three years, reaping all the benefits of the Cox family¡¯s wealth, and yet, you couldn¡¯t even provide a child for Kristopher. We¡¯ve held our tongues on this matter, and now you have the audacity to use us of bullying you¡¡± Maggie paused for a moment and continued, giving a cold, mockingugh. ¡°It¡¯s no surprise your own child couldn¡¯t endure being with you!¡± Herments became increasingly biting.
¡°Maggie!¡± Kristopher¡¯s voice dropped to a warning whisper, hoping to silence her.
However, Maggie, relishing the opportunity to taunt and degrade Belinda, pressed on.
Ignoring Kristopher¡¯s attempts to intervene, she spat out her next words with even greater spite. ¡°How can you be upset that Kristopher went to help Cathy after your miscarriage? Don¡¯t you realize that in his eyes, you can¡¯t hold a candle to Cathy? You only married him while he was unconscious. Kristopher¡¯s pity is the only reason you weren¡¯t kicked out the moment he regained consciousness. Do you think you¡¯d still be here otherwise? With yourck of background and education, Belinda, you¡¯re hardly worthy to¡ª¡±
p!
Before Maggie could utter another word, Belinda marched up to her and delivered a resounding p across her face!
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Chapter 35
?Chapter 35:
A resounding p echoed throughout the banquet hall, silencing everyone instantly.
All eyes were wide with disbelief, unable toprehend the spectacle they had just witnessed.
This evening had turned into quite the revtion.
Belinda, known for her elegance andposure as Kristopher¡¯s wife, not only voiced herints and dered her intention to divorce, but she also¡ pped Maggie across the face, leaving behind a vivid red mark!
The women who had earlier mingled with Belinda werepletely taken aback.
Could this really be the same Mrs. Cox, who was always the epitome of grace and wore a constant, gentle smile?
Maggie, hand pressed to her stinging cheek, turned to Belinda with eyes brimming with shock. How could she dare p her?
¡°Maggie!¡±
Cathy, jolted from her daze, hurried over, a look of concern etched on her face as she reached for Maggie¡¯s stinging cheek. ¡°Are you alright? Is it very painful?¡±
Maggie, now visibly reacting to the pain, gripped her face tighter, her lip quivering as she fought back tears. ¡°Yes, it hurts! It really hurts! Not even my own parents have ever hit me like this!¡±
As the cherished daughter of the Cox family, Maggie had led a sheltered life, never once having been pped. ¡°It¡¯spletely swollen.¡±
Cathy gingerly touched Maggie¡¯s cheek once more, her toneced with worry. ¡°Do you think it¡¯ll scar?¡±
¡°Bitch!¡±
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Rosie, usually soposed, was standing at a distance when she lost her calm.
She stormed toward Belinda with wild fury, arm raised to strike. ¡°How dare you hit my Maggie? Are you looking for trouble?¡±
Historically, when Rosie became emotional while berating Belinda, she could have resorted to physicality.
Belinda, seeking to maintain family peace, had always silently absorbed these outbursts, acting as if they had never happened. Rosie anticipated the same response this time. That Belinda would just endure. Fresh chapters posted on f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
However, this time was different.
Belinda agilely sidestepped Rosie¡¯s attempted p.
Unbnced, Rosie stumbled and almost crashed into the dining table. If not for Kristopher¡¯s quick reflexes in grabbing her arm, the table could have capsized under her nearly 200-pound frame.
Once steady, Rosie shot Belinda a furious look, her face flushed with rage. ¡°You dare to dodge?¡±
Belinda¡¯s sneer was sharp as she retorted, ¡°I¡¯ve told you, I¡¯m not putting up with this any longer.¡±
Her gaze was cold, cutting deeper than her words.
Kristopher watched, a frown creasing his forehead, feeling an odd twinge in his heart.
It was evident that she meant every word.
She was resolute about divorcing him and severing all connections with the Cox family.
In the bar the other night, she had looked at him with those same eyes.
When his grandfather was present, Kristopher noticed her patience and felt a brief happiness, thinking she could revert to her former self. But he was mistaken¡
She had been suppressing her feelings, waiting for his grandfather to leave before letting them burst forth.
As it turned out, the person she truly cherished in the Cox family wasn¡¯t him, but his grandfather.
¡°Are you going to defy me?¡±
Rosie¡¯s face flushed a deep red with anger. ¡°Kristopher, divorce her immediately! This woman doesn¡¯t deserve to be my daughter-inw. Just seeing her disgusts me!¡±
¡°Alright.¡±
Belinda turned to grab the divorce papers she had previously ced on the table, only to find Cathy examining them.
Rather than tussle with Cathy, she pulled out another set of papers from her bag and mmed them down on the table. ¡°Sign this now!¡± She thrust a pen into Kristopher¡¯s hand. ¡°Mr. Cox, you always do what your mother says, right? Just sign it right now.¡±
With the pen in hand, Kristopher nced at the divorce papers Cathy held, then at the new set on the table, his eyes narrowing.
¡°You intended to divorce me today even before you arrived, didn¡¯t you?¡±
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Chapter 36
?Chapter 36:
Belinda arched an eyebrow. ¡°Is something wrong?¡±
When she assured Kristopher of her attendance at Anthony¡¯s birthday party, she had already sorted everything out.
Anthony, a man held in high esteem, would have his birthday attended by a crowd of friends and rtives from the Cox family. Her agenda was clear: to announce her divorce at this gathering, ensuring Kristopher would sign the divorce papers.
Her days were numbered. She was determined not to prolong this affair any longer.
Yet, she hesitated to spoil what could be Anthony¡¯sst memorable birthday. To prevent any disruptions, she had discreetly mixed sleeping pills into his tea before the celebration began.
Despite her careful nning, the birthday celebration was ultimatelypromised.
¡°Why even bother engaging with her?¡±
Rosie scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain. ¡°She¡¯s got the divorce papers. Just sign them and let¡¯s move on.¡±
As Rosie voiced her impatience, Cathy was already perusing the divorce agreement. ¡°I¡¯ve looked over Belinda¡¯s papers.¡±
¡°And? You think something¡¯s off?¡± Maggie questioned, massaging her sore cheek with frustration.
Cathy shook her head, her voice steady. ¡°There¡¯s nothing underhanded here, but¡¡±
Her manicured finger hovered over a particr use in the document. ¡°Belinda is asking for custody of a ragdoll cat named Fluffy¡¡± Her expression soured as she turned to Kristopher. ¡°Is this the same Fluffy you mentioned to me earlier?¡±
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Kristopher affirmed with a nod. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s the one.¡±
Belinda¡¯s eyebrow lifted in a mix of surprise and irritation. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize Mr. Cox had discussed my cat with Miss Miller.¡±
Facing Cathy, she added coldly, ¡°And what exactly is wrong with me wanting Fluffy?¡±
Kristopher had gifted Belinda a cat named Fluffy on their first wedding anniversary.
She was overjoyed, seeing it as a sign that Kristopher truly cared and their marriage was on the upswing.
However, she eventually uncovered the unsettling truth.
Fluffy was a cat that Maggie had bought on a whim during an overseas trip, paying a hefty sum. Maggie quickly lost interest in Fluffy and nearly abandoned him soon after.
Throughout their three-year marriage, Belinda often found herself alone. On nights tormented by nightmares, it was Fluffy whoforted her, snuggling up beside her.
In the impending divorce, she was willing to give up everything except Fluffy.
Belinda was adamant that after she was gone, Madisyn would keep Fluffy.
She had no faith in the Cox family to care for Fluffy properly.
Maggie, recalling the past, imed, ¡°If I remember correctly, I spent a fortune on that cat. You¡¯re divorcing my brother. Why should you keep something that¡¯s technically mine?¡±
Belinda met Maggie¡¯s gaze with a cold expression. ¡°Yours? Beyond buying her and bringing her back, what care have you ever provided? Your brother gave me your neglected cat, and I¡¯ve nurtured him for over two years. Is it so wrong that I want to keep him?¡±
She didn¡¯t want Kristopher¡¯s money, his car, or his house. She just wanted her Fluffy.
Was this tiny favor too burdensome for the Cox family?
¡°But that cat is mine,¡± Maggie retorted disdainfully. ¡°Remove the use about the cat from the divorce papers.¡± Her eyes narrowing, Maggie continued, ¡°I don¡¯t even like cats, but since I paid for this one, I¡¯ll keep him. After the divorce, I¡¯ll take him back to y with Bane.¡± Newest update provided by f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
Bane was Maggie¡¯s menacing mastiff.
Fluffy was no match for him.
Belinda bit her lip to hold back her pain and met Maggie¡¯s eyes with a defiant gaze. ¡°I thought you¡¯d be thrilled about me divorcing your brother. I¡¯m surprised you¡¯d want me around after that p.¡±
Maggie¡¯s face contorted with fury. ¡°Who said I want you around?¡±
Belinda¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°You know I adore Fluffy, yet you¡¡±
¡°Refuse to let him go with me? Are you trying to use her to prevent the divorce?¡± Maggie¡¯s expression grew even darker.
She narrowed her eyes after a tense pause. ¡°Fine, maybe you think you can use the cat to cling to the marriage. I wanted to use it to retaliate for the p. But now, why should I?¡±
She rose abruptly and advanced toward Belinda. ¡°I¡¯ll just strike back and have my brother throw you out!¡±
¡°This woman has developed quite the temper. It won¡¯t be easy to take her down!¡± Rosie rushed over to her side. ¡°I¡¯m with you!¡±
Belinda stood firm, keeping an eye on the mother and daughter as they approached.
She clenched her teeth, feeling her stomach twist as if gripped by unseen hands.
She was barely able to stand, much less defend herself.
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Chapter 37
?Chapter 37:
¡°Maggie! Mom!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened when he saw Rosie and Maggie advancing on Belinda, and he instinctively stepped in to shield her. At that moment, Cathy clutched her chest and gasped, ¡°Ah!¡±
Kristopher halted his movement and turned towards Cathy, his eyes filled with concern. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±
¡°It¡¯s nothing¡¡± Cathy murmured, herplexion ashen. ¡°Just my stomach acting up again.¡±
While Cathy was speaking, Rosie and Maggie had already reached Belinda.
Rosie held Belinda¡¯s arms behind her back while Maggie lifted her hand and struck Belinda across the face with a resounding p. As the p echoed through the air, Belinda saw that Kristopher, still tending to Cathy, had a look of worry etched on his face.
p!
The pnded sharply, the sound crisp in the tense air. The sting on Belinda¡¯s cheek felt as though her skin was tearing.
Yet, the physical pain paled inparison to the deep, gnawing hurt in her heart. N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on F¦Énd£Îovel
Upon hearing the p, Kristopher stiffened.
¡°Belinda!¡±
He was about to rush to her aid when Cathy intervened, stepping between them. ¡°Maggie, Rosie, stop this! We¡¯re all family here. Can¡¯t we just talk it through?¡±
¡°Cathy, you¡¯re siding with her?¡±
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Maggie¡¯s voice rose, her fury intensifying with each word.
¡°Who does this country bumpkin think she is? Mom, I will keep her still, and you p her!¡±
Rosie nodded and sneered at Belinda. ¡°Bitch, let me show you what a real p feels like! If we go easy on you, you¡¯ll never learn your lesson!¡±
Cathy, tears brimming in her eyes, positioned herself between Belinda and Maggie, reaching out to pull Maggie away from Belinda. ¡°Maggie, let her go! Belinda just had a miscarriage. She¡¯s not well.¡±
Despite her words that seemedced with concern, Belinda caught a glimpse of Cathy actually assisting Maggie in pinning her down. A sneer crossed Belinda¡¯s face, recognizing Cathy¡¯s feignedpassion.
¡°Cathy!¡±
Kristopher furrowed his brow as he approached. ¡°Calm down, you¡¯re unwell. Don¡¯t make the situation worse. All of you¡¡±
He was cut off as Rosie raised her hand, aiming a p at Belinda. Despite the throbbing pain in her abdomen and the sweat soaking her clothes, Belinda¡¯s mind remained sharp.
With all the strength she could muster, she twisted her body away just as Rosie¡¯s hand descended.
This sudden movement yanked both Maggie and Cathy off bnce.
Smack!
The p intended for Belindanded squarely on Cathy¡¯s face instead, leaving a vivid red mark and causing her lip to bleed.
Cathy still gripped Belinda¡¯s arms firmly.
Maggie let out a scream, ¡°Cathy! You¡¯re bleeding!¡±
It all unfolded in an instant.
Kristopher only caught on when he noticed Cathy, blood dripping from her lips as she held onto Belinda.
He dashed forward, pushed Belinda aside, and gathered Cathy into his arms. ¡°Are you okay?¡±
Belinda collided with the table, her upper abdomen mming against the corner.
A wave of pain radiated from her stomach, causing tears to well up in her eyes.
Struggling to keep from vomiting blood, she gripped the table, her vision blurry.
Through her blurred vision, she saw Kristopher cradling Cathy and heard him ask with a softness he had never shown her, ¡°How do you feel? Does your stomach hurt?¡±
It was a gentleness Belinda had never known.
¡°Ugh.¡±
Her emotions overwhelmed her. Clutching the edge of the table, Belinda spat out a mouthful of blood.
The screams around her dwindled to a murmur, and as her vision faded to ck, she caught a fleeting glimpse of Kristopher carrying Cathy off while Darren hurried toward her.
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Chapter 38
?Chapter 38:
Belinda had been unconscious throughout the night.
As dawn broke and she opened her eyes, it felt as if she had narrowly escaped death.
A sensation like a hand clenching her stomach sent waves of cold sweat across her body, draining her of all strength.
¡°Belinda?¡±
Darren, who had been vigntly by her side, promptly hit the call button. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±
Raising her head, her vision blurred by perspiration, Belinda managed to make out the concern etched deeply in Darren¡¯s eyes. ¡°Darren, I¡ I¡¯m okay. How about you?¡±
Her voice was barely a whisper, frail and breathless.
¡°Rx, there¡¯s no need to hurry,¡± Darren advised, holding her hand firmly. ¡°Belinda, does the Cox family realize the extent of your illness?¡±
Trying instinctively to withdraw her hand, Belinda found herself too weak to pull away from his grasp.
Resigning herself, she shook her head with a trace of bitterness. ¡°No, they¡¯re unaware.¡±
Darren¡¯s sigh was gentle, though his expression remained troubled. ¡°Even without knowing about your condition, the Cox family crossed the linest night, especially Kristopher. Last night, my boss insisted I stay and work closely with him for potential future projects, and then I saw¡¡±
He paused, his expression grave as he looked at Belinda. ¡°You were right to divorce him.¡±
Belinda managed a strained smile.
Before she could say more, the door burst open. A female doctor in a white coat entered, her brow furrowed in concern. ¡°Belinda, haven¡¯t I warned you about avoiding stress and physical exertion?¡± she chided. She fixed Belinda with a firm gaze. ¡°What were you up tost night? Your stress levels soared, and your stomach even got hurt. Do you think you have all the time in the world?¡±
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Though the doctor¡¯s tone was stern, Belinda understood her deep concern.
She offered a feeble smile. ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯ll take better care of myself.¡±
¡°Take better care?¡± The doctor¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°If this happens again, I might not be able to help you!¡±
She reiterated her medical advice before snapping her notebook shut. ¡°You¡¯ve opted out of chemotherapy and radiation, which I respect. This text is hosted at f?ndnovel
But you can¡¯t continue to neglect your health.¡±
Belinda nodded weakly. ¡°I get it.¡±
With a heavy sigh, the doctor exited the room.
¡°Belinda,¡± Darren began, his expression clouding over after the doctor departed. ¡°Do you really intend to just sit here and wait for the end?¡±
sping her hands under the nket, Belinda replied, ¡°I¡¯m not waiting for death. I want to make the most of the time I have left.¡± She attempted a weak smile, her face pale. ¡°Cancer treatment is excruciating, drawn-out, and often futile. Rather than squandering money and energy on the faint hope of a cure, I prefer to appreciate the time I still have.¡±
Her eyes fixed on something beyond the sterile white walls. ¡°Three years of marriage have shown me that even the hardest efforts don¡¯t always lead to miracles.¡±
Darren¡¯s gaze was filled with sorrow as he observed her frail form and listened to her raspy voice.
He sighed, sitting down beside her bed and grasping her hand. ¡°Belinda, I know you well enough to understand your decision. I can¡¯t change your mind, but¡¡±
His eyes met hers earnestly. ¡°Allow me to be with you for whatever time remains, will you?¡±
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed, and she attempted to withdraw her hand, but Darren held it firmly. ¡°Belinda, let me be here for you.¡±
¡°Be here for her? What exactly are you suggesting?¡±
The conversation was cut short by a chilling, deep voice from the doorway.
Kristopher strode in, rolling up his white shirt sleeves elegantly with a scornful smirk.
He sat down, regarding Darren with disdain. ¡°Promising to stay by a married woman¡¯s side¡ Mr. Wright, are you trying to disrupt our marriage?¡±
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Chapter 39
?Chapter 39:
Darren¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Mr. Cox, that¡¯s hardly an appropriate way to phrase it.¡±
¡°I¡¯m simply stating facts.¡±
With a sneer, Kristopher nced at Darren¡¯s hand, still entwined with Belinda¡¯s. ¡°You two appear quite intimate.¡±
Upon hearing this, Darren quickly released Belinda¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯re misunderstanding the situation between me and Belinda.¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? Find[F]ovel
Kristopher scoffed, his gaze icy as he stared at Belinda. ¡°So, you¡¯re seeking a divorce because of him, aren¡¯t you?¡±
He had been gued by guilt, believing her desire for a divorce stemmed from his preference for Cathy and her family¡¯s poor treatment of her.
He hadn¡¯t considered she might want it because of Darren!
Belinda, caught off guard, managed a bitter smile. ¡°Darren has nothing to do with this.¡±
Darren scowled. ¡°Kristopher, it was you who was unfaithful, carrying on an affair during your marriage. Don¡¯t try to sully Belinda¡¯s name!¡±
¡°Ever since Cathy returned, you¡¯ve been erratic, terminating your pregnancy, and publicly dering our separation.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed, and he sneered again. ¡°I felt remorse, thinking I had neglected you in favor of Cathy. But now it¡¯s clear you¡¯ve been with Darren all along. This is just a performance to justify our divorce!¡±
Belinda clenched her jaw and gripped the nket tightly, a knot of pain forming in her stomach.
¡°Kristopher!¡±
Darren¡¯s voice carried a mix of warning and distress as he stepped forward, positioning himself between Kristopher and Belinda. He could see the difort etched on Belinda¡¯s face, and it spurred him into action. ¡°Belinda is sick. Watch your mouth!¡±
A flicker of annoyance crossed Kristopher¡¯s features. Observing the worry that shadowed Darren¡¯s expression only fueled his irritation. With a sharp tug at his tie and a scornful twist of his lips, he retorted, ¡°I¡¯ve checked her condition before I came here. It¡¯s merely a stomach upset, hardly a cause for rm.¡±
His smirk widened. ¡°Last night, you saw Cathy¡¯s mouth bleed, so you instantly pretended to vomit blood as well, right? Really, Belinda, your acting has seen some improvement,¡± he mocked, barely concealing his disbelief.
He had almost been convinced.
Belinda felt a fresh pang in her stomach as his words sank in. Fighting back the bitter, metallic taste that threatened to overwhelm her, she managed a strained smile.
She had convinced the doctor to keep her true condition a secret, yet Darren had somehow uncovered the reality.
If only Kristopher showed a sliver of the concern Darren did, perhaps then he would have seen through her facade.
¡°She¡¯s not pretending,¡± Darren insisted, his voice firm and protective. He was seething with anger. ¡°Kristopher, don¡¯t you have any sense of decency? Belinda is actually¡ª¡±
¡°Darren!¡± Belinda interjected sharply, cutting him off before he could disclose her illness.
Kristopher didn¡¯t care about her condition at all, and she certainly didn¡¯t want his pity.
Their marriage was a relic of the past. She yearned only for a divorce, to reim her freedom before her life ended, vowing never to be entwined with him again.
Darren stopped mid-sentence, realizing it was best not to go on.
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed, a cold intensity in his gaze.
The moment Belinda interrupted, Darren fell into a troubled silence. They held secrets between them, their deep familiarity echoing that of a long-married couple.
Adjusting his tie, Kristopher felt a constriction in his chest.
He stood up, looking down at Belinda with a disdainful stare as she leaned weakly against the hospital bed. ¡°You once dered your love for me, swearing that nothing I said could ever drive you away. Now, finding someone new, you scheme to leave me. Do you think you¡¯re the center of the universe? That you can marry and divorce at your whim?¡±
He let out a coldugh. ¡°As long as I don¡¯t divorce you, you will always be a member of the Cox family until death!¡±
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Chapter 40
?Chapter 40:
Kristopher¡¯s remarks instantly drained the color from Belinda¡¯s face and ignited a fierce anger in Darren.
¡°Kristopher, why do you always act like you¡¯re the victim? It was you and Miss Miller who stirred up this mess!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze was icy as he retorted, ¡°The connection between Cathy and me bears no resemnce to the sordid affair you¡¯ve entangled yourself in with Belinda! Cathy and I were always transparent about our actions. But you and Belinda¡¡±
His eyes narrowed. ¡°On the surface, it appears you and Belinda have only met a couple of times recently, but the true nature of your rtionship is known only to you two!¡±
Marc¡¯s findings had shown that Darren and Belinda hadn¡¯t been in touch for years.
This raised the question: how could Darren, who had only recently reconnected with Belinda twice, im to know her better than her own husband did?
Darren was livid.
He clenched his fist and lunged at Kristopher, shouting, ¡°Belinda sacrificed everything for you. She nearly died for you! You can attack me all you want, but how dare you smear her name?¡±
With that, Darren¡¯s fist connected, catching Kristopher unawares and striking him squarely on the left cheek.
Kristopher stumbled backward, regaining his bnce after a few steps. Turning back with a menacing look, he hissed, ¡°You dare strike me?¡±
¡°You mistreat Belinda like that, and hitting you is the least I could do!¡± Darren roared, his anger unabated as he swung his fist again.
This time, Kristopher swiftly sidestepped.
???§ÁE ??P?¦«T¦®? I§ª G¦«?§ª?V¦®??.???
Narrowing his eyes, he shot a piercing nce at Darren and, with a mocking sneer tugging at his lips, snapped, ¡°You¡¯ve got guts!¡± Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, he clenched his fists and countered. Discover more novels at f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?
Coming from a background of wealth, Kristopher had been trained inbat from a young age. Darren, fueled merely by rage, was clearly outmatched.
After several heated exchanges, it was evident Darren was on the losing end, his face already swelling with bruises.
Yet, Kristopher didn¡¯t ease up; his attacks grew increasingly forceful. Despite his injuries, Darren continued to retaliate, driven by sheer adrenaline, seemingly impervious to the pain.
From the sidelines, Belinda¡¯s anxiety mounted. ¡°Kristopher, stop!¡± she cried out.
Her words only intensified Kristopher¡¯s assault.
Biting her lip and summoning her strength, Belinda staggered out of bed. ¡°Stop it!¡± she pleaded.
The confrontation was escting, and Darren was on the brink of serious harm.
The two men, lost in their brawl, failed to notice her.
As Darren braced for another savage strike, Belinda rushed forward, attempting to wedge herself between them. ¡°Talk it out! Don¡¯t¡ª¡±
But before she could finish her plea, Kristopher¡¯s fistnded heavily in her stomach.
The impact struck her tender abdomen.
A wave of darkness enveloped Belinda, her senses blurred, and a bitter taste filled her mouth. ¡°Ugh¡ª!¡±
She clutched her chest, blood spilling from her lips and sshing across Kristopher¡¯s face.
Frozen, Kristopher stood in shock.
¡°Belinda!¡±
With his face marred by bruises, Darren quickly caught her as she fell. Looking up furiously at Kristopher, he eximed, ¡°You can beat me all you want, but Belinda is ill! How could you strike her? What are you waiting for? Get a doctor, now!¡±
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Chapter 41
?Chapter 41:
The chill outside the emergency room was palpable.
Kristopher and Darren positioned themselves at opposite ends of the hallway, arms folded, expressions unreadable.
Periodically, their eyes met, adding to the palpable tension.
A nurse passing by caught the hostile atmosphere and reminded them firmly, ¡°Both of you are adults. Behave ordingly! No fighting in these halls! Your actions have already harmed patients. Another incident, and I¡¯m calling the police.¡±
Both men exhaled sharply and looked away.
Momentster, the ER doors burst open as a doctor stepped out, her expression grave.
Both men moved toward her in unison.
¡°How is she?¡±
¡°How¡¯s Belinda?¡±
The doctor¡¯s voice was cold. ¡°She¡¯s dealing with severe abdominal pain. The blow to her stomach did significant damage. We¡¯ve managed her care, but the pain lingers.¡±
She eyed the two imposing men. ¡°One of you can assist the nurse in moving her to her room.¡±
As she was talking, both men rushed for the ER door.
The doctor quickly stepped in their path, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Just one of you may enter.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll go,¡± Darren dered firmly. ¡°I¡¯ve been taking care of her since she was admitted yesterday.¡±
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The doctor gave a nod, starting to lower her arm to allow him passage, when Kristopher intervened, his expression tense. ¡°I¡¯m Belinda¡¯s husband. I should go in.¡±
¡°You¡¯re her husband?¡± The doctor eyed him sharply, a trace of disbelief in her tone. ¡°Interesting. It¡¯s quite rare to see you here.¡±
Belinda had been battling stomach cancer for several months, yet today marked the first time her doctor had witnessed her husband at the hospital.
Kristopher bristled at the doctor¡¯s tone, which dripped with sarcasm. ¡°I¡¯m busy. It¡¯s not possible for me to be here every time she has some ailments,¡± he snapped.
¡°Ailments?¡± the doctor replied with a scoff. ¡°It seems you hardly know your wife.¡± With a resigned gesture, she dropped her arm. ¡°Very well, go ahead.¡± For more chapters visit FindN()vel
Kristopher hurried into the ER where Belinda was lying on the bed, herplexion deathly pale.
They had been together for three years, but he had never seen her this vulnerable.
The realization that his own actions had contributed to her condition filled him with remorse. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I never meant to hurt you¡¡±
¡°It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Belinda said, her voice calm, a soft smile ying on her lips. ¡°I know you didn¡¯t mean it.¡±
She had loved him deeply for so long that she could read him like an open book.
He didn¡¯t return her love, but he wouldn¡¯t intentionally harm her.
Her serenity pierced Kristopher¡¯s heart.
He sighed and, with the nurse¡¯s assistance, pushed her gurney out of the emergency room.
¡°How are you feeling, Belinda?¡± Darren approached them swiftly, his face lined with worry. ¡°Is your stomach still hurting? It¡¯s my fault. I should have seen that he wouldn¡¯t appreciate you. I didn¡¯t protect you well enough.¡±
Darren shot a pointed look at Kristopher.
¡°What are you implying?¡± Kristopher asked, his brow furrowing. ¡°It was just an ident when I bumped into her. Don¡¯t cause more drama.¡±
¡°Cause drama? Or are you just looking for another way to mistreat Belinda?¡± Darren stood his ground, anger ring. ¡°The Cox family has a history of pushing her around! I¡¯ve seen it with my own eyes!¡±
¡°You¡¡±
¡°Darren¡¡±
As tensions between the men threatened to boil over again, Belinda weakly lifted her head to look at Darren. ¡°You¡¯re hurt as well. Go tend to your injuries. I¡¯ll be okay here by myself. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±
Darren¡¯s face tightened, and he opened his mouth to talk, but he stopped when he caught Belinda¡¯s earnest look.
He exhaled deeply after a pause. ¡°Belinda, I¡¯m leaving for your sake. Take care of yourself, and let me know if you need anything.¡±
He then cast a sharp nce at Kristopher. ¡°If you harm her again, I won¡¯t let it slide!¡±
With those words, Darren walked away.
¡°He made the right decision,¡± Kristopher muttered as he maneuvered Belinda¡¯s bed toward the ward, his eyes fixed on Darren¡¯s fading silhouette. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t stepped in, I wouldn¡¯t have spared him.¡±
Belinda closed her eyes, drained. ¡°I let him leave because I know you¡¯re too stubborn to back down. That¡¯s all.¡±
Kristopher abruptly stopped pushing the gurney, a scowl forming on his face. ¡°So, you¡¯re concerned about him, protecting him?¡±
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Chapter 42
?Chapter 42:
Belinda shut her eyes, offering no response to Kristopher¡¯s probing question.
Shortly after, Kristopher and a nurse escorted her back to her room. The nurse quickly reviewed the essential precautions before she exited, closing the door with a soft click.
Now alone with Kristopher, Belinda watched as he moved to stand beside her bed, his gaze drifting to the medications cluttering her nightstand. He picked up a box, his tone t as he asked, ¡°What¡¯s this condition that has you coughing up blood so frequently?¡±
¡°It¡¯s just a stomach problem,¡± Belinda responded, swiftly taking the box from him and cing it back. ¡°An old issue that¡¯s red up recently,¡± she added, not wanting to arouse his suspicion. ¡°Nothing serious. I should be better in a few days. Sometimes certain foods just set it off.¡±
¡°Just a regr stomach problem?¡± Kristopher looked at her skeptically, a hint of mockery in his voice. ¡°And your gums bleed too?¡±
Belinda grimaced, nodding reluctantly. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve had some mouth ulcerstely. They bleed when I brush my teeth.¡±
¡°So, the blood you vomited yesterday came from your gums, not your stomach, right?¡± Kristopher challenged, his skepticism apparent. ¡°You im it¡¯s just a stomach problem, yet you¡¯re constantly spitting up blood. That doesn¡¯t sound like something trivial.¡±
Caught off guard by his implication, Belinda paused, the weight of his words slowly sinking in.
She offered a smile tinged with bitterness and sorrow. ¡°Yes, you caught me, didn¡¯t you?¡±
His response came with a quiet sigh of relief, his eyes glinting with amusement. ¡°You know your little schemes won¡¯t work on me.¡± Three years prior, during his time in aa, she had cared for him tirelessly, bathing him despite his considerable height over her. Though he was unable to talk or move, he was acutely aware of her constant presence and the soothing murmur of her voice.
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She possessed a vitality and energy unmatched by any woman he had encountered.
Thus, when she coughed up blood, he was certain she was faking it. Just then, Kristopher¡¯s phone broke the silence.
Anthony was on the line.
He pulled out his phone, hesitated at the sight of ¡°Grandpa¡± disyed on the screen, and after a lengthy pause, answered.
¡°Why did it take you so long to answer?¡± Anthony¡¯s voice, filled with irritation, thundered through the phone the moment the connection was made. ¡°Where are you right now?¡±
Taking a moment, Kristopher responded softly, ¡°I¡¯m at the hospital with Belinda.¡±
At the mention of Belinda, Anthony¡¯s tone immediately mellowed. ¡°How is she? You¡¯d better hope she¡¯s alright!¡±
¡°She¡¯s okay,¡± Kristopher replied, giving Belinda a nonchnt nce and sighing lightly. ¡°It¡¯s just a minor stomach problem, nothing to worry about.¡±
¡°Why was she coughing up blood then? Last night, I heard she coughed up a whole lot!¡±
¡°It was just her gums bleeding,¡± Kristopher replied, massaging his forehead with a little impatience. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. She¡¯s perfectly healthy.¡±
¡°Perfectly healthy, you say?¡± Anthony scoffed. ¡°You don¡¯t seem to care about her at all! She has vomited blood, yet you say she¡¯s well?¡± Kristopher gave a faint smile. ¡°I just don¡¯t want you to be too worried. In fact, she is really okay and doesn¡¯t have any serious illness.¡±
¡°If she¡¯s really okay, arrange for someone to keep herpany ande home. I¡¯m clued in about everything that happenedst night,¡± Anthony said with a heavy sigh. ¡°You have thirty minutes to get here and sort this out.¡± With that, Anthony ended the call.
Kristopher¡¯s expression turned sour, and he red at Belinda. ¡°Did you hear that? Your actions have caused all this trouble. You¡¯reing with me to sort things out.¡±
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Chapter 43
?Chapter 43:
Belinda nodded, doing her best to suppress her difort. ¡°Okay.¡± The night before, she had drugged Anthony, but her intentions were simply to shield the old man¡¯s mood, not wanting her argument with other Cox family members to ruin his good spirits. She had never meant to conceal the divorce indefinitely.
After all, secrets like these don¡¯t stay buried for long.
Now that Anthony was aware, she had to discuss the divorce with him directly. He was, after all, the only family member who truly cared for her.
Kristopher¡¯s expression hardened as he adjusted his suit sleeves and said in a frosty tone, ¡°Then stop feigning illness. Get out of bed ande with me.¡±
Belinda managed a weak, forced smile. ¡°Alright.¡± With considerable effort, she rose from the bed.
Her n was to freshen up and slip into the dress she had worn the previous night.
However, when she retrieved the dress from the nurse¡¯s station, she discovered it was marred with bloodstains.
With no alternatives, she returned to her room in her striped hospital gown and approached Kristopher. ¡°Could you apany me to buy some clothes?¡±
All her belongings were still at Madisyn¡¯s house in Nawrin, far from both the hospital and the Cox family estate. It made sense to purchase new attire at a nearby mall.
Kristopher was listening to Cathy¡¯s voice message on his phone. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯m really okay. Please, don¡¯t worry about it too much. I¡¯m not fragile,¡± Cathy¡¯s voice assured him through the speaker.
Hearing Belinda, Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened. Instead of replying to her, who was standing right in front of him, he chose to respond to Cathy first. ¡°Send me the hospital¡¯s diagnostic report. I¡¯ll be convinced you¡¯re okay only if the doctor confirms it.¡±
Belinda couldn¡¯t help but see the irony in his reaction.
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In the past, whenever she was ill or hurt, Kristopher would dismiss her, convinced she was exaggerating.
She had once thought he simply didn¡¯t understand how to show care. Yet now, here he was, consumed with worry for Cathy, demanding a medical report to confirm her well-being.
It wasn¡¯t ack of empathy. He simply hadn¡¯t cared for her.
¡°Alright, I¡¯ll get the report from the doctorter and send you a picture,¡± Cathy¡¯s cheerful voice floated from the phone.
Kristopher¡¯s face softened at her words, and he replied, ¡°Good girl.¡± He then turned to Belinda with a cold gaze. ¡°New clothes? What happened to the ones you worest night?¡±
¡°They got blood on them. I can¡¯t wear those anymore,¡± Belinda exined.
¡°A little blood, and they¡¯re no good to wear?¡± Kristopher pocketed his phone and strode towards the door, his sneer cutting. ¡°Were you always this picky back in the countryside?¡±
He had left with Cathy the previous night just as she started coughing up blood, missing the severity of the situation.
To him, it was merely a case of bleeding gums. How serious could it really be?
Serious enough to spoil her clothes?
The scorn in his gaze and tone left Belinda feeling uneasy.
Yet, she chose not to justify herself and responded coldly, ¡°Bloodstained is bloodstained, no matter the amount. If you¡¯re reluctant to apany me to the mall, I might as well wear the stained dress. What do you think Anthony will do? Reprimand me for my dirty attire or chastise you?¡±
Kristopher stopped in his tracks, his brow furrowing in annoyance, before stepping into the elevator. ¡°There¡¯s a mall close by.¡±
At the mall, Belinda darted into a clothing store, picked out two presentable outfits, and headed for the fitting rooms.
Emergingter, she found Kristopher gone.
Assuming Anthony had called him, she figured Kristopher had returned to the car to wait and quickly made her way outside with the hospital gown in hand.
However, she was taken aback when passing by a jewelry store in the shopping mall. She spotted Kristopher standing at the counter. She could just make out the saleswoman¡¯s enthusiastic pitch. ¡°Sir, if you¡¯re thinking of proposing to that special someone, this ring would be ideal.¡±
Belinda paused briefly, then approached.
Kristopher was absorbed in examining a pair of rings on the counter and didn¡¯t notice her approach.
She took a quick look at the rings¡ªattractive, though slightly gaudy, and clearly suited for Cathy.
¡°Please, wrap these up,¡± she said to the saleswoman, her smile broadening. ¡°I¡¯ll take them.¡±
Kristopher snapped back to reality, his brow furrowing.
¡°What are you doing?¡±
¡°You¡¯re nning to propose to Miss Miller, right? These rings seem just right.¡± Belinda¡¯s smile was faint. ¡°Consider them a divorce present from me.¡±
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Chapter 44
?Chapter 44:
¡°What are you even talking about?¡± Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened with irritation. ¡°When did I ever mention that I nned to propose to Cathy?¡±
Recently, the Cox Group had expanded into the jewelry business, and out of boredom, Kristopher had wandered into a jewelry store. He never anticipated that Belinda would misinterpret his actions so drastically.
With a smirk, Belinda handed her bank card to the saleswoman. ¡°You were looking at engagement rings. Are you nning to buy one for Miss Miller? Don¡¯t tell me it¡¯s for me. In our three years of marriage, every gift for me was bought by Marc. And now, just as we¡¯re about to divorce, you suddenly show such interest that you even pick up gifts for me in person?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened, yet he remained silent.
The saleswoman, handling Belinda¡¯s card, shifted ufortably between the quarreling couple. ¡°Sir, ma¡¯am, about this pair of rings¡¡±
¡°Just sell them to her if she wants them,¡± Kristopher snapped, turning on his heel and striding away.
The saleswoman was left even more bewildered, watching him depart. Belinda smiled, her eyes settling on a delicate diamond ring at the counter. ¡°Please wrap that one along with the pair of engagement rings.¡±
Minutester, Belinda exited the mall with two bags from the jewelry store and climbed into her car.
¡°Here,¡± she said, handing Kristopher the bag containing the rings. ¡°So, when do you n to propose to Miss Miller?¡±
Kristopher red at her, his eyes cold. ¡°What concern is it of yours?¡±
¡°It certainly is my concern,¡± Belinda retorted, tossing her hair back with a yfulugh. ¡°We need to finalize our divorce before you even think about proposing.¡±
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¡°There¡¯s no rush.¡±
¡°You might not be in a rush, but what about Miss Miller? Is she waiting patiently?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyebrow arched, his expression turning scornful. ¡°If you¡¯re so eager, why don¡¯t you propose to her yourself?¡± Her urgency to dissolve their marriage was palpable.
The more desperate she seemed to sever ties with him and start anew with Darren, the more he resisted granting her desire.
Belinda rolled her eyes and turned to gaze out the window. ¡°I¡¯ve already bought your engagement rings, and that¡¯s the extent of my involvement. Don¡¯t expect me to propose on your behalf!¡± Content originallyes from fin?novel
She was determined to escape this doomed marriage before she died. She had her pride.
The car sped down the road.
Two blocks from the Cox family estate, Belinda retrieved apact mirror from her bag and began touching up her makeup. She aimed to look her best for Anthony. If the divorce proceedings went smoothly, she would never have to see Kristopher again. She intended to make a positive impression on Anthony.
As he reclined in the leather seat, Kristopher observed Belinda adjusting her makeup in the mirror, his thoughts drifting.
When he had first met her three years ago, Belinda had barely known how to use makeup. At that time, the Cox Group was undergoing rapid expansion, and his schedule was so hectic that he could only manage daily phone calls to inquire about his grandfather¡¯s health.
For months, his grandfather had consistently sung Belinda¡¯s praises, noting how attentively she cared for him at the nursing home.
Eventually, they met.
It was a sunny day when she entered, wearing a sharp blue nurse¡¯s uniform and carrying a bouquet of carnations, her smile bright as she greeted, ¡°Anthony, I¡¯m here!¡±
Back then, Belinda exuded an air of energy and liveliness.
Now, however¡
The woman before him had the same features as three years ago, yet she had be so thin that her cheeks were sunken, lending her a pale and weary appearance.
Upon seeing her condition, Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed, and he blurted out, almost without thinking, ¡°You need to eat more. You¡¯re too thin.¡±
Belinda¡¯s hand paused in the air.
After a brief pause, she turned to face him, her expression tinged with sarcasm. ¡°Why this sudden concern for me? Do you even care whether I look good or not?¡±
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Chapter 45
?Chapter 45:
Kristopher frowned, his gaze shifting to the window as he remained silent.
Belinda wasn¡¯t surprised by his reaction. She turned away, continuing to touch up her makeup.
Soon, the car pulled up outside the Cox family estate.
Belinda exited first and started towards the house.
After a moment, Kristopher caught up with her.
¡°Why the hurry?¡± he asked, his voice cold. He grasped Belinda¡¯s hand and hastened her steps toward the house.
Belinda instinctively tried to pull away. ¡°Do we really need to do this?¡± Previously, she had suggested they hold hands when visiting the estate to keep Anthony from suspecting trouble in their rtionship.
It was their only disy of affection outside their bedroom.
But now, with their strained rtionship no secret and Anthony already informed, hand-holding felt pointless.
The harder she tried to free her hand, the tighter Kristopher¡¯s grip became.
He didn¡¯t stop walking as he said, ¡°Until we¡¯re divorced, you¡¯re still my wife.¡± He quirked an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with holding my wife¡¯s hand?¡±
Belinda rolled her eyes in exasperation.
He was beingpletely absurd.
Before, when she wanted to hold his hand, he always looked at her with contempt, as though she was taking advantage of him.
Now, as they teetered on the edge of divorce, he suddenly felt the urge to grasp her hand?
She resisted his grip a moment longer before her strength waned, and she relented with a sigh.
Together, they walked into the house, passing through a corridor adorned with flowers, until they reached the main building.
Upon entering the living room, Belinda noticed it wasn¡¯t just Anthony who was there to meet them.
Anthony was seated prominently at the head of the room, nked on his left by Carol and Helen, and on his right by Rosie and Maggie. Beside Maggie sat Cathy, d in a hospital gown, her face obscured by bandages.
Cathy dabbed at her eyes with a tissue as they entered. ¡°Anthony, I know I¡¯m not your favorite, but I was at your birthday celebrationst night. I was assaulted at your own party¡ you can¡¯t just overlook that¡¡±
¡°Yes, Grandpa.¡± Maggie interjected, pulling Cathy into a protective embrace. ¡°Cathy is a renowned actress. Her appearance is crucial to her career. With her face injured like this, she¡¯ll be out of work for a while. It¡¯s a serious setback for her!¡±
Rosie chimed in, ¡°This is all Belinda¡¯s fault!¡±
As Belinda listened to the three women ming her, it dawned on her that they hade to bring their grievances to Anthony about the previous evening¡¯s events.
Yet, what baffled her most was the fact that it was Maggie who had pped Cathy. How could this possibly be pinned on her?
¡°Grandpa.¡± Kristopher interjected, his brow furrowed in concern, still clutching Belinda¡¯s hand.
His voice cast a silence over the room, drawing everyone¡¯s eyes to them.
When Cathy caught sight of Kristopher holding Belinda¡¯s hand, a shadow of jealousy crossed her features.
¡°You two seem quite close,¡± Anthony observed with a smile, nodding towards their joined hands. ¡°Considering the rumors fromst night, I was under the impression you were on the brink of divorce!¡±
At Anthony¡¯s words, Belinda¡¯s expression tightened, and she attempted to withdraw her hand from Kristopher¡¯s firm grasp.
¡°Anthony, you¡¯ve got it all wrong. We¡¡±
¡°We find that our bond is stronger than ever.¡± Kristopher cut in, his grip on her hand growing firmer. ¡°Belinda was just a bit upset yesterday, and that¡¯s why she said what she did.¡±
Holding her hand even tighter, he dered resolutely, ¡°I am not going to divorce her.¡±
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. Fresh chapters posted on f?ndnovel
Chapter 46
?Chapter 46:
The living room fell into a brief, tense silence.
All eyes turned to Kristopher, except for Belinda¡¯s. This content belongs to fin?novel
From where Cathy sat, the seriousness and resolve in Kristopher¡¯s eyes were unmistakable. It was clear he meant every word.
Cathy¡¯s expression darkened as she bit her lip and nervously wrung her hands, her gaze shifting resentfully towards Belinda.
Feeling the gravity in her brother¡¯s voice, Maggie furrowed her brow in confusion. ¡°Kristopher, what are you getting at? Belinda has already filed for divorce. Why do you suddenly object?¡±
¡°Didn¡¯t you hear?¡± Anthony interjected sharply, his tone firm. ¡°Kristopher ims Belinda was just upset!¡± Hismand over the room was evident as he dered, ¡°This matter is none of your concern!¡±
He emphasized each word with a piercing look toward Cathy.
Cathy¡¯splexion grew even paler.
¡°You might be onto something, Dad,¡± Carol chimed in, adept at gauging the mood. She cast a knowing look from Anthony to Belinda and Kristopher, her smile reassuring. ¡°Kristopher and Belinda, three years into marriage. I¡¯ve witnessed how strong their bond is. They¡¯ve been inseparable since they arrived, hand in hand. Does that really seem like a couple ready to part ways?¡±
Her observation seemed to lighten the mood, prompting a heartyugh from Anthony, who affectionately stroked his beard.
¡°Seriously! What couple on the brink of divorce still holds hands like that?¡±
Belinda felt Kristopher¡¯s grip tighten, her fingers protesting the pressure.
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¡°But¡¡± Cathy interjected softly. ¡°Last night, Belinda announced she was divorcing Kristopher. Everyone heard it.¡± She paused, biting her lip. ¡°I haven¡¯t known Belinda long, but she strikes me as rational, kind, and gentle. Yet,st night¡ she boldly dered her intention to divorce, seemingly careless about her own and the Cox family¡¯s reputations. She even shed with Rosie and Maggie¡¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes, wide and innocent, fixed on Belinda in bewilderment. ¡°Belinda, were you just upset at Kristopher?¡±
Belinda arched an eyebrow, but before she could reply, Rosie interjected with a scoff. ¡°Upset? In all my years, I¡¯ve never seen ady of Nawrin¡¯s high society throw such a fit, demanding a divorce and striking her inws in the presence of all their friends and family.¡± Rosie¡¯s temper red. ¡°For three years, she¡¯s beenuded as poised, gentle, and graceful, the ideal daughter-inw. But her actionsst night were nothing short of irresponsible! She didn¡¯t just announce a divorce. She hit me and Maggie. She no longer belongs in the Cox family.¡± Her eyes narrowed sharply. ¡°Divorce is inevitable now! She must answer for her actionsst night.¡±
Belinda couldn¡¯t suppress a chuckle at Rosie¡¯s outraged performance. Seizing a moment when Kristopher was momentarily distracted, she deftly slipped her hand from his.
¡°ying the victim, are we?¡± she remarked coldly, shooting a frosty nce at Rosie while crossing her arms. ¡°Yes, I pped Maggiest night, but I neverid a hand on you. Have you so conveniently forgotten how you and your daughter pinned me down and pped me?¡±
Rosie¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I¡¯m your mother-inw, and Maggie is your sister-inw. It¡¯s our duty to correct you when necessary. Don¡¯t you think so?¡±
Ever since Belinda married into the Cox family, this had been Rosie¡¯s prevailing attitude.
For three years, Belinda had silently borne this treatment.
Belinda chuckled bitterly. ¡°Oh, so it¡¯s your right to hit me, but if I dare retaliate, you runining to Anthony?¡±
Previously, she had always believed in maintaining peace, choosing to swallow her grievances rather than confront them directly.
However, she hade to realize that her tolerance had not only failed to garner respect but had also led them to treat her as if she were inherently inferior.
¡°What is happening here?¡± The sudden roar of Anthony¡¯s voice as he mmed the table made everyone turn. His eyes zed as he confronted Rosie and Maggie. ¡°Did either of you hit Belindast night?¡± Caught off guard, Rosie¡¯s face nched, and she found herself without words.
Maggie merely frowned, choosing to remain silent.
Anthony then turned his wrath towards Kristopher. ¡°And you! Did you just stand there and watch as your mother and sister abused Belinda?¡±
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Chapter 47
?Chapter 47:
¡°Anthony, please, don¡¯t be too hard on Kristopher,¡± Belinda urged, stealing a nce at Kristopher¡¯s somber expression. Her lips twitched into a faint smile. ¡°He wasn¡¯t just standing by; he was actively involved.¡±
Anthony¡¯s expression softened slightly, though suspicion still clouded his gaze. ¡°He was helping you?¡±
¡°He actually pushed me,¡± Belinda chuckled softly. ¡°That push sent me crashing into the corner of the table, whichnded me in the hospitalter.¡±
At Belinda¡¯s admission, Anthony, in a fit of rage, hurled a teacup onto the floor, right by Kristopher¡¯s feet. Tea sshed across the floor, and porcin shards scattered everywhere.
Gripping his chest, Anthony¡¯s eyes widened with fury. ¡°Belinda is your wife! And here you are, letting them torment her! Where¡¯s your conscience? When you were bedridden and unresponsive, Belinda devoted herself to your care. Have you forgotten all her sacrifices? You ungrateful brat!¡±
Despite the severity of Anthony¡¯s reprimand, Kristopher remained stoic, unaffected. He turned his head, brow furrowed, and gazed at Belinda.
¡°Wasn¡¯tst night¡¯s trouble enough for you? Why did you have to spin tales in front of Grandpa?¡± he asked.
The previous evening, he had witnessed the quarrel and Cathy¡¯s injury, which had led him to impulsively step in and pull her away. Unexpectedly, Belinda had seemed fragile, toppling over and striking the edge of the table.
¡°I wasn¡¯t making up stories,¡± Belinda asserted, inhaling deeply. She raised her eyes to meet Anthony¡¯s, who sat at the head of the table. Her tone was grave.
¡°Anthony, I know you favor me and oppose my divorce from Kristopher because you believe it¡¯s for my own good. But you¡¯re aware of the true nature of our rtionship. From the start, my hopes for this marriage were unrequited. Kristopher has never had feelings for me. And now¡¡±
Her gaze briefly flickered to Cathy before returning to Anthony. With a serious demeanor, she continued, ¡°Now that Miss Miller is back, it¡¯s clear to me. Kristopher isn¡¯t incapable of love. He¡¯s capable of loving and protecting a woman. It¡¯s just that he never directed such affection towards me.¡±
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She took a deep, cleansing breath and continued, ¡°Anthony, I¡¯ve decided to divorce Kristopher and put an end to this profoundly broken marriage. I seek your blessing and support.¡±
Anthony¡¯s face, flushed with fury, suddenly drained of color. Clutching his chest, he instinctively stepped back. ¡°Belinda, you¡¡± he gasped.
¡°Grandpa!¡± Kristopher called out urgently, spotting Anthony teetering on the edge of copse. He quickly moved to steady him. ¡°Stanley, the medication, now!¡±
Stanley dashed over from across the room, pulling several pills from a small bottle he always carried, quickly administering them to Anthony. ¡°What happened? Why did Anthony suddenly get a heart attack?¡± he asked, bewildered.
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed deeply, his gaze turning icy as it locked onto Belinda, who stood some distance away. His voice was sharp with reproach. ¡°I¡¯ve told you before, don¡¯t speak carelessly! You know these words are too much for Grandpa. Did you mean to aggravate him to this extent? He just celebrated his birthday!¡±
¡°Exactly,¡± Maggie chimed in, her tone dripping with disdain. ¡°Grandpa has always doted on her, but she only thinks of herself,pletely disregarding his health! Do you even deserve the love and care Grandpa has shown you?¡± Latest content published on find?novel
For a moment, silence enveloped Belinda. She managed a strained smile. ¡°I¡ I don¡¯t deserve it,¡± she admitted, her voice barely a whisper. With a heavy sigh, she retreated a few steps and then knelt solemnly in the middle of the living room.
¡°Anthony.¡±
She bowed three times, her head low in respect. ¡°I will never forget the kindness you¡¯ve shown me. Though I may not continue as part of your family in this life, I promise to repay your kindness in the next.¡± Rising, she faced the elderly man seated at the head of the room. ¡°Kristopher doesn¡¯t love me. His affection for Miss Miller is sshed across every newspaper. I have my pride, and I cannot stand idly by while my husband is involved with another woman. Life is fleeting, and I¡¯ve already spent too many years on Kristopher. I refuse to waste any more.¡±
Her deration hung heavy in the air, a silent admission of the little time she had left. She had less than three months. She yearned to live those days for herself, to embrace life fully and freely.
Anthony watched Belinda on the floor, his agitation mounting with each passing second.
Stanley, jittery and anxious, fumbled with a bottle of pills, his intention clear: to calm the old man.
Kristopher stormed over, yanking Belinda to her feet. ¡°Do you really want to upset Grandpa to the point of death? He just celebrated his birthday. Where is your heart?¡±
Belinda met his gaze with icy detachment. ¡°It¡¯s exactly because Grandpa just celebrated his birthday that I chose to tell him now.¡± She wrenched herself free from Kristopher¡¯s grasp, strode over to Anthony, seized the pills from Stanley¡¯s hand, and, without hesitation, popped two into her mouth. As she chewed and swallowed, every eye in the room widened in shock.
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Chapter 48
?Chapter 48:
¡°It¡¯s vored with fruit. This batch contains vitamin B,¡± Belinda remarked, smirking as she swallowed the pills. ¡°Anthony, these pills seemrger than thest batch and don¡¯t look like heart-saving pills, don¡¯t you think?¡±
Anthony, who had been wrestling with his ¡°heart-saving pills,¡± paused mid-swig. The other members of the Cox family in the room were visibly shocked. Belinda continued with a smirk, ¡°Anthony, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t care about you. Quite the opposite, I care about you more than anyone else here. That¡¯s why I went to the hospital to get copies of all your medical records and even spoke to several experts at the medical school. Their conclusion was¡¡±
She paused dramatically, locking eyes with him. ¡°You¡¯re in very good health.¡±
Anthony¡¯s face flushed, but this time it was from embarrassment, not anger.
¡°Anthony, if you¡¯re not ill, you should stop pretending to be and stop using it as a way to keep me here,¡± she said, taking a deep breath and fixing a serious gaze on him. ¡°I¡¯m not throwing a fit, nor am I being hasty. After a lot of thought, I¡¯ve decided it¡¯s time to let go and move on.¡±
Anthony had no reason to keep Belinda around any longer. He closed his eyes in defeat and sighed deeply. ¡°You¡¡±
This morning, Stanley had ryed to him that Belinda had publicly dered her intent to divorce the night before. It was clear to him then that she had firmly made up her mind. Once Belinda decided on something, no one could sway her. She had been this resolute when she married Kristopher three years ago, and it seemed nothing had changed.
After a pause, Anthony looked up again. ¡°Belinda, I truly care for you. Perhaps you and Kristopher simply weren¡¯t meant tost; he missed his chance.¡± As he spoke, emotion overwhelmed him, and he dabbed at his eyes with a tissue. ¡°Belinda, I had hoped you would be there for me in myter years¡¡±
Belinda¡¯s eyes welled up with tears as well. Little did Anthony know, even if she hadn¡¯t decided to leave Kristopher, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to care for him in hister years¡
Afterposing himself, Anthony fixed a stern gaze on Kristopher. ¡°You¡¯re to me. If she wants this divorce, then make the arrangements as she requested, and let her go.¡±
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¡°Let¡¯s do it today,¡± Belinda said, taking a deep breath. Her sadness was momentarily pushed aside as she forced a smile. She wanted to seize this moment. If they waited too long, Kristopher might waver and backtrack on his decision. Time wasn¡¯t on her side, and she didn¡¯t want to waste what little she had left waiting for him.
¡°Belinda and Kristopher are getting divorced today?¡± Cathy¡¯s voice quivered with barely contained excitement. ¡°Then I¡¡± But realizing her enthusiasm was too evident, she quickly dropped her gaze, trying to mask her joy. ¡°I just think it¡¯s such a shame.¡± Readplete version only at F¦Énd£Îovel
¡°A shame?¡± Anthony¡¯s voice wasced with scorn as he fixed her with a cold re. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for your meddling, would they even be getting divorced?¡±
Cathy¡¯s expression darkened, and she bowed her head, her hands clutching her chest. But she remained silent.
Seeing Cathy¡¯s subdued reaction, Kristopher intervened. ¡°Grandpa, our decision to divorce has nothing to do with Cathy. Please, don¡¯t be too hard on her.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s defense of Cathy only deepened Anthony¡¯s frown. ¡°And what¡¯s wrong with me being stern with her? She¡¯s the reason you and Belinda are splitting up. She pushed Belinda to this point. I didn¡¯t even kick her out. I let her stay. That¡¯s more than enough patience on my part!¡±
With a dismissive wave, he turned away from Kristopher. ¡°If all of you care so much about this woman, then don¡¯t hold Belinda back any longer. Go ahead and start the divorce proceedings!¡±
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Chapter 49
?Chapter 49:
Hearing Anthony¡¯s words, Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed, and he instinctively nced toward Cathy.
Tears streamed down Cathy¡¯s face, herplexion as pale as the wall behind her.
Feeling his gaze, Cathy bit her lip and looked at Kristopher with deep sorrow, her voice trembling. ¡°This is all my fault¡ It¡¯s all because of me. I never should¡¯vee back from overseas¡ Had I known my return would cause such chaos in Kristopher and Belinda¡¯s marriage, I would¡¯ve rather stayed abroad, even at the cost of my own life¡¡± Her tears grew more intense as she continued, ¡°Anthony, there¡¯s no need to push Belinda and Kristopher toward a divorce. Since I¡¯m the cause of all this, I¡¯ll leave instead.¡±
With those words, she dabbed at her tears and made her way toward the door. ¡°I¡¯m going back now. I¡¯ll book a flight to Avaloria and continue my treatment there¡¡±
¡°Cathy!¡±
Maggie¡¯s voice cut through the tension as she stepped forward, gently grabbing Cathy¡¯s arm and pulling her back. ¡°What are you thinking? Remember three years ago? After my brother was incapacitated, you left for three months to seek new treatments for him overseas. Yet, before you could return, he married that curse of a woman. And you, choosing not to disrupt their marriage, stayed away for three years, sacrificing your health until illness forced you back home. Now, are you really considering leaving again because of her?¡± Her voice trembled with emotion as she continued, ¡°Your parents already endured the loss of one daughter. You vanished for three years, and now, ill as you are, you n to leave them again¡ How can you justify that?¡±
Maggie paused, her eyes welling with tears before she turned to re at Belinda with fierce intensity. ¡°A woman¡¯s envy can be terrifying. You¡¯ve endured her for three years, yet she remains discontent. If she desires a divorce, so be it. My brother deserves more than this.¡±
At that, Belinda raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a cold smirk. ¡°Really now? Three years ago, Miss Miller flew overseas overnight in search of a new drug to treat aatose patient, right?¡±
Maggie snorted, positioning herself like a knight shielding Cathy. ¡°What else? Cathy loved my brother deeply, and after he slipped into aa, it¡¯s only natural she¡¯d seek a cure,¡± she said, shooting Belinda a frosty re. ¡°Unlike others who exploited my brother¡¯s inability to speak or move to secure a marriage with him. Without Cathy¡¯s initial trip overseas, how could a simple country girl have had the opportunity to wed into our prestigious Cox family?¡±
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Belinda almost burst intoughter at Maggie¡¯s naive eptance of such a flimsy excuse.
Arms crossed, Belinda shot a piercing look at Cathy, who was partially shielded by Maggie. ¡°I¡¯m curious, Miss Miller. When you traveled overseas to find this new medicine, which of Kristopher¡¯s medical records did you take with you? How much physiological data did you collect, spanning how many months? Did you consult any specialists?¡±
She flicked her hair back with a sense of authority. ¡°Three years ago, while Kristophery unresponsive, I was his primary caretaker. His medical records were kept by me and the attending nurses. They are still stored on myputer. Which part of his medical data did Miss Miller take with her to find the medicine?¡±
Cathy¡¯s face immediately drained of color. ¡°I took¡¡±
¡°You didn¡¯t take anything, did you?¡± Belinda cut her off, her voice sharp.
Cathy¡¯s expression soured even further. ¡°I admit, I didn¡¯t bring any documents with me when I went to inquire, but¡ I did help Kristopher in searching for medicine¡¡±
Belinda let out a coldugh. ¡°So, Miss Miller, when you went in search of the new medication, you simply told foreign experts that you had a friend who had been in an ident and was in aa, asking if there was anything that could save him?¡±
As she spoke, Belinda pulled out her phone, scrolling through Cathy¡¯s online history. ¡°Online, it says that three years ago, Miss Miller arrived in Avaloria and immediately joined an acting training camp, where you spent six months¡¡± She nced up at Cathy, offering her a dismissive look. ¡°So, Miss Miller, were you at this secluded acting school consulting your drama teachers about new medication foratose patients?¡±
Cathy¡¯s face turned a deep red.
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Chapter 50
?Chapter 50:
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he noticed Cathy¡¯s troubled expression, prompting him to defend her. ¡°Even if Cathy hasn¡¯t helped me find new medication, it¡¯s none of your business.¡±
Belinda smirked. ¡°Unless you divorce me, your matters will most certainly be my concern, since I¡¯m still your wife.¡± Original content can be found at FindN0vel
She marched toward the door, adding, ¡°It¡¯s still not toote. Let¡¯s head to court right now.¡±
Kristopher stood frozen, watching her slim figure retreat. His expression deepened into a frown. He couldn¡¯t pinpoint exactly when it had started, but now it seemed that every conversation with her spiraled into discussions of divorce.
It felt as if staying married to him had be unbearable torture for her. Could she truly despise him so deeply?
¡°Kristopher.¡±
His gaze snapped to Cathy, who stood by, her lips pressed tightly together as she tentatively reached for his arm. ¡°You and Belinda¡ please, resolve this soon.¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice was soft,ced with urgency¡ªa hint of it catching Belinda¡¯s attention as she turned sharply. ¡°Aren¡¯t youing along?¡±
Annoyed by the ongoing drama, Anthony waved dismissively. ¡°Just divorce her already and let Belinda go.¡±
But Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened, his feet rooted to the spot. ¡°I¡¯m not divorcing you.¡±
The room fell into an uneasy silence.
Anthony mmed his hand on the table. ¡°You brat! You cheated on Belinda, and now you refuse to divorce? What the hell do you really want?¡±
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Kristopher crossed his legs gracefully and settled into the sofa, his expression unflustered. ¡°Bothst night and today, Belinda¡¯s demand for a divorce stems from her issues with Cathy. If I agree to a divorce now, everyone willbel Cathy as the homewrecker who destroyed our marriage.¡±
He turned his prating gaze toward Belinda. ¡°I can¡¯t allow Cathy to be tarnished with that reputation.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s words took Belinda by surprise.
Since Belinda had first brought up the divorce, Kristopher had been dodging and rejecting her proposals. She had pondered over his reluctance¡ªperhaps he was simply ustomed to her presence and loathed the thought of parting ways. Or maybe, he was averse to having his male authority undermined. However, the idea that his refusal was driven by a desire to protect Cathy had never crossed her mind.
Kristopher didn¡¯t want the world to view Cathy as a homewrecker, which exined his persistent rejections. His feelings for Cathy were genuine.
Anthony, seated at the head of the table, let out a derisiveugh. ¡°Oh, so now you¡¯re worried about Miss Miller being branded a homewrecker?¡± He shook his head. ¡°If you were truly concerned, you wouldn¡¯t have unted your affair by picking her up from the airport and parading her around on shopping sprees. You ignored the repercussions then, but now, with Belinda seeking a divorce, you suddenly care?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed, though he remained silent.
¡°Anthony, Kristopher didn¡¯t mean it that way,¡± Cathy began hesitantly, her voiceced with caution. She bit her lip nervously, pulling a piece of paper from her pocket and handing it to Anthony. ¡°This is the divorce agreement Belinda presentedst night. It ims that I¡¯m the reason for their marital issues. I believe Kristopher means he doesn¡¯t want my name mentioned in their divorce papers¡¡±
¡°Cathy.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s voice cut in sharply, his pupils shrinking in dismay. ¡°Why do you have that?¡±
After escorting Cathy to the hospital the previous evening, Kristopher had returned to the banquet venue to retrieve the divorce document that Belinda had prepared. He, along with a few staff members, had searched extensively, but to no avail. The staff had spected that the document was likely discarded by the cleaners amidst the chaos of the night.
Yet here it was, in Cathy¡¯s hands.
What was her reason for holding onto it?
Cathy stammered, her gaze averted as she nervously fiddled with the edge of the paper. ¡°I noticed Belinda had already signed it. I was worried it might fall into the wrong hands, so I decided to keep it safe¡¡±
Anthony scoffed as he nced over the divorce papers. ¡°You clearly have ulterior motives.¡±
He set the papers aside and fixed Belinda with a stern gaze. ¡°Would you prefer to revise this yourself, or do you need my assistance?¡±
The concern in his eyes caused a knot to form in Belinda¡¯s throat. ¡°I¡¯ll handle it myself. Thank you, Anthony.¡±
¡°For what are you thanking me?¡±
Anthony exhaled deeply. ¡°It saddens me that I can no longer call you my granddaughter-inw.¡±
He motioned for Stanley to assist him, and together they left the room.
¡°I¡¯ll amend the divorce agreement and deliver it to your officeter,¡± Belinda stated firmly, shooting Kristopher an icy re. ¡°I trust you won¡¯t pull any stunts this time.¡±
With those words, she quickly turned and exited.
¡°Wait!¡±
As she crossed the threshold, Maggie¡¯s mocking voice followed her. ¡°Now that you¡¯re divorcing my brother, shouldn¡¯t we address something else?¡±
Belinda paused and turned to face Maggie, raising an eyebrow. ¡°And what might that be?¡±
¡°You hurt Cathyst night; she was even sent to the hospital. You owe her an apology,¡± Maggie dered.
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Chapter 51
?Chapter 51:
For a moment, Belinda was taken aback.
She then shot Maggie a cold look. ¡°Why should I apologize? I didn¡¯ty a finger on her.¡±
¡°Then who did?¡±
Rosie¡¯s re intensified as she faced Belinda. ¡°Are you using me?¡±
Belinda quirked an eyebrow. ¡°Was it not you?¡±
Despite the previous night¡¯s chaos, Belinda was certain it had been Rosie who had pped Cathy.
¡°You¡¡±
Rosie¡¯s eyes grew even wider. ¡°You¡¯re lying! Why would I hit Cathy?¡± She turned to Cathy, pleading, ¡°Cathy, please tell them. Was it me or Belinda who struck you?¡±
Cathy¡¯s gaze shifted to Belinda, filled with sorrow and usation. ¡°Since Belinda insists it wasn¡¯t her¡ let¡¯s drop it. Belinda¡¯s already got the wrong idea about my friendship with Kristopher. I wouldn¡¯t want to distress her further.¡±
Without explicitly saying it, Cathy subtly shifted the me onto Belinda.
Belinda¡¯s face contorted with anger. ¡°Was there no surveince in the banquet hallst night?¡±
¡°No.¡±
Carol, who had been observing silently, chimed in with a sly grin. ¡°Last night¡¯s banquet drew a crowd that included close friends of the Cox family and business associates who value their privacy. To ensure their anonymity, the surveince in the banquet hall was disabled for the evening.¡±
With that, Belinda¡¯s expression softened. ¡°Thank you for exining, Carol.¡±
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Carol and Rosie had coordinated much of the previous evening¡¯s arrangements. If Carol knew the surveince had been off, Rosie probably did as well.
It made sense why Rosie had so boldly used Belinda of assaulting Cathy.
However¡
Belinda shot a cool look first at Rosie and then at Cathy. ¡°Do you two really think you can pin this on me just because there¡¯s no footage?¡±
¡°Pin this on you?¡±
Maggieughed dismissively. ¡°Cathy has always been a peacemaker. She doesn¡¯t provoke trouble. Everyone therest night adored her, except you. Who else could have struck her?¡±
¡°Exactly,¡± Rosie said sharply. ¡°Don¡¯t think you can escape the consequences of hitting Cathy just becausest night was chaotic. Since you¡¯re still a member of the Cox family, an apology to Cathy would settle this.¡±
Belinda raised an eyebrow and turned to Kristopher, who had remained quiet. ¡°Do you think I owe her an apology too?¡±
Kristopher sighed, his frown deepening. ¡°Cathy¡¯s not well, and that pst night caused her gums to bleed.¡±
He faced Belinda, his gaze unreadable. ¡°Just apologize to her.¡±
Belinda met his gaze, a taunting smile ying on her lips. ¡°So, you¡¯re bending the truth for your dear Miss Miller, are you?¡±
She was convinced that if Kristopher had actually witnessed her hitting Cathy, he would have been the first to insist on an apology. Neither Maggie nor Rosie would have had to intervene.
His current demeanor clearly indicated that he knew who was responsible for hitting Cathy but was reluctant to confess it. He didn¡¯t want to upset his mother, his sister, or Cathy, so he was pressing her to apologize instead. This content belongs to Find¡ïNovel
Given his predictable behavior, Belinda felt less hurt than she might have expected. A strange sense of calm washed over her, born from repeated disappointments.
She smirked and approached Cathy confidently. ¡°If I had been the one to hit her, I¡¯d apologize without anyone telling me to. But since I wasn¡¯t, don¡¯t try to pin this on me!¡±
With those words, she briskly removed the bandage from Cathy¡¯s face, exposing the swollen mark of the p. Amid the ensuing shocked silence, she ced her hand beside the mark. ¡°See? This p mark is big and wide. It wasn¡¯t me!¡±
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Chapter 52
?Chapter 52:
¡°Ah¡ª! Belinda, what are you doing!?¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice pierced the air, her shock propelling her into Kristopher¡¯s embrace. ¡°Kristopher¡¡± she murmured, seekingfort. Kristopher quickly moved to position himself as a shield before the vulnerable Cathy. ¡°Belinda, what¡¯s gotten into you?¡± he demanded. Not just Kristopher, but his mother and sister rushed to form a protective barrier around Cathy.
Seeing their collective effort, a sardonic smile yed on Belinda¡¯s lips.
She hadn¡¯t fully realized the power Cathy held over others. Cathy had not only persuaded Kristopher to take bold risks on her behalf, but had also enlisted Rosie and Maggie in her defense.
¡°Belinda, you don¡¯t have to apologize,¡± Cathy said, her voice quivering slightly, her lip caught between her teeth in distress. ¡°Just¡ please, no more rash actions.¡± Newest update provided by findnovel
Her words hinted at a deeper fear, perhaps of another physical confrontation.
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed in disapproval. ¡°Belinda isn¡¯t someone who resorts to violence.¡±
Cathy¡¯s anxiety was evident as she murmured, ¡°Butst night¡¡±
¡°It must have been an ident,¡± Kristopher interjected quickly, then turned to Belinda with a pleading look. ¡°Belinda, an apology won¡¯t cost you anything. Apologize to Cathy, and we can all move past this.¡±
¡°She will never apologize!¡± Maggie interjected sharply, her eyes darting from the vivid mark on Cathy¡¯s face to the bandage wrapped around Belinda¡¯s hand. ¡°If Belinda had any remorse, she wouldn¡¯t have ripped off Cathy¡¯s bandage. She knows that Cathy¡¯s career depends on her appearance, yet she chose not only to strike her but to expose her injury publicly. It¡¯s downright cruel!¡±
It was only then that Kristopher noticed Belinda still clutching Cathy¡¯s bandage in her hand.
His brow furrowed, and he approached Belinda, reaching out to retrieve the bandage. However, Belinda swiftly sidestepped his attempt.
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¡°I removed this bandage to show that the p on Miss Miller¡¯s face didn¡¯te from me,¡± Belinda dered, disying her own frail, almost skeletal hand. ¡°Do you really think thatrge, swollen mark on her face could be from me?¡±
Upon hearing this, Carol narrowed her eyes, alternating her gaze between Cathy¡¯s face and Belinda¡¯s hand. ¡°That mark certainly doesn¡¯t seem to match,¡± she mused, turning to Helen. ¡°What¡¯s your take on this?¡±
Helen¡¯s frown deepened. She had been inclined to support Cathy, but the disparity between the mark on Cathy¡¯s face and Belinda¡¯s delicate hand was noticeable. With a reluctant tone, she conceded, ¡°No, they don¡¯t seem to match.¡±
Rosie, Maggie, and Cathy were taken aback, unprepared for Belinda to defend herself so adamantly. For a brief moment, they were at a loss for words.
Maggie, ever defiant, finally retorted, ¡°That p on Cathy¡¯s face was from yesterday. Perhaps it swelled overnight, making it appearrger.¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes brightened as she quickly chimed in, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s possible. It definitely wasn¡¯t this big or widest night.¡±
Belinda, growing increasingly frustrated with their illogical arguments, let out augh. ¡°So you¡¯re determined to get an apology out of me today, huh?¡± she said with a smirk. ¡°Very well, I¡¯ll give you exactly what you¡¯re asking for!¡±
With those words, Belinda walked determinedly over to Cathy and delivered a resounding p to the uninjured side of Cathy¡¯s face. A sharp ¡°Smack!¡± rang through the room, and a stunned silence followed.
Cathy clutched her face, looking up in disbelief, her voiceced with anger. ¡°How dare you hit me!¡±
¡°Did you see that?¡±
Belinda flexed her tingling hand, then turned to Kristopher with an icy stare. ¡°If I really wanted to hit her, it would look like this.¡± The side of Cathy¡¯s face that Belinda had just pped was visibly more swollen than the other, which had been bruised the night before.
Under Kristopher¡¯s steely gaze, Belinda casually slipped her hands into her pockets. ¡°Miss Miller, this time I did hit you. I¡¯m sorry. I apologize.¡±
¡°Belinda!¡±
Kristopher wrapped his arms around Cathy, shooting Belinda a fierce look. ¡°I only wanted an apology. Was it necessary to go to such lengths?¡±
Belinda used to be so diplomatic, always seeking harmony. When had she be so defiant?
¡°I said it before, I won¡¯t apologize for things I haven¡¯t done.¡±
Belinda gave him a chilling nce. ¡°I¡¯ll update the divorce papers and send them your way. Review them, sign if they¡¯re satisfactory, and then we can schedule a meeting to finalize everything.¡± With those words, she turned and left.
Kristopher narrowed his eyes, a part of him wanting to chase after her, but Cathy gripped his arm tighter. ¡°Kristopher¡ I feel awful¡¡±
As Cathy¡¯s frail voice echoed behind her, Belinda couldn¡¯t help but smirk as she walked away from the Cox family estate.
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Chapter 53
?Chapter 53:
After leaving the Cox family estate, Belinda found herself standing by the roadside, struggling to get a taxi. Anthony, preferring solitude, had chosen this suburban home for its peacefulness. The area was secluded, with few cars passing by.
Frustrated, Belinda turned to a ride-hailing app, but even after ten minutes, no cars were avable. Feeling stranded, she reluctantly called her friend Madisyn for help.
The previous night¡¯s heavy rain had left puddles scattered along the road, reflecting the trees above. As she stared into these watery mirrors, Belinda called her best friend. ¡°Can youe pick me up? I¡¯m at the Cox family estate gate,¡± she asked.
Madisyn sounded surprised on the other end of the line. ¡°Darren told me you were in the hospital. I was about to wrap up here and visit you. What happenedst night? Why did you go back to the estate?¡±
¡°It¡¯s a long story,¡± Belinda sighed, just as she heard the distant rumble of an engine starting.
It was Kristopher¡¯s car.
Her eyes darted toward the noise, but before she could see clearly, the ck Cayenne sped past, flinging mud all over her.
With her new outfit ruined, Belinda rolled her eyes in frustration. Kristopher had clearly done it on purpose, seeking revenge for the p she had given him earlier.
Hadn¡¯t he said that if she simply apologized, he would act as if it never happened? What a petty man!
In the backseat of the sleek ck Cayenne, Cathy noticed Belinda, disheveled and standing by the roadside in the rearview mirror. A smirk crept across her face.
Belinda got what wasing to her.
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She deserved it for daring to bully Cathy.
Kristopher¡¯s eyes followed Cathy¡¯s gaze to the rearview mirror. There, reflected in the ss, was Belinda crouching by the roadside, chatting on her phone while absentmindedly plucking at the grass growing in the flowerbed.
Her posture made her appear small and delicate, hardly the image of an adult woman. Kristopher furrowed his brow in concern. Was it just his imagination, or did Belinda seem much thinnertely? Could it have been the aftermath of the miscarriage? Or perhaps something else¡
¡°Kristopher.¡±
Kristopher caught glimpses of Belinda in the rearview mirror, his gaze lingering a little too long. Cathy, noticing this, bit her lip and feigned difort, clutching her chest as she leaned into him. ¡°I¡¯m in so much pain¡¡±
Snapping out of his reverie, Kristopher instinctively supported Cathy as she leaned into him, his expression concerned. ¡°Pain?¡±
¡°Yeah¡¡± Cathy nestled into his broad, sturdy chest, tears welling up as she continued, ¡°They say that the stomach is tied to our emotions. Even healthy people get upset or angry, and it often hurts¡ let alone someone like me, who¡¯s had stomach issues for a while¡¡± As she spoke, her voice broke into sobs. ¡°Kristopher, do you think I¡¯ll ever get better?¡±
¡°Don¡¯t talk like that. With all the advancements in medicine, you¡¯ll get better.¡±
Kristopher reassured her gently, holding her close while discreetly texting his assistant, Marc, on his phone, ¡°Arrange a car to pick up Belinda and take her back to town.¡±
After sending the text, Kristopher nced again at the diminishing figure in the rearview mirror. Belinda was still there, probably trying to get a taxi over the phone. He couldn¡¯t help but sneer.
Without him, Belinda struggled even to take a taxi and was left to sit alone by the roadside. Did she really think she could manage on her own after their divorce? Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n Find~Novel
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Chapter 54
?Chapter 54:
Belinda was crouched by the roadside, idly pulling at the grass from a flowerbed as Madisyn¡¯s voice buzzed with irritation through the phone.
¡°I¡¯ve been telling you forever to get your own car, but you brushed it off, saying Kristopher had enough cars to go around, and that buying one would be just throwing money away.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s tone was thick with frustration. ¡°And look where that got you? That jerk has taken off with Miss Miller, and here you are, stuck without a ride!¡±
Remaining poised, Belinda continued to yank at the grass. ¡°I guess it¡¯s time I got a car. It really is a hassle each time Ie to visit Anthony.¡±
¡°You¡¯re still thinking about visiting the Cox family?¡± Th?s chapter is updated by Find~Novel
Madisyn sounded incredulous. ¡°Aren¡¯t you and Kristopher getting a divorce? Once everything¡¯s settled, you won¡¯t have to deal with his family ever again!¡±
Belinda¡¯s hold on her phone tightened just a bit. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Pushing herself up tiredly, she stretched her limbs. ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting forever. When are youing?¡±
Before Madisyn could reply, a voice from her office cut in.
¡°Madisyn, can you review this?¡±
Belinda exhaled softly and sat down on a nearby rock, realizing that Madisyn was still tangled up at work and nowhere close to leaving. ¡°That¡¯s fine.¡±
After a brief interaction with her colleague, Madisyn¡¯s voice softened, tinged with regret. ¡°Belinda¡¡±
¡°It¡¯s fine, really. Carry on with your work,¡± Belinda responded, her smile audible even through the phone.
¡°I¡¯m buried in tasks here,¡± Madisyn admitted. ¡°But I¡¯ve managed to send someone to pick you up. He was handsome, too. He¡¯ll be there any minute!¡±
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¡°Handsome?¡± Belinda echoed, her tone lifting with curiosity. She raised an eyebrow, her voice tinged with amusement. ¡°Another new boyfriend?¡±
Madisyn¡¯s reply was unusually stern. ¡°Don¡¯t joke about that. He¡¯s not into me at all!¡±
She insisted with an uncharacteristic seriousness, ¡°Stop teasing me.¡±
¡°And how can you be so sure he¡¯s not interested?¡± Belinda probed, her curiosity piqued.
Just as Belinda was about to tease her further, a white Audi rolled to a stop in front of her.
The window descended, revealing a man with a weing smile.
¡°Belinda.¡±
¡°Darren?¡± Her surprise was evident in her voice.
¡°Looks like he¡¯s already here.¡±
Madisyn chuckled upon hearing Belinda¡¯s reaction. ¡°Now do you see why I said he¡¯s not interested in me? Darren¡¯s only got eyes for you! You missed your shot three years back, so don¡¯t waste it this time!¡± With those words, Madisyn ended the call first.
The busy signal buzzed in Belinda¡¯s ear, filling her mind with noise. She knew all too well how Darren felt about her. Yet¡
Her body was in terrible condition now. She feared holding him back¡
¡°Get in,¡± Darren urged gently.
Taking a deep breath to clear her mind, Belinda slid into the car, setting aside her doubts. The Audi revved up and swiftly made its way towards the bustling city center.
At Peace Hospital, Kristopher was by arge ss window, observing Cathy in the room, clutching a nurse¡¯s arm and vomiting. His brows drew together in a tight knit.
¡°How serious is her condition?¡± he asked, his voiceced with concern.
The doctor, visibly nervous, adjusted his sses and avoided Kristopher¡¯s intense gaze. ¡°Miss Miller¡¯s stomach cancer is quite severe,¡± he admitted.
d in a bespoke suit, Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°I saw a report recently that Peace Hospital has a new treatment for stomach cancer¡¡±
Hearing this, the doctor¡¯s difort grew. ¡°We do, but it¡¯s in short supply and has already been administered to another patient just a few days ago¡¡±
¡°We can work with one less dose,¡± Kristopher asserted, his eyes never leaving Cathy¡¯s ashen face in the ward. ¡°Reach out to that patient, exin Cathy¡¯s dire situation, and let them know I¡¯m prepared to purchase any remaining doses at whatever cost.¡±
The doctor paused, shocked by the proposal. ¡°Mr. Cox, I¡¯m not sure if¡¡±
His words were cut off by the ringing of Kristopher¡¯s phone.
He answered with a scowl. ¡°Is she with you?¡±
The voice of Marc, trembling on the other line, carried bad news.
¡°When our driver got there, thedy had already left in a white Audi¡¡±
¡°White Audi?¡± Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed suspiciously. ¡°Did Madisyn switch cars?¡± He recalled that Madisyn¡¯s usual ride was a red Maserati.
¡°No, it wasn¡¯t her¡ The person who picked her up was Mr. Wright.¡±
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Chapter 55
?Chapter 55:
The sleek white Audi cut through the road, its speed making the outside world a blur. Belinda was silent, her thoughts deep, as she watched thendscape fly past her window.
¡°Belinda.¡±
The driver, Darren, broke the lengthy silence, his brow furrowed with concern. ¡°You were adamant about divorcing Kristopher and cutting ties with the entire Cox family, weren¡¯t you? So why¡¡±
He trailed off, leaving the question hanging in the air, but Belinda caught his drift. He was puzzled as to why she had returned to the Cox estate barely a day after vowing to distance herself forever.
She faced him, offering a small, knowing smile. ¡°Anthony turned in earlyst night; he missed the announcement of my divorce and the uproar with the Cox family. This morning, when he learned about it, he wanted me toe over and exin everything.¡± This content belongs to F?nd-Novel
She took a deep breath before adding, ¡°Anthony has always treated me kindly. Even if I end my marriage to Kristopher, I still hold great respect for him.¡±
Darren¡¯s smirk carried a touch of scorn. ¡°Clearly, Anthony is decent to you. He may be a kind old soul, but his kin certainly don¡¯t share his virtues.¡±
Belinda pressed her lips together, choosing to stay quiet.
Seeing Belinda¡¯s tightly pressed lips, Darren furrowed his brow, convinced she was upset about his earlierments about Kristopher. ¡°Belinda, when Anthony called you back to the estate to exin things, he must have called Kristopher too, right?¡±
Belinda¡¯s frown deepened, and she nodded. ¡°Yes, the whole Cox family was there.¡±
¡°The whole Cox family¡¡± Darren repeated, his voice dripping with scorn. ¡°Didn¡¯t they think about how hard it would be for you to find transportation from such a remote area?¡±
He continued, his disdain evident, ¡°When I left the hospital, Kristopher was with you. You came here with him, didn¡¯t you? He brought you here but didn¡¯t think about how you¡¯d get back to the city without a car, especially in your condition?¡±
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He turned to face Belinda, his expression serious. ¡°If Cathy had been with him instead of you, do you think he¡¯d have forgotten that she might need a ride back to the city? Can you really still have feelings for such an asshole?¡±
Each of Darren¡¯s words hit Belinda like a heavy blow, worsening the ache in her already broken heart. She turned her gaze to the scenery shing by outside the window, her voice soft and distant. ¡°I lost my feelings for him a long time ago.¡±
¡°Good,¡± Darren said, his tone lightening as he exhaled in relief. ¡°Once the divorce is final, Madisyn and I will throw a big celebration for you. You can¡¯t keep living like this.¡±
¡°Darren¡¡±
Belinda frowned, turning to face Darren with a serious expression. ¡°What did Madisyn tell you when she asked you to pick me up?¡±
Caught off guard by the question, Darren hesitated briefly before responding honestly. ¡°She mentioned she was tied up and needed me to fill in for her.¡±
¡°But it¡¯s work hours now. You have your own responsibilities, don¡¯t you?¡±
Belinda took a deep breath and fixed her gaze on Darren. ¡°Look, Darren, I value your kindness, but let¡¯s remember we¡¯re just friends. It really isn¡¯t necessary for you to leave work to help me out. Besides, my personal life, especially my marriage to Kristopher, is my own affair. I¡¯d prefer you not to make remarks about it in the future.¡±
Darren stood silent, momentarily stunned by her directness. Eventually, Belinda turned away to gaze out the window. ¡°Even if I end up divorcing, I¡¯m not looking to jump into another rtionship for a good while. I think it¡¯s best we maintain some distance.¡± Previously, Belinda had held back because she respected Darren¡¯s intentions, but his remarks just now had overstepped.
Darren¡¯splexion grew pale as he remained quiet. After a long silence, he sighed deeply. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. But, Belinda, my being here wasn¡¯t purely personal. It didn¡¯t disrupt my work.¡± He stopped the car and handed her a document. ¡°Part of my job today actually involveding to see you.¡±
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Chapter 56
?Chapter 56:
Belinda was taken aback, pointing at herself in disbelief. ¡°Me? Your work today is rted to me?¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
Darren¡¯s smile widened. ¡°Remember when you asked Madisyn to send off your designs to those jewelry firms?¡±
He motioned for her to look at the documents in her grasp. ¡°Well, this morning, my boss handed these to me and asked me to connect with the designer. I reviewed the designs and found them impressive, but they do need a few tweaks to really shine in the marketce. Surprisingly, as I began searching for this designer¡¯s contact details, I soon discovered that all these works were yours.¡±
Belinda¡¯s eyes widened as she flipped through the papers, her pulse quickening.
These were indeed the designs she had entrusted to Madisyn some time ago. Despite her background in jewelry design, after marrying Kristopher, she had shifted her focus entirely to supporting him. Unlike Madisyn, who had her fingers on the pulse of the industry thanks to her modeling career, Belinda felt out of touch. So, she had handed her creative reins to Madisyn, trusting her to navigate the industry waters.
And now, as it turned out, her work hadnded right here, in Darren¡¯s hands at hispany. It all made sense now. Darren was here on official business.
Yet, she had harbored doubts, wondering¡
Belinda, feeling a mix of embarrassment and uncertainty, caught herself biting her lip as she stole a nce toward Darren. ¡°Darren¡¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Darren reassured her, sensing her hesitation and desiring to maintain a professional distance. He continued with a serious tone. ¡°I only saw this document for the first time this morning. The leaders and the review team found it appropriate, which is why they rmended I reach out to you. Our interest in partnering with you isn¡¯t because of our friendship.¡±
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Belinda¡¯s guilt deepened upon hearing his words. ¡°I owe you an apology.¡±
Darren paused, surprised at her confession, then burst into a genuineugh.
¡°There¡¯s no need for apologies. Yes, I did have my reasons for picking you up today. However, since you¡¯ve addressed it so candidly, I won¡¯t pursue it further. I genuinely respect your work, and I hope our personal connections won¡¯t interfere with our potential coboration.¡±
His forthrightness made Belinda realize she might have been too guarded.
She bit her lip again, choosing to remain silent.
After a moment of quiet, Darren¡¯s gaze met hers. ¡°You should know what mypany is all about. We¡¯re a design studio solely focused on this kind of work¡ Can you ept that?¡±
Belinda nodded in agreement.
She didn¡¯t have much time left.
If she wanted her designs to hit the market swiftly, joining a studio to leverage its connections and experience seemed like the quickest route to refine and market her work.
Darren extended a piece of paper toward Belinda. ¡°Here are the sry and benefits. Do you have any other requests?¡±
Belinda took a quick nce at the document before fixing her gaze intently on Darren. ¡°Only one,¡± she replied. ¡°I want to see my designs on the market within three months.¡±
¡°That¡¯s challenging.¡±
Darren furrowed his brows, concern etching his face. ¡°Belinda, from the initial design to the final production, jewelry making demands extensivemunication and meticulous refinement. It¡¯s not that simple¡¡±
He trailed off mid-sentence, suddenly looking up with a start. His eyes widened in realization. ¡°Belinda, three months¡ is that¡ all the time you have left?¡±
Darren had hit upon the truth, and seeing no reason to conceal it any longer, Belinda confirmed softly, ¡°Yes.¡± Fresh chapters posted on find?novel
Darren¡¯splexion nched.
He stared at Belinda, speechless, his expression a mix of shock and empathy.
He exhaled deeply after a long pause. ¡°I see why you mentioned that you won¡¯t be in a rtionship for six months¡ Is there truly no cure for your condition?¡±
Darren¡¯s gaze,den with sorrow and concern, met Belinda¡¯s. She offered a faint smile in response. ¡°The usual treatments like radiation and chemotherapy would only prolong my suffering before death, which is why I¡¯ve declined them. However, there¡¯s a new treatment for stomach cancer that¡¯s be avable. The doctors at Peace Hospital secured a five-dose course, and I¡¯ve already administered one dose a few days ago. If it¡¯s effective, it might extend my life.¡±
Belinda fixed her gaze.
Belinda fixed her gaze on Darren once more. ¡°But I¡¯m not holding out for a miracle. We should still n for the three-month timeline we discussed, alright?¡±
Darren, looking into her clear, unwavering eyes, paused before nodding resolutely. ¡°Alright. Belinda, let¡¯s work together.¡±
A smile of gratitude broke across Belinda¡¯s face. ¡°Thank you.¡±
Darren then restarted the car, his emotions swirling.
Thirty minutester, they arrived at the base of the skyscraper housing Madisyn¡¯s office. Belinda bid Darren farewell, and just as she turned to enter the building, her phone rang.
It was the doctor from Peace Hospital. ¡°Belinda, regarding the new stomach cancer drug you¡¯re using¡ someone has offered a substantial sum to purchase the remaining four doses.¡±
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Chapter 57
?Chapter 57:
Belinda came to an abrupt halt. ¡°Someone is after my medicine?¡± she gasped. This content belongs to F¦Énd£Îovel
The memory was crystal clear. Just a few days earlier, her doctor had phoned her with an update, telling her that she was currently the most critical stomach cancer patient at Peace Hospital.
Belinda understood that opportunities like this were rare. That was why she had hurried from the party to the airport that very night, making her way back to Nawrin to begin her treatment at Peace Hospital.
Upon her return, she had met with the doctor, who shared that the hospital¡¯s board had convened and unanimously decided she could undergo the new drug treatment, provided she could cover the cost. There wouldn¡¯t be any furtherplications regarding her treatment. Yet now, merely a week after her first dose, the doctor was on the phone, hesitantly informing her that someone was willing to pay a high price for her medication.
¡°Well¡ yes,¡± the doctor stuttered, clearly ufortable. ¡°There¡¯s a patient whose condition is slightly less severe than yours. Her boyfriend caught wind of the new drug on the news¡ He approached us, adamant that cost was no object, and he wants to purchase the remaining four doses¡¡±
With a heavy sigh, the doctor continued, ¡°Belinda, I understand this might be hard to ept, but¡ there are only a few clinical trials for this drug. It¡¯s not even proven to be effective against stomach cancer yet, so¡¡±
¡°So, should I just hand over all my remaining medicine to someone wealthier?¡±
Belinda inhaled deeply, rose from her seat, and made her way toward the elevator with a detached tone. ¡°I disagree.¡±
¡°But Belinda¡¡±
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¡°Dr. Reid,¡± Belinda uttered with a faint smile. ¡°You¡¯ve been my doctor throughout this ordeal, and you¡¯ve treated me well; I¡¯m aware of that. Otherwise, you wouldn¡¯t have rushed to call me at the first sign of news, even in the middle of the night. It¡¯s the hospital¡¯s pressure that¡¯s prompting you to discuss this with me, isn¡¯t it?¡±
Marlene Reid exhaled deeply but remained silent.
¡°It¡¯s fine. Tell the hospital administration that I have funds as well. I can meet their price and even surpass it if necessary. If the hospital persists, I will reach out to the media and reveal how Peace Hospital discriminates between patients.¡±
Upon hearing her words, Marlene pressed her lips together and responded, ¡°Alright, I will ry your message.¡±
¡°And¡¡±
Belinda walked confidently to the elevator and pressed the call button as she spoke with a light tone. ¡°If they keep bothering you, just direct them to me. I¡¯m curious to see who¡¯s daring enough to fight over medicine with a patient who has less than three months to live.¡± With that, she ended the call and stepped inside.
At Peace Hospital, Marlene hung up the phone with a heavy sigh, turned, and knocked on the director¡¯s office door. Inside, Kristopher and Cathy sat across from the director. When Marlene entered, the director smiled warmly and gestured for her to sit. ¡°Marlene, were you able to reach the patient? What did she say?¡±
Marlene looked uneasy. Her gaze flicked to Kristopher and Cathy before she lowered her head and ryed Belinda¡¯s message.
Kristopher scoffed, scorn lining his voice. ¡°Surpass my bid? That¡¯s bold. Tell her I¡¯m prepared to go as high as five hundred million. If she can match that, I¡¯ll step aside and let her have the four doses.¡±
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Chapter 58
?Chapter 58:
On the 23rd floor of Ocean Tower, Belinda sat in Madisyn¡¯s office, typing away at theputer and meticulously removing every mention of Cathy from the divorce agreement. Behind the desk, Madisyn¡¯s voice carried across the room as she guided a group of new models with firm authority.
When Belinda finished the deletions, she nced up at her best friend. Madisyn now exuded confidence and experience,manding the room with ease. Belinda couldn¡¯t help but smile.
She remembered their first meeting vividly. Back then, Madisyn was just a shy fledgling model, her eyes alight with excitement at the prospect of the fashion world¡ªmuch like the new recruits she was now coaching. Original content can be found at Find?Novel
Joyce Scott had leaned against Belinda¡¯s shoulder during that initial encounter,ughter bubbling from her lips. ¡°Belinda, my ssmate is incredible¡ªstraightforward, generous, and talented! Someday we¡¯ll start a jewelry business. I¡¯ll handle operations, you¡¯ll design, and Madisyn can be our advertising model. We¡¯ll be unstoppable!¡±
Neen at the time, Belinda had felt her own dreams sparkle. She had pinched Joyce¡¯s nose yfully and replied, ¡°All right, I¡¯ll lead us to sess!¡±
Madisyn had joined in theirughter. ¡°I believe our future is bright¡ Joyce, you can call me ¡®sister,¡¯ just like you do Belinda!¡±
Joyce had rolled her eyes. ¡°I only called Belinda ¡®sister¡¯ because I lost a bet. I don¡¯t use that term for her anymore, and I¡¯m definitely not starting with you.¡±
Those afternoons of frolicking and shared ambition felt as vivid now as they had then. Lost in the memory, Belinda sighed and looked back at Madisyn, who was patiently sharing her expertise with the neers. A swirl of emotions churned within her.
Years ago, they had vowed to build their careers together, support one another, and remain friends for life. Fate, however, had charted a different course.
Four years earlier, Joyce had slipped into a vegetative state without warning. Her parents and older sister moved abroad seeking better treatment, effectively cutting ties with their old friends. The trio¡¯s once tight-knit bond dwindled until only Belinda and Madisyn remained close.
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Recently, Belinda had been diagnosed with stomach cancer and given less than three months to live. When she was gone, would Madisyn feel lonely?
Lost in thought, Belinda watched the junior models, noting how they admired Madisyn with deep respect. Once timid, Madisyn had grown into a confident woman whose career flourished and who was well liked by many. In Belinda¡¯s absence, Madisyn would surely recover from sorrow and embrace a new chapter of her life¡
¡°Belinda,¡± Madisyn called,ughter dancing in her voice as she leaned close. ¡°What¡¯s caught your attention?¡±
Startled, Belinda offered an awkward smile. ¡°I was just admiring how you handle the neers. Youmand respect like a seasoned pro.¡±
Madisyn rolled her eyes and slumped slightly in her chair, weariness flickering across her features. ¡°They don¡¯t focus on mastering their craft. They¡¯re chasing the spotlight. Modeling isn¡¯t just about looking good¡ªit takes experience. They all dream of fame overnight.¡± She shook her head dismissively. ¡°Sess doesn¡¯t work like that. It¡¯s wishful thinking.¡±
Belinda chuckled at her friend¡¯s candidness. ¡°You sound even more like a veteran now,¡± she said,ughter echoing Madisyn¡¯s earlier lightheartedness.
Madisyn pressed her lips together, a mixture of frustration and resignation softening her expression. ¡°I¡¯m only in my twenties¡ªat the peak of my life. I¡¯m not ready to be an old-timer.¡±
She nced at Belinda¡¯s screen. ¡°How¡¯s your divorce paperworking along?¡±
Belinda looked back at the document and sighed, reminded of her unfinished business. ¡°It¡¯s actually been ready for a bit,¡± she admitted.
She hurriedly printed the revised divorce agreement and neatly signed her name at the bottom. To guard against any mishaps in transit, she signed several copies.
¡°Great,¡± Madisyn said, noticing Belinda¡¯s actions. She quickly called a courier to dispatch the documents to Kristopher.
Once the courier had departed, Madisyn took a deep breath and turned to Belinda. ¡°This time, Kristopher should just ept the divorce and not stir up any trouble, right?¡±
Belinda frowned slightly but nodded. ¡°Yes, hopefully.¡±
Feeling a mix of irritation and relief, Madisyn ran her fingers through her hair. ¡°What a hassle,¡± she muttered, then brightened as she looked at Belinda. ¡°Forget about him. Come on, I know a ce that¡¯ll cheer us up!¡±
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Chapter 59
?Chapter 59:
The zing afternoon sun at two o¡¯clock cast its rays over the bustling racetrack, heightening the excitement in the air. Madisyn, now d in a racing suit, led Belinda into the venue. She squinted at the dust kicked up by distant cars and offered a small smile. ¡°When was thest time you drove?¡±
Belinda slid her suit sleeves into ce. ¡°I haven¡¯t been behind the wheel of a race car since Joyce¡¯s ident.¡± Before her life intersected with Joyce¡¯s, she¡¯d been a country girl making ends meet with odd jobs at a suburban clinic. Joyce, from a wealthy family, had introduced her to dance, racing, and other experiences she never could have imagined. But the tragic ident that left Joyce in a vegetative state four years ago had plunged Belinda into deep sorrow and anxiety. Then Kristopher¡¯s ident consumed her attention, and she hadn¡¯t touched a race car since.
Madisyn nced over her shoulder with a grin. ¡°Back when you were Mrs. Cox, I wouldn¡¯t have dared bring you here for fun. But now that you¡¯re free, I want you to unwind. After all, Joyce used to take us racing to blow off steam.¡±
Belinda nodded. ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±
¡°Hey, it feels like forever!¡± a voice called, cutting through the roar of engines.
A man broke away from a group and strode toward them. ¡°Madisyn!¡±
¡°Allen!¡± Madisyn greeted, her eyes lighting up. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to see you here!¡±
Allen Wilde, his gaze snagged by the woman in the red suit standing behind Madisyn, excused himself and approached with a weing smile. ¡°Who¡¯s this with you?¡±
Madisyn beamed. ¡°This is my close friend, Belinda Nelson. And this is Allen Wilde, the eldest son of the Wilde family. He¡¯s been studying abroad and just got back a few days ago.¡± Read full story at find(?)ovel
Belinda furrowed her brow, searching her memory.
Nawrin was a small town, and the Coxes often mingled with the Wildes. Belinda remembered hearing about Allen. He¡¯d been a childhood friend of Kristopher¡¯s and had gone overseas to study. He struggled academically, though, and his grandfather decreed he couldn¡¯t return until he earned his degree. During Belinda¡¯s three-year marriage to Kristopher, she¡¯d never met Allen.
¡°Miss Nelson,¡± Allen said, offering his hand with a warm smile.
Belinda stood and shook his hand politely. ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Wilde. Congrattions on your graduation.¡±
Allen paused in surprise before ncing yfully at Madisyn. ¡°Do you share everything with your friends?¡±
Madisynughed. ¡°Your achievements aren¡¯t exactly a secret.¡±
Allen rolled his eyes. ¡°Without you, how would Miss Nelson even know?¡±
He turned back to Belinda with a cheeky grin. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen you at Nawrin¡¯s races before. Are you new here? Do you have any experience with race cars?¡±
Belinda bit her lip. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve had some experience, but¡ª¡±
¡°She¡¯s quite new,¡± Madisyn interjected, turning to Allen. ¡°How about a challenge? Race against the newbie here. If you lose¡¡±
Madisyn¡¯s eyes narrowed yfully as she eyed the luxurious watch on Allen¡¯s wrist. ¡°If you lose, you hand over that fancy watch to my friend. What do you say?¡±
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Chapter 60
?Chapter 60:
Belinda caught sight of the watch on Allen¡¯s wrist and frowned at its expensive brand.
Before she could stop herself, she tugged on Madisyn¡¯s arm. ¡°No need. I don¡¯t have anything of equal value to bet.¡±
Belinda tried to keep her voice low, but Allen stood so close he heard every word. He mistook her hesitation for doubt and shed a smug grin. ¡°Don¡¯t worry¡ªeveryone starts as a beginner. The bet¡¯s just for fun. Don¡¯t take it so seriously.¡±
Leaning against a nearby column, he radiated confident ease. ¡°Here¡¯s the deal: if I lose, the watch is yours. If you lose, just add me on WhatsApp. Sound fair?¡±
¡°Deal!¡± Madisyn snapped her fingers and epted on Belinda¡¯s behalf before she could protest. ¡°Let¡¯s gear up and start right away.¡±
Allen chuckled as he stood and patted Belinda on the shoulder. ¡°Ms. Nelson, safety first when racing. Don¡¯t stress¡ªjust finishing is an achievement.¡± He then rejoined the circle of spectators who hung on his every word.
¡°Allen¡¯s slick at getting a girl¡¯s number,¡± one of them joked.
¡°That watch must be worth at least two or three million. Do you really want to risk it?¡± another asked.
¡°He spent his time overseas racing instead of studying. No way he¡¯ll lose to a newbie,¡± a third chimed in.
As Allen adjusted his racing suit beside his car, he shot Belinda a confident look. ¡°If she beats me today, I¡¯lle after her.¡± The group erupted inughter and apuse.
¡°What an ego,¡± Madisyn muttered, rolling her eyes. Sheid a reassuring hand on Belinda¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Just focus and show him he¡¯s not unbeatable.¡±
Belinda met her friend¡¯s gaze, skeptical. ¡°I haven¡¯t raced in years. Aren¡¯t you worried I¡¯ll make a mistake?¡±
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¡°You¡¯ll do fine,¡± Madisyn reassured, drawing Belinda closer to the starting line. ¡°You¡¯ve always been our rock. Remember how unstoppable you were? Allen doesn¡¯t stand a chance, not even after all this time.¡±
Belinda let a small smile creep across her face. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll do my best not to disappoint.¡±
Soon they were both geared up at the line. When the official waved the g, their cars shot forward like unleashed arrows.
Before the race began, everyone¡ªMadisyn excepted¡ªwas certain Allen would win easily. Yet with eachp, disbelief rippled through the stands. Belinda, the track¡¯stest sensation, surged ahead of Allen so decisively that by the time he realized the threat, it was already toote. She crossed the finish line well in front of him.
A hush fell over the crowd, their faces mirroring astonishment.
¡°You won!¡± Madisyn cried, sprinting forward to embrace her friend. ¡°I knew you had it in you!¡±
Just then, Allen¡¯s car rolled over the line and coasted to a stop. He climbed out, removed his helmet, then slid off his expensive watch and offered it to Belinda. ¡°A bet¡¯s a bet.¡±
¡°Thanks!¡± Belinda managed before Madisyn, grinning, snatched the watch from his hand. ¡°Allen, you¡¯re such a good sport and always keep your promises!¡±
Allen chuckled, his expression bright. Even in defeat, he bore no bitterness¡ªonly excitement and admiration as he watched Belinda. It had been a long time since he¡¯d met someone as poised, skilled, and captivating as she was.
¡°Mr. Wilde,¡± Belinda began, extending her hand with her phone in it. ¡°Though I emerged victorious, Madisyn may have given you the wrong impression. I¡¯m hardly new to racing. Let¡¯s call it a draw.¡±
A flicker of surprise lit up Allen¡¯s eyes as he quickly took out his phone, saved her number and added her on WhatsApp. Once they were connected, Belinda stowed her phone away. ¡®Madisyn and I are off now. Take care.¡¯
With those words, she turned and strode towards Madisyn, her hair billowing behind her in the wind and enhancing her already striking
presence. Read full story at fin?novel
Compelled by her allure, Allen took out his phone again and took a photo of Belinda in her racing attire. He uploaded it to a chat group with a caption: ¡®Just met the woman of my dreams after the race. How long do you reckon before I win her heart?¡¯ Meanwhile, at the Cox Group skyscraper¡
Kristopher had just exited the lift when his phone vibrated with a notification from the same chat group. It was Allen¡¯s message. His expression turned to a frown as he opened the message and saw the photo of the woman. He came to an abrupt halt.
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Chapter 61
?Chapter 61:
In the photograph, Belinda¡¯s gaze rested downward as her hands moved with practiced elegance, examining the race car before her. She wore a sleek ck-and-blue racing suit that entuated her slender, agile form, lending her a poised and vibrant air. The image captured her in profile, highlighting her prominent nose and bright, expressive eyes¡ªfeatures that added to her striking beauty.
Her long hair fluttered in the racetrack breeze, strands dancing in the wind and softening her otherwise sharp, determined presence.
Kristopher stared at the photo for a long moment. Only when he spotted Madisyn standing nearby did he feel certain that the woman in the image was indeed Belinda. He narrowed his eyes thoughtfully. Belinda had changed so much since her miscarriage. She¡¯d learned to dance confidently at parties, to stand up for herself when bullied¡ªand now she waspeting sessfully on the track?
¡°Why is everyone so silent? You¡¯re usually quite chatty, aren¡¯t you?¡± he typed, the question hanging in the void of the chat.
Atst, Allen broke the silence with aughing emoji and a teasing message: ¡°Are you struck by her beauty too, andpeting with me in silence?¡± But the chat remained still.
This was a tight circle of wealthy Nawrin youth who¡¯d grown up together. Except for Allen, who¡¯d been abroad for years, nearly everyone there had known Belinda as Kristopher¡¯s wife. After the recent gossip at Anthony¡¯s birthday about her imminent divorce¡ªand now Allen¡¯s open admiration¡ªthe group hesitated to reply.
Kristopher nced back at the picture, his lips curling into a sneer. He broke his usual silence with a single message: ¡°Are you sure?¡±
Allen, startled by the response, felt a surge of excitement. He typed back eagerly, ¡°Of course! Kristopher, do you believe I can pull this off?¡±
Ignoring the direct challenge, Kristopher asked simply, ¡°Which racetrack are you at? Are youing?¡± ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? f?ndnovel
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Allen¡¯s pulse quickened at the thought of the CEO of Cox Group inquiring about his whereabouts. With trembling fingers, he replied, ¡°We¡¯re at the Speed Racetrack in the southern suburbs!¡±
¡°I see.¡±
With that brief reply, Kristopher pocketed his phone and walked confidently into his office. He had barely settled into his chair when Marc knocked and entered, presenting him with an express envelope. ¡°Sir, this is from Mrs. Cox.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened as he epted the document. He opened it quickly and found the revised divorce agreement inside. It matched their discussion at the family estate: Belinda had amended only the section regarding his affair with Cathy, leaving everything else untouched. She would leave with nothing but their Ragdoll cat, Fluffy.
His mood soured instantly. Memories flooded his mind¡ªFluffy had only been with Belinda for two years. Yet she could consider ending their three-year marriage over a cat. To Belinda, was he truly less significant than a pet?
Furrowing his brow, he reopened the chat group. Elliott was offering Allen friendly advice: to investigate Belinda¡¯s background before making any advances. But Allen, clearly smitten by meeting a beautiful woman and exchanging messages with a powerful figure like Kristopher, ignored the caution. He stealthily snapped another photo of Belinda behind the wheel¡ªwith Madisyn smiling in the passenger seat¡ªand posted it: ¡°I¡¯m not bothered by her past. As long as she¡¯s single, even divorced, I¡¯m going after her!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze lingered on the word divorced.
At that moment, Cathy¡¯s call came through. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯m feeling better now, but I¡¯m a bit down. Could you join me for a walk?¡±
After a brief pause and a slight squint, Kristopher replied, ¡°I¡¯m on my way to pick you up. Let¡¯s head to the racetrack.¡±
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Chapter 62
?Chapter 62:
By the time Belinda reached her fifth race, the field had thinned from a dozen to just threepetitors. Allen was among them, barely able to conceal his admiration as he watched her maneuver the turns.
When Belinda crossed the finish line and caught her breath, Allen rolled his car over to hers. He climbed out, removed his helmet, and handed her a bottle of water with a broad grin. ¡°You¡¯ve clinched another win. Will you join us for the sixth round as well?¡±
¡°Absolutely,¡± Belinda replied, epting the water.
Off to the side, Madisyn was busy tallying Belinda¡¯s winnings on a tray. ¡°Over the years, I¡¯ve lost plenty at this track,¡± she said. ¡°But today, with my best friend by my side, I n to win it all back.¡±
Laughter rippled through the crowd. ¡°Madisyn, hearing you say that makes us wonder¡ªis Miss Nelson really just your best friend, or did you bring in a ringer to reim your losses?¡±
Madisyn shot the speaker a pointed look. ¡°Come on, we¡¯re all racers here. If she were a pro, wouldn¡¯t you recognize her?¡± The challenger fell silent.
Allenughed, his eyes sparkling. ¡°Belinda¡¯s skill rivals that of a professional, but her slight hesitations betray a bit of rust. It¡¯s more like racing against a retired legend than a current pro.¡± He turned to Belinda with an ingratiating smile. ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, Belinda?¡±
The crowd joined in the teasing. ¡°Hey, Allen¡¯s currying favor with her now¡ªit¡¯s rare to see him like this!¡±
¡°Look at Allen, back from overseas and smooth with thedies!¡± Readplete version only at f?ndnovel
¡°Maybe soon we¡¯ll be calling Miss Nelson Mrs. Wilde!¡±
Allen¡¯s cheeks flushed for the first time. He nced at Belinda, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. ¡°They¡¯re just joking. Please don¡¯t mind them.¡±
With a graceful smile, Belinda screwed the cap back onto her water bottle. ¡°I¡¯m not bothered. But¡¡±
She raised her clear eyes, casting a nce at the young men in the distance. ¡°It really isn¡¯t appropriate for you to associate a high-quality bachelor like Allen with someone who just got divorced like me.¡± Her statement stilled the racetrack in an instant.
Those who had beenughing, including Allen, who stood next to Belinda, all turned to look at her, their eyes wide with shock. The sudden silence was soplete that only the whisper of the wind was audible.
Madisyn pursed her lips, collected the items in front of her on the tray, and moved to stand beside Belinda, patting her shoulder with a touch of sadness. ¡°Why would you bring up your divorce now, of all times?¡±
Belinda offered a wry smile in response. ¡°If I don¡¯t mention it now, it¡¯ll only cause more embarrassment for Allen when it eventuallyes out.¡±
With those words, she gently tapped Allen¡¯s shoulder, climbed back into her race car, and took off for anotherp around the track. Just then, the door at the edge of the track swung open, and Kristopher and Cathy emerged from the changing area, appearing in session.
¡°Kristopher.¡±
Cathy, donned in a charming pink racing suit, walked forward, her hand raised to shield her eyes from the ring sun. ¡°It¡¯s too loud here. I don¡¯t like the vibe¡ Can we find a quieter ce?¡±
Kristopher halted, turned to face her, and frowned. ¡°Didn¡¯t your sister Joyce once tell me how much you adored racing, even saying your skills could rival those of professional drivers? And now you¡¯re bothered by the noise at the track?¡±
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Chapter 63
?Chapter 63:
Cathy¡¯s face drained of color.
In the next moment, she turned away from Kristopher, attempting to hide the anxiety that suddenly overtook her. ¡°Yes¡ yes, I used to¡ I used to love racing, but¡¡± She paused for a moment, collecting herself before meeting his gaze again. Her smile now carried a faint sadness. ¡°But Kristopher, you know about my illness. Since falling sick, my interests and habits have changed. Have you forgotten?¡±
With a forced chuckle, she added, ¡°It¡¯s been ages since I¡¯ve been to a ce like this, so I find it a bit overwhelming¡ but¡¡±
She moved closer to Kristopher, reaching out to steady herself against him. ¡°If this is where you find joy and want to unwind with some racing, I¡¯m here to support you and cheer you on!¡±
She looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with admiration. ¡°A man behind the wheel of a race car does have a certain charm.¡±
Her expression, carefully crafted over time, was the one she had perfected for moments like these.
With a tilt of her head and an innocent gleam in her eyes, she smiled at him.
To Kristopher, in that instant, she was breathtakingly beautiful.
She had believed Kristopher was entirely captivated by her, but his frown and the skeptical look in his eyes caught her off guard. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you five years ago that I¡¯m not a fan of this kind of thrilling sport? Have you forgotten?¡± he asked.
Back then, Kristopher had just suffered an eye injury and had only recently met Cathy. During that time, her sister Joyce had casually mentioned Cathy¡¯s passion for racing and her impressive skill at it.
Knowing that he could no longer participate in racing due to his injury, Kristopher had expressed his disinterest in the sport.
Joyce had teasingly suggested that it didn¡¯t matter, as he could simply support them from the sidelines at the races. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find[f]ovel
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Yearster, once his eyes had recovered, Kristopher had often spoken of wanting to see Cathy race. However, his responsibilities with the Cox Group had consistently dyed those ns.
Now, Kristopher had finally seized the chance to watch Cathy race at the track. Yet, here she was, not only disliking the noisy racetrack atmosphere but also expecting him, someone who had been injured, to race for her amusement?
His gaze on Cathy grew more doubtful.
Rather than receiving an adoring look, Cathy found herself being questioned.
Panicked, she turned away, her eyes darting around the racetrack. She started to speak, but her voice trailed off when she spotted Belinda, d in a racing suit, standing next to Allen and Madisyn.
Belinda was all smiles, chatting animatedly with them as the breeze tousled her long hair, giving her an air of vivacity and charm.
Cathy stared, ensuring it was indeed Belinda.
Her eyes widened in astonishment. Turning to Kristopher, she stammered, ¡°Kristopher, that¡ that is¡¡±
Kristopher followed her stunned gaze, and there stood Belinda.
She was still wearing the racing suit from Allen¡¯s photograph, yet in person, she seemed far more radiant and vibrant than any picture had conveyed.
Belinda leaned in to whisper something to Allen, her smile widening as she yfully pinched his ear.
The light dancing in her eyes and the brilliance of her smile were unlike anything Kristopher had witnessed before.
In that moment, he realized that he might never have truly understood who Belinda was.
The woman he had known as dull and pretentious, always ying the part of the affluentdy, was unexpectedly full of life and charm.
¡°Kristopher!¡±
Allen¡¯s voice echoed across the distance. Spotting Kristopher and Cathy, he beamed and guided Madisyn and Belinda toward them, one hand on each of them. ¡°Come on, let me introduce you to my best friend from childhood!¡±
As they drew nearer, both Belinda¡¯s and Madisyn¡¯s expressions shifted. They nced up simultaneously, their faces souring at the sight of the couple by the entrance. Belinda quickly freed her arm from Allen¡¯s grip, her brow furrowed in displeasure.
Madisyn scoffed and stepped back from Allen, distancing herself. ¡°Meet them? How disgusting!¡± she muttered under her breath.
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Chapter 64
?Chapter 64:
Allen¡¯s smile faltered for a moment.
His brow furrowed as he quickly stepped back to shield Belinda and Madisyn. ¡°Do you¡ bear any ill will toward Mr. Cox and Miss Miller?¡±
Madisyn let out a scoff. ¡°It¡¯s far more serious than just that! Belinda and they¡¡±
¡°Mr. Wilde.¡±
She was interrupted mid-sentence as Kristopher, with Cathy in tow, approached from the opposite direction.
He greeted Allen with a polite yet cool nod before turning his attention to Madisyn and Belinda. ¡°What brings you here?¡±
¡°Why can you be here, but not us?¡±
Cornered, Madisyn rolled her eyes and strode forward, arms folded, positioning her tall, slim figure between Belinda and Kristopher. ¡°You don¡¯t own this ce, do you?¡±
Kristopher ignored Madisyn¡¯s biting tone and shifted his focus to Belinda, his expression neutral. ¡°You know how to race?¡±
Belinda hadn¡¯t intended to engage with Kristopher at all.
As he spoke, she was already reaching behind Madisyn to tug at her sleeve, eager to make a quick exit.
However, the disdain and contempt in his voice were unmistakable and caught her attention.
Belinda shot Kristopher a frosty look. ¡°I picked it up a long time ago.¡±
Kristopher raised an eyebrow. ¡°Oh, really? They have racetracks out in the countryside?¡±
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Belinda¡¯s sneer was sharp. ¡°What, because I¡¯m from the countryside, I must be a simpleton, huh?¡±
¡°I¡¯m just curious, that¡¯s all.¡±
¡°Mr. Cox, perhaps you should invest your energy in more worthwhile pursuits rather than prying into other people¡¯s lives.¡± Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n find?novel
As Belinda and Kristopher sparred verbally, Allen¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Do you two¡ know each other?¡±
Kristopher, who had been pampered all his life, was unustomed to being spoken to so bluntly. Yet here was Belinda, not only standing up to him but bombarding him with words!
What struck Allen the most was theck of anger on Kristopher¡¯s stoic face. He seemedpletely unfazed.
Who was this Belinda, brave enough to challenge Kristopher?
Belinda stated tly, ¡°Mr. Cox and I were friends once, but that¡¯s all in the past. So, no, we don¡¯t really know each other anymore.¡±
After dropping thatment, Belinda turned around and strolled back to her race car, casually checking in with the maintenance team about her car¡¯s condition.
Even with her back to him, she could still feel Kristopher¡¯s icy stare.
¡°Miss Nelson,¡± called Cathy¡¯s clear and gentle voice, just as Belinda was questioning the crew about the engine. ¡°Despite your previous disagreements with Kristopher, that¡¯s all history now. There¡¯s no need to dwell on those memories.¡±
Belinda shot Cathy a baffled look, as though she were staring at someone out of her mind. She then settled back into her race car seat, resuming her conversation with the crew.
As she listened, she stole a nce at Kristopher and Cathy, noting their proximity.
She observed keenly that Cathy had always addressed her simply as Belinda in the past. This time, however, she had used ¡°Miss Nelson.¡±
Did this signify the final nail in the coffin for her rtionship with Kristopher?
The thought spurred her to press the elerator, nning a few celebratoryps once the maintenance check wasplete.
¡°Cathy,¡± Kristopher said, catching Belinda already nestled in her car.
He turned to Cathy. ¡°How about you? Want to take a fewps too?¡±
¡°Miss Miller, you can drive a race car?¡±
Madisyn taunted, her penchant for betting rekindling. ¡°Why not challenge Belinda? I¡¯ll ce a bet with Mr. Cox.¡±
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Chapter 65
?Chapter 65:
Cathy¡¯s eyes widened in shock, and she instinctively wanted to refuse.
¡°No, I¡¡±
Before she could finish her sentence, the man beside her sneered, his lips curling as he reached out and ced his hand on her shoulder, his gaze casually flicking toward Madisyn. ¡°What¡¯s the bet?¡±
Her eyes widened even further. She instinctively looked to Kristopher for support.
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
¡°Cathy,¡± Kristopher said, his brow furrowing slightly. ¡°At the hospital, the doctor mentioned it might be good for you to get back into some sports you enjoy to help ease your anxiety and unease. Racing was something you used to love and excel in.¡±
As he spoke, his eyes shifted coldly toward Belinda, who sat in the race car, absorbed in her phone. A trace of iciness crossed his expression. ¡°Even though she can drive, she¡¯s just an amateur.¡±
Belinda, having grown up in the countryside, likely had little experience with racing. Even if she was driving now, she had probably only recently learned, and she certainly couldn¡¯t match Cathy¡¯s skills.
Gazing into Kristopher¡¯s determined eyes and hearing his convincing tone, Cathy felt tears welling up.
She didn¡¯t know the first thing about racing!
It was all because Joyce had run her mouth too much!
¡°That¡¯s right, Belinda really is an amateur,¡± Madisyn chimed in, barely containing her amusement. She raised an eyebrow, ncing at Cathy. ¡°Since Miss Miller is such a pro, racing against Belinda should be an easy win, right?¡±
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Cathy turned pale.
She wanted to back out, but at that moment, all eyes were on her and Kristopher, who was looking at her expectantly¡
She anxiously bit her lip and nced toward Belinda in the distance. Belinda remained seated in the driver¡¯s seat of the race car, her eyes locked on her phone, her brows knitted together in apparent concern.
Maybe Kristopher was right.
Considering Belinda¡¯s background¡ even if she could race, she was just a newbie.
Despite her unfamiliarity withpetitive racing, Cathy had been driving luxury cars since she was old enough to get a license.
She might not have had the edge over others, but she certainly wouldn¡¯t fall short whenpared to this country bumpkin, Belinda! With this thought, Cathy nodded emphatically. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll race her!¡±
Madisyn¡¯s smile was infectious. ¡°Fantastic! I¡¯ll go see what Belinda wants to bet. Think carefully about what you¡¯ll ask from her when she loses.¡±
With those words, Madisyn walked toward where Belinda was.
Kristopher watched her go, then turned to Cathy with a slight frown. ¡°Just don¡¯t go overboard with the bet.¡±
Cathy followed Madisyn¡¯s path with her eyes and grinned. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Kristopher. I¡¯ve got this.¡±
Allen, overhearing their confident banter, arched an eyebrow. He was intrigued by Belinda¡¯s reputed prowess. Could this Miss Miller truly be as skilled as Belinda?
Inside the race car, Belinda¡¯s expression was serious as she read a message from her doctor.
¡°Miss Nelson, they¡¯ve offered 500 million to secure the entire batch of medicine. If you match their 500 million, they¡¯ll back off. Can you manage that?¡±
The number ¡°500 million¡± seemed to echo in her mind. She sighed deeply, closing her eyes.
For someone like Kristopher, with immense wealth, such a sum was trivial. But for her, it was an overwhelming amount.
It felt as though the universe itself was conspiring against her, denying her the medication she needed to fight her illness, as if hastening her demise¡
¡°Belinda!¡±
The eagerness in Madisyn¡¯s voice snapped her out of her reverie.
She quickly hid her phone and regained herposure. ¡°Yes, what is it?¡±
¡°Kristopher has challenged you to a race with Cathy. The stakes haven¡¯t been set yet,¡± Madisyn exined, eyeing Belinda curiously. ¡°You know you won¡¯t get much from the divorce. Why not use this as a chance to win more from him? Maybe fifty million?¡±
Belinda¡¯s thoughts flickered back to the doctor¡¯s daunting message. She gave a wry smile and responded, ¡°Fifty million seems insignificant, all things considered. Why not 500 million?¡± The source of th?s content is FindN()vel
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Chapter 66
?Chapter 66:
¡°500 million.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly recovered, shing Belinda a thumbs up. ¡°Alright, 500 million it is!¡± she dered.
Without missing a beat, she turned and walked toward Kristopher and Cathy. Belinda, suddenly realizing Madisyn was serious, quickly jumped out of the car to try and intervene. ¡°I was joking! Don¡¯t¡ª¡± But her words were lost as Madisyn continued on.
Before Belinda could finish, Madisyn had already reached Kristopher and Cathy, raising her hand and holding up five fingers with unwavering confidence. ¡°We¡¯ve settled on it. If you lose, you owe Belinda 500 million,¡± she announced.
She gave Kristopher a challenging look. ¡°Well, what do you think? Up for the bet?¡±
Her words hung in the air, dropping into the silence that followed, punctuated only by an audible gasp from the crowd. Behind her, Allen frowned and instinctively pulled on Madisyn¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Madisyn, this is too far.¡±
Today was supposed to be about making up for their past minor gambling losses, the most valuable of which had been Allen¡¯s wristwatch. Now, Madisyn was demanding 500 million from Kristopher. Was she out of her mind, or was it Belinda?
¡°500 million?¡±
Kristopher paused, his gaze shifting indifferently from Belinda, who was approaching from a distance, to Madisyn. ¡°Who came up with this idea, you or her?¡±
Madisyn¡¯s brow furrowed as she instinctively stepped in front of Belinda, blocking her from Kristopher¡¯s view. ¡°Does it really matter who suggested it? Just tell me if you¡¯re in or not.¡±
Kristopher gave a mocking smile. ¡°Why not?¡±
Ga ln ovels . fuels your imagination
¡°Exactly,¡± Cathy added sharply. ¡°It¡¯s not us who are going to lose, after all.¡±
Under normal circumstances, if Cathy were up against Madisyn, who was well-versed in the ways of high society, she might not have been so bold. But Belinda was another story.
It would be quite the feat for the country girl just to start the race car. Belinda had intended to intervene and stop Madisyn, but as she drew closer, she overheard Cathy¡¯s boastful remark. ¡°Miss Thomas, you shouldn¡¯t be concerned about¡ª¡±
Whether we¡¯re brave enough to take this bet. You should be worrying about what you¡¯ll do if your friend loses.¡± A slight smirk yed across Belinda¡¯s lips. Updates are released by F¦Énd£Îovel
She maneuvered past Madisyn and walked straight up to Kristopher and Cathy, her tone casual yet confident. ¡°Then, Miss Miller, I¡¯d like to know. What do you expect me to do if I lose?¡±
As Belinda gestured dramatically, raising her hands, sheughed lightly. ¡°Imagine asking me for 500 million! Even if you auctioned me off, you wouldn¡¯t fetch that amount.¡± Cathy¡¯s smirk broadened.
Stepping forward, Belinda quickly broached the subject of the consequences of losing, confessing she was broke.
Was this not an obvious disy of her reservations? It seemed Belinda was already bracing for defeat.
A satisfied gleam settled on Cathy¡¯s face.
With a strategic cough, she softened her voice to appear kind and empathetic. ¡°Miss Nelson, rx. I realize youe from a modest background, and such an amount isn¡¯t within your reach. There¡¯s no need to involve money to prove a point¡¡±
She arched an eyebrow in victory and proposed, ¡°Let¡¯s set the stakes like this, Miss Nelson. Should I lose and you prevail, Kristopher will honor the agreement and transfer 500 million to you. But if you lose and I win¡¡±
After a thoughtful pause, Cathy delivered her ultimatum. ¡°Then, Miss Belinda, you must pack your bags, leave Nawrin immediately, and vanish from Kristopher¡¯s and my life forever. Do we have a deal?¡±
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Chapter 67
?Chapter 67:
The bustling racetrack suddenly fell silent.
The moment Cathy spoke, not only did Allen look shocked, but even the bystanders around him grew quiet. Their eyes widened as they gazed at the trio, picking up on the undercurrent of tension.
Belinda narrowed her eyes at Cathy, her lips curling into a mischievous smile. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I was hoping for.¡±
¡°Indeed!¡±
Madisyn gave a cold, dismissiveugh. ¡°Do you really think Belinda enjoys yourpany? Let me set this straight. Even if she wins today, she¡¯ll do everything she can to avoid both of you, because she gets disgusted every time she sees you!¡±
With those words, she grabbed Belinda¡¯s arm and marched toward the distant race car.
As he watched the two women walk away, Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened. He shot Cathy a look of reproach, his voice losing the softness it once held. ¡°Why would you suggest such a bet?¡±
Despite Belinda¡¯s biological parents having decent social standing, they favored their adopted daughter over her and refused to recognize her position. Left isted and vulnerable, if not for the support of the Cox family over the years, Belinda would have struggled to survive.
In his eyes, Cathy would definitely win the race against Belinda, so her idea seemed to have gone too far¡
Sensing Kristopher¡¯s annoyance, Cathy bit her lip and whispered, ¡°I was only teasing her, Kristopher. Even if she losester, I wouldn¡¯t actually make her leave Nawrin, would I?¡±
With a knowing smile, she turned to Kristopher. ¡°I made this bet to get Belinda to take thepetition seriously. She adores you, Kristopher. How could she bear the thought of leaving Nawrin and never seeing you again? Surely, she¡¯ll pull out all the stops to defeat me, won¡¯t she?¡± Content originallyes from F¦ÉndNovel
Explore more fiction on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s???????
For the first time, a slight ease touched Kristopher¡¯s features. He cast a nonchnt nce toward Belinda, who was already positioned in the driver¡¯s seat, and chose to remain silent.
¡°Kristopher¡¡± Allen began, his tone reflecting the confusion swirling within him.
He paused, licking his lips, then turned to apanion and asked him to assist Cathy in selecting a car. With a mix of awkwardness and enthusiasm, he beckoned Kristopher to join him in the front row of the spectators¡¯ area. ¡°Madisyn and Belinda are probably just kidding¡ If they win, take my advice. Just hand over 50 million, not 500 million. They wouldn¡¯t know what to do with that much.¡±
Kristopher settled into his seat, crossing his long legs with an air of elegance. His gaze lingered on Allen,zy yet piercing. ¡°Are you in a position to make decisions for them? You seem quite familiar with their matters. Are you really that close to them?¡± he asked slowly.
Allen shed an awkward smile and gestured to his phone. ¡°Didn¡¯t I mention in the group earlier that I¡¯m thinking of pursuing Belinda?¡±
Kristopher, lounging back with his legs propped up, chuckled. He epted a ss of wine from the waiter and took a sip. ¡°Forget it, that¡¯s not going to happen. You might as well give up on that idea now.¡±
Allen¡¯s smile stiffened. ¡°Kristopher, that¡¯s not fair. I believe I can¡ª¡±
¡°Thepetition is starting!¡±
Before Allen could finish his thought, the referee¡¯s announcement carried over from the start line in the distance.
Kristopher shifted his focus toward the far-off racetrack.
Allen sighed, settling down beside Kristopher with a resigned smile, silently turning his attention to the start line.
¡°Belinda.¡±
As the race cars aligned side by side, Cathy lifted her gaze, her expression icy as she stared at Belinda. ¡°Once you lose today, I hope you¡¯ll stop bothering Kristopher.¡±
With Kristopher not beside her, Cathy let go of her usual pretense of kindness. ¡°I¡¯ve never encountered anyone as shameless as you. You know Kristopher isn¡¯t interested, yet you cling to him. Do you realize how much he detests you? He can¡¯t even bear toe home!¡±
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Chapter 68
?Chapter 68: Discover more novels at f?ndnovel
Belinda couldn¡¯t suppress augh. ¡°Did Kristopher tell you that?¡±
Cathy rolled her eyes. ¡°Is that really necessary? We¡¯ve been inseparable since I got back to the country. I¡¯d definitely know if he wasing home or not!¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile remained unfazed by Cathy¡¯s words. ¡°Well, if you¡¯re with him every night, perhaps you could hurry him along with the divorce. I¡¯m actually looking forward to your wedding.¡±
Without waiting for Cathy¡¯s retort, Belinda turned away and slipped on her racing helmet.
Cathy¡¯s gaze hardened, a venomous look shing in her eyes.
Soon after, the official at the starting line signaled for a warm-upp. Belinda¡¯s car leapt forward like a shot arrow.
Meanwhile, Cathy struggled mightily. Not only was her speedcking, but she also veered off the track multiple times.
Witnessing this, Allen furrowed his brow and cautiously approached Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher, maybe we should call it quits? Miss Miller doesn¡¯t seem to have a handle on driving a race car.¡±
In that moment, all of Kristopher¡¯s attention was captivated by Belinda.
She was behind the wheel of the race car, careening around the track with such ir that it was hard to reconcile her image with the typically reserved Mrs. Cox.
Kristopher couldn¡¯t help but wonder when he had missed noticing this sharp, dashing side of Belinda.
¡°Kristopher?¡± Allen called out, noticing his distraction.
When Kristopher didn¡¯t answer, Allen furrowed his brow and nudged him gently. ¡°Kristopher?¡± he repeated, a bit louder this time.
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Roused from his thoughts, Kristopher turned to see Cathy making her rounds on the track.
By now, she had drifted off course three times, each mistake met with a careful correction. Her driving was slow and measured, but she seemed to be gaining her bearings, finally maintaining a steady line around the track.
Watching her, Kristopher¡¯s brow creased in confusion. Cathy had been described by Joyce as almost professional in skill, yet her cautiousps seemed uncharacteristic. Realizing it was just a warm-up, he reasoned that perhaps she was deliberately taking it easy.
Dismissing his concern, Kristopher nced sidelong at Allen. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Are you worried that if Belinda loses, you won¡¯t see her again?¡± he teased.
Allen was momentarily at a loss for words.
After a prolonged silence, Allen let out a weary sigh. ¡°I¡¯m just a bit concerned¡¡±
It seemed Cathy had no grasp of race car driving.
For such a woman to rashly enter apetition¡ Could an ident be imminent?
Soon enough, both carspleted their warm-upps and lined up at the starting line.
The starting lights illuminated sequentially, heightening Allen¡¯s anxiety with each glow.
Then, in an instant, as the lights zed and simultaneously extinguished, Belinda¡¯s car shot forward like an arrow released from a bow, so swiftly that Cathy barely had time to register the start. By the time Cathy realized Belinda had bolted, she was already a speck in the distance.
Frantically, Cathy elerated her car.
Before she could evenplete her firstp, Belinda was finishing her second.
Watching Belinda¡¯s car shrink in the distance, Cathy¡¯s grip on the sweaty steering wheel tightened with nerves.
As Belinda zoomed past her, the distant crowd¡¯s screams and cheers filled the air.
Belinda was just twops shy of victory!
Clenching her teeth and narrowing her eyes, Cathy watched Belinda¡¯s diminishing figure.
When Belindapped her once more, Cathy decisively veered her car toward Belinda¡¯s trajectory.
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Chapter 69
?Chapter 69:
From the moment the warm-upp began, Belinda could tell that Cathy was unfamiliar with racing cars.
It seemed Cathy was figuring out the car¡¯s controls right there on the track.
Belinda couldn¡¯t understand why Kristopher had insisted on Cathypeting against her.
It was reckless to allow someone inexperienced onto the official track. Luckily, it was just her and Cathy out there. If there had been more drivers, an ident would have been inevitable.
Despite herck of fondness for Cathy, Belinda adhered to the unspoken rules of sportsmanship.
These dictated not letting an opponent lose too disgracefully when the skill gap was wide.
So, noticing Cathy trying her best to drive towards her, Belinda naturally eased off the elerator.
She nned to let Cathy overtake her thisp. Winning was a certainty for her, and giving Cathy this small concession seemed harmless.
Unexpectedly, Cathy aimed straight for her car!
By the time Belinda realized Cathy¡¯s intentions and floored it, it was toote.
With a resounding ¡°bang,¡± the cars collided.
Cathy¡¯s vehicle mmed into the back of Belinda¡¯s, sending it spinning out of control and into the track¡¯s side railings.
Belinda¡¯s head whipped forward into the steering wheel, the impact bringing tears to her eyes.
From afar, Madisyn and Allen¡¯s rmed shouts filled the air, mingling with the urgent voices of the emergency team as they coordinated their response.
Belinda strained to raise her head, turning toward themotion.
In the crowd, Madisyn and Allen hurriedly approached her.
By then, Kristopher had already reached Cathy, lifting her from the wreckage of the race car.
He gazed at her with a mix of gentleness and concern.
Even from afar, Belinda could distinctly hear him chastising Cathy.
¡°How could you be so reckless? Are you injured?¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile was tinged with bitterness as she turned away.
It was clear who held his attention.
Despite Cathy crashing into her, all he seemed to notice was Cathy.
¡°Belinda, are you all right?¡±
Madisyn and Allen reached her at that moment.
With eyes brimming with tears, Madisyn inspected Belinda for any injuries. ¡°This is all my fault. I should have seen thising from her! Are you sure you¡¯re not hurt?¡± ?????? ???? find(?)ovel
¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±
Belinda managed a weak smile, but her gaze drifted over Madisyn¡¯s shoulder to where Kristopher was helping Cathy into the ambnce. She knew she shouldn¡¯t look, yet found herself unable to look away.
Madisyn red furiously in the direction of the ident and swore under her breath. ¡°Damn it! Everyone saw Cathy m into your car on purpose. And that jerk didn¡¯t even bother to apologize; he just took her away as if she were the injured party. Ridiculous!¡± Her voice wasced with disbelief and irritation.
As she spoke, the racetrack medics hurried over with a stretcher. Together, Madisyn and Allen carefully lifted Belinda onto it. Allen apanied the medics toward the ambnce, his brow furrowed in thought. He nced over at Madisyn. ¡°Why do you seem to have such a problem with Kristopher? Is there some kind of grudge there?¡±
Madisyn shook her head, exasperation clear in her tone. ¡°No grudge. But Kristopher is Belinda¡¯s ex-husband. Weren¡¯t you aware of that?¡±
Allen stopped in his tracks, clearly taken aback.
He had never considered the possibility of such a connection between Belinda and Kristopher.
It suddenly made sense why Kristopher had responded so quickly to Belinda¡¯s photo in the group chat.
But¡
Confused, he watched as Kristopher helped Cathy into the ambnce and then turned his gaze back to Belinda, now securely on the stretcher. His expression grew increasingly perplexed. Could it be that their divorce was somehow linked to Cathy?
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Chapter 70
?Chapter 70:
Outside the race track, at the hospital.
Following a battery of tests, it wasn¡¯t until the doctors confirmed that Belinda only had a minor bruise on her forehead that Madisyn finally allowed herself to rx. She let out a deep breath. ¡°You nearly gave me a heart attack!¡±
As she spoke, Madisyn wrapped her arms around Belinda in a remorseful embrace. ¡°I had no idea she¡¯d be so vicious, especially not at the racetrack. If I¡¯d known, I never would have let youpete against her. Not for five billion, and certainly not for 500 million!¡±
Tears began to well up in Madisyn¡¯s eyes. ¡°This is all my fault, Belinda! You and Joyce are my only real friends. With Joyce having been gone for years, I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do if I lost you too.¡±
Belinda returned the hug with equal intensity, a bitterness swelling within her.
This was only a minor incident, and yet Madisyn was so distraught. If she ever discovered that Belinda had less than three months left, it would shatter her.
Belinda wiped away a tear, stifled her feelings, and managed a forced smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It was just a minor ident. Nothing could happen to me from that.¡± For original chapters go to Find_Novel(.
¡°A minor ident?¡±
Madisyn¡¯s voice rose with her temper.
She let go of Belinda and balled her hands into fists, her anger palpable. ¡°I had a clear view from the front row. That bitch elerated right into your car when you slowed down! Had she been any less reckless, you might¡¯ve been thrown from the vehicle!¡±
The more she spoke, the fiercer Madisyn¡¯s anger grew. She clenched her teeth and dered, ¡°You¡¯re so lucky that you weren¡¯t seriously injured today. If you had been, I wouldn¡¯t have let her off so easily!¡±
¡°So, we just let her off because Belinda wasn¡¯t injured?¡±
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Allen interjected from the doorway, his eyes narrowing, a chill flickering across them. ¡°What Cathy did sounds like she was either causing a racetrack ident on purpose or attempting murder. Are we supposed to let her off the hook just because she didn¡¯t seed in harming Belinda?¡±
Madisyn shot a dismissive look at Allen. ¡°You know she¡¯s Kristopher¡¯s favorite. Do you really think you can challenge him?¡±
Belinda offered a slight smile. ¡°That¡¯s not necessary.¡±
¡°And why isn¡¯t it necessary?¡±
Allen challenged, his eyes narrowing. ¡°Belinda, you¡¯re just as talented as Cathy. If we showcase you both online, I¡¯m convinced you¡¯d be the crowd favorite!¡±
He paused, ncing at Belinda earnestly. ¡°Cathy¡¯s deeply embedded in the entertainment world, and she¡¯s petrified of negative publicity. You¡¯ve just separated from Kristopher, and now she¡¯s practically attached to him. If I leak the footage of Cathy deliberately bumping into you, not even Kristopher¡¯s influence can shield her.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s eyes went wide. She smacked her thigh in realization. ¡°Exactly, Belinda!¡±
Turning to her, she pressed on. ¡°Kristopher¡¯s been dragging his feet on your divorce, hasn¡¯t he? Use today¡¯s incident as leverage. Threaten to expose the video and tarnish his darling Miss Miller unless he finalizes the divorce promptly.¡±
With a surge of enthusiasm, she grasped Belinda¡¯s hand. ¡°This could simplify your divorce immensely!¡±
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Chapter 71
?Chapter 71:
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed, her voice hesitant. ¡°I¡¯ll try.¡± N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on F¦ÉndNovel
She was acutely aware that following Madisyn¡¯s bold suggestion might elerate her impending divorce.
Yet, she had cherished her three-year marriage to Kristopher. It seemed somewhat pathetic that she might need to depend on his concern for another woman to push through the divorce.
But then again¡
This marriage had been a farce, filled with misery from the very beginning. Clinging to it was futile.
Just then, a knock interrupted her thoughts. The door to the hospital room creaked open.
Standing there was Kristopher¡¯s assistant, Marc, who offered Belinda a sheepish grin. ¡°Mrs. Cox, the boss¡ he¡¯d like to see you.¡±
¡°Mrs. Cox?¡± Madisyn scoffed as she rose to her feet, annoyance shing in her eyes. ¡°Kristopher and Cathy are also in this hospital, aren¡¯t they? Belinda is injured. Whatever they need to say, they can tell me!¡±
She brushed past Marc, making her way to the door.
¡°Miss Thomas¡¡±
Marc extended his hand in a gesture to halt her progress, his tone cautious. ¡°That wouldn¡¯t be appropriate.¡±
His gaze shifted to Belinda, mixed with a trace of sympathy. ¡°Madam, the boss mentioned that if you¡¯re still intent on the divorce, you should meet with him now.¡±
Belinda frowned, clearly bothered.
He was using the divorce to make her meet him and Cathy? The annoyance was evident on her face. Cathy obviously meant a lot to him.
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Rubbing her sore forehead, Belinda pushed herself out of bed. Allen was quick to offer his support. ¡°Take it slow,¡± he cautioned gently.
She dodged his hand with a smile. ¡°I can manage on my own. Thank you.¡±
Allen pulled back, his gesture awkward now. ¡°Do you want me toe with you?¡±
¡°No,¡± she declined softly, still smiling. ¡°Don¡¯t let Kristopher vent his anger on you and your family because of me.¡±
Allen¡¯s expression clouded over, and he remained silent.
Madisyn, ever the protector, moved to Belinda¡¯s side and linked arms with her, ready to offer herpany.
But Belinda gently disengaged herself with a reassuring smile. ¡°Stay here and wait for me. I need to do this alone.¡±
She knew all too well that Madisyn¡¯s fiery temper and impulsiveness could escte things unnecessarily. She didn¡¯t want any conflict.
Madisyn caught on to Belinda¡¯s worries and relented, though her lips formed a pout. ¡°Then at least take your phone. If anything happens, call me. I¡¯ll be right there!¡±
Belinda nodded and directed her gaze at Marc. ¡°Go ahead. Lead the way.¡±
Marc cast a quick look at the bandage wrapping Belinda¡¯s forehead before he started walking. ¡°Are you feeling alright, madam?¡± he inquired.
¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± she replied, stifling a yawn and furrowing her brows. ¡°How¡¯s Cathy? Did she get hurt?¡±
Marc forced a smile, his expression uneasy. ¡°Miss Miller¡ it¡¯splicated.¡±
He fell silent then, guiding Belinda through the hospital corridors to the VIP luxury suite upying the entire top floor.
As they stepped out of the elevator, Belinda picked up the sound of Cathy¡¯s distressed voiceing from the suite. ¡°Kristopher, am I going to die soon? The fear at the racetrack was overwhelming. I even thought of my final words! If I had died there, my regrets would be countless. From now on, I¡¯m going to seize every moment. That way, even if something happens, I¡¯ll have lived fully. You¡¯ll support me, won¡¯t you?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s soothing reply followed. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere. You¡¯re going to live a long, full life¡¡±
Their exchange sent a chill down Belinda¡¯s spine.
Marc, picking up on the tension, raised his voice slightly. ¡°Madam, are you sure you¡¯re not hurt anywhere else?¡±
He had asked this before, but his tone now served to notify those inside of their arrival.
Belinda caught on to Marc¡¯s cue and replied smoothly, ¡°Thank you. I¡¯m really fine.¡±
Their voices ceased immediately as Belinda entered the room.
Momentster, Marc reached the door and knocked.
Inside, Cathyy on the bed, her face pale and weak, while Kristopher sat beside her, peeling an apple.
The disheveled state of his shirt hinted at a recent embrace.
Cathy¡¯s eyes narrowed as Belinda entered. ¡°You and Marc took your time. What kept you, Miss Nelson?¡±
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Chapter 72
?Chapter 72:
At that moment, Cathy was lounging in bed, her head swathed in bandages, exuding an air of superiority reminiscent of a wife scornfully addressing her rival.
Belinda, feeling a twinge of difort, suppressed her emotions and met Cathy¡¯s gaze with cold detachment. ¡°It took me a while to get here. My room is quite a distance from this one.¡±
Her room was on the second floor, while Cathy enjoyed the plush amenities of a VIP suite on the top floor. The elevator ride with Marc had been frustratingly slow, stopping frequently, which added to her dy.
Belinda¡¯sment was meant to justify herteness, yet Cathy¡¯s expression soured. ¡°Miss Nelson, what are you implying? Are you suggesting Kristopher is at fault for not giving you a VIP room as well?¡± She bit her lip and turned toward Kristopher with a look of feigned innocence and hurt. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯ve always said I didn¡¯t need a VIP room. I¡¯m no princess¡ But you insisted on this. Now Miss Nelson seems to think I¡¯m unting my status by being here!¡±
While handing Cathy a peeled apple, Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened as he faced Belinda. ¡°Let¡¯s not create unnecessary drama. Cathy¡¯s injuries are serious, which is why she¡¯s in the VIP suite.¡± He paused, then added, ¡°Should you be seriously ill, I¡¯d do the same for you.¡±
Belinda studied his sharp, resolute features and felt a chill. The Kristopher she had once adored now seemed distant and calcting. The rightful source is find?novel
He had an uncanny ability to read people¡¯s characters from just a few words, even if he couldn¡¯t see their faces.
However, now, despite his vision being clear, he appeared more oblivious and unresponsive than ever before.
He actually took every word Cathy uttered at face value, without a second thought.
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Had he paused to consider, he might have realized that Belinda¡¯s tone wasn¡¯tced with sarcasm or jealousy toward Cathy.
Taking a deep breath, Belinda fixed her gaze coldly on Kristopher. ¡°Mr. Cox, you¡¯ve threatened me with divorce just to bring me here to say these words? I¡¯ve listened. If there¡¯s nothing more, I¡¯d prefer to return to my rest. Please transfer the 500 million to my ount and meet me in court for the divorce proceedings tomorrow.¡±
With that deration, Belinda inhaled sharply and turned to leave.
¡°Belinda!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s voice, deep and resonant, halted her in her tracks. ¡°Don¡¯t you think you owe Cathy an apology for the injuries you caused her?¡±
Belinda stopped, then slowly turned to gaze at Cathy, who was reclining on the bed.
Despite the circumstances, Cathy¡¯s cheeks bore a healthy flush, and she seemed in better spirits than Belinda. Even the bandage wrapping her head was less noticeable than Belinda¡¯s.
The ident today happened because Cathy¡¯s car collided with hers. Why should she be the one to apologize?
Cathy seemed to pick up on what Belinda was thinking. She bit her lip, and tears started to stream down her face. ¡°Kristopher, let it go. Miss Nelson isn¡¯t going to apologize. She won¡¯t acknowledge that she slowed down on purpose, causing my ident¡ If you push her to apologize, she¡¯ll just me me¡ please, just drop it¡¡±
Cathy¡¯s sobs deepened, her shoulders trembling. ¡°I don¡¯t need her apology. If Miss Nelson doesn¡¯t feel like saying it, that¡¯s okay. My feelings aren¡¯t important. I¡¯ll get over it after I cry it out¡¡±
With those words, the apple she was holding dropped to the floor with a loud thud. Cathy then fell back onto the bed, her body shaking and overwhelmed by her tears.
¡°Cathy!¡±
Kristopher hurried to her side, cradling her in his arms to offerfort. He then turned to Belinda, his voice stern. ¡°Apologize to Cathy, now!¡±
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Chapter 73
?Chapter 73:
Watching the couple before her, Belinda felt that she should feel sadness or anger.
Yet, having long abandoned any expectations of Kristopher, she now experienced only a profound numbness.
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
Cathy, after a spell of tears and realizing Belinda had no intention of apologizing, feigned recovery. Nestled in Kristopher¡¯s embrace, she wept.
¡°Please don¡¯t be harsh on Miss Nelson. Who would willingly confess and apologize for their faults?¡±
Her eyes, filled with a sorrowful plea, turned toward Belinda. ¡°Miss Nelson, I know you¡¯ve always misunderstood me, but there¡¯s truly nothing going on between Kristopher and me¡¡± As she spoke, she edged even closer to Kristopher.
Belinda scoffed, her gaze heavy with scorn as she eyed Cathy. ¡°Miss Miller, you¡¯re wrapped in the arms of my still-husband, and yet you im I¡¯ve misunderstood you, that there¡¯s nothing between you?¡± The irony of the situation was stark.
Cathy¡¯splexion nched under Belinda¡¯s cutting words. She hastily disentangled herself from Kristopher, tears welling up once more.
¡°Miss Nelson, please don¡¯t think that way. Kristopher and I¡¡±
¡°I regard Cathy merely as a sister,¡± Kristopher interjected, a trace of irritation visible in his demeanor. ¡°Belinda, you¡¯re letting your fears get the better of you.¡±
¡°I no longer care about your rtionship,¡± Belinda replied, massaging her temples. Her weary eyes lifted to meet Kristopher¡¯s gaze. ¡°Just make sure you¡¯re at the court tomorrow morning to finalize our divorce.¡±
She turned toward the door, her steps firm and decisive. Pausing with her hand on the doorknob, Belinda looked back.
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¡°By the way, the racetrack has surveince cameras. I¡¯d check the footage if I were you. See for yourself whether I intentionally slowed down to set up your Miss Miller, or if she actually sped up and swerved out of herne to hit me. And remember, the 500 million needs to be transferred to my ount.¡±
Cathy, who had been silently fuming, couldn¡¯t contain her outrage any longer as Belinda exited. Left in the room, she burst out to Kristopher, ¡°How can she use me of such a thing? Why would I purposely crash into her? It makes no sense! She¡¯s just sore about losing and tried to cause a crash herself. Oh, it makes my stomach turn with anger¡¡±
Cathy¡¯s mention of her stomach pain caused Belinda to feel a strange pang in her own stomach.
A few minutester, Belinda returned to her room on the second floor via the elevator, finding only Madisyn there, waiting for her.
¡°Allen had to rush off. Something urgent came up with his family,¡± Madisyn exined quickly as she approached Belinda. She grasped Belinda¡¯s hand with a look of concern. ¡°How did everything go? I hope those jerks didn¡¯t trouble you too much?¡±
Belinda shook her head. ¡°Kristopher insisted that I apologize to Cathy.¡±
¡°Apologize?!¡± Madisyn¡¯s expression morphed into one of disbelief. ¡°Cathy was the one who sped up and hit you, and that fool Kristopher wants you to apologize? He really thinks he can walk all over you!¡±
Belinda shut the door behind her and began to change out of her racing gear into the casual outfit Madisyn had brought. A slight smile crossed her face. ¡°I was always too amodating with him.¡±
For thest three years, to keep Kristopher from embarrassment and to uphold the image of a graceful, dignified socialite, she had habitually epted the me and offered apologies with a smile, regardless of the circumstances.
Her continual yielding probably led Kristopher to devalue her apologies, believing she wouldply with whatever he demanded.
¡°Belinda¡¡±
Madisyn¡¯s expression turned stern. ¡°You didn¡¯t really apologize to Cathy, did you?¡±
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Belinda, having changed into her casual clothes, stuffed her racing suit into her bag. ¡°I¡¯m not that old Belinda anymore.¡±
Madisyn exhaled a sigh of relief. ¡°That¡¯s the attitude!¡±
She was cut off mid-sentence as Belinda¡¯s phone rang.
The caller was Marlene from Peace Hospital.
Typically, Marlene texted because Belinda preferred to keep her health issues confidential. A call instead of a text signaled something critical.
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed. She signaled to Madisyn with a hand gesture and retreated to the stairwell to take the call. ¡°Dr. Reid?¡±
¡°Miss Nelson,¡± Marlene¡¯s anxious voice came through. ¡°The man trying to purchase your medication has just called. He¡¯s nning to administer the drug to his girlfriend without dy. He¡¯s asking if you¡¯ve prepared the 500 million and is requesting a meeting.¡±
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Chapter 74
?Chapter 74:
Belinda¡¯s knuckles whitened as she gripped her phone tightly. ¡°Didn¡¯t they promise to give me some time?¡± she muttered under her breath.
Just earlier that day, they had asked Marlene to consult her about a 500 million dor proposal.
Now, mere hourster, they were pressuring her for the money and insisting on a meeting.
¡°Something¡¯se up. I heard his girlfriend is really stressed out¡¡±
Marlene¡¯s voice wavered with concern on the other end of the phone. ¡°Miss Nelson, I truly apologize. The hospital is really pushing me hard. I¡¯ve been on your side since the beginning. Believe me, if there were any other way, I wouldn¡¯t be on this call.¡±
Belinda inhaled deeply. ¡°Dr. Reid, you¡¯re not at fault here.¡± Marlene was merely executing someone else¡¯s orders.
Her voice softened further upon hearing Belinda¡¯s gracious reply. ¡°The hospital is being unfair¡ For him, 500 million might be trivial, but for you, Miss Nelson¡¡±
¡°Dr. Reid,¡± Belinda cut in gently, pausing for a beat. ¡°The patient¡ Is her condition dire?¡±
Caught off guard, Marlene hesitated before answering, her voice strained. ¡°Why would you ask that?¡±
Belinda replied with serene rity, ¡°We¡¯re both battling terminal cancer. It¡¯s only right that we support each other. Though my own cancer is progressing rapidly and is particrly aggressive¡¡±
She exhaled slowly, gazing out at the dimming evening sky through the bleak window. ¡°If her need is truly urgent, I¡¯m prepared to offer her one of my treatment doses.¡±
Marlene¡¯s tone became earnest. ¡°But Miss Nelson, this therapy requires four doses to be effective. Giving away one will reduce your recovery odds by 25%.¡±
g ? ln¦Ò ¦Í?? ?s, your storytelling home
¡°It¡¯s okay. My prospects were never good to begin with.¡±
Belinda hesitated, then said firmly, ¡°I¡¯m not going to the hospital or meeting with them. Tell them I¡¯m still working on gathering the 500 million. If their need is truly urgent, I¡¯ll provide one dose. But it won¡¯t be without cost. They need to donate 100 million to the International Cancer Research Foundation.¡± Checktest chapters at F?ndNovel
Marlene sighed deeply after a lengthy pause. ¡°Alright. Belinda, you really are a good person.¡±
Belinda offered a smile at the praise. ¡°I like to think so.¡± She hung up the phone and went back to her room.
Madisyn was by the window, gazing outward.
Belinda joined her, adopting the same posture, and looked out at the darkening scene.
All that could be seen were the red taillights of an ambnce fading into the distance.
¡°What are you looking at?¡± Belinda inquired.
Startled by her sudden question, Madisyn turned around and shot Belinda a yful re. ¡°You scared me!¡±
She gestured towards the fading ambnce. ¡°Cathy and Kristopher are inside. The nurse mentioned that Cathy wasining of severe pain, so Kristopher didn¡¯t waste a moment. He¡¯s had her transferred to Peace Hospital. They¡¯ve just left.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s tone soured as she continued, unable to mask her contempt. ¡°Peace Hospital specializes in rare and terminal conditions. He¡¯s taken his beloved Cathy there. What is he thinking?¡±
She nudged Belinda gently. ¡°Could it be that Cathy¡¯s condition is terminal?¡±
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Chapter 75
?Chapter 75:
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed as she watched the ambnce vanish into the darkness.
Something about Kristopher rushing Cathy to Peace Hospital reminded her of the phone call from Marlene.
The man desperate to purchase her medication had mentioned that his girlfriend was in acute distress and needed the drugs urgently. Now, Kristopher was hurriedly taking Cathy¡ªwho also imed to be distressed¡ªto the same hospital.
Could it be that Kristopher was the man Marlene mentioned?
The idea flickered through her mind, but Belinda quickly dismissed it. She knew all too well the grim reality ofte-stage stomach cancer. Cathy, whom she had seen looking healthy and vibrant in the VIP ward, certainly didn¡¯t share her affliction.
¡°Belinda?¡±
Madisyn¡¯s voice pulled her from her thoughts, waving a hand in front of her face. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±
Belinda snapped out of her reverie with a smile. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing.¡± She bent down to pick up her bag, which held her racing suit. ¡°Did you figure out how much I earned today at the races?¡±
Madisyn¡¯s face brightened. ¡°Absolutely! You pulled in a whopping 3,548,000! I¡¯ve lost millions to those kids over the years, but today we got it all back!¡±
She slung an arm around Belinda¡¯s shoulders as they started to leave. ¡°If only Cathy hadn¡¯t yed dirty, we¡¯d be counting over 500 million plus our winnings today!¡±
Belinda returned the smile but steered away from the sensitive subject. ¡°With all this cash, what¡¯s the n for celebrating tonight?¡±
Madisyn shed a mischievous smile. ¡°We¡¯re going to¡ rx!¡± With a firm grip, she pulled Belinda out of the hospital and into their waiting car.
g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s?c?m brings endless adventures
Thirty minutester, they pulled up to a renowned massage parlor.
Belinda stepped out and chuckled upon seeing the sign. ¡°I thought by ¡®rx¡¯ you meant hitting a bar or something.¡±
Madisyn just shook her head. ¡°Bars aren¡¯t the only ces to unwind. Plus, you¡¯ve been behind the wheel all day. You need a real break. Trust me, this ce has some of the best masseuses around. You¡¯re going to love it.¡±
With augh, Belinda allowed herself to be ushered inside.
Unfortunately, they hadn¡¯t booked in advance, and Madisyn¡¯s favorite masseuses were all fully booked.
Madisyn was ready to leave, but Belinda, too tired to move again, suggested they give two apprentices a try.
The session didn¡¯t go well. The apprentice assigned to Belinda was too rough, leaving her with bruises on her arms and red marks along her neck.
The owner of the massage parlor apologized deeply and offered them aplimentary session to make amends.
As they settled back into the car, Madisyn nced over at Belinda¡¯s red marks with a worried expression. ¡°We¡¯re definitely noting back here! Does it hurt a lot?¡± Chapters first released on findnovel
Belinda grimaced and adjusted her cor to hide the marks. ¡°Do these look like hickeys?¡±
¡°They kinda do,¡± Madisyn replied, eyeing them closely. ¡°Make sure you cover those up tomorrow when you go to finalize your divorce from Kristopher. Knowing that jerk, he¡¯d jump at the chance to im you were unfaithful!¡±
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Chapter 76
?Chapter 76:
After they left the massage parlor, Madisyn took Belinda out for hotpot, insisting on the extra spicy vor she knew Belinda once adored.
As soon as the steaming dish arrived, Madisyn eagerlydled some onto Belinda¡¯s te, her face bright with a smile. ¡°Go on, Belinda, dig in. You¡¯ve always been a fan of spicy food. It¡¯s been ages since you¡¯ve had some, right?¡±
Belinda cast a wary nce at the fiery broth simmering before her.
Spicy meals had been her favorite.
However, her rapidly worsening stomach cancer might have been exacerbated by her penchant for such fiery foods.
In times of distress, particrly those caused by Kristopher or the harshness of the Cox family, she sought sce in these scalding meals with Madisyn.
They often said that spice was a form of pain. Belinda used it to dull the ache of Kristopher¡¯s aloofness and the Cox family¡¯s relentless cruelty.
But after her diagnosis, she hadn¡¯t dared to touch anything remotely spicy.
Belinda realized that Madisyn, thinking she was merely upset about the events of the afternoon, had brought her here to lift her spirits. Touched by her friend¡¯s gesture, she bit her lip, her eyes meeting Madisyn¡¯s. ¡°Madisyn, thank you.¡±
¡°For what? Come on, eat!¡± Madisyn cheerfully urged, continuing to fill Belinda¡¯s bowl. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you eating? Something wrong?¡±
With her friend¡¯s concern washing over her, Belinda managed a weak smile and forced herself to eat a few mouthfuls. ¡°I¡¯m just not very hungry, that¡¯s all.¡±
After nibbling a bit, she feigned a phone call and excused herself to the restroom.
Once there, she hastily spat out the food and doubled over in pain, clutching her abdomen as she knelt by the toilet.
From her position near the sink, Belinda caught the strains of a familiar female voice. ¡°Maggie, didn¡¯t you promise that Cathy would bring Kristopher along for hotpot tonight? I¡¯ve already told our ssmates they¡¯d be joining us. They gave me such skeptical looks, as if I were making it up!¡±
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed as she recognized the voice. It was Helen.
Maggie¡¯s voice, icy and sharp, cut through the air. ¡°Cathy¡¯s in the hospital. My brother¡¯s tied up looking after her, so they¡¯re noting tonight.¡±
¡°Hospital? But Cathy was perfectly fine at the house earlier today,¡± Helen responded, puzzled.
Maggie scoffed dismissively. ¡°It¡¯s all Belinda¡¯s fault. I heard that my brother took Cathy to the racetrack in the suburbs to unwind, and who do they run into but Belinda? She can¡¯t even drive properly but insisted on racing with Cathy, leading to a crash!¡±
¡°Really? How is Cathy doing?¡± Helen¡¯s concern was evident in her voice.
¡°She¡¯s alright,¡± Maggie sighed, a trace of relief in her tone. ¡°I just had a video chat with her. She¡¯s got a minor scratch on her forehead, but nothing that¡¯ll interfere with her engagement ceremony with my brother next week.¡±
Hearing this, Helen let out a relieved sigh. ¡°That¡¯s good to hear. An engagement is such a significant moment in a woman¡¯s life. Kristopher has been nning it meticulously. He booked the venue and the cake over a month ago to ensure avish ceremony for Cathy. It would have been disastrous if Belinda had messed it up.¡±
As the voices of the two women faded into the distance, Belinda remained huddled in the restroom, the ache in her stomach growing sharper. Newest update provided by Find¡ïNovel
Because of his recent hesitations about their conversations on divorce, she had started to believe Kristopher wasn¡¯t keen on separating. But now, the truth hit her. He had been nning to propose to Cathy all along, having reserved the venue and cake weeks in advance. It dawned on her that Kristopher had been deceiving her all this time.
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Chapter 77
?Chapter 77:
Hoping not to rm Madisyn, Belinda took some medication in the restroom, waiting until the difort in her stomach eased a bit before heading back to their table.
¡°You were gone for a while. What happened?¡± Madisyn inquired, her expression etched with concern as she peered at Belinda. ¡°Is it your stomach again? Do we need to get you to a hospital, or maybe find a different ce to eat?¡±
Belinda caught sight of Madisyn, who was diving enthusiastically into her spicy meal and sweating slightly. Shaking her head gently, she replied, ¡°Keep eating. I¡¯ll pick up somethingter on.¡±
With her condition, food choice hardly mattered, and she didn¡¯t want to dampen Madisyn¡¯s spirits. ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find(?)ovel
A hint of guilt crossed Madisyn¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Belinda. I forgot about your stomach issues¡ I just thought we could¡ª¡±
¡°Hey, just enjoy your meal,¡± Belinda cut in, her voice light with amusement. ¡°Since when did you be so mushy?¡±
Madisyn rolled her eyes, a yful pout forming. ¡°I¡¯m just concerned, that¡¯s all.¡±
She resumed eating, then added, ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll swing by and get you some medicine afterward.¡±
As Belinda sipped her tea, a smile graced her lips while she watched Madisyn tackle her food.
Her mind wandered to the days when she, Madisyn, and Joyce used to hang out andugh together.
They were as close as sisters back then.
But everything changed five years ago after Joyce¡¯s ident, and now her own health was declining.
Read more chapters at g?ln¦Ò¦Í??ls
In a few months, Madisyn could be on her own.
This somber thought made Belinda stare at Madisyn with a mncholy gaze. ¡°Madisyn.¡±
Madisyn looked up, a mix of confusion and concern in her eyes. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±
Seeing Madisyn brimming with vitality, Belinda found herself unable to voice her sorrows.
Instead, she mustered a smile and offered a napkin, saying, ¡°You¡¯ve got a bit of food on your face.¡±
Madisyn casually set the napkin aside, replying, ¡°I¡¯ll clean up when I¡¯m finished. Let¡¯s not waste a good napkin now!¡±
Belinda chuckled. Just as she was about to respond, a sweet and familiar voice called out from a distance, ¡°Miss Nelson, Miss Thomas, what a surprise to see you here.¡±
Recognizing the voice immediately, Belinda looked up toward its source.
There was Cathy, d in white, delicately linked arm-in-arm with Kristopher, offering them a sly smile.
Belinda arched an eyebrow.
It seemed Helen had not taken kindly to being ignored and had decided to call them over.
However¡ Cathy looked radiant and healthy, hardly the image of someone who had been rushed to Peace Hospital just hours earlier.
Catching Belinda¡¯s gaze, Kristopher¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Your gum is bleeding. Are you sure you should be eating something as spicy as hotpot?¡±
Madisyn scowled, grabbed another napkin, and wiped her mouth defiantly. ¡°We¡¯ll eat what we please. It¡¯s really none of your business.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze lingered coldly on Belinda. ¡°Are you trying to make yourself sicker?¡±
He knew well enough about her recent miscarriage and this morning¡¯s gum bleeding.
Eating spicy food now¡ªwas she even taking care of herself?
Belinda lowered her gaze, picked up a piece of meat, and feigned interest in her meal. ¡°Mr. Cox, are you concerned about me? There you stand, holding onto your new love, yet worrying over your ex-wife. Doesn¡¯t that make Miss Miller jealous?¡±
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Chapter 78
?Chapter 78:
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed as he addressed Belinda with evident frustration. ¡°I¡¯ve told you before, Cathy and I aren¡¯t involved the way you think we are!¡±
A smirk flickered across Belinda¡¯s face, hidden from view.
Despite having arranged the venue for his proposal to Cathy a month in advance, he had the nerve to stand there and deny any significant rtionship with her?
With this thought, Belinda¡¯s lips twisted into a cynical smile. ¡°Really, Kristopher, it¡¯s like they say, ¡®birds of a feather flock together.¡¯ You and Miss Miller have yed your parts for so long that you¡¯ve be quite the actors.¡±
The temperature between them seemed to drop several degrees after herment.
Kristopher¡¯s gaze intensified, his presence overwhelming, making the air around them feel thick and heavy.
¡°Kristopher, please, calm down,¡± Cathy intervened, her voice soft and trembling as she clutched his arm tighter. ¡°Miss Nelson might still be upset from what happened at the racetrack earlier today¡¡±
His temper ignited at the mention. ¡°She nearly caused you harm! What right does she have to be upset?¡±
Cathy bit her lip, her voice even lower, a tremble betraying her emotions. ¡°Maybe, despite my assurances that I don¡¯t need an apology anymore¡ Miss Nelson is still hurt from you insisting she apologize to me earlier today¡¡±
She nibbled her lower lip, sorrowfully letting go of Kristopher¡¯s arm. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯m heading upstairs to find Maggie and Helen¡ You might want to speak with Miss Nelson. Perhaps she¡¯ll change her tune without me around¡¡±
Her eyes, brimming with tears, met Belinda¡¯s. ¡°Miss Nelson, I realize there are some misunderstandings between us, and you¡¯re not fond of me. I don¡¯t want to bother you. Even though your divorce from Kristopher is finalized tomorrow, there was a time you were together. There¡¯s no need to be enemies.¡±
With those words, she turned and made her way to the stairs. Behind her, Madisyn scoffed, ¡°Did Miss Miller injure her leg in the car ident earlier today? Why is she moving so sluggishly?¡±
Your next story starts here: g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s
Overhearing this, Belinda raised her eyes, observing Cathy¡¯s slow exit. It seemed she was dramatizing her plight, with no real intention of leaving.
¡°If Miss Miller isn¡¯t leaving, then we should.¡±
Belinda stood abruptly, slipped into her coat, and snatched her bag from the back of the chair. ¡°I have nothing more to say to you. Just make sure you¡¯re at the courthouse tomorrow morning.¡±
With those final words, she turned and swiftly headed for the door.
Madisyn shot Kristopher a frosty look. ¡°Enjoy your time with Miss Miller!¡± she snapped, grabbing her bag and hurrying to catch up with Belinda.
Kristopher remained still, his gaze fixed on the departing figures of the two women, his eyes narrowing with obvious displeasure.
¡°Kristopher.¡± Cathy¡¯s voice broke through the growing distance of their footsteps. She turned to face him, concern etched on her face. ¡°It seems Miss Nelson still harbors some misunderstandings about us¡ Should you go after her to clear things up?¡±
As she spoke, she reached up to dab at her tears. ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone thinking that your divorce¡ is my fault.¡±
Kristopher watched until Belinda was no longer in sight, then turned his attention back to Cathy, his expression somber. After a moment, he shook his head and handed her a tissue. ¡°There¡¯s no need for exnations. Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s not because of you.¡± Checktest chapters at F¦ÉndNovel
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Chapter 79
?Chapter 79:
¡°Ugh, they¡¯re everywhere, so annoying!¡± Madisyn grumbled as she slid behind the wheel of her car after leaving the restaurant. She mmed the door shut and let out an angry sigh.
Belinda, resting against the passenger seat, looked out into the distance thoughtfully. ¡°This spot is really popr. It¡¯s only natural for people to gather here,¡± she remarked.
Madisyn scoffed, irritation clear in her tone. ¡°But do they have to be glued together like that, constantly holding hands? It¡¯s disgusting!¡± Content originallyes from find?novel
Outside, the evening had brought life to the streets, now aglow under the warm lights of newly lit streemps. Couples walked by, their fingers intertwined.
Belinda watched them, a gentle smile ying on her lips. ¡°They¡¯re in love. It¡¯s natural for them to want to stay close,¡± she exined softly.
Madisyn frowned, turning towards Belinda with a mix of confusion and surprise. ¡°How can you be soposed about this?¡±
Belinda¡¯s voice remained even, detached as though discussing strangers rather than her own husband and the other woman.
¡°I¡¯ve moved past it.¡± She turned to Madisyn, her smile bright and seemingly untroubled. ¡°They¡¯re probably gearing up for their engagement next week. Kristopher reserved the venue and ordered the cake a month ago.¡±
Madisyn stared at her, eyes wide in shock.
After a moment, she swore under her breath, ¡°Damn it! So Kristopher was plotting to propose to Cathy while she was still overseas? He¡¯s been wanting a divorce for ages, hasn¡¯t he?¡±
Belinda exhaled, a weight lifting from her chest. ¡°Yes. He made up his mind a long time ago.¡±
A month earlier, Kristopher had been busy nning his engagement ceremony with Cathy.
Your escape begins at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s
At the same time, Belinda had been overjoyed at the news of her pregnancy. She had been consulting with doctors tirelessly, seeking ways to ensure the well-being of their child given her deteriorating health.
How naive she had been!
While she joyfully prepared for their future child, Kristopher was orchestrating avish proposal for his new love.
¡°Belinda, I¡¯m so relieved you¡¯ve moved on!¡± Madisyn broke the ensuing silence, gripping Belinda¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°It would be excruciating otherwise!¡±
Belinda turned towards her friend and offered a weary smile. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve moved on.¡±
Her heart had been broken too many times, and her dreams dashed just as often.
Now, she felt nothing but numbness, no longer caring about the past.
After pausing, she inhaled deeply. ¡°Take me home, please.¡±
Madisyn nodded, quickly withdrawing her hand to start the car. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s forget those two awful people and head home. Remember, Fluffy¡¯s waiting for you!¡±
Belinda offered a faint smile, choosing to remain silent for the rest of the ride.
Soon, they pulled up in front of Belinda¡¯s rental home.
Madisyn didn¡¯t leave immediately after dropping Belinda off. Instead, she went into the room with Belinda and stayed a bit longer under the guise of ying with the cat, all the while keeping an eye on Belinda¡¯s state.
Convinced that Belinda seemed fine and unaffected by her earlier encounter with Kristopher and Cathy, Madisyn finally rxed and left. But what she didn¡¯t realize was¡
As soon as the door shut behind her, the smile on Belinda¡¯s face vanished.
A secondter, she gripped her chest, contorting in agony on the couch.
Her cat, Fluffy, sensed something was amiss and nudged her repeatedly, trying to offerfort.
Back at the restaurant, Belinda had forced herself to eat some spicy beef to maintainposure in front of Kristopher and Cathy. It was only two pieces. She thought it wouldn¡¯t be much of an issue. However, she hadn¡¯t anticipated the severe stomach pain that followed.
It felt like it might be the end for her.
Gripped by unbearable pain and blurred vision, Belinda instinctively pressed the emergency contact button on her phone and dialed a number¡
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Chapter 80
?Chapter 80:
¡°Beep¡!¡± The line buzzed with several busy signals before the call finally connected.
¡°Hello?¡± A man¡¯s voice, cold and detached, answered from the other side. ¡°Belinda Nelson.¡±
Belinda clutched her phone tighter, parting her lips to respond, but a sharp pang of pain silenced her words.
After an awkward pause, the man¡¯s voice grew edgy with impatience. ¡°You stayed silent when we met earlier. What makes you call now?¡±
Summoning her strength, Belinda uttered,
Before she could say more, Maggie¡¯s bubbly voice burst through from the background. ¡°Who¡¯s next? Cathy, it¡¯s your turn!¡±
Then came Helen¡¯s chuckling tone. ¡°Cathy, who¡¯s your choice for a partner?¡±
¡°Do we really need to ask? She¡¯s definitely choosing my brother. Who else would Cathy kiss?¡± Maggie interjected.
Amidst theirughter, Cathy¡¯s yful protest filled the air. ¡°Oh, stop it! Do I have to y? I don¡¯t want to kiss anyone in front of everybody¡ Kristopher, what do you think?¡±
The surrounding noise suddenly fell silent at hermand.
Belinda sensed Kristopher¡¯s presence diminish as he closed the door of the private room and left.
In the newfound silence, Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed, his voiceced with annoyance. ¡°Belinda, can¡¯t hear you. Speak up!¡±
Belinda released a mocking chuckle and ended the call abruptly.
No more words were necessary.
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For three long years, Kristopher had been her everything, her sole emergency contact.
Should she make it through this crisis, her first act would be to erase him entirely from her life, starting with her emergency contacts. Just then, her phone erupted with the ringtone she had assigned to Kristopher.
With her eyes shut tight, shey on the floor, clutching Fluffy, as the ringtone yed on repeat, unanswered.
Time passed indeterminately before the ringing ceased.
Fluffy squirmed free from her embrace, leapt onto the coffee table, and sent a cup of tea crashing to the floor.
The tea, originally poured for Madisyn, had long since cooled.
The spill of cold tea drenched Belinda, jolting her back to reality. She pushed herself off the floor, offered a weary smile to the ragdoll cat, and murmured, ¡°Thank you, Fluffy.¡±
She hesitated for a long moment before finally reaching for her phone. After scrolling through her contacts, she selected Darren¡¯s name and pressed call.
The phone was answered almost instantly.
Background chatter from a lively social gathering reached her ears. Darren was clearly at a party.
He excused himself from the private room. ¡°Belinda, it¡¯s quitete. What¡¯s up?¡±
Belinda nervously bit her lip. ¡°Darren¡¡±
¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Hearing the strain in her voice, Darren¡¯s demeanor shifted to one of concern. ¡°Where are you right now?¡±
¡°I¡¯m¡ I¡¯m at home.¡±
¡°Stay there. I¡¯m on my way!¡± Darren said firmly, ending the call before dashing out, not bothering to bid farewell to his colleagues. As he hurried down the stairs, he identally bumped into a man. Original content can be found at fin?novel
¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Darren muttered hastily, barely slowing his pace. However, the man grabbed his arm, stopping him. ¡°Mr. Wright, such a rush? Watch your step.¡±
Darren stopped, recognizing the voice. ¡°Kristopher?¡±
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Chapter 81
?Chapter 81:
Kristopher crossed his arms and sneered, his gaze cold, as he confronted Darren. ¡°Calling the boss of a partnerpany by their first name? Is that the kind of behavior yourpany promotes?¡±
Startled from his worry about Belinda, Darren lowered his gaze, adopting a more submissive stance. ¡°Mr. Cox, there¡¯s an urgent matter I need to attend to, and I apologize if I¡¯ve stepped out of line.¡±
He attempted to step past Kristopher to continue downstairs, but Kristopher blocked him again. ¡°What¡¯s this urgent matter? Does it involve Belinda?¡±
At the mention of Belinda¡¯s name, Darren involuntarily held his breath.
After a short pause, he managed a strained smile. ¡°Mr. Cox, surely you¡¯re joking. I haven¡¯t been in contact with Belinda for years. Though we¡¯ve reconnected recently, we¡¯re hardly close. Why would she reach out to me sote at night?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression softened slightly with Darren¡¯s exnation.
¡°True. To her, I¡¯m the only one.¡± Darren¡¯splexion grew paler.
He forced an awkward smile. ¡°Mr. Cox, was there anything else you needed? If not, I really should be on my way.¡±
Kristopher finally pulled his hand back, his expression one of satisfaction. ¡°If you end up talking to Belinda, tell her to quit the games, like those silent phone calls. They¡¯re tiresome.¡±
With those words, he brushed past Darren and ascended the stairs. Darren paused to collect himself before exiting the restaurant with purposeful strides.
As he drove towards Belinda¡¯s residence, Darren¡¯s mind was a whirlwind of confusion, echoing with Kristopher¡¯s words.
It seemed Kristopher suggested Belinda had indeed tried to contact him but had remained silent during the call.
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This indicated that, in her moment of crisis, Belinda had reached out to Kristopher.
Yet, he had dismissed her silent plea for help as a mere annoyance.
Clutching the steering wheel tightly, Darren¡¯s concern deepened.
He arrived quickly at Belinda¡¯s rented apartment, where he used a spare key to enter. The scene that met his eyes stopped him in his tracks. Belinday on the floor, small and fragile.
Her face was ashen, stark against the pale wall behind her, her body possibly soaked from a cold sweat or a spilled tea.
The sight clenched Darren¡¯s heart painfully, as if it were being squeezed by an unseen hand.
He surged forward and gathered Belinda in his arms. ¡°Hang on, Belinda. I¡¯m getting you to the hospital right now!¡±
Elsewhere, the private room at the restaurant buzzed with energy. Maggie and Helen, along with a few other girls, yfully teased Cathy and Kristopher.
With a shy smile, Cathy edged closer to Kristopher. ¡°Stop it, you guys. You¡¯re making me turn red¡¡±
Kristopher, remaining seated, managed a smile in response to the teasing but scowled at his phone.
His phone screen showed a WhatsApp conversation with Belinda. Theirst exchange had been the morning she miscarried, over two weeks ago. Get full chapters from Find1Novel
Without realizing it, the woman who used to bombard him with dozens, even hundreds, of messages every day hadn¡¯t sent him a single message in over two weeks.
After a prolonged hesitation, Kristopher tapped out a single word into the chat, ¡°Boring.¡±
Belinda used to reply instantly to any message from him, no matter when. But now, his message seemed to disappear into the void.
As the group departed the restaurant close to eleven that night, there was still no word from Belinda.
On the drive home, Kristopher stared at the message he had sent two hours before, feeling a hollow ache inside.
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Chapter 82
?Chapter 82:
¡°Kristopher, what has caught your attention?¡± Cathy asked, noticing Kristopher¡¯s preupied expression. She leaned in closer, a crease forming between her brows. ¡°You were constantly on your phone back at the restaurant. Is there a problem at thepany?¡±
As she talked, her eyes briefly darted to Kristopher¡¯s phone screen.
Snapped out of his thoughts, Kristopher quickly locked his phone. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s Marc. He¡¯s keeping me informed about some urgent work matters.¡±
Cathy lowered her gaze, her tone soft yetposed. ¡°I understand. You always push yourself too hard, Kristopher.¡± She turned away to gaze out the car window. The source of th?s content is F¦ÉndNovel
Away from Kristopher¡¯s view, her eyes became cold.
Before Kristopher locked his phone, she had seen the screen.
It was a conversation with Belinda!
That exined his distraction all evening.
It had to be Belinda, attempting to ensnare him once more!
Cathy had suspected all along that Belinda would not let go of Kristopher so easily.
As the car pulled up to the Miller family¡¯s vi, Cathy perked up and smiled, opening the car door. ¡°Look, the lights are still on; my parents haven¡¯t retired yet. Why don¡¯t youe in for a bit?¡±
Kristopher checked the extravagant watch encircling his wrist. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. Maybe next time.¡±
¡°Alright then.¡±
Cathy offered a smile that carried a trace of understanding, murmured her farewells, and stepped out of the car.
?¦Ò???? ¦Ô???????????? ¦É?? ?????????????????.??????
¡°Sir, where shall we go?¡± the driver, speaking in hushed tones from the front seat, inquired. ¡°To the office, or your house?¡±
Kristopher, slumped against the plush leather of the backseat, his brow furrowed as he watched Cathy disappear into the distance, replied curtly, ¡°Home.¡±
The driver paused, uncertainty in his voice. ¡°Which home, sir?¡±
Kristopher turned, his gaze icy as it met the driver¡¯s. ¡°How many homes do you suppose I have?¡±
Intimidated, the driver quickly turned the vehicle around and set off for Kristopher¡¯s usual residence.
Meanwhile, inside the grandeur of the Miller family vi, Cathy stood by the window, her gaze fixed on the dwindling taillights of Kristopher¡¯s car. Her hands were balled into fists at her sides.
¡°Cathy.¡±
Evelyn approached, offering a cup of steaming tea, and stood next to her. Both women stared in the direction Kristopher had taken.
¡°Where could Kristopher be heading at this hour? Both the Cox Group and the Cox family house are to the east.¡±
Cathy¡¯s expression darkened as she epted the tea, her tone losing its usual softness. ¡°He¡¯s headed west, towards the house he shared with Belinda.¡±
Evelyn expressed her surprise. ¡°But didn¡¯t you mention that Belinda had moved out quite some time ago?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Cathy confirmed, her eyes narrowing, her voice turning frosty. ¡°It seems I¡¯ve underestimated how significant Belinda still is to him.¡±
Belinda had indeed moved out a while back. If he was visiting that house sote, what memories was he chasing after?
Evelyn gently patted her shoulder, offeringfort. ¡°Kristopher was married to her for three years. It¡¯s not something he can just shake off.¡±
Cathy narrowed her eyes but remained silent.
They lingered by the floor-to-ceiling window a bit longer before Evelyn sighed deeply and stole a nce at her daughter. ¡°Tomorrow, I¡¯m thinking of visiting Joyce with your grandmother. It¡¯s been three years, hasn¡¯t it? Would you like to join us?¡±
At the mention of Joyce, Cathy¡¯s expression turned cold.
She violently mmed her cup, still brimming with warm tea, onto the floor. ¡°That exins why you were upte waiting for me. Just for this.¡±
She lifted her head, her eyes frosty as she fixed her gaze on Evelyn. ¡°Joyce is your daughter. If you want to see her, go by yourself. Don¡¯t pull me into it!¡±
A hint of embarrassment flickered across Evelyn¡¯s face.
Her expression grew somber. ¡°Cathy, regardless, Joyce is still your sister¡¡±
Cathy let out a derisiveugh and turned away. ¡°The only siblings I acknowledge are those you had with my father. Your child with that other man is nothing to me. Stop talking about that invalid. It sickens me!¡±
As her daughter strode away, Evelyn stood frozen, tears forming in her eyes. ¡°Cathy¡ you used to be different.¡±
Before the ident five years earlier, Joyce and Cathy were inseparable. Joyce would share everything with Cathy, from new friendships to the number of milk teas they enjoyed together. However, following the ident and Cathy¡¯s subsequent rtionship with Kristopher, everything had shifted¡
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Chapter 83
?Chapter 83:
At the Cox residence, Kristopher, d in ck, removed his jacket and ced it on the coat rack near the entrance. He then made his way into the living room and settled onto the sofa.
Belinda had once adored this space, filling it with an assortment of nts and fresh flowers that brought life and color to the room. This content belongs to F?nd-Novel
In the evenings, she would cook steaming hot meals and afterward curl up on the sofa with herrge, fluffy cat in her arms, eagerly awaiting his return.
Now, the vases that had once cradled her vibrant nts and flowers remained, but their contents had withered away.
The vi felt cold andpletely empty, a stark contrast to its former warmth.
For reasons unknown, Kristopher found himself thinking back to the phone call he had received from Belinda.
After brooding in silence, he reached for his phone and reopened their conversation.
Hisst message, a blunt ¡°boring,¡± hung in the chat, still awaiting a reply.
With a moment¡¯s hesitation, he typed out a new message: ¡°Did you need something when you called earlier?¡± No answer came.
Unable to remain seated any longer, five minutester, he dialed Marc. ¡°I need Belinda¡¯s current address,¡± he said tersely.
Half an hourter, Kristopher¡¯s luxury car pulled up in front of Belinda¡¯s modest rental apartment.
As he stepped out, he surveyed the aged building and its dimly lit street, his expression tightening in concern.
He had believed that Belinda, once free from their rtionship, would thrive as she had always insisted she would.
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However, the reality of her living conditions shocked him.
Even the building¡¯s security guard, a man in histe sixties or perhaps older, raised concerns about her safety. Could a young woman really be safe living here alone?
With a sense of dismay, he stepped into the elevator.
¡°Belinda.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he paused before the worn-out security door and knocked. Silence greeted his ears.
A chilling premonition washed over him.
He knocked on the door again, louder this time. ¡°Belinda?¡±
Moments passed, and just as Kristopher began to suspect she wasn¡¯t there, the door abruptly swung open.
His face brightened. ¡°Belinda¡¡±
His greeting halted abruptly as his eyes met the figure standing before him.
¡°Mr. Cox, we meet again.¡±
Darren stood in the doorway, a ck bag in hand and a mocking smile ying on his lips as he regarded Kristopher. ¡°What could possibly bring you here at this hour?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s tone was icy as he replied, ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, this is Belinda¡¯s residence, right?¡±
His gaze sharpened. ¡°Didn¡¯t you mention once that you two weren¡¯t close, Mr. Wright?¡±
Darren shrugged, uninterested in justifying himself. ¡°You know, Belinda prefers that I don¡¯t engage with you directly. Whatever I¡¯ve said before¡¡±
His smirk grew as his voice took on a sarcastic edge. ¡°It was obviously not the truth.¡±
Leaning casually against the doorframe and blocking any view inside, Darren challenged him further. ¡°Mr. Cox, must there be an urgent reason for you to show up at my girlfriend¡¯s door at such ate hour?¡±
¡°Girlfriend?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed even more. ¡°Since when did Belinda be your girlfriend?¡±
¡°What do you think?¡±
Darren retorted, his cold smile widening as he adjusted his white shirt with a flourish. ¡°Isn¡¯t it clear, given that I¡¯m here at her ce sote?¡±
The tension in the hallway mounted.
Kristopher¡¯s gaze was unyielding. ¡°Where is Belinda? Have here out and speak with me.¡±
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Chapter 84
?Chapter 84:
¡°She doesn¡¯t want to see you.¡±
Darren once again used his body to block the view into the room. ¡°Mr. Cox, it¡¯s quitete. Belinda has already gone to bed. If you need to speak with her, it can wait until tomorrow.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened.
¡°Meow!¡±
Before Kristopher could respond, Fluffy slipped through Darren¡¯s legs and darted toward Kristopher, affectionately rubbing its head against his trousers.
Kristopher had never been fond of this cat in the past. It shed too much fur and was as needy as its owner.
Yet, in that moment, he found a sense of joy as Fluffy approached him voluntarily. Readplete version only at f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?
He squatted down, lifted the cat into his arms, and with a hint of triumph in his gaze, said to Darren, ¡°This is a cat Belinda and I raised together.¡±
Darren scoffed. ¡°Cats don¡¯t know any better. If it understood what you¡¯ve done to Belinda, it wouldn¡¯t be fond of you.¡±
¡°As for what happened between Belinda and me, that¡¯s none of your concern.¡±
With a dismissive snort, Kristopher craned his neck, trying to see past Darren. ¡°Belinda,e out here.¡±
He was still officially married to her, yet here she was, having fled their home to rent this apartment and allowing another man to stay the night?
As Kristopher persisted in trying to see Belinda, Darren grew increasingly uneasy.
He scowled and did his best to block the view into the living room. ¡°Like I said, Belinda¡¯s already asleep! Leave her be!¡±
After his warning, Darren, fearing Kristopher might actually force his way in, quickly shut the door and said, ¡°Mr. Cox, she¡¯s no longer your wife. Can¡¯t you just leave her alone?¡±
Kristopher was caught off guard when Darren mmed the door. He clutched Fluffy closer and said, ¡°Her cat is still with me.¡±
¡°She doesn¡¯t want it anymore!¡±
Darren¡¯s brow furrowed as he retorted, ¡°She¡¯s determined to cut all ties with you. Since the cat was raised by both of you, she¡¯s decided she no longer wants it! If you like it that much, you might as well take it with you!¡±
With that, Darren walked briskly toward the elevator, ck bag in hand. ¡°Mr. Cox, I¡¯m leaving. Are you going to keep standing at your ex-wife¡¯s door, pretending to care?¡±
Frustrated, Kristopher raised his hand and knocked on Belinda¡¯s door once more.
But there was only silence.
Darren said impatiently, ¡°She¡¯s not well. She hasn¡¯t been resting properly for quite some time. If you really need to see her, can it not wait until tomorrow?¡±
This was the first time Kristopher had been scolded by someone like Darren, whom he considered beneath him. Normally, Kristopher would not tolerate such insolence.
However, hearing that Belinda was unwell and unrested, he was suddenly concerned.
He lowered his gaze and refrained from knocking again.
Frowning, he turned and walked into the elevator with Fluffy in his arms, saying indifferently, ¡°I¡¯ll leave her be, and you should too.¡±
Darren shot him a look and retorted sarcastically, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m as shameless as you?¡±
The two men shared the elevator ride down to the ground floor.
Exiting the apartment building, they each headed to their respective cars.
Just as Darren entered his car, his phone rang. It was Marlene from Peace Hospital on the line. ¡°I asked you to look for Belinda¡¯s medication log. Have you found it? She always keeps detailed records of her medications!¡±
¡°Yes, I¡¯ve got it. I was held up by something earlier. I¡¯m on my way now!¡±
With that, he took a deep breath, started the car, and drove off toward Peace Hospital.
Watching the direction of Darren¡¯s departing car, Kristopher gently stroked the head of the cat in his arms. ¡°Let¡¯s go. Dad will take you home.¡±
As if understanding his words, Fluffy rubbed against his chest and meowed softly.
Kristopher sighed as he looked at Fluffy¡¯s endearing face.
Suddenly, he was reminded of how Belinda used to cuddle against him in a simr way.
She had always resembled the cat now in his arms.
With this thought, he instinctively looked up at the darkened windows of Belinda¡¯s apartment.
In their divorce agreement, Belinda had insisted on taking Fluffy with her. It had only been a few hours since then, and she already wanted nothing to do with the cat?
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Chapter 85
?Chapter 85:
Belinda had spent the entire night in the emergency room at the hospital.
By the next morning, she woke up to find Darren at her side, his eyes red and weary.
¡°Darren, how are you holding up?¡±
As she woke, he swiftly pressed the call button next to the bed and grasped her hand with evident excitement. ¡°Is your stomach still aching? Are you feeling any better now?¡±
The man¡¯s voice was nasal. ¡°Do you realize you scared me to deathst night? The doctor mentioned it was fortunate I got you here when I did, or else¡¡±
Darren trailed off, leaving the sentence hanging.
Belinda understood his implication.
She managed a weak smile and responded, ¡°Thank God you came just in time. I feel a lot better now,¡± Belinda said, trying to pull her hand out of Darren¡¯s hold.
However, his grip was firm, and her strength faltered against it.
¡°Belinda.¡±
Sensing her feeble attempt to free her hand, Darren pressed his lips together and tightened his hold. ¡°You know what? When I sat outside the emergency roomst night, I made up my mind about something.¡±
Belinda frowned.
His grasp was so firm that it felt like her hand might break.
Forcing a strained smile, she looked up at him. ¡°Darren¡¡±
Step into new worlds at g ? ln¦Ò ¦Í?? ?s?conn
¡°Let me finish, Belinda.¡±
With a serious look, Darren gazed intently at her and said each word deliberately, ¡°I want to be your boyfriend.¡±
His deration made her tense up instantly.
She frowned, straining harder to free her hand from his. The source of th?s content is f?ndnovel
Finally managing to pull away, she leaned back against the bed¡¯s headboard, perspiring, and said in a raspy tone, ¡°Darren, please don¡¯t joke about this. You know about my condition¡¡±
¡°I know!¡±
Darren was visibly upset. ¡°I don¡¯t care about the time you have left. I just want to be with you!¡±
He reached for her hand again but paused upon noticing the red mark he had left.
Pulling his hand back awkwardly, he said with regret, ¡°Belinda, I¡ didn¡¯t mean to hurt you.¡±
¡°It doesn¡¯t matter.¡±
Belinda bowed her head and discreetly covered the mark on her hand with her sleeve. She offered a gentle smile and said, ¡°Let¡¯s pretend you didn¡¯t say that.¡±
Darren began to protest, ¡°But¡¡±
¡°¡ªDarren.¡±
She lifted her head and fixed him with a serious gaze. ¡°You¡¯re the only friend who knows about my condition, which is why I called on youst night. If you keep behaving this way, I won¡¯t know who to turn to in future emergencies.¡±
The room fell quiet.
Darren hung his head, saying nothing.
He understood what Belinda meant.
If he pushed for a rtionship, they might not even remain friends.
Thinking of what had happenedst night¡
Darren took a deep breath and met her gaze with a resigned smile. ¡°Alright. Then¡ Let¡¯s make me your emergency contact. Don¡¯t reach out to Kristopher anymore.¡±
Belinda looked down at her fingers and nodded silently, admitting,
¡°About the emergency contact¡ I simply forgot to update it.¡± She wouldn¡¯t have contacted Kristopher if she hadn¡¯t nearly passed out from the pain.
¡°Last night¡ I ran into Kristopher.¡±
Darren licked his lips and added softly, ¡°He asked me to tell you not to bother him anymore.¡±
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Chapter 86
?Chapter 86:
Belinda hung her head, a sharp pain gnawing at her heart as if it were being sliced by a knife.
She had nearly met her end the previous night.
Weakness had imed her voice, rendering her speechless. To any stranger on the other end of the line, it would have been clear that something terrible had transpired, especially in the middle of the night.
However, Kristopher, the man she had adored for five years and called her husband for three, seemed merely annoyed by her call. Checktest chapters at F¦ÉndNovel
This thought made her smile with bitterness.
It was no surprise then that after ending the call, Kristopher had persistently tried to reach her.
Lying on the floorst night, the sound of her ringing phone had initially given her a sliver of hope. She thought perhaps Kristopher was calling back out of concern, wondering what had happened to her. But now, reflecting on it, she realized he might have just been irritated that she had interrupted his dinner with Cathy, perhaps even nning to scold her.
¡°Miss Nelson!¡± The voice snapped her out of her thoughts.
The door to the ward swung open, and Marlene entered briskly with several interns trailing behind her. ¡°How are you feeling now?¡±
Seeing the doctor, Darren stepped back respectfully and inquired, ¡°Dr. Reid, is she able to eat now? I could go grab some breakfast for her.¡±
¡°Not yet.¡±
Marlene frowned and looked at him. ¡°You could go out and grab some breakfast on your own. We need to run some tests on Miss Nelson, and it¡¯s not really convenient for you to be hanging around in here.¡±
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Darren nodded in agreement and replied, ¡°I¡¯m off then, Belinda.¡± With that, he turned and exited the room.
¡°Mr. Wright is such a gentleman.¡±
Once the door closed behind him, Marlene turned to Belinda, a yful smile dancing on her lips. ¡°Where on earth did you find such a gem?¡±
¡°He¡¯s just a senior from my college days, not my boyfriend,¡± Belinda rified, her expression slightly tense.
¡°So he¡¯s not your boyfriend yet, huh?¡±
Marlene gave her a mischievous wink and leaned in as if about to share a secret. ¡°You should have seen how worried he was about youst night! Aside from the time I sent him to your apartment to grab your medical notes, he spent the entire night waiting outside the emergency room!¡±
Belinda shifted ufortably, eager to steer the conversation away from the subject. She looked up at Marlene and asked, ¡°What actually happened to mest night? Was it serious?¡±
¡°It was bad enough that you passed out. Don¡¯t you remember any of the pain?¡±
Hearing her words, Marlene fixed her with a stern look. ¡°Aren¡¯t you aware of your condition? How can you even think of eating spicy food? If you continue like this, you won¡¯t survive the next three months!¡±
She then lowered her eyes back to her notes. ¡°Thankfully, the medicine you wanted to give another patient yesterday afternoon was still avable. Otherwise, with the urgencyst night, we wouldn¡¯t have had time to procure more for you!¡±
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion. ¡°Medicine from that patient yesterday afternoon?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Marlene replied with a sigh. ¡°It was meant for a patient who got agitated yesterday. You agreed to sell one dose to her. Everything was set, but when she arrived, she refused it and left, leaving the medicine untouched. We had nned to return it to storage today and save it for your next treatment. But then your emergency urredst night, and it was fortunate we could use it.¡±
Marlene scratched her head and continued, ¡°But that patient¡¯s situation is a bit moreplicated¡ Herwyer might want to meet and discuss a potential partnership with you in theing days. If you two strike a deal, not only will she not need your medicine, but she¡¯ll also supply you with various new treatments for stomach cancer from overseas.¡±
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Chapter 87
?Chapter 87:
¡°Cooperate?¡± Belinda echoed, her voice tinged with disbelief. She was battling advanced gastric cancer, as was the other patient. What could possibly warrant cooperation between two individuals so gravely ill? Moreover, the other patient had even involved awyer.
¡°I¡¯m not privy to the specifics,¡± Belinda continued, her tone hinting at frustration.
Marlene, clearly exasperated, scratched her head. ¡°You¡¯ll get all the details when you meet with herwyer. But I assure you, it¡¯s nothing harmful to you. That patient¡¯s boyfriend holds considerable influence; perhaps he could help secure better treatment options for you.¡±
With that, Marlene turned her attention to the interns trailing behind her, clipboard in hand, asking if they had grasped everything she had just ryed.
Not wanting to press Marlene any further, Belinda retrieved her phone from the nightstand and powered it on. Instantly, her screen filled with notifications. Among them, over ten messages from Madisyn stood out.
¡°Belinda, I¡¯m at your ce now. Why aren¡¯t you here? Did you go to the courthouse?¡±
¡°Belinda, today¡¯s the day you get your divorce from Kristopher! Make sure you dress to impress and make that man regret letting someone as stunning as you go. Trust me!¡± This content belongs to Find1Novel
¡°Belinda, why haven¡¯t you picked up your phone? What¡¯s happening at the courthouse? I¡¯m really worried!¡±
¡°Is Kristopher causing you any trouble? He¡¯s always seen with Cathy. Did he have the nerve to bring her along today?¡±
It wasn¡¯t until Belinda read these messages that she remembered she was supposed to be divorcing Kristopher today.
She nced down at her watch. It was already nine in the morning. Looking up at Marlene, she asked, ¡°Is there any chance I could be discharged today?¡±
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Marlene, still instructing several interns with her back to Belinda, was taken aback.
She turned around to face Belinda, her expression one of clear surprise, as if she thought Belinda was an anomaly. ¡°Miss Nelson, are you aware that patients in the advanced stages of illness like yours are always advised to remain in the hospital? It¡¯s risky to leave, especially afterst night¡¯s incident. You¡¯ve only been awake for less than an hour. Are you sure it¡¯s wise to leave so soon? Do you really take your health seriously?¡±
Belinda furrowed her brows. ¡°But there¡¯s something urgent I need to handle.¡±
¡°You can¡¯t just leave the hospital, even if it¡¯s urgent!¡± Marlene replied, waving her hand dismissively. ¡°Postpone any emergency! Even if you think you must leave, you need to be observed overnight!¡±
Concerned that Belinda might try to sneak out, Marlene assigned an intern to keep a close watch on her. ¡°Danilo, keep an eye on her. She¡¯s not to leave until your shift ends today!¡±
Danilo Webster, the young intern, nodded solemnly and escorted Marlene and the others out. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Dr. Reid!¡± he reassured her.
As Danilo shut the ward door and settled into a nearby chair, Belinda couldn¡¯t help but regret asking the question in the first ce. Now, she was stuck in the hospital with no chance of a quiet escape.
Taking a deep breath, Belinda picked up her phone and tapped into her conversation with Kristopher, intending to ask him to reschedule their divorce date.
She noticed two new messages from him.
The first was a short reply to her call the night before: ¡°Boring.¡±
The second, sent about an hourter, was more probing: ¡°Did you need something when you called earlier? Is everything okay?¡±
Belinda scoffed at the messages. Was it really taking him this long to sense that something was off with her urgent call? And even after suspecting something, he had only bothered to send a casual text.
She knew that if it had been Cathy needing help, Kristopher would have been at her doorstep in an instant.
Lost in these thoughts, Belinda¡¯s phone suddenly rang. It was Kristopher.
¡°Where are you, Belinda?¡± he asked.
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Chapter 88
?Chapter 88:
Belinda drew a deep breath, trying to steady her frail, raspy voice.
¡°Belinda Nelson.¡±
Before she could continue, Kristopher¡¯s irate tone sliced through the silence on the other end of the phone. ¡°I¡¯m outside the courthouse right now. Where are you?¡±
At the sound of his stern voice, a sharp pain jabbed at Belinda¡¯s stomach once again.
She pressed one hand to her chest and gripped the phone with the other, doing her best to sound unaffected. ¡°I¡¯m not well. I¡¯m at the hospital.¡±
Kristopher scoffed dismissively. ¡°Not well?¡±
Just the previous night, she had enjoyed a spicy meal with Madisyn, returned home with Darren, and even found time to call and bother him. And now, she imed to be unwell?
With her lip caught between her teeth, Belinda gripped the phone tighter. ¡°I¡ª¡±
Just then, the hospital room door swung open.
Darren entered, carrying a cup of steaming milk after his breakfast. ¡°Belinda, the milk from the caf¨¦ downstairs is excellent, so I thought I¡¯d bring you some¡¡±
Before Darren could finish his sentence, Kristopher¡¯s cold, detached voice interrupted. ¡°So, you¡¯re unwell because you¡¯re with Darren?¡±
Belinda¡¯s grip on her lip intensified. ¡°No,¡±
¡°You were the one who wanted a divorce, and I agreed,¡± Kristopher snapped, cutting her off. ¡°I¡¯ve canceled all my morning appointments to meet you at the court, and here you are, ditching me for him?¡±
Seated in his Maserati outside the courthouse, Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed ominously. ¡°Belinda, I gave you an opportunity. We¡¯re done discussing the divorce.¡±
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After hanging up the phone, he shot a cold nce at the driver. ¡°Take me back to the office.¡±
Marc, seated in the front, hesitated. ¡°Sir, are we leaving just like this? Shouldn¡¯t we wait a little longer for Miss Nelson?¡±
Kristopher shifted his icy stare to Marc, his chilling demeanor filling the car. ¡°Miss Nelson?¡±
Feeling the frostiness intensify, Marc recoiled slightly and quickly corrected himself. ¡°I mean, shouldn¡¯t we wait a bit longer for Mrs. Cox?¡±
Kristopher leaned back into the leather seat, closing his eyes and letting out a relieved sigh. However, within moments, his brow furrowed again in deep thought. He recalled that Darren had left Belinda¡¯s apartment just after eleven the previous night. Now, at only nine in the morning, they were together again. Could they truly be that inseparable?
With this thought nagging at him, he opened his eyes and instructed the driver once more. ¡°Turn around. Let¡¯s go to Belinda¡¯s ce.¡±
At the hospital, Darren noticed Belinda¡¯s paleplexion and hesitantly set the milk down. ¡°Belinda, did I say something wrong?¡±
Belinda furrowed her brow and shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s not on you.¡± The call from Kristopher had been nothing but an attempt to pick a fight. Even if Darren had remained silent, Kristopher would have still found a reason to be upset.
¡°How could it not be your fault?¡± Danilo, observing from the doorway, interjected with pursed lips. ¡°She was exining to her ex-husband why she missed their appointment at the court to finalize their divorce. When he heard your voice in the background, he instantly called off the divorce.¡±
He shot Darren a frosty look. ¡°That was a bit careless. Now, she¡¯s stuck without a divorce, and you¡¯ve lost your chance.¡±
Darren¡¯s expression grew somber. ¡°Belinda, were you supposed to meet Kristopher to finalize the divorce today?¡±
Belinda nodded in response.
¡°Is there still time to make it?¡± Darren asked, his brow furrowed with worry as he hurried to help Belinda collect her belongings. ¡°I¡¯ll drive you there right now!¡±
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Chapter 89
?Chapter 89:
¡°Darren.¡±
Belinda watched as Darren began packing up for her, her brow furrowing slightly. ¡°Don¡¯t bother. He¡¯s no longer at the court.¡±
Darren paused, his hands frozen over the prescription notes he was collecting for Belinda. He looked up, his expression apologetic. ¡°Belinda, I had no idea you were on the phone with him, nor did I know about your divorce appointment today. If I had, I wouldn¡¯t have¡¡±
He stopped, hesitated, then decisively added, ¡°I¡¯m going to see Kristopher at Cox Group.¡±
¡°Darren.¡±
As he made to leave, Belinda, massaging her tired temples, stopped him. ¡°Don¡¯t bother.¡±
¡°But Belinda¡¡±
Darren¡¯s face was etched with guilt. ¡°You had a divorce appointment¡ If you can¡¯t divorce him because of me¡¡±
¡°It¡¯s not about you.¡±
Withdrawing her hand gently, Belinda offered him a wry smile. ¡°He¡¯s upset because I didn¡¯t show up. No matter what, we¡¯ll get divorced one day. And now, I¡¯m sure he¡¯s much more anxious for a divorce than I am.¡± Get full chapters from ?ovelFind
Kristopher and Cathy¡¯s engagement ceremony was just a week away, and he needed to be divorced before then. Cathy would never ept him being married while engaged to her.
Belinda then turned to Darren with a polite smile. ¡°Darren, you¡¯ve been up all night because of me. You should head back and get some rest. Danilo will take over from here.¡±
Darren furrowed his brows and cast a wary nce at Danilo, who was lounging in a chair nearby. ¡°Is that alright?¡±
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¡°Danilo was trained by Dr. Reid. He¡¯s quite capable,¡± Belinda reassured him, still smiling.
¡°Absolutely,¡± Danilo, who was already not fond of Darren, chimed in. Annoyed by his scrutiny, Danilo couldn¡¯t resist a retort. ¡°I¡¯m just an intern, but when ites to patient care, I¡¯m certainly more adept than you.¡±
Darren¡¯s frown deepened, exhaustion weighing on him. Concern etched on his face, he looked at Belinda earnestly. ¡°Belinda, call me if you need anything. I¡¯m heading home now.¡± With that, he draped his coat over his arm and departed.
Once he was gone, Danilo shut the ward door and turned to Belinda, his curiosity piqued. ¡°Is this man the reason you want a divorce?¡±
¡°No,¡± she replied simply.
¡°Then is it because you¡¯re terminally ill and don¡¯t want to burden your husband?¡± Danilo asked, his gaze intense.
¡°No, I don¡¯t think so,¡± Belinda said, shaking her head.
Danilo¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion. ¡°Then why? Don¡¯t tell me it¡¯s because your husband is having an affair.¡±
Observing Danilo¡¯s eagerness for gossip, Belinda smiled slightly. ¡°You¡¯re close.¡±
His eyes widened in astonishment. ¡°But you¡¯re so beautiful. How could your husband cheat on you?¡±
¡°Marriage isn¡¯t really about looks,¡± Belinda replied with a gentle smile.
Danilo fell silent for a moment before nodding. ¡°You¡¯re right. Just yesterday, I saw a celebrity who was rushed to the hospital in an ambnce¡ What was her name?¡±
Belinda raised an eyebrow. ¡°Cathy Miller?¡±
¡°That¡¯s her, yes!¡± Danilo eximed, his face lighting up. ¡°I mean, she¡¯s pretty ordinary, not stunning or anything. Definitely not as beautiful as you. Yet, her boyfriend, the CEO of that big multinationalpany, he¡¯s extremely attentive towards her.¡±
As he spoke, Danilo let out a sigh. ¡°You¡¯re right. Love doesn¡¯t really hinge on looks.¡±
¡°Do you know what¡¯s wrong with Cathy? Why did she need to be transferred here?¡± Belinda asked, her smile tinged with curiosity.
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Chapter 90
?Chapter 90:
Danilo shook his head, uncertainty clear in his voice. ¡°I¡¯m not sure. Miss Miller is quite elusive and always guarded. However, her glowing cheeks and lively tone suggest she¡¯s probably alright.¡±
As he spoke, Danilo pursed his lips, adding, ¡°Her boyfriend was probably worried about her; he even took her to Peace Hospital for a check-up. Just yesterday, there was buzz among the hospital staff about how Mr. Cox truly looks out for Miss Miller.¡±
Belinda offered a slight smile in response, simply saying, ¡°Yes.¡±
In Kristopher¡¯s eyes, every strand of Cathy¡¯s hair held value. To him, Belinda seemed to matter far less.
At that moment, Danilo¡¯s phone buzzed.
He nced at the iing text, his brow furrowing as he let out a resigned sigh.
Reading his expression, Belinda reassured him, ¡°Go on, if you need to handle something. As you heard, my divorce is canceled today. I¡¯m not going anywhere. Take care of your business.¡±
Danilo¡¯s frown deepened as he slowly admitted, ¡°I do have something urgent to take care of¡ But¡¡±
He hesitated for a moment before a thought struck him, prompting a relieved exhale. ¡°I know, I¡¯ll have my roommate look after you. He¡¯s not busy.¡±
Danilo suggested, reaching for his phone. As soon as he dialed, a brief busy tone gave way to a man¡¯s crisp voice on the other end. ¡°Hey, what¡¯s up?¡±
¡°Fred, can you do me a favor?¡± Danilo blurted out, urgency in his voice. ¡°I¡¯m helping a patient at Peace Hospital. I¡¯ll text you the details soon!¡± Fresh chapters posted on Find~Novel
A light chuckle came through the phone. ¡°Sure, I¡¯m on my way.¡±
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Once the call ended, Danilo turned to Belinda, trying to reassure her. ¡°My roommate, Fred, will take care of you. He¡¯s not medically trained, but he¡¯s strong as an ox. He¡¯ll manage just fine.¡±
With Danilo so set on the arrangement, Belinda saw no point in objecting and nodded in eptance. ¡°What¡¯s his name again?¡±
¡°Fred Schmidt,¡± Danilo replied.
A crease formed between Belinda¡¯s brows as she mulled over the name. It sounded strangely familiar to her.
Thirty minutester, when Belinda caught sight of Fred d in light blue sportswear standing in the hospital ward, she suddenly realized why his name had seemed so familiar.
Was this not the same college guy who had shared drinks and dance moves with her and Madisyn at the bar just a few nights ago?
Fred recognized Belinda immediately.
After quickly suggesting that Danilo should leave, he shut the ward¡¯s door with a smooth motion and shed a smile. ¡°It seems fate keeps bringing us together. I didn¡¯t expect to bump into you here.¡±
¡°What a coincidence,¡± Belinda muttered, her smile tinged with difort.
Back at the bar, Fred had been rxed and lively, a demeanor that hadn¡¯t seemed out of ce at the time. Now, in the quiet of the ward with just the two of them, a palpable tension filled the air.
Unlike Belinda, who was clearly ufortable, Fred seemedpletely at ease. He strode over to the bed, pulled up a chair with casual confidence, and sat down. He grabbed a banana from the bedside table and peeled it while chatting like they were old friends. ¡°What¡¯s up with you? You don¡¯t look too good.¡±
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Chapter 91
?Chapter 91:
Almost without thinking, Belinda said, ¡°I have a stomachache.¡±
Fred¡¯s eyebrows shot up. ¡°You¡¯re at Peace Hospital for a stomachache? Sounds pretty serious, huh?¡±
He nced at the banana in his hand and asked, ¡°Think you can handle this?¡± For more chapters visit F?nd-Novel
Politely, Belinda shook her head.
Fred chuckled at her response. ¡°Guess I¡¯ll just have to eat it myself then.¡±
With a yful grin, he eagerly began eating the banana.
His light-heartedness somehow put her at ease.
Shifting into a morefortable position, she gazed at him curiously. ¡°Haven¡¯t you graduated yet?¡±
¡°Nope,¡± Fred replied, his mouth full of banana. He chewed thoughtfully before continuing, ¡°I¡¯m just working at the bar part-time to make some extra cash. Once I¡¯m done with school, you won¡¯t catch me there anymore.¡±
Belinda raised her eyebrows yfully. ¡°Sounds like I should visit more often before you¡¯re gone.¡±
¡°Definitely.¡± Fred grinned, his eyes twinkling. ¡°I¡¯ve got about six months left till graduation.¡±
Six months¡
A wry smile crossed Belinda¡¯s face as she murmured, ¡°I¡¯ve only got three months left.¡±
Fred¡¯s eyebrows shot up. ¡°Only three months? Why?¡±
Belinda averted her gaze, hesitating. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just¡¡±
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Her exnation was cut short by the loud ring of her phone, which had been forgotten on the table.
It was Madisyn calling.
¡°Belinda, where are you?¡±
The voice on the other end sounded both anxious and frustrated. ¡°You haven¡¯t answered my texts. I went to the court and found out you didn¡¯t go through with the divorce today. Then I stopped by your apartment. Guess who I ran into?¡±
¡°Who?¡± Belinda¡¯s frown deepened.
¡°Kristopher!¡± Madisyn¡¯s voice was cold as she continued, ¡°He¡¯s everywhere, isn¡¯t he? I thought I¡¯d found you a safe enough hiding spot. Somehow, he found you again!¡±
¡°Why was he at my apartment?¡± Belinda sat bolt upright, gripping her phone tighter.
¡°He imed you stood him up. He seemed pretty upset. What¡¯s going on with him?¡±
Madisyn¡¯s voice was tight with anger as she recounted, ¡°He insisted you were home and kicked the door open. When I got here, he was inside with his girlfriend. Cathy keptining about a foul odor in the building. I was so upset that I had to drive them out.¡±
As she spoke, Madisyn hurriedly gathered items for Belinda. ¡°Your room¡¯s a disaster. They must have been here to steal, right?¡±
Belinda¡¯s mind went nk for a second after hearing this.
Then, an urgent thought struck her. ¡°Fluffy! Check if Fluffy is hiding under the bed or behind the sofa! I wasn¡¯t home, the door was forced open, and strangers were inside. He must be terrified!¡±
On the other end, Madisyn pped her forehead, eximing, ¡°Oh! Fluffy! How did I overlook him? I¡¯m on it. I¡¯ll look for him now.¡±
Belinda clenched the phone, her teeth gritted with worry.
Fluffy¡ Would he be safe?
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Chapter 92
?Chapter 92:
¡°Who is Fluffy?¡± Fred inquired, his brow furrowing as he noticed Belinda¡¯s tight grip on her phone, her face etched with tension.
Belinda inhaled sharply, her voice trembling with evident worry. ¡°Fluffy is my cat, the one I¡¯ve had for the past two years.¡±
To Belinda, Fluffy was more than just a pet; it was a part of her life she couldn¡¯t bear to give up. Kristopher could keep his house, his car, and his fortune, but she couldn¡¯t stand the thought of parting with Fluffy.
Over thest two years, during those countless moments spent alone in an empty house, it had been Fluffy¡¯s warm,forting presence that had sustained her. She couldn¡¯t stand the thought of losing that.
¡°Belinda, I can¡¯t find him anywhere.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s voice crackled with distress over the phone after a tense pause. ¡°I¡¯ve looked under the sofa, under the bed, inside the wardrobe ¡ª I¡¯ve checked every conceivable hiding spot. Usually, Fluffyes running as soon as I call, but today, no matter how much I call, there¡¯s just silence.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s voice broke as she fought back tears. ¡°Do you think Fluffy might have bolted when Kristopher broke down the door?¡±
Belinda felt a tight clench in her chest, as if an invisible hand was squeezing her heart, making it difficult to breathe. She tried to rise from the bed. ¡°Fred, help me get up.¡±
Fred moved closer, his expression filled with concern. ¡°Belinda, you¡¯re looking very pale. Are you sure you¡¯re up to this?¡±
There was a brief silence on the other end before Madisyn spoke again, urgency in her tone. ¡°Belinda, where exactly are you? Are you at the hospital?¡±
Belinda furrowed her brows and remained silent. Despite her frailty, she attempted to rise from the bed. Th?s chapter is updated by Find~Novel
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Observing this, Fred quickly took the phone from her grasp. ¡°Madisyn, this is Fred. We met at the bar. Remember me?¡±
Madisyn sounded shocked. ¡°Yes, I remember you, Fred, but why are you with Belinda?¡±
Fred sighed deeply, quickly outlining the situation.
¡°Belinda became severely illst night. They managed to stabilize her, but she¡¯s still under medical watch. The doctors are firm about her not leaving the hospital. I¡¯m here looking after her. She¡¯s really not well enough to leave, much less to roam around searching for her cat, yet she¡¯s determined to get up. Could you please help me persuade her to stay put?¡±
Madisyn gasped. ¡°Belinda, why on earth didn¡¯t you tell me you were unwell? No wonder you missed your appointment with Kristopher at the court for the divorce proceedings. I had no idea you were hospitalized! Has Kristopher been informed about your condition?¡±
Belinda shot Fred a sharp look before reiming the phone. ¡°I mentioned I was sick, but he just wouldn¡¯t ept it.¡±
¡°I knew it!¡± Madisyn exploded in frustration. ¡°That man took his darling Miss Miller to Peace Hospital for a minor head injury in no time. Yet when it¡¯s you in the hospital, he doubts it, uses you of avoiding him, and even breaks into your house with Cathy! What a jerk!¡±
¡°Madisyn, let¡¯s drop the subject,¡± Belinda said, cutting her off with a frown. ¡°What I¡¯m really worried about right now is where Fluffy is.¡±
¡°Maybe they forced the door knowing how much you care about Fluffy, and they let her escape on purpose!¡± Madisyn eximed, a note of conspiracy in her voice. ¡°Belinda, focus on getting better at the hospital. I¡¯ll handle everything here. I¡¯m going to put up flyers and get everyone on the lookout for her. Fluffy is such a good cat; she¡¯s probably still somewhere in the building or close by in the neighborhood. She wouldn¡¯t have gone far,¡± Madisyn reassured her.
Belinda bit her lip, her worry evident. ¡°Okay.¡±
Despite Madisyn rallying everyone to search from dawn until evening, canvassing all the nearby areas, there was still no sign of Fluffy.
Noticing Belinda¡¯s anxious demeanor, Fred furrowed his brow. ¡°If Fluffy disappeared this morning, she couldn¡¯t have strayed too far in a single day. Think carefully. When was thest time you actually saw her? Was she around before the incidentst night?¡±
Belinda nodded affirmatively. ¡°Yes, I saw her.¡± She suddenly remembered that if Fluffy hadn¡¯t knocked over her tea, she might not have made it through the night.
With a surge of urgency, she grabbed her phone and dialed Darren¡¯s number, her voice tinged with hope. ¡°Darren,st night, when you rushed me to the hospital¡ did you notice my cat? Arge Ragdoll?¡±
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Chapter 93
?Chapter 93:
Darren remained silent on the other end of the phone for a long moment before responding in a raspy voice, ¡°No.¡±
Belinda had resolved to divorce Kristopher and sever all ties with him, which made it unnecessary to keep the cat they had raised together. After his brief response, Darren, wary of raising Belinda¡¯s suspicions, quickly followed up, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±
In her hospital room, Belinda clutched her phone, her eyes losing their glimmer of hope. ¡°My cat¡¯s gone missing¡ It¡¯s wary of strangers. If you didn¡¯t spot itst night, it might be hiding somewhere.¡± Her voice trembled as she fought back tears. ¡°I¡¯ll search for her again.¡±
¡°Alright.¡±
Darren exhaled in relief. ¡°If you need help, just call me, anytime.¡±
¡°Sure.¡±
After the call, Belinda gripped her phone even tighter and shut her eyes, teetering on the edge of despair.
Why was life so cruel to her?
Facing a terminal illness, she had let go of Kristopher, her love of five years.
All she wanted now was thefort of her cherished cat in her final days.
Was even that simple wish too much to ask?
¡°Don¡¯t be sad,¡± Fred said gently, unable to watch her distress any longer. ¡°Your cat might just be hiding. It probably won¡¯te out until it smells something familiar. It¡¯s a shy creature, scared of strangers, just like you mentioned.¡±
His words seemed to inject Belinda with a flicker of hope.
Her eyes snapped open, and she made a move to get out of bed. ¡°I need to ask Dr. Reid if I can be discharged¡¡±
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¡°I¡¯ve already spoken to Danilo about it,¡± Fred interrupted, waving his phone to show her the messages between Danilo and Marlene. ¡°You¡¯re cleared to leave the hospital. Why don¡¯t you get changed? I¡¯ll handle the discharge paperwork. Then I can help you search for your cat, alright?¡±
Belinda bit her lip, her anxiety giving way to a tentative nod.
¡°Wait for me here.¡±
A few minutester, before Belinda could change, the door to her hospital room swung open. Fred stood there, breathless. ¡°The doctor said¡¡±
In the hospital ward, Belinda donned a hoodie.
As she slipped her arms through the sleeves, her abdominal muscles tightened, revealing the sleek contours of her stomach and smooth skin.
Though only a glimpse of her belly was visible, it was enough to send a surge of heat through Fred as he watched her.
After she was fully dressed, Fred averted his gaze, his lips parting slightly. ¡°The doctor wants you to keep a daily diary after you¡¯re discharged. If you can¡¯t find a physical diary, just use your phone to record everything. We can¡¯t have a repeat ofst night. You were already at the hospital, but someone had to rush back to fetch the diary.¡±
Belinda was just about to leave, her backpack in hand, when she hesitated.
¡°Did someone really go back for my medicine diaryst night?¡± she asked, frowning.
Darren hadn¡¯t mentioned it.
Fred confirmed with a nod. ¡°Yes, Dr. Reid mentioned it. Your friend from college didn¡¯t know his way around your ce well. It took him a few hours to find the diary and bring it back, which nearly dyed your treatment. So, she wants you to¡¡±
Worried, Belinda quickly took out her phone and dialed Darren. ¡°Darren, you went to my apartment twicest night, didn¡¯t you? Did you see my cat there at all?¡±
There was a long silence on the other end before Darren responded, clearly annoyed. ¡°Belinda, why are you so fixated on that cat? Is it because Kristopher gave it to you?¡±
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Chapter 94
?Chapter 94:
Upon hearing this, Belinda caught her breath for a moment before responding, ¡°This has nothing to do with Kristopher.¡± Fluffy had been her support over thest two years.
Even if the cat wasn¡¯t a gift from Kristopher but a stray she had brought home, she had shared her life with Fluffy for over two years and had no intention of abandoning it now.
However, Darren dismissed her words outright. ¡°Belinda, wake up. You stood up and dered your divorce with such conviction in front of everyone, and I respected you for that. But now, look at you. Isn¡¯t it odd that you¡¯re so attached to a cat he gave you, while you im you want to end things with him?¡±
Belinda closed her eyes, trying to regain herposure, and said, ¡°Darren, just answer this for me. You were at my apartment twicest night. Did you see Fluffy?¡±
She had called him hoping to gather some clues about when Fluffy might have disappeared, not to be scolded.
There was a pause on the line before Darren replied in a cool, distant tone, ¡°No. I don¡¯t even know what your cat looks like.¡±
¡°Alright, thanks,¡± Belinda said, her brow furrowed in frustration as she prepared to end the call. But then something urred to her, and she quickly added, ¡°Madisyn mentioned that when she visited my apartment today, it waspletely trashed¡ Did you do that?¡± The source of th?s content is find{n}ovel
¡°No.¡±
Belinda¡¯s mouth curled into a smile as she said, ¡°Then it seems I¡¯ve been robbed. Anyway, thank you, Darren. I¡¯ll have Madisyn arrange a generous gift to thank you for your assistance yesterday.¡±
She then ended the call.
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Sitting in his office, Darren heard the line go dead and realized he had perhaps been overly hasty.
He dialed her number again without hesitation.
Meanwhile, just a few steps down the hospital corridor, Belinda¡¯s phone began to ring.
She nced at the caller ID with a slight frown, feeling an unexpected annoyance.
Just as she was about to dismiss the call, someone snatched the phone from her hand and dered, ¡°I¡¯ll take it.¡±
No sooner had the call been answered than Darren¡¯s apologetic voice came through. ¡°Belinda, I apologize for earlier. I¡¯m just really tired, and it¡¯s been a hectic day¡¡±
¡°Hello.¡±
Fred escorted Belinda to the elevator, which was crowded, but they managed to squeeze in.
Positioning himself protectively around her, Fred announced, ¡°I¡¯m Belinda¡¯s brother. She¡¯s been searching for her cat.¡±
On the other end, Darren paused, taken aback. ¡°She has a brother?¡± How had he not known that?
¡°Sir,¡± Fred began, his voice clear and assertive as he smiled. ¡°What right do you have to demand she give up the cat she¡¯s cherished for two years? She¡¯s her own person, capable of making her own choices about what she holds dear and what she doesn¡¯t.¡±
With that, Fred hung up the phone and handed it back to Belinda. ¡°Keep your distance from this guy. If he¡¯s already dictating your choices and you¡¯re not even a couple yet, that¡¯s a bad sign.¡±
Belinda couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at Fred¡¯s words, feeling the cloud of gloom lift from her spirits.
Soon enough, the elevator dinged its arrival at the ground floor. As Belinda stepped out, she was immediately confronted by thest two people she wanted to encounter.
It was Cathy and Kristopher.
¡°Oh, Miss Nelson,¡± Cathy called out before Belinda could even react. ¡°Kristopher was at your apartment looking for you this morning, but you weren¡¯t there. Have you been holed up in the hospital all this time?¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes narrowed slyly, as if a thought had just struck her. ¡°Kristopher would never have guessed you were at Peace Hospital. But even if he did find you here, you could simply say you were sick and couldn¡¯t make it to the court.¡±
Tilting her head to the side with a sly grin, Cathy added, ¡°You¡¯re quite the strategist, Miss Nelson.¡±
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Chapter 95
?Chapter 95:
¡°Miss Miller, are you suggesting that I¡¯m feigning illness?¡± Belinda narrowed her eyes.
¡°Or perhaps something else?¡± Cathy sneered. ¡°It¡¯smon knowledge that Peace Hospital is the top facility in Nawrin for tacklingplex ailments. Most whoe here have found no relief elsewhere. However¡¡± Pausing, Cathy quickly scanned Belinda and added with emphasis, ¡°There are a few, though, whoe here under false pretenses.¡±
¡°In light of that, what about you, Miss Miller?¡± Belinda shot back with a quick nce. ¡°Are you seriously ill, or just putting on an act?¡±
Her challenge drained the color from Cathy¡¯s face.
Lips trembling, Cathy retreated a few steps and turned to Kristopher with a look of hurt, silently pleading for his support.
¡°Belinda,¡± Kristopher interjected, his brow creased with concern. ¡°That¡¯s enough! We¡¯re here because Cathy genuinely feels unwell. What¡¯s the need to dig deeper?¡±
Belinda, arms folded defiantly, scoffed. ¡°She started with the probing questions. Have you forgotten already? Do you need me to jog your memory about who used me of faking my illness?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brows knit together as he challenged her. ¡°Was she wrong to ask? You¡¯re healthy, yet here you are. Are you faking illness?¡±
Raising her eyebrows, a self-deprecating smile yed across Belinda¡¯s lips. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m perfectly healthy.¡±
She clung to the hope that Kristopher¡¯s usation was correct.
¡°So you¡¯re pretending to be sick to avoid finalizing our divorce?¡± Kristopher¡¯s stare was piercing as he sneered. ¡°I really thought you meant it this time. If you didn¡¯t want a divorce, why bring it up? What¡¯s your n now?¡±
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By now, everyone in the Cox family circle, even his grandfather, knew about the impending divorce and hadn¡¯t intervened.
After this, they wouldn¡¯t pay any attention to Belinda anymore.
¡°Divorce, of course,¡± she retorted sharply. ¡°I wasn¡¯t at the court this morning because I had a severe stomachache. My friend was worried and rushed me to the hospital. The doctor won¡¯t let me leave yet, so I couldn¡¯t go to the¡¡±
¡°Divorce, of course,¡± she retorted sharply. ¡°I wasn¡¯t at the court this morning because I had a severe stomachache. My friend was worried and rushed me to the hospital. The doctor won¡¯t let me leave yet, so I couldn¡¯t go to the court this morning.¡± She lifted her gaze to meet Kristopher¡¯s. ¡°I want the divorce. I¡¯m free all next week. Pick a time, and I¡¯ll be there.¡±
The smugness in Kristopher¡¯s eyes abruptly turned cold.
¡°You have a stomachache?¡± Cathy asked with a chuckle, hinting at mischief. ¡°Did you get it on purpose to avoid today? What will your excuse be next time?¡±
Fred, who had been quietly standing behind Belinda, finally reached his breaking point at Cathy¡¯s provoking tone. ¡°Could you please stop being so harsh?¡± he interjected, his voice edged with frustration. ¡°What are you trying to imply? If she truly doesn¡¯t want a divorce, there are countless ways to avoid it. She won¡¯t even agree to sign the divorce papers! Why would she inflict pain on herself just to avoid a divorce?¡±
He had never nned to involve himself in Belinda¡¯s personal matters. He had only met her ex-husband, a man whose cold, arrogant demeanor made Fred feel naive and inexperienced. Yet, Cathy¡¯s words struck a nerve, and he couldn¡¯t hold back.
¡°It¡¯s you?¡± Kristopher blurted out, recognizing Fred the moment he finished speaking. ¡°The guy from the bar?¡±
He sneered as he nced down at Belinda with contempt. ¡°I thought Darren was all you needed. Another one here too? You¡¯re difficult to please, Belinda.¡±
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Chapter 96
?Chapter 96:
Belinda¡¯s breath caught in her throat.
Although she had resigned herself to the sadness of no longer feeling anything for Kristopher, his words still stung.
She had given him five years of love and three years of marriage. He was supposed to understand her better than anyone.
Yet, barely a month had passed since their separation, and already he had diminished her sopletely.
In his eyes, tainted by his own betrayals, he saw her as he saw himself¡ªa cheater.
His affair with Cathy had distorted his perception, leading him to suspect every man in her life of being more than just a friend.
Fred¡¯s brow furrowed as he addressed Kristopher. ¡°Look, I¡¯m just a college student working part-time as a nursing aide.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s skepticism was palpable. ¡°Last time I saw you in a bar, and now you¡¯re her nurse? Quite the coincidence!¡±
Fredughed off the usation. ¡°Who knows? Maybe next I¡¯ll be delivering your pizza. I take whatever job I can get!¡±
Tugging at Belinda¡¯s arm, he added, ¡°We¡¯ve got urgent matters to attend to and no time to waste on you or your girlfriend, whatever her ailment may be.¡±
With that, Fred grasped Belinda¡¯s hand firmly and steered her away from Kristopher and Cathy. They had only taken a few steps when Belinda paused, a sudden thought halting her escape.
She turned to him with an icy re and dered, ¡°Mr. Cox, today you and your girlfriend barged into my home while I was out. I¡¯m calling the police. And don¡¯t forget to transfer the money you owe me from yesterday. If you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll make sure everyone in high society hears about this.¡±
With those words, she seized Fred¡¯s arm, and they quickly walked away.
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed in irritation, and he started to go after Belinda but was held back by Cathy.
¡°Kristopher, let them go,¡± she advised him gently.
Her voice was soft, her lips quivering slightly as she continued, ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. The doctor will be leaving soon. My stomach cancer¡ I should matter more to you than she does, right?¡±
Confronted with Cathy¡¯s plea, Kristopher reluctantly ceased his pursuit of Belinda and apanied her into the elevator instead. His expression was unreadable as they ascended to the gastroenterology department.
Cathy watched him, her mind drifting back to that morning.
She had eagerly asked him if he had finalized his divorce, but all he could do was sigh and tell her that Belinda was refusing to let go.
Despite his sighs, there was a trace of relief in his demeanor, something that didn¡¯t go unnoticed.
Just now, when he was downstairs asking Belinda about her ns, he seemed cheerful.
But now¡
Cathy¡¯s fingernails dug into her palms.
Could it be that Kristopher was the one who didn¡¯t want the divorce?
They soon reached the gastroenterology department.
As they walked into the office, another doctor immediately pulled Kristopher aside.
Seizing the moment, Cathy edged closer to Marlene and whispered, Updates are released by F?ndNovel
¡°Dr. Reid, about what I asked youst night¡ Did you tell her?¡±
Marlene hesitated, then nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±
¡°Is she still in the hospital?¡±
ncing over at Kristopher, who was engrossed in some papers, Cathy murmured, ¡°I need to see her. I need to see what a woman battling advanced gastric cancer looks like.¡±
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Chapter 97
?Chapter 97:
As soon as Belinda and Fred reached her apartment building, her phone began to buzz. It was Marlene calling.
Sensing urgency, Belinda picked up immediately.
¡°Belinda,¡± Marlene began, her voiceced with hesitation. ¡°Remember the patient who wanted to use the same medicine as yours?¡±
Belinda, her eyebrows arching in recognition, responded, ¡°Yes, what about her?¡±
¡°Well¡¡± Marlene¡¯s voice trailed off as she observed a woman leaning on a tall man¡¯s arm, engaged in conversation with another doctor a distance away. Distractedly, Marlene wiped away some sweat from her forehead before continuing, ¡°She¡ she showed up at the hospital today, insisting she needed to see you.¡±
¡°But I¡¯m tied up with something critical at the moment,¡± Belinda replied, clearly distracted.
There was a pause before Marlene said again, ¡°But¡¡±
¡°Dr. Reid,¡± Belinda interrupted, aware that this woman had considerable influence and was someone Marlene couldn¡¯t risk provoking. ¡°Tell her I can¡¯t find my son and I¡¯m currently with the police. I don¡¯t have the time. We can reschedule for another day, or herwyer can contact me. She mentioned getting awyer, didn¡¯t she?¡± Content originallyes from f?ndnovel
Marlene exhaled deeply, indicating her reluctance to press further, and replied, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll let her know.¡±
Belinda wasn¡¯t entirely sure if Marlene grasped the full extent of her request. Finally, Marlene reassured her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You¡¯ll find your son.¡±
With a weary smile, Belinda responded, ¡°Thank you.¡± In a peculiar way, Fluffy truly was her son.
After ending the call, she turned to address Fred, who stood vigil by her side. ¡°Let¡¯s get moving.¡±
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Fred was casually leaning against amppost, arms crossed.
The streetlight cast his features into sharp relief, entuating his angr profile.
He looked over at Belinda with a grin and remarked, ¡°You¡¯re quite the convincing liar, aren¡¯t you?¡±
Belinda raised her eyebrows. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t want to bump into someone I¡¯d rather avoid. Is it so wrong to tell a little white lie?¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t mean it that way.¡±
Fred quickly backtracked, a grin spreading across his face as he approached her. ¡°If lying is an option, why didn¡¯t you invent a new boyfriend when we bumped into your ex-husband? If he could betray you, why can¡¯t you y the field a bit?¡±
Belinda turned away, her steps quickening toward the apartment building. ¡°There¡¯s no point.¡±
¡°Give it a shot!¡± Fred encouraged, catching up to her. ¡°What if he sees you with someone new and gets jealous?¡±
With a scoff, Belinda didn¡¯t slow her pace. ¡°That¡¯s never going to happen.¡±
She knew all too well that making Kristopher jealous was a lost cause. Two and a half years earlier, upon waking from a deep sleep, his first words had been a cold directive for her to leave.
The memory still stung, but she hade to terms with it over time. Had their roles been reversed, she wasn¡¯t sure she could ept someone who had coerced her into marriage and then cared for her every day, especially during the months she was unable to speak or move.
Over the span of six months, every day, she tenderly cared for him¡ªbathing his body and attending to his most intimate needs.
She nourished him, kept him clean¡ She had witnessed his moments of utmost vulnerability and humiliation, all without his consent.
Five years ago, it had been the same as it had been three years prior.
Kristopher, ever the proud man, could never harbor affection for her.
Regrettably, she realized this truth toote.
Perhaps Kristopher had appreciated her care, but he would never hold romantic feelings for her.
Unwilling to let go, Fred challenged her, ¡°Why not give it a shot? How can you be sure it won¡¯t work?¡±
Atst, Belinda halted.
She turned to Fred with a frosty re and countered, ¡°Why are you so adamant about me trying? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re aiming to be my next boyfriend.¡±
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Chapter 98
?Chapter 98:
Fred casually leaned back, hands sped behind his head, a mischievous grin ying on his lips. ¡°Can¡¯t I?¡±
Hisid-back demeanor made Belinda second-guess her initial reaction.
She shot him a sharp look. ¡°That was in poor taste.¡± Chapters first released on f?ndnovel
¡°Just kidding.¡±
Fred¡¯sughter filled the air as he approached and lightly ced his hand on Belinda¡¯s shoulder, his smile widening in an attempt to smooth things over. ¡°I¡¯m just curious, that¡¯s all. You and your ex don¡¯t seem to care about each other at all. Why haven¡¯t you finalized the divorce?¡±
Belinda¡¯s frown deepened, and she quickly shrugged off his touch.
¡°That¡¯s none of your business. Stop prying.¡±
¡°Okay, okay, my mistake. I¡¯m sorry.¡±
Fred¡¯s chuckle lingered as he removed his jacket and draped it around Belinda¡¯s shoulders. ¡°To prove I¡¯m sincere, I¡¯ll help you search for your cat tonight, and I won¡¯t leave until we find it. Deal?¡±
The warmth of the jacket enveloped her, and Belinda realized she was trembling.
The night before, when Darren had rushed her to the hospital, she had been dressed only in light indoor clothes, and now the chill of the night was setting in.
Yet, such closeness was unfamiliar, reserved only for Kristopher in her life.
She moved to remove the jacket, but Fred gently stopped her. ¡°You¡¯re already frail. If you get sick andnd in the hospital again, your cat will be lost for even longer.¡±
Belinda paused, then reluctantly left the jacket on.
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They headed to the convenience store by the entrance and picked up some cat food. With the cat food in one hand and a shlight in the other, they started calling out for Fluffy as they roamed the area.
After a grueling four-hour search through the stairwells and around the neighborhood, encountering several stray cats but not finding Fluffy, fatigue began to set in.
It was well past ten o¡¯clock at night when Fred finally sighed. ¡°If we keep yelling, we¡¯ll just end up annoying the neighbors.¡± He nced at Belinda standing next to him. ¡°We should¡¡±
He paused mid-sentence as he noticed the tears glistening on her cheeks under the moonlight.
His tone, usually buoyant, softened considerably. ¡°Belinda, please¡ don¡¯t cry.¡±
Overwhelmed, Belinda¡¯s pent-up emotions surged. ¡°Is Fluffy¡ gone for good?¡±
She bit her lip and gripped the front of her shirt tightly, her voice breaking as she sobbed. ¡°Will Fluffy never return? I¡¯m¡ such a failure¡ I can¡¯t even keep a cat safe¡¡±
She hadn¡¯t shed a tear when she lost her baby.
Nor had she when Kristopher paraded his new romance for all to see.
Nor when the Cox family had humiliated her in public.
But now, as she lost Fluffy, her tears flowed freely.
Why?
Why couldn¡¯t this one small wish be granted?
All she wanted was for the cat that had kept herpany through countless lonely nights to stay by her side to the end.
She regretted caring for blind Kristopher along with Joyce five years ago, foolishly letting herself fall in love with him.
She regretted trying to close the distance with Kristopher, driven by a hidden crush, bing his caregiver.
And she regretted pushing for marriage to care for him in his vegetative state, against his better judgment three years prior¡
But hadn¡¯t she suffered enough? She had lost her baby, her health was failing, and she had resolved to let go of both Kristopher and herself at life¡¯s end.
Wasn¡¯t that sacrifice enough?
Why, then, could she not even keep her beloved cat?
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Chapter 99
?Chapter 99:
Days of pent-up grievances and frustrations erupted, causing Belinda to cry more loudly and desperately.
¡°Belinda, please stop crying.¡±
Fred was immediately thrown into a panic.
He attempted to wipe away her tears with a tissue, gently reassuring her, ¡°Don¡¯t be upset, we¡¯ll continue our search. Perhaps we haven¡¯t covered enough ground¡¡±
His attempts to console her only made Belinda cry harder.
¡°Please, stop crying.¡±
Feeling helpless about how tofort her, Fred finally drew her face to his chest with a gentle hand.
Belinda bit her lip, feeling an urge to push him away, yet Fred firmly held her hands.
¡°Belinda, if you cry into my chest, few will hear. Otherwise, I can¡¯t exin what¡¯s happening here at thiste hour.¡±
After a moment¡¯s hesitation, she ceased her attempts to push him away.
Resting against Fred¡¯s sturdy chest, her emotions began to stabilize, and her sobs slowly faded.
¡°Okay, okay, stop crying,¡± Fred murmured, patting her back awkwardly. ¡°I¡¯ve heard stories about cats that find their way home. Perhaps¡ Fluffy might have returned to your previous home. Shall we check at your ex-husband¡¯s ce?¡±
¡°Is that really possible?¡± Belinda stopped crying and asked in a muffled voice as she tried to pull away from his hold.
Fred quickly nodded. ¡°Yes¡ I¡¯ve heard about such things¡¡±
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Before he could finish speaking, a bright light shone on them from afar.
Fred squinted against the light, instinctively lifting his arm to shield Belinda¡¯s eyes. ¡°Who¡¯s being so inconsiderate?¡±
Belinda also squinted, troubled by the brightness.
As her vision adjusted, she recognized the high beams of a car. It was a familiar ck Maserati with a recognizable license te.
It was Kristopher.
Simultaneously, the car door swung open.
A pair of feet d in handmade leather shoes emerged from the vehicle.
Dressed in a meticulously tailored ck suit, Kristopher elegantly exited the car, leaned back against the hood, and lit a cigarette.
¡°Didn¡¯t you argue back at the hospital, iming your rtionship wasn¡¯t intimate?¡±
He inhaled deeply from the cigarette and lifted his gaze, his deep eyes coldly scanning the couple in an embrace. ¡°Belinda Nelson, is this your definition of not being intimate?¡±
Belinda¡¯s face turned pale. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find?novel
She hurriedly attempted to free herself from Fred¡¯s hold, but Fred tightened his grip.
¡°Just now, it was indeed not intimate, but after witnessing how you and your new girlfriend ndered her at the hospital, I couldn¡¯t help but feel sorry for her.¡±
He confronted Kristopher¡¯s cold stare with the boldness typical of young men. ¡°Well, yes, we are close now. Is that an issue for you?¡±
Kristopher stared coldly at Belinda.
His silence and formidable presence thickened the air around them.
Initially, Fred thought his response was sharp and impressive.
However, as the quiet stretched on, his words seemed to dissipate ineffectively, like a punchnding in soft cotton, provoking no visible reaction.
After a brief pause, Kristopher took a slow puff of his cigarette, his eyes briefly scanning Belinda cradled in Fred¡¯s embrace. ¡°Is that your final say?¡±
Belinda frowned.
She recognized that Fred was exaggerating to defend her, and to deny his statement now would undermine his pride.
But¡
She recalled how Kristopher had aggressively confronted Darren at the hospital because of her.
Fred was fit and strong, and she wasn¡¯t concerned about a physical altercation between him and Kristopher.
Her concern was that Kristopher might resort to other means to cause trouble.
As she hesitated, Fred gave a sharp, mockingugh. ¡°You know that silence is also a kind of answer, right? Belinda doesn¡¯t want to say it outright, and why do you keep pressing for the truth?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened noticeably.
¡°Need someone else to speak for you now?¡±
He extinguished his cigarette, his gaze remaining cold. ¡°Fine then.¡±
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Chapter 100
?Chapter 100:
Belinda never expected that the slightest hesitation on her part would provoke Fred into challenging Kristopher.
Those two simple words from Kristopher were enough to make her temples throb.
As things stood, she knew she needed to act. Without another thought, she stepped forward and positioned herself in front of Fred.
¡°Stop it, Kristopher! Whatever is between us has nothing to do with Fred!¡±
Fred was far too young to have his life squandered like this. Sure, Kristopher would definitely get angry at Fred, but he would also target Belinda.
Unfortunately, words had already been spoken, and Fred¡¯s remark was as good as a challenge directed at Kristopher.
And Belinda knew all too well the consequences of going against Kristopher.
She had seen it happen before, witnessing the fate of those who foolishly stood up to him. They were all prominent figures in Nawrin, too, yet their social standing did nothing to protect them from Kristopher¡¯s wrath.
What would happen to an ordinary college student like Fred? If Kristopher set his sights on the boy¡ Belinda couldn¡¯t even bear to think of the possible oue.
Kristopher¡¯s gaze seemed to darken even more at her words. He rolled up his sleeves and slowly approached them.
¡°He is your boyfriend now?¡± he asked in a cold, menacing voice, his lips curled into a cruel smirk. ¡°How can you im that he has nothing to do with us?¡±
From where he had been standing, he had only seen Belinda and Fred in an embrace. But now that they were right in front of him, Kristopher noticed that Belinda was wearing Fred¡¯s jacket.
His nostrils red, and a muscle twitched in his jaw as he gritted his teeth.
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He used to do the same thing with her, long ago.
Each time, Belinda would look up at him, her eyes wide with surprise and gratitude. Then she would sp his hand in hers and lean against his arm. Sometimes, she would nuzzle his chest.
Other times, she would stand on her tiptoes and press a kiss against his lips. She would ask him to go home in the softest of whispers, and they would be locked in a passionate embrace as soon as they walked through the door.
Those sweet moments had always been rare and few between. Worse still, Kristopher had failed to see Belinda for the gem that she was and failed to treasure her as he should have.
Now she was wearing another man¡¯s jacket. And the man was significantly younger than him.
Kristopher narrowed his eyes.
He wasn¡¯t stupid.
Of course, he knew that Fred had lied on purpose, not so much to stand up for Belinda as to provoke him.
Kristopher had been sure of that. But after seeing her in Fred¡¯s jacket, his resolve began to waver.
Belinda hadn¡¯t even been this intimate with Darren.
Was it possible¡
Kristopher drew closer, his voice deep andced with danger as he said, ¡°Belinda Nelson.¡±
¡°If you have a problem,e at me,¡± Fred interjected, pulling Belinda behind him. ¡°Don¡¯t cause her any trouble.¡±
Belinda was caught off-guard when Fred yanked her back, and she had to take a few seconds to regain her bearings. Once she did, she rushed to get in between the two men again.
The memory of Kristopher and Darren brawling in the ward was still fresh in her mind.
There had been doctors and nurses who had intervened yesterday, but right now, the streets were empty. If they did start fighting¡
No, Belinda had no ns to pay a visit to the police station!
But Fred was rooted to the spot, shielding her from her ruthless ex-husband. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I can handle this.¡±
¡°Quite a devoted puppy you have here,¡± Kristopher remarked as he pocketed his hands. He watched the couple as they struggled to protect each other, his smirk turning into a mocking grin. ¡°How old are you again, Belinda? Why are you wasting¡¡±
¡°Your time ying such childish games with this kid? Come on, you know me. I don¡¯t have to hit him myself to hurt him.¡±
Belinda froze when she heard this, a chill racing down her spine.
Fred paused too, the color draining from his face.
Just like that, Kristopher had reduced their valiant efforts into a joke.
Kristopher cocked his head to the side and stared Belinda in the eye. ¡°Or did you honestly think that you could protect each other if I decided to target the two of you?¡±
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Chapter 101
?Chapter 101:
Belinda¡¯s face slowly turned pale.
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Unable to contain his frustration at seeing Kristopher constantly picking on Belinda, Fred finally said, ¡°If you¡¯re going to hit someone, hit me! Do you think I¡¯m scared of you?¡±
Kristopherughed mockingly. ¡°You think too highly of yourself.¡± He looked closely at the young athlete standing before him, scrutinizing him as if he were a superior officer evaluating a junior.
¡°Your name is Fred Schmidt. You¡¯re 22 years old and a senior at Nawrin University¡¯s Physical Education Department, preparing for graduate studies. You were born in Blurith, over 300 miles from here. Your parents and grandparents still live there, and your sister is in high school.¡±
Kristopher recited Fred¡¯s personal information emotionlessly, his voice even and calm.
Initially, Fred remained calm.
However, as Kristopher began to mention his family back in Blurith, fear and surprise appeared in Fred¡¯s eyes.
Fred had always been private about his family, especially because his parents were disabled.
He had kept his background a secret, to the extent that even his roommate of four years, Danilo, didn¡¯t know about it.
Yet here was Kristopher, detailing his family¡¯s information, even his sister¡¯s age and specific details!
¡°Your sister is preparing for her second attempt at the college entrance exams. Her first score was¡¡±
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As Kristopher brought up his sister De Schmidt¡¯s exam results, Fred started to sweat profusely and interrupted, ¡°Stop!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s tone was still indifferent. ¡°Do you know how long it took me to find this information?¡±
Fred just stared at him, trapped and terrified, yet determined to stand his ground.
Kristopher seemed unaffected by Fred¡¯s intense gaze.
¡°My assistant found it on the way here,¡± he said, checking his watch.
¡°It only took about ten minutes.¡± Fred¡¯s thoughts disappeared into a void.
This man¡
How could he be so powerful and connected?
To know so much personal information, including the details about his family that he had tried so hard to keep hidden¡ It could be dug up so quickly, in just ten minutes?
¡°Young man,¡± Kristopher continued, his hands still tucked in his pockets as he scanned Fred¡¯s face, now a mix of anger and despair. ¡°I¡¯m not really interested in your personal life or your family. However, if you upset me,¡± he said, shing a smirk and oozing smugness, ¡°crushing you would be no harder than stepping on an ant.¡±
Then, he casually pulled out a cigarette, lit it, and looked at Belinda, whom Fred was still protecting. ¡°Belinda Nelson, I¡¯ll give you another opportunity. Tell me clearly what your rtionship is with him.¡±
The situation was unfolding in a way Belinda never expected.
She had been in love with him for five years and knew how harsh andmanding he could be in business dealings. She also knew what happened to those who crossed him in Nawrin.
Yet, this was her first time witnessing his severe and merciless nature in person.
Her hands balled into fists at her sides, then rxed, then tensed again.
After a significant pause, she nervously bit her lip, moved around Fred, and with a shaky voice dered, ¡°He and I¡ have no rtionship.¡±
d in ck, Kristopher calmly blew out a ring of smoke and smirked slightly. ¡°Is that so?¡±
¡°Yes, and everything he said was just nonsense,¡± Belinda added, biting her lip hard and trying to keep her hands from shaking. ¡°He¡¯s merely a caregiver I employed for my assistance.¡±
Kristopher took another puff of his cigarette, then stared at her with a taunting smile. ¡°Come here.¡±
Belinda inhaled deeply, nced apologetically at Fred, and quickly stepped over to Kristopher¡¯s side.
Kristopher flicked her jacket off her shoulders with a swift motion, letting it fall to the dusty ground.
He then tossed his cigarette down and stamped it out with his foot. Putting his arm around Belinda¡¯s shoulders, he made his im clear, eyeing Fred. ¡°Young man, I haven¡¯t divorced her yet. You have no right to be her lover.¡±
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Chapter 102
?Chapter 102:
The light in Fred¡¯s eyes faded abruptly.
Fred had been Belinda¡¯spanion for the day, his usual lively and chatty demeanor brightening their time together. Now, witnessing his sudden change, Belinda felt an unexpected pang of sadness. However, with Kristopher there, she was at a loss for words tofort him.
After a brief silence, she turned to Kristopher and asked, ¡°If you don¡¯t want him with us, could you drive me home?¡±
Without a word, Kristopher coldly let go of her hand and moved towards the car.
¡°Fred.¡±
Belinda took a deep breath, her lips tightening as she faced the dejected man before her. ¡°Madisyn has your number, right? I¡¯ll have her send your payment soon.¡±
She sighed deeply, adding softly, ¡°Thank you for taking care of me today.¡±
Then, turning away, Belinda opened the car door and stepped inside. The ck Maserati sped away, soon vanishing from Fred¡¯s sight. As the sound of the engine receded, the night air whispered around him.
Fred remained still, gazing long into the distance where the car had disappeared, before letting out a deep breath.
He meandered to the spot where Belinda and Kristopher had stood earlier, picked up his ck and white coat, and dusted it off.
Suddenly, he noticed several strands of curly, soft cat hair on the coat¡ªsome white, some brown.
The thought of Belinda¡¯s cat, Fluffy, struck him, and his eyes snapped wide open. He hastily took out his phone and sent a message to Madisyn on WhatsApp. ¡°Could you give me Belinda¡¯s number? I need to talk to her about something!¡±
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The Maserati came to a stop outside an apartment building.
¡°Get out.¡±
Kristopher¡¯smand was icy as the car stopped.
Belinda reached to open the door, only to realize it was locked. She had barely processed this when the driver quietly got out of the car.
As she pieced together Kristopher¡¯s intentions, it was already toote. In an instant, she was forced back against the leather seat.
Kristopher¡¯s presence was overwhelming; his strong body pinned her down, one hand securing her wrists above her head, the other gripping her chin,pelling her to face him.
¡°Why do you care so much about that young man?¡± he demanded. His voice was low and sinister. ¡°It¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve seen you defend a man like this in my presence.¡±
Pinned in ce, Belinda could only look up at him.
The driver hadn¡¯t turned on the interior lights, leaving the car cloaked in shadows. The only illumination came from the streetmps outside, casting a dim glow that sharpened the angles of his face, adding a menacing air to his expression.
She took a deep breath to steady herself and met his gaze firmly. ¡°Madisyn met him at the bar. I barely know him. He was asked to take care of me in the hospital by his friend. I defended him because I didn¡¯t want to feel too indebted.¡±
¡°Really?¡±
A sneer crossed Kristopher¡¯s face as his hand shifted from her jaw to her corbone, caressing it softly. ¡°What¡¯s wrong today, Mrs. Cox? Why did you need thepany of a young, athletic student?¡±
Belinda involuntarily tensed.
Kristopher often used the formal address ¡°Mrs. Cox¡± during their intimate moments, a reminder of her formal identity¡ªdistant yet possessive.
Hearing him use it now made his intentions clear in her mind. She swallowed hard, her voice raspy with tension. ¡°Kristopher, we¡¯re going to get a divorce.¡±
With a sly grin and a husky voice, Kristopher responded, ¡°You missed our appointment today. Do you really want a divorce?¡±
He then leaned in closer, his lips grazing her corbone in a feigned tender gesture.
His kiss descended further, but then, suddenly, he paused. In the scant moonlight filtering through the window, he spotted two dark red marks on her corbone. The semnce of romance that had built in the dimly lit car evaporated in an instant.
¡°Get out of here!¡± Anger reced the extinguished desire in Kristopher as he jerked his hand away and straightened up.
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Chapter 103
?Chapter 103:
Belinda had already closed her eyes, resigned to whatever Kristopher would do to her.
She had shed her illusions about him and was determined to divorce him.
Yet, his allure in moments of passion was undeniable.
They had shared three years of marriage, and she had always been satisfied with their intimacy. Thus, when he approached her again, her resolve wavered. She decided to surrender to her desires onest time before cutting ties.
However, unexpectedly, he ceased his advances shortly after they began.
Confused, she opened her eyes and met his gaze. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±
¡°Miss Nelson, it appears you¡¯ve been quite entertained by otherstely,¡± Kristopher sneered, casting a pointed look at her corbone. ¡°Is it Darren or that student?¡±
His usation deepened her confusion.
She nced down, instinctively examining her corbone.
There, she noticed two distinct red marks.
Suddenly, the pieces clicked. Kristopher had misinterpreted the marks. They were not hickeys. The day before, Madisyn had persuaded her to visit a massage parlor, where an inexperienced masseur had left those marks.
In a gesture of apology, the owner had waived their fee and presented them with small gifts.
Madisyn had joked that the marks might provoke Kristopher¡¯s anger if she went through with the divorce.
At the time, Belinda hadn¡¯t taken her friend seriously. She hadn¡¯t anticipated such a stark misinterpretation from Kristopher.
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This revtion brought augh from her.
It seemed that Madisyn, who never missed a chance to criticize Kristopher, understood him better than anyone else did.
Kristopher¡¯s expression chilled when he saw her amusement. She had used him of infidelity, ming Cathy for their marital strife.
Yet here she was, seemingly involved with someone else, marked by alleged love bites, andughing amidst the memories.
This thought tightened his grip on his tie in frustration. ¡°Get out!¡±
¡°Okay,¡± Belinda responded, snapping back to reality. She chose not to rify the origin of the marks. She straightened her hoodie, opened the door, and stepped out of the car.
Their rtionship had been purely physicaltely, but her need for it was waning.
Belinda decided it was best not to be intimate with him now. After mming the car door, she marched toward the entrance of the apartment building.
Her phone rang just a few stepster. She frowned and checked the disy¡ªan unknown number was calling.
Given her recent flurry of applications to jewelry design studios, she was used to unknown callers. Without hesitation, she answered.
¡°Belinda, it¡¯s me,¡± came Fred¡¯s anxious voice. This content belongs to find?novel
¡°I got your number from Madisyn,¡± he added quickly.
Belinda paused, her eyes instinctively darting toward Kristopher¡¯s car in the distance.
The car remained still, idly parked without any sign of departure.
Maybe it was because the driver hadn¡¯t returned yet.
She sighed. ¡°Madisyn is always so¡¡±
She stopped herself, then spoke with firm resolve. ¡°Fred, I thought I made myself clear. Why are you still contacting me?¡±
¡°Belinda,¡± Fred interrupted, his voice filled with earnestness. ¡°Please, don¡¯t misunderstand. I¡¯m not trying to pester you. There¡¯s something you need to know¡ Your cat, Fluffy, might be in the hands of your ex-husband.¡±
Belinda¡¯s voice trembled with surprise. ¡°What did you say?¡±
Fred exined quickly, ¡°When I went to pick up my jacket earlier, I noticed cat fur on it. You¡¯re wearingpletely new clothes today, and neither of us has been near Fluffy. Only the three of us were there. Who else could have gotten the cat fur?¡±
With a sudden sense of urgency, Belinda spun around.
The lights of Kristopher¡¯s Maserati had juste on, signaling his imminent departure.
¡°Thank you, Fred,¡± she whispered sharply. Then, taking a deep breath, she sprinted toward the car.
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Chapter 104
?Chapter 104:
¡°Sir, Mrs. Cox is approaching,¡± the driver announced.
No sooner had he maneuvered the vehicle to turn around than he noticed Belinda sprinting toward them. Her figure grewrger in the rearview mirror.
¡°Leave her be,¡± Kristophermanded, his brow furrowed as he tried to steal a moment¡¯s rest, eyes shut.
Belinda had been so resolute when she left. What could have made her chase after the car so suddenly?
¡°But, sir¡¡± The driver hesitated. Chapters first released on FindN()vel
With a worried press of the pedal, the driver elerated, watching Belinda¡¯s figure shrink in the rearview mirror. Then, unexpectedly, Belinda stumbled and fell.
The driver, concern etching his features, leaned in and spoke in a hushed tone, ¡°Mrs. Cox fell down.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened. He swiftly turned to nce at the rearview mirror, only to realize how far they had driven from Belinda. He watched through the ss as she slowly picked herself up from the ground.
¡°Why are we speeding?¡± he demanded, his voice icy as he shot a stern look at the driver. ¡°Turn the car around,¡± he ordered sharply.
The driver bowed his head, exhaling a silent sigh before quietly reversing the car.
He hadn¡¯t been speeding, not really. It had been a normal pace. Yet, moments ago, Kristopher had instructed him to ignore Belinda, and now he was facing his reproach.
Belinda struggled to her feet, wincing from the difort.
Thankfully, the road was paved, sparing her from dirt or mud stains. Despite the fall, sharp stones and sand hadn¡¯t scratched her skin. Still, she couldn¡¯t catch up to Kristopher.
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If only Fred had called her sooner, or if she had managed to dy Kristopher just a little longer¡
Suddenly, a bright light shed before her eyes. Instinctively, she shielded them with her hand.
It took her a moment to adjust, and when she did, she saw it was Kristopher¡¯s car returning.
The car slowed beside her, and the rear window descended to reveal Kristopher¡¯s impassive yet striking face. ¡°Is there something you need?¡± he asked, his voice cool.
Eyes wide, Belinda blurted out, ¡°Yes, yes!¡±
Hastily, she opened the car door and climbed in, more flustered than before. Kristopher watched her with an icy stare for a moment before turning his gaze forward, his expression unreadable. ¡°I¡¯m not really feeling it anymore.¡±
Trying to lighten the mood, Belinda forced a smile, tugged at her hoodie¡¯s cor, and mimicked what the masseuse had done the previous day, creating a mark that resembled a hickey near the two existing marks.
Then, she gestured to the three marks on her corbone and asked, ¡°Could you look at these and tell if they¡¯re all the same?¡±
Peering at her enticing corbone and smooth skin, Kristopher wore aplex expression.
Eager to cate him, Belinda smiled and exined, ¡°I went to the massage parlor yesterday, and Madisyn chose a rather questionable masseuse for me. That¡¯s how I ended up with these red marks.¡±
Kristopher appeared skeptical. ¡°What was so funny just now?¡± He vividly recalled her joyful smile.
With an awkward grin, Belinda borated, ¡°It¡¯s just that these marks could easily be misunderstood. Yesterday, as we left the massage parlor, Madisyn joked that you might mistake them for hickeys. I guess that¡¯s why Iughed just now¡¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression soured. Yet, the atmosphere in the car grew slightly warmer.
After a moment, he turned his gaze forward, annoyance tinged his voice. ¡°She¡¯s always causing trouble.¡±
Belinda felt a wave of relief knowing he believed her and sighed inwardly.
¡°Well, I heard your exnation.¡±
Looking down and casually rolling up his shirt sleeves, Kristopher responded indifferently, ¡°You rushed to catch up with my car just to rify this? Are you suggesting we pick up where we left off earlier?¡±
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Chapter 105
?Chapter 105:
Belinda paused, quickly shaking her head, and stammered, ¡°No, I¡¡±
Before she could finish, Kristopher had already stepped out of the car. Puzzled by his abrupt exit, Belinda watched as he walked around to her side, opened the door, and lifted her into his arms.
Startled, she eximed, ¡°Ah!¡± and instinctively clung to his neck.
Her reaction seemed to delight Kristopher greatly. Th?s chapter is updated by find¡¤novel
He carried her toward the entrance of her apartment building, feigning annoyance. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you¡¯d be better off without me? Why do you feel even lighter now?¡±
The lighting in the building was dim.
Resting her head against his chest, Belinda felt a swirl of emotions.
She knew she should exin, resist, and set clear boundaries.
But she had loved him for five years and been his wife for three.
She had nursed him twice¡ªonce for three months and once for six.
It wasn¡¯t easy for her to just say goodbye to such a deep connection.
Moreover, she needed to keep him happy in order to get her cat, Fluffy, back. Knowing Kristopher¡¯s nature, demanding Fluffy¡¯s location during their divorce talks could backfire.
She could drag out the divorce proceedings, wait until he was ready to propose to Cathy, wait until he couldn¡¯t wait any longer.
But Kristopher had never cared for Fluffy. He would sneer whenever he saw her with the cat and tell her to get rid of it.
She worried that pushing him too hard might lead him to actually dispose of Fluffy.
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Soon, they were inside the apartment.
Although the apartment had been cleaned earlier, Madisyn¡¯s carelessness had left many items out of ce, making it feel cramped and cluttered.
¡°I give you tens of thousands for spending money every month, and this is the ce you rent?¡± Kristopher scoffed, repeating hisint from his previous daytime visit.
Holding onto his neck, Belinda offered an embarrassed smile and replied, ¡°It feels more down-to-earth.¡±
In truth, most of her money had been spent on her stomach cancer treatment and maintaining her pregnancy, leaving little for anything else.
¡°I don¡¯t get any down-to-earth feeling, only the stench of poverty,¡± Kristopher said, frowning as he set Belinda down on the sofa. Before she could even catch her breath, he loomed over her again. He roughly tore open the cor of her hoodie and nted a forceful kiss next to the mix of old and new marks on her skin.
His intense actions caused Belinda to wince in pain.
After a moment, he pulled back to closely inspect the marks, his frustration seeming to fade.
Belinda found his actions somewhat amusing. Who would have imagined that Kristopher, a man wielding immense power in Nawrin, could show such a childish side?
Noticing the amusement in her eyes, Kristopher narrowed his own, grabbed her chin, and kissed her forcefully.
The room¡¯s temperature seemed to climb, the atmosphere turning steamy and charged.
In the throes of their passion, Kristopher whispered seductively in her ear, ¡°I thought after you moved out, Mrs. Cox, your life had be so full that you¡¯d forgotten me. But it seems¡ you¡¯re as passionate as ever.¡±
Blushing deeply, Belinda was at a loss for words. Finally, she averted her eyes from his intense stare, which seemed to devour her.
¡°Kristopher, I need to¡ ask you for a favor.¡±
Kristopher chuckled, his voice low and teasing. ¡°Ask for what? Faster or slowerter?¡±
Despite her embarrassment, Belinda remembered her main concern. ¡°Fluffy is missing. I need your help to find him.¡±
Raising an eyebrow, Kristopher¡¯s tone turned ominous. ¡°So, all this is about that stupid cat?¡±
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Chapter 106
?Chapter 106:
Belinda¡¯s eyes brimmed with unshed tears as they locked with his dark gaze, and a faint smile graced her lips. ¡°Yes.¡±
As she uttered the word, a gentle gasp escaped her as she drew him closer by wrapping her legs around his robust waist. ¡°Please, help me.¡±
Belinda was acutely aware of Kristopher¡¯s preferences, understanding exactly how to elicit a response that fed his need for dominance.
His reaction was as she anticipated.
Kristopher¡¯s breath hissed out, and a yful smirk twisted his lips. Fresh chapters posted on find?novel
¡°Alright, I¡¯ll help you find it.¡±
Then, he lowered his head to capture her lips in a fierce kiss.
The atmosphere in the cramped living room of their rented apartment thickened with intimacy¡
By dawn, Belinda feltpletely drained, nearly copsing from exhaustion.
When she opened her eyes the next morning, it was a struggle. Shey in bed, her gaze fixed on the ceiling.
Her body ached as if she had beenboring in the fields all day, leaving her with no desire to move.
¡°Oh, you¡¯re awake?¡± Kristopher¡¯s deep voice brought her back to reality. She hadn¡¯t realized he was still in the room until then.
Surprised, she lifted her eyebrows and instinctively turned toward the sound. ¡°You didn¡¯t leave?¡±
He had changed into a silver-gray suit and was sitting with his legs crossed, his eyes observing her.
Hisugh was a scoff at her query. ¡°It seems you¡¯re not too pleased with me staying?¡±
I??¨¨$? ¡é??t?€§ñ? 1n ??l¦Ðo¦Í¦Ål?.c??
Her voice was raspy from the night¡¯s passion as she shook her head. ¡°No, it¡¯s just different from before.¡±
At the Swan Lake vi, regardless of how intense their nights were, she would wake up alone every morning.
She had assumed today would be no different, but he was still there.
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened slightly, but he remained silent. The room was filled with an awkward stillness.
Belinda forced her sore body out of bed. ¡°Do you want breakfast?¡±
Her stomach rumbled slightly.
¡°Marc¡¯s brought some.¡±
He shot her a cold nce before striding toward the living room. ¡°If I wait for you to make it, I¡¯d starve.¡±
Belinda rolled her eyes, gathered the clothes he had torn off her the previous night from the floor, and tossed them into theundry basket. She then found fresh clothes, got dressed, and washed up.
By the time she entered the living room, Kristopher had already finished his meal.
On the dining table, her breakfast was waiting.
Belinda approached the table and began to eat voraciously.
Kristopher observed her from across the table, his brow furrowing. ¡°You weren¡¯t like this before.¡±
Previously, Belinda had always eaten with slow, elegant movements, each gesture at the table a testament to the strict etiquette of high society, rigid in every aspect.
¡°I was just pretending before,¡± Belinda replied, shrugging nonchntly as she continued to eat, unconcerned about maintaining her polished image. ¡°I don¡¯t feel like pretending anymore.¡±
In the past, she had strived to embody the role of a dignified, steady, gentle, and gracious woman. She had aimed not to tarnish the title of Mrs. Cox or bring any disgrace to Kristopher.
Now, disinterested in Kristopher and the title, she felt no need to uphold any facade.
Kristopher watched her eat with ack of decorum, amusement flickering in his eyes. This Belinda, unbound by the strictures that once defined Mrs. Cox, seemed far more real.
Ten minutester, after she had polished off thest bite of her sandwich, Kristopher spoke in a detached tone. ¡°Finish up ande with me.¡±
She paused, looking up mid-chew, and frowned. ¡°Where to?¡±
He raised an eyebrow and gave her a pointed look. ¡°Do you remember what you begged me forst night?¡±
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Chapter 107
?Chapter 107:
Belinda paused, then suddenly remembered. ¡°Fluffy!¡±
She rose quickly, piecing together that Kristopher was likely to return Fluffy to her.
To mask her realization that Fluffy was indeed with Kristopher, she feigned astonishment. ¡°Did you manage to find Fluffy for me?¡±
Kristopher reclined in his chair, his tone indifferent. ¡°First, I have a few questions.¡±
¡°What questions?¡±
He narrowed his eyes, examining Belinda with a critical gaze. ¡°The phone call you made to me two nights ago, what was that about? And why did you ignore my calls after that?¡±
Taken aback by his directness, Belinda stumbled for an excuse. ¡°I dialed the wrong number. When I saw you had called back, I didn¡¯t know how to exin, so I chose not to answer.¡±
His expression grew colder. ¡°Who were you trying to call? Darren Wright?¡±
Belinda quickly shook her head. ¡°No.¡±
¡°Not him?¡±
He scoffed. ¡°That very night, after you dodged my call, I saw Darren rushing out of the restaurant. Later, I spotted him outside your apartment. Are you telling me your call wasn¡¯t for him?¡±
Belinda was momentarily stunned, struggling to gather her thoughts. ¡°You were at my apartment that night too?¡±
¡°When you called and then said nothing, and didn¡¯t respond when I called back, I worried something had happened to you. So, I came to check on you.¡±
Kristopher let out a cold snort. ¡°I certainly didn¡¯t expect to find Darren leaving your ce, telling me you were already asleep.¡±
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Her mind buzzed with confusion.
After Darren escorted her to the hospital, he had returned to her apartment to find her medication log. That must have been when Kristopher encountered Darren.
Yet, she had clearly asked Darren the previous day whether he had seen Fluffy during his subsequent visit to her apartment.
He mentioned not seeing Fluffy and said nothing about meeting Kristopher.
¡°Belinda.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s voice jolted her back to the moment as he peered intently at her. ¡°Were you actually asleep at that time?¡±
Quickly, she shook her head, a firm denial. ¡°No, no.¡±
She couldn¡¯t grasp why Darren had informed Kristopher that she was asleep.
Sote at night, a man leaving a woman¡¯s apartment and iming she was already asleep¡ Didn¡¯t that just invite misunderstanding?
Kristopher¡¯s icy gaze bore into her. ¡°Then Darren telling me you wanted to sever ties with your past and didn¡¯t even want the cat we raised together, insisting I take Fluffy back¡ was that your doing?¡±
Belinda felt as if her head might burst.
So, Fluffy hadn¡¯t been lost but had been handed over to Kristopher by Darren that night?
No wonder Darren had sounded off when she had called him twice yesterday about Fluffy.
She had thought he was merely exhausted from staying up with her all night.
It appeared now he was wracked with guilt!
With this realization, she shook her head vigorously. ¡°I didn¡¯t know! I never said I didn¡¯t want Fluffy, nor was I aware he told you that! That night, I wasn¡¯t even home. He came to pick up some things for me. I had no idea he met you or that he handed Fluffy over and said such things¡ I¡¡±
She bit her lip, her voice thick with emotion as she continued, ¡°Yesterday, Madisyn spent all day looking for Fluffy, and I searched all night. Last night, out of desperation, I even thought of asking you for help¡ If I had really told him to give Fluffy to you, I wouldn¡¯t have needed to ask you¡¡± Fresh chapters posted on find{n}ovel
Seeing Belinda¡¯s tear-filled eyes, Kristopher arched an eyebrow, a hint of satisfaction in his tone. ¡°So, that night, nothing happened between you and Darren?¡±
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Chapter 108
?Chapter 108:
Belinda quickly shook her head. ¡°Nothing happened.¡±
Much to her dismay, Fluffy had been given to Kristopher by Darren. Observing her panic-stricken and sorrowful face, Kristopher couldn¡¯t suppress a smile.
Indeed, ever since she had requested his help to locate the cat the previous night, he had suspected Darren was not being truthful. Her clear response now unexpectedly brought him satisfaction.
He stood up and said, ¡°I was under the impression you no longer cared for Fluffy.¡±
Belinda shook her head vigorously and reached for a tissue to wipe her face. ¡°How could I possibly not want him?¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? f?ndnovel
The little cat represented herst bit of emotional attachment and dependence in the world. She might consider giving up on herself, but never on Fluffy.
Kristopher noticed Belinda¡¯s eyes were red. He smirked and walked over, casually draping an arm around her shoulders. ¡°Let¡¯s go find him now,¡± he suggested, guiding her toward the door.
Belinda sniffled and followed him out without thinking.
It was only when they entered the elevator that she managed to gather her emotions.
Onceposed, she realized she was still in the elevator with Kristopher¡¯s arm around her shoulders.
The closeness felt too intimate, especially for a couple on the verge of divorce.
She bit her lip, feeling the impulse to remove his arm.
However, as she began to move, Kristopher tightened his grip.
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¡°Changed your mind about Fluffy?¡±
Fluffy was always her vulnerability.
Though confused by Kristopher¡¯s intimate behavior, given their impending divorce, she didn¡¯t resist.
Over the past three years, Kristopher had assumed many such liberties with her, making this moment feel all too familiar.
At that moment, her primary concern was to retrieve Fluffy.
Thus, she found herself sitting in the car, Kristopher¡¯s arm still nonchntly resting around her shoulders.
Half an hourter, they arrived at the Swan Lake vi.
As she looked at the familiarndscape through the car window, Belinda was flooded with emotions.
It had been over half a month since she left this ce with Fluffy following her miscarriage, vowing never to return.
Yet here she was¡
¡°Get out!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s deep voice broke into her reverie.
Belinda inhaled deeply and stepped out of the car. Just as she began to walk toward the door, arge hand sped her arm.
She paused, assuming Kristopher was about to put his arm around her shoulder again, so she stopped and waited.
However, this time, he took her hand and led her toward the entrance of the vi.
The warmth from his palm radiated through Belinda¡¯s hand, causing her to frown and nce at the man beside her, puzzled by his intentions.
Such physical contact had been rare between them before.
Why now¡?
¡°Kristopher, you¡¯re back!¡±
A clear female voice suddenly shattered Belinda¡¯s train of thought. She quickly came to her senses and noticed that Kristopher had already opened the door of the vi.
Standing inside was Cathy, smiling broadly.
Her hair was pulled back into a high ponytail, and she was dressed in light pink loungewearplemented by a Hello Kitty apron, spat in hand.
It was evident that Cathy had settled in and was preparing breakfast for Kristopher.
The scene filled Belinda with a sense of bitterness.
This ce, once her marital home with Kristopher, was a repository of their few joyful memories.
She had not anticipated that Kristopher would allow Cathy to move in so swiftly.
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
Upon seeing the person beside Kristopher at the door, the initial excitement in Cathy¡¯s eyes quickly turned to coldness and jealousy. ¡°Why did you bring Miss Nelson here?¡±
Belinda instinctively withdrew her hand from Kristopher¡¯s hold. ¡°I¡¯m here to retrieve my cat.¡±
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Chapter 109
?Chapter 109:
Cathy turned to Belinda in confusion and raised an eyebrow. ¡°Your cat?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Belinda nodded. ¡°The cat that I included in the divorce agreement.¡±
She was already walking past Cathy, heading into the vi to call out for Fluffy.
Along the way, Belinda identally brushed shoulders with Cathy.
The contact was very light, barely worth noticing, yet Cathy acted as if Belinda had bodily rammed into her. She clutched her shoulder and took a few steps back, her eyes welling up with tears. ¡°What are you doing, Miss Nelson?¡±
Belinda gave her one cold nce before continuing with her search. The first thing she noticed when she entered the living room was how theyout and interior decor had been changed.
The center wall, where Belinda and Kristopher¡¯s wedding photo had once hung, now disyed Cathy¡¯s portrait. The overall palette of the fixtures had also shifted from vintage brown to Cathy¡¯s favorite pink. The ce no longer contained any traces of Belinda having ever lived there, a testament to Kristopher¡¯s limitless indulgence of Cathy.
This was more or less within Belinda¡¯s expectations. Even so, seeing the vi she once called home change so drastically in just half a month brought her a pang of sorrow. Taking a deep breath, she swallowed all the sadness and regrets back and continued calling for Fluffy.
Cathy remained at the doorway, her hand still cupped over her shoulder, her face still twisted in false pain. ¡°Ah, it hurts¡¡±
¡°Cathy.¡± Kristopher walked up to her with a frown. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±
Cathy paused and bit her lower lip, fresh tears springing into her eyes. ¡°I had a fight with Mom, so I ran away from home. Maggie told me that this ce has been empty since Miss Nelson moved out, so I¡¡±
She hesitated, looking up at him with her wide, pitiful eyes, and made her lips quiver. ¡°You¡¯re not mad at me, are you, Kristopher?¡±
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Kristopher closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call first to tell me you had no ce to stay? I could have made arrangements for you to stay somewhere else.¡±
Cathy gritted her teeth. ¡°Am I an inconvenience here?¡±
Kristopher nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve beening home to this ce recently.¡±
For some reason, he had grown particrly fond of this ce and spent almost every night here, with Fluffy also settled in the vi. For Cathy to move in without so much as a warning¡ He would be forced to stay in another one of his properties.
¡°But it should be all good!¡± Cathy eximed, her face suddenly bright with excitement. ¡°This vi is huge. We can both live here, right?¡±
The truth of the matter was that Cathy had barged into the vi precisely because she knew Kristopher had been staying here. She also had an inkling that he was likely missing his time with Belinda, hence the impromptu transformation.
If this ce held all the memories of Belinda, then Cathy would just have to rece them with new memories ¡ª this time, of hers and Kristopher.
¡°It isn¡¯t appropriate,¡± Kristopher said with a weary sigh. ¡°Fine, whatever. You can stay if you want.¡±
With that, he walked through the door and stepped into the living room. The sight that greeted him deepened his frown into a scowl. ¡°Did you do this? All by yourself?¡± Follow current nov?ls on find[f]ovel
He had only been away for one night, and he no longer recognized his own home!
¡°Maggie and I decorated it together!¡± Cathy said cheerfully, totally unfazed. ¡°Do you like it?¡±
She sidled up next to him and pouted her lips. ¡°I never saw Miss Nelson¡¯s cat, though,¡± she said, casting a pointed nce upstairs, where Belinda was. ¡°Didn¡¯t she take it when she moved out? Why is she looking for it here? Or maybe¡ is she really here for the cat, or is she just making up an excuse to get close to you?¡±
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Chapter 110
?Chapter 110:
Hearing that, Kristopher raised his eyebrows. ¡°When you moved in¡ didn¡¯t you see Fluffy?¡±
Cathy, taken aback, replied, ¡°That cat¡ is really here?¡±
Noticing her shock, Kristopher¡¯s expression hardened. He bypassed her and ascended the stairs quickly, with Belinda trailing behind. Cathy left the spat on the counter and hurried after him.
¡°Kristopher, have you had anything to eat yet? I¡¯m stewing meat in the pot. Would you care for some?¡±
Meanwhile, Belinda scanned the room anxiously for Fluffy. She had spent three years living in this vi. Once, she had known it better than anyone else.
Now, with the pink decorations and furnishings Cathy favored, the ce felt alien and somewhat suffocating to her.
Even Kristopher¡¯s study, once a ce of untouched order, was now awash in pink.
Back when Belinda and Kristopher were together, he strictly forbade her from altering anything in his study, iming that the chaos of rearranged items made important things hard to find.
Thus, whenever she entered to clean, Belinda moved carefully, fearing that any misced item might displease Kristopher, who treated her like an outsider.
But now, after her departure, Kristopher had let another woman not only move in but also transform his sacred space.
It was clear that, in Kristopher¡¯s view, she was just a visitor, unlike Cathy.
With this realization, Belinda inhaled deeply, pushing down the rising tide of emotions. She began calling out for Fluffy with renewed vigor. She reminded herself that this was no longer her home. Who Kristopher chose to share it with and how it was decorated were no longer her concerns.
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She swore that once she found Fluffy, she would never return.
However, Fluffy was nowhere to be seen.
After several thorough searches of the vi, Belinda¡¯s hope began to wane. Taking another deep breath, she walked toward Kristopher and asked seriously, ¡°Are you absolutely sure Fluffy is here?¡±
¡°There¡¯s no reason for me to lie,¡± Kristopher responded, his brow furrowed.
He recalled the night he took Fluffy with him; the cat had been a bit grubby. He had intended to take Fluffy for a cleaning at the pet hospital but found that all the clinics were closed at that hour.
At that time, his assistant Marc, who had experience with cats, suggested that Fluffy had previously thrived at the Swan Lake vi. He advised that it would be best to bring Fluffy back here. So, Kristopher had brought the cat to the vi overnight.
He vividly remembered arriving with Fluffy in his arms; as soon as he opened the door, the cat darted into the vi and began frolicking in the living room, visibly delighted.
¡°Then where is my Fluffy?¡± Belinda¡¯s voice rose, tinged with desperation.
The more adamant Kristopher became, the greater Belinda¡¯s frustration.
She had been searching for Fluffy all night, and although she had finally uncovered clues that led to Kristopher taking the cat, Fluffy was nowhere to be found!
¡°Why are you looking at Kristopher like that, as if he¡¯s done something wrong?¡± Cathy¡¯s patience wore thin. She crossed her arms and scoffed. ¡°Wasn¡¯t that cat more important to you than anything else? How could you let it disappear? I¡¯ve been here sincest night, and I haven¡¯t seen your cat anywhere!¡±
¡°Cathy!¡± Kristopher intervened in a stern voice, aware of how significant Fluffy was to Belinda. ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡±
With a pout, Cathy turned and walked downstairs. ¡°Fine, take your time. I¡¯ll be in the kitchen cooking. I¡¯m still stewing meat in the pot.¡±
A chill ran through Belinda at those words. A dreadful thought shed through her mind¡
In the next moment, she rushed to Cathy and blocked her path. ¡°You¡¯re stewing meat in the pot? What kind of meat is it?¡±
Cathy paused, then realized why Belinda was so rmed. A mischievous smile yed on her lips as she teased, ¡°Guess. Is it cat meat?¡±
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Chapter 111
?Chapter 111:
Cat meat¡
At those words, Belinda copsedpletely.
Her mind shattered in an instant. With a wild look in her eyes, she lunged at Cathy, her hands wing at Cathy¡¯s throat. ¡°Exin yourself! What are you cooking in that pot? Tell me! Is it my Fluffy? If you¡¯ve got a beef with me, take it out on me! Why take it out on a defenseless cat?¡±
Cathy had only meant to provoke Belinda with her words, but the ferocity of her reaction left her genuinely shocked.
Her face drained of color, and she grappled desperately with Belinda¡¯s hands, seeking help. She turned her pleading eyes toward Kristopher, gasping, ¡°Kristopher¡¡±
With swift strides, Kristopher was at their side, pulling Belinda¡¯s hands away. ¡°Let her go, Belinda!¡±
Belinda red at him, her voice tinged with anger. ¡°But she killed my Fluffy!¡±
¡°Cathy was just kidding around. She¡¯s not capable of that!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression was stern as he responded, ¡°Cathy¡¯s a gentle soul, hardly able to grip a knife properly. How could she possibly harm Fluffy? Just calm down.¡±
Her initial fury subsiding, Belinda paused, struck by his words.
She had been foolish.
Even if Cathy had harbored any ill will towards Fluffy, she certainly wouldn¡¯t have carried out such an act herself¡ let alone cook the evidence.
The fire in Belinda¡¯s eyes slowly faded, and the grip she had on Cathy¡¯s neck eased. Regret started to seep into her tone.
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Before she could utter the words ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± a glint of spite shed in Cathy¡¯s eyes.
In a swift movement, Cathy shoved Belinda forcefully.
They were at the top of the staircase on the second floor, and Belinda was precariously positioned with her back to the steps.
Losing her footing from the shove, Belinda tumbled backwards down the stairs.
¡°Belinda!¡±
Kristopher, seeing her peril, instinctively reached out to catch her, but he was toote.
Belinda¡¯s slender frame cascaded down the staircase,ing to a harsh stop at the bottom.
¡°Belinda!¡±
Witnessing the fall, a chill ran through Kristopher¡¯s eyes.
He hurried down the stairs.
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
He had barely descended two steps when a cry halted him. Cathy clutched her neck and crumpled to the floor with a heavy thud. Her voice quivered as she gasped, ¡°My stomach hurts so much. I can¡¯t breathe¡ It feels like I¡¯m dying¡¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression turned icy, his gaze involuntarily drawn downstairs.
Belinda was slowly rising from the floor.
Whereas Cathyy sprawled, herplexion ghostly pale, looking as though she might lose consciousness at any moment.
After a moment¡¯s hesitation, Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed and he turned back upstairs. He gently lifted Cathy from the floor and asked, ¡°Are you okay, Cathy?¡±
Meanwhile, downstairs, Belinda felt as though every organ in her body had shifted, her head spinning as if bludgeoned by a heavy club.
She clung to the handrail, fighting to stand.
Gazing up at the scene above, a sneer curled her lips.
It was Cathy who had shoved her down the stairs, yet there Kristopher stood, cradling Cathy with such concern that one might think Cathy was the victim.
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice, frail and breathless as shey in his arms, barely carried downstairs. ¡°Leave me¡ please look after Miss Nelson¡ She looks seriously hurt¡¡± Find the newest release on fin?novel
Observing Belinda, who had stood up and was now rubbing her knees at the bottom of the stairs, Kristopher furrowed his brow and said, ¡°Leave her be. She¡¯s all right.¡±
Belinda¡¯s hand, which had been soothing her knees, paused momentarily.
It was a miracle she hadn¡¯t broken her legs tumbling from such a height!
Yet Kristopher dismissed it lightly, iming she was fine?
¡°I¡¯m d to hear she¡¯s unharmed¡¡± Cathy went on weakly. ¡°Kristopher, I swear I didn¡¯t mean to shove Miss Nelson¡ She was choking me, tightening her grip. I couldn¡¯t catch my breath¡ That¡¯s why I instinctively pushed her¡¡±
Tears overwhelmed the woman as she pleaded, ¡°Will Miss Nelson hold this against me?¡±
¡°No, she won¡¯t.¡±
Cathy bit her lip and said in a pleading tone, ¡°Your words aren¡¯t enough. I need Miss Nelson to say it to me directly¡¡±
With a sigh, Kristopher nced at the woman below and called out,
¡°Belinda,e up here and reassure Cathy.¡±
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Chapter 112
?Chapter 112:
Belinda overheard the conversation between Kristopher and Cathy clearly.
When Kristopher¡¯s words reached her, Belinda scoffed and lifted her head. ¡°And why should I reassure her?¡±
¡°She feels so sad now. Just tell her you don¡¯t hold it against her for pushing you down the stairs just now,¡± Kristopher replied, his brow furrowing.
¡°Why would I not me her?¡±
With a derisiveugh, Belinda straightened and stared coldly at Kristopher and the woman he held. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t been lucky, I could have died from that fall down such high stairs. She nearly killed me and didn¡¯t even apologize. Why should I say I don¡¯t me her?¡±
Upon hearing this, Cathy¡¯s breathing quickened. She clutched her chest with a pale hand, visibly struggling for air. ¡°It¡¯s true then¡ Miss Nelson still holds a grudge¡ Kristopher¡ It¡¯s unbearable¡ I can¡¯t breathe¡¡±
Seeing Cathy grow increasingly pale in his arms, Kristopher quickly grabbed his phone and dialed a number. ¡°Come to Swan Lake vi right away and take Cathy to the hospital!¡±
After ending the call, he held Cathy closer, whisperedforting words to her, and shot Belinda a frosty look. ¡°She might have pushed you, but didn¡¯t you start it by grabbing her neck? Cathy¡¯s health is fragile. Was it really okay for you to grab her like that? You grabbed, she pushed. You¡¯re even now. Is it really that hard to say you don¡¯t me her?¡±
Hearing the man¡¯s harsh words, Belinda¡¯s lips tightened. Any remnants of the tender feelings stirred byst night¡¯s passion evaporated instantly.
With a sneer, she fixed her gaze on him and demanded, ¡°Don¡¯t you know why I grabbed her neck? She knows how much I love Fluffy, and she knew I was desperate to find him. Then she goes and taunts me, suggesting she¡¯s cooking cat meat in her stew! Yes, I lost my temper, and I shouldn¡¯t haveid hands on her. But I¡¯m aware of my own strength. There¡¯s no way my grip could have choked her! Don¡¯t believe me? Check her neck. Any bruises?¡±
Belinda¡¯s words left Cathy momentarily stunned, prompting her to instinctively cover her neck.
With a furrowed brow, Kristopher pulled Cathy¡¯s hand away to examine her neck.
It was unblemished, the skin still pale and smooth, without a single mark.
His eyes grew darker, his gaze moreplex as he turned back to Cathy.
¡°Do you see now?¡±
Turning to Kristopher, whose face had tensed, Belinda continued, ¡°I didn¡¯t squeeze hard, yet she made me tumble down the stairs. I¡¯ve been merciful enough not to call the cops on her for assault. Should I also be the one to forgive her first? You both must be out of your minds!¡±
With those final words, Belinda took a deep breath, clutching her sore legs, and limped toward the door.
It seemed that Fluffy was nowhere to be found. Belinda saw no reason to linger just to witness the couple unting their affection. As she approached the door, it swung open from the outside.
¡°Meow!¡±
Belinda¡¯s head snapped up at the sound.
It was Fluffy¡¯s voice!
¡°Mrs. Cox, what brings you here?¡±
Marc stood at the vi¡¯s doorway, astonishment written across his face, clutching a cat carrier.
Inside that carrier was Fluffy ¡ª the very cat Belinda had spent the entire day searching for! Checktest chapters at Find_Novel(.
¡°Fluffy!¡±
Ignoring the throbbing pain in her leg, Belinda dashed forward, seized the carrier, extracted Fluffy, and cradled her beloved pet.
It was indeed her Fluffy!
¡°Marc¡¡±
Upstairs, Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he released Cathy. Rising to his feet, he called out, ¡°What¡¯s happening down there? Why is Fluffy with Marc?¡±
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Chapter 113
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Marc nced upwards at Kristopher and called out, ¡°Mr. Cox, have you forgotten? The day you brought Fluffy home, you mentioned he was a bit grubby and needed a bath at the pet hospital, but by then, it was toote, and all the pet hospitals had closed. You asked me to give Fluffy a bath when I found some time.¡±
As he spoke, Marc scratched his head awkwardly. ¡°I managed to take him yesterday afternoon when I wasn¡¯t too busy. But right after I dropped him off, I got tied up with some urgent business at work andpletely forgot to pick him up. That¡¯s why he ended up staying overnight at the pet hospital.¡±
He then looked up at Cathy, who stood beside Kristopher on the upper floor. ¡°Sir, earlier when you called and mentioned Miss Miller¡¡± Marc paused as Kristopher cut him off abruptly, ¡°There¡¯s no need to worry about the hospital now.¡±
With a frown, Kristopher gave Cathy a cold stare. ¡°She¡¯s alright now.¡± Cathy bit her lip, offering a strained smile in response, but remained silent.
¡°Thank you.¡±
The words came softly from Belinda as she sniffled and carefully ced Fluffy back into his carrier. With a heartfelt tone, she added, ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you¡¡±
Fluffy could have ended up as stew in Cathy¡¯s pot.
Grateful, yet without another nce, Belinda hurried away, clutching the carrier tightly.
She hade searching for Fluffy, and thankfully, she was leaving with him safe in her arms. After retrieving Fluffy, she no longer wished to linger.
¡°Sir, this is¡¡±
Watching Belinda depart with Fluffy, Marc found himself momentarily adrift, his gaze turning instinctively toward Kristopher for direction. Observing Belinda¡¯s unsteady exit, Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Send her back,¡± hemanded crisply.
Your imagination takes flight on g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s
Marc nodded in acknowledgment and hastened after Belinda.
The vi door swung shut.
Now, only Kristopher and Cathy remained in the expansive vi, enveloped in a silence that was both quiet and awkward.
Cathy, feeling the weight of the moment, moistened her lips and turned toward Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher¡¡±
¡°You did it on purpose just now,¡± Kristopher used sharply, his eyes narrowing as he nced toward the staircase Belinda had recently tumbled down. ¡°She meant no harm, yet you pushed her.¡±
Flustered, Cathy stuttered, ¡°I was feeling rather overwhelmed at that moment¡ You understand, my stomach cancer¡¡±
¡°Cathy.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s voice cut through the silence. As he turned to face her, his gaze was icy. ¡°Does stomach cancer make it hard for you to breathe?¡±
Cathy¡¯splexion faded to a ghostly white.
¡°I haven¡¯t yet reviewed your medical records from abroad.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he scrutinized her with a chilling stare.
¡°I¡¯ve secured the world¡¯s top oncologist to treat your stomach cancer, yet your medical records remain elusive.¡±
His eyes narrowed, intensifying with suspicion. ¡°Are you truly in the advanced stages of stomach cancer?¡±
Shock flitted across Cathy¡¯s face, her eyes widening in rm.
She quickly averted her gaze, her head bowing under the weight of her guilt. ¡°Kristopher, I have no reason to lie to you about this¡ My medical records¡ We should have them in a few days.¡±
Meanwhile, after Belinda and her dog Fluffy returned home, she copsed onto the sofa and yanked off her pants.
Her legs, a patchwork of bruises from a recent tumble down the stairs, throbbed painfully.
She retrieved a medicine box and began to gently dab ointment on the affected areas. Just then, her phone erupted into a ring.
It was Marlene. ¡°Belinda, that female patient¡¯s attorney needs to meet with you immediately. They¡¯re proposing a potentially lucrative partnership.¡±
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Chapter 114
?Chapter 114:
¡°Now?¡± Belinda asked, gazing down at her bruised leg with a frown. ¡°Does it really have to be now?¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? f?ndnovel
Though her injuries were minor, they still pained her whenever she moved.
Marlene sighed, her voice tinged with embarrassment. ¡°Yes, it seems it must be now.¡±
Hearing the hesitation in Marlene¡¯s voice, Belinda sighed in return.
¡°Alright, ask herwyer to call me.¡±
The call from thewyer came shortly thereafter.
As she continued to apply ointment to her leg, Belinda frowned deeper and scheduled a meeting with thewyer.
Once everything was arranged, her curiosity got the better of her. ¡°What exactly is this cooperation about?¡± she asked.
Thewyer smiled and answered, ¡°You¡¯ll find out at our meeting.¡±
After ending the call and while still tending to her wound, Belinda mulled over the possible nature of their discussion. What, she wondered, could two individuals battling advanced gastric cancer have to coborate on? Perhaps something as morbid as choosing their final resting ces?
A few hourster, Belinda arrived at the meeting ce as agreed and met thewyer.
¡°My client would like you to share your medical records with her,¡± thewyer, Cyril Tucker, exined as they sat in a private dining room in Nawrin.
Cyril, dressed sharply in a suit, handed over a document. ¡°She needs the medical record of a gastric cancer patient to disguise her actual health condition. We¡¯ve examined the records at Peace Hospital, and yours is the ideal candidate.¡±
Belinda raised her eyebrows, took the document, and looked up in surprise. ¡°But doesn¡¯t she have the same illness? Why use my medical records?¡±
1@?€$? ¡é#4??€?$ 1? g??novels.c?m
Cyril adjusted his sses, looking somewhat perplexed himself. ¡°I¡¯m not entirely sure. It could be that she wants to keep her real condition a secret from certain people. Given her high-profile position and the scrutiny she¡¯s under, she probably feels she has no other option.¡±
Belinda frowned, pondering the implications. ¡°I see,¡± she said slowly. If the woman had enemies, using the medical records of a terminally ill patient might allow her to mask her true state effectively.
It could indeed deceive others.
¡°Miss Nelson,¡± Cyril began, gesturing toward the document on the table.
Belinda, without raising any objections, watched as he pointed out specific terms.
¡°We¡¯ve brokered a deal with the hospital. By signing here, your medical records will be transferred to her possession. And don¡¯t worry, your treatment will continue as usual. She will also take care of all your medical expenses. However, there is a stiption: you must neither investigate her identity nor mention to anyone that she is using your medical records. In exchange, she will provide a generous monthly payment to you.¡±
Cyril then directed her attention to the signature line. ¡°If everything is to your satisfaction, please sign here.¡±
Belinda¡¯s expression grew thoughtful as she reviewed the document once more. After a moment, she picked up the pen but hesitated, looking up at Cyril with resolve.
¡°I have one condition before I proceed,¡± she stated firmly.
¡°Please, go ahead,¡± Cyril encouraged, giving her his full attention.
Taking a deep breath, Belinda met his gaze squarely. ¡°I require mutual anonymity. If she is to remain unknown to me, the same must apply to her regarding my identity. It¡¯s only fair that she also remains in the dark about who I am.¡±
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Chapter 115
?Chapter 115:
Perhaps Cyril hadn¡¯t anticipated Belinda making such a request. After a brief silence, he picked up his phone and stepped outside. ¡°I¡¯ll talk it over with my client.¡±
Once Cyril left, Belinda reclined in her chair and casually scrolled through her phone.
News of Cathy was everywhere.
Under every piece of news about Cathy, Kristopher¡¯s name kept popping up.
¡°When will Kristopher marry Cathy?¡±
¡°They¡¯ve been in love for three years. I can¡¯t wait to see their wedding.¡±
¡°I heard Mr. Cox is nning to propose to Miss Miller. How exciting.¡±
In the past, reading suchments would have made Belinda ufortable, and she would have taken steps to remove them.
But now¡
She smiled as she went through and liked eachment.
She was genuinely curious about the scale of the uing proposal.
It should be less than a week left.
¡°Miss Nelson.¡±
Cyril returned from outside. ¡°My client has epted your proposal.¡± He handed her a pen as he spoke, signaling her to sign. ¡°Once you sign this, I¡¯ll head to the hospital to rify a few things with Dr. Reid.¡±
After signing, Belinda returned the document to Cyril and said, ¡°Here¡¯s to a sessful coboration.¡±
As she stepped out of the restaurant and prepared to hail a taxi home, her phone rang.
Check updates now on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í???s
It was a call from the Cox family¡¯s butler.
She was surprised and answered, ¡°Stanley?¡±
¡°Mrs. Cox,¡±
On the other end, Stanley smiled and said, ¡°Mr. Anthony Cox has insisted that I invite you to dinner! The shrimp he received from the Arctic have arrived.¡±
¡°But¡¡± Belinda paused, caught off guard.
¡°You haven¡¯t divorced Mr. Kristopher Cox, have you?¡±
The butler chuckled and continued, ¡°And even if you had, you¡¯d still be family in Mr. Anthony Cox¡¯s eyes. It¡¯s just dinner. Can you really bear to turn him down?¡±
With Stanley putting it that way, Belinda had no reason to decline. She exhaled in resignation and replied, ¡°Okay, I¡¯m on my way.¡±
After ending the call, she took a deep breath, hailed a taxi, and headed for the Cox residence.
On her way, her phone rang again. It was Darren.
¡°Belinda.¡±
Darren hesitated, then said, ¡°Have you¡ Have you found your cat?¡±
At the mention of Fluffy, Belinda¡¯s grip on her phone tightened, and she responded coldly, ¡°Darren, let me ask you something. You visited my apartment twice that day. Are you sure you didn¡¯t see my cat?¡±
Sensing the chill in her voice, Darren paused before replying, ¡°Belinda¡ Has someone been talking to you?¡±
Taking a deep breath, Belinda cut straight to the chase and said, ¡°I¡¯ve found Fluffy. He¡¯s with Kristopher.¡±
Upon hearing this, she could distinctly hear Darren inhale sharply over the phone.
After a moment, Darren said again, ¡°Kristopher¡ Did he tell you anything?¡±
¡°Kristopher.¡± This content belongs to Find~Novel
Belinda turned to gaze out the window, watching thendscape blur by. ¡°Fluffy means a lot to me. What made you think you could hand him over to Kristopher and im I didn¡¯t want him anymore?¡±
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Chapter 116
?Chapter 116:
As Belinda¡¯s questioning voice came through the phone, Darren closed his eyes in resignation.
The moment he had been dreading had arrived.
Taking a deep breath, he said, ¡°Belinda, please let me exin. That night was chaotic. I was hurrying to get your medication log to the hospital, and there was Kristopher, lingering at your doorstep, refusing to leave. When your cat, Fluffy, dashed out to find Kristopher, he scooped him up. He was using Fluffy to try to see you¡ I couldn¡¯t disclose your medical condition to him, nor was I in a position to wrestle him for Fluffy, so¡¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? find?novel
¡°So, you handed my beloved cat over to my ex-husband, just like that?¡± Belinda cut him off with a cold tone. ¡°Darren, I appreciate what you did for me that night. But have you thought about what might have happened to Fluffy if Kristopher hadn¡¯t brought him back? He could have been lost, hit by a car, or ended up starving on the streets.¡±
Darren sighed. ¡°Belinda, I was out of options¡ You were in a critical state, and I had to make a decision¡¡±
¡°And what about yesterday?¡± Belinda struggled to contain her emotions and inhaled deeply. ¡°When I asked you about Fluffy yesterday, you knew exactly where he was, yet you lied, iming you hadn¡¯t seen him. Madisyn spent the entire day searching. I continued from evening right up until eleven at night. If Kristopher hadn¡¯t shown up, I¡¯d probably still be out there looking.¡±
This time, Darren remained utterly silent.
Having expressed her frustrations, Belinda decided not to add more. ¡°Darren, the money you advanced at Peace Hospital that night, I¡¯ll send back double the amount in a few days. Thank you for everything you¡¯ve done for me during this period.¡±
With those final words, she ended the call.
L§Ñt?st ch¦Ápt?rs in g??l??ov??ls.£ã¦Ïm
Darren tried to call her back immediately.
However, she didn¡¯t pick up any of his calls.
Soon after, her car pulled up in front of the Cox family mansion.
After settling the cab fare and stepping out, Belinda¡¯s eyes caught sight of a familiar ck car parked outside the vi.
She couldn¡¯t help but frown.
Anthony¡¯s invitation to lunch today seemed to involve more than just her alone.
Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, Belinda entered the mansion. As she crossed the threshold, Anthony¡¯s heartyughter echoed from the living room.
¡°Allen, I never imagined you¡¯d drop by to see me after so many years overseas!¡±
Allen responded with a warm and infectious smile, ¡°Anthony, you always treated me so kindly when I was a kid! I would havee to see you the day after I got back if I hadn¡¯t been held up.¡±
Anthony chuckled, clearly amused by Allen¡¯s charm. ¡°You¡¯ve had a way with words since you were a boy, always one step ahead of the reserved Kristopher!¡±
Hearing the familiar banter, Belinda felt a wave of relief wash over her.
Allen was also here for the lunch.
It was a relief. She wouldn¡¯t be alone with Kristopher.
With a light step and a smile, she entered the living room. ¡°Anthony, what¡¯s got you all in such high spirits?¡±
At the sound of her voice, the three men turned their heads, their faces lighting up with recognition.
Though Allen and Belinda had met before, their previous encounters hadn¡¯t been very formal.
He asked with a grin, ¡°Anthony, who¡¯s this?¡±
Anthony ran his fingers through his beard, chuckling. ¡°This is my granddaughter-inw, Kristopher¡¯s wife, Belinda!¡±
Allen raised an eyebrow and extended his hand toward Belinda with a warm smile. ¡°So, you¡¯re Belinda. Pleased to meet you.¡±
Belinda returned the gesture and grasped his hand. ¡°Pleased to meet you too, Allen.¡±
After they were introduced, Anthony gestured to an empty seat beside Kristopher. ¡°Belinda, have a seat. The food will be a while longer.¡±
Belinda frowned slightly and hesitated, but eventually moved to sit next to Kristopher.
As she went to sit, she inadvertently pulled at the wound on her leg. The sharp pain made her falter and nearly fall.
Kristopher swiftly caught her, wrapping his arms around her in a quick embrace.
The moment felt unexpectedly intimate.
Belinda quickly detached from him, managing a flustered smile as she sat back down. ¡°Thanks.¡±
¡°For what?¡± Kristopher¡¯s voice was low and teasing, meant only for her ears. ¡°Old habits die hard, huh?¡±
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Chapter 117
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Kristopher¡¯s words caused Belinda to catch her breath abruptly.
Back when Kristopher had just woken up, Belinda had often used little ploys, like pretending to fall or faking a sprained ankle, to draw closer to him.
At that time, she believed Kristopher¡¯s willingness to y along indicated that he cared and perhaps even had feelings for her.
That belief shattered when she identally overheard someone outside a private room asking him if he was oblivious to her schemes. His response from that day still echoed in her mind.
He had said, ¡°How could I not see through such obvious theatrics and schemes? I yed along with her act just to stop her from finding even more distasteful methods to approach me.¡±
That moment marked the first time Belinda realized his deep-seated disdain for her.
From that day forward, she never again made overt attempts to be close to him in public.
She hadn¡¯t anticipated that, after all this time, a small misstep would cause him to revisit the past and suspect her of deceit and maniption.
¡°Kristopher and Belinda certainly seem close,¡± Allen said, chuckling lightly after seeing Kristopher embrace Belinda.
His words appeared tomend the closeness between Kristopher and Belinda, yet they carried an undertone of mockery regarding their rtionship.
After all, Allen had not missed how genuinely Kristopher had previously treated Cathy at the racetrack. This text is hosted at FindN0vel
However, Anthony seemed oblivious to the underlying sarcasm. He stroked his beard and smiled. ¡°Yes, they truly show deep affection for each other.¡±
Explore magic at g¦Á ? ¦Ç¦Ò ¦Í?? ?s,
¡°They were just debating divorce a few days ago, and then they decided against it, which is quite amusing!¡±
Allen¡¯s mouth twisted into a smirk as he nced at Belinda and then looked away. ¡°Anthony, you simply don¡¯t see it. That¡¯s all part of the amusement.¡±
Anthonyughed heartily and said, ¡°Is that so? It seems I¡¯m a bit out of touch then¡¡±
Their banter was lighthearted but left Belinda feeling uneasy.
Thankfully, the meal was soon served.
Anthony stood up, leaning on his cane, ready to lead the younger group to the dining area, when the front door of the vi swung open.
¡°Kristopher!¡±
Cathy entered, dressed all in white.
She burst in like a storm, heading directly toward Kristopher for a hug. She wrapped her arms tightly around his broad waist, resting her head against his chest, her voice trembling with a sob as she said, ¡°I¡¯ve been searching for you everywhere. I finally found you!¡±
Suddenly, the living room fell into a silence so deep that it felt suffocating.
Allen raised an eyebrow and cast a nce at Belinda.
Belinda responded with a helpless shrug and chose to remain quiet.
¡°What are you doing here?¡±
A momentter, the sharp tap of Anthony¡¯s cane echoed across the living room. ¡°Hey! Is our security just for decoration? How can anyone just stroll in here?! Huh?¡±
Anthony¡¯s stern tone caused Cathy¡¯s face to nch.
She bit her lip, her face turning pale as she stepped out of Kristopher¡¯s arms. ¡°Anthony¡ I¡ I didn¡¯t mean to intrude¡¡±
Her voice quivered with distress, nearly breaking into tears. ¡°I had urgent matters to discuss with Kristopher, but I couldn¡¯t find him, so¡¡±
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Chapter 118
?Chapter 118:
¡°Cathy, you really shouldn¡¯t havee here without Grandpa¡¯s approval.¡± Kristopher gently handed a tissue to Cathy as he positioned himself between her and Anthony.
Though he spoke with mild disapproval, his tone carried a soothing warmth.
His protective stance toward Cathy was so clear that it was unmistakable to anyone who wasn¡¯t blind.
As this unfolded, Allen instinctively raised his eyebrows and nced at Belinda.
Feeling his gaze, Belinda simply shrugged and indicated with her eyes that she was uninvolved in the situation.
¡°Stanley!¡±
Already irritated by Cathy¡¯s tears, Anthony grew even more irate as he witnessed Kristopher¡¯s defense of her.
Furious, Anthony banged his cane and said, ¡°Call the security guard at the gate! I want to know who allowed this woman inside!¡±
Stanley hurried in from outside, mopping his brow and shaking as he said, ¡°Actually, the security did attempt to stop Miss Miller, exining she wasn¡¯t permitted to enter, but¡¡±
Anthony mmed his cane down and barked, ¡°But what?! Tell me!¡±
¡°But¡¡±
Stanley¡¯s gaze briefly flicked to Cathy, safely behind Kristopher, and he inhaled deeply before saying, ¡°The security mentioned that Miss Miller leveraged her anticipated status as Mrs. Cox¡ questioning whether they valued their jobs. The security guard had seen Miss Miller under Mr. Cox¡¯s protection when she left the mansion a few days ago, so they believed her im and allowed her entry¡¡±
By the time he finished, Stanley was visibly sweating. ¡°Sir, the security guard is new and wasn¡¯t aware of the full context. Please¡¡±
¡°So Miss Miller used the identity of the future Mrs. Cox to get in.¡± Stanley¡¯s report was interrupted by Allen.
Your next tale lives on g ? ln¦Ò ¦Í?? ?s,
Allen stood casually against a carved rosewood bookshelf, arms folded across his chest. ¡°I just overheard Anthony refer to Belinda as Kristopher¡¯s wife, the true Mrs. Cox,¡± Allen said, looking at Belinda to provoke a reaction. ¡°Did you two get a divorce? Where are the divorce papers?¡±
Belinda¡¯s expression tightened.
Ever since she resolved to let go of her marriage to Kristopher, she had been diligently avoiding any direct shes with both Kristopher and Cathy.
She had no interest in entangling herself in their rtionship. Yet, under these circumstances, with Allen pressing the question, she waspelled to reply, albeit hesitantly, ¡°Not yet.¡±
¡°Not yet, huh?¡±
Allen lingered on the words meaningfully, his eyes shifting to Cathy, still shielded by Kristopher. ¡°They¡¯re not even divorced, and Miss Miller is already ying the role of Mrs. Cox?¡±
Cathy¡¯s face nched immediately.
Instinctively, Cathy reached behind to clutch Kristopher¡¯s sleeve, her voice wavering as though she were on the brink of tears. ¡°I never imed that¡ I just told the security I was frantic and needed to find Kristopher. Maybe they¡¯ve seen me with him before and assumed I¡¯d be Mrs. Cox someday, so they let me in¡ I never aspired to be Mrs. Cox, nor would I ever say such a thing¡¡±
As she spoke, she clutched her chest in a gesture of distress, her eyes pleading with Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher, you know me better than anyone does, and I couldn¡¯t have said those words.¡±
Kristopher nced at Cathy¡¯s teary eyes and her hand over her heart, pausing momentarily.
He then turned and shot a cold look at Allen and Belinda. ¡°You¡¯re really going to believe the rumors of a security guard?¡±
Anthony¡¯s gaze hardened as he turned to Stanley. ¡°Bring the security guard here to confront Miss Miller directly!¡±
With that, he moved to sit on the main sofa. ¡°I want to find out whether it¡¯s the guard I pay well who¡¯s lying, or if it¡¯s this delicate Miss Miller who¡¯s being dishonest!¡±
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Chapter 119
?Chapter 119:
Seeing Anthony¡¯s grave approach, Cathy clenched her teeth in frustration, a flicker of malice in her eyes. Had it not been for the old man organizing another meal for Kristopher and Belinda, would she have had to rush here in such a panic? And now, simply because she had casually dered herself the future Mrs. Cox, he was relentlessly pursuing the matter?
But hadn¡¯t she merely spoken the truth?
If not for Belinda¡¯s cunning, Kristopher would surely have secured their divorce by now.
Shortly after, the butler arrived, apanied by the security guard. The young, tall guard seemed to shrink, his head lowered like a scolded child. ¡°Sir, I admit I was wrong to believe thedy and allow her entry.¡±
Anthony tapped his cane with a sneer. ¡°You need to be clear. Did she im to be the future Mrs. Cox and coerce you into letting her in? Or did you assume she would soon hold that title and let her through based on that?¡±
The security guard hesitated, his gaze involuntarily darting toward Cathy. ¡°Thisdy here¡ she told me she was the future Mrs. Cox¡¡±
¡°You¡¯re lying!¡± Cathy eximed, clutching her chest as if struggling to breathe. ¡°When did I ever say I was the future Mrs. Cox? Kristopher and Miss Nelson are still married. How could I possibly im such a thing?¡±
As she spoke, tears cascaded down her cheeks. ¡°I only mentioned I was here to see Kristopher and asked if you could let me inside¡¡± Kristopher frowned, gently handing her a tissue to dab her tears while casting a frosty look at the security guard. ¡°Be careful with your words.¡±
From a distance, Belinda saw the shimmer of Cathy¡¯s tears and the anguish in Kristopher¡¯s eyes. She was internally impressed. Cathy truly had a knack for drama. She could summon tears at will and express her emotions with convincing depth.
If she brought such a perfect performance to her work, she¡¯d probably have no problem securing awards in the future.
Surrounded by those rushing to her defense, Cathy sobbed even more convincingly. ¡°I don¡¯t know who put you up to this¡ There were no recordings, no cameras back then, so obviously, your word isw¡¡±
Feel the magic on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s
¡°Who told you there are no recordings, no cameras?¡± Anthony¡¯s scoff cut through her words. ¡°Stanley, pull up the surveince footage.¡± Newest update provided by F?nd-Novel
Frozen, Cathy¡¯s hand paused in the act of wiping her tears. She looked up, her eyes darting as she tried to mask her rising panic. ¡°Anthony, your house¡ Is there a camera at the gate too?¡±
When she was with Kristopher, she had frequently visited the Cox family¡¯s mansion. She vividly recalled Kristopher once confiding in her that Anthony had a strong aversion to being monitored, which was why only a handful of the vi¡¯s cameras were real. The rest were mere decoys to deter trespassers.
But how could this be¡
¡°Yes,¡± Stanley confirmed with a subdued grin. ¡°There was a security overhaul in the vi recently. Mr. Anthony felt it was pointless to keep those dummy cameras, so he reced them all with functional ones.¡± He continued, ensuring the surveince was being checked, ¡°Now, there are high-definition cameras monitoring even the area outside the gates. The footage should include your exchange with the security guard.¡±
At this revtion, Cathy¡¯s face darkened. She had boldly refuted the security guard¡¯s allegations, confident in her knowledge that the cameras at the vi¡¯s entrance were decoys. She firmly believed that their conversation had been a secret shared only between her and the guard.
But now¡
¡°Miss Miller,¡± Stanley addressed her seriously. ¡°Should it turn out that this guard has falsely used you, we¡¯ll terminate his employment immediately.¡±
At that moment, Allen chuckled. ¡°And what if it turns out that Miss Miller is the one who¡¯s been lying?¡±
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Chapter 120
?Chapter 120:
The living room fell silent immediately.
When nobody responded, Allen raised his eyebrows and looked toward Belinda. ¡°Belinda, what do you think?¡±
Belinda paused to consider, then offered a knowing smile. ¡°After all, Miss Miller is an educated and virtuousdy of considerable talents. Surely, she wouldn¡¯t make up lies to me an innocent security guard, right?¡±
As Belinda spoke, Cathy¡¯s expression darkened further.
sping her chest, Cathy moved closer into Kristopher¡¯s arms. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯m feeling sick. Can you take me to the hospital?¡±
Kristopher immediately supported her, his expression filled with worry. ¡°Is the pain back?¡±
Cathy nodded, tears in her eyes. ¡°Yes!¡±
¡°Okay, let¡¯s get you to the hospital right away.¡±
Seeing her paleplexion, Kristopher inhaled deeply and was about to guide her away, his hands supportively on her shoulders.
¡°Wait a moment,¡± Anthony scoffed. ¡°The surveince video will be ready soon. It won¡¯t be toote to head to the hospital after we¡¯ve seen it.¡±
Cathy bit her lip as if wrestling with a difficult choice, then raised her eyes to Anthony and said, ¡°Anthony, there¡¯s no need to watch the surveince. I realize that because of our past issues three years ago, you¡¯re biased against me¡ Even if I¡¯m treated unfairly, you¡¯d still me me. Whether we view the surveince or not doesn¡¯t matter anymore. I already¡¡±
¡°Got it!¡±
Her speech was interrupted by Stanley¡¯s excited announcement. The very next moment, Stanley pressed y on theptop.
¡°Why won¡¯t you let me in? Do you know who I am? I am Cathy, the one Kristopher will formally marry soon! I¡¯m the future Mrs. Cox, Kristopher¡¯s wife. Do you really want to offend me? If you don¡¯t let me in now, when I marry into the Cox family and take over, the first thing I¡¯ll do is make sure you¡¯re fired!¡±
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Suddenly, the living room fell silent again.
Cathy¡¯s forceful, sharp voice filled the space, resonating from theptop through the quiet room. Herplexion went white.
Kristopher slowly released his grip on Cathy¡¯s shoulders.
This happened just moments after the surveince video ended. Anthony looked at Cathy with disdain and said sharply, ¡°Is this your definition of being wronged by our security guard?¡±
Cathy bit her lip and remained silent.
Allen couldn¡¯t resist chuckling and said, ¡°Miss Miller seemed so delicate earlier, barely able to breathe andining of stomach pains¡ Yet, who would have guessed she had such spirit when confronting the security guard?¡±
He then nced at Belinda and said, ¡°In the footage, Miss Miller was quite energetic, even more so than you.¡±
Belinda gave a slight smile. ¡°It seems you were indeed truthful.¡±
Stanley smiled and gave the security guard a reassuring pat on the shoulder, saying, ¡°Alright, you¡¯re not fired. Get back to work.¡±
The security guard nodded and walked away.
As Belinda watched the security guard¡¯s retreating, earnest figure, she remembered the incident that morning at the Swan Lake vi when Cathy had pushed her down the stairs and Kristopherter asked her to forgive Cathy voluntarily.
Moved by a sudden urge, Belinda took a deep breath, stood up, and said, ¡°Wait.¡±
Under the astonished look of the security guard, she turned to face Cathy, whose face was now pale. ¡°If not for today¡¯s surveince at Anthony¡¯s ce clearing the security guard, he would have lost his job because of Miss Miller¡¯s lies. Shouldn¡¯t you apologize to the security guard?¡±
Why was it that every time Cathy caused harm or wrongdoing, she escaped without even apologizing? Just because she¡¯s protected by Kristopher?
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Chapter 121
?Chapter 121:
The living room fell silent.
Cathy stood frozen, her face ghostly pale as she gripped her clothes tightly. ¡°I truly made a mistake in this matter, I¡¡±
¡°Forget it,¡± Allen interjected with a dismissive wave and a cold chuckle. ¡°Even though Miss Miller was at fault, it would be beneath her to apologize to just a security guard for her actions, wouldn¡¯t it? It would be rather embarrassing, right?¡±
Anthony scoffed, ¡°Always quick to act but slow to admit¡ªjust like three years ago! No change at all!¡±
Eachment seemed to drain more color from Cathy¡¯s face. Readplete version only at find?novel
She reflexively clung to Kristopher¡¯s sleeve, herplexion ashen. ¡°Kristopher¡¡±
Tears streamed down her face as she gazed up at him. ¡°You asked to see my medical records from overseas, and I had them brought over immediately¡ It took a while to get the international documents. When I got them, I rushed over to share the good news with you¡ But then I was stopped at the gate, and in my panic¡¡±
As she continued, her tears flowed freely, her eyes like overflowing springs. ¡°I know I was wrong, and I only lied just now to¡ to try to preserve some dignity for myself. I¡¯m certainly capable of apologizing.¡±
Cathy sniffed, suddenly releasing Kristopher¡¯s hand, and dashed toward the security guard, dropping to her knees with a loud thud.
The room was stunned by her sudden action.
For a brief moment, the living room was so silent that one could even hear a pin drop.
¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡±
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Cathy kneeled before the bewildered security guard, tears streaming down her face. ¡°I apologize for my arrogant behavior at the gate, for wrongfully using you, and for nearly costing you your job! I¡¯m usually known for being kind and gentle, and today was truly the first time I¡¯ve acted this way. I never expected to be corrected so swiftly¡ I apologize to you, and to show my remorse, I will have my assistant reach out to give you a card loaded with a hundred thousand dors. You can use it to buy something you like¡ as a gesture of my apology. And once more, I sincerely apologize!¡±
With those final words, Cathy remained on the floor, sobbing uncontrobly, unable to rise. ¡°Cathy!¡±
Kristopher snapped to his senses and hurried over, trying to help Cathy to her feet.
But Cathy seemedpletely drained from crying and copsed onto the floor.
The security guard quickly stepped in to assist, and together with Kristopher, they lifted Cathy back up.
Kristopher cradled her head against his shoulder and shouted to Stanley, ¡°Call an ambnce!¡±
Stanley paused, his gaze flicking to Anthony for direction.
Anthony gestured with his hand, signaling Stanley to hurry.
With that, Stanley quickly walked off.
¡°Cathy¡¡±
Cathy rested her head on Kristopher¡¯s shoulder, murmuring, ¡°The medical records you asked for¡ I¡¯ve gathered them all. I didn¡¯t deceive you¡ My stomach cancer¡ It¡¯s very serious. I¡¯m not someone who lies; today was the first exception¡¡±
After speaking, she raised her head toward Belinda, her voice feeble, saying, ¡°Miss Nelson, you asked for an apology, and I gave it¡ What more do you want from me?¡±
Belinda knitted her brows and said, ¡°What do I want from you? When you hurt someone, apologizing is the right thing to do, right?¡±
Belinda¡¯s response caused Cathy¡¯s breathing to quicken noticeably. Kristopher tightened his hold on her and red at Belinda. ¡°Cathy¡¯s not well, and do you have to oppose her like this?¡±
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Chapter 122
?Chapter 122:
As Belinda observed Cathy¡¯s ghostly pale face, she struggled to discern if the woman was truly suffering or merely putting on a show. With her lips tightly pressed and hands balled into fists at her sides, Belinda¡¯s voice cracked as she said, ¡°I¡¯m not after her personally; I just want her to own up to her actions and apologize for her mistakes¡¡±
Before she could finish, Cathy¡¯s breathing escted sharply.
Kristopher enveloped Cathy protectively in his arms, shooting a fierce look at Belinda. ¡°Enough! Are you upset just because Cathy identally pushed you this morning? Now you seem to be using this incident tosh out because of a misunderstanding involving the security guard?¡±
His gaze pierced through her, cold and sharp as an eternal cier. ¡°Belinda, I always believed you were generous, no matter the circumstance. I thought that was just who you are. I never imagined it was just a facade! You¡¯re actually quite spiteful!¡± N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on f?ndnovel
As he spoke, the sound of an ambnce could be heard arriving outside.
Cathy shot Belinda a triumphant look, then turned to Kristopher weakly, clutching his hand. ¡°Kristopher, I feel so terrible¡ Please, take me to the ambnce for some oxygen¡¡±
With a creased brow, Kristopher ignored Belindapletely, lifting Cathy and swiftly moving past her.
As they brushed past, Cathy¡¯s leg struck Belinda forcefully, whether intentionally or unintentionally.
The impact of the bump caused Belinda to stagger backward, almost causing her to lose her footing.
Luckily, Allen was there to catch her, preventing her from falling.
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¡°It hurts¡¡±
Before Belinda could even respond, Cathy, cradled in Kristopher¡¯s arms, started crying loudly.
¡°Just leave her be.¡±
With a sympathetic look at Cathy, Kristopher quickened his pace and moved on.
Shortly after, the sounds of the ambnce door swinging open, then shutting, and the vehicle pulling away filled the air.
As the siren faded into the distance, Belinda felt a sharp ache where Cathy had struck her.
¡°Are you okay?¡±
Allen guided her to the couch, instinctively reaching to check the spot where Cathy¡¯s collision had impacted her stomach, but quickly deemed it inappropriate and withdrew his hand.
¡°Stanley¡¡±
Anthony¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Get the doctor to see to Belinda¡¯s injury.¡±
Upon hearing this, Belinda hastily clutched her clothes and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing, Anthony, just a small bump. I¡¡±
¡°She deliberately kicked you. I saw it clearly!¡±
Anthony gave a cold snort and mmed his hand down on the sofa¡¯s armrest. ¡°She did that on purpose! She was wearing sharp high heels and kicked your stomach. How can you possibly be okay?¡± He then shot a stern look at Stanley. ¡°Hurry up!¡±
Stanley nodded quickly and hurried off.
Minutester, Anthony¡¯s family doctor arrived, medical bag in hand. ¡°Sir, what seems to be the issue?¡±
Anthony gestured towards Belinda. ¡°Her stomach was kicked by a reckless woman. Could you check on her?¡±
The doctor, Renee Truman, who had served the Cox family for more than two years, wasn¡¯t particrly close to Belinda, but they knew each other well.
She furrowed her brow and asked Belinda, ¡°Can you walk on your own?¡±
Belinda nodded and instinctively stood up, but in her haste, aggravated a wound on her leg, causing her to wince and almost lose her bnce. Renee steadied her, then nced at Allen. ¡°Could you help, please?¡±
Allen quickly supported Belinda to the adjacent bedroom.
After Allen left, Renee gently shut the bedroom door, then turned to Belinda and whispered, ¡°Why does your face look so pale after not seeing you for a few months? Did you ever go to the hospital to get that stomach check-up I rmendedst time?¡±
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Chapter 123
?Chapter 123:
After a moment, Belinda shook her head and said, ¡°I had a medical check-up. Nothing major, just a stomach ulcer.¡±
About three or four months ago, while dining with Anthony, she suddenly vomited blood. At that time, Renee noticed something was off and urged her to visit the hospital for a stomach check whenever she found the time. That was when Belinda discovered she had advanced gastric cancer.
¡°Are you really okay?¡±
Renee looked at her skeptically and instinctively moved closer, wanting to check on her.
Belinda quickly stepped back. ¡°Anthony wanted you to check where I was injured.¡±
With that, she voluntarily lifted her clothes to show where she had recently been kicked.
Renee frowned. She had intended to examine Belinda¡¯s stomach, but the sight of the bruise immediately grabbed her attention.
¡°That looks bad!¡±
Renee gently prodded the bruise on Belinda with her finger. ¡°Does that hurt?¡±
Belinda grimaced and nodded.
¡°That person must really dislike you.¡±
As Renee talked, she listened carefully with her stethoscope and pressed around the area for a thorough examination. Finally, she exhaled in relief and said, ¡°Thankfully, it¡¯s just a bruise. But it¡¯s going to take some time to heal.¡±
Then she squatted down and lifted Belinda¡¯s trousers.
Belinda couldn¡¯t stop her in time.
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With a concerned look, Renee examined the bruises on her leg and asked, ¡°Were they also caused by a kick?¡±
¡°I was pushed down the stairs earlier today,¡± Belinda responded, shaking her head in dismay.
Renee¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°By the same person who kicked you in the stomach?¡±
Belinda nodded.
¡°How cruel!¡±
Renee sighed and applied ointment to Belinda¡¯s wounds. Afterward, she took out a pen and paper to make a note of this.
¡°Dr. Truman,¡±
As Renee wrote the word ¡°stomach¡± on the paper, Belinda quickly reached out to stop her and said, ¡°My condition¡ Could you¡ not mention it to Anthony? He is old. I don¡¯t want him to worry.¡±
Renee seemed to have anticipated this. She looked up, adjusted her sses, and said earnestly, ¡°Tell me what¡¯s going on, and I¡¯ll keep your secret.¡±
Belinda exhaled deeply.
At this moment, she feltpelled to reveal the truth. Follow current nov?ls on Find_Novel(.
¡°So, that¡¯s why you¡¯re pushing for a divorce.¡±
Renee gave her a look of sympathy and asked, ¡°You don¡¯t want to be a burden to Kristopher?¡±
¡°I just don¡¯t love him as much anymore,¡± Belinda replied, shaking her head.
With less than three months left, she wanted to shed the title of Mrs. Cox and just be herself. He didn¡¯t love her, and she no longer wanted to degrade herself. She yearned to live as herself, not as Mrs. Cox.
Even in her final days, she refused to be remembered merely as his deceased wife.
Seeing her resolve, Renee chose not to press further. She crossed out the word ¡°stomach¡± and said, ¡°I¡¯ll keep your stomach cancer private, but that¡¯s all I can do.¡±
With that, she walked out of the guest room, opened the door, and handed the medical records to Anthony.
¡°Multiple bruises? On the leg?¡±
Anthony examined the medical report with surprise.
He looked at Belinda and eximed, ¡°No wonder you nearly tripped earlier! Belinda, what happened?¡±
Before Belinda could respond, Allen interjected, ¡°I heard from Kristopher that Miss Miller pushed Belinda this morning.¡±
Upon hearing this, Anthony¡¯s anger red up again. ¡°That troublemaker again! She¡¡±
Before he could finish speaking, the vi¡¯s door suddenly swung open from outside.
Dressed in a ck suit, Kristopher stormed in and seized Belinda¡¯s wrist. ¡°Come to the hospital with me and apologize to Cathy!¡±
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Chapter 124
?Chapter 124:
Anthony was already seething over Cathy¡¯s actions that had harmed Belinda. When he saw Kristopher burst in and begin to forcefully take Belinda away, he couldn¡¯t contain his anger. ¡°You brat, release her!¡± he shouted.
Kristopher, however, seemedpletely oblivious to Anthony¡¯s demand. His grip on Belinda¡¯s wrist was unyielding, tightening with enough force that it seemed he might break it.
Belinda had already been weakened from her illness and a recent miscarriage. She looked so fragile that a mere gust of wind might topple her,pletely powerless against Kristopher¡¯s strength. She was dragged toward the exit, her legs scrambling to keep pace and nearly copsing several times.
Kristopher was focused solely on getting her outside and ignored her struggles and difort. ¡°Cathy has been in turmoil since your confrontation, and her condition has worsened dramatically! You¡¯reing to the hospital with me this instant, and you¡¯re going to apologize to her!¡±
¡°Kristopher!¡±
Anthony yelled, his voice thick with fury as he watched Belinda being treated like an object. Clutching his chest, he managed to bellow, ¡°Release Belinda now!¡±
Kristopher continued unfazed, pulling Belinda toward the exit.
Just as they were about to leave the vi, Allen noticed Belinda¡¯s distress and intervened. He stepped in front of Kristopher with his arms wide open. ¡°Belinda has a leg injury. If you keep pulling her like this, she might not even survive the trip to the hospital!¡±
Kristopher finally stopped, sneering as he looked back at Belinda dismissively. ¡°What a drama queen.¡±
As they stopped, Anthony hobbled over using his cane and pulled Belinda¡¯s hand free from Kristopher. ¡°She¡¯s already been hurt by Cathy! How can you continue to mistreat her like this?¡±
¡°Is that so?¡±
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Kristopher retorted coldly, ncing at the old man with a sneer. ¡°Did Belinda tell you that Cathy hurt her?¡±
¡°I did it!¡± After observing the entire scene, Renee paused to take a deep breath. Then, she moved closer. Despite Belinda¡¯s objections, she carefully lifted the leg of Belinda¡¯s pants to show the injury.
Several dark bruises marred Belinda¡¯s slender, fair legs, resembling grotesque scars sprawled across her skin.
¡°You im she¡¯s merely pretending to be pitiful. Could someone really fake these injuries?¡± Renee asked.
She then turned her gaze sharply toward Kristopher. ¡°You surely haven¡¯t forgotten what Cathy did to her earlier today, have you?¡± Readplete version only at find[f]ovel
Kristopher found himself at a loss for words.
He gazed at the bruises on Belinda¡¯s legs in disbelief. ¡°What the¡? Did all of these happen this morning?¡±
That morning, Kristopher had a vivid memory of watching Belinda fall down the stairs without crying out in pain, groaning, or showing any signs of distress. She had even calmly taken the cat carrier Marc had brought over and quickly departed with Fluffy. He had assumed that she had not been injured at all. However, he waspletely mistaken.
¡°And look here.¡±
Renee¡¯s expression darkened as she carefully lifted Belinda¡¯s shirt to reveal a bruise on her abdomen. The bruise was so severe that the underlying blood vessels were visible. ¡°Miss Miller inflicted this just a moment ago with a kick. You remember seeing this, don¡¯t you?¡±
Kristopher hesitated, then tried to rify to Renee, ¡°Just now, Cathy didn¡¯t actually kick her. It was merely an idental bump.¡±
She stared daggers at Kristopher and stated, ¡°An idental bump wouldn¡¯t leave such a distinct bruise. This type of injury clearly results from a forceful kick delivered by pointed high heels. Think about it! What was Miss Miller wearing on her feet today? Weren¡¯t they pointed high heels?¡±
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Chapter 125
?Chapter 125:
Kristopher went quiet.
Seizing the opportunity while he was distracted, Allen quickly moved to protect Belinda, standing in front of her. ¡°Kristopher, it¡¯s no secret that you and Miss Miller once had a rtionship. But in the past few years, I¡¯ve heard about what Belinda did for you, even though I was overseas. When you wereatose, she cared for you tirelessly. Even if there was no love initially, there was certainly affection, wasn¡¯t there? You¡¯re still married to Belinda. Is it right for you to treat her this way?¡±
¡°Exactly!¡± Anthony said sharply. ¡°Why should Belinda apologize to Cathy? What has she done to deserve that? Conversely, Cathy pushed Belinda down the stairs today and even aimed a kick at her stomach¡ Has she apologized to Belinda?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow creased, and he instinctively looked toward Belinda and asked, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you mention you were injured earlier?¡± He had been concerned about her that morning. But since she seemed fine when she left, he thought nothing of it¡
¡°Had I spoken up, would you have asked Miss Miller to apologize to me?¡± Belinda stared at him with icy detachment, her expression cold. ¡°What were you up to this morning? She didn¡¯t even apologize, yet you pressured me to forgive her, to just let it slide. Remember that?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s face darkened immediately. He inhaled sharply, his gaze softened with regret as he faced Belinda.
Just then, his phone rang.
Kristopher looked at the caller ID, his expression brightening. He turned away to take the call. ¡°Cathy, how are you?¡±
The response from the other side made a wave of worry and panic wash over his face. ¡°Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry!¡±
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¡°She¡ I¡¯ll bring her over right now!¡±
He quickly ended the call and spun around.
¡°You little troublemaker!¡±
Anthony stepped in front of Kristopher, blocking his path. ¡°If you dare toy a hand on Belinda again¡¡±
Before Anthony could finish his sentence, Kristopher deftly moved past him and stood in front of Allen. ¡°Move.¡±
Allen scowled, instinctively protecting Belinda. ¡°Kristopher, you¡¡±
¡°Get out of my way!¡±
Kristopher uttered these words coldly and shoved Allen aside. He then picked up Belinda in his arms and hurried towards the main door. ¡°Cathy¡¯s in a bad state. I need to get Belinda to her first! I¡¯ll make sure her injuries are treated, don¡¯t worry!¡±
His voice echoed as he carried Belinda further away.
¡°Anthony¡¡±
Allen frowned, watching the direction Kristopher had taken. ¡°Should I go after Kristopher?¡±
¡°Can you catch up to him?¡±
Anthony sighed deeply. ¡°Let it be, let it be.¡±
With help from Stanley and Renee, Anthony settled back onto the sofa. ¡°I knew they hadn¡¯t finalized their divorce, so I invited them both over for dinner, hoping I could bring them back together¡ Who could have expected this¡¡± ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find?novel
Seeing Anthony so disheartened, Allen cleared his throat, trying to change the subject. ¡°By the way, Anthony, I heard that Kristopher had reserved the grandest five-star hotel in Nawrin and even ordered the mostvish cake from there¡ They¡¯re saying there¡¯s a major event happening next week. Is something big going down with Cox Group?¡±
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Chapter 126
?Chapter 126:
¡°Kristopher!¡±
Belinda struggled in his grasp, ring with furrowed brows. ¡°Let me go!¡± she demanded.
Previously, Belinda had watched dramas where the hero swept the heroine off her feet and carried her in his arms romantically. She had secretly wished for Kristopher to embrace her like that, imagining it as pure bliss.
Now, however, as he held her not out of love but urgency, forcing her to apologize to another woman, the experience left her heart filled with bitterness, not joy.
¡°Don¡¯t move!¡±
Noticing her attempts to break free, Kristopher tightened his hold and spoke with stern urgency, ¡°Cathy¡¯s situation is critical; we can¡¯t dy!¡± He swiftly opened the car door, ushered Belinda into the backseat, secured the door, then dashed to the driver¡¯s seat and ignited the engine.
From the backseat, Belinda frowned deeply. ¡°Your efforts are futile. I won¡¯t apologize to Cathy, even at the hospital.¡±
It seemed she was always the one hurt and, invariably, the one to concede. Why should she apologize now? Newest update provided by f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?
¡°Just apologize. It¡¯s not like it costs you anything! When did you be so stingy?¡± Kristopher, hands white-knuckled on the steering wheel, responded, his brows furrowing deeper. ¡°Cathy is truly unwell!¡± He had seen Cathy¡¯s medical records from abroad en route to the hospital.
The details of her illness were rming.
Initially skeptical, he couldn¡¯t believe such a vibrant girl could be so ill until he read the stark words on her medical history.
Imagining Cathy, fragile and weak, enduring such intense pain daily was almost beyond him.
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ncing at Belinda through the rearview mirror, he saw her massaging her wrist, her head bowed.
Though slender, she appeared robustpared to Cathy, whoy in the hospital¡¯s emergency room.
He sighed deeply. ¡°Belinda, Cathy has struggled immensely abroad these past years. It¡¯s been a tough road for her.¡±
Belinda scoffed, lifting her head to meet Kristopher¡¯s eyes in the mirror. ¡°So, because she struggled abroad and it was hard, she gets to hurt me repeatedly and demand apologies from me, is that it?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brows knotted into a deep V yet again. Each of Belinda¡¯s words pierced his heart like a sharp needle. Despite this, he found himself at a loss for words.
Following a prolonged silence, he frowned and said somewhat helplessly, ¡°You weren¡¯t like this before.¡±
The Belinda he remembered was open-minded, dignified, and virtuous, never prone to harsh speech.
Belinda¡¯sugh was cold. ¡°Then tell me, what was I like before?¡±
Kristopher narrowed his eyes, looking straight ahead. ¡°You used to take responsibility, to apologize when necessary. Even if you were wronged, you didn¡¯t create drama.¡±
Belinda adjusted herself on the leather upholstery of the backseat, her smile tinged with bitterness and sarcasm. ¡°So, Mr. Cox, you recognize that I endured many grievances in the past?¡±
Every time she encountered trouble from Rosie and Maggie, Kristopher was present but remained silent.
She had assumed it was because he, being a man, was insensitive to a woman¡¯s feelings and couldn¡¯t grasp the pain in her heart.
It turned out that he had been aware all along. He knew she had been wronged and often should not have been the one to apologize. Yet, he always chose to overlook it, silent as if he were mute.
Kristopher stiffened slightly at her words.
After another moment of silence, he spoke in a lowered voice. ¡°I thought you were used to it.¡±
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Chapter 127
?Chapter 127:
¡°Used to it¡¡±
Belinda had always believed her love for Kristopher withered the day they lost their child.
Yet now, as Kristopher dismissed her feelings with such an outrageous im, she found her heart aching once more. In the past, her humble countryside origins had left her feeling unworthy of Kristopher¡¯s elite social circle.
To avoid any fodder for gossip, she had painstakingly cultivated the persona of a gracious, dignified socialite ¡ª maintaining her poise both in public and in private.
She endured insults from Rosie and Maggie, brushed off the sneers from Nawrin¡¯s elite, and ignored the venomous rumors about her as if they were mere whispers in the wind.
Every public disy of elegance was secretly paid for by tears shed in solitude.
Yet now, Kristopher reduced all her efforts to merely being ¡°used to it.¡± He believed she had grown ustomed to the hostility, choosing to overlook the malice directed at her, remaining a detached observer.
With these thoughts weighing heavily on her, Belinda took a deep breath and turned to the man in the driver¡¯s seat, her voice resolute. ¡°I¡¯m not used to it. No one grows ustomed to being the target of constant ridicule and malice. So¡¡±
She locked eyes with him through the rearview mirror, the depth of his gaze imprable. ¡°This time, I would rather die than apologize to your Miss Miller.¡±
Screech¡ª!
As soon as she finished speaking, Kristopher mmed on the brakes, jerking the car to a halt by the roadside. He turned around, his face twisted with anger.
But before he could utter a word, his gaze locked with Belinda¡¯s. Her eyes, stubborn and proud, took him by surprise.
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For the first time, Kristopher saw such defiance in her eyes.
In the past, whenever she looked at him, there was a softness in her eyes, always sparkling with excitement.
But somewhere along the line, that excited twinkle had faded.
Her eyes had grown cold and distant.
And now, the fierce determination and pride in her gaze were utterly foreign to him.
At that moment, Kristopher felt a chilling realization. He could never have truly known Belinda at all.
He took a moment topose himself, quelling the unease brewing inside him. Finally, he looked away, his eyes dropping to the steel watch on his wrist. His voice was calm, but firm. ¡°What if I insist that you apologize to Cathy today?¡±
Belinda scoffed. ¡°And what if I just refuse to apologize? What will you do then, Mr. Cox? Force my mouth open?¡± Read full story at FindN()vel
¡°There¡¯s no need for such measures.¡±
As he spoke, Kristopher rolled down the car window to let in a gust of fresh air, then retrieved a cigarette from his pocket and lit it.
Gazing at Belinda through the swirls of smoke, his eyes betrayed a mix of emotions. ¡°The Cox Group is looking into buying a modeling agency, and they¡¯ve already started their background checks.¡±
Belinda tensed immediately at the mention of a ¡°modeling agency.¡± With her friend Madisyn being a model, the word ¡°model¡± had be a trigger for her over the years.
Taking a slow drag from his cigarette, Kristopher continued, ¡°It turns out the owner of this agency was hiding pinhole cameras in the dressing rooms ¡ª a real predator. To get thepany for a steal, I had someone hack into the scoundrel¡¯sputer.¡±
With a cigarette dangling from one corner of his mouth and his phone in his other hand, he flicked through some images. ¡°Take a look at this,¡± he said nonchntly.
Belinda felt a lump form in her throat as she nced at Kristopher¡¯s phone screen.
There, in ring rity, were images of Madisyn in her underwear, sifting through a pile of clothes. A sharp pang gripped Belinda¡¯s heart.
Her body trembled, and she stammered through chattering teeth, ¡°Kristopher, you¡¯re despicable!¡±
It was clear Kristopher was using those images of Madisyn to manipte Belinda.
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Chapter 128
?Chapter 128:
Kristopher took a drag of his cigarette with a cold chuckle. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to corner you like this; you left me no choice.¡±
As he spoke, he unlocked the car. ¡°Belinda, head upstairs and apologize now, or I¡¯ll have these photos leaked immediately. The choice is yours.¡±
Belinda bit her lip, her gaze drifting out the car window as she realized they had stopped at the hospital entrance.
No wonder he chose this spot to smoke and make his threats. What was usually a thirty-minute drive from the Cox residence to the hospital, he had raced through in under fifteen minutes.
His speedy drive was proof enough of how much Cathy meant to Kristopher.
Taking a deep breath, Belinda faced Kristopher with a stern and icy look. ¡°I¡¯ll go upstairs now and apologize to Miss Miller. But¡¡± Her eyes flicked to the phone in Kristopher¡¯s hand. ¡°I expect never to see these photos again in my life.¡±
¡°No problem.¡±
Kristopher put out his cigarette in the ashtray, satisfied. ¡°You apologize, and I¡¯ll delete them right away.¡±
¡°It¡¯s a deal then.¡±
With those words, Belinda took a deep breath, opened the car door, and walked toward the hospital.
Upon reaching the emergency room, she noticed the constant beeping of the machines and the flurry of doctors and nurses.
Yet, despite the apparent activity, none carried any medical supplies or medicine; they just seemed to be pacing.
Belinda scoffed.
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Cathy, the darling of the entertainment world, always had a crowd willing to y her game.
After another deep breath, Belinda pushed open the emergency room door and entered.
On the emergency room bed, Cathyy pale and frail, her body entwined with tubes and an oxygen mask covering her face. They say chronic illness breeds knowledge.
Perhaps because her own cancer diagnosis had brought her face-to-face with many seriously ill patients, Belinda could instantly tell upon entering that Cathy was pretending to be sick. A truly sick patient wouldn¡¯t look like she did.
¡°Miss Nelson¡¡±
As Belinda approached, Cathy weakly reached out her hand and managed a strained smile. ¡°You¡¯re here¡¡±
¡°Yep.¡±
Belinda stood beside the bed, sneering down at her. ¡°I heard that Miss Miller, you weren¡¯t feeling well and that your condition would worsen without my apology. So, I made a special trip just to see you.¡±
Cathy¡¯s face contorted unpleasantly. She frowned, about to speak, but then noticed the man standing in the doorway behind Belinda.
Cathy clutched her chest, feigning severe pain, and coughed while trying to speak through tears. ¡°Miss Nelson¡ I never asked for your apology¡ My mood is my own issue¡ Cough, cough¡¡±
¡°Cathy!¡±
Kristopher hurried over, worried, and took Cathy¡¯s hand. ¡°Do you need me to call a doctor?¡±
¡°No, cough, cough¡¡±
Cathy gripped Kristopher¡¯s hand, her expression one of frailty. ¡°Kristopher¡ Please step out¡ I need to speak with Miss Nelson privately¡¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brows knit together. ¡°Is that really safe?¡±
Belinda had always harbored a bias against Cathy, and now that he was leaving her alone with someone she disliked, how could he feelfortable?
¡°It¡¯s alright.¡±
Cathy managed a weak smile. ¡°Miss Nelson isn¡¯t unreasonable. I truly need to¡ speak to her in private.¡±
Convinced by Cathy¡¯s insistence, Kristopher reluctantly let go of her hand and started to walk out.
As he walked past Belinda, the man dropped his voice to a hushed whisper, meant only for their ears. ¡°Remember, I still have those photos.¡±
His words chilled Belinda to the bone. For Cathy, it seemed Kristopher would stop at nothing!
Belinda clenched her fists, her voice tight as she almost forced the words through her teeth. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I take my friend¡¯s privacy seriously.¡±
Only then did Kristopher rx and depart with purposeful strides. ¡°Belinda.¡±
As the emergency room door clicked shut, Cathy¡¯s gentle facade vanished instantly.
She removed the oxygen mask, elegantly rose from the bed, and with a mocking smile, she said, ¡°See? Your husband, for me, is willing to do anything.¡±
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Chapter 129
?Chapter 129:
Cathy had thought her words would shatter Belinda, maybe even send her spiraling into a breakdown.
Instead, Belinda not only remainedposed but actually chuckled and retorted, ¡°But you¡¯re still not pushing hard enough.¡±
She dragged a chair over and sat down, musing, ¡°When you got back to the country, I was convinced you two would quickly find your happily ever after. Now, nearly a monthter, Kristopher still hasn¡¯t left me.¡± Belinda elegantly crossed her legs as she spoke. ¡°Is it because your bond isn¡¯t strong enough, or maybe you justck the allure?¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes bulged, fury mounting within her. ¡°The only reason our divorce hasn¡¯t gone through is that you dodged him! How dare you mock me after you spent all of yesterday hiding out in the hospital to avoid signing the papers?¡± ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find?novel
¡°But I won¡¯t stay there forever.¡± With a provocative smirk, Belinda shot back, ¡°If Kristopher truly wanted to be rid of me, he would¡¯ve rescheduled right after I missed yesterday¡¯s meeting. And yet, when we saw each other this morning, he didn¡¯t even bring up the divorce.¡±
Cathy¡¯s face flushed a deep red, her usual pallor reced by fiery anger. ¡°Belinda! You¡¯re on the verge of being thrown out of the Cox family, and you still have the nerve to act so high and mighty! Just you wait! Kristopher will be rid of you by the end of the week!¡±
Belinda arched an eyebrow. ¡°Really?¡±
She was well aware that Cathy was correct. Kristopher had already arranged the venue and the cake for his proposal to Cathy, signaling his intention to ask Belinda for a divorce within the week.
Knowing this, Belinda aimed to use the remaining days before their separation to unleash her pent-up anger.
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¡°Absolutely,¡± Cathy retorted sharply. ¡°It won¡¯t be long before Kristopher presents me with the grandest marriage proposal Nawrin has ever seen. Just you wait!¡±
As she spoke, Cathy seemed to recall something, her gaze sharpening as she looked at Belinda. ¡°You two never even had an engagement ceremony, much less a wedding, did you? Back then, you were the one who desperately pushed for marriage. He wasatose, helpless to do anything¡¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice dripped with scorn as she stared at Belinda. ¡°You forced a man who didn¡¯t love you to marry you. Look where that¡¯s gotten you. A marriage that produced only sorrow, culminating in a miscarriage, and now, after three years, you¡¯re headed for divorce!¡±
As Belinda listened to her talk about the child, she felt a piercing ache in her heart. Her current circumstances were, without a doubt, her own doing.
Taking a deep breath, determined not to delve further into the conversation with Cathy, Belinda forced a cold smile. ¡°They say that even the most fictitious things can be reality if one pretends long enough.¡±
With a side nce at Cathy¡¯s vibrant demeanor, she added, ¡°Miss Miller seems to relish in ying the ill, and who knows, perhaps one day it might just turn real for you.¡±
Cathy brushed off Belinda¡¯s remarks with a lightness only an actress could muster. ¡°I¡¯m merely perfecting my craft.¡±
After herment, she yawned and looked at Belinda with a hint of mockery in her eyes. ¡°Aren¡¯t you here to offer an apology?¡±
She pointed imperiously to the floor next to her with her slender finger. ¡°Go on, kneel down and apologize from your heart. If not, I might just have to tell him how poorly you apologized and that you were trying to provoke me.¡±
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Chapter 130
?Chapter 130:
Belinda leaned back in her seat and got even morefortable. She showed no intention of standing up, let alone getting down on her knees.
She shot a cold nce in Cathy¡¯s direction and spoke in a monotonous voice. ¡°I only came to apologize to you because Kristopher threatened me. I was actually worried at first. I didn¡¯t know how to give you an apology you don¡¯t deserve with Kristopher watching. It was very nice of you to send him away.¡±
She took her phone out of her pocket as she spoke and proceeded to fiddle with it. ¡°Now that it¡¯s just the two of us here, I don¡¯t have to do it anymore.¡±
¡°Didn¡¯t you hear me just now? I told you to kneel down and beg for my forgiveness!¡± Cathy rolled her eyes and scoffed, then began to inspect her nails. Her tone turned contemptuous as she continued, ¡°If you don¡¯t do as I say, I will tell Kristopher that you refuse to apologize. I know he still has leverage over you. Are you willing to risk the possible consequences?¡±
Belinda¡¯s hand paused. She cocked her head to the side and smirked. ¡°You¡¯re right. He does have leverage over me. That¡¯s exactly what he used to force my hand. However¡ His threat also sparked some inspiration in me.¡±
Belinda raised an eyebrow and lifted the phone in her hand. ¡°Miss Miller, how do you think Kristopher will react once he finds out that you¡¯ve been faking your illness all this time?¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes went wide as saucers, and her voice went a little off-key. ¡°Belinda, you¡ªYou recorded it?!¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile widened as she pressed the y button on her screen. ¡°See?¡± Cathy¡¯s shrill voice came through the speaker. ¡°Your husband, for me, is willing to do anything.¡±
All the color instantly drained from Cathy¡¯s face as she heard her own voice. Her hands clutched at the bed sheets, her face a mask of fear and resentment. ¡°Kristopher was right. You¡¯re a vicious little snake! You conniving bitch!¡±
Cathy had asked Kristopher to leave, thinking that she could intimidate Belinda when they were alone. In fact, she had every confidence that she could force thetter to back down. Never had she imagined that Belinda would be so cunning.
L??t??¦Ó ?h??¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?l??.??§àm
¡°Oh, you think recording the truth makes me a bitch?¡±
Belinda sneered, turning the audio off. ¡°What do you call yourself, then, Miss Miller, when you stepped on the gas and deliberately rammed into me?¡±
¡°Racetrack? Especially when I slowed down for you. Wasn¡¯t it vicious of you to deliberately mention the meat in the pot when I was desperately searching for my missing cat? Ha! And don¡¯t forget you even pushed me down the stairs. Aren¡¯t you a snake for pretending to fall sick at the Cox mansion in front of everyone and coercing Kristopher to bring me here and apologize to you?¡±
Cathy¡¯s face twisted into an ugly expression. Her eyes narrowed, and her nostrils red. ¡°I swear, if you give that recording to Kristopher, I will never let you go if it¡¯s thest thing I do!¡± The rightful source is F?ndNovel
¡°Please, I¡¯m not interested in what you do with your life,¡± Belinda retorted with a yawn. ¡°Since you like putting on an act for everyone, just continue with your charades. Whatever happens between you and Kristopher is none of my business. I would like to ask you to mind yourself, though. Don¡¯t bother me with such trivial nonsense again. Otherwise, I just might find the time and energy to release this recording to the inte.¡±
With that, Belinda finally stood and gracefully straightened her clothes. ¡°Now, Miss Miller,¡± she said in that same indifferent voice, ¡°do I still need to kneel and apologize to you?¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes darted to Belinda¡¯s phone. ¡°No,¡± she bit out through gritted teeth.
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Chapter 131
?Chapter 131:
¡°May I leave now?¡± Belinda asked, her voice echoing slightly in the spacious resuscitation room. She stretched, her movements graceful and deliberate, and walked with determined strides toward the door. As her fingers grazed the doorknob, rustling sounds from behind her halted her progress.
Turning slightly, she saw Cathy lying back down on the bed, swiftly covering her face with the oxygen mask.
Belinda let out a soft, mockingugh, opened the door, and stepped into the corridor without hesitation.
Kristopher was there, seated directly opposite the door. He was frowning, his attention divided between the documents in his hand and the activity inside the room.
Upon seeing Belinda, he swiftly closed the file, set it aside, stood up, and approached her with concern etching his features. ¡°How is it? Has Cathy¡¯s mood stabilized?¡±
Belinda¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°You might want to see for yourself.¡± Her eyes briefly lingered on the smartphone in Kristopher¡¯s grasp. ¡°I¡¯ve done what you asked. Now, I trust you¡¯ll hold up your end of the deal.¡± She needed to witness Kristopher delete thosepromising photos and their backups.
The privacy of her friend was at stake, and she would leave no room for error.
Kristopher¡¯s expression tightened under her scrutinizing gaze. ¡°I¡¯ll deal with the photos once I¡¯ve confirmed Cathy is okay,¡± he replied, his voice firm.
He then quickly entered the resuscitation room. ¡°Cathy, how are you feeling now? Is your mood any better?¡±
From inside came Cathy¡¯s frail response. ¡°Kristopher¡ I feel much improved. Miss Nelson has acknowledged her error and apologized.¡±
Outside, the corridor¡¯s chilly breeze made Belinda¡¯s head throb painfully, as if needles were piercing through her skull. The voices inside only intensified her difort. Follow current nov?ls on Find~Novel
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She would have walked away this instant if not for Madisyn¡¯s privacy. The thought of the photographs Kristopher held forced her to quell the rising impatience.
Sighing, she turned and sat down on one of the two chairs by the entrance. Kristopher had upied one earlier, and his documentsy scattered on the other.
In the past, Belinda couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that everything Kristopher had touched still carried a trace of his presence. And she had never objected to sitting or lying in those ces before. Now, however, she felt a deep aversion, a sense of disgust welling up from within.
Thus, she walked over and picked up the document, intending to move it to the chair Kristopher had upied. But she underestimated its heft.
When she lifted it with one hand, she couldn¡¯t maintain her grip, and the folder dropped to the floor with a loud ¡°bang,¡± scattering the papers in all directions.
Belinda hurriedly squatted down to gather them up.
As she collected the papers, her eyes casually scanned the content of one sheet.
After reading the text on the paper, she froze.
The folder didn¡¯t contain Cox Group¡¯s office documents as she had assumed. It was filled with papers on lung cancer treatment. Belinda¡¯s mind raced.
Why would Kristopher be reading papers rted to lung cancer without any apparent reason? Could it be that he knew about her illness and was researching treatment options for her?
But¡
¡°Belinda,¡± a deep and indifferent male voice called from the side of the resuscitation room door. ¡°What are you doing?¡±
Belinda, still crouched on the floor, looked up instinctively, her voice tinged with a tremor. ¡°Kristopher, why¡ Why are you reading papers on this illness?¡±
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Chapter 132
?Chapter 132:
When Kristopher heard Belinda¡¯s question, he scowled and snapped, ¡°Who gave you the right to look at this document?¡±
Snatching the file from her grasp, he carefully ced it back into the folder on the floor.
After securing the file, he shot Belinda a frigid re and scolded, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t mess with other people¡¯s belongings without asking. Even kids know that, don¡¯t they?¡±
Kristopher had gone to great lengths to obtain these files, which contained sensitive information from a prestigious medical school abroad. He had acquired them after confirming Cathy¡¯s symptoms of terminal gastric cancer, and he knew he had to return them soon. Meanwhile, Belinda had identally dropped the files while he was distracted and even dared to nce at the contents inside.
Kristopher¡¯s icy demeanor left her frozen in shock.
The flicker of hope that had briefly sparked in her heart vanishedpletely.
Was Kristopher not doing this for Belinda¡¯s sake?
He wasn¡¯t a medical expert, nor did hispany, Cox Group, have ties to the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, she didn¡¯t remember him knowing anyone personally suffering from gastric cancer¡ Then it struck Belinda. Cathy often faked illness, alwaysining of stomach pain. So¡
Could it be that Kristopher was concerned Cathy¡¯s recurring stomach issues might lead to gastric cancer? Was that why he was poring over these medical documents?
With that thought, a shiver crept down Belinda¡¯s spine.
In the six months following Kristopher¡¯s recovery, he delighted in the meals Belinda prepared.
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No matter the businessmitment, he would cancel it to rush home for her cooking.
During those months, Belinda felt their connection deepen significantly. Updates are released by find?novel
She took on the role of a devoted wife, preparing dinner daily, eagerly awaiting his return so they could share a meal together.
However, two years into their marriage, Kristopher¡¯s visits home became rare.
Despite this, Belinda clung to her routine, hoping he woulde back to her as he once did.
Consequently, she often postponed her meals, waiting for him, sometimes skipping dinner entirely and going to bed hungry. This led to stomach issues and many sleepless nights from the difort.
Though Belinda never brought it up directly with Kristopher, during family dinners, Anthony would often remind Kristopher of her condition, urging him to take better care of her.
Kristopher would simply offer a distracted chuckle and a promise to do so ¡ª a promise that remained unfulfilled.
From the beginning of Belinda¡¯s stomach issues to her advanced stage of gastric cancer, Kristopher had not once tended to her needs. Instead, it was his assistant, Marc, who stepped in whenever Belinda copsed in pain during the night.
Kristopher showed markedly less concern for her than even his own assistant.
Previously, she had always assumed that his busyness was the reason he couldn¡¯t attend to her like a typical husband would in a normal family. But now¡
The man who had never so much as looked at her with warmth had gone to the lengths of researching a schrly article on gastric cancer because Cathy had feigned a stomach ache.
This was his way of showing care.
¡°Kristopher, did you hear something outside just now?¡±
Cathy¡¯s frail voice snapped Belinda out of her reverie.
Kristopher quickly stashed the papers away, his tone soothing as he turned to address Cathy in the emergency room. ¡°Nothing serious. Belinda just knocked over a water bottle!¡±
Cathy paused, then teased, ¡°I told you it would be dull for Miss Nelson to wait outside by herself. You should have listened. Why don¡¯t you invite Miss Nelson in? We could all enjoy a nice chat together. What do you say?¡±
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Chapter 133
?Chapter 133:
After hearing Cathy out, Kristopher cast an impatient nce at Belinda. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± he dered tersely. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left to discuss with you two.¡±
Belinda took a step back, her gaze steady. ¡°Now that you¡¯ve seen Miss Miller is alright, can we end this? Delete the photos and all backups, and I¡¯ll be out of your hair. You won¡¯t have to deal with me interrupting your time with her anymore.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed deeply at her words. His voice dropped to a whisper, edged with irritation. ¡°Belinda, don¡¯t twist my words. What ¡®time with her¡¯ are you implying? To me, Cathy is nothing more than a sister.¡±
A scornful smile tugged at Belinda¡¯s lips. ¡°Oh, so you two are siblings?¡± The pretense was palpable.
Barely a month before Cathy¡¯s return, he had already made arrangements for an engagement venue and ordered a cake. Yet now, he imed to see Cathy as merely a sister?
Kristopher caught the biting sarcasm in her tone.
He shot Belinda a sharp look. ¡°Believe what you want, but there¡¯s nothing going on between us.¡±
As he reached for his phone to erase Madisyn¡¯s pictures, a faint voice stopped him at the ward¡¯s entrance. ¡°Kristopher, Miss Nelson¡¡±
Kristopher¡¯s movements halted.
¡°Why are you up?¡±
He turned around, swiftly steadying Cathy by her shoulders to escort her back to bed.
¡°I¡ I noticed you both hadn¡¯t returned to the room for a while, so I came to check on you¡¡± Cathy exined, reaching out to clutch Belinda¡¯s sleeve tightly. ¡°Miss Nelson, you¡¯ve already apologized¡ Can¡¯t we put our past differences behind us? Please, don¡¯t mind the simplicity of my ward. Come inside and join Kristopher and me for a chat, will you?¡±
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Belinda scowled. Her instinct was to pull away from Cathy¡¯s grip. ¡°I have nothing to discuss with you two.¡±
Yet, surprisingly, Cathy¡¯s hold was strong, despite her feigned frailty in front of Kristopher.
Belinda tried to free herself but couldn¡¯t dislodge Cathy¡¯s grip; instead, Cathy teetered, nearly tumbling over.
¡°Be careful!¡±
Kristopher quickly braced Cathy, preventing her fall.
Cathy was still holding onto Belinda¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Miss Nelson, do you hate me?¡± she asked, her voice trembling.
Belinda felt a strong urge to nod and confess her true feelings of disdain.
However, knowing Kristopher was still keeping Madisyn¡¯s photos, she feared that her honesty might provoke him.
Reluctantly, she mustered a smile and shook her head, betraying her true desires. ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡±
¡°Why won¡¯t you stay here with Kristopher and keep mepany?¡± Cathy pleaded, her eyes red and filled with tears.
Kristopher, who detested seeing Cathy upset, loosened his tie and gave Belinda an annoyed look. ¡°You don¡¯t have any pressing matters. Spending a little time chatting with Cathy won¡¯t do any harm.¡± He continued, a bit more assertively, ¡°I¡¯ll drive you hometer and take care of things along the way.¡±
Belinda understood he was referring to deleting Madisyn¡¯s photos ¡ª a task he¡¯d onlyplete if sheplied.
Once more, Kristopher was using his leverage over her for Cathy¡¯s benefit.
Suppressing a surge of emotions, Belinda let out a cold, forcedugh.
¡°Fine.¡±
She knew Cathy had reasons for insisting she stay. Get full chapters from find~novel
Belinda was intrigued to find out what Cathy nned to reveal with Kristopher watching.
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Chapter 134
?Chapter 134:
When Belinda nodded her agreement, Cathy¡¯s tears stopped abruptly, reced by a bright smile.
She pouted, snuggling closer to Kristopher and wrapping her arms around his arm. ¡°That¡¯s wonderful! I knew you¡¯d stand up for me and persuade Miss Nelson to stay!¡±
She then turned her smile toward Belinda. ¡°Miss Nelson, thank you for deciding to stay too!¡±
Her voice was thick with gratitude and bubbling excitement. However, her eyes betrayed her, flickering with a mix of challenge and disdain as they met Belinda¡¯s.
Unfazed, Belinda ignored the charged atmosphere, maneuvering past the duo to enter the hospital room.
Her aloof demeanor seemed to dete Cathy¡¯s animosity like air from a balloon.
Cathy¡¯s brows pinched together, a spark of irritation shing through her eyes as she pondered how long Belinda could maintain herposed exterior.
¡°Cathy,¡± Kristopher called out softly, watching Belinda disappear into the room. He furrowed his brows, gently easing Cathy¡¯s grip from his arm to offer her support. ¡°Let¡¯s head inside.¡±
With a quick shift in expression, Cathy dropped the icy look from her eyes and noddedpliantly to Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher.¡±
Once settled back on the bed with his assistance, she raised her eyes to his, her face portraying a deep sense of hurt. ¡°I couldn¡¯t hold back the tears just now¡ Do I look all puffy and ugly now?¡±
Upon hearing her words, Belinda raised an eyebrow and examined Cathy¡¯s face more closely.
It became clear that the tears were genuine, yet Cathy¡¯s face remained immacte, her eyes only slightly reddened, betraying no other signs of distress.
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¡°It¡¯s not ugly,¡± Kristopher said as he nced at Cathy¡¯s face, his tone even.
But Cathy was unconvinced.
She pouted and protested, ¡°It must look terrible. You¡¯re just trying to make me feel better! I don¡¯t believe it. I need to wash my face now. I feel so ugly!¡±
Kristopher massaged his temple, a gesture of resignation, and replied, ¡°Then go wash your face.¡±
He then turned to Belinda. ¡°Just fetch a basin of water for Cathy.¡± This update is avable on
Kristopher spoke as if he was talking to a maid.
Her eyebrow arched higher. How had she ever presented herself to Kristopher that he felt this entitled tomand her as if she were a maid?
With an icy smile, she responded, ¡°Mr. Cox, let¡¯s be clear. I agreed to stay and chat with Miss Miller, not to cater to her needs.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyebrows drew together slightly, betraying a sh of displeasure when Belinda declined his request. ¡°It¡¯s not serving, just helping,¡± he said.
Belinda offered a smile, turning to settle into a chair. ¡°I refuse.¡±
Kristopher watched her rxed posture, feeling a sudden hollowness, as though his heart had been scooped out.
He had always imagined she would be there to support him, never refusing his requests. Yet here she was, denying something as simple as fetching water.
Could it be that his significance to her had diminished?
¡°If Miss Nelson isn¡¯t inclined to help me, then never mind.¡±
As Kristopher stood silently, lost in his thoughts and gazing at Belinda, Cathy frowned slightly and broke the silence. ¡°I¡¯d rather not have someone else fetch the water. What if they misjudge the temperature and scald me?¡±
She looked up, her expression brightening as she spoke to Kristopher. ¡°Why don¡¯t you get the water? You¡¯ve done it so many times before, and you know exactly how I like it. I feel mostfortable when you do it.¡±
¡°Okay,¡± Kristopher said, snapping out of his reverie.
He turned and headed toward the door, pausing as he passed Belinda.
¡°Stay here and try not to trouble Cathy.¡±
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Chapter 135
?Chapter 135:
Lifting her gaze to meet Kristopher¡¯s eyes, Belinda responded indifferently, ¡°That¡¯s something you should tell Miss Miller.¡±
Kristopher scoffed. ¡°As if Cathy could really be any trouble for you?¡±
¡°Miss Nelson isn¡¯t the issue here.¡±
Perched on the edge of the sickbed, Cathy allowed a triumphant smile to y on her lips and turned to Belinda with a voice sweet and mellow. ¡°Kristopher, I appreciate your concern, but you don¡¯t need to be so protective. Just fetch me some water. I¡¯d like to wash my face as soon as possible.¡±
Kristopher, eyebrows knitting together, gave Belinda a piercing look before brushing past her to exit.
As the door clicked shut, leaving only Belinda and Cathy in the room, Cathy¡¯s smile faded, her gaze turning cold. ¡°Are you pleased now? He¡¯s fallen for it.¡±
Belinda arched an eyebrow. ¡°Was that your grand n? To convince me to stay?¡±
¡°Exactly.¡±
Narrowing her eyes, Cathy pressed, ¡°So, when will you erase the recording?¡±
The essence of Cathy¡¯s persistence was clear. It all boiled down to the recording.
¡°I will¡ but not just yet,¡± Belinda replied, her smirk sharp. ¡°If you¡¯re truly worried that Kristopher might discover your act¡¡±
She arched an eyebrow and said, ¡°Just criticize me like you always do and convince him to finalize our divorce as soon as you can.¡± She was eager to sever ties with these two.
She longed to free herself from their entanglement as soon as she got a divorce. Without it, there was no need to reveal any information about Cathy.
Given Kristopher¡¯s fondness for spoiling Cathy, he had iting ¡ª being duped by her made him the fool. Belinda felt no duty to uncover the truth.
Cathy narrowed her eyes and clenched her fists beneath the covers.
The fact that Kristopher and Belinda were still married gnawed at her.
She had repeatedly urged Kristopher to end the marriage.
And what was his response?
He insisted that Belinda¡¯s divorce requests were impulsive, that their disagreements were trivial, and that neither truly wanted a divorce.
Hearing this always left Cathy disheartened.
Yet now, to her surprise, Belinda was the one bringing up the divorce, even challenging Cathy to sway Kristopher.
Belinda¡¯s words, dripping with sarcasm, urged her to speak ill of her in Kristopher¡¯s presence.
Since Cathy¡¯s return nearly a month ago, Kristopher hadn¡¯t as much as kissed her, let alone shared her bed, always maintaining that he saw her as nothing more than a sister.
With narrowed eyes and a gaze filled with loathing, Cathy stared at Belinda.
She was certain that Belinda had orchestrated this intentionally. Belinda taunted that convincing Kristopher to divorce was as unlikely as them sleeping together!
Cathy struggled to keep her anger in check. Narrowing her eyes, she addressed Belinda icily, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Before I returned, Kristopher was already nning to leave you. He¡¯s eager to divorce you and start anew with me. It won¡¯t be long now.¡±
Cathy watched Belinda¡¯s face closely after speaking, expecting her to crumble upon hearing that Kristopher wanted out of their marriage. Belinda, however, merely offered a nonchnt smile and responded, ¡°Well, he should hurry. I¡¯m eager myself.¡± Her calm was unnerving.
It seemed that she really didn¡¯t care about her marriage with Kristopher at all.
Cathy, unable to mask her irritation, scoffed, ¡°You are good at pretending!¡±
It seemed inconceivable to Cathy that Belinda wasn¡¯t shattered by the news. She must be feigning herposure.
¡°You¡¯re hurting inside, aren¡¯t you?¡± Cathy pressed.
Belinda¡¯sughter rang out, light and mocking. ¡°Why would I be sad?¡± she retorted, her smile unwavering.
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Chapter 136
?Chapter 136:
Belinda had long understood Kristopher¡¯s true intentions.
He was eager to get a divorce.
Indeed, a month before Cathy¡¯s return to the country, he had already reserved a venue and ordered a cake for his proposal to her. When Belinda first discovered this, she felt sad for some time.
However, her sadness soon gave way to relief.
She was relieved to know that Kristopher was also nning for the divorce. Otherwise, with his difficult nature, he might have dragged out the process.
If three months passed, she feared she might remain bound to him even beyond death.
So now, when Cathy made her remarks, Belinda felt no stirrings in her heart.
She almost found it amusing.
At that moment, the hospital room door opened.
Kristopher entered, carrying a basin of warm water.
He carefully set it beside Cathy¡¯s bed and handed her a pink towel. Cathy quickly shifted her demeanor and smiled warmly at him. ¡°Thank you, Kristopher!¡±
Kristopher responded with a smirk and affectionately tousled her hair. Belinda watched their close interaction with cold detachment, feeling an unexpected annoyance.
Even though she had moved on from Kristopher, witnessing her ex-husband disy affection for another woman still evoked a flicker of resistance.
¡°Mr. Cox.¡±
She rose to her feet and looked at the two people before her, her expression detached. ¡°You mentioned that after I finish talking with Miss Miller, you will take me back and handle what¡¯s necessary. I have stayed as you asked and spoken with Miss Miller. When do you n to take me back?¡±
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Kristopher frowned and looked at her with annoyance. ¡°Can you at least wait until Cathy has finished washing up?¡± He couldn¡¯t understand why Belinda was in such a rush.
Did she not want to be in the same room with Cathy, or was it him she wished to avoid?
Belinda pressed her lips together and asked again, ¡°Will you take me back after Miss Miller has finished washing her face?¡± ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find~novel
Belinda¡¯s cold demeanor made Kristopher nervously adjust his tie. He looked over to Cathy, who was washing her face with her head down, and asked, ¡°Cathy, what do you think?¡±
¡°Sure.¡±
Cathy finished washing her face, carefully dabbed away the water with a towel, and offered a sweet smile. ¡°Since Miss Nelson is eager to leave, I shouldn¡¯t keep her here, right?¡±
After speaking, she set the towel down and looked at Belinda. ¡°But Miss Nelson, before you go, you need to erase the ugly photo you secretly snapped of me crying earlier!¡±
Belinda was taken aback. ¡°What ugly photo?¡±
¡°Stop ying dumb.¡±
Cathy¡¯s lip quivered as she spoke. ¡°When Kristopher stepped out to get water, you took a photo of me crying with your phone. I saw it!¡± Cathy¡¯s eyes filled with tears again. ¡°We¡¯re friends, so normally, an ugly photo wouldn¡¯t bother me. But now that I¡¯m an actress¡ If that photo gets out¡¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice broke, and tears gathered in her eyes. ¡°My career¡ might just be over.¡±
Belinda gazed at Cathy, bewildered for a moment. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±
What ugly photo? What secret snapshot?
They had been talking the entire time, and she hadn¡¯t even touched her phone.
Moreover, Cathy¡¯s tearful expression earlier wasn¡¯t out of the ordinary. Even if a photo had been taken, it wouldn¡¯t necessarily be ugly, would it?
¡°Miss Nelson, please, I really did see you take a photo of me crying,¡± Cathy pleaded tearfully. ¡°Could you please delete it? I¡¯ve just returned to the country and am still trying to establish myself in the Nawrin Entertainment scene. I can¡¯t afford to have an unttering photo leak.¡±
As Cathy sobbed and struggled to breathe, Kristopher walked over to Belinda with long strides. He extended his hand toward her and demanded, ¡°Hand over the phone.¡±
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Chapter 137
?Chapter 137:
Belinda recoiled as Kristopher reached out to her. ¡°I didn¡¯t sneak a picture of her,¡± she dered.
What was Cathy¡¯s problem?
Belinda couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that associating with Cathy was just bad luck. Why would she deliberately snap a photo of Cathy and leave it on her phone?
¡°But I saw it¡¡± Cathy murmured, leaning against the bed and quietly wiping her tears. ¡°Miss Nelson, I know I¡¯ve hurt you a lot today, and it wasn¡¯t intentional¡ There was really no need for you to apologize and then sneakily take an unttering photo of me¡ My career is just getting off the ground, and I can¡¯t have it destroyed over something like this.¡±
Kristopher frowned deeply. ¡°Delete the photo.¡±
Peering past Kristopher, Belinda studied Cathy¡¯s tear-streaked face.
Her sorrow seemed genuine, her words almost convincing.
Had Belinda not been the one wronged, she might have fallen for Cathy¡¯s act.
It was clear now why Kristopher trusted her so much.
Taking a deep breath, Belinda fixed her gaze on Cathy¡¯s eyes. ¡°Cathy, don¡¯t push me,¡± she warned sternly.
¡°Miss Nelson, please¡¡±
Cathy averted her eyes and wept. ¡°Please, just delete that picture, okay?¡±
Belinda¡¯s frustration surged at Cathy¡¯s response.
Her eyes narrowed. ¡°Cathy, I¡¯ve been more than patient with you. Don¡¯t test my limits!¡±
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¡°You¡¯re the one crossing the line!¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice broke as she spoke, tears mingling with her words. ¡°You¡¯ve got it all wrong about Kristopher and me, and now you¡¯re trying to wreck my career¡¡±
Belinda felt her sanity fraying.
Was Cathy delusional?
She hadn¡¯t acted yet, but Cathy was already using her of foul y, twisting the truth!
In her anger, Belinda inhaled sharply and pulled her phone from her pocket. ¡°You¡¯ve brought this on yourself, Cathy!¡±
If Cathy was going to provoke her this much, she wouldn¡¯t hold back. It was time Kristopher saw Cathy¡¯s true colors.
But as Belinda took out her phone, a man¡¯s hand swiftly grabbed it.
Belinda froze, realization dawning.
It was all a ruse!
Cathy had set up this entire situation just to grab her phone and delete the recording while she had the chance!
And Belinda, baited by Cathy¡¯s words, had foolishly yed into her hands.
As she thought about the situation, a mix of regret and anger swelled in Belinda¡¯s heart. Fuming, she tried to snatch her phone from Kristopher¡¯s grasp. ¡°I didn¡¯t take a photo of her in secret! Give me my phone back!¡±
The difference in their heights posed a significant challenge.
Even when she jumped, Belinda couldn¡¯t get anywhere near the phone in Kristopher¡¯s raised hand.
He skillfully evaded her while entering a sequence of numbers into the phone.
For as long as Kristopher could remember, Belinda¡¯s phone password had been his birthday.
But when he punched in thest digit, the phone didn¡¯t unlock. Instead, it disyed a message: ¡°Password incorrect, please try again.¡±
Kristopher paused, his expression shifting to surprise as he looked down at Belinda. ¡°Did you change the password?¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
Belinda fixed her gaze on Cathy and reached out toward Kristopher again. ¡°Give it back to me. I¡¯ll unlock it myself and show you the photo I took!¡±
But Kristopher wasn¡¯t convinced.
He continued to dodge her attempts to reim the phone, his eyebrows knitting together in suspicion. ¡°Just tell me the new password, and I¡¯ll delete the photo myself.¡± Follow current nov?ls on fin?novel
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Chapter 138
?Chapter 138:
Belinda looked up at the phone in Kristopher¡¯s hand, feeling utterly helpless.
The difference in their heights and strengths was stark.
She couldn¡¯t wrestle her phone back, and reasoning with him seemed futile.
With a deep exhale, her voice carried a hint of resignation. ¡°Kristopher, please give me my phone back. I really didn¡¯t take any photos of Cathy.¡±
Her tone made Kristopher frown and look down at her.
Her eyes were filled with deep exhaustion and helplessness, as if she had been drained of all spirit.
His gaze lingered on her, considering her state.
He was simply asking for her password to delete a picture from the photo album. Was her apprehensive look really necessary?
¡°Kristopher.¡±
Cathy, propped up against the hospital bed, offered a smile. ¡°Miss Nelson might be hesitant to share the password because there¡¯s something in her photo album that you shouldn¡¯t see.¡±
While she spoke, she reached out to Kristopher. ¡°Hand it over to me. I don¡¯t have any conflicts with Miss Nelson, and besides, I¡¯m a woman. It¡¯s more appropriate for me to handle this.¡±
Kristopher lifted an eyebrow, then acquiesced. ¡°Alright.¡± He passed the phone to Cathy. Th?s chapter is updated by fin?novel
Belinda hadn¡¯t anticipated that Kristopher would entrust her phone to Cathy so quickly.
Her scream was almost reflexive as she darted toward Kristopher and Cathy.
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¡°Bang!¡±
In that instant, as Belinda screamed, Cathy¡¯s hand trembled violently. She failed to grasp the phone securely, and it slipped from her hand.
The phone plummeted directly into the basin of water that Cathy had used moments earlier to wash her face, causing water to ssh everywhere.
¡°I¡¯m so sorry. I¡¯m so sorry!¡±
Cathy, wearing a look of rm, instinctively reached to retrieve the phone from the basin.
However, whether by ident or design, she not only failed to secure the phone but also knocked over the basin filled with warm water.
¡°Bang!¡±
As the basin tumbled to the floor, the phone, drenched and damaged, shattered as it hit the hard surface.
Events unfolded rapidly.
By the time Belinda grasped the situation, the floor was already awash. Her phoney in ruins among the spreading puddle, fizzling and emitting wisps of smoke.
This phone had been thest gift from Joyce before her tragic ident. Belinda had cherished it for four years.
Now, as she gazed at the broken phone with itsponents scattered around, her heart felt as if it were being sliced by a knife.
She crouched down, carefully gathering the remnants of the phone, a dull ache spreading across her chest.
¡°Miss Nelson, I¡¯m so sorry¡¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice was heavy with regret as she leaned against the bed. ¡°When you shouted, it startled me, and my hand just shook¡ Then, when I tried to pick it up, I was clumsy and knocked over the basin.¡± She bit her lip, her voice tinged with sorrow. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to do it¡ What model is your phone? I¡¯ll rece it, okay?¡±
Belinda looked up sharply at Cathy, seeing her face marred by what seemed like regret and hearing her timid voice. Yet, Belinda caught a glint of triumph in her eyes.
It was clear to her that Cathy was pleased with herself for destroying the phone that held her recording.
mping her jaw tight, Belinda stared at her and spoke with measured calm, ¡°Was destroying my phone your n from the moment you insisted on my staying here?¡±
Cathy blinked, feigning innocence, yet a trace of satisfaction flickered in her gaze. ¡°Miss Nelson, I really don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±
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Chapter 139
?Chapter 139:
Belinda took a deep breath, fighting the impulse to confront Cathy and reveal her deceit. ¡°No one understands this better than you,¡± she stated calmly.
With a resigned sigh, she collected the shattered remnants of her phone and stowed them in her bag.
Lifting her head, Belinda fixed Cathy with a frosty stare. ¡°Do you really think you¡¯ve solved anything by destroying my phone? What if I have everything backed up?¡±
Cathy¡¯s self-satisfied expression wavered, her face losing color as doubt crept in.
She gnawed on her lip, casting a resentful gaze at Belinda.
Time seemed to stretch before Cathy finally narrowed her eyes and used, ¡°You¡¯re lying to me.¡±
She was convinced Belinda had no backup.
Cathy had been watching Belinda closely from the moment she mentioned the recording.
Even when Belinda had stepped into the corridor, Cathy kept an eye on her from the periphery.
Not once had Belinda checked her phone; how could she have possibly backed it up?
Furthermore, if Belinda truly had a backup, she wouldn¡¯t have been so visibly upset over the loss of her phone.
Clearly, Belinda was merely bluffing.
Cathy grinned and dered confidently, ¡°You have no backup n. You¡¯re just bluffing.¡± This content belongs to f?ndnovel
Belinda returned a subtle smile and replied, ¡°You¡¯ll see if I¡¯m bluffing or not eventually. I hope you can stay asposed as you are now when that timees.¡±
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With those words, Belinda turned and walked away.
The exchange baffled Kristopher.
Noticing Belinda¡¯s intention to leave, his brow furrowed, and he reached out to stop her, asking icily, ¡°What did you back up? Photos of Cathy?¡±
His eyes narrowed, an icy edge to his gaze. ¡°Didn¡¯t you im you never took any photos of Cathy?¡±
He was unaware of the recording, believing they were discussing somepromising photos of Cathy.
¡°I don¡¯t waste my time taking pictures of her,¡± Belinda retorted, frowning and giving him a cold re.
¡°As for what I have backed up¡¡±
She paused and then scoffed. ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask your Miss Miller? I have no intention of exining anything to you.¡±
With that, she turned and made her way toward the exit.
However, her recent leg injury,pounded by her agitation, betrayed her. Her first few steps felt unsteady, as though she were walking on soft padding.
Determined not to appear foolish in front of Kristopher and Cathy, she focused all her effort on maintaining her bnce andposure.
Things didn¡¯t go as nned for her.
Just a few steps in, she tripped and plummeted straight to the floor.
She was so screwed.
By the time she realized she was falling, it was already toote to catch herself.
Belinda shut her eyes and braced for the impact.
Out of nowhere, strong hands gripped her waist, pulling her into a familiar embrace.
The scent of snow pine from the man enveloped her, leaving Belinda momentarily dazed.
Regaining herposure, she swiftly extricated herself from his arms and muttered in a raspy, awkward voice, ¡°Thank you.¡±
She then turned and hurried away.
¡°Belinda.¡±
Kristopher, with a furrowed brow, caught her wrist and nced at her legs, now outlined by her trousers. ¡°Are you hurt badly?¡±
¡°It¡¯s nothing serious. Just a clumsy fall.¡±
Belinda, her face set in a stoic expression, shrugged off his hand and walked out with determined strides.
Now, cautious from her near fall, she moved with greater care. Though she was no longer as frail as before, it was obvious from her gait that she had been hurt.
Watching her retreating back, Kristopher exhaled deeply. He nced over at Cathy and said, ¡°Her legs are injured. I need to check on her.¡± With that, he turned to leave.
Cathy paused briefly, then her lips trembled, and she started to cry again. ¡°Kristopher¡ Are you really going to leave me here all by myself?¡±
She clenched her lips tightly, her voice quivering. ¡°I¡¯m scared of being alone¡¡±
Kristopher, his brow furrowed, looked back at Belinda¡¯s distant figure and then at Cathy¡¯s tear-stained cheeks. He replied gently, ¡°Stay calm. We¡¯re in a hospital. There¡¯s nothing to worry about here. Doctors and nurses are just outside. If you need anything, just use the call button.¡±
As Kristopher made to follow Belinda, Cathy inhaled sharply, her voice cracking as she spoke. ¡°In your heart¡ am I less important than Belinda?¡±
Her question rang out loudly.
Belinda, having reached the corridor, stopped dead in her tracks upon hearing this.
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Chapter 140
?Chapter 140:
Kristopher paused for a moment.
After a brief silence, he exhaled deeply and moved back to Cathy¡¯s side, carefully smoothing a crease in her nket. ¡°Why do you ask that all of a sudden?¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes were wet with unshed tears. ¡°I¡¯m a patient too. You actually want to leave me alone and go with her¡¡±
She bit her lip, her gaze fixed on him. ¡°Kristopher, who matters more to you, me or Belinda?¡±
Her voice wavered with emotion, yet she made no attempt to lower it. Out of reflex, Kristopher¡¯s eyes darted toward the hallway.
Belinda, who should have been on her way to the elevator by now, was standing by in the corridor with her back to them, seemingly upied with something he couldn¡¯t discern.
A twinge of unease settled in Kristopher¡¯s chest.
Cathy¡¯s words were loud enough. Belinda probably heard them. And there she was¡
Was she genuinely feeling unwell, taking a moment to rest against the wall, or was it something else? Was she lingering there, waiting to hear his response, just as Cathy was? A cold smirk crept onto Kristopher¡¯s lips.
Hadn¡¯t Belinda dered she no longer cared about him and wanted a divorce?
Why then, did she seem so eager to know where she stood in his heart? A cold smirk formed on his lips as he contemted.
¡°Cathy, do you recall the promise I made when we met again after all those years?¡±
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Cathy paused, her expression uncertain for a moment before her eyes lit up. ¡°You told me then, apart from your family, I was the most important person in your life!¡±
¡°That¡¯s right.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze drifted past her, fixing on the figure of Belinda leaning against the wall in the distance. ¡°And that hasn¡¯t changed.¡±
Belinda¡¯s frame shuddered subtly as Kristopher¡¯s words echoed in her mind.
She then took a tentative step and began her slow walk toward the elevator.
Watching her, Kristopher didn¡¯t feel the joy he might have expected. Instead, a suffocating sensation gripped his heart, as if it were wrapped in stic wrap.
¡°So, Kristopher, you¡¯re saying I matter more to you than Belinda does, right?¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice grew loud with excitement, almost as if she wanted the whole world to hear her. ¡°I knew it! You care about me the most!¡±
Meanwhile, Belinda, with her feeble steps, reached the elevator and stared at the changing numbers on the disy.
She had harbored feelings for Kristopher for many years, and despite Cathy¡¯s pointed question, a sliver of hope lingered in her heart. Yet, even without the affirmation she yearned for, the pain in her heart barely stirred.
Everyone knew Kristopher favored Cathy.
Belinda hade to terms with that reality.
Momentster, the elevator arrived.
Gathering herposure, Belinda stepped inside and hurriedly pushed the button to close the doors.
Just as the doors were inching shut, a thin, pale hand wedged itself into the opening.
The doors slid open once more.
Belinda¡¯s eyes widened in surprise as she saw the man in ck standing there.
Wasn¡¯t he just getting cozy with Cathy? Hadn¡¯t Cathy wanted him to stay by her side?
How had he appeared here?
Kristopher stepped into the elevator, positioning himself close to Belinda.
The subtle scent wafted from him, prompting Belinda to edge away. She knitted her brows, puzzled. ¡°Weren¡¯t you supposed to be looking after Miss Miller?¡± Get full chapters from FindN()vel
Kristopher pressed the button for the second floor. ¡°I told you I¡¯d bring you back and do what I promised to do on the way.¡±
He gave her a sidelong nce. ¡°Why? Aren¡¯t you eager to watch me erase those photos yourself?¡±
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Chapter 141
?Chapter 141:
It suddenly urred to Belinda that Kristopher had indeed made this promise before. Her anger just now had clouded her judgment and made her forget all about it.
Belinda turned to Kristopher with a sigh, a faint trace of regret passing over her face. ¡°What then, Mr. Cox? Are you here to fulfill your promise? Are you going to send me away and delete all the photos on the way?¡±
Instead of replying, Kristopher simply took a deep breath and looked straight ahead with a nk expression.
It was as good as a yes.
Belinda pursed her lips and hesitated. After a moment, she said, ¡°There¡¯s actually no need for you to go through all this trouble. I¡¯m perfectly capable of going back on my own. Just delete the photos right here and now, in front of me. Make sure to take down all the backup data, too.¡±
Kristopher nced at her with narrowed eyes. ¡°So you¡¯re unwilling to spend time with me together?¡± She was his wife, for goodness¡¯ sake!
Couldn¡¯t he even take her home now?
Belinda shed him a sardonic smile. ¡°Look, I just don¡¯t want to get in between you and Miss Miller, that¡¯s all.¡±
¡°Nothing you do can affect us,¡± Kristopher retorted with a sneer.
That made Belinda¡¯s smile freeze for a few seconds.
She blinked as she realized he was right.
She hadpletely misunderstood her position.
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If she truly had the power to interfere between those two in any way, Kristopher and Cathy wouldn¡¯t still be entangled after three years.
With this thought in mind, Belinda no longer felt the need to protest.
He was just taking her home, anyway. It wasn¡¯t as if that single gesture would change anything, so what was the point in angering him and upsetting herself?
Right on cue, the elevator stopped its descent and opened its doors.
Belinda didn¡¯t even check the floor number. She took a step forward and walked out with her chin held high.
It wasn¡¯t until she was fully out in the hallway that she realized it wasn¡¯t the first-floor lobby.
She looked around in puzzlement. She knew for a fact that she had pressed the button for the first floor.
Belinda huffed slightly and turned to go back inside the elevator, only to run into Kristopher¡¯s tall figure.
He nced pointedly at her leg. ¡°Are you going to have your leg examined? Or are you going to soldier on without having it checked?¡±
Belinda finally looked at the floor number ¡ª they were on the hospital¡¯s second floor, the area designated for external and contusion injuries.
¡°I know my own body better than anyone else does. There is no need for others to worry about my well-being.¡± She scowled at Kristopher, then walked around him and into the elevator. She jabbed at the down button again. ¡°You said that you would take me home and delete the photos, right? We didn¡¯t agree to let you apany me to check my legs. So, I refuse!¡±
Yes, she was injured, but her earlier disy of weakness wasn¡¯t rted to it. She had simply been sitting for too long and was in a bad mood, to boot.
Belinda was definitely feeling much better now, and she was confident that she didn¡¯t need any medical attention.
Kristopher gritted his teeth as anger swelled in his chest. ¡°Don¡¯t you care about yourself at all? Do you even realize how many bruises you have on your leg?¡±
Belinda scoffed. ¡°Like I said, I know my own body. There¡¯s no need for an outsider to worry about it.¡±
Seeing that Kristopher was blocking the elevator entrance, Belinda turned around and walked toward the stairs.
They were only on the second floor, so it shouldn¡¯t be that bad taking the stairs all the way down.
Kristopher, on the other hand, seethed at being dismissed as an outsider in her affairs. Newest update provided by F?nd-Novel
¡°Outsider?¡± he growled as he grabbed her by the wrist and stopped her from walking away. ¡°Remember, Belinda, we aren¡¯t divorced yet!¡±
Belinda turned to give him a mocking smirk. ¡°What difference does it make?¡±
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Chapter 142
?Chapter 142:
Kristopher¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as he gazed at her in silence. Belinda found it utterly boring.
She nced at him with indifference and spoke his name, ¡°Kristopher. Had I not fallen ill and missed our meeting that day, our marriage would have ended long ago.¡±
¡°So, you missed the appointment because you didn¡¯t really want the divorce, did you?¡±
His eyes narrowed, a mocking tone in his voice. ¡°Belinda, there¡¯s only so much drama one can create. You¡¯ve threatened divorce too many times. It¡¯s bound to happen eventually.¡±
He had believed the divorce saga was over when she took refuge in the hospital, avoiding the court and the finalization of their divorce!
And yet, here she was, bringing it up again.
It seemed endless, an exaggeration gone too far!
For a moment, Belinda was taken aback, slowly grasping the implication of his words.
Did he really think she was just venting and didn¡¯t want a divorce?
What was going through his mind?
Did he still think she was the same person who once dreaded the thought of leaving him? She was utterly frustrated!
With a helpless sigh, Belinda suddenly lost the will to continue the conversation.
They had been together for three years, yet Kristopher had never truly understood her.
He arrogantly dismissed her concerns, convinced she was overreacting and that she would never actually leave him.
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Fed up, Belinda yanked on Kristopher¡¯s arm, too frustrated to utter another word. She spun around and hurried toward the stairwell.
Overwhelmed by her emotions, or perhaps misled by the dim light in the fire exit, she missed the first step and tumbled down the stairs.
In a sh, Kristopher leaped forward and caught her arm, yanking her back to safety.
Propelled by the sudden motion, her slight frame crashed into his chest.
The familiar scent of cedar from him enveloped her.
Shocked, Belinda instinctively pressed against him, her breathing rapid, her heart racing.
Sensing her distress, Kristopher frowned. He soothingly rubbed her back, his voice chilly as he warned, ¡°You already took a nasty fall down the stairs this morning. Are you trying for a repeat performance? You might break a leg this time.¡±
His stern tone gradually calmed Belinda¡¯s frantic heart.
After a moment, she inhaled deeply, pulling away from his embrace. ¡°Thank you,¡± she muttered, her voice low.
She then turned to grasp the stairwell¡¯s handrail, intent on descending alone.
But as she moved, Kristopher watched her determined, slender figure. He raised an eyebrow, stepped forward, and, without a word, scooped her into his arms.
Belinda¡¯s feet left the ground, and she instinctively clutched at his clothes, her exmation caught in her throat.
After a moment, the reality of the situation dawned on her.
Belinda resisted, eximing, ¡°Let me go!¡±
¡°Let you go?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s voice rose in disbelief as he tightened his hold on her, hurrying toward the consultation room. ¡°Do you want to tumble down the stairs again? Are you a masochist?¡±
Belinda scowled and shot back, ¡°That¡¯s none of your concern! Let go of me!¡±
Her attempts to free herself grew more frantic. ¡°Put me down!¡± she demanded.
Kristopher had rarely held her this close during their time together. Now, with divorce proceedings looming, he found himself embracing her twice in less than a morning. Was there something wrong with him?
As Belinda continued to squirm in his grasp, a subtle smile yed on Kristopher¡¯s lips, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes that even he didn¡¯t fully notice. N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on F?nd-Novel
So, she had her fiery moments too.
The old Belinda had always been poised, serene, and softly spoken¡ªalmost like a well-programmed robot.
But now, amidst the chaos of their divorce and her ns to move out, she seemed to transform into someone entirely new¡ªvibrant and full of life.
With a mischievous glint in his eye, Kristopher loosened his grip slightly. ¡°If you keep up this fuss, I might just let you go and see if you really do fall.¡±
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Chapter 143
?Chapter 143:
As she was lifted off the ground, Belinda instinctively cried out in surprise and wrapped her arms tightly around his neck. ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± She had been pushed down the stairs in the morning and kicked by Cathy at noon, leaving her body riddled with injuries.
If Kristopher dropped her and she fell again, she would end up even more battered.
The moment her arms encircled his neck, the distinct fragrance of orange blossoms from her skin,bined with the softness of her body,pletely enveloped him.
Kristopher paused, his heart unexpectedly skipping a beat.
He gazed at her face, a smile slowly forming at the corners of his mouth. Newest update provided by Find?Novel
It seemed she could feel fear and vulnerability too.
Belinda clung to his neck a moment longer before she realized the moment had taken a decidedly intimate turn.
She instinctively looked up and met Kristopher¡¯s smile.
His eyes were captivating, deep, and luminous like obsidian¡ªunreadable.
This was a look Belinda had never seen directed at her before.
Lost in his gaze, she felt momentarily entranced.
The hospital corridor was bustling with noise.
Yet, at that moment, all the noise seemed to vanish for Belinda. She and Kristopher locked eyes, and the air around them was charged with unspoken tension.
That was until a woman¡¯s voice shattered the moment. ¡°What are you doing?¡±
M??? ??d???? ?? g????????.????
Cathy, looking frail in her wheelchair, was being wheeled towards them by a young nurse.
Her eyes showed pain and confusion. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you were just taking Miss Nelson to the trauma department? But¡¡± Tears started to fill Cathy¡¯s eyes. ¡°Kristopher, you lied to me!¡±
Her usation snapped Kristopher back to the present.
He frowned and hastily set Belinda down.
Perhaps because he acted too quickly, he let go before Belinda was steady on her feet.
Belinda stumbled, nearly hitting the floor.
Luckily, she managed to grab the handrail along the corridor wall.
¡°Cathy, don¡¯t cry.¡±
Belinda listened to Kristopher¡¯s soothing voice as she leaned against the wall, catching her breath. ¡°Crying makes your stomach hurt again.¡±
He approached Cathy, offering her a packet of tissues. ¡°Didn¡¯t I ask you to stay in your room and rest?¡±
Cathy clung to Kristopher¡¯s sturdy waist, sobbing. ¡°I waited for you for ten minutes, and you didn¡¯t return. I got worried, so¡¡±
Tears streamed down her face as she rested her head against Kristopher¡¯s stomach, ncing at Belinda with a challenging sparkle in her eyes. ¡°Kristopher, I trust you so deeply¡ If you had told me earlier that you were bringing Miss Nelson here, I wouldn¡¯t have minded¡ Why did you deceive me? Didn¡¯t you once promise you¡¯d never lie to your good girl?¡±
Kristopher sighed. ¡°Cathy, this was my mistake. I simply didn¡¯t want to cause you any worry.¡±
Belinda leaned against the wall, gathering her strength, while inwardly scoffing at their exchange.
¡°Never lie to his good girl¡¡±
Those were the words Kristopher had once spoken to her five years ago. Back then, Kristopher was a vulnerable young man with bandages over his eyes, and she was the humble caregiver tasked with looking after him.
Kristopher had vowed that once he recovered, he would find her, repay her kindness, and stay with her forever.
But in reality¡ she waited tirelessly for him to recover and return, only to find him two yearster, perfectly paired with Cathy and admired by her.
Belinda had thought it was just a typical case of men not keeping their promises, and that Kristopher had simply forgotten his words to her. She hadn¡¯t realized he selectively remembered his promises ¡ª those made to her were forgotten.
He remembered every word he ever told Cathy and responded to each one with rity.
Perhaps this was the stark contrast between love and neglect.
¡°Miss Nelson.¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice drew Belinda out of her reverie.
She instinctively turned to Cathy.
The woman, offering a sweet smile, reclined in her wheelchair. ¡°Why did you have Kristopher carry you like that? Are you unable to walk?¡± As she spoke, she rose from the wheelchair. ¡°You should have mentioned it sooner. I would have let you use this. Don¡¯t you realize that, with your current rtionship status with Kristopher, it¡¯s necessary to keep your distance now?¡±
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Chapter 144
?Chapter 144:
Cathy¡¯s words drained the color from Belinda¡¯s knuckles as she gripped the handrail.
She had been contemting divorcing Kristopher for some time now, yet technically, they were still a couple, weren¡¯t they?
However, Cathy was suggesting that they should keep their distance.
¡°Cathy!¡± Kristopher called out, his brow furrowing as he noticed her overstepping. ¡°I promised Grandpa I¡¯d look after her.¡±
¡°But must you hold her?¡± Cathy retorted, her eyes brimming with tears. She raised her voice, a note of usation in her tone. ¡°Kristopher, you¡¯re just too nice. You¡¯re blind to the maniptions some women are capable of! We¡¯re in a hospital. You can easily hire a nurse or get a wheelchair. If she¡¯s truly unwell, there are professional solutions avable. Why do you need to hold her yourself?¡±
Cathy¡¯s raised voice drew the attention of those around them.
Heads turned, and whispers began to circte.
¡°Isn¡¯t that Cathy Miller, the actress who just returned to the spotlight?¡±
¡°And the man with her, that¡¯s her boyfriend Kristopher Cox, right?¡±
¡°Yes, yes. I¡¯ve been following their romance online. They¡¯re absolutely adorable together!¡±
¡°I heard that Mr. Cox waited for Miss Miller for three years while she was studying abroad. His devotion is just remarkable¡¡±
The crowd swelled around them, voices rising in a chorus of whispers and pointed fingers directed at Belinda.
¡°Based on what Miss Miller mentioned earlier, is thisdy bothering her boyfriend?¡±
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¡°Yes, she imed her legs were hurt and requested Miss Miller¡¯s boyfriend to assist her.¡±
¡°How disgraceful! Mr. Cox is already taken, yet she clings to him, aspiring to be the other woman.¡±
¡°And who does she think she is, needing someone else¡¯s boyfriend to help her just because she¡¯s injured? How utterly tactless and shameless.¡±
Belinda heard it all, a sardonic smile tugging at the corners of her lips. Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n find¡¤novel
She remained, in the eyes of thew, Kristopher¡¯s legitimate wife.
It was Cathy, not Belinda, who aspired to be the interloper.
Yet, the public disys of affection between Kristopher and Cathy had painted Belinda as the outsider, subject to public ridicule.
Kristopher, witnessing the spectacle, furrowed his brow in difort. He gentlyforted Cathy with a pat on her back but couldn¡¯t help but turn towards Belinda.
She stood there, back against the wall, a bitter, self-mocking smile still ying on her lips as she endured the harsh words swirling around her.
The sight tugged at his heartstrings.
He opened his mouth, about to defend Belinda, when a blur of blue cut through the crowd, striding decisively towards her side.
Fred approached Belinda and stopped right in front of her. ¡°This is a hospital, not a market! Don¡¯t you know you should keep quiet?¡± He nced coldly at the surrounding bystanders who were whispering among themselves. ¡°You should mind your words. Too much gossip brings bad karma and can prevent your illness¡ªand your family¡¯s¡ªfrom being cured!¡±
Perhaps it was Fred¡¯s youthful appearance or the vehement tone of his voice that made his warning seem like a threat of imminent confrontation.
The bystanders fell silent.
One of them muttered, ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here. Talk about bad luck! We came for a spectacle and ended up cursed¡¡±
With that, the rest of the crowd, now disenchanted, gradually dispersed.
Once they were gone, Fred turned his attention back to Belinda and asked, ¡°Are you all right?¡±
Belinda nodded and offered him a grateful smile. ¡°Thank you.¡±
¡°My pleasure.¡±
He then nced down at her legs. ¡°Did youe to get your legs checked?¡±
Before she could respond, he scooped her up, cradling her slender frame in his arms.
Turning defiantly to Kristopher and Cathy, who were lingering nearby, he dered, ¡°Your ex doesn¡¯t care enough to apany you to the doctor, preferring thepany of his mistress. Forget about him! I can hold you, not just now, but all day if need be!¡±
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Chapter 145
?Chapter 145:
Suddenly, Belinda felt herself being lifted off the floor, which caused a momentary panic to rise within her. She bit her lip and instinctively looked in Kristopher¡¯s direction. He was watching her and Fred with an unreadable expression, one that felt unfamiliar.
Remembering how tense Kristopher had seemed while dealing with Fred the previous evening, Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed in concern. She was about to resist when Fred¡¯s voice whispered softly, ¡°Belinda.¡± N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on find¡¤novel
His words, spoken so only she could hear, held a gentle urgency. ¡°I¡¯ve been watching for a while. It took a lot of courage to approach you, so please don¡¯t turn me away.¡± His voice wasced with hope, and his smile was almost pleading.
Belinda hesitated, reflecting on his words. ¡°Fred, you¡¯re being too impulsive.¡±
He was so young, so innocent. It seemed misguided for him to get involved with someone like her. After a deep breath, she stopped trying to pull away.
She decided to soften, slipping her arm around Fred¡¯s neck in a gesture that appeared warm, but was subtle. ¡°Fred, thank you for helping me get to the doctor,¡± she said with a faint, genuine smile. Turning slightly, she gave Cathy a soft, dismissive smile. ¡°Miss Miller, I appreciate your earlier concern, but I won¡¯t need the wheelchair. Feel free to use it yourself.¡±
She then gestured toward the consultation room. ¡°Come on, Fred. Let¡¯s go.¡±
Fred, understanding her cue, tightened his grip reassuringly, and together, they walked toward the consultation room with purpose.
¡°Miss Nelson certainly seems to be well-liked¡¡± Cathy murmured, watching them leave.
As Cathy observed Fred carrying Belinda away, aplex mix of jealousy and satisfaction flickered across her face. She envied Belinda for capturing the attention of such a young man. Yet, a smug sense of triumph washed over her as she saw Belinda show affection to another man in front of Kristopher. She was certain it would leave a stain on Belinda¡¯s image in his eyes.
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Intent on stirring trouble, Cathy remarked to Kristopher, ¡°Isn¡¯t that the same young man who was with her at Peace Hospital yesterday? Though Miss Nelson imed he was just a nurse, their connection seems rather intimate.¡±
After herment, she looked up at Kristopher, forcing a smile. ¡°Kristopher¡¡±
She hoped her words would irritate him and sour his opinion of Belinda. However, when Cathy turned toward him, she found his gaze not following Belinda, but sharply focused on her instead. His look was prating, as if he could strip away her facade and see through to her true intentions.
Startled by his intense scrutiny, Cathy quickly averted her eyes, unable to withstand his piercing stare. She stammered, ¡°Kristopher¡¡±
¡°Cathy,¡± Kristopher interrupted, his tone devoid of any previous warmth. ¡°Were you being intentional just now?¡±
As a well-known actress, Cathy understood better than most the implications of raising her voice in a public setting. Yet, she had not only spoken out, but also drawn a crowd, turning Belinda into the subject of public scrutiny.
Kristopher had noticed someone filming the scene. The possibility of such videos going viral weighed heavily on him.
With these thoughts in mind, his gaze toward Cathy grew even frostier.
¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about,¡± Cathy replied, struggling to steady her breath. She looked up at Kristopher, her eyes welling with tears. ¡°Kristopher, do you really think I spoke so loudly on purpose to embarrass Miss Nelson? How could you think that of me? After all these years, you should know who I am.¡±
Her voice broke as she continued, ¡°I was just¡ I¡¯m just too overwhelmed.¡±
¡°Too overwhelmed?¡± Before Cathy could respond, a mocking voice called out from nearby, ¡°Miss Miller, this excuse might only fool Kristopher.¡±
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Chapter 146
?Chapter 146:
Cathy and Kristopher both looked up sharply at the sound of the voice. Belinda, who had just been in the consultation room, was now approaching them with measured steps.
As their eyes met hers, she spoke, her tone tinged with usation. ¡°Miss Miller mentioned that your outburst was due to being overwhelmed. Why is that?¡±
She moved closer to Cathy, who was seated in a wheelchair, and looked down at her. ¡°You should remember that Kristopher and I are still married. Whether he hugs me or we share a bed has nothing to do with you. Why would that upset you? Have you, with your recent high-profile outings with Kristopher, started to think of yourself as his wife and me as the other woman? What right do you have to demand that my husband and I distance ourselves from each other? What right do you have to react so emotionally upon seeing my husband hold me?¡±
Belinda continued, her gaze piercing as she observed Cathy¡¯s face turning pale. ¡°And as an actress, didn¡¯t your agency teach you to watch your words and actions in public?¡±
While speaking, she pulled out her phone and disyed a recent news alert to them. ¡°If you were merely overwhelmed by emotion earlier, then how do you exin this?¡±
Cathy nced at the phone, taken aback.
The screen showed a video of their earlier altercation, now making headlines.
The sensational title read, ¡°Drama Queen Publicly Begs for a Hug, Original Wife Furious!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed as he too caught sight of the headline.
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The speed at which the media acted surpassed his expectations. Barely ten minutes had passed since the argument was caught on camera, yet the video of Cathy and Belinda¡¯s sh had already gone viral, dominating the top spot on local entertainment news websites. ¡°So, I¡¯mbeled the drama queen, and Miss Miller, you¡¯re supposedly the wronged wife?¡±
Belinda, taking a deep breath and pocketing her phone, turned to face Cathy and Kristopher with a grave expression. ¡°Look, I¡¯m just an average person. I don¡¯t want to be the center of gossip online. I hope you two can sort this out quickly. Otherwise, I won¡¯t hesitate to show my marriage certificate with Mr. Cox and clear up who the real other woman is.¡±
Everyone has their breaking point, and Belinda felt she had reached hers.
She had exercised considerable patience, all in the hope of facilitating a smooth divorce. She carefully managed her reactions to avoid upsetting Cathy and Kristopher, bottling up her frustrations as much as possible.
But Cathy¡¯s actions were bing intolerably outrageous.
Despite the looming divorce, Belinda still harbored aspirations of carving out a niche for herself in the world of jewelry design. She dreamt of seeing her designsmercially avable before her time ran out. Given that the realms of jewelry and fashion often intersected with the entertainment industry, her aspirations weren¡¯t far-fetched. But once the scandal broke, her future prospects were in jeopardy. When Belinda came across the news, she was furious and could no longer hold back. She confronted Cathy.
Upon hearing Belinda¡¯s usations, Cathy¡¯splexion turned ghostly white.
She bit her lip and stared at Belinda, her face etched with sorrow. ¡°You¡¯re upset about the headlines, so you¡¯reshing out at me? I didn¡¯t cause those articles to be published. Why me me? All I did was get a bit too emotional and raised my voice. How is that my fault?¡±
With those words, she hastily reached out and clung to Kristopher¡¯s arm, her eyes brimming with tears of injustice. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯ve stood by your side all along. You know better than anyone that I¡¯m not behind those articles! I haven¡¯t even used my phone. I didn¡¯t orchestrate those reports! Why does Miss Nelson use me?¡± Updates are released by find?novel
Her plea visibly troubled Kristopher.
Indeed, Belinda had just departed, and Cathy had not been near her phone.
Kristopher turned to Belinda and said, ¡°The online articles truly aren¡¯t Cathy¡¯s doing. It¡¯s wrong to use her.¡±
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Chapter 147
?Chapter 147:
¡°Wrong to use her?¡±
Fred, who had been trailing behind Belinda, scoffed and pulled out his phone to disy a news article. ¡°Mr. Cox, as the CEO of Cox Group, you wield immense power and resources, surely enough to thoroughly investigate my background in no time. So, you must realize, even more than I do, that the rapid spread of this incident online in just ten minutes suggests someone is orchestrating it. And your Miss Miller, being a major celebrity familiar with trending news and how to manipte media, fits the profile.¡±
He looked up to meet Kristopher¡¯s gaze, which was sharp and dark. ¡°Do you genuinely believe we are wrongly using her?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. He looked at Fred, his voiceced with frosty disdain. ¡°Who empowered you to talk to me like this?¡±
Kristopher had already been uneasy when seeing that Fred had carried Belinda away. He had initially let it slide since Fred had stepped in to defuse the tension between Belinda and Cathy. Yet here was Fred, boldly speaking up in such a forward manner. Belinda was his wife; her heated words might pass without offense. But who did Fred think he was?
Kristopher¡¯s gaze hardened as he gave Fred a dismissive look before turning to Belinda with a slight sneer. ¡°You enlisted someone this foolish to stand up for you. Do you think you can always protect him?¡±
Belinda¡¯s face drained of color. She instinctively moved to block Fred from Kristopher¡¯s gaze. ¡°He¡¯s just concerned.¡±
¡°Does he have any reason to be?¡± Kristopher scoffed, nced at the news on his phone, and then tucked it away. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of the situation online, so it doesn¡¯t affect you.¡± With that, he stared intensely at Belinda and added, ¡°I¡¯ll also figure out who¡¯s really behind this. Cathy has nothing to do with this; don¡¯t drag her into it.¡±
Seeing him defend Cathy, Belinda couldn¡¯t help but let out a bitterugh. When she admired Kristopher, she had viewed him as the most capable and intelligent man alive.
Your next chapter awaits g?ln¦Ò¦Í??ls?c?m
Now, seeing him deceived by Cathy, Belinda wasing to her senses. She had given him too much credit. At his core, Kristopher was just another ordinary man. Every word Cathy spoke was aw to him. She had been foolish, sacrificing five of her best years and risking her life for such a man.
¡°Belinda.¡±
At that moment, Fred¡¯s low voice reached her ears. ¡°Remember the photos.¡±
Belinda snapped back to reality. Drawing a deep breath, she fixed Kristopher with an icy stare. ¡°When you say not to drag her into this, are you asking me not to upload our marriage certificate online and reveal her as the other woman?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened, but he remained silent. Sitting in the wheelchair, Cathy clenched her fists. ¡°Miss Nelson, no one knows better than you who the real other woman is between us! If you dare to upload that marriage certificate online, I¡¯ll let everyone know how you stole Kristopher from me and forced him into marriage three years ago!¡±
Belinda hadn¡¯t anticipated that Cathy would raise this point.
¡°Fine,¡± Belinda retorted, her eyebrow arched, giving Cathy a scornful look. ¡°You im I destroyed your rtionship three years ago. Yet, after Mr. Cox¡¯s car ident left himatose, you didn¡¯t spare him a nce and fled the country overnight. I¡¯d be interested to hear your exnation for leaving then, Miss Miller.¡±
At Belinda¡¯s usation, Cathy¡¯s face flushed crimson. She pointed a shaking finger at Belinda, too enraged to speak clearly. Checktest chapters at find~novel
¡°You¡ you!¡±
¡°Cathy.¡±
Seeing her distressed state, Kristopher quickly approached to take her hand, then turned to give Belinda a frosty re. ¡°Don¡¯t push it! There were reasons for what Cathy did back then!¡±
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Chapter 148
?Chapter 148:
Fred was unaware of the past animosities between the trio, stretching back over three years. Yet, when he overheard Belinda and Kristopher¡¯s conversation, he couldn¡¯t suppress augh.
¡°So her boyfriend turns into a vegetable after the crash, and she flees the country without a backward nce? Sounds like she¡¯s just dodging the fallout, doesn¡¯t it? I mean, there¡¯s no justifying that, right?¡±
He finished, throwing a nce at Kristopher¡¯s somber expression, and shed a mischievous smile. ¡°Just weighing in on the gossip, no offense meant, sir.¡±
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
Cathy, tears brimming in her eyes, grasped Kristopher¡¯s hand and nestled closer to him. ¡°Please, don¡¯t take it to heart. What they say doesn¡¯t affect me. As long as you truly understand what I¡¯m facing.¡± Her voice trembled, barely a whisper.
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened as he remembered the medical charts he¡¯d reviewed earlier that confirmed Cathy was battling advanced stomach cancer. He had even questioned the doctor about the severity of the pain it could induce. The doctor¡¯s description was haunting: ¡°The pain can escte to where no painkiller can suppress it.¡±
Reflecting on Cathy¡¯s suffering filled him with sorrow. She had saved his life five years earlier; now, stricken with this cruel disease, she faced immense pain while he stood by, feeling utterly helpless.
Kristopher lifted his eyes, fixing Belinda with an icy stare. ¡°I¡¯ve got the online news covered. There¡¯s no need for you to go after Cathy. She hasn¡¯t done anything wrong.¡±
Belinda scoffed. When had she ever gone after Cathy? It was clearly Cathy who hade after her!
¡°Kristopher, I appreciate your faith in me, and that you¡¯ve got my back,¡± Cathy murmured, her voice tinged with gratitude as she clung to his sturdy waist. ¡°If not for you¡ I¡¯d be facing baseless usations¡¡±
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Belinda rolled her eyes once more.
¡°Belinda, the photos.¡±
Fred¡¯s voice cut through the tension, his tone low.
Snapping out of her thoughts, Belinda responded with a dismissive sniff. ¡°If you insist on keeping our marriage certificate off the inte and don¡¯t want me to share what happened three years ago with the public, I can live with that. But¡¡±
She lifted her gaze to Kristopher as she spoke. ¡°Mr. Cox, I hope you can agree to three conditions. If you do, I promise never to bring up our marriage or the events of three years ago in public.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Go on.¡± This text is hosted at F?nd-Novel
Belinda¡¯s face broke into a smug, triumphant smile, prompting a sudden suspicion in him that he was being yed.
Once Kristopher nodded in agreement, Belinda¡¯s demeanor turned cheerful.
¡°First, you need to keep the promises you made. Erase the photos and backups from your phone, and the bet we ced at the racetrackst time ¡ª transfer the money to me. Second, I need you to clear all the negative press about me online to prevent any further impact on my reputation. And finally¡¡±
Her eyes locked onto Kristopher and Cathy with an intense gaze. ¡°We need to visit the courthouse within three days and finalize our divorce.¡±
Initially, Belinda had hoped Kristopher would be the one to suggest they divorce. However, witnessing his closeness with Cathy made her increasingly resentful of their marriage with each passing day. Thus, sheid out her terms inly. She wanted to divorce him within three days.
The prolonged connection was not only emotionally taxing but physically draining as well, particrly with her battlingte-stage cancer.
¡°Fine!¡±
Before Kristopher could respond, Cathy interjected with palpable excitement, ¡°It¡¯s settled then!¡±
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Chapter 149
?Chapter 149:
¡°Clearly.¡±
Fred rested his hands behind his head, sporting a mocking grin. ¡°Miss Miller seems quite eager.¡±
Once he spoke, Fred lifted his gaze and looked at Kristopher with a hint of disdain. ¡°Now that Miss Miller has agreed, will you follow her lead? First, delete those photos Belinda asked you to delete, and don¡¯t forget about the bet you backed out of at the racetrack.¡±
Pulling out his phone with a cool stare, Kristopher replied, ¡°You two seem very close.¡±
¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?¡±
Fred¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°If you can have your girlfriend, why can¡¯t Belinda have me as her boyfriend?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression grew darker.
He strode over to Belinda, his face stern as he deleted all the photos and backups right before her eyes. Then, he transferred the money into her ount.
As Kristopher pocketed his phone, he gave Fred a dismissive look.
Clearly, Fred was trying too hard to seem grown-up. Yet, the vibrancy and vigor of youth were palpable in him.
Kristopher sneered. ¡°If you¡¯re looking for a partner in your schemes, find someone your own size.¡±
Did Belinda think she could intimidate Kristopher with this green young man?
¡°No acting.¡±
Belinda raised an eyebrow and whispered in Kristopher¡¯s ear with a softer tone, ¡°Plus, he has nice abs. Better than yours.¡±
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That remark wiped the smug smile off Kristopher¡¯s face instantly.
His face flushed with anger. ¡°You¡¯re not that superficial!¡±
Choosing him three years ago, despite his looks, had proven she wasn¡¯t merely focused on appearances.
¡°Sorry, I¡¯ve always been this superficial.¡±
Belinda¡¯s brow arched again. ¡°Do you really think I would have married you if it weren¡¯t for your face?¡±
She inhaled deeply. ¡°Now that the photos are gone and the money¡¯s been transferred, we¡¯ll leave you be.¡±
¡°Mr. Cox, make sure you remove all the online news about me, and remember, we need to be at the court within three days to sign the divorce papers.¡±
After speaking, Belinda turned around and, mimicking Cathy¡¯s earlier gesture, took hold of Fred¡¯s arm. ¡°Fred, let¡¯s go.¡±
Fred shed a smile as he followed her. ¡°Belinda, now that we¡¯ve settled the bet, are you going to treat me to a nice meal?¡±
¡°Of course.¡±
Belinda clung to his arm, her smile bright. ¡°What do you feel like eating? I can afford it¡¡±
Kristopher watched them walk away, his hands balled into fists at his sides, a surge of irritation rising within him.
He had hoped for peace after Belinda didn¡¯t show up at the court, assuming she had deliberately chosen not to finalize the divorce. Yet, Belinda continued to unt her interactions with other men right in front of him. Chapters first released on Find¡ïNovel
Did she think Kristopher was oblivious?
She was openly provoking him, unting her disregard right to his face!
This was beyond making a scene. She had crossed the line this time!
¡°Kristopher.¡±
Catching him staring vacantly as Belinda walked away, Cathy instinctively took his hand, her eyes brimming with tears. ¡°Have I caused more trouble for you?¡±
She bit her lip. ¡°Ever since I came back to the country, it feels like all I bring is trouble. I even yed a part in your decision to divorce Miss Nelson¡ You don¡¯t me me, do you?¡±
Kristopher furrowed his brows and tightened his grip on her hand reassuringly. ¡°It¡¯s no trouble. If she¡¯s set on the divorce, I see no reason to hold on.¡±
After all, if they were to part ways, he was certain he wouldn¡¯t be the one left with regrets.
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Chapter 150
?Chapter 150:
After leaving the hospital, Belinda invited Fred to a nearby restaurant.
As they settled into their seats, Belinda handed Fred his phone with a grateful smile. ¡°Thanks for earlier. Without your help, those people wouldn¡¯t have cleared out so quickly, and I¡¯d still be unaware of the negative news spreading online.¡±
Belinda¡¯s phone had been broken, so she hadn¡¯t been able to catch up on the news or trending topics. Without Fred¡¯s intervention, she would have remained oblivious.
¡°Why are you thanking me?¡± Fred asked, epting his phone. ¡°I wondered why you hadn¡¯t replied to my messages. It makes sense now. Your phone was broken.¡±
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed in surprise. ¡°You sent me messages?¡±
¡°Yeah,¡± Fred replied with a shrug. ¡°I saw when Kristopher brought you into the hospital. He looked quite furious. I was really worried, so I sent a few messages, but got no response.¡±
He sighed, his expression a mix of concern and sadness, much like a dejected puppy. ¡°I thought maybe you didn¡¯t want to talk to me anymore, so I stopped texting. Later, when I saw themotion they caused on the second floor that got you involved¡¡±
Fred trailed off, taking a thoughtful sip of his coffee. ¡°And your ex-husband¡ Miss Miller left him when he was down and out. Now that he¡¯s sessful again, she reappears. Why doesn¡¯t he resent her? Instead, he¡¯s leaving you to go back to her?¡±
Fred¡¯s confusion was evident. He couldn¡¯t make sense of it.
Belinda gently sipped her coffee, her words thoughtful. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s just favoritism. He tolerates everything about her because he loves her.¡±
Previously, Belinda had believed that Kristopher was detached from emotions and love, always maintaining a lukewarm demeanor toward her. However, everything changed when Cathy returned to the country. It dawned on Belinda that Kristopher wasn¡¯t devoid of emotional depth or the capacity to show preference. He simply didn¡¯t love her. ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find¡¤novel
¡°Belinda¡¡±
Fred looked up, his expression one of sheer surprise. ¡°Aren¡¯t you sad?¡±
¡°It¡¯s been a long while since I felt sad,¡± she replied quietly.
Belinda replied, lifting her cup and gently blowing on the coffee to cool it. ¡°Life is full of pursuits. Dwelling on a failed rtionship and marriage would just be a waste of time and ultimately meaningless.¡± She was running out of time, after all.
Belinda lowered her gaze and took a serious sip of her coffee, grimacing slightly. ¡°Terrible coffee.¡±
Across the table, Fred observed her furrowed brows and the softness of her features, feeling a mix of wonder and infatuation.
Despite her frail and pale appearance, there was an undeniable maturity and intellect about her, something he foundcking in women his own age.
Her profound insights on love and marriage only added to this allure.
Fred¡¯s heart seemed to skip a beat.
After they had eaten, Belinda headed to the cellphone mall in the southern district of the city.
This ce, though grubby and chaotic, was lined with numerous cellphone repair shops and skilled technicians who specialized in reviving old phones.
Fred had sses that afternoon, so he could only stay with her for just over an hour before he had to leave.
Belinda roamed the southern district alone all afternoon but failed to find a technician who could fix her phone.
As evening draped the city in shadows, Belinda faced the inevitable.
The phone Joyce had given her was beyond repair.
It felt like a silent acknowledgment that Joyce would never return, never again wrap her in an embrace andugh together happily.
Eventually, Belinda stumbled upon an old shop, purchased the same model of phone, picked up a random spare, and hailed a taxi home. However, the moment she stepped out of the taxi, a dark figure charged straight at her.
The man seized Belinda by the chin and mmed her against the wall. The impact with the wall sent a sharp pain through Belinda¡¯s back. Grimacing in pain, she managed to gasp out, ¡°Kristopher, what the hell are you doing?¡±
¡°You don¡¯t understand what I¡¯m doing?¡± Kristopher retorted, his grip tightening on her chin, his voice gritty as if grinding from between his clenched teeth. ¡°I think you¡¯re the one whose actions are beyond understanding! Didn¡¯t we settle this at the hospital? I¡¯m handling the online news, so you shouldn¡¯t have to worry. But what did you do after all that?¡±
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Chapter 151
?Chapter 151:
Belinda was trapped against the wall, unable to escape. Confusing emotions swelled in her chest; her stomach twisted and her head spun with dizziness. Desperately, she tried to pull away from the grip on her chin. ¡°Then tell me, what did I do wrong?¡±
She had spent the entire afternoon roaming the old district in the southern part of the city, searching for a phone repair shop to fix her broken phone. Seeing that she still denied it, Kristopher¡¯s fury deepened. He flung his phone at Belinda. ¡°Look for yourself!¡±
The phone hurtled through the air and struck her directly on the nose. A sharp pain shot through her, and she instinctively clutched her face, bending over. Kristopher froze, stunned by what he¡¯d done. In his emotional state, he hadn¡¯t intended for the phone to hit her. He reached out to help¡ªbut then his gaze was drawn to the phone¡¯s screen on the ground. His hand paused in mid-air before he withdrew it. For original chapters go to find~novel
Belinda remained hunched on the pavement, cradling her bruised nose. After a few moments, rity returned, and her eyes fell on her illuminated phone lying nearby. The screen disyed a ring red image that left her utterly shocked: their marriage certificate.
Ignoring her throb?bing nose, she seized the phone for a closer look. The image had been uploaded by an ount named ¡°Heartbroken Girl.¡± Alongside the vivid photos of their marriage certificate, the ount had published a detailed expos¨¦. The articlembasted Cathy, the mistress, using her of exploiting her fame to belittle her adulterer¡¯s wife. The user hadn¡¯t stopped at revealing the certificate but had also meticulously outlined a timeline that chronicled Cathy¡¯s abandonment of Kristopher during his¡
Vegetative state three years earlier, highlighting Belinda¡¯s unwavering dedication throughout his ordeal. The post asserted that Belinda¡¯s marriage to Kristopher had been coerced by the powerful Cox family, exploiting their wealth. Once those photos and the expos¨¦ went online, they sparked immediate outrage.
Reactions varied, but everyone united in vilifying Cathy and Kristopher as contemptible¡ªCathy for her betrayal, Kristopher for hisplicity. The bacsh was relentless. Angryizens even flooded the Cox Group¡¯s official social media channels, forcing thepany to issue a statement that its executives¡¯ personal affairs were separate from corporate operations. Yet the public remained unconvinced.
By the end of the day, Cox Group¡¯s stock had plunged over ten points, wiping out an estimated fifteen billion in market value. Standing before her apartment¡¯s worn door, Belinda stared numbly at the news on her phone, her mind in turmoil. Earlier at the hospital, she had only threatened to expose their marriage certificate online to frighten Cathy.
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As Mrs. Cox for three years, Belinda understood the tangled web of affection and ambition within influential families. The Cox Group represented not only Kristopher¡¯s leadership but also Anthony¡¯s lifelong dedication. She could not, in good conscience, jeopardize countless livelihoods simply to obtain a divorce.
Thus she had quietly persuaded Kristopher toward separation, careful never to manipte public sentiment against him. But now¡
¡°This person knows everything about us¡ªevery detail, every date. They even have a photo of our marriage certificate.¡± Kristopher¡¯s eyes zed with fury as he confronted Belinda. ¡°This ount must be yours¡ªor at least one youmissioned with Fred¡¯s help. Cathy is now critically ill because of it, and Anthony has been hospitalized too. Is this the oue you intended, Belinda?¡±
With a lifeless expression, Belinda¡¯s hoarse voice broke the silence. ¡°How is Anthony?¡±
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Chapter 152
?Chapter 152:
Kristopher, rigid and silent, gave her nothing but a cold re. Clutching her stomach, a surge of pain caused by excitement coursed through her. Belinda confessed, ¡°I hadn¡¯t seen the news on the inte at all.¡±
Exhausted, she stood up, leaned against the wall, and faced him squarely. ¡°You¡¯ve erased the photos and wired five hundred million to my ount. There¡¯s no reason for me to lie.¡±
She paused, her eyes searching his, and continued, ¡°Anthony¡ Is he alright?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened, his face unreadable. Her gaze, filled with genuine concern, seemed to soften him slightly.
He turned abruptly, irritation clear in his movements, and opened the door. ¡°Hop in. I¡¯ll take you to him.¡±
Belinda, her lips pressed tightly together, followed him, her anxiety palpable.
As the car door shut with a loud thud, Kristophermanded the driver in an icy tone, ¡°Drive to Peace Hospital.¡±
¡°Peace Hospital?¡± Belinda echoed, confusion and shock in her voice. ¡°Anthony¡ I thought he was well. Why would he be at Peace Hospital?¡±
¡°His emotions got the better of him; he¡¯s developed high blood pressure,¡± Kristopher exined, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery outside the window.
He added dismissively, ¡°Cathy was also being treated there. It made sense to have him nearby for convenience.¡±
With a sneer, he remarked, ¡°Besides, if a healthy person like you can feign illness at Peace Hospital, why can¡¯t my grandfather receive real treatment there?¡±
Belinda bit her lip, choosing silence over words.
They arrived at Peace Hospital shortly after.
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As soon as Belinda stepped out of the car, she dashed toward the floor where Anthony was staying.
Ignoring the elevator, she raced up the stairs.
Kristopher watched her hurried figure ascend, his brow furrowed in thought.
Her deep care for Anthony was evident, so why had she made decisions that could only hurt him? Was she unaware that a sudden drop in Cox Group¡¯s stock would be immediately noticed by Anthony? Could she not see that the shock might be too much for him to handle? Content originallyes from find?novel
In the ward¡
¡°Anthony!¡±
The moment Belinda swung the door open, she dashed forward and embraced the elderly man propped against the headboard. ¡°Are you okay?¡±
Anthony, initially startled by the sudden hug, recognized her, and his expression softened. He smiled wearily, lifted his hand, and gently patted her shaking shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m fine. You know I¡¯m tough. What could possibly happen to me?¡±
The robustness in his voice only intensified Belinda¡¯s distress. She pulled back slightly, her eyes brimming with tears, and stammered, ¡°If you¡¯re really okay, why are you here¡?¡±
Anthony offered a reassuring smile and reached out to hold her hand. ¡°I just got worked up when I saw the news¡¡±
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Chapter 153
?Chapter 153:
He cast a gentle look at her and inquired, ¡°Have you seen the news on the Inte?¡±
As Belinda¡¯s lips parted to respond, a cold interruption came from Kristopher standing just behind her. ¡°She released the news. Of course, she¡¯s seen it.¡±
Wounded by his usation, Belinda pressed her lips tightly together, her voice trembling as she began, ¡°The news on the Inte¡¡±
¡°Don¡¯t take nonsense. Belinda didn¡¯t release it,¡± Anthony interjected firmly before she could continue. ¡°If Belinda had wanted to expose your affair with Cathy, she wouldn¡¯t have waited until now.¡±
¡°Grandpa, please don¡¯t say that. What do you mean by affair?¡± Kristopher asked, his brow furrowed in confusion.
¡°There¡¯s absolutely nothing going on between me and Cathy.¡± As he spoke, he turned his head to look at Belinda. His lips curled into a sneer as he continued, ¡°Moreover, it was Belinda who trapped me into marrying her while I was unconscious. She wedged herself right between us. What right does she have to publicize our marriage certificate and paint Cathy as the homewrecker?¡±
His voice was low and firm, conveying his conviction that it was indeed Belinda who had leaked those images online.
¡°How many times must I say it? I didn¡¯t do it,¡± Belinda retorted, her expression one of frustration.
Kristopher, leaning against the door with his arms crossed, fixed her with a steady gaze and challenged, ¡°You didn¡¯t? Then exin this to me¡ªwhere did the photo of our marriage certificatee from? Since our wedding day, you¡¯ve held onto that certificate. When you left the Cox mansion, you took it with you. Who else could possibly have it?¡±
Belinda remained silent, her frown deepening.
Indeed. She had always been the keeper of their marriage certificate. Initially, she preserved it out of love for the union. Now, she kept it with her because she thought it essential when she was going to have a divorce from Kristopher and didn¡¯t want to misce it. Yet, she had never photographed it!
¡°And look here,¡± Kristopher said, pulling out his phone to show her a photo. He pointed at the light gray sofa and pillow captured in the image and asserted, ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, this is your new apartment, isn¡¯t it?¡±
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Belinda nced at the photo, and confusion clouded her features. The setting was unmistakably her apartment. As this realization dawned on her, herplexion grew pale.
What on earth was happening? She had always kept the marriage certificate securely in her suitcase and never once took it out.
She hadn¡¯t even mentioned it to her best friend! Who could have done this?
The room fell silent.
After a moment, Anthony furrowed his brow and said, ¡°Even if Belinda possesses your marriage certificate and the background of the photo is indeed her apartment, it doesn¡¯t conclusively prove she¡¯s the one who took and released it.¡± Latest content published on find?novel
As he spoke, Anthony waved a hand towards Kristopher and suggested, ¡°You might as well take the time to thoroughly investigate the truth.¡±
With a weary frown, Kristopher replied, ¡°Grandpa, this woman¡¯s actions caused ourpany¡¯s stock to plummet. The shareholders are demanding answers. Why do you continue to defend her?¡±
Upon hearing this, Anthony¡¯s frown deepened, and his gaze grew stern. ¡°Perhaps your girlfriend orchestrated all this to turn you against Belinda.¡±
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Chapter 154
?Chapter 154:
Kristopher scowled, responding, ¡°That¡¯s impossible! Cathy would never do such a thing!¡±
¡°And neither would Belinda.¡± Anthony scoffed. ¡°You¡¯ve been married to her for three years. When has she ever acted against your interests? She was once so vibrant and cheerful, yet for your sake, she changed, suppressing her true self and enduring others¡¯ snide remarks. Has she everined? If she were selfish, she wouldn¡¯t have agreed to keep your marriage a secret for three years!¡±
Looking intently at Kristopher, Anthony continued, ¡°Besides, even if it was Belinda who leaked this, perhaps she did it because you and your girlfriend crossed the line! You owe her an apology!¡±
After Anthony¡¯s deration, a hush enveloped the ward. The anger etched on Anthony¡¯s face was evident, prompting Kristopher to frown deeply.
During this tumultuous period, Belinda repeatedly tested his patience. Without his agreement, she had terminated their pregnancy. She had made unfounded assumptions about his rtionship with Cathy. She had announced their impending divorce in a public setting and then failed to appear on the scheduled day of their separation. Moreover, she had been seen with multiple men.
Despite these provocations, he had shown forbearance time and again, even nning to celebrate her uing birthday. Yet, what had he received in return? She continually pushed his boundaries. Today, she had escted matters by posting their marriage certificate online along with a lengthy message aimed at destroying both Cathy and him.
How could Anthony possibly suggest that they owed her anything? What magic had Belinda worked on his Grandpa?
Though she faced away from him, Belinda could sense Kristopher¡¯s icy gaze on her back. Without seeing his face, she could feel the intensity of his anger. The silence lingered until she decided to break it.
¡°Anthony, Kristopher owes me nothing. Let¡¯s consider it a peaceful breakup.¡±
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Turning to face Kristopher, she spoke with conviction. ¡°Mr. Cox, although I¡¯m not sure who is responsible, I assure you it wasn¡¯t me. Nheless, since the photo of the marriage certificate originated from my home, I will seek out the truth.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened with a subtle frown. Her eyes met his, shining with an unmistakable rity. As he gazed into her eyes, the gloom in his heart slowly lifted. He took a deep breath and began after looking at her for a while.
¡°You¡¡± ?????? ???? fin?novel
His words were cut short by the sound of his ringing phone.
He nced at the caller ID and sighed in relief. ¡°Excuse me,¡± he said softly to those in the room, before turning to leave. His voice, gentle and reassuring, drifted back from the corridor. ¡°Cathy, how are things? Okay, don¡¯t cry. I¡¯ll be there soon¡¡±
In the quiet of the ward, Belinda listened to the diminishing sound of his voice and footsteps until they disappeared at the corridor¡¯s end.
¡°Belinda.¡±
After a lengthy silence, Anthony sighed and fixed his gaze on her.
¡°That photo¡ You didn¡¯t take it, did you?¡±
His question added a touch of sorrow to the room.
Anthony¡¯s uncertainty was evident, yet he had defended her staunchly against Kristopher¡¯s usations just moments before.
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Chapter 155
?Chapter 155:
Belinda shook her head, her voice filled with distress. ¡°I¡¯mpletely lost. My phone was out ofmission, and I spent the entire afternoon trying to repair it. Had I not bumped into Kristopher when I was returning home, I would have remained unaware of the turmoil online¡¡±
Anthony nodded, his belief in her unwavering. ¡°Then it must be someone who entered your apartment while you were away.¡± He ran his hand through his beard thoughtfully. ¡°Belinda, reflect on this: besides yourself, who has ess to your apartment?¡±
Turning to face her squarely, he queried, ¡°Could it possibly be Madisyn?¡±
After a brief pause, Belinda shook her head and said, ¡°It couldn¡¯t have been her.¡±
When she had miscarried and Madisyn had visited, Madisyn had suggested posting the ordeal online. But Belinda had stopped her at that moment.
Though Madisyn was quick-tempered, she had backed down once she realized the potential billion-dor losses it could cause to the Cox Group. Furthermore, based on her personality, if Madisyn ever wanted to photograph their marriage certificate, she would have informed Belinda and done it openly. Madisyn wouldn¡¯t secretly take photos when she wasn¡¯t home.
¡°If it wasn¡¯t Madisyn¡¡±
With a frown, Anthony inquired, ¡°Has anyone else had ess to your apartment recently while you weren¡¯t there?¡±
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed. She was about to dismiss the idea when a memory shed through her mind.
Darren.
That night, while she was unconscious and in the hospital, Darren had taken her apartment keys to check on her medication log. He had left her ce in disarray, to the extent that when Madisyn came to tidy up the next day, it had taken considerable effort.
Could it have been that Darren came across her marriage certificate while searching for her medication log and took photos of it?
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With this suspicion, Belinda activated her backup phone and opened the photo featured in the news.
As she suspected, the photo was taken in dim light with themps on. It meant that the photo was taken at night.
Belinda closed her eyes and sighed deeply. After a moment, she looked up at Anthony. ¡°I think I know who took the photo.¡±
¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re aware of it.¡±
Anthony sighed, looking up at her, saying, ¡°You just need to uncover the truth and exin things to Kristopher and everyone else. Perhaps whoever did this meant well.¡±
After saying that, Anthony fell silent for a while. He stared intently at her and continued, ¡°Moreover, when they made the post, they used not only Kristopher and Cathy but also me.¡±
He took out his phone, showing her the message that imed the Cox family had forced her into marriage. ¡°Look at what was written. How could I possibly force you?¡±
Seeing the look of dismay on Anthony¡¯s face, Belinda couldn¡¯t contain herughter.
Herughter brought a smile to Anthony¡¯s face as well.
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Chapter 156
?Chapter 156:
After a moment, Anthony sighed. ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve seen youugh like that.¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile faded, and she quicklyposed herself, murmuring, ¡°While I don¡¯t advocate for you to divorce Kristopher, my greatest wish is for your happiness.¡±
He looked at her deeply and said in a hoarse voice, ¡°You weren¡¯t there on the day you were supposed to ask for a divorce. I thought you had reconsidered.¡±
¡°I missed it because I was feeling unwell,¡± Belinda rified, shaking her head.
¡°So, you still wish to go through with the divorce?¡± Anthony asked. Belinda bit her lip and nodded.
Anthony ced a reassuring hand on her shoulder, saying earnestly, ¡°Even though you weren¡¯t involved¡ this could be the right moment. Do you want to use this chance to announce the divorce? After that, Kristopher will have no choice but to ept it.¡±
In the ward on the top floor of Peace Hospital, Cathy, her face as pale as the hospital sheets, propped herself against the headboard. She gazed at Kristopher, who was seated beside her. In a faint voice, she asked, ¡°Kristopher, have you found Miss Nelson?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he scanned Cathy¡¯s medical report. ¡°I¡¯ve found her,¡± he replied, his voice carrying a hint of detachment.
¡°Then, did she confess?¡± Cathy pressed, her voice tinged with anxiety, her lips quivering slightly.
¡°No,¡± Kristopher said, setting the medical report aside and giving her a piercing look. ¡°I thought you hated spicy food?¡±
Caught off guard, Cathy nodded stiffly. ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t like it.¡±
Kristopher narrowed his eyes, his demeanor turning icy as he handed her the document. ¡°Then why does this say you¡¯ve been hospitalized multiple times for eating spicy dishes?¡±
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Cathy¡¯s gaze fell to the document, her face draining of color. ???? ????s? ???????s ?? find?novel
After a moment¡¯s silence, she lifted her eyes, filled with a mix of defiance and vulnerability. ¡°Sometimes, curiosity gets the better of me¡¡±
¡°Don¡¯t you care about your health at all?¡± Kristopher¡¯s voice was sharp. ¡°You know you have stomach cancer. Are you trying to hasten your death?¡±
¡°I¡¯m sorry, Kristopher,¡± Cathy murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.
She bit her lip, tears brimming in her eyes as she confessed, ¡°I saw Miss Nelson enjoying spicy food so much, I thought I¡¯d give it a try¡¡± Despite her sorrowful expression, Cathy silently fumed.
What was with this woman? She had stomach cancer yet indulged in spicy food? That was just asking for trouble!
¡°Whypare with Belinda?¡± Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed in frustration. ¡°That woman¡¯s as robust as an ox, while you¡ you¡¯re battling cancer.¡±
He sighed deeply. ¡°You need to be in the hospital right now. I¡¯ll handle the online mess.¡±
At his words, Cathy steered the conversation back to the digital debacle. ¡°Kristopher, about that¡ What are you going to do with it?¡±
¡°Divorce,¡± he dered, his eyes closing as another sigh escaped him. Not only was he set on divorcing Belinda, but he also intended to pin the me on her. This, he believed, was the only way to turn things around, safeguard Cathy, and recover the losses suffered by the Cox Group.
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Chapter 157
?Chapter 157:
As he considered the n, his mood soured. This wasn¡¯t meant to unfold this way. Why did Belinda feelpelled to share those posts online?
¡°Divorce¡¡± Cathy sighed deeply and bowed her head.
Unseen by Kristopher, her eyes twinkled with smug satisfaction. Reflecting on Kristopher¡¯s recent behavior towards Belinda, she realized that had today¡¯s events not urred, their divorce might have dragged on indefinitely. She silently thanked the foolish person who snapped that photo!
Once Belinda left the hospital, she immediately dialed Darren¡¯s number, only to find his phone switched off.
¡°I can¡¯t reach Darren either,¡± she admitted.
At the hospital¡¯s entrance, Madisyn arrived to pick her up. ¡°What happened? Is he gone?¡±
¡°Perhaps he¡¯s avoiding dealing with his actions,¡± Belinda spected, looking at Madisyn intently. ¡°Do you know where he lives?¡±
After a brief pause, Madisyn exhaled and replied, ¡°He lives in your neighborhood. He even helped you find your current apartment.¡±
Belinda was caught off guard for a moment. ¡°My apartment¡ was suggested by Darren?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Madisyn admitted with a hint of guilt as she drove. ¡°When I was searching for a ce for you, Darren mentioned it might be good if you lived near him so you could support each other. Back then, I was still hoping to pair you two up, so I went along with it.¡±
Belinda massaged her temples, clearly frustrated. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me this before?¡± Had she not asked Madisyn about Darren earlier that day, she would have remained unaware of the unintended favor she owed to Darren.
¡°He didn¡¯t think it was necessary,¡± Madisyn exined, then swiftly shifted the topic. ¡°Remember when you lost the baby and came to Rozand to find me? I suggested that the best way to retaliate against Kristopher and Cathy was to make your marriage certificate public. You declined, not wanting to implicate the Cox family or Anthony. Yet, who would¡¯ve imagined that this morning, after Cathy¡¯s fans posted your video online and branded you a home wrecker, someone would step up to defend you in a way I couldn¡¯t?¡± Madisyn¡¯s tone was mixed with relief and a sense of vindication as she continued, ¡°It was so gratifying to see Cathy getting criticized online this afternoon!¡± At a red light, she looked over at Belinda. ¡°Who do you think was behind posting those photos and messages today?¡±
Belinda nced at her phone, flicking through her messages. Her eyebrows lifted slightly. ¡°You don¡¯t really think I did it, do you?¡±
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¡°Of course not,¡± Madisyn replied, shaking her head. ¡°Others might not see the real you, but I do. If you were really capable of something like this, you wouldn¡¯t have allowed Kristopher to drag out the divorce for so long. And you¡¯re too caring. Anthony has always been good to you. You wouldn¡¯t stand to see the Cox Group hurt because of your actions.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s insight was precise, yet a tear threatened to escape Belinda¡¯s eye. First, it was Anthony, and now it was Madisyn. Everyone close to her trusted her inherently, except Kristopher. The image of Kristopher¡¯s hands around her neck shed in her mind, and she exhaled a weary sigh. That man simply didn¡¯t trust her.
As these thoughts swirled in her head, Madisyn¡¯s red Maserati pulled up in front of Darren¡¯s apartment building.
Belinda swung the car door open and stepped out, her eyes immediately drawn to the familiar sight of her own rented apartment. It dawned on her just then how surprisingly close she was to Darren¡¯s ce.
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Chapter 158
?Chapter 158:
¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Madisyn pulled the car into a spot, got out, and sped Belinda¡¯s arm, guiding her towards the building.
As they reached Darren¡¯s floor, fortune smiled on them. The elevator doors slid open. There stood Darren, nked by two bulging trash bags. ¡°Belinda, Madisyn, what brings you here?¡± Darren¡¯s voice carried a mix of surprise and curiosity.
¡°Darren.¡± Belinda offered a small, knowing smile as she exited the elevator. She relieved him of the garbage bags and passed them to Madisyn. ¡°Take these down for him, will you? Darren and I need a moment.¡±
Rolling her eyes butplying, Madisyn took the bags with a huff and stepped back into the elevator.
Once the elevator doors had closed and the floor numbers began to flicker in descent, Belinda inhaled sharply, steeling herself.
She fixed Darren with a solemn gaze. ¡°Darren, have you checked the news online today?¡±
Darren seemed to have anticipated Belinda¡¯s question. He sighed and turned to unlock his apartment door. ¡°Come inside,¡± he invited.
Belinda hesitated momentarily before nodding. Discussing such a serious matter in the hallway felt indeed inappropriate.
Once inside, Darren¡¯s expression grew solemn. ¡°Belinda, I never imagined things would escte like this,¡± he confessed, gesturing for her to take a seat on the sofa. He then poured her a ss of water, his sigh barely audible.
Belinda raised an eyebrow. ¡°So, Darren, that photo¡ Did you really take it?¡±
Offering a rueful smile, Darren replied, ¡°You¡¯vee all this way. Denying it now wouldn¡¯t change anything, would it?¡± Checktest chapters at find?novel
He handed her the ss of water. ¡°I found the marriage certificate in your suitcasepartment when I was searching for your medication log that night.¡±
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Belinda took a sip of her water, her voice steady yet incredulous. ¡°So you snapped a photo of my marriage certificate without asking?¡±
Darren let out another sigh and took a seat opposite her. ¡°Belinda, I was defending you. Ever since Cathy came back, she and Kristopher have been parading their rtionship all over social media. Pretty much everyone in Nawrin thinks they¡¯re the perfect couple. That night you were in the hospital, I caught them together, lookingpletely smitten. It made me so mad that I just snapped a picture of your marriage certificate on impulse.¡± Darren¡¯s voice trailed off as he bowed his head, resembling a schoolboy confessing a blunder to his teacher. ¡°Honestly, I can¡¯t even recall what was going through my mind then. Maybe¡ I thought having that photo might enable me to defend you publicly someday.¡±
Belinda inhaled sharply. ¡°So, Darren, when you snapped that photo, you had decided to share it online if something like today¡¯s events unfolded?¡±
She showed him the image of the Cox Group¡¯s stock taking a hit because of the scandal. ¡°Darren, I appreciate your intentions. But you¡¯re part of a publicly tradedpany as well. Did you think about the repercussions for Cox Group? Thepany isn¡¯t just Kristopher¡¯s. It belongs to Anthony too, and it¡¯s the livelihood for numerous employees.¡±
¡°Belinda,¡± Darren cut in, his brow furrowed. ¡°Yes, I snapped that photo, but the posts online? I had no hand in those.¡± He paused, taking a deep breath. ¡°I wasn¡¯t involved with them at all.¡±
Belinda stared at him, her expression one of utter disbelief.
¡°Let me exin,¡± Darren continued, his voice tense as he nervously licked his lips and pulled up his phone¡¯s chat history. ¡°Today, while I was online, I stumbled upon a video showing you being cornered by Cathy and Kristopher at the hospital. The person who filmed it and the one who uploaded it online both added some harshments. The bacsh in thements was brutal. I did some digging into the ounts spreading the hate; they were all bots, the type usually boosting Cathy¡¯s profile online. It dawned on me that all the harshments directed at you today must have been orchestrated by Cathy¡¯s team. Feeling powerless against the tide of negativity, I¡¡±
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Chapter 159
?Chapter 159:
He handed his phone to Belinda, his voice trailing off. ¡°I reached out to Cathy¡¯s agency and sent them the photo as a warning, telling them to back off or I¡¯d expose it and let everyone know what Cathy has done. I never anticipated¡¡±
Taking the phone from Darren¡¯s hands, Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed as she peered into the chat box.
There was no doubt about it. Darren hadn¡¯t lied.
He had indeed sent the photographs to Cathy¡¯s studio and issued a clear warning: ¡°I¡¯ve discovered you¡¯re the mastermind behind the malicious online attacks against Belinda. I urge you to cease immediately, or I¡¯ll disclose these two photographs and reveal her as a mistress!¡±
Belinda pulled out her own phone topare the timing of Darren¡¯s message with the inmmatory post online.
The photos had been dispatched to Cathy¡¯s studio a full hour before the inte post appeared.
Thus, merely an hour after Darren¡¯s threat, Cathy¡¯s studio had created a new ount and used those two photos of a marriage certificate to create a scandal online.
¡°Belinda,¡± Darren called out, snapping her from her trance as she fixated on the chat box. Gazing at her with concern, he murmured softly, ¡°I know it was a rash decision. But I couldn¡¯t stand by while Cathy maligned you online¡ Her followers are fervent, and with your health already fragile, I feared the cyberbullying would harm you when you read those harshments¡ I worried it might be too much for you to handle. I never anticipated they would actually exploit the situation from your angle¡ It¡¯s senseless.¡±
Having discarded the trash, Madisyn returned and heard Darren¡¯s words, causing her brow to furrow. ¡°Cathy¡¯s studio just opened an ount and released proof of her being a mistress. Now she¡¯s being criticized online¡ Does her own studio hold a grudge against her or something?¡±
Belinda, browsing through the onlinements, couldn¡¯t help but sneer. ¡°She¡¯s trying to force Kristopher to choose between her and me.¡± She locked eyes with Madisyn, her gaze intense. ¡°She was confident that Kristopher would take her side, and that¡¯s why she went ahead with it.¡±
Madisyn stood there, shocked, as realization slowly dawned on her. ¡°Damn! Cathy wanted the public to scorn her first, so Kristopher would think you were behind it. She aimed to drive a wedge between you two, hoping he would side with her to defend her honor, then pin the me directly on you?¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? F?ndNovel
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¡°Exactly,¡± Belinda affirmed, nodding. ¡°Soon, I¡¯ll be cast as the conniving ex-wife that everyone hates, and she¡¯ll be the tragic, innocent victim who wins Kristopher¡¯s sympathy and falls into my trap.¡±
After making her point, Belinda gestured to the article published online. ¡°Three years ago, Anthony forced me into marrying Kristopher,¡± she exined. ¡°I always wondered why someone would post such a thing. But if Cathy¡¯s people orchestrated this, it all starts to make sense.¡± Cathy had never hidden her displeasure with Anthony. The marriage between Belinda and Kristopher three years prior had deeply wounded her.
That was why, this time, when the secrets came out, Cathy got Anthony involved. She wanted theizens to criticize him.
¡°What a vicious woman!¡± Madisyn eximed, balling his fists as he looked at Belinda with concern. ¡°Belinda, what should we do now? We can¡¯t just sit back and do nothing, right?¡±
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Chapter 160
?Chapter 160:
Belinda¡¯s smile was slight but determined. ¡°Of course not.¡± Gone was the woman who used to yield without a fight.
She took a leisurely sip of her tea and fixed her gaze on Darren. ¡°Darren, remember, you¡¯re the one who started this mess¡¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Darren cut her off before she could continue. ¡°Belinda, if you need any help, just let me know.¡±
He locked eyes with her and dered, ¡°I¡¯ll stand by you till the end.¡±
Darren¡¯s words were subtly ambiguous.
Madisyn cleared her throat and looked away. ¡°Hey, both of you, remember I¡¯m here. Maybe dial it back a little?¡±
Belinda caught the deep affection in Darren¡¯s gaze and her brow furrowed. ¡°Fluffy¡¯s been really clingytely.¡±
Darren¡¯s face clouded over at the mention of the cat.
He understood Belinda was gently chiding him for his previous mistake of losing her cat.
He dropped his eyes, avoiding her stare. ¡°A clingy cat¡ that¡¯s not necessarily a bad thing.¡±
¡°Yeah.¡± Belinda sighed heavily and stood. ¡°Well, Darren, I¡¯m heading out now. I¡¯ll get in touch if I need anything.¡±
She paused at the door, a warning in her tone. ¡°And please, no more rash decisions.¡±
Darren¡¯splexion turned pale, and he nodded vigorously. ¡°Understood.¡±
As they stepped out of Darren¡¯s apartment, Madisyn¡¯s phone rang. A colleague was calling, mentioning that everyone was gathered and waiting for her at dinner.
¡°Belinda, how about joining us?¡± Observing Belinda¡¯s subdued mood, Madisyn offered a gentle suggestion. ¡°You know, the models at our studio are absolutely stunning!¡±
Belinda dismissed the idea with a wave of her hand. ¡°No, thanks. These days, my face is too well-known online. It would just bring trouble being recognized in public.¡±
Madisyn shed a yful wink. ¡°Why not just wear a mask? I¡¯m quite the expert at helping people stay low-key. I¡¯ve got years of practice!¡±
As Belinda began to walk toward her apartment, she exined, ¡°If I show up, I¡¯ll just draw attention away from the festivities. I don¡¯t want to be the subject of gossip or spoil your event.¡±
She gave Madisyn a knowing look. ¡°You go on without me. I¡¯ll be fine getting home on my own.¡±
Madisyn sighed in resignation when Belinda insisted on going alone, since Darren¡¯s ce was close by in the same neighborhood. ¡°Alright then. But give me a call if you need anything, okay?¡±
With a farewell wave, Belinda watched Madisyn drive off. She then took a deep breath and started her leisurely walk home, the moonlight and streemps casting a serene glow around her.
Upon reaching her building¡¯s entrance, she encountered Kristopher once again.
He was there by his car, casually leaning against it while smoking. The cluster of cigarette butts around him suggested he had been waiting for a while.
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Chapter 161
?Chapter 161:
Belinda had no ns to acknowledge him.
She made her way toward the entrance, her expression unchanging. ¡°Belinda,¡± Kristopher¡¯s deep voice halted her just as her hand reached for the card to swipe in. ¡°Can we talk?¡±
She turned, raising an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s there to discuss? I already told you that I didn¡¯t post those things online,¡± she responded icily, her gaze indifferent.
In the past, Belinda¡¯s eyes would sparkle with admiration and joy when she looked at him.
Now, that sparkle was gone, reced by a look of detachment, as if he were aplete stranger. Kristopher noticed this striking transformation and felt a pang in his chest, his breath hitching.
It felt like he was losing grip on something precious, unable to prevent its escape.
He hesitated, trying to quell his difort. ¡°I¡¯m not here to use you. I just want to figure out a way to manage this mess online.¡±
Belinda¡¯s eyebrow arched again. ¡°And how do you suggest we do that?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed at Belinda¡¯s icy demeanor.
Belinda, relying on the identity of his wife, had grown increasingly haughty and disdainful.
For over twenty years, no one had dared speak to him with such audacity.
Containing his emotions, Kristopher sidestepped her and made for the door. ¡°This isn¡¯t the ce for discussion. Let¡¯s head upstairs.¡±
¡°Mr. Cox.¡±
Belinda¡¯s voice halted him just as he reached the door. She dashed forward, arms spread wide to block his path. ¡°Let¡¯s talk here. I¡¯m a single woman. It¡¯s inappropriate for you to enter my apartment.¡±
The mention of ¡°single¡± visibly irked Kristopher.
g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s hosts thetest chapters
His eyes narrowed as he shot back coldly, ¡°Are you single?¡±
¡°I will be soon.¡±
Belinda¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile as she met his gaze. ¡°You¡¯re here to talk divorce, aren¡¯t you, Kristopher?¡±
He stood motionless, staring at her in silence, his brow creased with a frown.
¡°You must want a divorce right away and have a backdated divorce agreement ready for us to sign. If the agreement dates from a month before Cathy returned from abroad, she won¡¯t bebeled a mistress by the public, will she?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened as he regarded her.
It appeared Belinda understood him far better than he had realized. He had not finished speaking, yet she had already pieced together his intentions.
From the look on Kristopher¡¯s face, Belinda could tell her assumptions were correct.
She lifted an eyebrow, her face a mask of indifference. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, there¡¯s no need to act as if we¡¯re having a discussion. You¡¯ve made up your mind already.¡±
Reaching out her hand, she demanded, ¡°Hand over the divorce papers you¡¯ve prepared.¡±
Kristopher stared at her extended, pale hand, his expression shifting to one of shock as his face drained of color. ¡°The divorce agreement¡ I¡¯ll have Marc deliver it to youter.¡± Content originallyes from find?novel
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Chapter 162
?Chapter 162:
Belinda¡¯s eyebrow arched higher. ¡°Isn¡¯t that why you¡¯re here? To deliver the divorce papers?¡±
He had waited until such ate hour, yet now he seemed hesitant to require her signature on the so-called divorce papers.
¡°Belinda,¡± he began, after a heavy sigh, his voiceden with fatigue and guilt, ¡°this divorce is just a strategic move. The scandal that blew up online won¡¯t settle down quickly.¡±
He fixed a serious gaze on her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Once this all blows over and the public calms down¡ we will get back together¡¡±
Belinda cut him off, her tone sharp. ¡°What are you implying? That you n to remarry meter?¡±
Kristopher said nothing in response, his silence and demeanor saying enough.
Seeing him like this, Belinda felt a pang of sadness.
She had been striving to sever ties with Kristopher and finalize their divorce for good.
She had thought he at least understood her resolve and feelings.
Yet, to her astonishment¡
Even now, he still believed she had mentioned divorce merely as an emotional outburst.
Suddenly, Belinda felt utterly foolish.
She had cherished him for so many years, offering him her very best.
Yet he had never grasped her true feelings.
Perhaps he never cared to. Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n Find1Novel
With this realization, Belinda inhaled deeply and dered, ¡°We can discuss remarriage once we¡¯re actually divorced.¡±
At this moment, she found even the thought of exining herself to him pointless.
¡°Whether it¡¯s the divorce papers or any other procedures, I¡¯ll cooperate. Mr. Cox, it¡¯s time for you to leave.¡±
With those words, Belinda brushed past Kristopher and marched through the door without sparing him a nce.
Frozen in ce, Kristopher watched her retreat, a wave of unexined mncholy washing over him.
After a moment, he scowled and dialed a number. ¡°Is there a party tonight?¡±
The man on the other end chuckled. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Got riled up by today¡¯s news online? nning to drown your troubles in alcohol? I¡¯ve been telling you, Belinda¡¯s no saint! Why keep defending her innocence? Looks like you¡¯re finally seeing her true colors, huh?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s friends often defamed Belinda in his presence. In the past, suchments hadn¡¯t really affected him. Now, however, they seemed especially irritating. Kristopher scowled, making an uncharacteristic effort to defend Belinda. ¡°Maybe she really had nothing to do with what¡¯s being said online.¡±
Elliott, on the other end of the phone, paused before bursting intoughter. ¡°Kristopher,e on, is your grandfather around right now?¡± Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened, and he was about to retort when Elliott sighed heavily. ¡°Listen, you should use this as a chance to divorce Belinda quickly. See how she¡¯s manipted your grandfather! This woman doesn¡¯t have any real talent; she just knows how to charm the elderly to win them over. It¡¯s shameful!¡±
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Chapter 163
?Chapter 163:
Kristopher¡¯s grip on the phone tightened, his knuckles turning pale. Elliott was known for his directness, always saying exactly what he thought. Kristopher once valued Elliott¡¯s bluntness, but now it seemed careless. His annoyance grew, and he suddenly lost any desire to go out for drinks with Elliott. In frustration, he ended the call and his gaze drifted to Belinda¡¯s apartment.
The lights were on, and through the light curtains, he could see her silhouette ying with a cat. Kristopher¡¯s irritation deepened. He had just suggested divorce, and she had shown no signs of sadness or distress. Instead, she had simply gone home to y with her cat. It appeared¡ she truly didn¡¯t care about him or their marriage any longer.
Watching her shadow through the curtains, Kristopher felt more conflicted than ever. It was absurd. He was actually feeling nervous about the prospect of divorcing Belinda. Kristopher remained seated outside Belinda¡¯s apartment until the early hours, refusing to leave even after all her lights had been turned off.
A phone call from Cathy eventually broke his stubbornness. Cathy¡¯s voice wasced with tears. ¡°Kristopher, I had a terrible dream¡ I dreamed of the day Joyce was injured and saw her covered in blood, urging me to keep living¡¡±
She cried. ¡°Joyce gave up so much to save me and ended up in aa. It¡¯s only been four years since that tragic day, and now I¡¯m facing a terminal diagnosis¡ The weight of her sacrifice overwhelms me¡¡± As Cathy spoke of her sister Joyce, Kristopher sighed deeply. ¡°Cathy, hold on. I¡¯ming to you.¡±
Five years ago, when Kristopher had first taken over the Cox Group, his intense drive had garnered thepany significant gains and opportunities, but it had also attracted numerous enemies. An assassination attempt by poisoning at sea left him injured. He jumped overboard to flee and was found on the shore, barely clinging to life. Cathy and her sister Joyce were the ones who rescued him.
Back then, Kristopher was poisoned and had temporarily lost his sight. Cathy, deeply shaken by the incident, lost her voice. She devoted over two months to his meticulous care, saving him from near death. Without Cathy¡¯s dedicated efforts back then, Kristopher wouldn¡¯t be here today. He recognized a lifelong debt of gratitude towards Cathy, one he could never fully repay.
Upon hearing Kristopher¡¯s promise toe, Cathy pressed her lips together and whispered, ¡°Okay, Kristopher. I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±
After ending the call, Cathy looked at a picture of Kristopher standing outside Belinda¡¯s apartment, her eyes briefly shing with spite. What was it about Belinda that made her so special? Why did both Joyce and Kristopher hold her in such high regard?
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¡°Belinda, bad news!¡±
The next morning, just as Belinda was stirring awake, a message from Madisyn popped up. Madisyn wasted no time and sent a link. ¡°Check this out! They¡¯re doing everything to clean up Cathy¡¯s image as the other woman.¡± ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? FindN()vel
Groggily rubbing her eyes and stifling a yawn, Belinda tapped the link. The moment the webpage loaded, she was instantly alert. The link revealed a photo of an abortion record¡ªher own, from a past miscarriage.
The expos¨¦ carried a scornful caption: ¡°Here lies the abortion record of Miss Nelson, who only yesterday unted a marriage certificate. Her miscarriage date aligns suspiciously with Miss Miller¡¯s return to the country. One might conjecture she chose to terminate her pregnancy and, in spite, drove Mr. Cox into the arms of Miss Miller. Yet Miss Nelson has been married to Mr. Cox for three years. What motive would she have to abandon a long-awaited child? In circles of such wealth, offspring are treasures. Why would Miss Nelson discard her passport to prestige and influence?¡±
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Chapter 164
?Chapter 164:
Thements exploded beneath the post, most viciously criticizing Belinda. Somementers even posted photos of her dancing on stage at a bar not long ago.
¡°She was totally enjoying herself at the bar. Doesn¡¯t look like someone who just had a miscarriage. Could this abortion record be fabricated?¡±
¡°Absolutely disgusting! This woman faked an abortion for sympathy, then went off to dance with men¡¡±
¡°Well¡ it really seems like she uploaded that marriage certificate just to extort money from Mr. Cox and Miss Miller!¡±
¡°Mr. Cox ought to divorce her immediately. This woman is disgraceful!¡±
Propped against her headboard, Belinda scrolled through the online vitriol, her heart pounding as she tried to steady her breathing.
Belinda stayed serene, untouched by the turmoil. Perhaps it was because she was close to death, and these matters seemed trivial now. Rather than feeling anger, she found the situation mildly amusing.
¡°Belinda, if this abortion record wasn¡¯t inadvertently released by someone in the medical field, then it must have been someone who knew the exact date of your miscarriage,¡± Madisyn voiced her concerns through two urgent voice messages. ¡°You¡¯re always so reluctant to bother anyone. I only learned about your miscarriage the night you called me. Who else knew the exact date? If it turns out no one else did, I¡¯ll assist you in suing the hospital for viting your privacy!¡±
Belinda exhaled deeply, her tone devoid of urgency. ¡°No need. The day I miscarried, Kristopher was at the hospital with Cathy. They saw me there.¡±
After sending the message, silence hung in the air until Madisyn responded with an immediate phone call.
Furyced Madisyn¡¯s voice as she spoke. ¡°Kristopher is beyond despicable! He was oblivious to his own wife¡¯s miscarriage, yet he cared for the mistress so much that he even apanied her to the hospital! Has he be Cathy¡¯spdog?¡±
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Belinda activated the speakerphone, cradled Fluffy in her arms, and began soothing the cat¡¯s fur, absorbing Madisyn¡¯s heated words without interruption.
As Madisyn¡¯s anger subsided, Belinda offered a gentle reassurance with a smile. ¡°Madisyn, let¡¯s not waste our anger on someone so undeserving.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s voice cracked, her emotions raw. ¡°Belinda, why does it seem like you¡¯re not even upset?¡±
¡°I don¡¯t care anymore, so I won¡¯t be upset,¡± Belinda replied calmly, continuing to stroke Fluffy¡¯s silky fur. ¡°I¡¯m just a regr person. Regardless of how harsh the online bacsh gets, it¡¯ll fade within days. I¡¯m not like Cathy. I don¡¯t thrive on public scrutiny.¡± Her smile was tender yet sad. ¡°If they¡¯re not interested in a peaceful resolution, I¡¯m prepared to confront them head-on.¡±
After all, her time was limited; she had less than three months remaining. Unlike Kristopher and Cathy, she had no lingering worries or prospects. She was free to act without restraint.
Public sentiment online was reaching a boiling point.
Initially, theizens had rallied behind Belinda, hurling insults at Cathy and Kristopher. But as the tides turned, they began slinging mud at Belinda while sympathizing with Cathy.
¡°Fred, interested in picking up a new part-time gig?¡± ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? F?ndNovel
In the Nawrin University dormitory, Fred had just returned from a shower when his roommate approached him, giving him a pat on the shoulder. ¡°Remember how you were looking for a decent part-time job not long ago? Well, I¡¯ve found just the thing!¡±
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Chapter 165
?Chapter 165:
Drying his hair with a towel, Fred shot his roommate a questioning look. ¡°What kind of job? Delivering packages?¡±
¡°Nope!¡± his roommate retorted with an eye roll, handing over his phone. ¡°It¡¯s about postingments online. I startedst night. It¡¯s pretty easy. Just copy and pastements from our group chat onto relevant news articles. If someone responds, just shoot back a simple reply to make the owner of the ount seem like a real person.¡±
Taking the phone, Fred frowned. He was about to respond when his gazended on an abortion report disyed on the screen. Below the document, a startling line caught his eye.
¡°The abortion took ce on the same day Kristopher went to the airport to pick up Cathy from her international trip. I heard she went to the hospital alone for that surgery, and Mr. Cox wasn¡¯t there with her. Maybe the child wasn¡¯t Mr. Cox¡¯s, so she decided to abort it herself.¡±
As Fred read those words, the image of Belinda¡¯s pale face shed through his mind. She was undeniably beautiful, always wearing a soft yet resolute smile. It was difficult for him to picture her entangled in such an ordeal.
¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±
Noticing Fred lost in thought, his roommate waved a hand in front of his face and asked, ¡°You in or out? If you¡¯re not up for it, I¡¯ll find someone else.¡±
Snapping back to reality, Fred handed the phone back with a grin and grabbed his own, idly scrolling through messages. ¡°Any specific requirements for this gig?¡±
His roommate, eager now that Fred showed interest, quickly shook his head. ¡°None at all. I¡¯ll just add you to the group chat. You just have to post and reply along with the rest of us.¡±
As he spoke, he let out a sigh. ¡°Honestly, I don¡¯t see this side hustlesting too long. Once Mr. Cox makes up with his girlfriend, he¡¯ll probably stop paying us to stir the pot!¡±
Fred raised an eyebrow and kept typing, chuckling. ¡°It¡¯s just a side job. Why worry about the details?¡±
New content live at g?ln¦Òv????s
¡°I just do, okay?¡±
His roommate slumped into a pout and said, ¡°I¡¯ve been bashing Belinda online since morning. Now, I¡¯m actually starting to feel sorry for her. It¡¯s not unusual for wealthy folks to have affairs. She should¡¯ve just ignored it. Why did she go public with their marriage certificate and use Cathy of being the other woman? Now she¡¯s being criticized over her abortion, with rumors swirling that Mr. Cox isn¡¯t the father of the supposed baby¡ It¡¯s all so tragic!¡±
Fred furrowed his brow and replied, ¡°Yes, you¡¯ve got a point.¡± Meanwhile, Belinda received a screenshot from Fred.
It showed he was part of a group chat named ¡°Profitable Part-time Job!¡± The chat was flooded with the same vilements Belinda had seen online. The group¡¯s organizer posted a message, ¡°Mr. Cox is upping the ante, paying more for viciousments. Keep recruiting, and feel free to craft your own. The more devastated Miss Nelson is, the better. I¡¯ll update Mr. Cox and make sure we¡¯repensated generously!¡±
After forwarding a few more screenshots, Fred texted Belinda, ¡°Belinda, I¡¯m going to be your inside man.¡±
Belinda was slightly taken aback.
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Chapter 166
?Chapter 166:
She quickly texted Fred, ¡°You¡¯ve taken on such a task?¡±
Fred sent back a smiley face emoji, responding, ¡°Just a broke college kid, ready to take any gig that pays.¡±
Belinda read his words and pressed her lips together in a silent nod of understanding.
Five years earlier, when she herself was a student, she¡¯d been just like Fred ¡ª eager to snatch up any paying gig. During her stint as a waitress, she had even rescued Joyce from a near assault. That incident had bonded them tightly, closer than family. They had once made a bet; when Joyce lost, she cheerfully called Belinda her ¡°sister¡± and joined her in the hustle of part-time work.
Lost in these memories, Belinda felt a deep pang of nostalgia. She remembered her days of scraping by.
After a moment, she took a deep breath and typed out another message to Fred. ¡°Will this undercover job jeopardize your chances for future gigs? If there¡¯s any risk, don¡¯t worry about it. I can manage on my own.¡±
After receiving her message, Fred quickly replied, his voice tinged with anxiety. He left a voice message. ¡°Belinda, you¡¯re overthinking this. I don¡¯t usually handle these kinds of jobs. But there¡¯s a big payout involved, and they needed a lot of people, so I jumped in. I do a ton of different gigs; this is just one more on the list.¡±
Upon hearing this, Belinda¡¯s worries eased. With a smile, she replied with a voice message of her own, ¡°Okay, then help me collect as much information as you can. When it¡¯s all wrapped up, dinner¡¯s on me.¡±
Back in his dorm, Fred listened as his roommate rambled about how to troll people online, headphones in to catch every word from Belinda. She sounded much moreposed than he¡¯d expected, her voice still soft and soothing.
It seemed the swirling online rumors hadn¡¯t shaken her at all. Imagining her calm, graceful demeanor, a smile unwittingly crept over Fred¡¯s face as he began to type his response. ¡°Deal, I¡¯m looking forward to that dinner!¡±
¡°Who¡¯s got you grinning like that?¡± his roommate teased, nudging him yfully. ¡°So, you¡¯ve got yourself a girlfriend now?¡±
Fred looked up, a bit startled, realizing he¡¯d been smiling to himself. He nced at his reflection in the mirror, a surprising surge of happiness welling up inside him. ¡°Not a girlfriend, not yet anyway.¡±
His roommate chuckled, teasing him further, ¡°I see why you¡¯ve been hunting for new part-time gigs. Trying to make an impression on someone special, huh?¡±
Switching gears, his roommate returned to the topic of their current part-time job. ¡°But really, the drama in these wealthy families is something else.¡± This text is hosted at find{n}ovel
He pointed to a wedding certificate photo disyed on theputer screen. ¡°This original wife is far more attractive than Cathy, don¡¯t you think? Why would she give up her status as ady of wealth to get mixed up with another man and end up pregnant with his child? Now her husband can unt his affairs, and she¡¯s the one getting dragged through the mud online¡¡±
Fred¡¯s frown deepened as he read the online posts, pausing to think before suppressing the urge to defend Belinda. He replied in a rxed manner, ¡°What we¡¯re seeing might not be the entire story. Perhaps the child was actually her husband¡¯s.¡±
¡°Really?¡± his roommate scoffed. ¡°If the kid was really her husband¡¯s, why would she consider terminating the pregnancy and allow her husband to cheat so tantly? That would paint Kristopher as a supreme scoundrel, wouldn¡¯t it?¡±
Fred nodded, his smile thin and humorless. ¡°Kristopher is, without a doubt, a scoundrel.¡±
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Chapter 167
?Chapter 167:
At Peace Hospital, Kristopher posed a gentle question as he sat beside the bed, cradling a bowl of freshly made oatmeal. ¡°What would you like to doter?¡± He blew softly on the spoonful of oatmeal, casting a tender look at Cathy, who was sitting up weakly against the headboard.
Pale and fragile, Cathy¡¯s voice was barely a whisper. ¡°I¡¯d like to go for a walk, breathe some fresh air.¡± She opened her mouth for a spoonful of oatmeal he offered.
The warmth made her wince slightly, her delicate eyebrowsing together. ¡°It¡¯s hot.¡±
¡°Is it?¡± Kristopher frowned, testing the oatmeal on the back of his hand. ¡°It¡¯s not hot.¡±
Cathy pouted yfully. ¡°But it feels hot in my mouth. Try it, and you¡¯ll see.¡±
Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she watched Kristopher. Realizing her yful intent, Kristopher gave a helpless smile and lightly tapped her forehead. ¡°Stop being silly.¡±
Their rtionship had evolved beyond that of a romantic couple. Given the recent wave of online criticism about their closeness, such yful exchanges, reminiscent of an indirect kiss, felt somewhat out of ce. Noticing Kristopher¡¯s reluctance to y along, Cathy¡¯s expression turned sour. ¡°I was only trying to cheer you up with a joke. Why so grim, Kristopher?¡±
With a heavy sigh, Kristopher bit back the words he wanted to say, mindful of her condition. He simply resumed his earlier task. ¡°Eat.¡±
¡°Kristopher!¡± Just then, the door flew open.
Allen rushed in, bringing a chill with him as he announced, ¡°There¡¯s been an incident!¡± He paused, seeing Kristopher spooning oatmeal into Cathy¡¯s mouth, and stopped dead.
Kristopher¡¯s brows knit together. ¡°What is it?¡±
New adventures await at g?ln¦Ò¦Í???s©q??o??
Clearly annoyed, Cathy scolded, ¡°Allen, really, how old are you? Must you always be so impulsive? Bursting in here so early, this had better be urgent!¡±
Regaining hisposure, Allen took a deep breath. ¡°Kristopher, your grandfather was watching the news online. He¡¯s had another heart attack. He¡¯s back in the ICU. The doctors knew you were in the hospital, so they sent me to find you right away.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze turned steely. ¡°What exactly happened?¡± Had Anthony not seen the news the day before, settling his nerves after the shock? Kristopher had even brought Belinda alongst night to soothe Anthony. Why?
¡°Kristopher, haven¡¯t you checked thetest news online?¡± Allen paused, then quickly retrieved his phone. ¡°Take a look!¡± N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on
Kristopher scowled and peered at the screen, his eyes widening in shock. ¡°How is this possible¡¡±
Someone had leaked Belinda¡¯s abortion records!
Kristopher had identally discovered the truth about her abortion. He had also looked into why Belinda had opted for the abortion. The child had been stillborn, leading Belinda to make the heart-wrenching choice to end the pregnancy. Kristopher was to me for this.
He had been unaware of her pregnancy in time and had failed to care for her adequately. His neglect was at fault. Instead of apologizing to her directly, he chose to ask Rosie to look after Belinda because of his pride. But Rosie had ignored his request.
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Chapter 168
?Chapter 168:
He had never questioned the paternity of the child. What was this scandal erupting online?
Cathy¡¯s voice carried a note of worry. ¡°Kristopher, what¡¯s wrong?¡± She had noticed Kristopher gazing vacantly at his phone, and she leaned in closer, as if she wanted to catch a glimpse of the screen. Snapping back to reality, Kristopher realized Cathy was almost embracing him. He instinctively stepped back, putting some space between them.
Although Cathy missed the chance to lean into his arms, she did see the headline on the screen. Her eyes widened, and she covered her mouth with her hands. ¡°Is this true? Miss Nelson¡¯s baby¡ it wasn¡¯t yours, Kristopher?¡±
She exhaled softly, sadnesscing her words. ¡°No wonder she wanted to end the pregnancy¡ Considering her kindness and gentleness, she must have felt truly cornered to make such a heartbreaking choice.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t believe everything you read online,¡± Kristopher interrupted sharply, his brow furrowed. He passed the phone back to Allen. ¡°How¡¯s my grandfather now?¡± Th?s chapter is updated by FindN0vel
Taking the phone, Allen¡¯s voice was rough with emotion. ¡°It¡¯s not looking good. He was already in the ICU when I went to fetch you.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened as he ced the bowl of oatmeal on the nearby table and stood up quickly. ¡°Cathy, I need to go check on my grandfather. The oatmeal has cooled down, and you can eat it.¡±
Without waiting for a response, he turned to leave with Allen.
¡°I¡¯lle with you, Kristopher,¡± Cathy said, her voice hesitant as she struggled to rise from the bed.
¡°Forget it,¡± Allen snapped, giving her a scornful nce. ¡°Kristopher can manage on his own. Bringing you would only slow us down, and this is urgent; we can¡¯t afford any dys.¡±
Cathy stopped, her expression turning pale. She clenched her teeth, her voice quivering. ¡°I can move faster. I care about Anthony too¡¡±
g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s takes you on a journey
¡°You shouldn¡¯te,¡± Allen cut her off sharply. ¡°Anthony¡¯s condition is fragile. Your presence might just make things worse.¡± He then looked at Kristopher. ¡°Let¡¯s go, now.¡±
Kristopher paused, casting a long, contemtive look at Cathy. ¡°Rest well. I¡¯ll return once my grandfather¡¯s condition stabilizes.¡±
Without awaiting her reply, he swiftly walked toward the elevator, his strides quick and decisive.
Cathy reclined on the bed again, her ears catching the faint sound of the elevator doors as they opened and closed. She picked up the bowl of oatmeal and stirred it gently, a sly grin curling her lips.
On the top floor, outside the ICU, Kristopher and Allen found Belinda pacing nervously, her gaze locked on the ¡°In Surgery¡± sign above the door.
Upon hearing their approach, she spun around. ¡°Allen, you¡¡± she started, but her voice trailed off when she noticed Kristopher. Her expression changed as her eyes met his, the sparkle dimming slightly. Kristopher caught the subtle shift.
After a brief pause, she turned back to Allen with a frown. ¡°Why is Anthony undergoing surgery again?¡±
¡°It¡¯s the online news,¡± Allen began, echoing his earlier exnation to Kristopher. He let out a heavy sigh. ¡°Anthony had hoped the incident yesterday would end without further troubles. Yet, this morning, he switched on hisputer and read about your miscarriage. The news was too much for him to bear¡¡±
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Chapter 169
?Chapter 169: Updates are released by F¦Énd£Îovel
Belinda nibbled on her lower lip, her hands curling into tight fists at her sides. ¡°It¡¯s my fault again¡¡± she murmured. With a heavy sigh, she turned her gaze back to the bold letters adorning the emergency room entrance, her voiceden with fatigue. ¡°Anthony has had so much trouble because of me in the past. And now, even though I¡¯m hardly a Cox anymore, I¡¯vended him in the ICU once more¡¡±
She bowed her head, fingers threading through her hair as she hunched over, overwhelmed by guilt.
The swirling rumors online hadn¡¯t really affected her. She could still find humor in them, plotting with Fred to expose those responsible and promising him a meal in return for his help.
It wasn¡¯t until Allen¡¯s call that she realized her profound impact on Anthony.
¡°You shouldn¡¯t me yourself,¡± Allen insisted, his tone soothing as he watched her despair. ¡°You¡¯re not the one spreading those lies online. None of this is your fault.¡±
He shot a pointed look at Kristopher. ¡°The ones who ought to feel guilty are the ones maligning you with those rumors.¡±
Still, Belinda kept her head down, her hands now covering her face. Kristopher leaned against the wall opposite her, his brow furrowed as he observed her intently.
From the moment he¡¯d stepped out of the elevator, she¡¯d nced his way just once before turning her attention elsewhere.
They hadn¡¯t exchanged a single word; she didn¡¯t even acknowledge his presence. To her, he was as good as a stranger.
Irritably, Kristopher adjusted his tie.
There had been a time when he¡¯d longed for Belinda to give him space, to stop monitoring his every move.
He¡¯d wanted her to concentrate on her own life rather than his. Now, however, as her gaze skipped over him without a hint of recognition, a sharp pang of tightness clutched his chest.
g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s is where your journey begins
Unable to bear the stifling quiet of the corridor any longer, he spoke up. ¡°Belinda,¡± he began, moving to sit next to her. ¡°I¡¯ve read the nonsense they¡¯re spreading online. All of it is just fabricated stories.¡±
Belinda looked up, her expression icy.
¡°Yes, it¡¯s utterly absurd.¡± Fred had shown her the payment records for his roommate¡¯s side job, all linked to a studio called Kristopher and Cathy.
The name echoed in her mind.
The mere mention of the names implied they were at the helm, their personal interests dictating operations.
It seemed usible that the disparaging onlinements and rumors had been instigated by them.
Now, Kristopher, one of the conspirators, had the nerve to confront her with these rumors directly!
Facing her detached and indifferent response, Kristopher¡¯s irritation mounted. His brow furrowed, and he spoke in a hushed tone, struggling to mask his frustration. ¡°On the day of your miscarriage, apart from the hospital staff, who else was aware of it?¡±
Belinda arched an eyebrow, her response sharp with biting sarcasm. ¡°And why is that information important to you?¡±
Her frosty, uninvolved demeanor only intensified Kristopher¡¯s annoyance.
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He persisted, his voice steadier, trying to contain his feelings. ¡°I¡¯ve done some digging. The hospital where you underwent the procedure is private and upholds stringent confidentiality protocols. It¡¯s highly unlikely that your medical records were leaked from their system.¡± His eyes bore into hers with piercing intensity. ¡°Tell me, who else knew about your miscarriage that day? I¡¯m here to help you track down whoever is spreading these rumors online.¡±
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed as she studied Kristopher, searching his face for any hint of his true thoughts.
Yet, deciphering him proved impossible.
Why had his duplicitous nature eluded her until now?
The receipts from Fred unmistakably listed payments from a business under Kristopher and Cathy¡¯s names. And here he was, feigning virtue and concern. For whose benefit was this performance?
A flicker of disdain in Belinda¡¯s gaze ignited something inexplicable in Kristopher.
He fought back the anger welling up inside him, striving to maintain a steady tone. ¡°Speak. Why are you just staring at me?¡±
Belinda¡¯s eyes narrowed, then a smirk yed across her lips. ¡°You asked who else knew about my miscarriage that day, beyond the hospital staff?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened further, his silence confirming her suspicion.
The online posts lined up with the date and location he had seen her at the hospital.
If not the hospital staff, then it was likely that someone close to her had revealed the truth about her miscarriage.
¡°Alright, I¡¯ll tell you,¡± Belinda said, her smile turning icy. ¡°The only people who knew were¡¡±
She lifted her gaze, now icy and scornful. ¡°Mr. Cox, you and your dear Miss Miller.¡±
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Her sneer deepened. ¡°So, will you be investigating yourself or Miss Miller?¡± The rightful source is f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
Kristopher was taken aback.
After a moment, his face drained of color and he averted his gaze, his voice dropping to an angry whisper. ¡°Belinda, this is noughing matter!¡±
¡°Do you think I am making a joke here?¡± The smile faded from Belinda¡¯s face. ¡°I told no one about the miscarriage. Even Madisyn only found out that evening when I visited her. That day, the only people I encountered at the hospital were you and Miss Miller. If you believe the hospital¡¯s systems are imprable, then¡¡±
She narrowed her eyes and pressed on, ¡°The issue must be with you or your Miss Miller.¡±
With a wry chuckle, she added, ¡°Mr. Cox, since you¡¯re so keen on assisting, whom will you question first? Yourself, or Miss Miller?¡±
For the first time, a fissure disrupted Kristopher¡¯s usuallyposed demeanor.
He shot her a furious look before storming away, muttering, ¡°Ridiculous!¡±
A heavy silence settled outside the emergency room.
Nearby, Allen observed the confrontation with a mix of shock and admiration for Belinda.
Despite the five years he had been away and having grown up with Kristopher, he had never witnessed him so utterly speechless.
He had heard plenty about the dynamics between Belinda and Kristopher. Most described Belinda as a steadfast ally, always ready to excuse Kristopher¡¯s missteps.
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Yet, what he witnessed now contradicted those rumors.
At that moment, the emergency room door swung open.
The three of them surged forward. ¡°Doctor, how is he?¡±
The doctor, mopping sweat from his forehead, exhaled deeply. ¡°He¡¯s stable for now. You¡¯re his family. It¡¯s crucial to be vignt. Avoid exposing him to severe shocks. He¡¯s not young anymore, and such stress is too much for him. You really should¡¡±
Before the doctor could continue, the elevator at the end of the hall dinged open.
¡°How¡¯s my grandpa?¡± Maggie burst out, her voice echoing down the corridor.
The doctor¡¯s expression soured at her loud entrance. ¡°Miss, please¡¡±
¡°Belinda!¡±
Maggie didn¡¯t wait for the doctor to intervene. Spotting Belinda next to Kristopher, fury ignited in her eyes.
She marched over and pped Belinda hard across the face. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find?novel
¡°You fucking bitch!¡±
Before Belinda could respond, Maggie¡¯s hand was already sweeping toward her face.
Instinctively, Belinda stepped back, yet it seemed inevitable that the p would connect.
Just as Maggie¡¯s hand neared, someone intercepted it. ¡°Maggie!¡± Kristopher¡¯s voice was sharp with rebuke. ¡°What are you doing?¡± he demanded.
In that moment, Allen moved swiftly to shield Belinda, positioning her behind him. ¡°Miss Cox!¡± he called out protectively.
Maggie, who had harbored feelings for Allen since childhood and had pursued him relentlessly five years earlier, was infuriated to see him defending Belinda.
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As she raised her hand again in anger, her brother caught her wrist, further fueling her rage. ¡°I¡¯ll kill her! I¡¯ve seen everything online! Her miscarriage was no ident. She wanted to terminate the pregnancy because that child wasn¡¯t yours!¡± she spat out the words, her anger palpable.
As she red at Kristopher, she challenged him, ¡°Kristopher, doesn¡¯t this enrage you? This bitch cheated on you!¡±
Kristopher, flustered but firm, countered, ¡°She¡ She didn¡¯t! Those are just rumors, and the baby was indeed mine!¡±
Maggie was left in shock.
Her anger surged again after a moment. ¡°Kristopher, how can you still defend her? Look at what she¡¯s done! If she really was pregnant with your child, why would she choose to abort it? Everyone knows she¡¯s so devoted to you that she barely respects herself. Why would she end the pregnancy?¡±
With those words, she whirled around, her gaze cutting through Allen, who stood before Belinda, and fixed Belinda with a piercing stare. ¡°You traitor, you betrayed my brother. I¡¯ll hire the topwyer in town, and you¡¯ll walk away with nothing!¡±
Her voice grew louder with each word she spat out.
¡°Mr. Cox!¡±
Suddenly, a nurse¡¯s urgent shout broke through from the resuscitation room. ¡°We need oxygen, now!¡±
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Belinda, initially poised to confront Maggie, lost all interest in arguing upon hearing the nurse. Fresh chapters posted on find(?)ovel
She dashed into the resuscitation room, calling out, ¡°Anthony!¡± As she entered, Allen instinctively looked towards the doctor, who gestured for him to proceed.
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed in annoyance as he red at Maggie, warning, ¡°If Grandpa suffers because of this, you¡¯re cut off from your allowance!¡±
He then quickly made his way into the resuscitation room.
Cradling her aching wrist, Maggie trailed after Kristopher, muttering bitterly, ¡°If something¡¯s wrong with Grandpa, me that witch. I¡¯ve done nothing wrong.¡±
Overhearing her, Kristopher halted and turned to shoot her an icy stare. Silenced by his re, Maggie mped her mouth shut.
Inside the emergency room, Anthony was visibly struggling to breathe, his face flushed and an oxygen mask over his nose and mouth.
The sight deeply pained Belinda.
She sped Anthony¡¯s hand, her voiceden with worry. ¡°Anthony, it¡¯s me, Belinda. I¡¯m here to see you.¡±
At the sound of her voice, Anthony¡¯s breathing steadied slightly.
He turned to look at her, his eyes clearing as they met hers.
Clutching her hand with one of his, he reached out to gently touch her face with the other. ¡°Belinda, I regret the hardships you¡¯ve faced since your marriage to Kristopher.¡±
Belinda¡¯s palm tingled from Anthony¡¯s tight grip.
She hadn¡¯t anticipated his first words after waking up would catch her so off guard.
Yet, on reflection, she could see why he might feel that way.
M?????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????????????.??????
Anthony probably thought Maggie had crossed a line.
With a sigh, Belinda softened her voice, aiming for a calming tone. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Anthony. Actually, I¡¡±
¡°What hardship has she ever faced?¡± Belinda¡¯s words were cut short by Maggie at the door. ¡°She owes Cathy and Kristopher an apology!¡±
Ignoring Kristopher¡¯s warning nce, Maggie marched into the room and dered, ¡°Grandpa, don¡¯t let her fool you. This woman betrayed Kristopher¡¡±
¡°Maggie!¡±
His patience wearing thin, Kristopher frowned deeply and snapped, ¡°Get out!¡±
Maggie¡¯s guilt flickered across her face at his shout.
However, she lifted her chin defiantly and countered, ¡°Am I not speaking the truth? Why should I get out?¡±
Pointing at Belinda, she continued, ¡°She¡¯s the one who should leave! I¡¯m his granddaughter, and Belinda is an outsider. Why should I have to go?¡±
Upon hearing these words, Anthony¡¯s face, already obscured by an oxygen mask, flushed a deeper shade of red.
He struggled for breath, his eyes zing with fury.
Despite the muffled quality of his voice through the mask, he mustered all his strength to bellow. ¡°Get out! I know Belinda better than anyone else does. She would never betray anyone. She¡¯s not that kind of person!¡±
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¡°And what kind of person is she, exactly?¡± Maggie retorted sharply. ¡°Lately, she¡¯s been surrounded by men. There¡¯s the guy from her university and some college student¡ She¡¯s nothing but a tramp!¡±
Maggie¡¯s usation caused Belinda to narrow her eyes almost reflexively.
If her memory served her right, she hadn¡¯t interacted with Maggie recently.
It made sense that Maggie knew Darren. They had once met at Anthony¡¯s birthday celebration.
However, she had never met Fred.
He was meant to be a stranger to her.
But then it clicked.
Maggie was Kristopher¡¯s sister and had always been fond of Cathy. Surely, one of them had mentioned Fred to her.
With this realization, Belinda inhaled sharply, fixing Maggie with a frosty gaze. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize you were so invested in my personal life.¡±
¡°Of course, I am,¡± Maggie retorted. ¡°I have to keep an eye on you to ensure you don¡¯t disgrace my brother¡¡±
¡°Since you¡¯re so concerned about me, could you tell me when I first met Darren? Or when I got to know that college student? The baby I lost recently was three months along. What do you think I was up to three and a half months ago, and where were those two men?¡±
These questions threw Maggie for a loop.
She stood there, shocked for a moment before retorting in frustration, ¡°How should I know? I can¡¯t read minds. How am I supposed to know which man you were seeing three and a half months ago? My only concern is for my brother!¡±
¡°Is that so?¡±
g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s??????? brings great stories
Belinda¡¯s reply was icy as she nced disdainfully at Kristopher. ¡°If you care about your brother so much, surely you know where he was and what he was doing three and a half months ago, right?¡± Content originallyes from Find1Novel
Maggie¡¯s face turned pale as she stumbled over her words.
¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Unyielding, Belinda tightened her grip on Anthony¡¯s hand and responded sharply, ¡°Then let me enlighten you. Three and a half months ago, Mr. Cox was away on a business trip on an ind. He fell ill with a cold and fever, and he called me. I braved a typhoon to take a ship to the ind and spent the entire week there nursing him back to health. In the rush of the emergency, I forgot to bring condoms, and that¡¯s how I ended up pregnant.¡±
She locked eyes with Maggie, her gaze icy and firm. ¡°How dare you use me of being unfaithful when you don¡¯t know the first thing about what happened? Do you want me to show you the ferry tickets and the receipts from the ind?¡±
Maggie¡¯splexion drained of color in an instant.
Observing her reaction, Anthony¡¯s temper began to cool. d in an oxygen mask, he snorted. ¡°I¡¯ve already said that Belinda isn¡¯t that sort of woman!¡±
Maggie bit her lip, her eyes darting involuntarily toward Allen.
Allen¡¯s gaze was icy, filled with disappointment.
Desperate not to appear weak in front of him, Maggie steeled herself and pressed on. ¡°Just because she wasn¡¯t caught with those two, it doesn¡¯t mean she wouldn¡¯t hook up with the driver or anyone else on the ind¡¡±
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¡°p!¡±
Appalled by her increasingly harsh words, Kristopher pped her sharply across the face, his voice stern. ¡°That¡¯s enough, Maggie! Belinda is your sister-inw. She¡¯s treated you well for the past three years. How can you talk about her like this? Apologize to Belinda, now!¡±
Maggie¡¯s eyes widened in shock, her hand flying to her swollen cheek as if she couldn¡¯t believe her brother had struck her.
Tears pooled in her eyes before spilling over, and she cried out in a broken voice. ¡°Kristopher, you hit me! You hit me for this bitch!¡±
¡°Apologize to her right now!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s voice was a sharpmand, his brow furrowed in disapproval.
¡°Why should I?¡± Maggie retorted through her sobs. ¡°Even if the child she aborted is yours, hasn¡¯t she cheated on you? Haven¡¯t you seen how she flirts with other men? She¡¯s far from innocent!¡±
With those words, she spun around, her re piercing Belinda. ¡°And she keeps dangling divorce over your head but never follows through. She just doesn¡¯t want to divorce. She wants to wedge herself between you and Cathy forever! Why should I apologize to someone like that?¡±
¡°Is that so?¡± Allen, who had remained silent until now, suddenly raised his eyebrows. ¡°Miss Cox, Belinda is legally your brother¡¯s wife!¡± He leaned casually against the door frame, arms crossed, a mocking smile ying on his lips. ¡°You mean awful wedded wife is a mistress?¡±
Maggie shot back, ¡°The true mistress is the one who isn¡¯t loved!¡±
Witnessing his sister¡¯s relentless behavior, Kristopher reached his limit. He grabbed his phone, dialed Marc¡¯s number, and said tersely, ¡°Come and take Maggie away.¡±
There was a brief silence on the other line before Marc responded, ¡°Understood.¡±
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Momentster, Marc appeared at the ward door, nked by two muscr men who promptly escorted Maggie out.
¡°Kristopher!¡± Maggie protested with a look of distress as she was carried away. ¡°What I said is true! She¡¯s the one between you and Cathy¡¡±
At that, Kristopher sighed heavily. He turned to Belinda, his expression apologetic. ¡°I¡¯m sorry on her behalf. She¡¯s young and foolish.¡±
Belinda, holding Anthony¡¯s hand, replied icily, ¡°She¡¯s a year older than me. Young and foolish?¡±
She didn¡¯t hide her disdain. ¡°I don¡¯t need your apology. Just keep your sister in check.¡±
She then arched an eyebrow at Kristopher. ¡°I¡¯ve cleaned up her messes more than once. I have proof. And since she wants to be an actress¡¡± Belinda¡¯s voice dropped to a menacing whisper. ¡°I wonder how she¡¯d feel if I made all her secrets public?¡±
A hint of surprise flickered across Kristopher¡¯s face as he stammered, ¡°You¡ You¡¯ve been helping Maggie?¡±
¡°Or what?¡±
Before Belinda could answer, Anthony¡¯s frown deepened. He removed the oxygen mask, his voice faint, yet his diction was clear. ¡°Don¡¯t you realize what kind of person your own sister is? Haven¡¯t you noticed? Since the day you woke up, she hasn¡¯t once troubled you with her personal dilemmas.¡±
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Anthony then scoffed. ¡°That¡¯s not because your sister has turned over a new leaf. It¡¯s because she knows she¡¯d be reprimanded if she approached you. So, she goes to Belinda instead. Ever wonder why Belinda suddenly makesrge withdrawals from your ount?¡±
Kristopher was dumbfounded. He turned his gaze from Anthony to Belinda, his eyes brimming with disbelief.
How could this be?
He had assumed Maggie no longer brought up personal issues since his recovery because she had grown more responsible. And he had believed that Belinda¡¯svish spending with the ck card he provided was due to her greed for wealth.
He had never suspected¡
For thest three years, Belinda had been the one dealing with the troubles, hadn¡¯t she?
¡°If that¡¯s truly the case, then Belinda deserves our sympathy.¡±
Leaning against the door with his arms crossed, Allen shook his head. ¡°Given how aggressively Maggie acted earlier, I assumed Belinda was on bad terms with her, almost like enemies. Yet, it seems Belinda has been the one cleaning up her messes all this time.¡± Checktest chapters at find~novel
He clicked his tongue in disapproval. ¡°Is Belinda just a fool for repeatedly solving problems for someone undeserving, or is Maggie simply ungrateful, forgetting the kindness she¡¯s received?¡±
Kristopher furrowed his brows. He fixed his gaze on Belinda. ¡°Step outside with me for a moment. I need to talk to you.¡±
Previously, Belinda would have immediately stopped whatever she was doing and followed him as soon as he spoke.
But this time, she remained seated, gripping Anthony¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°Mr. Cox.¡±
Her voice was frosty. ¡°Whatever you have to say, you can say it here.¡±
Kristopher, unustomed to such a chilly demeanor from her, paused, his eyes briefly ring with irritation. ¡°I¡¯m merely asking to discuss Maggie¡¯s situation. I¡¯m not going to do anything to you!¡±
After all, they were husband and wife. Why did she need to be so cold and defensive towards him?
¡°Since we¡¯re discussing Maggie¡¡±
Belinda offered a gentle smile, her gaze flitting between Anthony and Allen. ¡°There are no outsiders here. Let¡¯s keep it straightforward.¡± Although Allen wasn¡¯t part of the Cox family, and Belinda had known him for only a brief period, his reputation had preceded him. Allen had grown up alongside Kristopher and was equally close to Maggie.
In the past, not only had Maggie pursued Allen, but whenever Kristopher was overwhelmed and couldn¡¯t manage Maggie¡¯s issues, Allen was the one who stepped in.
Maggie knew Allen well enough to trust his discretion; there was no reason for him to step out.
Belinda¡¯s directness caused Kristopher¡¯s brow to crease in disapproval. This was a side of her he wasn¡¯t used to. She wouldn¡¯t have dared to contradict him like this before!
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¡°Just get to the point.¡± Read full story at fin?novel
Anthony nced at Kristopher, who appeared reluctant to continue, and scoffed. ¡°Come on, we¡¯re all family here. What¡¯s there to hide?¡±
Allen gave a small chuckle. ¡°Kristopher, need me to leave?¡±
With the conversation having reached this stage, it was difficult for Kristopher to push further.
¡°There¡¯s no need.¡±
After he finished speaking, he turned to Belinda. ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal, but I¡¯ve been wondering¡ Over the years, how many issues have you handled for Maggie and how much have you ended up spending?¡±
Belinda arched an eyebrow. ¡°Countless issues, so many I¡¯ve lost track. But if you want to know about the money, that I can answer.¡± She looked directly at Kristopher. ¡°The total on that ck card you gave me? That¡¯s exactly how much I¡¯ve spent on her.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s face registered shock. ¡°The card I gave you¡ You¡¯ve been using it for her expenses?¡±
¡°Can¡¯t I?¡± Belinda responded with a sneer. ¡°I was solving your sister¡¯s problems, and did you really expect me to use my own money? You know my story. Ie from a small vige, and my parents never looked out for me after they took me in. I don¡¯t have a lot of money.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression softened. ¡°That wasn¡¯t what I meant.¡±
For the past two years, Rosie and Maggie, the mother-daughter duo, had constantly told Kristopher how Belinda was squandering his money on luxury items and jewelry with his ck card.
He had always assumed that she was just trying to maintain appearances.
But now, faced with the truth, he was taken aback.
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¡°What exactly do you mean by that?¡±
Anthony¡¯s brow furrowed as he fixed a stern gaze on Kristopher. ¡°Belinda has already done more than enough for the Cox family. We owe her a great deal, and you¡¡±
¡°Mr. Cox.¡±
Before Anthony could finish, a nurse entered, lightly tapping on the doorframe. ¡°You¡¯re much better now. It¡¯s time to move you to a regr ward. We need this space for other patients.¡±
At the nurse¡¯s reminder, everyone in the room suddenly became aware that they were still upying the resuscitation area.
Apologizing to the nurse, Belinda, along with Allen and Kristopher, helped wheel Anthony out.
Once settled back in the ward, silence enveloped the room.
Anthony, propped against the headboard, gave Kristopher a cold, prating look that hinted at an unspoken challenge.
Allen broke the tension with a smile, turning to Belinda. ¡°Did you manage to eat anything this morning? I¡¯m about to grab some breakfast for Mr. Cox. Would you care to join me?¡±
Belinda nodded in agreement. ¡°Sure,¡± she replied.
The weight of the room¡¯s silence was bing too much for her.
¡°Wait!¡±
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Kristopher¡¯s voice cut through the quiet just as Allen and Belinda neared the door. His tone was icy. ¡°Allen, you stay here and talk with grandpa.¡±
He then stood and approached Belinda. ¡°I¡¯ll apany her.¡±
Allen was momentarily stunned, and his gaze involuntarily sought out Belinda. ¡°Belinda¡¡± he murmured.
Belinda, with a furrowed brow, nced toward Kristopher. After a moment¡¯s contemtion, she nodded decisively. ¡°Please stay here, Allen. I need to discuss something with him.¡±
Without waiting for a response, she walked briskly out of the hospital room.
Kristopher was quick to follow, matching her pace as they entered the elevator together.
As the doors slid shut, the confined space was filled with palpable tension. ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
Despite the elevator¡¯s generous size, Belinda felt an oppressive difort sharing the space with Kristopher. His presence seemed to saturate the air, making it feel heavy and thick.
However, the difort was short-lived as the doors soon opened again.
A family bustled in, including a pregnant woman in a wheelchair cradling a baby. The family filled the space, standing beside them.
Reacting almost instinctively, Kristopher turned to face Belinda, using his body to shield her from the encroaching crowd.
They stood face-to-face, mere inches apart.
From this proximity, Belinda could distinctly make out the contours of Kristopher¡¯s jawline, stirring a familiar flutter in her stomach.
He was her type.
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Despite the turmoil between them, his mere presence had a maic pull on her.
¡°Honey, I¡¯m sorry for all the pain you¡¯ve endured.¡±
In the elevator, the husband began to speak, his voice thick with gratitude. ¡°You can¡¯t imagine how anxious I was two days ago when I saw you emerge from the operating room. I was so worried. I med myself for all you had to endure.¡±
His wife, finding humor in his concern, replied, ¡°Even though giving birth was painful, I have no regrets. Your love means everything to me. I¡¯ve always wanted our child¡¡±
Their tender exchange brought smiles to the surrounding family members. ¡°You two have been together for three years and still, you¡¯re as affectionate as ever¡¡±
Nearby, Belinda¡¯s mood turned mncholy.
She and Kristopher had also been married for three years.
She saw other couples thriving in love and starting families, but for her and Kristopher, it was different¡
Their marriage was unraveling, and they had lost a child¡
Without thinking, Belinda raised her eyes to Kristopher.
He was gazing down at her, his eyes filled with aplex emotion she couldn¡¯t decipher.
Clearly, he too was moved by the family¡¯s happiness and remembered the child they had lost.
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The elevator doors opened on the first floor, and the family exited. Kristopher remained, still facing her in the same pose.
After a moment, his voice, rough with emotion, broke the silence. ¡°Belinda.¡±
He frowned, struggling with his words, then finally voiced the thought that had haunted him since the miscarriage. ¡°We can have another baby in the future.¡±
Belinda gazed at him, bewildered, unable to believe the words that had just escaped his lips. Could she have misunderstood? How could Kristopher say such a thing?
The shock in her eyes made him furrow his brow. Straightening up, Kristopher turned and exited the elevator. ¡°Forget I said anything.¡±
He had noticed the sorrow in her eyes earlier when the family discussed the baby. Her sadness had moved him, evoking sympathy for the child they had lost. Yet, the look of disbelief on her face quickly snapped him out of it. He had to be out of his mind to try andfort her with those words!
As the elevator doors began to close, Belinda snapped out of her daze and hurried after Kristopher. They walked side by side from the elevator to the hospital entrance, enveloped in silence. Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n find(?)ovel
Trailing behind him, Belinda observed the once captivating tall figure of the man before her, now with a trace of coldness in her expression. She began to piece together what Kristopher had implied back in the elevator. It was the family¡¯s conversation about the baby that had touched him. He had thought of the child they had lost and had wanted to offer the constions any caring husband would.
If he were a caring husband, it would be reasonable to say those words. But he had never shown concern for this baby. Even on the day of the miscarriage, he was with Cathy. What right did he have to speak those words to her?
After leaving the hospital, they made their way to a restaurant across the street and settled in. The waiter approached their table and handed the menu to Kristopher. Without thinking, Kristopher passed the menu to Belinda as he always did when they dined together.
Belinda, who was well-versed in his preferences, usually took care of the ordering. He simply enjoyed the meal and handled the bill. However, this time, Belinda didn¡¯t ept the menu. Her attention was fixed on her phone, her fingers swiftly navigating through messages from Madisyn and Fred. With a nonchnt tone, she ordered, ¡°A coffee and a sandwich for me, and two to go, please.¡±
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Kristopher, menu still in hand, paused mid-gesture. She was only ordering for herself? Puzzled and slightly annoyed, he asked, ¡°What about my order?¡±
Belinda nced up from her phone, rolled her eyes, and retorted, ¡°Why don¡¯t you order for yourself for once?¡±
As she tapped on a voice message, Fred¡¯s youthful, resonant voice filled the air. ¡°Belinda, I¡¯ve pulled off a big favor for you. How are you going to thank me?¡±
Smiling, Belinda pressed the record button to send a voice message. ¡°It really depends on what you¡¯re in the mood for, I¡¡±
¡°I¡¯ll have what she¡¯s having.¡±
Her words were abruptly cut off by Kristopher¡¯s voice, louder and more forceful than necessary. She furrowed her brows and shot him a re. He had to be doing this on purpose!
She had intended to delete the recording and start over for Fred. However, her finger slipped, and the message was sent by ident. She quickly retracted it and started typing a message to Fred.
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But before she could send it, a text from Fred popped up.
¡°Belinda, I got the message. Your ex-husband? Is he giving you trouble? Do you need my help?¡±
Belinda hesitated for a second, about to type a reply, when Kristopher, seated across from her, sneered. ¡°Let hime over.¡±
He lifted his head defiantly. ¡°Didn¡¯t he want you to take him out to eat? Just let hime and have a sandwich, and that¡¯s enough.¡±
Belinda recoiled and cast a dismissive nce at Kristopher. ¡°How dull,¡± she murmured, promptly shifting her attention back to her phone to text Fred a response. ¡°No need. Thank you for your concern.¡± However, Fred was clearly not convinced by her words.
Without hesitation, he dialed her number. The sharp ring of her phone made Belinda jump. As she regained herposure and reached to disconnect the call, a strong, defined hand swiftly snatched the phone away from her. The small table in the breakfast diner made it easy for Kristopher, with his long limbs, to reach across and take her phone. Belinda instinctively reached out to retrieve it, but Kristopher, sitting opposite her, deftly kept it out of her grasp. Meanwhile, he managed to hit the answer and speaker buttons.
Fred¡¯s anxious voice filled the air.
¡°Belinda, where are you? I¡¯m on my way. Your ex-husband keeps harassing you, and I know his intentions aren¡¯t good. I can¡¯t rx until I know you¡¯re safe. I¡¡±
¡°Young man,¡± Kristopher interrupted coldly. This content belongs to find¡¤novel
Fred was abruptly cut off by Kristopher¡¯s dismissive tone. ¡°Do I really need to remind you that Belinda and I are still married?¡± Silence enveloped the other end of the line as soon as Kristopher spoke. After a pause, Fred¡¯s voice returned, tinged with displeasure.
¡°You¡¯ll end up divorcing one way or another.¡±
§Þ?§Ô? ¦Ô¦Ñ??§ä?? ?§ä g?l????l?.???
¡°Belinda and I were actually talking about having another child. We¡¯re very much in love,¡± Kristopher retorted, his voice dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Our marriage status is our business, not yours, Fred.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s tone was icy andmanding, resonating with an almost palpable authority. Even over the phone, Fred felt as if Kristopher were right there, his dominating presence making him feel cornered and helpless.
Fred began, his voice rough with emotion.
¡°Listen,¡± Kristopher cut in before Fred could continue. His tone was calm but firm. ¡°I understand what¡¯s going through your mind. But let me make one thing clear. Don¡¯t get ideas about things that aren¡¯t meant for you.¡±
¡°And don¡¯t long for someone who doesn¡¯t belong to you.¡± With those final words, Kristopher didn¡¯t wait for a reply; he simply ended the call.
The conversation that unfolded infuriated Belinda. Watching Kristopher hang up, she swiftly grabbed her phone back from him, her voice sharp with indignation. ¡°What gave you the right to take my call?¡±
As she hurriedly typed a message to Fred, her expression soured further. ¡°Since when did we discuss having another child?¡±
Kristopher raised an eyebrow, observing her furrowed brow. ¡°I mentioned it in the elevator earlier.¡±
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Chapter 180
?Chapter 180:
Belinda hesitated, her mind reying his words in the elevator. ¡°We can have another baby in the future.¡±
A sarcasticugh escaped her lips. ¡°That¡¯s absurd. We¡¯re on the verge of a divorce.¡±
Had he made that offhandment merely because he was moved by the story of another couple¡¯s affection? Could a fleeting statement, made long after her miscarriage and devoid of any constion, be misconstrued by Kristopher as a serious talk about starting a family again?
When had he be so unreasonable?
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed as he read her expression. It was just as he suspected. Despite her protests, deep down, she wasn¡¯t ready to let go. The mocking smile on her face betrayed her reluctance to face the impending divorce.
With a thoughtful frown, he responded, ¡°The divorce is merely a temporary solution to safeguard Cathy for now. Once this ordeal is over, we¡¯ll get remarried.¡±
He stared intently at Belinda, his tone earnest. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯re still young. We have time. We¡¯ll have children eventually.¡±
The words, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re still young. We have time,¡± cut deeply into Belinda. She was young, yes, but her time was running short. Due to her deteriorating condition and the time she had left, she couldn¡¯t have another child.
And besides¡
Gazing directly at Kristopher, she articted each word deliberately. ¡°I don¡¯t need another baby.¡±
No sooner had she spoken than the waiter arrived with her order. Silently, she bowed her head and started to eat. Fresh chapters posted on Find¡ïNovel
Kristopher watched her, her head bowed over her meal, and he frowned slightly.
After they finished breakfast, they left the restaurant together, walking in uneasy silence. It wasn¡¯t until they stepped onto the elevator heading to Anthony¡¯s ward that Belinda finally allowed herself to look at Kristopher.
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¡°Mr. Cox,¡± she began, her voice carrying a mix of frustration and curiosity. ¡°You insisted on having breakfast with me, and I thought you had something important to discuss¡¡±
In the confined space of the elevator, she lifted her gaze to meet his directly. ¡°Was that all you wanted to tell me? That we should have another baby?¡±
She knew Kristopher too well. If he truly had something important to say, he would find another chance to talk privately, especially after failing to speak up this time. But she had no desire to be alone with him.
After a moment¡¯s contemtion in the elevator, she decided it was time to pose her question.
Kristopher¡¯s reaction was immediate; his brow furrowed as he gave her a look dripping with sarcasm. ¡°What do you suppose I want to say?¡± His tone was unmistakably teasing, indicating he had no intention of having a serious conversation.
She dropped the subject.
Belinda turned away, a frown creasing her forehead. She spoke without looking at him. ¡°Forget about it then. Just don¡¯t bring it up again as an excuse.¡±
The elevator resumed its silent descent.
Kristopher squinted at her, his stareden with pressure. Belinda, ignoring his piercing gaze, shifted her attention to the elevator¡¯s screen, feigning interest in anything but the tension between them.
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Chapter 181
?Chapter 181:
The elevator halted. She stepped out first.
¡°Belinda,¡± Kristopher called, his voice cold yet resonant.
Belinda paused but didn¡¯t turn to face him. ¡°What is it?¡±
His eyes lingered on her retreating figure for a long moment before he inhaled sharply. ¡°This afternoon, Marc will bring over the divorce papers. If everything looks okay, you can sign them. We could be divorced by tomorrow.¡±
She halted briefly, a wave of resignation washing over her. Despite her resolve to initiate the divorce, it felt like a defeat.
However, for Cathy, Kristopher, who had been upset about Belinda¡¯s absence at the court and refused to get a divorce again, now took the initiative to bring it up. He could even leave her for another woman.
Cathy found herself bewildered by her past affections for him.
As she mulled over these thoughts, she took a deep breath and agreed, ¡°Okay, I will be there.¡±
She then continued on her way to deliver breakfast to Anthony and Allen, making her way toward their hospital room.
¡°And¡¡± Kristopher called after her, halting her in her tracks once more. ¡°Three days from now, at the Summit Hotel. The ceremony.¡±
He paused, locking eyes with her, a probing look on his face. ¡°You know what kind of ceremony it is, don¡¯t you?¡±
Belinda froze, her mind racing. The Summit Hotel¡ Wasn¡¯t that where Maggie mentioned Kristopher was nning to propose to Cathy? Why was he asking her if she knew about the ceremony?
Struggling to maintain herposure, Belinda turned to give Kristopher a frosty stare. ¡°I know. What¡¯s wrong?¡±
She was aware of the event and refused to feign ignorance before him. Kristopher, noticing her resolute demeanor, let out a barely noticeable sigh of relief. ¡°Even if we¡¯re divorced by then, I hope you can attend. Belinda¡ make sure you¡¯re there on time.¡±
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He nced at her attire and added somewhat thoughtlessly, ¡°And wear something nice.¡±
Belinda froze, her gaze locked on Kristopher in stunned silence.
Had he lost his mind?
In just three days, he was set to propose to Cathy, and yet here he was, asking her, his former wife, to not only attend but also to dress elegantly for the asion. What was he even thinking?
Did he actually believe they could remain friends after their divorce, or was this some twisted attempt to embarrass her?
The intensity in Belinda¡¯s eyes made Kristopher visibly uneasy. He scowled, brushed past her, and made his way quickly toward the hospital room.
Belinda, caught in a whirlwind of emotions, watched his tall, straight figure disappear down the hall before she shook herself out of her reverie and hurried after him, carrying two breakfast trays.
Inside the room, Allen and Anthony were talking about Allen¡¯s ideal woman.
Allen thought for a moment, then responded with a gentle smile. ¡°I tend to favor someone like Belinda. Unfortunately¡¡± Find the newest release on findnovel
¡°Unfortunately, she ended up with that scoundrel Kristopher, didn¡¯t she?¡± Anthony stroked his grey beard, his voiceced with amusement. ¡°Had Belinda not married Kristopher, you two might have made a fine pair. I could have seen myself ying cupid for you!¡±
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Chapter 182
?Chapter 182:
He sighed wistfully. ¡°What a shame.¡±
Allen chuckled in response. ¡°It¡¯s all good. Now that Belinda and Kristopher are splitting up, I might still have my chance.¡±
Anthony¡¯sughter joined Allen¡¯s as he saw the confident grin on the younger man¡¯s face. ¡°Indeed, once they¡¯re divorced, they¡¯ll part ways. You¡¯ve got plenty to offer, Allen; pursuing Belinda could well be within your reach.¡±
Allen¡¯s eyes sparkled with unexpected joy at Anthony¡¯s supportive stance. ¡°Really, Anthony? You¡¯d be okay with me going after Belinda?¡±
With a hearty chuckle, Anthony replied, ¡°Of course, why would I object? That¡¯s entirely up to you two. Just because they¡¯re divorced doesn¡¯t mean we should hold Belinda to that pastmitment and deny her the chance to find someone new. Moreover¡¡±
Anthony paused, sighing deeply. ¡°Kristopher was the one who failed Belinda first by getting involved with Cathy. It¡¯s not our ce, as the Cox family, to stop her from seeking happiness elsewhere.¡±
As Belinda and Kristopher approached the room, they overheard Anthony expressing heartfelt sentiments about Belinda¡¯s potential new romance post-divorce.
Gripping the breakfast bags tightly, Belinda listened intently at the door.
Anthony¡¯s words, focused solely on her perspective, filled her with warmth. Despite having no initial ns for a new rtionship after her divorce, Anthony¡¯s understanding and open-mindedness deeply moved her. Beside her, Kristopher noticed the gratitude in her eyes, and his brow furrowed in concern.
¡°Anthony, since you¡¯ve brought it up¡¡± For more chapters visit Find¡ïNovel
Allen¡¯s voice, cheerful and light, floated through the door. ¡°Perhaps I should seriously consider pursuing Belinda.¡±
¡°No worries.¡± Anthony¡¯sughter filled the room. ¡°You¡¯re a dependable young man, and I¡¯d be at ease if Belinda were with someone like you. But let fate take its course. If it¡¯s not meant to be, don¡¯t push it. However, if things do work out, expect a generous gift from me at your wedding!¡±
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Allen¡¯s voice brightened. ¡°Well, with a gift on the line, I¡¯ll certainly put my heart into it¡¡±
Before Allen could finish, the door swung open. Kristopher, standing in the doorway with a look of anger clouding his features, fixed his gaze on Allen. ¡°Should I also start nning to bring a big gift, then?¡±
Allen¡¯s smile froze abruptly. He shot an awkward nce over his shoulder at Kristopher and Belinda. ¡°Kristopher, I was just kidding. Why are you so scared to admit it?¡±
Unlike Allen¡¯s difort, Anthony was blunt. He scoffed. ¡°You didn¡¯t value Belinda, so it¡¯s only natural someone else will! If you¡¯re serious about divorcing her, why does it bother you if someone else is interested?¡±
Then, turning to Allen, he continued, ¡°I like Allen. Sure, he¡¯s juste back to the country and his career isn¡¯t much yet, but at least his personal life isn¡¯t a mess. Not like some, who treat a former lover who ditched them first as if she¡¯s gold!¡±
Anthony¡¯s sharp words made Kristopher frown. ¡°Grandpa, I¡¯ve tried to exin. You¡¯re mistaken about Cathy. She¡¡±
¡°I don¡¯t want to hear that name!¡± Anthony interrupted sternly. ¡°Don¡¯t bring her up again!¡±
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Chapter 183
?Chapter 183:
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened, and he stayed quiet, respecting his grandfather¡¯s wishes. A heavy silence enveloped the room.
After a moment, Anthony sighed and turned to Belinda. ¡°Belinda, when I orchestrated your marriage into the Cox family, it was because I truly cared for you and envisioned us as a family. I never anticipated this¡¡± He let out a heavy sigh. ¡°But Allen is a good young man. If only you could find happiness with him¡¡±
¡°Anthony,¡± Belinda interrupted, her smile warm as she bnced two breakfast trays in her hands. She weaved past Kristopher and approached Anthony. ¡°What are you implying? I don¡¯t need a man to define my life. Please, stop making ns for me.¡±
She ced the hearty breakfast in front of Anthony and Allen and skillfully arranged the small table on Anthony¡¯s bed. As sheid out the dishes, her smile softened,forting Anthony. ¡°Even after the divorce, I¡¯ll still treat you as my grandpa. It doesn¡¯t matter if I¡¯m not linked to someone you hold dear; I¡¯ll stille by and look after you. Don¡¯t worry!¡±
Anthony¡¯sughter filled the room. ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll stay out of your affairs. But promise me, Belinda, after the divorce, you must visit often!¡±
¡°I will, Anthony. Haven¡¯t I alwayse to see you and looked after you before I was married?¡± she reassured him cheerfully.
Kristopher lingered by the door, his expression tightening as he observed Belinda caring for Anthony with such joy. His gaze became increasingly troubled.
Lately, any conversation with his grandfather, especially about Cathy, would swiftly turn into an argument. But Belinda had a unique way of pulling the old man from his fits of anger, making him burst into heartyughter.
What was it about her that made Anthony so deeply fond and tolerant? At that moment, Belinda was turned away from Kristopher, busily arranging Anthony¡¯s breakfast.
As she turned to throw away some trash, she realized that the doorway, where Kristopher had been, was now vacant. ¡°He stepped out after getting a call.¡±
Noticing Belinda¡¯s gaze drift to where Kristopher had stood, Allen exined in a calm tone as he dabbed his mouth with a napkin, ¡°I didn¡¯t catch the details, but it sounded like Cathy needed him. He¡¯s been away for quite some time now.¡±
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Belinda uttered a soft ¡°Oh,¡± her face showing little interest as she continued with her task.
Her curiosity was merely about the timing of his departure. She was not bothered about the reasons or whom he was with.
¡°That rascal ispletely bewitched by that woman!¡± Anthony scoffed, then looked towards Allen. ¡°Speaking of which, I remember that rascal mentioned Cathy fell ill while she was overseas. Could you find out what was wrong with her?¡±
Allen raised an eyebrow. ¡°Could Kristopher be treating Cathy well because she¡¯s ill?¡±
As he posed the question, he nced instinctively at Belinda. She remainedposed, focused on arranging the items on a small table, her expression revealing no emotion.
It was as if the people Allen and Anthony were discussing were strangers to her.
¡°What illness? It¡¯s merely an excuse!¡± Anthony snorted dismissively. ¡°Cathy appears rosy and energetic. If she¡¯s ill, it¡¯s likely nothing serious. Could it be a terminal illness?¡±
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Chapter 184
?Chapter 184:
Belinda, sensitive to discussions of health due to her own conditions, shuddered slightly at the mention of ¡°terminal illness.¡± However, she quickly regained herposure and continued her task with calm efficiency.
Allen noticed the brief change in her demeanor.
After breakfast, Anthony was required to remain in the hospital for intravenous treatment and rest. Upon bidding him goodbye, Allen and Belinda exited the hospital room together.
¡°Just now¡¡±
Inside the elevator, as the doors shut, Allen¡¯s brow furrowed with concern. ¡°Earlier, when Anthony brought up Cathy¡¯s condition, you seemed unsettled.¡±
He studied Belinda, tilting his head slightly to gauge her reaction. ¡°Is there a past trauma that makes you sensitive to mentions of ¡®terminal illness¡¯?¡±
Taken aback, Belinda paused briefly before shaking her head. ¡°No.¡±
¡°Then, you¡¡±
¡°You are mistaken,¡± she cut him off with a cold tone. ¡°I felt nothing unusual.¡±
Allen looked into her resolute eyes, his own filled with doubt. ¡°So, I was mistaken?¡±
¡°Mm.¡±
Belinda nodded, swiftly changing the subject. ¡°Mr. Wilde.¡±
His thoughts interrupted, Allen responded, ¡°Yes?¡±
¡°Regarding what you said to Anthony earlier¡¡±
She inhaled deeply. ¡°I will consider it a joke. After my divorce, I intend to maintain no connections with anyone linked to Kristopher, except for Anthony. I trust you understand.¡±
Allen, momentarily taken aback by Belinda¡¯s frank dismissal of any deeper connection, managed a bitter smile. ¡°Is there really no chance for me? I am not Kristopher.¡±
Keep reading on g¦Á?¦Ç¦Òv????s
Belinda looked directly at him, her expression tinged with cool detachment. ¡°Can you guarantee that your family will sever all ties with Kristopher for my sake?¡±
Allen was taken aback, falling silent. Kristopher was the CEO of the Cox Group, amercial titan in Nawrin. Dealing with him was unavoidable for anyone interested in business there. Moreover, the Wilde and Cox families shared close personal ties, reaping substantial benefits from their association with Kristopher over the years.
Allen knew he couldn¡¯t guarantee his own disassociation from Kristopher, let alone promise the same for his entire family.
¡°Since you can¡¯t, if I ept you, I would inevitably have to see Kristopher. It would affect your family¡¯s business dealings with him first and foremost.¡±
She took a deep breath. ¡°I don¡¯t want any ties with Kristopher after the divorce. It¡¯s best if we don¡¯t even see each other. I hope you understand.¡±
Just as Belinda finished speaking, the elevator doors opened.
She smiled at Allen. ¡°I¡¯m leaving now.¡±
With that, she walked out of the elevator.
To her surprise, the first floor of Peace Hospital was bustling.
Reporters with cameras and microphones filled the area. Original content can be found at f?ndnovel
In the center of this frenzy, Cathy appeared bashful, while Kristopher stood behind her with a gentle, doting expression.
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Chapter 185
?Chapter 185:
¡°Miss Miller, there¡¯s talk online that Mr. Cox is parading your rtionship to get back at his wife for her infidelity. What¡¯s your take on that?¡±
¡°Miss Miller, do you believe Mr. Cox¡¯s affections are real, or is this merely a way for him to retaliate against his wife?¡±
¡°Miss Miller, are you nning to continue seeing Mr. Cox?¡±
Reporters swarmed around Cathy, firing off question after question.
Holding Kristopher¡¯s arm tightly, Cathy answered each question in a gentle voice, ¡°Kristopher is a wonderful man. Perhaps he was wronged by someone who didn¡¯t truly understand him. It breaks my heart. I¡¯ve known Kristopher for five years. Though we spent three of those years apart, our connection is solid. Looking ahead, Kristopher and I will remain close friends!¡± Updates are released by f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
After saying this, she couldn¡¯t resist giving Kristopher a shy nce. The reporters couldn¡¯t resist teasing her.
¡°Just close friends, or perhaps more?¡±
Cathy¡¯s cheeks turned pink. ¡°Really, we¡¯re just friends. Let¡¯s not jump to conclusions!¡±
One reporterughed. ¡°Understood, understood!¡±
¡°So, it¡¯s ¡®just friends¡¯ until Mr. Cox parts ways with his ungrateful wife, huh?¡±
Laughter erupted among the reporters at this remark.
Cathy shot a yful re at the cluster of reporters. ¡°Don¡¯t fabricate anything in your reports. If this messes with Kristopher¡¯s divorce proceedings, I¡¯ll hold you ountable.¡±
The reporters chuckled. ¡°No worries, Miss Miller. We¡¯ve got it under control!¡±
¡°Seems like Cathy¡¯s bribed these reporters,¡± Allen remarked in a frosty tone as he exited the elevator behind Belinda. ¡°They¡¯re bending the truth to paint her as Kristopher¡¯s legitimate wife.¡± He expected Belinda to react, but she kept quiet.
Growing concerned, he moved closer to her and noticed she was subtly capturing Cathy¡¯s interactions with Kristopher and the reporters on her phone.
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Allen¡¯s eyes widened in surprise.
Once Belinda ceased recording, he furrowed his brow. ¡°Belinda, what are you up to?¡±
¡°Just saving memories,¡± Belinda responded with a shrug as she uploaded the video to a cloud server. She gave him a side nce. ¡°Isn¡¯t it interesting?¡±
Allen stared at Belinda¡¯s serene face, momentarily speechless.
Belinda was nothing like the rumors had suggested.
¡°Hey, who¡¯s that?¡± A reporter suddenly shouted, pointing toward the elevator. His voice escted. ¡°Isn¡¯t she Mr. Cox¡¯s ungrateful wife?¡±
With those words, all eyes shifted to Belinda and Allen. ¡°It really is her!¡±
Instantly, the reporters swarmed like vultures, their cameras trained on Belinda.
¡°Miss Nelson, why did you betray Mr. Cox during your marriage, conceive with another man, and then secretly abort the baby?¡±
¡°Miss Nelson, with Mr. Cox here to collect Miss Miller from the hospital, what brings you here? Are you envious and following them?¡±
¡°Miss Nelson, how do you respond to allegations that you coerced Mr. Cox into marrying you three years ago while he was incapacitated?¡±
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Chapter 186
?Chapter 186:
¡°Miss Nelson, seeing Mr. Cox with Miss Miller, do you feel any remorse? Will you let go of Mr. Cox and allow them happiness, or will you shamelessly hold onto him and tear them apart?¡±
Each question that the reporters directed at Belinda seemedced with hostility. While Cathy was met with a soft tone, Belinda faced unrelenting harshness.
Unable to endure it any longer, Allen burst out, ¡°Do you even know how to speak respectfully?¡±
It seemed that the reporters reserved their cruelest words exclusively for Belinda.
Until that moment, the reporters hadrgely ignored Allen. As soon as he intervened, they swiftly turned their attention to him. ¡°Sir, what is your rtionship with Miss Nelson?¡±
¡°Why are you so protective of her? Are you her secret lover? Was the child she aborted yours?¡±
¡°Could you please rify?¡±
¡°This gentleman here is Allen Wilde, the eldest son of the prominent Wilde family, recently returned from abroad.¡±
As the focus shifted to Allen, Belinda¡¯s gaze sharpened. ¡°Are you sure you want to aim those cameras at him and nder him?¡±
Her words took the reporters by surprise, rendering them momentarily speechless.
After a brief silence, one of them managed a strained smile. ¡°Ah, so it¡¯s Mr. Wilde!¡±
¡°The child Miss Nelson was rumored to have was conceived over four months ago, which clearly exonerates Mr. Wilde.¡±
¡°Our apologies for the confusion!¡±
With the issue seemingly deflected, the reporters turned their attention back to Belinda. ¡°Miss Nelson, your response, please!¡±
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Belinda arched an eyebrow and nced toward Kristopher and Cathy, who stood at a distance. Cathy clung to Kristopher with a delicate touch, and he enveloped her in a protective embrace, his brow furrowed as he murmured into her ear. They looked every bit the love-struck couple.
Noticing Belinda¡¯s watchful gaze, Kristopher¡¯s grip on Cathy ckened as he looked her way.
Belinda, however, avoided his gaze. She let out a disdainful snort and turned her back on them.
The reporters, relentless, pressed on with their unyielding questions.
With a sly smirk, Belinda pulled out her phone and started recording the scene before her.
The reporters, who were used to being the ones capturing moments, were visibly unsettled by the reversal.
One reporter, clearly annoyed, challenged her, ¡°Miss Nelson, what are you doing?¡±
Belindaughed softly. ¡°My memory isn¡¯t the best, and I can¡¯t keep track of so many faces at once, so I¡¯m recording this. If any news outlet misreports what happens here today, I¡¯ll have my own evidence.¡± She handed her phone to Allen, adding, ¡°Mr. Wilde, would you mind helping me out here?¡±
Allen hastily grabbed the phone, resuming his recording of the reporters. Fresh chapters posted on F¦ÉndNovel
¡°About your questions, I have something to say,¡± Belinda began, her voice unwavering.
She stood slightly elevated, looking down at the cluster of reporters, even though she was shorter than most. ¡°As reporters, you should have an objective and just attitude, shouldn¡¯t you? Now, I strongly doubt your professionalism. You¡¯re all quick to im that I cheated and conceived with another man, as if you had seen it with your own eyes. Where¡¯s your proof?¡±
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Chapter 187
?Chapter 187:
Her question left the reporters momentarily dumbstruck.
Murmurs and uneasy nces passed among them until one reporter timidly broke the silence. ¡°If you¡¯re innocent of cheating, why did you choose to secretly abort the baby?¡±
Spurred by this, others joined in, their voices ovepping. ¡°Exactly, if it wasn¡¯t a child, why go through an abortion?¡±
¡°You and Mr. Cox have been together for three years. Why would you terminate your first child with him?¡±
Belinda repeated the question, letting it hang in the air. ¡°Why did I abort the baby?¡± She inhaled sharply, her gaze drifting past the cameras and settling in the direction of Kristopher.
At that moment, their eyes locked. Kristopher¡¯s gaze wasden with concealed concern, while Belinda¡¯s bore a frosty determination.
She understood his fears.
Taking another deep breath, she broke off their visual connection and began, ¡°Because¡ it wasn¡¯t his child.¡±
¡°By the time I learned I was pregnant, I had already made up my mind to divorce Mr. Cox,¡± Belinda announced, inhaling deeply before shing a smile at the gathering reporters. ¡°Mr. Cox and I had been contemting divorce for over a month due to our irreconcble differences.¡±
She continued, ¡°It was after we finalized the divorce papers that I discovered I was three months along. Realizing that my child would be born into a fractured family andck blessings, I chose to terminate the pregnancy.¡±
Belinda¡¯s tone was steady and controlled. ¡°Mr. Cox had already made up his mind about the divorce and hadn¡¯t been home or shown any affection. He was unaware of the pregnancy.¡±
She paused for a moment, her expression softening slightly. ¡°I acknowledge that deciding to have an abortion without consulting Mr. Cox might seem questionable. However, it was the right decision for me, for Mr. Cox, and for his current girlfriend.¡±
She scanned the crowd of reporters, her gaze unwavering. ¡°Are there any other questions about the baby or anything else?¡±
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From a distance, Kristopher watched Belinda handle the press with a furrowed brow. Despite the barrage of questions, she never wavered. She recounted their supposed divorce from a month prior with such confidence and poise that it appearedpletely genuine.
Her sincerity made it hard to believe she was fabricating anything.
A mix of fear and confusion stirred in Kristopher. Everything Belinda had stated was true, except for the fake divorce agreement. He hadn¡¯t been home, hadn¡¯t seen Belinda, and was unaware of her pregnancy.
If he hadn¡¯t apanied Cathy to her doctor¡¯s appointment that day, he would have remained oblivious to Belinda¡¯s miscarriage.
These thoughts overwhelmed him, suffocating his breath. Though he justified his actions internally, the harsh reality still pierced him.
¡°Kristopher,¡± Cathy whispered, her voice gently interrupting his turmoil. ¡°Did you truly decide to divorce Miss Nelson more than a month ago?¡±
Her soft query carried across the space, clear enough for Belinda and the nearby reporters to overhear. Every gaze shifted toward Kristopher and Cathy. Under the weight of their stares, Kristopher, slightly frowning, could only nod. ¡°Yes.¡±
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Chapter 188
?Chapter 188:
A glimmer of thrill lit up Cathy¡¯s eyes. ¡°I remember reaching out to you abouting back to the country just over a month ago! So, Kristopher, the moment you knew I was returning, you chose to end things with Miss Nelson? You didn¡¯t go back home or see her since then?¡± ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find[f]ovel
With that, she lunged into Kristopher¡¯s arms. ¡°I knew you still held a ce for me in your heart!¡±
Cradled in Kristopher¡¯s strong embrace, Cathy, fragile and radiant, seemed utterly at home. Their union appeared so natural and sweet, painting a picture of perfect harmony. The reporters, already partial to Cathy, shifted their focus from Belinda and aimed their cameras at the couple.
¡°Mr. Cox, Miss Miller, you truly are a match made in heaven!¡±
¡°With the news of Miss Miller¡¯s return, Mr. Cox bravely concluded his unhappy marriage a month early. It¡¯s like something out of a storybook!¡±
¡°The love story between Mr. Cox and Miss Miller rekindles our faith in true love!¡±
As reporters surrounded Kristopher and Cathy, buzzing around them incessantly, Belinda let out a slow breath and nced at Allen. Allen, absorbed in capturing the scene on his phone, was the picture of diligence.
With a soft chuckle, Belinda approached and gently took the phone from his hands. ¡°That¡¯s enough for now.¡±
Jolted from his focus, Allen looked up and caught Belinda¡¯s glowing smile. Silhouetted against the backlight, her face radiated a warm, grateful expression. ¡°Thanks, Mr. Wilde. I owe you and Madisyn a dinner.¡± She then turned and made her way toward the hospital¡¯s exit. Allen¡¯s gaze lingered on her retreating figure, admiring her poised and decisive manner.
Had he not been aware of her past with Kristopher, he might have believed their separation had been as serene as it appeared a month ago.
¡°Miss Nelson!¡± Cathy¡¯s voice, tinged with a blend of softness and challenge, stopped Belinda in her tracks just as she reached the doorway. ¡°Please, just a moment.¡±
Belinda halted abruptly.
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She pivoted and cast a nonchnt nce toward Cathy, her face devoid of emotion. ¡°Miss Miller, did you need something?¡±
¡°Absolutely,¡± Cathy answered.
She released Kristopher¡¯s arm and, weaving through a throng of reporters, approached Belinda. With a warm gesture, Cathy linked arms with her. ¡°Miss Nelson, I know you had your reasons for marrying Kristopher three years ago, and you¡¯ve taken great care of him since then on my behalf. But now, a month after you both signed the divorce papers, and with your marriage certificate and abortion records leaked¡¡± Her smile was sharine as her fingers tightened painfully on Belinda¡¯s arm. ¡°To clear up any further confusion, why not seize this moment? With the press here, could you officially finalize your divorce at the courthouse?¡± Her tone was sweet, but her grip was unyielding. ¡°Miss Nelson, do you agree?¡±
The reporters buzzed with excitement.
¡°Imagine, finalizing your divorce right in front of our cameras for the whole world to see¡ It would be so convincing!¡±
¡°Clearing up the rumors today would instantly dispel all the negative chatter online!¡±
¡°Miss Nelson, you were so forthright earlier, confirming the divorce was settled over a month ago¡ Surely, you¡¯re ready to make it official now, aren¡¯t you?¡±
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Chapter 189
?Chapter 189:
¡°Why not make it done today? The courthouse is quite efficient nowadays!¡±
Every word from the reporters bolstered Cathy, putting pressure on Belinda to consider divorce.
Kristopher, witnessing their fervor, was suddenly overwhelmed with frustration.
He marched past the reporters and positioned himself protectively in front of Belinda and Cathy. His towering stature and themanding tone of his deep voice demanded attention. ¡°Enough,¡± he dered firmly. ¡°All you need to know is that Belinda and I are nning to divorce, and the proceedings willmence shortly. The details of our divorce papers and the timing to obtain the divorce certificate are private matters, and it¡¯s not the ce of outsiders to pry.¡±
As a key figure in Nawrin¡¯s business sector, Kristopher radiated a potent sense of control.
Although he had previously treated the reporters with politeness due to Cathy¡¯s fame, their growing boldness now stirred his fury. With no further patience for their impudence, he adopted a stern demeanor.
This shift quieted the reporters immediately; they could feel the intense pressure emanating from him, prompting a hushed silence to fall over the area.
The reporters, usually so eager to engage, now bowed their heads submissively, finding themselves unable to speak under the scrutiny of such a dominant figure. Even the reporters who had maintained a friendly rapport with Cathy were rendered speechless.
Sensing the tension, Cathy, standing behind Kristopher, frowned and subtly gestured to the reporters, urging them to step forward.
Yet none dared to meet Kristopher¡¯s stern gaze, much less confront him. Cathy¡¯s re intensified as she surveyed the reporters, irked by their timidity.
She had meticulously nned this confrontation to corner Kristopher into publicly agreeing to divorce Belinda, eliminating any possibility of his backing out.
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Yet, at this critical moment, these cowards remained silent.
Her efforts in gathering them seemed wasted.
As her frustration boiled over, someone suddenly tugged at her arm, pulling her away from Belinda. Checktest chapters at find~novel
Surprised, Cathy turned to find Belinda shaking off her grip.
Belinda faced Kristopher with a serene expression. ¡°Mr. Cox, I believe Miss Miller and the reporters have a point. Finalizing our divorce today will quell the rampant spection online. I¡¯ll im only what¡¯s rightfully mine. I seek no part of Cox Group¡¯s wealth, nor do I wish to split any additional assets.¡±
She offered Kristopher a faint smile. ¡°Shall we proceed to the courthouse now?¡±
Kristopher froze in ce, his tall, upright figure abruptly rigid.
He turned to face Belinda¡¯s bright, smiling eyes. ¡°Since we decided to divorce over a month ago and Miss Miller has returned, prolonging this doesn¡¯t benefit anyone, right?¡±
Belinda didn¡¯t wait for a response, turning on her heel and striding towards the hospital entrance.
Kristopher stood motionless, watching her walk away. His heart felt as though it was being crushed by an unseen force, the pain intense. Throughout their three years together, Belinda had mentioned divorce several times.
Each instance, he had brushed her concerns aside, and she eventually conceded, apologizing and admitting her faults in their quarrels. But this time was different; she remained firm and didn¡¯t back down. A deep sense of loss and helplessness washed over Kristopher, making it difficult to breathe.
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Chapter 190
?Chapter 190:
¡°Kristopher, let¡¯s go!¡± Cathy¡¯s voice broke through his reverie as she approached with excitement, clutching his arm. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t keep Miss Nelson waiting!¡±
Her words barely settled when the reporters nearby joined in with eagerments.
¡°Come on, move it before she reconsiders.¡±
¡°Broadcasting Kristopher Cox¡¯s divorce? This will be the highlight of my career as a reporter!¡±
¡°I¡¯m eager to see how this high-profile breakup ys out!¡±
¡°This will definitely make the front page. I need to capture every detail!¡±
Every remark from the reporters felt like ants crawling over Kristopher¡¯s heart, each one ramping up his frustration.
With Belinda already on her way to the courthouse, he knew there was no turning back.
Under the scrutinizing gaze of the public, regret was not an option for Kristopher!
As he left the hospital with Cathy clinging to his arm, he saw Belinda climbing into Allen¡¯s car in the distance, and his heart twinged with pain.
Did she really want to cut ties so badly that she had to make their divorce this public and contentious?
She wouldn¡¯t even share a car ride with him to the courthouse, right next to Allen¡¯s.
¡°Miss Nelson and Mr. Wilde seem to be getting along quite well,¡± Cathy remarked as they settled into their car, her eyes lingering on Allen¡¯s red sports car as it pulled away. ¡°I remember Mr. Wilde mentioning it was his first time meeting Miss Nelson at the racetrack not too long ago. They¡¯ve be quite familiar with each other in such a short time,¡± she added, then sighed. ¡°Miss Nelson seems to connect easily with everyone. She¡¯s made friends with so many men, unlike me¡ You¡¯ve been my only friend for all these years, Kristopher.¡±
Kristopher reclined in his seat, his eyes heavy with fatigue. ¡°If you like, you could try meeting more male friends too.¡±
Cathy looked surprised by his suggestion. ¡°I don¡¯t want to.¡± She bit her lip, resting her head against his arm as she whispered, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want to have a lot of male friends. I¡¯m worried you might get jealous, Kristopher.¡±
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With his eyes closed, Kristopher was transported back to a simr moment with Belinda, who had smiled as she leaned against him.
¡°Putting your rtionship to the test with a third person shows ack of trust and can hurt your partner. If I ever get close to another man, it¡¯s because I find him appealing or because my feelings for you have¡ faded ¡ª not to make you jealous. If I still cared for you, I couldn¡¯t stand to see you in pain!¡±
At that time, Belinda had seemedpletely devoted to him, her eyes alight with affection. But that sparkle had long since faded from her gaze.
¡°Kristopher?¡± Cathy¡¯s voice pulled him from his reverie. Noticing his distant expression, she frowned and repeated, more insistently, ¡°Kristopher?¡±
He opened his eyes, returning to the present. ¡°Yes, what is it?¡±
¡°You weren¡¯t paying attention to me again!¡± Cathyined, her lips forming a pout as she red at him. ¡°You¡¯ve seemed so distant when you¡¯re with me these days!¡±
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Chapter 191
?Chapter 191:
Leaning closer, she clung to his arm. ¡°I was asking if you¡¯d get jealous if I, like Miss Nelson, started meeting other men frequently.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°No, I wouldn¡¯t.¡±
¡°Belinda, are you¡ are you really sure about this?¡± Allen¡¯s voice carried a weight of concern as he navigated the speeding car, his eyebrows knitting together in worry. He risked a quick nce at Belinda, who sat calmly beside him. ¡°Going through with a live-streamed divorce in front of all those reporters¡ Once it¡¯s done, there¡¯s no turning back.¡±
Over the recent days, Allen had pieced together the turbulent saga of the past three years between Kristopher and Belinda. Time and again, Belinda had wielded the threat of divorce like a sword, each instance stirring up drama. Yet, each time, it had been Belinda who felt the sting of regret and sought reconciliation with Kristopher. Despite her history, her resolve now seemed steadfast.
¡°Why would I regret it?¡± Belinda looked up from her phone, her eyes meeting Allen¡¯s with a spark of defiance. ¡°Do you think I can¡¯t manage without Kristopher?¡±
Her question caught Allen off-guard, leaving him momentarily lost for words. Allen tightened his grip on the steering wheel, his surprise evident. ¡°No, that¡¯s not what I meant. I¡ª¡±
¡°I know,¡± Belinda interrupted, her voice cool as she locked her phone and stared straight ahead, her expression unreadable. ¡°In your circle, there must be endless tales of me groveling back to Kristopher. But that chapter is closed. Everyone¡¯s aware of his newfound devotion to Cathy. I can¡¯t keep deceiving myself.¡±
Her demeanor was detached, as though she were discussing a stranger¡¯s scandal rather than her own life.
After a brief silence, Allen offered a wry smile. ¡°So, should I be congratting you on a fresh start?¡±
Belinda looked down, busily capturing screenshots of the negative articles about her online. ¡°It¡¯s not a fresh start. More like, I¡¯ve finally seen the light.¡±
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As they paused at a red light, Allen nced over, a puzzled look on his face. ¡°What are you doing?¡±
¡°Just like when I asked you to record that video at the hospital,¡± Belinda exined with a subdued smile. ¡°I¡¯m collecting evidence.¡± She paused, then added, ¡°No matter how much they were paid, these reporters will learn that ndering mees with a cost.¡± Content originallyes from fin?novel
She carefully saved the screenshots to a cloud drive, her expressionposed and determined. Observing her, Allen was struck by a sudden certainty that Kristopher would one day regret their divorce.
They soon reached the courthouse. Thanks to the news being leaked online, the entrance was swarmed by reporters and onlookers. Kristopher¡¯s assistant, Marc, along with over a dozen bodyguards, struggled to carve out a passage for Kristopher and Belinda to make their way into the building.
Stepping out of the car, Belinda faced the throng, her heart tightening with emotion. Their marriage had always been low-key, so quiet that many were unaware Kristopher had been married secretly for three years. Now, the unraveling of their marriage was nothing short of a spectacle. It seemed as if everyone had been waiting for their divorce with bated breath.
When she and Kristopher had tied the knot, it had been a simple affair at City Hall with only Anthony and Stanley in attendance. But now, as they faced their divorce, the crowd was surprisinglyrge. Maybe this was the fitting end to their marriage, wasn¡¯t it?
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Chapter 192
?Chapter 192:
Just then, Belinda¡¯s phone buzzed. It was a text from Anthony. His message was brief. ¡°Belinda, you¡¯ll always be part of my family.¡±
Those few words, unexpectedly, stirred a strong emotion in Belinda, who had managed to stayposed until now. She realized that the person most devastated by the divorce wasn¡¯t her or Kristopher. It was Anthony. Despite his own heartache, he sent his blessings from a distance, understanding her struggles over the years better than anyone else.
As Kristopher got out of his car, he caught the sorrow in Belinda¡¯s eyes. The pain and regret in her look struck a chord in him. He frowned.
Brushing past Cathy, who had just stepped out of the car, Kristopher walked up to Belinda. In a tone that was chillingly calm and intended for her ears only, he queried, ¡°Having second thoughts?¡±
¡°Second thoughts?¡±
¡°Absolutely not,¡± Belinda stated firmly, sliding her phone into her bag without sparing him a nce. ¡°Let¡¯s proceed.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze sharpened as he watched her walk away. She hadn¡¯t made eye contact during their terse exchange. Was it that she couldn¡¯t bear to look at him, or that she feared her resolve might waver? If she still harbored feelings, why was she so determined to finalize their divorce?
¡°Kristopher!¡± Cathy called out, catching up with them at the courthouse entrance. She grasped his arm. ¡°Should I go inside with you?¡±
She bit her lip, molding her features into a look of beauty and vulnerability for the cameras. ¡°I¡¯m worried they might take advantage of you.¡±
Kristopher frowned and opened his mouth to respond but paused at the sight of the growing crowd. Gently, he freed his arm from Cathy¡¯s grip. ¡°You should stay here. This is between Belinda and me.¡±
Tears brimmed in Cathy¡¯s eyes. ¡°But Kristopher¡ª¡±
¡°If Miss Miller is so eager to watch, she cane inside too,¡± Belinda interjected, stopping abruptly and offering a mocking smile. ¡°If all three of us enter for a divorce, the court staff won¡¯t even need to ask why. It¡¯ll streamline the process.¡±
The color drained from Cathy¡¯s face. She tightened her grip on Kristopher¡¯s arm and shot Belinda a venomous look, whispering loud enough for them to hear, ¡°In any rtionship, the one who isn¡¯t loved is always the outsider!¡± Updates are released by find?novel
¡°Oh?¡± Belinda retorted with a smirk. ¡°Are you implying that I¡¯m the irrelevant outsider, and that you two have a legitimate im?¡±
Cathy huffed, interpreting the smirk as confirmation. ¡°In that case, we might as well cancel the divorce proceedings, right? After all, you seem quitefortable with your current arrangement¡ª¡±
¡°Miss Miller?¡± Belinda asked, then feigned turning to leave.
Cathy, who had orchestrated this very public separation, reacted instantly, seizing Belinda¡¯s arm. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare walk away!¡±
With her back to Kristopher, Cathy¡¯s innocent fa?ade dropped. In a menacing whisper meant only for Belinda, she hissed, ¡°After everything we¡¯ve been through, what¡¯s holding you back now? What are you second guessing? Kristopher has arranged our engagement party¡ªvenue, cake, everything. We¡¯re about to celebrate our union. Don¡¯t ruin it now!¡±
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Chapter 193
?Chapter 193:
¡°Who¡¯s really causing the trouble, you or me?¡± Belinda retorted with a sneer. ¡°Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know you engineered all of this online.¡± She held Cathy¡¯s gaze. ¡°You leaked my marriage certificate with Fred¡¯s name by mistake, and you exposed my miscarriage.¡±
Belinda¡¯sugh was bitter. ¡°Kristopher and I were married in private. We could have ended it quietly, allowing you both to start fresh. But you chose to drag us into the spotlight. Kristopher pities you and has stopped me from revealing your role as the other woman. Do you honestly think you¡¯ll escape the consequences of your actions?¡±
With that, Belinda wrenched her arm free. Though she applied little force, Cathy lost her bnce and stumbled backward¡ªright toward Kristopher.
Strong hands caught her in mid-fall. Cathy¡¯s eyes sparkled with relief as she turned her head. ¡°Kristopher, did you see what¡ª¡±
Her voice caught when she realized it wasn¡¯t Kristopher who had saved her but Allen.
Cathy recoiled as if struck by electricity, stepping quickly away from Allen. He wasn¡¯t surprised by her reaction. Folding his arms, he slipped in front of her, blocking her view of Kristopher. ¡°Cathy, let¡¯s stay out of other people¡¯s divorces. Not every drama is worth our attention.¡±
With that, he turned to Belinda and gave her a quick wink. Belinda shrugged and moved past them to stand beside Kristopher. ¡°Let¡¯s finish this, Mr. Cox.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he caught her wrist, his voice low and tense. ¡°Belinda, you¡¡±
He wanted to ask whether the divorce was merely a temporary fix, maybe with ns to reuniteter, or if she was truly done this time. Pride, however, kept the question from his lips. Belinda red at his hand on her wrist, annoyance prickling her skin. ¡°Is there something else?¡±
Kristopher dropped his gaze. ¡°Nothing.¡±
¡°Then let¡¯s go.¡± Belinda tossed the words over her shoulder and stepped inside.
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Kristopher stood frozen for a long moment before exhaling heavily and following her into the courthouse. Divorce had seemed the answer to their troubles, yet now, at the threshold, his certainty wavered. A wave of reluctance washed over him¡ªif he let her go, could he ever win her back?
Outside, Cathy realized Belinda had entered without Kristopher and mistook his hesitation for waiting on her. ¡°Kristopher, I won¡¯t go in with you then,¡± she said gently. ¡°You handle the divorce.¡± She added with false warmth, ¡°I¡¯ll be here, waiting for you.¡±
Her words snapped him back to reality. He released a relieved sigh and forced away his doubts, convincing himself that Belinda would be the one to suffer most from the divorce.
It would be Belinda who felt the distress. Why should he be concerned? Even if he never proposed they remarry, Belinda would surely return to seek reconciliation. With that thought in mind, he squared his shoulders and entered the courthouse.
The buzz around Kristopher and Belinda¡¯s divorce was so intense that other couples stepped aside to let them pass. The staff, eager to keep proceedings running smoothly, hurried them to the front to file. Lacking the agreement drafted by Marc, they proceeded with the terms Belinda had prepared herself.
Belinda chose to walk away with only her personal belongings and her beloved ragdoll cat, Fluffy, leaving everything else behind. ¡°Miss Nelson, are you sure you don¡¯t want anything else?¡± one clerk asked gently, aware of the scandal with Cathy. ¡°Legally, you¡¯re entitled to half of Mr. Cox¡¯s assets acquired during your marriage. Are you certain you wish to relinquish that?¡±
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Chapter 194
?Chapter 194:
Belinda offered a calm smile and nodded. ¡°If I didn¡¯t earn it, I shouldn¡¯t im it.¡± Then, with quiet resolve, she signed the papers.
Seeing her determination, the staff member sighed but said nothing further. Kristopher ced a dismissive check for one hundred thousand before the clerk. ¡°She¡¯s made up her mind. Don¡¯t fuss over it,¡± he said, believing that Belinda¡¯s sacrifice meant they would simply remarryter and that the current split would be undone.
With that assumption, he signed without hesitation. Their marriage certificate was then surrendered and destroyed.
As the document burned in the courthouse safe, Belinda felt a surge of relief. This had been her final wish before she passed away. Now, even if her health failed tomorrow, she would have no regrets.
She gently ced the divorce papers in her bag, stepped outside, and felt a wave of relief wash over her.
Kristopher walked out behind her, holding his own certificate. In a voice meant only for her, he murmured, ¡°Take care of yourself during this time. About remarrying¡¡±
¡°Remarrying?¡± Belinda turned to face him, a sarcastic smile forming on her lips. ¡°Kristopher, who said anything about remarrying you?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s posture shifted uncertainly. ¡°Didn¡¯t we agree before¡?¡±
¡°I don¡¯t remember consenting to remarry,¡± Belinda responded, her smile tinged with irony. ¡°What I actually said was that we could discuss remarriage after the divorce. Now that it¡¯s official, I want to be clear: I have no ns to remarry.¡±
A shadow fell over Kristopher¡¯s face.
Abruptly, he seized Belinda¡¯s wrist, his grip so tight that it threatened to crush her bones. ¡°What are you doing?¡±
Pain contorted Belinda¡¯s expression instantly. She frowned and pulled against his hold. ¡°Kristopher, let¡¯s not pretend I misled you, okay? I was deliberately vague about remarriage because I wanted to avoid furtherplications. You brought it up, and I avoided a straightforward answer. But even if I had outright said I wouldn¡¯t remarry, would it have stopped you from divorcing me?¡±
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She looked up, meeting his gaze with icy resolve. ¡°You were trying to extricate Miss Miller from her predicament, to keep her from being branded a mistress. Was there a better way?¡±
His expression darkened further at her words. Slowly, his grip loosened.
Belinda took advantage of the moment, wrenching her hand free and stepping back to create distance between them.
Kristopher¡¯s lips twisted into a rueful smile as he watched her defensive posture. He inhaled deeply. ¡°If you¡¯re so set against remarrying me, why did you leave without taking anything?¡±
Wasn¡¯t her interest in his wealth more than anything else? Wasn¡¯t that why she married him?
¡°I¡¯ve always said that the money I didn¡¯t earn myself isn¡¯t mine to take. I don¡¯t want it.¡± This update is avable on find{n}ovel
Belinda took a deep breath and smiled as she waved farewell to Kristopher. ¡°Mr. Cox, our paths are separate now. Goodbye.¡±
With that, she turned and walked briskly towards the courthouse exit. Kristopher stood still, watching her depart. Her steps seemed to carry a newfound lightness.
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Chapter 195
?Chapter 195:
Clutching the divorce papers, Kristopher felt a hollow emptiness in his chest, as if something vital had vanished.
Outside the courthouse, as Belinda emerged, reporters flocked to her instantly.
¡°Miss Nelson, why didn¡¯t Mr. Coxe out with you?¡± they asked eagerly.
¡°Miss Nelson, did you and Mr. Cox really get divorced? You didn¡¯t go back on your word, did you?¡±
¡°Miss Nelson, could you reveal how much of the Cox Group¡¯s shares and assets you received in the settlement?¡±
¡°Miss Nelson, what are your ns now¡¡±
Belinda offered a faint smile as she surveyed the reporters gathered before her. There were clearly more journalists here than at Peace Hospital, yet the probing and sharp questions still came from those reporters close to Cathy.
She chuckled and waved her divorce papers. ¡°Kristopher and I are no longer married. Beyond that, noment.¡± Then, she walked briskly toward Allen¡¯s car.
After a few steps, she paused as if a thought had struck her.
Turning back to face the reporters, she announced, ¡°From now on, I am no longer Mrs. Cox. Please, spare an ordinary person like me your gossip. And¡¡±
Her gaze lightly swept over a few particrly zealous reporters. ¡°As for the false rumors you¡¯ve spread about me online, expect awsuit.¡± Her eyes then found Cathy at the back of the crowd. With a pointed look, she added, ¡°And I will certainly not overlook the person who orchestrated your actions.¡±
Perhaps sensing Belinda¡¯s gaze, Cathy turned and shot her a contemptuous look. It was as if she was pointing a finger directly at Belinda¡¯s nose. Unwilling to engage in a pointless argument, Belinda held Cathy¡¯s gaze briefly before turning away and walking towards Allen.
The typically domineering and arrogant young man from the Wilde family now appeared more like a sidekick to Belinda. As she approached, he hastened to the passenger side and opened the door for her, gesturing for her to enter.
Allen had to admit that Belinda¡¯s clean and decisive break with Kristopher that day had earned his respect. For the first time, he viewed her as both cool and dashing, a stark contrast to her petite and slender frame.
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¡°I¡¯m in a good mood today,¡± Belinda announced, her hands in her pockets as she approached Allen. ¡°Do you mind if I drive, Mr. Wilde?¡±
Allen paused for a moment, taken aback, then smiled at her proposal. ¡°Why not?¡± he chuckled.
In full view of the assembled reporters and onlookers, Allen, known for his love of cars, handed his cherished keys to Belinda and settled into the passenger seat of his sports car.
Belinda gracefully gathered her long hair into a ponytail with a hair tie, circled the car, and slid into the driver¡¯s seat. As the crowd watched in amazement, the car roared to life, executed a wless turn, and the red Lamborghini sped off, shooting forward like an arrow.
¡°So cool¡¡± murmured voices from the crowd.
Who would have guessed that a woman who had spent three years as Kristopher¡¯s wife, portraying the role of a dignified housewife in a wealthy family, could handle a car with such skill? Had the road outside the court not been a limitation, she would have demonstrated the full capabilities of the Lamborghini! Readplete version only at F¦ÉndNovel
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Chapter 196
?Chapter 196:
¡°That former Mrs. Cox¡ is actually quite impressive¡¡± someone in the crowd eximed.
Then more voices joined in.
¡°Yeah, she¡¯s nothing like the rumors suggest. She ended her marriage cleanly and decisively.¡±
¡°She drives incredibly well,pletely unlike the indecisive person they described her as.¡±
¡°A woman with such impressive driving skills must be spirited and have a heart longing for freedom. How could she possibly be so calcting?¡±
Kristopher stood at the entrance of the court, his gaze fixed on the receding car as he listened to the surrounding murmurs. His eyes narrowed slightly.
A heart longing for freedom¡
Was that what Belinda sought? Freedom from their marriage? Did she feel shackled by their three years together?
Yet¡
She was the one who had coerced him into marriage while he was incapacitated. She was the one who had covertly relished his wealth and power. She was the one who had boasted of marrying him solely for his fame and fortune.
Now, suddenly, their three-year union was a burden to her? Checktest chapters at FindN()vel
¡°Kristopher!¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice snapped him out of his reverie. She approached, took his arm, and rested her head against it, obstructing his view of Belinda¡¯s departure. ¡°Maggie just messaged me. She wants to celebrate with us and Helen tonight. Are you free?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed, a flicker of irritation in his eyes. ¡°Celebrate what?¡±
Was there really something to celebrate now that Belinda had left him?
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Belinda maneuvered Allen¡¯s car along the city¡¯s circr highway, driving in loops for hours. By the time theypleted several circuits, the clock had struck 3 PM. The early spring atmosphere was ideal, bathed in just enough sunlight to be pleasant.
Pulling over beside the seaside road, she flipped open the convertible¡¯s roof and inhaled the salty sea breeze deeply. For years, she had believed that the end of her long marriage to Kristopher would shatter her. Yet, as the divorce became final, a surprising truth dawned on her. She had been suppressing her true feelings throughout their time together. Rather than sorrow, she felt an overwhelming relief and a thrilling sense of liberation.
Beside her, Allen sat captivated, watching her with newfound interest. Because of the city road speed limits, Belinda didn¡¯t drive as quickly as she had on the racetrack. But her skilled maneuvers brought back the excitement he experienced when he first started racing.
As Allen observed her, his relief was palpable. He was silently grateful for her divorce from Kristopher. Otherwise, he would have only regarded Belinda as a graceful and refined decoration next to Kristopher, not the vibrant and spirited woman she had transformed into.
¡°Is there something on my face?¡± Catching the sharpness of his look, Belinda asked, offering him a yful smile.
¡°Indeed, there is,¡± he responded with a grave tone, his eyes still fixed on her.
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Chapter 197
?Chapter 197:
Surprised, Belinda instinctively touched her face. ¡°What is it? Did I smudge ink on myself signing those divorce papers at the courthouse?¡±
¡°No,¡± Allen chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s the glow of freedom. The sheer joy of escaping the confines of a stifling marriage.¡±
Belinda paused, then erupted inughter. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right,¡± she agreed, sinking into the leather of the car seat. ¡°Stepping away from a doomed rtionship does wonders for one¡¯s spirits.¡±
Her newfound freedom and joy lifted Allen¡¯s mood as well. ¡°So tell me, why did you decide to marry Kristopher in the first ce?¡±
¡°I can¡¯t believe I was so blinded by my own foolishness,¡± Belinda replied.
Allen watched her with palpable relief. He was grateful for her divorce from Kristopher¡ªotherwise, he would have seen Belinda only as a graceful ornament beside Kristopher, not the vibrant, spirited woman she¡¯d be.
¡°Is there something on my face?¡± she asked, catching the sharpness of his gaze and offering a yful smile.
¡°Indeed there is,¡± he said gravely, his eyes still fixed on her. For original chapters go to f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?
Surprised, Belinda touched her cheek. ¡°What is it? Did I smudge ink signing those divorce papers at the courthouse?¡±
¡°No,¡± Allen chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s the glow of freedom. The sheer joy of escaping a stifling marriage.¡±
Belinda paused, thenughed. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right. Stepping away from a doomed rtionship does wonders for one¡¯s spirits.¡±
She closed her eyes, savoring the gentle sea breeze, when suddenly she remembered something important. Reaching into her pocket, she pulled out her divorce papers. Holding them against the backdrop of sky and sea, she snapped a photo and shared it on social media with the caption, ¡°Free atst, no regrets.¡±
Just then, the roar of a sports car engine caught her attention. She turned to see a red Ferrari pulling up alongside Allen¡¯s car. The convertible roof folded back, revealing Madisyn wearing sunsses. Grinning, Madisyn removed her shades and tapped on the door. ¡°I borrowed this shy Ferrari just to celebrate your sessful divorce. How¡¯s that for ir?¡±
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Belindaughed, pocketed her phone, and stepped out of the car.
Allen¡¯s car. ¡°It¡¯s perfect!¡± Madisyn grinned as she spoke.
She turned to Allen with a yful look. ¡°Madisyn¡¯s here to pick me up. I¡¯m going with her now. I owe you a meal sometime soon!¡±
Allen, momentarily taken aback, paused, rubbing his forehead. A hint of helplessness crossed his face. ¡°Did you two arrange to meet here?¡± he asked, assuming Belinda had chosen this spot to enjoy the ocean views with him.
¡°Of course,¡± Madisyn chuckled, clearly amused. ¡°I don¡¯t have superpowers, you know, so we nned to meet here.¡±
She gracefully slid from the driver¡¯s seat and into the passenger side. ¡°Mr. Wilde, you were so attentive to Belinda today. I owe you a proper thank you.¡±
Belinda slipped into the driver¡¯s seat of Madisyn¡¯s car, casually pulling the sunsses off Madisyn¡¯s forehead and wearing them herself. ¡°We should treat him to a meal sometime.¡±
Listening to their easy banter, Allen couldn¡¯t help but grin. ¡°Why not make it today?¡±
¡°I wish we could,¡± Madisyn replied with a yful sigh, propping her chin on her hand. ¡°But you¡¯re booked up.¡±
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Chapter 198
?Chapter 198:
Allen raised an eyebrow. ¡°Booked up?¡±
¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Madisyn said with a subtle smile, clearly enjoying the situation. ¡°Kristopher has reserved a fancy bar in Nawrin tonight to toast his divorce with his friends. You wouldn¡¯t want to miss that, would you?¡±
Allen was taken aback by Madisyn¡¯s words. He instinctively turned to look at Belinda, who was wearing sunsses, concealing her eyes and making it hard to discern her expression. However, Allen sensed that her demeanor remained unchanged. It was as though the man celebrating their divorce was not her husband.
¡°Allen?¡± Noticing Allen¡¯s fixed gaze on Belinda, Madisyn furrowed her brow and whispered, ¡°If you¡¯re not attending Kristopher¡¯s party tonight, we could have dinner instead.¡±
Allen snapped out of his reverie, his expression turning somber. ¡°Perhaps we should reschedule.¡±
¡°That sounds good.¡± Madisyn¡¯s lips curled into a sneer. ¡°After all, you and Kristopher have such a long history. Your bond with him is stronger than with anyone else!¡±
After speaking, she turned to face Belinda with a smile. ¡°Let¡¯s get going.¡±
¡°Take care, Allen!¡± Belinda called out, her smile broadening as she waved to him. The very next moment, the red Ferrari roared to life and zoomed off.
¡°Belinda, you really should keep your distance from him,¡± Madisyn advised from the passenger seat, her tone mocking as she watched Allen shrink in the rearview mirror. ¡°He¡¯s nothing but a deceiver. He clung to you all afternoon, whether it was at the hospital or lingering by the entrance of the court. But the minute he found out about Kristopher¡¯s party, he ditched you without a second thought and didn¡¯t even stick around for dinner. Clearly, he puts his interests above anything else. He values his ties with Kristopher far more than his connection with you!¡±
Belinda kept her eyes on the road as she drove, her response cold and detached. ¡°I¡¯m aware. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve already told him that there¡¯s no chance for us. It¡¯s over.¡±
Waiting at the traffic light, she turned toward Madisyn with a grin. ¡°I¡¯m not naive enough to be duped by those trust-fund kids again.¡±
Madisyn sighed in relief. ¡°Belinda, I¡¯m so d you see it that way. I was really worried.¡±
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Before she could finish, Belinda interjected, ¡°Don¡¯t fret. Allen¡¯s decent, but he¡¯s just not my type.¡±
Elsewhere, by the seaside, Allen was in the passenger seat, his gaze fixed on the rearview mirror.
In it, Belinda¡¯s car shrank to a mere red dot before disappearing altogether.
Furrowing his brow, Allen sighed deeply, circled the car, and then settled into the driver¡¯s seat. As he savored the sea breeze, he checked his phone.
The group chat with his childhood friends was buzzing with talk about Kristopher¡¯s divorce.
¡°Belinda used to throw fits and threaten divorce all the time. Each time, she was the first to back down, and they¡¯d reconcile. Is she serious about it now?¡±
¡°Perhaps she¡¯ll back down again. But things seem to have escted too far. They might end up divorcing before they consider remarrying.¡±
¡°Before, when she caused a fuss and talked about divorce, Kristopher simply shrugged it off. But now that they¡¯re actually divorced, is he going to entertain this drama queen and take her back?¡±
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. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? Find_Novel(.
Chapter 199
?Chapter 199:
¡°If you ask me, Kristopher should seize this chance to cut ties for good and marry Cathy. Get back with Belinda? Not a chance!¡±
¡°I¡¯m putting down five thousand that Belinda won¡¯tst a month before she¡¯s crawling back to Kristopher, begging for forgiveness!¡±
¡°Make that ten thousand on her breaking within two weeks!¡± The group buzzed with spirited debate.
Allen, who had been quietly observing the conversation, finally chimed in with a heavy tone, ¡°I¡¯ll put fifty thousand on the line that Belinda won¡¯t remarry Kristopher.¡±
His words cut through the chatter, silencing everyone.
It was the first time anyone had considered Belinda¡¯s side in the discussion.
Just as the group lingered in an awkward silence, Kristopher, who had remained silent until now, dropped a bombshell.
¡°One million. I bet she¡¯ll remarry me within a week.¡±
Perhaps it was the unexpectedness of Kristopher¡¯s remark that hushed the once lively group chat. Get full chapters from find~novel
After a lingering silence, Elliott, who was always keen to keep things light, posted aughing emoji. ¡°I too bet you two will reconcile within a week.¡±
Once he shared his thoughts, others in the group began to chime in. ¡°Definitely a week, tops. I heard that Belinda didn¡¯t get any assets. Despite her rural roots, she¡¯s livedvishly with the Cox family for three years. If she¡¯s broke now, she won¡¯tst long.¡±
¡°It¡¯s easy to grow ustomed to luxury but hard to go back to basics. She¡¯ll probably crack in a day or two ande crawling back to Kristopher!¡±
¡°Belinda used to stir up drama with ease, but it¡¯s different now with everything out of hand. What¡¯s she nning?¡±
Allen scowled at his screen, thements troubling him.
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The image of Belinda¡¯s indifferent expression as she drove away after the divorce shed through his mind. Compelled, he typed back, ¡°You don¡¯t really know her. What makes you so sure she wants to reconcile with Kristopher?¡±
His message seemed to go unnoticed as the group continued their spective banter about Belinda.
A few momentster, Kristopher replied, ¡°So you mean we don¡¯t know her, but you do?¡±
His words echoed through the group chat, instantly silencing everyone again.
Everyone, regardless of how oblivious they had been before, sensed the tension between Allen and Kristopher.
Meanwhile, Allen¡¯s phone buzzed with a barrage of messages from concerned friends.
¡°Are you out of your mind? They¡¯re divorced now. What are you even saying?¡±
¡°Are you hung up on his ex? Just let it go. It¡¯s well known she¡¯s still into Kristopher. Don¡¯t embarrass yourself!¡±
¡°Why provoke Kristopher? Are you ready to sacrifice your family¡¯s business?¡±
Each message weighed heavily on Allen¡¯s heart, causing it to sink rapidly.
After some time, he took a deep breath and typed a response to Kristopher in the group chat. ¡°I don¡¯t really know her. I was just speaking off the cuff.¡±
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Chapter 200
?Chapter 200:
Despite his feelings for Belinda, Allen knew better than to cross Kristopher and risk his family¡¯s connections with the influential Cox family.
Meanwhile, Belinda was behind the wheel of a red Ferrari borrowed from Madisyn, speeding through the streets. She didn¡¯t head back toward the city center until night had fully descended. Madisyn had already booked a table at a restaurant.
¡°If I didn¡¯t have to drive back tonight, I¡¯d definitely be having a drink with you.¡±
In a cozy restaurant corner, Madisyn sighed deeply, her expression tinged with regret, as she poured tea for Belinda. ¡°Reading the news online these days just depresses me. As a model, I¡¯ve seen the worst of cyberbullying. I¡¯m really worried it might overwhelm you if things keep going this way.¡±
She passed a cup of steaming tea to Belinda, her brows knitted with concern. ¡°But to my surprise, you didn¡¯t let the harsh onlinements get to you. Instead, you turned the situation to your advantage and finally divorced Kristopher.¡±
Belinda epted the tea with a smile, her eyes lighting up. ¡°Turns out it was a blessing in disguise, huh?¡±
Madisyn nodded, her face somber again. ¡°Even after your divorce from Kristopher, the online abuse hasn¡¯t stopped. I wonder if these people are ignorant of the truth or just cruel.¡±
She paused, eyeing Belinda with a furrowed brow. ¡°Do you need me to get mypany¡¯s Inte Public Rtions team involved?¡±
Belinda set her teacup down with a gentle clink, shaking her head. ¡°No need. Let them talk. If they stop now, it won¡¯t be a trending topic when I gather evidence to sue them soon.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. ¡°You¡¯re nning to sue the rumor-spreaders?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Belinda replied, her gaze dropping to the teacup she twirled in her hands. ¡°I put up with a lot as Mrs. Cox, and they mistook me for a pushover. Now that I¡¯m no longer bound by that marriage, I see no reason to hold back.¡±
Madisyn noticed the familiar glint in Belinda¡¯s eyes and could barely contain her excitement. She waved over a waiter and ordered a bottle of wine. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m so happy, Belinda! The real Free is back!¡±
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Belinda managed a wry smile as Madisyn poured them each a generous ss. ¡°I thought you said you would avoid drinking so you could return the car tonight?¡±
¡°This asion calls for a celebratory drink!¡± Madisyn eximed, taking arge gulp. ¡°Besides, you¡¯re the one who can¡¯t drink. You can juste with me when I return the carter. My boss did warn me that the handsome owner wants me to return it personally, but he never said I had to drive it back myself, right?¡±
The wine flowed freely, and soon Madisyn was wiping tears from her eyes. ¡°You were my only friend after Joyce left. But all you cared about was that piece of scum, Kristopher. You quit racing and jewelry design for that bastard. You even stopped hanging out with me! You bottled up your true self to keep the title of his wife, endured his family¡¯s constant bullying¡ I always hated myself for being so useless. I failed to protect Joyce, and I failed you, too. When you had your miscarriage and came to me, saying you¡¯d moved on, I never believed you. I was certain you¡¯d go back to him and I¡¯d end up disappointed by your foolish decisions.¡±
She paused to sip more wine. ¡°Now that you¡¯re officially divorced, I¡¯m so relieved!¡± Th?s chapter is updated by find{n}ovel
Belinda sat back and listened, watching her friendugh and cry as she poured out her heart. It was strange to realize she had never considered how worried Madisyn was about her.
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Chapter 201
?Chapter 201:
Madisyn¡¯s face lit up with renewed determination. ¡°From now on, you are no longer Mrs. Cox! You are my very good friend, Belinda Nelson. We¡¯ll support each other from now on. After we retire, we¡¯ll travel the world together and have new adventures. I¡¯m already giddy just thinking about it!¡±
She reached for another ss of wine and began mapping out their future. Belinda sighed softly, inhaled sharply, and looked away. ¡°Why wait? Are you free in theing days?¡±
¡°Let¡¯s go on a trip right now.¡±
Madisyn paused, cocked her head, and peered at Belinda before breaking into a wide grin. ¡°Oh, there¡¯s no rush! I actually have a huge showing up and need to train with the other models. I¡¯ll probably be busy for the next two months or so. But I¡¯ll take a holiday right after. Let¡¯s have fun and let loose once I¡¯m free!¡±
Belinda closed her eyes for a moment, then raised her head and smiled at her friend. ¡°All right. I¡¯ll wait for you, then.¡±
They continued catching up,ughing and crying over the most ridiculous stories. By half-past ten in the evening, Belinda walked Madisyn home.
¡°Why is she so drunk?¡± Ethel Thomas, Madisyn¡¯s mother, called for the servants to assist her daughter upstairs. She turned to Belinda with an apologetic expression. ¡°She must have indulged herself because of your divorce, am I right?¡±
Belinda chuckled. ¡°Yes, you are. She¡¯s very happy for me.¡±
¡°Belinda,¡± Ethel said, stepping forward to sp her hand warmly, ¡°congrattions on reiming your freedom.¡± The Thomas family was close-knit and weing; Madisyn often confided in her mother, so it was no surprise Ethel knew about Belinda¡¯s troubles with the Cox family.
¡°Thank you, Mrs. Thomas,¡± Belinda replied, about to say more when Madisyn¡¯s drunken voice called from the top of the stairs. ¡°Belinda¡ remember to return the car¡¡±
Belinda turned toward the stairs and nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it and get some rest!¡±
Earlier at the restaurant, when Madisyn was still somewhat sober, she had given Belinda the car owner¡¯s contact details. After reassuring her inebriated friend, Belinda said goodbye to Ethel and left. As she walked back to the car, sheposed a message to its owner.
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She received a reply within seconds¡ªan address for a local bar called Mysterious Night.
Belinda¡¯s brows furrowed as she stared at the location details. If her memory served her right, the bar that Kristopher had booked for the night to celebrate their divorce was also called Mysterious Night¡
But then, it made sense. Anyone driving such a rare red Ferrari was undoubtedly an important figure in Nawrin¡¯s high society. Tonight, Kristopher had booked the entire bar for a celebration, indicating the car¡¯s owner was probably among the guests. Belinda felt a pang of reluctance at the thought. She didn¡¯t want to bump into anyone linked to Kristopher or let it be known she was at the bar celebrating his divorce.
Yet, after much hesitation, she eventually got into the car and headed towards Mysterious Night. When Madisyn had borrowed the car earlier that day, its owner had stressed that it needed to be returned that evening. Madisyn had borrowed this car specifically for Belinda. Despite her intoxicated state, Madisyn had consistently reminded Belinda about the need to return the car, as it was a favor from her boss.
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Chapter 202
?Chapter 202:
Belinda couldn¡¯t allow Madisyn to break her promise because of her. Moreover, she had learned that many of Nawrin¡¯s high society would be at the bar that evening. She nned to drop off the car quickly and leave. Hopefully, she wouldn¡¯t cross paths with anyone from Kristopher¡¯s family. With that thought, Belinda parked the red Ferrari outside Mysterious Night.
¡°I¡¯ve arrived.¡±
After parking, Belinda stepped out and messaged the car owner. The response was swift. ¡°Hold on. I¡¯ll be right out.¡±
¡°Okay.¡±
Belinda had just tucked her phone away when she noticed three people exiting the bar. It was Maggie, Helen, and Cathy. Belinda frowned and instinctively turned away, preferring to avoid a confrontation.
However, the more she tried to stay out of sight, the more inevitable the encounter seemed. Read full story at find{n}ovel
¡°Well, what do we have here?¡± Maggie¡¯s taunting voice rang out from behind her. ¡°What a coincidence.¡±
Belinda¡¯s back tensed. It was obvious that Maggie had recognized her from behind. If Belinda hadn¡¯t nned to return the car, she would have left right away.
¡°Who is that?¡± Helen asked, eyeing the slim figure curiously.
¡°I don¡¯t know her either,¡± Cathy responded with a kind smile. ¡°Since Maggie recognizes her, let¡¯s go and say hello.¡±
The three women approached Belinda. Belinda tightened her fists at her sides, then slowly rxed them. After a brief pause, she turned to face them and smiled.
¡°It really is a coincidence.¡±
Since there was no way around it, she calmly confronted them.
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¡°My goodness! Belinda?¡± Helen¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±
¡°Just here to spoil everyone¡¯s fun,¡± Maggie interjected sarcastically before Belinda could reply. ¡°She must have heard that Kristopher rented out Mysterious Night tonight for a party and decided toe and ruin it for us.¡±
She scrutinized Belinda with contempt. ¡°I suggest you leave before Kristopher spots you. He¡¯s in a great mood tonight, drinking more than usual. If you ruin his evening¡¡±
Her eyes narrowed. ¡°I won¡¯t let you off easy!¡±
Belinda crossed her arms and responded with a cold smile. ¡°Your brother may have rented Mysterious Night, but did he rent the street?¡±
She stepped closer, her gaze sharp and unaffected, meeting Maggie¡¯s. ¡°Remember, I¡¯m no longer a part of your family.¡±
She lifted her chin defiantly. ¡°So, your threats are meaningless to me now.¡±
¡°You!¡± Maggie¡¯s cheeks reddened with fury. She hadn¡¯t anticipated that Belinda would show no respect at all to her in public. ¡°Remember this, Belinda. You¡¯re no longer shielded by the Cox family¡¯s name. Grandfather¡¯s no longer here to cover for you! Without our family, what are you, Belinda? Squashing you would be as simple as stepping on an ant!¡±
Belinda gave a cold chuckle at Maggie¡¯s arrogance. ¡°I look forward to seeing you try, Miss Cox.¡±
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Chapter 203
?Chapter 203:
Pausing, her eyebrows arched with feigned surprise, Belinda¡¯s tone turned taunting. ¡°But before you try anything, shouldn¡¯t I spill your secrets? Like that night you stumbled out of a casino in a mess, or the time you were caught in a hotel with a ssmate and mistaken for something¡ unsavory? Oh, and let¡¯s not forget the fortune you lost in that pathetic online romance scam.¡±
She ticked off each scandal on her fingers with deliberate precision. ¡°Imagine the headlines, Maggie. One juicy story after another, dominating the news for weeks. Wouldn¡¯t that be something?¡±
Maggie¡¯splexion deepened to a furious scarlet. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare,¡± she hissed.
Throughout thest three years, whenever Maggie faced trouble and hesitated to ask Kristopher for help, she¡¯d ring up Belinda. And each time, without fail, Belinda hade to her rescue, keeping her darkest secrets safe. Maggie had gotten used to this, convinced that no matter the mess she found herself in, Belinda would always lend her support without criticism.
Maggie had never thought that Belinda would keep a record of every favor, even maintaining evidence of them. Recently, Maggie had been setting her sights on a career in the entertainment industry. If these scandals came to light, not only would her nascent career be ruined, but she would also be the butt of jokes among Nawrin¡¯s elite.
Witnessing Maggie¡¯s mix of rage and helplessness, Belinda offered a serene smile. ¡°Why would you think I¡¯d hesitate?¡±
Maggie shot her a look filled with loathing but remained silent.
¡°Miss Nelson.¡± Noticing Maggie¡¯s reticence, Cathy lifted her gaze softly and smiled at Belinda. ¡°Surely you didn¡¯te here just to quarrel with Maggie, did you?¡±
Assuming the role of the evening¡¯s hostess, she added, ¡°Since you¡¯ve arrived unexpectedly, might there be something pressing you need to address?¡±
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Just as Belinda was about to answer, a disturbance at the entrance caught their attention. A crowd had formed around Kristopher, emerging from the bar.
Leading the group, Elliott said as they walked, ¡°Indeed, that car is a global rarity. Only my dealership secured one, and I spent ages tracking it down. If it weren¡¯t for the owner of a modelingpany mentioning this afternoon that one of his stunning models needed it and promised to return it herself, I would¡¯ve never let it go.¡± He cast a nce at Kristopher and offered a smile. ¡°Even though we¡¯ve known each other for years and you¡¯ve been a great help to me, I still hesitated to hand it over.¡±
Kristopher responded with a subdued smile. ¡°If you felt so hesitant, why did you let it go?¡±
¡°It¡¯s a different story,¡± Elliott countered, his brow furrowing. ¡°That owner asked to borrow it because we¡¯re close. He mentioned that the model who needed it is not only beautiful but also single. You know how long I¡¯ve been on my own¡¡± Heughed and rubbed his hands together eagerly. ¡°And I heard she¡¯s into racing too. Imagine that. A gorgeous, adventurous woman who might even join me on the track one day! Definitely worth lending my car to meet her, don¡¯t you think? Plus, if she¡¯s passionate about cars, she¡¯ll take good care of it.¡± For more chapters visit f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
Kristopher looked at him with a mixture of resignation and amusement. ¡°If you were nning to sell it to me, you shouldn¡¯t have lent it out to anyone¡¡±
His words trailed off as his gazended on the woman standing by the red Ferrari.
Belinda?
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Chapter 204
?Chapter 204:
What was she doing here?
When Kristopher suddenly froze, Elliott and the others immediately followed his gaze.
¡°Is that¡ Belinda?¡± Elliott blurted out, his eyes widening in shock.
A silent pause hung in the air before he turned to Kristopher, his voice tinged with disbelief. ¡°Kristopher, do you think she¡¯s having second thoughts about the divorce? Maybe she¡¯se to plead for a second chance?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed, yet he remained silent.
The group behind him buzzed with spection. ¡°That has to be it! Everyone knows Mr. Cox reserved the entire bar tonight to toast his new freedom. She wouldn¡¯t show up unless she was looking to make amends.¡±
¡°In our group chat today, we bet she¡¯d regret her decision within a week. Looks like she didn¡¯t even make it half a day!¡±
¡°Too eager, that one. The Cox family really spoiled her rotten. She has some nerve, leaving Mr. Cox like that.¡±
The whispers around him coaxed a smirk from Kristopher¡¯s lips. He had suspected as much.
Belinda wasn¡¯t ready to let go.
Kristopher wondered if her regret was driven by the allure of the Cox family¡¯s wealth and power, or if it was something more personal.
With that lingering thought, he quickened his pace towards Belinda, his entourage trailing closely behind him. As they drew nearer, they finally noticed three women standing alongside Belinda, who until then had been obscured, perhaps by the dim streetlights or simply because Belinda herself shone so brightly.
Belinda¡¯s voice, clear and melodious, cut through the night as they approached. ¡°I¡¯m here strictly for my own reasons.¡±
Maggie snorted derisively. ¡°What possible business could you have here? Clearly, you regret the divorce and havee crawling back to make amends!¡±
L¨»t??¦Ó c§ß¦Á¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?ls.??????
She continued with hostility, ¡°From causing a spectacle at Grandpa¡¯s birthday banquet to stirring up trouble online and dragging Cathy into it, you ended up divorcing. And now here you are, groveling? Just how desperate are you, Belinda?¡±
Belinda fixed Maggie with a frosty look, her tone even. ¡°Maggie, it seems my leverage over you isn¡¯t quite as intimidating as I thought.¡±
Maggie¡¯splexion nched at the reminder of her scandals, and she turned away, defiantly breaking eye contact with Belinda. ¡°You might think you can threaten me with that dirt, but let me warn you. Release it and cross me, and you¡¯ll never be wee in the Cox family again!¡±
Belinda¡¯s sneer was sharp. ¡°That would be a relief.¡±
Maggie clenched her teeth in frustration, eventually falling into silence. Noticing her quiet, Cathy looked troubled and turned to Helen. ¡°Helen, maybe it was a mistake to suggest wee out for some air¡ If I hadn¡¯t, we wouldn¡¯t have stumbled upon Miss Nelson trying to make amends with Kristopher, and Belinda wouldn¡¯t feel this humiliated and quarrel with Maggie. It¡¯s all so ufortable¡¡±
Actually, Cathy had seen the limited-edition red Ferrari parked outside and had purposefully brought Helen and Maggie along to investigate. The car¡¯s sleek design and meticulous detailing showed that it was a car for women.
Through her extensivework, Cathy had learned that Kristopher was purchasing this luxurious car, likely as a present for someone. The sight of the car had sparked her curiosity, prompting her to bring her friends to get a closer look. Find the newest release on f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
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Chapter 205
?Chapter 205:
She hadn¡¯t anticipated encountering Belinda there.
¡°Cathy, what are you saying?¡± Helen responded with concern. ¡°If someone chooses to degrade herself by pleading for a reconciliation, that¡¯s her burden to bear, not ours! Even if we hadn¡¯t seen her, someone else would have.¡±
She couldn¡¯t resist mocking Belinda. ¡°If you knew it would end like this, why go through with it? Why not just remain Mrs. Cox? Now, you¡¯re just embarrassing yourself.¡±
Belinda¡¯s gaze dropped, her fingers nervously twirling the car keys. She endured Helen¡¯s barrage of harsh words in silence. When Helen¡¯s stream of invective finally dried up, Belinda looked up, her eyes steady and calm. ¡°Are you done?¡± she asked, her voice even.
Helen scowled back, her mind scrambling for more venomous words, but none came.
¡°If you¡¯ve said your piece, then it¡¯s my turn to speak,¡± Belinda dered, a faint smile ying at the corners of her mouth. ¡°Do you really think all women are cut from the same cloth as you? That we can¡¯t stand on our own without clinging to power and wealth? Let¡¯s get one thing straight. I chose to leave Kristopher. It was my decision to divorce him. I walked away without a backward nce, and I have no intention of ever seeking a reconciliation.¡±
At that moment, Kristopher stopped dead in his tracks, his eyes shing with icy anger. Elliott shifted ufortably from one foot to the other, caught in the tense atmosphere, his words stuck in his throat. A heavy silence descended upon the group, the air thick with unspoken words. Those friends behind Kristopher held their breath, too wary to utter a sound.
Kristopher¡¯s re intensified, his eyes boring into Belinda as if trying to pierce her soul with his stare.
¡°And yes, it might be true that Kristopher booked this bar for the evening,¡± Belinda continued, her tone dismissive. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean everyone here is on his payroll.¡± Sheughed shortly. ¡°I came here for my own reasons, certainly not to swoon over your esteemed Mr. Cox. Don¡¯t kid yourselves.¡±
With that, she took out her phone and dialed the car owner¡¯s number. It had been nearly ten minutes since she received a message from the car owner. Despite the noisy ambiance of the bar, he should have emerged by now. As she keyed in the number, the sound of a ringing phone pierced the silent night. It wasing from Elliott¡¯s phone.
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At the ring, all four women shifted their gaze toward the sound.
¡°Kristopher!¡± Cathy¡¯s face brightened as she released Maggie and Helen, darting over to Kristopher and grabbing his arm. ¡°When did you arrive?¡± Maggie chuckled.
With a sneer directed at Belinda, Maggie said, ¡°Still pretending you¡¯re not here to beg Kristopher for a fresh start? You¡¯re calling him right before our eyes!¡±
Helen chimed in, her tone dripping with sarcasm, ¡°Belinda, there¡¯s no shame in seeking a reconciliation. But why the pretense? You im you¡¯re not here to beg, yet here you are, dialing his number¡¡±
Belinda furrowed her brow, casting a puzzled nce at Kristopher and the group around him. That ringtone¡ It was unmistakably Kristopher¡¯s usual tone. Yet she knew his number by heart, and this wasn¡¯t it on the caller ID. Could it possibly be¡
The phone kept ringing.
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened with each passing second. Atst, he faced Elliott. ¡°Are you going to pick that up?¡±
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Chapter 206
?Chapter 206:
Elliott was visibly sweating. He had noticed Belinda near the Ferrari earlier but hadn¡¯t made the connection. He assumed she was simply admiring the car, perhaps showing off a bit. Now, with Belinda calling and his own phone ringing, it all clicked. The ¡°stunning model¡± who had returned the car was none other than Belinda herself!
Realizing this, beads of sweat formed on Elliott¡¯s forehead.
¡°Yeah, why aren¡¯t you picking it up?¡± Cathy joined in, her eyes darting to Elliott¡¯s phone, which shared Kristopher¡¯s ringtone. She chuckled. ¡°Is that your girlfriend calling, Elliott?¡±
Elliott wiped the sweat from his brow, clumsily ending the phone call. Meanwhile, a harsh, synthetic voice echoed from Belinda¡¯s phone: ¡°The number you have dialed is busy. Please try againter¡¡± Instantly, Belinda grasped the whole situation.
Madisyn had only been aware that the car¡¯s owner was some affluent figure from Nawrin when she had borrowed it. Little had Belinda expected that this car was actually Elliott¡¯s, who happened to be Kristopher¡¯s lifelong friend.
Though Belinda had encountered Elliott a few times, their connection was superficial. Now, as she watched Elliott cut his call while standing beside Kristopher, her brow furrowed in hesitation, debating whether to return the car.
Elliott had already ended his hurried phone conversation, and by now, Kristopher had deduced the entire scenario. With a derisive snort, he shot Elliott a frosty look. ¡°So, this is the stunning, single model you mentioned?¡± Content originallyes from F?nd-Novel
A flicker of mortification passed over Elliott¡¯s features. ¡°I never imagined it would be her¡¡± He sighed, bowing his head slightly. ¡°Had I known, I wouldn¡¯t have pressed her to return the car right now¡¡±
¡°Return the car?¡± Cathy, ever alert, seized upon the phrase. She had been eager to shift the focus of their conversation toward the car. It was a gift Kristopher had apparently bought for her.
¡°Why not now?¡± she muttered to herself, seeing an opportunity to assert her point in front of Belinda. Despite Belinda¡¯s prowess in racing, what did it matter? Kristopher had chosen to purchase the finest female sports car in the world, not for Belinda, but for her, Cathy!
Lost in thought, Cathy turned to Elliott with a grin and inquired in a gentle tone, ¡°Mr. Russo, which car are you referring to?¡±
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Elliott hesitated briefly before nodding toward the red Ferrari parked nearby. ¡°That one over there¡¡±
¡°That¡¯s a stunning car!¡± Cathy burst out, her excitement palpable as she released Kristopher¡¯s arm and darted toward the vehicle. As she breezed past Belinda, Cathy¡¯s shoulder bumped hard against her.
Given Belinda¡¯s weakened state from her illness, the slight nudge had her teetering dangerously. Kristopher noticed her falter and instinctively stepped forward to help. Meanwhile, a few steps back, Allen noticed as well but hesitated when a friend sped his arm, advising in a low voice, ¡°Stay out of it with her.¡±
Allen stopped, conflicted, but eventually choosing not to intervene. At that moment, a figure d in a server¡¯s uniform went straight for Belinda. It was Fred.
Though Belinda managed to regain her bnce by clutching a nearbymp post, Fred quickly reached her side, his hand gently supporting her shoulder. ¡°Belinda, are you alright?¡± he asked, concern coloring his voice.
The entire incident made Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrow sharply. His expression darkened as he discreetly stepped back.
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Chapter 207
?Chapter 207:
¡°Why are you here?¡± Belinda asked, her voiceced with surprise, steadying herself as she nced at Fred.
¡°I¡¯m working part-time,¡± Fred exined, gesturing to his server¡¯s uniform. ¡°The owner hired extra help tonight ¡ª someone booked the entire bar for a party. It¡¯s a great chance to make some extra money.¡± His smile widened, revealing dimples. Leaning in, he lowered his voice so only Belinda could hear. ¡°Plus, I might get some info on the folks spreading rumors about you online.¡±
Belinda paused, a mix of emotions crossing her face before she sighed. ¡°I appreciate the thought, but focus on your job. Don¡¯t worry about it. Leave that to me.¡±
Kristopher noticed their close exchange, his demeanor growing colder. Feeling the shift in mood, Elliott coughed to break the silence. ¡°Ahem!¡± Belinda took a step away from Fred, putting space between them.
¡°Isn¡¯t this car amazing?¡± Cathy¡¯s excited voice carried over from a distance. She had been eyeing the sleek vehicle with admiration. ¡°I saw it featured online recently. It¡¯s absolutely stunning!¡± She looked puzzled. ¡°Kristopher, do you know who owns it?¡±
Kristopher furrowed his brows, his tone calm. ¡°I bought it.¡±
As he spoke, Maggie and Helen immediately buzzed with excitement.
Helen sped her hands, her eyes sparkling with envy. ¡°Cathy was just admiring this car a few days ago, and now Kristopher¡¯s gone and bought it¡ Is it a gift for her?¡±
¡°Absolutely, it¡¯s for Cathy!¡± Maggie chimed in quickly. ¡°Kristopher has never cared for racing or red cars. Why would he buy such a shy car for himself?¡± Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n find{n}ovel
She crossed her arms and shot a condescending look at Belinda, her eyes full of disdain. ¡°This car is a limited edition¡ªexpensive and rare. Some of Kristopher¡¯s employees have been with him for years and never received anything this grand. And now, right after his divorce, he¡¯s gifting this stunning sports car to Cathy¡¡±
She sneered at Belinda, a smug smile forming on her lips. ¡°Doesn¡¯t that just infuriate you?¡±
With Maggie¡¯s and Helen¡¯s praise, Cathy looked down bashfully. ¡°You two, cut it out! Kristopher hasn¡¯t even said he¡¯s giving me the car yet¡¡±
Maggie burst intoughter. ¡°Then why would he bring it here tonight, if not to give it to you? A divorce present, perhaps?¡±
She shot a knowing nce at Kristopher. ¡°Come on, Kristopher, spill the beans. Who¡¯s the car really for?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened.
Truth be told, ever since he firstid eyes on that car, he¡¯d imagined Belinda in a red racing suit, helmet in hand, her hair flowing as she stepped off the track. After much deliberation, he had made the purchase.
Originally, he had intended to present the gift to Belinda as an olive branch, hoping she¡¯d tire of her adventures ande back to him, suitcase in hand. But now, with their divorce finalized and her firm deration that there would be no reconciliation, that n seemed pointless.
After a few drinks, he asked Elliott to have someone drive the car to the bar, curious to see the expensive vehicle Belinda had rejected. What he hadn¡¯t anticipated was that Elliott had lent the car to someone for racing, nor that Belinda herself would be behind the wheel.
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Chapter 208
?Chapter 208:
¡°Kristopher?¡± Maggie, noticing Kristopher¡¯s attention on the car and Belinda, frowned in disappointment. ¡°Say something. Is this car meant for Cathy?¡±
Snapped back to reality by Maggie¡¯s voice, Kristopher shifted his gaze from Belinda, who stood near Fred, to Cathy, whose eyes sparkled with admiration for the car.
He massaged his throbbing forehead and decided, ¡°If Cathy wants it, she can have it.¡±
¡°Really!?¡± Cathy¡¯s voice was filled with excitement, and at his confirmation, she jumped for joy. She momentarily forgot her status as a ¡°terminally ill patient¡± and sprinted forward with a burst of energy, throwing herself into Kristopher¡¯s embrace. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯m over the moon! This is a limited edition car, not something you can just buy, even if you have the money! You got it just because I mentioned a few times that I liked it! Oh my gosh, I can¡¯t believe this. You treat me so well!¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice quivered with excitement, nearly on the verge of tears.
Belinda watched the disy with a frown.
She hadn¡¯t expected Kristopher to make such an extravagant gesture for Cathy. Moreover, she was taken aback to learn that the car she had been driving all afternoon was meant to be a gift for Cathy.
So disgusting.
Had she known the car¡¯s true owner, she would have much preferred to stay at home, enjoying a coffee and watching TV dramas with Madisyn.
¡°Kristopher, where are the keys?¡± Maggie chimed in, her eyes gleaming as she admired the car. ¡°Let Cathy take it for a spin. It¡¯s such a cool car!¡±
The keys¡
Kristopher¡¯s brow creased, and he instinctively looked towards Elliott, who appeared equally troubled. There was a spare key, but Elliott didn¡¯t have it on him. At the moment, there was only one key avable¡
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¡°The keys are with me,¡± Belinda dered, her expression stern as she pulled the car keys from her pocket and walked over to Kristopher and Cathy, holding them out to Cathy. ¡°Here.¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, and her tone sharpened. ¡°Why do you have my car keys?¡±
Belinda simply turned away without a word, her steps quickening as she tried to leave.
The entire afternoon had been spent driving a car meant as a gift for Cathy from Kristopher, and now her skin crawled with an unsettling prickliness.
¡°Wait a minute,¡± Maggie¡¯s voice halted her after just two strides. She caught up to Belinda, seizing her wrist firmly. ¡°Why do you have the car keys? Did the car¡¯s price tag tempt you to take it, only to bring it back after you were caught?¡±
As Maggie spoke, her certainty in her own assumptions grew. Her eyes narrowed with scorn as she faced Belinda. ¡°You had the nerve toe to this divorce celebration because you were forced to return the car and grovel to Kristopher, didn¡¯t you?¡±
Helen agreed vehemently, ¡°That sounds about right. Belinda has always been so concerned with her image. She wouldn¡¯t face such embarrassment here unless she had no other choice.¡± ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find?novel
Her gaze swept over Belinda¡¯s slender frame with a sneer. ¡°Clearly, she¡¯s here because she was caught stealing and couldn¡¯t escape the consequences.¡±
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Chapter 209
?Chapter 209:
Belinda¡¯s frown deepened at their words, and she quickly shook off Maggie¡¯s grip.
Before she could defend herself, Cathy¡¯s gentle voice cut through the tension. ¡°Maggie, Helen, that¡¯s enough.¡±
She looked at Belinda not with scorn, but with a touch of pity and understanding. ¡°Let¡¯s not forget about Miss Nelson¡¯s humble beginnings. She probably couldn¡¯t resist taking such a nice car out for a joyride. It doesn¡¯t mean she intended to steal it.¡±
Cathy offered Belinda a polite smile. ¡°Miss Nelson, I understand. You don¡¯t need to worry. As long as¡¡±
Her gaze briefly shifted to the car. ¡°As long as the car is intact, it¡¯s all fine by me.¡±
Her seemingly reassuring words carried an undertone that subtly diminished Belinda¡¯s modest upbringing, implying that Belinda might indeed have taken the car without permission. This provided Maggie and Helen with new ammunition.
¡°Yes!¡± Maggie pped her hands eagerly. ¡°We should check for any damage to the car!¡±
Helen nodded vigorously. ¡°Exactly, does she even have a driver¡¯s license? I¡¯ve never seen her behind the wheel!¡±
Maggie gestured for one of her bodyguards to inspect the car, a smirk ying on her lips. ¡°Just because she knows how to drive doesn¡¯t mean she¡¯s qualified to handle a sports car. If there¡¯s so much as a scratch, someone who walked away from a marriage empty-handed couldn¡¯t possibly cover the repairs.¡±
Her words were calcted to undermine Belinda¡¯s dignity. As the bodyguards began examining the vehicle, Cathy maintained a gracious demeanor toward Belinda. ¡°If the car is fine, I won¡¯t ask you topensate, Miss Nelson. However, if there¡¯s any damage, an apology would be appropriate, don¡¯t you think?¡±
Belinda pressed her fingers against her throbbing forehead. Had she known this diversion would follow her divorce celebration, she would have stayed home with Madisyn.
Elliott shifted ufortably. His decision to lend the car without authorization had not only embarrassed Belinda but also threatened his own reputation. He approached Kristopher, who stood apart, his gaze fixed on Belinda with an unreadable expression.
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¡°Kristopher,¡± Elliott said softly, clearing his throat. Read full story at Find?Novel
Kristopher snapped out of his reverie and turned to him with cool detachment. ¡°What is it?¡±
¡°Please check on Cathy and the others. Let¡¯s not drag Belinda any further into this. If anyone is responsible for the car, it¡¯s me. We shouldn¡¯t escte the situation.¡±
Kristopher studied Belinda, who stood with calm resolve, and narrowed his eyes. ¡°Hold on a second.¡±
He wanted to see how Belinda would handle thistest challenge. Just then, one of the bodyguards inspecting the car cried out, ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±
The entire room¡¯s attention was abruptly captured by the unfolding drama. A bodyguard clutched a small ck box, adorned with a blue satin ribbon.
Maggie surged forward, seizing the box from the bodyguard. She turned around, her gaze cold as it fell on Belinda. ¡°What¡¯s this? Why is there a distinctly masculine gift box in the car Kristopher bought for Cathy?¡±
Belinda¡¯s expression soured as she stared at the box. ¡°I have no idea.¡± Earlier that afternoon, Madisyn had been inspecting the car and stumbled upon the box tucked in the glovepartment. Both Belinda and Madisyn had assumed it belonged to the car¡¯s owner and had refrained from touching it again, leaving the glovepartment unopened.
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Chapter 210
?Chapter 210:
¡°Is it possible that Belinda intended to use this to make amends with Kristopher?¡± Helen arched an eyebrow. ¡°The blue ribbon matches the navy suits Kristopher favored. She took his new car right after their divorce, and now a gift box appears in the car. Seems like an attempt at reconciliation¡¡±
Belinda watched the two bodyguards as they finished their inspection of the car, her brow furrowing before she inquired, ¡°Other than this gift box, is there any other damage to the car?¡±
Maggie¡¯s stare intensified at the bodyguards,den with a silent threat.
Exchanging wary looks, the bodyguards hesitated before answering, ¡°The car is in pristine condition, and¡ there¡¯s no damage whatsoever.¡±
¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Belinda said, already turning to leave.
Despite driving earlier, she was confident that it hadn¡¯t caused any damage, but she also thought it reasonable for the car owner to double-check. The box had been in the car from the start and was unrted to her. She found no reason to linger and listen to theirints.
¡°Belinda, wait for me,¡± Fred called out, hurrying to catch up. ¡°I just got off work. Let me walk you home.¡± He shot a cautious nce at the surrounding crowd. ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone bothering you.¡±
Belinda¡¯s initial reaction was to refuse, but she paused, considering. ¡°Okay, there¡¯s something we need to talk about.¡±
She wanted to discuss with Fred the damaging rumors that Kristopher and Cathy¡¯s PR firm had been spreading about her online.
Fred nodded with enthusiasm and quickly returned to the bar to change out of his work clothes.
¡°Leaving so soon?¡± Maggie smirked at Belinda, giving the box in her hand a shake. ¡°Isn¡¯t there something you¡¯re missing?¡±
Belinda shot her a frosty look. ¡°That was already in the car when I borrowed it. It¡¯s not mine.¡±
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Maggie lifted her eyebrows in mock surprise. ¡°Not yours, you say?¡±
¡°Maggie, please, don¡¯tplicate things for Miss Nelson. She¡¯ll never confess,¡± Cathy said with a sigh. ¡°Just give the box back to her. I doubt Kristopher even cares about it.¡±
¡°Give it back? Why would I do that?¡± Maggie retorted with a sneer. ¡°Since she insists it isn¡¯t hers, I might as well see for myself.¡± Smirking, she flipped open the box. ¡°Let¡¯s find out what¡¯s inside!¡± Original content can be found at f¦É¦Ídn¦Ïvel
Belinda peered over, her curiosity piqued.
With a sharp click, the box sprang open, revealing a jewelry case and an envelope.
Maggie clicked her tongue, lifting the lid of the jewelry case with disdain. ¡°Just a pair of tacky rings. Belinda, do you really think you can mend fences with these?¡±
She then tore open the envelope and began reading aloud, ¡°Dear Mr. Cox, it hase to our attention that you purchased this car because Mrs. Cox adores racing. As a token of our appreciation for your passion, we¡¯ve included a set of matching rings for you and your wife. May you enjoy a lifetime of joy together¡¡±
Maggie was joyfully reading the letter aloud when she abruptly halted, sensing something amiss.
The room fell into such a profound silence that the faintest sound seemed amplified.
Cathy¡¯splexion turned ghostly white.
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Chapter 211
?Chapter 211:
She was all too aware that Kristopher had purchased this car just after she and Belinda hadpeted on the racetrack.
The letter praised Mrs. Cox for her outstanding racing skills, a woman clearly not her.
Realization dawned, and Cathy¡¯s hands balled into tight fists at her sides, her eyes glittering dangerously as she red at Belinda.
¡°So, Cathy has a passion for racing too!¡± Helen broke the stifling silence with a cough, remarking, ¡°No wonder Kristopher took her to the racetrackst time.¡±
Maggie quickly came to her senses and followed suit, advancing toward Cathy with a yful grin. ¡°Cathy, you¡¯ve kept your skills a well-guarded secret,¡± she teased, pressing a small box into Cathy¡¯s hands. ¡°This set of rings is for you and Kristopher. They¡¯re really quite lovely!¡±
Cathy¡¯s stern expression eased into a smile as she took the jewelry box. ¡°Yes, they¡¯re quite stunning indeed.¡±
Meanwhile, Belinda couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of amusement watching the scene unfold.
Just moments before, Maggie had dismissed the rings as cheap and tacky, believing Belinda had picked them out. However, upon learning they were a gift from the car dealership to Kristopher and Cathy, her tone shifted to one of admiration. Such hypocrisy.
¡°But¡¡± A timid voice emerged from the crowd behind Kristopher. ¡°The letter mentions that the car and rings belong to Mr. Cox and Mrs. Cox¡ Miss Miller isn¡¯t Mrs. Cox yet, is she?¡±
Cathy¡¯s grip on the jewelry box tightened, her knuckles whitening.
¡°It seems the staff made an error!¡± Maggie quickly countered, her cold stare quieting the questioner. ¡°They probably thought the car was for Kristopher¡¯s fianc¨¦e, hence they addressed it to Mrs. Cox. How were they to know Kristopher had such an audacious ex-wife?¡± And then, with a contemptuous snort, she added¡
coldly, ¡°And you know, Belinda hails from the countryside, right? She once worked as my grandfather¡¯s maid. Since when do maids drive sports cars?¡± She sneered, her nce at Belinda dripping with mockery. ¡°I bet she¡¯s never evenid hands on a race car in her life!¡±
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Her words set off murmurs of agreement throughout the crowd.
¡°Exactly, it¡¯s only someone like Miss Miller, whoes from wealth, who would know how to race. How could Belinda possibly understand anything about it?¡±
¡°I heard she¡¯s so poor that she struggles to make ends meet, juggling multiple jobs to pay for college. When would she ever have the time or money for racing?¡±
¡°For someone like her, just holding a steering wheel is probably a dream, let alone racing¡¡± Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n FindN()vel
Allen listened to the hurtfulments, his fists tightening in anger. ¡°You know nothing about Belinda!¡± he yelled.
Belinda wasn¡¯t just capable of racing. She was the best driver he had ever witnessed.
These people werepletely oblivious to her skills!
His voice boomed across the crowd, drawing all eyes to him, including Kristopher¡¯s cold, scrutinizing stare.
Elliott, recalling the quarrel in the group chat, worried Allen would stir up more problems. He leaned close, cautioning in a hushed tone, ¡°Allen, you¡¯re drunk.¡±
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Chapter 212
?Chapter 212:
Allen¡¯s eyebrows knitted together in frustration.
¡°Fred!¡± Belinda called out, her voice cutting through the silence and halting him mid-sentence.
All eyes quickly shifted from Allen to Belinda.
Fred, having changed from his work attire, now sported a clean, gray hooded sweatshirt paired with matching sweatpants. A backpack hung casually over one shoulder as he approached Belinda. ¡°Belinda, I¡¯m all set.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s head out,¡± Belinda replied, offering Allen a reassuring smile while subtly shaking her head. Without another word, she turned and walked away with Fred.
She was indifferent to the opinions of Kristopher¡¯s friends.
They had never truly epted her, and with her recent divorce from Kristopher, she felt no obligation to justify herself to them anymore.
As Belinda and Fred departed, their silhouettes¡ªFred¡¯s tall, sturdy frame alongside Belinda¡¯s slender, graceful form¡ªpresented a strikingly well-matched picture, even from behind.
Meanwhile, the crowd didn¡¯t hesitate to whisper cruel spections about Belinda.
Kristopher, who lingered among them, watched Belinda and Fred grow distant. His eyes narrowed, his stare turning increasingly cold and forbidding.
After their departure from Mysterious Night, Belinda guided Fred to a 24-hour fast food joint nestled close to her apartment.
¡°Belinda, I was under the impression you were dropping me off at home,¡± Fred remarked with a yful tone of grievance, settling into the seat opposite her. ¡°I never anticipated a fast food detour.¡±
¡°The ce is neat and handy,¡± Belinda replied, a slight smile ying on her lips. ¡°Considering I just went through a high-profile divorce today, you wouldn¡¯t want tomorrow¡¯s headlines to feature you returning home with a newly divorced woman, subject to ridicule by your peers, right?¡±
Fred pouted. ¡°Honestly, they¡¯d probably be green with envy.¡±
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He inhaled deeply, shifting the conversation to a more serious note. ¡°Today, I spent some time getting to know the leaders of that part-time work group. Turns out, the one managing their daily assignments is named Kaya Delgado.¡± He nced at Belinda. ¡°Are you familiar with her?¡±
Belinda¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly as she nodded. ¡°She¡¯s Cathy¡¯s agent.¡±
Fred¡¯s expression turned to surprise, then settled into a frown. ¡°Isn¡¯t Cathy being a bit reckless? Having her agent so involved makes everything trace back to her easily.¡±
¡°Not reckless, just overconfident,¡± Belinda corrected, her fingers idly ying along the rim of her ss. ¡°She believes she can do anything to me without facing any repercussions. She thinks I¡¯ll continue to endure everything quietly, just as I always have.¡±
Previously, Belinda hadn¡¯t wanted to tarnish Anthony¡¯s reputation or the title of Mrs. Cox. Now, as a divorcee, why would she tolerate such burdens?
Fred looked at her with sympathy in his eyes. ¡°Belinda¡¡±
Although Belinda¡¯s tone was light, Fred could tell that she had endured much injustice at the hands of those people.
Disliking the pity in his gaze, Belinda waved dismissively and offered a smile. ¡°It¡¯s all behind me now.¡± This content belongs to ?ovelFind
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Chapter 213
?Chapter 213:
Fred nodded in agreement. ¡°Yes, all behind us.¡±
He then bowed his head and transferred all the gathered evidence to Belinda¡¯s phone.
They remained in the fast food joint, sorting through the evidence and conversing until half-past ten.
Fred faced an eleven o¡¯clock curfew at his dormitory.
Reluctantly, Belinda drove him back to his school.
After parting with Fred, Belinda walked to her apartment alone.
The night air was brisk.
She stretched out her arms, embracing the cool breeze as she walked, filled with a newfound sense of liberation.
¡°Belinda.¡±
As she stepped out of the elevator and unlocked her door, a deep male voice called from behind.
Belinda hesitated, then turned around.
There stood Darren, his posture uneasy.
¡°Darren.¡± With a frown, Belinda shut the door and leaned back against it. ¡°It¡¯ste, Darren. What brings you here?¡±
Darren¡¯splexion faded when he realized she wasn¡¯t inviting him inside. ¡°Well¡ I caught the news,¡± he stammered, extending a jewelry box toward her. ¡°I thought I¡¯d give you this¡ a sort of divorce present.¡±
Belinda made no move to ept it.
¡°Belinda.¡± Darren managed a forced smile. ¡°I get that you¡¯re upset about the cat. That was my fault, but¡¡± He hesitated. ¡°We still need to coborate at the studio. Can¡¯t we at least stay professional? We¡¯ve got your design project to wrap up in three months, remember?¡± Discover more novels at find?novel
At that, Belinda¡¯s stance softened, and she took the jewelry box from his hand. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll ept it. But¡¡± She arched an eyebrow. ¡°When do I start at the studio?¡±
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Darren was taken aback. ¡°You can begin whenever you like, but¡ don¡¯t you think you should take a break?¡± he suggested, mindful of her recent divorce.
¡°There¡¯s no need for a break.¡± Belinda dismissed it with a wave of her hand. ¡°Can I start tomorrow?¡±
Darren paused, visibly surprised, then nodded. ¡°Sure, but¡¡± He hesitated before continuing, ¡°I talked with the leadership today. Your divorce from Kristopher has caused quite a buzz, and with the Cox family venturing into the jewelry market¡¡± He looked at her intently. ¡°To sidestep any potential issues, it might be best if your designs are published under a different name. Are you okay with that?¡±
¡°No problem,¡± Belinda agreed swiftly, not minding this proposal at all.
¡°Just use Joyce Scott for my works from now on.¡±
Darren furrowed his brow. ¡°Joyce Scott¡ Is she someone you know?¡± He recalled hearing the name during his college days, mentioned casually by Belinda and Madisyn.
Belinda stuffed a jewelry box into her bag and buried her hands in her pockets. ¡°She was a close friend. I actually met Madisyn through her back in our university days.¡±
Darren¡¯s eyebrows shot up. ¡°Was she a student at our university too? I don¡¯t remember seeing her with you.¡±
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Chapter 214
?Chapter 214:
In the past, Darren and Belinda had shared a deep, almost romantic bond, nearly crossing the line into a rtionship.
Though he recognized the name Joyce, he had never actually seen Belinda with any other girl except Madisyn.
Belinda let out a deep sigh, burdened by the memories. ¡°She¡ couldn¡¯t go to college because of family issues and hardly ever visited Madisyn and me on campus.¡±
The sorrow and sense of helplessness that had marred Joyce¡¯s expression whenever she spoke of missing out on college still haunted Belinda after all these years.
¡°I am the child born from my mother¡¯s affair. My existence led to her divorce from her first husband and her marriage to my father. After my father died unexpectedly, my mother¡¯s first husband reconciled with her to provide my older half-sister with a stable family. Consequently, I was raised by my maternal grandparents. My mother, feeling indebted to my sister, catered to her every whim. When my sister didn¡¯t pass her college entrance exams and missed out on her dream university, she threw a tantrum. In response, my mother manipted things so that our exam results were switched. My sister attended her dream school, while I was relegated to a lesser institution under her identity. My mother exined it was a debt we owed to my sister.¡± Th?s chapter is updated by F?ndNovel
Back then, the news had left Belinda reeling, unable to offer Joyce any words offort.
Joyce had taken a gulp of her drink and added, ¡°I once believed I was cherished by my mother. It wasn¡¯t until that incident that I realized she valued my sister above all else. That year, I spiraled into depression, indulged in drinking and smoking excessively, and even missed the college entrance exams the following year. I never managed to catch up after that. So, Belinda, I envy you. Despite your own¡¡±
Hardships, you were at least free to chase your dreams and choose your university. Belinda, I know you¡¯re into jewelry design. If we get the chance, let¡¯s join forces and make jewelry together¡¡±
Belinda¡¯s heart ached deeply as she pondered Joyce¡¯s story.
¡°Belinda.¡± Darren¡¯s voice abruptly snapped her back to the present.
¡°Were you and Joyce close?¡±
Belinda raised her eyebrows, her gaze shifting curiously.
¡°Don¡¯t get me wrong,¡± Darren quickly interjected, sensing her reaction. ¡°It¡¯s just that your design is sopelling, it¡¯s bound to catch on. But if you tie it to Joyce¡¯s name, you might face copyright or financial issues down the line.¡±
Belinda paused, considering his words before a reassuring smile crossed her face. ¡°There won¡¯t be any issues,¡± she replied confidently. Four years earlier, a tragic ident had left Joyce in aa, and her family had subsequently moved overseas. Since then, they had vanished from Belinda¡¯s world.
Yet, Belinda clung to the hope that by naming her designs after Joyce, her family might somehow take notice.
At the very least, it would show that someone still remembered and cared about her.
Belinda often found herself wondering about Joyce¡¯s condition. Was she stitose, or had she awakened?
Elsewhere, in a special care facility in Nawrin, the steady beeping of medical equipment filled the room.
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Chapter 215
?Chapter 215:
A pale womany on the bed, her appearance serene, as though merely sleeping.
¡°Joyce,¡± Evelyn whispered, her voiceden with emotion as she tenderly held the woman¡¯s pale hand. ¡°Kristopher has finally divorced that woman. Your sister can now find happiness. You¡¯d be happy for her, wouldn¡¯t you?¡±
Morning at the Cox family residence¡
¡°Belinda¡¡± As the sunlight streamed onto Kristopher¡¯s face, he irritably shielded his eyes. ¡°What time is it?¡± Only silence answered him.
¡°Belinda¡¡±
His mind cleared slowly, and Kristopher remembered that Belinda had long ago moved out of the vi.
They had finalized their divorce just yesterday, an event closely watched by eagerizens.
He rubbed his temples, feeling the lingering ache ofst night¡¯s excesses, and nced at the clock. It was already past nine.
In the days when Belinda was here, she would have roused him gently and brought him honey water to soothe his hangover. Now, the viy empty, its silence amplifying the solitude.
After a moment, he picked up his phone and dialed Marc. ¡°Bring some honey water to my ce.¡±
There was a pause on the other end before Marc responded. ¡°Sir, you got drunkst night and ended up at Riviera Vis?¡±
Kristopher owned many properties, but this vi in Riviera Vis, once their matrimonial home, was one he seldom visited due to his growing disdain for Belinda.
However, since her departure, he found himself drawn here more often. His voice was icy. ¡°Is that a problem?¡±
¡°No, sir, not at all,¡± Marc replied, hisughter tinged with nervousness. ¡°I was trying to reach youst night. I checked all your properties but didn¡¯t think you¡¯d be here.¡± Checktest chapters at f?ndnovel
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Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±
¡°It¡¯s about the design submission you reviewed recently. Remember the one you found impressive?¡± Marc asked.
As Kristopher sat up, the pain in his head red. ¡°I remember.¡±
The Cox Group had long been part of the jewelry sector, yet it struggled with ack of innovative designs, a constant frustration for Kristopher. In response, he recently¡
Kristopher started a new jewelrypany under a pseudonym, aiming to draw in novel talent through numerous design submissions from aspiring creators.
One submission from the Wildfield Design Studio had piqued Kristopher¡¯s interest, and he had tasked Marc with reaching out to them. Amidst his personal tumult, Kristopher had nearly let it slip his mind.
¡°The studio got back to us,¡± Marc stated, his voice carrying a note of gravity. ¡°The designer just joined them today. Theprehensive n you asked for will take some time, but they¡¯ve sent over more of her initial work for your evaluation. I believe you should review it as soon as possible. Also¡¡±
Marc paused, inhaling deeply, his tone now tinged with reluctance.
¡°The designer¡¯s name might ring familiar.¡±
Kristopher stood up from the bed, his expression tightening. ¡°What is the name?¡±
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Chapter 216
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There was a slight pause on the line before Marc continued, ¡°Her name is Joyce Scott.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s hand clenched around the phone. ¡°Joyce Scott?¡±
Memories flooded back of the time when Cathy and Joyce had cared for him during his blindness. Joyce had often spoken passionately about her ambition tounch a jewelry venture with her sister.
Joyce had passed away four years ago, and now another woman bearing her name had surfaced in the same industry.
¡°Yes,¡± Marc added, his voice hesitant. ¡°It¡¯s the same as Miss Miller¡¯s half-sister who died four years ago. It¡¯s possible this designer knows ¡ª thepany is yours and is using Ms. Scott¡¯s name as a way to test you. Do you want me to investigate further?¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? findnovel
Thirty minutester, Marc rushed to the vi with the design drafts and honey water in hand.
Upon entering, he found Kristopher reclining on the couch, eyeing several pieces of jewelry spread out on the coffee table.
¡°Sir,¡± Marc said, walking over to the dining table to pour the honey water from the thermos. He looked around the room curiously. ¡°Miss Miller isn¡¯t here?¡±
Kristopher shifted his attention from the jewelry and shot Marc a cold stare. ¡°Why would Cathy be here?¡±
Marc hesitated, confused. ¡°Last time I was here, she was¡¡±
Thest time he had visited to deliver Fluffy to Belinda, he had distinctly seen Cathy moving into the vi, taking on the role of its new mistress.
¡°I¡¯ve made arrangements for her to stay somewhere else,¡± Kristopher said, clearly annoyed, as he walked toward the dining table. ¡°It¡¯s not appropriate for her, being an unmarried woman, to live in a home I frequently upy.¡±
Only then did Marc realize that there were no signs of Cathy in the vi. The decor had shifted back from a girlish pink to the creamy wood tones that Belinda had favored.
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Even therge portrait of Cathy in the living room had been swapped for a wedding photo of Kristopher and Belinda.
In the picture, Kristopher appeared serious, while Belinda was nestled against him, her smile warm and radiant.
Marc furrowed his brow. ¡°Sir, this photo¡ Should I take it down?¡± Considering Kristopher and Belinda were divorced, disying their wedding photo seemed out of ce.
Kristopher responded indifferently, ¡°Removing it would just mean hanging it againter. Do you really want that hassle?¡±
Marc paused, understanding that Kristopher was suggesting Belinda mighte back seeking to reconcile.
He scratched his head, feeling awkward. ¡°That¡¯s¡ True. Madam often threatened to divorce and would leave home. Whenever you ignored her, she would return, apologize, and feel embarrassed. It¡¯s just that this time, it seems more serious.¡±
Upon hearing this, Kristopher felt somewhat relieved.
He looked down, sipping the honey water slowly as he examined the design sketches Marc had brought over.
These sketches were polished versions of earlier drafts.
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The new designer, credited as Joyce Scott, appeared highly skilled. She had carefully implemented all the feedback he had provided on the preliminary designs, finishing them to an excellent standard.
¡°Sir,¡± Marc cleared his throat, noticing Kristopher¡¯s attention was captured by the sketches. ¡°Her name is Joyce Scott, and that piqued my curiosity. I reached out to Wildfield Design Studio on the way here to ask about her. They described her as quite mysterious. She¡¯s officially part of the studio, yet she hasn¡¯t shown up for work. However¡¡± He paused. ¡°She made a single request: toplete the jewelry within three months. That¡¯s practically unheard of. In Nawrin, only firms with major corporate backing and swift operations can meet such a deadline, which is why they approached our newpany.¡±
Kristopher narrowed his eyes, impressed by the designs. ¡°Did you find out why she needs it done in three months?¡±
¡°I asked,¡± Marc hesitated. ¡°The reason they gave was somewhat questionable. They told me the designer is terminally ill and has only three months to live. She wants to see her designs hit the market before she passes, hence the urgent timeline¡¡±
Kristopher¡¯s hand stopped moving over the sketches. ¡°A terminal illness, with just three months to live?¡±
He scoffed. ¡°This designer is really going the extra mile for publicity. Joyce has been dead for four years, and now suddenly they im she has a terminal illness?¡±
Setting the sketches aside, he said, ¡°Set up a meeting. I want to meet this designer in person.¡±
¡°Belinda, are you awake yet?¡± At eight in the morning, Darren was right on time, knocking on Belinda¡¯s door. The door swung open almost immediately.
There stood Belinda, her hair now cropped short, wearing a casual blush pink outfit.
Sunlight poured over her freshly cut hair, giving her an air of freshness and vitality.
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Darren paused, taken aback by the change.
It took him a moment to find his words. ¡°Did you¡ cut your hair?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Belinda answered, her smile bright. ¡°I decided on a change after you leftst night. I did it myself for my first day at work.¡±
She yed with the ends of her hair, looking a bit uncertain. ¡°Does it look alright?¡±
Darren nodded enthusiastically. ¡°Belinda, you look like you could have a second career as a hairstylist.¡±
¡°I think I¡¯ll stick with jewelry design for now.¡± Belinda chuckled, closing the door as they both made their way to the elevator. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go.¡±
Belinda¡¯s workce was in the same building as Darren¡¯s studio. Now, Darren was not only a former university peer but also her mentor at the studio.
Despite his previous blunders, Belinda knew Darren meant well and had decided to put the past behind her.
As she approached the elevator, Darren snapped out of his daydream and rushed to join her. ¡°Belinda, have you eaten yet? I picked up something for you to snack on during ourmute¡¡±
Thirty minutester, they reached the front doors of Wildfield Design Studio.
It was Belinda¡¯s first day, and Darren¡¯s initial duty was to introduce her to their boss.
They knocked and entered the office sequentially, catching their boss mid-conversation on the phone, his tone excessively deferential. ¡°You¡¯re saying the head of yourpany wants to meet Miss Scott? Absolutely, she just joined us today and is avable whenever. Please, just let us know when you want to set up the meeting. Yes, we¡¯ll keep in contact!¡±
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Chapter 218
?Chapter 218:
After he hung up, their boss turned to greet them with a wide grin.
Darren quickly took a step forward. ¡°Mr. Moreno, I¡¯d like to introduce¡¡±
¡°No need for introductions. I¡¯m already aware of Miss Nelson¡¯s recent coverage,¡± Rnd Moreno interjected, his sharp gaze belonging to a cunning, balding man in his mid-fifties.
He gestured towards Darren and then smiled warmly at Belinda. ¡°Miss Nelson, you¡¯ve been making headlines recently. It¡¯s wonderful to finally meet you! You¡¯re even lovelier in person than in the photos!¡±
A touch of color rose to Belinda¡¯s cheeks as she epted thepliment. ¡°Mr. Moreno, I¡¯ve finished my onboarding. I¡¯m officially part of the team now, so please, assign me any tasks you have.¡±
Rndughed heartily. ¡°There¡¯s no urgent work at the moment, yet there is one task that demands your attention.¡±
He ryed the details of a recent phone conversation andplimented Belinda once more. ¡°Out of many entries, they chose your design and even requested a meeting with you, which really highlights the quality of your work! Theirpany is supported by a significant international corporation. Completing this project could really elevate our studio¡¯s reputation.¡±
He handed her a cup of coffee. ¡°Miss Nelson, we¡¯re relying on you.¡± He paused, then added, ¡°As Darren may have mentioned, given the recent press coverage¡ Your designs will be credited to Joyce Scott, and you¡¯ll need to keep your identity hidden.¡± Rnd looked at her intently. ¡°Are you okay with that?¡±
Belinda nodded as she took a sip of her coffee. ¡°I am.¡±
Her aim was to design jewelry, not to chase fame. She simply desired to bring her creations to life during the time she had left.
Rnd visibly rxed upon hearing her agreement. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Once this media stir dies down, you¡¯ll be able to im credit for your work.¡±
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He offered further reassurance to Belinda, ¡°There¡¯s no need to be anxious. Thepany¡¯s boss has a packed schedule, and the meeting isn¡¯t for another three days. You¡¯ll be¡¡±
Suddenly, a voice cut him off. ¡°Something¡¯s wrong!¡± A person burst into the office, their expression etched with panic. ¡°There¡¯s a major problem!¡±
¡°Ansell Cooper, the coordinator for the fashion magazine¡¯s photoshoot, hase down with severe food poisoning and couldn¡¯t make it today. The magazine has made it clear they won¡¯t take responsibility for our jewelry without someone there to oversee things, and we¡¯re already short on staff¡¡±
The person looked overwhelmed. ¡°What do we do now?¡±
¡°I¡¯ll handle it,¡± Belinda dered, her brow furrowing as she turned to Rnd. ¡°I can¡¯t make any changes without the client¡¯s detailed n. With everyone else tied up, it makes sense for me, even though I¡¯m the newest here, to go.¡±
No one raised any objections.
Resolved, Belinda caught a taxi to the photoshoot location.
To her surprise, as she got out of the taxi, she immediately bumped into Maggie and Cathy, both extravagantly dolled up.
Belinda wasn¡¯t sure if her dramatic new haircut had rendered her invisible or if Cathy and Maggie simply didn¡¯t notice her as they breezed past, deep in conversation. N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on Find1Novel
¡°Cathy, when will you take us for a spin in that Ferrari?¡± Maggie inquired.
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¡°There¡¯s no hurry. We¡¯ll go for a ride after Kristopher and I get engaged,¡± Cathy answered.
¡°Oh, that¡¯s right! Kristopher¡¯s proposing in two days! He¡¯s kept it so under wraps that he hasn¡¯t breathed a word to anyone¡ I almost forgot!¡±
¡°Kristopher probably wants it to be a surprise. I¡¯m not rushing things. As long as he¡¯s finally divorced, I¡¯m fine with waiting to get engaged or married.¡±
¡°But Kristopher seems to be in a hurry; he finalized his divorce yesterday just to stay on track for the engagement. Aren¡¯t you thrilled?¡±
¡°I am, of course¡¡±
Their conversation trailed off as they walked away.
Rubbing her temples, Belinda hefted the box she had fetched from the studio and headed towards the photoshoot site with determined steps. It felt like some harsh twist of fate was mocking her.
Cathy and Maggie had just arrived from the exact location Belinda needed to be.
It was clear from the circumstances that they were the headliners of today¡¯s photo session, with Belinda tasked to assist by providing jewelry.
Had Belinda been aware of this beforehand, she wouldn¡¯t have proposed to take on this task.
However, finding herself already at the venue, she resolved to see it through.
¡°Are you the jewelry assistant from Wildfield Design Studio? Your team is always sote!¡± a production assistant berated Belinda as she entered. ¡°Do you even realize who¡¯s wearing your studio¡¯s pieces today? It¡¯s the celebrity sensation Cathy Miller and her boyfriend¡¯s sister, Maggie Cox! Normally, they wouldn¡¯t be caught dead in your designs, yet here they are, doing a favor for the magazine, and you¡¯ve kept them waiting!¡± Get full chapters from Find_Novel(.
Belinda absorbed the reproach with patience, then responded with a soft smile, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. Where should I set up the jewelry? When does the shoot begin?¡±
The assistant¡¯s frustration waned at herposed response and courteous inquiry. ¡°Over there, get everything ready.¡±
Guided by his instructions, Belinda made her way backstage to organize the jewelry with the help of the wardrobe team.
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Soon enough, Cathy and Maggie were back, and the preparations for the shoot kicked off in full swing.
To sidestep any potentialplications, Belinda slipped on a baseball cap and mask, seamlessly merging with the surroundings. Throughout the filming that day, she remained unnoticed.
As dusk settled, she breathed a quiet sigh of relief, satisfied with the uneventful day.
However, she hadn¡¯t anticipated Kristopher¡¯s visit to the set.
At that moment, Belinda was delicately undoing the sp on Cathy¡¯s ne when Kristopher appeared.
¡°Kristopher!¡± Cathy eximed, her face lighting up at the sight of him. She stood abruptly, eager to greet him.
Caught off guard by Cathy¡¯s sudden movement, Belinda was still holding the ne.
¡°Ah!¡± Cathy cried out as the chain tightened unexpectedly around her neck, causing her pain.
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¡°What the hell are you doing?¡± Maggie yelled, dashing toward them. She raised her hand, poised to strike Belinda.
Belinda rxed her hold on the ne, pondering how to apologize without revealing too much. Just then, Maggie raised her hand to strike her.
As Maggie¡¯s hand neared her face, Belinda, caught by surprise, instinctively shut her eyes.
However, the expected p never came.
After a pause, Belinda cautiously opened her eyes.
In front of her, Kristopher was gripping Maggie¡¯s wrist, his brow furrowed, and said, ¡°Maggie, don¡¯t be impulsive.¡±
He then addressed the staff member with short hair and a mask. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. My sister tends to overreact.¡±
After he spoke, he noticed the woman seemed vaguely familiar. He furrowed his brow once more. ¡°Have we met before?¡± Inside, Belinda mocked the situation silently.
They hadn¡¯t merely met.
They had lived together for three years. Now, on the first day of their divorce, he failed to recognize her behind the mask.
¡°Why are you apologizing to her?¡±
Maggie wrenched her wrist from Kristopher¡¯s hold and red at Belinda. ¡°Didn¡¯t you notice she injured Cathy? She needs to be disciplined!¡±
¡°Maggie,¡± Cathy said softly. ¡°Kristopher is considerate. Let¡¯s drop it.¡± As she spoke, she touched her neck, where the ne had tightened. ¡°It¡¯s not painful. I¡¯m okay. But¡¡±
She took out a mirror and inspected her neck. ¡°Does my neck look a bit red?¡±
¡°It does!¡± Read full story at F¦Énd£Îovel
Maggie leaned in for a closer look at Cathy¡¯s neck and said, ¡°You almost bled!¡±
Belinda quirked an eyebrow and nced at Cathy¡¯s neck without even thinking about it.
Cathy was exaggerating. There was just a faint red mark.
If Cathy were to lookter, the mark might have vanished.
She was clearly overreacting.
¡°Don¡¯t you realize how crucial an actress¡¯ image is?¡±
Seeing the mocking in Belinda¡¯s eyes, Maggie instantly grew furious. She stormed toward Belinda, her hand raised to p her again. ¡°You didn¡¯t even apologize to Cathy. How dare you re at her like that?¡± Yet again, the p never reached Belinda¡¯s face.
This time, it was Belinda herself who caught Maggie¡¯s wrist in her grasp.
She looked at Maggie with an icy stare. To keep her identity hidden, Belinda lowered her voice and said sharply, ¡°I was merely doing my job. It was Miss Miller who moved while I was untying the ne, causing herself to get hurt.¡±
Belinda then forcefully released Maggie¡¯s wrist. For the sake of herpany, sheposed herself and said, ¡°Miss Miller, I apologize for being slow to remove your ne and taking up your time. But it was not my intention to hurt you.¡±
After her apology, she approached Cathy and offered, ¡°I can remove the ne for you in one minute.¡±
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Chapter 221
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¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡±
Before Belinda could get close, Cathy recoiled in rm and sought refuge in Kristopher¡¯s embrace. ¡°Stay away from me!¡±
After she spoke, she lifted her tear-filled eyes to Kristopher and pleaded, ¡°Kristopher, I don¡¯t want her to touch the ne¡ Can you do it? She has already hurt me once.¡±
¡°Okay.¡±
As Kristopher gently removed the ne from Cathy, he nced at the woman with short hair and felt she looked increasingly familiar. Once he had removed the ne, he examined the small tag on it and raised his eyebrows. ¡°Are you with Wildfield Design Studio?¡±
Belinda paused for a moment, then nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±
He held the ne in his hand, studying it. Then he smiled. ¡°Do you know a designer whose surname is Scott?¡±
The designer with the surname Scott?
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed. The first name that came to mind was Joyce Scott.
Yet, she quickly doubted such a coincidence.
Even though the Cox Group operated in the jewelry sector, they typically showcased works from well-known designers, owing to their reputation.
For someone new and unknown like her, any submission to the Cox Group would likely end up discarded like trash.
Could there be another designer named Scott at Wildfield Design Studio?
With that thought, Belinda lowered her voice and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ve only just started at the studio. I don¡¯t really know my colleagues yet.¡±
¡°So you¡¯re a newbie,¡± Maggie sneered. ¡°That exins theck of professionalism.¡±
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¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±
Trying to preserve her new job and the studio¡¯s reputation, Belinda contained her frustration and offered a meek apology. ¡°My mistake at work caused an unpleasant experience for both of you.¡± Content originallyes from find{n}ovel
She then eyed the ne in Kristopher¡¯s hand and added, ¡°Mr. Cox, I¡¯m due to finish work now.¡±
She subtly urged Kristopher to hand back the ne quickly.
Observing the woman with short hair who covered her face thoroughly, Kristopher felt a growing sense of familiarity.
She hadn¡¯t spoken before, but something about her seemed known. Now, hearing her speak, though her voice was unrecognizable, her tone¡
It reminded him of Belinda.
Furthermore, her slim build and the rity of her eyes were just like Belinda¡¯s¡
Suddenly, he was struck by the illusion that the woman before him was indeed Belinda.
But that seemed impossible.
Ever since he¡¯d known Belinda, she had long hair.
While he was in aatose state, she had told him one of her best friends hadplimented her long hair as her most beautiful feature. After her friend fell into aa, they lost touch. She didn¡¯t know if her friend would ever awaken, but she¡
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Chapter 222
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vowed to keep her hair long. She had refrained from cutting it short, fearing her friend would not find her as beautiful if she ever saw her again.
Moreover, justst night, she still had long hair tied back in a lively, pretty ponytail¡
¡°Kristopher?¡±
Noticing that Kristopher was lost in thought while looking at the jewelry assistant, Cathy turned, her dissatisfaction clear, and grasped his arm. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡± This snapped Kristopher back to reality.
The masked woman before him was bowing slightly and extending her hand towards him, signaling for him to return the ne.
He scrutinized her again, his expression troubled.
She still seemed eerily familiar to him.
Holding the ne, he peered into Belinda¡¯s eyes and asked, ¡°Are you sure we haven¡¯t met before?¡±
Belinda grew frustrated.
Kristopher started to suspect who she was.
Trying to keep her cool, she began, ¡°We¡¡±
¡°Belinda!¡±
Suddenly, a worried male voice called out from afar. The source of th?s content is FindN()vel
It was Darren.
A wave of dread washed over Belinda.
Before she could respond, Darren hurried over and swiftly positioned himself in front of her, shielding her with his body.
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Ansell from the studio was usually in charge of overseeing the shooting site.
Typically, Ansell would have been home by this time.
However, today, as work ended, Belinda hadn¡¯t appeared yet. Darren was concerned and hurried to the photoshoot site.
To his surprise, upon entering, he found Kristopher, Cathy, and Maggie giving Belinda a hard time!
He looked up at the three people angrily and confronted them, ¡°Mr. Cox, Belinda has divorced you. Why are you here at the photoshoot site harassing her?¡±
Maggie¡¯s eyes instantly widened in shock. ¡°Is she Belinda?¡±
Hearing Maggie¡¯s question left Darren speechless.
He instinctively turned to look.
He was surprised to see that Belinda, standing behind him, was disguised with a peaked cap and a mask.
It turned out that¡
The woman¡¯s eyes conveyed frustration and helplessness.
She had dealt with Cathy and Maggie¡¯s antagonism all day and was just about to leave the office when her shift ended.
She hadn¡¯t anticipated¡
¡°It turns out that the assistant who¡¯s been attending to us is Miss Nelson?¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes widened in astonishment.
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Chapter 223
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She nced at Belinda, then at a stunned Kristopher, and said, ¡°That exins why Kristopher thought she looked familiar.¡±
Eyeing Belinda¡¯s short hair, Kristopher asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you promise your friend you wouldn¡¯t cut your hair?¡±
If not for her short hair, he might have recognized her sooner.
Belinda took a deep breath.
With her identity revealed, there was no point in pretending any longer.
She removed her hat and mask, showing her lean, sharply contoured face. ¡°She hasn¡¯te to see me in four years. I don¡¯t want to keep my long hair anymore.¡±
When Cathy heard Kristopher mention Belinda¡¯s friend and the ¡°four years,¡± she gripped Kristopher¡¯s arm tighter, her face losing color. But she quickly regained herposure and, with a forced smile, changed the subject. ¡°Miss Nelson, you look lovely with short hair.¡±
Kristopher narrowed his eyes at Belinda.
Before, she was always seen in elegant, expensive dresses, her long hair adding to her demure appearance.
But now, dressed in pink casual wear with her short hair and angr face, she appeared cool, somewhat intellectual, and liberated.
Indeed¡ She looked even more beautiful than before. ¡°It¡¯s really you.¡±
As Kristopher¡¯s gaze lingered on Belinda, Maggie voiced her displeasure, saying, ¡°No wonder you deliberately hurt Cathy when you were taking off the ne. You are targeting Cathy, using your position to harm her because you hold a grudge.¡±
Belinda stared at Maggie with a sharp gaze. ¡°Do I need to repeat myself? Miss Miller moved while I was assisting her with the ne, and that¡¯s how she got hurt. I have already apologized.¡±
She walked past Darren, who was standing in her way, approached Kristopher, snatched the ne from his hand, and dered, ¡°I¡¯ve been at your service all day, handling delicate areas like your neck and ears. If I had any intention of retaliating against you publicly, you wouldn¡¯t still be unharmed.¡±
With that, Belinda turned, carefully ced the ne back in its box, and said, ¡°Darren, we¡¯re leaving.¡±
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Snapping back to reality, Darren nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±
Before they left, he threw a cold look toward Kristopher and Cathy, saying, ¡°Had I known you¡¯d be here at today¡¯s magazine shoot, I wouldn¡¯t have let Belindae!¡±
Kristopher found Darren¡¯s protective stance somewhat amusing. ¡°I thought Rnd Moreno was the boss of the studio. When did you be the boss here?¡±
Darren¡¯s expression darkened at thement. Read full story at
He clenched his fists and retorted, ¡°I may not own the studio, but as a long-standing employee, I won¡¯t let my friend be mistreated. That gives me a right to defend her.¡±
¡°Is that so?¡±
With a sneer, Kristopher picked up his phone and dialed a number. ¡°Let¡¯s arrange for Wildfield Design Studio to provide all jewelry for Cathy and Maggie at public events. Make sure the new assistant, Belinda, is assigned to them, or we¡¯ll end the partnership.¡±
He then set down the phone and looked disdainfully at Darren. ¡°Do you think Rnd will agree to that?¡±
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Darren clenched his fists. ¡°You¡¡±
¡°I will ask Rnd for a pay raise,¡± Belinda interjected with a note of indifference. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Cox, for providing such an excellent opportunity to the studio.¡±
As soon as she finished, she reached out and took Darren¡¯s arm. ¡°Come on, Darren. Let¡¯s leave.¡±
Struggling to control his anger, Darren couldn¡¯t afford tosh out at someone with Kristopher¡¯s elevated status. He merely red at him, turned, and exited with Belinda.
As they walked away, Darren voiced his concerns. ¡°Belinda, after your divorce and giving up all the shared property, why would he do this to you? I must call Rndter and ask him to rescind his order. Or perhaps I should introduce you to other studios. It¡¯s better to stay away from all this.¡±
Their conversation faded as they moved further away.
Throughout the entire ordeal, only Darren¡¯s words filled the air; Belinda remained silent.
Meanwhile, Kristopher stood motionless, watching their distant figures with a slight frown, an unexined irritation gnawing at him.
¡°She just divorced my brother, and now she¡¯s already close with another man,¡± Maggie scoffed. ¡°It seems she was quite close to Darren even before the divorce. Perhaps the rumors are true. Maybe the child she lost was Darren¡¯s.¡±
¡°Maggie!¡± Kristopher snapped sharply.
At his reprimand, Maggie pressed her lips together and said no more.
¡°It¡¯s disappointing, isn¡¯t it?¡± Cathy remarked, her tone soft yet carrying a trace of subtle satisfaction. ¡°After her divorce, Miss Nelson now finds herself working as a mere assistant in a small jewelry firm.¡±
Sighing, she turned her gaze to Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher, do you really expect Maggie and me to publicly wear jewelry from this studio? It¡¯s hardly renowned within the industry. I worry¡¡±
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Kristopher redirected his attention from the departing figures and replied earnestly, ¡°This studio has a keen eye for design. Moreover, a new jewelrypany of mine is nning a coboration with them. It would be beneficial for the partnership if you and Maggie wore their pieces.¡±
Cathy paused, absorbing his words, then smiled slightly. ¡°So, wearing this studio¡¯s jewelry would indeed support your business venture, wouldn¡¯t it?¡± Newest update provided by FindN0vel
¡°Yes.¡± Kristopher nodded.
Cathy smiled, leaned her head against his arm, and the two walked out of the photoshoot site arm in arm. ¡°Kristopher, as long as it helps you, I¡¯m willing to do anything!¡±
¡°You two are so sweet!¡±
Maggie pressed her lips together and held back. ¡°You two go have a date. I¡¯m going to hang out with Helen!¡± After saying this, she waved, turned, and left.
¡°Kristopher,¡± Cathy began, clutching his arm and clinging to him like a ko. ¡°Why do you suddenly have time to pick me up today? Aren¡¯t you swamped with work?¡±
Kristopher just smiled faintly, choosing not to answer right away.
It wasn¡¯t until they had left the photoshoot site and gotten into the car that he turned to Cathy with a frown. ¡°I came to see you because it involves Joyce.¡±
At the mention of Joyce, Cathy¡¯splexion turned pale.
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Chapter 225
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She bit her lip and asked, ¡°Joyce has been gone for four years. Why bring her up now?¡±
¡°Do you still remember Joyce mentioning she wanted to start a jewelrypany with you?¡±
After a moment¡¯s hesitation, a flicker of panic crossed Cathy¡¯s eyes. ¡°Really?¡±
No wonder Belinda found herself working in the jewelry design studio after her divorce.
It turned out she and Joyce had made ns tounch a jewelry business.
¡°Yes.¡±
Massaging his aching temples, Kristopher spoke in a low, hoarse voice. ¡°Perhaps you don¡¯t recall Joyce discussing this with me.¡±
Back then, Kristopher had suffered an eye injury, and Cathy hade to his rescue.
Simultaneously, Cathy had hurt her throat, which reduced her speech to mere whispers.
He found it painful to hear her strain her voice, so he often discouraged her from speaking.
Kristopher was blind, and Cathy was mute. Among them, only Joyce was loquacious.
Joyce had once revealed that Cathy hadn¡¯t pursued a degree in jewelry design due to certain circumstances. She believed Cathy would eventually study jewelry design and join her in running apany. At that time, Kristopher had promised to establish thepany alongside them.
Upon his return to the Cox family, the first initiative he undertook was to set up a jewelry branch within the Cox Group.
However, when his sight was restored and he reunited with Cathy and Joyce, he discovered Joyce had died, and Cathy appeared to have forgotten their entrepreneurial dreams.
Today, seeing the name Joyce Scott listed under the designer¡¯s column triggered these old memories.
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¡°I had many aspirations when I was younger,¡± Kristopher murmured, lost in thought.
Noticing his distraction, Cathy cleared her throat and said, ¡°Joyce and I were quite close, so I shared every idea with her. It¡¯s surprising she remembered everything and mentioned it to you.¡±
With an awkward smile, Cathy continued, ¡°I nearly forgot about my ambition to establish a jewelry business.¡±
Kristopher exhaled deeply. ¡°I saw someone in the jewelry design field named Joyce.¡±
He fixed his gaze on Cathy and inquired, ¡°Did Joyce have any friends who were into jewelry design while she was alive? Besides you, did anyone else know about her desire to start a jewelry business?¡±
Caught off guard, Cathy struggled to respond.
Truth be told, her rtionship with Joyce was far from cordial. Checktest chapters at find(?)ovel
That woman had no right to converse with her as if they were sisters. How could Cathy possibly know Joyce¡¯s friends or who was privy to her dreams?
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Chapter 226
?Chapter 226:
Except maybe Belinda¡
Reflecting on this, Cathy shook her head and replied, ¡°Well, I¡¯m not sure. But Joyce Scott isn¡¯t an umon name. It could simply be a coincidence. Perhaps someone else happens to have the same name.¡±
After a moment¡¯s silence, Kristopher nodded and agreed, ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±
Then, gazing out the window, he added, ¡°I¡¯ll drive you home.¡±
He couldn¡¯t understand why, since Joyce¡¯s death, Cathy seemed reluctant to speak of her.
Was it because their bond had been so strong that memories of Joyce brought sadness to Cathy? The source of th?s content is F?ndNovel
Or was it something else?
The car journey from the filming site to the Miller family mansion was quiet.
After exchanging goodbyes with Kristopher and a forced smile, Cathy turned and walked toward the house, her expression somber. In the living room, only her father was present, engrossed in the newspaper on the sofa.
Noticing her return, he quickly stood and greeted, ¡°Cathy, you¡¯re back.¡±
¡°Where is my mother?¡± Cathy asked as she removed her coat, her brow furrowed.
¡°She went to the hospital to visit Joyce.¡±
The mention of Joyce by her father sparked anger in Cathy. In a sudden outburst, she threw what she was holding to the floor and demanded, ¡°Why did she go to see her? That woman should have died long ago!¡±
Darren drove Belinda back to the studio.
The atmosphere in the car felt thick and heavy.
¡°Belinda, have I caused you any more trouble?¡± Darren asked, his voice tinged with concern.
Feel inspired by g¦Á ?¦Ç ¦Ò ¦Í?? ??s,
After they parked the car and stepped into the elevator, Darren exhaled deeply and apologized, ¡°I didn¡¯t realize you were concealing your identity. When I walked in and saw you with those three, I thought they were harassing you again.¡±
As the numbers on the elevator disy ticked down, Belinda responded with a light tone, ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±
By the time Darren had arrived at the filming site, Kristopher had already grown suspicious and begun probing her.
They had been together for three years; she knew him intimately. Once he harbored doubts, he was relentless in his pursuit of the truth. Even without Darren¡¯s intervention, Kristopher would have eventually recognized her.
The elevator doors opened, and they walked into the studio in session.
The day was nearly over, and the studio was almost empty. A lone young woman remained, loudly watching entertainment news while eating her instant noodles.
As Belinda walked in carrying arge jewelry box, she overheard an interview with Kristopher and Cathy from a few days earlier ying from the iPad.
¡°Cathy often wore disguises to hide her identity when we went out. How could I fail to recognize her? I could identify her by just her figure or a look¡¡±
A mocking smile formed on Belinda¡¯s face.
Kristopher¡¯s words made it clear whether he truly loved a woman. He could instantly recognize Cathy from just her silhouette or a fleeting nce.
Yet there she was, masked, and the man who had lived with her for three years stood uncertain of her identity.
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Chapter 227
?Chapter 227:
Meanwhile, Darren, who had been out of touch for years and had only recently reconnected with her, had recognized her from merely seeing her from behind.
The irony stung.
¡°Susie!¡± Darren¡¯s voice broke through the air,den with frustration from the day¡¯s events. Hearing the interview about Kristopher and Cathy only fueled his anger. This text is hosted at find?novel
¡°It¡¯s time to leave. If you must stayte, focus on your work. It¡¯s not appropriate to eat and watch TV in the office.¡±
Susie looked up, her face still bright with amusement from the news.
But when Darren scolded her, Susie¡¯s face shifted quickly. ¡°Why are you so angry? Are you in a bad mood? It¡¯s pitiful enough that I have to work overtime tonight. Now, I get lectured for watching the news and eating noodles. Can¡¯t I even take a break?¡±
Darren frowned and responded firmly, ¡°What kind of news are you watching anyway? The man and woman in that interview are nothing but despicable.¡±
Susie rolled her eyes at him. ¡°Mr. Cox and Miss Miller have been in love for years. It was Mr. Cox¡¯s ex-wife who caused trouble in their rtionship yesterday. How can you speak like that? In my view, the shameless woman who exploited Mr. Cox¡¯s situation and married him is the real viin here!¡±
Darren, caught off guard by Susie¡¯s retort, stiffened.
He raised his voice, ¡°What are you talking about? Kristopher cheated during his marriage. He¡¡±
¡°Darren,¡± Belinda interrupted him calmly before he could finish. ¡°Where should I put this jewelry box?¡±
Darren paused, shifting his gaze from Susie. ¡°Come with me,¡± he said. As they walked away, he couldn¡¯t resist shooting a fierce re back at Susie. ¡°Watch your words in the future!¡±
Susie rolled her eyes again, turned back to her noodles, and deliberately turned up the volume of the news.
L?t??¦Ó c§ß¦Á¦Ñ¦Ó?rs ¦Én g??l??ov?l?.??????
After a few bites, she suddenly stopped, her eyes fixed on the face of Kristopher¡¯s ex-wife on the news.
The woman who had walked in with Darren earlier¡ Was she Kristopher¡¯s ex-wife?
¡°Susie has crossed the line.¡±
After they entered the storage room, Darren took the jewelry box from Belinda¡¯s hand and ced it carefully in the cab. His brow furrowed as he whispered, ¡°I think she¡¯s too young to distinguish right from wrong.¡±
He then turned to Belinda, giving her a meaningful look. ¡°Belinda, don¡¯t take Susie¡¯s words to heart.¡±
¡°I haven¡¯t,¡± replied Belinda with a dismissive tone. ¡°Darren, you know Kristopher and I have divorced. All that is behind me now. There¡¯s no need for worry or agitation.¡±
A shade of pallor washed over Darren¡¯s face. ¡°Belinda, I¡¡±
¡°Darren,¡± she interrupted, taking a deep breath and sliding her hands into her pockets. ¡°She¡¯s merely echoing the chatter from the Inte. Engaging her would only affirm that her words affect us.¡±
Moreover, it had been clear that Susie didn¡¯t recognize Belinda when they had first entered the room. However, following the argument¡
Belinda was no longer certain.
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Chapter 228
?Chapter 228:
Post-divorce, her aspirations to reshape her life as a designer meant leaving behind thebel of being Kristopher¡¯s ex-wife.
¡°I apologize,¡± Darren said after a pause, his voice firm. ¡°Belinda, I will be more mindful.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±
Belinda inhaled deeply and turned to leave.
¡°Miss Nelson!¡±
As Belinda exited the storage room and entered her office, Susie hurried toward her.
She clutched Belinda¡¯s hands, her eyes wide with apology. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry! I had no idea you were employed here¡ That exins Darren¡¯s reaction.¡±
Looking remorseful, Susie added, ¡°I regret calling you those names. I promise to keep those tabloids out of the office.¡±
¡°It¡¯s alright. You were unaware,¡± Belinda stated, her brow furrowed in mild annoyance.
With a deep sigh, she turned and departed from the office.
Behind her, Darren gave Susie a stern look. ¡°Now that you¡¯re aware, mind yournguage.¡±
Susie scowled and murmured, ¡°Why do you make such a fuss over her? You want a forsaken woman?¡±
Darren¡¯s eyes turned cold and piercing. ¡°Be careful with your words. Don¡¯t let me hear you say that again, or there will be consequences!¡±
After his warning, he hurried to catch up with Belinda.
Susie snorted and sent a cold nce in their direction. She pulled out her phone, snapped a photo of them, and uploaded it online with the caption, ¡°She just divorced yesterday, and now she¡¯s already working here. It seems she never truly loved Kristopher.¡±
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¡°Belinda.¡±
Darren caught up with Belinda outside the office building and asked, ¡°Where are you headed now? Going home? I¡¯m heading that way too. Could we go together?¡±
¡°Darren, I need some time alone,¡± said Belinda, stopping in her tracks. Her response left Darren silent for a moment.
After a pause, he pursed his lips and offered, ¡°I¡¯ll drive you home. I promise to keep quiet the whole way.¡±
Belinda hesitated, frowning slightly.
¡°Just this once,¡± Darren urged, looking at her intently. ¡°Today¡¯s your first day back at work. Let me help you out, okay? If you prefer to be alone tomorrow, I¡¯ll respect that.¡±
Though reluctant, Belinda nodded and got into his car.
True to his word, Darren maintained silence throughout the drive.
They soon arrived at the foot of her apartment building.
Darren then insisted on apanying her upstairs to the doorstep. Seeing that he was firm, Belinda agreed. She knew he meant well, though his behavior seemed unusual today.
It wasn¡¯t until she reached her apartment and opened the door that she discovered the reason behind Darren¡¯s actions that day.
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Chapter 229
?Chapter 229:
¡°Surprise!¡±
The moment Belinda swung the door open, the room erupted in a ze of light.
The sudden brightness was so intense that she couldn¡¯t keep her eyes open.
As her eyes adjusted, she saw that the living room was teeming with familiar faces.
Her college roommates, ssmates, and friends from the university club were all there, each wearing a smile.
In the heart of the crowd stood Madisyn, donning a whimsically colored, pointed party hat.
She wheeled forward a towering three-tiered birthday cake, leading the chorus of a hearty, ¡°Happy Birthday, Belinda!¡±
Belinda stood frozen, momentarily stunned as if struck by lightning.
It took her a moment to realize¡
Today was her birthday!
Over the recent years, life had been tough, preupied with caring for Kristopher, and her birthdays had slipped by unnoticed.
She hadpletely forgotten.
Yet, Madisyn had never forgotten it!
This thought made Belinda¡¯s heart swell with emotion. Her lips quivered, her eyes brimmed with tears, and she finally let them flow. After she had married Kristopher and faded from her friends¡¯ lives, she never expected this reunion.
But here they were, all her friends reunited in her apartment, ready to surprise her and revive the birthday traditions she once cherished!
¡°See, I¡¯ve moved Belinda to tears!¡± Madisyn, surrounded by friends, chuckled and pointed out Belinda¡¯s tears, teasing her yfully.
Belinda offered noeback.
G a lno v els is packed with thrilling adventures
She simply nodded, her voice soft. ¡°You really have moved me.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t cry.¡±
Her former college roommate shed aforting smile and said, ¡°You rushed into marriage right after graduation. We all thought it was such a pity. If you had¡ ¡±
Focused on your career back then, who knows what heights you might have reached?¡±
¡°We all read about your divorce from Kristopher yesterday.¡±
¡°Belinda, we¡¯re here not only to celebrate your birthday but also to cheer for your fresh start!¡± Content originallyes from find(?)ovel
Tears streamed down Belinda¡¯s cheeks as she nodded, feeling the warmth of everyone¡¯s support. With joined hands, she made a wish, blew out the candles, and began slicing the cake for everyone.
¡°Happy birthday, Belinda.¡±
Just as she finished distributing the cake slices, a deep, gentle voice reached her ears.
She looked up.
Darren stood there, extending a beautifully wrapped pink gift box. ¡°Madisyn put me up to riling you up today¡ I wasn¡¯t sure how to get under your skin.¡±
A flicker of regret crossed his face. ¡°I overstepped earlier. I¡¯m sorry for that. I¡¯ve been holding onto this gift for quite a while. Please, take it.¡±
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Chapter 230
Chapter 230:
After pausing briefly, Belinda epted the gift box with a smile and said, ¡°Thank you, Darren!¡±
Seeing her smile, Darren chose not to say anything more.
Once they had finished the cake, they headed out to a karaoke bar to sing.
Holding the microphone in the private room, Madisyn announced, ¡°Kristopher got divorced and he booked a bar to celebrate. We¡¯re doing the same for Belinda tonight! Let¡¯s get hammered!¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile widened at that.
The atmosphere was lively and joyful.
It had been a long time since she¡¯d felt this happy.
They stayed out until midnight before heading home.
Back in her apartment, Belinda sank into the sofa and pulled out her cellphone. She scrolled through her contacts to find the friend who hadn¡¯t replied to her in four years and sent a message¡ ¡°Joyce, if only you were here tonight.¡±
Meanwhile, at the Miller residence, Cathy was studying a script in her room when a notification sound came from under her desk.
With a frown, she retrieved the seldom-used phone.
It was a message from Belinda.
Cathy read the text, her lips curling into a sneer.
She muttered under her breath, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Belinda. Joyce will be gone soon!¡±
¡°Belinda,e to my office.¡±
On her second day at thepany, as soon as Belinda arrived, Rnd summoned her to his office.
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The bald, middle-aged man smiled at Belinda as he slid an agreement across the desk. ¡°You did a great job yesterday. Mr. Cox from the Cox Group has requested that our studio provide jewelry designs for his fianc¨¦e and sister for important events. He specifically asked for you to handle it personally. Were you aware of that?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Belinda responded, nodding.
Before she hade to work today, she had anticipated that her boss might discuss this matter with her, although she hadn¡¯t expected it to be so soon.
¡°Even though I¡¯m aware of the delicate dynamics between you, Mr. Cox, and his fianc¨¦e¡¡± Rnd stared intently at her and continued, ¡°This is a valuable opportunity we shouldn¡¯t pass up. Making our studio well-known will bring more attention to your designs in the future, correct?¡±
¡°I understand,¡± Belinda said with another nod.
Seeing that she had no objections, Rnd pushed the supplementary agreement toward her with a grin. ¡°From now on, you¡¯ll not only be a designer here, but you¡¯ll also be responsible for creating jewelry for Miss Cox and Miss Miller. Your workload will triple¡ Make sure there are no errors.¡±
Belinda frowned slightly as she reviewed the agreement on the desk and then signed her name.
She slid the agreement back to Rnd and asked, ¡°Has the client provided any feedback on my designs?¡±
Rnd seemed momentarily taken aback by her directness but soon recovered, nodding as he handed her a document. ¡°Yes.¡±
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Message from Noah: New novel releases in a few hours, have a great evening dear readers. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (¤Å ? _?)¤Å?
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Chapter 231
?Chapter 231:
¡°I¡¯ll go make the necessary changes,¡± Belinda said with a smile as she epted the document. Then she turned to leave.
¡°Belinda.¡±
As she opened the door to leave, Rnd¡¯s voice stopped her. ¡°Aren¡¯t you upset?¡±
She was being forced to serve her ex-husband¡¯s fianc¨¦e just two days into her new job at thepany¡
Most women wouldn¡¯t tolerate such a situation.
Yet, why was she soposed?
¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±
Belinda paused and looked back at him. ¡°I just hope that thepany gains more recognition and that more people see my designs.¡±
She was running out of time.
Before she passed away, she longed to see the jewelry she had crafted reach the market and fulfill the promise she had made to Joyce.
She had vowed to honor their shared dream, even in Joyce¡¯s absence, by giving her all.
Now, so close to achieving this dream, she was determined to give everything she had.
Seeing the resolve in her eyes, Rnd couldn¡¯t help but exhale deeply and said, ¡°Belinda, if you seed this time¡ you¡¯ll be our studio¡¯s hero.¡±
He then gestured to her and added, ¡°Continue with your work.¡± N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on Find1Novel
Belinda nodded and departed with the documents in hand.
The feedback on her revisions this time was far more stringent and detailed than before.
Exclusive stories g¦Áln¦Ò¦Í?ls
She returned to her office and spent the entire day making revisions. By the time the evening arrived and it was almost time to leave, she hadpleted less than 1/5 of the needed changes.
¡°Belinda.¡±
As she stretched, preparing to leave for the day, Rnd summoned her to his office.
¡°I¡¯ve just learned that Miss Miller and Miss Cox will be attending a very prestigious and significant event tomorrow night¡¡± Rnd looked at her with a sense of helplessness and continued, ¡°They¡¯ll being to the studioter to select their jewelry for tomorrow¡ You might need to stayte tonight to assist them.¡±
A significant event¡
Belinda paused for a moment before a sudden realization hit her: tomorrow was the day Kristopher had arranged the venue and ordered the cake, nning to propose to Cathy.
Were Cathy and Maggie considering wearing jewelry from this boutique studio?
Given that tomorrow¡¯s gathering would consist of Kristopher¡¯s and Cathy¡¯s high-society friends and family, the guests were likely to scrutinize everything from attire to essories. Only high-end international brands would escape their judgment.
Belinda remembered the years of mockery she endured from socialites for choosing a modest essory at an event shortly after her marriage to Kristopher.
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Chapter 232
?Chapter 232:
Was it wise for them to choose jewelry from this studio for such an asion?
Wasn¡¯t Cathy worried about being ridiculed?
¡°Belinda,¡± Rnd began, interrupting her thoughts. He noticed her frown and offered an awkward smile. ¡°Mr. Cox only requested yesterday that Miss Miller and Miss Cox wear our studio¡¯s designs at public events. And today, they decided to visit our studio, showing their trust and appreciation for our work. You¡¡±
¡°Mr. Moreno,¡± Belinda cut in, her expression stern. ¡°Do you honestly believe that Cathy and Maggie¡¯s choice reflects their genuine approval of our studio? You are aware of theirplex rtionship with me.¡±
Kristopher had made it clear just yesterday that Cathy and Maggie were to wear Wildfield Design Studio¡¯s jewelry at public events. Though Kristopher¡¯s manner had been somewhat brusque, Belindater concluded that he might be aiming to support the studio. Given Cathy¡¯s and Maggie¡¯s current stature, their choice of attire would naturally attract attention.
However, the engagement was set at the Summit Hotel, known for its intimate, not expansive, event spaces.
This meant that only close friends and family of the Cox and Miller ns would be in attendance. N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on f¦É?dn¦Ïvel
In such an exclusive setting, one might expect Cathy and Maggie to opt for well-known, luxurious brands.
Yet here they were at Wildfield Design Studio, approaching her just as she was ready to leave for the day.
It seemed too intentional to be mere coincidence.
As Belinda scrutinized his narrative, Rnd could only muster a sheepish grin. ¡°Indeed, I understand¡ However, Belinda, remember you epted the terms and signed the contract this morning. Tonight marks their first official coboration with us¡¡±
While speaking, he retrieved a thick envelope from the drawer and slid it across the table towards her. ¡°Think of it aspensation for the extra time; please, just put in the effort.¡±
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Belinda¡¯s expression grew more contemtive as she regarded the envelope.
This was not just about the money. By signing the contract that morning, she hadmitted to coborating with these two women and Kristopher, all to further her own creative ambitions.
If enduring theirpany could advance her goals in the time she had left, she was prepared to bear it.
After all, Belinda had tolerated Maggie¡¯s harsh words for three long years.
Yet, she hadn¡¯t expected to confront these two women right after signing the agreement, particrly after such an exhausting day. She had dedicated her entire day to refining designs and was not in the frame of mind to handle any additional demands.
Furthermore, the idea of personally selecting jewelry for Cathy to wear at Kristopher¡¯s proposal made her feel incredibly constricted. Taking a deep breath, she diverted her eyes from the envelope. ¡°Mr. Moreno, this isn¡¯t about the money. I¡¯m thoroughly worn out today. I have no interest in using my personal time to indulge those two women¡¯s caprices.¡±
¡°Caprices?¡± A cold male voice interjected from the doorway behind her. ¡°Youmitted to assist them with their jewelry needs. How can you disparage your clients before you¡¯ve even begun the task?¡±
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Chapter 233
?Chapter 233:
¡°Mr. Cox!¡±
Before Belinda could turn, Rnd was already wide-eyed with surprise, his expression alive with thrill. ¡°What brings you to our humble studio in person?¡±
Breezing past Belinda, Rnd approached Kristopher with an outstretched hand, his smile broad. ¡°It¡¯s truly a pleasure to see you again! Ourst meeting was at Mr. Anthony Cox¡¯s birthday banquet, wasn¡¯t it? Do you recall that evening?¡±
Kristopher gave a slight nod, his face expressionless, as he returned the handshake. ¡°I do.¡±
That was the evening Rnd had led Darren to Belinda at Anthony¡¯s gathering. Such a moment was not easily forgotten. ¡°Mr. Cox, your memory impresses!¡±
Rnd¡¯s voice held a note of genuine astonishment. ¡°To think you¡¯d remember me, from our little studio!¡±
¡°Hmm.¡±
Kristopher offered no more than a grunt, his interest in the conversation waning rapidly. He shot a quick, icy nce at Belinda. ¡°Belinda.¡±
Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Belinda turned slowly to face him. ¡°Mr. Cox.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze narrowed as he looked her in the eyes.
Her expression remained cool and distant, as though he were a stranger she barely recognized.
Her unaffected demeanor unexpectedly irked Kristopher, feeling as though invisible hands were scooping out his insides, leaving a hollow unease.
With a frown, he spoke sharply. ¡°Cathy and Maggie are selecting dresses. I¡¯vee to pick you up.¡±
After a brief pause, Belinda nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±
She nced down briefly, moved to Rnd¡¯s desk to pick up a thick envelope, slipped it into her bag, and then strode past Kristopher towards the door. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±
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She realized that regardless of her feelings, she was obliged to attend to the needs of the two ¡°princesses¡± that night.
Considering this, while they were upied with dress fittings, even Kristopher had been reduced to the role of a chauffeur.
This reflection brought a soft sigh to her lips.
During their marriage, Belinda had always been cautious about imposing on Kristopher.
She would never have asked him to drive her like this, much less to apany her home after work. She feared beingbeled as spoiled, worried that Kristopher might see her as delicate and pretentious. So, she took on everything herself, braving both rain and sun withoutint.
She believed this was the sensible approach.
But¡
It wasn¡¯t until she witnessed Kristopher¡¯s indulgence of Cathy¡¯s whimsical behaviors and his deferential demeanor towards her that she understood: this man did not value sensibility in a woman. Or perhaps, no matter her pragmatism, he simply preferred Cathy, who could throw a fit over nothing right in front of him.
Kristopher stood still, watching Belinda¡¯s retreating form, a knot of frustration tightening in his chest.
He straightened his tie and followed her out.
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Chapter 234
?Chapter 234:
¡°Mr. Cox, take care¡¡±
Rnd¡¯s voice trailed after Kristopher, overly deferential as he bid him farewell.
It was only when Kristopher caught up with Belinda by the elevator that Rnd discreetly looked away, gently closing the office door and returning to his desk.
He lifted his teacup, took a thoughtful sip, then turned on hisputer and logged into thepany¡¯s surveince system. As he watched Belinda and Kristopher exit the elevator side by side on the screen, a slight smile yed at the corners of Rnd¡¯s mouth.
Darren had indeed secured a valuable deal for thepany.
It was clear that Kristopher still harbored feelings for his former wife.
When Belinda stepped out of the office building, she opened the passenger door and was about to climb in when she noticed a woman¡¯s lipstick resting on the seat.
With a frown, she mmed the door shut and opted to sit in the back seat instead.
As Kristopher settled into the driver¡¯s seat, he noticed Belinda had moved.
He couldn¡¯t suppress a chuckle. ¡°Do you want to keep your distance from me?¡±
Belinda pointed at the lipstick on the front passenger seat. ¡°It¡¯s Miss Miller¡¯s favorite color. She left her lipstick here on your seat. Her intentions couldn¡¯t be clearer. I certainly don¡¯t want to cause any trouble.¡±
Kristopher nced at the lipstick and frowned. ¡°When she was trying on the dress, she sat here to adjust her makeup. It¡¯s probably just an oversight.¡±
Belinda scoffed and chose not to continue the argument.
Just then, Kristopher¡¯s phone rang.
It was Cathy.
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In the cramped space of the car, Cathy¡¯s voice seemed to fill every corner. ¡°Where are you, Kristopher? When I changed with Maggie and came out, you weren¡¯t there. The shop assistant mentioned you¡¯d stepped out. Where did you go?¡±
Hearing the barrage of questions from Cathy, Kristopher raised his eyebrows in displeasure and replied, ¡°I went to pick up Belinda.¡±
On the other end of the line, Cathy yelled, ¡°Why are you looking for Belinda?¡±
Kristopher paused before answering, ¡°You and Maggie only try on clothes, but clothes look their best when paired with the right jewelry. Now that you¡¯ve signed an agreement with Belinda, she¡¯ll be your jewelry assistant for a while. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a good idea to let her help with the jewelry?¡±
On the other end of the line, Cathy snorted. ¡°Maybe I know more about jewelry than she does.¡±
After a brief silence, she asked, ¡°When are youing back? I don¡¯t want you spending too much time alone with her.¡±
Hearing this, Kristopher frowned and was about to respond when Belinda¡¯s indifferent voice cut in. ¡°We have set off, Miss Miller.¡±
Belinda¡¯s sudden interruption startled Cathy. Original content can be found at F?ndNovel
A slight scream escaped Cathy, followed by a tone filled with both anger and grievance. ¡°What¡¯s going on? Kristopher, did you put our conversation on speakerphone? How could you do this?¡±
Her voice grew increasingly aggrieved, even breaking into sobs. ¡°You let another woman hear what I said to you. You don¡¯t respect me at all!¡±
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Chapter 235
?Chapter 235:
Kristopher, who dreaded Cathy¡¯s tears, knew her health could be affected by her emotions. Emotional disturbances often led to stomach pain, and she had advanced gastric cancer¡
With this in mind, he quickly tried to soothe her, got out of the driver¡¯s seat, and opened the passenger door, signaling to Belinda to take over the driving.
It appeared he would spend the journeyforting Cathy.
Belinda slid out of the car, then climbed into the driver¡¯s seat and started the engine.
¡°We¡¯re in the car, and it¡¯s too cramped to avoid overhearing,¡± Kristopher exined. ¡°Cathy, how could I let someone else hear our conversation? It was truly just a coincidence¡¡±
As the car pulled away, Kristopher took his ce in the passenger seat and continued to patientlyfort the emotionally unstable Cathy.
While they were stopped at a traffic light, Belinda turned to observe the man beside her in the passenger seat. His tone was gentle as he spoke to Cathy on the phone ¡ª a gentleness she hadn¡¯t witnessed in the three years she had known him.
¡°Okay, okay, I¡¯ll buy you flowers,¡± Kristopher said softly into the phone. After a brief pause, he asked in a low and soft voice, ¡°What kind of flowers do you want? Okay, let me ask her.¡±
Once he ended the call, Kristopher faced Belinda again and asked, ¡°Do you know much about flowers?¡±
He stowed his phone away and added nonchntly, ¡°Let¡¯s go pick out a bouquet to apologize to Cathy.¡±
¡°Apologize?¡±
Belinda stared at Kristopher, her expression one of utter disbelief.
g?ln¦Ò¦Í????s?c?m fuels your imagination
She never thought that he would apologize.
Historically, Kristopher had never backed down from an argument, whether it was with her or his grandfather. He always stood firm, never conceding he was wrong.
Each time, Belinda and Anthony were the ones to reach out and make peace, easing the strain in their rtionship just a bit.
Thus, she had always believed Kristopher was the type of man who would never acknowledge his mistakes.
But she never imagined that Kristopher, usually so aloof and unyielding, would buy flowers for Cathy and offer an apology. What was more, he did this merely because Cathy thought he had intentionally put their conversation on speakerphone.
¡°Is there something on my face?¡±
Noticing Belinda¡¯s gaze, Kristopher frowned and instinctively touched his face.
That was when Belinda came back to her senses.
By then, the traffic light had turned green.
She pressed the elerator and kept her eyes on the road. ¡°I never thought you¡¯d one day openly acknowledge your mistake and realize that girls appreciate flowers.¡±
Previously, every time Kristopher got flowers for her, it was because Anthony had pressured him.
Kristopher would always remark impatiently that she was quite the bother.
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Chapter 236
?Chapter 236:
After a brief pause, Kristopher looked out the window awkwardly and said, ¡°Cathy is different from the rest. I don¡¯t want to fight with her or upset her.¡±
If they didn¡¯t proceed with the necessary treatment soon, Cathy would have less than three months left. Find the newest release on find?novel
As a person who had been saved by Cathy and her friend, Kristopher didn¡¯t want to argue with her at this time. He didn¡¯t want her to be sad because of him.
¡°You are right.¡±
As Belinda drove, a mocking smile curled at the edge of her mouth. ¡°For you, Miss Miller truly is something special.¡±
Three years ago, when he was incapacitated, Cathy left without a second thought.
Now that she was back, he treasured her as if she were invaluable. He could even overlook Cathy¡¯s previous abandonment. Why would he sweat the small stuff now?
The car rounded several turns and finally stopped in front of a flower shop.
After she parked the car on the side of the road, Belinda unbuckled her seatbelt and looked over at Kristopher. ¡°Did Cathy mention which flowers she likes?¡±
¡°She likes red roses,¡± Kristopher said, his brow furrowed.
Red roses?
Belinda paused briefly, and then it clicked.
She suspected that Cathy might not actually like red roses. Perhaps she just wanted Kristopher to send them to her.
Red roses symbolized romantic love, and each number carried a distinct, passionate message.
Belinda smirked slightly and said, ¡°That¡¯s quite romantic.¡±
After saying that, she stepped out of the car and walked into the flower shop. She chose the most vibrant and lovely bunch of red roses, cradling it carefully. After inspecting it thoroughly and finding no imperfections, she looked up at Kristopher. ¡°These roses are perfect.¡±
She was aware that Kristophercked finesse in selecting flowers. She couldn¡¯t recall which flower shop he used previously, but the bouquets he bought were always poorly coordinated and haphazard. If the bouquet Kristopher gave to Cathy today was simr to the one he had given to Belinda, it would surely spoil Cathy¡¯s mood.
Today, Belinda was simply a humble jewelry assistant. A sour mood from Cathy might mean a harder day for her.
So, even for her own sake, Belinda feltpelled to assist Kristopher in choosing the right flowers.
If Cathy was happy, Belinda could wrap up her work quickly and head home to rx.
¡°Miss, you have excellent taste!¡± eximed the shop owner with a smile. ¡°I¡¯ve really put my heart into this bouquet today! It¡¯s my favorite.¡±
As she spoke, she turned toward Kristopher and continued, ¡°Sir, look how your girlfriend has such fine taste in flowers and men! Just look at her holding those roses. She looks stunning with the red roses!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gaze shifted to Belinda.
Before him stood a short-haired woman in white, embracing arge bouquet of gorgeous roses.
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Chapter 237
?Chapter 237:
The vivid red of the roses highlighted her fair skin, casting her in an even more graceful light. ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? FindN()vel
A flicker of surprise crossed his face.
The flowers¡ truly suited her.
In the past three years, he had followed his grandfather¡¯s instructions for flower-giving. He had always arranged and picked the bouquets from his grandfather¡¯s garden himself.
He had never given her such exquisite roses before.
At that moment, an urge surged within him to embrace her.
¡°Here are your flowers, miss.¡±
After Kristopherpleted the payment, the florist handed over avish bouquet of bright red roses to Belinda with enthusiasm. ¡°Your boyfriend is so good-looking and clearly adores you!¡±
Belinda¡¯s face soured at the mention of ¡°boyfriend,¡± and she quickly corrected, ¡°He¡¯s not my boyfriend.¡±
¡°Oh, then he must be your husband?¡± the florist ventured, her curiosity piqued.
The shop was unusually quiet, perhaps prompting the florist to engage more than usual. ¡°I¡¯ve been here for years, watching young couples. They¡¯re all honey and roses before they marry¡ªbuying flowers every week. Once they¡¯re married, though, they vanish. It¡¯s as if marriage marks the end of their need to show affection¡ It¡¯s unusual these days to find a couple like you, keeping the love and ceremony alive even after marriage!¡±
Belinda grew increasingly irritated by the florist¡¯s rambling. ¡°We¡¯re divorced,¡± she interjected sharply.
Approaching Kristopher, she handed him the roses brusquely. ¡°These are for his new partner. I¡¯m just helping out.¡±
With those words, she spun on her heel and strode toward the exit.
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The florist, taken aback, watched in stunned silence. Kristopher, noting her surprise, offered an apologetic frown before taking the roses and leaving the shop.
The florist was left gaping.
In her many years in the business, she had never witnessed such a revtion¡
Unable to resist the urge, she pulled out her phone and stealthily took a photo of the two departing, quickly sharing it on social media with a caption. ¡°Ex-wife and ex-husband shopping for flowers for his current love¡ My brain just can¡¯t wrap around this¡ªwhat¡¯s the rtionship here?¡±
¡°Belinda.¡±
As he sat in the passenger seat, Kristopher buckled his seatbelt and said in a casual tone, ¡°The florist was just being nice. There was no need to tell her all that.¡±
Belinda held the steering wheel firmly, her gaze fixed straight ahead. ¡°I don¡¯t appreciate being misunderstood.¡±
Kristopher let out a scornfulugh. ¡°Yet, you didn¡¯t seem to mind when you were misinterpreted with your senior or that college student.¡± Why was it that when it was her being mistaken for being with him, she feltpelled to rify?
Why was she so averse to being linked with him?
Belinda¡¯s expression turned sour. ¡°You¡¯re different from them.¡±
¡°And why is that?¡±
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Chapter 238
?Chapter 238:
Catching a glimpse of therge bouquet of roses in the backseat through the rearview mirror, Belinda responded icily, ¡°They¡¯re both single. And yet, people online still use me of being the other woman in your rtionship with Miss Miller.¡±
As she spoke, her grip on the steering wheel tensed briefly. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be misunderstood anymore.¡±
Kristopher hesitated, then reached for his phone to browse through thetest online chatter. What Belinda said was true.
Despite their divorce being streamed live on the inte just yesterday, online trolls still targeted Belinda, branding her a mistress.
He scowled and muttered, ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±
Belinda¡¯s smile was tinged with sarcasm. ¡°Thank you so much, Mr. Cox.¡±
The truth was, she and Fred had made a discoveryst night.
Most of the ounts hurling insults at her post-divorce belonged to a part-time job group chat that Fred was part of.
They were still being instructed to attack her online as a ¡°shameless mistress,¡± with new tasks being issued as early as six or seven in the morning.
The group was sponsored by ¡°Kristopher and Cathy.¡±
The name left little doubt about who was behind the campaign. Yet here he was, pretending to be oblivious to the rumors, promising to help her deal with them¡
As these thoughts swirled in her head, Belinda couldn¡¯t resist throwing a sidelong nce at Kristopher as they halted at a red light. ¡°Have you been taking acting lessons with Miss Millertely?¡±
With his superb dramatic skills, he could easily pursue a career in acting!
¡°NO,¡± Kristopher said, his frown deepening as he shot a sharp nce toward Belinda. ¡°Why would I take acting lessons with her?¡±
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Belinda simply pursed her lips, staring fixedly ahead. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±
Despite her restraint, Kristopher¡¯s keen perception didn¡¯t miss a beat.
He had caught the sarcasm in her voice.
Turning to face her directly, his eyes narrowed. ¡°Belinda, are you suggesting I¡¯m just putting on an act for you?¡±
His intense gaze unsettled her, sending a ripple of difort through her.
To avoid his probing, Belinda cleared her throat and swiftly changed the subject. ¡°You haven¡¯t yet given me Miss Miller and Miss Cox¡¯s address.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s attention shifted out the car window, and upon realizing they were on the wrong path, he let the previous conversation drop.
With a calm demeanor, he told her where Cathy and Maggie were. ¡°Looks like we¡¯re off course.¡±
Reacting quickly, Belinda deftly turned the car around, setting their course toward the given address.
Observing herposed focus from the passenger seat, Kristopher felt an unexpected surge of admiration.
When had hest noticed the intensity of her beauty in such moments of concentration?
Before long, they reached the boutique where Cathy and Maggie were busy trying on dresses. For original chapters go to F?ndNovel
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Chapter 239
?Chapter 239:
This boutique was renowned for its exquisite, handcrafted gowns, the work of a tailor with over half a century of experience.
The uniqueness and craftsmanship, thus,manded a steep price.
Only Nawrin¡¯s elite shopped here for their most significant events.
As Belinda and Kristopher stepped out of the car and entered the store, Belinda couldn¡¯t help but admire the luxurious dresses showcased in the window disys.
Despite their hefty price tags, their beauty was undeniable.
When Belinda and Kristopher had tied the knot, Anthony had been keen on getting her wedding dress custom-made from this very shop for avish ceremony. But Belinda had declined.
At the time, Kristopher had justpsed into aa, and the Cox Group was floundering, its future hanging by a thread.
Belinda, who avoided extravagance, saw little reason to celebrate their marriage with grandeur. Instead, she convinced Anthony to allocate the funds toward stabilizing thepany.
Grasping her hand, Anthony had made a promise: once the Cox Group regained stability, or if Kristopher awoke, he would ensure Belinda had her custom wedding dress for the perfect ceremony.
To ease his concerns, Belinda had given him a heartfelt smile and agreed enthusiastically.
Later, after Kristopher¡¯s recovery, Anthony proposed a bted wedding celebration. However, Kristopher declined.
He confessed that he couldn¡¯t offer Belinda a wedding because he didn¡¯t love her, but as a token of gratitude for her unwavering care, he would instead host avish birthday party for her.
That day, Anthony had lectured him extensively, but Kristopher remained resolute, insisting the most he could muster was a birthday celebration.
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The subject was quickly forgotten, never to be brought up again. Now separated from Kristopher, Belinda realized he had never thrown her a wedding or the birthday party he had once promised.
This thought filled her with a wave of sadness.
Had Kristopher not taken her out today, she might havepletely forgotten his earlier promise to celebrate her birthday, which had just slipped by unnoticed the day before.
It seemed he might not even recall the date. ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find[?]ovel
¡°Kristopher!¡± Cathy¡¯s voice, bursting with excitement, shattered Belinda¡¯s gloomy thoughts.
Looking up, Belinda saw Cathy, dressed in a flowing sky-blue gown adorned with shimmering crystals, hurrying towards them, her face radiating happiness.
¡°What brought on this sudden desire to get me flowers?¡± she asked, her voice tinged with surprise and delight. Grabbing the bouquet from Kristopher, she buried it in her arms.
Her face in the red roses, Cathy breathed in their scent deeply. ¡°Such arge bouquet! It¡¯s my favorite! It must be ny-nine roses?¡±
Maggie, who was carefully holding up her own dress, joined in. ¡°Ny-nine roses mean evesting love, you know. Kristopher has turned quite the romantic since you returned, Cathy!¡±
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Chapter 240
?Chapter 240:
She paused, then added with a slight smirk, ¡°His ex-wife? He never even bothered to give her nine roses, let alone ny-nine!¡±
As Maggie concluded, Cathy shifted her attention to Belinda. ¡°So, Miss Nelson, Kristopher has never given you even nine roses?¡±
Belinda nodded, her eyebrows arching slightly. ¡°Exactly.¡± Maggie¡¯s observation was urate.
Throughout her marriage to Kristopher, he rarely presented her with flowers. When he did offer flowers, they were usually arranged haphazardly, devoid of any romantic ir, and the blossoms were often wilted. Belinda had long suspected that he gathered them haphazardly from roadside flowerbeds merely out of a sense of obligation.
Overhearing Belinda, Maggie fixed a mocking look upon her. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you actually showed up. Cathy just mentioned you would. I thought you wouldn¡¯t be so audacious, yet here you are.¡±
As she spoke, her eyes, highlighted by colored contact lenses, roved over Belinda derisively. ¡°So, did you develop a taste for serving Cathy and me yesterday?¡±
Belinda responded with a nonchnt shrug. ¡°Mr. Cox brought up coborating with mypany yesterday, remember? I¡¯m here strictly for professional reasons.¡±
¡°Professional reasons?¡± Maggie scoffed coldly. ¡°Belinda, who are you kidding? You¡¯re well aware that Kristopher¡¯s decision to partner with yourpany is merely to embarrass you. Yet, you¡¯ve willingly walked into this humiliation?¡±
With calmposure, Belinda replied, ¡°I¡¯m just trying to make a living.¡±
Her statement provoked Maggie, who had never experienced financial want, tough scornfully. ¡°Really? Regretting walking away from the marriage empty-handed? Have youe here to dere your bankruptcy? If money is that tight, why go through all these theatrics?¡± She gestured towards the marble floor. ¡°Just kneel and bow to Cathy and me. Perhaps we¡¯ll feel charitable enough to give you something.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s face darkened instantly at her words. ¡°Maggie! You¡¯ve gone too far!¡±
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Confronted by Kristopher¡¯s severe expression, Maggie hesitated. She sulked, not daring to challenge him further, and whispered, ¡°I¡¯m merely stating facts.¡±
¡°Miss Nelson.¡± Cathy, noticing Kristopher¡¯s stern demeanor and Maggie¡¯s difort, offered a gracious smile to Belinda. ¡°You know Maggie speaks without thinking. Don¡¯t take her words to heart.¡± ?????? ???? F?ndNovel
Then, holding the roses closer, Cathy added, ¡°But truly, Miss Nelson, you¡¯ve never received even nine roses from Kristopher? Perhaps we should remedy that¡¡±
As Cathy reached for the bouquet, she offered a sly suggestion. ¡°How about I give you nine roses from the ones Kristopher gave me? To make up for what you missed.¡±
¡°I never have such a wish,¡± Belinda replied, skillfully dodging the undertone of sarcasm. ¡°Miss Miller, are you nning to wear this dress tomorrow?¡±
The sky-blue gown, adorned with sparkling crystals, indeed lent itself well to essorizing.
Cathy turned towards the mirror, examining her reflection. ¡°Kristopher, do you think this dress works for tomorrow?¡±
¡°It doesn¡¯t,¡± Kristopher answered quietly. ¡°It¡¯s too showy, not suitable. Try something else.¡±
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Chapter 241
?Chapter 241:
Cathy pouted, clearly unhappy, but she reluctantly muttered about hisck of style and retreated to the dressing room to change.
With Cathy gone, Maggie dered her boredom. ¡°I¡¯ll change too. This dress isn¡¯t right either.¡± They exited one after another.
Belinda felt her irritation mounting.
After a long day of revising design drafts, she was weary. If these two kept swapping dresses, how much longer would it take to select the jewelry and finally let her leave?
She exhaled a frustrated sigh. ¡°Actually, I think Miss Miller¡¯s dress was quite fitting.¡±
It was elegant and radiant, perfectly befitting Cathy.
Kristopher, still watching the path Cathy had taken, disagreed. ¡°It¡¯s not right.¡±
If tomorrow¡¯s banquet were held for Cathy, the blue dress would be fitting.
However, she was not the centerpiece of the uing party. Wearing that dress would divert attention from the intended focal point of the event.
Reflecting on this, he turned to Belinda. ¡°You¡¯re also attending tomorrow¡¯s ceremony. Why don¡¯t you pick out a dress for the asion now?¡±
Belinda stared at Kristopher, her gaze tinged with disbelief. ¡°You want me to dress up formally and attend tomorrow¡¯s ceremony? For what?¡± She knew that tomorrow, Kristopher would propose to Cathy. It seemed absurd enough that he expected Belinda to attend their engagement party, and now, he even asked her to wear a gown. Really?
Had he forgotten that they¡¯d just ended their marriage days earlier? Was he losing his mind, expecting his ex-wife to dress up for his new engagement?
Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Because tomorrow, you¡¯re the main attraction.¡±
Belinda couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes.
L?t??t ?h¦Ápt?rs ??n g??l??ov?l??.????m
She was to be the main attraction at his proposal to another woman? Was he trying to disgust her or perhaps embarrass her? Did it ever cross his mind that she might be the least ufortable one there if she showed up?
As these thoughts swirled in her head, Belinda scoffed. ¡°You really want me to be there?¡±
¡°Yes, absolutely,¡± Kristopher confirmed. ¡°Without you, the event wouldn¡¯t hold the same meaning.¡±
He turned to look at a flesh-pink gown in the boutique window, its fabric glittering with crystals. ¡°That one would look perfect on you.¡± It was exactly the type of dress Belinda used to like¡ªelegant, sophisticated, and subtly intellectual. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? find~novel
Belinda gave him a chilly stare. ¡°Tell me, do you n to buy a dress for me here?¡±
The dresses in the shop were priced so steeply that, pooling all her resources together, Belinda still couldn¡¯t afford even one.
¡°Yes,¡± Kristopher replied casually. ¡°We were married once, after all. It¡¯s no great trouble to buy you a dress for tomorrow¡¯s event.¡±
Belinda arched an eyebrow and offered a smile. ¡°Okay then.¡±
She gestured towards the most striking dress in the store. It was a dazzling red traditional gown embellished with rubies. ¡°I¡¯ll take that one.¡±
If Kristopher wanted her to dress up for his engagement party with Cathy, she intended to be the center of attention. As his former wife, she was determined to ensure that every guest noted her presence. Next, she would watch to see how Kristopher and Cathy managed that.
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Chapter 242
?Chapter 242:
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he eyed the bold, red gown. It was a sharp contrast to the store¡¯s array of soft pastel shades. The dress was too vivid, too daring. Oddly, it brought back the image of Belinda at the racetrack, her hair billowing behind her as she took off her helmet.
He halted, realizing the woman standing before him was not the gentle, soft-smiling Belinda he remembered, the one who always appeared demure and virtuous both in public and private.
Belinda moved towards the red gown and nced at the price tag, then turned to look at Kristopher. ¡°Mr. Cox, are you second-guessing because of the price?¡±
She was quite certain this gown was the priciest in the entire store. Kristopher snapped out of his daze and shook his head. ¡°It just took me by surprise that you¡¯d choose something like this.¡±
Belinda stopped and gave him a scornfulugh. ¡°Clearly, you don¡¯t know me at all. It¡¯s no wonder you can¡¯t predict what I¡¯d like.¡± With that, she beckoned a sales assistant, who promptly removed the gown from the mannequin. Belinda took it and disappeared into the fitting room.
At that moment, Cathy emerged from another fitting room, dressed in a moon-white gown. She spun around before Kristopher. ¡°Don¡¯t you think this color is a bit dull?¡± The color seemed too in,cking the impact needed for the female lead at a proposal ceremony.
Yet, Kristopher gave a slight nod. ¡°It looks lovely on you.¡±
Despite her hesitation, Cathy decided to trust his judgment. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll wear it at tomorrow¡¯s event!¡±
As she spoke, she reached out to take Kristopher¡¯s arm. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯m so looking forward to tomorrow!¡±
Kristopher gazed at her animated expression, his eyes filled with uncertainty. ¡°Cathy, do you¡ really understand what tomorrow¡¯s ceremony is all about?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s question made Cathy blush.
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When Cathy had first returned to the country, Maggie had whispered to her that Kristopher had already reserved the venue and ordered the cake at the Summit Hotel. The hotel was small but very exclusive, a favored spot for Nawrin¡¯s high society to celebrate their big asions.
Kristopher booking everything the day he found out she was back spoke volumes about his intentions.
As she pondered this, Cathy shyly bit her lip. ¡°Kristopher, of course, I know what tomorrow¡¯s ceremony is for. If I didn¡¯t, why would I have brought Maggie to try on dresses today?¡± Read full story at FindN0vel
She looked up into Kristopher¡¯s deep eyes, her own sparkling with admiration and excitement. ¡°I can see how much effort you¡¯ve put in.¡±
She had been looking forward to this day for so long. The journalists she knew were all ready and waiting. She had quietly invited every reporter in Nawrin, along with all her family and friends, toe and share in her and Kristopher¡¯s joy. Tomorrow night, she would be the happiest woman alive!
Seeing her smile, Kristopher paused and turned away, feeling a bit awkward. ¡°I just made some simple preparations.¡±
¡°That¡¯s more than enough!¡± Cathy beamed. ¡°I know how busy you are. The fact that you took the time to n a surprise means the world to me. I¡¯m really looking forward to tomorrow!¡±
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Chapter 243
?Chapter 243:
She winked yfully at Kristopher. ¡°The cake you picked out is delicious, and I absolutely love it.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s lips twitched into a small smile. ¡°Marc rmended it.¡± Cathy talking about the cake confirmed that she was well aware of tomorrow¡¯s details. With that, Kristopher chose not to bring up any more about it.
Just then, Maggie stepped out of the fitting room in a pink gown.
¡°Maggie, you look stunning!¡± Cathy eximed, clearly impressed.
Maggie¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Really?¡±
¡°For sure!¡± Cathy approached her. ¡°This pink really suits you¡¡±
Then she turned to the store clerks. ¡°Don¡¯t you think?¡±
¡°Yes, it¡¯s really beautiful!¡±
¡°This pink is so delicate; it makes Miss Cox look like an angel¡¡±
¡°It¡¯s not just the dress. Miss Cox¡¯s natural beauty makes it even more stunning¡¡±
The clerks¡¯pliments seemed to lift Maggie¡¯s spirits, almost convincing her to buy the dress on the spot. Discover more novels at Find¡ïNovel
Just then, the door of the fitting room across from Maggie¡¯s swung open.
Belinda stepped out, stunning in a striking red gown.
The store instantly fell silent.
The clerks, who had been endlessly praising Maggie, stopped and turned their attention to Belinda.
The vivid red of her dress outshone all others in the store, making them seem dull byparison.
The red was so intense that it captivated everyone¡¯s gaze.
Your escape begins with ga ln ov els .
Even Kristopher, caught by surprise, had not realized before how striking Belinda looked in red.
Next to Belinda¡¯s vibrant gown, Maggie¡¯s pink dress looked pale and outdated.
The clerks, previously full ofpliments for Maggie, now stood speechless as they admired Belinda.
Maggie felt as though she had been lifted high only to be dropped abruptly.
She rolled her eyes and said, ¡°Belinda, aren¡¯t you supposed to be helping me and Cathy? Who allowed you to try on dresses? Do you think you¡¯re entitled to that?¡±
Belinda raised her eyebrows, pretending that Maggie¡¯s words had fallen on deaf ears. She turned and walked toward the full-length mirror, studying her reflection. The dress fit her better than she had ever imagined. Its bright red hue made herplexion appear fairer, her features more delicate.
¡°You were always meant for red,¡± Joyce¡¯s voice echoed in her memory. At that time, Belinda had just reunited with her biological family and left the countryside behind. She had believed that returning to the Nelson family would fulfill her dreams, but instead, she found that her biological parents showed a preference for Gillian, the adopted daughter they mistakenly believed was their own. Belinda often felt inadequate, rejected by both her adoptive and biological parents.
She had shied away from bright colors, habitually choosing gray and ck to fade into the background. It was Joyce who had coaxed her into a mall and selected a striking red outfit for her. Joyce had encouraged her, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t feel inferior because youe from the countryside. You are the rightful daughter of the Nelson family; it was merely fate that had you grow up elsewhere. If the Nelsons favor Gillian over you, that is their mistake, not a reflection of your worth. You need to shine brightly, to be noticed!¡±
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Chapter 244
?Chapter 244:
As these memories resurfaced, a bittersweet sensation welled up in Belinda. If Joyce were still alive, she would undoubtedly be thrilled to see her so vibrant and alive.
¡°Belinda, I¡¯m talking to you. Didn¡¯t you hear me?¡± Maggie¡¯s voice snapped Belinda out of her reverie. She red at her. ¡°Are you deaf?¡±
¡°Maggie,¡± Kristopher interjected with a frown. ¡°I asked her to try it on. Remember, she¡¯s attending the ceremony tomorrow evening.¡±
Maggie was aware of Kristopher¡¯s invitation to Belinda. Upon hearing his reminder, she let out a derisive snort. ¡°Kristopher, she¡¯s your ex-wife. It¡¯s one thing to invite her to the ceremony, but letting her try on such a dress?¡±
The dress Belinda wore was the boutique¡¯s crown jewel, the most expensive item they had. Maggie and Cathy had only dared admire it from afar. Yet here was Belinda, not just browsing in this upscale store but also trying on its most costly garment!
¡°Not only that,¡± Belinda replied, smoothing her short hair and giving Maggie a mocking look. ¡°Mr. Cox even mentioned that if I liked it, he would let me have it.¡±
Maggie¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Kristopher, are you out of your mind?¡± As far as Maggie knew, during the three years that Belinda and Kristopher were married, he had never presented Belinda with anything particrly valuable. Yet now, following their separation, he seemed prepared to gift her such an extravagant dress?
Kristopher met Maggie¡¯s gaze with indifference, his expression unbothered by her astonishment. ¡°It¡¯s merely a dress.¡± He paused shortly and exined further, ¡°While we were together, I gave Belinda gifts that were even more costly than this. She simply chose not to make a show of it.¡±
¡°But this is the most expensive piece!¡± Maggie protested. ¡°Cathy and I didn¡¯t even dare to try it on, worried about the cost.¡± She turned her re sharply toward Belinda. ¡°I never thought you would be so cheeky!¡±
Belinda, poised in front of the mirror adjusting the ruby embellishments on her dress, ignored Maggie¡¯s scornful look. ¡°If you were genuinely concerned about your brother¡¯s finances, you wouldn¡¯t be here shopping for expensive dresses. Every piece in this boutique costs multiple times more than those found in regr stores. You know this as well as I do. You exploit your brother¡¯s generosity, yet you dare to judge me?¡±
Maggie¡¯s face flushed with fury. She was not ustomed to Belinda confronting her so directly. ¡°I am his sister! It¡¯s perfectly eptable for him to spend on me. Unlike you ¡ª you¡¯re his ex-wife! Yet you¡¯re still sponging off him after the divorce. How shameless!¡±
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Cathy stepped in, her voice soft but firm, hoping to sway the conversation. ¡°Miss Nelson, when you and Kristopher divorced, you walked away with nothing, which led us to believe you were indifferent to material wealth. Why the sudden interest in this dress? During the divorce, you seemed so detached ¡ª was it all just an act for the live stream, to maintain your public image?¡± She sighed, her expression a blend of frustration and disappointment. ¡°Miss Nelson, is this really necessary? You project an image of someone who isn¡¯t interested in money, yet your actions suggest otherwise.¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice carried a note of resignation. ¡°Kristopher still harbors guilt over how things ended between you two and tolerates much from you. Anyone else might face harsh criticism for such behavior¡¡±
Belinda¡¯s expression darkened as she couldn¡¯t help but admire Cathy¡¯s skill in twisting the truth. Cathy was clueless about what had really happened between Belinda and Kristopher, yet she had no trouble portraying Belinda as a woman shamelessly seeking favors from her ex.
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Chapter 245
?Chapter 245:
¡°Miss Miller¡¡± Apassionate store clerk could no longer hold back and whispered, ¡°Actually¡ It was the gentleman who asked thedy to pick out a dress. She didn¡¯t ask for anything herself. She¡¡±
Before the clerk could finish her sentence, another employee quickly mped a hand over her mouth, silencing her.
A heavy silence filled the room. Cathy looked up at Kristopher with wide eyes, her surprise evident. ¡°Kristopher, did you¡ Did you really suggest buying Miss Nelson a dress?¡±
Kristopher gave a slight nod, his face betraying no emotion. ¡°Yes, she¡¯s going to be there tomorrow.¡±
Cathy was visibly shocked. Kristopher had never told her that Belinda would be attending, too!
Cathy paused, then seemed to grasp Kristopher¡¯s motive. Having Belinda at their engagement party was probably his way of ensuring she moved on, while simultaneously demonstrating his devotion to Cathy. But why choose such a dress for Belinda?
She, the bride-to-be, would be in a simple white dress, while Belinda was to wear a striking red gown adorned with rubies. Wouldn¡¯t that steal her spotlight?
¡°Miss Nelson in red¡ Isn¡¯t that somewhat inappropriate?¡± Cathy suggested, her brows knitting together.
¡°Is it inappropriate?¡± Belinda smiled. ¡°I think it¡¯s perfectly appropriate.¡± Find the newest release on find{n}ovel
Belinda understood exactly what Cathy meant. Cathy must feel it was inappropriate for Kristopher¡¯s ex-wife to wear something so striking when the bride herself would be in white.
However, Belinda was determined to stand out.
If Kristopher was going to insist on her attendance, she nned to outshine the bride.
She was ready to make a statement at their engagement party, all thanks to Kristopher¡¯s invitation.
¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± Kristopher felt a headacheing on. He turned to the clerk who had spoken up for Belinda. ¡°I¡¯ll take the dresses they¡¯re trying on. Please ring them up.¡±
The clerk¡¯s eyes lit up with surprise and appreciation. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Cox! I¡¯ll handle it right away!¡±
She quickly headed to the register, her colleagues eyeing her with jealousy.
Once Kristopher had spoken, Cathy and Maggie had no choice but to stop giving Belinda a hard time.
They sullenly made their way to the fitting room to change.
¡°Thank you so much, Mr. Cox,¡± Belinda said sarcastically, then turned elegantly, lifting her skirt slightly as she walked to the fitting room.
Momentster, Maggie stood next to Cathy, watching Belinda collect the stylish bag from the clerk. She rolled her eyes. ¡°Cathy, if we had known that women would shamelessly choose the priciest dress, you should have tried it on first!¡±
Then, an idea popped into her head. ¡°I¡¯ll get Belinda to take off that dress so you can try it. It might look even better on you!¡±
¡°Forget it, Maggie,¡± Cathy cut her off with a scowl. ¡°That color is too loud for me.¡±
Herment made Kristopher furrow his brow. ¡°Cathy, you¡ Don¡¯t you like red?¡±
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Chapter 246
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But he vividly recalled something Joyce had mentioned five years earlier.
¡°Why don¡¯t you like red? My sister loves red. You have no idea how lively she is or how stunning and spirited she looks in red. When your eyes are healed and you can see, I¡¯ll make sure she wears red just for you.¡±
Those words lingered in Kristopher¡¯s memory.
Back then, he had to leave the small town to attend to family matters before his eyesight was restored, so he never got the chance to see Joyce¡¯s sister in a red dress. This content belongs to find[?]ovel
¡°It¡¯s not that I dislike red. I just don¡¯t like wearing red clothes,¡± Cathy said quietly, turning to Kristopher and gently linking her arm with his. ¡°Kristopher, think about it. When have you ever seen me in red?¡±
Kristopher furrowed his brows. ¡°Do you really not remember much of the past, Cathy?¡±
Her heart skipped a beat at his question. Cathy instinctively nced at Belinda in the distance. She noticed the red bag Belinda was holding and quickly understood.
¡°That¡¯s right. Most of it is a blur.¡± Cathy bit her lip for effect, then affectionately leaned her head against Kristopher¡¯s arm. ¡°I haven¡¯t been the same since I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. I¡¯ve been forgetting a lot of things.¡± She sniffled and pulled back to look at his face. ¡°Did I like red a lot back then?¡±
Kristopher paused at her sad expression before letting out a soft sigh. He patted Cathy¡¯s head. ¡°Never mind that. It¡¯s not important. If you can¡¯t remember, just let it go.¡±
Cathy ducked under his chin again, her expression turning cold. After they decided on the dresses, Kristopher took them to a jewelry store owned by the Cox Group.
The process wasn¡¯t smooth, but Belinda eventually picked out the jewelry for both Cathy and Maggie.
For some reason she couldn¡¯t quite figure out, Kristopher seemed to be in a good mood that day. Not only had he given her a red dress, but he had also offered to gift her a set of jewelry. Belinda refused, of course.
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She had only epted the dress because she had nothing suitable to wear to the event¡ªand also out of spite. He kept insisting she attend in style, so she might as well do it on his dime.
She didn¡¯t need the jewelry, though.
Belinda had her own money to spend. Besides, she didn¡¯t want to be indebted to Kristopher, let alone ept luxury gifts from him.
Finally, today¡¯s task was over, and Cathy and Maggie left with Kristopher. Belinda dragged her exhausted body back to her apartment.
She changed into her loungewear as soon as she arrived and slumped onto the sofa. She was ying with Fluffy on herp when her phone rang.
Belinda nced at the time. It should be Madisyn calling at this hour.
She grabbed her phone, eager to share everything that had happened during the day. But her smile quickly faded when she saw the name disyed on the screen. The call wasn¡¯t from Madisyn at all.
Instead, the caller ID showed a name she hadn¡¯t seen in a long time¡ªDonovan Nelson.
Her biological father.
When Belinda was just two days old, the sister-inw of the nanny who worked for their family had also given birth to a daughter. The nanny devised a n to switch the two baby girls so that her niece could enjoy a life of wealth andfort.
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Chapter 247
?Chapter 247:
Before Belinda even turned a month old, she was secretly swapped and sent to live in the countryside, where she grew up enduring abuse from the so-called parents who raised her. Meanwhile, the nanny¡¯s niece, Gillian, took Belinda¡¯s ce and lived a life of luxury as a young heiress. ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? fin?novel
The truth came to light only when Gillian needed a kidney transnt at the age of seventeen.
Even now, Belinda could clearly remember the joy she felt when she first learned that she had been swapped as a baby. She thought she could finally escape her abusive upbringing and live the life she had always dreamed of, the life she deserved¡ªthe life that should have always been hers.
But that wasn¡¯t what happened when she returned to the Nelson household. Not only did her biological parents ignore her, but they also tantly favored Gillian. They were a happy family unit, and Belinda was nothing more than an outsider.
When Belinda married Kristopher, Donovan still paid little attention to her. He only reached out after Kristopher woke up, and even then, it was sporadic. It was clear that he only saw some value in Belinda when it suited him, and his attempts to reconnect with her were driven by a desire to ingratiate himself with Kristopher¡¯s family.
Donovan hadst contacted her two months ago, inquiring about a possible business partnership with Kristopher¡¯s family. Belinda took a deep breath, bracing herself before answering the phone.
¡°Hello?¡±
¡°Gillian has mentioned how you and Mr. Cox haven¡¯t been visitingtely,¡± Donovan said without preamble, his usual indifferent tone carrying through. ¡°Tomorrow is Gillian¡¯s birthday. Bring Mr. Cox over.¡±
¡°And don¡¯t forget the birthday cake Mr. Cox arranged for your mother¡¯sst birthday. Gillian really enjoyed it. Please order a three-tier cake for tomorrow morning. Gillian is having some friends over for her birthday.¡± Donovan¡¯s tone was cold, more like issuingmands to an employee than talking to his daughter. ¡°Make sure to order it first thing in the morning.¡±
Throughout the call, Belinda remained silent, which seemed to irritate Donovan further. ¡°Belinda, are you listening?¡±
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Belinda frowned and ced her phone on speaker, setting it on the coffee table as she picked up Fluffy, gently squeezing its paw. ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡±
¡°Why aren¡¯t you saying anything then?¡± Donovan¡¯s voice grew sharp. ¡°Isn¡¯t it just polite to reply when your father is speaking to you? You¡¯ve been away from the countryside for years. Haven¡¯t you picked up any basic manners?¡±
Belinda massaged her throbbing temples. ¡°I recall thest time I spoke up while you were talking, you scolded me for interrupting. Now I¡¯m silent, and it¡¯s still not right?¡±
Her reply only seemed to increase Donovan¡¯s annoyance. ¡°I am your father! You should listen without talking back. Is this how they taught you to behave in the countryside? Huh?¡±
Belinda exhaled softly. She knew the Nelsons had never been fond of her, and she had always tried to stay under the radar when around them. While other daughters might discuss their marital issues with their parents and receivefort and support, she had to face her challenges alone, including her terminal illness. Yet, whatever she did, it was never right in their eyes.
¡°Fine then.¡± Donovan¡¯s tone grew more impatient as Belinda stayed silent. ¡°I don¡¯t want to argue. I just called to remind you that tomorrow is Gillian¡¯s birthday. Get the cake, find a gift, and make sure Mr. Coxes home.¡±
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Chapter 248
?Chapter 248:
Without waiting for Belinda¡¯s response, he was about to hang up as usual, but Belinda stopped him.
¡°Mr. Nelson.¡± Belinda took a deep breath, gripping her phone tightly. ¡°You remember tomorrow is Gillian¡¯s birthday, but do you even know when mine is?¡±
Belinda was actually born two days before Gillian, on the 15th, while Gillian¡¯s birthday was on the 17th.
Due to a mix-up, their official records had their birthdays switched. Belinda thought her birthday was on the 17th for the first seventeen years of her life. After the truth came out, although the official records couldn¡¯t be changed, she started celebrating her birthday on the 15th. Gillian then began celebrating her birthday on the 17th.
Despite celebrating Gillian¡¯s birthday on the 15th for seventeen years, the Nelsons seemed to suffer from selective memory loss once the dates were switched back. They forgot the 15th was ever a birthday, recognizing only the 17th as the special day for their beloved Gillian.
Confronted with Belinda¡¯s question, Donovan paused. ¡°Your birthday? Oh, that was yesterday.¡±
His tone was indifferent. ¡°What, you¡¯re upset because we didn¡¯t send birthday wishes? Your mother and I are busy. How can we remember if you don¡¯t remind us?¡±
Belinda responded with a bitterugh. ¡°Is it really that you can¡¯t remember, or just choose not to?¡±
¡°Does it make a difference?¡± Donovan scoffed. ¡°Alright, here¡¯s your bted birthday wish. Happy birthday, okay? Now, make sure to bring Mr. Cox to¡¡±
¡°Mr. Nelson,¡± Belinda interrupted, taking a deep breath. ¡°Aren¡¯t you keeping up with the news from Nawrin? I¡¯m no longer married to Kristopher.¡±
There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line before Donovan¡¯sughter broke through, cold and mocking. ¡°What¡¯s this joke you¡¯re telling? You and Mr. Cox are divorcing?¡± His voice sharp with disbelief, he recalled past promises. ¡°Remember¡ªwhen Mr. Cox first regained consciousness? He vowed never to forget your devotion after you cared for him for six months. He wouldn¡¯t just turn you away¡¡±
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Belinda cut in sharply. ¡°I¡¯m the one who asked for the divorce.¡±
¡°Impossible!¡± Donovan interjected before she could exin further, hisughter cold and mocking once again. ¡°You adore Mr. Cox, always ready to cater to his every need. You were even willing to marry him while he wasatose. How can you now im you want a divorce?¡± He paused, his tone bing cold. ¡°You must be fabricating excuses just to avoid buying a gift for Gillian¡¯s birthday and bringing Mr. Cox along. Your excuse isughably weak!¡±
Belinda remained silent. Instead of responding, she sent a link to the news article about her divorce with Kristopher directly to Gillian. Almost instantly, an astonished exmation burst from the phone, ¡°They really got divorced!¡±
Belinda was unfazed by Gillian¡¯s reaction. She had specifically sent the link to Gillian instead of Donovan because she knew Gillian and Kasey Nelson, Belinda¡¯s biological mother, would be eavesdropping on Donovan¡¯s call.
¡°Did they really get divorced?¡± At that moment, the Nelsons, preupied with their phone call, abruptly turned their attention to Gillian. Their eyes widened in disbelief as they stared at the news on the phone screen. ¡°They actually got divorced!¡±
¡°How did that happen?¡±
. Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n f¦É?dn¦Ïvel
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Chapter 249
?Chapter 249:
Donovan had assumed that Belinda had concocted the story as an excuse. He believed she felt overlooked on her birthday and didn¡¯t want to deal with the hassle of organizing gifts and a cake for Gillian. However, it was actually the truth.
The familial voices from the other end of the phone continued. With a sigh that carried the weight of weariness, Belinda closed her eyes and said, ¡°If you¡¯re questioning the truth of this, feel free to look up thetest reports from Nawrin. It¡¯s been covered by multiple news outlets. I¡¯ve divorced Kristopher and can¡¯t affordvish birthday cakes or expensive gifts, so I won¡¯t be returning tomorrow for the birthday celebration.¡±
She was on the verge of ending the call when Donovan¡¯s uncertain voice stopped her. ¡°Belinda, the reports mentioned¡ you were left with nothing. Was that a misreport, or did you have them phrase it that way to show that money doesn¡¯t matter to you?¡±
¡°I truly ended up with nothing,¡± Belinda replied calmly. ¡°Over these past three years, I haven¡¯t contributed financially. Kristopher earned the money, and I don¡¯t want to benefit without earning it.¡± Fresh chapters posted on Find?Novel
¡°How can you describe that as benefiting without doing anything?¡± Donovan retorted sharply. ¡°You cared for Kristopher for six months while he was incapacitated, managing all the burdensome tasks. When he woke up, you assumed the role of the devoted wife, making sure he looked his best. Your efforts were undeniable. iming a portion of his wealth seems only right!¡± He paused to catch his breath before continuing, ¡°No, I refuse to believe you walked away with nothing. You¡¯re probably scared we might demand some of that money! I¡¯m going to call Kristopher right now and ask him about¡¡±
At the mention of contacting Kristopher, Belinda couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. She grabbed her phone and said with a firm tone, ¡°I¡¯d strongly suggest you reconsider calling Kristopher now. He¡¯s nning to propose to his girlfriend tomorrow. If you wish to disturb him or sabotage his ns, go ahead and call him now to discuss the divorce details.¡±
With that, she couldn¡¯t bear to hear any more from Donovan, so she hung up the phone and switched it off. Silence enveloped the room immediately. She tossed her phone aside and headed for a shower.
Emergingter, she found her phone bombarded with over a dozen missed calls, all from Gillian. Alongside the calls, Gillian had sent a flurry of messages.
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¡°Belinda, I don¡¯t think Cathy is the right match for Kristopher. How about we try to win him back together?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s both try to win him back, okay?¡± ¡°You were with him for three years. Surely there¡¯s still a spark there. I believe you might still have a chance to make things right.¡±
Belinda couldn¡¯t suppress a chuckle as she read the messages. Though she¡¯d only brought Kristopher to the Nelson family a few times over the past three years, Gillian had always made a show of doting on him. Now her motives were clear.
Belinda smirked and responded coldly to Gillian, ¡°If you¡¯re interested in Kristopher, go ahead and chase him. But leave me out of it.¡± No sooner had she sent the message than she received a reply from Gillian. ¡°Really? Can I really go after him?¡±
As Belinda read through Gillian¡¯s ludicrous messages, she couldn¡¯t suppress a chuckle. She wondered whether Gillian was overly self-assured or simply dismissive of Cathy. Despite this, she couldn¡¯t help but admire Gillian¡¯s audacity. With a yful smirk, she typed back with mock solemnity, ¡°Of course, if you¡¯re into him, absolutely go for it.¡±
After sending the message, Belinda spent some time exploring various jewelry design websites and watching videos that dissected thetest fashion trends. Before she knew it, she had drifted off to sleep.
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Chapter 250
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The next morning, she awoke to find her phone, which had been streaming videos throughout the night, was scorching hot. With a frown, she set her phone aside and noticed a new message from Fred. Anticipating it might concern Kristopher and Cathy, she quickly opened it, only to find a smiling emoji followed by two words: ¡°Happy Birthday!¡±
Startled, Belinda paused for a moment, then replied to Fred with a resigned tone, ¡°Actually, the birthday on my profile is wrong. It was two days ago. But thanks for the wishes!¡±
Time passed, and soon Fred sent another message. ¡°Looks like I missed your birthday, so here¡¯s a bted happy birthday wish. However, I¡¯ve got a present for you. It¡¯s not your birthday today, but I¡¯d still like to give it to you.¡±
Belinda¡¯s brow creased in curiosity as she typed back, ¡°What kind of gift?¡±
With a smirking emoji, Fred replied, ¡°You¡¯ll see soon enough.¡±
¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll thank you now for whatever this birthday surprise is.¡± After sending her gracious response, Belinda inhaled deeply, rose from her seat, prepared herself, and left for work.
At the office, once she had clocked in, she settled back into her usual editing tasks at her desk. Engrossed in her work, shepletely lost track of the hours slipping by.
It wasn¡¯t until Darren came by her desk and reminded her that it was time to go home that Belinda realized she had spent the entire day buried in design drafts.
Stretching and yawning, Belinda gathered her belongings and stepped out of the office, only to receive a call from Madisyn the moment she was free.
¡°Belinda, guess what justnded in my hands? An invitation from Kristopher¡¯s assistant!¡±
Belinda furrowed her brows in confusion. Why would Kristopher invite Madisyn? Aside from Belinda, Madisyn had no significant ties to Kristopher. It was logical for Kristopher to invite Belinda to the ceremony¡ but why also Madisyn?
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On the phone, Madisyn sounded clearly upset. ¡°Kristopher must have lost his mind, don¡¯t you think? He¡¯s about to propose to Cathy. Yet now, not only does he want to invite you, his ex-wife, but also me, your close friend? Is he not satisfied until the whole world sees him bask in his joy with Cathy? Doesn¡¯t he realize I have a short fuse? Isn¡¯t he worried I might disrupt his engagement ceremony and stop him from marrying Cathy?¡±
¡°Why don¡¯t we both go and find out?¡± Belinda paused for a moment, taking a deep breath. ¡°Since he¡¯s invited you, and I¡¯m without a date tonight, why not join me?¡±
¡°That¡¯s exactly what I was thinking,¡± Madisyn responded with augh on the line. ¡°Belinda, we really are best friends, on the same wavelength! I¡¯ve already picked out my dress. I¡¯m curious to see this borate proposal setup Kristopher has been nning for Cathy for over a month!¡±
Belinda and Madisyn arrived at the Summit Hotel, only to realize that the engagement ceremony was already underway.
The entrance was festively decorated with balloons and flowers, creating a celebratory atmosphere. Yet, something seemed off.
Madisyn¡¯s expression soured as she noticed the message on a bouquet at the entryway. ¡°Happy Birthday!¡± Her brows knitted in confusion. ¡°This should say ¡®Congrattions on your engagement,¡¯ right? Why does it say ¡®Happy Birthday¡¯?¡± She shook her head, dismayed at the apparent oversight. ¡°Kristopher¡¯s team really dropped the ball. How could they mix up such an obvious detail?¡±
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Chapter 251
?Chapter 251:
Meanwhile, Belinda scanned the area, spotting more ribbons that echoed the same birthday wishes. She raised an eyebrow, skeptical of the repeated error. ¡°This doesn¡¯t seem like a simple mistake.¡± Considering Kristopher¡¯s role as the CEO of a globalpany, with numerouspetent assistants, a blunder of this nature seemed improbable unless¡
¡°What exactly is happening here?¡± Madisyn bit her lip in thought. ¡°Could it be Cathy¡¯s birthday today? But I remember her birthday falls in winter, and here we are at the start of summer¡ Could I be mistaken?¡± As she spoke, Madisyn pulled out her phone to check the date of Cathy¡¯s birthday.
Belinda, d in the same red dress she had worn the day before, surveyed the decorations of the venue, and a preposterous thought struck her. Could all this effort by Kristopher actually be¡ for her birthday?
Given Kristopher¡¯s persistent invitations and the fact that he had even purchased a dress for her, this suspicion took root.
However, today wasn¡¯t her birthday. Over their three-year marriage, they hadn¡¯t gone all out for birthdays, but Belinda always made it a point to bake a cake and prepare a feast at home. Kristopher¡¯s presents were invariablyst-minute, yet he had celebrated a few birthdays with her.
Could it really be that after three years, he had forgotten her actual birthday? This thought lingered as she recalled the message from Fred that morning.
Fred, who had only known her briefly, relied solely on her social media profile to keep track of her birthday. A mix-up from him was forgivable.
If Kristopher was truly celebrating her birthday today, it would be incredibly ironic.
As Belinda was deep in thought, a taunting voice interrupted her. ¡°And you actually showed up.¡±
Maggie walked up to Belinda with a sneer, her gaze sweeping over Belinda¡¯s vibrant red outfit and Madisyn¡¯s more subdued blue dress. ¡°You both seem to think it¡¯s your special night, but sadly, you¡¯re not the stars this evening.¡±
She casually flipped a strand of hair from her forehead. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I be thanking you for being here to see Cathy¡¯s joyous asion?¡±
Madisyn shot Maggie a frosty look. ¡°Then you¡¯d better ask Cathy to thank us in person.¡±
Maggie¡¯s expression turned icy. ¡°Really? You think you matter that much?¡± Checktest chapters at Find¡ïNovel
She red at both Madisyn and Belinda, her tone turning sharp. ¡°Listen, Kristopher is going to propose to Cathy tonight. If you try to stir up any trouble, I won¡¯t let it slide!¡±
Belinda¡¯s brows knit together as she watched Maggie¡¯s assured demeanor. ¡°Maggie, are you sure¡ that tonight¡¯s event is Kristopher proposing to Cathy?¡±
¡°Absolutely!¡± Maggie¡¯s voice dripped with sarcasm as she shot Belinda a derisive look. ¡°What, do you imagine yourself to be the one being proposed to?¡±
¡°Well then, can you exin this?¡± Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed as she pointed to the nearby ribbons. ¡°Why does it say ¡®Happy Birthday?''¡±
Hearing this, Maggie suddenly realized that all the decorations at the event were indeed for a birthday. She blinked in surprise. ¡°What on earth is happening here?¡±
With so many aides working for Kristopher, how could theymit such a basic blunder?
At that moment, Kristopher appeared from behind the scenes.
¡°Kristopher!¡± Cathy, with her keen eyes, was the first to spot him. She quickly stepped forward, looping her arm through his, and shed a dazzling smile as she turned to face the crowd. In the background, reporters began snapping photos nonstop, the sound of camera shutters filling the entire hall.
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Chapter 252
?Chapter 252: Original content can be found at Find[?]ovel
¡°The proposal has started!¡± Maggie announced, momentarily distracted from the birthday mix-up, her eyes alight with excitement. She watched the couple intently from afar. ¡°Cathy¡¯s really about to steal the spotlight!¡±
Turning to Belinda, she shot her a dismissive look. ¡°Just keep out of trouble, will you?¡±
Madisyn rolled her eyes at Maggie, her voice dripping with sarcasm. ¡°So the jerk and his girl are together now. We can¡¯t be even happier. Who¡¯d even think about stopping them at a time like this?¡±
Belinda¡¯s expression turned pensive as she unconsciously reached for a ss of juice. She took a sip, held the cup in her hand, and watched the unfolding scene from afar. She was curious about what Kristopher was up to tonight.
Kristopher was quick to notice the sound of camera shutters snapping. A frown marred his features, betraying his annoyance. He had intended to keep this gathering low-key, inviting only close friends and family members of him and Belinda. The presence of so many reporters was unexpected and unwee.
¡°I invited them,¡± Cathy confessed, aware of his dislike for the press. She sensed his growing irritation and, fearing it might spoil his mood for the uing proposal, she hurried to justify herself in a hushed tone. ¡°It¡¯s an important moment, Kristopher. I wanted it caught on camera.¡±
As she spoke, she clung to Kristopher¡¯s arm, her demeanor yful yet pleading. ¡°You don¡¯t mind it, do you? I¡¯m a star, and it¡¯s helpful to my job, my career¡ Besides, with my illness, I¡¯ve been out of the spotlight far too long.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown eased as Cathy mentioned her health struggles. He gave her a look that mixed understanding with concern. ¡°Cathy, not every moment needs to be captured. You know, sometimes¡¡±
Before he couldplete his words, the entire venue was suddenly swallowed by darkness.
The abrupt ckout took everyone by surprise. Immediately, a blend of women¡¯s screams and men¡¯sforting voices filled the air, creating a chaotic uproar.
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Madisyn quickly sped Belinda¡¯s hand, her voice a whisper. ¡°Do you think it¡¯s a power outage? How odd.¡±
Belinda¡¯s expression turned into a frown as she clenched the juice ss in her other hand. The decorations about celebration for a birthday¡ Then the unexpected ckout. Her bizarre premonition intensified.
Without warning, a memory from two years ago shed through her mind: Anthony had requested Kristopher to organize a wedding for her, but Kristopher¡¯s response wasced with impatience. ¡°I have no emotional attachment to her. At best, I¡¯ll host a birthday banquet when it¡¯s her birthday ¡ª nothing more than a polite gesture.¡± With a scoff, Belinda dismissed the memory. She had believed Kristopher¡¯s dismissive words would nevere true.
Yet, at that moment, a sudden re of light appeared in the distance. All eyes turned towards it. Marc and the other assistants were navigating through the crowd, pushing a three-tiered cake and singing the birthday song as they approached.
¡°Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you¡¡±
The voices of the assistants blended together as the birthday song red through the speakers, filling the venue.
Madisyn¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. ¡°What¡¯s happening here?¡± she asked. ¡°Could this be another mix-up?¡±
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Chapter 253
?Chapter 253:
First, the greetings, and now even the song¡ªintended for a proposal¡ªwaspletely wrong. And what was with the lights suddenly dimming and the cake being wheeled in? It all seemed orchestrated for a birthday party.
It certainly didn¡¯t look like a proposal scene at all.
Confusion clouded Madisyn¡¯s thoughts. ¡°Is¡ it actually someone¡¯s birthday today?¡±
Belinda exhaled deeply, closing her eyes. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s for my birthday.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s eyes widened even further in surprise.
After a moment, it dawned on her, and she smacked her forehead. ¡°Of course! Your official birthday is today, isn¡¯t it?¡±
Despite knowing Belinda for years and celebrating her real birthday, the date on her identity documents had slipped Madisyn¡¯s mind until now.
As Madisyn mulled over this, she couldn¡¯t help but furrow her brows. ¡°If Kristopher is indeed throwing a birthday party for you, then this ispletely ridiculous¡¡±
The meticulous nning and setup for the birthday event weremendable¡ However, the mix-up with the date was inexcusable!
Having been married to Belinda for three years, Kristopher should have known her well enough. If he truly cared for her, such a mistake would be unthinkable, right?
And considering they were now divorced, why would he even think about hosting a birthday party for his ex-wife?
¡°Wrong, all wrong!¡± In the midst of the confusion, Maggie couldn¡¯t contain herself and blurted out loudly.
As she yelled, Maggie hurriedly instructed someone to illuminate the venue. ¡°Marc, what on earth are you up to? It¡¯s all a mess!¡± With hermand, the lights abruptly flooded the space.
Flustered, Maggie dashed toward Marc, skirt in hand. She jabbed a finger in his direction and berated him. ¡°What the hell are you doing? You¡¯ve turned the event announcements into birthday wishes, which is absurd enough. And now a birthday song? Who ys a birthday song during a marriage proposal? Have all the assistants lost their minds?¡±
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Marc looked at her, baffled. ¡°Miss Cox, I¡¯m lost. What are you referring to? What proposal?¡± His confusion was palpable. ¡°Wasn¡¯t today supposed to be a celebration of Belinda¡¯s birthday?¡±
¡°I¡¯m telling you, this is all wrong!¡± Maggie¡¯s cheeks zed red with fury. She turned her head and red at Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher, look at what your assistant has done!¡±
¡°Just stay calm, Maggie.¡± Before Kristopher could utter another word, Cathy intervened.
Her face betrayed a touch of anxiety, but her voice remained soothing. With reporters broadcasting live, she had to project a serene and polished demeanor despite her annoyance. ¡°Marc is probably overwhelmed with his duties. A slip-up is understandable. Don¡¯t be too angry. I¡¯m not bothered by it.¡±
With that, she turned gracefully to Kristopher, standing just behind her. ¡°Kristopher, even though Marc slipped up, it¡¯s not his fault. I¡¯m not upset about the mix-up with the venue and the introductions.¡±
¡°Cathy, what are you talking about?¡± Kristopher¡¯s brow creased in bewilderment as he gazed at Cathy. ¡°Marc didn¡¯t mess up.¡±
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Chapter 254
?Chapter 254:
His deration caught Cathy off guard, her expression turning stone-cold.
¡°Yeah, I didn¡¯t make a mistake.¡± From a distance, Marc looked confused. ¡°Today is Miss Nelson¡¯s birthday. I organized the birthday party exactly as Mr. Cox instructed¡ What did I do wrong?¡±
The moment Marc dropped the bombshell, the venue was instantly filled withmotion.
All eyes shifted to Belinda, and murmurs spread throughout the room.
¡°I had no idea today was Belinda¡¯s birthday¡ No wonder she¡¯s here, dressed in red!¡±
¡°Someone had quietly informed me that today was the day Mr. Cox was going to propose to Cathy. I even brought a present for them!¡±
¡°The moment I saw the ¡®Happy Birthday¡¯ greetings at the entrance, I realized something wasn¡¯t right. And sure enough¡¡±
¡°What Mr. Cox has done really speaks volumes about his kindness. Organizing a birthday banquet for Belinda, even after their divorce, is impressive.¡±
¡°What I heard was that Mr. Cox nned the venue and cake for this birthday banquet over a month ago. They probably just decided to go ahead with it since it was already arranged before the divorce¡¡±
Although these remarks were made as quietly as possible, they were still clearly audible throughout the venue, which wasn¡¯t veryrge. Cathy and Maggie both looked as though they might faint from shock at any moment.
Wanting to protect Cathy¡¯s vulnerable moment, reporters who were close to her quickly ended their live streams. However, a few uninvited reporters continued filming.
Fists clenched so tightly that her nails dug into her palms, Cathy turned toward Kristopher, who was standing beside her. With a hoarse, bitter voice, she forced the words through gritted teeth, ¡°Kristopher¡ So, today is for celebrating Miss Nelson¡¯s birthday, right?¡±
How could this be happening?
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Today was supposed to be the day Kristopher proposed to her! After all, the day he arranged the venue and ordered the cake was the same day she first contacted him, telling him she would be returning to the country!
Therefore, Cathy had naturallye to the conclusion that today was the day Kristopher intended to propose to her.
Moreover, just two days ago, Kristopher had hurriedly divorced Belinda, which Cathy saw as a clear sign of his intention to propose to her today! But now¡
Furrowing his brows slightly, Kristopher nodded and said, ¡°Yeah, I organized this birthday banquet for Belinda since I owe her one.¡± To him, he was fulfilling a promise he had made two years ago in front of Anthony.
Just over a month ago, he had been telling Anthony about how much Belinda had cared for him on the ind, how much he wanted to thank her in a special way.
Anthony had interrupted him mid-sentence and rebuked him for simply promising to organize a birthday banquet for Belinda two years ago, without ever attempting to fulfill it. Anthony had told him to stop talking about thanking Belinda if he wasn¡¯t serious about it. Fresh chapters posted on f?ndnovel
That was when Kristopher remembered his promise. On the spot, he decided to hold a birthday banquet for Belinda, making all the arrangements overnight after confirming when her next birthday would ur.
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Chapter 255
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He had simply never expected¡
In the short span of just over a month, from the start of preparations for this birthday banquet until today, everything had changed. Their rtionship hadpletely transformed.
They had lost their baby and, due to public pressure, had divorced.
¡°Kristopher!¡± Maggie suddenly snapped, her face contorted with fury.
Lifting her skirt, she stormed up to Kristopher and demanded, ¡°What on earth is going on here? Isn¡¯t today the day you were supposed to propose to Cathy? Why is it dedicated to holding a birthday banquet for Belinda?¡±
As she spoke, she red at Belinda and sneered, ¡°Is there anything worth celebrating about her on her birthday?¡±
¡°I indeed have nothing of value to celebrate on my birthday,¡± Belinda immediately replied. Unfazed by Maggie¡¯s intense gaze, she curled her lips slightly and continued, ¡°I also came here believing that Mr. Cox and Miss Miller¡¯s engagement¡¡±
¡°The ceremony was supposed to be held today. If I had the faintest idea that Mr. Cox had nned to celebrate my birthday instead¡¡±
Narrowing her eyes, Belinda concluded firmly, ¡°There¡¯s no way on earth that I would havee.¡±
Belinda¡¯s words ignited chaos throughout the venue, stirring astonishment in every guest. Kristopher¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Belinda.¡±
Even after their divorce, he had meticulously arranged a birthday banquet for her, yet this was her response?
¡°Exactly,¡± Madisyn scoffed. ¡°This entire affaircks any genuine sentiment. Had we known, we wouldn¡¯t have bothered attending!¡±
She had been looking forward to witnessing Kristopher¡¯s proposal to Cathy.
M¦Òr? ¦Ôpd¦Át?s ¨ªn G¦Áln¦Òv?ls.c¦Òm
¡°Miss Thomas, how can you say such a thing!¡± Marc interjected, frowning. ¡°Mr. Cox put a lot of thought into this celebration.¡±
Kristopher had nned every detail over a month ago. Even after their divorce, he insisted that nothing change, ensuring Belindacked for nothing. Justst night, he had canceled several international meetings to take her shopping for an expensive gown.
Marc, who had stood by Kristopher for years, was amazed by his thoughtfulness. This text is hosted at find(?)ovel
¡°Oh, has he?¡± Belinda raised an eyebrow, meeting his inscrutable gaze. ¡°If Mr. Cox had truly thought it through, he wouldn¡¯t have mistaken the date.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brows knit together. ¡°What do you mean?¡±
Belinda felt her heart clench as she held his gaze. With a sniff, she said, ¡°Kristopher, ording to my documents, today is my birthday. But for years, I¡¯ve always celebrated it on the fifteenth. The seventeenth is Gillian¡¯s birthday. We once got our identities mixed up. Don¡¯t you recall?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s face turned pale. He knew Belinda¡¯s history and that she and Gillian did not share a birthday. Yet seeing his expression cut through her like a de, she realized the man she had loved all these years was not who she thought he was.
Kristopher likely believed that organizing a grand birthday celebration would deeply move Belinda, which is why he insisted on her presence. Sadly for him, his well-intentioned actions only felt like hollow gestures.
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Chapter 256
?Chapter 256:
Belinda¡¯s smile took on a sardonic edge as she said, ¡°You¡¯ve never truly celebrated my birthday. Forgetting the date doesn¡¯t surprise me. Just two days ago, Madisyn and Darren made it special, and I was more than happy with how it went. As for today, you can enjoy it without me. I¡¯m leaving.¡±
With that, she pivoted on her heel, the scarlet gown flowing behind her as she walked toward the exit.
Madisyn shot Kristopher a cold nce. ¡°Truly considerate, Mr. Cox. You couldn¡¯t even get the date right. Maybe a little more consideration for thedies would do you well. Despite the divorce, Belinda holds no ill will towards you, but forgetting Miss Miller¡¯s birthday? That would be a disaster!¡±
Madisyn hurried to catch up with Belinda. ¡°Hey, Belinda, how about we grab a drink?¡±
As they left, the room fell into an ufortable silence, and the tension in the air was palpable.
Cathy nervously bit her lip, her eyes locked on Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher, Miss Nelson¡ this has gone far enough.¡±
Just then, Kaya burst in, quickly rying her message. ¡°Something has happened!¡±
Seeing Kaya rushing toward her, Cathy frowned slightly. ¡°What¡¯s the rush about?¡±
¡°There¡¯s trouble!¡± Kaya eximed, thrusting her phone toward Cathy. ¡°Look at this!¡±
Cathy nced at the screen, and her heart skipped a beat.
Someone had leaked sensitive details about the funding and personnel structure of her studio, as well as evidence of her involvement with Kristopher and Cathy, and even the hiring of inte mercenaries to smear Belinda as a third party. The evidence was presented clearly, with stark red text on a white background, documenting events from several days ago all the way to seven o¡¯clock that morning. The details were damning and hard to dispute.
The story about her tarnishing Belinda¡¯s image had been circting for over an hour, initially unnoticed. But after the live broadcast she had staged to garner attention online, the story quickly gained traction. Headlines like ¡°Exposure Of Kristopher and Cathy: Cathy¡¯s Ongoing Deceit¡± and ¡°Thought It Was a Proposal, Actually Celebrating the Ex-Wife¡¯s Birthday¡± were now fueling significant discussion. Beneath these articles, tens of thousands ofizens were activelymenting.
¡°I never saw thising. Cathy always seemed so gentle and intellectual, but secretly, she was orchestrating attacks on Belinda, even going as far as hiring inte trolls after the divorce.¡±
Updates loaded now at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Íe?s
¡°It¡¯s no wonder Belinda faced such harsh criticism recently. Something seemed off. How could an ordinary person attract such animosity? It was the work of a manipted online mob!¡±
¡°Cathy thought it was her proposal night, but it turned out to be a celebration for Kristopher¡¯s ex-wife¡¯s birthday. I couldugh for days. What a mix-up for Cathy!¡±
¡°Think about it¡ªdid Cathy resort to these tactics because she knew Kristopher still harbored feelings for Belinda?¡±
Eachment pierced Cathy¡¯s heart like a dagger.
Herplexion turned ghostly pale.
¡°Cathy, please, try to stay calm!¡± Kaya urged. Follow current nov?ls on FindN0vel
Noticing her difort, Kaya nced worriedly at Kristopher, who was some distance away, and supported Cathy with exaggerated concern. ¡°You look unwell. Please, don¡¯t overexert yourself!¡±
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Chapter 257
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Cathy, catching Kaya¡¯s cue, grasped at her chest, pretending to be breathless, and copsed into Kaya¡¯s waiting arms.
Kaya turned her anxious gaze toward Kristopher. ¡°Mr. Cox, help! Cathy is not well!¡±
Seeing Cathy¡¯s distress, Kristopher rushed over without a second thought. He hurried toward her, sweeping her into his arms with urgency. ¡°Cathy, are you alright?¡±
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
Cradled in his embrace, Cathy¡¯s eyes welled up with tears as she murmured weakly, ¡°It might be because I¡¯m so upset¡ My stomach hurts terribly¡ It¡¯s really painful¡¡±
She appeared utterly pitiful. ¡°The people online are using me wrongly. I didn¡¯t do any of those things¡¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry about that now.¡±
Noticing her near-faint, Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed. He began moving toward the exit, carrying her gently.
¡°Sir,¡± Marc called out, seeing Kristopher heading for the door. ¡°You¡¯re leaving just like this? What about the birthday cake and the banquet¡¡±
Kristopher halted, turning to re at Marc with clear impatience. ¡°Since no birthday is being celebrated today, we¡¯ll cancel it.¡± With that, he resumed his brisk pace, carrying Cathy away.
¡°Kristopher¡¡±
Once outside, Cathy leaned against him, her voice choked with sobs. ¡°Can you help me with the online rumors?¡±
Kristopher frowned as he settled her into the passenger seat of his car and fastened her seatbelt. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that now. You need to focus on getting better.¡±
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¡°But¡¡± Tears spilled over as Cathy spoke. ¡°If those online rumors aren¡¯t addressed soon, my career might be ruined¡ Kristopher, I have less than three months left. I just want to aplish something. I don¡¯t want to leave this world with regrets.¡±
Kristopher paused, his movements slowing. ¡°Don¡¯t talk like that.¡± He took a deep breath and met her gaze firmly. ¡°I¡¯ve found the best stomach cancer specialist in the world for you. I won¡¯t let you die.¡±
¡°It¡¯s so ridiculous!¡± Madisyn eximed as they left the hotel, driving Belinda straight to the bar.
Once they were seated with two sses of red wine in front of them, Madisyn took a sip and patted Belinda on the shoulder. ¡°Even when Kristopher was still your husband, he never thought to celebrate your birthday. Now that you¡¯re divorced, why is he pretending to care? If it¡¯s just for show, couldn¡¯t he at least put in some real effort? Your birthday was two days ago, yet he chooses today to hold a celebration. After three years together, he still doesn¡¯t know when your birthday is. It¡¯s absolutely absurd!¡±
Belinda sat at the bar, nursing her juice and staring nkly at an apple on the counter. After leaving the venue, her mind had cleared considerably.
As she reflected on the situation, she began to understand there might have been some reasoning behind Kristopher¡¯s decision to organize the birthday banquet. Initially, she had believed Maggie and Helen¡¯s conversation at the restaurant about Kristopher nning to propose to Cathy, jumping to conclusions too quickly.
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Chapter 258
?Chapter 258:
But to celebrate her birthday on the wrong date¡ Wasn¡¯t that the most ridiculous thing Kristopher had ever done?
Lost in thought, Belinda was jolted back to reality when her phone rang. An unfamiliar number shed on the screen. Frowning, she answered, ¡°Hello?¡±
¡°Miss Nelson,¡± came a strange male voice. ¡°This is Cyril Tucker, the female patient¡¯s agentwyer. Do you remember me, Miss Nelson?¡±
Caught off guard, Belinda recalled that her previous phone had been water-damaged and was still not fixed. She hadn¡¯t saved many contacts on her new phone.
After a brief pause, she recognized him. ¡°Oh, yes, I remember now.¡± The female patient he mentioned was the woman who wanted to use her medical records.
¡°There¡¯s a special situation,¡± Cyril continued, his voice tense. ¡°My client had a small disagreement with her boyfriend. She¡¯s pretending to be distressed over it. Now she¡¯s in the emergency room at Peace Hospital and needs some patient body indicators from you¡ Could youe to Peace Hospital right now? It¡¯s quite urgent. She¡¯s prepared to offer you generouspensation for this favor. Additionally, her boyfriend is looking for a renowned stomach cancer specialist for her. Considering your potential future dealings, it would be beneficial for you to assist her.¡±
Belinda hesitated, her brow furrowing in thought. After a moment, she nodded to herself. ¡°Okay, I¡¯lle.¡±
Her ns for the evening had been simple¡ªjust to drink with Madisyn. Thest time they drank together, Madisyn had ended up intoxicated, and though Ethel hadn¡¯t voiced her disapproval, Belinda could sense that she wasn¡¯t happy about Madisyn¡¯s drinking.
After hanging up the phone, Belinda quickly fabricated an excuse, iming that a colleague had been hospitalized and she needed to lend a hand.
Madisyn, clearly annoyed, gathered her belongings and grumbled as she left, ¡°You¡¯ve only been at thatpany a few days and you¡¯re already this close to a colleague?¡±
Belinda offered a smile while supporting the tipsy Madisyn out of the bar. ¡°I tend to make good impressions, you know.¡±
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After bidding Madisyn farewell, Belinda exhaled a deep sigh and hailed a taxi to Peace Hospital.
To her astonishment, upon arriving at the hospital and stepping out of the cab, she spotted Kristopher at the entrance, engrossed in a phone conversation. Belinda felt a wave of shock wash over her. Shouldn¡¯t Kristopher be with Cathy at this hour? ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? FindN()vel
Her mind swirling with questions, she furrowed her brows and approached him. From a distance, she caught snippets of Kristopher¡¯s conversation. His deep voice carried across the space. ¡°The source of that news is from the male dormitory at Nawrin University, right? The Physical Education Department¡ Okay, I see.¡±
Belinda¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Nawrin University, Physical Education Department¡ Wasn¡¯t that Fred¡¯s department?
Before Kristopher could finish his phone call, he lifted his head and spotted Belinda a short distance away. He paused mid-sentence.
¡°I¡¯ll call you backter,¡± he said, ending the call and casting a frosty look at Belinda. ¡°What brings you here?¡±
By then, Belinda had changed out of her long red gown and into ck athletic wear, exuding a cool and rxed vibe. She arched an eyebrow as she sauntered toward Kristopher.
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Chapter 259
?Chapter 259:
¡°And you?¡± she said. ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be down on one knee for Miss Miller right about now?¡±
The mention of the proposal made Kristopher¡¯s brow furrow. He had no desire to revisit the absurdity of the evening¡¯s events. Scoffing, he turned to walk away.
¡°Wait!¡± Belinda called sharply. ¡°I overheard you mention the Physical Education Department of Nawrin University¡ What¡¯s that about?¡±
It wasn¡¯t that she was overly curious, but she knew all too well that Kristopher¡¯s life shouldn¡¯t intersect with college students or their PE departments. The only connection she could think of was Fred.
¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Kristopher sneered. ¡°Haven¡¯t you seen his antics online?¡±
Stunned, Belinda pulled out her phone and began searching online, brow furrowed. ¡°What¡¯s going on with Fred?¡± she murmured. Kristopher noticed the flicker of panic on her face, a barely perceptible hint of relief crossing his features. It seemed that the turmoil online had nothing to do with her.
Just then, his phone rang again. After a brief conversation, he ended the call and fixed Belinda with a cold stare. Read full story at f?ndnovel
¡°My team has traced the IP addresses behind the news. One leads to a dormitory at Nawrin University, the other to the PE department training grounds there.¡±
Without another word, he turned and walked away briskly.
Belinda remained still, staring at her phone in disbelief. The news was unexpected. Fred had revealed everything about Cathy hiring people to smear Belinda¡¯s reputation online.
Now,izens were unleashing a storm of insults at Cathy. The negativements,bined with today¡¯s humiliating video from the birthday party, had propelled Cathy to the top of the trending searches.
Belinda knew she should feel victorious, yet recalling Kristopher¡¯s earlier words, her heart sank. Happiness was the furthest thing from her mind.
Fred¡¯s impulsiveness andck of experience were ringly obvious! Belinda and Fred had organized these documents together, but she refrained from sharing them online. Her intention was to present the evidence to awyer to initiate a defamationwsuit against Cathy. However, the premature release of these materials online wouldn¡¯t strengthen her legal case; it could backfire and incite Kristopher instead. Within just thirty minutes of the information going live, Kristopher had already discovered Fred¡¯s involvement.
Your next story is at g¦Á?¦Ç¦Ò¦Í????s
What would Kristopher do to defend Cathy? Belinda shuddered at the thought.
At that moment, Cyril¡¯s call came through again. ¡°Miss Nelson, have you arrived yet?¡±
Taking a deep breath, Belinda replied, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m here.¡±
¡°Head up to the eighth floor using the rear stairs from the first floor. It¡¯s really urgent,¡± Cyril stressed, his tone filled with urgency. ¡°My client¡¯s boyfriend has shown up. If you don¡¯t hurry, I can¡¯t keep up the act much longer.¡±
Without wasting any more time, Belinda swiftly ascended to the eighth floor as instructed.
When she reached the eighth floor, she hadn¡¯t even stepped out of the stairwell before a furious voice greeted her. ¡°Forget about thepany for now. Mr. Cox won¡¯t let the person who wronged Cathy go without consequences. He¡¯s determined to uncover the instigator and deliver harsh punishment! How dare anyone cross Cathy? They¡¯re practically signing their own death warrant!¡±
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Chapter 260
Chapter 260:
Subconsciously, Belinda nced upward, drawn by a sound above her. At the stairs connecting the ninth and tenth floors, Kaya, Cathy¡¯s agent, leaned casually against the railing. With a mocking smile, she said, ¡°Looks like the truth¡¯s out. The troublemaker happens to be Mr. Cox¡¯s ex-wife¡¯s lover. His ex-wife? She¡¯s just a simpleton from the countryside. What could she possibly know? I¡¯m going to make sure that woman ends up behind bars soon enough. I bet Cathy would love that¡¡±
Kaya¡¯s smugness grew with each word. Shifting her stance, she continued to lean on the railing. But as she turned, a white figure caught her eye below. Though she couldn¡¯t make out who it was, her instincts, honed by years on the job, kicked in. ¡°We¡¯ll pick this upter. We¡¯ve gotpany.¡±
Belinda had hoped to listen in a bit longer, but Kaya¡¯s warning was clear. She had been spotted. Without hesitation, she retreated to the eighth-floor corridor.
¡°You made it!¡±
In the corridor, Cyril burst forth, his face lit up with urgency. He grabbed Belinda, hustling her into a nearby room. ¡°My client¡¯s boyfriend has been cozying up to the director. He¡¯s after her medical records¡ If you hadn¡¯t shown up when you did, they would¡¯ve found everything out!¡±
Belinday on the bed with a frown, staring at the ceiling. ¡°Is her boyfriend a doctor?¡±
¡°No, he isn¡¯t a doctor, but he¡¯s consulted several top doctors for her treatment. He even ns to share her medical data with international experts!¡±
Understanding dawned on Belinda. ¡°Her boyfriend is really devoted to her.¡±
¡°Absolutely.¡±
Cyril grinned. ¡°I heard that when they were younger, my client, Miss Scott, once saved his life. He promised then that he¡¯d do whatever it took to cure her illness¡¡±
Upon reaching the hospital room, the nurse began to check Belinda¡¯s blood pressure and draw her blood. Her recent exertion, having climbed from the first to the eighth floor,bined with her frail health, made the process challenging. Wincing, shemented, ¡°Miss Scott¡¯s boyfriend treats her so well. Why would she deceive him?¡±
Stay tuned for more g??lno¦Íe??s.c?m
If someone treated her that well, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to lie to him. ¡°You just don¡¯t understand,¡± Cyril replied, waving his hand dismissively. ¡°This is all part of Miss Scott¡¯s n. Besides, if she doesn¡¯t feign illness, would you have had the opportunity to receive such excellent medical care? It¡¯s harmless to you anyway. Just y along with her.¡±
Belinda furrowed her brow, considering his words. Eventually, she conceded, realizing the logic in his argument, and ceased her questioning.
Shortly after, the nursepleted the check-up, and Cyril eagerly took the data and left.
Belinda, unsure if Cyril and the so-called Miss Scott needed anything else from her, chose not to leave immediately. Instead, shey back on the bed and began scrolling through her phone.
The inte was abuzz with negative news about Cathy, but it seemed to be subsiding rapidly, likely due to Kristopher¡¯s intervention. Belinda remembered the hurtful rumors that had branded her as a mistress and sighed deeply.
It was clear to her now; the way Kristopher handled a situation showed where his affections trulyy. If only he had quashed the rumors about her with the same vigor he did for Cathy, she wouldn¡¯t still be facing bacsh from the public.
¡°Belinda.¡±
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Message from Noah: New content avable, please enjoy it dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. ¡°?? ????? ??
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Chapter 261
?Chapter 261:
Just then, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Fred. ¡°Did you get the birthday gift I sent you?¡±
Upon receiving Fred¡¯s message, Belinda felt her heart skip a beat. She took a moment to close her eyes and gather herposure. When she reopened them, she responded, ¡°I saw it.¡±
¡°How does that make you feel? Happy?¡± Fred asked, unaware that Kristopher had already been investigating him. He continued, naively confident, sending a voice message. ¡°Belinda, I knew from online rumors that Kristopher was nning to propose to Cathy today. I thought he chose your birthday for the proposal just to upset you. So, I prepared to release some damaging information online right when he proposed to ensure they¡¯d be ruined. But unexpectedly, Kristopher didn¡¯t propose tonight. Instead, he celebrated your birthday. And just like me, he got the date of your birthday wrong!¡±
Listening to Fred¡¯s relentless chatter, Belinda sighed and typed a response. ¡°Kristopher knows you orchestrated everything.¡±
Silence ensued on the other end.
Eventually, Fred replied, ¡°How is that possible?¡±
This time, he chose to text instead of leaving a voice message, but his message conveyed a palpable sense of panic. Belinda could sense that he was getting flustered.
His reaction was understandable. Fred had only posted his usations online half an hour ago. An average person wouldn¡¯t have even started to address such a situation in that time.
But Kristopher, despite being upied with Cathy in the hospital, had swiftly acted.
Kristopher dispatched his team to scour the inte, removing negativements, tracing the origins of the disruptive news, and devising a strategic response.
Their actions were methodical, reflecting a well-orchestrated n. This might be the kind of poise one would expect from the CEO of one of the world¡¯s leading multinational corporations.
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¡°I used software to disguise my IP address!¡± Fred¡¯s message revealed his disbelief that Kristopher had quickly uncovered his deceit. ¡°How could he be this capable?¡±
As Belinda read his words, she sighed softly and exined, ¡°Kristopher has ess to a team of highly skilled programmers and hackers.¡±
She knew that the basic software Fred used to alter his IP address was no match for Kristopher¡¯s tech team. Such rudimentary measures were ineffective against their advanced skills.
Fred was silent for a considerable time. Original content can be found at find(?)ovel
Eventually, he regained hisposure and sent another voice message to Belinda. ¡°I¡¯m not worried. The evidence I¡¯ve posted is genuine, created by people within their own studio. Even if Kristopher were standing right in front of me, I¡¯m still unafraid!¡±
Belinda massaged her temples, feeling a wave of helplessness wash over her.
Fred was still young. He was naively oblivious to the darker, more maniptive sides of human nature.
Did Fred believe that truthfulness alone would shield him from Kristopher¡¯s influence?
Kristopher dominated the entire region of Nawrin. If he chose to retaliate, Fred, merely a college student from a small countryside with no connections, would stand no chance.
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Chapter 262
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With this in mind, Belinda felt a wave of relief and texted back, ¡°I appreciate the birthday gift. I know you meant well. However, please avoid rash actions from now on. I will speak with Kristopher and handle the situation.¡± She then rose from her bed.
Fred¡¯s actions were all meant to support her. She did not wish to see this benevolent young man suffer consequences.
Earlier, as she ascended the stairs, she noticed Cathy¡¯s agent on thending between the ninth and tenth floors. This indicated that Cathy¡¯s hospital ward was likely on one of these floors.
Belinda stored her phone and exited the ward, climbing the stairs to continue her search. She did not locate Cathy on the ninth floor, so she proceeded to the tenth. Readplete version only at
¡°Grandpa, you¡¯ve got it all wrong about Cathy. She¡¯s not the person you think she is!¡±
Upon reaching the tenth floor, even before she could step out of the stairwell, she heard a familiar, deep male voice defending Cathy.
When Belinda reached for the door, she hesitated for a moment. Was Anthony here too? Without realizing it, she squinted and peered through the narrow gap of the slightly ajar door into the corridor. There, Anthony was seated in his wheelchair, his gaze fixed on a document resting on his knees, his expression clouded with concern. Beside him stood Kristopher, who wore a grave look as he exined, ¡°Cathy didn¡¯t leave because she knew about my condition; she left because she was unwell. The news of my vegetative state hadn¡¯t even broken when her ne took off. She truly was unaware of it all.¡±
Anthony remained silent, his brow still furrowed as he absorbed the words on the paper. Undaunted, Kristopher leaned closer, his voice calm but insistent. ¡°I had hoped to bring her to you, to exin everything, but you never allowed her that opportunity. Now that you¡¯re here seeking answers, I willy everything out clearly. She had her reasons¡¡±
From her vantage point, Belinda watched the interaction with a mix of amusement and intrigue. It seemed Kristopher would go to great lengths, exining repeatedly, all for Cathy¡¯s sake. They had shared three years together, yet this was the first asion Belinda had witnessed such humility in Kristopher. Previously, he had never shown such deference. Whenever he failed to sway Anthony, Belinda would feel a pang of sympathy for Kristopher. Unbeknownst to him, she would often step in to mediate and appeal to Anthony on his behalf.
Back then, her humility surpassed what Kristopher now disyed. She found herself exining intricate business terms she barely understood, managing household duties, and attending to Anthony¡¯s every whim. At times, these responsibilities prevented her from going home for days on end. Kristopher remained oblivious to her efforts. He assumed Anthony¡¯s change of heart was spontaneous.
He thought Belinda was merely trying to strengthen her standing as Mrs. Cox by pandering to Anthony. Despite her considerable contributions, she chose not to seek recognition from him, never mentioning her own sacrifices.
¡°So, Cathy left five years ago because of her own health problems?¡± After a brief pause, Anthony looked up and met Kristopher¡¯s gaze with an indifferent expression. In a low, deep voice, tinged with mockery, he asked, ¡°Has her condition improved?¡±
Kristopher lowered his voice and responded, ¡°Not yet. I¡¯ve secured a doctor for her¡¡±
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Chapter 263
?Chapter 263:
¡°Then you must distance yourself from her.¡±
With a scoff, Anthony thrust the documents into Kristopher¡¯s arms and remarked, ¡°Consider Belinda. She is gentle and virtuous, generous and respectable. Above all, she is healthy and vibrant. She¡¯s capable of caring for both you and me, an old man. On the other hand, Cathy struggles with her health and mental well-being¡ She is unfit to be my granddaughter-inw!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s face paled at Anthony¡¯s words. ¡°But Grandpa, you must have seen the news tonight¡ Even though Cathy wrongly believed I was going to propose, she has already made a spectacle of herself in front of everyone¡ Her current emotional instability is tied to that incident.¡±
¡°I will not allow it!¡±
Anthony pped the arm of his wheelchair emphatically and dered, ¡°I want no one but Belinda for you! Since you have divorced Belinda and don¡¯t want to remarry her, then you should remain unmarried for the rest of your life! I will never approve of you marrying anyone else. And I certainly do not like Cathy!¡±
¡°Grandpa!¡± Kristopher called out, his voiceced with urgency and dismay.
Observing Anthony¡¯s unyielding demeanor, Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed as he tried to rify. ¡°I¡¯ve already exined that my intention is simply to engage Cathy and lend her a hand. It¡¯s just a formality, not a realmitment. I have no intention of marrying her. This arrangement won¡¯t harm anyone.¡±
Yet, Anthony remained skeptical. ¡°A pretend engagement? How can I be sure you¡¯re not deceiving me? Now you¡¯re using the excuse of an engagement to ¡®help¡¯ her. What¡¯s next? If a simr situation arises, will you marry her under the guise of assistance? Or, even worse, will you im it¡¯s a sham marriage after the fact?¡±
His gaze hardened as he addressed Kristopher. ¡°I didn¡¯te to the hospital to be fed lies. I came here for your apology to Belinda. You promised her a birthday celebration, yet you did nothing. After your divorce, you even messed up the dates. What a spectacle¡ Three years of marriage and you can¡¯t even recall her birthday!¡±
Kristopher remained silent, his gaze downcast. He had made the hotel arrangements over a month earlier, recalling that Belinda¡¯s birthday fell on the 15th. However, when he asked Marc for help, Marc corrected him, stating that it was the 17th. Trusting Marc¡¯s correction, Kristopher changed the booking, only toter realize his initial memory had been urate.
¡°Given Miss Miller¡¯s severe illness, I shouldn¡¯t stay any longer,¡± Anthony dered, noticing Kristopher¡¯s reticence. He waved dismissively and added, ¡°This hospital specializes in treating serious conditions like tumors and cancer. It¡¯s not suitable for someone of my age to linger. I¡¯m heading back now. As for your engagement scheme, I strongly advise against it. Let it go. And don¡¯t forget to apologize to Belinda!¡±
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With that, Anthony directed his wheelchair toward the elevator. Kristopher watched as Anthony rolled away, the silence hanging in the hallway before he finally spoke in a hushed tone. ¡°Grandpa¡¡±
He hesitated, his voice uncertain. ¡°If¡ I mean, if Belindaes to you and pleads for me and Cathy, would you consider it?¡±
The quiet in the corridor deepened at Kristopher¡¯s words.
Anthony, who had been navigating his wheelchair, halted abruptly and turned, his eyes widening in astonishment.
Meanwhile, Belinda, hidden at the stairway, clutched the doorknob, her heart racing. What was Kristopher thinking? Did he really expect her to approach Anthony and ask for his approval of his engagement to another woman? Was he out of his mind, or did he think she was?
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¡°What? What are you suggesting?¡± Anthony demanded, spinning around to face Kristopher. His gaze was sharp, confusion written on his weathered face. ¡°When you were with Belinda, you often had her speak on your behalf. Now that you¡¯re divorced, you expect her to do the same for your new engagement?¡±
Kristopher stood still, his expression unreadable. ¡°All I¡¯m asking is whether you¡¯d agree if she came to you,¡± he stated tly.
Consumed by anger, Anthony mmed the armrest of his wheelchair. ¡°You scoundrel! This is between us. Why drag Belinda into it? Hasn¡¯t she done enough for you? You¡¯re divorced. Why can¡¯t you just let her go?¡±
Kristopher sneered. ¡°I was deceived about the divorce. She promised we¡¯d remarry, so I agreed. Then she backed out, tricked me.¡± He looked defiantly into Anthony¡¯s eyes. ¡°She owes me.¡±
Belinda¡¯s grip on the doorknob tightened as she overheard. How effortlessly he lied! He had agreed to the divorce, not out of honesty, but to shield Cathy from scandal. And now, he was iming betrayal?
Anthony eyed him with suspicion. ¡°What are you implying? Did you really intend to remarry Belinda after the divorce?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Kristopher said, his voice rough. ¡°She was a good wife, and I never nned to leave her.¡±
Belinda bit her lip, the sting sharp as her nails dug into her palm. He had no love for her, no affection. His refusal to divorce wasn¡¯t born from love, but obligation. She had been apetent wife, nothing more.
¡°You had no intention of leaving her? So why are you so close to Cathy? And now you even n to engage Cathy?¡± Anthony¡¯s tone was incredulous. After a brief pause, he continued, ¡°Do you think I would ept your sham engagement to Cathy just because of your exnation? Absolutely not!¡± Chapters first released on find?novel
With that, he turned and pressed the elevator button. Kristopher persisted. ¡°You haven¡¯t answered¡ªwould you agree if she pleaded with you?¡±
Anthony stopped, his hand frozen over the button. He sighed. ¡°Kristopher, we both know Belinda loves you deeply, enough to do anything for you. But don¡¯t push her too far.¡±
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After a moment, he added, ¡°If Belindaes to beg me, I might agree. But have you considered what it means if you really make her beg me for this?¡±
¡°She will never love you again. You im it¡¯s a pretend engagement with Cathy, but are you willing to lose Belinda forever just like that?¡±
As Anthony finished speaking, the elevator dinged. He stepped inside and departed without a backward nce. The doors slid shut, and the hallway was left in silence.
Just then, the door to the ward swung open. Cathy¡¯s agent emerged, her expression anxious. She hurried over to Kristopher and said, ¡°Mr. Cox, Cathy is still agitated. She¡¯s been given a tranquilizer, but she¡¯s still talking about suicide as soon as she wakes up. You mentioned a willingness to propose and get engaged to her¡ Is that true? If so, I¡¯ll tell her ¡ª it might calm her down. If not, I won¡¯t say anything to avoid upsetting her further.¡±
Kristopher sighed deeply, his gaze distant. ¡°Tell her we will be engaged.¡±
When Kristopher confirmed his agreement, the agent was visibly thrilled.
¡°Great!¡± she eximed, her voice ringing with excitement. However, she quickly realized her outburst may have been too much, andposed herself. ¡°I¡¯m going to share this wonderful news with Cathy right away! She¡¯ll be so overjoyed, I bet it¡¯ll speed up her recovery!¡± With that, she turned on her heel, a bounce in her step as she headed for the ward.
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¡°Wait!¡± Kristopher¡¯s voice halted her progress. He hesitated briefly before continuing. ¡°Please let her know it might take a bit of time. There¡¯s¡ something I have to arrange with my grandfather first.¡±
The agent paused, processing his words. ¡°I understand¡ that¡¯s fine,¡± she replied, managing a strained smile. ¡°I¡¯m sure it won¡¯t pose any issue, Mr. Cox. Cathy can wait, I believe.¡±
Then she turned and moved swiftly toward the ward.
Meanwhile, Kristopher stood motionless, his gaze fixed on the ward¡¯s direction, his face a mask of stoic contemtion.
Belinda, who had observed the entire exchange, couldn¡¯t suppress a sneer. Only moments ago, in front of Anthony, Kristopher had dered his engagement to Cathy a mere convenience, a temporary solution¡ Why did he feel the need to invite Anthony to a fake engagement? Was it really necessary for his family toe and give their blessing at a staged event?
As he stood in the corridor, a frown marred Kristopher¡¯s features. Abruptly, he turned, his piercing gaze locking onto the stairway door. The intensity of his stare sent a jolt of panic through Belinda. Instinctively, she stepped back, trying to blend into the shadows behind the door.
Why was he looking this way all of a sudden? Could he have spotted her? Impossible! She was sure she had concealed herself well enough.
¡°Belinda.¡± Kristopher¡¯s cold tone cut through her frantic thoughts. Frozen behind the door, Belinda was unable to move, as if under a spell. Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n find?novel
She reluctantly lifted her gaze toward Kristopher.
By now, he had approached and was pulling open the metal door. Gripping the doorknob tightly, Belinda braced herself, praying he hadn¡¯t seen her. The difort of overhearing her ex-husband¡¯s conversation was bad enough, but the subject being her added an extrayer of embarrassment.
¡°I know you¡¯re behind the door,¡± Kristopher announced with a snort.
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The moment he finished, he swung the metal door open. Their eyes locked immediately. Trapped, Belinda had no choice but to face him and muster a weak, ¡°Hello.¡±
¡°Since when did you pick up the bad habit of eavesdropping?¡± he asked, leaning casually against the wall, arms crossed, an amused look in his eyes. ¡°I figured you¡¯de out during my chat with grandpa. You really are patient.¡±
¡°You¡ You knew I was there all along?¡± Belinda¡¯s voice was tinged with surprise as she looked up at him.
Kristopher simply smiled faintly, choosing to remain silent.
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion. ¡°When you asked Anthony if he would agree to help if I begged him for you and Cathy¡ was it because you knew I was listening?¡±
Kristopher raised an eyebrow, a slight smirk ying on his lips. ¡°Not exactly. I really want you to persuade him to ept Cathy.¡±
Belinda was momentarily taken aback.
Without thinking, she looked up and locked eyes with Kristopher, whose gaze was intense.
A slight tension gripped her heart.
Having lived with him for three years, she knew Kristopher too well. Such a look from him signaled that his words were serious.
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He genuinely wanted her, his ex-wife, to intercede with his grandfather regarding his new proposal.
With this thought, Belinda lifted her gaze, meeting Kristopher¡¯s eyes with a frosty re.
¡°Don¡¯t you think your request is both over the top and absurd?¡±
The downfall of their marriage wasrgely due to Cathy.
Moreover, after her divorce from Kristopher, Belinda was no longer a part of the Cox family. Why should she concern herself with their affairs?
¡°Maybe you¡¯re right.¡± Kristopher¡¯s prating gaze held firmly on Belinda¡¯s face.
¡°But Grandpa has always favored you. Over the years, there have been many times he wouldn¡¯t be swayed by me, yet he always listened to you. You are the best person to convince Grandpa about this.¡±
A pang of sadness touched Belinda¡¯s heart.
Kristopher only saw that Anthony listened to her, that she could influence him in ways he couldn¡¯t.
But he never pondered why Anthony, who was not her direct rtive, would take her counsel so willingly. Was it merely because she had been his granddaughter-inw?
Beneath all of Anthony¡¯s ¡°affection¡±y three years of Belinda¡¯s consistent care and attention toward him.
Each time, Anthony consented to Kristopher¡¯s requests after witnessing the dedication andmitment she showed.
Kristopher was oblivious to her behind-the-scenesbor and effort, assuming Anthony¡¯spliance was simply because he favored her.
Belinda found this tragically humorous.
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After three years, even a stone cradled in one¡¯s arms should warm. But Kristopher had not only overlooked her struggles but also taken them for granted.
Now, after the divorce, when a situation involved Anthony, his first impulse was still to turn to his former wife for help.
With this realization, Belinda took a deep breath.
¡°I refuse. This is a matter between you and Cathy. We¡¯re divorced, and I have no duty to assist you.¡±
She turned to descend the stairs, but Kristopher¡¯s cold, resonant voice stopped her.
¡°Belinda.¡±
Just two steps down, his words froze her in her tracks.
¡°Do you remember why you came here to find me?¡±
Her mind raced. She hade here to find him¡ She wanted to protect Fred and needed Kristopher to release him.
Seeing her pause, Kristopher, visibly irritated, adjusted his tie and followed her down the staircase. He stopped two steps beneath her and turned to face her.
Kristopher¡¯s tall,manding presence always made Belinda look up when they spoke.
But now, with him standing two steps below, their eyes met at the same level.
From this proximity, he could clearly read every expression on her face.
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Belinda felt a wave of difort.
She instinctively stepped back. Readplete version only at find?novel
Kristopher stepped forward, maintaining the same alignment between them.
Her brow creased, and as she moved to step back again, Kristopher cornered her against the wall beside the staircase.
In a bid to prevent her escape, he leaned close, pinning her to the wall. The firmness of his body pressed against hers, pushing her spine against the cold, stark wall. Belinda instinctively frowned.
This closeness made her want to resist.
Without thinking, she tried to push him away, but Kristopher restrained her hands above her head.
Trapped, with her arms held fast, Belinda could only look at him with fierce anger and demand, ¡°Let go of me!¡±
Just then, Belinda¡¯s phone rang.
Kristopher, quick on his feet, snatched the phone from her pocket. When he saw the name ¡°Fred¡± sh on the screen, his expression darkened.
The sight of this name made him feel irritated, a wave of frustration rising within him.
¡°Is it Fred?¡±
Kristopher nced at the name on the phone screen, then at the clock. With a measured pause, he looked up, meeting Belinda¡¯s gaze with a frosty expression. ¡°Do I need to remind you it¡¯s ten o¡¯clock at night? Why is he calling sote?¡±
Belinda¡¯s breath caught. Despite their divorce, Kristopher spoke with a tone that suggested she was still ountable to him, as if she had been the one to betray their vows.
At that moment, the call disconnected. Before Belinda could recover, the phone rang once more; Fred¡¯s name shed again.
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Kristopher looked at her, his voice steady but cool. ¡°It seems he¡¯ll persist unless you answer.¡±
As he reached out, Kristopher subconsciously moved to press the answer button on the phone.
Belinda¡¯s eyes widened in sudden panic. She instinctively reached out to snatch the phone away. ¡°No!¡± She knew exactly why Fred was calling.
Thest thing she had told Fred when she walked out of the hospital room was that he couldn¡¯t act recklessly in the future and that she would handle things with Kristopher.
Fred was a young man, full of life and energy. He was likely calling to rify things about their rtionship and to urge her not to interfere in his life any longer.
If Kristopher were to answer the call, an argument between them would surely erupt. Instead of helping Fred, she would only seed in making things worse between him and Kristopher.
Belinda hadn¡¯t realized that her anxious behavior only served to deepen the chill in Kristopher¡¯s eyes. ¡°Why?¡±
Hisrge hand closed around her phone. ¡°In the past, I could have answered any of your calls,¡± he said. ¡°You had no secrets from me.¡±
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If he chose, he could answer any call and speak with any of her friends or rtives. Yet now, as he tried to answer a call while she watched, she reacted with obvious nervousness. Did Fred mean that much to her?
¡°But the past is the past!¡± Belinda struggled to free her hands from his firm grip, but she couldn¡¯t.
Overwhelmed by frustration, she finally eximed, ¡°Kristopher, must I remind you again? We are divorced! Our marriage is a thing of the past, and I am now your ex-wife!¡±
At this, Kristopher let out a cold scoff. ¡°What if I want to answer this call for my ex-wife?¡±
As he spoke, his hand moved again toward the answer button.
¡°Kristopher!¡± At the critical moment, Belinda raised her voice, her tone grave, her face pale. ¡°Don¡¯t force me to hate you!¡±
Kristopher¡¯s hand, poised to press the button, halted abruptly. His expression soured as he looked from her to the phone in his grasp. After a tense moment, his face set in an icy mask, and he tossed the phone back to Belinda. ¡°Boring.¡± Content originallyes from F¦ÉndNovel
With those two words, he turned and took a few steps up to thending above. Leaning against the wall, he pulled out a cigarette. With a sharp ¡°snap,¡± he lit it. The smell of tobo quickly permeated the stairwell.
Belinda frowned at him, then gently covered the phone¡¯s receiver and answered the call. ¡°Fred?¡±
¡°Belinda, bad news!¡± Fred¡¯s voice came through the phone, tinged with urgency. ¡°I just went out and saw a group of people in ck going door to door in the dormitory, asking everyone if they know which room I live in¡ Do you think Kristopher sent them?¡±
The voice on the phone caused Belinda to instinctively furrow her brow. She swiveled her head, catching a glimpse of Kristopher huddled in the corner with a cigarette. The stairwell, dim and filled with a haze of smoke, obscured her view of his face.
Belinda¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°Stay out of sight. I¡¯ll see what I can do.¡±
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¡°Okay.¡± For the first time, a hint of panic crept into Fred¡¯s voice. ¡°People are knocking on doors up here, and I counted five vans when I looked out the window. Looks like there¡¯s a whole group, maybe a dozen or so, gathered downstairs¡¡±
He hesitated, worry lining his voice. ¡°Belinda, do you think they¡¯re out to get me? I managed to pull most of the info I posted, hoping it¡¯d just fade away. It was all over in less than an hour. It couldn¡¯t have affected Miss Miller too much, right? I figured the worst they¡¯d do was call the police, I¡¯d face a stern talk, maybe a short detention, and end with a public apology¡ But seeing all these people turn up at the university in the dead of night, I didn¡¯t see thising¡¡±
His voice dropped to a whisper. ¡°Belinda, except for you and Madisyn, I don¡¯t have any other friends in Nawrin, and I don¡¯t want to impose on you two sote. Do you have any male friends who coulde over to the dorm and help me find a ce to stay?¡± He hesitated before adding, ¡°I stepped out to grab some water, and now I¡¯m too scared to go back. All I have is my phone. My clothes and wallet are still in my room. I¡¯m hiding in the stairwell right now¡¡±
As she listened to his anxious tone, Belinda¡¯s expression turned into a frown, and she cast a quick look toward Kristopher. He was still there, casually leaning against the wall and smoking, seemingly in no rush, waiting patiently for her to end the conversation. She remained silent for a moment, then spoke in a subdued voice. ¡°Stay hidden for now. Make sure they don¡¯t find you. Put your phone on silent and avoid making any calls. We need to conserve your battery. I¡¯ll work something out.¡±
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Fred¡¯s voice softened with relief at her words. ¡°Okay, thanks.¡±
Belinda lingered on the line a moment longer. ¡°After all, you did all this for me, and I won¡¯t leave you in the lurch,¡± sheforted him gently. Checktest chapters at find?novel
After hanging up, she straightened up and walked toward Kristopher.
As her footsteps came to a stop, Kristopher flicked his cigarette butt into the trash can and met her gaze with a cold look. ¡°So, was that Fred you were bidding goodnight to at this hour?¡±
¡°What do you think?¡± Belinda¡¯s eyes narrowed, her tone as frosty as her stare. ¡°Do you think Fred can get any sleep tonight with your men lurking around?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion when he saw her serious expression. ¡°What exactly are you suggesting?¡±
Belinda inhaled sharply. ¡°You traced Fred¡¯s IP address. Who else knows about it?¡±
¡°Cathy does too,¡± Kristopher admitted, his frown deepening. He peered at her intently. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±
Belinda sighed, her patience thinning as she borated. ¡°In Fred¡¯s dorm, a group of men in ck suits has been pounding on doors, searching for him. Whoever sent them must know what he posted online earlier.¡±
Kristopher hesitated, his voice low. ¡°I didn¡¯t send anyone after him.¡±
Belinda locked eyes with him, determination clear in her voice. ¡°That leaves only two people who could have: you or Cathy. If it wasn¡¯t you, then it must have been Miss Miller.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t make false usations.¡±
After hearing Belinda¡¯s suspicions, Kristopher¡¯s eyebrows furrowed deeply. ¡°Cathy is devastated and seriously ill from the bacsh online, and her life is in danger right now. Moreover, she¡¯s inherentlypassionate and would never think of hurting someone just because a college student posted alleged evidence on the inte.¡± He looked at Belinda before him. ¡°I know you have your reservations about Cathy and that you don¡¯t like her, but there¡¯s no need to portray her as a viin.¡±
As he spoke, his eyes conveyed deep belief and earnestness. He had unwavering faith in Cathy. Regardless of what Cathy imed, he would ept it. No matter her actions, in his view, she remained an innocent, gentle, and kind-hearted person.
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Belinda suddenly felt it was all so futile. The truth was evident, yet all she received in response was ¡°Don¡¯t make false usations.¡±
In his eyes, Belinda¡¯s justified concerns about Cathy were dismissed as unfounded allegations and defamation.
¡°Alright, I got it wrong.¡±
She no longer wanted to continue the conversation. ¡°You¡¯re right. I came here to plead for Fred¡¯s sake.¡±
Taking a deep breath, she continued, ¡°I¡¯ll try to persuade Anthony to approve your engagement with Cathy. Regarding the incident online tonight, I¡¯ll have Fred issue a public apology from his ount. Leave him out of this.¡±
With those words, she turned and moved past him, heading toward the stairs.
Kristopher watched her go, clearly surprised. ¡°Where are you going at this hour?¡±
He expected that after his remarks, Belinda would engage as she typically would, offering some rebuttal. But she remained silent, merely acknowledging her mistake before departing.
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¡°I¡¯m off to see Fred.¡±
She paused but didn¡¯t turn around. ¡°He¡¯s in trouble online because of me, and now those men in ck have shown up at his dorm. I can¡¯t just do nothing while he¡¯s at risk.¡±
Then, she resumed her stride down the stairs.
Kristopher frowned and quickly caught up, grabbing her wrist in a few quick steps. ¡°You¡¯re going to see him? It¡¯s past ten at night, and you¡¯re heading to a men¡¯s dorm to rescue him?¡±
¡°What other choice do I have?¡±
Belinda red, turning to look coldly at his hand gripping her wrist. ¡°Am I supposed to let those men in ck take him away? He has no connections or influence in Nawrin, just his college friends and professors, not even family. If those people¡¡±
Belinda stopped, struggling to voice the worst possibilities. ¡°He exposed the organized cyberbullying against me online as a birthday gift, seeking justice for me. Should I simply allow him to face retaliation?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s brows knitted together, his voice dropping. ¡°Even if he faces retaliation, it¡¯s because he stepped out of line!¡±
A person without any support challenged Cathy, who was well-connected within Nawrin¡¯s elite circles. Didn¡¯t he think about the potential bacsh before he acted?
¡°He indeed stepped out of line.¡±
Belinda sharply pulled her wrist away from his grip. ¡°But who hasn¡¯t made impulsive decisions when they were young? If I had always stayed in my ce and thought about the consequences three years ago, I never would have married you!¡± Updates are released by f¦É?dn¦Ïvel
With that, she turned and headed toward the eighth floor.
In the past, whenever Belinda faced trouble during her studies, it was Joyce who supported her. Joyce had always said that she couldn¡¯t stand by idly if it involved Belinda. Now, with Fred being targeted because of her, how could she just stand by and let him be captured and harmed?
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Kristopher was persistent and caught up to Belinda once more, grabbing her wrist. But before he could say anything, his phone rang. It was Cathy calling.
Holding Belinda¡¯s wrist with one hand, he answered the call with the other.
¡°Kristopher!¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice came through the phone, filled with sobs. ¡°Where have you gone? I was just looking at engagement rings online and sent Jessa to find you, but she told me you¡¯d left¡¡±
Cathy sounded deeply upset. ¡°Do you regret agreeing to our engagement?¡±
¡°Cathy.¡±
Kristopher, who had been harshly scolding Belinda just moments ago, softened his tone markedly. ¡°I went downstairs for a moment.¡± His voice was gentle, a stark contrast to anything Belinda had heard before. ¡°Pick the engagement ring. Choose whatever you like, andter we can try them all on at the store.¡±
Hearing his words, Cathy¡¯s spirits lifted noticeably, even over the phone. ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s always best to try on rings at a physical store to see how they fit. Kristopher, your thoughtfulness is unparalleled!¡±
Her delighted voice resonated clearly through the dimly lit corridor. Meanwhile, Belinda frowned, attempting to break free from Kristopher¡¯s grasp on her arm. However, he was prepared this time, gripping her firmly despite her efforts to escape.
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Chapter 271
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Trapped, Belinda was forced to listen to Cathy¡¯s sugary voice as she methodically loosened each of Kristopher¡¯s fingers from her arm. It seemed only a woman could truly understand another woman.
She noticed Cathy was intentionally softening and enlivening her voice. The contrived, flirtatious tone made Belinda feel nauseated. Kristopher, however, seemed to savor it.
A slight smile yed across his lips. ¡°I have other matters to handle. All you need to do is be cooperative with your treatment. I¡¯ll apany you to the storeter to try on the ring.¡±
¡°Okay!¡± Cathy¡¯s response was overly yful. ¡°Then I¡¯ll be waiting! It¡¯s gettingte, so drive safely!¡±
By this time, Belinda had managed to free four of Kristopher¡¯s fingers from her arm, with just one remaining for herplete liberation.
Unexpectedly, Kristopher¡¯s focus wasn¡¯t entirely on the call.
¡°Okay, I understand.¡±
While responding tenderly to Cathy, he released his grip momentarily, only to seize Belinda more forcefully.
To prevent her from slipping away again, Kristopher pushed Belinda against the wall, effectively pinning her between his body and the hard surface.
Belinda was caught off guard by the sudden aggression, her back pressed painfully against the wall. The unexpected difort made her involuntarily gasp. The stairwell was eerily quiet, and her faint exmation was unmistakably heard by Cathy over the phone.
Instantly on high alert, Cathy¡¯s voice tensed. ¡°Kristopher, what was that sound? Is there a woman there?¡±
¡°No,¡± Kristopher¡¯s reply was quick, his cold gaze at Belinda carrying a clear warning.
A chill ran through Belinda.
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Kristopher had swallowed Cathy¡¯s fabricated illness without question and had branded Belinda a liar after Cathy¡¯s associates harassed Fred. Yet here she was, merely reacting to the pain from his forceful grip, and he was convinced she was trying to sabotage his rtionship with Cathy.
How preposterous.
¡°Really? No women?¡± Cathy still sounded unsure. ¡°But I thought I heard¡¡±
Kristopher paused, his tone steady. ¡°There are many stray cats around Peace Hospital, all quite plump, likely fed by the medical staff.¡±
Cathy¡¯s suspicions began to wane. ¡°Right. I¡¯ve heard from Dr. Reid that the nurses are fond of feeding the strays¡ Did you perhaps walk past and a cat meowed?¡±
With feigned indifference, Kristopher replied, ¡°I did pass by some stray cats and can¡¯t recall if any of them meowed.¡±
Now reassured, Cathy rxedpletely. She chuckled. ¡°Look at you, such a grown man still getting distracted by roadside cats while walking at night. Just get back to the office and don¡¯t stay outside toote.¡±
With a hum, Kristopher ended the call.
Back in the hospital room, Cathy set down the phone, and her smile disappeared instantly.
Her other agent, Jessa Chadwick, leaned in, eager for an update. ¡°How¡¯s it going? Where did Mr. Cox go?¡±
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¡°Where else? He¡¯s attending to business matters,¡± Cathy replied, elegantly reclining against the headboard. She picked up the ice cream Jessa had brought and began eating, her tone casual. ¡°Did the people you arranged manage to find that college student yet?¡±
Jessa shook her head. ¡°They¡¯ve located his dormitory, but he wasn¡¯t there. His roommate mentioned he¡¯d gone to fetch water and hasn¡¯te back yet.¡±
Ruthlessness flickered in Cathy¡¯s eyes. ¡°He couldn¡¯t have run off, could he?¡±
¡°Absolutely not,¡± Jessa reassured quickly, shaking her head. ¡°We¡¯ve stationed over a dozen people outside his dormitory. Everyone¡¯s vignt. He certainly didn¡¯t slip away. He must still be in the building. The ce is quiterge, so we need to conduct a thorough search¡¡±
¡°We need to find him by dawn,¡± Cathy dered, her voice firm.
¡°It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve seen you this upset,¡± Jessa observed. She then continued, ¡°Thest time I saw you this furious was four years ago when you mentioned your sister¡¡± Jessa¡¯s voice faltered as Cathy¡¯s re silenced her.
Taking a deep breath, Cathy closed her eyes topose herself. When she reopened them, they sparkled with indignation. With a swift motion, she hurled the tub of ice cream to the floor. ¡°I warned you four years ago never to bring her up again. Haven¡¯t you learned? Bring her up one more time, and you¡¯re out of here. Pack your bags and leave!¡±
Ice cream sttered all over Jessa, her face draining of color. ¡°Cathy, I apologize¡ I truly am sorry. It was my mistake.¡±
Cathy¡¯s anger subsided after a moment. She pulled an old mobile phone from her bag and handed it to Jessa. ¡°The charger¡¯s broken. Get me apatible one.¡±
Taking the phone, Jessa looked puzzled. ¡°Cathy, this model is outdated. Why cling to it?¡± Original content can be found at f?ndnovel
¡°This was her phone,¡± Cathy replied coldly. ¡°It holds information I need.¡±
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Jessa paused, absorbing the weight of the task, then nodded in understanding. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll find one at the mobile phone market first thing tomorrow.¡±
Cathy nodded, signaling the end of their conversation. As the door closed behind Jessa, Cathy leaned back against the headboard, closed her eyes, and the haunting image of Joyce standing on the rooftop four years ago filled her mind. The fierce wind on the rooftop tousled Joyce¡¯s hair and fluttered her long dress.
With anger burning in her eyes, she pointed directly at Cathy. ¡°Even though we share the title of sisters, I¡¯ve never truly called you one! Cathy, how dare you take someone else¡¯s ce? It was Belinda who cared for Kristopher, and they promised to stay together in the future. Kristopher was blind, so it¡¯s understandable that he might have initially mistaken someone else for Belinda. But you knew he wasn¡¯t looking for you! I won¡¯t stand by while you usurp my friend¡¯s efforts, steal the life she was meant to have, and coerce Kristopher into a marriage based on your lies!¡±
These memories were vividly etched in Cathy¡¯s mind. A cold smirk formed on her lips. She had regretted what happened next on that rooftop ever since. The regret wasn¡¯t for her actions alone but also for the choice of ce. Why had she chosen a building only seven stories high? If it had been taller, might Joyce have died, as Cathy had initially desired?
Now, Joyce was left in a vegetative state¡ Yet, those in vegetative states might awaken. As long as Joyce lived, Cathy¡¯s peace was disturbed.
With these thoughts, Cathy did something unexpected. She picked up her phone, scrolled through her contacts to find ¡°Ms. Scott,¡± and made the call. ¡°Mom, are you still with Joyce? Have you seen the news online? I¡¯m caught up in a scandal, and thepany has given me a few days off. I n to use this time to be with you and visit my sister. I miss her.¡±
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Chapter 273
?Chapter 273:
In the stairwell, Kristopher remained motionless after the call ended, still pressing Belinda against the wall.
Before their divorce, such closeness had rarely urred. Their intimate moments had been confined to the bedroom, serving only his physical desires. These encounters had been instinctual, mere releases, and had nothing to do with emotions.
Thus, during their three-year marriage¡ªone that existed only in name¡ªmoments of closeness outside the bedroom had been almost non-existent. This chest-to-chest contact was especially unusual.
Surprisingly, what Kristopher had most avoided before their separation was what he found himself doing twice that evening.
After a brief silence, Belinda¡¯s impatience broke through. ¡°Can you let go now?¡±
Kristopher snapped back to reality and released her.
Finally free, Belinda turned away, hurrying down the stairs without a backward nce.
¡°Belinda.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened as he watched her leave. ¡°Do you really intend to meet up with that college student?¡±
Belinda stopped, turning with irritation shing across her face. ¡°Haven¡¯t we already gone over this?¡±
She couldn¡¯t fathom why Kristopher, typically so reticent, was now relentlessly badgering her. The rightful source is Find[?]ovel
¡°I mean¡¡± he paused, choosing his words carefully. ¡°You mentioned a group of men in ck waiting for Fred at his dorm.¡±
He regarded her intently before continuing, ¡°Are you nning to just show up, expecting Fred to shield you?¡±
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Taking a deep breath, Belinda responded calmly, ¡°I never intended to go alone. I¡¯m calling the police for an escort.¡±
Kristopherughed, a short, sharp sound.
¡°Imagine this: at eleven at night, a recently divorced woman, nked by police officers, storms a male dormitory to rescue Fred, the athlete. The story will surely be aughingstock at Nawrin University.¡± Belinda caught her breath.
Knowing the university students as she did¡ªyouthful, energetic, prone tote nights, lively events, and rampant gossip¡ªshe realized that if she indeed went to the dorm with the police tonight, by tomorrow, Fred would be the main subject of whispers and rumors across the campus.
Fred, from a humble mountain vige, took great pride in his reputation. He would surely loathe bing the center of campus gossip¡
Kristopher watched as Belinda¡¯splexion paled, his emotions tangled andplex.
Ideally, he should have felt a sense of satisfaction, having persuaded Belinda to pause her impulsive actions. However, seeing her now burdened with hesitation and concern for the college student, he found no room for happiness.
Kristopher was well aware that Belinda harbored feelings only for him and treated everyone else merely as friends. Yet, his heart was heavy with difort.
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Chapter 274
?Chapter 274:
¡°Kristopher.¡±
After a long and heavy silence, Belinda spoke first, her voice rough with emotion. ¡°Can you help me?¡±
She reasoned that since he had criticized her n to involve the police, he might have a better strategy. Considering theteness of the hour, seeking help from anyone else would likely be futile or too dyed. The man standing before her might indeed be her best recourse.
Kristopher raised his eyebrows, a challenge in his gaze. ¡°Asking for help requires a certain humility.¡±
Belinda¡¯s lips tightened. She straightened her posture, meeting his eyes firmly. ¡°And how would you propose I ask?¡±
In the dim glow of the stairwell, light danced yfully in Belinda¡¯s dark eyes. Moonlight streamed through the skylight above, casting her slender face into sharp relief, entuating her delicate features. Kristopher watched her, feeling an unfamiliar emotion stir deep within him.
Noticing his prolonged silence, Belinda exhaled with urgency, her rosy lips parting slightly. ¡°Kristopher, tell me, how should I plead with you? I will agree, as long as it¡¯s within reason.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s attention returned to the present, his gaze captured by her moist, red lips. He remembered their softness, the sweetness of past kisses. Looking at her lips, his throat tightened slightly. ¡°What do you think?¡± he asked, his voice rough with emotion.
This husky tone was all too familiar to Belinda. She paused, taken aback, herplexion turning pale. But with thoughts of Fred and the urgency of their situation pressing on her mind, she took a deep breath, steadied her thoughts, and suppressed the turmoil within her. ¡°Okay, I understand.¡±
Lifting her head, she met his gaze directly, her eyes clear and determined. ¡°It¡¯s eleven o¡¯clock now. If we can manage to rescue Fred tonight, I will fulfill your request. If not, you can approach me anytimeter. I will not go back on my word.¡±
Though they were referring to something intimate, her tone and demeanor were as serious and businesslike as if they were discussing a formal partnership.
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Kristopher studied her changed expression, his brow furrowing. Previously, whenever he broached the topic of intimacy, she would blush and avert her eyes. Now, her approach was strictly business,pletely devoid of the shyness she had shown before.
Reflecting on this change, a wave of irritation inexplicably surged through him. He tugged at his tie irritably and began to walk past her, heading down the stairs. ¡°Boring,¡± he muttered.
In reality, he had no intention of cing any real demands on her. His insistence on her showing a willingness to ask for help stemmed from his feeling that she was not giving him the attention or passion he craved.
As he observed her earnest pleading, Kristopher felt a confusing mix of emotions stir within him.
However, Belinda¡¯s response quickly extinguished his interest.
Listening to Kristopher¡¯s footsteps receding, Belinda allowed a sarcastic smile to curl her lips. ¡°Boring, huh?¡±
She had lowered her dignity to agree to such an excessive request, and yet, he found it boring.
Leaving the hospital, Belinda slid into the driver¡¯s seat of Kristopher¡¯s car, and they set off toward Nawrin University. Belinda took the wheel again.
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Chapter 275
?Chapter 275:
Kristopher, seated beside her, elegantly manipted his phone, his long fingers swiftly dialing numbers. He called his assistant Marc, the president of Nawrin University, and finally, the university¡¯s security department.
In the brief drive from the hospital to Nawrin University, Kristopher, with just a few calls and a nce at his mobile, orchestrated a simple but effective n. He managed to have the security office clear the vans parked beneath Fred¡¯s dormitory.
¡°Is this your solution?¡± Belinda asked as they paused at a red light, turning to look at Kristopher. ¡°You said not to rm the police, and I assumed you had a more borate n. So, it was merely about involving the university¡¯s security?¡±
Kristopher, still fiddling with his phone, responded nonchntly, ¡°Though simple, it¡¯s effective.¡±
Belinda snorted dismissively. ¡°I could have done that too.¡±
¡°Are you sure?¡± Kristopher raised an eyebrow, challenging her. ¡°Do you also have connections with the president of Nawrin University, able topel him to mobilize the security department for you at this hour?¡±
Belinda¡¯s anger dissipatedpletely with Kristopher¡¯s words. She realized, with painful rity, how little influence she had. If she had possessed the power she wished for, her initial response to Fred¡¯s distress wouldn¡¯t have been to involve the police.
¡°Those cars had been parked under the dormitory building for so long, and it¡¯s no surprise the students noticed, prompting security to chase them away,¡± Kristopher remarked, noticing her silence. He shifted in his seat to find a morefortable position, his attention drifting to the passing traffic. ¡°No one will connect this incident to Fred, and he¡¯ll avoid any repercussions. This oue is far better than if you had intervened yourself.¡± He nced at her briefly after hisment. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Your sacrifice won¡¯t go in vain.¡±
When Kristopher had first presented his conditions, Belinda had remained calm, her mind fully focused on Fred¡¯s safety. Now, however, in the dim, uncertain light of the car, his deep voice, offering reassurance, made her ears warm with a blush. The darkness inside the vehicle kept her reaction hidden from his view.
Soon enough, they arrived at the male dormitory of Nawrin University. Throughout the drive, Belinda¡¯s phone had been buzzing incessantly, but she had ignored it, focusing on the road as it waste at night. Once they parked, she quickly checked her phone.
It was a message from Fred. ¡°Belinda, are you the one helping? I saw from the stairwell that those vans have left. Thank you!¡±
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¡°But Danilo just texted me. He said the men in ck who were looking for me are still inside the dorm. They didn¡¯t leave with the vans.¡±
¡°Some are stationed at my dorm room door, others at the entrance, and the rest arebing through each floor¡¡±
¡°When can you arrive? I certainly can¡¯t go back to my dorm tonight. I have nowhere else to go, and it¡¯s so cold¡¡±
Thest message came with a request to share his location.
Belinda inhaled deeply, epted the location share, and quickly replied, ¡°I¡¯m already here. I¡¯ll find you soon!¡±
Fred¡¯s response came back, jittery with relief. ¡°Belinda! I knew you wouldn¡¯t abandon me! I¡¯m hiding in the corridor between the fifth and sixth floors!¡±
Belinda could almost picture Fred¡¯s relieved expression as she read his message. She shook her head softly and sighed. ¡°Wait for us.¡±
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Chapter 276
?Chapter 276:
After sending the message, she ced her phone down and instinctively nced toward Kristopher. When their eyes met, Belinda noticed that Kristopher was staring at her intently. His gaze held a chill and a hint of anger that she couldn¡¯t quite understand.
She felt puzzled, unsure of what she had done to upset him again. However, she knew this wasn¡¯t the right time to address it.
She opened the car door. ¡°I know where Fred is. Let¡¯s go find him.¡± As she stepped out, Kristopher¡¯s eyes narrowed. He followed her, his tone frosty. ¡°You messaged Fred the moment we parked. You seem very concerned about him.¡±
Belinda turned back to him, her expression filled with confusion. ¡°Fred could be discovered at any moment. I¡¯m here to save him; of course, I¡¯m concerned.¡±
Could his icy demeanor simply be because of her worry about Fred? This thought paused her, and she faced him with sudden uncertainty. ¡°Kristopher, are you¡ jealous?¡±
After Belinda spoke her mind, Kristopher¡¯s posture tensed for a brief moment. He shot her a disparaging look and said, ¡°You¡¯re awfully sure of yourself, aren¡¯t you?¡±
Without waiting for a reply, he brushed past her and headed briskly toward the dormitory building.
Belinda rolled her eyes at his departing figure and followed him at a distance.
They reached the gate of the boys¡¯ dormitory shortly after. It waste; under normal circumstances, the doors would have been securely locked. However, the gate stood conspicuously open, likely because the men in ck had coerced the elderly dormitory administrator into leaving it so. Instead of the usual administrator, two stern men in ck guarded the entrance.
Belinda¡¯s expression shifted subtly to one of concern. Clearly, these men were not here to offer help; they were stationed to prevent Fred from making a covert escape.
¡°Stay out of sight,¡± Kristopher whispered abruptly, pausing to nce back at Belinda. Get full chapters from ?ovelFind
She nodded, whispering in return, ¡°What¡¯s your n?¡±
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After a brief exchange of whispers detailing his approach, Kristopher strode confidently towards the dormitory gate. Belinda, doing as instructed, concealed herself behind arge vase near the entrance.
¡°What are you doing here?¡± one of the men in ck demanded as Kristopher neared.
With a serious frown, Kristopher answered authoritatively, ¡°I¡¯ve never seen you before. When did you start working here? How long have you been on duty?¡±
His questioning momentarily disoriented the two men.
¡°You are¡¡±
¡°I¡¯m the dean of this school,¡± Kristopher stated firmly, his voice carrying a blend of disdain and authority. ¡°There have been reports of students sneaking out at night. It¡¯s my duty to asionally inspect the dormitory during these hours to monitor theings and goings.¡± He scrutinized them with a chilling gaze. ¡°You weren¡¯t here yesterday. Identify yourselves. If your answers don¡¯t satisfy me, I will not hesitate to involve the police.¡±
The two men nced at each other, their unease palpable. Hired merely to track down an individual, they were unprepared for a confrontation that might escte to legalplications. Thinking quickly, one of the men in ck replied with a friendly smile, ¡°We¡¯re the nephews of the dorm administrator. He¡¯s under the weather today, so we¡¯re filling in to help keep an eye on things.¡± They then stepped aside, allowing Kristopher to pass.
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Chapter 277
?Chapter 277:
Once inside, Kristopher signaled to the men. ¡°I need to rify something with you both,¡± he called out.
Caught off guard, the two men hurried over to him. As they listened intently, their backs to the entrance, Belinda seized the moment. She took a deep breath, tiptoed, and stealthily slipped into the dormitory. Kristopher continued to grill the men about the details of the vans being driven away by the security guards just now, all the while keeping an eye on Belinda from the corner of his vision. Only when he was certain that Belinda had safely entered did he allow himself a brief sigh of relief. He then dismissed the two men and calmly followed in Belinda¡¯s direction.
Using the navigation on her phone, Belinda located Fred hiding in a storage room between the fifth and sixth floors. Content originallyes from f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?
¡°Belinda!¡± Fred eximed upon seeing her. His excitement was palpable as he reached out and embraced her. ¡°It¡¯s sote. I can¡¯t believe you really came!¡±
The sudden embrace caught Belinda off guard, and she stiffened. It took her a moment to react, and even then, her arms hovered awkwardly in the air, unsure where to rest them. Sensing Fred¡¯s fear, she attempted to reassure him, albeit awkwardly. ¡°It¡¯s alright, Fred. Don¡¯t be scared.¡±
Fred, the tall, muscr man with tanned skin, was visibly moved, nearly to tears. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d actuallye when I asked for help¡ No woman has ever shown me such kindness, Belinda¡¡±
¡°What are you doing?¡± The interruption was sharp, a low voice cutting through the emotion of the moment.
The atmosphere in the storage room shifted abruptly to silence. Fred looked up in shock, his eyes wide as he recognized the neer. ¡°Why are you here?¡± He gasped, staring in disbelief.
¡°Why would I be here?¡± Kristopher scoffed dismissively. He extended his arm to separate the two who were embracing and quickly moved Belinda behind him for protection. ¡°Without me, do you really think Belinda could safely enter a men¡¯s dormitory alone at this hour?¡±
Fred¡¯s expression soured. ¡°Belinda, how could you¡¡±
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It was clear that Fred had figured out she hadn¡¯te alone. A sensible woman like her would certainly seek help at such ate hour. He had assumed that backup would be someone like Madisyn or Darren, who she often mentioned.
But what he hadn¡¯t anticipated was that Belinda had brought Kristopher along at such ate hour.
Sensing Fred¡¯s surprise, Belinda whispered, ¡°I¡¯ll exin everythingter. Right now, we need to get you out of here.¡±
Before she could finish her sentence, the voices of several men in ck echoed from the corridor.
¡°Stay quiet,¡± Kristopher whispered urgently.
He swiftly ushered both Belinda and Fred into a storage room and secured the door behind them. Momentster, footsteps and voices from the men in ck could be heard outside.
¡°Why haven¡¯t we found him after such a long search? Could Fred have escaped?¡±
¡°That¡¯s unlikely.¡±
Another voice responded, ¡°All the exits are covered by our men. Even if he jumped from a window, we¡¯d find him. He¡¯s got to still be inside the dormitory.¡±
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Chapter 278
?Chapter 278:
¡°What was he wearing? Do you remember? Let¡¯s not end up right in front of him without recognizing him.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve got it. His roommate told us. He¡¯s in blue pajamas, a white denim jacket, and white slippers. He should be easy to spot.¡±
¡°But we¡¯ve been searching all night and haven¡¯t found anyone who matches the description or anyone dressed like that¡¡±
As they spoke, the voices paused right outside the storage room, followed by someone trying the door handle.
¡°Do you think he could be hiding in here?¡±
¡°Probably not. It looks like this ce hasn¡¯t been used in ages.¡±
¡°But what if? The key to this room should be in the duty room on the first floor, right? Go grab it. I¡¯ll wait here.¡±
The other person hesitated briefly before nodding. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll head there now.¡±
With that, the footsteps slowly faded away. Belinda¡¯s pulse quickened.
She could hear the faint, heavy breathing of the man still outside the storage room door.
Instinctively, she clutched Kristopher¡¯s arm, whispering into his ear, ¡°What should we do now?¡±
If the man returned with the key to open the door¡
Then the three of them would be caught.
Kristopher nced at Fred, noticing his anxious expression and his outfit of blue pajamas and a jacket. After a brief pause, he sighed, walked up to Fred, and removed his suit jacket, handing it to Belinda. He then started to unbutton his shirt, saying, ¡°Change clothes.¡±
Fred was momentarily taken aback, suddenly grasping Kristopher¡¯s n.
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His initial reaction was to resist, not wanting Kristopher¡¯s assistance.
¡°I¡¯m not changing. I¡¯d rather just be caught¡¡± N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on find~novel
Kristopher¡¯s expression grew cold. ¡°We¡¯re here to rescue you and keep you from getting into trouble. We didn¡¯t even call the police¡ªwe came in ourselves to find you. And now you want to give up?¡±
Kristopher shot him an icy look, his voice low and firm. Hismanding presence left Fred no room to argue.
As Kristopher removed his tie, he fixed Fred with a stern gaze. ¡°Once Belinda and I distract those two men in ck, check that the coast is clear. Then disguise yourself as a dean and walk out. No one will notice.¡±
Fred bit his lip, his worry evident. ¡°But what if you¡¯re caught¡¡±
¡°Me, get caught?¡± Kristopherughed silently, his toneced with confidence. ¡°Then they would be the unlucky ones.¡±
Fred looked up, his gaze drawn to Kristopher¡¯s stern, imposing expression.
If anyone else had spoken those proud words, Fred would have dismissed them as mere boldness. But when they came from Kristopher, they didn¡¯t seem overblown; instead, Fred found himself utterly persuaded.
¡°Fred.¡±
Noticing his dazed stare at Kristopher, Belinda¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as she raised her voice to snap him out of it, reminding him to hurry and change.
Fred quickly returned to the moment.
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Chapter 279
?Chapter 279:
Kristopher, standing before him, had already removed his shirt and was struggling with his belt. The dim lighting in the storage room seemed to be making it harder for him. He looked towards Belinda and said, ¡°Help me.¡±
Without hesitation, Belinda moved closer, cing his jacket and shirt on a nearby table, and bent down to assist with his belt. She handled the task with practiced ease.
Meanwhile, Fred, now undressing, watched as her back turned to him, a knot forming in his stomach. Just moments before, when Fred had been about to remove his shirt, he noticed Belinda¡¯s eyes quickly shift away. She couldn¡¯t bear to watch him undress, yet she helped Kristopher with something as personal as his belt without a second thought.
Did this mean Kristopher still held a special ce in her heart, even after their divorce?
¡°All done.¡±
Belinda quickly unfastened the belt, then moved to stand behind Kristopher, turning her back to both men, silently listening for any sounds from outside.
Kristopher smoothly finished dressing in Fred¡¯s clothes.
As the two menpleted their disguises, the man in ck who had gone to get the keys returned.
¡°You guessed right. He could really be hiding here!¡±
The man in ck returned, panting. ¡°We couldn¡¯t find him downstairs, and the old administrator at the dormitory mentioned that several student union members have keys to this storage room. That must include Fred!¡±
Realizing this, the man guarding the door pped his thigh in frustration and said, ¡°No wonder we haven¡¯t found him all this time!¡± He grabbed the keys and began unlocking the door.
Inside, Kristopher, now dressed in Fred¡¯s blue pajamas, grasped Belinda¡¯s hand and whispered, ¡°As soon as we go out, we¡¯ll run.¡±
Tense, Belinda instinctively tightened her grip on his hand and said, ¡°I understand.¡±
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Their n depended on luring all the men in ck away to ensure Fred¡¯s safe escape. Moreover, even if she and Kristopher were caught, it wouldn¡¯t pose a major problem since they weren¡¯t the primary targets of the men in ck, who would likely be lenient with them.
As the click of the unlocking door sounded, the door swung open. The bright corridor light momentarily blinded Belinda, making it difficult for her to see. Before she could adjust, Kristopher was already pulling her into the hallway, sprinting forward.
¡°Blue pajamas, denim jacket, white slippers ¡ª he¡¯s really hiding here!¡± One of the men in ck spotted Kristopher¡¯s clothes and shouted out. The men in ck chased after them, coordinating with others to try to encircle them.
Kristopher held Belinda¡¯s hand tightly.
They dashed down the stairwell of the male dormitory, descending floor by floor, breaking past the men in ck at the exit, and continuing their run across the university campus.
The men in ck werepletely distracted, following and shouting as they ran.
As Kristopher led the way, Belinda stole a quick nce over her shoulder at their pursuers.
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Chapter 280
?Chapter 280:
She once thought that learning to dance, drink, and race with Joyce was the wildest thing she¡¯d done. But now, she was experiencing real craziness. Kristopher, the CEO of a multinational corporation, was sprinting wildly across the campus with her at night, dressed in a student¡¯s pajamas. It felt like something out of a movie. Even if she shared this story, who would actually believe her?
Suddenly, she understood why Kristopher had used his connections earlier to have the security office clear out the men in ck cars. The night air rushed past her ears, and Belinda felt a surge of adrenaline reminiscent of her most spirited days five years ago. However, she remembered toote that she was still recovering.
Already drained, her endurance just couldn¡¯t sustain the prolonged run. Her steps started to falter, drained of strength, while a burning sensation red in her chest, adding to the pain in her already ailing stomach.
¡°Kristopher,¡± she gasped, clutching her chest. ¡°I can¡¯t run anymore.¡±
¡°But we haven¡¯t run that long¡¡± Kristopher¡¯s words trailed off as he caught sight of Belinda¡¯s face. Something was wrong. She was as white as a ghost!
She couldn¡¯t have gone so pale just from physical exertion.
Kristopher suddenly remembered thest time he had visited Ady Tucker, the person who used to take care of him. Herplexion had been no different from Belinda¡¯s now. The difference, though, was that Ady had been in thete stages of cancer.
Kristopher¡¯s chest tightened at the thought. He firmly grasped Belinda¡¯s wrist and forced her to look at him. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± he demanded. ¡°Are you ill?¡±
¡°No¡ I can¡¯t run anymore,¡± Belinda gasped, rubbing her free hand across her chest. She struggled to breathe properly. ¡°Go on without me. I don¡¯t think they¡¯d do much to a woman, anyway, so¡ª¡±
¡°Ah!¡± She was cut off as Kristopher suddenly scooped her up into his arms.
Belinda couldn¡¯t help but yelp as her feet left the ground, and her arms instinctively wrapped around his neck.
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Kristopher scowled. She was light as a feather. Holding her close, he hurtled forward, careful not to jostle her too much.
¡°Belinda.¡±
The sound of her name on his lips calmed her somehow.
Belinda took as deep a breath as she could and nced up at him. Her eyes met his smooth, chiseled jawline. The nightmps around the campus lent a golden hue to his sculpted features, and she suddenly found it difficult to look away.
¡°Tell me the truth. Are you sick?¡± Kristopher sounded worried, almost panicked, even. ¡°Why are you so pale?¡±
Even if she was suffering from some grave ailment, surely she shouldn¡¯t be as ashen as someone who was dying, right?
Taken aback by his question, Belinda shrank back in his arms. ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m not sick. I¡¯m just¡ tired.¡± But Kristopher didn¡¯t buy her lie.
He rushed to his car, yanked the passenger door open, and carefully deposited Belinda into the seat before hurrying around the vehicle to the driver¡¯s side.
Kristopher slid behind the wheel, fastened his seatbelt, and started the engine in one fluid motion. He was still scowling as he put the car into gear. ¡°I¡¯m taking you to the hospital.¡±
Belinda froze in the act of buckling her seatbelt. She told herself to calm down and exhaled slowly as she clicked the sp into ce. ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary at all.¡±
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Chapter 281
?Chapter 281:
She had only managed to hide her medical condition thanks to Marlene¡¯s help, who worked at Peace Hospital. Belinda was almost sure that Kristopher wouldn¡¯t take her there at such ate hour. And even if he did, Marlene would have probably clocked out hours ago.
She didn¡¯t want anyone ¡ª least of all Kristopher ¡ª to know about her illness. She didn¡¯t want his sympathy, real or contrived, nor did she want it from anyone.
¡°How could you possibly be fine?¡± Kristopher said, his voice rising in a mix of anger and worry. He nced at her and added, ¡°Just look at yourself in the mirror. You don¡¯t have any color left in your face! Aren¡¯t you always taking care of other people? Why can¡¯t you take care of yourself for once? How can you let things get this bad?!¡±
Belinda pursed her lips and checked herself in the side mirror. Herplexion¡ was indeed frightfully pale.
She opened her mouth to protest further when she noticed a ck SUV suddenly appear farther behind them. Their pursuers piled into the vehicle, and the SUV started tailing them.
¡°I believe they just made this into a car chase,¡± Belinda pointed out.
Meanwhile, in the ck SUV behind them, the man leading the team sent the photos he had taken of Belinda and Kristopher from behind to Jessa, along with a message. ¡°A woman suddenly appeared out of nowhere. How should we deal with her?¡±
Jessa frowned at her phone, then showed the photos to the woman beside her. ¡°Take a look at these, Cathy. That silhouette. Doesn¡¯t it look like¡¡±
¡°Belinda.¡± Cathy murmured the name and scrutinized the photo. Only her back was shown, and the lighting was a little dim, but the height, the figure, and even the hair¡ Who else could it be if not Belinda?
¡°It seems she is really close to this college student.¡±
To sneak into a boys¡¯ dormitory in the dead of the night just to rescue him¡ Not only that, but the way they were fleeing in the pictures made them look like a pair of star-crossed lovers.
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Cathy¡¯s lips curled into a sneer. Kristopher was so fixated on Belinda that he kept calling her name on the night of their divorce, long after he had hammered at the club. How would he react if he found out that Belinda was seeking out another man thiste at night?
¡°Cathy,¡± Jessa called out in a voice that was barely above a whisper. ¡°My men are asking if we should call it off. For one thing, their target jumped into a car, which made the pursuit all the more difficult, especially once they left the campus. Moreover, there¡¯s now another person involved. We paid them only to capture one person,¡± Jessa reminded her.
Cathy thought about it for a moment. Her smile was devious when she said, ¡°I¡¯ll pay more. Tell them to hit the target¡¯s car. If the crash doesn¡¯t kill those two, it should at least cripple them to some degree.¡±
Hearing Cathy¡¯s words, Jessa stood rooted to the spot. ¡°Cathy, but¡¡± Hadn¡¯t their initial n been to confront the person spreading vicious rumors about Cathy online and teach them a lesson? Why were they now scheming about orchestrating a car ident?
Cathy¡¯s gaze hardened as she stared at the image of two figures on her phone. ¡°Isn¡¯t this the perfect chance?¡± she questioned sharply. ¡°Kristopher still harbors feelings for Belinda, even post-divorce. He¡¯s going out of his way to throw a birthday party for her. If it hadn¡¯t been for Belinda, I wouldn¡¯t have been so humiliated at the Summit Hotel¡¡±
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Chapter 282
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Her voice trailed off as she peered at her phone, her eyes shimmering with malice. ¡°Imagine if Belinda and that college student were to have a car ident tonight. Even if they survive, the news will spread. Everyone will hear about Belinda¡¯s secret rendezvous with a young man in the dead of night. Rumors will swirl that Belinda is already on the lookout for a new romance, just days after her split from Kristopher. At that point, even if Kristopher retains any affection for her, he¡¯ll have to distance himself to protect his own reputation.¡± She paused, lifting her head with a look of cold deliberation. ¡°Moreover, if Belinda is left disabled by the ident, she¡¯ll be a figure of pity, shunned by all.¡±
Jessa was speechless, her mind reeling from the darkness of Cathy¡¯s n. She gazed at Cathy¡¯s beautiful, serene face, a realization dawning on her that perhaps she had never truly known Cathy at all.
¡°Cathy¡¡± Her voice trailed off,den with a mix of confusion and revtion. When had Cathy be so ruthless?
¡°What are you just standing there for?¡± Cathy¡¯s gaze sliced through the air, icy and sharp as she noticed Jessa¡¯s troubled expression. ¡°Make the call now. If we dy any longer, they¡¯ll be gone!¡±
Jessa¡¯s lips tightened into a thin line as she reluctantly grabbed the phone. ¡°Alright, alright¡¡± she muttered.
Taking out the phone, Jessa dashed into the corridor and urgently dialed the leader of the men in ck. ¡°Ram into their car?¡±
Inside the ck SUV, the man in ck scowled, his eyes fixed on the sleek Maserati ahead. ¡°Are you sure? We can¡¯t cover the cost of damaging that car!¡±
Jessa rolled her eyes dismissively. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯re handling the expenses here, okay?¡±
Belinda, who had recently gone through a tough divorce and was left with nothing, had little in the way of transportation options, and Fred, just a college student from a small vige, didn¡¯t have much money either. What kind of luxury car could they possibly afford?
Hearing this, the man dressed in ck took a long, deliberate drag from his cigarette and replied curtly, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll ram them.¡±
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With a flick of his wrist, he tossed his phone aside and mmed his foot down on the gas pedal.
¡°Kristopher.¡±
Ahead in the sleek ck Maserati, Belinda sat beside the driver, her eyes fixed on the pursuing vehicle in the rearview mirror. ¡°Looks like they¡¯re about to ram us,¡± she noted calmly.
Though she hadn¡¯t been behind the wheel long, Belinda¡¯s past as nearly a professional racer gave her a keen understanding of the eleration patterns of the car chasing them. ¡°They¡¯re speeding up. If we don¡¯t pick up our pace in the next five seconds, it¡¯ll be toote.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened as he pressed the elerator further, muttering under his breath, ¡°Madman. Who on earth did Fred cross this time?¡±
The idea of someone chasing them down to crash into their car seemed utterly reckless. Was it merely because Fred had posted some evidence against Cathy and revealed her information online like Belinda said? Absolutely impossible.
Belinda¡¯s gaze remained fixed on the mirror, her voice low and cautious. ¡°He¡¯s a simple guy from a small vige in the countryside, studying at Nawrin University. Apart from his part-time jobs, the only wealthy people he¡¯s managed to offend are you and Cathy.¡± Fresh chapters posted on find?novel
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Kristopher gave a scornful snort. ¡°Are you sure he¡¯s only crossed me and Cathy? Maybe he¡¯s offended others too. Maybe he¡¯s been involved with other women, and you just don¡¯t know about it.¡± Discover more novels at find{n}ovel
Belinda¡¯s brow furrowed in annoyance. Given the urgency of their situation, she refrained from arguing. With a sharp nce, she replied, ¡°Fred would never do such a thing.¡±
She turned her attention back to the road, noticing that the number of cars tailing them had increased from one to three. One of these vehicles had a heavily modified front end, designed to withstand damage in a collision.
The modifications weren¡¯t just aggressive¡ªthey were outright illegal, a clear sign that they were dealing with true criminals.
Belinda¡¯s heart tightened with anxiety. Was Cathy really trying to lead Fred to his ruin? After all, his only mistake was exposing Cathy¡¯s covert operations online¡ªthe hiring of an inte troll army to tarnish Belinda¡¯s image.
As Kristopher navigated the streets swiftly, he handed his phone to Belinda. ¡°Call Marc for backup.¡±
The situation had spiraled beyond their control, and they couldn¡¯t handle it alone. Who would have thought that their mission to extract a college student from his dorm would turn into a high-speed chase through city traffic?
These men in ck weren¡¯t merely trying to capture anyone¡ªthey were out for blood.
With the assants in swift pursuit, pausing now would jeopardize both Kristopher¡¯s life and Belinda¡¯s. Under such dire circumstances, they had no choice but to keep speeding ahead.
Belinda snatched Kristopher¡¯s phone and hastily dialed Marc¡¯s number. However, before the call could go through, Kristopher¡¯s voice cut through from behind the wheel. ¡°It¡¯s toote!¡±
At his words, Belinda froze momentarily, instinctively looking up.
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To their dismay, they found themselves on a road that ended abruptly. With their vehicle hurtling forward at lightning speed, a crash seemed inevitable, and the thought of the aftermath was unbearable.
Belinda turned to look at Kristopher, who met her gaze in return. In that brief exchange, a silent understanding passed between them. They knew what they had to do.
Kristopher cranked the steering wheel to its limit, causing the car to veer sharply to the left, speeding toward the rocks and the beach beside the road.
The three trailing cars, their drivers¡¯ view blocked by Kristopher¡¯s car, failed to spot the stone barriers in time. Caught off guard by the sudden maneuver, two of the cars crashed into the barriers.
The driver of the third car, evidently more skilled, quickly understood Kristopher and Belinda¡¯s tactic. He swerved, chasing after them, and eventually mmed into the back of their turning vehicle.
¡°Bang!¡±
Two ck SUVs collided with the stone barriers, erupting into mes almost immediately. ¡°Bang!¡±
The third SUV struck the rear of their car, sending it spinning halfway around before it plunged toward the rocks and the sea.
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The events unfolded too quickly.
Before Belinda could process what was happening, Kristopher, who was at the wheel, had already released it, stretched his arms forward, and pressed her head down, enfolding herpletely in his embrace.
The sounds of his heartbeat and the crash echoed in her ears. Overwhelmed by a terrifying sense of weightlessness, Belinda instinctively clung to Kristopher¡¯s body.
Nestled in his warm hold, her racing heart began to settle slightly. With her eyes shut and her voice shaking, she whispered, ¡°Kristopher, are we going to die?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s eyes immediately snapped to attention, noticing the tremor in Belinda¡¯s voice. In an instant, he seized her hand firmly, his voice calm but resolute. ¡°We won¡¯t!¡±
As he spoke, Belinda watched in shock as he unbuckled his seatbelt. Her eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°You¡¡±
Before she could say another word, Kristopher leaned in, shielding her with his body. He wrapped his arms securely around her shoulders and head. As the car plummeted downwards at breakneck speed, Kristopher¡¯s grip remained unyielding, unaffected by the weightless sensation and the brutal impact.
Enveloped in his embrace, Belinda could distinctly hear his heartbeat and strained breaths. The car¡¯s violent jerks tossed them up and down, rolling repeatedly. Her body was overwhelmed with the turmoil, and the pain consumed herpletely. She clutched Kristopher¡¯s clothes, her face turning deathly pale.
¡°Bang!¡± A loud crash echoed as the car plummeted off the cliff,nding on the soft sand below. Simultaneously, distant explosions and crashes filled the air. Tightly held in Kristopher¡¯s arms, Belinda heard the far-off screams of men, her emotions a tangled mess. Then, a warm liquid began trickling down from the top of her head, blurring her vision with a sh of crimson.
In panic, Belinda lifted her head, her voice shaking. ¡°Kristopher!¡±
He was bleeding.
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¡°Belinda, are you okay?¡± Kristopher¡¯s voice was faint, but full of concern.
Despite his injuries, Kristopher held Belinda protectively, his voice strained. At that moment, her concern was solely for him. She struggled to free herself from his embrace. ¡°You¡¯re hurt!¡± she cried. Read full story at find?novel
He managed a pained smile. ¡°I¡¯m¡ I¡¯m fine.¡±
The distant firelight cast a pale glow across his face. ¡°I told you, you wouldn¡¯t die.¡±
Tears brimmed in Belinda¡¯s eyes. Her voice trembled as she said, ¡°Let me see where you¡¯re hurt!¡±
Kristopher only shook his head and insisted, ¡°I¡¯m fine¡¡±
How could he possibly be fine?
Belinda bit her lip. Just as she was about to protest again, Kristopher¡¯s arms around her ckened. Suddenly, his body went limp and copsed into her arms. He had fainted.
The car was badly damaged from the crash. It seemed Kristopher had instinctively shielded the passenger side. Thankfully, the door on Belinda¡¯s side was less damaged and could still be opened with effort. She managed to pry it open and, with great difficulty, dragged Kristopher¡¯s tall form from the vehicle.
Three years earlier, when Belinda had been charged with caring for him, she had mastered the art of lifting him despite his height advantage. Now, her body weakened by illness, she summoned every ounce of resolve to carry him from the car to the remote beach.
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Once she gentlyid him on the sand, she noticed a severe gash on his forehead¡ªa wound from debris that had struck him inside the vehicle. ¡°Wait for me here,¡± she murmured, her voice steady despite her worry. After ensuring Kristopher was asfortable as possible, she hurried back to the car in search of the first-aid kit.
While she rummaged through the wreckage, Kristopher¡¯s phone began to ring. With the screen shattered, she could not identify the caller but answered anyway. ¡°Hello?¡±
Upon hearing the raspy voice of the woman on the other end, Marc paused briefly before cautiously asking, ¡°Mrs. Cox?¡± The voice resembled Belinda¡¯s.
¡°Yes, it¡¯s me,¡± Belinda confirmed.
Realization dawned on her; she had been using Kristopher¡¯s phone to call Marc just before the crash urred. ¡°Kristopher and I were in a car ident.¡±
There was a pause. Then, Marc¡¯s tone shifted to one of urgency and concern. ¡°What¡¯s the situation right now? Where are you?¡±
Belinda quickly ryed their location and instinctively added, ¡°When youe, could you also alert the police? But please, make sure you reach us before they do. We need you to take us away. Given our current identities, we need to avoid any furtherplications.¡±
Marc was silent for a beat before he responded, understanding the gravity of the situation. ¡°Understood.¡±
Marc truly demonstrated why he was regarded as Kristopher¡¯s top assistant.
Just after Belinda managed to treat Kristopher¡¯s wound and stop it from bleeding, Marc arrived with a motorhome. He had arranged for the motorhome to be parked near the beach based on the details Belinda had provided earlier. Apanied by several aides carrying a stretcher, they lifted an unconscious Kristopher onto it.
At that moment, Kristopher, though unconscious, clung tightly to Belinda¡¯s hand, refusing to let go of it. Marc attempted multiple times to loosen his grip but couldn¡¯t.
Eventually, he turned to Belinda with a look of resignation and said, ¡°Mrs. Cox, what should we do about this?¡± Follow current nov?ls on find{n}ovel
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Belinda hesitated, then said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with him.¡±
Time was critical, especially with the risk of being linked to the mysterious men in ck before the police could intervene.
Relieved by her decision, Marc directed the men to move Kristopher into the motorhome. Belinda remained by his side, their fingers still entwined as she stepped onto the vehicle with him.
Marc watched their hands sped together, unable to help feeling a sense of sadness. This might have been the first disy of such closeness between Kristopher and Belinda in the three years they had been married. The intertwining of their fingers¡ It was a gesture the old Kristopher would never have considered with Belinda.
Marc had always believed Kristopher held a special ce for Belinda in his heart, though he never acknowledged it. Now, after surviving an ident together, with Belinda unscathed and Kristopher injured and unconscious, he still clung to her hand tightly¡ If they hade to this realization sooner, could they have avoided so much pain?
Reflecting on their very public divorce just days earlier, Marc couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of loss. ¡°Belinda¡¡±
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Chapter 286
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At that moment, the man on the stretcher, his eyes still shut, murmured, ¡°I don¡¯t want you to die¡¡±
His words hung heavily in the air, silencing everything around them.
Belinda closed her eyes and sighed deeply, staying silent. Such a shame. Kristopher¡¯s wish was unlikely to be fulfilled. She had just a little over two months left¡ She knew she would die in just over two months.
¡°Mr. Cox owns a vi in the city center, known only to a select few of his close assistants¡¡± Marc¡¯s words snapped Belinda out of her thoughts.
¡°Mrs. Cox, you and sir should stay there for now. I will arrange for a doctor toe and assess his condition. The car involved in the crash was registered to Mr. Cox¡¯spany, and I was the one who notified the police. I need to remain here to assist with the investigation.¡±
Belinda pursed her lips, giving a silent nod of agreement. ¡°Okay.¡± The motorhome then quickly left the scene.
As mes began to engulf the area, Belinda noticed police cars approaching the crash site from another road.
¡°Cathy¡¡± Kristopher on the stretcher murmured the name unclearly. In that moment, Belinda felt as if she were suddenly encased in ice, unable to move.
¡°Cathy¡¡± Kristopher tightened his hold on her hand, his voice tinged with confusion and gratitude. ¡°Thank you¡ For saving me on the beach.¡±
Belinda¡¯s fingers were painfully squeezed by his grip, but it was her heart that felt the deepest ache.
It became clear¡ He was calling out Cathy¡¯s name. He believed it was Cathy who had saved him on the beach. He had mistaken Belinda for Cathy.
With her lips pressed firmly together, her heart felt as though it was being squeezed by an unseen force.
Kristopher had confused her for someone else.
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When had he mistaken her for someone else? Was it after he lost consciousness on the beach, or had he mistaken her identity immediately after the ident?
He had protected her with his body, seemingly oblivious to his own injuries¡
Was it because¡ He mistook her for Cathy?
Kristopher murmured ¡°Cathy¡¡± repeatedly as they traveled from the ident scene to Riviera Vis. He continually thanked her for rescuing him at the beach, though he was actually clutching Belinda¡¯s hand the entire time.
At first, Belinda tried to pull away. However, the significant difference in strength between them,pounded by Kristopher¡¯s semi-conscious state, made it impossible for her to escape his grasp. Eventually, she stopped resisting.
By the time they reached Riviera Vis, a doctor was already waiting at the entrance. Belinda recognized him immediately. It was Kayden Riley, one of the physicians who had cared for Kristopher during his vegetative state. After Kristopher had awakened two and a half years earlier, he had dismissed the extensive medical team, keeping only two personal doctors for the Cox family. Since Renee had been taking care of Anthony at his residence, Kayden had to be the other doctor.
¡°What happened?¡± Kayden asked the moment he stepped into the motorhome, medical kit in hand.
With a frown, Belinda began to exin the details of the ident. When Kayden heard her mention that Kristopher had shielded her during the mishap, he couldn¡¯t help but raise an eyebrow. ¡°Aren¡¯t you two divorced?¡±
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Chapter 287
?Chapter 287:
¡°Yes,¡± she replied. ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? Find[?]ovel
With a bitter smile, Belinda gestured towards Kristopher¡¯s grip on her wrist. ¡°He thought I was Miss Miller.¡±
That was the moment Kayden noticed Kristopher¡¯s hand on her. His brow furrowed as he retrieved a needle from the medical kit and jabbed it into Kristopher¡¯s wrist sharply. Instantly, Kristopher¡¯s grip loosened, and his hand dropped away from her wrist.
Cradling her now-swollen wrist, Belinda murmured, ¡°Thank you.¡±
¡°You¡¯re wee,¡± Kayden responded, his expression still serious. He then instructed the servants to remove Kristopher¡¯s stretcher from the vehicle and added coldly, ¡°Do you want me to show you how to make him release you next time?¡±
Belinda understood that his intentions were good and managed a small shake of her head. ¡°No need. There shouldn¡¯t be a next time.¡± Kayden paused briefly before nodding in agreement. ¡°Right.¡±
Once the servants had carried the unconscious Kristopher to the master bedroom, Kayden shut the door behind them to begin his examination alone. Not wanting to hinder his efforts, Belinda decided to leave the room.
She followed the servants downstairs and started exploring the vi, which Marc had mentioned was notably secluded. Having been Kristopher¡¯s wife for three years, she was stunned to discover he owned another vi here.
However, the interior of the vi didn¡¯t reflect Kristopher¡¯s usual tastes at all. It was decorated in warm tones, adorned with cotton and linen, and dotted with floral arrangements, creating an ambiance that seemed less like a man¡¯s home and more like¡ a quaint sanctuary a girl might dream of.
She recalled her fondness for this style. Back when Belinda and Joyce had been caring for Kristopher, Joyce would endlessly chatter about Belinda¡¯s preference for such girlish decor, while Belinda, unable to speak due to a throat injury, could only listen¡
As these memories flooded back, Belinda halted abruptly, feeling a surge of blood rush to her head. Memories of Joyce flooded her mind. It dawned on her that the vi was decorated exactly in line with how Joyce had described Belinda¡¯s tastes!
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In that moment, Belinda was rooted to the spot. She had thought those memories from two years ago had faded from Kristopher¡¯s mind, so she had carefully avoided bringing them up. But she hadn¡¯t imagined¡
That encounter from two years ago¡ it was still vivid in his memory!?
The thought that Kristopher might still cherish their shared past filled Belinda with a surge of excitement she hadn¡¯t felt in a long time.
She wandered through the vi several times, her memory foggy yet eerily familiar with the surroundings. It seemed that every detail Joyce had once shared with Kristopher¡ªpreferences Belinda favored¡ªhad been incorporated into the vi¡¯s design. The vi seemed tailored to her past tastes.
As Belinda explored, her surprise deepened, and her emotions became a whirlpool of uncertainty. Part of her believed that Kristopher had remembered everything she cherished from those days and had crafted this sanctuary just for her. Yet, skepticism gnawed at her; perhaps it was all just a coincidence.
After all, it had been five years since she had rescued Kristopher, and during the three years she had stayed by his side, he had never once brought it up. If he truly remembered and had arranged everything for her, why had he remained silent?
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Chapter 288
?Chapter 288:
Lost in her doubts, Belinda¡¯s phone interrupted her thoughts with its ring.
It was Fred.
Snapping back to reality, she steadied her voice and answered the call. Fred¡¯s voice came through clearly. ¡°Belinda, I¡¯ve left the dorm and am hiding out at a ssmate¡¯s ce. How are things with you and Mr. Cox? Did you manage to lose those who were tailing you?¡±
Hearing the firm, resonant voice of the young man on the line, Belinda inhaled sharply. ¡°I¡¯m relieved to hear you¡¯re safe. Kristopher and I¡¡± She paused, grappling with her thoughts before deciding to reveal the truth. ¡°Those men in ck really wanted to kill you. They chased us aggressively, trying to ram our car. Then the unimaginable happened. Our vehicle was thrown off the road and ended up wrecked on the beach. Their cars, unable to decelerate, exploded¡¡±
Fred¡¯s voice interrupted anxiously from the other end. ¡°So, the car crash on the coastal road involved you? We were just watching a live broadcast of the wreckage. It was a horrific scene! The news reported that a man and a woman were found dead on the spot, their bodies already imed by the funeral home¡¯s vehicle¡¡±
There was a heavy silence before Fred ventured, ¡°The deceased¡ were they you and Mr. Cox?¡± For original chapters go to find[?]ovel
With a weary sigh, Belinda rubbed her forehead. ¡°Unless there¡¯s another car that crashed there, they were indeed talking about us.¡± She pondered the rumors about the funeral home. Perhaps they mistook Marc¡¯s white motorhome, which he had brought in the dead of night, for a funeral home¡¯s vehicle.
Fred¡¯s frustration was palpable after a pause. ¡°It¡¯s hard to trust these online reports. If I hadn¡¯t checked with you, I would¡¯ve believed them too¡ I never imagined they were referring to you and Mr. Cox.¡±
¡°No,¡± Belinda began, her brows knitting together in frustration. ¡°The deceased¡ it¡¯s supposed to be me and you. Remember, Kristopher was mistaken for you because he was wearing your clothes. That¡¯s what started the chase.¡±
There was a brief pause on the other end before Fred replied, ¡°Yes, I understand. I owe Mr. Cox a debt of gratitude for that¡¡±
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¡°I¡¯m not bringing this up so you¡¯ll feel grateful,¡± Belinda interjected sharply. ¡°Since you¡¯re hiding at your ssmate¡¯s ce, keep out of sight. Stay there for the next few days and use his inte ount if you need to go online. Act as if you¡¯re already dead.¡±
Fred paused, absorbing her words, and then realization dawned on him. ¡°Belinda, are you suggesting we meet one ruse with another to uncover the orchestrators?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± she confirmed, her eyes narrowing. ¡°Those pulling the strings will surely start snooping around to confirm our deaths as soon as they hear the news. If they find out we¡¯re unharmed, they¡¯ll juste up with another n.¡±
Fred understood the significance of the n. ¡°So we¡¯ll stay hidden, letting them believe the rumors are true. Once they¡¯ve achieved their goal and let their guard down, that¡¯s our chance to step in. We¡¯ll dig up the real schemers and gather evidence against them, right?¡±
Clutching his phone, Fred made a solemn vow. ¡°Belinda, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll follow your lead. I¡¯ll y the part of the dead man perfectly for the next few days!¡±
After exchanging a few final words with Fred, Belinda ended the call.
Just then, the door to the master bedroom swung open and shut. She pocketed her phone and walked upstairs.
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¡°He has a mild concussion,¡± Kayden informed her, carrying a medical kit as he emerged from the bedroom. His gaze dropped as he cleaned his hands with a sanitizing wipe. ¡°There¡¯s only one wound, the one you treated. It might be infected from the beach sand, so he¡¯s running a fever. He¡¯s taken some medication. The fever should break by tomorrow morning.¡±
He paused briefly before adding, ¡°But he¡¯s been delirious, likely due to exhaustion rather than just the concussion. He hasn¡¯t really rested welltely.¡±
Discarding the used wipe, Kayden looked up at Belinda, his expression detached. ¡°Has he been overwhelmed with work at thepany?¡± Kristopher had been severely sleep-deprived for thest few days.
¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Belinda responded with a furrowed brow. ¡°We¡¯re divorced.¡±
Kayden stopped, seeming to recall that fact suddenly. ¡°Right, I shouldn¡¯t have asked you. I¡¯ll check with Cathy.¡±
With a slight sigh, he gave Belinda a lingering look. ¡°I thought you two were close. What changed so abruptly?¡±
Belinda¡¯s response was a wry smile. ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. We were never really connected.¡±
Hearing this, Kayden raised his eyebrows in surprise. ¡°Really?¡± he asked.
He recalled a moment from two and a half years ago when Kristopher had retained only him and Renee from among all the doctors, expressing his deep appreciation for Belinda¡¯s dedicated care. He had promised to look after her well from then on.
Despite having served as Kristopher¡¯s family doctor for the past two years, Kayden had always maintained professional boundaries and never inquired into Kristopher¡¯s personal affairs. However, he hadn¡¯t anticipated that Belinda would im there were no feelings between them.
¡°Yes,¡± she affirmed.
Taking a deep breath, Belinda decided she didn¡¯t want to discuss this matter with Kayden any longer. ¡°I¡¯ll see you out,¡± she offered.
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¡°No, thanks,¡± Kayden declined with a wave of his hand. ¡°His fever hasn¡¯t subsided yet. You should take good care of him.¡±
He paused, feeling his advice might have been too forward, and added, ¡°Or perhaps you could call Cathy to look after him.¡±
Belinda nced at the distant wall clock. It was already half-past midnight.
With a bitter smile, she replied, ¡°Forget it.¡±
She knew that if Cathy found out she was still with Kristopher at this hour, it would onlyplicate matters further.
Without another word, Kayden turned and left.
The vi¡¯s door was shut. Belinda, surrounded by the tranquil atmosphere of the vi, inhaled deeply before making her way to the master bedroom.
Inside, Kristophery still, his pallor ghostly, eyes shut, mumbling a single name repeatedly. ¡°Cathy¡¡±
A crease formed on Belinda¡¯s brow as she battled the rising tide of her emotions. She perched on the edge of the bed and, pulling out her phone, started scrolling through the news. It was much like she had done three years earlier, right after their wedding. Latest content published on Find_Novel(.
Her findings echoed Fred¡¯s earlier words.
Online, rumors swirled about a car ident involving a man and a woman fleeing the scene. ounts varied. Some imed the pair had perished, others insisted they were hospitalized but gravely injured.
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Yet all these stories were mere spection, unsupported by any proof. Growing weary of the baseless rumors, Belinda was about to close the app when a post from Cathy caught her eye.
Cathy had shared an update about the car ident, adding her own somberment. ¡°May the deceased rest in peace.¡±
As Belinda read Cathy¡¯s post, a cold sneer crossed her lips.
¡°Rest in peace?¡±
Did Cathy truly wish that someone had perished in that dreadful ident? This was no longer mere spection; Cathy¡¯s actions, sharing the news and adding such ament, confirmed Belinda¡¯s suspicions. Why on earth would Cathy be obsessing over this piece of social gossip in the dead of night?
Cathy was famously known among her followers as a fragile girl who cherished her beauty sleep, only staying upte for shoots. Normally, she wouldn¡¯t bother with news outside of showbiz. Yet here she was, not only awake but sharing the news on social media, apanied by a solemn ¡°rest in peace¡± added to her post.
It was clear that she held this news close to her heart.
Could it be that Cathy was thrilled by the news? The thought made Belinda take a deep breath. She captured a screenshot of Cathy¡¯s post, saved it, and put away her phone. Then, her gaze turned back to the unconscious man before her.
What would Kristopher think if he woke up to find that Cathy had dered him dead online?
Meanwhile, at Peace Hospital, the atmosphere in one particr room was anything but subdued.
Cathy, having tossed aside her usual demure persona and no longer pretending to be a patient battling cancer, cracked open a can of cold c. After finishing it, she hurled the empty can to the floor and let out a loud belch. ¡°Sweet!¡±
Even sweeter, though, was the news that Belinda and Fred had been in an ident.
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¡°Cathy,¡± her agent Jessa called out, bending down to retrieve the can, her brow furrowed in disapproval. ¡°That post you made¡ªdon¡¯t you think it¡¯s a bit over the line? Those online rumors about the man and woman being carted off by a hearse are just that¡ªrumors without proof. Posting about them resting in peace now¡ if they aren¡¯t actually dead, you could be used of spreading false rumors.¡±
¡°Whatever,¡± Cathy replied nonchntly, lounging against the bed¡¯s headboard with a bag of chips in hand. ¡°The car was totaled, and the vehicles of our men pursuing them exploded. Even if those two survived, they¡¯re probably badly hurt. If it turns out¡¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? Find?Novel
¡°They aren¡¯t dead, I¡¯ll just pull the post and apologize, iming I got too caught up in the social media frenzy, right?¡±
Jessa¡¯s concern remained evident. ¡°Why not delete the post now? It¡¯ste, and hardly anyone has seen it yet¡¡±
Cathy paused, looking at her agent with a hint of irritation. ¡°What are you implying? That because I¡¯m d that woman ran into trouble and shared an update, you can dictate my actions?¡±
¡°Cathy,¡± Jessa said calmly, maintaining herposure. ¡°We¡¯re still in the dark about the identities of those two, so your post is irrelevant for now. But imagine if itteres out that the woman is Belinda¡ What then? You¡¯ve already lost face tonight because of her, and now, after her ident in the wee hours, you¡¯ve gone ahead and posted ¡®rest in peace.¡¯ If word gets out, even if you¡¯re innocent, suspicion will fall on you.¡±
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Message from Noah: Have a great weekend dear ones. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (? ?? ? ¨C ? ) ?
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Chapter 291
?Chapter 291:
Jessa paused, adding, ¡°And to top it off, Cathy, you really orchestrated all of this.¡±
As Jessa finished speaking, Cathy¡¯s face drained of color. After a moment of tense silence, she let out a derisive snort. ¡°So disgusting.¡±
With a flick of her wrist, she logged into her social media ount and began deleting the post she had shared earlier.
After that, she couldn¡¯t resist checking her messages again. The text she had sent Kristopher over an hour ago still hung unanswered. Was he sleeping?
It was such a shame.
She had been eager to share the news of Belinda¡¯s potential demise with him the moment it happened.
Kristopher slept through the entire night. Find the newest release on FindN()vel
It was five in the morning when his fever finally broke. The sky was just beginning to lighten as he slowly began to regain consciousness. He blinked at the familiar ceiling above him, realizing that he was in the master bedroom of the Riviera Vis.
How did he end up here?
A vague feeling of having had a long dream lingered in his mind. In it, he was back at the beach from five years ago. One particr moment kept repeating in his thoughts ¡ª the time Cathy had rescued him at the beach, the time when he had lost his sight.
Kristopher recalled that he kept calling out her name, but she never responded.
He felt a slight throbbing in his head, and memories of the previous night slowly began to piece together. Closing his eyes, Kristopher remembered driving with Belinda when they got into the car ident. He recalled how, at the most crucial moment, he had been terrified that Belinda would get hurt. He remembered disregarding his own safety and shielding her with his body.
Then, the image of Belinda¡¯s tearful eyes came to his mind. Her voice had trembled when she asked him, ¡°Will we¡ will we die?¡±
His eyes flew open, and he immediately sat up in bed. ¡°Belinda!¡±
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¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± a hushed voice asked from his bedside. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re awake?¡±
Frowning, Kristopher turned to see a still sleepy Belinda. She yawned and stretched her arms, her face marked by dark circles under her eyes and still pale with exhaustion. It looked like she had spent the night on the hard, wooden chair.
Kristopher¡¯s chest ached at the sight of her worn-out appearance. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you sleep in the guest room?¡± he asked, his voice surprisingly gentle, even to himself.
The vi had more than enough rooms to amodate her.
Belinda yawned again and stood up. ¡°You were running a fever from the infection on your wound. I was worried your condition would worsen during the night.¡±
A pang of guilt stabbed at his heart. ¡°I am a grown, healthy man. I wouldn¡¯t die from fever. You shouldn¡¯t have stayed up all night.¡±
Belinda clicked her tongue and shook her head. ¡°You fainted from your fever. Of course, you needed someone to watch over you. Back when you were in a vegetative state¡¡± She suddenly cut herself off.
For a second there, she almost forgot that Kristopher hated any mention of his shameful history. He never liked the fact that she had taken care of him in the past.
¡°Sorry,¡± Belinda muttered. She took a deep breath and turned toward the door. ¡°Are you hungry? I¡¯ll go make breakfast.¡±
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Chapter 292
?Chapter 292:
Kristopher watched her go, his brows knitted into a tight frown.
He reached for his phone, intending to check the time, only to find the screen shattered, likely from the ident. He couldn¡¯t even unlock the device.
Kristopher gingerly got out of bed and headed to the bathroom. After a simple wash, he went downstairs to look for Belinda. ¡°Let me use your phone.¡±
She was at the kitchen counter, kneading dough for her handmade noodles. Flour covered her hands and the upper half of her apron.
Belinda turned around and lifted her apron to reveal one of her waist pockets.
Kristopher nced at the phone peeking from under it, then his gaze flitted over to her t belly. It lingered there.
¡°You¡¯ll have to take it yourself,¡± she prompted when he froze in ce. ¡°My hands are dirty.¡±
Her voice pulled Kristopher back to his senses. He cleared his throat and walked over to grab the phone.
But Belinda¡¯s pocket was shallow, and as he pulled the phone out, the back of his hand identally brushed against her lower abdomen.
The fabric of Belinda¡¯s dress was thin and airy, and although the contact was brief, the heat of their bodies seemed to have imprinted itself on their skin.
All at once, scenes from that one fateful night they had shared shed in both of their minds.
No one spoke as the air in the kitchen grew heavy, charged with sexual tension.
The atmosphere in the kitchen grew thick with tension, heavy and suffocating. Belinda furrowed her brows as her gaze instinctively met Kristopher¡¯s. Their eyes locked, a silent understanding passing between them. For two years, they had shared a closeness that was now palpable in this simple exchange.
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened slightly as he set her phone down. Without a word, he gently lifted her and ced her on the kitchen counter. The cool surface beneath her made Belinda shiver involuntarily. Kristopher positioned himself between her legs, hisrge hand tracing the outline of her lips as he leaned in, as if to seal the moment with a kiss.
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But just as their faces neared, the sound of the front door swinging open shattered the stillness. The moment was broken, pulling them both back to reality. Before either could recover, Marc entered, arms loaded with bags.
The scent of milk lingered in the air as Marc stepped in. Back when Belinda and Kristopher were married, mornings often found her in the kitchen, preparing breakfast. Marc,ing to deliver documents or discuss business, would frequently find her there, starting the day with a familiar routine.
As the smell of milk wafted through the kitchen, Marc couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Mrs. Cox, you¡¯re up early making breakfast?¡± His question hung in the air, unanswered.
Furrowing his brow, Marc instinctively nced toward the kitchen, only to be caught off guard by the scene before him. His gaze quickly averted, and he muttered, ¡°Am I¡ am I interrupting something?¡±
Hadn¡¯t Kayden said Kristopher was still unconscious? How was he up so early and¡ so intimate with his ex-wife in the kitchen? Had he really been injuredst night?
In the kitchen, Belinda¡¯s cheeks red a fiery red. Hastily, she shoved Kristopher away, hopped off the countertop, and spun around to wash her hands. Her movements were erratic as she resumed cooking, trying to regain some semnce of control. For more chapters visit find?novel
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Chapter 293
?Chapter 293:
Kristopher, on the other hand, remained calm. Now that Marc had arrived, he no longer needed to borrow her phone. He picked it up, his voice low and hoarse. ¡°Do you want me to put it back?¡±
Belinda¡¯s face flushed crimson instantly. She was too flustered to care about whether the phone was dirty. She grabbed it back hastily and set it aside, muttering, ¡°No need.¡± If only she had known it woulde to this¡ She would never have let him pull the phone from her pocket just for convenience.
As he observed the blush spreading across her cheeks, Kristopher felt an inexplicable surge of pleasure. He turned and left the kitchen, settling himself on the living room sofa. Soon after, Marc approached, presenting him with a new phone.
¡°Last night, ma¡¯am mentioned that your phone was damaged in the ident, so I procured a recement for you overnight. It has your original number, and all your usual apps and ounts have been set up,¡± he exined with respect.
Kristopher nodded, pleased, as he powered on the new device and asked casually, ¡°What about the men in ck fromst night?¡±
Marc understood immediately that he was referring to the attackers in the SUVs that had crashed into the roadblock and exploded. ¡°They survived, sir, though they¡¯re all hospitalized with various injuries. The police have them under surveince, and I¡¯ve arranged for our people to monitor them as well.¡±
After a moment¡¯s pause, Kristopher inquired, his tone detached, ¡°Have we figured out who¡¯s behind them?¡±
Marc hesitated before responding. Clearing his throat, he finally said, ¡°We¡¯ve made some discoveries¡¡± He ced a document on the coffee table before Kristopher. ¡°Sir¡ It involves apany named Kristopher and Cathy¡ Does that sound familiar?¡± For original chapters go to F?ndNovel
Kristopher and Cathy?
As Kristopher sifted through the papers, his brow furrowed. ¡°I recognize that name,¡± he muttered.
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Four years ago, during the height of his romance with Cathy, she had expressed a desire to break into show business. She talked about setting up her own studio for her debut.
However, the reality of navigating the entertainment industry without the backing of an established agency proved too much for her small studio, and it was soon abandoned.
If his memory was urate, they had named the studio ¡°Kristopher and Cathy.¡±
¡°About those peoplest night¡¡± Marc¡¯s voice dropped to a whisper as he noticed Kristopher engrossed in the document. ¡°The one who coordinated their actions, handled the payments, and sent them to Nawrin University to capture Fred¡ was from Kristopher and Cathy.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s grip on the document tightened at Marc¡¯s revtion. Marc¡¯s soft voice continued, ¡°Fred even posted online yesterday iming it was Kristopher and Cathy who financed thoseizens.¡±
He paused before adding, ¡°Essentially, it was Kristopher and Cathy who unleashed those vile attacks on Mrs. Cox online, branding her a mistress.¡±
At this, Kristopher¡¯s frown deepened.
Although the studio bore his name, Cathy had been the sole operator since its establishment. Since ceasing its operations four years ago, Cathy had never brought it up again.
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Chapter 294
?Chapter 294:
He believed the studio had been shut down years ago.
To his surprise, not only did the studio still exist, but it had also been causing trouble behind his back.
The words Belinda had spoken the previous night reyed in his mind:
¡°That leaves only two people who could have done this, you or Cathy. The only wealthy people he¡¯s managed to offend are you and Cathy.¡±
A headache began to throb in Kristopher¡¯s temples.
He nced down at the documents in his hand. Chapters first released on ?ovelFind
They contained detailed information about Kristopher and Cathy. His eyes instinctively moved to the section listing the studio¡¯s official legal representative.
The name listed wasn¡¯t Cathy, but Jessa Chadwick.
¡°Jessa Chadwick is Miss Miller¡¯s agent,¡± Marc pointed out, noticing Kristopher¡¯s focus on the name. ¡°Four years ago, Miss Miller changed agencies and transferred ownership of the studio to Jessa. It¡¯s been under Jessa¡¯s name ever since.¡±
Marc paused, studying Kristopher¡¯s expression intently.
Seeing the frustration on Kristopher¡¯s face, Marc bit his lip and offered a gentle reassurance. ¡°Although it¡¯s all done by Kristopher and Cathy, it¡¯s been Jessa¡¯s for years. Perhaps¡ Miss Miller isn¡¯t aware of what Jessa has been up to¡¡±
¡°Do you believe that?¡±
Kristopher, lounging on the couch, furrowed his brow and tossed the document onto the table. His voice was icy, detached. ¡°I also have somepanies under your name. Since when do you get to make all the decisions?¡±
Marc remained silent, his head bowed.
He understood that often the legal representative of apany wasn¡¯t the true power behind it.
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His remark was meant to curry favor with Kristopher.
It wasmon knowledge in Nawrin how deeply Kristopher and Cathy were in love.
Marc worried that Kristopher¡¯s judgment might be clouded by his emotions, leading him to trust Cathy implicitly.
Fortunately, it seemed his boss wasn¡¯t so easily swayed by affection. Kristopher lifted his gaze just as Belinda in the kitchen caught his eye, causing him to scowl.
Belinda was right.
The flurry of online rumors and Fred¡¯s arrestst night¡
Cathy was linked to all of it!
Just then, Kristopher¡¯s phone broke the tense silence with its insistent ring.
He nced down, spotting Cathy¡¯s name shing on the caller ID.
After a brief hesitation, he answered, ¡°Hello?¡±
Kristopher¡¯s gentle voice cut through the air, his words soft but thoughtful. ¡°Cathy.¡±
The sound of her voice echoed through the phone, almost teasing. ¡°Are you awake?¡±
Kristopher rubbed his forehead, still feeling the ache from the events of the previous night. ¡°I¡¯m awake.¡±
¡°I figured you¡¯d be up by now,¡± Cathy said with a yful, almost flirtatious tone. ¡°I sent you a messagest night, but you didn¡¯t reply. I thought maybe you¡¯d gone to bed early. But, seeing the time, I guessed you¡¯d be awake now, so I decided to call.¡±
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Chapter 295
?Chapter 295:
Despite Cathy¡¯s upbeat tone, Kristopher could detect a hint of fatigue, a subtle weariness that caught his attention.
Frowning slightly, he nced at the wall clock.
It was six o¡¯clock in the morning. Normally, even if Cathy weren¡¯t asleep, she would have just woken up. So why was she calling at this hour?
He stood up, his curiosity getting the better of him. Walking towards the door, he asked softly, ¡°Cathy, when did you wake up?¡±
In the kitchen, Belinda emerged, carrying a steaming bowl of hand-pulled noodles, ready to ce it on the dining table. But Kristopher¡¯s voice gave her pause. ¡°Why don¡¯t you sleep a bit longer? You have several shoots today, and aren¡¯t you worried about not being in good condition?¡±
His voice was filled with concern, a tenderness that Belinda hadn¡¯t expected. But as his footsteps faded into the distance, the mention of a shoot made it clear who was on the other end of the line.
Belinda froze, the bowl in her hands suddenly feeling heavy. Her body stiffened as the realization hit her. With Marc¡¯s usual efficiency, she was sure he had already uncovered who had orchestrated the events ofst night against Fred. Now that Marc had arrived with the documents, Kristopher must have pieced together everything¡ªfrom the scheme to the people involved¡ªand traced it all back to Cathy.
The people she had arranged had nearly cost both Belinda and Kristopher their lives. And yet, Kristopher¡¯s voice remained gentle when addressing her, as if he didn¡¯t take her actions seriously at all.
Was Kristopher¡¯s love for Cathy run so deep that he refused to believe she could have nearly killed him?
¡°Mrs. Cox?¡±
Marc¡¯s voice snapped Belinda from her thoughts. She ced the noodle bowl on the table and exhaled, pushing aside her turbulent thoughts. ¡°Of course,¡± she replied, nodding. ¡°I guessed you haven¡¯t eaten yet so early.¡±
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Marc¡¯s face brightened. ¡°Then thank you, Mrs. Cox!¡±
Belinda frowned as her gaze drifted toward the window, where Kristopher still stood in the yard, smiling as he continued his call. ¡°Don¡¯t call me Mrs. Cox,¡± she said tly. ¡°Kristopher and I are already divorced.¡±
Marc smiled awkwardly. ¡°I apologize, Miss Nelson¡ªit¡¯s just a habit.¡± ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? Find¡ïNovel
¡°Even habits need to change.¡±
Belinda withdrew her gaze and returned to her tasks in the kitchen. Regardless of everything, Kristopher had been injured the previous night trying to save her and Fred. She owed him, and there were still matters to attend to.
Outside in the vi¡¯s yard, Kristopher frowned as he clutched his phone, his tone t. ¡°How did you know there were fatalities inst night¡¯s car ident?¡±
Cathy¡¯s voice brimmed with certainty. ¡°I read about it online. Someone said they saw a hearse take away two bodies from the beachst night.¡± She sighed, her voice faint with regret. ¡°I don¡¯t know if their identities have been confirmed yet. If their families know¡ they must be heartbroken. What were theirst thoughts as they were hit and died on that beach?¡±
Belinda fell silent for a moment, sorrow washing over her, then she continued slowly, ¡°Kristopher, do you remember four years ago? My sister Joyce¡ she had an ident at night too, and no one was there to save her. That¡¯s why she didn¡¯t make it through until dawn and passed away¡ I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s because¡±
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Chapter 296
?Chapter 296:
You had mentioned Joyce a few days ago, but when I saw this news today and thought of those two people, I couldn¡¯t help but think of her. Cathy took a steadying breath, as if bracing herself. ¡°Kristopher, why don¡¯t we help those two deceased individuals? Let¡¯s confirm their identities and find their families so they can finally rest in peace.¡±
The words ¡°rest in peace¡± caused Kristopher¡¯s brows to furrow deeply. If anyone else had spoken of caring forst night¡¯s ident victims, he might have regarded them aspassionate. But the victims were himself and Belinda.
With that in mind, he couldn¡¯t help but frown. Had someone else uttered those words, he would suspect an ulterior motive¡ªan attempt to dissociate themselves from the crime by feigning concern. Yet it was Cathy who had spoken them. She had always embodied gentleness and kindness.
Five years ago, at eighteen, she had rescued him from the beach and tended him devotedly. Four years ago, when her sister took her own life, Cathy knelt before her parents for two days and nights, fasting in her grief. Three years ago, unwilling to burden him with her terminal illness, she vanished overnight to seek treatment abroad alone.
It was hard for Kristopher to reconcile this selfless Cathy with the maniptive figure Marc had described. He was even less inclined to believe she would take pleasure in causing harm and then twist the circumstances to her advantage. Yet all the evidencey inly before him.
He shut his eyes, pain etched across his features. His lips twitched as he spoke in a t, emotionless tone. ¡°Those two have nothing to do with us. There¡¯s no need to waste our time on them.¡±
Normally, when he rejected her requests, Cathy would quietly drop the subject and wait for a better time to revisit it. But this time, her voice was urgent. ¡°Kristopher, how can you say it¡¯s a waste of time? What if there is a connection between us and those two?¡±
She paused mid-sentence as a realization dawned on her and quickly changed tack. ¡°Their families are probably worried sick about them. I just want to offer a bit of kindness to strangers.¡±
Disappointment flickered in Kristopher¡¯s gaze. ¡°Then arrange for someone to look for them.¡±
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He sighed. ¡°If you need assistance, talk to Marc. I have no interest in tracking down rtives for strangers caught in car idents.¡±
On the other end of the line, Cathy was taken aback by his dismissive stance. After a brief silence, she replied with a forced smile, ¡°Kristopher, what I meant was that we could handle it together.¡±
¡°You know I¡¯ve recently started my own jewelry business and it¡¯s taking up all my time.¡±
Kristopher cut her off. ¡°Cathy, concentrate on your work and stay out of such trivial matters.¡± He ended the call before she could respond.
In the hospital room, Cathy leaned against the bed, phone in hand, words still on her lips. The abrupt busy signal made her brow crease in confusion. ¡°He just hung up on me?¡±
Since returning to the country, Cathy had been calling Kristopher nearly ten times a day. He had always insisted on being thest to hang up, but today, he had disconnected first.
Narrowing her eyes, she reyed his words in her mind, a nagging suspicion forming. ¡°Something¡¯s off¡ There¡¯s something wrong with Kristopher.¡± She turned to Jessa and said decisively, ¡°Find out where Kristopher is. I need to see him myself.¡±
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Chapter 297
?Chapter 297:
When Kristopher pocketed his phone and returned to the vi, Belinda and Marc were already seated at the dining table, enjoying a meal.
Marc, sitting slightly to the side of Belinda, was enthusiastically slurping noodles. Hevished praise on her culinary skills, eximing, ¡°Miss Nelson, this bowl of noodles is the best I¡¯ve had in years! I¡¯ve only ever seen you prepare breakfast for Mr. Cox, and while it looked appealing, I never imagined it would taste this exquisite!¡±
Somewhat flustered by the continuouspliments, Belinda responded, ¡°If you really enjoy it, I¡¯d be happy to make it for you again sometime.¡±
Marc¡¯s response was nothing new. He was the fourth person, following Madisyn, Joyce, and Anthony, to acim her cooking.
Her offer immediately lit up Marc¡¯s eyes. ¡°Really? Can I look forward to more in the future? It¡¯s so¡¡±
Before Marc could finish his words, he was abruptly interrupted. ¡°Enough with the chatter,¡± a deep male voice interjected from behind them, adding with a touch of irritation, ¡°You never stop talking, even while eating noodles.¡±
Startled, Marc quickly bowed his head and fell silent, instinctively scooting his chair to the side to clear a space for Kristopher to sit directly opposite Belinda.
Kristopher, observing Marc¡¯s quickpliance, raised an eyebrow but remained silent as he took his seat.
The noodles before him had gotten cold, which was less than ideal since he preferred his food hot.
Noticing Kristopher¡¯s displeased look at the cooled noodles, Belinda suggested, ¡°Would you like me to warm them up for you?¡±
Still silent, Kristopher pushed the bowl of noodles toward her.
His entitled attitude caused Belinda to frown at him. Checktest chapters at find?novel
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Throughout their marriage, she had amodated his preferences, including reheating his food. Now, despite their divorce, he seemed to expect her to continue doing so.
Belinda remained still as she caught his expectant look. Kristopher looked up at her and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±
He appeared genuinely confused, clearly unable to understand what was on her mind.
Belinda paused and then let out a self-deprecatingugh. ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± she finally said.
After all, he hade to her aid the previous night and had suffered injuries as a result. She felt that assisting him now was not too much to ask. But internally, she vowed this would be thest time.
As she rose with the bowl, ready to head out, she noticed Marc¡¯s empty bowl.
Recalling his praise for her noodles, Belinda raised an eyebrow at Marc. ¡°Are you full? There¡¯s more in the pot. Would you like me to get you some more?¡±
It turned out that Marc was far from satisfied. He had spent the entire night managing the fallout from Kristopher¡¯s car ident, too preupied to sleep or eat.
So when Belinda made her offer, he responded with a grateful smile and handed her his empty bowl. ¡°Thank you, Miss Nelson,¡± he said.
With a smile, Belinda quickly took both bowls and headed into the kitchen.
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Chapter 298
?Chapter 298:
As Marc watched her walk away, his admiration for her grew. He felt that Belinda was trulymendable and that Kristopher had surely erred in choosing to divorce her for Cathy.
Beside Marc, Kristopher noticed his lingering gaze on Belinda and felt a chill of disapproval.
Eventually, he reached his limit and sharply tapped Marc¡¯s head.
Marc was jolted back to the moment and turned to Kristopher reflexively. ¡°Mr. Cox¡¡±
¡°Can¡¯t you get the noodles yourself if you¡¯re still hungry?¡± Kristopher¡¯s gaze was icy as he confronted Marc. ¡°What gives you the right tomand her?¡±
Marc was shocked.
He had merely asked Belinda for another serving of noodles. Did it really warrant such a reaction?
In the past, when Belinda was still married to Kristopher, she had often helped Marc without any issue. Back then, Kristopher just observed quietly, never reacting the way he did now.
Why hadn¡¯t it bothered Kristopher before?
Now that he was separated from Belinda, it seemed as if Kristopher was interpreting Marc¡¯s simple request as an overstep.
¡°Marc and I are just friends,¡± Belinda interjected before Marc could even respond. She ced a freshly filled bowl in front of him, her voice firm yet gentle. ¡°I¡¯m helping because he¡¯s my friend, not because he¡¯smanding me. Marc and I are on equal ground.¡±
After stating this, her tone softened as she smiled at Marc. ¡°Enjoy your meal. There¡¯s plenty more if you¡¯re still hungry.¡±
Gratefully, Marc responded, ¡°Thank you, Miss Nelson.¡±
Belinda¡¯s expression softened further, and she suggested, ¡°You don¡¯t need to be so formal with me. You can call me Belinda, just like my other friends do.¡±
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Marc¡¯s eyes lit up at the offer.
Meanwhile, Kristopher¡¯s gaze hardened, the temperature beside him dropping noticeably.
Marc looked up, offering a stiff smile. ¡°Okay¡ Belinda.¡±
Belinda returned the smile, her eyes glinting with a hint of defiance as she nced at Kristopher before turning to head back to the kitchen. Kristopher¡¯s gaze followed her, his features tightening, and the air around him grew even colder.
Caught in the middle of their silent battle, Marc found himself grappling with his emotions. The once appealing noodles now seemed unappetizing. Fresh chapters posted on Find~Novel
He cleared his throat slightly, hoping to shift the subject. ¡°Mr. Cox¡¡± With a sideways nce, he asked, ¡°Did Miss Miller reach out to exinst night¡¯s incident at the studio?¡±
Kristopher turned away from watching Belinda heat his noodles in the kitchen. He simply said, ¡°No.¡±
He then frowned, adding with a note of sarcasm, ¡°Cathy expressed deep sympathy after hearing about the deathst night. She asked me to identify the deceased and contact their family quickly so they can rest in peace.¡±
Marc looked at Kristopher with wide-open eyes, full of surprise. ¡°Miss Miller¡ She is so kind.¡±
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Chapter 299
?Chapter 299:
Kristopher scoffed. ¡°If one of the two people she mentioned as dead is me, then I might also think she is kind.¡±
Marc was about to fork the noodles. Suddenly, his hand stopped.
It took him a moment to grasp that the deaths Cathy mentioned were not those of the men injured inst night¡¯s explosion but potentially Kristopher and Belinda.
¡°Well¡¡± Marc began, slowly processing the implications. It would certainly cast suspicion on Cathy¡¯s request to verify the deceased¡¯s identities and locate their families.
Just then, Belinda emerged from the kitchen, bringing the reheated bowl of noodles for Kristopher.
As she approached, the two men abruptly changed the subject, focusing intently on their noodles.
Belinda was seated across from them. She observed their quiet meal with a sense of relief. ¡°Kayden mentioned that Mr. Cox¡¯s car ident wasn¡¯t seriousst night. With some rest, your wound infection and fever should improve. Now that Marc is here¡¡± She rose from her seat and said, ¡°I should head back.¡±
After all, she had an important meeting scheduled for today.
Rnd had arranged for her to meet with senior executives from the cooperativepany.
It was already seven in the morning, and she needed to prepare materials and speeches for the meeting at the studio.
Kristopher, still eating, lifted his head to give her a cold nce. ¡°Where are you going? Remember, in the eyes of the public, you¡¯re supposed to be dead.¡±
Belinda was taken aback. ¡°But¡¡±
Before she could get another word in, the doorbell chimed.
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Simultaneously, Cathy¡¯s voice resonated from outside the vi.
¡°Kristopher, open the door! It¡¯s me!¡±
All three of them froze at the sound.
Belinda and Marc exchanged a look before turning to Kristopher in unison.
Kristopher calmly put his fork down. ¡°I didn¡¯t tell her toe.¡±
¡°If you didn¡¯t, then why is she knocking at the door right now?¡± Belinda retorted, not believing a word he just said. ¡°Marc himself said that this is a very secluded area. Even I was unaware of this property. How could she possibly find it without you telling her?¡±
Kristopher had been on a call with Cathy less than thirty minutes ago, and now she was here. There was no way he had nothing to do with it.
¡°It¡¯s true that this ce is secluded, but it isn¡¯tpletely off the grid. If she was purposely looking for it, it wouldn¡¯t be that difficult to find it.¡± Kristopher leaned over the table and stared at Belinda. ¡°There is a secret room behind the oil painting at the end of the second-floor corridor. The password is 0628. If you don¡¯t want Cathy to see you, you need to go and hide. Now.¡±
Belinda frowned. For more chapters visit f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l?
She wasn¡¯t fond of the idea of having to sneak around, but she also knew that this wasn¡¯t the right time to run into Cathy.
She contemted her options and narrowed her eyes at Kristopher. ¡°Are you sure you didn¡¯t tell her toe here?¡±
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Chapter 300
?Chapter 300:
To be fair, he wouldn¡¯t have directed her to a hiding ce if he had indeed invited Cathy over.
¡°Why bother asking if you won¡¯t believe me, anyway?¡± Kristopher countered with a cold nce. Then he turned to Marc and said, ¡°Open the door.¡±
¡°Yes, Mr. Cox,¡± Marc nodded, then slowly made his way to the front door.
Belinda clicked her tongue in frustration and hurried upstairs.
Thankfully, the oil painting in question was easy to find.
She pushed the frame a little to the side and found the keypad. Belinda entered the password, her heart skipping a beat as the digits registered in her mind.
If she wasn¡¯t mistaken, 0628 was the same date five years ago, when she had saved a blind Kristopher down on the beach.
The thought made her head spin, and she swayed slightly on her feet.
That familiar, intense feeling surged in Belinda¡¯s chest once again.
The decor of this vi, the password¡
Belinda couldn¡¯t help but connect everything to that incident five years ago.
¡°Kristopher, why did it take you so long to open the door? I¡¯ve been waiting outside for ages!¡±
Cathy¡¯s whiny voice suddenly rang out, traveling up to the second floor and pulling Belinda back to her senses.
She took a deep breath to steady herself, then stepped into the secret room and closed the door behind her.
As soon as it clicked shut, the painting slid back into its original ce with a dull thud.
In the living room downstairs, Cathy suddenly looked up, her eyebrows raised. ¡°What was that sound? Is someone else here, Kristopher?¡±
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Kristopher hadn¡¯t even looked at her once. He kept eating his noodles. ¡°You must be hearing things.¡±
His dismissive response made Cathy doubt her own judgment. She turned to Marc with a frown. ¡°Was I?¡±
Marc nodded. ¡°I believe so. Perhaps you¡¯re tired from the travel, Miss Miller, and starting to have auditory hallucinations? I have very sharp hearing, if I may say so myself, and I heard nothing just now.¡±
To drive home his point, Marc added, ¡°This sound, Miss Miller¡ can you describe it for us?¡±
Cathy made a face. How was she supposed to do that? ¡°I might have misheard. Never mind.¡±
She set her suspicions aside and stered a wide smile on her face. She walked to the dining table and sat down across from Kristopher, on the same chair Belinda had vacated. ¡°When did you buy this ce, Kristopher? Why are you hiding away in this god-awful ce? If I hadn¡¯t asked Maggie about your whereabouts, I might have never found you at all!¡±
Cathy braced her elbows on the table and cupped her face, trying hard to look cute. She looked around the vi and almost rolled her eyes. ¡°And the interior decor of this ce¡ God. I hate this traditional style the most. It just looks so¡ old and boring. How can someone like you like such a drab aesthetic?¡±
Her words immediately made Kristopher pause. ¡°You hate this style?¡±
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Chapter 301
?Chapter 301:
Cathy¡¯s smile lit up the room. ¡°Of course, Kristopher. We¡¯ve known each other for so many years. Apart from the clothes specified by the brand for advertising shoots, when have you ever seen me wear floral or id skirts or anything with a pastoral vibe? It¡¯s just not my scene. How could I possibly pull it off?¡±
She tilted her head, batting her big eyes at him with an irresistibly cute expression. ¡°But hey, if this style is your thing, I¡¯ll give it my best shot. Anything for you, right?¡±
Her smile turned positively enchanting, her eyes sparkling. ¡°But seriously, Kristopher, isn¡¯t this more of a little-girl thing?¡±
Every move, every word from Cathy was meticulously calcted. In the past, whenever she employed that innocent charm, Kristopher had been putty in her hands. No matter what she asked, he always caved. Cathy assumed this time would be no different.
However, confusion clouded Kristopher¡¯s face instead of indulgence. ¡°But remember five years ago, when we first met? Your sister swore this style was yours.¡±
The room fell into a sudden hush, and Cathy¡¯s hope for his warmth faded. She forced an awkward smile. ¡°Is that so? I must have forgotten, especially after getting sick again.¡±
Kristopher narrowed his eyes. ¡°Cathy, you seem to forget a lot.¡±
From her love of red to her knack for racing, and now even her preferred style.
He¡¯d consulted doctors, who assured him that memory loss in terminal patients was usually selective, focusing on one aspect at most. Yet Cathy seemed to have erased everything but that fateful incident five years ago, when she and her sister had rescued him.
Kristopher¡¯s gaze stirred an inexplicable flutter in Cathy¡¯s heart. She feigned weakness, leaning on the table and massaging her temples. ¡°Maybe¡ maybe my condition has taken a turn for the worse¡¡±
As she spoke, Cathy lowered her head and hid behind her arms, avoiding Kristopher¡¯s gaze. Inside, she seethed with frustration. How much had Joyce told him about Belinda back then? Why did that wretched Belinda have such tacky tastes and notions?
Up in the partitioned area, Belinda stood quietly against the wall, her ear tuned to the sounds below. Her heart felt unbearably uneasy, as if gripped by an invisible force. Everything she¡¯d hoped for had been wishful thinking. Kristopher had decorated this vi to suit what he believed was Cathy¡¯s taste¡ªnot because of anything Joyce had said about Belinda five years ago, but because he assumed Cathy preferred this style.
Belinda couldn¡¯t help but scoff. Most likely, Kristopher had nned this surprise behind Cathy¡¯s back, convinced it matched her preferences. Yet his meticulous nning had veered off course. Cathy had apparently forgotten ever liking this style.
Downstairs, Kristopher set aside his fork after finishing his noodles. He dabbed at his mouth with a tissue and fixed his sharp, eagle-like gaze on Cathy. ¡°Do you recall the day we first crossed paths?¡±
Cathy rested her head on the table for a moment, then lifted her brow in deep contemtion. ¡°The day we met¡¡±
Upstairs, Belinda held her breath, straining to catch every sound from below. She couldn¡¯t shake her curiosity¡ªwhen had Cathy and Kristopher really met? It felt too precise to be mere coincidence that their first encounter fell on June 28th.
In the dining room, Cathy tilted her head and asked softly, ¡°Kristopher, are you testing me? We met on June 28th, right? It was scorching by the sea that day, and I ended up with a sunburn.¡±
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Chapter 302
?Chapter 302:
Kristopher¡¯s expression softened at her words. Perhaps her illness had truly stolen many of her memories.
In the hidden room, Belinda pressed her back against the wall and closed her eyes. She hadn¡¯t anticipated such a perfect alignment of dates. They had indeed first met on June 28th at the beach¡ªbut on an overcast day with no sun to cause a burn. Her hopes had been nothing more than wishful thinking. Kristopher had chosen this vi¡¯s d¨¦cor because he knew Cathy loved it, even setting the secret room¡¯s code to 0628 in honor of their meeting date.
Belindaughed bitterly to herself. She should have realized it sooner. If Kristopher remembered everything from five years ago, why had he remained silent for three years of marriage¡ªand through their divorce?
Suddenly, Marc¡¯s phone rang downstairs. He answered with a furrowed brow. ¡°Today¡¯s meeting¡ Well¡¡± He nced up at Kristopher, seeking his input.
Kristopher gave a casual wave. Marc, picking up on the unspoken cue, walked outside with his phone and said in a low voice, ¡°I¡¯m really sorry, Mr. Cox has some personal matters to attend to today¡¡± Chapters first released on Find_Novel(.
Watching Marc leave, Cathy bit her lip, turning to Kristopher. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to work today?¡±
¡°Nope.¡± Kristopher nced up at her briefly, his expression neutral. ¡°Didn¡¯t you want me to check on the identities of those two bodies we foundst night?¡± He casually fiddled with his phone. Looking at her indifferently, he added, ¡°You made a good point, so I¡¯lle with you to verify their identities.¡±
Cathy¡¯s face lit up immediately. ¡°That¡¯s wonderful!¡± she eximed. She stood up excitedly, walking around the table, and hurried to Kristopher¡¯s side. Grasping his arm with enthusiasm, she said, ¡°I know you love me! You¡¯ll agree to anything I ask!¡±
¡°Hmm.¡± Kristopher stood up smoothly and replied, ¡°Shall we go now?¡±
¡°Okay!¡± With a smile, Cathy held his arm, and they both made their way toward the exit.
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As they approached the door, Kristopher paused and looked back casually. ¡°I should get Marc to have someone wash the dishes and clean the kitchenter.¡±
In the secret room upstairs, Belinda rolled her eyes upon hearing his words. They were divorced, yet Kristopher still expected her to clean up after them. She had prepared the meal, and now he wanted her to clean the kitchen too? No way!
¡°Marc will handle it,¡± Cathy responded with a smile. ¡°I heard that the man who died in that ident might be a college student from Nawrin University. Maybe we can go to that university and look into him first.¡±
Kristopher¡¯s expression darkened slightly at this, though he remainedposed. ¡°Okay.¡±
As their voices faded, Belinda emerged from the secret room, frowning. Were Cathy and Kristopher nning to investigate the backgrounds of the two ¡°dead¡± people fromst night?
Cathy¡¯s mention of investigating with Kristopher at Nawrin University was nothing more than a ruse to lead him to a caf¨¦ across the street for coffee.
As they settled in, she eagerly pointed out her favorite to Kristopher. ¡°You remember, right? I¡¯ve been itching to bring you here for my favorite carameltte for three years¡ but I never had the chance.¡±
Kristopher, his brows furrowed as he scanned the menu, replied, ¡°I¡¯ve had their carameltte before.¡±
Having said that, he turned to the waiter and smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll have an iced Americano. Thanks.¡±
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Chapter 303
?Chapter 303:
His words momentarily extinguished Cathy¡¯s warm smile. She pursed her lips, then nced at the waiter. ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll have the carameltte.¡±
After the waiter left, Cathy turned to Kristopher with a look of curiosity. ¡°When did you have the carameltte here?¡± She winked at him and added, ¡°Was it during a time I wasn¡¯t around, and you visited here alone, thinking of me?¡±
Kristopher offered a nonmittal smile, his gaze shifting towards the distant sign of Nawrin University, his expression growing thoughtful. Indeed, he had been to this caf¨¦ before, but he hadn¡¯t been alone.
Back then, Kristopher had just emerged from a half-year-long vegetative state, awakening from a deepa and resistant to any changes in the outside world. Each day, he would sit stubbornly in his wheelchair, refusing to stand, interact, ormunicate, often showing temperamental and even hysterical reactions.
At the time, the person he resented the most was Belinda, who had married him while he was unconscious. Yet, she was also the one who showed him the most patience. Despite his resistance and angry outbursts, Belinda had persistently wheeled him to this very caf¨¦, right near Nawrin University, always recounting tales of her student days there. She shared her journey from being seen as a simple country girl to slowly adjusting to urban life. Her diligent efforts paid off as she made close friends and earned the respect of her peers.
Her stories were clich¨¦ and mundane, but she would often be lost in her memories, herughter filling the air as she recounted tales of old friends and past experiences.
At first, Kristopher was dismissive, frequently cutting her off with biting sarcasm, convinced that she was beyond any reason.
But over time, her persistent sincerity, evident in the sparkle of her eyes, began to sway him. Eventually, not only did he listen, but he also began to join her willingly, sipping her favorite carameltte as she repeated those same stories.
Though hesitant to admit it, her vibrant energy genuinely affected him. Under its influence, he started to ept himself as someone who had been seriously ill and began to embrace the world that had nearly forsaken him. The road to recovery, relearning, standing tall again, and regaining control of the Cox Group was steep.
In this journey, Belinda and her stories yed a crucial role. There was even a time when he thought spending his life with someone like Belinda wouldn¡¯t be too bad.
That was until he discovered her true motives and the reality behind her steadfast presence. From that point on, their interactions were purely obligatory, devoid of any deeper connection.
He never returned to this caf¨¦, and, over time, grew to dislike the taste of carameltte.
¡°Kristopher?¡±
Noticing Kristopher lost in thought, staring distantly at the university campus, Cathy¡¯s brow furrowed in annoyance as she called his name.
Snapping out of his reverie, he offered Cathy a smile. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to show me around?¡±
Her face showed a trace of difort. Back in the day, she had prioritized fun over her studies and failed to pass the entrance exams for any standard university, let alone the globally recognized Nawrin University.
Four years ago, in a bid to convince Kristopher that she was his savior, she had gone to great lengths to craft a convincing but fake Nawrin University diploma.
Despite her best efforts, a fake would always remain a fake.
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Chapter 304
?Chapter 304:
She had never set foot on Nawrin University¡¯s campus, so the thought of taking Kristopher inside filled her with dread. Realizing her predicament, she managed a strained smile.
¡°I¡¯m somewhat of a celebrity now. Stepping onto the campus would only stir up a scene. It¡¯s not a good idea.¡±
Kristopher raised an eyebrow, seemingly convinced. ¡°That makes sense.¡±
The online chatter about her was indeed less than ttering, and university students were particrly eager to follow inte trends. Soon, their coffees arrived.
As Cathy took her first sip, she discreetly sent a message on her phone. Momentster, the cafe door swung open.
Jessa entered, apanied by a male university student. They hurried inside, and Jessa spoke quickly, ¡°Cathy, we¡¯ve got a lead! This student ims that one of his ssmates vanished after leaving the dormitory in the middle of the night. He¡¯s still missing!¡±
Kristopher leaned against the booth in the coffee shop, epting the iced Americano that was just served. He cast an indifferent nce at the male college student trailing behind Jessa. He remembered that Fred was a student in the Department of Physical Education at Nawrin University. Yet the man trailing Jessa seemed far from a typical athlete. He was thin, pale, and appeared worn out, unlike Fred. The man hardly looked like someone skilled in sports.
¡°Really?¡± Cathy stood up abruptly as Jessa approached with the man, feigning agitation. ¡°His ssmate disappearedst night and still hasn¡¯t been found?¡±
¡°Yes.¡± Jessa nodded, her actions theatrical in sync with Cathy. ¡°I talked to this student. He told me his ssmate met a recently divorced woman who invited him outst night for car sex. But he¡¯s unreachable today. This student also saw the news online and suspected the deceased might be his ssmate, so he reached out to us¡¡±
¡°Yes,¡± the man behind Jessa quickly agreed, his voice soft and hoarse as if he had been sick for a long time. Hecked the vitality typical of a young man. ¡°Fred left after midnight. We feared something might happen to him. I saw the news early this morning about a man and woman who died in a car ident on the beach. We didn¡¯t connect it with Fred until we couldn¡¯t reach him today. Now, we¡¯re worried¡¡± Find the newest release on find{n}ovel
Cathy, looking thoughtful, was taken aback. ¡°Is your ssmate named Fred Schmidt? That name¡¡± She paused, turning to Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher, doesn¡¯t that name sound familiar?¡±
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Kristopher held his iced Americano, sipping it as he watched the others act. When Cathy questioned him about the name, he nodded, ying along smoothly. ¡°It does sound familiar. Fred Schmidt was quite close to Belinda.¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°That¡¯s him. If the man who disappearedst night was Fred, then who was the woman? A recently divorced woman¡¡± As she spoke, her eyes widened again, and she instinctively covered her mouth. ¡°Could it be¡ Miss Nelson?¡±
¡°No way,¡± Jessa chimed in quickly, supporting Cathy. ¡°Miss Nelson just divorced Mr. Cox, but she¡¯s still very attached to him. How could¡ª¡±
The student interrupted the two women. ¡°I¡¯ve seen the woman with Fred. Do you have a photo of Miss Nelson? I would recognize her immediately.¡±
¡°Yes, I¡¯ve got one,¡± Jessa said, pulling out her phone and quickly finding a photo. ¡°See if it¡¯s her.¡±
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Chapter 305
?Chapter 305:
The man looked at the photo and immediately became agitated. ¡°It¡¯s her, it¡¯s her. She was the one with Fredst night. I remember it clearly.¡±
¡°Oh my God¡¡± Cathy was stunned, covering her mouth. ¡°How could it be Miss Nelson?¡±
Tears welled up in her eyes as she turned to Kristopher. ¡°Kristopher, I was just trying to help identify the deceased and notify their families. I didn¡¯t expect it would lead us to Miss Nelson. We¡¡±
Cathy sniffed and continued, ¡°Should we go to the funeral home to see Miss Nelson and inform her family while we¡¯re there? Even if what she did is disgraceful, the dead deserve our respect first. We should let her family know.¡±
Kristopher didn¡¯t immediately respond to Cathy¡¯s question; instead, he leisurely finished his coffee. After setting his empty cup down, he looked at the woman in front of him. ¡°So, you¡¯ve concluded that Belinda diedst night based solely on the word of this so-called university student?¡± The atmosphere suddenly grew tense.
Caught off guard by Kristopher¡¯s question, Cathy was visibly startled and instinctively nced at Jessa. It took her a moment topose herself. ¡°I¡ I was just guessing¡ After all¡¡± She gestured towards the man next to Jessa. ¡°He mentioned he recognized Miss Nelson, so¡¡±
Kristopher casually raised his eyes to the man beside Jessa. ¡°Are you a student at Nawrin University?¡±
His piercing gaze made the man shrink back slightly before he nodded. ¡°Yes¡ I am a student at Nawrin University¡¡±
Kristopher¡¯s fingers tapped lightly on the table. ¡°Student ID.¡±
The man appeared ready for this. As soon as Kristopher requested it, he swiftly pulled out an ID card from his pocket and set it on the table. ¡°Here.¡±
The man reclining in his chair picked up the student ID and looked it over. ¡°Major in Economics.¡±
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He scoffed coldly as he set down the ID, fixing the man with a frosty stare. ¡°You, an economics student, im to be ssmates with Fred from the Physical Education Department?¡±
The young man¡¯s smile stiffened. He stuttered, struggling to find a reply, then turned to Jessa and whispered, ¡°Jessa¡ What should I say¡?¡± His nervousness made him speak louder than intended, and his voice carried clearly to everyone nearby. Cathy¡¯s face turned pale instantly.
Jessa¡¯s face contorted with anger as she sharply reprimanded the man. ¡°Why are you asking me!? You¡¯ve just been exposed by Mr. Cox for pretending to be someone you¡¯re not, and I haven¡¯t even confronted you for lying to me, yet you have the nerve to ask me what to say?¡± While speaking, Jessa kept a cautious eye on Kristopher¡¯s reactions from the corner of her eye.
¡°Enough.¡± Checktest chapters at F¦ÉndNovel
Kristopher had seen enough of the theatrics and wanted no more of it. He stood up elegantly, adjusting his cuffs. ¡°Cathy, the next time your acting coach organizes an improvement course, take Jessa and this¡ actor. All of you should attend some training; your acting skills need serious work.¡±
With that, he strode out of the cafe with determined steps. Cathy¡¯s face turned pale! It was the first time in four years that Kristopher had spoken to her with such cold detachment, signaling his deep disappointment.
This realization made Cathy bite her lip hard. She turned to Jessa with a fierce look and muttered under her breath, ¡°Useless!¡± They hadn¡¯t even smoothed out the detail that Fred was from the Physical Education Department! The actor she had hired was skinny and didn¡¯t look the part of an athlete at all!
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Chapter 306
?Chapter 306:
With frustration brewing, she red at Jessa again and med her. ¡°We¡¯ll settle this when I get back!¡±
After venting, Cathy took a deep breath, braced herself, and hurried after Kristopher, who was already making his way downstairs. ¡°Kristopher, wait for me¡ Let me exin¡¡±
Jessa stood frozen, watching Cathy and Kristopher disappear, until the actor beside her reminded her he was owed a payment. That jolted her back to reality.
¡°What money? You messed up everything, and it¡¯s lucky for you that I¡¯m not demandingpensation, and yet you have the nerve to ask for payment? Get out of here!¡±
¡°Kristopher¡¡± Cathy called hesitantly as they left the caf¨¦, trailing behind him to the car.
Once seated in the back, she furrowed her brow in confusion. ¡°Kristopher, why are we in this car today? Where¡¯s your ck Maserati?¡±
At first, Kristopher seemed unwilling to engage in conversation. However, her mention of the car caught his attention, and he shot her a sharp nce. ¡°It¡¯s being repaired after an ident,¡± he replied coolly.
Unaware of the seriousness of his statement, Cathy thought she had steered the conversation. shing a hopeful smile, she leaned in closer. ¡°When did the ident happen? Why didn¡¯t you tell me about it?¡±
Kristopher, with his expression unchanged, pointed to the bandage on his head. ¡°It happenedst night.¡±
Cathy¡¯s eyes widened in rm as she stared at him. ¡°Oh no, how did it happen?¡±
Tentatively, she reached out toward the bandage, her voiceced with concern. ¡°You should have told mest night.¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t have time,¡± Kristopher cut her off, his tone cold. ¡°Since you¡¯re so concerned about the ident, do you happen to know what make the other car wasst night?¡±
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Caught off guard, Cathy faltered. She had only feigned interest in the ident. How could she possibly know what car Fred and Belinda had been driving?
Despite herck of knowledge, she pursed her lips, pretending to search her memory for any online news.
After a moment, she forced a smile. ¡°It was a ck car, I think.¡± She vaguely recalled the rumors she had heard online.
Kristopher gave her a mocking nce.
Was it his excessive trust that made her think he was naive? This text is hosted at F?nd-Novel
Cathy clearly saw the sarcasm in his eyes.
She bit her lip and reached out to sp his arm. ¡°Kristopher, I¡¯m sorry.¡±
He raised an eyebrow, his gaze probing. ¡°Sorry for what?¡±
¡°I shouldn¡¯t have¡ I shouldn¡¯t have lied to you.¡±
Tears began to fill her eyes. ¡°Actually¡ I knew about it. Someone mentioned that Miss Nelson and Fred were involved. But¡¡±
Tears rolled down her cheeks as she continued, ¡°Miss Nelson was once your wife, Kristopher. You were married for three years¡ I feared it would hurt you to learn she was seeing a younger man, so¡¡±
With sincerity in her tear-filled eyes, she faced Kristopher. ¡°I confess, it was all my doing. I arranged for us to go to Nawrin University, for Jessa to bring that actor¡ I didn¡¯t want to tell you the truth directly, but I hoped you would see for yourself that it was Fred and Belinda¡¡±
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Chapter 307
?Chapter 307:
She wiped away her tears and continued, ¡°I made a fool of myself. Thinking about it now, I really shouldn¡¯t have acted that way. You¡¯ve always been perceptive, and I can¡¯t keep secrets from you¡ I just wanted you to know, but¡ I ended up making a joke of it.¡±
As Kristopher saw her tears, he felt a twinge of sympathy. However, his sympathy soon gave way to curiosity. He furrowed his brow and asked, ¡°Then exin to me, Cathy. How did you figure out it was Belinda and Fredst night?¡±
The night before, when the police arrived at the scene, he and Belinda had already slipped away.
No one had captured their images, and ostensibly, no one knew their identities.
Furthermore, if there had indeed been a witness, they should have recognized him and Belinda.
Only the mysterious men in ck who had chased them might have mistaken him for Fred.
Cathy hesitated briefly, then looked up at him with a sly smile and admitted, ¡°I heard it from Jessa.¡±
As she spoke, she yfully took his arm. ¡°You know how it is, Kristopher. I¡¯m always buried in work and scripts. I hardly keep up with the news. Jessa mentioned that Miss Nelson and Fred were possibly the victimsst night. It shocked me, and I was worried about how you¡¯d handle the news, so¡¡±
She averted her gaze, her voice tinged with guilt and sorrow. ¡°Kristopher, I realize now that I was wrong. I should have just been upfront with you from the start¡¡±
As Kristopher listened, he sighed deeply, his frown deepening as he processed her words.
Belinda rushed into Wildfield Design Studio, breathless.
As soon as she entered the office, she knocked excitedly on Rnd¡¯s door, holding her design drafts. ¡°I¡¯m all set, Mr. Moreno. Are we heading to the meeting now?¡±
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It had been a long trip from Kristopher¡¯s Riviera Vis to the studio. She had repeatedly urged the taxi driver to hurry, even paying twice the fare to ensure she wasn¡¯tte.
Today marked her first meeting with the top executives of a partnerpany, and she was determined not to let personal issues interfere with the potential coboration. Read full story at F?ndNovel
After all, time was not on her side, and failing this partnership could mean losing the chance to secure another in time.
But she was met with an unexpected look of surprise from Rnd.
¡°Didn¡¯t Darren tell you? Today¡¯s meeting was called off.¡±
Belinda¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°The meeting was canceled?¡±
Rnd sighed deeply. ¡°Yes, the senior management had personal issues to attend to, so we¡¯ve postponed the meeting. We¡¯ll schedule the next one as soon as they¡¯re avable.¡±
The excitement in Belinda¡¯s heart sank.
She had been tirelessly working these past few days, diligently adjusting the proposal to meet the other party¡¯s demands, hoping to leave a strong impression during her meeting with the senior executives to pave the way for future coborations. She hadn¡¯t anticipated the meeting being called off so abruptly.
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Chapter 308
?Chapter 308:
¡°Belinda.¡±
Noticing the disappointment etched across Belinda¡¯s face, Rnd let out a sigh and offered some constion. ¡°In our business, cancetions are pretty normal.¡±
Belinda pressed her lips together and nodded. ¡°I understand.¡± Despite understanding the nature of her work, the sudden letdown was hard to ept.
¡°How about this,¡± Rnd gently patted her shoulder and said. ¡°Since there¡¯s no meeting, why not take the day to rx, rest up, and clear your head?¡±
Belinda nodded and left the office, feeling dejected.
Once outside the studio, a call from Darren finally came through, confirming the meeting¡¯s cancetion.
She helplessly exchanged a few words with him.
Right after hanging up, her phone rang again.
It was from a phone shop in the old town district.
Her phone had been damaged by Cathy previously and had been left at the shop for repairs.
The call was simply to inform her that her phone was ready and that she could pick it up at her convenience.
With nothing else nned, Belinda quickly went downstairs to hail a taxi to the old town area.
Half an hourter, as she stepped out of the taxi, she noticed a familiar car parked across the street.
The car door swung open, and a woman in a sleek ck business suit quickly stepped out and strode into an alley.
Belinda recognized her instantly.
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It was Jessa, Cathy¡¯s agent.
Belinda frowned.
The mobile city in the old town was known for dealing with old electronics, both selling and repairing them. What business did Jessa have in such a ce?
Nevertheless, Belinda had no real connection to Jessa and preferred not to waste her energy pondering her actions.
She shifted her attention away and continued toward the phone repair shop.
Unexpectedly, she encountered Jessa again right at the entrance of the shop.
Jessa was handing over a phone to the shop owner, her tone detached, saying, ¡°Can you check if you have a charger for this model?¡±
The shop owner took the phone, nced at it, and began searching for a charger. He chuckled, ¡°Why has this phone model from five years ago suddenly be popr again? Just a few days ago, I fixed another one just like it.¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? F?nd-Novel
Belinda¡¯s curiosity was piqued by the owner¡¯sment. She instinctively nced at the phone in Jessa¡¯s hand.
Upon seeing it, her eyes widened in shock.
This phone¡ It was identical to the one Joyce had used five years ago! Even the shy diamond sticker on the side was the same!
Belinda had personally ced that sticker on Joyce¡¯s phone five years earlier!
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Chapter 309
?Chapter 309:
Realizing the implications, she surged forward in a burst of excitement, grabbing Jessa¡¯s wrist. ¡°Where did you get this phone!?¡±
Jessa jumped when Belinda appeared out of nowhere.
As she turned around and saw Belinda, her shock intensified, her eyes widening. ¡°Belinda, aren¡¯t you supposed to be dead¡¡± How was she here, alive?
Hadn¡¯t Belinda perished in the car crash justst night?
Unbothered by being called a ¡°dead person,¡± Belinda didn¡¯t hesitate.
She grabbed the phone right out of Jessa¡¯s hands.
As she held the device, her surprise grew with each passing second.
This phone¡ It bore a striking resemnce to Joyce¡¯s ¡ª same model, same color. Even the diamond sticker on its side and the small nick from a past fall matched perfectly!
Without thinking, she pressed the power button.
Unfortunately, the phone was dead, unresponsive no matter how hard she pressed.
After a moment, Belinda looked up at Jessa with a sniff. ¡°Where did you get this phone?¡±
Jolted back to reality by the question, Jessa¡¯s initial shock faded. She lunged forward, trying to reim her phone. ¡°What do you mean by that? It¡¯s mine! Give it back!¡±
How could Belinda just snatch the phone away so easily? She held it close to her chest, fending off Jessa¡¯s attempts with her arms.
¡°Yours? This phone is my friend¡¯s!¡±
Belinda fixed Jessa with a stern look. ¡°She¡¯s been overseas for four years. How did you get her phone?¡±
??????????? ??????????????? ?????????¦Í?????????????
At the mention of Belinda¡¯s friend, Jessa¡¯splexion drained.
Jessa had already upset Cathy by messing up at the caf¨¦, revealing the hired actor to Kristopher.
Desperate to make amends, she remembered Cathy¡¯s request from the previous night to find a new charger for the phone and had rushed over.
Running into Belinda was bad enough, but Belinda recognizing the phone as Joyce¡¯s right off the bat was worse.
If Belinda took the phone today¡
How would she ever exin it to Cathy?
With this thought, Jessa clenched her teeth and red at Belinda. ¡°How can you be so sure this phone is your friend¡¯s? I bought it myself five years ago!¡±
She continued to wrestle the phone back, teeth gritted. ¡°Belinda, hand over the phone now, or I¡¯ll call the police!¡±
Belinda scoffed. ¡°Call the police? Go ahead, call them! You¡¯ll have to exin to both me and the police exactly where you got this phone from!¡± Discover more novels at find?novel
When Jessa heard that, panic gripped her. She couldn¡¯t let this situation escte!
If it became a bigger issue and Cathy got involved¡
Belinda would surely discover Cathy¡¯s connection to Joyce.
The potential fallout was too terrible to contemte.
Yet, if Jessa didn¡¯t call the police, Belinda was adamant about not returning her phone.
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Chapter 310
?Chapter 310:
Belinda caught every shift in Jessa¡¯s expression, which only convinced her further that the phone truly belonged to Joyce.
The thought of Joyce filled Belinda with deep sadness.
Four years had passed without any word from her.
Belinda had dreamt countless times of their reunion.
However, she hadn¡¯t imagined that she would stumble upon Joyce¡¯s phone before seeing Joyce herself.
With a trembling lip and holding back tears, Belinda fixed her gaze on Jessa. ¡°Tell me, where did this phonee from? Where is its owner? I need to see her!¡±
The sudden appearance of Joyce¡¯s phone sparked a hope in Belinda. Could it be that Joyce had been brought back to the country by her family?
Jessa¡¯splexion drained of all color, leaving her face ghostly white. She took a deep breath before speaking. ¡°Miss Nelson, I have no idea what you¡¯re referring to. This is my phone.¡±
Belinda¡¯s eyes narrowed as she fixed Jessa with a hard stare. ¡°You¡¯re still lying at this point!¡±
She jabbed a finger at the phone, pointing to the diamond sticker. ¡°I put this here myself five years ago!¡±
Then she gestured to a small nick on the upper right corner. ¡°This damage happened when I was fooling around with the owner of this phone!¡±
Her tone turned icy. ¡°So, what makes you think this phone is yours?¡±
Jessa¡¯s brow furrowed, and she opened her mouth to respond but froze when her eyesnded on another phone beside the shop owner, clearlybeled with Belinda¡¯s name.
In that moment, Jessa suddenly realized why Belinda was there. Cathy had recently water-damaged Belinda¡¯s phone, and she probably came to collect the repaired device.
??????????? ??????????????? ¨À??????¦Í??????©q?????
Armed with this realization, Jessa was struck with an idea.
Swiftly, she pulled out her phone, typed a quick message, and edged toward the counter.
Without hesitation, she spun around, grabbed the phone next to the shop owner, and clutched it firmly.
¡°Belinda, you stole my phone, now I¡¯m taking yours!¡±
Belinda looked shaken, but her resolve didn¡¯t waver. ¡°Do you really think this stunt will make me give it back?¡±
The phone Jessa clutched was not just any phone. It held significant sentimental value, which was why Belinda had bothered to get it fixed. However¡
The phone was not just a device to Belinda. It was a cherished gift from Joyce.
And now, the phone in her hands was actually Joyce¡¯s.
There was no way Belinda could part with this phone, nor could she consider swapping it with Jessa.
Seemingly expecting Belinda¡¯s reluctance, Jessa scoffed. ¡°Don¡¯t think¡¡±
¡°I¡¯m asking for the phone back. Because I¡¡±
Her eyes narrowed ominously. ¡°Am going to steal it!¡± Readplete version only at F¦Énd£Îovel
As she dered her intention, the light at the entrance of the cramped repair shop dimmed abruptly.
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Chapter 311
?Chapter 311:
Belinda frowned, her gaze instinctively shifting toward the entrance. Several men dressed in ck crowded in, their presence overwhelming the small space.
They wore the same outfits as the men who had pursued Fred at Nawrin University the night before.
A wave of realization crashed over Belinda, and she grasped the full extent of Jessa¡¯s n.
Gripping the phone tightly, she instinctively retreated. ¡°You¡¡±
Jessa¡¯s voice turned icy as she issued hermand, ¡°What are you waiting for? Take it from her!¡±
Her tone was harsh and authoritative. ¡°Don¡¯t hold back. Just don¡¯t kill her. Miss Miller will have our backs! Remember, many of your friends sufferedst night because of her!¡±
As Jessa spoke, the men in ck stormed into the repair shop. The timid owner, ovee with fear, scurried into the back room and locked the door.
Belinda watched as the burly men advanced toward her, her legs trembling uncontrobly. Content originallyes from find(?)ovel
Despite her fear, she gripped her phone tightly, her feet instinctively backing away. ¡°You¡ Stay back!¡± she cried out, her voice filled with panic.
In that moment, she understood that her efforts to resist were futile. Yet, in a desperate move, she secretly slid her hand into her pocket and clutched the phone tightly. ¡°She¡¯s calling the cops!¡±
Jessa, observant and quick, spotted Belinda¡¯s subtle move and shouted a warning.
No sooner had Jessa¡¯s warning echoed in the air than one of the men kicked Belinda, sending her crashing against the wall with brutal force. The collision with the cold, hard wall drained the color from Belinda¡¯s face, leaving her in agony.
The men in ck quickly surrounded her, kicking and hitting her as they forcefully pried her fingers open to seize the phone.
?????????? §ã?????????????? ????????????????[©q]?????
¡°No¡¡± Belinda groaned, enduring the overwhelming pain. She struggled to rise and reim her phone but was met with relentless, harsh blows.
Finally, Jessa, holding the two identical phones, approached the beaten woman. She crouched down mockingly and stared into Belinda¡¯s bloodied face. ¡°Trying to outsmart me? You should have known better. Now, I¡¯m taking both phones,¡± she taunted.
Jessa and her team of men in ck left in triumph.
Belinda remained on the floor, her body marked by bruises, watching them fade into the distance as a sense of despair settled in her heart.
Suddenly, her phone began to ring.
Exhausted, shecked the strength to rise, so she dragged herself across the floor, struggling to reach her phone after what felt like an eternity.
It was Kristopher on the other end.
As Belinda caught sight of the familiar name on the screen, her heart momentarily leapt, despite the pain racking her body.
She swiftly answered the call, clinging to it as if it were her only hope. ¡°Kristopher, I¡ª¡±
¡°Belinda,¡± Kristopher¡¯s voice interrupted, cold and detached, not acknowledging the pain and frailty in her tone. ¡°The rumors about Cathy that Fred sparkedst night are swirling online again. Was that your doing?¡±
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Chapter 312
?Chapter 312:
Belinda paused, a bitter smile curling her lips.
She had just been mercilessly beaten by Cathy¡¯s agent.
Now, Kristopher was using her of scheming against his beloved Cathy.
A cynical smile flickered across her face.
She had been foolish to expect concern from Kristopher, especially after their divorce.
Noticing her silence, Kristopher frowned, ncing worriedly at Cathy, whoy pale and unconscious in a hospital bed, surrounded by doctors trying to revive her. His voice carried a tinge of annoyance. ¡°Do you have a moment? I may need your help to rify some things about Cathy.¡±
Belinda rolled over, pressing her back against the cold floor, and stared up at the ceiling of the repair shop. ¡°rify what? Was anything Fred said even remotely untruthful? Miss Miller hiring online trolls to attack me, exposing my personal details, and cyberbullying me ¡ª aren¡¯t those facts? What do you expect me to rify now? That she wasn¡¯t really behind the cyberbullying, or that I somehow orchestrated those insults against myself?¡± Her voice was hoarse and subdued.
At that moment, Kristopher realized something was off with her tone.
His brow furrowed in concern.
¡°Where are you?¡±
¡°You don¡¯t need to know that,¡± she responded icily, then took a deep breath and ended the call.
She barely had time to set the phone aside before it started ringing again.
It was Kristopher calling back.
With a weary sigh, she blocked his number.
???????????? §ã???¦Ñ???????? ????????????????????????
¡°Miss.¡±
The repair shop owner, who had been hiding, now emerged guiltily from behind the door, eyeing the wounded Belinda on the floor. ¡°Should I call an ambnce for you?¡±
Belinda nodded. ¡°First, call the police,¡± she instructed firmly, resolved not to let Jessa get away with attacking her in broad daylight.
The owner hesitated for a moment, then exhaled in relief. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll call them right now.¡± Latest content published on FindN()vel
He then gestured upwards. ¡°There are surveince cameras in my shop.¡±
Belinda mustered a forced smile. ¡°I know.¡±
She had spotted the surveince camera right from the start. That was the reason she had intentionally moved toward the corner of the room when those men in ck appeared.
She wanted to ensure they were within the camera¡¯s field of view.
Shortly thereafter, the police showed up, followed by an ambnce. As paramedics loaded Belinda into the ambnce, the police coborated with the repair shop owner to secure the surveince footage.
¡°How did you end up like this?¡± Marlene asked as he examined Belinda¡¯s wounds at Peace Hospital, his brow furrowed. ¡°You¡¯re already in a frail state. How did you find yourself in a scuffle?¡±
A bitter smile crossed Belinda¡¯s lips.
What scuffle?
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Chapter 313
?Chapter 313:
She had merely been on the receiving end of a beating.
Silent, Belinda watched as Marlene sighed and continued his examination, murmuring, ¡°It¡¯s fortunate you didn¡¯t sustain fatal injuries. Otherwise, we might be sending your remains to your family today!¡±
¡°They wouldn¡¯te for me,¡± Belinda replied with a self-deprecatingugh.
To the Nelson family, whether she lived or died was irrelevant. Marlene, irritated by her pessimism, couldn¡¯t hold back. ¡°Don¡¯t speak so negatively all the time. Your family¡¡±
He was cut off by the ringing of Belinda¡¯s phone on the side table.
Her frown quickly disappeared as she saw the caller ID.
¡°See, your family does care,¡± Marlene remarked as he handed her the phone. ¡°It¡¯s your father calling!¡±
Belinda stared at the disy showing ¡°Dad,¡± momentarily taken aback. Why would Donovan be calling now?
Belinda frowned as she took the phone from Marlene and answered, ¡°Hello.¡±
¡°Hello, Belinda.¡± Donovan¡¯s voice came through, dripping with insincerity. ¡°Yesterday was Gillian¡¯s birthday. She took the day off. She nned to travel abroad but canceled her trip after hearing about your divorce from Mr. Cox. She was worried you might be upset, so she decided toe to Nawrin to keep youpany.¡±
Belinda couldn¡¯t help but sneer. She vividly remembered receiving a message from Gillian, plotting to advance on her former brother-inw, Kristopher. It was clear to her that Gillian¡¯s trip to Nawrin wasn¡¯t aboutfort¡ªit was about Kristopher.
¡°She¡¯s on her way now and will be in Nawrin in about three hours. I¡¯ll send you the flight details. Make sure you pick her up,¡± Donovan continued. ¡°Gillian isn¡¯t used to hardship. I¡¯m concerned she might fall ill from difort in Nawrin. Book a five-star hotel for her. We don¡¯t trust any other kind.¡±
Belinda sneered again at Donovan¡¯s overbearing tone. ¡°If you¡¯re so worried about Gillian, why don¡¯t youe with her? Or you could book the five-star hotel yourself.¡±
??¦Á???????? §ã????¦Ñ???????? ??¦Á??????¦Í??????©q?????
Belinda and Gillian, though called sisters, had met only a few times over the years, their rtionship barely warmer than that of strangers. Why should Belinda exert herself for a so-called sister who wasn¡¯t even rted by blood? Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n find¡¤novel
¡°What are you talking about?¡± Donovan¡¯s voice hardened. ¡°Gillian is your sister. It¡¯s only natural for you to look after her. Besides, you¡¯ve lost to Cathy and were left by Kristopher. Gillian is concerned for you as a sister and wants tofort you. Isn¡¯t it your duty to take care of her? Don¡¯t be so thoughtless.¡±
Belinda scoffed. ¡°Is sheing tofort me, or is sheing to gloat and chase after Kristopher?¡±
Donovan¡¯s tone grew even colder. ¡°Gillian brought your favorite dessert. Is that really how you think of her? How ungrateful! I am ashamed to call you my daughter.¡±
¡°Then you can pretend you don¡¯t have me as a daughter.¡± Belinda¡¯s voice was cold as she closed her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not feeling well now. I don¡¯t want to argue,¡± she continued. ¡°It¡¯s none of my business if Gillian wants toe to Nawrin, but I won¡¯t be seeing her, picking her up, or arranging a five-star hotel for her. If you¡¯re so concerned,e and take care of her yourself.¡±
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Chapter 314
?Chapter 314:
Belinda hung up the phone, cutting off Donovan¡¯s angry, hoarse protests.
Marlene, who had witnessed the conversation, was taken aback. ¡°Is this really your family?¡±
She knew Belinda¡¯s health was poor, yet her family seemed indifferent, now demanding that she care for her sister amidst her own suffering.
¡°I¡¯m his own daughter.¡± Belinda gave a wry smile and looked up at Marlene. ¡°That¡¯s why I said that even if I died, they wouldn¡¯t bother to im my body.¡±
Marlene sighed and offered a gentle pat on Belinda¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t lose hope. You may not die. Miss Scott has managed to assemble a team of the world¡¯s top experts in stomach cancer. They¡¯ll being to Nawrin soon for a medical consultation. You might be cured soon.¡±
Belinda smiled faintly. ¡°I hope so.¡±
When Marlene mentioned Miss Scott, Belinda¡¯s curiosity was piqued. Miss Scott¡¯s boyfriend must hold a significant position to arrange for a team of the world¡¯s leading stomach cancer specialists toe to Nawrin and treat Miss Scott personally. His influence seemed to rival that of Kristopher.
Yet, Belinda wondered if she was simply out of the loop. She hadn¡¯t heard of anyone in Nawrin with influenceparable to Kristopher¡¯s. This thought made her look up at Marlene with intrigue. ¡°What¡¯s the status of Miss Scott¡¯s boyfriend?¡±
Marlene found herself momentarily at a loss, unsure how to address Belinda¡¯s probing question.
Though Belinda¡¯s entanglements with Cathy and Kristopher had been somewhat unclear before, recent online buzz had shed light on the situation.
Marlene felt a deep sympathy for Belinda and recognized the inherent injustice. However, prioritizing Belinda¡¯s well-being, she was reluctant to divulge the whole truth.
She knew that with Belinda¡¯s steadfast character, discovering that Cathy and Kristopher funded her treatment could lead her to refuse further care immediately.
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Belinda, sensing Marlene¡¯s hesitation, gave a gentle smile. ¡°I apologize if I spoke out of turn.¡±
Marlene returned the smile awkwardly.
After a brief pause, as if reaching a decision, Marlene said, ¡°If you¡¯re truly curious about Miss Scott and her boyfriend¡ once your health is restored, I¡¯ll arrange for you to meet them.¡±
Belinda nodded, smiling, and cooperated with Marlene through a series of examinations.
Finally, after confirming that Belinda¡¯s injuries were superficial, Marlene left with a sense of relief.
As the door of the ward closed, Belinday on the hospital bed and pulled out her phone.
Just as Kristopher had warned, someone had reposted the evidence showing Cathy had framed her, which Fred had deleted yesterday.
The inte was aze with condemnation of Cathy,beling her as unreasonable. Despite having Kristopher, she seemingly sought to ruin an ordinary person like Belinda. Some users even unearthed incidents from Cathy¡¯s high school days, painting her as a habitual bully.
The public¡¯s outrage spiraled, expanding from Cathy¡¯s personal vendettas to her professional shorings.
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Chapter 315
?Chapter 315:
Criticism of Cathy¡¯s poor acting skills, lip-syncing during performances, stic surgery rumors, and allegations of climbing over her former friends during her three years abroad to bully neers flooded the trending topics.
Watching the news spread like wildfire, Belinda raised an eyebrow.
No wonder Kristopher wanted her to clear things up!
The pressure from the online bacsh must have be too overwhelming for Kristopher to manage alone.
At that moment, Madisyn¡¯s call interrupted her thoughts. ¡°Belinda!¡±
Madisyn¡¯s excitement was palpable. ¡°Have you seen the news online? Karrna¡¯s real! Cathy thought she could manipte public opinion to destroy you, but it backfired spectacrly! Now her reputation is in shambles! She was really shooting herself in the foot!¡±
Belinda furrowed her brows. ¡°Madisyn, besides me, who else has Cathy wronged?¡±
Although she was pleased to see Cathy facing bacsh, she knew the scale of this public outcry couldn¡¯t have emerged from mere public sentiment alone.
Madisyn coughed lightly on the other end, her guilt evident. ¡°Well, Cathy¡¯s personality would naturally ruffle a few feathers, wouldn¡¯t it? She¡¡±
¡°Madisyn.¡±
Belinda¡¯s tone sharpened. ¡°Manipting public opinion like this, how much money did you spend?¡±
She knew Madisyn too well. Whenever Madisyn lied, her voice always faltered.
¡°I can¡¯t hide anything from you.¡±
After a long pause, Madisyn sighed. ¡°I couldn¡¯t stand seeing Cathy hurt you, so I chipped in over a hundred thousand to sway public opinion¡¡±
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¡°Madisyn.¡±
Belinda¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°If it was only a hundred thousand, Kristopher¡¯s team could easily quash thosements.¡±
Her voice grew serious. ¡°Tell me the truth, how much did you spend?¡±
¡°It was just over a hundred thousand.¡± Chapters first released on F?ndNovel
Madisyn sounded anxious. ¡°But my hundred thousand was just a drop in the bucket. Most of the funds came from Allen and some mysterious benefactor behind him!¡±
Belinda¡¯s hand holding the phone paused. ¡°Allen was involved?¡±
¡°He was.¡±
Madisyn hesitated. ¡°But Allen¡¯s just the executor. The real financier is the mysterious man behind him. I tried asking who it was, but he wouldn¡¯t say. Maybe it¡¯s some wealthy admirer from the upper echelons of Nawrin.¡±
Madisyn¡¯s words sent Belinda¡¯s mind into a whirlwind.
This mysterious benefactor¡
It probably wasn¡¯t a secret admirer.
But¡
¡°Mr. Cox.¡±
Meanwhile, in a corridor of a hospital in Nawrin, Marc handed Kristopher a document. ¡°Everything¡¯s been traced. Allen orchestrated the smear campaign, but before he manipted public opinion, he received two significant transfers. One was for one hundred and fifty thousand, from Madisyn. The other was a muchrger sum¡¡± Marc paused. ¡°It was transferred by your grandfather.¡±
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Chapter 316
?Chapter 316: Chapters first released on find{n}ovel
Kristopher frowned as he coldly reviewed the figures in the document he held.
Anthony¡¯s willingness to go to such lengths for Belinda¡¯s sake was astonishing.
It was clear why he hadn¡¯t been able to resolve this issue on his own.
¡°Get the car ready. Drive me to Grandpa¡¯s manor.¡±
Taking a deep breath, Kristopher closed the document and instructed, ¡°Belinda has cut me off. Reach out to her and tell her toe as well.
She was at the start of the entire matter. Now that Anthony has nned everything for Belinda, letting her return with him is the only way to resolve it.¡±
Marc nodded, taking the document from Kristopher. ¡°Understood, I¡¯ll let her know immediately.¡±
After speaking, Marc nced toward Cathy, who was receiving an IV drip in a distant ward. ¡°Miss Miller¡ Should shee with us?¡±
Just as Kristopher was about to respond, the elevator at the end of the hall opened.
¡°Cathy!¡±
A woman with disheveled hair burst from the elevator and hurried towards Cathy¡¯s ward.
Recognizing her as Jessa, Kristopher didn¡¯t interfere.
¡°Everything¡¯s here.¡±
Jessa approached Cathy¡¯s bedside, hastily handed over her handbag, and then broke down crying.
¡°Help me, Cathy! I didn¡¯t know she would call the police! If our men hadn¡¯t used their car to protect me and asked me to cross the alley to get here, I¡¯d be under arrest and couldn¡¯t have brought these to you.¡±
She fell to her knees, grasping Cathy¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯re the only one who can save me. Ask Kristopher to get me out. He cares so much about you, and he¡¯ll surely help! If he steps in, that woman will surely drop herwsuit!¡±
As she spoke, her sobs grew, her tears smearing her makeup. ¡°Cathy, please help me! I can¡¯t go to prison!¡±
L?????????? §ã????????????? ??¦Á?n??¦Í??????£®?????
Clutching the bag Jessa had given her, Cathy quickly hid it under her pillow and nced towards Kristopher. In a hushed tone, she said, ¡°Stop it. Kristopher is here.¡±
Jessa, on her knees and grasping the corner of the quilt, froze for a moment. Instinctively, she followed Cathy¡¯s gaze.
The tall man stood there with his arms crossed, looking down at her.
¡°Since you need my help, why don¡¯t you tell me what¡¯s going on?¡±
Jessa¡¯s face instantly turned pale. ¡°I¡ I¡¡±
¡°Kristopher.¡±
Cathy coughed and exined in a gentle voice, ¡°Jessa probably heard I had a rpse and thought it was because she had upset me before by hiring an actor to deceive you, so she panicked.¡±
After exining, Cathy pretended to be generous. As she patted Jessa¡¯s head, she said with a sigh, ¡°Jessa, I appreciate your concern. But there¡¯s no need to worry so much. I¡¯ve already cleared things up with Kristopher about the past. He doesn¡¯t hold a grudge.¡±
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Chapter 317
?Chapter 317:
She then smiled warmly at Jessa. ¡°We¡¯re not going to call the police or have you locked up.¡±
Looking at her smile, Jessa finally calmed down and breathed a long sigh of relief.
¡°Thank you, Cathy.¡±
Jessa wiped away her tears and said, ¡°I knew you wouldn¡¯t me me.¡± After saying that, she looked apologetically at Kristopher and said, ¡°Mr. Cox, I hired an actor to trick you¡ I apologize! I realize I was wrong. I¡¯m truly sorry!¡±
Kristopher merely squinted at her, saying nothing.
Seeing no response from Kristopher, Jessa turned back to Cathy and said, ¡°Cathy, I was¡ just terrified to hear you were back in the hospital. I¡¯d feel terrible if it was my fault¡¡±
¡°It has nothing to do with you being in the hospital.¡±
Cathy sighed again and rified, ¡°Miss Nelson misunderstood, thinking I had orchestrated those online trolls as revenge. Honestly, I don¡¯t care about the nasty things she said about me¡¡±
She nced toward Kristopher instinctively and continued, ¡°But those people she hired went on to say Kristopher cheated on her and called him terrible names¡¡±
Cathy wiped her tears as she said, ¡°I just felt so upset and frustrated hearing them nder Kristopher like that¡¡±
¡°Mr. Cox.¡±
In the corridor, Marc had taken care of all the arrangements. As soon as he stepped into the ward, he found Cathy and Jessa¡ªone leaning against the head of the bed in tears, and the other kneeling on the floor, also crying.
Marc was taken aback and nced at Kristopher in confusion. ¡°This¡?¡±
Kristopher, who had been leaning against the doorway, shifted his gaze from Cathy and turned to Marc. ¡°Did you manage to make all the contacts?¡±
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¡°Yes,¡± Marc replied earnestly. ¡°Miss Nelson has already left her ce. She mentioned she was near Cox Manor and would arrive in about twenty minutes. But¡¡±
Marc hesitated before continuing, ¡°Miss Nelson made a request. She wants you to bring Miss Miller¡ªand Miss Miller¡¯s agent, Jessa¡ªalong with you.¡±
Kristopher raised his eyebrows, questioning, ¡°With Jessa?¡±
¡°Yes, Miss Nelson mentioned she has some unresolved issues with Jessa.¡±
Marc went on, ¡°I asked Miss Nelson about the nature of these personal matters. She said we¡¯d understand once we get there.¡± With that, Marc scratched his head, clearly puzzled, and nced at Jessa. ¡°I can¡¯t see much of a connection between Miss Nelson and Jessa.¡±
¡°Cathy is what links them.¡±
After uttering these words indifferently, Kristopher walked into the ward.
Kristopher¡¯s deep, cold voice cut through the women¡¯s tears. ¡°Jessa, stand up. Cathy and I have moved past our previous issues.¡± At his words, Jessa¡¯s tears stopped immediately, and she looked up at him in astonishment. ¡°Mr. Cox, thank you.¡± Her guess had been right. Kristopher deeply cared for Cathy. Despite her faults, he was willing to overlook them.
Before Jessa could hide her smile, Kristopher said indifferently, ¡°I¡¯m taking Cathy to my grandfather¡¯s ce to sort something out. You¡¯reing too.¡± The rightful source is find?novel
Jessa was stunned for a moment before responding hesitantly, ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea.¡±
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Chapter 318
?Chapter 318:
She thought that if Kristopher was bringing Cathy to meet his grandfather, it likely involved discussing their engagement.
Being just Cathy¡¯s agent, Jessa felt it was inappropriate for her to be present at such a personal asion. She believed it would be more suitable for Kristopher to bring Cathy¡¯s parents instead.
¡°You¡¯ve been specifically requested toe. Don¡¯t decline.¡± With that, Kristopher walked away.
He had mentioned that Jessa was requested but didn¡¯t specify by whom. However, Jessa assumed it was Anthony who had asked for her presence. She instinctively looked over at Cathy.
Cathy winked at Jessa and whispered, so only they could hear, ¡°Let¡¯s not worry about what¡¯s happening right now. Juste with us. No matter how influential Belinda is, she can¡¯t just bring the police to Cox Manor to arrest you.¡±
Jessa found this reasoning logical. Without further hesitation, she helped Cathy out of bed.
As Cathy stood up, Jessa moved to take the bag containing the phones, but Cathy stopped her. ¡°Leave them here for now.¡±
At the moment, Cathy wasn¡¯t sure why Kristopher was taking her to Cox Manor. It seemed risky to bring the phones along. Readplete version only at find¡¤novel
Under Marc¡¯s arrangement, the three of them left the hospital and got into the car heading for Cox Manor.
Meanwhile, at Cox Manor¡
Anthony epted a cup of warm tea from the butler and graciously offered it to the two police officers¡ªa man and a woman in in clothes¡ªwho sat in front of him. ¡°Thank you for your diligence. It¡¯s quite something that you¡¯ve made the trip out here.¡±
The officers epted the tea with smiles. ¡°It¡¯s no trouble at all. It¡¯s worthwhile as long as she shows up.¡±
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With that, the policewoman turned her attention to Belinda, who was seated in the corner, her face half-hidden by a mask and a peaked cap. ¡°Are you certain Jessa will show up here? The allegations against her now extend beyond assault and robbery; she¡¯s also implicated in a kidnapping plot fromst night.¡±
Belinda¡¯s hand froze on her teacup as a puzzled expression crossed her face. ¡°Someone reported that she was suspected of nning a kidnapping?¡±
The policewoman gave a solemn nod. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s also what urred today.¡±
Belinda felt a twinge of surprise.
When she had reported the case to the police, she had only mentioned Jessa¡¯s involvement in robbing and assaulting her earlier that day. She hadn¡¯t yet had a chance to mention the events of the previous night.
Someone had actually reportedst night¡¯s kidnapping to the police? Her brow furrowed as she pulled up Fred¡¯s number to send a text.
¡°Did you call the cops?¡±
Fred¡¯s reply came swiftly: ¡°No. I yed dead by pretending I perished in the car crash today. What¡¯s going on?¡±
Belinda¡¯s frown deepened upon reading Fred¡¯s response.
The only three people privy to the previous night¡¯s abduction were herself, Fred, and Kristopher. Since neither she nor Fred had alerted the authorities, did that mean Kristopher made the call?
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Chapter 319
?Chapter 319:
At that moment, the sound of a car pulling up outside Cox Manor reached their ears.
¡°They¡¯re here,¡± Anthony said, looking at the two police officers apologetically. ¡°Please make yourselvesfortable in the guest room. We have some family matters to attend to.¡±
The officers exchanged a nce and nodded in unison.
Stanley ushered them out of the living room towards the guest room.
As soon as the door closed behind them, the vi¡¯s gate swung open. Cathy strode in, holding Kristopher¡¯s arm, with Marc and Jessa trailing behind. The quartet entered the manor together.
¡°Mr. Anthony Cox, Miss Nelson,¡± Cathy greeted them politely.
Without so much as a nce in her direction, Anthony said coldly, ¡°Take a seat.¡±
Feeling a tinge of indignation, Cathy bit her lip and followed Kristopher to the sofa on the left side of Anthony. As she made to sit beside Kristopher, Anthony shot her an icy look.
¡°You go sit on the other side,¡± he ordered, gesturing towards a different sofa.
Cathy¡¯s lips curled in grievance as she reached for Kristopher¡¯s hand, her eyes brimming with hurt. ¡°Kristopher¡¡±
¡°What? Will you die if you don¡¯t sit next to Kristopher?¡± Anthony sneered contemptuously at her disy.
Tears welled in Cathy¡¯s eyes as she protested, ¡°Anthony, I didn¡¯t mean¡¡±
¡°If you didn¡¯t mean it, sit over there as I instructed,¡± Anthony cut her off sternly, his cold, authoritative voiceced with unyielding arrogance.
Cathy paled instantly.
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¡°Cathy, behave,¡± Kristopher soothed, rubbing his throbbing temples as he cated her softly.
¡°Okay.¡±
Hearing Kristopher¡¯s words, Cathy reluctantly took the seat Anthony had pointed to, stealing a resentful nce at Belinda.
Why was it that she couldn¡¯t even sit beside Kristopher, yet Belinda could openly sit next to Anthony?
Belinda was divorced from Kristopher and no longer part of the Cox family.
¡°You too, have a seat.¡±
After Cathy sat, Anthony poured himself some tea, ncing at Jessa indifferently. ¡°Sit next to Cathy.¡± For more chapters visit Find[?]ovel
Jessa quickly waved her hands in protest. ¡°No, no. I¡¯m fine standing.¡± As Cathy¡¯s agent, she didn¡¯t feel it was her ce to take a seat on such an asion. She was already honored by Anthony¡¯s invitation into his home.
¡°Just do as I say.¡± Anthony picked up his teacup and mmed it onto the tea table with a loud noise. ¡°What? Is no one listening to me?¡±
The forceful aura and booming voice made Jessa¡¯s legs buckle. ¡°I¡¯ll sit down.¡±
Jessa scurried to take the seat beside Cathy, prompting the polite smile to vanish from Cathy¡¯s face.
She shot Belinda another bitter look, clearly convinced Anthony¡¯s change in demeanor was due to Belinda ratting them out.
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Chapter 320
Chapter 320:
Leaning back, Kristopher¡¯s gaze fell on the steaming teacups before flicking up to meet Anthony¡¯s eyes.
¡°Grandpa, I¡¯m here to ask you to withdraw your order and stop the online attacks against Cathy.¡±
As soon as Cathy processed Kristopher¡¯s words, her eyes widened in shock.
She had initially suspected that the inte trolls were orchestrated by Belinda or her friend Madisyn. But she hadn¡¯t expected the mastermind to be Kristopher¡¯s grandfather!
Yet, upon reflection, it did make sense. After all, Belinda had a knack for charming the elders.
With this realization, Cathy adopted a sorrowful expression and said, ¡°So, Anthony, it was you who hired those trolls¡¡±
She looked up at Anthony, tears brimming in her eyes, her voice wavering as she continued, ¡°Anthony, I understand you don¡¯t approve of me and don¡¯t want me to be with Kristopher, but¡ was it necessary to go this far? I¡¯m an actress. Public perception is critical to my career. You¡¯ve not only jeopardized my future but also that of my agent, my assistant, and the hard work of many others¡¡±
Seeing her tears, Jessa quickly pulled out a tissue and handed it to her,forting her. ¡°Don¡¯t cry, Cathy. Mr. Cox probably didn¡¯t realize the full extent of the damage he was causing.¡±
As she spoke, she cast a significant nce at Belinda and added, ¡°I think he was misled. Don¡¯t hold it against him.¡±
With tears streaming down her cheeks, Cathy nodded. ¡°How could I ever use Anthony? He¡¯s the kindest man I know. It feels like he¡¯s been bewitched¡¡±
Beside Anthony, Belinda observed Cathy and Jessa through a mocking veil of indifference, her smirk hidden behind a mask.
By the time those usations hit the inte, she was already battered.
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Before Marc had reached out, she wasn¡¯t even sure if Anthony was responsible.
Yet, in just a few sentences, Jessa and Cathy could effortlessly shift all the me onto her, painting her as the viin. She could never measure up to them.
¡°Bewitched? What do you mean?¡± Anthony scoffed. ¡°I orchestrated everything. It¡¯s my doing. Don¡¯t drag Belinda into this; she kept out of it.¡±
Sometimes, he wished Belinda would confide in him and urge him to defend her.
But she remained silent.
Had Allen not visited him that morning to show him the overnight news, he would have remained oblivious.
Cathy¡¯s eyes flickered with sly satisfaction upon hearing this.
She reached for a tissue, feigning to dab at her eyes while concealing her cunning gaze. With a sob, she protested, ¡°Anthony, I never implied Miss Nelson had cast a spell on you¡ Why bring her up?¡±
¡°Exactly,¡± Jessa quickly chimed in. ¡°Mr. Cox, Cathy only suggested that someone was manipting you, but you brought up Miss Nelson¡ Did she talk to you about this? Did she tell you to use her?¡±
Anthony¡¯s frustration red up. ¡°Are you suggesting that Belinda is orchestrating all this? I was actually defending her! Are you trying to use me to tarnish her reputation?¡±
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