《Her Rebirth of Retribution》


 Chapter 1 A Horrible Death

    In the confines of the Restricted Intensive Care Unit of the Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Calista Staffordy in the ward for patients with a Level Four virus, numerous tubes sticking out of her body. The pain had tortured her so much that she no longer looked like her old self, and she was close to breathing herst. She clutched the bed sheets tightly with her w like nails as she looked straight at the woman seated in front of her.


    "Everyone else with the K virus died within a month. But you didn''t just survive. You even managed to contain your virus. What a perfect living specimen! How does it feel just living from day to day for the past three years? Not bad right?"


    Her evil words were a total contrast to her beautiful face. Others visited her because she was ill, but Quincy Stafford was here to kill her. She took out a syringe full of a clear, light-yellow liquid.


    "Oh look, here''s the antiserum that the researchers finally created yesterday! You''ve been hanging on for dear life just for this, right? They''ve grown so attached to you over the past three years, the moment the testing wasplete, the research team made sure there was one prepared for you. Once you receive this injection, you can get well! Do you want this jab? My dearest elder sister?"


    Yes! Of course, I want it! Calista thought to herself as she closed her eyes and tried to hide the despair she felt.


    Calista wanted this antiserum badly, but she knew that her sister would kill her the day the antiserum was created. She was certain of this - after I it was Quincy who gave her this virus in the first ce!


    Not only did she get this virus, also simply known as the K virus - she had lived her entire life under Quincy''s thumb. Quincy barely understood anything about medical science, and she was now a beautiful and renowned genius doctor in high demand only because she had stolen everything important from her.


    Every time she thought about how she had merely be Quincy''s steppingstone to her current sess, it nearly drove her to death. But she did not want to die - she wanted revenge! When the researchers saw her strong will to live, they said she was such an altruistic person, sacrificing herself for the rest of the world.


    She was being self-sacrificing? What nonsense!


    She clung on despite the terrible pain for the past three years, because she hoped they would be able to quickly create an antiserum. The research team finally they had a breakthrough yesterday! The antiserum was finally created, but now Quincy was wickedly teasing her with this very thing that could save her life.


    She felt her anger boiling up inside of her, and the sheer amount of hate within her weak body surprised her.


    Quincy saw that she had shut her eyes and ignored her words, so she went straight to the point.


    "My dear sister, I know you don''t want to die, and actually I''m not afraid of you returning to the medical field because nobody will believe you anymore. Tell you what, if you tell me the code to unlock the safe of your researchb, I''ll inject you with this antiserum immediately, and then send you overseas to live quietly. How about that?"


    Calista opened her eyes upon hearing these words, and with an unsteady voice, she uttered her first words, "This is the first time...I havee across...someone...so...shameless!"


    Taking away everything she had was not enough, and now before killing her, Quincy still wanted to cheat her of thest thing that made her life worthwhile! Dream on, thought Calista to herself. "You''re not going to tell me?"


    There was an evil glint in her eye as Quincy waved the syringe in her hand, and she threatened her, "What is more important to you than your own life? Didn''t you hang on just for this antiserum?" Calistaughed coldly and ignored her question.


    Seeing that this did not do the trick, Quincy decided to pull out her trump card.


    "I suppose you don''t know yet huh. Mr. Kallum is getting engaged today, and his partner is that childhood friend, Mirabelle! That despicable woman! She teamed up with me to gang up against you and did so many terrible things to you - don''t you want to live on and get back at her?"


    The words ''Mr. Kallum'' pierced deeply through Calista''s heart.


    Even though she had not heard this name in a very long time, it was still like a sharp sword that pierced easily through an old wound that refused to heal. She could tell that Quincy was filled with regret, because Quincy herself had always dreamed of marrying Kallum Fairchild, but was now beaten to it by Mirabelle Yost. She was full of regret, and she regretted it every single day.


    If she had been more alert and saw through Quincy earlier, she would not be in this terrible situation now.


    If she did not fall in love with that man and did everything in her power to keep their engagement, then she would not have been attacked time and again, suffering physical and emotional hurt and even nearly being raped!


    It was a recurring nightmare of regret, hate and finally despair. Was it wrong to love someone? Was it wrong to show kindness? How did she end up in this state?


    "Just kill me...you liar! I know...that syringe...contains poison!" Calista shouted agitatedly, as if she was possessed. She knew that she was doomed to die from the moment Quincy entered the room, because Quincy was only going to lie to her, demean her, and finally kill her.


    Upon seeing that Calista would rather die than to tell her the code, Quincy''s face darkened and her anger began to rise.


    Nothing went well for hertely - that filthy Mirabelle had stolen the love of her life, and now this useless lowlife dared to go against her?


    "Since you''d rather die, I''ll send you on your way! You think I can''t survive without you?"


    With that, she got up and marched towards Calista, raising her hand to inject Calista with the deadly syringe. The poison in the syringe would only need ten seconds to kill Calista, and it would look like she died naturally.


    Once Calista is dead, nobody in the world would be able to expose my evil deeds, thought Quincy to herself, eyes full of evil intent, not noticing the spark in the eyes of the weak woman lying on the bed.


    Suddenly, Calista bolted up from the bed and ripped out the needles from her arm that connected her to various life support machines. She grabbed Quincy''s hand with all her might and pushed the syringe the other way, piercing it right into Quincy''s arm. "No!"


    Quincy''s eyes opened wide in terror. The next thing she knew, the syringe was empty. She tried calling for help but felt her body go weak and staggered back several steps.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    She couldn''t believe it - Calista was practically breathing herst just a moment ago!


    The rm sounded as a result of her pulling all the needles out, but Calista did not care. She finally had her revenge!


    She watched as Quincy clutched her own neck and fell to the floor, her eyes wide open, the blood on her hands reflected in her terrified pupils. This was her retribution!


    An indescribable feeling of joy surged through Calista''s body, and the smile on her face grew wider and wider, and she looked more and more frightening.


    She was so grateful that Grandpa had forced her to train her body since she was young, so she was able to exert this amount of strength despite being in such a weak state. She had avenged herself!


    Now she realized that fighting back was not so hard after all.


    The room started spinning as the rm rang in her ears continuously, and Calista fell back onto the bed. She wanted someone to save her. She wanted to survive this ordeal and start her life all over again. She was determined not to be passive anymore and not to be a weakling again, but to boldly live her life and live true to herself!


    As she began to lose consciousness, she could hear people rushing into the room.


    If she survived, she would no longer be tied down by family who did not love her, she would not fall in love with the same man, and she would only love herself. As long as she could live on...

 Chapter 2 Back To When The Nightmare Happened

    Calista was awoken by the sound of thunder as shey in the annexe of the Fairchild Manor.


    It was nighttime, and the heavy rain pounded against the white bay window. A sh of lightning shone through the window, casting a bright light on her and the messy bed she was lying on.


    She could hear faintly two men talking outside. She felt feverish but still tried to get up...


    Suddenly she froze. Wait... Wasn''t she dead?


    She knew this better than anyone else - she couldn''t have survived after she pulled out the life support machines.


    Her legs had been paralyzed for the past three years too - how were they able to move now?


    Calista reached for her legs subconsciously and noticed an emerald ring on her left thumb!This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    This ring was a present from the Fairchilds upon her engagement, but it was taken away from her when she was eighteen!


    The series of shocking revtions made her start to think more clearly.


    Heavy rains, a luxurious bungalow room, waking up after being drugged, the men outside...


    Could it be that she didn''t die but somehow restarted her life? Did life get restarted on the night when the worst nightmare of her life happened?!


    Upon realizing this, her first reaction was not joy but terror.


    Because if it was really that day then...the two men talking outside were the two scoundrels who wanted to rape her!


    In her previous life, she tried to fight back despite being drugged and managed to use a cell phone to hit one of the men''s heads, but he hit her back and she fainted. Eventually she woke up from the pain of being tortured by them. Now it was happening again, but this time she regained consciousness earlier than thest time.


    Calista''s heart started pounding. If everything happened just like thest time, Quincy, together with others, was going to burst into the room to ''catch her in the act'' in a few moments.


    That was how she waspletely disgraced in her previous life and had to call off her engagement. If this was her second chance to live, she was going to save herself this time round! She must get help!


    She got up from the bed and immediately copsed - after being unable to walk for thest three years, she had somehow forgotten how to walk.


    The voices outside stopped when they heard her fall. "There''s a noiseing from the room! Is she awake?"


    Calista almost stopped breathing when she heard those familiar voices from that past nightmare. She quickly grabbed her clothes and used all her strength to get up from the floor.


    The icy raindrops sshed directly onto her through the open window as she realized there was a problem - she was on the second story.


    The annexe was very far from the main house where a family party was held there on this very night. As such, all the servants should be in the main house busy serving the guests, so even if she shouted till her voice was hoarse, she would not be heard over the heavy rain.


    The men outside had reached the door and were turning the handle!


    With no other way out, Calista did not have time to hesitate.


    She climbed up the window despite the aching all over and made the twelve-foot jump down.


    Shended and used the strength left in her to roll forward, but a sharp pain shot through her body the moment shended, as if she had broken all her bones.


    "D*mn! She''s escaped!"


    When she heard their voices, Calista made another painful somersault forward andy t under the shrubs, her body tense with fear.


    In the rain she could hear herself panting.


    One of the men stuck his head out of the window but didn''t find her and started shouting angrily at the other man, "Hurry up and find her! She can''t run far!"


    With that, they both ran towards the stairs.


    Calista was still suffering the effects of being drugged and couldn''t fight back in this situation, so her only way out was to run.


    Enduring the pain, she managed to get some clothes on before diving into the bushes again. Her strategy was to climb her way to the main house under the cover of the nts and the rain.


    The two men did not give up trying to look for her, searching high and low within thepound. There were several times when they came very close to finding her, using sticks to beat the branches and leaves, and sometimes they came so close, Calista could see their leather shoes. The more desperately they searched, the calmer Calista became.


    She didn''t have time to think about why her life hade back to this particr day. She only knew that she must not allow the same thing to happen to her a second time, even if this whole thing were but a dream!


    Through the leaves, her reddened eyes could finally see the brightly lit main house.


    My life won''t be the same as before! As long as I make it into the house, this life won''t be the same as the previous one!


    The main house spanned two square miles and looked imposing in the heavy rains.


    The party in the luxuriously decorated banquet hall had almoste to an end. There were few guests, but every single one was an important and influential person. However, the Staffords were invited to the party only because their children were betrothed to one another as babies. As such, Benedict Stafford was feeling extremely out of ce at this party and couldn''t wait to go home, but his second marriage was to an extroverted woman who could start a conversation with anybody in the world.


    The doors suddenly mmed open with a bang!


    Everyone was shocked by the sound and turned to stare at the door. Benedict shouted out in shock, "Callie?!?"


    Lightning shed and thunder boomed right behind Calista.


    Calista was covered in mud and bruises, her hair all wet and with no shoes on, looking more like a ghost than a human.


    She could make it to the door only because she had that emerald thumb ring that marked her as the future daughter-inw of the Fairchild family. In her previous life, she would never have allowed any one of the Fairchilds to see her in this terrible state, but now... Calistaughed coldly, and with a quick scan of the room, she found Quincy and narrowed her eyes. At that moment, her blood began to boil!


    Quincy was taken aback by this stare - when did this useless sister of hers have such a terrifying stare?


    Also, what were Zane and Yael doing? She had practically delivered Calista to them and they let her escape!


    She secretly made a call to Zane Xenos, then put on a surprised face and ran over to her sister.


    "Sis! I thought you were drunk and resting in the annexe! Why do you look like such a mess? Did some guy try to get unfriendly with you?"


    The words out of her mouth were nderous, and her choice of words steered the guests'' thoughts in the direction she wanted.


    The guests hadn''t even thought of that - but once Quincy put it in their heads, they couldn''t look at the situation in any other way.


    Calista''s face was unnaturally red and her clothes were a mess - it did look like she was just sexually assaulted.


    Suddenly someone let out a gasp, "Wasn''t this Mr. Kallum''s fianc¨¦e?"


    Mr. Kallum''s fianc¨¦e looked like a mess at a party in the Fairchild Manor, how unbing, thought the guests as they started murmuring among themselves about Calista.


    Seeing the shock on the guests'' faces, Quincy pretended to be anxious, and tried to exin the situation on Calista''s behalf.


    "Callie, you''re really strong right? Even the security guards aren''t your match...or was it because you were really drunk so..."


    So she wasn''t able to resist an attacker? Or so she ended up just sleeping with any random person?


    Quincy purposely trailed off at the end, leaving the crowd to their own imagination, probing Calista with their eyes.


    Hearing the voices of the crowd getting louder, Quincy made a big show of being anxious, turning red in the face and then finally shouting, "OH DEAR! Don''t be afraid, my dear sister! Mr. Fairchild will get back at whoever did this to you!"


    Calista was really impressed by her acting. Only a few words could cause such an uproar - armed with such tactics, it was no wonder she suffered so tremendously at the veryst!


    Calista finally opened her mouth to speak, her voice hoarse and a little stiff.


    "Are you saying.... you think I was molested?"


    Her clothes were a mess, but her expression remained calm, as if everything was just a misunderstanding.


    Instead, it was the younger sister crying and making a scene, but every word that came out of her mouth was nderous - and it looked like something scandalous was about to unfold...


    Calista''s response took Quincy by surprise, and she awkwardly tried to turn the situation around, "Sis! I did not mean that...Oh look you''re hurt! Why don''t you go back and have a rest? There are so many people looking at you, Mr. Fairchild would be upset if he sees you like this."

 Chapter 3 Seeing Her Enemies Again

    If the old Calista heard that she was making the Fairchilds unhappy, she would have chosen to remain silent.


    But now she knew that if she did not exin herself in front of everyone right now, who knew what terrible rumors would spread tomorrow!-


    Calista looked at the guests andughed hollowly even though she could feel her body weakening.


    "I''m upset too! The Fairchild family is having a party and yet someone is trying to murder me! I''ve just narrowly escaped death, but you''re using me of debauchery. Such care and concern you have for me, my lovely sister!"


    Quincy was unable to respond to this. The word ''murder'' sent another uproar through the guests.


    They were all people of high status and feared for their lives too. If not for the fact they trusted the Fairchilds and were bound by social rules, they would have started running in a panic by now!


    Benedict finally came back to his senses and rushed over to Calista, "What? Someone wants to kill you? Who?"


    The elegantly dresseddy beside him merely frowned while taking a step forward and smiled, "Benedict, don''t listen to Callie babble on. She must have just gone out to have fun. This is not somewless country and we''re in the Fairchilds'' house - who is so daring as to attempt to murder here?"


    What she really meant to say was that Calista had gone out to have so much ''fun'', she ended up looking like this, and then simply said someone was trying to kill her to cover up.


    The moment she started speaking, Calista turned her gaze to Yelena Langley, her stepmother.


    How lovely...we meet again.


    Yelena froze in shock when she saw the way Calista looked at her and stopped herself from saying more nderous words. She was shocked - Calista was normally a very timid child, why does she look so frightening now?


    "Mom, be careful of what you say. Today is a happy day for my fianc¨¦''s family. Are you trying to make things difficult for the Fairchilds by ndering me?" Upon hearing the phrase ''make things difficult for the Fairchilds'', Yelena panicked and quickly replied, "What are you going on about? I am merely concerned about you! I''m so afraid that you''re only interested in having fun and end up embarrassing the Fairchilds! Look at what you look like now! Who knows what you''ve been up to again!"


    Only heaven knew that Calista had grown up under the tight rein of her stepmother, and her stepmother''s cruelty to her had traumatized her psychologically. And so even after she had grown up and became more capable, she still did not dare to go against her stepmother, her personality growing more and more timid, allowing anybody to step all over her. But now she actually managed to cheat death - why should she still be afraid?


    "Thank you for your concern."


    Calista looked back down at herself andughed bitterly.


    She was standing all wet and dirty in the cold of early spring, yet their first show of concern was to malign her.


    "So this is what concern looks like huh - you''re not worried about why I look like this, instead you twist the truth about me being chased down by a murderer, and you even join my sister in ndering me. Your sort of concern makes me really frightened." Her words left no room for mercy, and each word slowly drained the color from Yelena and Quincy''s faces.


    "You little ingrate! What nonsense are you spouting!"


    Yelena red back at Calista and couldn''t contain her true self.


    Quincy panicked and shouted in time, "Mom!"


    She quickly continued, "Mom, I know you are very concerned about Callie, but please try to stay calm!" Don''t you remember where you are? Yelena suddenly came back to her senses - indeed, this house was not a ce for her tosh out like this. Quincy looked back at Calista and felt a chill in her heart. For some reason this usually useless sister of hers was behaving like she was possessed or something and had be bold enough to say anything she liked.


    But she had to tolerate her words, because Zane was already on his way - she wanted to see how Calista could still defend herself after that!


    But on the surface she still kept up her act of being the good sister, saying, "Callie! Did something agitate you? Mom didn''t mean any harm, how can you talk like that to her? Mom has been so kind to you - if you behave like this, others willugh at you!" When he heard that they might getughed at, Benedict''s mind suddenly cleared as if he just woke up from a dream. He saw that everyone around looked mildly amused by all this, and so he quickly cut in, "Quincy is right - Callie, why are you so rude? Apologize to your mother! Now!"


    Calista couldn''t help butugh.


    Did her father think that she could tolerate anything just because she neverined about being mistreated since she was a child? So, whenever something bad happened she had to take the rap?


    As the saying goes, "Only the babies who know how to cry will get milk to drink." She was born with a personality that was more forbearing and passive, and that was how she ended up being oppressed to death by this mother and daughter in her previous life! This time around, she wasn''t going to tolerate any of this.


    "Dad, I''m so badly hurt, and you don''t even ask about how I am. Mom and Quincy are ndering me and you don''t care either. Then when I defend myself, you want me to apologize? Am I the one who has behaved embarrassingly? If Quincy didn''t start by spouting nonsense but called the police instead, did you think I would stand here and be aughingstock?"


    These words sent Benedict into shock. He suddenly realized that this situation was a result of what his younger daughter and wife had said, and not his eldest daughter. But he was still perplexed - his elder daughter was usually obedient, and always looked at the big picture even if it meant that she had to be on the losing end. Why was she being so immature today?


    At this moment, the butler came running over in a hurry. The party tonight was a small one so Ss Fairchild was not around, and his wife was outside seeing other guests out. The butler was shocked to hear something so serious was happening. The moment he saw Calista, he got a shock! "Ms. Stafford, are you alright? Do you need me to take you upstairs to get your wounds dressed and take a shower?"


    Calista''s heart felt lighter when she saw him.


    "Paul, I''m alright, but there are two men trying to kill me, please call the police to arrest them!"


    "What?" The butler grew serious, "How could such a thing happen? We have failed in our duty. Please be rest assured, Ms. Stafford, we will take care of this matter. As for our other guests, please do not worry, we will assure your safety as well!" The crowd merely smiled and said it didn''t matter - they could see that whatever was happening did not actually concern them.


    Quincy''s face darkened when she heard what the butler said and saw he was calling the police.


    What is taking Zane so long? If Zane and Yael get arrested now, then Calista will get away with this! The police will also interrogate them hard so as to be answerable to the Fairchilds, and these two might confess that I''m part of the n too! No! I must smear Calista''s name tonight! Then people will only focus on the future daughter-inw of the Fairchilds being a promiscuous woman, and won''t think that there''s a bigger scheme behind it all!This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    Perhaps the heavens had heard her thoughts - before she could open her mouth to say anything, a skanky voice came through the door.


    "Ohhhh so Ms. Stafford has run all the way here - Didn''t you have fun just now? Why did you suddenly make a run for it? And get yourself so dirty in the process?" Zane said boldly with Yael Zimmerman following behind him. Unlike the overly confident Zane, Yael saw therge crowds and shrank in fear out of a guilty conscience.


    All the guests recognized these two - they were famous in the elite circles for being wastrels, squandering their family fortune on a variety of vices. Judging from what he said, did it mean that they were with future daughter-inw of the Fairchild family''s? Calista saw them and coldly dered, "Paul! These are the men trying to kill me!"


    Before the butler could respond, Zane pretended to look surprised and shouted loudly, "That doesn''t make sense - just now you were enjoying yourself in bed so much, calling us Honey and all, but someone came by and you made a run for it. Then now falsely using us because you''re afraid of being found out? Nothing will happen to you for simply making usations, but this couldnd us in jail! Besides, I''m richer and more powerful than you, why would I want to kill you? Find a better excuse next time!"

 Chapter 4 The Wounds Beneath The Clothes

    His words sent another shockwave through the crowd.


    The crowd wondered, did he mean that it was Calista who seduced them, but someone happened to walk by and she wanted to cover up what happened, so she purposely made herself look like aplete mess and turned around to use the man she slept with? Or the two men?-


    Quincy smirked on the inside when she heard the crowd making guesses on what happened, but she pretended to cry and said, "Callie! No wonder you were so angry! I believe you didn''t want to do that, they must have forced you to!" Regardless of whether she meant to or not, it still meant that Calista had been defiled!


    Benedict was greatly angered when he heard thesements and didn''t care whether he was embarrassed or not anymore. He demanded, "Callie! What on earth happened?"


    Yelena took this chance to smear her further, "Callie, you took a ss of wine earlier and said you were drunk, so I sent you to the annexe to have a good rest, I can''t believe you ended up doing something like this..."


    This very scene of mother and daughter continuously making false statement one after another brought back memories of what happened in her previous life - Quincy had brought people to find her in a state of undress, sharing the room with these two men. Thest time these two men were also equally adamant that they had sex with her, making sure everyone knew that the future daughter-inw of the Fairchilds was actually a loose woman, seducing two strange men in her own fianc¨¦''s house, that she was an utterly shameless woman!


    At that time, she was only eighteen with a weak personality, so when everyoneughed at her or med her, she couldn''t defend herself and just cried!


    As a result, the rumors got worse and worse, destroying her reputation and the engagement was eventually called off.


    Now she had a second chance at life, and it happened to be this particr night - this was the will of God!


    And this time she must not go soft on them...and she definitely cannot be weak!


    The butler saw that the situation was getting out of hand, so he secretly called Madam Feng.


    Seeing that the murmuring was getting louder and louder, Calista took in a deep breath and blocked out the voices. Then she turned to look at these two scumbags that ruined her previous life and said calmly, "You want to kill me because I overheard about your crimes." Her overly calm and cold voice made everyone quieten down.


    Zane froze for a while, then gave a sly smile as he said, "Come on, Ms. Stafford, don''t try to change the topic. You weren''t like this just now! You were so passionate like you had never seen a man before, and your skin is really..." Calista suddenlyughed.


    Everyone thought she was mad - how could she stillugh at such a time?


    Herughter echoed through therge hall, sending chills down everyone''s spine. Finally, she fixed her eyes back on Zane.


    "Who''s trying to change the topic here? Three months ago, there was a party in the countryside. You both got drunk and were trying to force yourselves on the younger daughter of the Lloyds, but in the end she tried to escape, knocked her head on a rock and died! You were afraid that someone would find out, so you''ve buried her body in Yael''s summer chalet''s garden..."


    "That''s nonsense!" Zane immediately cut in, his face threatening.


    "All we did was have sex with you, and you want to malign us with such a serious crime?"


    He was in a terrible panic, but tried his best to look calm.


    "Malign you?"


    Calista''s eyes fell upon Yael and said, "Look at him over there, does it look like I''ve falsely used you?"


    This sudden change of the situation sent an uproar through the guests.


    A murder was way more scandalous than sex! Everyone turned to look at Yael, to find this six foot man trembling in a corner suddenly burst into tears!


    "My daughter!"


    It turned out that the Lloyds were one of the guests tonight - Mrs. Lloyd had been heartbroken from not being able to find her younger daughter for a while now, and Mr. Lloyd had insisted on bringing her to the party in hope to lift her spirits, and now they heard this shocking piece of news!


    "No..... You despicable woman! Don''t you dare use us of such a thing!"


    Zane shouted while pushing Yael, trying to hint that he had to quickly make a phone call to destroy the dead body. But the Lloyds had already made their way over. Mrs. Lloyd grabbed at Yael, repeatedly demanding to know, "Did you kill my daughter? DID YOU?!" The entire hall was now inplete chaos, and Calista called out to Mr. Lloyd through the noise, "Mr. Lloyd, if you don''t quickly make a call to locate the body, they''re going to find someone to destroy the evidence."


    Mr. Lloyd stared at Calista for a while, but he had no time to think - this was about his daughter''s death after all, so he quickly made a call.


    On the other side Yael was slowly reaching his breaking point as Mrs. Lloyd kept on asking him about whether he had killed her daughter.


    He put his hands over his head and squatted down, "I.... I didn''t mean to! She fell on the rock herself!"


    "ARGGHHHH!!! I''m going to KILL BOTH OF YOU!!"


    The moment Mrs. Lloyd heard this confession, she went all out to punch and kick him, not caring what she looked like.


    Zane had also went into a panic, wondering how Calista could have known about this. It was not possible!


    Calista curled her lips - in her previous life, these two remained free for ten years before they were put into prison for this murder.


    At that time she was extremely depressed, but when she heard about their arrest, she finally felt like justice had been served. So this time round she was determined to catch them with her own hands!This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    Everyone suddenly grew fearful of the two men, and the butler quickly rounded them up.


    When Zane saw that their cell phones were taken away, he knew they couldn''t even make any arrangements to save themselves, and he finally snapped.


    He suddenly broke free from the security guards and reached out to strangle Calista, but the security guard managed to catch him back just before he reached her.


    "You despicable woman! How dare you malign me! I will not let this go! Your acting is really good huh? Beneath your clothes are nothing but love bites from both of us! No matter how you try to defend yourself, the truth is you''ve had sex with us!"


    His hands were like ws, and they were just a few inches from Calista''s neck. Calista took a step back and felt her heart pounding. Fear, anxiety, joy- these feelings filled her heart with so much excitement and her heart kept pounding faster and faster! She was apletely different person now - so this was how good it felt like to get revenge?


    She heard herself saying in a voice way calmer than it should have been, "You will be convicted for attempted rape and first degree murder. Go to hell, you animals."


    ""You slut!"


    Zane tried to kick her but the security guards hauled him away. She watched as the hands trying to reach out and strangling her got carried further and further away from her, then suddenly she smiled and turned towards Quincy.


    That smile sent chills down Quincy''s spine. She suddenly felt that Calista was now different, and she was afraid of her..


    Quincy quietly clenched her teeth, and seeing that everyone was still caught up with what just happened, she patted her chest and then said with a sly voice, "Sis... is what he said true? you and those two really..."


    Those words attracted the attention of everyone present once more. Quincy was determined to smear Calista tonight.


    "What nonsense are you going on about!"


    The mistress of the Fairchild family walked over quickly - she heard Quincy''s words from a mile off, which made her blood boil.


    Wanda Leighton regretted leaving the party at a bad time, and something like that even happened. She apologized to the guests, "The Fairchilds are responsible for what happened tonight. It is unbelievable that we allowed these scumbags in - we will be answerable for everything." After that, she got the butler to send the devastated Lius to the police station. The guests had mixed reactions - at first they thought they were in for merely some scandalous gossip, but it turned out to be a murder case!


    Seeing Wanda had arrived, Quincy pinched herself hard and then ran to her, crying.

 Chapter 5 Make A Decision About Calista

    "Mrs. Fairchild! You have to make a decision about my sister! She and those two bad people..."


    Everyone present was reminded of what Zane said before getting dragged away. They looked at the filthy clothes on Calista and thought, Were there really love bites beneath her clothes?


    It was hard not to suspect - those two scumbags were well capable of doing such a thing!


    Wanda furrowed her brows and was about to berate her, when Calista suddenly smiled at her.


    "It''s alright, Mrs. Fairchild - all the wounds on my body were inflicted when I ran away from the killers. If you don''t believe me, you can do a physical check."


    Many people stopped looking at her suspiciously when she made such a magnanimous offer. But Quincy was certain that Calista was just pretending - they were gone for so long, Zane couldn''t have done absolutely nothing!


    So she chimed in between sobs, "For the sake of clearing my sister''s name, we will have to trouble you, Mrs. Fairchild!"


    Wanda looked at Quincy unhappily when she heard this response, but Calista''s words made her turn back in shock.


    "Well, since I''m Mr. Kallum''s woman, he should be the one checking my body!"


    Another round of murmuring went through the crowd.


    Let Mr. Kallum check her body? Mr. Kallum was the only son of Ss, the sole heir to the Fairchild business empire and their new CEO!


    Kallum was usually very busy withpany matters, and so he seldom attended small parties like this. Calista must have purposely requested for him because he probably wasn''t around.


    Unexpectedly, Wanda only froze for a while and then said, "Sure, I''ll call him over."


    Mr. Kallum was at home? Everyone was surprised.


    Calista smiled and said, "Sorry for the trouble, Mrs. Fairchild."


    She knew he was home, and since his mother was around, he''d definitely appear!


    Suddenly everyone let out a gasp. Calista looked up and saw that Kallum had heard themotion and had walked over.


    Kallum stood at the top of the exquisite mahogany wood staircase as he nodded slightly at the guests. His deep purplish ck eyes narrowed as he looked down, sending hearts fluttering.


    The elegant and luxurious furnishings were now merely a backdrop to his handsome features and poised figure. Just like a king walking out of his pce, he had an aura of confidence andmanded respect, and it would seem disrespectful to look him straight in the eye.


    Calista''s words made Kallum snort, his demeanor ready to attack, and his voice aggressive.


    "You want me to inspect your body? Why should I?"


    His voice rang low and clear, but his face was full of disgust.


    "Also! Who said you are my woman?"


    Mr. Kallum! He was actually at home! But that wasn''t the point - the point was that the rumors about him hating his fianc¨¦e were true after all.


    Everyone, especially thedies, were always excited whenever they saw Kallum! If not for the current situation, they would have gone up to try to chat him up by this time. Kallum was the one man that all the women in the country wanted to marry! Normally, it was so hard to even catch a glimpse of him, never mind seeing him up close!


    The heat was rising in the room from the excitement, but the moment Calista saw him, she immediately froze over.


    Her face was warm with excitement, but the rest of her body was trembling.


    She realized she hadn''t seen him for five or six years now... Calista closed her eyes for a while, then she opened them and looked at him squarely in the eye.


    "On ount that you''ve had me for one night - why am I not considered as your woman now?"


    Her words sent shockwaves rippling through the crowd.


    The guests were practically staring holes into Calista''s back.


    The honorable Mr. Kallum had a fling with the fianc¨¦e he imed to hate? The one who was most shocked was Benedict - he had thought that this marriage might not eventually happen, but he never knew all these other things happened. "Have you no shame?"


    Kallum furrowed his brows and turned to go upstairs.


    Seeing him turn, Wanda quickly called out, "Kallum! Wait!"


    Quincy took a step forward and added, "Mr. Kallum! This concerns my sister''s reputation, please help!"


    At that time, Kallum had been drugged, and very few people knew that he had slept with Calista. Moreover, Kallum thought it was Calista who had drugged him, and so he started to hate her. Even though Quincy had no idea why Calista wanted Kallum to be the one to inspect her body, the thought of Kallum hating Calista even more after seeing all the love bites on her body made Quincy even more excited!


    Perhaps Calista wants to plead with Kallum to help her this once, Quincy thought. Stupid girl, Mr. Kallum is never going to help you!


    The young manpletely ignored what Quincy said. But Wanda pleaded with him, "Kallum, help your mother, please!"


    She had decided that if Callie really had such marks, she wanted her son to help Callie keep this secret.


    Kallum frowned.


    "Take it as your mother is the one pleading with you!"


    Wanda pretended to cough a couple of times - she had heart disease and if there was anyone that the man would listen to, it would be Wanda.


    He looked back down at the woman who clung onto him since they were children, his eyes full of loathing.


    "Come upstairs!"


    His tone was extremely nasty, but Calista still smiled gratefully at Wanda and headed up to the stairs.


    Everyone looked forward to what would happen - Mr. Kallum wouldn''t lie, and he just needed a quick look at her wounds, it should be pretty quick.


    Calista followed behind him, quietly looking at him from the back.


    This was the man she had loved for more than twenty years, so even though he had always hated her, she still tried to please him in every way possible but they still ended badly.


    It took her a long time before she finally understood that his personality was very extreme, and it was very difficult to change his opinion on a person''s character. So even after decades, centuries or even millennia, he would not look at her even once.


    In the past, when she thought about this, her heart would ache. What she did not expect was that now she no longer felt pain, but felt joy instead.


    Pain was proof of her existence, whereas love...was itparable to life?


    Kallum was a very tall man. Once she had entered the room he turned around and loomed over her.


    "Didn''t you want me to inspect your body? Remove your clothes!"


    Remove her clothes? He wanted her to remove all her clothes in front of him?


    Calistaughed a little, and felt that Kallum was just purposely trying to make things difficult for her, since she used to be a shy and cowardly person.


    But she had lost all shame after her body had been repeatedly touched for the sake of research in her previous life.


    Calista pulled her dress'' zip down without reservation, and the dress fell off her body in an instant.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Under the bright light, all her wounds were clearly seen. There were several small fresh cuts, and even more bruises and nail scratch marks, which were a result of her struggling before she awoke in the room. Furthermore, she was wearing nothing inside!


    Her slender figure and fair skin made the wounds appear even more strikingly, but also showed obviously that she had suffered greatly, and it was impossible that any man would remain unmoved by this sight! Kallum''s eyes faltered, but the next second he suddenly felt tremendous anger when he saw those nail scratch marks. Those two b*stards deserve to die - how dare they touch his fianc¨¦e!


    But what stood out even more was how calm Calista was, as if she did not care what had just happened to her.


    He suddenly reached his hand out and pushed her against the door, and said with an icyugh, "You dare to ask me to inspect you when your body is full of such bruises? You want me to lie for you? Dream on!"

 Chapter 6 How To Live With Enemies

    Hisrge frame came close and his deep-set eyes were filled with distrust, his rage suffocating her.


    Every time he was angry, even his father didn''t want to argue with him. In her previous life, Calista was even more fearful than his father, but now she was not afraid at all.


    "At that time you made sure nobody knew that you slept with me in order to spite me, so only both of us know this happened. Just now they were trying to rape me, and these bruises are from trying to resist them, but they didn''t manage to do anything to me. If you don''t believe me, you can check!"


    Kallum thought he heard wrongly. The calmer Calista was, the angrier he became.


    "The extent you would go in order to make me sleep with you! So that''s what you meant by inspecting your body? DREAM! ON!" He let go of Calista and opened the door to leave, but Calista offered in a distant voice, "Didn''t you want to call off the engagement all this time? As long as you say that I wasn''t defiled, I''ll call off the engagement first thing tomorrow."


    Kallum stopped in his tracks and snorted.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    "The moment I walk back downstairs and tell everyone your body is full of love bites, your reputation will hit rock bottom, and this d*mned engagement will be considered invalid."


    He had no intention of doing so, however - insulting a woman was beneath him. But when he saw how Calista was determined to cut ties with him, and even ckmailed him with this engagement, he didn''t want to lose this fight!


    But Calista took his word for it, and said boldly, "Fine, then everybody will know that I cheated on you with not just one, but two men! It''ll make a good show!"


    Upon hearing these words, Kallum spun around violently, his steely gaze enough to swallow her whole!


    Calista knew that this would not be a threat to him since she wasn''t officially married to him yet.


    So after these words she suddenly closed her mouth, and her straight back somehow looked slightly weak in the light.


    "Look...we grew up together, and I''ve already offered to back out of this engagement, won''t you help me this once? You don''t have to lie because I''m innocent in the first ce, and if you don''t believe me then you can check! If you don''t check then I''ll take it that you believe me! Unless you insist on ruining the reputation of this woman who once loved you so deeply?"


    She bet everything on Kallum having a tiny bit of kindness towards her, and she looked so pitiful now!


    She knew that as long as she could make it past the night and keep her reputation, she would be able to face a brand-new future ahead, so she was willing topromise anything.


    Strangely enough, while Kallum was originally waiting for Calista to surrender and admit defeat, when she really did so, Kallum didn''t feel any joy from it.


    Especially as Calista stood there with her body covered with wounds, her thick fringe covering her eyes, and she did look very pitiful...


    Wait, what? He actually felt pity for this woman?


    After several moments, she heard his angry voice shouting, "Get out!"


    Kallum marched out of the room and headed downstairs. The moment he appeared, he caught the attention of the crowd once again.


    Seeing the nasty look on his face made Quincy look forward even more to what he was about to say.


    Mr. Kallum''s words carried great power and influence! He was born into a family of high standing and could not possibly lie for someone he hated so much! Wanda looked at him with hope in her eyes, hoping that her son saw the text message she just sent.


    ""How is it?"


    Her voice trembled - this would affect the rest of this youngdy''s life!


    Kallum was annoyed just seeing these people, so he icily dered, "She''s fine, you don''t have to worry anymore!"


    With that, he turned to go upstairs, not caring what reaction the crowd had.


    Calista had put her clothes back on and was standing at the top of the stairs. Kallum brushed past her, staring straight ahead with a steely gaze and a frigid expression. "How is it possible?" Quincy blurted out loudly.


    Everybody turned to look at her, and even Benedict looked at her questioningly. She suddenly remembered where she was, and whose words she was doubting now.


    She quickly covered her mouth, then awkwardlyughed and said, "I mean, I mean how is it possible that my sister was raped...it''s a misunderstanding after all!"


    Even though that was what she said, her earlier outburst made everyone present think twice about the younger Shang daughter - the guests could tell she was no simple person, and there was probably more to this than meets the eye, but they were probably not going to be privy to further details. Calista walked down one step at a time, her expression calm, and nobody could tell if anything was wrong. She walked right up to Wanda''s side, and looked a little worriedly at her, then finally broke into a smile.


    "Mrs. Fairchild, since the misunderstanding has been cleared up, I''ll make a move first. After all, it seems like Mr. Kallum is not happy to see me." Her words affirmed the fact that Kallum disliked her.


    The suspense and doubts in the guests'' hearts were now reced with disappointment that they couldn''t continue watching this show.


    Wanda took Calista''s hands in hers and said, "Don''t worry, I will make sure that you don''t get unfairly treated!"


    Calista nodded, then shot a cold stare at Benedict. "Dad, let''s go home."


    Benedict was suddenly awoken from his stupor, stammering as he said, "Ah? Oh yes, yes! Let''s go home!"


    To this, Yelena and Quincy did not say anything, and just followed Benedict out of the door.


    Before letting them leave, Wanda insisted that Calista at least wash up and get a fresh change of clothes first - she was genuinely kind to Calista.


    Benedict''s mind was in a whirlwind from everything that had just happened. But at the same time he was not stupid - he knew things were not so simple.


    He saw that both his wife and his younger daughter had nasty expressions on their faces, and wondered why they weren''t happy that the elder daughter was fine after all.


    The car had barely left the Fairchild Manor when Yelena started getting angry.


    She turned around to re at Calista.


    "Callie! What''s wrong with you tonight? Coming in looking like a mess and creating a scene, what an embarrassment!"


    If not for Benedict''s presence, she would have said even nastier things. She and Quincy had revealed a little of their ugly side in front of Benedict today, and she had to push the me entirely on Calista to salvage this situation. Yelena''s fierce expression made Calista stop breathing for a moment.


    She had grown up being subject to Yelena''s moods, and her first instinct was to shrink back in fear when Yelena became angry. She used to be like that - her stepmother was like arge mountain pressing on her.


    But now that fear was quickly overtaken by excitement! What could be more satisfying than tearing fear to pieces with her own hands?


    Seeing that Calista had gone back to being her quiet self, Quincy quickly took the chance to cry out piteously, "Callie, I was trying to help you, and perhaps I didn''t phrase it well, but you...how could you talk about me like that in front of other people..."


    When Benedict saw his younger daughter cry, his heart softened, and felt that Callie had gone too far tonight - from the start her words attacked Quincy, she had been unnecessarily sarcastic to his wife, and then she admitted that she had slept with Kallum in front of so many people. Even though they were engaged from a long time ago, it was still a shameful thing to say in public.


    When Yelena saw Benedict frown, she knew he was feeling upset, so she pretended to push him in anger.

 Chapter 7 One More Shameless Than Another

    "Benedict, say something! Now Callie has grown up and doesn''t listen to me anymore. You talk to her - she was in the wrong, wasn''t she?"


    Benedict took a while to think before finally opening his mouth, "Callie...it was wrong of you to make a big scene. Why didn''t you settle everything in private? It wouldn''t have made a difference if you could told Mrs. Fairchild all these things privately, right? Now I don''t know


    how others will see us!"


    How will they see us? They''ll see right through us, thought Calista.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    She felt likeughing, but her heart started pounding furiously. She had been given a second chance at life but now she had to sit with her enemies. It didn''t feel good at all, and all the feelings bottling inside her were going to explode anytime. "Stop the car."


    At hermand, the car came to an abrupt halt, causing Yelena to suddenly lurch forward in shock. She red at the driver, then started her tirade against Calista.


    "What now, I can''t even scold you when you do something wrong? It''s so hard being your stepmother - after spending so many years raising you, now you''ve grown up and want to rebel against me?"


    Saying this, she looked bitterly at Benedict, as if she were the biggest victim.


    "Look at your daughter, I can''t control her anymore. Normally she''s already disobedient, and now she''s rebelling. I''ve been so kind to her yet she treats me like an enemy..."


    Benedict was also angered by the sudden brake earlier, and his anger was further fueled by what Yelena said, and became even more upset.


    "Callie, you have been too disobedient, apologize to your mother now!"


    Quincy saw that Calista''s face went all white, so she decided to add fuel to the fire. "Daddy, don''t be angry with Callie, maybe she couldn''t control her temper because she was frightened by those bad guys." "So it''s ok to take it out on family members?"


    Benedict looked straight at Calista, "Callie, is this how I taught you?"


    Family?


    Calista finally cracked a small smile - her father was used to being biased, and it was a hard habit to kick. But surely it was obvious who was the bullying one.


    The pounding in her heart was getting stronger and stronger, and Calista was about to burst!


    She tried her best to remain calm and said, "Dad, you guys can go home first, I have matters to attend to."


    Yelena got even angrier as she heard Calista try to brush away the topic.


    "Are you turning a deaf ear to your father''s words? Besides, it''s sote now - what sort of proper matters could you be attending to?" Her words seemed to imply that Calista was going to engage in indecent behavior.


    A fire suddenly zed in Calista''s eyes. The pounding in her heart reached its climax, and she had a murderous look on her face, but it was covered by her thick fringe and her lowered head.


    In the past she was never like this, preferring to suffer in silence, cowering in fear of her stepmother. Even if she was maligned in public, she would never have dared to fight back or try to clear her name, resulting in that useless personality of hers, and that''s why she died in such a terrible way.


    But now when she heard Yelena''s voice, she only felt the fire in her heart rising and she was ready to tear her stepmother''s mouth off anytime!


    "Mrs. Stafford!"


    She suddenly called out in a high voice, shooting a look so cold that could freeze one instantly.


    Calista had always called her Mom, but now she had changed to calling her Mrs. Stafford - everyone in the car was stunned.


    Calista continued staring at Yelena for a few moments, before moving her gaze to look at Benedict and Quincy.


    The extreme difference in her behavior sent fear into the others'' hearts.


    "So ording to you, Mrs. Stafford, I should not make things clear and let my sister use me falsely and leave the details to other people''s imagination? So you''d be happier to hear that others think the Staffords'' daughter was raped, and raped by more than one person even? Then I wouldn''t be an embarrassment?"


    "You....wh-what is this you are saying..."


    Yelena was beginning to feel guilty as Calista used her cold eyes to stare her down. Calista was never like this before, was she overly traumatized by what happened today?


    Benedict was also stunned into silence - his elder daughter had always held everything in, why was she behaving like this tonight?


    Before he could figure out what had happened, Calista had locked on him as her next target.


    "Dad!"


    Benedict got a shock - the way Calista had called him was very cold and stiff. He looked back and saw the sadness behind the cold expression in her eyes.


    "Dad, you''re too biased! Quincy is your child, am I not your child too? There were people trying to kill me, and I was nearly raped! My entire body is full of cuts and bruises! Fine if you can''t see any of these - Mrs. Stafford kept trying to find ways to smear my reputation, and you still think it''s my fault? If other people thought that those two scumbags really defiled me, do you think our family can still walk with our heads high tomorrow? Is this all my fault?" Benedict waspletely taken aback by these words. This was the first time his elder daughter had told him straight in the face that he was biased!


    Quincy saw that things were not looking good, so she swallowed quickly and said, "Callie, you''re making it sound scarier than it was. Even if you were just trying to prove your innocence, you shouldn''t have said such things to Mom and I...we weren''t saying these things on purpose, what would others think of us now..."


    "I shouldn''t have?" Calista was so angry that she scoffed. Unable to contain her anger any longer, she decided not to contain it anymore.


    "Then let me ask you in return, my lovely younger sister, what was the first thing you said when you saw me? You asked if someone got too friendly with me? There wasn''t just one statement - every statement of yours after that was obviously trying to smear me! You still have the gall to say that it wasn''t on purpose? Do you think everyone else is blind? You created this scene, I exposed your evil intentions and this is STILL MY FAULT?"


    Calista ranted on without mercy. Quincy was so shocked she couldn''t even cry, and her face turned a whiter shade of pale.


    "Callie!" Benedict could also see that there was definitely something very wrong with his elder daughter, and it wasn''t a matter of who was right or wrong anymore - she must have been extremely traumatized, and probably needed a psychiatrist now. Calistaughed coldly, "Either send me to Grandma''s, or I''ll take a cab there myself."


    Quincy froze for a while, then something clicked in her brain, and she asked, "Callie, it''s sote, why do you want to go over to Grandma''s? Even if you''re angry with me saying the wrong thing, you should still go home!"


    Calista merelyughed at this, and the meaningful look in her eyes made Quincy shudder.


    Both Grandpa and Grandma had died many years back, but they left behind a house and a safe. There were many valuable things in the safe, but they had left everything to Calista alone.


    Calista kept a close eye on the safe, and the key was the ear stud on her right ear, and carried it with her all the time.


    Quincy''s original n was to ruin Calista''s reputation tonight, then she would have a chance to get the key from her and open the safe at Grandma''s.


    There was once she secretly went to their grandparent''s house when Calista wasn''t around and saw that the safe was very special - if you tried to open it by force, it would automatically self-destruct, so she gave up the idea of trying.


    But she also realized that this seemingly useless sister of hers had excellent research in medicine! One look at the various data on the table told her that this research had incredible value. It was a pity that Calista came back earlier than expected, and she wasn''t able to steal the data.

 Chapter 8 Her Hideout

    After all that happened, Calista wanted to go to their grandparent''s ce - could it be that Calista found out about her ns?


    After letting everything out, Calista felt much better inside. Her personality had gone through a violent transformation, but she had not forgotten what the most important thing was.


    "I forgot to turn on the security system earlier - there are many valuable things in Grandpa and Grandma''s safe, I''m afraid someone might break in."N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Calista simply made up an excuse, but the mother and daughter pair in the car became anxious, because those things that her grandmother left to Calista were supposed tond in their hands and nobody else''s!


    Yelena let anger overtake her worry and said, "What a careless child! Hank, hurry to the house now!"


    Once they were on their way, everyone in the car did not continue the earlier quarrel and remained silent.


    Quincy and her mother saw that Calista was behaving like a mad dog, biting anyone she talked to, and decided not to agitate her further - the things that Grandma left behind were more important.


    In the dead silence, Benedict couldn''t help but take a look at his wife seated next to him. In the dim lighting of the car, he suddenly felt that the tense expression on his wife''s face looked terrifying. Had she really been a good stepmother?


    All this time he thought everyone in the family got along well - or was that all a sham?


    When he thought about what Callie had said and considered it carefully, he realized that his younger daughter had indeed said nothing but words to smear Callie''s reputation throughout the party, and his wife had joined in...he suddenly shuddered out of fear at this thought.


    If Callie had not insisted on clearing up the whole misunderstanding, his family would bepletely disgraced.


    It seemed that his elder daughter was not in the wrong, but said a lot of nasty things merely in a fit of anger.


    As for himself...it seemed like he was indeed biased.


    It was still raining, but slowly getting lighter, and the air in the car became even heavier than before.


    Quincy couldn''t help but lower the car windows a little, thinking to herself what she had to do to secure some benefits for herself. Her father was around too - when he sees so many valuable things in the house that Grandma unfairly left to Calista alone, she would probably get one or two things, right?


    Calista knew exactly what was in their hearts even without looking at them. She focused on listening to the rain beating on the windows and slowly calmed her heart. It had been such a long time since shest heard the sound of rain. "Sir, we''ve arrived."


    Calista slowly opened her eyes when she heard Hank''s voice.


    Quincy quickly interjected, "Callie, I know this ce has a security rm system all set up, but it''s not really safe out here. Why don''t you bring back Grandpa and Grandma''s things home instead?"


    Yelena snorted loudly, and said with a sneer, "How can we be a family if you hide even small things like this? Not sure who you''re even hiding from!"


    In the past, Benedict did not think much of Calista running to this house all the time, but after what happened earlier, he suddenly realized that his family was not living in harmony like he had imagined, and he hoped that Calista could stay at home more often and bond with the family.


    So he said, "Your mother is right, bring the things home - it''s safe at home."


    Safe?


    Calista hid the feelings of taunting in her eyes - in her previous life, this was the day that her reputation waspletely destroyed by Quincy, and was locked up in the room after she got home.


    That very same night, Quincy took her safe key and opened the safe, taking away not just what Grandma had left behind, but also the medical research and results she had umted over the years, iming they were hers.


    By the time she knew about this, it was already toote. She wanted to report Quincy, but she was already dismissed as a hopeless child, and her father would have never allowed her to destroy his only other daughter.


    So all the rtives told her that the Staffords needed a sessor, and since she couldn''t take up this position, she mustn''t ruin her sister''s future.


    At that time she didn''t know that the two men were in cahoots with Quincy, so she was persuaded and gave in begrudgingly.


    After that she was slowly pressured by Quincy, and her intelligence and capabilities were used to create Quincy''s sess. Everything started from this very night.


    So she was determined not to give her enemies another chance.


    She suppressed the agitated feelings she felt in her heart and spoke calmly, "Sure, I''ll bring some important things back, then I''lle less often in the future."


    Upon hearing this, Benedict felt that this daughter was still the obedient daughter he knew, and so the snarkyments earlier must have resulted from the fact that she was traumatized by the events, and he quickly nodded. Quincy saw what was happening and was about to say she wanted to go in with Calista, but Calista spoke before she could say anything, "Dad, that ce was my private space during my childhood, so I would like to go in alone to pack up." Benedict gave Quincy a look, then said to Calista, "Sure, go ahead. We''ll wait here for you." Calista then slowly got out of the car.


    The rain had stopped, but the ground was all wet. Calista started walking towards the back of the bamboo forest when she suddenly felt feelings of apprehension. The Staffords were a family of doctors, and her grandparents were very capable people, but they had only one son and spoiled him too much, resulting in his weak but stubborn character, and by the time they realized this, it was toote to change him.


    Her great grandfather was a doctor to the royal family, and so were the nine generations before him, so several valuable treasures were passed down over the years.


    When she was young, her grandfather saw her talent and was not pleased with his son marrying Yelena, so he took her in and raised her until she was eleven years old. Her grandmother was from a well-to-do family, so she was literate and well versed in literature and arts. She also had dowry that was passed down from generation to generation, and every item was of extremely high value.


    The old couple were kind and mild mannered, so they always taught her to be humble and courteous, to be filial and honest.


    But they never taught her how to stand up for herself.


    Suddenly a small house appeared in front of her, and it looked very old and shabby.


    Her grandparents were wealthy, but after they became older, they just wanted to live near nature and weren''t used to fancy electrical appliances. If not for the sake of safekeeping those out-of-print books, her grandparents would have never prepared such a technologically advanced safe. The trees around the house were all nted by her grandfather, and as she stood in front of the door, she could imagine her grandmother ying the violin and her grandfather practicing his calligraphy.


    The moment she pushed open the wooden door, the smell of ink made her freeze slightly, and she began to recall everything that happened.


    At that moment, she was no longer a thirty something year old who had lived a life of humiliation and torture, eventually dying horribly and full of hatred.


    Instead, she was now eighteen again, a weak spirited girl thoroughly bullied by her stepmother and younger sister. Every time she was bullied when she was younger, she would run and hide in this house to cry by herself.


    But from today onwards, she will not do this again.


    Calista pressed the ear stud on her left ear, turning off the security rm. This security rm was installed after she discovered Quincy had secretly entered the house, and she used up all her savings to install it. Once this rm was triggered, the police would reach the house in three minutes. Perhaps...back then she already had a feeling that Quincy wanted to steal her things, but she was too cowardly to do anything else besides just installing a security system.


    After entering the house, she turned on the lights - besides the lights, rm system and safe, there was no sign of modernity in this little wooden house. Even if she were blindfolded she could still find her way around every part of the house, and each part carried many memories for her.

 Chapter 9 The Start Of Doing As I Please

    After her grandparents passed away, she did not ck off - she would often hide here to read, train, practice acupuncture, record the experiments she did at school, then write down the conclusion of those experiments.


    The papers that were scattered on the desk were the results of all these years of research!


    With a wave of her arm, Calista sent all these papers flying in the air, each piece of paper catching the light in her eye and then falling into the shadows. These valuable papers that most people would fight to get their hands on were now like trash in her hands. When Calista walked back to the car, she held a box in her hands, but it was locked. She passed the box to Benedict and said calmly, "Dad, these are things left behind by Grandpa and Grandma, I''m passing them to you for safekeeping."


    Quincy could not keep her eyes off the box made from mahogany, and was hardly able to suppress the greed in her eyes.


    Her gaze made Calista feel very ufortable, and she suddenly shut the car door again and did not get into the car.


    "Dad, I suddenly remembered I have to sort some documents. Tell you what, you guys can go home first and I''ll stay here tonight."


    Benedict frowned, "No. You''re wounded - how can you stay here?"


    So he finally remembers I''m injured?


    Calista looked at him strangely - she was wearing the clothes that Mrs. Fairchild had passed to her, and none of the wounds were visible. "It''s okay, it''s just a few scratches. There''s plenty of medicine here anyway, I''ll dress my wounds myself." Benedict wanted to try persuading further, but after thinking about her unusual behavior earlier, he thought that perhaps she really just wanted some time to quieten down, but it was best that she doesn''te here anymore.


    "How about this - packing up everything in the house anding back tomorrow! After that don''te running here anymore - it''s best that family members live together."


    Calista stiffened her hands but still smiled weakly.


    "Ok, this will be thest time I''ll stay here. Take care of the box for me, in case there are....thieves."


    Yelena sneered at this, but by some miracle she did not make anyment.


    Quincy saw that Calista wasn''t leaving with them and started getting anxious. From what she saw thest time, the documents on Calista''s desk were of great value, and she was getting her hands on them! Could it be that Calista was going to hide them? She thought of saying that she too, wanted to stay, but couldn''t bear to part with that box of treasures.


    After giving it a further thought, perhaps it was better that Calista wasn''t home tonight. Then she could open the box and take a couple of items, and her father wouldn''t say anything.


    So between the papers and her grandmother''s valuable dowry, Quincy made the hard decision of choosing thetter. She had no idea that for as long as Calista was around, she was destined to get none of the things she wanted.


    Finally, Benedict reminded Calista a few times to remember to turn on the security rm before sleeping, and then left for home.


    After she saw that they had gone quite a distance, she quickly made her way back to the house.


    She stood and stared for a long time at the door.


    Then she opened the door, picked up a box, then suddenly kicked the stove over and lit a fire!


    The outside of the house was wet from the rain, but it was very dry inside. There were also all the papers that Calista had scattered earlier, so the house caught fire very quickly.


    If Benedict were here, he would definitely think Calista had gone mad! The family knew how much this house meant to Calista.


    These papers were the painstaking results of countless sleepless nights!


    These calligraphy exercises werepleted under the guidance of her grandmother when she was younger!


    Those dolls that she practiced acupuncture on were her only friends when she was a child!


    And now Calista was burning everything up at once.


    Calista calmly walked out, and when she turned back to look, she could already see the fire through the windows.


    She would not forget how Quincy had taken all her things and imed them as her own in her previous life. She would never, never forget, how she eventually became a tool for Quincy to be sessful.


    When she found out what had happened, she tried to fight back with all her might, but Quincy had already reached the peak of her career, so it was useless to fight back. After she had lost all hope and decided to run away, she was subject to more than one murder attempt.


    Quincy was afraid that Calista would expose her evil deeds and even be better than her, so sheid traps for her everywhere. Eventually she was not content with just ruining her reputation, she even infected Calista with that incurable K virus...


    Perhaps it was not yet time for her to die - after being infected with the K virus, she didn''t die within the predicted time frame of a month. Quincy was still determined to kill her, so when she realized Calista hadn''t died yet, she reported this matter and turned Calista into a living experiment with no human rights and subject to constant torture.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Her legs were deliberately broken by others when she was on the run, so she waspletely unable to fight back, paralyzed for those three years in the basement researchb!


    Three years...


    Calistaughed.


    The mes engulfed the whole house, and she saw nothing but mes.


    Burn! Continue burning! She wanted to see how anybody could steal information from her brain!


    Suddenly there was an explosion from inside the house, followed by more explosions, and the whole house copsed.


    The mes were now exposed, and the bright mes lit her face that seemed neither happy nor sad.


    Burning this ce was equivalent to destroying the timid side of her, and now she was on the road of no return!


    From now on she was finally able to do whatever her heart desired. If someone dared to touch her things, she would cut off their hands and feet. If someone dared to make life difficult for her, she would make their lives a living hell! Calista was going to make aeback!


    The fire continued for several hours, and Calista calmly observed from the side, making sure the fire did not spread to the mountainside.


    All was calm and peaceful - this house should have disappeared along with its owners.


    After everything was over, Calista buried the box in her hands.


    The box that Benedict brought back the night before had valuable items in it too, but it wasn''t her grandmother''s dowry, it was the out-of-print books that belonged to her grandfather. Quincy wouldn''t be able to understand anything in those books, so Calista wasn''t worried about her taking them.


    After she had buried the box, she looked back onest time at the rubble.


    In her previous life, she was alive but not truly living; when she died she disappeared into nothingness. This was a second chance at living - she would definitely cherish this chance.


    Calista made her way down the hill and arrived back at the Fairchild Manor.


    At noon time the butler saw her and got a shock.


    "Ms. Stafford! You...did you not return homest night?"


    Calista was still wearing the clothes that she got from the Fairchild Manor the night before, her wounds were still not dressed, and she was covered in soot.


    But there was a gleam in her eyes, and a bounce in her footsteps - the butler saw an indescribable elegance emanating from her.


    She had not slept the entire night, but Calista did not feel tired at all. She smiled meaningfully at the butler, and he understood what she meant.


    "Paul, could you bring me somewhere to wash up? I would like to see Mrs. Fairchild, but if I go looking like this, she will be very worried."


    The butler was worried, but since Calista did not want Wanda to know, it was better for him not to say anything. So he brought Calista to wash up.


    Wanda heard that Calista hade to visit her and was pleasantly surprised. Then she suddenly thought of something and asked the butler, "Kallum is still at home, right?" The butler nodded, "Mr. Kallum is at home, but he''s probably going to leave after lunch." Wanda nodded and left to look for Calista. She was very satisfied with this daughter-inw to be!


    When she saw Wanda approaching her, gentleness shed in Calista''s eyes. If there was one person she felt she owed in her previous life, it would be Wanda.

 Chapter 10 Calling Off The Engagement

    Her engagement to Kallum was an agreement between herte mother and Wanda when they were babies. The twodies were the best of friends, and after Wanda had married up, she wanted to help her best friend as much as possible. Even after Calista''s motherC¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    passed away, Wanda insisted on keeping this engagement, otherwise Ss would not have agreed to let his son marry her.


    In her previous life, after her reputation was left in tatters by those two men the night before, Wanda initially refused to call off the engagement, but after tremendous pressure from the family, she had no choice but to take back the emerald thumb ring. After that, whenever she was in trouble, Wanda woulde to her rescue. Unfortunately she was a weak person in her previous life and felt that she had let Wanda down, so she eventually let herself be bullied to death and did not call for help. "Callie, you''re here so early?"


    Calista smiled, "I have toe in person to settle something, sorry to disturb you, Mrs. Fairchild."


    Kallum lifted his head from behind theputer when he heard what the servant said.


    He had a pair of beautiful but extremely sharp eyes, ck yet slightly purplish. Each time he shot someone a stare, that person would feel under extreme pressure. "What''s she here for?"


    Kallum thought that she hade to harass him and furrowed his brows.


    She did say that she woulde to call off the engagement, but Kallum did not take those words seriously - if this woman is so obedient, I''ll thank her instead.


    The servant stuttered, "Mr. Kallum, she''s here to call off the engagement..."


    "What?!" Wanda got up with a start. "I will not agree to this!"


    Calista already predicted that she would respond like this, so she smiled gently and tried to exin, "Mrs. Fairchild, listen to me..."


    "Did Kallum say something to youst night? Or perhapsst night..."


    Wanda thought to herself, could it be that those two scoundrels did something to Callie? But she had asked her sonst night, and even though he was annoyed by the question, he still said that she hadn''t been defiled... So her son must have done something!


    Calista shook her head. Her tone of voice was still pleasant and lovely as ever, but it was missing weakness, carrying confidence instead.


    "I am very grateful that Mr. Kallum spoke up for me and cleared the misunderstandingst night. However, calling off the engagement is my own choice." Wanda was even more confused - didn''t Callie like her son very much? Kallum must have done something behind her back!


    "Callie, be honest with me. Did Kallum say something to youst night? You''ve had...rtions with Kallum, did he say he didn''t want to be responsible for what had happened?!"


    Calista gave a wry smile - Wanda was so angry, as if someone else''s son had bullied her daughter.


    It filled her heart with warmth and much patience.


    She saw that Wanda was about to speak, and quickly interrupted her, "Mrs. Fairchild, that was an ident and I was a willing party, so there''s no need for Mr. Kallum to be responsible for anything. As for today, it is because I''ve straightened out my thoughts." "Look over there..."


    Calista pointed to the painting in the middle of the living room. Wanda didn''t understand why she was pointing at the painting, and continued staring at her. Calista smiled and continued, "This is a genuinendscape painting by the great Renaissance artist, Pieter Bruegel, right? Anywhere else it would be considered a great treasure, but in the Fairchild Manor this is just another ordinary item."


    Wanda still did not understand what she was getting at.


    Calista picked up the cup in her hand, "And this golden enamel cup was used solely by Ferropenian royalty - each set costs more than ten million, and is now valued at a much higher price than its original value."


    Not only that - the sofa she sat on, the coffee she drank and everything else she could see, were not things that just any normal wealthy family owned, much less the Stafford family who couldn''t even be considered wealthy.


    Wanda suddenly understood what she was driving at.


    She frowned deeply, "Callie, these are all material things!"


    She looked at Calista and said with a serious voice, "As long as both of you get along, who cares what sort of family you''re from?"


    The Fairchild family had more than enough material wealth for themselves already and didn''t need more from another family.


    Calistaughed at her naivety - but how could she get her point across? She used to be equally naive herself. "That''s too bad - he doesn''t like me."


    She never thought that the day woulde when she could say this inly. She remembered that in her previous life, her reputation was tarnished and she was locked in the house by her father, but she managed to escape with much effort just so that she could exin things to Kallum. Yet he had looked at her with such disdain... It was a pity that she did not understand this look back then, and she thought that Kallum had merely misunderstood her. Calista''s calm voice made Wanda even more anxious. She knew that her son had no feelings for Callie, but still...


    Calista continued, "Also, Mr. Fairchild doesn''t really want me as his daughter-inw, right? The Staffords were a family of doctors, but my father failed to carry on this tradition. And even if he continued, the Stafford family would never be good enough for the Fairchild family, so you should go and look for a girl with a truly rich and powerful background, and not someone like me..."


    At this point Calista let out a smallugh, and said in a more rxed manner, "Whenever I sat here I always felt like I didn''t belong here - every item here is too beautiful, too elegant, with an opulence I can''t find anywhere else. I know you want me to marry into the Fairchild family so that you can take good care of me, but Mr. Kallum hates me, and I should take the hint."


    Calista''s words made Wanda sad because it was true that her husband was not happy with Calista as their daughter-inw. But she felt that Callie was a good match - someone who was gentle and kind, genuine and honest.


    She was a little weak and timid, but that was the fault of her stepmother, and she could rx after getting married.


    "Callie, are you sure about this? Your stepmother and sister are not going to sit by and do nothing. If you call off this engagement, I don''t know how they''re going to mistreat you."


    Calista smiled a little and said, "That would be considered our family issue, and so in the future no matter how crazy it gets in our family, it will not affect the Fairchilds. Mrs. Fairchild, I know you mean well, but please don''t risk the love Mr. Fairchild has for you for my sake. I will still continue to live well." Wanda was very disappointed - seeing how serious Callie looked, it seemed like there was no other way but to call the engagement off.


    Calista quietly waited for her to think this through. She knew that Wanda would understand that it was pointless to force two ipatible people together.


    For some reason, as she sat there quietly, she emanated a sort of calming beauty. Even though the thick fringe covered her eyes, there was a peace that surrounded her as she epted her reality.


    The servants standing at the side held their breath, as if they were afraid to disrupt her.


    If Calista used to have the air of a stingy person, today it was as if she had the air of someone generously giving away pearls - just by sitting there, she looked like the daughter of an upper-ss family from ancient times, and it was hard to take your eyes away from her. Every item in the Fairchild Manor was priceless to the average person on the street. But with Calista in their midst, no matter how valuable they were, they were merely a backdrop for her.


    Wanda was too preupied with other thoughts to notice this, but Kallum noticed this as he watched from the top of the stairs.


    He was stunned by this breathtaking sight, but he stopped himself with a click of his tongue. Since she''s so aware of her situation and she''s called off the engagement, what is there left for me to say?


    Something tugged at his heartstrings, but he decided to ignore it, instead turning and going back upstairs.


    Finally, Wanda let out a sigh.

 Chapter 11 You Have Very Mesmerizing Lips

    Calista let out a sigh of relief. She removed the thumb ring from her hand and ced it on the table.


    This thumb ring signified that she was the next mistress of the Fairchild family, and had rights to 20% of the family assets. This ring was coveted by countless women, but yet when Calista removed it, she felt much lighter. "Thank you, Mrs. Fairchild."


    Wanda couldn''t bear to part with her - Callie was so obedient and so mature, it hurt her to watch Callie suffer. She couldn''t help but blurt out, "Even without this engagement, you muste and visit me often..." Suddenly she had an idea!


    "Or how about I adopt you as my goddaughter?"


    Calista wanted to reject her at first, but once she thought about how she would benefit from being a goddaughter of the Fairchild family, she hesitated. After all, given her current situation, she would need some assistance.


    So she did not immediately reject, instead saying with a smile, "This is no small matter. Why don''t you decide after discussing with Mr. Fairchild?"


    Then she stuck her tongue out and said yfully, "If I really be your daughter, I might embarrass the Fairchilds though."


    Wanda quickly promised her, "There''s no problem at all! You''re my daughter, how could you be an embarrassment?"


    The more she thought about it, the more she felt that this would work out. Her husband did not really approve of Callie being his daughter-inw, but Callie hade to call off the engagement of her own ord today. So if she were to adopt Callie as her goddaughter, her husband wouldn''t say anything anymore!


    Calista smiled and prepared to leave as she had to attend to more things after this, but Wanda couldn''t bear the thought of her going back and insisted that she stay and have lunch.


    Calista thought, Kallum hates sitting at the same table with me, so he''s definitely noting down to eat, and agreed to stay.


    They chatted for a while more, and Wanda nagged her about many things before finally adjourning to the dining hall.


    The Fairchilds were extremely wealthy, nobody could deny this.


    This old mansion stood on more than two thousand square miles ofnd, and even simple things like serving trays exuded luxury.


    There were many who thought that Calista was merely after the family wealth, so even though Kallum didn''t like her, she held onto this engagement. Perhaps only a small handful of people knew that she genuinely liked Kallum for who he was.


    Even though she looked down on herself and was bullied by many other youngdies, but there was nothing she could do - she really, really liked him. Perhaps liking him had even drained her lifetime''s worth of courage and strength from the weak personality she had, but unfortunately, feelings cannot be forced.


    After half the dishes were served, Wanda called a servant over. "Call Kallum toe down and eat."


    Calista stopped her, "Mrs. Fairchild, is it ok if it''s just both of us for lunch today?"


    Her eyes pleaded with Wanda, "It''s been a long time since I had a good chat with you."


    The loneliness in her eyes made Wanda''s heart ache for her. She''s such a good girl, she thought. This silly son of mine simply says he doesn''t like her, only heaven knows what sort of woman he wants!


    "Alright then..." She sighed and then told the servant, "Since he is busy, bring the food up to him."


    After giving instructions, she continued chatting with Calista.


    They started talking about Calista''ste mother, and Calista listened with a smile on her face, and Wanda finally realized the difference about Calista. She was still that gentle and well-mannered girl, but the timid and shy part was gone, as if she had grown up overnight. Wanda figured the two menst night must have really given her a terrible scare, and she was determined to make sure those two were properly dealt with!


    Just when both of them were talking happily with one another, Kallum unexpectedly appeared at the table.


    Calista''s smile froze slightly, and even though it was not obvious in her expression, she was definitely gripping the fork and knife harder.


    She was still unable to face him calmly - he was her reason to live in her previous life, and also the love of her life that was never reciprocated.


    Kallum noticed that Calista had be nervous, and he smiled a little, exuding confidence.


    Today he wore a dark blue shirt and left two buttons undone, revealing his perfect corbones and the outline of his muscles.


    As he walked over, his straight and strong long legs were very eye-catching, and it was hard to see him and contain oneself.


    There was somebody who said Kallum was like a diamond, giving off unlimited amounts of heat and brightness.


    Calista suddenlyughed and rxed - she knew his heart was as hard as a diamond. Once he had made up his mind on what sort of person you were, his judgement wouldn''t change. If he hated you, he would hate you forever.


    Wanda was shocked that her son came out voluntarily. He had never wanted toe out whenever Callie was around.


    Anyhow, she still hoped that the two of them could get along - if they really became godbrother and godsister, surely they could not continue this cold war forever?


    Kallum threw a nce at Calista but didn''t say anything, seating himself down as if he were here just to eat.


    Wanda realized that as long as she remained at the table, the two wouldn''t talk to one another, so she made a big show of saying loudly, "Oh dear! I''ve forgotten to move the red peace lilies I bought the other day! It rained so heavilyst night, what if they''ve been drenched to death..."


    She quickly called the two servants standing in the dining hall to help her with moving the nts, and then apologetically said to Calista, "Callie, continue eating first, I''ll be right back!"


    Calista smiled awkwardly, how could the servants of this household ever allow these precious flowers to be drenched by the rain? Wanda''s excuse wasn''t the best, but her good intentions warmed Calista''s heart.


    If only she were Wanda''s daughter, but she had no such luck.


    "Go ahead, Mrs. Fairchild."


    Wanda nodded, took one nce at her son and then left the room.


    She had taken all the servants in the dining hall with her, so therge hall was left with only Kallum and Calista, and there was silence for a while. "Looks like you''ve changed your strategy, huh?"


    Calista didn''t even lift her head in response.


    Kallum lowered his eyes and drank the red wine that was in front of him, looking as if he had guessed it right.


    "So you''vee to call off the engagement, then use my mother''s guilt to make you a goddaughter of the Fairchilds?"


    He secretly nced at Calista, his deep eyes sharp and alert.


    "You''ve be quite clever now."


    Calista continued eating in silence, ignoring everything he said.


    Kallum had never been treated so coldly in his life. He stopped smiling, and the anger he was suppressing began to boil.


    "Trying to y hard to get again?"


    At this, Calista finally put down her fork and looked up at him.


    Under the thick fringe, her ck eyes sparkled like the stars - they were originally a pair of lonely looking eyes, but now there was an added element of mystery.


    Kallum frowned - he could feel that she was different now, but just couldn''t put his finger on it.


    "Are you done talking?"


    She got up and walked towards Kallum. Kallum''s fingers held the stem of his crystal wine ss firmly and he eyed her suspiciously.


    As she walked, the long white dress showed off her perfect curves, and the cinched waist design made her look fragile and pure.


    She stood in front of Kallum and spoke in a dreamy voice, "You have really sexy lips. You know?"


    Kallum frowned more deeply as he thought, this woman is still the same after all, clinging onto me uselessly. But in the next moment, everything went dark! She had bent over and pressed her cold and wet lips onto his!Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 12 The Two Faced Younger Sister

    Even though she had only touched his lips for one moment, Calista immediately felt happier. She had wanted to do it since a long time ago but didn''t dare to. So now that she wanted to try, why not? She licked her lips, relishing the moment.


    "Just as I thought, you''re cuter when you don''t say anything."


    "Calista!" Kallum stood up suddenly. He was definitely not going to admit that he had felt something like electricity passing through him when she kissed him. How could he have such feelings toward such a woman?


    He was taller than Calista by a head, and his stare was very imposing. "You really have no shame!"


    Calista looked up at him innocently. "You said I was ying hard to get, so I decided to take some initiative. You said I don''t have any shame, so I should take some advantage of you to make this humiliating title worthwhile. You think I''m downright disgusting, so you don''t have to appear in front of me in the future you know?"


    "You!" Kallum narrowed his eyes at her, and shocked to see this darned woman looking excited and provocative.


    She used to be so clingy and timid, how did she turn into a different person overnight?


    Unfortunately for him, Wanda came back. She saw them standing next to one another and talking, and couldn''t help but smile. "What are both of you chatting about?"


    Kallum wanted to draw back, but the youngdy in front of him beat him to it, and that determination in her eyes to draw the line clearly with him made him extremely unhappy.


    "Mrs. Fairchild..." Calista smiled gently at Wanda and said, "I didn''t realize I''d been out for so long. My father must be getting worried, so I will take my leave now."


    "You''re leaving already?" Wanda''s disappointment was written all over her face. She saw her son standing at the side looking extremely annoyed and she wondered if they had quarreled again. So even though she couldn''t bear to let Calista leave, she let her go home. Before leaving she kept reminding Calista toe to the house often.


    "I will, Mrs. Fairchild. You don''t have to see me out," Calista responded obediently. In front of Wanda, she remained to be that gentle and obedient girl. Wanda nodded, sighing in her heart. Calista was such a lovely child, it was a pity that she did not have the privilege of having Calista as her daughter-inw.


    The butler arranged for someone to send her home, and Calista did not refuse this offer since she didn''t have any money on her. Wasn''t that interesting - who would have thought the eldest daughter of the Staffords did not have a single penny to her name? Any money she had was from her grandparents when she was a child. She used very little and saved up as much as she could.


    But in the end she used up all her savings to install the security rm.


    Her father never bothered himself with financial matters, and her stepmother obviously did not give her any money. Everything that she used in school were paid for in advance, and even her clothes were low quality items bought by her stepmother, and they all made her look fat and ugly. She went to school with her sister and they carried the same surname, but nobody knew they were sisters because the difference was just too great. Her father even thought she fancied those clothes, thinking she preferred this conservative look. Whenever Calista had to attend parties, her stepmother would bother dolling her up only for the sake of her own image. Her father would always say that she should wear such pretty clothes more often because she looked nice on them.


    She always remained silent, because she never had such clothes to wear. The fancy dresses she wore to parties were ''on loan'' from her younger sister, but she couldn''t bring herself to say so, and she didn''t dare to say so.


    Sitting in the Fairchild family''s luxurious car, Calista looked out at the scenery outside, her heart heavy with thoughts. She had been given a second chance at life, so she must cherish this chance to live life independently and true to herself, and not be continually swayed or manipted by others. But first, she had to be financially independent.


    Money was necessary for her to carry out her ns...


    Soon, the car reached a small estate where many well-to-do families lived, and Calista got off at the main gate and walked to her house.


    She came to a beautiful European style bungalow that looked elegant and posh from the outside, but Calista knew how dark and evil it really was inside. She would rather live in that little wooden house on a mountain thane back and live here.


    But since the wooden house no longer existed, she had no choice but to return to this battlefield and win everything back.


    Calista had a strange smile on her face, and the maid who opened the door felt her hair standing on end.


    ""El...Ms. Calista."


    Lilian, the maid who opened the door, stuttered because she usually just called Calista ''Miss'', and never called her something like ''Ms. Calista''.


    But today Calista looked different from before. In the past she always walked with her head low and had no opinions of her own. But today she walked in with her head up and her chest out, still wearing the modified cheongsam that the Fairchilds had provided for her the night before, and carried an air of elegance around her. The sharp eyes half hidden by her fringe nced over, which made one shudder. Calista did not stop for even a moment as Lilian addressed her. She walked straight into the house and as expected, Quincy was already waiting for her.


    The night before, Quincy hade back home and almost immediately pretended to identally break the lock of the wooden box in front of her father, thinking that her father would probably allow her to take one or two pieces of jewelry. What she did not expect was that the box was merely full of books!


    Those books were all out-of-print books, so when her father saw them he immediately kept them away, and she wasn''t even able to tear them in frustration! She was going to let this anger out on Calista!


    It was difficult for her to lose her temper in front of her father the night before while they were out, but today he wasn''ting home, so she was ready to see how outrageous this useless sister of hers was going to get!


    "Oh wow, you actually remembered toe home! I thought you were having so much fun out there, you weren''ting back anymore!" Quincy stood in Calista''s way, her expression provoking. This was her real self- the mature and kind personality was just for show. Calista looked at her and smiled. "Looks like you haven''t learnt your lesson fromst night."


    The moment she mentioned the night before, Quincy started shaking with anger.


    "You little sl*t, you can really act huh! I''m sure those two guys weren''t decent guys at all. Do you dare to say that nothing happened between three of you during that long period of time?"


    Calista raised an eyebrow and said calmly, "Now that you mention them...I was just wondering, there was no enmity between us, why do you think they purposely looked for me? Why don''t I ask Mrs. Fairchild to help me pressure them into saying the reason they did this? What do you think?" Quincy''s angry and reddened face instantly turned white.


    She hadn''t thought of this! The night before she had thought that since the two of them were arrested for murder, regardless of whether they were put to death or jailed for life, they no longer had anything to do with her. But she had forgotten that Calista would continue to try to prove her innocence.


    What if Calista really got the Fairchilds to pressure them into confessing and they admitted that she instigated them?


    When she thought of this possibility, Quincy suddenly became anxious and shouted, "You little slut, don''t you think you''ve been embarrassing enough?"Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    She tried to maintain eye contact with Calista, but her eyes were full of panic. "You''d better not spout nonsense, otherwise I''ll make sure to teach you a lesson!"


    "Teach me a lesson?"


    Calista suddenly drew nearer with an aura so oppressive, Quincy couldn''t help but take a step back, but Calista grabbed her by the cor.


    "If I were you, I would be super antsy by now. After all, Mrs. Fairchild said that she would get to the bottom of this matter, so I don''t know what she''ll hear from these two. She might find out who is this evil person who is trying to harm me!"

 Chapter 13 The First Strike Back

    Calista finished talking and loosed her grip. Quincy felt her legs go weak and she copsed onto the floor.


    Her face was all white, and when she looked back up at Calista, she suddenly felt fear in her heart.


    When she thought about the police and what the Fairchilds could do, she became terribly anxious and didn''t say any more, instead escaping up the stairs.


    Calista originally intended to go back to her own room, but then she suddenly smelled something delicious in the kitchen and realized that she hadn''t eaten much at Fairchild Manor earlier, plus she went through so much the night before and she was starving now. She made a turn towards the kitchen and saw two maids preparing snacks for tea.


    "I''m hungry." Calista leaned against the door and suddenly spoke, startling the two maids who were chatting with each other. She didn''t wait for their response and continued, "Prepare some food and send it to my room."


    Quincy had told all the servants to leave the living room earlier, so nobody saw how Calista treated Quincy earlier. So when they heard her give instructions like this, they all thought she had gone mad.


    Unfortunately she turned and left before they could even react, and they missed their chance to mock her.


    One of the maids threw her gloves on the kitchen top and said angrily, "Can''t she see that we''re very busy? Does she really think she''s the Ms. Calista now?"


    The older maid replied, "What does it matter? Isn''t there a bit of food leftover from lunch? Just pour a bit of soy sauce on it and send it upstairs. She eats anything anyway."


    She said this mockingly, because Calista of the past never dared to be picky about her food.


    Of course Calista had no idea what they were talking about downstairs because she was looking at herself in the mirror, feeling rather strange.


    She was still young and tender at eighteen, and even though her thick fringe covered half her face, she still looked fairly sweet.


    Shebed all her hair back and tied it into a high ponytail, revealing her clean forehead and exquisite eyes.


    Looking back at the transformed youngdy in the mirror, sheughed to herself, and thought that she didn''t look too bad at all.


    She used to really hate this straight cut fringe because it got into her eyes, but she didn''t dare to change her hairstyle because her stepmother had said that it looked nice on her. But did it really look nice? Yelena was just afraid that Calista would steal the limelight from Quincy.


    Just then, someone knocked on the door. When Calista opened the door, there was nobody outside, but there was half a bowl of leftover pasta with some baked beans and tomato sauce left on the floor, and nothing else.


    She couldn''t help butugh piteously at herself. What sort of life did she use to lead, she thought, a life where she couldn''t even get to eat warm food.


    Everybody said the school canteen food was awful, but she thought it was deliciouspared to the terrible things she ate at home. When her father wasn''t home, she wasn''t even allowed to sit at the table. The things she had to eat in a dark corner were possibly even worse than what the security guard''s dog ate!


    If it were her old self, she would have happily eaten everything because she was hungry. But now she knew that if she ate this without saying a word, what she would get in return was not the reputation of being humble and content, instead she would be mocked at for being lowly and desperate!


    She picked up the bowl and went downstairs and saw that the living room was filled with delicious treats and a fresh cup of Ceylon tea. It seemed like Yelena had just returned home and was all dressed up, anxiously waiting for someone to arrive.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    The servants pretended not to see Calista and continued to mind their own business. Calista held up the bowl of food in her hands and walked right up to Yelena.


    Yelena was anxiously trying to settle matters for her daughter! Earlier Quincy had phoned her and said the Fairchilds would continue to investigate what happened the night before and would definitely force the two men to tell the truth. Yelena was nearly driven mad with worries, so she had invited someone who could help to have cups of tea at her house.


    Seeing Calista appear in front of her at this time made her so furious!


    Calista is lucky that I don''t kill her. How dare she appear in front of me so boldly? Does she think she is still in the Fairchilds'' house?


    Yelena raised a finely plucked eyebrow andughed coldly, "Oh look who we have here, isn''t this the Ms. Calista of the Staffords? You were so amazingst night! Why, are you here to continue putting on this cool act?"


    Suddenly she realized that Calista hadbed her fringe up, and was still wearingst night''s dress from the Fairchilds. She lookedpletely different and Yelena''s expression changed.


    "Who allowed you tob all your hair up! You''re dressed so provocatively at such a young age, who are you trying to seduce huh?"


    Calista stood by the sofa and listened to her calmly. Yelena always behaved very differently at home from what she was in public, and Calista had heard things way worse than this when she was younger.


    Calistaughed as she turned the bowl in her hands. "Mrs. Fairchild, is my father on the verge of bankruptcy? I''m the Ms. Calista of the Stafford family and I have to eat this sort of cr*p? If we''re really so poor, then we shouldn''t hire so many servants to pretend we''re still rich, just fire some of them."


    Her sarcastic tone of voice shocked the servants busying themselves in the living room. But none of them panicked because in this house, Calista''s words were never taken seriously.


    Yelena saw that Calista ignored her words and became even angrier. But when she saw the food in Calista''s bowl, her mood improved instantly. "Why? Can''t eat this? There are many out there with no food to eat you know? Who are you? You''re lucky to even have food to eat, and you still want to be picky?"


    Yelena''s cheekbones were very high and they made her look mean when she smiled.


    "At the end of the day you''re an uncultured swine! So you think you''ve got wings to fly now huh? Even if you don''t want to eat this, you have to eat it! Otherwise forget about having food to eat from now on!"


    Calista looked at all the servants standing by the side watching this show and all the delicious food on the coffee table, and suddenly she felt like challenging her stepmother.


    "What if I refuse?"


    Refuse?


    Yelena was stunned for a moment, but then her carefully made-up face immediately turned threatening.


    "You little punk! You''ve grown wings and really want to fly huh? Zoya! Lilian! Ms. Calista here refuses to eat! Shove the food down her throat right now!"


    The two maids mentioned were more than happy to do this - Calista was behaving weirdly today, and they were already annoyed. This was their chance to teach her a lesson, see if she still dared to talk about firing them! "No need." Calista unexpectedly stopped them.


    Yelena thought that Calista was finally scared, and smiled knowingly. She knew it, no matter how much Calista had changed, deep down she was still a useless coward!


    So she sat down and crossed her legs, sneering, "Then eat it now! Eat it here in front of me! After you finish you''d better lick the bowl clean and make sure you don''t leave a single strand of pasta behind! Otherwise forget about eating anymore!" Calista didn''t look the slightest bit angry when she heard this, and asked gently, "It''s too much for me, what do I do if I can''t finish it?"


    Before Yelena could react, Calista reached out and dumped the contents of the bowl on Yelena''s head.


    She cackled spitefully and said, "So...please eat it for me, Mrs. Stafford."


    "ARGHHHHH!"


    The pasta and sauce got all over Yelena. She jumped up from her chair and screeched, "Calista! Have you lost your mind?!"

 Chapter 14 The Cousin Of Quincy

    Calista took one step back and dodged Yelena''s attempt to p her, responding innocently, "I just didn''t want the food to go to waste."


    "ARGHHHHHH! You disgusting child! Why don''t you just die!"


    Yelena then started screaming at the servants. "Are you all blind? This stupid girl has gone insane! Tie her up now!"


    The servants suddenly sprang into action and quickly made a grab for Calista, but they had all forgotten that Calista was very strong. Calista''s grandfather wanted her to learn the Energy Needle technique that was passed down from generation to generation of the Staffords, so he made her train her Energy that would help in learning this technique. She trained her Energy every day and became very strong as a result.


    When she saw theming, Calista turned the marble coffee table over with just one kick. "Let''s see who dares to touch me!"


    The ss shattered all over the floor, making everyone present gasp in shock. Yelena stared at Calista with huge eyes as if she didn''t know who she was, wondering if she was possessed!


    Most of the others had the same thoughts as Yelena, but Calista didn''t wait for them to react. She stood in the middle of the living room and continued speaking with a smile, "Mrs. Stafford, don''t forget, Quincy is still waiting for me to write the thesis that will qualify her for that college! The previous two theses that got awards were all written by me and this is thest one needed, or would you rather I go on strike this time?" Yelena was so furious, her eyes nearly falling out of her head. She never expected Calista to turn around and ckmail her!


    Calista found her face smeared with sauce so hrious, she continuedughing and said, "Well you could tie me up, or even kill me, but I guarantee you - if you touch a single hair of mine, I won''t write thatst thesis. Don''t you know how capable that daughter of yours really is? Are you sure you want to fight me?"


    Yelena wanted to make another move but stopped herself when she thought about what Calista said. It was difficult to guarantee a space at the college she wanted to send Quincy to, and so she really did not dare to touch Calista.


    Calista heard the sound of a car driving in and gave a creepy smile.


    "You haven''t settledst night''s matter right? Your guest is here, and you''re going to receive him looking like this?"


    She exerted an invisible pressure with every word, and there was something frightening in the way she smiled. Yelena felt her heart was about to stop and found herself unable to say anymore to her.


    She screeched at the servants, "Hurry up and clear the ce! My guest is here!"


    Settling what happened the night before was the most urgent matter at hand, she woulde back at Calistater! She red onest time at Calista, then turned and went upstairs to change.


    The servants exchanged nces, then scrambled to tidy up the ce.


    This was the first time they saw Calista dare to stand up to Yelena in all their years of employment!


    Calista smiled as she had guessed who would being. So she took a seat and waited to ruin this meeting.


    The servants quickly brought in a new coffee table and a new pot of coffee.


    Wyatt Langley came in to see a youngdy with a high ponytail and elegant cheongsam, quietly seated on the white sofa. Her features were exquisite and gave off a gentle air, likedies in old Chanaean paintings were portrayed. Yet in this gentle air there was a prickly sort of atmosphere, and thisdy was not as easily bullied as she seemed. It was difficult to imagine someone gentle yet prickly at the same time.


    When she heard himing in, Calista did not get up to receive him, but instead just nced over. Wyatt was surprised to find that she had a very special pair of eyes, each pupil sparkled and was full of mystery, so beautiful he nearly stopped breathing. Yet at the same time he felt a strange feeling in his chest and thought, if only her stare wasn''t so cold.


    Calista guessed it right - if that mother and daughter pair needed someone to shut those two men up, Wyatt would be their best bet.


    "Have a seat."


    Calista smiled at him, but he just stood there frozen, as if he didn''t know who she was, so she had no choice but to introduce herself, "I''m Calista. Judging from your expression, you don''t remember me huh?"


    Wyatt was stunned by how beautiful her smile was, then suddenly he realized what she just said. Calista? She was Calista?


    Wyatt furrowed his brow subconsciously.


    He was Quincy''s cousin on Yelena''s side of the family, so naturally he had seen Calista before.


    The Langleys were a very well-to-do family, and even though they were not as wealthy as the Fairchilds, they were still one of the top families. This sort of family would never have allowed their daughter to marry into the Stafford family. But Yelena was an illegitimate daughter of the Langleys, so on the contrary, she had married up.


    Wyatt was a legitimate heir of the Langleys, so by right, these two should not have had any dealings with one another.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    But Yelena was very good at gaining others'' favor, so even though she was born in such despised circumstances, she made sure to make herself as small and humble as possible in front of the Lins. Quincy was also an excellent sweet talker, always calling Wyatt her cousin like she was calling an elder brother, and since Wyatt didn''t have a younger sister, he was more than happy to treat her like a real younger sister since she always seemed so lovely.


    Wyatt had heard many stories from Quincy about how Calista always bullied her since they were young, and he had seen her from afar several times, and thought that this girl was always very quiet and very rude. But this time she seemed like apletely different person!


    Wyatt had a curious look on his face - he worked for the police, and was extra wary when he came across anything suspicious, it was just part and parcel of his job. "So it''s you..."


    His attitude quickly turned cold and formal, "Where''s my aunt? And Quincy?"


    Calista poured him a cup of tea. The entire living room only had two of them, and it was very quiet.


    "They suddenly have something on, so they left me here to entertain you. Well, Officer Langley, the Fairchilds sent two murder suspects to your stationst night, right?"


    The moment she mentioned his work, Wyatt immediately put up his guard and his eyes became alert. "That case involves several parties and is in the midst of investigation, why do you ask?"


    Calista smiled, "Don''t be so nervous."


    She took a sip of tea and continued with ease, "Their ugly deeds were uncoveredst night because I overheard them talking about what they did and I exposed them in front of everyone. Mrs. Fairchild didn''t let me go to the police station in order to protect me, but I thought I should let you know."


    Wyatt''s sharp features suddenly turned serious, "You mean you heard it with your own ears?"


    Calista nodded.


    But Wyattughed coldly in reply, "I don''t understand why they would suddenly talk about their crimes, and then you happened to overhear it? What is even more puzzling is why the Fairchilds would hide you away when you''re supposedly the main witness." "That''s because...they were going to rape me when it happened."


    Calista''s calm voice shocked Wyatt, so she smiled and said, "They didn''t get their way, To protect my reputation, I will not testify. Since you''ve found the body, it doesn''t matter whether I testify or not. The bigger problem is, why did those two men choose me as their victim?"


    A light briefly shed through her eyes. "This is why she called you over today. If she needed someone to shut those two up, you''d be the right person to call."


    Wyatt immediately understood what she was implying. "Are you trying to say my aunt hired them to harm you?"

 Chapter 15 A Human Head Discovered

    He snorted when Calista nodded her head in response, thinking that this girl was indeed the way his aunt had described - apulsive liar!


    "Tell me, why do you think she would do such a thing? Besides, the two men have plenty of money and influence, what would Aunt Yelena bribe them with?"


    Calista sighed quietly, "Of course she has nothing to offer them, but what about my lovely sister? If money doesn''t work, what about sex?"


    "Utter nonsense!"


    Wyatt stood up with a deep frown on his face, disagreeing with Calista.


    "Ms. Stafford, I know you have issues with Aunt Yelena, after all it is difficult for many children to ept a stepmother. But Quincy is only seventeen! As her elder sister, how could you say something like that!" What does she mean by using sex, he thought to himself. Does Calista think that Quincy could be so scheming at such a young age that she''s learnt how to use her body to exchange for what she wants? Calista merely blinked - she had anticipated that Wyatt would be unhappy to hear any of this.


    "You can go and interrogate those two and see if I''m telling the truth or not. They''re currently detained at your station, right?"


    "You..." Wyatt hesitated.


    "Since you hesitated, it means that subconsciously you do believe my words, but because you''re very attached to Quincy, your first reaction is to doubt me. I have to say, your army training makes you have a pretty urate intuition..." Calista was smiling as she said this, and even though it was apliment, it sounded more like sarcasm!


    Wyatt furrowed his brows even harder.


    He didn''t think that Calista would simply use anyone, but then he also refused to believe that Quincy was that sort of person!


    He decided not to continue the conversation and turned to leave.


    "Wait up," Calista called out to him.


    Wyatt ignored her and continued walking. He was already prejudiced against Calista, so he wasn''t going to listen to her tell tall tales.


    But he was useful to Calista, and there was no way she was going to let him leave just like that.


    "Officer Langley, regarding the murder case involving a headless female corpse that happened a month ago - no leads yet, right?" Calista suddenly said these shocking words as she took a sip of tea and smiled confidently.


    "I have some clues that could help you, are you interested?"


    Wyatt suddenly stopped in his tracks.


    After a few moments he turned around, frowning, and coldly warned her, "Ms. Stafford, giving false leads is considered obstruction of justice, and you can be legally charged for doing this."


    Calista tried her best not tough and stood up. "Well I can''t convince you with my words, but I could show you. I''m sure Officer Langley is a very professional man, and you wouldn''t ignore the chance of getting your hands on evidence because of your own personal prejudice, right?"


    Wyatt felt convinced for the first time, especially as Calista brushed past him. He was unable to think of any counter argument, and could only follow her out.


    That case didn''t belong to him, but he was very curious to see what the Ms. Calista of the Staffords was trying to do.


    Their conversation was not very long, so by the time Yelena had calmed down from the fright earlier and changed her clothes to meet Wyatt, the servants told her he had gone out with Calista!


    When she heard that they had gone out together, Yelena scrambled to call Wyatt, only to find that he had turned off his cell phone!


    In the car, Wyatt took back his phone with some annoyance.


    "Why did you turn off my phone? We have to be contactable around the clock."


    Calista simply replied, "The ce we''re going to has a signal detector, so if you bring anything that gives out a signal, the murderer will know."


    Wyatt couldn''t understand, why did Calista seem to know exactly who the murderer was? Was she serious? Or was she faking it?


    He wondered if Calista had some sort of schizophrenia, and suddenly started regrettinging out with her.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    "Alright, here we are, stop the car." Wyatt stopped the car and realized that they had reached the victim''s house. Goodness, Wyatt thought to himself, even if Calista wants to trick me she should at least do a bit of homework.


    He saw that Calista had already gotten out of the car, so he put a serious face back on, loaded his gun quickly and caught up with her.


    The two of them looked very conspicuous as they walked along this old street that had vegetable sellers on both sides of the road, the ground all wet, and the air even carried a fishy smell.


    Wyatt was used toing to such ces due to his work, but he was surprised that Calista just kept walking even though her white high-heeled shoes were dirty and stained. She looked straight ahead and kept walking as if she had walked down this road countless times.


    She didn''t seem bothered by the stares of the people as she walked down the small alley as if she were walking down the corridor of her luxurious pce, exuding elegance and grace. It was little wonder that some of the chatter had died down as everyone was staring at her as she walked past them.


    ""What is it?"


    When she saw that Wyatt was no longer beside her, Calista turned around. The way she looked with her sparkling eyes can take people''s breath away.


    Wyatt was stunned for a few moments, then he suppressed the strange feeling in his heart and followed her upstairs.


    The victim was a fifty year olddy, and most people did not get along with her because of her unfriendly personality, especially her children, who seemed to treat her like an enemy. The crime scene was very neat and tidy, with no valuables missing, so the police suspected that this was done by someone familiar to the victim, and possibly by someone who had been offended by her.


    Wyatt initially thought Calista was headed for the victim''s home and was about to tell her that the unit had already been sealed off by the police, but then Calista turned and headed for the unit one floor below the victim''s unit.


    She knocked on the door and made Wyatt panic. This action might alert the murderer!


    Before he could say anything, Calista bent down and stuck her hair pin into something, causing Wyatt to respond in shock, "What are you doing? Are you trying to break into someone else''s private property?" He red at her as if she were a criminal. With those words, Calista had managed to pick the lock sessfully.


    Wyatt''s eyes went wide - was this the eldest daughter of the Staffords or a burr?


    Calista entered the house, so he clenched his teeth and went in as well, to find that this was only a regr bachelor apartment, and couldn''t understand what this crazy Calista was up to!


    Calista looked around for a while, then pushed an ordinary bookshelf to the floor.


    The loud crash of the shelf made Wyatt really angry now, and he couldn''t help but shout, "Calista, are you nuts? This is someone else''s house!"


    Before he could finish speaking, he heard a tearing sound and realized Calista had torn off the wallpaper on the wall behind the shelf, revealing a newly stered wall face.


    "If I tell you the head of the corpse is here, will you believe me?"


    Wyatt frowned, "I think you need a psychiatrist! Come with me!"


    He grabbed Calista''s hand, but she was stronger than him and pushed him away easily. Her eyesnded on a small hammer in the toolbox in a corner, taking up the hammer, she smashed it into the wall she had just revealed. This made Wyatt panic even more.


    "Have you gone mad? This is not just trespassing, it''s also willful damage to private property!"


    He couldn''t continue talking because the hard hit of the hammer had caused some pieces of the wall to fall to the floor, revealing a white package that had been wrapped with a thickyer of food wrap.

 Chapter 16 Fix Your Attitude

    Calista breathed a sigh of relief and finally smiled. "Do you see it, Officer Langley?"


    Just in case he wasn''t able to see it clearly, she whacked the wall one more time while still facing Wyatt.


    The bang of the hammer also struck Wyatt''s heart!


    Even more of the wall crumbled and exposed what was inside. It was a human head!


    Calista saw that Wyatt was inplete shock, so she grinned widely and said with a naughty voice, "I lied to you just now, there''s no signal detector here, so you can turn on your phone and call your colleagues, Officer Langley." Wyatt quickly turned on his phone and saw that he had a bunch of missed calls and texts from his aunt and Quincy.


    Wyatt suddenly understood why Calista lied to him. If he had picked up his aunt''s call while driving here, he would probably have turned back instead ofing here.


    Wyatt called the police with mixed feelings in his heart, then instead of calling his aunt back, he asked Calista, "How did you know who the murderer was? And how did you know this was exactly the ce where he hid the missing head?"


    Calista wasn''t going to tell him what happened in her previous life - back then, this murderer did not get caught after his first crime, and so he became bolder and bolder, killing more than ten others before finally getting arrested.


    When he was finally arrested, he had calmly recounted how he killed the first person on television.


    It was actually just an ident. He had gone upstairs at the same time as the victim, and the victim had shouted into the phone, "I have $400,000, but I''d rather die than give it to you!"


    So he thought of just stealing the money and broke into her house after the victim had gone marketing, but she unexpectedly returned soon after, and he killed her in a panic.


    She had bitten him before dying, and he was afraid the police might find some clues in her mouth, so he chopped her head off and hid it in his own house for the next ten years.


    This murderer was actually a forensic doctor''s assistant, so in order to hide his motive, he used his professional knowledge to clean up the murder scene and did not touch a single cent. After that he wasn''t caught, so he suddenly realized that it wasn''t so hard to kill someone after all.


    He said that when he realized this, he also realized he was losing control of himself, and he always wished someone would stop him as he continued killing others over the next ten years.


    Calista smiled and thought, that''s why I''m here, I''m here to stop him.


    "A little girl told me all this. I don''t know why she wanted to tell me, and I don''t know where she is either. I''ll say the same thingter when they take my statement down."


    Wyatt clenched his teeth in anger, "Don''t you know that I can arrest you for being an aplice?"


    Calista smiled confidently, "No you won''t."


    "On what grounds..." Before Wyatt could finish speaking, his phone rang and his face immediately changed after the phone call.


    "The owner of this unit is Carson Zabinski, a forensic doctor''s assistant. But he''s not gone to work for two days, which means he''s escaped!" He suddenly turned to ask Calista seriously, "Do you know where he''s gone?"


    Calista narrowed her eyes and thought for a while before calmly saying, "He...hmmm... perhaps he''s found that murdering people is quite fun, and he''s now at the next victim''s house?"


    "CALISTA!" Wyatt raised his voice. "Someone''s life is at stake here, can you please be more serious!"


    Calista stopped smiling, and her small and delicate face turned cold instantly. "Since you know that someone''s life is at stake, and you need information from me, then you''d better fix that attitude of yours!"N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Her sharp re made Wyatt take a step back, but Calista didn''t bother about his reaction, instead she tried to recall what happened back then.


    She remembered that after Carson had killed his first victim, hemitted a crime again less than one monthter, and the actual date was supposed to be tomorrow. But now that he had gone missing for two days, the only exnation was that he had tortured the victim for two days in her house before killing her on the third day.


    This time she was around, so she wasn''t going to let a second murder happen!


    "I don''t know exactly where he is," Calista continued without changing her expression. "But I know how to find him. But you have to believe my words first. For starters, don''t look at me like that, Officer Langley."


    Wyatt pursed his lips, as if he was still considering if she was telling the truth.


    But Calista knew the next victim was awaiting rescue and she had no time to waste. She asked directly, "You should have two phones, right?"


    Wyatt took a moment to react, then passed his personal phone to her. Before passing it to her, he programmed the speed dial function to call his work phone, so if Calista discovered anything, she could press the button ''1'' and be able to contact him immediately. Calista was very satisfied that he finally understood they were racing against time, so she took the phone and said with a smile, "You can get the police to clean this ce up, in case Carsones back and you can arrest him here. I might call you anytime, you''d better make sure you can get to the ce where I am as soon as possible." Wyatt nodded. He had a location tracker in his personal phone, but he didn''t mention this.


    Calista stuck out her delicate hand and waved it in front of him. "Well, give me some money to take a cab!"


    Wyatt passed his entire wallet to her, and even though he still felt that this whole situation was very strange, he said, "I don''t know what you''re going to do but...be careful."


    Calista smiled and turned to leave. In no time the police had surrounded the area, but Calista had already boarded a cab towards another ce. "To Royal Clouds Residences, please."


    Calista saw the luxury apartments in the distance, and a light shed in her eyes. She was d for her photographic memory that remembered every single tiny detail.


    But what she did not expect to see after she got off was a limousine parked at the gate of the estate. She looked through the windows and was shocked that Kallum was in the car, his handsome face outshining many celebrities.


    She opened her eyes wide and asked, "What are you doing here?"


    In the car, Kallum nted his eyes at her and wondered with a frown, why couldn''t he get rid of this woman? "I''m the one who should be asking you that. Did you follow me?"


    Calista snorted in reply. Just then a man who looked like a bodyguard walked over and told Kallum, "Mr. Kallum, Ava isn''t at home, and there''s no sign of a break in. There''s a note pasted on the door though, and it looks like it was written in a hurry. It says that she''s gone back to her hometown for a while and will be back in a few days.


    Kallum furrowed his brows, then quickly said, "Call the police. Ava is not the kind of person who would go missing like this. Call her family..."


    "She''s still here!" Calista suddenly interrupted Kallum.


    Calista looked at him with a look of wonder on her face, "So Ava is yourpany''s head secretary?"


    Back then the news had released the names of all the victims, and did include some information on Ava. The report only said that she was a high flying career woman, but did not state whichpany he worked for. She''s Kallum''s head secretary, what a small world, she thought.

 Chapter 17 Give Me A Few Minutes To Explain

    Kallum saw that she was still standing there and even knew Ava''s name, and he couldn''t help but snort, "And what''s that got to do with you? You seem to know the people around me very well huh."


    His tone of voice was demeaning, but Calista had no time to argue with him. She jumped over the car and ran towards the apartments - saving someone''s life was more important!


    She took a while to locate the right block and go upstairs. She managed to find Ava''s unit and knocked on the door and there was no answer.


    It can''t be that nobody''s here, she thought. She was very sure that Ava had died in her own house. Suddenly she remembered the news had also shown photos of where she died. She had been killed in a very small space, so it was possible that there was a secret room in Ava''s house!


    Ava was the head secretary of a multinationalpany, and it wasn''t safe to just leave documents lying around in her house, so it made sense for her to have a secret room of sorts for this purpose.


    When Calista thought about this, she became calm because she knew that the murderer might be looking at her right now from behind the door. "Carson, I know you''re inside."


    Her voice was not very loud and this door was fairly soundproof, but he should have been able to hear her.


    Calista wasn''t able to pry open the heavy door that was locked electronically, so the only way was to get someone to open it from the inside.


    There was no sounding from inside, but Calista did not be anxious and continued calmly, "The police have already surrounded your house and found the head you hid in the wall. I was the one who called the police, and I''ve been following you. So now I''m very sure you''re inside, are you sure you don''t want to let me in?"


    She took out her phone that was actually not turned on, and said, "I''vee by myself and I just want to talk to you one on one. Or do you really want me to call the police?"


    There was a soft clicking sound as the door unlocked and opened.


    Calista''s heart started pounding. She pushed the door the furthest it could go and saw that the doorway waspletely empty. She took a deep breath and continued walking, and after a few steps, she felt that something was not right.


    She immediately turned back but a shadowy figure suddenly jumped down from somewhere and came charging at her with a knife! This person had kept himself suspended above the door with the help of the narrow doorway walls, and was going to kill her without letting her say anything!


    There was no time for Calista to analyze this situation and she could only use her elbow to block the attack. She was mentally prepared to be hurt, but she was also prepared to return the attack tenfold!


    But she never felt the pain she had anticipated, because someone came in and pulled her out of harm''s way in an instant. Then another person rushed in and kicked Carson to the floor.


    ng! The bloodied kitchen knife ttered onto the floor. Carson didn''t expect that Calista had note by herself! He quickly got back on his feet and tried grabbing at someone to hold him hostage, but he was no match for this professional top level bodyguard. With just a few moves, the bodyguard had pressed Carson firmly against the floor and asked worriedly, "Mr. Kallum! Are you alright? You''re hurt!"


    Calista stared at Kallum in shock. She thought he had already left, so why was he here? And more importantly, why did he save her?


    Kallum frowned and pushed her away, saying with some irritation in his voice, "I''m fine."


    Then he turned his attention to the man on the floor and demanded an answer from Carson, "Why are you looking for Ava?"


    Kallum could think of a million terrible reasons why this man could have wanted to attack his secretary and red at him murderously.


    At this point Carson had not yet be the cold blooded serial killer who had killed more than ten victims in previous life, so he was terrified by Kallum''s re and stuttered in reply, "She...she''s from the same vige as me, but she''s so sessful now and pretends not to know me..."


    Kallum had not thought that the reason was so simple - what a waste of his time!


    "Send him straight to the police! And call an ambnce!"


    "Got it, Mr. Kallum!"


    Calista had never imagined that the bloody battle she was prepared to fight was settled so easily because of Kallum''s interference.


    Color had drained from her face, but Kallum had gone looking for Ava in the room.


    There was a secret room in the house as Calista had thought, and Ava was inside. But her face was all pale and she was unconscious.


    Kallum narrowed his eyes. If he hadn''t followed Calista upstairs today, Ava would have been found dead here the next day.


    How was Calista rted to Ava? Why did she know who the murderer was? Also, how did she be such a different person?


    He told himself that he wasn''t curious about her, but he was afraid that this change might hurt his mother, and that was an unforgivable crime!


    Calista walked over as well and saw that Ava was still alive, and breathed a sigh of relief.


    She looked at Kallum and saw that his wound was still bleeding, so she hesitated before saying, "I''ll help to dress your wound..."


    ""No need."


    He told himself that he saved her earlier because a man should not allow a woman to get hurt and he was sticking to this principle, not because he had changed his opinion about this woman!


    Calista suddenly scoffed at herself, her heart feeling bitter and thinking she must be nuts to care about whether Kallum was dead or alive!


    The police came in no time, and because it involved his employee, Kallum had to go to the police station as well. With him around, Calista was treated especially well. When she saw Wyatt, she returned his wallet to him.


    Wyatt hesitated, then asked with mixed feelings, "You really have nothing to do with this case?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    He still felt that she must be connected somehow, otherwise how could she have found the killer so quickly?


    Calistaughed bitterly and replied, "Ask me again when you''re not prejudiced against me anymore."


    Wyatt frowned and said loudly, "I''m not biased, it''s a logical assumption."


    Logical assumption?


    Calista was amused by this and slowly walked closer to him, and said in a low voice, "Then why don''t you question the murderer first then ask me huh? Officer Langley!!"


    After that she went to the room down the corridor to get her statement recorded, and Kallum was already inside. The junior officer taking their statements had no idea that he had a big shot in the room and excused himself to take a phone call, then sheepishly said he had to attend to something else, and a colleague woulde and take over.


    Kallum frowned, but before he could say anything, Calista spoke up, "Sure, go ahead and do what you need to do."


    The officer apologized again before leaving and closed the door behind him, leaving the room with only Kallum and Calista inside.


    The air was very tense, making it hard to breathe.


    Kallum''s arm was already bandaged, and he was very unwilling to stay in the same room with Calista, much less wait here awkwardly. So he stood up to go back to the office. After all, if he didn''t want to give a statement, nobody would dare to force him to. "Wait, Mr. Kallum," Calista suddenly called out after him.


    Even though he was so bent on leaving just a few moments ago, he still stopped at the door with his back still facing Calista.


    "I know you hate me. But please give me a few minutes to say a few words, and I promise you that once everything has been cleared up, I won''t bother you again."

 Chapter 18 The Past Like A Needle

    Kallum tilted his head slightly, his deep set eyes bright and sharp, and even though there was irritation on his face, he still let go of the door handle in his hands. For some reason, even though Kallum was willing to listen to her calmly, she suddenly felt this bitterness in her heart.


    "Firstly, the biggest reason why you hate me is because you were drugged about five months ago, right?"


    Calista remained seated at the desk and spoke calmly. She was facing Kallum, but did not look at him.


    Kallum considered this a taint on his life and started to frown, but before he could respond, Calista looked up and said, "It wasn''t me."


    The meaning of her words were very in, and Kallum suddenly found himself believing her.


    But no, how could he believe this scheming woman?


    "If it wasn''t you, then who else could it be?"


    Calista shook her head at this expected answer. She knew Kallum wouldn''t believe her based on just one sentence.


    "That night during the cruise party, you drank the wine that I gave you. But I actually only wanted to chat with you, I didn''t know that your drink was drugged."


    Kallum didn''t like seeing her back then either, and only started to hate seeing her after what happened that night.


    Kallumughed coldly, thinking he must be nuts for staying and listening to her spout nonsense!


    Calista suddenly turned the conversation and said, "Last night I used my phone to hit one of my attackers and he threw it out of the window. Later when you go back, your servants should be able to find it."


    When she mentioned how she had narrowly escaped the night before, Kallum swallowed the sarcastic words that were almost out of his mouth. After all she did suffer a terrible scare the night before, which was probably the reason why her personality had turned a hundred and eighty degrees and she was saying these things to him now.


    Calista continued, "Since I do research on medical science, sometimes an idea just popped up in my mind, so I always keep a small voice recorder on my cell phone key chain."


    Kallum finally turned around, because he figured that Calista wouldn''t mention a voice recorder for nothing.


    "Before the party, Mirabelle came to look for me and said she wanted me to help her create an aphrodisiac that wouldn''t do any harm to the body."


    When he heard Mirabelle''s name, Kallum''s eyebrow twitched and he was ready to berate her but Calista continued without giving him a chance, "But because nobody had ever asked me to do something like that, I became afraid and I recorded the conversation." Calistaughed bitterly, remembering how her life waspletely destroyed the night before in her previous life.


    The broken phone and the voice recorder were never found in her previous life, but this time she should still be able to find these items in time.


    Initially she didn''t want to talk about this since she had decided to sever ties with Kallum, but she changed her mind.


    It didn''t matter how Kallum saw her, but why should she carry this reputation of being a shameless woman for the rest of her life?


    "That night, the wine I gave you was poured by Mirabelle. I saw that you started reacting strangely so I brought you to the room. I could see you were suffering the effects of some sort of drug and I didn''t want you to be embarrassed, and so I got everybody else out of the room and took out my acupuncture needles to try controlling the situation but you threw out my entire bag of needles. I saw that you were suffering and so I decided to just let you have sex with me." She recounted the night in a matter-of-fact tone, not changing despite the subject matter.


    "After that you went to investigate and found out that I had previously created this sort of drug and concluded this must be my evil n right? And why did you investigate in the first ce? Because Mirabelle told you something, didn''t she? You can go back and get someone to find that voice recorder, and it will exin everything."


    Kallum clenched his fist and his anger pushed the tension in the room to its limit. "So you intend to put the me on Mirabelle?"


    He snorted, "Mirabelle is such a pure hearted girl and you have the gall to smear her?"


    Such a pure hearted girl...


    Calistaughed, her heart bursting with bitterness, hatred, anger! Yet sheughed harder and harder.


    In this small room, the two of them were like standing at opposite ends of the same argument, refusing to agree nor give in. "So you''re going to insist I''m smearing her? I said there''s evidence but you still don''t believe me?" Calista''s smile grew colder and colder, to the point it was bone chilling.


    Kallum on the other hand became angrier and angrier, sarcastically responding, "So if we can''t find this voice recorder, are you going to say Mirabelle is the one who takes it away? Don''t forget, she''s on a performance tour right now and will only return after a month!" Calista didn''t know how to describe her feelings anymore. She was on the verge of breaking down and screaming uncontrobly from her anger, but she clenched her teeth and tried to remain calm. "Can you tell me why?"


    Her mesmerizing eyes continued to look dead straight at Kallum as she asked. "She''s your childhood friend, but so am I! I''ve even known you earlier than her! And as your fianc¨¦e no less! Why do you only believe her and not me?"C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    "Because she''s more innocent and kinder than you. You can never bepared to her," dered Kallum coldly as he opened the door to leave.


    At this point Calista finally burst from her rage.


    With a burst of energy she managed to push the door shut and mmed Kallum against the door. Angry that he had been pushed around like this, Kallum pushed her hands away and mmed her against the door instead. He was about to take a step back when Calista grabbed him tightly by the cor.


    "Let go!" He did not want to resort to hitting a woman.


    "No!"


    Calista was amazingly stubborn right now - she was truly different from before. In the past she would never had dared to talk like this to Kallum, much less treat him like this.


    "Let go!!" Kallum narrowed his eyes and tried to free himself, but he realized Calista was extremely strong, and he would have to injure her to break free from her grip.


    "D*mn it, what the hell do you want?" He punched the door right next to Calista''s ear.


    The overwhelming anger was about to eat Calista up.


    The two of them were only a few inches apart, and she looked up at him with a look in her eyes that he had never seen before.


    That deep pain and unwillingness to admit defeat in her eyes was like the look of a vengeful spirit, instantly chilling Kallum''s heart.


    "Tell me now! What is it that makes you treat me so differently from her! Tell me and I''ll let you go!"


    "Humph," Kallum scoffed and stopped struggling. Instead he pushed her against the door, and brought his face closer to her, making sure she heard every word he said. "Sure, since you don''t seem to know, I will help you remember why!"


    "Do you remember? When I was fourteen, the three of us secretly went to the bungalow in the countryside to y and I fell into the water. You were just next to the pool but because you were afraid of water, you just stood there and watched me drown! In thest second before I lost consciousness, all I remember was that weak and cowardly expression on your face! If it wasn''t for Mirabelle, I would have died! You tell me, why do I have a fianc¨¦e like you?"


    His words shocked Calista, and she looked back at him in horror.

 Chapter 19 Exposing Those Shameless Lies

    But he was not done yet. Kallum continued, "After being rescued I ran a very high fever! I was mostly delirious and it was also Mirabelle who took care of me! And you? Where did you go!"


    "In the middle of the night, Mirabelle walked several miles of mountain road to buy me medicine all by herself. But you? You were so scared you ran home by yourself! If it wasn''t for Mirabelle, I''d be dead long ago. And now you still dare to ask me why I treat her differently


    from you?!"


    "Haha, haha, HAHAHAHA!" Calista suddenly burst outughing.


    Her eyes immediately became bloodshot, but simply couldn''t stopughing. She wasughing so hard and at such a high pitch, it was as if she had gone crazy!


    Kallum was very angry when he said all that, but was confused at her reaction. "What are youughing at?"


    "Hahaha..." Calista was barely able to contain herughter, but she slowly loosened her grip on Kallum''s cor and herughter started to lower in pitch, and now she sounded like she was crying. So her love remained unrequited because of this, she thought. What a reason! "Back then, it is true I was afraid of the water and would rather die than jump in..." She looked up and started recounting what happened calmly. "But I saw that you had closed your eyes and was probably going to drown, so at the final moment I jumped in!" Kallum was stunned by this revtion.


    "I fought back my greatest fear in order to save you! You had already lost consciousness so you couldn''t see how I was trembling all over and nearly couldn''t get up! Then Mirabelle came back from picking flowers and seeing that you had fainted, she came over to help me."


    Kallum found it hard to believe what Calista said, because it waspletely different from what Mirabelle told him. Mirabelle told him that when she came back from picking flowers, Calista was still standing there paralyzed by fear, and she was the one who rescued him in time. Calista slowly calmed herself down, but she was still smiling because it was only now that she found out such a ridiculous thing had happened.


    "After that, you ran a fever, I ran a fever too! But there was no medicine nor cell phone signal in the countryside. Mirabelle said she was afraid of the dark and didn''t dare to walk outside by herself so it was ME! I was the one who walked several miles of mountain road with a fever! And in the rain! I walked to the nearest town to buy you medicine! After getting medicine, I took one pill and hailed a cab back to the bungalow. But because I was drenched in the rain, I fainted after passing the medicine to Mirabelle. By the time I woke up, I was in hospital because that kind cab driver had driven me to the hospital..."


    "After that Mirabelle told me that you had fainted and didn''t know how much I had suffered to save you. She even said that if you knew, you would feel guilty and sad, so I told her it''s just a small matter, don''t tell him..."


    Calista startedughing uncontrobly again.


    "Now I know...I told her not to tell you what happened, so she told you that she was the one who did all these things that I did! And then because of this you always protected her and distanced yourself from me....HAHAHA is there anything in the world funnier than this?" "Enough!" Kallum suddenly interrupted her, his eyes as sharp as knives. "I want proof! Do you have any proof to all you said?"


    "Proof?" Calista red as fiercely back at him. "Mirabelle said she saved you, did you ask her for proof?"


    "So you don''t have any proof..." Kallum said as he lowered his eyes, a little unsure of himself. "Proof? I have proof!" Calista had proof?


    "Do you still remember the medicine bottle? That small town was quite backward, so they gave the medicine in a small paper bag. But it was pouring outside and I was afraid the medicine might get wet, so I got the pharmacist to use an empty milk bottle to contain fever medication and antibiotics. I turned around too fast and fell down in my haste, and because my hands were around the bottle, the bottle itself didn''t break, but the mouth of the bottle cracked, do you remember?" Kallum''s eyes opened wide - of course he remembered!


    In fact he had asked why the medicine came in this sort of bottle, and Mirabelle exined that it was too humid in the countryside and she used this to keep the medicine dry.


    He didn''t think much about or suspected her response, but he did remember clearly that the mouth of the bottle had several hairline cracks.


    Calista startedughing again, but her eyes were bloodshot and looked frightening. She wasn''t even sure whether she wasughing at herself orughing at others. "....do you still need proof?" she asked in a hoarse voice.


    "I had dived into water, ran down mountain road, got drenched in the rain and fainted, and almost got pneumonia! If the hospital still keeps their old medical records you can confirm that I was warded that day."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    After she finished talking, the entire room was dead silent.


    The evidence she had provided didn''t really prove anything, but her expression was filled with such sorrow, as if her entire life had been a lie, and she was filled with hatred and indignance.


    Just then, someone knocked on the door behind Calista, startling both of them. "Sorry to interrupt, Officer Wang told me toe and take down your statements, can Ie in?"


    Upon hearing the voice, Calista suddenly threw her arms around Kallum''s neck and bit down on his lip!


    She bit him hard and his lip started bleeding.


    Kallum let out a small cry of pain but did not push her away. Her gaze was burning, and her kiss was even more intense than her! One kiss was enough to conquer him!


    Then he heard Calista''s low and cold voice, "This kiss is what you owe me! You owe me for an entire lifetime, but I don''t want you to repay me anymore..."


    Calista spoke slowly into his ear, with her lips stained with his blood, her eyes staring hard into distance so as to prevent her tears from falling.


    "From now on, you and I will go our separate ways. You can forget everything I just said. There''s no need to remember, there''s no need to prove anything. I wish you and Mirabelle eternal bliss!"


    Just as she finished saying what she wanted to say, the person outside opened the door, and got a shock when he saw Calista. Calista''s eyes were as frightening as a ghost''s!


    Calista didn''t even look at him and ran out, and because she looked so scary, the officer was too frightened to call out after her.


    Kallum remained standing in the room, still trying to sort out his thoughts. Even though Calista had not provided any hard evidence, the pain in her eyes seemed to be enough proof.


    He was young then, and since it was an ident, there was no real need to investigate anything, so he had always been nice to Mirabelle. But now Calista was telling him that he got the wrong person?


    The officer who just entered the room could also feel the strange tension and didn''t dare to open his mouth. He knew that this man in front of him was an important figure, and wasn''t sure if he should still take down his statement...


    By the time Calista ran out of the police station, it was already night time and it was starting to rain. She didn''t bother finding shelter because she felt that she really needed the rain to wake her up.


    In her previous life, she had gone to look for Mirabelle after that fateful night on the cruise, but Mirabelle denied having anything to do with this, saying that she wanted the aphrodisiac for her pet! She also said she didn''t know the wine was drugged, saying someone else must have done this and dragged her into it.


    Calista did not question her words since Mirabelle was a sweet and gentle girl, and it was also true that there were plenty of women who wanted to sleep with Kallum. But in the end, if it had not been Mirabelle''s betrayal, she wouldn''t have been captured by Quincy and sent to that research facility. Now she knew that Mirabelle''s concern for her was all a sham! Now she knew how scheming this woman really was!

 Chapter 20 Exposing The Hypocrisy Of Her Stepmother

    Now she knew she had gotten it wrong all this while, and Mirabelle was scheming beyond her imagination. She used such intelligent tactics - able to lie like this at a tender age of thirteen! She realized she wasgging far behind in this aspect.


    The raindrops continued to fall, drenching her hair.


    Her heart suddenly felt so cold - it was only two nights and a day into her reborn life, and she had seen how evil people could be, and it was truly a tough situation to be in.


    She lost to these schemers in her previous life because she was always a step toote. She was always toote to see these enemies'' true colors, and spent too much time on futile things.


    Her love for Kallum, her affection for her father, her friendship with Mirabelle - they were all in futility.


    But this time she wasn''t going to make the same mistakes. No matter how strong her enemies were, she was going to protect everything that belonged to her.


    She had dreams, she was still young, it wasn''t toote, it wasn''t...


    But why did she feel so miserable?


    Calista held her hand up to her chest and slowly squatted down on the ground.


    Hatred, anger, such unnecessary suffering, such unfair defeat...she felt utterly miserable.


    Suddenly a car stopped next to her and Wyatt hurried over to her. "Hello there, are you ok? It''s you?!"


    His face grew worried, "Why are you still here? I thought you went back a long time ago?"


    When she heard his voice, Calista slowly pulled herself out from those painfully suppressed feelings, and let Wyatt help her to the car.


    She was all wet, so Wyatt found an extra shirt in the trunk and gave it to her to wear.


    Calista was quiet and cooperative, like a beautiful marite.


    Finally they were set to go, and Wyatt said, "I''ll send you home."


    With that, he started driving toward the Shang house.


    Suddenly Calista realized she didn''t want to go back to the house, because earlier that day Quincy had said that her father wasn''ting home that night, and she would get no peace if she went back. Wyatt shot her a quick nce and asked, "Are you ok?"


    Calista didn''t reply, so he thought for a while and then awkwardly said, "About what happened this afternoon...I''d like to apologize. Those two men...are indeed connected to Quincy, but I''m sure there''s some misunderstanding somewhere!" Carson''s case was not under his charge, so in the afternoon he interrogated Zane and Yael, and it turned out that he had really misunderstood Calista.


    Calista snorted and turned her head towards Wyatt, "You don''t have to apologize. You''re not rted to me, so how you view me or whether you''ve misunderstood me or not doesn''t matter to me."


    Wyatt frowned and looked a little deted, and finally managed to squeeze out a response after a while, "Aunt Yelena married into your family, so that makes me your cousin. How can you say we''re not rted?"


    Calistaughed when she heard this.


    She raised an eyebrow and nced at him. Her features were even more exquisite in the dim light, and her eyes were cold and there was an evil glint in them.


    "Ok then my dear cousin, since I helped the police to catch a criminal, do I get any reward?"


    Wyatt was mesmerized by her smile for a while, before replying in a t voice, "Some cash and a medal."


    It wasn''t much cash, so this eldest daughter of the Staffords wouldn''t care for it, he thought, thinking she would say she wanted the medal.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    "I want the cash." Calista''s words shocked Wyatt.


    "How much do I get?" Calista asked.


    Wyatt found this puzzling. Carson was convicted of a violent crime, so the police was willing to give $10,000 as a reward. Calista helped to crack the case even though she was unable to tell the police where she got the clues from, but Mr. Kallum had used his influence to protect her from any suspicion that she was connected to the case, so she could have this cash reward.


    "You get $10,000," Wyatt replied, then couldn''t help but ask, "Are you very short on cash? Doesn''t my aunt give you $50,000 to spend every month? You''re only a student, why do you want so much money for?"


    Calista knew it was difficult to exin, so she just replied, "Then can you lend me $10,000 first? I need it urgently."


    This wasn''t much money to him. Even if there was no cash reward, if Calista asked him for money he would still give it to her.


    He was only a policeman, but everyone knew this was just a passing phase. Eventually his position would rise higher and higher, and his family didn''t even need the money in the first ce.


    Wyatt took out his long wallet, and there was quite a bit of cash in it. He gave the whole wad to Calista, but she counted out exactly $10,000 and returned him the excess.


    Wyatt was speechless. It was a bit of a stretch but they were still considered rtives, and considering that both families were quite well to do, did she really have to be so calctive? He was a little disappointed, and felt that Calista was as unfriendly as he had heard.


    They had almost reached the house when Calista suddenly leaned over and smiled, "Park the car outside, I''ll bring you to watch a good show."


    Wyatt could smell a faint fragrance from her as she drew close to him, and he suddenly felt his heart beat very fast, and just nodded without thinking. When he came to his senses, he started to worry because he had a hunch that the good show Calista wanted him to watch wasn''t anything good at all.


    He parked the car in the driveway and was about to knock on the door when Calista stopped him and pointed to the side of the house. "Hide over there." Wyatt walked to the side, not understanding why he was being so obedient.


    Calista pressed the door bell and the door opened almost immediately. The person who opened the door was not Lilian, but Yelena.


    When she saw that Calista was all drenched, Yelena smirked.


    She hadn''t settled her score with Calista yet, and this girl actually dared toe back!


    "Why did youe back? I thought you had wings to fly? Now you''ve learnt how to threaten others and create rifts between people! What did you tell Wyatt? You think he''ll believe you?"


    Calista quietly replied, "I came back because I don''t have any money and I don''t have anywhere to go to. If you give me some money I''ll leave immediately."


    Yelena spat in her face. Calista must be nuts! Asking her for money?!


    "Stupid girl, have you been scared silly byst night or have you gone mad thinking about money? You dare toe here and ask me for money? I''ve fed you, clothed you and sent you to school and you still want money? Dream on!"


    Calistaughed bitterly, "You always brag to others about how well you treat me, how much money you give me. Aren''t you afraid that one day they''ll find out you''ve never given me money? You''ve given me cheap clothes to wear and made me eat leftovers. If anyone ever finds out, your reputation will fall to pieces."


    When Calista mentioned the word reputation, Yelena immediately remembered how embarrassing it was for her the night before. She looked at Calista threateningly, raising her finely trimmed eyebrows.


    "Good on you, stupid girl! Go ahead and tell everyone! See who will believe you! All these years they''ve cemented their image of you already. You can go ahead and say anything you want, they''ll just think you''re lying!"


    Calistaughed as she shook her head, "Since you dare to talk to me like this, I suppose you''ve found someone to write an excellent thesis for Quincy. As the saying goes, spare the rod and spoil the child. Quincy has been so spoilt by you she''s as good as useless. Even if she does enter the college easily, she''ll do badly there."


    Yelena was almost driven to her death by these words. Calista used to just remain silent and her very presence annoyed her. But now Calista was like a crazy person saying anything she wanted, and it made her furious!

 Chapter 21 I Have Nothing To Do With You

    Yelena mocked her loudly in anger, "What has that got to do with you? You think you could threaten me forever with that? You can sleep outside tonight! Anyway you''re dressed so sl*tty, there''ll be plenty of lechers out there who will take you in!" Yelena then mmed the door in her face, as Calista had expected. She had already anticipated that she wouldn''t be able to even get past the front door.


    Calista turned her head to see Wyatt with mixed feelings written all over his face and smiled, "My dear cousin, looks like I have to trouble you to send me to a hotel."


    Wyatt immediately lost his temper, "You mean my aunt usually treats you like that? She shouldn''t treat you like that! She...this is...I''m going to knock some sense into her!"


    Calista pulled him back, her expression very calm under the dim light of the streemps and the slight drizzle. She didn''t appear angry at all, only a little tired. "Don''t give me any trouble. If she knows I purposely let you hear all that, I won''t just get chased out of the house." She was not strong enough to fight everyone on Yelena''s side, but one day she would finish all of them off.


    Her calm demeanor made Wyatt''s heart wrench.


    He couldn''t believe what a hypocrite his aunt was.


    For almost twenty years, his aunt had always talked about how hard it was to be a stepmother, and everyone had believed her. But the reality couldn''t be further from the truth!


    He couldn''t imagine how Calista lived her life in this state.


    He finally couldn''t bear it anymore and said, "You can stay at my ce!"


    Calista chortled, "You want to be a lecher who takes me in?"


    Wyatt angrily eximed, "Calista!"C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    But Calista had already turned towards the car. "Send me to the city center."


    She didn''t want to have anything to do with the Lins.


    After getting into the car, Calista told him clearly where she wanted to go, but Wyatt continued to insist that she should go to his ce, thinking that it was dangerous for a beautiful girl like Calista to stay by herself at some hotel.


    Calista saw that he wasn''t budging, so she said, "Wyatt. Have you thought about what would have happened if I didn''t meet you today?"


    Wyatt stopped talking.


    "Let''s imagine for a while," Calista''s eyes sparkled as she said gently, "Let''s say you came to the Shang house, then Yelena told you that something did happen between those two men and I, and for the sake of the Stafford family''s reputation, you had to make sure the two men never talked about what happenedst night.


    You would have thought in your heart, ah, this girl has brought trouble to the Staffords again, and then be very disgusted with me. But you would think that Yelena was doing this as a kind and loving stepmother, then you would have made use of your authority to do as she says, right?"


    Wyatt didn''t say anything because it was possible that he might have done exactly that. He thought about how ungently his aunt had called him over to the Shang house, and given her real attitude toward Calista, she might have plotted to do something like this and me everything on ?alista.


    Calista smiled, "Then today you interrogated those two scoundrels, and they told you the truth, but what did you tell me? You said there must be a misunderstanding somewhere, and that I''ve misunderstood Quincy..." ""No, I..."


    Wyatt didn''t know how to respond anymore. Before this he would have said confidently that there was definitely a misunderstanding, but now he wasn''t so sure anymore.


    "Enough. This proves that you are rtives with Yelena and Quincy, but you are not rted to me," concluded Calista.


    Wyatt started to panic and stopped the car at the roadside, and said with all seriousness, "That''s not true, you are my cousin too!"


    "How interesting, suddenly I''m a cousin. You never thought it mattered before, but now you think it does. Hasn''t that sentimente a little toote?"


    Calistaughed coldly and leaned towards him, "Or...you have some other intentions and so you''ve changed your attitude?"


    "That''s nonsense!" Wyatt retorted with a serious face.


    "Oh?"


    Calista came even closer and he could see her long eyshes curling upwards were like two little brushes, masking her real feelings and making her look even more dreamy. The fragrance from her filled the air around Wyatt again, and he could hear his own heart beat faster and faster.


    Suddenly he heard Calista''s cheekyughter as she said, "My dear cousin, your face has turned red..." Suddenly Calista put an arm around him! Wyatt got a shock and stiffened himself against the driver''s seat.


    His face only grew redder and redder, and he suddenly lost all ability to speak. His entire head could only think of how she was so close... was she thinking of... then suddenly there was a clicking sound, and it turned out Calista had found the button to unlock the car doors.


    Once the doors were unlocked she withdrew herself, and reced the cheeky smile earlier with a cold and calm expression. "Don''t talk to me about things like we''re cousins or we''re family or anything like that. I am not rted to you by blood at all, and we''re definitely not friends. Don''t you dare follow me."


    Calista got out from the car immediately. Wyatt put up a hand to stop her, but then gave up the idea.


    He had never thought that Calista and his aunt were at such odds with one another, she even despised the entire Lin family. Somehow he felt miserable.


    He hadn''t done anything to Calista, why was she so upset with him? Just because of those biased things he said in the afternoon?


    After getting out of the car, Calista bought a full set of clothes from the sportswear shop along the road, then found a small motel to stay for the night. She didn''t have anything else on her, so she had to find somewhere that didn''t require any ID. After she had washed up and changed into a new set of clothes, she finally felt peace.


    There was a moldy smell in the room but she didn''t care. She had stayed in ces a hundred times worse than this, so this was not bad already.


    After lying down for ten minutes she got up again, because there were still things she hadn''t done.


    No matter how tired she felt or how difficult the circumstances were, before she was captured and paralyzed, she would always practice the basic Energy techniques that her grandfather had taught her.


    ?


    She managed to live till thirty-one in her previous life, and had a good understanding of the benefits these basic techniques brought her. She even suspected that she managed to survive the K virus and contained it within her body because of these basic techniques that she practiced, as well as the herbal baths she always took. So she must not lose these basic techniques, she told herself.


    The movements were much like many other martial arts but this particr set of moves were fairly difficult. Calista started practicing since she was two years old, but only finally felt the Energy when she was ten years old. Since the Energy Needle technique required the Energy that was based on these moves, she had had to practice every day to make sure there was always sufficient Energy in her body to execute any advanced moves. After practicing for a while, Calista''s back was entirely wet with sweat. Suddenly there was a bang! Someone had banged her room door open.


    Calista got a shock and turned her head to look. A man in ck jumped into the room, leaned against the door with all his strength to keep it shut, then slowly slumped down onto the floor and didn''t move.


    Calista endured the ache in her body from the practicing and cautiously approached the intruder. She knew security in such ces were poor, but didn''t expect it to be this poor.


    But the intruder had not fainted. The moment Calista approached him, he frowned and looked up, "You stink, get lost!"


    When he said that, he was pointing a gun fitted with a silencer at Calista, clearly telling her that if she screamed, he''d shoot her.

 Chapter 22 Let Us Do Something Else

    Calista took a step back in shock, not because he looked threatening, but because of his face!


    Jarrett! She couldn''t believe her eyes...what sort of dumb luck was this? She just walked out to find someone who would greatly help Quincy in the future? Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.


    Jarrett narrowed his eyes and forced himself to stand. He quietly threatened Calista, "Chase them away, or else I''ll kill you!"


    Then he moved aside so that Calista could open the door.


    Calista took a deep breath and cracked open the door - there were policemen standing outside. "Erm...do you need anything?"


    Calista asked timidly and the policemen saw that it was only a young girl inside. The most senior officer asked gently, "Little girl, have you seen a man in ck?" Calista shook her head, "I just came back from a run and was about to bathe, so I didn''te out..."


    The police officer saw that she was indeed wearing exercise gear, covered in perspiration and stank, so he believed what she said and walked away.


    The moment Calista closed the door, Jarrett pushed her against the door.


    "Listen, I''m going to sleep here tonight. You''d better not y games with me, otherwise be prepared to die a horrible death!"


    Calista''s face turned white, and she stared at him for a while before finally speaking. "If I listen to you, will you give me money?" Money?


    The man raised an eyebrow in surprise. He didn''t think Calista was so bold as to strike a deal with him - this situation was getting more interesting!


    He curled his lips and asked, "How much do you want?"


    "$200,000." Calista looked down at his leg and said, "The bones in your feet are out of line, and there''s some vascr congestion in your lower torso. I''ll treat your injuries and let you sleep here for $200,000. How''s that?"


    Jarrett took a step back and smiled slyly, his handsome face reflecting a glint of evil. "Ok, I''ll let you treat my injuries. If I get well, I''ll give you $200,000 tomorrow. But if I don''t get well, I''ll sell you to human traffickers. How''s that, little girl?" Calista pulled up the cor of her jacket, looked down and said calmly, "Prepare $200,000 then. Move aside, I''m going to bathe."


    Jarrett found her reaction a little strange, so he pointed her gun at her and even though he was feeling weak, he managed to muster some strength and shouted, "Don''t try anything funny. Give me your cell phone!" Calista nced back at him, "I don''t have one."


    Heughed coldly, "Who doesn''t have a cell phone in this day and age?"


    "You want to do a body search?"


    Jarrett frowned at this and spat out, "Who wants to search your stinky body? Take off your clothes, I want to inspect."


    Calista looked at herself and realized she was really quite smelly because the practice session earlier had pushed toxins out of her body.


    She slowly lifted her arms and took off her jacket, revealing a tank top inside.


    The jacket fell to the floor, and the tight tank top inside showed off her thin but muscr upper body. The exercise leggings she wore were also very fitting, so they couldn''t hide anything, and couldn''t hide her figure either. Even though her stepmother had been very stingy with her, but because Calista was willing to eat anything and always worked out, she was thin in the right ces and curvy in the right ces - she had an excellent figure. An evil glint shed in Jarrett''s eyes as he quietly said, "Keep stripping."


    Calista smiled


    did she still need to


    strip further? It was obvious that these clothes couldn''t hide anything, and he was purposely making things difficult for her. So she walked over to the Bathroom and exerted a little strength on the stainless steel door handle nailed into the door, pulling the handle out of the door easily.


    The cheeky smile on Jarrett''s face immediately changed to a guarded face and he raised the gun in his hands again. He could see the strength Calista had from this one action, and this was no simple girl. "Who on earth are you?!" Calistaughed, "Don''t be so nervous."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    She waved the handle in her hands, then flung it to the floor, and itnded with a loud thud.


    "I was just removing the lock from the bathroom door so that you would have a peace of mind. The bathroom walls are also made from frosted ss and so you can make out what''s happening inside. If you see anything suspicious, you cae in anytime. Don''t you think I''m being very sincere?"


    But the action earlier was a silent threat to the man in front of here in if you dare!


    Calista didn''t care about Jarrett''s darkened expression and slowly walked into the bathroom, closing the door behind her.


    She turned the shower on, took off her clothes quickly and stood under the water to rinse off.


    A lot of toxins were released earlier, which was normal. Her grandfather had said the more toxins released, the better it was for her body.


    She also felt that her senses were heightened after that round of practice, and so Calista smiled gleefully and didn''t bother thinking about the ''stranger'' sitting outside, and continued with bathing.


    She was able to keep calm in this situation because she knew what she was capable of, and Jarrett was badly injured at the same time. If he tried anything, she was able to let him have a taste of the pain she went through in her previous life... Calista used both hands to push her hair back, closed her eyes and curled her lips into a cold smile.


    Could you call this meeting with Jarrett fate? She hadn''t gone to look for him yet, but he hade knocking on her door already!


    The Sinirs were an organized crime syndicate, and while they had stopped most of their illegal dealings by this current generation, they still maintained control over various people, and had eyes and ears everywhere.


    In her previous life, part of her terrible suffering was thanks to Jarrett!


    Calista lifted her head and let the water hit her forehead directly. It seemed like this was the only way to suppress the hate that was taking form in her heart.


    In previous life, after bing sessful, Quincy forced Calista to be her ''assistant'' to cover the fact that she didn''t know anything about medical science.


    Jarrett had heard Quincy was a famous doctor and wanted her to save his younger brother. Of course Quincy had no idea about how to do it. In the end Calista was the one


    who saved his brother, but as


    credited to Quincy who used her new benefactor status to make Jarrett do many things for her.


    After seeing Quincy''s true colors, Calista quarreled with Quincy and escaped from the house, and almost made it overseas with her professor.


    But Jarrett caught Calista himself, and she cried and told Jarrett that the person who saved his brother was her and not Quincy.


    Jarrett wasn''t sure whether to believe her or not, but let her go. However, on the day she was supposed to leave the country, he sent people to capture her and passed her to Quincy.


    Everything happened too quickly - the data that she wanted to use to make aeback was taken away from her, and her right hand that she used for acupuncture was incapacitated by Quincy who was afraid people would find out that Calista was the one who saved the life of Jarrett''s brother.


    How should she deal with Jarrett?


    Calista continued to let the water flow as she closed her eyes.


    If it weren''t for him, she would have escaped overseas, made aeback, exposed Quincy, and everything else would not have happened!


    Destroy something he loves the most? He seems to love his younger brother very much...


    At this moment, Jarrett was finally unable to remain standing and sat down on the bed, his eyes still fixed nervously on the bathroom, in case Calista did any tricks.


    He thought of how she yanked the handle out to threaten him andughed to himself. How he had fallen from grace - such a small girl could be a threat to him! Jarrett shook his head and tried to remain alert. He knew that people like him had to stay alert at all times, otherwise they would definitely meet a terrible end.

 Chapter 23 I Am Going To Treat Your Injuries

    He had rxed his stare earlier, but now he focused once more on the frosted ss of the bathroom...


    He was really impressed - this girl was very bold indeed. She had the guts to not just strike a deal with him, but she even broke the bathroom door lock and then went ahead to bathe in front of a dangerous man. What was her confidence based on? Kungfu? But he had a gun.


    The sound of the water stopped, and Calista walked out dressed in a bathrobe, her hair untied.


    The steam from the bath made her pasty white skin slightly pink, the white bathrobe tied tightly around her waist, her long and fair legs now exposed, and her waist length hair was wet and slightly wavy, making her bright eyes sparkle even brighter.


    The situation earlier was very tense and now Jarrett found that this girl didn''t look too bad at all! Her figure and face was enough to heat up his body, and her harmless yet intense aura made him unable to tear his eyes away from her. Jarrett thought to himself, he wanted to bring this little girl back for some fun!


    Calista had no idea what Jarrett was thinking about. She looked at him for a while, then smiled, "So can you put your gun down now? I''m going to treat your injuries now."


    Jarrett saw that Calista was very serious when she said it, as if she really knew what she was doing. After thinking for a while, he put the gun down gently at the head of the bed. "How do you intend to treat me? I don''t see any medicine here." Jarrett''s smile was very sly, and his long phoenix eyes stared holes into her, yet there was an unexinable coldness inside, proving that this man was definitely not a good man.


    Calista smiled calmly, "I don''t need medicine, just take off your shirt."


    Jarrett hesitated for just one moment before swiftly removing his shirt.


    His figure wasn''t too bad, perfect six pack abs and various scars of different sizes - one could say this was a very manly body.


    There was arge bowl sized bruise on his abdomen, and the broken blood vessels spread in all directions over his olive colored skin. It seemed that the policemen earlier were not capable of causing such a serious injury. Calista calmly analyzed the situation, told him to lie down, then walked over to the side of the bed.


    She held her hair clip in her hand, and Jarrett realized she was taking out a needle from her hair clip!


    His eyes narrowed, his body reacting faster than his thoughts. The next moment, The dagger in his hand rested on Calista''s neck, his entire body tensing up. "What are you trying to do?"


    Calista threw the hair clip to one side and waved the needle in her hand. This needle was very thin, about 4 inches long. It looked very sharp but it was very soft, so it would be hard to insert this needle if Jarrett remained so tense. Sheughed as if she didn''t see the dagger on her neck, "I just want to perform some acupuncture on you, but you''re too tense."


    "Acupuncture?"


    Jarrett frowned and continued to look suspiciously at her. He slowly moved the dagger from her neck to the belt of her bathrobe and narrowed his eyes.


    "I see you''re still young, so let''s not y with needles, let''s do something else..."


    Jarrett was all ready to cut her bathrobe belt with his dagger, "You''re not wearing anything inside, right?"


    Calista used two fingers to hold onto the dagger. "If I were you, I wouldn''t do anything. You have internal bleeding in your abdomen and if you don''t stop the bleeding now, tomorrow you''d need insert tubes to get all the blood out." Jarrett tried to move his dagger, but Calista''s two fingers were holding it very tightly. His expression changed, then he let go of the dagger andy back down on the bed. "I''ll have to trouble you then..."


    Calista smiled as she threw the dagger on the floor. "You''re wee."


    Both of them had friendly expressions on their face, but there was a weird atmosphere between them.


    Calista didn''t bother about him anymore, her finger guiding the needle above his abdomen.


    Jarrett looked like he didn''t care, but his body instinctively tensed up because the abdomen was one of the most vulnerable parts of the body, and he had to guard against Calista at all times in case she tried anything funny. Calista slowly closed her eyes and started to focus. In a sh, her aura suddenly changed.


    Earlier she was a little mysterious and flirty, but when she opened her eyes again, she looked dead serious and her eyes sparkled much brighter than before.


    The seriousness on her face made Jarrett strangely begin to rx, and he began to believe she really knew what she was doing.


    Calista put her focus on the end of the needle in her hand, and didn''t notice the change of Jarrett''s mood.


    Acupuncture was really all about inserting needles into acupoints, and this would in turn help to both improve what was good for the body, and rectify what was wrong in the body.


    But Calista was different, because the Energy Needle techniques that she learnt could transfer the Energy within her to the patient through the needle, and this Energy could be considered giving the person a new lease of life. As such, all Energy Needles could only save lives, and could not kill.


    Energy Needles could also help one to reverse aging and increase lifespan. The fact she managed to reach thirty in her previous life despite the virus was sufficient proof of that.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Calista took a deep breath and stopped thinking about the past. She held her hand up high and prepared to insert the needle.


    In her previous life...this very miraculous skill became her downfall.


    But in this life, it would be her trump card! It was like a sharp sword in hand that would help her win every battle.


    In a sh, the silver needle was inserted like a screw into his abdomen. Calista only used one needle and one acupoint, but she sent all her active Energy swiftly into the acupoint that the needle had punctured. This was one of the Energy Needle techniques - Draconia Touch.


    Jarrett could feel something different. His cold eyes now looked confused, because the heat he could feel in his abdomen wasn''ting from him...it wasing from that one silver needle.


    Calista panted for a while. She was d that she had just finished her practice session earlier and gathered all the Energy already, otherwise this one needle would have caused her worn-out body to copse.


    The bruise on Jarrett''s abdomen


    started to fade at incredible speed -


    the feeling he had was as if this one needle had given him vitality and


    stimulus that he had never felte


    Reline


    before, allowing him to heal himself. It was just like he could heal himself! He was healing from the inside.


    Jarrett suddenly thought of something, and stared hard at Calista. He had visited excellent acupuncturists before too, and they were also very highly skilled. Cases like his mother''s headaches found relief only after doing monthly acupuncture sessions, none of the other medicines or treatments had


    worked.


    But no matter how highly skilled they were, they were no match for this girl, who could heal internal injuries with just one needle.


    Her needle not just stimted his acupoint, but also inserted vitality - this ability was certainly rare.


    Calista had already removed the needle and moved on to treating his leg. Fortunately his ankle was merely twisted, and just needed to be snapped back in ce.


    Jarrett sat up and saw the woman down on one knee and inspecting his ankle at the end of the bed, and started thinking about what sort of history she had, and whether she might pose any threat or if she had any ulterior motives.


    "Who did you learn acupuncture from?"


    He had thought about it and felt that it was safer to get treatment from her teacher instead. He was afraid she wouldn''t tell him, so he added, "Tell me who your teacher is and I''ll give you a million dors."

 Chapter 24 Fallen For Someone Else

    Calista didn''t respond, quietly pulling his ankle up.


    Her palms became warm and she ced them on two acupoints of his ankle, massaging as she said, "You''re looking for someone to treat your younger brother?" Jarrett was startled and pulled out another dagger from his back, aiming it at Calista.


    But Calista was faster than him, and she used her hands to give a good twist. The loud snap of the bones being snapped back into ce was heard, and the pain made Jarrett take a breath of cold air, giving Calista time to take away his dagger. She raised her eyebrows and said cheekily, "You have quite a number of weapons on you huh..."


    "Who the hell are you!" Jarrett red at her, trying hard to endure the pain.


    There were very few people who knew about his younger brother, how could she have known?!


    Calista clicked her tongue a few times and said, "Has Mr. Sinir forgotten already? Last night you were at the party at the Fairchilds, and even though you left early, we have met before."


    "You are..." Jarrett frowned. His memory was pretty good, but strangely enough after thinking through all the people he had met the night before, he couldn''t remember who Calista was.


    Calista blinked and then suddenly lowered her head and put on a wooden and sullen expression. Jarrett opened his eyes in shock and said in disbelief, "You''re Kallum''s fianc¨¦e?!"


    No wonder she knew some of these secrets... Jarrett felt very confused.


    Calista lifted her head. She did not like beingbeled like that.


    "My name is Calista, and the Staffords have been royal doctors for nine generations! Since my father didn''t want to be a doctor, I learnt everything from my grandfather, so I don''t actually have any teacher. If you want, you can hire me, otherwise you can look for someone else. But I''m not sure if your brother...is able to wait for long."


    Calista then used the dagger to cut the bedsheet, using it to tie the dagger to his ankle. He could deal with the rest the next day.


    Initially Jarrett was angry that this woman dared to curse his brother!


    But when he watched her bandage his ankle, somehow that anger dissipated.


    When her head was lowered like that, there was a gentleness about her. But Jarrett was well aware that the moment she lifted her eyes, she was as sharp as a knife and very aggressive.


    What a special woman...


    "Ok done, you have one night to think about it."


    Calista dusted off her hands and stood up. She took Jarrett''s phone out from his jacket and keyed in her bank ount number before throwing it back to him, then she wore the jacket over her bathrobe and looked at him tiredly.


    "Please transfer $200,000 to my ount first thing tomorrow. Also if Mr. Sinir wants my medical services, I don''t need a lot, just a million will do. If you''ve decided, you can transfer it at the same time."


    Calista picked up her things and was ready to leave the room, so Jarrett asked, "It''s sote, where do you think you''re going?"


    Calista turned back and nced at Jarrett, and said sarcastically, "If not? Mr. Sinir, I only provide medical services, not sexual services."


    Jarrett was taken aback by this, but Calista walked out before he could react. He couldn''t help but stroke his chin thinking, there were so many women who were more than happy to sleep with him, but this girl couldn''t wait to leave. He had heard about how she loved Kallum more than anybody else, so was that why she had no feelings for other men?


    The rain had stopped.


    When Calista walked out, the night breeze carried some droplets of water, and the cold made her more clearheaded.


    It had been more than thirty hours since she woke up in this new life, and she hadn''t slept a wink...her body was now very tired.


    What she didn''t know was that a Bugatti Veyron was parked for a long time not far from the motel.


    After leaving the police station, Kallum did not return to the office, but went to investigate what happened the year he had nearly drowned.


    Nine years had passed and it was hard to find anything, so even though he was very angry, there was nothing he could do about it.


    Kallum thought of rifying directly with Mirabelle, but then he could only think of that moment when Calista kissed him, and how her eyes were full of sorrow, pain and despair, and he gave up that idea.


    No...she had liked him for so many years, how could she bear to let him go?


    So Kallum wanted to see Calista! This thought drove him to bang on the Staffords'' doorte at night, startling Yelena.


    When Yelena heard that he was looking for Calista, she stuttered something like Calista often didn''te back the entire night and she didn''t know where Calista was.


    Kallum could see that she seemed to be hiding something, so he went ahead and checked the CCTVs along the street and found out that Calista hade back, but didn''t go into the house, instead getting into Wyatt''s car. Wyatt was very puzzled when he received Kallum''s call - everyone knew Kallum didn''t like to see Calista.


    Wyatt thought, there was no harm in my telling him since Calista is his fianc¨¦e.


    Besides, with Kallum around, I don''t have to worry about Calista''s safety.


    So he told Kallum where Calista had got off and which motel she checked into.


    But after Kallum had gone through all this trouble to rush here, he hesitated. What did he want with Calista?


    Apologize? But the truth of the matter was still not clear, why should he apologize?


    Then why was he here?


    Kallum pulled his hair in frustration and sat in the car for more than an hour before finally deciding to just leave first and think through properly what he wanted to do before taking any further action.


    But at this moment, Calista had emerged from the hotel, dressed in nothing but a bathrobe with a man''s jacket over it!


    In that instant, Kallum narrowed his eyes, anger welling up inside him.


    He didn''t even take a moment to think before hitting the elerator, and screeched to a halt before Calista.


    Calista felt that this car looked very familiar, because the car had an unforgettable beauty. But she also remembered that this car was ridiculously expensive, and in the whole of Horington, only one person had this car... When she thought of the car owner, she squinted her eyes and shuddered.


    Kallum!This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    Kallum lowered his car windows and felt that the jacket on Calista was an eyesore! His handsome face tensed up, "Get in."


    Calistaughed coldly, thinking to herself, this man must be nuts! She had already drawn the lines very clearly with him!


    Calista continued walking, but of course, a human could never outrun a car.


    "GET IN! Don''t make me say it a third time!"


    At this, Calista turned and nced at


    him. "Mr. Kallum, Didn''t I make myself clear earlier? I''ve already backed out of the engagement, so we now have nothing to do with one another. Why should I get into your car?"


    Kallum was pricked by her words. Since the night before, Calista was already behaving strangely. In the past, she would never have spoken to him like this. Could she have fallen for someone else?


    Kallum''s eyes fell on the jacket once


    more and he shorted. "You think you can call off the engagement because you want to? Have the parents on both sides agreed? No, right? That means you''re still my fianc¨¦e, and I''m telling you to get in the car!"


    Calistaughed in her annoyance, her bright eyes gleaming coldly as she put her hands on the lowered car window, looking down at him "I''ve already returned the token of marriage to the Fairchilds, what else do you want? Can''t you just get lost from me?"

 Chapter 25 I Will Fulfill One Request Of Yours

    Her attitude was aggressive, but Kallum merely smirked and asked her in return, "And who do you think you are, what right do you have to order me around?" Calista suddenly became silent.


    Indeed...what right did she have?


    Seeing Calista had suddenly gone quiet, Kallum started to regret what he said...he had note here to pick a fight with her.


    So he softened his tone and said awkwardly, "Get in, we haven''t cleared up everything between us."


    "What else isn''t clear yet?" Calista asked coldly.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    "EVERYTHING!"


    Calista scoffed - she wanted to hear what he still had to say.


    She walked over to the other side, opened the door and sat in the front passenger seat. With a cold expression she said, "Ok spit it out. What do you want?"


    Kallum felt that this was not a good ce to talk, so he stepped on the elerator and headed for his own residence in the city area, and took the time to clear the messy thoughts inside his head.


    Calista didn''t say anything. Given how much Kallum disliked her, she wasn''t afraid that he''d do anything to her.


    The car sped into Havenrock Ind that was in the middle of Horington - the little ind spanning merely 20,000 square feet belonged to the Fairchilds, and besides the Fairchild Manor outside the city center, Kallum normally lived on Havenrock Ind. There was only one road leading in and out of the ind, and there was only one bungalow on it.


    By the time therge metal gates opened, Calista''s emotions had calmed down. She didn''t know why, but every time she looked at Kallum, she would lose control of her emotions and she hated this feeling.


    After getting out of the car, the servants quietly took their leave. Calista looked at the light reflected in theke not far from the house and asked coldly, "Can we talk now? What did you discover? And what do you want to do?"


    Kallum shot her a nce and asked apletely unrted question instead. "Who were you with in the motel just now?"


    Calista stared back at him strangely, "What has that got to do with you?"


    Kallum''s eyebrow twitched at this, "Do you really have to talk to me like this?"


    He frowned, "If I wasn''t sure that you really are Calista, I''d have thought someone swapped bodies with you!"


    Calista''s heart suddenly skipped a beat.


    She looked back at theke and replied coldly, "Don''t talk as if you know me very well...if you don''t get to the point, then I must get going."


    "Wait!" Kallum called out after her when he saw her turn to leave. Now Calista was like a cactus, full of thorns and on full defense mode - the old Calista was more adorable.


    "I went to investigate the things you mentioned earlier today. But it''s been too long, so nothing turned up."


    "Oh." Calista didn''t care. After today, it didn''t matter who Kallum liked and who he disliked.


    Her apathetic reaction made Kallum suddenly feel a difort in his heart. She used to like him so much, but now she didn''t seem to care whether he existed or not - was she too heartbroken to feel anything? He suddenly said, "But I thought about it, even so, I shouldn''t have treated you like that. So I''d like to make it up to you tell me what you want."


    The details of what happened in the past remained unclear, but from the moment when Calista kissed him earlier, the look in her eyes made it unlikely for him to hate her like before.


    That look in her eyes was unforgettable, and the empty feeling in his heart made him think ofpensating her.


    Calista looked at him curiously. Given the power and wealth of the Fairchilds,pensation to be offered must be very generous...


    She smiled, "Can you tell me what you''re going to do about Mirabelle?"


    In her previous life, Kallum did anything that Mirabelle asked for.


    Mirabelle is a very good actor, Kallum probably feels something for her too. When the timees for him to get married, his first choice will be Mirabelle, thought Calista. but she died before this came to pass. Kallum frowned when he heard Mirabelle''s name. Even though there was no conclusion to the matter yet, somehow he didn''t like hearing any mention of her. "I''ll interrogate her when she''s back." Calistaughed. "If Mirabelle were willing to admit to this, she wouldn''t have done this in the first ce."


    Kallum remained silent.


    Without any concrete evidence, nine out of ten people would believe Mirabelle - that was how sessfully she had built up her image and reputation.


    Calista didn''t want to have anything to do with Mirabelle anymore, but for him, she felt that she had to tear that mask off Mirabelle''s face. "There''s another way to find out what sort of person Mirabelle really is." "How?" Kallum asked seriously.


    UT


    Calista narrowed her eyes, "She''s on tour now, right? From what I know, the dance that shot her to fame is called "Waterfront Serenade", and the idea for that dance was stolen from a dancer named Xandra Summers. It''s easy to investigate this because Xandra is always by her side. She poisoned him so he can''t speak anymore. Once you investigate this matter properly, you will know what sort of person Mirabelle is. Also, bring Xandra to see me."


    Kallum started to think, if everything Calista said was true, then the image that Mirabelle had built up for so long of being pure and kind would copse in an instant. "Why? Can''t bear to? Or you think I''m spouting nonsense? Mirabelle didn''t giarize and didn''t poison others?" Calista asked mockingly.


    "That''s not it." Kallum stuck his chin


    out slightly as he red back at Calista, "I just find it strange. If you have so many people''s weaknesses in your hands, why do you wait till now to say it? Last night you said you heard those two men confess how theymitted their crimes, who are you trying to fool? Calista, what else are you hiding?"


    Calista pursed her lips, realizing she had been too hasty. She only wanted to expose Mirabelle''s dirty deeds, but did not expect Kallum to suspect her. "You just need to agree to do this. Don''t ask so much!" Kallum could see she was putting on a strong front and snorted. "And this attitude of yours...before what happenedst night, you still looked at me with love. But now you seem to look at me with...disdain?" He did agree that he had gone too far the night before, but it couldn''t be that she had forgotten all her love for him, right?


    He was sharper than she thought!


    Calista pulled the jacket around her higher up to cover more of her head. "You''re asking too many questions Mr. Kallum, I''m very tired. Either you arrange for me to sleep in a room here, or send me back to the city center."


    Kallum was still ring at her, but since she was tired, he let it go and said, "I will go and check what you said, but as I said earlier, you can ask one thing of me, and you haven''t told me what you want yet." Calistaughed in a low voice.


    Herughter contained indescribable sorrow pain, but after listening closely, it was filled with only loneliness. "I want to be your wife..."


    Kallum got a shock!


    "Was that what you wanted to hear?" Calista looked at him, her expression difficult to read. "Since when did you care about what I want? That I don''t stick to you anymore makes you interested in me?" Kallum scoffed andughed as he replied casually, "And so what if that''s the case? Your personality now is way more interesting than before."

 Chapter 26 Billion Dollar Deal

    "Then you have to be careful."


    Calista looked down and hid her face in the dark, "It''s very dangerous to be interested in a woman. I can tell you now that if you fall for me, it won''t be a pleasant experience."


    Kallum couldn''t help butugh, "You seem very confident of yourself? Don''t worry, I didn''t fall for you for more than ten years, it will be impossible in the future."


    Calista unexpectedly nodded in agreement and said hoarsely, "You''re right...never mind ten odd years...even if I give you another ten odd years, you won''t fall for me. I was just kidding earlier, don''t worry. I know myself."


    For some reason, Kallum could tell the bitterness in Calista''s face. He suddenly felt a bitterness in his heart too, the feeling so quick and so urgent, it made him upset about what he just said earlier.


    Calista opened her eyes again.


    Since Kallum was so sincere, and she was so disadvantaged now, wasn''t it a good chance to gain some advantage? So she suddenly said, "I don''t needpensation, but I think we can strike a deal." Kallum put aside the confused and messy thoughts and asked in a serious voice, "What sort of deal?"


    Calista replied, "I know you''ve always wanted to expand into the pharmaceutical industry, but you haven''t found anyone brilliant enough topete or surpass otherpanies'' forms and talents. But I can do that! We can have an agreement - within three years, I''ll help your pharmaceuticalpany be a globalpetitor worth billions of dors, and you will only have to do one thing for me."


    What she just described sounded like an impossible dream, and Kallum wanted tough at her for being too ambitious. But when he saw the seriousness in Calista''s eyes, he stopped breathing for a moment. "What do you want me to do?" Kallum couldn''t help but ask. Calista curled her lips into a smile, exuding a different sort of elegance in the night sky. "I want to be the Fairchilds'' goddaughter, a proper one, with actual power. Give me three years and I''ll have a billion dorpany for you! Do we have a deal?"


    If it were any other person standing in front of Kallum, he would definitely not listen to this crazy babbling.


    But since it was Calista...she made him consider her proposal very seriously, even though it sounded impossible.


    "A billion dors isn''t something you earn by just saying. Why should I believe that you can do it?"


    Kallum''s eyes sharpened - since Calista refused to make any requests and wanted to strike a deal instead, then he would follow the process of making a deal instead. He wanted to see how Calista was going to persuade him, since being the goddaughter of the Fairchilds was already worth billions in itself.


    Calista rubbed her fists together and started walking towards him. "Because the Staffords have been pce doctors for nine generations."


    "Because their skills have been passed down to me, and these are skills that nobody else has!"


    She had already walked right in front of Kallum, standing extremely close to him.


    Calista lifted her head, her wet hair drawing wavy lines on her face, exuding a merciless sort of beauty. "Well...if you don''t believe me, I can prove it."


    Just as she finished saying this, her expression suddenly focused, and the silver needle she prepared in her hands suddenly pierced right into Kallum''s chest with incredible speed!


    Kallum took a step back, holding his chest in shock and staring at her. In the next moment, he could feel heat from his chest, and even though he tried to find it a few times, the needle had simply disappeared.


    "What the hell did you do?!"


    Calista suddenly stumbled but managed a smile, "Don''t worry, this is a Heart Needle and will be naturally expelled from the body after a month. But during this one month, you will...be very energized...your senses heightened..."


    Before she could finish speaking, she suddenly copsed. Her body was already so tired, yet she still used such a difficult acupuncture technique, and it used up all the Energy left in her.


    Kallum got a shock and held her in his arms, "What''s wrong?!"


    Calista weakly leaned on him - he smelled like sunshine, and she could only smell it at this distance...


    She looked up at him, and even though she was bing short of breath, her hand still managed to hold onto his shirt cor tightly, as if she was holding onto a rope that would rescue her from drowning waters. "I''m.....really good...I can do it Kallum, believe me! Just believe me this once..." Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Her voice was very cold, and even though she was trying her best to convince him and persuade him, but Kallum could hear crying and perhaps shouting behind her words.


    His handsome face grew serious, then he quietly said, "Ok, we have a deal."


    Calista was ted to hear this. She had never thought it would be this easy to obtain support from Kallum. Her lips curled into a smile before she finally fainted.


    Kallum realized her body was very cold and had even fainted, so he quickly called his family doctor toe over to take a look at her. Kallum''s family doctor was an old man in his sixties named Shaun, and was highly skilled, so he didn''t need to check much to conclude what happened to her.


    "Over exhaustion, so she''s fainted from justck of energy. I believe she hasn''t slept for at least thirty hours."


    Kallum nodded, then started unbuttoning his shirt. "Also, can you help to check this? Earlier she stuck a needle in."


    His long fingers pointed to a red dot on his chest with a strange look on his face, because after Calista inserted that needle, he realized that he suddenly felt awake, and all the tiredness from the day had disappeared, but he wasn''t sure if it was because of that one needle. Shaun Yancey, the Fairchilds'' family doctor, initially did not think much of it, but after he realized where the red dot was, he couldn''t tear his eyes away! "Did you say...a needle went in here?"


    Kallum nodded and frowned, "Is there a problem?"


    Shaun leaned forward to take a closer look, and then started clicking his tongue, "That''s really amazing, this sort of Energy Locking Needle technique has been lost for a long time. Legend has it that this sort of acupuncture can lock a person''s energy and protect the heart, so if someone is close to dying, this technique can preserve his life.


    Wow I''m really impressed, I thought nobody knew how to do this anymore, but this youngdy knows such an advanced acupuncture technique...don''t worry, this needle wille out by tomorrow. But why did she do this to you?" Kallum frowned, because what Calista mentioned was not Energy Locking Needle, but Heart Needle, so he didn''t answer the doctor, but asked, "Then what''s Heart Needle? Do you know anything about this?"


    The old man was stunned by this question - he didn''t expect Kallum to know this term.


    He squinted his eyes and thought for a while before speaking, "Heart Needle is the most advanced of all Energy Locking Needle techniques! Apparently this needle will use the active Energy of the acupuncturist to protect the heart of the patient. So during the month that the needle remains inside, even if the patient is severely injured or close to death, he will not die, and it will help to


    improve blood flow and Energy flow, giving the patient an Energy boost.


    But then again, this sort of technique was only written in ancient historical records, and nobody knows if it''s real. Besides, in this modern world of medical science, who really has this so called active Energy?"

 Chapter 27 Morning Kiss

    Kallum waspletely stunned, but he didn''t say anything because he could feel that the needle that Calista had inserted was indeed that Heart Needle. She was really so highly skilled? She knew legendary acupuncture techniques? Kallum started to feel that the deal she was striking with him wasn''t a joke after all, but that she was really able to do it.


    After Shaun left, Kallum remained by her bedside and Calista was frowning in her sleep.


    ...


    He instinctively tried to rub away the frown lines between her eyebrows, but she ended up frowning even harder.


    Kallum pursed his lips, and guiltily took back his hand.


    When Calista was sleeping she still looked gentle, not like the aggressive, cold and mocking girl she was earlier, instead now she looked demure and fragile.


    Was she really the one who jumped in to save him? She was already willing to die for him at nine years old?


    Kallum smiled a little, then flicked Calista''s face gently. "I don''t have any evidence to prove what you said, but I''ve decided to help you this time. Not for the sake of a billion dor deal but...just take it as an apology for everything in the past, I hope you aren''t bluffing me." Calista woke up to find herself aching all over, but after practicing her basic techniques on the bed, she felt much better.


    She didn''t really understand why she went all out the night before either - perhaps people make bad decisions when they''re too tired.


    But then again, Kallum unexpectedly agreed to the deal - even though that needle was a very powerful one, people without any knowledge of its benefits wouldn''t appreciate its real value.


    As long as he was agreeable, it would be easier to get back at those enemies of hers...in exchange, she was really prepared to bring billions of dors in for Kallum!


    After taking a bath, she changed into the clothes that were prepared for her and went downstairs calmly.


    She was surprised that Kallum was still around, and his eyes lit up a little when he saw here down.


    He just knew Calista would look nice on these clothes - when she wasn''t being sharp tongued, cheongsams were very suitable for her elegant aura.


    Calista pushed her hair behind her ears, revealing her cold, sparkling eyes. Since there was breakfast on the table, she sat down to eat.


    Kallum gracefully held up a cup of coffee and asked with a little bit of interest in his voice, "What''s wrong with your eyes?"


    In the past Calista always had a thick fringe, so nobody ever saw the sparkle in her eyes, which was like a sea of stars in the pitch ck night sky. What a rare sight!


    Calista''s eyes darkened and ignored his question, instead asking, "About what you promised mest night - when can you get it done?"


    She wanted to be the goddaughter of the Fairchilds, and toplete the process, there would definitely be a banquet of sorts and important people would be invited. This public announcement would enable her to erase that irritating fianc¨¦ebel, and also make it easier to do what she intended to do.


    Kallum narrowed his eyes, then suddenly broke into a smile, "A month. After a month you can get what you want."


    Very few people could resist Kallum''s smile, because he was simply too good looking. He was very arrogant, but then he did have every reason to be.


    Calista looked down and nodded.


    Given the importance of the matter, one month was quite fast.


    "Register a pharmaceutical business as soon as possible. Since you''ve held up your end of the agreement, I will too."


    Considering how much Kallum was worth, a billion dors was a lot of money but it didn''t interest him - he was more interested in Calista.


    "You don''t dare to look at me?"C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    The moment he said that, Calista looked up at him coldly, staring at him straight as if he were merely an object.


    Kallum didn''t know the reason why he wanted to try breaking this cold expression of Calista''s. He much preferred the way she used to look at him, that shy and helpless look.


    "You''re very good looking, ok? Can I stop looking at you now?"


    Calista gave a polite but annoyed smile.


    Kallum felt some displeasure at this reaction so he suddenly drew close to her. He didn''t believe that Calista had no more feelings for him.


    He had a pair of deep set upturned


    almond eyes, and because he had some Caucasian heritage, his features were very sharp and defined, his pupils carrying a little mysterious purplish tinge, plus a tiny mole at his left eye corner - one could only say that this face was a stunning


    masterpiece, every detail


    beauty! This very face once


    mesmerized her, making her unable


    to tear her eyes away...


    When he saw that Calista had gone into a daze, he raised an eyebrow slightly - he knew it, nobody could resist his charm! He curled his lips into a smile, "So, do you still want to stop looking at me?" Calista suddenly also curled her lips into a strange smile, and the next second she leaned over and kissed his thin, light pink lips.


    The two of them were separated only by a table, and when their eyes met, Kallum held his breath.


    Her lips were very soft and sweet, a sweetness like milk.


    Calista gently bit his lip, then pulled herself away and asked curiously, "Since you didn''t resist, you want me to continue?" Kallum''s eyes darkened, then suddenly he pulled Calista''s head towards him and exchanged an even deeper kiss.


    The amorous air made them both feel warm, and even though they were kissing and there was some feelings stirring within them, they continued to stare stubbornly at one another, one pair of eyes like fire, the other like ice. Calista suddenly pushed Kallum away, clenching her teeth as she asked in a cold voice, "What is this? Don''t you hate me anymore?"


    Kallum licked his lips and continued staring at her lips as if he hadn''t gotten enough yet, but he spoke as if she didn''t mean anything to him, "Yeah I still do, but why would I allow anyone to just take advantage of me like that?" Calista snorted - so he just wanted to have the final say.


    The doorbell rang, and Calista could hear the servants outside greeting the guest. "Mister Shang? Are you here to fetch Ms. Stafford?"


    Benedict hade.


    Calista seemed confounded a moment before going upstairs to fetch her belongs, then walked back down slowly.


    Kallum sat back down at the table. Calista felt that her father wasn''t worth Kalluming out to greet him in person, so Calista just thanked the butler and then walked out of Havenrock Vi with her father.


    After Calista had left, Kallum ufortably uncrossed his legs. He never thought that Calista''s kiss was so sweet that after just two kisses, he had felt aroused. He was d that Calista had left - if she found out, she would definitely mock him!


    Calista didn''t think it strange that her


    father hade looking for her.


    Kallum must have gone to the Shang house while trying to look for her, and Benedict knew that her cell phone was damaged and was uncontactable, so he had toe and pick her up in person,


    Benedict was relieved not to see Kallum, since he didn''t like talking to people who were super-excellent, he avoided Kallum like the gue.


    Both father and daughter were quiet


    for some time, then Benedict suddenly spoke, "Callie, have you


    been overly traumatized by what et


    happened two days ago? You''ve been acting very strangely these couple of days, and your mother is very worried about you...


    Calista asked in confusion, "Wasn''t my Mom dead? She spoke to you in a dream?"

 Chapter 28 Calista

    "Callie!" Benedict started getting angry, "Isn''t Yelena your mother? Your biological mother passed away when you were very young, and I was very busy with work. If Yelena wasn''t at home to look after you, you think you couldfortably go to school every day?" When he saw that Calista continued to smile coldly in silence, Benedict tried to persuade her gently, "Sometimes Yelena says some awful things, but that''s just the way she is. Deep down she still loves you..."


    Calista finally couldn''t take it anymore. She looked coldly at Benedict and snapped, "Don''t just say that someone loves me! That''s demeaning to the word ''love''!"


    "Calista!" Benedict was furious, but his personality was too gentle, and so even if he was really angry, he couldn''t bring himself to say anything really nasty. He merely put on an unhappy expression and said in a dull voice, "Yelena has called a psychiatrist for you - I think she''s right, you''d better see one!"


    A cold light shed in Calista''s eyes. A psychiatrist? That''s fast.


    On the way back, Calista bought a cell phone before they reached the house. Quincy wasn''t in, and Yelena opened the door herself. Seeing that Benedict had returned, she started fussing over him like a loving wife, andpletely ignored Calista. That was fine with Calista - she didn''t need this fake warmth anyway.


    When she saw that Calista had turned to leave, an evil glint shed in Yelena''s eyes, but she smiled gently and walked over to Calista. "Callie, don''t leave so quickly. Come over here and say hello to Dr. Larkin! He''s one of the best psychiatrists in this country!" Calista felt a small shudder down her spine.


    Dr. Larkin? Jonathan Larkin! She would never forget this scumbag! He had appeared earlier than she expected.


    Calista walked over to the living room, and there was a man standing there smiling, his face full of gentleness and politeness.


    This man...in her previous life, she was locked up in the house and was in deep despair! Back then Yelena had also found a psychiatrist for her, and it was this man, Jonathan!


    He was a psychiatrist alright, but he was also a famous pervert! He tried to seduce her, but failed. So he got her drugged to rape her.


    If she hadn''t threatened to jump down from her room, he would have gotten his way.


    But this was not the end of it - he was in cahoots with Yelena much earlier. Yelena had installed hidden cameras in Calista''s room, and Jonathan helped to release the footage online the next day, so all the major websites had nude videos of her. The video was titled "Heiress of XX Company Just Out From A Bath", and Benedict nearly had a stroke when he found out.


    Calista had a pretty face and a good figure, so even though Benedict tried to take the videos down, the videos just couldn''t stop circting. Jonathan had taken Yelena''s money and run overseas, so Yelena just pretended to cry and said she had judged his character wrongly, but what was the use of saying this now?


    Calista''s reputation had already gone down the drain after she had supposedly slept with two men at the Fairchild family party, and now it had reached a new low.


    Countless people started to spread rumors about how Calista would sleep with anybody who looked decent, making her a humiliation to the Staffords, and a lowlife among the wealthy daughters of Horington.


    Yelena was determined to destroy Calistapletely and made the world a horrible ce for her to live in, then let Calista be a footstool for her dear daughter.


    Calista found out about this because she happened to overhear a phone call between Yelena and Jonathan, where Yelena med Jonathan for not having sex with Calista, because if the video was a sex tape, then Calista would never be able to make aeback! This was when Calista realized how deeply evil this mother and daughter really were...This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    And now, this scumbag was right in front of her. What should she do? she started thinking.


    "Hello, my name is Jonathan, your psychiatric consultant."


    Jonathan was fairly good looking, in his thirties with a pleasant smile, and made people feel at ease with him quickly.


    Calista ignored the hand he offered, instead snorting with a raised eyebrow, "And who said you''re my psychiatrist?"


    Yelena quickly dragged Benedict over, and said with a worried face, "Callie, don''t be scared, Dr. Larkin is really good. Your current state is very dangerous, so he''se all the way to help you."


    "More like my current state puts YOU in danger right? Mrs. Stafford?"


    Benedict was unhappy to hear Calista address Yelena as Mrs. Stafford, but Yelena held him back, and continued to smile


    sympathetically. "No worries no


    worries, Callie can call me anything


    she likes! Callie, take Dr. Larkin to


    good chat


    your room and have a good


    with him!"


    Calista knew that there were definitely cameras in her room. This stepmother was so concerned that she couldn''t wait for Calista to be alone in the room with a strange man!


    Calistaughed and said, "You want to be my doctor? Sure, get me a cup of tea!"


    Benedict was unhappy when he heard this, "Callie, that''s very rude of you! Dr. Larkin is a guest!"


    Jonathan waved his hands to indicate that it was alright, then after a discreet exchange of nces with Yelena, he continued smiling and said, "Don''t worry about it, all girls this age are a little rebellious, I can understand!" He quickly poured a cup of tea out for Calista.


    Calista took the cup from him, and gave a little smile, "You''re absolutely right. Girls at my age are not just rebellious, but also...very temperamental!"


    She threw the water in the cup at Jonathan!


    Yelena gasped and Benedict started shouting at her, but somehow Jonathan did not lose his temper.


    There was a sh of anger in his eyes but he managed to keep smiling, "So can I be Ms. Stafford''s psychiatrist now?"


    He put on a caring face and said seriously, "I really want to help you."


    Most people would have softened when they saw Jonathan had such a sincere face, but to Calista, he was merely hrious! "Just a bit more."


    Calista curled her lips into a smile and then bent down to pick up the teapot, and sshed the contents of the teapot in his face. She felt much better when she saw the tea leaves sticking to his face.


    This time Jonathan was really angry - he had never felt insulted like this before!


    Yelena quickly rushed over to help Jonathan clean up, and also mouthed "I''ll add money" at him.


    Jonathan held it in for the sake of this additional fee, but Benedict couldn''t hold it in. "Calista! Have you gone crazy?!"


    Benedict was so angry that the finger he used to point at Calista was trembling. He''d never lost his temper like this before, but Calista was just too rude! Who would dare to be a guest in his house anymore?


    Calista remained strangely calm,


    smiling as she nced at Jonathan,


    ???


    then quietly said, "Dad you don''t get it, do you? thought psychiatric consultants were able to feel the pain of their patients. I sshed tea in his face, but I''m feeling deep fear and anxiety inside and I really need help. I believe Dr. Larkin can also feel my pain, and so you won''t get angry, right?"


    "You''re just being unreasonable!" Benedict was red in the face from anger.


    With his teeth clenched, Jonathan still managed to say, "Ms. Stafford is right! Many patients with emotional issues would do things that are the opposite of how they truly feel. can understand, and I will definitely help you to get well!"

 Chapter 29 The Secret Of The Voice Recorder

    At these words, Calista smiled demurely and put down the teapot.


    Just two seconds earlier everyone thought Calista was going to smash the teapot on Jonathan''s head, and Jonathan was relieved to see her put the teapot down. "You''ve passed the test, Dr. Larkin. I''ll be a good patient, and I believe you will have wonderful memories of your time with the Staffords!" Calista finished with a smile and went upstairs. Since this person was here, then...well there was plenty of time to deal with him.


    huge amount of money to her now!


    She checked her bank bnce and realized that Jarrett had acted pretty quickly, and there was really $1.2 million dors in the bank! This was Even though she would get fame and fortune after bing the Fairchilds'' goddaughter, she always remembered that Kallum still did not like seeing her around, so she had to show some aplishments first before getting his support, and only then could she get back at her enemies.


    So she''d have to spend this $1.2 million carefully.


    But there was something else that was more urgent to settle now!


    She picked up her phone and called Wanda.


    After picking up Calista''s call, Wanda was pleasantly surprised. She didn''t sound like she knew that the two scoundrels arrested that night were instigated by Quincy, otherwise she wouldn''t still be this calm and gentle. It was obvious that Wyatt had used his authority to cover up this matter so as to keep the reputations of both the Lin family and Quincy.


    Calista smiled and just threw the matter to the back of her mind. She didn''t intend to use what happened that night to confront Quincy. After all once the truth of the matter was revealed, all people cared about was whether that night''s n had worked or not, and wouldn''t think about anything else, so she decided to let Quincy off for the time being.


    She had called Wanda over a different matter.


    "Mrs. Fairchild, while running away from those bad guys, I dropped my phone in thepound of the annexe. Could you help me look for it? I have something very important inside."


    Wanda immediately agreed - this was the first time Callie had asked anything of her!


    Calistaughed and her tone was much gentler now. "I''lle over now ok? It''s really important, sorry to trouble you!"


    This small matter was no trouble at all!


    Wanda immediately ordered the servants to go out and find it, and promised that she would have found it by the time Calista arrived.


    Calista breathed a sigh of relief. Kallum should still be in the office, so she should be in time to find it before him.


    This was all because she talked too quickly the day before, just simply telling Kallum that there was a voice recorder on her cell phone, forgetting that while there was indeed a recording of Mirabelle asking her to make an aphrodisiac, there were many other recordings... When she thought about these other recordings, she became perplexed and ran out of the door.


    Over at Fairchild Manor, at the time Wanda had ordered the servants to find the phone, the butler had already passed the inconspicuous voice recorder to Kallum, who had just arrived home.


    Kallum hade back early just for this voice recorder. Calista said that she wasn''t the one who drugged him, and Mirabelle had approached her to make an aphrodisiac, so he had to at least confirm that part.


    But before he could listen to anything, he heard that Calista had arrived.


    When Calista realized what was in Kallum''s hands, she felt that she was about to explode.


    Her sparkling eyes grew wider, then she immediately calmed down. "Mr. Kallum, that''s mine, please return it to me."


    Kallum saw that Calista had run all the way to the Fairchild Manor just for this small thing, and a cheeky smile spread over his perfectly handsome face.


    "Isn''t this the evidence you provided me with? You''ve rushed all the way here in such a great hurry, is it because you''re hiding some other secrets inside here?"


    Calista walked nearer to him, trying


    to catch her breath as she said,


    "There are some results of my research over the years inside as


    well, and these are all confide aset


    ve


    information. I was too rash yesterday and forgot about those. As for evidence, it''s just a short recording and can''t prove much."


    "That''s not necessarily true," Kallum haughtily raised a brow. "Without this recording, there will be nothing stopping me from suspecting that you''re definitely the one who drugged me. You don''t want to prove your innocence anymore?" Calista pursed her lips and hesitated before hoarsely shouting, "I don''t care what you think, just give it back to me!"


    Kallum saw that this was a rare show of her emotions, and taunted her, "Come and get it."


    Calista saw that all the servants had left the living room, so she didn''t restrain herself and took two steps forward to snatch it out of Kallum''s hand.


    Kallum was prepared for this, so he just pulled his arm back out of her reach. Calista had lunged forward too hard and ended upnding in his arms.


    Kallum instinctively caught her round her waist. "If you''re so anxious, then I''d think you have some dirty secrets inside. Or perhaps, something to do with me."


    Calista''s face immediately turned to ice, shouting, "Give it to me!"


    She had tremendous strength, and Kallum was caught off guard and was pushed onto the sofa. But Kallum was still stronger than her, so he grabbed her and exchanged positions with her, so now she was under him, and he pressed down hard on her. This sudden closeness made Kallum start to feel warm again, but Calista did not feel the same at all, struggling to try to snatch the voice recorder back.


    "Stop it, enough!"


    Kallum frowned, and the cold fragrance from Calista went up his nostrils and became fire! When he saw her tender red lips just inches from him, he suddenly felt the urge to kiss her again. D*mn it! Perhaps he should really find a woman!


    Seeing that he was suddenly in a


    daze, Calista took this chance to


    snatch the voice recorder, but Kallum dodged her attack in time But in the process, Calista had hit a button on the recorder and suddenly there was sounding out from the recorder.


    "7th January, I saw him again. He''s so good looking, shining like the sun. If his light falls on me, it must be really warm right?"


    That longing voice belonged to Calista - so this voice recorder had Calista''s diary entries?


    This sudden turn of events shocked both of them, especially Calista, who suddenly stopped making a grab for the recorder when she heard this yearning voice... that was the time when she was the most naive.


    But this one dazed minute would result in her kicking herself for not reacting faster.


    "9th March, I saw him again. Kallum''s lips are so pretty...I wish I could lick them, I think they would taste like honey."


    These shy yet sensual words suddenly shocked Calista awake! She had unfortunately opened the ylist of recordings about Kallum!


    And the contents of the recordings...


    The moment she started making a move, Kallum moved too. He put on a wide smile, shining like the sun.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    "Oho, so you wanted to forcibly kiss me from so long ago? I never knew you were so lecherous!"


    Calista wasn''t in the mood to joke with him! She was going to destroy this evidence, NOW!


    Seeing that her reaction was so violent, Kallum used his body weight to press Calista down on the sofa and used one hand to press both ker hands above her head. Calista was surprised at how strong Kallum was, but this was not important now! The bigger problem now was that the d*mned recordings were still


    ying!


    "I heard that husband and wife would share the same bed, and do what the biology textbooks describe...will I...do that with him in the future too?"

 Chapter 30 Return It To Me

    Kallum was stunned for a while, then he broke out inughter.


    "Calista, I''m really interested to know which biology textbook taught you this sort of thing!"


    Kallum''s mockingughter made Calista''s usually cold face turn bright red. "Argh! Return it to me!"


    Perhaps because she was too agitated, she suddenly felt a burst of energy and she managed to turn both of them around, and pressed down on Kallum instead. But Kallum''s arms and legs were too long, and the voice recorder remained out of reach.


    He startedughing loudly, his eyes shining brighter and brighter. "So these are the dirty thoughts of a young girl? What else is there? Having children with me?"


    Just as he said so, the recordings reached that topic. "If...I have a child with him, the child will definitely be really good looking right? Sigh...when can I marry him?"


    Kallum''s expression became even cheekier, and he opened his mouth to mock her even harder when Calista took courage and suddenly bent down to jam that foul mouth of his!


    Time suddenly stopped... Calista took the chance as he suddenly went into a daze. She finally took the voice recorder from his hands and shut it off.


    Her kiss made his heart stop, and her fragrance continually filled his body, and those small and soft lips...it was just a kiss but he started feeling aroused again!


    Kallum was afraid she''d realize this, so he turned Calista over again and knelt directly on her.


    He was suddenly filled with anger, looking down at the bold woman below him and suddenlyughed. "You like to kiss? Fine! I''ll satisfy your wish!"


    Then he pressed down hard on her lips, kissing her possessively and sucking the breath out of her.


    His passion made them exchange breaths, entangled with one another.


    Calista''s eyes suddenly opened wide - Kallum had taken the initiative to kiss her? No it couldn''t be, it was a counter attack like this morning. Anyway she had gotten what she wanted already, why should she be subject to his bullying?


    She tried to get up but Kallum caught hold of her hands. She tried to move her legs but they were stuck too! She could only lie there as Kallum forcibly kissed her, and all the struggling and resisting only made him kiss her harder. She didn''t want any of this!


    Calista turned her head away and angrily said, "Let go of me! Don''t you hate me? Who said you can kiss me?"


    Kallum was annoyed at her refusal to cooperate. Her kiss was so sweet and she smelled so good. Besides, she was the one who kept challenging him, so why couldn''t he attack her back?


    The crazed look in his eyes made him look even sexier, like a bewitching fairy, as he hoarsely replied, "Only you can forcibly kiss me but I can''t do that to you? Why!"


    He came down hard on Calista''s lips and used one hand to keep her head from turning aside, the rest of his body pressing down on her so she couldn''t escape.


    Calista was furious! Why did kiss her even though he hated her? Did he think she was still an easy target to bully like before?


    A fierce look shed in Calista''s eyes and she stopped struggling for a while. Then she used her limbs to climb onto him, stunning Kallum. Calista then grinned as she hooked both arms around his neck and dragged him into a strange dance... You want to kiss me so much? Then I''ll let you kiss to death!


    Since Kallum hated her so much, she was sure Kallum would hate her more if she took this initiative.


    She wanted to disgust him to death!


    This sort of French kissing was a first for both of them.


    Calista''s immature but domineering positionpletely destroyed Kallum''s reasoning power. He grabbed Calista''s waist even tighter, and suddenly a fire was lit in his previously dark eyes.


    Kallum felt himself really aroused, and he pushed her aside, slightly embarrassed. Both of them panted as they red at each other, neither wanting to give in.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "What? You don''t want to kiss anymore? Or you want to go one level further?"


    Calista taunted him by pretending she didn''t care. He just pushed her away like that? Looks like he really did hate her very much!


    But Calista didn''t expect that her words sounded more like an invitation to Kallum.


    He narrowed his eyes at her, then suddenly ripped open two buttons of his shirt, and threatened, "You asked for it! I''ll give it to you!"


    He bit on Calista''s lips, and this time Calista did not hold back and bit him right back!


    Both of them were trying to get the upper hand but they held each other tighter and tighter, their breathing, heavier and heavier, and Calista asionally whimpered in pain, sending chills down Kallum''s spine!


    swnovel


    He began to lose control of himself, ready to take her there and then on the sofa!


    Calista started to feel that something was wrong, and this strange longing was taking over her body, sucking the energy out of her and she felt weak and limp.


    So irritating! Did Kallum have to go this far just to get back at her?


    "What are the two of you doing!"


    Wanda''s furious voice suddenly snapped the two of them back to reality. What WERE they doing?!


    Kallum immediately got up, and Wanda''s expression turned from anger to vexation when she realized the other person was Calista.


    What has she done! Wanda thought...she thought Kallum was with another woman...but it turned out to be Callie?!


    This pleasant surprise made Wanda suddenly forget all the conservative things she originally meant to say.


    She slowly started taking a step backwards as she said, "It''s alright, I didn''t know it was the both of you...carry on! Carry on! I didn''t see anything!" Calista felt her face on fire, and Kallum was ring even more angrily at his mother.


    Wanda began to feel that her son was angry because she had interrupted him at a bad time and became apologetic, but still quietly said


    in embarrassment before


    walking away, "Oh my, the young people these days are really crazy!"


    After she walked away, Calista got up from the sofa and turned to leave, but Kallum grabbed her hand. "What, you''re leaving just like that?"


    Calista shot him a dirty look. Her face was still red, and her re actually made Kallum go weak at the knees.


    "If not? Mr. Kallum is so thirsty, you want to continue even with someone you hate?"


    Kallum''s Adam''s apple trembled and he clenched his teeth in silence. He really did want to continue - d*mn it, he thought. Did Calista drug him or something?


    Calista had pushed his hand away


    and coldly continued, "I hope you can go and exin to Mrs. Fairchild that what she saw was a


    neo


    misunderstanding. I want to be the Fairchilds'' goddaughter! I don''t want herto have any false hopes


    Kallum sourly thought, you''re kinder to my Mom than to me.


    He was annoyed at this point and didn''t want to go along with Calista. "Misunderstanding? You go tell her yourself! Tell her how you''ve been seducing me again and again!" Calista''s face grew colder. "Seduce? If you didn''t want it, how could I seduce you? Or have you be addicted after just one kiss and you don''t want to draw the line clearly with me anymore?" Kallum arrogantly harrumphed, "Why do you care!"


    There was no point in continuing this conversation!


    Calista held her silence for a while, then turned and left.


    On the way back, she thought to herself that earlier he didn''t seem to be faking it, and Calista closed her eyes.


    Calista, please. Have you forgotten how cruel this man was to you in your previous life? He didn''t fall for you after more than twenty years, and you want to fall into the same trap this time round?

 Chapter 31 Let Me Bring You Somewhere Fun

    Calista tightened her grip on the voice recorder. She will not!


    Earlier sexual arousal was just a natural biological response - she knew very well what she wanted in this life. With this thought, she slowly opened her eyes again, and she regained herposure. The next urgent task at hand was to move out of the house. She didn''t fancy being watched round the clock.


    When she got back, Benedict wasn''t home and was likely to be at work. Yelena and Jonathan weren''t around either. Instead Wyatt, who should have been at work, was here talking to Quincy.


    Quite obviously Quincy had gone out earlier in the afternoon to look for Wyatt to y the nice cousin, but Calista wasn''t sure why Wyatt ended uping back with Quincy, and she didn''t care, so she headed upstairs.


    "Calista, wait up," Wyatt suddenly called out after her.


    He called her while giving Quincy a nce. He was here to try reconciling the two sisters.


    "Sis..."


    Quincy didn''t like doing this, but in order to make Wyatt believe her, she put on her most pitiful face and walked over. "I''m really sorry about what happened, those two...I know them yes, but you remember I quarreled with you before that? After that I just said some nasty things to them out of spite, but I didn''t expect them to take my words seriously and do something so horrible to you. I didn''t instruct them or anything like that! Please believe me!"


    Calista had one hand on the hand railings, and she calmly nced at her, "That''s how you deceived Wyatt?"


    Quincy was stunned for a few moments. She thought that Calista wouldn''t say such pointed things with outsiders around! "Sis! I know you''re angry with me, but how can you say that about me? Am I such an evil and scheming person?"


    Quincy looked at Wyatt with pain on her face, as if trying to tell him how Calista was so unreasonable, so unfriendly, and she was so helpless against this.


    Wyatt frowned, "Calista, Quincy is your younger sister. Why do you hold such a grudge against her? She''s still a child!"


    "A child..."


    Calista repeated this word spitefully. Back then it had never crossed her mind that a seventeen year old Quincy could be so vicious either.


    But since Wyatt had chosen to believe Quincy, Calista couldn''t be bothered with him and went upstairs.


    Back then her grandfather had left another important thing for Calista besides those invaluable out-of-print books. He had left her two sets of silver needles, one set had 81 needles, the other had 48 needles.


    The set with 81 needles were split into three smaller sets, and Calista was now only able to use the first 32 needles, but that was enough.


    When she thought about the illness Jarrett''s brother had, Calista hesitated for a few moments before taking seven needles with her as well as all the cash she had, then left the house.


    Quincy was still crying and talking to Wyatt, but when he saw that Calista had walked out of the door, he also stood up and went after her.


    Quincy looked confused, so Wyatt whispered, "You wait here, I''ll make sure Calista believes you!"


    After that he went running after Calista.


    "Why did you follow me?" Calista asked him with an eyebrow raised.


    Wyatt replied awkwardly, "Where are you going? I was about to leave anyway, so I can send you there."


    Calista knew it was hard to get a cab here, so she agreed. After getting into the car, Wyatt became even more careful with his words.


    He didn''t really know why he insisted on following her. He just felt that Calista was prejudiced against him, and he wanted to remove this prejudice.


    So he started, "Those two men have


    received their sentences. Initially their families tried to get them a lighter sentence and they were first sentenced to only twenty years in prison. But Mr. Kallum interfered and


    so they got life imprisonment."


    Calista was stunned and didn''t reply, instead just grunting and then she said, "Send me to the Rental Housing Center."


    "Why do you want to go there?" Wyatt frowned and continued, "You...even if you''re on bad terms with my aunt, there''s no need to move out!"


    Calista didn''t want to bother


    answering him, but then a thought suddenly crossed her mind, making her curl, ker lips up into a smile and she smiled meaningfully at Wyatt. "You


    2 to know why I want to


    move? Sure, I''ll tell you, but you have


    to help me out first."


    Wyatt went into a panic when she suddenly moved closer to him, making the car nearly crash into another one. Whatever Calista wanted him to do, it couldn''t be anything good.


    Calista didn''t care what he thought and continued, "If you can find out for me where Yelena is right now, I''ll tell you why I want to move out. Her car number te is HZ 55555, not difficult to check right?" Wyatt furrowed his brows. "What are you trying to do?"


    "What am I trying to do?"


    An evil glint shed in Calista''s eyes and her smile became more and more wicked, "Of course I''m going to do something really interesting..."


    Wyatt went to check anyway, his police rank making it easy to check. He found out the car wasst seen near Indigo Gardens.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    Calista smiled mysteriously upon hearing this. "I know where that is. Come on, Officer Langley, let me bring you somewhere for some fun!"


    Wyatt hesitated at first, but since he had already started on this road of no return, he couldn''t just back out. What he didn''t understand was why he couldn''t say no to Calista. Thest time it was like that, and now was no different.


    Yelena had a bungalow in Indigo


    Gardens, and while Benedict definitely had no idea about this


    house, Calista knew. This was the house which Calista was trapped in for three months after she tried to escape in her previous life. After they captured her, they


    wn


    incapacitated her right hand and beat her until she waspletely


    covered in bruises.


    When she thought of what happened back then, Calista smiled serenely. It looked serene, but there was much meaning behind it.


    If she hadn''t threatened to die when she was attacked, she was sure they wouldn''t have just beat her and locked her up...


    Because she was thinking about her tragic past, there was a spiteful aura surrounding Calista that made Wyatt feel ufortable sitting beside her. There were many things he wanted to say but wasn''t able to, and it was dead silence in the car. When Calista saw therge lotus flowers, she suddenly said, "We''re here."


    Wyatt looked out of the window and the smell of lotus flowers hit his nostrils. Next to the pond of lotus flowers stood a beautiful bungalow, and it looked very expensive.


    Calista got him to park the car a little further away, then they headed for the bungalow together.


    "You''re a rich man''s son, but you''ve been properly trained at the police academy, right?" Calista suddenly asked.


    Wyatt nodded. He graduated from the academy with the best results and wasn''t going to let Calista look down on him!


    Calista smiled but didn''t let him barge into the bungalow, instead dragging him under a tree next to the house.


    "Over there, you see that security rm? Take it down!"


    Wyatt started dismantling the rm, but also asked, "This belongs to your family, right?"


    He was afraid Calista was making him trespass private property again.


    Calista saw that he had a number of tools on him, and casually replied, "Strictly speaking, this is Yelena''s property."


    Wyatt was stunned for a while, but then went back to dismantling the security rm.


    After that, Calista got Wyatt to continue dismantling other security rms. Wyatt was surprised that this fairly small house had five hidden security rms, and Calista knew exactly where each of them was located.

 Chapter 32 Complete Shock

    How could she not know? Back then when she tried to escape, these things nearly spelled the end for her.


    After they were all removed, Calista stood at the doorstep, closed her eyes and listened intently.


    Because she had trained for many years regrly, when she quietened her heart, she was able to hear any sounds within 150 feet.


    After a period of listening, she bent down to unlock the door with very nimble movements. She was so familiar that Wyatt was ready to arrest and interrogate her for criminal activity!


    After the two of them went in, they took light steps up to the second floor - one was trained in Chinese martial arts, the other trained in mixed martial arts, so they were very suitable for spying on others!


    Initially Wyatt still had his suspicions, but once he heard familiar voices, he stopped in his tracks.


    This familiar voice - this was his aunt''s voice!


    She...was having an extramarital affair!


    Wyatt looked at Calista''s expression, to find that she looked as if she already knew. His face was still in shock when she suddenly flung a small stone down the stairs.


    There was a loud crash as the tall blue vase downstairs broke into pieces.


    "Who is it!" Yelena''s panicked voice rang out. Wyatt had no choice but to drag Calista to quickly hide in a corner.


    Yelena and a man immediately came out of the room. They saw that the vase downstairs was broken and went downstairs to see what had happened, and Calista took this chance to boldly drag Wyatt into the room and rolled themselves under the bed. Wyatt waspletely shocked!


    The bedsheets were so long that they were dragging along the floor - how did Calista know that there was space under the bed? That was not the right question! The right question was, why did they even have to enter this room?


    Before Wyatt could do anything, he could hear footsteps, then Yelena''s coy voice, "Don''t worry, it''s probably some stray cat. I''ve installed security rms all over this bungalow, so no humans would be able to enter!"


    Jonathan''s voice answered, "I still think something''s not quite right, I think we''d better leave..."


    "Don''t go..." Yelena qualified as a cougar at this age, and she was definitely not letting go of this good looking man in front of her.


    She pulled Jonathan onto the bed, and Wyatt''s face turned red under the bed. He wasn''t sure if he was feeling embarrassed by this or just in angry.


    Calista was busy recording everything down on her voice recorder and didn''t notice Wyatt''s expression. All she could hear was the two on the bed having sex, and Yelena suddenly shouting out, "You''re so good! So much better than Benedict!" Jonathanughed and said, "If he knew why you came looking for me, he''s going to have a stroke!"


    Yelena was enjoying herself as she coldly said, "As long as you make sure you have sex with that sl*t Calista, then you''d be worth every penny I''ve spent to hire you. As for the rest, don''t bother..."


    Jonathan''s amorous voice replied, "Sure! You''ve given me money and yourself...I will get this matter done! After I''ve finished filming myself with Calista in bed, remember to blur my face out!" "Don''t worry about that..e on you bloody b*stard, use more strength..." Yelena panted between moans.


    After hearing this, Wyatt was so angry he was about to crawl out from under the bed to beat up this man! How dare he try to touch Calista!


    But before he could make any moves, Calista reached over and used one hand to hold his clenched fist, as if she knew what he was thinking, and used her other hand to send a text.


    Wyatt was taken by surprise, and the grip of her soft hands turned his anger to another emotion...


    His face became warm and he didn''t understand what was happening to himself. The shaking of the bed made his heart shake along, making his emotions unstable.


    Suddenly Jonathan''s cell phone rang on the bedside table and even though he didn''t want to check the phone, he stole a nce and realized it was a text message from Calista and he stopped what he was doing. Yelena unhappily said, "Is it that mistress of yours again? Can''t you concentrate?"


    Jonathan read the text and then smiled gleefully, "I knew it - nobody can escape my charm! Your eldest daughter hase looking for me!"


    Yelena snatched the phone to see, "Oh my! Couldn''t tell that this little sl*t is this shameless, asking you to meet her at a hotel!" Jonathan started getting dressed quickly. "She said if I''m not there in 30 minutes she''ll leave, so we''ll continue another time!"


    But what really ran through his mind was, since he had been invited by a young and pretty girl, who would prefer this cougar?


    Yelena was a bit annoyed about this, but once she considered the n she had already started, she started wearing her clothes too. "Ok! Let''s go together, I want to see what this stupid girl is up to!" After the two of them had left, Calista crawled out from under the bed.


    She waved the phone in her hand, very satisfied with what she had gathered from this trip.


    Wyatt looked at Calista with mixed feelings and asked, "You already knew that my aunt was plotting something against you? Are you handing this recording to her husband?"


    Calista shot him a calm look and


    Wyatt was shocked by this realization - his aunt had hidden so much from them!


    The Lins had been tricked all along!


    Wyatt was shocked, but then suddenly he thought of something and asked curiously, "But why did you tell me? Aren''t you afraid I''d tell on you?"


    Calista looked at him andughed


    coldly, "You''re one of the Lins with a conscience, and since you will be the head of the family in the future. I wanted to show you her true colors. It''s better than being tricked by her forever and then you''d stand on her side." And attack me, thoughtThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org: ?.


    Calista.


    So she was going to pull out the teeth and ws of that mother and daughter pair one by one, right from the source.


    Wyatt still didn''t understand. "My aunt...who is backing her? You seem quite wary, and why does this person want to help her?"


    Yelena was just an illegitimate daughter of the Lins, and he couldn''t think of which big shot would be willing to help her, and what this person might be up to.


    Calista narrowed her eyes and said,


    "You will know, when the time is


    right. Also, the current head, your


    grandfather, already knows


    everything about Yelena. So I''d advise you to just bear in mind what sort of person Yelena is, and don''t do anything hasty and get me into trouble. In exchange, I''ll tell you a secret."


    Calista looked directly at him as she spoke, and Wyatt''s confused brain suddenly stopped working, filled with nothing but the sparkles in Calista''s eyes, and even forgot to breathe.


    Calista took Wyatt''s silence to mean consent, so she ambled over and whispered in his ear, "Tomorrow night at Dragonbane Port, South Horington...some goods will arrive! Believe me - the amount of goods will be enough for you to get promoted by a few levels!"


    The cold fragrance from her body made Wyatt take a deep breath, then he felt his body go limp and his heart suddenly thump very loudly!


    He stumbled backwards by arge step and untangled himself from this invisible temptation.


    Calista looked at him with a puzzled face, and Wyatt quickly looked away. "How do you know about this?"


    His mind was a mess at this moment, and he had no idea what on earth he was saying at all.

 Chapter 33 Bold And Also Crazy

    Calista didn''t think too much about why he was behaving like this, and just crossed her arms as she said, "That''s a secret. Tomorrow''s goods are connected to the Sinir family, so I''d advise you to bring more men." There was a little evil smile slowly spreading across her face as she said so.


    My dear Jarrett - since you''re most afraid of leaving a criminal record, I''ll have to send you a surprise gift then.


    She had no idea that her behavior had made Wyatt''s heart beat even faster, and he was really puzzled by himself - he had always hated women who were scheming, and his image of Calista was that she was indeed scheming, but somehow he still wanted to draw close to her and couldn''t find it in himself to say no to her.


    What drugs did she give him?!


    Calista was still confused when she alighted from the car. Wyatt was still behaving normally earlier, but once he had driven the car back to the city center, he had suddenly said he had to attend to some matters and got her to get out of the car in the middle of nowhere. But Calista didn''t dwell too long on it. She went to the Housing Rental Center and rented a ce with one bedroom, and then went to buy some clothes and necessities, and it was almost dark by the time she returned to the Shang house.


    The moment she reached home, she saw Benedict seated at the dining table.


    Calista was still unsure of her feelings towards Benedict. He was biased, but he was still her father.


    "You actually remembered toe home!" Yelena was furious.


    In the afternoon she and Jonathan had run over to the hotel in a hurry to find that Calista had yed them out!


    Calista ignored her and sat down at the table, picked up her bowl and started eating, but the other three looked at her without moving. "Why are you looking at me? Aren''t you all hungry?"


    Benedict frowned. His elder daughter was suffering from some mental health issues and he couldn''t just leave it alone. So he said, "Callie, I know your condition is a little special, but you can''t refuse treatment and then y Dr. Larkin out like that right?" Calista continued eating with her head bent low, and this way of ignoring everyone around her was very simr to how she used to be.


    Yelena found that the more she looked at Calista, the more she felt that she must be possessed, but she wasn''t going to let today''s matter go!


    She spoke in an authoritative voice, "I have already arranged for Dr. Larkin toe tomorrow afternoon. I know you like to go out and have fun, but you must be at home at 3 p.m. tomorrow!"


    The chopsticks in Calista''s hand stopped moving, and then she smiled knowingly, directing her sparkling eyes at Yelena, and the cold stare pierced deep into Yelena''s heart. "Sure, as long as you agree to one thing, I''ll ept the treatment." Benedict saw that Calista was willing to cooperate and was overjoyed. "Go ahead and tell me!"


    "Dad, Mrs. Fairchild says she''s not feeling well, and seeing that I know a bit about medicine, she''s asked me to stay with the Fairchilds for a few days to apany her."


    Everyone else at the table exchanged weird nces.


    Yelena asked a little nervously, "Not at home again? How long are you going to be there?"


    If she stayed outside for too long, how was she going to film Calista in the nude?


    Calista smiled and replied, "Not too long, just seven days."


    Yelena breathed a sigh of relief and thought, seven days it is - my n will still go through even after waiting for seven days.


    But she added, "You can go over tonight, but you must return tomorrow afternoon, because it''s very hard to get an appointment with Dr. Larkin."


    Benedict also quickly chipped in, "Come back tomorrow afternoon and see Dr. Larkin, it won''t take up too much time, I''m sure the Fairchilds are understanding enough."


    Calista thought about what needed to be done the next night and nodded, "In that case I''ll go over only from the day after tomorrow."


    Yelena and Benedict both breathed a sigh of relief. It was rare to see Calista so gentle, so they dare not say anything that might agitate her. Only Quincy spotted the little smirk on Calista''s face, and it made her hair stand on end.


    But then she thought about how Calista would never be able to face the world again after Jonathanpletes his mission, and then the Stafford family will have only one daughter - Quincy!


    Calista lowered her eyes and went back to eating. She could guess their hearts even without thinking.


    Yelena was going to push back her ns to drug her and film her nude a weekter, but she was going to settle Jonathan within the week!


    Calista ate and thought coldly, which method would be more exciting to deal a blow to this jerk?


    The next night, the night was dark and strong winds blew.


    Calista slipped out of the Shang house and ran for the jetty.


    The Sinirs wanted to wash their hands of all illegal businesses and had rejected several opportunities to do such deals, but they were not ready to let go of illegal weapons yet. And since the amount tonight was fairlyrge, she was sure that Jarrett would make an appearance.


    When she thought about how Wyatt would suddenly interrupt this major operation, she got a little excited. Jarrett''s expression would be priceless for sure - how could she miss this?N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Calista was very nimble from her years of practice, plus her heightened sense of sight and hearing, and she made her way easily into the heavily guarded jetty in the cover of the night, and bided her time.


    Just then, arge ship approached the jetty.


    It was here!


    Calista knew about this matter


    because in her previous life, there was a shootout here and after a long period of police investigation, they found out that it was two groups of people fighting over the same lot of firearms. Later she also heard that one group was from the Sinir family, but there was no hard


    evidence and it was merely a guess.


    So tonight she was going to make sure Jarrett bore all the guilt!


    The moment the ship docked, many men came to move the goods, and suddenly manyrge trucks barged into the jetty, creating a scene.


    Calista hid behind therge row of


    shelves and saw that after the trucks had barged in, they started firing their guns, and a gunfight began right in front of her eyes, with real bullets and the sound of people getting killed. The gunshots were fired in quick session, and since this was the first time Calista had ever witnessed something like this, she suddenly started getting excited for some reason.


    She was waiting for Wyatt to arrive. As far as she knew, Wyatt had already made arrangements earlier in the day, and if they arrived now, they''d seize both the culprits and their goods!


    In the midst of the gunshots, Calista could see many peopleing out from the shadows to counterattack.


    The intruder had not expected Jarrett to be prepared for this intrusion and was in a panic. But it was toote to run now...


    It was obvious that one side had the


    upper hand, Jarrett watched from the side coldly. He knew someone was going to try to intercept his


    goods tonight, so he purpose


    waited for them so he could take this chance to wipe these enemies out.


    Everything was well within his ns, but suddenly they were surrounded by the sound of police sirens!


    The sound of the chopper rotor could be heard, and two choppers came flying over the scene, shining bright lights down and scattering the fighting below. A voice came over the chopper loudspeakers, echoing through the whole jetty. "You have been surrounded! You have been surrounded! Put down your weapons! Put down your weapons!"


    They were surrounded? That was impossible! The operation tonight couldn''t have been leaked - where the heck did these policee from?


    Jarrett was originally watching a good show, but now his expression darkened. Everyone at the jetty started running in all directions, because they knew what awaited them if they got arrested!


    In the mess, someone started pulling Jarrett from behind. "Mr. Jarrett, this way!"


    Jarrett was still unsure of the situation and ran out with him, only to find that every exit from this huge jetty was jammed with police cars!


    This was definitely an ambush!


    Jarrett''s expression turned cold, texting while he fumed, "We''ve been betrayed by someone among us!"

 Chapter 34 Plan Failed

    His subordinate was already pale from fear. "This is not the time to talk about this! We''re doomed if we get arrested!"


    "We won''t!" Jarrett clenched his teeth. "There''s still the secret passageway!"


    They sprinted towards the shelves where Calista was.


    She was determined to send Jarrett to the police, and since they had run in this direction, she guessed they had some hidden escape route.


    She gave a wicked smile, then flipped the switch on her rape rm device, and threw it in their direction.


    The high pitched wail of the device terrified the subordinate protecting Jarrett!


    "Over there!" The police started running in the direction of the sound.


    Left with no choice, Jarrett had to give up using the secret passageway and run in a different direction from everyone else. He had never been at such a loss before! Jarrett ran towards the warehouse and thought he saw the shadow that had thrown the rm device earlier! D*mn it! If I catch that b*stard he''s going to die!


    Calista hadn''t expected Jarrett to be so sharp, but she wasn''t easy to catch either!


    Calista ran and texted Wyatt at the same time, swiftly gliding her way around the warehouse like a ghost.


    It was very noisy outside, but dead silent inside the warehouse. "Come out!"


    Jarrett''s cold and angry voice made Calista be even more excited. She couldn''t wait to see if he could remain this fierce once Wyatt appeared.


    Jarrett''s eyes were bright in the darkness of the night - he couldn''t see clearly in the day and so he wore spectacles, but he had excellent night vision, which Calista had not expected.


    She only found it strange that even though she was definitely moving faster than Jarrett, he was always able to catch up with her and she just couldn''t shake him off.


    BANG! Calista had just stuck her head out to check and he fired a shot! If she was that split second too slow, she would have been hit.


    Calista turned and ran!


    Jarrett wasn''t too slow himself either, and was better at running than her, so he caught up with her very quickly.


    To Jarrett, the night was as clear as day, but because Calista was all covered up, he did not recognize her.


    Calista used one leg to kick the gun out of Jarrett''s hands, but because she was weaker in attacking despite being nimble, she could only keep hiding and dodging. Jarrett only felt that this petite person was very familiar. That mild fragrance and agile body were so familiar but he couldn''t ce it.


    But since this person was after his life, he did not go soft, instead attacking more and more aggressively, and every stab of his dagger was meant to kill.


    Finally his dagger slit the clothes of his opponent. His eyes focused and he realized his opponent was a woman!


    The police had finally arrived on scene!


    Jarrett stopped moving when he heard the noise, so Calista took this chance and kicked Jarrett onto the floor, and then quickly took off in the dark.


    Wyatt heard the noise and ran towards it with his gun ready to shot. The warehouse was surrounded by a hundred policemen or so, so it was just a matter of time before they caught Jarrett. Wyatt couldn''t believe how bold Calista was! Did she know how dangerous these people were? These were people who were not afraid to die, and she dared toe here!


    Wyatt didn''t know why he was so worried - all he thought about was how that girl with a prickly personality might be hurt or even killed! The hand holding his gun suddenly felt unsteady. Calista...nothing must happen to her!


    Jarrett was furious after falling into Calista''s trap! He had never offended any woman in his life, and he never thought he''d die at the hands of one!


    "Listen, whoever''s inside! Put down your weapon ande out and surrender! You have been surrounded!"


    Jarrett anxiously hid himself in the warehouse. His white shirt had long turned ck all because of that d*mned woman!


    Calista alsoy somewhere in the darkness, breathing hard. Jarrett was a strong opponent - if not for the fact she knew some Kungfu and was able to remain calm throughout, worse things would have happened to her.


    But so what if he was strong? One person couldn''t defeat so many people by himself, so she was going to see how this man was going to get out of this trap! Suddenly another voice was heard - arge group of men in suits went straight for Wyatt''s superior.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Calista narrowed her eyes - was someone here to save Jarrett at this juncture?


    The man who approached Wyatt''s superior, Jasper Wright, was one of Kallum''s executive assistants, and Jasper openly addressed him, "Mr Parker, we have received a reliable tip that the man we want is here, and we are now searching for him."


    Levi Parker said, "Then you''ve made a mistake. The person you want is not here. I have just heard from Mr. Kallum that someone has escaped by boat, and that''s the boss of me Fangs!"


    "What!" Jasper nearly copsed when he heard this. The head of me Fangs hadmitted countless crimes and he had wanted to arrest him long ago, but never got the chance. Today was his chance! After thanking Levi, he rounded up his men to go, and told Wyatt to tidy up any loose ends.


    Wyatt hid the shock in his heart, and he was d he had not told Jasper that tonight''s deal was connected to the Sinirs, but he didn''t expect that it wasn''t just connected to the Sinirs, but also connected to the Fairchilds!


    He scanned therge warehouse. If the Fairchilds were here, then Calista should be safe, right?


    "What''s going on?" asked Wyatt after Jasper''s men had left and he got his own men to put their guns down.


    Wyatt continued, "Someone told me Jarrett is here. The Sinirs and the Fairchilds don''t have anything to do with one another - why did you help him?"


    Before Levi could reply, Jarrett walked out, his handsome face twisted in the dark light. His ragged self shocked both Wyatt and Levi!


    Jarrett ignored the gun in Wyatt''s hand, and asked in a murderous voice, "I want to know too - who got this information and who told you I was here?"


    A few men came running from behind Levi, and the leader of them went over to help Jarrett to stand properly. "Mr. Jarrett, are you ok?"


    "Give me a gun."


    Jarrett said those four words so coldly, as if he was frozen. His subordinate did not ask and immediately gave him a gun. Jarrett took the gun and scanned the area behind him. "Turn on the floodlights! There''s a little mouse in here, get her!" Seeing that Jarrett did not have any good intentions, Wyatt grew anxious. "You want to kill someone in front of me?"


    "I don''t just want to kill that person, I''m going to kill you too!"


    The switch was pulled and all the lights turned on. Jarrett''s men ran to find the person he wanted, but Jarrett aimed his gun at Wyatt when he saw him try to move.


    "Tell me, who told you this!" Levi saw this and immediately tried to mediate the situation.


    "Mr. Jarrett, don''t act rashly. Mr. Wyatt knows what he''s doing, and he didn''t tell anybody else that you''re here."


    How did he expect him to stay calm?!


    He had suffered a great loss today, he now owed the Fairchilds a huge favor for saving him, and till now he didn''t even know who his opponent earlier was! He was all ready to kill someone now! Suddenly there was a noise from behind the cartons, and Jarrett fired a shot. He saw that person run out and so he started his chase!

 Chapter 35 A Woman Full Of Needles

    She was surrounded on three sides, so Calista was finally caught. But strangely enough, she wasn''t afraid at all because she still had a trump card in her hands - Jarrett''s younger brother. In fact, she had way too many trump cards.


    She gripped one needle between her two fingers, turned and saw Jarrett''s murderous face! "Go ahead and run! Aren''t you really good at running?"


    Jarrett held up the gun to shoot her legs. Calista curled her lips slightly and said, "If I were you, I wouldn''t do that."


    Jarrett narrowed his eyes and looked with a face of disbelief at Calista. This voice! So this woman was...


    Calista removed her mask.


    Jarrett suddenly felt his breathing be heavy. He''d never thought he wouldnd in Calista''s hands! What a terrible irony!


    But the next minute, Jarrett pressed the gun against her head, his eyes zing with fury! "Why did you do this!"


    Jarrett never thought that even though he was extremely angry, he also felt hurt and bitter at the same time, and this strange feeling in his heart made him unable to just kill her with one shot.


    Calista looked at him in the eye fearlessly. "I''m helping you...there''s a traitor in the Sinir family. Even if you get your hands on this batch of firearms, after a month, your second uncle will take these to revolt against the family and kill a lot of people, so I''m just sending these firearms to where they rightfully belong. What did I do wrong?"


    She wasn''t lying - the shootout within the family even reached the city and caused the death of a few dozen people.


    Her original intention was to make life difficult for Jarrett, but it wasn''t a bad idea to save some people at the same time.


    Jarrett should have asked something like ''How did you know'' or even just simply not believe her words, but what Calista did not expect was that Jarrett only whacked her head twice with the gun and asked angrily, "Then why did you try to harm me just now?!"


    Since she knew everything, then didn''t she know that if he were arrested tonight, he might notnd in jail but it would ruin the rest of his life? Why did she have to harm him like that?


    Calista threw him a look and thenughed wickedly. "I just don''t like your face, ok?"


    This answer made Jarrett bloodshot from fury!


    He gripped the gun even harder and used his other hand to pull Calista''s cor and pulled her right in front of him, forcing her to stare right into his eyes.


    "You were the one who told Wyatt about tonight''s operation, right? How did you know my n? How do you know my second uncle is going to turn on me? You''d better exin yourself now, otherwise I''ll kill you!" Calista looked icily at Jarrett whose face was mere inches away from her face. "Why don''t you try killing me then?"


    "You!"


    Calista stared back as fiercely! Looks like Jarrett still hasn''t figured out what''s the situation now, she thought to herself. At this time he needed information from her, so he should have the attitude of someone who needs something. She knew that he wouldn''t kill her because she knew about the betrayal.


    And even if this didn''t work, he would tolerate everything for the sake of his younger brother!


    "Mr. Jarrett!" Wyatt quickly walked over. "This whole thing started with your family, Calista did not do anything wrong. If you dare to touch her..."


    He held up the voice recorder in his hands and said in a serious voice, "Then I''ll have to expose everything you''ve done tonight. There''ll be plenty of people who can''t wait to bring you down."


    Calista shot a nce at Wyatt. She was surprised - while it was true that she had used him quite a bit, she didn''t expect him to stand up for her at the risk of offending the Sinirs. Levi stood at the side and tried to advise him as well, "Mr. Jarrett, Ms. Stafford is the fianc¨¦e of Mr. Kallum, so it''s better if you don''t behave like this."


    Jarrett red coldly at Calista andughed as he asked, "So these people are why you have the guts to be so bold? I tell you now - if I want you to die, I don''t care who the hell you are!" Even though he was ring so intently at her, Calista''s heart remained miraculously calm. "If you want to kill me then go ahead. I want to see how long your brother can live without me!" Jarrett narrowed his eyes, his face threatening! "Oh? Then you can go to hell!"


    Calista heard him release the gun''s safety catch, and she tilted her body to one side, the needle in her hand ready to release anytime!


    BANG! Just before Jarrett fired, his gun was shot out of his hands by another gun! Calista kept away the needle in her hands and looked towards the door.


    "Mr. Jarrett, if you kill my wife, I will kill you in return - I just helped you and you want to repay me with evil?"


    Kallum kept his gun away and walked over. Seeing that Calista was fine, he reached out and held her in his arms without saying a word, his sharp features emphasized in the dim light, and his eyes gleaming in the night!


    Kallum''s sudden appearance


    knocked some sense back intoBelonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Jarrett, but when he saw the two of them standing together, the anger that he just suppressed suddenly started rising again - Calista was so


    bote because she had the support of this man!


    If Calista knew what he was thinking, she would have stuck a needle in him and told him that she was stronger than him even without Kallum!


    "You did help me..." Jarrettughed bitterly, his bloodshot eyes still staring daggers at Calista, "But I''m in this state all thanks to Calista! If not for her, I could havee out unscathed!"


    Kallum smiled arrogantly, "Didn''t she


    also tell you that your second uncle


    would turn on you? If that is true, then you still have to thank her for tonight Without these firearms, your second uncle would not dare to do anything."


    Calista red at Kallum as he continued to hold on to her. Why couldn''t he just talk to Jarrett himself? Why hold on to her?


    Jarrett saw Calista look ''lovingly'' at Kallum and became even more irritated.


    He snorted, "How could a woman like her possibly know anything like that? I think she made it up because she was afraid I''d kill her!" Kallum did not change his stance, and said confidently, "But I believe her."


    As long as he believed her, Jarrett had no reason to doubt her!


    Calista felt her body go stiff and her expression darkened.


    Kallum was going to protect her all the way, so there was nothing left for Jarrett to say anymore. He looked at Calista, unwilling to lose to her, and said, "But this woman really has a lot of tricks up her sleeve, isn''t Mr Kallum afraid to be cheated by her?"


    Kallum''s deep-set eyes calmly nced at Calista, before he lightly snorted in reply, "She''s my woman, what business is it of yours?"


    Jarrett pursed his lips together tightly. Tonight was not his night at all - every person he met made him angrier and angrier!


    He took a deep breath and shouted, "Let''s go!"


    If he stayed on any longer, even if he didn''t die from getting beaten, he would die from getting angry!


    Levi was also in shock - he didn''t expect his big boss to appear over such a small thing! And he was here for Calista! He began to worry that his boss was going to me him for what happened to Calista. Kallum saw that Jarrett had left, so he nodded at Wyatt. "Thank you Mr. Wyatt for telling me."


    Calista red angrily at Wyatt when she heard this! She was still wondering why Kallum suddenly appeared - so it was Wyatt who spilled the beans!


    Wyatt didn''t feel worthy of Kallum''s ''Mr. Wyatt'', and hastily responded politely.


    Earlier he was afraid that something bad would happen to Calista when he received her texts, so he decided to tell Kallum - and all that happened proved that he had made the right decision.

 Chapter 36 Mr Kallum Please Behave Yourself

    Kallum looked annoyed as he red at Levi. "Go change ces with Quintus - he''s much more alert than you."


    Even though he didn''t get scolded, Levi felt upset in his heart, but he knelt down on one knee and acknowledged the instruction.


    He had been by Kallum''s side for nearly seven years now! And now Kallum was casting him aside for a fianc¨¦e he didn''t even love! But of course he didn''t dare to say anything, and only obeyed allmands. Calista thought this was ridiculous. She broke free from Kallum and coldly said, "We''re not fianc¨¦ and fianc¨¦e anymore, Mr. Kallum, please behave yourself!"


    Calista''s merciless words froze Kallum''s expression.


    When he saw others looking at them, he clenched his teeth and dragged Calista outside. "You heartless woman! I''m helping you here! If you weren''t my fianc¨¦e, tomorrow Jarrett would destroy your entire family!" Calistaughed coldly, "Did I ask you for help? You''re just being nosy!"


    Without him, she would have made it out alive anyway, just maybe not as easily.


    But she still didn''t need his help!


    With that thought in mind, she shook Kallum''s hand off violently.


    Kallum was going to be driven mad by this woman!


    Sure! How stupid of him! It was his own fault that he ran over shamelessly the moment he heard that she was in danger, and in the end she didn''t even care!


    But when he saw Calista walk away quickly and nearly disappeared into the night, Kallum cursed himself and went after her!


    "What are you doing!" Calista suddenly shouted, because Kallum had suddenly put a hand around her waist and lifted her feet off the ground.


    "What am I doing? I''m sending you back! Otherwise where do you think you''re going all by yourself thiste at night?!"


    He felt that he seemed a little too shameless by sticking to her like this, so he added on, "My mum would be upset if anything happened to you, otherwise you think I''d bother about whether you''re dead or alive?" Calista thought, indeed, he came for the sake of his mother.


    She was d she did not get the wrong idea.


    If Kallum knew that Calista would believe anything he said, he would probably strangle her to death from anger.


    When she saw Kallum driving towards the Stafford residence, Calista couldn''t help but say, "Don''t go to the Stafford residence."


    Kallum raised an eyebrow. "If you don''t want to go the Stafford residence then where?"


    Calista was slightly injured and didn''t want to go back. Anyway Yelena would find out she snuck out in the middle of the night by watching the CCTV. It was better that she just stayed the night in the rented apartment rather than for Yelena to find her injured. After the apartment was all ready for her to move in.


    So Calista gave directions to her apartment and said with a straight face, "It''s sote, I don''t want my father to worry. But since I don''t want to stay in the school hostel for the next semester, I''ve rented an apartment just outside the school. Go there."


    Kallum furrowed his brows. Calista wanted to stay elsewhere by herself?


    He nced at Calista. Previously her thick fringe had covered her eyes and so it wasn''t so bad - but now she exuded a different aura altogether. Her features sharp and mesmerizing, her sparkling eyes alone were enough to stumble people - but she didn''t want to stay in the school hostel and the Staffords agreed to that?


    Was this the way the Staffords treated his fianc¨¦e?


    Kallum ignored what she said and started driving towards his own house. Since she didn''t want to the Stafford residence, then she could go to the Fairchild house!


    When she saw that Kallum wasn''t listening to her, Calista asked coldly, "Where are you bringing me to?"


    Kallum let out a humph and said, "Tonight you''reing to my ce, I don''t care what happens to you tomorrow!"


    Go to his house? Over her dead body!


    Calista didn''t want any further unnecessary interaction with Kallum. She coldly shouted, "You don''t have to care what happens to me from now on, stop the car!"


    Kallum ignored her and continued driving towards Havenrock Vi and had already locked the car doors.


    Calista started getting angry and breathed hard - how did she not notice in her previous life that Kallum was such a busybody!


    There were very few cars on the road at this hour, so Calista suddenly took a needle and pointed it at his neck. "You know what I''m capable of. If you don''t want me to stab you with this needle, stop the car!"


    Kallum became angrier when he heard her threaten him, and he immediately stepped on the brakes, grabbing her hand and pulling her into his arms.


    Calista didn''t expect Kallum to be so strong. She tried to fight back but Kallum was holding onto her very tightly. He whispered dangerously into her ear, "Looks like you''re not going to stop if I don''t teach you a lesson huh?"


    Calista couldn''t move her hands,


    and her body was pressed against


    his. She looked at Kallum''s face just inches away, and suddenly she felt fear. She suddenly realized that she was afraid of Kallum, afraid of something happening between them again!


    So she started struggling even harder!


    Kallum held her tightly, her body curves rubbing against his body through the thin fabric of her clothes, and her cold fragrance became a fire when he breathed it in!


    He saw that Calista was trying very hard to escape and suddenly became strangely angered by this, and without thinking, he bent down and kissed her lips.


    Calista opened her eyes wide!


    The manly smell of Kallum hit her nostrils, that smell clear and dry, like sunshine.


    And the heat from his body was going to melt her arms soon...


    The effort to move her body made Calista whimper subconsciously, and now that she was sitting in his embrace and held tightly, the movement of her body made the atmosphere even hotter. the more she moved, the warmer it became!


    Kallum was not in the most


    had known how sweet she tasted he wouldn''t kiss her! She wasn''t as aggressive as usual when she was being kissed, and her soft and supple body was still struggling subconsciously, and the struggling was like a silent sort of seduction, setting a purple ze alight in Kallum''s eyes.


    "Ouch..." Kallum suddenly released her lips, but saw that Calista was ring at him fiercely, not satisfied with just biting him.


    But there was an amorous air about those sparkling eyes, and it made him go numb. So Kallum wasn''t angry, and he evenughed. "This is the second time you''ve bitten me..."


    His unique voice was enticingly hoarse, and Calista''s face turned red.


    "If you try again, I''ll bite you!"


    Her fierce threat sounded like an invitation to Kallum.


    He suddenly smiled broadly and then pushed her down.


    Her soft body was stuck, and Calista tried to dodge him but couldn''t. In her anger, she could only try her best to bite him!


    But Kallum''s reactions were quick,


    and she didn''t get to bite him even


    once, instead her lips meeting


    Kallum''s again and again and even sucked on. The two of them had


    both their bodies and lips


    intertwined, and it looked more like


    they were kissing each other


    intensely!


    Each attempt to attack and defend ended up looking so amorous. Calista started bing short of breath, and her body was heating up against her will, and to make matters worse, she could feel Kallum getting aroused! D*mn it! Kallum was actually getting aroused!


    Her two legs kicked uselessly, rubbing against him in a rhythm, making Kallum kiss her even more crazily - if she didn''t stop him now, he might take her in the car right there and then!Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Suddenly someone knocked on the car window!


    Kallum was stunned by this interruption, and Calista took the chance to quickly push him aside and climbed back into her seat, panting heavily.


    Her embarrassed yet angry face was as moving as a rose with thorns, and Kallum was as if in a daze, wanting to continue. Then he suddenly realized that his body had reacted naturally - d*mn it! He was attracted to Calista...

 Chapter 37 Feeling Her Pain

    The knocking sound on the car window started again, and Kallum rolled down the car window in irritation. The person outside had not expected the car owner to be so young and good looking, and thought it was little wonder he had such luck... Even though the ss was tinted and nobody could see into the car, but since the car wasn''t moving and kept shaking. It was obvious what was happening.


    "What is it?"


    Kallum spat all three words murderously, causing the man outside to lose some ground, and he started stuttering, "You... You''re taking up the whole road!"


    If it were somece else it wouldn''t have been so bad, but Kallum''s car was parked right on the zebra crossing. Even though it waste at night, there were still traffic cameras that might catch his car - otherwise he wouldn''t have interrupted others having a good time! Kallum''s face immediately darkened.


    He even began to feel frustrated at himself - if he had just waited a few more seconds and stopped by the roadside, nobody would have interrupted him...


    Wait a minute! Interrupt? He was definitely not aroused by this woman!


    Kallum started driving at a high speed, feeling very upset with himself.


    This time Calista was very quiet, and didn''t say a word as she watched him drive towards Havenrock Vi.


    But she was also feeling very confused inside. She couldn''t forgive herself for suddenly giving in to her emotions earlier too. If her body had not suddenly felt limp, she should have been able to push Kallum off. If her fingers weren''t so weak that she couldn''t hold onto a needle, Kallum wouldn''t have had his way with her either.


    Kallum was also silent - this wasn''t the first time he had such a strong desire for Calista. Perhaps he really should go look for a woman.


    After alighting, Calista didn''t say anything and headed straight for the guest room. The butler looked at her strangely, but when he looked back at Kallum, he let out a small gasp.


    "Mr. Kallum, are you hurt?"


    Kallum looked down at himself and saw that his jacket had some blood stains. After getting shed by Jarrett, Calista had used a needle to stop the bleeding and had bandaged the wound very simply, but the kiss earlier was so intense, so the wound started bleeding again, but it was not visible through her ck clothing.


    It suddenly dawned on Kallum - Calista was hurt?


    Kallum told the butler to quickly call Shaun over, and then suddenly remembered that actually Calista could treat herself, so he grabbed the first aid kit and went to the guest room. When he reached the room door, he suddenly stopped himself. What was wrong with him? Why was he so anxious?


    When he thought about how he had gone all out to rescue her and she turned around to scold him for being a busybody, he felt very misunderstood.


    This woman was biased against him and didn''t appreciate what he did at all! She was hurt but pretended to be fine the whole journey, obviously not wanting to worry him. Oh please, he couldn''t be bothered about whether she was dead or alive! With this thought, Kallum turned to walk away, but his feet refused to move, as if he was tied to the ground!


    He cursed himself and knocked on the door anyway, but nobody answered.


    Kallum was afraid that something had happened to Calista, so he opened the door and walked in to find that there were several pieces of clothing on the floor. ck top, ck pants and a bloodied bra, all the way to the bathroom. Kallum froze. Calista was bathing?


    He couldn''t help but think of how Calista had wanted to prove her innocence a few nights back and stripped in front of him...


    Actually he didn''t mean to be so fierce that day, but when he saw the dubious looking scratch marks all over her, he couldn''t control himself and wanted to re up!


    He wanted to protect her, but his anger made him want to humiliate her!


    Just as he was still in a daze, the bathroom door opened. Calista froze when she saw Kallum.


    She was holdingrge towel and wiping her hair dry, her long ck hair wet and stered on her well defined body, emphasizing the scary long red slit on her chest. When those sparkling eyes looked at him in confusion, that wound didn''t count for anything - she was like a perfect Venus de Milo, every line on her body exuding beauty. Their eyes met and Kallum violently turned himself around, but Calista did not scream.


    She calmly wrapped the towel around herself and pushed her hair to the back, revealing the wound on her chestpletely.


    Kallum was still waiting for her to


    get angry or shout in surprise, but there was no sound or movement behind him, so he turned around only to find Calista sitting at the dresser, facing the mirror and checking her wound.


    The wound was quite deep and very painful, but Calista liked this sort of pain.


    She kept feeling like everything was very surreal, as if this new life was not real but just a dream. That this could be a result of her just going e mad from being locked up at the research facility, and her


    Ve


    subconscious had locked itself and


    created an alternate universe.


    That was why she was so bold and outrageous from the time she was reborn. She had thrown away all reservations, doing anything she wanted, and had be like a different person. Only pain made her feel real again.


    She smiled lightly and tilted her head to look at Kallum. "Since you''ve brought it here, aren''t you going to give it to me?"


    Kallum looked at her wound and in a serious voice, "The family doctor is on his way here."


    "I can do it myself, give it to me."


    Kallum frowned.


    He hated it when she became cold and rational. Even when she was being prickly and argumentative - that was better than this pool of still water.


    But since she was hurt, Kallum hid his unhappiness and passed her the first aid kit, and then sent a text to the butler to tell Shaun not toe. After all Calista was a more highly skilled doctor than Shaun.


    The first aid kit had everything she needed, including needles and thread for sewing cuts.


    The wound had stopped bleeding after she had performed acupuncture on herself, but it was still red and gaping, and looked terrifying.


    Kallum could tell immediately that was a knife wound, a knife that had shed her vertically.


    He suddenly felt anger rising in his heart, and he clenched his teeth and asked, "Was this inflicted by Jarrett?"


    Calista didn''t reply. Instead, she just


    wore a pair of gloves, andN?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    disinfected the wound very roughly causing some blood tond on the white skin of her chest, each drop as bright as red plum blossoms blooming in the snow.


    Kallum grabbed her wrist and said, "Can''t you be a bit gentler?!"


    His voice was very fierce, as if he was the one she was being rough with.


    He threatened, "If you don''t do this more carefully, I''ll get Dr. Yancey to sew you up!"


    Calista looked at him weirdly, as if she was trying to say it was none of his business whether she was gentle on herself or not, since he wasn''t the one feeling the pain anyway.


    But because Kallum was watching her like a hawk, Calista slowed down her actions and looked gentler, and Kallum was appeased.


    But when he saw her pick up the needle and prepare to sew, even though Kallum wasn''t a doctor, he knew this wasn''t the right procedure!


    "Are you going to apply any anesthesia?"


    Calista weakly replied, "There isn''t any."


    Anesthesia could be dangerous if not handled properly, and since the Fairchilds were humans like everyone else, it was illegal to keep anesthesia and simr substances in a first aid kit.


    "I''ll get some!" Kallum stood up, but added on one more thing just in case, "Don''t do anything, just wait here!"


    After she saw Kallum leave the room in a hurry, Calista smirked and continued sewing herself up.


    The girl in the mirror generally remained expressionless, but when it was really painful, she would frown, but her lips were upturned. Pain meant that she was alive. The more pain she felt, the more alive she was.

 Chapter 38 Do Not Torture Yourself This Way Anymore

    Yelena was right about one thing - she might really be mentally ill.


    Kallum came back to the scene of her sewing herself up, and the anesthesia in his hands was pointless now.


    He could tell that Calista was in pain, because every time the needle pierced her skin, she would purse her lips together tightly. Then when the blood stained thread came out from the other side, her body would shiver a little. She could feel everything, but she was able to tolerate pain without making a single sound.


    This new knowledge made Kallum feel strangely ufortable. Calista was never like this. She was strong willed yet fragile, stubborn yet weak, but now she hadpletely gotten rid of her weak side, and now she was just obstinate! All this happened after that one fateful night. What was the story behind her body full of cuts and bruises that made her change so drastically?


    If he had given her more attention, perhaps he would have noticed that there was something wrong with her earlier, and then she might not have be so extreme.


    When he thought about this, he felt his heart ache, and felt that it was too kind a punishment to sentence those two scoundrels to life imprisonment!


    "If it really hurts, inject some anesthesia!"


    He tried to pass her the syringe because he couldn''t bear to see her in pain.


    Calista''s forehead was covered in a thinyer of sweat from the pain, and her eyes were all teary. When she looked up at him, Kallum felt like he couldn''t breathe.


    "No need."


    Perhaps it was because she was in great pain and thus feeling happier, she wasn''t so irritated by Kallum anymore. She was especially curious about the guilt and frustration in his eyes.


    She continued sewing and Kallum couldn''t force her to use anesthesia. He could only stand by the side and watch her pierce the skin around the wound again and again, and for a moment, he felt that every needle was piercing his own skin.


    Finally she let out a whimper through her pursed lips, and Kallum couldn''t stand it anymore. He stuck his arm in front of her and said coldly, "Don''t endure the pain anymore. If you feel pain, just bite me!"N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    He just didn''t want her to continue torturing herself like that!


    Calista scoffed as she looked up at him, her teary sparkling eyes reflecting herughter. "If you''re afraid that I''m in pain, then kiss me!"


    Kallum was still trying to process this in his mind, but his body had already started moving towards her pale lips, but Calista used two of her gloved fingers to stop him at thest minute. Their faces were now very close to each other, and he saw the sparkles in her eyes twinkle, making him stop breathing!


    Sheughed, and it made her beautiful face look more malicious than before. "Are you being so obedient because you love me?"


    Kallum froze.


    Love? Calista? You''ve got to be kidding!


    Calista saw a sh of rejection in his eyes, and took that as his answer, and she pursed her lips into a smile.


    "If it''s not out of love, then why do you want to kiss me?"


    "..."


    Kallum''s eyebrows were tightly knit at this point.


    He hadn''t thought of what to say, but Calista helped him to speak up. "It''s because you can''t believe it."


    "A woman who loved you for more than ten years suddenly doesn''t love you anymore, and this is like a challenge to you. All this time only you can choose to dislike others, but nobody has the right to abandon you. So you want to get back this infatuation from me, isn''t it?" She spoke very logically, but it was from the worst possible point of view of him. Kallum knew that was not how he thought, because in fact his reason was very simple...


    He looked straight at the woman before him, and suddenly his thoughts darkened.


    All he wanted was for this woman to surrender everything to him, and he wanted to possess all of her! He wanted her to remove her spiky armor for him, and he wanted to make her mesmerizing eyes go pink from excitement!


    This sudden flurry of thoughts shocked Kallum.


    He had desire for Calista! An unstoppable desire! It was not because he couldn''t ept what she had be, and it was not out of guilt.


    But he wasn''t able to say any of this, instead hoarsely saying, "There''s one more stitch to go, I''ll do it!"


    Calista was stunned, but Kallum had already put on gloves and took the needle from her. Then with an extremely serious face, he pierced the needle through her skin.


    He saw Calista''s body tremble slightly when he pierced her skin, and it even upset her breathing pattern. So he took every bit of caution and steadily finished thest stitch.


    The plum blossom-like blood drops moved up and down along with her chest as she breathed, and Kallum could not hold in his desires anymore, and he kissed those eyes that were teary from the pain. This light touch left both of them trembling.


    The air started heating up, and after that kiss, he started staring at Calista''s lips, his Adam''s apple moving, his gaze dim.


    Calista narrowed her eyes slightly and did not slip into this amorous air. Instead she stared back at him curiously, as if she was trying to judge if he was going to kiss her or not.


    ...


    After some moments of silence, Kallum suddenly pulled himself back and ran out. D*mn it!


    Calista''s calmness was a humiliation to him. His pride did not allow for only him to fall into temptation but the other to remain unaffected.


    But after he had finally run back to his room, those mesmerizing eyes of her remained deeply etched in his head. He saw the fresh blood drops on his gloves and after freezing for a moment, he licked the gloves clean of the blood as if he were possessed!


    Had he gone crazy?!


    The next day, Yelena realized that Calista wasn''t home and wanted to make a scene, but someone from the Fairchilds sent Calista back before she could do so. Benedict felt that his daughter was still young, and even though she was engaged to Kallum, she shouldn''t be too close to him.


    But then when he thought about how strange Calista''s behavior had be, perhaps it was better for her to be with someone she likes.


    So he decided against scolding her, and only told her not to do this again.


    Calista naturally agreed. In the


    afternoon, Jonathan appeared as agreed. He looked forward to this arrangement of having a daily psychiatric treatment at 3pm,


    because Calista was simply too


    beautiful. It was a beauty that wasn''t only on the outside, but a dangerous sort of beauty, a great beauty who was abination of both sharpness and indifference -


    Jonathan was very sure that


    absolutely nobody could escape her charm.


    To make it easier for Jonathan to do his work, Yelena made


    arrangements to make sure there were no servants left in the house and even brought her own daughter out. She didn''t intend for Jonathan to do anything with Calista this week, but she thought it was good for them to get closer to one another, and better still, if Calista


    could fall for Jonathan!


    So the moment Jonathan entered the house, there were no servants in therge living room, and Calista was sitting on the sofa by herself, drinking.


    She swirled the red wine in the crystal ss with her fingers and looked like a cross between the great goddesses Aphrodite and Athena. When her eyesnded on Jonathan, he felt like she could see right through him.


    "Hello Ms. Stafford, pleasure to meet you. Before we start the treatment, please allow me to introduce myself again..."


    He quickly put away all the greed


    and covetousness in his eyes and started talking excitedly, but before he could finish talking, Calista held up her hand to stop him and even poured him a ss of wine. This attitude was definitely much better than the first time when she sshed tea in his face.


    Jonathan was quite sure she did have some mental issues, but this didn''t have any effect on her charm. He took the ss from her as if he were very ttered by her, and because he was in close proximity to her, he drank everything down in one gulp anxiously. Calista then smiled. "The treatment is not urgent, Dr. Larkin, why don''t you have a listen to this first?"


    She passed him her cell phone, and Jonathan hadpletely let down his guard. But the moment he clicked the sound file open, he could hear the familiar moaning of Yelena, causing him to drop the ss in his hand in shock, and the ss shattered on the floor.

 Chapter 39 Naughty But Adorable Woman

    He quickly turned to stare at Calista, his expression bing more and more nervous, sweat drops appearing on his forehead as the voices in the recording yed clearly. Calista smiled calmly. "Dr. Larkin, do you know what sort of influence the Staffords have? If this recording gets to my father, no matter how gentle a man he is, he will make sure your reputation goes down the drain."


    The words ''reputation go down the drain'' sent Jonathan into a panic and he dropped the phone to the floor. He quickly bent over to pick it up in fright, but Calista stepped on his hand, and the broken ss pieces stabbed into his hand.


    He screamed in pain but nobody came to his rescue. He tried to take his hand away but Calista was too strong, and he was too scared to try to fight back. "Ms. Stafford, I''ve underestimated you! Yes, yes it was Yelena who seduced me first! You know, people like me have to listen to what she says, right? Ms. Stafford, I...I beg you! Let me off this time! I won''t do this again!"


    More sweat drops appeared on his forehead, but it wasn''t out of fear but out of pain! His left hand was full of ss shards and it hurt him tremendously.


    Calista peered down at Jonathan who was bent over and hands on the floor andughed a little. "Dr. Larkin, you''re mistaken. I have no intention of exposing your dirty deeds."


    She had no such intention but she was still stepping so hard on his hand?!


    At that moment, Jonathan suddenly felt like crawling away, but he was still within sight of Calista and couldn''t move away at all.


    "Dr. Larkin, you know that I''m sick, so my brain is full of strange ideas, but I''ve never had a chance to fulfil any of them. But your conversation has given me some inspiration, and I''ve thought of a wonderful game to y. You wanna y?"


    Jonathan obviously had no choice but to y, right? He quickly nodded and Calista finally took her foot away. His hand was already a bloodied mess, and the extent of the injury was terrifying.


    Calista put a card on the table and said, "There''s a million dors on this card, why don''t you do something for me? After youplete this mission I''ll give you another two million."


    Jonathan was holding onto his hand, and all he wanted was to get away from this demon! He didn''t want money anymore. He wanted to leave!


    "Since you''re already here, you can''t escape really. I know your parents are in Machia and you have a wife and a younger sister living in Loang. I''m more formidable than you think - so if you agitate a sick person like me and incur some sort of bad reaction from me, that won''t be too good for you, don''t you think so?"


    Every word she said made Jonathan''s face paler by one shade. She knew everything! Everything!


    "You...what do you want me to do?"


    Jonathan looked up at Calista and felt he was looking at a demon!


    Calista smiled, "I just need you to be obedient and help me do one thing, and I''ll give you two million. Do two things and I''ll give you three million. If you stay on my side, you''ll be rewarded beyond your imagination."


    Calista''s generosity made Jonathan continue to hold his bleeding hand, his expression changing several times.


    Seeing that he was still hesitating, Calista smiled again, "Yelena didn''t tell you who my fianc¨¦ is huh?"


    Jonathan looked at Calista, his face already drenched in sweat. Did this womane from some amazing background?


    Calista justughed, "My fianc¨¦ is Kallum Fairchild, not sure if you''ve heard of him."


    Kallum Fairchild?!!


    Jonathan felt his body go limp and he simply copsed onto the sofa.


    Calista and Kallum''s engagement was only known in the elite circles, so if Yelena did not mention this, Jonathan would have never known. And now that he knew about it, he suddenly felt like his soul was being shredded into pieces. The Fairchilds were an aristocratic family, bing more and more prosperous with each generation!


    As a doctor he knew much about wealthy families, so he was very well informed about the Fairchilds. They were not just a corporation but a wealthy and powerful conglomerate!


    Calista watched his face change several colors before swirling her wine ss and asked directly, "Got it?"


    Jonathan clenched his teeth hard. "I''ll listen to you!"


    Calista went phew and then smiled as she downed the ss of wine. "I look forward to working with you."


    The next day, Calista woke up in her rented apartment.


    Yelena didn''t believe her excuse about going to stay at the Fairchilds'', but as long as she went home daily at the right time to do her ''psychiatric treatment'', Yelena didn''t object to her staying outside.


    Calista rubbed her eyes, and then


    started practicing once she was more awake. After going through so much pain, her body''s active energy was increasing and bing stronger. Calista saw that she had purged a lot of toxins from her body,


    So she went to bathe.


    When she came out, she realized there was someone sitting on the sofa. Thankfully this time Calista had learnt her lesson and walked out in her pajamas - otherwise she''d have been indecently exposed again. "Jarrett?"


    Calista was surprised he hade looking for her so quickly.


    "Are you here to beg me?" asked


    she. Jarrett had regained his usual nefarious demeanor, and there was no trace of that uncontroble fury he disyed two nights ago, all ready to kill her. Now he was dressed in a suit and wearing his


    ve


    sses and looked like a young


    sessful businessman.


    It wasn''t hard to find where Calista was staying. Jarrett saw that her reaction was very calm and felt like this wasn''t fun anymore. "As Ms. Stafford has said, I''m here to beg you."


    Calista scanned him and then sat down on the next armchair. She used a towel to dry her hair as she said, "Since I''ve already taken your deposit, then I will definitely save your brother. But then you shed me the other night, how do we settle this?" Jarrett''s eyes became dangerous behind the lenses of his sses, and he stared back at Calista, as if he was about to stare a hole in this woman who didn''t seem to know better!


    "If I don''t remember wrongly, Ms. Stafford almost got me arrested on that night, but now you wantpensation. Don''t you think you''re going too far?"


    Calista lightly snorted. "Smuggling is an offence, and possession of illegal firearms is a bigger crime. None of those guys at the jetty were good guys anyway, so what''s wrong with calling the police?"Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Jarrett pursed his lips together, the eyes behind his lenses looking more and more malicious.


    "And as for you, if you hadn''t confirmed that something''s up with your second uncle, why would youe here? I''ve given you such an important piece of information, why do you say asking forpensation is going too far?" Jarrett rxed, his lips curled up in a smile. "Ms. Stafford is right, this information deserves some remuneration."


    He stood up and walked right in front of Calista, and asked teasingly, "So what do you want? Me?"


    Calista continued drying her hair and replied calmly, "Why, you want to go up against Kallum?"


    "What you''ve fought for bes more valuable, no?"


    Calista nodded and nced up at him. "You''re not bad, you can be my backup then."


    Jarrettughed. This was the first time someone dared to say he could be a backup lover! This woman was really asking to die!


    In the next moment, Jarrett''s gun was up against Calista''s head, and she froze and stopped drying her hair. "Ok what do you want?" Jarrett slowly wiped the smile of his face and his expression became extremely cold, and there was a murderous glint in his eyes.


    "You''re a really incredible person and


    he


    you know a lot of things. Others would have been easily manipted by you, but you don''t understand what sort of person I am at all. You think would allow someone with cruel intentions and an unknown agenda to save my younger brother?"

 Chapter 40 You Are Mistaken

    The unlocking of the safety catch was heard very clearly in the small room.


    Heughed coldly, "I will put away all the ones who can''t be controlled or pose a threat to me. If you thought that I won''t bear to kill you because your little seduction game has made me interested in you, I''m afraid I have to disappoint you." Jarrett said this while hoping to see panic and despair on Calista''s face.


    He hade all the way here prepared to kill her! She was way too mysterious and impossible to control, and she knew too much about the Sinirs. So even if he ended up offending Kallum, Calista had to die!


    But everyone knew how much Kallum hated Calista. So saving her thest time was probably merely out of his sense of righteousness and responsibility.


    Calista merelyughed.


    This unexpected reaction made Jarrett frown, and when her beautiful sparkling eyes looked up at him, Jarrett suddenly felt his breathing stop...


    Then suddenly his hand was in great pain! A needle was stuck on the back of his hand, making his hand go numb instantly. The gunnded on the sofa, and Jarrett immediately made a grab for it with his other hand, but Calista grabbed his hand and pulled hard, flipping him over and then used her body weight to press him down on the sofa.


    Now the barrel of the gun was on Jarrett''s head.


    Jarrett had clearly underestimated his opponent - he did not expect that Calista''s needles were able to do something like this.


    Calista used the gun to whack his head very hard twice before she calmed down. "Mr. Sinir, this is what you did to me thest time, how does it feel?"


    Jarrett''s forehead had turned red from the impact, and his sses had fallen to one side, revealing his long and cold eyes, staring icily at Calista.


    "You''ve got several tricks up your sleeve."


    Calistaughed, "Who doesn''t have an ultimate move?"


    She continued to point the gun at him, and used her other hand to pinch Jarrett''s face, and said maliciously, "Also, you said I don''t understand you at all. That''s true, because I don''t need to."


    An evil smile spread across her face. "If you choose to be obedient, then listen to everything I say. If you choose to be disobedient, then I''m going to make your life hell until you be obedient! So why should I understand you?"


    She was pinching him very hard, as if Jarrett''s face was a piece of dough for kneading!


    Jarrett was thoroughly humiliated, "Bloody hell! Let go of my face!"


    Calista pretended that she didn''t hear anything and used even more force to pinch him! In her previous life she could only see this man from afar, so since she had the chance this time round, she wanted to torture him as much as possible. She clicked her tongue as she praised him, "Mr. Sinir, your skincare routine is not bad huh, your face is pretty soft."


    Jarrett struggled for a while but just couldn''t get out of Calista''s grip. His anger had reached boiling point, and his eyes were staring daggers at her now.


    "Calista, don''t you consider the consequences of your actions?"


    The Sinirs were a family that the Staffords needed to respect! How dare she!


    Calista smiled calmly, and the hand that was kneading his face just patted his face and she looked down at him, "The consequences is merely death, and death is merely..."


    There was a tinge of loneliness in that unfinished sentence, and it somehow managed to pause Jarrett''s anger.


    But Calista had gotten up.


    "Ok, end of fun and games."


    She ced the gun gently on the table and red at Jarrett in irritation before she coldly said, "If you dare to point a gun at me again, I''ll incapacitate your hand! Every time you point it at me, I''ll incapacitate a limb! And I mean what I say!" This bold threat stunned Jarrett who had managed to sit up.


    He should have gotten furious, stood up and taught her a lesson!


    But strangely enough, after seeing the malice in her eyes, that cruel description made him feel excited.


    What on earth was he excited about? Did he look forward to Calista shooting one of his limbs?


    He looked away from her awkwardly, trying to wipe those weird thoughts out of his mind.


    The gun was right in front of him, but he no longer wished to use it now. He had to admit that he couldn''t bear for this woman to die.


    Seeing that Jarrett had calmed


    down, Calista continued drying her hair, as if everything that happened was but t a dream. "Back to the


    ????


    original topic. I gave you top secret information and saved you an internal conflict within the family. I want five million for it, transfer it to my ount. Any objections?"


    Jarrett pursed his lips and didn''t say anything.


    After struggling in his mind for a while, his heart finally decided that since he couldn''t bear to see her die, then the only option was to cooperate.


    He clenched his teeth and said, "No objections, money is not a problem. I just want to ask you about my brother''s illness - are you really confident of treating him? The remuneration will definitely be satisfactory!" Calista was surprised that his attitude had changedpletely, but didn''t ask further.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    "I more or less understand your brother''s illness, so I will look for you in a while. Now is not the right time."


    "Then when is the right time?"


    "When my mood is better."


    Calista''s words stirred up the anger in Jarrett''s heart again, and he burst outughing, "Ms. Stafford really has a way of making people die from anger with your words, not sure if you''re as sharp in bed." "It doesn''t matter, you won''t get to experience it."


    "Why not give it a try?" Jarrett stood up. "Perhaps after you''ve tried you''d end up falling in love with me." Calistaughed, "Don''t worry, I''mpletely devoted to Kallum. The door is that way, I won''t see you out."


    Jarrett felt the sarcasm in her smile. Forget it then! He wasn''t going to snatch a woman who liked someone else.


    Heughed coldly and turned to leave, but the moment he opened the door he came face to face with an equally quizzical Kallum.


    At that moment, Jarrett finally experienced a sour and bitter feeling in his heart. Of all people to like, why did Calista like Kallum?


    "Congrattions, Mr. Kallum. Your fianc¨¦e is 100% loyal to you. Don''t forget to send me your wedding invitation."


    Kallum snapped back to reality and


    smiled, scanning Jarrett with a dangerous look on his face and said unhappily, "Since Mr. Sinir knows that Calista is mine, please stay furtheDaway from her. You''ve barged into her house today, and I hope I won''t catch you doing this again. I hope you understand what I''m trying to say."


    Jarrett''s face started turning nasty and he almost couldn''t keep the smile on his face. He clenched his teeth and said, "Rx, I''m here to talk about my brother. I have no interest in Calista!" "That would be best."


    The two men stared each other down for a few moments, and then Jarrett tookrge strides out. Now he knew, these two were purposely going up against him!


    When Calista heard that Kallum hade as well, she startedughing inside. What auspicious day was it? Why were there so many uninvited guests?


    After Kallum had made Jarrett leave angrily, his mood suddenly changed for the better. Beforeing he still had mixed feelings, but after he heard Calista say that she was devoted to him, he could finally


    breathe a sigh of relief.


    He knew it - Calista still liked him! After all, how could she just wipe away her feelings after liking him for so many years?


    So even though Kallum restrained himself on the surface, his heart was no longer confused and he did not hide his desire any longer.


    Indeed, he had thought about it for very long, but finally decided to face up to his feelings for Calista.


    Calista was his first woman, so his body was unable to resist her. To put it simply, he had a desire for her, and that was all!

 Chapter 41 Deal With One First

    "Why are you here?"


    Kallum saw her expression was only that of irritation, and there was no sign of looking happy to see someone she was in love with. He started to think that Calista was a fantastic actress - if he hadn''t heard her say it herself, he wouldn''t have known the extent of her


    feelings for him.


    He suppressed the happy bubble that was rising in his heart, and arrogantly said, "I heard you moved out to live by yourself, so I''m here to see what sort of ce you''re staying in."


    But seriously, he was very unhappy with this apartment. It was too small and too simple - how could Calista stay in such a ce?


    Calista was amused by his randomness. "If you have something to say, just say it. We''re not familiar enough to chit chat about our daily lives."


    Kallum frowned, the frown line like a crack on his handsome face.


    Calista''s acting was too realistic - he could see the disgust in her eyes, as if she really didn''t want to see him. Looks like he has to force her then.


    Kallumughed as he used his beautifully almond shaped eyes to look down at her. "You are my fianc¨¦e, what do you mean by not familiar? Or...are you trying to hint at something else?"


    Calista looked up coldly at Kallum - was it because she was no longer normal, so the world had also be abnormal? Why did she feel like Kallum was behaving strangely today?


    "Have you forgotten that I have backed out of the engagement?" Calista suddenly thought of another possible reason. "Or are you saying that you don''t want me to use the Fairchild name to do things, so you''re here to mock me?"


    Kallum saw that her train of thought had gone way off topic, so he decided to remove her ''disguise''.


    "Enough - I heard what you said just now. Since you still like me, why do you still pretend to reject me and keep me at an arm''s length?"


    He wanted to smile but covered it with a cough, and said arrogantly, "I didn''t even know you werepletely devoted to me."


    Calista had a strange look on her face.


    So Kallum had thought her answer to get Jarrett off her back was for real?Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "I have to rify one thing."


    Calista continued in a solemn voice, "I am no longer engaged to you, and I only want to be the Fairchilds'' goddaughter. I said that earlier because it was convenient to use your name. But if you don''t want your name to be used like that, I will not use it anymore." Kallum changed for a moment but he suddenly burst outughing. "Almost got fooled by you!"


    He teased her back, "So you were not happy about backing out of the engagement? It''s not really that serious you know, since there''s no official announcement about it, so you can still change your mind. Besides..."


    Wasn''t she trying to use her goddaughter status to get closer to him?


    His words made Calista frown even harder. She emphasized every word, "I really don''t like you anymore."


    Kallum pushed her against the wall.


    "You don''t like me? It has been eleven years from the first time you said you liked me until now! You mean eleven years of feelings for me can just disappear like that?"


    And of course, the repeated attempts to seduce him.


    "If you don''t like me, then why would you say something like that to someone else? Calista, is it so difficult to acknowledge your own feelings? Now that I have this desire for you, are you sure you want to give up this fantastic chance?" He sounded very confident of himself, and he let out augh. "Admit it! Then be my woman!"


    Thinking about it this way made marrying her not seem so difficult to ept anymore.


    Calista had her back against the wall, and she looked up at Kallum in front of her and waspletely speechless.


    What did he mean by he desired her? What did he mean by bing his woman? Had he gone mad? How was he spouting such nonsense?


    "Do you believe in oaths?" Calista asked quietly.


    Kallum''s beautiful eyes lit up at this. "If it''s an oath about me, I will believe it."


    Calista nodded, then put up her hand to start her oath. "Today I, Calista, solemnly swear that if I still have feelings for Kallum, then I will die horribly! After dying I will be flung into the deepest dungeon of hell..." Before she could finish, Kallum cupped a hand over her mouth and suddenly frowned. "What is the meaning of this?!"


    The yfulness on his face disappeared, and his eyes began to look threatening.


    "So after you''ve piqued my interest, you want to y hard to get now? Calista, I''m not Jarrett, I don''t have time to y games with you!"


    Calista''s head started to hurt - an oath to curse herself didn''t have any effect at all.


    Suddenly she undid her shoulder straps and let her night dress slide off her body, revealing her beautiful figure.


    Kallum got a shock and quickly turned his face away. "What are you doing?"


    Calista said resignedly, "Didn''t you say you have a desire for my body? That''s easily settled, just have it then. I want to be the Fairchilds'' goddaughter, we have a deal on that! You can''t back gut on your part of the deal like this!"


    Her stubborn attitude was so resolute, her words disregarding emotion and desire - it made Kallum''s heart suddenly freeze over.


    Calista would rather let him sleep with her than to admit that she liked him...unless she really...!


    A fire suddenly shed in Kallum''s eyes. He turned back to look at Calista, his eyes unconsciously scanning her body, making his Adam''s apple quiver.


    "If you really don''t like me, then why did you strip down to seduce me?"


    Calista replied calmly, "So that you don''t keep thinking about what you weren''t able to obtain, and then keep getting in my way."


    This mouth of hers could really drive people up the wall!


    Kallum started letting anger get the better of him, and decided to obey the desire of his body so that she would shut up!


    He pressed her against the wall, the two young bodies tightly meshed with one another, except one was naked and the other was fully clothed.


    The warmth of her body could be


    felt through his thin clothing, and Kallum realized that as long as he touched Calista, his body would start to heat up, and if he kissed her, he would be possessed by a desire like no other!


    The fury earlier had dissipated, and now he had his prey in his hands. Kallum wanted nothing but to tear her apart and eat her!


    Soft moans escaped from the two


    pairs of lips that couldn''t let go of each other, Calista''s eyes lost focus, and from up close, it was as if there was amist over her eyes, which were even more mesmerizing.


    Just when it was getting intense, Kallum suddenly pushed her away, leaning his hands on the wall and saw her body turning pink and her lips swollen, andughed gleefully.


    "You''re such a liar! You obviously have feelings for me!"


    Calista shot him a nce - that one nce was so enchanting that Kallum almost lost control despite being so proud of his level of restraint.


    "This is a natural biological reaction, nothing to do with you."


    Her voice was cloyingly mesmerizing.


    But when Kallum heard this, his face turned threatening.


    "You mean, even if it were another man, you''d have the same reaction?"


    Calista wanted to make him angry enough to leave, so she quickly nodded.


    Kallum was so angry that he couldn''t speak. All the pleasant feelings earlier were all gone, and now his voice turned cold.


    "I ask you onest time."


    His face turned nasty, and he clenched his teeth so hard they chattered. "You really don''t like me?"


    Calista nodded. "That is the truth."


    BANG! Kallum suddenly punched the wall behind her. Calista squinted at him from this sudden disy of violence.


    "So if I now decide to stay far, far away from you, you will not regret it either?"

 Chapter 42 The Scheming Mother And Daughter

    He had hoped to see some hesitation and unwillingness in Calista''s eyes when he said that.


    "I will not regret it. As long as you remember our deal," replied Calista coldly as she stared at him.


    Her words made Kallum turn pale and red at the same time - this was the biggest humiliation he had ever suffered all his life! So after he had done all these stupid things for her thinking she still carried a torch for him, she actually really didn''t like him anymore. "Calista! You''re really good at this! You want to be the Fairchilds'' goddaughter? Fine! I''ll fulfil this wish of yours!"


    Kallum flung the door open and walked out, his fury enough to burn the whole building down.


    Calista was confused by his reaction because she was very sure that her body was merely reacting as part of a normal biological process. Now that she had a second chance at life, she wasn''t going to waste any time on Kallum, not a single second. When she thought about all the other important things she had to do, Calista quickly got changed and headed back to the Stafford residence. There was a good showing up, and she hoped Jonathan wouldn''t let her down. When she reached the door, Calista could hear her father shouting in anger. With a little smile on her face, she walked in to find the usually snobbish Yelena kneeling on the floor and crying as she held onto Benedict''s leg. "Benedict! It''s not what you''re thinking, I...I...I must have been drugged! I don''t know who that man is, I don''t know anything!"


    Benedict kicked her aside, but Quincy came running at him and cried, "Daddy! Daddy, you must believe Mummy! Why would Mummy betray you? Someone must have drugged Mummy!"


    Benedictughed coldly. "Drugged? Who would have drugged her in this house? I didn''t catch that guy, but it doesn''t mean you can take me as a fool!"


    Benedict angrily turned and went upstairs. Yelena was still crying when she spotted Calista and her expression became threatening.


    "Was it you? It must have been you! Only you hate me so much you would drug me! You little despicable woman! I''ve underestimated you! You''re doing such despicable things at such a young age!"


    Calista smiled. Looks like Jonathan was pretty obedient. The first thing she had told him to do was to let her father find out that Yelena was having an affair, but she didn''t expect him to do such a perfect job of it - he was definitely great at plotting against others. "What are you smiling about!" Yelena asked furiously. The more she thought about it the more suspicious she became of Calista. She couldn''t have been so desperate for sex in her own house and dragged Jonathan into bed, so she must have fallen into some trapid by Calista!


    Calista shook her head andughed, "If you always walk outsidete at night, you''d eventually run into a ghost, Mrs. Stafford. You''re a real cougar, but it''s better to control yourself at home."


    "You idiot girl! Shut your mouth!"


    Yelena made a pounce for Calista like a madwoman upon hearing these words, but Quincy held onto her. She threw her mother a look to tell her not to do anything stupid now, and not to forget their n!


    Quincy stood in front of Yelena and asked angrily, "Callie! You''ve gone too far! Mummy has been falsely used and you still mock her!"


    Calista was about to respond when Benedict walked out and shouted, "Yelena, who allowed you to scream and shout like this? Get out of the house! I don''t want to see you ever again!"


    Yelena''s face paled and didn''t dare to continue quarreling with Calista. She quickly ran upstairs to seek forgiveness from Benedict - she couldn''t afford to be chased out now.


    After Yelena had gone upstairs, Quincy didn''t let Calista go. Instead she approached Calista angrily and quietly said, "Callie, this is your doing, right? You''re so good at mixing medicines, and it''s not as if you''ve never made an aphrodisiac before. You don''t have the guts to admit your crime?"


    Calista was smiling at first, but suddenly her expression changed and she caught one important word.


    "An aphrodisiac? How did you know I''ve made an aphrodisiac before?"


    She had never told anyone else that Mirabelle asked her to make such a drug before.


    Quincy''s face paled and she tried to avoid the question, but Calista stepped forward and red at Quincy dangerously. Calista couldn''t believe this.


    "So you were in cahoots with Mirabelle from such an early stage!"Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Then she and Mirabelle watched together as she was misunderstood by Kallum, and Quincy must have been ted to watch her getbeled as a shameless woman by Kallum, right?


    The more she understood what was happening, the more she hated Quincy!


    She felt that Quincy needed a psychiatrist too. Otherwise, how could a normal seventeen year old girl do such evil things?


    Quincy was cornered and she started to panic. She didn''t expect that Calista already knew the truth about how she had lost her virginity, and now that she thought about it, Calista must have be sharper with each day precisely because she already knew what they had done!


    When she thought about it this way, Quincy was suddenly no longer afraid. Calista wasn''t capable of doing much - so what if she found out about them? Kallum wouldn''t believe her anyway!


    The only unfortunate thing that


    happened after that drugging incident was that Kallum was very quick to stop this news from spreading, so they didn''t manage to destroy Calista''s reputation back then. That was why she had to make a second attempt that night during the party at Fairchild Manor.


    3619


    She looked up and said mockingly, "Calista, what are you shouting at me for? You were the one acting shamelessly - if you hadn''t insisted on staying with Mr. Kallum after he had been drugged and chased everyone else out of the room, you think he would touch you? You''ve obviously gotten what you wanted but you''re here pretending that you''ve been bullied - how thick skinned!"


    Calista was so angry that she chortled. Her eyes looked like a ck fog was taking over, and whoever looked into her eyes now would freeze over instantly.


    "What I don''t understand is, you like Kallum, and so does Mirabelle. How did you two manage to work together without being disgusted with each other?"


    Quincy decided not to pretend anymore, and she replied with a coldugh, "That''s because such a useless idiot like you was engaged to Mr. Kallum! Why don''t you look at yourself in the mirror and think about how unworthy you are!"


    Quincy had be aggressive, and her eyes were full of deep hatred and anger!


    Calista knew very well from her previous life how two faced Quincy was, but now she thought itughable that she was driven to death by such a person.


    She took a quick nce upstairs, and then purposely said something to spite Quincy, "I don''t care how angry you are about it, but Kallum is mine."


    Seeing that the anger had intensified in Quincy''s eyes, Calista curled her lips slightly and looked down at her.


    "Are you very angry and furious now? I just love the way you look when you try to kill me but can''t - it just shows how useless you are."


    "You! I''M GOING TO KILL YOU!"


    Quincy was finally agitated - recently nothing had gone her way, and her temper became worse and worse. And now that she watched this useless idiot suddenly gain the upper hand, she refused to let herself be bullied anymore and she couldn''t wait to tear Calista apart! Quincy''s screams made Benedict suddenly angry again!


    Initially when he saw Yelena tearfully tell him how she had fallen into a trap, his heart was swayed. But once he heard Quincy scream and shout, he finally lost all hope in this family! And he lost all patience with Yelena!


    "Enough! You said someone tried to harm you, who is it? Are you going to say it''s Callie?"


    Benedict pointed a finger outside as he said, "Callie has mental issues and you want to smear her? Can you see how spoilt Quincy is now? She''s behaving like a madwoman now! Marrying you was the worst thing that could have happened to this family! If you don''t leave now, I''m going to call someone to drag you out!"

 Chapter 43 An Evil Plan

    Yelena trembled - she had cried so hard but Benedict didn''t change his mind at all, so he must be very angry. Yelena felt that there was no chance at the moment, but she didn''t want to be chased out permanently, so she cried as she said, "Benedict, don''t be angry anymore, I''ll leave now, I''ll go stay at my parents'' ce.......I''lle over after a few days, and I''ll keeping until you forgive me."


    "Get out!" Benedict finally let out a firm shout.


    Meanwhile, Quincy was downstairs and about to hit Calista when her hand got caught by Calista.


    Calista was expressionless on the outside, but only she knew how much intense anger she was hiding under her calmness.


    It was fine, she thought. She had already nned to get rid of these people one by one anyway. They had made her lose everything in her previous life, so this time round she was going to make sure they suffered the retribution of their evil deeds.


    She was especially gleeful when she saw that Yelena had been chased out of the room, and she pushed Quincy away.


    "You see that? Your mother has lost her ce in this house and is being chased out of the Stafford family. The next one is you."


    Her calm voice made all of Quincy''s hair stand on end.


    When she saw that Yelena hade out with a face full of tears, it was clear that her father had not forgiven her mother.


    "Mum! Are you alright?"


    Yelena looked at her daughter through teary eyes, and then she focused again.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    She threw a dirty stare at Calista, then told Quincy, "Quincy, I''m going back to my parents'' ce for the time being. Your father and I still have some misunderstandings, so I''ll onlye again after a few days."


    But then she suddenly had a thought - if something happened to Calista over these few days, Benedict wouldn''t me her for it, right? After all she was supposed to be at her parents'' ce.


    Yelena''s eyes lit up as she formed an evil n instantly.


    Forget about beating about the bush - she was going to tell Jonathan to drug Calista the next day, sleep with her and get it down on camera first!


    Then when Benedict watches the video of his eldest daughter in bed with some man, he would definitely be so embarrassed and he would be furious. Then she could me everything on Calista and say that she was actually raped by Jonathan, but she didn''t know it was him because he was wearing a mask, but she recognized his birth mark after watching the video.


    And then she would go on to say that Calista must have been the mastermind because she was having a fling with Jonathan, plus Calista hated her! All she needed was Jonathan to also use Calista, and then Benedict would believe her. This n was perfect!


    Then when she got the chance, she would post the video on the inte - she was sure that Calista''s reputation would finally take a hit!


    Even if Calista denied everything, it would be useless because nobody would believe her anymore and nobody would listen to her defend herself, and of course, the engagement with Kallum would be annulled.


    After she had thought through all of this, Yelena suddenly smiled strangely, and then said to her worried daughter, "Quincy, Mummy won''t be around for the next few days, so take good care of yourself and don''t get tricked by somebody!" She was very sure it was Calista who did this to her - there was nobody else in the family who would have done this!


    Calista could tell they were up to no good again, but she didn''t interrupt and simply went back to her room. Their ns didn''t matter anyway - Jonathan would report them to her.


    After she saw Calista leave, Yelena quickly pulled Quincy outside, speaking as they walked, "Quincy, I see that idiot girl has be very schemingtely! You''d better be careful without me around."


    Quincy didn''t think much of it and said, "I already know why she''s be like this. She doesn''t just know that I''m the one who drugged her at that night''s party, she even knows we''re the ones behind her losing her virginity a few months back." "No wonder." After Yelena heard this, she didn''t worry much about this change in Calista anymore.


    Calista had no backers and nobody to help her, so even if she knew the truth, there was nothing she could do. This time she wasn''t careful enough and fell for Calista''s trap - Calista wouldn''t be so lucky next time! Yelenaughed coldly as she quickly told her daughter hertest n.


    Quincy''s eyes lit up when she heard the n, and added, "Ok! I''ll call a few friends toe over tomorrow too and let them witness Calista''s fall from grace. Then even if Daddy wants to cover this up, he can''t!" Yelena thought this was a good idea too, but then she thought about it again and suddenly said, "But I''m not sure if Jonathan will cooperate."


    Quincy red at her mother. "All he wants is money, so just give him more! As long as Jonathan insists that Calista is the one who seduced him, Daddy would probably beat him up and send him to the police station at most. As for the video, after Jonathan leaves the country, you can post it online! Then Daddy would think Jonathan is the one who did this, and it has nothing to do with us!"


    Yelena was full of smiles as she


    rubbed Quincy''s head. "We''re all set


    then! I''ll give Jonathan a call now. Your dad suddenly came home earlier and scared him half to death, I''d better quickly reassure him otherwise he won''t agree to doing this tomorrow!"


    A spark of twisted excitement lit up Quincy''s eyes, and she quickly nodded, "You be careful then, Mummy! Don''t screw up tomorrow!"


    Yelena was suddenly no longer upset, and quickly gave a call to Jonathan.


    What she didn''t know was that after she had hung up with Jonathan, he called Calista immediately.


    Calista was lying in bed and staring straight at where the hidden camera in the room was and listened to Jonathan tell her that Yelena wanted to put her ns into action the next day, and what else she intended to do after that. At the end of his report, Calista just replied with two words, "Got it."


    Then she hung up.


    She saw that Jarrett had transferred the five million, so she transferred two million to Jonathan and added on a message for him.


    "I need you to do a second thing for me tomorrow for three million, ok?"


    Jonathan replied very quickly. "OK!"


    Every time he thought about Calista, a dull ache would run through Jonathan''s bandaged left hand. She was too frightening, like a demon wearing a beautiful woman''s skin!


    But if Calista hadn''t settled all of this in advance, what awaited her was a great tragedy worse than now, and her reputation would be in tatters.


    Jonathan shook his head, and then smiled in satisfaction. Once he thought about the two million he just received and the three million he was about to receive, he felt really good. Yelena was also a heartless woman, but too stingy. Look at her stepdaughter! So much more aggressive!


    Her remuneration was always in the millions!


    Yelena''s one million payout suddenly looked miserablepared to the millions from Calista - any logical person knew whose side to be on.


    Calista went to the rented apartment for the night as usual, and then returned to the Stafford residence the next day.


    Benedict was still upset after finding out that Yelena had cheated on him and didn''t go to the office.


    Quincy just pretended that nothing happened and called a bunch of friends over to the house. Everyone she invited were all from rich and powerful families, so even though Benedict didn''t like them in the


    house, he didn''t say anything and let them be.


    Calista had just stepped into the house when Jonathan also arrived - all the guests in the house turned around to look at them strangely.


    Quincy smiled and ran over to them,


    and said apologetically, "Callie, my friend just came back from Machia, so we''re having a party to wee him back and we''re going to hang around for quite a while more. Why don''t you do your therapy in your room?"


    Jonathan quickly added on, "That''s right, Ms. Stafford. Psychiatric treatment requires a quiet ce, so let''s go to your room."

 Chapter 44 Make Sure She Goes Down

    Calista smiled calmly but looked coldly at Quincy, making her hair stand on end and her smile freeze on her face. "Sure, you guys have fun. Dr. Larkin, let''s go upstairs," said Calista. "OK."


    Quincy breathed a sigh of relief after Calista had gone upstairs. Her best friend, Giselle Ziegler, ambled over and said with disdain, "So that''s your psycho sister? She does have a strange look on her face!"


    The look in her eyes was incredible too - just one look and it made her speechless instantly.


    A few of the guys also huddled around Quincy andmented in an exaggerated way, "Quincy, what sort of friend are you! Your sister is so pretty and you never introduced her to us!"


    What they didn''t know was, Calista had always attended school with them, but now she had changed her look so drastically that they didn''t recognize her at all. "She''s so pretty, like a fairy! Quincy, does she have a boyfriend?" asked someone else immediately. Quincy''s expression darkened - these boys were normally moring for her attention but the moment Calista appeared, they changed camps. Her decision was right after all - just one outstanding Stafford daughter was enough for the world.


    Giselle snorted, "Didn''t you hear? That woman is a nutcase! It''s not a crime for a psycho tomit murder, you know?"


    Quincy didn''t say anything. She saw that some felt that it was a pity, but there were still others who were still eager to go after her sister, and she justughed coldly. It didn''t matter, after all after today, Calista''s life would be in tatters, so there was nothing for her to worry about.


    Time slowly ticked away...the atmosphere in the living room became more and more rowdy, but Quincy was very distracted.


    She had already agreed with Jonathan to send her a signal when the deed was done so that she could quickly bring everyone into the room. But it had been quite a long time, why hadn''t he sent any signal?


    Or was Jonathan having too much fun and forgot about his mission?


    Meanwhile, in Calista''s room, the air was fairly cold and stiff.


    Calista and Jonathan were seated across each other and reading. Calista looked calm, but Jonathan looked ufortable in his seat, and they were both waiting for their prey to knock on the door.


    "Look at how antsy you are. Is it because you think I''m being cruel?"


    Calista put her book down and looked at Jonathan as she suppressed a smile.


    Jonathan quickly waved his arms, "No, no! You''re just taking the necessary defense against them."


    It wasn''t that he dared not do what she had asked of him, but he was afraid Yelena would teach him a lesson after that.


    Calista leaned back and closed her sparkling eyes slightly. Her red lips curled up slightly and looked as elegant as ady appreciating a theatre performance. If she didn''t say anything, all the men would definitely be falling over themselves to get her attention.


    "Tell you what," she smiled as she spoke, "Actually I''m a kind person. Send a text message to Quincy now and say that you''ve lost the medicine. Aphrodisiacs are hard to get, so I''m sure she doesn''t have any more on hand and will have to give up the n. But then if she gives up the n, our deal today is off as well."


    Jonathan was happy when he heard what she said at first, but then when she mentioned the deal would be off, he was unwilling to listen to her. The reward for today was three million, and plus the 2 million he had received, it would be a grand total of five million! Even if he spent his entire lifetime being an honest psychiatrist, he''d never earn five million.


    So he quickly replied, "No, I really wasn''t trying to imply anything -pared to what this mother and daughter are trying to do to you, your counterattack is too gentle, so I''m just afraid that you''d...regret it."


    Calista nodded, "You''re right, I suddenly don''t want to do this anymore. Send the text to Quincy."


    Jonathan was shocked as he didn''t expect Calista to suddenly back out at thest minute. He wanted to say something to make her change her mind but Calista''s expression grew extremely cold. "Why, you don''t want to listen to me?" Her expression made Jonathan feel the pain in his left hand again.


    He decided to just listen to what she said and swallowed everything he felt and sent the text out.


    Quincy''s eyes lit up when she saw there was a text from Jonathan, but when she read the content of the text, her eyes nearly popped out of her head in anger. This idiot! How could he lose something so important?


    Thankfully she had extra on hand, just in case this sort of thing happened.


    After a while, just when Jonathan was supposed to have finished his session, there was a knock on the door.


    Jonathan opened the door to find Quincy standing at the door, and she said sheepishly, "Callie, my friends are very curious about you, could youe down and say hello?"


    Calista shook her head. "No."


    Quincy seemed to have expected her to say this, so she got Giselle in to try dragging Calista out of the room.


    "Come on, let''s go, they''re your ssmates too!"


    There were also others at the side persuading her, so Calista


    reluctantly went out of the room. But in the midst of this, Calista suddenly threw Jonathan a knowing nce, and his body immediately went cold. He felt like Calista seemed to have everything under her control!


    She understood his greed and also understood Quincy''s heartlessness, so she could manipte them both at the right time.


    Jonathan quickly got rid of this idea in his mind. He didn''t know what Quincy was going to doter, so how could Calista possibly know?


    The moment Calista appeared, all the boys surrounded her!


    She was simply too beautiful, and the cold but gentle smile of hers excited all the males in the house. Even when she sat down without moving, she looked like an intricately carved sculpture, without imperfections.


    Quincy was annoyed to see how


    popr Calista was, and she was even more annoyed when she saw that Calista was very cautious and refused to touch any of the food and on the table. So she had no


    dce but to bring two sses of


    Wine to Calista.


    Calista was about to reject her when Quincy quickly said coyly, "Callie, don''t reject me in front of so many people!"This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She believed that Calista would not reject her in front of so many people in order to look like they were a happy family.


    Calista did not respond but kept staring at the wine, as if she suspected it was drugged.


    Quincy was getting a bit embarrassed and said, "We''re at home, what are you afraid of? If you''re still unsure, you pick one ss and I''ll drink the other one!"


    All the guys were cheering her on, and after Quincy''s words, Calista reluctantly picked one ss.


    The moment Quincy saw her pick


    one ss, she quickly gulped down the other ss and raised her empty ss at Calista. So Calista had no choice but to gulp down her ss as well Quincy breathed a sigh of relief and walked away while smiling.


    When she saw that Calista was surrounded by people again, Quincy quickly found a quiet corner to send a text.


    In order to make sure Calista didn''t suspect anything, she drugged both sses. She was too embarrassed to tell Yelena that she was drugged as well, so she just asked Yelena toe and help her out. Yelena asked, "Why are you suddenly feeling unwell? Isn''t it really obvious if I go back now?"


    Quincy could feel the drug beginning to take effect, so she quickly typed out: It''s ok, Jonathan is your guy, so you can push any me on him!


    Yelena then agreed.


    Calista did drink everything down - if she didn''t do so in front of everyone, Quincy wouldn''t have let her off.


    Her fair face was slowly beginning to redden, and all the guys just kept talking non-stop to her. They didn''t want to y games or dance anymore, but just hung around her.


    Yelena was very concerned about what was going to happen so she wasn''t far from the house. But she suddenly thought of something on her way back and gave Wyatt a call.

 Chapter 45 The Good Show Is About To Start

    "Wyatt, can youe to my house?"


    Wyatt frowned. He was quite repulsed by this aunt of his already, so he said, "Aunt Yelena, I''m at work now. If you have anything..."


    "Callie''s in trouble!"


    Wyatt sat up immediately.


    "What?"


    Yelena was annoyed when she realized how Wyatt reacted immediately at the mention of Calista, but she continued pretending and said, "She''s in trouble, soe quickly!"


    After saying that, she hung up the phone and felt extremely unhappy. Wyatt was now more concerned about Calista than her daughter, so she was determined to let him see Calista at her worst, and see if he still liked her after that!


    It was only after Wyatt had quickly applied for urgent leave and ran out of his office, that he started to think about his own actions.


    Doing something rash once or twice for a woman didn''t really mean much, but seeing that he was constantly doing illogical things for her, Wyatt was unable to lie to himself anymore.


    He...seemed to have really fallen for this strange, aggressive and thorny girl. But she was already engaged to someone else - she was in love with someone else!


    He pushed this bitter thought away and quickly made his way to the Stafford residence. Yelena also quickly made her way back to the house at the risk of being chased out permanently by Benedict.


    At this time, Quincy could feel the aphrodisiac taking over her, so she quickly ran over to Calista and saw that Calista was also beginning to suffer some effects of the drug, so she quickly said, "Callie, I''ll help you upstairs? Dr. Larkin is still waiting for you upstairs." Everyone present thought that Calista was going up to finish up her therapy session and it was not nice of them to interrupt, so they reluctantly let Quincy bring her upstairs.


    When Jonathan saw Calista, he knew Quincy had made her move. His heart immediately felt cold - he never expected Quincy to have more of these drugs on hand! She was this determined to bring Calista down!


    Calista was a very strong person, and Quincy was afraid that Jonathan could not handle her if she fought back. So when she saw that Calista looked quite dazed, she stuffed one more pill into her mouth and made sure that she swallowed it and was now fully unconscious on the bed.


    Then she panted as she whispered to Jonathan, "I''ll leave the rest to you...make sure you do it facing the camera, don''t block this sl*t''s face. I...want to make sure her reputation ispletely destroyed!"


    There were only three of them in the room, and initially Jonathan was at a loss. But now when he realized both Calista and Quincy were under the influence of the aphrodisiac, an evil thought took root in his heart and it took over him.


    Quincy was whispering instructions to him while unconsciously pulling at her own clothes, unknowingly seducing the man in front of her.


    She wondered why she''d never realized how good-looking Jonathan was. She was so used to hanging around those childish boys in theirte teens, but now this man in his thirties seemed so stable and elegant, and she was fatally attracted to him.


    Her beautiful voice continued, "Enough, I''m not going to say anymore, I''m also suffering the effects of the drug and I have to quickly settle it. Later my mum wille over to help you, so you just have to do...what you need to do!" Suddenly her legs grew weak and she fell towards Jonathan.


    Jonathan quickly caught her, and her warm and soft young womanly body was now very close to him. His eyes lit up - since Quincy had thrown herself at him, then he wasn''t going to let this chance go! "Quincy, it''ll take a while before your mumes over, so why don''t I help you first?"


    Jonathan''s hidden intentions made Quincy''s body go numb, but then she looked over at Calista and there was onest bit of reason left in her, "Not here, what if this slut suddenly wakes up?"


    But her body was really craving for some right now, and she was all ready to eat Jonathan whole!


    Jonathan saw that Calista waspletely unconscious, and a crazy thought crossed his mind.


    Whatever he was seeing now was exactly the same as the original n. He was supposed to sleep with Calista, then take his money and flee the country.


    But then Calista had no guts - this mother and daughter were out to get her, but she backed out at thest minute.


    Since the situation had be like this, then he was going to grab this opportunity!This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista had already given him two million earlier, and after this whole thing Yelena was going to give him another one million, and that would be enough.


    On top of that, he would have slept with both sisters, and also taken revenge on Calista for injuring his left hand so badly - it seemed like a win-win situation for him.


    ????


    After he had thought it through, he smiled as he started pulling Quincy towards the bathroom and said, "Don''t worry, she''s unconscious now. If you''re worried we can just do it in the bathroom, just do it gently and she won''t find out! I''ll help you first, then help you get her!


    His tone of voice became more agitated and hurried as he said so.


    Quincy wanted to find someone else, but the pheromones from Jonathan made her unable and unwilling to resist, and she ended up letting herself get half dragged into the bathroom.


    Soon enough there were amorous soundsing out from the bathroom, along with some moans from Quincy, polluting the ears of everyone who could hear.


    Calista sat up. Her face was still very red and her eyes were slightly blood shot, but her expression was clear and didn''t look like she had been unconscious at all.


    No matter how many times she was reborn, she thought, evil people would still be evil, and they would still make the same choices.


    The only hrious part was that


    Quincy didn''t understand Yelena at all. She said Velena was on her way but she still decided to go ahead with Jonathan because she thought Yelena would being all the way at the Langley residence and it would take some time to appear. But Calista knew Yelena better- today was such an important day, she wouldn''t be too far from the Stafford residence...


    Quincy''s phone lit up and Calista reached for it, and saw that Yelena had sent a text message: Done? I''m almost here.


    Calista smiled deviously and replied: Done.


    Oh dear, now she suddenly couldn''t wait for the good show ahead!


    Everyone in the living immediately turned to look when Wyatt and Yelena stepped into the house. Wyatt frowned - didn''t Aunt Yelena say something bad had happened? Why did it look like a normal gathering of friends?


    Yelena on the other hand, was so excited to see how many people there were! The more the merrier! She quickly pretended to calmly ask, "Has anyone seen my elder daughter?"


    One of the guys replied, "You mean Calista? She came out for a while earlier, now she''s back in her room".


    Yelena immediately got agitated and pretended to ask anxiously, "What? Then her psychiatrist? Has he gone?" Everyone exchanged nces, and finally said they didn''t remember seeing anybodye out.


    Wyatt frowned, "Aunt Yelena, what are you trying to do?"


    She was trying to smear Calista''s reputation, that''s what! She quickly pretended to sound worried and said, "I had no choice - I quickly ran back because I found out that something could be going on between Callie and that psychiatrist... "What? So they''re now in the same room together?" Wyatt became anxious upon hearing this and tried to head upstairs, but Yelena held him down firmly.


    She quickly said, "Wyatt, don''t be too anxious - I don''t know if what I heard was true, so don''t do anything rash!"


    You know about this right? Callie is now mentally unstable and sometimes Dr. Larkin will use hypnosis as part of this treatment. What if you upset the treatment process by just barging in?"


    Wyatt stared back at Yelena, his eyes staring holes into her. "Then what do you say we do?"


    Yelena started trembling after he asked so pointedly and was staring daggers at her.


    Everyone else began crowding around and one of the girlsmented sarcastically, "Couldn''t tell at all - Calista was so cold, so it''s because she prefers old men!"


    One of the guys immediately defended her, "Get your brain out of the gutter, we don''t have any proof - maybe they''re just having therapy in the room?" "Therapy with the doors closed for an entire afternoon?"


    An evil glint gleamed in Yelena''s


    eyes, and finally responded at the right time, "Ok enough, enough, don''t say anymore. I know all of you are very concerned about Callie. Tell you what actually after Callie became ill, I was afraid that something bad might happen to her so I installed a CCTV in her room and we can watch it remotely from the TV. Let''s see what''s happening in the room first, otherwise if I''ve misunderstood Callie, she''ll hate me even more."

 Chapter 46 Exchanging The Real Thing For A Fake

    She put on a sad face and beat her chest, "It''s so hard being a stepmother. If I''m too strict, then Callie would think I have bad intentions. But if I don''t care about her, I''m afraid she''ll be led astray. But she''s still my daughter after all, I don''t want her to be enchanted by


    some lecherous man. You must understand, Callie is already engaged to be married!"


    She purposely emphasized on the words ''engaged to be married'', so as to bring out Calista''s promiscuity.


    Wyatt wanted to reject the idea of watching the CCTV, but everyone in the living room thought it was a fantastic idea!


    "Oh goody! I''m really interested in how psychiatrists treat patients!"


    Another girlughed and couldn''t hide her expression while she said, "Sure, let''s watch it first, in case we''ve misunderstood her!", but she obviously hoped that the camera footage would be scandalous.


    When Yelena had obtained support from the guests, she got ready to y the camera footage on the TV in the living room. But Benedict thought he had heard Yelena''s voice and walked out to check what was happening. When he saw it was indeed her, he couldn''t help but yell, "What are you doing back here!"


    There were many people around, so Benedict couldn''t really shout too loudly at her. But Yelena was much more thick-skinned, and so her eyes lit up when she saw Benedict and she quickly dragged him to the living room and said in a loud voice, "I came back for a good reason I found out that Callie might have fallen for Dr. Larkin."


    Benedict nearly fainted. Callie and Dr. Larkin? How could that be? They almost fought when they first met!


    Yelena saw that Benedict did not quite believe her, so she quickly turned on the TV and used the remote control to switch to the CCTV channel while speaking, trying to get the footage up on screen before Benedict could refute her.


    Therge TV screen in the living room moved to the CCTV channel and a ck folder icon appeared. Once she clicked it open, she would be able to see what was happening in Calista''s room right now.


    When Wyatt realized Benedict didn''t understand what was going on, he quickly shouted, "Aunt Yelena! Do you really want to look at the CCTV footage in front of so many people? This is invasion of Calista''s privacy!" Benedict suddenly realized that the screen on the TV did indeed look like a CCTV interface, and he quickly tried to stop Yelena with a shock.


    Yelena was irritated that Wyatt had tried to interrupt - this wasn''t his family! Why did he have to stick a foot in?!


    Yelena tried to dodge her husband while quickly saying, "Hubby! This is all for Callie''s good! Don''t you want to see how that Dr. Larkin is treating Callie behind closed doors? Callie is still so young, I''m afraid she''ll be led astray!" What she said did make some sense, but still they couldn''t just y the footage in front of so many people!


    So Benedict''s expression became even fiercer than before. "Give it to me! Yelena! What are you trying to do!"


    Benedict almost got his hands on the remote control when Yelena quickly started ying the footage on screen before he could.


    What was she trying to do? She was trying to kill off Calista! She wanted her reputation to go down the drain and lose everything she had!


    The huge screen immediately lit up and everyone couldn''t help but look at it. Yelena was more eager than anyone else to watch how Calista would embarrass herself!


    But when the footage yed, there was absolutely nobody in the room! Yelena''s expression froze. How could it be? Didn''t Quincy say everything was settled already? Everyone was initially prepared for a good show, but now there was nothing to see, and they were upset there was no exciting live streaming to watch.


    "What''s going on? I thought you all said you didn''t see anyonee out?" Yelena asked everyone in the living room.


    Wyatt breathed a sigh of relief. He was about to go snatch the remote control from Yelena, but luckily nothing bad had turned up on the screen.


    Benedict snapped out of it and shouted angrily, "Yelena! Are you nuts? Who allowed you to install a camera in Callie''s room? She''s my daughter, not a criminal!"


    Yelena didn''t know what to do, then suddenly she had an idea. "If she''s not in the room, she must be in the bathroom. Let me switch to the camera in the bathroom."


    Wyatt''s expression grew stern. "So


    Aunt Yelena, you''re implying that Callie and that doctor are in the bathroom? And you actually have a camera in the bathroom? Aunt Yelena, do you know what you''ve done? Installing CCTVs without consent of the other person is against thew!"


    The hand that Yelena used to hold the remote control started to


    tremble a little- she was very scared when this nephew of hers


    started speaking sternly, but sheet


    was already on the road of no return and so she puffed up her chest and spoke confidently, "I''m her mother! Calista is ill, and I''m afraid that she might do something stupid if she''s all alone in the room. You mean that''s illegal too?"


    "It''s illegal! Give me the remote control!" Wyatt said as he stretched his hand out at Yelena.


    Benedict didn''t want to quarrel with Yelena in front of so many people, so he hardened his face and said, "Give me the remote control! Then call someone to remove the cameras immediately! Do you know what an awful thing you''ve done? Are you somehow confused?!" The dozens of young men and women had mixed expressions on their faces - what was going on with this family?


    Suddenly Quincy''s best friend Giselle spoke up, "Wait a minute, there''s some sounding out from the TV..."


    If she hadn''t mentioned it, nobody would have noticed. Everyone quietened down and started listening attentively to the little sound they could hear, and they realized it was the sounds of a couple making love! Benedict''s face immediately changed. Yelena immediately found an excuse to continue her little show! She quickly pretended to be very upset and said, "I can''t believe it''s true! They''re really in the bathroom... Callie is only eighteen and she''s having a fling with some doctor in his thirties!" Everyone exchanged nces, and one girl said loudly, "I was wondering why she refused toe out and join us, so it''s because there''s a ''boyfriend'' in the room!"


    "So shameless, doing something like that in her own house!" someone added on quietly.


    "In his thirties? Calista has a really strong appetite huh!"


    "That''s impossible!" Benedict was furious now. "How do you know that''s Callie! Stop spouting nonsense and give me the remote control!"


    He didn''t care about the situation anymore and quickly ran to snatch the remote control from Yelena.


    Everyone made way for him and looked up strangely at the second story. The footage was from Calista''s room - if it wasn''t Calista, then who could it be?


    Wyatt was unable to do anything about this uproar in front of him. He didn''t believe Calista would do something like that - it was definitely someone else in the bathroom.


    No wonder Calista wanted to move out there were CCTVs in the room and even her bathroom. How could anyone live in such a house?


    When she saw Benedict making his way over to take the remote control away, Yelena knew that he would immediately turn it off and would not allow his family to be embarrassed publicly, but she was determined to ruin Calista''s reputation once and for all! So she pretended to pass the remote control to Benedict, and then ''identally'' pressed the button to switch to the bathroom CCTV channel in the process, and the sounds they heard earlier were even louder than before!


    Benedict was shocked by the scene on the screen, while Yelena let out a little scream and let the remote control drop to the floor.


    A few girls in the living room let out a gasp and hurriedly hid behind the guys.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    "So shameless, so shameless! Somebody quickly switch it off!"


    Wyatt should have quickly made a grab for the remote control, but he was too stunned by the image on the screen. It was as if he was hit by lightning! This couldn''t be true! How could it be?


    On the screen, under the bright light


    of the bathroom was a manpletely covering a woman, and the camera was filming from behind the man so they could only see the man''s back view and the slim legs of a woman. The man had his pants off and was moving vigorously, and it didn''t take a genius to know what was happening.


    They weren''t able to see their faces since they were standing with their backs to the camera and he was prating her from the back, but it wasn''t hard to tell from the sounds they were making how engrossed they were!

 Chapter 47 Counterattack

    "I can''t believe Calista is such a shameless person!"


    One of the girls said this while using her hand to cover her eyes, and some of them boys who were trying to get Calista''s attention desperately earlier looked like they''d just swallowed a fly.


    "She pretended to be some high and lofty celestial being, but she''s actually this sort of person! Disgusting!"


    Benedict nearly got a stroke from this footage. There were so many people here, and Calista had the guts to do this!


    He picked up the remote control from the floor and pressed the button a few times to find that the remote control wasn''t working anymore. He was about to run in front to smash the TV when Yelena grabbed onto him tightly.


    This was such rare footage and she wanted everybody to continue watching on!


    "Benedict, Benedict! I have to say this!" She whispered very quickly into his ear, "The man who drugged and raped me yesterday was this Dr. Larkin. That day he was wearing a mask, but I remember that mole on his thigh. Since he''s having a fling with Callie, could it be that yesterday it was Callie who..."


    She hadn''t finished speaking but Benedict knew what she was driving at. "You mean to say that Calista instigated him to harm you?!"


    Yelena started crying and said in a pitiful voice, "I don''t know what I''ve done to make Callie hate me so much!"


    "This ungrateful daughter!!"


    Benedict was really furious now. He ignored the fact that there were many people in the house and shouted towards the second story, "CALISTA! COME DOWN NOW!"


    The couple on screen was still continuing and didn''t look like they were stopping anytime soon. This scandalous footage was definitely the greatest humiliation of the Stafford family! After being watched by so many people, Calista probably couldn''t walk with her head up anymore.


    "I can''t stand it anymore, I never thought Calista would be so disgusting! I''m never stepping foot into this house ever again!" one girl was embarrassed and outraged and wanted to leave.


    Another said, "The disgusting one is Calista! She''s not just mentally ill, she''s also a sl*t! Luckily Quincy isn''t like her!"


    "Phew, luckily Quincy is ok. No wonder Quincy never mentioned her older sister. If I had such a shameless older sister, I''d be embarrassed to death!"


    Yelena took the chance to cry and wail at the same time, "What bad karma! I''m so d I found out early, otherwise if Callie gets pregnant, it''ll be so hard to exin! It''s so hard being a stepmother! Callie''s temper is so bad, she hates it when I chide her or try to discipline her, but I didn''t expect her to turn out this way, it''s all my fault..."


    Seeing that she was acting like this on purpose, Giselle quickly helped to add on, "Mrs. Stafford, this is not your fault! It''s Calista who''s in shameless. If I dared to do this, my dad would have broken my legs and then thrown me out of the house!"


    A lot of the others quickly supported this view. Their impression of Calista was only left with one word - shameless!


    The words of the guests made her continue sobbing, but her heart felt soothed. This time she got her good, and Calista would never be able to walk with her head high anymore!


    Benedict felt like his face was on fire. The veins on his neck were bursting and he had never suffered such humiliation in his entire life!


    He started walking towards the stairs and shouted angrily at the same time, "Calista Stafford!"


    The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. Calista wasn''t just having a fling with the doctor, but she used him to attack her stepmother! What a wicked thought! "COME OUT HERE!"


    A figure wearing white appeared at the top of the stairs. "Dad? You called for me?"


    Calista''s face was very red, and she looked a little tired, as if she had just woken up. But when she appeared, Yelena''s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets! She suddenly forgot how to cry! There was an uproar in the living room - if the person in the room wasn''t Calista, then the person in the footage was...


    On screen, Jonathan suddenly stopped and said, "That sounds like Benedict''s voice, he''s looking for Calista?"


    It was too bad for them that the bathroom''s soundproofing was too well done, so they heard themotion only now. But of course, earlier they were way too engrossed in what they were doing.


    A youngdy in messy clothes freed herself from his embrace and she said anxiously, "What? Daddy is here?"


    "Quincy!"


    There was an uproar among the guests - the girl on screen was not Calista. It was Quincy!This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    All those who despised Calista earlier were red from embarrassment, and Yelena squawked and wanted to smash the TV!


    But in her haste, she tripped over someone.


    So the conversation on screen continued.


    Jonathan hade once, and Quincy was much more sober now. But he was still greedy for more and didn''t want to let Quincy go.


    "Don''t be scared, maybe I heard wrongly. It''s all quiet outside now, right? Quincy...you were great, let''s continue? I want some more."


    Quincy was still fairly aroused, and Jonathan''s clear invitation made her legs go numb and she copsed back into Jonathan''s arms. Calista was still unconscious from the drugs anyway, so what was she afraid of?


    When she saw that they were about to continue, Yelena couldn''t stand it anymore and screamed like a madwoman, "Quincy Stafford!"


    This shout was extremely loud, and


    Quincy heard it herself and figured


    something was wrong. She managed to fight her desire and pushed Jonathan aside and ran out of the bathroom, only to find that Calista was no longer on the bed, and she felt her heart drop immediately.


    What was going on? Where was that sl*t Calista? Had she gone to tell on her?


    When she finally walked out and saw therge crowd downstairs, she pretended to be calm. But when she saw the image of the bathroom projected on the TV screen, she immediately knew what just happened.


    The look in everyone''s eyes included some who were teasing her, some who despised her, some who thought she was downright disgusting - every stare pierced through her body.


    "Oh so the one getting it on with the doctor in her own house wasn''t Calista, but Quincy..." said one of the girls calmly. She always hated how Quincy always had all the luck with the boys, so this was a great chance tough at her.


    "The most popr guy in school thought Quincy was so pure and didn''t dare to confess to her. We should really have asked him toe over and see what sort of woman Quincy really is." "Usually she pretends to be so demure..."


    Everyone was murmuring such things in low voices, and it was obvious that the girls were no real friends of Quincy, and meanwhile the boys were looking at her as if she was an item in a show window, as if she was easy to get. Quincy waspletely shocked by this turn of events. Her cousin was also downstairs and was now looking at her with mixed feelings - had they seen everything? How was she supposed to face anybody now?!


    Her face turned white like a sheet


    from sheer fear. She didn''t understand how this had happened, and she saw Calista standing at the side, quietly amused as though she was watching something funny happening. So without thinking she started wailing at Calista, "It''s not what you guys think! Callie! Why did you set a trap for me like that?!"


    Benedict was momentarily stunned into silence as well. Why was Quincy in Callie''s room? And how did she end up getting involved with Jonathan?


    Yelena snapped out of her stupor and quickly helped to wail alongside, "Callie, you''ve already plotted against me, why did you also have to harm your younger sister like that?"


    So they''ve decided to push the me on her, Calista thought.


    Calista nced at them calmly, and the way she seemed to look down on them made everyone feel guilty. "I caused her harm?"


    Calista snorted, "You mean I was the one who brought Jonathan into this house? I was the one who installed cameras in my own room? And I was the one who wanted you to quicklye back and y this footage for everyone?"

 Chapter 48 Forget It If You Do Not Believe Me

    Calista rubbed her eyebrows as if she was having a headache and said, "Let me think...so at first when you thought that the person in the footage was me, why didn''t I see you wail like this? Or could it be that because it was me, you were ok with it. But when you realized


    it was someone else, you became angry and preferred to insist it was my trap?"


    Calista''s words were sharper than knives. Yelena was so angry that her lips trembled, but not a single word coulde out.


    But even though she couldn''t speak, Benedict could. Regardless of which daughter was in the footage, he was thoroughly embarrassed by what happened!


    He shouted, "What you crying about! You still dare to wail and cry here? Quincy, go back to your room now!"


    Quincy cried even louder, "Daddy! You have to believe me! I only drank a ss of wine and this happened, I don''t even know how this happened!"


    Everyone had mixed expressions on their faces - earlier in the footage, Quincy''s face was very red, but her words were clear and logical, and certainly didn''t sound like someone who had lost control of herself, who would believe this excuse?


    After that she went to beg Calista, "Callie! Callie, say something! I don''t even know Jonathan, why would I...Callie, you''re the one who sees him every day!"


    Even at such a time, Quincy still hadn''t forgotten to take every chance to smear her. Calista merely smiled calmly and didn''t refute any of her words, while Benedict shouted at Quincy to go to her room again.


    Benedict truly doted on Quincy and even though he was really furious, he couldn''t find it in himself to say anything nasty. Meanwhile, Jonathan saw that the situation wasn''t looking good, and made his escape from the window!


    A gardener came running over and reported, "Sir, someone slid down the pir from Ms. Calista''s room, I tried to give chase but he hit me!"


    Benedict suddenly remembered there was another guilty party and clenched his teeth as he shouted, "Go after him now!"


    Then his eyes lit up when he noticed Wyatt.


    "Wyatt! Help to call the police! There must be more than meets the eye!"


    Wyatt was full of mixed feelings as he helped to call the police, and Jonathan instantly became a wanted man. But to Calista, who was watching coldly by the side this whole time, she felt that her father was still...as biased as before. Quincy realized both her parents were on her side, so she didn''t want to embarrass herself any further and cried while running back to her own room.


    Yelena wanted to immediately ask her what happened, but there were so many people present, so she had to grit her teeth and bite her tongue and try to clean up this mess for her daughter.


    "I''m really, really sorry about what happened today! Someone must have plotted against Quincy, our Quincy has always been obedient and mature, and would never do something like this! All of you are Quincy''s friends, please don''t tell anybody what happened today, otherwise Quincy will be ruined for life!"


    She cried and pleaded and tried her best to erase all guilt from Quincy, but no matter how well she phrased it, these people would not necessarily want to keep mum about the matter, especially those few girls who didn''t like Quincy, even though they all agreed on the outside.


    But it would be hard for Quincy to find a man from a good family to marry within Horington now.


    The more Yelena thought about it, the angrier she became, and her head hurt!


    All this must be Calista''s fault! If it wasn''t for her, Quincy wouldn''t have been so embarrassed! Why didn''t Calista just die!


    And that Jonathan ought to die as well! He went for Quincy even though she had instructed him to go for Calista! He couldn''t do anything right!


    Because of Wyatt''s rank, the police came very quickly, and Benedict busied himself with cooperating with the police officers, allowing them to check all the food and drinks in the living room. Yelena continued pleading with the guests as she sent them out, and only Calista and Wyatt had nothing to do.


    When he saw Calista turn to leave, Wyatt grabbed her wrist without thinking, "Where are you going?!"


    At the door, Calista looked back at her wrist in Wyatt''s hand, and narrowed her eyes. "Why? You think I know where Jonathan is and you want to arrest me now?"


    Wyatt had to admit that he did think for a moment that Calista knew Jonathan''s whereabouts, but once he was exposed by Calista like that, he suddenly felt difort in his heart, and he asked painfully, "Calista, about Quincy...was it you?!"


    Quincy had an unnatural redness on her face, and so she was definitely drugged. His aunt was suspicious, but she wouldn''t have harmed her own biological daughter like this! So the only exnation was that his aunt wanted to harm Calista, but she realized it early and turned the tables on them, pushing Quincy into the pit of fire instead.


    He couldn''t believe that Calista would be so cruel. There were many ways to seek revenge, but Quincy was only seventeen! How could she harm her like this?


    The pain in his eyes grew as he looked at Calista.


    Calistaughed strangely. "Don''t you already have an answer in your heart? Let go of me!"


    Normally Calista would have the energy to pull her hand away, but she was beginning to feel the effects of the drug and her body was losing energy. She hadn''t expelled the sexual desire that was inside of her, and it was all converted into pure anger now. "So it was really you..."


    Calista''s words had sucked all the energy from Wyatt for a moment, but then he red back at her and gripped her wrist tighter!


    "How could you do that? Quincy is only seventeen, how do you expect her to face anybody in the future? What do you get out of harming an innocent young girl?"


    Calista suddenly smiled, clenching her teeth with every word, "I want to ruin Quincy!"


    Her eyes looked like two torches of fire!Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    "She''s innocent? Yes, in your heart she will forever be the most innocent one! So what are you doing now? Why don''t you go andfort that wonderful younger sister of yours? Why are you harassing me instead?!"


    Wyatt was even angrier now. Calista had harmed someone and she didn''t feel guilty at all!


    He couldn''t tell if it was heartache or something else - he was upset thinking that the woman he liked was willing to harm an innocent party for the sake of revenge.


    "There are so many ways to take revenge! Why did you have to cause harm to others? Go back in and apologize!"


    Calista was so angry she burst outughing. "Could you get more ridiculous than this? Or is it because they''re your rtives so you''re blinded to the truth? Then you''d better not be a policeman anymore, otherwise someone might die for nothing!"


    She finally managed to free her wrist


    from his grip, and she rubbed her wrist as she continued mockingly, "Was I the one who called for the gathering? I was the one who found that doctor? I was the one who added those drugs? I was the one I who yed that footage? Have you ever thought about what would have happened if I were the one who was the victim of all this?!"


    The more she said, the angrier she became, and her sparkling eyes became deathly cold.


    "I don''t have a good brother like you to help me, I don''t have a father to investigate this matter for me, I don''t have a mother to help me cover up either if the person in the footage was me, it won''t even take a day for the entire Horington to know what happened to me! What would have


    be of me!"


    Wyatt didn''t know how to respond to all this, but he still insisted, "If someone else tried to plot against you, that''s definitely her fault. But as long as youe out unhurt, that''s good enough, right? Why did you have to push Quincy into the fire?" Calista looked hard at him and suddenly calmed down. "This is why I said, we will never be friends, and will definitely never be rtives! Stop getting in my way, we''re not close at all!"


    Calista then turned and left. Herst few words were like needles that pierced right into Wyatt''s chest.


    But Wyatt didn''t think he was wrong!


    He didn''t believe that the young Quincy would know how to plot against Calista, and he believed Quincy was innocent, so Calista should not have done such a thing!


    But when he saw that Calista''s face was also unnaturally red, he suddenly thought of something and the thought shocked him. He tried to run after her, but Calista had already disappeared from sight.


    Calista was indeed feeling great


    difort. Quincy had really given her all just tond her in trouble. Earlier, Calista had bathed herself in cold water for a long time and was able tokeep herposure, but now the effects of the drugs were taking over, and even her. acupuncture skills were useless.


    Calista was afraid that Yelena would find some way to put the me back on her if she remained alone in the house, so she ran out. She thought of returning to her rented apartment, but she simply couldn''t get a cab. So at thest moment, she thought of where she could get help...


    Kallum was having a meeting. After thatst unhappy encounter with Calista, he didn''t bother about her anymore.


    And because he was in a foul mood, there were dark clouds over the office since thatst encounter, and everyone was extremely tense and afraid that their boss might find fault with them. Suddenly a cell phone rang and everyone looked around, thinking who was the one who wasn''t afraid to die - how dare he or she forget to switch off the phone during a meeting with the boss! Then they realized the ringing phone was their boss'' phone!

 Chapter 49 Use GPS To Locate This Person

    The phone that was ringing was his personal phone. Kallum wanted to reject the call since it was an unknown number, but when he thought about how very few people knew this number, he feltpelled to answer it, and so he rapped the table with his fountain pen.


    ""Rest for ten minutes."


    Then he got up and walked over to the break area and picked up the call.


    He hadn''t said anything, but he could hear the other side panting heavily. This sound was very familiar, and Kallum frowned. "Calista?"


    There was no sound from the other side - Calista was holding on to the phone, but she was losing control of herself. Quincy had fed her drugs twice, and she swallowed them both times so that Quincy would not suspect anything. She was able to control herself earlier because her body was different from normal people, but now she could no longer hold up against the effects of the drugs.


    "Calista?"


    Kallum wasn''t sure, but he had a gut feeling it was her! Her quick breathing meant that something bad must have happened!


    Calista had copsed by the roadside and could roughly make out the voiceing out of the phone. She suddenly realized with a shock whom she had made a call to!


    Calista hung up abruptly.


    She didn''t need Wyatt''s help, and definitely didn''t need Kallum''s help.


    Kallum cursed and his secretary asked him if he was ready to continue with the meeting. Instead, Kallum grabbed his jacket and gave instructions, "Continue with the meeting and take minutes down carefully, I''ll look at themter."


    "Yes, boss!" The secretary was confused by his actions - the meeting today was very important!


    Kallum stepped out of the office and texted the phone number to someone: Use GPS to find this person, NOW!


    The other side received the message and quickly took action. Meanwhile a few cars waited to depart, and by the time Kallum got into one of them, the other side had an address for him.


    The four cars quickly headed to the address given to Kallum, and he finally started thinking about what he was doing.


    He had already decided not to care if Calista was dead or alive, so why the heck was he in the car?


    Calista could feel herself losing it soon, and she used all her strength to head for the forest next to the road. She knew that one way of getting rid of the effects of this aphrodisiac was to simply endure it until it had lost its effect, so she just had to endure it for a while more! But her foot stepped into air, and she fell forward.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    ""Watch out!"


    Kallum managed to catch her before she rolled down the slope. His bodyguards were stunned - Kallum ran even faster than them despite their professional training!


    Calista was now in Kallum''s embrace, and his pheromones surrounded her. She had lost control of most of her mind now and wasn''t sure if she was living in the past or the present anymore, and just felt that this smell was very familiar.


    She saw a facee close to her, a face that was deeply etched somewhere in the inner depths of her soul.


    She suddenly stretched out her hand to touch him as if in a daze, and both of them were stunned when her hand reached his face.


    The bodyguards quickly moved further away and just guarded the area, telling themselves not to look and not to listen. Kallum was initially about to carry her to see the doctor, but he froze when she reacted like that to him. "Calista?"


    He frowned, and her soft and weak hand was like a hot feather making its way from his chin to his eyes. "Kallum?"


    Her voice was gentle yet hoarse, her sparkling eyes were teary and limpid, and could capture souls!


    Kallum had a rough idea what had happened to her, but when he saw her tiny mouth slightly open, Kallum''s Adam''s apple moved slightly and he grunted in response. The next thing he knew, Calista had pushed him onto the ground! She urately found where his lips were and used all her strength to suck on them. Suddenly she became very strong, making her actions more intense, and her kiss was even stronger.


    Their lips and teeth were intertwined,


    and it was as though she was going to possess every inch of Kallum. But behind the domineering intensity was the pain of having a desire for something she could never have.


    Kallum was shocked by her sudden disy of passion, but he decided against thinking too much about it, and decided to fight back first!


    He held onto Calista and flipped over and kissed her back as crazily while pressing her down with his body. She was soft and fragrant, and her mouth tender and sweet, and it drove him crazy.


    Calista was even more aggressive as she clung on to his neck with her eyes half closed, desperately kissing him as if it was going to be the end of the world soon!


    Her passion immediately lit Kallum on fire, and the fire spread through his entire body, congregating in his lower half. Desire slowly burned away his ability to reason - he even forgot where he was, ready to bed her right there and then! Suddenly Calista whimpered - the kiss was too intense, and the skin at the corner of her lips tore.


    Kallum saw the blood on her lips and gently licked it off - Calista was fragrant, and her blood was sweet!


    But Calista refused to let Kallum have his way, so she took this chance to flip him over again, insisting on being on top!


    The two of them were like snakes intertwined with one another, and this violent inability to separate themselves from each other could be heard even by the bodyguards who had already moved further out earlier. Was it really ok to be so passionate upon seeing each other? Sometimes there were random people who walked in these small forests too!


    Calista''s movements made Kallum


    afraid that she might roll down the slope, so he held onto her with both hands, while shey on top of him, two hands on his chest, looking at him as innocently as a young deer, the blood on her lips making her trembling expression a little devilish. Then suddenly she suddenly started slowly crawling and rubbing against his body until her eyes met his.


    Kallum knew that this was not the ce to continue, but his eyes were fixed onto her lips and her intense passion earlier made him shudder. He wanted her, and he wanted more! But they were out in public - if they wanted to continue, they could go to his ce.


    So he forced himself to snap back to reality, and when she reached a hand out to touch his face again, he caught her hand and hoarsely said, "Stop here today ok? Let''s go see a doctor?" Calista blinked her eyes as if she was trying to confirm who this person in front of her was. "Kallum?"


    "Yes, it''s me."


    Kallum sat up, and Calista ended up sitting up on hisp.


    Calista was 5''5, but she still looked tiny as she sat in Kallum''s embrace.


    He suppressed his desire, and Kallum got ready to carry her home.


    "Let''s go home, ok?"


    After they reached home, they could do whatever they liked. When he thought of this, the purple in his eyes grew bright, like two torches of fire.


    But Calista pouted, lifted her head and asked, "Kallum...why don''t you like me?"


    Kallum froze.


    Calista''s eyes were instantly filled with tears. "You don''t like me, and you even hate me...do you like Mirabelle?"


    In that moment, Kallum felt as if her words had gripped his heart tightly! So tight that his heart was unable to move!


    Calista did not cry but held back her


    tears, and then said in a strong willed manner, "Give up on her! I''m not going to back out of the engagement....how will I know the wall won''t break if I don''t even try banging into it? I''m going to just Keep liking you, and one day, you''ll like me too...!"

 Chapter 50 So You Still Like Me

    When she said those things, she was still in a daze and it was obvious that she was still unable to think clearly. These were all the things that Calista wanted to tell him the most in her previous life before things had gone downhill for her. But because she was never able to say these things, they became part of her subconscious and now it had be her obsession for both lifetimes.


    Kallum should have been angered by her response - thest time they met she insisted that she didn''t like him, but now she was sitting in his embrace and said that she liked him and even asked him why he didn''t like her. But the immense happiness that arose in his heart was unmistakable. Before he knew it, his lips had curled into a smile, and there was a sweetness in his mouth as if he just ate honey.


    ""You little liar."


    His tone of voice was gentle, and Calista was looking at him as he said these words softly, her eyes dazed yet crystal clear. His Adam''s apple started quivering again and he bent down to kiss her already swollen lips. The more he kissed her the sweeter it became, and he was slowly losing control of himself and couldn''t wait to eat her whole!


    The amorous sounds of kissing and breathing started to turn these two young people on again, especially as they were sitting in such an intimate position. If they continued like this, they would definitely go too far! Suddenly Calista snapped out of her stupor and felt that someone was kissing her!


    She was stunned for a few moments before realizing it was Kallum.


    Her head was still in pain and she hadn''t fully snapped out of her daze, but she could remember what she did and what she had said - when she remembered the part where she asked Kallum why he didn''t like her, she was suddenly shocked back into reality. Then she noticed that her top had been unbuttoned sufficiently to expose her fair shoulder, and Kallum was kissing it!


    The passionate breathing and the heat of their bodies were proof of how crazy they were!


    Calista closed her eyes and suppressed the desire caused by the aphrodisiac. She...she wished she had woken up after the deed was done!


    Kallum was suddenly pushed away, and he stared at her through bloodshot eyes.


    But when he saw Calista in a panic, his lips curled slightly, and he gently spoke in her ear, "You''ve woken up?"


    His voice was so sexy in her ears. Calista felt her body go numb from just his voice, and she quickly bit down on her tongue.


    She quickly buttoned her shirt up again and didn''t dare to answer him.


    She was still being held in Kallum''s arms, her legs were around his waist and she could feel that she was sitting on a part of him that had been all hard and ready to fire, and it made her face red.


    Her body was still weak and aching because she had merely passed the worst part of the drug''s effect.


    Kallum felt some regret as he realized she was slowlying out of her daze, because he was now at the peak of his arousal and was ready to find a release right now.


    Kallum had felt a satisfaction like never before when she said that she liked him, and this satisfaction along with a long suppressed desire was making him lose control again.


    When Calista saw a purple fire ze in Kallum''s eyes, she had no choice but to grab her head and try to distract him.


    "...ow! My head hurts!"


    The first drug that Quincy gave her was an aphrodisiac, but the second one was a sedative, so after the aphrodisiac had lost its effect, the sedative started to take effect, and it made her feel weak and her head felt heavy. Kallumughed in a low voice. Then he bent down and kissed Calista again.


    Calista was in shock and she couldn''t even turn her head away.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing that she was so ''cooperative'', Kallum was very pleased. But it was as if her body had an addictive drug - Kallum originally intended to just kiss her, but after he started he couldn''t stop and his kiss became deeper and deeper. He started to feel the urgent desire from within his body, and it was exacerbated by the tiny whimpers she made unconsciously.


    Calista waspletely defenseless against his passion. She tried to struggle a few times but he only gripped her harder, so she could only feel herself melting under the heat of this giant ball of fire. "Kallum...!"


    Calista''s voice managed to snap him out his madness, and she pretended to be in tremendous pain and said, "My head really hurts! It''s about to explode!"


    Kallum saw that she was really in pain. His dazed eyes finally focused and he carried her in his arms and got up.


    "Your head hurts? Hang in there, I''ll bring you to the doctor now!"


    Because of the way he carried her, Calista helped to block a certain suspicious part of Kallum, and his bodyguards also finally breathed a long sigh of relief.


    They were really afraid that Kallum would disregard where they were and just... AHEM! There were more than ten of them and they could block people from going near them, but there was no way to block the sound - how terrible it would be if someone heard them!


    On the road back, Calista weaklyy in Kallum''s embrace. This was the first time she felt vexed since she started this new life.


    What on earth was she doing? Why did she call Kallum? And why did she say all those things that she shouldn''t have?


    Given Kallum''s pride, she''d never be able to get herself out of this sticky situation!


    All those words were the obsession of her previous life, because she didn''t know the truth and always felt that there was no reason for Kallum to dislike her so much. She liked him and wanted to know the truth but never dared to ask, so she ended up Keeping all this to herself for the rest of her life.


    The annulment of their engagement in her previous life was another thorn in her heart! At that time she didn''t want to annul the engagement at all but was unable to defend herself, and this also became a thought she never let go of.


    She never thought that in her daze, when she saw his younger self again, she just blurted everything out.


    But she was no longer the eighteen year old in her previous life. She now knew why Kallum didn''t like her, and knew the reason behind the preferential treatment, and these were no longer important!


    Hesitating all her previous life had spent all the love she had for him long ago. She asked probably because she had suppressed these thoughts for an entire lifetime, and she would regret not saying them.


    But she was very clear about what she wanted now, and she was even clearer that she didn''t want to have anything to do with Kallum in this life, so she had to exin herself!


    But how to exin...was a seriously difficult problem! It didn''t help that in this current life, Kallum was attracted to her, as if he''d been drugged or something.


    She curled up in Kallum''s arms to think about it, and Kallum smiled as he saw her pretend to sleep.


    He felt that once they got back he could return the thumb ring to her. She tasted pretty good - and that was enough for her to be his wife.


    He was in an excellent mood, and even thought that all the things she did previously to make him angry seemed cute now-how did he not realize that Calista was only pretending to mean what she said? All was peaceful on this front, but dark clouds hung over the Stafford residence.


    The police had left, but after such a scandal, how was Quincy going to return to school after the summer holiday? Benedict had no choice but to start considering transferring her to another school.


    Yelena was still bawling and


    insisting that there was something


    suspicious about everything that had happened, because it was impossible for Quincy to have ended up in Calista''s room, and then be involved with Jonathan. She continued to insist this must have been Calista''s scheme and then Calista purposely made a run for it when the house was a mess, and might even have gone to destroy any evidence.


    Benedict couldn''t stand it anymore and suddenly threw a cup at her.


    "You still have the gall to cry! Who asked you toe back? If you didn''te back, would this have happened? You suspect Callie, but I think you''re even more suspicious!"

 Chapter 51 Fallen Into A Trap

    Yelena was about to respond but Benedict stood up from his anger.


    "Get out! The Stafford family does not wee you here!"


    Benedict was so angry that he had lost all sympathy for her, and a thought suddenly crossed his mind. "Divorce - I want to get a divorce!"


    The word ''divorce'' terrified Yelena. She couldn''t possibly get a divorce now!


    Yelena quickly changed her stance from an aggressive one to a much weaker one, and she knelt on the floor and pleaded, "Benedict, Benedict it''s my fault! But we''ve been together for more than ten years, and even if I haven''t contributed much, you can''t just say you want a divorce!"


    Suddenly she thought of something.


    "Benedict, Benedict, I''ve got it! This must be Jonathan''s scheme! He had evil intentions when he came here in the first ce, so he drugged me first, then Quincy... Benedict you can''t abandon me because of this, I''m a victim too! If you don''t believe me, let''s wait till Jonathan has been arrested and I''ll confront him!"


    Her determined attitude made Benedict believe her somewhat. However, he was still angry so he wanted her to leave, but didn''t mention divorce anymore.


    Yelena breathed a sigh of relief, and she had no choice but to leave for now.


    Before leaving, she looked up at the second story uneasily and said carefully, "Benedict, don''t me Quincy, she is just an innocent young girl. She must be very upset by what happened, so you need to take time tofort her..."


    This worried Benedict as well, and when she saw him frown, Yelena took the chance to ask, "Can I see Quincy for a while? I''ll leave immediately after that."


    Benedict saw that she looked both worried and cautious at the same time, and thought she was truly concerned about her daughter, and his heart softened. After all, his daughter would probably appreciate her motherforting her at this terrible time. "Go and see her then. Then leave after that!"


    ""Yes, yes I will!"


    Yelena scrambled upstairs, and once she was out of his view, a murderous look took over her.


    Benedict, how dare you want to divorce me! I''ll get you another time!


    Quincy was also very upset - when she thought about how so many of her ssmates had watched that footage of her...she really wanted to die!


    The police had gone to check the CCTV, to find that the camera itself had no data because everything was stored directly on a thumb drive connected to the CCTV, and that thumb drive had gone missing.


    It must have been Calista''s doing, she thought.


    Calista must haveid this trap for her and then ran away with the thumb drive. What did she intend to do with it? Upload it on the inte and ruin her life?!


    When Yelena stepped into the room, she could hear Quincy sobbing and her heart immediately broke.


    She had wanted to me Quincy for making a mess out of the whole thing, but now her heart ached for her daughter.


    But while she could empathize with Quincy, Quincy didn''t empathize with her.


    The moment Yelena stepped in, Quincy flung a pillow at her.


    "It''s all your fault! If you didn''t get chased out of the house by Daddy, I wouldn''t have fallen into Calista''s trap! You can''t even take care of a thumb drive! Why don''t you just go and die!" Yelena wasn''t angry when Quincy scolded her like this, and instead her heart went out to her and she said, "Yes yes, Quincy, it''s all my fault, so don''t be angry anymore..."


    She walked over and tried to pat Quincy on the back, but Quincy pped her hand away.


    "How now? I want Calista dead!"


    Quincy had a murderous look on her face, and her hands gripped the bed sheet tightly, as if she was strangling Calista''s neck.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Yelena was also angry now. "I want her dead too! If I''d known she would be like this, I would have strangled her to death when she was young!"


    "What''s the use of saying all this now?!" Quincy red at Yelena. "Go look for Wyatt, and when he''s arrested Jonathan, force him to give a false statement!" Yelena blinked a few times. "You want Jonathan to use Calista?"


    She shook her head, "No no no, I don''t want Jonathan to be caught! He''s very easily swayed - once he''s been caught, I fear he would tell on us." "Are you stupid?!"


    Quincy continued ranting, "All


    Jonathan wants is money! You just


    give him money and tell him that if he pushes everything on Calista, he''d just be convicted as an aplice and go to jail for a few years, and he''ll still have plenty of money when hees out. If he refuses to listen, then we''ll use him of rape and he can spend the rest of his life in jail!"


    They were indeed like mother and daughter - even their thought process was the same.


    Yelena was quite persuaded, but she was still a little hesitant, "It''s not quite enough to have only one witness testify against her..."


    Quincy refused to listen to any of this.


    She shrieked, "I DON''T CARE! You can create evidence! Calista has left my reputation in tatters, I''m going to ruin hers too! How can I be aughing stock while she gets to happily marry Mr. Kallum? HOW CAN THIS HAPPEN?!" "Ok, alright, don''t get all agitated, Quincy. I''ll definitely help you!" Yelena quickly tried to console her, "Don''t worry, if you''re afraid that those people would say bad things about you, I''ll arrange for you to transfer school, ok?"


    "I''m not transferring!" Quincy''s expression grew cold. "If you can''t get this done, I''ll get it done! I have confidence in making sure Calista never walks with her head high in school!"


    Yelena had some reservations, but seeing that Quincy was still extremely angry, she didn''t dare to say anymore.


    "Then I''ll go back to my parents'' ce first..."


    "What do you mean by you''re going back?" Quincy was ready to explode again.


    "Calista is like some madwoman now, if you leave the house, what am I going to do if she tries to get me again?"


    Yelena sighed, "But your father..."


    "I have an idea!"


    After some time had passed, Benedict suddenly heard Yelena wail very loudly and he quickly ran over to check on them, to find that Quincy was running a fever and speaking deliriously. "Daddy!"


    When she saw Benedict, Quincy started crying piteously, "Daddy, don''t chase Mummy out! Callie is trying to get me, you''re not at home either, so only Mummy can protect me!"


    Benedict red at Yelena because his first thought was that Yelena must have badmouthed Calista in front of Quincy.


    But when he thought about how


    sweet and obedient Quincy was, he couldn''t bring himself to believe that Quincy had masterminded this, and thought that she must have been a victim of Jonathan, so he quietly said, "Quincy...Callie is your sister, how can you say such things about her? About today... Daddy will help you settle it."


    "It''s Callie! It''s her!" Quincy cried miserably as she grabbed Benedict''s clothes. "Callie said she felt a bit drunk and so I helped her upstairs. After that she gave me a ss of water to drink...and that happened! I might as well die now! How am I supposed to face anyone now?" Quincy plopped herself on the bed and sobbed uncontrobly. Benedict had doted on her for so many years after all, so when he heard this, he asked seriously, "Are you telling me the truth?"


    Yelena calmly spoke on her behalf,


    "Do you think she would lie to you? You think Quincy wouldnd herself in trouble and then try to frame Calista? Quincy has been so kind to her but she''s been treated like this just because they''re stepsisters! Look at how she''s caused so much harm to Quincy! If she''s angry, she can just attack me! Quincy is only seventeen, what does she know?"


    Both mother and daughter continued to cry and push their point at the same time, and Benedict slowly felt the fury rising inside him, and he angrily shouted, "This ungrateful daughter!"

 Chapter 52 Bitten Right Back

    Calista''s phone was going to explode from the sheer number of calls she received, but she couldn''t get away because Kallum was not letting her go.


    Ever since he had confirmed Calista''s feelings for him, Kallum couldn''t wipe the smile off his face. He fed Calista some medicine, and then happily said, "You''ll be fine in no time, don''t worry!" Calista nodded her head and spun the thumb drive in her hands while thinking how she was going to tell him that she didn''t like him anymore.


    What was this even! If she told him as it was and Kallum believed her, he would think she was ying with him. Otherwise, he would think she''s lying and was ying hard to get.


    So the only way was probably to distance herself from him so that he would figure it out by himself that she was babbling nonsense earlier.


    Kallum''s interest in her could be very useful for what she wanted to do, but in both lifetimes, she didn''t have a habit of using others'' feelings for her own benefit.


    "How did you get drugged?" Kallum couldn''t help but ask when he saw that she was much better.


    Calista didn''t reply. She did not intend for others to interfere with her family''s affairs.


    But Kallum was a smart man. "Was it...your stepmother?"


    Then he quickly asked the next question, "Did they do anything to you?"


    Calista shook her head. At this time the Stafford residence must be aplete mess, but this wasn''t enough to bring them down. After all, Yelena and Quincy''s skin was much thicker than most others.


    Kallum frowned. "That stepmother of yours isn''t anything good anyway. Don''t go back, just live here."


    Calista was shocked, "You want me to live here?"


    ""Why not?"


    Kallum smiled broadly before grabbing her hand and putting the thumb ring back on her thumb.


    "You''re my fianc¨¦e anyway, so why can''t we live together?"


    Kallum imagined being able to see Calista every day, and it seemed like a pretty nice idea.


    Calista felt that this matter had be more serious than she had hoped. She wanted to be Kallum''s godsister, not fianc¨¦e!


    She licked her lips and got ready to try exining.


    Unfortunately Kallum was a man propelled by actions, so since he had ''confirmed'' their rtionship, he couldn''t control himself when he saw Calista lick her lips, and the tip of her tongue stuck out from between her lips. He immediately went forward and caught her tongue with his lips without even thinking, carefully tasting her.


    Calista''s face reddened immediately.


    It had never crossed her mind that one day Kallum would be so strongly attracted to her. Was it because she was the first woman he slept with?


    Kallum finally let go of her and Calista wanted to exin, but he had only let go for a short while and then proceeded to kiss her again.


    Calista really wanted to cry. If it wasn''t because she had used up too much energy earlier and was too weak now, there was no way Kallum would have gotten his way like this.


    When she realized Kallum wanted to go further with her and it wasn''t a good time to exin herself today, the moment Kallum let go of her, she quickly seized the chance to say, "Dad has been calling me non-stop, I think he''s looking for me urgently and I have to go!" Kallum was quite reluctant. He had now satisfied some of his inner desires, and didn''t want to let go of her at all, wishing he could just hold Calista in his arms forever.


    But Calista was obviously rejecting his advances, and Kallum figured she must be feeling shy because Calista had a very reserved sort of personality, and it was only normal that she couldn''t ept the sudden advancement of their rtionship. He touched her swollen lips with some reluctance and hoarsely replied, "Ok, I''ll get someone to send you back."


    Calista breathed a sigh of relief in her heart. She thought it best if she disappeared for a while and let Kallum calm down first.


    The moment Calista left, the smile on Kallum''s facepletely disappeared.


    "Go check what happened today at the Stafford residence."


    His aides quickly found out everything that happened. After all, this matter was so scandalous that the Staffords were probably theughingstock of Horington now! "Jonathan?"


    Kallum frowned. "Are all the police officers in Horington dead? Can''t even catch one man?"


    He pointed at a man, "Gunner, get some men and help them, I must catch Jonathan today. If there''s someone instigating Jonathan, you know what to do, right?" "Yes, Mr. Kallum."


    Kallum nodded his head and sent him on his way. Gunner and Ryder were his best assistants, and he could be assured that they would get the job done.


    The butler was happy to see that Kallum was serious about Calista. To him, Calista was a nicedy, and much better than all those other wealthy families'' pretentious daughters. Calista just stepped into the house when she felt something flying her way.


    She ducked and a tea cup smashed to pieces against the door frame.


    "So you still remembered toe back!"


    Benedict''s furious voice shouted, "Kneel down!"


    Calista looked back at him coldly.


    "Why do I have to kneel?"


    "You little brute!" Benedict was fuming mad now, and Yelena was by his side trying to calm him down. "What did you do today! And where were you just now!" Before Calista could say anything, Quincy walked over.


    "Callie! Why did you set a trap for me?"


    She was now wearing a white dress and her face was all pale, and there was no sign of how licentious she looked earlier on screen.


    She continued in between sobs, "I


    knew something was wrong the moment I stepped into your roomb Jonathan doesn''t even know me, why did you do this to me? Is it because you hate me? We''re sisters! I''m so disappointed in you!"


    Calista quietly let her finish talking before turning back to Benedict, "So after listening to only her side of the story, you suspect I did this?"


    Benedict felt a little guilty when she stared at him and didn''t respond.


    There was a look of hatred in


    Yelena''s eyes as she quickly cut in, "If it''s not you, who else could it be? It can''t be that Quincy drugged herself and then went looking for Jonathan and embarrassed herself on purpose, right? I know you''re jealous of how Quincy is such an obedient girl, and you''re jealous that your father prefers Quincy, but you can''t do something like this!"


    Both mother and daughter continued to echo each other''s sentiments and came closer and closer to Calista.


    "I did not do it," Calista replied coldly while gripping the thumb drive in her hand.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Yelena scoffed, "Then do you dare to confront Jonathan once he''s caught?"


    They both stared hard at Calista.


    It didn''t matter if Calista had taken the thumb drive or not since they were going to insist that Calista


    instigated Jonathan, and becauseet


    Quincy had spoken very softly to Jonathan when they first got into Calista''s room, the CCTV might not have captured that conversation.


    Calistaughed coldly. "And why not?"


    "Enough!"


    Benedict suddenly stood up. "Callie, you really didn''t do anything to your sister?"


    Calista was indeed very suspicious since this happened in her room, and Quincy was harmed while she came out unscathed.


    Disappointment shed across Calista''s eyes.


    "I didn''t do anything."


    She hadn''t done anything, whereas Quincy was the one who drugged herself and got involved with Jonathan. Even if the footage was broadcast, she waspletely innocent! Yelena''s phone suddenly rang, and her eyes lit up after taking the call.


    "You''ve got him? Ok, we''reing right away."


    She put down the phone and smiled coldly at Calista.


    "Since there''s no point in quarreling here, let''s go to the police station and confront him! Jonathan would definitely know exactly what happened."

 Chapter 53 The Man Behind Her Stepmother And Illegitimate Sister

    Calista''s chest tightened when she saw that her stepmother was full of confidence.


    It seemed like Yelena was getting one of her backers to help her and things were getting interesting. But Calista wasn''t sure if it was going to be the head of the Langleys, or that person... But this was a small matter and so Yelena probably wouldn''t look for that person, so it was probably the head of the Langleys.


    After calcting the odds, Calista quickly texted Jarrett.


    The car reached the police station very quickly, but they weren''t able to see Jonathan immediately because there were others seeing him at the moment.


    The police officers were very puzzled by this, "Who is this Jonathan Larkin? It''s only been a while since we caught him and there are already three or four parties trying to see him."


    Calista overheard theirments and had a bad feeling about things, but then she quickly rxed again.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    If Yelena had gotten the head of the Langleys to threaten Jonathan, then Jarrett''s appearance would be enough to make Jonathan stay on her side. Plus, she had that thumb drive with her, so she was definitely going to win this case.


    Benedict pulled a glum face and didn''t say anything, and he was quieter than usual. Recently his elder daughter had given him a terrible headache, and his younger daughter''s plight had given him heartache. He too, wished that this whole thing wasn''t Callie''s doing, but Yelena was also right in saying that Callie was ill and one couldn''t judge her thoughts like a normal person.


    Calista saw that all three of them weren''t talking, so she smiled coldly and walked out.


    She was about to give Jarrett a call when suddenly she was dragged into a storeroom and pushed hard onto the floor.


    Calista got a shock and wanted to scream, but before she could do that, someone squeezed his hands around her neck, ready to strangle her.


    Even with just one look, she knew who it was and her eyes widened. She didn''t think Yelena dared to find this person to help!


    But that didn''t sound right. If Yelena had looked for him, he would have simply sent anyone to help, and not this particr man.


    "Calista...?"


    The other party''s voice was as cold as a venomous snake, and Calista''s strength had not returned fully to her. No...even if she had recoveredpletely, she was no match for this man.


    "Do you know why I''vee looking for you?"


    He asked mockingly, his hands squeezing her neck tightly, as if he was going to strangle her to death but left a small bit of air for her to keep living.


    Calista''s feet were slowly lifted off the ground. Her struggling was futile and her brain was slowly losing oxygen. She didn''t want to use the needle in her hand because she was counting on him to not kill her, and she couldn''t expose her abilities too early on. As expected, the man suddenly let go of her and smoothed his clothes down.


    Calista was suddenly able to breathe again, and she copsed on the floor panting. She red back at this man, her eyes full of intense hatred.


    "Come to think of it, you don''t know who I am, so let me introduce myself." The man smiled slightly, as if he was a real gentleman.


    "My name is Sterling Wolford. I''m not sure if you''ve heard of the Wolford family in Summerbank?"


    Calista was panting while smiling coldly. Of course she knew which Wolford family he was talking about, and she even knew why he was helping Yelena.


    Sterling looked down pitifully at Calista. To him, the Staffords were small fry.


    "Do you know why I''ve dragged you here? I didn''t want to either, but you tried to harm something I like, and I happened to be in Horington, so I thought I''d drop by to teach you a lesson, so that you learn who you can touch, and who you can''t." Haha! Something he likes!


    Calista''s eyes were bloodshot, and she smiled threateningly.


    So she was just unlucky to have done this at a time when Sterling was in Horington. And Sterling said he liked Quincy, but those were all lies!


    Sterling had made a huge sacrifice to cover up his real motive.


    Quincy at this time probably didn''t know it herself that she wasn''t a daughter of the Stafford family, but she was actually the illegitimate daughter of the head of the Wolford family, Harvey Wolford.


    And this man in front of her was Harvey''s godson.


    Harvey hated Yelena and naturally did not care for her child. But perhaps Harvey had done too many evil things in his life, so he had no other children besides Quincy, and so he allowed Yelena to look for him for help as ast resort on ount of Quincy. This background story was quiteplicated, but Calista knew that since Sterling had appeared, then today''s case was going to be difficult to handle.


    When he saw that Calista didn''t say


    anything, Sterling was a bit annoyed


    and said, "What are you thinking about? Jonathan?" He continued gleefully Don''t worry, I''ve already settled Jonathan''s case. He''s going to say you''re the one who instigated him, and soon enough the police will find evidence of you buying those drugs illegally. Also, Mr. Sinir can''t help you either, so if nothing goes wrong, you''re going to jail, Ms. Stafford."


    Calista''s heart dropped a little, and she slowly staggered back up on her feet. "Are you done talking? Can I go now?"


    Sterling raised an eyebrow. "Of course. I''m a kind person - I just want you to go to jail, but I don''t intend to kill you, so you don''t have to worry about that."


    Calista felt deep disgust in her heart


    because she knew she was facing a terribly vicious and evil man. The Fairchilds were a beacon of lightin the ocean and always helping others, while the Wolfords were like a trap in the dark forest and always harming others!


    She suppressed the hatred in her and started walking towards the door, but just as she tried to open the door, Sterling pressed her against the door.


    Sterling felt that this trip was really worth his time. He''d never thought that this worthless Stafford family had such a special youngdy.


    Calista held onto her needle and was ready to strike anytime. Her needle couldn''t hurt others, but it could make one numb for a while. But if she attacked him, then he would be defensive and she might attract unnecessary attention. "What now? Didn''t you say you''d let me go?" Her voice was very calm and quiet, and this was the strangest thing about her.


    Sterling curled his lips into a smile, "Sure you can go, but Ms. Stafford, there''s one more thing you haven''t given me."


    Then he immediately proceeded to search her body.


    He patted her down without reservations, and Calista was about to lose all patience when he found a thumb drive and raised an eyebrow at it.


    "Ms. Stafford, it won''t do you any good to keep this, so you''d better give it to me."


    Calista had clenched her teeth so hard that they were chattering, but then she was no match for this man even in her previous life after thirty years. Now she had been reborn for only a while, so she wasn''t going to fight with him. "Are you done now? Can I go?"


    Sterling took in a deep breath and said regretfully, "You smell so nice...and you feel so good."


    Just when Calista was about to insert a needle into him, he finally let go of Calista.


    "A pity you''re going to jail, and I can''t bail you out, otherwise I''m not letting you go for sure." Calista pushed him aside hard.


    "I feel the opposite way, I feel like puking the moment I see you, so stay far away from me!" Sterlingughed coldly and wanted to respond, but Calista had opened the door and left.


    All the parts of her body that were touched by him earlier started to feel very cold, and Calista wanted to take a good shower right now. But then the moment she came back out, Yelena caught hold of her. Her face was full of confidence, and she said with a wily smile, "Callie, let''s go, it''s our turn to see Jonathan."


    Calista''s phone received a text from Jarrett: Sorry, Jonathan has already been bribed by someone else.

 Chapter 54 Crisis

    Calista closed her eyes for a moment. Since Jarrett couldn''t help her, then she was going to be in danger today.


    When she saw the red marks on Calista''s neck, Yelena had to suppress the glee in her heart and she coldly remarked, "Bet you didn''t expect this right? The next head of the Wolford family is in love with Quincy! You want to fight with us all by yourself? You''re really not afraid to die, huh!


    But I''ve grossly underestimated you - I didn''t think Jonathan would have been bribed by you! No wonder Quincy and I fell into your trap. But who cares? Jonathan''s parents are now in our hands, who do you think he will listen to now? Just wait to go to jail, you little sl*t!" After saying this, she tried to push Calista but Calista caught her hand.


    Sterling was in love with Quincy? So Yelena was still afraid of others knowing about her ugly past!


    The look in her eyes was very scary, chilling to the bone. But she was smiling and looked very creepy.


    "You''re so sure I can''t turn the tables on you? So sure I''ll go to jail?"


    Yelena wanted to argue back, but her mouth was only able to open and couldn''t say anything under this invisible pressure from Calista.


    Calista looked behind her sullenly, and Sterling had juste out and was smiling as he looked at her. His expression was like he was watching an ant, his face confident of winning and nothing in the world bothered him.


    "What are the Wolfords anyway? It''s still too early to say who will have thestugh!"


    Then Calista left for the interrogation room.


    The Staffords had not formally pressed charges against Jonathan, and the police were only detaining him at the moment. So since Benedict wanted to see him, they did not stop him.


    When Calista went in, she was met with a metal window grill. Later Jonathan woulde in and sit on the other side of the grill.


    In this short span of time, Calista had thought of the worst possible scenario. Even if Jonathan used her and med everything on her, they still had to create evidence of her buying the drugs and clean up all the evidence, and she didn''t believe there was no other loophole she could use.


    If nothing else worked, she still had the recording of Jonathan and Yelena in bed, and since Sterling didn''t mention anything about that earlier, Jonathan obviously hadn''t told him about it, so she could still count on that.


    When she thought about Sterling''s disgusting face, Calista felt extremely ufortable.


    In her previous life, it was Sterling who got his hands on the K Virus and gave it to Quincy, and that was how she got infected with that incurable disease. She had originally intended to wait until she had be stronger before confronting him, but since he hade knocking on her door first, then she wasn''t going to hold back.


    Benedict nced at Calista with mixed feelings. Then Wyatt walked in, obviously intending to listen by the side, while Quincy immediately put on her most pitiful expression when she saw him.


    "Wyatt...."


    Quincy cried and tried to hug Wyatt, but the moment he saw her, he thought of that scene of Quincy in the bathroom with Jonathan, and even though he knew she had been drugged, he still felt very ufortable.


    When she got pushed away by Wyatt, Quincy felt hate rise up in her and she looked at Wyatt with tears in her eyes, her lips trembling as she said, "Wyatt, do you hate me now? I didn''t mean to do this, it''s all my sister''s fault!"


    Wyatt looked at Calista and asked coldly, "Was it really you?"


    Calista didn''t say anything, so Yelena decided to make a scene, her voice loud and high pitched.


    "If it''s not her, who else? She''s already mentally ill and never saw Quincy as her younger sister. This all happened in her room too. If she wasn''t the one, then you mean Quincy drugged herself and then went to get involved with that scoundrel?"


    And Quincy has also said that when


    she helped Calista back to her room, Calista looked like she had lost consciousness. But when Jonathan was taking advantage of Quincy after she had lost control of herself, Calista disappeared. If Calista wasn''t trying to harm Quincy, she would have gone to stop this from happening when she heard noises in the bathroom! Why did she run out of the room? What sort of elder sister is she?"


    These were the very words that made Benedict start to suspect his elder daughter as well. If she didn''t have any ill intentions, why did his older daughter not help his younger daughter, and instead watched as Quincy got hurt by that awful man? Wyatt had nothing to say to this. He was quite sure that Calista had deliberately allowed it to happen. But he wasn''t sure if the drugs were added by Calista or not. If it was really her, then Calista must be really mad...


    Calista watched all this unfold before her eyes, and madness shed in her eyes.


    "Yes, I''m the one who called a huge bunch of people to watch this footage, I''m the one who installed a CCTV in my own room, and then waited for Mrs. Stafford to


    broadcast this in front of everybody. If Quincy hadn''t called so many people over, and Mrs. Stafford had stayed quietly at her parents'' ce and not suddenly barge in and insist on watching the footage there and then, who would have seen any of this? You mean I forced you all to do this?"


    Benedict was about to speak when Calista immediately cut him off.


    "Dad, you''ve lived forty over years, can''t you use your brain for once? You think Quincy invited so many people over only to embarrass


    herself? No! She wanted them to see ME embarrass myself! Mrs. Stafford was supposed to be at her parents'' ce, so why did she suddenlye home and y this footage? It wasn''t to show how immoral her daughter was, but it was to destroy MY reputation! She was the one who called Jonathan over in the first ce, and she was the one who


    installed that CCTV. If you think about this entire matter more


    carefully, you''ll figure it out!


    Things have be what they are now because they were stupid and fell into their own trap! But now they''ve turned around to me everything on me, isn''t thatpletely ridiculous?"


    Everyone within earshot was shocked. They never thought Calista would say these words out so directly.


    Benedict felt that Calista was actually making sense. Everything that happened seemed fishy and there were many unexinable areas, but if he followed Calista''s logic that she wasn''t the one who was plotting against Quincy, but it was Yelena plotting against her, then everything made sense.


    But was that possible? Yelena came up with such an evil n to attack Callie?


    Benedict breathed deeply and was quiet for a long time before he finally said, "Then when you saw Quincy being...well...why didn''t you stop him?"


    Calista chortled and looked at Quincy who had gone pale in the face.


    "Dad, you think Quincy was really unaware of what was happening? I was pretending to sleep the entire time, and I witnessed her making a clearheaded decision to go with Jonathan to the bathroom, so why should I interrupt them having a good time? Things turned out this way only because Quincy miscalcted how long it would take Yelena to reach the house, and that doesn''t have anything to do with me. Why should I bother myself with this matter at all?" "Callie! How can you malign me like this!"


    Quincy suddenly shrieked. She pulled at her own clothes in a panic and didn''t want Calista to say anymore. The fear in her heart grew especially when she saw that Wyatt looked as though he believed Calista. Yelena was very nervous too, but she soon calmed herself down andughed coldly, "Calista, you''re really good at making up stories. But Jonathan is on his way here, we can just ask him directly!N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Besides, the drugs that Quincy took are illegal substances and the police have sent people to investigate already, so I''m sure we''ll know immediately who was trying to harm others."


    At this moment, a police officer walked in and saluted Wyatt, then got grabbed by Yelena. "Do you have news for us?"


    The man got a fright when he saw Yelena''s fierce expression.

 Chapter 55 Scoring An Own Goal

    "We have caught the supplier and he has confessed that ady named Calista bought these illegal substances from him, and this is the evidence he provided..."


    Benedict also ran over to look at the evidence. He had suspected his mentally ill elder daughter after listening to Yelena''s analysis of the matter, but then his elder daughter''s rebuttal didn''t have any loopholes and so he started to suspect Yelena. Then now there was evidence from the drug supplier, and he spat all his fury out at Calista.


    "What else do you have to say for yourself?"Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Calista remainedpletely unaffected by this anger. "One can always create evidence, what''s there to say?"


    After Wyatt heard Calista''s exnation, his intuition told him that she was telling the truth and she hadn''t done anything at all, and all this was Yelena and her daughter getting their just desserts. But then he looked at Quincy whose eyes were swollen from crying, and felt that the girl that he had watched grow up couldn''t be the immoral sort either...


    Before he could say anything, Yelenaughed, "Sure, evidence can be created, then what about Jonathan''s usations? If he uses you, are you going to say that he''s been bribed into doing so?"


    Calista smiled coldly, "Before we came in, he''s already seen so many groups of people, surely it''s not hard to believe he''s been bribed."


    Just when everything was in a mess, Jonathan entered the room.


    He looked extremely depressed as he sat down behind the metal grill, and then looked with a shock at the people in the same room.


    If he had known the Staffords were as good as a death trap, he wouldn''t have done anything just for this little bit of money. All the people he had seen earlier were all so frightening, especially the man who looked fairly gentle, but had looked at him with disdain and immediately used his parents to threaten him, saying that if he didn''t use Calista, he would throw his parents into the ocean to feed the fish!


    The moment Jonathan entered the room, everyone had different expressions on their face. Benedict was the angriest one! ording to Yelena, this man had drugged and raped both his wife and daughter! This man was definitely unforgivable, and he was determined to send Jonathan to jail for the rest of his life!


    If not for the metal grill blocking him, Benedict would probably have gone forward to beat him up.


    Quincy then cried as she said, "You animal! Say it! Why did you do this to me?!" Jonathan saw Quincy was putting on a pretense andughed bitterly in his heart.


    It was true that Quincy had started suffering the effects of the drug, but even before the drug had fully taken effect, she was already behaving licentiously. Even if there were some other men in the room, she would have probably gone with anybody anyway. But now she was crying so miserably and saying how pitiful she was, as if he had raped her!


    Yelena believed in Sterling''s ruthlessness, and she had erased all evidence of hermunication with Jonathan. So this time Calista was definitely not getting away with this. She rushed over, pointed a finger straight at Jonathan''s face and shouted "You scoundrel! I called you over to give treatment! Why did you try to hurt our family? Who put you up to this?!" She nearly asked if it was Calista who instigated him.


    Wyatt remained calm and looked carefully at Jonathan. He realized that Jonathan looked like he had been beaten, since one side of his face looked slightly swollen and his expression was extremely nervous, as if he was having a violent battle in his heart. What Calista said earlier was not unbelievable either - he really might have been bribed by now.


    But the calmest person in the room was probably Calista. She had expected that Jonathan would push the me entirely on her. After all, Sterling had plenty of tricks up his sleeve to make sure Jonathan listened to him.


    "Say something! Why did you do this!" Yelena said so as she looked triumphantly at Calista. She just needed Jonathan to use Calista and let them drag her away! After being in prison for eight to ten years, she would have lost all credibility and wouldn''t pose a threat to her anymore. Jonathan got a shock when he heard Yelena''s voice.


    He looked as if he was really struggling, his two hands pulling hard at his own hair, both his eyes bloodshot and full of deep regret.


    "It wasn''t me! It wasn''t my idea, I was instigated by someone else!"


    Jonathan''s words made Yelena and Quincy''s heart leap for joy, and Benedict mmed the table hard.


    "Who put you up to this? And what is that person''s motive?!"


    Benedict was hoping that the mastermind behind all this was someone outside the family, like a business rival, for example. But even his worst enemy would never have thought of something so disgusting and vicious.


    When he saw Jonathan about to speak, Wyatt quickly interjected, "You have to think very carefully about what you say next. You''re now being used of rape, and if you spout nonsense here, then you''ll be charged with more crimes."


    When Jonathan heard Wyatt threatening him, he looked to his left to see that there was someone standing outside the door and smiling coldly at him.


    Calista noticed where Jonathan was looking and her heart froze. Sterling was still around?


    As long as he was around, even if she took out the recording she had now, the other party had plenty of means to prove that her evidence was false. The Wolfords were a force to be reckoned with, and she probably had to admit defeat today.


    Calista''s heart began to sink


    because her opponent was strong,


    but she gritted her teeth and told herself to pull her socks up! She hadn''t lost yet! Even if Sterling had the ability to keep the sky from falling, there must be some doophole she could find!


    After being frightened by Sterling''s stare, Jonathan shuddered and finally made his decision.


    "The person who instigated me was..."


    Jonathan looked towards Calista and said, "Yelena."


    Yelena immediately burst out at Calista.


    "I just knew it was you! Tell me! Why did you do this to Quincy? Why did you do this to me!"


    After saying this, she realized that she might have heard something wrongly. When she realized everyone was staring at her, she suddenly snapped out of it and yelled at Jonathan, "Did you make a mistake?!" Jonathan finally stopped hesitating and looked at Yelena, ready to bite a piece of her flesh off!


    "I didn''t make any mistake - you are the one who instigated me!"


    Behind the door, Sterling''s face lost its smile immediately. Did this little ant know what he was saying? Was he sending his parents to die?!


    Jonathan on the other hand, was


    just spilling the beans on his side, "I''m not some amazing psychiatric consultant, in fact I''m quite notorious and many people don''t dare to look for me. But one day Yelena suddenly turned up and offered me a million dors, and told me to..."


    "Stop talking! Stop talking! Where are the police? Drag him away now!!"


    Before anyone else could react, some people came from behind the metal grill and dragged Jonathan away. Jonathan knew these were probably going to be hisst words, so he shouted loudly, "It''s Yelena! She wanted me to sleep with Calista! To help her ruin Calista! It''s her! She''s the one whonded me in trouble!!"


    Wyatt saw that there were really people listening to Yelena''s orders and grabbed the metal grill and asked sternly, "Who are you people? Where are you bringing him to?!"


    Jonathan had already been dragged out of sight, and the only officer who remained replied apologetically, "Sorry sir, the superintendent says he wants to interrogate this man personally."


    Wyatt suddenly understood what was going on. It wasn''t the superintendent, but the man behind Yelena! This man had such influence!


    Jonathan''s voice slowly faded into the silence, and there were mixed expressions on everyone''s faces.


    When she thought about what Sterling must have looked like the moment his ns fell through, Calista suddenly snorted.


    But Sterling was quite capable indeed, and this police station was under his control already. She thought about how Sterling had confidently dered that she was definitely going to jail and wondered if he felt pain from being pped in the face. Benedict bolted up from his chair, and stared gravely at Yelena, like a volcano on the verge of eruption.


    "Is everything he said true? You actually tried to do something like that to Callie?!"

 Chapter 56 Planning Revenge

    "No! No! It''s not true! Benedict, you have to believe me!" Yelena had gone into a panic. Didn''t Jonathan already agree to use Calista? Why did he suddenly turn on them? What was Sterling doing? Quincy was also stunned by this turn of events. Didn''t her mother say that everything was already settled? Why didn''t Jonathan follow their n?


    Wyatt was also taken by surprise. Yelena''s behavior earlier made them all think that Jonathan would use Calista, but he didn''t, and even said that Yelena was the one who instigated him.


    Calista was also confused for a while, but after thinking about it a little longer, she understood what happened. There was only one person who could make Sterling concede defeat...


    Sterling used one hand to p Jonathan on the face, causing Jonathan to copse onto the floor, and then Sterling carefully wiped his hand.


    "Spit it out! Why didn''t you follow my instructions?"


    When he thought about how he got such a p in the face after confidently telling Calista that she was going to jail, a murderous glint could be seen in his eyes.


    Jonathan was pped so hard that he spat blood out, and heughed as he remained on the floor. "Why should I listen to you? You immediately tried to corner me from the beginning! Even if I listened to you, nothing good would happen to me!" He wiped the blood from his mouth.


    "I suppose you don''t know right? Before you came, someone else already came looking for me and said he has already put my wife and children somewhere safe, but my parents were captured by the mafia! He said that as long as I said the truth, he will help me save them. So why should I disregard someone who''s trying to protect me and listen to someone who threatens me?!"


    The moment Sterling heard his exnation, he knew who that someone was. He wanted to kick Jonathan in anger, but someone walked in and prevented him from doing so.


    "Apologies sir, the Staffords have pressed charges against Jonathan, can I take him away now?"


    Sterling had never been humiliated so badly in his entire life, so of course he wasn''t going to let him take Jonathan away. He tried to punch the man who came in, but the man caught his fist.


    "Mr. Wolford, if I were you, I wouldn''t go against the Fairchilds. This is Horington, not Summerbank. And even if we were in Summerbank, even Harvey would not be so reckless towards Mr. Kallum. You have already crossed the line."


    Sterling contorted his handsome face in anger, "And why does Kallum want to interfere?!"


    The man stared at Sterling as if he was stupid, "Because Ms. Stafford is Mr. Kallum''s fianc¨¦e!"


    But didn''t Kallum hate his fianc¨¦e very much?!


    Sterling didn''t get to say this, and watched as Kallum''s men took Jonathan away.


    He didn''t want to bother about these two useless women, but he knew that if he didn''t save Yelena and Quincy, they wouldn''t be able to do anything by themselves. So Sterling had no choice but to coldly make a phone call. By the time she came out from the police station, it was already quitete at night.


    But this didn''t affect Calista''s high spirits at all.


    She had originally imagined that she would have a tough battle to fight, but everything was settled so easily! Benedict, on the other hand, continued quarreling with Yelena, and they stopped only because Quincy pretended to faint. When she thought about the look of hatred in Yelena''s eyes before she left, Calista sighed. She had wanted to get back at Yelena and Quincy when Yelena had let down her guard. She didn''t want to stay in the same house as her enemies. But because Sterling had suddenly interfered, if she didn''t manage to get Yelena out of the house this time, it would be hard to deal with them.


    Wyatt saw that Calista didn''t go to the hospital with the rest of her family, so he ran over to offer her a lift somewhere.


    He didn''t know who to believe anymore. If Yelena was the mastermind, then was Quincy really innocent? He refused to think about this question, but regretted suspecting Calista.


    But before he could get close to Calista, someone walked out from the shadows and pulled Calista into his embrace.


    When he saw who it was, Wyatt stopped in his tracks. The person Calista wanted to see the most now was probably this person.


    Kallum''s sudden appearance gave Calista a shock.


    He raised an eyebrow slightly. "Are you happy to see me? Aren''t you really grateful to me? Do you want to offer yourself to me as repayment?"


    Calista nearly rolled her eyes at him, but Kallum had indeed gotten her out of this sticky situation, so she quietly said, "Thanks for today."


    "What are you thanking me for!"


    looked


    Kallum looked as if he couldn''t care less, but there was a coldness in his eyes. "The Wolfords have always been a very hateful bunch of people, and I wouldn''t bother myself with him it he didn''t do anything to offend me. But since he actually stretched his arm so far out and tried to harm you, he''s lucky I didn''t chop off his hand!"


    Calista felt touched for a moment, but just for a moment.


    "He is very irritating indeed. Do you want to teach him a lesson he''ll never forget?" asked Calista.


    Kallum was walking side by side with her under the streetlights and his bodyguards were following behind them. When he heard what Calista said, he didn''t shoot it down, and asked with some interest, "How?" Calista smiled calmly. "ording to what I know, he''s here for thend in Citraine."


    She tried to recall all the details of what happened in her previous life, and slowly exined, "The Wolfords want to build a private estate of bungalows for the wealthy there, and the owner of thend is going to sell thend to the highest bidder. The Wolfords are bent on getting that piece ofnd, so what you need to do is to push up the price of that piece ofnd."


    Kallum didn''t expect Calista to know anything about such things. He stroked his chin and said, "That piece ofnd is not bad, and I thought of buying it too. So you''re saying I should happily let him have it?" Calista smiled as she threw a nce at him, "Not happily, but begrudgingly! There''s a problem with that piece ofnd, and I can guarantee you that the Wolfords will never recoup the money they pour into it." "There''s a problem?" Kallum narrowed his eyes at this. Various parties had already checked thend and hadn''t found any issues with it, so why did Calista say there was a problem?


    "On the surface there are no issues,


    but before that piece ofnd was developed, it was andfill! As the city developed, thendfill was buried deep underground and was made into a golf course so it doesn''t look like there are problems. But the ground has gone through many years of dposition and it is nowpletely contaminated. So once you try to pound theN?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    foundation and build houses on it, there would be a terrible odor, and anyone living there will develop skin problems."


    She wasn''t simply shooting in the dark. The person who bought it in her previous life had suffered terrible losses, and the seller of thend had disappeared by the time problems surfaced. Kallum saw that she said all this with great confidence and decided to believe her words. "Ok, I''ll help you then. I can''t stand the Wolford family myself either, so it''ll be not a bad idea to teach them a lesson."


    Calista couldn''t help but smile when she saw how easily Kallum agreed. Under the streetlights, her face was not as intense as in the daytime and looked much gentler. Kallum felt his heart move, and he gently touched her hair. "Did Sterling try to do anything to you today?


    Calista nearly wanted to tell him all the awful things Sterling did to her, but suddenly she thought, since when was she so close to Kallum?


    Calista looked up at Kallum''s handsome face and felt some confusion in her heart. She really didn''t want to be in a rtionship right now, especially with Kallum. But why did she feel herself falling deeper and deeper for Kallum? She opened and then closed her mouth, but seeing that Kallum had helped her twice today, she decided to be a little gentler on him.


    "If I said that actually I don''t like you anymore, and what happened earlier today was just a misunderstanding, what would you do?"

 Chapter 57 I Will Woo You Then

    Kallum was stunned for a few moments before he broke into a smile and said, "Are you joking with me?"


    "No, I''m don''t joke about such things."


    Calista''s expression was very solemn, her eyes bright in the night. But that serious tone of voice made Kallum''s heart suddenly burn with anger. "Are you ying with me?"


    Calista saw Kallum raise his eyebrows slightly and she knew he was going to blow his top, so she put two fingers on his lips to stop him.


    "I''m not ying with you. Those things I said to you today while I was in a daze weren''t lies to cheat you. I did like you before, no, the word ''like'' is not sufficient. You were the only reason why I continued living, and I loved you deeply..."


    Kallum felt himself tremble at the words ''loved deeply'', and the fire that threaten to destroy everything in its way mysteriously disappeared.


    Calista startedughing bitterly at herself. When she saw him, she felt she could see her torn and battered previous life.


    "....but I''ve be very tired. I''ve liked you for more than ten years but there''s no response at all, and even the deepest feelings have worn out.


    There were many things that wore her feelings out, but she didn''t intend to exin each one in detail to him.


    "So everything I said to you earlier were things I wanted to say from a long time ago, but I couldn''t say them before. But that was the past, and now I don''t like you anymore."


    The words ''I don''t like you anymore'' made Kallum feel bitterness in his heart for the first time.


    How could she just not like him anymore? What she said earlier that day proved how much she loved him before, and how was it possible that she just didn''t like him anymore?


    Calista put her hand down and looked straight at him as she said, "I''m very grateful for your help today, and I can understand why your desire is only for me, since I''m the first woman you''ve slept with. But that was not real love, and I hope you can start over from today onwards..."


    The moment she finished talking, Kallum suddenly pulled her waist towards him, bent down and kissed her on the lips.


    They had already exchanged kisses many times, but each time they touched each other, they could feel a strange sort of excitement that made them shudder.


    It was a feeling that made them want to dive deeper, but it also felt dangerous at the same time.


    Kallum let go of Calista before she could struggle in protest. She looked up at him and saw his deeply set eyes looking straight at her.


    Kallum''s feelings were usually strong and direct, but now his eyes had a mixture of anger, viciousness, a refusal to admit defeat and even some bitterness.


    "What do you mean by start over, I''m the first man you''ve slept with too, right?"


    Calista pursed her lips together. "But that doesn''t mean..."


    "So why don''t you give me a chance?"


    Calista immediately frowned.


    "So you wooed me before, so I''ll woo you from now on, ok?"


    The confusion in Kallum''s eyes all turned into confidence. "I''ll definitely win you over!"


    "No you won''t!"


    He didn''t know which nerve of Calista''s he struck with his words, but she pushed him away with all her might and then her expression suddenly became cold again. "It''s veryte, I must go back."


    Kallum was about to get angry again when he saw that she became cold again, but suppressed it.


    He had never experienced this feeling of getting something and then losing it again and was very confused. "Isn''t the feeling of being wooed nice? Why are you angry?"


    His anxiety and cautious questions only got a snort from Calista.


    "I''m not angry at all, I just never thought you''d actually think of wooing me. So since I went after you for eleven years, you can woo me for eleven years too."


    Her words were like a huge tub of water that drenched Kallumpletely. He suddenly felt that there was still an invisible wall between him and Calista.


    In the hospital, after Benedict had left with mixed feelings, Quincy started going hysterical.


    "Mum! Didn''t you say there won''t be any problems? Why did Jonathan turn around and use you? If we can''t push all the me on Calista and use this as a bigger scandal to distract the public, how am I going to face anybody in Horington?!" Yelena was in hot soup herself - Benedict had calmly told her earlier that if he finds out she was really the mastermind after a thorough investigation, he was going to divorce her.


    Yelena was in a panic now. Benedict was usually a really clueless man, but after all that happened, he had begun to realize that many things were not what they seemed. If he really divorced her, where could she go?


    "Quincy....Quincy, don''t worry. Nobody will say what happened today."


    "They won''t say?" Quincy''s red at her with bloodshot eyes and quietly said, "Thirteen people saw the footage today and you can guarantee none of them will say anything? You think the Stafford family has enough influence to shut their mouths?!" Yelena grew serious and reiterated, "Don''t worry, have you forgotten about my father? He won''t let those people simply spout nonsense."


    Actually the Langleys'' influence


    wasn''t really sufficient to shut


    people up, but Sterling was different. The Wolford''s were infamous for being a nefarious bunch, and they were definitely able to shut the


    mouths of everyone who was present earlier. But Yelena wasn''t going to tell Quincy about her connection with the Wolfords.


    Quincy was still young, so she believed what her mother said.


    "Really? Grandpa will help me? And those people won''t say anything?"


    Yelena nodded. "Don''t worry, I guarantee you they won''t say a single word."


    Quincy was still a little unsure, but she had calmed down and finally started worrying about her own mother.


    "But Mum...after today, what are you going to do? Jonathan has identified you as the master mind, and Daddy..." Yelena''s face paled as she replied, "Nothing will happen...he has no evidence, so nothing will happen to me...'' That was what she said, but she was still frowning, which meant that it wasn''t easy to tidy up this mess. Quincy angrily said, "It''s all your fault! If you were a bit more careful, this wouldn''t have happened!"


    Yelena naturally put all the me on herself and said, "I was not careful enough...but... Quincy! Even if I''m able to get through this, I probably can''t do much anymore for the time being. You''re going to start school again soon, and your school is different from other schools. So you must do well and get back at her for your Mummy!"


    Quincy wasn''t so sure when she agreed to this - her results had always been poor, but that stupid Calista always got top scores every year. All the teachers liked Calista, and even said she was a genius. It wasn''t easy to get in front of her.


    Suddenly Quincy remembered the papers in the little house that her grandparents had left for Calista.


    If she remembered correctly, Calista was excellent at doing research and development of medicinal drugs, so those papers...


    Quincy had a scheming look in her eyes.


    Shortly after ?alista arrived home,


    Kallum sent an evening gown over and invited her to an auction two dayster, Calista had made Kallum very unhappy earlier, and she thought that going by his


    ovelist


    personality, he would ignore her. She


    hadn''t expected him to tum around and send her an invite.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Calista initially did not want to go, but when she realized this auction was for that piece ofnd she mentioned earlier and Sterling would surely be there, she hesitated for a while before finally agreeing to go. She guessed that Sterling would go because in her previous life, after news broke out about how that piece ofnd was problematic, Quincy had eximed, "So d my brother didn''t buy that piece ofnd!" At that time she had already been captured by Quincy, and she had a crazy thought in heart again and again, why wasn''t it the Wolfords who bought this cursed piece ofnd instead?

 Chapter 58 Stepping Up The Game

    Calista smiled coldly and took the clothes upstairs when she saw the workmen walking out along with Benedict.


    Benedict seemed to have aged a lot in just one day. After all that happened, he felt too embarrassed to step out of the house, but thankfully he remembered to remove the CCTVs in Calista''s room.


    "Callie..." Benedict wanted to apologize, but when he saw Calista''s small face with an icy expression on it, he didn''t say anything in the end.


    When she saw his bent back, Calista was strangely reminded of the time in her previous life when Yelena and Quincy had been taken back by the Wolford family, and the Staffords lost all standing in society. At that time Benedict had apologized to her again and again, and that painful and sorrowful look on his face made her unable to hate him.


    To be fair, both she and Benedict were sacrificialmbs in Quincy and her mother''s ns, and since she didn''t meet with a good end, Benedict was not in much better shape either.


    "Dad, you don''t have to worry about anybody else knowing what happened today. Since Quincy is still in hospital, it''ll take some days before this entire matter is settled. You''d better go to office tomorrow, don''t neglect your official duties."


    Benedict thought to himself, how can such a scandal not make it to the public''s ears? He didn''t believe everybody who knew about it would keep mum.


    "It''s alright...you don''t have to worry about what''s happening at home...you''re going to start school soon, and you''re going to skip a grade and get your Master''s degree right? Just focus on your studies..."


    "I''m serious."


    Calista stood on the stairs and told Benedict in a very serious voice, "Nothing about today will go out, I guarantee you, so don''t worry anymore."


    When it came to Quincy''s reputation, she was sure that the Wolfords were not going to just sit there and do nothing about it. Everyone knew how unscrupulous the Wolford family of Summerbank was all these years. This family was capable of doing anything. So Sterling would make sure that all the eyewitnesses would carry this to their grave, unless they wanted to die early.


    Benedict shook his head when he suddenly thought - did Callie ask the Fairchilds for help? That must be it! Only the Fairchilds would be capable of keeping everything under wraps.


    By the time he looked up and wanted to confirm this with Calista, she had already gone upstairs.


    Benedict rxed when he thought about this, but when he thought about Quincy he started frowning again. Even if such a major scandal didn''t reach the public, it would still be spread within smaller circles. He could only hope that everyone would really not say anything about what had happened. Otherwise how was Quincy going to find a husband in the future?


    Two days passed quickly.


    Calista busied herself developing medicines and didn''t bother with what was happening outside. She didn''t bother finding out what was happening with Yelena''s case, because since Sterling was around, no matter how unwilling he was, he would still make sure everything turned out fine, and Calista just had to wait for conclusion of the matter.


    But it was such a pity - if Sterling hadn''t suddenly interfered, this was such a good chance to chase Yelena out of the house and push Quincy into the mud!


    She wanted to take revenge, but not the sort that required ten years of tolerating and determination. What she wanted was a revenge so swift that her enemies didn''t know what hit them, and not what take each step slowly and make them wary of her.


    But when she thought about it from a different angle, since this was quite a big blow to the mother and daughter pair, they probably wouldn''t try to attack her for the time being. So she decided to focus on what she wanted to do for herself and wait for the next opportunity to get back at them.


    Kallum was distractedly ying with his cell phone. "Quintus, why do you think she''s not picking up my calls? It''s already been two days, isn''t she worried I might be really angry or that I don''t like her anymore?"


    Quintus Parker was just transferred in to be Kallum''s personal bodyguard. When he heard this question, all he thought was that Calista probably didn''t care about Kallum in the first ce, so she wouldn''t be worried about whether he liked her or not. But of course, he couldn''t say anything like that out loud.


    "Mr. Kallum, all girls have to keep some reservations, and won''t be moved so easily, right? If she was the type that was so easily moved, you wouldn''t like her because then she wouldn''t pose a challenge to you." Kallum smiled, "You''re right."


    Kallum got up from his chair. "It''s better for the man to be more forgiving, so since she''s not picking up my calls, I''ll visit her myself!"


    Calista froze for a while when she saw Kallum hade looking for her. She had rejected Kallum''s calls for thest two days and was surprised that he wasn''t angry at all.


    "Are you still daydreaming? The


    auction''s happening tonight, don''t you want to go?" Kallum looked Calista up and down. He''d never- thought that this was how Calista looked like on a normal day at home, and thought she looked very cute.


    Calista then remembered it was the day of the auction, and quickly replied, "You wait here for a while, I''ll quickly change ande down."


    Kallum grabbed her hand and gently patted it.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve brought a stylist along, no hurry."


    The moment he finished speaking, a fairly shy looking man walked in and eximed the moment he saw Calista, "Oh my GOD! Mr. Kallum, your fianc¨¦e is gorgeous! I guarantee you''ll be the most fortunate man tonight!" Before Calista could say anything, the man pped his hands and arge group of people surrounded her and pushed along upstairs to her room, shocking all the servants in the house.


    Kallum nodded and was thest one to go up. When he reached her room, he found that her room was really tiny - there were only about a dozen people in her room, and there was already no space to stand. He was very displeased about it when Benedict returned home.


    When he heard Kallum was bringing Calista along to an auction, Benedict happily replied, "Oh is that so? Mr. Kallum, please take care of Callie then!"


    There were really no rumors flying around the past few days in Horington, and he assumed it was all thanks to Kallum, so he suddenly felt close to this future son-inw, and was very excited about this.


    But Kallum did not reciprocate this feeling. He looked around the house with a criticizing look on his face and asked coldly, "Are the Staffords so poor?"


    Benedict was taken aback by this and was deeply embarrassed.


    "The rooms for the Fairchild family servants are bigger than Ms. Stafford''s room, and also..."


    He pointed to some of the old furniture in the room and said, "Don''t these things belong in the rubbish dump?"


    Kallum was an arrogant man and


    did not like cating others. He wanted to try talking to Benedict


    nicely since he''d never had much et


    interaction with this future


    father-inw even after so many years. But after seeing Calista''s room, he decided against this.


    Calista felt very awkward after hearing this, but when she tried to move, the stylist pushed her back onto the chair, "My beautiful girl, don''t simply move. I''m drawing eyeliner on you now, and this is a very important step." Benedict saw that his daughter was stuck in her room and unable to answer, so he politely smiled and replied, "I have been too careless - her mother has always been the one looking after the home so..."


    "Her mother?" Kallum bent down to look at Benedict, his purplish ck eyes bing more and more displeased.


    "Calista''s mother died a long time ago. Are you saying there are ghosts in this house?"


    Calista let out a snort. She didn''t expect that there could be a time when she and Kallum were on the same page.


    When he thought about Yelena, Benedict started feeling more and more awkward. The police still had not concluded her case, but it certainly looked like Yelena was not fit to be a mother.


    "Yes...I will get someone to change themter."


    Kallum finally nodded. The Staffords


    were not rich enough to make a room that met his standards, but Calista wasn''t going to live here for long. Once he captured Calista''s heart, he would get her to live with him and eventually get married.


    When he thought about this happy future, Kallum''s tense face finally broke into a smile.


    "Alright then, I''ll get someone to bring some things overter. Calista is my fianc¨¦e, I hope your entire family remembers this well!"

 Chapter 59 Making Enemies

    His tone grew cold towards thest sentence, as he was obviously reminded of some people he didn''t like very much.


    His imposing demeanor made Benedict''s face break out in sweat and didn''t think about being closer to Kallum anymore. He ended up being more like a subordinate, saying yes to everything. After an hour, the stylist quietly eximed, "Perfect! You are my most beautiful art piece to date!"


    Kallum put down hisptop to look, and the entire house was lit up by her beauty.


    Calista was already very pretty even without makeup, but the smoky makeup masked any gentleness left on her and brought out her sharp and domineering side.


    Her fairplexion and bright red lips were very aggressive and looked icy even when she smiled. She was like a countess from centuries ago, with an icy and untouchable elegance.


    Kallum was very pleased with everything from the makeup to the gray shimmery evening gown, but she was missing a statement piece, and he was already all prepared.


    Emerald was too somber, and diamonds were too shy, so Kallum had chosen a ruby ne and put it on for her.


    Calista wasn''t used to Kallum wrapping his arms around her like this, and she could see that this ne must be extremely valuable. But she didn''t say anything since she figured she''d just return it to him once they got back from the auction.


    Kallum saw how the rubiesplimented her exquisite corbones, and suddenly didn''t feel like taking her out anymore. He felt that this immense beauty should be enjoyed by him alone.


    Kallum was an extremely domineering character - since he had already decided on Calista, he''d even thought about which school their children should attend already. He didn''t think Calista saying that she didn''t like him really meant anything, since feelings could be nurtured and she had such deep feelings for him before anyway.


    "It''s veryte, shouldn''t we get going?"


    Calista quickly spoke up because she realized Kallum kept staring at her lips and she felt like she could be in danger.


    Kallum thought it was a pity that he couldn''t touch her lips - the stylist had applied severalyers of lipstick, and if he touched them, this perfectionist stylist would surely go crazy and so he resisted the urge and hoarsely replied, "Ok, let''s go."


    The auction was to be held at a private manor, and Kallum yed with her fingers the entire way from the moment Calista got into the car, and even asked very seriously how she wanted him to chase after her.


    Calista had never been in a rtionship before, and she didn''t know that Kallum was so excited and had so much initiative once he was in love, so she kept a cold face on the whole time. But somehow Kallum wasn''t angered by this at all, and still tried to find conversation topics that he felt she would be interested in.


    When she alighted from the car, Calista breathed a sigh of relief, but she was surprised to hear a voice call out, "Isn''t this Ms. Stafford? I''m so happy we get to meet again."


    Calista narrowed her eyes immediately upon hearing this voice. Sterling was indeed here. Kallum stood in front of her and stared hard at Sterling before bringing Calista into the manor.


    Sterling''s face immediately changed. When he got to the manor, he thought that even though there was some unhappiness between the Fairchilds and him because of the Jonathan case, that was merely a small matter. If the two families agreed to work together, they would stand to gain so much! So he purposely chose to wait here for Kallum to try and mend their rtionship, but Kallum wasn''t having any of it.


    But then when he thought about Harvey''s instructions, he didn''t dare to anger him, and quickly caught up with Kallum.


    "Mr. Kallum seems to dislike me - is it because of Ms. Stafford? I can exin things, perhaps there''s a misunderstanding somewhere."


    Although that was what he said, Sterling didn''t think Kallum was keeping his distance because of Calista. To people like him, even a wife could be abandoned at any time for the sake of business, never mind a fianc¨¦e, so there must be some other reason for this. Calista nced at Kallum, because she thought that Kallum''s attitude toward Sterling was indeed offensive. Sterling was an important representative of the Wolford family, but Kallum obviously looked like he wanted to be enemies with him instead. Seeing that Kallum continued to ignore him, Sterling stood in front of him and blocked his way. He started showing some anger on his face, and his voice grew a little aggressive. "Mr. Kallum, did you not hear me talking to you?"


    Kallum finally raised an eyebrow. "You have no right to talk to me."


    Sterling chortled in anger. "Do you mean to say the Wolford family isn''t good enough?"


    Kallum arrogantly lifted his head. "No, what I mean to say is that you''re merely the Wolford family''s dog, and I don''t talk to dogs."


    Sterling''s face immediately darkened in anger, and Calista could even hear the chattering of his bones as he clenched his fists.


    Everyone around them who was about to enter the auction hall together quickly made their escape elsewhere when they heard Kallum''s words. They didn''t want to be coteral damage should the two of them decide to fight each other, since nothing good woulde out of offending either the Wolfords or the Fairchilds.


    Sterling tried his best to maintain hisposure. He had always been respected and feared all his life, and this was the first time he had been humiliated so badly.


    He took in a deep breath, "....I am the heir to the Wolford family..."


    "You''re only a foster son," Kallum cut


    him off and coldly analyzed the situation for him, ¡°If Harvey has a child, then you will have to give this position up. So you''re not an heir, but merely a stand in because he has no choice, and so it doesn''t actually matter whether you exist or not since anybody could be a stand in."


    "Kallum! Are you trying to make enemies with the entire Wolford family?!"


    Sterling couldn''t stand it anymore. He had heard all about how Kallum was rude and prudish, but he''d never expected him to be this arrogant!


    Kallum snorted, and his beautiful and bright almond shaped eyes shone even brighter than fire.


    "This is the first time I''ve heard of a dog being able to speak on behalf of its owner."


    Kallum then proceeded to just walk past Sterling towards the auction hall. The intense tension of the moment made everyone watching immediately start murmuring to one another. They thought that Sterling might suddenly lose his temper and punch Kallum! So everyone just stopped to let Kallum go first.


    It was so scary - did the two families have some unsettled feud with one another? Nobody had ever heard of this.


    Calista couldn''t help but ask as well, "Do you have a bone to pick with the Wolfords?"


    She nced over at Sterling who was behind them with a nasty look on his face, and said disapprovingly, "Even if you do, you shouldn''t be so obvious about it. The Fairchilds are a powerful family, but the WolfordsContent ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    are a vengeful bunch with no`


    morals. As the old saying goes, it is


    better to offend a gentleman than to offend a petty man."


    Kallum looked at her strangely.


    "You are the one who has a bone to pick with him, no?"


    Calista froze.


    Heughed and pulled Calista into his arms and continued speaking as if this was expected of him, "You have a feud to settle with him, so that means I have a feud to settle with him too! Don''t worry, you don''t have to fear a family like the Wolfords." Calista was still in shock, so Kallum smiled broadly and raised an eyebrow as he asked, "So, are you thinking about how good I am? Do you feel like you like me all over again?"


    Kallum''s thinking was very simple.


    After what happened with Jonathan, he found out that the Wolfords had some connection to Yelena and Quincy, so if he guessed correctly, Calista was eventually going against the entire Wolford family at some point in time, because the Wolfords generally operated by being the first to attack.


    So he hadn''t said anything wrong - since the Wolford family would be Calista''s enemies, and her enemies were his enemies. Since they were enemies, then why should he give them any leeway? Or hide his intentions?

 Chapter 60 A Kiss For One Billion

    Kallum''s honest attitude frustrated Calista. What was this about her enemies were his enemies - if this happened in her previous life, she would have been so happy to hear this that she might have gone mad, but after everything she went through, she didn''t care for


    romance anymore, especially if the other party was Kallum.


    There was no need to mention the deal they had now. Kallum was so determined to marry her, so if she tried to exin again about how she wanted to be the Fairchilds'' goddaughter instead, he would stick even closer to her.


    So Calista sighed in her heart and decided that she had to keep her distance after today.


    Kallum was disappointed that Calista didn''t look the least moved by his words, but then he quickly got over it by telling himself that he must have treated her too badly in the past, and so he had to treat her twice as well before he could touch her heart!


    The two of them immediately became the focus the moment they stepped into the auction hall. The people who were already in the hall did not witness the situation earlier, so when they saw that Kallum had arrived, everyone moved forward to wee him. But the men''s'' gazes were immediately attracted to Calista, as if she had this maic force. She looked gentle and elegant, but also sharp and mysterious, and her face was cold and well defined - for men, a species that wanted to conquer over all, Calista''s charm was fatal! Kallum hated how they were all looking at her, so his face became serious and he proceeded to simply ignore them all and brought Calista directly to his seat.


    Most people were already used to Kallum ignoring everyone, but they all wanted to know who this woman next to him was ...Kallum never brought ady with him, so now they knew it was because his standards were extremely high.


    Eventually all the guests started to settle down in their seats, and everyone heard about what happened with Kallum at the entrance. When they heard that Kallum was in a bad mood, they quietened down but continued to whisper among themselves. The host of the auction realized this as well, but he didn''t want to offend Kallum either, and he could only do his best to try to make everyone excited!


    There were many other valuable things on auction as well besides that piece ofnd, and Kallum didn''t care about what others thought. He held Calista''s hand tightly in his and said very seriously, "Tell me if you fancy anything, I''ll give it to you." Calista started feeling very ufortable when she saw Kallum being so passionate.


    Sterling was not seated far off from Kallum. There was a murderous glint in his eyes, like a poisonous snake waiting to attack its prey, and everyone became even quieter and uneasy.


    The host wiped the sweat off his face and then forced a smile as he started the auction. "Every guest tonight is important to us, and you have provided many invaluable items for tonight''s auction! Without further ado, let''s see the first item on auction!" The red curtain behind the host opened and revealed a gorgeous pair of boy girl twins.


    "This is a beautiful pair of twins. They have eaten only in food since they were young and bathed only in milk, so their skin is smooth and supple, their bodies very flexible, and can fulfil any wish of their owner..."


    The male host finished his introduction andughed suggestively before proceeding, "Bidding starts at 10 million! Each bid increment cannot be lower than one million! Bidding starts NOW!"


    Calista knew immediately that this item was provided by Sterling! The Wolfords had always loved dabbling in such illegal and hical sort of things, and unfortunately there was constantly a market for it.


    This young man and young woman on stage looked like a pair of beautiful sex ves, but in actuality, they were very highly skilled spies! Sterling liked to use this method to infiltrate his rivals'' estates.


    But a lot of people had no idea that this was the actual intent, so many of them leapt up and started bidding, pushing the price higher and higher. The final bid closed at 50 million, and they were bought by a wealthy man in his fifties, while the rest who lost the bid shook their heads with regret.


    Sterling was even more disappointed - he had specially prepared this pair for Kallum, because it was hard to find someone with such features and good figure! Furthermore, they were twins and so were even rarer! But sadly they were sold to some old man instead. He nced coldly at Calista and suddenly smiled. But of course, he thought to himself. With someone as fine as Calista in his possession, it was little wonder Kallum wasn''t attracted to this pair of twins. He had not done sufficient research beforeing here, so he had miscalcted this move.


    But now that the crowd was more heated up, it became easier to proceed with the rest of the auction.


    Kallum unhappily yed with Calista''s hand while seated on the VIP sofa. He purposely came very close to her and whispered amorously in her ear, "These gems are not bad, do you like them?"


    At first he had nned to buy anything that Calista took a second nce at, but who knew, every item, no matter how beautiful, just looked like rocks to Calista, and he was at a loss.


    Calista''s expression became even colder, and she immediately straightened her back when she saw Kallum lean over. "No thanks, I don''t like them."


    Kallum closed his eyes slightly as he took in the cold fragrance from her body, his heart pounding faster and he couldn''t help but go closer.


    "Rx, today you''re my femalepanion. We have a n for tonight''s auction - do you want others to see that we''re not getting along?"


    Calista wanted to keep her distance, but she hesitated when she heard what he said, and he pulled her into his arms.


    Kallum pulled an arm around her waist and felt very satisfied in his heart. He had never thought that such a small gesture of intimacy with Calista could make him this happy. Finally, that piece ofnd was up for bidding next.


    Calista''s eyes focused, and before the host could finish introducing the item, she told Kallum, "I want this piece ofnd."


    Her voice was not too loud but not too soft, so the people seated around them could hear.


    "My dad says he wants to build a hospital, but all the other pieces ofnd he looked at were too small. You said you like me right? I want this piece ofnd!"


    Sterling had not expected Calista to want this piece ofnd. He was interested in this piece initially, but he had been very busy with that


    stupid Yelena''s case the pastet


    few


    days and didn''t have time to check out thend carefully, and so he was hesitant to buy thend now, since it wasn''t a small sum of money either.


    But since Calista wanted it, Kallum was definitely going to buy it. So why not push the price high and make it hard for Kallum to make a profit off thend?


    When Kallum saw her proudly turning to him and telling him what she wanted, his heart melted and he had an urge to give her the whole world; but more than that he also wanted to stroke her soft hair but didn''t dare to. After introducing thend, the host continued, "The seller is in a hurry to sell, so bidding will start at 800 million, each bid increment must not be below 10 million. Bidding starts NOW!"


    Many people were interested in this


    I.ne


    little piece ofnd that was now a small golf course. The location wasn''t too inessible, but it was far enough from the hustle and bustle of the city, and there was even ake further down from the estate. So if thisnd was developed into luxury bungalows, the developer would surely make a lot of money!


    Plenty of people had coveted thatnd a long time ago, and many criticized the owner for being a lousy businessman, turning such primend into a simple golf course, and he must be making losses now.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista saw that many people were


    bidding and the bid price had risen to a billion dors, and couldn''t help on Kallum''s clothes and said


    but tug


    anxiously, "Put out a bid quickly


    otherwise someone else is going to get this piece ofnd!"


    Kallum''s lips curled slightly. "The bidding''s just started, no hurry."


    But in order to put on a show for Sterling, Calista frowned hard. "I don''t care, quickly put in your bid. What if there''s a chance to get it cheaper?"


    Kallum saw how anxious she looked and gave a sly smile as he pointed at his own lips.


    "You want me to bid? Sure, kiss me first."

 Chapter 61 About To Puke Blood Soon

    Calista''s expression immediately changed. If her back weren''t facing Sterling, he might have seen through her now.


    Kallum saw that she hesitated, so he boldly went close to her.


    "Why? Not willing to?"


    The guests around them noticed them and felt that Calista was ying too hard to get now. Thisnd would probably go for close to 2 billion or more, and now Mr. Kallum only wanted a kiss - how was that too much to ask for? Indeed, not just anyone could afford a beauty - they were unable to afford such an expensive kiss.


    Calista was in a difficult position, so she emphasized her point again while pinching the hand that was holding hers very hard, "Then you make sure you take thatnd down!"


    After that she inched forward with some hesitation, but finally locked her lips down on Kallum''s.


    There was definitely some drug in her kiss! Even the lightest touch made Kallum''s soul quiver.


    Kallum closed his eyes and held her tightly in his arms, pressing her head down and deepening the kiss before she could get away.


    Their actions caused the entire auction hall to go silent immediately. Nobody recognized who Calista was, but they knew that this was the first time Kallum went so near a woman, and in public no less - this was definitely an important woman to him. Calista''s face started turning red, because everyone was looking at them and even the host stopped talking. Even if the skin on her face was very thick, it would have been burnt through from the staring by now.


    Stuck in his embrace, she discreetly red at Kallum and pinched his hand even harder than before, but Kallum continued as if he didn''t see or feel anything, and reluctantly let her go after he had finished tasting all the parts of her mouth.


    He wasn''t satisfied yet, and even though he normally just did as he pleased, he also understood that there was a time for everything.


    But then when he saw that Calista''s face was very red, and she was using her sparkling eyes to stare holes into his face, he felt his lower body tighten.


    D*mn it, this girl was turning him on!


    Kallum crossed his legs to hide his body''s reaction, but he kept a straight face and said, "Ok, since you''ve been so obedient, I''ll buy it for you and let you off for now. But tonight...you''ve got to take a bit more initiative, ok?" These not so subtle words made the guests around them cough, while Calista looked down and tried to suppress the increasingly uncontroble anger she felt and maintain a cold expression.


    The host breathed a sigh of relief. Judging from the way Kallum behaved, he thought that he might lose control of himself and then...leave the room halfway or something. He was d he controlled himself well.


    He pulled himself together and continued to take bids, but kept his eyes on Kallum. Since Mr. Kallum was prepared to use this piece ofnd to make this youngdy happy, then thisnd would likely go to Mr. Kallum. As expected, Kallum raised his paddle and calmly said, "1.5 billion."


    Everyone gasped immediately. The Fairchilds were rich, but he didn''t have to wring them dry, right? Was it really ok to raise the bid by 500 million?


    There were very few who were bold enough to fight with Kallum, so most others put down their paddles, with the exception of a middle aged man who clenched his teeth and shouted, "1.55 billion!"


    Calista nced at who it was and realized that was the man who got thend in her previous life and made terrible losses.


    It was fairly normal to bury garbage in the ground, but the garbage that was buried in thisnd carried a lot of chemicals that were difficult to dpose, so the owner just held on to thend and never dug it up, and only dared to put it up for sale after ten years. Kallum took this chance to stroke Calista''s face, and then put up his paddle. "2 billion."


    Quintus stood in shock behind Kallum and stared - he didn''t seem the type who would do rash things for a pretty girl!


    Even at 2 billion, thend was still profitable, but the profits were very low.


    Every bid went up by 500 million! Everyone else was shocked by this disy of wealth, and not even the host had imagined Kallum to throw money away like this. So those people who had put down their paddles earlier were not just afraid of the Fairchilds, but they literally didn''t have the money to afford fighting with him.


    Kallum''s attitude was as if 2 billion wasn''t even money.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    The middle aged man wanted to continue bidding, but after hearing Kallum''s bid, he decided against it and put his paddle down.


    Sterling smiled coldly. It was his turn now.


    He raised his paddle and shouted, "2.2 billion."


    Kallum looked as though he didn''t expect anybody to continue bidding. He nced sideways and saw it was Sterling, and immediately frowned in disgust and shouted, "2.5 billion."


    Sterling was greatly angered by that look of disdain!


    He narrowed his eyes and continued, "2.8 billion!"


    An old man standing behind Sterling looked at him disapprovingly. 2.8 billion for thisnd would not yield any profit.


    But Sterling was not worried about


    this. He had found out from Yelena that Benedict really wanted to buy arge piece ofnd to build a hospital and nursing home. So since Kattum had agreed to buy it for Calista, he wouldn''t give up. And as expected, Kallum continued to coolly raise the price, "3 billion."


    Everyone watching had a strange look on their faces. Kallum had said those few words as if they meant nothing, but they were like huge weightsnding on their ears! They weren''t the ones bidding but they started getting excited. There was nothing more exciting than watching people fight with huge amounts of money!


    Sterling thought for a while, and then increased his bid!


    "3.5 billion!"


    The seller started to break out in a cold sweat. He was already more than happy to sell thisnd at 2 billion, but he didn''t expect thest two bidders standing to be people of such high standing, and the price had already gone way over his expectations.


    But then he steadied himself - once the money got to him, he would disappear immediately! He had no wife nor children, and his parents were dead too. So even if thisnd went to Sterling, he wasn''t afraid of Sterling being able to find him.


    "4 billion."


    Kallum raised his bid by a lot each time, and Quintus could feel sweat dripping from his face. He wanted to say something but Kallum stopped him before he could. 4 billion was definitely a loss, but what did it matter?


    He looked at Calista and patted her hand, as if to tell her not to worry, thend was definitely ours - this expression made all thedies in the room so jealous of Calista!


    Sterling was used to being careful, but he was on fire today and so he ignored his assistant''s calls to stop and added another 300 million!


    ""4.3 billion!"


    An uproar went through the crowd - this was definitely the closing bid!


    Kallum only smiled coldly. "4.5 billion!"


    4.5 billion!


    Nobody dared to even breathe as they stared at Sterling. They felt that at this rate, even if the Wolfords wanted to go up against Kallum, they''d better calcte the cost first. Sterling was now thinking again, and his assistant firmly said, "Stop increasing the bid! Thisnd is not worth it!"


    When he saw that Sterling hesitated at these words, Kallum snorted and said to Calista, "That''s why I say, a dog is a dog. He needs to be leashed even when he''s out for a walk."


    The implied meaning of those words sent blood rushing to Sterling''s head! He immediately pushed aside the assistant sent by Harvey and yelled, "4.8 billion!"


    Everyone felt their heart was about to stop when they heard this figure.


    Kallum frowned and was about to bid higher when Calista suddenly hugged him.


    "Don''t bid anymore, it''s too expensive, I can''t ept this!"


    Many people, including Sterling, thought Kallum would say that this wasn''t a lot of money to him, and as long as she wanted it, he would buy it for her. After all, many people saw how Kallum adored Calista from the moment they stepped in. Besides, the Fairchilds could afford this amount.


    But unexpectedly, Kallum hesitated for a moment, and then agreed, "I''ll stop then. I don''t think thend is worth this money either." Sterling nearly spat a mouthful of blood out!

 Chapter 62 Auctioning Off The Engagement To Kallum

    The host took a while to understand what was happening, but finally he trembled as he picked up the gavel, and without calling out for final bids, he lightly hit the gavel and called out, "Sold!"


    Sterling still hadn''t realized he had fallen into a trap, or the fact that he could very well lose his inheritance because of this.


    His assistant pulled a ck face and said, "I will report everything that happened to the boss in full detail!"


    Sterling was still angry, so he glowered angrily at the assistant and whispered clearly to him, "What''s the hurry? So above ground will be luxury bungalows overlooking theke, but underground will be gambling dens! We won''t lose anything!"


    The assistant still didn''t look good after he heard this. "But thisnd is only worth around 2 billion, and you''ve bought it at twice the price - the boss will be very disappointed in you!"


    A very real murderous glint shed in Sterling''s eyes as he thought to himself, I can''t have this guy around me! Besides, I''m the Wolford family''s heir, why should I be subject to such control everywhere I go?


    Kallum was stillughing and talking to Calista as if he hadn''t seen what was happening on this side, but the people seated near to Sterling were as tense as a bowstring. All the guests couldn''t wait to hide themselves from this murderous air, in case they unintentionally became a new target of the Wolfords.


    The host already got ready to migrate to another country.


    Only Kallum sat there like nothing had happened, as if the one who had pushed Sterling into a trap wasn''t him - he was the real aristocrat who didn''t have to be bothered by the Wolfords.


    The woman next to him was definitely no ordinary human being either - under such frightening tension, she was able to smile. The smile on this icy beauty was indeed breathtaking, but this was not the time to appreciate beauty.


    Sterling really wanted to puke blood now. How was he so rash earlier? 4.8 billion for a piece ofnd - this was the worst decision he had ever made in his life!


    Under this terribly tense atmosphere, all the remaining items on auction were sold quickly at low prices, and some sellers even took back their items and decided not to auction them anymore.


    After the auction was done, the host started thest segment of the night.


    "All the items for auction have been sold, but since our auction firm is a close partner with Unity Trust, would everyone here be willing to contribute a little for charity?"


    Usually there would be many people immediately showing their support, particrly some younger female guests who wanted to gain reputation for phnthropy - but now it was dead silent, and nobody dared to volunteer at this time.


    The host really just wanted to quickly end the event and he had said these words just to fulfil his duties for the night, since he had already guessed that nobody would want to continue this activity either.


    And as expected, nobody said anything for a long time.


    The host breathed a sigh of relief in his heart, and he was about to say the closing speech when suddenly Sterling mockingly spoke up, "What about Ms. Stafford? You''re not contributing to charity as Mr. Kallum''s fianc¨¦e?" Ms. Stafford? Fianc¨¦e? Calista Stafford?! The person next to Mr. Kallum was Calista?!


    Everyone''s impression of Calista was still stuck at that stammering and hesitant person with a thick fringe covering half her face, so when they heard Sterling''s words, they all gasped.


    All the women present were even more jealous now! Calista was actually so pretty! Was that why Mr. Kallum treated her differently now?


    The host looked at Calista for help - he didn''t want to continue but Sterling was obviously forcing it to happen, and his back was already drenched with sweat.


    Sterlingughed coldly and continued, "Or the whole thing about Mr. Kallum liking Ms. Stafford is not real after all? Ms. Stafford can''t evene up with one thing to auction off?" Calista looked at Kallum with some confusion as she realized that most of the women present had an additional small box in hand, so obviously this was amon practice.


    Kallum cast a quick nce at her ne as a hint - he had already prepared this beforehand and wasn''t going to let Sterling trip them up!


    Calista looked down at the ne on herself and started to undo it.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Sterling mockingly said, "Ms. Stafford, don''t tell me you''re going to put up something that''s not worth much money?"


    Calista paused for a while, but Kallum whispered, "Don''t worry."


    Her ne was no ordinary ruby ne. This ne was a present from the western world to the royal pce back in the fifteenth century!


    Its historical value was higher than its actual value, but there were plenty of professional appraisers on hand to certify its value, so she wouldn''t be embarrassed at all. Besides, auctioning such an item would increase her reputation. The host''s voice quivered as he said, "It''s alright, it''s the thought that counts, the value doesn''t really matter, Ms. Stafford, please."


    He stretched out his hand and the


    spotlight fell on Calista. Kallum


    smiled as he watched her get up and walk towards the stage, her silver §Ö grey long dress catching the light and shimmering like a cloud of smoke, like a scene from the Milky Way, elegant yet intricate in beauty.


    When she got to the front, the host impatiently waited for her to remove her ne. All he could think of was how he wanted to quickly finish this event and get out of this scary ce! He could feel that the


    Wolfords already had their eye on him!


    Calista looked up and saw the crowd staring at her. Besides her, there was probably no other woman who dared toe up and auction their item off.


    Kallum was still seatedfortably on his maroon sofa, a ss of red wine in hand and smiling in support.


    His look was definitely above average, and his actions revealed his upper ss upbringing, as if he were a prince who walked out of a pce, as if he was born with a natural aura.


    He said he liked her.


    Calista could feel how much effort he had put into her, but these feelings didn''t make sense. In her previous life, he hated her so much and even got engaged to Mirabelle, so did his feelings change so easily?


    When she thought about how


    Mirabelle was returning soon and


    thought some more about how she had liked Kallum for more than twenty years with no reciprocation, she had no more energy left to get further entangled in this rtionship and wanted to get as far away from it as possible.


    After much thought, instead of the ne, she removed the emerald thumb ring from her hand and put it on the auction table.


    In the silence of the auction hall, there was the sound of a ss smashing to pieces. Kallum had smashed the ss of red wine in his hands and the wine was all over him!


    Kallum pushed away Quintus who had rushed over to bandage his hands. He couldn''t believe what Calista had done! He red at her - how dare she?!


    The host did not know anything about this ring and was about to call an appraiser over, but before he said anything, ady from the crowd asked loudly, "Is that the token from the first mistress of the Fairchild family?!" That token?


    There was an uproar in the hall, especially among the women! So it was that thumb ring, the one that could only be worn by the mistress of the Fairchild family?!


    Calista did not look at Kallum and nodded, "Yes it is."


    Kallum felt like it was his turn to puke blood. Weren''t they still on good terms earlier? Why was Calista taking out their token of engagement now?


    This was the first time in his life that he felt sheer disappointment and pain. He opened his mouth but couldn''t bear to say anything to hurt her.


    All the women couldn''t care less about Sterling anymore, and started to ask excitedly, "So does that mean that if I get this ring, I''ll be engaged to Mr. Kallum?!"


    All of them were deliriously staring at Calista now!


    Calista hesitated for a moment and somebody else asked another question.


    "How much is this token going for? I''m getting it even if it bankrupts me!"

 Chapter 63 Boiling Anger

    Kallum red straight at Calista, his upbringing not allowing him to scream and shout in public. He wanted to see if Calista was really bold enough to auction this ring off!


    Calista was already mentally prepared for the excitement from the crowd. She wasn''t worried that this ring wouldnd in anybody else''s hands - she just wanted to tell Kallum very clearly that she didn''t want to marry him at all, not a single bit! So when she saw Kallum''s angry expression, she suddenly smiled.


    "Starting from 10 million!"


    She had the guts!!


    Before Kallum could said anything, a woman immediately called out, "1 billion!"


    What an exciting auction it was! The bid price went from 10 million to 1 billion immediately!


    But of course, a billion was nothing. Immediately someone else shouted, "2 billion!" and another "3 billion!" and the bids couldn''t stop going up, the crowd''s passion shooting through the roof.


    Kallum couldn''t stand it anymore and suddenly he pushed the small table in front of him to the floor.


    "Let''s see who the hell still dares to bid!!"


    The loud sound of the table hitting the floor and the cutlery smashing to pieces silenced the hall.


    Kallum gave up keeping up his aristocratic image and started shouting in public. He even loosened his tie and started walking towards the stage withrge strides.


    Kallum was really furious now! Everyone who was excited just moments earlier immediately became quiet. And when they heard Kallum''s angry voice through chattering teeth, the crowd suddenly felt that this princely man was about to beat someone up! Kallum grew angrier with each step he took. He stared so hard at Calista, and his teeth were about to be chattered to pieces.


    "Where did you find the guts to do this?!"


    He kicked the speaker that got in his way off the stage with one kick, his anger boiling over uncontrobly.


    "What the hell do you take me for?!"


    The entire crowd watched in fear and didn''t make any sound. But Calista looked surprised that Kallum had made his way all the way up here.


    She had thought that Kallum would quietly tolerate, be the one to win the bid on the ring, and then never have anything to do with her again.


    She did guess that he would be angry since she was embarrassing him in front of so many people, but she wasn''t sure what to do now that he had actuallye right up to her and questioned her.


    What happened to his pride? And gentlemanliness? Was heing up to get stepped on by her some more?


    Calista hadn''t said a word but Kallum had reached out and pulled her right in front of his face. The host had made a run for it even before Kallum had reached the stage. After all, nobody had the guts to face Kallum''s fury head on, besides Calista who didn''t seem afraid to die! "Say it! What are you trying to do?"This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum drew closer to her and Calista felt like she was being set on fire from his fury. But she felt that this was not fair at all. What right did he have to be angry? When he hated her, she could only suffer quietly. Then when he liked her, she could only ept? He had a tight grip on her clothes, but Calista looked up and said defiantly, "Can''t you see?


    Her words were amplified by the speakers and nearly drove everyone mad.


    There were some who were happy to see how defiant Calista was, because Kallum might just give the ring to someone else in a fit of anger! Besides, after being embarrassed so badly by this woman, it would only be normal of him to choose a new fianc¨¦e right in front of her.


    After hearing Calista''s calm response, Kallum was so angry that he couldn''t say anything.


    But when he saw Calista turn her head to tell the host to continue the auction, Kallum yelled, "I''ll see who dares to continue!"


    He red straight at the host and articted his words clearly, "To hell with charity auctions and tradition! If you dare to auction off this token, I''ll make sure both your auction firm and Unity Trust close down!"


    The host nearly knelt down when he was red at by Kallum''s bloodshot eyes.


    He quickly waved his hands and said, "We...we don''t ept this sort of item for auction..."


    "Why not?" Sterling had no idea why Calista was out to embarrass Kallum, but since there was a chance to embarrass him, why not make it worse?


    "Since you''ve brought it out, then it can be auctioned! I''ll put up 5 billion!"


    Kallumughed coldly as he stared at him, "Sorry but you''re too ugly for me to marry!"


    A gasp ran through the whole crowd. Kallum was well known to be very direct with his words, but it was also Sterling''s own fault for speaking up at such a time. Kallum couldn''t be bothered about the expression on Sterling''s face now. He let go of Calista, then took the ring from the table and forcibly put it back on her finger. Calista''s entire body stiffened, her heart cold and bitter, and she was not touched at all.


    "Why do you do this? Even if you give it to me, I won''t marry you."


    Kallum pursed his thin lips together very tightly when he heard this.


    He looked at Calista, and then suddenly dered loudly in front of everybody, "That''s your business. I only want you!"


    With that, he pulled her into his arms and bit down hard on her lips!


    That''s right, he bit her! Calista was doing this tonight was definitely to step on his pride, and there was that one moment when he thought of just winning the bid on the ring and then forgetting about this womanpletely. But he didn''t want to admit defeat! He was not willing to! He...couldn''t...couldn''t bear to...


    Now that he liked her, what right did she have to just say she didn''t like him? Was she ying with him? If so, then he was going to insist on giving her what she didn''t want!


    Calista was angered by Kallum''s fierce kiss in front of so many people that her face had turned red, but she had no strength to push him away. Kallum kissed her so hard and so urgently, as if he was about to swallow her whole.


    Calista was prepared to fight back


    with everything she had, but then she suddenly noticed a deep pain in Kallum''s reddened eyes, and she realized that no matter how strong a front he had put up, her actions had indeed hurt him. He had ced the world at her feet and she had kicked everything aside in his face, and it must have hurt the arrogant Kallum very deeply.


    Seeing him like this, Calista eventually stopped struggling...


    She had been too rash ining up with this method to agitate him. But she didn''t have a choice either - Kallum kept closing up the distance between them and was controlling the rtionship remotely, making her feel extremely ufortable and pushing her to do something like this.


    The scene of the two of them kissing in each other''s embrace pierced the hearts of many women.


    If she was already willing to auction off the ring, then why didn''t she fight to the very end? Then at least they stood a chance!


    But it was an undeniable fact that all the women were jealous of Calista. Kallum was so furious earlier but did not hurt her at all. Instead he said that he only wanted her...what was this even! Who was Calista and how could she deserve this?! Sterling was deeply embarrassed by that one statement from Kallum. After tonight, he was surely theughingstock of the entire nation!


    Kallum, Calista! Good on both of you!


    When he saw that Calista had calmed down, Kallum breathed a sigh of relief, even though he knew his actions were not right either. He even thought to himself, if Calista didn''t act up, he would listen to anything she said.


    It was only after he had let her go,


    did Kallum suddenly realize what he had just done...but what was done was done, and Kallum was not one to regret his actions. Many people had said he was arrogant anyway, so adding new descriptions of him being temperamental and rude was no loss to him.


    So he pulled Calista back into his arms and dered coldly, "You guys can continue the auction by yourselves!"


    He randomly pulled a ring off one of his fingers and threw it on the auction table. "Emerald ring, from the Renaissance. This will be the item my fianc¨¦e is putting up for auction."


    After that, he dragged her out with him, his face still a little angry. Once they had left, everyone immediately breathed a sigh of relief.

 Chapter 64 Clash Between Ice And Fire

    Kallum''s mere presence was already very pressurizing for most, and when he got angry, he could practically ignite the air with his fury.


    But the women present were more disappointed than the men - that ring was meant for the mistress of the Fairchild family!


    Someone took a nce at Sterling and couldn''t help butugh.


    Kallum''s "You''re too ugly for me to marry" was definitely a ck mark in the history of the Wolfords - Sterling''s pride had suffered tremendously tonight.


    Calista was now being dragged away by Kallum at high speed, and she was ready to suffer the brunt of his anger.


    It didn''t matter to her since she was not afraid of the consequences when she decided to do this. She had already decided from the beginning of this new life that she was going to do as she pleased, so what was there to be afraid of?


    Quintus was following closely behind, afraid that Kallum would do something rash. Mr. Kallum was more highly skilled than all of them, so if he were to beat her up, Ms. Stafford would be in deep trouble. But then again, Mr. Kallum never hit women, so she should be alright....


    He had obviously worried too much - the moment they walked out of the hall, they were met with a pavement full of small pebbles. Kallum remembered Calista was wearing high heels and so he slowed his pace down for her.


    But he was still angry! Just that he slowed down didn''t mean he had forgiven her!


    Calista breathed a sigh of relief. If she had to continue at the earlier speed in her high heels on such terrain, she would definitely sprain her ankles.


    She had calmed down by this time.


    She had been too rash earlier, but if given another chance, she might have still chosen to do this.


    If it didn''t work the first time, then she would do it twice, or until Kallum stopped wanting to marry her.


    After getting into the car, Kallum kept a cold expression on and didn''t say anything. The air around him seemed to waver as if he was emitting high temperatures into the air, and was ready to catch fire anytime, making Quintus silent and fearful.


    He suddenly started feeling envious of his brothers in the other cars...they were allowed to protect Kallum from a distance, but as the main bodyguard, he had to remain close...


    Calista took a nce at Kallum and suddenly sighed.


    After she had started this new life, she had the most interaction with Kallum, but the feelings she had for him were the least.


    In her previous life, the love she had for him for more than twenty years had already dried up after she had to run for her life again and again and was eventually tortured to death, and now her soul was left with nothing but hate and some survival instinct - she wasn''t sure what made up the rest.


    Those people who were her enemies, she hated to the core! And earlier, she had hated Kallum like that too.


    But after Kallum had told her the truth behind why he had treated her poorly, she suddenly didn''t hate him anymore, but just felt that this whole thing was like a joke. She didn''t hate him but she didn''t love him either. She only wanted revenge and nothing else. Calista''s silence made Kallum even angrier! He was waiting to see when Calista would try to cate him. She had done something so awful but she didn''t apologize and she wasn''t going to say anything nice even? Wasn''t she afraid that he might ignore her forever? Or that if the Fairchilds didn''t protect her, Sterling would definitely get back at her?


    After waiting a while more, Kallum realized they were reaching the Stafford residence soon and he couldn''t help but steal a nce at Calista and found that there was a sadness in her cold eyes. His heart suddenly tightened and he forgot all the negative thoughts he had earlier and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Calista looked up immediately, and that sorrowful expression in her eyes that she hadn''t hid away in time made Kallum''s heart ache.


    He instinctively sat closer to her and after a moment of silence, he swallowed his pride and said, "I''m not angry, don''t worry. But don''t do this again, ok?"


    Quintus nearly spat blood as he drove. How did Mr. Kallum think Ms. Stafford was worried that he was angry with her?


    Kallum sighed at himself - why was he being so petty with a woman? Calista was his woman, and even though she had created quite the scene...he just had to go along with her.


    When he thought about it this way, he suddenly forgot all the humiliation he had suffered just a few moments ago. He held Calista''s hand and suddenly understood Calista''s feelings.


    "Do you find it very hard to ept my sudden change in attitude towards you after treating you so badly for so many years?"


    Calista looked at him very seriously this time and wanted to say something, but her red lips remained tightly pursed together.


    Kallum suddenly felt that she looked adorable and might be on the verge of breaking her cold wall down, so his purplish ck almond shaped eyes narrowed slightly into a smile. He bent down and gently kissed Calista''s cheek.


    "I''ve been too negligent."


    Calista''s heart was moved for a moment. Was Kallum actually apologizing?


    But it was toote.


    Calista closed her eyes and she suddenly felt a bitterness in her heart. How nice it would have been if she could get a kiss from him in her previous life, at a time when she loved him the most.


    "Nothing''s wrong. What happened


    tonight has nothing to do with you. I can''t ept you and that''s why I did something like this to state my stand clearly. If you continue to cling onto me, I can guarantee you that what happened tonight will happen again."


    Calista''s icy voice froze Kallum''s smile on his face, and immediately the anger in him started boiling again, making Quintus start sweating profusely again.


    Ms. Stafford! Quintus started praying to his ancestors for help. If only Ms. Stafford had kept quiet all the way! Why did she have to speak up now?! "GET OUT!!"


    Kallum suddenly roared these two words.


    Calista thought these words were meant for her, but Kallum was still holding on tightly to her hand and ring directly at Quintus.


    Quintus could feel the eyes on his back and he quickly stopped the car by the side and ran out of the car, not willing to stay one more moment in the car.


    All the other cars thought something had happened and quickly pulled over, but luckily Quintus managed to stop them in time, and shakily said, "No, don''t go over, Mr. Kallum has some private matters to settle..."


    The other bodyguards looked at each other knowingly, their minds obviously in the gutter. But it was also difficult for Quintus to just say that Kallum and Calista were actually quarrelling.


    The others weren''t present at the auction so they had no idea what Ms. Stafford did, so it was better for him not to say anything, so that Ms. Stafford''s image would not be affected. After being trapped in the car by Kallum, Calista started getting angry too. "Let go of me!"


    "No!" Kallum pulled her closer instead, ring at her fiercely.


    "What do you mean? Am I so hateful to you? That you''re going to find all means and ways to escape from me?!"


    Calista tried to escape his grip but


    d.ne


    realized she couldn''t, so she decided against struggling and smiled coldly as she said, "Your analysis is urate, so can you let go of now? Or is the great son of the Fairchild family going to cling on desperately to a woman?"


    If someone else had said such words to him, Kallum would have torn her to pieces. But when it came to Calista, even if he had lost all reason in anger, he would never touch even a hair on her head. "Calista! Do you still have a heart?!"


    Kallum clenched his teeth, his eyes shone unexpectedly bright in the darkness of the car interior.


    "You don''t want to see all the good things I''ve done for you, but you insist on remembering the ugly past?"Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    It would have been better if he didn''t mention the past. Now Calista was really angry.


    Her face immediately turned frosty


    as she coldly responded, "That''s right! I''m a petty woman who insists on remembering the ugly past! I remember how you constantly


    ignored me, and how you alward


    only listened to Mirabelle! I


    Lov


    remember how you hated this engagement! And I remember how you told me more than once! In disgust! To never appear in front of you again!"


    Every word that Calista said put the fire from Kallum out bit by bit. By the time she had finished speaking the fire had beenpletely put out and he was left with only guilt...had he said such things in the past?

 Chapter 65 Giving In One Step First Then Every Step

    The answer was obvious. Kallum was somebody who defended someone he loved all the way and drove someone he hated to death all the way. He was very extreme towards people he liked and disliked, and there was no in between.


    He hadn''t said anything, but Calista wasn''t done.


    She suddenly pushed Kallum back against the seat and knelt next to him, looking down at him.


    "What do you want out of provoking me again and again? My body? There''s nothing else right? 5 months ago that was your first time too right? You got drugged, then had rtions with someone you hate, so you must have avoided women like the gue! But after you suppressed yourself for too long, you started thinking of me again? Or somewhere in your subconscious, you think I''m a toy that you can look for whenever you want?" Calistaughed coldly, and suddenly pulled up Kallum''s jaw to look at her.


    "You want it so badly? I''ll give it to you now, so stop talking about whether you like me or not, or whether we''re engaged or not, all these things irritate me!" Thest few words barely made it out between her clenched teeth.


    Calista had a crazy idea - she didn''t like Kallum, but he had a pretty good figure and a nice smell to him, so since he wanted some, she''ll give it to him! Anyway she had been poked and fingered without clothes on for research for the past three years and had lost all sense of shame long ago.


    Since she had taken the initiative, Kallum naturally wanted to fight back, but just when he was about to move, he heard Calista''s order, "Don''t move!"


    Her voice was cold and frustrated, making Kallum''s heart tighten. Kallum was afraid of nothing, but at this time he was afraid of making her angrier - what if she thought about more unhappy things from the past in a fit of anger?


    Calista was pleased with how things were going, so she bent down and boldly kissed Kallum on the lips, tracing every inch of him, aggressively proceeding with her attack.


    The good thing was that this car was very wide, or otherwise it would have been difficult for the 6''1 Kallum to lie down.


    Calista''s kiss started to heat Kallum up, and since was difficult to see in this small and dark space, his other senses were heightened as a result.


    But he didn''t dare to move. The moment he thought about how many awful things he had said to Calista in the past, he felt guilty. If Calista could let everything out like this and forget everything, that would be best.


    But just because he didn''t dare to fight back, it didn''t mean he wasn''t going to take advantage of the situation. He carefully put his arm around Calista''s waist and responded to her kiss. Normally Calista was too dull and quiet, so it wasn''t a bad thing if she chose to release her anger like this a few more times...


    He started to take things a little too far in his mind.


    After she had let out all this on him, Calista felt much better inside and so she coldly threw Kallum a nce, then suddenly wound down the car window and shouted at Quintus who was not standing too far off, "Come back and drive!"


    The rest were shocked, were they done already? But then Calista''s face was icy cold, as if she was not satisfied, and they suddenly felt as if they had discovered something they shouldn''t have...


    When Calista suddenly got up, Kallum felt a weight lifted off himself. Then he felt the cold breeze when she wound down the window, and his heart went down with the window, as if a piece had fallen off.


    He was disappointed that she had only kissed him for just a while...they could have gone further.


    But when he saw that Calista looked ready to kill, Kallum learnt to hold himself back for the first time, and thought it would be better if he saved the kissing for next time instead...


    Quintus cautiously ran back to the car when he heard Calista''s orders, and seeing that Kallum had not objected, he breathed a sigh of relief.


    As he had figured, Kallum was no match for Calista.


    After what Calista had done and said earlier, Kallum was already no longer angry and was even trying to regain her favor.


    Looks like Ms. Calista was the one he needed to respect the most! Quintus patted himself on the back for such an astute observation.


    The rest of the journey was very peaceful. Kallum sent Calista all the way to her doorstep, and he wanted to tell her that actually she had no reason to stay in the Stafford residence, plus he had now created a feud with the Wolfords. Sterling would not touch the other Staffords because of Yelena, but he might not let Calista off.


    It was safer to live with him.


    Kallum found a good excuse to cover up this intention, coughed and got ready to speak up.


    But Calista spoke first. "Thanks for sending me back." She then alighted from the car without hesitation.


    Kallum immediately grabbed her hand, looked at her cold expression and said what was on his mind directly, "Sterling is the sort that would definitely seek revenge, aren''t you afraid he''d do something to the Stafford family?


    Calista was very sure Sterling wouldn''t do anything to the Staffords now, so she wasn''t afraid at all.


    "No need to worry, he won''t touch this family."


    "And what about you?" Kallum''s lips trembled, the fear in his heart disyed clearly.


    Calista pulled her hand out slowly. "I''m not afraid of him."


    Then she turned and left, clearly with no regrets.


    Kallum on the other hand, felt deep defeat.


    Once Calista had walked out of sight, Kallum''s expression hardened immediately and he sent orders, "Get people to watch this ce, tell me the moment anything happens!"


    Quintus nodded, then heard Kallum


    clench his teeth as he said, "If it wasn''t for Sterling, Callie wouldn''t have had to go on stage to do that charity auction, then she wouldn''t have rashly done something like that! The Wolfords are a really irritating bunch of people!


    Quintus saw that Kallum was ming everything that happened on Sterling, and he silent lit a candle in his heart in memory of Kallum''sck of self-awareness.


    Kallum smiled coldly and continued, "Also, get someone to spread the word that the piece ofnd he bought has problems, and I want everybody to know about it by tomorrow! Help the seller of thend get out of the country safely, don''t let him get caught by Sterling." The good part about an auction was that there were many witnesses to the deal, and since the Wolfords were such arge family, Sterling couldn''t owe this amount of money to the seller.


    And since the seller was selling thend with an ulterior motive already, the moment he got the money he would definitely make a run for it.


    Since everyone would know that thend was problematic by the next day, even if Sterling found out and wanted to sell it off, it would be toote, because no idiot would buy it from him.


    Kallumughed cruelly.


    Quintus wiped the sweat off his face. This time they got the Wolfords real good! Besides continuing to use it as a golf course, there was nothing else they could do.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    But how much could they profit off a golf course? People who were really interested in ying golf would go to the famous courses instead, and he could foresee that Sterling was going puke all his blood out the next day.


    It was his fault to begin with anyway, by offending Calista of all people. He just didn''t know what the Wolfords had to do with Yelena, such that Sterling would go all out to protect her.


    Calista returned home to find that Yelena and Quincy had also returned.


    Benedict initially looked like death, but when he saw Calista enter the house, he stered a smile on his face."


    "Callie, you''re home at the right time! The truth is out - the mastermind behind Jonathan''s case is one of my business rivals! He''s in jail right now, so you don''t have to be afraid..." It went without saying that this was Sterling''s doing.


    Calista smiled coldly as she could


    see that even though her father was smiling as he consoled her, his expression was still doubtful, and he was obviously still suspicious of this matter. After all, Yelena had


    veli


    scrambled frantically and left-a lot of tracks behind, plus her father had seen what happened between Yelena and Jonathan, so even


    though there was an exnation, it still made him feel ufortable.


    Even if Yelena hade back to the house, she was no longer given the same treatment as before.


    Yelena saw that Calista hade back and she suppressed the indignation in her heart. Instead, she put on a guilty face and came close, "Callie... must have been so anxious that I lost all reason and used you falsely. I didn''t expect these people to be so evil, thinking of such a terrible n to break up our family!


    Callie, don''t be angry, Mum will make it up to you in the future..."

 Chapter 66 Giving Treatment With Great Fanfare

    Calista''s expression remained dark.


    If it wasn''t for Sterling, she would have crushed Yelena and Quincy with one blow. Her revenge n would have been sessful, and she could think about the futureter.


    But Sterling had to appear and used all sorts of underhand methods to cover up Quincy''s shame and found a scapegoat for Yelena. Now that they had gotten away unscathed and were now on guard against her, it would be harder for her to attack them now. But when she thought about it from another angle, if she could hit them once, she could hit them a second time. There was plenty of time anyway, so she could take...her...time!


    With this change in her thoughts, she calmly directed her words at Yelena, "Whether it was a false usation or a case of a thief calling out another thief, only Mrs. Stafford knows."


    Her calm words made the awkward family reunion even more awkward.


    "Also, stop cursing yourself. My mother has died for more than ten years now."


    Calista smiled creepily after saying these words and went upstairs without checking out Yelena''s face twist in anger.


    Benedict did not respond, so Yelena started whining, "Hubby... Look at her..."


    "Look at what?" Benedict threw her a nasty look, but on ount of Quincy, he lowered his volume and said, "Who asked you to bring Jonathan into this house? Callie hating you is a result of your own actions!"


    Benedict still wanted to say more, but Quincy quietly coughed and Benedict''s expression changed immediately, since the biggest victim of this entire matter was still Quincy. He didn''t really care what happened to Yelena, since he didn''t have much feelings for her in the first ce. Previously he was quite happy with the way she handled the family, but now he was extremely displeased with her and had no more good feelings towards her.


    But Quincy was his precious daughter, the one he had doted on since she was born, and she had even fallen ill from this incident, so he was ready to slice the mastermind to pieces!


    "Quincy, don''t worry...Daddy still loves you very much. Forget about what happened, nobody will spread any nonsense."


    Quincy found it strange that Benedict was so confident of this and thought Yelena might have said something to him, so she started crying piteously, "Daddy, I was so panicky at that time and I didn''t mean to malign Callie, but it looks like she''s going to ignore me." "No such thing!" Benedict saw that Quincy was no longer as hysterical as she was a few days back, and her maturity in a time like this only made his heart ache even more, so he quickly added on, "Daddy will make sure the person behind this pays for what he''s done! As for your sister, I will talk to her. Next time...just make sure you don''t get led astray by somebody!"


    That somebody was obviously Yelena.


    Yelena understood this implied meaning but didn''t dare to fight back, and her heart started bleeding from hate. Benedict was merely a useless chap and he dared to look down on her? Just you wait, Yelena thought to herself. She would make sure he got his just desserts! There was nothing new about the four of them holdingpletely different thoughts about each other. Calista managed to sleep peacefully after she had checked that the room really had no hidden cameras, but she had no intention to stop renting the other apartment, since it might still be of use to her.


    The next day, Horington was caught up in a whirlwind!


    So the piece ofnd that Sterling had bought at such a high price was actually filled with garbage underneath! And the garbage buried deep underground was no ordinary garbage, but the kind that had a lot of chemical deposits that had contaminated the entire piece ofnd. Since the contamination was so severe, it was very hard to clean up. But if nobody cleaned it up, the piece ofnd was never leaving the Wolfords'' hands.


    The Wolfords were a huge corporation, but precisely because it was huge, the cashflow moved very quickly, and if they couldn''t patch this 4.8 billion hole quickly, they would quickly go into a crisis.


    Sterling wanted to find the seller of thend, but he had already disappeared into thin air. The auction firm was also not liable for the condition of the items, since they were merely a third party. And because everyone knew about thend''s problems overnight, Sterling couldn''t even secretly sell thend - was he fated to continue running a golf course on this ursed piece ofnd?! Sterling''s assistant said ominously, "The boss is already aware of this matter and he is very angry now!"


    It was better if he hadn''t said anything. Sterling immediately pointed a gun at him.


    "Have you forgotten who the boss really is? You are just a dog."


    But the assistant did not fear Sterling at all. He was sent personally by Harvey to assist Sterling, so Sterling would not dare to touch him.


    "Humph! Sure, I''m the dog that belongs to the boss! Just you wait, the boss is surely going to take you out of his wi-"


    Before he could finish speaking, a bullet went through between his eyes, and he died with his eyes wide open.


    Other men quickly came to drag the dead body out in fear, while Sterling wasn''t bothered that he had just killed somebody, his expression remaining murderous. Kallum! Calista!


    Since they had the guts to set him up, he was going to make them pay!


    All was calm in the Stafford residence, and Calista continued to reject Kallum''s calls. Besides, Kallum wasn''t particrly free to keep looking for her all the time, and perhaps he would lose patience after some time. Calista was thinking as she spun the thumb ring round her thumb.


    Suddenly she heard some shouts of excitement from downstairs.


    It turned out that Quincy had been epted directly into university and she didn''t have to take the entrance exam.


    Calista smiled calmly. Whoever


    Yelena found to write for Quincy was


    not bad at all, since this person had helped Quincy to pass the National Medical Science Random Quiz and got a ce at Bayview University. It was little wonder that Quincy was so happy, because if she had taken the exam based on her own ability, she''d never have made it from the affiliated Bayview High School directly into Bayview University. Looks like they were going to be in the same school for a long time ahead...


    But just getting a ce in the school didn''t really mean anything.


    Competition was extremely stiff in Bayview University, and Quincy couldn''t possibly smoke her way across all the time. Without ster results or outstanding research, Quincy wouldn''t even be able to find a good supervisor for her thesis, so she was going to wait and watch Quincy make a fool of herself.


    Just when Calista was feeling confident and settled in, there was a knock on the door.


    The moment the servant opened the door, Quintus walked in.


    He wasted no time and said, "Mr. Kallum is outside, he wants to see Ms. Stafford!"


    Quincy saw that this man was wearing the uniform unique to the Fairchild family bodyguards, and her eyes lit up.


    "Mr. Kallum wants to see me?!"


    Quintus'' face went into a spasm. Was this thick skinned woman her stepsister?


    "...He wants to see Ms. Calista!"


    Calista starteding down the stairs and asked, "What does he want?"


    Quintus looked up and felt thedying down the stairs shone like the stars, elegant and gentle, yet with a sharp and aggressive side - Mr. Kallum had great taste!


    Quintus bowed respectfully to her, then looked up straight at her and said, "Ms. Stafford, Mr. Kallum says the weather today is great, and he wants to take you to one of his vineyards in the countryside to taste some of his favorite wines."


    That was what Quintus'' voice said,Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    but Calista saw that his lips didn''t match any of it. What he was really saying was that Kallum said since she had agreed to give treatment at the Sinirs, and considering that that family was dangerous, he would apany her there today.


    Calista wanted to reject at first, but she felt that she couldn''t ignore this invitation. Just when she was about to respond, Quincy hurriedly cut in, "Wine tasting? Callie, can I go?"

 Chapter 67 You Have To Pay The Price For Trying To Network

    Calista hadn''t replied, but Quintus was shocked by how thick-skinned her younger sister was. He frowned and said unhappily, "Mr. Kallum did not invite anyone else."


    Quincy looked pitifully at Benedict, and seeing that his younger daughter wanted to go, he put in a word for her quickly, "Callie, bring Quincy along. She''s still recovering from her shock, and it''ll be good for her to get some fresh air."


    He did not know that Quincy had any other motives, and thought she just wanted to go out for a walk. In the past, whenever Wanda invited Calista over and Quincy wanted to tag along, Calista never rejected her, so he thought Calista wouldn''t reject taking Quincy this time either, Calistaughed and looked meaningfully at Quincy and asked, "I''m going to be all lovey dovey with your brother-inw, why do you want to follow us?"


    Her pointed words made the tension in the house very strange, but before Quincy could exin herself, Calistaughed in an oddly evil manner.


    "You used to be like that too - whenever Mrs. Fairchild asked me over to the Fairchilds'', you would insist on tagging along. What is your motive? My fianc¨¦ doesn''t have any brothers, you know."


    "Callie!" Benedict was taken aback by this reaction. He threw a nce at Quintus who was busy trying to mind his own business, and continued unhappily, "Why are you saying such things! Quincy just wants to apany you."


    Yelena chipped in too, "That''s right, Callie! You don''t really like to talk much, so if Quincy goes she could help to fill up the awkward silence, otherwise other people might think we have no manners..."


    Fill up the awkward silence? Didn''t Quincy steal the limelight every time, and only finally shut up when Calista was pushed into a corner?


    Quincy quickly nodded her head along with her parents, but she looked guilty because the real reason why she wanted to go was that she liked Kallum and that was also why she wanted to ruin Calista''s reputation so desperately - if he called off the engagement to Calista, she could be next in line!


    Even if she wasn''t, at least she would be rid of one rival.


    Calista walked down thest step and shook her head as she smiled at Quincy. "And what if I don''t want you to go?"


    Quincy immediately looked at Benedict to set this straight for her.


    Calista put up her hand as if to stop everything. "Dad, what would people think if my younger sister constantly tagged along when I have a date with my fianc¨¦? Even if Quincy doesn''t have any ill intentions, how would others see this? That you want him to choose from either of your daughters? Or that both of us might as well share one husband?"


    Her bold and direct words made Benedict''s face turnpletely red. He suddenly realized that it was indeed inappropriate for Quincy to go along with them, but at the same time Calista had been too direct with him as well and had embarrassed him. But since Quintus was around, he did not say anything to Calista. Instead he turned to Quincy and said, "... Your sister is right. How about this? Since you want to go out, Mummy and I will take you outter, so don''t disturb your sister, ok?"


    This was the first time Quincy was rejected, and she was afraid that Calista wouldn''t bring her along anymore. So she gathered up the anger in her heart and burst out, "Why doesn''t she want me around? Does she want to do something in secret?" She suddenly had a look of epiphany and pretended to be all shy as she continued, "Oh that''s right, I nearly forgot! My sister has already done it with Mr. Kallum!"


    This matter made Benedict''s face darken as well, and he started to change his mind again.


    Callie was only eighteen...even though they were engaged, but...it was better not to do anything like that.


    He was about to respond when a loud voice rang out, "You''ve guessed it right, I miss Callie very much, but we''re engaged to marry, do you have any further objections?"


    Kallum had waited for a long time outside but nobody came out, so he decided to go in and check, only to overhear such a ridiculous conversation. He had noticed from a long time ago that Quincy liked to tag along to the Fairchilds'', and that she had feelings for him, but he never bothered about her. But now this little tag along buddy had issues with his woman?


    Kallum''s presence was very dominating, so from the moment he walked in, Benedict and Yelena didn''t dare to say anymore. Quincy was initially shocked, then she put on a pitiful face and looked at Kallum, "Mr. Kallum, I...I...don''t have any ill intentions..." Kallum didn''t even look at her, but walked over to Calista and pulled her waist towards himself.


    The overbearing sun rays immediately turned into a gentle drizzle. "Why didn''t you pick up my calls? Are you still angry with me? Hmm?"


    This show of intimacy as if there was nobody else watching shocked everyone in the house, with the exception of Quintus. Since when was Mr. Kallum so chummy with Ms. Calista!


    Didn''t....didn''t he dislike Ms. Calista a lot?


    Kallum''s attitude towards her back at the dinner party was so harsh, but just after a few weeks, he had suddenly turned 180 degrees?


    Quincy couldn''t lie to herself any longer and her entire body was shaking from anger.


    What witchcraft did Calista use during this period of time! Even Kallum was


    Calista on the other hand, was trying to resist Kallum. She wasn''t in the mood to put up a show with Kallum. But when she realized that he was still as aggressive as ever, she suddenly felt helpless against it.


    "Let


    go, didn''t you say you were


    bringing me for some wine tasting?"


    Kallum smiled broadly when he thought about how he was going to spend the entire day alone with Calista and wasn''t angry even when she tried to push him away. He replied brightly, "Let''s go!"


    Quincy couldn''t believe how Kallum


    had so much love and adoration in


    his eyes. When she saw that Calista remained expressionless, she became even more disgusted. Why was Calista so pretentious? She must be feeling gleeful now!


    "So Mr. Kallum and my sister are so close now! That''s lovely, I wonder if Mirabelle knows? She''ll be very happy to know about this!"


    The name ''Mirabelle'' instantly destroyed the elegant smile on Kallum''s face. He nervously looked at Calista, then spun around and shot a cold stare at Quincy.


    This woman was very irritating!


    "Who is Mirabelle to me? Why do I have to report to her on my rtionship with Callie?"


    Previously he had been very nice to Mirabelle because he had treated her as his benefactor, but he was just being kind to her and didn''t have any fe for her or any intention


    to go further than friends.


    Calista suddenlyughed coldly, "The whole of Horington knows who Mirabelle is to you, Mr. Kallum - why do you make things difficult for others?"


    Mirabelle had made sure the entire city knew that Kallum disliked Calista but was nice to Mirabelle, so there were people who spected that Kallum would annul the engagement and marry Mirabelle. When she thought about it now, it was quite hrious.


    She pushed Kallum aside and walked out with big strides. But there was a little murderous air about her and Kallum''s heart fell.


    Oh no, Callie is angry!!


    It''s all that stupid Quincy''s fault! Why did she mention Mirabelle of all people!


    Kallum red at Quincy coldly, thinking of countless ways to get back at her, but he finally quickly ran out after Calista, afraid she might escape.


    After spending more time with Calista, the memories of that incident about who rescued him from the water when he was young slowly faded from Kallum''s mind.


    If it was really Callie, then he really owed her for mistreating her for so many years, and he had to be extra good to her now!


    But even if Calista lied to him, he...didn''t want to pursue it further, because he had begun to really like this girl, and this...this was the first time he wanted to be with a woman, that was all. Quincy''s face twisted with anger as she saw Kallum run after Calista.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    But then suddenly a thought crossed her mind and she smiled coldly. She sent out a text to Mirabelle - she didn''t believe that neither she nor Mirabelle could win against Calista!

 Chapter 68 Keep Your Pride And Lose The Girl

    Kallum saw that Calista had gotten into one of the cars, but that was one of the bodyguard cars and not his. The bodyguards all exchanged nces, unsure of why Calista didn''t want to sit with Kallum. Kallum chased everyone else out of the car and squeezed in himself.


    Calista''s face turned nasty when she saw him squeeze into the car. She had no idea what he was trying to do! Why couldn''t he just leave her alone?


    "Are you angry?"


    Kallum took her hand and tilted his head, his purplish ck almond shaped eyes sending out as many signals as it could, and even the small mole at the corner of his left eye sparkled.


    Calista took her hand back expressionlessly. "No I''m not."


    Kallum suddenly broke into a smile.


    His presence dominated his surroundings, and even when he was happy, it was contagious. His passion shone as bright as a diamond.


    ""You''re jealous!" Kallum concluded.


    Calista smiled coldly. What was there for her to be jealous about? In thest moments of her previous life, Quincy said that Kallum was engaged to Mirabelle, and so even though they had not married yet, that was definitely next on the cards, so why should she be jealous?


    She stared back coldly at Kallum, her sparkling eyes seemingly able to look into another person''s heart.


    "Are you done talking? I still have matters to attend to. If we''re not moving off, I''ll call a cab."


    "Don''t be in such a hurry, we''re leaving now."


    Kallum was in a good mood. With a wave of his hand, all the people standing outside quickly got back into position.


    Kallum went out with at least four cars following him, and even though they were now in a bodyguard''s car, it was still veryfortable. Kallum opened the small fridge in the car and saw that there was milk inside, so he passed a carton to her, thinking she must be thirsty after talking so much.


    Calista threw him a nce. "I don''t drink this."


    Kallum became a little awkward. All these years, others had pandered to his needs and tastes, and he had never needed to bother about others'', much less remember what other people liked.


    He felt deeply frustrated by this and suddenly felt that he was too poor at chasing Calista!


    He put the milk back and said in a very serious face, "Give me two days, no just one day, and I''ll be sure of what you like and dislike."


    Calista just felt that he was just being crazy again and ignored him.


    After calcting the time, Calista felt that it was a suitable day to treat Jarrett''s younger brother. She had treated him once in her previous life, so she would be better this time round. It was just that Jarrett had treated her so badly in her previous life, and she felt that she would be doing herself a disservice if she didn''t get back at him this time.


    When Kallum saw that Calista was ignoring him again, he thought for a while before speaking, "Actually who saved me when I was young doesn''t really matter anymore." Calista''s expression froze.


    When he saw she had some reaction, Kallum quickly continued in a serious voice, "It was wrong of me to treat you the way I did, but after spending time with you recently, I''ve really fallen for you. So who was telling the truth and who wasn''t back then isn''t important anymore."


    Calista looked hard at him. "Who was telling the truth and who wasn''t? So do you think Mirabelle lied to you or I lied to you?"


    Kallum didn''t expect Calista to be bothered by this matter, and he was stumped for a moment. Actually he had believed Calista, but there was no evidence since it had been too long since the incident happened, and he didn''t know how to answer her. If he said he believed her, would Calista think that his opinion was easily swayed?


    But his slowness to react was enough to make Calista misunderstand him, and she suddenly felt very annoyed. She turned her face away and refused to talk anymore.


    Kallum saw that Calista seemed angry again, then he realized what he had done. But perhaps because Calista was always cold and emotionless towards him, when he saw that she was angry, he became even happier.


    "So you''re just jealous!" he quickly responded, his tone very certain.


    Calista coldly replied, "I am not!"


    Kallum was very sure of this and smiled widely, "You know what? I''m so happy that you''re angry because it means you care about me, so stop saying you don''t!"


    Calista was so annoyed by this, so she grabbed him by the cor and pulled him near her face.


    The driver in front got a shock. Ms. Calista looked like she was going to beat up Mr. Kallum, but should he protect Mr. Kallum?


    Kallum noticed this and pressed a button. A screen came up the front and the back, cutting off noise as well.


    He raised both his hands in surrender, but he was still smiling gleefully.


    "Alright, now nobody can see anything and you can bully me any way you want. So don''t be angry anymore, ok?"


    He paused for a while, then said clearly, "There''s nothing between Mirabelle and me."


    Calista snorted and put her frosty face near to his, looking sharply at him.


    "I''m not interested in whether there''s anything between you and her! If you say any more useless things like that, then let me out of this car!"


    Kallum narrowed his eyes, then suddenlyughed and looked up at her.


    "Look at you, not polite with me at all. Actually you believe that I''ve really fallen for you right? So you dare to treat me like this because you know that I won''t hurt you." He came even closer without Calista pulling on him.


    He stopped smiling, and his beautiful shiny eyes looked at her seriously.


    "I really, really like you, and I don''t like beating around the bush. When I say I like you, I really do. In the past wasn''t nice to you, and many other things happened. You can be angry, you can hate me, but you have to give me a chance."


    A look of determination shed in his eyes.


    "And since I''ve chosen you, you shall be mine!"Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    The more Calista listened, the harder she clenched her fist and cracked all her knuckles in the process, but she didn''t strike him.


    "You''re so sure? I am someone who


    will definitely take revenge on my enemies! Since you didn''t like me for more than a decade, then there''s no need tike me now. Besides, even


    after another decade, fifty years, or even till death! I won''t like you aga-..."


    Before she could finish talking, Kallum jammed his mouth against hers. Calista immediately tried to bite him but Kallum managed to dodge her attack in time, and he said with some regret, "As I thought, you''re cuter when you don''t talk." A needle immediately appeared in Calista''s hands, her eyes cold and deadly, ready to attack him anytime.


    Kallum raised an eyebrow.


    "If you dare to move, I''ll bring the screen back down and everyone will witness how intensely I kiss you!" "You...you''re shameless!"


    Kallum wasn''t angry at all. "How else am I going to get a wife?"


    With that he kissed Calista again. His logic was very simple. If he liked someone, he wanted to be close to her, stuck to her, and always wanted her in his embrace.


    Calista couldn''t get out of his grip and decided to stop struggling. Anyway she had lost all sense of shame a long time ago, and she didn''t believe Kallum was really going to have her in the car right there and then!


    Kallum had no such intentions - his eyes were bloodshot but he managed to control himself, and pulled himself aside when he was losing control.


    Calista woodenly wiped her swollen lips, then turned away from him.


    They had reached the Sinirs'', and Calista immediately threw Kallum to the back of her mind.


    Kallum on the other hand, unnaturally crossed his legs, his whole body heated up as he thought whether he should just quickly get married overseas and be over and done with it? He was getting a bit carried away now!


    In apletely different city,


    Mirabelle was on a nationwide tour and her face had turned very nasty She had only left Horington for three months and it had changedpletely? No way! She was going back earlier than scheduled! What was the use of being famous? She wanted to be the Fairchild family''s daughter-inw!


    Calista...was only a punching bag, and she wanted to change her life?!

 Chapter 69 If This Plan Does Not Work Then Try Another

    After alighting from the car, Calista could finally breathe a sigh of relief. Kallum''s passion burned bright like a fire, and she felt like she was going to get burnt if she spent any longer with him.


    Jarrett was as polite as he could be, since he had already decided not to go after Calista after thest time they parted ways unhappily. She had someone else in her heart and was even engaged to that someone else, so...what was he still clinging onto? Calista was equally cold to him. "Where''s the patient?" she asked directly.


    Jarrett, with his spectacles, smiled coldly and distantly.


    "In the back yard. Ms. Stafford, Mr. Kallum, this way please."


    Calista nodded and took the first step in.


    She was not very satisfied with Jarrett at this stage - she had asked him for help with Jonathan, but Jarrett had not tried his best. The Sinirs were not as powerful as the Wolfords, but weren''t too far off, and Jarrett had just told her that there was nothing else he could do. If she had cured his brother before the incident, would he have done a better job?


    But it was better this way. This way she didn''t owe him anything, so she didn''t have to think too hard before doing anything to him.


    Amidst the numerous nts, a clean and elf-like young man was painting on the easel. He was very engrossed in painting and didn''t even know people hade to see him.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    The scene in front of Calista had an unreal sense of beauty.


    "He is Ambrose Sinir?" Kallum asked.


    Jarrett nodded his head bitterly. His name, Ambrose, meant immortal, and one could see what the Sinirs wanted so much for their child.


    Calista pursed her lips and said hoarsely, "Please leave first, other people are a disturbance to me."


    Jarrett hesitated, but Kallum had full faith in Calista, so he said to Jarrett, "Didn''t you have some questions about the contract that time? Let''s go elsewhere to discuss."


    His attitude was very arrogant, and he controlled the situation everywhere he went, his words making it difficult for anyone to say otherwise. Besides, Kallum hade today to emphasize to Jarrett that Calista was someone he protected.


    Jarrett nodded, and even though he was still worried, he smiled and walked off with Kallum.


    Calista started walking over to the young man.


    Suddenly someone blocked her way. Calista looked at the person who blocked her and her pupils narrowed instantly.


    "Ms. Stafford, if you have any questions, you can ask me. Mr. Ambrose is not in good health, please don''t go close to him if it is not necessary."


    The man who blocked her had dark skin, his eyes as wicked and sharp as a wolf''s. But Calista remembered very clearly that in her previous life, this was the man who said that he had orders from Jarrett to capture her at the airport and passed her to Quincy. And it was also this man who listened to Quincy, snatched away her data microchip and then incapacitated her precious right hand!


    Why was he here? Calista smiled, her smile carrying some viciousness. "Do you know Quincy?"


    Her sudden question made Carl Wilson freeze, and his hesitation answered Calista''s question.


    She continued to ask curiously, "How do you know my younger sister? I heard her mention you before."


    Carl narrowed his eyes and asked suspiciously, "Quincy mentioned me to you?"


    Quincy...


    There was a cold air that suddenly emanated from Calista, causing Carl to stiffen up. His reaction confused himself - he had no idea why he felt so threatened.


    Calista did not look at him anymore. She was afraid that if she looked at him any longer, she would break his hand one inch at a time! Just like what he did to her in her previous life.


    If it wasn''t for him, Quincy would not


    have been able to smear her reputation and she was left helpless, unable to prove herself. Even after she had trained her left hand to §Ö perform acupuncture after five years, nobody believed her, and some people even said that she had tried to steal Quincy''s research and she was the liar.


    She suppressed the hatred in her, pushed Carl aside and started walking towards Ambrose. Carl dared not move since Calista had such a fierce aura, and suddenly he felt that this woman was no ordinary woman, and might even get in the way of his ns. When he heard footsteps, the young man engrossed in painting looked up, and his clear amber eyes faltered.


    "Who are you?"


    "I''m the person who hase to cure you."


    Beforeing to see Ambrose, she had a few terrifying ideas, but once she saw him, she changed her mind immediately.


    Ambrose''s eyes fell immediately upon hearing her words, but he managed a smile as he said, "Thank you for your concern, but...nobody can cure me."


    Calista put a hand on his wrist and calmly smiled as she said, "Before this nobody could cure you because you hadn''t met me yet."


    Her calm attitude somehow convinced Ambrose even without any proof, and he kept staring at her without blinking.


    Upon seeing this, Carl quickly took the chance to give Quincy a call.


    There was once he got hurt and was picked up by Quincy who happened to be passing by. She didn''t just dress his wounds, but also spent the whole night with him. Carl couldn''t stop thinking about this youngdy and so he would contact her now and then, and treated her like a free toy.


    Quincy knew he worked for Jarrett, and reciprocated his feelings, so in this way he became one of Quincy''s secret lovers.


    When Quincy heard that Calista and Kallum hadn''t gone to some vineyard but had gone to the Sinirs to treat that invalid younger brother, she was furious.


    Her heart was full of jealousy - Mr. Kallum was so busy, but for Calista, he took out an entire day of his time to apany her to the Sinirs. D*mn it! How did Calista attract the attention of Mr. Kallum?


    In between her jealousy and fury, she immediately thought of an evil n.


    "Tell me, if Calista ends up killing Ambrose instead, will Jarrett take revenge against the Staffords?"


    Carl had guessed what Quincy


    meant to say and heughed coldly, "No, Calista was brought by Kallum, so she represents the Fairchilds. Even if Jarrett wants to attack the Staffords, I''m around to protect you, so I won''t let anybody hurt you. The worst would be to just kill off Calista so that Jarrett isn''t angry anymore."


    Quincy was happy to hear these words. She smiled wickedly and said, "Then what are you waiting for? That wonderful sister of mine practices traditional medicine, and while I know nothing about medicinal herbs, who would know if you add a little more or a little less of the herbs? Right?" Carl smiled too. "Quincy is so clever."


    Nobody knew that Carl had actually switched camps to Jarrett''s eldest uncle. Jarrett''s first priority was Ambrose, and this had be an opportunity to severely cause damage to Jarrett! Then when Jarrett started fighting with the Fairchilds, they would surely be the ones to benefit!


    It was too bad about silly little Quincy - if Calista did anything harmful to Ambrose, Jarrett was definitely going after the Staffords. But she was just stupid, still delicious anyway, even better than those girls in the club with loads more experience.


    He told himself to seize this opportunity to me everything on Calista, and he was sure Kallum would not leave Calista to defend herself either.


    Calista was now taking Ambrose''s


    pulse. She had an idea of what was


    wrong with him already, but she


    wanted to s see if there was any change in his condition. He was very weak and sickly since the day he was born, so the doctors didn''t think he would live past twenty years old with such a naturally poor constitution.


    She was the only one who could make him well again.

 Chapter 70 Medicine Meant To Kill

    For most children with such poor constitution, they could get better after years of training and practice of martial arts, but Ambrose was so weak that his arteries weren''tpletely developed, and his internal organs were a mess as a result. The fact that he could even live


    till today was because Jarrett had paid a lot of money to sustain him.


    But to Calista, this was a simple illness to treat.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    The energy inside of her could be called Bnced Energy, and ording to the ancient medicinal books, Ambrose wascking Bnced Energy, which made it easy for diseases to attack him. The biggest effect Calista''s acupuncture technique had was to increase one''s health and drive away diseases, so Ambrose''s condition was perfect for such treatment.


    As long as she performed an Energy Gathering Needle technique on his arteries regrly and supplemented it with some medicine, after half a year, his arteries would grow strong and healthy, his internal organs would regain their full operating potential, and his entire body would be stronger overall naturally.


    Ambrose was a very sensitive person, so when he noticed that Calista''s expression did not change while taking his pulse, he had only two conclusions: one was that she didn''t know what to do at all, or two, she knew exactly what to do. Could it be the second scenario?


    When Ambrose thought about that, his face blushed a little. This girl looked his age, how could she be so highly skilled? He thought that he had better not pressure her too much.


    So after Calista had taken his pulse, Ambrose spoke up first. "Are you the doctor my brother hired?"


    Calista was reminded of Jarrett''s irritating face and she nodded, "You can say so."


    Ambrose read Calista''s curt reply to mean that she was forced toe here by his brother, and looked at her sympathetically. In the past, his brother had also forced several others to treat him, but they were all older men. Was his brother so desperate that he started to simply find just anybody to try now?


    So he consoled her, "Don''t worry, even if you can''t cure me, I won''t let my brother bully you."


    He said in a very serious tone, "My brother listens the most to me!"


    "Oh?" Calista looked at him as if he was a harmless little rabbit and asked him teasingly, "Why does your brother listen so much to you?"


    Ambrose hardly saw anyone outside of his little circle, so he wasn''t guarded at all. Plus he didn''t feel any dislike or distrust of Calista, so he opened up easily to her.


    "Because Jarrett said that I''m the most important family member to him!"


    He was smiling as he said this, a face that was proud of his brother, and there was no pain or illness on his face, only gratefulness and sincerity towards life, as well asplete trust in his elder brother.


    How did such a lovable child have such an irritating older brother?


    When he saw Calista remain silent, Ambrose started again, "Were you also forced toe here by my brother? Don''t get frightened by Jarrett, actually he is a good person..."


    Calista had no idea anyone could describe Jarrett as a good person. Well of course,pared to his wicked and vicious grandfather, he was a good person. Ambrose saw that she didn''t believe him, so he started getting upset.


    "It''s true! When we were very young, our eldest uncle chased us out and we were homeless. Mother was ill, and given the circumstances, she told Jarrett to abandon me, but he never did.


    He skipped school to work during the day, then he went to carry goods from the jetty at night. If not for him, I''d be dead by now. He''s the best brother in the world!"


    Calista never knew that Jarrett had such a past. But then again, when she thought harder, she remembered that his family did have some internal conflict after Jarrett''s father passed away. At that time Jarrett was only around fourteen? Then Ambrose would have only been about three or four.


    She felt that she could see a thin and pale young boy working the jetty at night. Ambrose''s constitution was so poor probably because he didn''t get a chance to rest and heal back then, and so it had be worse.


    "Oh, sounds like Jarrett is indeed a good brother." But not necessarily a good person.


    Ambrose''s mood improved tremendously when he heard Calista agree with him. His eyes smiled like a cute rabbit, and looked like he was easy to bully.


    Calista was a little moved by this


    and suddenly reached out to pat his head as she asked, "Then where did you get the scar on your chest?" She had seen this scar in her previous life when she had performed acupuncture on him. But when she had asked, Jarrett red at her very coldly for very long.


    "How did you know there''s a scar on my chest?" Ambrose asked in confusion. Then almost immediately he said, "My brother told you?"


    He bent his head and touched his chest and only spoke after a long while.


    "When we were young there was a bad guy who tried to attack my brother. I was a bit too anxious, so I blocked the attack."


    Calista thought to herself, perhaps this was the real reason why Jarrett was so protective of Ambrose.


    A cold glint shed through her eyes. So Ambrose was basically everything to Jarrett! So if anything happened to this boy, Jarrett would feel the pain more than anything else and would definitely be able to understand her hopelessness back then...


    Ambrose could sense a lot of emotions overwhelming Calista, so he suddenly looked up and stared at her. "What''s wrong? You seem very upset." Upset? Calista smiled. She wasn''t upset.


    She hadn''t said anything, but Ambrose frowned and said seriously, "Don''t be too hard on yourself. You''re obviously feeling very hurt, why do you force yourself to smile?"


    Calista froze and looked down at Ambrose''s handsome face. He had a pair of very clean and clear eyes, and the brightness from his eyes looked like it could drive away all darkness, and she was lost in his eyes.


    Ambrose let out another lightugh, "If you''re still sad, tell me! I''ll tell Jarrett to help you, there''s nothing he can''t do!"


    Calista couldn''t help but stroke his soft hair and asked him softly, "What about you? Why do you want to help me?" This was a difficult question for this young man who had seen very little of the world, and he frowned.


    "...I just don''t want to see you unhappy."


    He paused for a while before pointing at his chest. "When you''re unhappy, somehow I feel unhappy too."


    These simple words made Calista tremble slightly. She stiffly took her hand back, as if she had been scalded.


    "I will make you better. Your illness is nothing difficult to me."


    Ambrose didn''t really believe her, but didn''t say anything to put Calista down, and only smiled as he said, "Ok! No matter what you do, I''ll go along with it."


    Calista''s mood rxed, and suddenly there were four silver needles in her hand.


    "It''ll be a little painfulter, you just need to endure it."


    Ambrose obedientlyy t on the bed, then watched as Calista expertly inserted four needles into him.


    If one looked closely, you would


    have noticed that Calista did not use


    her fingers to insert the needles, byt used her energy to do so. The four needles used up all the energy inside of Calista - it was a very physically demanding technique indeed!


    Ambrose''s expression was originally very calm, since he had seen and gone through all sorts of treatment by now. But once Calista''s needles entered his body, he couldn''t help but let out a gasp.


    The moment he let out that gasp, more than ten bodyguards in ck immediately appeared in the garden, ready to attack anytime, and ruined the sweet and peaceful atmosphere earlier.


    "Ms. Stafford, what have you done to Mr. Ambrose?!" Carl was the first one toe running out, his expression difficult to read.

 Chapter 71 Revenge

    Calista hid the weakness of her body and smiled coldly.


    "Nothing, I just saw that his strength is scattered, and I''m afraid he might not be able to take the strong medicine I''m about to prescribe, so I helped to gather his strength together first." Ambrose endured the pain he was now feeling and spoke in shock, "It''s true! I feel much stronger now!"


    On top of that, he could feel a heat in his chest, as if someone had injected life into him. He had never felt more energetic before.


    Ambrose looked at Calista with bright eyes full of respect and worship!


    "You''re amazing!"


    Calista did her best to hide her faltering body and patted his shoulder. "Don''t worry, I said I''ll heal you, so I''ll keep my promise."N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    A glint shed in Carl''s eyes when he heard that Calista was going to prescribe some strong medicine.


    They were all well aware of Ambrose''s illness - he was born with a poor constitution and it wasn''t well taken care of. So unless he changed all his internal organs out, there was no way he would get better.


    Calista had made a bold promise, and now she even dared to prescribe medication! And strong medicine at that! She was going to kill Ambrose for sure now.


    Did she think she was invincible just because she knew some acupuncture? She would be left crying in no time!


    Calista pretended not to have seen the look in Carl''s eyes. She told Ambrose not to move, then took a pen and paper and quickly wrote down some herbs, with instructions for Carl to bring the herbs to a boil within half an hour on high heat.


    Carl looked the paper over and purposely said, "Ms. Stafford, you were brought by Mr. Kallum and I shouldn''t suspect you, but these are some strong herbs you''ve written down, I''m not sure if Mr. Ambrose can take it..."


    Calista knew what he wanted to say, so she lifted her exquisite little chin slightly and smiled coldly as she said, "I''ll take responsibility if anything goes wrong! Go and get the medicine now!"


    That was exactly what Carl wanted to hear from her!


    Carl and the other dozen bodyguards heard her, and quickly went to get the herbs stated on the paper. The Sinir residence had plenty of medicine and herbs, so they quickly got the concoction together. Besides boiling the herbs, he showed the prescription to a doctor under him.


    "Take a look at this prescription. If Ambrose drinks this, what will happen to him?"


    The doctor opened his eyes wide after reading the paper.


    "Which crazy doctor prescribed this? Ambrose will surely vomit blood and die from drinking this! His body is so weak, how can he take such strong medicine? This isn''t saving him at all, this is murder!" "Shh!"


    Carl dragged the doctor to one side and said nefariously, "What are you afraid of? This is prescribed by that Ms. Stafford! Before she came, Jarrett already said to let her use whatever method of treatment. In other words, even if her treatment causes his death, it has nothing to do with us, we were just listening to orders!"


    He looked around a bit, then hid in one corner of the pharmacy and whispered, "I''m going to ask you again. Once he drinks this, he''s definitely going to die right? Will there be an exception?"


    "No exceptions!" the doctor replied with confidence. "Ambrose''s situation is basically what the ancient medicinal books call blocked arteries - the stronger the medicine, the worse it is for him! This one bowl is definitely going to kill him! If you''re uncertain, you can change the proportion a little, but don''t change too much otherwise you''ll be found out." Carl was at ease when he heard this. "Alright! Once I bring Jarrett down, I''ll remember you!"


    After hearing this, the doctor was a bit doubtful, "If she really ends up killing Ambrose, do you think Mr. Kallum will really go up against Jarrett over a woman?"


    Carlughed coldly, "It''ll be best if they go against each other, but even if they don''t, I''d have made use of someone else to kill Ambrose, and this would be a terrible blow to Jarrett!"


    "That is true...then we will have a chance."


    The medicine was brought up quickly, and Ambrose was feeling very ufortable. His entire body was feeling very warm, and this heat had spread to his four limbs. Initially it was still bearable, but now he could feel a pain that seemed to seep from his bones. But he endured it and did not say a single word, because he could sense that Calista was different from all the doctors he had met previously.


    Carl brought the medicine to her and looked at the boy while smiling coldly, "Ms. Stafford, the herbs have been boiled."


    Calista took the bowl from him and smelled it, to find that Carl had indeed increased the proportion. She shook her head and snorted, and then told Ambrose to down the entire bowl.


    The medicine was ck, bitter and smelled terrible, but thankfully Ambrose was very obedient. He endured the pain his body was going through and finished the entire bowl, and then looked at Calista with a crumpled face from the bitterness. Calista coaxed him gently, "Go to sleep now, you''ll be better after a good sleep."


    Ambrose suddenly hadplete trust in Calista and he tugged at her sleeve and looked at her earnestly, "If I get better, can I go to school with you? I''ve...I''ve never gone to school..."


    The desire to live in his eyes was very moving indeed.


    Calista nodded immediately. "Sure."


    Ambrose smiled at her response and was about to reply when he spat out a mouthful of deep purple colored blood.


    All the bodyguards were shocked by this turn of events!


    Ambrose continued to vomit more blood, and then he fell back onto the chair and fainted.


    Everyone was shocked and somebody quickly ran to look for Jarrett. Meanwhile Calista looked coldly at Carl as if what happened had nothing to do with her, the look in her eyes sending chills down his spine. "You seem rather happy?"


    Her calm voice had no fear at all.


    Carl looked at Calista strangely. Ambrose had vomited so much blood and was on the brink of death, but this woman behaved as if she had nothing to do with that. He wasn''t sure if she was some special person who was born with no feeling


    of fear, or maybe she waspletely crazy?


    Calista had some suspicions earlier, but now she had confirmed them. If Carl was on Jarrett''s side, he wouldn''t have changed the proportion of the medicine. If he were adoyal subordinate, he


    wouldn''t have let her give


    §Ö


    the medicine after seeing that sort of prescription. The only possibility was that Carl was not loyal to


    Jarrett.


    Did that also mean that when Carl came to capture her in her previous life, it wasn''t Jarrett who went back on his word, but that Carl had listened to orders from someone else? Like Quincy, for example?


    After all, at that time, Quincy was already famous, and it wasn''t impossible that Carl wanted some benefits from Quincy.


    After listening to Ambrose describe his brother, Calista suddenly felt that even if Jarrett wasn''t really a good person, he wasn''t someone who would go back on his word.


    Had she hated the wrong person?


    "Ms. Stafford, you''re really not afraid to die huh? Don''t you know what Mr. Ambrose means to Mr. Jarrett?"


    All the bodyguards surrounded Calista, afraid that she might escape.


    The doctor was on his way, but Ambrose''s face was terrifyingly pale, and nobody knew if he would make it. Calista sat on the stool next to Ambrose and calmly pointed at Carl.


    "You,e over here."


    Carl had no idea why she asked for him, but he walked over anyway. He wanted to see what else she was up to!


    But the next thing he knew, Calista had dug out a gun from her clothes and took a shot at Carl''s leg! Carl let out a howl in pain, and more than ten guns were now pointed at Calista!

 Chapter 72 Time To Hurt Some People

    This gun was given to her by Kallum when she alighted from the car. The Sinirs'' was a stricter ce than the Wolfords'', but it still wasn''t a safe ce to be. And now it hade in handy.


    Carl held his leg and knelt on the floor, and stared back at Calista with eyes full of disbelief, hate, anger and a refusal to give in. He couldn''t wait to get back at her immediately. But now was not the right time - Calista had done Ambrose harm, and he couldn''t touch Calista


    because he wanted her to be the only one suffering the brunt of Jarrett''s wrath.


    So he clenched his teeth and shouted, "Calista! You''re amazing! Really unafraid to die! Just you wait! Mr. Jarrett will hack you to pieces!"


    Calista bent down to look at him, and Carl was within five yards from her. This was a good distance because it meant that it was easy to hit her target.


    She weighed the gun in her hands, and then rubbed the sore part of her hand while she smiled and said, "Do you know why I shot you?"


    Her calmness surprised all the bodyguards who had surrounded here. Calista was really not afraid to die!


    They dared not move because Calista was holding the gun by Ambrose''s side, and nobody wanted to be responsible if anything went wrong.


    But Calista was dead meat once Jarrett arrived!


    Calista still looked very calm, and she didn''t seem to notice all the nervous looks around her. She continued to smile as she said, "You increased the amount of herbs without my permission, so you''re definitely plotting something. Besides...you''re hoping to me the death of Ambrose on me, which means that you''re not loyal to Jarrett, and you''ve got big ns for yourself!"


    All the bodyguards exchanged nces. So Calista was trying to say that the medicine Carl brought in was problematic? She knew it had problems but still let Mr. Ambrose drink it? Or was Calista here to harm Mr. Ambrose?


    A variety of possible conspiracies floated between the bodyguards, and they started to try to separate Calista and Carl, ready to report this matter to Jarrett.


    Carl tried to hide the panic and fury in his heart as he said, "Don''t use me like that! What do you mean by saying I increased the amount? You mean you can tell by just sniffing it?"


    The doctor on duty hade running in with his emergency kit. Ambrose looked frighteningly pale and nobody dared to move him, so the doctor started checking him on the spot.


    The doctor secretly exchanged a quick nce with Carl, then quickly proceeded to check Ambrose. After a few minutes, he trembled and said, "He''s not going to make it... Mr. Ambrose... Mr. Ambrose is about to die!"


    Before he could exin himself, an angry roar was heard.


    "What the hell are you talking about?!"


    Everyone immediately shivered! Jarrett was here!


    Jarrett had seen Calista''s skill and trusted her, and he also trusted Kallum, so he was not worried.


    Thest time Calista asked him for help... he didn''t want to be enemies with the Wolfords so he didn''t help her as much as he could have, and also didn''t really want to have anything to do with Calista. But he didn''t expect something to happen the moment he let his guard down!


    When the doctor saw hime in, he looked as terrified as possible and said, "Mr. Jarrett! What is this doctor you hired? Mr. Ambrose is very weak and any medicine must be very carefully prescribed, but this woman here gave Mr. Ambrose extremely strong herbs. Mr. Ambrose''s body might not be able to take it, and his internal organs are probably damaged now - even the gods can''t save him! This woman is a murderer! She''s definitely done this on purpose!"


    The doctor insisted that Ambrose was on the brink of death, and his current situation was exactly as he had predicted - Ambrose would be weak from internal bleeding and eventually die.


    He suspected that Calista knew nothing about medicine, or otherwise how could she have prescribed medicine like that? And Jarrett even stupidly believed her!


    His younger brother was going to die?


    Jarrett was shocked by these words! He quickly ran over to Ambrose and narrowed his pupils the moment he saw his brother.


    "Ambrose?!"


    Ambrose had so much blood all over his body it was terrifying to look at. He was barely breathing, his lips all purple and looked like a corpse. Nobody dared to even touch him. "Don''t touch him."


    Calista suddenly spoke up and looked strangely at the doctor who was around fifty years old or so, and then said in a more serious voice, "He''s not dead yet, but if you touch him, then perhaps he might die!" Jarrett tensed up upon hearing Calista''s words. He locked his fierce stare onto Calista and lost control immediately.


    "You! Why do you want to harm him?"


    His brother was dying and it was all Calista''s fault, but she was still seated calmly on one side and didn''t look guilty at all.


    He couldn''t stand it anymore, and grabbed Calista by the cor.


    "Why did you kill him? Is it because I didn''t help you get back at the Wolfords, so you killed him in revenge? You evil woman!" Jarrett''s eyes werepletely bloodshot, and it was obvious that he had lost all ability to reason.


    Calista frowned. "I didn''t. Your doctor has a problem, he''s not..."


    Before she could finish, Jarrett pointed a gun at her head.


    "D*mn you! Since you dare to bring harm to Ambrose, then you shall die! Go to hell!"


    Calista didn''t expect Jarrett to go this crazy on her, and she opened her eyes wide when she realized he was pointing a gun at her.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    All she heard was the bang of Jarrett''s gun, but at the exact moment, someone else had also fired a shot.


    The next thing she knew, Calista was pulled into a strong embrace, and Kallum red furiously at Jarrett. "Jarrett! Are you nuts? How dare you try to kill my woman!"


    Some reason returned to Jarrett when he saw Kallum. What was he doing? He ought to be trying to save his brother now! Even if it took everything he had, he couldn''t stand and watch his brother die in front of him!


    When she saw that Jarrett didn''t


    hear what she said earlier and was going to touch Ambrose again, Calista used all her strength to push Jarrett away and stood in front of Ambrose. ¡°Calm down! Didn''t you say you trusted me? I said do not touch him!"


    Jarrett wanted tough when he got pushed to one side but he simply couldn''t find it in himself tough. His vicious eyes red at Calista through his sses, his eyes filled with hatred! "My greatest regret was to trust you and leave Ambrose in your hands!"


    He took in a deep breath, his voice full of intense hatred.


    "If Ambrose dies, I''m going to make sure your entire family dies with him!"


    Calista was angry now. She had finally decided to let Jarrett off, because she suspected she had hated him for nothing.


    But he only listened to that problematic doctor, and insisted on killing her without checking the facts!


    If Kallum hadn''t arrived in time


    earlier, she would have been killed


    by Jarrett by now. When she


    vel


    thought about that, the look in


    Calista''s eyes became very


    frightening, and she held the gun in


    her hand very tightly.


    "If he dies, you can kill my whole family to apany him! Calm down! If you try to kill me again, I guarantee you Ambrose will die!" Jarrett didn''t know whether to believe her or not. Right now Jarrett felt his heart bleeding just looking at his younger brother''s state. "Apany him? You make it sound like a good thing... You... You''re not even worth a single strand of his hair!"


    Jarrett was still unable to suppress his murderous anger, and the more he looked at Ambrose, the more he hated her! The entire yard was frozemover from the coldness of his heart, and even the sun wasgnable toraise the temperature.


    Kallum stepped forward and took Calista''s hand in his, stood right next to her and looked at Jarrett coldly.

 Chapter 73 Slowly Exposing Evil

    "Jarrett, you''re going to insist Callie is guilty just by the words of your doctor? If anything happens to Ambrose, the Fairchilds will bear all responsibility! Will you calm down now?"


    Kallum''s attitude made everyone take a deep breath, and the murderous aura everyone felt earlier dissipated after hearing Kallum''s words. Kallum must have so much trust in Calista to have said something like that. Jarrett took in a deep breath before finally stepping back.


    Seeing how Calista and Kallum held hands and looked back at him made him feel like killing something even more than ever, and he didn''t know why either.


    Carl saw that Kallum was willing to go to such lengths for Calista and was secretly delighted. So if Ambrose died, Jarrett and Kallum would definitely fight each other!


    But the Sinirs were not as powerful as the Fairchilds, and so the family would definitely decide to sacrifice Jarrett for the sake of keeping the peace with the Fairchilds. When that happened, he could kill off Jarrett and im the biggest credit!


    After thinking about that, he dragged his injured leg along and spoke loudly in front of Kallum, "Mr. Jarrett! You must decide on behalf of Mr. Ambrose! I suspected Calista and said that her prescription seemed strange, but she said she would bear all responsibility if anything should happen. I didn''t expect Mr. Ambrose to be like this after drinking just one bowl..."


    His words made Jarrett''s anger rise again. He kicked Carl and roared, "Since you thought there was a problem, why didn''t youe and ask me about it? Or ask the doctor first?!"


    Carl suppressed the hate in his heart after being kicked, and made his voice tremble as he said, "But Mr. Jarrett, you said that Ms. Stafford knew some special acupuncture techniques and told us not to suspect her, right? She said the medicine was needed very urgently, so... I didn''t ask the doctor."


    So! It was his own fault for trusting Calista too much!


    Jarrett''s head felt like it was about to burst.


    He weakly pulled at the doctor and asked seriously, "My brother, is he really..."


    The doctor had expected this result and even though he was in great panic, he managed to say as calmly as possible, "Mr. Ambrose... Mr. Ambrose won''t make it...he''s vomited so much blood, his organs are damaged too. It''s not just me who can''t save him, there''s nobody in this country who can..."


    Actually he was too nervous when he was checking Ambrose earlier and couldn''t really check him properly. But since Ambrose had vomited so much blood, he figured that he was going to die from internal bleeding, so he didn''t need to really check carefully to know that Ambrose couldn''t take the medicine at all, and was definitely going to die.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Jarrett''s veins were popping out of his hands, and he looked at Calista, ready to kill her.


    "What do you have to say for yourself?"


    Kallum on the contrary, was very calm. He pinched Calista lightly to tell her that she didn''t need to be afraid - even if her patient died it didn''t matter, because he was still around to support her.


    Calista never expected Kallum to have such trust in her, and her emotions became veryplex. But she managed to keep a calm expression on and she raised an eyebrow at the doctor. "Doctor, are you sure you don''t want to check one more time?"


    The doctor took a quick nce at Ambrose and was even more convinced, "No, I''m very sure my conclusion is right. Mr. Ambrose drank herbs that were too strong for his body, causing death from internal bleeding. Ms. Stafford, you''ve killed someone - why aren''t you scared at all?"


    Calista wasn''t just not fearful. She was extremely calm!


    After hearing what the doctor said, Calista confirmed her suspicions and smiled as she nodded, and then nced at Carl.


    "How interesting. There are all sorts of monsters everywhere in the Sinir residence!


    "Carl said he didn''t ask the doctor and boiled the herbs ording to my instructions. I only had half an hour and I was afraid that the medicine might not be strong enough, so I actually purposely increased the proportion on my prescription. But Carl added twice the amount I prescribed. I suppose all the scraps from the herb boiling have probably been disposed of by now?"


    Carl felt his entire body tremble as he continued to lie on the floor. He did put in twice the amount and got rid of all the scraps, but how did Calista know? Was she really able to tell the amount just by smelling it? How could that be?


    In his panic he totally forgot that he had never told Calista his name, but Calista knew his name.


    Now Calista turned to look at the doctor who was panicking.


    "After checking, you said Ambrose won''t make it, and the reason was that his body can''t take the medicine - this means that you''re suspicious too!"


    "Nonsense! You''ve killed someone and you want to push the me to me?"


    The doctor spoke confidently because he figured that Jarrett would believe him as he had served the family for many years now. He didn''t expect Calista to suspect him so easily.


    "I''m spouting nonsense?" Calista


    looked at Jarrett, who was trying to suppress his anger, and said very seriously, "Ambrose has vomited the blood clots in his body, and he has fainted from trying hard to recover after absorbing all the medicine. You pretended to check him for a few minutes and then immediately said the medicine was too strong for his body. So that means you''d seen the prescription earlier and knew what he had taken, and had already guessed this would happen. So when you saw Ambrose lying unconscious, you just said what you already concluded earlier, but actually you were too panicky earlier to check for anything, right?


    Carl said that he didn''t ask you about the prescription, so it means both of you are lying!"


    Jarrett finally found a glimmer of hope!


    "Did you say...Ambrose is ok? He''s...just fainted?"


    Ambrose had vomited blood all over his body and was barely breathing, and it was little wonder that the doctor had immediately concluded that Ambrose was going to die. "What''s going on?!"


    The doctor jumped up agitatedly. "I checked his pulse earlier, and his heartrate was only sixty, his pupils have lost focus too, so he''s definitely on the brink of death! Ms. Stafford, why are you still trying to defend yourself by ming others? ve been a doctor for twenty years now, you think I wouldn''t know if Mr. Ambrose is just unconscious or on the verge of death?"


    Calista raised her eyebrows, let go of Kallum''s hand and walked slowly towards the doctor. "Are you sure?"


    The old man thought through what


    happened earlier. Even though he


    didn''t check very carefully, Ambrose''s breathing and heartrate was very poor, plus he had vomited so much blood, so the only possibility was that the medicine


    was too intense and he was going to die from it!


    So he nodded.


    "I''m sure!"


    "Very good! I''ll let you see what it means to die!"


    Calista walked over to Ambrose and without thinking, Jarrett stopped her and said, "What are you doing?"


    Calista snorted, "What else? I''m going to let you watch me resurrect the dead."


    She had said "resurrect the dead" very sarcastically, and was obviously poking fun at the doctor''s conclusion that Ambrose was as good as dead.


    Her sudden cold attitude made Jarrett very ufortable. He grabbed Calista''s hand with mixed feelings in his eyes.


    "Is he really going to be ok? You''re really going to save him?!"


    Calista pushed his hand away and replied coldly, "You''ll know in a few moments whether I''m here to kill him or save him!"


    She then stretched her hands out over Ambrose''s chest, and the four needles she inserted earlier obediently returned to her fingers.


    Once the needles had been removed, Ambrose suddenly opened his eyes wide and took in a deep breath.


    At the same time, there was some steam evaporating from his body, and he choked a little.


    Jarrett waspletely stunned and didn''t dare to touch him, and watched as Ambrose''s face immediately regained its natural color. Or rather, his face had never been so pink and healthy before!

 Chapter 74 Take Revenge On Those She Ought To

    His heartbeat began to pick up speed, and all the herbs that were originally fatal to him were all taken away by the Bnced Energy that Calista had injected into his body. He had never felt his heart beat so strongly and steadily before! This feeling...if Ambrose always felt that he barely existed, now he felt real, like blood was really pumping through his body.


    "J-Jarrett?"


    Ambrose''s voice nearly made Jarrett cry for joy! He was really ok!


    Carl and the doctor''s expressions immediately changed.


    How could this be? Wasn''t Ambrose about to die?!


    Carl was in a panic and wanted to run, but after being shot in the leg by Calista, there was no way he could outrun the other bodyguards.


    Carl was about to take his gun out but he was quickly surrounded by seven or eight others. Jarrett stared coldly at him, and after calming down, he finally understood what was really going on.


    "Bring him over here!"


    When he saw that Carl couldn''t escape, the doctor copsed on the floor and felt that he had no more strength left.


    Ambrose had just said one word but he was so tired that he fell asleep again immediately. His body was very weak, so Calista quickly checked his vitals to find that his body was reacting well, and his heartrate was much better than before. When Jarrett saw Calista look relieved after checking, he thought to himself, how had he nearly falsely used Calista earlier in his panic?


    He felt bitterness in his heart for a moment, then followed by intense fury! It was these idiots who had misled him!


    "Spit it out! Why did you want to harm my brother?"


    From Calista''s analysis earlier, it was obvious that they were lying earlier, but why?!


    Jarrett thought of a lot of possible reasons. He was a very paranoid person in the first ce, and once suspected, Carl and this doctor were definitely doomed!


    Calista wasn''t interested in watching Jarrett deal with his own internal matters. So after making sure Ambrose was alright, she walked towards Jarrett.


    Jarrett was a little ashamed to face Calista right now, so he avoided eye contact with her and said stiffly, "My brother..."


    ""He''s fine."


    Calista narrowed her eyes at Carl, who was now pressed against the ground by several others.


    "Your brother''s illness is a small matter to me. He will recover in half a year."


    Calista''s words were like a gift from heaven to Jarrett.


    "Really?!"


    Was this possible? Nobody knew what to do with this illness for so long, but now Calista said she could heal him in half a year.


    "Whether I''m telling the truth or not, you''ll know in due time."


    Calista maintained a poker face as she patted Jarrett''s shoulder and pointed at Carl and said, "This man here increased the dosage and was obviously trying to use me to kill your brother, so he''s got something against me. Can I exact revenge on him?" Everyone exchanged weird nces after hearing her request. She had talked about taking revenge so calmly. There wasn''t any difference in her tone of voice, as if this was a natural reaction to this situation.


    Jarrett was feeling guilty after falsely using Calista, so he nodded.


    "Excellent." Calista smiled calmly, but a murderous aura started emanating from her as she walked towards Carl.


    When she thought about how Carl had tried to make her a murderer, Calista felt likeughing.


    In both her previous life and this life, she had never brought harm to this man, but this man had tried to harm her again for his own gain. So he couldn''t me her for being nasty to him!


    She put her foot on the back of Carl''s hand that was firmly pushed against the ground, and asked coldly, "I don''t want to know who instigated you. All I know is that you immediately ganged up with others to do me in even though you had only seen me for the first time! If Jarrett had shot me earlier to death, you would have been very happy, right?"


    Calista stepped hard on his hand as she said this.


    Carl took in a deep breath from the pain. His life was on the line now since he had tried to harm Ambrose, so Jarrett was definitely going to kill him there and then and there would be no chance for the person behind this to save him. So there was no other choice but to try to divert her attention away from him!N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    "It wasn''t my n! It''s...it''s Quincy! She was the one who told me to do this! She wants you dead!"


    He thought that he could distract Calista with this.


    But Calista startedughing instead, and she wasughing very happily, but stepping down on his hand even harder.


    "It''s Quincy... Stafford?"


    She bent down and stepped hard with each word. She had a lot of strength, and there was a chilling sound of bones cracking under her foot.


    Carl looked up and yelped pitifully. His hand was about to be destroyed by her!


    "AHHH! Yes!! It''s Quincy! Please let me off! I''m just taking orders from her!"


    Calista just pretended not to hear and gave one final step. Carl stopped screaming because it was too painful to even speak.


    There was blood all over the ground and Carl''s hand was now limp and beyond recognition - his hand was obviously incapacitated.


    She saw that Carl was now sweating


    profusely, the pain making him wish


    he were dead, but because many people were holding him down, he couldn''t even struggle. Didn''t this look just like her in her previous life


    when he had captured her?


    She had been held down like this, then had her hand stepped on like that, and her right hand couldn''t hold a needle anymore!


    "Carl, can you feel my pain now?"


    Calista''s words through her smile were very soft, as if she was talking to herself.


    But her smile sent chills down Carl''s spine. If he was given another chance, he wouldn''t have done this!


    Everyone present felt great fear in


    their hearts. How was there such a vicious woman? If anyone tried to harm her, she would get back at you immediately, and she wasn''t going to go soft on anyone.


    "Have fun, Carl."


    Carl''s leg was in pain, and his hand was in great pain too! His tears and mucus couldn''t stop running from the pain, and he wanted to faint right now.


    But suddenly he realized something.


    "How...how did you know my name?"


    The name he told Quincy was a fake name!


    Calista finally took her foot back in an act of great mercy and slowly smiled as she said, "Because...I''m a ghost who climbed out from the depths of hell to exact revenge on you." Her lips were as red as a demoness, and Carl believed her in that moment.


    Jarrett suddenly grabbed Calista''s hand.


    "Enough. He is definitely guilty of something and I will tell you once I''ve investigated everything thoroughly!"


    Calista looked up at Jarrett, and there was still some madness in her eyes, making her sparkly eyes even brighter than ever.


    "Jarrett, you think I''m going to let you off?"


    There was a loud bang, and Jarrett grabbed his shoulder in shock and staggered backwards. Calista was still holding her gun, aimed at him, and was still smiling like before.


    The bodyguards were shocked and quickly surrounded her and pointed their guns at her. As long as Jarrett gave the order, Calista would be shot to pieces.


    But Calista wasn''t afraid at all, and her voice was even more rxed than ever.


    "I''ve told you before. If you point a gun at me again, I''ll break one of your limbs. After I''m done breaking your arms I''ll go for your legs. I''m a woman of my word."


    She was like a super sharp needle right now - if anyone tried to harm her, they''d better be prepared to face a counterattack from her!


    All the men were terrified when they were faced with such a scary side of Calista. But this side of Calista made Kallum feel like this heart had been captured by her, and was unable to breathe. She was so dangerous, so intense! And so eye catching! Was she really Calista?


    After taking her revenge, Calista


    rxed and dropped the gun on the ground. She looked at Jarrett who was staring at her with mixed feelings and still holding his


    shoulder, tilted her head and<pughed. "Aren''t you going to let me go? saved your brother and found two traitors, you sure you want to continue pointing a gun at me?"

 Chapter 75 Nowhere To Vent Anger

    Before Jarrett could say anything, Kallum suddenly startedughing, andughed louder and louder. He looked at Calista as if he was extremely proud of her. "Silly girl."


    He took Calista''s hand in his, as if he was pulling her out of a twisted universe.


    Calista was stunned for a while and looked hard at Kallum.


    But he didn''t look at her. Instead he looked down and carefully massaged her hand.


    "You''ve never fired a gun before, doesn''t your hand hurt? If you want to shoot someone or something, tell me and I''ll help you shoot!"


    There was a twinkle in his eye as he gently massaged her hand.


    "I''m a really sharp shooter. No bullets are wasted in my hands."


    Quintus had a weird expression on his face as he stood behind Kallum.


    Mr. Kallum! Quintus thought to himself, you can''t spoil your fianc¨¦e like that! Ms. Calista has fired a shot at Jarrett! Not just any rat on the street, but Jarrett! Instead of thinking about how to clean this mess up, you''re worried about Ms. Calista hurting herself! So what if you''re a sharp shooter? In ancient Chanaea you would have been like a yful prince bringing harm to his own country!


    Quintus looked at the forces he was up against and cursed himself. Calista had injured the head of the n in his own house and Kallum was still saying crazy things! He told himself that next time he''d better bring more people if they had to visit someone else''s house because he couldn''t fight so many all by himself!


    Calista finally snapped back to reality. She looked strangely at her own hand, at hen followed the trail of blood to Jarrett.


    She had calmed down considerably, and she now looked at Jarrett as if he was a stranger. Jarrett suddenly felt a pain in his chest. He had a feeling that Calista wasn''t going to look for him first thing the next time she needed help.


    His actions earlier had pushed Calista away, and given her personality, she would not allow him to go close to her again.


    For some reason, this thought made him nearly stop breathing.


    He was still bleeding, and a man in ck behind Jarrett finally cracked open his mouth, "Mr. Jarrett..."


    He wanted to know if they could shoot or not. They couldn''t touch Kallum, but since this woman hade in to create trouble, if they let her go now, it would be hard to keep their standing in this house. Jarrett closed his eyes. "Let them go!"


    Nobody moved. This woman had shot at the master of the house and they had to let her go?


    Kallum smiled, shot Jarrett a cold stare, and then pulled Calista towards the exit confidently, as if nothing had happened.


    Even though Callie had avenged herself on the spot, he hadn''t forgotten how Jarrett had nearly killed her! He was going to get back at him in due time!


    The anger from Kallum made everyone make way for him. If they had to shoot, they could only shoot at Calista, because the Sinirs couldn''t afford to offend the Fairchilds.


    But even though they were the ones who let them go, they felt as if they were the ones who had offended both Kallum and the person who could save Ambrose.


    After they had left, Jarrett felt like he had suddenly lost all strength and nearly copsed.


    "Mr. Jarrett! Why don''t you dress your wounds first?" He had bled a lot!


    Another underling was smart enough to have called another doctor over, but Jarrett walked away towards Ambrose instead.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    After all thatmotion, he had heard nothing and was still in deep sleep. His sweet sleeping face was still pink and full of life, unlike in the past, where he looked like he might never wake up again. "You,e and take a look at Ambrose," Jarrett pointed at the new young doctor, and the doctor quickly came to check Ambrose.


    The more he checked, the more surprised he became. Ambrose''s heart had be much stronger than before, and his vitals were much better than before.


    He excitedly reported, "Mr. Jarrett! Mr. Ambrose is much better than before. I''m sure he will recover after a few more rounds of treatment!"


    Before this, Jarrett would have been ovee with joy upon hearing such words.


    But now when he thought of that cold look in Calista''s eyes before she left, his heart hurt and he frowned deeply.


    The doctor thought that Jarrett


    reacted this way because he was in pain. When he arrived, he only heard that Jarrett had been shot but he didn''t dare to ask who had the gall to shoot Jarrett in his own house, and minded his own business as he asked, "Mr. Jarrett, I''ll help you


    remove the bullet?"


    Jarrett pushed his hand away and looked coldly at Carl who still hoped to live, and the older doctor who was frightened half to death. "So this is what you meant by saying my brother was on the verge of dying?"


    Jarrett''s serious voice also carried some viciousness, ready to kill this old doctor anytime. If this man hadn''t spouted nonsense, he wouldn''t have been so agitated and nearly kill Calista. "Quite apparently, you''ve seen the prescription, and you were hoping to see Ambrose die." That cold voice made it hard to tell what Jarrett was thinking, and the doctor immediately knelt on the floor.


    "It''s all Carl''s fault! He was the one who instigated me! I''ll tell you everything! Mr. Jarrett, please don''t kill me..."


    Jarrett snorted coldly, "If I let you off, who will let me off?"


    Nobody understood what he meant, but Jarrett calmly turned away.


    "Drag them out and break their limbs before interrogation!" said Jarrett as he took a handkerchief from another underling to stop the bleeding.


    "After you get answers, pull their tongue out." Heughed coldly, "That''s their punishment for trying to malign others. Keeping it around would only do them harm."


    "Yes... Mr. Jarrett." All the subordinates were tense - it had been a long time since Jarrett had meted out such severe punishment.


    Aftering out of the Sinirs'' house, Calista''s feelings were very confused.


    She had taken revenge on the man who broke her hand, and since Carl had betrayed Jarrett, he would meet a terrible end for sure. But why did she feel so cold? She was very happy when she had first taken revenge, but after that feeling of happiness passed, she was left with nothing but coldness in her heart.


    Kallum was now wiping Calista''s hands with a wet handkerchief. "Carl said that Quincy instigated him, why didn''t you wait for him to finish talking before taking action?"


    "What''s there to say?" There was a glint in Calista''s eyes as she said coldly, "It doesn''t matter whether it''s Carl or Quincy, I won''t let either of them off."


    It was silent in the car, and Quintus was terrified as he was driving, thinking that he must never offend Calista. Ms. Calista was now a woman who could even simply shoot at a Sinir!


    Kallum didn''t expect Calista to hate


    Quincy so much, so he couldn''t help but ask, "What did Quincy do to you?¡± When he thought about Sterling''s strange behavior, he


    quickly threw in a reminder,


    better not do anything too overboard to Quincy. She seems to have some connection with the Wolfords. If she does anything, tell me and I''ll settle it for you."


    Calista snorted, "Of course I know her connection with the Wolfords."


    A cold glint shed across her eyes. "In fact, if it wasn''t for Sterling, Quincy would be ruined by now!"


    This matter made her very annoyed, so Calista closed her eyes and didn''t want to think about it anymore.


    Kallum suddenly felt great pity for her when he saw her behaving like this. He pressed a button and continued asking after the screen went up, "Calista, what have you gone through? You''repletely different from before." His direct questioning made Calista open her eyes violently, and looked like an animal ready to maul her attacker!

 Chapter 76 If Not A Kiss What About A Hug

    The bloodshed earlier had ignited the violence within her heart, and now she had an urge to tear apart anybody she saw.


    Kallum looked straight into her aggressive eyes and used his gentlest voice and asked, "I just want to help you."


    Help her?


    Calistaughed coldly. Where was he when she needed him the most in her previous life? Celebrating the annulment of their engagement? Or getting engaged to Mirabelle?


    In this life, she didn''t need any help, and definitely didn''t need any pity! She had no weakness for others to exploit, so she could tread on any of her enemies with no worries. Calista''s mockingughter made Kallum frown deeply.


    This was the first time he had fallen for someone, and he wanted only the best for her, but he didn''t even know what she wanted.


    When Calista had shot Jarrett earlier, he had been deeply impressed by her, but felt a great ache in his heart at the same time.


    People only changed this much when faced with death, and he had to admit that the woman he loved must have gone through something very terrifying without his knowledge.


    "Calista, you may be a very strong person, but you can''t be stronger than an entire n. Previously you struck a deal with me to be the Fairchilds'' goddaughter because you needed the power of my family, right? But now I''m willing to help you without you doing anything, why do you reject my help?"


    "Because you want emotions from me."


    Calista rested against the seat cushions and rxed, her mouth curling slightly into a mocking smile.


    "Emotions? I don''t have any of it left from my previous life. A deal is more practical."


    Kallum felt a lump in his throat.


    He sped his hands together and released them again and again, as if he was trying to hold back something.


    Before asking for her feelings, he had already given his own, so what was wrong in asking for feelings in return? He was not one to pursue a one-sided love affair!


    Calista didn''t want the feelings he had for her, so she didn''t want his help either - how much disdain did she have for him? This was like throwing his pride on the floor and stepping all over it!


    But when he saw how tired Calista looked, the fire in his heart was put out even before it could start. He waspletely helpless - why did he fall for her?


    The more he thought about this, he more agitated he became, and he suddenly lunged forward and kissed her lips.


    Calista didn''t struggle. It wasn''t the first time Kallum had kissed her anyway, and she was too tired to fight back.


    Besides, Kallum smelt good and his kiss was as passionate as himself. Sometimes he even seemed like a bright light warming up her cold body and made her feel alive.


    Her emotions were cold and unstable, so she didn''t mind his disy of affection, and even thought about getting more.


    But Kallum suddenly stopped and looked at Calista with mixed emotions. Earlier his confidence was broken, but he was back on his feet after one kiss!


    "You can reject me now, but I''m sure I''ll move you one day!"


    A look of confidence shed in his dark purple eyes. There was nothing that he, Kallum, could not do!


    He finished dering his intentions and moved back, but Calista suddenly threw her arms around his neck.


    She suddenly stared straight at him, capturing his attention, and looked dangerous.


    "That''s it?"


    She smiled as if to challenge him, her intricate face suddenlying to life, her seductive beauty making his heart pound!


    She had no love for him, only a desire to dominate him.


    "You always take advantage of me, so tell me...how should I repay you?"


    Kallum suddenly felt like he couldn''t move anymore, and it was as if he had be Calista''s prey and was being watched by her. He felt nervous and his mouth went dry at the same time. "What do you want?"


    He asked hoarsely, not realizing how much expectation he had in his eyes.


    She had lost all shame when she died the first time round, and after waking up in this life, Calista had already decided to do whatever she wanted. So in response to Kallum, she used a finger to lightly trace the outline of Kallum''s chest muscles and curled her lips into a smile.


    "Actually if you stop talking about liking or not liking me, I''m actually quite willing to be your lover."


    After all, after so many years of living she''d only slept with Kallum, and never thought about finding anyone else. "Do you know what you''re talking about?"


    Kallum narrowed his eyes dangerously and used both his hands to pull Calista into his embrace.


    He wasn''t sure if he was feeling happier or prouder, but his body started getting excited by this closeness to Calista. "Of course I know what I''m talking about. I like your body, it''s strong and warm."


    Calista then tiredly rested her head on Kallum''s chest, put her arms round his waist and closed her eyes.


    When she listened to his heart pounding, she suddenly stopped being on the defensive and strangely felt very secure.


    Whatever she said about being lovers was just a sudden thought. What she really wanted was just a hug.


    Kallum was the only man who had ever touched her, so even if he drove her to despair, she would not reject his affection.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    At this time she couldn''t think of anyone else who would give her a hug when she wanted some warmth andfort. How sad this situation was!


    Kallum was delighted that Calista hade close to him. Calista didn''t mind his body? Was it because he was her first man? Kallum''s brain went straight into the gutter.


    But he saw Calista bury her head in his embrace like an ostrich, and a sweet feeling rose from Kallum''s heart as he bent down to kiss her face lovingly. Seeing that she didn''t resist and even nestled deeper into his chest, Kallum couldn''t help butugh, and he suddenly understood what happened.


    Calista was feeling afraid earlier,


    right? She was so aggressive at the Sinirs'', seeking revenge and all, but she was feeling fearful in her heart, right? But she didn''t know how to express her fear and so she soughtfort now. Since he was her first man, he was her first


    avenue offort too.


    Even if so, he was still happy. So what if she didn''t like him now? He was still special to her, and that was enough!


    When they reached the Stafford residence, Kallum hadn''t moved and neither had Calista. She had hugged Kallum and quietly fell asleep, as if she''d never slept so well before.


    Quintus secretly sent a message to Kallum, and he replied: Go round the city via the outermost road. Drive slowly and carefully.


    Quintus nodded in response, but he was stunned by this reply.


    Kallum had never shown such care to anybody before, so he must have fallen very deeply in love this time.


    Quincy was at home waiting for news but there was no reply after waiting the entire day. She tried to call but the other party had turned his phone off.


    "Did he fail?" Quincy thought as much, since Calista seemed to be possessed by the devil and it seemed highly possible that he would fail...


    She decided to wait till Mirabelle returned before interfering. Then when Mirabelle and Calista were fighting with one another to death, she could seize the opportunity to catch this big fish!


    Everything was perfect in her


    imagination, and Quincy got ready to go out. She had one more important thing to do now. She had gotten a ce in Bayview University, but she needed solid research results if she wanted a good supervisor to guide her She didn''t have any, but she remembered that Calista had plenty in that small wooden hut...Calista''s research results were hers, weren''t they?

 Chapter 77 Standing On Trial

    By the time Calista reached home, three hours had already passed. She was full of energy after that long nap, so she rejected Kallum''s candlelight dinner offer and went straight home.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Quintus saw that Kallum dare not move for several hours just so that Calista could sleepfortably, and his shoulders must be aching by now, so he couldn''t help but say, "Ms. Stafford is a bit too..." He really wanted to say that she was too heartless in pushing Kallum aside after she had taken what she needed from him...


    Even though he had not said out his actual thoughts, his eyes had betrayed how he really felt.


    Kallum had taken a day off work and there must be a huge pile of work waiting for him now - who was it for? All the bodyguard cars and his car had gone round a quarter of Horington - who was that for? But Ms. Calista had rejected Mr. Kallum''s simple request to have a candlelight dinner together just like that! Poor Mr. Kallum...


    Kallum rolled his shoulders and threw him a dirty look.


    "If you say anymore, I''ll exchange you for Julian in Liberia!"


    Quintus quickly shut his mouth after that. Julian Parker had sent some news back earlier, saying that Liberia was now infected with the K Virus and the government was unable to do anything about it, so there was a lot of internal conflict happening there. Going there was as good as punishing himself! No way was he going there!


    Kallum saw that he was silent, and he smiled a little.


    He felt that Calista seemed gentler towards him, and that wasn''t just his own imagination! He had a feeling that he was going to win her over soon!


    ...and that''s why it''s often said that men''s intuition isn''t urate.


    When Calista got home, she noticed that the atmosphere in the house was very heavy. She hid away her good mood after getting a good rest earlier, smiling coldly as she walked in. "What''s going on?"


    She saw that none of the servants were around, but Benedict, Yelena and Quincy were all seated in the living room waiting for her, and she could guess what this was about.


    "Callie, don''t you know? The house that Grandpa and Grandma used to live in has been burnt! Burnt to the ground!"


    Quincy was saying this while observing Calista''s expression carefully.


    She was so angry as she said these words. She had originally nned to just break in and get those papers, and even if she triggered the security rm, she was family too so Calista couldn''t say anything. It wasn''t as if she had touched the safe!


    But who knew, the entire house had already been razed to the ground! After calling the police, the police told her that someone had set fire to the house several days back already.


    But what was she going to use to find a supervisor now?


    Calista nodded frustratedly, "Is that so? Perhaps that day I identally kicked the stove over when I left. Thankfully we took those books out earlier - those books are priceless treasures!" Calista was smiling as she said this, and everyone exchanged weird nces. They all knew that out of all of them, Calista was the one who cared most about that run down hut. But after hearing that it had been burnt to the ground, she was still able to smile and say that it happened because she was probably just not careful - it was all very strange! Benedict suddenly felt fear in his heart.


    "Callie, that''s where you spent the most time when you were a little girl. Now that it''s all gone, aren''t you sad?"


    Calista was the most filial to her grandparents, and now that everything they left behind was gone, Calista''s reaction was extremely abnormal.


    "Since it''s all burnt then it''s all burnt," Calista smiled, revealing a mouth full of pearly whites. "These things should have been destroyed after their owners passed away anyway. Is there food in the kitchen? I''m hungry." Yelena managed to snap out of her shock. She smiled stiffly and said, "Yes there is, all your favorites..."


    "Ok, I''ll get it myself." But before Calista turned to leave for the kitchen, she put on a poker face and asked, "Then again, there''s nothing valuable in that house. How did you find out that it had been burnt down?" Benedict looked towards Quincy, and she quickly bent her head and said, "I discovered it..."


    Before she could exin further, Calista pursed her lips into a smile.


    "I remember you said before that the house was haunted because that''s where Grandpa and Grandma died. Since you suddenly went there for no reason, aren''t you afraid of being possessed?"


    She purposely said thest few words in a scary low voice, sending chills down everyone''s spine.


    Quincy quickly cut in to exin herself.


    "I never said anything like that! How can the ce where Grandpa and Grandma passed away be haunted?"


    Calista couldn''t be bothered to listen to her exnation and made her way to the kitchen.


    Yelena gave aforting look to Quincy, and then helped to speak up for her, "Benedict, don''t listen to Callie say such nonsense. Quincy is the most filial to her grandparents, why would she say something like that? Callie is the one who''s saying really frightening things...tell you what, my nephew turns one month old in a few days, let''s bring Callie along to the party at my parents'' ce. She might feel better after getting some fresh air."


    Benedict nodded. Calista''s words hadn''t just made Quincy feel guilty, he felt guilty too. "Sure, we''ll bring Callie along too!"


    After he married Yelena, the Staffords and Langleys'' businesses were also tied together. If Callie could go out more often and build a good rtionship with the Langleys, it would do her good in the future too.


    If Calista knew about Benedict''s innocent thinking, she would probably have a goodugh.


    On the day of the first month party, Benedict brought the entire family along as previously agreed.


    In the past, Calista would try to avoid having to go out because she was fearful of her stepmother. The less she interacted with her stepmother, the more carefree she felt, and eventually Calista gave an


    impression that she preferred


    alone and she was rebellious and rude. Others were happy to see Quincy, but they would be judgmental towards Calista, so Calista began to hate going for gatherings, and didn''t like having to mix around with her so called


    ''rtives''.


    But that was in her previous life.


    When he knew that Calista was attending a party, Kallum sent a tailored long blue dress over the day before. It seemed conservative since it was a long dress, but it carried an air of mysterious beauty about it too, entuating the best of Calista, making her look unforgettable.


    Calista didn''t want to ept a present from Kallum since Sterling had already been called back home by Harvey urgently and she didn''t need to worry about him. But Kalfum was very clever and guessed that Calista wouldn''t want the clothes that Yelena prepared for her. Since his


    present had addressed a concern she had, it was hard to


    reject this gift.


    Calista decided not to make a fuss, so she owed Kallum one.


    Yelena had indeed prepared a dress that didn''t quite suit Calista, because she didn''t want Calista to steal the limelight from her own daughter. But Calista had her own dress and so her ns went up in smoke.


    At the Langley residence, countless guests started arriving. There were people greeting the guests in the front of the house, but the head of the Langleys gathered his family members at the back annexe of the house, as if he was waiting for someone to appear. The head of the Langleys was already over sixty, but his eyes still sparkled brightly, and was definitely no simple man.


    He had three sons, three grandsons and five granddaughters, so he was considered blessed.


    His eldest daughter-inw, Joanna Ziegler, came in smiling and asked, "Dad, we''re so busy outside! Why did you call us here instead of greeting the guests?"


    The other sons and their wives were also looking confusedly at the head of the household, Matthew Langley.


    "Yelena ising back today. I heard that there was some unhappiness in their house and Benedict wants to divorce her over it, so all of you sit here obediently! Then when Benedict arrives, all of you better advise him otherwise - what right does he have to bring up divorce!"


    One of them quietly pouted - only heaven knows what drug Yelena fed the old man, so much that he was so mindful of her, interfering with the Stafford family again and again, treating this illegitimate daughter better than his sons!

 Chapter 78 Humiliated As Usual

    But on the surface, everyone pretended to get along well.


    "Yelena called me earlier, she''s almost here!" said the old man''s third son - today was his son''s first month celebration.


    Speak of the devil - Benedict and his family were brought to the back annexe without exnation. When he saw that the hall was filled with arge group of people, Benedict''s eyes flickered but he still smiled and pulled his daughter along to greet them. Quincy and Yelena happily went to sit with the head of the Langleys, as if they had found their rightful ce. Meanwhile, Calista and Benedict continued standing where they were, and it was very awkward for them.


    But everyone in the house continued to smile andugh, as if they didn''t treat anyone as an outsider and was friendly with everyone.


    Calista suddenly understood why the Langleys were gathered here instead of entertaining the guests outside.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    "Ah, my son-inw...have a seat!" The old man said this while smiling, but he continued sitting along the wall, and got someone to bring some chairs over. Two chairs were for Quincy and Yelena to sit beside him, while Calista and Benedict sat right in the middle of the hall, as if they were on trial.


    Benedict kept a smile on as he asked, "Why is everyone here? No need to talk to the guests in front?"


    The eldest daughter-inw, Joanna, was full of smiles as she said, "There are some younger ones doing so, it''s good practice for them!"


    The head of the Langleys nodded, "That''s right, it''s only a small matter anyway. I''ve called you here because I have some things to talk to you about..." He patted Yelena''s hand and his voice became serious.


    "I hear you want to divorce Yelena?"


    Even though they had covered up the scandal, the head of the Langleys definitely knew about it. But he pretended not to know anything about it, instead he looked like a caring father trying to speak up for his daughter.


    Benedict''s expression darkened, but he had calmed down quite a bit after his initial angry outburst when the matter happened. Besides, he was now in the Langley residence, and he had to suppress any unhappiness he had. "No...I only said that in a fit of anger."


    The old man snorted. "I''m d you understand. Which married couple doesn''t quarrel? It''s a bit too much to mention divorce. The Langleys have always stood united as a family, and we''ve never had anything as scandalous as a divorce!"


    Benedict''s face started to look nasty. It was hard for him to ept this treatment as a man - he was being disciplined in his wife''s house, and the judgmental looks from the rest of the Langleys were hard to bear...but he clenched his fists and tolerated it, and he could only remain silent for now.


    Calista was seated beside him and couldn''t help butugh. This wasn''t the first time something like this was happening.


    The Langleys were a very domineering bunch, plus they had power in business and numbers, so they were much stronger than the Staffords.


    Benedict was a softhearted and pliable man, and after being molded by Yelena for more than a decade, the Staffords became more and more like an appendage to the Langleys, and this sort of disciplining happened now and then.


    Yelena''s elder brother, Hans Langley, harrumphed unhappily when he saw Calistaughing. "Children should be quiet when adults are talking, what are youughing at!"


    His fierce questioning was aimed directly at Calista.


    Hans was Wyatt''s father, so he was now the main pir of the Langleys, and he had a much stronger presencepared to Benedict.


    "What, I can''t evenugh?" Calista quietly replied.


    She was different from how she used to be, and Hans immediately marked her as a rebel. Since when did stray dogs and cats talk back to him? He snorted disdainfully again.


    "Benedict, I don''t mean to criticize you, but did you bring Calista up? She''s disrespectful to her elders and she doesn''t have any manners - she will be such an embarrassment to Quincy if anybody finds out that they''re sisters! If you don''t want to discipline her, I''ll discipline her for you!"


    Benedict''s face was now ashen. He wasn''t dead yet but his brother-inw wanted to discipline his daughter for him? This was even worse than shaming him.


    The old man was very pleased with how his son was talking to Benedict, and so he added on in a serious voice, "She does need to be taken in hand. Benedict, have you forgotten who helped your family when you were facing a crisis? If not for Yelena, your family would have gone bankrupt by now! Yelena has put in so much effort and heart into the family, but this daughter of yours still goes against her! What a waste of our good intentions!"


    l.ne


    Hans continued, "Dad is right! Benedict, everyone has to live with a clear conscience! I''m only in my forties, and the family business is doing well under my care. But you You don''t have the head for business, and if Yelena hadn''t done so much legwork for your family, you think the Staffords would enjoy its current status? Never mind that you''re not grateful for all this, you still want a divorce? And then you let your immature daughter simply bully Quincy? Excuse me, the Langleys aren''t dead yet, you know!"


    The other family members didn''t say anything and continued watching the good show in front of them. Meanwhile, Yelena was pretending to cry pitifully, but she was secretly hoping her family would say nastier things, so that Benedict wouldn''t dare to fight back.


    Joanna unhappily added on,


    "Exactly. When the Staffords were in


    trouble, if


    It wasn''t for Yelena going around begging others, if the


    Langleys didn''t use their reserves to save you, you wouldn''t be standing here today. Besides, if you hadn''t gotten drunk then and ruined Yelena''s reputation, you think our


    family would allow any of our


    members to marry into your family?"


    The other family members joined in the fray, not wanting to lose to each other in hurling insults.


    "Precisely! If it wasn''t on ount of Yelena, I wouldn''t lend any money out!"


    "Yelena''s a wonderful woman, but she''s too strong-willed and too honest, suffering in silence and allowing herself to be bullied at home. She''s served the family with all her heart but it didn''t end well for her."


    Everyment slowly wiped the smile off Benedict''s face.


    But then he thought about how he was in the wrong first - if he hadn''t slept with Yelena after getting drunk, Yelena would not have married him.


    Then he also thought about how hispany went into a financial crisis after his wife passed away. If Yelena had not managed to raise enough funds, he wouldn''t have made it through the crisis. So he had to tolerate this - no matter how they ridiculed him, he had to tolerate it!


    When everyone saw that Benedict had fallen silent, they were all secretly happy and started to pick on Calista. "Calista, I don''t mean to be nasty, but earlier Quincy had greeted everyone, what didn''t you? You don''t even have basic manners, is this what you learnt from your family?"


    Hans drank a mouthful of tea, confident and proud.


    Benedict was red in the face - Calista didn''t like to greet others, but that was a problem with her personality. How did it be an issue of family upbringing? He wanted to defend his daughter, but he knew that he would only make it worse by doing so.


    As for Quincy and Yelena? Other people were ridiculing their father and husband, but they didn''t say a single word and were happily watching this show in front of them.


    This was what the Langleys imed to be doing for your own good, and this was what it meant to be a family.


    Calista smiled again, but this smile was much moreplicated than before. This house was full of clowns, and it was both hrious and hateful at the same time.


    "What sort of attitude is this?!" Calista''s smile agitated Hans, and he mmed the teacup down hard on the table.


    "You are being unfilial now! Your mother died giving birth to you, and if not for Yelena, you think you would be leading such afortable life now? You''re not grateful at all and not repentant at all! I think I have to keep you in the Langley residence to be disciplined!" This was probably the main point of the day, right? After listening to them talk so much, Calista finally understood what they were driving at, and her smile became even more disdainful.

 Chapter 79 Get Out

    Hans was furious when he realized she was still smiling.


    "Benedict! Get out now - I think Calista is not going to repent for as long as you are around. She''s so immature, so her uncle here has to teach her a thing or two!" Benedict looked worriedly at Calista, but Calista was also getting angry and wanted Benedict to go out too.


    She couldn''t stand watching her father suffer this sort of humiliation any longer. This humiliation was not just directed at Benedict, but at the entire Stafford family! ""You''re still sitting here?!"


    Hans used hismanding voice as if he was of a higher position than others, and Benedict had no choice but to go out. The moment he walked out, the faces of the Langley family members that looked ''friendly'' earlier immediately changed. "Calista, you''re in university already, but you don''t even understand basic things like being respectful and being grateful! Where did all your years of studying go?!" Hans red at her while shouting in a high voice.


    Calista finally experienced that feeling of being humiliated that she had felt before. Every time they came to the Langley residence, the Langleys would drag her and her father aside to ridicule them and put them down. This feeling was so familiar to her!


    "Exactly," Joanna snorted. "Everything that you''ve eaten and drunk was given to you by Yelena! You think that father of yours is so capable? The Staffords'' business would have failed in his hands by now! The reason why it''s still surviving is because of Yelena! Because of the Langleys!"


    What she was implying was that she was merely a dog that the Langleys took care of out of their own convenience.


    Hansughed coldly, "You think his daughter doesn''t know how much her own father is really able to achieve on his own? He just looks good on the surface! In actual fact, Yelena is in charge of both the home and the office, but you''ve created extra trouble for Yelena! Looks like you''re not just unfilial and ungrateful, but you''re also a nasty and evil child!"


    "Are you all done talking?"


    Her icy voice suddenly cut through the agitated haranguing, and Calista slowly stood up.


    The Langleys werepletely shocked by this statement, and the hall immediately quietened down.


    In the past, they would not stop until Calista was crying miserably from shame and apologizing profusely. But Calista was certainly not going to cry today. Her expression waspletely cold, and she never wiped that irritating smile off her face.


    Calista was smiling, but all who met her gaze could feel her fury.


    The Langleys were the best at twisting the truth and saying shameless things.


    Benedict hadmitted debauchery?


    Yelena had set him up in order to hide the fact that she was pregnant with someone else''s child!


    Back then, Benedict''s wife had just passed away from a difficult delivery, and the wife''s family had cut ties with the Staffords long ago. Benedict''s parents weren''t with him and all he had left was a helpless little baby girl, plus he wasn''t a guarded person and was easy to control, so he was the perfect choice for the Langleys to frame.


    The Staffords went into a financial crisis?


    But who created this crisis? It was the Langleys! In order to force Benedict to marry Yelena, the Langleys had created this crisis so that Benedict waspletely helpless. Then Yelena appeared with this child and made a big show of saving his family business but took over half of thepany shares in the process. After that Benedict ended up being grateful and courteous to the Langleys, and even brought up someone else''s child for free! They really yed this game well.


    Why did thest major investment from the Staffords fail?


    Because the Wolfords interfered! In order to make sure that Yelena''s n worked and to solidify Quincy''s position, the Wolfords came up with a disgusting scheme. Then Yelena had apparently gone to beg her family for money, but was she really trying to borrow money? Harvey was enjoying Yelena''s services for an entire month in that bungalow somewhere in the outskirts of Horington, wasn''t he?


    Why was the head of the Langleys, Matthew, helping Yelena so much? It was to get benefits from Harvey!


    Why did Hans keep speaking up for Yelena? This one was worse - he had slept with this stepsister of his!


    Why did the Langleys keep putting Benedict down once her grandparents had passed away?


    Why did they want to humiliate Calista while Benedict wasn''t around?


    It was so that they could attack thest two members of the Staffords emotionally, and then Yelena could control the Staffordspletely, to make sure none of the Langley family scandals were made known!


    They did so many evil things but still wanted to keep a good reputation. They had forcibly taken so many benefits from others but still wanted to take the moral high ground!


    Calista couldn''t think of how to describe this bunch, and definitely could not forget how repulsed she felt when she found out about all this.


    "You know something?" Calista spoke slowly, making sure that every word was enunciated well. "You are the most shameless, disgusting and immoral people I have ever seen!"


    Getting entangled with the Langleys was like an umtion of bad luck from Benedict''s previous lifetimes!


    There was a loud cracking sound as Hans crushed the teacup in his hand.


    "How dare you! Calista, who do you think you''re talking to now!" Hans'' fierce stare was going to stare a hole into Calista.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    He stood up and burst out angrily, "Kneel down now! Apologize now! Otherwise the Langleys will retract all our investment and make your father bankrupt! You dare to put on airs in the Langley residence? Did you think you''re really some rich man''s daughter? You''re just a jinx who caused your mother''s death and now you''re riddled with debt! Or you thought that your life would be smooth because you''ve got Mr. Kallum behind you? Without the support of this side of the family, you''re nothing to the Fairchilds!"


    They were determined to hammer down hard on Calista! The best would be to make her as weak as she used to be! That way, even if she married into the Fairchilds, the Langleys would be able to reap some benefit too.


    They were not very concerned with


    Kallum''s change in attitude, since they had seen how Kallum had hated Calista so much in the past, and he might just be nice to her on a whim now. But Calista wanted to use this little bit of love from him tosh out on the Langleys? She had no idea what she was dealing with!


    Essentially, once they had Calista in their control, then if Kallum married her, the Langleys would benefit; if he didn''t, then Calista still had a pretty face they could use to their own benefit. Basically Calista had no way to take control of her own life! The old manughed hollowly when he saw that Calista did not react.


    "Looks like she''s be ambitious now. She isn''t just ungrateful, but she even wants to turn around and bite her owner. Yelena, tell Benedict to leave Calista behind here and we''ll discipline her. I guarantee we''ll return him an obedient and mature youngdy in less than a month."


    Yelena nodded and excitedly ran out.


    A teacupnded and smashed right next to Calista''s foot. Hans couldn''t wait to beat her up himself.


    "I told you to kneel, didn''t you hear me? You want to go bankrupt? I''ll help you!"


    His words had finally agitated Calista, so she suddenlyughed, scanned the people in the room, then turned and walked out.


    "Grab her!"


    But Hans was toote. In order to quietly discipline the Staffords, there were only two people at the door, and the rest were elsewhere attending to guests.


    They ran up to Calista and tried to grab her hand, and she immediately stopped smiling. Her frightening gaze sent chills down the spine of both of them.


    ""Get lost!!"


    Those two words sounded murderous to them, and they felt like their hearts were being squeezed. They dared not to go any nearer to her and just watched her leave, unable to move.

 Chapter 80 Two Tight Slaps

    Hans was so angry that he wanted to beat someone up when he saw that Calista had run out, but his wife quickly stopped him.


    "What are you afraid of? Once Benedict agrees to leave Calista here, we''ll have plenty of time to torture her. Besides, since Calista has made a run for it, it shows that that she''s still afraid of us, so she''s not a threat to us at all. Your third brother''s full month celebration party is more important now, let''s go get changed first!"


    Hans snorted and decided to let Calista off for now. She was so full of herself earlier, but still ran away in fear anyway. How different was she from before?


    How different was she from before?


    After Calista left the back hall, she immediately went to the main hall where most of the guests had already arrived. It was a buffet style party, so everyone was just milling around, waiting for the host to start the party officially.


    Benedict hesitated when he heard what Yelena told him. Leave Calista here for a month? He wasn''t willing to, but he couldn''t think of a good reason to refuse her.


    Suddenly the main door of the hall was kicked open with a loud bang!


    Everyone was startled - the Langleys were an important family in Horington. Who had the guts to do something like that?


    Calista walked in withrge strides and a cold expression on her face. Very few people present recognized her because she rarely came out of the house.


    Calista had a murderous look in her eyes, making the guests feel ufortable, but luckily she was headed in Yelena''s direction.


    Yelena knew that Calista must have taken a terrible scolding from her family earlier, so she had a bright smile on her face. Whenever she saw Calista suffering, the feeling she had was even better than that after she had eaten delicious delicacies. "Callie, you''vee at the right time. Your father has agreed to let you stay here and y for an entire month."


    Benedict''s eyes widened. When had he agreed to that?


    But he couldn''t say anything since everyone was watching, and could only tug Yelena''s sleeve with a frown.


    Yelena pretended she didn''t feel him tugging at her and stepped forward to take Calista''s hand while saying in a friendly tone, "Callie, aren''t you happy..."


    PAK! Calista pped her and cut off any boastful words she meant to say.


    There was an uproar in the hall! Someone had the gall to hit a Langley in their own house?!


    Yelena felt all the blood rush to her face, and she red at Calista in disbelief as she held her sore cheek. Calista dared to hit her? And pped her in the face?


    The few hundred guests started murmuring among themselves - they didn''t know Calista, but they knew who Yelena was. Who was this person? Why was she attacking a Langley?


    "Callie..." Benedict wanted to pull her back, but Yelena pushed him aside. Her eyes were burning with anger now, and she spat out each word in a low voice, "You little slut, how dare you hit me?!"


    Calista smiled serenely, then raised her hand and gave another p. This p was so hard, Yelena fell onto the floor. Everyone quickly moved aside and stared in horror at Calista. Was this girl mad? Couldn''t they have a good chat first? Did she have toe out and hit another person?


    "I''m pping you, my lovely stepmother. Is it fun to use me? Was it delightful to hear how we were humiliated earlier in the other room?"


    Calista was gleefully asking these questions as she massaged her wrist.


    "Enough...Callie, can''t you see where we are?" Benedict could see that Calista was speaking up for him, but he had to stop her because this was not the right ce to do so.


    Yelena saw that Benedict had gone to block Calista but didn''t help her up, and she was furious.


    But after she had heard all the gasps from the guests, she quickly stopped being angry with Benedict. Calista had dared to touch her in front of so many people, so she was going to bring Calista down today!


    So even though the hate was practically bursting out from her eyes, she immediately bent her head down and started crying pitifully on the floor.


    "Callie, why must you treat me like this? I''m your mother! I''m just concerned about you and would like to take you in hand. You''ve made a mess at home already, can''t you think about the Staffords'' image outside?" She sounded so pitiful and long suffering when she said this, and many people who didn''t know anything started looking at Calista as if she was an evil person.


    So this was Yelena''s stepdaughter? Even though she was very pretty, her character was terrible! She was indeed like how Yelena described her - no manners, unteachable and disobedient! Poor Yelena! Someone rushed over to help Yelena up. She was a friend of Yelena, and seeing how pitiful Yelena was, she became angry and started scolding Calista.


    "So this is your stepdaughter? Such poor character and poor upbringing! She even dares to hit you in front of so many people! Yelena, don''t try to shield her. Send her to the police for a few days first!"


    "I''ve never seen anyone dare to hit


    an elder before! Yelena took care of you all these years and you treat her like this? If you''re so bold outside, Yelena must be suffering at home You unfitial child! With violent tendencies! Even a pet knows how to be grateful, but you''re even worse than an animal!" Another woman also came out to scold Calista, pointing a finger straight at her.


    Yelena pretended to look very afraid of Calista, as if she had really been bullied badly at home, so that everyone watching would look poorly on Calista.


    Previously there were some who didn''t quite believe Yelena when she spoke badly about Calista, but now everybody was on Yelena''s side after Calista had pped her twice.


    "Hurhurhur...haha, HAHAHA!" Calistaughed coldly at first, then she burst outughing loudly, and a fierce look shed in her eyes. She looked at Yelena as if she was looking at garbage.


    She pushed Benedict''s hand aside and asked slowly, "Unfilial? Worse than an animal? I would like to ask all of you watching! She specially arranged for her family to use their influence to humiliate her husband, and then watched gleefully as her husband got torn to shreds. Is she still worthy of being called a wife?"


    Everyone was taken aback.


    Calistaughed again. "She goes around badmouthing her husband''s daughter with histe wife. On the surface it sounds like she''s airing her grievances, but she''s been secretly oppressing her stepdaughter, and she''s worthy of being called a mother?"


    "What do you think my father and I


    were doing in the back hall? Yelena disgraced herself and my father wanted to divorce her, so she got


    her entire family to humiliate m


    father To use their power to oppress him! There are many men here - let me ask you, what would you do if your wives got their family to point fingers at you and humiliate


    you?"


    All the men present were just watching a good show, but when they considered the scenario Calista had painted, they felt that Benedict must be really pitiful. There was a good reason why men always married women with lower social standing than themselves. Yelena began to panic with every word that Calista said. She didn''t expect Calista to just blurt everything out without considering her reputation.


    When Benedict saw that Calista wasContent ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    deliberately speaking up for him, even though it was embarrassing considering the number of people watching he felt warmth in his heart. Earlier in the back hall, Yelena hadn''t spoken up for him at att... No, in fact, the Langleys had done this on her orders, and he would be lying if he said he wasn''t angered by how they had humiliated him like this.


    "Ok, ok...Callie, don''t say anymore," Benedict was grateful that his daughter spoke up for him, but he still felt indebted to the Langleys in his heart, that he had brought Yelena down with his one drunken mistake, so he didn''t want to go too far either. "No, I''m going to continue." Calista disregarded Benedict''s words and walked over to Yelena. There was an intensely cold air around her, and Yelena''s anger dissipated and turned into fear.

 Chapter 81 Exposing The Rumors Along The Way

    "Yelena, I was afraid of you and the Langleys, so I never defended myself against all the things you said about me to others. Now that everyone is around, let''s thrash things out now!" Panic shed in Yelena''s eyes, and the host of the day''s event had finallye over to see what was happening. When he saw Calista, Wyatt hesitated for a moment but pulled her aside anyway. "Calista, today is an important day for the Langleys. Can you settle your personal matter privately?"


    Calista pulled herself out of Wyatt''s grip and red at him as she smiled coldly. "Settle it privately? My family is about to go bankrupt, why should I settle this privately? Do you know what your grandfather and father said to me just now? They said that if I dare to disobey Yelena, your family is going to bankrupt mine! What power your family wields! I don''t know if Yelena married into my family or my father married into hers! Mrs. Stafford, you''d better exin this now!"


    Benedict''s expression darkened and forgot about trying to upkeep his image. He asked with an angry face, "They...they actually said that?!"


    Wyatt looked a little guilty - he knew that his grandfather had called everyone to the back earlier over his aunt and uncle, and actually this had happened before but he never bothered himself about it.


    In the past, Calista always came running out and crying and he had no idea what happened. His mother only told him that it was because Calista was disobedient and they had scolded her a little, but he never knew the actual situation was like this!


    All the guests were waiting to watch a good show now. The Langleys were really flexing their muscles here, saying things like that. Usually daughters were married off into their husband''s family, and for them to control their daughter''s husband in their own house...what busybodies they were! "How could that be? We...we would never say something like that!"


    Yelena was starting to feel out of breath but she continued angrily, "You''ve hit your stepmother in front of so many people, you....you! You''ve thoroughly embarrassed the Staffords! And you still think you are in the right?!"


    She tugged at Benedict and pleaded, "Benedict, say something..."


    Benedict looked back at her coldly, and that cold re made Yelena take her hand back in fright.


    Calista chortled as she scanned the crowd and asked, "In the past, Yelena badmouthed me to other people and I quietly endured it. But today, I will endure it no longer! Today I want to ask everyone what you''ve heard from Yelena, and we''ll sort it out right now!" Onedy had a bone to pick with Yelena from long ago, so she pretended to be angry as she said, "You''re such an immature child! Yelena is so nice to you! She gives you fifty grand of allowance money, but only five grand to Quincy. Yet you still hit her!" "That''s a good one," Calista stared straight at Yelena, "Fifty grand. Did you give that to me in cash or by bank transfer?"


    Yelena saw that all eyes were on her, Wyatt wasn''t helping her and the rest of the Langleys were still in the back annexe. She had no way to escape, so she trembled as she said, "Sometimes cash, sometimes transfer..."


    Calista smiled again. "Then did you use your phone to make the transfer or yourputer?"


    Yelena couldn''t understand what Calista was trying to do, and because she was so nervous, she went along with Calista and said, "Sometimes my phone..."


    "Ok, take your phone out now and check. If you can show that one of your recipients is my name and my bank ount number, I''ll take it that you''ve transferred money to me before."


    Yelena was stunned by this attack! She quickly hid her phone away and said, "I...I always remove the recipient after transferring..."


    "So you have to get my ount number from me every month? I''ll ask you another question then - which bank do I use? Surely you know this?"


    Yelena''s face was white as a sheet. She''d never transferred Calista any money before, how was she to know?


    Calista smiled as she looked at Benedict, "Dad, you know something? Yelena has never given me a single cent, all the clothes I have are made from cheap fabrics that she bought, she puts in money directly into my school canteen card and it isn''t even enough money for me to eat. You always say that I dress like an old person, hoho, that''s because that''s all I have to wear. When I ask her for money, she says that the Staffords are surviving because of her, and since I live in her house and eat her food, how dare I ask her for money! Dad, are you so poor that you can''t afford to feed your daughter?"


    Benedict''s face turned extremely nasty. He had given so much money to Yelena every month for her to spend on the family, and Yelena had even said that most of it was spent by Callie... "No...No that''s not true! Benedict, Callie is the one who likes those ugly clothes..."


    Yelena became paler the more she tried to exin herself, and everyone was beginning to stare holes into her. Even the two friends who spoke up for her earlier realized something was very wrong and took a step back. Unfortunately for Yelena, the host of the party was Wyatt, the other Langleys were still getting changed, and the wonderful stepmother image she had built for herself over all these years was about to bepletely destroyed today!


    "Anything else? What else did Yelena say? Can someone tell me about something I''ve done that I didn''t even know about?"


    Now even Benedict didn''t stop her. He too, wanted to see how Yelena viewed the Staffords and how she truly treated Callie!


    A youngdy felt that Calista was simply amazing, so she walked up and spoke loudly, "Mrs. Stafford said that you''ve always been good at lying since you were young, and that you always hung out with boys and got a boyfriend very young, and told me not to learn from you..." Before she could finish, the youngdy''s mother pulled her back and looked ufortably at Calista.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Interesting," Calista looked back at Yelena. "Lying? What lies did I say? When, where and what? Besides you and Quincy, who else can prove it? I have a boyfriend? What''s his name? How old is he? What does he look like? How hrious that I don''t know this myself!" Yelena''s mind was spinning from the barrage of questions from Calista and she didn''t know how to reply at all.


    She wanted to scream at Calista, but if she did, then her image would be in tatters! Where were the rest of the Langleys? And why wasn''t this stupid Wyatt doing anything to stop Calista?!


    "And then? Anything else?"


    Calista asked as if she had nothing to lose, as if her stepmother had pushed her over the edge and she was now afraid of nothing!


    Among the crowd, someone said in


    a low voice, "Yelena said that you''re


    not your father''s biological daughter!" This was spoken by a voluptuous woman. "She said your biological mother, Yvette


    someone else but then suddenly had a shotgun wedding with your father, and for all you know, Yvette was pregnant with someone else''s child and because the father of the child didn''t want her, she decided to marry down to a Stafford."


    Yeager, was in love withtte hap


    "What?!" Benedict red angrily at Yelena. He had never thought that Yelena had said something like this - the Staffords had been disgraced such a long time ago!


    "Hoho..." Calistaughed hollowly, and a cold glint shed in her eyes. "Come to think of it, Dad has a negative blood type, right?"


    She looked at Benedict and said,


    "Five years ago Dad met with a car


    ident and needed a blood transfusion very urgently. My younger sister was afraid of pain, so I was the one who donated blood to him. Mrs. Stafford, did you think many people have a negative blood type, or that other people are stupid? In the past I was very timid and I thought you would let me off if I listened to you. But to think that you''ve made me suffer at home, and even smeared my reputation outside of the house was just unbearable."

 Chapter 82 Tearing Up The Contract

    Calista''s words left Yelena battered all over - every statement from Calista was peeling ayer of skin off her face, making her face sting with pain, and she really wanted to hide herself in a hole now. "Such audacity!" Matthew heard the report from his servant and ran over to the main hall even though he wasn''t done changing. Rage was written all over his face.


    "Do you think I''m dead? How dare you say such things in my own house!"


    Matthew was followed closely by Hans, who lifted his hand to p Wyatt, but didn''t p him in the end.


    "What''s wrong with you? You let someone bully your aunt like that?!"


    Wyatt had seen enough to know what sort of person Yelena really was, and suddenly he felt deep disappointment in his family. His expression grewplex as he asked in a soft voice, "Isn''t Calista my cousin?" What cr*p cousin is this! Hans wanted to shout this at his son, but since there were so many people watching, he gave a deep scowl but did not say anything in response.


    Yelena saw that her father and brother were here, so she quickly put on a pitiful face and ran to hide behind them. There was a strange expression on the guests'' faces - Calista had silenced Yelena with just a few words, and it didn''t take a genius to know who was lying and who the real victim was. But now Yelena was still trying to act pitiful, putting on a great act to fool everyone.


    Benedict pulled Calista behind him. He used to haveplete trust in Yelena because he had felt guilty towards her and was grateful to the Langleys for helping him, but that didn''t mean he could allow Yelena to bully his daughter! Or allow the Langleys to humiliate the Staffords like this! He hadn''t married into the Langley family for crying out loud!


    Matthew threw a nasty stare at Calista, and then smiled coldly at Benedict.


    "Benedict, it''s ok if your daughter is just behaving immaturely since she''s young, I won''t chide her over it. But now she''s actually hit someone in public, so who knows, she might murder someone next? You''d better leave her here for the Langleys to teach her how to behave!"Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Benedict ignored this statement, instead he asked, "Is what Callie said true? If she doesn''t listen to you, then you''d bankrupt the Staffords?"


    He had agreed to anything the Langleys asked out of gratitude, but not to be threatened or humiliated! He could ept not getting a divorce, but he would not tolerate others stepping all over the Staffords.


    Matthew''s face tensed up and he used his walking stick to pound the floor.


    "Nonsense! Why would I have said anything like that? This child must be lying!"


    Calista lifted her exquisite face and immediately retorted.


    "Then can you swear that the Langleys will never do the Staffords any harm for as long as you''re alive? And that if you break your promise, then all the Langleys will die horribly?"


    "You''re outrageous!" Matthew became furious upon hearing this, pounding the walking stick even harder.


    Hans couldn''t stand it at all, and tried to p Calista immediately.


    Calista dodged his hand easily, and continued in a cold voice, "The Staffords slipped into a financial crisis under very suspicious circumstances, but since that happened so long ago I''ll not talk about it. Let''s talk about what happened after the Langleys came out to help the Staffords my father tried to return the money he borrowed from you but you didn''t want cash. Why did you insist on taking half of my father''s shares instead?


    So in this way you could get half the interest without doing anything? The Langleys say that they are charitable and loyal, but all of you are obviously leeches seizing the opportunity to suck us dry! My father agreed to your ridiculous request out of gratitude towards your family, but aren''t you afraid that someone would eventually expose all your dirty deeds? Or are the Langleys so poor that they have to rely on a son-inw to survive?"


    Matthew nearly spat blood out in front of all the friends and family of the Langleys. Calista''s words were capable of murder, stabbing exactly where it hurt the most.


    None of the guests expected that this was really what happened when the Langleys helped the Staffords back then, that they had asked for so much in return for their help. And only someone as easily bullied as Benedict would have agreed. Nobody else would have agreed to as much as half of their shares!


    Benedict didn''t know how to respond either. His personality was kind and weak, and he felt obligated to take care of Yelena for the rest of her life since she had helped him so much, let alone the fact that he had destroyed the rest of her life with his one act of drunkenness. So after the Langleys pressed him hard, he agreed in the heat of the moment.


    When he thought about it, he must have been really...


    "Nothing to say to that? It''s a bit


    difficult to investigate the issue with the medical drugs my family sold back then since it''s already been eighteen years. But since you can


    say so easily that you want to


    bankrupt the Staffords, coul@it be that you already did that back then? Looks like I have to get my fianc¨¦ to check this for me!"


    Calista smiled viciously before spitting out thatst sentence, causing all the Langleys'' expressions to change immediately.


    Calista was threatening them now,


    and they were sure she must have found out something, or otherwise she wouldn''t be saying such things. It wasn''t really that hard to find out about that incident where they had swapped the Staffords'' drugs for problematic ones and even if the Staffords couldn''t get to the bottom of the matter, it didn''t mean the


    ¡ª


    Fairchilds couldn''t.


    Matthew realized that everyone had reached the same conclusion, so he quickly decided to settle it and said, "Go get the contract! The one about the Staffordpany shares!"


    Everyone was shocked - he was going to take the contract out already?


    It wasn''t because Matthew was nervous, but that Calista was simply too brilliant.


    First she made a scene and caused everyone to lose faith in Yelena. Then she started talking about the selling of shares so that everyone would think that the Langleys were a shady family that took advantage of others.


    Lastly, she threatened them with what happened eighteen years ago. Kallum was now interested in her, so if he interfered with this matter and confirmed everything the Langleys did back then, the Langleys were in danger of losing their reputation.


    So it was better that he took out the contract now and appeased Calista, since there was no point in pursuing this matter further. This way the Langleys could avoid the terrible possibility of their reputation going down the drain. Indeed, Matthew was a very decisive man, even if it meant that he had to be at a disadvantage sometimes.


    Hans was indignant, but he knew that they were up against a formidable enemy, so after some thought, he eventually went to get the contract.


    Calista seemed rash at first, but she had actually had it all nned out! He had underestimated her.


    Everyone exchanged nces, as if they were wondering if the Langleys were really generous enough to give up these shares.


    After the contract was brought to


    him, Matthew exined, "I wanted those shares from your family because was afraid that Benedict might mistreat my daughter, and intended to return the shares once Quincy had grown up! I didn''t expect you to demand them from me now, but since you want them, you can have them back!"


    Benedict started feeling anxious. The Langleys took out the contract so easily and didn''t seem to care, and it made him feel guilty - was he being petty now?


    But then Calista unexpectedly walked out and took out a copy of the same contract from her handbag - she was already prepared!


    "Alright then. I, Calista, would like everyone here to be our witness! These two original copies of the contract will be torn right now, and the contract is considered invalid!"


    Benedict was shocked! How did Callie know the passcode to his safe? How did she get her hands on this contract?


    But regardless of how shocked he was, or how indignant and stunned the Langleys were, the moment Calista tore up the contracts in front of everybody, it meant that this was a done deal.


    And this wasn''t the end. After tearing up the contracts, Calista took out another contract from her bag with the words ''Agreement for Transfer of Shares'' written right on the front, and all the Langleys could see these words very clearly. "So as to avoid future disputes, I will need the head of the Langleys to sign right here."


    Calista even took out a pen for Matthew to use.


    Matthew was now pushed to the edge. He narrowed his eyes and looked at her murderously.


    "Youngdy, you''ve just gained the upper hand and you''re not going to show any pity? Aren''t you afraid that you might be left with nothing someday? You still want to go up against your inws?"

 Chapter 83 Who Dares To Touch My Woman

    At this point, Benedict didn''t know what to think anymore. On one hand, he hoped Matthew would sign the document, but on the other hand, he was afraid that others would think he was being ungrateful. Calista''s stand remained strong.


    She smiled calmly, and everyone could see that she was now standing straight and politely, with no trace of the viciousness and violence she disyed earlier. Her eyes that sparkled like the stars seemed to have been infused with infinite intelligence, and now she looked especially confident.


    "Mr. Langley, just sign it," she raised an eyebrow, "Who knows anything about the future?"


    She was obviously threatening him if he listened to her, then she would just take back the shares and not pursue the past anymore. If he didn''t, then she would get the Fairchilds to investigate, and once that was done, the Langleys didn''t just have to return the shares but would also have their name sullied! For a family like the Langleys, who valued reputation above all else, this was a fatal blow.


    Hans wanted to make a scene but Matthew threw him a nce, so he stood back and red nastily at Calista.


    Calista used both hands to bring the contract to Matthew and made eye contact with Matthew. As she looked straight at him, Matthew felt like there were daggers inside her eyes, and he could feel like those daggers were stabbing right into his skin. Matthew''s heart immediately froze and he bent down to sign the contract without even reading any of the uses.


    Calista was satisfied with this response and she put the contract back into her bag. She could let Benedict sign the contract after they went home.


    A small quarrel had turned into a transfer of shares - many people realized that Calista was no simple woman after they thought through the series of events that led to this.


    Yelena knew she was in deep trouble now. She had made the Langleys give up the delicious meat that they had eaten, and Matthew wasn''t going to let her off easily.


    Matthew had a very nasty expression on his face as he looked at Benedict and said, "Your daughter is really impressive! I had good intentions, since these shares would give me a reason to help the Staffords if your business ran into any trouble. I wanted to return the shares in the future, but you think we were trying to take advantage of your family? If I really wanted to take advantage of you, I wouldn''t return these shares so easily! You two will really be...really be the death of me!"


    Benedict looked embarrassed by all this and didn''t dare to say anything. He was feeling a little guilty, but at the same time he was relieved that the shares had been returned. Now he didn''t have to bear with the Langleys all the time anymore, and he was able to stand more confidently.


    But some of the Langleys'' rtives felt that they should say something.


    "Benedict, I really didn''t want to say this, but the Langleys are such a big corporation, why would they eye that tiny bit of benefit from you? Without these shares, the Langleys would have no reason to help you if anything happens to your business, you know? I hope you don''t regret this!"


    These inws of the Langleys were such petty people.


    Calistaughed - so they were wrong in taking the shares back? Her father had wanted to return them in cash but they didn''t want to ept it, asking for so many shares instead. The shareholder interest that her father had paid out over these years to them had already exceeded the amount they originally loaned him, so it was obvious who had really benefitted from this entire transaction.


    Someone else chipped in, "You Staffords are really heartless. Even if you''ve regretted transferring these shares, you didn''t have to ruin a celebration party like that. The Langleys allowed you to marry their daughter but..."


    Matthew used his walking stick to hit the floor again so as to shut them up. Benedict looked ufortable, but Calista was still smiling happily, so it was obvious that nothing they said was working. Looks like he had to find a hitman to kill her offter, so that Calista wouldn''t actually get the Fairchilds to investigate further.


    "We will not talk about the shares now..." He had said this with a calm voice, but he was furious in his heart. Benedict owned a pharmaceuticalpany and the yearly shareholder interest was a lot of money! But no matter what he said, everyone here could see clearly who was truly benefitting from the shares, so he had to quickly hand the contract over to minimize the damage to his reputation and to make people think that he didn''t care for that money and was a magnanimous person.


    He suppressed the anger boiling inside and continued speaking, "Benedict, forget about the shares, that''s just a small matter. But Calista has hit her stepmother, everyone here is a witness! One of my family members has been hit just like that, so how do you intend to settle this?"This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Before Benedict could respond, Calista asked, "What do you want?"


    Hans snorted and said in a loud voice, "My father is saying, you can forget about leaving this ce today! You shall stay here for a month, and the Langleys will take this time to educate you! Even though you Staffords have been hical and ungrateful, my father is a kind man and doesn''t want to see you continue down the path of wrongdoing! That''s why he''s actually taking the effort to teach you!"


    He then clenched his teeth and looked towards Benedict, "Benedict, this is for the sake of your family''s future! Don''t tell me you''re not agreeable?"


    Benedict was still feeling a little guilty about taking the shares back and wanted to say yes, but he knew deep down in his heart that the Langleys were a nasty bunch, and if Callie stayed in this house for a month... "And if I say no?"


    Calista was smiling broadly. She had fought and quarreled today already, so there was nothing she didn''t dare to say anymore.


    "Calista! Don''t you know what''s good for you? You''re still so arrogant after hitting a person - do you want me to send you to the police station?"


    You don''t say - didn''t Wyatt represent the police?


    Calista nced at Wyatt, who looked at her with mixed feelings, and she shook her head.


    "Didn''t Yelena tell you that I have a mental problem?"


    Calista pointed at her own head while saying this, and then suddenly pulled the table cloth next to her hard! All the food and beverages on the table shattered to the floor.


    Calista was on a roll now, and sheughed coldly as she said, "It''s not a crime for crazy people tomit murder you know? You Langleys are really not afraid to die!"


    Matthew was so angry that his face waspletely pale. He clutched his chest and nearly copsed. After being alive for so many years, this was the first time he had seen someone as bold, wild and


    ov


    audacious as Calista.


    "You bloody b*stards! What are you standing there for? Calista''s gone mad, hold her down now!"


    Hans roared with bloodshot eyes as


    §Ö


    he rushed to support his father. He had already thought of how he was going torture Calista for the next month. With such a pretty face, she was perfect for him to send offto his lecherous friends for a taste! He wanted to see if she could still be so bold after that, and whether Kallum would still want her after that!


    Of course, Calista knew what Hans was thinking. She wasn''t afraid of staying in the Langley residence, because at most they''d all die together - no matter what, she was going to give the Langleys a hard time!


    When she saw someone catching


    ??? ?


    up with her, Calista pulled another table cloth off and flung it over, sending gasps and screams throughout the hall. The guests all quickly ran to the side, looking at Calista as if she had really gone crazy.


    Benedict was frightened by all this, but he was afraid the Langleys might hurt Calista, so he quickly stood up to stop them.


    "Father, Callie really has some mental issues. Please don''t hurt her, I''ll take her home right now!"


    But Matthew had no more pity left in him and didn''t say a word. In order to prevent Calista from making trouble again, they had to keep Calista here and discipline her. The Langleys were best at torturing others. When he saw that none of the servants were able to even get close to her, a fierce look shed in Hans'' eyes as he walked towards Calista withrge strides.


    "I don''t care if you''re sick in the head or not! You''ve made my father so angry he nearly vomited blood, so I have to teach you a lesson!"


    He ignored Benedict''s attempts to block him and wanted to rush forward and p Calista to get back on behalf of Yelena.


    Suddenly the main door opened once more, and when Kallum saw what was happening, his smiling face suddenly became serious. In an instant, it was as if the main hall had caught fire. "Let me see who dares to touch my woman!"

 Chapter 84 The Greatest Humiliation Of The Langleys

    Everyone was caught by surprise.


    Was that Mr. Kallum? He was somebody who didn''t even attend his own family''s functions, so what was he doing at the Langleys?


    Even Calista was surprised. Wasn''t Kallum very busy? What was he doing here?


    Hans dare not p Calista in front of Kallum.


    Kallum walked towards him withrge strides, pushing himself between both of them and pulled Calista into his arms, and stared at Hans with unfriendliness in his eyes. "Why? You want to hit her? Do you know who she is?"


    Kallum''s intimidating presence enabled the four men who came in with him to re fiercely at Hans, all of them ready to kill, and the temperature in the hall hit freezing point.


    Hans meekly took his hand back quickly. There was no more of thatmanding and arrogant attitude that he had earlier in front of Benedict. Hans'' face had now gone pale and didn''t dare to say anything. Instead, Matthew was the first one to snap out of his shock and replied respectfully, "I see Mr. Kallum hase, I apologize for this mess. Earlier was...a misunderstanding. Callie and my daughter, Yelena, had some argument and Callie pped Yelena twice, so in a fit of anger, my son..."


    As he spoke, Matthew turned to one side slightly, and Yelena quickly went in front to show her red and swollen cheek.


    Kallum snorted. "So the Langleys were ready to hit someone precious to me over an illegitimate daughter? How bold!"


    Matthew''s smile froze on his face. Nobody ever dared to actually say out loud that Yelena was his illegitimate daughter, but there was nothing he could do about it - the person saying this was Kallum, and he represented the entire Fairchild family.


    Matthew was so angry that he wanted to vomit blood out, but he had to swallow it right back. He went silent for a few moments, then suddenly reached out and gave Hans a tight p! This p was so fierce and with such great force that Hans'' face was turned to one side from the impact.


    "Dad!" Hans looked at Matthew with disbelief. But when he met Kallum''s murderous look, he suppressed the anger in him.


    "Don''t you dare call me Dad! How many times must I say that the Langley family is a family that has high moral values and we value being reasonable! Callie is still young, but despite being an elder, you are picking a fight with her - aren''t you embarrassed? Apologize to Callie now!"


    Hans could barely believe his ears. Calista had hit his sister but he had to apologize to her? What sort of logic was this?


    Calista smiled as she saw how Matthew was able to hold his anger in and grovel at others'' feet, and she was sincerely impressed. With this ability to change his attitude depending on the situation, it was little wonder how the Langleys had remained such a strong family after so many years.


    Matthew was really able to hold his anger in when needed, but he was also more vicious than others when necessary.


    Calista touched her face and smiled gently. In her previous life, Matthew had hired someone to make many slits on her face because he was afraid she would use her beauty to her advantage. Even after she had healed up, there were still several scars left on her face. The pain and despair she felt as she was being disfigured - she would remember it for life!


    Hans shrank back under Matthew''s fierce re, and he finally bent his high and mighty head in front of everyone and clenched his teeth as he said to Calista, "I''m sorry...Callie, I was wrong."


    Calista was held in Kallum''s embrace and didn''t say anything until she heard murmurs among the onlookers and Hans'' face was burning from holding his anger in. Then she asked mockingly, "What did you say? I didn''t hear you clearly."


    "You!" Hans looked up and his knuckles cracked from being clenched so hard. If Kallum wasn''t here, he would have bashed her up long ago! Didn''t Calista understand how to leave a bit of breathing space? Wasn''t she afraid that she won''t be shown any pity if she was in trouble?!


    In any case, he was never going to forget the humiliation he had suffered that very day.


    "I''m sorry! I want to apologize to you because I shouldn''t have wanted to hit you! You got that?" Hans said in a loud voice, his eyes burning holes into Calista.


    Kallum cast a disdainful nce at him. "Looks like you still have grievances towards my fianc¨¦e here."


    This simple statement made


    Matthew''s expression change instantly. He quickly pulled Hans aside with his walking stick, red hard at Hans, before turning back to talk to Kallum very sincerely, "This is a misunderstanding! Hans was angry about something else earlier


    already, and since he was young he


    had trouble controlling his anger. I''ll discipline himter, and I hope Mr. Kallum doesn''t take this to heart."


    Hans wanted to retort, but his wife, Joanna, quickly dragged him to one side. They would be in deep trouble if he offended Kallum again.


    Calistaughed as she asked in a cold and distant voice, "The next head of the Langley family can''t even control his own temper, and the Langleys still want to educate me? And you still want me to stay in this house to be educated for an entire month?"This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Matthew obviously didn''t dare to


    insist on this matter anymore. His face trembled a little before he clenched his teeth into a smile and said, "Oh no no, that was just a joke. Callie is so obedient, you don''t need us to teach you anything. I just wanted to invite you over to our ce to have fun and spend some quality time together, since we''re


    inws after all."


    Everyone was impressed by how thick-skinned Matthew was. He was wearing a hypocritical smile and lying through his teeth. If Kallum hadn''t appeared, Calista would definitely have been forced to stay. Given what happened earlier, these two families couldn''t remain as inws, and were going to be enemies instead. Calistaughed coldly but didn''t continue making things difficult. She was going to w back everything that the Langleys owed her and her family - today was only the beginning.


    "If that''s the reason then forget it. I don''t like going out and I feel morefortable at home."


    Matthewughed along with her, but only he knew what he was really thinking about.


    Kallum looked at the mess on the floor and frowned. He hade to back Callie up, to tell the Langleys who was supporting Callie! But he was no longer interested in doing this, and just wanted to bring her out from this house.


    "That''s enough for today, but I hope you will remember that Calista is one of mine. Before any of you cross her, you''d better think about whether you''re able to first."


    Kallum scanned the hall with his pair of bright and beautiful almond shaped eyes, ready to kill. Nobody dared to look him in the eye, but everyone understood what he had said.


    Quintus was standing behind Kallum and wiping his sweat. After Mr. Kallum had fallen for Ms. Calista, he was making enemies everywhere he went. Even though these people were nothing to worry about, he didn''t have to spoil Ms. Calista like that! It would get to her head! Kallum waited until there was absolute silence in the hall before he snorted satisfactorily and walked out of the main door with Calista and his bodyguards.


    Benedict knew it would be awkward for him to stay, so he quickly took his leave after Kallum had left.


    After these people had left, there was a tense atmosphere left in the hall. Every member of the Langley family looked terrible - this must be the greatest humiliation the Langleys had ever suffered in all these years!


    Matthew was silent for a while, and


    then pointed a finger at Wyatt, his face deathly pale, "You! Go to the ancestral hall and kneel before your ancestors, and you''re not getting up until you know what you''ve done wrong!" The Langleys were a traditional family that maintained an ancestral hall, but this was the first


    time Wyatt was told to kneel in the hall.

 Chapter 85 Exposed On The Spot

    Wyatt didn''t say anything and walked off quietly. He needed to think very carefully about what sort of people his family really was.


    When the children saw that their father was this furious, they quickly called others over to help to clean up the mess and cate the guests. After some time, the main hall went back to its original state, but all the guests were still a little tense. There was almost no excitement throughout the party, and many left soon after. After the party ended, Matthew suddenly fell ill and was sent straight to the hospital.


    This was the first time the Langleys had suffered such humiliation, but they could only clench their teeth and swallow their words, so it was little wonder that even a formidable man like Matthew couldn''t take it and copsed.


    Calista was feeling pretty good after receiving news of his copse, and didn''t even mind the sight of Kallum. If he hadn''t appeared, she was prepared to destroy everybody in the Langley residence along with herself in the month she was supposed to spend there. But Kallum had unexpectedly appeared and she felt warmth in her heart.


    "Thanks for doing this," Calista thanked him very sincerely. She didn''t want to have any further entanglement with Kallum, but it seemed like she was deeply entangled with him already. She had used her status as his fianc¨¦e to gain leverage several times already. If she could turn the fianc¨¦e status into goddaughter status, that would be best. If that deal was still on, then she could unt her goddaughter status anytime - the only thing she had to do in return was to earn money for him anyway. Unfortunately, he said that he was in love with her. Kallum couldn''t resist a smile when he realized that he had made the right move this time and he was in a good mood. "You''re my fianc¨¦e, so you don''t have to say thank you!"


    Calista was about to say something when Kallum suddenly dragged her into the car. "Come along! I''ll bring you somewhere!"


    Kallum brought her to Havenrock Vi and Calista still had no idea what he was trying to do. He turned on the television and pulled her to sit on the sofa.


    So all he wanted to do was toe back and watch TV?


    Calista had a confused look on her face and wanted to ask, but then she heard Kallum''s distant voice from above her head, "Didn''t you say Mirabelle giarized Xandra''s idea? I found Xandra."


    Calista focused her eyes and stared at the scene of a noisy live concert on the TV screen. The screen was so huge, she felt like she was at the arena watching it live.


    This was Mirabelle''s concert stage...


    "What...did you do?"


    To Calista, Kallum had always favored Mirabelle because he thought she had saved him back when he was drowning. But since too many years had passed, Kallum couldn''t prove who really saved him back then, and so logically, he should not have taken any action against Mirabelle.


    Kallum replied in a low voice, "Perhaps you were right."


    ""What?"


    "Mirabelle - she''s a cruel and vicious woman alright. I''ve met with Xandra, and it''s really unbelievable, but he was fed poison by Mirabelle herself so that he would not be able to speak anymore."


    His eyes carried a lot of conflicting emotions as he continued, "If she could poison a person and steal his ideas, why would someone like that risk her life to save me?"


    Calista smiled a little but didn''t say anything and continued to watch the screen.


    So Kallum had dragged her here to watch a good show that he had prepared beforehand?


    Mirabelle''s demure face appeared on the screen and Calista started feeling deep difort. She started fidgeting from her uneasiness, so Kallum pulled her into his arms. Even though she was being held like this, Calista still felt cold and uneasy - this was the woman she was once most envious of, and eventually hated deeply.


    Her voice and face were a nightmare to Calista.


    "I would like to thank everyone here foring, and as usual, I will be dancing the main dance for tonight, ''Waterfront Serenade"."


    Her gentle voice agitated Calista''s brain through the screen, but the audience onscreen were cheering and shouting loudly, saying that Mirabelle was like a fairy from their dreams, and her beauty wasparable only to fairies that appeared in their dreams.


    After waving the long white sleeves of her dance costumes, Mirabelle then continued, "I wanted toplete 45 shows, but unfortunately my leg is acting up again, so we had to cancel thest show, and today will be the final show of this tour. Everyone with a ticket can get a refund, and I will bear all the losses. This dance is the dance that made me famous and it will also serve as an apology to all those who will miss the cancelled show. I''m so sorry to all my fans."


    Mirabelle elegantly bowed in apology, and the pain, regret and suffering in her eyes were clearly seen through the camera, revealing a beauty in her fragility.


    But Calista only understood one message from her speech.


    Mirabelle wasing back, and she wasing back earlier than originally scheduled.


    Kallum felt her entire body was shivering and quickly hugged her tighter. His heart began to feel uneasy - did he do something wrong?


    "What''s wrong? Are you scared?"


    Calista gripped her hands tightly then released them. "No, I''m very excited!"


    Excited?


    Calista suddenly looked up at Kallum''s handsome face and slowly broke into a smile, "What is it you want me to see?"


    Kallum looked down at her and replied seriously, "Mirabelle had the guts to cause harm to someone and even giarized another person''s idea, so I want the world to know what sort of person she really is."


    Calista raised an eyebrow as she asked, "You used to do anything Mirabelle asked of you. And now you''re going to destroy her with your own hands?"


    Kallum frowned deeply. Calista''s reaction was not what he had expected at all.


    He had been nice to Mirabelle because he thought she saved him. Now that he was sure that Mirabelle had tricked him, he was going to punish her for her mistakes before she did anything worse - why wasn''t Calista happy at all?


    But Calista had already turned back to watch the show. The music started and Mirabelle started dancing. Her dance steps were light, her body flexible and her expressions demure, capturing the audience right from the start of the dance. The huge screen behind her was originally a photo of the old streets of Pegasustown that the dance was based on, but suddenly the screen switched to footage of a man who was dancing gracefully, and he was also dancing ''Waterfront Serenade''!


    Initially Mirabelle didn''t notice anything wrong or hear what the audience was whispering about, and only stopped when she heard talkinging from the screen behind her. The moment she turned around, she


    got a shock of her life.


    "Mirabelle, do you think I''ll get an award for this? I''ve spent five or six years choreographing this dance and it seems perfect to me, but I''m afraid I''m just overestimating myself."


    The Mirabelle in the video smiled coldly as she said, "I''m sure this dance of yours will be very popr! But I have a request and I''m not sure if you''d agree to it."


    Mirabelle waspletely stunned. This...this was the scene where she threatened Xandra! Why was there video footage of this?!


    "Turn it off! Quickly turn it off!"


    The audience had no idea what was happening, but they could hear a shrill voiceing from Mirabelle that they''d never heard before, while the production crew was breaking out in cold sweat from anxiety. "We can''t, the main system has been hacked into and we can''t turn it off!"


    The man and woman in the video continued.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Xandra had a strange expression on his face. "What request? You''ve helped me so much, so I will agree to anything within my ability."


    Mirabelle shed a smile at Xandra.


    "It''s definitely within your ability. My request is simple - sell me this dance!"


    Xandra had a shocked look on his face.


    "No I can''t! This is the fruit of many years ofbor and I intend to use it to attain my dreams, so I can''t agree to this!"


    Mirabelle''s face darkened as she snorted, "And you think you have a choice? I..."


    Before the sentence finished, there was suddenly a loud crash! Mirabelle had flung a speaker at the screen to smash it!

 Chapter 86 No Strength To Defend

    The screen immediately turned dark and the most d*mning part of the conversation was not yed. But this bit of exchange was enough to throw Mirabelle into an abyss.


    But Mirabelle was very certain that since whoever did this had a copy of this video, so he wasn''t going to stop here. Her expression became extremely nasty. Who could have done this? Who actually dared to do such a thing? Wasn''t he afraid that that the Fairchilds would go after him? Who in this city didn''t know how well Kallum treated her!


    Meanwhile, there was an uproar in the crowd.


    "Isn''t it strange? I thought Mirabelle''s famous dance was her own creation? This dance won more than ten awards at the prestigious Red Sleeves Awards and she became famous overnight for it. But ording to what we just watched, this dance belongs to someone else?"


    "And Mirabelle tried to buy it but the other party refused to sell. So how did Mirabelle get this dance?"


    "She''s a liar! All that talk about her being the youngest and most talented dancer is all garbage! She''s really a thief!"


    "Who was the guy in the video? Call him out to exin things!"


    There was more and more murmuring among the crowd and it became noisier and noisier. Calista saw how Mirabelle looked on with a pale and helpless face, and she began to slowly let go of her tightly clutched hands.


    There was no point in watching the rest, so Calista turned the TV off and asked Kallum, "So where''s Xandra? You said you met him, so give him to me."


    Kallum couldn''t figure out what Calista was thinking at all. Was she happy or not? If she was happy, why did she still look so distant? Wasn''t revealing Mirabelle''s true colors the oue Calista wanted?


    But Kallum only replied in a low voice, "He asked me to make sure justice was served, and he left after I agreed."


    This was the truth. Kallum wasn''t sending a fairly good looking man over to Calista, even if he was mute. Anyway he had already arranged a safe ce for Xandra, so he wouldn''t suffer anymore.


    Calista remained silent for a while, then she stood up. "That was a very good show, thanks for the hospitality, Mr. Kallum. I have to get going."


    "Calista!"


    Kallum suddenly grabbed Calista''s hand. "Are you happy now? Or angry?"


    Calista narrowed her sparkly eyes and tilted her head as she looked at him. "Is whether I''m happy or not important?"


    "Very!"


    "Fine, I''m very happy, so please let go."


    "No!" Kallum''s eyebrows were tightly knit as he repeatedly opened his mouth then closed his thin lips again, and it was obvious that he was struggling in his heart.


    "What are you unhappy about? The look in your eyes tell me that you''re resisting me!"


    Calista heard this and violently tried to pull her hand free.


    "Resisting? That''s a pretty appropriate word to use. Actually I like what I saw, but then I feel that...you are very scary!"


    "I''m scary?"


    Kallum felt like an arrow had been shot through his heart. It was suffocating and it ached. He wanted to be angry, but could only suppress it with all his might.


    Calista smiled coldly. "Aren''t you? You love to the extreme and you hate to the extreme. If one day you lose interest in me, or you''re tired of me, are you also going to throw me into the depths of hell like that?" This was distorting the truth!


    Kallum clenched his teeth. "I won''t do something like that to you! I..."


    "Don''t say you like me!"


    Calista''s gaze suddenly became intense, and in that instant, Kallum finally saw the rage that she had been hiding all along.


    "So what if one day you find that the person who tricked you was me, you realize you''ve trusted the wrong person, you find out that the person who saved you back then was really Mirabelle - what would you do?"


    Calista answered her own question before Kallum could. "You would be frustrated to the point of fury? You would make my life a living hell? Mr. Kallum, you are a person who can do absolutely anything you want, so it''s really dangerous to be by your side, and it frightens me!" With that, she finally broke free from Kallum''s grip and headed towards the door when Kallum suddenly shouted.


    "I won''t!"


    Calista stopped.


    "Even if you lie to me! Even if you use me! Even if you are immoral or vicious, I will still like you! I just do! You know very well that I would never hurt you. What are you running away from?"


    Calista was about to move when Kallum suddenly hugged her from the back.


    "I''ve never liked anyone before, and I have no idea what I should be doing, but I just like you! You don''t have to ept it, but you shouldn''t doubt me!"


    Calista pursed her lips together and didn''t say anything.


    "Give me a chance? Or do you have a better person in mind? You have so many enemies, and I''m the only one who can protect you." Everything Kallum said was true.


    He was still investigating the link between Yelena and the Wolfords, and the Wolfords would eventually go up against the Staffords. The Staffords couldn''t even go against the Langleys, so how could they fight against the Wolfords? Only he, Kallum, would be able to protect her without regrets, and do anything for her!


    "Even if I make use of you, you''re willing?"


    Calista slowly calmed down, and her low and hoarse response made Kallum''s heart leap for joy.


    "I''m willing!"


    He was sure that Calista would be moved by him, so there was no way he wasn''t willing.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    His immediate response froze Calista on the spot. She really couldn''t understand how Kallum could like her so much in such a short time.


    "I have to think about it."


    Kallum''s eyes opened wider. He hadn''t expected Calista to give in- this was a pleasant surprise.


    He turned Calista to face him, his eyes shining as he said, "I''ll give you time! In fact, I have to go away on a business trip, so I''ll wait for your good news after I return?"


    Calista finally sighed.


    She had been cold, angry and thorny toward Kallum, but he was still so passionate towards her, as if he hadn''t seen any of this.


    Sometimes she felt like she couldn''t do anything to defend herself...when someone was determined to be with you with all his heart and mind, his warmth might really melt a cier.


    Kallum took the chance to pinch her face and his lips curled in to a smile. "Silence means consent!"


    Calista pped his hand away and red at him. "We''ll talk when you''re back!"


    It was hard to imagine that there were times when she hesitated.


    Kallum behaved like she had agreed, his eyes smiling, and even the mole at the corner of his left eye was shining brightly. From her previous life till now, Calista had never seen Kallum like this. He used to be arrogant and cold, but now he was smiling so brightly in front of her.


    On the other side, Mirabelle was on the verge of going mad.


    She was still angry even after


    thrashing the entire backstage area. She couldn''t believe something like that could happen after that perfect thank you speech and final dance item. The image that she had built up so painstakingly over the years was now destroyed.


    "Have you found out anything? Who the hell did this?! I want him to die horribly!"


    Mirabelle had a threatening look on her face now, and it was theplete opposite of the gentle look that she had earlier on stage.


    A crew member wiped his sweat as he replied, "The hacker is too powerful, I...I can''t get to the source!"


    "You''re useless!"


    Mirabelle sat down on a chair, breathing hard. Then she quickly gave instructions, "Keep close tabs on the inte - if any videos of this leaks, shut it down immediately, got it?!"


    A woman next to her said


    let any videos leak onto the web, so don''t be upset anymore. Don''t forget, dancing is just to pass time, and ultimately you''ll be the


    aw of the Fairchilds, so


    you have to hold it in!"

 Chapter 87 The Viciousness Of Mirabelle

    Mirabelle listened to the words of this woman next to her.


    What she said was true - for daughters from wealthy families like Mirabelle, bing famous was just to pass time, and it didn''t really matter whether she was sessful or not. The most important thing was to marry into a good family, because that would set her for life. But Mirabelle valued reputation above all, so this time she was determined to maintain her reputation no matter what it took! Whether she could still dance anymore was not important.


    Mirabelle suddenly shot a nce at the woman next to her.


    "Ms. Quimby, today''s matter...I think it''s impossible to keep it under wraps. Thetter part of that video ends with me threatening Xandra, and if that partnds in the hands of my rivals, they''ll use it to threaten me and I''ll never be able to appear on stage again." When she suddenly gently called her ''Ms. Quimby'', Harper Quimby felt her chest tighten, and she was suddenly fearful.


    She forced a smile. "Don''t worry, we will keep a close eye on things. If you want to hide this, we''ll make sure it happens!"


    "Impossible. After what happened today, I have no more future as a dancer." A cold glint shed in Mirabelle''s eyes. It was a pity, but not uneptable.


    "Xandra hates me to the core, and even though I don''t know how why he has this footage, someone is helping him now. With such a good opportunity, he won''t let me off so easily, so I must strike before he does..."


    "You...you''re thinking of...?"


    Harper immediately regretted asking.


    Mirabelle looked at her and smiled gently, "Ms. Quimby, you''ve been with me for so many years and you treat me like your own daughter. If you heard that I ''threatened'' Xandra in a ''fit of anger'', wouldn''t you misunderstand my words, then do something nasty with good intentions? Like maybe poison Xandra and turn him into a mute, or lock him up somewhere..."


    Everyone felt a chill in their bones and they looked sympathetically at Harper, but Harper quickly waved her hands.


    "No I wouldn''t...you....you''re asking me to take the rap for you?"


    This wouldnd her in jail!


    Mirabelle threw a dirty look at Harper, "What are talking about? Take the rap? I''m telling you to turn yourself in!"


    Turning herself in meant that she wanted Harper to plead guilty, to admit to a crime she did notmit.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Harper''s face paled instantly. So Mirabelle was going to leave her in a ditch to maintain her reputation?


    "Don''t worry, if you turn yourself in, I''ll make sure you get the lightest sentence. With the support of the Yosts, you''ll be out in a few years and I''ll make it up to you then."


    "Ms. Mirabelle! Ms. Mirabelle, please don''t do this, my son is still very young, and he can''t go without his mother...or you could get someone else..." Mirabelle could get anyone else to take the rap, why did it have to be her?


    The other two technical crew members present were rmed and quickly lowered their faces, afraid to be implicated.


    Mirabelle snorted, obviously displeased.


    "It has to be you! You''ve been with me the longest, so it will be easy for others to believe that you would be behind something like that, and think that I am innocent! For the sake of my future, for me to marry into the Fairchilds without a taint on my reputation, sacrifice yourself for me, Ms. Quimby!"


    Harper wanted to fight back. She couldn''t take the rap just like that!


    "Think about your son in hospital. His medical billse up to $200,000 every month. If you don''t listen to me, I don''t know if he can still continue with his treatment."


    This child was Harper''s Achilles'' heel, and with this implied threat from Mirabelle, all the thoughts she had earlier about fighting back disappeared.


    Mirabelle patted Harper''s trembling shoulders.


    "I don''t have a choice either. I must remain pure and innocent in Kallum''s eyes, so I have no choice but to sacrifice you. Don''t worry, your sacrifice is worth it! So that''s settled then!" Harper copsed onto the floor and couldn''t even say anything to defend herself...


    Soon enough, the full video of Mirabelle threatening Xandra was all over the inte.


    In the video, Mirabelle could be seen clearly telling Xandra, "I would advise you not to make a cake and then eat it all by yourself - I have plenty of ways to make you agree to my request!"


    But before this video spread too far,


    the video of Mirabelle apologizing went viral as well. She released a full ount of what had happened, saying that she had indeed threatened Xandra verbally, bu


    didn''t do anything to harm him.


    However someone close to her had heard these words and


    misunderstood her intentions.


    After forcibly getting the dance from Xandra, this person tricked Mirabelle into thinking that Xandra had changed his mind and had given up this dance willingly. She was anxious to be famous so she didn''t deny that this was her own choreography. But now Mirabelle had told that person to turn herself in, and she had realized her mistake, and because she was feeling guilty towards her fans, she decided to


    retire from the scene.


    In the video, Mirabelle apologized profusely and spoke very sincerely, saying things like no matter where Xandra was or what grudges he bore, she was willing to make it up to him. That as long as he appeared, she was willing to face this mistake head on. After this video was released, a lot of people who had said nasty things about Mirabelle now took it back.


    There were many others who also said things like, "Our fairy doesn''t have to be afraid! It''s just one dance, and you have plenty of other dances that are even better than ''Waterfront Serenade''! Don''t leave us, the stage still needs you!"


    "That''s right, don''t be afraid to make mistakes! Everyone makes mistakes! But our fairy is very brave foring out to admit her mistake and even making sure justice is served!"


    Mirabelle''s public rtions team was also working very hard - they told the public that the screen that night had been hacked, so someone must have been scheming to bring Mirabelle down.


    Mirabelle had gone from attacker to victim, and had be someone who was willing to repent, willing to retire from the stage because someone else had plotted against her - she was impressive indeed.


    Calista was watching this whole matter very closely. Harper had helped Mirabelle to do a lot of dirty deeds in her previous life, but she had been sacrificed like that in this life - this was really...very fun! After she put her phone aside, Calista felt like something was missing.


    After a while she realized that she felt like that because her life was suddenly very quiet.


    Kallum was also busy before, but he would definitely call her non-stop and she could choose whether she wanted to pick up the call or not. But now he had gone overseas for ten days, and she heard that it was an important trip...but she didn''t know what could be so important that he hadn''t made a single call at all.


    Calista pouted andy down her bed, tossing about from boredom.


    Yelena continued staying at the Langley residence, Quincy spent the entire day outside, her father was busy working and now Kallum had disappeared... What was he doing now?


    Calista poked at her phone when suddenly it started ringing.


    It was an unknown number, but Calista was sure it was Kallum. This time she didn''t decide to just reject the call, but picked it up.


    "Kallum?"


    There was no sound on the other end, and it was strangely quiet. Calista had a weird feeling and she sat up when there was suddenly a chortle.


    "Did you miss me?"


    A low and hoarse voice said those words, and Calista unconsciously breathed a sigh of relief. She frowned and coldly replied, "No. What do you want?" Kallum seemed to have guessed that she would respond this way and sighed regretfully.


    "Nothing, I just...really missed you..."


    His lingering words tugged gently at Calista''s heartstrings, and there was a little ripple on the surface of her heart.


    Calista didn''t say anything, but Kallum''s voice was especially gentle on the other side.


    "These few days I couldn''t help but think about the past, and you were right about one thing, I seem to be too extreme. You used to be so wonderful to me, but because I hated you back then, I couldn''t see it at all."

 Chapter 88 I Am Going To Save Some Lives

    Calista pursed her lips together and couldn''t help but ask, "Did something happen to you?"


    Kallum snorted, "What sort of question is that? What could happen to me?"


    Calista realized it was really a dumb question to ask. The Fairchilds weren''t just any aristocratic family - Kallum''s father, Ss, was the richest man in the country, while his younger brother, Walter Fairchild, was a top government official. So the Fairchilds had money, people and power, and it was nearly impossible for anything bad to happen to Kallum. And if it wasn''t for this incredible position of power and privilege, Kallum wouldn''t have turned out this arrogant either.


    Calista felt a little relived, so her attitude became distant again. "If there''s nothing else then I''m hanging up."


    "Wait!" Kallum was a little anxious and tried to hold it in, but he still asked anyway.


    "You didn''t miss me even a little bit? Just a little bit?"


    Previously he was constantly hanging around her and making sure his presence was felt. Now that he had been away and uncontactable for so long, it was impossible that Calista didn''t miss him! "Ohe on, you miss me, right?!"


    Calista''s lips curled up suddenly and she pushed them back down. She replied coldly, "Bye."


    "Nooo!"


    Kallum managed to stop her from hanging up in time and bit his lower lip unhappily. "Fine if you don''t miss me...I just wanted to tell you to be careful because the Wolfords seem to be making some moves, but I''m not in the country so you have to protect yourself. If you really can''t, then go to Fairchild Manor, ok?""


    It felt pretty good to have someone show her concern.


    Calista ended up smiling at this, but it wasn''t detectable in her voice. "What a nag." After a thought, she decided to go along with him and said, "I got it."


    Upon hearing this, Kallum immediatelytched on, "Or why don''t you go to Fairchild Manor right now? The Wolfords might be scheming something specifically against you!"


    Calista was about to reply when she could hear a loud st in the distance through the phone and her expression became serious. "Where are you now?"


    There was some interference from Kallum''s side, and after a long while she finally heard Kallum quickly say, "There''s a bit of a problem, but no worries. I have to go now, call you another time!"


    Calista frowned and wanted to ask more, then she heard Kallum''s voice breaking up as the static sound grew louder. "...Calista, this is the first time...I''ve missed...someone...wait for me toe back." ""Wait! Kallum?"


    Calista got out of bed and looked at her phone - the call had already been cut off. She tried to call the same number back but it couldn''t get through, so it was likely that Kallum could call her but she couldn''t call him...


    On the other side, Kallum was evacuating a group towards the factory.


    "Mr. Kallum! Why don''t we reject this mission? Now that there''s suddenly a conflict in Lostaria, it''s too dangerous to stay here!"


    Kallum wiped off the blood from his face and retorted, "That''s exactly why we can''t go! My uncle said our country will support Lostaria, so we must win this conflict! There''s a temporary travel ban to Lostaria and only I am able to fly in and out. There''s a shortage of weapons on the front line now, so if we don''t help them out, the Lostarian army can''t hold off these rebels for long."


    "But..." Julian was a small sized skinny man, and mixed emotions were written all over his face. "But Mr. Fairchild has also said that your safetyes first..."


    Kallum refused to listen to him. If he pulled out now, then there would be no hope for Lostaria. No aid would be as fast as him, because he was already within the arsenal.


    Seeing that Kallum wasn''t convinced, Quintus had to pull out his trump card.


    "Mr. Kallum, if something happens to you, I don''t know how the Wolfords might torture Ms. Stafford..."


    Kallum froze for a moment, but a sh of determination and confidence shed across his handsome face.


    "I have faith in her. Nothing will happen to me, and nothing will happen to her!"


    She wasn''t that shy little youngdy anymore, and he had been hurt by her thorns so many times.


    Suddenly Kallum smiled as he thought of something, and continued to look as radiant as ever even along the streets battered by war fire.


    *


    Calista was feeling very anxious. In fact she felt as if she forgot something...


    In her anxiety, she called Wanda.


    Wanda had also just cried after hearing that there was unrest in Lostaria. Her son had gone over only to deliver weapons, since the


    Fairchilds were legal arm dealer et


    and worked closely with the


    government, but who knew violence would suddenly erupt over there? Her son''s life was in danger, and she didn''t know whether anything bad would happen to him...


    So when she picked up Calista''s call, her voice cracked from crying.


    "Mrs. Fairchild, where has Kallum gone to?"


    She asked directly, forgetting to even ask after Wanda first.


    But of course Wanda wasn''t bothered in a time like this. She immediately started crying again, "Callie, what should I do now? Kallum has gone to Lostaria, and violent conflict has suddenly broken out there! The whole country is a mess now! Will something bad happen to him?"


    As expected, Kallum had really gone to Lostaria!


    At this time in her previous life, Kallum had disappeared for a few months. She was very anxious but she knew Kallum had gone on a business trip of sorts and she didn''t dare to ask too much. She didn''t expect it to really be Lostaria...


    Calista still had some rity in her heart.


    "Don''t worry, nothing will happen to him, I guarantee you."


    She was very confident because in her previous life, Kallum had gone there and had to stay in bed for a few months aftering back, but he was alive and well.


    He didn''t allow her to visit him back then, so Calista didn''t know where he was injured, but he was definitely not dead.


    Calista frowned deeply.


    Could she really be so sure? Many doubts suddenly surfaced in her heart. Would everything really happen exactly the same way it did in her previous life?


    After hearing Calista''s words, Wanda immediately perked up.


    "You''re right! There are so many people around Kallum, so even if a war is going on there, nothing would happen..."


    Given Kallum''s position, even if somebody died it wouldn''t be him.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    After hanging up, Calista forced herself to calm down.


    Kallum wouldn''t die - since the same thing happened in her previous life, nothing would change She wasn''t sure what sort of injury he would suffer, but since he was as healthy as before in only a few months and there were no scars left behind, it probably wouldn''t be any serious injury.


    Not serious...


    Calista stood up and looked out of the window, focusing on nothing in particr. She didn''t even know what she was thinking about.


    Day after day passed and she was about to start school in a week. Besides saying some words offort to Wanda every now and then, she didn''t do anything else.


    There was news about Lostaria


    everywhere. It was a developing nation, and this social unrest was going to push them back ten years Calista knew that this internal


    conflict was basically a fight for


    political power, but the thing that sparked this off was the sudden outbreak of the Influenza. The citizens of Lostaria had suffered civil war and a fatal influenza virus, and it would take more than a decade to recover from its effects.


    Influenza T? A yearter, doctors found a way to treat this virus. She had alsoe across case studies and even though she had not done extensive research, she did know more than most people.


    Calista struggled for a while in her heart. Then suddenly she was clear on what she had to do.


    She was an expert in medicines and had the knowledge of the next ten years of medical advancement along. Her ability to merge both modern and traditional medicine practices would allow her to develop more medicines and other treatments, and could definitely save some lives! A thought suddenly appeared in her mind. Since she was aware of this, why not go save some lives?


    Lostaria was suffering from a viral outbreak, and since she wanted to go into this line of work, then she could take a trip there as an internship. Her body was special anyway, so even if she was infected she wouldn''t pass it on to anybody - what was there to be afraid of? She was going to conquer all sorts of virus and illnesses in this life, so what was she worried about?

 Chapter 89 Injured

    Once she had decided to go ahead, Calista gave Benedict a call and told him she was going on a trip.


    Benedict now had all his shares in hand and was more confident in his work now, so he happily allowed her to go.


    Calista knew that the Wolfords and the Langleys wouldn''t make any trouble for the Staffords for the time being and would probably just keep a close eye on her, so she wasn''t too worried. So she packed her bags and left. Since there was a travel ban to Lostaria, Calista had no choice but to ask Jarrett for help.


    She went over once a month to treat Ambrose anyway, so she didn''t feel bad about ordering Jarrett around.


    Jarrett was a little stunned when he got a call from Calista. He thought Calista wouldn''t look him up anymore.


    "You need a ne? To where?"


    Jarrett immediately sensed that something was up. There was no reason to borrow a ne unless she was headed for somewhere problematic.


    Calista kept a calm voice and poker face on as she exined, "I need to get to the border of Turlen. There''s war in Lostaria so there''s also a travel ban on neighboring Turlen. But there''s an herb that only grows at the border of Turlen that I need for Ambrose''s treatment, and I''m the only one who would be able to find it."


    She could see that Jarrett wanted to ask more so she quickly cut him off, "Hurry up and make arrangements, otherwise we''ll miss the season. Don''t you want Ambrose to get well?"


    Jarrett finally budged. "Then I''ll send people over to go with you."


    He wanted to say that he would go with her, but if he said so, Calista would definitely reject him, so he didn''t say it in the end.


    Calista nodded without much emotion and she was on a ne by afternoon.


    Kallum had sent people to protect Calista secretly, but there was nothing they could do once Calista had boarded the ne.


    They tried to report to Kallum, but Kallum was in the middle of a war and couldn''t receive any news at all.


    Calista told herself over and over again, she was just going there to save lives. She was grateful for being reborn, so in this life, she was determined to seek revenge for herself and to save the lives of others who needed help. The actions she was taking now werepletely in line with that.


    If only she could ignore the tension she felt in her bones - she was obviously worried about something.


    The five men on the ne with her were bodyguards specially arranged by Jarrett, so she knew that the moment she even mentioned going to Lostaria, they would knock her out and turn the ne around.


    So she had to keep herself together, calm down and shake them off!


    "Fly a little more southwards."


    "I can''t go any further," the pilot replied. "Any further south and we''ll hit the border of Lostaria. The entire airspace is locked down by missiles, and all nes that try to fly across will be shot down!"This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista couldn''t do anything about that either, so she decided tond where they were.


    The head of the bodyguards with her was called Sawyer Wackerman, and he felt that Calista didn''t seem like she was here to pick herbs like what Jarrett had told him. She looked more like she was searching for a person.


    Afternding, four of them walked alongside Calista. Calista continued walking towards Lostaria and calmly said, "I''m looking for a blue flower that has twelve petals, no leaves and about the size of a fist. It can only be found in the primary forest that''s along the border of the two countries. It''s very rare and can''t be found in the market because a lot of people don''t know it has medicinal properties."


    Calista spoke very confidently and steadily, so Sawyer started to believe her. "Got it. As long as it can be used to treat Mr. Ambrose, we will definitely find it. This area is very dangerous, so Ms. Stafford must follow us very closely."


    He passed Calista a gun as he said so.


    Calista took the gun from him and led the search.


    Actually she wasn''t really lying - that blue flower she described was really used in traditional medicine and there were reports that some people hade across it in this region, but actually it was on the verge of extinction. If she had this flower, it would greatly help in clearing Ambrose''s blood vessels, and it would only take three doses and acupuncture to heal Ambrosepletely.


    But Calista didn''t think they would really find it. She had seen so many different herbs in her previous life but never came across this flower, so perhaps it had already gone extinct.


    After a day had passed, Calista was walking closer and closer to the border. Sawyer was anxious to find the herbs, but still pulled her back anyway.


    "Ms. Stafford, we can''t walk any further in this direction. Lostaria is a mess right now and just the few of us can''t handle it. Or is the nt you''re looking for within Lostaria?"


    Calista looked wistfully in Lostaria''s direction. "I''m not really sure, but we could split up and search. You guys can stay here and I''ll go over myself, I know what to do!"


    Sawyer insisted that Calista stay on this side of the border, so Calista frowned and pretended to go along with him. But at night, she cooked arge pot of soup for the four men using the mushrooms she had picked along the way.


    In less than half an hour, all of them were lying on the floor and couldn''t even speak - they had definitely eaten poisonous mushrooms.


    Calista had measured out the amount very carefully, so she was sure they wouldn''t die, but it would also take them some time to recover.


    After that, Calista poured some powder in arge circle around them so that wild animals would not approach them while they were unable to move.


    Sawyer slowly regained his ability to speak but he couldn''t stop Calista from leaving so he asked, "That blue flower...you...lied to us?"


    Calista shook her head. "Continue looking for it after you guys recover ok? There are reports that it can really be found in this area, and it will really be helpful to Ambrose." "Then you..."


    "I..." Calista hesitated for a moment. "I''m going to save some lives."


    She slung her backpack on and said in a serious voice, "I must go!"


    With help from Kallum, the Lostarian government was able to remain in power andunched a powerful attack on the rebels, and there was hope for the country now. "How''s everything?"


    Kallum epted this mission from the government despite its risks to try to settle the conflict. But even though they had sent a lot of ammunition over, things were still not looking up.


    A foreigner with deep set features


    stood across from Kallum and said,


    "Things aren''t looking good. The


    enemy keeps misleading the


    citizens, saying that the Influenza T outbreak is an illness sent by God to


    punish the people. You know our country is very religious, so if the


    people listen to them and get


    brainwashed by them, we''re in a very dangerous situation!"


    -


    Kallum rubbed the spot between his eyebrows. He was very pale from his injuries he had to go right into the heart of the battle, and the few of them were carrying such


    conspicuous amounts of supe


    so they had been chased down by the rebels until they reached safely. So naturally he was injured, and was rather severely injured too.


    "Where are the doctors? Influenza T is a strain of the K Virus, so since it''s manmade, surely there''s some antiviral of sorts, right? You mean there''s nobody who can find a cure?"


    The other party was put in a spot by these questions. "There''s no cure, because the rebels purposely destroyed most of our hospitals before sending this Influenza T virus out, and many of our best doctors have died in the attack..." Kallum looked toward Quintus who was standing at one side, and Quintus frowned too.


    "Our country is sending a medical team over to support the forces here, but it will take another two days for that to happen. The rebels have spent a lot of money to buy M2 missiles, and if we don''t disarm them, any iing nes might be shot down, so we need two days."


    This was also why Kallum was risking his life here - the enemy was very well prepared and made it slow and difficult for any aid to arrive. And even if the medical team arrived safely, nobody could be sure when they could find a cure for the Influenza T either.

 Chapter 90 Influenza

    "It can''t be helped then. We''ll have to use the most primitive method to disinfect the ce. There''s very little medicine around here, but plenty of alcohol."


    Kallum quickly gave a series of instructions, and then Quintus and the rest forced him to take a rest. But then a message came in and Kallum sat up violently when he read it. "Calista borrowed a ne from Jarrett?!"Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Kallum knew which countries had a travel ban by heart even without checking. If Calista had to borrow a ne, was sheing to look for him?!


    This thought made him mad with joy, then mad with rage! Was Calista seriouslying to look for him?!


    Kallum tried using themunication device to call out, but couldn''t reach anyone. D*mn it! This message hade in a few days ago already, so if Calista was on the way, she would have reached here by now. "Gunner!" he called out urgently and a man in ck came in. He was very tall with an extremely unfriendly face.


    Gunner and Ryder''s roles were much like the emperor''s personal guards in ancient times. They were in charge of protecting Kallum, and were the most outstanding of all the Parker bodyguards. ""Mr. Kallum."


    Gunner quietly answered and saw that even though Kallum was severely injured and should be very weak, the veins at the side of his forehead were about to burst!


    "Get people to patrol the primary forest area at the Mirewood River! If anyone sees Ms. Calista, make sure she goes home in one good piece!"


    Gunner froze, "You''ve already sent Ryder out, and for your safety, I cannot leave your side."


    The reply Gunner got was a loud crash as themunication device smashed into a few pieces next to his foot. Kallum was clearly going mad from worry.


    "I told you to go!"


    Gunner had no choice but to obey, and started feeling contempt for this woman who didn''t know how to quietly stay home at such a time, insteading out here and making things worse.


    Next to the Mirewood River, Calista surfaced from underwater. She was now within Lostaria, and besides some abandoned steel tes, there wasn''t a single soul in sight.


    Everyone outside of the country knew that there was an outbreak of influenza in Lostaria because the rebels had infected the river with the virus, and any water taken from it had to be boiled several times before it became drinkable. If one was not careful enough, he would definitely be infected, so there were very few guards around the river. Calista used some tools to cut through the electric fence. Anybody guarding the area would probably miss her because she was alone, and even if they found her they probably wouldn''t think she was dangerous.


    After walking some distance, she saw a poor vige ahead. The rich of Lostaria were very rich, and the poor were very poor, so there were plenty of viges where the only electrical appliance were lightbulbs. The vige ahead was quite obviously one of these poor viges, and because they were near to the Mirewood River, everyone in the vige was infected, and there was almost no sign of life in the vige.


    Influenza T was a manmade virus, and its biggest w was that it didn''t survive long, disappearingpletely after three or four days in the water. So somebody had to constantly infect the water so as to use it as a biological weapon in this war.


    But once it had infected a person,


    the effects were as frightening as its original strain, the K Virus. It would head right into the bloodstream and cause massive changes to the body, and that was what made it difficult to treat. If Calista''s memory served her right, in her previous life, way more people died from this virus than from the effects of the war, and who knew how to create the antiviral capsule that eventually appeared after a year of research now?


    When they saw someoneing, nobody in the vige reacted. All of them were down to skin and bones, with some lying at home and some sitting by the road. Because of the infection, they were constantly


    feverish and had no strength tel. ne


    anything. If they were hungry they would eat a little grass or some leaves, and drink water if they were thirsty. Once they couldn''t move at all, they would just wait to die. Within half a month, half this vige had died!


    Calista put a leaf in her mouth and she could hear moans of paining out from the houses on both sides. She continued walking as if she didn''t hear anything and headed straight for a young girl lying at the bottom of a tree.


    The young girl looked like she had been just infected and didn''t have symptoms like high fever. She was probably infected because of the wound on her leg and not because of the water she drank. Her left leg was severely injured by a bomb of sorts, and in such a vige, any untreated wounds would definitely be infected with this virus.


    Calista squatted down and looked straight into the child''s eyes. She saw that the little girl did not have the emptiness, numbness or pain that the others had. Instead her gaze was unwavering, as if she was hoping for something.


    When she saw Calista, she opened her mouth and hoarse noises came out.


    "Can I see your wound?" asked Calista. Luckily many of the countries in this region spoke Uronian, and thanks to her good memory, this was no problem to Calista who was fluent in four differentnguages.


    The little girl took great effort to


    stretch her left leg out. Her face was


    thin and sunken, and so was her body. Calista rolled up the little girl''s pants leg and looked


    expressionlessly at a terrifying


    wound that was ck in some e


    and bloodied in others. It gave off the smell of rotting flesh, and some parts were moving slightly. Upon closer inspection, Calista realized those moving bits were actually maggots feasting on the rotting flesh.


    If Calista had not be reborn, this would definitely have sent her screaming in terror.


    But in her previous life, the same thing happened to her as well, and there was a time when she had to be the one to cut off the rotting flesh and maggots on herself. So when she saw this now, she only felt numb.


    That sort of pain and itch was so severe, and it could even be felt in the bones, and both the sight of it and the feeling could drive one mad. The little girl also seemed terrified of her own wound, but she didn''t have any strength left in her to struggle nor scream, so she could only look up at Calista, and Calista felt her heart go out to her.


    "I''ll help to dress your wounds, close your eyes if you''re scared."


    Calista took a deep breath. Her expression was distant as usual, but her eyes shone bright and there was a sh of determination.


    "No..." The little girl finally managed to speak, her voice extremely hoarse, and there was sadness on her little thin face. "I was infected with the horrible illness a few days ago...I''m dying...don''t waste expensive medicine...on me..."


    Calista pressed down on her leg so that she couldn''t move. "It''s not expensive at all. I picked all of these from the forest next to the Mirewood River. They''re all herbs, see?"


    She pulled out a bunch of herbs from her backpack for the little girl to see.


    Calista knew that what this ce really needed wasn''t a doctor to treat their symptoms, but medicine that could fight this virus! So she continuously picked herbs along the way here because she knew they woulde in handy.


    Thankfully her memory was excellent and she could roughly remember theponents of the Influenza T antiviral capsule from her previous life. She had just scanned through so she couldn''t really remember the exact proportion and all that, but if she had ess to ab, she was confident that she could get rid of this manmade disaster!


    She took a while to think, but then quickly took action. She only had three syringes of anesthetic, so after giving the little girl one injection, she didn''t bother about disinfecting anything else. After running her surgical knife through a me, she started cutting off the rotting flesh.


    The little girl looked very ufortable - before this, her pants covered the wound and she was already numb to the pain - but when she saw how the maggots wereing out along with the ck and red rotten flesh, the feeling almost drove her insane!

 Chapter 91 War Everywhere

    The little girl weakly opened her mouth and whimpered. Calista stared at her for a while, then undid her jacket and put it over the little girl''s face. "It''ll be fine as long as you don''t look."


    The little girl wanted to pull the jacket off her face when everything suddenly went dark, but she suddenly stopped moving when she heard Calista''s voice.


    This pretty youngdy seemed cold and distant, but her gentleness had touched the little girl''s heart. So the little girl slowly rxed, as the smell of the jacket made her feel at ease and she felt like sleeping.


    Calista bent her head down and continued, quickly cutting off all the rotten flesh. Then she used a rock to pound the herbs into a paste and applied it on the wound.


    In the process, she also tried to distract the little girl.


    "What were you doing under the tree?"


    The little girl hadn''t eaten in days and was very weak, so she hoarsely replied, "My brother was taken away by soldiers...I''m waiting for him toe back..."


    The little girl''s words made Calista feel ufortable. If the soldiers she mentioned had taken her brother away by force, then they must have been rebel forces. Once they took anyone away, they were likely to nevere back. After she had bandaged the wound, Calista took the jacket off the little girl''s head, but the little girl held onto the sleeve of the jacket.


    "You want it?" Calista looked at her jacket.


    The little girl nodded, an intense desire in her light amber colored eyes.


    "It smells very nice..." It was a smell that could make her feel at ease, and she held onto the jacket as if it would save her, as if she could get some sense of security from it.


    Calista let go of the jacket. "If you want it, you can have it."


    She pulled out more herbs from her backpack and asked the little girl, "I need a stove and a pot. Do you have one?"


    The little girl pointed out the house that she lived in with her brother. But now her brother was gone, and it was only left with her.


    Calista patted her dirty and messy head. "You stay here, I''ll go over myself."


    Calista had decided to boil a pot full of herbs before moving on. This concoction could only help with the symptoms and not the actual virus, but if she left without doing this, everyone would be dead in a few days.


    She opened the door and saw a few rats boldly run towards the door. One of them nearly pounced on Calista but she kicked it away violently, and after a few squeaks and struggles, it ran off.


    The house was like a refugee camp and was filled with a rotting smell. Calista sighed quietly. Many vigers had died, but what the influenza took away from the people first was not their lives but their soul, and there was an unpleasant feeling of despair in the air. Calista chopped up the tables and chairs to use as firewood, then boiled a whole pot of herbs with water from the Mirewood River.


    She poured the concoction into a bottle and took it outside. She found a couple of men who weren''t too ill and passed the bottle to one of them.


    "Here''s some medicine, you will feel better for a while after drinking it, but the symptoms wille back after some time. So once you feel better, go to the forest and pick some herbs and boil more for yourselves." Calista put the three types of herbs she used on the ground, but she realized that neither man moved and their vision was cloudy, as if they didn''t understand what she said at all.


    She frowned and there was a sudden burst of coldness from her.


    ""Didn''t you hear what I said?"


    One of them was frightened by her sudden icy voice, and cried as he held his face in his hands, "We won''t get better, God is punishing us with this illness, and we need the evil leader of our country to die before we can be cured!" Calista couldn''t stand hearing such nonsense, so she forcibly poured some of the medicine down his throat and then pushed the bottle into his hands.


    "I''m god now! Whoever doesn''t eat the medicine I''ve mercifully provided can go to hell!"


    With that, she turned to leave, but she remembered to pour a bowl of the medicine for the little girl under the tree.


    "Drink this. Your illness is not that severe, so you''ll get better."


    The little girl hadn''t drunk anything in a long time, so even though the medicine was very bitter, she drank it down very quickly. This made Calista feel less agitated and she patted the girl''s head. "Are you leaving now?"


    Calista nodded. There were many people waiting to be treated, and if a foreigner like her stuck around for too long, the rebel soldiers might find her.


    The most ideal situation was for her


    to develop treatment drugs back home and then send it over, but


    there was no way they could carpet


    the Influenza T virus into her


    country. And she could only see what she was dealing with by Witnessing the effects of the virus on an actual person.


    "Tell the other vigers that they must boil the water several times before drinking it, and to wash their hands diligently, ok? This disaster will be over soon, I promise you!" Calista''s voice was very confident and clear.


    There was a bright spark in the little girl''s eyes.


    "Does that mean my brother ising back soon?" Her voice suddenly increased in volume and she looked with hope at a particr part of the vige.


    "He said he has gone to uphold justice and he would be a great person. So once this is over, he will surelye back!"


    He was going to die.


    Calista felt a chill in her heart, but she didn''t say it out loud.


    Calista stood up and the little girl realized that Calista was really leaving. The little girl wanted to cry, but her eyes were too dry.


    After such a long period of struggling, this was the only person who had taken care of her and fed her medicine. To her, Calista was pretty much a god.


    She slowly climbed up and bowed to Calista, putting her hands together and bowed with her face to the floor.


    "Miss, I pray for you...if I die, my soul will bless you."


    Calista nodded and quickly walked off. She hated seeing death, and she was very afraid of seeing how hope turned into despair among arge group of people dying.


    They all lived on the same, but how was it that some people were happily going to school, while others were fighting wars?


    This was the first time Calista considered this question.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Meanwhile, Kallum was still waiting for news. But after waiting several days, Gunner said that they still hadn''t found Calista.


    Kallum breathed a sigh of relief, thinking that he might have just been paranoid...how could this be possible anyway? Calista didn''t like him anymore anyway...so why would shee looking for him?


    He felt bitter in his heart, but his logical brain was relieved.


    The war never stopped outside, and it was in such a time that Kallum found himself missing Calista even more. He thought about her calmness, her aggressiveness, how she used to be shy and timid - each scene shed in his mind. One''s personality might change after they had gone through death. But what had Calista gone through without his knowledge?


    The change in her had made Kallum want to dote on her without regard for anything else. If this time...he was able to go home in one piece, he wanted to marry her!


    Over on the other side, the rebel troops'' missile system had finally been disarmed, and all sides were preparing for battle!


    There were some risking their lives to send help, and there were some risking their lives to escape. There were also some who didn''t fear death and ran in to fight for wealth and power.


    Kallum was still taking care of the


    arsenal, sending weapons to the front line continuously. But he couldn''t stay behind the scenes for too long as there was a severe manpower shortage. If possible, he had to advance forward. He was already here, so if he had to work hard to survive. Waiting to be


    protected was the most foolish thing to do now.


    The medical team had finally arrived and built a medicalb for Level Four viruses on the foundations meant to be an army hospital in the shortest time possible, ready to take on the virus that had swept through half of Lostaria. Most of themunication lines were down, so Kallum could onlymunicate with his uncle and couldn''t even call home, much less receive any news about Calista.

 Chapter 92 One Moment In Crisis

    She didn''te, right? She should be in safe ce right now, listening to birds chirping and breathing in fresh air.


    Kallum looked at the reddish grey smoke that covered the sky,forting himself with these thoughts as the sts continued outside. "Mr. Kallum! Someone hase to intercept the firearms! They''re almost here!"


    Kallum immediately became alert again.


    "How many people?"


    "More than five hundred, but they have a tank and armored cars! They''re well prepared!"


    A murderous look shed in Kallum''s eyes, "The area in front is a residential area with many houses built close together, we''ll go there!"


    Julian was most familiar with the grounds, so he quickly replied, "Mr. Kallum, that''s not the best route to retreat."


    "Who''s says we''re going to retreat?" Kallum wiped his face, his eyes filled with determination.


    He was covered with bloodstains, but once he brought out the arrogant aristocrat in him, it was as if everything was washed off and he became impossible to ignore.


    Kallum pointed outside and said seriously, "The newly built researchb is just over there. They might not being for us but the hospital instead! We can''t let them have their way! If this hospital is destroyed, I don''t know how long it will take to rebuild it. So the only way is to trap them in the city area and then kill them all!"


    The moment Kallum said the word ''kill'', the other hundred odd men were riled up.


    "Kill! Kill them all!"


    The murderous chants grew louder and louder. There was no mistake in following Kallum. The men had be used to seeing death and had killed a lot of people as well - so they weren''t afraid of anything anymore! There was only blood boiling in their bodies with no fear whatsoever.


    Calista looked at the map as she walked towards the city area.


    It shouldn''t be far from where she was. In her previous life, they had built a Level Four researchb here, and that was where she was headed. Only there would she prove to be of tremendous value.


    Suddenly a group of people made a dash for the city area. Besides armored vehicles, they also had a tank, and they were shooting clearly in a particr direction. Calista quickly hid in a ce out of their line of sight.


    From the look of it, these were rebel soldiers. But if rebel soldiers were here instead of being on the front line, something was up.


    Calista thought about it for a while, and then followed the soldiers.


    There was nobody left in this part of the city, and there were plenty of holes caused by gun fire and bombs. Calista cleverly weaved in between the ruins and suddenly realized that these people were very possibly headed for the hospital!


    If they bombed the hospital, then her efforts to get here would be in vain.


    But she stopped worrying almost instantly, because she could hear the sound of cross firing - someone was stopping the rebel forces!


    Calista breathed a sigh of relief as she remembered that she didn''t hear anything about the hospital being destroyed in her previous life. ording to her memory, every single doctor that was sent here went back to Chanaea safely, so these rebel troops'' attack wasn''t going to seed this time.


    The battle outside was fierce, but Calista didn''t think that hiding and doing nothing was the best thing to do either, so she hid herself in a dark spot and finally found something she wanted after searching all her pockets.


    She didn''t just focus on getting here, but she also gathered a lot of information about any special symptoms that infected patients had as well as a record of the reaction they had to her herb concoction.


    At the same time, she found some poisonous nts to use as self-defense.


    Calista slowly inched closer to the battle, but in order to stay alive, she had to move very slowly. Luckily for her, the two parties were focused on the battle and nobody noticed her. Calista breathed a sigh of relief as she determined the wind direction, and then climbed a low building and hid herself, waiting for a chance to pour the poisonous powder she had down.


    The fighting continued and there was some distance between the two parties. The rebel troops were downwind from where Calista was, and as long as there was wind blowing, Calista was sure the powder would work.


    The only unfortunate part was that


    she didn''t have much powder on hand. So even after throwing down more than ten packets, only two armored vehicles and a dozen men were affected. The powder got on their face and hands, first causing a burning sensation, then an


    ou


    unbearable itch! They were not able to aim as well as before, and when Kallum''s side realized there was a problem in the enemy camp, they quickly attacked while they were down.


    Those who had the powder on their skin could also pass on the powder if they touched another person''s bare skin, and this sudden turn of events drove them into a panic. Their armored car couldn''t be used anymore, and Kallum was afraid other rebel soldiers might take it back, so he ordered his men to surround the vehicle and shoot, and the enemy side lost more than a hundred people.


    "Someone is helping us!"


    Kallum had no time to think who could be helping them. He seized the opportunity to attack harder, and fired a bomb at the enemy''s tank, destroying it.


    Without the tank and armored cars, the other side was much weaker than before, so Kallum''s men quicklyunched their attack, and the battle became a one-sided battle.


    Calista originally intended to leave after pouring the powder down, but in the midst of the smoke and sand, she suddenly spotted someone!N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    That person was dressed in a military uniform, his back straight, his sharp jaw out, and his deep purple almond shaped eyes were staring at the enemy aggressively.


    He was covered with blood, but his hand was steadily using a weapon to kill the enemy and giving outmands, like an army general!


    But Calista knew that man was no general. He was an aristocrat who should have been seated in a ssy restaurant, enjoying music, red wine and the praises and admiration of others - but now he was here fighting on the front lines! Calista rubbed her eyes. It was Kallum alright, and it was a Kallum she had never seen before.


    But no matter whether he was in a skyscraper office building or at a smoky battle field, he still shone as bright as a diamond.


    Calista wanted to call out to him but hesitated. It was definitely a bad idea to interrupt him now, so she quietly made her way to the ground floor and moved nearer to Kallum, waiting for the remaining two hundred odd men to either surrender or die before going over. But suddenly a man rushed out!


    He had bombs tied all over his body, and even after being shot at, he still managed several steps forward before copsing to the ground.


    "Hurry up! Move back now!"


    There was a loud boom, but


    because they had retreated fast and


    far enough, Kallum''s side was not hurt, just hit by some flying debris. But immediately after that explosion, another two men with bombs tied all over their bodies came running out. Their eyes were bloodshot and they ignited themselves as they headed for Kallum''s side, determined to kill themselves along with their enemies.


    This time they had managed toe nearer and bombed a gap in Kallum''s troops. Kallum quickly ordered the men in front to spread out and the men at the back to cover them. There weren''t many soldiers left on the other side, so they could ovee them easily. At first he thought the remaining ones were random soldiers, but after fighting them for a while, he realized these were soldiers who were extremely loyal to the rebel camp!


    He had been ambushed like this several times already, but usually after he had killed most of their men or destroyed most of their weapons, any remaining soldiers would surrender. This was the first time he was faced with soldiers willing to die for their cause! Kallum calmly gave orders, not putting his gun down even after his arm was hit by flying debris. He attacked when he could and retreated when necessary, but what he didn''t know was that Calista was hiding behind rubble only about ten steps away from him. Calista had trained well since a young age, so her vision and hearing were excellent as a result. It was difficult to see more than ten yards through the sand and thick smoke, but Calista was clearly able to see someone holding a machine gun and ready to shoot in this direction!


    The smoke from the gunfire was very thick, so Kallum had no idea that the area in front of him was no longer safe, and Kallum was about to get shot soon! Without thinking, Calista dashed forward, pounced on Kallum and rolled on the ground, narrowly missing the shot that was fired.


    Kallum was suddenly pounced on and his body immediately tensed up.


    After hearing the sounds of the machine gun, he realized that this person pounced on him to save him. But the strange thing was, this person had a soft, supple and pleasant smelling body, so this couldn''t be one of his burly men. Calista looked up and saw Kallum look curiously at her.


    She curled her lips into a smile and revealed her pearly whites, then shouting loudly as the explosions continued around them, "Are you happy to see me?"

 Chapter 93 Successfully Meeting Him

    Kallum''s beautiful watery almond eyes instantly became wide and round.


    "Calista!!!"


    He gripped Calista''s arm with immense strength.


    This was not the ce to chit chat, so Calista immediately wiped the smile off her face and mbered up, moving to one side under the cover of the gunfire.


    Another rebel soldier blew himself up, and it was finally quiet on the enemy''s side. Ryder led his team to fire a round to make sure there were no more soldiers hiding, but it was obvious that Kallum''s side had won. After making sure they were no longer in danger, Kallum red fiercely at the petite woman standing in front of him. "What are you doing here?! How did you get here? Was it Jarrett?!"


    If it was Jarrett, Kallum was going to kill him when he got back! Did Jarrett know what sort of ce this was? That idiot! Everyone was trying to flee Lostaria, but he actually sent Calista in!


    Calista pursed her dry and cracked lips, "This is not a good ce to talk. I want to go to theb in front. I have important information to provide the doctors!"


    "Nonsense, what important information could you have? Pack your things and I''ll send you home now!"


    Calista felt that Kallum was looking down on her.


    "I spent thest few days walking over from the source of the influenza, and there''s no doctor who understands the Influenza T better than me! My medical expertise and knowledge is definitely higher than the doctors that were sent here, so why can''t I go there?" Kallum didn''t really listen carefully to thetter part - her first sentence already made his head burst.


    "Did you say you came over from the source of the influenza? You walked here from the border of Lostaria?!"


    Calista nodded, "Sometimes I hitched a ride, took me about eight or nine days."


    Oh my god!


    Kallum felt like he was about to faint, "Are you alright? There are some people who don''t get any symptoms for a long time, do you feel difort anywhere?!"


    He used both hands to hold onto Calista''s shoulders, his eyes about to stare through her.


    Calista shook her head, "I''m fine. We don''t have much time left, quickly bring me to theb! I have several herbs on hand that are key to the cure for Influenza T!"


    Kallum''s face grew very grim. Calista was very talented, highly skilled in acupuncture and gifted in researching medical drugs. But this was Influenza T! It was a strain from the incurable K Virus, and many of the medical experts who had arrived the day before felt helpless towards this situation. They believed that they could possibly take more than one and a half years to find a cure, so the best thing to do now was to stop the spread as much as they could. Now Calista had just arrived and she had a way to find a cure - how was he supposed to believe her?


    This ce was so dangerous, and he couldn''t stand Calista spending even one more second here.


    "Be good! I don''t know why you came..." Kallum paused, his eyes lingering for a moment.


    "Seeing you here...makes me very happy."


    Calista continued to look coldly at him, but when he said this, she felt as if the gunshots around her slowly faded into silence.


    "BUT!" Kallum''s eyes returned to the intense gaze he had earlier, "This is not a fun ce to be in, and there are people dying every day! I don''t want you to get hurt, so go back in the afternoon! I''ll arrange for a ne now!"


    This man was really...! If she had known he would be like this, she wouldn''t havee here.


    "I can really solve this problem, you just need to give me ab..."


    "No! I''ll get someone to check you overter, if nothing''s wrong then you will fly home immediately!"


    "Even my dad doesn''t control me like this." This was true - after she started this current life, Benedict always let Calista do whatever she wanted.


    Kallum raised his eyebrows, "I am your future husband! If he doesn''t take you in hand, I will!"


    She couldn''t stand him anymore.


    Calista suddenly threw her arms around Kallum''s neck, disregarding how filthy he was and kissed his thin lips. The gunshots continued behind them and the sky was yellow with smokeand sand - the scene of a man and a woman kissing seemed so out of ce yet so befitting at the same time, and was most certainly a rare sight.


    Luckily none of Kallum''s subordinates saw this because they were focused on their duties, or otherwise their jaws would have dropped to the ground by now.


    Kallum immediately became infatuated with her the moment his lips touched hers, and as what he had told her over the phone, he missed her terribly! This made him think about what happened that time he was drugged...the first time he was intimate with Calista! Calista''s body was...very special. So even though he hated her back then, he couldn''t help but secretly want her one more time.


    He missed her so terribly!!


    From Kallum''s aggressive embrace, Calista guessed that he had probably calmed down. So she pulled her lips away and saw that Kallum had a very serious look on his face, but didn''t say anymore about forcing her to leave, so she breathed a sigh of relief. She didn''t expect that she could control Kallum with such a method, it was really...


    Hard to exin in a few words.


    "I want to stay here."


    When she saw Kallum frown, she said, "I won''t stay too long. Just one day - if you think it''s pointless for me to stay here after one day, I''ll leave immediately."N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Kallum reluctantly nodded.


    But the reason he agreed wasn''t because he wanted to give Calista a chance in theb. He agreed because after embracing her, he didn''t want to let go of her and wanted to hold her in his arms for a while longer.


    At the hospital, Kallum arranged a thorough checkup for Calista, only attending to his own wounds after making sure she wasn''t infected.


    Calista saw that his wounds weren''t serious so she wasn''t too bothered. She only asked, "Where''s the Level Fourb? I want to go over right now."


    Kallum red at her unhappily.


    "I''ll get Quintus to bring you there. If they ask, just say you''ve been sent here specially."


    Calista nodded and quickly made her way over. There was no time to waste when it came to something like influenza. If they could solve this problem earlier, the current internal conflict that hadsted one to two years might even end earlier, saving more lives in the process.


    There were seven people in theb now, working calmly and orderly. They were all wearing hazmat suits and you couldn''t tell one person from another.


    Calista had put a hazmat suit on as well, and once she entered theb, Quintus gathered everyone and introduced Calista and exined why she was here.


    Kallum was now in control of Lostaria''s resources, including the hospital. Calista didn''t bother with any formalities and immediately took out the items she had.


    "I came over from the source of the


    water that the rebel soldiers contaminated, and along the way I discovered that a mixture of these three herbs are able to fight the symptoms of the virus temporarily. The symptomse back after a while, but if we could add in some other drugs, it might be able to cure this influenza."


    Everybody took her words with a pinch of salt, and looked strangely at Calista.


    Everyone present knew how risky this ce was and had already signed an indemnity form and wrote their wills beforeing over. They had only arrived for a few days, and now someone was iming that she had a breakthrough in treating this flu- obviously they were shocked by Calista''s words.


    They stole a nce at Quintus beside her, and realized this was someone close to Kallum. So even though they had their doubts, they took the herbs from Calista to analyze itsponents. They hadn''t made any advancement at the moment anyway, so they weren''t going to dismiss any possibility.


    Calista was relieved when she saw that nobody had any disagreements. The situation was very tense and everyone had amon enemy, so their hearts were less wary. Given better circumstances, it wouldn''t have been so easy to make these highly regarded experts listen to her so obediently.

 Chapter 94 Admit That You Like Me

    Medical analysis and testing would take quite a while, so Calista passed her record book of observations she made during this time to Quintus, and decided to wash up and get a good rest. It had been a while since shest slept well.


    Two young assistants walked out along with her. They were here to learn and get some hands on experience, but they weren''t here on their own ord. They were sent here by their families.


    Their families had good rtions with the Fairchilds, and their motive for sending their precious daughters to a ce like this was obvious.


    A romance on the battle field, sharing in weal and woe - that was surely a stronger case than the fianc¨¦e that was betrothed to Kallum, right?


    Once Calista removed her mask, the two women realized that Calista was as young as them, and started making nasty assumptions.


    One of them muttered, "I thought it was some big shot, just passing out a record book and herbs the moment she arrived. The professors don''t even have any idea what to do with this influenza, and she talks about it as if it''s normal flu. I didn''t expect her to be a little girl - what a great pretender!"


    They were in theirte twenties while Calista was eighteen, so she was like a little girl to them.


    Calista didn''t want to bother about what they said. Her eyes and ears were very sharp, but normally she would just pretend that she didn''t hear what they said.


    The other girl with her started to analyze the situation, "It''s obvious isn''t it? She''s here to im credit. If the professors seed in their research, then she''ll im the credit and her career would take off. It''s risky, but it would really pay off!"


    "Oh really? I don''t think her aim is the research!" The female assistant who spoke first felt that all this was unfair. She had put in money and effort to be the understudy of a famous doctor, but this woman didn''t do anything and attained the same status as the professors, plus she was so pretty. If her aim was Mr. Kallum, then these two assistants weren''t going to stand a chance against her.


    "She just used a bunch of herbs to smoke her way through, what a shameless ploy - but the professors actually believed her! They probably gave her the benefit of the doubt on ount of the person who sent her...and she''s so pretty...looks like she''s another ambitious one!" Calista stopped in her tracks.


    The two assistants who were some distance away also stopped. They were so far away from her, surely she couldn''t have heard them?


    Calista turned around and red at the two women with her sparkly eyes.


    "So you want to say that I''m here to seduce someone? Or here to im credit for research?"


    She really heard them!


    One of them with a baby face, Willow Quinn, replied aggressively, "Both! I''ve seen every expert in the country, but I''ve never seen you before! Who knows where on earth you even appeared from? With such a foxy face, maybe you''re here to both im credit and seduce Mr. Kallum right? What a great n!"


    "Me? Come to seduce Kallum? And im credit?" Calista twirled her long hair as she asked coldly, "Remember to bring your brain along when you go out next time ok? Your professors don''t even dare to say any nonsense to me, what are you?"N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    When Calista was tired, her tongue became a thousand times more poisonous, and these daughters of wealthy families understudying famous professors almost vomited blood on the spot.


    "And who said herbs can''t treat illnesses?" Calista coldly curled her lips and looked pitifully at Willow, "If you don''t know enough then don''t shoot your mouth off like that. Fletcher has been a genius all his life, but he actually took people like you to be his disciples in his old age - I - I fear he might die early."


    "You! How dare you speak to me like this! Do you know who I am?!" Willow ignored her friend''s attempts to hold her back and took a step forward, her face ready to confront this hussy in front of her!


    "I''m from the Quinn family in Summerbank! Mr. Kallum can even be considered my cousin, so don''t think that just because you''re sent here by the Fairchilds, you can treat other people like dirt! You''re just a doctor!"


    A rtive? That was definitely way too farfetched.


    Calistaughed even more beautifully, and coldness shone in her sparkly eyes. There was an indescribable disdain in her gaze.


    "Wow I would never have known that you''re Kallum''s cousin! Alright then, that makes me your cousin-inw, why don''t you greet me that way?"


    Cousin-inw? Willow had never seen such a shameless woman in her life!


    "Dream on! Mr. Kallum is mine! I bandaged his wounds when he was injured! What are you? You''re not even fit to dream about Mr. Kallum!"


    "It''s not her who''s dreaming of me,


    I''m the one dreaming about her," Kallum felt that if he didn''te out and handle this situation, his reputation was going to be torn to pieces by these two women He didn''t even recall any woman bandaging his wounds.


    He smiled and took Calista''s hand in his, but nced coldly at the two women who had gone white in the face.


    "I''m just curious - since when did I have an additional cousin?"


    "No...that...Mr. Kallum, I can exin..."


    Kallum just turned to Ryder and said, "Call someone to send them back. I don''t need any spoilt brats here." "Got it."


    Ryder''s response made the two


    women''s faces turn ashen. Their families had made so much effort to send them here but they were going


    to be sent back so quickly - they would surely be punished!


    But of course, Kallum didn''t even think about any of this. He held Calista''s hand as they walked out, and suddenly couldn''t feel any more pain.


    "So you said that you''re her cousin-inw just now? So you admit to being my woman now?"


    He was smiling very gleefully now, unlike the vexed or solemn face he had on earlier. His smile always shone brighter than sunshine!


    Calista didn''t have any response to that. This was not the right time or ce to talk about things like that!


    "Let go! I''m going to take a nap."


    "Ok, I''ll take you!" Kallum brought Calista to his room. It was only a simple hospital ward, but the sheets were white and the floor was clean, which was rare in a time like this. Calista wiped herself and then copsed onto the bed. Kallum just sat next to the bed and looked at her, and she had no idea what he was thinking about.


    Even though Calista was very tired, it was difficult to sleep with someone watching her like that.


    "Why are you looking at me? What are you thinking about?"


    "I''m thinking about you!" Kallum smiled, "I thought about it very carefully and I still think it''s strange that you''vee here. Why did youe? Were you here to look for me?" Calista curled deeper into the nket and closed her eyes. She shouldn''t have asked!


    The corner of Kallum''s lips curled upwards. He drew his handsome face closer to her and whispered, "And you dashed out to save me in such a dangerous situation. Is it


    because you...have started liking me again?"


    There was still a lingering fragrance on him from having just bathed. Calista took a deep breath - she wasn''t able to answer this question herself either.


    Had shee to save lives? This desire had be stronger aftering here, but what made her want toe here in the first ce?


    "Callie...admit it? You like me!"


    Kallum''s low voice had hints of happiness in it. He removed his shoes and hopped onto the bed, and only a nket separated him and Calista as he put his face close to hers and gazed at her.

 Chapter 95 Do Not Disappoint Me

    Kallum was on top of her, and Calista opened her eyes in annoyance.


    "I just didn''t want Mrs. Fairchild to worry. She''s cried her eyes out because of you!"


    Calista''s response made Kallum freeze for a while, but then he pulled at her nket disapprovingly.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    "My uncle has already helped me to tell her that I''m fine. Come on, little liar, tell me the truth!"


    Calista used both hands to hang onto the nket and red at him.


    "I''ve seen simr cases before so I''m here to save lives! I''m capable of doing this, so why not? I want to be famous, ok?" Be famous?


    Kallum clenched his teeth, "You admitted to being my woman earlier!"


    Calista calmly replied, "I was just using that to silence her. You mean I can''t do that?"


    Kallum was going to go mad from the way this woman refused to admit the truth! Was it so hard to say that she hade here because of him?


    His deep purple eyes became more and more distant, but finally he kissed Calista on the lips as if he was venting his anger.


    All his yearning for her from the past month was suddenly awakened by this touch, his anger and indignation disappearing immediately, and was left with nothing but love and adoration. This woman of his was definitely cuter when she didn''t get to talk!


    In some sense, these two had a shocking way of getting along with one another.


    Calista wanted to resist when she was kissed, but the heat from Kallum was driving her crazy!


    "Callie...I miss you so much...so much..."


    These words were murmured while he was kissing her, and it was impossible to hear if one didn''t listen very carefully. It was hard to imagine that Kallum could possibly disy such...gentleness... "When I saw you...I was so happy to the point of madness, and I wanted to have you there and then!"


    After those words he focused on kissing her, and all the uneasiness and anxiety slowly dissipated with his heated kiss. Calista had to admit that she had started developing some feelings for Kallum again. What a tragedy - be it her previous life or her current one, was she destined to be enchanted by this man?


    Kallum''s thoughts were simpler. When he thought about how much danger she must have faced on her way here to look for him, his heart was going to melt! If she didn''t consider this liking him, then what? And so this time he kissed her lips without letting go as much as possible, as if he wanted to leave his scent all over her.


    There was another st heard outside, and in this sort of ce, they could lose their lives at anytime. At the same time, it was this sort of dangerous situation that could cause certain feelings to develop faster than usual.


    After Calista heard the st, she suddenly pulled Kallum closer to her. No matter what happened, she didn''t want this man to die here or even be injured.


    Calista''s actions made Kallum overjoyed. He immediately pulled the nket over himself and held Calista in his embrace. The closeness of their bodies made him feel satisfied, but also want more!


    He pulled the nket over their heads, and in the darkness of the nket, the sound of their kissing was clear and cloying, as if they were going to set each other on fire.


    Outside was a battle field filled with smoke and gunfire, while inside was a quiet and pleasant smelling hospital ward - it was as if these two universes were now merged together, creating a strange yet amazing sort of atmosphere. And because nobody knew if tomorrow woulde, there was a small crack in Calista''s icy heart. Under the nket, she was held tightly in Kallum''s embrace, and she felt a deep sense of security.


    Their bodies continued to rise in temperature. Calista''s body was emitting heat without her realizing, while Kallum''s eyes were bloodshot, and ready to use his body to prove how much he missed her.


    But suddenly the door opened with a bang! Kallum was on top of Calista, but immediately came to his senses the next second, and got off Calista and covered up her exposed shoulder.


    The person who came in immediately shrank back in shock and quickly shouted out, "I''m sorry I''m sorry I''m so sorry! I didn''t mean it! I...I was told by the professor toe here! There''s major progress in the research for a cure!" Julian was too excited when he heard this news and ended up barging into the room - he didn''t expect to be interrupting Kallum from having a good time!


    He wanted to cry...Would Mr. Kallum send him to the front line?


    Kallum clenched his teeth, angry at being interrupted before he had gotten what he wanted! His anger was certainly no weaker than the explosions happening outside.


    There was a snort, and Calista suddenlyughed.


    Kallum looked back at her strangely, but saw that Calista''s eyes were looking steadily at him.


    "What? You''re here on a military mission and you still want to continue? Can''t you be a bit more responsible?"


    Kallum''s ears turned red


    tel


    immediately. He was not being irresponsible, just that he couldn''t, control himself earlier! He wasn''t someone who lost all reason when faced with his own desires, but he...


    ...was especially unable to resist Calista, that''s all.


    After reporting everything, Julian quickly and sheepishly closed the door behind him and waited outside.


    Calista threw him a nce, "Get up, I''m going too."


    Kallum got up and then wrapped her in the nket.


    "You rest here, I''ll go. I''m sure you''ve not gotten a good sleep these few days," he frowned. "You''ve be skinnier already!" Calista didn''t know what to say.


    "They''ve made new discoveries on the items I brought to them. If I don''t go, then are you going to answer their questions?" Kallum raised an eyebrow. It was Calista''s contribution?


    Calista pushed him away with no sympathy, then got up to straighten out her clothes and put on her shoes.


    She was still a little flushed and her eyes were watery and bright from the earlier rush of emotions. When she red at Kallum, he went numb and had an indescribable desire in his heart.


    "Let''s go!" Kallum took Calista''s


    hand first. After he had fallen for Calista he never intended to hide anything, and seemed more like he wanted the whole world to know


    whe Calista belonged to!


    On the way, he started asking again, "You came here because of me right? That kiss earlier, I could feel that you were moved..."


    There were people walking behind them, and if not for Calista''s calmness, they wouldn''t know what to do with this man''s shameless questions! Her face grew even colder and even more distant.


    Kallum didn''t seem to care, "So what if you admit it? If you like me then you like me - given your current personality, you still want to be as shy as you used to be?"


    These words finally hit andmine in her heart. The one thing that Calista would not tolerate in this life was for anybody to say that she was the same as how she was in the past! The next moment, Kallum was pressed against the wall by Calista.


    The dozen bodyguards following didn''t know what happened, but it looked like Calista was going to beat up Kallum, and they weren''t sure if they should break the fight up.


    Kallum also realized that he had


    struck a sore spot in Calista and wanted to say something, but Calista fiercely pressed her lips against his with a deep frown on her face, as if she was thinking about an extremely difficult question. Then she stuck out her tongue and sent it one round in Kallum''s mouth. That domineering position making everyone go weak in the legs.


    Mr. Kallum...Mr. Kallum had been conquered!


    Kallum immediately gave in to Calista''s strong kiss, but those idiots behind him were making it hard for him to enjoy the moment!


    Couldn''t they gasp a little softer?!


    Kallum red at them and everyone quickly turned around.


    But Calista had let go of Kallum, and she was deep in thought as she looked up at this man in front of her.


    He was handsome, well built, from a good family and he liked her?


    He was also the only one she had slept with, and this was the man that eluded her despite liking him for so many years in her previous life - did she find it hard to resist him after all? Was she still going to fall for him after all?


    Her struggle was reflected in her eyes, and finally she let go of Kallum''s cor.


    "This time, don''t disappoint me again!" Otherwise, she didn''t know what she might do either!

 Chapter 96 Just Leaving Like That

    After saying that in a low voice, she walked off with aplicated expression on her face.


    Kallum touched his lips and couldn''t figure out what she meant.


    "Quintus?"


    "Here!" Quintus shouted with his back still facing Kallum.


    Kallum became a little excited, but he was still unsure.


    "What do you think Calista means?" Was it what he was thinking?


    Quintus was beginning to doubt Kallum''s intelligence at this point.


    "Ms. Calista has begun to give in, and she''s ready to give Mr. Kallum a chance!"


    "Really?!" Kallum''s eyes lit up and looked at his subordinates with bright eyes.


    "You sure that''s what she means?"


    With Kallum looking at them like that, they could only nod their heads in unison. They weren''t going to pour cold water on him!


    "HA!! I knew it!" Kallum pped his hands together and revealed his pearly whites in a wide smile.


    "I just knew it! Calista? Callie! Wait for me!"


    After that everything went smoothly - with the items that Calista passed to them, the research process advanced very quickly. They were looking for other drugs to perfect the form that could fight the influenza, and the three herbs that Calista gave them became the main focus of this group of medical experts.


    "What a promising youngdy!"


    A professor in his fifties sighed while eating lunch, feeling like this new generation was going to outdo him.


    "She is pretty impressive. Not just knowledgeable, but her foundation is very strong. And all the ideas she has are ahead of her time. She''s only eighteen - such talents are very hard toe by!"


    Another middle aged man with a moustache chipped in, "How nice if I get an understudy like that. I''m sure you know that sometimes I have no choice over who I get as my understudy, but I''ve never gotten a good one like that before!"


    Fletcher Bet was definitely the head of this group, and thought it a pity about Calista - she was Kallum''s fianc¨¦e, so nobody dared to insist on taking her as an understudy.


    The subject of their conversation was eating while writing and making some drawings.


    She was nearly there - she felt like she was almost able to replicate that antiviral capsule that was created in her previous life, but what was itcking?


    ""Eat first!"


    Everyone watched as Kallum pushed the bowl of food towards her. But Calista continued mumbling to herself as if she didn''t see anything.


    In the canteen, everyone was waiting to watch a good show. Watching Calista and Kallum interact everyday was a sort of entertainment for them.


    Who would have thought that the son of the Fairchilds, who was fierce in battle, intelligently strategizing and givingmands, and wielded even more power and influence back home, would be so...submissive in front of Calista!


    Kallum didn''t really care about the amused stares from the others, but when he saw that Calista ignored him, he clenched his teeth in annoyance at first, and then gave up. He ended up putting a spoonful of food at her mouth, and Calista naturally just ate each spoonful he put in front of her.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum''s angry face slowly became gentler and he continued to feed her, wiping her mouth now and then. If his father saw this, he would have thought his son was possessed!


    Oh my goodness! This scene was going to make everyone go blind!


    All the bodyguards and team members ate and stole nces at the couple at the same time.


    This handsome man and beautifuldy looked good together wherever they went, and now that this rich young man had gone from an arrogant and strong man to a gentle and sweet one...it really made everybody so excited all of a sudden!


    Resources were scarce, so the food quality was very poor. Kallum''s face didn''t even flinch as he ate, and he ate the same food and lived in the same ce as the rest to set an example.


    But now he was displeased. What was in this bowl? It was mushy and murky colored, so how could someone working her brains hard everyday like Callie eat something like this?


    "You just eat this first,ter I''ll get the cook toe over and arrange for someone to go hunt in the forest, then prepare some roasted meat for you tonight, ok?"


    Everyone nearly fainted from this show of favoritism!


    Thest time when someone''s assistantined that the food tasted bad, Kallum took her portion away and told her to settle her own food from now on! But then when the same food was given to Calista, now he felt bad for her? What about the rest of them? Calista threw a nce at him. If the heir to a huge conglomerate like Kallum could tolerate this food, she could too.


    So she replied, "No need, I think it''s quite tasty."


    Kallum immediately looked back at her gently - Callie was such a considerate person!


    His favoritism now knew no bounds.


    "Mr. Kallum, bad news!"


    "What happened?" Kallum''s expression immediately became serious. Earlier the air in the canteen was filled with sweetness and romanticism, but any announcement of bad news often meant that someone had died. "There''s a group making their way for us, well prepared, looks like around a thousand soldiers!"


    Kallum stood up, "The supporting troops plus us is how many people?"


    "Eight hundred."


    "Call the army to send support over, then gather everyone. We have more than enough weapons, so if they dare to attack us, we''ll kill them all!" ""Yes sir!"


    The murderous aura emanating


    from Kallum could set the air on fire!


    He looked at Fletcher with great seriousness and instructed him, "The enemy. must have realized what we were doing and they want to destroy what we''ve done so far. Fighting Influenza T is the key to this war so Professor Bet, your life is the most important. Later, bring everyone in the hospital towards the South Camp. Once we''ve managed to defend this spot, I''ll tell you toe back. If we don''t manage to defend this ce, then you must keep yourselves safe!"


    "That''s not really a good idea right?" Fletcher was in a dilemma. "Surely there will be arge number of casualtiester, so if we all leave, who will save the injured?"


    Kallum assured him, "I''ve brought a group of army doctors, so they''ll stay and you guys can go!"


    Fletcher wanted to stay and help, but he too knew what was more important now. His team was a group of medical professionals who were here to find a cure for the influenza. If they died, then the enemy''s n would work.


    So Fletcher nodded, took all the important documents and quickly escaped with the other professors. Kallum sent the men directly under him to make sure they reached the other side safely. There were only a few of them so they should be able to get there without attracting any attention.


    After giving out a string of orders, Kallumstly looked towards Calista.


    Behind his determination was a fear of sorts.


    Calista...he had be a burden to her. She was supposed to start school the next day, she was supposed to be in a ssroom!


    "You leave with Professor Bet!"


    Calista pursed her lips together, and then nodded, "You take care."


    She didn''t speak anymore and left, making Kallum both relieved but disappointed at the same time...


    He still had things to say, because he wasn''t sure if he would be able to survive this eminent attack. He was afraid that once he turned his back, it would be for forever.


    But Calista had long gone, and he could only grip his gun tightly.


    He had to survive this attack so that he could be together with her. That day she seemed to have agreed to give him a chance, and he didn''t press her for an answer because he felt that they still had time.


    If he survived this round, he was going to get a clear answer from her!


    A lot of onlookers felt their hearts


    grow cold. They had seen how Kallum had treated Calista during this short period of time, and they thought that Calista would definitely say that she wouldn''t leave and would go through this ordeal with Kallum. Who would have thought that she just turned and left without protesting!

 Chapter 97 Made Him Like Her So Much

    On the road out, the soldiers and the professors with Calista looked like they wanted to say something but stopped themselves. Calista smiled. "You guys want to ask me why I didn''t stay behind?"


    One of the young soldiers nodded. Kallum had brought him along from Chanaea and he was a very loyal subordinate. This was the first time he had seen Kallum like someone so much, and even though thisdy here was very intelligent, she seemed too coldhearted. Calista stifled augh as she said, "You guys don''t know him. If I had said that I want to stay, then either the entire team would have to stay, or he''s going to tie me to a car out."


    Everyone looked a little shocked at this, but Calista looked back at the hospital behind them and calmly said, "I definitely want to stay, but he''s very busy now and I don''t want to quarrel with him. I''m here to save lives, but the medical research part is Professor Bet''s mission. So we''ll split up into two teams. Professor Bet, take Professor Turner and Professor Lawson with you, and some of you should follow them. Quintus, take ten men and follow me."


    Calista finished giving out her orders and dragged Quintus along. He was still in a daze - Mr. Kallum had instructed them to protect Ms. Calista, but now she wasn''t going to follow instructions. Should he inform Mr. Kallum?


    Calista threw him a nce, "This is for the good of Kallum, you sure you want to tell him?"


    Quintus suddenly felt his body shiver! Ms. Calista was so scary! She could read minds!


    Kallum had a lot of mixed feelings now, and his face was grim as he brought his troops out. Upon seeing this, Gunner unhappilymented, "Ms. Stafford is not worth your effort." This woman was obviously afraid to die so she left without saying anything. How was she worthy of Mr. Kallum?


    Kallum''s face instantly fell as he nced at Gunner, "After this battle is over I''ll deal with you when we go back! I don''t need subordinates who question me!"


    Gunner immediately felt like he had been unfairly treated, and Ryder patted him on the back, "Think about it in another way. If Ms. Calista really only cared about herself and was afraid to die, she wouldn''t havee here."


    Gunner''s unhappy face suddenly froze and he felt that Ryder''s words actually made sense.


    The moment the first shot was fired, both parties started their confrontation in a town that no longer had anybody left in. The firearms used were powerful enough to pulverize a human, and there were many deaths as well as many casualties, but nobody dared to move any of the casualties because any movement could mean death.


    At this time, Calista was behind Kallum''s troop. She brought her men to search around the town and finally set her eyes on a truck that could spray water.


    In this dpidated ce, it didn''t really matter what destructive action she took anymore. So why not give it a shot?


    The battle became fiercer but suddenly there was water shooting out from the houses on both sides of the rebel soldiers. The soldiers were confused for a few moments - who was giving them a bath at this time?


    But they soon realized what was really going on. The water made their skin feel like it was on fire, and even though it didn''t cause actual damage to their skin, it was very painful!


    They quickly took aim at the houses where the water wasing from while trying to avoid the onught of painful rain, and many died in the process.


    "Someone is helping us."


    This should have been good news to Kallum, but he could feel his eyebrow twitching violently, and his heart was unable to find peace.


    "Cover those people who are helping us!"


    "Yes sir!"


    Calista could hear Kallum''smands from a distance and her lips curled slightly into a smile.


    In a few moments, a truck spraying water suddenly veered in from the side and was headed for the rebel troops!


    There was nobody in the truck, but the nozzle was spraying water everywhere. The rebel soldiers were drenched with the poisoned water, and even though it was painful, they could still tolerate the pain. They were afraid there was a bomb on the truck so they didn''t block it but only avoided it, causing all of them to be covered with the water and making them very angry indeed.


    From afar, Calista watched the situation and spoke into the walkie-talkie, "Start n 2."


    Upon hearing this, Quintus quickly took action. The men took out bundles of what looked like tree branches from the hospital storeroom and Calista poured a lot of powder on them. After lighting them on fire, ck greenish smoke started blowing towards the enemy camp. The smoke was billowing from behind Kallum, so the enemy troops didn''t take much notice of it. Quintus created several bonfires, and it used up all the powder that Calista had.


    During this time she had made preparations. She was prepared for another attack from the enemy, and wasn''t joking around when she ordered Kallum''s men to go into the forest every day.


    The smoke got thicker and thicker, and while Kallum''s men only felt that the smell was a little pungent, the enemy side started screaming in pain.


    The smoke had reacted with something in the water earlier, and all those who were wet felt like someone had poured sulfuric acid on them, the pain so great that they weren''t able to hold on to their weapons anymore.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum was surprised by what was


    happening, but if they didn''t take this chance to attack, then when? They~~ quickly seized the opportunity tounch their attack, causing bodies and blood to fly everywhere, blood curdling and screams ringing continuously.


    They quickly advanced forward, leaving behind all the injured


    soldiers. Calista quickly got


    everyone in the hospital to pull the casualties in for treatment, their actions quick and orderly. Kallum was in front attacking the enemy, while Calista hadpletely fulfilled Julian''s duties of tidying up the back. Her face was calm and


    fearless, assuring everyone''s hearts.


    "Reporting to Ms. Calista! All casualties have been sent to the hospital!"


    Quintus now looked at Calista with respect in his eyes, and even used the word ''reporting''.


    Calista smiled faintly, "Very good. We don''t need you guys here anymore, go help the front lines!"


    "Yes ma''am!" All ten of them quickly grabbed their weapons and ran to the front. Every additional person was one more source of strength!


    Kallum was feeling rather rxed now. Even though he was injured, but the other side was being beaten into retreat, making him feel really good now! Suddenly he focused his eyes!


    "Quintus?!!" It was as if he had seen a ghost! If Quintus was here, then...


    When he heard Kallum call his name, Quintus swiftly made his way over, "Mr. Kallum! I''m back!"


    Quintus'' ted voice was waiting for some words of praise, but Kallum was ready to kill him now!


    He dragged Quintus to one side and asked fiercely, "Where''s Calista?"


    The moment he mentioned Calista, Quintus'' eyes lit up!


    "Mr. Kallum, you have no idea how amazing Ms. Calista is! She had already made preparations in advance, and those poisonous fumes were made by us..." Before he could finish, Kallum''s eyes were bloodshot from pure rage.


    "She came back? Didn''t she leave already?!"


    Quintus kept aside his admiration for Calista and looked enviously at Kallum. "Ms. Calista was afraid that you''d nag at her and dy what needs to be done, so she didn''t want to quarrel with you and just left But we didn''t go far before turning back... Ms. Calista didn''t intend to leave you here from the very beginning. Ms. Calista... really likes Mr. Kallum..."


    Kallum''s heart warmed up upon hearing this. Even his eyes were feeling warm!


    This irritating woman! So disobedient! So unafraid of death! And made him like her so much!


    "D*mn it! Where is she now?"


    "She''s attending to the casualties now. Ms. Calista told me to tell you that if you''re injured, nobody is to attend to your wounds. She asked you to settle it yourself!" Kallum''s lips finally couldn''t help but turn upwards. He whacked Quintus hard as he said, "I''ll deal with youter!"


    Then he turned and confidently walked out with his gun to continue the battle!


    He was now filled with unceasing energy and motivation, and wanted to look up into the sky and shout for joy!

 Chapter 98 The Antiviral Is Complete

    They were going to get married the minute they went back! He didn''t care! The crossfire continued.


    At the end of this well nned battle, Kallum''s side naturally won, and the moment this was confirmed, Calista immediately called Fletcher and the rest toe back.


    After Kallum had finished the battle, he left his men to clean up the rest while he made his way quickly to the hospital. When he reached the entrance he finally realized that he looked very desperate now, so he forced himself to walk slower, straightened his back and sauntered in confidently!


    The hall was filled with stretchers because many were injured. The medical workers ran in and out between the stretchers with great haste.


    The news of their win washed away most of the sadness and heavy air in the hospital. Many were injured, but few had perished in this battle, so the mood improved greatly.


    Kallum took one look at the room and immediately found Calista. She was wearing the same thing as everyone else, but Calista stood out. She had ited her long ck hair and was kneeling in front of a patient and bandaging his wounds. Her exquisite side profile was beautiful beyond words, her clear skin virtually able to emit light.


    She pursed her lips together tightly and focused on what she was doing, and there seemed to be no more aggression left in her. This seemed to be the most peaceful and emotionally stable state Kallum had seen of her during this period of time. "Alright done. Don''t let the wound touch water, go have a good rest."


    Calista''s voice was still very cold as she gave these instructions in a mild voice. She stood up and her distant gaze fell on Kallum and her eyes focused.


    Kallum wanted to smile at her, but he couldn''t smile anymore after seeing Calista''s pale face.


    The huge amount of poison that she used earlier must have taken a lot of effort to prepare. He was still wondering why Calista had been so busy these few days, often working through the night, and it was actually all to help him... This girl really didn''t know how to take care of herself at all!


    When he thought about how she disobediently came running back, joined the battle, and rejected his protection, he became very angry! He even clenched his teeth when he was looking at her now.


    "Didn''t I tell you to leave? Why did youe back? Aren''t you afraid that..."


    "You have no confidence in yourself? Or no confidence in me?" Calista quietly cut him off, lifted her pretty chin and looked at him.


    "Nowhere is really safe here, so where do you think I can go? Or you think I''m still that useless coward from before?"


    Who talked about themselves like that!


    Kallum nearly wanted to smile but he suppressed it.


    Her trust in him made Kallum''s heart so happy that it was about to burst. The woman in front of him now made him angry, but the more he looked at her, the more he liked her. Everybody was looking at them now, so Kallum dragged Calista to one side and said seriously, "Let''s get married once we get back!"


    If not for Calista''s calm demeanor, anybody else would have beenpletely shocked by Kallum''s crazy jump in logic.


    Did she say something that made him misunderstand? Why was Kallum suddenly proposing to her now? She only wanted to give him a chance so that she could observe him. "I''m only eighteen..."


    "We can register in another country," Kallum''s eyes brightened.


    "It''s too fast, I haven''t thought about..." whether she really wanted to be with him or not...


    "Not fast at all! You just have to appear. In fact I''ve already thought about what to name our child and where he will go to school!" Kallum cut her off again.


    Calista quietly swallowed the blood that she felt like vomiting. Wasn''t Kallum being too extreme here? The way he liked someone was to immediately bind her to him, and there wasn''t even a chance for her to reject him.


    But she couldn''t deny that there was a tiny bit of happiness deep down in Calista''s heart.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "We''ll see," Calista kept on a serious face. "I never said I''d definitely marry you."


    "If you won''t marry me, then who will you marry?" Kallum raised an eyebrow, his face clouded over as if a storm was on its way.


    Calista snorted quietly and threw him a dirty look "Your childhood friend is going toe back soon, you''d better settle her first."


    Calista saw that Fletcher and the rest had returned and quickly ran over to greet them.


    She left Kallum alone in a corner, unable to talk about the pain he felt... What childhood friend? He had grown up with Mirabelle, but he grew up with Calista too! Besides, Calista was his fianc¨¦e! What other childhood friend was she talking about... Calista on the other hand, was feeling pretty rxed.


    After Fletcher and the team had settled back in, she suddenly threw shocking words at them. "Professor Bet, I think I am confident of taking the Influenza T virus down already."


    When she was making the poison earlier, she had not stopped thinking about the antiviral capsule. Their form was nearly perfect, and it was missing just onest thing!


    But what exactly was thisst thing? After experimenting with so many drugs, they still couldn''t get it.


    Traditional medicine was generally gentle on the body, and they needed something that would bind the variousponents together as well as increase its intensity at the same time. Did something like exist at all?


    Calista had previously experimented with several drugs used in modern medicine as well as traditional medicinal herbs that were milder, but nothing worked.


    Something in her brain clicked after she had flung all that poison out just now.


    The poison she had prepared beforehand used a special sort of flower found nearby, the Venomthorn flower.


    Its poisonous properties were very unique - it could absorb other particles for its own use, and its high toxicity levels could increase the medicinal properties of other herbsbined with it instantly...was there anything else more suitable than this?! Fletcher was shocked when he heard what she said, "You sure?"


    They had onlye for a few days and were able to treat an influenza strain that had ravaged the whole of Lostaria? This was a first!


    Calista smiled gently, "I''m sure about


    the properties of Venomthorn, but


    I''m not sure if it will bind with our current form, so I''ll need everyone''s help! Unfortunately that means you guys can''t get any rest, we meet in theb after 30 minutes!"


    "Sure!"


    "No problem!"


    Everyone was extremely excited! Being able to fight this terrifying influenza with their own hands was the most meaningful thing they could do aftering here!


    Nobody had realized that they had slowly started regarding Calista as the team leader. The ability that she had shown during this time was enough for them to concede defeat. After some days, there was a celebratory shout from the researchb!


    As Calista had expected, with the addition of Venomthorn, the antiviral capsule had been sessfully created.


    Compared to the one made in her


    previous life, Calista had modified the proportions, resulting in a stronger capsule. As such, there were side effects including causing dizziness and nausea, but that was


    due to the poison of the


    Venomthorn and she couldn''t get rid


    of that.


    With the antiviral avable, the enemy side was thrown in chaos. The citizens would know who the enemy really was once news of the antiviral had spread through the whole country!


    With the change of heart among the


    citizens, this war that was supposed tost another year or two would probably end in less than half a year, but none of this mattered to Calista anymore. Once the antiviral waspleted, she prepared to return home. School had started long ago,


    and if she didn''t go back on, she


    was going to miss the exam to qualify for the advanced ss.

 Chapter 99 I Will Wait For You To Come Back

    Kallum still had many things to settle so he had to stay behind and oversee the battle, but it would be over soon.


    There was still fighting going on, but it was clear that they were winning against the rebel troops. In order to avoid getting into any conflict with any desperate soldiers from the enemy side, Kallum had chased Calista to go back for a long time, and he had chased her many times now. Calista was packing her things, and Kallum had to continue his mission, which was to send thest batch of firearms. The two of them would have to go separate ways, and Kallum was very reluctant.


    Why did this country have to go through civil war? If there was no war, wouldn''t this be a great time to develop their rtionship?!


    But if there was no war, then Calista wouldn''te. Besides, now Calista was willing to give him a chance, so that was the greatest reward he received foring here.


    "Go back and wait for me!" Kallum hugged her tightly. There was so much he wanted to say, but he suddenly didn''t know what to say when she was really leaving.


    Calista said in a serious voice, "I''m pretty useful around here, you sure you don''t want me to stay and help you? I can take a few more days of leave from school."


    "No need." Kallum''s eyes smiled when he heard this. Calista was worried about him and this was a great improvement from before!


    But how could he not worry about her?


    He replied in an equally serious voice, "Once the antiviral is administered, those rebel soldiers would be forced into a corner and would do even more insane things. So it''s too dangerous to stay here. Be good and go back first."


    Calista saw that he was very insistent this time, so she gave up trying to convince him otherwise. She had altered the future quite a bit this time bying here, but Kallum was probably not in danger of being hurt anymore. Kallum was due to go back after sending thisst batch of firearms anyway, so he would return only a few dayster than her.


    Calista nodded and Kallum sent her all the way to the helicopter.


    Fletcher and the team was going to stay on for a while more, and Calista was the only one going back, so only a small helicopter had been arranged for her return. But everyone was here to send Calista off.


    In this short span of time, everyone had started to like this taciturn but extremely focused youngdy. Regardless of whether she was poisoning people or healing people, her expression remained cold and distant. But this iciness did not make her seem heartless, but actually helped to calm everyone else down, as if with her around, there was nothing too difficult to handle.


    After researching together and surviving this ordeal together, Calista had be a very well loved friend of theirs.


    "Youngdy, I hear you''re a student at Bayview University?"


    Calista nodded, "So don''t tell anybody about my contributions to the antiviral, because I want to be able to study in peace."


    Fletcher''s eyes were filled with approval for her. She was young but didn''t care for fame. With someone like that around, he didn''t have to worry about the next generation of doctors!


    He nodded, "Don''t worry about it. After we get back, these few uncles here want to treat you to dinner, so you''d bettere!"


    Calista nodded, "I''ll definitely be there."


    After everyone had said their goodbyes, Kallum passed Calista her backpack.


    Even though they had not publicly said that they were a couple, but everybody had already treated them as if they were, and now there was fondness in their eyes.


    The helicopter got ready to take off, the sound of the rotor whirring made everyone take several steps back and they couldn''t hear the conversation between Kallum and Calista clearly.


    In the strong wind, Kallum held onto Calista''s hand and passed her the backpack. Calista meant to leave after taking the backpack, but Kallum was still holding on tightly to her hand!


    Did he still have anything to tell her? Wasn''t he supposed to send thest batch of firearms soon? That was the more urgent thing at hand, so anything else could wait till after he returned. Strangely enough, Kallum felt like he could read Calista''s thoughts.


    He couldn''t help but break into a smile.


    After all that he had experienced in this time, Kallum was shining even more brightly than before, his beautiful dark purple eyes now looked like little half moons under his tousled hair, and Calista really liked him being this dazzling but she couldn''t express it. "You know something? I''m really thankful to my mum!" Kallum bent down and spoke loudly next to her ear.


    Calista was stunned for a while, before he continued, "I''m really her son after all. Whatever she chooses for me will always be the best."


    Including his wife!


    Calista began to blush at these words, especially with everyone looking at them fondly.


    Kallum instantly noticed her blushing, and he bent down to kiss Calista''s lips as if he was enchanted by her.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    It was only a light kiss, but it was even more moving to the onlookers than a deep kiss.


    To be able to see true love in such a ce was so precious.


    It wasn''t the first time Calista was kissed by Kallum, but this time he had only kissed her lightly, and she felt something like an electric current running through her.


    Kallum''s unique manly scent mixed with the refreshing smell on himself and wrapped itself around Calista.


    Calista couldn''t help but look up at him.


    She knew his ability, looks and


    personality; sometimes he was arrogant, sometimes he was needy, sometimes, he was fierce,


    sometimes he was anxious. He had disyed all these different sides of himself to her, and it didn''t matter whether it was her previous life or her current one - she simply couldn''t get away from this bewitching man...


    When he had gently and carefully kissed her so lightly, her heart suddenly felt like it was being squeezed.


    She quietly nted a quick kiss on his lips and suddenly smiled, "I''ll wait for you toe back."


    With that, she hopped on the helicopter without looking back.


    Kallum''s face was tense, but inside he was so happy that he wanted to scream loudly!


    So this was being in love? So this was how it felt when two people were in love with each other?!


    Kallum watched the helicopter leave for several moments before finally turning around. Once he turned around, the gentle look in his eyes waspletely overtaken by fierceness. He wanted to quickly settle everything here and go back to look for her! That''s right! "Gather up everyone! Prepare all weapons! Let''s go!"


    Everyone lifted their guns high and replied in unison, "YES SIR!"


    On the flight back, Calista called Benedict to let him know that she was safe. Benedict had tried calling her some days back but couldn''t get through, so Kallum called home and asked his mother to tell Benedict that his daughter was fine. After making the call, Calista closed her eyes to rest.


    After going back, the first thing she wanted to do was to bathe. There was constant dust and dirt in the air, plus bodies and blood as well as screams and howls everywhere - home was still the best ce to be.


    The pilot was a chatty person, and because Calista was his only passenger, he had no choice but to chat with this one passenger even though it was obvious that she didn''t like talking.


    "Ms. Stafford, you''re really


    something! You know what the


    international media has been reporting about Influenza T? They said it''s not possible to fight this virus without at least another year or two of research, so they have to be careful to quarantine all patients and contain the virus, otherwise this could be a global crisis! But the moment you arrived, everything was settled so easily! When I think of how those people are going to be so stunned by this news, I feel likeughing!"


    Calista didn''t say anything. The


    media had done a pretty good analysis of the situation. This virus was extremely contagious and could mutate within the patient''s body, making it very hard to fight. She was able to create the antiviral capsule only because she had the advantage of foresight and remembered the


    majorponents from her previous life.


    But when she thought about how many people would be able to survive as a result of this sess, Calista felt pretty good too, and smiled a little.


    "Ms. Stafford, you''re really such a good match with Mr. Kallum! Mr. Kallum used to be so aloof, and always felt unapproachable. But after he started liking you, he became friendlier! Now he''s more approachable, and I''m sure Mrs. Fairchild would be very happy to know


    this!"

 Chapter 100 Bad News

    After hearing these words, Calista didn''t know how to respond at all. Kallum was still under observation, but why did everyone around her seem to think she was definitely marrying him?


    Calista shook her head and was about to speak when suddenly there was a loud whoosh followed by a loud st! A missile had hit the rotor des, causing the helicopter to lean to one side, followed by the shrill rm to indicate that the operating system had failed. "Bad news! The helicopter has gone out of control!" the pilot shouted loudly. They were under attack, so Calista quickly put on the parachute.


    The helicopter was veering left and right and was spiraling down towards a forested area.


    The pilot was really unable to control the helicopter anymore, so he shouted, "Jump!"


    Then he was ejected by the seat.


    When she saw that the helicopter had lost control, Calista immediately jumped out as well. Shortly after she jumped, another missile came and hit the helicopter body.


    The helicopter exploded in midair, and one of the fragments wounded Calista''s thigh. Calista couldn''t attend to her wound now, because she could see that she was falling fast. She opened the parachute in time, narrowly escaping death.


    Was that an ident, or were they purposelying for her?


    Kallum had been ambushed too!


    This ambush was a really crazy one! The enemy definitely wanted him dead.


    Given Kallum''s high standing, if he died in Lostaria, this would deal a great blow to the Lostarian government.


    Kallum had not only brought firearms, but even fought off their secret weapon - Influenza T! The rebel soldiers hated Kallum to the core! They weren''t able to kill him thest few rounds, and they realized how powerful Kallum''s side was. So this time they sent two groups of their best men to nk Kallum''s side. Kallum made use of thendform to send them round and round, dispersing them again and again, but this was definitely the fiercest battle he had fought.


    Finally the enemy side surrendered after Kallum used such aggressive tactics. After making sure that none of the remaining rebel soldiers had explosives on them and confiscating all their weapons, Kallum wiped away the blood on his body, his bloodshot gaze watching those who surrendered.


    "Mr. Kallum, twenty seven people are dead!"


    Julian said this with hatred in his eyes! They had been through so many battles, but this was the biggest loss they had suffered so far!


    So he coldly asked, "Mr. Kallum, we''ll just kill them, right?"


    These soldiers would only get in the way if they had to bring them along.


    Kallum nodded. It wasn''t because he was coldblooded, but in a ce like this, everyone who wasn''t one of his was an enemy!


    The moment he nodded, one of the captives who was around ten years old, suddenly stood up among the crowd.


    Once he stood up, all guns were aimed at him. In this sort of ce, even a child could pose a risk.


    He could tell that they were about to be killed, so the child interrupted them in time, "You can''t kill me! Unless you don''t care about Calista anymore?"


    He had said this in Uronian, but Kallum immediately froze when he heard this.


    "What do you mean?"


    He had pressed the button on hismunication device while asking, trying to send a signal to the helicopter that Calista had boarded, but there was no response from the other side.


    "We''ve already taken that helicopter down!" The young boy stood up straight with a twisted look in his eyes - he had obviously been brainwashed well.


    "If you want her to live, then hand over all the firearms you have!"


    He came closer to Kallum with every word. Even though they had checked him for explosives and confiscated all his weapons, Kallum''s men managed to block the young boy in time and did not allow him to go any nearer to Kallum. But Kallum was anxious now! He red fiercely at the little boy, "Where is she?!"


    The little boy''s dirty face started to panic when Kallum red at him with such frightening eyes.


    Suddenly one of the captives stood up. He looked up and roared, then exploded on the spot!


    "D*mn it! There are explosives in their bodies!"


    There was unrest among the men - even though any bombs they could hide in their bodies were very small and the damage done would only be within 3 yards or so, it was still very dangerous!


    Soon after, the captives started exploding, one after another. Blood and flesh went flying everywhere, as if they were in hell.


    What was going on? They would rather kill themselves than be killed?


    "Don''t go over! Kill them from afar!" Kallum felt that something was not quite right. Julian was all prepared to go over, so Kallum coldly gave this order and stopped him in time.


    With thismand, everyone picked up their guns.


    The enemy had not expected Kallum to be so sharp, so they made a rush for Kallum''s men as their final attack!


    But the moment they moved, they


    were met with bullets, and the sound of gunfire and explosives rang


    continuously. When the little boret


    saw that everyone''s attention was on that side, he broke free of those hotding him down and rushed at Kallum.


    Kallum felt someoneing for him


    and instantly took him down with one bullet. The scene in front of him was very creepy and he really wanted to know what had happened to Calista, but he knew that this brainwashed child would not tell him anything, so it was better to just kill him off.


    As he died next to Kallum''s feet, there was a twisted smile on the little boy''s face.


    He wasn''t going to make it, but since he was going to die, he wanted everyone to die with him.


    Finally all the captives were dead.


    All was quiet now - it was really scary when people were unafraid to die.


    Kallum looked at the dead bodies strewn all over the ce, and the news of Calista being possibly captured was making him mad with worry!


    They lit a fire and burned all the bodies. Kallum didn''t allow them to go near, so they did not touch any of the bodies.


    The team continued moving forward, but Kallum suddenly stopped.


    "Gunner, you bring the team and send the firearms as scheduled. Ryder, you''reing with me."


    Kallum''s words shocked everyone. "You can''t do that, Mr. Kallum. We can''t do without you to lead us!" Julian said with some difficulty.


    "But I''m afraid something has happened to Callie!"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Everyone suddenly quietened down.


    After following Kallum for so long, Kallum was always on top of everything, confident of winning. This was the first time they had heard him say that he was afraid of something. Kallum''s brows were deeply furrowed, "She came because of me, so I can''t let anything happen to her. All of you go ahead - once I''m sure she''s ok, I''ll catch up with you!"


    When Kallum gave orders, everyone else could only obey and some left the team. A ne was arranged and once on board, Kallum coldly said, "Go to the forest at the Mirewood River."


    He was saying this while checking


    themunication device, and


    realized that Calista''sst signal was


    at the Mirewood River. If anything had happened to that helicopter, it should have happened in that area.


    But Kallum suddenly coughed violently and felt his body temperature rise sharply. His temperature rose so suddenly and so quickly, and he vomited another mouthful of blood.


    "Mr. Kallum! What''s happened to you?"


    Kallum stretched an arm out to stop Ryder froming any closer, the veins on his arm on the verge of popping, as if he was trying to endure something within him.


    "Ryder, we might have fallen for their trap!" Kallum suddenly said seriously.


    From the beginning of the ambush until they exploded and died, those people didn''t look like they were afraid to die at all. The final scene of their flesh and blood flying everywhere proved this point. But then if they weren''t afraid to die, why did they surrender their weapons?


    Kallum had realized this, so that''s why he didn''t allow anybody to go near, and set all the bodies on fire after they were all dead.

 Chapter 101 Taken Hostage

    Amidst the turmoil, several fighters had inadvertently ventured dangerously close to the adversary''s lines. Ultimately, when the foes executed their self-destruction strategy, though these fighters pulled back, the visceral aftermath scattered far and wide-flesh and blood


    flung across the battlefield. Tragically, some were caught in this ghastly spray, among them Kallum, who bore the brunt of it.


    Ryder''s expression darkened as he remarked, "Mr. Kallum, are you insinuating that..."


    Just then, hismunication device began to chime insistently. He swiftly attended to the call, and the voice of Quintus, tinged with panic, permeated the line from the other end.


    "There''s a dire situation, Ryder! A handful of us, about four or five, have started feeling terribly ill. Those individuals who attempted to thwart our efforts earlier, they''re all carriers of the disease!"


    Ryder was struck by an overwhelming sense of disbelief. What manner of illness could manifest so quickly and spread with such virulence?


    A sudden flicker of dread pierced his thoughts. "K Virus!"


    Kallum spat out yet another mouthful of blood. The phrase "K Virus" simultaneously shed across his consciousness. For the first time in his existence, a profound sense of fear overtook him. Should it indeed be the K Virus, the likelihood that he might never againy eyes on Calista was agonizingly high. That departure they had recently might well have been their final goodbye.


    Ryder was dumbfounded by the severity of the situation. The contingent that had just departed numbered in the thousands-two thousand, to be precise. If all were to fall victim to this virus, merely to target Kallum, it spoke volumes of the enemy''s mercilessness; it was almost demonic in nature.


    What was more, the K Virus, known for being incurable, would not typically be unleashed unless there was an intent to decimate an entire nation to obliterate the very fabric of the world!


    The virus, which first surfaced over two centuries ago, had imed upward of a million lives since its emergence.


    When the initial outbreak struck Turlen, the globalmunity of virus research experts converged to try to manage the situation.


    Despite their efforts, the virus proved unstoppable and incurably lethal, spreading swiftly and universally fatal within a month. During those despairing times, the grim recourse was to euthanize those afflicted. Their remains were incinerated inrge numbers, their ashes buried deep underground.


    Over a hundred years previously, an epidemic had devastated an entire city. Ultimately, the entire area was cordoned off under strict quarantine. The government of Turlen mandated that all residents remain indoors, effectively sealing all exits and condemning the inhabitants to a fate of istion. To this day, that ce remains deserted, now notorious as a haunted ghost town where, if one dares to visit at night, the eerie sounds of frantic knocking can still be heard.


    If the entire group of people was infected, this could spell the end of Lostaria.


    At that moment, Kallum, still able to think clearly, hastilymunicated with the Lostarian government, alerting them to the potential resurgence of the K Virus. The officials, upon realizing the gravity of the threat, quickly dispatched their most elite unit to tackle the virus with decisive and rapid action.


    Fortunately, the scene of the recent encounter had been a deserted urban area, which aided significantly in containing any potential spread of the virus.


    Kallum remainedposed as he


    issued another directive, this time to Gunner, to quarantine the afflicted individuals and transport them to


    the military district. Though the K


    Virus was formidable, a


    development had been


    ???


    the


    form of an antibody. If administered


    within the first two hours of


    infection, it offered a slim one


    percent chance of survival.


    He then ryed a detailed message back to his home nation, emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining national defense measures.


    Soon, the physical toll became too much for him, and beads of sweat the size of beans began to form and trickle down his forehead.


    "Hurry back! Get to the military district! There''s still a chance if we administer the antibodies now..." Ryder urgently directed the pilot, who promptly executed a sharp turn.


    Meanwhile, Kaiser tried to speak but found himself overwhelmed, unable to articte a word. Those afflicted with the K Virus typically suffered a fever for three days, with many sumbing to the fever alone.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    At that precise moment, Kallum''smunication device unexpectedly rang again. He instinctively answered, only to be greeted by a shrill voice that resonated with menacing calm. "Mr. Kallum... Your reputation precedes you..." Kallum tensed, biting his tongue to maintain his focus, yet the voice on the other line continued with a measured cadence.


    "Although we''ve never met, Mr. Kallum, you''ve caused me considerable suffering. There''s a proverb in your nation, ''reprisal for a wrong should be directed at the


    perpetrator.'' If it weren''t for your"


    intervention, our military might have advanced unchecked. Your creation of the antiviral capsule thwarted what would have been a swift conquest of your nation! We''ve been strategizing this for decades, but you''ve thwarted every step. Mr.


    Kallum, surely you must realize who


    I am by now, correct?"


    Indeed, he recognized the voice as that of Uriah Jurickson, the mastermind of the unrest within Lostaria, a man of ambitious designs.


    Kallum''s eyes became bloodshot with fury as he demanded, "Where is Calista? Where is she!"


    "I had no idea you were such a romantic, Mr. Kallum. Initially, I dismissed her as a trivial matter, but clearly, I was mistaken," the voice taunted, followed by a sinister chuckle.


    Then, chillingly, the voice instructed, "Come, youngdy, tell him who you are."


    A palpable silence ensued, yet it felt as though Kallum sensed something, his voice quavering slightly. "Calista?"


    Calista herself had never anticipated finding herself in such dire straits. Shortly after her fall, she found herself encircled. Had it not been for her injured thigh, she might have evaded capture far more adeptly. Once captured, though, she quickly resigned herself to her fate.


    Kallum carried a significant burden,


    met


    not merely of personal attachment but of broader implications. She couldn''t allow herself to be used leverage against him. Thus, even when Uriah taunted her by prodding


    her wound with a knife, she


    remained stoically silent, a


    testament to her resolve.


    Uriah''s eyes gleamed with intrigue as he observed the young woman''s fortitude, finding her quite fascinating.

 Chapter 102 A One Percent Chance Of Survival

    Nevertheless, Kallum was absolutely convinced that Calista had been taken captive. With a heavy heart, he shut his eyes, experiencing a surge of anger unlike anything he had felt before. "What are your intentions?" Kallum inquired.


    "What do you think?" responded Uriah, his voice seething with a fury matching that of Kallum''s. "Due to your interference, all that I had my followers, my funds, my strategies-they''ve all been obliterated! I find myself on the verge of being hunted down, like a stray dog without a shelter, stripped of everything! What do you presume I intend to do now?"


    His tone was thick with deep-seated bitterness. The work of generations, from his father''s time to the present, had been on the cusp of seizing control of Lostaria, only to see their effortspletely dismantled by an outsider. What could his intentions possibly be? Gripping Calista''s face, a cold smirk curled on Uriah''s lips. "I demand the munitions you possess, and I demand your life!"


    In his desperation to flee, his desire to im Kallum''s life became evident-it was the only means to extinguish the rage that consumed his heart.


    Calista narrowed her eyes and spoke in a raspy voice. "Kallum... if you attempt to rescue me, I''ll kill myself first! Show some backbone! Don''t... forget your duties!"


    Kallum''s hand clenched tightly around themunicator upon hearing Calista''s voice.


    Calista''s words ignited a fury in Uriah. In a fit of rage, he struck her, the sound of the p traveling through themunicator and causing blood to once again trickle from the corner of Kallum''s mouth.


    "Did you orchestrate the virus infections among those people earlier? Do you know the gravity of your actions, Uriah?"


    Speaking of this drove Uriah to absolute fury. He had instructed his most trusted men to contract the K Virus. With over two thousand of his soldiers encircling and entrapping Kallum''s five hundred, he was convinced that, even if Kallum survived, he would inevitably contract the disease.


    Who could have foreseen that Kallum would remain so vignt? Not only did he maintain his distance, but he also ensured his followers did likewise. That explosion, despite its horrific aftermath, had not even grazed Kallum''s skin.


    When the news reached him, Uriah, ovee with rage, executed several of his own men on the spot.


    In essence, over two thousand of his men had perished fruitlessly, while Kallum had an extraordinary stroke of luck to have survived.


    Finding no other option, he thought to use Calista as leverage against his adversary. Surprisingly, this tactic had some effect.


    Uriah then ordered his men to drag Calista away before he bellowed into themunicator, "What am I doing? I''m exacting vengeance! Weren''t you deemed capable? If you could ovee Influenza T, then surely the K Virus would be manageable for you! But my patience has limits. If you genuinely care for this woman, then exchange your munitions and your life, for her!"


    At that moment, he was oblivious to the fact that Kallum, despite his cautious nature, had also be ill. Otherwise, he would have surely fled, rather than deliberately walking into a trap.


    A spark of murderous intent red in Kallum''s eyes. The adversary had lost all reason, and Kallum found himself at a loss for words with such a madman.


    "Where are you?" Suppressing his rage, he asked, each word measured and deliberate.


    "I''m at Mount Goldfall! You have two hours. If you fail to appear within that time frame, this woman''s life is forfeit! Also, you may only bring four people with you and four vehicles of munitions. That should suffice, right?" "Of course," Kallum responded. It''s more than enough to kill you!


    After themunication ended, Kallum''s eyes were bloodshot with fury. He tilted his head, giving a chilly nce to Ryder. "I remember that the individual we developed in Lostaria was stationed near Mount Goldfall, correct?" Ryder, taken aback, responded, "Mr. Kallum, that''s our primary team in Lostaria. Mr. Fairchild had instructed that it should not be disturbed unless the country is facing imminent destruction!"


    Kallum narrowed his eyes, a cold chuckle escaping him, "This is a critical juncture for the survival of Lostaria! If Uriah had the audacity to unleash the K Virus once, he would not hesitate to do so again! If he does not perish, before his


    nov


    departure, Lostaria will certainly face ruin! Therefore, he must not be allowed to escape with his life."


    Any man bold enough to harm his beloved would inevitably face dire repercussions, potentially even death.


    "When Ryder heard these firm words, he yielded somewhat. He quickly issued amand, then addressed Kallum with a noticeably stern voice.


    You really must make your way to the military district for the vine, Mr. Kallum. If this truly is the K Virus, we ought to seize even that slim one percent chance of survival! You will be safe, you must trust that!""" However, time was a luxury Kallum did not possess.


    Internally, Kallum scoffed, his


    thoughts filled with disdain for Uriah,


    whom he saw as nothing but a dangerously ambitious madman, murderer at heart. Uriah had set a deadline of two hours, but Kallum


    knew well that if he failed to appear within that window, Uriah would not hesitate to kill Calista. The mere thought of such a grim oue was unbearable to him.


    "The course is set for Mount Goldfall," Kallum dered resolutely.


    "No way!" Ryder objected in rm, "Mr. Kallum, there''s absolutely no need for you to endanger yourself. The Shadow Assassins are already in ce. You should have faith in their expertise and skills!"


    Kallum responded with icyN?velDrama.Org owns this.


    pragmatism, "Ulric belongs to a


    prestigious family with centuries of influence, having built up immense wealth and power through their loyalists, enough to buy munitions capable of devastating Lostaria! Even now, as he finds himself cornered and ready to flee, he will not be alone. Even with the Shadow Assassins present, I cannot be at peace!"


    "Mr. Kallum, is Calista''s life worth more than your own? What is the disparity between your status and hers? Shees from a prestigious family, true, but she is essentially an ordinary girl. How deeply are your feelings for her? Have you thought about how your actions might impact your parents? They have only you as their son!"


    This time, Kallum found himself hesitating longer than usual, wrestling with his thoughts as he weighed his duty against his personal feelings and the expectations of his family.


    Despite the flush of fever that colored his cheeks, his eyes glinted with a rity and determination that belied his physical condition. Finally, with measured deliberation, he began to speak again. "Elijah, set our destination for Mount Goldfall!"

 Chapter 103 She Is Gone

    "Mr. Kallum!" Ryder eximed, barely able to mask his disbelief. It was inconceivable to him that Kallum would risk everything, even hisst breath, for the sake of a woman.


    Kallum, lips pursed in firm resolution, rified his decision, "If I go to the military district now, my chances of survival would be barely one percent. Yet, if I refrain from attempting to rescue her, her likelihood of death is almost certain."


    His unwavering resolve to save another seemed to soothe the searing pain that racked his body. Never before had he felt suchposure or grasped the stakes so clearly.


    His gaze was fixed intently to the right as he continued, "I am prepared to gamble my meager chance of survival against her almost certain chance to live. Thus, we set our course for Mount Goldfall!"


    Meanwhile, Calista found herself confined, overhearing conversations in Turlenian outside her cell. She coolly assessed her situation.


    From what she could gather, the tide had turned once the antidote was introduced. Consequently, Uriah had severed ties with his uncle, who continued to resist the Lostarian government while Uriah nned his escape from the country. His bitterness over past failures was palpable, and it was this resentment that drove him to capture her as a way to reach Kallum.


    The discussions outside hinted at the use of the K Virus. Fortunately, it seemed his ns had not seeded, and Kallum remained unharmed.


    However, a wave of unease washed over Calista.


    In her previous life, Kallum had returned abruptly to his homnd. Given his significant role in Lostaria, why would he return amid an ongoing war? The K Virus... Uriah...


    Calista furrowed her brows. In her previous life, she hadn''t been able to visit Kallum and knew far too little about him. However, at that point, she knew she had to leave that ce.


    They had injected her with a sedative when they confined her, but Calista possessed a unique constitution that dyed the effects of any drug. Her apparent weakness was merely a ruse. In truth, she still had the strength to break free from her bindings.


    Silently, she untied herself and cautiously peered through a crack in the door. Outside, two armed guards stood watch, with patrolling sentinels visible in the vicinity. The odds were against her, but she knew she had to attempt an escape within the next two hours, especially if Kallum was indeeding to her rescue. She needed to avoid endangering him at all costs.


    All her personal items had been confiscated, but she retrieved a needle hidden within her chest.


    The Energy Locking Needle, fully conceble inside her chest, now provided her with a small measure of security. Clutching the needle, she felt a renewed sense of empowerment. Meanwhile, Kallum had reached Mount Goldfall and confirmed his infection with the K Virus. After a period of uncertainty, his resolve had crystallized.


    Calista was awaiting his rescue. Pinning his hopes on a mere one percent chance of survival simply could not measure against her safety.


    Unconsciously, have I really grown so attached to a woman? This is quite an interesting feeling... Kallum chuckled weakly.


    Ryder knew there was no circumventing Kallum; the only viable option was to have the military district dispatch an antibody as quickly as possible.


    However, everyone was aware that the effectiveness of the antibody decreased dramatically over time. If there was originally a one percent chance of survival, that likelihood diminished to nearly one-thousandth of a percent after the two-hour mark.


    Upon receiving the update, Shadow Assassins had already made their way to Mount Goldfall. Although this was their debut mission, their intent to kill was undiminished.


    As Kallum viewed the imposing mountain peak, he let out a cold chuckle. If his end was near, then he would ensure that those who pursued him would join him in demise.


    Indeed, Uriah had his forces ready. His choice of Mount Goldfall was strategic, as the mountain''s hollow core held potential resources for a future resurgence.


    If Kallum brought a significant force, Uriah was undeterred. And if Kallum came with only four, their defeat would be even swifter.


    However, Uriah received word that Kallum had continued on his path to the military district and not deviated toward rescuing Calista. It was then he realized something crucial-Kallum didn''t care about Calista; he never intended to rescue her. What a nuisance! I knew it, no woman would lead Kallum to his demise. So, what''s the point of keeping her alive?


    "Bring that woman here!" Uriahmanded.


    At that moment, Calista was seizing


    her chance to escape. She was confined in a wooden shed and had discovered a loose nk on the floor. With her bare hands, she dug at the ground beneath it, applying all


    her strength until the ne


    revealing an escape route. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She had already scoped out the area through a crevice and confirmed no one was directly behind the shed.


    After crawling out, she dashed into the surrounding forest, only to encounter guards stationed throughout. It was clear this was Uriah''s secret base, likely fortified from the mountain''s peak to its base.


    A surge of anxiety overwhelmed Calista when suddenly, a furious roar erupted from behind. "She''s gone!"


    Without hesitation, Calista swiftly scaled a tree.


    In her previous life, Calista had


    found herself fleeing so frequently that she had developed a range of survival skills. Her heightened senses and swift movements enabled her to deftly navigate into the thickest parts of the tree canopy. It wasn''t long before a search party arrived, led by Uriah himself, whose pale face seemed to radiate sheer fury, his blue eyes zing with a fire of wrath.

 Chapter 104 A Maniac

    Uriah was resolute, fueled by a fierce desire to kill the woman so thoroughly.


    "Boss, there''s no trace on the ground, she didn''te this way!" one of the searchers reported back after a thorough inspection of the area.


    This made sense to the searcher. A woman, fleeing in sheer panic, would undoubtedly leave numerous signs of her passage. Yet, the absence of such traces here meant she couldn''t possibly be in this vicinity.


    Their cultural biases led them to underestimate the capabilities of Chanaean women, assuming the rope''s failure was due to a simpleck of thoroughness.


    Uriah, however, was not convinced. His teeth clenched in frustration, he shouted toward a cluster of trees, "Youngdy, do you even realize? Your lover has abandoned you; he hasn''te at all! So, even if you manage to escape, it''s futile, there''s no one to rescue you; you can''t possibly escape this mountain alone!"


    As he yelled, he scanned his surroundings meticulously. How could a woman, forsaken by her lover, maintain herposure under such circumstances?


    "What a pitiful state to be in, I had thought you might be of some use. But it turns out you are utterly insignificant in Kallum''s eyes! Given that, there''s no point in you continuing to live! If youe out now, I''ll allow you a dignified death. Otherwise, I''ll sell you to the most backward country to be a prostitute! You''ll be abused by vile men who stink of rats! You''ll never be able to reim your life!"


    He continued to taunt her, believing that thebined weight of betrayal and the threat of death would break her spirit and force her to act impulsively.


    However, Calista was no ordinary woman and was not so easily provoked.


    Despite Uriah''s cruel words, the idea that she had nned her escape within two hours to save Kallum from danger now seemed absurd. He hadn''te to rescue her at all; he had left her to her fate.


    Still, she understood that when national issues, family duties, and personal responsibilities were at stake, romantic feelings were of little consequence. Besides, her rtionship with Kallum had not even developed into something profound yet.


    Even though a coldness touched her heart, her expression did not waver. She melded with the branches and leaves, bing nearly indistinguishable from her surroundings.


    Uriah waited but saw no sign of disturbance, ultimately giving up, convinced that his target was not there. Since Kallum was unlikely toe, he couldn''t afford to waste more time waiting for Kallum''s forces to potentially arrive and eliminate him. Therefore, he resolved to capture Calista before he departed.


    "Go, bring over a few dogs!" hemanded.


    Calista''s thigh was wounded, and although she could hide the scent of blood from humans, wild beasts were another story altogether.


    A shiver of fear ran through her as she nced down at the makeshift bandage on her thigh, sensing the imminent danger.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    At that moment, Uriah eximed, "He just left like that, I simply can''t ept it! If I can''t have thisnd, then let it be destroyed! Initiate n B! They''ve gathered all the refugees together, haven''t they? Blow them all up!"


    Calista lifted her head slightly, her eyes wide. Inparison to Uriah, even the most ruthless assassins who killed without a second thought seemed like saints.


    The refugee camp housed a hundred thousand people. In a fit of rage, Uriah had condemned these hundred thousand souls to a merciless fate, his cold-bloodedness knowing no bounds.


    Yet, his subordinates disyed remarkable loyalty, even voicing concerns for Uriah''s safety during such times.


    "Whether to activate or deactivate n B, it requires your fingerprint and password, Boss. It would be best if you don''t risk your life and exit Lostaria safely. How could the lives of those lowly beingspare to your safety, Boss?"


    "It''s all right," Uriah replied, a cruel


    gleam in his eyes. "I''ve already modified the system. It now requires just a password to start or stop. You all are my most loyal subordinates! So, who among you is willing to sacrifice their life for revenge? I will send a ne for you and ensure your family is well cared for!"


    At that moment, a young boy, merely fourteen or fifteen years old, stepped forward, his eyes alight with unyielding fervor and admiration as he looked up at Uriah.


    "For the sake of your ns, Mr. Jurickson, I am prepared to undertake the mission!" he dered with determination.


    "Excellent!" Uriahmended the boy, pping him on the shoulder as a gesture of approval, "The refugee camp is close by. Soon, you''ll blend in disguised as a refugee. Your destination is therge dead tree at the camp''s center, where you''ll l¨¦gate the explosives setup. The password is..."


    He leaned in closer, lowering his voice to a whisper to share the secret code with the boy. The prospect of orchestrating such a devastating event, knowing he could observe the explosion from his escape ne due to the proximity, brought a sinister thrill to Uriah. He rationalized that if these individuals refused to submit to his rule, they deserved their grim fate.


    From a distance, Calista observed the exchange intently. Her exceptional eyesight and acute hearing served her well, although she couldn''t hear their whispered conversation, she could read his lips. As Uriah mouthed the password, Calista''s lips silently mirrored his, confirming the digits in her mind.


    Four-Three-Seven-Nine. It''s a four-digit password.


    She desperately wished to ry this information, but a quick survey of her surroundings reminded her that shecked any means ofmunication. This realization left her feeling a wave of frustration. Once he received the password, the young boy boarded a ne and swiftly departed.


    Suddenly, the barking of dogs pierced the air, causing Calista''s muscles to tense. She then heard Uriah''sugh as he stooped to greet the approaching animals. "My dear children..."


    These were Uriah''s pet wolfdogs, notorious for their ferocity as they were raised on human flesh. Yet under Uriah''smand, their savage nature was subdued. They whimpered softly and affectionately nuzzled his hand.

 Chapter 105 Overlapping Dangers

    In no time, someone brought the rope previously used to bind Calista, still marked with her blood.


    "Find this woman and tear her apart!" Uriahmanded as he released the leash, unleashing the wolfdogs in the direction he suspected Calista had taken. Calista braced herself, familiar with the imminent danger, yet the intensity of this moment brought a sharp rity that she was perilously close to death. This man has no regard for life. I want neither to die nor to be sold. What should I do?


    Just then, a gunshot rang out in the distance, bringing a momentary sense of relief to Calistia, while Uriah''s previously amused expression instantly darkened, his features twisting into a stormy re. "Who''s there!" Amidst intermittent static, voices crackled through the inte.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Boss, we''ve encountered a breach at Mount Goldfall... currently, it''s unclear who... but there''s a sizable group-" The report was cut short by screams, leaving Uriah''s expression even grimmer.


    Among the many who sought my downfall, who could this new threat be? Kallum? Impossible... He has already gone to the military district; surely, he couldn''t have mustered such a force. Who then possesses such capabilities? Regardless, I can''t just sit back and do nothing!


    Though Uriah was momentarily distracted from Calista, his nature wouldn''t allow him to overlook any affront. He swiftly delegated the task to his henchmen with a grave voice. "If you find that woman, there''s no need to report back. Just kill her on the spot!" "Understood!"


    "Prepare the ne. If we cannot hold them back, we need to retreat swiftly." "Roger that!"


    As Uriah''s men followed the wolfdogs toward a potential hiding spot, Uriah, surrounded by his loyalists, hastily departed the scene.


    While Uriah was coordinating his retreat, Calista seized the moment to act. She tore off her blood-soiled bandage, skewered it onto a branch, and flung it beneath another tree to mislead the wolfdogs. She then quickly wrapped her wound with her outer garment to stem any further bleeding.


    Soon after, the pursuers and the wolfdogs converged at the base of the tree, where the beasts ferociously tugged at the blood-soaked cloth.


    "That woman must be nearby! Spread out and search for her!"manded the leader. While the others fanned out, the leader struggled to retrieve the cloth from the wolfdog''s mouth.


    At that moment, Calista descended gracefully from her perch, her presence nearly imperceptible. Her movements were light and poised, and as she approached the man, the needle in her hand glinted ominously under the dim light.


    As Kallum observed theyout and fortifications, it became unmistakably clear that this was one of Uriah''s hideouts. His expression grew even more somber. He promptly instructed his troops to divide into two squads to engage the enemy more effectively, while he personally tookmand of a third squad to lead a frontal assault.


    The air was thick with the cacophony of gunfire and the harsh sounds of battle. Maintainingmunication with the military district, Kallum found himself at the heart of a brutal conflict.


    Mount Goldfall was a crucial stronghold for Uriah in Lostaria, housing his ultimate reserve of resources essential for a possible resurgence.


    With the dangerous K Virus in y, it was imperative for Kallum and the people of Lostaria that Uriah not escape with his life. The risk of the havoc he could wreak if left unchecked was unimaginable.


    Uriah had initially nned a staunch resistance, but upon realizing the overwhelming odds against him due to the superior strength of his opponent''s forces, he swiftly opted to flee.


    Driven by both cruelty and a deep-seated fear of death, Uriah was prepared to abandon his position at the first sign of defeat.


    Halfway up the mountain, Kallum noticed several aircraft circling overhead, clearly not there for an assault but likely arranged for an evacuation.


    Acting swiftly on this observation, Kallum issued orders.


    Following his strategic directive, the teams split their focus: one provided defensive cover while the other targeted the aircraft with heavy weaponry.


    The ensuing barrage resulted in several thunderous explosions, leading to the downing of a ne. This spectacle pushed Uriah to the edge of despair, filled with the premonition of his looming demise. "Who is it? Who''s out to get me!"


    Who the hell were these well-trained troops and where did they spring from? Apart from Kallum, who else possesses such capability?


    With the realization that Kallum''s


    forces were primarily positioned in


    eline


    the military district, Uriah mistakenly assume that Kallum would notpromise his position over woman. Yet, who else possessed such arge reserve of munitions


    apart from Kallum?


    As the evacuation ne became untenable, Uriah''s only alternative was a secretive escape route through the mountain. Thanks to Kallum''s rapid mobilization and decisive leadership, his team''s ascent up the mountain took merely an hour.


    Kallum knew that failing to eliminate Uriah could lead to catastrophic consequences.


    At that moment, Ryder approached hurriedly.


    "Mr. Kallum, the antibody!" he urged, handing Kallum a vial.


    By then, nearly two hours had psed, and the efficacy of the antibodies was highly questionable.


    Previously, Kallum had ingested a potent antipyretic which kept him rtively coherent. Aware that administering the antibody thiste was unlikely to be beneficial, he still proceeded, motivated by the supportive looks of his loyal


    subordinates.


    The ultimate oue of this action remained to be seen.


    Suddenly, a burly figure d in ck approached with urgent news. "Mr. Kallum, the enemy is retreating toward the rear of the mountain!" he reported.


    Kallum''s face set in a grim line. "I


    suspect that the interior of this mountain is hollow. Uriah would not have chosen this location as his


    hideout without such an advantage. Dispatch a team with a sonar detector to confirm. We must preempt their escape routes and ensure no one escapes alive from here!"

 Chapter 106 An Explosion

    "Roger that!"


    Kallum rallied his elite troops into the fray with a precisemand and an astute grasp of enemy tactics. His rapid pration of Uriah''s defenses signaled that victory was tantalizingly close.


    It was regrettable, however, that throughout this conflict, he had yet toy eyes on Calista.


    His aggression was fueled primarily by the need to corner Uriah and annihte his remaining forces in one fell swoop.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Given that Uriah was targeting his life, Kallum knew that, if cornered, Uriah would undoubtedly use Calista as a bargaining chip against him. In such a scenario, even if it meant a life-for-life exchange, his objective would be fulfilled.


    Internally, Kallum felt the temperature rising; the antipyretic and subsequent antibodies seemed to have no effect. It was clear to him that he was facing his own mortality. Yet, if his end was inevitable, then he was resolute that Calista must survive at all costs. Suddenly, a sharp st resounded as blood sttered across Calista''s face. She had managed to eliminate that man in one clean strike, but dealing with the subsequent two wolfdogs proved to be more challenging.


    Despite her injuries, Calista''s strength and quick thinking prevailed, allowing her to dispatch the beasts as well.


    After eliminating the threat, she quickly rose and found a ce to conceal herself. Her swift actions were fortuitous; as anticipated, the sound of the wolfdog''s yelp drew a man, intent on killing her.


    The man was instantly on high alert. They had initially split up because they believed that no matter who Calista might encounter, her demise was inevitable. However, the sudden death of one of their own-if not by Calista''s hand, then perhaps an unseen assant- suggested a formidable enemy might be lurking.


    Yet, he harbored doubts about Calista''s capability for such skilledbat. With the relentless gunfire resonating from the mountain''s base, it seemed usible that enemy forces had infiltrated their ranks with nefarious intent.


    As such, he never rxed his grip on his firearm, sweeping his gaze across the surroundings, muscles tensed in anticipation of any threat.


    Calista remembered him well; he was the man who had brazenly harassed her in Uriah''s presence, revealing his shameless and reckless nature. Clutching a gun she had just seized, she considered her options. Her marksmanship, though decent, was no match for a professionally trained soldier, especially while wounded. Engaging him with the firearm, if she failed to deliver a fatal shot, would likely result in her death.


    After careful deliberation, she opted to forsake the gun, instead creating a subtle, fragmented noise to draw him in.


    The man''s ears perked up at the slightest sound, his approach cautious, not wanting to rm any potential adversary. He moved stealthily toward the source of the noise, rounding arge tree to confront what he presumed might be an enemy. To his astonishment, he discovered not a foe, but an unexpectedly appealing sight.


    In a shallow depression in the earth, Calista sat, her skin pale against the dirt and blood that marred her appearance. Her exposed shoulders and wide, frightened eyes could stir a mix of emotions in any onlooker.


    As Calista feigned vulnerability, clutching her chest as though trying to preserve her modesty, she spoke in Turlenian, suggesting a desperate bargain for her life. "As long as you don''t kill me, I can fulfill any of your desires!"


    As she spoke, her grip loosened slightly, revealing more of her supple skin.


    Embittered by the ongoing battle yet confident in hisrades'' capabilities, the man saw an opportunity for a vile indulgence before what he assumed would be her inevitable demise.


    Enthralled by her beauty, which he had noticed previously, he couldn''t resist approaching Calista.


    As he moved towards her, Calista''s face showed fear and shock. Yet beneath her terrified exterior, a glint of cold resolve shone in her fingertips, where she secretly held a silver needle. While a needle was not a lethal weapon, it was enough for Calista to induce temporary paralysis, turning even the smallest opportunity to her advantage.


    Elsewhere, Kallum had uncovered the secret entrance to a cave within Mount Goldfall. Using explosives, he gained the upper hand over Uriah.


    The battle had tilted decisively in his favor. Most of Uriah''s meny defeated, and the responsibility of delivering Uriah to his demise fell squarely on Kallum.


    The cave wasden with supplies- not just munitions, food, and medicine, but also stacked with gold bars, evidently Uriah''s financial reserve for a potential resurgence. Uriah''s blind vengeance had clouded his judgment; had he not been so consumed by revenge, he might have utilized these resources to stage a formidableeback. From afar, Uriah''s curses filled the air. Kallum responded with a cold smirk, raising his hand as a dozen guns were primed and pointed toward the approaching threat. Up to this point, Uriah remained confused about his assant''s identity.


    Themunication system had


    broken down, leaving him isted and without updates on the unfolding situation outside. Therefore, he was forced to rely


    solely on his conjectures to piece together the clues.


    Logically, he knew that most of Kallum''s forces were stationed in the military district, deeply engaged in a fierce battle.


    Considering his numerous


    adversaries, each preupied with their own dilemmas, Uriah pondered who could possibly have the motive and means to target him at this juncture. Is it someone from another nation, seizing the opportunity to strike amidst my misfortune?


    However, the answer to his spections became shockingly clear the moment he saw the figure before him.


    Kallum... But isn''t he supposed to be in the military district?


    Uriah''s eyes widened in shock, a cold wave of fear washing over him as he pieced together the reality of the situation.


    It turned out that Kallum, while operating a capable force in the public eye in Lostaria, alsomanded a formidable, secretive force. This realization painted Kallum in a terrifying new light.


    Kallum had been waiting at the end


    of the cave for some time, his


    posture rigid andmanding, exuding a deadly aura reminiscent of a sword ready to strike. His presence alone was enough to chill the spine.

 Chapter 107 Wait For Me

    With a gun pointed at him, Uriah dared not resist. His men raised their hands in surrender, their fear threatening to suffocate them.


    As Kallum''s eyes fixed on Uriah, who was now cornered and desperate, his pupils narrowed, the intensity of his gaze revealing a raw, undisguised intent to eliminate any threat.


    "Where is Calista?" Kallum''s voice was sharp, his concern evident. Why is she not by Uriah''s side? Did Uriah harm her?


    Uriah realized the depth of his miscalction. In his arrogance, he had underestimated Kallum''s reach and resolve, assuming that Kallum would not risk everything for Calista and thus disregarding her as a valuable leverage point. But Uriah, ever the schemer, quickly attempted to manipte the situation to his advantage, despite his desperation.


    "Let me go! Otherwise, I''ll kill that woman! His voice was tinged with false bravado, clinging to the hope that Kallum might be deceived by his bluff.


    Kallum, however, maintained hisposure, observing Uriah closely. After a moment, he let out a short, mockingugh, seeing through the facade.


    "You''re not holding her captive," Kallum stated tly, his voice cutting through the tension. "That means I don''t have to keep you alive any longer."


    Uriah was taken aback, barely processing the situation before Kallum''s forces opened fire. In a desperate attempt to shield himself, Uriah hid behind one of his own men.


    Although he was hit several times, none of the bullets were fatal. The realization that he was the sole survivor amidst the carnage sent waves of terror through him. Kallum''s a demon! An utter demon!


    With that, Uriah eximed, "Y-you can''t kill me! I''ve nted a bomb in the refugee camp, and I''m the only one who knows the code! If you kill me, a hundred thousand people will die!"


    Kallum scoffed at Uriah''s im, then approached and hoisted him from the ground with ease. "Bomb? Password?"


    "Exactly..." Uriah stammered. A palpable fear washed over him, his voice quivering with the weight of his impending doom.


    "There''s only half an hour left before the explosion! If you kill me, they''ll all die!" he cried out, his blood-stained hands desperately clutching at Kallum.From N?velDrama.Org.


    This was the first time Uriah found himself in such utter disarray, his pride crumbling as he yearned to beg for mercy. "Let me go... and I''ll give you the password right away..."


    Kallum responded with a dismissiveugh, casually releasing his grip and watching Uriah tumble to the ground. Scrambling to his feet, Uriah seemed poised to grasp at Kallum''s foot in ast-ditch effort to save himself.


    I can''t die-not now! If I make it out of this alive, I swear I''ll make Kallum pay! I''m going to bathe this world in blood. Only pure-bloods like me deserve to live. Everyone else should burn in hell!


    However, Kallum coldly stepped on Uriah''s hand before he could make another move.


    Even with minimal force applied, Uriah winced in pain-a man of high society, unustomed to physical suffering, his pampered fingers writhing under the unfamiliar strain.


    "Where is Calista?" Kallum


    demanded authoritatively, towering over Uriah, who felt the full weight of his own insignificance, as if standing before a God. How could he dare to suggest that Calista was possibly dead by then?


    Gritting his teeth, Uriah was forced to admit her location through clenched teeth. "At the peak of the mountain!"


    With a slight shift of his foot, causing Uriah to wince again, Kallum smirked and pressed further, "How much of the K Virus do you still have in your possession?"


    Knowing the stakes, especially with a hundred thousand lives hanging in bnce, Uriah knew better than to lie. "The K Virus is too dangerous... Apart from those already exposed, there''s none left..." "And your uncle? He doesn''t have any either?" Kallum probed further.


    "My uncle is determined, still aiming to control Lostaria-he would never use the K Virus..." Uriah confessed, understanding that infecting the popce he sought to rule would be counterproductive.


    Kallum found Uriah''s honesty in this moment both satisfying and revolting. It was clear that even among rebels, there were lines that should not be crossed, yet Uriah had seemed to have lost all sense of moral boundaries.


    Handing Uriah over to Ryder, who


    stood ready behind him, Kallum gave his orders, "Send a message to the military district, inform them about the bomb. Start evacuations immediately, and get as many people to safety within half an hour."


    He added, "And as for this man, keep him alive only until he gives up the password. If the bomb goes off, he dies too. Everyone else, follow me!"


    Uriah, realizing the gravity of Kallum''s words, covered his hand in shock. "Kallum! Are you trying to kill me? Don''t you care about the lives of those hundred thousand people!"


    A sardonic smirk curled on Kallum''s


    lips. Facing his own imminent death,


    he had little left to lose. Moreover, he recognized the deep-seated malice in Urian''s eyes-a man of considerable influence and vengeful disposition was too dangerous to be


    left atrge.


    Additionally, Uriah''s reckless tampering with the K Virus was proof enough of his decayed ethicalpass. To Kallum, ensuring such a man never wielded power again was not just a choice but a necessity.


    If it meant making the hard decisions, so be it; he had always been prepared to make sacrifices, whether on the battlefield or beyond.


    He felt assured in his resolve, believing firmly that his decision to prioritize saving Calista was the most righteous decision he had ever made.


    So, Calista, wait for me!

 Chapter 108 Cannot Die Now

    At that very moment, Calista was sprinting with every ounce of strength she had.


    Thendscape was engulfed in mes, as though the whole mountain had been set aze. Vast plumes of smoke rose, casting the sky in ominous tones of crimson and ck.


    Calista did not know the identity of those seeking to eliminate Uriah, yet she was firmly convinced of one truth-irrespective of their identity, they could not be trusted.


    Her continued existence was now entirely reliant on her own resourcefulness and resilience. Despite the temporary numbing of the pain from her leg wound, Calista found she could still run. Nevertheless, the reality of her injury impeded her; no matter how swift her pace, she could never outpace an unscathed assassin.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She had just neutralized two adversaries, yet two more pursued her relentlessly. These remaining foes were tenacious, akin to maggots burrowing into bone, determined to bring about her downfall.


    She could not afford to merely sit back and ept her fate. As dizziness began to cloud her vision, a creeping dread took hold in Calista''s heart-she was feeling the effects of the drug that had been administered to her earlier.


    Amidst this crisis, she was being actively hunted. Desperately fighting the encroaching vertigo, she sought refuge and a momentary hiding spot.


    "Where did she go? That woman is truly remarkable! Even with her injuries, she''s incredibly fast!" one voice remarked in the distance.


    "Don''t wander too far," another cautioned sternly. "That woman is dangerous. I just witnessed her break Ray''s neck with nothing but her bare hands! She''s no mere woman!"


    "Hmph, Ray was always led astray by his desires. It was only a matter of time before his downfall would be brought about by a woman."


    "Stay alert. Ourmunication lines are down, and we''re blind to the events unfolding lower down the mountain. Once she''s dealt with, we must make our escape immediately!"


    Camouged within a small depression in the ground, Calista''s body was smeared with mud, blending her into her surroundings. The soil provided an excellent disguise, although her head felt increasingly heavy, as if she might sumb to sleep at any minute.


    No, I can''t let that happen! I have to pass on the password. If I don''t, all those people will die, and my journey here would be all for naught!


    Moreover, the military district is rmingly close to the refugee camp. If Kallum''s there...


    A bitter chuckle escaped Calista.


    Oh, Calista. Kallum has given up on you. Though it was for a noble cause, his decision has been made. Such fragile affection... it never ran as deep as he imed. Why are you still thinking about him?


    By then, the two men had closed in on her location. Hidden in a muddy hollow, she observed their cautious maneuvers, her heart racing, her gaze icy and alert.


    I can''t afford to die, not with so much left unfinished.


    Just then, a rabbit darted into the bushes nearby. The men, mistaking the sound for Calista, spun around abruptly.


    One stood guard while the other, armed with a gun, moved toward the bushes.


    This is my chance!


    A predatory gleam sparked in Calista''s eyes. Despite her numerous injuries, if she passively awaited capture, her end would be certain. However, she now saw an opening.


    The man was about twenty meters away-within striking distance. She could take her shot!


    Calista raised her gun, aiming at the man whose back was turned,pletely absorbed in his guard duty. The double vision guing her only worsened. She bit down on her tongue and pulled the trigger With a loud bang. Without waiting to see if she had hit her target, she swiftly rolled into another patch of grass.


    Despite her speed, the assassin, alerted by the gunshot, quickly traced her movements and caught up almost instantaneously.


    He fired two shots, both missing their target, then advanced a few steps before Calista, leaping from a tree, seized his head and disarmed him. The adversary was skilled. Though Calista was formidable, he managed to retaliate, knocking the gun from her hand and drawing his dagger.


    Seizing the moment, Calista lunged, needle in hand, aiming for his neck. Drained of energy, the effects of her attack were minimal, but she did not relent. Anticipating his next move, she fiercely bit into his neck. The numbness in his limbs caused by her initial assault allowed her to overpower him, and he copsed.


    He reacted with a desperate thrust


    of his dagger, In a disy of


    F


    extraordinary ferocity, Calista grabbed his knife-wielding hand, refusing to loosen her grip even as blood surged from the wound.


    The man, realizing the imminent danger, freed his other hand and began to strike her. Each blow was punishing, but Calista, driven by a primaturge to survive, mped her teeth tighter around his neck her


    grip unyielding.


    No matter how madly he pounded on her or pulled her hair, she remained unmoved, biting down on his neck while clinging onto the hand that wielded the dagger.


    It was a battle for survival with no room for a third oue.


    I can''t die here. My enemies, my hatred, and my very life are at stake!


    Fueled by these thoughts, her bite intensified, gradually diminishing the force of his blows until she had fully immobilized the hand with the dagger.

 Chapter 109 The Most Fortuitous Decision Of His Life

    "He''s dead..." Calista murmured to herself, her tone hollow as she continued to bite him, only letting go after a lingering moment had passed.


    She then methodically sat upright and, with a disconcerting serenity, checked his pulse. There was no doubt about it he was undoubtedly dead.


    As she sat there, her body ckened, every muscle and limb throbbing with intense pain. It was only now that the stark realization that she had indeed taken a life firmly imnted itself in her mind.


    Just moments before, she had been propelled by a singr, driving thought-she must not die.


    Thus, every action she had taken was to stave off her own demise. But now, with those who had been pursuing her lying lifeless, the vivid memories of how she had dispatched each of them flooded back to her. She had crushed the first man''s skull, broken the second man''s neck, shot the third, and bitten the fourth to death.


    Throughout it all, she exhibited not a hint of fear, no terror, nor any tremors of guilt.


    Suddenly, Calista found herselfughing quietly, her hands covering her face. It was evident she wasughing, yet her expression could just as easily have been mistaken for one of wailing, albeit without shedding a single tear.


    Have I transformed into a demon following my own tragic experiences? I''ve ended the lives of four individuals with such chilling precision! And even now, after their demise, I feel nothing... It''s a numbness that terrifies me.


    A deep sadness and an overwhelming fatigue washed over her. The distant echoes of gunfire were just that-distant. Surrounded by the burning jungle, she felt as though she had reverted to being the forsaken one, forever hiding and fleeing, living in a perpetual state of fear. I really want to sleep... No, wait! I still have the password!


    Energy all but drained from her body, Calista frantically searched the dead man''s body with trembling hands, but found nomunication device. She staggered to her feet, but as she did, a wave of dizziness from the medication struck her, pushing her to her physical limits.


    Her legs buckled, sending her to one knee. Then, a gunshot echoed through the air.


    Calista gasped in shock, whipping her head around only to see the man she had shot earlier. Someone had delivered a fatal shot to his head, and he copsed limply to the ground.


    Clearly, her earlier shot had found its mark, but had not immediately killed him. Moreover, he had just attempted an ambush. Luckily, someone had intervened on her behalf. Otherwise, her fate would have been sealed...


    Struggling to remain conscious, Calista managed to lift her head, curious to see her rescuer. However, as the effects of the medication surged through her veins, she copsed. Initially, she braced for impact with the ground, but, to her surprise, she found herself caught in someone''s arms.


    She couldn''t discern who it was, but since they were cradling her, they surely weren''t there to end her life.


    "Bomb... password..." her voice was barely audible as her blood-stained fingers traced numbers on the man''s arm.


    With this, those people wouldn''t have to die; there should be enough time... Could saving lives possibly bnce out the sin of taking one?


    Overwhelmed, Calista was no longer capable of such reflections as she slipped into unconsciousness.


    Kallum tightened his embrace around her body. The sight of someone attempting to assassinate her had made his heart stop. Almost instinctively, he had fired a shot.


    Thankfully, she was alive. Despite the numerous injuries she had sustained, she persisted resiliently in clinging to life.


    After holding her briefly, Kallum suddenly released Calista with a hint of rm and handed her over to Elijah who stood waiting behind him.


    He was apprehensive that he might have already contracted the K Virus. Since Calista was injured and vulnerable, if she were to get infected, everything he had aplished that day would have been for naught.


    Initially, Elijah found it rather odd.


    Why would Mr. Kallum go to such lengths to save someone yet not even embrace them once? However, upon noticing the affection in the man''s gaze, it was clear that he really cared about her.


    "Take her back to tend to her wounds," Kallum instructed.


    Upon hearing this, Elijah quickly breathed a sigh of relief, "Mr. Kallum, she''s been rescued. You should go seek treatment yourself! You''re not just anyone... Even though the antibody wasn''t administered in time, you''ll definitely be okay!"


    SWS


    el?


    Kallum could feel his body rapidly deteriorating, but he couldn''t bring himself to voice these concerns. So, he remained silent, directly dialing the military district, andmunicated the crucial password to them. Ultimately, a hundred thousand lives were saved. Yet, who could have possibly anticipated that the hero responsible for their salvation was merely a youngdy?From N?velDrama.Org.


    Not only had she adeptly evaded the clutches of those who pursued her, but she had also struck back, neutralizing those who sought to cause her harm and in doing so, she safeguarded countless lives. This heroism was unmistakably characteristic of Calista.


    Kallum had long recognized that beneath any changes, Calista retained a fundamentally kind-hearted nature. She had merely encased her intrinsic goodness within a shell of newfound resilience and determination.


    Perhaps this transformation was fortuitous; he realized he might not always be there to protect her in the times ahead, but she had proven that she could indeed protect herself.


    He believed that the memory of Calista''s visage at that moment would linger with him until his final days.


    Resolute and sharp, her figure set against the backdrop of a forest engulfed in mes, where the towering inferno could not even diminish the intensity of her


    presence. He felt immense


    for having been there to aid her-surely, this would be


    gratitude


    remembered as the most fortuitous decision of his life.


    Inside the cave, the process of removing the contents had been carried out with systematic precision, and the bodies were incinerated on the spot. Uriah had met his demise alongside those he had dismissed as "inferior." The once loyal subordinates of the Jurickson family, indoctrinated from a young age, were now nearly entirely extinct. It appeared that their story had reached its definitive conclusion.


    By the time Calista regained consciousness, she found herself back in her home country. The familiar settings enveloped her in a wave of confusion.


    How did I end up here? Was the bomb sessfully deactivated? Who saved me back then?


    As she opened her eyes, the nurse overseeing her care was ovee with tion. "You''re finally awake! You''ve been unconscious for six days!"


    Without responding, Calista rubbed her temples. It was then the door swung open to reveal Benedict.


    "Callie, you''re finally awake!"

 Chapter 110 Mirabelle Is The Talk Of The Town

    He was trailed by Yelena and Quincy, who made it rather obvious that their visit wasn''t merely to "check in on the sick."


    Calista felt the urge to speak, yet the sharp pain in her throat prevented any words from forming. She could do nothing but listen attentively to Benedict''s chastising tone.


    "I can''t believe you, you know. You were supposed to be rxing on vacation, and yet somehow you managed to get injured and tumble off a cliff? You absolutely scared me to death!" I fell off a cliff?


    The realization that Benedict was oblivious to her recent perilous adventures caused Calista to exhale a sigh of relief. The implications of anyone discovering her escapades in Lostaria were dire; it would make her a prime target for any remaining viins, ending her peaceful days once and for all.


    However, Quincy seemed less than sympathetic, her voice tinged with acrimony as she remarked, "You''re finally awake. Had you slept any longer, Mr. Kallum would have surely ended up with someone else!"


    Calista fixed Quincy with a piercing stare, her eyes aze with intensity.


    "Quincy! Stop spouting such nonsense, your sister has just awakened!" Benedict interjected with a tone of concern.


    Yet, it was evident that Quincy was agitated. Far from holding back, she only raised her voice further.


    "Am I really speaking nonsense? It''s the talk of the town! Everyone is buzzing about how enamored Mirabelle is. Despite Lostaria being at war, she rushed to see Mr. Kallum as soon as she got back. And when Mr. Kallum got injured, she was the only one allowed to care for him, no one else was permitted near him. If that doesn''t tell you something, what will?"


    A sudden stab of pain pierced Calista''s heart.


    "You said... Mirabelle went to... Lostaria?" Calista''s voice was raspy and strained, each word carefully enunciated.


    "Exactly! Just a week ago, Mirabelle went to Lostaria! Then she returned alongside Mr. Kallum! Now, with Mr. Kallum injured, she''s the one tending to him. I''m telling you, your fianc¨¦e title is in jeopardy!" "Quincy!" Benedict eximed, attempting to halt her tirade.


    But it was toote for Calista.


    Seven days prior, the very day she had been captured and when Kallum had abandoned her. Had he left her to fend for herself against life-threatening dangers while he was romancing Mirabelle?


    This thought had scarcely crossed her mind when suddenly, she spat out a mouthful of blood.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    Kallum betrayed me!


    Once this idea took root, Calista found herself grappling with a depth of hatred she had never known; a bitterness that even surpassed the resentment she harbored toward Quincy.


    How could he let me down?


    "Callie!" Benedict cried out in shock. He quickly summoned a doctor. The doctor arrived promptly, first ensuring that all the rtives were ushered out before he began to examine Calista, carefully wiping away the blood. Calista sank back onto the bed, and in that brief respite, her thoughts regained a semnce of rity.


    No, something must have been


    overlooked. Kallum isn''t one to y games. He''s forthright, driven by his


    likes


    10 dislikes, and exceedingly


    1.n


    tenacious. He pursued me so relentlessly before, and I find it hard to believe that his feelings could''ve shifted so abruptly. Perhaps there''s something I''m unaware of...


    Regardless, I''m sure I''ll find out the


    truth once I confront him!


    "Ms. Stafford, your current condition is quite precarious. We urge you to steer clear of any severe emotional disturbances. Should you fail toply, your condition might deteriorate further,plicating our efforts to assist you," the doctor advised with a stern tone. Calista looked at him, her icy gaze briefly causing the doctor to falter, a rare urrence in his career.


    "I understand," she responded, her voice still hoarse but significantly steadier than before. "Thank you, Doctor. I will cooperate fully with the treatment."


    She shifted her gaze away, allowing the doctor to breathe a sigh of relief, feeling as though he had narrowly averted a crisis. He promptly gave some instructions, left a nurse in charge, and made a hasty exit.


    Calista cast a puzzled look at them. Why do I sense this eerie feeling of being feared?


    What she did not realize was that her aura had grown markedly more intense after personally taking multiple lives. Her cold, detached gaze now carried an unmistakable sense of danger, instilling deep-seated fear in anyone itnded on.


    At that moment, Benedict re-entered, his face marked with concern.


    Calista tolerated his chatter for a while before finally speaking up. "Dad, it''s nothing serious. I just coughed up some blood, that''s all. need to rest now. When you leave, please inform the doctor that only Mrs. Stafford to attend to me. There''s no need for a nurse to be present constantly. If anything arises, I''ll ring the bell."


    Initially, Benedict was hesitant to agree, but recognizing it was the first time Calista had sought to be closer to Yelena, he saw it as a positive development. After all, they were family and there was no need to perpetuate any strife. Upon hearing this, Yelena''s face lit up with a smile. "Absolutely, I''ll take good care of Callie. Oh, Callie, you''ve had me so worried!"


    Recently, after Yelena''s return from


    the Langley residence, she had kept a modest profile. Benedict felt a tinge of quilt since the Langley family had returned their shares. His attitude toward her had noticeably softened. When Yelena realized


    there was an opportunity to enhance their rtionship, she eagerly


    agreed, fearing Benedict might reconsider.


    Quincy had departed earlier. School was already in session and she still hadn''t secured a mentor.


    Eventually, Benedict consented. "All right, Yelena, please ensure you take meticulous care of Callie this time, understood? If she bes a bit irritable, as an elder, you need to demonstrate some patience!"


    Yelena internally scoffed. Calista''s tantrums are minor? Thest incident at the Langley residence was a significant debacle, yet Calista had emerged unscathed! Managing this cunning b*tch is bing increasingly challenging! Despite this, she replied with a confident grin, "Don''t you trust me to manage things? Didn''t you mention that work is piling up at the office? Go ahead, I''ll handle everything here!"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 111 Do Not Drag Her Into This

    "Mm," Benedict acknowledged with a nod, then proceeded to offer Calista a few cautious reminders before departing the room.


    Throughout this whole episode, Calista''s face remained utterly expressionless, as though her facial muscles hadpletely frozen in ce.


    Noticing her nk stare, Yelena hesitated before offering a strained smile and saying, "Callie, would you like some fruit? I can fetch some for you!" She moved toward the fruit basket beside the bed as she spoke.


    Upon hearing this, Calista replied somewhat curtly, "I''m hungry, I want some oatmeal instead."


    Yelena''s face tensed up a bit, and with a tinge of irritation, she responded, "The hospital arranges nutritious meals for patients, and yours should be arriving soon!"


    But Calista was adamant, "I want the shrimp and cheddar oatmeal from Fortune Lodge right now. Please go and get it for me."


    Yelena was startled by Calista''s forthrightness in making such a demand; her fists clenched as she fought the urge to retort. She faintly recalled the doctor advising Benedict that Calista shouldn''t consume seafood at this time as it could cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Given the dietary restrictions, Benedict had specifically requested nutritious meal from the hospital.


    With a cunning glint in her eye, Yelena thought, I''m not about to harm Calista intentionally. If Calista insists on having that particr meal, then so be it.


    "All right! Just wait here, I''ll go fetch it for you."


    With a show of reluctance, Yelena exited the room. Once outside, she instructed her driver to handle the errand while she took the opportunity to visit a beauty salon. It had been some time since shest pampered herself, and she wondered if perhaps Benedict''s recentck of interest was due to her appearance.


    After Yelena''s departure, a nurse came in to bring the meal to Calista. Calista thanked her, and as the nurse bowed her head to leave, Calista suddenly struck, knocking her unconscious with a swift move.


    It was fortunate the nurse was a young woman; had it been a man, Calista doubted she would have had the strength for such an action.


    Quickly, Calista changed into the nurse''s clothes, donned a mask, and made her exit.


    She was determined to see for herself what exactly was happening with Kallum.


    He better not disappoint me, or else...


    "Kal, please have some to eat," Mirabelle said, her expression troubled.


    She possessedrge, almond-shaped eyes that radiated pure beauty, and at that moment, her slightly furrowed brows made her appear as though she had been wronged.


    Kallum, with his eyes closed, felt a surge of revulsion. He had never liked Mirabelle''s frail and delicate demeanor His improved treatment of her was solely out of gratitude for her role in saving him. But now even that was under scrutiny. Considering the situation with Xander, Mirabelle did not strike him as someone who would put others before herself.


    Noticing her persistent care, a mischievous smile crept onto Kallum''s face. I wonder if Mirabelle would continue to show such concern f she knew about the K Virus I''ve contracted.


    "Mr. Kallum, it''s time for your medication," Shaun informed him, his hands filled with a variety of about a dozen different pills. It seemed Kallum was practically living on medication rather than food at this point. Mirabelle appeared skeptical, feigning innocence as she inquired, "Old Mr. Yancey, Mr. Kallum has only a gunshot wound, why does he need so many medications and such intensive treatment every day?" Shaun shot her a brief look. "Are you the one treating him or am I? Do you really think you know better than a medical professional?"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    His blunt retort left Mirabelle''s face cycling through various shades of pallor. She pursed her lips and fell silent, shocked by the audacity of the mere family doctor to speak so bluntly.


    After the confrontation, Kallum took his medicine. The virus inside him had red up fiercely, leaving him vulnerable. The virus, coupled with the recent gunshot, had nearly ended his life on Mount Goldfall. Yet, despite everything, Kallum held on.


    After Kallum''s secret return to the country, Shaun made an astonishing discovery. A needle had begun to protrude from Kallum''s chest.


    Shaun recognized the needle as one


    Calista had inserted, initially believed


    to be an Energy Locking Needle. But now, he realized it was actually a Heart Needle, designed to preserve life in eritical moments, far exceeding the usual duration


    §¿§Ý


    of


    effectiveness due to the skill of its administration.


    Yet, Kallum had explicitly instructed him not to seek out Calista, insisting on keeping his previous act of saving her and forgoing the administration of the antibody


    confidential. He had forbidd


    any


    mention of it, to the point that even Calista was unaware of who had


    risked everything to save her.


    As Kallum swallowed his pills, Shaun sighed, once again advising him, "That person is incredibly capable. If we could just bring her in, perhaps..." There might be a chance.


    Kallum cut him off with a slight purse of his lips and a sidelong nce. "How old is she? Do you not understand my situation?" His gaze dimmed. "Let''s not drag another person into this."


    He was clear in his message. He didn''t believe Calista could ovee the formidable K Virus. Moreover, anyone close to him would be at significant risk. He feared for Calista, not wanting her to face the same fate.


    Everyone infected with the K Virus was fated to die within a month. Despite all efforts by the Fairchilds to treat him and extend his life, his demise could ur at any time.


    He wished for no one, especially not the woman he deeply loved, to witness his tragic end.

 Chapter 112 The Lady Of The House

    Truly, he was profoundly in love. This was a man who had always put his own needs first, but now, for the first time, he was acting in selfless silence.


    Kallum never imagined a day when he would go to such lengths for someone else. He harbored a hope that if she ever felt let down by him, the news of his demise wouldn''t burden her with too much grief. Calista, I truly like you.


    Meanwhile, Calista had made her way to the Fairchild Manor.


    Kallum was not at the hospital as anticipated; his injuries, while notable, were not severe enough to warrant continued hospitalization, so he was recuperating at home.


    The journey there left Calista with a heavy feeling in her head. As if on cue with her somber mood, the sky opened up, a gentle rain beginning to fall, which only intensified her feelings of feverishness. The dreary, rainy weather carried with it the chill of early autumn, seeping coldly into the bones.


    d in a stark white coat, Calista seemed even more delicate under the somber skies. Herplexion was ghostly pale as she stood at the entrance of the Fairchild Manor, her shoes noticeably ill-fitting. Strangely, the usually bustling manor was now unsettlingly quiet, a stark contrast to its usual liveliness.


    As Calista approached, a security guard noticed her and moved to intercept her. However, she quickly slipped off a thumb ring.


    "No need to announce me; I''ll go in myself!"


    Upon recognizing the ring that marked her as thedy of the house, the guard stepped aside, not daring to bar her entry. The housekeepers they passed gave her odd, almost respectful nces. Calista found their expressions curious but pressed on to Kallum''s room without incident.


    The manor was without the presence of Wanda and Ss, and it seemed unusually understaffed today,cking the usual bustling activity. Only a few older, more loyal housekeepers were in sight. Has something happened to the Fairchilds?


    Calista remembered, in her previous life, after Kallum''s return, he had been bedridden for months. Could it really be just a minor ailment? Why is he not in a hospital, but at home? Is Kallum doing okay? With these questions swirling in her mind, Calista reached Kallum''s door, poised to knock. Yet, the sound of a woman''s voice inside halted her hand in mid-air.


    "Kal, you''re truly incredible! I absolutely adore the Seventh Symphony by Valmont. I heard it was lost long ago. How did you manage to find it?"


    Her hand, previously ready to knock, now clenched into a fist at her side, trembling slightly as she fought to contain her emotions.


    The same gentle voice continued, seemingly unaware of the turmoil outside the door. "Kal, what''s wrong? Why aren''t you speaking?"


    After a brief silence, an elegant and somewhat strained male voice responded, "As long as it''s something you like, I''ll find it for you."


    "You''re truly amazing, Kal!" The woman''s voice was filled with joyful satisfaction. Even without seeing her, one could imagine her blushing with bashful happiness at her own words. While Kallum spoke, he was inwardly waiting, hoping Calista would just leave. A bittersweet ache filled his heart, a mixture of sorrow and intensity, as he struggled to speak those words. Let it be. Detest me, forget me. As long as I keep my distance, there''ll be no danger. And when I''m gone, she won''t feel a thing.


    But Calista did not leave.


    Though she wasn''t speaking, Kallum could feel her presence just outside the door.


    He suddenly spoke again, addressing the other woman. "Mirabelle, I heard, you have a thing for me?"


    Mirabelle was startled, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. Is he really giving me a chance? I''ve been waiting for this moment for years! Is it finallying true?


    "Kal..." Her voice was tinged withN?velDrama.Org owns this.


    surprise but quickly shaded by mncholy. "What does it matter if


    I... if I like you, or if I don''t? You''re engaged to Callie, and she''s my


    good friend. I... I won''t interfere with you two. I wish you both well."


    The words seemed to weigh heavily on her, embodying the struggle of wanting to avoid hurting a friend while suppressing her own feelings and extending her wishes for their happiness. Another man might have felt pity or sympathy for her. However, Kallum felt only revulsion. Nheless, he had to maintain the facade.


    "Feelings are selfish. If you had


    feelings for me, you should have


    fought for it. If you chose to give up because of Calista, then the title of thedy of the house-" His words trailed off as an abrupt loud bang interrupted him.


    The door flew open with a kick from Calista, whose temper seemed to be worsening, a newfound penchant for kicking doors evident.


    Her damp, long hair framed her face, her frame pale and thin, but her eyes zed with a piercing cold re. A slight smile curved her red lips as she burst intoughter.


    "What did you just say? I identally interrupted you, feel free to continue."


    "Callie!" Mirabelle gasped, taken aback. Though she had heard that Calista had changed, this was far beyond her expectations.


    When Calista''s gaze swept over him, Kallum felt as if something sharp had grazed his skin, causing a sensation of pain.


    Time apart had transformed Calista significantly.


    However, Mirabelle was a woman of many talents and quickly adapted to the situation. Rushing over, she expressed concern, "Callie, are you okay? Howe you''re all drenched? You could get sick!"


    As Mirabelle reached out to her as


    she used to, Calista instinctively pulled away without a second thought. She didn''t use much force, but Mirabelle fell to the ground as if made of paper, her expression one of disbelief.

 Chapter 113 Do You Still Love Me

    "Callie! Why did you push me?"


    Push? Calista didn''t respond. Mirabelle had employed these tactics before, but Calista no longer had the patience for such games.


    Seeing her silent, Mirabelle lowered her gaze, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she nervously twisted her sleeve.


    "I understand, you overheard me at the door, didn''t you? I... I do have feelings for Kal, and I have for a very long time. But I know he''s yours, I never meant to take him from you. Just being able to watch him from afar is enough for me... Callie, you''ve misunderstood me!" Had it been the old Calista, she might have been at a loss for words, her frustration bubbling up silently. But now, seeing Mirabelle''s wless act, both Calista and Kallum could only feel a wave of revulsion.


    "Are you done talking? If you''re finished, then leave. You have no ce here anymore." Calista''s words were cold and precise, each one hitting its mark as she stared directly into Mirabelle''s eyes.


    Mirabelle was taken aback, never having expected Calista to confront her so boldly. She was momentarily speechless, her face burning red with embarrassment.


    Kallum looked at Calista intensely, his eyes tracing the contours of her face as if trying to peer into her soul. "How could you speak to Mirabelle like that? Apologize to her," hemanded, his voice deep and unreadable.


    However, Mirabelle perceived this as the man standing up for her. She rose quickly, a look of confusion on her face. "Kal, don''t be upset with Callie, she just misunderstood. Even though we were together every day, nothing happened. You need to rify this to her quickly!" Her plea was tinged with desperation, as she attempted to highlight her innocence while subtly emphasizing her closeness to him.


    She imed nothing happened, but her words seemed to unintentionally unt her unique position. Mirabelle hadn''t changed; she was still an expert at provoking others, using her supposed naivet¨¦ to underscore her sophistication.


    Calista and Kallum locked eyes, each assessing the other. Under her scrutiny, Kallum found it difficult to look away, but his response was chillingly indifferent. "Why should I exin anything? What is she to me?" he asked tly.


    Mirabelle, inwardly thrilled, jumped into the conversation. "She''s your fianc¨¦e!" She addressed Calista with a pretense of urgency, her face a picture of innocence. "Callie you''ve got it all wrong, I... I didn''t mean to fall for Kal! But nothing happened between him and me, at most, I''ll never mention my feelings for him again! Callie, please forgive me..."


    Kallum cut in, "Why not say it? If you like someone, why not express it?" His gaze remained intensely fixed on Calista, each word seemingly advocating for Mirabelle''s boldness, yet his eyes never left Calista.


    Perhaps after today, Calista would vanish from his life forever. This might be thest time he would see her face, hear her voice. The thought caused a pang of regret to stir within him.


    Kallum wished someone would take Calista to change out of her rain-soaked clothes, yet he knew the angrier she became, the more she would grow to despise him, the more likely she would erase him from her memory.


    So, he remained stoic, his face a mask of indifference, convinced his expression betrayed nothing of his inner turmoil.


    Mirabelle''s heart soared. Is Kallum suggesting that if I like him, I should boldly dere it? Is this a sign?


    "Kal..."


    Mirabelle stood there, clutching her dress, her demeanor a mixture of shyness, surprise, and guilt.


    "C-Can I really say that I like you?"


    she asked, her voice faltering. Upon realizing her forwardness, she


    nced at Calista, her eyes brimming with tears. "Callie, I''m sorry. You''re my best friend, and I shouldn''t have done this, but.. I really like Kal! I couldn''t help myself! If you must me someone, me me, not him! It''s all my fault!"


    Calista felt a surge of frustration. If it weren''t for her shield of icy indifference, Mirabelle might have already grasped her hand, perpetuating her deceitful act.


    She turned to Mirabelle, her voiceced with puzzlement. "How on earth did you manage to do it?"


    "What?" Mirabelle was caught off guard by Calista''s abrupt question, responding without thinking.


    Calista nced at Kallum, utterly bewildered. "How did you manage to do it? To im you''re my best friend in my presence, yet fall for my


    fianc¨¦? And you expect me to


    your uncontroble


    forgive y


    emotions? Do you want to y the victim while maintaining your innocence?"


    The room instantly fell into a deathly silence.


    Mirabelle was stunned, Calista''s blunt usation resonating in front of Kallum.


    Calista chuckled softly, a hint of mockery twinkling in her starry eyes. "You''re fond of this man, yet you


    drugged him to end up in my bed et


    just to make him despise me. Mirabelle, you''re quite audacious. Are you so confident that ad


    a man


    who has been with me can escape so easily?"


    Calista''s words escted in intensity, leaving Mirabelle speechless, and even Kallum found himself at a loss for words.


    "Drugged? I didn''t! Callie, you-"All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Regardless of Mirabelle''s frantic exnations, Calista had lost all interest in listening. She stepped towards Kallum, each stride resonating with a thunderous silence. With every step, Kallum felt an overwhelming sense of exposure, as if there was nowhere left to hide.

 Chapter 114 You Belong To Me

    He fixed his gaze on Calista intently, his Adam''s apple bobbing noticeably. His heart was a tumultuous sea of conflicting emotions, swirling with joy and anguish, yet he found himself utterly incapable of articting thisplex surge of feelings. He was struggling internally, yet unable to resist the maic pull of her presence.


    As she approached the bed, Kallum wrestled with his inner turmoil, swallowing down the sweetness and bitterness alike, forcing himself to adopt an expression of disdain. He was on the verge of speaking, but Calista preempted him.


    Looking down at him, her eyes were scrutinizing yet detached, resembling a divine being passing judgment on a wayward soul pleading for redemption.


    "So, what about you?" Her voice, cool and collected, cut through the tension.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Her lips, an intense shade of vibrant red, stood out starkly against her disheveled appearance, adding to her imposing aura. Despite the chaos of her look, her beauty was almost confrontationally intense. Her piercing gaze seemed to delve deep into the recesses of his heart.


    Daringly, she reached out and lifted Kallum''s chin with a flippant and audaciously defiant gesture.


    The moment her icy fingertips made contact with Kallum''s skin, a shiver coursed through his body. He raised his head to meet her gaze, which had shifted unexpectedly into a bewitching smile.


    "Once you''ve touched my body, you belong to me. Are you nning to run away?"


    All attempts at speech abandoned him. His body trembled with a mix of apprehension and allure, his soul irresistibly drawn into the depths of her captivating gaze.


    Kallum was hopelessly ensnared.


    I don''t want to flee. Instead, I want to dive into madness with her, to indulge in the most profound earthly delights. I...


    "You once told me, you liked me," Calista whispered in a husky tone.


    It was as if the crisis she had just faced seemed transient, a mere sh in the pan. As she reigned in herughter, a hint of bitterness unexpectedly lingered at the corners of her mouth.


    Her fingers transitioned from a gentle poke to a firm pinch, yet even at this moment, she seemed reluctant to release him.


    Was it because he was the man she could never truly possess, in this lifetime or any other?


    "Tell me, do you still have feelings for me?" Calista asked once more.


    Her tone was imbued with an unprecedented level of gravity.


    I do like you!


    Kallum waspletely taken by the woman before him. She was an intoxicating blend of contrasts-cold yet fiery, gentle yet incisive. Her very presence was enough to drive anyone to the brink of madness. How could one not harbor feelings for her? After a prolonged pause, the light in Calista''s eyes began to dim, as if the stars themselves were being extinguished, reced by a deep, dark void.


    Since he offered no reply, it was time for her to seek confirmation in the most direct manner possible.


    Calista lowered her head and covered his lips with hers.


    Kallum''s eyes widened slightly; this was the warmth he had yearned for-a touch of coolness, a hint of a chilly fragrance. In the next second, Kallum suddenly gripped Calista tightly Just as she thought he would draw her into his embrace, as he had done countless times before, he pushed her away with considerable force, his expression tinged with fear!


    Calista, already frail, was sent sprawling onto the ground. It was reminiscent of her previous life where she had exhausted all her efforts to prove her fidelity, while he had regarded her with cold indifference.


    Is it possible that in my previous life, the look in his eyes was not one of anxious concern but of scorn and humiliation? He simply doesn''t care about me! Not in my previous life, not now. He had always been like this. Even my kiss was met with such rejection! Well done, Kallum. Well yed.


    When Kallum saw her fall, he instinctively leaned forward, his face etched with concern, but Calista, head bowed, missed seeing this reaction.


    The K-virus was notorious for its high contagion, spreading most effectively through bodily fluids, which exined why Kallum''s reaction had been so vehement.


    Calista, immobilized by a dense cloud of despair, seemed to be enveloped by her darkest thoughts. It was evident that once she managed to stand, her feelings for him would be irrevocably altered.


    Despite having orchestrated this scenario to protect her, the reality of witnessing her detachment was agonizing for Kallum. His heart was suffused with a mixture of emotions, each beat resonating with a subdued pain.


    Beneath the nket, his hand clenched in a tight fist before gradually rxing. He knew he must resist the urge to reach out to her; revealing the full extent of his affliction would only serve to magnify her anguish.


    Should he choose to disclose everything, given Calista''s devoted nature, she would undoubtedly remain by his side until the bitter end. However, the unpredictability of the situation weighed heavily on him.


    In Lostaria, the virus had shown its


    ruthless efficiency when several infected soldiers inadvertently transmitted the K Virus to seven caregivers in just one day, leading to their immediate execution by the local authorities. Kallum had barely escaped such a fate, managing to return to his homnd just in time to avoid detection.


    Subsequently, he secluded himself at home, haunted by the fear of harming others, particrly Calista.


    As Kallum pushed Calista away,


    Mirabelle''s heart swelled with concealed pleasure. She believed the allure Calista had just shown would have ensnared any other man, Kallum''s rejection was


    therefore a clear indication yel


    that, regardless of Calista''s transformations, he remained


    unmoved by her charms.


    With a veneer of sympathy, Mirabelle approached Calista, her voiceced with feigned remorse. "Callie! I''m so sorry, truly sorry! Please don''t be angry with Kal; this is all my fault!"


    Her insinuations painted the picture that Kallum''s rejection of Calista was motivated by his regard for Mirabelle, adding an additional sting to the encounter.


    At that moment, Calista felt her temperature rising, her mind swirling with dizziness. She had summoned every ounce of her strength to confront Kallum for answers, but now, utterly drained, she found herself powerless to rise from where she had fallen. Moreover, Kallum stood by, merely observing. Calista made a silent vow. I''ll remember this!


    With a swift movement, she shrugged off Mirabelle''s hand, her disgust palpable.

 Chapter 115 Done With This Man

    Mirabelle, however, didn''t care. The more Calista found her annoying, the more opportunities she saw for herself. And so, Mirabelle continued to hold her hand.


    "Callie, you can hit me or scold me if you''re angry. Just don''t be so hard on yourself. How about I help you up?"


    As Mirabelletched onto Calista again, a chill shed in thetter''s eyes. She pulled her hand free and pped Mirabelle across the face, leaving her dazed for quite a while. Kallum opened his mouth, seemingly willing to let Calista vent her anger.


    "How dare you hit me?"


    A sh of resentment sparked in Mirabelle''s eyes. This was the first time someone had hit her.


    However, she couldn''t cause trouble due to her image. Instead, she covered her face, and in an instant,rge tears began to fall, making her look incredibly pitiful.


    "You''ve changed, Callie. You used to-"


    "Didn''t you say it was okay for me to hit you and scold you?"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Struggling somewhat, Calista gradually rose to her feet. At that moment, she showed no signs of frailty. Instead, she exuded an icy chill, a cold indifference that could not be dispelled.


    "I..." Mirabelle was taken aback by what Calista had just said.


    Gritting her teeth, she choked up and sobbed, "Go ahead, then. Hit me! You can do whatever you want to me as long as you''re not angry at Kal."


    This is the perfect opportunity for Mr. Kallum to see just how vicious Calista really is!


    "Remember what you said!" Calista smiled and took a slight breath before delivering another p.


    "This p is meant to tell you to watch your words in the future. My mother only had me, so I don''t have any siblings, nor do I have friends like you."


    Calista was ill andcking strength, but a p to the face was an utter humiliation.


    Everything Mirabelle endured today, she would surely repay in kind.


    Mirabelle''s face was knocked askew, and beneath her bangs, her eyes were filled with a tangible murderous intent. But when she turned back, she went back to putting on a pitiful look. Calista couldn''t help butugh, and without holding back, she pped Mirabelle again. "This p is the interest I''m returning for all the things you''ve done to me!"


    Regardless of whether she had been drugged orter framed and betrayed, Calista had long since wanted to p her. She had absolutely no tolerance for women with ulterior motives, and often thought of putting an end to them.


    The sorrow she had just experienced must have been an illusion, for now, she felt extremely ted.


    After three ps, Mirabelle was finding it hard to bear. At that moment, she wished that Kallum would intervene. Yet, Kallum didn''t even utter a single word.


    Drained of all energy, Calista no longer continued hitting her. She figured she could settle the scores with Mirabelle in the future. At that moment, Calista couldn''t bear to stick around for even a second longer.


    Calista removed her thumb ring and


    let out a scoff as she said, "I''m done


    with this man. You don''t need to settle for less or feelpelled to steal your good friend''s man either. I wish you all the best, may all your desires be fulfilled, and may you enjoy a harmonious rtionship."


    Mirabelle''s gaze was fixated on the thumb ring in her hand, a flicker of obsession shing deep within her eyes. Only by possessing it could she truly be thedy of the house in the Fairchild Manor.


    She had assumed that Calista was going to hand it over to her, so she reached out to ept it. But the very next moment, Calista ruthlessly smashed it onto the ground. Instantly, the thumb ring shattered into pieces.


    In the shimmer of shattered pieces, all illusions of affection Calista once held were broken. As for the humiliation and shame she endured, she still remembered them vividly.


    If I can''t have something, then no one else can!


    Kallum hadn''t anticipated that Calista would actually smash the thumb ring. His original n was to give her the ring and have the Fairchild family adopt her as an goddaughter, which would ensure her an easy life. However, she had smashed it into pieces.


    This indicated her utter disdain for


    him and her hatred toward him.


    Although this was what he had


    ele


    initially hoped for, a bitter taste still


    S throat. It was as if a


    filled hist


    massive hole had been torn in his heart, leaving him unable to find


    peace even in death.


    When Calista emerged, the path was clear. However, upon reaching the door, she was stopped by Paul.


    "Ms. Stafford, you''repletely drenched. You should change your clothes before you leave."


    Seemingly deaf to her surroundings, Calista continued to walk away swiftly, her expression gloomy. It was as if she would lose her sanity if she lingered for even a second longer. "Ms. Stafford!"


    Paul became frantic and instinctively stepped in front of Calista.


    "Ms. Stafford, it''s fine if you don''t want to change your clothes, but where are you heading? May I apany you?"


    Calista''s gaze gradually shifted toward him. Under the gloomy sky, Paul surprisingly noticed a ring of blood-red color around the edges of Calista''s ink-ck pupils. "Step aside!"


    Undeterred, Paul raised the clothes in his hands.


    "Ms. Stafford, I still think you should-"


    Calista took the clothes, only to immediately toss them on the ground. The rain instantly soaked them through. Taking advantage of Paul''s shock, Calista stepped over the clothes and walked away. She didn''t want to ept any more favors from the Fairchild family. The mere thought of her considering, in a moment of foolishness, to give Kallum a chance, seemed utterly ludicrous to her. After covering some distance, Calista looked back. She cast a nce at the mansion that stretched over five kilometers behind her and let out a cold, mockingugh.


    Under the gloomy rain, her doctor''s uniform appeared starkly white, and her face was equally devoid of color.


    "The Fairchild family? Kallum? Heh..."


    She turned her head and walked away without ncing back even once.


    The past felt like a dream to her, but now, that dream had shattered, and she was left with nothing but hatred. Truly, she had never felt more at ease than she did in that moment.


    She had no idea how long she had


    been walking when a car from the Fairchild family arrived. They insisted on giving her a ride and even offered her an umbre, but Calista simply stood in the rain in the middle of the road. She wouldn''t move unless the car left. After all, the rain wouldn''t kill her.

 Chapter 116 Who Else But You Can Protect Her

    Her stubbornness, which used to be deeply ingrained, was now fully exposed, making her even colder and tougher. It left everyone around her utterly helpless. Paul was at a loss and eventually let out a helpless sigh.


    Back when Ms. Stafford had feelings for Mr. Kallum, she was gentle and frail. However, in the face of Mr. Kallum''s disdain and the problems caused by others, she demonstrated unexpected resilience. I already knew right from the start that Ms. Stafford had a tough side about her. While her edges had been dulled due to family circumstances, she was sharp at heart. It was this tenacity that allowed her to hold onto her affection for Mr. Kallum for eleven years without wavering. Despite the oppression from her stepmother, she remained exceptionally bright, and her brilliance shone unmatched in the field of medicine. It''s just a pity that Mr. Kallum is on the brink of death...


    A glimmer of moisture appeared in Paul''s eyes at the thought of that.


    Suddenly, a phone call came through. Paul wiped his eyes before answering the phone, only to be met with bad news from the very first sentence.


    "Hurry back! Something happened to Mr. Kallum!"


    "Understood!" The driver instinctively turned the car around, a hint of bewilderment in his voice. "How could something have happened to Mr. Kallum? Wasn''t it said that Mr. Kallum had at least a month''s time left?" Paul remained silent as he had already figured out what was going on.


    At that moment, the Fairchild family was in a state of utter chaos.


    Suddenly, Kallum began to vomit blood uncontrobly. Mirabelle was forcibly quarantined, and Kallum was rushed to the emergency room for immediate medical attention.


    In the midst of chaos, upon hearing Paul''s return, Kallum, with his eyes closed, grabbed hold of Paul''s arm.


    "She..." Kallum mumbled weakly as he struggled to speak.


    Paul, feeling sympathetic, sped his hand in return. "Please don''t worry, Mr. Kallum. I''ve asked the driver to take Ms. Stafford to the hospital..."


    Upon hearing those words, Kallum suddenly opened his eyes. His dark purple irises momentarily lost focus, before finally settling intently on Paul.


    "You''re lying..." His voice was so hoarse that it was barely audible.


    Paul, left with no choice, admitted with a choked voice, "Ms. Stafford refused to get in the car. She wouldn''t even take the umbre we offered. She chose to walk in the rain-" Before Paul could finish his words, Kallum coughed up another mouthful of blood.


    With a single spurt of blood, the color drained dramatically from his face, making him look utterly exhausted.


    "Get out!" The sudden outburst from Shaun startled everyone. His annoyance was evident as he pushed Paul away. As a result, Kallum''s grip loosened, and he found himself sinking into a state of delirium. Shaun had someone rush Kallum into the emergency room, while simultaneously giving Paul a shove.


    "How could you be so blunt, Paul? Mr. Kallum''s condition is so critical that he could die if he can''t pull through! Ss and Wanda are


    currently out seeking renowned


    doctors. If anything bad were to happen to Mr. Kallum before their return, are you able to bear that responsibility?"


    After Kallum was rushed into the emergency room, he was still unconsciously calling out to Calista.


    The doctor held his hand and lied by saying, "Don''t worry, Mr. Kallum. Ms. Stafford still cares for you. As long as you recover, you can be with her again."


    Kallum''s heart, however, seemed as if it had plunged into the darkest depths.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She won''t care about me anymore. Even if I had revealed the truth to her, her feelings for me won''t return. She''s simply that resolute. She even smashed the ring I gave her... Upon seeing Kallum''s rapidly declining heartbeat, the doctors grew frantic. At this rate, Kallum was certain to die.


    Suddenly, Quintus, who was on the edge of eagerness, carefully removed a chain from around Kallum''s neck. Hanging from the chain was a diamond ring.


    Lostaria was known for its diamonds, and this pink diamond was the perfect engagement ring that Kallum had found. His original n was to propose as soon as he returned. He did not intend to drive Calista away and force her to dislike him.


    Quintus forcefully pressed the ring into Kallum''s hand and said repeatedly,


    "Mr. Kallum, the thumb ring may be gone, but the wedding ring is still here! Weren''t you nning to marry Ms. Calista? Only if you survive, can you be with her!"


    Unconsciously, Kallum clutched the ring tightly in his grasp, only Calista had the power to make him willingly let go of it.


    Seeing that it was effective, Quintus


    quickly continued, "Mr. Kallum,


    there''s something I haven''t told you, out of fear of causing you worry. The truth is, Uriah''s abduction of Ms. Calista involved the Wolford family''s schemes. The entire Wolford family are nothing but despicable viins! If you were to die, Ms. Calista would surely be tormented by Harvey and Sterling! Ms. Calista may be formidable, but can she stand against such a powerful family? Mr.


    Kallum, can you bear to see her


    suffer? Who else but you can protect her?"


    Every time Quintus spoke, the beat of Kallum''s heart intensified. Eventually, his heartbeat gradually returned to normal.


    A nurse turned away to wipe her tears. Just how much affection must''ve been required for someone on the brink of death to fight for their life upon hearing their loved one was in danger?


    Upon seeing Kallum''s strong will to


    live, all the doctors breathed a sigh of relief. Some of them even found themselves drenched in sweat, but they couldn''t stop now. This was only the first step, and they still had to save him.


    Quintus stepped back, his eyes reddening with worry as he anxiously watched over Kallum.


    He knew that Kallum would not dare to face death before ensuring a secure future for Calista. As long as he clung to life, there was hope. He was certain that Ss and the others would find a way to save Kallum.

 Chapter 117 Awakening Of The Spirit

    Quintus gritted his teeth, turned around, and left the emergency room. He stripped off his protective clothing and dashed frantically outside.


    The heavy rain continued to pour, but it didn''t matter. He was determined to find Calista and reveal everything to her.


    He wanted to tell her what Kallum had done for her and inform her that Kallum had not given up on her.


    Quintus wanted Calista to know that Kallum was even willing to risk everything to save her.


    He wanted to let her know that Kallum didn''t intend to drive her away. He was merely afraid of infecting her, terrified of her dying, scared of breaking her heart.


    Mr. Kallum had taken all the me upon himself, yet the woman he adored despised him. I cannot allow this! Mr. Kallum had saved so many people and aplished so much, so why is he tormented by physical and emotional pain in his final moments? This isn''t fair! Unfortunately, Quintus couldn''t find Calista even though he searched for a long time. Little did he know, Calista had run into an "acquaintance".


    After walking for a while, Calista''s extreme emotions gradually subsided. Her vision, previously clouded by emotions, slowly cleared up. As she looked up at the gloomy sky, she noticed that the rain had stopped.


    A luxury car pulled up beside her. She wasn''t surprised at all when she saw that it was Jarrett.


    The agreement was to treat Ambrose once a month, and the time had already passed. Jarrett would seek her out immediately as soon as he knew she hade to. Not wanting to return empty-handed, he guessed where she might have gone and decided to intercept her on this road.


    His expression was incrediblyplex, yet he didn''t utter a word about Calista''s deception to go to Lostaria. He simply told her, "Get in the car."


    Calista nodded as she was also beginning to feel worn out. As the car sped away, leaving a trail of dust behind, she took some antipyretics inside the vehicle and started to rest her eyes.


    Upon reaching their destination, Calista intended to check on Ambrose. However, Jarrett forcefully kept her in the guest room.


    "Go to sleep! Do you want to spread your cold to Ambrose?"


    With a stern expression, he instructed someone to take Calista for a bath, then had her wrapped up in bed.


    After struggling a few times, Calista found herself unable to move and thus, resigned herself to sleep. However, her brows were slightly furrowed, as if she was gued by endless worries.


    Word had reached Jarrett about Kallum. It was said that Kallum had treated Calista well before, but once Mirabelle returned, his affections seemed to have shifted back to thetter. Many were gossiping that Mirabelle was the true object of Kallum''s affection, and he was merely fooling around by entering a rtionship with Calista.


    He initially didn''t believe it, but seeing Calista''s appearance today, he felt a mix of anger and a slight hint of joy, although he himself didn''t even realize it.


    "Did Kallum bully you?"


    Noticing that Calista seemed to have barely slept, Jarrett suddenly broke the silence. Beneath his sses, his eyes were somewhat mischievous, glinting with an unexinable light.


    Seeing that Calista did not respond, he asked again, "Do you want me to handle Mirabelle for you? You seem to really dislike her."


    He sat at the edge of the bed, leaning in just a tad closer as he continued, "Kallum has changed his heart. Don''t you want revenge?" Suddenly, Calista said with her eyes closed, "No."


    "What?" Jarrett blinked in confusion.


    "Kallum hasn''t fallen out of love." Calista opened her eyes. If she had doubted his feelings before, it was no longer the case. Kallum hadn''t uttered a single word when she confronted Mirabelle earlier, which clearly showed that her suspicions were unfounded.


    Jarrett gave a light snort and asked, "You haven''t given up on him, have you?"


    "No. It''s precisely because I''ve given up that my wits have returned, allowing me to see things more clearly," Calista replied, her voice hoarse and tinged with a hint of coldness.


    Leaving aside all the messy spections and speaking from facts, Kallum wasn''t the type to change his mind easily. This was evident from how he had disliked her till hisst breath in his previous life. Once he made up his mind, he wouldn''t change it.N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    In Lostaria, he had earnestly promised to marry her. The look in his eyes back then was undoubtedly sincere. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have been swayed so easily.


    It seemed as though something had been different ever since she returned.


    Who was it that saved me? Why did


    Kallum''s attitude suddenly change? Why were there so few people in Fairchild Manor? Is it really possible that Kallum didn''t know I had arrived? Perhaps not. He knew, yet he put on a show for me, which was clearly aimed to push me away. So, aside from falling out of love, what other reason could there be that kept him from being with me? Threats from others? That''s impossible. Even when overseas, Kallum held a status second to none, let alone back in his home country. Disapproval from his parents? That''s highly unlikely too. Ss holds Wanda in high regard, and Wanda is quite fond of me. The marriage arrangement was essentially set in stone due to Wanda''s adamant insistence. Once all external factors are eliminated, only personal reasons remain. Under circumstances where Kallum''s feelings remain unchanged, only personal reasons could''ve prevented Kallum from being with me.


    Jarrett felt somewhat annoyed when he saw that Calista was still defending Kallum. He pulled up the nket, covering Calista''s mouth as he said, ''Don''t idealize men too much. With his power and influence, his heart could change in an instant. Mirabelle is no simple woman either. Everyone in Horington says she''s the perfect woman to marry, which just goes to show how cunning she can be."


    "What kind of injury did Kallum sustain?" Calista asked without responding to his previous statement.


    To Jarrett, this was a clear disy of Calista''s deep affection, so much so that she was still worried about Kallum at that time.


    He was upset, and his tone of voice only worsened.

 Chapter 118 Critical Condition

    "I don''t know! the Fairchild family has shut themselves away from visitors. Aside from Mirabelle, no one else has seen Kallum himself."


    He bit out the name "Mirabelle" forcefully. In truth, he had no idea about the specifics of Kallum''s condition, but the fact that Kallum didn''t even go to the hospital indicated that his injuries weren''t serious.


    As expected, even Jarrett was unaware. Coupled with the fact that the Fairchild family rejected visitors and the number of servants in the house dwindled, the answer became increasingly clear-Kallum had contracted a perilous illness, which was likely contagious. Moreover, the fact that he put on such a performance in front of her clearly indicated that his condition might be incurable.


    He had suddenly returned from Lostaria, a ce notorious for its many infectious diseases. The most prevalent among them had been influenza T, which had already been eradicated. However, there was still another virus, a dangerous and highly contagious disease for which there was no known cure the K Virus.


    So it''s the K Virus?


    Calista felt likeughing but couldn''t bring herself to. Kallum had been fine in her previous life and had never once been diagnosed with the K Virus. How could this happen?


    Calista couldn''t help but recall the few months when Kallum was injured in her previous life. He wasn''t allowed any visitors then either. Perhaps Kallum had also fallen ill in her previous life, but he had timely received an antibody injection, making him one of the few lucky ones to survive. That was why he had suddenly returned to the country, spending those few months recuperating at home.


    But why did he manage to survive in the previous life but not in this one? Did my presence trigger a butterfly effect?


    Calista had to admit that after moving on, she had be much more perceptive. She could easily analyze the details of situations, and her deductions were almost always urate. With that thought in mind, she grew restless and sat up.


    For the first time since her rebirth, a sense of bewilderment filled her eyes. I had been tormented by the K Virus for several years in my previous life. And in this life, it''s Kallum''s turn? "Jarrett, if someone was trapped because of you, and you were probably the only one in the world who could save them, would you?" she asked.


    At first, Jarrett assumed that Calista was referring to Kallum. However, he quickly dismissed this idea, considering there was hardly any issue Calista could resolve that the Fairchild family couldn''t. His mood improved as he thought of that. He was more than willing to answer that question as long as it wasn''t about Kallum.


    "It depends on whether this person is worth it or not. He might''ve been trapped because of you, but it''s not like you asked him to do so. No one''s forced to do what they don''t want to, right? Plus, if saving him was going to be a hassle, you should naturally consider his worth." Jarrett''s eyes beneath his sses held a ruthless, icy glint as his lips curved into a cold smirk.


    Calista nodded in agreement. "Yes. His worth."


    Previously, she had been bewitched, swayed unintentionally by Kallum''s fervent pursuit, causing her to lose a part of herself. However, after that faint affection had been shattered, her resolve was strengthened, and she was aware of her current situation.


    She had always been hesitant to reveal her true abilities because she didn''t have a powerful backing. If she were to take action, she could end up in the same predicament as her previous life. Jarrett''s capabilities were sufficient


    capabilities were SIPE


    Within


    the country, but still slightlycking.


    And Kallum is indeed... a suitable choice.


    She had the means to prolong his life. Moreover, it took the research center over three painstaking years to develop the K Virus antiserum using her blood in her previous life. Therefore, she was the only person in this world who could save Kallum.


    This time around, she wasn''t going to save him for nothing. After all, the thumb ring was already smashed, and her status as a fianc¨¦e was nothing more than a title now. The deal they had discussed before could finallye into y.


    In a fleeting moment, a flurry of


    thoughts raced through Calista''s mind. She could directly negotiate


    ???


    with Ss, bing the adopted t


    daughter of the Fairchild family Since Kallum believed that his end was near, he would certainly not refuse in order to leave her with a way out.


    Once she had a powerful backing, not only could she exact revenge with her own capabilities, but also alleviate the current dangerous situation.


    Looks like I''m still sticking to my original n. The only difference is that this time, I will no longer waver. My nemesis is still alive. I can''t afford to entertain irrelevant thoughts.


    Calista shed a slight smile, an unwavering determination discernible in her gaze.N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Jarrett was perplexed when he saw his response bringing a smile to Calista''s face. Instead of exining, Calista simply said, "It''s gettingte. Let''s prioritize treating Ambrose first. With me around, he''ll recover in no time." Jarrett had wanted to stop Calista because she hadn''t fully rested yet. However, seeing that she was in a good mood and her fever had subsided, he decided not to voice his concerns. Instead, he brought her to treat Ambrose''s illness. Upon hearing the news of Kallum''s critical illness, Ss and Wanda, who were overseas, rushed back.


    Kallum had already made it through the critical stage and was now recuperating.


    However, the recent episode had drastically shortened Kallum''s lifespan, which was originally expected tost another month. Shaun didn''t dare to lie. He told Ss the truth-Kallum probably had less than a week to live. "Kallum!" Upon hearing this, Wanda broke down in tears immediately. She and Ss were deeply in love, and Kallum was their only son. The fact that they had to lose their child was uneptable to her.


    "What happened? Kallum was perfectly fine. How did he suddenly fall ill?" Ss roared.

 Chapter 119 Propose A Deal

    His eyes were bloodshot as he questioned the people in the room. However, no one dared to answer; Kallum had already imposed a gag order.


    When no one spoke up, Ss assumed that the virus just suddenly red up. After all, the K Virus was unpredictable once it entered the human body. No one could foresee what might happen next. The only certainty was that no one infected had survived past a month. In order not to disturb Kallum''s rest, the couple could only check on him from outside the door before leaving to search for a cure.


    After they left, Kallum opened his eyes. His deep purple irises, which seemed to be a lighter shade at that moment, appeared stunningly brilliant.


    He could no longer repay his parents for everything they did for him. Even without him, they could still lead a good life. However, it was different for Calista. Since Harvey and the Wolfords had set their sights on Calista, the best solution was to make Calista the Fairchild family''s goddaughter.


    With the Fairchild family backing her, she was bound to lead a worry-free life.


    However, to Kallum''s surprise, Calista came the following evening.


    Kallum was puzzled when he received the message. He hadn''t seen Mirabelle again after yesterday. Did Calista notice something?


    He was torn, hoping Calista could notice his feelings yet at the same time didn''t want her to know.N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    However, oddly enough, Calista met Ss first.


    At that time, Ss was overwhelmed with responsibilities. Handing over the Fairchild Group to his son had been the best decision. Kallum was talented and intelligent, young but unstoppable. Under his leadership, thepany''s profits soared, injecting the family business with new life and vigor, which made Ss both satisfied and proud.


    But now, Ss found himself in a dire situation. Not only did he have to temporarily step back into Kallum''s role, but he also had to actively search for doctors who might save his son. Additionally, he needed to keep the family''s predicament hidden from outsiders. There were so many tasks to manage that he wished he could split himself into several pieces to handle it all.


    When Calista requested to see him, he was initially quite annoyed. However, recalling some rumors that suggested his son might be fond of Calista, he frowned and reluctantly agreed to meet her.


    Ss was a serious and stoic man. Previously, he spent most of his time expanding his territory in Machia, so Calista rarely saw him.


    Stepping into the Fairchild Manor once again, Calista found herself much calmer and at peace. The subtle aggression she exuded made Ss, who had initially looked down on her, tone down his contempt. Ss scrutinized the girl who stepped gracefully into the residence. She wasn''t like this before. Although she looks the same, the change in her demeanor is drastic. It''s like two different people!


    Ss became more serious and asked in a deep voice, "Are you here to see Kallum?"


    Ket


    He couldn''t think of any other possibilities than this. In order to prevent the spread of the infection, Kallum''s living quarters had been dered off-limits. Everyone exiting Kallum''s room had to be tested for the virus first before they were permitted to leave. Thus, it was only normal that Calista was forbidden from seeing Kallum.


    However, Calista shook her head. "No, I came to see you."


    "See me?" Ss tensed up, his intimidating gaze boring into the girl. "What do you want from me?"


    Calista got straight to the point. "Is it true that Kallum contracted the K Virus?"


    That one single sentence from her was nothing short of shocking.


    Ss'' gaze hardened, and a man emerged from the shadows. Apparently, if necessary, Ss would not hesitate to silence Calista for good.


    "Who else knows about this matter?" Ss blurted out.


    Calista smiled, her eyes twinkling as she spoke with an air of unruffled calmness. "Oh, I figured that out myself. I came to this conclusion because I was also in Lostaria when Kallum was there. As of now, I''m the only one who knows about this." As soon as Calista finished speaking, she could feel the man lurking behind her draw closer. Yet, she remained unfazed, her gaze steadily fixed on Ss.


    "Also, I came specifically because of his illness," she said.


    "You''re trying to threaten me with Kallum''s matter?" Ss narrowed his eyes, a subtle hint of murderous exuding from him. His tone changed too as he tried to discern Calista''s intentions. "Or... are you trying to ckmail me?"


    As his words trailed off, the man


    hidden in the shadows emerged behind Calista. She could sense the lurking danger, but instead of turning around, she shook her head


    nonchntly, a half-smile ying on her lips. "No, that''s not it. I came here to propose a no-lose-deal."


    Ss appeared uninterested as Calista heard the faint sound of a gun being cocked behind her. In the dimly lit room, every noise was crystal clear. Anyone timid or of weaker resolve would likely have been too terrified to speak coherently. But fear seemed to elude Calista. Despite knowing that a single misstep in her next words could result in her being shot, she didn''t show a hint of trepidation.


    Herposure caused Ss to waver, prompting him to ask, "What kind of deal?"


    In reality, he didn''t believe that


    Calista had anything that could sway him. Therefore, the man behind Calista didn''t back down. His gun was already aimed at the back of Calista''s head. After all, the K-Virus'' matter was of utmost importance and could not be taken lightly.


    "I can prolong Kallum''s life. I''m using this to propose a deal." Calista dropped yet another bombshell.

 Chapter 120 The Perfect Opportunity

    Upon hearing this, Ss was momentarily stunned, but he quickly regained hisposure, his expression growing even more somber. "Youngdy, who gave you the audacity to brag so shamelessly?" The K virus was a global conundrum. Numerous experts had been left stumped by it. How can Calista possibly do anything about it? She''s only eighteen!


    Calista brushed away the non-existent dust from the hem of her skirt and chuckled lightly. "People infected with the K Virus would immediately develop a feversting three days. If they didn''t die within that time, they would gradually experience brain atrophy, leading to paralysis of their limbs. Some individuals would even suffer from skin decay. Theplications varied greatly depending on the individual''s constitution, but they all shared one grim characteristic-none of them survived beyond a month." Ss remained silent upon realizing that Calista was well-versed in the K Virus.


    Calista spoke again. "Whether I''m of any use depends on if I can prolong Kallum''s life. If I can''t, it won''t be toote for you to kill me. But if I can, I might be the only person in the world who can fully cure him. So why not let me try?"


    Upon reflection, Ss realized that things couldn''t possibly get any worse than they already were. They had nothing more to lose.


    Moreover, Shaun had mentioned that Kallum had less than a week to live. All he needed was to keep Calista around for a week, and he would naturally find out whether she was lying or not.


    "If you agree, I''m willing to stay until I gain your trust," Calista suggested at the right moment.


    Her calmness kindled a sudden hope in Ss. After all, if she''s not sure, she wouldn''t have gambled with her life.


    "What do you want then?" asked Ss.


    Ss was well aware that the K Virus was not easy to conquer. Calista had only mentioned prolonging Kallum''s life, not curing him. Therefore, her request probably wasn''t to marry his son.


    Calista smiled with determination in her gaze as she dered, "If I could extend his lifespan and alleviate his condition, I want you and the Fairchild family to ept me as your goddaughter, treating me like your own."


    Ss widened his eyes as wrath surged in him. This girl is so ambitious! She''s after the Fairchild family''s assets! She might have a method to prolong Kallum''s life, but that''s likely just a gimmick. Her real aim is to be the Fairchild family''s goddaughter! Once Kallum is gone, her status will soar to new heights. If that''s the case, she might not even want Kallum to live!


    The tension in the air became palpable, the pressure mounting with each passing moment. Sensing Ss'' thoughts, Calista spoke before he could. "We can establish an agreement. You would publicly acknowledge me as your goddaughter, but I wouldn''t have any inheritance rights to the Fairchild family wealth. I''ve offended some powerful people and need the Fairchild family''s protection, that''s all. If Kallum were to die, our contract would be null and void, and I''d be at the Fairchild family''s mercy. But as long as Kallum lives, the Fairchild family would protect me. This arrangement wouldn''t harm your family. After all, I wouldn''t gamble with my own life."


    Calista''s words made sense, and Ss couldn''t help but wonder if she was confident or downright crazy!


    Right then, Calista dropped another bombshell. "By the way, I was the one who conquered Influenza T. Since I was able to do that, do you think there''s anyone else in this


    world more qualified to trum


    than me?"


    She held her head high, an air of confidence radiating from within her, making her appear assertive.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Tilting her chin slightly upward, even her smile looked intimidating.


    Ss had to be admit he was convinced. He never expected this girl to be the one who conquered the influenza in Lostaria.


    Calista had no reason to lie, for it would have been easily exposed. She came because she had the capability. Since that was the case, he was willing to take the risk and give her a chance.


    "All right, I agree to this deal, In fact,


    Kallum only has a week left to live..." As soon as Ss said that, the assassin behind Calista silently left He let out a sigh and went on, "I''m not sure what happened. Everything was fine before this, but yesterday, Kattum suddenly fell ill. He had a month left to live before his illness red up, but now he only has a week. Are you still confident?"


    Hearing that, Calista narrowed her eyes and smiled. "In that case, it''s the perfect opportunity for me to show you what I can do."


    Kallum waited anxiously in his room, wondering why Calista hade. Why did she go straight to meet Dad? Could she havee to officially call off the engagement? This is the only possibility.


    A wry smile yed at the corners of Kallum''s lips. Well, this is, in fact, what I want.


    He thought that Calista would leave as soon as she met Ss, but surprisingly, she came to see him.


    The door swung open. Although Kallum knew that Calista wasing, the moment heid eyes on her, he instinctively held his breath.


    If the past Calista was like a rose with thorns all over, the current Calista seemed more like a sword. Her gaze itself was sharp and piercing.


    Compared to Mirabelle, who gave


    off an aura of grace and pure beauty when wearing a white dress, Calista looked extremely ruthless and cold in a white dress, striking such fear in one''s heart that not even the faint smile on her face exuded any warmth whatsoever. It was uncanny how the same color could look so different on two women.


    The two looked at each other wordlessly. Suddenly, Calista cocked her head, staring at him curiously.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 121 The Right Choice

    She asked, "Don''t you have anything you want to say to me?"


    Kallum pursed his lips together.


    Calista approached him step by step. "Why did you suddenly fall for someone else?"


    Kallum scoffed, his handsome face looking almost ethereal under the light. Despite theplex emotions in his eyes, his expression was one of disdain. "Is there a reason for that? Afterparing you with Mirabelle, I realized she is much gentler, more understanding, and more suited to be with me than you!"


    Calista listened quietly. Herck of reaction caused Kallum''s heart to sink, for he knew she remained indifferent even to his provocative words because she no longer cared about him.


    Fury welled up in Kallum''s heart, yet he couldn''t discern whether it was directed at her or at himself.


    "Given that you''ve already ruined the thumb ring, this marriage is naturally off the table. What are you even doing here?" he asked.


    Calista sat down by the bed, her voice barely a whisper. "Calm down."


    Her smile remained unchanged as she suddenly asked in a soft voice, "Who do you think is prettier, Mirabelle or me?"


    Kallum was taken aback, his face flushing. I was humiliating her! How did the subject suddenly change to this? Does she not care at all?


    Casting a nce at Calista, he found her truly captivating. Her delicate features and exceptional demeanor set her apart. Moreover, she seemed to possess a depth that suggested she had weathered the world''s trials. Kallum had met many women, but few could match Calista in appearance.


    Of course, this might simply be a case of love blinding him to her ws.


    Kallum didn''t respond, prompting Calista to ask again, "Are you and Mirabelle now together?"


    Kallum''s hand, which was resting at his side, suddenly clenched. Together... What does that mean?


    He didn''t want to respond, but he still remembered his purpose, so he spoke with an indifferent tone. "Yes, we''re together now."


    Calista''s smile grew increasingly tender. She moved a little closer, lowering her voice to ask, "So, do you think you''re morefortable with me or with her? And by ''together,'' I mean together in a dirty way..."


    The ambiguous glint in Calista''s eye coupled with the fragrance emanating from her made Kallum want to pull away from her. The room was eerily silent at that moment, amplifying the sound of his own heart pounding wildly in his chest.


    The woman was so seductive, her starry eyes filled with a mesmerizing allure.


    Naturally, Kallum couldn''t answer that. I''ve only ever slept with Calista... How would I know if I''mfortable with other women? Plus, I''m sure Calista can''t ever bepared to any other woman!


    Calista had no intention of giving Kallum a chance to respond either. She slowly closed the gap between them, and before long, they were mere inches away from each other.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    She lowered her voice, which was


    enjoyed the best and the finest, did


    you push me away and choose a


    pampered scion who has


    wed product?"


    Kallum''s heart was pounding harder by the minute. Calista''s suggestive and provocative words could make any man''s hormones skyrocket, leading them to act without thinking.


    He wanted to hold her tight and silence her with his lips, swallowing all herints, but he couldn''t.


    Kallum closed his eyes, gritting his teeth as he gave up on himself and blurted out, "I''ve gotten sick ofvish meals. Is it wrong to crave some simple food?"


    Calista burst intoughter. He''s actually quite adorable. No wonder I fell for him.


    "Sure." Calista nodded, leaning forward, her eyes meeting Kallum''s as she continued, "So, having tried some simple food, do you really want that for the rest of your life?"


    Kallum found himself backed into a corner, with no room to retreat. He wished he could be more ruthless and continue uttering harsh words, but as he looked into her eyes, all he wanted was to cherish and love her. No. I can''t go soft on her! I must make her give up!


    Kallum narrowed his eyes and parted his lips, his voice deep. "You-"


    Interrupting him, Calista asked, "Do you still want to kiss me?"


    "I..." Kallum''s eyes widened as his gaze lingered on Calista''s lips for a moment. Steeling himself, he pushed her away. "You''re a woman! Have you no sense of shame?"


    He tried hard to pull off an expression of disgust, yet the look in his eyes gave him away.


    With a light chuckle, Calista casually reclined on the bed, looking nonchnt.


    "So, what do you n to do with me? If you''re not going to marry me, shouldn''t there be some sort ofpensation?" she teased, letting her rare mischievous side show.


    That statement of hers was exactly


    what Kallum was waiting for. He feigned hesitation for a moment before saying annoyedly, "You just want money, right? As long as you stop pestering me, I''ll have the Fairchild family adopt you as their goddaughter! You''ve always wanted to be a part of the Fairchild family, haven''t you? Now your dream hase true. You''re wee!"


    That way, Calista won''t have to worry about anything in the future. I''m sure my parents will grant myst wish When I pass away, the outside world will only assume that my death is sudden. Callie hates me and is unaware of the real reason, so even if she learns about my death, she won''t grieve.


    Kallum closed his eyes, persuading himself that he made the right choice.

 Chapter 122 Farewell Kiss

    He said, "I''ll discuss this matter with my family tomorrow. You should get ready to inform your father about the cancetion of our engagement."


    The smile gradually faded from Calista''s face. She hadn''t expected Kallum, even on the brink of death, to arrange this for her.


    Had she not been humiliated and given up on Kallum, perhaps she wouldn''t have figured out the real reason. But now, she had moved on. She was touched to know his intentions, but she would not fall for him again.


    It''s just sad, that''s all. Perhaps we''re always destined to cross paths yet never meant to be together.


    Seeing that Calista didn''t respond, Kallum, fearing rejection, spoke hastily. "What, you''re not satisfied? Listen, the chances of me marrying you are now zero. If you don''t ept the goddaughter title now, you''ll lose the opportunity forever!"


    Calista lowered her gaze, lost in thought for a moment, then suddenly looked at him and shed a charming smile. She proposed, "Let''s do it this way. If you give me onest kiss, we can put all our past behind us. Then, I''ll be the Fairchild family''s goddaughter."


    Calista''s suggestion stirred an uncontroble flutter in Kallum''s previously calm heart. Hisst shred of sanity held him back, yet he found himself unable to utter a word of refusal.


    "What do you think? Or are you so disgusted of me that you can''t even spare a single kiss?" Her voice held a mncholic undertone as she looked at him, his gaze seeming to carry a hint of sorrow.


    This might be hisst chance to kiss her.


    Though he wanted to refuse, that thought overwhelmed him.


    His heart clenched, and ultimately, he sumbed to his desire.


    "Don''t move!" After a moment of silence, Kallum suddenly made up his mind. He had taken arge amount of inhibitors, so as long as his body fluids didn''t touch Calista, the likelihood of him infecting her was very low.


    I''ll kiss her for onest time. It should be fine as long as it''s just a small peck. I''ll consider this our final farewell.


    Kallum teared up, yet he leaned forward, inching closer.


    Unlike Kallum, whose heart was racing, Calista remained calm, regarding him with an inscrutable look on her face. She even noticed his clenched fists and the fascination in his eyes.


    At that moment, it dawned on her that he was in love with her.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Kallum''s kiss gentlynded on Calista''s lips. The warmth mingled with a hint of medicinal scent, apanied by a refreshing taste.


    He barely touched her, as if he dared not delve deeper for fear of losing control over himself.


    However, he didn''t back away quickly as expected. Instead, he


    observed her lips at an


    ufortably close distance. His slightly rapid breathing revealed an inner turmoil, a far cry from calmness.


    For a fleeting moment, Kallum had the urge to make Calista his forever.


    Calista suddenly spoke up. "Actually... If you want, you can kiss me more. You''ve taken inhibitors, haven''t you? As long as-"


    Kallum widened his eyes when he heard that, and before she could finish, he leaned over and nted a few more passionate kisses on her lips.


    Then, he pulled her into his embrace and continued kissing her before resting his head on her shoulder, panting heavily. "How did you know?" he asked, out of breath.


    He suddenly remembered that she had just met his father. "Did Dad tell you?"


    That''s impossible. Getting diagnosed with the K Virus is a major issue, and if word gets out, the Fairchild family will be affected. There''s no way Dad will tell anyone! Due to the proximity, Calista could hear Kallum''s intense heartbeat and said honestly, "I guessed it myself."


    "You!" Kallum let her go and recalled how she had provoked him earlier, realizing it was all a game to her. His face flushed red with annoyance.


    "Yes?" Calista smiled mischievously and said, "Since you deceived me, why can''t I make fun of you?"


    Kallum closed his eyes and sighed after a moment of silence. "You didn''t tell Dad your guess, right?"


    She probably didn''t. If she had, she wouldn''t be sitting here. She would''ve either been imprisoned by Dad and only released after I was dead, or she would''ve been killed outright.


    Once again, Calista disappointed him by saying, "I did tell him. I even told him that I might be able to save you on one condition-that I be the Fairchild family''s goddaughter." Kallum eximed in frustration, "You''re crazy!"


    He held her in his arms, refusing to


    let go, yet the look in his eyes was stern. "Do you know what you''re doing? The K Virus is not just a flo It''s a global crisis! I''ll help you if you want to be the Fairchild family''s goddaughter. Why did you do that?"


    Calista gazed at the man with a zed look in her eyes. "Of course, I know what I''m doing. I won''t ask for any favors from you. I''ll earn what want through my own strength. As for yesterday''s matter, I''ll let it slide since you were trying to help me even on your deathbed. But don''t meddle in my affairs anymore. All I need is for you to believe in me."


    Upon seeing the resolute look in her eyes, Kallum knew that nothing he said would change her mind. As expected, she has moved on.


    Calista freed herself from his embrace and sat up straight, finally assuming a serious demeanor.

 Chapter 123 Obligated To Save Him

    "All right, now can you tell me how you fell ill?" she asked.


    She had spent the entire day watching the news, and the fact that there wasn''t a single mention of the K Virus struck her as odd.


    Kallum''s gaze dimmed slightly, then he recounted the ins and outs of the entire situation in a somber voice.


    Calista frowned, her piercing gaze fixed on him. "Why didn''t you go straight to the military district to get an antibody injection?"


    Pressured by her gaze, Kallum was hesitant to speak, but since Calista already knew everything, there was no point in him keeping anything from her.


    Therefore, Kallum exined to her how his act of saving her dyed his injection of the antibody.


    Calista taken aback to hear that. "You''re saying... the injection was dyed because you brought help to save me? So, it was you who saved me and got the code to prevent the explosion?"


    Kallum looked away sheepishly. I didn''t hesitate one bit when saving her, so why am I feeling shy now?


    Feigning nonchnce, he spoke. "It''s not a big deal. The chance of survival after getting an antibody injection is only one percent. Even if I received the injection, I''d probably still die and also dy saving you, so I naturally chose you."


    Calista''s heart skipped a beat as she regarded him with aplex expression. He still doesn''t know that if he had received the injection in time, he could have been one of the lucky few! For most people, even a slim chance of survival-one percent, or even one in a thousand or ten thousand-would be worth it. Their own life is always the priority. Yet, Kallum chose to rescue me without hesitation. He could have survived.


    Calista recalled her previous life when Kallum "fell ill" and recovered after two months. The stark contrast between his previous fate and his current dying state was indeed because of her.


    Hence, besides his worth, she had one other unavoidable reason to save him. He was in this state because of her, so she was obligated to do so.


    Calista shook her head. It seems we''re doomed to be entwined together. But this isn''t necessarily a bad thing. I''ll save his life, and he''ll lend me his strength. Though I''m notpletely confident, I am arguably the most knowledgeable person on the K Virus. After all, I''ve been its human test subject for three long years.


    "I''m not confident in treating you,"


    Calista confessed honestly but


    added, "However, I do have a


    method that could prolong your life.


    The extent of its effectiveness


    depends on you. From now


    consider me your personal


    elf


    physician. Let''s work well together."


    Wearing aplex expression, Kallum didn''t reach out to take her extended hand. "Since you''re so well-versed in the virus, you should know how perilous my illness is. Aren''t you afraid to be close to me?"


    Calista smiled. "I''m in danger even without you. I have many enemies, yet very few support. Mr. Kallum... perhaps I''ll have to call you my brother in the future. Could you have a little faith in me? I assure you, I''m far morepetent than other doctors!"


    A smile bloomed on Kallum''s face.


    Though this was not what he


    nned, the current situation lightened his mood. He found himself looking forward to it. This works, too. I just need to be more mindful in the future. Plus, it''s nice to have her by my side for the final journey of my life.


    Calista stayed the night at the Fairchild Manor, having taken another leave of absence from school. Fortunately, her academic prowess had already surpassed the current standard; otherwise, she wouldn''t have been able to afford neglecting her studies like this. Before he left, Kallum asked her if she wanted him to intervene regarding her kidnapping and the involvement of the Wolfords.


    Calista declined the offer. Every step she took was now on the right path. It was only natural for her to settle her own grudges.


    Kallum was fully entrusted to Calista''s care. After performing acupuncture on him, she asked, "How do you feel?"


    "I feel great." Kallum nodded, his strikingly handsome yet pale face regaining some of its color. In truth, he didn''t feel any difference, but Calista''s presence made everything better.


    Calista pursed her lips while Wanda asked eagerly, "Callie, do you really have a way to extend Kallum''s lifespan?"


    "Yes." Calista nodded, sitting by


    Kallum''s bedside and exining to


    Wanda, "The medical skills I''ve


    honed since childhood could generate a unique form of energy. By employing a special acupuncture technique, fcould channel this


    energy into the patients and merge it with their bodies, thereby extending their lifespan. The tricky part, however, is that this process needs t¨¦be repeated every three days. In other words, as long as I''m alive, I can ensure to the best of my ability that Kallum won''t die. However, his body will continue to deteriorate as long as the virus lingers. My approach is merely a temporary solution, not a cure. In order to


    prevent him from turning into a zombie, or dying suddenly if the virus gets out of control, the only thing we can do is to find a cure within the time I buy for him."


    Although Calista made it sound so simple, the amount of information in her words was immense.


    Both Wanda and Kallum were amazed that Calista''s acupuncture skills could extend a patient''s life and alleviate the symptoms of the K Virus.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Wanda didn''t dwell much on that and breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing Calista''s confident demeanor. "I''m sure we can. As long as we have time, we''ll surely find a cure!"

 Chapter 124 I Want To Marry You

    Unlike his mother, Kallum pondered over Calista''s words and frowned. "So, you''re saying that you can extend anyone''s life no matter who it is or what sickness they have? Then any dying person wille seeking your help! Won''t this technique bring you harm? If it won''t, then it''s unbelievable!"


    Calista chuckled softly. Of course it''ll bring me harm! If such an amazing acupuncture technique was harmless, I would''ve dominated the world already. I was hunted down in my previous life because I mastered three extraordinary acupuncture techniques. The first was the Life Extending Needle. This method was rather aggressive as it transferred all the vitality from the acupuncturist''s body to the patient. Essentially, the patient was taking someone else''s life in order to survive. Naturally, this would significantly extend their lifespan. In the end, unless the person died from an ident, old age, or a viral infection, they could live up to the human lifespan limit.


    The Life Extending Needle she administered to Kallum was a modified version. She would administer it once every three days, each time only injecting a small amount of her energy into Kallum''s body. Although it did have some detrimental effects on her body, they weren''t too severe.


    In her previous life, those people who were desperate to stay alive naturally rejected that. Having it done every three days was akin to entrusting their lives into her hands.


    Of course, that wasn''t the only reason she was hunted down. However, in this lifetime, that would no longer happen.


    Kallum called out to Calista when he saw her lost in thought. "Calista?"


    Regaining herposure, Calista scoffed. "Yes, there is some harm, but it''s not severe. All I need is some rest. If you''re so concerned about me overexerting myself, then pray that we find a cure for the K Virus soon. That way, I won''t have to keep performing acupuncture on you."


    Wanda was instantly overwhelmed with emotion. They had been getting along well recently, leading her to believe she might even have grandchildren soon. It was unfortunate that Kallum fell ill, but despite so, Calista selflessly came to his rescue. Wanda swore to herself that if Kallum pulled through and was able to survive this, she would make him marry Calista.


    But now we don''t know for sure, so it''s best not to mention that first to avoid celebrating too early.


    "Callie, rest assured that no one will leak the news about your miraculous medical skills. The entire Fairchild family will protect you!" promised Wanda.


    After receiving Wanda''s assurance, Calista smiled. "Thanks, Mrs. Fairchild."


    "Why are you still calling me that? We''re family now! Ss told me that for the sake of treatment convenience, you''re my daughter from now on," chided Wanda.


    Once Kallum is better, Callie can transform from our goddaughter to our daughter-inw. Even if he doesn''t get better, it''ll be nice to have a daughter like Callie...


    Wanda''s face, initially lit up with joy, fell at the thought of her son''s illness. She had to constantly brace herself for the heart-wrenching possibility of outliving her child. Without a strong mentality, she wouldn''t have been able to bear it.


    Seeing Wanda''s distress, Calista reassured her, "Don''t worry. I will do my best to conquer the K Virus!"


    Wanda was fitted with relief, forcing


    a smile. "Callie, thank you! I''m touched enough to hear you say that. I''ll be off now. Once Kallum is feeling better, we''ll host a banquet and announce to the whole world that you''re my daughter!"


    Calista nodded. "You seem tired. Go get some rest. That can wait."


    Wanda acknowledged with a nod, cast another nce at her son, then left the room with teary eyes.


    After Wanda left, Kallum, still hung up on the treatment potentially bringing harm to Calista, grabbed her hand and asked earnestly, "Will treating me harm your body? Will it leave any side effects?" Calista smiled mischievously. "Instead of worrying about yourself, you''re concerned about me?"Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "Why should I be worried about myself?" he asked, having already prepared himself for the worst-death. There wasn''t any other oue worse than that.


    Calista curved her lips into an evil


    smirk. "If we never manage to


    conquer the virus, your suffering will only get worse. The numerousplications brought by the K Virus are enough to make your life living hell. By then, you might even me me, for keeping you alive would be a form of torment."


    She made it sound more terrifying than ever, attempting to elicit an expression of fear on Kallum''s face. However, to her surprise, Kallum simply looked at her and suddenly smiled.


    He reached out, pinching her face while narrowing his eyes, seemingly satisfied to see her like that. "Are you trying to scare me, Callie?"


    His voice was incredibly gentle,ced with a hint of affection.


    Calista''s features contorted from his pinch, and she smacked his hand away, saying gloomily, "You might even turn into a zombie and go berserk!"


    Kallum couldn''t help but smile when listening to her emphasize the horrifying consequences. "I promise I won''t be a zombie or go berserk as long as I can live."


    Calista scoffed and was about to


    mock him when he added, "As long


    as there''s a chance to cure the virus, I''ll hold on. I want to marry you. I initially thought I wouldn''t have the chance, but now that I have, will hang in there no matter what until the day I get to marry you


    Calista''s face fell when she heard that, and a faint sense of annoyance rose within her. Fixing her bright eyes on Kallum, she scoffed.

 Chapter 125 Work Together

    "Do you really think I would marry you? I have to admit you once made me waver, but not anymore!" she said with determination. Astonished, Kallum said in a smug and exaggerated tone, "So you did consider marrying me? I knew it. I''m irresistibly charming!" D*mn you, Kallum Fairchild!


    Calista shot him a re and conjured up the most venomous statement possible. "You might die any day now, so watch your mouth! It''s easy for you to say so, but have you ever considered the possibility that I might take you seriously and be heartbroken when you die?" Her words finally silenced Kallum. He recalled that his initial desire to distance himself from her was to prevent her from getting hurt. So, in their future interactions, he should exercise restraint to avoid the slight chance that she might fall for him and end up heartbroken. As silence ensued, a wave of regret washed over Calista. Kallum could''ve survived. He missed that opportunity because of me. He could''ve been one of the lucky few if he had received that injection. What was the point of me saying that? To make myself feel better? But there''s no way I''ll apologize! He''ll have to deal with that himself.


    Chuckling, Kallum asked, "Callie, are you feeling regretful?"


    Calista widened her eyes and snorted. "Stop ttering yourself."


    A sharp glint shed in Kallum''s eyes. "Don''t worry. Even though I''ve contracted the K Virus, I''m still Kallum. I''m not that fragile. You can tell me anything."All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    So what if I''m dying? I don''t want to part with her, yet I''ve never known fear. No matter what, I''m still me.


    Dazzled by his bravery, she turned to escape the situation but found herself grabbed by Kallum, who drew her into his embrace.


    "What are you doing?" she eximed, ring at him in irritation. Even on the brink of death, he''s so unbearable that I can''t even feel sorry for him!


    Kallum stifled augh. "Sick people are very vulnerable inside. So, from now on, I''ll stop saying sweet nothings, and you don''t have to fall for me. Just treat me as your patient. My only request is that you let me hug you every now and then. Let''s take romance off the table and keep our emotions in check, okay?"


    Calista knew she had frightened him. He''s genuinely afraid I''d fall for him and end up heartbroken if he dies. Such confidence!


    She wrinkled her nose and said, "All right. Let''s not talk about anything else before your fate is sealed. From now on, I''ll focus on saving you, and you''ll focus on cooperating. Let''s work together!"


    Kallum grinned, shing his white teeth at her. "Great! Let''s work together."


    He then extended his pinky finger at Calista, who stared back at him in confusion.


    "Let''s make a pinky promise!" dered Kallum, putting what he learned from the romance guide he had been reading previously into good use.


    Calista sneered. Do I look like I''m childish enough to do that?


    She intended to leave, but Kallum hugged her tightly and refused to let go. "You can''t leave without making a pinky promise!"


    "Kallum, are you out of your mind?!"


    "Yes," Kallum responded without hesitation, still holding out his pinky. His hands were attractive, and a mischievous grin yed on his striking face. "I''m the patient here. Can''t you y along, doctor?" Hmph! I don''t want to waste time arguing with him. I''m just ying along to shut him up, not because I have a soft spot for him!


    With that in mind, she impatiently


    extended her hand and hooked fingers with Kallum. Wanting to withdraw her hand after that


    half-hearted gesture, she was


    surprised when Kallum held


    tightly to her pinky. The smile on his face gradually faded, and


    persistence glimmered in his eyes.


    It was like he could make her stay with her forever as long as their fingers were intertwined.


    However, a thought crossed his mind and he let go, a smile once again gracing his face. "Then it''s settled! Doctor, I''m in your hands from now on."


    In the blink of an eye, seven days


    flew by, and as expected, Kallum was still alive and well. Calista had gained both Wanda and Ss''


    know how to thank her while


    the


    Taking advantage of the situation, Calista requested the Fairchilds to construct a biosafety level four research center in the manor. Afterward, Kallum could move in and be isted from everyone else, preventing any unforeseen incidents.


    Then, Calista strained to recall what those people said during the years when she acted as a human test subject, which allowed her to roughly figure out the research method. She even provided her blood to the experts who had been recruited by the Fairchild family.


    Calista admitted that her blood might prove useful due to the medicinal baths she had taken and her practice of martial arts from a young age, which had given her a strong resistance to toxins.


    With the powerful Fairchild family supporting her, those experts naturally dared not doubt her one bit. They thanked her for her blood donation and proceeded to conduct their research ording to her guidance.


    Calista felt a lot more confident with their help.


    Given that it was Kallum who had fallen ill, the Fairchild family had essentially recruited the world''s leading virus experts to join forces in researching andbating the disease.


    They were far superior to those who had used Calista as a test subject in her previous life. In this life, she not only had the right research direction from the start, but also had many people assisting her. She was confident they would conquer the virus that had posed the greatest challenge to the world.


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 Chapter 126 Drama In School

    Calista frowned. But that''s not necessarily the case. In my previous life, those people were able to make rapid progress because of me. I was the perfect human test subject for their experiments. Not only was my blood unique, but my constitution was also special, which naturally led to swift advancements. In this life, all I did was provide blood samples. I have no idea if these experts can do it just as fast, let alone whether Kallum can hold on for that long. The autumn wind swept through, nketing the ground with golden leaves.


    Calista was holding a pen, tapping it against her chin as she pondered over a problem. Seeing herck of focus, the professor expressed his displeasure by clearing his throat and saying, "Calista, you''ve already missed so many sses, and now that you''re in ss, you''re not paying attention! Do you even want to join thebined master''s and doctoral program?"


    Calista was taken aback when her name was called and hurriedly apologized, promising to focus from now on.


    However, deep down, she felt somewhat torn, which was rare.


    In her past life, she had dedicated herself entirely to the study of medicine. She wasn''t concerned about not being able to keep up, but she was confused as to why she had to study physics, advanced mathematics, doctor-patientmunication skills, and more. Those were inapplicable to her, and despite her intelligence, she saw no need to study them.


    Looks like I''ve oversimplified things. Thebined master''s and doctoral program is not as easy as I thought.


    However, Calista had always maintained a stoic facade in her current life, so no one could tell when she was struggling to understand. She maintained her top-student demeanor and was always alone, very much an individualist.


    "Hey, did you guys notice Calista seems to have changed? She used to be introverted but she''d still respond when we asked her questions, but now, I don''t even dare to approach her."


    Whispers sounded behind Calista, but she remained aloof, pretending she didn''t hear them.


    "But she''s be much more beautiful. I thought she was a new student when she came yesterday and was so surprised when I realized it was her! Many guys came to ask about her yesterday. I heard that some guy will be waiting for her under the academic building today... and it''s not just anyone! It''s the most handsome guy from the Faculty of Arts. Apparently, he fell in love with her at first sight."


    Grabbing her pen, Calista contemted taking a different door out of the academic building when she left.


    ss ended amidst this incessant chatter. The professor hadn''t left yet when a voice echoed from the doorway. "Who is Calista? Come out!"


    Calista''s gaze hardened as she looked over to see a girl whom she found somewhat familiar. Upon closer inspection, she realized it was Janice, one of Mirabelle''s friends. Mirabelle was Janice''s senior in the Faculty of Dance.


    When Calista didn''t respond, Janice walked straight over to her. The other students immediately dispersed, clearing a path for her. Janice red at Calista and stormed over to p her.


    Calista deftly dodged, causing Janice''s hand to end up hitting the table. The pain had her grimacing and gritting her teeth. "How dare you dodge?"


    What nonsense is she talking about? Am I supposed to just stay put and let her p me?


    Calista stood aside, sizing up the woman who, in her previous life, had been exploited to death by Mirabelle, and sneered. "Where''d youe from, the mental asylum?"


    The onlookers gasped, taken aback.


    They had always thought of Calista


    as an aloof and reticent person,


    attributing it to her shyness. However, the moment she spoke; they realized they were wrong. The Calista they knew from the past would never say such words.


    Janice was livid. This b*tch has no shame at all!


    "How audacious of you to insult me when you seduced Mirabelle''s boyfriend! How shameless can you be?" she roared.


    As soon as Mirabelle''s name was mentioned, the onlookers knew Janice was here looking for trouble.


    After all, Mirabelle was too renowned, not because she was pretty or talented, but because she was the only woman who received special treatment from Kallum.


    Calista snatched Mirabelle''s boyfriend? How is that even possible?


    Seeing the peculiar nces directed at Janice, Calista responded with a cold, dismissive smile. "Hey, exin. Who did I seduce? Where''s Mirabelle? Ask her to fight her own battles!"


    As expected, Mirabelle showed up.


    She rushed over in a panic, still in a


    white dress: "Janice, I told you, you got the wrong idea! There are so many people here! How is Callie going to continue studying here if this gets out?"


    She seemed intent on shielding Calista, but her friends who came with her had no intention of letting things go.


    "So this is Calista. No wonder she''s a mistress. She has the face of a temptress!"


    "Exactly!" Another girl chimed in, filled with envy as she said bitterly, "She used to be so ugly and unremarkable. Suddenly, she''s beautiful. I wonder where she had her cosmetic surgery. She got all dotted up just to be someone''s mistress. Unbelievable!"


    Calistaughed. "So you do realize I''m way more attractive than you all!"


    That one sentence rendered them all speechless. How could she be so shameless? We''re humiliating her!


    One of the onlookers burst outughing, agreeing with Calista. She''s right, though. She''s far more attractive than Mirabelle, the campus belle.


    Mirabelle''s friends red at the onlooker whoughed, and she recoiled in fear, not daring to make another sound.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.

 Chapter 127 Prove That He Likes You

    Judging from how aggressive they were, Calista surmised that they wouldn''t let things slide easily. Looks like a drama''s about to ensue.


    Mirabelle red at Calista, her eyes brimming with hatred. Before Calista woke up, Kal only wanted mypany. But after Calista appeared, Kal no longer wanted me around and even forbade me from seeing him. Calista''s clearly behind all this! If I had the chance, I''d


    tear Calista apart!


    She swallowed all her resentment, speaking in a pitiful tone. "Please don''t be mad, Callie. I''ll take them and leave now. I don''t me you for that matter!"


    She wanted to tarnish Calista''s reputation but unfortunately, her friends wouldn''t y along.


    "Why should we leave? You''re just way too kind, Mirabelle! That''s why these despicable people took advantage of you! Everyone in Horington knows Mr. Kallum is fond of you, yet someone is just delusional enough to think she stands a chance, taking pleasure in being a homewrecker." The onlookers gasped. As expected, it''s Mr. Kallum!


    The students here were all from wealthy families, so they were naturally familiar with Kallum. Thanks to Mirabelle''s efforts in publicizing the matter, they also knew that Kallum had feelings for her.


    They just hadn''t expected the influential and wealthy Fairchild family to have connections with Calista. To them, Calista was like one of those special admissions students who came from a poor family and had to strive to make a living. They couldn''t believe she became involved with Kallum and even managed to steal him from Mirabelle.


    Calista nced at her watch in annoyance and sniped mercilessly, "Are you guys done? Since when did Kallum admit that you''re his girlfriend? You''re throwing yourself at him when he hasn''t even acknowledged you as his girlfriend yet. Is this how your family raised you? Besides, Kallum is already engaged. Are you his fianc¨¦e? If you were, you wouldn''t be causing a scene here."


    Mirabelle couldn''te up with a retort to Calista''s words and was ashamed. Clenching her teeth, she said with feigned agitation, "Callie, why do you have to be so mean? Kal doesn''t have a fianc¨¦e! Does anyone have the Fairchild family''s heirloom thumb ring? If no one has the ring, he''s not engaged!"


    She was certain that Calista had lost the thumb ring, hence unable to prove their engagement.


    While many of the students here were affluent, their wealth had its limits. Only a few managed to establish connections with the Fairchild family and knew that Calista was Kallum''s fianc¨¦e. Even the Stafford family rarely publicized this matter, as Kallum had previously shown disdain for Calista. Benedict was under the impression that the engagement might fall through. Therefore, no matter how hard Calista tried to exin, no one would believe she was Kallum''s fianc¨¦e.


    Calista had no intention of exining that either. She looked at Mirabelle with a yful smile and asked with a sneer, "So you''re trying to say Kallum is yours since he isn''t engaged? Everyone around you keeps using me ofing between you and Kallum. Does that mean Kallum is your boyfriend?"


    She was curious to see if Mirabelle had the audacity to admit it.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Mirabelle was well aware she couldn''t speak lightly about that, so she gritted her teeth and said in a low voice, "Kal almost proposed to mest time, but you barged in and interrupted us! Do you dare deny?"


    Calista was surprised Mirabelle had the nerve to say that. "Almost, you say? So, that means nothing''s decided yet?"


    She appeared calm and confident, making Mirabelle let her guard down and ignore how people looked at her.


    Mirabelle''s eyes lit up as she concealed her delight. "So you admit you interrupted us?"


    Calista shed a captivating yet wicked smile that dazzled everyone around.


    Calista arched an eyebrow. "So you''re implying... Kallum has feelings for you, too? Do you have any proof? Has he ever kissed you?"


    If he did, I''d go back and have him rinse his mouth.


    Mirabelle found herself hesitant to answer Calista''s question. Kallum might treat her differently, but she knew for a fact that he didn''t have feelings for her. Thus, everything she said before this was specious. But it''s different this time. What if Calista recorded what I said?


    Mirabelle remained silent, but


    Calista refused to let her off the hook. She pressed on aggressively "You don''t even dare to say whether Mr. Kallum likes you or not, and yet you have the nerve to use me of intruding?"


    Mirabelle couldn''t muster a response to that, so she simply remained silent with a timid expression. Immediately, the girls around her rallied around her.


    Janice shielded Mirabelle, defending


    her, "How could you be so shameless? Mirabelle is a


    distinguisheddy! She''s nothing like a callous, uncultured person like you! She has always been modest and reserved, and all you do is take advantage of that! You better watch out. Mr. Kallum''sing for you!"


    He''sing for me?


    Calista was so annoyed that he chuckled. "If you don''t even dare answer my question, stop spreading rumors about how nice Kallum is to you. If you can prove that he likes you today, I''ll apologize to you! Otherwise, get lost and stop tarnishing my reputation!"


    She spoke without mincing words, which left Mirabelle''s face flushed with anger.


    I''ve never seen anyone as mean as she is!


    Reluctant to admit defeat, she said pitifully, "When Kal was injured a few days ago, he refused to see anyone and only wanted me to look after him..."


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 Chapter 128 Mirabelle Lied

    Calista arched an eyebrow and nced at her. "When I pped you right in front of him, he didn''t even say anything." Mirabelle almost passed out from anger upon hearing that.


    That was her sore spot. Kal is clearly on my side, so why did he indulge Calistast time? He must''ve been too stunned and infuriated by Calista to react. That must be it!


    In a fit of rage, Mirabelle began speaking thoughtlessly, "All these years, Mr. Kallum has always been nice to me. He''d give me everything I asked! We''re childhood sweethearts! But what about you? Has he ever shown you any kindness since you were a child?" Calista felt disgruntled to hear that, but her smile only grew brighter. "But when we were kids, he didn''t dare to mistreat me either. It''s not my fault that Mrs. Fairchild favors me over you."Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    ncing at her own fingertips, she added, "Oh, I almost forgot. Last time, when I mentioned I wasn''t a good fit for the Fairchild family and suggested that Mrs. Fairchild find herself another daughter-inw, even rmending you, do you know what she said to me?" Mirabelle, intending to retort, fell silent when Calista brought that up. Curious to know what Wanda thought of her, she held her breath and waited for Calista to finish her sentence.


    I''m the epitome of elegance in Horington. Mrs. Fairchild should be satisfied with me, right?


    Calista let out an exaggerated sigh. "It''s such a shame that she said you were too pretentious. She even told me she''d never consider giving you a chance even if I refused to get engaged to Mr. Kallum. Oh, she also told me Linda was a suitable choice..." Mirabelle finally lost it and shrieked, "You''re talking nonsense! She''d never say something like that! She has a good impression of me!"


    Calista''s eyes narrowed, and her expression turned serious as she questioned pointedly, "So, you''re admitting that I''m Kallum''s fianc¨¦e, that Mrs. Fairchild likes me, and that Kallum and I are childhood sweethearts?"


    Bystanders could see things more objectively, and all the onlookers heard everything loud and clear. Mirabelle said that Kallum had never liked Calista since they were young, but she didn''t refute it when Calista imed to be Kallum''s fianc¨¦e. She only refuted the part of Wanda having a bad impression of her.


    That meant Calista was Kallum''s girlfriend, and Mirabelle was the mistress.


    Mirabelle''s face turned pale. She had been overwhelmed by the anxiety of not being able to see Kallum recently, and it didn''t help that Calista was so harsh, causing her to lose herposure and give Calista the opportunity to strike back. Since when did Calista be so good at this?


    Calista revealed a mocking smile. "Do you know why I pped you and Kallum didn''t stop me? That''s because I have the right to! Shameless Mirabelle!"


    When Mirabelle was left speechless, another girl behind her fumed, "You! You''re just twisting facts! Everyone knows that Mr. Kallum despises you. If you hadn''t intruded, Mr. Kallum and Mirabelle would''ve already been engaged!" "Enough!" Mirabelle interrupted her friend.


    Calistaughed triumphantly. "So,


    even your friends know that you haven''t seeded yet! It''s ridiculous that you all had the nerve toe here and use me of being a mistress. He has always been mine. Why do I need to steal something that''s rightfully mine?"


    After she finished speaking, the room fell into a deafening silence. Aside from the troublemakers who felt embarrassed, everyone else felt inexplicably satisfied.


    It''s always exhrating to see the troublemakers try to pick a fight but end up humiliating themselves! Seems like Calista''s looks isn''t the only thing that has changed. Her mean words almost destroyed Mirabelle and her friends!


    Mirabelle, defeated, was about to


    leave with her gang when Janice


    spoke up. "What''s going on? Mirabelle, didn''t you say that Mr., Kallum had feelings for you, and it was Calista who interfered? Also, I thought Calista was just a pauper. How could she be engaged to Mr. Kallum?"


    Janice''s words dealt Mirabelle another severe blow.


    Calista spoke slowly. "Though my family isn''t wealthy, we''re far from poor. The Royal Pharmacy is ours."


    Mirabelle swallowed her anger upon sensing the surrounding crowd''s curious gazes, shot Janice a fierce re, and walked away.


    "What''s going on, Mirabelle? How


    could you be a mistress? Even if Mr. Kallum doesn''t like Calista, you can''t just do this!¡± Before Janice could finish her sentence, Mirabelle had already disappeared from sight. Her pace quickened with each step, as if she wished to vanishpletely.


    Janice wasn''t a fool, so she realized she had been deceived. She never expected the gentle and graceful Mirabelle to lie to her.


    Calista couldn''t be bothered to deal with Janice. Distancing herself from Mirabelle and her gang might just be the best thing that''ll ever happen to her.


    ncing at the time, Calista realized it was gettingte and she should head back, not to the Stafford residence but to the Fairchild Manor.


    She told Benedict that Kallum was injured and since she had medical knowledge, she wanted to take care of him personally in order to build a stronger bond with him. Without hesitation, Benedict agreed.


    The goddaughter matter could wait, for Kallum''s condition had just stabilized. It wasn''t the right time for the Fairchild family to hold any big events.


    Sitting in the car, Calista unbuttoned her cor, feeling slightly annoyed. Should I be entitled to some form ofpensation since Kallum has brought me so much trouble?


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 Chapter 129 A Harmonious Scene

    Upon entering the gates of the Fairchild Manor, Calista headed straight to an annex, which served as Kallum''s recuperation spot, where all unauthorized personnel were strictly prohibited from approaching.


    Kallum was engrossed in reviewing documents. Since his health was stable and there was no immediate threat to his life, he took over most of thepany''s work, hoping to alleviate some of his father''s stress instead of idling around every day. Seeing Calista enter, he put down the documents and instantly pieced things together upon noticing her grim expression. Something must''ve happened at school. Plus, since she''s showing me her displeasure, it might have something to do with me. "What''s wrong?" he asked.


    Calista sat down on the couch by the bed, ignoring him.


    "Oh no, who upset my baby?" he cooed.


    Calista shot him a re. "Can you not be so cheesy?"


    She was so grossed out that she thought the old Kallum was better. Although he was arrogant, he was quiet. Even though he hated her, he was at least not this clingy.


    "I didn''t say anything wrong." Kallum leaned forward, a smile on his face as he reached out to ruffle her hair. "You''re my sister, doesn''t that make you my little baby?"


    Even though he didn''t want to acknowledge her as his sister, this title was the most suitable for their current situation. It served as a constant reminder for them to keep their feelings in check while providing a legitimate rtionship status that allowed them to stay close to each other.C0ntent ? 2024 (N/?)velDrama.Org.


    Before he was certain he would be able to survive, he would always restrain himself and strive to be a responsible older brother.


    Calista looked at him with disgust, her expression indifferent. "If anyone upset me, it''s you."


    Kallum lifted his hands in surrender. "I didn''t do anything the whole day!" I do have some work, but that''s not what upset her, right?


    Calista snorted. "Mirabelle came using me of being a mistress today, demanding that I stay away from you!"


    Kallum''s face fell. "I can''t believe she would say something like that..."


    "She wasn''t like this before, but she seems agitated today. Perhaps someone or something pushed her to do so. It''s been a long time since youst saw her, right?" Calista wore an ambiguous half-smile.


    Kallum felt a chill run down his spine when her gaze bore into him. "I''ll never see her again in the future. If you find her annoying, I''ll¡ª"


    Calista interrupted him, "I''ll deal with her myself! I stand by what I''ve said. I''ll handle my enemies one by one! Honestly, I''m enjoying this feeling of suppressing them. They can''t stand me, but they can''t get rid of me either. It''s quite satisfying!"


    In truth, Kallum had many questions.


    Calista had repeatedly mentioned seeking revenge and seemed to possess knowledge far beyond her station. Moreover, she had inexplicably acquired medical skills and a slew of enemies. No matter


    how he looked at it, everything about


    her was suspicious.


    However, Kallum didn''t want to dwell on that.


    He gently brushed Calista''s hair aside and murmured, "I''m just another card in your hand, right? You can use me to suppress those you want to, just like you were doing it yourself. But I wouldn''t want your hands to be sullied." I''m even more afraid that I won''t be around in the future to stand up for her when she needs me.


    Calista had a feeling that after Kallum fell ill, he became increasingly cheesy.


    "You think I''d forgive you because of that? If it weren''t for you, my life would have been so much more peaceful! I wouldn''t have all this mess to deal with!" she snapped.


    "Yes, yes. It''s all my fault," said Kallum, doting on his newfound sister unconditionally. He pulled a book out of her bag and said, "I could tutor you as my punishment for all the trouble I bring into your life. Advanced mathematics is my forte!" Calista''s face flushed as she snatched the book away, ring daggers at him. "I don''t need your help! I can do it myself!"


    Kallum looked at her lovingly. "Fine. Sorry for being nosy."


    Calista huffed, pulling a long face as she flipped open the book and started studying.


    A smirk tugged at the corner of Kallum''s lips. For some reason, he found himself getting better at discerning various emotions from Calista''s usually stoic face. She''s so adorable!


    Calista would''ve rolled her eyes if she knew he found her adorable.


    Silence ensued as Kallum focused on his documents and Calista continued her studies. As time passed, a sense of harmony and warmth gradually filled the room, keeping the looming Grim Reaper away.


    When Quintus came in to deliver the medicine and witnessed this scene, he didn''t interrupt but felt even more grateful toward Calista. Before Ms. Calista arrived, Mr. Kallum appeared strong but was always shrouded in a cloud of despair, as if he were on the brink of giving up. However, once Ms. Calista showed up, Mr. Kallum instantly perked up. Shaun said that a patient''s mood is crucial during treatment. As long as Ms. Calista stays, I believe Mr. Kallum will remain in high spirits.


    While taking his medicine, Kallum nced at Calista and noticed her wracking her brain over a math problem.


    Limits, convergence of infinite integrals, indefinite integrals, coordinates...


    Calista, who had always maintained


    a calm demeanor, felt a surge of frustration when she saw the test questions. She wanted nothing more than to tear the books to shreds. But she couldn''t; she was a top student on track to join thebined master''s and doctoral program. In her previous life, she excelled in every subject, and she intended to keep it that way in this life as well.


    As she flipped through the material and attempted to solve the problems, she realized she had almost forgotten everything she had learned before. After struggling for ten minutes, she felt an overwhelming urge to throw her pen in frustration.

 Chapter 130 I Will Do It

    Right then, Kallum took the pen from her.


    "You don''t know how? Let me teach you then!"


    Kallumughed arrogantly as if there was nothing in the world that could ever stump him.


    Calista remained defiant. "All right then. Teach me."


    She handed him the textbook, her disbelief evident. She was sure that Kallum hadn''t practiced such things for years. If her memory, which was excellent, had failed her, then there was no way he could remember. To her surprise, he really did remember.


    Pointing at the problem, Kallum slowly said, "You''ve calcted this coordinate''s value incorrectly. I recall that this..."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He exined each point withposure, clearly breaking down the problem at hand, and wrote out every key learning point epassed by the problem. His handwriting was pleasing to the eye, whether it was letters or numbers, each stroke exuded a bold elegance. It was just like his personality-conspicuous yet impossible to dislike.


    At first, Calista couldn''t deny her confusion, but gradually, she found herself getting lost in the discourse. During that day''s lecture, it felt as if she was listening to gibberish. However, Kallum patiently guided her, breaking down theplex concepts, and allowing her to gradually grasp the essence of the lesson.


    There was no denying it, Kallum was indeed quite clever.


    In truth, he was far more than just intelligent.


    In her early years under her stepmother''s care, Calista always kept a low profile. Consistently being at the top of her ss wasn''t something she would ordinarily strive for. However, ever since the time Mrs. Fairchild mentioned that Kallum always ranked first, the idea took root in her mind. It seemed as if, by doing so, she could be a little closer to him.


    After all those years, ranking first seemed to have be an obsession of hers.


    "Are you zoning out?" Kallum frowned, his violet eyes filled with displeasure as they bored into Calista''s. That was the first time he had ever been so patient in exining something to someone.


    Regaining herposure, Calista gave him an inscrutable nce, firmly stating, "No."


    "How do you solve this problem then?"


    His question was only greeted with silence.


    "I just exined three solutions to this problem. Surely you didn''t miss all of them?" Kallum raised an eyebrow in disbelief.


    With a snap, Calista closed the book, her face stern as she dered, "I''ve got it already!"


    "Is that so?" A hint of amusement danced in Kallum''s eyes. "How about I give you a simr question to test what you''ve learned?"


    Calista looked at Kallum''s somewhat smug expression, which triggered a sudden annoyance.


    She gave him a quick once-over, her tone strictly professional as she questioned, "Have you finished reading the documents? Have youpleted the required exercises? How far along are we with today''s treatment?" Kallum could not be fooled. He knew she was trying to change the subject. "We''re talking about your studies now-"


    "You haven''t even finished your tasks. What gives you the right to boss me around?"


    Calista raised her delicate chin, giving him a defiant look. It''s just one problem after all. I can always go through the book of solutions to learn it.


    Kallum suddenlyughed. For some reason, he found it incredibly endearing to see embarrassment under Calista''s cold facade.


    Seeing Kallumugh, Calista felt even worse. Why has Kallum''s character improved after getting sick? No matter what tantrums I throw or what harsh words I say, his reactions are just so odd. Looks like my only option is to y my trump card. She nced at her wristwatch.


    "Today is the third day. It''s time for me to give you an acupuncture. Take off your clothes."


    Calista issued an order. Sure enough, Kallum hesitated for a moment before disying a peculiar expression.


    When Kallum was in love, he was indeed passionate. However, his passion was not exhibited through physical exposure. When Calista requested him to fully undress lie on stomach for the


    3? 1


    acupuncture treatment, he found the situation awkward. After all, he was deeply in love with that woman, and to be open and transparent with each other was truly exciting.


    Thus, in fear of embarrassing himself, it was inevitable that Kallum felt somewhat awkward.


    However, his pride prevented him from showing any signs of it, though there were still subtle indications. For instance, during the acupuncture session, he hardly spoke a word, and his entire body was tense as if he was facing a formidable adversary.


    Calista subtly curled her lips, "Well, aren''t you going to undress? Or do you need me to do it for you? It''s not like I haven''t seen it all before. There''s nothing new."


    Her provocative words made Kallum''s ears turn red. He narrowed his eyes and huffed, saying, "So, that means you''re quite pleased with my physique. Otherwise, you wouldn''t remember it so vividly."


    That night from months ago remained fresh in their memories. They couldn''t recall their feelings at that time, but every time they thought about it, a subtle wave of emotions would surprisingly spread. Calista didn''t bother wasting words with him. She stood by the bed, arms crossed over her chest, watching him. "Do you really want me to get involved?" "No! I''ll do it myself!"


    Kallum nced at her, unable to


    utter the words to ask her to look away. Yet, under her gaze, his body involuntarily tensed up. Her eyes were cold, but when theynded on him, they could scorch his entire body. It was no exaggeration to say that if she looked at him a few more


    times, he would get aroused.


    Luckily, his lower body was covered by the nket and he would be getting the treatment with his back facing upward.


    His slender fingers worked on the buttons of his shirt. At which button will Calista finally turn her head?


    Meanwhile, Calista kept her arms crossed over her chest while watching him. There was a look in her eyes that perhaps even she didn''t fully understand.


    The autumn breeze, carrying a hint of peony fragrance, swept in. Warm sunlight bathed over Kallum as if cloaking him in a halo. His slender fingers skillfully undid each button. His movements were unhurried, exuding natural elegance.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 131 I Need To Take A Nap

    One by one, the buttons were undone.


    His fairplexion and delicate corbones were on full disy, a man radiating an air of nobility. As he undressed, his face held a look of restrained desire. The sight before him was surely enough to tantalize many.


    Finally, Kallum admitted defeat. He stared at Calista with a steady gaze and said, "A little sister wouldn''t watch her older brother undress."


    Suddenly, Calista scoffed, retaliating without hesitation, "A brother shouldn''t always be thinking about kissing his sister."


    With that, she turned around and left without waiting for Kallum''s response.


    Kallum didn''t have much time to think. He swiftly stripped off his clothes, leaving only a pair of rtively long shorts on, before turning over and lying down.


    Calista had also gathered his emotions, setting aside eighty-eight silver needles for the acupuncture treatment.


    Utilizing this acupuncture technique depleted Calista of her internal energy every session, even inflicting damage to her vitality. Yet, after each treatment, Kallum, who had been tormented by the K virus, would feel aforting warmth spread throughout his body, as if he was relieved. During this particr acupuncture session, neither of them spoke. Calista chose to remain silent, while Kallum was lost in thought, trying to decipher what Calista truly felt for him.


    If one were to talk about affection, her demeanor had grown considerably colder than before. Yet, to say she hadpletely let go didn''t quite align with her actions.


    Kallum was uncertain whether he should hope for her to let go or not. The way they were interacting currently felt as if he had stolen those moments.


    Their interactions fluctuated. Sometimes they were close and sometimes distant. Yet, it was impossible to delve deeper into their rtionship. After all, no one would have the time to ponder upon such matters when life and death hung in the bnce. The mostplex thing in the world was emotions, especially for women like Calista, who could not see the truth of the situation clearly.


    After the acupuncture session, Kallum felt a sense of relief washing over his body. The pain that had been guing him seemed to dissipate under a wave of warmth. Even if it was just a temporary relief, it was enough to make him want to sigh infort. He turned his head, watching as Calista meticulously collected the needles. The sight of her slender waist swaying in front of his eyes stirred in him an urge to pin her down and yfully tease her.


    He closed his eyes, suppressing his desire once again.


    At that moment, Calista yfully flicked his waistline. "Not bad. You have a great figure."


    As soon as she spoke, all of Kallum''s chaotic thoughts flew away, leaving him with nothing but a sense of suffocation and embarrassment.


    He had an impressive set of abs and a perfect chest line up front. He could not help but wonder if Calista only just realized his good physique.


    While he was thinking of that, Calista had already taken the needle to sterilize it. What she held in her hand was essentially a "weapon". Anything contaminated with the K Virus had to be incinerated and deeply buried, or thoroughly disinfected.


    Fortunately, the K Virus had a poor


    survival rate Outside the human


    body. Thanks to the team''s treatment, the virus activity in Kallum''s body was reduced to its lowest level. Otherwise, they would have retreated to the depths of the wilderness long ago instead of treating anyone there.


    After the disinfection, the sun had already begun to set.


    Calista returned to Kallum''s room to rest. During this period, she had been living with Kallum, the purpose being to keep a close watch on his condition. If Kallum were to suddenly sumb to a viral outbreak, all their efforts would have been in vain.


    Though the evenings seemed


    rxed, once Calista left for school,


    Kallum found himself under the


    watchful eyes of seven or eight people. Not to mention the intense series of treatments he had to undergo. It was only when Calista returned that Kallum could breathe a sigh of relief. Unbeknownst to them, Calista had somehow be the leader of the small group of


    renowned experts.


    At that moment, Calista was utterly exhausted. She copsed onto the small bed, lying face down, and spoke in a muffled voice.


    "I need to take a nap. Wake me up in half an hour," she said, as she hadn''t yet finished her studies for the day.


    Kallum naturally nced at the test questions on the small table. Before he could even speak, the other person had already fallen silent.


    Gradually, the sound of Calista''s even breathing filled the quiet room.


    After spending some time reviewing documents and attending a video conference, Kallum noticed that Calista was still asleep.


    Half an hour had already passed, but Kallum couldn''t bear to disturb her. She looked exhausted, herplexion somewhat pale. Clearly, the strenuous acupuncture technique she had used took a significant toll on her body.


    If it hadn''t been for him, she wouldn''t


    have resorted to such dangerous acupuncture techniques, putting


    herself at risk. Calista, his lover, was truly good to him, so much so that his will to live grew stronger. He couldn''t bear to imagine who would be there to protect such a wonderful person as her if one day he were to die. The mere thought made him seethe with jealousy, almost to the


    point of murder.


    At that moment, dinner was served. Kallum suppressed the hostility that had been creasing his brow, his gaze once again bing clear.


    Although he wanted to let Calista sleep longer, he knew it wasn''t good for her to skip meals. So, after dismissing everyone, he brought the meal to her bedside. Sitting next to her, he prepared to wake her up.


    Themp by the bed would light up automatically when night came. Under the warm glow, her face lost its sharpness in the day, appearing surprisingly gentle.


    It gave Kallum the urge to lick her mouth, savoring her sweetness when she was not uttering provocative words.


    The urge he had forcefully suppressed began to bubble up in the stillness of the night. He didn''t even dare to gaze at Calista''s face for too long, for fear it would spark wild thoughts within him.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    He gently pinched Calista''s nose tip, hoping to awaken her. Unexpectedly, Calista began to breathe through her slightly opened mouth.

 Chapter 132 They Are Noncontagious

    Kallum found the situation both amusing and heart-wrenching. Just how exhausted must she be to be so deeply asleep?


    "Little one, you''ll be hungry if you don''t wake up soon." His deep voice filled the serene space with tenderness. Kallum let go of her nose and lovingly touched her hair. If I survive, this girl will be my wife!


    Amidst his disturbance, Calista couldn''t sleep any longer and red at Kallum, only to realize it was already dark outside. She jolted upright, her expression somewhat dazed.


    "Why... didn''t you wake me?" Calista''s voice was a bit hoarse. She rubbed her eyes, still feeling extremely sleepy. Her head nodded as if she was about to fall back asleep at any moment.


    "I thought I let you sleep a bit longer, seeing how exhausted you were. Let''s eat. The food is already cold."


    Calista discreetly pouted. "I don''t want to eat."


    She had overestimated herself and wanted to continue sleeping. Well, studying can wait until tomorrow.


    "How can you not eat?" Kallum raised an eyebrow, feeding her. "Open up, here''s your favorite fish sticks."


    Initially, Calista was somewhat resistant, but Kallum wouldn''t let her get away. No matter how she dodged, the fish stick seemed to follow her like a shadow. Coupled with the enticing aroma, she couldn''t escape the temptation. In a daze, she opened her mouth and ate. After swallowing, she subconsciously said, "Don''t eat this. It''s not good for you."


    Kallum gave a slight nod. "I won''t. These are for you."


    Then, he took a piece of sweet potato from his te. "Open up. I know you dislike sweet potato, but you can''t be picky."


    Calista ate with her eyes half-closed. After finishing thest bite, she furrowed her brows. "You should eat more of this."


    Kallum couldn''t help butugh, his eyes sparkling brightly, his smile radiant. Unfortunately, Calista didn''t see it.


    "Care for some pasta?" Kallum''s voice could best be described as soothingly gentle.


    Upon hearing his offer, Calista opened her mouth, waiting to be fed. In reality, she was still half asleep.


    Looking at her glossy lips, Kallum didn''t find them dirty. Instead, he hoped she would keep being sweet and adorable and allow him to care for her when she woke up.


    The person feeding was delighted and the person eating was also satisfied throughout the meal. After Calista finished eating and resumed her slumber, Kallum began to eat. He had never imagined a day woulde when he would willingly eat the leftovers of another, using the fork she used, and finding the experience both sweet and fulfilling.


    The intense yearning to possess her repeatedly surged within him, only to be forcefully suppressed each time.


    He methodically ate his meal, yet his gaze was fixed on Calista. He had no desire to hurt her, but his yearning to im her grew stronger with each passing day.


    He was terrified that he would lose control one day and end up hurting her.


    He couldn''t be so selfish.


    As the days went by, Mirabelle had been lying low ever since she caused a stir. After Calista had taught Quincy and Yelena a memorable lesson, they had been behaving themselves. Even the Langley family wasn''t exempted.


    The same went for the Wolford


    family. Sterling was severely


    swindled on and purchase deal, which led to a capital flow issue, leaving him swamped. When Kallum found out Calista was kidnapped in Lost¨¤ria and the Wolford family was behind it, he directed all his anger toward them.


    Several significant coborations had fallen through, exacerbating the capital flow issue. However, that was only the beginning.


    After several confrontations, it wasmon knowledge throughout Horington that the Wolfords and the Fairchilds were sworn enemies.


    Under those circumstances, the Fairchild family held a banquet to announce Calista as their goddaughter.


    The news came like a bolt out of the blue.


    Benedict was uncertain whether to feel joy or worry upon hearing the news.


    Yelena''s mind began to race. The socialites who hesitated to act due to Kallum''s engagement could finally show off their prowess. Even Mirabelle assumed Kallum didn''t like Calista and wanted to call off the


    engagement, while Wanda adopting Calista as her goddaughter was only a form ofpensation.


    Whether the Fairchild family regarded the goddaughter with great significance or not, would depend on the grandeur of the banquet.


    At that moment, Calista was examining Kallum. It was certain that Kallum had to make an appearance that night. No matter how many inhibitors he took, the risk still remained. Any of his bodily fluid was potentially lethal.


    Fortunately, the research team had


    some good news to share. Shaun


    hurried over and divulged, "Ms. Stafford, the research interest you suggested was indeed correct. Professor Lawson mentioned that your blood was rather unique and hoped you could provide samples regrly, for it would greatly help us." Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Once the check-up was done, Calista began to button up Kallum''s clothes. "No issue there, but surely you''ve made some progress, right? After all, it''s been so long."


    She had a subtle hint of arrogance in her tone. Well, as the saying went, "One got influenced by thepany one kept."


    She was on the verge of bing a part of the Fairchild family, so it wasn''t out of ce.


    Shaun felt a pang of guilt under her scrutiny. "We''ve modified the inhibitor... so now it can make Mr. Kallum''s saliva and sweat noncontagious."


    So, only blood and... that fluid can''t be suppressed? Calista raised an eyebrow.


    "All right, administer it then," Calistamanded, stepping back a short distance away.

 Chapter 133 Thumb Ring

    Only then did Kallum lift his gaze toward her.


    During the period of constantpanionship, Kallum had grown ustomed to unconsciously seeking her out. He didn''t want anyone else to interfere with anything that concerned her.


    Yet, Calista didn''t catch his gaze and took advantage of the time to study. Exams were just a couple of days away. Whether she could advance and join thebined master''s and doctoral program hinged on that one instance.


    Kallum found himself surrounded by a group of people, obstructing his view of Calista. He cast a displeased nce at them, leaving everyone with an inexplicable sense of having done something wrong.


    After the injection, everyone assisted Kallum in changing his clothes and ushered Calista behind another partition to get dressed, as she was the star of the day.


    "How are things going with the Wolford family?" Kallum suddenly asked in front of the mirror.


    At that point, Quintus had already be much moreposed.


    "The Wolford family has been struggling with their capital flow for quite some time. What was initially a minor issue had escted into a major problem after several failed coborations. They had to shut down several subsidiaries and were even considering a marriage alliance between Sterling and someone from Clouden Bank of Summerbank. Although they disparaged Sterling''s humble background, the bank CEO''s daughter was smitten with him at first sight."


    With a cold chuckle, Kallum looked into the mirror. His mboyant good looks were still the same, yet he had a ruthless glint in his eyes.


    "Youngdies are always fickle-minded and infatuated with handsome men. Tell Donati, I''ve chosen a decent girlfriend for him."


    Quintus nodded, yet with a hint of confusion, he asked, "Mr. Kallum, since we''ve already found evidence of the Wolford family''s arms trafficking, their deal with the rebel troops from Lostaria that is equivalent to exploiting the nation''s crisis for their personal gain. Why don''t we just capture them all in one fell swoop?"


    Kallum fell silent, a flicker of resignation and indulgence crossed his eyes. Why? Because my wife forbade it!


    "There might still be a chance for them to make aeback if we don''t eliminate them thoroughly, but since they want Callie dead, I must ensure their downfall so that they can''t ever get back up!"


    Of course, the main issue is Callie didn''t want me to interfere in her affairs. Therefore, I have no choice but to whittle down the enemies'' power and influence, and then provide the right opportunity for Callie to deliver the fatal blow. That''s right. I''m just that indulgent toward my wife. Of course, if I were to die suddenly, these pieces of evidence would still be sent to the authorities. The Wolford family won''t be able to escape justice. However, Callie might me me in such a scenario and resent me for intentionally making her owe me a favor she can never repay. Perhaps, she''ll even hold a grudge against me for the rest of her life.


    Kallum grinned contently at the thought. His whole being radiated joy that no one could''ve guessed he was gued by illness and possibly on the brink of death.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    After the banquet hadmenced, many who scrutinized Calista eventually wanted to be acquainted with her.


    As the asion attracted the best of the best from various industries, many individuals, who rarely appeared at social events, had shown up. All of them were there for one reason only-Calista.


    "Isn''t that the King of Oil, Todd


    Dolby? He actually showed up? Calista is truly impressive. Despite not bing thedy of the Fairchild family, she''s now the goddaughter they hold in high esteem. The Fairchild family''s wealth she''s inheriting in the future isn''t that much different from being thedy of the house."


    "Look, that''s the King of Diamonds, Lucian Hollins! It''s extremely difficult to meet with him. Who would have thought he''d show up!"


    Many highly aplished individuals immediately conversed with even more impressive figures, their keen interest and respect piqued by the yet-to-appear Calista.


    The fact that the Fairchild family epted her as a goddaughter and held the ceremony with such grandeur had them believing that she must have had exceptional qualities. Meanwhile, Calista was changing into her gown backstage.


    She had initially chosen one, and everyone thought it was quite good. However, Kallum vetoed it in the end and somehow procured a gown, tailored to fit Calista. It was even more exquisite than the one she was wearing! The luxurious dress was unveiled, revealing a stunning gown that resembled a starry night sky.


    Each star on the gradually darkening indigo backdrop was crafted from diamonds. The dress was already dazzling when held up. If worn, she was bound to be the most eye-catching person at the entire banquet. Kallum asked everyone to step back when it was time to zip up the dress. He stepped forward and smoothly slid the zipper up for Calista.


    His movements were slow, exuding a sense of ease and racy. In the full-length mirror, he stood behind Calista, a head taller than her, yet their reflection was unexpectedly perfect, reminiscent of a married couple.


    The delicate fairness of her


    corbone gradually vanished


    beneath Kallum''s fingertips. After


    securing the zipper, he didn''t retreat. Instead, he fetched something, his hands looping around Calista''s waist. He rested his head on her shoulder, slipping something onto her finger.


    Yet


    Upon ncing, Calista discovered it was the thumb ring she had shattered. Although it had been repaired, fine cracks could still be seen. However, they were hardly noticeable unless one looked closely. Of course, the ring also


    stirred up some unpleasant


    memories for her.


    "Doesn''t this ring belong only to thedy of the Fairchild family? It''s inappropriate for me to wear it," Calista said matter-of-factly, oblivious to how close Kallum was to her. The people around dared not look, as if a mere nce would set their hearts racing.


    The man and woman reflected in the mirror were equally dazzling as if a match made in heaven. The man even slipped a thumb ring onto the woman''s finger, reminiscent of a wedding band.


    "There''s nothing inappropriate about it. If I were to die, you would be thedy of the Fairchild family." He added silently, As the heir. If I survive, Calista will most definitely be thedy of the house. No doubt about that!

 Chapter 134 Love Her So Much

    Calista felt something was off, but the banquet was about to start, so she didn''t dwell on it too much. The corners of her mouth curled up, forming a small smile as she nced at herself in the mirror. "How do I look today?"


    The woman reflected in the mirror exuded an icy elegance. Dressed in a gown adorned with diamonds, resembling a starry night sky, she looked like a deity emerging from the darkness, out of everyone''s league. Kallum looked intensely at the mirror and eximed, "You''re the most beautiful woman I''ve ever seen."


    The attire she wore, along with the headpiece, was all made for their engagement ceremony. If Calista had been more observant, she would''ve noticed that Kallum''s outfitplemented hers.


    Her hairpin and his cufflinks were the indicators.


    Why does he have to stand so close to talk?Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    The awkwardness set in btedly, and Calista quickly said, "In that case, I''ll head down first!"


    After speaking, she extricated herself from Kallum''s "embrace", and left under the housekeeper''s escort.


    Kallum found it quite unsettling when his arms were suddenly empty. He pursed his lips, looking at his lone reflection in the mirror. A hint of darkness surfaced in his usually dignified gaze. What can I do to keep her by my side forever? Am I supposed to drag her down with me?


    For the first time in his life, Kallum was gued by such dark thoughts. The thoughts lingered in his mind, nearly driving him to madness.


    No, I can''t! Callie has liked me for over a decade. Even at the tender age of nine, she had been willing to risk her life to save me! Even though I misunderstood her, she still had feelings for me. When she saw I''d been poisoned, she didn''t hesitate to use her own body to neutralize the toxin. She had been so kind to me. How can I possibly entertain the thought of dragging such a good person down?


    Kallum closed his eyes.


    When I went to Lostaria, Calista had followed me there. I''ll never forget how we fought side by side, nor would I forget the sight of her, standing proudly in the fiery forest after taking a life. Every time I thought I couldn''t possibly love her more, she would always find a way to make me fall even deeper for her. Whenever I felt my love for her deepened, I realized my affection could never match the extent of her devotion. Just imagine the uproar when her medical skills that can extend one''s life are revealed. Many have been eager to find out the reason I''m still alive to this day. My family has kept it tightly under wraps. Yet, many still suspected Calista. In order to save me, Calista had risked her very life. She wouldn''t have needed to expose herself to such danger if it weren''t for me. Besides, the recent events deeply touched me, even though I didn''t express it. The doctors'' and experts'' gazes were wary as if looking at a monster. Only Calista had treated me as she did before, as though I was normal. She never repelled my nearness and even took the initiative to approach me. She had done so much for me. Her kindness toward me left me trembling with excitement.


    A sudden, intense desire to see Calista surged within Kallum at the thought.


    The thought of her stunning everyone with her radiant beauty, revealing her allure to the world, drove him mad with jealousy.


    Even after being apart for just a moment, he yearned to keep her firmly by his side.


    "Mr. Kallum, it''s time for you to head down." Before Ryder could even finish his sentence, Kallum was already gone.


    Baffled, he was unsure why Kallum was in such a rush.


    It could only be said that others wouldn''t understand those in love.


    As expected, Calista''s entrance had captured everyone''s attention.


    As the light shone upon her, many held their breath as if afraid to startle the angel that seemed to have descended from the night sky.


    Her makeup was light, save for her


    striking red lips. Anyone else


    wearing the gown that shimmered.


    like stars would have paled inparison, but when Calista


    wore


    it, she exuded an icy, noble elegance, as if she was standing atop the stars. No wonder she could be a part


    of the Fairchild family.


    Ss gave Calista aplex look, suddenly understanding why his wife was so fond of her. She''s akin to a radiant pearl and outshone her mother by far.


    A soft call reached her ears and Calista turned her head, only to find Kallum standing at the end, reaching out to her.


    Immediately, the rumors about Kallum''s disdain for Calista were discredited. Kallum, who rarely attended banquets, not only showed up that day but was even content to y a supporting role.


    It was just unclear why Calista hadn''t be his wife.


    Yet, Kallum was oblivious to the sounds around him. As he watched Calista approach him, his radiant smile emerged. Even in the night, it shone as brilliantly as the sun.


    The engagement party he had envisioned countless times before was hardly any different from the banquet before his eyes.


    Calista naturally didn''t turn down his outstretched hand in full view of the public. She ced her hand in his, which he immediately sped tightly He led her forward as if


    partaking in a certain cerem


    Many were left stunned, especially the young folks who werepletely captivated by the strikingly handsome man and beautiful woman.


    "Wasn''t today supposed to be a


    wee party? Why do they seem


    as if they''re at an engagement


    party? They''re just too perfect


    together! Mr. Kallum is so


    f her


    handsome! Only a beauty of


    caliber can stand beside him without


    being overshadowed!"


    Another person scoffed, "So what if she''s pretty? It''s not like Mr. Kallum is into her. Else, she wouldn''t have gone from being his fianc¨¦e to his godsister."

 Chapter 135 Persecution From Every Direction

    "But it doesn''t seem like Mr. Kallum dislike her-"


    "You don''t know that!" someone spected maliciously. "Perhaps Mr. Kallum looked pleased today because he finally got rid of her. That''s probably why he was being nice to her!"


    Kallum held tightly onto Calista as they walked toward their parents under the watchful eyes of the crowd. The scene was strikingly simr to a dream Calista had long ago.


    "Why are you here? You''re not in good health. Didn''t I tell you to just show your face for a bit and then go rest?" Calista asked in a hushed tone.


    Kallum responded in a simr tone, "Others will hold you with greater esteem if I did so. The outsiders might not be a problem, but not the rtives. They can be quite annoying and hard to handle."


    Calista followed Kallum''s gaze and believed him. Although Kallum was Ss'' only son, the other branch families had sons and daughters respectively, so they had long been eyeing the main family covetously.


    When Kallum hadn''t shown up, they looked at her with scrutiny and disdain as if questioning her value for Ss to view her with great importance.


    However, after Kallum arrived, their attitude became much more cautious. Even though Kallum was young, since taking over, he had proven to be even more assertive, wise, capable, and vibrant than Ss. He was acknowledged as the head of the family. Being favored by him naturally elevated Calista''s goddaughter status to new heights.


    All eyes were focused onstage, while the atmosphere was tense and chaotic offstage. Embarrassment crossed Yelena''s and Quincy''s expressions when they looked at Benedict beaming on stage.


    The Fairchild family had only invited Benedict up onstage, making it clear they didn''t want anyone else from the Stafford family involved. Moreover, Benedict also reaped the benefits from Calista''s sudden rise in status. That wasn''t good news for Yelena. "Mom! What has that b*tch ever done to deserve being a part of the Fairchilds?"


    Originally, Quincy was quite pleased when Kallum finally broke up with Calista. Calista''s goddaughter status was likely of little importance, merely apensation the Fairchild family gave to cate her.


    Contrary to expectations, the reality was entirely different. The Fairchild family had held such a grand party for Calista. Moreover, Kallum personally apanied Calista, which waspletely different from what she had imagined.


    Upon seeing Calista in all her glory, Quincy grounded her teeth in frustration, seething with envy.


    She''s the goddaughter of the Fairchild family! That''s far more morous than thedy of the Stafford family!


    Yelena said, "Isn''t it because her biological mother is close to Wanda?" Suddenly, she burst intoughter. "But this is good, though. Calista is now considered a member of the Fairchild family. As Calista''s sister, doesn''t this mean you can visit Fairchild Manor more? Now that Kallum is no longer engaged, you can win him over! Calista''s status as a goddaughter is nothingpared to you."


    The reluctance on Quincy''s face disappeared. She turned around to look at Kallum, feeling that even the most extravagant decor in the hall paled inparison to him. She would only be sessful in life if she could win his favor.


    The Yost family shared a simr sentiment as them.


    Mirabelle''s features were twisted,


    but her mother was quite optimistic. "Well, that''s a relief. The d*mned


    engagement is finally broken offhet


    With my daughter''s excellence and closeness to Kallum, no one is more suited to be thedy of the Fairchild family than our Mirabelle


    However, Mirabelle''s father, George Yost, was quite rational.


    "That''s not necessarily the case. Mr. Kallum''s engagement has indeed been broken off, but have you ever considered the socialites, who had watched from the sidelines, are ready to take action? It might have been better when he''s engaged, given Mirabelle''s intelligence, she could''ve taken things step by step."


    ncing around, Mirabelle noticed that many eyes were indeed fixated on Kallum, their gazes sparkling with interest.


    Instantly, her mood plummeted. In her eyes, Calista was undoubtedly conniving. By being a part of the Fairchild family, she could gain an advantage by being in a favorable position. What a crafty n indeed!


    Mirabelle''s mother, Regina,


    proposed, "Mirabelle, you could ask Kallum to dance with youter. It''s been quite some time since youst saw him. There might have been some misunderstandings between you two from someone''s instigation. You must seize the opportunity to clear things up!"


    Mirabelle nodded. "Don''t worry, Mom, I won''t let Calista seed!"


    In the past, Kallum only had eyes for me. This will never change!


    Perhaps the happiest person in the room was Benedict. He had originally thought Calista couldn''t win Kallum''s affection and thus had their engagement called off. Yet, he didn''t expect her to be a part of the Fairchild family. Could there be a better oue than that? Therefore, Benedict gave Calista a hearty pep talk, then cheerfully went to the drinks tables. Since his status had soared, he had found his confidence and was on cloud nine, exuding an air of triumph with every step he took.


    After making a grand introduction of Calista to everyone, the banquet reached a crescendo. Calista, while responding to the toasts of the crowd, spoke to Kallum. "Your health isn''t at its best right now, why don''t you get some rest?"


    How could Kallum just stand by and give others an opportunity to take advantage of pursuing Calista?


    "I feel fine."


    In reality, he was experiencing a prickling sensation throughout his entire body, yet not a trace was reflected on his face. Instead, he looked quite enthusiastic.


    "It''s been a while since it''s been this lively. I''ll stay here a bit longer."


    How can I possibly pass up the chance to dance the opening dance with herter?N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.

 Chapter 136 I Will Only Dance With Calista

    Ss and Wanda had previously arranged for someone else to open the dance floor with Calista out of concern for Kallum''s health. However, seeing their son showing interest now, they were naturally more than happy to facilitate it.


    At that moment, the music in the hall changed. Kallum bent forward slightly. Amidst the envious nces of many women, he extended a gentlemanly invitation gesture toward Calista.


    It''s happening! We''ve never seen Mr. Kallum dance before!


    Calista felt immense pressure under the scrutiny of numerous gazes from every direction. Yet, Kallum said with a smile, "Beautifuldy, I wonder if I might have the honor..." Before he could finish his sentence, suddenly, a mood killer appeared.


    "Kal! Are you feeling better now?"


    Mirabelle appeared in a white, puffy dress, a vision of innocent beauty. Her long, brown curly hair framing her almond-shaped eyes made them appear charming and enticing.


    The gazes of the surrounding people subtly shifted as soon as she began to speak. The former fianc¨¦e and childhood sweetheart on the same stage is intriguing. People had always whispered about Mr. Kallum''splex feelings for Mirabelle. Indeed, she''s the epitome of innocent beauty, butpared with Calista, the difference is clear as day! If Kallum hadn''t chosen Calista and gotten together with Mirabelle instead, his aesthetic taste would certainly be questionable.


    Kallum''s expression shifted subtly, and he slowly straightened his posture. "Do you need something?"


    His aloof demeanor and the tone he just used with Mirabelle were worlds apart. Anyone around them could tell that Mirabelle had fallen out of favor.


    Mirabelle was visibly in disbelief. I can''t believe Kallum is so indifferent at our next meeting. He only allowed me to take care of him up close previously. How did things change so drastically in such a short period? It must''ve been Calista intentionally sowing up discord! Mirabelle nced at Calista. Suppressing the resentment in her eyes, she smiled and said, "You look stunning tonight, Callie. However, since you''re Kal''s former fianc¨¦e, it wouldn''t be appropriate for you to share the opening dance with him. After all, your statuses are different now. It''s such a pity, as I was looking forward to seeing you and Kal open the dance floor together!"


    Calista raised an eyebrow. Looking forward?


    Without hesitation, she grabbed Kallum''s hand. "Since someone''s looking forward to it, let''s not dampen their spirits. Let''s do the opening dance!"


    At that moment, the hall had cleared to form a dance floor, waiting for the evening''s main characters tomence the dance. Upon hearing Calista''s words, the surrounding people began to cheer, encircling the two of them.


    Mirabelle''s eyes widened, and she turned green.


    I''m most certainly not looking forward to it! Has Calistapletely ignored my earlier words? I''d clearly stated that it isn''t appropriate for her to dance with Kallum with her current status!


    So, she quickly forced augh, saying, "Callie, you''ve misunderstood. I meant that considering you''re now practically half a daughter of the Fairchild family, and given your previous rtionship with Kal, it wouldn''t be appropriate for you two to dance together. So, how about this? You should dance with my cousin instead!"


    As she spoke, she pushed a man forward.


    Calista scoffed, thinking she would be out of her mind to give the Yost family a chance to steal the limelight.


    Before she could even speak, Kallum''s reaction was even more intense than hers.


    He gave the man a cool, piercing nce before leading Calista off the dance floor, dering assertively, "In this world, I''ll only dance with Callie!"


    Mirabelle was taken aback. What does Kallum mean by that?


    She quickly took a few steps to catch up, eximing, "Kal! You..."


    Kallum halted in his tracks, his thick eyebrows furrowing deeply.


    "Also, who gave you permission to call me like that?"


    He shot Mirabelle a displeased nce. "You think you''re worthy?"


    Mirabelle''s face instantly turned ashen. She could even hear mockingughter behind her.


    A wave of relief washed over Calista after hearing his words.


    She peeked out from behind Kallum and added, "Another thing, don''t call me Callie. We''re not close."


    Someone burst outughing, believing Mirabelle would be too embarrassed to show her face for some time. Disregarding whatever expression Mirabelle had, the two of them entered hand in hand, dancing the opening number. After giving Mirabelle a harsh lesson, Calista was in a great mood, her lips quirked up high, reflecting her inner joy.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Only then did Kallum realize how simple it was to please Calista. It looks like Mirabelle can indeed cause trouble a bit longer... Mirabelle had already run off in tears. If she didn''t leave then, she would have had to endure even more humiliating remarks.


    How could this happen? How could Kallum treat me like this? Even though he was aloof in the past, he was always amodating toward me. Why did things change? Could he have forgotten that I "saved him back then? Or could he have already discovered that Calista was the one who saved him in his childhood?


    The thought startled Mirabelle, causing her to feel a little


    apprehensive about looking at the


    bustling crowd behind her. A chill began to creep up her spine


    en


    Swr


    .n


    It must''ve been the case. Otherwise, what can exin Kallum''s sudden indifference toward me and shift his affections to Calista? No... It''s impossible. If Kallum knew the truth, why wouldn''t he marry Calista? Besides, Calista couldn''t provide any evidence to prove that she was the one who did it. After all, who would believe that a nine-year-old girl could rescue a thirteen-year-old boy from the water? Hence, Calista must''ve done something! She must''ve sowed some discord. Otherwise, Mr. Kallum wouldn''t treat me like this! That d*mned woman!


    Just then, a figure from the crowd started walking toward her.

 Chapter 137 I Am Done Dancing

    "Mirabelle! I thought you were formidable. Yet you werepletely suppressed by that despicable Calista!"


    Seeing that they were alone, Quincy led Mirabelle toward a secluded spot by the swimming pool. "Don''t tell me you''ve already decided to give up!" she eximed. Mirabelle had alreadyposed herself when facing outsiders. She looked somewhat gloomily at Quincy, this person who was neither friend nor foe.


    "You didn''t make it clear over the phone. Why has Calista changed so much? It''s as if she''s apletely different person!"


    Mirabelle''s mention of it made Quincy feel wronged. She gritted her teeth and said, "How was I to know what triggered this d*mned woman? That day, I merely arranged for two men to assault her to annul the engagement. But who knew that after that night, she would turn as vicious as a mad dog, attacking anyone in sight! My mom has warned me to steer clear of her for a while."


    Mirabelle shot her a look of resentment. "You must have given something away. She wouldn''t be like this if she hadn''t been deeply affected!"


    Quincy looked at Mirabelle with distaste, scoffing. "You act as if your hands are clean. ording to Calista, she already knows that you were the one who drugged herst time, causing her to lose her virginity. Do you dare to say you didn''t contribute to her going mad?"


    Upon hearing that, Mirabelle''s eyes widened in fear, not because she was scared of Calista figuring out it was her. After all, she had made it quite obvious during that time. I fear that, back then, I had held Calista in contempt and employed not-so-clever tactics. I haven''t left any traces behind, have I? Has she obtained some evidence that made Kallum trust her?


    "What do we do now?" Mirabelle''s face, devoid of any pretense of a smile, gave off a gloomy aura. "She''s practically half a member of the Fairchild family now. Who knows, this could all be part of her scheming, trying to gain an advantage by being in a favorable position. We can''t let her get her way!"


    Upon hearing her say "we", Quincy couldn''t help but curl her lips. However, with a sudden idea, she smiled and said, "I think Mr. Kallum still prefers you. After all these years, you are the only one he treats differently. I bet Calista has been sowing discord in front of him, and given how busy Mr. Kallum is, you won''t know when you''ll see him next if you fail to clear up the misunderstanding tonight. I''m sure you know that since Mr. Kallum is still recovering from his injury, Calista has been using her little medical knowledge as an excuse to stay at Fairchild Manor every day. This constantpanionship..."


    Her words made Mirabelle feel a great deal of pressure.


    Should I let things continue like this, Calista would be the only person in Kallum''s eyes from now on.


    Back in the banquet hall, the cheers grew louder and louder. Calista felt like holes were forming in her body from the many gazes piercing her.


    She had hastily learned a few steps in preparation for the dance tonight. She wouldn''t have been nervous had she been paired with the pre-arranged partner. However, it had to be Kallum.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    No one had ever seen him dance. However, as he was a natural aristocrat, dancing was an inherent skill of his. Calista couldn''t understand how he maintained his dance skills, especially since she had never seen him practice.


    "Focus."


    Kallum looked down at her, a soft smile ying on his lips as he spoke to her with a fondness that was hard to miss.


    All Calista could see when she snapped out of her reverie were his overwhelmingly dazzling eyes. She identally stepped on Kallum''s foot in a moment of distraction. Startled, she hastily stepped back, but due to her instability, she nearly fell over.


    A gasp rippled through the crowd,


    not because Calista had taken a


    nasty fall, but because, at the crucial moment she had been tightly shielded in the arms of Kallum To their surprise, the man reputed for his indifference toward women didn''t push her away.


    The significant height difference between them allowed the girl, who was as captivating as a goddess from the starry skies, to exhibit a sense of delicate dependence for the first time. Her face was nestled into the crook of Kallum''s arm, her waist firmly held by his strong hands. She could hear his slightly rapid heartbeat, a pleasant sound that seemed to resonate from within his chest.


    "Aren''t you going to get up yet? How long do you n on staying in my arms?"


    Finally, even with Calista''s usually thick skin, her cheeks were pink.


    Amidst the moring discussions, she stood upright and red at Kallum.


    Her eyes were gleaming, her cheeks flushed with a rosy hue. Despite the fierce and sharp look in her eyes, it seemed as though Kallum reveled in it, her gaze leaving him feeling all tingly and numb.


    Calista found the look in his eyes peculiar. Even though he was half a meter away from her, his gaze seemed to be trying to reel her in, as if he wanted to consume her whole.


    The sudden oppressive aura caused


    Calista to furrow her brows. Unconsciously, she stepped back,


    only to see Kallum reverting to hist previous demeanor - an image of nobility with a faint hint of


    ve


    tended)


    gentleness. He even extended his hand toward her again under the beam of light.


    "Shall we continue?"


    Although he framed it as a question, Calista felt his dominance at that moment.


    She still extended her hand. After all, even if she had be half a member of the Fairchild family, she couldn''tpare to the person who held the reins in the household.


    In the profound silence, her senses heightened. The closer her hand moved toward Kallum''s, the more palpable the oppression radiating from him became.


    The adoration in his eyes was like an all-epassing, leaving her with a feeling of breathlessness.


    Finally, she lightly pped his hand, saying in a voice that held a hint of petnce, "I''m done dancing!"


    With that, she turned with a cold expression, lifting her skirt as she walked away. This action left the guests, who had been captivated by the couple, with expressions of astonishment.

 Chapter 138 The Confrontation

    Is she throwing a tantrum? Even though she has be a part of the Fairchild family, she has rejected none other than Mr. Kallum!


    But what made it a rare sight was seeing Calista puffing out her chest and holding her head high, leaving as if in defiance. Kallum slowly curved his lips, feeling as if she was fleeing in panic.


    I seem to have failed to rein in my desires just now. What should I do? It seems I''ve scared my little one.


    Benedict wore an awkward expression as he apologized to Ss after seeing that, "My apologies... Callie, it''s her first time dancing... she might be a bit shy, it''s not that she..." He ended the sentence in his mind. She intentionally disrespects Mr. Kallum.


    Ss revealed a thoughtful expression, while Wanda quickly reassured with a light-heartedugh, "No worries. This is a matter between them youngsters. In reality, they''ve been getting along splendidly before! Kallum must''ve done something today to upset Callie. She''s a good girl."


    Wanda was right. Calista was obedient and sensible.


    If all she had was fondness toward Calista previously, she was grateful to her now.


    How great of a danger would Callie face if word got out that she possess medical skills that could extend one''s lifespan? Furthermore, each time she performs acupuncture for Kallum, she would deplete her vitality. Yet, there was no telling when he would finally recover. Not only did Callie demonstrate peculiar medical skills that put her in danger, but she even risked her health to prolong Kallum''s life. Our family aren''t ungrateful people. Forget about Callie throwing a tantrum, even if she wants tomit murder or arson, we''ll hand her the knife. Seeing the Fairchild family treating Calista as they always had... No, even better than before, Benedict was relieved. With his limited capabilities and being busy at home, he felt that having a godfamily like the Fairchilds caring for his daughter was an incredibly fortunate situation that was hard toe by. After Calista went out, she felt much better. Her long skirt trailed over the immacte marble floor, and as the moonlight fell, the diamonds adorning her dress sparkled like a true starry sky, a sight too beautiful for words. It made her entire being seem to radiate light. Her mind wandered from her exam to her previous life at the research center. She recalled the sporadic words spoken by those entric individuals and the medicine they had tested on her, along with her reactions at the time.


    At that thought, Calista suddenly let out a bitterugh.


    What other reaction could there be? It was pain, intense pain as if it was drilling into the very marrow of my bones. Had it not been for my astonishing willpower and a terrifying desire to survive, I would''ve gone mad or died during those three years I spent in darkness... Thinking of those people now, it wasn''t that I don''t harbor resentment, and I don''t need to. I''m slowlying into her own, and soon, she would trample over every one of them! Why should I bear any hatred towards the dead and the defeated? Chuckling softly, Calista strolled by the pool, her mood significantly improved. Just then, someone blocked her path.


    "Calista! What exactly have you done to make Kal change his attitude toward me?" d in a white dress, Mirabelle looked eerily pale under the moonlight. Her expression was even more sinister than that of a ghost.


    At that moment, Quincy hid in the


    shadows to enjoy the drama. Granddad was right. I should let


    them fight it out and reap the


    benefits from their conflict. Calista is difficult to deal with, but Mirabelle is, after all, the childhood friend. She can''t possibly be without any influence.


    Calista chuckled lightly, her demeanor growing increasingly distant and aloof.


    "Mirabelle, aren''t you aware of what I''ve done? You used to see me as stupid and did not-so-clever things to me. Now that I''ve be smarter, are you regretting your past decisions?"


    "No wonder your attitude haspletely changed..."


    Mirabelle''s voice was soft. From her perspective, it was understandable that Calista''s personality dramatically changed after suddenly discovering that her best friend and sister were harming her.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "However, I have no idea what you''re talking about! What did I do back then? Haven''t I always been good to you? Callie, you need evidence to nder someone."


    Mirabelle broke into a smile, seemingly reverting to her previous innocent and harmless demeanor.


    "Evidence? Isn''t your character the best evidence? The fact that you could poison your teacher until he''s mute and steal his aplishments goes to show that you''re not someone who''d risk their life to save others."


    Calista shook her head.


    Mirabelle''s expression changed instantly.


    "It was you who meddled in Xander''s matter?" she eximed. How did she find out? That''s impossible!


    Calista readily epted it. She didn''t mind bringing down her enemies, much less making them hate her even more.


    "You guessed right. It was indeed me. Do you think Kallum will still believe you when he realizes that the pure and innocent you had done such a thing? If I were to tell him I had saved him back then afterward, there wouldn''t be a shred of doubt in his mind."


    "You b*tch!" Mirabelle suddenly


    strode forward. "Is this how you sow


    discord? Someone close to me


    carried out the incident with Xander.


    I waspletely unaware. Besides..." She then continued inwardly. If it were for the position of thedy of the Fairchild household, I''d surely be willing to adopt a ruse of self-injury! It''s just that Calista was so naive at that time, willing to risk her life to save others, that I had no choice but to take advantage of it.


    "But that wasn''t your original idea, yet you still imed it as your own to the public, didn''t you?" Calista pointed out, her tone casual yet incisive. "Admit it. You''re nothing but vain, malicious, and hypocritical. In simpler terms, you''re doing immoral things while maintaining a facade of innocence!"


    "Shut up!" Mirabelle had never imagined anyone could infuriate her to this extent. "Just shut up!"

 Chapter 139 Lashing Out

    Calista was not at all intimidated by Mirabelle''s distorted expression and her suppressed resentment. Far from retreating, she advanced with aposed stride.


    "Are you angry? When you first instructed me to prepare the medicine, to drug Kallum, and subtly hinted at Kallum to investigate me, I was furious too when I found out about all of this."


    Calista''s eyes were clear, carrying a faint hint of amusement. Any signs of anger or resentment were now gone. After all, Mirabelle was not a formidable opponent. Who would fear someone destined to be trampled underfoot? Mirabelle took a half step back, a surge of anger welled up within her, too intense to suppress. Yet, she refused to admit that she had actually been intimidated by Calista.


    Calista spoke casually. "When we were kids, you were the only one who didn''t mind my loner tendencies. Youforted me, yed with me, and that''s why every time Mrs. Fairchild invited me, I always brought you along..." That was a tale from a long time ago, so distant that when Mirabelle heard it, she felt as if she was on trial.


    "You said you wanted to get close to Mrs. Fairchild and to have an older brother. When we were young, I naively introduced you to them, spoke highly of you... I was foolish, only realizing toote. Before you came along, Kallum was merely indifferent to me. But after you entered the picture, his attitude toward me worsened. I can''t help but wonder what you did..."


    By the pond, the reflections of two figures, one ck and one white, mirrored their emotions. The autumn wind was chilling, making Mirabelle feel as if it was piercing her bones...


    "You once broke Mrs. Fairchild''s jewelry box, and I took the me for you. At school, when you struggled with your grades, I helped you cheat whenever I could. You said you were afraid that Quincy would resent you because of me, so I kept my distance from you. But in reality, you just felt embarrassed by my presence, didn''t you? After all these years, I thought I had been good to you, Mirabelle. Why would you harm me like this? And not just once, but repeatedly, each time worse than thest?"N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Calista''s relentless questioning finally pushed Mirabelle to the brink of copse.


    "What do you think you are? It''s your honor to pave the way for me!" Mirabelle''s voice suddenly rose,den with profound resentment. Noticing they were alone, she suddenly reached forward, clutching onto Calista''s arm tightly. Her eyes held an intense, frightful look.


    "What are you? A nobody! So why on earth are you engaged to Kal? I''ve always been the cream of the crop, known all over Horington as the most suitable woman to marry! But do those ordinary men even deserve to dream of me? Yet the man I desire, why is he tied to you?" Mirabelle''s expression was filled with disdain and resentment.


    "As ady of a prestigious family, I had to lower myself to befriend you just to gain entrance to Fairchild Manor, just to meet Kal. And you! You, a good-for-nothing waste, how dare you step on me? By what right?"


    "So, I deserved to be used by you? And even after you''ve used me, it''s still not enough? You even despise me and cast me aside? Mirabelle, on what basis? Family background? Do you think you canpete with the Whiteman family or the Quinn family? Looks? Do you think you''re more attractive than me?Talent? Character?"


    Calista shook her head, scoffing, "On what grounds do you look down on me? With your giaristic character and almost zero talent? No, there''s one thing! Your shamelessness has far surpassed mine!" "B*tch!" Mirabelle shrieked, attempting to p Calista across the face. However, Calista was quick to catch her hand.


    Under the cold and deep gaze of Calista, Mirabelle seemed as ridiculous as a clown.


    "Embarrassed and angry? Flustered? It''s rare to see such expressions on your face. Do you know how you make me feel? You''re shameless, that''s what. I still can''t believe that you''d stoop so low as to steal Credit from a nine-year-old girl, brazenly iming her life-saving deed as your own. I can''t even stand to look at you without feeling disgusted!"


    Calista rebuked.


    After Calista spoke, she gave a slight push and Mirabelle found herself sitting on the ground. It wasn''t that Calista exerted much force, rather, Mirabelle''s legs had gone weak under the calm yet intimidating aura of Calista. She just didn''t realize it herself. This is really ridiculous.


    Calista took a moment to appreciate


    the disarray that Mirabelle was in, before turning to leave. What she didn''t anticipate, however, was just how provoked Mirabelle had be. Mirabelle first fixed her gaze on Calista''s retreating figure,


    then suddenly picked up a stone and hurled it toward Calista''s head!


    Sensing danger, Calista turned her head, instinctively wanting to dodge. Yet, at this very moment, her long skirt got caught on arge rock of the artificial hill beside her. For a moment, she was unable to avoid it. ""Watch out!"


    Kallum hadn''t expected to walk into such a scene. Yet, instinctively, he moved with a speed barely perceptible to the naked eye, darted forward, and swept Calista into his arms, spinning around fiercely!


    A sharp sound pierced the air, and in a split second, Mirabelle had lost control. Her face filled with terror as sheshed out at Kallum. But the sight was even more horrifying for Calista, who was under protection. She was determined not to let Kallum shed a single drop of blood.


    So, she suddenly mustered all her strength, and turned around while clutching onto Kallum. The next second, a stone thrown by Mirabelle hit her bare shoulder. Calista let out a muffled groan, blood already trickling down.


    At that moment, Kallum''s pupils contracted sharply upon seeing blood, and a chilling aura of terror and rage suddenly erupted from him. The very air began to simmer with tension.


    Kallum instinctively pushed Mirabelle away and held Calista tightly in his arms. After Mirabelle fell into the water, she realized how deep the pool was. At that moment, she had no time to think about anything else and quickly cried out, "Help! Help! I can''t swim!"

 Chapter 140 She Has Been Lying

    Kallum dared not touch Calista''s wound. After all, he himself was also in grave danger. Yet, Calista''s selfless protection of him sent tremors through his body and soul. Holding her, Kallum found himself somewhat at a loss. At that moment, Quintus rushed over and was taken aback upon seeing Calista''s condition.


    "Mr. Kallum, perhaps it would be best if you handed Ms. Calista over to me. I''ll take her to get bandaged up."


    Upon seeing Calista''s evident difort, Kallum, albeit reluctantly, let her go. His heart was filled with a lingering sense of unwillingness. However, even after Calista had left, he remained. His chest was filled with pent-up rage that needed to be vented. As the cries of rm grew louder, many people who heard themotion came out to see what was happening. When they arrived, they discovered that someone had fallen into the water. Yet, amidst all this, Kallum stood by the poolside, unmoving. "Quick, save her!" Without a second thought, Wanda urged others to rescue the person.


    "Who dares to make a move!" Kallum suddenly raised his voice in a furious shout. The anger he was suppressing seemed as if the person drowning in the water was his most despised enemy.


    Under Kallum''s intimidating presence, everyone around fell silent. Shockingly, they all just stood there, watching the girl flounder in the water. It was only when Mirabelle''s parents recognized their daughter''s voice that they let out a gasp and rushed over immediately. ""Mirabelle!"


    Regina was just about to send someone to rescue her daughter, but her father coldly held her back. At that moment, he surprisingly asked Kallum with a respectful yet tense demeanor, "Mr. Kallum, I''m unsure of what my daughter has done to warrant such punishment from you?"


    Kallum shot him a nce, the anger in his eyes making George shudder. He had dealt with Kallum before, but he had never seen that ever-superior man, actually having such a furious moment.


    However, at that moment, his daughter''s cries were growing fainter. Fear gripped his heart, yet he mustered the courage to ask, "My daughter can''t swim. This could end in disaster! Mr. Kallum..." "Right, Kallum..." Wanda also walked over, a hint of urgency in her voice. "How about we focus on rescuing her first?"


    Kallum suddenly let out a cold, mockingugh. "Fine, save her."


    Upon seeing him relent, everyone hurriedly scrambled to rescue Mirabelle. In no time, Mirabelle was sprawled on the edge of the swimming pool, gasping for breath. Her makeup waspletely smeared, and she was crying hysterically while coughing up water. Her face was in such a state that it was almost unbearable to look at. Just as everyone was about to help Mirabelle up, Kallum suddenly stepped forward, blocking everyone from reaching her.


    The expressions on the faces of the Yost family members changed drastically. Could it be that Kallum had a change of heart?


    Mirabelle was also trembling.


    Just moments ago, she was in the water, desperately calling for help. Yet, in her peripheral vision, she saw that Kallum was merely watching from the sidelines with an indifferent gaze. He didn''t speak, and those around him didn''te to her aid either. For a moment, she thought she was going to die right there.


    Suddenly, she found herself wishing that if she could live, she would


    could


    never aspiredContent from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    to be thedy of the


    house again. This man was terrifying. After knowing him for so many years, he could actually watch her die without batting an eyelid. She was heartbroken and filled with extreme fear. If possible, she would have loved to distance herself from the Fairchild family forever.


    At that moment, she was gazing at the man standing loftily by the pool, only half a meter away from her. Her hand slipped, nearly plunging her back into the water. Fortunately, the man who had saved her from the water steadied her from behind. What''s Kallum trying to do? Does he have to drive me into a corner? Hadn''t he decided to let me go already?


    Kallum nced at her, his gaze cold and unwavering. In the end, he let out a mockingugh.


    "Ms. Yost, could you tell me how you, a non-swimmer, managed to rescue me from a pool nearly as deep as this one nine years ago when I was unconscious?"


    Mirabelle''s face turned ashen in an instant.


    Kallum chuckled again, his imposing presence radiating fiercely around him, silencing everyone present. For all these years, whenever he lost his temper, even his own father would steer clear of his wrath, let alone these outsiders. "I... I''m sorry..."


    Mirabelle finally snapped back to


    reality, realizing that Kallum had discovered her deception! She


    pleaded in a low voice, instinctively wanting to y the victim to get through the situation. However, d to her fear of Kallum, even


    attempts to appear pitifue


    due


    pathetically unbearable to witness.


    Suddenly, she reached out and clutched onto Kallum''s pants, her wrist trembling lightly. This time, she was truly fearful.


    "Kal... no, Mr. Kallum! Mr. Kallum, I won''t dare to do it again... cough, cough... I truly won''t, considering our childhood friendship..."


    "Given our history as childhood friends," Kallum slowly pulled up his pants, his smile chilling. "I''ve decided to shorten your time in jail by a few days."


    "Jail?" The Yost family members'' already tense expressions shifted instantly. What on earth had their daughter done to face imprisonment? Kallum slightly lifted his refined chin, speaking slowly with his eyes half-closed.


    "Just now, she tried to murder Callie right in front of me. That''s attempted homicide. Mr. Yost, brace yourself for awyer''s notice!"


    After speaking, he couldn''t bear to look at Mirabelle anymore. He strode away, the thought of Calista losing so much blood making him frantic with worry. The menacing aura that hung around him gradually dissipated. Even Ryder, who was following behind him, couldn''t keep up.


    Ryder was shocked, for it had been a long while since Kallum let his emotions show. Moreover, Kallum had blood on his hands, and his murderous aura was so intense that even he could hardly bear it. No wonder the guests were taken aback.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 141 Damsel To The Rescue

    The only hope was for the Yost family to show some sense and send Mirabelle to jail. If they didn''t y by the rules, there was a real chance that Kallum would have to take matters into his own hands. "Does it hurt? It''s always the knight to the rescue when a damsel is in distress. Besides, it''ll be faster if Kallum the one who''s injured, but if you get hurt, it might take you a good week or two to recover." As Shaun applied the medicine to her, he expressed his thoughts. He felt that Calista''s decision not to let Kallum protect her, but instead protect him, was an unwise move.


    Calista furrowed her brows. "Have you forgotten what''s going on with Kallum now?"


    Upon hearing this, Shaun finally understood why Calista did so, yet he couldn''t help but say, "You, youngdy, alwayse off as cold on the outside but warm at heart. Even in the most critical moments, you always put Mr. Kallum first. If I had someone who cared for me like you do when I was young, I wouldn''t be alone now!"


    Before Calista could respond, Quintus yfully chimed in from the side, "Old Mr. Yancey, you''ve got quite the imagination! Looking at you now, there''s no way you were handsome in your youth! You think you couldpete with Mr. Kallum? Only a blind girl would have liked you back then."


    Shaun red and eximed, "Nonsense! Callie has been fond of Kallum for a long time, back when they were children, and puppy love was the purest love of all. Callie, tell this superficial person how you fell for Kallum back then."


    At the doorstep, Kallum was simrly holding his breath in anticipation of her answer.


    Calista paused for a moment before she spoke in a subdued tone. "My childhood was too oppressive, and everything seemed to be in ck and white. As all of you know, Kallum has always been a dazzling figure since he was a child. At first... I suppose I was envious of him, envious of his unrestrained audacity, his proud and eye-catching demeanor. Butter on..." She hummed lightly and continued, "All that''s in the past now. From now on, you all have to address me as Ms. Calista! I''m practically on par with Kallum now." Shaun and Quintus exchanged a nce, both fully aware of the circumstances. The primary reason Calista was adopted as a foster daughter by the Fairchild family was because Kallum was worried he might not survive, and wanted to secure her future. Yet, it seemed as though Calista genuinely intended to regard him as her brother.


    Shaun cleared his throat with a couple of dry coughs. "Callie, could you secretly tell me, do you still have feelings for Mr. Kallum? If he gets better, and he proposes to you¡ª"T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "There''s no way!" Calista interrupted, her voice somewhat cold. "Let''s not even discuss the possibility of curing him. Now that I''m already the youngdy of the Fairchild family, I won''t be Kallum''s wife. Everything before is in the past."


    Inside, a hush fell over the room. Meanwhile, outside the door, Kallum suddenly felt as if the stabbing pain within his body had be even more unbearable. It was as if his heart was in agony too.


    "Mr. Kallum..." Ryder softly consoled him, "Once you''re better, do you think there won''t be opportunities? Ms. Calista is just a person who talks tough but has a soft heart..."


    "Who''s there?" Calista had sharp ears. She heard something but couldn''t make it out clearly. At that moment, the door swung wide open. Kallum had alreadyposed himself. As he entered, he saw Calista''s exposed back and the somewhat terrifying scars on it. Anger red up in his eyes once again, but with a stride of his long legs, he was already by Calista''s side.


    "How''s it going?" he asked Shaun.


    "Why did you guyse over? Aren''t you guys alreadyte to the party?" Calista asked with a hint of surprise.


    Something urred to Kallum, his eyes roiled with frustration, but Ryder had already spoken up with augh. "Without you, the star of the show What''s the point of this party? Besides, Mr. Kallum was worried about you, so he came over first."


    Calista nodded in agreement.


    Shaunmented, "Thankfully, the injury didn''t reach the bone, but it was still quite a deep wound. Mr. Kallum, has the perpetrator been dealt with?"


    Does he think I''ll let Mirabelle go with suffering any repercussions?


    Seeing that Calista seemed interested, he lowered his voice and said, "She intentionally hurt someone, so she must have been taken to the police station by now."


    Kallum spoke nonchntly, but his


    right-hand man, Ryder, rubbed his forehead behind him. It wasn''t as simple as Kallum handling someone by the poolside. If help had arrived a momentter, Mirabelle would probably have been dead by now. Furthermore, Kallum had been so furious earlier, as if he was about tomit murder! How could it be summed up so casually?


    Calista nodded. "That works too. Saves me the trouble of dealing with her."


    The thought of Mirabelle spending a few days at the police station was unsettling. It could instantly change her status from the most desirable daughter-inw in the entire Horington to the most avoided one, wouldn''t it?


    Previously, Xander''s affairs were


    merely industry matters, but his


    imprisonment struck at the very core of Mirabelle. The thought of her being ruthlessly knocked down unable to rise again, actually put a rare smile on Calista''s face.


    Upon observing that Shaun was not being "gentle" in his actions, Kallum had already begun to furrow his brows deeply from the sidelines. While Calista had been administered anesthetic, that didn''t justify such rough handling. So, Kallum said, "Everyone, please leave. Old Mr. Yancey, what medicine are you using? I''ll handle it."


    "I don''t think that''s necessary." Calista was the first to object. No matter who was injured, they would want an expert to handle it, not an amateur.


    Shaun noticed Kallum''s demeanor and said, "Well, these are the two types. First apply this medicine, then this one. After bandaging, a shot will do the trick!"


    Seeing no way out, Calista gave Kallum a doubtful look and hurriedly said, "You''re not nning to give me another injection, are you?"

 Chapter 142 Longings And Desires

    Could he locate the vein?


    Of course Kallum could. Over time, having received so much treatment, he had practically be a doctor himself. However, upon noticing that Calista was reluctant, he cast a nce at Shaun.


    With a cheerful tone, Shaun assured, "Don''t worry, I''ll give you the injectionter."


    With that, he swiftly led his people away.


    Nowadays, wherever Kallum went, he was always apanied by two people to prevent any mishaps. However, with Calista around, there was no need for worry. It was a mystery where this young girl got all her ingenious ideas from.


    The experts and professors in theb couldn''t stop singing her praises. Their secret research on the K virus was way ahead of any other country''s progress! If they were not still bound by secrecy, their current achievements would undoubtedly have shaken the world! Of course, there was still a long way to go before conquering the K virus.


    However, with Calista around, they all felt confident, and their belief in oneself was also strengthened.


    After everyone had left, Kallum began to feel nervous. Calista had her back to him, revealing arge expanse of her fair skin. The wound on it was ghastly, but the stark contrast of red against white was incredibly striking. His breaths became ragged, and he was almost trembling as he continued to apply medicine to her wound.


    Calista had quite a night and was rather worn out. She closed her eyes to rest, her long, starry sky dress trailing the floor in tatters. Even indoors, its brilliance was undeniable. Yet, its radiance could neverpare to the dazzling person wearing it.


    Calista was leaning there, much like a wounded mermaid. Every curve of her body exuded an enchanting beauty that could rival the marvels of nature itself.


    Kallum admitted he was bewitched. His fingers were slightly stiff as he held back. In the past, without a second thought, he would have pulled the woman before him into his arms, kissed her gorgeous hair, punished those who dared to annoy her, and brought her under his protective wing.


    The room was eerily quiet, an unnatural silence hanging in the air. Unable to bear it any longer, Calista initiated a conversation. "Almost slipped my mind, were you alright today?"


    Kallum''s voice echoed within the quiet, private space, carrying a somewhat husky tone that hinted at an enticing allure.


    "I''m fine. I didn''t eat anything, nor did I drink alcohol. Apart from you, I didn''t interact with anyone else."


    Calista didn''t catch the strangeness in his response and nodded in reassurance. However, she feared that Kallum might find his current life too restrictive and oppressive. After all, the patient''s mood was crucial. She said, "You don''t have to feel oppressed."


    As Kallum applied the medicine, his hand paused momentarily. Seated on the sofa, his body involuntarily tensed, his eyes dark and unfathomable as an abyss.


    With a voice that was distinctly dignified andposed, contrasting his expression, he replied, "So, you noticed I was suppressing something?"


    Did she realize the depth of his feelings for her, which he was increasingly unable to restrain?


    Calista was taken aback. She had merely asked out of politeness and now she had no choice but to continue. "I understand that you''re currently isted from society, confined to this old house, and only able to see a few familiar faces. On top of that, you''re constantly worried about your illness. It''s


    understandable that you''re feeling distressed and suffocated. However, such a mindset is detrimental to our treatment. It might sound harsh, but it''s crucial for you to maintain a positive and cheerful attitude."


    As she spoke these words with such clear-headed calmness, a palpable disappointment shed in Kallum''s eyes.


    His demeanor became increasingly somber, yet his tone seemed oddly upbeat. "It''s okay. With you guys around, especially you, I don''t feel the slightest bit distressed."


    In truth, the only unbearable thing was his longing! He yearned to be with Calista, not just watch her from afar, orchestrating her escape routes and wishing her well.


    Yet, he was the least qualified person to utter those words. He didn''t even know when he would breathe hisst, let alone her...


    That peculiar sensation returned.


    Calista felt an overwhelming presence from Kallum standing behind her. He was merely applying medicine, yet it felt incredibly oppressive. However, she couldn''t refuse. Perhaps Kallum was just trying to do something for her, to prove himself. If she rejected him, he might think she was just like everyone else, afraid of him, which


    wouldn''t be conducive to his


    treatment.


    With this thought, sheforted him once again in a stern and cold whisper. "Don''t worry, you won''t die."


    Calista recalled her past life, where she had suffered from the K Virus for many years and ultimately died indirectly because of it. This memory made her feel a deeper sense of empathy toward Kallum.


    "I''ll heal you, you definitely won''t die."


    "Callie..."


    Kallum could no longer contain his emotions. If it wasn''t for the injury on Calista''s back, he would have undoubtedly held her tightly in his embrace!


    How blind must he have been in the past to not see her worth? How could he have missed out on so many years with her? They would have been a truly happy couple!


    Not being able to embrace, not able to kiss, and even the inability to get close was driving him insane!


    In a seemingly inexplicable moment, Kallum suddenly lowered his head, gently pressing a kiss on the smooth skin next to her wound.


    After being sedated, Calista felt


    nothing,pletely unaware of the


    person behind her who was kissing her skin with suppressed yet joyful emotion. His eyes, brimming with a nearly devouring desire for her, masked an even more intense craving.


    Unperturbed by his demeanor, Calista casually remarked, "Don''t be too touched. I help you, you help me, it''s as simple as that. If you weren''t in such a high position, I wouldn''t have risked exposing myself!"Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 143 The Plea At The Doorstep

    Despite the outrageous words spoken, Kallum found himself chuckling softly. How could his Callie be so adorable? If it was as simple as that, would she have wagered such a high stake? Would she have instinctively shielded him in a split second without any time to think? Would she have noticed his mood andforted him?


    Calista was too captivating. He could never get enough of her.


    Kallum once again traced her back with a somewhat greedy touch. He sterilized the areas he had kissed with alcohol, carefully wiping several times before applying the medicine and dressing her wounds. "All right, I''ll call for Shaun."


    Kallum announced as he rose to his feet, and a wave of relief washed over Calista. She felt as if she could finally breathe again. She didn''t understand why his presence behind her had been so oppressive, but she didn''t dwell on it. After receiving her injection, she decided to freshen up and go to bed. She was utterly exhausted from the day''s events.


    Benedict was in a state of disbelief when he learned that Mirabelle was responsible for Calista''s injury. Hadn''t that girl always presented herself well in the past? How could she have done such a thing?


    He wanted to visit Calista, but was rejected. What''s more, it was Kallum who personally turned him away. For some reason, Benedict suddenly felt as though Calista was not there as a daughter, but rather as if she had already married into the Fairchild family. Otherwise, why would it be so difficult for him, her father, to see her? Moreover, the attitude of his "son-inw" was so assertive, his gaze even conveyed a sense of possession, as if Calista was his private property.


    "Mr. Kallum! Is Callie really all right?" Even though they were godfamily, Benedict dared not overstep boundaries with Kallum, maintaining the same cautious demeanor as before.


    Kallum was fiercely protective of anyone who dared to pry into his woman''s life. For some reason, his desire for control had intensified after falling ill. Previously, his focus was on power and control over the corporation, but now, i


    He was deeply grateful toward Benedict for birthing Calista. However, now that she was in his home, she belonged to him. The old man really seemed to be missing the point.


    Quintus wiped his sweat off to the side, he could practically guess what Kallum was thinking. However, he thought that this wasn''t fair for Calista as she had yet to marry. "Callie is doing well, and the Fairchild family won''t mistreat her. You can rest assured. As the head of a family, you should prioritize your business, so try not to visit her unnecessarily." Kallum spoke with an air of arrogance, his wordsced with impatience.


    Benedict was stunned as Kallum finished his words. This was his daughter, right? It had to be, right?


    "Um... okay, I''ll leave Callie in your care, Mr. Kallum."


    Even though he was clearly reluctant, Benedict still agreed to it. His ability to know his ce pleased Kallum greatly.


    "Good, from now on, avoid any transactions with the Langley family, the Wolford family, and their branch families. Dealing directly with the Fairchild family when necessary should be sufficient." Kallum made his demand directly, he knew all too well. If he didn''t assert himself, Benedict would surely be deceived!


    Sure enough, Benedict wore a troubled expression. "Just a few days ago, I negotiated a deal with the Langley family. After all, the Langleys are my inws, they wouldn''t..." Kallum furrowed his brows. "Gunner."


    As soon as he finished speaking, Gunner emerged from the shadows, much like an ancient personal shadow guard, always at beck and call. ""Yes, Mr. Kallum."


    "Escort Mr. Stafford backter and cancel this deal. The penalty for breach of contract will be paid by the Fairchild family. Additionally, stay with the Stafford family during this period and help them keep an eye on things, to prevent any opportunists from taking- advantage."


    Benedict was taken aback. He was baffled as to why someone of his modest capabilities would have the honor of being assigned Kallum''s confidant.


    "You don''t need to say more," Kallum interrupted Benedict, silencing any words he had intended to say. "If you''re willing, you can be part of the Fairchild family. We''ll handle all matters for you. All you need to do is be a little diligent and ambitious. Consider this a token of my affection for Callie. She once mentioned that you''re not cut out for business, and she was always


    worried that someone with ill


    §Ö


    intentions might take advantage of you."


    Initially, Benedict had his doubts. However, he was somewhat touched upon hearing thetter part of the conversation. It was all because of Calista. It was rare for her to be so concerned about him,


    even going as far as to ask "let''


    to lend a hand, sending people


    ensure his safety. If he were to reject this, it would be akin to not


    appreciating a good deed.


    was centered on a woman.


    Hence, he nodded, grinning as he said, "I appreciate it, Mr. Kallum. I''m really not cut out for business..." He preferred when others made all the decisions, and he just followed along.


    And so, in his naive way, Benedict had tied his own small family to the Fairchild family.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After making sure that there were no oversights, Kallum presented him with several coboration proposals that the Stafford family could handle. With Gunner''s help, they were likely to make a substantial profit.


    Benedictughed heartily, his eyes disappearing into crescent moons. In the end, hepletely forgot about meeting his own daughter and walked away contentedly.


    Only after he stepped out the door did he begin to feel a tinge of regret.


    "Darn it! Callie''s mental state was a bit off as she had been very upset. I forgot to tell Mr. Kallum about it."


    Gunner scoffed, finding Benedict''s worries unnecessary. After all, nothing could go wrong with Calista under the Fairchild family''s care.


    He said nonchntly, "With Mr. Kallum around, there''s no need to worry."


    Benedict nodded in agreement and sighed. "Kallum is truly remarkable! Even godfamily receives special treatment; the Fairchild family''s inws are truly fortunate."


    Gunner thought about those rtives who were timid around the young master, and then looked at the middle-aged man in front of him who wasughing a bit foolishly. He coldly remarked, "You''re just lucky to have such a good daughter."

 Chapter 144 A New Friend

    After returning home, Quincy ryed everything she had seen and heard that day to Yelena. As she spoke, there was still a hint of lingering fear in her voice!


    Calista''s previous actions had already frightened her. When Kallum arrivedter, she hastily slipped away, thankful for her quick escape. Otherwise, if Kallum had discovered her spying, he would undoubtedly have taken his anger out on her! After hearing everything, Yelena''s head ache.


    She began to confide in Quincy, sharing her deepest thoughts and feelings.


    "Quincy, you must grow up quickly... Your father hasn''t slept with me for a long time, from now on, I have to rely on you in this family. If you don''t step up, there''ll be no future for us."Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Upon reflection, Quincy realized it was true. Calista was practically a member of the Fairchild family now, making it incredibly difficult to do anything to her in the future.


    But how was she supposed to prove herself? She couldn''t even find a mentor at the moment! Staying at Bayview University was nothing short of embarrassing!


    Suddenly, Quincy remembered that Calista was about to take herbined master''s and doctoral program examination. If she wasn''t mistaken, besides the examination, the students were also required to independently concoct a medicine to demonstrate their medical aptitude. Many could only manage to improve existing medicine, but Calista was different. She was exceptionally talented in medical research and was sure to present her own findings. If she could just get her hands on that, she would be guaranteed to be able to find a mentor.


    At that moment, the Yost family was steeped in an atmosphere of gloom and despair.


    "In other words, Kallum realized you''ve been deceiving him for nearly a decade! Mirabelle! Why didn''t you learn to swim?"


    George sternly questioned while Mirabelle cried her heart out.


    "I did learn! I really did, but I didn''t learn for very long. That pool was so deep, and Mr. Kallum was so intimidating! I was scared..."


    Her mother couldn''t bear to watch anymore. Holding Mirabelle, she choked out, "What do we do now? Are we really going to send our daughter to prison? What kind of future would she have? Don''t forget, she''s a celebrity. If she goes to prison, her life will be ruined! George, you have to think of something!"


    "What else can she do besides crying? How many times have I told her not to act impulsively? Look at what she''s done! How could she threw a rock at someone else! If that had hit them in the head, there would be no need for prison, it''d be a death sentence!" George said indignantly.


    "What do we do now, George? I don''t care! My daughter can''t go to prison, can''t we find someone to take her ce?" Mirabelle''s mother clung tightly to her, as if afraid someone might snatch her away.


    "There''s no other way! Either Calista willingly drops the case, or we find a way quell Kallum''s anger! There''s simply no other solution!"


    At this point, Mirabelle was seized by fear. She hurriedly said, "I''ll beg Calista! I''ll kneel and plead with her! I don''t want to go to jail. If I''m sent there, I might as well be dead!"


    Naturally, George didn''t want Mirabelle to end up in jail. So, in a serious tone, he said, "The court officials will be here soon. I''ll find a way to stall them. Mirabelle, go to school and talk to Calista. As long as she doesn''t press charges, you''ll be fine!"


    Mirabelle hastily wiped away her tears, quicklyposed herself, and went off to school. However, deep down, her resentment toward Calista had reached its peak!


    The Yost family had always been affiliated to the Fairchild family. In terms of rtions, they were far more connected than the Stafford family! She felt that she didn''t deserve any of this.


    When it came to status, the Yost family was also leagues ahead of the Stafford family!


    Why should she, a youngdy from the Yost family, have to plead with Calista?


    Mirabelle disyed a crazed expression. "Calista, oh Calista, you better behave! Otherwise, if I have to go to jail, I won''t make things easy for your family!"


    Since the exams were just around the corner, Calista spent her


    lunchtime engrossed in her books.


    As for the incident that happened


    T


    the previous night, Kallum had assured her that he would take care of it. She naturally treated it as if it never happened, after all, the exams were her current priority.


    Although she possessed advanced knowledge, the fact that she hadn''tpleted her university education in her previous life was a lingering pain in her heart.


    Moreover, there were many gaps in


    the knowledge she had acquired, which required foundational


    information to fill. At times, she even needed guidance from a mentor Hence she had to continuously pursue higher learning to further improve herself and to avoid squandering her talent and gifts.


    "Calista! Calista, Mirabelle announced in the square that she''s looking for you!"


    Calista finished off thest bite of her meal, and immediately, a servant sent by the Fairchild family came to clear it away.


    Feeling intrigued that Mirabelle had sought her out, Calista rose and headed outside.


    "Calista, be careful," warned her female ssmate, noticing Calista''s nonchnt expression. "I have a feeling she might be up to no good!"


    The gossip of Mirabelle crying wolf and using her of being a homewrecker previously had already spread like wildfire throughout the school!


    It was then that everyone found out


    that Calista was also a wealthy youngdy. They had always liked her for her modesty and diligence, so at this moment, seeing that Mirabelle had came prepared, they kindly warned her.


    Calista rarely conversed with strangers, as she was inherently quite reclusive. However, she did acknowledge their kindness.


    "Thank you," Calista said, somewhat unustomed.


    "No worries!" The girl''s eyes were firmly fixed on Calista''s delicate face. "My name is Tabitha! Can we be friends?"


    Calista paused in her stride. The mention of friends brought Mirabelle to mind. However, she was no longer the naive girl she used to be. She had learned how to read people.


    This Tabitha, at first nce, was clearly a simple and straightforward girl. Her eyes shone brightly as she looked at her, harboring no ill will.


    What she didn''t know was that Tabitha''s sparkling eyes were filled with infatuation! She used to be too shy to converse with Calista, but now that she could, she was beyond thrilled. It was such a refreshing change!

 Chapter 145 Public Rage

    "Friend?" Calista''s voice slightly rose in pitch.


    "Exactly, friends!" Tabitha looked at her with anticipation, almost ready to reach out to her!


    "All right, my friend." Calista slightly curved her lips, leaving behind an incredibly captivating smile. Tabitha was instantly entranced! Shepletely forgot what she had just said, and by the time she regained her senses, Calista was nowhere to be found. The square was already teeming with people, all because Mirabelle was kneeling on the ground!


    She truly was a smart woman, understanding that if she failed to put in enough effort this time around, she would really have to serve jail time.


    She kept her head lowered, seemingly oblivious to the whispers and pointed fingers around her. Her long, white dress spread out on the ground, and her lengthy curls hung down, giving her an air of fragility and eliciting pity from those around her.


    In front of her, a fewrge characters were written. "Calista, I''m sorry. Please forgive me!"


    "Who in the world is this Calista, to have driven Mirabelle to such extremes!"


    "It''s rather pitiful, forcing a girl to kneel in public. How can one face themselves after this?" "Mirabelle was quite a nice girl, she must have offended someone really important..."


    Those in the know, were off to the side, discussing.


    "You all don''t know Calista? You''ve heard of the Fairchild family, haven''t you?"


    Someone nodded, indicating that their family background was quite decent.


    The individual continued, "Calista,st night, became the goddaughter of the Fairchild family! Mirabelle had offended her..."


    It was clear that this person was deliberately misleading the public, and it wasn''t hard to discern who was pulling the strings.


    "What? The goddaughter of the Fairchild family? This Calista really knows her stuff, she soar to a whole new level just like that!" Someone said with a hint of envy.


    Yet, others sneered. "How could she humiliate others right after gaining such power? This Calista is truly petty."


    "Exactly, we''re all women here, why should we make things hard for each other? Just because of a minor offence, they actually made her kneel in the school square. That''s way too harsh! Can''t we just talk things out?"


    "Exactly! Who doesn''t make mistakes? Yet they just wouldn''t let it go!"


    From the moment Calista arrived, this was all she heard. Mirabelle had perfectly yed the role of the victim. Coupled with her attractive appearance, she had stirred in many a desire to protect her. So even when Mirabelle made mistakes, it ended up seeming as if Calista was the one in the wrong for not forgiving her.


    It was rather amusing to see how Mirabelle was trying to outsmart her even though she hade to ask for her forgiveness.


    "Calista is here!" Someone in the crowd shouted, and instantly, a path was cleared. With aposed demeanor, Calista strolled in.


    She arched her eyebrows slightly,


    finding the intense scrutiny from the


    crowd rather amusing. These


    students at most in theirte


    twenties, were quite naive due their limited exposure to the real


    world. They were being an armchair


    critic.


    But it didn''t matter. She had never cared about what others thought of her in her entire life. All she cared about was what made her happy.


    So, she yfully gazed at Mirabelle''s face and asked, "Are you looking for me?"


    Only then did Mirabelle lift her head, her gaze pitiful and evasive, as if merely seeing Calista filled her with fear, her body trembling slightly.


    Her demeanor gave off an impression of Calista bullying others with her power. Many people shot Calista hostile nces, seemingly ming her for such unjust treatment of others.


    Seeing that Calista remained silent, looking at her with disdain, Mirabelle finally couldn''t hold back and spoke first.


    "I''m sorry... I''m so sorry, Callie, I didn''t mean to hurt you. Seeing you at school today, it''s clear that your injuries weren''t severe. Can you please forgive me, and not send me to jail? I''m willing topensate, no matter the cost!"


    Calista squinted her eyes. Originally,


    Kallum had forbidden her from


    insisted. Despite the injury on her et


    back, she didn''t show any sign of difort. However, Mirabelle made it sound like she was making a mountain out of a molehill.


    Before Calista could even utter a word, someone who stood for "kindness and justice" beside her couldn''t bear it anymore.


    A girl went over and tried to help


    ???


    Mirabelle up as she spoke to Calista indignantly Enough! What''s the point in humiliating someone like this? I see you''re perfectly fine, is it really necessary to insist on sending someone to jail? She''s just a girl, if she goes to jail, what future will she have?" Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Mirabelle, however, seemed frightened. She declined any help as her tears fell, her demeanor appearing utterly distraught.


    "No, no! I won''t get up! If Callie doesn''t forgive me, I can''t get up! I refuse to go to jail!"


    Mirabelle pushed away the girl who was trying to help her up. With tear-filled eyes, she looked at Calista, even inching toward her on her knees.


    "Callie! Please, I beg you, I didn''t do it on purpose, can you let me off the hook? I promise, I won''t show up in front of Mr. Kallum ever again. Please, let me off the hook."


    Her words wereced with intrigue. Some of the students that came from prestigious families knew who Mr. Kallum exactly was and had already concocted an borate drama of two women vying for the same man in their minds! The actions of Calista, who was unreasonable and unforgiving, were even more contemptible.


    Many people couldn''t bear to watch anymore. How could she bully others like this?


    "Calista! If you''re fine, why are you being so overbearing?"


    Suddenly, a protector of Mirabelle bolted out, positioning himself between her and Calista. He red fiercely at Calista, as if she hadmitted an act so heinous that it would offend both mortals and gods alike.

 Chapter 146 Mirabelle Acknowledges Her Mistakes

    "Me? Overbearing?"


    Calista seemed to have figured out Mirabelle''s intentions. She had shown weakness in front of everyone, forcing her into a position where she had no choice but to forgive her. If she didn''t, she would face the condemnation of the crowd. Most people couldn''t withstand such pressure and would choose to forgive, right? It had to be said, Mirabelle had yed her cards well.


    It simply didn''t work on her.


    With a slight curve of his lips, Calista nced at the crowd. "Do you all also think I am being unreasonable and unforgiving?"


    Although the crowd didn''t voice their thoughts, their nces were filled with dissatisfaction toward Calista!


    Calista couldn''t help butugh. She was beautiful, and herughter was breathtaking. Some who were obsessed with looks found themselves quieting down, suddenly realizing that with such beauty, she could be forgiven for just about anything! Afterughing, Calista nodded resolutely and confirmed in a clear, calm voice. "That''s right, I am indeed unreasonable and unforgiving!"


    Everyone was taken aback. Calista slightly lifted her chin and asked calmly, "I am in the right. If I let her off, it''s my kindness. If I don''t, it''s my pleasure! Since she dared to harm me, why can''t I retaliate? Does an apology make it as if nothing had happened?"Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    It had to be said, Calista made a valid point. Many of the more rational students quietly agreed with her. After all, just because someone yed the victim, did it mean they deserved sympathy when they were the ones who messed up in the first ce? Yet, in this world, there always existed some people who were blindly self-righteous, convinced of their own goodness. They had a penchant for doing foolish things, much like Mirabelle''s self-appointed knight in shining armor.


    He gave Calista a baffling look. "Aren''t girls supposed to be kind-hearted? Why are you being so spiteful? Mirabelle has already agreed topensate you, you could have epted that and moved on! Why push things to the extreme? Why insist on sending her to jail? Don''t you understand the consequences of her going to jail?"


    Calista sneered. "Imprisoning her is my prerogative. Why did I have such a right? Because she tried to kill me with a stone. Though she didn''t seed, her intentions were extremely malicious, hence she deserved to be punished. If everyone were like you, not knowing how to stand up for their own rights, and everyone were like her, thinking an attempted murder could be resolved with just an apology, then what would be the point of havingws? To restrain the good and indulge the bad?"


    Calista''s high intelligence naturally endowed her with quick wit. Even when she was in the wrong, she could still argue her way to a draw. So, imagine what she could do when she was in the right?


    As everyone watched, the naive boy''s cheeks flushed crimson from Calista''s words. The crowd around them seemed terrified by Mirabelle''s actions and began to sympathize more with Calista. With gritted teeth, Mirabelle surprisingly pushed the boy aside and kowtow to Calista!


    "Callie! I have no intention to evade me! I was so furious that I acted impulsively and made a mistake. But a mistake is a mistake! I sincerely apologize to you. If you don''t forgive me, I''ll stay here forever!"


    As she spoke, she also made a fierce move. She kowtow to Calista once more, and she didn''t stop. It was a sight that left one speechless!


    "Callie! I''m sorry! If you forgive me, I''m willing topensate you with ten million, and I promise to never show my face in front of you ever again!"


    She kowtowed as she spoke. "I''m sorry! Please forgive me! I beg you!"


    Kneeling was not an umon sight, everyone had seen it at some point. But kowtowing, that was intense. Most people couldn''t bear to do it. To go to such lengths, she must have truly been remorseful, right? As Mirabelle continued to bow and apologize, many onlookers couldn''t help but sympathize with her.


    If it were up to them, they would have forgiven her by now. After all, she seemed genuinely remorseful and Calista didn''t appear to have suffered much.


    Seeing this, some of Mirabelle''s close friends were absolutely livid. They felt humiliated seeing Mirabelle embarrassing herself in public.


    And so, they rushed out and grabbed Mirabelle, forbidding her from kowtowing any further!


    "Mirabelle! Why do you insist on tormenting yourself like this! It''s better to be in jail than to suffer her humiliations! Besides, if the judge sees your sincere remorse, he''l surely show you some leniency!"


    They were all oblivious to the truth. If it hadn''t been for Kallum, Mirabelle wouldn''t have had to resort to such measures. She would have plenty of alternatives at her disposal. Even if imprisonment was inevitable, she could have arranged for a stand-in.


    However, once Kallum got involved and wanted Mirabelle to be imprisoned, it was as good as done! Otherwise, Mirabelle would never humiliate herself like that. "No... You don''t understand... I truly realize my mistake, let me do this, it''ll make me feel a bit better!" Mirabelle pushed the girls away, her expression full of genuine remorse! "As long as Callie is willing to forgive me, anything goes!"


    After she finished speaking, she truly let go of all her reservations and continued to kowtow.


    But did she truly harbor such a strong sense of righteousness in her heart?


    Mirabelle''s mouth was nearly bleeding from biting down so hard! With every kowtow, she was inwardly cursing like a madwoman!


    Very good, Calista. How dare you


    push me to such limits? In the future, I n on sending you off to the poorest country to live the life of a lowly courtesan. I''ll even make sure you''re addicted to a potent drug! You''ll spend the rest of your life groveling at my feet like a dog! I wish for your family''s downfall! I want you to spend your entire life toyed with by a bunch of filthy men! To endure a lifetime of humiliation and trampling!


    With every bow she made, the resentment and curses within her deepened! By the end, a sickly smile surfaced on her face, and her forehead was bruised and bleeding.

 Chapter 147 A Dollar For The Performance

    Just by looking into her eyes, Calista could decipher her intentions. However, those around them were oblivious. Mirabelle had gone to such lengths that she had already won over the goodwill of most people. "That''s enough. Calista... I think she''s rather pitiful," a ssmate whispered to Calista. Despite Calista''s tendency to keep to herself, she always thought of her as kind-hearted and believed she would let Mirabelle off the hook. Others also spoke in a rtively fair manner.


    "I think it''s enough too. She''s been humbling herself so much, she must have learned her lesson by now."


    Others chimed in. "Yeah, yeah, let''s just forgive her! Make her pay a hefty sum, we''re still ssmates after all."


    The chorus of voices grew louder and louder. An ordinary person would have buckled under such pressure and called it quits. But not Calista. She watched as Mirabelle prostrated herself, her heart remaining utterly unperturbed.


    Back then, when she contracted the K Virus, she sought to save herself. Eventually, Mirabelle, in her "kindness", willingly took her in. Overwhelmed with gratitude, she revealed the truth to Mirabelle. She admitted to being infected with the virus, but assured her that it was not contagious and there was no need to be afraid.


    However, Mirabelle betrayed her in the blink of an eye!


    On her first day at the research institute, Mirabelle came to see her. At that time, she had no idea that it was Mirabelle who had spilled the secret to Quincy. She was caught off guard, even kneeling down to plead with Mirabelle to save her just this once!


    Back then, Mirabelle had revealed the truth to her with augh. She looked down on her, a person who had already been condemned, with the air of a victor, and spoke with a sense of triumph.


    "If you''re to me anyone, me your own foolishness. Who do you think I am? Do you really think you''re worthy of being my friend? If it weren''t for the Fairchild family, you would have been dead by my hands long ago! You despicable fool!"


    The surrounding noise grew louder and louder! Apart from discussions about Calista''s cold-heartedness, there were also pleas for Calista to forgive Mirabelle. Given Calista''s status, the school didn''t intervene in the matter. However, they did send a teacher to speak to Calista, hoping that she wouldn''t create an uncontroble scene at school and that any issues should be dealt with at home.


    Only then, with a bewildered expression, did Calista nod. She then proceeded toward Mirabelle.


    At that moment, Mirabelle''s heart was filled with an intense hatred! However, upon seeing Calista, she still managed to show a hopeful expression, her humility reaching its peak.


    She had thought that Calista came to help her up and then tell her that she had forgiven her. Not only Mirabelle, but everyone else thought the same.


    Instead of reaching out to help her up, Calista bent over and gently lifted Mirabelle''s chin.


    Mirabelle was taken aback, inadvertently catching the gaze of Calista.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The look in Calista''s eyes was subtle. It wasn''t hate, nor happiness or anger. It was a mysterious and profound gaze that inexplicably sent shivers down one''s spine.


    In the midst of an inexplicable fear, Mirabelle strived to maintain a hopeful gaze toward her, the sincerity in her eyes was palpable.


    "Callie, h-have you forgiven me?" Her voice had be cautious, almost timid. Was this the first time Mirabelle had ever been so humble in both her past and present life?


    The surroundings fell silent,


    everyone was waiting for Calista to


    forgive Mirabelle. Perhaps there would even be apuse. They were all from the same school, all in their teens or early twenties, how deep could their grudges be? Reconciliation was the best oue.


    Finally, Calista spoke, her voice still maintaining that steady andposed indifference.


    "I will never forgive someone who tried to kill me, let alone give them another chance to harm me. If you wish to continue pestering me, go ahead. But I have exams to prepare for, so I won''t entertain you any longer." The surroundings erupted into an uproar!


    Meanwhile, Calista had already straightened up and pulled a handkerchief from her pocket. She looked down at the stunned Mirabelle and smiled.


    "In truth, I just came to see you grovel, and wasn''t disappointed. Witnessing you grit your teeth as you pleaded with me, the hatred in your eyes as you kowtowed to me, it was incredibly satisfying, it lifted my spirits."


    "Thank you for your captivating performance. Here''s a dor as a token of appreciation for all the effort you''ve put in, a reward for your humble appeal."


    As she spoke, she really did pull out a coin and tossed it on the ground, then turned and walked away.


    She had barely taken a few steps when Mirabelle coughed up blood! This was no act, she was genuinely so upset that she coughed up blood.


    Everyone around was startled, they quickly surrounded her, intending to take her to the hospital. However, Calista didn''t look back as she sauntered away.


    Mirabelle red resentfully at the retreating figure of Calista. Her intense hatred was so palpable that it sent shivers down the spine of those who were escorting her.


    "Calista! Calista!"


    She shouted her name through clenched teeth!


    "Calista! I wish you were dead! Die! Just die!"


    The people around were taken aback by Mirabelle''s demeanor, getting the vague sense that she wasn''t as sincere as she had just appeared to be. However, given the gravity of the situation, they decided it was best to get her to the hospital first.


    As for Calista, she never looked back, her face seemed to carry a rxed smile, as if she truly enjoyed the performance.


    She didn''t care about what others thought of her. As long as Mirabelle was displeased, she was pleased. She didn''t care about what others think of her.


    At that moment, she spotted Tabitha.


    Calista''s smile momentarily froze before she continued on her way, only to be stopped by Tabitha.


    "What''s this? Are you here to lecture me? Do you think I''m ruthless too?" Calista raised an eyebrow.


    "N-No... It''s not that!" Under the overwhelming aura of Calista, Tabitha''s cheeks turned beet red, struggling to articte her words. Yet, her eyes remained sparky and in awe!

 Chapter 148 Jealous Kallum

    Upon seeing her gaze, Calista couldn''t help but soften her demeanor.


    "Take your time, what is it that you want to say?"


    Calista had already braced herself for a lecture. She knew that after what she had just done, it wouldn''t be long before the school would call her in for a talk.


    Unexpectedly, Tabitha suddenly eximed, "You''re so suave!"


    ""Hmm?" Calista was a bit slow to react.


    "You were so suave! You actually managed to infuriate someone to the point of spitting blood!" Tabitha mustered up the courage to voice out, her tone filled with immense satisfaction!


    "I knew Mirabelle was no good. She even tried to frame youst time, so this apology surely isn''t sincere! But you, you''re so suave! Well done!"


    Suddenly affirmed in such a manner, Calista found it somewhat awkward and at a loss of how to respond.


    Yet, Tabitha approached cautiously and said, "Are you worried? Rx! We are friends! I will help you! Did you know? My brother is quite wealthy now. If Mirabelle dares to bully you in the future, I will surely stand up for you!"


    Her newly-made friend grew bolder with each word, and in the end, she even held Calista''s arms.


    However, due to Tabitha''s petite stature, holding hands with Calista gave Calista a feeling akin to being a man, which was quite unfamiliar. Regardless, she didn''t push her away.


    After all, she was her friend.


    Calista was somewhat dazed to find out that someone out there actually wanted to be friends with her.


    What she didn''t realize was that there was indeed arge group of people who were taken aback by her previous nonchnt remarks that were so infuriating it could make one spit blood! The whole afternoon was filled with people discussing this matter. When school ended, Calista was still feeling a bit out of sorts. How should she put it? To her, Tabitha was just a bit too noisy...


    Moreover, whenever she spoke, she would often fix her gaze on Calista''s face, which, for the first time, made her feel a bit embarrassed. "Come over to my ce! You''re so good at your studies, you could tutor me! I really like you, would it be okay if you came over for dinner?" Calista wore an expression of difort. She wasn''t one for social visits, and she always felt a bit uneasy when interacting with strangers. However, Calista underestimated Tabitha''s ability to act charmingly. In the end, she had no choice but to call Kallum.


    At that moment, Kallum was in the middle of a video conference, and it was a crucial point in the meeting when his phone suddenly rang. Upon seeing it was Calista, Kallum quirked his lips and made a pausing gesture.


    "What''s wrong?"


    At this hour, Callie should have been almost done with her ss, why would she call?


    Feeling a bit embarrassed, Calista said, "I might being home a littlete tonight."


    Kallum was taken aback, the smile on his face vanished.


    Calista''s life was so monotonous that it was almost as if she was living on a straight line, punctually doing everything on schedule. This was the first time she had ever mentioneding homete.


    "What happened?" Although Kallum


    desperately wanted Calista toe back immediately, he knew he couldn''t do so. Calista also needed her personal space. It was just that he found it hard to ept that there would be one more thing in her world, which would inevitably divert her attention from him.


    "It''s not a big deal," Calista said nonchntly. "I made a friend and went to her house to hang out."


    "Friend?" Kallum couldn''t help but raise his voice.


    "Mmm..." At that moment, a cheerful female voice came from across the room. "Callie, aren''t you done yet? Is it your dad? Want me to talk to him?"


    Being regarded as a father, Kallum


    felt rather stifted. However, learning that it was a girl, his mood improved significantly. Still, he wasn''t happy Callie had a friend now. Although this was perfectly normal, he couldn''t help but feel annoyed. He despised anyone who attempted to monopolize her.


    Kallum''s brows were tightly furrowed, but in the end, he spoke in a surprisingly light-hearted tone.


    "All right, enjoy yourself. When you''re ready toe back, give me a call. I''ll arrange for someone to pick you up. Also, Ryder is there too, I''ve asked him to apany you."


    "No need, it''s a bit over the top to bring someone along. I''ll probably... juste back after dinner, so don''t worry!"


    "Okay."


    It seemed as though Kallum wanted to say something more, but Calista had already ended the call.


    Kallum held his phone, lost in thought. Ultimately, he decided to suppress his intense desire to have her all to himself, allowing Calista to have her own personal space.


    After all, she was still so young, she should make more friends. Before this, Callie was too withdrawn, having a friend would be good... right?


    No!


    Kallum furrowed his brows! He suppressed a thought that was on the verge of bursting forth, hastily ending the meeting. Fortunately, everything that needed to be said had been said. He had more important matters to attend to! "Ryder."


    Kallum made a call, "Who approached Callie? What''s their agenda?"


    Ryder suddenly felt the urge to wipe away sweat, even though he had smartly prepped himself for this beforehand.


    "Mr. Kallum, it''s the youngest daughter of the Fisher family we''re talking about, the very same Fisher family that built their fortune on cosmetics. Across the nation, they''re recognized as a reputable and influential household."Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    In the depths of Kallum''s mind,


    numerous schemes and plots were


    constantly at y. When dealing with outsiders, Kallum never


    hesitated to assume the worst of their intentions, as a precaution against any potential deceit or treachery. After all, time was money, and he simply didn''t have the luxury to engage in games with others.


    "Get me a copy of the Fisher family''s information, then head over and wait at their ce. Callie is still injured, if she''s in there for more than two hours, storm in with the team!"

 Chapter 149 A Kiss To Alleviate The Pain

    After giving it some thought, he decided it wouldn''t be appropriate. "I''lle overter as well," he said.T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Ryder was taken aback. Kallum was leaving the house? All because his wife made a female friend?


    After stepping into the Fisher family home, Calista felt uneasy due to the overwhelming enthusiasm of the family. Unlike other affluent households, their home had hardly any servants. The family was harmonious and joyous, an image of perfect harmony at first nce. Sensing their goodwill, Calista gradually rxed, although her face betrayed no sign of it. Tabitha''s parents quietly nodded in approval, impressed by Calista''s poise and refinement. It was clear to them that she was a good child.


    After casually asking a few questions, they began their meal. Tabitha''s siblings weren''t home, so there weren''t many people around the dining table.


    Tabitha didn''t know who Calista was, but her parents certainly did. Calista had just be the goddaughter of the Fairchild family, and it seemed like she was quite favored by Kallum. She appeared to be knowledgeable and well-mannered, someone worth befriending. So, Tabitha''s mother said to Tabitha with a smile, "Tabitha, you should really get along well with Callie in the future. Look at her, she''s the same age as you and her grades are so good. You should take a leaf out of her book, understand?" Whenever the topic of studying came up, Tabitha''s face fell. She muttered, "Got it..."


    Then she turned to Calista and said, "Callie, you must visit more often. My son isn''t here today, but I can introduce you to him some other time. He was also very interested in pursuing a career in medical research back then. I''m sure you two will find a lot to talk about..." This tant matchmaking attempt left Calista feeling somewhat embarrassed.


    Upon seeing this, the man hastily tugged at his wife. "What nonsense are you spouting? You always do this, you''ve scared Tabitha''s friend. Tabitha will definitely me you for this!"


    Tabitha wore a baffled expression as she lifted her head. "What did mom just say?"


    Quickly, Calista said, "I''ll definitely be visiting frequently in the future, I hope it won''t be too much of a bother."


    "No, not at all, you are very much wee here..."


    In short, the meal was thoroughly enjoyed by all present.


    Adjusting to the new surroundings was a challenge, so Calista took her leave early. Her impression of Tabitha was rather favorable, so she sincerely expressed her intention to visit again. Despite the offer from the Fisher family to provide a car ride home, she politely declined.


    After stepping out, she let out a long sigh of relief.


    Night had already fallen, with the sky sprinkled with countless stars. The faint scent of osmanthus flowers wafted through the air, bringing a sense of pleasure and contentment to one''s heart.


    Unexpectedly, when she emerged, Ryder also appeared. He nced at the time, over an hour had passed, and he let out a sigh of relief.


    "Ms. Calista, let''s head home. Mr. Kallum is waiting for you in the car."


    Calista was startled. "Kallum came?"


    She got into the car, startled, and indeed it was Kallum. He had set aside the documents from the Fisher family and spoke with a serious tone. "Because you''ve just be a member of the Fairchild family, people have be so


    sol


    enthusiastic. It worried mos


    came out."


    His words stirred something within Calista, but her typically stoic expression gave nothing away.


    However, Kallum was able to notice that her gaze had softened considerably, which made him smile with delight.


    On the way back, Calista and Kallum


    found themselves alone due to the


    separation of the carriage


    forgotten that she had once stolen a


    kiss from him in the car...


    It was...


    "How''s your illness? How do you feel about the recent treatments?"


    Of course, Calista knew that results wouldn''te about so quickly. Without a live test subject like herself, the research was bound to encounter some twists and turns. Upon hearing this, Kallum responded in a deep voice, "It''s fine, but what about you? Won''t it be too strenuous to give me acupuncture every three days? You''ve been injured again." Calista shook her head. "I''m fine."


    Seeing that Kaiser''s lips had turned somewhat pale, Calista couldn''t help but ask, "Does it hurt a lot?"


    She remembered clearly, though she was an asymptomatic carrier of the virus, she was not spared from theplications associated with the K Virus. The pain was deeply etched in her memory. The more she took medication and underwent treatment, the more pain she felt internally! She remembered in theter stages, even a slighttouch from others felt like a knife was being twisted into her. All this time, she had actually forgotten about finding a way to alleviate Kallum''s pain.


    Kallum hadn''t expected Calista to notice. He initially wanted to im that he wasn''t in pain, but for some reason, he yearned to see a look of concern on Calista''s face. Thus, he subtly furrowed his brows. "A bit, but it''s within the realm of endurance."


    Just as she had predicted, it was painful! A hint of frustration appeared on her cold, indifferent face.


    "I''ll figure out a way to get you some pain relief medication once we get back. Let''s put it this way, the pain will only get worse. Without it, I''m afraid you won''t be able to endure the subsequent treatments."


    A warmth spread through Kallum''s heart, his Callie was indeed someone with a cool exterior but a warm heart.


    His gaze was intensely fixed on Calista, and even in the dimly lit room, his silhouette was still breathtaking.


    "I still remember thest time you got hurt, the injury was on your chest. I wanted to give you an anesthetic, but you refused."


    Calista gave him a peculiar look, curious as to why he had brought up the subject.


    With a gentleugh, Kallum''s eyes sparkled brightly. "You said back then, a kiss from you would take the pain away. So, if you''re willing to give me a kiss, I might feel a bit better."


    After Kallum finished speaking, he held his breath, watching for Calista''s reaction. He noticed Calista suddenly became guarded, seemingly showing signs of resistance. This, however, was something he had anticipated.

 Chapter 150 Craving

    As Kallum suppressed the bitterness in his eyes, he slightly curled his lips and said, "Don''t worry. With my current physical condition, I''m not capable of entertainingplex thoughts. Our deal still stands, so you don''t have to worry about me doing anything to you." He paused for a moment before continuing indifferently, "Perhaps this mindset is a bit unhealthy. When everyone else is avoiding me, I find myself particrly longing for someone who doesn''t mind my condition and woulde close to me." Upon hearing this, Calista''s wary expression gradually eased.


    She hadn''t expected that Kallum, who had always appeared soposed about life and death, would have such a vulnerable side. However, recalling the warnings from the experts and their repeated suggestions for Kallum to move to a secluded mountainous region for aprehensive treatment, Calista began to understand his mentality a bit more...


    Kallum was unfortunate because he contracted K Virus. Yet, he was also lucky. Each inhibitor cost over 20 thousand, and he had to take an injection each day. His parents had enough power to pull him back from the brink of death and the capability to hire a team of experts to help him. Above all, he was fortunate to meet her, a doctor with an unparalleled understanding of K Virus.


    Had it not been for his luck, he would have long perished in Lostaria as the nation had a strict policy of eradicating any budding danger and allowing no room for unforeseen incidents.


    Smiling, Kallum continued, his voiceced with a hint of indifference, "Because of all of you, I''ve always thought that I might be the first person to survive K Virus. I never thought of giving up. But when I saw certain looks in people''s eyes, I realized I''ve be a freak, haven''t I?"


    Calista shook her head. "No, you''re not. As long as you still have faith, you''re not a freak."


    Kallum scoffed. "Then why won''t you kiss me? Is that so frightening to even touch me?"


    Upon hearing the words, Calista lowered her gaze. Suddenly, she looked up and leaned toward his lips.


    Kallum''s eyes widened slightly. In the dimly lit space, he could see her fluttering eyshes under the glow of the moonlight. A wave of cool fragrance washed over him, making Kallum feel like he was dreaming.


    However, at thest second, he slightly turned his head, allowing Calista''s kiss tond on his cheek instead.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Although he had been consistently taking inhibitors and Shaun had assured him that his saliva and sweat were harmless, he was still fearful. He couldn''t put Calista in danger because of his momentarily uncontrolled desire.


    As her lips brushed the corner of his mouth, Calista paused. Up close, the man before her was strikingly handsome. His finely chiseled features were taut. His gaze was directed elsewhere as if he was holding back something. Suddenly, Calista smiled and mischievously leaned in to lick his earlobe.


    In the quiet car, Kallum''s breathing instantly became rapid. He turned to look at Calista, his gaze seemingly intent on devouring her.


    Calista giggled. "Actually, you''re just craving a woman, aren''t you?"


    She feigned nonchnce as she said, "You''re twenty-three now, which is time when men have the most impulses. Now, not only are your movements limited, but you also can''t be around other people. Must be frustrating, right?" Her nonchnt tone stirred up a hint of anger on Kallum''s face.


    Yes, he did crave for a woman! But he had never yearned for anyone else. From beginning to end, the only one who upied his thoughts was her.


    Yet, she subconsciously evaded everything, attributing his desire for intimacy to mere physical need. Was she really that terrified of him wanting to be with her?


    Did she think he couldn''t survive?


    Did she think their rtionship had


    no future? Or was it that after the blow she had sufferedst time, she hadpletely let go of their. rtionship and vowed never to fall for him again?


    Whatever the reason, Kallum found it uneptable.


    Even if he were to die...


    But if he were to die, why was he still clinging to Calista?


    The surge of anger came quickly but dissipated just as fast. Kallum''s body suddenly rxed as he curved his lips in self-mockery. Calista''s approach was correct. Talking about feelings at this point was futile. He shouldn''t be so impulsive and forget his current situation... The carriage fell silent for a moment. Weary, Kallum leaned back and closed his eyes to rest.


    "Perhaps you''re right," he admitted, "I... I am yearning for a woman."


    The deep, husky voice and


    suggestive words sent shivers down Calista''s spine. She kept her face impassive and tried to focus on staying calm, but in the next


    moment, Kallum asked, "Card hold


    you?"


    "Hmm?" Calista was still processing his request when she was firmly pulled into an embrace. Breathing in her unique fragrance, Kallum smiled, his fatigue instantly vanishing. "Do you know?" Kallum suddenly asked.


    Calista responded with a muffled grunt.


    "After we were intimate, I suddenly found myself interested in you. Coupled with your sincere affection for me, at that time, I was considering fulfilling our marriage agreement." However, his tone suddenly turned cold as he remembered something.


    "But back then, Mirabelle imed that everything was orchestrated by you. She even said that you made those drugs. I didn''t believe her at first, but still decided to investigate. When found out it was indeed you, I was so embarrassed and furious that I took you to the hospital to rectify the situation. My distaste for you only grew after that."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 151 The Same Bed

    Calista remained silent. Nestling in Kallum''s embrace, she widened her eyes, though her gaze was unfocused and nk.


    That night with Kallum felt like it happened in another lifetime. That particr night might have been thrilling, frightening, and joyful, but now, she couldn''t recall anything else aside from the pain. Talking about it seemed pointless.


    Kallum continued, "I''m telling you this not to shirk responsibility or seek forgiveness. I just want to say that I will believe in you from now on. No matter who stands against you, as long as I live, I''ll always be on your side."


    He lowered his head and nted a tender, careful kiss on Calista''s temple. He said bitterly, "I apologize for what I did to you in the past, Callie. You''re a kind-hearted girl, and despite how I treated you before, you never held any grudge against me. I''m truly grateful for that. But now, even if you were to hate me, I don''t wish to hold no ce in your heart."


    He wanted to be her one and only. He wanted to possess her entirely! Even though he knew he shouldn''t, he simply couldn''t restrain himself.


    However, he didn''t receive a response for a long time.


    When he looked down, it turned out that Calista had already fallen asleep!


    Kallum was initially taken aback, but seeing how peacefully she slept in his arms, he couldn''t help but smile.


    "Callie... Callie, what am I to do with you?"


    When Calista woke up the next day, she felt warm and cozy in bed. Unaware, she snuggled further only to realize she was in someone''s arms!


    When she lifted her head, she found herself looking at Kallum''s handsome face. She was momentarily speechless. Kallum, now awake, kept his eyes half-closed. He pulled Calista into his arms, holding her as if she were a cherished doll, before drifting back to sleep. What is going on?


    With a stern expression, Calista jabbed at Kallum and calmly asked, "Why are you in my bed?"


    Only then did Kallum open his eyes. Calista noticed that his dark purple pupils had recently be lighter. When he opened his eyes in the morning light, Calista felt as if she was looking at two pure, purple gemstones, which were both captivating and mesmerizing. "Is it ufortable to sleep like this?" Kallum asked in a hoarse voice.


    Calista froze. That''s not the point! Her bed was right next to his. Moreover, she was supposed to act as his sister. How could they share a bed?


    "Is it ufortable?" he asked again.


    Calista replied coldly, "It isfortable, but..."


    Kallum gently pressed her head down. "Then continue sleeping. No buts. I don''t want to sleep alone anymore. I''m sick and can''t touch you, but we''re sleeping in the same room anyway. What difference does it make whether we share a bed or sleep separately?" That''s not how it works!


    Calista wanted to resist, but she had to admit that Kallum had a point. Everyone knew Kallum wouldn''t do anything to her and had epted the fact that they shared a room. However, that didn''t mean they were obliged to share the same bed!


    Perhaps it was indeed too warm, and Calista was too tired. After a few futile attempts, she gave up struggling. It was true that some people''s temperaments change after falling ill.


    Seeing that Calista had stopped


    struggling and went back to sleep, Kallum let out a slight sigh of relief, Regardless of whether he was using his illness to gain sympathy by pretending to be frail, he hade to a realization. If his days were truly numbered, why not grant himself a few moreforts within the limited time he had?


    Holding Calista''s delicate and fragrant body, he slightly curled up his lower half to avoid her noticing his reaction, lest she be embarrassed and angry. Yet, his eyes were fixated on her sleeping face with deep fascination.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    From then on, he wanted to hold her in his arms every night as they fell asleep. He wanted her to be the first thing he saw when he woke up. Just like this! When Calista woke up and intended to confront Kallum, he was already up. Being ill didn''t mean he could justy around doing nothing. That wouldn''t be him.


    By then, Kallum had already finished an early meeting and was energetically working out in the gym.


    One of theplications of K Virus was brain atrophy. To prevent this, apart from taking arge amount of medication, he also had to exercise a lot. It fact, after falling ill, he was even busier than before. There were several asions when Ss


    offered to share his burden, but


    Kallum had consistently turned him


    down.


    He refused to allow himself to be useless. Even if he were to die the next day, he was determined to live life on his own terms.


    And so, the proud, esteemed, wise, and energetic leader of the Fairchild Group made aeback. Although he was operating remotely, everything ran smoothly. Nobody knew what he was going through, and he didn''t reveal any signs of weariness or weakness. Calista watched from behind the door, suddenly deciding not to confront him about the previous night.


    Now that Kallum was stripped of any pleasures, oppressed by life, tormented by illness, and burdened with heavy responsibilities, it was inevitable that he would be emotionally distressed. If he could find even a sliver of sce in her, so be it. After all, he wouldn''t do anything inappropriate.


    Moreover... didn''t he resemble her so much in her previous life?


    Back then, when she discovered she


    had contracted K Virus as an


    asymptomatic carrier, she didn''t escape the tortures that K Virus inflicted Fearing that brain atrophy would ur, she had even exercised four hours daily. Every day, she was drenched in sweat, all in a desperate attempt to slow down her body''s rapid deterioration.

 Chapter 152 Exams

    However, K Virus caused excruciating pain. Like a relentless tug-of-war, exercise could invigorate the body but the virus was destroying the body. Every step she took was filled with unbearable agony. In the beginning, she would cry while running because she was almost driven to the brink of insanity. When pushed to her limits, she even had the urge to retaliate against the world.


    Kallum... He was stronger than her.


    Calista pursed her lips and turned to go to the school.


    She had exams that day. The first exams were in two major categories. Since Calista was majoring in medical research, she had to take her exams earlier and cover more content than others.


    She was to be tested in the subcategories "Pharmacology" and "Pharmaceutics" that day. The sheer number of subjects meant that she would be taking exams from after the first ss in the morning until the evening.


    After the first ss ended, Calista headed off to prepare for her exams. Upon hearing that she had six tests to take that day, Tabitha eximed dramatically, "Callie, I thought everyone in thebined master''s and doctoral program had the same exams. I didn''t realize you had to take so many more tests than everyone else!"


    Calista exined, "Everyone in thebined master''s and doctorate program attends the same lectures. However, there are dedicated tutors for one-on-one guidance. As long as you pass the subjects, you can choose your tutor based on your performance. I''ve enrolled in all the subjects under medical research, so I have more exams to take. But if I pass them all, I can have Professor Wainwright as my tutor!"


    Tabitha was astounded. "All... All subjects? There are eight or nine subjects in total for medical research, right? Are you sure you want to do this? How... How does your brain even work?"


    Tabitha''s voice was rather loud, drawing the curious nces of some students who hadn''t left after ss. They were just ordinary university students, unlike Calista who was not only skipping grades but also majoring in all subjects of medical research. They were simply not in the same league.


    However, most people admired Calista. They believed that anyone with such ambition was either extraordinarily intelligent or remarkably brave.


    "All right, I''m off to take my exams. Wish me luck?"


    "Absolutely! Good luck! You''re definitely the best!" Tabitha said, giving a firm thumbs up.


    Calista chuckled and suddenly remembered something.


    She handed an item to Tabitha and said, "Since I have several exams to rush to today, I''d appreciate it if you could hand in this research assignment for me to Professor Lawson. He''ll know it once he hears my name."


    This was the first time Calista had ever asked someone for a favor. ttered that Calista would ask her, Tabitha clutched the documents close to her chest.


    "Don''t worry! You can count on me!"


    Calista nodded, her demeanor rxed as she headed off to the examination hall.


    After several consecutive exams, it was already dark. At the school gate, some of Calista''s fellow examinees, who had heard of her reputation as a top student, came over to ask for help. One of them discovered that his answer to a question differed from Calista''s and couldn''t help but groan, "I definitely got it wrong!"


    A faint smile surfaced on Calista''s indifferent face. "Are you so certain that I got it right and you got it wrong?"


    Somewhat embarrassed, the guy darted his gaze around and avoided eye contact with her. In a low voice, he admitted, "Of course I got it wrong. Everyone in school knows how smart you are..."


    No one disliked being


    Puzzled, she let out a haughtyugh and directly asked, "By the way, have you heard about what happened with Mirabelle? I thought you''d all hate me for that. Why are more people approaching me recently?"


    The guy''s face turned red as he stammered, "Actually, I was there that day... At first, I also thought you were a bit harsh, but those who took Mirabelle to the hospital imed that she was cursing you the whole way and saying really awful things... So we figured she wasn''t sincere about her apology. We don''t know the details, but you are the one involved. Perhaps your actions are justified."


    More importantly, Calista had been incredibly impressive that day. Her striking appearance, sharp argument, and the way she nonchntly caused the person she hated spit blood in anger had left many people excited. He was one of them. "Is that so?" Calista was somewhat skeptical, but the nces directed at her held no malice, so she didn''t probe further.


    At that moment, a car was parked not far from the school gate. The interior of the car was filled with tension so thick it seemed ready to explode at the slightest spark.


    "Mr. Kallum... Should I call for Ms. Calista?"


    Quintus felt deeply troubled, wondering why he always ended up in such situations.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum remained silent, his brooding eyes fixated on the scene outside the window. As he watched Calistaughing and talking with another man, he felt as if he was soaked in a vat of jealousy.


    What was so special about that barely mature guy who didn''t look like he could grow a full beard yet? How could the boys at school possiblypare to him? He was the best. He had always been! His hands clenched tightly, but patience was not in Kallum''s nature. He stepped out of the car and strode toward Calista.

 Chapter 153 Happy Days

    The boy was engrossed in a conversation with someone he admired when he suddenly noticed a man approaching aggressively from behind Calista. It felt as though he had been doused with cold water. Under the man''s gaze, he found himself at a loss for words. "What''s wrong?" Before Calista could turn around, she was embraced from behind by a pair of arms.


    "Darling, is this your ssmate?" Kallum shed a toothy grin, which was so unnerving that it made the guy''s skin crawl.


    Darling?


    Calista inexplicably felt as if she was caught in the act of adultery. Moreover, with the arm around her waist tightening, she didn''t want to make a scene in front of others.


    "Why are you here?" Calista was very surprised.


    Seeing this scene, the boy turned pale. Was this man actually Calista''s boyfriend?


    It made sense that someone as remarkable as Calista had a boyfriend. Even though the man standing next to her seemed older, there was no denying they looked perfect together.


    "I... I''m Calista''s ssmate. Nice to meet you..." the guy stuttered under Kallum''s seemingly easygoing but actually stern gaze. Finally, he sighed and added, "I won''t bother you then, Calista... see you around." Calista nodded stiffly. "Yeah, see you around."


    After the others left, Calista struggled to get free from Kallum''s grip. "What are you doing? Who are you calling ''Darling?'' You''re supposed to be my brother."Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum smirked as he stared at her face. He found the sight of her being annoyed extremely cute.


    "I didn''t say anything wrong, did I? My dear sister, let''s go home. It''s gettingte. Aren''t you hungry?"


    It was then that Calista realized that she truly was no match for him when it came to being shameless!


    After dinner, as they were getting ready for bed, Kallum once again pushed the boundaries!


    "Where''s the other bed?" Calista raised an eyebrow, wondering why there was only one bed when there used to be two.


    Kallum said earnestly, "The room felt a bit cramped with two beds, so I had one of them moved out."


    Calista stared numbly at the room before her. There could be seven or eight more beds, and it wouldn''t be crowded! How could he be so shameless?


    She protested coldly, "Then I won''t share a room with you anymore. You should let Old Mr. Yancey take the night shift!"


    Kallum calmly responded, "He''s too old for that. It''s not convenient."


    "What about Professor Zeller? He''s quite young!" Calista suggested again.


    Kallum frowned. "All those experts can''t wait to keep their distance from me. Why are you insisting on making things difficult?"


    So there really isn''t a suitable person?


    Calista felt frustrated.


    Kallum said timely, "I won''t do anything to you. Plus, this bed is so big. You can roll around and still not touch me."


    Kallum''s voice dropped as he continued, "Or is it that you actually dislike me? Or are you afraid that I might do something to harm you?" Speechless, Calista was on the verge of arguing her case when she noticed Kallum''s hand trembling and his lips turning pale.


    Every night, the virus within his body


    would be active, causing his pain to double from what he felt during the day. That was why she had arranged to work the night shifts because there might be sudden emergencies at night


    Without exceptional me skills, it


    would be impossible to handle those situations. However, the others were reluctant to take on that duty, so she ended up taking all the night shifts.


    For so long, Kallum had always worn a smile when facing her, so she often overlooked his pain.


    But thinking back to her past life, there were often nights when she couldn''t sleep because of the pain. During those times, she would cradle a doll as tall as a person in her arms as if that could bring somefort. Seeing Calista suddenly fall silent, Kallum became somewhat wary because he didn''t expect her to give in so easily. He had even thought of his next move and was just waiting for Calista to make her move.


    To his surprise, Calista walked over and started drying her hair by the bed.


    "You... You''re okay with this?" For the first time, Kallum was dumbfounded.


    Calista frowned. "Well, aren''t you going toe and blow-dry my hair for me?"


    Beaming, Kallum said, "All right, right away!"


    For the next few days, Calista lived ratherfortably.


    Her happiest moment was probably when Mirabelle was sent to prison!


    Given the Yost family''s sincere apology and their longstanding acquaintance, Wanda softened a bit. In the end, Mirabelle was sentenced to a year and two months in prison for intentionally causing minor injuries to someone. Upon learning this, Calista waspletely indifferent. Mirabelle was a public figure, and once she was sent to prison, she would regret it enough. Even if she were to be released in the future, she wouldn''t be a threat. She would be nothing more than a clown that could be crushed easily.


    Subsequently, Benedict paid Calista


    a visit at school, encouraging her to do well in her exams. Upon learning that Kallum had assigned Gunner to assist Benedict, Calista felt a great sense of relief. Although Yelena''s presence was somewhat irritating, she was too preupied recently to deal with them. However should


    they dare to cross her, she was ready to fight back!


    Calista thought: Moreover, Mirabelle''s fate should serve as a warning to them for a while.


    Soon, the results of the written exams were released, and Calista was undoubtedly the top in the entire department. Moreover, she scored better in the subjects she minored in than those who majored in them. For a moment, Calista was unparalleled in her glory, and everyone was discussing this terrifyingly intelligent genius. Their tones were filled with nothing but envy.


    However, Professor Lawson gave


    her a call at that moment. "Callie,


    why haven''t you submitted your research assignment yet? You need to hurry up. The deadline is


    tomorrow. If it''s not submitted by then it will be marked as zero. No matter how well you did in the written exam, you won''t be able to get into thebined master''s and doctoral program. You need to hurry up!"

 Chapter 154 Stealing My Work

    Calista was taken aback. She had clearly asked Tabitha to deliver it on the very first day of the exam!


    Can it possibly be Tabitha''s doing?


    Calista shook her head. Despite having not known her for long, it was clear that Tabitha was too earnest to engage in such behavior. She then sought out Tabitha with some lingering uncertainty.


    Upon hearing this, Tabitha''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "No, I did hand it in, but..." She suddenly remembered something, her face turning grim.


    "But what?"


    Tabitha lowered her head, speaking somewhat sheepishly. "However, I ran into your sister on my way there. I''ve seen her looking for you before. She mentioned that she was on her way to meet Professor Lawson and offered to take it on my behalf, s-so I gave it to her..." The more Tabitha spoke, the sillier she felt. She was on the verge of bursting into tears.


    "She''s not actually your sister, is she? I was such a fool! I was deceived! What do I do now? Was that a very important thing?"


    Calista closed her eyes, feeling a dull throbbing in her head.


    She had hoped that by making an example out of someone else, Quincy would behave herself. Yet, to her surprise, Quincy still dared to act out. Isn''t she just asking for trouble?


    Tabitha was at a loss, tugging at Calista''s clothes helplessly. "What should we do? How about this? Give me some time, and I''ll definitely find that girl. Yes! I''ll call my brother right away!"


    "No," said Calista, holding Tabitha back. "I already know who it is."


    Seeing the redness in Tabitha''s eyes, which was a clear sign of regret, Calista let out a silent sigh. She gently patted Tabitha''s head. "Don''t worry, it''s okay. I''ll just go to her."


    Tabitha still felt ashamed. "This is all my fault. Please, don''t say anymore. I''ll call my brother. He''ll definitely have a solution."


    Calista held up a hand and spoke candidly. "No, she really is my sister. This is a family matter; I''ll handle it myself."


    Having said that, she suddenlyughed. Her smile was quite captivating.


    "You know... guiding my younger sister is part of my responsibilities as the older sibling."Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Quincy had been feeling rather uneasytely.


    After submitting Calista''s research assignment, she received high praise from the professors. Moreover, the most renowned professor was considering taking her on as a pupil. But only if Calista doesn''t cause any trouble! However, things often did not go as nned. As soon as the ss ended, she saw Calista standing at the door with her arms crossed. The impassive expression on Calista''s face sent a wave of fear through her heart. "Callie, what are you doing here?" Quincy asked weakly.


    Smiling, Calista inched closer toward Quincy. "Me? I''m here to reim what''s mine."


    "What are you talking about? I have no idea what you mean. How long has it been since you''ve been home?" Quincy decided to deny everything. She''d also secretly made a phone call to Yelena.


    Seeing that Quincy refused to admit to it, Calista couldn''t help but sneer. "Think carefully. If anyone dares to steal my work and publish it, I won''t even consider our familial ties or show any mercy. You still have onest chance."


    Calista would not have extended this courtesy to Quincy if they both were not at school, given that Calista did not wish to stir up trouble. In this life and my previous one, she always. covets what''s mine. I assumed burning it would put an end to this, but I never thought Quincy would go as far as to steal my assignment!


    Quincy was beginning to feel a bit frightened because Calista''s status had now changed. Quincy had


    always been the type to bully the et


    weak and fear the strong. She had suffered quite a lot at Calista''s hands, and this time, she was genuinely unsure of herself.


    However, the thought of Benedict made her grit her teeth again.


    "I have no idea what you''re talking about!"


    At that moment, a girl unexpectedly approached, speaking in a tone that dripped with envy.


    "Quincy, there you are! I''ve been looking for you for quite some time. Professor Lockwood wants to see you. He mentioned that he''s particrly interested in your research and would like to have a chat with you!"


    As long as Quincy performed well, she could officially be a pupil of a renowned mentor, which would set her apart from the ordinary students who did not have such tutge.


    However, Quincy appeared ashen. Initially, she had made sure to be well-prepared, even hiring someone to thoroughly research the assignment, ensuring she could answer any question the tutor might ask. But now, Calista was here. "Oh? Professor Lockwood? Interesting. Quincy, how about we go together?"


    "Absolutely not!" yelled Quincy. What if Calista went and caused trouble? Why isn''t Mom here yet? It would be best if she brought Dad along. Calista''s out to get me!


    "Huh? Who are you?" asked the girl who was looking for Quincy.


    Calista smiled gently. "I''m her sister. You said Professor Lockwood is looking for her? I''ll go with her then."


    The girl instinctively nodded, surprised by how attractive Calista was. How have I never noticed her before?


    Upon seeing Calista leaving, seemingly intending to cause trouble, Quincy had no choice but to follow with gritted teeth. As she walked, she dialed Benedict''s number and began to apologize for her mistakes on the way. Emmett was initially waiting for Quincy. When he saw Calista, he was taken aback for a moment, but he quickly recognized her as the school''s prodigy. He couldn''t help but smile.


    "Calista, did you need something from me?"


    Before Calista could say anything, Quincy had already rushed over. "Professor! Professor Lockwood!" Emmett was sitting in the gazebo. As he looked up, he saw Quincy, her eyes red as if she''d been crying.

 Chapter 155 Meeting Professor Lockwood

    "What''s going on?" Emmett naturally knew who Quincy was, given that he was quite intrigued by her research. He believed this youngdy had a knack for medical research and with the right guidance, she could even be a renowned pharmacist. After catching her breath, Quincy smiled and replied, "When I heard you were looking for me, of course I had to hurry over!"


    As she spoke, she yfully batted hershes. It was apparent to everyone else that Quincy had always been a lively and sensible girl. Emmett chortled heartily. "There''s no need to rush! Come here, girl. I called you over because I have a few questions to ask you."


    As he spoke, he nced at Calista, a hint of embarrassment in his eyes. Though he wanted to chat with Calista, Quincy was of greater importance at the moment. He wanted to be Quincy''s mentor, so naturally, he needed to know her thoughts on the matter. Upon seeing the dismissive look in Emmett''s eyes, Calista suddenlyughed. "It''s all right, I''m Quincy''s sister. Feel free to speak your mind, Professor Lockwood. I''m curious to see how much my little sister has grown to have impressed you."


    "Quincy is your sister?" Professor Lockwood only then realized that they both shared a surname. That exins it. It is a rather umonst name.


    Emmett nced at them with a hint of envy. The Staffords had made their fortune through pharmaceuticals, a fact well-known in their industry. Though they had no sons, they had sessfully raised two incredibly talented daughters. The elder daughter was universally admired for her genius, and the younger one was just as gifted. Their good fortune was truly unparalleled.


    Emmett smiled and cordially replied, "All right, Calista. Feel free to stay and listen-"


    Before he could even finish, Quincy interjected sharply. "No way!"


    She anxiously looked at Emmett, her eyes darting over quickly as she hurriedly said, "Professor, although my sister and I are from the same family, our household has a tradition of healthypetition. I don''t want my sister to see my research results, lest she bes jealous!"


    Quincy spoke, her lips puckering in a pout, as though she was yfully petnt and willful. She appeared to be afraid that others might steal her technique.


    It''s perfectly normal for her to feel this way.


    Emmett fell silent, considering that Calista was indeed a renowned genius. If there was discord between the sisters, he really couldn''t unjustifiably reveal his future apprentice''s research secrets.


    "Given the circumstances, Calista..." Emmett nced apologetically at Calista, his intention to dismiss her clear.


    Calista couldn''t believe how thick-skinned Quincy was. Competition within the family? How utterly ridiculous!


    "Don''t worry, Quincy. I have never stolen anyone else''s work. After all, I''m not so shameless. As the saying goes, ''an older sister is like a mother.'' I''m merely here in our father''s ce to observe. I''m well aware of your capabilities." Calista''s pointed words made Emmett feel somewhat awkward. It seemed that the rtionship between these two sisters was indeed fraught with tension.


    At that moment, a woman''s voice unexpectedly cut in. She wasughing, but her words were caustic.


    "Well, Callie, Quincy''s parents are still alive and kicking, so there''s no need for you to intervene for now."


    It was none other than Yelena, dragging Benedict along with her. Benedict''s expression was extremely unpleasant, but for some unknown reason, he still apanied Yelena to campus.


    Calista''s eyes narrowed slightly, as a sh of icy anger passed through them. However, the smile at the corner of her mouth became even more captivating.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Why are you here, Dad?"


    Meanwhile, Quincy also let out a sigh of relief. She ran over, took Yelena''s hand, and called out, "Mom!"


    Then, Quincy let out a somewhat frightened call, "Dad?"


    With a dismissive grunt, Benedict ignored her. He turned toward Calista, giving her a nod. After a moment of hesitation, he said with some difficulty, "Callie, just head back to ss!"


    Calista''s smile momentarily froze,


    before turning even brighter. "I''m currently on my break," she exined. "I was just about to


    review Quincy''s assignment d


    all, her grades have always been subpar. If I spot any issues early on, I can guide her in the right direction to avoid unnecessary issues."


    Benedict''s face turned grimmer as he understood what Callie meant. She was dead set on exposing Quincy. To him, this was like


    choosing between two sides of the


    sameCoin. Quincy had already been humiliated once. If she was humiliated again, how would she


    ever be able to marry in the future?


    So, he hurriedly said, "I''m here. I''ll hold the fort, so just get to ss."


    Yelena also quickly chimed in. "Exactly. We''re all here, so what''s there to worry about? Or are you implying that once you''ve entered the Fairchild family, you can thus stop listening to your father? That would be quite disrespectful!" Emmett finally sensed that something was amiss. "What''s going on? Could there be an issue with the research assignment?"


    "No, not at all! Professor Lockwood, please bear with us, there''s a slight issue with our Callie..." Yelena pointed at herself, smiling sheepishly. "But it''s okay, I''ll take her away immediately. We''ll be leaving Quincy in your care!"


    Yelena was well aware that Bayview


    University was a prestigious


    institution teeming with renowned experts from across the country. Only by catching the eye of a


    mentor could one truly acog


    substantial skills. Among all the university mentors, Professor


    Lockwood, standing right before her,


    was the most famous.


    As Quincy pursued her postgraduate studies, Professor Lockwood could introduce her to more advanced mentors. This could allow Quincy to get ahead of everyone else without needing exams.


    Afterpleting her studies, Quincy''s career starting point was going to be much higher than most others. Even if she eventually worked in the family business, she''d carry an air of confidence thatmanded respect.

 Chapter 156 Dealing With Snakes

    That''s why it was crucial to prevent Calista from causing any havoc.


    She fixed her gaze on Calista, her voiceced with a veiled threat. "Callie, how about we head back first? You haven''t been home in a while, don''t you miss it?" Benedict let out a sigh. Despite his disdain for his younger daughter''s actions, he understood that the family''s reputation was paramount while they were in public. "Could you please go back, Callie? Consider it as a favor to your father, will you?" said Benedict.


    Emmett looked confused, while Quincy was secretly thrilled in her heart.


    Calista shook her head and smiled bitterly. Oh, these people! If I hadn''t been reborn, I''d have definitely taken the me for the sake of my family''s reputation. But if I do it once, there will be more. Quincy never knows when to stop. But now... "I''m not leaving," Calista stated, her tone firm.


    Benedict was taken aback, while Yelena and Quincy felt a sense of unease and confusion stirring within them.


    Calista then addressed Emmett openly.


    "Professor Lockwood, I''ll justy it out there. I suspect that Quincy has stolen my work. That''s why I insisted on sitting in, to see if I was wrong, or if a certain someone could really be that shameless!"


    "I didn''t!" yelled Quincy.


    Her heart fluttered in panic. How can Calista just blurt this out in front of my mentor? Doesn''t she understand not to air one''s dirtyundry in public?Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Benedict''s face turned sour, his expression grave. "Callie!" he rebuked. "What nonsense are you spouting? Leave now!"


    Yelena quickly interjected, "I know you and Quincy have been having some disagreements recently, but this matter concerns Quincy''s entire life! How could you speak so recklessly?"


    Emmett was bewildered because of their actions. Their loud voices had gradually attracted a crowd of onlookers who pointed and gossiped about them.


    "I''m spouting nonsense, eh?"


    A glint of resentment shed in Calista''s eyes.


    "If I back down this time, some people will think I''m an easy target and keep taking advantage of me! Dad, what Quincy stole was my practical assignment for this exam. Tomorrow is the deadline, and without it, I won''t be able to get into the integrated master''s and doctoral program this year!"


    Calista found it hard to believe that Benedict would suggest sacrificing her for the sake of Quincy! After all, skipping grades to join thebined master''s and doctoral program was akin to advancing by several levels at once. It was far more challenging than finding a mentor.


    Upon seeing Benedict''s silence,


    Yelena grew frustrated. Without thinking, she retorted, "If you don''t pass this year, you can always try


    again next year! You''re smart set


    why are you causing trouble for Quincy? Or is it that you can''t produce good work yourself, and so you want to take credit for Quincy''s hard work? How could you be so mean!"


    At that moment, Quincy was in a dilemma. "Callie! You can''t treat me like this. This research assignment took me several years toplete. You know I''m not the smartest, and it was a rare stroke of inspiration that got me through it. My chances of finding a mentor depend on this. You can''t ruin me for the sake of your own future!"


    Calista was so angry that she let out a harsh peal ofughter. "What a joke! If I don''t pass this year, I''ll continue my attempts next year?"


    Originally, Calista was mindful of


    where she was and didn''t want to escte the situation. This assignment held additional


    significance for her. She hoped toet


    push Quincy into a corner until she had no choice but to back down. If things got out of hand, it could potentially harm her interests. Naturally, there was another reason. She didn''t want Quincy to lose too much face, making things difficult for Benedict.


    However, Quincy''s refusal to back down was one thing, but she had even dared to summon Yelena. To top it all off, she dared to use Benedict as leverage against her. This made today''s situation far from pleasant. "Callie, can we talk about everything once we get home, please?" blurted Benedict.


    Upon seeing Calista sneering, Benedict instantly realized something was amiss.


    If Callie reveals that Quincy stole from her, what a disgrace it would be for the family!


    Calista noticed his hesitance and scoffed quietly. She had already shown a great deal of patience and respect for Benedict. It was Quincy who didn''t know how to appreciate her kindness. He can''t me me for this.


    "Why should I go home? Are you trying to make me concede? Dad, you''d better understand that from earlier on, I''ve given Quincy countless opportunities to confess. Everything that happens now is her fault. I''m merely protecting my own interests."


    Quincy looked mortified. The family''s reputation is at stake! Is she dead set on exposing me? No, it can''t be. Dad wouldn''t allow her to do such a thing. Besides, I''ve had someone thoroughly research that assignment and thus I''m familiar with its contents. Even if Calista wants to prove something, she has no evidence!


    With this in mind, Quincy forced herself to calm down as she quickly thought of ways tobat this.


    At that time, Yelena also felt somewhat guilty. Even if Quincy had preparations, she''d be no match for Calista if thetter chose to pick a fight. Therefore, she tried to coax Benedict. "Benedict, why don''t you take Calista home? She seems to be unwell again!" Benedict remained motionless, his gaze fixed on Calista''s expression as if it held a thousand unspoken words.


    Calista didn''t bother looking at the conflicted expression on Benedict''s face. Instead, she scoffed, turning her sharp, piercing gaze toward Quincy.


    "I''ll ask you onest time. Do you really want me to blow this out of proportion?"


    Anyone else would have definitely given in by now. After all, Calista hadn''t confronted her directly yet. If Quincy admitted her mistake at this point, the worst-case scenario would be that Professor Lockwood''s impression of her would greatly deteriorate.


    However, deep down, Quincy always


    harbored a glimmer of hope. She


    believed that Calista had not openly confronted her for so long, likely out


    of consideration for their fone


    reputation. With Dad present,


    surely wouldn''t let Calista ruin me. As long as I deny everythingpletely, there''s a chance that today''s incident will just end without any problems.

 Chapter 157 The Truth Revealed

    Thus, Quincy gritted her teeth and dered, "Let it be a big deal if it must. I won''t admit to things I didn''t do!" Calista raised an eyebrow slightly, thinking that Quincy was the type who refused to give up until all hope was lost.


    Her voice suddenly rose as she addressed Emmett. "I apologize for this spectacle. I would like to ask you to bear witness today. If it''s proven that Quincy did indeed steal my work, I''m asking that the university expels her immediately." Emmett was shocked. I''m not entangled in some kind of family feud, am I?


    Upon hearing Calista''s words, Benedict was taken aback. He quickly responded, a hint of pleading in his tone. "Calista, I beg you, stop this! Whatever it is, let''s talk about it at home!"


    Upon hearing that Calista was nning to get rid of Quincy, Yelena became frantic. "Exactly! Your father has been unwelltely! Are you trying to upset him on purpose?"


    Upon hearing this, Benedict quickly feigned a few coughs.


    Calista cast him a sideways nce. "Dad, stop pretending. Before you arrived, I''ve given Quincy countless opportunities to confess. The reason things have escted to this point isn''t because of me, but her. She''s the one pushing her luck! I know we''re both equally dear and important to you, but you should have asked me before using me as a stepping stone for her!"


    Initially, Benedict didn''t think much of it, but Calista''s words made his face beet red. He realized that Calista had indeed grown up, and was no longer the obedient child she once was, even daring to challenge him.


    The crowd around them was growingrger. Sweat trickled down Quincy''s forehead as she continuously shot pleading nces at Benedict. She hoped he would muster up some courage, ideally to drag Calista away. However, despite his visible frustration, Benedict remained silent.


    Seeing the growing crowd, Emmett found himself without a choice and reluctantly asked, "Calista, you im that Quincy stole your assignment. Do you have any evidence?"


    Upon hearing this, Quincy thought of something and stiffly retorted, "Don''t tell me you''ve been snooping on my work, and then fabricating evidence against me? I''ve spent a long time preparing this and only revealed it now to secure a mentor at the university. However, there would''ve been plenty of time for certain individuals with ulterior motives to create false evidence. Callie, we''re family, let''s not stoop so low!"


    One had to admit that Quincy was indeed clever. From the beginning, she imed to have been preparing her work for several years. If Calista were to produce any drafts or data stored on aputer, she could easily assert that Calista had snuck a peek at her work and deliberately fabricated false evidence. Moreover, she subtly hinted that they were "family", hoping that Calista would back down.


    Yet, how could Calista just back away like this?


    With a smirk, Calista said, "So, you''re aware that your actions are unsavory?"


    "I have plenty of evidence. Now, I would like to request Mr. Gosling''s presence. Today, I will surely make everything crystal clear! The thief can''t get away with this!" said Calista shrilly.


    A thief?


    Initially, when the students gathered around the scene, they had no idea what was going on. But now, it seemed apparent that someone had stolen something. Or was it a feud between two beautiful sisters? Under Calista''s cool and powerful aura, Emmett subtly wiped away the sweat on his brow. "All right, I''ll call him over."


    I should really stay out of this and let the dean handle it.


    Upon hearing the issue Emmett had brought up, Barry also broke out in a cold sweat. It''s Calista again? Why is she always causing trouble?


    He might have had his reservations, but he still hurried over. Once he arrived, he found the entire gazebo packed with people.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Given that a crowd had formed, Yelena thought of how ruthless Calista was, even summoning the dean. Ultimately, she couldn''t hold back and started cursing out loud.


    Moreover, every sentence she uttered implied that Calista desired to seize Quincy''s possessions. Some people who didn''t fully understand the situation even assumed that Calista was shameless.


    However, many people furrowed their brows, because Yelena was simply too loud.


    Judging from her attire, Yelena should have been a well-off and cultured individual. However, she was behaving like a shrew at the moment. If not for Emmett''s intervention, she might have resorted to physical violence.


    Yelena was determined to stir up trouble, hoping to embarrass Calista to such an extent that she would have no choice but to back down.


    Before the arrival of the dean, Calista stood off to the side, maintaining a calm demeanor. Despite Benedict''s frustrated gaze on them, she showed no signs of backing down.


    Benedict was a mercurial man-timid and easily swayed, yet at times incredibly stubborn. Despite his asional confusion, he was fundamentally a good person.


    Back when they were at home,


    whenever a dispute arose, Calista


    would always fear making things difficult for Benedict, and hence, she would be the first to back down Now, no matter the oue, Benedict still hoped that Calista would be the one to concede. Simply put, he wanted to smooth things over.


    Benedict truly didn''t know what to do. On one side, stood his wife and younger daughter, on the other, his oldest daughter.


    People naturally tended to


    sympathize with the underdog.


    Calista''s dominance only highlighted


    Quincy''s alleged "weakness".


    Therefore, before he arrived, he had intended to persuade Calista to step back. After all, if Quincy could catch the mentor''s eye, wouldn''t it be an honor for their family?


    Surprisingly, Galistapletely disregarded his decision. Not only did she ignore it, but she also seemed intent on trampling Quincy into the ground. The irony was that none of this was Calista''s fault,


    leaving him unable to reprimand her.


    Initially, he was just pretending to be unwell. Now, he truly began to feel a tightness in his chest.

 Chapter 158 The Dean Approaches

    "Herees Mr. Gosling!" someone shouted, and the crowd parted to make way. The portly dean hurried over, first sweeping his gaze over everyone before finallynding on Calista. He forced a smile and said, "Calista, I heard you want to report Quincy because she stole something from you?" The school''s higher-ups were aware that Calista was the adopted daughter of the Fairchilds. After her arrival, they treated her with great respect. This was the advantage of having powerful backing.


    Calista evidently anticipated this and nodded. "Yes, the research assignment that Quincy submitted was actually the work I prepared for thebined master''s and doctoral program." Quincy''s face turned deathly pale.


    Seeing that Benedict could not interject, Quincy was worried that Calista would expose her today. However, that couldn''t happen! Regardless of the evidence Calista could produce, she would be able to refute it. If it really came to a showdown, it was still unclear who would have the upper hand.


    However, Yelena wasn''t so forgiving. She stared at Calista nervously, her wordsced with an implicit threat.


    "Calista, are you really going to let a misunderstanding cause such a rift with your family? Yes, you''re sessful now, but blood is thicker than water. If anything were to happen, it''s your real kin who would help you! Your recklessness is tarnishing our family''s reputation! Aren''t you afraid your father might forbid you froming home in the future?"


    Upon hearing this, Calista gave Benedict, whose face was ashen, a half-smile.


    She spoke slowly, "Quincy''s grades are poor, and she has absolutely no talent for medical research. If she gets away with this once and tastes sess, she will only be more audacious in the future, relying on usurping others'' achievements to satisfy her own vanity. Even if I were to cover for her, it would be of no use."


    Upon seeing that Calista''s demeanor had softened and her words held merit, Benedict''s expression finally eased a bit. Indeed, helping Quincy once could actually harm her! However, given the circumstances, Callie will have to bear the brunt of this. He was resolved to sternly reprimand Quincy, ensuring she recognized her mistake and would never repeat it in the future.


    But before he could even respond, Calista spoke again. "However, I have no intention of covering for her, as she''s nothing but useless! Anyone with a brain could see who holds more value. Sacrificing me for her sake would be the most foolish decision!"


    Her tone was assertive and her gaze gradually turned sharp. The people around her inexplicably felt a heavy pressure, as if the air itself had be taut.


    "The situation between Quincy and I today is entirely her own doing. If you are considering jeopardizing my exams to amodate her, I''m afraid I must apologize. Whether it''s talent, potential, or even looks, Quincy is utterly worthless! She''s the one who should be sacrificed! To let her ascend at my expense, Dad, have you lost your senses?" hissed Calista.


    She spoke quickly, her enunciation precise, and everything she said held significant power.


    The crowd watching collectively let out a murmur of awe. This was the first time witnessing someone speak so matter-of-factly. This kind of intimidating dominance was incredibly attractive to them.


    On the other hand, Benedict''s face had turned pale. He pointed at Calista, but couldn''t utter a single word. As for what he was thinking, it was beyond anyone''sprehension.


    Quincy had no other choice but to resort to desperate measures.


    Suddenly, she eximed, "Callie! Since you keep using me of stealing your work, then let''s settle this once and for all! Whether it''s the idea or the actual content, only a confrontation will reveal who the true author is!" Barry felt a jolt in his heart. It appeared that Quincy hade prepared as well.


    Yelena knew that Quincy had prepared thoroughly. Besides, they were in public, so what was there to fear from a verbal confrontation? Therefore, she gritted her teeth and chimed in. "Exactly, let''s put the matter to rest by confronting it!" Yet, Calista looked mockingly at Yelena, giving thetter a cold once-over.


    "A confrontation? Do you think I have nothing better to do?"


    Calista had been pressuring Quincy before to force her to hand in her own work. She didn''t want to make a big fuss or to publicize the contents of the assignment. Why escte this? How foolish of her!


    Quincy, however, seemed to havetched onto a misunderstanding, and loudly eximed, "I bet you don''t have the guts! You just want to hand in my work so you can pass the exam. How could you, Callie?"


    The people around were utterly confused, unsure of who was telling the truth and who was lying. Why was the menacing girl unwilling to confront the matter?


    Calista turned to Professor


    Lockwood and said, "Professor, the


    truth is, what Quincy stole was just a prototype. Its form is only


    effective for women over the age of twenty-five. Even then, it only provides about eighty percent protection."


    As she spoke, she opened a document on her phone and handed it over.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "This is the final product. The assignment I Submitted was a by-product derived from this final draft. It has the potential to effectively prevent ovarian cancer, which is the subject I n to focus my research on next! I only submitted a semi-finished product as


    my assignment because it''s a trade secret. I never expected such a thing to happen."


    Calista''s words left everyone in utter shock.


    She had actually developed a cancer prevention drug!


    Emmett was even more astounded. He finally understood why Calista was reluctant to cause a scene before, and instead tried to pressure Quincy into backing down. This assignment wasn''t just an


    assignment, it held immens1<pmercial value! Its potential was hard to estimate.

 Chapter 159 Thrust Into The Abyss

    If things had proceeded in the usual manner, this assignment would only be seen by a handful of professors. Being individuals of high repute, they would naturally have kept it confidential.


    to be publicized.


    However, things were different now. Quincy secretly took the assignment to the university department. With the esction of this issue, if they were to confront each other, to validate the truth of their words, there was a high chance that the contents of the assignment had If a savvy individual were to delve deeper into this particr subject matter at that time, Calista''s trade secrets would''ve inevitably been exposed. That''s why she had been avoiding making a big fuss or confronting the issue head-on, as a form of self-preservation. Regarding the contents, Emmett meticulously reviewed the assignment that Quincy had handed in, fully understanding what was in it.


    The assignment was a semi-finished product Calista purposefully isted from the finished product, making it abundantly clear whose work it was.


    So now, it was absolutely clear who was lying.


    Quincy would have never guessed that for the sake of earning money, Calista deliberately submitted a half-finished assignment. Even more so, she wouldn''t have expected Calista to expose her by bringing out thepleted work. Hearing the gasps and jeers from the people around her, Quincy felt utterly humiliated. Not even the incident with the videost time had made her feel so mortified.


    After all, she could have imed that the video was a deliberate set-up by others to harm her. But this time, she had used Calista of trying to steal her work in front of so many people. Now, having been harshly confronted by Calista, her face was flushed crimson with humiliation. She wished she could just faint on the spot.


    Seeing that Emmett was so engrossed in reading, Calista turned to face a stunned Benedict and said, "I''d originally nned toplete this research before handing it over to you for implementation. It has enormous potential and profit, as well as the ability to bring us a good reputation. However, because the finished product still has some ws, I''m working to ovee them. I hadn''t intended to present it this early. Dad, do you realize that your blunder might have ruined a chance to restore our family''s honor?"


    She coolly pointed out the consequences which were undoubtedly unbearable for Benedict.


    Benedict was drenched in cold sweat, wishing he could snatch the phone from Emmett''s hands. Just a nce is enough! Why is he scrutinizing it so intently?


    Upon hearing Calista''s words, Emmett also calmed down. Reluctantly, he returned the phone to Calista, genuinelyplimenting her in the process.


    "You truly are a rare genius in medical research! Compared to you, I, as a professor, still have much to learn-"


    "Each individual has their own expertise, Professor Lockwood," interjected Calista nonchntly. "You''re being modest."


    Emmett felt a pang of bitterness in his heart. By now, everyone knew that Calista was the prodigy of the entire department. Every field had its own professionals, but for a well-rounded genius like Calista, this was clearly a phrase meant tofort anyone who wasn''t on par with her.


    Barry, observing this dramatic turn of events, curiously inquired, "Professor Lockwood, can we now ascertain who has been lying?"


    Professor Lockwood nodded, casting a disappointed nce at Quincy. In a deep voice, he said, "Today''s students have so many distractions. Wouldn''t it be great if they could focus their energy on the right path?"


    He was certain that after Quincy received the assignment, she must have done a lot of research, which was why she could confidently challenge Calista. If she could apply this cleverness to her actual work, would there even be a need to copy assignments? Quincy hung her head low, biting down on her lip so hard that she nearly drew blood.


    With a grave look on his face, Emmett spoke. "Don''t worry, Calista. Even though I''ve seen your research, I won''t share it with anyone. Moreover, I suggest you apply for a patent before you find a mentor. This is truly an extraordinary piece of research," said Emmett reassuringly.


    With a faint smile, Calista responded, "Thank you for your kind intentions, Professor. I understand."


    After witnessing a grand spectacle, the expressions on everyone''s faces varied greatly. Some let out a long sigh of relief.


    "She''s a real prodigy. I know this girl. She''s the youngest student who applied for the integrated Masters and PhD program this time at only eighteen years old. But her intellect is just astounding!"All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "If I were that smart and able to develop such an amazing drug, my dad would definitely be over the moon!" chimed another person enviously.


    "However, her younger sister is truly ridiculous. She had the audacity to steal from her own sister and then acted as if her sister was the one trying to take credit for her work. Judging by her age, she''s probably in high school, but she certainly is adept at plotting."


    "You guys have no idea!" said a girl


    who knew Quincy at high school. "Quincy was guaranteed admission. She could go straight to Bayview University next year. I guess she was afraid that no professors would want her


    once she got to univenes


    That''s probably why she stole her sister''s work, maybe to secure a future mentor. It''s so unfortunate that she stole something so important. If it wasn''t discovered in time, it would have been a huge loss if she had revealed it! Yet her family still tried to cover for her! It''s just beyond understanding..."


    "Can such a person even be trusted? I''m certain there''s something fishy going on here. I''m going to report this to the authorities. There must be an issue. Maybe something else was stolen!"


    The chattering grew louder and


    louder. While Calista had her


    moment in the spotlight, Quincy was


    Benedict managed to regain some semnce of calm. Initially, when Quincy had confessed to him about her theft, he was quite upset.


    Calista''s disobedience had only


    added fuel to his anger. However, when he was suddenly hit by a surprise from Calista, his emotions became a tangled mess. He wanted tough, yet he found himself unable to.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 160 Stay Out Of My Sight

    Seeing how his youngest daughter was being judged made him mad, but he couldn''t just sit there and do nothing. He grabbed Quincy''s hand and said, "Come on, let''s go!"Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing how lost Quincy had be and knowing that her reputation was thoroughly ruined, Yelena could no longer contain her anger. She pointed at Calista and unleashed a torrent of curses. "You''re nothing but an ingrate! All these years, I''ve raised you and given you everything you need, and this is how you treat your sister? How can you be so cruel? Why can''t you give this to her since it''s just a semi-finished product? Is it because you can''t stand to see her do well? Are you jealous because she found a good mentor? Now look at what you''ve done! You''ve ruined Quincy for the sake of one exam! Are you happy now?"


    "That''s enough! Quit making a scene. Haven''t you embarrassed yourself enough?" Benedict raised his voice, his expression stern.


    If it were any other matter, Yelena might have swallowed her pride and let it slide, but when it came to her precious daughter, she couldn''t simply stand by and do nothing. "Benedict, you coward! Are you just going to stand there and let Calista bully Quincy? Calista is your daughter, but so is Quincy! Calista''s action clearly showed she doesn''t consider us as family. Had she not exposed the truth, Quincy would have remembered her kindness when she became sessful. Why must she expose Quincy while she continues her research? They could have simply announced to the world that it was a coborative effort once the work was finished andunched, but Calista''s self-centeredness knows no bounds. She''s so desperate for fame that she wouldn''t hesitate to trample on Quincy! A daughter like her will never respect you in the future!"


    Yelena''s lengthy speech carried both logical points and an absurdly amusing tone. It seemed as though she was implying that Calista might eventually turn against Benedict simply because she wasn''t siding with Quincy.


    Barry couldn''t tolerate their bickering any longer. Before Yelena could continue, he intervened, his plump face assuming a stern expression. "Madam, let''s make things clear. Regardless of how you''ve raised your child, the school will undoubtedly take disciplinary action against dishonest behavior! Moreover, Calista''s examination holds immense significance. Being the first eighteen-year-old to skip several grades and directly enroll in abined master''s and doctoral program, this is her one and only chance. If she fails, she won''t get another opportunity."


    "I understand that, as parents, you both want your children to excel in their own right." At this point, a hint of mockery emerged on Barry''s face. "However, if Calista were to cover for Quincy, then the research content of this assignment would essentially be Quincy''s intellectual property. In the future, her tutor would assist her inpleting the research, and the school would apply for a patent on her behalf. At that point, unless Calista generously hands over the finished product to Quincy, allowing Quincy to take all the credit, any further research she conducts would be considered a vition of intellectual property."


    What he said made sense but wasn''t entirely urate, yet his words were enough to intimidate those who didn''t fully understand how the system worked.


    Many onlookers burst intoughter. Why would a person hand over a finished product to someone who tried stealing it, giving them a chance to taste fame? No one would be foolish enough to take this loss and risk beingbeled as someone who steals her sister''s work! Moreover, Yelena''s remarks were absurd. She acted as if the elder sister was obligated to sacrifice herself and share her glory with her younger sister, even covering for her sister''s theft by missing an important exam. Such tant favoritism. She''s undoubtedly the stepmother to the eldest daughter!


    "Yelena!" Benedict might be oblivious, but he knew how absurd Yelena''s behavior was. "Have you lost your mind? How could you say such a thing?"


    Throughout themotion, Calista remainedposed and indifferent. While others might think Yelena had lost her mind to make such absurd remarks, Calista knew from previous life that it was exactly what Yelena intended. Yelena believed Calista was merely a stepping stone for Quincy''s sess, using all of Calista''s talent and abilities to pave the way for Quincy''s advancement.


    At this point, Yelena had lost her sanity,pletely impervious to reason. She wished she could tear Calista apart, especially after seeing how Quincy sobbed, head hung low in distress. "What''s wrong with what I said Of I hadn''t taken such good care of Calista, she would have gone astray long ago! She owes her achievements to me! Yet shepletely destroyed Quincy just because Quincy took something from her. Calista is nothing but an ingrate. She''s a b*tch!"


    Calista couldn''t help but smirk. "Mrs. Stafford, do you really want to embarrass yourself in front of all these people?"


    Yelena''s face turned ashen.


    Calista continued to chuckle. She took the risk of exposing her research with the intention of taking Quincy down, not merely to embarrass her. "Mr. Gosling, how will the school punish Quincy for her wrongdoing?"


    "Calista Stafford, how dare you?" Upon learning of her intentions, Yelena suddenly strode toward Calista as if she were poised to strike her.


    Her eyes were aze with fury.


    "Why not?" Calista replied with a


    sweet smile, yet her words were as sharp as a knife. "Quincy was caught stealing. Considering the value of the stolen product alone, involving the authorities would have spelled ruin for her. I''m kind enough to overlook this transgression, but on one condition: Quincy must quit the school and stay out of my sight."


    Barry immediately weighed the pros and cons in his mind, swiftly voicing his final decision. "That''s right. Our school cannot tolerate such an individual. Not only did she attempt to steal someone''s intellectual property, but she also had the audacity to bite back. Her actions show that she''s not someone with amendable character."


    Benedict sighed deeply. The turn of events left him looking as worn as a man much older. Yet, he had to ept this oue, given the many onlookers today. Even if Quincy were to continue studying there, her future would no longer be promising.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 161 Accepted Into The Program

    Upon hearing those words, Quincypletely fell apart. Shey weakly against Benedict, her eyes drooping with a profound sense of resentment. "Calista! How could you be so ruthless? I''m your sister! What''s wrong with me taking your work? Why must you do this to me?"Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Deep within Quincy''s heart, she swore that if given the chance, she would make Calista suffer humiliation ten thousand times worse than what she had experienced that day.


    Barry''s decision, too, dealt a devastating blow to Yelena. Is he going to expel Quincy? No! Calista should be the one getting expelled!


    Bayview University boasted one of the country''s top medical faculties. It had taken her quite some effort to secure Quincy''s guaranteed admission into the university. Which medical school would still be willing to ept Quincy if she''s expelled from here? And how would she secure a job at the family business after graduation?


    The more she dwelled on it, the angrier Yelena became. All of a sudden, she let out a bizarre cry and charged in Calista''s direction!


    It was evident to everyone that Yelena was about to act, yet Calista remainedposed. In an instant, Emmett, drenched in sweat, positioned himself protectively in front of her. Barry, too, hurried over to mediate the situation.


    Calista instantly noticed that Yelena''s nails were filed to sharp points, clearly not for aesthetics. It was apparent that Yelena was fully intent on disfiguring her face.


    "Calista narrowed her eyes, watching as Yelena approached with a threatening gesture. However, two burly men held her back, preventing any further advance. Despite the monstrous fury in her gaze, there was nothing she could do.


    Calista''sughter in response immediately fueled Yelena''s anger. "Calista! You heartless wretch! Go to hell!"


    The spectators, initially engrossed in the drama, couldn''t help but gasp at this point. The curse was not something they would expect to hear in a family argument. What kind of parents could utter such words to their children? Benedict stepped in and pulled Yelena away, swiftly giving her a p across her face. "Calm down!"


    His face was flushed with anger. He had pped Yelena so hard that she was knocked to the ground.


    Upon seeing this, Quincy hurried over and threw herself into Yelena''s arms, crying with regret. "Dad! This is all my fault. Don''t take it out on Mom!"


    Quincy was acutely aware that within the Stafford family, Yelena was the only one who truly cared for her. She understood that, when the moment was right, she needed to demonstrate to Yelena that she deserved her love more.


    As expected, Yelena couldn''t bear to


    see her daughter in such a


    miserable state. She covered her


    face, tears welling up in her eyes as she looked at Benedict, her voice filled with resentment. "Fine. It seems you only consider Calista as your precious daughter, right? Go ahead, hit us! Kill us if you want! I know you never liked me. You only married me out of responsibility. Quincy was never meant to be in this world! Why don''t you just kill us and be done with it!"


    Benedict, often oblivious, had always felt guilty for impregnating Yelena. Her bringing this up not only made him feel awkward but also gave him a splitting headache.


    Meanwhile, Yelena and Quincy were already huddled together, crying desperately.


    Suddenly, Calista strode confidently toward Yelena while pping her hands, exuding an air of victory. Despite her arrogance, Calista''s demeanormanded respect, leaving no room for dislike. Her smile and gaze sent a shiver down the spine of onlookers. "You know what?"


    Calista crossed his arms and directed his attention to Yelena. "What I did today was for Quincy''s benefit. Look at her; she inherited your acting skills. It''s a waste for her to pursue an education in medicine. She should enroll in a drama school where her talent can shine." Quincy''s face instantly turned as pale as snow. Some onlookers couldn''t help but wonder if Quincy would end up vomiting blood out of anger because of Calista.


    After all, Quincy was not as bold as Mirabelle. Even if she wasn''t pushed to the point of vomiting blood, she wasn''t far from it. She couldn''t even cry when Calista uttered those words. Instead, she sat still, feeling incredibly embarrassed.


    Calista nced at the flustered


    Benedict, who was standing to the side, before turning to Barry and, in a softened tone, saying, "It seems they''re quite emotional. Perhaps it would be best to take them to the office for some tea to calm down. I must be going; I have a ss to attend to. Thank you for your help, Professor Lockwood."


    Barry nodded in response. "No trouble at all. It''s all part of my job."


    Calista finally locked eyes with Benedict. Despite seeing the mixed emotions in his eyes, she left without uttering a word.


    At that point, Benedict wished there was someone who could offer him advice to navigate such a challenging situation. Everything that had unfolded today was overwhelmingly stressful for someone as image-conscious as him.


    While Calista''s achievement had filled him with pride, her actions had also caused him considerable embarrassment. Although Calista sympathized with the hardships Benedict had faced in his past life and was determined to help him avoid such misfortunes now, she had lost the will to continue being a dutiful daughter to him.


    Moreover, she did have a ss to attend.


    Emmett finally handed over the item


    that Quincy had given him to Colin, marking the end of Calista''s examination. This time, a total of thirty people were epted into the program. Most of those who came to take the exam were graduate and postgraduate students, so Calista, being in her teenage years, stood out among the ss. Nevertheless, the other students, who were in their twenties and were considered prodigies by others, all had favorable impressions of Calista. Her assertiveness in standing up for herself and dealing with two deceitful women had propelled her into the limelight at the school''s forum.

 Chapter 162 All Hail Queen Calista

    Meanwhile, at the Fairchild''s residence, Quintus, brimming with excitement, reported on what Calista did in school.


    His admiration for Calista intensified after he finished recounting the entire incident. "Mr. Kallum, You really should check out the school forum. Even though Ms. Calista keeps a low profile, she''s unavoidably be a celebrity on campus! She has gained quite a number of admirers, and her poprity is through the roof!" Kallum had just finished reading a document when he heard the news. Without hesitation, he logged into Calista''s campuswork, and the first post that popped up was about her.


    In addition to discussing today''s incident, the original poster also shared another post highlighting how Calista had pushed Mirabelle to utter frustration.


    The post read: Unmasking Fake Apologies: Exposing Pretentious Behavior


    The post included pictures as evidence, each apanied by captions perfectly capturing the scene. They illustrated how Calista powerfully counterattacked step by step and withstood the pressure of public opinion in the end. They depicted how she pushed Mirabelle to the brink with just a banknote.


    As Kallum observed, his lips curled up slightly, reflecting the resentment and frustration Mirabelle must have felt at that time just by looking at the images. Moreover, the Yost family had the sensibility to eventually send Mirabelle to prison without resorting to any underhanded tactics.


    "How''s Mirabelle?" Kallum asked casually, his feelings toward the woman, who had deceived him for nine years and still sought to harm Calista, nothing but disgust.


    Quintus replied, "The Yost family spent a hefty sum to ensure Mirabelle has a cell to herself. They''ve also made arrangements to make her stay morefortable. She shouldn''t be all right."


    Nheless, there was no way for Mirabelle topletely evade hardship. After all, any kind of unexpected incident could ur behind bars.


    Kallum gave a slight nod, his attention primarily focused on thements that followed: Queen Calista is just too cool! I want her to be the mother to my children!


    Thisment garnered the most upvotes, and regardless of gender, a multitude of people liked and replied to it, reflecting the fervor of fans chasing after their favorite celebrities.


    The corners of Kallum''s mouth suddenly tightened.


    Amenter, with the emoji of starry-eyed admiration, wrote: I was right there! Queen Calista''s aura was simply unparalleled! When she got closer to me, I didn''t even dare to breathe! I wish I could just lick her feet! Someone else responded: You''re disgusting. But... I guess you''re not alone who feels this way...


    Another person wrote: You guys are such perverts. I won''t stoop to licking Queen Calista''s feet just because she has an icy cold voice, a sharp gaze, and a striking smile. That''s coz I''m already on my knees worshipping her!


    Ament followed suit: A bunch of dirty-minded men. What makes you think you''re worthy of Queen Calista? She''s for thedies, hands down. Oh God! I think I''ve gone lesbian for her!


    Aizen wrote: You people are such pervs. I was simply admiring her, appreciating her inner beauty by staring through her clothes...


    Imaginations ran wild, each one more outrageous than thest, causing Kallum''s face to darken progressively. How dare these people fantasize about my woman?Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Kallum quickly signed up for an ount!


    He furiously pounded on the keyboard and typed out a message: Calista is mine. You can admire her all you want, but don''t you dare harbor any thoughts or make any moves on her. I mean what I said, and there will be dire consequences if you don''t heed my warning! The bustling forum quieted for a moment before exploding into another round ofmotion.


    Aizen retaliated: Callie''s Man? Who is he? He''s got some nerve to call Queen Calista his woman. Has he no shame?


    Someone else echoed: What''s with that expression? Acting all high and mighty like some overbearing CEO. What''s your game? Have you been daydreaming so much that you actually believe you''re above us all?


    Another person chided: Outrageous! How dare he call himself Callie''s man? I should call myself Callie''s Woman too!


    Kallum erupted with rage, astounded by the audacity of these people! Calista is clearly mine. How could they shamelessly im her as their own?


    Quintus sweated bullets as he


    watched from the side. To divert


    attention, he quickly flipped to another post on his tablet and handed it over, ingratiatingly saying, "Mr. Kallum, don''t bother with those ignorant students. Look, this is today''s post. Ms. Calista is really popr!"


    Kallum began to feel it was pointless to argue with them. He swallowed his anger, tossed the notebook aside, and took a look at the tablet.


    The title of the post read: The Stepmother and Sister Duo''s Embarrassment: Witness Queen Calista''s Triumph


    Initially, Kallum was engrossed in


    the images and subtitles. His expression gradually settled into calmness, finally giving way to a hint of a smile, He watched how Calista cornered Benedict until he was at a loss for words, and how she drove Quincy out of school. Feeling proud, he couldn''t help but acknowledge how formidable Calista was, clearly outshining all other women who paled inparison. How can I let her deal with such atrocities by herself? I must recover as soon as possible. It''s time for me to shine.


    Kallum couldn''t stop smirking as he scrolled through thements.


    One of thements wrote: I''m off to warm up the bed for Queen Calista now. Bye!


    Another person added: I''m off to give Queen Calista a leg massage. See you!


    The nextment followed suit: And I''m going to make Queen Calista some soup. She has had a long day. Imagination ran wild when someone wrote: I want to dress Queen Calista. She has such an exceptional figure...


    The finalment appeared under the post: I don''t need anything. I just want Queen Calista to carry my children!


    With a loud smack, Kallum abruptly


    closed his tablet on hisp, hoping to turn a blind eye to the things he read. Yet, he refused to back down. Gritting his teeth in frustration, he rapidly typed out another paragraph, determined to set the record straight: Queen Calista is mine, and mine alone! I''m the one who warms her bed every day, and she even massages my legs sometimes. I''m learning how to make soup just for her. Plus, she doesn''t mind changing her clothes in front of me. And let''s not forget, she can only have kids with me!

 Chapter 163 Stop Acting Like A Pervert

    Still feeling unsatisfied, Kallum fired off a few more sentences. His arrogance and dominance were apparent from the get-go, enough to draw people''s ire. That subsequently led to the whole forum turning against him.


    It was tough for Kallum to take on so many. Coldly looking at their relentless counterattacks, he suddenly broke into a quietugh and lifted his head to look at Quintus.


    "Those from Bayview University are all future social elites, so how can they indulge in trivial matters and lose their sense of purpose? This campus forum is quite toxic, it''d be better to shut it down."


    Hearing this, Quintus, drenched in cold sweat, hastily made a phone call. Strangely, the campus forum crashed minutester. By the time it was fixed, posts that were not rted to "announcements" or "academics" were no longer allowed, leading to a wave ofints and protests from many.


    A devilish grin crossed Kallum''s face.


    Trying topete with me? Callie is mine!


    Calista returned to see that scene. Kallum looks like he''s in a good mood today, huh?


    Seeing her return, Kallum quickly sent away everyone attending to him in the room. Being quite sharp-witted, Quintus had some fruit-vored coffee and snacks served.


    Calista settled into the single-seater couch, sinking into itsfort. She let out a satisfied sigh. "Finally, it''s taken care of."


    A hint of a smile finally graced her face at this point as she announced proudly, "I got epted into thebined master''s and doctoral program!"


    Kallum poured her a cup of coffee, looking proud. "I knew you could do it."


    Calista looked at him, somewhat baffled. "I didn''t realize you trusted me that much."


    Kallum brought the cup of perfectly warmed fruit-vored coffee to Calista''s lips, his tone brimming with affection and his gaze unintentionally tender. "As long as it''s you, I''d have trust."


    Calista felt a bit at a loss. Initially, to her, Kallum was like a high and mighty divine being, who subsequently became a somewhat awkward young master. But now, he always seemed to unintentionally show an indulgent attitude toward her. It was as though she could do whatever she wanted, and he would be there to let her have her way.


    She blinked and couldn''t help but ask, "Is this a perk of being a younger sister?"


    A smirk yed on Kallum''s lips. This is a privilege only you''re entitled to. "Have some coffee," he said.


    Calista took a sip from the cup in his hand. The warmtte, rich with a fruit aroma, slid down into her stomach. She wasn''t fond of drinking milk, always finding that it had a weird taste, perhaps because of her sharp sense of smell. As such, Kallum came up with all sorts of ways to get her to drink milk without feeling disgusted by it.


    "Kallum, you sure know how to take care of people..." Calista teased. Her demeanor had softened in the warmth of the room, but her words wereced with determination about how she would only see him as a brotherly figure no matter how wonderful he was. Kallum took a sip from the cup she had just drunk from. That ambiguous action, or an indirect kiss, left Calista slightly wide-eyed, yet all he did wasugh.


    "I''d only take care of you."


    Uhh... Calista pursed her lips. I can''t stay in here any longer! He''s just killing the conversation!


    However, she didn''t know where else she could go, apart from this room. Ss was not at home and Wanda had also been fairly busy recently. In the over five thousand square feet massive mansion, she and Kallum were the only main upants. Besides, she had the responsibility to look after him at night and couldn''t leave him alone for too long as there might be idents.


    "I...I''ll go take a shower! Just press the rm if there''s anything!" Calista got up and strode toward the bathroom.


    Kallum nodded. "Go ahead, I''ve had someone prepare the bath for you."


    That peculiar sensation surfaced again. When she turned to look at him, he was casually seated on the couch, with one hand propped on his chin and his gaze fixated on her with his head slightly tilted upward.


    Even though he was seated, his tall


    and slender figure exuded a dominant aura. Not to mention his strikingly profound features and his violet eyes that seemed to sparkle with an electrifying intensity. The room was filled with a palpable, stirring sense of masculinity that inexplicably made Calista swallow nervously.


    "What''s the matter?" Kallum shed a smirk. "Too tired to undress yourself?"


    I''d be more than happy to help out.


    Calista shivered under his intensely predatory gaze. Did I just get teased?


    "No need."


    After firmly rejecting him, she immediately retreated to the bathroom, intending to thoroughly wash away the inexplicable thoughts that had suddenly sprung up in her mind.


    After Calista left for the bathroom, a surge of impatience filled Kallum. It felt as though he was repeatedly being tickled on the tip of his hear with a feather. Just the thought of what Calista was doing in the bathroom sent a tingling sensation through him as if he''d been electrified.


    Calm down. There''s nothing I can do. I''ve got to stop acting like a pervert!


    Regardless of whether he was deemed a pervert or a lovestruck fool, he simply couldn''t stand to bear Calista vanishing from his sight. He licked his lips, attempting to suppress those terrifying and twisted thoughts in his head.


    I can''t hurt Callie! Calm down! Calm down!This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Unaware of what was on Kallum''s mind, Calista wasfortably lounging in the water in the bathroom, a sigh escaping her lips.


    The temperature in every corner of Fairchild Manor was consistently regted, so she didn''t feel cold. Even though it was already autumn, she could still delightfully y with bubbles in the warm water.


    The top floor where they were on was typically off-limits to unrted personnel. Entry and exit were controlled through a door, and if one were infected by the virus, the door would trigger an rm. Fortunately, throughout their stay, the rm had never sounded.

 Chapter 164 Crumbled Self Control

    Calista closed her eyes, her thoughts wandering away.


    The selection of a mentor was imminent, offering her the opportunity to identify deficiencies and gradually refine the thoughts swirling in her mind. As for the future, she had her ns. Once Kallum recovered from his illness, she intended to establish her own research center since she had a fondness for medical research. Of course, all of this was contingent on her dealing with those pesky individuals first.


    Images of her adversaries, both known and unknown, shed in her mind, one by one. Calista opened her eyes, her gaze icy cold.


    Striking a deal with the Fairchilds is a wise decision. At least those enemies can''t do anything to me for now. That said, I should still establish my own influence, in case I fall out with the Fairchilds in the future. It''s unwise to put all of one''s eggs in a basket. After washing up, Calista wiped her body dry, gathered her energy, and prepared to perform acupuncture on Kallum. The thought that his life was in her hands brought a mischievous grin to her face. She reached out to grab the neatly folded pajamas. Huh?


    Calista picked it up to see. The pajamas she used to wear had always been of a conservative and adorable style, and it was clear the butler had prepared them. But this silk slip nightgown; isn''t this a little too excessive? It''s obviously too seductive! She nced at the dirty clothes she threw on the floor, then picked up the bathroom phone to call Paul.


    Extreme guilt engulfed Paul. He knew Calista woulde looking for him, so he had prepared his excuses in advance.


    "C... Clothes? Oh... It''s like this. Mr. Kallum feels it''s been rather cold recently, so we''ve adjusted the indoor temperature from sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit to eighty-two degrees Fahrenheit. I took the liberty to change the pajamas, and all the old ones have been discarded..." he said seriously.


    Calista frowned. "Buy some more clothes, then. I prefer the style from before."


    Sweat poured down Paul''s forehead. "I... I can''t make that decision. We need to consult Mr. Kallum first..."


    For the first time, he rudely hung up the phone after saying those words, praying that Calista wouldn''t call again.


    Indeed, Calista didn''t call back. She stared at the phone in her hand, her eyebrows raised in contemtion, but eventually gave up, changed into a fresh set of pajamas, and started blow-drying her hair.


    She was curious to see what exactly Kallum was nning to do!


    When Calista emerged, Kallum''s gaze was immediately drawn to her. The steamy mist had lent a touch of rosiness to her overly pale skin, and her damp hair clung to her silk nightgown. The nightgown, tailored to fit her measurements, entuated her figure perfectly. It was no doubt pajamas, but a rather sexy one.


    Initially, Kallum merely wanted to have a feast for his eyes. Not being able to touch was already a severe punishment in itself, so he sought tofort himself in another way.


    Little did he imagine that this approach would cause his much-prided self-control to crumble in an instant. His Adam''s apple bobbed continuously, and only then did he remember that he had no self-control in front of Calista!


    Pleasure filled Calista at the sight of


    Kallum''s reaction. With a chilly expression on her face, she walked over, stood before him, and looked down at him with her arms crossed over her chest, exuding an air of regal dominance.


    "Is this outfit your idea? What are you trying to achieve?"


    Kallum tried to divert his gaze, eventually settling on her face. Under the glow of the lights, her pupils shone brighter than a multitude of stars. His breath hitched, almost as if a hand had delicately grasped his heart. His gaze, no doubt, carried the look of infatuation.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    "I... I just thought you''d look good this way."


    His voice was extremely raspy. Compared to Calista''s icy demeanor, his blood was circting rapidly, almost like it was zing with mes.


    Calista raised an eyebrow, her expression far from pleasant.


    "So, you want to look because you can''t touch? Kallum, aren''t you perhaps a bit too desperate, hmm?"


    Her high-pitched voice toward the


    end of the sentence instantly set Kallum''s ears on fire, and her calling his name simply sent a strange thrilling sensation through his entire body. Have I been driven to abnormality by something that''s


    beyond my reach?


    Seeing Kallum shut his eyes in frustration, Calista leaned in closer. Her long hair cascaded down his knees, a cool fragrance wafting in the air.


    "You look like you''re really desperate," she concluded.


    Sure enough, the very next second, she was abruptly pulled into the arms of the man who was longing for her!


    He was breathing heavily next to her ear, and in a nearly frantic manner, he uttered, "Don''t move!"


    He tightened his grip, let go, then tightened it again.


    His voice was hoarse, almost as if being scorched by fire. "Let me hold you for a moment. Just a moment!"


    If possible, Calista would have wholeheartedly agreed. In her opinion, Kallum''s current state of mind was perilous.


    He might''ve suppressed himself too


    much because of his illness,


    resulting in him having such extreme


    desires. It''s normal for one to be more radical when their life is under threat. Some would choose to suppress their emotions, some inflict harm upon others, while others simply ept their fate. It''s obvious Kallum is the kind that chooses to suppress himself. The burden of his family alone has already left him gasping for breath. If he dies, it wouldn''t just affect him, so how would he dare die in such a circumstance? And with that extreme repression, it''s only right he needs an outlet to vent his feelings. So, from how things are now, it seems like he''s venting it on me, huh? Perhaps it''s because I''m the only one who''s willing to approach him, or maybe there are other reasons, but clearly, this situation is putting me in great danger.

 Chapter 165 Complete Trust

    If Kallum knew about the nonsensical thoughts going through her mind, he would surely burst outughing and tell her that what overwhelmed him was his desire for her, and that was why he could only vent it on her. It was that desire thatpelled him to throw all caution to the wind to possess her and pull her into the depths of his obsession, ultimately descending into hell together.


    Kallum held her even tighter, seemingly as if he wished to meld her into his very being.


    "Callie..."


    He called out her name helplessly. Calista was being held so tightly she couldn''t move, and the utterance of her name sent a shiver down her body.


    Her body tensed up. What do I do if Kallum needs a woman to vent his frustrations? I can''t possibly offer myself to him, but finding him a woman is out of the question! What a headache!


    The two nestled tightly together on the single-seater couch. In the utterly quiet room, Calista could distinctly hear Kallum''s ragged breaths and pounding heartbeat.


    As his grip tightened, he cautiously explored her body as if he were handling some valuable treasure. The spots he touched left her trembling involuntarily, and she figured that if this continued, it would spell danger.


    Calista gritted her teeth and wriggled her body, but Kallum only hugged her even tighter. No matter how many sweet nothings he yearned to whisper, and no matter how deep his desire, it could only culminate in a mere embrace. He felt as though he was on the brink of madness, driven to the edge by his longing for her.


    "Kallum... C-Calm down a bit!"


    I can''t stay calm! There''s no way I can calm down!


    Calista struggled to free a hand and gently patted his back. "Calm down. If you''re feeling ufortable, how about I apany you to the gym?"


    Kallum didn''t respond, but with Calista''s gentle pats, his tense body oddly began to rx gradually.


    "Callie..."


    "Mmm..."


    "Callie."


    "Mm-hmm."


    I love you.


    He mouthed these three words, not making a sound, but Calista''s head was pressed against his shoulder, so she didn''t see it. They remained in this embrace for over ten minutes.


    Sensing that Kallum''s physical reactions were gradually subsiding, Calista let out a long sigh of relief. Well, he definitely brought this upon himself. If he couldn''t handle the provocation, why did he make me wear something like this?


    After being released, she sat on hisp, panting. She felt as if her bones were about to be squeezed out of shape.


    She couldn''t help but turn back to re at Kallum, but surprisingly, she found that his face had turned bright red!


    Isn''t it a littlete to y the innocent now? You brute!


    Catching sight of Calista''s condemning gaze, Kallum surprisingly turned his face away in embarrassment. I almost couldn''t control the surge of passion within me... Luckily, I''m still rational enough.


    "I... I''ll have Paul change your pajamas tomorrow."


    Kallum hade to terms with hisck of self-control. To avoid hurting her in a moment of irrationality, he figured it was best not to hastily grant himself any privileges.


    Calista nodded, feeling that everything that had just happened was an unwarranted disaster. She could only hope that Kallum would continue to stay rational. Although she wasn''t afraid of the K Virus, she absolutely didn''t want to experience its effects again. The acupuncture session that followed left the two in an even more awkward situation.


    Throughout, Kallum had his face buried in the pillow, appearing shy. Calista couldn''t help but want to sneer at that. The sick do have a lot of iprehensible emotions, huh?


    Hopefully, Old Mr. Yancey can eh?


    quickly find a cure for the KVirus, otherwise, I feel like I''ll lose my sanity soon, too.


    Kallum, whoy obediently on the bed, was actually holding his breath.


    Being unable to see, hear, or smell, his sense of touch was more than ever sensitive. He felt that he would go insane even before his death came because the mere existence of Calista was enough to drive him to insanity.


    A peculiar sense of pleasure washed over Kallum as Calista administered the acupuncture. The way he allowed her to have her way with him, this level of trust and intimacy, was something no one else could ever achieve. Their rtionship was the closest one could possibly be.


    All desires, distortions, and madness were forcefully suppressed beneath a veneer of calmness. After administering the acupuncture, Calista was extremely exhausted, so she retired to sleep after briefly instructing a few things.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Despite being held in Kallum''s arms


    and having to share a bed with him, she couldn''t find the energy to resist as she was too tired. But before sleep fully imed her, she was


    resolute to cure Kallum ass


    as


    possible so that she could escape this room, for she was finding it increasingly hard to breathe.


    What she didn''t realize was, that had she truly seeded, she might not be able to escape that room ever again.


    The hour or two following his


    acupuncture treatment was the period when Kallum found himself in the mostfort, with his physical pain miraculously subsiding. He


    cuddled Calista in his embraceci. no


    eyes inadvertently straying to ces they shouldn''t. His emotions rose and fell unpredictably, much like a roller coaster ride.


    Seeing Calista so peacefully asleep,pletely oblivious, was a testament to the trust she had in him. After all, what else could it be, if notplete trust, that would allow one to rx in the presence of a potentially dangerous patient? "I''ve really lost to you..." Kallum pinched Calista''s nose, his expression blissful-looking.


    If it weren''t for the threat of death, this moment would truly be blissful.


    Kallum''s will to live had once again intensified. He couldn''t bear to die just like that, not because of anything else, but solely because of her.


    Kallum nted a kiss on Calista''s forehead, feeling almost like a sacred act of adoration.


    While they were basking in warmth and sweetness, a storm was brewing on the other side.

 Chapter 166 Study Abroad

    The thought of being expelled sent Quincy into a frenzy of destruction. I''ve already started my educationte. Am I now expected to retake and re-sit the exams? I doubt I could even pass them! Why is it that at the same age of eighteen, I have to repeat a year to prepare for my university entrance exam, while Calista can skip several grades to pursue herbined master''s and doctoral program? A genius? What a remarkable genius! This time, Yelena did not bother with Benedict. She didn''t see the point of behaving subserviently to gain favor when her only daughter had suffered such a blow. It would be better tofort her daughter, lest she be so devastated that she couldn''t recover. "Quincy, don''t be upset! If you don''t go to Bayview University, you can go somewhere else. There are plenty of good universities out there. We''re not short-"


    Quincy simply couldn''t keep her cool. Right in front of Yelena, she flipped the entire dressing table. "What''s the point of my existence? In a few years, Calista will be seen as a genius in everyone''s eyes! I''m being overshadowed to the point of insignificance! Even Dad supports Calista, and Granddad won''t back me up! I''m nothing but a joke!"


    The sound of shattering echoed, scattering debris all over the floor. With a heart filled with distress, Yelena embraced her daughter tightly. "Don''t be upset. Don''t be upset. You still have me!"


    "What good are you?" Tears welled up in Quincy''s eyes. "I want Calista dead! Can you help me kill someone?"


    The more Quincy thought about it, the more desperate she felt. The mocking gazes of those at the school were still vivid in her mind. She feared she had already be theughingstock of the entire Horington.


    "Quincy... How about this? You should study abroad!" Yelena suddenly suggested, and the more she thought about it, the more feasible it seemed. "Calista is now favored in the Fairchild family, and she''s conceited. We shouldn''t confront her head-on. Give it some time. Mr. Kallum might grow tired of her. We can deal with her by then. There''s no rush."


    "You want me to flee to another country?" Quincy''s voice was filled with disbelief. "What about Granddad? Is he just going to stand by and watch me get bullied?"


    Seeing her emotional state, Yelena had no choice but to reveal the Langley family''s ns to her.


    "Remember when your granddad was publicly humiliated by Calistast time? There''s no way he''d let that slide. But being the cautious man he is and with the Fairchild family watching his every move, he couldn''t make any drastic moves. But given the chance, he''d surely make Calista pay!" Yelena said.


    Quincy''s mood instantly cooled down when she heard that Calista was going to be in trouble. However, her expression still held a hint of distortion.


    "How much longer?" Quincy was growing impatient, eager to see Calista''s unfortunate predicament.


    Yelena disyed a troubled expression. "All these things aren''t the crux of the matter. You''re the important one now! You should first go abroad and further your studies. When you return, you need to surpass Calista firmly. That''s what truly matters!"


    Seeing Quincy''s displeasure, Yelena reluctantly said, "When the timees for your granddad to deal with Calista, I''ll call you back, okay? Calista is quite malicious now. If you stay, who knows what she might do to you!"


    Upon hearing this, Quincy agreed. Who knows what else that ruthless woman, Calista, might do?


    "All right! I''m heading overseas, Mom. You must make sure Granddad gives Calista a thorough lesson! A real thorough one!"


    "Of course! I understand," Yelena assured wholeheartedly, yet deep inside, wave of worry began to swell. That''s the current n... Quincy has to excel on her own. Otherwise, that man might not acknowledge her in the future, even if he were to have no children of his


    own.


    Upon learning that Quincy was


    nning to go abroad, Calista didn''t


    react much. She had initially nned to wait until Kallum had recovered before dealing with those people. That approach would aplish more with less, and there would be no more surprises. The Langley family and the Wolford family will no longer be my match in the future! After all, the Fairchild family wouldn''t ignore the debt of a life saved! I''ll just let Quincy enjoy her freedom for


    a little while longer.


    Seeing Calista''s cold expression, Benedict couldn''t help but sigh, asking, "Could you see Quincy off on the day she leaves?"


    Calista raised an eyebrow, drawing the attention of passing students who couldn''t help but steal a few extra nces at her. She was looking at Benedict, surprised that he would go to school and make such an unexpected request of her. "I believe thest person Quincy wants to see is probably me."


    Benedict was skeptical. His temples


    with white, and


    were streaked w


    recently, the chaos of family affairs had truly left him in a state of distress, However, he still harbored a certain kind of innocence and hope against the odds. "Does a family hole grudges overnight? Both you and Quincy were at fault in thest incident. Can''t we just let bygones be bygones?"


    Calista scoffed, observing her father, who appeared both pitiful and naive. "Dad, constantly backing down doesn''t always lead to harmony, and maintaining an appearance of peace doesn''t make everything fine. The moment I crashed the Langley family''s wedding banquet, my ties with Quincy and Yelena were severed. We''re no longer one family."Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Upon noticing Benedict''s furrowed brows, as if he were about to lecture again, Calista added in a rather cold-blooded manner, "You don''t need to feel indignant on their behalf. In their hearts, they only see the Langley family as their family. Do you really believe they value you that much? You''re just deluding yourself. When pushes to shove, they''ll sacrifice you for their family without a second thought, and they won''t feel a shred of guilt."


    When Calista pointed it out so bluntly, Benedict''s face couldn''t help but fall. "Callie! Why do you always think the worst of them? There''s a big misunderstanding between you guys! Yelena watched you grow up. I believe she still..."

 Chapter 167 A Year Later

    "Loves me?" Calista couldn''t help but chuckle. Seeing the difort on Benedict''s face, she patted his shoulder and said, "Don''t force yourself if you can''t say it, Dad. I have to tell you that the Langley family already considers me an enemy. It''s time for you to face reality.'' The color drained from Benedict''s face. He brushed off Calista''s hand and opened his mouth before closing it again. He couldn''t utter a word in rebuttal.


    "All right, I''m off to ss now." Calista nced at the time and left with a smile.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    As Benedict watched Calista''s retreating figure, he let out a long sigh. He wasn''t clueless. He just yearned for the past harmony.


    There and then, he thought perhaps it was a good decision for Quincy to go abroad.


    The roar of a ne taking off filled the air as Quincy departed, carrying with her Yelena''s admonitions and her resentment toward Calista.


    In school, Calista seemed to sense something, her gaze drifting toward the sky. A cold smirk suddenly appeared on her face. When she reincarnated, her only thought had been to end things swiftly, to eliminate the person she despised the most. At that moment, however, she had suddenly beposed. Let''s y a cat-and-mouse game!


    A yearter, as soon as a figure appeared, the group of reporters at the school gate swarmed toward it.


    "Hurry! Hurry! Calista hase out!"


    Calista was engaged in conversation with someone nearby, her demeanor even colder and more resolute than a year ago. However, the hostile aura that used to surround her had significantly diminished. Mainly because, over the past year, all the annoying individuals had vanished from her life, allowing her to fully immerse herself in her research. In addition, her dealings with the Fairchild family had kept her mind intensely focused on conquering K Virus. She rarely reflected on her unpleasant past experiences. As a result, she was even more radiant and unstoppable than before.


    "Calista! Is it true that you developed MAC39? It''s reported that you''re only neen. How did you manage to do it? Who helped and inspired you?"


    "Calista! Calista! The introduction of the MAC39 vine will benefit women all over the world. With such an achievement under your belt, could you be the next head of the Stafford family?"


    "Calista, would you be interested in an interview for In Focus? The public has always been quite intrigued by you."


    Calista was just surrounded when two men behind her swiftly escorted her through the crowd, guiding her to a car not far away. It was clear they were some sort of bodyguards. However, upon seeing the car''s emblem, the reporters hesitated to go after her. After all, this was the car of the head of the Fairchild family. No one would dare to stay in its way.


    This goddaughter of the Fairchild family was indeed well-protected. Any reporter who managed to snap a photo and tried to fabricate stories would receive a stern warning from the Fairchild family, forcing them to erase the photo. As a result, since Calista became famous, there hadn''t been a single piece of negative news about her. Naturally, no one dared to be the first to break this trend.


    Once she got into the car, Calista let out an almost imperceptible sigh of relief. Although her face didn''t show it, her eyes reflected a significant amount of joy. Quintus, who had been with her for a long time, could naturally guess a bit of what she was thinking. Seeing her in a good mood, Quintus said, "Ms. Calista, Mr. Kallum is waiting for you at Havenrock Vi. Today is the big day of the medicine''sunch, and he wishes to celebrate this milestone with you."


    Calista was somewhat puzzled. "Why go to Havenrock Vi? Can''t we celebrate at Fairchild Manor?"


    Quintus certainly couldn''t admit that Fairchild Manor was teeming with people and that Kallum had long desired to have some private time with Calista alone.


    Hence, he answered earnestly, "Mr. Kallum mentioned that the new medicine has beenunched, but the specific response is still uncertain, so it''s not appropriate to make a big deal out of something. He wants to celebrate with you privately for now." When Calista heard his organized exnation, she didn''t probe any further. However, she did murmur to herself, "With his health in such a terrible state, why is he still running around? Ugh..."


    Although the research had been


    progressing steadily and Calista had been trying to prolong Kallum''s life, the inevitable decline of Kallum''s health was unavoidable. K Virus was too aggressive, and Kallum, not being of her constitution, was essentially fighting for his life each day. The fact that he could still move around was nothing short of a


    miracle.


    The small car followed the only road leading to Havenrock Vi. Surrounded by the azure sea, Havenrock Ind appeared like an isted haven, bathed in sunlight and exuding a sense of tranquil elegance.


    Upon arrival, Quintus didn''t stick around to be the third wheel. The entire mansion was devoid of people that day. Kallum had also put off all his official duties for the day, all in pursuit of an undisturbed vacation with Calista.


    When Calista saw Quintus drive


    away, she didn''t pay him any mind.


    Holding up her skirt, she headed toward the mansion. The delicious scent of food wafted out, making her realize she was somewhat hungry. However, as she reached the entrance, she suddenly paused in surprise. Kallum isn''t alone here, right?


    She hesitated slightly. If Kallum is alone here, could I leave?


    The main issue was the strange sensation she had gotten from Kallum over the past year. It was so peculiar. She would avoid him whenever possible during the day, but at night, there was no escaping him, no matter what she did.


    With a sense of hesitation, Calista


    pushed open the grand doors. The


    entire house was adorned in a dreamy mix of pink and baby blue. Colorful balloons floated around the grand hall, and a long table wasden with various delicacies. The aroma of wine and grilled meat filled the air. Beyond the windows was a beach and the vast sea. Despite the beautiful atmosphere, she felt a sense of retreat, for indeed, no one else was around.


    "Are you looking for me?"


    Suddenly, a maic male voice echoed in her ears. Calista snapped back to reality and turned to look, only to see Kallum, dressed in a well-tailored deep blue leisure suit, smiling warmly at her.

 Chapter 168 Her True Self

    "Dear Callie, I''ve been waiting for you for a long time," he said.


    Calista furrowed her brows. Not because she was overthinking things, but because she genuinely felt that Kallum''s choice of words was odd.


    "Didn''t you mention throwing a celebration for me? Why is it just you?"


    Kallum subtly raised an eyebrow, his deep purple eyes concealing a hint of danger, yet his smile didn''t falter in the slightest. "Who else were you hoping to see?" Calista took a half step back, attempting to maintain herposure as she said, "Ambrose also mentioned he wanted to congratte me. Maybe " "Do you want to invite him along?"Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Kallum''s smile seemed to twist for a moment, but it was very subtle. Despite Calista maintaining a cold facade, she feltpletely unable to suppress him. Hence, she pursed her lips, remaining silent.


    Kallum suddenlyughed, his smile shimmering like the brightest diamond, illuminating everything around with its radiance.


    "Actually, there''s no need for you to be so tense." Kallum picked up a ss of red wine beside him and took a sip with narrowed eyes. "He was your first patient to recover under your care. It''s only natural for you to feel a bit more fond of him than others." Calista let out an almost imperceptible sigh. She then heard Kallum say in a soft voice, "I just dislike the way Jarrett looks at you, that''s all."


    Ironically, those two brothers were close. Whenever Ambrose was around, Jarrett was sure to be there as well.


    However, Calista was Kallum''s, and she was the only one he ever wanted. Yet, Jarrett was coveting her. Thankfully, Kallum had always restrained himself and hadn''t done anything drastic. Otherwise, a terrifying storm might have swept through Horington. Calista let out a sigh. "Just the two of us, then. Given your current condition, you shouldn''t be drinking. After this ss, no more."


    Obediently, Kallum set down his ss. He then checked her out and said, "But you can drink a bit more. It''s rare to see you so happy. This is also an acknowledgment of your abilities in the outside world!"


    A hint of a smile appeared on Calista''s face when those words fell. "That''s true. I''m really happy."


    At school that day, she maintained an unruffled demeanor throughout. It was only when she returned home that she could reveal her true self.


    Over the course of a year spent in close quarters with Kallum, he became like family, like a friend, yet there was a slight distance between them. Unknowingly, he had be the person she felt most at ease with. Moreover, since she knew that Kallum would never pose any threat to her, she feltpletely at ease getting drunk in his presence.


    "This drink isn''t too bad. Crown Russe vodka... It''s quite strong, fitting for your current mood."


    Calista took the ss, disying an air of boldness, and drained the clear liquor in one gulp. Her tolerance for alcohol was high, so a couple of shots of strong liquor posed no problem for her.


    Once she had finished her drink, Kallum selected another from an array of different sses. He held it up and took a sniff. His act of lightly inhaling was refined and elegant, exuding an inherent grace that radiated from within. "Johnnie Walker Red Label whiskey. Rich and aromatic. Would you like to give it a try?" he asked.


    Perhaps it was the strong liquor getting to her but when Calista saw him looking at her with a smile, she found herself inexplicably parched Instinctively, she reached for the drink Even though the ss wasn''t filled to the brim, she didn''t down it imone gulp as before but savored it instead.


    "Are these from your personal collection?" she couldn''t help asking.


    Kallum shook his head, a hint of arrogance in his eyes. "No, I don''t usually drink, but there are many who gift me alcohol each year. Besides, the Fairchild family owns a distillery, so our cer is never short of good alcohol. Naturally, there''s no need for me to collect any."


    This also indirectly showcased the profound heritage of the Fairchild family. As one of the Fairchilds, one had every reason to be proud.


    Alcohol could lower one''s inhibitions, and Calista couldn''t help but ask again, "Many people have their own hobbies, like my passion for medical research. What about you? I don''t seem to have noticed any particr hobbies of yours." Kallum blinked. "I''m really into you!"


    "Huh?" Calista suddenly became cautious.


    Seeing her gaze fixed on him, Kallumughed and pulled her to sit beside him. In a serious tone, he exined, "Right now, the only one who woulde close to me is you. Apart from you, what else could I possibly like?" Calista found it somewhat peculiar, yet it seemed to make some sense. Just as she was about to say something, Kallum reached out and brought over the third ss of alcohol, its distinct aroma discernible even from a distance. "This is Ricard anisette. It has a unique taste and isn''t too strong. Would you like to give it a try?" he asked.


    Calista had heard of this particr brand of alcohol before and was somewhat curious. She brought it over, took a careful sip, and found that she liked it. Therefore, she ended up drinking it all in one go. "Indeed, there''s a strong taste of fennel! Intriguing!"


    After a few drinks, a blush gradually


    spread across Calista''s usually stoic face. Her eyes glistened, and even though she maintained a stern expression, she radiated an


    irresistible charm. At that m


    Kallum found himself longing to kiss her captivating eyes. However, he restrained himself, knowing that the timing was not yet right.


    Hence, Kallum brought over another ss of alcohol, his purple eyes twinkling slightly. "This is Remy Martin Louis XIII, not too shabby. Want to give it a try?"


    Calista nodded, feeling a bit dizzy at the moment. However, there was nothing to fear. Kallum couldn''t touch her, and his life was in her hands. He could only serve her.


    Therefore, while she might need to be worried around others, she had absolutely no need to when she was with him.


    As soon as Calista took a hearty sip of her drink, Kallum, who had been somewhat tense, rxed slightly. He moved a little closer to her, his eyes fixed intently on her without blinking. "Do you know something?"

 Chapter 169 Childhood Friends

    "Sometimes, you''re like Spirytus rectified spirit vodka, so strong it feels like it could pierce through someone."


    Kallum spoke, and to her surprise, he actually took a sip of the alcohol. Under Calista''s slightly intoxicated gaze, he suddenly kissed her lips. It was a gentle touch, yet his breath was even hotter than the alcohol. "You..." Calista suddenly felt that something was off, but the alcohol had numbed her senses, making it impossible for her to react. Coupled with her implicit trust in Kallum, she found herself not pulling away when he kissed her.


    Kallum raised his eyebrows and smiled. His fingertips gently brushed against her face. He slowly said, "Sometimes, you remind me of a botrytis-affected wine, sweet with a hint of sourness, rich and lingering. One taste of you, and it''s hard to forget." Initially, Calista had no idea what he was up to that day. Her eyes were solely focused on the botrytis-affected wine he had brought out. However, upon seeing him down it all in one go and then frown, she suddenly realized something and gasped softly. "Today is your birthday!"


    A clear flicker of frustration shed across Calista''s face. Once upon a time, she had always remembered this day vividly. However, in her previous life, during those final years, she had spent each day in hiding, subconsciously choosing to forget everything about Kallum. Moreover, in her entire life, she had never celebrated Kallum''s birthday with him. A year ago, he had his birthday in Lostaria, a ce she hadn''t visited yet. That day, however, was Kallum''s twenty-fourth birthday.


    Kallum was also taken aback. He hadn''t expected that Calista would know it was his birthday. In the past, he seldom celebrated it and had never told her the exact date. Well, perhaps Wanda had informed her, but he was surprised that she actually remembered it. Calista''s face turned even redder, her eyes brimming with self-doubt.


    "How could I forget? I remember it clearly. How did I forget?" Her thoughts were a bit muddled, her words following suit. In her previous life, she recalled Wanda mentioning that Kallum rarely celebrated his birthday due to his busy schedule. However, he had a habit of tasting different alcohol on his birthday, which was how she remembered it.


    Hearing her say that, Kallum held his breath, feeling as if the joy in his heart was about to overflow. Could it be that Callie has been making a heartfelt effort to remember my birthday?


    "I don''t me you. It''s understandable if you''ve forgotten, given how busy you''ve beentely." That was truly what Kaiser felt inside. He was already overjoyed that Calista remembered his birthday, happier than receiving any gift or closing any deal. Calista took a gloomy sip of her drink, grabbing a strong liquor straight away and downing several sses in session. "I should have prepared a gift!"


    It was rare for Kallum to detect frustration from her indifferent tone. Seeing that she was genuinely drunk, he no longer restrained himself, letting his gaze reveal tangible affection. Due to the fact that he was in high spirits, he seemed to radiate light. "You are the greatest gift. I don''t need anything else."


    After he finished speaking, he couldn''t help but yearn to kiss her face. Unexpectedly, he was stopped by Calista''s firm hands.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum lowered his gaze, and there it was, the most radiant smile Calista had ever shown, after all this time. "Let me take you somewhere!"


    As she spoke, she took Kallum by the hand and led him outside. Kallum was entirely captivated by her radiant smile just moments ago, and before he knew it, he was actually following her. Once they were in the car, she confidently said, "Let''s head to Maple Tree Garden near Fairchild Manor!"


    Though Kallum had consumed some alcohol, his tolerance was undoubtedly immense. He drove steadily, heading straight for the suburbs.


    When she said Maple Tree Garden, Kallum immediately knew where Calista wanted to go. Maple Tree Garden was where Calista''s grandparents used to live. Later, he heard rumors that it had been burned down by an unknown person.


    At that moment, Kallum couldn''t help feeling puzzled. Why go if it''s already been burned down? Perhaps now that Callie is drunk, she has forgotten about the ce being burned down.


    After reaching Maple Tree Garden,


    Calista led Kallum up the hill. Long-forgotten memories burst forth, and Kallum vaguely remembered that, as a child, his mother had brought him to visit these two elders. Back then, a little girt of about eight or nine had also pulled him along, just like that. Back then, he wore a look of impatience on his face. However, they were still childhood friends.


    Kallum''s personality was indeed very extreme. There was a time when any recollection would only bring him agitation and unpleasant memories. However after falling in love with her, those memories transformed into their own unique, sweet recollections. He even felt an impulse to travel back in time and punch his past self. How could I


    have treated Callie like that in the


    past? I was truly blind!


    At that moment, Calista suddenly tripped over a protruding stone. Kallum quickly rushed to steady her.


    Feeling the effects of the alcohol, Calista found it difficult to control her limbs. Seeing her in this state, Kallum took the opportunity to get closer to her. He gently held her as they slowly made their way toward the small wooden hut.


    The sunlight filtered through the forest, casting a dappled pattern on the ground. An epassing silence held the area, broken only asionally by the call of a bird.


    As expected, Calista was indeed intoxicated. Her eyes sparkled brightly as she alternated her gaze between the trees and Kallum, her mind seemingly lost in unknown thoughts.


    Kallum suddenly had a feeling. It


    was the same when Calista was


    druggedst time as if her personality had reverted to the way it used to be. Could it be that when she gets drunk, her dominant. character will fade away, revealing her original personality? Could it be possible to ask her about her past experiences and why her demeanor changed so drastically?

 Chapter 170 An Understatement

    Once this thought had taken root, it spread like wild grass. No matter how close they were, it was never enough for Kallum. He wanted to infiltrate Calista''s life, to bind her tightly to himself. Naturally, he was curious about what Calista had been through. Unfortunately, he usually didn''t dare to ask, always feeling that the answer might not be favorable to him. However, things had changed.


    "Where are you taking me?" asked Kallum.


    Bewildered, Calista nced at him. "I''m bringing you to my grandparents'' ce."


    "Why?"


    Calista shook his head, refusing to speak.


    "Why are we going there?"


    Kallum moved closer, and to his surprise, he noticed that Calista seemed to blush. She didn''t dare to look at him, and even the palm of her hand that he was holding started to sweat. "I-I''m giving you a s-surprise..."


    After she stuttered out her words, she suddenly let go of Kallum''s hand and staggered up the mountain.


    Suddenly, a wave of joy washed over Kallum. Was Calista feeling shy? Indeed, she must still harbor feelings for me!


    With that in mind, he quickened his pace to catch up, his eyebrows arched in a broad, unmistakable smile.


    However, once she arrived at the wooden hut, Calista was taken aback. Tears immediately began to fall, even she didn''t understand why she was crying.


    Back when everything was aze, she mustered the courage to burn all her bridges, not shedding a single tear. Later on, she didn''t even have the slightest inclination to look back.


    Once it was burnt, it was gone. If it was gone, there was nothing left to see.


    Yet, when she was drunk, it seemed as if she had truly reverted back to her old self, far from the calm she exhibited when sober. She stood there crying so sorrowfully that it instantly disconcerted Kallum. "Don''t cry..." he urged.


    He hadn''t expected such an intense reaction from Calista. He clumsily wiped her tears, nced at the ruins, and assured her earnestly, "Don''t worry. I''ll find out who was bold enough to burn this ce down!"


    When the house was discovered to be on fire, because Calista expressed indifference, the Stafford family merely reported the incident but didn''t pay attention to the progress of the case. Therefore, up until then, there hadn''t been any news. Seeing Calista so heartbroken, Kallum wished he could drag out the arsonist and tear him to pieces. His tone was filled with murderous intent.


    "No need..." Calista sobbed, wiping her eyes as she choked out, "I burned it myself..."


    Kallum was taken aback for a moment. His expression twisted momentarily, but he still continued tofort her by saying, "Um... Good job. If you''re regretting it, tell me the kind of style you like? I can build another one for you." Calista didn''t pay him any attention, but her sobs slowly began to quiet down.


    Kallum, with a pang of distress, offered her a handkerchief. A sharp glint shed momentarily in his purple eyes. "Why did you burn it in the first ce if you couldn''t bear to part with it?"


    Calista gradually stopped crying. She used a handkerchief to wipe her face clean, her eyes, red and swollen, fixed on the ruins.


    "Because I couldn''t afford to be weak anymore..."


    Kallum, with his keen awareness, realized that he might be on the brink of uncovering the secret. His Adam''s apple bobbed before he finally asked, "Did someone hurt you?"


    He then pondered, deciding to follow his heart, and said softly, "Actually, you can still live like before. I''ll take care of you. Even if I''m gone, I''ll ensure your life is smooth sailing."


    His tone was firm, yet Calista merely nced at him, letting out a muted humph.


    "You despise me. As long as it''s out of your sight, you wouldn''t care about my death or how I die!" she responded.


    Perhaps it was her earnest tone thatContent protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    made Kallum''s heart skip a beat, prompting him to immediately assure her with utmost seriousness, "How Could that be possible? I would never let anything happen to you! Regardless of whether I can see or not!"


    Yet, it seemed as though Calista hadn''t heard him, giving him a peculiar look. "Forget about it. I''m already used to you not liking me."


    To Kallum, that was nothing less than a colossal defamation.


    If he were sober, Kallum would never utter words rted to emotions. This had be an unspoken agreement between him and Calista. But then, as Calista was drunk and questioning his feelings, he felt even more terrified. "Calista, listen to me!" Kallum ced his hands on her shoulders. "I really like you. No... That''s an understatement. I love you! More than you can ever imagine!"


    Bewildered, Calista stared into his eyes, yet it felt as if she had been pierced by a thorn.


    "Liar!" Calista suddenly snapped in anger, pping his hand away. She turned to leave but was held back by Kallum.


    His gaze was intense, and deep within his eyes, there was a powerful emotion so strong it was almost overwhelming. "I''m not lying!"


    He studied her with aplex gaze for a long time. In the end, his voice lowered, yet the weight of each word he spoke became heavier.


    "If I hadn''t loved you so deeply, I


    would have certainly dragged you to hell with me! Do you know what torments me the most every day? It''s not the uncertainty of life o death, but the dilemma of whether to possess you!"


    His voice gradually grew hoarse, yet his expression subtly hinted at madness.


    "Possessing you is akin to killing you! Perhaps in the end, neither of us would die, but it would still cause you great pain. If I could love you a little less, I would drag you into hell with me, disregarding your life or death, all to derive the utmost pleasure from you! Anything goes, but you can''t question my feelings for you!" he said.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 171 The Perfect Cover

    Calista was a bit dazed by his words, and it seemed she didn''t quite understand. She pursed her lips, insisting on her point, yelling, "You don''t like me!"


    "You!" Kallum red at her, only to see her looking back at him defiantly, her eyes red and sparkling, much like a stubborn little beast. Why am I even bothering to argue with a little drunkard?


    Kallum let out a sigh, deciding to sidestep the topic. "What did you bring me here for? The house has been burnt down, and there''s nothing left. What do we do now?"


    With her lower lip caught between her teeth, Calista muttered a few words and led him further up the hill. To their surprise, they stumbled upon a small cave in the hillside, into which she promptly crawled.


    Kallum found it amusing. As a child, Calista was raised by her grandparents, a pair of traditional old folks. They brought her up just like an ancient maiden, with rules and expectations for every word and action. It was hard to imagine that she had such a secret hideout when she was little.


    Upon entering, a variety of items were scattered on the ground. There were worn-out rag dolls, little dresses adorned withce, and so on. Meanwhile, Calista was rummaging through the stuff on the floor.


    "Is this where you spent your childhood?" he asked.


    Without looking back, Calista responded, "Yeah, my grandpa didn''t like it when I yed with dolls, nor did he approve of me wearing those short dresses..." Kallum suddenly felt a pang of sympathy for her. As a child, she had to learn so much, her days were filled with exhaustion, and she had little time to herself. "Well... Do you still like them?" Kallum pondered. If Callie still held affection for them, he could provide her with a room filled with dolls and princess dresses. "No... I never liked them... Otherwise, they wouldn''t be here now."


    The ce was filthy, so it couldn''t possibly reflect any form of affection. When she was a child, her father would bring over dresses and dolls, all of which her grandfather would throw away. She had to retrieve these items secretly. "You don''t like them? Then why did you hide them here?" Kallum asked.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, Calista found something, and her eyes lit up. "Because they''re the perfect cover!"


    Before Kallum could utter a word, he caught a faint whiff of alcohol. Raising an eyebrow slightly, he walked over. At the narrow end, he had no choice but to crouch down. Both of them were like children, heads together, digging for treasure. "What is this?"


    "Alcohol!" Calista eximed, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction as she carefully unearthed a small bottle. She chuckled and said, "I remember Mrs. Fairchild once mentioned that on your birthday, you would always take the day off to enjoy some alcohol all by yourself. Apparently, you''ve been doing this since you were young!"


    A significant tremor stirred within the heart of Kallum when he heard those words.


    He stared at the bottle in Calista''s hand, licked his parched lips, and after a moment of struggle, he asked, "So... Is this the birthday gift you prepared for me?"


    Calista nodded, and her previously excited face fell once again. "But every time I went to see you on your birthday, you refused to see me..."


    With a sense of loneliness, she reburied the bottle, whispering, "Back then, I buried one bottle per year. I thought I would then give them to you when I had the chance in the future..."


    Kallum''s heart pounded fiercely. He reached out, for the first time, humbling himself to touch the soil. He dug slowly, revealing eight or nine bottles, each of a different size.


    He wanted to say something, but it was as if his voice was stuck. Only Calista was quietly counting the bottles.


    "One... Two... Nine! I''ve buried this many since I was nine years old!" With a satisfied expression, Calista asked somewhat mysteriously, "Do you know the kind of risk I took back then?"


    As she leaned in to speak, she cast a sidelong nce outside the cave, as if anticipating a stern old man to appear any second.


    "Alcohol was banned in our house! My grandpa, in his youth, had suffered greatly because of alcohol. That''s why he was so furious when my father, under the influence, made a mistake and ended up marrying Yelena."


    Crouched down, Calista moved a little closer toward Kallum, her face full of caution. Her eyes, however, held a hint of mischief.


    "That''s why I used these dolls and clothes as a cover. Thest time my grandpa found out, he just scolded me a bit and didn''t check any further. I sessfully managed to keep my alcohol!"


    She seemed quite pleased with herself for having managed to deceive her stern grandfather, her voice growing louder as she spoke.


    "Do you know what I used to brew my alcohol?" Calista asked, unting her knowledge before Kallum.


    Kallum really couldn''t imagine what a nine-year-old girl could use to brew alcohol. He wanted to respond, but he found himself unable to utter a single word. Instead, he just stared at her with an intense gaze, as if he could see through her to the little girl who used to match wits and courage with her grandfather.


    Upon noticing Kallum''s gaze fixed on her, Calista felt certain he was dying to know. So, she boasted, "I used fruits! There''s a forest behind the hill that''s full of fruits. I didn''t dare to steal rice because my would notice. Hence, I


    used fruits instead!"


    As she spoke, her eyes grew brighter. Even in the dimly lit cave, it seemed as if her pupils were filled with stars. "Do you know how I discovered the method for brewing alcohol? Back when I was in school, I had my deskmate look it upon their phone for me! I''m pretty sure I didn''t mess up the steps and the process. After all this time, it must taste amazing!"


    Calista dug out the first bottle of alcohol she had buried, shaking it in anticipation. Hearing the sloshing of liquid inside, she squinted her eyes, eager to uncork the bottle and take a sip.

 Chapter 172 His Secret

    However, Kallum swiftly stopped her.


    Although the bottles of alcohol were sealed tightly, Kallum knew very well that fruit wine shouldn''t be stored for long. This bottle must''ve gone bad. I can''t let her drink it! Hence, he quickly snatched it away.


    "What''s the matter?" Calista tilted her head and looked at him, clearly discontented. "I''ve been hiding it for so long! Why won''t you let me drink it?"


    Kallum paused for a moment and said with great seriousness, "All of these are mine! Didn''t you say you buried them for me? No one else can touch them but me!"


    A look of realization dawned on Calista''s face as she said in a hushed tone, "That''s right... It''s all yours... Since it''s your birthday, are you willing to see me now?"


    Once again, Kallum felt the urge to give his past self a good beating. He looked at her intently, his voice deep and serious. "As long as I''m alive, I want to spend every one of my birthdays with you... If you''d only give me the chance." Seeing him grasp her hand, Calista pulled back a bit petntly. "You never used to pay me any attention! What''s your hidden agenda?"


    Kallum truly felt nonplussed. The whimsical thoughts of the little drunkard are indeed fantastical, but why is she so endearing?


    "I don''t have any hidden agendas. I was blind before, but now I can see." Seeing that Calista was still quite upset, Kallum tried to cate her, asking, "Do you know why I like to drink on my birthday?"


    Calista''s ears twitched, but she didn''t look at him.


    Seeing her interest, Kallum cleared his throat and said, "If you forgive me, I''ll tell you. I haven''t shared this secret with anyone else!"


    "Have you also never told Mirabelle?" Calista mumbled, her voiceced with a hint of bitterness. For some reason, this made Kallum feel a warm surge in his chest. Mysteriously, all his physical pain seemed to vanish.


    He looked at Calista, his gaze filled with unparalleled tenderness.


    "No. She''s nothing but a liar. She couldn''t evenpare to a single strand of your hair, Callie..." He reached for her hand once more. "Give me a chance. Would you let me share a secret with you?"


    Calista felt it was about time, so she begrudgingly turned toward him. "All right, go ahead and speak!"


    Her voice held a reluctant tone, but in reality, her eyes were alight with curiosity and interest, seemingly taking delight in being the first to know a secret. Seeing her like this, no one would believe that she wasn''tpletely in love with Kallum. Kallum stifled the sorrow welling in his eyes. If I had fallen for her sooner, wouldn''t we have made such a blissful couple?


    He forced a bitter smile and gathered his energy to say, "When I was around six or seven years old, I once sneaked some alcohol and got drunk. In my drunken stupor, I identally broke my grandpa''s antique. You should remember my grandpa, he really liked you. Heplimented you every time he saw you."


    "I remember..." Calista''s pale, delicate fingers touched her chin. "He always used to give me the most delicious candies."Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum''s gaze was gentle. "Yes. That


    was him. He was always kind to you,


    but he was very strict with me. When


    I broke his favorite antique, he scolded me harshly. He forbade me from drinking alcohol and scolded me in front of the entire family. He said if I continued to be impulsive, I wouldn''t achieve anything in the future."


    Kallum''s refined voice echoed within the small cave,ced with a hint ofughter and warmth.


    "He passed away?" A trace of destion flickered in Calista''s eyes.


    "Back then, I was utterly indignant, finding him truly unbearable! Thus, from that moment on, I never exchanged another word with him, not a single one. Then, after half a year, he passed away. Before his death, he transferred all his shares to me, which I could inherit once I turned eighteen."


    "Mmm, he passed away." Kallum stroked her hair. "His death coincided with my birthday. The house was all set for a celebration, but his departure was so abrupt. That was my first encounter with death. It left a deep impression on me, especially when he held my hand and spoke during hisst


    moments. It scared me a bit bet


    couldn''t show my fear. That night, I couldn''t sleep. Whenever insomnia struck, hisst words to me would echo in my mind. Some of it I didn''t understand, and it felt like a heavy burden. I remembered that alcohol could blur the edges of reality, so I had a few drinks and finally managed to get a good night''s sleep. In the following years, every time my birthday came around, I would lie awake at night. Memories of my grandpa''s face and his words, which I gradually came to


    understand, would flood my mind. To find some peace, I would turn to drinking, which eventually became a birthday ritual. Since my birthday also marked his death anniversary, I did not feel like celebrating."


    "I see..." Calista pouted. "That''s not interesting!"


    "Huh?"


    "I thought it would be some interesting tale, but it wasn''t at all..." sheined, her lips pursing in a pout. It was impossible to express just how adorable she looked.


    In an instant, Kallum managed to free himself from his mild mncholy. As he looked at her, he found himself at a loss for what to do next.


    "Let me share something interesting with you!" With a sly grin, Calista continued, "Do you know where I got the bottle I use for storing wine?" Kallum yed along with her,ughing as he said, "I''m not sure. Tell me!"


    "Hmph!" Calista began to animatedly recount her adventure of how she had acquired the bottles, made the fruit wine, and cunningly managed to keep it a secret. She narrated the whole process, including the moment when she was sshed all over with juice while crushing the fruit, and the time she nearly got caught while burying the wine bottles. Her nimble wits and daring actions made her story an exciting roller coaster ride that was hard to keep up with. This made the girl, who in Kallum''s mind was forever shy, instantlye alive.

 Chapter 173 Stay Alive

    "In the second year, I managed to steal some malted barley! And by the third year, I had obtained wheat malt!" As she spoke, her expression suddenly fell into destion. "By the fourth year, I didn''t have to hide anymore because my grandparents had both passed away..." In an instant, Kaiser felt a tug at his heart, wishing nothing more than to hold her close andfort her.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Yelena was never kind to me. Whenever I felt heartbroken, I would retreat here, alone. The serenity of the mountain, oddly enough, made me feel safer than the grandeur of the mansion. Whenever fear crept in, I foundfort in the thought that, even if there were ghosts, my grandparents would surely protect me!" she said.


    Kallum tightened his grip on her hand. "It doesn''t matter if that isn''t the case. I''ll protect you in the future!"


    Calista showed no reaction, yet she rallied her spirits and began to dig out the wine bottles one by one.


    Kallum had also lent a hand. In an instant, his tailor-made clothes and trousers were smeared with mud, making them look like two children who had been ying in the mud.


    Calista counted again meticulously and suddenly said in a dreamlike tone. "Do you think Lummy would be happy if he knew how much effort I''ve put into this?"


    Kallum was startled, finally realizing what he had overlooked. In the past, Calista would call me Lummy, or like Mirabelle, she would call me Kal. However, from that day on, she only addressed me by my name, devoid of any hint of intimacy. It was as if we were strangers or even enemies...


    As he grappled with difort, hearing Calista ask him in such a manner brought about a sense of happiness. His emotions were a tangled web of contradiction andplexity, yet joy managed to rise above the rest.


    "He would definitely be thrilled! H-He would surely grow fonder of you. He would be so happy!"


    Hearing Kallum''s assurance, Calista started to dig into the earth again happily. She seemed to take great pleasure in hiding away her treasures, much like a small animal.


    She pulled out a carefully wrapped wooden box. Had Quincy been there, she would have certainly been livid, for within this boxy the treasure she held dear in her heart.


    Calista opened the box, revealing a collection of exquisite antique boxes. Everything inside these boxes had been handed down from Calista''s grandmother, all of them precious items. However, these were not the focus of her attention. Calista directly pulled out a dark green box. Upon opening it, there was a thumb ring inside. The difference was that while the Fairchild family''s thumb ring was emerald green, the one in her hands was made of red emerald.


    She gently touched it twice and said, "My grandmother gave this to me when she was alive. She said that since the Fairchild family has given us a valuable token, our family should also return a token. Even though we are not as wealthy as others, we can''t let people look down on us..."


    That was verbatim. It seemed as though Kallum could envision how Calista''s grandmother, who seemed to be quite the schr, would have voiced these words.


    Calista toyed with it, whispering, "But I knew Lummy wouldn''t ept it, so I hid it away and never brought it out. Do you think, one day, Lummy might ept my gift?"


    She began to feel anxious. Having


    faced rejection too many times, she had lost the courage to take risks. was like these wines that she prepared every year, but ever since her grandparents passed away, she never attempted to give them away again.


    Unable to resist any longer, Kallum finally embraced her. He sat on the ground, cradling Calista carefully in his arms as if he were protecting a rare and precious treasure. "You really loved him..." Kallum''s eyes, slightly reddened, were locked onto her. "Do you still love him now?"


    Calista looked at him curiously. "Why do you find it strange? How could I not love him?"


    "Well... If..." Taking a deep breath, Kallum enunciated, "If he were to have survived, would you still be willing to marry him?"


    Calistaughed. "That''s an interesting thing to say. I''ve always looked forward to marrying Lummy. How could I possibly be unwilling?"


    Kallum held her chin, drawing her somewhat scattered gaze back into focus. "Take a good look at who I am! W-Would you marry me? If I were still alive, that is!"


    Calista''srge, starry eyes focused


    on him for a while. At that moment, Kallum felt as if he were proposing His emotions were a whirlwind of nerves, joy, and fear, causing his heartbeat to fluctuate rapidly. His deep purple eyes were tightly fixed on, Calista''s face, his thin lips pressed together, anxiously awaiting her response.


    "Lummy?" Calista got a clear look at the person and joyously wrapped her arms around his neck. "I love you the most, Lummy! I want to marry you!"


    Kallum felt as if he were on the brink


    of taking flight. His breaths came in quick session, a sensation he had never experienced before. Never had he realized that simply being


    alive could bring such im being


    joy.


    I must stay alive! How could bear to die? No! I must record this moment to prevent Callie from denying it once she sobered up. I could also y it back to her when I propose in the future. I can''t let her


    wiggle out of it!


    Just as Kallum was looking for his phone, Calista had already taken the smallest bottle of wine into her arms, presenting it like a treasure.


    "Lummy, this is my birthday gift to you! You like drinking wine, don''t you? I''m pretty smart, so the wine I''ve made must be delicious! Shall we try it together?"


    Upon seeing her holding the surely spoiled bottle of wine again, Kallum swiftly snatched it away. Holding it high above his head, he coaxed her, "Be good, okay? This one''s mine. You can''t have it!"

 Chapter 174 Token Of Love

    Biting her lower lip, Calista looked at him with a hint of grievance. She slowly said, "Ever since I was a child, I''ve dreamed of the day you would taste the wine I''ve brewed. So, w-would you like to try it?" disappointed, wouldn''t she?


    Under the hopeful gaze of Calista, it was difficult for Kallum to say no to her. If he told her that the wine was definitely spoiled, perhaps it would mean her other wines were ruined as well. She put so much effort into this. If I were to tell her that, she would be greatly Whenever Kallum thought of her usual bright, starry eyes looking dim, he couldn''t bear it. So, he nodded slightly and said, "All right, I''ll drink! Y-You just watch me."


    After speaking, he broke the y seal, but there was no scent emanating from it, indicating it had truly gone bad.


    Calista said earnestly, "I used mulberries, as I couldn''t pick any other fruits. However, I''ve heard from others that mulberry wine is quite delightful. Would you like to try some?"


    If Calista had been lucid, she would have known that many of these wines were unfit for consumption. After all, her methods were far from professional. Especially with the first bottle, even a nine-year-old prodigy couldn''t achieve a perfect seal.


    Besides, if fruit wine were to spoil, it could produce numerous bacteria harmful to the human body. For Kallum, with his current physical condition, recklessly consuming such things was practically courting death.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    However, Kallum couldn''t bear to see her heartbroken.


    The sight of fingers, as white as porcin, clutching a y bottle smeared with dirt was already quite a contrast. Yet, Kallum dared to drink the unknown liquid inside. Truly, it was a disy of courage.


    He tilted his head back and took a sip, almost instinctively wanting to spit it out. But under the expectant gaze of Calista, he swallowed the strange, sour liquid bit by bit, feeling as if he had just consumed a dose of poison.


    "Is it delicious?" Calista asked cautiously. Her face flushed a deep red, and her eyes sparkled brightly.


    Kallum''s expression remained unchanged until, finally, he revealed a dazzling smile. "It''s really good! Better than any famous liquor I''ve ever had, both locally and internationally!"


    "Really?" Calista reached out to grab it. "Let me give it a try, then!"


    Kallum was taken aback, hastily raising his hand. "No! Since it''s meant for me, you can''t have any!"


    After that, fearing that Calista might actually drink it, he tilted his head back and finished off the entire bottle of spoiled wine.


    Luckily, after such a long period of evaporation, there wasn''t much left in the bottle of liquor. Otherwise, it could have been lethal.


    As Calista took the bottle to examine, Kallum managed to conceal a look of restraint. Even though the substance in the bottle made him feel like he was better off dead, having Calista in his arms made him feel a strange mix of pain and joy. "You''ve really finished it..." Calista turned the bottle around, tipped it a couple of times, and indeed found it empty. Only then did a look of regret appear on her face.


    Fearing that Calista might have some thoughts about the remaining wine, Kallum quickly changed the subject by saying, "That thumb ring?"


    "Oh... Thumb ring!" Calista joyfully lifted Kallum''s hand, slipping the ring onto his finger. "This is a token of love!"


    Kallum gazed at the red emerald thumb ring on his thumb, then at the emerald thumb ring on Calista''s hand. He thought they seemed to be a pair. It must be fate! We''re destined to be together!


    The more he thought about it, the sweeter it felt. Kallum held Calista in his arms, letting out a contented sigh of happiness. "Callie... I''ll definitely strive to survive!"


    Every time he thought of how deeply Calista used to love him, his will to live surged infinitely. Once he recovered, he would slowly win her over, reminding her of the emotions they once shared. Then, they could be together forever. Hence, he told himself he had to stay alive.


    "I also strive to live on..."


    Suddenly, Calista spoke, her head resting on his shoulder.


    Kallum instantly thought of Yelena and the others, his brow furrowing. "Who''s been giving you a hard time now?"


    Calista''s voice lowered. "In the end, those who wished for my demise will all meet a gruesome fate... That''s because I''ve returned."


    "Hmm?" Kallum didn''t quite catch that. As he looked down, he noticed that Calista had already closed her eyes. Her brows were furrowed as if she was recalling something unpleasant. This left Kallum confused. Didn''t our conversation go well just moments ago? Kallum chuckled and sighed, readying himself to lift Calista in his arms. However, no sooner had he taken a few steps than he began to suffer from stomach pain.


    Ever since he contracted K Virus, he


    had grown ustomed to the daily pain. However, this bout of


    abdominal pain was extraordinary feeling as if he''d been stabbed, his flesh and blood churning. He gritted his teeth, taking a moment t@catch his breath. Carefully, he sat down, cradling Calista in his arms before he managed to call Ryder.


    Upon learning that Kallum was not at Havenrock Vi but had gone elsewhere, the Fairchild family mobilized over a hundred people. When they arrived, they carried out disinfection and cleared the area. Although Kallum''s saliva and sweat were not really contagious, they took precautions to ensure nothing was overlooked. Even though K Virus had very low activity outside the human body, they could not afford to take any chances.


    When Kallum was getting into the car, he suddenly held Ryder and ordered, "Take everything from the cave back with us!"


    "Understood!" Upon seeing the state of Kallum, Ryder realized that the matter at hand had to be of great importance, as it was still upying Kallum''s thoughts.


    After getting in the car, Shaun was ready to conduct an examination. However, Kallum waved his hand dismissively, his face pale as he said, "I must have eaten something I shouldn''t have."


    Shaun was momentarily speechless. Mr. Kallum, why did you eat something you knew you shouldn''t eat? Were you trying to kill yourself?


    Once the group returned to Fairchild


    Manor, Kallum was already


    drenched in sweat from the pain. The injection he received in the


    did nothing to alleviate his difort. He endured the


    ca


    excruciating torment of what felt like his insides twisting, yet he didn''t utter a singleint throughout the ordeal.

 Chapter 175 A Divergence

    Calista was oblivious to everything. After being held and cleaned up by someone, he was ced onto a plush, soft bed.


    By the time she woke up, Kallum had already had his stomach pumped, looking extremely pale. Seeing this, Calista immediately furrowed her brows.


    "What happened?" Calista tried to recall, but she couldn''t remember anything. Could it have been the alcohol?


    Seeing that she seemed to have forgotten, Kallum felt a twinge of regret. However, he still said, "It appears I can''t drink alcohol now. It makes me feel ufortable."


    Calista was skeptical. She helped Kallum onto the bed, then turned to Quintus and the others nearby. "Is it really just because of the alcohol?"


    Quintus wouldn''t dare to tell the truth. Under Calista''s piercing gaze, he dryly said, "It''s due to the alcohol. After Mr. Kallum fell ill, his body became somewhat peculiar. Old Mr. Yancey just mentioned that Mr. Kallum is not allowed to drink alcohol in the future." Only then did Calista believe, regretting that she hadn''t stopped him.


    She then asked someone to keep an eye on Kallum while she went off to the researchb. Calista felt it was necessary to discuss the issue with others. A person who could hold their liquor bing allergic to alcohol due to K Virus?


    At Fairchild Manor''s annex, beneath the two-story building, a secret researchb had been established. Over the past year, Calista''s intellectual prowess had won over the respect and admiration of the older experts. Hence, they were rather cordial toward her.


    "Is Mr. Kallum all right now?" Bowen Haught asked as he approached. Approaching his sixties, he was the oldest and most experienced among them, excluding Shaun. His demeanor was quite amiable.


    Calista gave a nod. "Old Mr. Yancey and the others handled it. I had a bit of a drink earlier and took a nap."


    Seemingly embarrassed about the mishap caused by drinking, Calista didn''t borate further. They discussed why Kallum suddenly developed an alcohol allergy, and then the conversation shifted toward the progress of conquering the virus.


    Aside from Calista, the sole female expert remarked, "Ms. Stafford, our research direction has been correct. Over the past year, we have made some progress using your blood. However, we seem to have reached a bottleneck now. Without a live test subject, our future research will be very challenging."


    Calista was well aware of this issue. However, bringing an infected person back to the country was no easy task. It had taken a great deal of effort to get Kallum back home safely. Even if they did manage to bring someone back, Calista didn''t have the ability to prolong another person''s life. Doing so would severely harm her own health, making it not worth the effort.


    "Regarding this issue, here''s what I think..." Pointing to a spot on the world map on the wall, Calista said slowly, "Currently, the majority of K Virus patients are concentrated in the countries in the equatorial regions. Bringing them back involves a great deal of risk. Therefore, believe we should go there


    ourselves. After all, once infected, one''s lifespan bes extremely limited. To meet our research needs, we require arge number of patients, so we have no choice but


    to go to this ce, Corleon."


    "No way! I''m not going!"


    Suddenly, a voice of opposition arose. It belonged to the youngest amongst the group of experts, a man in his early thirties named Wayne Leedon. He was typically a man of few words, and that was the first time he had ever shown such fervor.


    Calista stared at him, saying in a nonchnt tone, "Calm down. Since you''re working for the Fairchild family, they''ll ensure your safety. Those ces aren''t war zones. We''re going there as a special support medical team, and we''ll have the local government''s support and protection."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Wayne''s face darkened. "Why would you go to such a dangerous ce? You''re well aware that K Virus doesn''t just transmit through fluids. It could potentially spread through the respiratory system in an area crowded with infected individuals! We don''t know enough about it yet. Are we supposed to just recklessly march toward our death?"


    Calista slightly raised an eyebrow. "I


    can assure you with certainty that


    ´¨


    the possibility of K Virus being transmitted through the respiratory tract is extremely slim. Not only can the inhibitor we''ve recently developed extend their lives by two months, but it can alsopletely eliminate this possibility. Besides, we have protective clothing. With a bit of caution, the scenario you''re suggesting simply can''t ur!"


    A sudden look of fear crossed Wayne''s face when he saw her resolute attitude. "So, you''re really going? Fine, you can go! I''m staying right here!" Gradually, Calista''s expression turned frosty. "Only Professor Haught and Old Mr. Yancey are allowed to stay," she said. She didn''t trust anyone else.


    Sweeping her gaze over the crowd,


    Ret


    each with their own unique expression, Calista slightly raised her voice to add, "Don''t forget that you''ve signed the liability waiver forms! The Fairchild family paid a hefty sum for your services, not so you could hide behind the lines! Just imagine, if we seed, your worth would increase a hundredfold! You''d be basking in glory! The Fairchild family will also do everything in their power to ensure your safety. Even on the off chance something happens, your family will be taken


    care of for life. What exactly are you afraid of?"


    Upon hearing that Bowen could stay, Wayne was immediately upset. His thin face was taut, his eyes full of resentment. "Why can he stay and I can''t? We all signed the agreement toe here! Aren''t you being too biased? We could also conquer the virus while being within the country. It''s just a matter of time!"


    Several people gave approving looks. Despite the slow progress at the moment, they were confident that in a few years, or perhaps a decade or so, they would certainly ovee it. Why should we take any risks?


    "Well, we''re running out of time," Calista said calmly. "You may have already guessed that I used a unique method to prolong Kallum''s life. However, even with his robust physique, he won''t withstand the daily torment of K Virus, and I can''t let him die."

 Chapter 176 Try Too Hard

    The room fell into silence. Due to Kallum''s unique physical condition and status, he couldn''t be used as a human test subject. However, the fact that he had survived this long was already a miracle, a result of their collective efforts.


    Their enemy was too formidable. Deep down, theycked the belief that they could conquer K Virus before it ravaged Kallum''s body. They simply couldn''t understand Calista.


    Upon noticing the absence of the Fairchild family members and Shaun, Wayne suddenly said, "What for, Ms. Stafford? You really don''t have to try so hard."


    Calista squinted slightly, casting a subtly intriguing gaze at him.


    "Sh*t!" Wayne muttered under his breath. He always felt Calista''s stare was chilling.


    Wayne then licked his lips and said in a lowered voice, "Now, you''re already considered half a daughter to the Fairchild family. Mr. and Mrs. Fairchild are so fond of you. If something were to happen to Kallum, you would stand to gain the most. Why are you trying so hard?" This statement was nothing short of heart-wrenching.


    Suddenly, Calista took a step forward, grabbing him by the cor of his shirt. "What are you trying to say?"


    Her tone was menacing, and her gaze even more oppressive. It left those around her wanting to intervene, yet too afraid to do so.


    While clutching his cor, Wayne retorted angrily, "Did I say something wrong? Our current research progress has already increased our value a hundredfold! Why should we risk everything for a dying man? Ms. Stafford, you may have a spirit of sacrifice, but I don''t!" Calista really wanted to punch him, but she held back. She gave him a deep look before shifting her gaze to the others.


    "Do you share the same thoughts?" she asked.


    The remaining eight people all disyedplex expressions. Seeing their silence, Wayne scoffed and said, "Ms. Stafford, you''re a good girl. I heard that you were quite fond of Mr. Kallum in the past, but he didn''t reciprocate your feelings. You couldn''t be his fianc¨¦e, so you became his sister instead. I understand why you want to save him, but we''re dealing with K Virus! For centuries, mankind has been helpless against it. What makes you think that we, just a handful of us, could conquer the virus before it destroys Mr. Kallum''s body? I admit that your blood carries some antibodies, but will that really help? Unless you can find a unique patient who''s infected with K Virus but doesn''t die! Someone like Mr. Kallum, whose life you''re barely keeping afloat, can''t even withstand a simple drug trial!"


    Calista clenched her fists. She was the one who was infected but wouldn''t die. Although her blood had some resistance, if she truly contracted the disease, it would still break out, just like any ordinary person. That was why these people never suspected her.


    The only thing that set her apart was her constitution. Due to her practicing martial arts and medicinal baths from a young age, she was quite different from ordinary people.


    However, she couldn''t possibly voice it out, let alone sacrifice herself to be Kallum''s test subject for his medicines.


    "If you believe yourselves to be


    incapable, then you''re destined to


    never conquer the virus." Calista added solemnly, "To put it bluntly, was the one who outlined the research direction, provided the blood samples, and gave you lots of crucial information. More than half of your progress is due to my contributions!"


    Though what she said was indeed the truth, it inevitably made the others present wear ufortable expressions.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Crossing her arms, Calista continued in her icy demeanor, "Getting a bit of sess and you''re already seeking fame, encountering a bit of danger and you''re all hesitation and excuses. I ask you, do you even remember why you came here? You''re not here for fame. You''re here to save lives!"


    Several people turned pale under Calista''s intimidation.


    Recently, they had made some


    progress, which had left them feeling somewhat ted. The mere thought of having made a


    breakthrough with a problem that et


    had puzzled the world for centuries was enough to keep them up at night in excitement. As for Kallum,


    they all held the belief thallum,


    all he


    needed to do was to keep trying. They were convinced he wouldn''t be able to hold on until the day they conquered the virus.


    Right then, Bowen let out a sigh. "Ms. Stafford, please don''t be upset. I''ll talk to them. We certainly remember why we came here. When the timees, I''ll apany you to Corleon, and we can just leave Old Mr. Yancey behind." "No. He can''t manage it all by himself." Calista immediately dismissed the idea.


    "Well, I''m not going either! I''d rather give up the benefits offered by the Fairchild family than go to that ce and risk my life!" Wayne seized the opportunity to voice his opinion. He didn''t believe that Calista would dare to do anything to him. Calista gave a coldugh. "You''re free to leave, but only after signing a confidentiality agreement. If you think you can quit and then beat us to the punch by announcing our achievements, I''m afraid I''ll have to disappoint you." "You!" Wayne''s eyes widened. "My contributions are also part of this research. Why can''t it be published?"


    Calista''s demeanor suddenly shifted, her gaze bing unexpectedly intimidating. "Simply because I''m the decision-maker here! Because my contributions are the greatest!"


    She then shed a smile toward Wayne and said, "Simply because I am Ms. Fairchild!"


    "Y-You''re using your authority to suppress me!" Wayne felt fear creeping in, but he still forced himself to remain calm.


    "You''re absolutely right!" Calista, with


    her arms crossed and leaning against the table, tilted her delicate chin up, looking down at the other person. This research is mine, and I


    have only one goal. The goal and


    keep Kallum alive! If he survives, I''ll naturally share the credit with you all. But if he dies, I''ll be very displeased, and you''ll be kicked out of the research."

 Chapter 177 Insatiable Greed

    Someone disyed an expression of discontent, seemingly dissatisfied with Calista''s domineering attitude.


    However, before they could speak, Calista sneered, "It seems you''re quite unsatisfied. When you arrived, you had already reaped all the benefits. Hence, you are essentially assistants hired by the Fairchild family for me. Helping me research K Virus is part of your job. Why should I share a slice of the pie with you? What if I want to keep everything for myself? You wouldn''t win even if you took me to court! While you think I''m using my authority to suppress you, I see nothing but insatiable greed in your eyes! If you refuse to obey, then get out! Those whoply will naturally receive the best rewards. I, as Ms. Fairchild, guarantee this much!"


    The crowd''s expressions grewplicated. It was only when Calista mentioned it that they remembered the contract they had initially signed. Their role there was indeed not a leading one. Even Bowen was not the leader. As assistants, they truly had no power to assert their rights forcefully. After all, their status was not as high as Calista''s, and the control was not in their hands.


    Calista had made it clear, though, that if they performed well, she would reward them generously. Regardless of their disobedience, she could take back her rewards at any time. However, those who obeyed would obviously receive more. After all, Calista was not a woman to break her word.


    Once the female researcher had weighed the pros and cons, she promptly made her stance clear by saying, "There''s no sess without risk. I''ll go with you!"


    Others also started to voice their opinions, and with that, Wayne found himself increasingly isted.


    "You all..." He gritted his teeth and red at those people.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    In truth, he was beginning to feel a twinge of regret, wishing he could follow but not daring to. He was the youngest virologist with a limitless future ahead. If he contracted K Virus, he didn''t believe Calista would have any way to prolong his life. If that life-prolonging method was wless, Calista wouldn''t be so desperate, taking risks to go to Corleon.


    Seeing that they had finally started to behave, Calista let out a huff, not continuing any further. However, Wayne was no longer of any use. In his current state, even if he had a change of heart and wanted to follow, Calista wouldn''t allow him to. "Remember this. I have only one demand, and that is for Kallum to stay alive! I also believe that we can conquer the virus before his demise. As long as he survives, whatever fame, wealth, or status you desire, I''ll grant it all to you," Calista said. When she spoke these words, her tone was incredibly serious, as if she were reciting some sort of vow.


    Her resolve was infectious, and it stirred a newfound energy within everyone present. Seeing their renewed enthusiasm, Calista felt a sense of relief. She nodded approvingly, tapping her fingers lightly on the table.


    "Consider the wealth and power of the Fairchild family. Don''t be too short-sighted. Being the savior of the Fairchild family''s heir is far more beneficial than doubling your current worth," Calista said.


    Calista executed the arts of offering constion after delivering a blow and painting a rosy picture with ease. When she was on guard against everyone, when she was ruthless toward everyone, her wisdom allowed her to stand on invincible ground.


    Her words ignited a spark of


    enthusiasm among these experts. Previously, they hadn''t considered the possibility that Kallum could endure until their sess. Naturally, they hadn''t thought of attributing the life-saving grace to themselves. But with this new perspective, they felt a surge of energy. If they could actually save Kallum, that would be a real win.


    Calista felt a sense of relief in her heart, and she started discussing pain-relieving medications with Bowen.


    Kallum waved his hand, choosing not to enter. Instead, he let Quintus push the wheelchair away.


    After he had his stomach pumped, he was feeling rather unwell. He didn''t want to be alone, so he decided to seek out Calista. However, he hadn''t expected to witness such a scene.


    Callie is far more formidable than I''ve ever imagined. Kallum was torn between feelings of relief and sadness. He yearned to be needed by her, not to be protected by her.


    He reyed her words over and over in his mind. She had said that all she wanted was for him to live, and she had a firm belief in his sess. When he thought about how others openly or secretly thought he would die, Calista''s persistence became particrly heartwarming. If before hewas reluctant to die, at that moment, he couldn''t afford to. No matter how painful, he had to endure and pull through. Otherwise, he wouldn''t be able to face her.


    My beloved Callie... Kallum couldn''t bear the thought of her risking her life in such a dangerous ce for his sake. The weight of her sacrifice was too much for him to endure. He couldn''t allow her to go. She was too precious and beautiful to be put in harm''s way.


    Kallum suddenly chuckled and said, "Lock Wayne up. My affairs must remain confidential. Since he doesn''t want to cooperate with me, I guess I''ll have to inconvenience him."


    Quintus nodded. "Yes, I''ll get right on it."


    Shaun stood hesitantly by Kallum''s side, suggesting, "Mr. Kallum, how about I go to Corleon so that Ms. Stafford can stay here?"


    Kallum rubbed his temples, feeling somewhat of a headache. "I wasn''t even aware when she started harboring such dangerous thoughts."


    Shaun responded, "I only found out today... Ms. Stafford truly treats you well... I think it''s rare to find a couple where one treats the other as she does."


    A faint smile couldn''t help but tug at the corners of Kallum''s lips when he heard that. Saying it''s rare is an understatement. After all, everyone flees when adversity strikes. Callie is different, though.


    Once again, Shaun let out a sigh. "Because of this, Ms. Stafford probably won''t change her mind. After all, this is the only way to make progress at the moment. Yet, she''s so young. It would be such a shame if anything were to go wrong. Should I go instead?" Kallum shook his head. "You''re too old, so you can''t go either. Let Gunner and Ryder take them there, with Professor Haught leading. As for Callie... How could she go to such a filthy ce?"

 Chapter 178 A New Era

    Shaun felt relieved when he saw that Kallum was determined to protect Calista and not sacrifice her for his own sake or put her at risk. If they could get past this hurdle, Mr. Kallum and Ms. Stafford would probably make a very happy couple, wouldn''t they? By the time Calista finally finished discussing with Bowen and the others, night had already fallen.


    After Wayne was called out, he never returned. Everyone knew what had happened but no one asked about his whereabouts. Since their arrival, they could onlymunicate with their families once a month under strict surveince. Even if Wayne was dismissed from the researchb, he couldn''t go home early.


    "I think I understand what you''re getting at." Bowen''s eyes sparkled with intelligence. "It''smon knowledge that most painkillers have a strong potential for dependency, even addiction. But if your idea works, we might just be on the brink of a new era!"


    Calista nodded in agreement. She had no aspirations for fame, and her only focus was on solving problems. With medical knowledge spanning over a decade in her mind, coupled with more than a year of intensive learning, she had be one of the most formidable medical research experts of her time. However, she was not yet aware of her own prowess.


    "Our workload is going to increase from here on out. We''ll have a tough time ahead!" she said.


    Bowen shook his head. "I''m not the one who''s had it tough. It''s really you. I''m just reaping the benefits of your efforts."


    He shared a few pleasantries with a smile and sent Calista off to rest. Although he had much more to say, he dared not. Everyone in Fairchild Manor knew that if he dared to keep Calista after dark, he would have to face Kallum''s wrath.


    After having a little to eat, Calista was already quite exhausted. It was clear that she wasn''t one for indulgence. Her days were filled with either studying or conducting research, yet she found joy in this. Her mood was significantly better than when she was idle. Perhaps not being pursued and not having to flee for her life was enough to satisfy her.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    After she finished her bath, it was nearly bedtime. She climbed into bed with practiced ease, only to find Kaiser was not focusing on his work. Instead, he was watching her intently.


    "What''s wrong?" Calista asked, noticing his continued pallor. She furrowed her brows and said, "You''ve been pushing yourself so hard today. You must be feeling awful. Why don''t you rest? You can always work tomorrow."


    Kallum''s gaze lingered on her for a moment before he shook his head. "I should finish reviewing these two documents today, but you can go to sleep first."


    As he spoke, he seemed to want to push his wheelchair a bit further away, so as not to disturb her. But after the stomach pumping, his body was incredibly weak. Coupled with his existing illness, every movement was as painful as a knife to the flesh. Yet, he disliked being bothered by others and had sent away everyone who tried to take care of him.


    Seeing the sudden change in Kallum''splexion, Calista had a hunch about what was going on. She climbed out of bed and walked over to him, sizing him up from head to toe. "Are you really okay?"


    Usually, he would be resting after receiving his injection, but he insisted on showing off his strength. No one dared to defy him.


    "I''m fine."


    With that, he held his breath unsteadily. A thin sheen of sweat emerged on his forehead.


    Every night, his body was wracked with pain that seemed to double, and that day''s ordeal had only worsened it. This was undeniably the happiest yet most agonizing birthday he had ever experienced.


    The joy was when Calista said she would marry him. The agony, however, was that she woke up and couldn''t remember a thing. Right then, he regretted not recoding the response she gave when they were in the cave.


    "You don''t look like you''re okay," Calista said. Her brows furrowed as she noticed his difort.


    Kallum shook his head. He


    desperately wanted to ask her if she truly didn''t remember, but as soon as he opened his mouth, he drew in a sharp breath. D*mn it! With this level of pain, sleep is off the table for me tonight!


    Calista pursed her lips and bent down slightly Then, in the next moment, Kallum was lifted off the ground. He was stunned. How is it possible for Calista to lift me? Why would she want to lift me? No! That''s the main point! The main point is that I, a grown man, am being carried by a petite fady! Am I really that light now?


    "You! What are you doing?" Kallum''s expression was one of sheer terror. He was so shocked that he couldn''t even feel the pain, his face a kaleidoscope of emotions. "D*mn it! Put me down now!" he eximed.


    Calista found him annoying, so she said with a cold expression, "If you don''t quiet down, I''ll carry you downstairs and take ap. Given your current state, you probably can''t beat me, anyway."


    I''d rather be dead than deal with this!


    Kallum''s body stiffened, immobile. He was genuinely terrified that Calista might carry him downstairs. She was known for being a woman of her word, and if anyone saw him like that, he might as well be dead. He had never been so embarrassed in his entire life.


    In reality, Calista simply couldn''t bear to see Kallum treating himself so poorly.


    She had gone through the pain that Kallum was experiencing at that moment. Hence, seeing Kallum in distress, she could deeply empathize with him.


    Sheid him on the bed, and immediately, Kallum distanced himself from her. He gritted his teeth in frustration, but in the end, he didn''t utter a word.


    If anyone else were to do that to him, he would have lost his temper long ago. However, it was Calista, so he held back. Once I recover, I''ll carry her around the city for a week until she begs for mercy!


    "I still have documents to review!" he voiced out, clearly displeased.


    Calista walked over to retrieve the documents. "Shall I read it out for you?"


    Kallum cast a skeptical nce at her. When has Callie be so considerate? I like it, but something feels oddly off.

 Chapter 179 Not Because Of You

    At that time, Kallum was still upset. What happened earlier was truly a blow to his pride. How am I supposed to wear the pants in the family in the future?


    It seemed as though she could sense what he was thinking. Calista raised her eyebrows slightly. "What''s the matter? Are you displeased because I carried you?"


    Kallum turned his head to the side, holding back the pain as he muttered, "No."


    Seeing him throw a tantrum, Calista found it quite amusing. A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips as she climbed onto the bed and lowered her voice to say, "Should I let you carry me back?"


    Kallum looked at her, surprised. However, he wasn''t one to turn down a good thing when it was offered. Most importantly, when he was feeling down, holding her seemed to make everything much better. Yet, Calista refused to let him hold her. Chuckling slightly, she asked, "What''s the matter? Aren''t you going through the documents anymore?"


    Upon seeing her disobedience, Kallum decided to remind her, "Today is my birthday!"


    "So what?" Calista tilted her head.


    Kallum disyed aplex expression. Am I not entitled to some perks? We were clearly close during the day. Indeed, a drunk Callie is more endearing.


    Right then, she saw him frown and thought he was in pain again. Without thinking, she pressed her hand against his stomach and asked, "Does it hurt a lot?"


    Most of the time, Kallum wouldn''t show any signs of pain. Hence, if something made him furrow his brow, it had to truly hurt.


    All was well until Calista touched it. The pain that Kallum had been enduring suddenly heightened upon contact.


    He didn''t want to worry Calista and was ready to assure her he was fine. However, a sudden surge of pain hit him, as if it was drilling into his bones, causing his body to shudder slightly.


    The stomach pumping he had undergone during the day had intensified the viral outbreak by night. His fists gradually tightened, and he experienced an rming sensation of breathlessness. "Lie down!"


    Seeing him looking as if he was having an outbreak, Calista quickly set the documents aside. She then took out the silver needles to administer acupuncture, a treatment that was originally scheduled for the third day. But under the circumstances, she couldn''t afford to wait any longer.


    When Calista turned Kallum over, he curled up slightly. He didn''t utter a sound, but his body was trembling.


    It was his ownpetitive nature to me. Even after going through stomach pumping, he didn''t take the proper rest and continued to roam around.


    Calista knew that this was not the time to argue with him. She closed her eyes, took a moment topose herself, and, with a calm and focused mind, began to administer the acupuncture.


    Thanks to the silver needles, some color gradually returned to Kallum''s face. He soon realized that it wasn''t the third day yet. She had to perform acupuncture in advance because of what he ingested during the day. Needless to say, he was frustrated.


    After the acupuncture, Kallum''splexion had returned to normal. However, Calista''s lips turned pale. She gritted her teeth and collected all the needles, but she no longer had the energy to sterilize them.


    Kallum sat up. Seeing her difort, he quickly held her in his arms. "Are you all right?"


    Calista closed her eyes, momentarilycking the strength to push him away.


    "I''m sorry." Kallum held her close, his heart aching. Every time it came to this, he despised himself. I''m the cause of Callie''s distress!


    After a long while, Calista finally said, "I don''t me you. If I hadn''t stopped you from taking the painkillers, you wouldn''t be in such distress."


    She took a deep breath, realizing


    that she simply couldn''t pull herself away from Kallum''s embrace. So, she decided not to get up at all. Over the past year, they had shared a bed every night. Although we''ve never been intimate with each other, he has seen it all. There''s no point in being pretentious now.


    Kallum shook his head. "I know you mean well for me."


    Calista hummed in agreement. "Those pills have strong side effects. At first, taking one a day could relieve your pain, but eventually, you would need more and more. In the end, you could consume a whole bottle in a day, yet still not find relief from the pain. If that were to happen, your body would be in a


    terrible state. I don''t want that for


    you."


    A flicker of doubt shed through Kallum''s purple eyes when he heard those words. He wondered why Callie spoke with such certainty as if she had seen it with her own eyes or experienced it firsthand. Obviously, it was actually her personal experience. As Calista closed her eyes, the chill enveloping her body seemed to bring past memories into sharp focus.


    Back then, she was afraid of pain. At


    first, she could bear it, but


    eventually, she started taking painkillers. She began with one or two pills but it escted to entire bottles. Gradually, she couldn''t


    afford those expensive


    anymore, so she resorted to cheaper alternatives, which were utterly ineffective. The long-term


    consumption of painkillers could


    cause irreversible damage to the


    body, a cruel reality she hade toText ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    understand all too well.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll soon be able to create a more effective painkiller with fewer side effects," she assured. It seemed as though she was afraid that Kaiser might overthink, so she quickly added, "That''s just my new research project. I''m not doing that because of you." Hearing that, Kallum couldn''t help butugh. With his arms wrapped around Calista''s waist, he found her awkwardness absolutely endearing.


    "Not because of me? Really?" Kallum deliberately provoked her.


    "You''re just an afterthought." Even though Calista was out of breath, her tone remained cold and resolute. It seemed as if whatever she was about to do had absolutely nothing to do with Kallum.


    Had he not overheard her conversation in the researchb, perhaps Kallum would have believed her. Holding her tightly in his arms and inhaling the faint cold fragrance from her body, he suddenly felt a great sense of contentment.


    At that time, they shared the same bed, their intimacy rivaling that of a typical married couple. The only difference, it seemed, was his physical condition.


    "I will definitely get better." That was the first time Kallum made a promise in front of Calista.


    Somewhat taken aback, Calista looked up at him, catching sight only of his chin. "Why this sudden surge of confidence?"

 Chapter 180 Wrong Script

    "It''s because of you!"


    Kallum raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "Considering how cooperative I''ve been with the treatment, shouldn''t you reward me with a kiss?"


    Calista''s eyes darted around before she lowered her head. She muttered, "You''re crazy."


    "Yes, I am." Kallum pinched her chin, not letting her sleep. "Today is my birthday. If you haven''t prepared a gift, it''s fine. I''ll let you off if you kiss me!"


    Calista rolled her eyes at him. As she wriggled free from his grip, she murmured, "Stop it. I''m tired."


    "It''s the same if I kiss you. Don''t worry, I promise I''ll only give you a light peck!"


    Calista thought about how Kallum had already seen her entire body, and they had done everything that should and should not be done. Coupled with acupuncture, she was extremely tired, which made her a bit irritable. "Suit yourself, but don''t you dare disturb my sleep! Otherwise, I won''t make you any painkillers..."


    Kallum seized on her slip-up and chuckled. "Didn''t you say it wasn''t for me?" he asked.


    Calista found him bothersome. She moved away from him and gradually slipped under the nket, determined to block him out of sight and mind.


    Two hours after the acupuncture, Kallum was in high spirits. Besides, spending his birthday with the person he liked made him even more unwilling to leave her alone.


    "Come on, admit it! Admit that you did it for me, and I''ll let you off!" Kallum teased her mischievously as he tickled her.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Calista''s body tensed for a moment, but then she remained unresponsive no matter how much he tickled her. It seemed like she had be immune to it.


    Kallum raised an eyebrow, puzzled. He clearly remembered that Calista used to be ticklish!


    Underneath the covers, Calista couldn''t sleep peacefully because Kallum wouldn''t stop bothering her. Finally, when she could no longer tolerate it, she suddenly grabbed his hand and pinned him down on the bed! "You can''t sleep, can you?"


    Her eyes were slightly red, her tone harsh and somewhat threatening. Kallum''s heart skipped a beat when her long hair fell onto his chest.


    By the time he realized their position was inappropriate, Calista had already pinned him down.


    "Since we can''t sleep, let''s do something meaningful!"


    Darling, are you sure you''re not reading from the wrong script?


    In the moment of Kallum''s surprise, Calista kissed him. The next second, she deepened the kiss aggressively. As their lips and teeth intertwined, Kallum became inevitably entranced. However, his illness was contagious! He snapped back to reality and quickly pushed her away in a gentle way.


    "What are you doing?"


    A trace of panic flickered in his violet eyes, prompting Calista tough. "What''s the matter? You don''t want to be intimate with me anymore?"


    Kallum red at her. Despite his longing to be more intimate with her, and despite taking daily inhibitors that ensure his saliva and sweat posed almost no danger, he couldn''t eliminate the risk entirely. How could she tempt him like this? Seeing that he didn''t respond, Calista knelt on top of him and asked mischievously, "Why are you rejecting me again? You watch me every day and insist on holding me while you sleep. Isn''t it because you desire a woman?"


    Kallum ran his fingers through his disheveled hair. The temptation before him was almost enough to drive him mad. What on earth was happening?


    "Or is it that you want a woman, but just not me?" she taunted.


    It''s absolutely not like that!


    Kallum abruptly looked up. He had to make it clear! However, before he could speak, Calista suddenlyughed and pinned him down again. As her cool fragrance enveloped him, Kallum''s handsome face tensed up, the struggle in his eyes reaching its peak.


    "Don''te any closer to me," Kallum said, enunciating each word carefully. He was afraid he wouldn''t be able to control himself around her because he had absolutely no resistance against her!


    "Why not? I used to love how you despised me yet couldn''t push me away in the past. If you continue to loathe me, I might probably be even happier. Yelena was right when she said that I can be a bit abnormal at times. And when I''m not normal, you''re not allowed to resist!"


    As she spoke, she leaned in to kiss Kallum''s lips. It was a bold move that carried an eerie pleasure.


    If she were the one infected with K Virus, wouldn''t she also crave someone else''s warmth? The heating from a human body... It felt like a form of salvation.


    And wasn''t this the birthday gift he wanted?


    The softness of her lips sent a jolt through Kallum. Tall and long-limbed as he was, he had long since surrendered to her rather than being restrained.


    Under the same nket, a man and a woman would engage in certain intimate activities. Wasn''t that to be expected?


    Before his desirespletely overwhelmed him, Kallum finally wrapped his arms around her waist. In a hoarse whisper, he asked, "Do you have any regrets?"


    Being intimate with him, even if it was just a kiss, carried the risk of death. Wasn''t she afraid of the consequences just to fulfil his wish?


    "We''ve been entangled with each other for so long already."


    Calista spoke with a smile, her eyes twinkling with a hint of amusement. Her breath mingled with his in an ambiguous dance, like an enticing angel leading him into temptation. Kallum could no longer restrain himself. He swiftly flipped over, pinning Calista beneath him.


    For over a year, he had longed for a genuine kiss from her. Today, his wish was finally granted. It was his lucky day indeed!


    On the messy bed, even if they were


    just kissing, the scene would make anyone blush. Unfortunately, for someone who had been repressing his desires for so long, a little indulgence only made it harder to bear, much like the effect of taking drugs.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 181 Drugged

    The next day, when Calista woke up, she touched her lips and shot a somewhat displeased re at Kallum. If it wasn''t for the fact that they couldn''t have sex, she reckoned Kallum would have devoured her already!


    Kallum was already awake when Calista sat up. He held her in his arms, his eyebrows arching as he smiled with satisfaction.


    "Darling, you were really wildst night."


    Ugh, can he not act like we have done everything?Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista pushed him away as she recalled the important matter she had intended to discuss the day before.


    "By the way, just letting you know, I have to make a trip to Corleon."


    The smile on Kallum''s face froze. Then, he raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "You can''t leave, remember? Did you forget you have to give me an acupuncture treatment every three days?"


    Calista nced at him, replying, "I haven''t forgotten. I''m making this decision because I''ve figured out a way to extend your life. It''s just that you might suffer a bit more."


    Stunned, Kallum realized that Calista hade prepared.


    "So, you''ve nned this for a while?"


    His expression turned incredibly serious. He hadn''t expected Calista to have this idea for so long.


    Calista nodded.


    "Without test subjects, research can''t proceed. Your life was saved by me. No matter how strong your body is, it won''t withstand our drug trials. Thus, going to the virus hotspot was an idea I''ve had for a long time, and now it has be absolutely necessary," she said. "Since you said you''ve found a way to prolong my life, why are you in such a rush to take risks? I don''t mind if the research takes a bit longer back home, as long as you''re safe!" Kallum said.


    As he spoke, he remembered the words he heard yesterday. He added, "You don''t have to worry about whether I can make it to that day. As long as I have you, it doesn''t matter if it''s five years, ten years, or even twenty years. I won''t be taken down by K Virus! I will survive!


    Upon hearing these words, Calista was reminded of her own near-death experience... At that time, despite the researchers'' best efforts, they couldn''t halt the deterioration of her body. K Virus became increasingly horrifying in itster stages, and she could hardly imagine Kallum reduced to a bony state. It was a far cry from the image she held of him in her memory.


    "You don''t need to say anything more. I have already decided to leave for Corleon immediately. You are a patient, so please cooperate."


    How am I supposed to cooperate? Join her in taking risks?


    Kallum''s demeanor instantly became domineering. If it were anything else, he would unconditionally agree, but not this one. This was uneptable!


    "If you want me to trust you, then you should trust me too!" he said while gazing at her intensely, his tone firm and resounding.


    Calista didn''t want to confront him directly. Instead, she asked calmly, "Don''t you want to get better soon?"


    He wanted to, but certainly not under such circumstances.


    Suddenly, Calista reached out and ced her hand on his waist, closing the distance between them.


    When their eyes met, Kallum felt like a bomb with its fuse held tightly by someone else. His body was tense, yet he could never explode.


    With a smile, Calista whispered into his ear, "Don''t you want to get better soon, so we can be together?"


    "You!"


    Kallum was suddenly speechless, his chest rising and falling with emotion. He didn''t know what to feel or how to look at her. Calista said seriously, "If you want to, then heed my words. I promised to heal you, and I won''t go back on my word."


    ??? ???


    Most importantly, Calista knew very well that in her past life, Kallum had managed to pull through after receiving an antibody injection. Since he had fallen ill trying to save her, this time, she was determined to nurse him back to health.


    Regardless of any future deals or coborations, she simply didn''t want Kallum to end up like she did in her previous life. That would have been too unbearable, wouldn''t it? Kallum still refused, saying, "I will have Bowen lead the team. His qualifications are sufficient."


    Calista, however, didn''t want to continue discussing this topic.


    "Kallum."


    When he looked over, Calista


    suddenly stole a kiss andughed. "Actually, I remember what


    happened yesterday. After all, the red emerald thumb ring on your hand quite noticeable. I also


    I


    12.


    remember saying I wanted to marry you. They say a drunk mind speaks a sober heart. Do you think I''m


    willing to part from you?"


    Her words were filled with so much information that Kallum was stunned. The next moment, he felt a numb sensation at the back of his neck. A needle was inserted there, its tip still trembling slightly.


    A needle ced here could temporarily paralyze a person, even just a few seconds would suffice.


    Thest image Kallum saw was Calista smiling and saying four words.


    "Remember to miss me."


    Then, with deep reluctance, he sumbed to the darkness.


    Calista discarded the handkerchief she was holding. She had used a bit of sedative to knock out Kallum. Otherwise, it would be hard to get things done with him conscious.


    After sounding the rm, it didn''t take long before seven or eight people arrived. They were allpetent and efficient people.


    "What happened to Mr. Kallum?"


    Gunner was the first to notice that something was off. It seemed that Kallum wasn''t asleep, but rather, he had fallen unconscious.


    Looking worried, Calista said, "It


    seems that KVirus has mutated


    again. To tackle it as soon as possible''ll take a team to Corleon today, Ryder, can you get in touch with Corleon for us? We''re going to need the local government''s assistance."


    Although Ryder found it strange, he knew that Kallum had stated that Calista''s words were to be treated like his and not to be disobeyed. He immediately went to make the arrangements.


    "Did Mr. Kallum agree to this?" Quintus couldn''t help but ask. Given Kallum''s personality, there was no way he would have agreed to let Calista take such a risk.

 Chapter 182 The Life Extending Needle

    Calista looked exasperated. "He didn''t agree at first, but I spent the entire night persuading him."


    As she spoke, she hissed lightly, drawing attention to her swollen lips. The others exchanged knowing looks, suddenly understanding how Calista had managed to "persuade" Kallum. After all, what man could resist the requests of the woman he loved? However, Quintus remained skeptical. He couldn''t believe that Kallum would abandon his principles over a few kisses.


    Calista added, "However, he''s really worried about me. Quintus, can you find nine more Parker Guards to apany us? Otherwise, he definitely won''t be at ease."


    The task immediately disrupted Quintus'' train of thought. He instinctively acknowledged it and turned around to select capable people for the job.


    With everyone assigned with tasks, most of the people left. Only Shaun and Gunner were left.


    "Did you sedate Mr. Kallum?" Shaun stroked his small beard, having detected the scent of the sleeping drug.


    "As expected, I can''t keep it from you," Calista confessed openly. She turned to Gunner and asked, "Have you figured it out too?"


    Gunner scoffed. He was not as easily fooled as Quintus.


    Calista rubbed her temples and said, "I had no other choice. The longer we dy, the worse it is for us. Once I''ve made a decision, I have to see it through, even if he tries to stop me."


    "Even if you decide to leave, Mr. Kallum will surelye looking for you," Gunner pointed out coldly.


    Calista shed a malicious smile at Gunner. "That''s exactly why I''m leaving you behind. Find Ss, then spread some rumors at the customs. With Ss around and the country''s stringent measures against K Virus, Kallum won''t be able to leave the country!" Seeing that she had thought of everything, Shaun couldn''t help but ask, "What about Mr. Kallum''s health..."


    "I''ll leave that in your hands." Calista nodded at Shaun, then turned to Gunner. "Aren''t you leaving yet?"


    Gunner snorted and replied, "If it weren''t for the fact that you''re doing this for Mr. Kallum''s sake, I wouldn''t listen to you at all!"


    After he finished speaking, he hastily left, leaving only Shaun behind.


    "What should I do?" Shaun asked in a hushed tone.


    "It''s notplicated," Calista said as she rose to her feet andy Kallum t. "I''ll give you a prescription for a medicinal bath. It''s something I used when I was younger, though I''ve made some improvements to it. When I''m not here, you''ll need to monitor Kallum and ensure that he soaks in it for an hour each day. As for the other treatments, you''re already familiar with them, so I won''t go into detail. Can you do me a favor and keep watch at the door for now?" Shaun nodded, aware that Calista had her own secrets. "All right, be careful."Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    After saying that, he left.


    Calista swiftly unfolded the carefully wrapped acupuncture kit. Her expression wasplex at first but gradually became resolute. "Lucky you," she murmured.


    Then, she began the acupuncture. If anyone had been watching, they might have thought she was performing magic!


    The needles hovered an inch away from her fingers, yet they could still pierce into a person''s skin steadily It was much like the advertised energy technique. In fact, it could also be considered as a form of energy technique.


    However, this method of acupuncture, known as the Fortune Needle, was the pinnacle of skill. It was recorded in ancient texts, but those who could achieve it, other than her, had long passed away.


    Today, Calist? was going to


    administer the Life Extending Needle, which would significantly drain her vitality. Although she wasn''t going topletely transfer her life energy to Kallum, it was still a significant sacrifice to ensure he wouldn''t die within the month.


    Performing acupuncture once a month was the maximum she could do to save him while preserving her own life.


    "You ended up in this state because of me, so I''m saving you. I just hope you won''t make me regret today''s decision in the future," she muttered.


    After finishing the acupuncture, Calista could barely stand. She called Shaun in and exined the follow-up procedures.


    Seeing Calista''s pale expression, it was clear that she had sacrificed a lot. Touched, Shaun said, "Ms. Stafford, we''ve all noticed your dedication to Mr. Kallum. I believe if he recovers, he will surely not let you down!" Calista sat on the sofa. Smiling wryly, she replied, "It''s still too early to speak of love and romance when our lives are still uncertain."


    Shaun nodded, understanding this was an unspoken agreement between Kallum and Calista to not involve emotions until everything was settled.


    Everything was arranged meticulously. By the time Kallum woke up, Calista and her team were already on the ne.


    "She left?"


    Kallum remained veryposed, uttering only two words before falling silent.


    Over the years, everyone had seen Kallum lose his temper. Every time he got angry, it was like a volcanic eruption, scorching those around him. But this calmness was unprecedented.


    However, everyone began to tremble with fear. They feared the silence more than the rage. It seemed this time, they were doomed by the Calista''s actions.


    It was already evening. A light rain began to fall outside, bringing a chill wind in and causing the open window to rattle.


    Kallum suddenly burst intoughter. He nced outside before looking down at his hands and at the excessively pale skin on the back of them. His smile grew increasingly mocking. "Shaun, am I already a wreck now?"


    Taken aback, Shaun chose his


    words carefully and replied in a low


    voice, "Mr Kallum... You will get


    Love


    better. Moreover, you are the most outstanding person. Even while ill, you''ve managed the group meticulously. There is no better heir than you."

 Chapter 183 Lock Her Up

    Kallum snorted as he eyed them. "Since I wasn''t dismissed, why didn''t you listen to me?"


    Everyone was taken aback by his response. Then, they all knelt on one knee, not daring to utter another word.


    For the first time, Shaun could sense Kallum''s murderous intent.


    Though only twenty-four years old, Kallum had already disposed of numerous people. He was generally easygoing, but when his mood turned, a single nce from him was enough to send chills down one''s spine.


    He scanned them with his dark eyes. Then, speaking slowly and deliberately, he asked, "Why don''t you answer me? Why did you let my treasure go?"


    Gunner raised his head. "Mr. Kallum, I was the one who let Ms. Stafford go. The others knew nothing about it."


    "Mr. Kallum, if you must punish someone, let it be me! I had my suspicions, yet I still let her go," Quintus piped up guiltily.


    Kallum gave a grimugh that dripped with mockery. It was unclear whether he wasughing at them or himself.


    A sense of foreboding crept over Shaun. I''m certain we won''t be able to escape punishment today. What I''m more afraid of is that we''ll all be reced. After all, if there''s one thing the Fairchild family doesn''tck, it''s staff. Sure enough, Kallum sneered, "Since you disobeyed me, then-"


    However, a monotonous ringing suddenly pierced the air. Kallum''s phone was ringing.


    Whoever it was, that person was unlucky to have chosen to call at such a time.


    Kallum stared at his phone for a while, pressing his thin, pursed lips even tighter together. In the end, he still could not bring himself to reject the call. "Awake already?"


    He heard Calista''s detestable voice on the other end of the line. She sounded cheerful as though feeling very smug that she had fooled him and slipped away. That d*mned woman! She''s truly unbearable!


    His silence did not scare her. She said, "Don''t punish them. They were all deceived by me. Instead of punishing them, why not wait until I return to punish me?"


    "Do you think you can escape?" He could not stop himself from responding but felt a pang of regret immediately after that. Why on earth did I have to rise to this ruthless woman''s bait?


    She chuckled. "Let''s get straight to the point, then. I called to exin why I left so suddenly. To be honest, even though I had considered it before yesterday, I hadn''t nned on acting so quickly. I''ve started a new subject at university, so do you know how much it cost me to leave so abruptly?"


    "And yet you just up and left!" he


    eximed, finally losing hisposure. His eyes swept the room in anger, prompting everyone to swiftly step outside. A reprisal for a wrong should be directed at the perpetrator, so they felt it was only fitting that Calista bore the brunt of his fury.


    Once everyone had left, Kallum could no longer contain his anger and cursed bitterly, "You d*mn woman! Don''t even think of fooling me. Do you think a simple phone call will ear my forgiveness? Let me mak


    things clear. I won''t let you off the hook! If you know what''s good for you, you''lle back right this


    instant!"


    She held the phone far away from her and only ced it back to her ear when he was done shouting. "I called you out of goodwill to exin things. Aren''t you going to hear what I have to say?"


    "Not a chance!" he retorted. Does she think she can escape punishment with just a simple exnation? Impossible! This time, I''m determined to teach her a lesson! I''ll make her understand that I have the final say! Let''s see if she dares to leave me again. She sure has some guts!Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    "If you don''t, you''ll regret it. Are you sure you won''t listen?"


    He snorted. "Unless youe back immediately, I don''t want to hear a single word!"


    "But the ce I''m heading to has no signal towers, and I left in such a hurry that I didn''t bring a satellite phone. If you don''t hear me out now, you might never get to do so."


    Frustration surged through Kallum, but he managed to snap, "Levi went with you. There''s no way he didn''t bring a satellite phone."


    Calista sighed. "It seems you''ve no intention of listening to what I have to say. So be it, then. Goodbye."


    "Wait!" His blood was boiling. This infuriating woman! It''s bad enough that she ran away, but to think she actually wants to hang up without uttering a single word of apology Does she think I''ve no way of getting to Corleon? If that''s the case, she''s seriously underestimating me! Just wait! Once I get my hands on her, I''ll... Although I haven''t quite figured out what I''ll do, I won''t let her off lightly, that''s for sure!


    Chuckling softly, she asked, "What''s this? Do you want to listen now?"


    He merely grunted in response and did not say anything.


    "If you''re not going to talk, I''ll hang up-"


    "Calista Stafford!" he hissed through clenched teeth. He could not help thinking how she was the bane of his existence. She was a woman he loved deeply yet despised with the same intensity!


    Seeing that he was on the verge of losing his temper, she finally suppressed herughter and spoke in a serious tone. "I have an idea. Send me a selfie. If I find your expression interesting enough, I''ll go back immediately-"


    Before she could finish her sentence, she heard a sudden thud followed by silence on the other end.


    Did he smash his phone? Laughing, she remarked, "You''re quite spirited. It seems that sticking it out for a month won''t be an issue."


    "Calista! You''re such a jerk!" Kallum paced back and forth in the room. His phoney shattered on the floor, making for a pitiful sight. He almost stepped on it several times, and each time he did, he would kick it away in frustration. He was nothing short of livid! "D*mn it! D*mn it! That insufferable woman! I''m going to tie you up! That''s right. And lock you up!" The thought of seizing her and confining her to his room, forbidding her to go anywhere, strangely filled Kallum with a twisted sense of anticipation.

 Chapter 184 I Cannot Win With You

    "It was you who forced me... You despicable person!" Kallum began searching for his phone. We haven''t finished our conversation. I want to see what excuses she''s going to make.


    At that moment, there was a knock on the door. He swung the door open with a terrifying expression on his face, and the person outside immediately straightened his back while holding a phone in his hands. "Mr... M-Mr. Kallum, Ms. Stafford is on the line..."


    Kallum grabbed the phone, fixing Julian with an icy stare. "How does she have your number?"


    Julian was on the verge of tears. This isn''t my phone! And even if it was, I wouldn''t dare to have any contact with her privately!


    The same thought crossed Kallum''s mind. He snorted coldly and mmed the door shut, almost hitting Julian''s nose.


    Feeling distressed, Julian could not help thinking that was no wonder Ryder refused toe and shoved him into the line of fire instead. They''re too cruel!


    Meanwhile, Kallum drew a deep breath before saying into the phone irritably, "What else do you want to say?"


    A soft, rustling sound came from the other end of the line. It seemed that Calista had just turned over.


    "I wanted to see if you''ve calmed down. I''m actually still quite afraid of you getting angry," came her reply.


    He sneered. "You say you''re afraid of me getting angry? If you did, you wouldn''t dare to act like this!" Her lips curved into a smile. Then, she quickly changed the subject. "Are you threatening me?"


    There was a moment''s silence as he tightened his grip on the phone. "I''m not."Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    "You are. Just a moment ago, you didn''t even want to hear my voice and smashed your phone," she responded, analyzing the situation logically and systematically. Finally, she said in a serious tone, "I''m absolutely heartbroken right now."


    Kallum started to feel nervous, his anger subsiding the moment he heard that she was upset. As a man, I shouldn''t be petty with a woman. Should I apologize to her first to appease her? But wouldn''t it be humiliating to do so when she''s the one in the wrong? "You don''t even want to sweet-talk me anymore. It seems I''ve fallen out of favor," she uttered with a sigh.


    "Calista!" He paused for a moment before continuing, "You... Stop messing around!"


    "I could, but you need to say something nice to me. Otherwise, I''ll get angry and might just storm off and nevere back."


    "Don''t joke about something like that!"


    "Well, then, are you going to sweet-talk me?" she asked.


    He stared at her wordlessly. This infuriating woman! I just can''t win with her!


    After ncing around and making sure that no one else was around, he said reluctantly, "I''m not angry. I''m just... scared. I don''t want you out of my sight."


    Then, his tone grew serious. "Sometimes, I don''t even want you to go to ss."


    She giggled. "Why? Is it because I''m not scared of you at all that you''re particrly attached to me?"


    He sighed and answered in a helpless voice, "Why? Do I even need to exin? While I''m alive, I hope the first person I see every day is you. And if I die, the person I hope to see in my final moments is still you."


    It made her chuckle softly to hear him utter romantic things so seriously. "The reason I''m in Corleon is so that you can... see me every day."


    "I''d rather die than let you risk your life," he said earnestly. Had I been willing to let her take risks, I wouldn''t have given up on getting the antibody injection to go and save her.


    "But what am I to do? I even gave you the thumb ring my grandmother gave me. If you were to die, who else could I possibly marry?" she asked.


    "You! You..." Kallum''s eyes suddenly sparkled. After all this time, it''s the first time she has ever mentioned anything about her feelings and given me a response!


    "What about me? I can''t win with


    you. Why am forever entangled with you?" Calista asked in frustration. Yet, deep down, she knew the answer. She had long lost the ability to fall for anyone else. However, Kallum was different because of her feelings for him that had spanned over two decades in her previous life. How could I simply forget all of that after twenty years of yearning?


    Suppressing his excitement, he finally let out a snort and replied, "It''s clear that I''m the one who can''t win with you."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll take good care of myself here and go back once a month. You''re not allowed to follow me."


    Her words hit Kallum like a bucket of


    cold water, and he gritted his teeth. "Don''t tell me that was why you uttered all those sweet remarks, was it? Do you think that''ll make me leave you be over there? I''m going to make a call right now to have someone bring you back


    "I''m afraid you''ll only end up disappointed," she said regretfully. "I have the thumb ring you gave me. They obey you, but they also obey me." "Calista!"


    "That''s all I have to say. Wait patiently for me to return. Remember, nothinges to those who are disobedient." With that, she ended the call.


    "Darn it..." he muttered while


    clutching the disconnected phone.


    ????????


    He was furious, yet he could not stop a smile from tugging on his lips. Did she mean that she put herself at risk without hesitation just so she could be with me? That dmned woman! Yet why can''t I bring myself to hate her?


    Thinking about how impossible she was, he swiftly made a phone call.


    "Prepare the jet. I''m going to Corleon," he instructed before hanging up. Sure she can take risks alone, but it has to be under my watchful eye!


    Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. He furrowed his brows. It must be Dad. Does she genuinely think that getting my father involved can sway me? That''s simply too naive.

 Chapter 185 Ghost Town

    But what he didn''t expect was that it was Wanda who came.


    As soon as Wanda reached the door, she overheard Kallum mentioning his ns to go to Corleon. She almost lost her breath. "Kallum, open the door. You''re going to Corleon? Are you trying to give me a heart attack or what?" Kallum''s smile froze momentarily, then his teeth gritted in frustration. Callie!


    Upon their arrival, Calista and her group were warmly received by the local government. Among them, Bowen stepped forward to represent their party.


    "Thank you for the assistance you''ve given our country. The small city is fraught with danger, so I''ll dispatch two hundred men to apany you. They''re all exceptional soldiers,mitted to ensuring your safety." Bowen expressed his gratitude with a smile. "Do you happen to know the current state of affairs in Jeahron?"


    The tan-skinned man who received them let out a sigh. "People are dying every day. Since the first patient was identified in this city, over a thousand have perished. Around three hundred infected with the virus are still alive, but that number is still rising... If you''re going in, you must be extremely cautious. I hope you can bring some good news.


    Bowen hastily assured, "Absolutely, we''re here specifically to conquer the virus."


    The two individuals exchanged a few pleasantries when suddenly, the other party inquired, "There are cases of the K Virus in Corleon and not just in Jeahron. May I ask, why are you so determined to go there? You should know that it''s a rather remote ce." Bowen nced at Calista. Of course, he couldn''t reveal that Calista had specifically requested to go to that ce. All he said was, "It''s close to the rainforest, which might be beneficial to our research."


    Calista was uninterested in their conversation. She was engrossed in her research. Jeahron was originally an ordinary small city until one day, a man suddenly died on the street, spewing blood. The city was then invaded by a virus named K Virus, and within a mere two months, a thousand people had perished. This was the destination of their journey, and there was a reason why she had chosen this ce. It was necessary to understand it before going there.


    Levi hovered around Calista, eager to please her. Thest time he saw her, his poor attitude had earned him a punishment from Kallum. This time, he was determined to do well.


    "Ms. Calista, I''ve just received news that because Mrs. Fairchild returned in time, Mr. Kallum should be preupied for now."


    Calista nodded. Everyone knew that Kallum would listen to no one, but Wanda, who suffered from a heart condition. He would at least spare a moment to listen to what she had to say.


    "For now, none of you are allowed to ry any messages to Kallum. Hand over all of yourmunication devices to me."


    "Yes, Ms. Calista," Levi replied with utmost respect. It wasmon knowledge that Calista was Kallum''s prized treasure. Offending anyone was tolerable, but not her.


    After Levi left, Calista continued to sit in the car, studying the map. She knew all too well that Wanda wouldn''t be able to stop Kallum, but if she could dy him for a while, that would be beneficial. After all, Calista had important matters to attend to.


    Ever since Kallum revealed to her that it was Sterling who had leaked her information, leading her to be captured by Uriah and nearly lose her life, her hatred for this man had reached its peak.


    However, there was a reason why she had never made a move, nor allowed Kallum to do so.


    In his previous life, Sterling had also been targeted by the Fairchild family once. The reason was that the Fairchild family had discovered evidence of their illicit arms dealing.


    They only managed to pull through because he suddenly received a substantial amount of wealth.


    Money could buy life, and it had once helped him survive a crisis, elevating his status even higher. It had even transformed Quincy into a top socialite. If Quincy was corre about the timing during her bragging, it wouldn''t be long before Sterling found that sum of money in Jeahron, a small border town in Corleon.


    Outsiders imed that Sterling had bought a piece ofnd and stumbled upon a diamond mine. However, Calista spected that this fortune was likely left behind by thete Uriah. It remained a mystery as to why it took Sterling a whole year to locate it.


    Now, she was here too, presented with such a great opportunity. Sterling would surely take action against her if he found out. And if she wanted to advance her own career, she was also quite interested in that sum of money. When the time came, they would settle both old scores and new ones together.


    When she stowed away the map,


    their conversation also came to an end. A convoy set off toward the remote city of Jeahron. On the road, golden sand billowed around them, and the sunlight bearing down felt like a burn on their skin. Although this ce was adjacent to Lostaria, it was significantly hotter.


    By the time they had traveled the great distance to Jeahron, it was already the evening of the next day.


    After the outbreak of the virus in thisOriginal content from N?velDrama.Org.


    city, all roads had been subjected to tightened security measures, which meant that no one could drive out. The only option was to leave on foot, and those who could walk were undoubtedly uninfected. This was because once infected, a person. would immediately experience a three-day fever and would not be able to walk out. Even more so, no one would risk their life to carry an infected person. Even if someone was willing, withoutprehensive treatment and care, the slightest jostle could end the life of the infected. In short, those who could leave were problem-free. Those who were ill were merely waiting for death. Additionally, there were some who, for various reasons, chose to


    remain in this city.


    "Ms. Calista, we''re here," Bowen said. Calista lifted her gaze and saw a city of moderate size ahead.


    Many overturned cars littered the streets, clearly left behind by those who had attempted to flee. From a distance, the city appeared to be a ghost town. But upon closer inspection, it was apparent that a significant number of people had chosen to stay.

 Chapter 186 Subjects Of Study

    Outside the city, there were many people lingering about, akin to refugees. It wasn''t hard to imagine that they must have been driven out by the healthier individuals.


    A boy, standing in the corner, was eagerly peering in this direction. Seeing the guards, he didn''t dare approach. However, when he spotted Calista, his eyes suddenly lit up. He came running over. "Could you give me something to eat?"


    Typically, it''s only women who are known to be soft-hearted, hence he took the risk of stepping out, solely for the purpose of finding something to eat.


    The soldier, assigned to protect them, immediately pointed his gun at him. "Back off."


    Seeing that they hadn''t killed anyone and had only told him to scram, the boy refused to give up and followed the group.


    "My mom''s starving. Please, I beg you to give her something to eat. Please."


    People kept sneaking nces in their direction as they passed by, seemingly trying to gauge whether the child would survive or not. If he were to die, this group would be untouchable to them. However, if the child survived, they could approach them for some food. The people sitting by the roadside cast longing nces at the passing trucks. If it hadn''t been for the intimidating city-goers they had encountered earlier, who had scared them off with their guns, they wouldn''t have been so well-behaved now. Calista observed the child who was simultaneously talking and crying, falling down only to get back up and continue following them. Although the soldiers were harsh toward him, they never went so far as to seriously harm him. It was evident they still harbored sympathy for him.


    Calista paused, and as she did, everyone else followed suit. It was then that the mixed-race military officer realized that Calista was the one calling the shots. "Come here."


    Calista spoke in the local dialect, waving at the boy. A look of surprise and delight crossed the boy''s face. He rushed over quickly. Though he was clearly excited, he was smart enough not to clutch at Calista''s clothes and instead maintained a respectful distance from her. "Please, could you spare some food? My mother is starving."


    The outskirts of the city were popted by the poor, most of whom were elderly, frail, or disabled. They were unable to leave even if they wanted to and were often subjected to expulsion by the city dwellers. Their lives were marked by profound hardship. "People who fell ill in the city were all driven out to the outskirts?" Calista asked.


    The boy nodded. "People in the city imed we''d bring them harm, so they drove us out. Could you spare some food..."


    "Are those patients still able to move because they have their loved ones by their side?"


    The boy nodded. "Those who can''t move have all been burnt to death."


    Calista gently patted his head. "If I give you any food now, others will snatch it awayter. So, gather the families of all the patients and meet me by therge tree up aheadter. I will distribute food to all of you then." "Really?" The boy, still quite young, epted what he heard without a shred of doubt.


    "Yeah."


    "Yay!" the boy eximed, then turned around to spread the news from house to house. Meanwhile, Bowen was left in confusion, unsure of what Calista was nning. He said hesitantly, "Ms. Calista, we don''t know how many people are here. I''m afraid the food we brought might not be enough."


    Calista chuckled. "Just let the local government handle the purchase. The bill is on Kallum. They''ll agree to it."


    "All right." Everyone scoffed internally. If someone was willing to y the fool, why would they possibly refuse?


    The soldiers'' expressions softened when they heard the directives from Calista. If they had the means, they too would have wanted to provide some food for these people, for their situation was truly pitiful.


    Upon reaching therge tree, Calista ordered for a camp to be set up. She decided not to head into the city just yet. It was easier to gather information outside the city walls.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Some of the people who had stayed


    behind didn''t believe the boy''s words at first. However, when they saw


    that Calista and her group hadn''t


    actually entered the city, but had set up camp instead, they excitedly gathered around, worried they might be toote for food.


    Calista instructed the soldiers to maintain order, then had Bowen prepare some food, acting as if she was about to make a charitable donation.


    By the time the aroma of oatmeal and pasta filled the air, quite a crowd had already gathered around.


    As there were soldiers brandishing guns, they didn''t dare to cut the line and obediently queued up instead.


    At that moment, Calista surreptitiously poured a vial of medicine into the oatmeal. She then informed the people who came to collect the food that the oatmeal was meant for the sick, as they were weak and frail, and the pasta was for them. These people were all rather obedient. After receiving their food, they immediately ate the pasta on the spot and took the oatmeal with them.


    Bowen made a phone call, then approached Calista. "Ms. Calista, I''ve already contacted the government. They expressed gratitude for our good deeds and also mentioned that they''re willing to donate some food as well."


    In reality, the local government


    .n


    might be criticizing them for their unnecessary actions. Those who had food were all healthy individuals, while those without were either patients or rtives of patients They were all considered high-risk groups who had long been abandoned. Yet, since Calista had donated food, they couldn''t very well not do the same.


    Calista nodded. "I''ve already added our improved inhibitors into the oatmeal. Although it might slightly affect the medicine''s potency, it shouldn''t be a big issue. After eating the oatmeal, the patients should feel a bit morefortable in the future." "You truly are a kind-hearted girl," Bowen said sincerely, assuming that Calista''s actions were purely out ofpassion.


    Calista shook her head. "They are also our subjects of study. We must maintain a good rtionship with them. Later, I n to visit each one to check on their conditions. I''ll have to trouble you with the follow-up work here."

 Chapter 187 The First Patient In The City

    "How can this be allowed? Just let someone else do it. It''s too dangerous for you."


    "It''s fine," Calista reassured. She had other intentions for this trip, and she was determined to take care of it personally.


    The line was moving rather slowly, so Calista seized the opportunity to pose a few questions to the people waiting in line. "Do you know the first person who fell ill? Does the first person who fell ill have any friends?" After asking several people without any sess, she noticed a boy at the end of the line. He looked anxious as if he was worried that the food might run out before it was his turn.


    Calista smiled, turning to the person next to her. "Derek, get me a bowl of oatmeal and pasta."


    "Sure." Derek was a man of few words and quite a looker. Calista found him agreeable, thus she remembered his name.


    After getting the food, Calista waved at the boy. "Come here."


    The boy''s eyes lit up and he hastily ran over. The others were slightly disgruntled, but upon recognizing it was Calista, they wisely held their tongues. Offending her could potentially mean going hungry. Calista held the food, yet she did not give it to him. "What''s your name?"


    "Rupert. My name is Rupert." He stared intently at the bowl for quite some time before finally shifting his gaze toward Calista.


    "Do you know Pierre?" Pierre was the person she had just learned about, the first one who fell ill.


    "I do." Surprisingly, the boy nodded. "Mr. Pierre often gives me food."


    Calista narrowed her eyes and noticed the sun was nearing its descent. She chuckled and said, "How about I walk you home? You''re so young. If someone were to snatch your food away, you''d go hungry."


    She wasn''t trying to scare him. A single bowl of pasta for each person was simply not enough for some.


    Thinking that there was nothing in his home that others might covet, Rupert said hesitantly, "You don''t mind? My mother... my mother has contracted the virus."


    The underlying message was that it would be dangerous to go over there.


    "It''s all right," Calista said with a smile. "Lead the way."


    Upon seeing Calista leave, both Levi and Derek hastily followed her. They traversed a path riddled with potholes and uneven ground. Calista halted in front of a shack, and even before they entered, they were hit with an unpleasant odor.


    Levi and Derek had already put on their protective masks early on, and Calista had done the same. As soon as they entered, they saw a woman lying on a straw mat. Although she had endured a high fever for three days, she seemed to be on herst legs. "Mom." The moment he saw her, Rupert was filled with distress. "Mom, I''ve brought you something to eat."


    The woman''s parched lips moved slightly. When she saw Calista, there was not a hint of emotion in her eyes. Everyone knew what fate awaited those who contracted the virus.


    "Mom, say something. Are you thirsty? Let me get you some water."


    Rupert skillfully offered water to the woman. Seeing that she seemed a little more energized, Calista said, "Have some oatmeal. It might make you feel better." She then asked Derek to feed her.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Levi felt a need to do something, so he beckoned to Rupert. "You must be hungry too. Come and have some pasta."


    Seeing that his mother was already eating, Rupert began digging in as well. He was extremely hungry. After finishing the food his father had left behind, he had been eating whatever he could find for the past three days. His mother had been doing the same.


    Once they had finished eating, Calista began to exin her intentions. mean no harm. We are a special support medical team from Chanaea, specifically here tobat the K Virus. We have a few questions for you. Of course, in


    an


    return, we will leave some food for


    your child."


    The woman initially showed no reaction. It was only when the topic of food was mentioned that she nced at her child and spoke in a hoarse voice. "Go ahead and ask."


    Calista nodded.


    "Do you know the first patient in the city?"


    The woman thought it was a strange question but honest nheless. "I do... His name is Pierre... He used to be my neighbor..."


    A hint of a smile shed in Calista''s eyes. "Do you know where he went on the day he fell ill?"


    The woman coughed twice. "He went hunting. Sometimes, the men around here crave meat, so they head into the woods to hunt."


    Calista slightly raised an eyebrow. "So, do you know where he was hunting that day?"


    "I do... He... often went hunting at a secret location with my man... My son knows about it too."


    Seeing that the head of the family was nowhere in sight for quite a while, Calista asked, "Where is the child''s father?"


    The woman''s eyes dimmed. "We were driven out by the people in the city... We had no food, no money, and no job. My man had no choice but to hunt in the forest every day, but he... he never returned after he left three days ago."


    If it had been in the past, she could have asked others to help her search. But now, everyone outside the city was too preupied with their own affairs. No one had the time to look for others.


    "I see." Calista lowered her gaze,


    then suddenly suggested, "How


    about this? We need to visit the


    woods for our research anyway. Let


    your son guide us there tomorrow,


    and perhaps we can help you find


    the child''s father along the way."


    A glimmer of light finally emerged in the woman''s eyes. "That will be wonderful. You all are truly kind-hearted."

 Chapter 188 A Business Proposition

    Rupert, wise beyond his years, confidently stated, "I know where my dad usually goes. I''ll take you there."


    Calista nodded and took her leave after setting the time. Once outside, she turned to Derek and instructed, "Stay here. If anyonees looking for trouble, chase them away immediately." "Got it." Derek didn''t utter a single word of nonsense and just stayed right there.


    Levi was an astute individual. Upon seeing Calista iming to be visiting to inquire about the patients'' conditions, yet asking all sorts of unrted questions, he deduced that her stated reason foring to Jeahron was a cover for other motives. "You''re curious, aren''t you?" Calista asked him.


    "I wouldn''t dare." Levi was a rather slick individual, and he was in histe thirties or early forties. His curiosity had all but faded.


    Calista chuckled. "Corleon and Lostaria share a border, right? If I''m not mistaken, a year ago after Kallum killed Uriah, he must have received a considerable amount of money, correct?"


    Levi nodded. "That was Uriah''s hideout. He did receive a considerable sum."


    "Kallum fell ill because Uriah secretly researched the K Virus. So, when you guys seized the supplies, did you find anything rted to the K Virus there?"


    Levi was momentarily stunned before he shook his head. "No."


    Calista narrowed her eyes and said, "Considering a mad cultist who''d risk the lives of two thousand people to feed a virus, do you think he would merely dabble with the K Virus? They''ve even extracted the Influenza T virus from the K Virus. So, can I suspect that he has more than one hideout, and that somewhere else, he''s stashed something rted to the K Virus?"


    Levi immediately caught on, his eyes slightly widened at that moment. In a hushed voice, he asked, "Are you suggesting that the first person to fall ill had inadvertently visited the hideout left behind by Uriah and brought the K Virus to Jeahron?"


    Calista nodded. "Yes, I think that''s a pretty urate guess. After all, a wise man always has a n B. Considering this is a neighboring country of Lostaria, it''s impossible that Uriah wouldn''t have left himself an escape route." Levi looked at the calm Calista in shock. The more he thought about it, the more he felt it could be possible.


    Before they arrived, everyone had perceived this ce as a small city suddenly affected by the virus. But Calista had deduced such terrifying information from just a few clues. If all of this were true, it would make her incredibly formidable.


    If it were just this bit of information, Calista wouldn''t have been so sure. But the moment she thought of how Sterling had made a fortune here in her past life and narrowly escaped a disaster, she felt that her spection was already very close to the truth. After all, Sterling had coborated with Uriah in the past, so he must have received some information. However, he wasn''t sure about the exact location, which was why he had been searching for a long time.


    And she, seizing the opportunity, had arrived here first. She would subtly leak some information to him, luring him over. When the time came, with her intentions against his obliviousness, it would be easy for her to present Sterling with a spectacr ending. Moreover, she would be able to amass a substantial fortune, making the journey utterly worthwhile.


    After careful consideration, Levi cautiously posed his question.


    "Ms. Calista, should we send word back home? If this is true, it will be safer for us to start preparing early."


    "No. Things are still uncertain, so let''s not say anything about it for now. When the timees, I''ll reach out to them."


    Levi assumed that she was worried


    about the Fairchild family stealing her belongings. He reassured her, "Ms. Calista, there''s no need to worry. If this matter is indeed true, no one will dare to covet what''s yours. I believe it will be more prudent to bring in some additional help."


    "No need for now." Calista gave a smile. "I have my own ns."


    The following day, Jarrett was abruptly roused from his dreams by a phone call.


    "Calista, do you know what time it is?" His voice was somber, carrying the heavy tone of someone who had just woken up.


    Calista gave a somewhat apologetic smile. "I''m sorry, I forgot about the time difference. But usually, when I seek you out, it''s for something beneficial. If you don''t show up, you might regret it."Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Jarrett was well aware that Calista


    wouldn''t call unless it was something important. This realization stung a little, making his tone increasingly icy. "I wonder what could possibly be so urgent that you''d call me at three in the morning."


    Calista chuckled lightly. "I''ve got a business proposition for you. You''re dealing arms on the sly, just like Sterling. Don''t you want to take him out and seize the lion''s share?"


    "Are you still half asleep? Taking out Sterling is easier said than done."


    "There''s an opportunity right now. If you''re still not fully awake, I''ll wait until you are before we discuss it."


    "Hold on." Jarrett found it odd. "Where''s Kallum? If you have something to do, why not look for him?"


    "The Fairchild family has always


    been legitimate arms dealers. Eliminating Sterling might be beneficial but the profit isn''t significant. However, it''s a different story with you. I genuinely want to bring this opportunity to you."


    The more Jarrett listened, the more it didn''t seem right. "Where are you now?"


    "Corleon."


    "You''re not nning to lure Sterling to Corleon just to settle a personal score and kill him, are you? Let me tell you, Sterling won''t fall for it."


    Jarrett thought that Calista was being a bit fanciful.


    "Hmm, you''re half right. Of course, I have a way to reel him in. You''ll see when you get here."

 Chapter 189 There Is A Deer

    Calista was about to hang up the phone when Jarrett''s voice rang out.


    "Wait, onest question."


    "Hmm?"


    "Is Kallum around?"


    Calista chuckled. "No, he''s not."


    "All right, I''m on my way now."


    After hanging up the phone, Calista shook her head with a smile. She felt as if she was having a secret affair.


    She put away the phone and stepped outside. Her crew was all set and ready to go. These were her people, not a single soldier among them. They were headed for a vast mountainous area and she wasn''t certain they''d find what they were looking for on the first try. So, she was rtively rxed about it.


    Without asking any questions, Bowen, under the protection of a group of soldiers, began interviewing each individual infected with the K Virus. With subjects for his study, the progress of his research could quickly advance.


    The remaining soldiers were assigned to clean up an abandoned hospital, which was ted to be a research station. Under Calista''s guidance, everything proceeded in an orderly manner.


    Meanwhile, Kallum, clutching his phone, was in a terribly sour mood.


    Several days had passed, yet he hadn''t received a single phone call. D*mn that woman! She lied about wanting to cure me and be with me!


    "Mr. Kallum, are you sure about this? If Mrs. Fairchild were to have a heart attack..." Ryder held his phone, clearly conflicted.


    Kallum shot him a nce. "All you needed to do is call Air Defense Command."


    At that moment, Quintus walked in. "Mr. Kallum, there''s movement from the Wolford family."


    Over the past year, Kallum had been periodically causing trouble for the Wolford family. Calista had asked him to hold off for a while, so he had simply kept a close eye on them through his informants. Gradually, Kallum discovered something very peculiar.


    The Wolford family must be in dire need of money, and they probably harbored a deep resentment toward him. Yet, Sterling did not choose to form another marriage alliance, nor did he carry out any form of revenge. Kallum didn''t believe that the Wolford family had changed their nature. Their actions seemed as if they were searching for something.


    And so, Kallum had people keep a close watch. As soon as they had a clear objective, he would be the first to know.


    Now, Sterling had finally made a move.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    "What did he do?" Kallum asked.


    Quintus replied seriously, "He went to Corleon but we''re not sure where specifically. I''ve received news that Ms. Calista seems to be intentionally luring him to find her."


    "This woman..." Kallum didn''t want to talk about her anymore. Shecks the self-awareness expected of a woman. Sterling harbors a deep-seated hatred toward me, so naturally, he feels the same toward her. Yet, at such a time, she dares to provoke a ticking time bomb all by herself.


    She absolutely has to be brought back for a proper lesson.


    "I''ll set off in the afternoon."


    "But what about Mrs. Fairchild..."


    Kallum had been quite vexed by his mother, but not anymore. "If she knew Callie was in danger, she would support me too."


    At that time, Calista had no idea what Kallum was up to. They had been following Rupert around this area for quite a while, but they had found nothing.


    In order to protect themselves from


    venomous insects and poisonous


    pollen, they were all bundled up tightly. After eight hours of travel, they were drenched in sweat. However, Calista only broke a light sweat. During their break for food, Calista gazed at the dense forest in front of them with a thoughtful expression on her face.


    "Do we keep going?" Levi asked, handing over a bottle of water. Calista nced at the listless Rupert and shook her head.


    "ording to their ount, the man left at noon and returned the next day at the same time. Considering the distance and speed of his round trip, he could have only reached this vicinity Furthermore, he was running a high fever due to infection when he returned, which would have definitely slowed his pace. In other words, if he came this way, he would have certainly not


    I a


    evi


    gone any further. We must have just


    missed him on our way here."


    The forest here was so thick. It was understandable to miss something. Levi nodded. "You''re right. After we eat, we''ll search for another hour. If we find no traces, we''ll head back. How does that sound?"


    "All right." Calista nodded, settling down to start eating.


    At that moment, the bushes rustled. Someone peered over and immediately eximed with joy, "There''s a deer."


    They had encountered numerous animals, but all were too small. The sight of a deer now stirred a bit of excitement in them. This was a splendid find, as they could have an extra meal that night.


    Upon hearing themotion, Calista was quicker than them to look over. Her sight was sharper too, and she noticed a speck of blood on the deer''s body, causing her pupils to slightly constrict. "Grab it. Remember, don''t touch the blood on its body."


    Levi quickly sent two people to chase after it. Momentster, a gunshot echoed in the distance. The two individuals returned, carrying the deer with an air of ease.


    Calista asked, "You didn''t get any of its blood on you, did you?"


    Both of them shook their heads. "No."


    Only then did Calista put on gloves to examine the dead deer. The deer was stained with blood, which could mean two things-it was either the blood of another creature or the deer itself was injured.


    If it were someone else''s, it would be


    a bit risky. This was because Rupert''s father had also entered the forest and disappeared. Assuming, he had died here from the K Virus,af the deer came into contact with his blood, anyone who unknowingly touched the bloodstain would be at risk of infection. Fortunately, the K Virus was too potent; animals infected would die immediately. So, the first possibility was not likely, but she chose to err on the side of caution.

 Chapter 190 We Have Found Something

    Turning the creature onto its back, Calista discovered the source of the blood. The deer had been injured, but the wound wasn''t deep. It was a crossbow injury.


    In this area, many of the less fortunate crafted their own crossbows. The weapons were fairly effective mainly because the materials were easy to find. They were sufficient for hunting small animals. "Rupert, what do your dad use for hunting?" Calista smiled at the boy.


    Rupert quickly exined in detail, "Dad uses a crossbow he made himself. Most of the men here use the same. They also set traps. But Dad said, to avoid disputes, he purposely made his arrowheads cross-shaped, not triangr."


    "Such a good boy," Calista murmured, looking down at the cross-shaped wound on the deer. How lucky that I stumbled upon this evidence just when I needed it. This deer is proof that the boy''s father has been here. And since they''re just ordinary people, to have been able to hit such a nimble deer, it must have been distracted. Perhaps it was eating or drinking...


    Following the shot, the boy''s father realized that his crossbow had done little damage to the deer. It could also have been due to his exhaustion at the time, leaving him with insufficient strength and resulting in a shallow wound.


    If he was tired, it must have beente in the day. He would likely have chosen to descend the mountain, given that his wife and child were waiting for him. However, on his way back, he might have fallen into some kind of trap or stumbled upon something...This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    In this region, there are norge beasts, yet he has been missing for three days. As a seasoned hunter, he should be well-acquainted with things like traps. The only usible exnation is that he stumbled upon a mysterious location and, unluckily, got trapped there, or perhaps even died there.


    After carefully analyzing the situation and feeling confident that nothing had been overlooked, Calista asked, "Rupert, is there any water source nearby?"


    Rupert pondered for a moment. "Yes, there is a smallke."


    Calista''s eyes lit up. "Take us there. There might be some clues."


    Rupert nodded, and the group, carrying the deer, headed toward theke.


    The elongatedke was quite clean, with beautiful aquatic nts flourishing beneath its surface. Judging from various footprints along the shore, it seemed like amon watering hole for both humans and animals. Rupert''s father had likelye here to quench his thirst and happened upon a deer. "Search around this area and see if there are any clues. Be thorough in your search."


    "Got it." Everyone she brought with her knew what she was looking for. They began to search meticulously around every inch of the area.


    Rupert pouted, tugging at Calista''s sleeve.


    ""My dad''s going to be all right, isn''t he?"


    His father had been missing for three to four days. To say he wasn''t scared would be a lie, but deep down, he was always clinging to a sliver of hope, praying that nothing unfortunate had happened.


    Calista didn''t want to deceive him. Based on her judgment, if someone disappeared without a trace for three to four days, especially under these circumstances, the likelihood of them being dead was quite high.


    Rupert seemed to have guessed her


    thoughts. He lowered his head, his eyes suddenly brimming with


    unshed tears. When they were


    searching for his father earlier, bet


    had been the most anxious. He had endured an eight to nine-hour journey without uttering a single word, all with the hope of seeing his father alive.


    "When Dad left, he told me to take good care of Mom and promised he would bring back meat. But... I don''t want meat. I want Dad toe back..."


    He cried silently, not daring to let his voice grow louder, as if he feared others would be annoyed and he would lose his worth.


    Calista listened to his sobs, sighing deeply after a long while. She drew him into her embrace, seemingly ufortable with others'' proximity, yet she refrained from pushing him away. "Don''t cry... If something happens to your dad, I''ll take you with me."


    Calista feared that Rupert''s mother might not make it through and he would be left behind.


    "No... I''m not leaving." Rupert suddenly pushed Calista, his face filled with fear. "I need to protect my mom..."


    Calista didn''t me him. At that moment, a message came from Derek.


    "Ms. Calista, we''ve found something."


    Calista swept aside her mncholy emotions and put on a straight face again. She led Rupert and the others as they moved toward the location where Derek had been.


    This was a dense forest, where a


    thickyer of leaves had


    umted on the ground. The rotting leaves underneath added a slight musty smell to the air. With no shrubbery around, the area was devoid of small animals, making it even more secluded than other ces. On the ground, there was a subtle depression. When Calista arrived, Derek used a stick to clear the area, revealing a cave that sloped downward.


    "Ms. Calista, there are signs of someone having slipped here. They must have fallen."


    "Dad?" Rupert was startled, wanting to move closer, but Levi held him back.


    "Two of you stay here. The rest of youe down with me. Keep a close eye on the child."


    Although Rupert was anxious, he knew that his interference at this moment would only cause chaos. As he watched Calista and the others fully equipped and ready to depart, he suddenly spoke to Calista with urgency. "Dad''s bald. If you happen to see him..."


    "If he''s there, I will bring him out."


    After she finished speaking, she followed Levi down.


    The slope was incredibly steep. Given the leak of the K Virus, they each meticulously checked their protective suits hidden beneath their clothing before descending, their gas masks firmly in ce.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 191 The Laboratory Of Uriah

    Levi was the first to descend, securing the rope. It didn''t take much effort for Calista to follow suit. After approximately ten minutes, they reached the bottom. Levi ignited a glow stick, illuminating the entire space, including the corpse at his feet. The deceased was bald. Upon inspection, Calista discovered that the unfortunate man hadn''t fallen victim to the virus; rather, he had met his end by striking his head against a rock. His face was unrecognizable after a series of tumbles. Yet, even in death, he had not relinquished his grip on a Calista hadn''t been emotionally stirred for a long time. Suddenly, she found herself somewhat distressed.


    pitiful little wild rabbit, holding onto it even as he drew hisst breath.


    In her previous life, the Stafford family had been reduced to ruins. Benedict had been ruthlessly discarded after being used to the fullest. In the end, he was left with nothing but mountains of debt. As his life was nearing its end, he used hisst bit of connections to sell his kidney for one hundred and fifty thousand. He entrusted the money to her, which allowed her to escape from Horington.


    Though he had made many mistakes and misced his trust in numerous people, by the end, Calista found that she no longer harbored any resentment toward him. In this lifetime, she had certainly not caused him any harm.


    "Leave one person to take him up there. The reste with me."


    Calista moved forward. Her expression remained hidden beneath her mask, but her eyes sparkled with a vibrant light.


    Rather than harboring resentment for the past, she preferred to dedicate her time to exacting revenge on her enemies. She had been waiting for this moment for a long time. Kallum had the power to imprison Sterling, ruin his reputation, and even drive him to bankruptcy. But what she wanted was his death-a miserable death and a death filled with despair.


    In her previous life, he had infected her with the K Virus. In this life, she had meticulously crafted the perfect demise for Sterling.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    She was willing to delegate almost anything to others, but when it came to the thrilling task of revenge, she absolutely refused to share the pleasure with anyone.


    "Ms. Calista, please be careful. How about you walk behind me?"


    Derek gave her a gentle tug.


    Calista smiled. "It''s okay. You''re stronger. You can cover our rear while Levi takes the lead up front."


    "Sure."


    After passing through the stone cave, the group arrived at a winding tunnel.


    A man of modest height, Elijah, stated, "This ce appears to be a natural cave that has been modified." He studied it meticulously, using equipment to conduct a test. "It was built a decade ago."


    Calista nodded. "The timing adds up too. This could be the treasure left behind by Uriah."


    Behind Uriah was a vast cult, a product of generations of indoctrination. Hemanded arge group of fanatically loyal followers. With their unwavering support, his wealth was substantial enough to topple a nation, which led to the upheaval in Lostaria. Therefore, the fortune he left behind was likely no small sum.


    Furthermore, he was an incredibly proud and cunning man. There was no way he would ever share his possessions with anyone else. If he had, Sterling wouldn''t have had a chance in his previous life, and neither would Calista in this one.


    An unpleasant odor wafted through


    the air. Although everyone was wearing gas masks, preventing them from detecting the smell, Calista''s senses were exceptional keen. She quickly instructed everyone to step back and tossed a glow stick ahead. There, scattered on the ground, were several boxes, one of which was already open. Broken test tubes had fallen out from within. They were the source of the foul smell.


    "Up ahead should be aboratory. I never imagined that Uriah would have conducted his experiments here. I just don''t understand why it was abandoned."


    Upon hearing the word boratory," everyone thought about the K Virus. They swiftly pulled out protective headgear from their backpacks, adding anotheryer of defense. Now, each person was wrapped up so tightly that not a single draft could get through. Only then did they proceed onward.


    Sure enough, after walking for about five to six minutes, they came across aboratory that had been converted from a stone chamber. It was filled with various equipment, different types of medicinal solutions, test tubes, electrical appliances, as well as a plethora of documents and books.


    More importantly, there were quite a fewpletely decayed bodies on the ground, covered in blue moss.


    Even the walls were covered in this peculiar moss, which shimmered under the glow of the fluorescent light.


    The scene before them was akin to something straight out of a horror movie. However, when Levi nced at Calista, he saw not a trace of fear in her eyes. "What is this?"


    Someone had the urge to touch those patches of moss.


    "Don''t touch it. That''s a crystallization of the K Virus, not actual moss."


    As soon as Calista spoke, everyone tensed up, keeping a wide berth from those blue objects.


    The concentration of the K Virus here had grown so intense that it could practically crystallize.


    Had they not been well-trained, most people would have been scared off a long time ago.


    Although they were tightly wrapped up, they still held their breath subconsciously, fearing that breathing too much might expose them to illness.


    Calista felt somewhat relieved.


    Thankfully, before they entered, they


    had fully prepared themselves,


    opting for thetest generation of t


    precision protective suits from Danontand. They were lightweight yet secure. Otherwise, a regr protective suit might not have been able to withstand the harsh conditions of the deadly terrain.


    "It seems this ce was abandoned likely due to the explosion of the K Virus incubator. The inhtion of an excessive amount of the virus could cause a fatal fever within ten minutes. In such a heavily infected environment, I fear that even breathing and contact could lead to transmission."


    Everyone who heard Calista''s words was somewhat frightened. This ce was truly terrifying.


    Calista spected that it was for this reason that Uriah did not move his wealth away.


    This ce was already quite secluded, and the K Virus acted like a barrier. Anyone who came here carelessly would fall prey to it, making it a safe ce to store resources.

 Chapter 192 Why People Must Die

    "Keep moving forward and be careful." "Yes, Ms. Calista."


    The more they interacted with Calista, the more they found themselves believing in her. She was alwaysposed, and her face rarely showed any emotion other than a cold smirk, a lightugh, or indifference. Though this made her seem somewhat unapproachable, it


    also made it easy for people to trust her.


    After passing through several stone chambers, the person leading the way up ahead came to a stop.


    Elijah nced at the instrument in his hand and reported, "Something''s not right with the soil here. The detector found something beneath."


    "It must be something like explosives," Calista spected.


    Levi said, "These are just trifles. Wait here for a moment."


    After he finished speaking, he led his team to handle these minor nuisances. Once the bomb was defused, they smoothly made their way to a door.


    The door, seemingly constructed from an unidentified metal, appeared incredibly sturdy. It was equipped with a password lock. Elijah informed her that this particr lock allowed only three incorrect attempts before the contents within would be destroyed.


    "Ms. Calista, this isn''t necessarily difficult. It''s just that we''re short on the right equipment. How about wee back tomorrow?" Elijah suggested, holding the instrument in his hand.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Calista nced at the four-digit code. "Why don''t we give it a try?"


    "Try what?"


    With a smile, Calista said, "When Uriah was plotting to blow up the refugee camp before, he also used a four-digit password, 4379. Why not give it a shot? We have three chances anyway." Everyone fell silent for a moment, but they knew they had to do as told.


    "Step back a bit," Elijah instructed. Then, with great care, he punched in a four-digit code.


    Everyone held their breath in anticipation. The only sound that broke the silence was a crisp "ding," followed by the mechanical hum of the door-it had opened.


    Everyone was stirred with excitement. Derek and Elijah were the first to enter. No one knew what switch they had flipped, but suddenly, the entire cave was illuminated by tube lights. As Calista stepped inside, she was met with a sight of resources piled up like a mountain. There were weapons, gold bricks, drugs, and even boxes upon boxes of foreign currency.


    In her previous life, she had never seen so much money. But now, all of this was hers.


    It was only when she reached this point that she finally revealed a genuine smile. Her eyes radiated a sense of dominance.


    As they made their way back, their steps were noticeably lighter. However, upon seeing Rupert weeping beside the corpse, Calista couldn''t help but feel a wave of sorrow. The pain of parting with a loved one was something one could never grow ustomed to. "Stop crying," Calista said in a dry tone.


    Rupert''s small face was a mess from crying. He simply couldn''t stop the tears.


    "My dad''s gone... What do I do? What am I going to do without my dad..." Calista pulled him up, meeting his gaze.


    "Though it''s harsh, you must pull yourself together. Your mother is waiting for you down the mountain Even though you''re only thirteen, with your father gone, you''re the one who has to hold up this family now."


    "I can''t..." Rupert''s eyes were filled with despair. "Dad''s gone. Mom will be too... I''ll be next... I just can''t..."


    "Snap out of it." Calista had no experience in coaxing people, but it was clear that her words were of no use.


    Rupert continued to sob,


    overwhelmed by the loss of his father and the uncertainty of the future. Coupled with the precarious state of his mother''s health, his tears flowed so profusely that he was almost gasping for breath.


    "What should I do? What am I supposed to do? I can''t handle this. I can''t be without my dad... Why did my dad have to die?" Rupert asked in a raspy voice.


    Although the person who had brought up the corpse had already exined it to him, he still wanted to know why people must die.


    His cries gradually wore down Calista''s patience. She abruptly removed the mask from her face and told him off.


    "Why? Let me tell you. It''s because they were weak."


    Rupert was taken aback.


    Calista gazed at him, yet it seemed as though her focus was somewhere beyond him. Her eyes emitted a cold light.


    "His weakness was the reason he couldn''t protect his wife and child. It was his weakness that led to his expulsion, his poverty, his necessity to risk his life hunting, and ultimately, his death."


    It took a moment for Rupert toprehend her words. He stopped crying and red at her.


    "You''re so cold-hearted! You''re nothing but a devil!"


    Rupert turned to flee,pletely taken aback by Calista''s true colors. He simply couldn''t ept the way she had spoken in front of his father''s remains.


    Dad is already dead, yet she kept speaking ill of him, belittling him. Such a person has nopassion at all. She is nothing short of a devil.


    He had barely taken a step when Calista grabbed him. She looked down, studying Rupert''s face, which was a mix of fear and stubbornness. His gaze was somewhat fierce.


    "Where do you think you''re going? Do you really believe that running away will change anything?"


    Rupert struggled fiercely. "Let me go! You''re terrifying! You will never understand how upset I am! Let go, you devil!"


    Calista scoffed, "Look at yourself


    now, what a sight you are. Your


    father may have been weak, but there''s no denying he was a good man. He died clutching a rabbit, trying to fulfill his promise to bring you meat. And what are you doing? You''re crying; you''re in despair. Your body is already weak, and if your will is just as frail, then you''ll end up like your father, putting all your effort into providing for the family, yet in reality, achieving nothing."

 Chapter 193 I Can Get Sterling Killed Here

    Rupert was left disoriented by Calista''s words. His eyes were still filled with tears, but he no longer struggled. Instead, he felt a sense of bewilderment.


    Calista released him. "Do you really want to end up like your father? He had the desire to protect his family but couldn''t. He wished to provide a good life for you but was powerless to do so. Do you want to be a weakling, ultimately dying a pathetic death?" Her voice remained icy cold, yet within its frigid tone, an undertone of reproof lingered-a subtle questioning, perhaps. Throughout his life, Rupert had never encountered anyone who spoke to him with such severity nor had anyone ever so brutally exposed the harsh reality andid it bare before him.


    Although he was only thirteen, his father''s death forced him to grow up prematurely. He was no longer just a child.


    "Someone who loves his family, yet incapable of doing anything right? A helpless weakling?" Rupert muttered. He couldn''t deny that Calista''s words were true. In this region, most impoverished families were like his. Many heads of households couldn''t even take care of their own needs, let alone their family''s. As a result, the women ended up doing most of the work.


    Some people, like his father, genuinely wanted to take care of their families. However, due to various reasons such as limited abilities and wisdom, they could only strive their utmost to keep their family barely alive. It wasn''t because his father wasn''t good enough. It was simply because they were too weak.


    "I''m sorry..." Rupert suddenly closed his eyes, kneeling before the lifeless body. "I refuse to be weak any longer. I won''t let anyone drive me out of my home or rob me of my food! Dad, I want to be strong! I want to protect Mom!"


    There was no point in bringing the body back, so Calista decided to bury it in the forest.


    When they returned, Rupert was noticeably quieter. It was as if he had grown up in a single day, a kind of growth that many would rather avoid.


    Levi heaved a sigh, once again sensing the formidable presence of Calista.


    Love is never cheap, yet it often falls short of expectations. It''s akin to how all parents wish to give their children the best, but they mightck the means to do so. Can we me them for this? No. But does it mean they are free from responsibility? Certainly not. In the end, those who find themselves in adversity must first possess a strong heart in order to grow into strong individuals.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    By the time they returned, Jarrett had already arrived. Upon seeing Calista return, he rose from his seat, a glint shing behind his sses. His immacte suit and attention to detail were clear indicators of his sess as a businessman. His narrow eyes carried a hint of charm that made him particrly appealing to women.


    "Getting a chance to see you is truly no easy feat," Jarrett scoffed, his tone brimming with dissatisfaction. He was someone others would line up to meet, yet here he was, having sat idle for three whole hours.


    "Did you fly here directly?" Calista took the damp towel handed to her and wiped her face before striding toward him.


    After some time apart, Jarrett noticed that Calista seemed to have changed even more.


    When they first met, Calista was nothing more than a young girl, sleeping in a rundown motel. When she approached him, asking for two hundred thousand, her boldness was evident, yet she still had an air


    of innocence about her. Honane


    in


    just a year''s time, she had transformed into a formidable figure, capable of matching any man. If anyone thought they could take advantage of her, they''d better be prepared for the possibility of a crushing defeat.


    Coming back to his senses, Jarrett chuckled lightly. "Ms. Calista, I dare not waste time since you''ve extended an invitation. So tell me, what brings you to seek me out?"


    Calista pointed toward arge tree nearby. It was evening and free food was being distributed here, hence the area under the tree was cleared. They continued their conversation as they walked.


    "In the underground arms market in South East Aploth, how many percent of market share does the Sinir family hold?"


    Jarrett gave her a sidelong nce. "It''s such a vast market, and you''re asking how many percent right off the bat. That''s rather greedy. Besides, the Sinir family doesn''t focus on this area. We only hold a small half-percent stake. The Wolford family is doing slightly better, holding just over one percent."


    "Are you interested in this area?"


    Jarrett lit up a cigarette. "To say I''m not interested would be a lie. Even though my family wants to clean up its act, we still need to make a living. The benefits involved here are enough for us topromise some of our principles."


    "That''s good, then," Calista said with a light chuckle. "I can get Sterling killed here. Do you think you can take over his share?"


    Jarrett was stunned. When Calista mentioned killing Sterling, her tone didn''t waver in the slightest. It was as if she was talking about stepping on an ant. Her mental fortitude was truly extraordinary.


    He was aware that the Fairchild


    family had been dominating the


    Wolford family for the past year. However, if Calista was willing to let Kallum take action, she wouldn''t have waited until now. As far as he knew, Kallum already had the evidence that couldnd Sterling in jail. But he had not made a move yet, and the only possible reason was Calista.


    Seemingly sensing his confusion, Calista added, "If we were to send him to prison, it''s uncertain whether it would be sessful on the first try. Even if he was imprisoned, he


    wouldn''t die. The Wolford famil


    would indeed suffer a huge financial loss, even to the point of bankruptcy, but they would still be alive and well. I don''t wish for that to happen." Calista revealed a mysterious smile. "Based on reliable information, Sterling wille here with only a few people. Even if he knows I''m here, he won''t bring many."

 Chapter 194 Are You For Real

    "That''s impossible," Jarrett retorted. "Sterling has numerous enemies. Whenever he goes to unsafe ces, he never brings less than fifty people with him. And that''s a conservative estimate. Those people are internationally renowned mercenaries. Not ordinary people can


    handle


    them."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista chuckled. "This time it''s different. At the very least, there''s one ce where he''ll have minimal guards. It''s there that we can take his life."


    Seeing Calista seemingly at ease and joking around, Jarrett responded with a mix of sincerity and jest, "Fine, as long as you have a way to take him down, I have a way to absorb his power. No matter how you look at it, I''m the one who benefits. But with such a good opportunity, why didn''t you approach Kallum?"


    Calista looked at him with a half-smile.


    "What do you think my rtionship with Kallum is?"


    Jarrett took a drag from his cigarette. "More than family, less than lovers? Who knows what kind of game you''re ying?"


    Calista shook her head. "Even though I''m entangled with the Fairchild family, and Kallum is always at my beck and call, I can''t deny that he''s special. But I''m always scared. When a person loses everything and then gets it back, they catch a disease called unease. No matter how good the current situation is, I still want to n an escape route for myself."


    Jarrett was somewhat bewildered as he listened, but he understood thest sentence. "So, you''re helping me just to make me your backup n?"


    He found it amusing. There was no way Kallum would ever let go of Calista. Moreover, Kallum had an intense personality; if he loved someone, he would elevate them to the highest pedestal. No one else could possibly interfere. This worry of hers was arguably for nothing.


    Calista nodded solemnly. "If something happens, it''s best if you give me a way out. If not, I''m not afraid of giving you an advantage. The Fairchild family is already flourishing. For Kallum, Sterling is just icing on the cake. For you, although it''s not exactly a lifesaver in desperate times, it''s definitely a timely assistance, the most suitable indeed."


    Jarrett narrowed his eyes. Even with sses on, they couldn''t conceal his roguish charm.


    "Since you''ve put it that way, I''d be rude to refuse. But can I ask you a question?"


    "Sure."


    Jarrett exhaled a puff of smoke, his expression unreadable behind his sses.


    "You said Kallum is different. In what way is he different?"


    If one were to disregard wealth, just based on appearance and age, he believed he was no less than Kallum. Why then, was Kallum considered different? Even if he had lost, he deserved an exnation. Calista was momentarily taken aback. He said nonchntly, "Perhaps it''s because... he was the first person I fell in love with." He was also thest person she loved.


    "Then I loved him for over a decade."


    In truth, it should be over twenty years.


    "Loving someone can be a habit, and loving him used up all the courage I had. So, apart from him, I simply can''t, nor do I have the emotional strength to ept anyone else."


    Calista noticed the smile on Jarrett''s face gradually fade, which ironically made her smile instead. "Weren''t you a non-smoker before? Why the sudden change?"


    "Me?" Jarrett nced at the cigarette in his hand. "Probably all for a troublesome individual, I guess..."


    Calista didn''t overthink it. She was solely focused on whether her n would go smoothly or not.


    Perhaps that was what it meant to be audacious. As long as it was what she wanted to do, she wouldn''t consider the difficulty and would tirelessly strive in that direction.


    She had dered that she would live her life recklessly and had long since discarded fear and trepidation along with her cowardice.


    Perhaps she was a little mentally


    unwell. It was said that those with mental illnesses oftencked fear and empathy. She found herself increasingly unable toprehend others pain and was less and less concerned with consequences or fear. But it did not matter, as she would never harm an innocent person.


    She shared her rough and straightforward n with Jarrett, whose eyes widened after he finished listening. It wasn''t until the cigarette in his hand burned down to his fingers that he snapped back to reality.


    "Are you for real?"


    Jarrett hadn''t expected that Calista would even share such matters with him. The items that Uriah had left behind were no small fortune.


    "Never suspect the person you use, and never use the person you suspect. You''ve received what you deserved, and I''ve received mine. Why, are you interested in those things?" Despite his usual scheming, Jarrett would never dare to touch her belongings. He immediately shook his head. "No. I just didn''t expect you to trust me this much."


    He steadied himself, then said with conviction, "As long as what you''re saying is true, I''m in. I''ve brought thirty people with me. It should be more than enough." Calista raised an eyebrow slightly, a mischievous smile ying on her lips. "I''m looking forward to seeing Sterling''s reaction when he sees me." Meanwhile, a single phone call sent Sterling''s spirits plunging to an all-time low.


    "Dad, I''ve got this under control. It''s just money. I''ll soon get arge sum of it."


    On the other end of the phone, Harvey scoffed, "Arge sum? You think it''s just going to fall from the sky? Our tast deal with Uriah has already been exposed, and you''ve offended Kallum. I''m amazed at your audacity to anger the head of the Fairchild family with just one trip to Horington. I''m starting to question whether you''re fit to be the heir of the Wolford family."

 Chapter 195 The Wildcard

    Sterling''s eyes narrowed. "I offended Kallum because of Calista. If it weren''t for Quincy and Yelena''s foolish actions, I wouldn''t have upset her, let alone get on Kallum''s wrong side."


    The underlying message was that all the trouble was caused by Harvey''s woman and good-for-nothing daughter.


    Harvey paused briefly, and eventually, his irritation became evident. "If I don''t see the money by this week, you can forget about being the general manager."


    After speaking, he abruptly ended the call.


    Sterling was so infuriated that he smashed his phone. He stood up, forcing himself to remain calm.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    On the ne, as he watched thend below drawing ever closer, he finally felt a sense of relief.


    "Kallum, Calista, you both just wait. And that old geezer, refusing to make me his heir, serves him right for not having a son his entire life."


    Sterling had already made up his mind. As soon as he got the money, he nned to give half of it to that person. He was sure he could dodge a bullet this way. The remaining money would be used to fill the ever-growing void, and the crisis would bepletely resolved. As long as he got that sum of money, all problems would cease to exist.


    At that moment, he received a message.


    "You''re saying Calista is also in Jeahron? What about Kallum?"


    The assistant, having witnessed Sterling smash his phone, shrank back a little. "Kallum isn''t here, but Calista is. She came here with a special support medical team because of the K Virus outbreak that happened a while ago. They''re probably here for research, aiming to gain some fame."


    This is the worst possible timing. They must be doing this on purpose. But it can''t be. After making several inquiries, I only recently received reliable news confirming that the ce Uriah mentioned is indeed in Corleon. There is no way Calista could have known about it before I did.


    It must be a coincidence...


    After much thought, Sterling sneered, "Well, it''s good that she''s here. Considering they ventured into such a dangerous area, it wouldn''t be surprising if they contracted the virus and died. The K Virus? It''s quite a fitting way to die." Calista was oblivious to the malice Sterling harbored toward her once again. At that moment, she was busy assisting the experts in administering medicine here, observing the reactions.


    After consuming the oatmealced with medicine, these patients appeared to be much more spirited. However, due to their pain, they spent most of their time groaning. When they were all together, the sound was quite disturbing and agitating.


    At that moment, the rumbling sound of cars echoed. A group of people were about to enter the city. However, they were all incredibly arrogant, quite unlike the people who hade and gone before.


    Vehicles couldn''t traverse this area; they could only enter. In other words, these people had specifically journeyed here from the outside.


    When the group of people passed by, one of them suddenly took notice of Calista and walked toward her.


    "Wow. There''s an incredibly attractive girl from Chanaea here."


    As soon as he said that, the dozen


    or so people apanying him quickly gathered around. The patients, startled by themotion, were left unattended as their rtives had gone out to find food. There was no one avable to escort them away. Only a few experts and soldiers were present.


    "Stop. Don''te any closer." Five soldiers pointed their guns at them, but they showed no signs of fear.


    "Don''t be so hostile. We just want to chat with the beautifuldy..." Despite the guns pointed at them, they continued to approach.


    Upon realizing that they were no easy targets, the soldiers hastily alerted theirmander. The gun in their hands served as their final warning.


    "If youe any closer, we''re going to shoot."


    The leader of the group, a burly man, also drew his gun. "Shoot us, then. Heh, you''re surrounded by a bunch of K Virus devils. Do you think it would be fun if their blood sttered on you?"


    Calista''s eyes narrowed slightly as she took in the scene. These people had dared to provoke them while the soldiers were off tending to the research station. They were all brawny and tough-looking, making it clear that the five soldiers would be no match for them on the surface.


    There was no way it wasn''t premeditated. They were sent over by Sterling.


    She shed a sweet smile.


    "It sounds quite fun, but we have an old saying in Chanaea. I''m not sure if you''ve heard of it."


    The burly man, who was leading the group, shed a grin, revealing his white teeth. "What is it? Let''s hear it."


    "The saying goes, don''t pursue a narrow gain while neglecting a greater danger." Jarrett''s voice suddenly echoed from behind them. As they turned around, they found themselves at the business end of thirty guns.


    The aggressor''s face changed


    instantly. He rushed toward Calista, wanting to use her as a hostage. However, Calista had been prepared since the moment Jarrett spoke. As the man attempted to strangle her, she was one step ahead, inserting a needle into his neck. Although it only paralyzed him for a few seconds, it was enough time for a well-trained mercenary to fall into her hands.


    "I think we can have a proper conversation now. What do you say?"


    With each word Calista uttered, she tapped his temple with a gun, her smile never wavering from start to finish.


    The assassins sent by Sterling never anticipated that their boss would be instantly taken down by a woman who, at first nce, seemed incapable of even hurting a fly.


    The man that Calista held at gunpoint couldn''t help but bend his knees. He was taller than Calista, but at that moment, she had him in a chokehold, which was truly humiliating for him.


    "What do you want?" The burly man


    was named Cahan. He had


    carefully chosen his moment to arrive, making sure that both


    Calista''s people and the army were not around. However, they were unaware of the wildcard that was Jarrett. He had been parachuted in directly under special orders. The ne was able tond but couldn''t depart. It was still parked on the mountain.

 Chapter 196 A Trap

    "What do I want? It''s simple. I just want to ask you a few questions." Calistaughed in his ear. "What''s the purpose of Sterling sending you here? To kill me?"


    The situation was pressing. Cahan took a moment to think before deciding to tell the harsh truth. "He wishes for you to contract the K Virus and die here." He had thought that this would be a simple task. A fierce glint shed in Calista''s eyes. "What a fitting end. On this, we truly see eye to eye."


    Eye to eye? Is this woman trying to make Sterling sick too?


    Upon thinking of Jarrett''s sudden appearance, Cahan realized that Sterling was likely to fail this time because Calista was clearly prepared and deliberately waiting for him.


    "All you''re after is money, isn''t it? How much did Sterling pay you for my life?"


    Cahan swallowed nervously. "A hundred million."


    Calista raised her eyebrows slightly. "It seems I''m quite valuable." She chuckled. "I''ve made a fortune recently. How about I give you a hundred million for a little white lie?" The rest of the mercenaries exchanged nces, unable to believe what they had just heard.


    They had thought that spending a hundred million to harm a woman was already an exorbitant price. Yet, she was even more outrageous, offering them a hundred million to lie.


    Calista released Cahan, yet Jarrett''s gun remained pointed at him. Cahan''s muscles were tense throughout his body, but due to the allure of Calista''s proposition, he didn''t make any rash moves.


    "Are you being serious?" People like them, who lived on the edge, could do anything for money. As for the issue of credibility, if this woman in front of them seeded, Sterling would meet his end right here. So, what credibility crisis could there possibly be? Even if Sterling were to win, they would still gain two hundred million. They could simply move to another country and start their lives anew.


    "I don''t usually lie," Calista said with a lightugh. "What I need you to do is quite simple. Just apany me up the mountain, then tell Sterling that you followed me to a cave on the mountain. You were discovered and had no choice but to shoot me. As for what he asks you to do next, just go along with it."


    Cahan thought it sounded easy. From her words, it appeared as though she wanted him to lure Sterling into a trap she had meticulously prepared.


    After weighing the pros and cons in his mind, he exchanged a nce with hispanion, then extended his hand toward Calista.


    "All right, we''re taking this deal."


    "We''ll definitely work well together," Calista said, revealing a mysterious smile.


    The very next morning, Sterling received a phone call that filled him with both joy and shock.


    "She left with just two people and you followed her to a cave? What kind of cave is it?"Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Cahan found it odd that Sterling was so focused on the cave.


    He had thought that Calista had mentioned the cave merely to lure Sterling into a trap, but it seemed there was more to the situation than met the eye.


    Under Calista''s intense gaze, he said, "It''s a man-made cave. It''s quiterge. Do you need me to go in and check it out?"


    "No!" A murderous intent shed in Sterling''s eyes. "Where is Calista?"


    Cahan nced at Calista and said nonchntly, "Her people discovered me, so I took her out, along with the two others by her side. I have no idea where the rest went. The army, however, is waiting in Jeahrone."


    He paused for a moment before


    speaking again. "It seems there''s a


    signal jammer in this ce. Other than the satellite phone, I can''t use anything else to contact you. Otherwise, I could have taken a picture for you. Even though it''s not the cause of death you wanted, you can''t deduct mymission because of this."


    "All right, hold on. I''ll be right there to check things out. I''m in Corleon, and I''m not far from you."


    Sterling hastily instructed his


    assistant to set up the satellite


    phone coordinates. He then said to Cahan nervously, "Stay put, dont move. Send someone outside to meet me. As long as I can confirm the deceased is Calista, I''ll immediately transfer the remaining payment to you."


    "No way, once my people pick you up, you''ll have to pay the remaining bnce. We agreed on this, didn''t we? It''s just a woman. Do you really think I''d scam you?"


    Sterling agreed readily, "All right, make sure none of you make any rash moves. Calista has ten people by her side. If anyone else returns, don''t hesitate to eliminate them. I''ll take care of any additional costs."


    "Consider it settled, then," Cahan said, then ended the call. He wasn''t sure if it was just his imagination, but he felt that Sterling was in a hurry. The Sterling he remembered was always cautious. This was the first time he was so eager toe and inspect the results. Meanwhile, Sterling revealed a sinister smirk.


    "The remaining bnce? Get it from hell!"


    He furrowed his brows, taken aback that Calista had indeed gone after the treasure. It looks like she found it ahead of time. Her subordinates must be preparing to transport the supplies. Thankfully, she is now out of the picture.


    At that moment, Sterling did not consider whether this was a trap. After all, Calista had only taken ten people to Corleon, and Kallum did not go with them. He reckoned she certainly wouldn''t coborate with the local government if she wanted to monopolize the treasure Given the few people she had, they were no match for those he had sent out. There was no way she could possibly set him up.

 Chapter 197 Where Are My Men

    The situation was critical now because once the treasure was discovered, there was a risk of exposure. Not a single mercenary could be kept alive.


    Moreover, if Calista had died, the people she had sent out would have already spread the news. If someone got there before him, then the treasure could very well end up in someone else''s hands.


    He hastily instructed the pilot to turn the ne around. At the same time, he contacted the government of Corleon, applying for a passage permit. The thought of the mercenaries already at the entrance of the treasure made him wish he could be there the very next second.


    After hanging up the phone, Cahan asked Calista curiously, "Is there anything special about this cave?"


    Calista chuckled. "Of course. Levi, show him around."


    Levi quickly donned the hood of his protective suit. It was then that the group of mercenaries realized that beneath their regr clothes, they were all actually wearing full-body protective suits. In order to uncover the truth, Cahan also put on a protective suit and joined Levi, leaving only two groups outside in a standoff.


    Jarrett observed everything closely and said softly to Calista in Chanaean, "You really don''t let any potential ally slip away, do you?"


    Calista nced at the group of mercenaries and shed a grin. "I''m quite poor, so my money isn''t that easy to get."


    These mercenaries wanted money, so they had to first duke it out with Sterling.


    After Cahan had taken a look, he quickly stepped out. As soon as he emerged, the people around Calista immediately went over to him and thoroughly sanitized him from head to toe.


    It took Cahan a while before he dared to remove his mask. His face was filled with lingering fear. Seeing the bodies scattered on the ground and the terrifying crystallization of the K Virus, Cahan was fully convinced that Calista truly intended to let Sterling experience the taste of the K Virus.


    "Did you see it?" Calista''s smile, though beautiful under the dim light, sent a chill down Cahan''s spine.


    "I did," Cahan said, swiftly discarding his protective gear. "Regardless, for the sake of our partnership, I don''t like the idea of Sterling being alive."


    "Don''t worry. This is exactly what I want too."


    Cahan saw Calista smiling very naturally. Feeling uneasy, he went to tell to his buddies that they must be carefulter to keep their distance from that cave.


    They had assumed there must be something valuable involved, given Sterling''s interest. Yet, they never expected it to turn out to be the K Virus. The preferences of the wealthy were indeed peculiar.


    When Sterling arrived, guided by someone, he easily reached the entrance. He was anxious, but he made sure not to show it. Seeing the mercenaries at the door, he asked, "No one has passed through here in thest hour, right?"


    "No. I''ve been here all along." He obediently followed Cahan''s orders and added, "We''ve killed her. You can enter and see for yourself. What about the rest of the money?"


    Sterlingughed. "I''ll give it to you right now."


    After he finished speaking, his assistants from behind brought over tworge boxes. The moment the two mercenaries opened them and saw stacks of money, smiles spread across their faces.


    They hadn''t done much on this trip, yet they managed to earn a hefty sum of money. It was certainly worth it.


    As they were holding the box, two silent figures approached. Sensing danger, they barely had time to lift their heads before each was taken down by a single gunshot.


    With the silencer, the sound wasn''t loud. After two people were killed, a dozen more emerged from the woods. Now, Sterling was followed by over twenty bodyguards, each armed with a gun, silently infiltrating the area.


    "They''re here," Calista announced,


    her exceptional hearing alerting her


    before anyone else. She turned to Cahan I''ve already told you everything you need to know. Once you''ve finished your negotiations, you can leave. Everything that happens after is not your concern anymore."


    Cahan found it odd. "They''re here? But my people haven''t sent any news." But as soon as he looked up, Calista and the others had already led people inside.


    Cahan recalled what his subordinate had mentioned earlier that Sterling had only brought along five or six men. They were hardly a threat. Yet, they had learned from past experiences, so they held onto their guns tightly.


    Sure enough, it wasn''t long before they spotted Sterling and hispanions.


    "Wait. Where are my men?" Cahan suddenly became alert. The men he had sent out were surprisingly not with Sterling when he entered.


    Sterling, d in a sleek ck suit,


    exuded an ominous aura. He


    sneered, "Why would I hand over the


    money so easily when I haven''t seen Calista''s body yet? I''ve already detained your men. Once I see the body, I''ll return your men to you."


    Cahan felt suspicious when suddenly, someone beside him leaned in and said, "The heat signatures of Trey and Jim have stopped moving, and ording to the readings on the device, their heat signatures are fading." In other words, those two individuals had already passed away.


    "You killed my men? Why?" The moment Cahan uttered these words, the men behind him raised their guns. Suddenly, they realized that Sterling was trying to betray them.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Sterling hadn''t expected this group to be carrying such things. It looks like there''s no way to keep it hidden any longer. They should all die!

 Chapter 198 Is Calista Still Alive

    "Why? Because all of you here must die."


    Cahan saw that Sterling was indeed intent onmitting murder and silencing any potential witnesses. He didn''t even spare a nce at Calista''s lifeless body.


    Although he didn''t know the reason, he was extremely furious. Without hesitation, he fired his gun at Sterling.


    "You want to kill me? After you!"


    As the first gunshot echoed, a multitude of men in ck emerged suddenly from behind Sterling. Their caliber was evidently superior to that of the mercenaries, clearly revealing them to be the trump card in Sterling''s hand.


    The moment those individuals made their appearance, Cahan and hispanions realized they might very well meet their end here today, causing their counterattacks to escte into a wild frenzy.


    Upon hearing themotion, Jarrett rubbed his hands together in anticipation. "ording to the sensor readings, Sterling actually only brought twenty-three people with him. The current situation is in our favor. Shall we make our move?"


    Calista shook her head. "No, there''s no rush. Let''s move forward. Although we could counterattack now and win, the casualties would be substantial. The spot up ahead is a better location for an ambush." "Are you so sure that those mercenaries will cooperate?"


    "They''ll definitely cooperate. Cahan is no match for them. They''ll surely retreat toward us because they know we''re here. But whether they can pull it off is their problem."


    After a moment of contemtion, Jarrett said, "Aren''t you concerned that Cahan won''t be able to resist and end up revealing us? If that happens, we won''t be able to catch them off guard anymore."


    Calista analyzed, "Sterling will definitely not give Cahan a chance to speak in order to swiftly conclude matters. Having suffered an inexplicable fatal beating at the hands of their employer and lost tworades, they will risk everything to give Sterling a taste of their strength. All he needs to do is lure Sterling''s men here, and we can take advantage of theplex cave system to ambush them. Now, let''s begin the ambush."


    At Calista''smand, they all began to hide within the cave.


    Jarrett secretly admired Calista. She had anticipated the current situation that Sterling and the mercenaries would eventually sh.


    The group of mercenaries would have no choice but to fight for their lives. They would be forced to cooperate, luring Sterling deep into the cave and helping to deplete his firepower.


    In the end, when Sterling died, the mercenaries would have to be grateful to Calista for avenging theirrades. If the mercenaries also died, that would be ideal. They could save on the hiring fee. It was a situation where every person was used to their fullest potential. After setting up the ambush, Calista heard the gunfire growing closer. A small smile yed on her lips. "Get ready to outnk them. The moment the first shout rings out from Cahan, we strike."


    Jarrett nodded, then witnessed a group of people barging in. Sterling''s party had dwindled to just sixteen individuals, and the number of mercenaries had fallen to a mere seven or eight.


    Seeing that they had arrived at a tunnel filled with numerous caves, Cahan knew his chance hade.


    "Sterling, you b*stard! You''ve fallen into a trap."


    Sterling, who was shielded till the very end, was shocked. He turned around. No way! No word hase from my men guarding outside. No one has broken in...


    Unless... these mercenaries have teamed up with Calista?


    "Is Calista still alive?" There was a quiver in his voice.


    Upon hearing this, Cahan responded with a triumphantugh that echoed throughout the cave.


    His expression was fierce. "You''ll see her soon."


    Sterling forced himself to calm down. Since Calista was determined to monopolize the treasure, she certainly wouldn''t let others know about this batch of resources. She only had ten people with her, so he might stand a chance against her.


    ???


    What he didn''t expect was that she managed to win over the group of mercenaries in just one night. Indeed, these wealthy individuals who could pull strings were not to be trusted. He med himself for being too hasty this time, taking risks without setting up any defenses.


    At that moment, all of Calista''s subordinates sprang into action. However, Calista herself remained in the shadows. The sheer number of people that appeared took Sterling by surprise. He found himselfpletely surrounded.


    "How is this possible?" I have made


    sure earlier. Calista only has ten people under hermand. Did she risk exposing the treasure and seek help from others? Isn''t she afraid of beingThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    afraouble-crossed? Isn''t she


    afraid that the local government would find out and she wouldn''t get anything?


    Three factions were engaged in a fierce battle, the entire cave echoing with the relentless sound of gunfire. It was enough to make one''s skin crawl.


    The scent of blood grew thicker.


    Because Calista''s men focused on preventing Sterling from escaping, the majority of the firepower was concentrated behind him. Sterling found himself surrounded. For the first time, he felt the cold gripof death so close to him. Before today, he could never have imagined that a woman could push him to such a point.


    "Calista! What''s the point of hiding? Come out where I can see you!"


    Sterling''s voice was met with silence. Since he couldn''t break free, he had no choice but to proceed further. "We''re going in!"


    Left with no choice, the people under Sterling had to obey orders and charge in during the critical moment.


    Seeing Sterling rushing off to meet his doom, Cahan didn''t stop him. Jarrett''s people were also aware of the priority of minimizing damage. Anyway, they had sealed off all exits. Getting in was easy, but if Sterling wanted to get out, it would be a bit more challenging.

 Chapter 199 It Was Jarrett

    Without a moment to catch his breath, Cahan hurried back with the remaining four of hisrades, hoping to find survivors among the rest.


    Quickly, he let out a small sigh of relief. They were all wearing bulletproof vests, so unless they were shot in the head, their injuries were rtively minor. Indeed, he managed to find hisrades who were still alive.


    Even then, out of the fourteen people under Cahan''smand, only seven remained. The mortality rate of fifty percent was clear evidence of the brutality of his line of work. Having seen the hardships they had just gone through, Jarrett generously sent over their payment.


    Cahan''s men, supporting each other, left the area, leaving only Cahan behind. He was covered in blood, wearily looking at Jarrett and his, who were virtually unscathed.


    "Even though I felt somewhat used, I still need to express my gratitude to you. Please, you must eliminate that b*stard, Sterling. He''s responsible for the deaths of my sevenrades!"


    With a serious expression, Jarrett assured, "Don''t worry. This is thest you''ve seen of him."


    Cahan cast a deep gaze into the depths of the cave, then asked, "Can I know what''s really in there? If it''s just the K virus, then Sterling''s reaction doesn''t make sense."


    "If curiosity is what drives you, remember that it killed the cat. If you''re thinking of trading this information for money, well... the oue will only be tragic."


    Calista walked out with a smile, d in ck and her hair tied in a ponytail. She appeared formidable yet fragile, her delicate features making her look like a stunning statue. Yet, her gaze was akin to that of the Grim Reaper, carrying a subtle yet undeniable hint of murderous intent.


    "I understand now..." Cahan''s lips had turned a bit pale as he quickly walked out. From that day forward, he would never underestimate any girl who looked frail.


    Blood stains marred Calista''s face, though it was unclear when they had sttered there. Against her skin, as white and smooth as snow, they made for a gruesome sight.


    Originally, Jarrett wanted to reach out and wipe it off, but the aura surrounding Calista was incredibly hostile. Particrly in this dimly lit space, she resembled a glowing, bloodthirsty angel. Even her smile had a murderous edge.


    "What''s wrong?" Calista noticed his gaze and reached up to wipe her face. identally, her fingers smeared the blood on her cheek, creating a startling contrast. The vivid hue of blood made her face stunningly beautiful in that moment. Jarrett found his breath growing somewhat ragged. He reached for his cigarette case, only to realize he had left it behind.


    Calista nced at her hand and shed a smile. "Oh, it seems I''ve gotten some blood on me."


    Her luscious red lips and pristine white teeth slowly unveiled, almost causing Jarrett to flee in panic.


    "I''m going to check if Sterling is dead yet!"


    Calista watched his retreating figure, tilting her head slightly. She didn''t follow him. Instead, she sent a message to Derek: We can now gather all of the Fairchild family''s forces in Corleon. The item I want must be obtained without any mistakes.


    Given the significant mobilization of


    forces, all members of the Fairchild family in Corleon had to seek approval from Kallum. Upon


    receiving the news that Calista


    required so many people, Kallum''s


    first reaction was to worry if she had been injured.


    So, without a second thought, Kallum approved it and gave his instructions.


    "Lock in her position; we''re heading there too. Be quick about it!"


    Quintus promptly nodded. "Yes, Mr. Kallum."


    At that moment, he could never have imagined that it wasn''t Calista who was hurt but rather Sterling.


    Sterling''s face was ashen, a picture of utter despair. One misstep had led to a lifetime of regret. He never anticipated that a single moment of negligence wouldnd him in a predicament with no way out. "Boss, what do we do? Waylon is done for!"


    Before the man could finish his words, Waylon staggered a few steps before dying on the spot.


    The surroundings were eerily quiet, the only sound being the fearful breaths that felt suffocating.


    Their escape route was blocked, and aheady aboratory teeming with viruses. The first person who ventured in rushed out in less than a minute, only to start running a fever shortly after. Within minutes, they were dead.


    At this point, only Sterling and his four loyal subordinates were left alive.


    The unseen virus had traumatized them. Coupled with the fact that there were people guarding outside, they were subjected to both physical and mental torment. Each one of them was on edge, about to mentally break down at the slightest trigger. This time, Sterling brought along those he trusted the most. If they were to die, then his own demise wouldn''t be far off.


    At that moment, an insidious voice echoed.


    "How pitiful. Do you wish to live? Beg me, and I might consider showing you mercy."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Atst, Sterling recognized who it was. Gripped by hysteria, he cried out, "Jarrett, it''s you!"


    Or rather, it was just as expected. Obviously, only Jarrett would be bold enough to assist Calista. Not only were they close friends, but Jarrett would stand to gain the most with Sterling''s death.


    Jarrett no longer appeared as


    flustered as he had been in front of


    Calista. Donning his sses and dressed impably, he stood there in a rxed manner. If he had ss of wine in hand, he looked as if he could easily blend into any social gathering.


    Sterling forced himself to stay calm. Gritting his teeth, he said, "Jarrett,


    are you really going to help Calista kill me? Do you know what''s behind this cave? It''s the treasure left behind by Uriah, worth over ten billion! Uriah was from country L, but the treasure is in Corleon. To keep this a secret, who''s to say she won''t turn on you next after you kill me?"

 Chapter 200 No Way Out

    After considering Calista''s character, Jarrett thought that if the reasons werepelling enough, she might actually go through with it. Unfortunately, he knew all too well that Calista''s main objectives was to take Sterling''s life on top of the money. "That''s our business. You don''t need to concern yourself with it, Mr. Wolford," Jarrett said with a devious smile. "Perhaps, Mr. Wolford, you should focus on your current predicament. After all, your life is in my hands."


    Sterling''s thoughts raced. Suppressing all his resentment and bitterness, he managed to maintain hisposure and said, "What has Calista promised you? Take over all my assets? But what is mine won''t automatically be yours even if I die. Keeping me around and controlling me would be more beneficial for you!"


    Jarrett remained silent, seemingly deep in thought.


    Sterling''s face was anxious as he continued, "If you''re willing to let me go, I won''t take anything from this cave. I''ll even ensure you''re adequatelypensated!"


    He licked his lips, a fierce determination shing in his eyes. "Moreover, I can help you get whatever''s inside that cave. Rather than letting Calista or the Fairchild family reap the benefits, I''d prefer you to have it. Think about it, isn''t this more profitable than killing me?" "Your suggestion is truly enticing."


    Jarrett shook his head with a snigger. If he was coborating with anyone else but Calista, Kallum for example, he might have agreed.


    "Regrettably, I can''t agree to your proposal."


    Sterling''s expression darkened.


    With a sigh in his heart, Jarrett spoke in a low voice. "Hasn''t anyone told you about my rtionship with Calista?"


    With some difficulty, Sterling said, "She saved your younger brother."


    "It''s more than that. My brother has already recovered, and burning bridges is amon urrence for me, so this little favor doesn''t really count for much."


    "Then why on earth..." The vein on Sterling''s forehead throbbed as he was unable toprehend how Jarrett could possibly resist such a huge temptation.


    "Because " I like her.


    "Are you not done yet?"


    Calista''s voice interrupted Jarrett''s words, and the moment she appeared, Sterling''s eyes turned red.


    "Calista!"


    Upon hearing this, Calista turned toward him, smiling as she spoke. "Oh my, it''s been a while, hasn''t it, Mr. Wolford? If I recall correctly... We''ve only met a few times in Horington, right? It''s been a year. I hope life''s been treating you well, Mr. Wolford?"


    Just as Sterling was about to make


    a move, the man behind Jarrett


    raised his gun, aiming it at him. Although Sterling wasn''t hurt, his four remaining subordinates were all injured, making it impossible for them to fight back. This left him helpless, forced to stand by and idly watch the woman he despised act with impunity right in front of him.


    "What exactly do you want from me? We have no past grudges or conflicts..."


    "No conflicts? Are you sure?" Calista counted off on her fingers as she spoke to him. The first time we met, you almost strangled me. Plus, you helped the people I despise get


    away with their actions. Do you not


    know that if it weren''t for you, they would have been killed a long time ago? Later on, you had Uriah kidnap me. I nearly died back then. Even


    now, thinking about it scares me a bit..."


    Sterling simply couldn''t see any sign of fear in this woman. At that moment, he had no room to show any grace, His gaze was filled with a raw desire to tear her apart.


    "Didn''t you also cause me to waste billions on a worthless piece ofnd? You got caught but you''re not dead! Moreover, you''ve gotten Kallum to attack me at every turn. Do you have any idea how much I''ve lost over the past year?" What an intriguing argument. So, if one doesn''t die, it''s as if nothing happened?Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Calista chuckled lightly. "I understand, I know you''re eagerly waiting to use this money to fill the hole. Who knows, this could even be your life-saving fund."


    She wore a somewhat smug smile


    as she said, ''But what does this


    have to do with me? You hired someone to kill me, so it''s only fair that I take your life in return, isn''t it?


    It''s just business. Don''t tell mole


    only you are allowed to profit without any risk?"


    But I''m losing more than just money. It''s my life at stake here!


    Suddenly, the traumatized Sterling took a step back. He subtly signaled to his men beside him. If they could capture Calista, they still had a chance.


    "I would advise you all not to act recklessly."


    Calista addressed the people around him, "Do you really think Sterling is worth risking your lives for? If you drop your weapons ande over here, I''ll spare you. I''m only giving you one chance."


    Only then did Sterling truly panic. He stared at the people around him, his body slightly trembling. "Don''t forget... don''t forget who brought you to where you are! And your families; if I die, your families are done for too!"


    "He''s destined to die regardless of whether you surrender or resist. But if you choose the former, I might be in the mood to spare your families. However, if you opt for thetter, then prepare for your entire families to join Sterling in the afterlife!" The words of Calista caused the newfound determination of those four individuals to vanish in an instant.


    "Boss..." A person by Sterling''s side took a few steps back. "I don''t want to die yet..."


    After he finished speaking, he tossed the gun aside,pletely disregarding the furious look in Sterling''s eyes.


    Once someone took the lead, it was easier to follow. Anyone could understand such a simple concept.


    "Guys..."


    Sterling found himself gasping for breath, cornered with nowhere left to run. He watched helplessly as his situation grew increasingly dire, yet he was helpless to do anything. The feeling was even more brutal than murder itself!


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 201 The Flashback

    In the end, all four individuals discarded their guns and gradually moved behind Jarrett. Only Sterling was left. Just like a beast cornered at the edge of a cliff, he had no other fate but death. "Calista! Jarrett! Do you really intend to do this? If I die, my father will never forgive you!"


    Upon seeing him retreating continuously, Calista spoke sympathetically. "Tsk tsk, I can''t believe I''m actually feeling a bit sorry for you. Compassion is a terrifying thing."


    After Calista finished herment, she made a slight gesture with her finger. Immediately, two people from behind her stepped forward. They snatched the gun from Sterling''s hand and pinned him to the ground.


    Thest time the esteemed heir of the Wolford family came into close contact with the ground was probably during his childhood days in the orphanage, let alone kneeling on the ground.


    Calista turned to Jarrett, who stood by the side, and said, "I''ve handed him over to you. The ones he brought with him are his trusted aides. These people are privy to all his secrets, his business dealings, and can even represent him. With these individuals present, Sterling is of no use to you anymore. You might as well leave first."


    Jarrett shook his head, saying, "No, I want to see how you''re going to deal with him."


    "What else can it be?" Calista brandished a gun. "Obviously, killing him is the best choice."


    Jarrett nced at her in surprise.


    "What? Did you think I was nning to humiliate him first? Though it seems like it could be fun, I''m not interested. It''s simpler to just kill him."


    Calista spoke as she slowly walked toward Sterling, loosely gripping the gun in her hand. For the first time, a look of fear finally emerged in Sterling''s eyes.


    "Calista..." His voice was hoarse, no longer the haughty tone he''d taken when they first met when he''d looked down on her as if she were a mere insect. Now, he was the one in the insect''s position.


    He was filled with regret. Things would have turned out differently had he not underestimated her, merely sending a band of mercenaries to kill her.


    If it weren''t for his impatience, the suffocating pressure of his financial situation, and his fear of losing his treasure, he wouldn''t have ventured so recklessly into danger. Given another chance, he would never have ended up in such a predicament.


    "I beg you..." He finally lowered himself. "I promise I won''ty a finger on you again, so please don''t kill me! I''ll give you whatever you want. Do you want money? Or power? Just don''t kill me, please!"


    His demeanor was incredibly humble, but Calista remained unmoved.


    "Do you know? I once pleaded with you in the same way."


    In my past life, I ultimately couldn''t escape the relentless hunt and was captured. I believed that death was my only fate. When Quincy was adamant in killing me, what was it that Sterling said back then?


    "Kill her? She''s caused us so much trouble and loss. To simply let her die would be letting her off too easy."


    Sterling stared at her, a cold smirk ying on his lips. "Coincidentally, that man''s son got himself infected with the virus due to his reckless behavior. There aren''t any cases like this back home. If she were to get an injection, wouldn''t she make the perfect human test subject?"


    Upon hearing this, Quincy immediately became excited. "The K virus? Sure, that sounds great! If we release her and allow her to infecta few more people, we''ll have more subjects for our experiment, won''t we? Even if she doesn''t infect anyone else, she won''t survive more than a month, which is rather


    interesting when you think about it."


    Sterling scornfully nced at Quincy, then had someone bring over a blue syringe. The K virus serum was dangerous, yet he casually toyed with it in his hand. He was deliberately taking his time, just to savor the struggle on Calista''s face, aiming to break her down mentally.


    "I''ve heard that after contracting the


    K virus, one would suffer daily. It feels as if your bones and flesh are being ground up and slowly pieced back together... Ms. Stafford, you have a strong will to live, so you probably won''t die that easily, right? That would no longer make it fun."


    Calista sat on the ground, her hand alternately rxing and clenching. She bit her lip so hard that she drew blood.


    Her body was covered in wounds, and as the syringe drew nearer, a wave of immense panic washed over her. Ultimately, she could no longer maintain her defiance. She lowered her head, pleading earnestly.


    "I beg you..."


    Calista bowed her head to grasp Sterling''s trousers, her fingers thin and pale, as if they would snap with a single squeeze. "I can still be of use... I''m much more useful than Quincy. Spare me, as I can create more profit for you... Don''t kill me! I beg... I beg you!" One by one, her tears fell silently onto the carpet. In thevish room, her pleas were uttered with immense difficulty.


    She didn''t want to die and was even willing to beg for mercy from her enemy.


    "Hahaha! Did you hear that, Sterling? She''s begging you!" Quincy mimicked Calista''s tone, saying in a sobbing tone, "Please...don''t kill me. I''ll work like a ve to repay you..."


    After she finished speaking, her expression turned vicious. With a cold, mockingugh, she kicked Calista over with one foot.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "Begging now, are you? Weren''t you proud and defiant before? Weren''t you capable of taking on the world? I dare you to flee again, and cause more trouble, you b*tch!"


    Sterling watched with amusement as Quincy vented her frustrations. It wasn''t until Calista curled up pathetically from the sharp kicks of Quincy''s high heels that he finally decided to speak up, pretending to be merciful.


    "Alright, stop messing around. If she dies, we''ll lose our test subject."


    As he spoke, he moved closer step-by-step with the gleaming syringe, disregarding Calista''s recoil into the corner.


    In a pitiful tone, he said, "Seeing you like this, I actually feel a bit sorry for you. Compassion is a terrifying thing..."

 Chapter 202 Back To The Present

    "No!"


    In the midst of Calista''s piercing scream, the needle was ruthlessly jabbed into her shoulder. She was unable to resist, left only to watch as the serum gradually disappeared, her consciousness sinking into despair. "Don''t you enjoy running away?"


    Sterling took a step back with a smile, his voice far away.


    "You are free now."


    Sterling red at Calista. "When have you ever begged me on your knees?"


    Calista''s smile remained unchanged. "It must have been a dream, I guess."


    She extended her hand, her gun aiming at Sterling''s head. "Anyway, the sight of you just makes me feel ufortable. So, you might as well just die."


    In the final moment, Sterling could no longer deceive himself- Calista was truly capable of killing him.


    "Wait! Don''t you want to know the secret between Yelena and Quincy? Don''t you want to know why I initially helped them to destroy you?"


    The infuriating names that popped up only served to fuel Calista''s anger further.


    Calista''s eyes sparkled like zing fires, and when she broke into a smile, it was startlingly captivating.


    "I don''t want to know. I just want you dead right now!"


    The moment she pulled the trigger, a voice suddenly cried out. "Mr. Jarrett, run!"


    At that moment, Calista suddenly realized something and swiftly rushed toward Jarrett.


    Suddenly, a thunderous boom echoed. The entire cave began to quiver-an explosion had urred!


    Among the four individuals who had previously surrendered, one was surprisingly a die-hard follower of Sterling''s.


    Upon seeing Calista determined to kill Sterling and there was no turning back, he had ignited the explosives on his own body.


    At the critical moment, Calista was the first to notice. She moved as fast as she could. Just as the person was about to embrace Jarrett in a suicide attack, she fiercely kicked him away. Holding Jarrett, they fell and rolled toward a nearby cave. Amidst the loud noise, someone had died, and some were injured.


    Due to his distance from the epicenter, Sterling was unaffected by the chaos. Amidst the earth-shaking turmoil, he saw the person who had grabbed him was still intent on killing him. Using all his strength, he broke free and made a dash for theboratory behind him. The person wanted to give chase, but another held him back.


    "Don''t go. He''s infected with the virus, and it''s a death sentence. Don''t follow him to his doom!"


    "But there''s a fork in the road over there, perhaps there''s a way out. What if he''s infected and spreads the disease to others upon his escape?"


    "Either way, Jeahron is already in lockdown. There is no way he can escape!"


    Amidst the chaos, someone cried out, "Quick, we need help! Mr. Jarrett and Ms. Calista are trapped in the cave!"


    Jarrett coughed a few times. When he felt the warmth of blood sttering onto his body, he quickly realized it wasn''t his own. Instead, it was...


    "Calista?"


    He reached out and felt a damp warmth with his hand. He tried to sit up but was pinned down tightly. Calista had shielded him from most of the falling rocks. As a result, she was injured. "Why..." Jarrett was somewhat dumbfounded, he had never imagined that the one to rescue him in the end would be Calista.


    "Don''t... move!"


    Calista struggled to utter a few words. At that moment, theirbined space was less than a cubic meter. It was a good thing they were both thin. Otherwise, they wouldn''t even have room to breathe. Jarrett was filled with turmoil. "You... d*mn it! Why did you have toe and save me?"


    Calista found his reaction strange. When the man from earlier tried tomit a suicide attack, he had tried to take Jarrett down with him. If it hadn''t been for her intervention, Jarrett would have been killed in the


    explosion. Therefore, she don''t


    understand why he was ming her for saving him.


    "Do you... wish to die?"


    Outside, a group of people wereboriously moving stones, unsure of when they would finish. Suddenly, a group of people burst in, causing


    everyone


    to be alert.


    §Õ§ï§Ý§Ú


    Nevertheless, Levi''s voice was heard calling out, "Quintus?"


    After he finished speaking, he gasped in surprise. "Could it be that Mr. Kallum has arrived?"


    Now, everything ispletely ruined!


    Originally, Kallum had no intentions of entering, but upon hearing the sound of an explosion, an inexplicable anxiety overcame him. Ignoring all attempts to stop him, he barged in without reservations.


    The crowd parted, and Kallum, dressed in all ck, strode forward. The gruesome scene inside the cave caused a solemn aura to envelop him. The intensity of his burning gaze was enough to sear anyone he looked at. "Where''s is she?"


    Kallum hadn''t seen Calista, and he already had a sinking feeling in his heart.


    At that moment, Levi''s trembling finger pointed toward the shut-in cave as she stuttered in fear for the very first time.


    "She... she''s inside."


    Calista could feel that her injuries were severe. In such a ce, there was no way to administer acupuncture, so she could only wait for someone toe to her rescue.


    And so, shey weakly on Jarrett, readying to close her eyes to rest.


    However, Jarrett was in a panic. If she fell asleep with such severe injuries, there was a high chance she wouldn''t wake up again.


    "Calista, how are you doing? Don''t fall asleep on me now!"


    Calista felt as if she was about to cough up blood when he gently shook her. The sound of Jarrett''s voice ringing in her ears made her head start to throb with pain. "Don''t speak... It''s noisy!"


    Upon seeing that Calista was still able to endure the pain, Jarrett managed to steady his emotions. However, his expression quickly becameplicated again. "Why... why did you save me?"


    This was something he just couldn''t wrap his head around. In his eyes, Calista was not the kind of person who would go out of her way to help others. Why on earth did she risk herself to save me? This isn''t like her at all!


    Calista merely bummed in response,This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    not uttering a single word. After all, it was she who had brought Jarrett over, and his assistance had been invaluable. She would never allow him to get hurt or die there-it was a matter of principle.

 Chapter 203 Give Someone Else A Chance

    At that moment, the satellite phone Calista was carrying rang.


    "My hand is stuck. Can you help me get it out?" Calista requested, assuming it was a call from those outside.


    "Where is it?"


    "Below the waist."


    At that moment, Jarrett''s emotions wereplex. In the darkness, his sight failed him, intensifying his other senses. This was his first time being this close to a woman he was fond of. Yet, he knew he could never voice his feelings. It was already pitiful enough to harbor affection for a woman whose heart did not belong to him. To confess would be nothing short of humiliating himself.


    So, he steadied his mind, reaching down. Since his hand was obstructed by the stone next to him, he had no choice but to slide his hand downward, following the contour of their bodies pressed together.


    Luckily, he managed to find Calista''s phone without much trouble. However, retrieving it was a bit of a struggle due to itsrge size.


    "It seems to be stuck."


    Calista shifted slightly, and as she did, she identally pressed down on Jarrett''s hand, which instantly hit the answer button.


    "Try moving again, will you?" Calista''s voice clearly echoed from Levi''s phone. Levi nced at Kallum, seemingly gripped by panic. "It''s stuck. It''s too tight."


    Struggling for breath, Jarrett''s breathless words resonated to those outside, sounding nothing short of a suggestive scene.


    Good heavens! What are the two of them doing inside? Where are they stuck at? What is it that''s stuck?


    Due to Jarrett''s reckless movements, he touched Calista''s wound by ident, causing her to draw a sharp breath.


    "Stop moving, it hurts," she said.


    "Just bear with it. It''ll be over soon." Jarrett''s voice was slightly hoarse. His hand inadvertently brushed against ces it shouldn''t, and he was not someone without emotions. She was the woman he loved, and it was impossible for him not to be aroused. Kallum''s face turned green in jealousy. He couldn''t take it anymore, and in a swift move, he snatched Levi''s mobile phone out of his hands.


    "What are you guys doing?"


    The two halted their actions. Calista turned to Jarrett and asked, "Did you press the answer button by ident?"


    Upon hearing Kallum''s voice, Jarrett immediately felt irritated. "I don''t know!"


    Meanwhile, it seemed as if Kallum''s fury could burn through the phone itself.


    "Darn it! Jarrett, I dare you toy a finger on her!"


    Although he was quite certain that nothing would happen in such a situation, the mere thought of Jarrett touching any part of Calista''s body was something that Kallum found utterly uneptable.


    Upon hearing this, Jarrett lost his temper. Suddenly, with a swift motion, he pulled out the satellite phone. With a mischievous grin, he said, "La a finger on her? No, she''s entirely in my arms right now. You better be cautious when you''re moving the rocks because she selflessly threw herself on top of me to save me. If you''re careless, I''ll be fine, but I can''t say the same for her."


    After he finished speaking, he abruptly ended the call. Despite being separated by stone, one could feel his anger seemingly burning through it. Calista rolled her eyes. "You''re so childish."


    With a huff, Jarrett found himself


    elet


    with a rare moment alone with Calista. Yet, here was Kallum, intruding on their private moment Wasn''t it said that Kallum had disappeared from public for almost


    a year? Why can''t he just stay put at home?


    Calista didn''t overthink it. She gently touched the wound on her back, drawing in a soft breath.


    "Are you alright?" Jarrett''s attention was instantly drawn back. If Calista could see him, she would know just how much Jarrett cared for her.


    She grumbled, "If you weren''t so stiff all over, I would be okay."


    She then shifted out of difort. "Your satellite phone is digging into me."


    Upon hearing those words, Jarrett''s body tensed up even more. My... My phone is in my hand; what she is feeling isn''t the phone...


    Feeling restless and anxious, he held her in his arms. He knew he shouldn''t, yet Jarrett hoped that they wouldn''t be rescued so soon.


    Upon hearing noises from outside,


    they knew it was likely Kallum''s men bringing in equipment to get them out. The rescuers'' movements were much more cautious than before, presumably because they knew that Calista was trapped and didn''t dare to act recklessly.


    The pair were buried rather deeply. If it wasn''t for arge stone that had fallen, creating a triangr space, they would have been killed either by the bomb st or crushed to death by the rocks. "Calista, if you were to die here, would you regreting to save me?"


    In the darkness, Jarrett suddenly held her close and asked a question. His voice wasced with an anticipation he himself didn''t fully understand.


    Calista found his question rather peculiar. "You''re not going to die... and neither will I."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    "What if, though?"


    "There is no ''what if"."


    "Do you realize?" Jarrett suddenly smirked. "The way you''re acting could easily lead to misunderstandings. People might think you''ve fallen in love with me, to the point where you''re willing to risk your life to save me." Calista chuckled lightly, but the pain from her wound red up with the action, causing her to furrow her brows.


    "Fancy you? I''d rather fancy your younger brother, at least he appears far more charming than you."


    Upon detecting the faint scent of blood mingled with a chilling fragrance on her, Jarrett inhaled deeply, his eyes narrowing as if he were intoxicated by it.


    "Liking me won''t get you pregnant. I''ve said it before, try stepping away from Kallum, and give someone else a chance. You might be pleasantly surprised." "For instance, you?"


    "For instance, me."

 Chapter 204 We Have Found Them

    At that moment, Kallum was on the brink of losing his mind. If it weren''t for his physical limitations, he would have taken matters into his own hands. Luckily, they had useful equipment on their ne. Otherwise, if they had to move the stones one by one, Kallum would have definitely gone mad. During the rescue, Levi, his forehead slick with sweat, reported on thetest situation.


    At that time, the individual intended to take Jarrett, who was nearest to him, down with him. Had it not been for Calista''s timely reaction, Jarrett would have undoubtedly perished in the explosion.


    Kallum''s lips were tightly pursed. His deep gaze stared at Levi in a hostile manner.


    "What were you doing at that time? All ten of you couldn''t even react as quickly as a single woman?"


    The ten Parker Guards, who had apanied Calista, all knelt down on one knee, feeling that they had failed.


    At that time, the cave was bustling with activity. Those who were injured were being cared for by the medical staff brought by Kallum, while the deceased had been removed. Fearing that the recent explosion might cause a secondary cave copse, Kallum''s team had even reinforced the supports.


    The people under Jarrett''smand were helping to move the stones, so these ten individuals had no choice but to follow orders.


    Kallum, however, didn''t have time to lecture them.


    "All of you will be demoted when we get back. The Fairchild family has no need for trash!" Demoted?


    Upon hearing this, the ten individuals present were all taken aback. The Fairchild family''s guards were divided into three ranks. Excluding the ordinary hired help, there were three major groups with differentst names who had been nurtured by the family over the generations-Gauche Guards, Destra Guards, Parker Guards, and Ludlow Guards. If they were demoted to the Ludlow Guards, all their years of hard work would be in vain, leaving them no ce to showcase their martial skills.


    Levi Parker... Or rather Levi Ludlow, despite his disappointment, still had to say what needed to be said.


    "Mr. Kallum... Ms. Calista''s belongings are still inside. Just now, Sterling had rushed in and must have contracted the virus because he will definitely pass theb. Ms. Calista is hell-bent on killing him, so what are your ns?"


    When Kallum let out a cold huff, Gunner stepped forward with his men, saying, "Mr. Kallum, I''m on it."


    When they arrived, they quickly learned of the situation there and had put on protective gear beneath their clothes.


    Kallum turned to Ryder and said, "Gunner will capture him, while you lead a team to search for any other exits that might be useful for transporting supplies. If there aren''t any, find a suitable location to create one. We can st an exit if necessary."


    As Kallum had brought his entire team from Corleon, he had enough manpower to handle the situation. After giving out all the necessary orders, he intently watched the cave-in before him, a growing sense of urgency slowly filling his eyes.


    D*mn it, Calista, I won''t allow anything to happen to you!


    At that moment, due to Kallum''s decisive actions, the government of Corleon was immediately informed. They sent representatives to get in contact but couldn''t figure out their intentions. Nevertheless, given the significant influence of the Fairchild family, they could only keep a close watch, not daring to offend them.


    As time gradually passed, Jarrett finally caught a glimpse of light.


    "We''ve found them!"


    Upon hearing the shout, Kallum


    hurried forward. Seeing arge rock


    that had shielded them, he deduced they should be unharmed underneath it. A sigh of relief escaped him. He decided to wait for Calista to emerge before giving her a piece of his mind. N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Upon seeing their imminent rescue, Jarrett felt a sense of relief. Yet, a wave of mncholy washed over him. After all, this was the only time in his life he had been intimately close to the woman he cherished.


    "Get yourself together. We''re about to leave."


    Jarrett spoke softly to Calista, but Calista did not respond to him.


    "Calista?"


    She still didn''t respond. At this point, Jarrett panicked, yelling out, "Kallum, hurry up! Calista has lost too much blood. She''s unconscious!"


    His voice came through clearly, startling Kallum. "How is she?"


    At that moment, Jarrett didn''t have the luxury of time to think. "Her back is injured. I don''t know the specifics!"


    "D*mn it!"


    Kallum turned to Quintus and said, "Bring the stretcher over, quickly!"


    As he couldn''t see his beloved who was still trapped under the stone b, frustration consumed Kallum, so much so that he wished he could drag Jarrett out and give thetter a good beating. "I can see them!"


    Kallum quickly said, "Be gentle! Don''t hurt her!"


    The massive stone was gradually pried open, revealing the Calista''s blood-stained back. Kallum drew a sharp breath, his gaze burning with murderous intent.


    Jarrett was already feeling somewhat numb from the pressure when suddenly, a light appeared before his eyes. Before he could react, the person in his arms was carefully lifted away by Kallum. Although Jarrett was saved, watching the retreating figure of Kallum after he snatched his beloved away felt as if a piece of his heart had been carved out.


    Her scent still lingered on him, but she was already gone.


    "Mr. Jarrett, are you alright?" One of Jarrett''s subordinates eximed with relief before rushing over to assist him.


    Jarrett nodded. "Do you have a smoke?"


    His subordinate was stunned. He didn''t smoke much back home, so why has this habit intensified since he arrived in Corleon?


    However, he didn''t overthink it and promptly lit a cigarette for Jarrett.


    Since Jarrett wasn''t really injured, he simply sat on the pile of stone and smoked.


    One of his subordinates reported, "Mr. Jarrett, the remaining three individuals from Sterling''s side have been sessfully restrained. We''ve also conducted a body check and found no issues. How would you like us to proceed?"

 Chapter 205 An Incompatible Pair

    "Let''s deal with it when we get back," Jarrett suggested, removing his shattered sses in a somewhatckluster mood.


    His subordinate lowered his voice as he said, "This time, even if Sterling doesn''t die, he''ll contract the K virus. He''s no longer a threat to us. After we return this time, we''ll be able to act freely..."N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    He paused for a moment before continuing, "However, the drama caused by the Fairchild family today is too much. Since we''ve already obtained what we wanted, we should perhaps leave first. The local authorities are already watching this ce." After a long hesitation, Jarrett finally let out a bitter, self-deprecating smile.


    "Alright, let''s go first. As for this mess, let''s let Kallum clean it up!"


    After all, his presence was only an eyesore to Kallum. It was better for him to be out of sight, out of mind.


    When Calista regained consciousness, several days had already passed. Outside the window, the zing sun was gradually setting. Judging by the architecture, she realized she was still in Jeahron. "Are you awake?"


    Kallum''s voice carried a hint of joy initially. However, the moment she looked over, it swiftly turned to annoyance.


    "It''s good that you''re awake. I need to ask you, why didn''t you call me? Why didn''t you let me know what you were nning to do? Why would you undertake such a dangerous task all by yourself?"


    As he unleashed a barrage of questions, Calista clutched the nket, looking at him in a somewhat dazed manner. Her luminous eyes looked as if they were sprinkled with crushed diamonds, and at that moment, without her lethal aura, she appeared innocent and beautiful. The sight of her then was capable of melting anyone''s heart.


    The volume of Kallum''s voice inexplicably lowered.


    "Are you feeling unwell?"


    He furrowed his brows, sitting at the edge of the bed to touch her forehead. "Does your head hurt? Right, I''ll get you some water."


    He quickly poured a ss of water for Calista, who obediently drank it all. She didn''t seem to show any signs of difort. Watching her, Kallum let out a small sigh of relief. Then, he put on a fierce facade, raising his voice again.


    "Alright, stop ying dumb now. It''s time toe clean with me. Honesty will make things easier for you!"


    Calista shifted slightly, only to notice her body was swathed in bandages. She couldn''t help but furrow her brows. Seeing her difort, Kallum anxiously leaned in to inspect her. "Hold on, don''t move about recklessly. Did you pull at your wound?"


    Upon seeing his flustered state, Calista couldn''t help but let out a soft chuckle. In a low voice, she asked, "You''re really anxious about my well-being, huh? Are you no longer angry?"


    "I''m not anxious!" Kallum''s eyebrows knotted tightly, his handsome face tense. He scoffed, "I''m not worried about you, you d*mn woman. I''m just concerned that if you die, there will be no one to keep me alive. I certainly don''t want to die."


    Faced with Calista''s ambiguous gaze, his exnation wasn''t convincing at all. In the end, he stared at her with wide eyes. "What, you''re trying to change the subject? Let me tell you, I''m very upset. Don''t think you can easily brush this off, not even if you''re hurt!" His face was etched with determination, yet to Calista, his eyes were clearly pleading with him to pacify him, and he would then forgive her.


    Unlike the high and mighty Kallum from before, he was genuine and full of vitality.


    Suddenly, Calista threw herself into his arms, her eyes blinked as she looked up at him. "Forgive me, please!"


    The moment she lunged at him,


    Kallum had swiftly supported her.


    He saw a tender smile on het


    as she coyly pleaded for his


    forgiveness. Such behavior from her


    could truly melt the fiercest of anger into nothingness.


    Despite his numerous attempts, Kallum found it impossible to maintain a cold facade in the face of her pitiful gaze.


    D*rn it, if things continue like this, I''ll definitely have my authority undermined!


    "Dear Kallum... my wound hurts a lot, so could you please stop being angry?"


    When her typically cold voice softened, it still couldn''t be associated with gentleness or cuteness. Nevertheless, the slight change had already started to arouse Kallum.


    The corners of his mouth curled up. Unable to suppress his emotions, he had no choice but to sigh. "I really can''t stay angry at you..."


    Upon receiving her answer, Calista suddenly crawled out of his embrace. She slowly burrowed herself into the nket, resuming her aloof demeanor with her back turned toward him. "I''m so tired. I need to sleep a bit more. Please, leave me."


    Her clearly indifferent demeanor had dampened Kallum''s spirits just as they had begun to lift, leaving him gritting his teeth in frustration!


    "Calista! You b*stard, get up! We''re not done yet!"


    Calista looked at him helplessly and vulnerably. "Are you really going to cause a fuss with someone injured?"


    Seeing how Calista was all


    bandaged up, Kallum was at a loss


    of words. He felt an eruption of anger within him, yet with no outlet, he was left with an unbearable sense of frustration.


    "You... you''re always ying the victim. I don''t believe a word you say!" "Ouch, it hurts!"


    "Where does it hurt? Let me take a look,"


    "I was just kidding!"


    Kallum was rendered speechless.


    Amidst the banter, the previous unpleasantness was quickly forgotten Kallum seemed as if he had not been left behind by Calista, had not been kept in the dark by her, and certainly had not been buttied by her He subsequently returned to his former state.


    Quintus shook his head, sighing once again. Love is a strange thing. It can make the weakest person strong, and the strongest person weak.


    Despite eating out of Calista''s hand, Kallum didn''t realize it at all. He was busy feeding Calista oatmeal, as her hands were not in a condition to do so herself. "So, you''re saying that Sterling was nowhere to be found when Gunner entered?"

 Chapter 206 Sell Them Off

    A mysterious glint shed in Calista''s eyes as she asked that with a smile.


    Kallum nodded. "Gunner checked the area. After the explosion, several cracks surfaced within the cave. These cracks led to a naturally formed cavern, which Sterling likely used as an escape route. However, Gunner discovered traces of blood. After testing, it was confirmed to be Sterling''s blood. Furthermore, it''s been confirmed that he''s been infected with the K Virus."


    "There''s nothing to worry about then," Calista uttered with augh. "As long as he''s sick, he won''t be able to leave. Everyone whoes here has to go through a check before they leave, with no exceptions. Unless he can get out of the boundaries of Jeahron and take a ne, he''s definitely unable to leave, but that''s not likely as a body weakened by illness can''t handle too much strenuous activity."


    Thinking about how one of her enemies from her past life had died, Calista was in a good mood,ughing as she said, "Now, the only thing I need to worry about is him spreading rumors about me obtaining the ''treasure''. What should I do about this?"N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Calista had obtained the items but was at a loss as to how to carry them away. All she could do was look hopefully at Kallum.


    Such a pleading expression was particrly effective on Kallum!


    He gave a mysterious smile. "Don''t worry, I''m here. Since we can''t take them with us, we might as well sell them here."


    ""Sell them?"


    Kallum nodded and exined, "Many people are aware that I obtained a batch of supplies from Uriah in Lostaria. However, no one has dared to ask me to produce them. This time, I specifically arranged for five cargo nes as a cover. When the timees, I''ll simply say these goods were transported here for sale. After all, these items can''t be sold domestically. Even if they harbor doubts about me bringing them here for sale, they won''t dare to question it. After all, Corleon has the world''srgest underground market, doesn''t it?" Calista broke into a smile, knowing there would be no issues now! Turning the items into cash and depositing it into an ount was the safest way to go!


    She raised her eyebrows slightly, looking at Kallum. "So when the timees, we''ll split it twenty-eighty, with you taking twenty and I get eighty?"


    The business-like tone when she was haggling was truly amusing to Kallum!


    He couldn''t help but smile.


    If it were anyone else, he wouldn''t have taken on even a fifty-fifty deal, as one misstep could lead to significant trouble, rendering the gains not worth the losses.


    However, when it came to Calista... He was already entirely hers, so what was the point in differentiating his money from hers?


    "Whatever you say, goes," he casually replied. Seeing Calista''s eyes instantly light up, he couldn''t help but want to say that he didn''t need anything and would give it all to her. Unfortunately, given Calista''s headstrong nature, she probably wouldn''t agree.


    Upon hearing that Kallum hade


    to Corleon to deal with those


    supplies, those in Corleon found it


    odd. However, when Kallum''s subordinates exined that he- deeply loved his woman and that his primary reason foring was to see her, and only secondarily to handle the supplies at hand, it all made sense to them.


    After all, Kallum was inherently a person who acted recklessly.


    The Corleon government felt confident they could handle what Kallum brought to the table. Despite it filling five cargo nes, they estimated its value wouldn''t exceed ten billion. It was still considered a worthy acquisition.


    Everyone was aware that Kallum had taken over a batch of goods from Uriah. While Uriah was still alive, he was notoriously meticulous, which meant the quality of his goods was undoubtedly top-notch.


    Upon learning of their intention to take everything, Kallum happily handed over all the goods without a second thought, focusing solely on staying by Calista''s side.


    In order to prevent the Corleons


    from discovering that the items were excavated from the city of Jeahron, Kallum detonated the cave after retrieving them, obliterating the terrifyingboratory in an instant. The virus that had leaked from thisb had already harmed the people of an entire city, so it had no right to exist any longer.


    However, there were some useful pieces of information inside, which Calista had brought back.


    Once the deal was sealed, the local government held a special banquet in honor of Kallum. They also extended an invitation to Calista and the medical team, expressing their gratitude for the significant contributions they had made in the area.


    Calista didn''t think her contributions


    were significant. She was well aware that the banquet was primarily for Kallum. However, Kallum''s situation was unique, requiring him to minimize contact with others. She knew that she would inevitably have to put in some effort when the time came.


    Once they were all dressed up, they boarded a ne to the most splendid city nearby. Due to their high status, Kallum and Calista were not subjected to any checks when they left, but everyone else had to go through rigorous screening before they could board the ne. Upon arriving at the location, the experts following behind Calista seemed a bit lost.


    The wealth disparity in the country was vast. The rich had cars made of gold, while the poor''s most beautiful jewelry might be defective products scavenged from trash heaps. Having spent a long time in Jeahron, they found the sudden transition to the opulent skyscrapers a bit jarring.


    However, Kallum had long since grown ustomed to it, and Calista didn''t pay it any mind either. Be it their appearance, demeanor, or status, they were undoubtedly the most dazzling pair. As soon as they entered the banquet hall, they immediately attracted everyone''s attention.


    "See that? That''s the head of the Fairchild family from Chanaea! He''s a world-ss catch, a real influential man. If I can secure his favor, my family''s status will soar to new heights."


    Avishly dressed woman, Sophia, spoke to a strikingly featured woman beside her.

 Chapter 207 Sharp Tongue

    The striking woman, Seraphina Bushwick, furrowed her brows. "Don''t you see there''s already a woman by his side? Besides, all the women who''ve approached him have been turned away. I''m afraid you might not stand a chance."


    Sophia puffed out her chest and retorted, "You''re really not well-informed. That woman is his godsister."


    "I don''t think so." Seraphina prided herself on being a good judge of character. When Kallum looked at Calista, his gaze was not that of a brother looking at his sister. Instead, it was as if she was the only person in the world, and everything else was inconsequential. Sophia huffed, "Even if she isn''t, so what? Ie from a prestigious family, and I''m far more voluptuous than her. I have more experience too. Does she even know how to please a man? Charlie once told me that women from Chanaea are quite boring in bed. Just you watch, I''ll definitely outshine her!" After she finished speaking, she adjusted her jewelry and hair, picked up a ss of red wine, and walked toward Kallum.


    Calista was feeling overwhelmed. Even though there were four people trailing behind Kallum, they could only assist Kallum in warding off those with ill intentions. When it came to fending off alcohol and women, they were of no help.


    Luckily, there weren''t many women of status here. Instead, there were many high-ranking rulers from Corleon. They made excellent partners for coboration. Perhaps with just a few words exchanged, both parties could reap tremendous benefits, so why not? Quite a few individuals had traveled here by ne, perhaps harboring various intentions, or perhaps they simply wanted to see what this young head of the Fairchild family looked like, and whether he was easy to get along with.


    At that moment, a woman pushed her way through.


    "Hello, Mr. Kallum. I wonder if I could have the honor of sharing a drink with you?"


    Upon hearing a female voice, Calista immediately became cautious, wanting to forbid the other woman from approaching Kallum. However, the one who came this time wasn''t just any ordinary socialite. Calista had a bit of an impression of her- she was the daughter of the King of Steel in Corleon, a woman of such charm that with a mere crook of her finger, she could have a crowd of men falling at her feet.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "My name is Sophia. Don''t you want to chat with me?" Sophia asked, raising an eyebrow subtly at Kallum.


    Her features were exceptionally delicate, and from her bold red lips to her curvaceous figure, every aspect of her exuded a seductive allure. Usually, a little initiative on her part was enough to win over anyone she desired, causing them to fall under her spell. Therefore, it was only natural that she had her sights set on Kallum this time.


    If it were anyone else, Kallum would have felt the desire to engage in conversation. After all, he was a businessman, and he always had a bit more patience for those he found useful. But for a socialite like Sophia... he found her distasteful.


    Upon seeing Kallum nce at her before immediately shifting his attention elsewhere, the smile on Sophia''s face froze. Before she could say anything else, Kallum had already taken Calista''s hand and led her away.


    Ever since she began attending banquets at the age of twelve, Sophia had never experienced such a cold reception. A sh of defiance sparked in her eyes, and she chased after Kallum.


    "Mr. Kallum, my father has been wanting to prate the market in Chanaea and has been looking for a partner. I wonder if you have any-"


    "Ms. Sophia." Seeing that Kallum was bing impatient, Calista decided she had to intervene to prevent him from offending Sophia. With a smile, she said, "Mr. Kallum already has a femalepanion for tonight." Naturally, Sophia understood the double entendre in those words.


    "You?" She scrutinized Calista with a critical eye before revealing a flirtatious smile. "Little girl, you seem so frail. Mr. Kallum appears to be quite vigorous in that department. Are you sure you can handle him all by yourself?"


    Calista rarely encountered such fiery women. Feeling unsure, she asked, "What do you mean?"


    Sophia hooked her arm around


    Calista''s neck, teasingly blowing a breath against it. "In your country, there''s a phrase called ''the more the merrier, no? I don''t mind sharing and can teach you a lot. Want to give it a try?"


    Seeing Sophia''s somewhat flirtatious gaze toward Calista, Kallum feared that this woman might not have qualms with sleeping with the fairer gender, so he quickly pulled Calista behind him. "You should consider switching to a stronger perfume when you go out in the future."


    A sh of disgust crossed his eyes, and his lips curled up in a mocking smile.


    Unfortunately, Sophia didn''t quite catch on, still basking in the joy of Kallum actually responding to her. Without thinking, she replied, "You don''t like a lighter scent?"


    "That''s not it."Kallum scoffed,


    scrutinizing her with a discerning


    gaze. "I''m just worried that a mild fragrance wouldn''t be enough to mask your scent. Could you please


    stay away from me? You''re stinking the air around me!"


    After saying that, he didn''t bother to check how Sophia reacted; he just took Calista''s hand and left.


    Calista shook her head. "You really do have a sharp tongue..."


    She had merely expressed a simpleint, feeling that Sophia didn''t seem too bad and that his words shouldn''t be so hurtful. However, Kallum took it in an entirely different way. Back when he despised Calista, he had spewed words far more vicious than this. If what he said truly hurt her... then... would she hold a grudge against him?


    He shot a guilty nce at Calista, wanting to ask yet afraid to do so. What if his question reminded her of a grudge she had forgotten? What would he do then? Seeing Kallum frown, Calista thought she might have spoken too harshly.


    "All right, don''t overthink it. After all... that''s just your nature."


    As she spoke, she tried to pull Kallum forward, but the man simply wouldn''t budge.

 Chapter 208 Only You Are Worthy

    "What''s wrong?" Calista looked back at him.


    In order to project a sense of dependency, Calista had deliberately worn a beige mini-dress that day. Her long hair was styled into an elegant bun, and her makeup was in sweet, colorful tones, which somewhat softened her usual sharpness. At that moment, her nce back and smile bore such a resemnce to her former self, yet it was also strikingly different.


    Kallum furrowed his brow, studying her intently. After a moment of silence, he finally managed to say, "I won''t speak like this again in the future."


    Calista turned around in surprise. "Why?"


    Because you don''t like it...


    Kallum pursed his lips, then said, "If you''re into men who are courteous and gentlemanly, I can be that kind of man for you."


    Suddenly, Calista understood his intentions. She gave him a genuine smile, her radiant eyes sparkling as they curved in delight. This sight was so breathtaking that anyone who saw it would feel momentarily unable to breathe. Coincidentally, a spotlight was shining on her, making her the center of attention. Those who passed by, regardless of gender, all came to a halt.


    "No need." Calista shook her head. "If you were to change, then you wouldn''t be you anymore. The part of you I fell for might just be your reckless nature."


    Living without restrictions or worries, doing as one pleased - such a life was truly enviable and desirable.


    "Really?"


    Kallum also began to smile, his mood instantly brightening. Blessed with handsome features, there was an innate sense of nobility about him when he smiled. It was breathtaking to behold, yet one dared not stare for too long. "Yes." Calista nodded, her mood quite good.


    Sterling was a goner, and Harvey was next. Once they were both out of the picture, Quincy would be left without any support. It would be a simple task to deal with her, hence the high spirits Calista was in.


    When they stood together, it was as if they emanated a brilliant light, causing everyone near them to pale inparison.


    "What a perfect pair of lovers," Seraphina couldn''t help but exim. Her friend Sophia, on the other hand, was wide-eyed in shock!


    "Seraphina, were you even listening to me? I can''t believe you''re actually praising him! Good heavens! I can''t believe such an arrogant and malicious man exists in this world! I''ve made up my mind - he''s definitely going on my cklist!"


    Seraphina nced at her and replied, "I told you earlier not to set yourself up for humiliation. The woman he''s interested in is the one by his side."


    Suddenly, a chorus of voices echoed through the room. Everyone turned their attention in unison, realizing that the host of the banquet had arrived.


    A distinguished elderly man, dressed as grandly as a king, walked in. His name was Nevio Bushwick, and he was the wealthiest individual in the entire nation of Corleon. His status was esteemed, and without his financial backing, the local government would have struggled to amass such arge sum of money. After all, managing funds was no small matter.


    "Hello, Mr. Kallum. You''re indeed the youngest family head I''ve ever met."


    Kallum held him in high regard, primarily because of the camaraderie that Kallum''s own grandfather shared with him.


    "I''m sorry that your grandfather couldn''t see you as you are today." After a brief conversation, Nevio patted Kallum''s shoulder, expressing his regret.


    Kallum also offered someforting words, and the two of them had a delightful conversation.


    After their conversation had ended, only then did Nevio cast a scrutinizing nce at Calista. His gaze held a hint of disapproval, but in the end, he chose not to voice it out loud.


    "You''re the goddaughter of the Fairchild family, aren''t you? Indeed, you are a beautiful girl."


    Even though the words spoken held no apparent ambiguity, Calista still keenly sensed hostility.


    She nodded slightly. "I''m surprised you know of me. It''s quite an honor."


    Her confident demeanor left a good impression on those around her. However, Nevio''s brow subtly furrowed. He made a few offhand remarks before taking his leave. Calista said to Kallum, "I feel like he doesn''t like me."


    Kallum didn''t question Calista''s intuition. He subtly raised an eyebrow, and in the end, his gaze held a hint of chilliness.


    "It doesn''t matter. We won''t see him again in the future."


    Meanwhile, Nevio and Sophia


    .n


    shared a brief embrace, after which the old man turned his gaze toward Seraphina and questioned, "Seraphina, what''s going on with you? Why aren''t you chatting with Mr. Kallum?"


    Seraphina was Nevio''s granddaughter.


    Sensing that the two had something to discuss, Sophia tactfully stepped aside. Only then did Seraphina begin to speak.


    "Grandpa, you''ve seen it too. Mr. Kallum has a truly remarkabledypanion."This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "She''s just a cunning woman driven by greed. Shees from a poor background, and it''s already a miracle she managed to get this far. Since she hasn''t be Mr. Kallum''s woman yet, naturally, she poses no threat to you. Seraphina, I believe you can win over that young man."


    Seraphina furrowed her brows. "I don''t intend to break anyone up, especially since they seem to be deeply in love."


    "In love?" Nevio sneered, "Child, they are not a match, not fit to be together. Only you alone are worthy of such a husband."


    As he spoke, he let out a sigh. "I have


    no other options. I''m old, and my children are all grown up. Your


    father passed away too early, s


    who will protect you when I''m gone? You need to find a strong husband. You have no other choice."


    Seraphina lowered her head. Calista deliberately wore a beige mini-dress that day to project a sense of dependency


    "Okay, Grandpa, I... I''ll heed your arrangements."

 Chapter 209 Separate Rooms

    Only then did Nevio sh a satisfied smile. "Good girl. You don''t have to do a thing. Tonight, I''ll have them stay here to rest. When the timees, I''ll arrange everything for you."


    As he spoke, he turned to gaze upon his granddaughter''s face. It was as if he could see through her, to the beloved wife he had lost. Of all his descendants, only Seraphina bore the greatest resemnce to histe wife.


    "You''re breathtakingly beautiful, so only the most outstanding man in the world can be your husband. I can''t bear to see you married off to those old men or those upstarts who appeared out of nowhere! They''re all a bunch of lowborns, not aristocrats!" Nightfall arrived, and the banquet went off without a hitch, no errors or mishaps in sight. The only issue that arose was the matter of amodations for the night.


    When at Fairchild Manor, Calista and Kallum shared a room. Even in Jeahron, when Kallum insisted on rooming with Calista, no one dared to object.


    However, here, Calista was considered as Kallum''s sister in name. If Kallum had wanted her to be his woman, he would have simply dered her as such. But since he had chosen to call her his sister, it meant he wanted to protect her without any romantic intentions. Given this, there was no way they would be assigned one room.


    When he arrived at the guest room, it was only then that Kallum realized that fact, his face turning particrly grim.


    No, I want to share a room with Callie!


    Calista was somewhat troubled. Although Kallum was a decent fighter himself, his current condition was indeed special, and he required constantpany. It seemed like tonight, Quintus and the others would have to stand guard.


    Quintus mentally bemoaned, No way! I don''t want to spend the night with Mr. Kallum!


    The smile on the butler who had been in charge of room assignments froze on his face. "Mr. Kallum, do you have some objections regarding the room allocation? Your bodyguards have been arranged in the rooms adjacent to yours. As for thisdy, she has been assigned a presidential suite of the same standard as this."


    In other words, he was implying he had been fair in the room assignment and had not mistreated Calista.


    Seeing Kallum frown, clearly intending to speak, Calista quickly stopped him!


    "Everything is fine! We''re really pleased with your arrangements," she said. "How about this? I''ll apany my brother inside. You all wait for me out here, okay?"


    As she spoke, she pulled Kallum into the room. No sooner had the door closed than Kallum pinned Calista against the wall, holding her tightly in his arms!


    "I want to sleep with you." There was a hint of grievance in his voice. "You came here without a word, during that time I barely got any rest. It was only these past few days that I managed to get some decent sleep. And now, you''re leaving me again? Hmm?"


    As soon as they stepped in, the warm lights in the room automatically came on. In the dim lighting, the contours of Kallum''s face appeared even more strikingly handsome. There was an indescribable tension and restraint in his eyes as he gazed at her. Calista felt utterly helpless. "Since I''m your sister, it''s best if we don''t do anything too inappropriate. If you really can''t stand the others staying with you, then I''lle overter..."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Only then did Kallum break into a delighted smile. He tightened his arms around Calista, cradling her entirely in his embrace. Breathing in her sweet scent, he murmured in a low voice, "Thene over earlier. I''ll change your bandage." "Okay."


    Calista nodded, understanding that flesh wounds, once stitched up, would heal quickly. She could already feel the itchiness of her healing wound.


    When they emerged, the person in charge of settling them in was a bit uneasy. Anyone with working eyes could perceive the underlying sexual tension between Kallum and Calista. His bone-deep desire was suppressed deep within his rationality. Although only a


    ovel


    nt of it


    was revealed through his gaze, it inexplicably sent shivers down one''s spine, as if there was no room for anyone else to intervene.


    Atst, everyone was led to their rooms. However, Calista was on a mission, so she was destined not to enjoy therge water bed alone. Resigned to her fate, she stealthily entered Kallum''s room. By this time, he had already finished bathing. Upon seeing her, Quintus let out a sigh of relief, as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.


    "Mr. Kallum, Ms. Calista, please rest well! I''ll take my leave now."


    "Go ahead."


    Calista had also just finished bathing, so her hair was still slightly damp, notpletely dry. At that moment, she sat on therge bed. As they were high up in a skyscraper, the neon lights below seemed incredibly distant. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows, she could see the brilliant starlight. Calista looked up at the sky and then down at the ground, finding the view quite pleasing.


    Kallum originally wanted to have a drink, but after hisst encounter with "counterfeit liquor" which led to a stomach pump, Calista forbade him from drinking. He had remained sober that night, not even a drop of alcohol touching his lips. Thus, he had no choice but to put on some music before he moved closer to Calista, embracing her from behind and letting them both fall onto the bed.


    If theyy on their side, the stunning view outside the window was fully visible. Even silence was a form of bliss when one was able to quietly embrace the one they loved.


    "I didn''t expect this ce to be this beautiful. I never had the chance to travel properly before. This time, it feels like I''m on an overseas trip," Calista said with a smile.


    Yet, her cheerful voice stirred a deep bitterness in Kallum''s heart.


    Suddenly, he remembered what his mother had once told him. She had said that Calista was having a hard time living under her stepmother''s roof. Every time the holidays rolled around, his mother would encourage him to take Calista out for fun whenever he was on a business trip. At the time, he found this suggestion incredibly annoying and never agreed to it. Now, reflecting back, he realized that if he had simply gone along with it, Calista could have visited many ces and might have


    been much happier. How could he have been so cruel back then?

 Chapter 210 I Came To Seduce You

    "Once I''m better, I''ll take you wherever you want to go."


    Yet, Kallum found himself pondering - what if he tragically passed away?


    With that thought, he pursed his lips, then said, "Starting from tomorrow, I''ll take you around. Consider it as keeping mepany!" Calista nestled in his arms, chuckling lightly. "You must be joking. Given your current situation, how could you possibly go around?"


    "But..."


    "That''s enough. You''ll recover. When that timees, if you still wish for me to apany you to explore the world, I would be more than honored." Kallum gritted his teeth, realizing now, more than ever, that he simply couldn''t afford to die!


    "All right, let''s go to sleep."


    Calista was feeling a bit tired, so she pulled Kallum under the covers with her. Just then, there was a sudden knock on the door.


    "Who is it?" Kallum asked curiously.


    Quintus, who was keeping vigil at the door, responded in a dry tone, "Mr. Kallum, it''s Nevio''s granddaughter."


    Since Quintus was speaking in Chanaean, Seraphina couldn''t understand him.


    It didn''t take any effort for Kallum to guess what kind of sly scheme Nevio was up to. How unfortunate this had to happen while Calista was with him! Calista yfully nudged Kallum. "We''re still on someone else''s turf, and we didn''t bring a lot of backup. Try not to offend anyone with your words again."


    Recalling how Calista thought he was too sharp-tongued, Kallum felt somewhat wronged. If he had known earlier that he would fall in love with her, he would never have said those hurtful words before.


    "So what do you suggest I do?"


    Calista nced at Kallum, surprised by his unexpectedpliance.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "You just need to discourage her without her finding out I''m here. After all, we, as siblings, should maintain some semnce of reputation."


    Kallum found himself contemting her words. What did reputation matter? If he were to survive, Calista would be his wife and the mother of his future children. However, if he perished, there would be no hindrance to Calista. She could still marry... For reasons unknown, the mere thought of Calista marrying someone else after his death stirred an intense urge in Kallum to keep living, even if he were to be a walking corpse!


    He hummed in response, then spoke.


    "Come in."


    Calista obediently curled up under the nket, hiding herself away.


    Seraphina appeared somewhat hesitant, but as the door swung open, she still stepped inside.


    "Is there something you need?"


    Before she entered, Kallum had tousled his hair and left his cor undone. Coupled with the noticeable lump on the bed, if Seraphina didn''t know what Kallum had been doing before she came in, she would have lived her years in vain.


    Sandia initially thought that Kallum was a devoted man, yet how could he be so eager to find someone else? Remembering the numerous women who flocked to him at the party, she couldn''t help but wonder which lucky one was sharing his bed now. At that thought, she no longer felt guilty about her involvement in the matter and gradually straightened her back with renewed confidence.


    "Mr. Kallum, as you can see, I came to seduce you."


    Calista was mildly surprised. Foreign women were indeed more liberal. Even though it was clear that the object of her affection was not alone in his bed, she was still self-promoting.


    A glimmer of disgust shed in Kallum''s eyes as he said, "Is this the kind of upbringing the Bushwick family imparts? To intrude on other''s affairste at night?" His choice of words was as delicate as possible, yet it still stung.


    The look on Seraphina''s face turned


    grim. "Let''s not beat around the


    bush, Mr. Kallum. You should know that among all the girls at tonight''s banquet, none is more suitable to marry you than me. In terms of family background and benefits my grandfather has said that if you choose me, I will bring with me thirty percent of his shares to the Fairchild family, not to mention other


    coborations and benefits. In terms of appearance, I am of mixed race, and although I don''t have a fairplexion, my looks are notcking."


    Her words were candid. Seraphina was a stunningly beautiful woman, and her striking features were truly captivating. Her uniqueplexion added an exotic charm to her. In Corleon, she was affectionately known as the "Desert Flower," a title genuinely earned without any


    pretense.


    From this perspective, she and Kallum seemed rather well-suited for each other. Of course, that was only on the surface.


    Kallum scoffed. Just because he hadn''t set foot outside in a year didn''t mean he was out of the loop.


    "Firstly, your father has passed


    away. Due to the favoritism you


    receive from Nevio, your uncles have held a grudge against you for a long time. Even though marrying you could bring me some benefits, I


    would rather not risk offending


    future head of the Bushwick family. It''s a case of the potential loss


    outweighing the gain. Secondly, your grandfather is no longer the


    influential family head he once was. I''m well aware of how much of his shares he''s secretly distributed over the past year. Hence, the value he can bring to me is still up for discussion. Thirdly, I''m not fond of women with tanned skin."


    Of course, the most important reason was that he already had someone he loved. Everything else was just an excuse he hade up with.


    Seraphina was taken aback by Kallum''s words. She hadn''t expected him to know their family''s affairs in such detail, even in Chanaea. He was indeed a formidable opponent. "What if I don''t require you to marry me?" Seraphina gritted her teeth before suddenly proposing, "I could be your lover and offer you shares. In return, you protect me."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 211 Better To Let Them Gossip

    Kallum raised an eyebrow. "Why do you have to sell your body like that? Can''t you just pay me for protecting you?"


    Seraphina shook her head and replied, "I don''t trust the words of men. I believe more in winning over others through my body, building a rapport through physical connection."


    As she spoke, she loosened her grip, allowing her bathrobe to slide down and reveal a voluptuous and alluring body that was enough to quicken anyone''s pulse.


    However, Kallum had turned his head away instantly!


    "What are you doing? Put your clothes back on!"


    Huh? She took off her clothes? Calista attempted to sneak a peek but was pushed back down by Kallum.


    What are you trying to see? You''re only allowed to look at me!


    Seraphina was somewhat hurt. She hadn''t anticipated that despite going this far, Kallum would still resist. Could it be because of the woman in his bed?


    "Mr. Kallum, what are you pretending for? You were all lovey-dovey with your godsister before, yet now you''re in bed with another woman. I''m offering myself to you, so why are you holding back?" She sneered, "Or could it be you have some sort of cleanliness obsession and only ept one woman per night?"


    Her words carried a hint of mockery.


    Kallum couldn''t hold back anymore. If it weren''t for Calista being there, his first words would have been "Get out!" He had been patient for so long, but this woman still wouldn''t give up. It was truly infuriating! "Are you that desperate for a man?"


    A smirk tugged at the corner of Kallum''s mouth as he went all out. With just a single sentence, he managed to deeply humiliate Seraphina. "You...!"


    Seeing that if Kallum uttered another word, they would have another enemy on their hands, Calista couldn''t help but hold him tight under the nket! Then, slowly, she wriggled her way out. It was better to let people gossip a bit rather than offend them.


    "Calista?" The moment Seraphina saw Calista emerging from the nket, her eyes widened in surprise. Immediately, she was overwhelmed by a wave of embarrassment and shame! However, her dignity wouldn''t allow her to just run off like that. She forced herself to stay calm, picked up the clothes that were piled at her feet, and put them on. She then spoke softly. "So that''s how it is... It seems I misunderstood you, Mr. Kallum."


    With a hint of helplessness, Calista said, "You''re right. Tonight was a misunderstanding, Ms. Bushwick. Let''s pretend that we didn''t see each other tonight, shall we?"


    In this way, at least they would both be able to maintain some dignity.


    Seraphina''s lips were pale as she nodded slightly. Then, she straightened her clothes, ready to leave.


    Before she left, she remembered her grandfather''s request. He had repeatedly emphasized that she must seed, but...


    She turned her gaze to Calista and asked, "Are you two really in that kind of rtionship? If so, why would you choose to present yourselves as siblings?"


    The reasons behind it all couldn''t be simply summed up in a few words. Calista let out a sigh before she suddenly wrapped her arms around Kallum''s neck, delivering a passionate kiss.


    The moment she drew near, Kallum


    instinctively let down his guard, pulling her into his embrace. With a natural dominance, he epted her kiss. Although it was a fleeting contact, after their lips met, Kallum found it hard to resist nuzzling against Calista''s face. The desire and affection in his eyes were as deep as the ocean.


    "Now, do you understand?" Calista, hanging onto Kallum, turned to look back at Seraphina.


    Only then did Seraphina take a step back. Without uttering a single word more, she swiftly walked out the door.


    The room fell silent once again.


    With a swift roll, Kallum skillfully pinned Calista beneath him!


    "What are you doing?" Calista asked


    in a whisper. She wasn''t scared at all, knowing that Kallum couldn''t really do anything. The most he could do was to hug and kiss her. But hadn''t he taken advantage of her in this way over the past year? She was already used to it.


    Kallum''s body grew increasingly hot. He gazed at Calista, his eyes resembling a dense pool of ink.


    Suddenly, hemented in a deep, husky voice, "Callie... I think I''m losing control."


    "Oh?" Calista''s eyelids drooped to half-mast, her thoughts unreadable.


    Yet, Kallum couldn''t stop himself from gently rubbing his face against hers.


    Despite their undeniable closeness, despite the entanglement of their minds and bodies, there was an unsettling restlessness that lingered amidst their sweetness.


    It was like an incessant itch thatProperty ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    couldn''t be scratched, or being famished but unable to indulge in the dessert right in front of you. People were inherently greedy, especially when it came to the ones they loved. No amount of


    satisfaction was ever enough. Yet, he was in a position where he could do nothing.


    "Callie..." Kallum barely managed to utter her name, his heavy panting echoing clearly within the quiet room. His voice was hoarse as he asked, "If I recover, would you really marry me?"


    He lifted the thumb ring in his hand as if to say, "Look, I''m always wearing it. There''s no getting rid of me, even if you wanted to."


    Calista chuckled lightly. "We''ll cross that bridge when wee to it, okay?"


    "No way!" Kallum red at her stubbornly, then changed his tone. "I was just teasing you. In reality, who else could you possibly want besides me? Don''t even think about it!"


    Even though the words were meant to be domineering, why did they not sound imposing at all? Calista even felt the urge tough.


    She gently ran her fingers through his hair, and in that moment, she felt a hint of sweetness, as if she were in a dream.


    Taking the initiative, she wrapped her arms around Kallum''s neck and gave him a kiss. "Are you in pain?"


    Kallum huffed. "Just a little bit."

 Chapter 212 He Seemed Normal And Healthy

    Then, he gently licked her lips and added, "But the pain will go away once I have you..." With a generous smile, Calista said, "Then dig in!"


    "I won''t be holding back!"


    Kallum pounced, and in an instant, the atmosphere in the room became thick with desire. They had experienced all the intimacy a man and woman could share, stopping just short of the final step. If it weren''t for the looming threat of the K Virus, perhaps they could have found even more happiness.


    However, the very next day, Kallum received a piece of news that was utterly vexing.


    "Are you certain you didn''t make a mistake?" For the first time, Kallum questioned thepetence of his subordinates.


    From all the way in Chanaea, Paul the butler assured him confidently, "No. Sterling has indeed returned. Moreover, he personally came to Fairchild Manor to leave you an invitation. He said he''d like to invite you and Ms. Stafford to attend the Wolford family''s banquet." The butler paused for a moment, then added, "Hisplexion was normal and healthy. He didn''t look like he had the K Virus at all."


    As Calista listened from the side, her expression gradually darkened. Could it be that those people were as indestructible as cockroaches?


    There was no way Sterling could pass through thatboratory where the virus had leaked without getting infected. Moreover, they had even found the blood that he had coughed up. It was clear he was infected, so how could he appear normal?


    After hanging up the phone and seeing that Calista was upset, Kallum hastily reassured her, "No matter what he ns to do, don''t worry. You still have me."


    Kallum wasn''t afraid of the Wolford family''s retaliation, as long as they had the capability to do so.


    "Right now, Sterling has lost the resources from Jeahron, making it nearly impossible for him to make aeback. At this point, charges like arms trafficking and profiting from war are enough to bring him down. You don''t need to worry." Calista shook her head. "That''s not it. I was just wondering about the purpose of his invitation to the banquet."


    "He definitely has ill intentions, so we just won''t go."


    Suddenly, Calista let out a sigh. "I have a feeling it''s not that simple. This action of his seems quite reckless. I think he might have lost his mind."


    Sterling was indeed going mad!


    "Check again! You must have made a mistake!" Sterling was frantically clutching a doctor, who looked even more terrified than if he had been seized by a demon!Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Mr. Wolford... um... There''s no mistake. You... you have indeed contracted the K Virus!"


    No sooner had he finished speaking than he was forcefully kicked by Sterling, leaving him groaning on the ground.


    "How could this be? How is this even possible?"


    No matter how Sterling thought


    about it, it all seemed absurd to him.


    He was perfectly fine, even


    managed to leave Jeahron without a hitch and took a passenger ne back. How could he possibly have contracted the K Virus? Didn''t those infected with the K Virus suffer from ahigh fever for three days and experience intense body pain? Forget about returning to his country; he shouldn''t have even


    been able to leave the mountain.


    Upon his return, he considered himself to be among the extremely fortunate. Despite having passed through theboratory where the virus had leaked, his only symptom had been coughing up a bit of blood. He had no other issues, leading him to believe he hadn''t contracted the virus. He felt as though even the heavens were on his side!


    Just yesterday, he returned home in a fit of rage and sought sce in thepany of a woman. However, not long after their encounter began, the woman started to spike a fever. Haunted by the specter of the K Virus, he was immediately petrified. Upon examination, the woman had indeed contracted the K Virus.


    However, she had been perfectly fine when she arrived!


    After what happened with the virus in Jeahron, Sterling was feeling traumatized. Hence, he had insisted that his butler first arrange aprehensive medical examination for the woman. Only if there were no issues could she be brought over...


    If the issue wasn''t with her, then it must be with him! It was only then that he tested himself and was informed of the earlier conclusion.


    Sterling copsed onto the ground with a mixture ofughter and tears. He was uncertain whether he was fortunate or unfortunate. On one hand, he was lucky to have returned alive. On the other hand, he had indeed not managed to escape the K Virus. Gradually, as he watched the doctor groaning on the ground before him, a glint of murderous intent shed in his eyes.


    Why do I have to die while these insignificant creatures get to livefortably?


    When Sterling''s gaze swept over him, the doctor didn''t dare to make a sound. Bearing with the severe pain, he sprawled at Sterling''s feet, his eyes filled with pleading.


    "Mr. Wolford, please don''t kill me! I swear I''ll keep my mouth shut!"


    His face was ashen, slick with cold sweat that almost dampened his sses as he pleaded, "My daughter was just born, while my wife has been frail and sickly since childhood. I can''t die. Mr. Wolford, I beg you, give me a chance. I promise I won''t breathe a word of this!" Sterling stared at him for a moment. Eventually, his tears andughter stopped. It was as if he had epted reality.


    He asked softly, "If I were truly infected, then why don''t I have any symptoms?"


    Seeing that Sterling had calmed


    down, the doctor quickly tried to


    appease him "Mr. Wolford, it seems


    that you have a unique natural


    constitution, making you


    the K Virus. You are an asymptomatic carrier of the virus, but you''re notpletely insted. In other words, you can infect others, but you won''t be affected by the virus yourself. As long as you''re careful not to infect others, you can still lead a normal life!"


    The doctor''s frantic words made Sterlingugh. "Can I still lead a normal life like this?"


    A glint of bloodlust shed in his eyes. Suddenly, he sprang up, lunging at the doctor. His mouth opened wide, and he bit fiercely into the doctor''s neck, drawing blood instantly!

 Chapter 213 In Despair

    "No." The doctor was truly in despair.


    His frantic struggles were in vain. After all, how could an ordinary doctor possibly be a match for Sterling?


    After Sterling released the doctor, thetter quickly retreated, clutching his neck. His face was ashen while he was in a state of shock.


    Indeed, an antibody injection was a possible solution, but he simply didn''t have the money for it. Furthermore, even with the injection, there was only a one percent chance of survival. For most people, a one percent chance was synonymous with impossibility.


    He finally let out a loud scream. His body, covered in blood and struggling on the ground, was akin to a wild beast gone mad. "Why? Why on earth did you do it?"


    Inside the confined space, Sterlingughed heartily upon hearing those words, revealing his blood-stained teeth. "Well, now you''re sick too. Come, join me in living a normal life."


    The doctor''s eyes instantly turned red.


    "I''ll kill you!" He lunged at Sterling with all the strength he could muster as if he was courting death himself. He was hell-bent on tearing his opponent to shreds.


    "Why did you have to do this to me? Why did you harm me?" However, after only hitting Sterling twice, he copsed from a high fever.


    His body curled up, reacting just like the woman from the previous night.


    Sterling felt a strange surge of pleasure as if he were a king in the world of viruses, holding the power of life and death.


    Thus, surprisingly, he ended up shooting the doctor with a calm demeanor. Ignoring the bewildered stares of those around him, he descended the stairs and shot the woman who was still feverish.


    Most of Sterling''s trusted aides in Corleon had perished, leaving only a handful of people in the room. Those individuals were still in the dark about what had transpired. Keith was perplexed by the events of the previous night, unsure why the woman he personally escorted for examination contracted the K Virus so suddenly.


    While Keith was still pondering if that was someone else''s sinister scheme, Sterling had already summoned them all.


    Sterling pointed at the doctor on the ground and said, "Someone''s trying to kill me. This woman wasn''t the issue. The problem was this doctor. Luckily, I discovered the truth in time and killed them both. They were both infected with the K Virus."


    The words of Sterling filled the eight people standing in the living room with a desire to flee, their faces etched with fear. It was only the unintentional disy of murderous intent from Sterling that kept them from making any rash moves.


    Sterling cast them a nce,


    sneering, "Luckily, I''m unscathed.


    Take care of these two bodiesN?velDrama.Org ? content.


    properly. Since others have dared intrude into my home, it wouldn''t make sense for me not to retaliate. Keith, have someone tidy up that house in Horington. I''m going to host a banquet. I want those people to know that I, Sterling, am still very much alive."


    Thus, it came to be that Sterling personally visited to extend an invitation to the banquet.


    At that moment, Callista decided to head back with Kallum first because Sterling''s situation was strange. If she didn''t figure out what was actually going on, she felt she would be quite unsettled.


    The matter concerning Seraphina had already been negotiated by Kallum with Nevio. It was unclear to Callista what Kallum had said, but when he returned, his mood was fairly good, evidently indicating a win-win oue.


    Callista nced over the frail, gaunt patients, whispering softly to Bowen. "Mr. Haught, we''re entrusting the matters in Corleon to you. With so many research subjects, I''m confident we''ll see results soon. When that timees, we''ll be able to save many lives." "Ms. Calista, rest assured, I''ll be here waiting for your return," said Bowen.


    "Right." Callista nodded. "It shouldn''t be too long before I cane over. I''m also looking forward to hearing some good news from you. If you make any progress, make sure to tell me immediately."


    "All right, be careful on your journey."


    Once everything was settled there, Callista, carrying a sizable amount of wealth, returned to Chanaea with Kallum. Despite not being gone for long, returning gave her a surreal feeling. She felt as if something significant was about to happen, waiting beneath the calm city.


    When they returned, both Wanda


    and Ss were present. After all, Kallum''s venture outside was no small matter. Although it was unclear how Kallum managed to pass through checkpoints, such actions were extremely risky.. anyone were to discover that Kallum was a carrier of the K Virus, he would immediately face the prospect of being apprehended and quarantined. That was noughing matter. The situation was indeed that grave.


    Therefore, when Callista was talking to Wanda, Ss had no choice but to pull Kallum aside to discuss the pros and cons of the situation.


    "She had lost weight..." Wanda didn''t know what Callista had been up to in Corleon, but she knew that thetter had gone there with the intention of helping Kallum. At the time, she was incredibly moved by that. "Callie, you''re a good child. It''s me who has let you down..." Wanda spoke, on the verge of tears again.


    Over the past year, it seemed as if she was trying to shed all the tears she had never cried before, and she had aged significantly.


    Whenever faced with Wanda, Callista was always soft-hearted.


    "Aunt Wanda, I''m fine, so you don''t need to worry about me. Besides, we made significant progress and gained a lot during this trip. Who knows, maybe in a year''s time, Kallum will be fully recovered."


    Wanda was somewhatforted


    by Callista''s words. Even though she


    was well aware that a year''s recovery was impossible, she couldn''t bear to discourage Callista. After all, Callista was trying her best. She felt that if she couldn''t lend a


    hand, she shouldn''t at least hold Calista back.

 Chapter 214 Such A Risk

    how could you take such a risk?"


    Ss spoke at length, but seeing that Kallum remained unmoved, he couldn''t help but let out a long sigh. "Kallum, I understand that whatever you do, you always have a n. However, in times like these, it''s better to be safe than sorry. With so many eyes on our family, Seeing the white hairs at Ss'' temples, Kallum realized that he might have crossed the line. Unable to help himself, he patiently tried to calm things down. "Don''t worry. When I returned, I had already reached an agreement with Nevio Bushwick. From now on, I can freelye and go from Corleon without taking any risks." Upon seeing that Ss still disagreed, Kallum furrowed his brows. "My life was saved by Callie. If anything happens to her, I won''t be able to live. Therefore, I need to keep her close to feel at peace. Let''s not discuss this anymore. I won''t change my mind." Seeing his resolute attitude, Ss resignedly skipped over the topic. "By the way, you know about Sterling hosting a banquet in Horington, right? Over the past year, you''ve been constantly antagonizing the Wolford family. There''s a chance they might being to seek revenge on you."


    Ss didn''t hold absolute power, so he knew very little about what Kallum had done. The fact that Callista had made a big profit in Corleon was only known to his trusted aides. As for Sterling, perhaps seeing that they had already handled the supplies and destroyed the evidence, telling the truth would not have any corroboration and would only stir up trouble for himself. Therefore, he didn''t spread rumors after returning to his home country.


    Kallum said, "I''ll handle that matter myself. Since Sterling wants to y dirty, we can release the evidence we have. If he dared to coborate with Uriah, he should be prepared for his reputation to be ruined."


    Only then did Ss feel at ease. "All right, I''ll stay out of this matter then."


    As he spoke, a shadow passed over his eyes. "Take good care of yourself. I can tell that there seems to be something wrong with your health."


    Kallum was taken aback, not expecting to be discovered so quickly.


    After contracting the disease, he was originally expected to live for only a month at most. The damage inflicted by the K Virus on the human body was devastating. Even though Callista managed to save his life, the K Virus wouldn''t just let him off. Instead, it would only get


    worse.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Callista had mentioned before that, despite daily exercise, medication, and treatments, his health was still deteriorating. That was evident in his muscle atrophy and weakened immunity, among other symptoms. Unless the virus was defeated, there was no way to prevent that.


    He might be disabled in the future, but what was truly terrifying was the potential for his skin to be inmed and decay. Eventually, it might get to the point where a single drop of rainnding on him would feel as painful as being shot. In the end, when all sensation of pain had disappeared, he would be living like a walking corpse.


    Thus, Kallum was well-prepared for the changes in his own body.


    In front of Callista, he had always maintained an air of normalcy. In reality, every stride he took felt as if his leg muscles were on the verge of tearing apart and his bones were being ground down by a knife. Each step he took was akin to walking on the edge of a de. Yet, in Callista''s presence, he usually managed toplete his walk without a change in his expression.


    However, in the presence of others, Kallum either refrained from walking or didn''t bother to conceal it excessively, so Ss noticed.


    Kallum''s expression remained unchanged. "The changes in my body are normal and unavoidable unless the virus is defeated."


    He looked at Ss with a serious expression. "So, there''s no need to let Callie know about this. It would just add unnecessary stress for her."


    Is he worried about her stress or that she would be concerned? Ss didn''t voice his thoughts, but it was evident to him that his son was deeply in love. It was as if every time Kallum went to find her, he was ready to fight against the Wolford


    family till the end. Even though every


    attempt was challenging and thankless, he undertook them


    willingly.


    Indeed, thanks to Callista, Kallum''s life had been extended. Ss and the others had no choice but to ce all their hopes on her, wishing she could truly seed. The following days passed by rather peacefully.


    During that time, Callista had a meeting with Benedict.


    Benedict was vastly different from his past self. Initially, with the unconditional support of the Fairchild family, he was somewhat cautious but gradually grew morecent. Despite his naturally non-confrontational nature, even when he got carried away, it merely manifested in boasting. He never dared to do anything excessive.


    However, Yelena was a drastically different person from a year ago. Given Callista''s high status and


    prominence, even if she harbored et


    deep resentment, she couldn''t


    she had


    express it. In this past year, been behaving subserviently, which ironically led to Benedict sleeping with her a few more times.


    Upon hearing Callista''s words, Benedict responded with a hint of perplexity, "The Wolford family? Sterling did send me a message, but something about it seemed off. I don''t even know him, so I decided not to pursue that connection." Callista found her father quite amusing. Even though he was confident, he remained as he always had been, avoiding the limelight. He would still dodge influential figures whenever he could.


    "Indeed, it''s best if you stay away because I have a grudge against Sterling. Of course, the Fairchild family is shielding me now, so you''re not directly in the line of fire. However, you should still be cautious," said Callista.


    "What? You have a grudge with Sterling?" Benedict frowned. "Everyone says the Wolford family is vindictive, you..."


    "No worries, because I''m also vindictive." Suddenly, Callistaughed.


    Sitting on the couch, she was almost unrecognizable from the timid girl she once was.

 Chapter 215 Gunner Is Impressive

    "Basically, just avoid him for now. In a few days, Gunner wille to help you. With him around, you don''t need to worry," said Callista.


    Only then did Benedict feel at ease, nodding. "Gunner is indeed impressive. Also, those Parker Guards, including Gunner, are all not ordinary people. Each one of them is a capable subordinate of Mr. Kallum''s and could hold their own outside. Now that you''ve be Mr. Kallum''s sister, you shouldn''t have any feelings for him, right? I think Gunner is a good choice..."


    "Dad, I''m not even twenty yet." In fact, Callista had just celebrated her neenth birthday five months ago. I''m still young. And to pair me with Gunner? Ugh... The expression on Kallum''s face will be quite a sight. "Ah... Indeed. I forgot."


    Over the past year, Callista became too decisive. Thus, subconsciously, Benedict began treating her as if she were in her twenties, gradually developing a sense of yielding to her opinions and advice.


    "Oh yeah!" Benedict stuttered as if something had just urred to him. He took a sip of his coffee before he said, "Quincy mentioned that she''s thinking ofing back..."


    Callista suddenly raised an eyebrow.


    Listening in secret from the shadows, Yelena grew increasingly nervous. There was no helping it. After all, she was the one at a disadvantage at the moment.


    Feeling a bit unnerved under his daughter''s intense gaze, Benedict nevertheless mustered up his courage. Recalling Yelena''s words, he said, "What kind of longstanding grudge could there be between sisters? Besides, every time Quincy calls home, she mentions wanting to apologize to you. It''s just that you''re rarely home. Hence, you haven''t received the message."


    "Oh... So Quincy didn''t have my number, huh? I was actually quite keen on hearing her apology," Callista remarked with a half-smile.


    "Callie," Benedict expressed a look of disapproval. "In any case, Quincy ising back. I''ve already agreed to it. Once she returns, the two of you need to get along. You two are my only daughters. I really can''t bear to see you tearing each other apart. You''re all grown up now. It''s time to act ordingly."


    Upon seeing that Benedict was speaking forcefully, Callista realized he was actually waiting for her approval. In that household, her words had subtly carried more weight. "Let here back if she wants to, but not until three months from now. I have some matters to attend to in the meantime."


    Benedict was somewhat puzzled. "What does your matter have to do with Quincy''s return?" However, as soon as he thought about Callista loosening up, he quickly added, "All right, I''ll have her back in three months."


    At that moment, Yelena was also pondering, Why three months?


    If Callista had known their thoughts, she might have answered them.


    It was because, regardless of Sterling''s circumstances, she had lost interest in waiting any longer. In three months, with the evidence in Kallum''s hands, the money she had, and Sterling''s state of overwhelming debt, it was impossible for anyone to assist him. Three months was more than enough time for her to ruin him.


    After exchanging a few more words, Callista was ready to leave. For her, the Stafford residence no longer felt like home. Her visits felt more like she was a guest. As she stepped out, she nced back at the magnificent mansion in front of her and spoke to Benedict. "Yelena and Sterling are somewhat connected. If Yelena invites you to a banquet, don''t go."Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Since Callista couldn''t quite grasp what was going on with Sterling at the moment, she decided to bring it up again.


    Benedict found it hard to believe. "How could Yelena possibly be familiar with the Wolford family?" If Yelena had the ability to ingratiate herself with a high-status family like the Wolfords, she would never have married him in the first ce.


    Callista knew all too well how stubborn Benedict could be. Without concrete evidence, he would never believe her. Moreover, ignorance was bliss. Thus, in the end, Callista chose not to say anything at all.


    Before long, the day arrived for the Wolford family to host their banquet.


    On the day of the banquet, a manor


    in the suburbs was eerily quiet. Had Sterling''s banquet been in


    Summerbank, beyond the reach


    the main authority, many would


    have attended it. However, the


    banquet was held at Horington, the Fairchild family''s home turf. Only those wishing to offend the Fairchild family would dare to attend. It was obvious to everyone that the two families were at odds.


    Before noon, Sterling never imagined he would face a situation where no one would attend his banquet. After all, even with a poor reputation, it was impossible for him not to have a single friend. However, those who Sterling considered his "friends" were either out of town or too busy. That made him fully realize that he had be a target of public


    criticism.


    For Sterling, who was already on the brink of madness, that was a brutal p in the face. The words that followed from Keith delivered a fatal blow.


    After meticulously grooming himself, Sterling sat alone in the middle of a spacious hall that could amodate a hundred people, asking Keith with an odd expression. "The old geezer secretly got in touch with Yelena?"


    Keith was trembling. He hadn''t anticipated that no guests woulde. Sterling''s mood had been quite erratictely, so he was afraid that Sterling might vent his anger on him.


    Keith replied with a shaky voice, "Yes, contact was made, but no one knows exactly what they said "


    "So, once I''m deemed no longer


    useful, I''m just casually discarded? And then he remembered that unwanted daughter he initially disregarded?" Sterling smirked, his voice even more chilling. "He didn''t even consider who got me into this mess with Callista. If it weren''t for his old me and her stupid daughter, would I have crossed Callista? Would I have ended up


    where I am today? Now that I''m no longer of use, this is how he treats me. How wonderful. Truly wonderful."

 Chapter 216 Disown Him

    His eyes revealed a touch of madness, what he was thinking at that moment, perhaps only he himself knew.


    He was already driven to his wit''s end. Ever since he returned from his overseas trip, his phone had been ringing incessantly. Prior to his departure to Corleon, he had made a promise that he would bring back a significant amount of funds to fill the void. But now, he had nothing to show for it, and naturally, people were not pleased.


    From the outset, he had incurred massive losses due to recklessnd purchases and spending habits. Then, the Fairchild family intervened, leading to repeated defeats. The chronic shortage of funds had forced him into the precarious partnership with Uriah. Now, he was left vulnerable, with incriminating evidence held by others, constantly suppressed by the Fairchilds.


    One could argue that he was already ruined. Unless Harvey dipped into his own pockets to cover the shortfall, which was no small sum. Knowing Harvey''s disposition, he was more likely to cut his losses, abandon the disgraced individual, and choose a new sessor to start afresh.


    Sure enough, Harvey''s call came through.


    "Dad?"


    "Don''t call me Dad!" Harvey snapped, his tone dripping with disdain. "You promised you''d make money after heading to Corleon. But instead, you returned empty-handed and started avoiding me! And now you''re nning to throw a party? It seems your mind isn''t as sharp as it used to be. The Wolford family doesn''t need an heir who isn''t clear-headed. So, don''t call me ''father'' anymore. If you have nowhere else to go, you can still work as a manager in thepany. I''ve already been more than fair to you, so don''t use me of being heartless." Sterling was taken aback for a moment, then scoffed. He sure knows how to sweet-talk his way through. He wants to kick me aside, yet still finds me useful. He''s keeping me around for further exploitation, squeezing me dry, and even using me to pave the way for Quincy. His expression grew terribly gloomy, and his fingers gripping the phone had started to turn pale.


    Now, he had contracted the K Virus, not knowing when his condition would deteriorate and lead to his death. Besides, Harvey was the one responsible for putting him in such a dire situation. At such a time, Harvey had the audacity to abandon him, to sever ties and pursue an unreliable and incapable woman. The humiliation was indeed timely!


    Suddenly, Sterling burst intoughter. He said, "Harvey... why don''t you just drop dead?"


    Harvey had initially been waiting for Sterling to grovel, just as he had done in the past. However, upon hearing such words, his eyes widened in shock.


    "Y-You dare speak to me like this..."


    "Why wouldn''t I dare? All these years, I''ve been working like a dog for you, and this is how you repay me? Fine, if you won''t let me live peacefully, then I''ll make sure you have no lineage to carry on!"


    With that, Sterling forcefully hung up the phone!


    At that moment, his expression turned wild, frightening his butler, Keith, significantly. Under Keith''s somewhat terrified gaze, Sterling made a phone call and uttered chilling words.


    "It''s me. The game is over now. Take Quincy, tie her up, and have your fun. Then, send me the video. When I give the order to kill her, make sure it isn''t too easy for her."


    After hanging up, Sterling stared nkly at Keith for a long while. The butler''s legs trembled in fear. Realizing that Sterling was actually nning to harm Harvey''s only daughter, Keith felt an overwhelming urge to expose the plot.


    Just moments ago, he had heard Harvey''s voice dering Sterling was no longer the heir to the Wolford family. So, he...


    "What''s on your mind?" Sterling''s voice was haunting. Although seated, he exuded a menacing aura, making Keith feel as though Sterling might pounce and shatter him into pieces at any moment.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Were you... thinking of betraying me?"


    "No, no, no! I wouldn''t dare! Mr. Wolford, I absolutely didn''t have such thoughts!" Keith''s heart skipped & beat as he practically blurted out the words, on the verge of kneeling. Sterling simply chuckled without a word, leaving a chilling silence hanging in the air,


    "Keep the meals warm; the banquet must go on. If they don''t show up by noon, we''ll switch it to a dinner party instead."


    The butler broke out in a cold sweat, dreading the possibility that no one might show up for the dinner party either.


    Despite his worries, he swiftly agreed with a smooth reply and quickly backed away.


    Sterling chuckled coldly. "So, you all want to drive me to my death? Then none of you should live either!"


    After receiving the video of Quincy, he excitedly made a call to Yelena.


    "Listen, there''s something you need to do if you don''t want your daughter to die..."


    Once he had finished the call, he felt much more at ease. However, at that moment, a friend from the police station phoned him.


    "Mr. Wolford, didn''t you strike a deal with Uriah a year ago?" The other party got straight to the point, their tone anxious.


    A chill ran down Sterling''s spine as he admitted outright. "Yes..."


    There was a long silence before his


    friend said, "You need to run! I''ve heard that evidence of your arms smuggling and war profiteering has been submitted to the higher-ups. Anyone involved with Uriah right now is in deep trouble. It''s better if you leave first, let your father clean up the mess, andy low for a few years."


    The color gradually drained from Sterling''s face, his smile fading. The onught of bad news felt like the final straw that broke the camel''s back, leaving him with a suffocating sensation.


    Would Harvey help him clean up the


    mess? That wasughable. He could already picture it, once things went south, that scoundrel would conveniently forget all the benefits he''d reaped, push all the me onto him, and wash his hands clean of the whole affair.

 Chapter 217 Blackmail Her

    Could it be that he was destined to die? Even if he survived the K Virus, was he destined to never escape?


    "How much time do I have left?" Sterling''s voice was chillingly calm. The other party found it a bit odd, but responded nheless.


    "Two hours. From what I know, once the police receive the arrest warrant, they''lle for you..."


    "I''ll give you the three vis I own in the capital, in return for a favor from you."


    The other party initially wanted to refuse. After all, he had already returned his favor by leaking such information to him. However, the thought of the value of the three vis in the capital made him unable to resist the temptation.


    He stated inly, "If it''s too difficult... I''m afraid I might not be able to fulfill it with my current ranking."


    "It''s not difficult." Suddenly, Sterling revealed a smile, as if a heavy burden had been lifted. The terrifying gloom that had once dominated his face vanished in an instant.


    "All I need from you is to dy the arrest warrant a bit, preferably until after eight tonight."


    "You''re thinking of escaping?" his friend guessed.


    Sterling chuckled lightly. "Yeah... I want to escape." But there was nowhere to escape to.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Meanwhile, Calista was resting at noon. The warm sunlight filtered in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting her in anguid elegance reminiscent of a graceful cat.


    After making some calls to a few political figures, Kallum sought her out, ready to share some good news.


    "Darling, I''ming!"


    Despite the intense pain coursing through his body, he tenderly embraced Calista as he climbed into bed, pulling her into his arms. Only then did he let out a satisfied sigh. If one could overlook the bead of cold sweat trickling down his forehead, the scene would truly be picturesque.


    He felt an increasing inability to control his body, a sensation that filled him with fear, yet also a chilling calmness. If one day he were to wake up and find himself paralyzed, he might not even be surprised. Feeling a bit ufortable, Calista turned around, positioning her back toward Kallum.


    He was easy to please and held her from behind, enveloping herpletely within his embrace, as though their lives were intertwined.


    "Callie, is there any ce in particr you''d like to visit?" he asked, worried that he might be confined to a wheelchair in the future. If he had the chance, he wanted to take her out while he was still able to walk. Calista, annoyed by his antics, finally grumbled in response, "Besides research, I''m not going anywhere!"


    She was a research fanatic, a fact well known to Kallum. She seemed tock the usual pleasures of a neen-year-old girl, leading a monotonous life. Yet, it was this very monotony that allowed her to constantly be by his side. Without her, he was certain he wouldn''t have been able to maintain his optimism and hope over the past year.


    He fell silent for a moment, then spoke again with a burst of enthusiasm. "By the way, after today, you won''t see Sterling anymore. There will be no third oue other than him rotting in jail or dying. Are you happy about that?"


    Atst, Calista opened her eyes.


    "Oh? It''s quite a pity that I couldn''t kill him with my own hands. But this kind of ending... it''s not bad either. It saves us from any furtherplications," Calista said.


    Just then, her phone rang. She furrowed her brows, reached for it, and pressed the answer button.


    "What''s wrong?" The number belonged to Benedict. She wondered why he was calling.


    "Calista..." To her surprise, the voice on the other end was Sterling''s. His tone was calm, almost eerily so.


    "Sterling?"


    Calista instantly sat up.


    "Did you kidnap my father?"


    "Heheh..." Sterling chuckled softly. "I sincerely invited you to the banquet, but you didn''t show up. Left with no choice, I had to resort to this."


    "What do you want?" Calista''s face turned icy, her star-like eyes sparking with a chilling light, creating an unweing aura.


    "What do I want from you... I want you to attend the party. To be honest, I knew I''d be taken away by the police today. So, before that happens, I want to have onest moment of glory." Kallum and Calista exchanged a nce before she replied, "What if I don''te?"


    Sterling''s voice remained remarkablyposed. "If you don''te, I''ll take someone down with me before I die. Even though he seems innocent and oblivious to everything, pitifully naive." "Enough," Calista frowned. "I can go, but how do I ensure my father''s safety?"


    "Don''t worry," he assured. "The moment you show up, I''ll set Benedict free in front of everyone. However you''ll have to bring some people along. The people of Horington are really timid; none of them dare toe here because they''re afraid of the Fairchild family.


    It truly saddens me."


    Calista arched an eyebrow. "So, you''re saying that only if I call the guests over will you release my father? I''m sorry, but I can''t do that. What if something happens to them if I send them over?"


    Sterling was incredibly persuasive.


    "All right, here''s the deal," he


    proposed. "Just bring along Kallum As long as he shows up, I''m sure those petty people will flock to my banquet like bees to honey. Let''s settle on this then-six in the


    evening, no excuses for not showing


    up."


    With that, he hung up the phone.


    ????


    Calista stared at her phone for a long while, deep in thought. "I can''t help but find Sterling''s actions peculiar. Knowing he is to be arrested today, why would he still insist on hosting a banquet? Could it be that he''s given up on life, hoping to strike me down before his end?"


    Kallum snorted. "You''d better not go. I''ll send someone to save your father. He''ll be fine."

 Chapter 218 At The Banquet

    Calista shook her head. "Sterling clearly isn''t in his right mind right now. Even if your men are highly skilled, I fear they wouldn''t be able to save my father before Sterling acts. Now, we might as well go and see for ourselves. I''m quite curious about how he managed to return from Corleon!"


    She paused for a moment, turning her gaze toward Kallum. "I''m sorry for dragging you into this."


    Kallum wasn''t fit enough to be out and about given his current circumstances, which was why Calista felt apologetic.


    With a raised eyebrow and a smug smile, Kallum suggested, "If you''re truly sorry, how about giving me a kiss?"N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Calista chuckled, but deep down, she was still filled with worry. In this life, though she never nned on being a good daughter, she didn''t want Benedict to just die like that. His previous life had been filled with enough sorrow. This life, he deserved a better ending. "Don''t worry." Seeing her downcast, Kallumforted her, his tone turning dangerous. "It''s good to corner him, so he can''t escape. Rest assured, after tonight, there won''t be anyone named Sterling in this world anymore. Your father will be safe." That night, at Sterling''s suburban vi.


    A procession of luxury cars rolled in one after the other. As the upants stepped out, they exchanged puzzled nces, clueless about what was happening.


    Originally, they had decided not to associate with Sterling. However, in the afternoon, Sterling unexpectedly called them, dering his intention to reconcile with Kallum. He even assured them that Kallum would definitelye that evening.


    Carrying this peculiar sentiment, they all arrived without prior arrangement. In the world of business, there are no eternal friends, only eternal interests. Even if the Wolfords and the Fairchilds had made amends, it wouldn''t be anything out of the ordinary. They had been invited over and over again, with insistence that they muste. This made their feelings somewhat delicate.


    Upon entering, the atmosphere felt strange and unsettling. The food had clearly been reheated, only to be left to cool down again. The grand hall was devoid of any servants, with only Sterling standing at the entrance to wee them. He then ushered them in, encouraging them to start eating.


    There was no music, no ambiance. Though called a banquet, it felt eerily like a funeral. The guests murmured in hushed groups, finding it all very peculiar.


    At that moment, a servant finally came in.


    "Hey, hold on a minute!" A middle-aged man called out to the butler, his questionced with confusion. "Where are the servants? The musicians? Is this how the Wolford family throws a party?"


    The butler''s face was a frightening shade of pale. He cast a panicked nce at the man, hastily dropped what he was holding, and scurried away,pletely ignoring his surroundings.


    At that moment, Calista and Kallum arrived.


    Kallum gazed at the Wolford family''s mansion, lost in thought. "Sterling has some munitions with him," he mused. "If he''s truly desperate, tonight''s banquet will certainly be more than meets the eye."


    "I''ll have people surround the ce shortly, just in case he''s set up a sniper or is nning to escape. Once you go in, try to stand near the window. I''ll have someone constantly checking to see if he''sid any other traps."


    Kallum, regardless of the details, took the time to remind Calista thoroughly. It was as if he was sending a child off to take the college entrance exams, covering all bases.


    Internally rolling her eyes, Calista reached out and grabbed his hand.


    "Anyway, as long as I have you, I''m not afraid of anything that might happen."


    Kallum''s eyes lit up at that moment; he found her dependency on him extremely gratifying.


    By the time they arrived, the hall was already bustling with people. Seeing that Kallum really did show up, everyone finally breathed a sigh of relief. Their main concern was that they had been tricked by Sterling intoing. If, by any chance, Kallum had not made peace with Sterling and misunderstood that they were siding with Sterling, things could have turned sour.


    However, both Kallum and Calista had cold expressions. Upon entering, Calista swept her surroundings before directing her statement at Sterling, who hade forward to greet them. "I''m here, where''s my dad?"


    With just one statement, a shock rippled through the crowd! Judging by the demeanor, it seemed the Fairchild family hadn''te for the banquet, but for revenge! The reason being, Sterling had captured Calista''s father!


    Sterling''s smile didn''t falter in the slightest. With a p of his hands, someone brought Benedict out. Benedict didn''t seem to have suffered much, just a bit shocked and dazed. Upon seeing Calista, he seemed to have found his anchor as he moved toward her. "Hold on." Kallum stepped forward to interrupt. His right-hand man immediately moved from behind him to escort Benedict aside. He needed to conduct a thorough check first; only if there were no issues would Benedict be allowed to approach Calista.


    Seeing how cautious Kallum was, a glint of light shed in Sterling''s eyes.


    After a thorough examination, Ryder gave Kallum a nod of approval. Only then did Kallum let out a grunt.


    "Let''s go."


    With that, he grabbed Calista arms, intending to leave.


    "Hold on." All of a sudden, Sterling spoke up, smiling at Calista, "I heard Ms. Calista recently visited Corleon, and even acquired the ''legacy'' of Uriah. With so many people here today, don''t you n to announce this good news?" Upon hearing this, everyone was secretly taken aback!


    Uriah''s status as a political figure


    meant that any association with him


    could spell disaster for those


    involved. Yet, when Kallum seized Uriah''s possessions, not a whisper of protest arose. This was attributed to Kallum''s esteemed position and outstanding performance in Lostaria; the nation conveniently overlooked the transgression, turning a blind eye to the matter.


    However, the situation was vastly


    different for Calista. Entangling herself with Uriah would prove to be a formidable challenge to


    disentangle from. Should she ept anything from Uriah, she''d find


    herself obliged to reciprocate in kind, furtherplicating matters.

 Chapter 219 Being A Clown

    Noticing the crowd''s gaze on her, Calista felt a sense of bewilderment. Could it be that Sterling had obtained some sort of evidence and, in the face of death, wished to drag her down with him, hence the reason for this banquet?


    But what difference would his evidence make? Even if she were to hand the money over, it wouldn''t benefit him. Regardless of the worst oue, she would remain unscathed. So, what was Sterling''s real intention? She scoffed, "I have no idea what you''re talking about. Uriah? I''ve never even heard of his name."


    Inside the banquet hall, Calista and Sterling confronted each other, their auras starkly contrasting. One emanated icy reserve, while the other exuded a sinister and mysterious presence.


    Sterling''s lips curled into a sardonic smile. "Let''s dispense with the pleasantries. I once coborated with Uriah, supplying him with a considerable arsenal. Yet, in an hour''s time, the police will arrive to apprehend me. I can''t help but feel aggrieved. I worked alongside Uriah, only to face arrest now. Meanwhile, there are others who engaged in dealings with him, even pocketed a hefty sum from his coffers. Why haven''t their misdeeds been brought to light?"


    The insinuations in Sterling''s words twisted Calista''s expression sour. "Me? Coborating with Uriah? If it weren''t for your involvement, orchestrating my capture by Uriah, I''d never have crossed paths with him. Or are you implying that since you''re headed for a jail cell, this is your final act of defiance before confinement, dragging innocent bystanders into your downfall?"


    Calista paused, a wry smile dancing on her lips. "Yes, the auction incident was a huge blow to your finances, but surely, you don''t hold such a grudge?"


    The doubts sown in the crowd''s minds lessened significantly. Before her induction into the Fairchild family, Calista was just an ordinary girl from a respectable lineage. How could she possibly be connected to Uriah? Conversely, Sterling bore a palpable grudge against Calista. Her previous deception, tricking Sterling into acquiring worthlessnd, still stung. That night, Sterling seethed with fury, nearly bursting a vein.


    Witnessing Calista''s effortless escape from his grasp left him dumbfounded. That idiot Quincy, without external aid, would have crumbled under Calista''s cunning within three moves.


    "So, you''re admitting to having met Uriah?"


    Sterling''s gaze swept the assembly, his voice projecting. "Just returned from Corleon myself. Went there on a hunch that Uriah had stashed something. It took some digging, but guess who I stumbled upon at Uriah''s hiding spot?"


    He pointed at Calista, a light chuckle


    escaping him. "Caught Calista red-handed, masquerading as a medical aide for a special support team. Later, Kallum made a hefty


    purchase of goods from CorleContent provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Sure, Corleon boasts a robust underground market, and I


    acknowledge Kallum''s possession ofitems confiscated from Uriah a year ago. But when I uncovered the hidden cache, it was gone. Kallum then made a special trip to peddle what he''d acquired a year prior. It wasn''t hard to deduce his intention to bury a secret, was it?"


    Sterling shook his head, sighing theatrically. "Even Uriah couldn''t resist the allure of a beautiful woman. Initially, I ordered for your demise, yet not only did you survive, you unearthed a ndestine affair. Who would buy that there''s no connection between you two?" His words provoked murmurs among the attendees, spective nces darting at Calista. Sterling''s insinuations painted a picture of Calista having received something substantial from Uriah, their association seemingly more than casual. "Are you quite finished?"


    Calista restrained Kallum''s urge to intervene, casting an indifferent gaze at Sterling.


    "Admittedly, you spin quite the tale. However, my venture to Corleon was solely driven by global concerns, contributing modestly to societal welfare. If you knew anything about me, you''d understand my


    recognition as a prodigious figure in medical research! I delved into


    studying the K Virus, joining a


    specialized research team, risking


    interaction with K Virus patients. It''s


    disheartening to see my altruism


    twisted."


    She paused, her tone measured. "Kallum''s return for me stemmed from concern over my safety in a perilous locale. Recognizing Corleon as a lucrative trading hub, he seized the chance to offload his wares amassed during his visit. Selling Uriah''s wares locally would prove cumbersome."


    A trace of mockery gleamed in her


    eyes. "Where did you hear about Uriah''s mythical treasure? Your assumption that Kaiser''s sale of numerous items equated to your quarry was rather hasty." She continued, dismantling Sterling''s ims one by one. "Moreover, the existence of this treasure has only ever been your assertion. Is this vendetta because I once cost you a considerable sum? Are you attempting to besmirch my connection with Uriah, hoping to extort this so-called ''treasure'' that may not even exist? Quite cunning of you, exploiting Uriah, a man both sensitive and devoid of concrete evidence due to his demise."


    Calista''s eloquence was masterful, articting every facet with rity, elucidating all dubious implications. Her demeanor remainedposed, her aura detached. Her gaze upon Sterling was akin to observing a mere jester.


    Sterling''sughter dwindled, incredulity etched onto his features. It was hard to fathom that a year prior, Calista was a timid recluse. Their initial encounter bore an opportunity for Sterling to throttle her and seize her USB drive. Yet now, she bared her ws and fangs, effortlessly ensnaring his lifeline.


    Indeed, he should have dealt with her decisively from the outset.

 Chapter 220 Planted A Bomb

    "Why should I listen to someone who''s about to be locked up in jail, acting like a rabid dog, biting at anyone in sight?"


    Kallum frowned, his expression revealing his discontent. "Callie, let''s go," he said. "Let him say whatever he wants. Anyone who would believe him is probably as crazy as he is." Suppressing the odd sensation, Calista gave a slight nod.


    Despite her efforts, she still couldn''t figure out how Sterling had managed to dodge a bullet and avoid infection.


    Before she arrived, she had considered the possibility that Sterling might be, like her, an asymptomatic carrier. But observing his demeanor, she dismissed that possibility due to theck of physical difort,


    However, since Sterling was going to jail anyway, any questions she had could be askedter. It was best not to linger in this ce for too long.


    "You''re leaving?" Sterling finally broke the silence, smiling as a hint of madness shed in his eyes.


    "I''ve nted a bomb here. If you take another step, we''re all going to die together. You''ve pushed me this far, I don''t even want to live anymore!"


    His words sent shockwaves through the crowd! A bomb? Did Sterling actually intend to kill them all?


    "Quiet!" Sterling''s hand slid over a remote control. "Make another noise, and I''ll press it!"


    His expression didn''t seem feigned, he genuinely wanted to take everyone down with him!


    Calista looked at Kallum with a stern expression. However, Kallum was well-prepared for all of this. The people he had arranged beforehand had already infiltrated the Wolford residence. Even if there were explosives, dismantling them was only a matter of time. Hence, both of them remainedposed.


    Upon seeing that Kallum remained silent, everyone else also calmed down. However, they were still filled with a mix of fear and anger!


    "Sterling! Have you lost your mind? We trusted you. That''s why we came. How could you even think of blowing us up?"


    "How could you do such a horrifying thing? My child is still at home waiting for me..."


    "Drop the remote now! If you don''t want to end up in jail, we''re all friends here, we can find a way out for you. You don''t have to go down this path alone."


    "Jerk! You''ll go to hell for doing this!"


    Upon hearing the surrounding persuasions and insults, Sterlingughed in triumph. Everyone was focused on him, everyone despised him, yet they were powerless against him. At that moment, he was the man in charge! These people were nothing but ants to him! He toyed with the remote control. "It seems you are truly courting death."


    The deep, resonating voice of Sterling finally managed to calm them all down. Some tried to subtly edge toward the entrance, only to find that all the doors and windows of the hall had been securely locked!


    "What do you want?" Calista asked calmly. Having experienced death once, she feared nothing. Of course, she also valued her life more than anyone else.


    "What do I want? I want money...


    The money you took was supposed to be mine! If I had it, I wouldn''t have had to go to prison. Harvey, that b*stard, wouldn''t have abandoned me, and my capital flow could have been restored. All of this... you''ve ruined it! You b*tch!"


    As Sterling continued to speak, his gaze grew increasingly fierce. Each word he uttered seemed to be squeezed out from between his teeth! Calista chuckled lightly. "You look quite pitiful. Are you saying all this in hopes of gaining my sympathy?"


    A cold glint surfaced in her eyes as


    she scoffed. "What a pity. In my view, you are no different from Harvey. If he once favored you, it just means that you both share the same nature. Discarding something when it''s no longer valuable, isn''t that a tactic you''re quite familiar with? Or is it that you''re the one being discarded now, and you can''t bear the humiliation?"


    "Calista, are you deliberately provoking me?" His voice wasced with frustration. "Do you think what I''m holding is a toy? If they die, it''s on you!"


    Sterling seized the chance to cast shade on Calista.


    Calista scoffed coldly. "Pleading for mercy from a madman is as ludicrous as expecting a butcher toy down his cleaver. Even if it means death, I won''t beg you, not even a single word."


    Upon hearing this, Sterling revealed a peculiar expression. He held the remote, silent for a long while, his gaze swept over Calista and then over Kallum. Finally, he abruptly gestured toward Calista with a twisted smile. "How about this? If youe over, I''ll hand you the remote. I know Kallum''s men are still trying to locate the bomb, but they''ll need time. All you need to do ise over right now, and I''ll give you the remote." Upon seeing Kallum reach out to grab Calista, Sterling''s expression darkened.


    "If you don''te over by the count of three, I''ll detonate the explosives! One!"


    Everyone was intently looking at Calista, hoping she would step in and prevent Sterling from losing his mind any further!


    That was people''s true nature. For the sake of their own safety, their sense of morality tends to mysteriously vanish.


    Kallum tightly grasped Calista''s hand. "Don''t go. Even if there''s an explosion, we''ll be fine."


    When he entered, he had already conducted a scan with his device. If there had been a significant amount of explosive''s, he would have


    detected it prior to his entry.


    However, the rm did not


    sound,


    indicating that the amount of explosives Sterling had nted was minimal, so minimal that it was


    undetectable. Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    The explosive''s st wasn''t going to be that powerful, at least not enough to endanger everyone in the banquet hall.


    Moreover, they had all donned bulletproof vests.


    However, things would be different if Calista were to go near Sterling. What if Sterling had strapped the explosives to himself with the intention to perish with Callie? Seeing that Calista was hesitant, Sterling removed his coat.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 221 The Special Infected

    "Don''t worry," he reassured. "I''m not carrying anything on me, not even a gun. Come here, I just want to talk."


    His appearance at that moment was strikingly simr to the first time they met, when he had an air of assured victory about him. He curled his lips into a smile and spoke. "Didn''t you say you were fascinated by the K Virus? Don''t you want to know how I managed to pass through thatb without getting infected?"


    A glimmer sparked in Calista''s eyes. Seeing that Sterling didn''t appear to be hiding anything, she began to hesitate.


    "Two."


    Seeing that Calista wanted to go, Kallum held on to her tightly. He was certain that Sterling had no good intentions, and he couldn''t allow Calista to take risks under his watch.


    Meanwhile, Sterling was already running out of patience.


    "Three!"


    "I''ming over."


    Calista nced back at Kallum. Seeing that he was still holding on to her, she tiptoed and whispered into his ear.


    "The reason I returned, besides my father, was primarily to understand why he wasn''t infected. Perhaps he is the key to conquering the virus? Your body is deteriorating by the day, don''t think I''m unaware of it. I absolutely must go!"


    Kallum felt as if his heart was being squeezed, his eyes widening in shock.


    Calista managed to break free from his grasp. Instinctively, he reached out to grab Calista''s clothes but eventually let go.


    Because Calista was ring at him, she really had to go!


    Kallum tasted bitterness in his mouth, surprised that despite his seamless facade, Calista had still seen through him. Moreover, she was willing to take risks for him without a hint of hesitation. With that thought in mind, an overwhelming sweetness filled his heart. His Callie, always so stubborn yet soft-hearted, never vocalizing her intentions, yet acting on them all the same.


    Kallum struggled to describe his emotions at that moment. In the end, he could only utter two words.


    "Be careful."


    His gaze hardened, making a silent vow. No matter what, he would not let Calista get hurt, even if it cost him his life! Calista nodded, moving toward Sterling. In a sh, a silver needle as thin as a hair strand appeared at her fingertips. Meanwhile, Sterling''s blood was boiling!


    His gaze lingered on Calista''s neck with a certain intensity. Her scent will surely be far more enticing than the doctor''s that day.


    It certainly will be!


    Choosing Calista over Kallum had indeed given Sterling pause. He knew full well that Kallum''s skills far surpassed his own by a significant margin. However, Calista was a different matter. While she possessed some skills, he had managed to subdue her from their very first encounter, and he believed he could still do so.


    Before his death, he felt it was worth it to bring down an enemy with him!


    Seeing Sterling continuously raising his hand, Calista felt somewhat reassured even though she was aware of his formidable martial arts skills.


    "I''m here, hand me the remote."


    Sterling held the remote, but he didn''t hand it over to her right away. Instead, he smiled and said, "Before I give this to you, I want to tell you a secret about the K Virus. Are you interested?"


    Calista''s heart skipped a beat, her gaze burning intensely as she stared at him. When their eyes met, it felt as if des and arrows were shing in battle.


    "Do tell."


    Calista maintained aposed


    tone, even though her heart was moring to uncover the secret.


    However, she was dealing with an et


    madman, a person who had lost all reason, and she couldn''t afford to show even a hint of fear!


    "Come a bit closer, this is a massive secret. Solve this century''s toughest problem because of it, and you''ll be swimming in endless fame and wealth." Sterling tempted her with a smile.


    Calista took another step forward, reducing the distance between them to less than half a meter. Despite her smile, every muscle in her body was tensed up.


    The hall fell into a tense silence as Calista approached the imposing figure. Hearts raced, and the air grew heavy with anticipation.


    "Are you ready to talk?" Calista''s voice carried a hint of amusement, her gaze sharp and unwavering. Though she knew she was no match for him physically, she remainedposed, assessing every move.


    "All right, I''ll tell you."


    Sterling took a step forward, drawing closer to Calista. In response, Kallum also advanced, his gaze fixed on Sterling, brimming with hostility.


    He then watched as Sterling brought his lips to Calista''s ears.


    "The reason I made it back alive..." As Sterling leaned in to whisper into Calista''s ear, a sense of intimacy formed between them, belying the underlying tension.


    "It was because..."? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Sterling''s smiling face suddenly twisted into one of extreme resentment.


    "It''s because I''m a special infected!"


    Calista''s pupils contracted, wanting to retreat. However, Sterling had already pressed the remote in his hand. An explosion sounded - it turned out that the five packages of explosives he had nted had been disarmed by Kallum''s men, with only one remaining behind the targe chandelier on the ceiling!


    The ceiling burst open, and the crystal chandelier came crashing down fiercely!


    The dining halt was filled with shrieks of terror. Amidst the chaos, Calista managed to kick Sterling away. However, Sterling lunged at her once more, unleashing a


    terrifying burst of strength due to his


    near-death state.


    Just as he opened his mouth, his teeth were about to sink into Calista''s neck! Calista, her hands and feet restrained, could only watch helplessly as he closed in on her.

 Chapter 222 Got Infected

    The feeling was eerily simr to her past life, when she was beaten to the point of helplessness, forced to watch Sterling inject her with the virus without any means to resist!


    Sterling''s face contorted, resembling a wild beast as he bit down! But the anticipated pain never came. Calista opened her eyes, only to discover that the hand Sterling had bitten into was actually Kallum''s! Kallum could have rescued her immediately. However, at the moment of the explosion, his legs suddenly gave way, almost causing him to stumble. That was why Calista ended up in such a perilous situation!


    Upon seeing Sterling crazily trying to bite Calista, without a second thought, Kallum blocked him with his left hand. With his right hand, he threw a fierce punch, causing Sterling''s head to jerk to the side, spitting out a mouthful of blood. Sterling finally loosened his grip on Calista''s hand. Kallum kicked him over with one swift move, then scooped Calista into his arms!


    After holding her for a moment, he meticulously examined Calista from head to toe. His injured, bleeding left hand instinctively kept its distance from her as he continuously asked questions.


    "Were you hurt? Are you okay? Did you get injured?"


    Calista, however, was staring nkly at his injured hand.


    Upon seeing that she seemed unharmed, Kallum casually waved his hand, chuckling with a hint of self-deprecation. "I''m fine, l-I''ve already been through the worst. Now, it''s his turn."


    After being kicked away, Sterling was immediately restrained by Kallum''s men.


    Upon spotting a trace of Kallum''s blood on Sterling''s lips, Ryder quickly covered Sterling''s mouth, hoping to prevent him from suspecting anything when he would inevitably develop a feverter.


    Though panic briefly gripped the crowd at the shattered ceiling, Kallum''s team efficiently restored order, calming the frayed nerves of the guests.


    "Everyone, please stay calm! The bomb hidden beneath the load-bearing pir has been disarmed, your safety is no longer at risk."


    Ryder''s reassuring words brought a semnce of calm to the shaken guests, yet beneath the surface, they harbored silent regret. Had they known the extent of Sterling''s madness, they wouldn''t have risked attending. His willingness to drag others down in his downfall was truly unsettling, marking him as a dangerous individual unlike any they had encountered before.


    The butler, hiding in the shadows, caught sight of Kallum''s injured hand. Suddenly, he realized this was a golden opportunity to prove his worth!N?velDrama.Org content.


    As soon as he learned of Sterling''s infection with the K Virus, a wave of despair washed over him. The Wolford residence, once bustling with activity, nowy deserted as everyone fled in fear. Despite their silence out of fear for Sterling''s authority, he knew that rumors would inevitably begin circting by tomorrow.


    The butler had initially wanted to flee, but Sterling had used his daughter as leverage, leaving him no choice but to stay. Now, with Sterling captured and no chance of turning the tables, if he still wanted to maintain his position in the Wolford family, or seek favor from Harvey, this would be a golden opportunity!


    And so, he rushed out, shouting loudly.


    "Stay away from Sterling, he''s infected with the K Virus!"


    With a single statement from the butler, the previously calm hall descended into greater chaos than before!


    "What? How could he have contracted the K Virus? There''s no way the K Virus is in our country!"


    "Have you all forgotten? H-He just returned from Corleon!"


    "How could he possibly have gotten through customs? This is impossible!"


    Such questions left everyone in a state of shock, no wonder Sterling was acting so recklessly, he was already on the brink of death!


    Many people who had eaten here felt a strong urge to vomit.


    "This lunatic wouldn''t have mixed his blood into the food and drink, would he..."


    Someone voiced their suspicion, and the faces of many who had already partaken in the food and drink changed instantly. They wished they could immediately spit it out!


    After the bomb threat was neutralized, they found themselves plunged into an even more terrifying crisis! It seemed as if even the air in this ce was poisonous! "Mr. Kallum has been bitten..."


    Suddenly, someone spoke up and, for some reason, the previously noisy environment fell into an unexined silence.


    "Mr. Kallum... has been bitten by Sterling..."


    A girl clutching a chic handbag pointed to the bleeding left hand of Kallum, her face pale. "Kallum has been bitten!" she eximed.


    Everyone calmed down, their faces


    reflecting a variety of emotions. They all understood that if one was bitten and bled, the probability of contracting a disease was as high as ny-nine percent...


    Bound and gagged, Sterling''s face was flushed a deep red. Upon recognizing Kallum as the one he


    had bittenst, he couldn''t Get


    his excitement, despite the


    obstruction in his mouth. He let out


    a muffled roar of exhration and


    struggled ceaselessly under the grip


    of his captor.


    Seeing that his goal had been achieved, the butler''s eyes turned red with excitement. Now, he could go Harvey to im his merit!


    He feigned fear as he said, "What do we do? Mr. Kallum must have caught it! Mr. Wolford has already infected two people since he came back, I didn''t expect even Mr. Kallum to..."


    At this point, no one was concerned


    about the butter''s failure to report


    anymore. Everyone instinctively took


    two steps back, their faces filled


    with fear. It was as if, any second now Kallum would transform into a


    devil a


    pounce on them.


    This must have been the first time Kallum had to confront public ostracism. Back when he was at home, although the experts were afraid, they never dared to show it. However, at that moment, the tant discrimination and fear emanating from those around him made him feel instantly isted. No one would approach him, not a soul.


    But in the next moment, his injured hand was sped by someone else.


    Calista took a step forward, speaking almost in direct contact with his body. "Pretend you have a fever, quick!"

 Chapter 223 Are You Truly Not Afraid

    Just then, it seemed as though Kallum was jolted awake. His gaze toward Calista was fraught withplexity. Almost immediately, he pressed his body close to hers, subtly watching her face for any trace of emotion. A sudden, intense curiosity overtook him-he desperately wanted to know whether Calista was truly devoid of the fear that everyone else harbored against him. "Did he faint?"


    It was only then that the memory resurfaced among them-those infected with the notorious K Virus typically suffered from a rapid onset of high fever. This knowledge caused a collective, though silent, sigh of relief to pass through the group, as none exhibited any fever symptoms.


    Calista, while supporting Kallum''s weight, raised her voice to catch the attention of Gunner and the others. In reality, her words were meant for everyone present.


    "Don''t give up hope," she said, "Quickly, take him back. We still have the antibodies; there''s still that slim one percent chance of survival!"


    Gunner instantly grasped Calista''s subtle attempt at disguising Kallum''s illness. He nodded with urgency and moved swiftly to assist Calista in escorting Kallum away from the scene. Their departure was marked by a rushed urgency, as if the antibody''s administration was a matter of life or death.


    Throughout this ordeal, Calista had been the pir Kallum leaned on. When they found themselves suddenly isted by their peers, she noticed Kallum''s emotional state was precariously unstable. Knowing well that any surge of negative emotions could severely disrupt his recovery, her actions were carefully crafted to provide reassurance.


    Once they were safely inside the car, Calista had Kallum rest his head on herp. Although she was aware that onlookers couldn''t see inside, Calista still whispered a cautious, "Don''t move just yet."


    No sooner had Calista issued her instruction than Kallum stilledpletely. The car sped off, leaving the rest of their group behind in haste.


    The vehicle was partitioned such that only Calista and Kallum''s heavy breathing could be heard within the confined space. At that time, both were engulfed in a whirlwind of emotions.


    Calista had much on her mind-she wanted to reproach Kallum for his reckless attempts at saving her. Given his unique position, anyplications could escte into significant issues!


    Yet, she recognized that such thoughts were unjustified-after all, it was she who had continually pulled him into her own perilous situations.


    ''Don''t worry," Calista said calmly, analyzing their situation, "Once we return, you''ll rest for a month. To the outside world, we''ll announce that you''ve recovered following the antibody treatment. It''s normal to experience a few months of weakness after such a procedure. But after a month, everyone will recognize that you''re not infected."


    As Calista voiced these thoughts, she managed to find a small smile, "Yes," she continued, "as long as you can ''endure'' for a month, they''ll realize your treatment was sessful. Because, so far, no one infected with the K Virus hassted a month."


    Kallum, breaking his silence, voiced a concern, "There are many who wish to see my downfall. They won''t just sit back this month; they''ll keep trying to find ways to attack."


    Calista''s fingers gentlybed through his hair.


    "I''ll always be there to protect you," she dered with a serious tone.


    Though her words might sound naive to outsiders-the ones after Kallum were not just ordinary foes-their machinations were far beyond what one might expect a neen-year-old to handle.


    Nheless, Kallum believed her. He tilted his head to meet her gaze, his feelings for her deepening.


    "So you''re saying you''ll always be with me..." His voice carried a subtle undertone as he slightly curled his lips. "Aren''t you afraid of me at all? I mean, the reactions of the people today were typical, yet you''ve never shown any fear. Are you really not afraid of me?" Calista looked down at Kallum, puzzled by his question.


    She understood his feelings might have been provoked by the events of the day, but what did that have to do with her? She was the one he had saved twice from the peril of the K Virus, all due to his involvement. What reason did she have to fear or distance herself from him? Moreover, if an average person were to contract the K Virus through someone else''s actions, they would likely feel immense resentment toward that individual during their suffering. They might even believe that their only scey in dragging that person down with them.


    Yet, Kallum had never exhibited such bitterness. He had consistently shown kindness toward her, never once ming her for his condition. So why would he think she would fear him and pull away?


    Unable to fathom his feelings, Shang Qing impulsively nted a kiss on him. In such a situation, nothing was moreforting than this intimate touch.


    She lowered her gaze, meeting


    Kallum''s somewhat scrutinizing eyes. Without hesitation, she deepened the kiss gradually. Their breaths mingled, a silent yearning filled the space between them. The atmosphere thickened with a palpable tension, as if they were on the brink of crossing an unspoken boundary... N?velDrama.Org content.


    Kallum''s doubts about her feelings vanishedpletely. Callie was clearly not afraid of him, not in the slightest. She didn''t just kiss him out of guilt or to cate him¡ªher kisses were imbued with a passion that seemed to contradict her outward calmness, even a simple peck was charged with the warmth and excitement capable of melting hearts.


    Suddenly, Kallum acted on impulse, flipping Calista beneath him. In the dim light, his violet eyes seemed to ze with an eerie glow, his breathing intensified.


    "Are you truly not afraid of me?


    You''re not scared that I..." His


    fingers traced a path from her cheek


    down to her neck, then suggestively


    lower. With each touch, his breath grew morebored. The air within the car was stifling,den with tension that seemed ready to burst at any moment.


    "Would you be scared if I said I wanted you?"

 Chapter 224 I Am Not Afraid

    His voice was deep and husky, his intense gaze burning as it wandered over her form, finally anchoring with piercing focus on her eyes. Under his prating stare, Calista found herself trembling, yet she managed to maintain a steady voice. "I won''t, even if you were to take me now."


    Her words were nothing short of seduction.


    Kallum responded by lowering his head and passionately capturing her lips with his own, his movements reflecting a fervor as if celebrating thest moments before an apocalypse. Even in this whirlwind of emotions that clouded his judgment, Kallum remained mindful not to cause her any pain. His lips worked over hers with an intense desire to consume, to fully integrate her into his very essence, yet he consciously restrained this primal urge. It was a constant struggle, a tug-of-war between raw instinct and disciplined restraint. Their passionate exchange left their clothes slightly rumpled, and only then did they break away from their heated embrace.


    Breathing heavily by her ear, Kallum''s voice was a cocktail of agony and ecstasy.


    "You''re a wicked woman," he dered, his tone tinged with sweetness yet edged with a rough, gritted delivery. "You did this deliberately, didn''t you? Just when I thought my love for you couldn''t deepen further, you push me to fall even harder! You wicked woman, I don''t think I could ever let you go, not even in death."Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    As he settled down, Calista exhaled a relieved sigh and let out a gentle chuckle. "What was meant to be a touching romantic confession somehow sounded more like a plot from a horror story."


    At her words, Kallum also allowed augh to escape, his demeanor shedding any lingering gloom and regaining its usual vibrancy. "You won''t regret today, and I promise you won''t be disappointed."


    Calista, now slightly propping herself up from beneath him, replied with a yful edge, "Let''s just wait and see then."


    Soon after, they reached the Fairchild Manor. Before they could even exit the car, they were met by a throng of reporters.


    Sterling had been taken to the police station, identified by the butler as a carrier of the K Virus, necessitating his immediate istion. However, the main focus at the moment was unmistakably on Kallum.


    "Word has it that Sterling, confirmed to be infected, had bitten Kallum during an altercation. Now, outside the Fairchild Manor''s gates, we''re attempting to gather more information."


    The reporters'' presence underscored the reality that suppressing this news was futile-too many had witnessed it. Furthermore, the stakes were incredibly high, as the spread of the K Virus posed a direct threat to public safety.


    This marked the first instance these reporters had dared to encroach upon the Fairchild Manor''s doorstep, resolved to stay until they had seen Kallum for themselves.


    As several cars blocked the


    ???


    entrance, Calista reassured Kallum, "Don''t worry, all you need to do is keep going, even if you''re feeling weak. As long as they see your fever has subsided, that''ll be enough. To the outside world, we can im that you received the antibody injection while in the car and sessfully recovered."


    Kallum nced at her, an amused chuckle escaping him. "I''m not worried. Shall we go together?" Without hesitation, Calista took his hand. "Sure."


    As soon as Kallum stepped out, he


    ???


    was greeted by a barrage of shing cameras. The intense scrutiny reminded him of his first press conference as Fairchild Group''s leade his first public deration of


    his new role as the youngest and most promising head of the group.


    Despite his usual avoidance of public appearances, at this moment, their presence was crucial.


    As Kallum made his way into the open, the reporters swarmed over, seizing this rare chance to capture the elusive young CEO without restrictions-previously, any unauthorized photos would prompt immediate demands for deletion.


    Kallum, appearing slightly weakened


    yet still imposing, maintained his


    regal air. His profound violet eyes and the subtle curve of his lips projected an aura of dominance, as if he stood above all others. Now with his left hand bandaged and showing signs of recovery from the fever, spection was rife.


    "Did you sessfully receive the antibody injection, Mr. Kallum?"


    "How are you feeling now? Will there be any future risk of contagion?"


    "Mr. Kallum, would you consider taking a public blood test to reassure everyone?"


    While bodyguards kept the reporters at bay-none of whom wished to get too close, fearing the potential vtility of Kallum-he remained coolly detached from the frenzy around him. After stepping out of the car, he reached back unexpectedly... Everyone was taken aback. Who else could possibly be in the car? Given his evident respect, it must be someone of significant importance, right?


    As all eyes fixed on the car door, Calista emerged, hand in hand with Kallum.


    That day, she was d in a sleek ck gown, her gaze sharp andmanding, her presence undeniably regal, reminiscent of a queen.


    People remembered her. After all, she was indeed a familiar face, especially at Bayview University where she was celebrated as a medical research prodigy. Her recent breakthrough in anti-cancer medicine had already made headlines.


    It''s... Calista?

 Chapter 225 Her Own Research Center

    Those with deeper insight into the Fairchilds knew more about her; Calista was not only a medical prodigy but also the goddaughter of the Fairchild family and Kallum''s younger sister on paper.


    As Calista stepped into the spotlight, Kallum''s usually icy demeanor softened momentarily, giving the reporters pause. Before they could bombard her with more questions, she tilted his head toward them and spoke clearly.


    "I know the question on everyone''s mind. Yes, my brother was indeed attacked by that lunatic. But just now, in the car, he received the antibody shot. It''s quite evident that his fever has subsided. He''s now part of the fortunate one percent."


    Some of the reporters seemed convinced, noting that Kallum appeared free of any feverish symptoms, his eyes bright and exuding authority.


    Yet, skepticism lingered among most of them, driven as they were by the hunt for controversy. Unintimidated by the possible repercussions from the Fairchilds, they pressed on with their probing questions.


    "The implications of this situation are significant. Is the Fairchild family considering a press conference to perform a public blood test to ay public concerns?"


    A reporter eagerly chimed in, microphone in hand, "Given that the K Virus is extremely contagious and uniformly fatal, immediate confirmation is crucial to prevent a potentially disastrous impact on the Fairchild family''s stock values. What measures is your family nning to take?" These issues were already weighing on Kallum''s mind. He knew that if they weren''t addressed swiftly, not only the Fairchilds'' branch families but also their shareholders and rivals lurking in the shadows would start causing trouble.


    But that''s okay, thought Kallum, ncing at Calista with reassurance, feeling invincible with her by his side.


    Calista, feeling the reassuring squeeze of Kallum''s hand, looked up at him and addressed the crowd, "After receiving the antibody shot, a recovery period of one to three months is required. During this time, my brother will be in seclusion. What is there for you all to worry about? Those infected with the virus rarely survive beyond a month. By the time he''s seen in public again, any spection or rumors will have naturally dissolved. So why push for a press conference when he''s unwell?"


    The reporters frowned, processing her logic. It seemed usible that Kallum had indeed joined the rare survivors of the virus, and any doubts would be rified in a month''s time.


    But what if Calista is misleading us? What if Kallum inadvertently spread the virus within that month? The implications could be catastrophic.


    At that crucial moment, Kallum stepped forward, positioning himself protectively in front of Calista. His aura grew more formidable, a clear sign of his resolve.


    "What Callie has said mirrors my own stance. If you really insist on a press conference, it will have to wait until after my recovery. I''m sure you can understand how taxing the recovery from an antibody injection can be. Despite knowing I''m unwell, you persist with these intrusions. Are you trying to provoke awsuit?"


    His words, veiled with a threat, reminded them all of the unspoken power of the Fairchilds.


    Kallum then led Calista, step by measured step, inside. He adjusted his pace to amodate her high heels, making their entrance seem less like that of siblings and more like a couple deeply in tune with each other.


    As the grand doors swung shut behind them, a hush fell over the crowd. Inside, they both knew this was merely the beginning of their struggles.


    Upon receiving the news, Ss was already mobilizing influential allies, while Wanda had retreated, turning down any visits to focus on the crisis at hand.


    After a month, a critical period, they would be poised to act decisively, potentially doubling their impact with half the effort.


    Inside, Kallum turned off hisptop and addressed his assistant, Quintus, "What''s thetest on Sterling?"


    Calista, too, was keenly interested in the man''s fate. Given his unique medical condition, he presented a rare research opportunity as a human test subject. Quintus responded, "Sterling is not only a serious health risk but also a major criminal. Exposing him will require careful handling and a legitimate justification." Kallum nced at Calista with a mischievous grin. "A justification? I think I have the perfect one."


    Curiosity piqued, Calista looked at him expectantly.


    "My dear sister has always been deeply involved in researching the K Virus, even traveling to Corleon for it. As her brother, it''s only right that I support her," Kallum stated.


    He continued, stroking his chin? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    thoughtfully, recall that Grandpa''s


    will mentioned a property meant to serve as a nursing home. I could


    convert that into a biosafety low


    four research center and get it nationally certified. That way, you can conduct your research openly and legitimately right here."


    "The missing piece is a unique subject like Sterling. But once sessful, it could be a


    monumental contribution to the


    world. I''m sure the government would see the benefit," Kallum


    concluded, watching the excitement light up Calista''s eyes.


    "Are you really setting up a research center just for me? My own research center?" Calista was not the kind of girl who dreamed of luxury bags or makeup; her dream was far more substantial. Seeing the spark in her eyes, Kallum chastised himself. Had I known it would make her this happy, I would''ve done this sooner!


    He nodded affirmatively. "Exactly, I''ll establish a research center just for you. And Sterling will be your very first subject."

 Chapter 226 Where Is Quincy

    a merciless revenge, or should I allow him a swift and less painful demise?


    Calista couldn''t suppress a chuckle, realizing the twisted irony of her situation. In her previous life, Sterling and Quincy had tormented her relentlessly for three years at the research center. Now, the tables had turned dramatically, with Sterling at her mercy. Should I exact


    At the same time, Sterling was summoned for a private meeting. "Dad..."


    When Sterling entered the room, he resembled a junkie who had overdosed. His cheeks were hollow, his appearance drastically declined within just a few days. Whether this rming deterioration was due to psychological torment or the virus'' toll was unclear. Harvey sat across him, separated by a protective barrier, his eyes icy as he scrutinized Sterling, assessing what little value he might still possess.


    "I came to let you know," Harvey began coldly, "even though you managed to bite Kallum, he''s recovered. He was administered an antibody shot, and his fever has already subsided. If all continues to go well, he might just survive this ordeal as one of the fortunate few." Initially, Sterling''s expression was vacant, but it shifted dramatically at Harvey''s words. His face twisted into a mask of terror.


    "This can''t be possible!" His disbelief exploded as he mmed his hands against the ss, his voice escting into a desperate shout. "I don''t believe this!"


    Harvey instinctively leaned back as Sterling approached, his expression tightening in a mixture of fear and caution. "Calm down!"


    But how could Sterling calm down? Internally, he was in turmoil, bordering on madness. He had risked everything to eliminate an enemy, only to discover his target was unharmed. The irony was maddening. Sterling clutched at his chest, feeling as though he was about to cough up blood once more.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    During these past few days, coughing up blood had be a grimly ironic routine for him. Although he felt no pain-whether from numbness or actual freedom from difort-his body was betraying him, growing frailer each day, making his existence worse than death. Harvey noticed Sterling''s troubled state but pressed on, knowing the questions that needed asking. "I came only to inquire about something specific-where is Quincy? Did you have her kidnapped?"


    A few days ago, Yelena had been calling him relentlessly, worried because Quincy seemed to have vanished, presumably taken by the Wolfords. Yelena, fearful of making waves, had merely sought Harvey''s assistance.


    Harvey, having never engaged in kidnapping, vividly recalled Sterling''s spitefulments from theirst confrontation. Thus, he had leveraged his contacts to arrange today''s meeting.


    "You came to see me just to ask me this?" Sterling asked, his voiceced with bitterness.


    He realized Harvey hadn''te to rescue orfort him; he was here solely for his missing daughter.


    At this, Sterling''s eyes reddened with a mixture of rage and despair.


    Harvey scoffed at the sight of his godson, "Look at you, teetering on the brink of death. What difference does it make whether I save you or not? Even if you die, the chaos you''ve caused remains! Because of your actions, I''ve had to dissolve two subsidiaries just to stabilize the situation. You''ve not only caused me significant financial losses but also drawn the ire of the Fairchilds. And despite your promises, you''ve failed to settle your debts and even contracted the K Virus!"


    Harvey''s long-held resentments poured out, his speech fueled by Sterling''s powerless state. However, he didn''t lose focus on his daughter''s whereabouts.


    "I didn''te here to point fingers, especially given your current state. I just need to know, what did you do with Quincy? Where have you hidden her?" Harvey pressed. When Sterling remained silent, head bowed, Harvey yed his final card. "If you hand her over to me, I''ll arrange afortable ce for you to spend your final days."


    This offer was a tant lie. Harvey had no intention of extending any real assistance to a man he deemed worthless. His true motive was to uncover Quincy''s location.


    Nevertheless, Sterling knew the man standing before him all too well. Harvey''s heart was as dark as the night, his soul filled with deceit, yet his cunning was unparalleled, always clinging tightly to his core interests.


    "I won''t tell you," Sterling responded with a deep, resonant voice. "Because, as I''ve said before, I n to ensure that you have no descendants to carry on your name."


    Harvey''s face contorted in anger.


    Sterling pointed at him and burst


    into mocking taughter. "I''ll end your lineage for abandoning and using me! You want to discard me now? Fine! Take your wealth to the grave. I''ll make sure that even in death, you''ll be utterly alone."


    A twitch ran across Harvey''s face as he stood, his voice darkening. "Do you think I''m out of options?" Despite the challenge, with Sterling''s condition, the only path forward for his subordinates was to side with


    Harvey.


    one


    Harvey stood up, his stomach protruding, looking down on Sterling from a superior stance. "Since you chose to do it the hard way, I guess you''ll be drawing your final breath here," he dered.


    With that, he walked out, determined to exploit Sterling''s butler to gradually infiltrate Sterling''swork. While it might take time, as long as the leads were alive, he was confident he could uncover Quincy''s whereabouts.

 Chapter 227 Kallum Has Turned Into A Doll

    And there''s still Kallum... In Harvey''s calcting eyes, there gleamed a shrewd glint.


    It seemed almost too coincidental that Kallum had emerged as that rare fortunate one percent. Harvey couldn''t resist wondering if luck was indeed on his side.


    Meanwhile, the Fairchild Manor had be a bustling hub of activity, with a steady stream of visitors arriving each day.


    The motivations of these visitors were not always transparent, but most were there to probe the depths of the truth about Kallum''s condition.


    Kallum and Ss had decided that hiding away was not a sustainable solution. After much deliberation, they nned a family banquet under the guise of celebrating Wanda''s birthday. Officially, it was a festive gathering, but unofficially, it was a strategic move to allow close associates and skeptics alike to see Kallum firsthand.


    Many of Kallum''s friends were in attendance as well. Over the past year, face-to-face encounters with Kallum had been rare, their interactionsrgely confined to the digital realm of video calls. Consequently, when the news of the family hosting a banquet spread, each of them made it their priority to attend.


    The day of the banquet saw the mansion brilliantly illuminated, its location in a sea of expensive houses made it the center of attention.


    Despite the pretext of a family banquet, the underlying concern for Kallum''s well-being was palpable. If he truly had recovered, many would need to reassess their positions and perhaps behave subserviently to return to get into the Fairchilds'' good graces. However, if the Fairchild family was concealing the truth, the implications could stir endless spection. The Fairchilds had long been a prominent and enduring prestigious family, often the subject of envy and intrigue, though Calista had yet to witness theplexities of these internal dynamics, let alone the outsiders.


    Luxury cars lined up one after another, turning the driveway into a spectacle resembling an exclusive car show.


    As the event''s honoree, Wanda was naturally the first to be greeted, although a dressed Kallum was momentarily dyed due to another engagement.


    "Mr. Kallum, you really let me down! We had agreed to go on vacation together, but it''s been a year and I haven''t seen hide nor hair of you!" Remus Shaw, the son of a real estate tycoon from Summerbank and a childhood friend of Kallum, expressed his disappointment. Remus'' grandparents resided in Horington, and that was how he got to know Kallum.


    "You look quite frail; are you feeling better now or not?" Louis Maynard inquired, his concern genuine and palpable.


    Kallum nced at them both, his internal debate on whether to reveal the truth of his condition ending with him choosing silence. Instead, he grumbled, "What could possibly be wrong with me? It''s just that this d*mned recovery period is truly unbearable. I haven''t had a decent rest in days!"


    Their faces mirrored sympathy, and Remus, pping Kallum on the back, offered a half-hearted joke, "You''re already quite fortunate. They say, there''s always a rainbow after the rain!"


    At this, a faint smile touched Kallum''s lips as he thought of Calista.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Isn''t she a blessing? Assuming I won''t die, of course.


    Shaun intervened then, his voice cautious, "Gentlemen, please be mindful. Mr. Kallum is still very weak. Even the slightest touch could cause him intense pain."


    Upon hearing this, Remus stepped back abruptly, looking guiltily at his hands. "Why didn''t you say so earlier? I wouldn''t have touched him if I knew. He''s truly turned into a doll!" Kallum fixed him with a re, though the corners of his mouth twitched slightly. "Even in my current state, I could take you down. Want to give it a try?"


    "No, no! You''re always the boss!" Remus replied with augh.


    While their corner buzzed withughter, elsewhere the mood was more somber.


    Benedict nced uneasily at his daughter, impably dressed and seated on the couch. "Is Mr. Kallum really all right? People have been asking metely, and it''s been making me feel uneasy." Benedict genuinely hoped for the best for Kallum, feeling a deep sense of guilt over the circumstances that had ensnared them both. If only I hadn''t been kidnapped, this wouldn''t have happened. Calista scoffed lightly. "Well, that depends on who''s asking, doesn''t it? I haven''t had the time to reach out to youtely. I''ve clearly warned you to be careful. Why did you still end up getting caught by Sterling?"


    Alone in the room with her father, Benedict feltpelled to confess. His brows furrowed as he looked down. "Callie was foolish and got tricked by Sterling. He sent me a message, iming he had kidnapped Yelena and demanded a million for her release. He also warned me not to tell anyone, or else he would hurt her. When saw the photo he sent, it looked like Yelena, and I couldn''t reach her on the phone, so I... But it turned out Yelena was never kidnapped. The photo he sent was probably photoshopped."


    Calista closed her eyes, a headache brewing at her father''s naivete. Considering his past, it was no wonder he had been swindled so thoroughly, his judgment oftencking when it mattered most.


    "Okay, let''s consider this matter


    settled then, she decided, thinking of the repercussions if Sterling or Harvey learned too much. Benedict was not one to hold secrets well, and stirring up trouble now couldplicate her path of revenge.


    Seeing that Calista wasn''t going to delve deeper, Benedict exhaled in relief. "By the way, you haven''t mentioned how Mr. Kallum is doing? He should be... fine, right?"


    His tone was tentative, fearing the consequences if the truth were otherwise.


    Calista responded indifferently, "Don''t worry, he''s fine."


    Reassured by her words, Benedict


    could finally Rx. If something were to happen to Kallum, not even my death could get me out of this situation, and it''s precisely why dared not step foot in the Fairchild Manor for the past few days.

 Chapter 228 Who Could Have Possibly Caught His Eye

    Calista, checking the time, turned to Benedict with a nod. "All right, you can head on to the banquet hall first. I''ll join you there shortly with Kallum."


    Benedict''s face brightened with a look of sincere admiration, his smile softening the lines of his somewhat ruggedly handsome features.


    "You seem to be on much better terms with Mr. Kallum now. Indeed, it might have been better had you two been siblings from the start. It would have spared you both considerable hardship."


    Calistaughed at this, finding her father''s musings endearingly naive at times. I wonder how Kallum would react to such an observation.


    "Perhaps you''re right," she responded thoughtfully. "I''ll go on ahead then."


    "All right, but don''t keep Mr. Kallum waiting too long," Benedict added quickly.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista took a few steps, then paused and looked back, noticing Benedict still there, his gaze following her departure.


    He stood tall and lean by the window, the sunset casting a warm glow that highlighted his refined features. Unlike many men of his age, Benedictcked the typical middle-aged spread, his demeanor exuding a rxed charm. His eyes carried a hint of youthful naivety that belied his years, reflecting a man who, despite asional obliviousness and bias, deeply cared for his daughter.


    "Off you go, off you go!" he encouraged, waving her off with an amused chuckle when he caught her looking back.


    For some reason, Calista was reminded of an incident in her previous life, when her father had let her go, only to end up severely beaten. He had, on the brink of death, managed to secure some money by selling his kidney and entrusted it to a stranger to give to her. The one hundred and fifty thousand from that desperate act was the most bittersweet money she had ever spent, tainted with the essence of his sacrifice.


    Benedict''s act of letting her go, driven by his own misced courage, was arguably the boldest thing he''d done. The memory made her eyes sting with unshed tears.


    Regardless, Benedict had already paid the price for his foolishness in his past life.


    Calista blinked back her emotions and continued on her path, determined that in this life, Benedict would live out his days in peace and stability-a repayment for both his sacrifices and to honor her grandparents'' legacy.


    Meanwhile, Kallum seemed distracted, his thoughts lingering on Calista. He had chosen a pink gown for her to wear, eager to see her in it, imagining the soft and delicate image she would present, reminiscent of the shy girl from his past.


    "Mr. Kallum, why do I sense something off about you today? Speak up! You were smiling just now. What were you thinking about?" Remus, always perceptive, caught the slight change in his demeanor.


    Louis chimed in with a hint of suspicion, "Kallum, you''re not... in love, are you?"


    Remus immediately scoffed at the idea. "How can that be possible? I was just joking! It''s always women chasing after him; when has he ever chased after someone? I can''t imagine any woman having enough charm to capture Mr. Kallum''s attention."


    Yet Louis remained unconvinced, adding, "Who knows? Maybe there is one." Kallum red at them both, a bit annoyed. "Can you guys stop being so nosy?" Hisck of a retort surprised them.


    Remus, taken aback, pressed on, "You''re kidding, right? Mr. Kallum, you''re seriously interested in women now? Who could it be? The one from the Quinn family? Surely she''s too easy a conquest for you. Or maybe the Lozano family girl? She''s far too arrogant for your taste."


    After a moment''s thought and finding no suitable candidate, Remus continued, "Helena? Ste? Don''t tell me it''s your former fianc¨¦e? Hahaha..."


    Laughing at his spection, he persisted, "Come on, Mr. Kallum, who is she? I''m dying to know who could possibly catch your eye!"


    Louis observed the exchange, suspecting there was truth to the teasing. "I think you might be onto something," he said to Remus, noticing Kallum''s annoyed but silent response.


    Kallum remained tight-lipped, but Remus couldn''t contain his excitement. "Helena? Maureen? Ste? Did I mention these names already? Who could it be!"


    As Kallum''s impatience grew, he tried to usher them out. "Enough, the banquet is about to start. Let''s get going!"


    But Remus blocked his path, yfully threatening, "No way! You have to admit it, or I''ll start rumors that you''ve fallen for your former fianc¨¦e!"


    He felt confident about his bluff, adding with a smirk, "Remember, a smart person does not dwell on past. Let''s see how you can show your face in the future!"


    "From what you''re saying, it sounds like liking me is something shameful?" Amused by the banter, Calista, dressed in the pink mini dress and hair styled like a princess, chimed in.


    Her appearance was deceivingly sweet, but her cool, sharp gaze betrayed a keen intelligence. Her slightly deeper voice cut through the yful atmosphere, challenging the notion of sweetness with her incisive wit.


    "Callie," Kallum turned to her with a


    proud smile, then back to his


    stunned friend. His eyes, shining with admiration, left no doubt that Calista, standing there in all her contradictory grace, was the one who had truly captured his heart.


    Remus, still in disbelief, eximed, "Oh,e on! Are you serious? This is your in, clingy, and unattractive fianc¨¦e?" He recoiled slightly under Kallum''s stern look.

 Chapter 229 A Complete Transformation

    Louis'' usually unppable poker face cracked slightly at the sight of Calista, a testament to the stark transformation she had undergone. The Calista they once knew seemed a distant memorypared to the striking figure she presented now. It was as if she personified the phrase "aplete transformation," resonating powerfully with just a nce. Calista, noticing their astonished expressions, allowed a small, knowing smile to y upon her lips. "Are you gentlemen ready? We should be making our way now."


    Kallum was quick to join her, affirming with a simple, "Alright, let''s go."


    As he uncharacteristically left his two friends behind, their murmurs and Remus'' incredulous shouts faded into the background.


    Feeling a need to defend his friend, Kallum admitted, "Um... Remus didn''t mean any harm, he often speaks without thinking."


    Calista''sugh was light, a gentle sound that eased the slight tension. "No, he''s right. I did use to bother you quite a bit, and I wasn''t exactly attractive back then."


    A twinge of regret shadowed Kallum''s features for a moment, regretting how the conversation had veered into the past-a past he wished he could rewrite every minute to spare Calista any distress.


    "Actually... um, you weren''t ugly before either..." Kallum hastened to add, his voice earnest.


    He truly never saw her as unattractive, even when her face was mostly obscured by her thick bangs. She had a delicate beauty that didn''t need the spotlight to be seen, although it was true that she shone much brighter now.


    Calista sensed his anxiousness and was about to tease him when they were interrupted by a new arrival.


    "Mr. Kallum?" A woman in a stunning blue dress with a daring slit approached them, her presencemanding yet elegant.


    Kallum recognized her immediately-Charlene Leighton, a rtive from his mother''s side, technically his cousin. He nodded coolly in acknowledgment, his demeanor turning noticeably colder.


    Charlene, picking up on the shift in his attitude, was puzzled and slightly wary. Remembering her underlying mission, she mustered the courage to approach him, clutching her ornately beaded purse. With practiced poise, she said, "It''s been a few years since west met, hasn''t it? I hope you still remember me."


    Her words were apanied by a yful blink and a dismissive nce toward Calista, who she considered no more than an inconvenient addition to the family due to Wanda''s impulsive favoritism.


    "How about we head to the banquet hall together?" Charlene suggested, stepping closer and reaching to hook her arm through Kallum''s. Her purse swung forward, poised to brush against his hand. Yet, just as her bag was about to make contact, Calista intercepted, grabbing the strap.


    Calista held up the purse, examining it closely with a smirk. "Could you possibly exin why there are these sharp objects attached to your bag, Ms. Leighton?"


    To an untrained eye, the detail might


    have gone unnoticed. But Calista''s


    sharp vision had immediately


    vel


    spotted the tiny needle cleverly concealed among the embellishments of the purse. A simple scratch from it could potentially draw blood from Kallum in an instant.


    Most would dismiss such an incident as an idental scrape from an unpolished gemstone, chalking it up to mere coincidence. Yet, it was this very design that could cunningly collect a blood sample without suspicion. "Sharp?" Charlene responded, visibly startled, then quickly recovered with a forced chuckle, "Are you talking about the pearls and gems on my bag? Oh, they are not sharp in the slightest. I''m puzzled as to why you would ask." As she tried to reim her purse, her efforts were futile against Calista''s firm grip. By then, Kallum''s expression had darkened considerably.


    Exchanging a significant look with


    Calista, he then turned his piercing gaze to Charlene, his voice cold and steady. "trust what Callie said. As for you, what exactly are you after? My blood sample? Considering our families are connected through


    marriage, are you trying to sever thatPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    tie now?"


    "No!" Charlene''s face nched at his usation. "Have you misunderstood something?"


    She continued to struggle to reim her bag, persisting despite the awkwardness of the situation. "Mr. Kallum... Please don''t be swayed by her words! Take a closer look; is there really anything amiss with my bag?"


    She was confident in the bag''s subtle design, convinced that the tiny, less-than-half-a-centimeter needle was well-concealed by the gemstones'' brilliance. Surely, Calista must have been setting a trap for her.


    Calista maintained her yful demeanor, locking eyes with Charlene. "Well, the only way to be certain of any issue is to put it to the test, isn''t it?"


    Charlene hesitated, unsure of Calista''s intentions.


    In the next instant, Calista tightened her grip on the purse and, without any warning, pressed the side with the embedded needle against Charlene''s arm.


    A sharp cry of pain escaped


    Charlene as the needle broke her


    the wall of the corridor, in


    skin. Calista held her firmly against


    herpletely. She didn''t stop there with a chilling smile, slowly dragged the needle down,


    creating a superficial cut along


    Charlene''s fair skin.


    The pain was akin to a knife''s edge, exacerbated by the intensity of Calista''s imposing stare, which seemed even more menacing than the needle itself.


    Charlene felt her sanity fraying at the edges as she cried out, "Let go! You b*tch, let go of me!"


    In her panic, Charlene''s free hand iled, reaching to grab at Calista''s hair, but Kallum was quicker, seizing her hand before it could make contact. His gaze fixed on the fresh bloodstain, his eyes aze with a fierce protectiveness that bordered on murderous.

 Chapter 230 I Wonder What They Have Planned

    "So, how do you justify the wound on your hand? The lengths your family has gone to just to obtain my blood sample are truly remarkable," Kallum stated, his voice dripping with sarcasm.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Hearing these usatory words, Charlene was overwhelmed with a mix of guilt and fear. Cold sweat beaded on her forehead, and she was unsure if it was due to the pain from her arm or the sheer panic gripping her heart. She gazed at Kallum, her eyes wide with turmoil, and her body ceased struggling; instead, she began to sob uncontrobly, her voice tinged with desperation.


    "M-Mr. Kallum, please, I beg you to forgive me! I didn''t intend for any of this to happen! I''m your cousin! It was merely out of curiosity, nothing more. It wasn''t a n orchestrated by my family!"


    Calista observed the unfolding scene with a bored expression, eventually tossing the bag aside and releasing Charlene.


    Maybe it was the residue of the fear she had instilled, but as soon as Calista let go, Charlene began to slump against the corridor wall, slowly sliding down until she was forced to squat to keep from copsing entirely.


    With a dismissive wave of his hand, Kallum summoned Ryder, who seemed to materialize from thin air. "Throw her out, and make sure to remove everyone who apanied her as well," hemanded.


    "Mr. Kallum!" Charlene''s plea was filled with desperation as tears streamed down her face. "Please, don''t do this, Mr. Kallum! We are family!" The thought of her parents also being expelled filled her with dread; the punishment she would face at home would be severe. "I have no need for rtives who conspire against me," Kallum dered coldly as he continued walking away with Calista, who seemed to relish the drama.


    "I had a hunch tonight''s banquet would be quite entertaining," Calista remarked with a mischievous smile. "I''m curious about what other surprises they might have nned for you."


    Kallum''s expression grew serious. "Tonight is probably just a preliminary test. Knowing the nature of these people, the real spectacle is likely still toe."


    As they entered the banquet hall, all eyes turned towards them. The room was filled with genuine smiles, beaming with sincerity.


    Quintus and three others positioned themselves around Kallum, forming a protective circle that prevented anyone froming within a meter of him, effectively isting him within a small, guarded space.


    "Mr. Kallum, you are truly fortunate. Even the K Virus couldn''t subdue you. It''s quite impressive!" A portly middle-aged man approached, one of thepany''s shareholders, his eyes sharp yet somewhat elusive as he appraised Kallum.


    Many shared the man''s intent, but thanks to Quintus and his team, they were kept at bay, preventing any further incidents like the one with Charlene.


    Kallum exchanged a few curt words with the shareholder, then made his way to Wanda, his demeanor softening. "Happy birthday, Mom," he greeted warmly.


    Calista, too, presented a gift she had prepared, adding cheerfully, "Aunt Wanda, happy birthday!"


    "Thank you, my dears," Wanda epted the gifts, her eyes moist with emotion as she looked on at Kallum and Calista. If it hadn''t been for the setting, she might have cried tears of joy.


    After making the customary greetings, Kallum addressed the gathered crowd, his voice clear andposed. "Today, I am deeply grateful to all of you for joining us to celebrate my mother''s birthday."


    His gaze swept over the assembly, his eyes not quite as warm as his words. He knew all too well the difference between those who were genuine and those merely putting on an act.


    "However, as some of you may


    know, I recently had an ident and


    received the Virus antibody


    injection. am currently in the recovery period and have been advised by my doctor to rest. Therefore, I won''t be able to stay long tonight. Once I have fully recovered in a month or two, I


    promise to host another gathering to


    celebrate properly with everyone."


    The crowd responded warmly, most seeming to believe that Kallum''s recovery was well underway. And even if there were doubters, none dared to challenge his statement openly.


    Yet, as is often the case, unexpected developments were bound to arise.


    Suddenly, a new voice called out, "Mr. Kallum, you wouldn''t mind if I showed up uninvited, would you?"


    The banquet attendees murmured among themselves, curious about the neer no one seemed to remember inviting. This was intriguing because each guest had been allowed a plus-one, yet no one could ce this individual. Kallum did not recognize him at first, but others did.


    "Warrick? What brings you here?"


    Warrick Zielinski, a slim man with a cunning smile, replied, "Well, I do have some connections with the Fairchild family, don''t I? So why shouldn''t I be here at a family banquet?"


    It then dawned on Kallum that this man was a former shareholder who had been ousted, a minor foe of the Fairchilds.


    Seeing no reason to engage in petty


    disputes, Kallum was prepared to leave, but Warrick quickly interjected, "It''s only natural for Mr. Kallum to rest if


    if he''s feeling unwell. I just wanted to ask Ms. Stafford a few questions in front of everyone today."


    Positioning Calista protectively behind him, Kallum turned to face Warrick directly, raising an eyebrow and smiling coldly. "And what right do you have to question her? If I remember correctly, you''re nothing more than the least favored illegitimate offspring of a disgraced family. Callie is my treasure. You''re overestimating yourself, don''t you think?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 231 Throw Him Out

    Kallum was never one to hold back his words, especially when it came to protecting Calista from any affront. His intolerance for disrespect toward her was a clear trigger for his ire, and he never hesitated to express his displeasure openly.


    Warrick''s face soured upon hearing Kallum''s unabashed defense, yet he persisted with his scheme, seeing no direct way to challenge Kallum''s influence. Instead, he targeted Calista in an attempt to create a rift.


    "Mr. Kallum, your favoritism toward Ms. Stafford is quite apparent! She''s a treasure, isn''t she? Could we perhaps understand why? What has brought about such a dramatic change in your attitude? It''s well-known around Horington that there was a time when you harbored no fondness for Ms. Stafford. Maybe Ms. Stafford herself could enlighten us?"


    The crowd around them, far from intervening, listened with rapt attention, their interest piqued. Over the year, Kallum''s public appearances had been rare, but his business exploits were well-recognized in the city. Moreover, he was often seen with Calista, clearly very close, though his affection disyed more brotherly than romantic.


    Kallum and Calista exchanged a silent nce, choosing not toment. Their rtionship, for multiple reasons, was in a delicate bnce-tooplicated for public discourse.


    Warrick pressed on, eager to provoke a reaction. "If we were to specte that you harbored romantic feelings for Ms. Stafford, then she wouldn''t now be considered your sister, right? Once we rule out that possibility, only one remains."


    He seemed smug with his deduction, confidently asserting, "Ms. Stafford must surely provide some extraordinary benefits to you, wouldn''t you agree, Mr. Kallum? Ordinary advantages wouldn''t suffice to capture your interest. Given Ms. Stafford''s recent endeavors, it seems she''s quite focused on acquiring the K Virus, no?"


    "If Ms. Stafford''s efforts could solve significant global challenges, that would indeed bring immense benefits and prestige to the Fairchild family. So, that must be why Ms. Stafford continues to enjoy the Fairchild family''s favor, right? Perhaps, Ms. Stafford, you could exin your sudden trip to Corleon? What sparked your intense interest in the K Virus? With your achievements in cancer research already paving your way to fame and sess, why choose to pursue such a dangerous path?" Warrick continued.


    The force of his interrogation turned the room''s attention squarely onto Calista, their eyes probing, assessing whether such a young woman truly held the power he insinuated.


    Have we stumbled upon some groundbreaking information? If not, how else can we exin Mr. Kallum''s protective stance toward her?


    Warrick cleared his throat nervously


    beforeunching into the speech he


    had meticulously prepared beforehand "Let us consider for a moment that my theory holds water-that Ms. Stafford possesses an incredible talent and has made noteworthy advancements inher research on the K Virus. It''s perfectly understandable why Mr. Kallum holds her in such high esteem and ensures she remains by his side.


    However, that is not the crux of what


    I wish to discuss today!"


    He paused, allowing the suspense to build, his words capturing the attention of everyone present. In that moment, Warrick, though small in stature, felt a surge of exhration as the spotlight figuratively turned to him, his suppressed excitement slowly bubbling to the surface.


    His eyes intensely focused on


    Calista as he continued, each word enunciated with precision, "Now, imagine if Ms. Stafford has indeed discovered something


    phenomenal-if she has actual


    developed a technique to mask the presence of the K Virus. Wouldn''t that signify she has achieved what no one else could? Suppose she has developed a treatment that allows those infected to recover rapidly from a fever or to appear as healthy as anyone uninfected..."


    His suggestions were heavy with innuendo, almost overtly insinuating that Calista''s high standing with Kallum was because she had managed to conceal his supposed infection with the K Virus.


    The implication was clear-Kallum was only seemingly uninfected because of Calista''s secret intervention.


    Many in the crowd, especially the


    more cautious ones, instinctively retreated a step, pondering the usibility of Warrick''s assertions They found it difficult to ept that Kallum''s recovery was merely due to the rare sess of the antibody injection, suggesting that Warrick''s spection might indeed Phold some truth.


    "Are you done?" Kallum''s voice cut through the murmuring, his expression one of unmistakable disdain.


    Despite the heavy scrutiny from the crowd, Calista disyed no signs of unease. With a nonchnt smirk, she responded, "I must concede, your ''theory'' is rather entertaining."


    Kallum, his brow furrowed in irritation, had already made decisive move. "Throw this attention-seeker out!"


    At hismand, two figures promptly stepped forward, seizing Warrick firmly by each arm.


    Warrick was taken aback, not expecting Kallum to sopletely dismiss the spection swirling around them. Without offering any defense or rification, Kallum was prepared to get rid of him!All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.

 Chapter 232 Something To Hide

    It appeared that the onlookers also harbored suspicions that the Fairchild family was attempting to conceal something significant. The swift manner in which they dealt with the disruptor, Warrick, seemed to confirm their suspicions. Is this not a sign that they indeed have secrets to hide?


    The bystanders felt powerless; they could do nothing but observe as Warrick was forcibly removed, his protests echoing loudly through the hall.


    "Wait!" Warrick''s voice carried a palpable sense of urgency as he continued to shout. "Mr. Kallum, you owe everyone an exnation! Just rify your sudden change of heart toward Calista! Tell us, and we''ll believe there''s nothing dubious going on between you two!" Kallum couldn''t help but find the whole situation rather amusing. He looked over the crowd with a faint smirk, raising an eyebrow as he asked sarcastically, "So, you all believe I owe you an exnation?"


    The crowd, caught off guard, quickly shook their heads, though internally many disagreed. On the surface, however, they aligned with Kallum''s perspective.


    "Of course, we''ve always trusted you! That Warrick was clearly just trying to cause trouble."


    Some began to vocally affirm their loyalty, though their true thoughts remained hidden.


    "Absolutely, absolutely. And as for your newfound affection for Ms. Stafford... well, she certainly has her charms. But that''s a personal matter, isn''t it?" Yet, even as they said this, their eyes couldn''t help but dart curiously toward Calista.


    The dramatic shift in Kallum''s behavior toward Calista, as well as her unexpected decision to research the K Virus in Corleon, had certainly raised eyebrows.


    Moreover, Calista''s known brilliance in medical research only added to the spection. Could she really have discovered a way to swiftly conceal Kallum''s symptoms or even prolong his life dramatically?


    Even if Kallum were to pass away, as long as it wasn''t from an illness, it likely wouldn''t cause much of a stir. However, if it came to light that he had contracted a disease and chose to treat it secretly, risking public safety, it would plunge the Fairchild family into a severe crisis of credibility.


    The atmosphere in the room was charged with tension, the underlying currents of unrest palpable even after Warrick had been expelled.


    Amid this chaos, Calista and Kallum exchanged nces, signaling that it was time to unveil the exnations they had meticulously prepared.


    Suddenly, Calista grasped Kallum''s hand, herughter ringing softly in the air. "I never imagined everyone would be so curious about me. Since that''s the case, it seems only fair that I don''t keep secrets anymore."


    The crowd''s attention sharpened, a collective breath held in anticipation. Are they about to reveal some shocking secrets?


    Calista motioned to silence the music and stood confidently beside Kallum, who rxed visibly at her touch. "Do you want to know why Kallum''s feelings for me changed? Why he suddenly began to treat me as if I were a treasure?"


    She smiled gently, turning to look at Kallum. "It''s because, after more than a decade, I finally managed to touch his heart..."


    A hush fell over the room. What? Kallum and Calista are in love with each other? That seems far-fetched; surely, this is a facade to cover the real truth!


    Regardless of the stir below, Calista


    I


    continued, her voice calm and clear, "He didn''t care for me initially because of a misunderstanding. After some time, I stepped back and was adopted into the Fairchild family We spent a great deal of time together, which cleared up any misunderstandings. Eventually, my persistent affection reached him, and he began to ept me. It''s rare to find someone who can continue loving another for so long as I have..."


    Though it was all an act, something genuine seemed to stir within


    Kallum as Calista''s fingers inteced with his, her subtle fragrance enveloping them. Kallum''s expression softened, a small, almost imperceptible smile forming on his lips. Unbeknownst to him, there was a noticeable sparkle in his eyes as he looked at Calista.


    Surprisingly, many of the women in the room started to believe the narrative. Could it be true that Mr. Kallum has indeed fallen in love?


    This new understanding evoked a mix of envy and admiration.


    Calista, noting the change in


    Kallum''s eyes, felt a rush of satisfaction. With a poised smile, she exined further, "When we confirmed our feelings for each other, had just recently be the Fairchilds'' goddaughter. It wasn''t the right time to announce our changed rtionship. Plus, I''m still quite young, so we opted to keep this a secret for now and nned to talk about it openly in a few years. I didn''t anticipate it would lead to such misunderstandings..."Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Her voice carried a hint of frustration as she continued, "My fascination with the K Virus stems from a deep-seated curiosity. I believe every genius possesses a relentless spirit. Faced with some of the world''s most daunting challenges, the toughest viruses naturally spark my interest. That''s what drew me to Corleon."

 Chapter 233 Public Display Of Affection

    "Since I went to Corleon without telling Kallum, he came personally to Corleon to bring me back when he found out. Technically, I should still be in Corleon right now."


    As she spoke, she yfully pouted her lips, portraying the elegant yet mischievous distinguished youngdy from a respectable family; her performance was utterly convincing.


    "Since I''ve been cornered today, I have no choice but to rify things, to prevent any unnecessary misunderstandings. While it''s true that I''ve studied the K Virus, I''m only human, and my understanding of it is limited. The gentleman''s earlier spection, I must say, has somewhat demonized me. Indeed, Kallum had contracted the virus. But, thanks to the timely injection of antibodies, he became that lucky one percent. I was even more ecstatic about that than he was!"


    Her eyes shimmered as if speckled with subtle hints of affection. Whenever she looked at Kallum, it seemed as if no one else existed in her world. This was exactly how Calista used to look at Kallum. Kallum felt his heart race as he gazed into her eyes, overwhelmed with happiness and contentment.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    The joyful smile that lit up his face was something no one else had ever seen before, making him more dazzling and eye-catching than ever.


    Proudly, he raised their interlocked hands, solemnly announcing to the people with various expressions on their faces. "Since you all seem to be curious, I''ll let you in on it. If I don''t meet an untimely end, I''ll marry Callie once she reaches legal age. I love her, and that''s something that would never change."


    A stifled cry of excitement echoed from below.


    Calista added, "Assuming I don''t meet an unexpected end, I''ll continue loving you until the end of the world."


    Feeling it was cheesy, the two shared a nce and smiled bashfully amidst the dazzling lights. It was a scene so beautiful that some of the youths could no longer contain themselves, letting out cries and cheers of astonishment.


    This is thrilling! The sight of a handsome man and a beautiful woman standing together is already quite a spectacle, and they''re even publicly disying their affection! They''re clearly doing this on purpose!


    Many women felt a pang of envy and disappointment, but their hearts almost melted when they saw the way Kallum looked at Calista. They had seen more than their fair share of life, and they knew how to distinguish between true and false love. If there was ever true love in the world, it would be Kallum and Calista.


    Thus, despite their jealousy, they were reluctant to ruin what Kallum and Calista shared, as if it were unprecedented and that they would never again witness such a beautiful love.


    It goes without saying for the middle-aged wealthydies. Deep down, their youthful hearts dreamed of bing princesses, and the cruel nature of reality made them even more susceptible to such beautiful love. The older men were probably the only ones who managed to maintain theirposure.


    Those who refused to give up finally couldn''t resist causing a scene.


    A jewelry tycoon stepped forward, wearing an ambiguous smile. "Congrattions, Ms. Stafford. You and Mr. Kallum are finally together after you''ve been in love with him for such a long time. I bet it wasn''t easy. Your unwavering determination is admirable especially with all the rumors and gossip swirling around. I''m quite envious!"


    He patted his stomach, a cold glint shing in his eyes as he asked jokingly, "If, and I mean if, Mr. Kallum didn''t be that one percent lucky guy, what would you do?"


    This seemed like a harmless joke on the surface, but Calista could sense the malice hidden within.


    If she were to demonstrate unwavering love, she couldn''t just blurt out some curt responses without thinking especially in the presence of so many witnesses.


    A smile graced her face as the light showered upon her, entuating her bashfulness, determination, and affection. At that moment, she was a girl deeply in love with Kallum, willing to do anything for him.


    "If Kallum really couldn''t get better, I would only do one thing." As soon as she finished speaking, she stood on tiptoes and kissed Kallum''s pale lips right in front of everyone.


    Subconsciously, Kallum held Calista tightly, his arms wrapped around her waist. His gesture was filled with tenderness and affection, as if they were meant to be in each other''s arms.


    Moreover, he simply couldn''t resist her allure. The moment she leaned in close, he had already taken the initiative to kiss her lips.


    In order to give everyone a clear view, Calista wrapped her arms around Kallum''s shoulders, making sure everyone knew they were sharing a passionate tongue kiss. How they panted and kissed each other fervently made others blush. Perhaps there was an inherent advantage to being attractive. Even when expressing their love and desires, they exuded indescribable charm.


    When the kiss ended and Calista''s face flushed as she looked at Kallum with sparkling eyes, many men''s heartbeats quickened as if they were the ones kissing Calista.


    "If Kallum is fine, I''ll marry him and we''ll have a lovely child together. However, if he were to pass away, I''d choose to join him in death. There were no other oues I could consider."


    She was staring intently at Kallum,


    I.ne


    who felt his heart swell with emotions. His purple eyes were filled with an unspeakable depth of emotion. At that moment, all he could do was hold Calista tightly, unable to utter a single word.


    MS


    Many women patted their blushing cheeks, reflecting on what they just saw and wishing they were the ones being embraced and kissed by


    Kallum. Furthermore, there wer


    plenty of men who watched Kallum with envy. He already has am exceptional family background and looks. Why does he also get to have the world''s prettiest woman? What did he do to deserve this?


    Many who had initially harbored doubts now had no choice but to put them aside Calista''s act of kissing. Kallum was devoid of any pretense or hesitation. No one could risk their safety to put on such a


    performance. After all, they would never dare to kiss someone infected with the K Virus, let alone engage in a tongue kiss.


    Ss finally let out a long sigh of relief after observing everyone''s expressions, ying along. "Yes, that''s true. Kallum is still recovering. I''d appreciate it if you all could take the focus off them and let them rest." Many people shed kind smiles.


    "Mr. Kallum, do rest well. I''m waiting for your wedding!" said a wealthydy in her fifties.


    Kallum tightened his grip on Calista''s hand and demonstrated unprecedented patience for the first time ever in a banquet. "All right, thank you."


    "My goodness, seeing you guys makes me feel like I''m back to my teenage years." A princess from Wallera in her sixties spoke warmly to Calista. Despite her age, she looked incredibly elegant and beautiful.

 Chapter 234 Is It True

    "I like you very much. When you two get married, you must invite me," she added with an amicable smile. Calista reciprocated the smile. "Definitely."


    They received numerous blessings, and it wasn''t until a good ten minutester that they managed to exit the banquet hall. It was clear that their strategy for the evening had been quite sessful.


    The best way to divert public attention is to create a bigger topic of discussion. And what could be more gossip worthy than Kallum''s love life, which had practically been non-existent before this? "Phew..." Calista let out a sigh of relief. It''s exhausting to act like a woman devoted to love. How did I even do this for more than a decade in the past?


    In contrast to her exhaustion, Kallum was in such a good mood.


    The moon was bright and clear, and as the two of them passed through an open corridor, their hands remained firmly entwined.


    Calista was exasperated. "Will you let go now? You''re squeezing my hand so hard it hurts."


    Kallum loosened his grip slightly but did not let go. "No. Who knows? Someone might see us?"


    Calista could only let him be. "Shall we grab something to eat?"


    They had just shown their faces at the banquet and hadn''t had anything to eat.


    Kallum nodded. "Sure, let''s go grab a bite!"


    They had barely taken two steps when Kallum suddenly asked, "Was what you just said true?"


    "Hmm?"


    Kallum didn''t turn around, so Calista couldn''t see his expression.


    ""You said that if I were to die, you would die with me..."


    Though it seemed somewhat imusible, the moment Calista uttered those words, he felt that she might be telling the truth and that she was really willing to die with him.


    Calista chuckled, which made Kallum feel uneasy. He halted in his tracks, turning to look at her. Serenity and peace filled the air as they were bathed in the moonlight. "Why are youughing?" Kallum was annoyed, wishing that he hadn''t asked.


    Calista arched an eyebrow, looking up at him. "And what about you? What do you think of my earlier performance? Do you think what I said was true?"


    Kallum furrowed his brows. Naturally, he believed it to be true. However, he was a bit skeptical and found it unbelievable, considering Calista''s usual attitude.


    Calista smiled. Her smile held a hint of mystery coupled with her radiant, starry eyes.


    She spoke slowly, emphasizing each word. "You should know, the guests in the banquet hall earlier were all shrewd individuals. Onlyplete authenticity can truly touch their hearts."


    After finishing her sentence, she


    gracefully walked away, leaving Kallum standing rooted to the spot in a daze. He was like a young boy experiencing the stirrings of love for the first time, utterly at a loss


    So does that mean... everything she said was true?


    Kallum''s smile grew wider as immense joy overwhelmed him. When he finally snapped back to his senses, he realized that Calista had already walked far away.


    "Callie, wait! So, you meant it when you said you loved me? I''ll remember this! You can''t deny it now!" he eximed, catching up to her.


    The joyous news from the banquetst night was bad news to Harvey.


    "How much of that scene fromst night was true?" he wondered aloud, his muttering overheard by the assistant who came to report to him. Reflecting on the events of the previous night, the assistant said, "At least it seemed genuine to me."


    Distracted, Harvey nodded. He wasn''t there, so he still harbored some doubts.


    Warrick was easily defeated this time. If he wanted to try again, he would need a moreprehensive n.


    "I must say, that Fairchild brat is tough to deal with. No wonder Sterling suffered at his hands. It was also my fault for being too caught up in Summerbank before this. Looks like I can only ept my bad luck and swallow this bitter pill," Harvey said before asking again, "How''s Quincy doing? Is her condition stable now?" Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    The assistant behind Harvey inwardly scoffed, maintaining a calm exterior as he said, "Not yet. She had a close brush with death this time and was severely traumatized. We''ve already switched her to a new psychiatrist."


    Harvey was exasperated at the mention of Quincy. "Like mother, like daughter indeed. Quincy''s nothing like me."


    "Perhaps she''s just not mature enough yet," the assistant remarked indifferently. At least ording to their investigations, Quincy''s ruthlessness was strikingly simr to Harvey''s.


    "Let''s hope for the best. Now that Sterling''s out of the picture, I don''t seem to have any other options besides her. Looks like it''s time for her to reunite with her family..." said Harvey. Meanwhile, Sterling was blindfolded and taken to an undisclosed location.


    At this point, he was as thin as a rake, appearing to have aged decades in just a few short weeks. Every day was a living nightmare for him.


    When his blindfold was removed, he saw Calista. Strangely, she was the only one in the room; there was no one else.


    Sterling, with his mouth stuffed, could only let out unintelligible, muffled moans. The hatred in his gaze when he looked at Calista was almost palpable.


    Calista pulled the cloth out of Sterling''s mouth. Since he was tied up, she wasn''t concerned about him posing any threat to her.


    She clicked her tongue. "You look miserable. Have you not been eating in the quarantine area?"

 Chapter 235 Excruciating Torture

    With a mischievous smile, Calista sat across from Sterling, looking down at thetter, who was miserably curled up on the carpet, bound from head to toe.


    "Calista... you want to kill me?" Sterling red at her. "Don''t bother wasting your energy. A few days ago, government officials said they were going to take me away for research. You didn''t know that, did you? Most people infected with the K Virus die within a month, but not me. I can survive! As long as I keep nourishing myself, I can live on. If you dare kill me, you''ll face the wrath of the government!" Calista chuckled at his naivety. "In reality, I was the one who wanted to take you away for research. The government was just the front. They don''t care about you at all, just like they don''t believe that I''ll conquer the K Virus just by acquiring you."


    A chill ran down Sterling''s spine, and he nced at Calista with a fearful expression. "W-What are you nning to do to me?" he asked.


    "What am I nning to do?" Calista asked, her legs crossed as she leaned back on the couch, a thoughtful expression on her face. "I was originally thinking of setting up a research center, and then you''d be my first human test subject. It would make it easier for me to study the K Virus."


    Upon hearing that Calista did not intend to kill him, Sterling breathed a sigh of relief. However, the very next moment, Calista''s words plunged him into despair.


    "Do you think being a test subject is better than being dead?" she asked.


    Indeed, that was what Sterling thought. If the experiment was sessful, I''d still have a slim chance of survival, right?


    Calistaughed wickedly, brutally shattering his hopes.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    "Compared to the average patient, your greatest advantage is that you don''t experience pain, right? No matter how well a person can bear pain, their subtle expressions and movements will reveal it. The K Virus is known to cause unbearable agony, yet I haven''t seen a trace of suffering in you."


    Calista exposed him, "No matter how well a person can bear pain, their subtle expressions and movements will reveal it. The K Virus is known to cause unbearable agony, yet I haven''t seen a trace of suffering in you."


    This was also why she was able to discern that Kallum''s condition was progressively worsening. No matter how well Kallum could bear the pain, it was impossible for him to show no signs, unless he had lost his sense of pain.


    In the quarantine area, no one provided Sterling with painkillers or anesthesia. Yet, he seemedpletely fine. There could only be one exnation-he wasn''t in pain at all.


    Sterling''splexion subtly shifted. He was apprehensive about falling into Calista''s hands, fearing that Calista would deliberately torment him, causing him immense pain.


    ???


    Calista didn''t mind his silence and continued speaking. "You''re not feeling pain now only because you''re numb to it. Why else do you think you''re vomiting blood every day? You have a unique constitution, and your pain receptors have been paralyzed by the K Virus. It''s true that you''ll live longer than most because many typical reactions, like fever and otherplications, won''t happen to you. But three to four months is your limit. You won''t make it past half a year."


    "That''s impossible!" Sterling reacted strongly, for he firmly believed that he was different from others. As realization dawned on him, he gnashed his teeth and said, "I get it now! You''re doing this on purpose, deliberately spreading such rumors! So, after three or four months, when I''m dead, you can just tell the authorities that I died naturally, right? Dream on! Where''s mywyer? I haven''t been stripped of my human rights! Where''s my


    Calista chuckled softly. "At this point, you''ve been stripped of your human rights. Now, you only have two options: One is death, and the other is to serve as my human test subject."


    There was joy in her voice. "Once you be a human test subject and enter the treatment phase, the virus'' paralyzing effect on your nerves will lessen. You will soon experience the same pain as other patients. Because of your unique constitution, I will do my best to prolong your life for my research. Then, you will live each day wishing you were dead... Trust me, I will make your life a living hell."


    Her bone-chilling, eerie voice echoed throughout the room, making Sterling shudder.


    He detected the resentment in Calista''s voice and was surprised to discover that Calista harbored such intense hatred toward him.


    Calista continued smiling. "When the


    timees, the pain caused by the


    virus is the least of your worries. The agony you experience during drug trials is worse than that. Every medicine injected into your body will react violently with the K Virus. Regardless of whether the virus overpowers the medicine, or the medicine suppresses the virus, you''ll experience the thrill of pain so intense it almost kills you. Have you ever experienced the sensation of pain so intense that it knocks you out, only to be awoken by the same excruciating pain, repeating over and over for three days, drenched in sweat? I''ll bind your limbs securely, stuff your mouth with cloth, and tie you to the bed. I''ll watch as you struggle for three days and nights, as the pain wakes you, as you scream, as thick blood seeps from your eyes... You''ll surely find that experience fascinating, won''t you? Staying alive in agony is better than being dead, isn''t it?"


    For the first time in his life, Sterling felt his heart sink. Calista''s words dripped with bloodlust; though it might sound exaggerated to an ordinary person, he, as someone infected with the K Virus and understood its terrifying nature, knew Calista wasn''t joking. The scenario she described could genuinely happen to him.


    "Why?" Sterling sprawled on the ground, his expression filled with sorrow and despair, his voice barely a whisper as he questioned, "I admit, I ruined your ns the moment I appeared, and I admit that I even tried to kill youter... But I gained nothing from you! Why... Why do you hate me so much? Why are you torturing me like this?"

 Chapter 236 I Hate You

    Indeed, she hated him.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Every word she uttered seemed like a curse from hell. Her gaze and even her smile carried an intense bitterness. Sterling couldn''t understand where her deep-seated hatred wasing from. Calistaughed silently. "Why? I''ve experienced the same pain because of you... Of course I hate you."


    Sterling thought that Calista had lost her mind. She is the apple of Kallum''s eyes! Anyone who dares to hurt her will face severe retribution! How could she possibly have experienced the pain she just described?


    Calista appeared deep in thought, her eyes slightly unfocused as she studied his dejected expression. "You seem perplexed. How about I tell you a story? Do you believe in reincarnation?"


    In the pitch-ck night, under a dim yellow light, Calista finished telling her story. Sterling''s expression morphed from disbelief to eptance, then to madness, and finally to hysteria.


    "So that''s how it is! I can''t believe this..." Despite being tied up, he continued writhing and struggling, fixing his eyes on Calista and shouting in a crazed manner. He opened his eyes so wide, his mouth distorted into a grotesque, huge grin, looking like a lunatic.


    His voice hoarse, he enunciated each word, "So, this is why you transformed overnight! I was wondering why you werepletely different from how Yelena describe you! Now it all makes sense! Now it all makes sense! No wonder you''re so enigmatic and can see the future! So, you''re the most unique carrier! As long as I have your body, I can survive! You are the key to conquering the virus! I want your brain, too. When you be mine, I''ll have everything I ever desired!"


    As he finished speaking, hey t on the ground, straining to gaze at Calista''s blurry face greedily,boriously trying to crawl over to her. "As long as... I have you, I''d achieve sess... I''d reap both fame and fortune, and I''d myself of this d*mned virus and rise again!" Calista nodded affirmatively, her voice faint. "Theoretically, you''re right. Right now, all you need is a phone, and all it would take is for you to make one phone call to Harvey, and you could potentially turn things around. Imagine this: with me as your test subject, you could easily conquer this global conundrum. With all the knowledge stored in my brain, your family could be propelled to great heights, basking in glory!"


    Sterling''s eyes lit up when he heard that, as if he saw hope and a dazzling future ahead. With these cards in hand, I''m sure Harvey would do anything he could to rescue me. Everything I ever dreamed of is now within my reach...


    Spotting the desire and hope fill his eyes to the brim, Calista leaned back in her chair with a smile and poured herself a ss of wine, her voiceced with a hint of mockery as she spoke. "But now... do you think I''d give you that chance?" Sterling was taken aback.


    Narrowing her eyes, Calista swirled


    the ss in her hand, her gaze filled with mischief and disdain. "In my previous life, I missed my


    opportunity; misced my trust, and was too timid. That was why I lost everything. But in this life, you''ve fallen into my hands..." Pausing, she continued smugly, "Moreover, you''re the one infected with the virus, not me. It''s time for you to experience everything I ever endured in my previous life. Sterling, are you ready to face my resentment and your retribution?"


    Sterling, filled with hope, was once again plunged into despair. Looking at Calista, it dawned on him that she only shared such a huge secret with him because she wouldn''t allow him the opportunity to spill it.


    She was the source of his hope but also his greatest nightmare. The rollercoaster of emotions overwhelmed him, his expression a mix of joy and sorrow. In his daze, he even began to question whether he was in a dream!


    Calista observed the situation closely, noticing that Sterling was on the brink of an emotional breakdown. He was just a step away from the breaking point.


    "Do you know why I studied the K Virus in this lifetime? It''s not entirely because it imed my life in the past." She spoke, smiling maliciously, making it hard to tell whether she was telling the truth. Sterling stared at her, numb from everything. At this point, nothing could faze him anymore. What could possibly be more absurd than reincarnation or more tragic than the current state he was in?


    Calista lowered her gaze to look at him, her gaze piercing as she chuckled chillingly. "The reason I studied it was because of Kallum. Did you know? He was also infected with the K Virus." Sterling felt as if he was suffocating.


    "Is he... a special infectee too?" Sterling asked, his voice faltering with uncertainty.


    Kallum could only have been infected a year ago in Lostaria. If he didn''t have a unique constitution, he couldn''t have possibly survived until now.


    "No, no." Calista waved her finger, grinning as she spoke evilly, delivering yet another blow to Sterling. "Have you forgotten? My medical skills can extend one''s life!"


    "What? Kallum treated you poorly in your previous life! Why would you even bother saving him?" Sterling lifted his head in disbelief, almost wanting to sit up and see if Calista had lost her mind.

 Chapter 237 Push Him To The Brink

    Sterling widened his eyes, stammering almost incoherently. "Why did you save him but refuse to spare me?"


    He simply couldn''t believe this. This is so unfair! Am I really not dreaming? Perhaps it''s all a dream, and I''ll wake up tomorrow in my bed. The K Virus, Calista... everything must be a dream!


    Calista, entertained by his deranged expression, refrained from informing him that Kallum was infected because of her, and instead, continued to provoke him. "Because you deserve to die. I want nothing more than to see you dead. But death will note easy for you. I will do research on you and torture you, just as I was tormented in my past life. I will use your pain and your body to save Kallum. He will continue to live in glory, while you will die. Once my research isplete, I will remove your nutrient IV drip, leaving you to slowly die of weakness, living out the rest of your days in despair..." Sterling was at a loss for words.


    Calista chuckled lightly. "Are you angry? Are you furious? You were born an orphan, always striving to achieve sess. You believe those born into privilege are nothing special. With your intelligence, your abilities, and even your ruthless nature, you could easily manipte those privileged ones like puppets on strings. But I''m going to sacrifice your life for Kallum''s sake. I want to prove to you that his life is valuable, while yours is worthless." ""Enough! Stop it!" he shrieked.


    "Why should I? You''re destined to grovel on the ground, weak and helpless, just like now. You''re no more than a pest, so insignificant that people wouldn''t even bother to trample on you. What do you have topete with others? Your background? Looks? Character? You''re utterly worthless. You can''t make a silk purse out of a sow''s ear."


    "Enough! Enough! Enough!" he bellowed like a madman, his bound legs iling wildly, before he burst into a disconcerting fit ofughter.


    As he cackled, his face was streaked with tears, making him look both miserable and repulsive.


    "I am the most powerful one here! You people are just privileged by birth! You think I''ll just obediently let you experiment on me? You think I''ll allow you to use me to conquer the virus, to gain fame and sess, and then use me to heal that d*mned Kallum? Ha, in your dreams! In your dreams!"


    After he finished speaking, he bit off his own tongue.


    Thick blood dripped from his mouth as he wore an eerie smile that was tinged with despair.


    "Dream on... I did nothing wrong... I did nothing wrong..." he mumbled. I did nothing wrong. I was just born underprivileged.


    It was only after watching him die that Calista finally put down her crossed legs that had grown numb.


    "You''re right. You did nothing wrong. There''s no fault in being persistent, in striving to climb higher. If one isn''t born into privilege, what''s wrong with struggling to create a future for oneself?" Sheughed self-deprecatingly, her voice dissipating in the wind. "But why did you treat me that way? What did I do wrong?" she mumbled, closing her eyes and remaining motionless for a long while.


    Indeed, she could have inflicted the cruelest tortures on Sterling, exploiting his unique constitution to test drugs recklessly. This approach would have yielded quicker resultspared to her current method of trial and error.


    But if I do that, how am I any different from those monsters who used me as a guinea pig in the past? However, letting Sterling off the hook and forgiving him is simply out of the question!


    Therefore, Calista chose to drive him over the edge.


    She intimidated him, providing him


    with hope before filling him with despair, poking at his most sensitive psychological weaknesses and breaking down his defenses. In the end, it was only natural for him to end his life in agony before her, marking the conclusion of it all.


    Having reincarnated, she never intended to be a good person.


    When Calista finally exited the room wearily, she happened to run into Quintus. She said to him, "Sterling, has chosen to end his own life by biting his tongue because he was terrified of bing a test subject. His body carries the virus and is a biohazard, so cremate it


    Quintus was taken aback. "Sterling ended his life?"


    How is that possible? Sterling doesn''t seem like the kind of person who''llmit suicide.


    Filled with doubt, Quintus, while overseeing the collection of Sterling''s body, made a point to examine it. He discovered that Sterling had indeed died from biting his own tongue and that there was no trace of any human intervention.


    In other words, Sterling was either so mentally vulnerable that hemitted suicide, or Calista had pressured him into suicide with her words.


    If it was thetter... Quintus


    shuddered in fear. He still


    remembered the vitality and reluctance to give up in Sterling''s eyes when he brought him over. Sterling was not the type to take his own life. He was still holding on to the hope that the government could conquer the virus using his body and restore his health. Even if he was destined to spend his life in prison once he recovered, there wasn''t the slightest hint of despair in his eyes. All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    So, if Ms. Calista really did drive him to death, she''s just... too scary.


    Given that Sterling hadmitted a serious crime and was infected with the incurable K Virus, the nature of his death wasn''t investigated. The police didn''tment on the matter, allowing it to be swept under the rug.

 Chapter 238 The Daughter Of Harvey

    However, Sterling''s death was not the end. Ever since Kallum and Sterling''s incident, peace was destined to elude the Fairchild Manor.


    "Did you find out who it was?" Kallum, busy with work, lifted his head and cast a nce at his subordinate.


    Derek respectfully said, "The Wolford family."


    That was both an unexpected yet anticipated answer.


    With Sterling''s death, the Wolford family was greatly weakened. However, the reason a n was firm and unshakeabley in its deep-rooted and umted foundation. The Wolford family, at their level, couldn''t be easily destroyed. Not even the president had such power.


    However, in order to fill the void left by Sterling, Harvey racked his brains. He had no choice but to select an heir from his own children and nephews as a bargaining chip, asking his closest family members to help him cover the loss.


    In the end, he chose the son of his incredibly wealthy younger brother. No one knew that Harvey had a daughter, so when Sterling passed away, his brother, Kyven Wolford was easily lured by the tantalizing promise Harvey made. Not only did Kyven offer his youngest son, but he also contributed a significant amount of money. This provided a much-needed relief to Harvey''s rapidly dwindling funds, securing his position as the head of the Wolford family.


    Then, as a vindictive man, he seized the opportunity to meddle with the Fairchild family. What Kallum needed to do was stop him from doing so.


    "It''s confirmed that those people with Quincy are Harvey''s subordinates. Old Mr. Yancey, what do you think is the rtionship between Harvey and Quincy?" Kallum asked with a yful tone, though he had his suspicions.


    As Calista''s "nemesis" who was always on her radar, Quincy had been under surveince by a man dispatched by Kallum since the day she left the country. Some time ago, when Quincy was kidnapped and subsequently rescued, everything was kept under wraps. However, since Kallum had someone watching Quincy, he naturally didn''t miss such a significant incident. Upon some investigation, he discovered that the kidnapper was Sterling, while the rescuer was Harvey. This was quite intriguing.


    Shaun, given his age and experience, was naturally shrewd. "Harvey is renowned for his ruthlessness. After Sterling''s death, he acted as if the man never existed, focusing solely on filling thepany''s void. Yet, he treated Quincy, someone of no value to him, kindly. Coupled with the fact that Sterling had someone kidnap Quincy before his death, it speaks volumes about the situation."


    Kallum chuckled. "Everyone said that Harvey was born with a physical defect and unlikely to have any descendants. Who would have thought that after all these years, there''s actually one who slipped through the?"


    This was something Shaun couldn''tprehend. "Logically, even though Quincy''s a girl, Harvey, given his situation, can''tin either. He should cherish her like a treasure, so why didn''t he acknowledge her as his daughter?"


    A glint of wisdom shed through Kallum''s purple eyes. He chucklednguidly, his tone tinged with mischief. "The only possibility is that this child came at an inconvenient time, or that she''s a blemish on his life. But even so, he was afraid that Quincy would be the only child he''d ever have, so he kept her. Regardless, the story behind this must be quite intriguing, and it could also serve as a great counterattack!"


    Kallum curled his lips into a smirk. "What do you think would happen if we released this news after Harvey gets the money from his younger brother?"


    Shaun alsoughed. "Harvey will definitely be entangled in a mess. His younger brother would realize he''s been swindled and would demand money from him. However, getting Harvey to cough up the urgently needed money would be impossible. When that timees, it''s certain to get ugly. Whether Harvey can continue being the head of the family is another matter altogether."


    Kallum chuckled mockingly. "Serves him right for trying to take


    advantage of me while I was ill when he himself is still on the verge of copse. Of course, this is just our spection. But I believe it will turn out to be true. All we need now is a piece of evidence."


    Derek, who hardly spoke, muttered quietly, "I''ll go."


    Kallum nodded in approval. "As soon as possible."Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Derek immediately left.


    Shaun watched as Derek walked away, nodding in approval. "Derek is quite impressive. No wonder Ms. Calista is fond of him. He''s diligent and quiet. A promising individual indeed." Kallum, who was brimming with enthusiasm and confidence, suddenly frowned and wore a strange expression. "Callie is fond of him?"


    He pursed his lips before he could finish his sentence, as if to say Derek wasn''t all that great, which was why he didn''t praise thetter earlier.


    Shaun burst into heartyughter, his


    wrinkled face wearing a teasing expression. "Mr. Kallum, I must


    you''ve


    I say,


    young me more like an ordinary


    young man since you fell ill.


    Although I''ve watched you grow up, I''ve never felt as close to you as I do now."


    Kallum snorted. Older people are so sentimental and chatty. Perhaps I should consider sending him to the Fairchild family''s nursing home.


    Shaun added, "I believe Ms. Calista would prefer the current you, too."


    Kallum''s eyes lit up. Despite his old age, Old Mr. Yancey still has a keen eye for things. His retirement can wait.


    Sterling''s body was thoroughly incinerated after they collected enough blood samples from him. When Calista returned, she saw that Kallum was still at work.


    "Your health isn''t as good as it used to be, my dear brother. You should reduce your physical activities and workload," Calista said in slight exasperation.

 Chapter 239 Unexpected Intimacy

    Kallum felt that this brother-sister rtionship had be their thing. Since their announcement at the banquet, outsiders stopped taking their sibling rtionship seriously. Of course, Kallum himself had never taken it seriously to begin with. "My dear sister, it''s not like I''m paralyzed," he said.


    Even though it was a heavy topic, Kallum spoke about it with a lighthearted smile. There wasn''t a hint of despair visible on his face, even though the pain he endured was far more intense than that of the patients in Corleon. Those patients, under the treatment of Calista''s team, were given painkillers from time to time to extend their lives. However, Kallum had none. From the beginning, he had not taken a single painkiller, enduring the torment of both the treatment and the virus every day. He had grown thinner than before, but his eyes were brighter than ever.


    What sustained me back then was hatred. And now, what''s sustaining him?


    The fleeting thought merely flickered across her mind before she asked, "I heard you had something important to discuss with me?" She walked over to the desk, raising an eyebrow. "And it''s about Quincy?"


    Kallum nodded, admiring Derek''s efficiency. By now, he had already obtained the results of the parental test between Quincy and Harvey.


    "Though it might sound absurd, this matter involves you and your father, so I must tell you. Quincy is not your sister, nor is she a part of your family." As Kallum spoke, Quintus hastily ced a document in front of Calista.


    Kallum tapped his fingers on the report, his expression serious. "Her father is Harvey."


    As he spoke, he observed Calista''s expression, but to his surprise, Calista was totally unruffled.


    Kallum found her reaction odd but quickly dismissed the feeling and continued, "Although it was still unclear why Harvey didn''t acknowledge Quincy as his daughter, Derek had already started investigating. The truth should be unveiled in the next few days." "No need," Calista suddenly interrupted him, her eyes twinkling slightly as she wore a half-smile and added, "I know the reason."


    "You know? So you''ve known all along that Quincy is Harvey''s daughter?" Kallum raised his voice. His expression grew increasingly curious as he thought about Benedict''s reaction. "But you didn''t tell your father..."


    Calista nced at Quintus and suddenly snuggled into Kallum''s arms. Since everyone assumed they were a pair, she would naturally take full advantage of their newly-established rtionship.


    Kallum, not expecting her to do that, was flustered, but Calista ignored him and sat down on hisp, lowering his voice. "It''s interesting. Let me share it with you..."


    As she spoke, her eyes sparkled, almost as if she was about to share some intriguing news.


    Kallum''s heart skipped a beat as he cradled her, and before he could calm down, Calista''s warm breath tickled his earlobe.


    He felt an itch, a tingling sensation


    akin to a mild electric shock, which made him instinctively flinch. This elicited a frown from Calista. She looked at him with a raised brow, as if to ask, "Do you want in on the secret or not?"


    Kallum felt his heart race and his breathing quicken as he gazed at her. The temperature in the air began to steadily rise.


    Would Callie pull away from me if I sent Quintus out of the room?


    Suppressing his intense desire, Kallum waited until the tingling sensation subsided before he finally spoke in a hoarse voice. "Go on. I just suddenly thought of something."


    "I see..." Calista leaned in to continue speaking, but she had barely spoken a few words when Kallum flinched again.


    That same tingling sensation would


    assail Kallum whenever her breath


    brushed against his ear. If he


    ???


    resisted the urge to pull away, he could only allow the sensation to course through his body like electric currents, suppressing the urge


    insane.


    groan. He was almost drie to


    "What''s the matter now?" Calista asked, tilting her head.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Her calm voice ignited passion in Kallum''s eyes, and he eyed her like a piece of meat. The room was filled with palpable tension and heat, as if the air itself was about to catch fire. Meanwhile, Calista also noticed Kallum''s odd behavior and blinked in bewilderment.


    Her adorable look was so captivating that he wished he could devour her.


    Quintus silently wiped his sweat, knowing he should leave. However, he had a feeling that the burning air might scorch him if he so much as moved a muscle.


    The two people in the chair looked into each other''s eyes, intimate as ever. Calista might not notice it, but Quintus, as a man, could distinctly sense the sudden surge of sexual tension between them.


    Mr. Kallum has been suppressing it for a whole year, and I know it''s hard for him. But please don''t let it happen in front of me! Please! I dare not move or look! "What on earth is wrong with you?" Calista, sensing danger, frowned in concern.


    She was intelligent, with a resolute and tenacious mind, yet when it came to matters of the heart, she was as nk as a sheet of paper.


    The reason she had always been so at ease around Kallum was that she knew very well that Kallum wouldn''t darey a finger on her unless he had a death wish.

 Chapter 240 A Good Plan

    Plus, based on Kallum''s reaction, it was clear that Kallum was more interested in her than she was in him. As a result, she was in control, but that didn''t mean she had be a seasoned veteran in the game of love. She was merely smartly using her advantage, but was far from being a master in love.


    Now was a good example of just how clueless she was. Anyone could tell Kallum was struggling to suppress his feelings for her. In fact, the muscles beneath his clothes that were taut with tension, his intense aura of masculinity, and the look in his eyes said it all. However, Calista, though initially uneasy, quickly convinced herself that Kallum wouldn''t harm her and continued sitting on hisp, oblivious to the danger.


    Kallum''s handsome face was taut, his Adam''s apple bobbing incessantly. It seemed as though he had so much to say, so much he wanted to do, yet his rationality kept him in check. Such a tense atmosphere caused goosebumps to crawl all over Quintus'' skin. "Nothing." Kallum''s gaze dimmed. Apparently, rationality had prevailed over impulse this time. He desired to conquer her yet was so afraid to hurt her.


    "Quintus, get out," he said.


    "Yes, sir!" Quintus, relieved, shouted in response and took off, scampering out of the room.


    When they were finally alone in the room, Calista started to feel uneasy. "Don''t you want to hear about Quincy''s secret?"


    Kallum reached out, pulling her close to him. In a hushed voice, he muttered, "I''m more curious about your secret."


    The word "secret" clearly held a deeper meaning. Unfortunately, Calista didn''t get it. As Kallum held her, she responded the same way she did in any other intimate moment they shared throughout the year, quietly enduring it.


    She felt that she had a huge impact on Kallum''s state of mind, and a patient''s emotions were crucial to the treatment. Her sense of shame had long since disappeared anyway, and she could handle being embraced and kissed. Plus, Kallum always had a refreshing scent about him, and his appearance was a feast for the eyes.


    After Calista revealed Quincy''s secret, Kallum had already calmed down. He hadn''t expected to hear such news, but it surprisingly aligned with his spections.


    "No wonder Harvey didn''t want to acknowledge her. This is absurd!"


    Calista didn''tment on that. "So, you''re nning to use Quincy''s background as a counterattack against Harvey?"


    After considering the potential oues, she let out a pleased chuckle. "That''s a pretty good n. But I''m not nning on letting Quincy leave the Stafford family so soon. After all, it''s going to be hard for me to make a move against her if she''s too far away." She sneered, not even bothering to hide her animosity toward Quincy.


    Kallum said, "If you wish to keep her around you, I can change my approach. After all, I have plenty of ways to deal with Harvey."


    "But this n is the most dramatic and interesting!" Calista eximed, changing her mind. "I think it''s not bad at all I can finally rx since won''t have to pretend to be


    cy''s


    sister anymore. It''s tiring to keep up the act."


    Swan


    Kallum couldn''t help kissing Calista''s hair, saying affectionately, "Whatever floats your boat."


    Calista looked up at him but didn''t say anything in the end. She''d never fall in love with someone else again in this lifetime anyway. If Kallum continued pampering and loving her, she was happy to enjoy his affection. Meanwhile, Harvey and Kyven had finally agreed on terms and were enjoying a friendly lunch following their negotiation.


    "It''s settled then. I''ve given you everything you need. You better take good care of Kieran," said Kyven.


    Harvey spoke sincerely. "You know my situation. I don''t have any children. From now on, I will consider Kieran as my own son, even if by some chance I have a child of my own, too."


    Kyvenughed and said with feigned magnanimity, "If you have a child of your own, I would certainly be happy for you! You should prioritize your child by then, but don''t forget about Kieran, too!"


    He was merely being polite.


    Everyone knew that Harvey had


    been getting annual check-ups and treatments without any sess. §Ö Last year, the doctors had already dered that he had lost his ability to conceive. So, Harvey''s assets would all belong to Kieran in the


    future.


    A glint shed in Harvey''s eyes as he chuckled. "You''re the kindest one among all my brothers! I''m d I chose Kieran as my sessor. I hope he turns out like you so that I have someone to rely on when I grow old." Kyven immediately waved his hand, beckoning his son over. "Kieran, from now on, Uncle Harvey will be your father! You must respect and honor him, understand?"


    Kieran, who was fifteen years old, appeared extremely obedient. He greeted Harvey right away, "Dad!"


    "Good boy!" Please, Harvey patted the youngster''s shoulder.


    As the three interacted harmoniously, Kallum received some news and promptly made a call, a smile ying on his lips.


    A DNA test reportnded on Kyven''s office desk. When he saw that, his cheerful smile was turned upside down. "Harvey! You b*stard! How dare you deceive me!"


    Harvey had imed that he was


    childless and that Sterling, whom heProperty of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    had raised, had passed away,


    leaving him no choice but to adopt


    one. All his brothers believed him and vied for the adoption


    ¦¯¦«


    opportunity. However, it turned out


    that not only did Harvey have a child, but the child was already eighteen years old.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 241 Unwilling To Let Things Go Easily

    Kyven, of course, wasn''t willing to let the matter rest easily. He had approached Harvey several times, intent on getting his money back first and foremost! Unexpectedly, Harvey never anticipated that Quincy''s secret would be revealed. By that time, Quincy had already been taken away by Yelena. As such, he wondered if Yelena...


    However, that was not the time for Harvey to dwell on that. It was impossible to expect him to cough up the money he had already spent. He even went to Kyven, stating that he didn''t n to acknowledge Quincy as his daughter. Additionally, he emphasized that she was a woman andcked business acumen. Thus, even if he did acknowledge her, she wouldn''t be the heir he wanted.


    However, Kyven wasn''t an idiot and didn''t get fooled by Harvey. He wasn''t someone to be trifled with, having both money and power under hismand. If it hadn''t been for Harvey''s cunning schemes in the past, it was debatable whether Harvey would even have the chance to be the head of the Wolford family!


    The Wolford family was in dire straits, but under the conscious control of Harvey and Kyven, the mystery of Quincy''s origins had not yet been revealed. At that moment, Quincy returned!


    Quincy wasn''t supposed to return at that time, but after being kidnapped and frightened, she no longer dared to stay abroad alone. Even if Yelena''s "friends" were there to look after her, it just wasn''t enough!


    Thus, under the tearful pleas of Yelena, Quincy returned to her home country ahead of schedule.


    After a year apart, Quincy had changed significantly. She used to present herself as lively and adorable, but at that moment, shecked the youthful vitality expected of an eighteen-year-old girl. Her eyes were gloomy, and when she looked at people, it inexplicably irked them.


    As a member of the family, it was only natural for Calista to return home at that time to check Quincy out.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    At that point, Benedict''s attitude toward Calista had be much more reserved. Had he not been forced to acknowledge it at the previous banquet, he could never have imagined that Calista and Kallum were in that sort of rtionship!


    After the incident, Benedict called to inquire. Calista candidly admitted her rtionship with Kallum. Instantly, her value in Benedict''s eyes skyrocketed!


    The goddaughter of the Fairchild family and the futuredy of the Fairchild family were two entirely different concepts! Moreover, it was Kallum himself who publicly dered his intention to marry Calista. Given his reputation for always keeping his word, it seemed this wedding was all but certain.


    Calista was oblivious to the fact that people outside had gone crazy over Kallum''s two sentences because she was at home.


    "Dad, you really don''t have to do this." Seeing Benedict wee her as if she were a guest, Calista felt somewhat ufortable.


    In her past life, she was practically invisible in that household. It seemed her status determined the treatment she would receive.


    Benedict wore that cautious


    expression again. Even though he was her father, he had witnessed Calista''s cold indifference over the past year. Moreover, Calista''s personality had be incredibly sharp, a trait that Benedict naturally feared. Therefore, he no longer dared to assert his authority as an elder in front of her. After all, Calista was no longer the obedient and quiet girl she once was. "It''s good that you''re back. Come on... Quincy, quickly greet your sister! You haven''t seen each other for a year. It''s the perfect time to catch up."


    At that moment, Quincy''s mood was far from beautiful. If before she had the patience to feign civility with Calista, at that point, all she had left was jealousy!


    Quincy had suffered so much abroad, yet Calista was thriving back home!


    When Calista was kidnapped, she surprisingly received a public proposal from Kallum! Horington was buzzing with that news. Everyone envied and congratted Calista, iming they were a match made in heaven. Except, of course, Quincy, who thought that Calista didn''t deserve Kallum.


    Quincy gritted her teeth. We''re sisters, so why are our circumstances so vastly different? Now, everyone only knows of the eldest daughter of the Stafford family, who''s a prodigy and the lucky one held in high esteem by Kallum. As for those who remembered me, they probably only recalled my scandals!


    "Quincy?" Benedict frowned.


    "Callie." Quincy took a deep breath. She was not foolish, quite adaptable, in fact. Mirabelle still had a bit of a prominent youngdy''s airs about her, but Quincy didn''t. After adjusting her attitude, Quincy even managed to put on a smile. "I was kidnapped overseas, so I''m a bit upset. I hope you won''t take it personally."


    Calista slightly raised an eyebrow. It seems that Quincy has grown up quite a bit. "Why would I be?" Calistaughed. "In fact, I came to present you with a grand gift." Quincy was taken aback. Would she really be so kind as to give me a gift?


    Yelena felt an inexplicable unease stirring within her. Meanwhile, Calista spoke up, addressing Benedict before anyone else could "Dad, I have a few personal things I''d like to discuss with Quincy. I


    ve


    promise it''s going to be a pleasant conversation. Could you and Mrs.


    Stafford give us some space?"


    In response, Benedict hesitated a bit. However, considering his humble wish for family harmony, he hurriedly agreed.


    However, Quincy didn''t want to chat with her. She found Calista too suspicious, which scared her a bit. So, she called out, "Mom!"


    Yelena immediately stood up. "We''re family. There''s nothing you can''t discuss openly."


    Calista revealed a rather mysterious smile. "Quincy, what I have to say is definitely good news for you. However, if you really don''t want to hear it, then let''s drop it. Is the meal ready? I''m hungry." Quincy and Yelena exchanged a nce. Quincy was swayed by Calista''s words, while Yelena felt an inexplicable sense of worry.

 Chapter 242 Oblivious To Underlying Tension

    "All right... Let''s talk in the living room then," Quincy hesitantly agreed, subtly ncing at Yelena.


    Benedict was oblivious to the underlying tension between the two women and cheerfully guided Yelena aside. Once Benedict was out of sight, the strained smile on Quincy''s face faded away.


    "Speak up! What is it that you want to say?" Quincy was perched on the couch, legs crossed, her hand subconsciously reaching into her pocket before halting midway. Calista surmised that she must have developed a smoking habit. After all, abroad, even some drugs weremonce, much less smoking.


    Calista didn''t point out the obvious and took a seat on the couch to Quincy''s left, chuckling lightly. "Actually, I can totally rte to how you''re feeling right now. Do you feel like everyone is revolving around me, and all the good things are falling into myp? Even though we both carry the surname Stafford, our situations couldn''t be more different, could they?"


    Quincy stared at her with somewhat vacant eyes. "Isn''t that the case?"


    Her demeanor gradually became more subdued, and in the end, she red at Calista like a venomous snake. That was a stark contrast to how she was when Benedict was around!


    Quincy spat, "Did youe here to gloat? You b*tch, you stole everything from me! You were the reason I was disgraced and expelled from school. Now, you''ve sessfully won over Mr. Kallum and be the most esteemed woman in the city. Are you pleased with yourself?"


    Calista, however, continued Quincy''s words. "Meanwhile, you have to make a living from those people you looked down upon."


    Calista looked at her with a hint of sympathy. "You disdain the identity of Ms. Stafford, thinking it''s beneath you. You scorn Benedict, yet you''re forced to appease him, for without him, even this lowly status would be beyond your grasp. Also, you look down on Yelena. Despite her wholehearted good intentions toward you, you still see her as petty. Everything you''ve ever wanted, everything you value, is now in my hands. You''re envious of me, wishing you could rece me, isn''t that right?"


    Quincy gritted her teeth, maintaining a semnce of rationality. She knew she couldn''t yell at Calista while Benedict was present. Yet, what Calista had just said left her so infuriated that she could barely breathe!


    "If you''re talking to me just to humiliate me, then we have nothing more to discuss! You b*tch, you''d better keep enjoying this while you can..." The look in Quincy''s eyes seemingly oozed with venom.


    If given the chance, she would have definitely crushed Calista when she was at her lowest!


    Seeing that Quincy wanted to leave, Calista slightly grinned and asked in a low, mysterious voice, "Don''t you want to turn things around?"


    Quincy paused while a hint of mischief lurked in Calista''s smile.


    "The grand gift I''m offering you is absolutely what you desire. A distinguished status, a formidable father, and a unique position. Don''t you want it?" asked Calista.


    Quincy astutely caught the hidden meaning in Calista''s words. She sat back down, inexplicably staring at Calista, "What do you mean?"


    "What I''m trying to say..." Calista leaned in closer, her voice filled with intrigue. "Have you never considered the possibility of having an even wealthier father who has you as his only daughter?"


    "This can''t be!" Quincy scoffed. No one understood Yelena''s love for her better than she did. If she had a more noble status, Yelena would never have kept it a secret. At least, that was what she believed. However, she didn''t immediately walk away. It could only be said that deep within her heart, she was hoping what Calista said was true, which was what Calista wanted.


    Calista settled herself properly


    before speaking. "Your true identity is the sole daughter of the current head of the Wolford family, Harvey. He was born with a physical defect and was not supposed to ve any children, but you were an unexpected miracle."


    "The Wolford family?" Quincy''s voice suddenly rose. She hadn''t forgotten that those who had saved her and taken care of her abroad were from the Wolford family. Yelena had mentioned she had some


    el.ne?


    connections with the Wolford family, and that was it. Despite that, Quincy made an effort to find out more, only to discover that the Wolford family was a colossal entity! Thus, she harbored the intention oftching onto them for a while already.


    However, from Quincy''s perspective, all of that should have been unknown to Calista. Since she''s mentioning the Wolford family now, could it be... Could what she said possibly be true? Regardless of what was going on in Quincy''s mind, Calista continued to speak. "Indeed, you are Harvey''s biological daughter. This is something I was informed about by Kallum."


    Quincy''s eyes suddenly brightened a bit. After all, Kallum represented authority! So, she believed he couldn''t possibly lie!


    However, there was something that popped into Quincy''s mind.


    "It can''t be." Quincy''s voice wavered between excitement and calm. "If what you''re saying is true, there''s no way my mother wouldn''t have told me. Calista, are you concocting this scheme just to get at me?"


    Calista chuckled lightly, her lips


    pursed. "Yelena kept you in the dark


    wasn''t because she didn''t want to


    tell you. It was Harvey who forbade her. He didn''t like Yelena, so


    why


    naturally, he had no expectations for you. Yelena, being too obedient, didn''t dare to defy him. Thats she ended up marrying you off to Benedict. Otherwise, why do you think someone as strong-willed as Yelena would choose a man like Benedict in the first ce?"


    Quincy was getting restless. She believed that Calista had no reason to lie as she could simply ask Yelena about it to know the truth.


    Precisely because of that, Quincy was ready to take action! If what Calista said was true, if she were indeed the daughter of the prestigious Wolford family, then everything would change!R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

 Chapter 243 Will Not Yield The Answer

    With those thoughts in mind, Quincy immediately wanted to seek out Yelena for rification.


    "Seeking Yelena now won''t yield the answers you''re looking for. If she chose to keep secrets from you back then, she''s not likely to reveal them now. However, if you''re truly keen on questioning her, I have three pieces of news for you. First, Harvey is secretly nning to adopt a nephew as his son and leave his entire estate to him. Second, Harvey''s doctor has dered that he''spletely lost his fertility, meaning you''re his only child. There won''t be another. The third..." A hint of coldness swirled around Calista''s brows, giving Quincy the creeps! "Thirdly, I''ve already got proof that you''re not Benedict''s child. Tell me, if I were to spill this to Dad, where would you and Yelena end up?"


    Quincy''s thoughts werepletely dominated by Calista. Initially, knowing she might have a powerful father, Quincy felt a touch of secret delight. However, fear suddenly consumed her. If what Calista said was true that she wasn''t the daughter of Benedict, then both Yelena and she would be driven out of the Stafford family!


    She was lost in her thoughts. After she opened her mouth, it took her a moment before she could stutter out her words. "You''re lying, right? You... No, this can''t be. What is it that you want me to do?"Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista didn''t give her time to process and spoke coldly. "You aspire to outshine me, to elevate your status. Meanwhile, I simply want you out of the Stafford family. It''s as straightforward as that. Tell Yelena I want her to divorce Benedict within ten days! When I return next time, I don''t want to see her, and I certainly don''t want to see you. If you don''t want to end up homeless and thrown out on the streets, you''d best try your luck with Harvey. You''ve got ten days, plenty of time to make a choice."


    Once Calista finished speaking thest word, only then did Quincy dare to catch her breath slightly. The vibe Calista had unleashed just a moment ago was too powerful!


    Moreover, each word Calista spoke seemed to drain more color from Quincy''s face. Quincy had previously been filled with anticipation at the prospect of a new father, but at that moment, she was only filled with dread. The implications of Calista''s words were clear. If she couldn''t sessfully integrate into the Wolford family, there would be no ce for her in the Stafford family either. There was no reason for Calista to lie about such a matter either. In other words, Calista truly had evidence that Quincy was not Benedict''s biological child and intended to use that to drive Quincy and Yelena out!


    Quincy was somewhat afraid of Calista''s ultimatum. No matter how ruthless she was, she was only eighteen. She feared that after Yelena and Benedict divorced, she couldn''t be a part of the Wolford family. However, Calista didn''t give her any choice. "Have you made up your mind?" When Calista asked that question, Benedict called out to them cheerfully, inviting them toe over for a meal.


    Benedict was rather indifferent toward Yelena, but when it came to his two daughters, he cherished them both despite his partiality. It was precisely because of that Benedict appeared somewhat foolishly pitiful in Calista''s eyes.


    She acknowledged Benedict with a brief response, then continued to look at Quincy, who was wrestling with her emotions.


    "I''m not giving you a choice for consideration. I''m merely informing you. You better tell Yelena that she must be the one at fault in the


    divorce, and it has to happen within ten days. Otherwise, I''ll reveal her past scheme of intentionally framing Benedict. You really shouldn''t p me to take the final step because once her reputation is tarnished, even if you be part of the Wolford family, you''ll never be able to hold your head high," continued Calista.


    Bewildered, Quincy stared at Calista.


    Each word Calista uttered was like casting a spell. "You don''t have a choice because the power is in my hands. Either you leave with Yelena, or you fight for everything you want. Otherwise, once Harvey truly adopts a child, you''ll be irrelevant. You''ll be dispensable. Do you understand?"


    Quincy found herself lost in a mind fog.


    Meanwhile, Harvey''s status became increasingly precarious. In order to maintain his position as the family head and to protect hispany, he had no choice but to make a vow under the watchful eyes of many.


    On the day of the adoption, he left an unalterable will, designating Kieran as the sole heir. He also pledged that he would never acknowledge Quincy as his own for the rest of his life.


    The official establishment of the will


    might take some time, but was


    Harvey serious about it? Of course not! If he were to establish such a will, he might soon die from an


    "ident." At that moment, he was merely


    ebuying time, waiting for hispany to weather the storm and stabilize. Once that happened, he would have plenty of ways to deal with Kieran and Kyven. All he wanted was to get through that period first.


    At that moment, even though he didn''t have any evidence, he was


    certain that the only ones who could easily uncover his secret connection with Quincy were the Fairchild family! A ruthless glint shed in his eyes. Since Kallum insisted on pushing me to the brink, once I''m steady, I''ll undoubtedly strike back relentlessly, regardless of the cost! Now, all I hope for is a period of peace and tranquility during this time.


    Upon hearing Quincy''s words, Yelena waspletely taken aback. "You''re saying Calista found out you''re not the biological child of the Stafford family?"


    Upon seeing Yelena''s expression, Quincy immediately knew that what Calista had said was indeed true and spoke in a tone filled with grievance. "Mom! Why didn''t you tell me earlier that I''m the daughter of the Wolford family?" The Wolford family is so affluent that even tenbined Stanford families couldn''tpare to it!


    Yelena was bitter as she knew all too well why Harvey was unwilling to acknowledge Quincy. It was because he couldn''t bear to lose a certain someone. However, Calista had clearly obtained evidence to use against Yelena and her daughter, leaving them in a vulnerable position. As such, Yelena was at a loss about what to do.

 Chapter 244 Ten Days

    Inside the room, Quincy was squatting beside Yelena''s leg, gently rocking her. "Mom! Say something! Soon, we won''t have a ce in the Stafford family. We only have ten days. I don''t think Dad will still treat me well once he finds out I''m not his biological child. We can only hope to secure the Wolford family''s support now..." Yelena muttered, "But... But the Wolford family-"


    "Mom!" Upon seeing her mother''s hesitation, Quincy quickly interrupted, "I don''t care why you didn''t stick with Harvey initially, but I am his only child. He won''t have any more children in the future, so he has no choice but to acknowledge me! You seem to be afraid of him, but you''re so capable when dealing with Benedict, so why can''t you do the same with Harvey? That''s the Wolford family, you know? Once we be part of the Wolford family, no one will dare to look down on us again! However, right now, he''s about to adopt a child. We must secure our position before this happens! If we don''t act now, returning to the Wolford family in the future will be even more impossible. Do you want us to be kicked out of the Stafford family and forced to return to your parents'' home?" Quincy''s words finally struck a chord with Yelena. Thetter gritted her teeth, uttering a somewhat resentful curse. "This must have been uncovered by the Fairchild family! I knew it. Calista''s relentless efforts to please Mr. Kallum were certainly not out of good intentions!" Quincy pushed her mother somewhat irritably. "Is this really the time for thinking about that? We only have ten days! You should be thinking about how to divorce Benedict! I''ve thought about it. We can''t stay in the Stafford family any longer, so rather than waiting for Calista to kick us out, I''d prefer you to divorce first! At least that sounds better!"


    Yelena noticed that Quincy had already weighed the pros and cons thoroughly. Benedict was indeed good to Quincy, yet Quincy was filled with nothing but excitement, with no trace of sadness or reluctance. For some reason, that realization made Yelena a bit scared.


    Quincy continued with her analysis, "We mustpletely cut off ties with the Stafford family. Only then would Harvey ept us. This is our opportunity..."


    Quincy had spent the entire night yesterday pondering, and she came to the conclusion that the benefits outweighed the drawbacks. That was why she was able to articte her thoughts so clearly with Yelena.


    Seeing Quincy show no attachment to the Stafford family and long for the Wolford family, Yelena was left with no other choice. She had to suppress her fear of Harvey and make her decision withplete resolve! "Fine! I''ll get a divorce and take you to the Wolford family!" Thus, under the instigation of Calista and Kallum, chaos erupted at Harvey''s home before he could catch a breath.


    The day after he had promised to make his will in a few days, Yelena showed up at the door with Quincy!Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Harvey broke out in a cold sweat. If Kyven were to see that, the delicate peace he had so painstakingly achieved would once again be shattered! The thought of the chaos that would ensue if Kyven lost his temper sent a shudder through Harvey. It was truly a case of misfortunes nevering singly!


    "What are you doing here?" Harvey''s expression had turned quite unpleasant. He had his secretary guard the door, and the sight of Yelena and Quincy filled him with an unspeakable irritation.


    "Harvey, I''m at my wit''s end this time! Calista has already found out about the rtionship between Quincy and you. She threatened me, saying if Quincy and I don''t move out of the Stafford residence, she''s going to publicize your rtionship with Quincy to the world," said Yelena.


    At that moment, Quincy looked pitiful, her eyes reddening as she gazed at Harvey. "Mr. Harvey, I never imagined that you would turn out to be my father. No wonder you were always so kind to me... No wonder I felt such a strong bond the moment I met you..." The two women yed the sympathy card, causing Harvey an extreme headache! He scowled at Yelena, on the verge of losing his temper!


    "Do you even know what time it is?!" Harvey bellowed in anger, effectively silencing the two women. Gritting his teeth, Harvey continued.


    "Because of the losses I''ve been suffering for a year, I desperately needed arge sum of money! Otherwise, will have to sell off my primary assets and there is a real risk of me going bankrupt! So, Chave no choice but to adopt Kieran so I can get the money from Kyven! Yet, you lot choose to cause chaos at this time. Are you trying to bankrupt me? Even if you have toe back, couldn''t you pick another time?"


    On her way, Quincy had already gotten a general understanding of Harvey''s business empire. To put it simply, even if Harvey went bankrupt, his status would still be much higher than that of Benedict''s.


    Even ignoring the other members of


    the Wolford family, Harvey was loaded. His main businesses included ten docks, hundreds ofrge cargo ships, and nine luxurious resorts, among other things. Those assets had supported Harvey to his present position. Therefore, even if Sterling had acted recklessly, it only depleted the capital umted over the years. Harvey''s core assets were not significantly damaged. However, it was true that he was in desperate need of funds to keep things running. Given a little more time, Harvey could recover his losses.


    Thinking about Harvey''s extravagant wealth, a glint appeared in Quincy''s eyes as she spoke with an unusual sense of maturity and cleverness.


    "Mr. Harvey, my mother and I are left with no choice. We didn''t do it on purpose..." Quincy''s words of grievance did manage to slightly soften Harvey''s heart. After all, she was his only daughter.


    "How about this?" Quincy forced a


    smile. "I''ll ask my mother to divorce Benedict as soon as possible, and then if you can provide us a ce to stay, that be enough, Mr. Harvey We promise to keep a low profile, not cause a fuss, and not bring you any trouble. We only hope that you can take us in. Otherwise, when Calista exposes me, my mother and I will not only be homeless, but we will also lose our reputationpletely."

 Chapter 245 Unite Against A Common Threat

    "Calista again! D*mn it! Are they doing this on purpose? Are they trying to drive me to my grave?" Upon hearing Quincy''s words, Harvey swept everything off the table, creating a thunderous crash. Yet, even that could not quell his raging fury! "The Fairchild family and I are


    irreconcble!"


    After he had recklessly vented his temper, he noticed the fearful expressions on the faces of the two women before him. Consequently, he fell silent, maintaining a stern expression.


    Perhaps it was because Quincy appeared so pitiful at the moment, or maybe it was due to theirmon threat that Harvey felt a sense of unity. After giving it some thought, he surprisingly agreed right at that critical moment! "All right... Given the circumstances you''re in, I can''t just turn a blind eye. However, I must inconvenience you by having you return to your family home for a few days. Rest assured, I don''t actually n to adopt Kieran. How could one truly bond with someone they''re not rted to, regardless of how much they try? I''m merely using him. Once this period passes, I will deal with him and treat you two right."


    Having received Harvey''s assurance and knowing that her position was not in jeopardy, Quincy felt her mood improved significantly. She quickly responded, "I won''t cause any trouble for you, Mr. Harvey!"


    Yelena knew that was the moment she had to show her sincerity. "In that case, Harvey, I''ll go home right now and file for divorce!"


    After she finished speaking, her face disyed a look of grievance, but then sheughed with joy. "I never thought in my lifetime that you would ept me, Harvey. I finally don''t have to put up with that weakling, Benedict, anymore! Oh, Harvey... I''m so happy!" Upon receiving Yelena''s flirtatious nces and the strong sense of longing in her voice, Harvey felt his mood greatly improved. "All right, keep the divorce matter low-key. Just say you made a mistake. I assume once Benedict realizes that Quincy is my child, he won''t dare to argue with you."Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Aside from Yelena, Harvey also disdained Benedict. Once this matter is easily settled, Yelena will return to her parent''s home. Even if Kyven finds out, I can easily im ignorance.


    However, he hadn''t expected that a private detective had snapped quite a few photographs the moment Yelena took Quincy to hispany. After Yelena and Benedict divorced, Kallum sent these pictures to Kyven and even had a personal chat with him. Meanwhile, Calista wasforting Benedict.


    Over the past few days, Benedict felt as if he were living in a dream. His idea of happiness was simple. He desired some wealth, a dependable support system, a capable wife, and then to spend his days cherishing his two daughters. Just a few days ago, Yelena suddenly told him she wanted a divorce, and furthermore, she intended to take Quincy with her.


    Benedict thought Yelena had lost her mind! After all, he thought he had been good to her. When the scandal from a year ago happened, and she was even suspected of framing Callie, he forgave her. Thus, he didn''t understand why she wanted a divorce. However, when Benedict discovered the truth, he realized that it wasn''t her who was crazy. It was himself.


    He couldn''t believe he had unknowingly raised someone else''s daughter for eighteen years!


    Inevitably, the two ended up divorcing. Being a person who cared deeply about his reputation, Benedict found himself in a tough spot. After all, he wasn''t a member of the Fairchild family and he certainly couldn''t afford to cross Harvey.


    "Callie... Callie, why did she treat me like this? Where did I go wrong that she had to hurt me like this?" Benedict became extremely agitated.


    Because of Harvey, he couldn''t publicize such a scandal. He had no choice but to suffer in silence.


    Even though he was so angry he could spit blood, he never once considered asking Calista to plead with Kallum to take revenge on his behalf.


    Perhaps for a fleeting moment, he


    had contemted going down with Yelena. However, as soon as rationality kicked in, he recognized the disparity between their families and backed off. Coupled with his innate aversion to troubling others or asking for help, he would rather suffer in silence than involve others in his affairs.


    One could say he was self-aware, yet it could also make him seem contemptible. However, Calista saw Benedict as simply too kind-hearted. It wasn''t that he was unaware of the resources he held in his hands. He had just never considered using them to harm others. The more Benedict thought about it, the more something seemed off to him. His brows furrowed tightly as he suddenly asked, "Do you think that Yelena genuinely mistook me for someone else? Why do I feel like she intentionally got me drunk and set me up all those years ago?"


    If Yelena hadn''t divorced him, he


    would never have questioned whether the incident of him sleeping with her while drunk was a setup. Yet, Yelena imed that before they were together, she had spent a night with Harvey, and then the very next day Benedict took advantage of her inebriated state. Compounding the situation, she married him only after the scandal had blown up, only to discoverter that the child she was carrying was Harvey''s.


    As such, Harvey wasn''t sure if he could trust her.


    Perhaps Yelena was pregnant back then, but since Harvey didn''t want her, she intentionally manipted the situation. When Harvey thought of that, he felt like he had been toyed with by Yelena for eighteen long years! The mere thought of it was terrifying to him!


    Calista had dismissed all the


    housekeepers, recing them with a


    few honest and straightforward ones. Without the mother and daughter in the house, she felt the air had be much fresher, Upon hearing Benedict''s question, Calista responded softly. "Dad, I know this might hurt you, but it''s clear from the beginning that Yelena had set you up."


    Benedict paled due to her words, evidently taking a significant blow! He was clutching his own hair with both hands, appearing as if he had aged ten years in an instant! "Why? She didn''t necessarily have to say it..." After his fit of rage, Benedict revealed a sorrowful expression. If Yelena hadn''t spoken up, he might have remained clueless for the rest of his life. Why did she have to say it?

 Chapter 246 Incredibly Foolish

    Calista''s smile was somewhat frosty. "It''s because they could return to Harvey''s side and because he is wealthier and more influential than you. It''s as simple as that."


    Benedict thought about Yelena''s character, and it was evident that she was indeedpetitive. Perhaps, just as Callie had suggested, it was Harvey who had previously rejected her. Since Harvey showed interest, Yelena naturally sought to rise to the asion. What about Quincy? Benedict''s gaze was filled withplexity. Even though Quincy was not his biological daughter, she was the girl he had favored for over a decade. The one at fault was Yelena, so it was difficult for him to sever his feelings for Quincy in a short span of time.


    Thus, he asked a question that, in Calista''s view, was incredibly foolish. "Do you think... Will Quincye back?"


    Finally, Calista couldn''t help butugh.


    Herughter was chilling, her gaze gradually sharpening.


    Observing Benedict, who was deeply tormented and utterly disoriented, she asked slowly, "Are you serious?"


    Cupping a cup in her hands that she hadn''t taken a single sip from, she inquired in a slow, surprised tone, "Do you get a kick out of raising someone else''s child? Is that why you want to continue?"


    Though Calista hadn''t uttered a single harsh word, her voice and demeanor exuded an air of ridicule, which finally brought Benedict to his senses and left him a bit shaken with retrospective fear. What have I just said? I can''t believe I have the audacity to say such things in front of Callie.


    Calista stared at him coldly. Outside, the sun shone brightly, but inside the room, it felt as if ice had enveloped everything.


    "Now, I finally understand why Grandma and Grandpa chose to live in the mountains rather than face you." Calista sneered, "Both of them were dominant throughout their lives, and that''s probably why you ended up being so weak. Their biggest mistake in life was raising you to be too naive, and by the time they realized it, it was already toote. You know, I really pity you. Would you dare to repeat those words at their graves?"


    Benedict paled as he stared at her, dumbfounded. Isn''t it human nature to feel this way? I''d feel attached even if I was raising a dog, much less a daughter I thought was mine for years. How could I just let go so easily?


    It seemed as if Calista understood Benedict''s thoughts and sneered, "If you''d put a little more thought into it, you''d realize what your standing is in Quincy''s heart. Yes, she''s very obedient in front of you, and you like that. However, have you considered this? If Yelena knew from the start whose child Quincy was, and she hadn''t initially nned to reunite Quincy with her biological family, why has she suddenly changed her mind now?"


    Benedict understood what Calista meant. His lips turned pale instantly.


    Calista continued ruthlessly, "It''s because Quincy had discovered her true identity and realized she was the sole heiress of the Wolford family. She insisted that Yelena take her to reunite her with her true father. In other words, you, as her stand-in father, held no ce in her heart."


    Benedict''s eyes flickered. He stammered for a while, yet he was unwilling to face reality.


    "Since your divorce, has Quincy ever called you? Could Yelena really manipte Quincy? If you''re making up such excuses for her, aren''t you being a bit too naive? Is it so hard to face the truth? The reality is that you''ve been manipted by a woman for eighteen years. The daughter you''ve painstakingly raised and dearly loved doesn''t care about you one bit!"


    "No!" Benedict was finally in despair! He couldn''t believe he failed so miserably in life. However, the harsh reality was right in front of his eyes, bloody and brutallyid bare for him to see!


    "Dad, I must say, your kindness


    would be fitting for an ordinary


    household. However, in your current


    position, such kindness will be your downfall. From the moment you stubbornly decided to take


    ???


    responsibility for Yelena, Grandpa and Grandma lost all hope in you. They foresaw your downfall, yet you were too stubborn, only trusting what you could see with your own eyes. They were deeply disappointed in you, so they retreated to the mountains, preferring to be out of sight, out of mind. Even I''m quite disappointed in you, too." Calista''s words finally made Benedict calm down but also left him feeling dispirited. Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He closed his eyes, struggling to speak. "Humans are emotional creatures. I''m just having a hard time epting it at first. You''re right. I was naive to think so highly of everyone. If I continue like this, it''ll be the death of me!"


    "You better remember the words you''re uttering now. Remember how,pared to your reluctant nostalgia, Quincy cheerfully and swiftly took all her belongings away. She doesn''t miss you." These words from Calista finally made Benedict''s gaze grow steadily colder. After all those years, it seemed he had truly cherished the wrong person. He finally realized Quincy was no different from Yelena!


    Moreover, he understood he couldn''t continue being so naive.


    Concurrently, after receiving the photo and having a discussion with Kallum, Kyven shockingly disregarded his brotherly bond and was determined to withdraw his investment!


    Harvey assumed that Kyven''s


    decision to withdraw the investment was due to Yelena. Thus, he brought up the excuse that they had agreed on earlier and ryed it to Kyven.. "Whether Yelena gets divorced or not has nothing to do with me! Since I''ve already agreed with you to adopt Kieran, I won''t go back on my word."


    Like Harvey, Kyven was fat. At that moment, Kyven patted his own belly, and with a cold chuckle, he asked, "Do you think I''m stupid?"

 Chapter 247 Selling Off Asset

    Harvey was taken aback.


    "I suppose you''re nning to rob me blind, then do away with Kieran, aren''t you? I used to think that, being family, you wouldn''t stoop so low. To think I trusted you. I won''t fall for your words anymore. I''m pulling my investment immediately!" Harvey started to panic, forcing himself to let out a couple of stiff, uneasy chuckles. "Kyven, our agreement has already been made. Without your money, I''d have to sell off the assets or else I''d go bankrupt! You''re pushing me into a corner here!" Upon hearing that, Kyven eximed in shock, "You''re actually thinking of selling off the assets? Those do not only belong to you! How dare you!"


    Even though Harvey was secretly panicking, he spoke with a half-smile. "I do. If you insist on forcing me, I''m left with no other choice but to act this way. You can''t stop me either because I''m still the head of the Wolford family!"


    The color drained from Kyven''s face in an instant!


    Harvey softened his tone once again, saying, "Of course, that''s myst resort. I genuinely want to coborate with you, and I truly want to take care of Kieran. Don''t let others stir up trouble between us."


    Kyven gritted his teeth in silence, reflecting on the fact that he and Harvey would either rise or fall together. After a moment of contemtion, he spoke up ruthlessly. "All right then. You must call a family meeting tonight. Prepare your will, stating that you cannot acknowledge Quincy as your own for the rest of your life. Also, you need to add one more condition. If Kieran dies, you must step down from your position as head of the family! If not, consider our conversation over!"


    At that point, Harvey was seething with anger. Forced into such a corner, he felt not only fury but also a profound sense of helplessness. Despite living for so many years, he was astounded to find himself in a situation where he was utterly at a loss.


    Kallum was truly a force to be reckoned with, having surpassed the older generation. At the start, Kallum tricked Sterling into buying a worthless piece ofnd. Then, as time passed, his calcted moves had dealt a devastating blow to the Wolford family, all within a span of just one year.


    A single year had obliterated the umtion of over a decade of Harvey''s life! Not to mention, it was done with such a casual attitude.


    Harvey, weary, shook his head. Looking into Kyven''s eyes, he understood. He could no longer entertain his petty schemes. For his own sake, Yelena and Quincy had to be sacrificed. Either way, he could afford to support two women, but they were destined never to be able to step into the public eye again.


    In the end, the two brothers finally came to an agreement. They would discreetly hold a family meeting that night.


    At that point, even if Quincy truly wanted to behave modestly and keep a low profile, it was no longer possible unless they were willing to be sacrificed.


    At the Langley residence, Quincy received a call from Calista, her voice filled with unease. "Is what you''re saying true?"


    "Why would I lie to you?" Calista seemed to be taking a shower. The faint sound of water could still be heard on her end.


    "Harvey will be signing the


    agreement tonight, and there''s an


    additional use in it. If Kieran dies, Harvey has to relinquish his position as the head of the family. In other words, once this agreement is signed tonight, Kieran will be Harvey''s sole heir. Meanwhile, you''ll forever remain an illegitimate daughter with no inheritance rights, even worse off than before." Seeing that Quincy was silent, Calista continued to speak. "Of course, you''re so understanding, so you definitely wouldn''t want to put your new dad in a difficult position, right? Anyway, even if you can''t be his daughter, he will still take care of you. You don''t have to worry about that."


    Quincy''s fingers dug into her flesh anxiously. She had hurriedly urged Yelena to divorce, but it certainly wasn''t to be a shameful illegitimate daughter!


    A somewhat mysteriousughter from Calista echoed from the other end of the phone. "However, if things end up that way, you''ll never be able to surpass me in your lifetime. I could easily end you when the timees. Is this the life you want?"


    With a sense of regret, Calista finally


    said, "Harvey really baffles me. Yes, acknowledging you might cause him some loss and trouble, but you''re his only daughter. He''s being incredibly heartless. If I were in your shoes, I would''ve caused a scene before he could sign that agreement, forcing him to acknowledge you. Even if he must sacrifice something because of you, he''ll still be a rich and


    influential figure, won''t he?"


    After Calista finished speaking, she hung up the phone with a chuckle. To be honest, it was quite amusing to have her adversary dancing in the palm of her hand like this.


    After putting down her phone, Quincy found it hard to regain herposure for quite some time. I''m being abandoned? Before, Harvey assured me he''d acknowledge me as his daughter after some time. Now, he seems ready to give up on me in the blink of an eye!


    Quincy shared the matter with Yelena, who also realized the gravity of the situation. Harvey signing such an agreement clearly showed he didn''t care about her well-being at all!


    When the time came, she was certain to be theughingstock of Horington. Neither the mother nor the daughter could stand for that. They had given up on the Stafford family to reach that point, so they simply couldn''t ept such an oue!


    Finally, Yelena sought help from her father. If she could be part of the Wolford family, the Langley family would also benefit. In her opinion, there was no reason why he wouldn''t assist them at that critical moment.


    The head of the Langley family, Matthew, who was also the father of Yelena, was in his sixties or seventies. Yet, his eyes remained as sharp as ever.


    "You''re right. We can''t let HarveyContent ? N?velDrama.Org.


    sign this agreement!" Matthew''s face was extremely gloomy. "Over the years, although the Wolford family has taken care of us, we''ve also done quite a bit for them. Now, if he signs this agreement and disowns Quincy for life, then it''ll be as if our Langley family and the Wolford family have severed all ties. Therefore, we cannot allow him to sign this agreement!"

 Chapter 248 Bombarding Calls

    Yelena asked with a sense of urgency, "But we can''t expose ourselves and break the agreement. Otherwise, Harvey will surely resent us. What can we do to make Harvey have no choice but to acknowledge us?" Matthew wore a cunning smile. "Then we''ll just have to make an ident!"


    Thus, before Harvey even signed the agreement, a major news story broke out in Horington!


    Countless phone calls were bombarding the Wolford residence! The members of the Wolford family, gathered together due to an agreement, were exchanging nces until the assistant picked up the phone and switched on the speaker. "Mr. Harvey! We''re in trouble! Quincy has been kidnapped at Horington''s bridge. The kidnappers specifically demanded to meet you in person. They threatened to kill Quincy if you don''t show up!"


    Harvey couldn''t even react before the person on the other end continued to speak. "Moreover, in her panic, Quincy revealed that she is your daughter. With many reporters present, the Fairchild family timely released a DNA test report between you and Quincy. Now, all the reporters are eagerly waiting for you to make an appearance, Mr. Harvey!"


    Upon hearing the voice on the phone, Kyven could no longer hold back his roar! "Harvey! Are you doing this intentionally? If you don''t want to sign, then don''t sign. Is creating such a scandal to force us, the Wolford family, to acknowledge Quincy your goal?" "I didn''t-"


    Harvey finally understood what it felt like to be terribly stressed. He was seething with resentment toward Yelena and Quincy. He hadn''t expected them to cause such a disaster at such a crucial moment!


    "You didn''t? Well, go exin that to the reporters! Either way, I''m pulling out my funding! I''m out!" Kyven mmed the table with a thunderous roar. Then, he left with Kieran, scowling. It seemed that no matter what Harvey would say, Kyven was determined to withdraw his investment.


    The other brothers exchanged nces, all feeling that Kyven was incredibly unlucky. They were relieved that they were not the ones who had negotiated with Harvey at the time, otherwise, they would suffer a huge loss.


    As the shareholders began to leave one by one, it seemed that the agreement for the night was about to fall through. Spection swirled in their hearts that if the situation escted, Harvey might very well lose his position as the head of the family. Strictly speaking, that wasn''t a good oue, but given the circumstances, it was better for Harvey to face the consequences alone than for them all to go down together.


    "Well... What do we do now, Mr. Harvey? The journalists are still waiting..." the assistant asked hesitantly, only to be met with Harvey''s murderous gaze.


    "What should we do? Tell Quincy to drop dead!" Naturally, Harvey couldn''t actually let Quincy die.


    With so many journalists present, if word got out that he didn''t even save his only daughter, he''d lose his standing.


    However, his act of rescuing would be tantamount to admitting that Quincy was his daughter, and Kyven would certainly do everything possible to withdraw his investment. If he agreed, for the sake of thatrge sum of money, Kyven would definitely fight him to the end! Indeed, venturing into Horington was the most foolish decision Harvey had made in his entire life!


    In the car, Calista gazed at the tumultuous scene unfolding at the bridge''s end and shook her head. "This has to be Matthew''s doing. This is definitely going to infuriate Harvey."


    Kallum had a mysterious smile. "Regardless, after today, I intend to tear the Wolford family apart and reduce their reputation to dust. It seems now, all it needs is a little more fuel to the fire."


    Calista chuckled lightly. "Well, I guess I''ll just sit back and enjoy the show then..."


    Quincy was sobbing uncontrobly, filled with regret.


    Matthew had insisted that she must take a drastic measure. Only then could she force Harvey to acknowledge her. Moreover, to avoid arousing Harvey''s suspicion that it was all a set-up, Matthew had sought out a genuine enemy who harbored a deep grudge against Harvey. Therefore, she was truly in danger!


    "Where is he? Where''s Harvey? He''s


    abandoned his own daughter?" The man who had kidnapped Quincy was once a small business owner.


    Thanks to Harvey, he was drowning in debt. Not only that, his marriage had copsed, and his family was torn apart. He never had the opportunity before, but he finally managed to get his hands on Harvey''s daughter. Hence, he was determined to make Harvey pay!


    The police had them surrounded but dared not to make a move rashly. The man, who looked like a vagrant, held a knife tightly against Quincy''s throat. News had broken out from the Fairchild family that Quincy was the daughter of Harvey. If anything were to happen to the only daughter of the head of the Wolford family in Horington, the police would be in deep trouble.


    The police were surrounded by a swarm of journalists. Encounters with high-profile gossip like that were notmon, so naturally, they were not willing to let the opportunity slip by. Initially, the. police were nning to disperse the journalists forcibly, but when Kallum saw that, he immediately made a call to tell the police to leave the reporters alone. If there were too few journalists at the scene that


    night, he was even prepared to invite more to lend support to the


    spectacle.


    With the invisible backing of the Fairchild family, the reporters were more determined than ever to stay. They swarmed around the already mentally fragile kidnapper. Their camera shes unrelenting.


    The individual who had kidnapped Quincy was named Owen Hayes, and his body was tense with anxiety. The mor around him sent him into a state of panic. There were many people below, yet none of them were the one he was searching for. "Where is he? Where is Behind him, the turbulent sea roared, and under the wild wind, the thin rain became piercingly sharp. He looked wild, a hint of fatalism in his eyes, and his grip on Quincy''s hand tightened more and more.


    he? Summon Harvey to see me!"


    He had made up his mind. Even if someone were to take him down, he would still jump into the sea with Quincy in his arms!Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Calm down!" The case wasplex and left the police in quite a predicament. "We''ve been informed that Mr. Wolford will be here shortly, so please stay calm!"

 Chapter 249 Harvey Arrived

    "I need to see him!" Owen''s roar was shattered by the wind. It was clear that, under the scrutiny of so many people, he was on the verge of mental copse.


    "Why hasn''t Mr. Wolford arrived yet? He wouldn''t really disregard the life or death of his own daughter, would he?" In the midst of the storm, the reporter carefully shielded his equipment while grumbling.


    "It wasn''t necessarily certain that she was his daughter. Perhaps his absence was because he doubted she was his daughter?" Someone voiced a small doubt.


    "How could that be?" His colleague gave him a nce. "This news came from the Fairchild family. This Quincy was originally thought to be a child of the Stafford family. However, a few days ago, it was revealed that she''s not of the Stafford family but rather from the Wolford family. It''s no secret that Harvey has fertility issues. If the Fairchild family released the DNA test report, they must be confident!"


    "True, Mr. Kallum isn''t the type to act without thinking..."


    Sounds of that nature were drowned out in the bustling crowd. The bridge had been engulfed by a sea of people and vehicles, causing a massive traffic jam. However, even the negotiation expert was helpless in the face of the kidnapper, who was on the verge of a nervous breakdown.


    Harvey arrived at that very moment.


    He had no choice but toe. He could deny that Quincy was his child, but due to his medical condition, many hospitals had samples of his blood. For the Fairchild family, bribing the hospitals was not a difficult task. Moreover, the Fairchild family had already produced a blood test report. If he didn''t show up, he would only face even worse consequences.


    "He''s here," Calista said, a hint of excitement in her voice. She sat in the car, watching as the crowd parted to form a small pathway. Through it, Harvey emerged.


    Upon seeing the swarm of reporters still present, Harvey grimaced. He barked at the police, "What are you guys doing? Just sitting around and doing nothing? There''s a crowd of reporters blocking the way, and you''re not doing anything?" The leading officer subtly dered with a serious expression, "This matter... It''s from higher up."


    In other words, the officer was saying that Harvey had offended someone he shouldn''t have, so he shouldn''t take it out on them.


    Harvey hadn''t anticipated the Fairchild family would go to such lengths. At that moment, he truly wanted to curse out loud, but he couldn''t. He wasn''t even sure he could stand against the Fairchild family in Summerbank, let alone in Horington.


    With that thought, Harvey found himself growing increasingly agitated, struggling to catch his breath. He tugged at his tie, a dark thought crossing his mind. If only that d*mn kidnapper had perished with Quincy, that would have been the best solution... However, I doubt that the matter will go away even if Quincy is dead.


    Harvey was engulfed by despair. At that moment, he deeply regretted provoking Kallum. If he could turn back time, he would never have taken advantage of Kallum''s vulnerable moment when Sterling attacked him. Instead of kicking Kallum when he was down, Harvey thought he should''ve epted his losses after Sterling''s death and worked on rebuilding his rtionship with Kallum.


    His mind was a jumbled mess, yet he found himself steadily moving to the forefront.


    "Mr. Harvey!" Quincy''s voice was hoarse from crying. She didn''t seem to be pretending. Harvey couldn''t help but wonder if Quincy was truly unaware and was perhaps just an innocent caught up in someone else''s hatred toward him. There''s no way this is a coincidence. Harvey scoffed inwardly. No matter how furious or exhausted he felt inside, he couldn''t let any of it show.


    "I''m here now. If you need something, juste to me. Why kidnap her?" As Harvey finally arrived, everyone quieted down. To be honest, that wasn''t a matter the policemen and reporters could get involved in. They were merely bystanders.


    Quincy wanted to say something more, but Owen covered her mouth before she could.


    Owen had been waiting for a long time, and when he finally saw Harvey arrive, he surprisingly burst into tears! His face was a mix of rain and tears, his tense body slightly trembling under the wild wind and bridge lights. In contrast to Harvey''s somewhat cold gaze, he appeared somewhat pitiful. "You finally decided to show up! A whole year has passed, and despite all my efforts, I couldn''t see you. Harvey, you''re something else, aren''t you? To think you have the audacity toe see me now..."


    Under the scrutinizing gaze of a group of journalists, Harvey was not in the mood to engage in much conversation because he had recalled who Owen was. As such he knew that if Owen continued to ramble on, the situation would undoubtedly escte. "Enough! I was the one who wronged you in the past. What do you want? Money? I can give it to you. Release... Release my daughter!" R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Owen could clearly hear the impatience in Harvey''s voice. Aside from his tears, Owen also gritted his teeth. "Even if I have your daughter, you still refuse to admit your mistakes? I don''t want anything else. I just want you to confess your crimes!"


    His voice was getting louder and


    louder! "I''ve always been a


    me. If it weren''t for theck of


    evidence, I''d still be in jail. Howe


    the arms dealers didn''t get paid, and the goods were seized by the police, so they all came after me. My wife took our child and fled, and my parents are dead! All my assets were confiscated, and in the end, I was left with a mountain of debt! I''m on the verge of being driven to my grave! Yet, you wouldn''t even meet me..."


    His voice choked with emotion, yet his grip on Quincy''s hand didn''t loosen in the slightest. "What do you think I want? Money? Can money buy life? I don''t want anything. All I want is for you to kneel down and admit your mistakes! Kneel to me now!"

 Chapter 250 Drag Quincy To Death

    Harvey hadn''t expected Owen to blurt it all out like that. He started to regret going there, but he had no choice! He felt as if he had fallen into a deep abyss filled with traps. Could all of this have been arranged by Kallum? If it was, then... Harvey was somewhat afraid to delve deeper into that thought. "What are you bbering about?" For Harvey, admitting it was out of the question. With so many reporters quietly filming, he had already be aughing stock nationwide. To bring his mistakes into the limelight would simply be a death wish!


    "I have no idea what you''re talking about. Just let my daughter go already!" Harvey''s expression was filled with urgency.


    At that moment, he desperately wished for Owen to drag Quincy to death recklessly.


    "Ha! Harvey, are you scared now?" Owen suddenlyughed through his tears. He pulled out a sealed manuscript from his embrace. "Here are the copies of the contract from our original deal and the recording of the phone call I made to you. Back in Summerbank, the evidence I submitted disappeared without a trace, forcing me to take the me for you. Now, with so many people around, I refuse to believe that justice won''t be served!"


    The reporters silently snapped photos of Owen, their curiosity piqued by the evidence he presented. With them around, the police couldn''t afford to be lenient once they received the evidence. After all, the eyes of the entire nation were watching!


    Despite the chill, cold sweat trickled down Harvey''s forehead. He abruptly realized that Owen''s appearance was no coincidence. The Langley family isn''t behind this! This is likely the handiwork of Kallum! I need to say something!


    "Owen! Are you trying to pin your own misdeeds on me?" Driven to desperation, Harvey decided to provoke Owen! Owen seemed emotionally unstable, so Harvey thought it would be best if he could push the former over the edge!


    Thus, Harvey feigned agitation and said, "It''s clear that you''re the cunning one, taking advantage of me renting your boat to smuggle weapons. Then, when you got caught, you tried to pin it all on me! How could you be so malicious? Your parents'' deaths are on you! This is your own doing. You drove them to their deaths!"


    "Shut up! Shut up! I said shut up!" With every word Harvey didn''t utter, Owen''s eyes grew redder. Eventually, Quincy let out a terrified whimper, for Owen''s knife tip had already pricked her neck!


    Just do it already! Harvey stared intently at the dagger in Owen''s hand, hoping thetter would just plunge it in. If Owenmitted murder, then he would be the ultimate viin!


    Harvey''s mind was in turmoil, and his words were just as confrontational. "Why should I keep quiet? Back then, the police didn''t ept your evidence. They discovered that you were using my boat rental service to smuggle your own goods. You got what you deserved! It''s clear that the reason those people came to you and not me is because you were the one dealing with them, secretly trafficking weapons"


    "Harvey!" Owen suddenly interrupted Harvey''s words with a loud shout. His eyes were bloodshot as if he was about to weep tears of blood! "Aren''t you scared of being haunted in your dreams by saying things like that?"


    Seeing Owen growing increasingly agitated, everyone present began to feel uneasy. They realized that Harvey seemed to be deliberately provoking the kidnapper. Astonishingly, it would seem he valued his own reputation over even his own daughter''s life! The police officer couldn''t stand by any longer and stepped forward to intervene. "Mr. Wolford, please, don''t provoke "


    Before he could finish his sentence, Harvey forcefully pushed the officer away. At that point, he was truly agitated. Pushed to such an extent, he didn''t care about anyone else anymore! As long as he survived, that was enough for him.


    Thus, he sneered at Owen. "Why


    should I be afraid? What does your parents'' death have to do with me? They died because of you! It''s because of your stupidity that they''re gone! Why me others


    when you''re the uselessne


    Look


    at yourself now. You''re as repulsive as a sewer bug. Even if your parents were alive, you''d drive them to their graves with your behavior!"


    "Enough!" Owen was indeed provoked, "Enough, you b*stard!" He was retreating step by step and was on the verge of falling, almost about to drag Quincy down with him! Seeing Owen like that, Harvey relentlessly pressed on.


    "You''re still in the dark, aren''t you? Don''t you wonder why you can''t find your wife and child who supposedly ran away from home? The truth is, they didn''t leave willingly. They were taken by the same people who came to your house for debt collection! As for your wife, who knows which r¨¦d-light district she''s found herself in now? As for your son, I''m afraid he might have been killed by those people and had his kidneys sold!"


    Owen''s eyes widened in disbelief! That''s not true! My wife and son had merely left me. They are still alive and well in this world. They...


    "Do you think I''m lying to you?" Harvey gave a gloomyugh. "If you go to Paradise Avenue now, you''ll find out that I was there once. I even had an encounter with your wife!"


    Owen was on the brink of madness! Quincy, in his grip, could palpably sense his rage. Blood was streaming down her neck, and she felt as if death was imminent!


    At that point, her resentment toward Harvey had reached its peak. Others might have simply suspected that Harvey had acted foolishly and then blurted out an even more provocative truth after being provoked at that critical moment. However, Quincy was certain that Harvey did it on purpose and truly intended to kill her!


    Quincy was filled with regret.


    Benedict might not have been


    particrly useful, but he had


    always doted on her since she was a child, never uttering a harsh word to her.


    She had assumed that eveR¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    in the world was as easy to handle as Benedict. However, Harvey''s ruthlessness made her realize the terrifying aspect of human nature, a terror that brought her to the brink of despair!


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 251 Forgotten About Me

    "You forced me into this! You forced me!" Owen shouted as he pulled Quincy back, retreating. He would have preferred to kill Harvey, but the distance was too great. He knew he couldn''t reach Harvey, so the only option left was to kill Harvey''s daughter. Upon seeing him retreat, Harvey''s eyes lit up. Yet, his face was filled with an expression of urgency.


    "What are you nning to do? If you want to end your life, do it on your own and let my daughter go! She''s my only child, do you intend to let me be heirless?"


    The word "heirless" deeply provoked Owen. He threw his head back in a cold, scornful chuckle, which eventually escted into a heartyugh.


    "Yes, yes, yes! I almost forgot, you can''t have children anymore! Hahaha, you wished for my family''s downfall... I wish you to be heirless!"Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    As he spoke, he was about to leap down with Quincy in his arms. At that moment, Harvey held his breath.


    "If you really took the leap, then you would be falling right into his trap."


    A cool female voice came through, inexplicably extinguishing Owen''s raging fury. It felt as if a bucket of cold water had been dumped over his head, preserving Owen''s precarious sanity.


    The crowd was parted by a group of bodyguards dressed in ck. Calista, clutching her umbre, made her way from behind. Her ck attire almost blended with the night, and under the light, her face was strikingly pale. The contrast of ck and white, mysterious and dangerous, slowly approached.


    Upon seeing her, Harvey couldn''t help but take a few steps back. He knew who Calista was, even though he had never met her before.


    Initially, Calista had no intention ofing out, as she didn''t want to interact with this group of detestable people. However, witnessing Owen driven to the brink of suicide, she gave it some thought and decided to step in personally.


    Initially, Kallum had refused, but Calista was insistent. They hade this far, and for the final push, she wanted to be the one to see it through.


    When Owenid eyes on Calista, it was as if a me met ice, instantly cooling his fervor. He watched her warily, uncertain whether she was there to aid him or to side with Harvey.


    Beneath the gently falling rain, Calista slightly curved her lips, speaking to Owen, "I''m here to help you. The reason why there are so many reporters here is because I called them. The fact that you''ve been able to perform here for so long without being taken away is also due to my tacit approval. So, you''d better stay calm. Otherwise, you won''t get to see your enemy''s downfall."


    With each word she uttered, Harvey''s face grew paler. Yet, he had been the head of a prominent family for many years. After Calista stepped out, Harvey''s bodyguards subtly closed in, boosting his confidence slightly.


    He questioned Calista with a stern and intimidating demeanor, despite being scared himself, "Miss, are you implying that you intend to openly oppose my family? What gives you the right to say such things?"


    He tried to intimidate Calista with the authority of a family head. In his eyes, without the constant support of Kallum, this woman was nothing to be feared.


    But how could Calista be afraid of him? Not to mention the imposing Parker Guards behind Calista, who were even more intimidating than Harvey''s men. As for Calista herself, she was a woman who had endured three years of hell without giving up, a lunatic who had been forced to fight back against all her enemies with her own strength, starting from an innocent girl who knew nothing. Her aura was stronger than Harvey''s, more fierce, and sharper!


    Calista chuckled softly.


    "What right? I was once Quincy''s sister and the adopted daughter of the Fairchild family. I wonder, do these identities grant me the right to stand here?"


    Seeing that Calista was not easy to deal with, the faint aura of danger around her even sent chills down his own spine. Harvey''s face darkened, his confidence waning even further.


    He took a deep breath, his eyes dark and sharp, carrying an implicit threat. He questioned her loudly, "So, you''re here challenging the Wolford family. Is this the intention of the Staffords, or the Fairchilds? Do you think you can represent both families?"


    He deliberately sneered, switching to a dismissive look as he gazed at Calista. It was as though he was telling her she was incapable of taking charge, and that she should get lost quickly.


    Calista''s starry gaze gradually fell upon him. Everywhere she looked, it seemed as though the drizzle had transformed into frost, sending involuntary shivers down others'' spine.


    "You''re mistaken," she dered. "I stand here, not by the Staffords'' decision, nor by the Fairchild family''s will, but by my own choice. I am here, single-handedly challenging you. You may interpret this as, I''m here to settle a score with you."


    Her words,ced with a smile, stirred


    up a wave ofmotion. The reporters went wild. Wasn''t this the same girl who had been publicly proposed to by Kallum Fairchild?


    She had the audacity to open


    challenge the Wolford family, and that was no ordinary family. After all, it was the Wolford family from Summerbank. Although they were not on par with the Fairchild family, would Kallum just let her go around making enemies?


    However, considering that the influence of the Fairchild family was evident everywhere tonight, it seemed that Kallum truly indulged her beyond all reason, letting her act as she pleased.


    Suddenly, Harvey felt a wave of panic... He had this overwhelming sense that he was going to fall t on his face here tonight.


    He opened his mouth, intending to maintain his fierce expression. But what he didn''t know was that his feeble demeanor had already given him away.


    "Did... Did we ever have a problem?"


    Although his wordscked


    assertiveness, he felt suppressed by


    Calista''s intimidating aura. He


    suddenly didn''t want to do anything. He just hoped to get through the day unscathed... But since Calista was here, it was impossible for Kallum not to be. He felt like a trapped bird. With Kallum controlling the situation and Calista fueling the fire, he could no longer predict how things would unfold.


    "Celebrating?" Calista nced at Owen, who was nervously watching them and gave a slight smile. "I''m just like him, left with nothing because of you. Do you have so many enemies that you''ve forgotten about me?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 252 You Cannot Stop Me

    In the calm, almost indifferent gaze of Calista, Owen perceived a madness and hatred mirroring his own inner turmoil. Suddenly, he understood that Calista was there to aid him. In fact, one could say that his progress that evening was due to the help of others. This


    realization brought him a sudden sense of relief. The only task left for him was to control Quincy.


    Harvey was utterly baffled. There was a slightmotion among the journalists. It was clear that they too were clueless about what had transpired.


    "When did I ever cause the ruin of your family-"


    Before Harvey could finish his sentence, Yelena cut him off.


    "Quincy!" She had always been here, out of concern. When she saw Owen trying to harm Quincy earlier, she wanted to rush out but was restrained at the crucial moment. Only now was she released.


    Upon seeing Yelena, tears welled up once again in Quincy''s eyes, which had previously been dried out from crying. Among all these people, the only one she could rely on was Yelena.


    Upon seeing Quincy, covered in blood and held hostage, Yelena could no longer contain her fury and roared at Harvey.


    "What on earth are you doing? Are you deliberately trying to drive Quincy to her death? She''s your only daughter! How could you be so heartless?" When she was first tied up, her captor didn''t take her away. Instead, he intentionally let her witness how Harvey was gradually sacrificing Quincy. One could say that Yelena''s anger had reached its peak.


    One by one, people who shouldn''t have shown up started to arrive. Harvey was repeatedly pushed back, his heart filled with panic and his breath short. In his desperation, he even considered faking an illness. Just as Harvey was about to faint, Calista suddenly let out a cold chuckle.


    "Mr. Wolford, you''d better stick around. If you leave now, I might say something uncontrobleter, and you won''t be able to stop me."


    With just a single sentence, she had Harvey so flustered that he felt like fainting. He leaned on his substantial belly, panting non-stop, and when he looked at Calista, his eyes held a hint of pleading.


    "Ms. Stafford, I believe there was no animosity between us. The one who had a grudge with you was Sterling, but he''s already dead! There''s no resentment between us, so... could you... please spare me..."


    "Spare you? Mr. Wolford, since you can''t seem to remember, allow me to have a serious talk with you."


    Swinging her umbre around, Calista addressed the reporters behind her. "I hope you all can show some kindness toward us, the victims. As for tonight''s events, all I''m seeking is punishment for the wrongdoers, not harm to the innocent."


    The underlying message was, that it would be in the reporters'' best interest to write ording to Calista''s intention.


    Although the reporters had been


    threatened, they were all eager to get into action. They had already keenly sensed that this was the


    rhythm of a major scoop. Befor


    there were some reporters who were reluctant toe, but now, they


    were probably packed in so tightly that there was hardly room to move.


    "Ms. Stafford, do you really have to go this far?"


    At that point, Harvey no longer had the time to pay attention to Yelena or Quincy. All he wanted was to get out of this d*mned ce.


    Upon seeing that Harvey was still only concerned about himself at this time,pletely disregarding the life and death of Quincy, Yelena let out a scream. She seemed to have lost her mind, lunging to w at Harvey''s face.


    Out of the blue, Harvey was seized. In response, he forcefully pushed Yelena to the ground. If it hadn''t been for this woman, would he have been driven to such a point today?


    Harvey red at Yelena before shifting his gaze back to Calista. His eyes held a hint of pleading, making him appear as if he had aged a decade at that moment.


    "Harvey! You scoundrel! This isn''t what you promised me! If anything happens to Quincy, you''ll have to answer to me!"


    Yelena was wailing on the ground,


    throwing a tantrum. Quincy was also making whimpering sounds, but at that moment, no one dared toe to her rescue. This was becauseN?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Owen had almost jumped off


    With


    her in his arms just a moment ago. If anyone made a move, it could


    provoke Owen again, and she might really die.


    Yelena was shouting loudly, but Harvey didn''t even give her a nce. His entire focus was on hoping that Calista would let him off the hook. "Ms. Stafford," he pleaded, "if we can be friends, why should we be enemies?" Calista chuckled softly.


    "So, are you begging for mercy then?" She tilted her head. "But you and Yelena deceived my father for eighteen years. Are we just going to let this go?"


    Harvey''s heart sank. As he had feared, Calista had indeed figured out that it was he who had orchestrated Yelena to frame Benedict all those years ago. But after so much time had passed, how could he possibly admit to it?


    Harvey''s face, lined with hardened


    features, quivered slightly as he forced a smile. "Ms. Stafford, I


    believe there''s a huge


    I


    misunderstanding here. You''re aware of my situation. The doctor practically handed me a death sentence. It''s highly unlikely for me to have children! So even if Yelena and I had a past, I don''t believe that the child she''s carrying is mine. It just so happens that she and your father... It''s quite normal for her to think that the child is your father''s."


    He licked his plump lips, his expression sincere and earnest. "So, it wasn''t that I intentionally ignored Quincy. You know, I only have this one child! If I had known back then that Yelena was carrying my child, I would have been over the moon!" Calista nced at Yelena. "Are you saying the same thing too? Harvey didn''t deliberately deny Quincy. Rather, you made a mistake yourself, didn''t you?"


    Although Yelena was infuriated, she was fully aware that she had to ept this excuse for the sake of Quincy''s reputation, even if it meant being scolded. Thus, while ring at Harvey, she spoke resentfully through her tears.


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 Chapter 253 I Will Still Be Your Enemy

    "I made myself clear during the divorce! Calista, are you purposely trying to humiliate me here?"


    Calista nced at her. At that moment, her, Yelena, Harvey, along with Quincy and Owen, found themselves in a tense standoff. Everyone could feel the palpable tension between them!


    With a smile, Calista replied, "But I''ve heard a different version of Quincy''s background too."N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Those words took Harvey and Yelena by surprise.


    Harvey cast a warning nce at Yelena, but all he saw was her tear-streaked face looking back at him, as if to say she hadn''t told anyone about what happened years ago. There was no way her father, Matthew, would spread such a matter around either.


    Calista keenly observed their expressions, and with a casual, storytelling tone, she revealed an incident that was enough to utterly embarrass them.


    "Eighteen years ago, Yelena was quite attractive, but her illegitimate status destined her to a life far from high society marriage. However, she was a woman unwilling to settle for mediocrity, always striving for a better life. Coincidentally, Matthew saw an opportunity to use his daughter for his own ends. Thus, through Matthew''s machinations, Yelena found herself one day in a nightclub called Vortex Lounge-."


    ""Enough! You! You''re talking nonsense!"


    Before Calista could finish, Yelena suddenly leapt up from the ground, screaming. She was on the verge of losing her mind. At that moment, she didn''t care about confronting Harvey. Instead, she rushed over, seemingly wanting to silence Calista!


    But as soon as she approached, she was restrained by Derek. Harvey also regained his senses, and his bodyguards hurried forward to intervene. However, Levi and his men stepped in first, blocking them. Due to the mistake in Corleon previously, Kallum had demoted them. It was thanks to Calista''s plea that they were not reduced to third rank. Therefore, now Levi and his men all regarded Calista as their leader!


    The atmosphere was thick with tension, like two drawn swords ready to sh at any moment. The group of reporters found themselves caught in the middle, feeling somewhat trapped and unsure of how to proceed as the current atmosphere seemed a bit ominous. "What''s the rush? I haven''t finished speaking yet."


    Calista chuckled lightly, casting a nce at the desperately struggling Yelena, who had been gagged.


    "I haven''t even mentioned how you tried to seduce Mr. Loden, only to be led away by Mr. Hadley into a private room. Nor have I spoken of how you were toyed with by a group of men, and that''s not all..."


    "Enough! Calista, do you really have to be so ruthless? Will you not stop till one of us is dead?" Harvey roared, effectively cutting off Calista''s words. If he had let her continue, he would have lost all dignity!


    If Calista were to continue speaking, there would be no end to this matter.


    Calista took a step forward, moving ahead of the men who were guarding her. In stark contrast to Harvey''s fury, she was incrediblyposed. Her captivating eyes seemed as if they could draw people in and shatter them, emanating an increasingly intense aura of


    menace.


    "Until one of us is dead? You''ve got it


    wrong. I''m not looking to have a


    fight to the death with you; we''ve already been in that situation for a while now! If you don''t kill me,


    kill


    you. Even without the support of the


    Fairchild family, I''d still be your


    enemy until I''ve killed you.


    Calista''s words made Harvey''s pupils constrict.


    The reporters grew increasingly uneasy. This was no longer a matter of idle gossip; it had escted to a matter of life and death! Why was this woman so brave? She had fearlessly dered war against the Wolford family, and under her own name at that! Was she not afraid of death? Harvey''s heart sank bit by bit, his gaze gradually turning fierce and bloodthirsty. Since Calista was determined to sever all ties, he had no choice but to strike first.


    With just one nce from him, all the bodyguards behind him drew their guns!


    Upon witnessing the scene, the reporters let out a series of shocked exmations. Many people turned to run, but Harvey''s men fired several warning shots. Harvey himself bellowed, "No one is allowed to leave!"


    He had initially despised these reporters, but now, he suddenly didn''t want them to leave.


    The moment Harvey drew his gun, the people behind Calista did the same in unison. On the bridge over the sea, amidst the chilling wind and drizzling rain, the barrels of their guns faced each other, escting the situation to a full-blown standoff!


    The reporters all hunkered down,


    clutching their heads. At this point,


    any news or story had long since gone out the window. Yet, they didn''t dare to flee after witnessing Harvey''s menacing demeanor forbidding them from leaving. They were like sitting ducks, too afraid to


    make a move.


    Harvey pointed his gun at the reporters, a malicious grin spread across his face. "Calista, given how things have escted today, I''m not afraid of you anymore! If I were to kill a few of these reporters here, who do you think people woulde after, me or Kallum? After all, he''s the one who left these people here!"


    Calista was surrounded and targeted by countless guns, yet also shielded by them. Her expression didn''t change in the slightest. "Trying to stir up trouble to the point where it''s not something I can handle, are you? Too bad, I''m afraid things won''t go as you wish."


    With a wave of her hand, Calista signaled to the police officers behind Harvey, who then simultaneously raised their guns.


    "Don''t move!"


    It was only then that Harvey remembered the presence of the police. He was caught in a pincer attack, with neither numerical nor positional advantage.


    "You all..." Harvey''s dark gaze swept over the people behind him. He hadn''t expected that these police officers would actually listen to Calista.


    "Mr. Wolford, I implore you to put down the gun. We''re in our homnd, not some personal fiefdom. Are you really intending to challenge the authority of the state single-handedly?"


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 Chapter 254 Divide The Family

    The leading officer spoke with a stern expression. In truth, they weren''t acting because of Calista. Instead, it was under the orders of Kallum. After all, how could Kallum possibly stand by while Calista was in danger?


    Even if Kallum hadn''t made any demands, the fact that Harvey would even consider pointing a gun at an ordinary reporter was a tant disregard for them, the police.


    Caught in a pincer attack, Harvey no longer held any advantage. He nced left and right, a sense of impending doom spreading increasingly within him. In the end, he even felt a twinge of despair. It''s over! I''m done for!


    "Does this mean you''re finally willing to listen to me?"


    Ignoring the tension that hung in the air, Calista moved among the men, her words sharp and cutting like a drawn de. Each word she uttered was a wound inflicted.


    "Back then, after Yelena discovered your identity, she was somewhat reluctantly brought into the private room. How many people were in the room you were in at the time? Seven. You and your friends took turns with Yelena, even your uncle, and that''s not all. You guys were high on drugs that night and took things too far, even sending Yelena to other private rooms in the nightclub, treating her like a street hooker. Yelena became pregnant with your child under such circumstances... Oh, Harvey, no wonder you refused to acknowledge her. If you were to ept Quincy as your daughter and those who had toyed with Yelena in the past were to recall Quincy''s origins, do you think you could still make it in Summerbank?"


    Calista''s words had Yelena seething with rage. Her mouth was gagged, yet she still managed to emit muffled sounds. If looks could kill, Calista would have died a hundred times over by now!


    Quincy was utterly devastated! She had previously asked Yelena why Harvey refused to acknowledge her, but Yelena had remained silent. So this was the reason all along! She would have rather died by jumping into the sea just now!


    The terrified reporters were left stunned. Even though Calista had only spoken a few words, they could imagine the extent of Harvey and the others'' brutality that night and how wild things had turned. No wonder Harvey denied Quincy a legitimate status... This was simply the biggest scandal in Summerbank!


    It''s over... Everything''s totally ruined now...


    At that moment, a group of people hurried over. It was none other than Kyven and a few other brothers.


    As soon as they arrived, they confronted Harvey in front of everyone. "You''vepletely ruined the reputation of the Wolford family! We demand to divide the family!"


    Under normal circumstances, they


    would never consider dividing the


    family. After all, the power and influence of arge n were not to


    be trifled with lightly. But now, Harvey had incurred such heavy


    losses that he had resorted deceiving his own kin, even being forced to sell off their ancestral assets. If things continued this way, they would all inevitably fall under Harvey''s calcting gaze.


    Originally, their only intention was to remove Harvey from his position as the head of the Wolford family after today. However, Harvey had stirred up such a scandal. If they continued to be associated with him, not only would he find it hard to live down this disgrace, but they would also share in his difficulties! The only solution was to separate their households,pletely severing ties with Harvey!


    This was the final decision they hade to on their journey here.


    Upon hearing the news, Harvey suddenly sat down on the ground, his face turning deathly pale.


    It was over. He could fully envision the oue once the family was divided. Even though he was stronger than the average prestigious family, if Kallum wanted to harm him, it would be as simple as crushing an ant...


    With this thought, Harvey felt a surge of frustration welling up in his chest, almost to the point of coughing up blood.


    Meanwhile, beside him, Calista was saying, "Splitting up is fine, but you all need to hurry, as I''m preparing to sue Harvey and Yelena for marriage fraud." She looked at Owen with a radiant smile and added, "As for him, Harvey ruined his life, so this score needs to be settled too. Not only that, everyone who has ever been wronged by Harvey can now sue him."


    With a single statement from Calista, it was as if a signal had been sent out, dering that Harvey''s era hade to an end. From now on, everyone was free to settle their grudges against him. Unable to withstand the shock, Harvey''s eyes rolled back before he passed


    out.


    In the car, Kallum watched as Calista emerged victorious and was in a good mood. He said to Quintus, "It''s true that Owen was wrong to kidnap someone, but in a way, he''s also a victim. Later, drop by the police station to pass on a message." "Understood!" Quintus responded with a smile. He watched Calista, who was outside conversing with the Wolford family members, and remarked, "Ms. Calista is truly formidable. The Wolford family is such a massive n, yet she navigates it with such ease. She''s certainly no ordinary woman!"


    Kallum''s control over the situation


    was undeniable. From Owen to the Wolford family''s decision to split, it


    was Kallum''s careful manipul


    that led to this point. However, with his support, it required Calista''s bravery and acumen. The two worked in perfect harmony, easily bringing down the Wolford family.


    From then on, the Wolford family was no longer a power in


    Summerbank.


    "My woman is, of course, the best."


    Peering through the curtain of rain, Kallum wore an extremely satisfied expression. He had to admit his favorite thing was Calista''s methodical yet ruthlessly efficient way of handling matters, which gave him a thrill akin to a deadly form of artistry. Seemingly sensing something, Calista nced in Kallum''s direction before bidding farewell to Kyven and the others.


    Since Kyven and the rest had decided to separate from Harvey, they certainly did not want to offend Calista. Thus, the gist of their previous conversation was that all the me for this situation fell on Harvey. They had already drawn a clear line with Harvey and hoped that Calista would not cause them any trouble.N?velDrama.Org ? content.

 Chapter 255 You Have To Take Me In

    Calista chuckled lightly. "My policy has always been to live and let live, so you can rest assured. If there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave now."


    "All right... Ms. Stafford, you truly are magnanimous! Take care!"


    Kyven breathed a sigh of relief in his heart. As long as Calista didn''t hold a grudge, the Fairchild family certainly wouldn''t target them.


    Following that, Kyven took Harvey away, as Harvey still owed him a substantial amount of money.


    The police led Owen away, with reporters hastily trailing behind. Traffic officers began clearing thenes, and finally, the tumultuous bridgehead regained its calm after the storm. Only Quincy and Yelena remained. Quincy''s neck had stopped bleeding, but her expression was as if she had lost her soul.


    Yelena wanted to inspect her daughter''s wounds, but she was abruptly shoved away by Quincy, who thought Yelena was dirty...


    "Leave me alone! Don''t touch me!"


    Quincy truly hadn''t expected the truth of how she was conceived. After Yelena had gone through such an ordeal, she didn''t terminate the pregnancy. Instead, she carried on with her life as if nothing had happened. It was simply unbelievable!


    Yelena''s eyes revealed a hurt look. Meanwhile, Quincy, seemingly out of sorts, had already staggered her way toward Calista.


    "Calista! You devil! Why did you have to do this to me? Are you trying to drive me to my death? Is that what you want, to push me to my end?"


    Before she could approach, she was stopped by Derek. Calista, holding her umbre, turned around only to see a somewhat crazed expression on Quincy''s face.


    "Did I drive you to death? I merely stated the facts. Some people, if they have the courage to act, should also have the courage to ept the consequences."


    "You''re being utterly inhumane! What she did was her doing, so why drag me into this? You''re deliberately ruining me, pushing me toward a dead end! W-We''re sisters! How could you treat me like this?"


    Struggling and screaming, Quincy''s face was a mess of tears, rain, and blood.


    "When did I ever force you to your death?" Calista refused to admit it. If it weren''t for her, Quincy would have already been dead, having taken her own life by jumping into the sea.


    "You still won''t admit it? We''re all women! My mother has already suffered enough after what she went through! And you, you had to air it out in public, didn''t you? Weren''t you just trying to push her over the edge, and then do the same to me? We grew up together! How could you treat me like this?"


    Calista let out a soft scoff, "It seems I wasn''t clear enough, leading to your misunderstanding."


    She toyed with the handle of her umbre, looking at Quincy as she enunciated her next words clearly. "The one who sent Yelena to the nightclub was your granddad because he wanted to curry favor with the powerful. Yelena went willingly, and any consequences were within her expectations. If she regretted or resented it afterward, she could have gotten rid of you, but she didn''t because she knew that every single person she encountered that night was someone influential. No matter whose child she was carrying, it would be better off than marrying into an ordinary family, so this was her well-considered choice. Given that, why shouldn''t I speak out?"


    "You... You..." Quincy''s voice faltered.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Calista scoffed, then continued,


    "Harvey didn''t want to acknowledge you, making my father raise a daughter for eighteen years in vain Yelena helped him plot against my father, and now she has the audacity to say it was all a misunderstanding, that she got the wrong person? Ha! I simply had to expose the truth. It''s just unfortunate that you got dragged into this. But if they hadn''t stirred up trouble, none of this would have happened today."


    Quincy didn''t want to confront reality. She preferred to shift all the me onto others, thinking that it would make her seem less guilty. Sobbing, she uttered resentfully, "You didn''t have to say it... Why did you have to expose her lies? Don''t you realize how much this affects me? I''ve been your little sister for eighteen years; how could you treat me like this!"


    Calista''s eyes shed as she subtly arched her eyebrow under the cover of her ck umbre.


    "How else was I supposed to treat you? So what if you were innocent in this matter? Wasn''t I also innocent when you harmed me? How is it fair that only you get to y the viin, and I can''t fight back? What kind of logic is that?"


    "Since you''re aware that I''m


    innocent..." Quincytched onto her words, hastily wiping away her tears, her eyes red-rimmed as she looked at Calista. "Don''t you have an ounce of sympathy? Now, there''s no ce for


    e in the Stafford family or the


    Wolford family. You''ve put an innocent person like me in such a


    situation - don''t you think you should


    take responsibility?"


    "Take responsibility?" Calista scoffed as if she had heard a joke. "And how would you like me to take responsibility?"


    Without any hesitation, Quincy said, "You have to take me in! Otherwise, I''ll surely die of humiliation, and it''s all your fault! You''re responsible for this!"


    "So, are you saying you want to join the Fairchild family?"


    Calista found it amusing; Quincy was indeed always so pragmatic.


    "It''s only fair for you to do this!" Quincy''s voice was shrill, her hands and feet animated as she spoke passionately. "Otherwise, if I were to die, it would be your doing! Calista, you can''t even tolerate your own sister. Do you really think the Fairchild family would want a heartless woman like you?"


    Calista seemed a bit confused as she asked, "Why does it have to be the Fairchild family?"


    Then, she teased Quincy yfully, "I could take you back to the Stafford family... Why does it have to be the Fairchild family?"


    Before Quincy could even furrow her brow toe up with an excuse, Calista had already lost the patience to continue the game.


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 Chapter 256 I Will Definitely Cure You

    "Even at this point, you''re still ying these little games. I''m not sure whether to call you clever or shameless. Like mother, like daughter, I suppose?" After finishing her statement, Calista disregarded the ugly expression on Quincy''s face and turned to leave.


    A momentter, the frantic shouts of Quincy echoed from behind.


    "Ahhh! Calista! You''ll meet a terrible end! You''re surely destined for a dreadful fate!"


    Calista snorted dismissively. She was uncertain about her own fate, but one thing was clear - the current Quincy was now at her mercy, like a toy in her hand.


    After taking down Harvey, Calista enjoyed a fewfortable days at home. A month flew by in the blink of an eye, and it was time for Kallum to step out and meet people again.


    "Have you heard? The Fairchild family is holding a banquet to celebrate Mr. Kallum''s recovery from a severe illness!"


    A reporter inquired to a colleague, "Did you get an invite? This time, Mr. Kallum is determined to prove his health, so he''s bound to invite some reporters!"


    The other person chuckled and replied, "Let''s not kid ourselves. The ones who will get to interview him are definitely some big shots!"


    "That''s such a shame. No reporter has ever managed to get inside Fairchild Manor. I''d love to see what a top tycoon''s mansion looks like."


    On the day of the banquet, Fairchild Manor was flooded with guests. Unlike the previous family banquet, they had only invited those close to them this time. The turnout wasrge, with people from all walks of life. They had even extended an invitation to their rivals. After all, the banquet was held to demonstrate Kallum''s well-being. Inviting them now was better than dealing with their behind-the-scenes maniptionster.


    "Do I look good in this?"


    If this were the past, Kallum would never have asked such a question. But now, even though he was sick, his outlook was broader than before. If the old him could be likened to a diamond, with absolute hardness and heat, then the current him was like the sunshine, radiating a brilliant light from within. The silver-blue suit he wore suited him perfectly, enhancing his upright and handsome appearance.


    "You do."


    It seemed as if Calista had returned to her previous lifestyle, spending her days studying and taking care of Kallum''s health. After responding half-heartedly, she asked seriously, "Does the stiffness in your joints intensify when you move? Does it hurt more?" She couldn''t help but ask that after seeing Kaiser struggling with his buttons.


    The smile on Kallum''s face faded slightly before he spoke with an air of nonchnce.


    "I''m fine. I''m already much better off than the others."


    Others who had been infected died within a month, but counting this month, he had survived for a year and a month. Apart from physical pain, the other symptoms weren''t too severe. Most importantly, he had Calista by his side. What more could he ask for? Calista pursed her lips. "With Sterling''s blood, our research has made some progress. Mr. Haught in Corleon has also achieved certain results thanks to those volunteers infected with the virus there..."Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Suddenly, Calista shifted the conversation. "Do you me me? If it weren''t for me, you could''ve used Sterling as a human test subject. Perhaps it could''ve expedited the process of conquering the virus, and you would''ve suffered less..."


    With a hint of amusement in his violet eyes, Kallum nced at her. "Do you really think I''d me you?"


    Calista nodded. Kallum held a high position and bore heavy responsibilities. He had every reason to use Sterling as a human test subject for the sake of his own health. Yet, when she identally caused the death of a special case, Kallum didn''t utter a single word.


    "Callie, I must admit, your


    proposition was quite tempting.


    After all, Sterling was our foe, and I


    wouldn''t feel the slightest


    difort using him for our experiment. However, I respect your choices and your secrets. Anything you don''t wish to disclose, won''t pry into. And whatever you want to do, I''m fully supportive."


    Therefore, even though his fate was closely tied to her decision, he never said much. That was just his way of loving someone, without any boundaries.


    Upon seeing theplex expression on Calista''s face, Kallum slightly raised an eyebrow, chuckling as he said, "Of course, if it weren''t for you, I wouldn''t have let Sterling off the hook. But because it''s you, what choice do I have?"


    After all, he was no saint. If it weren''t for his affection toward Calista and she wasn''t the one who killed Sterling, he would never have let this matter slide so easily.


    Calista pursed her lips, reaffirming once again, "I will definitely cure you, even without Sterling."


    "I believe in you." Then, Kallum reached out to take Calista''s hand, a smile on his face as he asked, "Shall we go?"


    There was a tough battle yet to be fought at the banquetter!


    The decor was exquisitelyvish, with beautiful music ying in the background. Small groups of immactely dressed people were engaged in conversation, all of them brimming with intense curiosity about Kallum.


    A month had already passed, and


    essentially, it was safe to dismiss the death afert that hung over


    Kallum. Most people believed that Kallum had truly be that one-in-a-hundred lucky individual. Therefore, the mood during this visit was much more rxed than thest time.


    "Recently, the Fairchild family has been making some big moves. The Wolford family has disbanded, and I heard that Harvey''s brother withdrew his investment. He was so upset that he fell ill. After the split, Harvey had no choice but to sell off his ancestral property. Almost overnight, he hadpletely fallen from grace."


    Someonemented, "Indeed, it was the Wolford family''s own fault for overestimating their capabilities and daring to challenge the Fairchild family! Kallum is far from being someone reluctant to get his hands dirty."


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 Chapter 257 The Public Blood Test

    "I heard that Harvey was swearing in the hospital about not letting the Fairchild family off the hook, nor would he spare Calista. It''s uncertain what he might do."


    "What else can he do? Even at the height of his power, he wasn''t a match for the Fairchild family. Now... let''s just say he''s been cornered, and he''s starting to act out of desperation!"


    They weren''t the only ones discussing the affairs of the Wolford family, as others were also talking about it. After all, it was no small matter. Of course, another topic that had everyone buzzing with excitement was about Yelena and Quincy.


    Wealthy people often lived life in the fastne, but few were as extreme as Harvey. He treated the illegitimate daughter of a minor family as if she were a mere ything, disregarding her humanity. Such man was met with disdain from many women. However, what shocked people even more was Yelena''s actions. Many high-societydiesmented that if they were in Yelena''s shoes, they would have ended their own life! To them, living like that was nothing short of a disgrace. Furthermore, those who were once close with Yelena now wished they had never known her. It was one thing for a woman to climb the socialdder as long as the unscrupulous methods she used remained unknown, but once they came to light, it would immediately be public knowledge in high society.


    After the incident urred, the reporters didn''t go into detail, primarily out of respect for the Fairchild family and consideration for Benedict''s reputation. However, the shocking secret revealed by Calista that day still caused a sensation throughout the entire city of Horington.


    Yelena and Quincy were probably too embarrassed to show their faces in public again after that incident.


    "He''s here! Mr. Kallum has arrived!"


    It was unclear who had called out, but Ss and Wanda, went over to greet their son with a smile. They knew for certain that someone would be adamant in causing a fuss, so they had to brace themselves for it.


    "Dad, Mom," Kallum casually greeted, then gave a slight nod toward the person next to them.


    Many people came to congratte Kallum. Seeing him still so spirited a monthter and that he didn''t look like a sick man at all, their expressions became significantly more genuine.


    Once everyone had exchanged greetings, the visiting individuals, with smiles on their faces, approached while holding their drinks. Behind them, some people were jotting down notes in small notebooks. Using recording devices wasn''t an option, so they had to resort to this traditional method of conducting interviews.


    "Mr. Kallum, have you truly made aplete recovery?" asked a female reporter with a notably sharp face and a wide grin. "Pardon my frankness, but this is probably the question on everyone''s mind tonight."


    Kallum had summoned them in order to quell the circting rumors. Thus, he raised his chin slightly, responding with an air of arrogance.


    "Of course, it''s merely the K virus, hardly something to be afraid of."


    The other reporters broke intoughter. "Indeed, Mr. Kallum, you''re no ordinary man, so you naturally have nothing to fear. But there are always some particrly timid folks around. I wonder how you n to silence these scaredy-cats?" Kallum raised an eyebrow andughed brazenly. "Since everyone is so concerned, then let''s just do a blood test. After all, I have nothing to fear."


    After he finished speaking, he didn''t utter another word.


    When word got out that Kallum was conducting a public blood test, many, in a show of loyalty, approached Ss sycophantically, assuring him there was no need for such a test. They all professed their faith in Callum and the Fairchild family. Regardless of what they had to say, conducting the blood test was inevitable. After all, they had been prepared for it.


    Kallum didn''t waste any time. Once everyone had gathered, he slowly made his way to the tform in front of the spiral staircase. Looking down at the crowd below, he broke into his usual dismissive smile. From the look in his eyes, an air of arrogance was evident.


    After exchanging a few pleasantries, he went straight to the point.


    "I''m aware that everyone came here with a single purpose in mind- to find out if I, Kallum, am still alive."


    He scoffed, "I''m afraid some might be disappointed to learn that I''m doing quite well. Moreover, the K virus that everyone fears is nothing more than a mere trifle to me."


    Despite the smiles on everyone''s faces, no one knew what they were truly thinking.


    Kallum changed the topic. "However, to ease some people''s worries and to prevent any annoying rumors from spreading, I will publicly undergo a blood test today. I hope that from this day forward, the matter of the K virus will bepletely resolved."


    No sooner had he finished speaking


    than someone brought over a bowl, half-filled with water. Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Calista used a syringe to collect a few drops of blood from Kallum. She then dripped the blood into the water, before pulling out an object that resembled a pen.


    "I''m sure everyone is familiar with the infectious disease detector. All it takes is to dip its tip into a blood sample, and it can diagnose whether the blood contains any infectious viruses."


    Everyone knew about the infectiousContent ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    disease detector. Besides the


    K-virus, there were many other contagious diseases in everyday life. Hence, most households would


    keep such a device at home. If the device lit up red, it indicated that the blood was infectious. If it lit up green, then the blood was normal.


    Seeing that everyone had understood, Calista said seriously, "Now, please make sure you understand the test results. In the future, we don''t want to hear any spection about the K virus." With that, everyone''s gaze was fixed on Calista''s hand. They watched as she dipped the tip of the test kit into the bowl. As expected, the test kit lit up with a green light.


    Upon witnessing the scene, Calista silently breathed a sigh of relief. Noticing the various expressions of the guests below, she asked with a smile, "Now, does anyone still have any doubts?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 258 Tampering With The Blood Test

    On the surface, no one would dare have any objections.


    "Now that there aren''t any, I just want to reiterate that how can Mr. Kallum not be fine when he''s standing right here?"


    Someone chuckled and hastily said, "Exactly, those suspicious folks were up to no good from the very beginning!"


    Compared to these Monday morning quarterbacks, those who were hoping for the downfall of the Fairchild family looked rather upset. In fact, there was no need for a blood test, as most of them had already believed Kallum''s words. As the K virus was lethal, even if Kallum had tried every possible means to prolong his life, it was impossible for him to look as if nothing had happened after a month. It was now clear to them that he was truly very fortunate.


    Just as the small bowl was about to be removed, an unexpected turn of events urred.


    A woman was forcefully shoved, causing her to stumble forward and crash into the housekeeper who was about to leave with the bowl. The impact was so severe that all the water in the small bowl was spilled. Calista''s pupils slightly constricted, silently locking eyes with Kallum.


    The housekeeper kept apologizing incessantly, while the woman who had been shoved wore a curious expression. She shouted angrily, "Who was it? Who pushed me on purpose?"


    Many people rushed to assist her, yet not a single person imed to have seen who was responsible.


    Kallum''s face darkened as he waved his hand, and the soaked carpet was promptly reced. Most people were oblivious to the implications of this incident, but Calista knew just how serious this matter was.


    The banquet carried on as usual, while Kallum and Calista stepped away from the crowd, their expressions somewhat grim.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    "Has the carpet been taken care of?" Kallum quietly asked Quintus.


    "It''s been taken care of. Thedy who fell didn''t know who bumped into her. She had already changed out of her drenched clothes, but we noticed that a small piece of fabric was torn from the corner of her garment. When asked, she didn''t know when it got torn." "It seems we''re being targeted, but we don''t know by whom though..."


    Calista felt a wave of frustration, her brows furrowing. She had tampered with the water just now and if someone were to get their hands on it for testing, things could getplicated.


    "They couldn''t have taken anything." Kallum asked Paul in a deep voice, "Has anyone left the premises earlier than expected?"


    The butler responded, "No, everyone is still in the banquet hall."


    "Just because they were in the dining hall doesn''t mean they didn''t spread the news. Even if they didn''t take anything for analysis, we might have already been exposed."


    Kallum suddenly squinted his eyes. "Who was the first to help that woman when she fell just now?"


    Someone recalled, then stated, "It was Mrs. Yost."


    Meanwhile, Harvey received a phone call from that very person while still in the hospital.


    "There''s no doubt. I tested it with litmus paper. The water that stained the fabric wasn''t pure; it was something else. Although I don''t know what was added, it caused the litmus paper to change color! Why wouldn''t they use pure water if they had nothing to hide? The reason Why there was no issue with Kallum''s blood is very likely rted to that bowl of water. I took a great risk to get this!"


    In a corner of the banquet hall, Mirabelle''s mother, Regina


    Whiteman, was somewhat flustered as she destroyed the fabric and test paper in her hands. She felt a lingering fear in her heart. She knew she couldn''t take these things with her, nor did she dare to. The courage it took to push that woman earlier was the most she had ever mustered in her life. Even as she made the phone call, her hand was trembling.


    "There''s something wrong with that bowl of water? But hadn''t Kallum already suffered from it for a month?" Harvey murmured to himself.


    "I don''t know what''s really going on. The Fairchild family won''t find out it was me, right? Promise me, if the Fairchild family ever discovers this, you can''t turn me in!"


    Regina repeatedly cautioned him, but Harvey was simply in no mood to listen further.


    Is Kallum''s illness cured or not? If it wasn''t, how is he able to attend the banquet like a normal person? If it was, why was there a need to tamper with the public blood test? Recalling Sterling''s words before his death, the sickly Harvey was struck by a sudden realization.


    "I got it! Alright, I''ve got it all figured out!"


    Upon having the epiphany, Harvey couldn''t contain his emotions, shouting out loud in the ward. His chubby face contorted in sheer excitement.


    "I''ve realized that we''ve all been deceived. The Fairchild family is truly cunning; they''re done for now!"


    Regina was somewhat bewildered. "What have you learned? You haven''t even answered my question yet!"


    However, before she could finish her sentence, Harvey had already hung up the phone.


    The flustered Regina called again but received a notification saying that the line was engaged.


    However, judging by Harvey''s tone, regardless of what he had learned, it was clearly something detrimental to the Fairchild family.


    Her expression transformed from


    fear to determination. In contrast to


    Harvey''s desperation, Regina was merely seeking revenge for her daughter. So, when Harvey sought her out, she agreed without hesitation despite the danger, as she knew that this was her only chance.


    Thinking about the imminent downfall of the Fairchild family, a somewhat sinister smile crept onto Regina''s ordinary-looking face.


    "Kallum, Calista, for harming my daughter, you must pay the price!"


    However, her moment of triumph was short-lived. As soon as she turned around, she came face-to-face with the stern-looking Paul. He cast a nce at her, his voiceced with disdain as he spoke. "Mrs. Yost, I presume? This way, please. Ms. Calista has something to discuss with you."

 Chapter 259 Conducting An Investigation

    In an instant, Regina''s face turned deathly pale...


    The banquet was still ongoing. Unlike the rxed demeanor of the others, Calista had already sensed the impending danger. Harvey was not a fool and might have guessed something. And now, he was like a madman, driven to desperation. Therefore, it was inevitable that he would do something foolish.


    They knew they had toe up with a strategy, but with such little time, it was nearly impossible to anticipate the other party''s moves, let alone devise an effective response.


    No matter what, the situation turned out to be rather unfavorable for the Fairchild family.


    As the banquet was drawing to a close, Ss let out a soft sigh of relief, thinking that the evening would pass without any unexpected incidents. However, at that moment, Paul came running over, his face tense as he spoke.


    "Mr. Fairchild, there''s trouble. The police are here!"


    Not only had the police arrived, but they hade in considerable numbers. The Fairchild family, having been the top prestigious family for many years, was bound to have rivals. Usually, everyone coexisted peacefully, maintaining a facade of civility and harmony. However, when something happened, it would quickly escte.


    After all, no one knew if Harvey, despite his current state, could convince anyone to stand up for him.


    Upon noticing Ss'' slight panic, Kallum gave him a reassuring pat on his shoulder. He turned to Paul and said, "If we have guests, let them in. The Fairchild family has nothing to hide."


    Not long after he finished speaking, a man dressed in a white suit entered, apanied by over a dozen police officers.


    "Mr. Kallum, I hope you don''t mind my uninvited visit," he said.


    Kallum scoffed, casting a nce at the police officers behind him, and sneered, "Of course not. Everyone here is a guest that is weed by the Fairchild family."


    The young man, Hendrick Murray, wore a look of regret. "It''s a shame that I''m not here as a guest today, but rather..."


    He surveyed the crowd present, his sharp eyes carrying a hint of amusement.


    "Someone reported an incident, and due to its significance, I have no choice but to personally investigate."


    The words from Hendrick stirred varied reactions among the crowd. Everyone knew that Hendrick merely held a nominal military role and rarely showed up. Yet, he arrived today under the guise of conducting an investigation. It seemed that tonight, trouble was brewing again.


    Someone murmured, "The Murray family and the Fairchild family have always been at odds. I wonder what kind of leverage they''ve got on the Fairchild family today to be acting so brazenly."


    "It''s hard to say, it''s not easy to get dirt on the Fairchild family. If it were that simple, the Murray family wouldn''t always be one step behind them. The Murray family has been gunning for the title of the most prestigious family in Chanaea for quite some time now." "However, when ites to both looks and talents, Mr. Hendrick and Mr. Kallum are the same-they are both exceptional young men."


    "Mr. Kallum is indeed superior. Otherwise, there wouldn''t be the unspoken rule of Mr. Hendrick never appearing in the same ce as Mr. Kallum. Most of the time, Mr. Hendrick has been trying to avoid getting upstaged by Mr. Kallum."


    "However, judging by Mr. Hendrick''s confident demeanor tonight, could it be that he''s absolutely certain he can beat Mr. Kallum this time?"


    Despite the incessant gossip. None of them had considered that the investigation Hendrick spoke of was rted to the K virus. Instead, they assumed that Hendrick had appeared after obtaining some other leverage.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum had a deep dislike for Hendrick, who had always liked topete with him since they were kids. Kallum, however, had no interest in engaging in any suchpetition with thetter.


    "Since you''re not a guest, I''m not obliged to entertain you anymore. Paul, show them out!"


    "Wait!" Hendrick said with a smile.


    He scrutinized Kallum, finding it hard to believe what Harvey had imed. Could it really be true that Kallum has been infected with the virus for a year now?


    Harvey spected that Kallum could


    have been infected a year ago while he was in Lostaria and thetter''s life was only saved by a renowned doctor. This exined why Calista had taken the risk of going to Corleon to research the K virus and why Kallum had suddenly be so low-key over the past year. Moreover, Hendrick had a hunch that Harvey''s guess might actually be true. Otherwise, it didn''t make sense for Kallum to have faked his public blood test that evening.


    "I came here because I received an anonymous tip. They said there''s someone here who has extensive knowledge about the K virus. People who have been treated by her, even if they''ve been infected, won''t die within a month. We naturally want to recruit such a talent and put her to use for the good of our nation."


    Kallum hadn''t expected that Hendrick was secretly in touch with Harvey. Without a doubt, this was Harvey''s doing. A glint of murderous intent shed through Kallum''s eyes. It seemed that merely crushing Harvey wasn''t enough; killing him would be the best solution.


    Hendrick''s words left everyone a bit confused.


    Why is he bringing up the K virus again? Hasn''t this matter been resolved already? Even if there were experts with extensive research on the K virus, there would be no need for Hendrick to personallye and invite them, right?


    "The person you''re looking for isn''t here. You should probably leave!"


    Kallum was well aware that though the other party imed to be seeking Calista, their true intention was to elevate Qingqing''s medical skills without any substantial evidence. Their aim was to cast doubt on him among the public and force him to retake the blood test. Hendrick is just as detestable as always!


    Hendrick chuckled lightly. "Is that so? Isn''t Calista that very person?"


    He has actuallye looking for Calista!


    After he finished speaking, a man dressed in a military uniform emerged from behind him. The man''s demeanor was extremely respectful, yet his tone carried a hint of hostility.


    "Mr. Kallum, you may not recognize


    me, but we''ve actually crossed paths in Corleon. Thanks to Ms. Stafford''s medical team stationed there, the


    country now takes the K virue the


    seriously. Those patients, who were once expected to die within a month, have now survived for two months under Ms. Stafford''s treatment."

 Chapter 260 The Accusations

    His statement was somewhat exaggerated, as not many people outside of his profession would pay attention to the world''s problems. However, he had intentionally exaggerated to draw the attention of the guests present.


    He continued, "Ms. Stafford has been making quite a name for herself in Corleon. Many believe she will be the first to conquer the K virus. However, it''s peculiar that I haven''t heard a whisper of this back home. Is someone trying to prevent her from gaining fame, or is it that Ms. Stafford can''t publicize her research achievements, even if she has made progress?" His words started to hint at conspiracy theories. After all, everyone wanted to be famous. From his perspective, if Calista truly achieved something, it would be strange for her not to announce it.


    Unless someone didn''t want her to disclose it because once she did, certain secrets would be revealed...


    For a moment, all the guests present began to specte.


    With a scoff, Kallum retorted, "Do you think everyone is as vain as you? Since you''re not here as guests, get out of my house!"


    Kallum''s hostile attitude caused Hendrick''s tone to be increasingly confrontational.


    "Are you in such a hurry because you''re trying to hide something, Mr. Kallum?"


    Hendrick nced around at everyone, not seeing Calista only confirmed his suspicions further. "Given Calista''s achievements in Corleon, it''s not difficult to extend the life of a patient suffering from the K virus. So, how can we trust your blood test results from just now?" The crowd was in an uproar, as Hendrick had indeede because of the K virus. After all, this was the first time Kallum had ever slipped up, and even his enemies wouldn''t easily let this opportunity go.


    The Wolford family, who previously suspected that Kallum was infected with the K virus, has already been ruined. And now, the Murray family is still not giving up? They just can''t stop causing trouble, can''t they?


    "So, what you''re saying is, not only did I contract the K virus, but I also held Calista captive and have her secretly treat me? And even if her treatment worked, she isn''t allowed to disclose her achievements? I must say, your imagination is quite rich."


    "If it wasn''t for the fact that she is at your mercy due to your threats against her, why would a vulnerable woman like her knowingly y the part of your lover when you were infected with the K virus?"


    Hendrick was convinced that Calista and Callum were at odds. If Calista truly had feelings for him, there would be no need for Callum to arrange a pick-up and drop-off for her every day, nor would there be a need to constantly have two people apany her. The only exnation was that Calista was being ckmailed, forcing her to y along with Callum''s act.


    His expression was filled with contempt. "I bet you manipted Calista through Benedict, didn''t you? I should have thought of that! And a year ago, you had your right-hand man follow Benedict around. Kallum, did you contract the K virus a year ago?"


    A single remark sparked countless spections, yet no one had dared to conceive such a wild notion before.


    A year ago? Wasn''t Mr. Kallum still in Lostaria at that time? This suggestion is just ridiculous!


    Many people expressed disbelief, as they couldn''t fathom that anyone could survive more than a year under the torment of the K virus.


    Moreover, Calista was still young. No matter how much of a genius she was, at most, she could only extend someone''s life by a few months, while a year was simply impossible.


    Yet, Hendrick firmly believed in his own deduction. Hebined Callum''s behavior over the past year with Harvey''s spection to conclude what he thought was the truth.


    "Why did you suddenly return from Lostaria a year ago, right at the crucial moment? And why did you start avoiding people after returning? You practically disappeared for an entire year, why?"


    Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Hendrick relentlessly presented his findings. Every piece of information he had gathered from his investigation was meticulouslyid out.


    "Not only that, but I also knew that


    n¨§tThis content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    after the Fairchild family returned from Country, they secretly assembled a multitude of virus experts. As a result, they formed a special task force and are now secretly researching the K virus in Corleon. What could possiblypel them to abandon fame, status, and family, to venture into a dangerous nation for volunteer work? It can only be exined by someone having bribed them with power and wealth! Linking all these together, the truth isn''t hard to guess anymore..."


    The air was filled with danger, the situation on the cusp of a deadly esction. The bodyguards of the Fairchild family and the officers brought by Hendrick were in a standoff, their oppressive aura leaving everyone else too tense to


    even breathe.


    If what Hendrick had said was indeed the truth, then they had been conducting business with a dangerous K-virus carrier for the past year. The thought itself was utterly terrifying.


    The crowd gradually began to show signs of fear, with the more timid among them subtly edging backward, as if doing so could put more distance between them and danger. Those who were close to the Fairchild family naturally spoke up in their defense.


    "I feel that this is absolutely impossible! Everyone has just witnessed the results of Mr. Kallum''s blood test. He wasn''t infected at all!"


    "Yeah, how could anyone possibly survive more than a year after contracting the K virus?" someone added.


    "Moreover, Ms. Stafford doesn''t seem like she was being forced at all..."


    The scene was chaotic, marking the


    first time a sense of unease had


    gripped the Fairchild family''s


    banquet. The panic that had been so painstakingly suppressed erupted once more, stronger than ever before.


    Nevertheless, Kallum''s expression was as indifferent as always.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 261 Turning On The Pressure

    "All these are just your spections, or are you just rambling nonsensically so that I have to take another blood test just to appease you? You''re rather full of yourself, aren''t you?"All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Kallum''s words wereced with mockery, carrying a bloodthirsty undertone. His eyes had be hard to read.


    "So, if you can''t take back your words up with evidence, I don''t want to hear you spouting nonsense anymore."


    After he finished speaking, he turned and left. Given his status, he really had no obligation to respond to Hendrick''s usations.


    Upon seeing that Kallum was unfazed, Hendrick grew somewhat agitated.


    Speaking at a slightly brisk pace, he said, "Was I merely specting? But if I was wrong, why didn''t you show yourself to anyone for a whole year? Why did you suddenly be interested in the K virus? Why did you gather arge group of experts and keep Calista captive?"


    His questions grew increasingly pointed. "At the auction a year ago, Calista showed no affection toward you. Yet, against all odds, you began to relentlessly pursue her and even proposed to her publicly not too long ago. Who would believe there''s no ulterior motive?" The more he spoke, the more others found the idea terrifying.


    Indeed, a year ago, Kallum practically hated Calista. But suddenly, his attitude toward her drastically changed. Currently, he keeps her by his side all the time and even ced his trusted aide by Calista''s father''s side... It doesn''t seem strange when thought of separately, but when you link them together, it certainly seems like there''s more to the story!


    Kallum halted his steps abruptly, then turned around with an abrupt snigger.


    "So, what are you nning to do to back your words up? Otherwise, I don''t have time to y games with you."


    Back my words up? Kallum''s stubbornness had started to annoy Hendrick, who responded sharply, "As long as you are willing to publicly conduct the blood test once more, the five ports that were just handed to me now will belong to the Fairchild family!" Everyone gasped, utterly astonished by Hendrick''s extravagant disy of wealth.


    These five ports must have been what Harvey used to bribe the Murray family with. In order to get Kallum to take another blood test, Hendrick actually ced such a hefty bet!


    "Five ports? Are you implying that I''m somewhat cheap?"


    Kallum''s expression revealed his dissatisfaction. "Add five more ports, then perhaps we could discuss this matter further."


    Upon witnessing Kallum''s sudden change in attitude, a sense of unease inevitably crept into Hendrick''s heart.


    Could it be that both he and Harvey have guessed wrong, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with Kallum? Was everything he did simply a setup for his enemies, Just like finding an excuse to deal with the Wolford family? Seeing his hesitation, Kallum couldn''t help but scoff, "Using what others have given you as a stake is essentially not making any personal sacrifice. You''re being overly greedy by making a bet with no skin in the game."


    He slightly lifted his chin, asking, "Since you''re a man, do you dare to step up the game? What''s the point in just a few ports?"


    What does he mean by that?


    Many were left in awe of how rich and powerful Kallum was. Many people became rich just by owning a single port. After all, they lived in Horington, which was by the sea, and sea transportation had always been one of the quickest ways to make money. It was just like how Harvey had risked everything, offering up five ports in exchange for the Murray family''s support. This was hisst-ditch effort. If the Murray family failed this time, Harvey, with what little he had left, would never be able to make aeback. Therefore, the five ports were already extremely valuable. Yet Kallum nonchntly suggested adding a few more, acting like a spoiled rich kid who treated money like it was nothing.


    However, if Kallum was truly a rich and spoiled brat who was ipetent, he wouldn''t have been capable of elevating the already prosperous Fairchild family to a higher level. Therefore, when he started to unt his wealth, others had to tread carefully. Kallum was certainly not a prodigal son in any means.


    Hendrick knew this well. He, who had been confident of his victory, suddenly felt his confidence sway.


    "What do you want to wager?" he asked warily.


    Kallum turned around, ncing at the crowd below that was eagerly watching the spectacle. With a nonchnt tone, he said, "In addition to the extra ports, how about I throw in a hundred mid-sized cruise ships? The Fairchild family isn''t particrly keen on sea transportation If you want, you can wager it all, but I''m afraid the Murray family might not have the corresponding capital. Also, are you even in a position to make this decision?"


    Kallum''sughter was an absolute insult to Hendrick. However, given his cautious nature, even when provoked to the extreme, he would refrain from uttering any impulsive words, especially when it was Kaiser who was relentlessly pressuring him this time.


    Taking a few strides, Kallum slowly


    advanced toward Hendrick. "Why aren''t you speaking? Is it not


    enough? Be it mining, gems, real et


    estate, or entertainment, I can bring whatever you desire to the table. After all, when ites to gambling, I, Rallum, have never lost


    He appeared incredibly domineering. Although he had urately gauged Hendrick''s suspicious nature and deliberately employed psychological tactics, he didn''t reveal a hint of it on his face. His reckless disregard for his opponent couldn''t be any more remarkable.


    With every word spoken by Kallum,


    Hendrick''s hesitation grew. Be it


    jewels or real estate, he desired them all, but it wasn''t easy to take what belonged to Kallum. If he considered Kallum to be a reckless young scion who acted impulsively without thinking of the


    consequences, he would have fallen into thetter''s trap.


    That said, giving up on such a great opportunity was just too hard to ept.

 Chapter 262 What A Ridiculous Idea

    Hendrick gritted his teeth. Observing Callum''s nonchnt and contemptuous expression, he couldn''t tell whether Callum was genuinely unafraid or simply putting on an act. However, gambling so much on a single blood test was clearly unwise. Just as he was caught in a state of indecision, one of the parties involved made a bted appearance.


    "I was only gone for a short while, and this ce has suddenly gone quiet. What''s going on?"


    Calista and Wanda arrived together. In contrast to Kallum''s innate nobility, Calista exuded a feistiness that was cultivated over time. Even when she was smiling, her gaze was so piercing it was impossible to meet.


    Upon seeing Calista, a wave of relief washed over Hendrick, who eximed aloud, "Calista, you finally showed up. Tell me, are you being held by the Fairchild family against your will?"


    Before anyone could react, he seized the initiative and then carefully observed Calista''s expression. It wasn''t just him; others were doing the same, eager to know if Calista was indeed held captive by Kallum as Hendrick had spected. "Why would you ask that?"


    Much to everyone''s disappointment, Calista''s reaction was anything but dramatic.


    She arched an eyebrow, casting a nce at Kallum. With a grin, she said, "What a ridiculous idea."


    "Stop pretending!" Seeing Calista involuntarily looking at Kallum''s expression whenever something happened, the wavering Hendrick suddenly became a bit more resolute.


    His thoughts regained their order, and he slowly said, "Since you don''t understand what I mean, why don''t you answer a few questions?"


    Hendrick''s narrow eyes were fixed on her.


    "You''ve made significant advancements in the research of the K virus, so why haven''t you made it public?"


    Calista looked at him with some surprise. "How did you find out about my achievement? I was nning to make a sensational announcement after defeating the virus. Wasn''t the Fairchild family supposed to help me suppress those rumors from Corleon? I didn''t expect someone to find out ahead of time..."


    Calista''s expression held a hint of disappointment, and she even shot Kallum a reproachful nce, seemingly ming him for his ipetence.


    Cognizant that she was there to support him, Kallum smilingly reached out to take her hand.


    "Some people just can''t help their paranoia, even going as far as to suggest that I''ve imprisoned you! They also used me of manipting your father. Don''t you think these people are absurd?"


    Once Kallum finished speaking, he gave Hendrick a somewhat displeased look. "Didn''t you insist on betting? I''ve alreadyid out my conditions. Where''s your stake? As long as your stake can satisfy me, I''ll let you test my blood right here and now!"


    The two of them were ying off each other so well that not only were the guests left in confusion, but Hendrick also wavered in his belief.


    On one side was Harvey''s fervent conjectures, while on the other, was Kallum''s ambiguous stance. Winning the gamble would naturally be great, but he wasn''t Kallum and couldn''t afford to lose.


    Sweat began to break out on his


    forehead. Right when he was about


    to decide whether to ept the wager ormot, Calista suddenlyughed. "Alright, stop scaring him. You know very well that I''m


    pregnant, yet you insist on


    asing


    him. I can''t believe how mischievous you are!" This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Her statement triggered an uproar immediately. Calista is pregnant!


    Kallum was taken aback, although not noticeably. Quickly, he furrowed his brows. "Why did you reveal it?"


    He pulled her into his arms. Despite standing at a height of one point six eight meters and wearing high heels, Calista appeared surprisingly petite and submissive in Kallum''s embrace. Kallum cast his gaze down to Calista''s belly, a hint ofplexity shed in his eyes before he finally lowered his voice to speak.


    "Also... Didn''t I tell you not toe out? You should rest properly for the sake of our child."


    When he mentioned ''our child'', his voice carried a subtle hint of emotion. He cast a profound gaze over Calista''s t stomach and subconsciously touched it.


    His tender gaze and cautious movements were so convincing that everyone instantly believed that Calista was indeed pregnant!


    Even if she wasn''t, the rtionship


    between the two of them wasn''t as


    Hendrick had spected-one of exploitation and imprisonment. When Kallum held Calista, his longing for her was obvious to everyone.


    "You... what did you say? You''re pregnant?"


    Finally, Hendrick revealed a shocked expression. His narrowed eyes were wide open, clearly disying the extent of his surprise.


    He had observed them for such a long time and gathered so much evidence, yet no amount of evidence couldpare to the persuasive power of Calista having a child. After all, the idea of a K-virus patient having their own child was incredulous.


    So, with just one sentence from Calista, his overbearing ims had been turned into aplete joke.


    At the moment when Hendrick was


    left stunned, the guests had already regained theirposure. It must be said that before Calista appearance, they were somewhat swayed by Hendrick''s words. After all, the things he mentioned, when pieced together, were quite terrifying upon deeper reflection.


    But now, the im that Kallum has been ill for a year was nothing short of absurd.


    Calista was quite pleased with everyone''s response, but she didn''t let her guard down. Instead, she yfully hugged Kallum back, speaking with a smile.


    "It''s alright. Everyone is bound to find out sooner orter..."


    A guest quickly chimed in, "This is wonderful news! Mr. Kallum, when are you and Ms. Stafford getting married?"

 Chapter 263 He Might Feel The Sting

    Another wealthydy chuckled and said, "It must be soon. After all, they already have a child."


    With a mix of surprise and uncertainty, Hendrick looked at Calista, who appeared calm andposed despite the situation. He was taken aback by her serene demeanor.


    That''s impossible! If Calista was in that kind of rtionship with Kallum, why would she be constantly monitored by him? Why would he even have her father under surveince? Leaving other matters aside, let''s take tonight for instance. Why did Kallum choose to y his tricks precisely at the moment when blood tests were being conducted in public? The only exnation is that Calista is lying! She has been manipted by Kallum, and now she has no choice but to help him clear his name, hence the deliberate im of her being pregnant!


    Aftering to a realization, Hendrick''s expression became serious, and he suddenly said, "You''re pregnant, Ms. Stafford? That sure was rather quick. As it happens, I brought a military doctor with me. How about you grant me a defeat that will leave me utterly Kallum hadpletely run out of patience with Hendrick. Now that the crisis was over, there was no need for further chatter. He looked at Hendrick with displeasure and said, "Are you done yet? Paul, escort Mr. Hendrick out!"


    convinced?"


    Noticing that Kallum was ready to have a thorough falling out, Hendrick had to leave this matter unresolved unless he was truly confident enough to risk that.


    Just as Hendrick remained hesitant, Calista suddenly peeked out from Kallum''s embrace.


    "What could you offer me in return if I allowed you to examine me?"


    Snapped back to reality, Hendrick hastily replied, "The five docks that Harvey gave me will be yours!"


    After all, in a way, whether Calista was pregnant or not would show if Kallum had lied. Therefore, this news was indeed valuable.


    Calista extended two fingers and said, "I''m aware of the five docks Harvey gifted you, located on the southern coast. Between those five docks, there are two docks which belong to the Murray family. If you agree to hand them over to me as well, I will allow you to conduct a blood test."


    After all, in the early stages of pregnancy, a blood test was the most convincing examination.


    Hendrick hesitated for a moment. If he agreed, the entire southern coast would belong to the Fairchild family. However, his hesitation didn''tst long. Compared to Kallum, who casually bet all the maritime resources, Calista''s request could be considered rather mild. Considering the many uncertainties surrounding the situation, he believed Calista was likely bluffing. As such, he gritted his teeth and said, "All right; I agree!"


    Calista chuckled lightly and gently extended her hand. "Go ahead and draw my blood, but be careful. I''m afraid of pain."


    Herposed demeanor only increased Hendrick''s sense of unease. However, due to a shred of unwillingness in his heart, he still ordered the military doctor to draw her blood.


    Although many guests no longer harbored any doubts about the matter, they still kept their eyes intently on Calista, eagerly awaiting the results of the blood test.


    This time, Hendrick arrived fully prepared, so the results of the blood test came out immediately.


    The military doctor looked a bit distressed as he quietly told Hendrick, "It indicates a pregnancy, but due to the early stage, the exact duration of the pregnancy cannot be determined yet."


    The words that followed fell on deaf ears for Hendrick, and his expression turned extremely unsightly.


    With a mysterious smile, Calista pressed a hand against her bleeding wound and asked, "Now we can clear Kallum''s name, can''t we?"


    She tilted her head, smiling as she continued, "Or are you implying that this child isn''t Kallum''s? In that case, I can only wait for you to return in a few months for a DNA test using my amniotic fluid."


    Her yful tone made everyone burst intoughter, leaving Hendrick, who originally intended to question the pregnancy, speechless.


    "What a joke! Would Mr. Kallum ever raise someone else''s child?"


    Their gazes gave Hendrick a feeling of constant unease. He could almost envision the severe punishment that awaited him upon his return. Especially when others looked at him with an expression that was part mockery and part amusement, he felt like a fool, toyed with by the couple before him.


    "Are you satisfied now?" Kallum asked with a distinctly displeased expression. He was certain that Calista must have done something to get these results, but it didn''t matter at that point. Even if it was all an act, his confidence was not diminished in the slightest.


    Seemingly struggling to ept the oue, Hendrick didn''t respond.


    Calista nestled in Kallum''s arms, chuckling mischievously as she said, "This is great! I''ve gained so much without doing anything! It''s like winning the lottery! All of Horington will be green with envy tomorrow!"


    They were indeed envious, their


    jealousy had already surfaced. It was seven docks, all connected, which was equivalent to taking over almost half of the southern coast. They had to work for so many years to earn these things, yet Calista only needed to shed the first drop of blood to have it all.


    Upon seeing Calista having a good time, Kallum sarcastically followed her lead and said, "You should thank Mr. Hendrick properly when he sends the items over, Callie. He may not cherish what others give him, but he might feel the sting for a while for the two things he''s given away himself."


    The two of them were growing more and more in sync. Even without prior discussion, they had the ability to leave others utterly exasperated. Hendrick''s face turned ashen, and he was so taken aback that he couldn''t utter a single word for quite some time. Even if he was filled with reluctance, there was no way he could force a blood test on Kallum in thetter''s territory.


    Calista still wasn''t satisfied and added deliberately, "I suppose Mr. Hendrick must be very upied, right? We won''t overstay our wee, then. I''ll be waiting for your handover agreement at the Fairchild residence. If possible, please send my regards to Harvey."


    She then continued with a


    mischievous smile, "You could alsoThis content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    tell Harvey that if he wants to give me a gift, he doesn''t have to be so subtle about it. I''ve always weed good things with open arms Please ensure that you inform Harvey at the earliest opportunity that I have sessfully received his five docks. I''m certain he''ll be overjoyed. Given his sincerity, I won''t cause him any trouble as long as he behaves well in the future."

 Chapter 264 What Am I To You

    Everyone believed that if Harvey, who had been anxiously waiting in the hospital, probably wouldn''t faint with joy if he heard that Hendrick''s efforts had only yielded such a result. Instead, he might just drop dead from sheer frustration. Hendrick gritted his teeth as he realized his assumptions had possibly been off.


    There''s no way a sharp-tongued woman like Calista ever be controlled by anyone! It''s possible that I have fallen into Kallum''s trap. Perhaps both Harvey and I have been deceived by the illusions Kallum had intentionally created!


    In the end, Hendrick left without uttering a single word, taking the police with him under a cloud of gloom. The banquet then resumed its previous merriment. At this point, Calista, who was nestled in Kallum''s arms, finally let out a long sigh of relief.


    "With this baby in my tummy, we can consider today''s matter resolved. However, this isn''t a sustainable solution. What about Mrs. Yost who leaked the information? Who is holding her ountable?" she said seriously.


    "Gunner." Kallum seemed notably distracted, his gaze inexplicably unfocused. After exchanging greetings with Ss, he took Calista and left in advance.


    Tonight had been a close call, but ultimately uneventful. Both Ss and Wanda breathed a sigh of relief, quickly urging everyone to get some rest.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Ignoring everyone else, Kallum led Calista toward the room. It was as if he was in a trance.


    In the corridor, Calista continued,


    "The head of the Yost family certainly wouldn''t have known about this. That person wouldn''t do something so foolish. Regina must be harboring resentment toward me and acted on her own initiative. Shouldn''t we deal with Harvey''s situation? I''m worried that after today''s provocation, he might act desperately. Sometimes, people can be terrifying when they lose their minds. After all, even though Harvey has fallen, he still has connections that we''re not aware of."


    "Callie."


    Kallum suddenly halted, not turning back, but his grip on Calista''s hand subtly tightened.


    "Hmm?"


    In the depth of the night, the open-air corridor was filled with the scent of flowers from outside. The stars were like tiny specks of light, and a gentle breeze was blowing. Setting aside the presence of those who were bothersome, it was a truly beautiful night. In Kallum''s eyes, however, the person he was holding was even more beautiful.


    At that moment, his heart was pounding. He didn''t even dare to look back, for he was afraid that the sight of Calista''s excessively beautiful face might cause him to lose control and do something beyond reason.


    His palm was slightly damp, but his grip on Calista''s hand only grew tighter.


    "Do you even realize what you''re doing right now? You''ve tied yourself to mepletely. If, and I mean if, I end up dead, my father won''t treat you the same way I do. Then, you will be in for a rough ride having the Murray family as your enemy. Do you understand what I''m saying?"


    He finally turned around, his deep purple eyes mirroring the profound darkness of the night outside, shimmering with a radiance that Calista couldn''tprehend.


    Calista found that Kallum would often act out of the ordinary ever since he fell ill.


    "So?"


    She was well aware of everything that Kallum had said. However, she simply didn''t think that his life would be in danger if she was around.


    Did she really just say that?


    Kallum''s throat bobbed as he asked in a hoarse voice, "So, where do I stand in your heart? Every time I think you''ve treated me well enough, you always treat me even better. What am I to you, really?"


    This wasn''t the first time he had asked this question, causing Calista to reveal a look of bewilderment.


    What does Kallum symbolize? If I really had to put it into words, I''d say he probably symbolizes safety.


    In her past life, the majority of people she encountered caused her substantial harm. Whether it was her ruined hand, her scarred face, or the three years of torment she endured at the research center, all those experiences cast an indelible


    shadow over her.


    Kallum was different, though. He didn''t fancy her and constantly kept his distance from her. Although she had been implicated by him, she had never been hurt by him.


    In the past, she chased after him, so she brought his ridicule upon herself. As such, Kallum wasn''t the one who hurt her, but rather her own inability to see the reality around her.


    From the very beginning, Kallum made it clear that he didn''t like her, and he had never lied about it.


    Hence, Kallum was safe, and he was indeed special. After all, she had harbored feelings for him for such a long time in her previous life.


    "Still can''t figure it out?" Suddenly, Kallum took a step forward, leaving only a small gap between him and Calista. As he lowered his head, their breaths intertwined, causing his breathing to hasten slightly.


    His handsome face was taut, noticing that Calista was still deep in thought. He felt somewhat agitated, for the question he asked was simply to hear her affirm her love for him. That was the only reason he believed she would go to such lengths for him.


    The mere thought of Calista uttering


    the words "I love you" stirred an inexplicable eleration in Kallum''s heartbeat. His cheeks flushed with warmth, and even though it was just his imagination, he felt an


    overwhelming sense of nervousness that left him at a loss for what to do.


    Hence, he was assertively pressing, his hopeful eyes fixed on Calista.


    He acknowledged that for someone like him, who couldn''t even control his own fate, to pursue love was viewed by others as an irresponsible act. However, he couldn''t restrain his longing to hear Calista dere her love for him. His desire was akin to a fish yearning for water, he felt as if he was suffocating.

 Chapter 265 Still Not Sure About Your Feelings

    He took a deep breath and urged her once more. As if the deep affection in his eyes was about to overflow, he gently caressed Calista''s face with his burning hot palm.


    "You were willing to reveal your medical skills for me, risk danger in Corleon for me, and forsake your reputation for me. Even knowing my situation, you were still willing to make enemies for my sake. Callie, are you still not sure about your feelings?" It was clear to me that you loved me deeply, so why didn''t you say it? Kallum''s feelings were a bittersweet mix at the thought of that.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista was somewhat exasperated. Matters like these usually take their own course, so why is Kallum so interested?


    Seeing Kallum looking at her with anticipation, Calista had no choice but to say, "Yes, you are a very important person to me. Satisfied?"


    She wasn''t lying, though. If it weren''t for leveraging Kallum''s influence, she would likely still be engaged in a power struggle with the Stafford family and Quincy. Instead, in such a short span of time, she had effortlessly trampled all her enemies underfoot. A very important person? That''s not enough! That''s simply not enough!


    Kallum''s agitation heightened. He opened his mouth, then tightly closed it, opened it again, only to close it tightly once more.


    In the end, he forcefully loosened his tie, surrendering to his emotions, and said out loud as if he had given up on himself, "Can''t you just say ''I love you''?"


    Calista was taken aback. How did the conversation suddenly shift to this?


    Kallum forcefully lifted her face.


    "I''m not one for beating around the bush. Your actions have already said it all. Why can''t you be a bit sweeter with your words, huh?"


    Calista blinked and stepped back in slight frustration as she asked, "Are you out of your mind?"


    Kallum was visibly tense, and his eyes held a thousand unspoken words. However, they were all in vain when faced with someone who was unromantic. How could I possibly be attracted to a woman like Calista?


    Seeing his face turn red with anger, Calista couldn''t help but let out a chuckle. "Sweeter? All right, then. I''ll make it sweeter next time. Now, off to bed with you!"


    Her stunning smile and nonchnt words left Kallum deeply unsatisfied. With one hand, he effortlessly pinned Calista between the wall and his body. "Is it really that hard to say you love me?"


    "You''re acting a bit off tonight..." Calista shook her head and got ready to wriggle out from under his arm.


    Kallum took a step forward, pressing against her body, preventing her from making any rash movements.


    His deep violet eyes were fixed on her, unwavering. It was this face that haunted his dreams every night, a sight he could never get enough of.


    The atmosphere was a bit intimate, but Calista remained unfazed. After all, Kallum couldn''t possibly do anything to her. She had also grown ustomed to his endearing gestures like kisses and hugs.


    She even went on to say, "If you desire intimacy, could we possibly not do it in this position? It''s causing me difort."


    Kallum felt somewhat disheartened. He couldn''t detect a shred of affection from her joking tone and the look in her eyes. It wasn''t like before, when Calista''s gaze always seemed to hold substance.


    In the past, he could sense Calista sneakily watching him without even needing to look back. Her fervent gaze was so intense that it could make one''s skin tingle.


    Back then, he would always re back fiercely. But now, he wished that Calista could look at him again with that same gaze. It was a gaze filled with deep love, as if he was the only person in the world to her. "I can''t see through your thoughts at all now..."


    Kallum''s voice was a hushed murmur,ced with a hint of helplessness.


    He looked at her with aplex gaze, then reached out, gently using his fingertips to tuck a loose strand of her hair behind her ear.


    "You have no idea how excited I was tonight when you told me you were carrying my child... Oh, how much I wished..."


    His gaze gradually lowered,ing to rest on Calista''s stomach.


    "How much I wished you were truly carrying my child."


    The smile on Calista''s face gradually faded, turning into a serious expression.


    The atmosphere between the two suddenly grew tense. Calista studied him intently for a moment before a smile slowly returned to her face.


    "I understand why you harbor such thoughts. When one''s own life and death are beyond control, the idea of a new life being born seems almost like a continuation of one''s own existence."


    She looked straight into Kallum''s


    eyes, her tone serious yet slightly


    aloof as she continued, "But what will tell you is, you must have faith in me, and in yourself. I will cure you, so you won''t need to rely on having a child to prolong your life."


    "No, it''s not like that! You simply don''t understand!" Kallum bit his lower lip, looking at her with aplex expression.


    He then took a deep breath, whispering into Calista''s ear in the softest of tones,


    "I simply wished for you to bear a child. If only hadn''t made you take that pill after our first time, or performed that reconstruction surgery out of spite. Perhaps you could be carrying my child from that


    moment on!"


    His eyes sparkled slightly. The mere thought of a child that had a blend of their very essence, set his blood racing with excitement.


    "I understand that my thoughts were selfish, but all I wished for was that you were carrying my child at that time. I truly wanted a child, one that belonged solely to us."


    As Kallum spoke, he held onto Calista''s hand tightly.


    For the past two decades, he had


    never entertained the thought of marriage. The idea was too wild, considering his youth. Among the powerful and influential people in the world, it was rare for anyone to marry before they hit thirty, and having children came even ater. Of


    course, illegitimate children didn''t count. But now, as he held her hand, imagining a child of their own, he felt an unexpected sense of fulfillment in life.

 Chapter 266 His Feeble Side

    Calista''s expression became peculiar in an instant. She didn''t know how to face Kallum. His words even stirred an urge tough within her. He wants to have a child with me? Was the Kallum I encountered in my past life truly the same person as the one I met in this life? Seeing that Calista remained silent, Kallum continued to speak emotionally. "I know this idea sounds insane, but if I were to die, would you be willing to have a child for me?"


    Kallum stared at her with his piercing gaze, but as soon as he finished speaking, he snapped back to reality andughed at himself in self-mockery. "What nonsense am I speaking? I can''t believe I made such a request of you."


    Admittedly, in his current condition, it was challenging to have a healthy child, but it wasn''t impossible. The only issue was that why would Calista bear a child for him? Just because I want her to remain connected with me even after my death?


    Upon seeing the look in Kallum''s eyes, a mix of pain, scorn, and yearning, Calista felt the urge to understand him for the first time. Unlike before, when she could casually dismiss half of what Kallum said, the Kallum before her at that moment was entirely unfamiliar to her. He was restless, agitated, and gloomy.


    She had never seen that side of him before.


    Confused, Calista asked directly, "What do you want me to do?"


    Kallum noticed how indifferently Calista treated him. No matter how profoundly he spoke, her expression remained impassive, so much so that he felt as if his mood swings were just a one-sided performance.


    At times, he found her calmness truly heartbreaking.


    Suffering from a slight emotional breakdown, Kallum took a step back, his expression tense. As he spoke, his words were nearly incoherent.


    "What do I want you to do? If I tell you, will you just do it?" He gazed at Calista, his tone suddenly filled with sorrow. "But I don''t even know what I want you to do. Let''s just leave it at that. I think I''m going a bit mad."


    After he finished speaking, he surprisingly left Calista alone and walked away. His steps were slightly erratic, which gave Calista a sense of something amiss, but she couldn''t quite put it into words.


    She would neverprehend how perilous were the intentions in Kallum''s final gaze upon her.


    He pondered. If I truly can''t bear to part with her, why don''t I drag her to death with me? Why not? If a person has a soul, and if I were to see Calista with someone else after my death, wouldn''t I be unable to rest in peace? Considering how good Calista has already been to me, why can''t she apany me in death?


    Although those terrifying, chaotic thoughts were fleeting, they had been urring more and more frequently ofte. Kallum felt as though he was being driven to madness. I''m deeply in love with Calista. Perhaps we can only be together forever if we perish together, right? After fleeing back to his room, Kallum struggled for a long time to regain hisposure.


    He was seated on the bed for a quarter of an hour when suddenly, he swept everything off the desk onto the floor. Then, due to a surge of pain in his body, he curled up on the carpet.


    The viciousness of the K Virusy in


    the fact that the pain intensified over


    time. He was human, after all. Although Kallum could endure, the


    endurance only amplified his suffering. Hence, when Calista wasThis content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Event


    not looking, he would silently


    his pain, just like he was doing now.


    "Callie! Calista!"


    As Kallum harked back to the night he and Calista were set up, his distress and regret intensified. Why did I do such a thing in the first ce? Could I really go to such extremes when I truly despised someone? He felt like he was losing his mind.


    Separated from Kallum by the door, Calista contemted whether or not to knock.


    She was originally sharing a room with Kallum, but his sudden departure left her feeling lost. After hesitating for a moment, she decided to follow him. Seeing the door closed, she hesitated again. Then, she heard the sound of something shattering inside. Startled, she quickly opened the


    door and entered. "Kallum?"


    Kallum had knocked over a small tea table, causing shards of ss to scatter across the floor. Overwhelmed by difort, his leg was cut by the broken ss as he thrashed, staining the carpet with fresh blood. Calista attempted to assist him but was stopped by Kallum''s outstretched hand. "Don''t move!"


    His blood was the most dangerous thing. He couldn''t possibly let Calista take that risk. Therefore, even when his mind was still clouded, he instinctively stopped her.


    However, Calista didn''t have the luxury of worrying about all that now. The K Virus could significantly weaken the human immune system, making even the smallest injuries or illnesses potentially fatal. "You should be the one to stop moving!" Calista ignored him. She had no injuries on her hands and believed that as long as she was careful, there would be no issue.


    When Kallum saw that she was not obeying, he suddenly seized her hands with both of his, pressing her onto the carpet. He rested his head on her chest, preventing her from touching his injured foot.


    "Kallum!"


    When he exerted his strength, Calista was no match for him. Hence, she was held down. She frowned in confusion. I''m a doctor. Should he be pushing me away at such a moment?


    Kallum remained silent, doing his


    utmost to restrain himself. He didn''t


    want Calista to see his disheveled


    side, so Ke only allowed his pain to show when she wasn''t around He figured if Calista were to see him in distress, that would make him appear frail.


    Calista was utterly exasperated with him. Why is he being so stubborn at a time like this?

 Chapter 267 Rather Not Recover

    "Don''t move." Kallum''s voice was somewhat weak yet clearer than before. "If you let me hold you for a while, the pain will subside." "How could this be possible?"


    Calista was at her wits'' end, feeling utterly trapped and helpless. She couldn''t resist, but she couldn''t just let Kallum lie there. After some rumination, she realized Kallum''s unusual behavior seemed to have started after she mentioned "pregnancy."


    Although she felt nothing for the word at the moment and didn''t understand what Kallum was fussing about, it wasn''t difficult for her to figure out a way tofort him under such circumstances.


    Calista said, "If having a child would give you a sense of security, I''d be willing to have one with you."


    Her words caused Kallum to abruptly lift his head, his eyes, filled with yearning, gleamed in the darkness.


    Calista pondered over the practical possibilities.


    "Although it''s a bit of a hassle, it''s not impossible to extract a healthy sperm from you. You could even choose whether you want a boy or a girl."


    Calista''s words stirred a fervor in Kallum, causing his blood to boil. Why is Calista always so unreservedly good to me? It''s as if she can satisfy my every need. She must love me very much, just like before. Only, she has learned to disguise it now, intentionally keeping it unsaid.


    "Will you truly bear a child for me?" There was a hint of longing in Kallum''s voice. Although it was an outrageous request to ask a woman to bear his child, especially if he were to die, he couldn''t keep his greed in rein when it came to Calista. He deeply desired to leave a permanent mark on her.


    Calista let out a sigh. Even without seeing her, Kallum could imagine the profound look of helplessness etched onto her typically indifferent face.


    "If you insist on it."


    Kallum chuckled in satisfaction.


    "Are you willing to let me bandage you up now? Perhaps bandaging won''t be enough. I might have to stitch you up." Calista''s tone suddenly turned serious. "I had no idea that you were suffering so much when I wasn''t around. How intense is your pain every day now? Why didn''t Old Mr. Yancey tell me?"


    Needless to say, it was Kallum who forbade Shaun from informing Calista. Kallum fell silent for a moment, realizing that given his current situation, he really couldn''t afford to be reckless. With a worried tone, he instructed, "You should put on gloves first or let Old Mr. Yanceye over."


    Having said that, he reluctantly let go of her wrist.


    In haste, Calista stood up and assisted Kallum in sitting down by the bed. She then went to fetch some medicine and gloves. She was quite adept at stitching wounds.


    Once the lights were fully turned on, the exact severity of Kallum''s wounds was revealed. Calista furrowed her brows, carefully cutting open the leg of the suit trousers to expose a bloody calf.


    The cut was quite severe this time,


    requiring over a dozen stitches. However, given Kallum''s current condition, taking painkillers wasn''t suitable. Hence, she hesitated as she raised her head to speak. "I''m going to stitch you up. It might hurt a Bit, so try to bear with it,


    Kallum gazed at Calista kneeling beside him on one knee. Her caring tone and gentle actions left him feeling somewhat ted. "Do you know?"


    "Yes?" Calista responded without looking up.


    "Your presence has an analgesic effect."


    "What?" Calista looked at him curiously, noticing his lips, which were slightly pale moments ago, were curved into a smirk.


    "Whenever you''d say things I wanted to hear or when you''d allow me to hold you, miraculously, I wouldn''t feel any pain. Therefore, you don''t need to worry about how much I suffer normally. When you''re with me, I don''t feel any distress at all."


    Once again, Calista wore a look of bewilderment. However, she had grown ustomed to not delving too deeply into such remarks, as Kallum had made them numerous times before. How could someone''s presence possibly alleviate pain? Surely, such a statement can''t be trusted.


    Seeing Calist? intently and meticulously stitching his wound, Kallum felt surprisingly numb. Perhaps the pain from earlier in the night had numbed him to the point where he barely felt the needle piercing his flesh. Instead, he found himself carefully observing her


    docile side.


    A smile unconsciously yed on his lips. Callie has agreed to have my child! Still... "If I were to die, I wouldn''t let you bear a child."


    After snapping back to his senses, Kallum understood clearly that if he were truly to die, despite his reluctance to leave her, he would not wish for her to be a single mother. His own suffering paled inparison to the thought of her being in distress.


    Calista''s hand, holding the needle, paused momentarily before she continued stitching. Indeed, her previous assumption about Kallum merely losing his mind was correct. She understood well that prolonged illness could lead to peculiar changes in a person''s character. The same thing had happened to her. Her three years at the research institute had shaped her current personality. Sometimes, she found it hard to believe that she used to be the way she was.


    Seeing her engrossed in stitching up his wound, Kallum chose to remain silent, allowing silence to fill the air inside the room. He could now clearly perceive Calista''s clear fragrance.


    With his eyes closed, Kallum, seemingly nonchntly, asked all of a sudden, "Would you still be this kind to me if I were to recover?"


    Calista paused, her gloved hand wavering slightly, uncertainty showing in her actions.


    "Perhaps." So far, our rtionship has been mutually beneficial, hasn''t it?All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Kallum chuckled lightly. "If you wouldn''t, I''d rather not recover."


    "Aren''t you feeling awful now?" I can''t believe he''s considering not recovering. Those infected moan in pain every night, wishing for a swift end. Yet, he actually uttered such foolish words.

 Chapter 268 The Unrepented Regina

    Kallum opened his eyes. His violet irises were fixated on her. His voice was soft, yet it carried a significant weight. "Without you, my suffering would be greater." Calista couldn''t help but look up, and the moment their eyes met, she suddenly felt as if she had been scorched.


    This feeling was somewhat out of control as if something had suddenly stirred the deepest part of her heart. It was a slightly sour and swelling sensation, yet not entirely unpleasant. After suturing the wound, Calista removed her gloves and stood up. However, her foot had gone numb, causing her to stumble forward and fall directly into Kallum''s arms.


    Her ear pressed against Kallum''s chest. Suddenly, he began tough, and the muffled sound of hisughter seeped into her ears.


    "You can always throw yourself into my arms more often in the future. It makes me really happy!"


    Finally, unable to hold back any longer, Calista rolled her eyes and hoisted herself up.


    "You should really think about how you''re going to deceive them. They definitely won''t let this go easily. The real question is, when will your health improve?" She furrowed her brows. "Once things are settled here, I have to return to Corleon. It seems like our research on the K Virus has hit a roadblock again. Despite our efforts and the fact that we''re leading globally in this research, it''s still not enough."


    She furrowed her brows, emphasizing her point once more. "It''s not enough!"


    Kallum didn''t want to part ways with her. To be frank, his life was hanging by a thread. Despite his strong confidence in himself and in her, he was still terrified of the possibility that one day he might fall asleep and never wake up to see her face again. "I''ll go with you. I can temporarily delegate my work to my father."


    Seeing his resolute attitude, there wasn''t much left for Calista to say, so she could only agree. "All right. That is if you manage to go abroad sessfully."


    Meanwhile, after Harvey learned about Hendrick''s intervention and disastrous defeat, he was so upset that he nearly passed out.


    After being resuscitated at the hospital, he was utterly baffled. How could Calista possibly be pregnant? If the child isn''t Kallum''s, it''ll be revealed in due time. How could she be pregnant?


    No matter how Harvey thought


    about it, he felt that something was off with Kallum. The Fairchild family was powerful and influential, so it was improbable for them to suddenly intervene in global issues, especially without absolute certainty of sess. The only exnation Harvey could think of was that the Fairchild family needed to conquer the K Virus. Therefore, they were willing to spend arge sum of money on it.


    Moreover, Regina''s intelligence that night confirmed his suspicions. There were too many areas of doubt. It was clear that something was wrong with Kallum, but they simply couldn''t get him toply. Even if the Murray family intervened, they didn''t have the ability to force Kallum to undergo a blood test.


    Moreover, the thought of his lost dock pained Kallum''s heart. After being forced into a division of the family assets, he did receive his rightful share. However, the prospect of him making aeback seemed impossible now, especially since he lost five docks.


    Even though he suffered such a significant loss, he couldn''t even inflict the slightest damage on the Fairchild family. He couldn''t me the Murray family either. After all, they, too, had their own losses.


    The more one suffered losses, the more crazed they became. The desperation to drag their enemies down with them would gradually lead to a reckless gambler''s mentality, which could drive a person tomit horrifying acts.


    "If even the Murray family can''t force Kallum toply, I''ll have no choice but to escte the situation. I refuse to believe. I simply refuse to believe that I can''t bring him down!"


    With a terrifying thought forming in mind, Harvey made a call with trembling hands. Even if it meant risking everything he had, he couldn''t let Kallum off the hook. He knew clearly that once Kallum got through this sensitive period, he would be the first one to be targeted by thetter. Therefore, Harvey decided he had to drag Kallum down before thetter could make a move.


    Even though it could lead to terrifying consequences, at that point, there was no room for such considerations.


    At the same time, Regina had been taken away by the Yost family. In a way, Regina instigated that night''s events. Therefore, Wanda, for the first time, took on the demeanor of a superior, disregarding their families'' years of friendship. No matter how George pleaded, Wanda remained unmoved and firmly severed their ties.


    However, the prospect of severing ties wasn''t what terrified George. It was the potential revenge that followed. The mere thought of the possible repercussions caused George to grimace. Regina''s actions were tantamount to positioning the entire Yost family against the Fairchild family. The rtionship he had painstakingly maintained for years had gone down the drain in an instant.


    "Why on earth would you do


    something so foolish?" George


    eximed. "You wanted to avenge Mirabelle, but why would you listen to Harvey and cause trouble for Kallum? Even Harvey''s own brothers are avoiding him, yet you dared to join forces with him. You! You''re nothing but trouble! If you were only causing problems for your own family, that would be one thing. But now, who knows what the Fairchild family is thinking? They might even think this was my idea. How did I end up marrying such a troublesome woman?"


    Despite being harshly scolded, Regina didn''t dare to retort. All she could do was cry.


    "I really didn''t know it would turn out like this. Boohoo... Mirabelle suffered so much in jail. This is a rare opportunity, so how could I let it slip? Should I have let Mirabelle suffer in vain?"


    "You!" Upon seeing Regina''s unrepentant demeanor, George was nearly driven to his wit''s end by her.


    "But did you get your revenge?Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Hendrick came tonight, but what''s the use? Did he dare to pressure Kallum into a blood test? Did Kallum dare to gamble with him? It was only you! You acted thoughtlessly. Not only did you fail to cause them the slightest harm, but youpletely brought your own downfall! Do you think what you did would benefit Mirabelle? You''re actually causing more harm to her!"

 Chapter 269 K Virus

    Regina immediately became anxious. She clutched George''s sleeve and asked in an urgent manner, "What should we do now? Mr. Kallum was fine tonight, wasn''t he? The Fairchild family shouldn''t do anything to us, right?"


    George''s face darkened. "How can they not retaliate? The Fairchild family wants to suppress the rumors, but you went and did something like this! What happens to our family next is now up to fate!"


    He muttered in frustration, "No, I can''t just be passive! I can''t let the Yost family be ruined in my hands!"


    George''s words suddenly struck a chord with Regina. She stopped crying abruptly, her expression turning peculiar as she said, "Maybe it is not just rumors..."


    Seizing this as a lifeline, she nced at the driver, lowered her voice, and whispered in George''s ear, "There might really be something off with Mr. Kallum. After I touched that water today, I tested it with a test strip, and it changed color. That was not pure water! This means that Mr. Kallum''s blood test tonight was off!"


    George had been anxiously thinking of ways to regain the Fairchild family''s favor-or at least not be their enemy. Suddenly, a gleam appeared in his eyes after he heard Regina''s words.


    "You mean Harvey''s suspicions were correct? Kallum is really..."


    Regina nodded. "Unfortunately, I could not bring the evidence out, but it is true. The water Mr. Kallum used for his blood test was tampered with. If he was not infected, why would he need to do this?"


    George covered her mouth to stop her from speaking further. This matter was too significant! If they had evidence of this, it would be a massive blow to the Fairchild family!


    His mind was in utter chaos. For a moment, he could not decide whether to be worried or ted. He knew he needed to go back and think things through. Perhaps he could use this to his advantage, to deter the Fairchilds from making a move against him... Just then, his phone rang.


    Seeing the caller ID, George frowned. Why is Harvey so persistent? The Wolford family had already harmed my family this much, and now Harvey is calling me? We are not even close!


    But given the situation, he also wanted to know what Harvey wanted.


    "Harvey? You still dare to call?"


    George''s tone was harsh, making Harvey grit his teeth. Although they weren''t affiliated, George had always been respectful in public. Now he could call him by name in a brazen manner and speak condescendingly!


    But now was not the time to dwell on this. Harvey swallowed his resentment and said hoarsely, "Why wouldn''t I dare? Your woman could not even handle a simple task and got caught. That''s her stupidity, not my problem."


    His words angered George, but thetter also thought Regina was foolish. However, her sess was already a considerable achievement.


    "If that is all you have to say, then we have nothing more to discuss," George said, about to hang up.


    "Don''t you want to see the Fairchild family fall?" Harvey''s sudden question grabbed George''s attention.


    Harvey coughed twice, his voice increasingly hoarse, as if filled with sand. "Now, I am eighty percent sure that Kallum is indeed infected. We


    are in the same boat. If the Faced


    family remains unscathed, we are the ones in trouble!"


    From Harvey''s tone, it was clear he still wanted to make a big move.


    George asked in a mocking manner, "What more can you do? Let me be clear, the Yost family does not have the Murray family''s wealth. We do not have two ports to part with, Besides, as far as I know, you do not have the resources to bring in people with strong backgrounds, right?"


    "This time, we do not need them. Everyone is afraid of the Fairchild family. What''s the use of having them? I have an idea. If you can help me contact a few people who attended the banquet tonight, the Fairchild family is doomed!" George was intrigued but cautious, not wanting to get involved without knowing the n.


    "What do you have in mind? I might not help you."


    Harvey chuckled, sounding mysterious. "You will help me..."


    After a couple of peaceful days, suddenly, a piece of news came in, shattering the tranquility with a vengeance.


    K Virus patient found in Horington!


    The news caused a nationwide


    uproar! Chanaea had stringent


    disease control measures, so as


    soon as a few K Virus patients were identified, they


    e immediately


    isted. Shockingly, these


    individuals had all attended the


    Fairchild family banquet a few days


    prior.


    Rumors quickly spread throughout Horington, a densely popted metropolis. The mere mention of the K Virus sent the city into a panic. In smaller towns, it might have led to a full lockdown.


    A couple in the news agency discussed the news in a nervous manner.


    "Did you hear? Several people who attended the Fairchild family banquet contracted the K Virus!"


    "That''s terrifying. How did this virus get into the country?"


    "Who knows? But the most suspicious party is the Fairchild family. And let''s not forget about Calista, who not only researches the K Virus but also just returned from Corleon."All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 270 Rumors Circulating

    "And Mr. Kallum was bitten by Sterling! Sterling was immediately isted. For so long, the Wolford family had not had any idents, but the Fairchild family had trouble. It seems Mr. Kallum is indeed infected, just hanging on by a thread as the rumors say..." "If that is true, the Fairchild family is going too far. They secretly researched the K Virus for a cure and hid his condition! It is like they do not care about others'' lives!"


    "Anyway, it is better for us to stay indoors for a while. Those who got infected have all gathered at Fairchild Manor now. I heard that some of the servants taking care of them were even infected. If the state had not acted swiftly, it could have caused a widespread outbreak! These rich folks only care about themselves!"


    Such conversations spread throughout the city. Many people, swayed by public opinion, firmly believed the K Virus originated from the Fairchild family. Some even protested atpanies under the Fairchild Group, only to be suppressed. Fairchild Manor was also bustling with activity.


    "The Fairchild family must be ountable for this!" A woman cried angrily, "Just because they''re a prestigious family, they think they can disregard our lives! My son is only twenty-seven, in his prime, and now he''s infected! The Fairchild family must exin!" Another woman sobbed, "My daughter worked hard before she finally became a top reporter. Every time, she spoke well of the Fairchild family. But how do they treat her? If the Fairchild family does not exin, we will not let the matter rest!"


    Countless suchints filled the air, with everyone highly agitated. After all, the infected were all wealthy individuals and could not be easily dismissed.


    "We, the Fairchild family, guarantee that the K Virus did not originate from us!"


    The butler stood firm but faced even stronger bacsh.


    "Where''s the evidence? Unless you let Mr. Kallum go to the hospital for a blood test, we will not believe it!"


    "Recently, only the Fairchild family has had frequent contact with the K Virus. Who else could it be?"


    "Bring out Kallum! My son only has a month to live. If he dies, I will not live either! The Fairchild family has brought ruin upon us. We will not let you off the hook!" Wanda was so upset by the sudden outbreak that she fell ill. Ss had been on the phone non-stop, his furrowed brow never rxing.


    "Those troublemakers will not leave, and if this isn''t resolved soon, it''ll be a huge blow to thepany. Many shareholders have been calling, and we..."


    In a rush, the assistant reported to Ss, but with the situation urgent and bad news piling up, they could not think of a solution.


    "The masterminds behind this are insane to spread something like the K Virus! How many lives will be lost due to their carelessness?"


    Insiders of the Fairchild family knew very well that because Kallum had not injected the pain suppressant, his condition had remained stable. Plus, with a daily dose of the inhibitor, as long as no one touched his blood, there would be no infection!


    What happened that night was clear to everyone. Kallum had not been intimate with anyone except Calista. So the sudden outbreak of the K Virus in Horington was definitely orchestrated...


    "It must be Harvey." Calista frowned.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Initially, Sterling''s butler is now with


    Harvey. To prove whether he''s infected, Sterling must have provided a blood sample, and only his butler would have ess to that blood. So apart from the Wolford family having the K Virus and Harvey being capable of such things, I can''t think of anyone else."


    "D*mn! Such people should be eliminated!" Quintus eximed, his fury escting.


    If they had not just pulled Harvey down and feared that killing him would arouse suspicion, the


    Fairchild family would have actedet


    long age. Not killing him was to avoid others thinking the Fairchild family was being overly cautious out of guilt. Otherwise, they wouldn''t


    have waited until now.


    "Enough! There''s no use talking about it now. The key is, what do we do?" Gunner''s words left everyone feeling bewildered. They finally turned to Kallum.


    Kallum looked at his hands. "I must hold a press conference as soon as possible. Otherwise, if the state intervenes, things will only get messier. The state trusts our family for now, so I must clear my name before they take action. For example, conceal the truth from everyone."


    Calista tapped the table. "Deceive everyone? You mean ensuring nobody can detect your physical condition. That is a bit difficult, at least from a medical standpoint. I can''t think of a solution for the time being."


    "Then what about using an


    electronic interference device?"


    Ryder, who had been silent,


    suddenly spoke up. "I''ve seen a type of mini interference device. If work in the position of a watch, all instruments will malfunction when close by. Take the disease detector, for example. Originally, it would glow red when it touched Mr. Kallum''s blood. But with the interference device, the disy result would be uncertain."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 271 Good Idea

    "The oue mustn''t be left uncertain," Kallum interrupted. "But the interference device is a good idea. Have Quintus modify it to ensure that the disease detector will show a green light during the test." "Understood!" Quintus replied and quickly left. Modifying the detector would take time, so he needed to act fast.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    "They might use other testing methods," Calista said, sounding hesitant. "Blood tests are not the only tools. They could use test strips or other non-electronic devices. In that case, the interference device would be useless."


    Her concern was valid, but time was pressing. Kallum had to announce the press conference to calm the public before figuring out a foolproof n as dying further would only make things worse for him.


    Hearing that the Fairchild family would hold a press conference and that Kallum was willing to undergo a public blood test at the hospital, the protesters calmed down considerably.


    With the conference set for the day after tomorrow, they decided to wait, as making a fuss now seemed pointless.


    However, Harvey held his own press conference first.


    He feared the Fairchild family might kill him in anger before their conference if he didn''t appear in front of the public as soon as possible. Besides, to create momentum, he needed to release a statement first and sway public opinion quickly. He portrayed himself as a victim who knew the truth but was silenced by the Fairchild family, causing a huge stir in Horington.


    Everyone closely followed the developments, particrly focusing on Harvey.


    In the hospital ward, reporters swarmed around Harvey.


    "Mr. Wolford, is what you said true? Were you targeted by the Fairchild family because you discovered the truth?"


    Although most reporters were


    cautious, the Murray family was somewhat influential. To seek revenge for losing two ports, they got a few reporters from various radio stations and news agencies to interview Harvey. Besides, as the matter had escted, the state also started an investigation. Thus, some reporters who thought that the Fairchild family was doomed


    immediately went there to interview


    Harvey.


    Looking haggard and miserable, Harvey spoke weakly but passionately in front of numerous microphones. "That is right! Kallum was infected with the K Virus a year ago. Calista has been keeping him alive. I identally discovered his secret, which led to my current situation..."


    He continued pitifully, "This concerns everyone''s lives. To verify it, I had a friend secretly obtain the water used during Kallum''s blood test. It was not pure water! My friend tested it with a strip, and it changed color! If Kallum was fine, why tamper with the water? Unfortunately, my friend could not smuggle the evidence out of Fairchild Manor."


    Reporters snapped photos frantically. Someone asked, "Are you implying that Ms. Calista Stafford knows a lot about the K Virus and has a method to prolong the lives of infected patients?"


    A glint of malice shed in Harvey''s eyes.


    "Exactly! Calista definitely has such a method but refuses to reveal it. So many people have been isted because of Kallum, and their fates are uncertain. Yet, she hides the cure just for Kallum. It is heartless!"


    "Why would she do that? Shouldn''t she publish her findings?"


    Harvey sneered. "Perhaps you out-of-town reporters do not know, but Calista was betrothed to Kallum from a young age. She always loved him, but he didn''t feel the same, so they never had an official engagement. Yet, a year ago, Kallum''s attitude toward her, changed abruptly. It is suspicious! And they say women are blind in love. She was already infatuated with Kallum. Now, being


    sweet-talked by him, not only would she turn a blind eye to those dying, she''d probably even defend Kallum if he were to twist the truth! "


    As he spoke indignantly, he secretly gloated. This is perfect! I am setting the narrative first, so if Calista presents her research findingster, people will only use her of letting people die. If she presents her findings now to save lives, it is as good as admitting she has a way to prolong the lives of K Virus patients, indirectly confirming my suspicions. Anyway, whatever Calista does at this point is wrong!


    Harvey was stirring up trouble regardless of the consequences.


    He had nothing left to fear now. Things had reached a point of no return, all he could do was to make a big scene!


    Twelve people in Horington were infected. Barring any surprises, they would die in a month. Twelve lives could not just go unounted for.


    On the day Kallum held the press conference, the state would send someone to inspect. In other words, if Kallum had any issues, he would definitely not escape istion, and the Fairchild family''s reputation would suffer greatly as a result!

 Chapter 272 The Press Conference

    All the turmoil and strife urred behind the scenes, yet openly churned on the surface.


    Finally, the day of the Fairchild family''s press conference arrived.


    Too many people suspected that the K Virus leaked from the Fairchild family. Thus, on the day of the press conference, the entire venue was packed with people.


    The Fairchild family had countless adversaries, along with the families of the victims, state-appointed prosecutors, and swarming journalists. Within half an hour, the venue was already bursting at the seams. Many who could not enter waited outside, watching the sky grow darker, yet their hearts remained restless.


    "What do you think the Fairchild family will do to prove their innocence tonight?" a reporter whispered to a colleague.


    "They''ll probably do a blood test in public, but this time it can''t be like thest time where the Fairchild family handled everything. This time, the state will probably conduct the test to convince everyone."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "That makes sense, but since the Fairchild family dared to hold this press conference, I tend to believe them. If the K Virus really leaked from them, they wouldn''t have the confidence to do this."


    "I agree. They wouldn''t shoot themselves in the foot."


    Conversations of this sort stirred up quite a buzz throughout the entire venue.


    Kallum sat in the car, looking at the dense crowd outside, his expression stern.


    "Don''t worry, we''ve prepared thoroughly. Even if something unexpected happens, just trust me. I have a trump card!" Calista spoke lightly to reassure him.


    Feeling puzzled, Kallum asked, "A trump card? What did you do?"


    Calista smiled mysteriously, her eyes sparkling, "This is a secret! Since it is a trump card, it is absolutely foolproof. Of course, if we do not need to use it, we will not. When the timees, you''ll see." She raised her eyebrows slightly, her tone light. In this tense moment, Kallum could not help but find her funny.


    "I never thought you''d be one to keep secrets."


    He guessed Calista was eitherforting him or had some medicine that could help him pass the inspection temporarily.


    However, thetter seemed unlikely, as if she had such medicine, she wouldn''t keep it a secret unless it had significant side effects.


    Amid these vague thoughts, Harvey arrived.


    Harvey''s appearance made the reporters even more excited.


    In just a few days, Harvey had lost a lot of weight. Even Yelena might not recognize him at first nce now. Speaking of Yelena and Quincy, they were hiding in the Langley residence. Harvey had fallen to this point, and they had not shown up or spoken a word in his defense. Truly, birds of a feather flock together!


    Hooked on an IV drip, Harvey looked weak and pale, as if on the verge of death. His sluggish movements evoked a sense of pity.


    Who could recognize him as the once-revered head of the Wolford family from just a month ago? His fall from grace was harsh and brutal.


    Harvey had been stirring up trouble these past few days all for this very moment! The Fairchild family, in proving their innocence, could not avoid confronting him. After all, Harvey had vowed that he was targeted by the Fairchild family because he knew a secret.


    Not only Harvey but Hendrick, who


    had failed to gain anything the day before yesterday, also came. Prosecutors, reporters, the Fairchild family''s confidants, and enemies- everyone who should and shouldn''t be there was present. All that


    left was for the Fairchilds to arrive.


    At that moment, someone eximed softly, "They''re here!"


    Eight luxurious extended


    Rolls-Royces pulled up outside the open-air venue. From each car emerged impably dressed ck-suited bodyguards. From the most opulent dark-gold vehicle, a tall man in a deep blue suit stepped out. After getting off, he carefully helped a woman out of the car.


    Their appearance immediately drew everyone''s attention. Attractive people always garnered extra attention, especially when they were the focus of today''s event.


    They arrived hand in hand, without much fanfare, yet they appeared incredibly morous.


    "I think Mr. Kallum and his fianc¨¦e might be the most attractive couple in high society. Do you agree?" a young reporter murmured.


    Someone agreed, "No disagreement here. I was hoping for some big news today, but now, I suddenly hope Mr. Kallum is really fine. Their picture-perfect moment shouldn''t be marred by external troubles."


    At that moment, everyone''s attention was fixed on them. The originally noisy venue gradually quieted down.


    Only Kallum and Calista came today. Ss had been tied up because of public opinion, and Wanda had fallen ill. But just the two of them were enough. Theirposed entrance exuded enough presence tomand the room! Such charisma naturally invited envy.


    "Mr. Kallum! You are finally here! Harvey ims you were infected with the K Virus a year ago. What do you have to say about this?"


    "Mr. Kallum, is the Fairchild family really not involved in the Horington outbreak? Why are all the infected people attendees of the Fairchild family''s banquet?"


    "Mr. Kallum, is your family secretly researching the K Virus, leading to its leak in Horington? Could you respond to this?"

 Chapter 273 Pay The Price

    On both sides of the red carpet, the bodyguards formed an imprable wall, preventing any reporters from crossing the safety line. They could only raise their microphones and ask questions with great effort.


    But they received no responses. Kallum led Calista through the crowd with a cold, proud expression, his gaze sharp as they strode directly to the front stage.


    Under countless shing lights, Kallum remained extremelyposed. His handsome face, as hard as a sculpture, exuded an aura that warned others to stay away. His gaze cut through the crowd andnded directly on Harvey.


    The moment Harvey saw Kallum, his expression twisted with hatred, as if he wanted to pounce and tear off a piece of their flesh!


    If it weren''t for the Fairchild family, he would still be the high and mighty head of the Wolford family!


    If it were just Harvey, it wouldn''t be a big deal, but the old fox from the Murray family was also present, along with people from the Lozano family and the Zwilling family, all eyeing them like tigers. Kallum only nced at Harvey before focusing on the "battle" ahead. Harvey, on the other hand, red at Calista and Kallum without a care. If he lost today, he would no longer exist in Horington tomorrow. What was there to fear? Kallum wouldn''t spare him anyway!


    Harvey was convinced Kallum was infected, so the question was whether the Fairchild family woulde up with another way to fool everyone.


    The crowd gradually quieted down. Kallum let out a soft hum and spoke his first sentence.


    "I know why you are all here, and I have only one thing to say: The K Virus leak in Horington has nothing to do with the Fairchild family. Those behind this will pay the price today onward."


    The atmosphere turned tense. Though Kallum''s expressionless statement was brief, just thinking about the downfall of the Wolford family from Summerbank made them shiver.


    The once-great Wolford family had fallen apart and be second-rate. They didn''t want to be the next Harvey. Some began to regreting here, but Harvey loudly retorted.


    "Stop with the threats and psychological games! I''ve got nothing left to lose. Even if I die today, I''ll expose your true colors!"


    As he spoke, Harvey pushed his IV drip stand and stepped forward. Kallum squinted his eyes, and Gunner stepped up to block him.


    "Mr. Wolford, please sit down. This is not your tform to speak. If you cause trouble, we''ll have no choice but to remove you." Gunner''s voice was cold, his gaze hostile.


    Harvey was unwilling, but he was no longer the formidable the head of the Wolford family. Many present were far more powerful than him. If he wanted to see Kallum suffer, he had to behave for now. Sitting down was fine. He refused to believe the Fairchild family had any more tricks up their sleeve.


    The prosecutor greeted Kallum with courtesy. He didn''t believe the


    Fairchild family would do such a


    thing. Even if Kallum was infected


    he wouldn''t cause the K Virus leak in Horington. Howard trusted Kallum, seeing him as reliable despite his youth. Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Mr. Kallum, long time no see," Howard Zeifert said, shaking Kallum''s hand with a resigned expression.


    "I am sorry to trouble you today. All we want is just to quell the rumors."


    "I understand," Kallum responded politely. "Some people orchestrated this to target me. I already have some evidence. After the press conference, we can discuss it in detail."


    In fact, Kallum had evidence to


    convict Harvey. However, the


    infected people believed the


    Fairchild family was to me. Even exposing Harvey wouldn''t quell the suspicions. To resolve this


    risk.


    Howard was pleasantly surprised. "Really? That is great! Those who act out of selfishness must be punished. The higher-ups have ordered that the mastermind be severely dealt with." Kallum nodded. "Okay, it is gettingte. Let''s begin."


    Seeing Kallum''s calm demeanor, Howard waved his hand. A person stepped forward with a disease detector.


    Before the blood test, Howard addressed the filming equipment, speaking sternly.


    "Due to the recent spread of rumors in Horington,, Howard Zeifert, have been sent by the Inspection and Supervision Bureau to oversee this matter. have no personal interest in this matter, and all actions will be conducted under public scrutiny. I will not wrongfully use anyone, nor will I let any wrongdoer go unpunished."


    Howard''s words made Harvey nervous, but he believed he was safe. As long as Kallum tested positive for the K Virus, all attention would shift to him, making Harvey the hero and the most innocent victim in this ordeal. Victory or defeat would be decided tonight. Harvey would keep his eyes wide open to expose Kallum''s lies.


    "Let''s get started then."


    Kallum unbuttoned his exquisite cuffs with an icy expression. His violet eyes, filled with a hint of menace, made everyone feel how reluctant he was to go through this.

 Chapter 274 This Is Impossible

    Even so, all eyes were still fixed on him. Howard personally took the disease detector from the assistant prosecutor and used pre-prepared blood samples to publicly test its uracy. "This is infected blood, and this is normal blood." Howard introduced the two bowls of blood in front of him with a serious expression and then used the disease detector to test them. The infected blood made the detector glow red, while the normal blood made it glow green.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    After confirming the detector was working correctly, Howard carefully sterilized it and said to Kallum, "Mr. Kallum, my apologies."


    However, Kallum refused the blood collection needle handed to him. With a flick of his finger, an exquisite, gem-encrusted knife appeared at his fingertips.


    Slowly, he made a small cut on his fair fingertip, and immediately, blood droplets started to emerge. Howard handed him the disease detector, while Ryder offered a bowl of water on the other side.


    "Wait! I object!" Harvey hurriedly stood up. "There''s definitely something wrong with that water! Last time, Kallum used special water to deceive everyone right before their eyes!"


    His adamant words made Kallum raise an eyebrow in displeasure. "Are you saying that if I do not use this water and directly test my blood, you''ll believe the results?"


    He nced disdainfully at the detector in his hand. "So, you want me to touch my own finger with this detector that is just been exposed to the infected blood?"


    "You are scared, aren''t you?" Harvey, not understanding Kallum''s intentions and seeing him hesitate, grew agitated.


    Kallum gave him a mocking look, and Calista stepped forward, drinking the purified water from the bowl in one gulp. Sheughed mockingly, "There, no more water. I hope you will not make more baseless ims when the test resultse out, Mr. Wolford. One should know their ce. Right now, you are not in a position to make too many demands."


    Seeing Calista drink the water, Harvey knew it was safe. He felt increasingly uneasy, unsure of Kallum''s next move.


    Controlled by the bodyguards, he was forced to sit back down, while others cast looks of mild disdain his way. If it weren''t for the formal setting, the Fairchild family might have thrown him out already.


    Kallum did not hesitate further. Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, he slowly brought the detector closer to his bleeding fingertip. At that moment, a dark glint flickered in his eyes.


    Outwardly, his demeanor was as casual as ever, as if this press conference was just a routine formality.


    What color would the detector emit? Given Kallum''s calm demeanor, it must be green.


    As soon as the detector touched Kallum''s blood, it quickly emitted a green light.


    This scene silenced many, especially those causing trouble. They had helped orchestrate this press conference, driven by the belief that Kallum was guilty. Now, if Kallum was proven innocent, who should they me?


    No, Kallum is undoubtedly connected to this! The K Virus outbreak was clearly aimed at him, making us coteral damage in this battle!


    Until the mastermind was caught, the Fairchild family remained their enemy. Lives were at stake, and they were implicated by the Fairchild family.


    "Are you satisfied now?" Kallum''s voice broke the eerie silence.


    "No, this can''t be!" Harvey finally snapped out of his daze. Held down by bodyguards, he could not stand, but his dissatisfied voice echoed through the venue. "I know! The detector must be faulty!"


    His words made Howard frown. He stared at Harvey, "Are you implying I am covering for a suspect?"


    Harvey''s heart skipped a beat under Howard''s displeased gaze, but he could not afford to care. If he could not bring Kallum down, he''d be dead by tomorrow! Fear had no ce now. He could only grit his teeth and shout, "Who knows? Your family has ties with the Fairchild family. Who knows if Kallum bribed you to..."


    Howard''s cold words silenced Harvey. Sweat poured from his forehead as the bodyguards tightened their grip, but his defiant eyes darted between Howard and Kallum, seeking any opportunity. Seeing Harvey''s defiance falter, Aaron Murray, the head of the Murray family suddenlyughed. Surrounded by reporters and the crowd, he appeared calm and vigorous.


    "If you continue spouting nonsense, I''ll have you arrested for nder!"


    "It seems everyone is quite unconvinced..."


    At his words, Calista and Kallum exchanged a subtle nce. Here ites!


    Aaron continued nonchntly, "It is


    understandable for people to be skeptical about malfunctioning devices. And Mr. Kallum is here today to clear his name, isn''t he? So


    BUMS


    what harm in taking an extra step or two?"

 Chapter 275 Not Baseless Suspicions

    "Old Mr. Murray, if you have something to say, just speak your mind!"


    Kallum''s gaze was devoid of respect and carried a hint of provocation. "Besides, who says everyone does not believe me? I''d love to know how many here actually do."


    As soon as Kallum finished speaking, several people voiced their agreement.


    "Of course, we believe in Mr. Kallum!"


    "Mr. Kallum could never be that kind of person!"


    Expressions of loyalty came one after another. Though they had various motives for being there, they didn''t dare act rashly.


    They also knew Howard wouldn''t cover for Kallum; despite the Fairchild family''s good rtionship with the Howard family, they were alsopetitors. Only those victims desperately seeking someone to me would be easily swayed by Harvey''s provocations. Seeing the crowd''sck of cooperation, Aaron scowled. It proved his influence was still no match for a young man in his twenties, even under such circumstances!


    "Young people these days..."


    He shook his head and sneered. "Even if the whole world stands with Mr. Kallum, what about them?"


    Aaron pointed at the families of the dozen or so victims, his face filled with sympathy.


    "Even if their family members weren''t directly harmed by the Fairchild family, they were indirectly affected. Lives are at stake. In this situation, we just want Mr. Kallum to use a different testing method to further dispel doubts. Is that so difficult? Or does Mr. Kallum only trust electronic instruments? If so, it reminds me of some signal interference devices..."


    As the saying goes, "Wisdomes with age." His cunning words made refusal difficult.


    Kallum sneered. "Your words are amusing. Indirectly affected? Are you saying that even if it is not my fault, I am still responsible? Then I do not need to do anything else, just keep taking responsibility!"


    Kallum''s words caused Aaron''s face to twitch. Kallum was still as unyielding and aggressive as ever.


    Aaron pressed further, "Regardless, our suspicions are justified. Instruments can malfunction, but other methods will not. The question is whether Mr. Kallum is willing to cooperate. After all, there are so many reporters watching."


    Seeing Aaron was using public opinion to pressure him, Kallum sneered, "So, you are not satisfied unless you prove I have a problem? Fine, I assume you''ve prepared things like test strips? Bring them out. But let me be clear, this is thest time. I really do not have time to y games."


    The Murray family quickly agreed.


    "Sure, it is thest time! But this time, I''ll send someone personally."


    Kallum looked at Aaron with a hint of pity.


    "If some people like to persist in their folly, then fine. Last time it is."


    Aaron rxed slightly and instructed his grandson, Hendrick, "Go ahead. I am sure Mr. Kallum will not make things difficult for you."


    Feeling uneasy, Howard asked sternly as Hendrick stepped forward. "What does Mr. Hendrick intend to do?"


    ""Don''t be so nervous."


    No longer showing the anger from a few days ago, Hendrick took out test strips, his eyes fixed on Kallum. "Electronic devices can be tampered with, so we''ll use the most primitive method."Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    When Kallum saw that the Murray family indeed chose test strips, his gaze flickered, but he said nothing.


    To prevent doubts about the Murray family''s test strips, Hendrick conducted a public demonstration. The test strips turned red with normal blood but blue with abnormal blood.


    Many infectious diseases could


    make the strips turn blue, making


    them sensitive but inurate. Under


    normal arcumstances, most people wouldn''t use them to test for


    infectious diseases. Yet, the Murray family insisted on using them.


    Kallum looked at the test strips, his expression yful. "If the test strips show I am clean, then?"


    "Then it proves you are truly innocent. Our family will not say another word," Hendrick responded smoothly.


    But if Kallum had a problem, he wouldn''t escape Hendrick''s grasp.


    As their gazes shed, Kallum raised an eyebrow and chuckled.


    "In that case, let''s get on with it. I have a lot to do, so let''s make it quick."


    His attitude remained nonchnt.


    Hendrick gritted his teeth subtly. Like many hoping for Kallum''s downfall, he wavered in the face of Kallum''s confidence. Could Kallum fool even the test strips? No,


    overs


    impossible. Kallum could not control his own blood.


    In a tense atmosphere, a piece of pure white test strip reached Kallum''s hand. Toying with it deliberately, he repeatedly brought it close to his bleeding fingertip without making contact, keeping everyone on edge.


    "Please take this seriously, Mr. Kallum!" Hendrick could not help but exim.


    Kallum chuckled and pressed the strip onto his fingertip wound.


    Under the magnified lens of the camera, every minute action was visible to all. As the strip slowly turned red, many held their breath, inwardly chanting.

 Chapter 276 Did Not Change Color

    "Change color? Come on, change color! Change color!" No matter how much they yearned, the test paper seemed as ordinary as ever, leaving no impact on Kallum. The blood slowly spread across the paper, but in the end, it remained red. The scene served as a harsh p in the face to all those with ulterior motives.


    "This... This can''t be possible!" Harvey had already turned pale. As someone who had always firmly believed that there was something wrong with Kallum, he had never considered the consequences if Kallum was actually innocent.


    Aaron couldn''t maintain his friendly smile any longer, and he shot Harvey a fierce re when no one was looking. No one even knew for certain whether Kallum was actually sick, yet Harvey still stubbornly carried out so many foolish actions. No wonder Harvey is on the verge of bankruptcy! And now, the Murray family is dragged into this too! We received the incorrect information and made a mistake.


    "I told you all! I knew there was no way Kallum was unwell." Someone chuckled, a nearly genuine smile lighting up their face. "I hope some people would stop ndering Mr. Kallum! How could the Fairchild family possibly be rted to the spread of the K Virus in Horington?"


    "But..." A wealthydy with a child stricken by the disease expressed her resentment, "Even if the Fairchild family didn''t cause this, all the victims attended the Fairchilds'' banquet before falling ill. How can we say that the Fairchild family has no connection to this?"


    At that moment, Calista stepped out, her timing impable. "Indeed, our Fairchild family has been researching the K Virus, but it''s primarily in Corleon. The leak and spread of the K Virus has nothing to do with us. However, Harvey was right about one thing. My team is leading the world in K Virus research! If you''re willing, you can entrust all the patients to me."


    Calista nced at Howard. "I believe the country would also support my efforts to save people. I can''t promise I''ll be able to save them, but isn''t there always more hope if they can live a bit longer? Also, it''s pretty clear who must have been the mastermind behind all this." Kallum moved to stand beside Calista, facing the reporters below. His expression was slightly frosty as he finally turned his gaze toward Harvey.


    "In Horington, I wasn''t the only one who had been bitten by Sterling. There was another person, someone who had once been even closer to Sterling, someone who desired Sterling''s blood. I couldn''t think of a second person apart from him who couldmit such an atrocious act. Who do you think it is?" A few pointed remarks from Kallum had all cameras immediately focused on Harvey.


    At that moment, Harvey ceased to struggle. He sat there, feeling weak in his limbs, drenched in cold sweat.


    The gazes from the victims'' families at him were piercingly intense!


    Harvey swallowed hard, seemingly putting up ast-ditch resistance. "I... I didn''t do it, Kallum. Are you trying to make me a scapegoat at this point? Haven''t you ruined me enough?"


    He still found himself gravitating toward the role of a victim.


    Atop the high tform, Kallum appeared like a divine being looking down upon Harvey with utter disdain.


    "Still trying to make excuses?" His voice was calm, yet it gradually


    radiated a deadly intent. "Your subordinate, the former butler of Sterling has confessed. Previously, Sterling had infected several people. It was you who took the


    blood-stained clothes of the infected from him. What were you nning to do with that?"


    Only then did Harvey realize that he hadn''t seen the butler all day!


    "I... I..." Beads of sweat trickled relentlessly down his face. His mouth hung open for what felt like an eternity, yet he couldn''t muster any words of exnation. All eyes were fixed on him, and he felt as if his plump body was being roasted alive!


    "You? You even secretly investigated


    the guests who attended the


    banquet at my house that night. Those who went straight home, you couldn''t touch. However, those who made detours, you targeted them. don''t know how you knew their whereabouts. Maybe someone helped you. However, I must say, you are ruthless toward others. They... They didn''t offend you, did they? Harvey, you are truly rotten to the core, daring to do anything for your own selfish desires." By the time Kallum finished hisst word, Harvey had already been


    apprehended! N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    The IV bag fell to the floor, and after the needle was removed, Harvey''s hand wouldn''t stop bleeding. His face was as pale as a ghost, showing a look of fear for the first time! "No... I didn''t do it! I''ve never done such a thing!"


    No one believed him anymore!


    "Harvey! You heartless man! What did my son ever do to deserve this from you? Give me back my son''s life!" The agitated family members had already rushed forward at the earliest opportunity, showering him with a flurry of punches and kicks!


    At that moment, they weren''t prestigious family members but simply rtives of a wounded patient, consumed by a raging fury. They wished nothing more than for Harvey to drop dead on the spot!


    "Such a person should be sentenced


    to death! He''s utterly despicable,


    disregarding the lives of everyone in


    Horington! This kind of person


    doesn''t deserve to be called b


    The thought that Harvey had done it


    on purpose sent waves of anger cresting among many!


    The type of person who could watch everyone else perish, as long as they themselves were unscathed, was truly repulsive. Even a single nce at them felt contaminating! After Harvey was surrounded, the scene instantly descended into chaos. Many reporters, who were previously focused on interviewing Kallum, shifted their attention to Harvey.

 Chapter 277 Stand Down

    Howard had no choice but to fire a shot into the sky! "Silence! From this moment onward, Harvey will be taken into custody. Everyone, stand down!"


    The officer behind him rushed in and hauled Harvey out. By then, Harvey''s face was scratched beyond recognition by fingernails. Harvey no longer had the overbearing presence he had upon arrival. He clung tightly to the officer''s uniform, his expression still somewhat dazed.


    Why is Kallum unharmed? How could he possibly be unscathed? What terrifying oue will be waiting for me? Watching the rtives of the patients who seemed to wish they could devour him alive, Harvey recoiled slightly, daring not to dwell on the thought any further. At that moment, an unexpected voice suddenly intruded!


    "Kallum was lying!" At that moment, Wayne burst in.


    It was unclear who had lent him a hand, enabling him to bypass multiple obstacles and stand there miraculously.


    Previously, Wayne was a member of the team aiming to conquer the K Virus. However, because he was unwilling to go to Corleon, Calista subsequently dismissed him. He was supposed to be under house arrest, but it would seem he escaped.


    Calista nced at Kallum, who wore a stern expression and was looking off to the right.


    Startled, Ryder quickly said, "I''m going to check on it right away!"


    Then, in a hurried rush, Ryder departed. However, Wayne had already shown up, and by that time, it was toote to investigate.


    Wayne appeared somewhat neurotic, his entire demeanor wavering between excitement and fear. All eyes were focused on him, and he, in turn, was visibly trembling.


    "Kallum is lying! I was originally one of the experts he hired, specifically to help him conquer the K Virus! So, he''s definitely lying!" shouted Wayne.


    All the reporters and guests went abuzz upon hearing that! A considerable number of journalists had surrounded Wayne, with cameras constantly filming him from all angles!


    "What did you say? Who are you? Do you have any proof to back up your ims?" One question after another came at him, but once Wayne was surrounded by people, he seemed to feel a bit safer.


    He stopped trembling, and his voice was no longer as sharp.


    He anxiously watched Kallum on stage, speaking at a rapid pace.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "I was a professor at Colstrax University and also an S-ss expert at Genesis Virus Research Center. Last year, the Fairchild family specially hired me along with other experts to tackle the K Virus. It''s been over a year since then. However, because I refused to risk


    going to Corleon, the Fairchild family put me under house arrest! It''s been more than a year since Ist saw my wife and children..." His voice was filled with emotion, starkly contrasting his own misery with the domineering nature of the Fairchild family!


    "I see!" Countless people had a thought shing through their minds. At that moment, a reporter quickly asked, "However, Mr. Kallum just had a blood test in front of everyone, and there was no issue!"


    With a re of indignation, Wayne dered, "Electronic devices can be manipted. As long as there''s money, there will be technicians willing to y dirty!"


    "Even the test paper showed no issues-"


    "Because..." Wayne suddenly fixed his gaze on Calista. "Because before I left the team, Ms. Stafford on stage was already secretly researching a masking agent. When I left, it wasn''t sessful yet, but now perhaps it i?!


    Everyone''s gaze once again focused on Calista, but Calista and Kallum were holding hands, their fingers intertwined. Facing the sudden


    onset of a massive storm, their


    expressions remained remarkably


    caten, so calm that it was almost


    eerie!


    In the midst of themotion, most people were asking the same question. "What is a masking agent?"


    Under the persistent questioning of


    everyone, Wayne managed to


    respond as calmly as possible. "It''smon knowledge that those infected with the K Virus have an


    acidic body. Hence, the blood gaset


    test could detect anomalies. However, Calista intended to develop a masking agent that, once ingested, would temporarily bnce the body''s pH levels. Did this mean the patient was cured? Absolutely not! She was merely inventing this to allow Kallum to slip through unnoticed, right under everyone''s noses. The truth is Kallum''s blood is still contagious!"


    Many guests almost instinctually began to back away after hearing that! Arge vacuum area appeared under the stage, and looking at Kallum''s still bleeding hand, some sensitive individuals felt their bodies start to itch! "That''s so scary! Is what this person saying really true?"


    "What should I do? I''m feeling a bit unwell. I think I should leave first!"


    "So, are you saying that Mr. Kallum was truly infected with the K Virus and survived for over a year? Could this mean my child could also continue to live..."


    "So, was the K Virus leak in Horington still due to the Fairchild family?"


    Harvey received a confidence boost from Wayne''s words and suddenly burst into heartyughter!


    "You all understand who the real puppet master is now, don''t you? I''m innocent! I didn''t release the K Virus! Kallum is trying to frame me with false evidence! I''m innocent!" As he spoke, he was visibly struggling. The members of the Murray family also disyed an attitude of regret, shaking their heads as they spoke. "Who would have thought that even the pH level of blood could be altered? Calista is truly a genius..."


    Even Howard took two steps back, his gaze fixed on Kallum. "Is it you?"


    At that moment, all Kallum could do was shake his head. "It wasn''t me."

 Chapter 278 Pin The Blame

    In an effort to prevent spreading his ailment to others, Kallum seldom left his house. When he did venture out, he was closely guarded to ensure his safety and was injected with suppressants as if they were free of charge.


    Moreover, Harvey''s butler had indeed confessed. Those involved in Harvey''s activities were all under Kallum''s control. Unfortunately, even if he were to hand those people over, others would likely assume it was the Fairchild family coercing confessions, using their


    authority to suppress others.


    "It was you!" At that moment, it seemed as if Harvey had perceived something and desperately rushed onto the stage!


    "It was you! Not only did you ruin me, but you also tried to pin all the me on me! You were secretly researching the K Virus to save your own life, and when it identally got leaked, you refused to admit it. Instead, you put all the me on me! Kallum, you''re nothing but a devil! A devil who doesn''t care about the lives of all the people in Horington!" Without a hint of shame, Harvey pinned everything on Kallum!


    At that moment, the rtives of those infected rushed over, their eyes zing red, their faces contorted with rage! Their anguish was palpable, coupled with a fury that stemmed from being fooled by vile individuals!


    "You still won''t admit it at this point? My child is only thirty, and you''ve ruined him! I don''t care! If you can keep living, why should my child be quarantined? You must save him!" one parent shouted.


    People were relentless toward Calista. "How could you support such a viin? Kallum should have been quarantined long ago! Yet, you''ve been covering for him all this while. Now look at the mess. The virus has leaked, and it could potentially wipe out Horington! Yet, you''re still defending him!"


    "You must save our child! Since Kallum is still alive, our child shouldn''t have to die!"


    The entire stage seemed to have morphed into a massive vortex, throwing an unexpected twist for the first time. Kallum''s mind was racing, yet every countermeasure he could think of was wed, and every potential oue was terrifying!


    However, he instinctively raised his hand, and in an instant, countless bodyguards emerged from the venue. At first, Howard thought they were sent by the Fairchild family to apprehend someone! As a result, he and the officers behind him were all on high alert! However, to Howard''s surprise, those people were merely there to maintain order. Under the forceful suppression, the previously chaotic situation was immediately subdued. However, one couldn''t silence those people.


    Those angry usations, the voices filled with either sorrow or mockery and the various calcting cold gazes made Kallum feel ufortable. Throughout his life, no one had ever dared to speak to him in such a tone or look at him with such eyes. He had never imagined that one day, he would be pushed to such extremes.


    However, he couldn''t let things continue to unfold as they were.


    As the head of the household, he couldn''t back down at that moment. Even if he had to confront the situation, even if it meant being quarantined, he was determined first to dismiss the baseless usations against him!


    He could fall, but the Fairchild family must not bear the stain of disgrace!


    Just as Kallum was about to speak, Calista suddenly tugged at him. "What are you nning to do?"


    When Kallum turned around, his


    gaze shifted from sharp to


    sorrowful. Even if he were to die, he


    didn''t intend to burden Calista.


    However he had inadvertently entangled her in his troubles, and if she wasn''t careful, she might end up being doomed eternally, just like him. "I''m sorry. I''ll tell others that it was me who used your father as leverage to make you work for me. I won''t let anything happen to you."


    Calista was taken aback. She hadn''t expected that, under the scrutiny of thousands, the first thing on Kallum''s mind would actually be to protect her.


    She quickly asked, "And what about you? Are you nning to expose Harvey''s crimes to the public, then shoulder the concealed ones all by yourself? Do you want to be quarantined?"


    Deprived of Calista''s treatment, Kallum would soon meet his end in quarantine.


    A flicker of confusion passed through his violet eyes, then instantly transformed into resolve! "If the situation is beyond repair, I have no choice but to do this!"


    Calista gripped his hand tightly. "If


    that happens, the Fairchild family''s reputation will be utterly destroyed! You... You''lfdie, and all our efforts


    will be wasted! In such a scenario etContent ? N?velDrama.Org.


    your rtives will surely unite to attack. Do you think the already exhausted Ss can endure all of this? Even if you bear all the consequences, have you considered your parents'' feelings? They are desperate to cure you! Have you thought about them?"


    Kallum fell silent. On one hand, he was faced with responsibility; on the other, his kin. However, the most important thing to him was the woman before him!


    If he died, even if he imed that he had coerced Calista into everything, those narrow-minded enemies of hers would still not let her off the hook.


    He couldn''t figure out what Calista could possibly do while he was stuck in the quarantine area.


    "That''s why, before you take that final step, could you trust me just once?" Calista''s eyes sparkled with an unusual light with a mysterious smile. "Don''t forget, I still have an ace up my sleeve." Their conversations were held in secret. Meanwhile, those in the audience who wished ill fortune upon the Fairchild family had no intention of giving them time to strategize.


    Aaron expressed his displeasure.


    "What on earth is the Fairchild family trying to do? Trapping us all here? If not, I''m leaving. I''m not as young as I used to be, and my resistance is not what it used to be. I certainly don''t want to catch the K Virus and bring it home!"

 Chapter 279 Fueled Public Anger

    Aaron''s harsh words only fueled the public''s anger! The families of the infected patients were even less likely to let Kallum off the hook!


    "What more do you intend to do at this point? Hasn''t your family caused us enough harm already? Do you wish to ruin even more lives?" one member of the crowd shouted. Confronted with the crowd''s usations and fury, just before emotions erupted once again, Calista suddenly stepped forward. Determinedly, she shielded Kallum behind her.


    "Isn''t it a bit hasty to condemn the Fairchild family based solely on Wayne''s ount?" Her cool voice momentarily silenced the crowd.


    However, Wayne quickly recovered and sharply retorted!


    "How dare you still try to cover for him! Kallum is definitely infected with the K Virus! Unless you''ve found a cure for the K Virus, no matter what you say, he can''t escape the fate of being quarantined!"


    Calista chuckled coldly. "Kallum gathered all those experts merely because I showed interest in the K Virus, and he wanted to help me out. However, you imed those people were gathered because he was infected. Where''s your proof?" Wayne''s face turned an unsightly shade. It was already a miracle that he had managed to escape, so he had no evidence to prove that Kallum was sick. He didn''t even have any contracts!


    Seeing that Wayne remained silent, Calista calmly turned the tables. "In other words, you know nothing, yet you''re here recklessly ndering people?"


    The atmosphere gradually calmed down. At that moment, Aaron grumbled discontentedly, "Just like this person can''t prove what he''s saying, what proof do you have for your words?"


    "Exactly!" Harvey eximed, panting heavily. "The easiest way to find out if there''s an issue is by taking him to the hospital! All I hear is you talking, but what evidence do you have to prove that Kallum is okay?" Calista slightly raised an eyebrow. "Of course I have."


    At that moment, everyone, including Kallum, had their eyes on Calista.


    They wondered what evidence was there to prove in front of everyone that Kallum was not infected.


    A thought vaguely formed in Kallum''s mind, which was then followed by a look of fear as he gazed at Calista. That was probably the first time in his life that he had felt such terror. Could she be nning to... "Calli-" "Trust me." Before Kallum could utter a word, Calista interrupted him. At that moment, a flurry of thoughts rushed through Kallum''s mind, but ultimately, he was captivated by the unwavering gaze of Calista.


    Her eyes shone like the stars, yet the dark part was even cker than the abyss.


    She reached out and grasped Kallum''s hand, which was still dripping with blood.


    At that moment, everyone instinctively held their breath, their focus intensifying. The look in Wayne''s and the others'' eyes gradually turned into sheer disbelief!


    Under the intense gaze of the crowd, Calista exhaled. She looked at Kallum, surprised that she had finally taken that step.


    Instinctively, Kallum attempted to withdraw his hand, but Calista held on tightly! Her grip was strong and unwavering!


    At that moment, Kallum abruptly understood Calista''s intentions. She''s really going through with that! I would rather be the one to suffer!


    "No!" Suddenly, Kallum pulled back his hand, deciding he was going to reveal the truth!


    However, just as his fingertips were about to slip away from Calista''s palm, Calista suddenly stood on her tiptoes and kissed him!


    The entire venue fell into immediate silence. The crowd was fixated on the stage, in disbelief that the couple chose to share a kiss at that moment.


    Even though it shouldn''t have been, the beauty that seemingly could transcend life and death shattered all doubts!


    The skeptics thought, Could it be


    that Calista is trying to prove that Kallum is all right by doing that? Ha, if that is the extent of her efforts, it is simply impossible to dispel those doubts!


    Kallum, however, wanted to dodge. For the first time, he resisted Calista''s kiss, rapidly pushing her away. Calista stepped back half a step, but before he could speak, she quickly interjected. "You once asked me if I would be willing to die with you."


    At that moment, Kallum felt as though his heart had been struck by a massive boulder!


    Calista narrowed her eyes at him, a sudden boldness in her demeanor as she chuckled lightly and asked, "If anything happens to me, would you let me down?"


    If there was someone willing to apany you to death, would you let them down?


    After she finished speaking, she lowered her head without any hesitation, taking Kallum''s still-bleeding finger into her mouth!


    She actually dared to touch Kallum''s blood!Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Anyone with a bit ofmon sense knew that even without a cut in the mouth, the blood infected with the K Virus could seep through the oral cavity, leading to infection! Hence, if Calista were to take Kallum''s finger into her mouth, the likelihood of her contracting a disease would be a staggering hundred percent!


    ¡°No!" Kallum jerked his hand back as


    if he''d been electrocuted. His


    movement was so abrupt that a smear of blood stained Calista''s


    lower tip. In the magnification of the


    camera, it was a startling sight.


    Suddenly, Calista let out a wickedugh. Regardless of Kallum''s mood, she turned to gaze at the hundreds, if not thousands, of people below. With a smile, she revealed her blood-stained teeth.


    In a tantalizing manner, she slowly swept the trace of blood she detected on her lips into her mouth with the tip of her tongue!


    She really did consume Kallum''s blood!


    Kallum took a step back. From the moment Calista took his fingers into her mouth, there was no turning back from that situation!

 Chapter 280 Truth Exposed

    Kallum couldn''t believe Calista was willing to do that for him.


    "It''smon knowledge that once infected with the K Virus, one would suffer from a persistent fever. This fact raised suspicion because that night, everyone who visited the Fairchild family returned home in good health. It was only after they left that symptoms of infection began to appear," said Calista. At that point, Harvey could no longer utter a word. It was Wayne who broke the silence in a dry tone. "Perhaps... Perhaps... They didn''t contract it directly. It could be a chronic infection, so-"


    Calista waved her hand as though epting that ludicrous statement. "When I drank Kallum''s blood earlier, would you consider that direct contact or a chronic infection?" Sheughed provocatively.


    Under her somewhat teasing gaze, Wayne gradually fell silent. Actions spoke louder than words! If Calista could drink Kallum''s blood without any consequences, then that about proved whether Kallum was infected or not. After all, the most terrifying aspect of the K Virus was its infectiousness.


    Seeing everyone fall silent, Calista finally dropped her disdain, her eyes sharpening! Wherever her gazended, everyone could only retreat!


    "Is there anyone else who still doubts the Fairchild family? Or will you all say that I''ve already developed an antidote? Well, I''m ttered by your high regard for me. Rest assured, when I truly develop an antidote for the virus, I will announce it to everyone!" She asked with a biting sarcasm, "So, what''s it going to be? Are you nning to leave or stick around to see if I''lle down with a feverter?" She even made a dark joke. "Maybe I''m just putting on a brave face right now."


    Many flushed with embarrassment. Even those who tried to hide it couldn''t mask their reactions as well as she did.


    They had seen the video about the K Virus before. The fever experienced by those infected was a symbol of the virus invading their bodies. If there was no fever, then they weren''t infected.


    The principle of the K Virus antibody was at y there. If someone were mildly infected and received the antibody injection in time, they would be considered part of the fortunate one percent should their fever subside post-injection. If not, it indicated that the antibody injection had failed.


    Thus, a fever was inevitable, and so it was the most straightforward proof.


    The gazes of some bigwigs subtly lingered on Calista, seemingly filled with a hint of anticipation.


    For a moment, everyone fell silent.


    With a light chuckle, Calista turned to Howard, who was already stunned on one side and spoke. "Do you think your subordinates might have brought a thermometer in their medical kit?" Howard remained silent. It was the military doctor beside him who reacted, handing her the thermometer. "Yes! There is!"


    When he handed it to her, he did so with his head bowed and both hands offering it forward. That invisible show of respect could only mean one thing. At that moment, her vibe was overbearing! With a slight arch of her brow, Calista nonchntly took her temperature using an ear thermometer amidst the gaze of the crowd. Without even a nce, she handed it over to Howard. Only then did Howard take it as if he was waking from a dream. He nced at the disyed number, his expressionplicated. "Ny-eight degrees Fahrenheit. She doesn''t have a fever." With that one sentence, the unspoken hopes harbored in everyone''s hearts were virtually shattered!


    She didn''t have a fever!


    Howard let out a long sigh and nced at her, then at Kallum before he finally spoke.


    "It seems what happened today was just a misunderstanding. I will report the situation. As for Harvey, I need him to be handed over to me eventually. Otherwise, I won''t be able to exin it to my superiors." After he finished speaking, he promptly left with his group.


    He knew that Harvey would definitely be asked to stay behind so Kallum had a chance to vent his frustrations.


    As soon as Howard left, the atmosphere in the entire hall became incredibly oppressive, almost as if a storm was brewing beneath the surface. Everyone could feel a sense of restlessness in the air!


    Aaron was grimacing. There was


    nothing more agonizing than witnessing imminent sess only to face immediate failure. Kallum was not ill at all! Yet, he had been led astray time and time again, acting irrationally. That was indeed the biggest blunder of his life!


    Only then did Kallum snap back! He swiftly took the bandage, wrapped up the wound, then moved to Calista''s side, holding her tightly in his arms!


    At that moment, he was consumed by anxiety, yet he couldn''t ask a single question. Deep down in his heart, there lingered a sliver of hopeful optimism.


    Thus, his handsome face was taut, and after a long while, he spoke in anger. "Apprehend Harvey!"


    At that moment, Harvey waspletely silenced, unable to utter a single word as his mouth was covered.


    No one dared to question Kallum''s actions. After all, wouldn''t anyone''s mood be soured if they were repeatedly ndered?


    Wayne didn''t escape, either. He was apprehended and taken away directly, no questions asked about his whereabouts or how he would be dealt with. It had be a private matter of the Fairchild family. "Gunner," Kallum ordered coldly. "I''m leaving this in your hands. These people are truly getting on my nerves!"


    After he finished speaking, he immediately intended to leave with Calista.


    The people present were suddenly taken aback! They didn''t expect Kallum to say they were getting on his nerves, making them wonderi he resented them because of the incident. If that was the case, it was a severe loss to them indeed!


    Upon seeing the situation, many people followed Kallum and shouted out loud.


    "Mr. Kallum! I do trust you! I''ve always trusted you! Please don''t be angry!"


    "Mr. Kallum, I''ve always been defending you. I told others that there''s no way you''re sick!"N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 281 On The Blacklist

    However, they were all stopped by Quintus. Kallum was allowed to leave, but they weren''t.


    "Sorry, Mr. Kallum isn''t in the best of moods right now. Whatever it is, discuss itter!" said Quintus.


    The people who were stopped could only watch helplessly as Kallum walked away with Calista. Suddenly, they realized that those who chose not to join the spectacle were truly wise. Many people who were present didn''t have much to do with the Fairchild family, to begin with, but after what happened, they were surely on the Fairchild family''s cklist!


    Evidence of Harvey''s crime, including recorded phone calls and testimonies, had been presented by Gunner. They hadn''t been brought up before because whenever the Fairchild family presented anything while Kallum was under suspicion, others could im it was false evidence. However, at that moment, the evidence was more than enough to sentence Harvey to death!


    Harvey slumped to the ground, his eyes filled with despair. He knew there was no longer any chance for him to turn things around.


    "Calista! You... You..." Inside the car, Kallum watched Calista, his hand tightly clenching then releasing. A thinyer of cold sweat coated his forehead, yet he found himself unable to utter the question that lingered on his lips!


    Seeing Kallum look at her as if she were a fragile doll, Calista chuckled lightly, nodding in self-deprecation. "That''s right, I''ve been infected too. Now, we''re truly entwined in a way we can''t untangle."


    Kallum''s eyes widened in disbelief! His voice was tense, his eyes filled with sheer panic! "Calista! I''m not joking!"


    He had always harbored a glimmer of hope, thinking perhaps Calista had taken some kind of immunity-boosting medicine. Why else would Calista not have a fever still?


    To everyone''s surprise, Calista also put on a serious facade and said, "I''m not joking either. I''m truly infected."


    "Callie!" Kallum was on the verge of madness! He looked at her in defeat, his hands pressing on her shoulders, his gaze almost pleading. His purple eyes flickered incessantly. "You''re okay, aren''t you? Otherwise, you would''ve had a fever! You''re okay, aren''t you?" With a smile, Calista shook her head, and then, for the first time, she voluntarily snuggled into Kallum''s arms, whispering softly.


    "Did I ever tell you?" She delicately yawned, her voice dropping even lower. "My body is rather unique. Many harmful substances react slower in my system than in an average person''s... The K Virus, it''s the same..."


    After she finished speaking, she fell straight into a deep sleep. Upon touching her body, Kallum discovered she was running a fever!


    At that moment, he was engulfed by an enormous fear! For the first time, Kallum felt as helpless as a child. His usually sharp mind was as nk as a crashedputer, leaving him with no choice but to instinctively hold Calista tightly. After a moment of losing hisposure, he hastily lowered the partition and yelled at the driver to get home as fast as possible! Yes, go home! Whether it''s Old Mr. Yancey or anyone else, they need to help her! She must be saved!


    At that point, the members of the Fairchild family had been watching the livestream and were fully prepared. When Kallum rushed in, carrying Calista in a hurried manner, someone wanted to meet them with a stretcher. However, Kallum had already swept her up like a gust of wind, making his way to the Fairchild family''s smallboratory. "Save her! She must be saved!"


    On their journey, Kallum had at least remembered to administer an antibody injection to Calista. However, it proved futile. Calista did not be one of those rare fortunate ones. Instead, her fever worsened!


    Upon checking her temperature, he discovered it had reached a staggeringly high degree! Under normal circumstances, such a high fever would leave a person permanently disabled! It was understandable why Kallum was so frantic. Shaun looked at him with distress. "Mr. Kallum..."


    "I need you to save her!" For the first


    time, Kallumid his hands on


    Shaun, grabbing hold of thetter''s clothes. It was then that Shaun realized that Kallum, who had always been as noble as a crown prince, had bloodshot eyes, wild like a cornered beast! There was no doubt in his mind that if he dared to say no at that moment, Kallum would surely tear him to shreds! Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Shaun opened his mouth, but in the end, he murmured, "All right... I''ll do my best!" Even if the chances are incredibly slim...


    Following that, all Kallum could do was helplessly watch as a group of people surrounded Calista. The moment he lost sight of her, Kallum would feel a sense of panic! However, he was afraid to get closer for fear of disturbing their rescue efforts.


    The gut-wrenching feeling had Kallum pacing blindly around the hospital bed for hours on end. He couldn''t think of anything else. His only concern was her wellbeing.


    At that moment, Kallum''s thoughts were not of himself. Instead, he feared for Calista''s life. If Calista were to die, there would be no one to save him, and he, too, would meet his end. However, that thought never crossed his mind! His only concern was about what he would do if she were to die.


    Frankly, Kallum had never considered that oue. His immediate reaction was that if Calista were to die, he wouldn''t want to continue living either!


    That very real thought kept bombarding his mind, over and over, before it pulled him into an abyss so deep he couldn''t see the bottom.


    Shaun did have some tricks up his sleeve. After all, they were at the global forefront of researching the K Virus. However, even after injecting the modified antibodies, nothing happened. Although, at least Calista was finally relieved of her fever, unlike others who would suffer recurring fever for three days.


    Still, Calista had been infected, which was a blow to the entire Fairchild family.


    For Ss, Calista''s actions at the press conference were something he was deeply grateful for. If it hadn''t been for her stepping in at thest minute to turn the tide, he couldn''t even imagine what kind of turmoil his family would be in now.

 Chapter 282 Brought No Joy

    Wanda passed out straight away. When she came to, she repeatedly apologized to Calista''s mother, crying so hard that she was gasping for breath. There was also a very real and incredibly heavy issue weighing on everyone''s hearts.


    Once Calista fell ill, could she prolong her own life? If not, what would happen to Kallum? Would all their efforts over the past year be in vain?


    A series of problems had plunged the Fairchild family into a deep slump. Even when Harvey was sentenced to death, it didn''t bring the slightest bit of joy to the Fairchild family.


    A dayter, Calista finally woke up.


    Feeling the familiar soreness in her body, she knew that despite having injected the antibodies, she still hadn''t managed to escape. She was still infected.


    Indeed, the lucky ones were always in the minority.


    "Callie?" A deep, husky male voice rang out. Calista turned to see the extremely haggard face of Kallum. Despite having only been awake for a little over a day, the news of Calista''s illness weighed on Kallum''s heart like a mountain, leaving him feeling breathless. Consequently, he had visibly lost weight at an rming rate, and his eyes were filled with bloodshot veins.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    He hurriedly gripped Calista''s hand, cautiously and hoarsely asking, "What... How are you feeling?"


    In reality, asking that was utterly redundant. The true torment of the K Virus was its ability to make one feel absolutely miserable!


    He couldn''t bear to think of the pain Calista must be enduring because the thought would make him wish he had died a year ago! I should have been dead long ago instead of living for so long and causing Calista harm!


    Calista shook her head. The pain at the start wasn''t too much for her to bear. Considering Kallum''s feelings, she didn''t beat around the bush and told him the truth straightaway. "Don''t worry. I won''t die that easily."


    Recalling her previous life, she had employed numerous strategies to prolong her own lifespan. Hence, the struggle to survive was rtively familiar territory for her. At least she wouldn''t be as lost and helpless as she was in her previous life.


    Calista closed his eyes briefly and spoke in aposed manner. "I''m going to need a lot of traditional medicinal ingredients next. Don''t worry. Despite my current condition, I can still prolong your life. Neither of us will "


    Before she could even finish her sentence, Kallum had tightly wrapped her in his arms. His grip was so strong as if it was a desperate embrace before death!


    "How could you..." His voice was husky, the tone filled with disbelief! "How could you say so nonchntly that you won''t die? Calista, why would you do such a thing?"


    Before Calista could utter a word, she was abruptly pulled into Kallum''s embrace. What followed was the rapid beating of his heart and a subtle tremor running through his body.


    "How could you do such a thing without my permission?" His tone was akin to that of a child who had fallen out of favor or a climber teetering on the edge of a cliff. Thus, he clung to her as if she were his lifeline! Calista had never seen him lose hisposure like that before.


    "I won''t be in any trouble." Her tone was eerily calm.


    In her previous life, it took her a month to realize that her body was different from others after she lived over a month post-infection.


    To survive, all she needed was to


    find the right approach. She could live for a long time, albeit feeling unwell allover, just like an ordinary patient, However, no matter how painful it was, it could never be worse than being a human test subject.


    Her words left Kallum utterly breathless! He simply couldn''t fathom how Calista could nonchntly plunge into the abyss. He had no idea that her trump card was to leverage her unique physical condition and to drink his blood, helping him shake off his troubles!


    He wouldn''t have thought about it much if someone else didn''t know, but Calista knew all too well the consequences ofing into contact with his blood. She would experience great pain, and there was a high chance she might even die! Yet, she still chose to do so without hesitation and as if it was the most natural thing to do.


    Kallum couldn''t understand why she sacrificed herself for him and was nearly driven mad by it.


    His mind was filled with a jumble of thoughts. Apart from his own parents, he had never imagined someone would go to such lengths for him.


    At that moment, he understood why Calista refused to speak up before. If he had known earlier, he would have never taken Calista to the event in the first ce!


    Sensing the turmoil, confusion, and pain in Kallum, Calista patted his back, somewhat puzzled as to why he was so distressed.


    When she drank his blood, her sole intention was to conclusively resolve the virus crisis in Horington and to deal with her adversary, Harvey.


    Moreover, due to theck of suitable human test subjects, her research on the K Virus had once again hit a roadblock. That inevitably sparked her idea to test the drug on herself.


    Furthermore, she had leveraged the power of the Fairchild family to crush her enemies ruthlessly. Thus, reciprocating the Fairchild family''s favor didn''t seem like such a big deal to her. One could only say that her way of thinking was unlike that of most people.


    Calista slightly furrowed her brows, seemingly asking in a low, puzzled voice, "Didn''t you once ask me if I was willing to die with you?" I showed my willingness, yet Kallum didn''t seem to express any joy. Why? Kallum''s body visibly shuddered! Following that, Calista unexpectedly felt warm droplets falling onto her neck, causing her to stiffen up instantly!

 Chapter 283 Kallum Cried

    Kallum closed his eyes, uttering in a hoarse voice, "If I had known you would be so foolish, I would''ve definitely told you that all I wanted was for you to live well! I''m sorry." His voice gradually became indistinct to Calista as if muffled by the warm tear that trickled down her cheek. It left her mind nk, and she was almost in disbelief! Kallum... cried? Because of me? Calista furrowed her brows abruptly, unexpectedly feeling a hint of fear and unease.


    From her perspective, Kallum should have treated her action with an attitude of equivalent exchange rather than experiencing pain, regret, and overwhelming emotion.


    Also, Calista didn''t expect to be ufortable with his tears. At such a moment, she couldn''t muster even a shred of empathy for Kallum''s feelings.


    She felt numb as if she were an outsider. Had I truly done something so touching, something so remarkable? Based on Kallum''s behavior, that seems to be the case, but I don''t feel it.


    That thought was profoundly terrifying to her upon reflection. In sudden agony, Calista closed her eyes. "I... I''m not feeling well. I need to rest for "


    Before she could finish her sentence, Kallum anxiously let go of her! "Where are you feeling unwell? Wait a moment, I''ll call for Old Mr. Yancey!"


    Calista quickly grabbed him. "It''s okay. Can... Can you leave me alone for a bit?"


    She had a look of longing in her eyes, which tugged at Kallum''s heart. His flustered actions and panicked gaze revealed that if Calista asked him to die for her at that moment, he wouldn''t hesitate at all. "I... I''ll just be at the door."


    His demeanor wasplex as he treated her with the delicacy one would show a porcin doll. He instructed her with utmost seriousness, "Promise me you''ll call me if anything happens, okay?"


    Kallum thought that Calista wanted to be alone because she didn''t want him to see her vulnerable side. She was so strong-willed that all he could do was agree.


    Once Kallum reluctantly departed, Calista slowly retracted her yearning gaze. She had previously sensed some emotional deficiency within herself, but she hadn''t expected that deficiency would diverge so greatly from what was considered normal. She hastily pulled out her phone and then opened a video that was filled with fake horror elements.


    It was a live dissection of a human by cannibals.


    Though the scene was a fabrication, its realistic imagery was so convincing that it would induce fear, nausea, and general difort in many who watched it. However, Calista didn''t feel anything.


    The vibrant red color of blood was akin to ketchup, evoking in her a sense of tangy sweetness. The only thing absent was fear or difort!


    Calista then realized that since her reincarnation, she had not once chosen to watch television, nor had she seen a single movie. She hadn''t even browsed any shopping sites, forums, or social media tforms. It was as if shecked any desire for things that could stir her senses!


    Calista buried her face in her hands,


    staring at the bedsheet in


    puzzlement as she asked, "What''s going on with me?" Perhaps I should have been afraid at that moment, but I also feel such worry is


    ????


    unwarranted. What did it matter if something was missing? I don''t feel any difort or unease. Could it


    be that the absence of thould it


    emotions is actually a blessing in disguise? Well, dwelling on it now served no purpose. What I need to do in the present is to conquer the K Virus! If I let it drag on, my suffering will only increase, and that is noughing matter.


    A week swiftly passed, and the virus storm that had swept through Horington gradually subsided as all those infected were sessfully quarantined.


    Harvey had been sentenced to death, and Wayne received the punishment he deserved. Those who had inadvertently fallen ill took the medicine that Calista had provided, managing to extend their lives by a month or two. However, all those were merely treating the symptoms, not the root cause!


    In order for those people to survive,


    she had to conquer the virus in an extremely short amount of time. Hence, Calista requested the Fairchild family to step in, securing their special privilege of treating patients in the quarantine zone. She also recalled the experts from Corleon, and began her research on the K Virus openly and aboveboard.


    Many people outside were keeping a close eye on the actions of the Fairchild family. Under that external and internal pressure, the Fairchild family was plunged into unprecedented busyness!


    As Calista was seized by a violent coughing fit, she reached out to halt Kallum froming any closer. The others watched her with a hint of worry, but their eyes also held a subtle admiration.


    "Are you okay?" Bowen was the first to step forward and ask.


    At that point, everyone present except Kallum and Calista had donned protective suits, which made their voices sound somewhat muffled.


    "I''m fine." Due to the violent bout of coughing, Calista''s pale face was tinged with a hint of color. Once she felt slightly better, she began to describe her experience, word by word. "My reaction to this medicine is quite strong. The pain intensifies, and it''s apanied by nausea! A feeling of dizziness..."Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    As Calista spoke, someone was taking notes beside her. It was clear what they were doing. They were using Calista to test the properties of the drugs as a human test subject!


    Calista never anticipated that she


    would eventually still reach that point. However,pared to her previous life''s reluctance and fear of the unknown, she was much moreposed in her new life. That was because she had everything under her control. She didn''t have to worry about being exploited to death, and she could even trade the hardships she was enduring at that moment for glory in the future.

 Chapter 284 Dangerous Toy

    In simple terms, even the terrifying K Virus was like a dangerous toy in Calista''s hands at that moment. She had it all under control because she knew she could definitely seed, and that was why she was always frighteningly calm.


    However, Kallum was not asposed.


    He was on the verge of losing his temper! "Does it have to be like this? Must it absolutely be her?"


    He didn''t understand why Calista could be a test subject and not him. Every time he saw Calista in pain, he found himself teetering on the edge of madness! If he could, he would have dly taken Calista''s ce!


    Shaun pulled Kallum aside to prevent thetter from interfering with the ongoing process. The recent research was making rapid progress, a situation too good to be disrupted. "Mr. Kallum, it''s not that we don''t want to. It''s just that we truly can''t. Ms. Stafford''s physical condition is not like that of an ordinary person, to put it simply-"


    Lowering his voice, Shaun spoke to Kallum. "To put it simply, Ms. Stafford is a special infected. She''s a dormant carrier who doesn''t transmit the disease to others. Moreover, her physical vitality is ten times that of an average person, so she won''t die as easily as a normal person would after an infection... However, you''re different."


    Suddenly, Kallum fell silent, finding the situation somewhat amusing.


    He was different, and his survival hinged on Calista''s thrice-weekly life-sustaining acupuncture. Thus, he had no right to risk his already precarious health by testing drugs. One misstep and he would only be causing trouble for Calista.


    After facing the harsh reality, Kallum felt a profound sense of helplessness!


    He couldn''t test the medicine himself. All he could do was to be there with Calista while she was the one testing it. It was akin to self-torture, watching her in difort, which only amplified his own pain. Yet, he couldn''t bring himself to stop that behavior. No matter how much time passed, he still couldn''t get used to it.


    A monthter, Kallum appeared even more haggard than Calista. He had lost about ten kilograms, his eyes perpetually bloodshot because he hadn''t had a decent night''s sleep.


    Often, in the middle of the night, Calista noticed Kallum waking up abruptly and staying awake for the rest of the night. Obviously, she couldn''t let that continue.


    Even though she was the one testing the medicine, the mental strain it brought to Kallum was overwhelming! That was extremely detrimental to his treatment, so Calista decided to pause the medication trials for a day to have a talk with Kallum. "Finished with your meeting?" Calista asked with a smile, seeing Kallum put down hisptop.


    Kallum was taken aback. "Why are you here? Come, sit!"


    During that period, Calista spent most of her time in theboratory, except for the nights. Thus, it was quite a rarity for Kallum to see her in her room during the day. He had nned to visit her after his meeting.


    "The experiment also required a gradual and orderly approach. By now, the data they''ve gathered is nearing saturation, so they don''t need me for the day." Calista''s words had eased Kallum''s tension.


    However, when he thought about how the experiment would continue the next day, his eyes dimmed slightly. A wild thought crossed his mind that perhaps he should resort to unconventional means to find another live test subject.


    However, considering that Sterling had been killed by Calista, it was clear that Calista would not resort to using others as human test subjects.


    "Take a good rest today." A thought struck Kallum, prompting him to set down hisptop quickly. He then prepared to assist Calista to the bed. Calista couldn''t help but chuckle, looking at him helplessly. "I''m really not incapacitated. You don''t need to be so nervous..."


    Kallum had fallen silent once again. Lately, he had been unusually quiet. His deep violet eyes had lost their, usual sparkle and vitality. Calista felt that perhaps he would feel better if


    she yelled at him or reprimetter if


    him.


    However, she didn''t. Instead, she simply took Kallum''s hand and led him to sit on a couch off to the side.


    As Kallum walked, his joints had already be incredibly stiff. Meanwhile, Calista had just finished vomiting, her face pale and her steps unsteady. Seeing him like that, Calista couldn''t help butugh.


    Kallum looked at her, seemingly puzzled as to how she could still manage to chuckle at a time like that.


    Calista gestured toward him and then at herself. "Do you think we seem like brothers in distress?"


    Tat metaphor was truly apt. Kallum smiled, wanting tough, but some thought held him back. He didn''t wish for Calista to suffer alongside him at all.


    "Don''t be like this..." Calista reached out with both hands to lift the corners of his mouth. "You really don''t need to be so upset because I don''t feel any pain!"


    "How could it not hurt?" Her


    statement seemed to poke right at Kallum''s wound, causing him toThis content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    react sensitively at once! He had et


    endured the pain brought about by the KVirus, day in and day ou so he knew her suffering, too. How could she say that?


    "Calm down. Don''t you think I seem a bit happier now than before?" Calista raised an eyebrow and questioned.


    Naturally, Kallum noticed it, but he assumed Calista was merely putting on an act to alleviate his guilt. Who could possibly be happy after being diagnosed with a terminal illness? The thought was simply ludicrous to him!


    I hurt her! If I had died sooner, or if


    my people had synthesized the antidote faster, she wouldn''t have had to suffer this way! Under the weight of stress and self-me, Kallum,, who never used to have nightmares, was recently gued by them. The agonized expression on Calista''s face after she took the medicine during the day yould rey over and over in his dreams at night. Several times, he woke up from those nightmares and had to check Calista''s breathing to ensure she was still alive before he could calm his heart.

 Chapter 285 Feel Alive

    Others simply couldn''tprehend Kallum''s fear and unease.


    Calista sighed, his gaze fixated on a certain spot. Then, she spoke in a quiet tone. "Do you know? Before, I always had this surreal feeling, like I was in a game, and it glitched, causing me to restart. Even though everything went smoothly after the restart, I still felt this sense of being adrift, as if... It was as if I had died, and this so-called restart was just a dream, nothing more than a beautiful illusion."


    The corners of her mouth quirked up slightly as she spoke in a serene tone.


    Kallum furrowed his brows. He didn''t quite understand what Calista meant. What did she mean by restarting? And what is this beautiful dream she is talking about?


    "Perhaps this analogy isn''t the best, but all you need to remember is this. I might have a masochistic disposition. I somehow feel that it''s only in moments of pain that I truly feel alive," said Calista.


    Kallum was taken aback, only to see an unusual gleam flickering in her radiant, star-like eyes.


    "Can you imagine? I actually thought that pain was the only thing that was real. Isn''t that thought terrifying?"Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Although she was smiling, Kallum inexplicably sensed a profound sadness from her. Subconsciously, he pulled her into his arms, furrowing his brows for a while before he finally asked in a very soft voice. "Can I know what exactly you''ve been through elsewhere?" He had wanted to ask that question a long, long time ago, but he never did until that moment. Surprisingly, she replied to him with a smile, asserting that only pain was real.


    That made Kallum suddenly realize the pain she had endured when he wasn''t around was unimaginably immense!


    What could possibly be more distressing for her than having a terminal illness? Kallum couldn''t think of anything. Calista gave him a hazy nce. Her usually aloof and delicate face was slightly rxed, carrying a subtle smile.


    She traced circles on his chest, whispering, "It''s all in the past now. Although it was terrifying, and there were many times I thought I wouldn''t make it, it''s all behind me now." Clearly, Kallum was not satisfied with the answer, yet Calista simply chuckled lightly and asked, "Do you know why I treat you well?"


    Her words made Kallum unconsciously hold his breath.


    "It''s because I feel safe around you, and you never hurt me."


    Kallum pursed his lips, casting his gaze downward at her. "I''ve hurt you before."


    That was what he detested most about himself. In the past, he had unapologetically humiliated her time and time again, but it seemed as though she had forgotten all about it. In reality, Calista had truly forgotten.


    Her fingers gently traced the stripes on Kallum''s shirt as she spoke softly. "Something like that is not even worth mentioning."


    Compared to the persecution she endured, Kallum''s humiliation seemed as harmless as child''s y.


    She chuckled self-deprecatingly a bit. "Besides, I brought that humiliation upon myself. I''m grateful you didn''t really do anything to me, so I''m willing to be good to you."


    Kallum was at a loss for words to describe his feelings. He felt a tickle in his throat and managed to croak out, "Is it just because I didn''t hurt you that you''re being so kind to me?"


    What on earth had others done to her that was so terrifying? To the point that if someone didn''t hurt her, she would think well of them? Kallum couldn''t even begin to fathom it! What has gone wrong with my intelligencework? Why can''t I obtain any information on her? Calista chuckled lightly, her gaze lingering mysteriously on a certain spot.


    "Of course, it''s not just that." She


    lifted her gaze to meet Kallum''s eyes


    and narrowed her eyes as she


    smiled. "Have you forgotten how much used to adore you? Whatever you do, as long as it doesn''t cross the line, I can ept it. My tolerance for you has always been greater than for anyone else."


    "Even if it means dying with me, will you still be willing?" Suddenly, Kallum''s hand gripped tightly into Calista''s waist.


    She shook her head. "Like I''ve said before, neither you nor I are going to die."


    Her gaze suddenly sharpened, her tone brimming with immense


    ??? 8


    confidence wouldn''t gamble with my own life. As long as I''m here, conquering the K Virus is just a matter of time! I n to use it as a stepping stone to my sess! Thus,


    you can worry about all sorts of things, but you don''t need to worry


    about me dying."


    She didn''t lie. Although she was unaware of the names of the medicines that were once tested on her, she remembered vividly the sensation of each one entering her body. With her as the pioneer, oveing the K Virus was only a matter of time.


    Given the pace, it wouldn''t take too


    long before a cure was found. In her previous life, Calista was constantly oppressed and unable to prove herself. Hence, in her new life, she was determined to solve the world''s


    most challenging problem, ensuring her name would be known worldwide!


    Calista had always been a woman of action, not words. Thus, that was the first time she revealed her ambitions before fulfilling them.


    Realizing Calista was not deceiving him, Kallum was taken aback! With his heart pounding, he asked somewhat uncertainly, "So, how long do you think you''ll need?"


    ncing at him, Calista joked, which was rare. "If you don''t worry me, probably three months."


    Kallum suddenly blushed. I''m a grown man, four or five years older than Calista! I certainly don''t need anyone worrying about me!

 Chapter 286 Brothers In Distress

    But what''s this sense of sweetness within me? Is Calista... worried about me, so came to say all this to ease my mind? No, the more I think about it, the more embarrassed it is! I''m not... not that unreliable, right? Regardless, Calista''s rare assurance had Kallum''s gloomy mood from the past few days instantly take a turn for the better.


    However, even with her promise, he still couldn''t help but again ask in worry, "Are you really that confident?"


    Calista nodded without hesitation, spreading her fingers before clenching them fiercely. "K Virus? It''s nothing more than a prickly toy!"


    She shed him a somewhat arrogant smile thatpletely dispelled the gloom hanging over him.


    Knowing that Calista was confident and wouldn''t die, Kallum felt like a massive weight had been taken off him. It wouldn''t be an exaggeration to say he felt a sense of relief after a close brush with death. He took a moment to calm his racing heart.


    Then, holding her hand, he said in utmost solemnity, "This is thest time! In the future, no matter the reason, you can''t put yourself in such danger! Can you promise me that?"


    Her violet eyes flickered slightly, his handsome face taut with anticipation. He looked at her earnestly, waiting only for her promise.


    After this incident, there shouldn''t be any further danger. Following that thought, Calista nodded in agreement.


    "Of course. I highly value my life. You can always trust that I won''t do anything I have no confidence about achieving, let alone gamble with my own life."


    The couple exchanged a nce and smiled. For the first time, they truly appreciated the beauty of being alive.


    Kallum pinched her somewhat pale face. He couldn''t resist chuckling and replying, "You''re absolutely right. We''re brothers in distress now!"


    "Despite having a lot of money, every second is unbearable," Calista added somberly.


    Kallum couldn''t help but burst outughing. He held Calista even tighter as if cradling a delicate doll, cherishing her immensely.


    "Oh, I almost forgot. You''re also a wealthydy, aren''t you?"


    "I''m still inferior to you. You''re a tycoon."


    "But... what''s mine is yours. I, too, belong to you."


    Suddenly, Calista let out a sigh. "If you had presented yourself like this from the start, I definitely wouldn''t have fallen for you."


    She gestured slightly, then stated seriously, "I still prefer the aloof type."


    Kallum''s expression changed, his eyebrows arching high.


    "Are you saying you don''t like me? I dare you to repeat it once more."


    Calista looked at him. "Sure thing."All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    With a mischievous smile ying on her lips, she continued, "I''m a patient now. Could you bring yourself to do anything to me? Hmm?"


    A slight uplift at the end unexpectedly gave Kallum a sensation of his ears being singed.


    Previously, he had been so worried that all he felt was guilt and distress, unable to think of anything else. But right then, a wicked and intense thought suddenly popped into his mind.


    Callie and I are both infected. So, intimacy between us is seemingly... not... forbidden anymore? Being intimate with her?


    Even though he knew he shouldn''t have such a thought, it spread through his mind like wildfire. His mouth suddenly went dry.


    D*mn it! How could I entertain such a thought at a time like this? I''m a downright monster!


    Therefore, in order to mask his thoughts, Kallum swiftly changed the subject.


    "If it''s truly going to take that long, you should take some painkillers! I can''t stand to see you in pain."


    Calista shook her head. "I''ve got a


    grasp on the progression of the virus now. If you find it hard to bear, you can take some painkillers. My previous research was sessful. In a few days, I''ll have some new painkillers. They have fewer side effects and lower dependence but a strong analgesic effect. Consider it... a gift from me for your uing recovery?"


    A hint of sweetness suddenly filled Kallum. It was often said that a woman in love was the most beautiful. The same went for a man. He was just as captivating.


    Thinking about my pain, she took time out of her busy schedule to develop a painkiller with minimal side effects. If she were a man, she would undoubtedly be the kind of man who could charm women without uttering a word. "What about you? Will you take them with me?"


    Calista shook her head, a glimmer of coldness shing across her eyes. "I must endure the pain."


    Perception was an indispensable part when it came to memorizing medicine. Otherwise, her role as a test subject would be utterly pointless.


    "Then, neither will I take them. I can''t help you in this regard. The only thing I can do is empathize with you," Kallum said somberly.


    "Actually, you don''t have to go to


    such lengths ?alista shook her head. "You''ve already done so much for me. Without you, I wouldn''t have so many experts assisting me or be able to e able to enjoy such conveniences. I wouldn''t have been able to do


    whatever I wished. You''ve already helped me a lot.¡±


    "But I can''t shoulder the pain for you. Don''t turn me down, okay?" Kallum enunciated, his expression focused.


    Calista looked at him thoughtfully, only to find his gaze filled with sincerity. It was as if he genuinely wanted to do something for her, and rejecting him at that moment would hurt him.


    In the end, Calista relented.


    She said with a hint of helplessness,


    than


    "All right, then. Since we''re not using them, let''s give them to those in the quarantine area. Trust me-once''ve cured them, the Fairchild family will have a few more powerful allies."

 Chapter 287 For Experiment Purposes

    Kallum couldn''t help but chuckle. All those are nothing. What truly matters is her.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    The days flew past. Calista was wholly engrossed in conquering the virus, leaving her no time to deal with some people.


    Recently, two scandalous pieces of news circted in Horington. One was about the Yost family''s disastrous investment failure that has brought them perilously close to bankruptcy. The other was that after Harvey''s death, his entire fortune was inherited by his daughter. Back then, Harvey publicly acknowledged Quincy in front of everyone. Though there were someplications along the way, Quincy still managed to get her hands on Harvey''s inheritance as she wished.


    Primarily, it was because Harvey''s brothers dared not associate with him any longer. By then, his reputation was entirely ruined. Even if they wanted money, they had to consider whether they would live long enough to spend it. Hence, Quincy became Harvey''s heir and changed her name from Quincy Stafford to Quincy Wolford.


    At that moment, she had put the scene on the bridge that night out of her mindpletely. Although Harvey lost a considerable amount of money, the remaining assets were still enough to sustain a second-rate prestigious family.


    To put it simply, when i t came to wealth, Quincy had much more than Benedict. However, in terms of status, she was far behind him. After all, the Wolford family had already divided the family. Harvey was also dead, and his death was disgraceful at that. Therefore, she was essentially a woman without any backing but with a substantial dowry right then.


    Had her background been different, there might have been many suitors vying for her hand in marriage. However, the secrets Calista brought to light that night sufficed topletely strip Quincy of her eligibility to marry into wealthy families, reducing her to third-rate ones despite her wealth.


    At that moment, Quincy resumed her once high and mighty demeanor as she looked at Mirabelle, who wasining in front of her. When it came to shame, she had never been the one to lose.


    "I never thought your time in jail was that miserable..." Quincymented offhandedly while casually tending to her nails.


    In the garden of her home, she wore a revealing gown, dressing with the sophistication of a woman in her twenties despite being a girl of merely eighteen or neen.


    Swallowing her resentment, Mirabelle continued in aggrieve, "Although my dad pulled some strings for me, it''s impossible to make everything perfect in such a ce. I... I''m just too embarrassed to show my face in public anymore!"


    As she spoke of that, the humiliation she endured in the prison came rushing back to mind, and she couldn''t help but break down in tears. Her time behind bars resulted in her losing a significant amount of weight. d in a white dress then, she seemed all the more fragile. It was as if a gentle breeze could knock her over, indescribably pitiful.


    However, Quincy found it irritating. I''m not a man. Is there a need for her to cry in front of me?


    "Mirabelle, just say what you want to say. I still have to attend Mr. Huntington''s banquet. I''m running out of time!"


    Upon hearing that, Mirabelle nearly choked on her outrage. If it weren''t for a matter of great importance, I would nevere and seek out this shameless woman! But for now, I''ll put up with her!


    "To be honest, I''m here because I


    need your help. Quincy, we used to be friends in the past. Now, my father offended the Fairchild family for me. If we don''t find a way to raise funds within three days, our family will be ruined! Quincy..."


    "So, you came to borrow money from me?" Quincy snickered. "Who would have thought? The once high and mighty Ms. Yost came to me for a loan!"


    "Quincy..." Feeling humiliated, Mirabelle gritted her teeth and said, "I beg you! We at least have amon enemy, don''t we? Helping me will also be helping yourself!" At the mention of amon enemy, Quincy knocked over the ss at the side with a crash. Calista''s name was taboo for her.


    I''ll never forget how Calista had backed me into this situation! I would never let that b*tch off the hook!


    "I can help you if you want!" Quincy suddenly changed her tune.


    She took a deep breath, casually fluffed her recently cut ear-length hair, and sneered, "Go and doll up a bit. I''ll take you to meet someone. He will definitely help you."


    Calista had a piece of gauze stuffed in her mouth, her moans muffled. Agonizing pain, much like the sensation of being skinned alive, swamped her. The more reaction the medicine produced, the closer they were to sess. However, the process was simply too agonizing.


    As her clothes were soaked with sweat, Kallum grasped her hands firmly, fearing that she might hurt herself. He only stuffed something in her mouth to prevent her from biting her tongue. At first, Calista resisted, for she knew she would never do that no matter how excruciating the pain since she had been through it all before.


    Such a feeling of being drenched in sweat is so real that it''s nostalgic!


    After the pain had subsided, Calista weakly curled up in Kallum''s arms. At just that moment, Shaun intended to inject Calista with another medicine, but Kallum firmly gripped his wrist. "What are you doing? Can''t you see she''s in a bad way?"


    Even if this is for experiment purposes, isn''t she allowed to rest?


    ¨¦t


    Kallum''s gaze made Shaun flinch. But at that crucial moment, he had no choice but to steel himself and reply, "M Kallum, it''s precisely at this


    time that we can test the results... Otherwise, all the pain she endured previously would be in Vain."


    Calista''s head was buried in Kallum''s neck. She weakly interjected, "Let him inject me with it."


    Her words were thew. No matter how reluctant Kallum was, he had no choice but to relent. Thus, Shaun nervously injected the medicine into Calista under his menacing gaze.

 Chapter 288 Help Me Scrub My Back

    In no time, Calista''s body went taut. Following that, her body convulsed violently, and she passed out.


    "Callie?" Kallum anxiously reached out to feel her breath. Upon realizing she was still breathing, he felt a sense of relief. However, his relief was short-lived as rage quickly consumed him. Grinding his teeth, he fiercely questioned those present. "Is there no other way? Must you do this to her to conquer the virus? Then, what use are you lot to me?"


    "Mr. Kallum, this is an unavoidable situation... The oue of any endeavor requires inevitable sacrifices..." Bowen answered with a hint of helplessness.


    "Must she be the sacrifice? Is everyone else dead?"


    Kallum''s anger zed so intensely that it could set the entireboratory on fire. He red at everyone present and enunciated, "Are you all helpless without her? Just because you''re not the ones in pain, you remain indifferent and even take a mile while you''ve been given a minute?"


    Everyone looked embarrassed. Kallum was right in that when it came to conquering the K virus, all of theirbined efforts couldn''t match Calista''s usefulness. It was indeed quite shameful.


    "Enough... Stop... berating them..."


    At some point, Calista had opened her eyes. Surprisingly, she seemed rather spirited, and the pain didn''t seem as intense anymore.


    "Note that thebination of KA2 and SQ3 has a pronounced effect... I could feel the virus receding significantly in an instant. There also weren''t any adverse reactions..."This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She spoke intermittently, pausing every now and then. By the time she finished, the sky had turnedpletely dark.


    "All right, that''s enough for today. Let''s take a break first."


    After Calista had finished speaking, everyone present visibly rxed, for tormenting her in front of the overprotective man was more terrifying than facing the gallows.


    Seeing that Kallum''s gaze was still as intimidating, Calista shook her head.


    "If you keep this up, I''m going to have to cklist you from theboratory."


    "So you can then suffer where I can''t see?" Kallum raised an eyebrow, looking at her in clear disapproval. But catching a glimpse of her pale face, his heart softened instantly. He scooped her up and carried her back.


    After he had fed her, he gently ced the weak woman into the warm bathtub, which was already filled with medicinal solution. Thefort it provided made Calista breathe a sigh of relief.


    To put a positive spin on things, her life then was significantly better than her previous one.


    In her previous life, she was a test subject, devoid of human rights and given no rest. Those lunatics had no concern for her pain, continuously conducting experiments on her relentlessly. It was only when she could no longer bear it and was on the brink of death that they allowed her a brief moment to catch her breath.


    As for taking a bath, she didn''t even dare dream about it, let alone having someone by her side who cared about her and was always ready to offer hisforting embrace.


    Upon seeing that Calista seemed to be doing well, Kallum found himself admiring her resilience.


    sel.


    ording to Shaun, the pain Calista experienced after being injected with the medicine was at the human body''s limits. Yet, she managed to endure it Not only did she retain, sanity and didn''t develop psychological trauma or mutte herself, but she also acted as if nothing had happened. After the pain subsided, she could calmly describe her physical condition. It was as if she was beyond human.


    However, Kallum found it peculiar as well.


    He wasn''t sure if her past self was someone who could endure great pain, but he understood that all the oddity was likely rted to her sudden change in temperament. Nheless, it wasn''t exactly the best time for a discussion then.


    "Could you help me scrub my back?"


    Since Kallum volunteered to care for


    ???:


    her, Calista had no qualms about bossing him around. To have a CEQ scrub her back was absolutely delightful. Although he wascking in technique, his status was undeniable. At least, she had never imagined she could enjoy such treatment.


    She let out a contented sigh. Resting on the edge of the bathtub, she almost drifted off to sleep.


    Seeing her settle down, Kallum also


    breathed a sigh of relief. He was worried that she might suddenly think of something and rush back to theboratory, sometimes staying up all night. That had happened quite frequently recently. When she was fullymitted to something, her level of focus was simply frightening.


    The warm medicinal liquid flowed down her back. Her intimate areas were all submerged in the water, while the water was pitch-ck because of the added traditional medicine, rendering itpletely opaque. Consequently, Kallum couldn''t see anything.


    However, it wasn''t as if he truly couldn''t look as he was the one who undressed her.


    After scrubbing her back, Kallum hesitated, wondering if he should attend to other areas. She seems to be asleep, so I''ll just...


    "Could you help me wipe my front?"


    A somewhat cold voiceced with a hint of amusement abruptly rang out, causing him to blush slightly. He red at Calista fiercely. How wicked of her! She knows all too well that I can''t resist her, yet she always teases me subtly!


    Suddenly, a pair of arms wrapped around Kallum''s neck. Like a water nymph, Calista rose from the pitch-ck medicinal solution, leaving patches of brown stains on Kallum''s white shirt. She chuckled softly.


    "Actually, you''re endurance is far greater than I''d thought... It''s been so many days. There''s really no reaction at all on your part?"


    Kallum''s Adam''s apple bobbed. But a thought seemingly urred to him, and he firmly removed her hands and ced them into the medicinal solution.


    ""Cut it out!"


    "I didn''t do anything." Calista giggled. She submerged herself in the water to dispel the cold and suddenly looked at him with an innocent yet mischievous expression.

 Chapter 289 The First Stage Has Succeeded

    "Haven''t you ever thought of it?" Calista tilted her head, her voice dripping with seduction. "With us both infected, the issue of transmission no longer exists. As a normal man... don''t you have any thoughts about me?" Argh! She''s really pushing me to my limits!


    Kallum''s gaze was involuntarily glued to her face, her graceful neck, and her delicate corbone.


    D*mn it!


    He suddenly stood up, his eyes gleaming dangerously, and red at her menacingly.


    "Darn it! Once you''re well, I''ll make sure you can''t even get out of bed!"


    After he had finished saying that, he turned and left. Calista was left alone in the bathtub,ughing triumphantly. For some reason, she found it incredibly amusing to see Kallum with pent-up desire. As for what would happen after his recovery, she would deal with that when the time came.


    Upon returning to the room, Kallum downed several sses of ice water before he barely managed to quell his desire. However, the thought of Calista''s subtle flirtation, her smirk, and her captivating eyes left him feeling a touch deste. In the end, he copsed onto the bed in frustration, looking as though he had lost all will to live.


    "D*mn it, you little imp! I''ll make sure you can''t get out of bed! Just you wait!"


    As he said that through gritted teeth, he hesitated momentarily before deciding to give himself relief.


    At the height of physical agony and ecstasy, he frowned in slight displeasure. If it weren''t for Calista''s current hardship with testing the medicine, I... I would''ve devoured her a long time ago and marked every inch of her! Anyway, I''ve waited for so long. What''s a few more months? Just wait! Once I''ve recovered, she''d be doomed. Hmph!


    "N-No!"


    Mirabelle jolted upright with a startled cry, but the scene from a few days ago left her with indelible trauma.


    She couldn''t forget what she had given up to save her family from bankruptcy. Her innocence she had preserved for so long was squandered on a lowlife.


    She recalled her tarnished reputation, the year she spent behind bars, and her family havingpletely offended the Fairchild family, leaving her future bleak. Conversely, her nemesis thrived, receiving a marriage proposal and being pregnant. In fact, some reckoned that the unusual quietness of the Fairchild family was due to wedding preparations.


    All of this was supposed to be mine! It was Calista who stole my past! Were it not for her, Kallum would never have known who exactly saved him. Yes, he must have only changed his perception of her because he owed her a debt of gratitude. So, it''d be best if she were dead! If she had died, there would be no one to expose me, and I wouldn''t have ended up in this situation now...


    The more she thought about it, the angrier she grew. I''m now soiled, so why should she remain pure? What gives?


    In the darkness, Mirabelle''s eyes shimmered with madness.


    She thought of the man who took her precious first time and how she had him wrapped around her little finger. Perhaps I can do something about it, huh? "The first stage has seeded!"


    As everyone erupted in cheers, a hint


    of a smile bloomed on Calista''s pale face. She divided the conquer of the


    virus into three stages. The first stage, also known as the protection stage, had seeded. TheyThis content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    managed to enhance the efficacy of the antibodies to eighty percent. In other words, if one came into contact with the K virus, there was an eighty percent chance they wouldn''t get infected if they were injected with the antibodies in her hand within two hours. That breakthrough in the first stage was already enough to awe the world.


    "Let''s not publicize this for now. We can''t draw the world''s attention just yet. Let''s proceed directly to the second stage!" Calista said after pondering for a moment.


    The second stage was the inhibition stage, which@nvolved curbing the virus'' mutation within the body. Theplexity of the K virusy in its constant mutations once it entered the human body. Therefore, halting its mutation was not only the most challenging but also the most crucial step.


    That stage was the most difficult for Calista. As a human test subject, that was the most painful stage for her because once the inhibition was sessful, the virus within her body would rebound wildly. The pain she experienced then would be be nothing


    After ten non-special test subjects who were captured with her back then were injected with the medicine for the second stage that had seeded on her, eight of them died from the excruciating pain. The other two survived only because they were timely injected with anesthetics.


    The individuals present were all experts, so they could vaguely deduce how challenging the second stage would be for Calista.


    Thus, Bowen patted her on the shoulder and said solemnly, "Don''t rush things. You can take a few days to rest and prepare. Although we don''t have much time, everything has to be based on your endurance."


    Calista chuckled lightly. "My endurance is fine."


    After she had finished speaking, she shook her head. "We can''t wait much longer. Let''s start tomorrow. All of you have worked hard today, so rest well tonight."


    "Okay. You''re the one who should rest well."


    All other experts followed Calista''s lead at present because she was just too formidable. There were numerous times when they thought she couldn''t make it, but she always persevered. She didn''t at all seem like a girl less than twenty. After Calista had taken a bath, Quintus came to fetch her.


    "Ms. Calista, in celebration of this stage''s sess, Mrs. Fairchild personally cooked. She sent me to fetch you!"

 Chapter 290 Agreed To Marriage

    At the thought of Wanda, Calista''s stern expression softened slightly. She nodded. "Sure. Let me change my clothes, and I''ll be right over."


    Meanwhile, Wanda teased with augh, "Kallum, you don''t have any objections this time, do you?"


    Ever since she decided to be a test subject, Calista felt beyond confident about conquering the virus. After all, she had experienced it once and possessed an extraordinarily great memory.


    And so, besides sharing the joyful news with Kallum, she also informed Wanda about it. When thetter learned that Calista was confident about conquering the K virus, she was over the moon. She got out of her sickbed.


    Previously, she always felt guilty toward Calista and herte mother, leading to depression. However, once she learned that both Calista and Kallum would be fine, her spirits instantly lifted. Filled with trust and gratitude for Calista, she showered her with endless thanks and treated her even better than her own daughter.


    Right then, the entire Fairchild family was in high spirits due to the good news, and there were significantly more smiles than before.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    That night, Wanda was determined to finalize the marriage between Kallum and Calista. After all, Calista previously announced that she was pregnant. Naturally, the Fairchild family couldn''t be seen as irresponsible. Many people out there were watching their every move. Of course, most importantly, it would be safer to marry such a wonderful woman sooner rather thanter.


    Feeling slightly embarrassed, Kallum shot Wanda a re. However, the involuntary upturn of his lips gave him away. In truth, he had been wanting nothing more than to marry that enchanting vixen.


    Therefore, as soon as Calista came downstairs, she saw the entire Fairchild family gathered there.


    Hmm? A three-way trial?


    "Callie! Are you feeling any better?" Wanda couldn''t help asking upon seeing her still noticeably paleplexion.


    She walked over and gently guided her over by the hand to take a seat.


    "I''m feeling much better." The medicinal bath Calista had significantly eased her pain. However, herplexion would likely take a long time to improve.


    "What''s the asion today?" Calista couldn''t help butugh. "Actually, there''s no need for a special celebration. We can always celebrate after we''ve conquered the virus."


    Seeing her brimming with confidence, Ss smilingly shot his wife a nce. "Actually, today''s gathering isn''t just for celebration. There''s also an important matter we want to discuss." Calista sat beside Kallum, only to find him unusually stiff that day. His handsome face was stretched taut as if he was anxious about something, and he didn''t even spare her a nce. Calista found it rather peculiar.


    "I see... What is it?"


    For a moment, she genuinely couldn''t recall if she had forgotten something important.


    "Have you forgotten about your wedding, silly?"


    Calista was taken aback. Holding her hand, Wanda continued, "By now, the whole of Horington knows that Kaiser had proposed to you and that you''re carrying Kaiser''s ''child'', so if you don''t get married, people will start suspecting something amiss!"


    She paused for a moment before she went on earnestly, "Of course, what''s most important is how well the two of you get along. I can tell that you have feelings for Kaiser. Kaiser feels the same for you¡ª" "Mom!" Kallum''s face was stern, but his ears had turned red, and his gaze was evasive. How could she discuss such a matter so openly?


    It was then that Calista realized what she had overlooked.


    Ah, so that was it... Previously, we put on those two acts to dispel other people''s suspicion, and now, it''s time to pay for it... Marrying Kallum?


    In truth, Calista didn''t feel much about it. Her current feelings toward people and situations could be summed up in two categories-hate and neutral.


    She was neutral about both Kallum and Wanda, so there was seemingly no need to contemte the matter.


    However, she still hesitated for a moment. "Does my dad know about this?"


    "I naturally need your approval before I can talk to him!" Wanda shot Calista a reproachful look.


    Then, she added with a hint of guilt, "Actually, now isn''t the right time to discuss this. But since we''ve already announced it, people would start suspecting something if we dy further."


    In reality, people asked the Fairchild family every day about when they nned to hold a wedding. After all, Calista was already pregnant. Thus, many were under the impression that they would have a whirlwind marriage.


    Moreover, when Benedict came to see Calista previously, he also subtly inquired a few times. However, Calista always managed to deflect his questions. Now, it was finally time to confront the situation.


    Kallum felt a bit unsettled. His eyes


    bore into Calista intensely as if searching for a reason for her refusal. his eyes, Calista''s sacrifice for him indicated her deep love for him. Since they both loved the other, he couldn''t understand what there was to hesitate.


    Sensing Kallum''s gaze on her, Calista finally shook her head in resignation.


    "In that case... okay."


    Only then did Kallum breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Fantastic!" eximed Wanda in delight.


    Ss also said grinningly, "You two don''t need to worry about the wedding arrangements. I''ll have someone handle it. The date is set for a special date two months from now hope you both will be well that day It would be a case of a double blessing, then!"


    The matter of her marriage was hastily decided. Calista felt no particr emotion about it, but to others, it seemed as if she eagerly anticipated this marriage, hence herck of resistance. All in all, dinner was a delightful affair.


    After they had finished eating, Kallum led Calista back. She couldn''t tell if it was just her imagination, but Calista found his steps much lighter. Could it be that he''s looking forward to our marriage?


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 291 Her Heartbeat Stopped

    From despising me to looking forward to marrying me has only taken a year and a half...


    "What are you standing there in a daze?" Kallum turned around, only to notice that Calista was rooted to the spot with her gaze nted toward him. A slight smile yed on his lips, his upright posture and his lifted eyebrows making it known that he was in high spirits. "You''re very happy?" Calista asked, quirking an eyebrow.


    At her question, Kallum retracted his gaze quickly as if scalded before ring at her with a hint of dissatisfaction. "Are you not happy?"


    Calista was not one to put on a facade. She didn''t feel unhappy, but she wasn''t exactly thrilled either. Logically, it didn''t make sense. A wish that hadn''t been fulfilled in her previous life was suddenly realized in this one, so it boggled her mind that she wasn''t profoundly excited.


    However, Kallum was so ted that he overlooked that detail. In his eyes, Calista had always been a woman who was cold on the outside but warm on the inside, so he reckoned she was merely feigning calmness.


    He walked over and took her hand before continuing forward. As they walked through the open corridor, the scent of peony wafted into their nostrils. The rounded moon cast a silvery light that illuminated Kallum''s profile and added a glitter to his eyes. "I''m very happy," he suddenly murmured.


    Calista turned her head to look at him. At that same time, he also turned to look at her. In that instant, their eyes locked, and her heart inexplicably skipped a beat because she saw zing affection in his eyes.


    He gazed intently at Calista, his tone unwavering as he slowly repeated, "I''m genuinely happy. In the past, I saw marriage as a constraint, something I didn''t want if I had the choice. But now..."


    He chuckled lightly, baring his pearly whites as he lowered his gaze. There was an unexpected hint of innocence in his smile.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    "But now, thinking that it''s you I''ll be marrying, I can''t help but wonder why the special date is months from now."


    He actually find two months too long?


    While Calista was slightly dazed, a long and slender finger gently lifted her chin,pelling her to face him head-on. As she looked up, Kallum shed her a sidelong smile. "Tell me this. Do you also feel happy and excited?"


    I must be willing, no? That''s why he can draw close to me so brazenly and even kiss me. It''s just that for some reason, I haven''t had such feelings for the time being.


    Thus, she nodded. "I suppose I''m happy."


    Kallum burst intoughter. Watching Calista say so in all seriousness, he subconsciously felt that she was teasing him. She''s just too adorable!


    He couldn''t help but pull her into his arms and ruffle her hair, the sweetness within him about to overflow. Of course, he dared not be too bold in his action even though he yearned to pinch her overly serious face. For the first time in his life, he felt great contentment. "If only that d*mn virus didn''t exist!" Kallum shook his head. "Otherwise, this moment would have been perfect!"


    This time, Calista didn''t hesitate. "It won''t be long now. Trust me."


    As a thought came to her, she solemnly added, "Perhaps we might even have a double blessing then."


    Kallum''s gaze dimmed slightly, but he tenderly ruffled her hair.


    "I heard from Old Mr. Yancey that you''re going to have a tough time ahead."


    Yet, I''m unable to help at all.


    That thought immediately creased Kallum''s brows.


    He vowed, "After this matter is behind us, I won''t let you suffer even the slightest bit in the future!"


    Suddenly, Calista chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling like stars on a clear night. "Then... thank you in advance."


    "Thanks? We''ll be married."


    As expected, the following days were incredibly tough. Even though Calista had been through it once before and managed to avoid many avoidable mistakes, she still inevitably lost ten pounds.


    She was never fat to begin with. After such weight loss, her eyes appearedrger and sharper. When in pain, especially, the way she stared at someone was as if she could tear them to shreds.


    "Cr*p! Her heartbeat stopped!" a female researcher cried out, stirring everyone into action. "Epinephrine injection! She''s might not make it!"


    Upon seeing Calista''s pupils dte and her body convulse, Bowen acted decisively. In an instant, the entireboratory was filled with tension That was already not the first time such an incident had urred.


    One might wonder how it felt to be in so much pain that one went into shock.


    It was said that when someone was on the brink of death, they saw many things. Yet, each time Calista found herself facing death, she had only one thought-never give up.


    That was a profound truth she came to understand in her previous life and this one-as long as she didn''t give up, she wouldn''t die.


    After more than a dozen near-death experiences, Kallum had also found his footing, No longer did he feel as if it was the end of the world he did the first time. Instead, he stayed by her side, trusted, and encouraged her.


    "Callie! Wake up!"


    His voice trembled slightly, but he remained steadfast and repeatedly called out Calista''s name in her ear.


    "Callie! Wake up!"


    He held onto her hands tightly as if he could anchor her to him and prevent her from leaving by doing so.


    "Wake up!"


    After the epinephrine injection, Calista''s eyes darted around even more rapidly. Moreover, she seemed to be dreaming.

 Chapter 292 Past Memories

    "How does Callie sound?"


    An elegant elderlydy held a book, her demeanor devoid of any impatience, looking just like ady from a distinguished family.


    Pointing to a line, she adjusted her reading sses and began slowly, "The embodiment of beauty, a vision fair and bright. How about Calista? Calista, Callie, rolls off the tongue." An elderly man practicing calligraphy at the side nodded. With a swift movement of his hand, he wrote the word "Calista" on the parchment paper. "Perfect! It''s decided, then!"


    He beckoned at the little girl at the side, who was only about one or two years old. "Come here, honey bun. From now on, this will be your name!"


    The little girl was just as adorable as a honey bun, her cute, rounded face radiating pure innocence. She walked over clumsily.


    Calista had an exceptional memory from a young age. She could vividly recall events from when she was only over a year old. She even remembered the color of the clothes her grandfather wore that day. She also remembered it was a beautiful and warm morning, with lovely sunlight filtering through the maple tree forest to stream into the house''s courtyard.


    Her grandmother covered her mouth as she chuckled. "I hope that young man from the Fairchild family will treat my honey bun with the same affection as her name suggests in the future, cherishing her as his brightest and most beloved possession."


    Perhaps that was also her greatest wish when she chose the name Calista.


    The scenes kept shifting, transitioning from her tender childhood to adolescence and adulthood. However, the further it progressed, the more terrifying it became. When the two elderly people who cherished her dearly passed away, it was as if she was also forgotten, bing someone superfluous.


    The scenes grew increasingly terrifying until she began to feel terrified, cry, and run away.


    This shouldn''t be happening! I''m supposed to... supposed to be treated as the most precious and beautiful possession... This isn''t my fate! Perhaps all I need to do is to endure this period, and it''ll pass. That must be it...


    But she soon realized that the more she persisted and refused to ept her fate, the crueler the world seemed to treat her.


    Every time she found herself in a desperate situation, she dared not give up because she knew that the moment she allowed herself to sumb to despair, it would be the end of her for real.


    But despite my refusal to give up, why do I still end up in a desperate situation? Why?


    A tear slipped out from the corner of her eye, promptly silencing the crowd around Calista. Kallum''s heart abruptly clenched. He reached out and carefully touched that single tear, yet felt as if it were moltenva. It didn''t just scorch his hand but also burned a gaping hole in his heart.


    "What''s going on?"


    Some of those present inexplicably swung their gazes to Shaun because they had never seen Calista shed a tear.


    In times past, when the pain was even greater than it is now, she never shed a tear. So, why did she suddenly cry today?


    Moreover, everyone''s heart softened following her tears. They even began to entertain the idea that the experiment should not continue. Seeing her in distress, their conscience stung faintly.


    Previously, when she was indifferent, they could still avoid thinking about it. But now that she cried, it felt as if all their strength had been drained away, leaving them unable to continue with their work.


    Kallum felt much more distressed


    than anyone there. The moment Calista started crying, his eyes also turned red-rimmed. However, he knew that her tears were not due to pain but because she was dreaming. The movement of her eyes indicated that she was still in her dream, experiencing a scene of despair, leading to her crying.


    If possible, Kallum truly wished he could enter her dream and alter its course, yearning to protect her thoroughly.


    "What... did I... do wrong?"


    I was just gifted, but I was exploited


    and milked by Quincy. I was merely betrothed through an arranged marriage, yet Mirabelle was consumed by jealousy and sabotaged me. I only wasn''t willing to sacrifice myself to prolong someone else''s life, yet I was hunted down. All I wanted... was to escape, yet I was caught, injected with a virus, and reduced to a mere test subject devoid of human rights...


    Throughout her life, she was constantly on the run. However, her nightmares were endless. Countless times, she yearned deep within her heart for someone to lend her a hand. She didn''t aspire to be treated as the most precious and beautiful possession or cherished. All she desired was someone to lend her a hand and give her a moment''s respite. The intermittent muttering by Calista in her dream made Kallum grip her hand even tighter.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    "Callie! You did nothing wrong! It was all their fault! Would you please wake up? I''ll treat you well. I''ll treat you well for the rest of my life, always only be good to you and you alone!" "Liar."


    Suddenly, Calista opened her eyes. Her pupils contracted slightly, and lingering fear from her dream remained in the depths of them, but her voice had already calmed.


    In this world, there''s no such thing


    as redemption, only equivalent


    exchange. Emotions are merely a supplement built on this principle of that. In reality, only interests


    In other words, emotions are


    atter.


    unnecessary. Since escape is not an option, I''ll seize the initiative in this


    lifetime, utilizing all avable


    resources to turn the tables on


    them!


    Kallum was taken aback by her suddenly gloomy gaze, a strong sense of unease surging from his chest. Even as his fingers were inteced with hers at that moment, he felt an immense distance between them, so much so that he began to doubt whether she truly loved him as deeply as he thought.


    "Thank goodness! You''re finally awake!" Bowen let out a long sigh of relief. "If you had remained unconscious, I think my heart might have stopped."


    The sole female expert was ovee with emotion, tears streaming down her face. "You''ve suffered so much... It''s such a relief that you''ve woken up... It''s good that you''re awake!"

 Chapter 293 A Dark Emotion

    Calista closed her eyes, feeling a sharp pain coursing through her body. This familiar sensation brought a slight smile to her lips.


    "Not only have I awoken, but I also have some good news to announce."


    Her voice was hoarse, but her eyes had regained their rity. She took a moment to gather her senses.


    "Hmm... Yes, that''s the sensation. Was it a blend of serums No. 1, No. 4, and No. 9 that was injected into me previously? The dosage and ratio were a bit off, but that''s definitely it!"


    A gleam of delight shed in Shaun''s eyes.


    "So you''re saying..."


    Calista''s lips curled up slightly. "Exactly what you''re thinking. I believe we''ll soon be done with the second phase!"


    As soon as Calista finished speaking, the researchers erupted into cheers.


    During this period, even though they weren''t the ones suffering, seeing Calista in distress made them feel deeply upset. Theboratory always seemed to be enveloped in an unshakeable gloom, one that was suffocating. But now, they had finally survived the most challenging period.


    "This is a cause for celebration! After more than a month, I can finally get a good night''s sleep."


    When everyone was asleep at night, they were haunted by Calista''s suppressed screams. It was nothing short of a torment of the body and mind.


    However, Kallum found no joy as he stared at his empty hands. He wasn''t sure if he was just being oversensitive, but since Calista had woken up, she hadn''t given him a single nce.


    Kallum felt he might have overreacted and guessed that Calista was just eager to share the good news. Thus, he knew he shouldn''t have been so sensitive.


    Following that, Calista, after taking a few doses of medicine, didn''t dare to rest for even a moment and immediately began conversing with her fellow researchers rapidly.


    At this stage, it would take some time to fully conquer the situation. Even if they were sessful in the second phase, they couldn''t let the news leak. After all, not everyone possessed the same level of endurance as Calista. There was a fear that others might be tormented to death.


    Hence, the research still had to continue.


    Once they were done for the day, it was already past one in the morning. Only then did everyone notice that Kallum had been patiently waiting by the side the whole time.


    They suddenly had a peculiar feeling when they realized that for the past few hours, Calista had not exchanged a single word with him.


    Shaun said, "Everyone''s exhausted today, so head off to rest now. We''re meeting at five in the morning, which gives you less than four hours to rest."


    Although he had made such a demand, not a single person raised an objection. It was a critical moment in the experiment, and it waspletely normal to be asked to stay on for twenty-four hours. The only reason there were breaks was out of concern that Calista might not be able to handle it. After all, she was the most authoritative figure and the one who suffered the most among them. Moreover, she never missed a day of work.


    Only then did Calista nod, dismissing everyone with a wave of her hand.


    She rubbed her forehead, a simple action that made her feel as if her arm muscles were on the brink of tearing apart. The pain was simply unbearable.


    Compared to the pain she had experienced before, it was her current emotions that filled her with satisfaction.


    "Alright then, see you tomorrow."


    After speaking, she took a few steps toward the door. Then, as if she remembered something, she turned back to look at Kallum.


    Everyone had the good sense to


    leave first, sensing that Kallum truly cared for Calista. Also, her feelings for Kallum were undeniable. They were usually so in love that it was baffling how they could have a sudden disagreement that day.


    ¡°Are you not leaving?¡± The deep exhaustion in Calista''s voice was palpable. In her current state, even if Kallum harbored a multitude of grievances, he couldn''t bring himself to vent them.


    He rose silently and offered her a slight smile. "Alright, let''s head back," he suggested. "I''ll have Judy cook something for you. You look rather weak."


    Calista nodded, taking the lead as she moved ahead.


    Her demeanor was not much different from usual, but somehow, Kallum could sense a profound barrier between them.


    In the past, Calista was unassuming. She didn''t show any signs of aggression when there was no danger. Instead, she would exude anguid aura.


    But now, even her silence seemed to repel others. Her transformation left Kallum feeling both anxious and slightly panicked. What did she dream about? What could have caused such a drastic change?


    Kallum struggled to convince


    himself that this was merely an


    illusion. He stepped forward to


    grasp Calista''s hand, but the


    moment his fingers brushed against her, Calista recoiled as if she had been electrocuted. Her reaction


    caused Kallum''s heart to sink


    instantly, his expression turning


    grim.


    "What''s wrong?"


    He suppressed his anger, striving to maintain a smile. Yet, his eyes held a judgmental gaze, unwaveringly fixed on her.


    Within the icy corridors of theThis text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    Yet, there was a dark emotion roaring within her-Why didn''t you save me? Why didn''t you save me? Why didn''t you save me? Why!


    The scream lingered hauntingly in her ears.


    Suddenly, Calista''s eyes turned bloodshot. She had not experienced such rage in a long time. It was abnormal and was an unhealthy state of mind. Therefore, she knew she had to absolutely keep it in check. "I..." Calista clenched her fist, then gradually loosened it, silently letting out a breath.

 Chapter 294 Twice The Pain

    "After the injection, the level of pain I''m experiencing is twice as much as yours. So, if you touch me, it hurts a lot."


    After she spoke, she furrowed her brows deeply, as though she was truly in difort.


    Upon receiving an exnation at least, Kallum felt much more at ease. His tense body gradually rxed as he spoke, a hint of guilt in his voice.


    "Sorry, I didn''t anticipate this," said Kallum. The realization that Calista''s pain was twice as intense as his own was unbearable. "How long will this situationst?"


    Calista looked away, wearied.


    "Until the K virus is defeated."


    Her voice was devoid of any emotion, as if she was speaking about someone else. "You don''t need to worry. Pain bes habitual over time. In a few days, I won''t find it as unbearable. But right now, I''m really tired, and I don''t want to talk anymore. That''s it." After she finished speaking, she slowly started moving forward in silence.


    Knowing that she was in pain, Kallum couldn''t bring himself to say a word, which would only weigh down on her further. Perhaps, she''s just exhausted?


    Kallum kept telling himself this, but the unease in his heart only grew stronger.


    He had this lingering sensation that she had never truly been his. But how is this possible? If Callie didn''t love me, how could she havee this far for me? The pain that she''s enduring now is all for me. If this isn''t love, then what was it?


    In any case, Kallum refused to believe the notion that Calista did not love him. After all, her actions spoke volumes. She has loved me deeply for so many years. How could that love just suddenly disappear?


    Upon this thought, Kallum let out a self-deprecating chuckle, then steeled himself to catch up with her.


    However, in the following days, Calista''s actions thoroughly confirmed Kallum''s suspicions.


    It seems as though Callie... somewhat hates me?


    Hate wasn''t the exact word to describe it, but it was clear that Calista had inexplicably be much more distant toward him.


    A few dayster, Kallum could no longer contain himself and confronted her.


    "Callie!"


    Calista put down what she was holding and looked up at him. Her gaze held no hint of impatience, only crystal-like rity. It was as if she was looking at him, yet also as if she wasn''t.


    Suppressing the unease in his heart, Kallum frowned and said, "You never used to work while eating."


    Recently, whenever she found herself alone with him, she would always be busy. This habit made it impossible for anyone to get a word in, further intensifying the uneasy feeling that was growing within Kallum. "Okay."


    Calista did as she was told and put down what she was holding. In reality, if she had given him an exnation, such as it was a critical time or that work was important, Kallum would have felt much better. Unfortunately, she didn''t. After uttering a single "okay," Calista immersed herself in her meal, savoring it as if it were some rare delicacy.


    Her indifferent attitude left Kallum unable to suppress the frustration brewing within him. His brows knitted together, his tone bing somewhat harsh.


    "Are you distancing yourself from me?"


    Calista was slightly taken aback.


    Suddenly, Kallum reached out, stretching across the table to grab Calista''s hand and forcing her to look at him. His gaze then was intense and burning. "After we set our wedding date, you began to distance yourself from me. The least you could do is tell me what I did wrong!"


    For Kallum, the past few days of


    restraint had been nothing short of a miracle. So now, when he finally let loose, he was teetering on the edge of losing control, leaving everyone around him on edge.


    However, Calista faced his simmering rage with such indifference that she didn''t even bat an eyelid.


    "No," Calista denied, lowering her gaze, "I''m not."


    "You''re not?"


    Kallum raised an eyebrow, his pitch rising in tandem. His eyes seemed as if they could spew fire then.


    "Normally when we''re together,This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    you''re never as cold as you are now!


    You''re not


    not always engrossed in


    work. You''ve clearly said it before, all


    you wanted to do when you came


    back was to rest!"


    Moreover, whenever they were alone together, Calista always became somewhatnguid. But now, she made a point to sit across from him even if that was all they were doing. Calista let out a deep sigh, then calmly asked, "Are you being overly sensitive?"


    "Calista!"


    Kallum sprang to his feet. Not only had Calista distanced herself from him and refused to tell him, but she also wouldn''t admit it.


    D*mn it, I don''t know what to do with her again!


    "I being overly sensitive? So, you''re admitting that what I said is true, right? You really are distancing yourself from me!"


    He spoke rapidly, as if sparks could fly at any time.


    "Why are you doing this? If I''ve upset you in any way, you could just tell me. Why are you giving me the cold shoulder? I need you to tell me!" Seemingly scorched by the other party''s fury, Calista recoiled a little, her sense of difort evident.


    "I think you need to calm down."


    In reality, she didn''t even know why she acted that way, she just felt an inexplicable urge to do so. Moreover, she wasn''t very good at concealing her true feelings, which was why her intentions were easily read by


    others.


    But given the current situation, she couldn''t handle it either. So she simply stood up, speaking in a cold, firm tone.


    "Since you''re upset at the sight of me, I might as well leave."

 Chapter 295 The Kiss

    "Calista!" Seeing her wanting to leave without even offering an exnation, Kallum lost all rationality. He stormed forward to cut her off, holding her and pressing her tightly against the wall.


    The advantage of this position was that he didn''t have to worry about her running away.


    "Darn it! Trying to escape? You better answer me first!"


    His breath enveloped her instantly. Despite his stern countenance and harsh tone, it was undeniable that the moment he drew close to her, Kallum''s voice unconsciously softened.


    His anger came quickly, but it also dissipated just as rapidly when he was faced with her, especially when he thought about how hard Calista had been working recently. He simply couldn''t bear to truly me her, and his outburst was merely the result of being able to control his own emotions.


    Under Kallum''s intense gaze, from which she could not escape, Calista had no choice but to meet his stare.


    Especially upon witnessing the concern beneath his anger and how his stance quickly softened, she felt a sting in her heart, causing her to abruptly close her eyes in pain.


    It''s clear that I am in the wrong. I shouldn''t have let a mere dream dictate my emotions, allowing negativity to take control of my mood. Logically speaking, Kallum hadn''t really done anything wrong in his previous life.


    She repeated a mantra to herself three times in her mind, each repetition quelling the lingering frustration within her. When Calista opened her eyes again, they were filled with a sense of helplessness. Being in a romantic rtionship really didn''t suit her current circumstances. There were just too many things that Kallum had to be careful about when it came to her.


    After a moment of contemtion, she suddenly stood on her tiptoes and gently kissed Kallum on the lips. Her eyes, sparkling like stars, gazed at him as if they could speak.


    "Don''t be angry anymore, okay?"


    Rendered speechless, Kallum was on the verge of going insane.


    How is it that before I can even vent my anger, I ampletely disarmed by just one look from her? What on earth is going on?


    Who could possibly stay angry when the woman they liked had just kissed them and was now looking at them like that?


    However, if he were to just let it go, he would be giving up his authority as a husband in the future.


    Kallum wore a scowl on his face, his eyes flickering as he refused to look at her. His expression clearly conveyed that he was not that easy to appease and she had to try harder to earn his forgiveness. Such an expression triggered a chuckle from Calista.


    She wrapped her arms around Kallum''s waist and tilted her head up, affectionately nuzzling against him.


    "A few days ago, I had a nightmare, so... I was a bit shaken up, but I''m fine now. Can we please not dwell on this anymore?"


    Due to how aloof Calista was usually, any initiative from her seemed incredibly rare. Also, Kallum was easily contented. With that, when Calista embraced him, all his anger simply evaporated.


    With a snort, Kallum feigned dissatisfaction and said, "What kind of nightmare was that to make you... Hmph!"


    Calista lowered her gaze, then wrapped her arms around Kallum''s neck, giving him a deep kiss.


    Enveloped in an enticing fragrance, Kallum''s eyes instantly became dreamy. He was well aware that this was a honey trap, but he couldn''t bear to push her away. Instead, he allowed himself to relish the intimacy she was showing him.


    The kiss lingered a bit longer than


    expected, so long that Kallum''s body


    ele


    began to burn up uncontrobly. He suddenly opened his eyes, gazing at Calista''s delicate, trembling eyshes. In his eyes, two batts of mes seemed to have suddenly ignited.


    "Mmm?"


    Calista gasped in surprise before she found herself swept off her feet by Kallum, who carried her to the bed. Although they had been sharing the same bed at night, their interaction had been limited toddle chatter. Particrly in the recent days, they hardly talked at all. Hence, when they finally reconciled, the


    intensity of their reconnection was quite incredible.


    Sinking into the soft bed and having a man press down on her, Calista was somewhat taken aback. Meanwhile, Kallum felt a hint of embarrassment under her lustless gaze. However, the desire within him drove him on. From the first time he slept with her, two years had passed. He didn''t think it unreasonable to have the urges of an ordinary man.


    With this thought in mind, Kallum was reinvigorated by his new-found confidence.


    "I... What I mean is, since we''re both infected, can we maybe take things a step further? Hmm?"


    Kallum''s eyes shifted around but firmly rested on Calista in the end. His deep yearning was so evident that no further words were needed.


    At that moment, Calista found herself thinking that Kallum was somewhat adorable.


    Her fair hand caressed his face, causing Kallum''s breath to halt instantly. Then, he heard Calista speak in a deeply teasing tone.


    "From a scientific standpoint, it''s not advisable to engage in intense physical activity after eating."


    Kallum''s eyes widened before he clenched his teeth and leaned in to kiss her lips, his wordsing out muffled.


    "Exercising after a meal aids digestion!"


    His voice gradually faded away. His fingers impatiently tugged at Calista''s clothes, his breathing bing increasinglybored. The two of them were entwined on therge bed, making for a passionate scene. Calista didn''t resist, for she had always taken pleasure in sex. After all, having experienced death once, she had long sincee to terms with such things. She just didn''t usually indulge in it excessively.


    Herpliance filled Kallum with


    satisfaction, for it was a testament


    to Calista''s love for him. After all,


    any woman cared about who they slept with. So, the unease of the past few days was instantly alleviated, making him even more eagen He practically tore off Calista''s top, greedily gazing at her fair skin and murmuring as if he were in a dream. Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 296 This Will Alleviate The Pain

    "Trust me, doing this will alleviate the pain."


    Calista nodded subtly. She had to admit that when Kallum kissed her, the pain in her body seemed to lessen significantly. Such was the strange effect of hormones. Just as the two were bing increasingly engrossed in the moment of passion, a sudden knock on the door echoed through the room, leaving them both startled. Subconsciously, Kallum covered Calista with the nket, asking discontentedly. "Who is it?"


    Upon hearing her son''s annoyed voice, Wanda felt a wave of guilt wash over her. She wondered if she had inadvertently disrupted something, but it was just past dinner time. With a stiffened resolve, Wanda said, "Callie, your dad''s here. Aren''t you going to see him?"


    It was then that Calista remembered that Benedict should have arrived by then. After all, just a few days ago, Wanda had discussed her marriage ns with him. Since she hadn''t returned home, Benedict had no choice but toe and check in with her. "Um... I''m on my way."


    Calista gave Kallum a nudge, swiftly getting dressed. Off to the side, Kallum grumbled, "Who visits at this time?"


    In his heart, he had long stopped considering Calista as part of the Stafford family.


    Calista chuckled. "Since we''re getting married, do you really think you can avoid meeting my dad?"


    Kallum cast his covetous gaze over her. The more he thought about it, the more regretful he felt. The night was when she felt the most difort, so it was impossible for him to make a move then. Everything had fallen into ce perfectly at that moment; it was such a pity it had been disrupted.


    Despite the dissatisfaction swelling within him, he refrained from voicing hisints. Instead, he simply hummed in response. "Of course not. I''ll apany you to meet Dad!"


    He''s calling him Dad already? Calista suddenly felt a strange sensation. Their progress was incredibly fast. Although they were only getting married and had to wait until she was of age to officially register, it was undeniably a whirlwind romance.


    While she was lost in thought, twenty minutes had already passed by the time they were ready to meet Benedict.


    Benedict probably knew his timing wasn''t the best. He would have preferred toe a littleter, but recent events were just too difficult to put into words.


    Upon seeing Kallum arrive with Calista, Benedict''s emotions were incrediblyplex. Although he was technically Kallum''s future father-inw, he found himself unable to assert any form of authority over thetter.


    Kallum hadn''t ventured out for quite some time, yet his reputation seemed to grow increasingly fearsome. He had effortlessly crushed the Wolford family, and Harvey was dead. If it hadn''t been for Harvey''s associates changing sides swiftly, it was only a matter of time before the Fairchild family gradually took them down.


    So, even though Kallum had always been fairly kind to him, Benedict never dared to act arrogantly in front of the former.


    "Callie, Mr. Kallum..."


    "You''re still calling him Mr. Kallum?" Upon seeing Kallum''s eyebrow raised in dissatisfaction, Quintus said with a smile, "He''ll soon be your son-inw!"


    Wanda also added, "That''s right. They say a son-inw is like a half a son. In the future, you''ll have to look after Kallum, my dear inw!"


    "Not..." Benedict wiped the sweat from his forehead, repeatedly waving his hands in denial.


    However, Kallum didn''t let him off the hook. He seriously greeted, "Dad."


    At this point, Benedict felt even more uneasy. Although the couple had been engaged for many years, when it came to the moment of Kallum acknowledging him as his father-inw, Benedict still found it incredibly surreal. After exchanging a few words, Wanda tactfully led everyone away, giving the father and daughter some privacy.


    Calista took a seat on the couch. Getting straight to the point, she said, "Go ahead, what''s the matter?"


    She noticed that Benedict had been uneasily watching her since the very beginning, clearly indicating he had something to discuss with her.


    After everyone had left and the atmosphere was no longer as tense, Benedict revealed a distressed expression.


    "Callie, I feel like... someone''s trying to kill me!"


    "Hmm?" Calista looked at him, puzzled.


    Benedict furrowed his brows.


    "Perhaps it''s not just a feeling, you know. These past few days have been strange. The day before yesterday, I nearly got hit by a car Yesterday, I tripped on something and almost hit my head on a sharp rock. And just now, right when I was about to leave the house, my car brakes suddenly failed! I had to run until the car ran out of gas before I could catch a taxi over here."


    The expression on Calista''s face gradually shifted from indifference to seriousness.


    One or two incidents could be chalked up to coincidence, but as they increased, it became clear that Benedict might be on to


    kill


    something-someone was ou


    him. However, to say that Benedict had offended someone would be overestimating him. The only usible exnation was that they were actually targeting her.


    Seeing that Calista remained silent, Benedict said, "I can''t recall offending anyone. I suspect they weren''t targeting me. What puzzles me is that, if I were to die, it doesn''t seem like it would have much of an impact on you..." "What do you mean by having no impact on me?" Calista suddenly raised an eyebrow. "If you were to die before my wedding, it would likely be postponed indefinitely, and any dy implies uncertainty."


    Calista''s ominous words sent chills down Benedict''s spine, causing beads of sweat to form on his forehead.


    "What should I do then? Should... should I hire some bodyguards?"


    Calista shook her head. "I''ll have Kallum assign someone to protect you. For the time being, it''s best if you avoid going anywhere other than the office."


    When Benedict left, Kallum had sent


    one


    Quintus to apany him. If anyone was most concerned about this marriage affair, it was undoubtedly Kallum. Therefore, to ensure there were no problems, Quintus was sent with ten specially-trained bodyguards who were also tasked with protecting Benedict around the clock. Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 297 Aiming For A Child

    "It isn''t actually that dangerous," Calista analyzed. "Since they choose to kill him by staging an ident, it shows that the person only dares to operate in the shadows. They''re not really a threat, so there''s no need to mobilize so many people.''


    "Why shouldn''t I?" Kallum raised an eyebrow, stating firmly, "I won''t let anything disrupt our wedding!"


    Calista couldn''t help butugh. "You''re taking this so seriously, so I guess I have no choice but to aim for a child at the same time?"


    Kallum alsoughed. "That would be perfect!"


    At that moment, Paul suddenly approached, speaking with a hint of hesitation.


    "Mr. Kallum, Mr. Yost and his daughter are requesting to meet you."


    Kallum''s heart skipped a beat as he nced at Calista somewhat uneasily. This is strange. I haven''t done anything wrong, so why am I feeling guilty?


    Calista, however, said with great interest, "The Yost family? Perhaps they have to beg for mercy. Let them in."


    Upon hearing Calista''s instructions, Paul promptly set off to carry them out. After all, everyone knew that Calista''smands were essentially Kallum''s wishes.


    "Callie, if you don''t want to meet them, you really don''t have to."


    With a huff, Kallum grudgingly added, "It''s not like they are anyone of importance."


    "No, I just wanted to see what Mirabelle has be after a year in prison."


    After all, there was nothing more satisfying than witnessing one''s adversary''s misfortune.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    Before long, she caught sight of Mirabelle, gracefully adorned in a white dress. Considering the weather, it was quite a feat for thetter to wear such a thin dress. Mirabelle seemed unchanged from a year ago, which left Calista somewhat disappointed. If Mirabelle knew what Calista was thinking, she would surely be livid.


    Her life was anything but unchanged. In just over a year, the reputation she painstakingly built in the entertainment industry was ruined. After the scandal at school, she could no longer attend it. She had always aspired to marry into a prestigious family, but now, no one would ever marry a convicted felon, let alone the Fairchild family.


    In the past, Mirabelle was ady of high society, desired by many. However, she had fallen from grace, her current status barely a notch above Quincy.


    "Kal." Mirabelle first gave Kallum a pitiful nce, then turned her attention to Calista. "Callie..."


    Her father, George, also appeared distressed. "Mr. Kallum, Ms. Stafford, I''vee with my daughter to apologize."


    He appeared considerably thinner, bearing the marks of a life filled with hardships. "We hope that you will be able to forgive us, Mr. Kallum."


    Ss was not at home, and Wanda had even less tolerance for them, so she didn''t show up. If it wasn''t for Calista''s request to see them, it was uncertain whether the Yost family would have even been allowed in. With a scoff, Kallum said, "Don''t you thinking to apologize now is a little toote?"


    George was immediately awash with embarrassment. They hadn''t even sat down yet, but Kallum''s intention to kick them out was crystal clear.


    "Mr. Kallum, there might be a misunderstanding here. We havee with a sincere heart..."


    Seeing that her words didn''t sway Kallum, Mirabelle darkened her gaze. However, she quickly shifted her attention to Calista and spoke.


    "Callie... there are some things I''d like to discuss with you privately. Could you step out for a bit and let our father chat with Kal in private?"


    "Whatever it is, you can say it here. I am her husband. There''s nothing I shouldn''t hear."


    Upon hearing that Mirabelle nned to spend time alone with Calista, Kallum was instantly reminded of the previous incident where Mirabelle smashed Calista with a stone. He instantly grew wary. Mirabelle put on a look of hurt, but she didn''t back down. She was determined to see Calista today, no matter what.


    "Callie, do you not want to know about your sister''s affairs?"


    "Quincy?" Calista suddenly seemed interested. She pondered for a moment, then stepped forward and said, "Alright then, let''s go for a walk."


    "Callie?" Kallum held onto Calista''s hand, the disagreement on his face was telling. "I''m staying with you. After all, I don''t have anything to talk about with Mr. Yost."


    "Mr. Kallum..." George pleaded, breaking into a cold sweat. "Please, grant me another chance. The Yost family sincerely wants to offer our apologies..."


    Calista waved her hand dismissively. "No worries. You just stay here and chat with Mr. Yost. As it happens, I too would like to catch up with Ms. Yost."


    Upon seeing that Calista''s mind was


    made up, Kallum, despite his disagreement, could only direct his frustration at the Yost family. I can''t believe them. Hasn''t Callie suffered enough? Why can''t these people take the hint?


    Kallum''s concern nearly drove Mirabelle to grit her teeth in frustration, as Kallum had never cared so much for someone before. If she hadn''t witnessed it herself, Mirabelle would never have believed it, but seeing it with her own eyes only fueled her resentment.


    "This way please."


    Calista spoke to Mirabelle, prompting her to finally pull away the lingering gaze she had no Kallum. Then, she left with Calista.


    Within the garden of Fairchild Manor, the weather was gloomy, looking like it was going to rain. Consequently, some of the valuable flower species had been moved indoors. "Go on, what do you want to tell me?"


    "Callie..." Mirabelle said with a hurt


    tone, "Do we really have to be this distant? Over the past year, I''ve been filled with regret every day in jail. Now, truly regret my actions. Could you give me another chance for us to continue being friends?"


    Her face was pale as she spoke earnestly. If it had been the old Calista, she might have wavered momentarily. But now...

 Chapter 298 Showing Her True Face

    Calista nced at her. "What did you want to tell me about Quincy?"


    Seeing that Calista was impervious to her friendly gesture, Mirabelle had no choice but to abandon her n of befriending the former. She said bitterly, "You''re not aware yet, are you? Quincy has recently gotten involved with a bigwig!"


    "A bigwig?" Calista raised an eyebrow nonchntly. "How big?"


    Mirabelle didn''t spill the beans right away. Instead, she decided to keep Calista in suspense.


    "She asked me to ry a message to you. In three days, the Wolford family is hosting a banquet and she insists on your presence." Worried that Calista might not take it seriously, she added, "She also mentioned that if you don''t go, Benedict might suffer a minor mishap..." Only then did Calista look at her with a concerned expression.


    "Since it''s difficult to guard against her, I think you should really make the trip."


    Calista didn''t give an answer. Instead, she suddenly asked, "What about you? How was your experience in prison this past year?" Mirabelle''s face suddenly changed.


    "It seems it wasn''t really good. Perhaps you had to curse me every day in prison just to get through the day. So what was it that prompted you, after getting out, to pretend to want to be friends with me?" "Calista!"


    Mirabelle gritted her teeth, her face instantly darkening. "Has anyone ever told you how annoying you are!"


    "There might be."


    Upon witnessing Calista''s dismissive expression, Mirabelle could no longer keep up her act and spoke out in frustration.


    "That''s the very look! What''s so special about you? You''re only relying on Kallum''s affection for you. If it weren''t for the Fairchild family, Harvey, no, Sterling would have destroyed you! What reason is there for you to feel so smug?"


    "Before, I wasn''t too pleased, but seeing your disdain for me and your inability to get rid of me, I''m quite satisfied now."


    "Heh, aren''t you celebrating a bit too soon?" Mirabelle sneered, her voice lowering to a whisper. "Men change, especially men like Kallum. He can have anything he wants, so do you really think he''d be loyal to you?" Calista remained silent.


    Mirabelle continued in a disdainful tone, "Think about how much he despised you back then, and how much he values you now. It''s just like how much he valued me before, and what is his attitude toward me now? What has happened to me will be what''s awaiting you!" Calista gave her a quizzical look.


    Roet


    Mirabelle, however, put on a pitiful expression. "I truly feel sorry for you, who is trapped in Kallum''s affection. He used to be the same with me. Whatever I wanted, I would only have to say it once, and he would always manage to get it for me, no matter the cost. He''s handsome, powerful, and ardently passionate, making him hard for any woman to r¨¦sist. But when a man like that turns cold-hearted, he bes absolutely ruthless. And now, you''re actually marrying him? Honestly, Calista, I''m already feeling sorry for your married life. Your family ispletely dependent on your inws, and you yourself have no power at all. Who knows how far you can go just by relying on that elusive thing called love..."


    "You needn''t concern yourself about my affairs!"


    At that moment, Kallum suddenly appeared with a burning gaze. If looks could kill, Mirabelle would have long been dead.


    Darn it, this woman is indeed as pretentious as before, even daring to fill Callie''s mind with negativity behind my back!


    Kallum''s arrival caught Mirabelle off


    guard, sending her into a state of panic. However, Kallum didn''t even nce her way. Instead, he took


    Calista into his arms and, righ,


    front of Mirabelle, kissed Calista passionately on the lips.


    After their kiss, he firmly said, "Callie, don''t listen to her nonsense. My feelings for you are different..."


    He furrowed his brows, not particrly adept at expressing romantic sentiments because all his emotions were disyed for all to see.


    "Don''t worry, I trust you."


    Calista''s reaction was rather nonchnt. With a smile, she addressed Mirabelle, who looked pale. "Thank you for conveying Quincy''s request. I must admit, you''ve piqued my curiosity. I think I''ll go." "Why waste time talking to her? Someone, show them out!"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum was genuinely furious. If it hadn''t been for his principle of notying a hand on a woman, he would have never allowed Mirabelle to just walk away in one piece.


    Mirabelle also knew that she had inadvertently stirred up trouble again. Without daring to utter a single word, she hurriedly followed the housekeeper out.


    It wasn''t until she stepped out of Fairchild Manor''s gate that indignation and resentment surged within her heart.


    "Just wait and see! I won''t let you two be together!"


    Thinking of Calista''s eptance to the Wolford family''s invitation, she felt a bit smug. "I''m sure the two of you won''t be the same after that."


    On the day of the Wolford family''s


    banquet, Kallum originally didn''t want Calista to attend. However, Calista insisted on going. Apart from Benedict''s sake, she had a vague idea of who Quincy''s new patron might be. If her guess was correct, this visit would confirm it,


    However, Calista didn''t want Kallum to go with her, so she tried to dissuade him.


    "I won''t infect others. I assure you, it''s safe for me to go. But in your case, visiting crowded ces can be risky, do you understand?"


    In the car, Calista attempted to negotiate with him.


    Kallum gritted his teeth. "Then I''ll wait for you in the car!"


    Seeing his resolute attitude, Calista had no choice but to agree. With Kallum around, her safety was also guaranteed.

 Chapter 299 A Trap

    After Calista stepped out of the car, she realized the party had already been in full swing for a while. After entering, she nced around and was surprised to find that everyone there was young. The moment Calista arrived, Quincy immediately abandoned the conversation she was engaged in and came over with a smile.


    "Callie! I thought you weren''ting!"


    Calista squinted her eyes, finding it hard to recognize Quincy. Thetter had sexy short hair, heavy makeup, and deep cleavage, wearing a skirt that barely reached her thighs.


    Does Yelena even care about her? Quincy''s current appearance can easily pass as a top escort in a nightclub!


    Seeing Calista''s gaze, Quincy pushed her chest out and coquettishly said, "Am I scaring you? I got breast augmentation and liposuction in Hestrya. Do you think I look beautiful now?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Her tone was casual, as if their previous conflicts didn''t exist at all. Calista''s scrutinizing gaze only made Quincy giggle.


    "Don''t look at me like that. If it weren''t for you, I wouldn''t be living this good life now. No one controls me anymore, and I have plenty of money to spend! Much better than being ''Ms. Stafford''." Calista didn''t miss the hint of ruthlessness in Quincy''s smile as she spoke. She cut to the chase. "I heard you found a big backer. Who is it?"


    Quincy chuckled, her eyes wandering over Calista''s figure.


    "They say keep it mysterious when you have a backer, right? Well, he''s in the room upstairs. The party downstairs is so boring. Want to join our private party?"


    Calista suddenly realized it was a trap aimed at her. However, with Kallum and the bodyguards just outside, she had nothing to fear.


    "Let''s go take a look then."


    Quincy shed a mysterious smile. "You''re going to love it."


    With that, she led Calista through a winding corridor before reaching a room. Upon opening the door, an odd, sour smell wafted in the air. The room was filled with smoke, causing Calista to furrow her brows slightly. She seemed to have smelled this odor somewhere before.


    As they walked in, even Calista was slightly shocked despite her usualposure. There were seventeen or eighteen pairs of men and women in the room, most of whom were barely dressed. Some were vaping, while others were engaging in inappropriate acts. They werepletely lost in their own world as if they were in their own beds!


    Calista suddenly understood what kind of party this was. They were taking drugs as a group!


    Drugs are banned in the country, yet Quincy is openly hosting a marijuana party at home? Does she have a death wish?


    "How is it? Shocking, right? Do you know? Taking a hit before having sex is like being in heaven," Quincy said, lighting a cigarette and blowing smoke rings at Calista. "Callie, want to give it a try?"


    Calista instinctively took a step back. There were also other drugs mixed in the air. She had just been overwhelmed by the smell of smoke.


    As she stepped back, two men blocked her path.


    "Ms. Calista, this is a private party. To prevent idents, no one who enters can leave until the party is over!"


    It was only then that Calista realized


    what Quincy meant. She had assembled a group of wealthy and influential people here to engage in debauchery and then brought her in. Those people must have brought bodyguards to ensure their actions inside didn''t leak out. So, while it was easy for Calista toe in, it


    wouldn''t be so simple to leave.


    So Quincy doesn''t want to confront me directly and instead recruited several influential people to take the lead?


    "You really went to great lengths to keep me around."


    Calista looked around at the people in the room, whose gazes were subtly fixed on her, seemingly being wary about something. Of course, if Calista left now and started spreading rumors outside, their reputations would go down the drain when outsiders came in and caught them red-handed.


    How could Quincy bring in someone who clearly isn''t the ying type? And she even wants them to take action.


    "Don''t say it like that," Quincy said nonchntly I''m just helping you test Kallum''s sincerity. I wonder if a couple of hourster when Kallum finds out you''ve been in this room for so long, what will he think? Will he be as steadfast in his affection for you as before, or will he abandon you?"


    Quincy smirked triumphantly. "Of course, you can also choose to call him now and have hime to take you away. But with so many people here, if things get out of hand, the Fairchild family will inevitably make several new enemies. After all, those whoe here are not ordinary people."


    Quincyid bare her scheme, putting Calista in a difficult position where any choice she made would be wrong.


    Calista finally hesitated. In her previous life, Quincy''s final backer was clearly someone from the Ingram family. But if it was him, he would never have thought of such a dirty and tricky scheme... Calista carefully observed the people in the room, realizing their identities were extremely sensitive. Yet, they were here. The identity of the person behind the scenes was bing obvious. "So, is your new patron Jason Wendell?"


    Her tone was hesitant and somewhat annoyed. If it was Jason, then things would be a bit tricky.


    But other than the fearless rich and powerful Jason, she couldn''t think of anyone else who would dare to host such a party with so many people here.

 Chapter 300 A Madman

    Calista couldn''t help but be on high alert because you never knew what a lunatic might do next! "How did you know?"


    Quincy widened her eyes in surprise. I hadn''t mentioned her association with Jason to anyone, so how did Calista know? Before she could finish her sentence, a mesmerizing male voice echoed from the depths of the room. "Well... I''m delighted. Am I really this famous in Horington?"


    The speaker was a man whose clothes and hair were disheveled. His face was decent enough, but due to his indulgences, his cheeks were gaunt, and his eyes were a little swollen.


    At this moment, he stared at Calista with shining eyes and eximed, "What a beauty! Truly a beauty! It''s no wonder I called so many people here to witness! Darling,e here. I promise to make you so happy you''ll feel like you''re flying!" Sure enough, it was him!


    The moment Calista saw Jason, all the haze caused by drugs vanished instantly. She squinted her eyes, observing this famous and wealthy yboy with a cold demeanor.


    If she had to give him a nickname, it would be "madman." There was nothing he wouldn''t dare to do. He was a reckless madman who never considered the consequences!


    She wouldn''t forget that in a few years, Jason would die of a sexually transmitted disease due to his promiscuous behavior. But that wasn''t why she was here!


    Calista cursed inwardly. Based on Harvey''s rtionship with the Ingram family and her memories from her previous life, she had thought that she would meet Marcus, a wolf in sheep''s clothing, here to gain some insight and seek revenge. But she never expected Quincy to have attached herself to Jason. Indeed, she couldn''t trust her memories from her previous life anymore.


    "Do you know who I am?"


    Calista took a few steps back. Even though she knew that saying such things to this group of people who had lost all their reason wouldn''t have much effect, she immediately revealed her identity.


    "I am Kallum Fairchild''s soon-to-be wife. Jason, I know you fear nothing, but for the sake of a woman who has been used by someone else, if you provoke the Fairchild family, your father won''t be able to protect you!"


    If it were anyone else, hearing Calista''s background would surely make them think twice before acting rashly. But Jason?


    The moreposed Calista appeared, the more enthusiastic Jason became! He even praised Quincy, "Well done! The woman you brought this time is truly exquisite! Kallum''s woman? Fantastic! I can hardly wait!" Seeing Jason''s interest in Calista, Quincy pretended to be annoyed.


    "Jason, take it easy. She''s Kallum''s sweetheart!"This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    "Sweetheart? Haha! She''s just a woman. If Kallum wants her, I''ll give him ten or twenty more. But this one... I want her!"


    Calista inwardly cursed her luck. No


    matter how many schemes she


    came up with, when faced with a scoundrel, there was nothing she could do. And when she checked her phone just now, she found that there was no signal! In other words, if Jason forced himself on her tonight, those outside might not even know.


    Despite experiencing something unexpected for the first time, Calista remained calm. She knew that once she panicked, she would lose control of the situation.


    "Don''te any closer, or I''ll kill you!"


    Jasonughed at Calista''s words. "Hahaha, did you hear that? This girl says she''ll kill us!"


    Everyone around wasughing, but the look in Calista''s eyes was growing colder by the moment.


    Initially, neither Calista nor Kallum paid much attention to this small gathering. After all, it was a society ruled byw now. Even if Quincycked brains, she wouldn''t dare do anything outrageous on her own turf, unless she had a death wish. But when Calista''s call couldn''t get through, Kallum''s expression changed instantly.


    It seemed that this gathering wasn''t as ordinary as they thought. Calista was in trouble.


    Kallum clenched his phone and ordered coldly, "Quintus, surround the vi with people. Until I find Callie, no one can leave! Gunner, let''s go in!"


    With Kallum''smand, the people in the cars all moved. To prevent others from getting a chance to approach him, Kallum was surrounded by eight people as they marched imposingly into the banquet hall.


    Seeing them approaching aggressively, many puzzled guests spontaneously backed away. They didn''t know what was happening, but they were all frightened by the murderous intent emanating from Kallum. "Who is that? So scary. Could it be someone seeking revenge?"


    "You don''t recognize him?" A man whispered cautiously in her ear, "Remember the one who killed your cousin some time ago? You''ve forgotten who he is?"


    The woman''s face turned pale instantly, and she didn''t dare to make a sound.


    Since those who came here had some connection to the Wolford family, they were all afraid when they learned of Kallum''s arrival. After all, although it was Calista who had intervened in the matter, without the support of the Fairchild family, Harvey wouldn''t have died so quickly.


    Seeing Kallum''s appearance, they feared that he wouldn''t stop after killing Harvey, and they would be implicated as well. Otherwise, why would Kallume to such a small and intimate gathering?


    The vi wasn''t particrlyrge, so after Kallum stormed in, it was as if a shark charging into a shoal of fish The music stopped abruptly, and since the host of the party wasz nowhere to be seen, the guests who hade here were scared into silence.


    "Where is she?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 301 Where Is Calista

    Kallum frowned impatiently. How is it that there isn''t even someone to inquire here?


    Hearing his displeased tone, the short, chubby middle-aged butler, Normansqueezed through. "Mr. Kallum, wee! Wee! I apologize for noting to wee you sooner."


    Kallum snorted coldly, his sharp eyes piercing through him. "I''m asking you. Where is Calista?"


    "I-I don''t know..."


    Before the man could finish his sentence, Kallum grabbed him by the cor and lifted him up.


    "You''re telling me you didn''t know when someone entered this house?"


    The rising anger in his tone sent shivers down everyone''s spine. At this moment, a familiar woman rushed out, trembling as she spoke. "Mr. Kallum, I-I know! I just saw Calista, and she was with a man..." Kallum quickly let go of Norman, turning to Mirabelle. Something told him that this was a conspiracy.


    However, is it possible? With the barely surviving Yost family, coupled with the powerless Wolford family, will they dare toy hands on Callie?


    "Then lead the way!"


    "Yes... yes." Mirabelle dared not dy, jogging ahead. The other guests quickly made their way, eager to avoid being in her path.


    Kallum followed Mirabelle. To ensure his safety, the men behind him discreetly loaded their guns. Kallum wanted to see how this small ce had swallowed up someone belonging to him.


    Along the way, although Mirabelle was terrified, the fact that this matter had "nothing to do" with her bolstered her courage a bit.


    "Mr. Kallum, I truly pity you! You might not be aware, but Calista was taken away by a man shortly after entering here..."C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    Seeing Kallum''s silence, Mirabelle gritted her teeth and continued, "Calista isn''t the same person she used to be. Many people outside are saying that she''s the most sessful and scheming woman in the city. From being your fianc¨¦e, to bing the Fairchild family''s goddaughter, to marrying you, how long did it take her? Mr. Kallum, I think..."


    "I think I don''t need you to tell me what kind of person she is."


    Kallum''s ominous voice rang out, causing Mirabelle to freeze in ce. She could feel the cold muzzle of a gun pressed firmly against the back of her head! Mirabelle gulped nervously. She hadn''t expected Kallum to bring a gun. But then again, as the head of the Fairchild family, how could he not carry one? Seeing Mirabelle finally quiet down, Kallum sneered, "Move!"


    Mirabelle didn''t dare utter another word and obediently led the way.


    However, Kallum wouldn''t trust her just like that. He signaled to Gunner on the side. At once, Gunner took two men and went elsewhere.


    Although Kallum was sure that Mirabelle would lead him to witness a drama rted to Calista, he decided to split his forces to prevent idents.


    In front of the closed doors, the group stopped. Looking scared, Mirabelle said, "This is it. I don''t know anything. I just saw Calistae in here!" She had indeed seen it, so everything she said was true.


    Kallum didn''t bother to listen to her nonsense any further. He waved his hand, and someone behind him kicked the door open.


    Suddenly, an unpleasant, carnal scent filled the air. A sense of foreboding crept into Kallum''s heart. He looked over and saw a sight that made his blood boil with rage. Seven or eight men were crowded onto a single bed, and Calista was right in the middle of them, doing things that were difficult to even speak of!


    "Calista" seemed delirious,pletely immersed in carnal pleasures. The scene was incredibly debauched.


    The intrusion startled the men, who began to panic.


    Seeing this scene, Mirabelle screamed in shock. At this moment, Norman also arrived with some guests who were friendly with the Wolford family.


    "Mr. Kallum, this is where


    distinguished guests reside, you


    cannot..." But before he could finish his sentence, he saw the extremely debauched scene in the room. Those behind him also saw


    Tel


    it Why


    are they all naked? Is this an orgy?


    Someone eximed, "Isn''t that the soon-to-be daughter-inw of the Fairchild family?"


    A ripple of shock spread through the crowd! Many subconsciously looked over, indeed recognizing "Calista''s" face. Calista is actually doing such things before her wedding?


    "Shut up!"


    Kallum was truly p*ssed off. His eyes turned red, ring fiercely at the approaching people. Is the Wolford family''s intention to tarnish Callie''s reputation, preventing her from marrying into the Fairchild family?


    Mirabelle was already stunned by


    the scene before her. She never expected that Quincy''s supposed gift for Calista would be so intense. The timing of Norman''s arrival with the guests was impable. Calista was doomed.


    Mirabelle quickly closed the door, putting on a pretense of being a good person. She anxiously said, "No no... Calista isn''t inside. She didn''t enter this room previously.


    These attempts to gloss over the


    truth only provoked silent derision


    among the crowd. Prior to this, they had feared and respected the Fairchild family, fully aware of how Wan Hong had met his end. But now, Kallum was publicly humiliated by his fianc¨¦e, who had clearly cheated on him with not one but a few men. This was certainly turning out to be an interesting spectacle.


    Moreover, there were many of them. The Fairchilds couldn''t kill them all, could they? With that thought in mind, they grew bolder.

 Chapter 302 Not On Purpose

    "Who would''ve thought? That woman who just came in is so horny. Even though she has a husband, she''s still insatiable."


    "No wonder she disappeared as soon as she got here. Turns out she''s here."


    "But that woman seems a bit delirious..."


    "She''s probably been yed until she''s lost her mind."


    The malicious whispers made Kallum feel sick. He didn''t care if he got his hands dirty and angrily yelled at Mirabelle, "Get out of the way!"


    Mirabelle''s eyes lit up. If Mr. Kallum is this furious, will he start a massacre? That would be best! However, she still put on a face of earnest persuasion.


    "Mr. Kallum, don''t be impulsive! I believe Calista didn''t do it on purpose!"


    Kallum was utterly repulsed by her. Why had I only seen Mirabelle as vain before, and not as fake?


    Immersed in her act, Mirabelle didn''t notice the murderous look in Kallum''s eyes and continued, "Mr. Kallum, give Calista a chance. Don''t be impulsive. Murder is against thew!" "Yes! Mr. Kallum, calm down. We''re at the Wolford residence."


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Three gunshots rang out, followed by a chorus of screams. Kallum, unable to bear it any longer, fired three shots into the ceiling, silencing the world around him.


    His menacing eyes bore into Mirabelle as if looking at a dead person.


    "I told you to get lost!"


    Terrified, Mirabelle crouched down with her hands over her head. Kallum''s re reminded her of the time by the pool when he wouldn''t let anyone save her. He wanted her dead. The feeling of being so close to death was unbearable. With her legs shaking, Mirabelle moved away.


    As she had finally moved, Kallum''s rage subsided a bit. He kicked the door open, ready to see who dared use Calista''s face to ruin her reputation.


    Hearing the gunshots, Quincy was momentarily stunned, then sheughed out loud. "Fantastic! As expected, Kallum couldn''t handle the shock and started killing people!"


    Upon hearing Quincy, the initially tensed Calista asked in confusion, "What have you done?"


    "It''s simple!" Quincy leaned against Jason, smiling seductively, "I had someone provoke Kallum and then let him see his beloved fianc¨¦e other men! And I called a lot of people to


    to watch. Unless Kallum kills them all, by tomorrow everyone in Horington will know how promiscuous you are!"


    As she said this, Quincy''s eyes turned frighteningly cold. Because of Calista, everyone in Horington looked at me as if I were filth. I might be in the spotlight now, but no matter how glorious I am, I will always be a mistress. If I''m tainted, why should Calista stay clean?


    "So, you had someone impersonate me?"


    Calista showed a peculiar expression, which Quincy, in her pride, failed to notice.


    "Yes, we had her face surgically altered in Hestrya! Plus, she''s drugged, so Kallum won''t get any answers from her. Maybe he won''t even ask. Did you hear the gunshots? Perhaps he killed her on the spot! And his actions will decide your fate, my dear sister..."


    She continued, "If Kallum kills that


    woman, then unfortunately, after Mr.


    Jason has had his fun, you''ll have to die too. If Mr Kallum takes her away, even better! We can use you to exchange for that woman, ruining your reputation. How could the


    Fairchild family ever marry you then? Even if you run out to clear your name, who would believe you? Either way, your reputation is ruined. Be grateful you came here. At least you can die knowing why. If you hadn''te, I would''ve had more interesting tricks for you! My only fear is that you might not be able to handle it."


    In essence, Quincy could do everything she couldn''t do in the past now with Jason''s support.


    Even though Jason was a bit entric, he wasn''t a fool. Though he had done this, what could the Fairchild family do but suffer in silence?


    If Kallum acted impulsively and killed someone, he''d face the death penalty in Chanaea.


    Even if he didn''t, once the news of Calista''s orgy spread, the scandal alone would keep Kallum busy. How could he possibly deal with Jason?


    In any case, it was a great opportunity for revenge against Kallum, who was so detestable.


    Jason patted Quincy''s head approvingly. "Your ideas are always so interesting. I''m eager to see Kallum''s reaction. Do you think he killed her or took her away?"Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    "It doesn''t matter; we''ll find out soon. With so many people around, Kallum wouldn''t be able to tell that the woman wasn''t Calista. Even if he did, he''d take her away first to protect the Fairchild family''s reputation..."


    Quincy snorted. "Mr. Jason, don''t worry about it now. Kallum came so quickly. Even though this is a secret room, he might find it. To avoidplications, you should deal with this woman first. Haven''t you wanted her for a long time?"


    Jason nodded excitedly. His desire for Calista was one reason he indulged Quincy. He motioned for his bodyguards to approach. The others in the room, numbed by drugs, were ready to watch the show. They needed more stimtion to keep their dulled senses entertained.

 Chapter 303 Cripple You

    Forced to retreat, Calista chuckled softly. "I mustmend you foring up with such a thorough n. Seems like all you''ve been thinking abouttely is how to harm me. You didn''t think of anything else, right?"


    Calista''s ability to remain calm at this point infuriated Quincy to no end.


    "Yes! Not only do I want to ruin your innocence, but I also want to cripple you for life! You''ve brought me to this point, and there hasn''t been a day I haven''t wanted to kill you! In my n, your situation will only get worse. There''s no limit to how miserable you can be!" She snorted triumphantly, "Are you ready to face what''sing? Even if Kallum tears this ce apart, he won''t find you! Whatever he decides, you''re at his mercy!"


    Calista wiggled her finger. "There''s another oue. As long as I can appear before the public, your schemes will fall apart on their own!"


    Quincy sneered, retreating with Jason. "I know you''re skilled, but do you think I''ll give you that chance? The doors are sealed from the outside. Even if Kallum wants to find you, he''ll be led away by my people. ept your fate!"


    At that moment, a bodyguard lunged viciously at Calista from behind. But the next second, he screamed in agony, falling to his knees with two silver needles piercing his eyelids.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Seizing the opportunity, Calista grabbed the knife from the guard''s waist and darted behind someone else watching the scene, holding the knife to their throat. In imminent danger, her actions were as swift as lightning. "You want me to ept my fate? I''ll only do so after I''ve killed everyone here!"


    After Kallum burst in, the men were still frantically dressing.


    "What''s going on?" they demanded of Norman. "We were told we can have fun with her however we want. How did so many people barge in?"


    Their answer came in the form of Kallum''s men''s iron fists!


    How dare they tarnish Ms. Calista''s reputation? They are practically asking for death!


    Dragging the still-dazed woman from the bed, Kallum demanded, "Where''s Callie?"


    Clearly high on drugs, the woman babbled nonsensically, "Callie? I...I''m Callie..."


    Norman hadn''t expected Kallum to recognize her as someone else at this moment, especially since they''d found someone with Calista''s figure!


    He hurried over and said, "Mr. Kallum, if you need to handle family matters, please do it elsewhere. There are people watching!"


    Kallum sneered, tossing aside the drugged woman like trash, his icy gaze falling on the middle-aged man.


    "I almost forgot about you."


    With a wave of his hand, Gunner appeared behind Norman. With a kick, Norman fell to his knees with his legs snapped.


    He let out a bloodcurdling scream, shocked that Kallum would act so recklessly in someone else''s territory, and in front of so many spectators. Does he not care about the Fairchild family''s reputation at all? "Ahhh! Mr. Kallum! Even if you kill me, this won''t be covered up..." Norman was in excruciating pain, his eyes filled with hatred. His back was soaked with sweat.


    Punctuating his words were two resounding ps from Gunner.


    "That''s not Ms. Calista. You shouldn''t make false usations!"


    Seeing Kallum going mad, many guests wanted to flee, but Ryder and his men blocked their path from behind.


    "Without Mr. Kallum''s orders, no one is allowed to leave!"


    He ignored those guests who had paled with fright. Approaching Kallum, Ryder said, "Mr. Kallum, I''ve searched everywhere, but I haven''t found Ms. Calista in any room."


    He paused for a moment, then added, "However, theyout of this house is quite peculiar. There''s definitely a secret room somewhere."


    Hearing this, Kallum worried even


    more, thinking, that Calista might have been taken to a secret room unexpectedly. They had


    underestimated this trap set


    Quincy. For her to dare do s


    thing, she must have found new backing. The only question was whether her backer coul&withstand his wrath!


    Kallum red fiercely at the groaning butler on the floor. "Interrogate him. If he doesn''t answer, break a finger. And let those outside who enjoy watching themotione in and see the consequences of lying!" The entire floor was turned upside down by Kallum. Most of those who wanted to leave were blocked by therge iron gate, not knowing what those big shots were up to.


    In a corner on the second floor, a silenced gun was aimed at Calista.


    "Oh no, did I miss?"


    The seven or eight people who had been here watching the scene were now being protected in a corner by their bodyguards because Jason was just too crazy. A moment ago, the person Calista was holding hostage wasn''t exactly a nobody, yet Jason had just fired at her without hesitation. Although the shot missed, it was still too much!


    "Mr. Jason, what do you mean by this? We came here to have fun, how can you do this?"


    One of the startled guests, now more sober, questioned him with a mix of dissatisfaction and fear, only to be met with Jason''s indifferent gaze.


    Jason, who was in a somewhat


    delirious state,ughed and said, "I


    had no choice. My little kitten has grown ws. Didn''t you see how my men got scratched when they approached her? With women like this, have experience-only by breaking their legs will they behave! So I had to aim for her leg, but who knew I''d miss? Besides, don''t you think this cat-and-mouse game is fun?"

 Chapter 304 Play A Game

    The others were clearly displeased with his answer and were about to say more when a gun suddenly pointed at them.


    "We''re all here to have fun, right? You don''t want to ruin the mood, do you?" Jason asked with a crazed smile.


    Being inexplicably held at gunpoint, the bodyguards of the others quickly drew their weapons.


    "Mr. Jason, what is the meaning of this?" Most of their faces turned unpleasant from fright. They hade here because it was supposed to be safe and out of respect for Jason, but this madman dared to point a gun at them?


    Seeing that Jason''s irrationality was about to cause an internal conflict, Quincy quickly intervened with a smile, "You''ve misunderstood. Mr. Jason is inviting you all to join in a game!"


    Quincy took the gun from Jason and nced at Calista, who was on the other side.


    She scoffed, "Didn''t you hear what Mr. Jason said? Since Calista won''t cooperate willingly, let''s y with her! From now on, we''ll y a game of shooting the beauty. Whoever hits Calista''s leg gets a prize-like being the first to kiss Mr. Kallum''s woman!" Under normal circumstances, they wouldn''t dare to be so bold, but everyone here, except Quincy and Calista, had taken some drugs. Things they wouldn''t normally dare to do or even think about doing were now bing temptations under the influence of their desires. Jason didn''t react when Quincy took the gun from him, indicating he might genuinely want to y. So, the previous tension quickly dissipated. After all, it wasn''t them who had been shot for protecting Calista earlier.


    "Really? We get a chance too?" They had initially thought Jason had imed Calista for himself.


    "Of course, everyone whoes here is a friend. We can share anything and everything." Quincy reassured them smoothly.


    The shock from seeing blood quickly faded, and some started to eye Calista with lustful expressions.


    The man nearest to Quincy took the gun from her with a grin, rubbing his fat chin. "Mr. Kallum''s woman? That''s something we wouldn''t dare even think about outside. But is it safe here?"


    "It''s safe!" Quincy guaranteed. "Even if Kallum didn''t leave with that woman and insists on finding Calista, my people will ''confess under duress'' and ''be forced'' to tell him Calista''s whereabouts... In any case, Kallum will leave soon. And ying with his woman right under his nose. Doesn''t that sound thrilling?"


    Quincy''s words were like adding fuel to the fire, making everyone eager to join in.


    Calista took a deep breath. She was grateful for the numerous sofas and beds here.


    She also had to thank Quincy for resenting her too much. From the start, Quincy never intended to kill her. Instead, she wanted to capture her and make her life a living hell.


    Now, they wanted to y a cat-and-mouse game with her.


    A cat-and-mouse game, huh? Interesting! I hope they can keep smilingter.


    With that in mind, Calista suddenly dashed to the other side. There were two soft thuds as bullets hit the wall, producing a different sound than usual.


    Calista squinted. She had found it!


    Hiding behind a sofa, she grabbed a bottle of strong vodka from under a table and smashed it against the bullet-ridden wall. The room was instantly filled with the smell of alcohol. Quincy''s expression changed. "Sh*t! She''s going to set a fire!"


    Right after Quincy said that, a lighter that had been unknowingly left on the table was tossed aside. The me ignited instantly, spreading across the room and climbing up the wallpaper, generating a thick cloud of smoke. "D*mn it!" Quincy cursed in anger. "You think you can force me to open the venttion and let you escape?"


    While instructing others to put out the fire, she sheered, "Don''t be naive. Mr. Jason, stop ying games. Sox what if you got pricked a few times? If she goes blind, so be it. Just have her captured directly! None of the electronic devices here work I don''t know if Kallum has left yet, but let''s not create more trouble!" C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    Jason, still somewhat dissatisfied, muttered, "I haven''t had enough fun yet!"


    Nevertheless, he tossed the gun to his bodyguard beside him. "I''m too drunk to shoot straight. You do it. Just don''t hit anything vital. I don''t want a dead ything."


    The bodyguard hesitated but then


    aimed in the direction where Calista


    was hiding. Amidst the thick smoke, some were putting out the fire, while Calista took cover behind tables and chairs The dim lighting should have been the perfect disguise, but unfortunately, the room wasn''t big enough, and any movement she


    made would give her away!


    With a loud "bang," Calista was forced back by a bullet as soon as she peeked out. Unlike Jason and his druggedpanions, a trained bodyguard wouldn''t miss.


    "Come out. No matter how hard you struggle, you can''t escape."


    Quincy pressed a venttion button, and the smoke quickly dispersed. The people fighting the fire had to use water, taking considerable effort since there were no fire extinguishers and they couldn''t leave the room. On the other side, hearing Kallum''s threat to break his fingers, Norman finally broke into a cold sweat and confessed.


    "She was taken away! Ms. Wolford took her!"


    Kallum raised his hand, signaling his


    men to stop. The ones searching for the secret room returned


    disappointed. "Sir, this building''s design is very strange. It can''t be measured using conventional architecture. We know there''s a secret room, but we can''t determine which floor it''s on."

 Chapter 305 The Secret Room

    "Let''s not search anymore then."


    Kallum''s words made Norman secretly pleased but also somewhat disdainful. The secret room was previously Harvey''s study, a ce designed for storing confidential materials. Once the door was sealed, it was almost impossible to find easily. Otherwise, Harvey wouldn''t have spent millions to build a secret room in the first ce.


    Yet, through his sobs, he insisted, "It''s true, she was taken away in secret! I swear, I''m not lying to you!"


    Kallum stood up abruptly, looking at him with a deathly cold gaze.


    "Had I not kept this ce under surveince, hearing you say that would have probably sent me off in a frantic search."


    Norman was taken aback. He hadn''t expected Kallum would be this careful.


    Irritated, Kallum tugged at his tie. His violet eyes were filled with deep unease. He couldn''t wait any longer. If they couldn''t find her, there was a simple solution. "Evacuate everyone and set the ce on fire. Burn it down!"


    Kallum''smand made Norman utterly shocked! Burn it down? Surely, Kallum won''t dare to do that. He can''t possiblymit arson in someone else''s home.


    But Kallum''s men, except for two who stayed to protect him, all went out. The guests, who had been trapped, seized the opportunity to rush outside, but they couldn''t leave because their cars were in the yard! Kallum wouldn''t really burn down this five-story mansion, would he? What about our cars?


    To quickly meet Kallum''s demands, his men gathered the fuel from the cars in the yard, making it easier to set the fire.


    This five-story mansion held Harvey''s collection of antiques and cultural relics umted over many years. It wasn''t just a house!


    More importantly, what about the people inside if Kallum set the house on fire?


    By now, the first floor was gradually catching fire. Norman was frantic, fearing the people in the secret room would be burned alive. He wondered if it was toote to tell Kallum where they were.


    Unfortunately, Kallum''s aura was too intimidating. Every time Norman wanted to confess, he chickened out. He felt that if he tried to run, Kallum would burn him first! Thinking of his own life and Quincy''s threats, he hesitated and ultimately chose to y dead.C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    "Okay, hiding any longer is pointless... Ny-Two, are you doing this on purpose? You missed so many shots!" Jason''s voice was tinged with annoyance.


    The bodyguard, not daring to hold back any longer, quickly promised, "She''s too cunning. This time, I''ll definitely hit her!"


    Just then, the house rm suddenly went off with a ring level one alert that echoed throughout, even inside the secret room!


    "What''s happening?" Quincy, the new resident, was just as confused as everyone else.


    "It should be the fire rm. It only goes off for major fires..."


    Before the person could finish, water started spraying from the ceiling. It couldn''t be turned off. Quincy hadn''t expected there to be a sprinkler system here.


    "What''s going on? Is there a fire? But we can''t go out now..." Quincy was stumped. To prevent Calista from using a satellite phone, all electronic devices were cut off, and she couldn''t contact the outside world.


    "Should we go out and check? What if there really is a fire?" The guests lost interest in the party, worried about being burned alive if a fire broke out. They no longer cared about ying games.


    Someone pointed at a wall. "What''s with this wall? It''s so thin. I can see the glow of the fire outside!"


    Quincy and Jason followed his gaze and saw numerous holes in one of the previously sealed walls, with some holes piercing through to show the fire outside!


    Quincy suddenly realized why


    Calista had set fire to that wall and


    kept drawing their shots to it. Since they aimed for Calista''s legs, the wall was now riddled with bullet holes initially, the charred wall wasn''t noticeable, but now it was emitting firelight. Calista had known all along that this wall was fake, made of ss wool instion!


    "Hurry! Where''s Calista? Catch her! She''s trying to escape!" Quincy''s urgent words merely elicited a snort from Jason. "This is the second floor. Where could she run to?"


    Despite his words, they instinctively


    ??


    searched for Calista''s figure. With the ceiling constantly spraying water and everyone distracted by the firelight, they had lost sight of her. Now looking at the sofas and beds, they had no idea where she might be hiding.


    "We should leave! There''s a huge fire below! We can see the mes from the second floor!" someone said fearfully.


    Quincy forced herself to stay calm. "Don''t worry. We have security. If there''s an emergency, the police and ambnces will arrive first! Have your bodyguards help search. Even if we need to leave, we must catch Calista first. Otherwise, she be a threat!"


    The seven or eight individuals who were reluctantly dragged into this mess had no choice but to assist them in their search.


    "That woman is so sneaky. In such a small space, where could she have gone?"

 Chapter 306 The Fire Blazes

    As the seconds ticked by, Quincy''s anxiety intensified dramatically.


    Has Kallum already left? He must''ve; he wouldn''t tolerate a woman causing turmoil while masquerading as Calista. And even if he had chosen to stay, surely the butler would have ushered him out to protect his loved ones. After all, his wife and children are in my hands. Quincy''s thoughts then drifted to the fire engulfing the lower floors.


    Could this ze have something to do with Kallum? If it isn''t his doing, then surely the butler would have sought me out by now, wouldn''t he? Why aren''t the police here yet?


    With each moment that passed, her sense of panic escted. her carefully orchestrated n had been thrown into disarray by an unexpected fire.


    Suddenly, a loud crash resounded as the wine rack toppled over. While the attention of those present was diverted, Calista saw her chance and dashed toward freedom. Quincy, however, was the only one who noticed her fleeting figure.


    She shouted urgently, "Quick, grab her! She''s trying to run!"


    Meanwhile, Kallum stood transfixed by the advancing mes, his heart pounding with anxiety as he scanned the area intensely. Where''s Callie? Where could she be hidden in this vast house?


    Just then, Gunner pointed urgently toward a melting wall on the second floor and eximed, "Mr. Kallum! Look at that wall, it''s melting!"


    "You can''t run, Calista!" Quincy managed to snatch a gun from Jason''s grasp and aimed it at Calista, firing several shots as thetter darted toward the exit. She had a sudden foreboding that if Calista sessfully made her escape, the repercussions would be dire.


    At that crucial juncture, Calista''s muscles tensed as she gathered every ounce of her strength and hurled herself against the soundproof wall, which was already significantly weakened. The dualyers of battered wood splintered under the impact. Shielding her head with her arms, she leaped down to the second floor.


    As the mes roared, consuming everything in their path, Calista recalled theyout of the house from her previous life. She knew there was awn below, clear of any hazards, which emboldened her reckless leap. However, the ferocity of the fire was unexpected, and she braced herself for potential injuries.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Hearing a disturbance, Kallum instinctively looked up just in time to see a figure descending. Before he could clearly discern who it was, his instincts propelled him forward, and he caught the person in his arms. "Found you!" His voice resonated with surprise and palpable relief.


    Upon realizing Calista was unharmed, he embraced her tightly, a deep sigh of relief escaping him. "D*mn it, you scared me to death!"


    Calista, still slightly dazed, murmured, "Kallum?"


    She hadn''t anticipated that at such a perilous moment, she would be caught by someone let alone Kallum.


    He looked at her sternly, his heart racing, "You ungrateful little... Who else but me would care about you this much?"


    Gradually, Calista rxed into his


    embrace, her arms wrapping around him, feeling an overwhelming sense of affection and security. "Thank


    you..." she whispered, overwhelmet


    by emotion. Having often relied solely on herself, being rescued when she least expected it stirred profound feelings within her.


    As they left the chaos behind, Kallum carried her in his arms, his posture erect and his stride confident. He seemed to glow even in the night''s darkness. "Do we still need to say thanks?" he chuckled warmly, holding her close, reluctant to let go. "We''re husband and wife, you silly girl..."


    Calista nestled into his embrace, murmuring a content "Mm."


    The Fairchild family''s bodyguards, relieved to see thedy of the house safe, turned their attention back to the fiery ordeal. "Mr. Kallum," one of them inquired, "should we continue with the fire? People are still inside!"


    Just then, a desperate shout echoed from the second floor, "Help! Why is the fire so huge? Someone, pleasee and save me! There are still people alive!"


    As the ambnce was dyed, a paramedic approached Kallum, wiping sweat from his brow. "Mr. Kallum, lives are at stake. Please, let us attend to the injured first!"


    Calista tugged at Kallum''s clothing,


    whispering something that made


    him chuckle. He nced back at the


    ¨¦l


    engulfed mansion, raising an eyebrow Of course, we have to save them," he dered. "Even though some folks gathered to indulge in drugs and identally set this ce on fire, we still need to rescue them. And while we''re at it, let''s make sure to collect evidence. We can''t let these matters slide!"


    Kallum''s deration carried a wealth of implications. They were taking drugs? No wonder they chose a secret room to gather.


    As for the arson, those present were not ignorant. They were well aware of the fire''s originator. Yet now, it was Kallum who positioned himself as the fire preventer and the people inside who started the fire. Although the truth was known to some, fear kept them from voicing it out loud.


    Nevertheless, the pressing circumstances allowed little room for such concerns. The immediate imperative was the preservation of human lives. Amidst the chaos of the ongoing rescue operations, Kallum had already departed with Calista, leaving Gunner to manage the situation on the ground.


    The onlookers, taken aback by the


    unfolding events, harbored a


    profound bitterness. Yet, the idea of harboring a grudge against Kallum seemed futile; they recognized theirck of power. Their wrath, therefore, was redirected toward the Wolfords, who had dared to provoke a dangerous figure. Of all the people to antagonize, they chose Kallum''s wife. Are they courting death?


    Upon arriving home, Kallum wasted no time in summoning a doctor. Throughout the journey home and during the medical examination, Calista was extraordinarily cooperative and well-mannered, disying a level ofpliance that was unusual for her.

 Chapter 307 Momentary Lapse In Judgment

    This uncharacteristic behavior did not escape Kallum''s notice, prompting concern. "What happened? What did they do to frighten you?" he inquired with evident worry.


    Calista, looking somewhat subdued, replied, "I just feel... I depended too heavily on my own recollections. That''s what led things astray this time. I ept a significant portion of the me. I shouldn''t have erred in such a way..." Her voice carried a hint of despondency, clearly impacted by her own perceived failings.


    Kallum, attempting to lighten the mood, chuckled softly and affectionately tousled her hair. Noting herck of resistance, his heart softened. "Silly girl, everyone makes mistakes. Don''t hold yourself ountable for today''s events; the fault lies with those despicable b*stards."


    Despite his reassurances, Calista remained downcast. She had ced excessive trust in her memory, which not only led her into perilous situations but also jeopardized her survival. This was wholly inexcusable to her, and she struggled to readily forgive herself. "Geez..." Kallum murmured, sitting close and nting a tender kiss on her temple. "How did I ever fall for such a silly girl like you?"Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Calista frowned slightly. I''m not silly! This mistake has been a rarepse since my reincarnation. From now on, I can''t rely solely on her memory of my previous life.


    Upon learning of the machinations against her by Quincy and Jason, Kallum''s expression darkened significantly. "It turns out it was that scoundrel. Years ago, a woman he fancied dered her affection for me publicly, which he took as a personal affront. Not only did he ruin her life covertly, disfiguring her, but since then, he''s harbored a vendetta against me. I''ve never taken him seriously, but who could have imagined that he would be audacious enough to target you!"


    The more Kallum dwelt on the subject, the more his anger intensified. A fierce sparkle appeared in his violet eyes. "Just wait and see, Callie. I''ll make sure he pays for this!"


    Calista nodded, her emotions mixed. Unexpectedly, she found herself expressing, "It''s really nice to have you."


    Kallum, momentarily taken aback by her candid admission, saw his previously somber demeanor transform instantly into one of delight. "You''re just realizing this now?" he eximed, his heart swelling with emotion. He wished he could convey to her, "It''s so wonderful to have you too."


    She had found her sanctuary in him, just as he had rediscovered his zest for life in her. They were indeed a perfect match.


    Filled with unspoken joy, Kallum pondered the gift he had promised Callie. I wonder if it''s ready. I''m sure she''d be delighted if I presented it to her as a surprise before our wedding!


    The next day, Horington was once again alive with talk of Calista, sparking significant news coverage. Initially, those visiting the Wolfords presumed the woman seen with numerous men was Calista, stirring whispers and potential jests at Kallum''s expense about his fidelity.


    However, following the episode


    where Kallum heroically rescued


    Calista from the mes, any such rumors dissipated. The woman masquerading as Calista was forced to change her appearance by Kallum, who refused to tolerate anyone using Calista''s identity deceitfully. As for the arson itself, it remainedrgely unaddressed. Aside from Quincy, it appeared no one else was particrly concerned.


    Furthermore, many banquet attendees developed a strong aversion to Quincy, some even severing all ties with her, which underscored the extent of their disdain.


    Quincy was eventually held


    ountable for facilitating drug use


    and received a one-year prison sentence. On that day, several notable figures found in the secret room engaged in drug use and inappropriate conduct-were not only ousted and investigated but also received sentences ranging from two weeks to three months.


    Kallum, however, was far from appeased, especially after discovering that Jason had instigated the perilous scenario involving Calista and a loaded gun. Learning of the malicious trap set to tarnish her reputation irked him immensely, and he vowed not to let such actions go unpunished. Shortly thereafter, the Wendells arrived to apologize, led by patriarch Titus Wendell, who had maintained a good rtionship with the older generation of the Fairchild family. Recognizing his son''s transgression, he imposed strict family discipline for the first time and personally appeared at their door with backup.


    Ss was hesitant to appear, and Wanda openly disdained characters like Jason. Ultimately, it was Calista and Kallum who met with him directly.


    Within days, a stark reversal of fortunes urred.


    "Mr. Kallum, please, for my sake, understand that this time, this fool was misled by Quincy, that wretch. He acted foolishly under her influence. I have disciplined him severely at home; he truly recognizes his error now!"


    Kallum, lounging with an air of detached sarcasm, barely concealed his disdain.


    Calista, seated nearby, couldn''t suppress augh upon hearing this. She had endured significant loss, and if she allowed Jason and Quincy to seed in their scheme, the repercussions would extend beyond mere apologies. Not only would the Fairchilds be embroiled in a scandal, but her own reputation would suffer irreparably. Did the Wendells


    genuinely believe a mere


    punishment could rectify


    everything?


    "Mr. Wendell, do you truly grasp what your son intended for me?" Calista''s inquiry caused Titus'' face to twitch involuntarily.


    Guilt-ridden, he quickly offered his apologies. "I''m deeply sorry, Ms. Stafford... My son had a momentarypse in judgment. He was under the influence of marijuana at the time. He had no idea what he was doing="


    "I think you''re the one having a momentarypse in judgment!" Jason interjected brashly, prompting an immediate reaction from Titus, whose face reddened with anger.


    "You insolent child! Shut your mouth!" he barked.

 Chapter 308 Breaking His Legs As An Apology

    "Enough," Calista dered sharply, waving her hand in a dismissive gesture as she sat elegantly on the couch, her legs crossed and her tone frosty. "I''m not interested in observing how you discipline your child. Jason and Quincy conspired against me. Were it not for Kallum''s timely intervention, and frankly, a good dose of luck, I would have lost it all. Even if I had managed to survive, my reputation would be in shreds, my marriage would be in jeopardy, and let''s not forget..." Her voice trailed off as she sported a mischievous grin and gently patted her stomach, "Have you all forgotten? I am carrying a child, you know."


    Titus was visibly taken aback by her revtion. Had Calista not mentioned it, he might havepletely overlooked such a crucial detail!


    Kallum, with a slight lift of his chin, looked disdainfully upon them. "Had it not been for my swift action in catching Callie, she would''ve hit the ground, and we would''ve lost this child. This positions Jason as the culprit in an attempted murder against the future heir of my family! And you dare to dismiss this with a mere punishment?"


    Titus'' forehead was slick with sweat that seemed never to stop. The Wendells, relying on the business ties between their families and a general disregard for the sanctity of a woman''s life, didn''t deem ruining a woman''s life a significant transgression. But an attempt on the heir of the Fairchild family? That was a grievous misstep..


    At that moment, Jason burst outughing. "Ha! A child? Kallum, you think you can fool anyone with that line, like my idiot father?"


    He squinted maliciously at Calista. "Ms. Stafford''s a virgin, isn''t she? Even if not, she''s hardly been involved in adult matters. You im she''s pregnant? That''s utterly absurd. Is she pregnant on her first try?"


    Dealing with Jason, a notorious womanizer, had its pitfalls. Seeing Calista enter that secret room, utterly unfazed by the scandalous sights within, he was convinced of her naivety. The notion of her being pregnant seemed utterly preposterous to him.


    He couldn''t resist taunting Kallum further. "But Kallum, are you impotent? Such a beautiful woman and you could resist not making a move?"


    Kallum''s face turned terrifying in an instant, his anger palpable.


    "Shut up!" Titus, seeing Kallum''s reaction, lost his patience. Whether Calista was actually pregnant was beside the point. The Fairchild family had dered the existence of a child, and that fact aloneplicated things significantly.


    "Mr. Kallum, as you can see, my son is aplete idiot! I implore you not to stoop to his level. Whatever happened this time, our family will take full responsibility. I-I am prepared to offer Neptune Residences in Horington aspensation-" "Enough!" Kallum cut him off abruptly, his face tight with anger. "We don''t need your money. He tried to harm my child; shouldn''t his life be the price?"


    Kallum''s statement hung in the air like a death sentence for Jason, who was oblivious, one moment admiring the room''s d¨¦cor, the next gazing at Calista, naively believing that Titus could smooth things over.


    Calista, thinking about how Jason


    would eventually self-destruct, intervened to stop Kallum. "We don''t


    him to pay with his life, but that


    night, Mr. Jason wanted to break my legs and humiliate me! However, I''m not unreasonable. If he is willing to break his own legs in front of me, we can consider this matter settled..."


    "Callie?" Kallum looked puzzled. Calista gestured for him to remain calm, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she watched Titus'' reaction.


    "Break my leg? Do you think you, the daughter of some third-rate family, are worthy?" Jason, clearlycking any sense of impending danger, challenged. If Kallum actually permitted Calista''s demand, it mean antagonizing the entire Wendell family. They had close business ties; antagonizing them would mean significant losses. Jason was convinced Kallum wouldn''t make such a detrimental decision.


    "Shut your trap!" Titus scolded him for the second time, frustration and helplessness etched across his face as he turned pleadingly to Kallum. "Mr. Kallum... I had this sonte in life, when I was forty, I..."Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Kallum, thinking Calista too lenient, scoffed. "Even a broken leg can heal, and besides, don''t you have another son?"


    Jason, now truly rmed, took a step back. "Hey! Kallum, you''re not serious, are you?"


    But his question was met only with icy stares from everyone around him. It was at this moment that Jason truly felt the fear of being in hot water.


    Titus, desperately searching Kallum''s face for a sliver of mercy, found none. Calista''s demands, it seemed, were far too lenient for him. Kallum looked as if he genuinely wanted Jason to pay with his life.


    Titus'' hand clenched and then rxed before he pleaded, "Mr. Kallum, must it reallye to this?"


    With a cold chuckle, Kallum gestured. Instantly, Quintus stepped forward with an iron rod. "Do you want to do this yourself, or shall my men assist you?"


    Upon hearing this, Jason leapt up. "Kallum! We live under the rule ofw now, how can you treat me like this? This is lynching! I''ll report you!"


    Before he could finish, Titus suddenly picked up the iron rod and, with a brutal swing, struck him. With a crisp crack, Jason fell to his knees, clutching his leg and wailing in agony.


    "Dad! W-Why did you hit me? Calista is fine!"


    "Insolent fool!" Titus inhaled deeply, his hands trembling, yet when he nced at Kallum, his gaze was as icy as ever.


    Kallum was not Ss. While Ss was a man who was swift and decisive, yet possessed many friends, influenced by the teachings of the former head of their family, Kallum was decidedly different.

 Chapter 309 Kallum Is Different

    Despite his youth, Kallum disyed a ruthlessness and decisiveness that set him apart from the previous heads of the Fairchild family, who were renowned for their kindness and benevolence. He was known for his swift, resolute actions, and his distinct distaste for unnecessary dys or prolonged disputes. Furthermore, he despised the idea of harboring grudges beyond the day''s end. The unfortunate fate of the Wendell family stood as a stark testament to his upromising nature.


    The historical closeness between the Yost and Fairchild families did little to mitigate the harsh realities the former faced. The Yosts had been driven to the brink of financial ruin, narrowly avoidingplete copse only through the desperate measure of selling off their daughter. It was clear that attempting to appeal to personal rtions when dealing with Kallum would likely prove fruitless.


    Titus wasing to terms with his own aging, realizing that his methods and approaches no longer aligned with those of the younger generation.


    In his weary state, he clung to a faint glimmer of hope. Surely, having broken a leg was punishment enough?


    Yet, Calista remained unimpressed and unmoved. "Mr. Wendell, I acknowledge the sincerity of your gesture," she remarked with a light chuckle, her demeanor calm yet unmistakably stern. "As for the other leg, I think it''s best left to my team. They possess the necessary skill to perform the task without causing undue suffering."


    Jason, unable to contain his outrage, shrieked, "You b*tch! Aren''t you just fine? How dare you treat me like this! Just you wait! When my timees, I will-"


    His threat was abruptly cut short as Titus intervened, silencing him with a firm hand. Titus was determined not to let his recent efforts go to waste, despite Jason''s frequent outbursts, as he was still the son he had long cherished.


    Calista stood gracefully. "Mr. Wendell, it''s regrettable but I must inform you, if you continue to shield him in this manner, Mr. Jason might very well end up destroying his own future."


    Her words, tinged with a sense of schadenfreude, carried an undeniable realism that seemed to age Titus visibly within moments.


    A sh of contempt crossed Calista''s eyes as she effortlessly took the iron rod from Titus''s hand. "Let me handle this," she proposed, her tone gentle yet firm. "As a woman, my approach is softer. Besides, this is a personal matter between Jason and me." Titus hesitated, but before he could respond, Kallum interjected with a nonchnt remark, "Now you hesitate? What about when Jason endangered my child?"


    The stark reminder caused Titus to grit his teeth in frustration. "As you wish, Ms. Stafford."


    He had always perceived Jason as troublesome, but manageable; yet, this incident revealed ack of basic sensibility that could potentially doom not only Jason but drag the entire Wendell family into ruin.


    "No need for such formalities, I''m more than happy to help," Calista responded promptly.


    Jason was stunned. Never had he imagined that his father, who had consistently cleaned up after his messes, would abandon him at such a critical moment.


    "Dad!"


    "No matter how much you protest, it won''t change the situation..." Calista replied with a slight chuckle, the iron rod swinging smoothly into her grasp, "Now, you''re under my control." "Y-You b*tch!"


    Bang!


    Before Jason could finish hisint, Calista struck his hand with the rod. The blow wasn''t particrly forceful, yet Jason''s howl of pain was more piercing than when his leg had been broken.


    "Huh? I was quite gentle, though..." Calista remarked as she watched Titus hurriedly roll up Jason''s pants to inspect the injury. However, he found no bruise, and it was clear that Calista''s strike had been mild. Is Jason exaggerating his pain deliberately? "You brat! You still refuse to get it together?" At his wit''s end, Titus'' patience was exhausted as he saw Jason continue his theatrics.


    Calista raised an eyebrow, "He''s fine? Good, I merely intended to teach him a modest lesson."


    Titus, his expression cold, dered, "Ms. Stafford, please proceed! I will not interfere any further!"


    Jason, writhing in pain on the ground, barely able to speak, heard his father''s deration. His voice shifted in pitch, his eyes wide with shock. "It really hurts! Dad, you have to save me!" Bang!


    Calista swung the rod down once more. This time, Jason gasped for breath, unable to utter a sound.


    Assured that Calista wasn''t particrly strong and Jason would be able to endure a bit of physical pain, Titus embodied the adage, out of sight, out of mind.


    However, Jason seemed to be purposely putting on an act. His wails of agony got louder after each strike.


    He felt near the brink of copse, yet Calista''s calcted moderation kept him conscious. Each strike seemed to push kim to the limit of


    endurance without causing actual unconsciousness or death, but the agony was relentless, driving him to the edge of sanity.


    Calista, you despicable b*tch! I swear I''ll kill you!


    "What''s the matter? Don''t you feel wronged?" Calista set aside the rod, her voice low and teasing. She nced sideways at Titus, who had turned his back on the scene, and clicked her tongue. "Your savior is right in front of you, yet he doesn''t believe you. How does that feel?"


    "Y-You..." Jason was speechless, ring at her furiously.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Calista''s lightughter filled the air. "Do you think I''m good at pretending? But aren''t you even better at it? Your father believes you''re just a tactless and ipetent brat, a madman even. But could a madman have orchestrated such a detailed plot?" Jason''s face contorted, his expression freezing in shock.


    Calista continued, "Heh, you


    orchestrated a scenario where I was between a rock and a hard ce, forcing Kallum into a situation where every decision seemed incorrect. If it hadn''t been for Kallum''s quick thinking to start that fire, it''s


    uncertain what my fate wouldvel


    been. Given your cunning and cold-heartedness, how can you possibly be a mere rich and spoiled brat? Your only issues are yourck of responsibility and your penchant for holding onto grudges and stirring up trouble, living life as nothing but a detestable good-for-nothing."

 Chapter 310 I Am A Terrifying Person

    "Calista Stafford!" In a surge of anger, Jason attempted to lunge at Calista''s throat, his hands aiming for a violent grasp.


    However, his movement was swiftly intercepted by Kallum, who had been cautiously observing from the sidelines. Kallum grabbed Jason''s wrist in a firm grip, and with a quick twist, dislocated it, causing Jason''s arm to hang limply as he screamed in agony. Calista, standing up with aposed smile, said, "All right, let''s not break his other leg. I''ve released my frustration with those two hits. Let''s not cause him any further suffering."


    Let''s not cause him any further suffering?


    Jason clenched his jaw, his face flushing red with the pain and humiliation, unable to retaliate. Meanwhile, Titus exhaled a sigh of relief, gesturing for the housekeepers to bring a stretcher to carry Jason away.


    "Mr. Kallum, Ms. Stafford," Titus addressed them with a newfound respect that had been absent when he first arrived. The mixture of Kallum''s assertive pressure and Calista''s calcted measures had earned his gratitude, far beyond what he expected from young individuals.


    "Since Ms. Stafford has graciously decided to spare this brat further punishment, that''s one less concern for me," Titus spoke earnestly to Kallum, his tone now ingratiating. "I hope we can put this matter behind us, and it won''t affect the rtionship between our families." Reluctantly, Kallum replied, "Fine, we''ll let it slide this time, but keep a close eye on him. Should there be a next time, it won''t merely involve broken bones."


    "Absolutely, there won''t be a next time, there definitely won''t be!" Titus assured, eager to end the ordeal.


    After the incident, Calista rxed onto Kallum''sp, a hint of pride in her voice as if boasting about her cunning. "Do you know? I just used a little medical trick on Jason. He was truly in pain, but the more he suffered, the happier I felt!"


    Kallum, after hearing Jason''s cries, felt his anger chip away ever so slightly. He tapped Calista''s head solemnly. "Let''s leave that behind us now. But tell me, how could you just jump down like that day? And how did you know one of the walls was fake?"


    Calista wore a hesitant look. "Because... that room was originally Harvey''s study. When it was transformed into a secret room, I guessed that one of the walls was a facade covering the floor-to-ceiling windows with a soundproof wall."


    Kallum''s violet eyes narrowed, his voice carrying a hint of intrigue. "When did you visit Harvey''s mansion in Horington?"


    The atmosphere chilled slightly. Calista, typically forthright, chose to remain silent rather than continue the deception.


    "Do you... think I''m a bit cruel?" Calista suddenly asked, her voice serious and her expression stern.N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    "Don''t people like you usually prefer women who are simple and kind? It''s lessplicated and more reassuring, isn''t it?" She pointed at herself, her eyes shing a surprisingly sharp glint. "I... I''ve killed people. Aren''t you afraid? I might even be somewhat unstable mentally. How else could remain indifferent after taking a life or even find joy in someone''s torment? I... am a terrifying person."


    Kallum couldn''t suppress a chuckle. For some reason, hearing Calista seriously im she was a terrifying person made himugh.


    "Huh?" Calista red at him, slightly annoyed, prompting Kallum to quickly appease her.


    "All right, all right... You are indeed a terrifying person," Kallum''s lips still curled in amusement. "But I''m different from others. I actually find intimidating people quite fascinating; don''t you think so too?" Calista scrutinized him, her expression cold and evaluative.


    "Look at you," Kallum continued,


    He added, "When everyone else doubted me, when being associated with me became risky, you consistently defended me. It was then I realized how incredibly fortunate I am to be protected by someone like you..."


    His tone softened, his gaze tender yet tinged with a hint of sadness, "You contracted the K Virus because of me. I failed to protect you. You truly are a terrifying person, too harshon yourself. And me? I can''t help but be drawn to this fearsome aspect of you. How could resist when you appeared before me sopellingly, forcing me to fall in love with you?"


    Calista felt his gaze intensifying, a fluttering sensation stirring within her, realizing she quite liked this feeling.


    "I''m not very good at expressing love," Kallum added with another chuckle, lightening the mood once more as he looked at her, his eyes sparkling again. "All you need to know is that every word I''ve said is true." Calista pursed her lips. "I think you''re already quite skilled at sweet talk."


    Kallum burst intoughter, then his expression turned serious. "By the way, what are you nning to do with Quincy? Now that she''s in jail, things have be easier."


    Calista narrowed her eyes, clearly intrigued by the question, but ultimately, she just shook her head.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 311 Always Give Her The Very Best

    "Let''s dy any further action for now. We''re in a sensitive period, and many people are watching us closely. Stirring up more trouble isn''t wise. Besides, she''s already been sentenced and will be out of the picture for quite some time. We can revisit this issue once the dust settles."N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    "That sounds reasonable." Kallum stroked his chin thoughtfully, then said, "You know, I can be quite ruthless, far from the kind and gentle persona you might imagine. Do you still like me then?"


    He remembered a conversation where Calista had told him that she admired him most for his demeanor, which she likened to the bright morning sun. Although he never considered himself particrly bright or sunny.


    Calista''s brow furrowed slightly as she spoke earnestly, "I like you because you embody a sense of freedom. You do whatever you want without caring about what others might think. It''s not because of your kindness." "So, it seems we truly are a match made in heaven!" Kallum concluded with a smile.


    Calista paused, considering his words, then nodded with a returning smile, "Yes, we''re definitely a perfect match!"


    "Given our understanding, I think it''s time for a special gift before we get married!" Kallum seized the moment to present his idea with enthusiasm. "Do you remember when I told you I wanted to build a research center just for you?" Calista''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "You were serious about that?"


    Kallum tapped her head yfully, chuckling softly, "When have I ever lied to you? The renovation isplete, and the weather is perfect today. Would you like to see the final result?" "Well, what are we waiting for?"


    With that, they left the Fairchild Manor, heading toward the newly established research center.


    Since Calista had publiclymitted to studying the K Virus, the absence of her own research center andck of governmental oversight had caused public unease about potential safety risks.


    But now, with the research center established, Calista''s professional stature was elevated once again. All of this was a testament to the honor that Kallum had bestowed upon her.


    As the car headed toward the research center, for the first time, Calista showed deep emotion. Memories of her past would often sh in front of her eyes whenever she was with Kallum.


    Kallum then produced a scarf, gently covering her eyes with it, and whispered mysteriously, "For a little surprise, close your eyes for a while. We''ll be there soon."


    Seeing Calista so serene andpliant, blindfolded, touched Kallum deeply. She had softened significantlypared to when they first met, like a hedgehog that had retracted its spines, though she might not have noticed this change herself. Noticing a faint smile on Calista''s lips, Kallum couldn''t help but return the smile. After blindfolding her, he leaned in and softly kissed her cloth-covered eyes. "Do you know? Anything I do is worth it just to see you smile."


    Inside the vehicle, Calista''s face broke into a radiant smile. She lifted her head toward Kallum and let out a light chuckle. "That said, I suddenly find myself really wanting to marry you."


    Being cherished in such a way felt truly wonderful. In the past, she had inadvertently caused trouble due to


    her own carelessness, potentially


    putting Kallum in a difficult position. Yet, he didn''t me her; instead, he treated her even better than before. Marrying someone who loved her this deeply promised nothing but happiness.


    Even though she couldn''t see him, Calista could sense the joy spark in Kallum''s eyes at her words.


    If they weren''t in a car, Kallum would surely have spun her around in his arms in delight! It was the first time Calista had explicitly expressed her desire to marry him, and he felt so ted he thought he might soar.


    "I will give you the best of everything!" he dered, a bit too hastily, his fingers entwining tightly with hers, his smile beaming. "I promise to always give you the very best."


    "All right."


    The car seemed to glide effortlessly, speeding toward their destination with an almost magical lightness.


    The sky was clear, and the air was filled with happiness, suggesting this should have been the happiest day before their wedding.


    Yet, as they stepped out of the car, Calista''s slight smile faded. Though she couldn''t see, her senses picked up a familiar, chilling fragrance.


    "Did you smell something?"


    Kallum''s voice was cheerful as he spoke, and Calista turned toward him, though her eyes remained covered.


    The bodyguards maintained a


    discreet distance, surrounding the


    area which was nestled on three sides by ake. This strategic location Could serve as an impregnable fortress, having been intended by Kallum''s grandfather as a high-end nursing home. However, his passing had halted construction midway, leaving the project dormant until now, when it was renovated under Kallum''s directive.


    With a smile, he teased her, "Take a guess; can you recognize this scent? It should be familiar to you."


    "Rosemary..." The wind carried the invigorating aroma of rosemary in full bloom through the cool autumn air. Without seeing, one could sense the presence of a vast expanse of blooming rosemary nearby, their purple blossoms swaying in the breeze.


    "Exactly, it''s rosemary!" Kallum led


    Calista by the hand, continuing, "This is one of my family''s ancestral


    properties, perfectly secluded. My grandfather had nned to build a nursing home here, surrounded by rosemary for its therapeutic and medicinal qualities. It''s truly a


    spectacr sight."


    At that moment, Calista paused, lifting her head as if something caught her attention. It seemed she realized they had arrived at their destination.

 Chapter 312 Who Is He To You

    "And this, is my gift to you-a research center dedicated entirely to you. Here, you''re the boss!" As Kallum uttered these words, he gently removed the blindfold from Calista''s eyes.


    The white gauze, intertwined with strands of her long, dark hair, fluttered in the breeze, then drifted away into the distance. Slowly, Calista opened her eyes, and what she saw first was an imposing, castle-like structure.


    It stood majestically amidst a vibrant sea of flowers, the severe stone walls contrasting starkly with the gentle blooms around it, crafting a picturesque scene reminiscent of a fairy tale. In the distance, the presence of a sereneke added an element of natural fortification, reinforcing the seclusion and impregnability of this sanctuary.


    This ce was clearly designed with privacy in mind, perhaps due to its association with the Fairchilds.


    Suddenly, Calista began to feel a headacheing on, a sharp pain as if needles were pricking her temples. Unfortunately, Kallum, caught up in the moment, didn''t notice her difort.


    "Do you like it here? The water in thiske is filtered and crystal clear, and although it''s devoid of fish, the scenery alone is quite stunning," Kallum pointed out enthusiastically.


    He gestured toward the top of the building. "Up there, above the fifth floor, there''s an observation deck. It''s the perfect spot to rx during the spring and summer months, enjoy some tea, or even take a peaceful afternoon nap..."


    He continued, "If the scent of rosemary isn''t to your liking, we can have other flowers nted. Whether it''s roses orvender, it''spletely your choice. There''s no special warrant in effect for this ce, so it''spletely private. No one can intrude. You can truly do as you wish here, whatever brings you joy."


    Kallum spoke at length, more than he usually did. This ce was a testament to the extensive and secretive efforts he had put into making it just right. In addition to the research center, he had also included afortable bedroom, a wine cer, a gym, among other amenities. He had envisioned it as a retreat where he and Calista could spend countless intimate moments, just the two of them secluded from the world.


    However, Calista''s headache was growing worse. Kallum''s voice, usually pleasant, now seemed to echo incessantly, exacerbating her pain. It even felt like her vision was slowly being suffused with a red tint. Gathering her strength, she asked slowly, clearly, "What''s your rtionship with Horatio Ingram?"


    "Horatio?" Kallum paused, taken aback by her question. He turned to face her, noticing for the first time her flushed face and bloodshot eyes. "What''s wrong, Calista?" he eximed, reaching out to support her. Calista fiercely shrugged off his hands. "Horatio Ingram, who is he to you!"


    For the first time, Calista''s tone carried a sharpness that made Kallum react almost reflexively, "He was my grandfather''srade-in-arms and his sworn brother. He''s the only elder I... truly respect..." This is how it is?


    Calista began to retreat, distancing herself from Kallum. The man who had always seemed the least threatening to her now appeared menacing, every touch of his feeling like a stab wound. "Callie..." Kallum''s voice wasced with panic, "What''s wrong with you?"


    "Don''te any closer!" Calista''smand made Kallum stop in his tracks. He sensed that aggravating her further might be dangerous given her current state.


    "All right... I won''te closer..." Kallum watched her intently, "Can you tell me what''s wrong? Isn''t this ce beautiful? Don''t you like it?"


    Was this ce not beautiful?


    How could it not be? Surrounded by fields of rosemary, with a majestic castle-like building, crystal-clear water, and the tranquil sounds of bird song in the morning. Yet, beneath its breathtaking beauty, this ce harbored dark secrets.


    Here was where Calista had endured the most tormenting three years of her life-sedated daily with sedatives derived from rosemary, drinking water from theke, and awakening each morning to the chirping of birds amidst a fog of disorientation.


    She had often hoped for rescue, especially as the homeless frequently vanished. Surely, she thought, someone would notice and investigate. Uwful experiments with the K Virus, the creation of human test subjects-surely the government couldn''t ignore such activities forever.


    Yet, everyone was oblivious to what was truly happening in this ce. Without a warrant issued by the President, none could search the premises. Each time Calista heard an unfamiliar voice, her hope surged, only to fade as quickly as a bird''s call.


    Her long-suppressed memories surged to the forefront.


    Suddenly, Calista screamed, a sound filled with anguish and madness, and then she turned and ran.


    Kallum, bewildered by her reaction yet certain he couldn''t let her flee, tried to follow. In his haste, he tripped, his knee scraping against a rock, drawing blood. Yet, he ignored his pain, his gaze fixed on Calista''s fleeing figure, calling out her name in desperation.


    "Callie!"


    Calista stopped abruptly. From behind, her posture was tense, like a cheetah ready to spring, her fists clenched.


    Seeing her pause, Kallum let out aThis text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    breath of relief, despite the sharp pain coursing through him. His forehead beaded with sweat, he limped toward her, trying to soothe her with his words.


    "Callie, it''s okay now... Don''t be scared, I won''t hurt you, I''m your husband..."


    Calista''s muscles rxed slightly, which slightly eased the tension gripping Kallum''s heart, though he remained highly concerned.

 Chapter 313 Should Have Realized Sooner

    His face tense with concern, Kallum took a deep breath and slowly extended his hand toward her. "Callie... tell me what''s wrong? I promise you, I''m here for you. I will help you in any way I can! Trust me, I''m willing to do whatever it takes for you!" His earnest plea hung in the air as Calista suddenly spun around, facing him directly. Kallum''s hand grasped the empty air as his eyes met hers. At that moment, all his words seemed to catch in his throat, a flicker of fear darting across his purple eyes. "Callie... what''s going on?" Calista took a step back, a smile ying on her lips, yet her eyes were streaming with tears tinged with a faint red hue. Her expression was hauntingly eerie, almost too much to bear.


    Kallum struggled to discern whether she wasughing or crying; her facial muscles were tense, her smile rigid, while her eyes betrayed a profound agony, the kind pushed to the brink of madness. She seemed to stand in a picturesque field of flowers, yet precariously on the edge of a cliff, as if the slightest touch might send her spiraling into an abyss.


    "Would you consider using someone you despise, who just happens to be a unique case, as a human test subject to save another person?" Calista''s voice was eerily calm, her blood-tinged tears blending into the flora around her as if they were merely part of thendscape.


    Kallum''s mind nked for a moment, feeling as if his heart was clenched within an unseen fist. The person before him seemed so delicate, as though she might shatter from a mere touch, causing him to tread lightly, even with his breathing. "I won''t..."


    "You will," Calista countered sharply, her insight cutting through his denial. "Just like with Sterling, you wanted to utilize him fully before his demise. I merely preempted your n by killing him first."


    Kallum''s heart churned with turmoil, his lips pressing tightly together as he instinctively responded. "Because he''s a viin, he wanted to harm you..."


    "Right, Sterling might not be a fairparison," Calista mused thoughtfully, almost coldly. "You hate her but feel a slight obligation. It''s from Sterling''s case."


    She scoffed slightly. "Imagine this scenario. Someone important to you falls ill, and then you find out the person you despise is also ill, a special infected. Would you let others experiment on her?" Calista''s hypothetical question hung in the air,den with implications. "Out of a small sense of responsibility, you''d insist the researcher spare her life after the experiment. If it seeded, she should be healed immediately that''s the least they could do topensate her. Maybe others suggested that without bing a test subject, she might die quickly. But by bing one, she might survive and save someone important to you. And isn''t survival the greatest gift for her, despite the pain?"


    Suddenly, Calista took a step closer,


    her gaze piercing into Kallum''s. She


    concluded dismissively, "So, because of your disdain for her, you never bothered to find out why she fell ill, or even if it was true. You were afraid that if you didn''t use her as a human test subject, she would die. And you were scared of the


    heartache it would cause others. So,


    you chose to remain ignorant."


    Her logic was brutally efficient, a reflection of the mindset of those in power, weighing the lesser of two evils and exploiting avable resources.


    But Kallum felt a surge of panic. Her words weren''t the ramblings of a delirious person; they were coherent, painfully precise. She spoke as if she was the one sacrificed, the special test subject, while he, blinded by utilitarian need, had sanctioned her torture for the "greater good."


    How could it be possible?


    "Callie, you''re hallucinating. Are you allergic to rosemary?" Kallum quickly surmised, desperation creeping into his voice. "Can we go home? Let''s see a doctor..."


    His attempt to approach her was met with a fierce swipe of her hand, pushing him back, causing him to stumble and scrape his knee on a rock, drawing blood. A profound sorrow tore through Kallum as he watched her, his heart heavy with despair. "Callie..." He looked at her helplessly, fear and confusion clouding his eyes. This wasn''t like her. Before, whenever he was hurt, Calista would rush to his side, concerned and caring. This cold detachment was unlike her.


    "Don''t touch me!" Calista''smand was sharp, her expression icy. The veins in her eyes, once bloodshot, now seemed to pulse with a fierce, almost predatory intensity.


    "If you love somebody, you want


    them to live forever, but if you hate somebody, you want them dead. To you, I was merely a ything for your emotions. You could elevate me to the skies, or crush me into the dust. should have seen iting.... Who else could it be but you." She nced around at the apparent utopia surrounding her, her gaze turning to the fortress-like building with a cold, mocking derision. "Heh... Who else but you could have established such a ce? I should have realized sooner."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Callie!" Kallum called out as she turned to leave, but it was toote. Calista didn''t pause or look back this time; she fled with all the speed she could muster. Watching her determined figure disappear into the distance filled Kallum with an overwhelming sense of loss. Why is this happening? Is it because of this ce? The flowers, the grass? Why has Callie suddenly turned so wild?

 Chapter 314 A Mental Illness

    When Calista came rushing toward them, panic etched across her face, Gunner and the others were visibly startled. Her expression was a stark departure from her usuallyposed demeanor. "What''s the matter, Ms. Calista?" Quintus was the first to react, rushing over to inquire.


    Grasping his hand as though it were her only anchor, Calista eximed, "What should we do? Kallum has suddenly gone into shock! No matter what I try, I can''t wake him up..."


    "What?" The urgency of the situation shocked everyone present. Instinctively, they dashed in the direction Calista hade from, while simultaneously making calls to summon a helicopter and a rescue team. But just as Quintus ended the call, his phone rang. To his astonishment, it was Kallum on the line!


    "Mr. Kallum? But weren''t you..." Quintus started, confused.


    "Quickly..." Kallum''s voice came through, hoarse and trembling as if he was in immense pain. "Quick, stop Callie!"


    "What?" Quintus spun around only to see that Calista had already sped away in a car, disappearing into a cloud of dust.


    Her departure was swift, and it puzzled everyone how she could drive so expertly despite never having learned. Nevertheless, they knew they couldn''t let her get away.


    "Gunner, go find Mr. Kallum, I''ll take some people and follow her!" Quintusmanded quickly, and Gunner led a team inside to find Kallum.


    Calista had vanished without a trace. Though unaware of what had transpired, Quintus, fueled by the urgency in Kallum''s voice, quickly dialed another number. "Pinpoint the location of Car No. 6, immediately!" The response from the radar came swiftly, but by the time Quintus arrived at the designated location, all he found was the car abandoned by the roadside, empty.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    The sound of helicopter rotors thundered in the distance as Kallum, having hastily bandaged his injuries, arrived on the scene.


    Before the helicopter had fullynded, Kallum leapt out, his concern evident. He grabbed Quintus urgently. "Where is she?"


    Quintus, sweating profusely, replied, "Mr. Kallum... When I got here, Ms. Calista was already gone..."


    His words seemed to hit Kallum like a physical blow. Kallum looked stunned and asked again, his voice barely a whisper, "Did you say she''s gone missing?" "Mr. Kallum... I''ll immediately check the nearby surveince footage. We won''t lose track of her," Quintus assured him, though his voice trembled slightly. Upon hearing this, Kallum''s face turned ashen, beads of cold sweat forming on his forehead as if he were experiencing a sudden onset of illness.


    "Mr. Kallum! Quick, we need to head back to the Fairchild Manor!" Quintus instructed, his voice urgent.


    Calista''s disappearance sent shockwaves through Horington. After being rescued, Kallum turned the city upside down searching for her over the following days.


    "Kallum, what on earth happened? Why did Callie suddenly run off?" Wanda was fraught with worry. She cared for Calista as if she were her own daughter and rushed to Kallum''s side as soon as he woke up.


    At that moment, Kallum was pacing,


    on the phone, his eyes bloodshot, his voice filled with frustration. "She vanished right there, how could you not find her? If you couldn''t find her, shouldn''t you have expanded the search area?"


    After ending the call, Kallum faced Wanda, suddenly seeming to find sce in her presence. He knew how close Callie was to his mother. "I''m not sure, Mom," he confessed, "Callie suddenly got upset and then she just ran off. I don''t know what I did wrong..."


    "Kallum... Don''t me yourself," Wanda responded soothingly, seeing his agitation. "I''ll call Benedict over, he might know something." However, Calista didn''t seek out Benedict, and when he arrived, he looked visibly distressed, having clearly not slept well for days.


    "What happened? How did Callie suddenly disappear?" Benedict questioned, fraught with anxiety.


    "Benedict, please don''t panic," Wanda attempted to calm him, her expression worried. "We really don''t know. Kallum wanted to give Callie a gift, but something changed drastically after she saw it..."


    "A gift? Yes, that house!" Kallummented, wishing he could turn back time and not bring Calista there in the first ce.


    "What should we do now? Callie hasn''te to see me either, and she''s clearly emotionally unstable..." Benedict was pacing anxiously, his worry palpable.


    Just then, his eyes brightened with a sudden realization. "That''s right, Callie has a mental illness!"


    "A mental illness?" Kallum''s gaze sharpened suddenly, making Benedict falter. Momentarily stuck for words, it took Benedict a long while to gather his thoughts.


    "Right... she''s suffering from a


    mental illness!" he stammered, "Everything was fine until about a year and a half ago. You remember the small banquet your family held right? That was the day you proved Callie''s innocence. From that day on, she seemed like apletely different person. She used to be so obedient and well-behaved, but I don''t know if the events of that day scared her. Her temperament changed drastically, and she


    became prickly and defensive..."


    "Why didn''t you mention such a crucial matter earlier!" Wanda interjected, shocked and distressed that Calista had been suffering.

 Chapter 315 The Pain He Had Caused Her

    I did mention it before, didn''t I?" Benedict remarked with a hint of uncertainty, his eyebrows knitting together in a frown. "After the initial adjustment, Callie seemed to settle well into her new persona..." "Yet, something else must have set her off that day," he pondered aloud.


    Kallum, trying to remainposed, cast his eyes downward, lost in contemtion. He was unable to pinpoint what exactly had distressed her. Moreover, the remarks she had uttered just before disappearing were oddly unsettling, suggesting she had experienced something unknown to him.


    Such mysteries were not umon in their interactions; Callie always seemed to be holding back secrets. Kallum, respecting her privacy, had never pressed her for more information. But now, it appeared that all the hidden truths were surfacing. "Whether it''s a mental illness or something else entirely, my only goal is to locate her," he expressed, exhaustion evident as he massaged his temples. "Mom, could you please ensure that the best psychiatrist is avable for her?"


    "Of course..." Wanda murmured, her expression filled with concern. Torn between her son and her daughter-inw, whom she loved like her own daughter, she was deeply troubled.


    Wanda was pained by the thought that Calista might be suffering from mental issues, yet she had always managed her role as a mother impably. Calista had devoted herself fully to their well-being, yet somehow, they had overlooked her struggles. It was only now bing clear that something was seriously wrong.


    But where was Calista now?


    The Fairchild family had broadcasted an appeal across all prestigious families, offering a substantial reward for any information regarding Calista''s whereabouts. This even tempted those who normally opposed the Fairchilds to consider revealing her location for the right price.


    Still, she remained elusive. Where could Calista possibly be hiding?


    Inside a modest condominium, Wyatt offered a bottle of water to Calista, his features betraying a mixture of emotions. "Are you really not going back?" he inquired gently.


    Wyatt had stumbled upon Calista by the roadside, feverish and delirious. Initially, his n was to rush her to the hospital, but when she fiercely resisted and bit him, he had no choice but to bring her to his apartment instead.


    There, he had administered a significant amount of antipyretic to reduce her fever and had taken several days off work to care for her. He regrly alcohol to her forehead to help bring the fever down physically. Eventually, Calista regained consciousness, but she remained distant and umunicative, seemingly holding a grudge against him.


    Respecting her apparent wishes, Wyatt decided against forcing her to return home.


    After taking a sip from the water bottle, his damp hair sticking to his face from a recent bath, Wyatt


    appeared


    appeared more mature. Not just physically, but his understanding of moralplexities had deepened over thest year. His presence now conveyed a sense of reliability and reserve.


    Kallum has been looking for you," Wyatt revealed straightforwardly, his toneplex as he continued, "To be frank, he''s been turning Horington upside down looking for you."


    Despite having been instructed by his grandfather to search for Calista diligently, Wyatt had managed to find her early on and had secretly whisked her away using a police vehicle to avoid detection. Out of respect for her wishes, he hadn''t disclosed her whereabouts to anyone else.


    Hearing Kallum''s name, Calista''s eyes narrowed slightly, and she chose to remain silent. Seeing this, Wyatt moved the breakfast tray closer to her and said, "Regardless, I respect your wishes. If you don''t want to leave, I won''t force you."


    Wyatt understood that Calista might have been deeply hurt, possibly by Kallum himself, which discouraged him from suggesting she return home, fearing it could cause further distress.


    He ced a phone, a set of keys,


    and some cash on the table. "I have an important task today, so I need to leave, but promise toe backter. If you''re hungry, feel free to order something, or maybe go for a walk... or you could even call a friend


    if you feel like talking."


    After speaking, Wyatt noticed that Calista was still curled up, hugging her knees and ignoring him. With a sigh, he picked up his jacket and left the apartment.


    Since Calista was unresponsive, he felt that his presence might worsen her mood.


    The room felt overwhelmingly empty and vast as soon as he departed. Clutching her knees tightly, Calista''s long eyshes trembled as she buried her head in her knees, and tears slowly began to form in her eyes.


    In her previous life, her love for Kallum had been simple and pure. She was unique, her body possessing capabilities that otherscked. Why, then, had she been subjected to such torment?Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She had initially thought that Kallum


    was the only one who hadn''t hurt her. However, in the end, it was he who had dealt her the most painful blow, pushing her to the brink of despair. Not only had he facilitated her torment, but he had also shielded those who had caused her pain. Perhaps, he even intended to sacrifice her life for the sake of others.


    Even if he was fooled by others, oblivious to the fact that she was deliberately infected by someone, and there was no need for her to be a test subject to secure her survival, the indirect pain Kallum had caused her was still substantial.


    It was then she realized how Quincy had managed to infiltrate the heavily-secured research center. Perhaps Kallum thought she deserved her freedom after the virus had been curbed, so he instructed Quincy to take her home. But what was Kallum doing then? Calista recalled Quincy''sst words to her-Kallum and Mirabelle were about to be engaged.

 Chapter 316 Would You Dare To Make A Move

    Calista was caught betweenughter and sadness. She had rarely shed tears in front of others when she was clear-headed, but at this moment, the pain was all too much to bear.


    Her defenses had been stripped away, leaving her with raw, bleeding wounds. The pain was so intense, it was almost suffocating. The K Virus only exacerbated her condition, adding insult to injury. Every breath she took was filled with pure agony. I was wondering why Sterling didn''t show up when it was the Wolfords who managed to capture me. It''s because of the Fairchilds'' intervention. They wanted to use me to help others, and this the man I''m deeply in love with...


    Calista bit her hand to muffle her sobs. She was the only one in the house, yet it was if she feared someone would find her crying and discover her weakness.


    Her mind had raced through countless scenarios, but the likeliest exnation for Kallum''s innocence was that he had been duped. Even so, she had been suffering at the Fairchilds'' ancestral property for three years, so how could he have not known? Calista surmised that it was because he hated her and was ignorant of her sufferings, just like the other self-consoling people who all assumed they were saving her by subjecting her to inhumane torture.


    In their eyes, Calista was a patient. Without them, she might have died. She made a sacrifice, bing a living test subject, and it was hard, but they did their best to save her life. What could be a better gift than survival?


    Still, they had never once sought Calista''s consent.


    In fact, she would rather die than endure such torment.


    The only reason Calista had endured for three long years instead of seeking death, was because she was tormented to such an extent that all she yearned for was revenge.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Exactly! Revenge! So what if he only provided the venue? Kallum doesn''t deserve my kindness! He was indifferent to my sufferings when he hated me and only showed his concern when he liked me. I don''t need his superficial affection! With that thought, Calista gradually wiped her tears and regained herposure, though her gaze was tinged with a hint of madness.


    At the very least, I''m doing well now. After my reincarnation, those who had done me wrong in the past have mostly been defeated. I''m different now. This time, I''m going to win!


    With that thought, her gaze fell upon her phone and a suddenugh escaped her. I''m a winner, so shouldn''t I boast about it?


    She strained her memory for a phone number, then dialed it.


    "Hello?" came the voice from the other end. Mirabelle found the sudden phone call rather odd, for she didn''t recognize the number.


    A soft chuckle escaped Calista as she spoke. "Mirabelle, life''s been tough for youtely, hasn''t it?"


    "Calista?" Taken aback, Mirabelle shot to her feet. She was in her room, unsure of what to do next. The Fairchilds had been frantically searching for Calista, leaving Mirabelle to ponder if she should reveal this information to them.


    Before she could gather her


    1.n


    thoughts, Calista''s voice, melodic and hoarse, came from the other end. "I''m sure you feel awful at the thought of you having to sell yourself to prevent your family''spany from going under. That''s right, I''m here to revel in your misery. Seeing you in such a pitiful state makes me feel so happy I can barely contain my glee!"


    "Calista Stafford!" Mirabelle''s mind was filled with hatred. If Kallum wasn''t busy looking for her, he''d be on my tail about what happened at the Wolfords'', and this is all Calista''s fault! How dare she call me just to gloat? Upon hearing Mirabelle''s flustered cursing, Calista chuckled in satisfaction. It felt as if all of the negative thoughts that were guing her were transforming toward another extreme.


    It doesn''t matter. All that matters now is that I''m feeling great!


    "I bet you''re itching to catch me now when I''m away from the Fairchilds and not under Kallum''s protection, to exact your revenge. Perhaps you''re even trying to locate me right now?" Mirabelle halted mid-tirade.


    Though she was incredibly frustrated at the moment, but she wasn''t foolish enough to lose her senses. Now that Calista isn''t under the Fairchilds'' protection, it''s too good of an opportunity to miss. I just need to find her first!


    As she cursed under her breath, she was simultaneously sending her cronies to trace Calista''s location. Yet, the woman easily saw through her scheme. It was no surprise that Calista knew her all too well, considering they had been "friends" for so many years. Calista chuckled lightly. "So what if you manage to find me? Would you dare toy a hand on me?"


    Mirabelle clenched her phone so tight that her fingers started to turn pale.


    "Your family as it stands now, I fear, could hardly withstand any more of your meddling. Even if you knew where I was, would you dare to make a move?" Calista continued to taunt.


    Indeed, Mirabelle didn''t dare to make a move against her. Otherwise, she would''ve seized the opportunity to coborate with Quincy back then.


    She had simply led Kallum to the


    room. Strictly speaking, she didn''t participate in Quincy''s n. After the incident, she was constantly worried that Kallum''s wrath would reach her. Because of this, she hadn''t left the house for several days, bing


    So what if she knew where Calista was? She wouldn''t inform the Fairchilds nor would she do anything to harm Calista. Knowing the woman''s whereabouts was meaningless to her.


    So, the carefully crafted text


    message was never sent. After


    ???<ping to terms with her thoughts Mirabelle felt not only lingering anger but also a profound sense of helplessness. Her frustrations piled up, and after a long while, she shouted at her phone, pushed to the brink of madness.

 Chapter 317 You Are Truly Pitiful And Pathetic

    "Why did you call me? Just to gloat? Well, congrattions, you''ve managed to make me despise you even more! You''vepletely ruined everything for me. And if you ever end up in my hands, I''ll make sure you regret the day you were born!" Mirabelle raged. "I ruined everything for you? What exactly did I ruin?" Calista questioned.


    Mirabelle, as if provoked, jumped from the bed, raising her voice, "What did you ruin? You ruined my reputation, my standing. If it weren''t for you, I would be the one married into the Fairchild family right now. You''ve shattered my dreams and destroyed everything I''ve worked for all these years!" "But isn''t this oue something you brought upon yourself?" Calista''s voice was soft and slow. "Wasn''t it you who destroyed me first?"


    Mirabelle was taken aback, her expression instantly bing animated.


    I was the one who plotted against Calista first, but so what? She''s just the daughter of some third-rate family. How can she be on equal standing as me!


    With that thought, Mirabelle questioned, "So, you''re saying... you believe it was my fate to be ruined by you, but it wasn''t right for me to ruin you, because you consider yourself superior to me?"


    Calista chuckled softly, hitting the nail on the head of Mirabelle''s thought. "Are you scared because you think I know you too well?"


    Feeling a bit intimidated, Mirabelle couldn''t admit it. Calista was calm and had the backing of the Fairchild family. She also seemed to understand Mirabelle extremely well. For a moment, Mirabelle despaired, feeling like she could never outmatch Calista in her lifetime. But then, a strange feeling struck her. Why did Calista call me? Is she trying to provoke me and force me into irrational actions only to get rid of me? No, she knows me enough to understand that I won''t risk doing something irrational when my family''s in trouble. So, why then, did she call me? Is it just to gloat? No, Calista wouldn''t act with such arrogance or boredom.


    "I can almost picture your face of defeat right now." Calista''s voice wasced withughter, as if finding joy in Mirabelle''s growing despair and struggle. "How does it feel to be trampled on by someone you have no respect for, left without the strength to fight back? Just imagining your current expression is quite amusing."


    "Did you... have a falling out with Kallum?" Mirabelle''s sudden probing words caught Calista by surprise.


    Seizing onto a sudden realization, Mirabelle eximed loudly, "You had a fight with Kallum, didn''t you? That''s why he was desperately looking for you, and you are avoiding him!"


    It wasn''t hard to guess as almost everyone believed there was a conflict between the two. However, considering the phone call from Calista, things became more delicate.


    Mirabelle spoke with a hint of skepticism, "You had a fight with Kallum, you got hurt, but you had nowhere to vent..." With every word, she grew more certain.


    "Exactly! You''re cornered! You can''t call your father, he simply won''t understand you. And you can''t call anyone else either, they would just hand you over to the Fairchild family for their own gain!" Mirabelle concluded, confident in her assumption.


    She continued, "You only had me to


    turn to, only me! Because no matter how well I performed, the Fairchild family would never ept me again. And due to personal grudges, I''d." rather Kallum spend his entire life unable to find you. So, I was the only one who wouldn''t disclose your whereabouts to them..."


    Suddenly, Mirabelle burst intoughter like a madman. "You must be feeling so alone and helpless right now, with not a soul to vent to! Ha! The fact that you''re calling an enemy who temporarily poses no threat to you just goes to show you have no friends!" Mirabelle''s voice was oddly tinged with excitement as she eximed, "So, when you''re suffering, your only recourse is to provoke your enemies and draw strength from them? How pitiful you are, no! How pathetic you truly are!"


    Calista''s face grew colder by the moment. Her hand, tightly clutching her phone, trembled. It seemed as though she was on the verge of smashing it to the ground any second.


    I have no friends? No one to vent to? Am I so afraid of sadness that I could only draw strength from her enemies during tough times? No... No! If I were to drop my phone, wouldn''t that just confirm Mirabelle''s ridiculous conjecture? "Have you... lost your mind?" Suppressing the tremor in her voice, Calista asked with a cold yetposed tone, "How could you entertain such a ludicrous thought?"


    However, Mirabelle had already affirmed her suspicions. Sheughed so hard that she was practically falling apart; even tears started streaming down her face "Haha! Funny, isn''t it? It is indeed hrious. The thought of you, with no one to share your pain, relying on attacking others and


    boasting-these childish acts, just to hide your fragility, it fills me with pity. You really are pitiful!"


    Frustrated and upset, Calista abruptly hung up the phone and stood up, knocking her breakfast off the table in the process. She didn''t bother about the mess she had made. Frantically, she walked onto the balcony to get some fresh air. Yet, when she saw the drop of over ten floors below, she surprisingly felt an urge to leap off and end it all. Fortunately, she managed to brace herself against the railing in time, suppressing the sudden surge of madness within her.


    I''m pitiful and pathetic? I have


    billions in my bank ount! I''m


    nationally renowned for my genius inText content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    medicine All my enemies are firmly


    under my heel! Moreover, I''m still young, not even twenty! Everyone should be green with envy, how could I possibly be pitiful?

 Chapter 318 Will You Be My Friend

    Gripping the railing tightly, Calista observed as the stream of cars and people below, decreased in size. Her breathing became heavier, and her eyes flickered with uncertainty, unable to shake off the negative emotions that exploded and dispersed in all directions. She felt a sharp pain akin to a needle piercing her temples, and she even "saw" clusters of shadows appearing before her eyes, leaving her gasping for air in a suffocating sensation.


    Suddenly, the sound of a lock turning at the door startled Calista, prompting her to swiftly retreat to a corner of the balcony and instinctively curl herself into a ball. Her heart pounded irregrly, and for a moment, all rational thought deserted her.


    Meanwhile, after Wyatt left, he was gued by constant worry. His secret love for Calista tormented him, and witnessing her current state made it impossible for him to focus on his mission.


    He had walked halfway down the road, only to turn back and return home. However, upon entering, all he could see were leftovers scattered on the floor, with Calista nowhere to be found. "Calista?"


    In a rush, he frantically searched the room, finding the keys and money still on the table. Surely, Calista hadn''t simply left like that, had she?Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, the room was empty. Instinctively, Wyatt moved toward the balcony.


    When he spotted Calista in the corner, he inexplicably breathed a sigh of relief. Yet, the fear in Calista''s eyes made his heart leap into his throat again. "Calista?"


    "Don''te any closer!"


    Suddenly, Calista''s expression turned fierce as she gripped a flower pot, her stance signaling that she wouldn''t hesitate to throw it if Wyatt dared toe closer.


    How could Wyatt possibly ignore her in such a state? He could tell that Calista was greatly upset, and her emotions were quite unstable at the moment. What happened? She was perfectly fine before I left!


    It was uneptable to leave her there. The more she brooded, the more extreme her thoughts might be, especially given the precarious location of the balcony. "Calista,e inside with me. I promise I won''t interfere with you in the room..."


    Wyatt was in a hurry, but his tone remained gentle. Seeing that Calista remained motionless, warily watching him, a stalemate ensued. Biting his teeth, Wyatt gradually moved closer, squatting down and raising both his hands high, afraid that he might intimidate her. Even so, as he drew nearer, Calista''s gaze became increasingly sharp. Her mind was in turmoil, and her body was tense, like a string about to snap.


    Licking his lips nervously, Wyatt slowly approached, leaving about half a meter between them. His voice was gentle as he spoke. "Shall we go in? I''ve made you breakfast-


    But before he could finish speaking, a loud thud echoed as Calista violently smashed the flower pot against his body.


    She had initially aimed for his head, but Wyatt managed to dodge in the nick of time. As a result, the pot struck his shoulder instead, and the shards cut through his head, staining his white T-shirt in a scarlet hue.


    He took a deep breath, holding himself rigid in ce, afraid that any movement might be misinterpreted as a hostile gesture by Calista.


    Seeing his stiffness, Calista visibly rxed, ceasing her aggressive stance. However, her gaze remained sharp as she continued to observe him closely, subconsciously


    §Õ§Ñ§Ý§Ñ


    huddling her knees close to her body for self-protection.


    "Ha..."


    With steely determination, Wyatt inched closer, his clean and handsome face glistening with sweat, yet his eyes unwavering and focused.


    "Now that it''s over, why don''t you join me?" he suggested, tightening his grip before slowly reaching out to Calista. Surprisingly, the sunlight on his palm emitted a warm sensation.


    Calista was nestled in a shady corner, her spot devoid of sunlight. She found herself captivated by his hand, focusing on the glimmer dancing at his fingertips. Unbeknownst to her, tears began to flow from her eyes. Wyatt was taken aback, feeling a sudden wave of emotions. He had never fathomed that Calista would shed tears.


    "Would you... consider being my friend?" Calista''s intense, glistening eyes bore into him as she asked in a husky voice.


    Her cautious expression gradually transformed into one of sadness. It was evident that she hadn''t contemted the prospect-how could someone like Wyatt, a member of the Langley family, ever be friends with her? They were destined to be adversaries in the days toe, and she vowed to never let any enemy slip away.


    However...


    Calista''s tears fell with increasing intensity, her eyes were rimmed with red, as was the tip of her nose. She held herself as if she were holding the entire world. Yet, the look in her eyes yearned for contact with the outside world.


    "Please, be my friend... okay?"


    Unable to bear the bitterness in his heart any longer, Wyatt knelt on one knee, pulling her tightly into his embrace. He then moved her from the corner, into the sunlight.


    Feeling the warmth of the light, Calista suddenly felt the sensation of being pulled into the real world. It was so surreal, she could hardly believe it.


    "You once told me that we could never be friends." Wyatt''s voice, suppressed and subdued, echoed in her ears. "But when you want to be friends with me, I''ll always be willing!" Befriend a Langley?


    At the thought of Wyatt''s face that she had scarred, her expression twisted into a grimace.


    Sensing the shift in her mood, Wyatt quickly carried her into the house.


    Calista struggled fiercely, cries of terror escaping her lips. But she hadn''t eaten in days. No matter how much she wed and bit him, her strength was waning. After Wyatt brought her into the room, he forcefully pinned her down on the couch.

 Chapter 319 I Shall Allow You

    you''re in, but you can''t go near the balcony. I don''t want anyone jumping off my apartment andmitting suicide!"


    "Calm down!" Wyatt''s voice boomed, causing Calista to halt in her tracks, the recent whirlwind of emotions leaving Wyatt somewhat on edge. As he grasped her hand and locked eyes with her, he stressed, "Look, I don''t care what you''re going through or how much pain Maybe it was the intensity in his voice or the mention of "suicide" that jolted Calista back to reality. As she gazed into Wyatt''s eyes, her tense muscles gradually rxed, and in a hoarse whisper she assured, "I''m not going to die, and I definitely won''tmit suicide." "You better not!" Initially, Wyatt had contemted restraining Calista due to her vtile emotions, but witnessing her pallidplexion and the diminishing spark in her eyes made him refrain.


    "So, are you going to get off me?" Calista furrowed her brow, sensing the rigidity in Wyatt''s muscles that made her ufortable.


    The immediate crisis had passed, and upon hearing Calista''s words, Wyatt''s face momentarily flushed with embarrassment before he quickly stepped away.


    Although momentary, the lingering touch of her body and the faint scent of medicinal herbs left him feeling somewhat disoriented even after he had distanced himself. His ears tinged with red, a reaction unnoticed by Calista.


    "Are you fully present now? Do you want me to call a psychiatrist for you?" Wyatt abruptly shut down his inappropriate thoughts and inquired with genuine concern.


    As Calista massaged his temples, her throbbing headache gradually eased, and she wearily remarked, "I won''t contemte suicide in your house."


    "That''s good then..." Upon reflecting, Wyatt moistened his lips, pondering on striking up a conversation with Calista.


    He felt a slight disconnect and wondered whether he should delve into the reasons behind her fallout with Kallum or the situation during his absence. Their strained rtionship stemmed from theplex dynamics between the Stafford and Langley families due to Yelena and Quincy''s involvement.


    Deciding to shift the focus, he offered, "I''ll go whip up some breakfast."


    Observing the noticeable bruise on Wyatt''s neck, Calista couldn''t help but notice his injuries. "I think we should address your wounds first," she suggested, gesturing towards his injuries. Only then did Wyatt acknowledge his difort. Realizing the importance of self-care, he retrieved a first aid kit and began to tend to his injuries, his movements appearing somewhat rigid. As Calista''s gaze fixated on the bloodstains on Wyatt''s shoulder, she suddenly voiced a piercing question, "What would your stance be if I ever decided to kill that old geezer, Matthew?"


    Pausing for a moment, Wyatt


    resumed attending to his wounds as


    he exined, "My grandfather, has


    been an integral part of my life,


    l.ne


    earning me the respect and responsibilities thate with being


    a part of the Langley family


    "So, you''d stand by him, even if it meant going against me?" she questioned.


    "That''s right," he affirmed, opting for honesty.


    "What if hemitted an unforgivable act? Would it be wrong for me to desire retribution?"


    Wyatt fixed his gaze on Calista, his expression serious. "If he hasmitted a crime, he will face the legal consequences. You didn''t have to tell me this. I... would have taken him into custody myself!"


    Calista let out a soft chuckle as she gently took the alcohol and cotton ball from Wyatt''s hand. Tilting her head slightly, she spoke sincerely. "Before our fallout, I shall allow you to be my friend." Her frown conveyed a sense of reluctant concession as she continued, "But to be my friend, you must show me unwavering respect, stand by my side, assist me through my troubles, and yield to me." Wyatt''s suddenughter had a reassuring warmth to it, bringingfort to the tense atmosphere. "What you''re describing sounds more like a boyfriend than a friend."


    Calista, usuallyposed, felt a tinge of embarrassment for the first time as she prepared to tend to Wyatt''s wounded hand. Is that so? He''s not... teasing me, is he?


    Recognizing the turbulence beneath Calista''s typically cold facade, Wyatt felt a sense of satisfaction knowing that she had emerged from her emotional turmoil without external intervention.


    "Of course, as your friend, I would do all these for you," he assured her, with a determination to go above and beyond for her.


    After studying him for a moment, Calista responded with a nomittal hum and quietly tended to his wounds. Her previous overwhelming negative emotions were now buried deep within her mind. She wasn''t fragile, just suppressed, and while she appreciated Wyatt''s support, she was determined to find her own way out of her emotional struggle, even if he hadn''t intervened. And so, Wyatt had brought her back to reality.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista wasn''t an ingrate. She acknowledged his kindness and chose not to associate him with the rest of the Langley family. Her previous aversion toward him had stemmed from his inability toprehend Quincy''s actions, but she was willing to reconsider her stance.

 Chapter 320 Calista Is Found

    As for Kallum, Calista simply scoffed while meticulously bandaging Wyatt''s wound.


    "Do you still want to eat something?"


    After tending to his wounds, Calista naturally wouldn''t expect a sick person to cook for her. Despite having not eaten for several days and struggling to even dress his wounds, she was ustomed to putting on a brave face. No one could ever tell how she was truly feeling.


    For some unknown reason, Wyatt was in high spirits. His eyes nced at Calista''s stomach with an indiscernible look. "So, you''re finally hungry. I''ll cook. I''ve only injured my left hand, not my right one."


    After he finished speaking, he promptly pushed Calista onto the couch without giving her a chance to respond.


    Seeing him turn toward the kitchen, Calista was initially taken aback, but then she suddenly felt a sense of ease. Wyatt had matured significantly since a year ago, though the cause of this development remained unknown. Meanwhile, after finally managing to sleep for an hour, Kallum was abruptly awakened by the ringing of his phone.


    "Mr. Kallum, the drone has captured footage of Ms. Calista!"


    Flynn''s voice was filled with excitement. The drone was merely his idea to help, but in the brief glimpse it caught over the city, it managed to capture an image of Calista, which was a delightful surprise. Kallum quickly regained his senses.


    "Send the video over!"


    As he spoke, he turned on theputer, immediately receiving a video feed. There, on a balcony, Calista was seen, her head bowed low as she leaned on the railing.


    The screen flickered momentarily. Due to the drone''s programmed settings, it was set to scan for Calista''s face. However, Calista had her head lowered at the time and her face was not captured, thus it was merely a fleeting glimpse. However, one image was enough. After freezing the video, Kallum was quite certain that it was indeed her.


    "Find out where this ce is and get the car ready!"


    As he was getting dressed, he was simultaneously issuing orders, wishing he could instantly teleport to Calista''s side.


    He had a myriad of questions for her, but the moment he found her, his only concern was her well-being. Nothing else mattered. The most important thing was that she was unharmed.


    Meanwhile, Calista had no idea that Mirabelle hadn''t exposed her, but Kallum still managed to find her. She was currently standing at the doorway, watching Wyatt prepare breakfast. Although it was called breakfast, it was already close to ten o''clock. Suddenly, Calista felt an intense pang of hunger.


    At that moment, Wyatt was meticulously cracking eggs one by one. With utmost care, he managed to crack an egg into the pan using just one hand. Seeing Calista watching, he seemed eager to prove his capability.


    With a smile, he said, "Don''t worry, cracking an egg with one hand is my forte!"


    As he spoke, he picked up the second egg. However, he exerted too much forge and bits of eggshell fell into the pan. He hurriedly tried to scoop them out with a spat, butit was toote. The egg had already merged with the first one. Wyatt broke the egg, hoping to remove the shells, but the egg had shattered into pieces and he couldn''t find where the shells were. Instead, a faint scent of burning rose from the pan. The egg was now scorched...


    Wyatt felt a bit awkward, clearing his throat subtly. Immediately, he discarded the egg he was holding, wiped the pan clean, and fetched another egg.


    "I just made a mistake."


    However, the fresh egg seemed to be challenging him. No matter what he did, he just couldn''t crack it open perfectly with one hand.


    Calista never expected that Wyatt, a police officer, would have such an amusing side. She walked over and rescued the unfortunate cracked egg from his hands, sessfully getting it into the pot.


    As the aroma of the eggs wafted


    through the air, Calista was


    suddenly hit by a wave of nostalgia. There was a time when she lived alone, without being surrounded by wait staff. She would cook for


    herself, and sometimes she even felt that the happiest moments of her


    life


    were those when she was


    preparing delicious meals on her


    own.


    When did it all begin? She found herself increasingly unable to feel joy. Life, for her, had turned into a monotonous existence, with asional bursts of excitement that were fleeting at best.


    So, the grueling three years I''ve spent at the research institute had such a profound effect on my psyche? She had always believed that as long as she persevered and didn''t give up, she wouldn''t be affected and end up like the other subjects who lost their sanity.


    "Let me do it." Calista suddenly expressed an interest in frying the egg. "I''m actually quite good at cooking, would you like to try it?"


    Wyatt was skeptical. In their social circle, it was rare for someone to cook for themselves. Most had housekeepers to do it. Calista can actually cook, and her culinary skills are good?


    With this thought, he dimmed his gaze, indirectly confirming that she had endured much hardship that she didn''t have to.


    Seeing that Wyatt did not respond, Calista subconsciously prepared his portion as well. The eggs were fried to a crispy perfection, with just right amount of saltiness.


    Coincidentally, both Calista al Peel


    Wyatt shared the same preference for their eggs to be fried until the yolks were well done.


    When Calista spotted some pasta, she decided against having bread and prepared two bowls of pasta carbonara instead. As the finely chopped green onions and eggs nketed the creamy white pasta, Wyatt couldn''t help but salivate even though he had already had breakfast. Catching a glimpse of the thinyer of sweat on Calista''s forehead, Wyatt then realized just how taxing it was for someone who hadn''t eaten for several days to make breakfast.


    "Sorry, I should have been the one to do it."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista returned to the small living room, carrying two bowls of pasta, and spoke with a casual tone.


    "It''s okay, I''d feel really bad if you had to cook for me while you''re injured."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 321 No Longer Wish To Marry You

    It would make me really happy to have cooked for you.


    Wyatt didn''t voice these words, especially when Calista was watching him cook. In fact, his heart would even race. He felt that this was what an ideal home should be like. "Give it a try?" Calista offered him a fork.


    After taking a bite, Wyatt found the taste to be delightful. It was perfectly seasoned, neither too salty nor too nd. The aroma of the pasta, harmoniously blended with the scents of green onions and eggs, was simply irresistible. It wouldn''t be an exaggeration to say that even a five-star hotel chef wouldn''t be able to make pasta as delicious as Calista did using these three ingredients.


    Seeing Wyatt''s approval, Calista suddenly felt a sense of validation, her lips curving into a smile.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    "If you like it, finish it!"


    Wyatt chuckled. "I''m afraid it''s not enough."


    Calista pulled her bowl closer to herself, feigning protectiveness over her food as he said, "I want to eat too. There''re no extras."


    With that, both of them shared augh. Once they put their prejudices aside, Wyatt turned out to be quite a decent person.


    Coincidentally, this was also because Wyatt had saved and taken care of her. Although Calista appeared to be cold and tough on the outside, in reality, she was quite soft-hearted. She was the kind of person who would always return kindness with even greater kindness. However, the tranquil moment didn''tst long. The abrupt sound of knocking at the door caused Calista''s smile to freeze.


    "This is strange. The property management here is quite strict. Apart from residents bringing in guests, no one else can get in. I don''t even know the neighbors here..."


    Despite his remark, Wyatt still went to open the door. Being a police officer, he wasn''t afraid of anything. However, considering Calista''s unique situation, he took a quick nce through the peephole. Just one look, and his expression changed instantly. "It''s... Kallum."


    Calista paused mid-bite, her gaze burning intensely as she looked at Wyatt.


    "Should I open the door?"


    Wyatt''s emotions were a bitplicated.


    In truth, the question was moot. Kallum''s arrival meant that he was certain Calista was there. Even if Wyatt didn''t open the door, there were a hundred ways for those outside to force it open. Hence, Calista didn''t hesitate at all.


    "Go ahead and open it," she said, even though she wasn''t quite ready to face Kallum yet.


    As soon as the door swung open, Kallum''s gaze instantlynded on Calista in the living room. Ignoring Wyattpletely, he strode toward Calista, only to be blocked by Wyatt.


    From behind, Quintus snapped, "Mr. Wyatt, know your ce. Ms. Stafford is the Mr. Kallum''s fianc¨¦e. You have no right to interfere!"


    Kallum looked at Calista with concern, but she didn''t meet his gaze. He withdrew his gaze in frustration, ring at Wyatt.


    "What did you do to her?"


    "That''s a question I should be asking you!"


    The blissful solitude was abruptly interrupted, leaving Wyatt just as furious as Kallum.


    His demeanor shifted dramatically as he questioned angrily, "Do you have any idea where I found her? On the side of the road! She was


    ??


    burning up with a fever and on the brink of death! What on earth did you do? Why was she so distressed? You im to care about her, is this how you show it, by causing her pain?"


    "Don''t stick your nose into our affairs."


    After delivering his icy words, Kallum headed toward Calista. Wyatt wanted to intervene, but Quintus and the others stopped him in his tracks.


    "Kallum, don''t provoke her!" Wyatt


    was held back by a few people, leaving no choice but to shout, "She''s emotionally unstable. She even thought of jumping off the balcony this morning!"


    This wasn''t him scaremongering at all but a genuine hunch. Calista''s previously erratic emotions had made this clear.


    Upon hearing that Calista was contemting suicide, Kallum''s breath hitched. He quickly moved to her side, yet he dared not touch her.


    "Callie?"


    He gently touched her shoulder, his tone gradually rxing. "I''m here. I''vee to get you. Regardless of whatever I''ve done wrong, can we go home first?"


    "I can go back if you want."


    Only then did Calista lift her head, gazing steadily at him.


    "However, I have one request."


    A sudden sense of unease sprouted in Kallum''s heart. He asked anxiously, "What do you want me to do?"


    Calista said very calmly, "I want to call off the wedding."


    Kallum was taken aback.


    "Put simply, I no longer wish to marry you."


    Calista''s calm words dealt Kallum a devastating blow, leaving him breathless and in pain. He tried his best to control his emotions as he demanded, "Why?"


    Thinking back to the fortress-like


    research institute, the sea of


    rosemary flowers, the three unbearable years that were a living hell, and the nightmare-like memories of her reincarnation, a hostile glint gradually surfaced in Calista''s eyes.


    "Because, I don''t have feelings for you anymore."


    This statement was an absolute blow to Kallum. How is it possible to just not like someone because they say so?


    There was no way that Kallum would believe that all those years were a lie.


    "Come home with me!"


    Kallum seized Calista''s hand, his gentleness toward her abruptly reced by a sense of assertiveness.


    At that moment, a surge of determination erupted within Calista as she stood her ground against him. "I''ll only go back if you agree to cancel the wedding!" "In your dreams!"


    Kallum tightened his grip on her hand, a sudden sh of anger surfacing in his eyes. "The wedding is just a week away, Calista! Are you screwing with me?" "If you insist on an answer, then yes!"

 Chapter 322 Facing Her Fears

    As soon as Calista affirmed with a single "yes," the tension in the room skyrocketed. Everyone fell silent, and as Kallum''s anger escted, it felt as though the air itself had frozen still. "What are you doing?" Calista suddenly cried out as Kallum unexpectedly hoisted her up by her waist, striding toward the exit.


    "Kallum, put me down!"


    Calista''s strength was no match for him, and by this point, she was also infuriated.


    "I am a free individual. I don''t belong to you! On what grounds are you taking me away?"


    "We''re about to get married!" Kallum held her even tighter, a flicker of pain shing in the depths of his eyes, quickly overshadowed by anger. "You''ve been mine for a long time already!" Wyatt wanted to intervene, but he was powerless despite his eagerness. All he could do was to call out anxiously.


    "Kallum! Calista is emotionally unstable right now, your actions will only make her condition worse!"


    For a moment, Kallum''s steps faltered, but he resolutely continued on, taking Calista with him.


    "My woman has never been this fragile!"


    After he finished speaking, he decisively took her away.


    "Jerk! I told you it''s over between us. Now let go of me!"


    Calista cursed all the way in the elevator. It was probably the most expressive she had ever been. She put up a solid front against Kallum, but behind her sharp demeanor, there was a sense of fear. If I fall out with Kallum, would I really be his enemy?


    Forced into the car, Calista''s unease intensified, but soon after, Kallum entered and held her tightly.


    Theforting embrace carried a fresh scent, yet he trembled slightly as he held her.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ""Calm down!"


    His breaths were quick and shallow, his voice gradually softening. "Calm down, okay? Can we go home?"


    After being embraced, Calista actually fell silent. She didn''t say a word, and in the end, simply closed her eyes.


    "Callie..." There had never been a moment when Kallum felt she was so emotionally distant from him. He cautiously kissed her forehead, his expression filled with pain and helplessness.


    "I understand you''re feeling awful right now. Is there anything troubling you that I can help resolve? I''ve sought out the best psychologist. No matter what your fears are, we''ll help you ovee them!" "So, you think I''m mad now, assuming all my actions are because I''ve lost my mind?" Calista sneered, opening her eyes to look at him. "And yet, you''re still sticking by a lunatic. I''m truly touched." "Callie!" Atst, Kallum couldn''t contain his anger any longer, ring at her furiously.


    "What did I do wrong, why did you suddenly, just so suddenly..."


    "I''m aware of my mistakes... the reasons I had to go through all this." Calista''s self-mocking tone wasced with profound sorrow, causing Kallum to instantly calm down. He could sense that even though her reasons were unclear-Calista''s pain was far greater than his


    own.


    Realizing that if the issue was not addressed, Calista might be pushed further away by him, Kallum fell silent for a moment before suddenly making a decision. "Change of ns, we''re heading to the research center!"


    Quintus, who was driving, hesitated for a moment before changing the route. However, he didn''t agree with it. Ms. Calista has been traumatized there once before. Wouldn''t this be making things worse? Just as expected, Calista was extremely resistant. The moment she heard Kallum mention a change of course, her eyes widened, and her voice became sharp.


    "I''m not going there!"


    However, Kallum had made up his mind. His persistence filled Calista''s eyes with despair, and she reached out to open the car door.


    "What are you doing? This is dangerous! Quintus, lock the door!"


    Luckily, Kallum was quick to react. He swiftly closed the slightly ajar car door. Did she actually want to jump out of the car?


    "I want to get out! I refuse to go there!"


    Calista began to lose control over her emotions again. She felt trapped, her eyes red-rimmed. She clutched onto Kallum''s clothes, her grip tight and unyielding. "Jerk! Let me go!"


    "No way!" Kallum became even more adamant. "You muste with me!"


    The principle he lived by was simple-wherever one fell down, one had to get back up. In essence, she had to face whatever she feared.


    The car sped toward the outskirts, and as they drew closer, Calista''s emotions transitioned from being all worked up to an increasing calmness, eventually settling into a sense of numbness. "Tell me, what are you afraid of?"


    What Kallum truly longed to know was the answer to the question. At the very least, it would enlighten him about his mistakes and what he had missed out.


    Calista didn''t respond. As the scenery became more and more familiar, she grew increasingly silent.


    Having been reincarnated, she never


    once considered going back to that ce. It was a nightmare she always tried to avoid. As such, she didn''t seek revenge on those researchers, choosing instead to bury their faces along with those memories. Yet, Kallum forced her to


    refive the past, pushing her to


    confront her darkest memories.


    "Calista, look at me..." Kallum couldn''t bear her silence any longer. He gently held her chin,pelling her to meet his gaze.


    "What are you afraid of? Just tell me.


    I''m your husband, the closest person to you in your life. I promised to protect you from all harm. You can trust me. Please, tell me what''s hurting you, okay?"


    Observing his shimmering eyes, Calista drew in a deep breath.


    "What if I were to tell you that it was you who hurt me?"

 Chapter 323 The Revelation

    Kallum was taken aback, immediately refuting, "That''s impossible!"


    At that moment, Quintus interrupted with a tremble in his voice. "Mr. Kallum, we''re here."


    Calista turned her head and sure enough, she was greeted by an expansive sea of flowers. Pointing toward them, she said, "You knew all along that everything here would hurt me, yet you still forced me toe. Isn''t that causing harm?"


    Kallum furrowed his brows. "I just want you to confront it, running away won''t solve anything!"


    "What if the oue is that we be enemies?" Suddenly, Calistaughed. "Let me ask you, if going in there again would drive me mad, would you still force me to go?"


    This time, it was Kallum''s turn to remain silent for a long while. "I will!"


    He suddenly spoke, catching Calista off guard. Yet, he spoke with an unwavering tone, emphasizing each word. "Because you''re not one to lose your sanity. You''re not that fragile. After all, you''re the one who can drive me to madness. How could you possibly be defeated by something imaginary?"


    Calista was taken aback, about to say something, when Kallum silenced her with a kiss.


    This time, he exerted a great deal of strength, pinning Calista down onto the seat and kissing her with a fervor close to madness. He had already wanted to do this back at Wyatt''s house. The days without her had nearly driven him to insanity. However, Calista resisted it.


    She struggled vehemently, but every move she made was countered by him. When she tried to kick him away, Kallum simply held down her legs. When she attempted to push him away, he seized both her hands above her head. In the end, all Calista could do was to try to bite him, but Kallum used his other hand to lock her jaw, preventing her from clenching her teeth. She was forced to keep her mouth open. Powerless to resist his kiss, she was being drawn by him into a whirlwind of madness.


    They hadn''t shared a kiss this intense in a long time. This kiss was charged with pent-up frustration, yet it was incredibly tender, as if they were facing the end of the world.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    After their kiss, Kallum looked down at her, his handsome face filled with a mixture of bitterness and self-mockery.


    "Can you feel it?" He pointed to his own heart. "I am the one who''s going crazy!"


    Calista gasped for breath, seemingly scorched by his intense gaze. She quickly pushed him away and without looking back, she exited the car.


    "Come in with me!"


    She hadn''t walked far when Kallum caught her hand. At that moment, Calista felt a wave of anxiety and confusion. She looked at him, almost pleadingly. It was the first time she had ever felt fear. "Kallum! Kallum, can we not go in, please?"


    "No, you must confront it! Unless you tell me, what is it that you''re afraid of!"


    Left with no choice, Calista took a step forward, wrapping her arms around his waist to stop him. "Once you know, there''s no going back? Would you still want to know?"


    "I need to know, Calista, I need to know everything about you!"


    Kallum wore a stern expression, leaning in close to her ear. Each word he uttered was firm and unwavering.


    "I''ve had enough of guessing! If you know me, then you should realize that I despise things beyond my control. I need to know the truth. That''s right, I should have been told the truth a long time ago!" Had he known everything earlier, none of this would have happened.


    Calista''s body subtly trembled, her voice dropping to a whisper. "Is the truth really that important?"


    "Of course it is! Everything concerning you is important..."


    After Kallum finished speaking, he firmly grabbed Calista''s hand and led her inside, leaving everyone else behind. They all watched the pair with concern.


    Quintus suddenly had a bad feeling.


    Kallum had been under too much


    pressure these past few days,


    causing him to be excessively


    irritable and now, overly aggrel


    Going in like this... might not yield the oue he desires.


    The moment Calista stepped into the field of rosemary flowers, she abruptly ceased her struggle. All her fears, apprehensions, sense of helplessness, and unease seemed to have been left outside. However, Kallum didn''t pay much heed to these changes. His only desire was to lead her into the building. If Calista understood his intentions, she would have been touched, not afraid. He was convinced that once Calista stepped inside, no matter what she feared, she wouldn''t resist him anymore.


    The two of them hurriedly traversed through the huge field, with Calista being led along. Her head was bowed, and she was lost in her own thoughts, unsure of what was running through her mind.


    The fortress-like structure still stood tall. Its grand architecture had been built by Kallum''s subordinates. However, the living quarters were personally overseen by him, and he believed that Calista would definitely love it.


    Stepping into the ce once again, Calista felt a chill at the very first step she took. The cold seemed to have awakened something, causing her body to shudder.


    Her eyes widened as numerous long-buried details resurfaced in her mind, ying out like a movie. They were so vivid. It was as if they had happened just yesterday.


    Thest time she set foot on these steps, she was being dragged in by someone.


    Involuntarily, Calista''s gaze fell onto the stone pir outside the door. She had once cfung onto the pir in desperation, all in a bid to dy the inevitable because she knew once she entered, there would be na turning back. Just as expected, she never dide out in the end.


    Kallum oddly tugged at her, but Calista suddenly broke free from his grip.


    "If you want me to go in, then let me walk in there myself."


    Her sudden return to calmness unsettled Kallum a bit, but havinge this far, he wasn''t the type to back down.


    He gave Calista aplex look. "Alright, let''s go in."


    Then, he led the way by opening the front door.

 Chapter 324 Learning The Truth

    Kallum''s subordinates were incredibly reliable. They had renovated the entire research institute with an impressive grandeur. Moreover, they adopted a minimalist and efficient style. Working there, one would definitely feelfortable.


    Thest time Calista was brought there, she was taken directly underground and had never emerged since even after her death. Now, as she walked around, observing the decor and arrangement of the above-ground area, she couldn''t help but nod in approval. It was truly a wonderful ce, especially for a researcher like her. There was no location more peaceful nor ayout more to her liking.


    However, Kallum did not pay attention to all these. He directly took Calista to the rest area that was prepared for her. The entire third floor was her exclusive personal space.


    Upon entering, Calista was greeted by a hint of floral scent. It turned out that roses were used to adorn the entrance. However, after a few days, most of the roses had withered. If she hade earlier, she would have seen them at their most beautiful blossom. Upon entering, the path was surprisingly paved with flower petals. The tension in Kallum''s shoulders eased instantly. He looked at Calista, his gaze intensely focused.


    "At the very least, you should take a look around here. The reason I renovated this ce was to make you happy. My true intent was to bring you joy."


    Calista remained silent, simply shifting her gaze elsewhere.


    Kallum felt a bit disheartened, but he quickly cheered up. "Look here. This is the living room. You once mentioned wanting a living room filled with sunlight. Do you like these floor-to-ceiling windows? I''ve also made special arrangements outside using the principle of refraction. As long as the sunes out, your living room will be the first ce to light up."


    Seeing Calista''s indifferent demeanor, Kallum redoubled his efforts and led her to the bedroom.


    The bedroom was arranged in an incredibly cozy manner, with warm colors that starkly contrasted the study outside. The most noticeable feature was undoubtedly the four-meter-wide super king-sized bed. Even without touching it, one could sense its softness. Atop it was a huge heart shape made of flowers. Although that method was a bit clich¨¦, it was undeniably effective.


    "You mentioned that pale yellow is rxing, so that''s the color of the walls. You said you wanted a soft,rge bed, and I''m sure it will satisfy you. And there''s more..."


    Kallum slowly recounted. All the preparations he had made were based on the subtle hints he had picked up from Calista''s preferences, especially therge bed. Kallum''s gaze dimmed momentarily. Thest time he was there, he had thought that he could make Calista happy and im her virginity before marriage on that bed.


    Aside from being fully equipped as a home, the ce also had a gym, a surround-sound cinema, a wine cer, and a study, all meticulously organized. The wine and the books were all to Calista''s taste. The clothes were made of her most frequently worn fabric. Even the coffee cups used for guests were her favorite porcin ones.


    If that hadn''t been the ce where she had died and if none of those events had urred, Calista believed she would have been truly delighted. She was genuinely fond of that ce, and there was someone who cared enough to remember all her habits and preferences and steadfastly cater to them.


    That was a feeling of stark dissonance, a profound contradiction. It seemed to cleave her icy heart into two halves. One half was writhing in pain, the other struggling fiercely. Her rationality remained silent while her emotional side was shrieking.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Kallum did get one thing right.


    Calista wasn''t losing her mind, and


    she wasn''t as fragile as she had thought. Before she entered, it felt as if her heart was being clenched, leaving her breathless. However, once she was inside, she turned rmingly calm.


    If there was any difference, it probably resided deep within her heart in the form of sorrow. A profound and deep-rooted sorrow Perhaps the heavens couldn''t bear to see her joy. Even after bestowing her with joy, they cruelly snatched it away. Perhaps all of that was intentional, a long-nned


    conspiracy aimed at her.


    "Don''t you like any of these?"


    After they took a look around the ce, Kallum''s hope was gradually crushed. Although Calista was listening, Kallum couldn''t discern a hint of joy in her demeanor.


    For the first time in his life, he felt defeated. He desperately wanted to grab Calista by the cor and demand an exnation.


    However, as he looked into her indifferent eyes, he found himself unable to utter a single word, as if all his strength had been drained away.


    "This ce is nice."


    Calista''s words ignited a spark in Kallum''s eyes as if they had breathed new life into him.


    "I''ve seen your sincerity, so let me ask you again. Do you really want to know why I''ve treated you this way? Once the truth is spoken, there''s no turning back. Even so, do you still want to know?"


    As Kallum listened to Calista''s words, a sudden sense of uncertainty welled up within him. Particrly when Calista''s gaze met his, he felt as if something deep within his mind was moring, pleading for him not to uncover the truth. "I want to know." In the end, his desire to learn the truth to know prevailed.


    Calista squinted her eyes, then suddenly broke into a smile. "Since you''ve already shown me around, now it''s my turn to reciprocate the gesture."


    She''s nning to show me around? The familiar sense of peculiarity surfaced within Kallum once again. Calista has never been here before, so what is she going to show me?


    After Calista had led him out, they took the elevator to the first floor. Kallum initially thought that Calista was going to take him outside, but she didn''t. Instead, Calista led him through a maze of corridors to a very concealed door. Upon opening the door and entering, Kallum found that it was merely a storage room.

 Chapter 325 You Imagined All These

    However, Calista didn''t stop. Instead, she led him to a corner of the warehouse. From what seemed like a seamless wall, she suddenly pushed open a door. "Here?"


    Kallum quickly realized something. Calista was studying the K virus, so when Quintus asked Kallum about it, he told Quintus to build an underground space. However, he hadn''t had the chance to inquire about the underground space, so Kallum wondered how Calista knew about it.


    They descended in the elevator, and the moment the elevator doors slid open, Calista turned to him with a smile and spoke. "Wee to the underground space. Trust me, it''s even more thrilling than the world above."Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    All the equipment had been set up, all in preparation for studying the K virus, so there wasn''t much difference from what Calista remembered. If anything had to be pointed out, it was that this batch of equipment was even better and more advanced. From the moment they stepped in, the entire underground space was suddenly bathed in light. Calista pointed upward. "The first thing I want to introduce you to is part of the voice control system. Did you know..." She paused briefly, curving her lips into a slight smile. "To prevent the people below from being kept in the dark from any unexpected incidents happening above, this audio system is designed in a particrly intriguing manner. If someone speaks from above, those below can hear every word crystal clear. However, if there''s chaos down below, those above wouldn''t hear a thing. Therefore, when I first arrived, I heard noises from above and initially thought it was due to poor sound instion. Once, during a routine inspection by a prosecutor, I broke my silence and started shouting. However, the people outside continued to talk as if nothing had happened. The researchers around me watched me with amusement, not even attempting to stop me. They let me yell for half an hour. That was the first time I felt despair."


    When Calista started speaking, Kallum listened intently. However, she suddenly interjected with a story that clearly wasn''t hers, leaving him utterly bewildered.


    Kallum didn''t hastily interrupt her. Instead, he listened attentively. He suspected that Calista''s psychological issue was likely a form of delusion and hallucination. However, that didn''t exin how she was so familiar with that ce.


    As Kallum ruminated, his thoughts deeply unsettled him. However, Calista didn''t grant him the time to dwell on them. Instead, she swiftly led him to another location.


    "Check this out," Calista said, pressing something nearby. Suddenly, a small passage appeared. "This passage served as an emergency exit. I once saw someone use it and managed to remember how it worked. They brought me here for an experiment once, and in the middle of the night, I seized the opportunity to bite through my restraints. I ran toward this ce like a madman. I was so, so close to escaping through here." She chuckled lightly before continuing, "However, needless to say, I failed in the end. Subsequently, they sealed off this ce. The price I paid was that they broke my leg so I could no longer escape."


    Though she wasughing, her smile appeared so rigid under the bright lights. This gave Kallum an eerie sense of reality, as if all of this had truly happened before. But how could it be possible? There''s no way Calista could have gone through all this! "And also here..." Calista led Kallum further in.


    "This is an incubator specifically


    used to nurture a certain type of fungus. It''s a privilege exclusively mine." Calista''s fingers lightly skimmed over the device, her expression inscrutable. "After I


    Ove


    contracted the K virus, it became dormant due to my unique physiology. This made it difficult to study without my cooperation. However, if I ingested this type of fungal powder, the virus inside me would surge to its peak activity. Therefore, even without my cooperation, they could still obtain the data they wanted."


    Upon saying that, she paused, and her smile widened further. "Of course, it does have a minor side effect. It intensifies my pain, causes muscle atrophy, and severe dehydration. So, even though they spared no expense on my nutrition, I still ended up looking skin and bones in a very short time." She touched her own face, grinning softly. "Do you think I''m beautiful now?"


    Kallum was initially unsettled by her previous statement. Upon hearing her question, he looked at her in bewilderment for a moment before he finally responded seriously, "Beautiful. You''re very beautiful."


    He found her so beautiful that there were times when he didn''t want to take Calista out simply because he didn''t want to share her beauty with anyone else.


    Calista pursed her lips and patted her own face in slight embarrassment. "You probably can''t picture me, all skin and bones, covered in frightening shades of blue and purple, almost like a zombie."


    "That''s enough!" The very thought


    was unbearable to Kallum. How


    could someone I cherish with all my heart be tormented to such a state by others? Gaunt, withered muscles, broken legs! How could such things have possibly happened to Calista? I would make sure anyone who dared to do this paid a horrendous price a hundred times over!


    "Why aren''t you speaking?" Calista tilted her head. "Didn''t you want to know the truth?"


    "All of this isn''t real!" Kallum urgently grasped her hand, only to find it icy cold, which made him hold on even tighter.


    He wasn''t sure if he was trying to


    convince himself or others, but he repeated himself once more. "All of this isn''t real! Callie, you''re just


    all in your imagination. You must


    Quintus'' ce, and then yt''s


    have seen the design ns at


    imagined all these terrifying


    illusions. None of it is true."

 Chapter 326 Uncovering The Truth

    Calista looked at him steadily, then after a moment, she shook her head with a smile. "For the first time, I realized that you, too, have moments where you escape from reality."


    She spoke with an air of ease. "Broken legs and muscle atrophy are nothing. Keep walking with me, and I''ll show you many more interesting things."


    As Calista spoke, she led Kallum inward.


    "I''m not going!" He grasped Calista''s arm in a hurry. "You''re not allowed to go either! Your illness is severe. I''m taking you to see a doctor."


    "What about the truth? Don''t you want to know the truth?"This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Kallum had never felt such regret before. He wished desperately he could turn back time. "I don''t want to know anymore. I don''t want to know anything! Callie, as long as you''re with me, I don''t need to know anything else." Despite his denial, the way he looked at Calista as he spoke was filled with sorrow and panic. He chose to believe, as there was no other way to exin everything that had happened.


    However, he no longer wished to know the details. All he wanted now was to keep Calista by his side and let all those d*mn things vanish into thin air.


    Calista chuckled lightly. "So, you still believe me."


    She sped his hand in return, a smile gracing her lowered gaze. "But now that it''s been said, we can''t turn back, can we? Why don''t we continue, then? I just asked you, If there''s no going back, would you still want to know the truth? You said yes. You wanted to know." Kallum''s palms were sweaty; he had messed up once again. He shouldn''t havee, let alone entered.


    "Have you calmed down? Now, are you ready to hear me out?"


    The possibility of losing Calista filled him with dread. Yet, as Calista had said, once something was spoken, there was no turning back. His only options were to choose between gaining a clearer understanding or remaining in the dark.


    After a lengthy silence, Kallum, despite the piercing pain in his heart, looked at her numb yet eerily smiling face and asked in a deep voice, "So, are you still Calista?"


    At that moment, Kallum began to understand many oddities. If Calista was not Calista, her drastic change in temperament could be easily exined. However, there were simrities between the Calista of now and the past, making it somewhat far-fetched to im she wasn''t the same person.


    "I am Calista, but simultaneously, I''m also not her." Calista chuckled, her voice echoing in the underground, carrying an ethereal quality. "You could never possibly imagine how many years I''ve loved you. In our past life, I loved you for over twenty years, But you didn''t love me. That''s all right. No one said that love always yields results. Moreover, since there were so many misunderstandings between us in our previous life and how you disregarded me, I had no chance to exin. The growing distance between us seemed like an inevitable oue."


    At that point, her formerly gentle demeanor changed dramatically, turning somber. "But I never anticipated that the person who once seemed so out of my reach would also be one of the ones to cause me harm. Someone caused me to be infected with K Virus, and was captured and brought here to be inhumanely studied for three years. Three years. Do you have any idea what I ended up looking like? A zombie, a drowned corpse, a piece of trash. Maybe even worse... Yet, this ce is the Fairchild family''s ancestral property!" Calista suddenly let out a sneer. ¡°Can you believe it? I always thought you were harmless, but I was tormented for three years in your ancestral property. How could you have not known? I loved you so much, so very much. Yet, after knowing my situation, you never once extended a helping hand to me."


    Observing the sudden pallor on Kallum''s face, Calistaughed, her conjectures growing even more malicious! "Perhaps you knew from the very beginning. Back then, your cousin had contracted the K virus. He must havee to you for help. Then, Someone told you that I was a special infected individual. Sacrificing me, who was already infected, to save others is a no-loss deal no matter how you see it, isn''t it? As long as you spare my life, and once you seed, you could just reimburse me and return me my freedom. That way, you wouldn''t feel like you wronged me, am I right?"


    no


    Kallum''s heart clenched in anxiety. He stumbled backward, colliding with a piece of equipment. Instinctively, he retorted, "So, this is just your spection. You can''t be sure that I was aware of this matter. Maybe I wasn''t involved at all."


    However, his exnation was far too feeble. The likelihood that he was unaware of the events that had transpired with the ancestral property of the Fairchild family was incredibly slim.


    Even if he was unaware, it could only be because he didn''t care, so he left the task to someone else. Yet, the sheer indifference was more than enough to make Calista despise him. Kallum thought. That''s right. That''s enough to make her resent me.


    "I have no proof." Upon hearing his words, Calista continued to smile, but her eyes reddened and became filled with malice. "Still, as long as this piece ofnd is yours, it''s enough for me to cancel the wedding."


    She shook her head, a bitter smile ying on her lips. "I guess you already knew, didn''t you? You just didn''t care. After all, I was just your unwanted fianc¨¦e. Whether I lived or died, what did it matter? Since I contracted the K virus, not only could you save others by using


    me, but it also gave me a chance to survive. Your conscience wouldn''t be affected in the slightest because when you despise someone, you won''t bother to think too much about them."


    Kallum clenched his eyes shut, a desperate wish coursing through him. He wished none of this had ever happened. If only I hadn''t brought her here. If only none of these events have taken ce.


    "Callie..." He walked toward her, suddenly pulling her into a tight embrace. It seemed that only in this way he could feel that she was still his.

 Chapter 327 Call Off The Wedding

    fair to me!"


    "You''ve said it yourself, Callie! All of those were matters of a previous life! Whatever I did in that previous life has no bearing on this one because it never happened. And now, you want to hold the mistakes I made in my previous life against me in this one? That simply isn''t "You''re right. You should be grateful that you''ve never done anything to wrong me in this lifetime."


    Calista gently chuckled next to his ear as she was held in his embrace.


    "I''ve already crushed whose who wronged me in their previous life and in this one. It''s precisely because you''ve been good to me in this life, and because I''m not one to blur the lines of right and wrong, that I''ve told you the truth. I don''t n on seeking vengeance. However, I don''t n on being with you anymore either. It just doesn''t sit right with me."


    Kallum looked at her in shock. "Callie? You can''t do this! It''s not fair to me!"


    "Unfortunately, I can''t offer you fairness," Calista stated calmly.


    She pushed Kallum away, straightening her clothes as she continued, "If you don''t agree to call off the wedding, I won''t go back with you. Choosing not to seek revenge against you is already the limit of my patience. As long as you agree to call off the wedding, I will continue to treat you as I did before. But once you recover, I will leave."


    Call off the wedding? Leave?


    She relentlessly pursued Kallum, nearly suffocating him with her acts of affection. Afternding one blow, she swiftly followed with another, leaving Kallum with a sense of agony that was almost unbearable.


    He clutched at his chest where her warmth used to linger. It felt as though a gaping hole had been torn open there. The difort was unbearable, yet it was the overwhelming sense of emptiness and helplessness that truly pained him.


    Am I expected to just ept this oue? I''m just supposed to stand by and watch as things spiral out of control between us? No! I don''t want this!


    Suddenly, he seized Calista''s hand and started to drag her away from the colossal structure that was akin to a castle.


    In the midst of the flower field, Kallum was panting heavily. However, the moment he saw Calista, he made a sudden resolution. He unlocked the fingerprint lock on the key to his research center.


    "I don''t know how to argue with you, or what to do to avoid hurting you while still satisfying myself. All I can do is to show you that I am determined not to give up."


    Calista simply looked at him in confusion. After he unlocked the key with his fingerprint, a thin slice on the key spun open. At its center, there was a button which he pressed with a resolute determination. "What are you doing?"


    Calista suddenly felt a sense of unease, but in that moment, Kallumughed.


    As dusk fell, the sky was set aze with the hues of the fiery clouds, casting an intense glow that seemed to ignite twin infernos in his eyes. The intensity of his gaze was so potent, it felt as though it could melt her. "You''re scared of it, aren''t you? But with me here, there''s nothing you need to fear."


    As his voice faded, a rumbling sound echoed from beneath the ground. Calista''s sense of unease intensified, as if some emotion was about to burst forth from the earth itself.


    "Stop! What are you doing? Isn''t this the ancestral property your grandfather left you?"


    Kallum didn''t respond. Instead, he simply walked behind Calista, held her in his arms, and gently forced her to look in the direction of the research center.


    "Nothing is more important than you. Even if it''s a ce I''ve painstakingly crafted, if you despise it, then it should vanish!"


    Upon finishing his sentence, a


    tremendous explosion suddenly erupted within the research center! Immediately after, the sts continued without pause, all


    triggered from within. This catel


    the massive, cold marble exterior to gradually copse inward,


    Calista''s heart pounded a bit faster. "Y-You''ve activated the self-destruct system?"


    "Yeah." Kallum nodded, hisposure unshaken as if nothing had happened.


    As Kallum watched therge building before him crumble, the inexplicable fear and unease in his heart vanished, and his rationality returned atst.


    So what if Calista was reincarnated with hatred? So what if there is now a great chasm between us? Once I fall in love, I love deeply. Besides, I''ve given my true heart, so I absolutely won''t allow failure! I will remove all the obstacles that stand between us through my actions! I''d never give Callie the chance to leave me!


    "W-Why did you have to do that?"


    Calista was utterly astounded, eventually closing her eyes in distress.


    Kallum gently covered her ears with both hands and whispered softly into them, "Whatever I do for you will always be worth it."


    With the resounding boom of an explosion, the building, which was initially crumbling in small pieces, suddenly seemed as if its core had been hollowed out, giving rise to a small mushroom cloud.


    It felt as if the world was on the


    brink of destruction, with buildings caving in on a massive scale. The thunderous noise was relentlessly ringing in their ears. As dust shot up


    toward the sky, asional bursts of


    fire could be seen within. Against the backdrop of fiery clouds, akin to a fiery sunset, it felt eerily like the apocalypse was upon them.


    Kallum had truly destroyed it all for her sake.


    Calista tensed up all over as she stared at the ce, where she was once held captive, get destroyed before her very eyes. She couldn''t quite identify the feeling in her heart, but it felt as if something deep, within her had copsed as well. She wanted to control it, but she couldn''t. Then, it suddenly dawned on her that this ce had been built by Kallum, who had put so much effort into it amidst his busy schedule. This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    With that thought, her throat suddenly became very dry.

 Chapter 328 Walk Towards You

    "You really didn''t have to go to such lengths... Even so, I must call off the engagement!"


    Kallum lowered his hand from her ear, holding her even tighter as he said, "It''s fine if you wish to cancel the wedding. Anything you dislike should vanish from this world, and that includes me."


    In the aftermath of the explosion, he turned her around to face him, looking directly into her eyes as he continued, "Do you hate me? If you do, there''s a simple solution. You don''t need to keep me alive any longer. Soon, I''ll vanish from your sight, just like this ce." It seemed as though Calista was scorched by his gaze, for the first time a desire to flee arose within her. Yet, Kallum held her firmly in his grip.


    Do I hate him? If I do, then why have I never wished for his demise? Yet, if I don''t, then why can''t I ept him?


    "Answer me, Calista. Do you hate me?"


    "I..." Calista felt as though she was stuck in a dilemma. In the midst of the chaos, she instinctively said, "I don''t hate you."


    She simply couldn''t ept him again.


    Even so, it seemed as though Kallum was content with her answer. He held her close, a bitter smile ying at his lips as he whispered in her ear,


    "All right; remember what you''ve said. You don''t despise me, so you can''t leave me."


    She ns to leave after curing me? There''s no way I would allow it!Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Sure enough, Calista was highly resistant. She furrowed her brows, attempting to push him away, but was held even tighter by Kallum.


    "As long as you stay, I will agree to all of your demands," he promised.


    Calista was taken aback when she heard that.


    "The wedding can be called off, but you cannot leave me!" With great effort, Kallum managed to utter these words nonchntly, yet his heart was bleeding. They were soon to be husband and wife, but now, he found himself having to step back just to keep her by his side. He had already shown considerable sincerity by going this far. Calista even felt that it would be somewhat ungrateful of her to reject him again.


    But why? How could someone as prideful as Kallum go to such lengths for me?


    "Don''t assume that I''d be with you just because you keep me here!"


    Hoping to push him to give up, Calista wanted to maintain her cold facade to provoke him further. However, she was unaware of how helpless her expression looked, and how much it tugged at his heartstrings. Unable to resist, Kallum gently lowered his head and kissed her forehead, letting out a soft chuckle.


    "Don''t be scared, Callie. You don''t have to do anything. Even if there were a hundred or even a thousand steps between us, all you need to do is watch me walk towards you."


    The sounds of the explosions gradually ceased, and the structure that once resembled a castle had vanished without a trace, leaving only ruins scattered across the ground.


    Calista''s body trembled slightly, her heart that had been pounding since the start slowly began to calm, leaving her with a sense of dizziness as if she had just finished an intense workout.


    At the same time, she couldn''t believe that Kallum had shattered the shadow weighing on her heart so easily.


    He really is...


    "It''s gettingte; let''s head home. Remember, our lives aren''t entirely in our own hands just yet."


    As the fiery clouds receded, the


    beautiful twilight hues took over.


    Flowers swayed gently, as if the heart-stopping events that had just urred were nothing but an


    velve


    illusion. The sound of Kallum''s voice seemed unexpectedly more rxed than before.


    Calista took a step back and said, "I can walk by myself."


    With a stern expression, she pushed Kallum away However, her retreating figure seemed somewhat disheveled. It was clear that both


    she and Kallum needed to sort


    tout


    their thoughts. One could imagine, at this point, that Calista''s emotions must have been nearing the breaking point.


    Upon seeing Calista emerge first, Quintus initially wanted to stop her. However, noticing Kallum just


    behind her, he halted in his tracks et


    To be honest, it was fortunate that they were in the territory of the Fairchild family. Otherwise, themotion earlier would have


    certainly caused a panic.


    In his heart, Quintus was at a loss for words. He had spent billions on renovations, with the third floor alone consuming a significant amount of his effort. "Shall we return now, Mr. Kallum?"


    He may have had hisints, but seeing Calista obediently get in the car, it was clear that the two of them had started to "make up". He let out a sigh of relief in knowing that those billions hadn''t been wasted after all. "Yeah." Kallum nodded, but unlike his earlier rxed self, he now appeared somewhat solemn. "Put word out that the wedding is postponed," he ordered.


    Although he had told Calista that their engagement was off, in Kallum''s perspective, it was merely a postponement. He wanted others to know that Calista was still his woman, and that the wedding was merely put on hold. Quintus was taken aback when he heard that.


    So, they haven''t made up yet! Mr. Kallum must have been very upset...


    "Understood, Mr. Kallum."


    "That''s good," Kallum said as he got into the car.


    Returning to Fairchild Manor once more, Calista felt an uncanny sensation. This only served to prove that she had truly considered Fairchild Manor as her home before this.


    "Callie!" Wanda was the first toe over. She examined Calista by holding and looking at her hands.


    "You scared me to death, Callie! How could you just run off like that? Where have you been these past two days? I''ve been worried sick!"


    When faced with Wanda, the sense of estrangement that Calista used to feel had disappeared. Regardless of everything, Wanda had been genuinely good to her. Having just one person like that was truly more than enough. Calista rested her head on Wanda''s shoulder as she said, "I''m sorry, Aunt Wanda... I won''t run off again in the future."

 Chapter 329 Creating An Opportunity For Them

    "W-What''s going on?" In the past, Calista was a very reserved person and rarely got this close to her. Feeling confused, Wanda directed a puzzled look toward Kallum.


    Kallum gave his head a shake and said, "Mom, aren''t you supposed to take Callie to meet someone?"


    "Huh? Oh, yes! Callie, you should rest first. I will take you to meet a friend tomorrow, okay?"


    Calista spected that Wanda was taking her to see a psychiatrist. A hint of resistance stirred within her, but faced with Wanda''s expectant gaze, she found herself unable to voice any objections. "All right."


    Upon seeing her agree, Wanda was indeed quite pleased. However, the conversation took a sudden turn when Calista added, "But could you arrange another room for me? I-I don''t want to share a room with Kallum." Calista''s words elicited a variety of reactions from those present. Concealing the bitterness in his heart, Kallum told Wanda to step away first.


    Kallum walked over to Calista, feeling somewhat exasperated as he said, "It''s reallyte, so why bother with all this fuss? How about we just add another bed to the room? I haven''t been able to sleep for days now."


    Calista was very hesitant about it, but she was genuinely exhausted, and moreover, she was a bit apprehensive about speaking with Kallum, so she decided to stay silent.


    Just like that, Kallum, who imed not to want any fuss, still caused quite a stir by moving a bed in. This was certainly more troublesome than simply arranging a new room for Calista.


    Previously, Calista didn''t feel anything unusual. After all, she and Kallum had shared even more intimate moments together. Sharing a room or even bathing together didn''t stir any emotions within her, but things were different now.


    She furrowed her brows as her emotions were in turmoil. Yet, she didn''t hesitate at all in doing what needed to be done.


    Kallum, who was pretending to review some documents, let out a sigh of relief. Recently, he had to be extremely careful not to do anything that might upset her.


    The reason why Calista is feeling flustered right now is merely because I had unexpectedly obliterated her nightmare before, causing her a certain amount of distress. If she were given time to calm down, she would still remember the things I had done to her in the previous life...


    The mere thought of that gave Kallum a headache. There was an old saying that children often had to suffer for their parents'' sins, but in his case, Kallum found himself paying the price for things he hadn''t even done. It was truly unjust. While Calista was halfway through showering, the water suddenly stopped.


    She was somewhat baffled. In Fairchild Manor, which had a water cirction system, the idea of water outage was simply unthinkable. Yet, it had indeed happened.


    She repeatedly tried to make a call using the bathroom''s internal line, but the line was always busy. Left with no other choice, she could only turn to Kallum for help.


    Seeing Calista emerge swiftly, Kallum was somewhat puzzled. She hadn''t even dried her hair and was merely wrapped in a bath towel, her fair skinrgely exposed. He couldn''t help but swallow, his eyes flickering as he asked, "What''s wrong?" Calista scrutinized Kallum''s expression. Upon noting that he didn''t seem to be pretending, she figured it could indeed be an unexpected situation.


    "The bathroom''s water supply was cut off," she stated coldly.


    "Huh? How could that be?" Kallum eximed, finding the situation


    almost unbelievable. At that moment, someone knocked on the door, and from outside, Wanda''s


    somewhat apologetic voice could be heard.


    "Kallum, hold off on showering for now. There''s an issue with the water pressure in the water cirction system. It requires manual pumping to get the water flowing again." Calista noticed the sticky foam on her body and couldn''t help but ask, "How do I manually pump water?"


    Amotion echoed from outside the door, as if someone was eximing, "We did it!"


    After a while, Wanda, feigning calmness, said, "Kallum should know where the pressure pump is. I have some things to take care of, so you two should get some rest soon!" After Wanda finished speaking, she left.


    far


    At this point, there was no way Kallum wouldn''t be able to understand their intentions. Even though the pressure pump was in the bathroom, it was located a bit from the bathtub''s shower head. Moreover, it had to be continuously pumped for water to flow. In other words, if Calista wanted to finish her shower smoothly, someone would have to go in and pump it for her continuously.


    This really seemed like an idea Wanda would havee up with.


    After hearing Kallum''s exnation, Calista seemed to have also deduced Wanda''s intentions.


    It must have been because they knew she wanted to annul the marriage, so they were intentionally trying to create an opportunity for them.


    She presumed that even if she sought help from the servants, they would likely im that they didn''t have the time to assist her.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista was somewhat agitated, her


    emotional state was still far from


    calm, especially facing such a situation. Yet she couldn''t express her anger. After all, it was her who had unreasonably called off the marriage first. The fact that Wanda didn''t me her was already a disy of utmost kindness and


    understanding.


    After a moment''s hesitation, Calista quickly nced at Kallum and asked, "Would youe in and help me?"


    Kallum suddenly stood up, his eyes clearly revealing a sense of surprise and delight.


    "All right... I mean, sure. I won''t look at you."


    With an expression that was difficult to put into words, Calista once again entered the bathroom.


    Kallum hesitated for a moment before stepping in. It could have been an illusion, but despite the bathroom''s spaciousness, the moment Kallum entered, Calista felt an overwhelming sense of pressure.


    He stood tall and was d in a well-tailored casual shirt, seemingly at a loss as he watched her.


    Calista had always believed she had long lost any sense of modesty, yet facing him, impably dressed as he was, she found herself unexpectedly reluctant to let go of her bath towel.


    In the midst of the rising steam, Kallum''s ears were slightly red. He turned around very slowly and said in a hoarse voice, "Go ahead and wash up. I won''t look."

 Chapter 330 Close Your Eyes

    As he spoke, he pumped the pressure pump and water gushed out instantly, finally allowing Calista to continue.


    After a moment of hesitation, she decided to remove the bath towel wrapped around her chest.


    There were no partitions, no cover. If Kallum were to turn around, he would be able to see her in her entirety. A very unfamiliar sense of restraint caused Calista to frown. It seemed as if from the moment Kallum blew up the research center today, something had also copsed within her heart, giving rise to countlessplex emotions. It was an experience she had never had since her reincarnation, as if the world had be more real.


    Kallum''s emotions grew moreplex. The night was supposed to be his hardest time, but being in this bathroom, he didn''t find it unbearable at all. However, when he inhaled the steam mingled with her body scent, his face burned.


    He knew he shouldn''t, but those enchanting thoughts wouldn''t stop swirling in his mind, especially when he considered the idea of Calista leaving. That desire suddenly intensified, as if only by iming her, could he prevent her from leaving. Should I possess her and win her over so that she''ll be obedient and never leave again?


    Suddenly, warmth surged in Kallum''s heart. It was as if the entire bathroom had heated up, an invisible tension twining between the two of them. From Calista''s perspective, the muscles on Kallum''s back were taut, as if he would pounce on her any moment. Feeling the looming threat, Calista hastened her shower. As she stood to dry off, a wave of dizziness struck her, a result of days without proper nourishment. She let out a cry of pain and her body swayed.


    The moment Kallum heard Calista''s voice, he turned around. Seeing Calista looking as if she was about to faint, he rushed over to catch her without a second thought. However, due to his leg condition, he ended up being pulled into the bathtub by Calista instead. Water sshed around as Kallum pressed down on Calista. He waspletely drenched.


    Uponing into contact with water, Calista was instantly roused from her daze. To her surprise, she found herself stark naked and held tightly in Kallum''s arms. A wave of inexplicable anger washed over her. "Did you do this on purpose?"


    After all, how could Kallum possibly not be able to hold her back? For a moment, Calista couldn''t think of any other reason besides this one.


    Kallum was at a loss for words. A few days ago, he had injured his leg. Although it had been properly bandaged, the wound had reopened due to his rapid running today. He hadn''t felt much difort earlier, but suddenly, his injured leg had started throbbing with pain. Otherwise, he certainly wouldn''t have been brought down by Calista.


    Visibly upset, Calista gave him a push. It wasn''t that she had never been seen by Kallum. Throughout the past year of their constantpanionship, had it not been for Kallum''s illness that deterred him from touching her, they would have had countless close encounters. Before, she had never felt anything like this. But today, she was utterly overwhelmed. The moment he embraced her, every inch of her exposed skin felt a cold shiver.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Stop looking!"


    Seeing how Kallum''s gaze seemed to be glued to her, Calista finally lost her temper in embarrassment and pushed him away.


    A bitter taste filled Kallum''s mouth. It wasn''t that he wanted to look, but he was a normal man, after all.


    Before, it was understandable that he couldn''t touch her, but even now, it was still off-limits. Thest time he was intimate with Calista, which was also their first time, was two years ago. He truly had unspoken grievances.


    However, knowing that Calista was not in a state to handle any shocks at the moment, Kallum obediently stood up. But his injured leg jerked suddenly as if acting against him.


    He had risen halfway, but then he heavily slumped back down, his handnding somewhere it shouldn''t have. At this, Calista''s eyes were brimming with anger, turning red. "Kallum... You!"


    She had wanted to embarrass and use him of taking advantage of her when she noticed a patch of water had turned red, and the source was Kallum''s knee. Only then did Calista suddenly remember that Kallum had injured his leg a few days ago. He must have to the wound open by running so fast today. But because he was wearing ck trousers, no one had noticed.


    Upon realizing he hadn''t done it on purpose, Calista calmed back down. However, she still shot Kallum a re. "Close your eyes!"


    At that moment, Kallum was still reeling from the touch he had just experienced. He had just touched Callie''s chest.


    He closed his eyes and his face flushed even more. Calista seemed to have guessed what he was thinking. She huffed and quickly got out of the bathtub.


    The enticing scent and supple form of the woman brushed against him, sending electric jolts through every point of contact. Kallum was tempted to explore this sensation further, but his rational mind told him that now was not the time.


    Yes, now''s not the right time!


    Calista was about to rise, but her long hair was pinned down by Kallum, causing her to identally slip back into the bathtub. This time, she could no longer hold back her anger. "Kallum, can you honestly say you didn''t do that on purpose?"


    Kallum wasn''t able to hear much of that. Earlier, in order to support her and prevent her from hitting her head, he had ended up cradling the back of her head with one hand. His upper body was pressed tightly against hers, and his heart was


    pounding fiercely, as if it was about to leap out of his throat.


    When Calista, deviating from her usual indifference, red at him, she was more vibrant than ever before.


    Kallum looked lost and bewildered. His hair was damp from the water, clinging to his forehead, and his shirt was tightly adhered to his well-toned body.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 331 A Sense Of Contentment

    A blush unexpectedly crept up on Calista''s face. She gritted her teeth and said, "Get up! Otherwise, I''m changing-" Before she could finish her sentence, Kallum had already leaned in, capturing her lips with his in a fervent kiss.


    As if he was worried about her finishing her sentence, Kallum''s kiss was both urgent and deep.


    When he bent down, Calista''s face was just below the surface of the water. Her chin was lifted by Kallum, yet her nose was underwater. It created a situation where they were kissing, but the water separated them into two worlds. Unable to breathe, she could only fiercely seize the oxygen Kallum gave her, making the kiss even more intense.


    Darn it! Calista took a deep breath, then bit down hard. Initially, she intended to bite Kallum''s tongue, but he quickly sensed her intentions and pulled back, leaving her to bite down on his lip instead.


    Kallum hissed in pain before pulling himself out of his beguiled state.


    Yet, he didn''t let go of her so quickly. Unable to contain his feelings, he whispered in a pleading tone, "Can I hold you a bit longer? I feel... awful!"


    Feeling something pressing against her, Calista stiffened. She truly couldn''tprehend why she had to endure such an awkward situation.


    Her restraint delighted Kallum. Sensibly, he wanted to walk away, but emotionally, he yearned to meld her into his very being especially after she had expressed her intention to leave him during the day. She actually wanted to leave him!


    "Callie..." Kallum''s body heat was rmingly high, and Calista felt as if she was being warmed by it. She was skillfully immobilized by Kallum''s holding, unable to move at all. Even after holding her for a while, he seemed unsatisfied. His usually clear eyes were once again veiled in a hazy mist. He stared at her lips, and even as a bystander, she could feel the intense struggle within him.


    This can''t go on any longer! Calista closed her eyes for a moment. "Are you trying to force me to move out tonight?"


    Before Kallum could lose his sanity and do something irreversible, Calista struck a nerve, using pain to bring him back to his senses.


    Sure enough, when Kallum regained hisposure, his eyes dimmed. Calista spotted a hint of grievance in his eyes.


    She paused for a moment, her voice mysteriously losing the sharpness it had held before as she said, "I''m... starving..."


    This was the part that most frustrated Calista. Over the past three days, she had only managed to eat a couple of bites of pasta this morning.


    Kallum was somewhat taken aback. He furrowed his brows in dissatisfaction and said, "Didn''t Wyatt feed you?"


    "I woke up only because of my fever, and then you had me brought back here." Calista''s voice softened.


    Kallum suddenly felt at a loss. He quickly stood up. "I''ll have someone prepare something for you right away."


    As he rose, Calista unintentionally tugged at him. "Your leg is injured. Move slowly."


    Once she voiced these words, both of them were momentarily taken aback.


    Habits can indeed be a terrifying thing. Over the past year, she had grown ustomed to taking care of him, to the point where she had developed a constant need to keep an eye on him. Kallum found it to be both sweet and bitter.


    Before he was on the brink of losing her, Calista was always kind to him. Although he was grateful, it didn''t deeply touch him. Now, as he was about to lose her, he realized that even though Calista might have seemed cold in the past, she was, to him, beyond reproach. He slowly rose to his feet. "I''m fine."


    Calista silently let out a sigh.


    "I''ll go out and arrange for some food. You take a bath and clean your wounds. I''lle backter to reapply your medicine."


    "All right."


    This time, Calista didn''t hold back. He had seen and touched everything. There was nothing left to hide. She quickly dried herself off in a fit of resignation, changed into her pajamas, and went out. Kallum had no choice but to close his eyes, struggling to quell his desire.


    When he was done bathing, the room was already filled with the tantalizing aroma of food.


    Calista had prepared two servings, as Kallum had spent the day with her and hadn''t eaten anything. This stirred some emotions in Kallum as he picked up his cutlery. Calista had unknowingly asked for all his favorite dishes.


    He was thrilled that Calista had retained this habit, yet he was more concerned that one day, everything she had given him would be taken back. How could he, who had already experienced the best, withstand such a disparity?Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    If such a day were to trulye, he would undoubtedly do something dreadful. Therefore, it was best if that day never arrived.


    After they had a simple meal, Calista


    finally began to bandage Kallum''s wounds. She did it deliberately, taking her time to finish her food


    before tending to his in 196


    wanted to give Kallum the impression that she didn''t card


    whether he was hurt or not However, unbeknownst to her, her expression while eating had inadvertently betrayed her true feelings.


    Her gentle breath fell on his leg. Kallum, in a bathrobe, looked down at her. He watched as she diligently and methodically treated his wound Suddenly, he felt a sense of contentment. He would ask for nothing more if things could always be like this. He truly desired nothing more.


    The wound is quite deep, yet he had the audacity to run today. He''s practically courting death!


    Calista was somewhat dissatisfied, her displeasure clearly etched on her face. Her delicate eyebrows furrowed slightly and her eyshes'' drooped, fluttering gently every time she blinked. From Kallum''s perspective, the glow of the light made her fair skin appear incredibly luminous.

 Chapter 332 Do Not Rush This

    "All right, for the next few days, try to move as little as possible and keep your wound dry." Calista understood deeply just how little Kallum cared for himself. "If your wound reopens, I won''t let anyone bandage it for you, understand?"


    "I understand," Kallum replied obediently.


    Calista looked quite relieved and showed a faint fatigue.


    "Then, go to sleep."


    Once she finished speaking, she was the first to climb into the new bed. The two beds were separated only by a bedside table, a short distance that nevertheless caused Kallum to hesitate for quite some time.


    He nced at therge bed they usually slept in and then took a look at the newly arrived smaller bed. In the end, hey down on therge bed.


    After the lights had been turned off, only a warm yellow bedsidemp flickered. Lying on his side, Kallum looked at Calista''s profile through its glow. For the first time, he felt the night was so cold and seemingly endless.


    Tonight, he could still share a room with her. Despite the chill, at least he could see her as soon as he opened his eyes. But she would undoubtedly move out tomorrow, and by then, he wouldn''t even be able to catch a glimpse of her.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    His previously disregarded physical pain erupted, particrly around the heart area, where a dense, aching sensation was particrly pronounced.


    He was desperate to change the current situation. The mere thought of not being able to see her face in the evenings, let alone hold her, left him feeling suffocated.


    Calista was attempting to take back everything she had given him, one by one. He wouldn''t allow it. He couldn''t ept the cruel joke of gaining and then losing again.


    The more he dwelled on it, the more upset he felt. The difort kept sleep at bay. It wasn''t until midnight that he finally rose from the bed and sat at its edge.


    He silently observed Calista, much like a beast lurking in the night. Deep within him, there was an undeniable desire to consume her.


    In the end, he couldn''t resist and found himself climbing onto Calista''s bed. It was a small, single bed and once Kallum got on, it became quite cramped. He carefullyy on his side, yet he didn''t feel ufortable at all. On the contrary, when he held her once again, he let out a soft sigh. Amazingly, his physical pain seemed to ebb away just like the tide.


    He felt a pressing need to take action. There was no way he could simply let Calista move out andpletely disappear from him.


    When Calista woke up the next day, Kallum was already gone from the room.


    She was so exhausted that she had slept deeply the night before.


    During breakfast, Benedict arrived. In fact, he had intended toe the night before, but it was toote. After all, it was someone else''s home, and it wasn''t appropriate. Upon his arrival today and seeing Calista, he asked, "Callie, I heard you''re calling off the wedding?" At that moment, only she and Benedict were in the dining room. She nodded absentmindedly as she ate her breakfast. "Mhm."


    "Why?" Benedict was thoroughly


    puzzled. "And was it because of a disagreement with Mr. Kallum that. you suddenly ran away this time Callie, don''t mean to scold you, but how could you just run off like that? You didn''t even take your phone! Do you have any idea how worried we were?"


    Reflecting on her past cowardly actions, where she had fled in panic, Calista frowned and shook her head. "It won''t happen again."


    "It better not..." Seeing that she was unharmed, Benedict didn''t say much else. "So, what''s the deal between you and Mr. Kallum?"


    "It just doesn''t feel right."


    "What doesn''t feel right?"


    "Our backgrounds are ipatible. I''m out of his league."


    Calista''s response caught Benedict off guard. He stared at Calista, his face suddenly taking on a peculiar expression. Leaning in, he said in a hushed, secretive tone, "Callie, tell me honestly, did you... catch Mr. Kallum in bed with another woman? Is that why... If that''s the case, call off the wedding!"


    Calista choked for a moment, ring at him. "What gave you such a bizarre idea?"


    "Isn''t that so?" Benedict stroked his chin, unable to think of any other reason that could cause two people, who were in love, to suddenly turn against each other.


    "If the fault wasn''t with Mr. Kallum, could it be you? Have you changed your mind?"


    "Dad!" Calista put down her spoon, her head aching. "I just don''t think we''re a good fit for each other, that''s all. Let''s end this discussion here and never bring it up again!"


    Sensing Calista''s firm tone, Benedict didn''t dare to oppose her at that moment. He merely responded in a low voice, "You better think this through. If you let go of such a great fianc¨¦, in the end, it''s someone else who''ll be thrilled!"


    Upon hearing themotion,


    Wanda stepped in. She pulled


    Benedict aside, whispering,


    "Benedict, don''t rush this! Callie is in


    a unique situation now. Don''t


    pressure her. Kallum mentioned that she even had suicidal tendencies before, so we mustn''t upset her! Postponing the wedding isn''t a big deal. Kallum ismitted. He won''t change his mind."


    Benedict was rather troubled by Calista''s situation. "Everything was fine before... I don''t know how it suddenly came to this, and I''m unsure if it can get better in the future."


    "Everything will be all right. You go ahead with your work if you''re busy. I''m about to take Callie to see the psychiatrist. This person is a renowned expert in the field. Both his personal and professional integrity is guaranteed."


    "I guess I''ll have to trouble you with Callie, then..." Benedict felt he was rather irresponsible, but his capabilities were limited. Even a smallpany could keep him so busy that he really had no way to stay and help.

 Chapter 333 Do You Have Any Friends

    "What are you talking about? Callie is my future daughter-inw..."


    Wanda was brimming with confidence about this. With a smile, she saw Benedict off. By the time she returned, Calista had already finished eating. "Where''s Kallum?" Calista was a bit puzzled.


    Wanda paused and said somewhat reproachfully, "Yesterday, Kallum identally destroyed part of the ancestral property. Now, he''s talking about selling off the ce. So, the other members of the Fairchild family came over this morning. They''re upstairs." Calista was slightly stunned. Just yesterday, Kallum had unexpectedly blown up the ce, causing not only financial loss but also difort among the other Fairchilds. After all, the significance of ancestral property was different from others, and Kallum was even nning to sell it now.


    Though Kallum hadplete control over the ancestral property, selling it off could lead others to believe there were financial issues within the Fairchild family. Naturally, Kallum would have to provide them with an exnation.


    The excuse of identally blowing something up was rather dismissive, but it was indeed in line with Kallum''s usual style. Moreover, the fact that he didn''t mention her at all saved her a lot of trouble.


    "Forget about him. I''m going to introduce you to someone."


    Calista knew who she was meant to meet. Despite her resistance, she nodded in agreement.


    Wanda led her into a room that was incredibly tranquil and brightly lit. In there, a man was engrossed in reading a book.


    He appeared quite youthful, dressed in light-colored casual attire,plete with a beige knitted scarf. He looked much like a schr.


    "Hello, are you Calista? I''m Wilbur Sutton, your psychiatrist."


    The moment he turned to look, he exuded a sense of serene tranquility and a hint of elegance.


    Calista narrowed her eyes. "I''m Calista."


    From the phrase "I am," one could discern that the two individuals possessed rather simr personalities. Upon seeing her, Wilbur raised an eyebrow in amusement.


    Wanda said with a smile, "Even though Mr. Sutton is not that old, he is a renowned neurologist both domestically and internationally, as well as a psychologist. Callie... I hope you won''t keep anything to yourself. Speak up, Mr. Sutton will surely help you..." She then pulled Calista aside and whispered, "It''s okay if you don''t like Mr. Sutton. I know other people. But Callie, don''t think that seeing a psychologist means there''s something wrong with you. In foreign countries, it''s amon thing. Just have a casual chat with him, okay?" Seeing that Wanda''s eyes were filled with worry, Calista simply nodded and tried her best to rx.


    "Okay, thank you."


    Calista''s words brought a sense of relief to Wanda. She appeared to be a genuinely caring mother and was very thoughtful.


    "Mr. Sutton is aware of the current affairs within the Fairchild family, as well as the state of your health and Kallum''s. There''s no need to hide anything. Just rx, okay?"


    It seems that Wilbur is highly trusted by the Fairchild family...Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Calista nodded. "Okay, I will definitely have a good chat with Mr. Sutton."


    When the room fell silent once more, Calista took a seat opposite Wilbur. Wilbur smiled and said, "No need for formalities. We''re just here to chat." ""About what?"


    Sensing Calista''s defensiveness, Wilbur responded with a smile, "Anything, as long as it''s what you want to tell me."


    His smile radiated a uniquelyforting and steady aura, as if nothing could go wrong by following him.


    Calista wore a look of caution on her face. "What if I don''t want to tell you anything?"


    Wilbur raised an eyebrow slightly. "How about we try a different approach? You answer when I ask?"


    "Can my answer be silence, or perhaps a lie?"


    Wilbur''s light brown eyes sparkled. "Of course. You haveplete freedom with me. Shall we get started, then?"


    "All right."


    Wilbur nodded lightly, his tone casual as he asked, "Then here''s the first question. Ms. Stafford, when was thest time you were intimate with a man?"


    Calista looked at him calmly, seemingly unfazed and unbothered by his sudden question.


    "Two years ago."


    "Is that so?" Wilbur casually jotted down the words "super calm," a faint smile ying on his lips. "But the vibe you give off is as if you haven''t let''s say, let loose in over decade. It''s very subtle, yet incredibly tense. You should know that a healthy sex life can help to alleviate stress, and you seem to becking in that department."


    "Mm-hmm," Calista nodded, her demeanor serious as if she was genuinely considering his advice. This prompted Wilbur to raise his eyebrows once more. He found the girl before him unexpectedly interesting.


    "So, onto the second question, do you have any friends?"


    Calista furrowed her brows. She wanted to say yes, but a month or two after leaving school, she suddenly couldn''t remember any of her ssmates. She couldn''t even recall the name of the girl who was


    always around her at sor a


    moment. It took her a


    effort to


    finally remember her name.


    "Yes."


    After observing the subtle change in her facial expressions, Wilbur intriguingly jotted down the words "emotional indifference."


    "What would you do if your friend suddenly stopped contacting you? Or would you do nothing at all?"


    "Everyone has their own life. If she no longer wishes to keep in touch with me, it means she no longer needs me. So why should I bother her?" Calista reasoned.

 Chapter 334 I Decided To Lie

    Wilbur chuckled. "It sounds like you don''t really need her. If I were your friend, I would be heartbroken."


    He was the kind of man whose smile was so warm it could melt hearts. Whenever he smiled, he had a way of captivating everyone''s attention. Yet, he noticed something peculiar. When Calista looked at him, she seemed as indifferent as if she was looking at a piece of "I guess I don''t really need her."


    furniture.


    Calista wasn''t lying. It might have sounded harsh, but that was the truth. She could get along with people and have fun with them, but once they exited her life, she wouldn''t feel the slightest bit of sorrow.


    "The next question, I heard you once had a stepmother. Did she treat you poorly?" Wilbur looked at her with a hint of apology. "Because you really don''t seem like a child whoes from a stable family."


    "She did." Having said all that, Calista rxed slightly. She suddenly broke into a smile. "But it doesn''t matter. She can''t hurt me anymore."Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    "Does that mean she has done something to hurt you before?" Wilbur asked hastily. He didn''te across as a psychologist, but rather a casual friend who seemed very interested in her world. "Can you tell me the worst thing she''s ever done to you?"


    There were too many that Calista could think of. But what was strange was that the first thing that came to mind was a trivial matter.


    "I don''t know what''s the worst thing she''s ever done to me." Calista leaned back slightly, pausing for a moment before continuing in a rather indifferent tone.


    "I recall my younger days, around the age of thirteen or fourteen, when I started to be aware of my own attractiveness. I actually quite desired to be beautiful. My clothes were always clean, and my hair was always neatlybed. But that was all I could manage. In my stepmother''s control, I never had the chance to truly express myself."


    Suddenly, she looked straight into Wilbur''s eyes. Her eyes sparkled like stars. Her delicate features and mysterious smile caused Wilbur''s expression to stiffen slightly. It was as if, unintentionally, his heart had skipped a few beats. "Do you know why?"


    To hide hispse, Wilbur answered hastily, "Because of your sister?"


    "Exactly." Calista smiled. "Unlike me, she had a new outfit, new shoes, and beautiful essories almost every day. As for me, I could only wear the unfashionable and oversized clothes that my stepmother bought for me. Sometimes, my dad would buy matching dresses for my sister and me. However, the ones that


    belonged to me would ter and


    deliberately damaged. My


    stepmother would tell my dad that I was the one who had ruined them, iming that I had no liking for such mboyant attire. I didn''t even dare to defend myself. After all, when my dad was home, he was in the minority. He was particrly influenced by my stepmother during those times, depending on her for his livelihood. I had to act ording to her whims. She wouldn''t


    appreciate me outshining her own


    child."


    Calista had assumed she had long since forgotten such a distant memory. But now, as she spoke, she found herself recalling even the smallest details with crystal clear rity.


    "Once, there was a school g. Not only did it require a certain amount of activity fee, but it also called for a beautiful dress. Wearing my school uniform or my outdated clothes on that day would have definitely drawn ridicule, especially when all the girls around me were dressed like little princesses. I, too, wished for a chance to feel beautiful for once. Once that kind of impulse erupted, it was difficult to control. However, I didn''t have money to buy dresses. Everything my grandparents had given me, including money, could only be essed after I turned sixteen. Meanwhile, my dad had


    entrusted everything at home to my stepmother. He trusted her


    immensely, but she never gave me any money."


    Upon saying this, Calista suddenly broke into a smile. "So, I decided to lie!"


    Continuing her line of thought, Wilbur asked, "Lie? You lied about the amount of the activity fee?"


    "Mm-hmm." Calista nodded. "I remember the activity fee was eight hundred and fifty. The dress I had my eye on wasn''t branded or anything, but it was really pretty. I was only renting it, so it was just thirty-five a day. I could use three hundred from the activity fee as a deposit. I was sure the teacher would be understanding if I returned it a few dayster, considering I was usually quite well-behaved."


    A subtle hint of a smile yed at the corners of her mouth, and her voice, excessively calm, stirred in Wilbur an irresistible desire to listen attentively.


    "That morning, as I was about to ask


    for money, a ssmate came to


    fetch me for school. The elite school


    had many special admissions


    students, and she, a child from an ordinary family, was admitted due to her exceptional grades. Her presence bolstered my courage significantly. I plucked up the nerve to ask my stepmother for the eight hundred and eighty-five activity fee. Although my sister and I attended the same school, our fees were always different. I thought I could get away with it and rent that dress. But that day, when my stepmother heard I needed money, her expression soured. Even though the fee for the next grade was typically only fifty more, my sister''s was eight hundred, so mine should be eight hundred and fifty. Yet, in front of my ssmate, she kept pressing me. ''Is it really eight hundred and eighty-five? Are you lying?'' My ssmate saw my embarrassment and instinctively defended me, also iming it was eight hundred and eighty-five."


    At this point, Calistaughed again. It was augh tinged with bitterness and mockery. Wilbur had met many people and heard many stories, but inexplicably, it was only her that made his heart ache.


    "Then, my stepmother actually called the school. Can you believe it? She wouldn''t bat an eysh spending three thousand on a facial or a hundred thousand on a game of cards. Yet, to ensure I didn''t have any opportunity to take advantage, she went as far as making a


    call to the school over thirty-five, and she got an answer from the teacher."

 Chapter 335 I Do Not Have A Daughter

    "She ruthlessly exposed my lies and berated me harshly in front of my ssmates! I felt guilty, resentful, and furious! I hated her! But I didn''t dare to talk back to her because I was young at that time, and the consequence of fighting back was her targeting me. With no one to help me, my situation would only get worse. Seeing that we were about to bete, my stepmother didn''t cease her harsh scolding. My ssmate, in a very soft voice, said, ''Ma''am, we''re sorry. We won''t lie again. We''re about to bete. Could you let us go to school now?'' To our surprise, my stepmother turned to re at her. From her attire, my stepmother could tell she wasn''t from a wealthy family. She began with her signature mocking and sarcastic remarks. ''Indeed, birds of a feather flock together. You''re defending her lies; you''re no better. I''m going to tell your teacher to have you reflect on your actions in front of the entire school!'' Her words terrified my ssmate..."


    Calista couldn''t help butugh, covering her mouth. She noticed Wilbur looking at her with such an expressive gaze. It was undeniable that even his sympathy seemed more eptable than most people''s. It was as if he understood her and genuinely empathized with her, and he felt sorry for her.


    "The ssmate kept apologizing, even breaking into tears. She had worked so hard to get into that school. She was terrified the teacher might not like her. I could tell she must have regretted interacting with me, and even more so,ing to my house... Because my stepmother had something to hold over us, she belittled both me and her to the point where we felt worthless. All we could do was cry. We were unable to utter a single word in our defense. This continued until school had already started. My stepmother, still not satisfied, finally stopped. She pulled out nine hundred from her elegant purse and harshly threw it at my face! At that moment, I found myself longing to grab the knife lying not too far away and thrust it into her throat."


    Calista continued, "After she threw the money in my face, she watched me suppress my anger until my body trembled. She sneered, ''Isn''t this what you wanted? Here''s an extra fifty. Go treat yourself to cr*p! Honestly... even tossing money into the water would at least make a ssh, but giving you a single cent feels like a waste!'' Then, she picked up her purse and left for her beauty treatment. After my stepmother left, my ssmate broke down, crying loudly in despair. In anger, she yelled at me, ''I hate you!'' before running off. The housekeepers stood by, watching the spectacle unfold. As for me, I picked up that nine hundred in the end. Back then, I couldn''tprehend. Although my family was far from poor, why did I feel like a beggar? This was my home, yet why did I feel oppressed, as if I was living under someone else''s roof? Others seemed to live like princesses, while I had to endure for the sake of harmony and growth... In short, the cost of that one lie was too high, so I never lied again."


    The room fell into silence for a moment before Wilbur suddenly asked, "Did you end up renting that dress?"


    "Nope."


    "Why?"


    "Because that money humiliated me. I didn''t even attend the g. I exchanged those nine hundred into a lot of coins and spent my time skipping them across theke..."


    Slightly taken aback, Wilbur looked at her. Calista smiled, her eyes seemingly twinkling with stars. "Surprised, aren''t you? What you don''t know is that I honed my stone-skipping skills during that time. The ripples spreading across theke under the moonlight were simply stunning..."


    What Wilbur thought of, however, was what Yelena had said. She''d rather throw her money into the water and hear it ssh than give it to her. And Calista had actually given up on the dress that she had been longing for, abandoned her desire to showcase her beauty, and used the money to create a ssh in the water instead. That night by theke, was sheughing or crying?


    The sting in his heart became even more pronounced. He looked into her eyes and asked, "And what about now? Do you still want that dress?"


    Calista stood up, the fleeting warmth she had just disyed seemingly an illusion. From the moment she rose, she returned to the initial impression she had given when she first entered.


    She shed a smirk, yet it seemed as if there was a deeper meaning hidden within.


    "You know, what I once yearned for, I no longer desire now."


    When Calista emerged from the room, Wanda was the first to approach her. "How are you feeling, Callie?"


    Calista''s smile seemed to have grown a bit brighter than before. "Mr. Sutton is indeed a wonderful person."


    "That''s good..." Wanda said with a smile. "Mr. Sutton mentioned that today was just a casual chat. He believes that sessful treatment requires a good rapport between two people. It seems that you feel a connection to him."


    "I hope he feels the same way."


    Calista shrugged. "It''s gettingte. I need to head to theboratory.


    That''s my main priority. Anyway,et


    thank you, Aunt Wanda. You''re the kindest person to me in this world. I''m so grateful that my mother has a friend like you."


    "What are you talking about..." Wanda was so moved by her words that her eyes turned red. "I don''t have a daughter. I''ve always


    cherished you as if you were on


    Go ahead and get to work. Don''t worry about me. I''m going to ask Mr.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Sutton something. Don''t work toote, and remember to rest, all right?"

 Chapter 336 Such Separations Are Inevitable

    "All right."


    Suddenly, Calista felt a hint of sweetness rising from the depths of her heart. In terms of a mother, Wanda fulfilled all her yearnings and expectations. She was her sce in this life and the previous one.


    After Calista left, Kallum returned but they missed each other. Given the vastness of Fairchild Manor, it was quite normal for such a miss to ur. "How''s it going?" he asked Wanda.


    Wanda responded, "I was just about to inquire myself. Your timing is perfect. Let''s go together and find out if Callie''s situation is serious or not..."


    At that moment, Wilbur was deep in thought. Upon seeing Kallum enter, he rose to his feet, offering a courteous smile. "Mr. Kallum, Mrs. Fairchild."


    "There''s no need to be so formal, Mr. Sutton. You were chatting with Callie for quite a while. What do you think..." she asked straightforwardly as soon as she opened the door.


    Upon hearing the name "Callie," Wilbur paused briefly before he slowly responded, "Actually, there''s no need for you all to worry so much. From my observations of Ms. Stafford, although she has some psychological issues, they''re not severe." "Then what exactly is her problem?"


    Kallum took a seat where Calista had previously sat. His close-fitting deep purple shirt entuated his well-defined physique. Whether he was standing or sitting, he exuded an intimidating presence. At least, that was how Wilbur perceived him. Kallum seemed to be the kind of person who had a clear distinction between love and hate and was domineering and arrogant. People like that were usually not easy to approach. Wilbur couldn''t understand how he could have developed such deep feelings for Calista. Without uttering a word, Wilbur simply yed back the recorded conversation he had previously had with Calista.


    The reason he acted in such a way was because he wanted the Fairchilds to truly understand the kind of life Calista had lived before.


    After the recording finished ying, Wanda was already sobbing uncontrobly. The content wasn''t anything shocking, merely the process of a child telling their first lie. However, when Calista ryed it in such a calm and meticulous manner, anyone who heard it would feel their heart ache immensely.


    "Before, I merely thought Yelena wasn''t a good person, but I didn''t expect her to be so cruel toward a child! Callie was still so young back then. Did she really need to humiliate a child like that over just thirty-five?"


    She had reached an age when she started to appreciate beauty and desire to look attractive. Having been suppressed for so long, she naturally yearned to dress up just once. She didn''t even n to buy that dress, merely to rent it, yet even such a simple wish went unfulfilled.


    In some impoverished households, this might have been eptable, but not in her family. They were well-off. Her sister lived like a princess, yet she had to resort to lying just to get hold of thirty-five.


    It would have been fine if she had sessfully deceived Yelena. Yet, the process through which she obtained it was by being brutally pped in the face with money, a deep humiliation! And it happened in front of her friend.


    No wonder Callie had no friends when she was young. The careless remark from her friend before she left might have left her feeling guilty about the concept of friendship for the rest of her life.


    What''s even worse, under the


    oppressive rule of Yelena, CallieN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    could have potentially sumbed to a submissive nature, bing more and more timid. She would have been terrified of Yelena to such an extent that even as she grew up, she would never dare to harbor any thoughts of rebellion. That is the


    true tragedy.


    A glint of intense hostility shed in Kallum''s eyes. Since Yelena had been hiding in the Langley residence, avoiding people for quite some time, he had let her be, choosing not to engage in petty disputes with a woman. However, after he had listened to Calista''s past experiences, all his notions of not holding grudges against women flew out the window. He was determined to make this woman pay the price.


    The thought of all the indignities Callie had suffered from her childhood till now filled Kallum with rage. He wished he could go back in time, knock that woman off her feet, and protect Callie. How could anyone treat the woman he cherished so poorly? Callie must have suffered greatly at the hands of Yelena in her previous life. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have transformed so drastically upon her reincarnation. She had evolved from a sensible and patient character to the person she was now. Upon witnessing their reactions, Wilbur immediately understood Calista''s position within the Fairchild family. For some inexplicable reason, he felt a great deal of relief.


    "Mr. Kallum, Mrs. Fairchild, we can


    get a lot of information from Ms. Stafford''s words. Firstly, she feels guilty about lying and swindling money. Secondly, she feels remorse for involving her ssmate. Thirdly, she has a clear understanding of her own predicament. To put it simply, she has a strong sense of right and wrong. Generally, people who maintain this kind of moralpass aren''t likely to have severe psychological disorders."


    Wilbur''s words brought considerablefort to Wanda, but she posed another question. "But Callie is so different now. How would you exin her current state?"


    Wilbur put away his voice recorder


    and replied calmly, "She seems to be


    exhibiting a hyper-rational


    personality. Often, such


    personalities arergely shaped by family influences, or it could possibly be due to some form of trauma experienced during childhood, causing her to be


    hyper-rational when ites to emotions. For instance, if someone were to share with her the pains of their love life, it wouldn''t stirany emotions within her no matter how much she listened. It''s difficult for her to empathize with others when ites to matters of the heart.


    Moreover, her views on familial love, romantic love, and friendship are all incredibly subdued. She can''t


    frequently visit each other. During


    holidays, she might prefer being alone. As for love, she loves without reservation when she''s in love. But when ites to breakups, she can detach herselfpletely in a very short time. The same goes for friendships. She won''t feel sad because of someone''sing and


    going, believing that such


    separations are inevitable."

 Chapter 337 A Lazy Habit

    matter for her if she truly wishes to form a connection with someone."


    "If she can recognize her own situation and not iste herself, then her life will still be rtively normal. However, if she can''t make an effort to integrate into society, life will be quite tough for her. But Ms. Stafford is clearly a clever woman. It will undoubtedly be a simple "So... based on what you''re saying, Callie''s mental issues aren''t severe? But Kallum mentioned that Callie has even shown suicidal tendencies these past few days!"


    "We''ll have to ask Mr. Kallum about that," Wilbur said. "Generally speaking, it''s extremely difficult to emotionally distress someone who is hyper-rational because they oftenck empathy. Yet, the idea that Ms. Stafford was provoked to the point of contemting suicide by some matter suggests only one possibility-that this matter is rted to her. Moreover, the fact that it could elicit such a strong reaction from her, who has already be numb, indicates that this matter is definitely beyond what an ordinary person can endure. The blow it dealt is devastating. If you know anything, Mr. Kallum, it''s best if you tell me. It will be of great assistance in devising a treatment n. Of course, I''m also very curious as to what could instigate such a suicidal desire in a hyper-rational person. It must be something truly terrifying."


    Kallum, of course, couldn''t possibly reveal the truth. He merely stated, "Your duty is to help me soothe her emotions..."


    He paused for a moment and furrowed his brows. "Currently, due to a certain incident, she has some misunderstandings about me. I hope when youmunicate with her, you can help her unravel her feelings toward me. After all, she and I are engaged. Can you manage that? As for her secrets, if you''re capable, you can ask her yourself."


    "Helping her is my sole purpose for being here. Mr. Kallum, you can rest assured that I will do everything in my power to support her emotionally."


    Seeing that Kallum didn''t want to talk, Wilbur didn''t press him further. However, his curiosity about Calista had peaked. The fact that Calista could stayposed and hyper-rational in the face of situations unbearable for most people indicated that she had a much tougher life and was far stronger than he had initially imagined.


    Given the circumstances, it seemed fitting to consider her situation as a new subject for study. After all, even though she was not one for pretenses, she was indeed an intriguing individual.


    Meanwhile, Kallum was rather anxious. If Calista didn''t have any significant emotional issues and was instead very rational, fully aware of gains and losses, wouldn''t this prove that her decision regarding him wasn''t made impulsively? Then, what should he do to win her heart back?


    He couldn''te up with a solution no matter how hard he tried. By nightfall, as expected, Calista had indeed moved to another room to sleep.


    Compared to yesterday, she was much calmer today. Just like before, she was always very clear about what she wanted to do, and it was unchangeable.


    Given Kallum''s pride, he simply couldn''t bring himself to beg her to stay. Hence, he had no choice but to watch her move out.


    On the first night without Calista, Kallum found it incredibly hard to bear. He was desperate for a solution, while on the other hand, Calista started having nightmares.


    Somewhere along the line, Calista realized that she had grown ustomed to needing someone by her side to fall asleep. It turned out that a year was indeed long enough to form such a habit.


    Regardless, she had always stayed up until the wee hours of the morning, around three or four, before she could sleep. As soon as she fell asleep, nightmares began to gue her.


    In her dream, it was bitterly cold and the housekeeper had once again refused to help her with theundry. This put her, a girl not yet twelve, in a difficult position. Prior to this, her grandmother had always done herundry. Strictly speaking, apart from helping her grandmother tidy up and sweep the floor, she had never done any household chores before.


    Back then, when she was new and unfamiliar with her surroundings, she was quite afraid of Yelena''s somewhat stern face. Despite her fear, she approached Yelena toin. In her presence, Yelena summoned the housekeeper and questioned, "Why didn''t you wash Calista''s clothes?"N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    The housekeeper dramatically eximed, "Mrs. Stafford, the heater in the bathroom is broken. I''m getting on in years. Doingundry in these conditions would be the death of me. Besides, there''s no hot water left, and it''s minus five degrees out there!"


    After her performance, she sneered,


    "Didn''t Ms. Calistae from the mountains? Given the harsh


    conditions there, she should be quite adept at doing chores in this kind of weather. Why is it that even a few pieces of clothing need to be


    washed by others? Or is it that she''s


    be delicate sinceing


    home? Mrs. Stafford, this isn''t a


    good habit. You shouldn''t encourage it."


    Yelena''s lips curled up into a


    malicious smirk. She looked down at Calista, who was holding her dirty clothes. "Rosalyn, you have a point. You''ve been with us for so long. We can''t let you do all the work. Besides, a twelve-year-old child should learn to be independent. We don''t believe in spoiling children in our household. So, Rosalyn, why don''t you supervise Calista as she washes the clothes? We wouldn''t want her to develop azy habit at such a young age. And remember, the heater in the bathroom is broken. There''s no hot water, and I suspect the power


    might be out too. Looks like the


    washing machine won''t even work."


    "Ah, yes, yes, I know," the chubby Rosalyn responded, breaking into a smile so wide that her eyes nearly disappeared. However, when she faced Calista, a fierce glint shed within her narrowed eyes. "Ms. Calista, please understand. Mr. Stafford doesn''te home often, and as the eldest daughter of the house, it''s best if you behave and learn to stand on your own two feet!"

 Chapter 338 Take Good Care Of Her

    At that time, her grandmother had just died, and Calista had never seen the look on Yelena''s face before. Her malice was so ringly obvious that it made Calista clutch her clothes tightly while trembling.


    In a state of confusion, she was hauled into the bathroom. Faced with a basin of cold water, she recoiled, refusing to move. Her hands were already frostbitten and swollen significantly. She had just applied some medicine. If she dipped her hands in cold water again, she would end up losing her fingers.


    However, in the end, the housekeeper forced her hand into the water.


    "Wash them! If you don''t wash your dirty clothes properly, you''re not leaving the bathroom today!"


    After she spat out her harsh words, she turned off the heater and flung the windows wide open. The temperature plummeted to minus five degrees. Meanwhile, she stood behind the door, watching her through the window. They were separated by a mere door, yet one was as warm as spring while the other was trapped in the biting cold of winter.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "She really thinks she''s here to live the high life and doesn''t even bother to check her own worth. She even expects me to wash her clothes. How ridiculous!"


    From behind the door, the faintly discernible voice of Rosalyn echoed. "You''re nothing but an unwanted illegitimate child, yet you dare to act like a prominent youngdy? Under Mrs. Stafford''s rule, your life and death are in her hands! You better behave yourself!" Calista was crouched in front of the massive water basin, her hand already withdrawn, but still a bright, frostbitten red. She felt scared, yet also a sense of indignation and unwillingness.


    Her hands trembled incessantly as if touching water was akin to surrendering to fate.


    Her tears fell one by one into the water brimming with bubbles. She finally understood her ce in this family. Without the presence of the two kind elders, she could only rely on herself. With these thoughts in mind, Calista took a deep breath and abruptly plunged her hands into the water, beginning to wash the clothes.


    Once she understood, she was perfectly aware that disobedience would lead directly to her being cold and hungry. If Benedict didn''t return home that night, she might suffer terribly with no one to turn to for justice. She had to wait for Benedict''s return and report their wrongdoing.


    Filled with humiliation, she vigorously scrubbed the clothes. The housekeepers watched from behind, surprised that she didn''t resist and just got on with the task. They snickered, calling her spineless and saying she was born without any luck for wealth and prosperity. They even went as far as to mock her for being content with her lowly status.


    And so, she scrubbed with all her might, gritting her teeth to hold back the tears. In a moment of carelessness, the fingernail of her right hand grazed a frostbitten spot on her left thumb, causing thick blood to seep out. The blood mingled with the soapy water, and even though it should have hurt, she felt nothing. Her fingers had already sumbed to numbness from the cold.


    Unable to hold back any longer, she burst into tears. Yet even amid her sobbing, she continued to do theundry. She wanted to finish quickly and return to her room. She never knew before how much she could despise doingundry.


    Atst, she finished washing her clothes, her fingers nearly worn out.


    She returned to her room in silence and treated her own wounds. Her hands trembled as she put on gloves. Her body was chilled to the bone. Clutching her nket, she wept until she gradually fell asleep.


    In the evening, Benedict returned home. Upon seeing her own hands, battered and bruised, Calista immediately rose to her feet. She was determined to lodge aint, to show Benedict what Yelena had done to her hands. But as she was on the staircase, she heard her stepmother speak.


    "What should I do, Benedict... I think


    Callie really distikes me, and she hates this home. She doesn''t even want the housekeepers to touch her clothes, insisting on washing them herself. Now her hands are injured. I tried to give her medicine, but she threw it away. Her hands must be terribly hurt. I just don''t know what she''s trying to do..."


    Benedict was taken aback, "What? She hurt her hands? Don''t feel guilty. Mom and Dad are gone and Callie has be much more reserved. Take good care of her. With time, she will understand your intentions."


    On the staircase, Calista looked at her fingers bleeding even through her gloves. Suddenly, she realized that even if she went andined, Yelena could easily im that she had intentionally injured her fingers to frame her, simply out of dislike for her. Yelena had been living with Benedict for over a decade, whereas Calista had only been here a few days. It was pretty clear who Benedict would believe.


    However, she didn''t hold any resentment toward Benedict. ording to her grandmother''s teachings, Benedict was a man of limited talent, but he worked


    tirelessly for his family. All sheet


    do was silently endure, for speaking out would only result in Benedict''s disappointment due to her lies.


    Later, when she returned to her room and peeled off her gloves, a piece of skin came off with them. Did it hurt? Truly, it didn''t. Her fingers felt as if they had lost all sensation. The flesh was mangled and it looked terrifying.


    And so, when sheter noticed her right hand beginning to fester, particrly at the joints of her


    thumb and index finger, to the point where the bone was visible, she was terrified into tears again. She applied medicine and cried, and spent her nights trembling, cradling her hands as she slept. Her medicabskills were crucial; she couldn''t afford to lose the use of her hands.


    Perhaps it was due to the strong recuperative abilities of children that she had grown up now, and the ce on her fingers, which was once so severely injured that the bone was visible, bore no scar at all. It was as if nothing had ever happened. Did it really never happen? The scar wasn''t on the hand, but deep within the heart. A mere glimpse revealed a raw, festering wound, seemingly incapable of ever healing.


    "Callie! Callie!"


    When Calista was awoken, the dense darkness before her eyes gradually dissipated. It felt as though she had been abruptly pulled from a quagmire. The lingering fear from her dream was still etched in her heart.

 Chapter 339 We Are Still Just Kids

    She clung onto Kallum''s hand and asked repeatedly, "Are my hands all right? Has the injured part healed?"


    Kallum woke Calista from her dream, startled by the panic in her eyes. He quickly cradled her gently, reassuring her, "Your hands are fine. They''re beautiful. It was all just a dream."


    "It wasn''t a dream..." Calista rested her chin on Kallum''s shoulder and frowned in pain. "It wasn''t a dream..."


    Even without scars, those events truly did happen.


    "Callie, what did you dream about?" Kallum asked in a deep voice. But this time, Calista did not respond.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    After a considerable amount of time, the feeling of her heart nearly stopped beating slowly faded away. Calista''s breathing gradually steadied, and she gradually regained herposure. "Why are you here?"


    She pushed away Kallum. If she remembered correctly, she should have already moved out that night.


    Kallum found himself in a slightly awkward position. He couldn''t possibly admit that he had been unable to sleep and had unconsciously decided to check on her. Upon entering, he had found her in apparent distress, presumably having a nightmare, so he had woken her up. And just like that, he was caught red-handed.


    His eyes flickered nervously as he said stiffly, "I heard your voice just now... so I came over to check."


    Calista looked at him coldly, perceiving his inability to lie. However, she realized that if it hadn''t been for him waking her up, she''d have still been trapped in her nightmare. With this thought, her anger began to subside.


    "Now that I''m awake, you can go back to sleep."


    At that moment, Kallum felt a profound sense of distress. Callie wanted to call off their wedding for reasons he didn''t understand, and he had tolerated it. When she wanted to move out, he had also endured it. But what he couldn''t bear was her gradual detachment from him, as if she was pushing him toward a precipice. He knew he had to do something, anything to prevent her from just walking away from him like this.


    "You''re probably having trouble sleeping too, aren''t you?" Kallum suddenly asked, looking at her. "Because I can''t sleep too. For over a year now, I''ve grown ustomed to having you by my side, being able to hold you as I drift off. I don''t believe you can break that habit so quickly."


    "So what?" Calista replied indifferently, her eyes cold as ice. "I''ve told you before, I can''t ept you again. Even if you hadn''t hurt me in this life, I still wouldn''t want to. No matter how persistent you are, it won''t change anything."


    Her words stirred a faint anger within Kallum. Yet, what overwhelmed him more was a sense of sorrow. Strictly speaking, he had hurt her in his lifetime. It was just that Calista had a high tolerance for pain.


    "Callie..." He yearned to hold her, to loudly express how much anguish he was in, how much he wished topel her into marriage. But he couldn''t. All he could do was to continually suppress the frustration in his heart. His expression suddenly turned serious. "Follow me!"


    Calista was puzzled. But she truly couldn''t fall asleep, so she simply decided to follow Kallum outside.


    The early winter chill at four in the morning was intense. Kallum personally bundled up Calista into a ball of warmth, then, apanied by just two others, he drove off.


    "This is a bit risky," Calista said, a hint of a headache apparent in her gaze toward Kallum. "I hope you haven''t forgotten that we''re still patients. Doesn''t it hurt? You seem to be in high spirits."


    Being with her, how could he possibly be aware of any physical difort?


    Kallum decisively stated, "Once you get used to the pain, it doesn''t feel like much. I''ll take you out for some fun. Just don''t be a downer."


    Fun? Now? Calista thought hesitantly. Did I somehow upset him? Why else would he suddenly act so childishly?


    However, when they arrived at the destination, she realized that Kallum was not childish; he had lost his mind. "Why did you bring me here?"


    Before her was the Langley residence. This was a ce that Calista never wanted to set foot in again in her lifetime. "I''m taking you to find Yelena."


    Kallum nced at the house, a cold glint shing in his eyes. Calista attempted to leave, but he held her back.


    "What are you doing?" Calista red at him. "The Langley family means nothing to me now, and Yelena is simply something I could trample into the mud without a second thought. I''m not at all interested in seeking further revenge on her. We''re not even on the same level anymore."


    What she said was true. Before she rose to prominence, she had harbored thoughts of revenge against Yelena. But now, she didn''


    even have the desire to spare her an extra nce. Many things had already happened and knowing that


    Yelena was not faring well was enough for her. Content Belongs to


    "I didn''t say anything about revenge." Kallum slightly raised his eyebrows. "From this point forward, we''re not adults. Right now, you''re thirteen and I''m seventeen. We''re still just kids." "What are you nning to do?" She had an inkling of something, but she was somewhat afraid to contemte it. Was Kallum really such a considerate person?


    "What am I nning to do? Since we''re underage, we can do whatever we want, of course!"


    He led Calista, slipping in unnoticed. Previously, the Langley family had been wary of Calista''s rise to power. They had not only abandoned their ns against her but had also been on guard for a while. However, when they realized that she didn''t even bother to contend with them, they fett relieved and embarrassed. They quickly dropped their defenses,


    allowing Calista and Kallum to enter with ease. Outside, Quintus and


    Derek stood guard.


    Once they entered, they didn''t head for the main building but instead went to the annex. Calista felt a bit awkward. Why did I get in here so obediently? I don''t really want to be here.

 Chapter 340 Yelena Is Having An Affair

    "What exactly are you trying to do?" In the darkness, Calista lowered her voice to question Kallum.


    Kallum didn''t respond directly; instead, he started talking about something else.


    "You know, the reason you didn''t see Yelena at the Wolford residence before was because Quincy didn''t want to acknowledge her. As glorious as she was in the past, that''s how awkward she is now in the Langley residence. She can''t stay in the main building and has to live with the housekeepers in the annex. But a few days ago, Quincy tried every means to contact her, hoping that she could bail her out of jail. What do you think Yelena will do?"


    Suddenly, Calista showed a hint of interest. "In the Langley family, Matthew wouldn''t care about her well-being if she had no value to him. The only one who would help her is..."


    At the end of the hallway, a faint light seeped out from a door. ording to the information, that was where Yelena resided.


    Before they even went closer, the intermingled sounds of heavy breathing could be heard emanating from the house. It was unclear whether Yelena was too bold or her secret lover was too impatient. They had actually forgotten to close the door thoroughly. Calista was pulled aside by Kallum. Both of them, despite their high status, were acting as surreptitiously as petty thieves at that moment.


    Calista nced once, then quickly averted her eyes. She didn''t need to look to know what was happening, as the sound alone gave it away. There wasn''t a ripple of emotion within her, but Kallum wouldn''t let her leave.


    "Look," he whispered into her ear.


    "I don''t want to."


    Calista struggled for a moment. Was there anything she hadn''t seen before? She had known about Yelena''s scandal in her previous life, so she had absolutely no interest in it this time around.


    Kallum softly chuckled by her ear.


    "Callie, tonight we don''t have to act like adults. You don''t need to be so rational."


    His words left Calista slightly taken aback. It was undeniable that his statement held a magical allure, evoking within her a profound sense of longing.


    "Tonight, you''re only thirteen years old. Just imagine, as a thirteen-year-old, what would you want to do the most after witnessing your stepmother in an affair?" he said patiently. "Forget about morals, family discord, or anything else. What do you truly desire? Even if it''s the darkest, most wicked thought, we should bring it to life!"


    Calista was truly a bit moved. What would I have done if I was thirteen again? If my stepmother was having an affair, would I tell Dad?


    I don''t think so because Dad was already having a hard time. I wouldn''t want to cause him any more trouble, and speaking up would invite retaliation from her.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    But of course, my first thought would be to tell Dad. I would want the world and those who imed her to be a good person to see how blind they were.


    But would it be okay? If I were to expose the truth, and if my stepmother didn''t divorce Dad after this incident, how would she treat me? For a moment, Calista was lost in her own thoughts.


    At that moment, Kallum whispered


    into her ear, "Don''t be scared. You


    still have me. I am your fianc¨¦. No


    matter what you want to do, I will et


    support you. Even if the Stafford family disowns you, I will still be here. I will provide you with a better


    life. Now, tell me, what do you want


    to do?"


    In a fleeting moment, a pang of sorrow welled up in Calista''s heart. If I had an escape route back then and there was someone to tell me that I could do whatever I wanted, then I...


    "I want her to be disgraced and never to be in this family again."


    Kallum was somewhat ted. He held back his urge to kiss her.


    "All right, your wish is mymand, my little princess."


    The title he used took Calista by surprise, but before she could react, Kallum was already pulling her downstairs. They ran swiftly, their movements graceful and light. They held their breaths subconsciously as if they were thieves in the night.


    The sensation of causing trouble and ying pranks was so novel to Calista. She had always suppressed herself since childhood, never once resisting, only enduring. But now, was she finally free from having to bear it all?


    The two of them rushed to the second floor. Their boldness derived from the fact that before they entered, Kallum had known that the man who had an illicit affair with Yelena, in order not to expose himself, had turned off the surveince of the annex. "You take care of that side, and I''ll take care of this side. Once we''re done, don''t linger. We''ll head to the rooftop. I''ve had someone install surveince in Yelena''s room. You can watch whatever you want."


    Standing in the middle of the


    hallway, Kallum was seriously discussing task distribution with Calista. Even though the activity seemed childish and held no


    tangible benefits, Calista''s intel


    was evidently piqued. The sparkle in her eyes revealed her deep-seated desire to participate.


    After the two had divided their tasks, they each went their separate ways. With Kallum present, Calista knew that even if she were discovered, it wouldn''t matter. Even if people found out she was sneaking into private residenceste at night, causing mischief, it wouldn''t be a problem. After all, she wouldn''t be the only one bearing the disgrace; he would be there to share the burden with her.


    The sensation of having an escape route was so novel that Calista couldn''t help but let a smile creep onto her lips. She rapped on the first door. In the darkness of the night, she quickly whispered, "Hurry upstairs. Yelena is having an affair!"


    After saying that, she quickly ran to the second door and knocked, repeating, "Hurry upstairs. Yelena is having an affair!"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 341 Having An Affair

    Suddenly, faint, fragmented noises began to reverberate through the hallways. A number of people flung their doors open in response, yet found the corridors mysteriously empty. "What''s going on?"


    "Did anyone else catch that? I swear I heard whispers about Yelena... something about an affair?"


    "An affair? Here? But the ce is teeming with housekeepers!"


    "Why don''t we sneak a peek and find out for ourselves? Perhaps she''s sumbed to the loneliness. She''s certainly been under a great deal of stresstely..."This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    By the time Yelena became aware of the rising tumult, it was regrettably toote. Several of the household staff had already quietly ascended to her floor and now formed a barrier at her bedroom door. Trapped, her lover had no chance to escape. Upon recognizing the identity of the adulterer, someone lost theirposure and blurted out, "Mr. Langley!" This call was not directed toward Wyatt, but rather his father, Hans Langley.


    At that moment, Hans''plexion turned ghostly pale. His initial n had been to corral the housekeepers who had unexpectedly gathered, coercing them into silence. But as their numbers swelled, the secret soon spread throughout the entire staff of the residence. This revtion was monumental. Shockingly, Yelena was romantically entangled with her own half-brother, despite being already married!


    Meanwhile, Calista, having rushed over so quickly she was still catching her breath, couldn''t suppress a soft chuckle upon capturing Yelena''s deste expression through her wide-angle lens. This brief moment of levity seemed to ease her built-up tension, providing an unexpected sense of relief.


    Yelena, rendered speechless by the situation, faced further turmoil when Joanna, her sister-inw, arrived and, without a word, pped her across the face.


    "You b*tch! To think you would seduce your own brother!"


    However, Hans, Yelena''s secret lover and Joanna''s husband, intervened. "Enough! Quit your shrieking. We need to disperse these spectators first!" he shouted. In a heated impulse, Joanna pushed Hans, tears filling her eyes. "You''re taking her side? Why dismiss the maid then? Don''t you have any decency left? To engage in such a disgrace with your own sister in the housekeeper''s annex? You''vepletely disgraced the Langley family!"


    "Shut up!" Hans snapped back, now visibly agitated, and sternly addressed the housekeepers, "None of you should be here, leave now!"


    Reluctantly, the housekeepers began to leave the room, their curiosity momentarily satisfied. Just then, the family patriarch, Matthew, entered. The sight of Yelena and Hans in such disarray, along with his eldest daughter-inw in tears, filled him with a profound rage that nearly overwhelmed him.


    "What a cmity... A true disgrace to our family!" he eximed, striking the floor with his cane, his face turning a fiery red. This disy of anger visibly shook his sons and daughters-inw, who had just entered the room. "Dad!! Please, think of your health!"


    "I mean no disrespect, Hans, but out of everyone, why Yelena? She''s your sister!" eximed Matthew''s third son, his tone both mocking and incredulous.


    "I''m telling you, Dad, Yelena has got to go! If she remains here with us, she''ll just keep on tempting Hans. She''s been nothing but a source of trouble!" Joanna thundered.


    Ultimately, Joanna had no real desire to end her marriage with Hans. Instead, she found it all too easy toy the entire me squarely on Yelena''s shoulders.


    Until that moment, Hans had held


    his peace, but upon hearing his wife


    propose that they should exile


    Yelena, he couldn''t contain his anger any longer. "How can you be so merciless? Yelena is already a divorcee; where do you expect her to go if we throw her out? It''s like you''re signing her death warrant!"


    He has the audacity to call me merciless?


    Hans'' bold usation left Joanna gasping in shock, her eyes darting from the man she loved to the woman she loathed. The expression she cast at Yelena was fraught with deep-seated resentment and bitterness. "You''re the root of all this mess, you b*tch! I swear,


    kill you!"


    With the housekeepers out of the picture, as Joanna advanced on her, the only person left to intervene was their other sister-inw.


    "Don''t bother, Joanna," she implored, "She''s not even worth your energy."


    "It''s outrageous, really. Yelena living under our roof was embarrassing enough, and yet she dared tomit such acts..."


    "Dad, I firmly believe Yelena should no longer remain here. It''s quite unconventional for a married daughter to move back in with her parents, isn''t it?"


    As Yelena perceived their scornful looks, she clenched her jaw tightly, filled with indignation.


    Ever since the truth of how Yelena came to be pregnant with Quincy had surfaced, all the women acquainted with the news viewed her as if she were tainted, while the men eyed her with suspicion, as though she were nothing more than a prostitute. At that time, Hans was the sole person who steadfastly stood by her side. Without his support, her future seemed doomed to despair.


    And so, driven by desperation, Yelena suddenly knelt before Matthew.


    "Dad, if there must be someone to me, let it be me! I initially became involved with Harvey to aid our family, but now my reputation is irreversibly damaged. To shield our family from ridicule, it would be best if you ask me to leave."


    Witnessing Yelena''s distraught state, Hans felt a profound pang of anguish. He voiced his objections to Matthew, "Dad, you can''t treat her with such harshness. Yelena has sacrificed so much for our family; how can you be so callous toward her?"


    Matthew recoiled slightly, his look


    filled with a mix of confusion and dismay as he regarded Hans. Is this really the same promising sessor I had carefully selected from among many? can''t fathom what was going through Yelena''s mind back then, but if she hadn''t agreed in the first ce, Quincy wouldn''t exist. Whether motivated by greed or familial duty, it''s clear to anyone with


    eyes to see. Yet, Hans seems utterly bewildered to such a degree!

 Chapter 342 Might As Well Go All The Way

    survive or not doesn''t matter, you must live well in the Langley residence..."


    Yet, the situation had not yet reached its nadir. Yelena, ovee by desperation, clung to Hans'' leg, tears streaming down her face as she pleaded, "It''s okay, Hans. Who''s to me for my unfortunate fate? You should listen to our dad and drive me away! Whether I Her words carried a heavy implication-if he didn''t adhere to Matthew''s directives, his own standing within the family would be jeopardized.


    Hans, as the current patriarch, knew the importance of maintaining his authority within the family. Yet, he was torn by his affections, questioning the point of his leadership if he could not protect the woman he loved.


    Compelled by his feelings, he dered resolutely, "Yelena, don''t be scared. I want to see who in the family has the audacity to drive you out while I''m here!"


    Before anyone else could react or voice their objections, Matthew was suddenly overtaken by a violent bout of coughing.


    His face turned an rming shade of purple, and it was only after a significant struggle that he managed to gasp out, "You''re going to be the death of me!"


    With those words, he copsed, sending the room into immediate chaos. The family quickly gathered to lift him, preparing to rush him to the hospital.


    Hans, noticing the distress his stance had caused, was filled with guilt and swiftly joined the effort to assist Matthew. As he moved to leave, Yelena attempted to follow, only to be stopped abruptly by Joanna.


    Once again, Joanna''s hand struck Yelena forcefully. "You b*tch! Look at the mess you''ve made! Stay right here, and don''t you dare go anywhere. I''ll deal with you when I get back!" She thenmanded a trusted aide to keep watch over Yelena before hurrying off to join the others.


    Left alone in the room, Yelena was initially silent, but soon her emotions spilled over. She began to scream and violently throw objects around, her actions those of someonepletely undone. To Calista, who observed this meltdown, the spectacle was oddly gratifying. The clock had ticked past five in the morning. Kallum and Calista had had their share of excitement, the night''s uproar had reached its climax, and now, with everyone''s attention fixated on Matthew, it was time for the instigators to depart. "Hold on, there''s one more thing," Kallum said, stopping Calista.


    "What else do you have in mind?" Calista asked, her expression mixing amusement with intrigue, somewhat surprised that Kallum would initiate such an escapade in the dead of night. Yet, she found hispany increasingly pleasant.


    "If she didn''t know we were behind this, then what was the point of this prank? If you''re going to y the viin, you might as well go all the way, right?"


    Kallum''s yful assertion brought augh from Calista. "Why are you so mischievous?"


    Having mercilessly toyed with Yelena wasn''t enough, he even had the audacity to unt his triumph in front of her? It must be said, this was an excellent suggestion!


    Yet Kallum''s smile hinted at deeper machinations. "Is this already bad? There''s worse toe," he teased, leading her down the stairs without waiting for her response.


    He made a quick call to the individual he had bribed, ensuring the two housekeepers guarding Yelena''s door would be distracted.


    The housekeeper cautioned, "Mr.


    Kallum, please try to keep a low profile. Matthew is incapacitated; they didn''t dare move from the second floor where the family doctor is trying to keep him alive. The whole family is waiting there for the ambnce to arrive. If someone impulsively decides to go upstairs looking for Yelena, and they run into you, it couldplicate things."


    By then, Calista and Kallum had reached the rooftop on the fourth floor, while Velena was on the third floor. Realizing the entire family was preupied on the second floor, Calista hesitated, suggesting "Maybe we should wait until the


    Langleys leave before we proceed."


    "Don''t worry. When ites to handling people, you have to be swift, urate, and ruthless! You can''t hesitate, and with me here, who cares if the Langleys are downstairs? I always have a way to get out unscathed!" Kallum''s confidence swayed Calista, and they proceeded downstairs. As expected, the housekeeper who had been guarding the door was absent, allowing them easy entry.


    Yelena, already teetering on the edge of sanity from her recent ordeals, tensed immediately upon the door swinging open. She expected Joanna, but instead, it was Calista and Kallum who entered, shocking her profoundly.


    "What are you two doing here?" She realized in that moment, "I get it now, you were the ones pulling the strings all along!"


    Calista stepped in first, followed by Kallum who promptly secured the door behind them. Yelena''s heart lurched with fear. Unaware that her family was just downstairs, she assumed they had fallen under Kallum''s sway. Seeing thementer so botelly, she lost all hope of assistance and red at Calista, a


    mix of deep resentment and terror inThis is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    her eyes.


    "Why did youe back to torment me? Haven''t you caused enough pain? What else do you want from me? Are you trying to push me to my breaking point, is that it? How could you be so cruel, you b*tch!"


    Calista, caught off-guard by Yelena''s vehement outburst, felt as though she had traveled back in time, first to her twenties, then to her early teens. "Am I cruel? Even if I am, you brought it upon yourself. Who asked you to meddle with me?" she taunted. Kallum held Calista''s hand, lifting his chin haughtily as he regarded Yelena. "Don''t mind her, you can do whatever you want. Tell me, Callie, what do you want to do?"


    As Calista contemted her response, observing the panic and shift in Yelena''s demeanor, she suddenly shook her head. "Enough is enough."


    She wasn''t sure when it had started, but at some point, she had grown weary of it all. This fatigue convinced her that pursuing vengeance against Yelena wouldn''t bring any sense of fulfillment. Thus, she turned to Kallum.

 Chapter 343 Enough Is Enough

    "Thank you, but this is already sufficient as it stands," Calista said.


    At her words, Kallum''s expression grew more intense as he recalled a piece of advice from Wilbur. He had once said that under significant stress, a highly rational mind could be prone to depression¡ªa state that, in fifteen percent of cases, could lead to suicide.


    Given Calista''s subdued spirit and lethargic demeanor, these were rming signs of depression that couldn''t be ignored! He felt apelling need to stir her emotions, to break through her growing indifference to the world around her.


    Relief washed over Yelena when she heard Calista''s decision to step back. In her view, it was only because of Calista''s persistence that Kallum had sought her out sote at night, plunging her into this chaos. Thus, with Calista''s resolution to withdraw, Yelena believed she had narrowly dodged a dire situation.


    Unexpectedly, Kallum responded, "Let her go? Sure." H


    He then pulled out nine hundred from his pocket-a rare urrence since he seldom carried cash. This particr sum, he had prepared specifically for this moment.


    He handed the money to Calista, fixing her with an intense gaze, "Remember when she flung that money at you? What did you want to do then? Now, with me here, you can do anything you wish!" Calista stared at the banknotes in momentary disbelief, struggling to grasp the implication of his actions.


    "Speak up! If you were thirteen again, what would you want to do?" Kallum urged, his voice carrying an edge of urgency, snapping Calista out of her reflective state.


    She looked from the money to Yelena, the restraints of her younger self momentarily surfacing again in her eyes-now not so sharp or detached but mixed with fear and a sliver of... anticipation.


    Reflecting on that past moment, when Yelena had both belittled her and tossed money at her face, what was she really supposed to have done?


    "I... I wanted to shove this money down her throat... make her swallow it!" Calista confessed, a spark of old resentment flickering in her eyes.


    A smile of relief spread across Kallum''s face. "All right, then let''s do it this way!"


    "W-What are you nning to do? No! Help-" Yelena''s plea was cut short as Kallum quickly moved to cover her mouth.


    With swift precision, he secured Yelena''s hands behind her back. His other hand gripped her chin, forcing her to face Calista.


    Yelena was terrified beyond belief. She had never imagined that Kallum would stoop to confront her, much less that he was doing so to allow Calista to express her pent-up anger.


    She whimpered, her eyes wide with fear as she stared at Calista. Will Calista actually go through with it? What did they mean by ''when she was thirteen''? What did this sum of money have to do with me?


    Clutching the money tightly, Calista


    approached Yelena. It was clear


    from Yelena''s frightened and


    confused expression that she likely had no memory of the incident


    from


    100


    seven years ago. It was understandable; Yelena had inflicted


    numerous humiliations on her throughout Calista''s childhood, showing no remorse for each incident. How could she possibly recall the significance of this nine hundred?


    Fueled by this thought, a fierce ze of hatred ignited in Calista''s eyes. Gripping the money tightly, she stepped closer to Yelena.


    "Judging by your expression, you''ve


    forgotten what this nine hundred signifies. Let me remind you... Do you remember when I was thirteen and I asked you for eight hundred and eighty-five for a school event? There was also a girl who came to meet me so we could go to school together. You brutally humiliated us, and in the end, you threw these nine hundred in my face!"


    Calista''s voice wasden with indignation and resentment as she recounted the event, mentally transporting herself back to being thirteen. In a sudden, fierce gesture, she hurled the money directly into Yelena''s face. As the notes struck her, it felt as if something within Calista shattered.


    "You said spending even a penny on me was a waste, well, take it back! Moreover, this money is from my father! Whether it''s worth spending on me or not is not for you to judge!"


    Yelena recoiled from Calista''s harsh words. Suddenly, she recalled the incident from long ago, and a flicker of fear began to rise from the depths of her being. If Calista intended to seek retribution for every wrong Yelena hadmitted in the past, she feared she might never rest easy again.


    Suddenly, Calista reached out and gently tapped her face, pulling her back to the harsh reality of the moment.


    As they stood face to face, Yelena seemed momentarily transfixed by Calista''s intense gaze, momentarily forgetting to resist.


    "Look at yourself now, living off others, your reputation in ruins, living under someone else''s roof... You''ve always had lofty ambitions, your dreams soaring high. You looked down on my father, on our family business, and especially on me. But look at your current state-do you regret it now?"


    Yelena''s pupils contracted slightly as she stared back in a daze.


    A cold, malicious smile slowly spread across Calista''s face as she spoke.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    "You might hold the Wolford family in your heart, but Harvey holds no respect for you. You cling to Hans, but his sweet words are empty; he can''t protect you. Only my father, the man you''ve always


    scorned Benedict Stafford-bol ne?


    over the years, strived to fulfill your wishes and care for you. Indeed, he may have seemed ipetent. A modestpany was enough to disorient him. He was easily swayed and quite naive, content with mediocrity, and incapable of providing the luxurious life you yearned for."

 Chapter 344 You Are Painfully Stupid

    At that moment, Calista''s emotions surged uncontrobly. "To you, he may have seemed insignificant, easily manipted and mocked by everyone around you, always swallowing his pride. But despite everything, he was the only one who consistently treated you with kindness over all these years!"


    "Why not tryparing him to any other man? Who else could endure your extravagant ways, endlessly hosting guests without a singleint? Who else could remain loyal and trusting for over a decade, never faltering even when you disguised your escapades as beauty treatments or ying cards? My dad never strayed, yet you never chose to settle down and truly share your life with him," Calista thundered.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    She continued, "You took his money for your lover, implicated him in your schemes, forced him to bow down to your family, tormented his daughter from a previous marriage, and tricked him into raising a child that wasn''t his! After everything you''ve done, look at the life you lead now. So, this is what you wanted? To be universally loathed, right, Mdm. Langley?"


    Calista then stepped back, regarding Yelena with a look of utter disdain. "Do you know?" she sneered, "It''s always those who think they''re the smartest who end up looking the most foolish. It''sughable, really. You still don''t grasp what you''ve lost. You are truly painfully stupid."


    Initially, Yelena met Calista''s words with a defiant re, but as the usations continued, her eyes began to fill with tears.


    She had never taken the time to reflect on her past actions deeply. But Calista''s piercing words made her realize, shockingly, that the man she had least respected was indeed the one who had been most genuine toward her.


    He might not have had great ambition, exceptional talents, or strong drive, but he had offered her his patience, his trust, and his respect. He had given her the best of what he had, and she had failed to value it.


    Disgusted by her tears, Kallum released Yelena abruptly, her disy of emotion making him feel sick. The moment he let go, she crumpled to the ground, weeping uncontrobly, her dignity forgotten. Yet, her pitiful state stirred no sympathy in him. Instead, his attention turned to Calista.


    Kallum observed her, surprised that she had chosen to let Yelena off so lightly. Even if Calista was channeling her younger self, she remained cautious even when provided a way out and assured of safety. This hinted at the deep-seated fear and unease she had endured during her childhood, always leaving a margin for escape even when she was in a position of power.


    Wilbur had once noted that Calista''s personality had drastically shifted due to a traumatic event, flipping from one extreme to another.


    It appeared her current rash actions, seemingly without thought of the repercussions, actually underscored how calcted and cautious she had once been. This fear was a shield, a form of self-protection. Reflecting on this, Kallum felt a twinge of empathy.


    With me by her side, why does Calista still feel the need to look over her shoulder? Does she truly need to keep her guard up even with someone like Yelena?


    Kallum wiped his hands as if to rid himself of the distasteful scene, then approached Calista. His eyes met hers, probing, questioning. "Is this enough? Has this quelled the rage within your heart?"


    Calista, caught in the gravity of the moment, appeared uneasy as she faced Kallum''s intense gaze. She bit her lip, remaining silent.


    Kallum sped her hand tightly, his


    voice firm with conviction. "Can you trust me? won''t let you get hurt, not anymore. This woman won''t have the opportunity to harm you again. Is this really what you want to do?"


    Calista seemed anxious, her voice strained as she asked, "So, what else can I do?"


    Kallum nced at the inconsble Yelena, whoy crying on the floor, and sneered, "Didn''t you want to shove the money down her throat and make her eat it? Well, she should eat it, then!" Yelena, her tears momentarily pausing, stared at them in disbelief. She could hardly believe that despite her miserable state, these two harbored not a shred of sympathy for her.


    "Eat it?" Calista''s gaze lowered to Yelena, her eyes flickering thoughtfully, as if weighing Kallum''s suggestion.


    Just then, Kallum''s phone rang. The voice of the bribed housekeeper hastily informed him, "Mr. Kallum, Joanna saw that the ambnce was dyed and has secretly headed upstairs!"


    Calista, catching the gist of the call from Kallum''s expression, instantly regained her focus. She tugged at his arm, urging, "Let''s go..." Her voice was tense, her lips pursed. "After all, she


    got what she deserved


    Kallum, however, resisted her pull. "The retribution she received wasn''t direct from you, it doesn''t count!" His voice hardened with resolve. "With me here, no one will find you. You need to trust me!" Calista found herself torn. On one hand, the Langley family members were making their way up the stairs; on the other, there was Kallum, steadfastly refusing to leave. A storm of emotions churned within her. Suddenly, her gaze sharpened as she looked at Yelena again. Since Kallum had made it clear, what did she have to fear? She could finally let go,pletely.


    "Given the situation, Mdm. Langley, I insist you eat the money!" Calista dered firmly.


    Yelena was taken aback, while Kallum frowned, questioning, "Why are you being so polite to her?"


    Calista shot him a quick nce, her expression hardening. She shouted angrily at Yelena, "Did you hear me? I want you to eat all the money on the ground!"


    As footsteps approached, signaling


    the arrival of someone from the Langley family, Yelena knew that although Kallum''s people might dy them, she just needed to endure a little longer to avoid this humiliation. So, she remained still, her eyes red but ring defiantly at them.

 Chapter 345 Eat The Money

    Kallum''s smirk deepened as he addressed Calista, "This woman isn''tplying, how do you propose we handle her?"


    Calista''s cheeks flushed with a surge of anger as she fixed her gaze on Yelena, her eyes zing with intensity. "Why aren''t you eating? Listen, if you don''t start eating, I''ll ensure Quincy is killed in prison!" "You wouldn''t dare!" Yelena eximed, her voice shaking with panic and disbelief.


    Instinctively, Calista sought reassurance from Kallum. It felt like she was thirteen again, with Kallum standing beside her as her steadfast pir of support. Encouraged by a firm nod from Kallum, her resolve hardened, her eyes narrowing. "Dare me if you want! Don''t forget, it was I who had her locked up!"


    A wave of despair crashed over Yelena at those words. She shouted, defiant yet desperate, "Calista! I''m ready to fight you to the very end!"


    "Bring it on! If you don''t manage to eat all this money before the Langley family gets here, Quincy will suffer the consequences in prison. Think I''m bluffing? Argue with me one more time, I dare you!" The cold, murderous look in Calista''s eyespletely overwhelmed Yelena. She felt utterly powerless before her, as though her life hung by a thread that Calista could sever with a single word. "Eat!" Calistamanded with chilling simplicity.


    The room fell silent, and then, Yelena broke down, tears streaming down her face. "All right... I''ll eat, I''ll eat!"ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    In a frantic scramble, she began picking up the scattered money from the ground and stuffing it into her mouth. Calista, observing her, felt a mixture of satisfaction and relief. She might have stomped on the money first if she were more ruthless, but she refrained-just as she would never actually harm Quincy.


    Yet, witnessing Yelena kneeling and crying while eating the money, Calista felt a rush of vindication.


    As they heard voices outside, Calista signaled to Kallum, her voice light. "Well, look at that. Everyone''s arriving now. Remember, you said you''d get me out of here. I really don''t want to bump into the Langleys."


    Kallum, with a slight smirk, replied casually, "I''ve always said, all you need to do is trust me. Once she''s finished eating, we''ll leave."


    Wait for me to finish eating?


    A spark of resentment flickered in Yelena''s heart. She pretended to choke, secretly hoping that Kallum would get caught by the Langley family. After all, mistreating a helpless woman would surely tarnish the reputation of the Fairchilds. Kallum, reading her intentions, scoffed, "It seems you really don''t care about Quincy''s wellbeing."


    Yelena was stunned. Could it be true that Calista had threatened her, implying harm woulde to Quincy? Such a radical tactic, and Kallum was supporting it? Was he not concerned about the decency of the Fairchild family''s reputation?


    At this juncture, Yelena had abandoned all hope of seeing Kallum and Calista caught. Instead, she found herself praying for the Langley family''s dyed arrival, fearing the consequences if they were apprehended.


    But reality seemed to conspire


    u


    against her. Amotion erupted outside, signaling that Joanna was encountering resistance and causing a scene. This prompted more members of the Langley family to get involved, their arrival imminent.


    Subconsciously, Yelena hastened her actions, driven by urgency, while Kallum remained calm. Observing hisposure, Calista felt reassured.


    Seeing Yelena struggling to swallow the money quickly, Calista shed Kallum a triumphant smile. "Your turn now! They''re almost here!"


    As Calista extended her hand, Kallum took it with a grin. "All right. Let''s go!"


    Before they departed, Kallum nced sidelong at Yelena. "Remember, you didn''t see who was here. Say anything out of line, and your daughter pays the price." Ignoring Yelena''s pale, shocked face, he departed with Calista.


    Just as they stepped outside, Hans'' voice echoed angrily. "What''s going on? Why all the noise?"


    Joanna''s exasperated voice followed, "Someone was blocking my way into Yelena''s room, but I heard a man''s voice from inside!"


    "What?" Hans'' voice thundered as he hurried toward Yelena''s room.


    Kallum and Calista were just leaving when they nearly collided with Hans. Just then. the hallway lights suddenly went out, plunging the corridor into darkness. Surprised cries filled the air, but Hans could only discern two fleeting shadows. "Who''s there?!" he demanded.


    "Run!" Kallum whispered urgently to Calista, pulling her into a sprint.


    His night vision was sharp, while Calista, nearly blinded by the darkness, relied entirely on him to navigate safely.


    "Quick! Someone''s broken in! Chase them!" Hans shouted from behind, his voice mingled with the sound of others joining the pursuit.


    Kallum, aware of Calista''s difficulty seeing in the dark, reassured her, "Just trust me!" His grip on her hand was firm, conveying not just guidance but also his joy in the thrill of their escape. "I''ll guide you out of here." .


    Behind them, the number of pursuers swelled, leaving the Langley family bewildered and angry. They had been harboring two strangers without realizing it!


    "We must catch them!" Hans


    bellowed, determined. He couldn''t see clearly who they were, but he sensed they were a man and a woman. As someone attempted to use a phone shlight to illuminate the chase, Kallum knocked it away, ensuring their escape remained shrouded in mystery.

 Chapter 346 Making Their Escape

    Kallum led Calista upward with unwavering determination, not pausing even as they reached the rooftop of the fourth floor. Pushing forward, they climbed higher.


    "Did you manage to set up a zip line without me knowing?" Calista spected aloud, pondering the likelihood of a discreet escape route involving sliding down from the rooftop, which seemed the most logical setup she could imagine. Kallum merely offered a mysterious smile in response, keeping his ns close to his chest.


    Once they reached the highest essible point, they quickly secured the door behind them. From a distance, a thunderous noise grew increasingly intense, startling not only Calista but also rming the entire Langley residence who were taken aback by the audacity of the intrusion.


    Someone had dared to break into their fortress-like home, with the audacious n of a helicopter escape, and yet, they had caught no sight of the perpetrator.


    Calista couldn''t help but find the situation both amusing and frustrating. What can I say? This is so typical of Kallum. No matter the circumstance, Kallum always opted for the most straightforward and efficient means to achieve his objectives, never shying away from bold, attention-grabbing strategies.


    The pounding on the door intensified as Hans'' voice echoed with growing frustration from the other side, "Who''s there? If you had the nerve toe this far, whyck the courage to show yourself?"


    Meanwhile, a crowd had assembled on thewn below, their attention riveted on the spectacle above as a ropedder was lowered from the approaching helicopter. The buzz of excitement surged among them.


    The moment the rooftop door was forcibly breached, Kallum''s grip on Calista''s hand tightened, and he eximed with urgency, "Jump!"


    In perfect sync, as the crowd burst through the door, Calista and Kallum dashed towards the rooftop''s edge. They leaped onto the railing, using the momentum to propel themselves skyward.


    A collective gasp rose from the onlookers as Kallum grabbed the ropedder and Calista clung to him. They dangled precariously under the helicopter as it maneuvered downward briefly before ascending again, their daring escape drawing screams from the crowd below, nearly loud enough to rival the helicopter''s roar.


    The powerful gusts of wind kicked up by the helicopter''s des forced the Langleys who had reached the rooftop to shield their eyes. The pre-dawn sky was so dark, dyed in shades of deep blue and ck, that all they could make out were the silhouettes of a man and a woman, gradually vanishing into the night sky.


    "D*mn it!" Hans cursed under his breath, feeling a profound sense of humiliation. Caughtpletely off guard, he was forced to witness the audacious escape of two mysterious figures right under his nose. The frustration of being just moments toote to catch them was maddening.


    As they safely distanced themselves from potential capture, both Kallum and Calista breathed sighs of relief. Being caught would have been a massive embarrassment.


    Yet, the night had been undeniably exhrating. It had been filled with both adrenaline-pumping action and the sweet relief of escape.


    "Are you happy?" Kallum asked, his voice light withughter amidst the whirl of chopper des.


    "Absolutely!" Calista responded without a moment''s hesitation. Yet, her happiness was a secondary thrill


    to the freedom she felt till


    night. For the first time, Calista hadpletely let go of her


    reservations, cing her entire trust in someone else. And Kallum had proved himself worthy of that trust.


    The thrill of the night brought a spontaneous smile to Calista''s face as dawn began to break over the horizon, painting her features in golden light. Her eyes shone brightly, and her smile revealed her


    deep-seated emotions


    trust


    and affection she had developed for Kallum, feelings she had never fully expressed until that moment.


    Overwhelmed by the moment and the stunning view, Kallum was momentarily speechless.


    Choosing to let the silence speak, he leaned in and kissed Calista, their lips meeting in the soft morning light. As they hung suspended in the air on the swayingdder, the


    horizon blushed with the dawnel.ne


    reflecting the new warmth between them. Their kiss, although brief, was charged with emotion, its intensity leaving Kallum breathless.


    Close enough to feel each other''s heartbeat, Calista looked up to see Kallum''s wind-tousled hair and the intense, jewel-like purple of his eyes gazing down at her with unmistakable warmth. "Callie, do you know? I''m really grateful to you," Kallum said, his voice blending with the wind around them.


    Calista, caught off guard by his words, looked at him with a mix of confusion and surprise. "Why thank me?" she asked. He was the one who helped me get revenge. Shouldn''t I be thanking him instead? Kallum pulled her closer, his chin resting gently on her head, the sound of his heartbeat clear in the quiet that followed. "Thank you for trusting me," he said softly.


    He felt deeply appreciative that Calista had allowed him to breach her defenses, grateful she had not shut him outpletely.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Calista, still processing, felt another wave of emotions as Kallum chuckled softly by her ear.


    "Can you stop overthinking, please? I''m taking you somewhere. Just remember, for today, you''re underage, and also..." he paused, his voice dropping to a tender murmur, "you belong to me today." As they soared toward the sunrise, Calista''s face lit up momentarily as Kallum kissed her forehead gently.


    "Before we go, it''s not every day we get to catch a rare sunrise, standing high above the ground. Well, what do you think? Does it feel different to you?" he asked as they both turned to watch the horizon.


    Half of the sun had already risen, casting a purplish-gold glow across the dark clouds, painting the sky in hues of orange-red and purple-red, reminiscent of a poet''s ink-wash painting. It was a natural spectacle of breathtaking beauty. Above them, a flock of birds soared, seemingly lifting the sun higher into the sky, marking the definitive shift from night to day.

 Chapter 347 Dine And Dash

    As they watched the dawn''s first light breach the horizon, marking the daily but always uniquely beautiful transition, they felt the magnitude of the moment.


    "This is the first time someone has joined me to watch the sunrise," Calista shared, a softness in her voice that spoke volumes.


    It seemed that her silent acknowledgment of the day belonging to him had eased her demeanor, melting away her typical frostiness and unveiling a liveliness rarely seen.


    Kallum, confident and reassuring, dered, "As long as you''re open to it, I''ll be here to watch the sunrise with you every single day."


    After sharing this thought, he chose not to press for an immediate response. Instead, he gestured toward the slowly brightening city below them and suggested with a smile, "For now, let''s go grab some breakfast!"


    Their unexpected descent into the school square certainly gave the students there a jolt. They then moved on to the front of the school to explore their breakfast options.


    Despite her years at Bayview University, Calista, still very much a student, was surprisingly naive about the local breakfast spots outside the university grounds. Her meals were usually confined to the school cafeteria or the carefully prepared nutritious meals from home, typical of a prominent youngdy.


    Yet, she wasn''t dismissive of the street food stalls; she had enjoyed them in her previous life, though she didn''t dwell on that now. Instead, she eagerly scanned the surrounding eateries, her interest piqued by the array of choices.


    Watching her with evident adoration, Kallum encouraged her, "If something catches your eye, feel free to try whatever you want!"


    "What a waste that would be!" Calista protested, but eventually, she led him to a ce renowned for its roast beef pasta.


    "What would you like to order?" asked the cheerfuldy boss, sizing up the couple who clearly weren''t ordinary patrons. "We have roast beef pasta, aglio olio, sandwich, ravioli, and calzone."


    Calista studied the greasy menu disyed on the wall and ordered, "Two roast beef pasta, please onerge and one small."


    "Coming right up!" thedy boss replied, shooting a couple more curious nces at Kallum, which made him slightly ufortable. Calista, however,ughed and said, "People are staring because you''re so good-looking! See, I''m not even drawing a nce!"


    Just then, Kallum gave a stern look to a pair of student-athletes nearby, causing them to quickly divert their attention on Calista and mumble, "I''m the only one who can look at you."This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    bet


    After saying that, Kallum pulled out a pristine white handkerchief and meticulously cleaned their chairs and then the table, much to the dirt and grime''s detriment. He felt slight regret about choosing tond near the university, considering the cleanliness.


    Calista pulled him aside, whispering, "Stop making a scene. The owner''s not happy with the fuss you''re causing. Aren''t you going to sit down?"


    Despite his dissatisfaction with the hygiene, remembering why they were there, Kallum wiped his chair with a casual gesture, prepared the disposable utensils carefully, and they sat down.


    When their food arrived, thedy boss nced enviously at Calista and eximed, "Your boyfriend is really taking good care of you! Hang onto a man like him; if you miss this opportunity, you won''t find another one like it!" Calista hadn''t yet responded when the boss, who was wiping down the tables, emitted a soft hum of disagreement.


    So he''s a bit better looking than average, what of it? A man''s true value lies in his ability to provide for his family. What good are looks alone?


    With these thoughts in mind, the boss scrubbed the table with even more vigor.


    Despite herself, Calista felt a blush creep into her cheeks at thedy boss''ments. It was as if she had regressed to a more innocent version of herself, her usual poised demeanor softened by the unexpected ttery. She kept her eyes modestly lowered to her te of pasta.


    ¦¯ ¦«¦©


    Kallum, on the other hand, was buoyed by the situation. This was exactly the kind of recognition he hoped for. He wanted Calista to see him as a reliable partner, a man worthy of her trust for the long haul.


    The tantalizing scent of the meat and the vivid hot sauce stirred their appetites. Although Calista typically steered clear of spicy foods, today her appetite was particrly hearty. She felt sure she could tackle the generously sized te in front of her.


    As she began to eat with gusto,


    Kallum followed suit, setting aside


    any previous reservations. He leaned over his te and took a hearty bite, remarking casually, "These noodles §Ö are really delicious!" He was genuinely surprised by the quality; the sauce had a rich, meaty vor,


    and the pasta had just the right


    amount of chew.


    Noticing Calista''s enjoyment, a satisfied smile yed across Kallum''s lips. Despite not feeling particrly hungry initially, he found himself savoring every bite.


    However, once they finished their meal, they faced an unexpected predicament.


    Kallum felt an unusual awkwardness as he hesitantly asked, "Um... Callie, did you bring any money?"


    "Huh?" Calista was taken aback. When they had left earlier, Kallum had insisted she leave her phone behind to avoid interruptions from theboratory, not even considering her wallet. With a hint of uncertainty, Calista lowered her voice and asked, "So, are you nning to dine and dash after breaking into someone''s housest night?"

 Chapter 348 We Are In This Together

    Dine and dash? That would be unthinkable!


    Kallum smoothly and called over the boss. Maintaining hisposure, he inquired, "Is it possible to pay with a card here?"


    He produced a sleek ck gold card, which caused the corners of the boss'' mouth to twitch, skepticism evident in his expression. These two look like decent people, yet they''re nning to dine and dash?


    He straightened his back and raised his voice. "I''m sorry, but our establishment is small and we don''t have the facilities to ept card payments."


    Kallum''s irritation red at the doubtful look from the boss. He quickly suggested, "Then I''ll settle the bill with my watch." His watch was clearly an expensive piece, signaling his willingness to resolve the matter honorably.


    Before he could proceed, Calista intervened, removing a pearl hair clip from her hair and offering it to the boss. "I apologize for the oversight, I rushed out this morning and forgot to bring any money. Would it be possible to use this hair clip as payment?"


    Thedy boss'' eyes lit up at the sight of the elegant hair clip. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and the pearls glowed with a lustrous sheen. Clearly recognizing its value, she quickly agreed, herughter ringing out, "Absolutely, this is more than sufficient! I''ve never seen such beautiful jewelry before!"


    Reluctant to part with the hair clip, which clearly meant something to Calista, Kallum was visibly ufortable with the transaction.


    Calista, seeing his reluctance, gently pulled him away from the scene, whispering, "Don''t make a fuss. How much do you think your watch is worthpared to my hair clip?"


    Even though her hair clip was a gift from Wanda and despite therge pearl on it certainly not being cheap, it paled inparison to the price of a limited-edition luxury watch.


    Recognizing her decision was final, Kallum reluctantly sent a discreet message to Quintus to arrange for the hair clip''s retrievalter. No object that belonged to Calista should ever permanently leave her possession.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    After his recent experiences, Kallum had learned a valuable lesson. Spotting a bank, he decided that his first course of action would be to withdraw some money. He hade to the stark realization that there was no one around to indulge him or attend to his every need; it was up to him to take care of his own necessities.


    He nned to withdraw a significant amount of money, more than would be convenient at an ATM, so they chose to approach the teller counter instead. There, in line ahead of them, was a couple who appeared to be newly married, likely there to deposit the mary gifts they had received at their wedding.


    Amid the bustling activity of the bank, Kallum''s patience began to wear thin. It was then that he overheard the woman from the couple discussing their financial ns. "From now on, this two hundred thousand will be our life''s startup fund. Should we put it into your ount, or..."


    Her husband responded quickly and decisively, "You''ll manage the finances in our home, so it makes sense for the money to go into your ount. From now on, you''ll also handle my sry. All I need is a little spending money each month for my cigarettes." The woman burst intoughter, filled with genuine happiness. Furthermore, the bank staff processing their transaction looked on with evident admiration and remarked, "Your husband treats you so well!"


    Other customers in the bank also


    noticed the couple, casting subtle,


    envious nces their way. Observing this, Kallum seemed to glean some deeper understanding. He nced at Calista, who was absorbed in watching the television on the wall. He chose not t to


    interrupt her contemtion, his face


    marked by a thoughtful expression.


    After they had withdrawn two hundred and fifty thousand, they realized they had nothing to carry therge sum of cash in. The bank offered them a cloth bag, which Kallum epted without hesitation and then handed to Calista. Holding the bag full of money, Calista looked utterly perplexed.


    Turning slightly away, Kallum''s voice came out a bit forced as he made a surprising deration. "You''re in charge of all my money."


    This left Calista even more baffled. What''s going on?


    One of the bank staff, unable to hide their amusement at the couple''s interaction, chuckled and remarked, "What''s going on today? It seems I''m witnessing quite a few romantic gestures this morning! Youngdy, your boyfriend is not only wealthy and handsome, but he clearly adores you too. You''re very fortunate!"


    "Huh?" Calista barely had time to process this before Kallum was pulling her along.


    They hadn''t gotten far when Calista suddenly stopped. Her expression was a mix of confusion and irritation, yet she managed to maintain aposed exterior. Instead of voicing any frustrations, she simply handed the heavy bag back to Kallum with a hint of annoyance. "It''s so heavy. Did you do that on purpose?" sheined.


    "Huh?" Kallum appeared genuinely taken aback. This wasn''t going quite as he had nned. Indeed, the bag was heavier than necessary. After contemting for a brief moment, he hastily pulled out the only ck gold card he had brought with him and offered it to her, "Then, you take this!" He pressed the card into her hand firmly and exined, "You''ve been taking care of me without expecting anything in return. ept this as my way of showing my gratitude. Keep your money, and use mine whenever you need anything."


    Offering her an unlimited ck card aspensation struck Calista as both humorous and slightly ludicrous. Sensing that she might reject the gesture, Kallum decided to say nothing further and walked away with the cash.


    Calista caught up with him after a moment of hesitation. She did not return the card but instead inquired curiously, "Why are you withdrawing so much cash? Mostrge stores take cards these days, so there''s no real need for cash, and it tends to attract attention." As they walked, the attention of passersby was indeed drawn to the bulging bag of money.


    "Of course, it was necessary," Kallum responded enigmatically. "Now, let''s head somewhere else."


    Calista''s wariness was palpable. "This isn''t going to be another case of breaking into homes and dining and dashing, is it?"


    Kallum found himself in a


    challenging spot, his dark purple eyes shifting nervously. Speaking hurriedly he assured her, "We agreed you''re with me today, right? Whether it''s breaking into houses, dining and dashing, or even more extreme activities like robbing a bank, you''re in this together with me!"

 Chapter 349 Meeting An Old Classmate

    At that precise moment, a resolute conviction took root in him. His eyes locked on hers with an impassioned intensity, his voice filled with a fervent deration, "Today, we are unshackled by any titles or roles, not as patients or anything else. Here, in this anonymity, we can live freely as we wish! Are you okay with that?" He reached out his hand to Calista, illuminated by the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves above, which cast a golden hue on his beige shirt, making him seem almost ethereal.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Dazzled for a brief second by his radiant presence, Calista found herself instinctively sping his hand. "Yes."


    Meanwhile, in a narrow alley bathed in the quiet of the morning, a young woman with cropped hair hurried along, clutching a pot of steaming stew. She was on a mission to deliver it to the hospital urgently before continuing to her job. Yet, upon her arrival at the hospital, her path was abruptly blocked by a stern-faced nurse.


    "Ms. Levine, it''s already early December. Your family''s dy in settling the hospital bills has extended for two months now. We are not a charity here. If your family cannot resolve this soon, we cannot continue your mother''s treatment."


    This ultimatum ignited a desperate urgency in Rainey Levine.


    "Please, just give us a few more days. We''re about to sell our house, and we''ll have the money soon. Just two more days, I promise the payment will be made."


    The reality was grim; their small, aging house would hardly fetch enough to cover the expenses. Even with the house sold, the looming surgical fees remained a distant hurdle. If she hoped to gather sufficient funds, Rainey realized she would need to find another way quickly.


    The nurse, with a cold, knowing tone, responded, "I''ll extend your deadline by two days at most. If you fail to meet the payment by then, there''s nothing more we can do."


    With that, she walked away, her expression unyielding.


    Rainey watched her go, clutching the thermos close, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. Yet, sheposed herself and pressed on toward her mother''s hospital room, where her father, who had been up all night, awaited nourishment. Unexpectedly, she was met with a scene of distress and despair upon her arrival.


    "Oh, Lucas, just let me go! I''ve lived long enough, and I can''t bear this any longer. Even if we sell the house, it won''t cover the surgery. And if we do sell, where will you and Rainey live? We can''t sell the house!"


    The room was heavy with emotion as a frail, pale woman clutched the hands of a thin, dark-skinned man, her tears flowing freely. Other patients in the room cast sympathetic looks their way. Overwhelmed by the scene, Rainey''s tears finally escaped. "Mom! Please stop. We have to sell the house. I''ve found a way to manage the surgery fees. You have to fight through this."


    Her parents felt a surge of guilt seeing their daughter, who was now juggling three jobs daily to keep the family afloat.


    Tears continued to stream down Doreen''s face as she pleaded, "Maybe it would be better if I were gone. You wouldn''t have to suffer so much then..."


    Rainey embraced her mother tightly. shaking her head, "No, it''s not your fault. You and dad worked yourselves to the bone to give me an education, hoping I''d make something of myself. It''s me who''s let you down."


    "No, stop ming yourself..."


    Amid the sorrow filling the hospital room, outside, Kallum narrated to


    Calista, "This girl was once a top student and had secured a good position at a privatepany after graduating. But she stood up against her boss'' inappropriate demands, confronted him, and lost her job. Then her mother fell


    seriously ill."


    He continued, "She was working three jobs at that time. I heard she even considered selling herself to cover her mother''s surgery costs after calling the man who tried to exploit her. He agreed, and they nned to meet at a hotel tonight... Her name is Rainey. Do you remember her?" Calista''s response indicated she did remember, as Rainey was a ssmate once harmed by her actions and further humiliated by her stepmother.


    Kallum watched her silently, giving her time to process this flood of memories, his feelingsplex.


    He had brought Calista here as a deliberate choice. Wilbur mentioned that Calistas childhood was marred by guilt over hurting a friend who had reached out to her, which led to her withdrawing from rtionships. Haunted by the past, she avoided making new friends, fearing she might bring them harm of attract


    pity.


    Now stronger, she still maintained a distance, unable to move beyond superficial interactions, adhering to the notion that a no-strings-attached friendship was far superior.


    Kallum''s intention was clear-to confront the root of her childhood trauma, the guilt she carried about Rainey.


    "It''s her..." Calista murmured in astonishment. After so many years, Kallum had indeed found Rainey. She remembered her ssmate had to leave suddenly during their ninth-grade year.


    Calista thought she had forgotten,


    but the memory was still fresh in her mind. She recalled Rainey clearing out her desk at school. At first, Calista feared her stepmother had harmed Rainey, but a teacherter confirmed that Rainey''s father had lost his job due to an injury, and without the financial means to continue paying for a private school, Rainey had transferred to a public


    school where school fees were waived.

 Chapter 350 Shall We Talk

    Since that day long ago, Rainey had vanished from her lifepletely. The apology Calista had always wanted to offer but never dared to, coupled with Rain''s piercing words, "I hate you," had been buried deep within her memory, only to resurface now in a flood of emotion.


    She found herself pondering the hesitant nce Rainey had given her when she had left back then. Had Rainey also harbored words left unsaid? Did she want to say something to Calista at that moment?


    Noticing her pensive expression, Kallum queried softly, "Do you want to go in, or should I call Rainey out here?"


    Calista shook her head slightly, her voice quiet. "Let''s wait a bit, until shees out."


    They turned to find a nearby bench, but before they could take a step, the door behind them swung open. Rainey emerged, her eyes visibly red from crying. She had been on her way to work, yet the sight of Calista halted her in her tracks. "Is that you... Calista?"


    It was no surprise that Rainey recognized Calista instantly. From their childhood, Calista had possessed a distinctive beauty that made her unforgettable.


    Calista, appearing slightly tense, held her posture rigidly.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    At this juncture, Kallum intervened, stepping forward to hand Rainey the bag he was holding. "This is to cover the surgery fees."


    Rainey, caught off guard by the gesture, stared in confusion. Who is this guy, and why is he offering me a bag of money?


    Before his arrival, Kallum had already ascertained the kind of person Rainey was through previous inquiries; she was a proud individual, averse to epting charity despite her circumstances. Therefore, knowing that she desperately needed the money, he exined, "This quarter of a million, it''s a loan to you, Rainey. You were once a friend of Calista''s. She knows about your family''s situation and has offered this out of goodwill. We hope you won''t refuse."


    Rainey''s initial defenses melted away at his words. She clutched the money close, overwhelmed by a wave of relief and joy. If her own rtives had been willing to lend them money, she would never have considered such drastic measures as selling herself for just a hundred thousand.


    This isn''t a dream, is it?


    At that moment, Rainey''s father, Lucas Levine, approached with a puzzled expression. "What''s going on? Rainey, are they your friends?" Rainey nodded slowly, still dazed, as she responded to her father. Her eyes met Calista''s again, filled with a mix of guilt and uncertainty.


    "Should we... talk?" Rainey suggested, noticing that Calista seemed different now-more reserved, yet not hostile.


    Calista threw a quick nce in Kallum''s direction, and in response, Kallum patted her shoulder with reassurance and said, "Go ahead, I''ll wait for you here."


    Meanwhile, even as Lucas unexpectedly came into a significant amount of money, he remainedpletely in the dark about where it came from. Nevertheless, Kallum promptly took him to settle the bills. They were under pressure; Rainey''s mother''s health was deteriorating, and it was crucial that she received medical attention as quickly as possible.


    Observing Rainey, Calista could see


    91


    a simr restraint mirrored in Rainey''s demeanor. It seemed to both of them as though the entire world had transformed into a mysterious puzzle. Rainey had previously felt as if the world was on the verge of copse, overwhelmed by pervasive darkness and rampant injustice. However, the situation took a turn when an old friend from her childhood, whom she had wronged in the past, came forward to offer assistance. The unexpected help felt as miraculous as winning a grand prize lottery!


    "Shall we... go sit over there?" Rainey suggested, pointing toward a breakfast ce adjacent to the hospital.


    Calista agreed without hesitation.


    After they settled down and Calista finished her meal, she did not order more. Instead, Rainey, appearing to have unburdened herself, ordered a considerable amount of food.


    During this moment, Rainey received a phone call. After answering, she said firmly to the caller, "I''m sorry, but I quit. You''ll have to find someone else!"


    Upon ending the call, Rainey cheered triumphantly, a wave of satisfaction washing over her.


    "Calista, do you know? I was actually supposed to help pick up the kids at the kindergarten this morning. But the principal there is so


    temperamental and downright rude, not to mention creepy! I''ve been wanting to resign for a while now!" O


    Rainey''s candidness quickly diminished any awkwardness between them. Once she began talking, Calista felt a significant


    weight lift from her shoulders.


    "Good that you quit, then," Calista responded.


    She was on the verge of revealing that she controlled a vast fortune of ten billion. If Rainey was agreeable, she could easily lead her into a radically different lifestyle.


    However, Rainey shook her head and stated, "I still need to workter today and tonight. Don''t worry, I will definitely repay you as soon as I can. Please don''t judge me by my present circumstances; I''ve just been really unluckytely..." Recalling her mother''s prolonged illness, she sighed deeply and promised, "Three years, I promise I''ll repay everything, with interest."


    Calista''s response was neutral; it mattered little to her whether Rainey repaid the debt or not. Yet, she felt uncertain about how to respond, which added a certain stiffness to their interaction.


    It seemed that Calista''s distance


    was not intentional but rather a genuine uncertainty about how to interact, which made her appear rather nervous. As Rainey took a bite of herravioli, she suddenlyughed and remarked, "You''re not here just because you still feel guilty about that time your stepmother scolded me because of you when we were kids, right?"


    "To be honest, your stepmother really is quite fierce! How are you managing these days? Is she still treating you poorly?" Rainey asked rapidly, almost convinced that Calista''s past silence was heavily influenced by her stepmother''s harshness. Seeing Calista remain silent, Rainey interpreted it as an implicit agreement andfortingly patted her shoulder.


    Having secured the necessary funds for the surgery, Rainey''s demeanor softened. With a face full of empathy, she said, "It''s obvious that your stepmother is not a good person. You must have suffered a great deal over the years."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 351 Can You Forgive Me

    "I''m sorry," Calista suddenly blurted out. "What?" Rainey was taken aback.


    Rainey."


    "I... I''m sorry," Calista repeated, her gaze lowered as if she couldn''t bear to meet Rainey''s eyes. Her hands were sped tightly together, her guilt clearly evident. "I should have apologized to you a long time ago. I''m sorry for causing you to be humiliated like that by her, Rainey''s expression immediately became serious as she regarded Calista with deep intensity.


    However, instead of responding immediately, Rainey quietly continued eating her meal for a few moments before looking up with a smile and saying, "Actually, I should be the one apologizing." "Huh?" Calista looked at her, puzzled.


    Rainey shook her head self-deprecatingly. "Back then, I saw how tough your situation was at home. Yet, after your stepmother scolded me, I was too scared to confront her and unfairly took out my anger on you. You were already in a dire situation, and I just added to your emotional load. I was too weak."


    Caught in Calista''s somewhat bewildered gaze, Rainey chuckled softly, "You see, if I had been stronger back then, if I could have let it go, I believe we could have remained good friends. But I wasn''t. Not only did I fail to support you as a friend should, but I also berated you. After that, you became much more reserved, barely speaking more than necessary. I knew I was at fault, but I never had the courage to apologize until now."


    It seemed as if a light went on in Calista''s eyes, as she fixed her gaze on her friend.


    "Soter on, when you were considering changing schools, those numerous times you looked at me weren''t just figments of my imagination," Calista mentioned.


    Rainey replied with augh, "So you still remember! Yes, back then I wanted to apologize to you, but I was too timid to take that step, so I''m sorry."


    Calista inexplicably held her breath.


    "Would you forgive me? I never really disliked you, you know. You''re attractive and intelligent. Perhaps... I just despised my own inadequacy. So, could you find it in your heart to forgive me?"


    Calista slowly asked, "What about you, have you forgiven me?"


    Suddenly, Rainey found Calista''s current demeanor irresistibly charming. Sheughed heartily and said, "I forgave you a long time ago! After all, who can resist your wealth?"


    She was referring to the two hundred and fifty thousand but quickly changed the subject. Teasingly, she asked, "Honestly, was that guy who came with you today your boyfriend? He''s really handsome! But he doesn''t seem to have a good temper, mysteriously gave me a quarter million. I even thought he was trying to ask me to be his sugar baby!"


    Rainey exaggeratedly pulled a scared face.


    Unable to hold back, Calista burst intoughter. Herugh was like the first thaw after a long winter, dissolving all her previous restraint. To Rainey, it seemed as though Calista had finally regained a hint of her former self.


    Cradling her own heart, she murmured, "I take back what I just said. With a beauty like you by his side, if your boyfriend ever offered to take care of me, he''d definitely need to get his eyes checked."


    Calista blinked. "You''re quite good-looking too."


    Rainey was indeed quite attractive, with her short hair giving off an air of elegant simplicity.


    She let out a mournful cry. "Before I met you, I used to take pride when people called me beautiful. Now, it feels like an insult!"


    "That''s an exaggeration!" Calista


    retorted. Almost immediately after


    resolving their misunderstanding, Calista''s mood appeared to lift considerably, her face lighting with smiles more frequently as though the gloomy shadow that had lingered over her for many years had atst begun to dissipate.


    "You ought to take a good look at yourself in the mirror whenever you get a chance," Rainey advised her with a firm tone, adding confidently, "I''m willing to bet your boyfriend will be on his way to find you soon. It''s simply too risky to have you sitting


    out here by yourself!"


    As she made this remark, Rainey''s eyes casually scanned the other diners around them, noticing that quite a few were sneakily ncing in their direction.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Calista slightly pursed her lips and responded, "He''s... not my boyfriend."


    "Really? My vision hasn''t failed me yet; look, he indeed came looking for you!" Rainey eximed as she pointed out.


    Calista followed the direction of Rainey''s finger and sure enough, she observed Kallum making his way toward them. His steps were brisk, almost as if he was eager to sweep Calista away at any given moment. Raineymented with a hint of sarcasm, "Handsome and rich, indeed. It seems the good-looking men of today certainly have a discerning taste."


    Calista couldn''t deny it as she watched Kallum approach. She had to acknowledge that she felt significantly moreposed than earlier.


    "Have you two had a chance to talk?" Kallum inquired, his gaze meticulously evaluating Calista before he shifted his focus to Rainey.


    "Yeah, thank you both for your help. Please leave your contact information so I can reach you for repayment," Rainey requested. Kallum thoughtfully provided Quintus'' phone number to Rainey.


    After jotting down the number, Rainey realized she couldn''t stay much longer; she needed to return to her responsibilities at work.


    Before departing, Rainey turned to Calista and expressed with genuine sincerity, "I truly appreciate your help this time. If you hadn''t shown up unexpectedly, I might have ended up doing something I''ll regret.


    Calista understood precisely what she was referring to. She managed a slight smile, and as the tension between them eased, she naturally exuded a renewed sense of self-assurance.


    "If you ever find yourself in any trouble, remember, you can always reach out to me. After all, I am your creditor, aren''t I?"


    "You''re right!" Rainey chuckled, "What''s one more debt when you''re already saddled with it! So, allow me to express my gratitude in advance!


    "Take care."


    "Goodbye."

 Chapter 352 I Belong To You

    As Rainey walked away, Calista watched her for a long time, a subtle smile gracing her lips, indicating a sense of aplishment.


    She felt relieved that Rainey had refrained from using the term "friend" again. Although she had resolved some of her internal conflicts, she still found herself instinctively shying away from forming friendships, a habit that had be second nature over time. Rainey had chosen not to bring up their friendship because she recognized that she and Calista no longer shared the same world. Sitting together at a food truck, Calista seemed somewhat out of ce, asionally disying a formidable aura that was not typical for a youngdy. It was clear that the years had been challenging for Calista, hardening her and honing her edge. She no longer felt the need for friends.


    After sessfully wrapping up their earlier tasks, Kallum breathed a sigh of relief. Holding Calista''s hand, they began to stroll aimlessly.


    Kallum was notably more amiable when he was holding her hand. "What would you like for lunch?" he asked gently.


    "Let''s head back for lunch," Calista suggested.


    "Why?" Kallum seemed hopeful for a more romantic seaside lunch or something simr.


    Calista shot him a ring look, "We''re sick, remember? Can''t you at least act the part? Save your ns for when you''re better!"


    Kallum, surprisingly pleased by her stern demeanor, replied cheerfully, "All right then, once you''re better, it''ll just be the two of us going out again."


    Calista remained silent, and just then, Kallum''s phone rang. The smile on his face vanished as soon as he answered.


    "You''re telling me Quincy was bailed out by Marcus? And, he ns to announce Quincy as his fianc¨¦e the day after tomorrow?"


    In that instant, all of Kallum''s careful nning and joy dissipated. It felt as if Calista had suddenly been jolted awake from a dream, harshly pulled back to reality.


    "Marcus... It''s about time he showed his face," Calista mused darkly, a trace of menace flitting across her face despite her outwardly amused tone.


    Kallum found himself inwardly cursing the timing of the disruptive phone call. Quincy, a remarkably resourceful woman, had managed to find ways to leverage her situation even while confined within prison walls. It was also rumored that Marcus had been incarcerated during the same period. When Horatio, a figure of notable influence, managed to secure Marcus'' release, he made sure that Quincy was also freed as part of the arrangement.


    "The day after tomorrow? I think we should definitely make an appearance then," Calista dered decisively.


    Her words left no room for debate, and Kallum found no valid grounds to object, especially given the fact that Horatio was a respected elder, and traditionally, the Fairchild family was expected to attend any significant banquets. In the past, it was usually Ss who represented the family at such events, but this time, circumstances dictated that Kallum himself must attend.


    "Callie," Kallum began, feelingpelled to clearly state his position, he earnestly expressed, "It''s true that the Ingram family and ours maintain close ties, and Horatio is an elder whom I respect, but should your quest lead to vengeance, know that I will stand by your side, even if it brings us into conflict with the Ingrams. After all, none of these considerations can outweigh what you mean to me. Do you understand?"


    His intense gaze prated deep, striking Calista''s heart with the weight of his words.


    Throughout their rtionship,


    Kallum had consistently exhibited an exceptional degree of caution. Even his decisions to help her untangle


    her emotionalplexities were t


    eln


    made with a hesitancy that suggested fear of her potential refusal. His unwavering dedication now seemed to mark a profound shift from his previous demeanor, transforming from one extreme to another.


    Faced with this intense situation, Calista found herself caught in a maelstrom of conflicting emotions. On one hand, the instinct to push him away fiercely surged through her; on the other, his heartfelt deration pulled her toward an irresistible desire to draw him closer.


    In a moment of spontaneity,


    perhaps wanting to break free from the intensity of the situation, Calista decided to escape in her own unique way. Amidst the bustling crowd on the roadside, she unexpectedly rose on her tiptoes and, under the watchful gaze of the public, pressed her lips to Kallum''s. This kiss, impromptu and bold, was her way of showing gratitude for the efforts he had made that day, which she genuinely appreciated.


    Kallum, taken by surprise, instinctively held onto her, their presence on the busy street notwithstanding.


    It seemed as though Calista was intentionally challenging him, enticing him as she deepened the kiss with a gentle exploration of her tongue.


    The passersby around them paused,


    their attention captured not just by


    the act of kissing, which was not umon, but by the striking allure of the couple themselves. The


    palpable chemistry and the


    affection evident in their kiss stirred a flutter of emotions among the onlookers, igniting a collective


    excitement.


    As Kallum responded, closing his eyes and cradling her hair tenderly, the surrounding crowd, particrly the younger females, couldn''t help but let out an excited shriek, overwhelmed by the romantic disy.


    After savoring his lips, Calista, her cheeks tinged with a slight flush, pulled back. Observing Kallum''s dark, intense eyes and his gritted teeth, as though he was holding back a fierce desire, she gave a triumphant smile, tilting her head yfully and winking at him. "We agreed, today I''m entirely yours, so let''s save some issues for tomorrow," she teased, her voice light and flirtatious.


    This response ignited a spark in Kallum''s eyes, his previous actions affirmed by her softened demeanor.


    He withdrew his hand only to pull her into a closer embrace once more, his gaze burning with intensity as he asked her, "You belong to me? Does that mean I can do anything I want?"


    Calista chuckled softly, her fingers teasingly tugging at his cor. She provocatively responded, "Until midnight, what would you like to do with me?"


    Do you really need to ask?


    Kallum responded earnestly, his voice thick with emotion, "I want you, I''m going mad with desire!"


    Calista expressed a yful regret, "But you can''t..."Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    She shed a mischievous grin. "Did you forget? You initiated this game, so you must abide by the rules. There are certain things I, as a minor, can''t do."


    Kallum moved closer, his gaze fiery with intensity, "Yet, there are those who dare to taste the forbidden fruit!"


    Calista brushed his chin gently, herughter light and filled with implication. "But did you forget? I''m a good girl, the most obedient kind. I''ve liked you for so long, loved you beyond return, yet didn''t I only offer myself to you after we both turned eighteen?"

 Chapter 353 Behaving Like A Normal Couple

    Her words ignited a powerful warmth within Kallum''s heart, causing his breathing to be slightly erratic as he held Calista even tighter. His arm muscles tensed, a testament to his heightened emotions.


    "I love it when you say you love me, Darling. Could you say it a few more times?" Kallum asked, his voice tinged with a blend of eagerness and desire.


    Calista finally shot him a nce. "Can you read the room? We''re still on the main road, and a lot of people are watching you..."


    But for Kallum, such trivial matters were of no consequence. His piercing gaze swept across the bustling street, causing the love-struck women around him to gasp in suppressed awe. He looked at Calista, a headache beginning to form. ""You did it on purpose!"


    Teasing him intentionally on the bustling streets, watching as he struggled to resist yet had no choice but to restrain himself, was the thing that Calista, the little rascal, loved to do the most!


    "Yeah, I did it on purpose," Calista admitted with augh, ncing at therge clock on the bell tower not far away. "You have fourteen hours left to have a ''conversation'' with me under the covers. Are you going to waste time here?" Kallum chuckled, a mischievous smile ying on his lips as he gently pinched her cheek. "Little vixen, how did you know I wanted to chat with you under the quilt?"Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Even if the bystanders couldn''t hear their conversation, the palpable sexual tension between them was enough to send shivers down their spines. They even had the distinct impression that, had they not been on the street, the girl would surely have been swept off her feet.


    Calista ced a finger on his lips, halting any further actions from Kallum. "Before, it was you who led me on this chase. Now, it''s my turn to lead you."


    A glimmer of starlight appeared in her eyes, filled with anticipation, as she said, "I''ve always wondered how normal couples fall in love, those patterns of interaction. I want to try them all."


    And so, the next thing he knew, Kallum found himself being led to the department store by Calista. As she picked out clothes, sheughed and asked, "Is there a better way to start than with matching outfits?"


    Kallum was initially resistant to the clothes. Not only were they of average quality, but their design was also quite tacky. However, when Calista twirled in front of him wearing a lovely pink sweater and a white woolen skirt, Kallum resigned himself to wearing a matching pink sweater and white casual pants. Both of them wore identical white sneakers. Just like that, Kallum looked every bit a vibrant university student.


    Their first stop was the arcade, not to y any games, but merely to soak in the ambiance. From there, they moved on to the cinema, catching a newly released romance film. Their final stop was the food street by the pier. As it was Christmas, the authorities had granted special permission for the sale of handheld fireworks for the day. Thus, many couples could be seen enjoying their meals while setting off fireworks, filling the entire street with a festive spirit.


    Calista was having a st and seeing her joy, Kallum gradually joined in the merriment. When they eventually grew tired, they found themselves sitting by the river that flowed into the sea, gazing at the distant Ferris wheel. They shared a cup of hot cocoa, and in that moment, they both found peace within.


    "Thank you. Without your improved inhibitor, someone like me could never venture into such crowded ces, let alone have such a good time."


    Calista sped his hands around his face, her tone full of determination. "That''s not a big deal. The antiserum had already formed yesterday. After some time, once we''ve confirmed its stability and it has passed all the experimental tests, we can then return to being normal humans again."


    Although he had always known that the experiment was progressing rapidly, these advancements were all built on Calista''s personal trials


    Kallum


    Reflecting on her pain madehough


    feel ufortable. So, even though he knew he might be getting better,


    he didn''t feel excited at thank


    moment. Instead, he felt a sense of relief that she wouldn''t have to


    suffer anymore.


    Calista hugged her knees, gazing at the distant Ferris wheel with a wistful look in her eyes. "Once you''re better, what''s the first thing you want to do?" she asked. Kallum looked at her, the words "I want to marry you" almost slipped from his lips.


    However, he didn''t voice his thoughts. Instead, he reached out, guiding her to rest her head on his shoulder.


    At that moment, a few children carrying sparklers ran past. As if performing a magic trick, Kallum produced two sparklers.


    "Do you want to set off some sparklers?" he asked, a yful glint in his eyes.


    "When did you get these?" Calista asked, a hint of surprise in her tone.


    "When you were off buying hot cocoa. Do you like it?"


    "I do..." Calista gazed earnestly as Kallum ignited the sparkler, then handed it to her. The beautiful sparkler gnited at his fingertips, and at such a close distance, it made the stars in Calista''s eyes shine even brighter. It left Kallum breathless.


    "I''ve asked this before, right?"


    "Hm?" Calista looked up at him, her eyes sparkling like two clusters of fireworks, making everything in sight unbelievably beautiful.


    Kallum reached out, his fingers gently tracing her face, lingering at the corners of her eyes. With a puzzled expression, he asked, "I remember, your eyes didn''t used to be like this, did they?" Even though they were already quite stunning, they were nothingpared to their current brilliance. It was as if they held crushed stars within, making them a pair of eyes unlike any other in the world. Calista was taken aback for a moment, then slowly broke into a smile. "It''s quite peculiar to me as well," she said, "that reincarnation somehow managed to bring over things from my previous life..." The topic of the previous life suddenly reminded Kallum of something. Although it was inappropriate, and he shouldn''t have said it at that time, under such a rxed atmosphere, Kallum couldn''t help himself.

 Chapter 354 A Game Of Telepathy

    "You said that you''ve loved me for decades, did you not?" Kallum asked.


    With a smile, Calista looked at him, her expression somewhat mysterious. "So... what would you like to know?"


    Recalling the sudden change in Calista''s temperament two years ago, and her desire to dissolve their engagement, Kallum found himself asking a question that had haunted him. He knew it was potentially self-destructive, but he couldn''t suppress his desire to know. "If you''ve had feelings for me for such a long time, what exactly made you suddenly fall out of love with me?"


    In that fleeting moment, the sparkler in Calista''s hand extinguished. As the light vanished, Kallum snapped back to reality, regretting that he had actually asked the question.


    The moonlight cast upon Calista''s face, lending her smile a particrly chilling appearance. Discarding the now-cold fireworks from her hand, Calista extended her hand toward Kallum. "If you''re so curious, then allow me to take you to onest ce." Kallum grasped her hand, and in that instant, she revealed a somewhat crazed smile. "Are you ready to venture into another world?" she asked.


    In the bustling Horington, could there possibly be another world?


    Indeed, there was.


    Once the heart of activity in this seaside metropolis, Azure Bay Pier had been the most vibrant area. The colorful lights illuminating the buildings on both shores made it the most beautiful nightscape in Chanaea. Every evening, throngs of people flocked there to take boat rides and admire the stunning view, turning the area into a major revenue generator for the city. The hot cocoa Calista bought earlier was priced at an extravagant eighty-eight a cup, a clear sign of the area''s prosperity.


    The ce they found themselves in was thest vestige of the old town district, a unique area where geological constraints prevented the construction of towering skyscrapers. The absence of convenient transportation and proximity to water had left it neglected during the city''s renovation, causing it to be synonymous with dpidation and disorder.


    Property prices here were a stark contrast to those of Azure Bay, standing out like a blemish on the luxurious hem of Horington.


    Kallum''s memories of this ce were filled with images of rarely frequented streets. Yet, upon arriving, he was taken aback to find the old town district even livelier than the newly bustling Azure Bay. Shops on both sides of the street were wide open, and people flooded the flea market, strolling through the vibrant scene. ?ountless children weaved through the crowd, while the continuous shouts of vendors echoed around them.


    Calista went to buy another cup of hot cocoa, and this time it cost her only a fraction of the price. Handing it to Kallum, she asked, "Can you taste any difference?"


    Kallum took a sip but immediately spat it out, the stark contrast between the taste of fake cocoa and real cocoa was unmistakable. Despite his disapproving look, Calista happily bit onto the straw and pulled him toward the most crowded area. Ahead of them stood thergest amusement park in the old town district, buzzing with life on a grand celebration day, as children ran wild with excitement.


    "Shall we y a telepathy game?" Calista''s enthusiasm was palpable, even more pronounced than during the day. Despite the surrounding noise, Kallum could clearly hear the joy in her voice.


    "Sure, we can y games, but with so many people here, wouldn''t it be better to go somewhere else?" Kallum suggested, his concern for their physical conditions evident. The crowded environment made him nervous.


    Amidst the bustling sounds of peddlers, Calista chuckled, batting her eyes yfully. "If there were fewer people, there would be no challenge. Let''s have some fun!"


    Seeing her in such high spirits and even yfully flirting, Kallum found himselfpletely defenseless against her charm, much like any man in love with his girlfriend. He looked at her with eyes that suggested he had utterly surrendered to her allure. "All right, let''s y. How do you want to y?" he asked, conceding to her excitement.


    Calista was satisfied, pointing at the amusement park in front of them. She cheerfully said, "Let''s part ways for now. If you can find me here


    victory. Rest assured, I won''t be hiding. Instead, I''ll be waiting in a conspicuous spot for you to find me."


    before midnight, consider it your ne


    Kallum raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "If I win, is there a prize?"Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    "Of course, there is." Calista''s eyes sparkled with mischief as she suddenly tiptoed to nt a kiss on the corner of his mouth. Their eyes met, and she moved forward ambiguously, smiling as she spoke. "If you win, I''ll not only reveal the answer to your question, but tonight, I''m also yours."


    The reward stirred a sudden excitement in Kallum, his violet eyes lighting up like fireworks. He found himself increasingly unable toprehend the woman before him. Despite not knowing what Calista was nning, he was irresistibly drawn to her allure. "You said it!" he eximed, hispetitive spirit fully aroused. Winning her over and advancing their rtionship-could anything be more enticing?


    "I wouldn''t lie to you." Calista replied with a mysterious smile, gradually stepping back before finally running off.


    Amidst the bustling crowd, Kallum lost sight of her in an instant. However, this didn''t deter him. On the surface, they appeared alone, but for safety reasons, many people were hidden around them for protection, unbeknownst to Calista. Kallum made a call, instructing, "Stay close to her, protect her, and once she settles, let us know her location."


    The voice on the other end of the phone was cold and ruthless, belonging to Quintus. "Understood."


    Kallum held his phone, a smile ying on his lips. He believed in telepathy and in his ability to find her based purely on intuition. But what he craved was certainty, a guarantee. Even if destiny wasn''t on his side, he was determined to create his own! Callie, tonight you''re mine!


    However, Kallum was unfamiliar


    with the local customs. In the old town district a unique Christmas Eve tradition existed. Three hours before midnight, the power would go out on the hour, every hour. During those five minutes of darkness, the sky would ignite with magnificent fireworks, creating a spectacr disy seen only within the old town walls.

 Chapter 355 Chaos Was Her Best Refuge

    So, while Calista was being followed, the once dazzling amusement park suddenly plunged intoplete darkness. The surrounding people let out gasps of surprise and confusion. In just the blink of an eye, Calista had vanished from the sight of Quintus and the others. Boom!


    A breathtakingly beautiful firework exploded in the sky, causing many to stop and gaze upward in awe. Amidst the dazzling disy, Kallum suddenly grew anxious.


    ""You lost her?"


    "Yes," came the reply. "In the blink of an eye, we were plunged into darkness. Before our eyes could adjust, Ms. Stafford had disappeared. We are in the midst of searching for her." Kallum slightly furrowed his brows, now understanding the meaning behind the mysterious smile Calista had gave him before she left. She must have foreseen this situation earlier. "One person stays at the entrance while the others continue the search. Report any updates to me immediately."


    "Understood."


    After ending the call, Kallum felt an inexplicable sense of relief. It seemed that moving forward, he could only rely on his intuition to find her.


    After the fireworks ceased, the amusement park was once again brightly lit. Kallum nced at his watch; it had just passed ten o''clock, meaning he still had two hours left to find her.


    He headed deeper into the amusement park, determined.


    Suddenly, a person dressed as a rabbit approached him, pockets filled with all sorts of candies. "Do you want to buy some candy?" the rabbit asked.


    The sound of Kallum''s phone ringing echoed, and he shook his head, dismissing the rabbit mascot who then hobbled away.


    Kallum watched the retreating figure, deep in thought. Calista had said she wouldn''t hide but would wait for him in a ce impossible to miss.


    He had his eyes fixed on the rabbit for quite some time before he finally shifted his gaze. After a while, a soft gasp caught his attention. He walked over to see a person dressed as a magician, wearing a mask, and suddenly spewing fire from their hands. Many children watched from the side, their eyes wide with awe and surprise. Their continuous exmations made this one of the liveliest spots in the amusement park.


    Kallum''s gaze lingered on the magician for a long while, finally settling on a scar revealed when the magician rolled up his sleeves. It appeared to be an old burn mark.


    There were so many oddly dressed people in the amusement park, it made Kallum wonder. If Calista were to disguise herself, what persona would she choose to adopt?


    The magic show continued, but Kallum didn''t linger for long. He kept moving, navigating through the circryout of the amusement park. He was certain he would find the person who sparked the strongest "connection" with him.


    Up ahead, there were acrobatics being performed. A few girls, who appeared quite young, moved as if they were boneless, their stunts eliciting gasps of surprise from the crowd. Suddenly, Kallum understood why Calista had asked him to meet her here.


    She wanted him to see a group of peoplepletely different from anyone he had encountered before.


    These were individuals who seemed to have been forsaken by fate from the moment they were born. They toiled relentlessly, sweating profusely, to earn their meager ie. Onlookers oftenughed, but those performing usually remained expressionless, leading most of them to don masks.


    This realization made him somewhat ufortable. In his eyes, his Callie, being such a beautiful and kind girl, shouldn''t have had any involvement with these people.


    Calista was kind-hearted. Even when


    her temperament drastically changed, she held on to her inherent goodness. This was no easy feat. As Wilbur had said, when people face great adversity, they might lose their minds. Considering that she only became indifferent, she was a miracle in herself. She didn''t go mad, perhaps because her nature was pure. No matter how tainted the


    world became, it couldn''t darken her.


    At that moment, Kallum spotted a clown, an incredibly exquisite clown. Even with just a glimpse of her profile, despite her skin being painted a ghostly white and her face adorned with exaggerated colors, these hues oddly enhanced her allure. She exuded an indescribable charm.


    Many people would nce back at her as they passed by. She was holding arge bunch of balloons, distributing them one by one to the pedestrians.


    ""Callie!" Kallum called out.


    The clown turned her head, facing him directly. Her eyes, brilliant as stars, seemed to carry a hint of amusement.


    Just as Kallum joyfully weaved his


    way through the crowd to reach her,


    a sudden gasp echoed around them. The amusement park was once again plunged into darkness. By the time Kallum regained his senses, all he saw were countless balloons soaring toward the sky, illuminated by the exploding fireworks. However, he could no longer find her amidst the spectacle.


    "Callie?" Kallum called out again, his impatience growing. He had finally realized that ever since Calista had brought him to the old town district, her mood had been somewhat off. This unsettling realization had gradually made him anxious. All he wanted was to find her quickly. The fireworks in the sky continued to burst in magnificent colors. Around Kallum, countless families gathered together, looking up in awe and reflecting on the past year. Yet, he stood alone, racing his mind as he searched the amusement park for a certain individual. Why did she dress up as a clown? She suddenly wanted to y a game. What was she intending?C0ntent ? 2024 (N/?)velDrama.Org.


    Calista''s familiarity with the old town district was proof that she had lived here in her previous life. Perhaps she was hiding from someone, and the chaotic nature of the old town district served as her best refuge.


    The reason she didn''t flee to another city may have been because there were still things in Horington that she held dear.


    If the one seeking to drive her to her


    death was powerful and influential, she had no choice but to adopt a fake identity to avoid being found., However such an identity wouldn''t pass any job market verification. She was like an undocumented


    individual without an identity, forced to take on informal jobs and earn a hard-fought ie. She''d be just like the magician I''d just seen... Or was she more like a clown?

 Chapter 356 Do Not Play With Things Like That

    So Calista yed the role of a clown. Was it because she had been a clown in her past life? Was he trying to help her understand her past?


    Kallum abruptly halted in his tracks, his heart throbbing incessantly. The suffocating feeling was a result of his spections.


    Even if Callie had worked in an amusement park in her previous life, she didn''t know magic or acrobatics. She wasn''t disabled, so she couldn''t rely on sympathy drawn from a disability or earn money by selling candy. She couldn''t even show her face. So even if she had dressed up as a clown, how was she supposed to make money?


    Unexpectedly, Kallum turned around, sprinting toward a spot he had previously run past.


    In the midst of a vast sandy expanse stood a solitary figure surrounded by a throng of people. Each of them held a variety of colorful paint packets in their hands, which they then hurled unmercifully at the lone individual in the sand.


    This was a ce for venting emotions, where the price of a packet of paint ranged from a few bucks to twenty. Yet, it was capable of leaving vivid, colorful marks on anyone in the sandbox.


    Moreover, the sensation of pain differed with each packet of pigment that struck the body, providing a sort of sadistic pleasure.


    People could hide in the sand, but under the relentless assault of the crowd,yers uponyers of paint umted on her body. Her face, adorned with the makeup of a clown, wore a fixed smile. This created the illusion that no matter how much she was hit, she was always smiling. This only fueled the dissatisfaction of the spectators, who purchased even harder paint packets to throw at her.


    Moreover, the individual in the desert remained silent regardless of how much she was pummeled. She stumbled several times, yet she simply stood back up and continued to evade, further igniting the challenger''s desire to provoke. A myriad of colors exploded around her, and her clown-like smile was truly iconic, her eyes outshining even the stars.


    "Hey handsome, interested in joining the justice alliance to drive away the wicked clown? I''ve got a variety of weapons here. Ink packets hurt the most, but they''re also the most expensive! Twenty-one in total. I also have paint packets, and colored water packets, all at different prices. Do you want to give it a try? It''s really fun!"


    The stall owner, sporting clown makeup, was cheerfully pitching his wares to Kallum.


    Kallum was jolted awake by his voice. In a sudden fit of madness, he pushed through the crowd and dashed toward the sandy ground.


    "Huh? What are you-" The boss'' words were abruptly cut off as Quintus covered his mouth. Members of the Fairchild family appeared one after another, intervening to prevent the so-called "justice fighters" from inflicting harm. There was a wave of discontent, but Kallum simply didn''t care anymore.


    The final vibrant red paint packet hit the clown squarely on the head. Her head tilted from the impact, and a thick, blood-like color trickled down from her forehead. Her painted face was smiling, and her eyes were as if saying, "You''ve finally found me." Suddenly, Kallum''s eyes welled up with tears. He reached out to wipe her face, but how could he erase theyers of hardships etched on it? She was like a clown, toyed with and struggling at the very bottom of society.


    "Why?"


    Kallum''s voice trembled as he looked at Calista, his eyes filled with confusion. He had rushed over at a nce earlier because he believed that Calista wouldn''t allow herself to be hit by others. But why would she demean herself in such a way?


    "This was how I made a living in my


    past life," Calista said, cradling his hand. She steadied her breath before continuing softly, "I was once a fugitive running for my life. But in the end, a powerful longing drew me back to this city. I had nothing left then. Being alive under the same sky as you was the only faith theld onto in my despair. Kallum, can you feel it? My love for you is so deep that I disregard my own life. Can you feel it?"


    With a smile, Calista gently guided his hand to the location of her heart. She pressed it firmly against her chest, her face radiating pure bliss and contentment. It was as if she had truly found all she had ever wanted.


    "Dad passed away, our business copsed, and the Wolfords and the Ingram family were after me. To avoid causing trouble for my godmother, I didn''t seek your help. That''s why I became the clown in the old city district, forever in makeup, earning a living through the venting of others'' frustrations."


    Calista shook her head with a smile. "Was it really because I fear the inconvenience? I''m just too scared to appear before you again. I have nothing, and I''m disfigured. Loving you has etched my inferiority deep into my bones. But I can''t give up. My feelings for you are the only thing I have left! I can''t give up, but why, you ask, did I stop loving you in the end?"


    The surroundings were in an uproar, clearly oblivious to what had just transpired. Unexpectedly, Kallum covered her mouth.


    "I don''t want to know anymore!"


    Regardless of the reasons she didn''t love him, he still had a chance to make her fall for him. There surely was still an opportunity.


    "No, I have something to say." Calista narrowed her eyes and smiled. "That time, you brought your cousin to the old town district for an inspection, intending to acquire the entire area to build thergest mansion district in Horington. Back then, when your cousin threw an ink packet at me, you didn''t recognize me..."


    Calista gently touched her own face,


    her voice barely more than a


    whisper. "But when I saw you, IPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    couldn''t even breathe! I was afraid you would see my ugliness, so I kept my head down, taking the hits without hiding or making a sound you know? At that time, my heart was in my throat. You were so handsome and noble, like a deity, always surrounded by people with someone to clear your path. And I was just a clown, too afraid to remove my makeup... Back then, your cousin asked you with augh, ''Kallum, why doesn''t she dodge or scream? Could she be a fool?'' You, who were discussing matters with others, merely frowned and replied in an impatient tone, ''Don''t y with things like that."

 Chapter 357 Taking Advantage

    Calista clenched her fists, gritting her teeth as she red at him. "Don''t y with things like that?"


    Kallum was forced to step back by her gaze. She chuckled softly. "From that moment, I suddenly understood. I, who had already fallen into the mud, my affection for you, to you, was nothing more than a stain. No, I should say that my very existence is a stain!" "No, it''s not!" Kallum stared at her intently, vehemently denying her ims over and over again.


    "You''re not. You''re not! I''m sorry, Callie. I won''t ask anymore. I won''t ask anymore. I''m sorry..."


    "You asked why my eyes have turned out this way?"


    Calista''s emotions gradually cooled down. She gave a bitter smile and said, "Because when thest shred of hope was shattered, I cried for three days until I couldn''t see anymore. Then, I hastily sought treatment. After it got better, my eyes turned into what they are now. Do they look good? You''ve mentioned several times that my eyes are beautiful. Are they really-"


    Before she could utter herst word, her lips were silenced as Kallum lifted her face and kissed her passionately.


    As though hot tears had fallen on her face, he disregarded the extensive ink stains on her body, pulling her tightly into his embrace, fearing that he would lose her if he loosened his grip for even a moment.


    Suddenly, the entire amusement park was plunged into darkness. At the stroke of midnight, the park was buzzing with excitement. Taking advantage of the darkness, someone resentfully hurled theirst packet of paint toward the two people wrapped in an embrace, kissing. It hurt a lot. Kallum blocked all the sneak attacks, only then realizing that getting hit really did hurt!


    A stunning array of fireworks exploded overhead as Kallum released her lips. He looked at her, speaking so gently, as if he was afraid to startle her.


    "Will you marry me? If you despise me, you can stay by my side to punish me! However you choose to punish me, as long as you stay... Callie, please marry me... I beg you!"


    He hadpletely abandoned his pride, so what did it matter if he begged? All he wanted was for her to marry him.


    Calista lifted her head, revealing an enchantingly beautiful smile reminiscent of a jester''s. It was as if fireworks were blooming in her eyes, a sight too breathtaking to behold. "Before, I was always indecisive, unsure of how to treat you, but now, I know."


    She tiptoed, whispering softly into his ear, her lips moving slowly.


    "You weren''t actually wrong, but I must still punish you. So, this is your punishment... I''ll be your younger sister and have you dote on me for a lifetime. How does that sound?"


    Under the astonished gaze of Kallum, Calista, like a child who had sessfully pulled off a prank, leaped from his embrace and twirled around.


    "Are you happy? I racked my brain for a long time toe up with this punishment! It''s a win-win solution! It satisfies your ''not leaving'' and also prevents me from feeling ''disgusted''. There really isn''t a better solution than this!"


    Kallum''s heart pounded wildly. This wasn''t what he wanted. He desired more than just "not leaving." His wants went beyond that. He yearned for... he yearned for so much more!


    "Kallum, are you dissatisfied with my final decision?" Calista asked, herughter innocent and harmless. Her delicate face had a very yful vibe.


    Kallum''s lips moved, but he couldn''t


    eliet


    utter a single word... Calista was emotionally unstable, and he had once again touched a raw nerve. he continued speaking, the consequences would only be more intense than the current situation.


    He knew that these past few days, Calista had been hesitant toward him. He had tried his best to prove himself, even pleading for her to stay. But it wasn''t for this oue... No, it wasn''t! "My dear brother, why aren''t you speaking? Are you unhappy with my choice?"


    Calista took a step closer, shing a smile as she winked.


    She was now in possession of billions in assets, her character was extreme and she acted as she pleased. There was nothing that could hold her back. In reality, she had no need to y the role of his sister. She could live more freely. So, it Kallum was unwilling to agree, then so be it. They could part ways without any hard feelings.


    Kallum knew in his heart what was happening and, for the same reason, he too found himself backed against a cliff.


    Asking him to say yes was akin to enduring the ceaseless scraping of a steel knife across his heart. Those few words felt as heavy as a thousand pounds. He simply couldn''t utter them.


    A cold glint surfaced in Calista''s eyes, a hint of defeat evident. With a dismissive wave of her hand, she spoke in a disappointed tone. "It seems you''re not willing, then..."


    "No..." Kallum''s hand, resting by his side, gradually clenched. He knew he had no other choice.


    "I... agree!"


    With a smile, Calista revealed her pearly white teeth, yet she continued to press on. "Well... If you''re going to act like a brother, then you should behave like one. From now on, you can''t just casually hold me, kiss me, or sleep with me, okay?"


    She touched her lips lightly. "Can you do that?"


    At that moment, Kallum felt humiliated. When she first showed him her defensive prickles, he felt so lost, so angry. Yet, he was helpless...


    "Are you really going to do this? Even if I beg you..."


    "If begging would make any difference, then I beg of you, to eradicate all the hatred in my heart." Calista pointed at her chest, articting each word with a smile.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Driven to desperation by the one he loved, cornered with no way out, Kallum was in agony. At the same time, a wicked thought surfaced within him. She''s only taking advantage of my love for her. She''s only exploiting my love for her.


    She''s punishing me for things I hadn''t done. It''s not fair!


    She''s simply taking advantage of my love for her!

 Chapter 358 Help Her Move

    Therefore, even if I cast aside my dignity to plead with her, it wouldn''t earn me an ounce of her pity.


    The intense fury, indignation, and humiliation caused Kallum''s face to flush red. Suddenly, he looked at her and began to sneer.


    "Heh, wouldn''t it be better if I just moved out altogether? It''s not proper for men and women to live under the same roof if they''re not rted. How can we stay in the same house?" Calista narrowed her eyes. "You''re right."


    She briefly assessed her own financial situation and realized that buying a small house near Fairchild Manor was not a big deal at all.


    "It seems we''ve reached an agreement, my dear brother. When will you announce my ''miscarriage'' to the world, followed by our emotional discord, ultimately leading to me bing your sister?" Seeing her so eager to sever ties with him, Kallum once again felt a pain akin to being pricked by a needle.


    He was practically gasping for breath, but this time, he was determined not to back down, not ever.


    "Suit yourself!"


    Kallum forced these words through gritted teeth, then turned around. "I will never beg you again. I absolutely won''t beg you!"


    Calista gave no response, and she just watched him walk away. Her gaze was calm and undisturbed. It was exactly like Wilbur''s words-her sorrow wouldn''t deepen regardless of who left.


    Everyone else had left, only Quintus came over with a helpless expression. "Ms. Stafford, did you have another argument with Mr. Kallum? Why? He''s been trying so hard to please you, even reading numerous psychology books and frequently asking Mr. Sutton for advice on how to get along with you... I''ve never seen Mr. Kallum be so careful with anyone before, Ms. Stafford... He truly likes you."


    Once the fireworks had ended, people around her began to depart in small groups. Calista stood there, looking profoundly lonely.


    She wiped her face, and in an instant, it was awash with vibrant colors.


    "I know he likes me," Calista said with a softugh. "I''m also grateful, for he had put up with me until now, but..."


    Suddenly, Calista looked at Quintus, her eyes bright and sparkled. But upon closer inspection, it wasn''t that at all. It was the shimmer of tears.


    "But do you know?" She pointed at her chest repeatedly. "All that''s left here is ''hatred''. It was love that drove me to despair, but it was hatred that kept me alive. All I have left is hatred... How can I love someone again?"Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "Mr. Kallum, Ms. Stafford has rented a scenic mansion on a slope not too far from here."


    ""Let her be!"


    "Mr. Kallum, Ms. Stafford mentioned that theb is quite busy, so she won''t being over for dinner."


    ""Let her be!"


    "Mr. Kallum, Ms. Stafford is packing her bags and nning to move out!"


    Even after a lot of mental preparation, when the time really came for Calista to move out, Kallum was still boiling with anger. His eyes were aze, burning away his sanity.


    Just at that moment, Wanda arrived. She ushered Quintus out of the room and waited until only Kallum was left before she started speaking, her brows furrowed.


    "Kallum, did you and Callie have another argument? She actually told me that you agreed to let her be your little sister..."


    Kallum couldn''t help but sneer. His eyes, as deep as twilight, were fixed on his mother.


    "Did she also ask you to hurry me along, to spread the news of her miscarriage sooner, so she could easily get rid of me?"


    Wanda paused for a moment, then said in a hushed voice, "She mentioned that she would intensify her research during this period... Once you guys are fine, she''ll then announce the news of the


    ¦«¦Ï¦Ô


    miscarriage."


    At this point, Wanda''s eyes lit up again. "From what she''s implying, you two will be able to make amends soon. God willing. Even though I knew this day woulde, I didn''t expect it to arrive this fast!" Unlike Wanda''s obvious delight, Kallum''s expression grew even more somber, as if a storm was brewing.


    As expected, she had everything


    prepared, ready to sever all ties with him. y the role of his little sister? Ha, he doubted she''d even


    §ï§ä


    remembered which way Fairchild Manor''s front door faced in a few years. Could one really expect someone as cold-hearted and indifferent to visit frequently?


    The more he thought about it, the angrier he became, prompting Kallum to abruptly stand up. He was determined to stop her. Did she think Fairchild Manor was a ce she coulde and go as she pleased? Seeing her son''s face filled with resentment, Wanda didn''t even have to think before grabbing hold of him. "Where are you going?" she asked.


    "Isn''t she nning to leave? I''ll go and help her move!"


    Kallum spoke insincerely.


    Wanda found herself torn betweenughter and tears. Howe her son, who was usually soposed, became utterly helpless when he encountered Callie?


    "If you rush over there in your current state of anger, I can''t imagine any oue other than further straining your rtionship."


    "Then what more can I do?" Upon hearing this, Kallum angrily red at Wanda.


    "All this time, I''ve been the one backing down. I even begged her to marry me! But she..."


    Speaking of this, Kallum was reminded of that night. Calista, covered in vibrant ink, wasughing heartily, her every move pressing him relentlessly. He was utterly defenseless against her. Wanda let out a sigh.


    "But Callie is a patient..."


    She pushed Kallum onto the couch. "She has done so much for you, so what''s the harm in you, a grown man, giving in to her for once?"


    A bitter taste lingered in Kallum''s


    mouth, unsure how to convey to Wanda that it wasn''t a matter of giving in Heprehended that even if he trampled on his own


    dignity, Calista would not ch


    her


    mind. That was why he had spoken those words that day, hoping to make his defeat appear less disgraceful.

 Chapter 359 Cannot Back Down

    Seeing that Kallum remained silent, Wanda huffed. "Tell me. Do you really want to just stand by and watch Callie move out?" Of course, I don''t want to!


    Every time Kallum thought about Calista packing her bags, he couldn''t help but wish he could burn down her new home.


    Catching a glimpse of Kallum, Wanda knew what was on his mind. He''s still thinking of Callie. They had a heated argument, and with Kallum''s pride, he couldn''t back down for the moment. But Callie is about to leave, not giving him a chance to make amends. So, in his desperation, he had no choice but to adopt a strong-arm tactic.


    Wanda shook her head. "Callie is not like other girls. I had no idea she had such a tough childhood... That''s why she''s destined to be more sensitive, a bit harder to pursue than others. And you, you''ve already taken a hundred steps, what''s another hundred? Compared to her second chance at life, what''s trying one more time?"Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Wanda spoke intentionally in this manner. She could tell that Kallum didn''t want to let Calista go. Since he couldn''t swallow his pride to speak up, and Calista didn''t provide him a way out, she, as an elder, decided to step in and break the ice.


    Kallum found himself somewhat moved. Despite his deration that night that he would never plead with her again, he couldn''t help but soften whenever he thought of her in her disheveled clown makeup. Her eyes, filled with sorrow yet smiling, always tugged at his heartstrings. He was somewhat regretful for having spoken so harshly.


    Should I give in to Calista?


    Kallum felt resistant again. After all, they had just had a heated argument a few days ago. If he were to back down so quickly, that girl would only be more uncontroble in the future.


    Wanda patted his shoulder. "I''ve said all I can. Happiness is something you fight for. In my eyes, Kallum, you''ve already missed her once. You shouldn''t miss her a second time."


    After Wanda left, Kallum fell into silence.


    Wanda stated that he had missed his chance with her once, implying that he hadn''t held onto her when she was in love with him.


    However, to Kallum, he realized he had missed her twice.


    She had once loved him with all her life, viewing his affection as the only belief she adhered to. That was why, even in times of loneliness and despair, she chose to stay in Horington. However, his unintentional actions caused her to lose hope. And so, he missed out on her twice.


    With that thought in mind, Kallum suddenly rose to his feet, a sense of urgency washing over him.


    He couldn''t just let her walk away like that. Once she left, the chances of mending their rtionship would be incredibly difficult.


    Therefore, Kallum gritted his teeth and left the study.


    Meanwhile, Calista was rather at peace. Truthfully, there had been countless times before when she had been tempted to be with Kallum. However, each time, for various reasons, she had held herself back.


    Kallum always felt that her mood was unpredictable. In reality, she was simplycking in confidence. She had always felt insecure around him because she had once been humiliated in front of him, a feeling of inferiority that others could never truly understand. Therefore, she appeared to be indecisive.


    However, all that didn''t matter now.


    Ever since the incident at the


    research center, she realized there was no longer any possibility


    between Kallum and her. She was a bit reluctant before, but that night, she suddenly made up her mind.


    Hesitation in making a necessary decision would only lead to more troubles.


    "Are you really leaving?" Kallum appeared at the door, his face grim as he watched her packing her bags.


    "Yes."


    Calista was relentless in her actions. She was the type of person who, once she made a decision, would never waver. Having epted that there was no possibility with Kallum, she believed moving out was the best solution.


    "You''re supposed to administer acupuncture for me every three days. You haven''t forgotten, right?" Kallum''s tone was dry, giving off the impression that he wanted her to stay, yet he was too stubborn to admit it.


    "I remember," Calista said, her tonepletely devoid of emotion.


    Feeling a bit defeated and


    dissatisfied, Kallum remarked, "The


    researchb is right here in Fairchild Manor. What''s the point of you running around every day? This house can easily amodate one more person. I''ll let you move out once your experiment is sessful!"


    Without turning her head, Calista said, "It''s okay. I''m willing to travel."


    Kallum clenched his fists. "Have you ever thought about my mom? She adores you and treats you like her own daughter. Are you just going to up and leave?"


    This time, Calista paused in her actions before responding, "She has already agreed."


    This was simply a case of being stuck with a useless ally to Kallum.


    He was seething with anger. Seeing Calista still packing, he wished he could throw her suitcase out or hide it away.


    "I haven''t told anyone about your miscarriage yet, and here you are, moving out. Are you trying to make everyone think I''m an irresponsible man, huh?"


    Kallum deliberately blocked her way, preventing her from continuing to pack up.


    Calista furrowed her brows. Is it really that difficult for me to want to live alone?


    "I don''t care about the rumors and gossip."


    "I do care!" Kallum instinctively kicked the box away, ring at her. "How would others gossip about my family and the baby? Are you trying to plunge my family into a state of dishonor?"


    Calista raised an eyebrow at him.


    There are so many single, pregnant women in Horington, each with their own reasons. Who would dare to use such a thing to tarnish the


    reputation of the Fairchild familyet


    Are they seeking death? Moreover, if I were to move out at this point, the rumors and gossip would only target me. People might start questioning if the child is not Kallum''s, hence the Fairchild family''s treatment toward me. In principle, the Fairchild family wouldn''t suffer any loss.

 Chapter 360 Is That How You Perceive Me

    However, she didn''t want to argue. In a nonchnt tone, she said, "Here''s your ck card. Consider it aspensation for the damage I''ve caused to the reputation of the Fairchild family." Inexplicably, a ck card had been thrust into his hand, leaving Kallum at his wits'' end.


    He gritted his teeth. "The neighborhood isn''t safe! I heard about a girl who lived alone and was targeted for a robbery!"


    Seeing that Calista remained indifferent, he added threateningly, "She was even brutally murdered!"


    Calista finally crossed her arms and looked at him. "And dismembered too? How odd that such big news was only witnessed by you?"


    Kallum waspletely drained, a fiery agitation surging in his chest. Couldn''t Calista see that he was giving in? Couldn''t she give him an out, a chance to turn the page?


    "Old Mr. Yancey really doesn''t want you to leave!"


    His face turned beet red, and after much effort, he managed to squeeze out these words.


    Calista hauled the suitcase back. "He''s so understanding, so he won''t stop me."


    "The butler hates to see you go too!" Kallum said with a scowl, "And so does Mr. Haught, Quintus, and the rest. They don''t want you to leave! Unlike some people, they actually develop feelings after spending time with others!"


    Calista looked at him, a question arising without reason. "Even the gardener''s dog can''t bear to part with me, right? I remember feeding it."


    "Calista! Are you trying to make me lose my temper?!"


    Whenever Kallum tried to back down, Calista never gave him any room to breathe, pushing him to the point where he could no longer contain his anger. He grabbed her hand, forcing her to look at him.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "So you''re just going to leave? Do you think of Fairchild Manor as a ce you cane and go as you please? And what do you take me for? A ything to be used and discarded at will?"


    Calista looked up at him, a hint of helplessness in her voice. "I don''t seem to recall ever ying with your feelings. Please don''t use me of crimes I didn''tmit. Or have you forgotten? You said you wouldn''t beg me anymore. So, what is this now? Are you speaking on behalf of those who ''can''t bear'' to let me go?"


    Calista remained indifferent, causing Kallum''s anger to reach its boiling point.


    "I''m not begging you!"


    A flicker of sadness shed through his eyes, his irises filled with anger and pain.


    "It has always been like this! One minute, you im to love me, yet the next, you say you don''t love me. Have you ever truly loved? Or have you just been ying me all this time?"


    His words left Calista momentarily stunned, a hint of icy mockery tugging at the corners of her mouth.


    "Aren''t you the same, Mr. Kallum? You were the one who imed not to love me in the beginning, and now it''s still you who wants to love me. Can''t you just stay consistent for once andpletely ignore me from start to finish?" ""D*mn it!"


    Kallum''s temper had suddenly red up. He could no longer keep hisposure, speaking almost recklessly. "If you hadn''t done so much, do you really think I would have fallen for you?"


    No sooner had he spoken than he regretted it. But before he could say anything to remedy the situation, Calista had already begun to scoff coldly.


    "So, you''re saying that my actions


    have touched you? That''s quite unexpected. But it seems like you''ve misunderstood something. The kindness showed you initially was not without motive. I was simply looking to exploit the power you held to effortlessly suppress my enemies. So, saving you was merely a transaction. It was a partnership. There''s really no need for you to be moved by any of my actions."


    When Calista disassociated herself, it truly infuriated Kallum even more. From the way he red at her, it was as if even the air around them had caught fire.


    "So what you''re saying is, aside from using me, you have absolutely no other feelings for me? All this while, it''s been me deluding myself with feelings?"


    "You can see it that way," Calista said with a smirk.


    Her smile made Kallum feel as though something was clutching his heart, causing a suffocating pain. His rationality was consumed by rage, leading him to speak without thinking.


    "You never truly loved me!"


    Calista was taken aback.


    "In the previous life, as per your ount, our paths diverged after you turned eighteen. In other words, there was no connection between us after that age. So, how did you love me for the next decade or so? Was it through memories?"


    He shook his head, a hint of


    self-mockery in his expression. "You


    just feel like you''re stuck in a


    quagmire, already tainted. So, that initial flutter of the heart became your eternal beacon of light and faith! You''ve turned your feelings for me into a nostalgic remembrance of the past and an inability to let go. But once you give up on this final ray of light, you''ll plunge into darkness, transforming into someone else entirely..."


    Suddenly, Calista burst intoughter.


    "For instance, bing like me now?"


    The two were engaged in a heated rivalry, one hot, the other cold. When their gazes met, sparks seemed to fly.


    Calista''s eyes sparkled as she looked at him. "Are you suggesting that my feelings for you are nothing more than a nostalgic longing for my lost innocence, and my decision to let you go is an eptance of reality? So, in your view, I never truly loved you, but merely romanticized my feelings for you? Is that it?"


    Although he was reluctant to ept this analysis, for it questioned her feelings and undoubtedly negated their current rtionship, Kallum couldn''t think straight in his anger and stubbornly stuck to his conclusion.


    "Indeed!"


    Calista narrowed her eyes dangerously, taking a step forward to press closely against his body.


    "So, in your heart, is that how you perceived my feelings?"


    "What else, then?" Kallum''s eyes dimmed, his voice growing colder. "If you loved me, you wouldn''t have left. Not only that, but you also despise me. Even though I''ve done nothing wrong in my life, even though you say you''re not confused, you still hate me. You''re taking your anger out on me, and yet you won''t admit it!"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 361 Exhausting Conversation

    His voice was filled with bitterness, yet he spoke firmly.


    "You''re using my feelings for you to punish me. Love would never allow you to do such a thing..."


    The expression on Calista''s face turned cold.


    "I''ve tried so many times, yet you always snap out of it at the final moment, Calista. This isn''t how love is shown. You''ve been fooling yourself into thinking that you love me, and I, I was naive enough to believe that you loved me..."


    Upon saying this, Kallum gave a derisive shake of his head, released her, and seemed ready to leave.


    Calista''s eyes narrowed slightly before she suddenly wrapped her arms around his neck, nting a passionate kiss on his lips.


    Caught in Kallum''s surprised gaze, Calista''s eyes gradually sharpened. Her voice was hoarse; each word she uttered was filled with force.


    "If I didn''t love you... I wouldn''t have been so utterly hopeless!"


    She seemed unsatisfied, pushing forward, pinning Kallum against the wall. Her hands gripped his cor, forcing him to lower his gaze to meet hers.


    "If I didn''t love you, I should have destroyed you!" Her tone suddenly turned ominously terrifying. "You''re right! I''m not as righteous as I im to be. So what if those who have wronged me have never made mistakes in their lives? If they''ve hurt me, they deserve to die! They deserve to go to hell! So what if I use your feelings to punish you? This is already the lightest punishment!"


    "Then I''d rather you be a bit more ruthless!"


    In the midst of Calista''s icy counterattack, Kallum had also gone somewhat mad.


    "At least I wouldn''t be so helpless toward you. Does that make you happy? I''m powerless when ites to you, so I''d rather you be harsher toward me, to make me give up hope!"


    "It''s not toote now..."


    After releasing his cor, Calista took a step back.


    "We can still be enemies now, if that''s what you want."


    Kallum remained silent. Amidst the silence, Calista suddenly let out a softugh.


    "If you don''t want us to be enemies, can I leave now?"


    This single sentence felt like a thorn, ruthlessly piercing into Kallum''s chest. He stared in disbelief, his eyes widened, and then he suddenly burst intoughter, his eyes turning red as he spoke. "Leave..."


    He pointed at the door. "Get out!"


    Facing his roar, Calista remained silent. She didn''t grab her belongings and simply left.


    As soon as she left, Kallum punched the wall in frustration. Yet, the heartache he felt did not subside. Instead, it became even more unbearable.


    What was he doing? He had clearly decided not to argue when he came over... It wasn''t difficult to swallow his pride, especially when it was her. He still wanted to marry her. Even if he didn''t bring up the marriage now, it would be fine to return to their previous way of interacting.


    But now, their rtionship had cooled to freezing point, and every step they took became incredibly difficult.


    For several days in a row, the two were engaged in a silent standoff. The entire Fairchild Manor was steeped in a gloomy atmosphere, with no one daring to hit a nerve.


    It seemed as though Calista was intentionally avoiding Kallum, spending consecutive days immersed in theb. Even their meal times were deliberately staggered.


    This caused Kallum to perpetually radiate an icy demeanor, no matter where he was, which left people feeling deeply unnerved.


    However, they were headed to the same ce that day, to the Ingram family''s engagement party.


    This made Kallum a bit nervous, as he was eager to seize this opportunity to smooth things over.


    As soon as Calista got into the car, she closed her eyes out of exhaustion, not even giving Kallum a chance to speak.


    After reflecting on the events of the


    §Ö§ä


    past few days, he couldn''t help but feel regret. He was well aware of what Calista''s feelings for him had meant in the past. Yet, in a fit of anger, he had used this to question her He must have been out of his mind.


    However, he pondered, it was quite normal for couples to quarrel. Perhaps all they needed was an opportunity to break the ice.


    Kallum casually nced at Calista''s face, only to notice faint dark circles under her eyes. Quintus mentioned that she hadn''t been sleeping well for several days now, all in an effort to keep up with the schedule.


    In reality, it wasn''t just her who was affected. Kallum simply couldn''t sleep. Whenever he thought of her, the nights seemed to stretch into an endless torment. However, his stubborn nature prevented him from showing any signs of it.


    Halfway through the drive, Calista


    seemed to be in a trance, remaining


    perfectly still. Kallum wanted to


    strike up a conversation several


    times but didn''t know how to start.


    After struggling for a while, he finally spoke with a stern expression.


    "Did I hear right that the medicine was sessful and that it''s now in the experimental stage?"


    The previous day, Shaun had approached him with a face full of joy to share some good news, but Kallum couldn''t muster even a hint of happiness. This was because he wanted to celebrate this wonderful news with Calista, but she was nowhere to be found.


    Calista only half-opened her eyes before quickly closing them again. "Yes."


    How was he supposed to respond to that?


    Kallum''s anger was ring up again. Ever since the fallout between the two, Kallum''s temper had worsened considerably. Now, even Wanda dared not say a word, fearing she might set him off.


    However, considering how hard Calista had been working these past few days, could it be that she was just too exhausted to speak?


    In his mind, he had made up an excuse for her, then Kallum spoke again.


    "Once we get to the Ingram residence, stick with me and don''t wander off," he said.


    After speaking, he felt that his tone might have been too cold, so he attempted to exin in a more moderate manner.


    "The Ingram family isn''t the same as the Wolford family. They have their own trained people. If you''re taken away, don''t expect me to save you!"


    This time, Calista didn''t even open her eyes.


    "Mhm."


    This very conversation was absolutely exhausting to Kallum.


    His breath quickened several times over, and his hand clenched in an attempt to suppress his anger. But he couldn''t hold it back. Even he hadn''t anticipated the profound impact Calista''s indifference would have on him.

 Chapter 362 A Peaceful Moment

    "Did you even listen to what I was saying?"


    Kallum reached out, gently turning her face toward him. At that moment, Calista finally fully opened her eyes.


    Calista wasn''t wrong about one thing. Her eyes were indeed beautiful. He had praised them countless times before. Whenever she focused her gaze on someone, it was bound to make their heart skip a beat. That was why his next words got stuck in his throat. It had been a long time since she had looked at him with such focus.


    "I... was talking to you!"


    Despite the evident passion in his words, there was an inexplicable softening in Kallum''s voice. His hand, which was touching her face, did not withdraw. Instead, he traced her features tenderly as if reluctant to let go. ""I''m really tired."


    Calista''s voice was soft. "Unless it''s something important, please refrain from speaking."


    Kallum''s actions paused, his expression turning somber.


    "Then tell me... What really matters?"


    "For instance, less idle chatter would be appreciated."


    Kallum''s gaze suddenly ignited with fire. "Calista! Do you really think..."


    Before he could finish his sentence, Calista had already moved downwards, resting on hisp. "Let me sleep a bit more."


    Her sudden closeness caught Kallum off guard, leaving him secretly delighted. That tiny spark of hope was instantly extinguished.


    Due to the rapid change, his expression seemed a bit silly, but he dared not move from his position, fearing that Calista might be ufortable in her sleep. He then sat up and closed his eyes to rest. His hand... finally came to rest gently on her shoulder.


    The palpable tension filled the entire carriage, so intense that one could hear a pin drop.


    Even though they were still in a cold war with each other, Calista''s intimacy softened Kallum''s heart. His tightly pursed lips couldn''t help but curve up slightly.


    Fine, I''ll just give her a bit more time to cool down.


    Shortly after, five ck cars pulled into the Ingram residence, which by then was already brightly lit.


    "Do you know how Quincy managed to connect with Horatio while she was in jail?"


    In front of the grand entrance, Kallum spoke up once again. His tone was noticeably more cheery. Calista nced at him. "Do tell."


    "Quincy is pregnant!"


    Calista was taken aback.


    "Horatio was quite the dominant figure even in prison. Once he had everything arranged, his time in jail was almost like a vacation, which is why he had the chance to meet her." Kallum softly rified things for Calista.


    "Well, that turned out to be a blessing in disguise," Calista said, shaking her head as she looped her arm through Kallum''s.


    At present, they had only postponed their wedding to the public. Her "child" was still in the picture, so she and Kallum were still together.


    Once again, he was enveloped by her faint, cool fragrance. It was at that moment that Kallum''s demeanor suddenly softened.


    "Calista."


    "Hmm?"


    Kallum nervously pressed his lips together.


    "Can we... make amends?"


    When Calista looked up, she saw Kallum''s eyes darting away due to his nervousness. Once he spoke, it became much easier to carry on the conversation.


    "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to question you that day. I know you once... loved me very much."


    He wore a smile tinged with bitterness, standing at the entrance of the magnificent golden gate. Setting aside his dignity and restraint, he looked at her with a sense of relief.


    "I''m not forcing you to return to any certain point, but at the very least, could you please not ignore me?"


    These past couple of days, he felt like he was almost suffocating.


    Before Calista could utter a word, an ted voice rang out. "The presence of Mr. Kallum truly graces our gathering!"


    Sixty-year-old Horatio strode in, looking as youthful as a forty-year-old. When he saw Calista, a subtle glint shed in his eyes.


    As Calista faced her nemesis, her demeanor changed instantly. Kallum responded in kind, "Since Mr. Ingram has invited me, how could I possibly refuse?"


    "Thank you so much for gracing us with your presence. Please,e inside!"


    "This way."


    Kallum led Calista into the room.


    As soon as they entered, they instantly became the center of attention. Thebination of a handsome man and a beautiful woman was always a pleasing sight to the eyes. However, what really sparked people''s curiosity was the nature of their rtionship.


    "Do you think it''s true that the girl named Calista is really pregnant? If she is, why would they dy the wedding?"


    Someone sneered, "Perhaps the child''s father is someone else?"


    Otherwise, how would one exin the sudden decision to postpone the wedding on the eve of the ceremony?


    In the momentary absence of Kallum, Calista found her path blocked by Jarrett.


    "It''s been a while, hasn''t it?" Jarrett, with sses perched on his nose and dressed in a beige suit, looked every bit the sessful businessman. Yet, behind those lenses, there was a hint of mischief. "I haven''t thanked you for what happenedst time."


    Calista understood clearly. Jarrett


    Ret


    had been missing for quite some time, and it was certain that he had used the people left behind by Sterling, as well as the downfall the Wolford family, to seize the market swiftly. The Sinir family and the Wolford family had always beenpetitors. Judging from Jarrett''s radiant and cheerful appearance, he must have been


    quite pleased with himself recently.


    "No need for thanks. I haven''t forgotten the agreement between us. Helping you is like helping myself," Calista said with a smile.


    "So, is this agreementing into


    effect now?" Jarrett nced at


    Kallum, who was not far away, being stopped by Horatio. Heughed and said, "You''re pregnant, yet the wedding is canceled. What''s this? Has Kallum finally changed his heart? Then are you going to take my route of retreat?"

 Chapter 363 Cunning Games

    Calista slightly raised an eyebrow. "No rush. I still have some things left unfinished."


    Jarrett wore a look of disappointment, half-jokingly leaning in closer. He whispered into her ear, "Actually, I don''t care if the child in your belly is mine or not. Won''t you consider me, especially after Kallum called off the wedding?" "What are you talking about?"


    Without anyone noticing, Kallum had suddenly walked over. He wore a smile on his lips, but his whole demeanor radiated an intense chill. It was as if he was ready to drive out intruders from his territory. Kallum''s hostility made everyone around feel ufortable. Jarrett took a step back, expressing a hint of regret. "Look at this. It''s been so long, and we don''t even have time to catch up."


    Kallum would never forget Jarrett''s subtle ambition toward Calista. His guard was up, at an all-time high. Without a hint of emotion, he stepped between the two. His tall figurepletely shielded Calista as he scoffed coldly.


    "It''s not that I don''t want to, but Callie has been having a tough timetely. I''m sure you''re aware that carrying a first baby is always like this."


    Jarrett''s expression finally took a turn for the worse. He let out an ambiguousugh. "If that''s the case, I won''t overstay my wee."


    He nced toward Calista, a sh of light behind his sses. "Take care of yourself. In crucial moments, don''t forget our agreement." Calista nodded, watching him as he left.


    Kallum hadn''t expected that Calista actually had an agreement with Jarrett.


    He couldn''t help but burn with jealousy, especially when Calista ignored him and engaged in an animated conversation with another man. He was seething with resentment.


    "What did you agree upon with him?"


    Kallum red at her with a warning look, his words seething through clenched teeth. "Don''t forget. You''re still my woman!" And, of course, she would always be. "So, you better not harbor any unnecessary thoughts." She shouldn''t even think about other men. Calista felt somewhat helpless as she moved closer to him. From an outsider''s perspective, it looked as if they were in an embrace.


    "Mr. Kallum, I''m pregnant now. Who would be interested in me? You''re being too sensitive."


    Her soft lips inadvertently brushed against Kallum''s sensitive spot, causing his ears to flush red instantly and his breathing to hasten slightly.


    In the past, he and Calista were close whenever they wanted to be. But recently, their cold war hadsted so long, he hadn''t... With that thought, Kallum felt his heart suddenly re with warmth, and his gaze on Calista became fervent.


    And at that moment, an unexpected turn of events urred.


    Suddenly, a woman crawled out from under the long table. She was holding a wine bottle in her hand and was screaming at Calista.


    "B*tch! Go to hell!"


    No one had anticipated this situation. She had attacked Calista, who was standing in front of Kallum. When Quintus, who was behind Kallum, wanted to intervene, it was already toote.


    A hefty wine bottle came swinging down fiercely! Calista instinctively tried to dodge, but it was toote. At that moment, Kallum swiftly turned around to see her in his arms, the wine bottle brutally smashed into the back of his head. With that, the entire banquet was thrown into chaos.


    Kallum''s injured?


    When the woman was pulled away, she was still hurling shrill curses like a madwoman.


    "Go to hell! Go to hell! Calista! Just Go to hell!"


    Calista hadn''t expected such a spectacle to unfold in front of therge crowd, and the crazed woman at the center of it all was none other than the star of the day, Quincy.


    "What the hell is happening?"


    Kallum''s face darkened, causing everyone around to be filled with terror. Horatio, looking utterly bewildered, rushed over. "Mr. Kallum, are you... are you all right? I have no idea what''s going on. After Quincy became pregnant, she suddenly went mad! I was afraid she might hurt people so I locked her up, but I didn''t expect her to actually escape..."


    Kallum scoffed. Only a fool will believe such words!


    Calista snapped back to reality from the sudden ident. As she noticed a speck of blood on the shattered ss on the ground, her pupils abruptly constricted in shock.


    Oh no!


    Kallum also realized the issue at hand. Quintus quickly led his men to separate the crowd, and with a cold voice, he said, "We demand an exnation for today''s incident on behalf of Mr. Kallum. If not, it would seem as if you had this nned all along!" Kallum''s face fell. "Enough. Let''s go!"


    It was considered a major faux pas


    to leave a banquet hosted by a reputable family on bad terms. However, the Fairchild family''s reaction could be deemed


    reasonable. After all, they were


    inexplicably assaulted, and the


    perpetrator was a lunatic, no less. It was feared that this incident might strain the rtionship between the two families in the future. All things considered, the Ingram family had truly been caught in an undeserved disaster.


    Only those privy to the inside story knew that there was more than meets the eye.


    "Mr. Kallum..." Horatio expressed with deep regret, hastily trying to keep him from leaving. "All this is my uncle''s fault. How about this? Please stay. Let me have someone attend to your wounds first?"


    His demands were reasonable and


    seemed sincere. In the presence of


    so many individuals with unique


    statuses, if Kallum insisted on


    causing a scene, it would only raise suspicions. After all, his injuries were not severe; he had only bled a little. However, Horatio was a senior who had been on good terms with the Fairchilds since Kallum''s grandfather''s time.


    Kallum was stopped in his tracks, a sh of defiance briefly crossing his eyes.


    "Mr. Ingram, I respect the bond you had with my grandpa, hence my respect toward you. But don''t mistake that as an invitation to y your cunning games in front of me, all right?"


    He positioned Calista behind him,


    pointing in the direction where


    Quincy was dragged away. "If my memory serves me right, you invited everyone to the engagement party of Quiney and Horatio. But since arrived, all I''ve seen is a lunatic! Since when did the Ingram family be a charity house, even


    epting a madwoman as a


    daughter-inw? If I''m not mistaken, you already have two grandsons!"

 Chapter 364 Hand Them Over

    "I don''t care what tricks you''re ying, but since you''ve decided to involve me, you should pay the price! From now on, it would be best if our families ceased contact."


    Kallum''s words had left Horatio looking rather displeased. Many people had started to sense a different undercurrent. Yes, why had the Ingram family arranged an engagement for their precious son with a lunatic? The banquet that day seemed to have been nned with ulterior motives.


    At this moment, Horatio was surprised that Kallum remainedpletely unruffled. If Harvey were to die, it wouldn''t be unjust at all.


    Seeing Kallum determined to confront him, he pleaded anxiously, "Mr. Kallum, please don''t misunderstand. I didn''t mean it like that..."


    At that moment, a flustered butler rushed over, eximing loudly, "Something terrible has happened, Mr. Ingram! Earlier, when we tried to stop Ms. Quincy, she identally cut someone''s arm with the wine bottle she was wielding at Mr. Kallum. Now, that person has developed a fever!"


    How could this be? Calista was sure of it. The half bottle of wine that Quincy had taken away didn''t contain any of Kallum''s blood. In other words, Horatio had indeede for Kallum today.


    But why? Their families had a close rtionship. The Ingram family had only reached their current status due to the support of the Fairchild family. Why would he do such a thing?


    Many people, unaware of the real situation, subconsciously took a step back from Kallum after finding out the truth.


    Wait a minute. Wasn''t the matter of Kallum falling ill already rified? How did something like this still happen?


    Kallum couldn''t figure it out. What was Horatio''s motive? Wasn''t his actions akin to shooting himself in the foot?


    In the presence of so many people, Horatio didn''t even bother to put on a pretense. Instead, he scolded with a feigned innocence, "What on earth are you talking about?"


    Suddenly, he pulled out a testing device from his pocket. Pointing at the bloodstain on the ground, he said, "Look, this is Mr. Kallum''s blood right here on the ground. I''ll test it for you right now!"


    No sooner had he stepped forward than Kallum had grabbed him by the cor.


    "Horatio, what are you implying?"


    Kallum lowered his voice, his tone grim. "What are you scheming? What do you want from me?"


    After being pulled up, Horatio stopped those who wanted to rush forward to save him, lowering his voice as he spoke with a smile.


    "Mr. Kallum, you seem quite agitated. I''m merely trying to dispel everyone''s doubts. After all, those who are here today are all friends and honored guests. But you''re obstructing me, Mr. Kallum. Is there something secretive you wouldn''t want to share?" "State your intentions," Kallum said.


    "You enjoy ying games, but I don''t have time for your riddles."


    Everyone exchanged nces, unsure of what they were up to. What was once a pleasant banquet had now turned into aplete mess, leaving a sense of unease among the crowd.


    At this critical moment, Horatio suddenly dropped a bombshell.


    "Truthfully, I didn''t want this either, Mr. Kallum. Do you know? I''ve been diagnosed with cancer!"


    Horatio''s words took Kallum aback, causing him to furrow his brows immediately.


    The tension in Horatio''s body began to ease, his voice growing softer. "There''s something wrong with my heart. I could die at any moment if I don''t find a suitable heart. But my genes are unique. I don''t know when I''ll be able to find one. Maybe one day, I''ll fall asleep and never wake up. All the hard-earned sess I''ve achieved, I might have to hand it over for others to enjoy. So, over the past year, while I was searching for the source of the heart, I kept my eyes on you. I watched the Wolford and Murray families frantically scramble, and I noticed the extraordinary aspects of your Fairchild family. I was the one who sent your distant cousin to collect your blood sample and secretly released the researcher, Wayne. Therefore, I can confirm! You are definitely the infected one!"


    His voice was barely a whisper, yet his eyes shone brightly. That was because, to him, seeing Kallum was akin to seeing a beacon of hope in life.


    Kallum stepped back, but he was


    caught by the hand. "You, a K Virus


    carrier, a man destined to live no more than a month, have survived until now. So, the one who has kept you alive must also be able to keep me alive!"


    Horatio looked somewhat frenzied as he spoke rapidly. "I bet prolonging life must harm that person''s health. Otherwise, they would have been famous long ago. They must also be someone very important to you. If not, you wouldn''t keep it so hidden. I had no choice but to resort to such a scheme! As long as you hand them over, I can assure everyone that what just happened was merely a misunderstanding. Otherwise, you''ll die with me! I''m curious to see, under the watchful eyes of the


    public, how you intend to stop me. Speak! Who is that person?"


    "Heh..."


    Kallum''s gaze gradually turned icy.


    "If you want to know, then go ask the Grim Reaper!"


    After he finished speaking, he suddenly threw a fierce punch and knocked Horatio to the ground.


    "Dad!"


    "Mr. Ingram!"


    A crowd had gathered around, yet, without losing a moment, Kallum had seized Calista''s hand.


    "Let''s go!"


    Calista was pulled forward by him as they ran.


    "Stop them!"


    The negotiations had fallen apart. Knowing full well that his future was uncertain, would Horatio really allow Kallum to walk away unscathed?


    Suddenly, over twenty individuals appeared, blocking their path. It seemed they were the trained fighters from the Ingram family. Suddenly, the argument escted to physical confrontation, causing the mood of those present to sour considerably. "What on earth is going on?"

 Chapter 365 The Injection

    The guests were all in a state of panic while some of the more influential individuals confronted Horatio.


    "We came here to attend an engagement party, but we neither saw the couple nor heard any announcement of the happy news. Mr. Ingram, what on earth are you trying to do?"


    Someone helped Horatio to his feet, a wild glint shing in thetter''s eyes. As he ignored everyone else, his gaze was locked solely on Kallum.


    "Mr. Kallum, you''re really not going to agree to my request?"


    He held a detection pen in his hand. "Strictly speaking, this matter hasn''t harmed you, has it? What''s stopping you from sharing the benefits? Is it that your lives and Calista''s are more valuable than mine? We can negotiate the benefits. You can have whatever you want!" Kallum tightened his grip on Calista''s hand. "I have no clue what you''re talking about. You''ve gone mad!"


    He had it all figured out. Callie''s experiment had reached its final stage. If discovered now, at most, he would be confined to the quarantine area for a while.


    Despite the potential for significant bacsh, his love for her was so profound that he would never let any harme to her, not even a single hair on her head, due to external factors.


    Upon seeing Kallum choosing to do it the hard way, Horatio let out a coldugh. He made his way toward the pile of shattered ss, his gaze fixed on Kallum.


    "Well, don''t me me for not considering our past rtionship!"


    His actions were swift, unlike the fools like Harvey, who made a mess of things and ended up gaining nothing. He knew that to deal with Kallum, he needed to catch him off guard. If Kallum was willing to cooperate, that would be ideal. However, if he refused, he wouldn''t hesitate to escte the matter, forcing that person to reveal themselves.


    With everyone present watching, Horatio''s detection pen emitted a blinding red light the moment it touched Kallum''s blood.


    There was someone present who happened to be from Horington Disease Control Center, and they were utterly shocked by what they saw.


    ""Mr. Kallum, you..."


    "That''s right!" Horatio stood up straight. "As you all witnessed, Mr. Kallum was indeed infected with the K Virus, yet he managed to deceive us all!"


    With a pained expression, he said, "I never expected the results to turn out this way. The Fairchild family really had us fooled!"


    With just one sentence, the entire room was in an uproar.


    The past yed out scene by scene, from the downfall of the Wolford family to the gloomy end of the Murray family. Everyone believed that Kallum was unscathed, that i was all a misunderstanding. But then, an unexpected attack by Horatio shattered the lies of the Fairchild family. Could the truth really be like this?


    Francis Wilkins from the Disease Control Center furrowed his brows, stepping forward to say, "Mr. Kallum, your condition is quite risky. Please cooperate with us and undergo another examination."


    After he finished speaking, the person behind him took out a portable blood testing device they had with them and walked toward Kallum.


    At this moment, Kallum resolutely ced Calista''s hand into Quintus''. "Take good care of her."


    He turned his gaze toward Calista again. "I believe you''ll find sess soon, so don''t worry about me. Just take care of yourself."


    Calista swiftly grabbed his hand, lowering her voice to ask, "Horatio''s target is me, isn''t it? He wants me to prolong his life, right?"


    Kallum''s eyes slightly widened, then his brows furrowed. "No one should speak of this matter. Regardless of their actions, I will be fine. You mustn''t expose yourself at all costs."


    "If you were taken away, even if nothing happened to you, everything we''ve done before would be exposed as a deception. The Fairchild family wouldn''t be able to exin it to the rest of the country!" "You don''t need to worry about this!" Kallum withdrew his hand. "Just focus on what you need to do."


    "Even if you do this, Kallum, I won''t acknowledge your kindness." Calista ath


    stared at him. "You might as well hand me over. With Old Mr. Yancey around, my presence or absence at this stage doesn''t matter..


    Suddenly, Kallum covered her mouth, his gaze burning into hers.


    Just when Calista thought he would retort or lecture her, his piercing gaze suddenly softened.


    "Who can me me for falling for you?"


    Calista looked at him, inexplicably forgetting to breathe.


    At that moment, Francis had already approached Kallum. Just as Kallum was about to say something, Calista suddenly copsed, falling into Kallum''s arms, who quickly held onto her. "Why..."


    His voice faltered, for something sharp had pierced his spine from behind, beneath his suit. Had Calista injected something into his back?


    "Mr. Kallum, considering your health condition, would you cooperate with us for another examination?"


    Before Kallum could respond, Calista slowly rose from his embrace.


    "Getting checked out is fine, right? After all, we''ve been through this kind of baseless chatter several times before, haven''t we?"


    Calista''s words subtly changed the expression on Horatio''s face. Could it be that Kallum still had an ace up his sleeve?


    Everyone looked perplexed. When Kallum''s blood was publicly tested and showed issues, Francis'' re-examination seemed to be just a formality. But could there possibly be a different oue?


    Francis was soaked in sweat. He


    just realized that Horatio''s invitation to him, a m¨¨re official from the Disease Control Center, was premeditated. However, he was now in a situation where he couldn''t back down, and cooperating with Kallum was his best option.


    Upon hearing Calista''s words, he quickly took out his blood testing device. It was something they always carried with them, one of the most urate instruments for blood tests. Just as Kallum was about to reach out his hand, Calista spoke up again.


    "But I feel it''s utterly outrageous. For


    an entirely baseless matter, there are those with ill intentions who


    provoke again and again. Not only once or twice, but they persisted,


    repeatedly causing trouv

 Chapter 366 Normal Blood

    Her eyes, bright as stars, suddenly turned to Horatio. "If Kallum is unharmed, what kind of price would you have to pay?"


    Horatio, it could be said, was even more certain about Kallum''s situation than Harvey was. Moreover, considering he had alreadye this far for his own life, he had naturally thought about the consequences of falling out with the Fairchild family. "Anything you want. It''s only fair. After all, I''ve made such a big blunder unintentionally. I feel extremely guilty," he said with a smirk.


    "Would you give your life if I asked for it?" Calista asked, seemingly in jest. Yet, everyone around them could sense the underlying tension, as if swords were drawn and ready for battle.


    Kallum was wracked with waves of intense pain, the kind that could drive a person to madness. Yet he couldn''t give in. All he could do was tightly grip Calista''s hand. While Calista was buying time and talking to others, she alsoforted him by squeezing his hand back. Their fingers interlocked as if nothing could tear them apart.


    "What an audacious girl!" Horatio''s gaze fell unexpectedly onto Calista. Over the past year, he found her the most troublesome, primarily because she was too mysterious and exceedingly devoted to Kallum.


    "Stop trying to stall for time. If Mr. Kallum is unharmed, I''d be the happiest one around. What does it matter if I owe him my life?"


    Calista chuckled lightly. "All right. I don''t want anything else. I just want Sky Beacon Hospital that''s under your name. As long as you agree, we can proceed with the blood test immediately, no dys!"


    Kallum''s grip on Calista''s hand gradually loosened as if the excruciating pain had somewhat subsided. In just a short while, his cold sweat had soaked through his shirt. The double vision he was experiencing also started to fade away.


    "Why do you want Sky Beacon Hospital?" That was thergest hospital under his name. It should be unknown to others that he was using the hospital to find a source for a heart.


    However, Calista knew.


    In her previous life, Horatio managed to survive for several more years due to a millennium-long stroke of misfortune, which surprisingly led him to Sky Beacon Hospital, where he found a suitable heart.


    As a result, the patient who merely had a cold ended up "sick" to death. The family received the money, and he got a chance to save his life.


    So Calista was now aiming to secure Sky Beacon Hospital first. Perhaps this way, she could indirectly lead to Horatio''s demise.


    "You simply have to choose whether to agree or disagree."


    Calista''s words made Horatio frown, but he thought that even without the advantage of fate, he had other means, other channels. Moreover, he knew Kallum''s situation like the back of his hand. There was absolutely no chance for Kallum to turn things around. This time, he was determined to tarnish the reputation of the Fairchild family and force them to hand over that person.


    With these thoughts, a glint of resolve shed in his eyes. He spoke up. "Fine, you can have it your way. Now, let''s proceed with the blood test!"


    Only then did Calista lift her head to look at Kallum, who, in that instant, opened his eyes.


    His violet eyes were clear and bright. At first nce, it seemed like nothing special, but Calista could sense the hidden joy within him. "Do you still feel difort?"


    Kallum shook his head, then suddenly lowered it to nt a kiss on her forehead.


    "Do you know?"


    While Calista was lost in thought, and everyone else was on edge, watching them intently, Kallum surprisingly let out a softugh. "Meeting you is my biggest blessings in both my lifetimes."


    At that moment, the Disease Control Center personnel, somewhat nervously, interrupted them, "Mr. Kallum... may I take a blood sample from you?" Calista and Kallum exchanged nces. Slowly, Kallum extended his hand. "Why not?"


    The phlebotomist breathed a sigh of relief. Previously, there had been issues detected in Kallum''s blood, so he had been particrly caf¨¨ful when drawing his blood, afraid of causing harm to himself.


    What was initially a matter devoid of any suspense took an unexpected turn due to Calista''s words. Suddenly, everything seemed strange, and everyone''s eyes were glued to the scene, their certainty about the oue wavering.


    This was especially the case for Horatio. Even Kallum had already tacitly agreed, which proved his conjecture was correct. But what did Calista mean? Could there be another n in ce?


    Not only them, but at that moment,


    Calista and Kaltum were also


    extremely tense. Although Calista carried a serum vial, the experiment was not yetpleted. She was uncertain whether the serum would work. Everything was a gamble, but they had faith in themselves and believed that their long-term efforts had not been in vain.


    Drops of blood delicately fell onto the te. The staff member smeared the blood across the entire ss slide and then pressed the switch.


    A streak of electronic red light shed by, revealing all the various values of the blood test. The staff member nced at the results, and his eyes widened in surprise. "How''s it?"


    Francis anxiously asked from the side, and the person showed him the numbers. After seeing them, he, too, wore an oddly perplexed expression. "What''s the situation?"


    "I don''t know..."


    The chatter was incessant, then Horatio suddenly wore a stern expression. "What''s going on?"


    Francis swallowed, speaking in a hushed tone.


    "Mr. Kallum''s blood... is normal..."


    "Impossible!" Horatio suddenly rushed over to check the readings on the device, but the final verdict of "normal" greatly unsettled him. "How could this be? How could this be?"


    He was murmuring to himself, continuously repeating the same phrase.


    Feeling rxed, Kallum did not retract his hand. "Who else wishes to challenge?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 367 Research Was Successful

    He looked around. "Today, I''ll indulge you all. Anyone who wants to check can do so. I''ve had enough of blood tests, so you might as well get it all done at once!" How could the instruments from the Disease Control Center make mistakes?


    Hence, the public thought the only exnation was that there was something wrong with Horatio''s device.


    With a smile, Calista said, "I suspect there''s indeed something peculiar about the blood on the ground. Whether it belonged to Kallum, or if it was already in the bottle, is a question for Mr. Ingram. Your Ingram family started with a sneak attack, followed by coercion. What exactly are you trying to achieve? I''mpletely baffled."


    Initially, Horatio was still in a state of shock, but at her words, he suddenly turned to look at her.


    "It''s you! You must be up to no good! What did you do? What did you just do?"


    Calistaughed lightly. "You''re giving me too much credit. I''m just a young woman, not even twenty. What could I possibly do? Or perhaps, you''ve grown so old that you can''t handle failure, or worse, you''ve aged to the point of losing your sense of right and wrong, resulting in this farce?"


    ""You! You!"


    "I''m advising you here, as you grow older, don''t be too serious or stubborn. How can one possibly fight against fate? If fate decides it''s your time to die, you can''t resist it. If you''re too demanding, aren''t you afraid of inviting an unpleasant end?"


    When Horatio heard her words, his face flushed a deep red. As he clutched his chest, it seemed as if he was on the verge of falling ill.


    His eldest son quickly helped Horatio to his feet, a look of disagreement surfacing on his honest face.


    "Ms. Stafford, how could you curse my father?"


    "Curse? He just cursed my fianc¨¦ with a terminal illness! He allows himself to do wrong but forbids others from doing even the smallest things. I''d rather not associate with such a person! What do you think, dear?"


    Kallum''s lips were still somewhat pale, yet he seemed unusually spirited. He couldn''t help but smile. "You''re right. It''s better off not to associate with such people."


    After he finished speaking, he firmly led Calista away by the hand. As they were leaving, Calista turned back and said, "Mr. Ingram, don''t forget about Sky Beacon Hospital. It''s mine now!"


    At this point, Horatio waspletely knocked out. The scene was in utter chaos, with Calista emerging as the clear victor.


    After stepping out, Kallum began to falter, his entire body leaning heavily on Calista. Beads of sweat suddenly broke out on his forehead.


    "How are you doing?"


    "I''m okay." Kallum supported her. "Let''s talk more when we get home!"


    Calista saw him off to the car, then hurriedly drove back. Shaun thought it was quite strange as when Kallum left, he was perfectly fine, but upon his return, he had fallen unconscious. All the while, Calista calmly said, "I''ve administered Experiment No. 3''s injection to him." "What? That hasn''t passed the inspection yet!"


    Calista, weary, rubbed her temples. "I


    understand, but today''s


    circumstances are unusual... In any case, once Kallum wakes up, let him handle this matter. For now, you all shouldinvestigate what exactly is wrong with his body. After all, the blood tests have alreadye back normal, so logically, this shouldn''t be happening."


    Inside Fairchild Manor''sboratory, a group of people began to hustle and bustle. However, the final oue was surprisingly good.


    "At first nce, it seemed like a mere side effect of the antiserum, perhaps a slight issue with the dosage. However, there are no signs of repeated urrences. In other words, our antiserum research was a sess!"


    By the time Shaun finished speaking, he was surprisingly rather pleased with himself.


    In a year and a half, they had performed what could only be described as a miracle! Who would believe it if they were told?


    Calista silently let out a sigh of relief.


    "How long will the side effectsst?"


    "I''m not certain. After all, this is the


    first case, and there''s no data avable for reference. I presume that while it might be ufortable, it shouldn''t be worse than the difort caused by the illness. However, for safety''s sake, it would be best if you waited a month before getting the injection. After all, we''re still unaware of any potential consequences."


    Calista nodded. "I''m not in a rush, and I''m already used to the pain. Let''s not worry about anything else for now, just focus on speeding up the follow-up experiments from our original n. Using Kallum''s clinical performance as a reference, let''s aim toplete all the research within a month." As she spoke, Calista looked through the ss at Kallum lying on the hospital bed. A faint smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. "The K Virus... well, it''s not all it''s cracked up to be."


    Her words made Shaun burst intoughter. But remembering that Kallum was still resting, he quickly covered his mouth, though his eyes were filled with amusement.


    "Absolutely. Ms. Calista, you''re right," he agreed, "It''s just the K Virus, nothing more than that!"


    Relieved, Calista said, "I''m going to rest now. As soon as Kallum wakes up, let me know immediately."


    "All right." Shaun nodded, then suddenly asked with a hint of hesitation, "Though I shouldn''t ask, but... Have you and Mr. Kallum not reconciled yet?"


    Calista slightly raised an eyebrow. "We won''t get back together. Being his sister feels morefortable than being his woman."


    Shaun couldn''t help but sigh. "Ms. Stafford, why go to such lengths? I thought you and Mr. Kallum were quite a good match. Why do you have to do this?"


    Calista chuckled lightly, her long eyshes casting shadows as they were lowered.


    ¡°Of course, I have my own ns," she said, shaking her head again. "Besides, when Kallum used to orbit around me, it might have been simply because I was the only woman he could get close


    to. N?


    that he''s better, there are so many women in the world for him to


    choose from. He might not even


    remember someone like me."


    "Ms. Stafford..."


    "All right. I''m really tired. See youter."


    Calista waved her hand dismissively, then turned and walked away.


    Since Calista needed to monitor Kallum''s condition, she chose to stay in theboratory and sleep on the bed she used to frequent.

 Chapter 368 Will You Stay With Me

    As she thought back on the experiment, she realized there hadn''t been any major issues, and it had proceeded rather smoothly. The thought of Horatio being exasperated by her brought a slight smirk to Calista''s face. d in her clothes, she drifted off into dreand. When Kallum woke up, he was overwhelmed with a feeling of soreness throughout his body.


    He sat up, and the first words out of his mouth were, "Where''s Callie?"


    Shaun promptly replied, "She''s in the next room. I''ll go and get her right away."


    ""Next room?"


    Kallum ceased his action of massaging his head. "It''s fine. No need to call her. Let her rest a bit more."


    However, he couldn''t afford to rest. The Ingram family had suddenly pulled such a stunt, and they had been secretly observing him for a year. They might even be holding some unknown evidence in their hands. He had to deal with them first and foremost. The thought of Horatio actually setting his sights on Calista made Kallum seethe with anger. He asked coldly, "How is my health now? Have I fully recovered?"


    "No, Mr. Kallum. You still need to cooperate with the examination. You might feel unwell for a considerable period, a side effect of the antiserum. Aside from the pain, we haven''t found any other side effects for now. The blood test shows that the K Virus has been eliminated."


    Upon saying this, Shaun couldn''t help but congratte him, "Mr. Kallum, wee back to the realm of good health!"


    Kallum was sure of himself, a smirk ying at the corners of his mouth. "Very good."


    He had an idea and instructed, "You remember those people who were framed by Harvey and sent to the quarantine area, don''t you? Once the research is sessful, we can use them for experiments. I''m sure they''ll be more than willing." "Yes, Mr. Kallum."


    "Also, about Mom and Dad... Go and tell them about my situation."


    Shaun was somewhat puzzled. "Mr. Kallum, aren''t you going to announce the good news to them yourself?"


    "I''m still in a lot of difort!" Kallum shifted his body uneasily, his eyes shing with determination. "And there are still a few nuisances waiting for me to deal with!"


    On one side, Quintus, who was seething with anger, seemed eager to take action. He said, "Mr. Kallum, given how that old geezer treated you, how should we deal with him?"


    As Kallum let out a cold, mockingugh, a glint of icy light shed across his eyes.


    "I want him toe begging to me in tears!"


    In a state of half-sleep, Calista suddenly noticed a figure approaching, causing her to jolt upright in rm. She realized the person was none other than Kallum.


    "You... You''re awake?"


    She rubbed her eyes, asking absentmindedly, "How do you feel? Why didn''t Old Mr. Yancey wake me up? How long was I asleep?"


    Kallum chuckled lightly. "I feel fine. I didn''t let him call you. The task of observing and analyzing can be left to them. You should rest a bit more. They told me you haven''t slept for over forty hours." In the end, he wore an expression of disagreement.


    In a soft voice, Calista said, "Isn''t it all for today?"


    She paused for a moment, initially deciding to withhold her thoughts, but eventually, she voiced them out. "Horatio has a grudge against me, which is why I''m constantly on guard against him. These past few days, I''ve been working non stop, just preparing myself."


    Kallum slightly raised an eyebrow. "You knew all along he had bad intentions?"


    Calista shook her head. "I knew he had heart issues at this time, but what I hadn''t realized was that he hadn''t found a heart donor yet. In memory, he had found a suitable one, so when he suddenly attacked you, guessed he was probably targeting me... He''s the kind of person who values his life above all else, so him acting this way, while surprising, was not entirely


    unexpected..."


    She suddenly broke into a mischievous grin. "But in the end, he was found at Sky Beacon Hospital. Now, Sky Beacon Hospital is mine. Without a dirty source, his heart could copse at any moment. I suppose this is my indirect way of getting revenge," she said.


    Kallum discovered that he had a


    peculiar fondness for Calista''s expression when she spoke of revenge. It was a kind of satisfaction that was vivid and endearing.


    Previously, if she were frosty, el. no


    would transform into a wicked, sharp, and slightly cunning figure once she began tormenting others.


    Upon hearing Calista''s sharp words about Horatio, Kallum also felt a surge of satisfaction. He sat on the edge of the bed, hesitating for a moment before he spoke.


    "Sorry. If it weren''t for me, he wouldn''t have considered hurting you."


    Calista nced at him. "It''s all right. Perhaps this is simply fate. In his past life, he had the same intention toward me. After all, the allure of prolonging one''s life is irresistible to those on the brink of death."


    Kallum chuckled lightly, suddenly finding Calista to be a rather naive girl. While some people always liked to me others for whatever happened, she, on the other hand, was always looking for reasons within herself.


    After some thought, he climbed onto the bed andy down next to her.


    "Thank you. It''s wonderful to have you."


    Calista was taken aback, immediately followed by a frown.


    She would rather bicker with Kallum because every time he acted docile, she felt somewhat helpless.


    So, she got up, ready to get out of bed. "If you''re still tired, rest a bit more. I''ll go check on theb."


    However, Kallum held her around the waist, a weary look in his eyes. "Can we talk about whatever it is tomorrow? I won''t touch you. Will you stay with me for a while?"


    Calista was in a quandary for a moment, but then, directly, Kallum tucked her back into the nket.


    "Don''t worry," he assured her, "I won''t harm you. I''ve just recovered from an illness, and I have no intention of getting sick again."


    Calista found the situation quite challenging.


    Surrounded by the refreshing scent that was uniquely Kallum''s, she felt a sense of frustration. Despite her repeated insistence on being just a sister to him, it was as if Kallum hadpletely disregarded her words, continuing to act in his usual manner.

 Chapter 369 It Tastes Terrible

    Recalling how Kallum had looked, utterly drained after the painful serum injection earlier today, Calista furrowed her brows. In the end, she closed her eyes.


    I''ll let it slide this time, but next time, I must set clear boundaries with him.


    Feeling Calista''s body gradually rxing, Kallum slowly opened his eyes, a slight smile ying at the corners of his mouth.


    When Calista suddenly injected him with the antiserum, a wave of intense pain surged through Kallum, igniting a desire to roar and tear apart the world. Yet, simply because their fingers were intertwined, he astonishingly managed to endure the agony. At that moment, he also came to a sudden realization.


    He had never once considered letting her go.


    Even when they argued, even when unpleasant incidents urred, even when they were facing countless difficulties, deep down, no matter how harsh his words were, he still considered her his and his alone.


    So, since he couldn''t let go, he decided to hold on tighter. Forget about dignity and all that. My wife is about to leave him. Can dignity keep me warm at night?


    When Calista woke up again, it was already the middle of the night. Hunger had roused her from her sleep, but so had the heat. At some point, Kallum had pulled her close, their bodies pressing together under the covers. Calista felt herself breaking out in a sweat. Seeing Kallum taking advantage of her once again, Calista bit back her irritation. Considering it waste at night, and she didn''t want to cause too muchmotion, she gently moved Kallum''s hand away. It took a considerable amount of effort for her to free herself. "Where are you going?" Just as Calista was about to leave, Kallum immediately stopped pretending to be asleep and quickly sat up.


    Calista gestured toward the outside. "I''m heading to the kitchen to whip up some food."


    "Just have the housekeeper do it."


    Calista shook his head. "It''s three in the morning now. Let''s not bother anyone."


    Kallum then got up from bed. "All right. I''ll go with you."


    "You can''t cook, can you?"


    "Who said so?" Kallum raised an eyebrow. Although he had never cooked before, who was to say he couldn''t handle something as simple as cooking?


    "Can''t I lend a hand? Besides, I''m also hungry."


    Only then did Calistapromise. Instead of heading to the main house, they rummaged for food in the small kitchen of theboratory. However, the refrigerator was nearly empty. Left with no other choice, Calista pulled out some pasta. "It seems I''ll have to settle for pasta with fried egg."


    Kallum was indifferent, mainly because the ingredients were simple, and there wasn''t much to prepare. He found himself idly watching Calista as she cooked. Observing her skillfully fry the eggs, Kallum, who initially wasn''t very hungry, gradually found his stomach growling.


    As she lifted the lid off the pot, the warm steam from the kitchen enveloped her, seemingly chasing away the chill from her body in an instant. Her delicate profile and the slight upward curve of her lips made Kallum suddenly avert his gaze, feeling even more "hungry." One could say that he had been hungry for a very long time.


    "Do you cook often?" Kallum asked, trying to divert his attention. Seeing her adeptness, he couldn''t help but inquire.


    Since Kallum had discovered her secret, Calista didn''t bother to hide it anymore. She casually mentioned, "When I was alone in the past, I used to cook for myself."


    Kallum blinked, his lips curving into a smile. "So... Am I your first customer?"


    Calista tilted her head in thought. "No, I''ve done the same for Wyatt before."


    Kallum had a good memory. He instantly recalled thest time he went to see Calista. He had noticed two bowls of pasta on Wyatt''s desk. Could it be that they were made by Calista?


    He was initially quite cheerful, but his mood soured abruptly. As he looked at the nearly prepared pasta, he suddenly started to act like a spoiled guy.


    "I don''t want to eat pasta anymore!"


    Calista gave him a puzzled look, firmly stating, "No."


    "Why?"


    "I don''t like to waste," she said, dividing the pasta evenly. Pointing to therger bowl, she added, "If you don''t finish this, don''t expect me to make you anything else."


    Kallum raised his eyebrows slightly at her. "So, you''re saying you want to cook for me in the future?"


    Calista shot him a sidelong nce,


    carrying her bowl of pasta as she made to leave. However, Kallum blocked her path. His tall figure stood in her way, radiating an air of confidence. His eyes were filled with a bright, cheerful smile.


    "First, answer this. If I finish eating, will you still cook for me in the future?"


    Calista frowned. "Don''t you have housekeepers?"


    "I was just kidding," said Kallum. Suddenly, he leaned down and pecked her lips, quickly murmuring, "I can''t bear to see you struggle." "Kallum!"


    Had Calista not been holding a bowl


    in one hand, she would never have been caught off guard. She held back her frustration and asked, "Did you just ignore what I said? I told


    you you''re not allowed toy a finger


    on me in the future!"


    As Kallum heard this, his eyebrows arched up high. Then, unexpectedly, he lowered his head and stole a kiss from Calista.


    "Didn''t I keep my hands and feet to myself? Is it not okay to just use my mouth?"


    Calista pursed her lips tightly, giving him a hard stare. She sidestepped him and walked out of the kitchen, then ced the serving of pasta on the table. With a stern face, she began to eat.


    The ambush was sessful, and Kallum was thrilled. Without any hint of shame, he moved closer and began to eat the pasta.


    It had to be said that Calista''s


    excellent culinary skills took Kallum


    by surprise. However, when he


    considered the price she had paid to acquire these skills, he found a sour note in the bowl of pasta.


    "You should stop cooking in the future."


    He chuckled. "It tastes terrible!"

 Chapter 370 Side Effects

    Calista narrowed her eyes, "If it doesn''t taste good, just put it down."


    Kallum said helplessly, "No way. You were the one who said we shouldn''t waste anything."


    Calista was taken aback. She had hoped that Kallum would argue with her, giving her a hundred ways to handle him coldly. But when he switched tactics, Calista found herself in a tricky situation.


    It shouldn''t have been like this. She had given up on him in this life due to the circumstances of her past life, and he was secretly nurturing the idea of winning her over. It would have been only fair for him to feel wronged and filled with anger and resentment. Yet, how was it that he had managed to adjust his mindset in just a few days?


    As Calista was eating her pasta, she was filled with confusion, yet she subtly began to be on guard.


    After finishing her meal, she quickly freshened up, intending to get some rest. Unexpectedly, Kallum actually followed her.


    Calista was blocking the door, looking up at him. "My dear brother, if you don''t know how to get to your room, should I have someone escort you there?"


    She emphasized the words "my dear brother" heavily. Kallum narrowed his eyes at her for a moment, then suddenly chuckled softly.


    "Do you know?" He propped his hand against the door frame, preventing Calista from closing the door. He lowered his head and chuckled. "To me, when you call me ''brother'', it''s just a yful tease. I don''t mind if you call me that a few more times." When Calista heard those words, her expression turned cold, and she decided to provoke him.


    "Heh, just a few days ago someone imed they wouldn''t beg me anymore. So, what are you doing now? Begging me to let you in?"


    When the unpleasant argument was mentioned, Kallum scoffed, but he wasn''t fooled. "I didn''t ask for your permission. The whole Fairchild family belongs to me, and I can go wherever I please. What right do you have to stop me?"


    His words... make sense. Calista''s face turned cold.


    "Fine. Since you like this room, I''ll leave!"


    But before she could even take a step, Kallum had already swept her off her feet.


    Calista was startled. "Kallum! What are you doing?"


    After entering the room, Kallum kicked the door shut. Disregarding her struggles, he pinned her down on the bed.


    Suddenly, a cold light shed from Calista''s fingertips. Before Kallum could press down, she used two needles to create a barrier between them.


    "Get off me! Is the esteemed heir of the Fairchild family so desperate for a woman that he can only resort to force?"


    When Calista pointed the "weapon" at him, Kallum was quite upset. However, he had learned his lesson and didn''tsh out in anger again. Instead, he obediently stood up.


    At that moment, he suddenly furrowed his brows, bracing himself against the bed. Without warning, he copsed onto the bed, his body curling up as he was ovee with an extreme sense of difort.


    The sudden change in him took Calista by surprise. She got out of bed and stood by its edge, expressing her hesitation. "Stop pretending. If you won''t leave, I will."


    As she spoke, she started to walk


    toward the exit. However, as she


    reached the doorway, Kallum did note to stop her as she had anticipated. Calista furrowed her brows. Could it be the side effects of the medicine?


    Cold sweat broke out on Kallum''s forehead, which rmed Calista. It was then she realized he wasn''t pretending. She quickly approached him and asked anxiously, "How are you feeling?" Seeing her approach, Kallum tightly held her hand, then whispered, "I''m fine. Old Mr. Yancey said that a sudden sharp pain is a normal reaction."


    Calista felt a bit troubled. "Then, let me get you some painkillers."


    "No need!" Kallum refused, holding her even tighter.


    "Just let me hold you for a bit."


    Having said that, he didn''t wait for Calista to react. He swiftly pulled her onto the bed, pinning her beneath him once again, preventing any chance of escape.


    "Kallum Fairchild!"


    "Shh-" Kallum pressed a finger against her lips, his eyes closed at hand. Under his prominent nose, his thin lips were tightly pressed together, and after a moment, he spoke again.


    "I feel awful. Let me hold you for a while."


    It was truly baffling. Back when he was ill, he acted as if nothing was wrong. But now that he had recovered, he couldn''t even endure the slightest side effect? She reckoned he must be doing this on purpose. Calista struggled a bit, but Kallum''s embrace was exceptionally tight. She felt like she was suffocating.


    After such ate-night ordeal, Calista was truly exhausted. But the thought that she would be able to live outside from tomorrow gave her strength. Tonight, she decided to endure it onest time. With this thought in mind, Calista spoke in a dissatisfied tone. "Let go. I... I''ll let you hold me, then!"


    Upon hearing this, Kallum indeed seemed to rx a bit. He appeared so rational that it was hard to believe he was in unbearable pain.


    She gritted her teeth, deciding to put these vexing matters out of her mind. She would move out first thing tomorrow.


    Before she fell asleep, she voiced her concerns with a hint of unease.


    "Don''t... don''t move around. You''ve just been injected with an antiserum. We have no idea what changes it might cause inside your body. If you get infected again, there''s a high chance of unforeseen and severe consequences. You understand what I''m saying, right?"  Burying his head in her shoulder, Kallum suddenly stirred. As he turned his head to look at her, the pain he had endured seemed to dissipate, leaving him feeling as light as a cloud. At her words, he couldn''t help but chuckle. He leaned closer to her ear with ill intent, his voice low and suggestive.


    "I know you''re worried I might ''devour'' you in the middle of the night."


    He paused for a moment, his voice bing even more enticing, causing a sudden tingling sensation to rush through half of Calista''s body.


    "Don''t worry," he assured, "as long as you don''t provoke me, I don''t mind waiting a few more days, after holding back for so long."


    With a forceful push, Calista knocked him off her, issuing a stern warning.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 371 Cannot Shut Him Out

    "What do you mean by ''a few more days''? Please remember, we''re not in that kind of rtionship anymore, my dear brother!" "Biological brother, huh?"


    Before Calista could unleash her anger, Kallum pulled her into a tight embrace, cating her hastily, "I know, I know. We''re not in a casual rtionship where we can just touch each other freely anymore." Upon hearing this, Calista slightly rxed, but then, Kallum spoke again with a mischievous grin.


    "But to devour you, it seems I wouldn''t need to lift a finger."


    "Kallum!"


    Calista made a move to get up, but Kallum was one step ahead. He pulled the nket from beneath them, wrapping both of them inside it, much like a roll cake, all bundled up together.


    The intimate, close-knit position caused Calista''s body to tense up entirely. Despite her few attempts to struggle, Kallum suddenly held her tighter.


    "Don''t move! All this brushing against me... Are you trying to seduce me?"


    Calista was at a loss for words, feeling an extreme headache. The situation was unfolding quite differently from what she had anticipated.


    "Kallum..."


    With a stern face, Calistay on his chest, speaking in a somewhat weak voice. "There are so many women in the world. You just couldn''t have them before, but soon, you can have any woman you desire. Why bother..." "I simply wish to devote myself to one person, giving up the forest for a tree, and as the tree, you have no say in it."


    Kallum quietly watched her, a smile gracing his lips. At that moment, Calista looked into his eyes, feeling as though she was about to be ensnared in the vast web he had cast.


    She wanted to say more, but Kallum had already gently pressed her head against his chest.


    "Go to sleep."


    "But..."


    "Can''t sleep? Let''s do something meaningful, then. Trust me. I know how to devour you without any risk of infection. Want to give it a try?"


    Calista became silent.


    However, she couldn''t stop the thoughts in her mind.


    There was no way that Kallum could avoid getting infected... It must be a lie.


    The next day, Calista was roused from her drowsy state by an annoyance, as if something was trying to invade her mouth.


    "Mmm... Ah! Kall..."


    The moment she opened her mouth, he seized the opportunity. Shocked, Calista couldn''t help but widen her eyes. After putting forth a great deal of effort to push him away, she angrily wiped her mouth. "Are you just letting my words go in one ear and out the other? Do you want to get re-infected?"


    Kallum, somewhat unsatisfied, lingered his gaze on her lips, grumbling in discontent, "You were already a special case of infection. Unless I had a deep interaction with you, I wouldn''t have been infected to this extent." "You!"


    Calista was utterly defeated. She simply couldn''tprehend how her status as a special infectee could possibly bring such convenience to Kallum.


    Unable to make sense of it all, she made up her mind to get out of bed and decided to move into the rented house that very night. "Wait a moment."


    "What are you nning now?" Calista watched him warily.


    Kallum looked at her, somewhat helpless. "I was just trying to help you get dressed."


    "Why?" Calista refused, "I''m not handicapped."


    Kallum slightly raised an eyebrow. "You''ve always been the one taking care of me. Now, the tables have turned, I''ll take care of you!" ""No, I refuse!"


    Calista picked up her coat. Thankfully, she hadn''t undressed the night before. She slipped on her shoes and left.


    Seeing Calista leave in such a hurry, Kallum voiced his dissatisfaction.


    "Am I really that terrifying? You''re in such a rush..."


    He shifted ufortably, feeling the toll of the morning''s reaction. Why had Calista woken up so early?


    After Calista stepped outside, despite her stern expression, she couldn''t help but blush. The reaction from Kallum was something she couldn''t possibly ignore. All in all, she felt outsmarted once again. After freshening up, Calista started to regain herposure. Having eaten, she encountered Wilbur on her way to theboratory.


    It was rumored that Wilbur was a child of Wanda''s rtives. Although he had recently been residing with the Fairchild family, he generally didn''t venture out, preferring to stay indoors and read.


    And there he was, standing in the hallway, admiring a camellia. Dressed in a beige patterned sweater and white cotton trousers, he looked every bit the schr.


    "You''re here? Come and take a look at this flower. Isn''t it beautiful?"


    His smile exuded an irresistible warmth,pelling Calista to approach him unconsciously.


    She didn''t really know much about flowers. After a long gaze, she simply uttered, "It''s beautiful."


    Wilburughed again. Hisugh had a certain charm, a perfect blend of warmth and sophistication that effortlessly won people over.


    "We haven''t caught up recently. How have you been feeling?"


    Although on the surface, Wilbur


    didn''t do anything to her, he had actually asked Kallum to help her ovee her emotional issues under the guise of the saying that the one who tied the bell must untie


    it.


    reality, his treatment had


    already begun.


    Narrowing her eyes, Calista pondered for a moment, then spoke.


    "I''ve been feeling, recently, that my heart has been filled with unnecessary emotions, making my inner world quiteplex."


    This was Calista''s most immediate


    thought. Had she known about


    Kallum''s connection with the


    v


    research center right after her reincarnation, she would have sought revenge without a secon thought. Or she would havepletely cut off all ties instead of being in her current state. Although she had decided to sever ties, whenever she faced Kallum''s pursuit, she always felt a reluctance topletely shut him out.


    Wilbur raised an eyebrow. "That''s a good sign!" This also confirmed that Kallum''s decision to help her untangle her emotional knots was indeed effective. Many issues could arise when feelings were


    suppressed. So, Wilbur''s advice to


    Kattum was to uncover the


    truth, no


    matter how deep he had to dig,


    without fear of it being too overwhelming.

 Chapter 372 Should Not Let Go Of Oneself

    For a woman as strong as Calista, she could handle even the greatest shocks.


    "Why is it considered good?" Calista, unaware of the underlying reasons, furrowed his brows and said, "I feel they only bring me trouble."


    Wilbur chuckled lightly. "Then, I must congratte you. Having worries means you''re getting closer to themon folk. I''m not saying there''s something wrong with you. Rather, your previous feelings were quite unconventional. Besides, there''s nothing wrong with being ordinary, right? I, for one, revel in being an average Joe."


    Calista paused for a moment.


    "So, are you saying my changes are because I''m returning to normal?" She pondered over her past self for a moment, then suddenly furrowed her brows. "I don''t want to revert back to who I used to be."


    Seeing her aversion to the past, Wilbur shook his head and reassured her, "Don''t worry. You''ll never revert back to the way you were before. You''ll only be better than you are now." "Better than now?"


    With a smile, Wilbur confidently stated, "Naturally, it''ll be better. There''s an old saying about rebirth from the ashes, but such rebirth is divided into two parts. The moment you undergo a profound change, you cast aside all the traits you no longer desired, marking your rebirth. However, only after experiencing the refining of time, adjusting your mindset, and reevaluating yourself, can you truly attain rebirth. On the clear stage of your mind, you should retrieve what shouldn''t be abandoned, discard what truly needs to be discarded, and extract what''s truly needed. Eliminate malice and return to nature; only then can you achieve true transcendence. So, at that time, you will be better than you are now."


    Calista nced at him.


    "After being abandoned, there''s naturally no need to reim it, right? Just like cowardice... What''s its use?"


    Wilbur reached out his hand, opened her palm, and ced a piece of candy in it.


    "Cowards are usually gentle, not ones to hold grudges. Who''s to say that''s a bad thing? Every trait exists for a reason. How can we differentiate between what''s useful and what''s not?"


    Calista pinched the piece of candy, her eyebrows furrowing slightly before he handed it back. "I don''t really like sweets," she said.


    Satisfied, Wilburughed and gently pushed the hand away.


    "But Mrs. Fairchild once mentioned that the old Calista used to have a sweet tooth, didn''t she? You can let go of many things, but you shouldn''t let go of yourself, right?"


    Calista was taken aback, but Wilbur had already walked away with a smile, leaving her holding the candy, a bit at a loss.


    Kallum watched from the end of the hallway. Even though he knew he shouldn''t be jealous, he couldn''t help but feel a pang of envy seeing Calista chatting happily with another man. He almost wished he could chase that bothersome man away.


    However, Wilbur could indeed help Calista... With this thought, he suppressed the displeasure in his heart. His expression, however, remained unhappy. If he had known earlier, he would have minored in psychology.


    Calista mulled over, gazing at the candy in her hand. After much contemtion, she popped it into her mouth, her face void of any expression. Indeed, it was the milk candy she used to adore so much.


    Before, she had always felt as if she were alive, but her soul was floating in mid-air, observing with detached indifference. But now, she could asionally feel that she was truly "alive" without experiencing pain. From this perspective, her change should be seen as a positive development, shouldn''t it?


    In the evening, it was just her and Kallum having dinner. Calista couldn''t help but ask, "What are you nning to do about Horatio?"


    Seeing her concern, Kallum responded with a smile, though his tone was somewhat cold.


    "I severed all trade rtions between our two families. Despite some losses, everyone now knows about our feud. There''s no way he could borrow money now. He must be at his wit''s end by now."


    Thinking of Horatio''s pitiful state,


    Calista chuckled lightly. Seeing


    Kallum engrossed in his meal, she hesitated for a moment before suggesting softly, "I this that this is a great opportunity. After the scare at the Ingram residence, I had miscarriage. This way, no matter What you do to the Ingram family, it would be justified. Others won''t be able to find fault with you. What do you think?"


    After finishing her statement, Calista nced at Kallum, expecting him to be upset. To her surprise, although his eyes dimmed momentarily, he spoke up. "That''ll do."


    Calista was taken aback, finding it somewhat inconceivable that Kallum had given in so quickly.


    Yet, Kallum was looking at her as he continued to speak.


    "I didn''t pressure you, so can you please not pressure me as well?"


    Confronted by his gaze, Calista couldn''t help but feel an inexplicable tension. She lowered her head to eat, unsure of how to respond.


    However, Kallum did not let her go.


    want to do? I can


    "What do you wa


    amodate you in every way possible. can keep giving in. But you... I don''t need you toe toward me. Can you at least stand still where you are? Is that okay?"


    Is that okay?


    Is that okay?


    Calista was slightly hesitant. Under the warm glow of the light, she faltered only for a moment before speaking with conviction.


    "I''m nning to move out and stay elsewhere tonight."


    Kallum''s grip tightened around his fork and knife due to her response, which reflected her stance.


    Just as Calista braced herself for Kallum''s wrath, he gradually calmed down.


    "If you''re truly determined to do so, then go ahead as you wish."


    This peculiarly good-natured demeanor left Calista even more perplexed. What on earth was Kallum trying to do?


    After having her meal, Calista


    returned to theboratory, where she busied herself until one in the morning. Throughout this time, Kallum didn''te to find her, which she found increasingly peculiar.

 Chapter 373 In The Darkness

    But who cares? Maybe... Perhaps Kallum has already given up, seeing that I remained unmoved by his efforts?


    Calista felt inexplicably irritated. She shook her head and headed toward the house she had rented. Since a housekeeper had already cleaned it, she could move in immediately.


    Looking at the quaint country-style mansion before her, she realized that this would be her temporary home in the future.


    The mansion consisted of just one bedroom, a study, and a practice room-three rooms in total. It used to be home to a young couple. Although it was said to be two stories, it was actually just one. In order to maintain their privacy and undisturbed world of two, they didn''t even set up a guest room. This time, they decided to rent out their house because they were nning to go on a long-term trip.


    For Calista, this ce was quite suitable. If the house was toorge, she didn''t feel secure living in it.


    Since only the downstairs bathroom had a bathtub, Calista had taken a bath there before heading upstairs. By the time she entered her room, she was already quite exhausted. Therefore, she didn''t bother turning on the lights and simply copsed onto the bed. But the moment she fell down, she jolted back up as if she''d been electrocuted.


    There was someone on the bed!


    Though she was quick, someone was even quicker. A shadowy figure swiftly scooped up Calista into his arms. With a swift roll onto the romantic circr bed, he had her pinned underneath him.


    Upon catching a whiff of the familiar scent, Calista gave the other party a swift thump in a fit of frustration.


    "Kallum! What are you doing here?"


    Her heart was pounding wildly.


    In the darkness, Kallum chuckled softly. "Why can''t I be here? From now on, we''re roommates!"


    "Are you kidding me?" Calista''s temper red up a bit. "I signed a contract with thendlord!"


    Kallum spoke with a hint of smugness. "But what can you do? I''ve already bought this house. I bet even if you try calling them tomorrow, they won''t pick up. So, you might as well save your energy!" Calista was speechless. "You... bought it?"


    "Exactly!" Although Kallum was joking, his tone was surprisingly firm. "Wherever you decide to live in the future, I''ll buy a house there. If you buy a ce, I''ll purchase the one across from you. You won''t be able to escape from me for the rest of your life, Callie." Calista was at a loss for how to face him anymore.


    She closed her eyes briefly. No wonder Kallum let me go so easily. He was waiting for me here all along... D*mn it!


    How despicable!


    "Get away from me!"


    When she was angry, her voice was full of vitality. Kallum really enjoyed teasing her, especially when she lost control. "You better not move around too much."


    In the darkness, Kallum''s body grew increasingly warm, causing Calista''s skin, wherever he touched, to shudder.


    He took a light sniff of her, speaking with restrained patience.


    "Otherwise, I really can''t hold back anymore."


    It was only then that Calista realized she hade upstairs draped only in a bath towel. Despite not being able to see anything during their interaction, it felt as though Kallum had taken full advantage of the situation. Calista, in extreme annoyance, responded with a sarcastic scoff.


    "Get out of my sight!"


    "No, this is my home."


    "Then, I''m leaving!"


    "I won''t let you leave."


    "Kallum!" Calista forcefully pushed him and sat up. "You''re shameless!"


    Kallum, however, didn''t see it that e


    way. He sat up, casually ruffling his hair in an unintentionally alluring way His voice carried an underlying


    threat. erlying


    "Do you know? I can sink even lower."


    Calista was about to say something but was silenced as Kallum expertly grasped her chin.


    At night, she was blind, a


    "You''d best not test the patience of a wolf, especially when it''s hungry."


    The suppressed tone in his voice frightened Calista, for she realized that Kallum was not joking. He was truly enduring a great deal of hardship.


    She couldn''t help but hug herself tighter. This seemingly vulnerable gesture, however, only served to fuel her opponent''s fervor.


    In the darkness, Kallum''s breath quickened. With his vision, the sight of the beautyid bare before him was enough to drive anyone mad. "Callie..."


    He called out her name in a low, husky voice, kneeling with his head bowed. Lifting her chin, he longed to kiss her.


    Instinctively, Calista attempted to resist, but Kallum suddenly became assertive.


    "If you don''t behave, I''ll ''devour'' you tonight. I believe you haven''t forgotten what you promised me that night at the amusement park."


    Only then did Calista recall that day when she said... If Kallum found her before midnight, she would be his for the night.


    Calista, with a defiant tilt of her chin, said, "We were both infected back then. Now, are you trying to get re-infected?"


    "Heh..."


    Since Calista couldn''t see, the man''s deepughter was all the more maddening. His hands mischievously toyed with her hair, speaking in a dangerous tone. "So, you''re saying, as long as I can avoid getting infected, you''ll agree to my proposal?"


    The areas his breath touched


    sparked a shudder within her. Calista suddenly bit her lower lip, unable to speak. Because she believed there was a chance that Kallum actually had a solution


    swne


    Seeing her finally realize her fear, Kallum''s smile broadened. His eyes ignited with a purple me as he asked in a hushed tone.


    "Now, are you going to behave or not?"


    "..."


    Calista feigned hesitation, but in the next moment, she made a sudden move to break free. However, Kallum urately caught her hand.

 Chapter 374 Never Intend To Give A Chance

    "I always knew my Callie is quite formidable. She even knows how to use a needle."


    With a swift move, Kallum managed to dislodge the silver needle from Calista''s grasp, whichnded on the bed. Nonchntly, he tossed it onto the floor.


    "But if you don''t behave, I really won''t be able to resist, Darling!"


    A single, endearing utterance of ''darling'' from him sent shivers down Calista''s spine. Silently gritting her teeth, she finally acknowledged that she was no match for him.


    With the only pin now lost, she clung to her bath towel, finally at a loss for what to do next.


    "What exactly do you want?"


    In her heart, she reassured herself over and over again, asserting that Kallum would surely not dare to touch her. She didn''t need to... didn''t need to worry.


    Indeed, Kallum had no intention ofying a hand on her. All he wanted was to negotiate some benefits. However, Calista was rather difficult to deal with, leaving him no choice but to resort to half coercion, half persuasion. Could there be a more unfortunate fianc¨¦ than him?


    Despite his sighs, Kallum was quick to undress.


    Upon hearing the sound of Kallum undressing, Calista was nearly jolted off her feet.


    "What are you nning to do?"


    Seeing her attempt to flee, Kallum swiftly removed his clothes. With a quick grasp of her ankle, he pulled her back. She was once again toppled by him, held tightly in his embrace.


    Once he was free of the cumbersome clothing, the contact of their bodies caused Kallum to sharply draw in a breath.


    "Don''t move! D*mn it... You''re driving me insane! Calista, are you doing this on purpose?"


    Feeling the intense masculine presence, Calista finally managed to calm down quickly.


    "Let''s set some ground rules, shall we?"


    Kallum was taken aback. Why on earth would they propose a set of ground rules at a time like this?


    He leaned in to kiss her face, but Calista dodged him. "I want to set some ground rules! Ground rules!"


    Seeing her a bit flustered, Kallum suddenly felt a sense of aplishment. He yfully nipped at her cheek. "Tell me. What do you want?"


    Calista forced herself to remain calm, assuring herself that Kallum wouldn''t dare to touch her. He wouldn''t dare! He just wouldn''t.


    "Do..." Her voice faltered. "Do you still have feelings for me?"


    Kallum pinched the soft flesh on her waist, his voice deep and resonant. "If I''m not dead, how could my heart be?"


    In other words, as long as he was alive, he wouldn''t give up on his feelings for her.


    For some unknown reason, Calista felt a sudden warmth spread across her face. Perhaps it was because his body temperature was unusually high. He was like a burning furnace. "Would you... perhaps loosen your grip a bit if I were to give you a chance?"


    Calista''s words prompted Kallum to slowly sit up and look at her. "Are you saying I''m pursuing you too eagerly?"


    "Just like what you''re doing now, buying the house I''m renting. You''re making me feel suffocated!" Calista said, somewhat displeased.


    "So, you''re considering giving me a chance?" A glint of amusement flickered in Kallum''s eyes. "Why do I feel like you''re ying a game with me? Giving me hope first, then slipping away when I let my guard down. What''s your n?" Did you perhaps guess a bit too urately?


    Calista showed no signs of guilt. "It''s because you don''t trust me. That''s why I insisted on setting ground rules."


    "How should we do this?" Kallum


    twirled her hair around his fingers, his voice heavy with expectation. "Firstly, you can only give me a chance. Secondly, when you give me that chance, you must ultimately say ''yes'' Thirdly, you can''t keep me waiting too long. Does that sound fair?"


    Calista red at him. "You''ve set all three rules. What''s the point of this game anymore?"


    Kallum stared at her, his voice suddenly lowering. "Are you serious? Give me a chance."


    He was so restless. From the moment Calista uttered those words, he knew they were merely perfunctory. Yet, deep down, he was desperate to believe that he had touched her heart and been granted a second chance.


    Calista was initially inclined to say "yes." However, even though she couldn''t see him, she could still sense Kallum''s intense gaze fixated on her. It seemed that behind his casual smile, this answer held immense importance. Suddenly, she felt a twinge of pity.


    Kallum seemed to give a bitterugh. "Indeed. I had guessed as much already."


    He didn''t seem disheartened at all. Instead, he leaned forward, his wordsced with a hint of gritted


    resentment. "You never intendede


    give me a chance from the start, did you? Once you''ve made up your mind, you''re unyielding, you heartless little thing!"


    Calista inexplicably felt a sense of guilt.


    "Sleep now," Kallummanded, wrapping her in an assertive yetforting embrace. After all themotion, he no longer had the mood to tease her.


    Although she was stark naked, Calista was worried that if she resisted or made more demands, Kallum''s lust might be rekindled. Therefore, she finally calmed down.


    Kallum held her with a bitter smile. He understoodpletely why Calista was so obedient, and this understanding left him heartbroken.


    However, he knew not to push her too hard. Slow and steady wins the race, after all. He understood that being too forceful with Calista would only backfire. He had to gradually win her over, melt her defenses, and im her. He was well aware of this principle. Thus, the first night after Calista moved out went by without any incident.


    The following day, Calista was staring at theputer in front of her, feeling a bit anxious.


    &veline


    The antiserum for the K Virus was now in its final experimental stage. This meant that her recovery was imminent, with a timeline ranging from as short as one month to as long as three months. Even though she hadn''t fully recovered yet Kallum was already eyeing her like a hawk. Once she was healed, there was no way Kallum would be able to hold back.


    Hence, either Kallum would give up on her before she recovered, or she should not recover at all. Unexpectedly, the one thing that could protect her in the end turned out to be the K Virus.

 Chapter 375 Sudden Ambush

    Calista shook her head. Before she had made her decision, she had pondered about being with Kallum. But every time she was in a clear state of mind, whenever she thought of him, she would think of those fungal powders that had entered her body, those inhumane


    experiments, and the cold research center. She simply couldn''t! She absolutely couldn''t ept it!


    With a firm resolution in her heart, Calista gradually regained her senses. At that moment, she received a call from Jarrett. It turned out it was time for Ambrose''s follow-up visit. As expected, this was supposed to be the final check-up. "All right. I''ll be there promptly at three in the afternoon."


    Kallum had been busy dealing with matters pertaining to the Ingram family. The two families had always been on good terms, so their sudden fallout caused much dissatisfaction among the Fairchild family toward Calista. They believed that ever since Kallum fell for her, the Fairchild family, which had always been in good standing and friendly with all sides, had inexplicably made quite a few enemies. Although they didn''t fear these adversaries, friends were always better than enemies, weren''t they? Therefore, while Kallum was handling Horatio, he also had to take the time to straighten out his own household.


    When Calista left the house, Kallum was uneasy. However, Calista felt that she was just going straight to the Sinir residence by car, so there was nothing unsafe about it. Therefore, she only took Julian with her.


    Julian was quite the chatterbox. He just wouldn''t stop talking throughout the journey.


    "Ms. Calista, I think you should get out more. Most girls your age are always out and about. But you, you hardly ever leave the house when you have free time."


    Facing the simple-minded Julian, Calista felt rtively at ease. "If I hadn''t worked hard, Mr. Kallum wouldn''t have recovered so quickly."


    She took a rare moment to show off.


    Julian touched his nose and said, "You''re right. We''ve all seen how much you care for Mr. Kallum, Ms. Calista. Won''t you consider making amends with him?"


    Calista slightly raised an eyebrow, surprised by Julian''s unexpected remark.


    Under the somewhat detached gaze of Calista, Julian gathered his courage and said, "We all believe that since you and Mr. Kallum are mutually fond of each other, so why aren''t you together?" Calista''s smile slightly froze. "Some things can''t be easily exined in a few words."


    Julian wanted to ask more, but just then, the car was suddenly hit.


    The car had surged forward a considerable distance, but thanks to the excellent shock absorption system, Calista was unharmed, save for a minor bump on her head.


    After Julian managed to steady himself, his face instantly turned serious.


    "What''s going on?"


    The driver, rubbing his forehead in bewilderment, said, "We''ve been rear-ended. They were going so fast!"


    Julian turned around to look, and sure enough, a ck car was parked behind them. Smoke was billowing from its hood, indicating it had taken quite a hit.


    "Didn''t that person get out of the car? Could they be injured?"


    Turning back, Calista saw someone slumped over the driver''s seat, seemingly injured.


    With a soothing tone, Julian said, "Ms. Calista, please stay in the car. I''ll go and take a look."


    After he got out of the car, he went to check on the person and found him covered in blood, unconscious. It was to be expected, given the force of the collision, it was only normal for him to be injured. Upon seeing Julian dragging down a person drenched in blood, Calista promptly instructed the Sinir family to lend a hand.


    The driver acknowledged, having already alerted the police. The authorities were quick to arrive, but this inevitably dyed Calista''s visit to the Sinir residence.


    After the driver had exited the


    vehicle, Calista started to feel a bit uneasy. At this time, the road they were on was seldom traveled. On either side, neatly trimmed slopes rose four to five meters high, topped with a full spread of trees. As the wind blew through, the rustling


    sound they created made her frown.


    Julian noticed the driver getting out of the vehicle, handed over the unconscious individual to him, and was about to return to Calista''s side. But just then, a ck car sped toward them, striking Calista''s vehicle once again! In his haste to get out, the driver failed to engage the handbrake. Consequently, Calista''s car was nudged from behind, causing it to roll forward.


    She jolted in surprise. After stabilizing herself, she quickly thought of opening the vehicle''s door to jump out.


    Julian yelled out, "Ms. Calista, don''te out!"


    The sound of two gunshots echoed. Calista quickly withdrew her head, which she had just poked out. The bullets lodged deeply into the car door. Fortunately, the car was heavily armored, and even the windows were bulletproof. As tong as Calista stayed inside, the sniper would be powerless. This also implied that there was more than one enemy, and they were waiting for her to leave the car.


    Julian immediately gave chase, but he found himself in the crosshairs of a sniper. To evade the bullets, he and his driver took cover behind a rear-ended sedan. He then called the police and notified Kallum.


    Kallum was initially in a meeting.


    Some members of the Fairchild family, unaware of Kallum''s situation, disagreed with his decision to openly confront Horatio. They argued that such actions would instill fear in other friendly families. After all, a swift and total annihtion following a S disagreement would undoubtedly raise rm, wouldn''t it?


    Kallum huffed, "If it was only me who got hurt, I might have let it slide. But because of the scare at the Ingram family, Callie came back bleeding non-stop, resulting in a miscarriage! This is a grudge I simply can''t ignore!" Upon hearing that Calista had miscarried, many people fell silent. Some even felt a sense of relief. With Calista''s miscarriage, would Kallum still want her? Could this represent an opportunity?


    At that moment, a jarring ringtone sounded. As Kallum answered the call, hisplexion changed immediately.


    "What did you say?"


    Once again, several gunshots rang out. The sniper was aiming for the vehicle''s tires, which was where Calista was located. Realizing what they intended to do, Calista remained calm and hastily crawled forward.

 Chapter 376 Find Her Quickly

    With one press of the elerator, the car''s speed surpassed the one behind it.


    Unfortunately, a bullet finally found its mark at that moment, puncturing her left tire. The car swerved slightly, and the vehicle behind collided with hers once again. The impact caused Calista to hit her head violently on the windshield, causing blood to trickle down. Although her tires were puncture-proof, the blowout significantly affected their stability. So, at this point, outpacing the car behind her was no longer feasible. Consequently, she stomped hard on the brakes and yanked up the handbrake.


    The tires screeched against the pavement, a grating sound that pierced the air. With the forceful push from the car behind, sparks flew from the rear tires of the vehicle Calista was in.


    Calista''s heart pounded in her chest. She knew very well that she couldn''t let herself be taken away. There could be a trap waiting for her ahead. She was certain that Kallum woulde to rescue her soon. She just needed to hang on a little longer, just a little longer. However, her hope was extremely slim. The deadlock between the two vehicles resulted in the snipers focusing their fire on the windshield in front of Calista. Startled, Calista watched as countless spiderweb-like cracks instantly spread across the windshield in front of her, threatening to shatter at any moment.


    D*mn it!


    Calista nced at the slope beside her, about four to five meters high, and decided to risk it all.


    Suddenly, she released the handbrake and stepped on the gas. The car behind her assumed she was trying to escape and quickly elerated to catch up. However, at that moment, Calista made a sharp turn, unexpectedly veering toward the slope on the left. Due to a blown tire, her left turn was remarkably swift. Coupled with the elerating car behind her, it significantly knocked Calista''s car off course.


    Suddenly, Calista moved aside, and the car behind her drove straight ahead.


    Calista had no time to pay attention to him. She was intent on driving up a slope that was nearly sixty degrees.


    Did the people chasing her think she had lost her mind? The slope was five meters high. Although it was slightly inclined, it was as steep as a wall due to its construction. There was no way the small car could climb it. Even if it somehow managed to, the top was covered in trees, preventing her from driving on.


    If it had been an ordinary car, Calista would never have attempted such a thing. But her car was powerful, so it should be able to make it.


    Initially, the car that was tailing her snapped back to reality. In a rush, it reversed to hit her, preventing her from climbing.


    At the most critical moment, Calista floored the elerator. The car lunged forward, and incredibly, it made it.


    The sniper pursuing her adjusted his aim and fired at her. Amidst the gunshot and the almost deafening roar of her car''s straining engine, Calista''s vehicle miraculously managed to climb up a five-meter high slope.


    Atst, there was a sharp, shattering noise. The windshield turned into countless fragments, hurling toward her. In a split second, the car had climbed to the top of the slope.


    At that moment, the car that had been relentlessly pursuing her arrived. Calista, shielding her eyes with one hand, braced herself forward with the other.


    Without her stepping on the gas, the car immediately flipped backward while Calista managed to kick off the hood, swiftly diving into a forest five meters off the ground.


    The vehicle mmed down fiercely, crashing into the car that had been relentlessly pursuing her, causing both vehicles to explode simultaneously.


    Amidst the intense booming sounds, Calista took advantage of the bamboo cover, swiftly dashing toward the heart of the mountain!


    "D*mn it! She managed to escape even from this? Chase her, quick!"


    Several shadows focused on Calista, refusing to let go. Thankfully, Calista was always light on her feet and quick to react. Otherwise, she really wouldn''t have been a match for them.


    At that moment, Calista''s face and the back of her hands were marred with various shades of blood stains. It was a sight that could make


    ??? (


    819


    anyone''s heart skip a beat at a nce. She was well aware that her blood was not something pleasant. In haste, she took a knife, cut through the innermost piece of


    clothing, and wrapped it around her


    face.


    A loud whirring noise spiraled overhead, and Calista knew that Kallum hade to find her. However, she was closely surrounded by a group of people. In her panic, she had left her phone in the car, which made her too afraid to make any rash moves. She climbed deeper and deeper, and a vast expanse of mist appeared before her eyes. Yet, this brought a sense of relief to Calista. The presence of the mist meant she had an additionalyer of concealment.


    But as she ventured deeper, a new peril emerged. The fog, coupled with the onset of dusk, made the light progressively dimmer. The night blindness, a side effect of the K Virus she had contracted, began to take hold. In her vision, the gray fog turned into vast swathes of ck mist. She shook her head fiercely, knowing she had to find a ce to hide before she waspletely engulfed in darkness.


    She stumbled upon a site where someone had once camped. The deserted tent stirred something in her. However, the faint sound of footsteps in the distance made Calista reluctantly abandon the spot. Just before leaving, she noticed an extremely old-fashioned mobile phone on the ground.


    Without having the time to examine its capabilities, Calista swiftly picked it up and once again darted into the dense forest. Not long after she left, four men appeared at the spot. where she had been. On the clearing, there was a patch of grassless mud where her footprints were left behind. The men looked in the


    direction Calista had gone and snorted.


    "We''re not far now. We must find her before the Fairchild family does!"


    A group of people surrounded Kallum, meticulously searching from the base of the mountain upwards. This area, filled with numerous mountains, was a popr spot among the residents of Horington. It was their preferred location for rock climbing and watching the sunrise.


    So it was clear that the other party''s choice to strike on this particr route was far from coincidental; they had nned it in advance.


    They had mobilized such a significant amount of manpower and firepower to openly confront the Fairchild family. It was clear that this was Horatio''s retaliation against Kallum, a well-prepared act of revenge.


    He discerned the significance of Calista in Kallum''s heart. Hence, he sought to capture Calista as a means to threaten Kallum.

 Chapter 377 She Is That Person

    During the capture, Horatio was indifferent to whether Calista would get hurt. As long as she was still breathing, that was enough. After all, trying to bring someone in unscathed was fraught with risks. It was better to let go and give it his all. The chances of capturing her


    were higher that way.


    Moreover, Calista had been severely injured, which served to intimidate others...


    What he never expected was that the woman hepletely disregarded was the very one he had been searching for.


    After conducting his investigation, Kallum had confirmed who was responsible. Even though he was itching to confront Horatio, he chose to suppress his murderous intent in light of Calista''s safety. He then dialed Horatio''s number. Prior to this, Horatio''s condition wasn''t much better either.


    He waited anxiously, hooked up to an IV, for the Fairchild family''s response. Calista hadn''t been caught yet, which only served to fuel his impatience.


    At that moment, he received a call from his dispatched men. They informed him that due to Calista, they were now surrounded by the Fairchild family.


    Horatio narrowed his eyes. Kallum''s actions further confirmed his care for that woman. Therefore, he slowly stated, "As long as you capture that woman, Kallum won''t dare to harm you. Now, you have no way out."


    Those people thought about it. Even if they surrendered now, would the Fairchild family let them off the hook? It seemed better to capture Calista,plete the deal, and escape overseas with the money.


    With this in mind, they became even more determined in their search for her.


    Calista had initially nned to hide up in the tree, but she never anticipated that the other party would have a heat sensor in their possession.


    She was nearly captured. Luckily, the thick fog had been her saving grace, allowing her to narrowly escape death. However, her left arm had grazed a bullet.


    At that moment, she was leaning against arge tree, tending to her wounds while fiddling with the mobile phone she had found.


    Thankfully, the phone still had a battery. Unfortunately, it was discarded not only because it was incredibly outdated but also because it could no longer make calls.


    Calista made several calls, but all she could hear was the static buzz on the other end. Feeling disheartened, she faced the increasingly dark forest and the relentless pursuer intent on killing her. In her desperation, a glint of ruthlessness shed in her eyes. If they thought about messing with her, she would definitely teach them a lesson in return.


    Horatio was somewhat taken aback when he saw that Kallum was actually calling him. After a moment of thought, he leisurely answered the call.


    "Mr. Kallum, have you made up your mind?"


    When Kallum heard his words, it seemed as if his cold aura could seep through the phone.


    "Horatio, how dare you!"


    "It''s all because you refused to cooperate, Mr. Kallum. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have done this!" Horatio''s tone was heavy, clearly harboring a substantial amount of resentment.


    When Kallum was ill before, asking him for that person was akin to a death sentence. So, whether it was for his own safety or due to public opinion, Kallum would absolutely refuse to hand over the person.


    After much deliberation, Horatio decided tounch a surprise attack during the banquet. He used Kallum''s illness as leverage, forcing Kallum into a trade with him.


    However, Kallum refused.


    If Kallum had refused the deal out of fear of death, fear that he would take someone away and never return them, then though there would be resentment, it wouldn''t be as intense as it was.


    However, the blood test resultster revealed that Kallum was already cured. Regardless of how he managed to recover, it meant he no longer needed that person to sustain his life. Yet, even without needing that individual, Kallum still refused to negotiate with him, essentially pushing him toward a dead end.


    In addition to the Fairchild family abruptly pulling all their orders overnight andpletely falling out with the Ingram family, this left Horatio so furious that he couldn''t stand it any longer. That was when he came up with the idea to use Calista as a threat against Kallum.


    Horatio sneered, "Since you have no


    regard for past affections, Mr.


    Kallum, as your senior, I naturally have to take a different approach. you hand over the person now,. won''t touch Calista. Otherwise, my people will definitely catch her before you do! At that time, whether she''s severely injured or dead, I can''t guarantee..."


    Upon hearing his threat, Kallum was so angry that heughed instead. "So, you''re using Callie to force me to reveal the person who saved my life?"


    "What''s the matter? Is she not worthy of your saving? It seems like your feelings for this girl are not as deep as I thought."


    Kallumughed at his pitiful state. "Why don''t you consider the possibility that Calista is that person?"


    "That''s impossible!" Horatio


    instinctively retorted, "Don''t try to


    deceive me know there''s a mysterious old man in your family who''s highly skilled in medicine Even you''re trying to trick me, don''t treat me like a fool. How old is


    Calista? How could she be the one


    keeping you alive? I''m not that


    senile!"


    Kallum''s tone turned somber. "In my eyes, you''re not only confused, but you''ve also gone mad. You might have guessed why I was fine during the banquet that day. It was because I injected the antiserum in time. But, the antiserum was developed by Callie! If she could


    conquer the K Virus in just two


    years, why couldn''t she extend life?"


    Horatio''s hand, clutching the phone, gave a slight tremble.


    "Are you lying to me?"


    "You better pray that your people haven''t harmed her, because aside from her, there''s nobody else in this world who possesses such exceptional medical skills! If anything happens to her, I''ll make sure you pay tenfold!" Kallum ended the call. He knew Horatio was desperate to live, and he would surely call back his men. However...


    Kallum stared at the vast mountain before him, but where on earth was Calista? The night was fast approaching, and once it fell, he couldn''t see her. What if she encountered danger? Indeed, he should have equipped her with a radar.

 Chapter 378 Keep On Running

    Four snipers, guns in hand, had been searching for several hours and were starting to feel the fatigue. Furthermore, the mountain was shrouded in heavy fog. If they couldn''t find their target before nightfall, they would be forced to retreat. At that moment, Roger, the person leading abruptly halted.


    "What''s wrong?" someone asked.


    "Look, isn''t that the clothes of that woman?"


    Several people looked over, and on the grass, a blood-stained white garment was quite conspicuous. It was evidence that Calista was somewhere nearby.


    "She''s injured and has been running for so long. She must be exhausted by now. Let''s split up and search and use this ce as our base. We have to find her; otherwise, we won''t be able to leave!"


    They nodded and promptly took action. Roger pondered for a moment before walking toward the blood-stained fabric.


    But suddenly, he tripped over something underfoot. There was a gush of wind, and a branch, bent to its limit, sprung up fiercely. In the fog, a sharpened branch shot straight toward his face.


    In a split second, he tilted his head, narrowly avoiding the fatal blow, but he let out a wail, clutching his left eye.


    Even though he managed to dodge in time, the branch still mercilessly gouged out one of his eyes.


    It wasn''t entirely gouged out, but a deep gash had been shed across his left eye, leaving it a bloody mess. Roger, with only one good eye left, looked at his blood-soaked hand and let out a heart-wrenching scream that echoed throughout the forest. "Ahh! Calista, I''m going to kill you!"


    At that moment, Calista was not far off. Hearing his anguished screams, she let out a somewhat cruelugh.


    "Roger! How are you?"


    The other three individuals hurriedly gathered around. In the dim light, the vivid red blood trickled down through the man''s fingers. His hands were trembling, and he was grinding his teeth in extreme pain. Someone quickly brought out medicine to bandage him up, but at that moment, his phone rang.


    Upon hearing the sound, Roger seethed with anger. He still managed to answer the call despite his intense pain. On the other end, the anxious voice of Horatio came through.


    "The terms of our deal have changed. I''ll still give you the money, but you must not touch a hair on Calista''s head. If anything happens to her, you won''t receive anything. Do you understand?" While Horatio was still shouting into the phone, a cold smirk had already formed on Roger''s face.


    His eyes were still bleeding. Had he not dodged swiftly, he might have been dead by now. Now he''s asking me not to touch a single hair on Calista''s head? What kind of sick joke is he making? Not receiving any assurance, Horatio roared again, "Did you hear me? I want Calista! Bring her back to me in one piece!"


    Rogerughed bitterly, covering his eye. "You expect me to bring her back to you? In one piece? Dream on! I want her dead! Do you hear me? I want her dead!"


    After he finished speaking, he flung his phone onto the ground. With each shout, he stomped forcefully on it.


    "Die! Die! Die!"


    "Roger! Roger! Calm down... What do we do now?"


    "What else can we do? Find her, and kill her!"


    Bearing immense pain, Roger


    quickly bandaged his injured eye, which had been gouged and was undoubtedly ruined. His current, most burning desire was to find Calista and exact his revenge by taking her eyes in return.


    His subordinate hesitated slightly. "But-"


    Before he could finish his sentence, he was brutally punched by Roger. His facial expression contorted, clearly due to the excruciating pain. He was on the verge ofpletely losing his sanity. "I''ll say it one more time!"


    His remaining eye was filled with bloodshot streaks, and the flesh on his face trembled uncontrobly. His voice was chillingly cold.


    "I want her dead!"


    They searched in the mountains. The deeper Calista ran, the broader their search area became. Even if there were thousands of people looking for her, it was still like finding a needle in a haystack. Calista found her vision gradually blurring. She had no choice but to seek a more open space, somewhere with fewer trees. Perhaps reaching the highest point would be better.


    With this belief, Calista made her way to the top of the mountain. The dimness of her sight caused her to stumble and falter, leaving behind a trail of marks.


    Thankfully, the four individuals who were searching for Calista had yet to find her when they were intercepted by Kallum''s men. After a fierce battle, only Roger who was blind in one eye managed to escape, but not without acquiring fresh injuries.


    This wasn''t about the mission anymore. Had he not lost sight in one eye, he wouldn''t have been in such a pitiful state. He was desperate to get rid of Calista, no matter the cost.


    Torches were scattered everywhere,


    and people were calling her name.


    But Calista couldn''t discern who


    they were. She feared that those


    calling her were the ones out to kill her, soshe chose not to respond. She was single-mindedly making her way toward the mountain peak when a piercing mountain wind suddenly blew, causing her to halt


    abruptly.


    By then, she could no longer see clearly. It was as if her vision was shrouded in patches of ck fog. However, the wind gave her a sense that danger was lurking ahead. "Hehehe... Run! Keep on running!"


    A menacing voice echoed. Calista turned around only to see a tall silhouette.

 Chapter 379 Freeze To Death

    Roger had exerted a great deal of effort to catch up. Seeing that Calista had reached a cliff and had nowhere else to run, he felt a sudden surge of relief. It seemed as if his eyes weren''t hurting as much anymore.


    He advanced step by step. In Calista''s ears, she distinctly heard the sound of a handgun being cocked.


    Am I going to die?


    The chilly fog had long since soaked her clothes, its coldness piercing her bones. Yet at that moment, she was enveloped by a killing intent that was even colder.


    It was undeniably a critical moment, yet Calista''s heart remained steady, and her breathing was slow and calm. She could hear someone calling her name, but the sound seemed distant. She also heard the man''s heavy, hurried breathing, which indicated he was likely exhausted as well.


    With a calm demeanor, Calista asked, "Who are you? Who sent you? Why do you want to kill me?"


    Roger hadn''t expected that Calista, even at death''s door, would remain soposed. He sneered, "You have the audacity to ask?"


    The bandage over his eye was already soaked with blood. It trickled down in a scarlet stream that resembled tears of blood. At that moment, he looked as terrifying as a demon from hell, a sight unfortunately unseen by Calista.


    A gust of wind blew, carrying with it the scent of blood. She surmised that he must have been injured by a hidden weapon earlier, and the wound seemed rather serious.


    It''s a shame. Why didn''t he die?


    "Why can''t I ask? Even as death looms, can''t I at least seek rity?"


    Upon hearing her words of self-surrender, Roger gave a coldugh. He put away his gun and drew a knife instead.


    "Since you seem to be clueless, allow me to enlighten you! Once I gouge out your eyes, you''ll understand exactly what you did wrong!"


    Eyes? Could he be blind in one eye? If so, I might just stand a chance! Calista thought.


    Roger steadily advanced. The tip of the knife was nearly upon her when suddenly, Calista made a move.


    Roger hadn''t expected Calista to be so skilled. However, he was no amateur himself. Quick as a sh, he managed to block the stealthy attack Calistaunched from the right.


    There was a distinct sound of bones cracking as he twisted Calista''s hand. It was contorted into a grotesque shape.


    Such excruciating pain would be unbearable to any human, yet Calista managed to maintain a clear mind at this critical moment. Cold sweat soaked her forehead. She deduced that her opponent was blind in his right eye. Ignoring the pain in her captured left hand, she once againunched an attack from the man''s left side.


    Roger hadn''t anticipated that Calista, even with a broken hand, wouldn''t pause in her actions. She plunged a needle mercilessly into the left side of his neck. His body instantly felt a wave of numbness.


    The man panicked. D*mn it!


    In the next moment, Calista took a step forward but what she hadn''t anticipated was that because she couldn''t see clearly, her aim was Ideally, her move would have paralyzed him for a few seconds. However, at this critical moment, he surprisingly regained consciousness and pulled her with force.


    Calista was taken aback. Suddenly, the ground beneath her gave way and she tumbled down.


    When everyone had scoured the mountain from foot to peak without finding anyone, Kallum finally panicked. However, he told himself that there was no way Horatio could have harmed Callie after receiving the call. So where had things gone wrong?


    The three snipers were brought


    before Kallum. Faced with the


    vtile man who held their lives in his hands, one of them stuttered, "Calista blinded the boss in one eye, so... even if the client wanted to change the terms of the deal, the boss wouldn''t listen... He said he


    wanted... to kill her!"


    Kallum felt a jolt in his heart. "You''re saying the one who ran off is your leader?"


    "Yes... He used to be an ace mercenary... because..."


    "D*mn it!" Kallum exploded, abruptly standing up. He hadn''t anticipated such a sudden turn of events. If Horatio''s people wouldn''t listen to him, what would happen to Callie?


    "Mr. Kallum, we''ve already searched the entire mountain. Searching again would be pointless."


    "You must have missed a few spots. Are you suggesting that two grown individuals just vanished into thin air?"


    Faced with Kallum''s interrogation, someone stuttered, "There''s... one ce we haven''t searched yet."


    "Where?"


    "Down the cliff..."


    When Calista woke up, she was a bit dazed. She looked around, only to find herself engulfed in darkness. She was unable to see anything.


    Beside hery a body, somewhat chilled to the touch. It was then that Calista realized it was this man who had served as her shield, allowing her to narrowly escape danger. But where am I? Calista, careful as if she were blind, felt around and realized she was on a ledge. She was certain she wasn''t at the bottom of a cliff, for even with someone breaking her fall, she would have surely died.


    She spected that she was somewhere midway up the cliff. As for the exact location, she couldn''t see or discern it.


    Calista reached out, searching the man''s lifeless body. Unfortunately, the man''s phone had long been smashed by him. Aside from the gun, his clothes were torn and tattered. After some thought, Calista decided to cast the body off, testing the depth of the cliff.


    She only had one usable hand. Cautiously, she nudged the body toward the edge, delivering the final kick that sent it over. It was only after a while, amidst the howling wind, that she heard the thud of the body hitting the ground. This sent a chill down her spine.


    She was positioned in the middle of


    the cliff, on a protruding rock that was merely about ten square meters in size. The surface was barren, devoid of any vegetation or anything else Spending a night in such a


    ie''


    ce could potentially make her stok. She could even freeze to death.

 Chapter 380 What If They Really Die

    The wind in the gorge was so fierce, a testament to the extremely narrow gaps between the mountains. Even if Kallum wanted to pick her up by helicopter, it probably couldn''tnd. And besides, she had nothing with her to contact him. For a moment, Calista felt as if she was backed into a corner.


    Had she died when she first fell, perhaps it wouldn''t have mattered. But now, she was alive, yet forced to wait for death''s slow approach. This ignited a powerful will to survive within her, and she began to resist. Regardless, her immediate concern was figuring out how to get through the night.


    Calista shifted slightly, intending to move closer to the cliff face, hoping to find a spot somewhat sheltered from the wind. However, as soon as she moved, the rock beneath her unexpectedly shifted a tiny bit too.


    Countless tiny pebbles tumbled down, creating a soft rustling sound. Calista''s entire body tensed up, and she didn''t dare to breathe. She realized that the rock she was on seemed to be embedded into the mountain, and now, i I had be loose. Kallum doubled his manpower, instructing them to continue their search throughout the mountain. Despite his reluctance, he still led the team to the base of the cliff.


    Quintus prayed inwardly, hoping desperately not to stumble upon anything they shouldn''t see. Otherwise, they would surely be doomed.


    Hundreds of people were searching beneath the cliff. In the darkness, Kallum''s mind began to fill with ominous thoughts, causing his heart to sink bit by bit.


    No, it can''t be. It''s impossible! How could Callie just be gone like that? She must still be on the mountain, perhaps hiding in some cave, waiting for me to rescue her. It must be so!


    Calista was stiff all over, facing the relentless cold wind that kept hitting her. She moved extremely carefully, bit by bit. When her back finally touched the cliff face, she let out a long sigh of relief, curled up, and hugged herself into a ball.


    In the darkness and solitude, teetering on the edge, Calista found herself sitting here, feeling as though she had been abandoned by the entire world. It was as if she was perched on the edge of the universe, or perhaps already in the midst of the apocalypse.


    In the wind, tiny pebbles fell from the crevices beneath her, plummeting down the cliffside and echoing faintly. It was as if she was perched on an hourss, each diminishing stone a ticking countdown. For the first time, Calista despised her acute hearing, which allowed her to hear the sound of her life slipping away so clearly.


    Perhaps she would plummet down along with this boulder in an hour, several hours, or just a few minutes. When time became an exceedingly raremodity, and death was looming over her, what would she think about?


    Calista hadn''t anticipated any of this. She didn''t have time to dwell on the past. All she could do was to ensure she remained still, not giving up and not struggling, just to prolong her existence as much as possible.


    She knew she didn''t want to sumb to death. At that moment, she couldn''t afford to wallow in sorrow. All she could do was repeatedly remind herself not to give up.


    Because once she gave up, she might truly be gone.


    At that moment, a brief ringtone sounded, startling Calista. It was only when she pulled out the phone that her eyes lit up with surprise. It still works?


    However, reality dealt her another


    heavy blow the phone still couldn''t


    make calls, However, it hadn''tpletely lost its functionality, as the owner of the phone had set it to automatically tune into the evening channel.


    After a moment of hesitation, Calista very carefully typed out a message in the channel. Then, holding her breath in anticipation, she watched to see if it would sessfully send.


    At that time, on the screen at the Nexus Trade Building, the popr male host was conducting the evening program-Moonlit Whispers.


    He was impably dressed in a suit, with an earpiece in ce. Through the screen of the Nexus Trade Building, it seemed as if he had the entire city at his feet.


    This was the most popr evening channel in Horington. It was just that Calista was unaware of it.


    The host, Zeke Barker, was captivating the audience with his enchanting voice as he started the show. Meanwhile, thements section below the screen was already brimming with messages.


    Zeke chuckled to himself. Just as he was about to speak, his attention was suddenly caught by ament that shed by. "Slow down, darlings, I think I just missed something important."


    The instant Zeke''s melodious voice echoed from the phone, Calista stopped breathing. She had sessfully sent the message.


    Immediately, her fingers flew across the screen, as she hastily crafted another message. But once again, it was swallowed up in the vast sea ofments.


    She felt somewhat disheartened and


    quickly tried to send a message to


    Kallum. However, after sheposed the message, it was perpetually stuck on "sending." other words, she couldn''t make calls or send texts. She could only ess the voice channel.


    Calista was somewhat hesitant. The persistent low battery warning beeping from the phone indicated that she didn''t have time to fiddle with this antique device. Biting the bullet, she once again tuned into the evening channel.


    Zeke once again saw that message and furrowed his brows. He highlighted the key part of the message, making it visible for everyone to see.


    It read: I am Calista Stafford! I am going to end my life!


    Thements section immediately exploded.


    Netizen A: Who is Calista? Another attention seeker, I presume?


    Netizen B: Go meet your end somewhere else. Don''t interrupt Zeke''s show!


    Netizen C: It''s better if we ask. What if they really die?


    Zeke also found himself in a tricky situation. If he didn''t inquire further and a life was lost, he knew it would be hard to avoid responsibility.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 381 It Is Quite Simple

    He cleared his throat twice and said, "Given the unexpected circumstances, let''s skip the formalities tonight and dive straight into the main topic! First, let''s connect with this friend named Calista to see what troubles she might be facing." He indicated for the director to connect Calista''s call, but after the director tried, the screen disyed a signal error.


    Upon seeing this, Zeke remarked with a hint of puzzlement, "I would love to help this person out, but she can''t seem to answer my calls."


    Netizen D: If you can''t get through, just skip it and move on to the next one!


    Netizen E: Call me, Zeke! I''ve been dumped today. I''m feeling terrible...


    Upon seeing the situation, Calista sent a message in a somewhat hurried manner.


    It read: I''m in a unique situation right now. I can only type. Please help me broadcast a message to a certain individual. If he doesn''te, I''ll die!


    Calista''s words were drowned out by the flood ofments, yet they were spotted by Zeke. He highlighted them once more, pondered over it, and tentatively asked, "What would you like me to say on your behalf?"


    After a moment of thought, Calista sent a message: Kallum Fairchild, I''m somewhere in the middle of the cliff. I''m not sure of my exact location, but I''m about to fall. It might be an hour, or it could be just a few minutes.


    Although Zeke found it strange, he still recited the sentence. As he did so, he felt something was off. Kallum Fairchild... Why does the name sound so familiar?


    Beneath the cliff, within the dense forest, a group of people gathered. They let out a long sigh of relief, for they had only discovered the body of Roger, not Calista''s.


    "Mr. Kallum, this man died from a fall. There''s no doubt that the silver needle on his neck belongs to Ms. Calista."


    Kallum asked in a cold tone, "So, we''re sure that Callie is all right?"


    At that moment, Quintus snatched a piece of fabric from Roger''s hand. After a quick nce, he cried out in shock, "Mr. Kallum, this appears to be the fabric from the clothes Ms. Calista wore today..."


    The atmosphere, which had slightly eased, plummeted to freezing point. If he had dragged Calista down with him before he died...


    Kallum felt as if his heart was being tightly gripped.


    "Keep searching!" His voice was hoarse, as if he was struggling to breathe. "We must find her!"


    Everyone quickly dispersed, conducting a thorough search throughout the forest.


    Yet Kallum felt a chill creeping into his hands and feet, rendering him unable to take a single step.


    No way! If this person had dragged Callie down with him, then... Callie... should be nearby.


    Kallum was terrified every time someone called out to him. He was afraid that they would say they had found her.


    ""Mr. Kallum!"


    The excitement in Levi''s voice made Kallum''s heart jolt.


    "Mr. Kallum! Quick, take a look at this. There''s news from Ms. Calista!"


    Kallum was overjoyed. He snatched the phone from his hands. It was a video. As soon as he started ying it, he heard the host''s voice.


    "Kallum Fairchild, I''m somewhere in the middle of the cliff. I''m not sure of my exact location, but I''m about to fall. It might be an hour, or it could be just a few minutes." Callie is still alive!


    Kallum lifted his gaze to the towering mountain cliff before him, his eyes brimming with excitement. Callie is still alive! She''s unharmed!


    But we''re at Narrow Sky Gorge! How am I supposed to find her in the darkness and rescue her?


    Kallum was getting anxious. He quickly asked Levi, "Can we trace where Callie''s message came from?"


    Levi said, "The location shows it''s on a cliff, but the exact position is unclear."


    Kallum furrowed his brow. "How can I possibly reach her? I need to talk to her!"


    Levi hesitated slightly. "All right, let me get in touch with the radio station. Since Ms. Stafford is able to connect to the radio, then we can definitely use that to find her!"


    While Zeke was hosting the


    program, a call suddenly came through to the switchboard. After the person on the other end of the line revealed their identity, the station manager cleaned his ears, speechless for a moment.


    "M-Mr. Kallum?" The station manager, a woman, was initially puzzled when Calista mentioned seeking Kallum. She just found the name vaguely familiar because not just anyone could call him by his full name.


    It wasn''t until she received this phone call that she remembered who Kallum was. He was one of the most sought-after bachelors in the entire country.


    She let out a silent scream. When she spoke again, her voice inexplicably dropped an octave.


    "Mr. Kallum... why-"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Kallum cut her off, "The woman who just mentioned suicide on the show is my fianc¨¦e. She''s in great danger right now, but the radio is the only way I can reach her. Is I there any way I could take over from your host to talk to her?"


    The spirit of gossip was burning inside the station manager. What did I just hear? Mr. Kallum''s fianc¨¦e wants tomit suicide? Good heavens The Fairchild family had been low-key for generations, never involved in any scandals. Today, such a huge piece of news hadnded on her, leaving her feeling dizzy. Yet, she managed to speak in a calm manner.


    "It''s quite simple! You just need to call our host. As long as your fianc¨¦e is tuning in to our program right now, she''ll be able to hear your voice!"

 Chapter 382 Do Not Be Scared

    "Is there really no other way?" Kallum didn''t want this matter to be public knowledge.


    The station manager was resolute. "This is the fastest way!"


    Upon hearing the word "fastest," Kallum immediately gave in. Hence, Zeke, who was originallyforting a heartbroken boy, was abruptly cut off by the producer.


    As he was left in confusion, his assistant handed him a piece of paper. After he read the content, his eyes lit up. Had he not been on camera, he would have definitely let out a shriek.


    He took a three-second pause to collect himself before clearing his throat. Facing the camera, he said with fervor, "Due to an unusual circumstance, we''re breaking into our regr programming with a special announcement. We have a friend whose fianc¨¦e is currently stranded on a mountain. For certain unique reasons, he can only reach her through this radio station. In the spirit of humanity, we''re dedicating the rest of our time to this anxious fianc¨¦ and won''t be taking any other calls. We appreciate your understanding!"


    At that time, Calista hadn''t touched the phone to save battery. But upon hearing the host''s excited voice, she quickly turned up the volume, which was previously set to the lowest level.


    The call connected swiftly, and an all too familiar male voiceced with urgency echoed.


    "Callie! Can you hear me?"


    It''s Kallum! Kallum hase to find me!


    Kallum cutting in line caused a wave of dissatisfaction in thements section. Unfortunately, the radio station couldn''t block them; otherwise, they wouldn''t receive any updates from Calista.


    Calista suppressed her somewhat frantic heartbeat and firmly typed out: I''m here.


    At that moment, as he caught sight of her fleeting response, Kallum''s eyes instantly reddened, as if he was moved to tears by sheer joy.


    "Callie..." His voice was somewhat hoarse. "Do you remember where you fell from?"


    For some unknown reason, Calista felt a sting in her eyes. She held the phone, shaking her head and biting her lip as she typed out: I don''t know. By the time I reached the peak, I could no longer see anything. I was led down by the person who wanted to kill me. Now, I''m on a ledge halfway up the mountain, but the boulder is loose. I might fall off any moment now.


    A pang of anxiety gripped Kallum''s heart when he read that.


    "Don''t be afraid. I''ming to save you right now. Trust me, I promise I''ll rescue you!"


    Perhaps it was because of the urgency in Kallum''s voice that everyone could sense his unease. Gradually, the murmurs of discussion started to fade.


    At this moment, the host said, "The


    girl who found herself in danger might have a broken phone and could onlymunicate with us through typing on our radio station. Everyone, please refrain from flooding the screen with messages, soas not to miss any updates from


    her."


    The number of people in thements section gradually dwindled. It wasn''t like before when Calista''s words would instantly vanish as soon as they were typed out.


    Thements section was quiet, but the audience in front of their televisions, radios, mobile phones, andputers were in an uproar. The official website and social media pages were flooded withments. Netizen F: Is this a publicity stunt? It must be. How could it be possible for a phone to be unable to make calls or send messages, yet still connect to the radio?


    Netizen G: There''s a possibility. It could be Ovam''s senior-friendly phone. That particr series of phones is essentially a radio, so even if it can''t make calls or send


    text messages, it can still tune into


    radio channels. But I think that


    model has been discontinued, hasn''t it?


    Netizen H: The girl is trapped halfway up the cliff and is on the verge of falling? Good heavens, someone needs to save her quickly!


    Voices of this kind were growing in number, and the level of attention was skyrocketing. The station manager was amazed to find that their channel''s viewership was about to reach a new record high. Previously, Jarrett had been persistently helping Kallum in his search for Calista. When he saw that Kallum had finally managed to reach her, he breathed a sigh of relief and led his team down from the mountain. "What do we do now? Even though she''s somewhere nearby, the helicopter can''tnd in such a narrow space. We''re at an altitude of over two thousand meters. How can we pinpoint her exact location?" Since Calista was in grave danger, they had to pinpoint her exact location to find her as quickly as possible, so there was no time for any dilly-dallying.


    "Let''s resort to the most basic method! Do we have the acoustic sensor? Use the principle of sound wave reflection to locate that ledge. The body is here, so she shouldn''t be far off!"


    The conversation between Kallum


    and Jarrett was transmitted through the radio station and reached Calista''s phone. She felt inexplicably reassured, knowing that someone was working hard to rescue her. All she needed to do was wait a little longer.


    However, it seemed as if fate was against her. Suddenly, she felt the boulder beneath her loosen a bit, the tiny pebbles rolling down like rainfall once again. Her face turned pale in an instant. She realized her time was running out. Fearing that Calista might be scared, Kallum directed others while conversing with her.


    "Callie, don''t be scared. We''ll find you soon. Narrow Sky Gorge is not that big. We''ll be there soon. Don''t be scared!"


    Although he was trying tofort her, his voice steady, one could tell he was so nervous that he was speaking incoherently. It was unclear whether he wasforting Calista or reassuring himself when he told her not to be scared. At that moment, Calista was pressed tightly against the cliff face, hardly daring to breathe. It was only when the pebbles stopped falling that she finally exhaled a long breath. By then, her forehead was already slick with cold sweat.

 Chapter 383 I Will Die With You

    Her hand had gone numb from the biting cold wind, yet when she heard Kallum''s voice, she managed to type out: I''m not scared. You shouldn''t be either!


    A pang of sorrow abruptly struck Kallum''s heart. He pursed his lips tightly to maintain hisposure.


    The sky had turned dark, rendering everything invisible. Aside from the faint glow of the phone, the surrounding was engulfed in pitch ck. The ledge beneath held the threat of a fatal fall should it give way.


    How could she possibly not be scared?


    How could he possibly not be scared?


    Fearing that his own apprehension would affect Calista, Kallum took a deep breath and said with an exceptionally resolute tone, "Callie, you''ll be all right!" He forced himself tough a bit, his tone light and breezy. "I''m right below you. We''re very close. Trust me!" Even though the words were meant to be light-hearted, they somehow choked up the more sensitive listeners, leaving them feeling overwhelmed.


    This man, who was previously so nervous that he couldn''t articte his thoughts properly, was now feigningposure so as not to frighten the girl.


    At that moment, they all wished for the man to find the girl swiftly. They desperately hoped that she would be all right.


    The altitude of Narrow Sky Gorge was high, so even though Calista was only a dozen or so meters away from them, using wave measurement to pinpoint her exact location still took time. Kallum was anxious, his heart burning with worry. Had it not been for the strong winds in the gorge preventing the drone from taking off, he wouldn''t have been so concerned.


    Calista couldn''t help but let out a soft gasp. She distinctly felt the boulder beneath her feet slip.


    The surface, originally t, had started to tilt slightly downward. Her heart felt as if it was about to leap out of her chest. Yet, her mind had never been so clear.


    After she steadied herself, she suddenly typed out: I have a way for you to find me.


    Kallum felt something was off. If Calista had a solution, she wouldn''t have waited until now to speak up. Nheless, he still asked, "What''s your n?"


    Swallowing nervously, Calista slowly rose to her feet, pressing her back against the cliff face. She took a deep breath before replying: Before, I was afraid to use the gun as the slightest noise could cause the rocks to tumble down. But now, the rocks have already started to loosen! I don''t have much time left... Set the acoustic sensor to receive mode. I''m about to fire the gun!


    "No!" Kallum said urgently. "Given your current state, firing a gun will only hasten the loosening of the rocks!"


    Calista: There''s no faster method than this.


    Kallum was distraught. He instructed someone to switch the acoustic sensor to receiving mode, then said fervently, "There must be another way. There has to be!" Calista: Kallum!


    Kallum''s gaze hardened.


    Calista: I believe you can find me in the shortest time possible ande to my rescue, right?


    Calista: Right?


    At that moment, it didn''t feel like they were separated by two phones and a radio station. It was as if they were face to face, she at the foot of the cliff and he at the top. His pounding heart found a moment of peace suddenly.


    After a while, which was actually just a fleeting moment, Kallum said, "Right, I''ll find you in the shortest time possible."


    Calista smiled with a pale


    expression. She took out the gun and looked at the pitch-ck night before her, suddenly not so afraid anymore because the faint light in her hand was her only connection to the world.


    Before she pulled the trigger, she paused and typed out: If I fall after the gunshot, you must live on well.


    "No!" Kallum shouted into his phone. "No way! Calista, if you die, I will not live on well! I absolutely won''t!"


    His voice was hoarse and strained, clearly filled with extreme fear. Many female listeners couldn''t help but cry, yet Calista found herselfughing.


    Her muscles had considerably


    rxed, and it seemed as though


    her fingers regained some sensation as she replied yfully: Judging by the sound of your voice, I can tell how frustrated you are. You''ve never been known for your patience or t¨¦mper, but... to me, it''s nothing


    short of a miracle.


    "Don''t you dare utter such bizarre words again!" Kallum''s eyes were bloodshot as he spoke through gritted teeth. "Stop talking! At the sound of the gunshot, I will find you and bring you home!"


    Calista pursed her lips and smiled.


    Calista: You know what? I wasn''t scared at all before, but when I saw how much you cared, I suddenly became afraid.


    Kallum''s heart was gripped by her words.


    "You don''t have to be afraid," he said, his Adam''s apple bobbing as if he was trying to suppress a choke. "If you fall, I''ll be there to catch you."


    Calista: Then you''ll be hit by a stone first.


    "I''ll die with you so that you won''t be afraid!"


    Hearing his casual yet solemn tone, Calista knew he wasn''t joking.


    She suddenly felt that the objects in her arms, whether it was the gun or the phone, felt as heavy as a thousand pounds.


    In reality, they weren''t far apart. As long as Kallum found Roger''s body, he should be near her. However, the gorge was too high, too long, and too dark. They couldn''t pinpoint her §Ö location and didn''t dare to act recklessly. She was running out of time. If they acted without nning, what awaited her was certain death.


    Her only option was to fire a shot, letting Kallum pinpoint her location. But firing a shot might only hasten her demise.

 Chapter 384 That Is Unbelievably Risky

    Sensing Calista''s hesitation, Kallum cast his gaze toward the darkness overhead. His voice was so soft as he said, "Don''t give me any of that nonsense about living well... I used to harbor a wicked thought, that if I were to die, could I possibly take you down with me? Isn''t it terrible of me to harbor such thoughts? You''ve been so supportive, yet here I am with these intentions. So now, to make things fair, if you die, I''ll join you. If you still want me to live, then take care of yourself." In the howling wind, Calista could barely make out his words. Yet, she felt such a profound ache in her chest, such a swelling sensation, as if something was on the verge of spilling out.


    Once again, the fine sand slipped away, jolting Calista awake. She had no time for hesitation.


    Taking a deep breath, she typed out a message and even added an emoji.


    Calista: For the sake of your well-being, I have no choice but to stay alive begrudgingly.


    Outside the radio station, many who saw her message couldn''t help butugh through their tears. Meanwhile, Kallum''s lips curved slightly upward. His gaze was resolute as he looked up at the sky. Bang!


    The echo of a gunshot reverberated through the gorge, acting like a signal, stirring everyone into action.


    "The measurements are in. Seventy meters to the southeast, at a height of one thousand seven hundred meters above ground!"


    Atst, her exact location was found.


    It was determined that the quickest way to rescue her was from above, as the abundance of trees below made it difficult to move around.


    Kallum took immediate action. He boarded a helicopter and flew directly above the location where Calista was, ready to rescue her.


    At that moment, Calista let out a soft gasp and crouched down. With the sound of her gunshot, the ledge she was on started to tremble non-stop, slowly sliding downward.


    She reached out, desperate to grasp anything within her reach, but there was nothing, only stone upon stone. Even though she could hear something thundering overhead, she simply had no time left.


    Once she fell, it would mean certain death. She didn''t want to die. She couldn''t die.


    The helicopter wobbled under the force of the wind. Quintus was about to jump down to rescue her, but he was stopped by Kallum.


    ""Let me!"


    "Mr. Kallum..."


    "Tie it on for me!"


    Everyone was at a loss. They lowered a rope, and all they could do was secure a safety buckle onto Kallum.


    Though Quintus was anxious, he gritted his teeth and gave instructions when he found himself unable to prevent the situation.


    "Mr. Kallum, we''ve already measured the height of the rope. Once you glide to the end of the rope, you''ll be able to see Ms. Stafford. You need to move slowly and steadily. Otherwise, in the strong wind, you might cause the helicopter to veer off course!" With a stern face, Kallum secured his phone to his body, ready for any unforeseen circumstances. Before he took the leap, he uttered his final words through the radio.


    "Callie, look up. I''ve tied a searchlight to my hand. You won''t be able to see anything else. Just focus on the light and reach out toward me!"


    I just have to reach out?


    Amidst the rumbling of falling rocks, Calista heard the words of Kallum. Instinctively, she looked up to find the massive boulder she was on had already tilted at a forty-five-degree angle.


    It would be toote. Even if Kallum was right above her, from the moment he spoke those words to the time he slid down, it would be absolutely toote.


    Calista''s body began to tilt, and when she started to fall, she saw a glimmer of light approaching from afar.


    Kallumpletely disregarded Quintus'' advice and leaped straight off the helicopter.


    Sliding down certainly wouldn''t have given him enough time, but jumping down was sufficient.


    At that moment, it was as if the wild wind had stilled, and the speed of her fall had paused. Calista watched as the speck of light grew closer and closer.


    In a daze, she heard someone shouting.


    "Callie! Jump!"


    Calista leaped up abruptly. She couldn''t see anything before her eyes, only a speck of white light, as dazzling as a star in the dark night. She reached out desperately toward that glimmer of light.


    The massive boulder plummeted downward with a fierce intensity, causing a chorus of shocked gasps to ripple through the crowd. Amidst the chaos, Kallum firmly grasped her hand. ""I''ve got you!"


    Calista thought she was dreaming until her right hand was tightly grasped.


    It wasn''t until the helicopter was tipped off bnce by theirbined weight, and the rope was let out to its full length, that Kallum felt a clear snap from the hand he was holding. In a hurry, he swiftly grabbed her with his other hand.


    "I''ve got you..."


    Everyone outside the radio station was holding their breath in anticipation: When the words came through the phone that was tied to Kallum''s arm amidst the howling wind countless people erupted in cheers.


    He caught her?


    How did he manage to catch her? Did he just leap down and grab her? That''s unbelievably risky!


    Right then, an ominous sound of a collision came from Kallum''s phone.


    The sudden weight of two individuals heavily skewed the course of the helicopter, causing the tail of the aircraft to carve out arge semi-circle in mid-air.


    Those who had guessed the reason


    behind themotion held their


    breath in anticipation of the final


    oue. The viewership ratings for this moment were hitting record highs, but who really cared about that? Even the station manager, hearing the howling noisesing from Kallum''s end, felt her heart tighten in anxiety.

 Chapter 385 Why Did You Let Go

    Calista''s hand was dislocated. In her attempt to grab Kallum''s hand, her phone had already slipped from her grasp.


    Even though the people on the helicopter had done their best to maintain bnce, at this point, any minor deviation could ce the two individuals at the end of the tether in a life-or-death situation. There were several instances where Calista and Kallum narrowly missed colliding with the cliff face. "Go higher, go higher!" Quintus shouted amidst the powerful gusts.


    The one piloting the helicopter didn''t have a moment to utter a single word. He wanted to ascend, but the current situation was far from easy. Those below could see the chaotic beams from the helicopter''s front searchlight in the pitch-ck night, and they broke out in a cold sweat.


    Amidst the relentless, powerful winds that seemed to never cease, Calista felt as though her insides were being shaken up. She lifted her head to look at Kallum and said abruptly, "Actually, if you just let me go, the helicopter will find its bnce again." Calista felt numbness creeping into her fingers, solely kept from falling by Kallum''s firm grip on her hand.


    Upon hearing her words, Kallum no longer had the mood to berate her for causing trouble. In order to grab her, he had to concentrate fully. At that moment, their fates were out of their hands.


    Unexpectedly, Calista loosened her grip.


    This startled Kallum so much that it made his hair stand on end.


    "What are you doing?"


    Kallum''s night vision was exceptional, and he actually saw Calista smiling. "Forget it, I don''t want to drag you down with me."


    "D*mn it! Don''t you dare let go! If you do, I''ll throw your father, your teacher, and everyone you care about down Narrow Sky Gorge!"


    "Then you should throw yourself down first."


    With a hint of helplessness, Calista closed her eyes. Although she was reluctant to admit it, whether it was love or hatred, whether they were together or not, Kallum''s presence was too overwhelming in two lifetimes, forcing her to care. "What?" The wind was too loud, and Kallum couldn''t hear clearly. But that wasn''t the point. The real issue was, his palms started to sweat, and his heartbeat suddenly quickened.


    "Hold on tight to me!"


    Calista really wanted to hold onto him tightly, and she wasn''t deliberately showing indifference toward her life. But after running for so long today and having experienced several life-threatening situations, she was simply out of energy. Seeing that Calista remained still, Kallum grew anxious. Even though the helicopter was steadily ascending, their intertwined hands had loosened by a few centimeters.


    "Calista!"


    "Kallum..." Victory seemed within reach, yet Calista felt she had already pushed herself to the limit. She yearned to grip his hand tightly, but her fingers were devoid of any sensation. Is this fate?


    A faint, pallid smile appeared on her lips.


    "There are many things I regret, many things I wish I could do over. But the one thing I don''t regret is falling for you."


    After she finished speaking, her hand rxed.


    The moment she loosened her grip, Kallum could no longer hold onto her. Even though the helicopter had already stabilized, Calista closed her eyes. In that instant, Kallum''s pupils constricted. Without a second thought, he unbuckled his safety buckle the moment Calista slipped from his fingertips.


    Calista was like a falling leaf, swiftly descending downward. The wind whipped her hair wildly about, and yet, Kallum was diving headfirst, like an arrow shooting toward her, reaching out to grasp her hand. Their hands were half a meter apart, but in mid-air, they clenched once more. Calista''s heart gave a sudden leap, and she found herself being pulled into an embrace.


    At that moment, many people found themselves holding their breath.


    The gale was tearing at their clothes like a de, and in the pitch darkness, the searchlight in Kallum''s hand fell like a shooting star, slipping from everyone''s view. Calista couldn''t see Kallum''s expression, yet she could picture it in her mind.


    "Why..."


    Kallum held her tightly.


    "There''s no why. I just did it subconsciously."


    Once he finished speaking, he tugged at the rope. In an instant, the parachute was inted to fullness by the wind. At that moment, the thousands of people below the mountain, who had initially lost all hope, erupted into cheers,


    They survived!


    Kallum had never used a parachute before. He wasn''t the type to seek thrills for the sake of it. However, when their lives hung in the bnce, and perhaps because of her, he managed to use the knowledge he had acquired in the past. At the most crucial moment, he deployed the parachute, ensuring their safending.


    Everyone cheered and ran toward the direction where they had descended. By the time they arrived, Kallum was already holding Calista under the tree.


    "Why did you let go?" Kallum was still brooding over this incident. Just a second ago, he was so scared that his heart seemed to stop beating.


    Calista let out a yawn.


    "You''re so dense. I''m a human, not a superhuman, okay? I''m exhausted."


    Calista''s voice gradually faded, and just like that, at such a heart-stopping moment, she drifted off to sleep.


    Kallum was left dumbstruck, the excessive adrenaline making him too excited. Therefore, he momentarily overlooked just how frail she had be after several near-death experiences. Everyone rushed over and was just about to scream, but they were stopped by a single nce from Kallum. He gestured toward the precious bundle in his arms, silencing everyone.

 Chapter 386 Open Your Mouth

    Everyone wore expressions of understanding. Seeing Kallum''s battered and bruised state, they quietly cheered and crowded around the two as they made their way back.


    "Did you save her?" A series of heart-stopping voices caused a pang of anxiety in everyone watching the show. Hence, the host Zeke softly posed this question on behalf of everyone. Seemingly grateful to them, Kallum whispered into the phone strapped to his arm, "Shh, she''s fallen asleep."


    With a single statement, everyone in front of the television erupted into cheers once again.


    Kallum, although unable to see it, could tell that everyone was happy for him. He didn''t seem to feel any pain in his body at that moment. He said sincerely into the phone, "Thank you all." Looking at Calista, her face marred with scars, yet sleeping so peacefully, he let out a long sigh of relief.


    "Goodnight."


    With that, he abruptly ended the call.


    This action had everyone buzzing with excitement. They were all eager to know about the rescue operation. Plus, the words they had exchanged during the crisis were so poignant that everyone was dying to interview them about their feelings at that moment. Regardless of themotion outside, Kallum remained unbothered. The Fairchild family usually refrained from public appearances. This time, it was an exception.


    Thinking back to the moment when Calista had fallen and he had undone his safety buckle without a second thought, Kallum shook his head and let out a bitterugh. Have I fallen for her so deeply that I''m willing to even sacrifice my life? When Calista woke up, she felt extremely ufortable. Her face was wrapped up like a mummy, as were her hands. Various parts of her body were bound with bandages, making her condition appear quite severe.


    "You''re awake?" Seeing Calista''s bewildered gaze upon him, Kallum suddenly thought that it might not be so bad for her to get a little hurt. At least, she would obediently stay at home and not go anywhere.


    Although Kallum had sustained injuries, they were merely minor scratches. Hence, he was now leisurely observing Calista, his eyes filled with the anticipation of an unfolding drama.


    "How am I-"


    "You have something to say?" Kallum walked over to her bedside, looking down at her with a face full of displeasure. "You managed to get yourself into this state just by stepping outside. Do I really need to keep you by my side all the time?" Kallum''s teasing words left Calista feeling a bit sulky. "My face..."


    Kallum chuckled as he bent down and lifted her chin gently. He looked at herpletely covered face, his eyes filled with an unmistakable mirth.


    "Have you forgotten that your face was scratched by ss? But it doesn''t matter. Even if you turn into a hideous creature, I still want you."


    Calista attempted to swat his hand away, only to realize that both her hands were bandaged up like bear paws.


    Her left hand had been twisted and broken, while her right hand had been dislocated by Kallum. In other words, she couldn''t even hold a needle now. She was truly rendered useless.


    Calista held up her two hands, her face obscured from view. Yet, from her slightly vacant gaze, Kallum could discern her frustration. She was simply adorable.


    He couldn''t help but lower his head, cradling her face in his hands. He pecked her lips, then boasted, "Now, I can kiss you whenever I want. Try resisting me!"


    "Kallum!" A wave of frustration welled up within Calista. How have I not noticed before that Kallum is such a shameless individual?


    Kallumughed out loud. He kissed


    her lips again, then raised an eyebrow in triumph. "You better be


    careful! After your face has been


    ruined, no one else would the


    marry you. Only a fool like me would stick by your side no matter what. If I were to leave, you''d have no one else!"


    With a forceful turn of her head, Calista dered, "I''d rather live out my days alone."


    Kallum smirked. "You''re really not cute at all with that stubborn attitude."


    After saying that, he shrugged. "But who can me me for liking it?"


    Calista chose to remainpletely silent.


    Shortly after, Shaun brought over a bowl of soup.


    "Who are you angry with? Don''t worry, your face won''t be scarred, and your wrist injury won''t affect your flexibility once it''s healed. Give it a month, and I guarantee you''ll be back in good health!" Shaun paused fora moment. "But without you, our experiment might face some dys."


    Upon seeing Shaun, Calista regained her usual cool demeanor. "Proceed with the experiments that can be conducted without me. For those that require my presence, I''ll attend to them once I''m feeling a bit better in a few days."


    "Don''t you dare go anywhere!" Kallum took the soup, his tone stern. "Do you want your hands back? You better behave and recuperate this month!"


    Calista looked at him speechlessly. "Who do you think ends up benefiting from all my overtime work?"


    Kallum was adamant. "No, even if it''s for me. Be good and take a month off. The world will still keep spinning."


    "You..."


    Seeing the two getting along well, Shaun promptly excused himself. He quietly and discreetly left the room so as not to intrude.


    "Enough with the chatter. Come on, open your mouth."


    When Kallum saw Calista raising her hands in helplessness, he was filled with immense joy.


    Left without a choice, Calista opened her mouth.


    Being fed like a baby made her feel a bit embarrassed. So, she quickened her pace of swallowing, ready to get it over with as swiftly as possible.


    Although it was just a bowl of soup, it was incredibly rich in content and tasted excellent. Calista raised her eyebrows slightly, licked her lips, and narrowed her eyes in appreciation.

 Chapter 387 I Have No Regrets

    "Is it good?" Kallum asked.


    Calista nodded, which only made Kallum''s smile even more radiant.


    "I made it!" He lifted his chiseled chin slightly. "I told you, something as trivial as cooking doesn''t pose a challenge to me!"


    Calista struggled to find the right words. "Actually, it isn''t all that good."


    Kallum''s eyebrows arched high as he stopped feeding her. "You''re lying! You just licked your lips!"


    Calista said indifferently, "It''s just a bowl of soup. Your skills are merely at a basic level."


    Kallum furrowed his brows, skeptically taking a bite.


    The taste was clearly delightful-fresh, fragrant, smooth-far surpassing what their household chef could whip up. Do I find it delicious only because I made it myself when in reality, it isn''t tasty at all? Kallum found himself lost in self-doubt.


    Calista smiled slightly, looking at him without blinking.


    "I''ll just make do with it. I''m practically starving."


    Only then did Kallum continue to feed her, albeit a bit grudgingly. "Next time, I''ll make you truffle potato gratin. I guarantee it''ll be so delicious you''ll practically swallow your tongue!"


    Truffle potato gratin was Calista''s favorite dish. She narrowed her eyes, eating without uttering a word.


    Upon seeing her lips part and close, Kallum inexplicably felt a pang of hunger.


    He sat on the edge of the bed, shifting his gaze away, then said with a hint of smugness, "Did you sayst night that you don''t regret falling in love with me?"


    Calista burst into a fit of coughing.


    When Kallum saw her choke, he immediately put down the bowl and fetched her some water. As Calista was drinking water, he frowned and patted her back. "It''s not like I''m stealing your food. How can you choke on soup? What were you thinking about?" His hand paused mid-pat on her back as he studied her.


    "You don''t regret falling in love with me?"


    Once again, Calista started coughing. She wasn''t pretending; she was really choking this time.


    Why did I blurt out such words back then? Yeah, that was what I said, but knowing Kallum''s narcissistic tendencies, he would surely misconstrue it!


    Calista wished the ground could swallow her whole, yet Kallum held her chin with one hand, forcing her to look at him.


    When Calista looked up, she found herself lost in his gaze. His eyes, clear and bright, carried a deep purple hue, reminiscent of the most mysterious gemstone. They were captivating.


    "You said you love me?"


    His voice,ced withughter, seemed toe from the horizon. It took Calista a couple of seconds to regain her senses. She shook her head vigorously, like a bobblehead doll. The way her head was spinning quickly was just too adorable. Kallum looked at her with amusement, then asked again, "When you let go, was there a moment where you thought of saving me at your own expense?"


    "No... I just couldn''t hold on."


    Calista''s heart was racing, yet her voice remained steady and serious.


    "Really?" Kallum, holding the bowl, smiled as he looked at her. "Yeah."


    Kallum let out a delightedugh. With a gaze that seemed as if it could see right through a person, he looked her over from head to toe. He asked in a calm and unhurried manner, "Why did you say you don''t regret falling for me?"


    Calista pursed her lip. "Actually, the soup is quite tasty. Can you continue feeding me? I''m really hungry."


    With a smirk ying at the corners of his mouth, Kallum offered her a spoonful of soup.


    "Why don''t you regret it?"


    Calista closed her eyes. "Are you trying to give me indigestion?"


    "I just have to know!"


    Calista bit the spoon, her long eyshes drooping down. In fact, she had once before asked herself the same question.


    When I reincarnated, why was it at the age of eighteen, and not a bit earlier, at a time when I could have changed all of my fate?


    Calista couldn''t figure it out untilst night when she unconsciously said those words.


    If fate had allowed her to return to the moment she most desired, perhaps, deep within her subconscious, she didn''t want to change a thing-meeting him, falling in love with him, all of it. Kallum asked persistently, "Are you going to tell me or not?"


    He was determined to make Calista face their rtionship head-on. After all, he had already done so many unpleasant things, so he didn''t mind doing more.


    Calista nced at him, shrinking back weakly.


    "I just felt that loving you was the happiest thing I had experienced before I became an adult. That''s why I have no regrets. Are you happy now?"


    Kallum''s eyes sparkled.


    Suppressing his excitement, he asked softly, "Even then, when I gave you no response, you still... don''t regret it?"


    Calista rolled her eyes at him. But perhaps due to the fact that she had been saved twice by Kallum yesterday, she found their interaction much more rxed than before.


    "Back then, I was rather naive. Even


    if you didn''t reciprocate, I was willing to do anything for you, be it brewing wine or preparing a lunch box. As


    long as it''s something done for the person I like, I feel content.


    ¦«¦¯


    Therefore, I have no regrets"


    Hearing Calista articte each and every word so clearly, Kallum felt an irresistible urge to spin her around in his arms.


    The corner of his mouth curled


    upward as he continued to feed her, and a glint of something


    indiscernible flickered in his eyes et ?


    leaving one to wonder what


    thoughts were running through his mind. ,

 Chapter 388 Spare My Children

    The air seemed to be filled with a unique energy that inexplicably lifted Kallum''s spirits. Calista finished her meal quickly and was just about to send him away when he cradled her face and nted a forceful kiss on her. "Callie, you''re right. Doing anything for someone you love is a joy. Even if she doesn''t reciprocate my feelings, I still find happiness in it!"


    Calista found herselfpelled to meet his gaze. As she looked into his bright eyes, her heart inexplicably raced again.


    Kallum said with a smile, "Of course, I''m a bit of a greedy person. If the one I like epts my good intentions, I will be even happier."


    Suddenly, he called out her name, "Callie! I won''t give up pursuing you. Does that cause you more distress, or does it bring you more joy?"


    "Of course it causes me more distress!" Calista responded without a second thought.


    Suddenly, Kallum ced a hand on her chest, feeling her heartbeat racing faster than usual. Under Calista''s startled gaze, he said with utmost seriousness, "But your heartbeat is so fast. You''re lying to me." Calista quickly covered her chest, ring at him.


    ""You''re shameless!"


    Kallum waspletely unfazed. His gaze fixed on Calista. He had already figured out his strategy for winning her back.


    "You''ll eventually understand what real shamelessness is."


    After he finished speaking with a wicked grin, he forcefully stole a kiss from Calista. Then, leaning into her ear, he lowered his voice and said, "Sooner orter, you''ll be mine." With that, he left the room with the satisfied air of a man who had just won a great victory.


    Calista repeatedly wiped her mouth with the bandage on her hand. Had it not been for the bandage covering her face, Kallum would have definitely noticed her blushing. I''ll be his sooner orter? Oh, he wishes!


    Once Kallum stepped out the door, his cheerful mood didn''tst long. The incident where Horatio almost caused harm to Callie was something he couldn''t tolerate for a day. But what he didn''t anticipate was that before he could make a move, Horatio had surprisingly made the first visit.


    How dare hee?


    After a few days apart, Horatio appeared significantly aged. However, his eyes were determined, shining with a fierce spirit. Such a person wouldn''t be beaten down easily. "What are you here for?"


    Inside the study, Kallum stared at him, his face clearly showing his dissatisfaction.


    Horatio''s son assisted him forward, and he shakily ced an object on Kallum''s desk.


    It was an iron bookmark, appearing to have quite a history. On its intricate patterns, there was only one word, "Fairchild." This instantly allowed Kallum to recognize its origin.


    During the feudal period, the Fairchild family was also part of the nobility. At that time, there were numerous items bearing the family crest. But over generations, only a few had survived. Therefore, all items with the family crest were now treasured. What Horatio presented was an ancient artifact imprinted with the family crest.


    "This... was given to me by your grandfather. I hope you still remember him..."


    Horatio''s voice reminded Kallum of that spirited, upright old man, causing his face to darken.


    "What are you trying to say?"


    Horatio''s expression was one of deep reminiscence. "During our final battle, I saved your grandfather''s life. When he gave me this item, he told me that I could use it to request a favor from the head of the Fairchild family no matter when!" At this point, he suddenly fell to his knees.


    "Dad!" His son attempted to help him up, but he stopped him. He looked at Kallum, his face filled with regret.


    "I had considered using this to get you to save that person''s life before. But when I released Wayne, he told me that your life had to be sustained by that person every three days, and the one who was keeping you alive was also being depleted. He also mentioned that Calista was the one who saved your life, but I didn''t believe him at that time. I thought Calista was merely covering for the real person who saved you. But you needed her every three days. I knew there was no way you''d let her go to me. That''s why I resorted to such desperate measures, using your illness to publicly force you into cooperation with me. I had no other choice but to do this..."


    As he spoke, tears surprisingly began to stream down his face. "It was my narrow-mindedness, my contempt for women, that led me to think of using Calista as a threat against you. It nearly cost her life.. It was at my fault! But I won''t live much longer! No matter how many mistakes I''ve made, it was all just to survive! Now, I''m kneeling before you, begging you, Mr. Kallum, to overlook my transgressions and forgive me! Please, consider the many years of friendship between our two families..."


    Kallum toyed with the iron


    bookmark, a coldugh escaping his lips. "Yes, you were afraid I''d refuse, so you spent a year or two scheming against me. When that failed you thought to use Callie''s life to threaten me! So, in the end, you


    can disregard others'' lives just because you''re afraid to die? And now, you have the audacity to beg me?"


    "Mr. Kallum! Mr. Kallum... please listen to me..." Horatio moved forward on his knees. "It''s all over. God doesn''t want me to live, and I ept it! I know it was Calista who saved your life, and I''m fully aware that you would never harm her to save me... I''ve truly given up..." He hung his head low, filled with remorse.


    "Because I''ve been so confusedtely, I''ve made irreversible mistakes, and I''m willing to take full responsibility! Presenting this to you today, I''m only asking you to spare my children..."


    "Dad..."


    His eldest son, unable to bear the sight, followed suit and got to his knees.

 Chapter 389 Let Me Guess

    "Mr. Kallum, please... My dad just doesn''t want to die. It''s a basic human instinct. If he hadn''t been certain that you would never hand over that person, he wouldn''t have resorted to such desperate measures... There''s no heart donor avable now, and Ms. Stafford refuses to save him. His days are numbered. Please, Mr. Kallum, considering the good rtions our families have maintained over the years, please forgive him this one time!" Kallum subtly raised an eyebrow.


    "So, you intend to use this token in exchange for my promise not to retaliate against your family, is that correct?"


    Horatio gritted his teeth and nodded. "I''ve stopped worrying about other things. I''ll live as long as I can! I only hope that you can be generous and forgive the foolish things I did before!"


    Kallumughed. He narrowed his eyes as he observed the two of them.


    "Such confidence..."


    He shook his head, scoffing coldly, "No, such audacity! You threatened me, harmed me, and then expect me to forgive you based on past favors from a previous generation? Are you... perhaps a bit too oblivious?" Kallum''s mocking words utterly humiliated Horatio.


    "You want me to act as if nothing happened? Fine." Kallum chuckled lightly. "Drop dead in front of me! Then, I''ll consider this matter as if it never urred, how about that?"


    "Mr. Kallum!" Horatio''s son was about to speak, but he was silenced by Kallum''s gaze.


    "What''s the difference, really?" Kallum said indifferently. "Aren''t your days numbered anyway? Whether you die sooner orter, does it really matter?"


    Horatio remained silent for a moment. He initially thought that if he knelt down and brought up Kallum''s grandfather, there was a fifty percent chance that Kallum would spare him.


    However, he had severely underestimated the importance of Calista in Kallum''s heart. If it wasn''t Calista who was harmed, perhaps Kallum, out of respect for his grandfather''s token, might have shown mercy. The only consequence would have been a permanent severance of ties between the two families.


    Yet, Horatio, in his unfortunate wisdom, had decided to mess with Calista. To protect her, Kallum was even willing to risk his own life, let alone face those who wished to harm her.


    Seeing that Horatio remained silent, Kallum tossed the iron bookmark onto the ground. "You might as well take this back. When you''re six feet under, you can use this to seek forgiveness from my grandfather, or even tattle on me if you wish. It''s up to you. Quintus, show our guest out."


    ""Yes, Mr. Kallum!"


    Quintus forcibly helped a pale-faced Horatio to his feet. Clutching the bookmark, Horatio eximed, "Why?"


    He was getting somewhat agitated. "At the banquet, you were clearly all right, so why wouldn''t you hand her over to me? It''s just a minor harm to her. It''s not like she''s going to die! Our families have been friends for so many years, so why do you refuse?" Kallum furrowed his brows.


    "Because she''s my woman!"


    Horatio couldn''tprehend it. She''s just a woman, and there are plenty of them. At his age, there are still plenty of young girls throwing themselves at him. Why? I can''t ept this!


    Kallum had already lost interest in continuing the conversation with him.


    "Go back. I will contact you regarding what happened at Narrow Sky Gorge. We need to settle our scores."


    Horatio clutched his chest, unable to even stay on his feet.


    The following day, the news that


    Horatio''s actions had resulted in Calista''s miscarriage spread like wildfire, ghiting the fury of the


    Fairchild family. They demandel


    justice, and everyone in Horington was aware of it.


    Moreover, there were rumors that Horatio had even sent people to hunt down Calista. The radio broadcast from that night was stil avable online, and everyone knew about Calista''s desperate plea for help to Kallum on the precarious leage.


    Kallum had taken a daring leap from the helicopter, catching her hand just in the nick of time.


    Naturally, they were extremely dissatisfied with the Ingram family, who had caused them harm. Coupled with the continuous drop in their stock, the Ingram family faced an unprecedented crisis.


    A few dayster, Calista came to know of these developments. She asked Kallum, "What did the Ingram family do? They couldn''t have just sat there doing nothing, right?"


    Kallum replied casually, "They''ve been wanting to split up their family, just like the Wolford family did back then. I didn''t respond."


    Calista chuckled. "Misfortune shouldn''t fall on the innocent. If they really want to split up, then dealing with Horatio will suffice when the timees. As for the others, let them be." Kallum was somewhat disgruntled. "They sure are obedient! But I don''t n on letting them off so easily."


    "Why?"


    Kallum looked at her. "Because of you."


    At that moment, Calista unwrapped the gauze, revealing the crisscrossing scars on her face. He tenderly traced them with his hand for a moment. "Anyone who hurts you deserves to die!"


    Calista cast him a meaningful nce.


    "And what about you? Though you didn''t hurt me directly, you''ve indirectly caused me pain..."


    Kallum responded nonchntly, "My life has been in your hands for a while now, hasn''t it?"


    Calista''s heart stirred. She briefly met his gaze before quickly averting her eyes.


    Kallum held her chin, forcing her to look at him.


    "You''ve been avoiding my gazetely." Kallum revealed a mischievous smile. "Why?"


    Calista felt as if she had been scorched by his touch. She said with a straight face, "There''s no such thing!"


    "Let me guess." Kallum smirked. "Is


    it because you''re not confident in your appearance, so you''re afraid show me? I''ve heard that women always want to present their most beautiful side to the man they like..."

 Chapter 390 I Am Here For You

    Calista''s face turned crimson. She red at Kallum and spat, "You''re a narcissist!"


    "Then why is that?" Kallum yfully insisted, not allowing her to divert her gaze. His meticulously sculpted face was filled with a boastful smile. "You''ve been really shy around metely! Could it be that you''ve fallen for me again after I saved you?" Calista suddenly stood up. "I''m off to theboratory!"


    But before she could make a move, she was pulled onto the couch by Kallum and held tightly. He clung onto Calista like a ko.


    "I''ve really been enjoying your recent changes, Callie. When will you consider marrying me?"


    "That''s enough!"


    Kallum narrowed his eyes. "You need to think this through. Yes, you have money, but I''ve used it all to buy stocks for you!"


    "What?" Calista had never paid attention to her own finances before. It had always been Kallum who had someone manage it for her. Stocks? Why am Ipletely in the dark about this?


    "What stocks did you buy for me?" Calista asked, her eyes wide.


    "I bought stocks from ourpany. How does that feel? Surprising, isn''t it?"


    Calista was simply astounded.


    "How... is it possible..." There''s no need to buy the odd lots on the market, while the shareholders hold onto their shares tightly.


    "I just passed on a portion of what I have in my hands to you!" Kallum responded as if it was the most natural thing in the world. "Now you hold two percent of Fairchild Group''s shares, making you the individual with the highest shareholding apart from me! The annual dividends alone are enough for you to livefortably. Are you happy?"


    Calista no longer knew what expression to wear when facing him.


    Inrge corporations, it''s typically those with the most shares who hold the power. To safeguard this authority, the shares controlled by the Fairchild family are immovable! This is also why, even if all the other shareholdersbine their influence, they can''t sway Kallum. Yet, he surprisingly handed over something others could only dream of owning without a second thought to me...


    I''ve be a part of Fairchild Group. The annual dividends alone are enough for me to livefortably for a lifetime. I even hold a certain degree of influence within Fairchild Group...


    Calista was suddenly hit by an enormous stroke of luck, yet she still felt frustrated.


    "Did you... use them all to buy stocks?"


    Seeing her astonishment, Kallum chuckled and said, "Not just that. I used the remaining money to buy all the shares of the Ingram family''spany! They sell, we buy, and once Horatio falls, you might just end up being the CEO of a listedpany!" Calista was inept at managing things and disliked interacting with people. She would either hand things over to Benedict or ask Kallum to temporarily take over for her. The frustration within Calista became even more intense.


    She asked calmly, "Then what about the port we acquired from Harvey?"


    Kallum feigned surprise. "Oh, that. Since we''ve taken over all the ports in that area, I decided to do a major overhaul. The n is to merge them for centralized management. We haven''t started making a profit yet."


    Therefore, the dividends had not been distributed yet.


    He didn''t need to finish the sentence, for Calista understood it from his mischievous grin.


    Calista pondered for a moment, her eyes anxiously fixed on him. "When did you buy the stocks, and when do I start receiving dividends?"


    Suppressing a chuckle, Kallum said,


    "The transfer of shares between us was officiallypleted this morning As for the Ingram family''s, they were shorted yesterday. To


    receive the first dividend, its 9.170


    take about half a year..." In reality, it wouldn''t take that long, but what could he do when he had no way to keep her?


    Calista massaged her throbbing temples. Suddenly, her eyes lit up as she stared at him expectantly.


    "Right... about a year and a half ago, I developed an anti-cancer drug..."


    "Ah, that..." Kallum grinned wickedly. "Didn''t you know your dad handed over the form in exchange for a government license? I recall your dad had called you about it." Calista recalled a past where she was swamped with work due to the K Virus. She seemed to have received such a phone call during that time.


    At that moment, Calista felt a dryness in her throat. "How much money do I have left now?"


    Kallum replied with utmost seriousness, "You should still have around one thousand and thirty in your ount. No worries, you can always use mine! Feel free to use my card!" Unable to contain herself any longer, Calista clutched her chest.


    "So, I''m actually a pauper now?"


    Kallum held her,ughing as he coaxed, "What are you talking about? I''m here for you! Isn''t it natural for a woman to spend a man''s money? Whatever you want, I''ll give it to you..." However, once she epted his money, there was no way she could extricate herself from him in the future.


    At that moment, Calista was


    overwhelmed with a strong sense of impending danger. Given the


    circumstances, her options were et


    limited to either moving into the smatt mansion she had previously rented for half a year, or returning to the Stafford residence.


    A thought sparked in Calista''s mind.


    Since Kallum had forbidden her from going to theboratory, she thought it was better to go home rather than stay here and be teased by him every day.


    Therefore, driven by some obscure sense of vengeance, Calista suddenly addressed Wanda during dinner.

 Chapter 391 I Want To Sleep With You

    "Aunt Wanda, it''s been a long time since I''ve been home. I want to go back and stay for a few days." The moment she spoke, the previously harmonious atmosphere at the dining table became awkward. Just as Wanda was about to speak, her husband swiftly pulled her back.


    Hold your tongue. Can''t you see your son has already lost his temper?


    With a fork tightly mped in his hand, Kallum asked, "You want to go home?"


    Fairchild Manor is her home. She''s clearly nning to run away from home!


    Calista didn''t respond. She didn''t even look at him. Her eyes were solely fixed on Wanda.


    Sensing a tension brewing at the dinner table, Wanda swallowed hard and whispered, "Why do you want to go back all of a sudden? This is also your home, isn''t it? Did something happen that made you upset?"


    Calista stole a nce at Kallum. She couldn''t use her hands now and was constantly carried around by Kallum every day. She felt upset all the time.


    However, she was incredibly aloof as she said, "No. It''s just been a long time since I''ve spent quality time with my dad. I suddenly miss him a lot."


    Upon hearing that Calista was merely missing her father, Wanda found it to be a natural sentiment. She smiled and said, "You''re right. After your dad''s divorce, he never found someone else. He must be quite lonely. How about this? Tomorrow, you-" Before she could finish her sentence, Ss interrupted her with a yful nudge, "Honey, you haven''t taken your medicine today. Are you feeling a tightness in your chest? Let''s go take your medicine!"


    Then, he took Wanda by the hand and they left.


    Calista''s eyes widened. She quietly turned to look at Kallum''s face. The sight was too much to bear. He scoffed coldly, throwing his fork onto the te with a loud ng.


    "Trying to shake me off, aren''t you? You seem rather eager." Kallum scrutinized her.


    Even though she shouldn''t have, Calista actually felt nervous at that moment. "I''m not a criminal!"


    "Oh?" Kallum rose from his seat and moved to the other side. With a casual bend of his legs, he perched himself right on the dining table. His arms were crossed over his chest as he looked down at her with amanding gaze. "Why don''t you tell me, howe someone who hasn''t bothered to call her dad even once in a year or two suddenly wants to reminisce about old times with him? Or should I say, reminiscing is just an excuse, and you''re trying to avoid me?"


    Calista opened her mouth to speak, but before she could utter a word, Kallum silenced her with a single finger pressed against her lips.


    Calista felt a sense of danger.


    "You''re still not well. It''s not good for you to be running around. Whatever it is, wouldn''t it be better to wait until you''ve fully recovered?" Calista hesitated for a moment, struggling desperately as if on the brink of death.


    "Nothing will go wrong if I just stay at home and don''t go out."


    Kallum chuckled amiably.


    "No!"


    No?


    You call the shots in the Fairchild family, but I''m not a Fairchild!


    In the middle of the night, Calista''s dissatisfaction grew. After realizing she was penniless, she felt her courage had significantly diminished.


    She was penniless, but she still had friends. Wyatt would undoubtedly take her in.


    However, given her current physical condition, it was impossible for her to bother others. She decided to go home instead. She refused to believe that Kallum would actually follow her all the way to her house.


    Having made up her mind, Calista


    stealthily rose from her bed. Luckily,


    Kallum respected her enough not to


    insist they share a room after her return. Otherwise, her n would have been far more difficult execute.


    After getting dressed, Calista opened the door.


    Her heart almost leaped out of her chest, and her eyes widened.


    She said in a remarkably cool and collected manner, "It''s quitete. Why aren''t you asleep, Mr. Kallum? Do you need something from me?"


    Leaning against the doorway with his arms crossed, Kallum broke into a smile the moment he saw her.


    "You heartless girl, you can sleep soundly without me, but without you, I can''t sleep at all!"


    His words were a mix of truth and


    were


    deceit. The main issue was that he had suffered another bout of side effects from the antiserum he had taken earlier. He was in extreme difort and wanted to seek soface in her presence.


    But they had finally managed to get along harmoniously. He didn''t dare to disrupt this pattern lightly, so he had lingered at the door for quite some time, not daring to enter. Little did he know she would be the one to open


    the door first.


    The mere thought of Calista''s motive for dressing up and opening the door in the middle of the night brought a smile to Kallum''s face.


    "That being said, it''s quitete... so where are you going?"


    In a split second, Calista came up with the perfect excuse.


    "I... want to go to theboratory. I just thought of something really useful!"


    "That''s a good excuse." Kallum looked at her in surprise. "I didn''t expect your lies to be so convincing. As it happens, I can''t sleep. Shall we take a walk together?"


    Calista felt a headacheing on. She moved to close the door. "Forget it, whatever it is can be discussed with Old Mr. Yancey tomorrow... I''m off to bed now. Goodnight..."


    "Wait!" Kallum propped the door open, arching his eyebrows. "I think you''re trying to run away."


    "No, I''m not..."


    "Calista, do you really think you can fool me?"


    When Kallum suddenly called her name, Calista felt a bit guilty. "So, what do you want?"


    Forcibly, Kallum made his way in. "I want to sleep with you, of course."


    Before Calista could utter a word, she was abruptly hoisted up by Kallum and tossed onto the bed. "What are you doing?"


    Her hands were still bandaged, limiting what she could do. She could only resist using her legs.

 Chapter 392 So What

    At this moment, Kallum began to unbuckle his belt.


    Belt?


    Calista was lying on the bed, her eyes wide as she stared at him. Her mind raced with numerous thoughts. Is he trying to hit me? Or is he roleying?


    While she was still thinking, Kallum had already pressed down on her legs, using the belt to fasten her two legs together.


    Had her hand been fine, undoing this kind of lock would have taken mere minutes. But now, looking at her own legs bound, Calista found herself utterly helpless. "Kallum..." Calista said weakly.


    "This way, you''ll behave!"


    Kallum shed a fierce grin, fastening the belt around her thigh, close to her knee, and pulled it tight. This made Calista behave, as she couldn''t move her legs at all. "I need to use the bathroom!"


    "Shall I carry you?" Kallum responded instinctively. As their eyes met, an embarrassingly intimate posture shed through both their minds. Calista''s face turned beet red. "You''re shameless!"


    Shameless?


    Suddenly, with a burst of enthusiasm, Kallum lunged forward, grabbing Calista''s hands and pinning her underneath him. His eyes sparkled with mischief. "Seriously, if you need to use the bathroom, don''t hold it in! Remember when I was sick? You took care of me then. Now, it''s my turn to take care of you."


    Calista waspletely cornered. She lifted her gaze to meet Kallum''s, enveloped by his refreshing scent. His intense body heat made her face burn even redder. After a prolonged exchange of nces, she said through gritted teeth, "I don''t want to go anymore!"


    Upon hearing this, Kallum wore a face of disappointment.


    "Make sure to let me know if you ever need anything! I''d be more than happy to help!"


    "Kallum!"


    Calista struggled forcefully. Seeing that she was angry, Kallum quickly leaned down to kiss her lips. At that moment, the world fell silent.


    After snapping back to reality, Calista pounded his chest with her clenched fists.


    However, it seemed as if her strength had diminished due to her injury. Despite her resistance, Kallum remained resolute, breaking past her clenched teeth to im a deeper kiss from her.


    Under the dim light, Calista found herself being passionately kissed. For a moment, she struggled to breathe. She was enveloped in an intense heat, with no room for resistance.


    After a long kiss, the ambiguous sounds echoed within the quiet room.


    Calista hadn''t fully recovered her senses when she immediately covered her mouth with her bandaged hands.


    "I can''t go on anymore..."


    Her muffled voice came through. It was raspy yet tender.


    Kallum was slightly lost in thought. It had been a long time since hest experienced such intimacy.


    A flutter stirred in his heart as he gently, yet decisively, removed her hands. A deep chuckle emanated from his chest. He was pleased with her reaction.


    "Why are youughing..."


    Calista shot him a re, trying to be tough. Yet, their faces were merely a few inches apart. What if I raised my voice and he...


    Kallum traced the scar on her face with his fingertips. Her face wasn''t conventionally beautiful, but her eyes held a gxy of stars, shimmering with an unspoken depth. She was gazing at him, drawing him in deeper and deeper. "If you keep looking at me like that, I might just have to take you."


    Suddenly, the low, husky, and amused voice of Kallum echoed, causing not only Calista''s face, but her entire body to blush.


    In a state of panic, she hastily


    pushed Kallum away, and he


    allowed himself to be pushed back.


    Seeing Calista tied up and


    instinctively shrinking toward


    d.ne


    corner of the bed, he couldn''t hold back any longer and burst outughing.


    "Callie! How could you be so adorable?"


    Calista''s eyes widened in panic. She pursed her lips, remaining silent.


    Kallum approached as if he had made a groundbreaking discovery.


    "You seem quite nervous? Has no one ever spoken to you in such a manner before?"


    Calista hugged her knees, eyeing him warily. At that moment, even if she had unleashed all her defenses, she still seemed as vulnerable and endearing as a startled bunny.


    Under the dim, yellow light, Kallum leaned in closer, resembling a wolf while she appeared to be a fragile little creature on the brink of danger.


    He gently held her face, his longshes casting a shadow over his eyes, as he asked in an inexplicably soft tone, "Could it be that, in your past and present life, you''ve only ever experienced intimacy once, and it was with me?"


    Although it seemed unlikely, the mere thought of it brought such pleasure to Kallum.


    Calista snapped back to reality and forcefully pped his hand away.


    "So what?"


    So what? She actually admitted it!


    Kallum burst out in triumphantughter.


    He was so ted that he scooped Calista into his arms like a wolf pouncing on its prey. His eyes were filled with affection.


    Calista felt humiliated. What''s so funny about me sleeping only with him?


    In her previous life, she had


    managed to live until thirty.


    However, that life was far from


    ordinary She was either on the rust


    or being captured for


    vel.


    experimentation. Her true life


    experiences were pitifully scarce, overshadowed by the bleak and dismal aspects.

 Chapter 393 Not Adept Dealing With People

    Calista wasn''t adept at making friends or dealing with people, was naive to the ways of the world, and was devoid of any social needs. She had only slept with one person before, so she didn''t understand what was there tough at.


    "What are youughing at?" Her tone was extremely dangerous, her eyes piercingly fixed on him.


    Kallum was on the verge ofughing until tears formed in his eyes as he held the woman he cherished. Hearing her dere that she had loved only him in both of her lives and that he was the only one for her gave him a sense of fulfillment that others simply couldn''tprehend.


    Suddenly, he felt incredibly fortunate. He was aware of his good fortune. Whether it was his reincarnation or life experiences, they were all smooth sailing. However, there was never a moment that made him feel as lucky as he did at that moment, havingpletely received all of her in both his previous and present life.


    "I''m just happy, that''s all!" Kallum nted a forceful kiss on Calista''s face, only to be met with a look of disdain.


    His smugness irked her greatly, and she muttered unhappily. "Don''t you also have sex only once before? What''s there to be so proud of?"


    Kallum was nonplussed, bit her ear, and said menacingly, "If it weren''t for your current state of health, that number would absolutely keep climbing indefinitely! Do you believe that?"


    Calista maintained a cold, indifferent expression, but her body involuntarily recoiled in fear.


    She felt that if it weren''t for the K Virus still lingering in her body, she would have been wholly devoured long ago.


    Kallum turned andughed again. "Do you know what this signifies? It means you''ve always been meant to be with me! In our previous lives, we both took the wrong paths, so in this life we''re correcting that. You were always supposed to be mine!" He repeated with unwavering certainty!


    Calista huffed. In my previous life, it was just that I didn''t have the time, that''s all! It would''ve been fine if this matter wasn''t brought up! "I''m really tired. If you''re too wired to sleep, why don''t you go for a run or something?"


    Kallum lowered his voice, whispering into her ear, "It''s seeing you that truly excites me..."


    "Even with my disfigured face, you can still get hard?"


    "Do you want to touch it?"


    Calista touched her face. Ever since Kallum had started to y around without any boundaries, she was finding it harder and harder to keep up with him.


    "Go to sleep!" Her voice held a hint of desperation. "Unfasten this d*mned belt from me!"


    ""You''ll kick me out if I do," Kallum said, feigning a pitiful look.


    Calista was on the verge of losing her mind. She was set to leave tomorrow, but she would leave immediately given the chance.


    With such a strong obsession, she ended up sleeping in a state of confusion.


    The next day, it was clear that Calista had not gotten enough sleep.


    Shaun asked, "Ms. Stafford, did you not sleep wellst night?"


    Calista shook her head. "Is there a drug that can make a man go limp?"


    "Huh?"


    "Never mind. I was just speaking off the cuff."


    Ms. Stafford is harboring a perilous notion! For the sake of Kallum''s lifelong happiness, Shaun bit the bullet and covertly inquired, "Ms. Stafford, are you intending to...?" Calista waved her hand. Her expression was one of exhaustion.


    Shaun was somewhat puzzled. "Ms. Stafford, I believe you and Mr. Kallum make a great pair. Why won''t you consider epting him? We all saw how you used to feel about him, so I can''t believe you when you say


    you have no feelings for him So,


    why is it? Mr. Kallum is even willing


    to risk his life for you."


    Why? Calista''s headache seemed to intensify. Fortunately, Kallum had gone to the office. Otherwise, her day would have been even more unbearable. Why is that?


    She was simply overwhelmed by the deep sorrow within her, feeling as though she was suffocating.


    At that moment, the butler approached and announced, "Ms. Stafford, your father has arrived!"


    Calista was taken aback. Dad''s here? Well, then again, it''s about time. Thest time I had a close he visited once while I was


    unconscious. Several days ha


    catly


    passed since then, so he should havee to visit by now. It''s odd he seems to bete.


    Upon seeing her face, Benedict was taken aback.


    "Callie! Your face..." He paused momentarily. "You''ll be okay, right?"


    Calista nodded. "Yes. It will get better in time. Your visit... Is there something you need?"


    It was no surprise that Calista would say such a thing because Benedict was just the type of person who wore his troubles on his face.


    Benedict replied, "Yes. Something came up, which caused a dy these past few days. I should have been here sooner."


    "What happened?" Calista calmly picked up a cup of coffee. In her mind, Benedict should be sailing smoothly without any worries.


    Benedict nced timidly at Calista as if he was afraid she would me him. It took him a moment before he managed to stutter out his words. "Um, a few days ago, I bumped into someone." Calista narrowed her eyes. "Who?"


    "Yelena."


    Calista inexplicablyughed. She took a sip of her coffee, remaining silent.


    Meanwhile, Benedict continued speaking, steeling himself. "At that time, she was all covered in blood. I had no choice but to take her to the hospital. Then, I contacted the Langley family toe and pick her up. However, the Langley family said that because of Yelena''s actions, the head of the Langley family had fallen ill from anger. They had already cut ties with Yelena and told me not to bother them anymore. They said if I don''t want to save her, I could just leave her on the street. Whether she lived or died, it would have nothing to do with the Langley family anymore."

 Chapter 394 Do Not Return From Now

    Calista raised an eyebrow slightly, reminiscing about that night when she barged into the Langley residence and grinning. Seeing Calista smile, Benedict felt even more uncertain.


    "I had intended to pay her medical bills out of the kindness of my heart, as we had shared a brief acquaintance, and then leave. However... she clung onto me. She imed she was homeless, and if I wasn''t willing to take her in, she might as well have been left to die in the hospital!" Benedict shook his head. "She also said that she''d do anything, even ve away, as long as I was willing to take her in. She mentioned that she had no other choice back then and now she feels deeply sorry for me..."


    Benedict furrowed his brows in distress. "Moreover, she looked miserable. Her face was so thin it was almost unrecognizable. It seemed she really learned her lesson."


    Strictly speaking, Benedict was a kind-hearted man with a forgiving nature. Despite the way Yelena had treated him in the past, which had initially filled him with resentment, time had softened his anger. Seeing Yelena''s miserable state, he no longer harbored such intense resentment and even felt a strong sense of sympathy toward her.


    Calista set down her cup. "Where is she now?"


    "She''s at our ce," replied Benedict.


    Upon hearing that Benedict had arrived, Kallum thought that his soon-to-be father-inw was there to im someone. Without a second thought, he quickly wrapped up his work and returned from the office, only to find Calista packing clothes.


    "What are you doing?" Kallum''s towering figure blocked the doorway. His brows furrowed in a clear disy of displeasure as if he was on the verge of losing his temper. Meanwhile, Benedict was off to one side, trying to mediate the situation. "Yeah, Callie, with all the chaos at home right now, perhaps it''s better if you don''t return right now." Kallum raised an eyebrow slightly, noticing that Benedict didn''t want Calista to return. It seems something is up. No matter. I won''t let my wife leave this building! Hmph! Calista looked at Kallum. Seeing that he had returned so quickly, she walked over and spoke with a hint of resignation. "I want to go home for a few days." Kallum was taken aback. Just as he was about to voice his disapproval, Calista swiftly covered his mouth with her hand, emphasizing her point. "Just for a few days!" Kallum nced at Benedict, asking with discontent, "What''s the point of going back?"


    Benedict was off to the side, sweating bullets. My daughter isn''t even married yet, so why can''t she return to her parents'' home? Why do I feel guilty every time I meet the gaze of my prospective son-inw?


    Calista chuckled lightly. "Yelena has nowhere else to go, so she ving away at our ce. She used to bully me so much. Now that I have the chance to turn the tables, of course I want to go back and enjoy it!"


    "Her again?" Kallum frowned in disdain, feeling that even though those people were insignificant, they clung to her like superglue, impossible to shake off no matter how hard she tried.


    Calista nodded in agreement.


    Mirabelle and Quincy were both out


    of the picture and Yelena was


    almost there, too. Yelena was on the brink of rain, with no possible chance of turning things around However, Yelena had chosen not to take the easy way out. Instead, she had fallen right into Calista''s hands. Given that opportunity, Calista couldn''t help but toy with Yelena a bit, indulging in her own twisted sense of amusement.


    "Is it really just because you want to have some fun?" Kallum didn''t see anything wrong with Calista''s


    intention to retaliate. After all, she had suffered countless times at the hands of Yelena since childhood. However, Kallum was worried that could be an excuse for Calista to leave. She had been wanting to slip away for quite some time, and if she seeded, he wouldn''t feel at ease


    without her under his watchful eyes.


    "I promise!" Calista solemnly raised her hand in a vow. Her petite face was still marred with several scars, but to Kallum, her serious demeanor was absolutely endearing. However, he was still quite hesitant.


    Seeing that he remained silent, Calista leaned in and whispered softly, "You can''t push me too hard, you know. You have to give me some space to think." She let out a sigh.


    Kallum''s eyes lit up when he heard that. What does she mean by that? Could it be that she''s once again faltering because of him?


    Kallum intensely gazed at her, his handsome face stern, as he hesitated before asking. "What if the conclusion you''ve reached isn''t what I''m hoping for?" A hint of bewilderment shed in Calista''s eyes.


    Seeing that she was genuinely contemting, rather than using it as an excuse to leave, was merely a small change. Yet, for Kallum, it was enough.


    He stared at her for a moment, and finally, his tense body rxed. Forget it. After all, I have plenty of time to win her over.


    "All right, you may go." Suddenly,


    Kallum extended a finger, pressing it


    firmly against her forehead as he


    dered menacingly, "However, you only have one week. I''m giving you just one week. Come back once


    you''ve had your fill!"


    5


    Calista originally thought that convincing Kallum, who had made a special trip to meet her, would be a tough task. To her surprise, he agreed quickly, leaving her stunned.


    Moreover, when Kallum poked her forehead a few times with his finger, she didn''t understand why, but she felt as though her heart had also been tapped twice by the same finger, causing it to waver a bit.


    Even though Kallum was only in his twenties, the way he looked at her, his brows furrowed and lips pursed, a mix of helplessness and indulgence in his gaze, she genuinely felt as if she was being cherished and held in high regard. She wondered if she could really be with Kallum again.


    Even on her journey back home, she was still pondering that.


    Her life, whether she liked it or not, seemed to be inextricably intertwined with that name. It was a mixture of resentment and obsessive thoughts that she could never fully untangle it.

 Chapter 395 Unconcerned About Actions

    However, the moment Calistaid eyes on Yelena, those jumbled thoughts instantly faded away. Seeing Yelena opening the door with sheer joy before paling was quite a satisfying sight to Calista.


    "Dad, you mentioned she chose to be a free housekeeper in our home, right?" asked Calista.


    Before Benedict could respond, Yelena timidly spoke up. "Yes... Callie, I''ve made many mistakes in the past, so I-"


    "That''s not how you should address me," Calista interrupted her, his smile appearing particrly wicked beneath the crisscrossing scars. "What should you call me?"


    Yelena hesitated before saying, "Ms. Calista."


    "Good!" Calistaughed,pletely unconcerned about whether her actions were wrong or not. It was almost instinctive for her to make Yelena ufortable!


    She said to Benedict, "How can it be fair for Mdm. Langley to work in our house without a sry? Dad, you should pay her at least as much as the security guard. After all, she may not necessarily be doing a better job than him." Benedict caught Yelena''s desperate plea for help in her gaze, but he didn''t react, simply going along with what Calista was saying. "All right, let''s do it that way."


    At that moment, Yelena realized who truly held the reins in this household!


    In her mind, she was frantically pondering about something. Isn''t Calista supposed to be in the Fairchild family, rarely leaving the house? How did she return? Could it be that she came back to deal with me? Yelena clenched her fist, forcefully suppressing the surge of resentment welling up within her. Calista has everything now, so why is she still causing trouble for me? Is he not satisfied until I''m driven to my demise?


    She nced at Benedict, and only then did her anxious heart settle. Anyway, as long as Benedict is still as easy to handle as before, I still have a chance.


    Upon entering, Calista settled herself on the couch. Since she was often not home, Benedict was also frequently out. Thus, aside from the staff who cooked, cleaned, and guarded the house, there were no other housekeepers present. Calista chuckled lightly. "Where''s my coffee? It''s not every day I return home. Can I not even have a ss of water?"


    Upon hearing those words, Yelena instinctively looked towards Benedict. However, it seemed as if Benedict hadn''t noticed her gaze at all. He simply headed upstairs to his study.


    Left with no choice, Yelena could only respond, "I''m on my way..."


    She poured Calista a cup of mocha, but considering the extent to which Calista had wronged her, she obviously wasn''t going to serve Calista sincerely.


    Thus, Yelena spat into the coffee cup. Having fallen to such a low point, that was the only scheme she had left.


    Once the coffee was ready, she cautiously and timidly brought the cup over. Her thin face bore no trace of the harshness that once was. "Ms. Calista, your coffee is ready."


    Calista merely nced at Yelena, not taking what was offered. Instead, she looked at Yelena with a half-smile. "You were my stepmother for over a decade. Surely, you must know, I don''t like mocha, right?"


    Yelena was taken aback. Even


    though she had been harshly treated


    by Calista for the past two years, the subconscious memories of her tormenting Calista for eighteen years always managed to creep up, causing mischief. As a result, she found herself in a conflicted state of mind. Thus, on the one hand, she feared Calista, but on the other, she felt she shouldn''t be afraid. That internal contradiction led her to be submissive yet cursing under her breath. "I... I don''t know what you liked to drink..."


    "You don''t know?" Calista chuckled softly, perched on the couch just like any other prominent youngdy, her tone high and mighty. "If you don''t know, then learn? Are you waiting for me, the master, to teach you how to be a housekeeper?" The veiled mockery caused Yelena to grimace.


    However, she was already at her wit''s end. After she had driven Matthew to illness, Hans was relentlessly berated and beaten by Matthew. He couldn''t even protect himself, let alone her.


    Therefore, she had no choice but to


    take a risk and seek out Benedict.


    ???


    She initially thought that as long as she behaved subserviently and yed the victim, Benedict would surely be moved. However, before she could do anything, Calista r¨¦turned from the Fairchild family, clearly targeting her.


    Upon arriving at that thought, Yelena gritted her teeth so loudly it was audible. Calista was leaving her absolutely no way out!


    "Well? Get going." Calista gave her a quick nce.


    Yelena suppressed the impulse to ssh the coffee in her hand onto Calista''s face and responded in a submissive manner, "I... I''m going right now."


    Staring at her retreating figure,


    Calista couldn''t help but chuckle. How ironic that my once high and mighty stepmother is now at the mercy of her once-downtrodden stepdaughter. It must have been quite ufortable for her, but I find it incredibly amusing. She only remembered the Stafford family after she had no way out. Even if Dad agrees to take her in, I''m still kicking, and I won''t make it easy for her!


    Yelena brought over a cup of cappino. That time, she didn''t dare pull any tricks. Calista nced at it and said, "I don''t really like cappino, either. Are you trying to make me die of thirst?"


    At that moment, as Yelena stared into Calista''s malicious gaze, she genuinely considered throwing something at thetter!


    Yelena held the cup tightly, her grip unyielding! "Ms. Calista... What exactly would you like to drink?"


    Her resentful gaze was fiercely suppressed beneath her mask, her thin lips taut beneath her high cheekbones, clearly at the brink of endurance.


    She can''t even handle this much? Calista waved her hand, somewhat bored. "Keep going, until I''m satisfied."


    Left with no other choice, Yelena had to turn around.

 Chapter 396 Tamed By Calista

    After giving it some thought, Yelena took the cup of coffee and headed to Benedict''s study.


    Benedict had initially been engrossed in reviewing financial statements when he noticed her, expressing surprise. "What''s the matter?"


    Yelena''s tears immediately welled up, cascading down her cheeks. Her face, elegantly maintained and even more refined due to her weight loss, was filled with an expression of profound sorrow. "I feel so useless... Callie asked me to pour her some coffee, but I have no idea what kind she preferred. I''ve prepared different coffee a few times, yet she''s never satisfied. To avoid wasting it, I''ll give this cup to you to drink..."


    Benedict''s expression held an inexplicable restraint. Just when Yelena thought Benedict would criticize Calista, he managed to utter a sentence, "Callie is unpredictable. It''s best you don''t upset her."


    A chill ran down Yelena''s spine. Could it be that in such a short span of time, Benedict had already been wholly tamed by Calista?


    She found the situation to be more challenging, and she bowed her head, sobbing softly.


    "Benedict! I''m at my wit''s end. I know I''ve made many mistakes in the past. It''s understandable if Callie doesn''t forgive me, but I truly realize my wrongdoings now..." That time, she truly cried.


    The thought of her life after divorcing Benedict was too painful to put into words. She had once found Benedict unbearable, but she realized that he had genuinely cared for her. "I was ignorant to your worth in the past. I didn''t cherish you, but I truly realize my mistake now, Benedict. Please help me..."


    Benedict found himself touched by her tears. He had always been a man easily moved by emotions, especially when it came to Yelena, his wife of many years. Even if love was absent, he still felt a sense of deep familial bond with her. Seeing her struggle so much, he couldn''t help but feel a surge ofpassion. "All right, stop crying now! I''ll take you down, okay? Callie is only staying at home for a week. During this week, try not to upset her. I''ll also have a word with her."


    Yelena''s eyes lit up when she heard that Calista was only staying for a week. She followed behind Benedict with a slightly aggrieved look, heading off to find Calista.


    Seeing that Yelena had been gone for quite a while and had even brought Benedict along, Calista couldn''t help but scoff.


    "Why, I asked you to make coffee. Why did you bring my father along?" Catching sight of Yelena''s red, swollen eyes, Calista widened her smile, her gaze filled with puzzlement. "I don''t recall mistreating you. Why are you crying?"


    "Callie..." Benedict attempted to


    assert his paternal authority, yet it


    was clear that Calista was the apple of Kallum''s eye. Recognizing that reality, Benedict found himself


    unable to be stern with Cali


    leaving him somewhat helpless. "Yelena realizes her mistakes now. She just wants our family to take her in for a while. Let''s not make things difficult for her."


    Yelena chimed in at the right moment. "Ms. Calista, as soon as I find a job, I''ll leave immediately! The time I''m spending here is merely to atone for my past mistakes. I assure you, I have no other intention."


    The smile on Calista''s face cooled slightly, her confusion evident as she asked, "What are you trying to do? I haven''t given you a hard time. Why did you bring Dad here? What exactly are you nning?"


    Benedict said tly, "In the end, her staying here is my decision. Callie, do me a favor and don''t make things difficult for her."


    "Difficult? So she went toin, huh?" Calista was seated on the couch, visibly frustrated. "All I asked her to do was pour me two cups of coffee, yet she acts like it''s so difficult. I really can''t afford to keep such a temperamental housekeeper." "No... No..." Yelena wiped away her tears, ncing at Benedict as if she were an innocent woman burdened with unspeakable sorrow. "I''ll go prepare it now..."


    Upon seeing Yelena leave, Benedict sighed. "Callie, why are you doing this? I know you''re worried she might have ulterior motives, and I understand you''re looking out for me. However, I''m only offering her a ce to stay for a while. I''m seldom home, so consider it as providing her a ce to live. There will be nothing more between us. I just feel sorry for her... After all, we were married for over a decade. It''s somewhat hard to be heartless."


    Calista had not anticipated that Benedict would have such a clear understanding of Yelena''s thoughts. However, she knew Benedict too well. His intentions were always good. He was the kind of man who would feed a stray cat if he saw one, let alone Yelena. However, in Calista''s opinion, he just didn''t understand Yelena well enough.


    Everyone in Horington knew about Yelena''s scandal, yet she could still scheme as if she were unaffected. A woman like her would never be a match for Benedict.


    At that moment, Yelena came over with a cup of apple cidertte she had brewed. With a timid demeanor, she held thette, but instead of handing it over directly, she knelt down in front of Calista!


    "What are you doing?" Benedict was taken aback, rushing over to help Yelena up. However, Yelena refused to get up, her face set with determination as she looked at Calista.


    "Callie, I know you despise me. I was


    foolish in the past, I treated you


    poorly, and I wasn''t good to


    Benedict. I''ve made many


    mistakes..." She spoke with such


    sincerity and passion that when she reached the height of her emotions, tears fell from her eyes like pearls from a broken string, tracing a path down her pale face. "I was such a fool! Always overambitious and aiming high without the ability to back it up. I failed to recognize who truly cared for me. I was such a mess. Callie, I''ve truly decided to turn over a new leaf and start afresh. I''ll go out and find a job soon. I promise not to be a burden on you anymore. Could you please give me this chance to make amends? I beg you!"

 Chapter 397 Forgive Me

    Yelena''s captivating performance deeply moved Benedict. "All right, get up now! You shouldn''t do this." The two of them were fussing and tugging at each other while Calista didn''t so much as bat an eyelid.


    With a hardened resolve, Yelena pushed away Benedict and slid the coffee cup toward Calista. "Callie, please be magnanimous and overlook my past mistakes this time. I promise to be a better person from now on!"


    Calista''s gaze fell on the coffee cup. "What difference does it make whether I forgive you or not?"


    Yelena quickly pleaded, "Forgive me, just have this cup of coffee..."


    Narrowing her eyes, Calista gave the coffee cup a quick nce, and surprisingly, she ended up taking it.


    Seeing Calista holding the coffee cup, Yelena secretly clenched her fist. She had added a lot of vinegar to the coffee. If Calista drank it, she would surely get angry! By then, Benedict, seeing Calista''s unreasonable behavior, would certainly side with her. At least, that was what Yelena believed.


    If Calista refused to drink it, Benedict would realize how inhuman Calista was, that even when she was on her knees, Calista showed no sign of empathy.


    As such, Yelena believed she would win regardless of what happened.


    Lowering her head, Calista took a sniff and asked with a smile, "What kind of coffee is this?"


    "Apple cidertte..." Yelena said timidly. At first nce, she really looked like an innocent woman who had been bullied.


    "Apple cider?" Calista chuckled lightly, taking a sip. A sour and astringent taste exploded on her taste buds, causing her to narrow her eyes slightly. Yelena held her breath in anticipation of the impending storm, all the while readying herself for protection!


    Upon seeing Calista sipping her coffee, Benedict breathed a sigh of relief. "Aren''t you going to get up? Callie has forgiven you!"


    Yelena was somewhat baffled because that wasn''t what she had envisioned! Why hasn''t Calista lost her temper yet?


    Thus, she hesitated and finally plucked up the courage to ask, "Callie, is it good? It''s my first time making this. I don''t have much experience."


    "It tastes quite good." Calista held the cup up, smiling as she looked at Yelena. "You said you realized your mistakes, that you want to start anew, and you even begged for my forgiveness. I can do that and believe you, but only if you finish this cup of coffee. How does that sound?" A stiff expression crossed Yelena''s face. "This is... You''ve drunk from this already-"


    Calista found that she truly enjoyed teasing Yelena. With a rxed smile, she asked, "Are you disgusted?"


    "No..." Yelena felt as if she had shot herself in the foot, especially with Benedict watching right beside her. Her chest heaved, and in the end, she managed to squeeze out a forced smile.


    "I''ll drink!" As she spoke, she took the coffee cup.


    However, she had overestimated herself. Earlier, in an attempt to provoke Calista, she had added too much cacao nibs and vinegar to the drink. Thus, drinking that coffee was practically a death sentence! Originally, Yelena intended to down her drink in one go, but after just a sip, she couldn''t help but feel the urge to vomit!


    It seemed as though Calista knew Yelena couldn''t handle it. The moment Yelena took a sip, Calista swiftly covered the former''s mouth! "Swallow it down. If you dare to spit it out, I''ll make you lick it clean!"


    At that moment, Yelena was reminded of the night when Calista had ruthlessly insisted she swallow the money. With a sudden rxation in her throat, she actually managed to swallow it down!


    After swallowing, Yelena hastily attempted to get up and find some water to drink. However, Calista held Yelena down by the shoulder, making it impossible for her even to stand.


    "Why are you running?" Calista''s voice remained steady, yet it carried an undeniable authority. She took the cup with a cold, mocking smile. "Weren''t you begging for my forgiveness? Howe you can''t even finish a cup of coffee?" At that point, Benedict also realized something was afoot, that coffee seemed to be more than it appeared.


    Tears welled up in Yelena''s eyes because of the overwhelming bitterness. Yet, she found herself instinctively making excuses. "Callie, I''m sorry. I identally added too much apple cider. I''ll go make a new cup right away!"


    "No worries," Calista said good-naturedly as she sat on the couch. She spread her legs and leaned in toward her. "Once you finish that cup, I won''t hold it against you."


    Yelena''s face showed an expression of shock and terror. If I drink this, will I even survive?


    "No... I..." Yelena struggled, but before she could finish her sentence, Calista had already squeezed the cup and made the older woman take another sip!


    Yelena was cornered, truly wanting to vomit all over Calista! Yet, it was as if Calista knew what Yelena was nning. Calista used one hand to pour the coffee while her other skillfully held Yelena''s chin, forcing thetter to swallow! One was kneeling, and the other was seated. One was dominant, and the other was forced to endure.


    As Calista poured the coffee down Yelena''s throat, she chuckled and said, "How delightful. This is the first time I tasted a cup of coffee brewed by you. It doesn''t matter if it tastes bad. What''s important is the sentiment. I suppose after today, you won''t make such a distasteful brew again, right? I''m looking forward to it."


    Calista''s starry eyes, glinting coldly, were right in front of Yelena. As Yelena''s pupils dted in shock, Calista grinned cruelly. The scar her face suddenly seemed much more terrifying, causing Yelena''s chest to tighten! She felt as if the Grim Reaper had a grip on her life!


    She''s a devil! Yelena was greatly shaken, turning to Benedict in a desperate plea for help. However, Benedict was far from pleased with her, knowing she had done


    UT


    something to the coffee earlier He turned his head away, leaving Calista with an easy opportunity to force Yelena to drink an entire cup of something both sour and bitter. Not a single drop was wasted.


    After everything was done, Yelenay on the carpet, wing at her own throat as though she wanted to vomit, appearing to be in unbearable difort.

 Chapter 398 Wash Carpet

    At that moment, Calista''s voice came from above, causing Yelena''s tear-streaked face to twitch uncontrobly. "You''ve dirtied the carpet." "No... I didn''t!" replied Yelena.


    "Take it to the yard and give it a proper wash. I''ll have Richard fetch the water for you."


    Yelena panicked because her hands would surely not be able to bear scrubbing the carpet in that kind of weather.


    "You seem unwilling." Calista looked at Yelena with a troubled expression.


    "Benedict... Benedict..." The look in Calista''s eyes genuinely frightened Yelena, causing her to fall before Benedict in a plea for help. However, Yelena''s makeup was smeared by tears, making her look like a ghost. How could she possibly stir up any sympathy from Benedict, especially considering that she had been dishonest first?


    "All this fuss over a simple mistake, honestly! I''m not going to care about this anymore!" After Benedict finished speaking, he left the room with a stern expression, leaving Yelena helplessly staring at his retreating figure.


    Behind Yelena was the faintughter of Calista. "If you don''t finish cleaning today, there won''t be any dinner for you."


    Calista found being the bad guy incredibly satisfying, especially when seeing the other party powerless to resist. It made her want to torment Yelena mercilessly!


    "Of course, if you think it''s too cruel to make you scrub the carpet with cold water in this freezing weather, the door is right there. You''re wee to leave at your own pace. No need for me to see you out." With a single sentence, Calista had grasped Yelena''s lifeline. Yelena red at Calista with resentment, wishing she could tear thetter to pieces! "How could you be so heartless? I was once your stepmother! Aren''t you afraid of others talking behind your back for treating me like this?"


    Calista stood up, crossing her arms as she stared at Yelena sprawled on the carpet, a picture of disarray. "I don''t care. After all, I learned all these from you. Enjoy it."


    After saying that, she ascended the stairs with a smile.


    Staring at Calista''s retreating figure, Yelena was frantic. How can I get my revenge on Calista? I don''t care what happens to me as long as I can retaliate against Calista! After all, Quincy had already been released from prison. Maybe I can perish together with Calista! That wild idea flickered in her mind for a moment, but she quickly suppressed it because she wasn''t ready to die. No, I''ll just bear with it for now! After all, Calista will be leaving in a week. All I have to do is endure this week. That''s all.


    On the staircase, Calista watched as Yelena silently went about gathering the carpet, smiling faintly. I bet she''s thinking she can just endure this, but a week it''s not that short.


    A lot had been happening recently in the bustling Horington. After nearly two years ofying low, Kallum had made a dramatic return to the business world. His first move was to target the Ingram family, causing a stir in the entire businessmunity. His actions were a bold deration of his presence!


    The Ingram family was struggling to protect itself, so it was only natural that Quincy would not choose to follow them into ruin. Upon learning that Quincy had returned to the Wolford family, Yelena started to entertain other thoughts.


    If Yelena couldn''t stay with the Stafford family long-term, it would be nice if her daughter could take her in. Although the Wolford family was nearly ruined, they could still ensure the mother and daughter had enough to eat and stay warm. Unfortunately, Yelena couldn''t meet Quincy, so she thought of making her move through Benedict.


    Calista didn''t care about all that. At that moment, she was at the Sinir residence, having Ambrose paint her portrait.


    After the final follow-up appointment, Ambrose had fully recovered. However, just as Calista was about to leave, he pulled her back. "Callie, may I paint one final portrait of you?"


    Calista looked into Ambrose''s clear eyes, and before her mind could catch up, her body had already agreed.


    At that moment, Ambrose seemed as though he had received something incredibly precious, his eyes crinkling with joy as heughed.


    Halfway through her painting,


    Calista found herself growing


    drowsy under the winter sun. At that


    moment Ambrose unexpectedly asked a question, with a paintbrush held between his teeth. "Callie, do you really have feelings for Kallum?"


    Calista was taken aback, but didn''t respond.


    Ambrose then asked, "Why aren''t you with him then?"


    As he was sketching, he nced at her expression. "What''s bothering you?"


    She had been back home for two days and found a rare moment to dodge that question. Yet, it was brought up again. Facing Ambrose, she sighed inwardly. "I suppose a part of me is feeling reluctant."


    The speed at which Ambrose


    painted began to slow down.


    Suddenly, a sense of maturity, utterly unrted to his youthful appearance, emerged on his clean and handsome face. "Do you want to find someone simpler, to have a simpler romance and lead a simpler life?"


    "Is such a life really possible? It sounds quite desirable..." However, Calista couldn''t help but smile, finally shaking her head, "All of that seems too far away from me." Ambrose chuckled, a hint of bitterness flickering unintentionally in his usually radiant eyes. "That''s true..."


    "Is the painting finished?"


    "It''s done!"


    "May I take a look?"


    Ambrose quickly stepped in to intervene. It was rare to see him showing such a yful side. "You''re not allowed to look. This is the recovery gift you gave me!" Calista simply shrugged indifferently. "I heard you''re nning to take the university entrance exam? How''s your preparation going?"


    Ambrose was not only self-studying


    but also asionally attending school. Rumor had it that he was


    considering taking the universitet


    entrance exam the following year, though it was uncertain how confident he was.


    Ambrose''s handsome face blushed slightly.

 Chapter 399 Did Not See Painting

    "I''m not entirely confident, but my brother told me all I need to do is give it a shot," replied Ambrose. Calista nodded. "All right, I''ve lingered here for long enough. It''s time for me to leave. Will you walk me out?" With a frown, Ambrose muttered, "That was fast..."


    "What?"


    "No, let me send you out!"


    From beginning to end, Calista never saw Ambrose''s painting.


    As he was leaving, there were several instances where he seemed to want to speak but held his tongue.


    Calista remarked, "You seem quite odd today. Is there something you want to say?"


    Ambrose blushed. As he gazed into Calista''s overly bright eyes, he felt his normally steady heart begin to race uncontrobly. "Callie... if..."


    "Hmm?" When dealing with Ambrose, Calista always disyed a touch more patience than with others.


    "If... If..." He stammered, even though he only needed a second to say a sentence that he had been rehearsing in his mind all day long.


    He gritted his teeth, leaning in close to Calista''s ear. "If you no longer have feelings for Kallum, would you consider being with a younger man?" The smile on Calista''s face froze.


    The clear voice of Ambrose once again resounded with unwavering determination. "I sensed thatpared to your current life, you seemed to prefer simplicity and freedom. I don''t have much to offer, but I like you, in and simple."


    Calista looked up to see his youthful smile, her mind still somewhat dazed. Under the setting sun, by the grand mansion''s gate, Ambrose bashfully pressed a finger to her lips, smiling gently. "You don''t need to respond, nor feel burdened. I hope that my affection for you is as simple as the sun''s love for the wind, or a sail''s love for the sea. If you need me, I''m here. If you don''t, I''m still here, just like a friend."


    On her way back, Calista grinned. Ambrose''s words had given her strength. His affection was so pure that it didn''t exert any pressure. Instead, it brought her a sense of joy.


    However, that joyful mood vanished the moment she returned home.


    Yelena was serving the dishes with a radiant smile, the picture of a dutiful and virtuous housewife. Calista nced at her watch. It was the thirteenth, and five days were left, but that was more than enough time for Calista to deal with Yelena.


    "You''ve returned, Ms. Calista?" Yelena was a bit restrained, primarily due to theirst encounter. The memory of Calista forcing her to scrub the carpet with that fierce demeanor was still fresh in her mind. As she scrubbed the carpet, she made a firm resolution to steer clear of Calista''s fury.


    Rather than confronting Calista


    head-on, Yelena thought it would be


    better to wait until the former


    returned to the Fairchild residence to make a move. After all, manipting Benedict was a piece of cake for Yelena.


    Calista smirked. "It smells quite delightful. I didn''t expect you to be able to cook."


    Yelena couldn''t help but wonder why Calista hadn''t eaten out before returning. Calista''s return at that moment made Yelena miss a golden opportunity.


    With a slightly embarrassed expression, Yelena said, "I just made some, that''s all."


    Calista walked in with a smile and confidence.


    Even Benedict was quite apprehensive of her.


    "Callie, you haven''t eaten yet?" Benedict asked with a smile.


    Calista nodded. "Yeah, I made it just in time. I''ve never had the chance to Mdm. Langley''s cooking before."


    Yelena hurriedly brought over a bowl of pasta to Calista and said with a hint of nervousness, "It''s just some home cooking, Ms. Calista. Please, have a taste."


    As she spoke, she took a seat. Calista''s eyebrows raised slightly. The crisscrossing scars on her face were somewhat unsettling. "Since when did housekeepers start dining with their masters?"


    "Callie..." Benedict sighed, holding his bowl. "She said she''d only stay for two months and then leave. You rarelye back, so for the next few days, don''t-"


    "I ask again. When are housekeepers allowed to dine with their masters?" Calista put down her fork, her tone heavy as she emphasized her question.


    Benedict''s expression stiffened, and he nced at Yelena with a hint of difort.


    17.


    Surprisingly, Yelena was incrediblypliant, even though she was seething with resentment inside! Still, she swallowed her anger and spoke with unmistakable grievance. "It''s all right. You two eat. I''ll just go to the kitchen and whip up some pasta for myself."


    Benedict felt a twinge of guilt while Calista asked nonchntly. "Why make more pasta? With all this food, isn''t it enough for you to wait for the leftovers?"


    Calista''s words changed Yelena''s expression instantly! No matter how destitute Yelena had be, she had never stooped to the level of living off others'' leftovers. Calista was clearly trying to humiliate her! Even Benedict showed a look of disagreement. "Callie!"


    Calista spoke nonchntly. "When I was a kid and Dad wasn''t home, I couldn''t sit at the table for meals. I always ate what Mdm. Langley and Quincy left behind. If I could eat that, why couldn''t she?"


    Her voice was soft, yet it struck Benedict like a bolt of lightning. He stared at Yelena in disbelief, while Yelena, flustered, stammered out, "I didn''t¡ª"


    "Heh." Calista twirled her fork. "You


    didn''t? Why do you think I had Mdm. Langley clean the carpets yesterday? It''s because she demanded the same of me. I could


    do it when I was only thirteen, so why is it so cruel when it''s her turn? Yesterday, she was crying and begging the driver to help her clean the carpets, acting as if I''ve mistreated her. In reality, I was


    merely following her example."

 Chapter 400 Disappointed Me

    "I... I didn''t. Benedict, I really didn''t... How could I..." Yelena paled with fright.


    Meanwhile, Benedict, bristling with anger, abruptly stood up! "So this is how you act when I''m not around? What kind of stepmother are you? I trusted you! You''ve truly disappointed me!"


    After speaking, Benedict nced at Calista but didn''t say anything out of guilt toward her and went straight upstairs. He did feel sympathy for Yelena, but if her past actions were brought up, he would still be angry. It was just that he couldn''t bring himself to drive her away. Seeing that Benedict wouldn''t listen to her exnation and had already assumed that she had done such a thing, Yelena was in a state of panic and confusion. She was both angry and afraid, but more than that, she was filled with a sense of despair and the painful realization of her reality!


    It had only been two years. Before, when she was in that family, she had everything at her beck and call. How did everything change so suddenly?


    "Are you satisfied now?" In a fit of uncontroble rage, Yelena yelled at Calista. She knew she shouldn''t have spoken, knew she should have held her tongue! However, seeing Benedict leave and her meticulously prepared dinner, which was a whole afternoon''s work, ultimately benefiting Calista, she felt a surge of bitterness rise in her chest. She regretted not having poisoned the food!


    Calista was sipping stew from a bowl, her eyshes casting a downward shadow. "I find you to be quite peculiar."


    Faced with Yelena, who was raging like a storm as if about to lose her sanity, Calista remained as calm and indifferent as a block of ice. "Are you not being a bit too hypocritical when treating others and yourself? You had me washing clothes in the dead of winter, saying it was to encourage my independence. You made me eat leftovers, iming it was my duty. Yet, when the tables are turned, you act as if you''ve suffered the greatest injustice. Do you think everyone in the world is your mother?"


    At that point, she looked at Yelena''s pale face and smiled. "Oh, I almost forgot. You cut off contact with your mother for your father''s money. She died sick in bed, and you didn''t even visit her onest time. Now, with how Quincy is treating you, don''t you feel anything?" Upon hearing her words, Yelena clutched her chest, almost failing to catch her breath! What does Calista mean by that? Is she implying this is retribution? No way! Quincy is not that kind of person!


    Yelena wanted to retort, but in the end, she clutched her chest, gasping for air like a fish out of water! Her thin and gloomy face contorted, and her entire face eventually turned a ghastly shade of blue-purple! Calista scoffed, speaking with a tone of pity.


    "Look at you. You''re pitiful. You''ve pampered Quincy since childhood, indulging her every whim. However, whenever she needed you, she yed the victim card. And when she didn''t need you, you couldn''t even catch a glimpse of her. Now, she''s returned to the Wolford family to be its heiress. Do you think she remembers who you are? It''s pathetic. You saw her imprisoned and did everything you could to get her out. However, once she was free, she didn''t care whether you lived or died. I tell you, you''re quickly following in your mother''s footsteps."


    "Enough! Quincy isn''t like that! She''s just upset about the things I did in the past. She wouldn''t treat me this way!" Yelena attempted to seize Calista''s arm as she spoke.


    Calista, somewhat repulsed, shrugged her off. Yelena retreated in quick session as if she was as light as a piece of paper. She ended up sitting on the ground, mumbling to herself as though in a daze, "Quincy isn''t that kind of person..." Calista rubbed the spot where she had been bumped into, scowling.


    "The apple doesn''t fall far from the tree, does it? Just think about what kind of person she is. She inherited her sweet tongue and bitter heart from you. The way you used others in the past that''s exactly how Quincy will use you. Do you believe me when I say she might be hoping for your death right now? Once you''re gone, any scandal associated with her will fade in a few years. Yelena, if you truly love your daughter, shouldn''t you be begging for forgiveness in front of me, even if it means taking your own life? Maybe if I pity you, I might spare Quincy." Her words grew


    increasingly harsh, each one more biting than thest.


    Yelena couldn''t handle the provocation. Suddenly, she sprang up and shouted, "D*mn you!"


    Calista casually sidestepped, and


    with a casual hook of her foot, Yelena lunged across the dining table! The dishes Yelena had painstakingly prepared all afternoon were smeared all over her face. As she struggled, the bowls and tes on the table shattered on the ground with a tter, making her look utterly disheveled!


    Upon witnessing Yelena copse onto the dining table, sobbing uncontrobly, Calista merely cast a nonchnt nce at the tes scattered on the floor. She spoke softly. "The finely crafted tableware from Blossom Porcin Studio cost ten thousand a set. I hope you canpensate for them before you leave." Yelena paused for a moment before her crying became even more heartbreaking!


    For the next two days, Calista found various ways to bother Yelena. Much to her surprise, Yelena didn''t lose her temper anymore. She was like y in Calista''s hands and was eager for Calista to leave so she could be free. Even her behavior toward Benedict had be significantly more honest.


    Calista thought, However, if she thinks she could keep staying here like this, she is far too naive.


    In the afternoon, Calista received a sudden call from Kallum. Those past few days, he had always called before going to bed, so Calista was surprised he was calling at that time.


    After the call connected, before Calista could even speak, the somewhat anxious voice of Kallum came through. "Callie, are you home?"


    "I am," replied Calista.


    "Don''t go anywhere. No matter what happens outside, don''t leave. I''ll send someone over to protect you very soon!"

 Chapter 401 Signed Peace Agreement

    Calista sat up. "What happened?"


    Kallum sounded like he was outside, the whistling wind inexplicably causing anxiety.


    "The government of Lostaria had officially signed a peace agreement yesterday. However, the instigator of this war, Kiefer, had seen the unfavorable turn of events and fled early on. Despite the joint manhunt issued by thirteen countries, he remained elusive." Kallum''s tone grew serious. "However, just now, one of my informants reported that they spotted Kiefer. Although we''re not certain if it''s true, I''m worried about you. Stay at home, and don''t go anywhere. Quintus is already on his way to you. He''ll be there in ten minutes!"


    Calista was taken aback. "You sent Quintus?"


    Quintus was a meticulous man, highly trusted and relied upon. When he arrived, he would surely bring with him a considerable number of Parker Guards.


    "How could you still be sending people my way at a time like this? If it really is Kiefer, you''re definitely his target! What you''re doing is far too dangerous!" rebutted Calista.


    "I''m perfectly safe, so there was no need to worry about me. Everything is settled with Benedict as well. All you need to do is follow my instructions. Please, don''t go out and cause me to worry, all right?" asked Kallum.


    Calista had a lot to say, but in the end, she only uttered, "Regardless, you should be careful yourself."


    Kallum grinned surprisingly, even in such a tense moment. "I''m happy!"


    "Hmm?"


    "That you''re worried about me¡ª"


    But before he could finish his sentence, a flurry of gunshots rang out from his end! The sound made Calista''s scalp tingle with unease!


    ¡°Kallum? Kallum!" She called out a few times, but after a burst of noise, a busy tone suddenly came from Kallum''s phone. When Calista tried to call back, she couldn''t get through!


    Kallum''s spection was spot on! That bunch of ouws had indeede looking for him!


    However, when Kallum needed people the most, he had almost half of them assigned to protect Calista instead. Of course, Calista was infuriated, especially when Kiefer might not even know of her existence. Kallum''s decision was truly unwise in her eyes.


    Calista wanted to go to him, but she knew very well that a real fight had already broken out there. She realized that her presence would only cause more trouble for Kallum, and wouldn''t be of any help.


    Since Kallum had even arranged her father''s affairs, it was clear that he had made thorough preparations and should be fine. If she rushed over recklessly, she might just disrupt his ns, so she mustn''t panic!


    Calista stood up, then sat back down. Just then, her cell phone rang again.


    It was an email. Confused, Calista opened it. All it contained was a single image.


    It was a picture of a girl taking a brief rest on a floral trellis and a boy delicately moving in to kiss her cheek.


    The girl was her, and the boy was Ambrose.


    At that moment, Jarrett''s call came through. With a sense of foreboding, Calista reluctantly answered.


    "Calista, Ambrose has disappeared!" said Jarrett.


    Apparently, after ss, Ambrose was not met by the bodyguards sent by Jarrett. Initially, Jarrett assumed he was the one being targeted. However, heter received a text message asking to see Calista and threatening Ambrose''s life.


    Calista furrowed her brow. That


    series of events led her to one conclusion, which was that they were dealing with more than just one group of people. Those people had teamed up, striking when she and Kallum were apart, picking them off one by one. What she hadn''t anticipated was an innocent person getting caught in the crossfire.


    Calista recalled the ambush she experienced during herst visit to the Sinir residence. It seemed that the opposition recognized the value Ambrose held in her heart, which was why they simply decided to kidnap him.


    Jarrett''s voice faltered for a moment. "Since they''re targeting you, they must have reached out to you by now. Whether youe or not is up to you. He is my brother, so I will definitely save him! You... Be careful."


    After he finished speaking, he ended the call.


    Calista held her phone in contemtion, reopening the email once more. The painting attached appeared to have been treasured


    and carefully rolled up, likely the


    work of Ambrose from a few days ago before she left. Even though there were scars on her face, his depiction of her did not have those scars.


    Calista shook her head, smiling bitterly. Should I save him or not?


    Calista was somewhat hesitant, and it was no wonder she appeared cold-hearted. The opponent was a ruthless Character, and they came prepared. If she attempted a rescue, sess was far from guaranteed. More likely, she might end up endangering herself as well.


    At that moment, Calista''s phone buzzed again. A video had been sent to her. She


    had a sinking feeling about it, but in the end, she reached out and opened it.


    "Yell, make it more agonizing!" A foreign, bearded man yanked Ambrose''s hair, clutching the thorny twig on thetter''s chest.


    Ambrose''s clothes had already been torn away, revealing his slender and frail figure. In the darkness, the paleplexion of his body was marred by a series of vivid red whip marks, which stood out starkly!


    That horrific scene made Calista''s pupils contract. Ambrose''s eyes flickered across the screen, a mix of panic and resilience. He gritted his teeth and said, "Just kill me!"


    The manughed as his rough hand gave Ambrose a squeeze. His voice was deep and somber as he spoke. "You have such a beautiful body. I haven''t had my fill of you. How could I bear to let you die?"


    Upon seeing Ambrose about to bite his tongue, the man hastily stuffed something into the former''s mouth. Underneath his disheveled, damp hair, Ambrose''s clear eyes were filled with utter despair. He began to struggle desperately!

 Chapter 402 Ambrose In Danger

    Seeing Ambrose''s struggle, the man fiercelyshed him twice with a whip! He then used a camera to capture Ambrose''s pitiful condition.


    Blood trickled down Ambrose''s pale body. The shattered beauty of pure white,ced with profound malice, was somehow more captivating than taking drugs.


    The burly man swallowed, finally giving the camera a lecherous grin as he spoke. "I''m only giving you half an hour. If you''re not at Catfish Harbor in that time, he''s done for! Rest assured, I''ll make sure to record his pitiful state for you to see! When the timees, you can go fish his body out of the water! Remember, you only have half an hour!"


    After he finished speaking, the screen flickered and then went dark.


    Calista sat on the edge of the bed, her hand clutching the phone was trembling! How dare they? How could they dare to touch someone as innocent and pure as Ambrose?


    A storm of malice swirled within her shadowy eyes. She was suddenly reminded of Ambrose''s untarnished smile each time he saw her. Yet, just as quickly, she was confronted by the image of him ensnared in darkness and subjected to torment. Her fingers trembled slightly. Her hand hadn''t fully healed, but at that moment, she was ovee with the desire to wring someone''s neck!


    Just at that moment, Quintus barged in with his men. Seeing that Calista was still there, he let out a long sigh of relief. "Ms. Calista, it''s good that you''re at home. Kiefer has shown up, and the authorities have already dispatched people. However, it''s extremely dangerous outside right now, so you mustn''t leave!"


    However, just as he finished speaking, Calista suddenly stood up and walked toward the desk.


    "Ms. Calista?" Quintus stared at her in shock and saw her pull a gun out of the drawer!


    That was a custom firearm given to Calista by Kallum for self-defense, something she had never used before.


    A sense of foreboding rose within Quintus'' heart. "Are you heading out?"


    Calista gave him a cold nce, methodically loading bullets one by one. Simultaneously, she inquired, "How many people did you bring?"


    Upon hearing Calista''s words, Quintus tensed up, instinctively replying, "Ten Parker Guards and fifteen Ludlow Guards."


    The bodyguards, all trained by the Fairchild family, had been put to work ensuring her safety. Kallum had certainly gone to great lengths for her.


    Calista''s lips slightly curled into a smile. "Great, let''s go somewhere."


    Quintus desperately wanted to stop her. Horington was in utter chaos at the moment, so it was far too dangerous to venture out! However, there was an intimidating aura about Calista that made Quintus swallow his words bit by bit. "What are you nning to do?"


    Calista firmly secured the magazine, narrowing her eyes as she spoke harshly. "I''m going to murder someone!"


    Ten ck sedans roared their way toward Catfish Harbor. Previously a small fishing vige renowned for its abundant catfish, it had since


    evolved into a major warehouse


    district for Horington. People came and went as all sorts of transactions took ce there. It was a part of the city that was both prosperous and chaotic.


    As the sun gradually set on the horizon, Calista''s expression also progressively darkened.


    If Horatio is colluding with Kiefer,


    given Horatio''s status, how could he possibly sway Kiefer? The only usible scenario is that Horatio is exploiting Kiefer, informing him that I''m Kallum''s greatest vulnerability. As long as m captured, Kallum will undoubtedly be at their mercy. If Kiefer captures me and uses me to threaten Kallum, my worth will have ended there. It would have been perfectly logical for Horatio to take me away then. When the timees, Horatio will emerge victorious. Whether it''s the Stafford family or Kallum, they can all be used to coerce me into prolonging his life. If he seeds, he''d kill multiple birds with one stone. He should keep dreaming. Calista closed his eyes, pondering over any information that could be of use. Catfish Harbor, Catfish Harbor... Why does this name sound so familiar? Have I heard it somewhere in my previous life?


    Information shed through her mind like data streams, one after another. Finally, she opened her eyes, a mysterious glimmer surfacing within them. I see. It''s that Catfish Harbor.


    Calista gave Quintus a series of instructions, one after another. Quintus looked at her in surprise but didn''t say anything. He simply nodded and went off to carry them out.


    Consequently, out of the original ten cars, nine had gone in different directions, and there was still no contact from Kallum''s side.


    Quintus said, "There''s no need for you to worry about Mr. Kallum. However, if you proceed with this, and he learns this, he will be very concerned."


    "Then let''s not let him know." When Calista spoke, her gaze was fixed firmly on Quintus. Quintus recoiled slightly, and in the end, he gritted his teeth and agreed.


    He thought that as long as Calista was safe, Kallum wouldn''t cause him trouble. After all, his duty was simply to protect Calisa!


    Moreover, he was no match for Calista.


    Meanwhile, a burst of gunfire erupted, and the previously deserted warehouse was suddenly flooded with a host of uniformed men in ck!


    Upon seeing the neers through the camera, Horatio muttered a curse under


    his breath, then spoke to the foreign hulk standing by his side. "It''s Jarrett''s


    people."


    This foreign man was a loyal subordinate of Kiefer. His name was David.


    Just like Uriah, Kiefer had been brainwashing his subordinates since they were young. He had no worries about them betraying him as their minds had already been significantly eroded by drugs.


    Just moments ago, Horatio


    intervened to stop David from taking


    action against Ambrose. In


    response, David almost had a falling out with him! It was only after


    Horatio''s persuasive and coercive arguments that David decided to show leniency and gave Ambrose a pass.


    Even so, David was extremely dissatisfied, throwing a tantrum and smashing


    things everywhere.


    Although he gave Calista half an hour, he had absolutely no resistance toward attractive young men and women. All he wanted to do was to devour them wholeheartedly.

 Chapter 403 Jarrett Enraged

    Horatio was cursing in his mind, but outwardly, he continued to analyze point by point. "Mr. David, do you now understand why I told you not toy a finger on Ambrose? That boy is the apple of Jarrett''s eye. If he gets hurt only a little, Jarrett will refrain from taking rash actions for fear of the consequences. However, if you harm Ambrose, Jarrett will definitely fight us tooth and nail! Right now, when we need all hands on deck to dy Kallum, we simply can''t afford to face another powerful enemy."


    David huffed in dissatisfaction, "You Chanaeans sure overthink things. You said you could handle this person, so why are you still here?"


    "Right, right, I''m on it," Horatio agreed, not keen on prolonging the conversation with David. He quickly led his group to meet Jarrett.


    The firefight between the two sides had barelysted a quarter of an hour, yet many were already dead or injured. Jarrett was truly enraged. Out of everyone, they dared to harm his younger brother. Thus, if anything happened to Ambrose, he would drag them to hell with him, even if it cost him his life!


    Horatio emerged at that very moment.


    "Mr. Jarrett, please keep calm," he pleaded, gripping Ambrose''s arm. Ambrose had been flogged, his upper garment stripped away, revealing the bloody traces of his punishment. The sight made Jarrett''s pupils contract in horror!


    "What do you want?" Jarrett wasn''t wearing his sses. His icy gaze was fixed directly on Horatio, causing the smile on Horatio''s face to freeze momentarily before he rposed himself after a couple of seconds.


    "I want Calista." Horatio stated inly, not beating around the bush. "As long as you can secure Calista, I will return Mr. Ambrose to you. I heard you and Mr. Ambrose have been relying on each other since childhood. Meanwhile, Calista is just a woman. You should know what to do, right?"


    "You want me to hand over Calista?" Jarrett scoffed as if he''d just heard a joke.


    "That''s right!" Horatio snorted. "I know you have some ties with Calista, but surely she can''tpare to the importance of your own brother? Besides, using you against her will definitely catch her off guard. It all depends on whether you''ll go along with it-"


    Jarrett scoffed, "Calista is under the protection of Kallum. She won''t show up." ¡°That might not be the case,¡± Horatio said with a mysterious smile. ¡°My sources tell me Calista has left with a group. However, she''s surrounded by a hefty number of Fairchild family bodyguards. Capturing her by force could be a bit of a challenge. Mr. Jarrett, make your choice! Will you save your brother and help us capture her, or will you stand by and watch your brother die?"


    "If he dies, do you really think any of you could walk away alive?"


    The cell phone that Jarrett kept in his pocket had been in call mode.


    Horatio said, "My time is running out anyway, so rather than waiting for death, I choose to take a gamble! Enough with the chatter! When Calista arrives with her crew, all we need is for you to hold them off, Mr. Jarrett!"


    Upon hearing the conversation on her phone, Calistaughed softly. Knowing that Ambrose was okay eased her anxiety. She didn''t want such an unblemished individual to be harmed. However, dealing with a group of desperate ouws was akin to courting death. Thus, to ensure Ambrose''s safety, she must eliminate every single one of them!


    "He wants to capture me? Well, let''s see if you can." Calista turned to Quintus and said, "Proceed as nned."


    "Understood!" replied Quintus.


    A ck sedan rolled into Catfish Harbor, and upon receiving the news, both Jarrett and Horatio held their breaths.


    Jarrett thought, Since Calista knows Horatio''s intentions, she probably isn''t walking right into danger. Still, Horatio has hidden with his people, hoping that I will capture Calista as he wanted. That''ll save him a significant amount of effort and also r¨¦duce the chances of exposing himself!


    The vehicle came to a halt, and only one person emerged from it. The person didn''t even nce at Jarrett as he directed his words toward the warehouse. "I''m Derek. I want to see your leader!"


    Calista hadn''t shown up, which left Horatio panicking a little.


    David, in particr, was livid at Calista''s absence! "Didn''t you say she was definitely going toe? Where is she?"


    Horatio paled, gritting his teeth. "I am going to meet this person and see what kind of game Calista is ying!"


    Then, Horatio ventured out alone. Ambrose had fallen into the hands of David, though faced with the enemy at hand, David seemed to know his limits. He pointed his gun at Ambrose, his entire body on high alert.


    That was their strongest bargaining chip, so they couldn''t afford any slip-ups.


    In front of the warehouse, Horatio cast a doubtful gaze toward Jarrett, then addressed Derek. "Where is Calista?"


    At that point, he already had a


    thorough falling out with the


    Fairchild family. With the Ingram family divided, he could persist in his own way without being stopped by anyone. In order to survive, Horatio had reached a point where he disregarded everything else.


    Derek said, "Ms. Calista is waiting for you at the fishing yard."


    The fishing yard was a vast fish-drying yard. It was open on all sides, allowing the breeze to flow freely. Apart from a few low-built sheds, there were no obstructions, offering an unobstructed view of the entire area.


    "What kind of game are you ying?" Horatio felt uneasy about that. Derek remained silent, only passing over his phone. After a moment of hesitation, Horatio picked up the call.


    Calista''s somewhat cold voice came through from the other side of the phone. "Mr. Ingram."


    "Calista! Why aren''t youing over? Don''t you care about Ambrose''s life anymore?"


    Calista chuckled lightly. "It''s because of him that I''vee. Otherwise, why do you think I wouldn''t stayfortably at home?"

 Chapter 404 Divide And Conquer

    Before Horatio could say anything, Calista was the first to speak.


    "No doubt you coborated with Kiefer to get your hands on me. However, Kiefer is a wanted criminal in thirteen countries. While you''re still under the radar, why do you need to keep mingling with him if I agree to extend your life?"


    Calista''s words gradually calmed down the tense and overexcited mind of Horatio. "Don''t you think it''s a bit toote saying all this now?" questioned Horatio.


    By that point, Jarrett already knew that Horatio was involved with Kiefer. It was toote for Horatio to leave.


    "It''s not toote," Calista''s somewhat enchanting voice came through. "As long as I''m in your hands, you can use me to threaten Kallum and keep yourself safe. Given that, why would you help Kiefer capture me? What if, after he catches me, he breaks his agreement with you and kills me to provoke Kallum? Without me, you''re surely doomed. Now, there''s a shorter path to take. You wouldn''t want to take the long way around, would you?"


    Calista''s words made Horatio break out in a cold sweat. Indeed, he harbored such concerns. The aura around Kiefer and his gang was intense and aggressive. Coborating with such people left him feeling utterly uncertain and uneasy.


    "How... How can I capture you?" Horatio hesitated for a moment, then suddenly asked in a hushed tone.


    Calistaughed. "Bring Ambrose to the fishing yard now, and I''ll trade myself for him. If you''re worried about an ambush, you can send a drone first to scout. The fishing yard are open on all sides, so I couldn''t possibly ambush you. And if you''re still scared, bring as many people as you want. How does that sound?"


    Horatio felt that something was off, yet Calista''s proposition was incredibly tempting. If it were possible, he truly wished to extricate himself from Kiefer''s clutches. Otherwise, even if he survived, he was doomed to live the life of a fugitive.


    Moreover, with Ambrose in his control, he reckoned that Calista wouldn''t dare to act recklessly.


    After a swift moment of contemtion, Horatio nodded in agreement.


    "You better not try any tricks, or else I''ll definitely drag Ambrose down with me!" he warned with a stern face.


    Calista gave a lightugh, and without saying anything further, she hung up the phone.


    After a moment of contemtion, Horatio slowly made his way back.


    "What''s going on?" David was an impatient man, and as soon as he saw the shift in Horatio''s gaze, he asked.


    "Calista demanded that we head to the fishing yard for a hostage exchange!"


    "D*mn it, why doesn''t shee here? Get her here!" David''s ent was particrly pronounced, especially when he was angry.


    Horatio said, "Don''t worry, the fishing yard are open and unobstructed on all sides. She won''t have a chance to ambush us there. She probably chose that location because she''s afraid that we might capture her after she arrives, but still won''t let Ambrose go. At the fishing yard, she can easily shove Ambrose into a car and let him escape, which will put her at ease."


    Seeing that David was about to speak, Horatio continued, "There''s no time for hesitation. Your master is still waiting for Calista! Hand over Ambrose to me."


    David was somewhat puzzled. "I''m not going with you?"


    Horatio''s eyes flickered. "You stay back and keep Jarrett in check. After all, we still have Ambrose under our control. He won''t dare to act recklessly."


    David was a bit confused, yet he felt like what he was doing wasn''t necessarily wrong. Thus, in his state of confusion, he handed Ambrose over.


    Horatio managed to lead Ambrose out of the warehouse through the back door without alerting Jarrett. Furthermore, in order to protect himself, he had all of his men apany them. That way, he was safely concealed within the crowd, unafraid of any potential ambush.


    Having noticed that there was no activity in the warehouse for quite some time,


    Jarrett asked Derek, "What on earth is Calista up to?"


    In response, Derek fell silent for a moment, then whispered three words, "Divide and conquer."


    Jarrett frowned. "They still have Ambrose in their grasp."


    Derek said, "It''s all right."


    Not long after Horatio left, the area was suddenly surrounded by dozens of police cars! David was taken aback and quickly tried to call Horatio, but the line was busy. After all, at that moment, Horatio was on


    a call with Calista.


    Hearing the unsettling sound of the siren, Horatio raised his voice, "Calista, what is the meaning of this?"


    Calista chuckled softly. "You were nning to leave Kiefer''s faction anyway. Why would you care about their fate?"


    With just one sentence from her, all the words Horatio had nned to say next were stuck in his throat.


    Calista said in a low voice, "All you need to do is to keep a close eye on your hostage."


    After Calista finished speaking, Horatio instinctively nced at Ambrose. Meanwhile, Calista had already ended the call.


    The moment she hung up, David called Horatio. "D*mn it! We''ve been duped. That woman actually had the nerve to call the cops. Hurry up and bring the hostage back here!"


    David''s voice wasced with anger and a hint of panic, but he was still assured.


    As long as he had the hostage, even if the police arrived, they wouldn''t dare to act rashly.


    Listening to the distinct sound of


    sirens on the other end, Horatio was torn, remembering Calista''s previous words. Eventually, he gritted his teeth and forcefully ended the call. Moreover, after copying Calista''s number onto another phone, he promptly threw his original phone out of the car window.


    It didn''t matter to Horatio if David survived or if Kiefer seeded. His ultimate goal had always been Calista. As for the others, they could go to hell for all he cared!


    "D*mn it!" When David heard the busy tone from the other end, he realized that Horatio had betrayed him. He roared loudly a few times, furiously dialing up Kiefer''s number.

 Chapter 405 I Am Right Here

    Outside, the increasingly loud rmpelled them to make a hasty exit; they had no other choice but to flee from the impending danger.


    At that crucial juncture, Derek expertly cocked his gun, ready for what seemed an inevitable and intense confrontation. Jarrett, on the other hand, was fraught with worry.


    The possibility that his actions could have inadvertently endangered his only remaining family member, Ambrose, filled him with dread, even before he had the chance toy eyes on him.


    In a low, urgent whisper, Derek revealed, "From the very instant Horatio received the phone call from Ms. Calista, his allegiance shifted away from Kiefer. Now, he has Mr. Ambrose in his grasp and is currently en route to meet her. Consequently, our presence here has be irrelevant."


    Jarrett, unsure of Ambrose''s well-being, was visibly troubled. His anxiety spilled over as he asked, "What if Horatio decides to harm Ambrose when we make our move?"


    Derek''s eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint forming as he responded, "No, Ms. Calista would never allow Mr. Ambrose toe to harm. She specifically wanted me to show you something."


    Derek then presented Jarrett with a video that David had previously sent to Calista. Watching the footage, Jarrett''s anger surged, and he gripped his phone so tightly it seemed he might shatter it.


    The orderly march of police boots resonated through the air. Before leaving to confront the police, Derek turned to Jarrett, stating, "Ms. Calista has entrusted me with a message for you."


    Jarrett''s intense stare flickered across the room, not directed at Derek but at the brazen b*stard who dared torment Ambrose. Through gritted teeth, Jarrett demanded, "What did she say?"


    Derek ryed, "Ms. Calista said this man''s hands are far too tainted. Should we encounter him, we are to break his fingers one by one, documenting it for her to witness."


    This directive seemed to restore Jarrett''sposure, recing his menacing look with a sinister smile. Brandishing his gun, he smirked. "Let''s see who can track him down first."


    Meanwhile, as the car neared its destination, Horatio felt his anxiety mounting. The unexpected turn of events made him feel manipted, like a puppet on strings. He experienced a pang of regret, realizing that Calista had been plotting against him all along.


    Despite her youth and seeming innocence, Horatio clutched to the reassurance that with Ambrose in his control, he had nothing to fear. At the same time, both Kiefer and Kallum were informed of Horatio''s treachery.


    Kiefer''s expression darkened with fury, while Kallum responded with a chuckle.


    "Don''t celebrate too soon." From the phone, Kiefer''s voice was heard, his wordsced with determination, "Now that Calista has revealed herself, she''s mine!"


    Kallum''s response was a warning, "Be wary in your pursuit; she is more dangerous than she appears."


    That said, both men made their next moves.


    Meanwhile, Calista paid little mind to her whereabouts being leaked. Once David received word about Horatio heading to the fishing yard, he reported t to Kiefer at once. Though perplexed by the information, Kiefer became even more determined when he learned that Kallum had also sent reinforcements there. "We must capture Calista!" he


    "Yes, Mr. Kiefer." From the shadows, a tanned and muscr man of Lostarian descent emerged, his presence formidable as he spoke in the tongue of Lostaria, "Anyone who blocks my path will be ruthlessly destroyed!"


    Horatio, leading his men to the fishing yard, found the area deserted except for rows of fish drying in the cold winter air. Evidently, the ce had been cleared by Calista.


    Unable to spot her, Horatio dialed Calista, his voice tinged with fear. "Where are you?"


    Despite being surrounded by numerous bodyguards, the vast, empty space, coupled with the nearby sea breeze carrying a scent reminiscent of blood, heightened Horatio''s unease.


    "I''m right here." The reply came from the phone and seemed to echo around him.


    Turning, Horatio was startled to see Calista standing alone, the fading sunset casting a warm glow on her, her ck leather ankle boots shining under the light.


    "I''m here now, shouldn''t you release him?" she proposed calmly, casting a nce at Ambrose.


    Ambrose had always been known


    for his frail constitution, and now, tightly bound and effectively silenced he was utterly helpless. Despite his predicament, the sight of Calista ignited a desperate flurry of resistance within him. His eyes, heavy with guilt, reflected his torment over her taking such grave risks on his behalf.


    Meanwhile, Horatio found himself teetering on the brink of rm. The scenario before him was perplexingly abnormal. Why would Calistae here entirely on own? With caution dominating his


    her!


    thoughts, Horatio restrais


    approach and inquired, "How do you propose we exchange?"


    Calista responded by gesturing toward a car parked not too far behind Horatio. "My men are in the car. If you agree, you''ll let him go. My people wille to pick him up. When the timees, he''ll head toward the car, and I''lle to you. How does that sound?"


    The arrangement seemed reasonably safe and straightforward, especially given the vast, unobstructed space around them. Notably, Calista was unarmed, which seemingly reduced the potential for immediate danger.


    After pondering the situation briefly, Horatio conceded with a nod and proceeded to release Ambrose.


    However, Ambrose was reluctant to leave. The moment his binds were severed, he yanked the rag from his mouth, eager to close the distance between himself and Calista.


    His attempt was quickly thwarted by Horatio''s men, who sternly advised, "Mr. Ambrose, you should have left in the opposite direction."


    Despite their intervention, it was Calista who called a halt, her voice warm with reassurance as she smiled. "Don''t worry, he needs something from me; he won''t harm me."


    Ambrose was painfully conscious that his presence only escted the tension. The feeling of uselessness overwhelmed him; it was excruciating to know that Calista, the woman he liked, was endangering her life for his sake.

 Chapter 406 A Tense Standoff

    "I''m sorry... for dragging you into this mess," Ambrose muttered, his voice tinged with regret.


    "What nonsense, it''s clear that I''ve dragged you into this," Calista responded with a light chuckle. However, her smile faded as her eyes scanned the crisscrossing scars adorning his upper body, her expression turning icy with the sight.


    "Go on, your brother is waiting for you," she urged him gently. Though Ambrose was hesitant to leave her side, he knew he had no choice but toply. With a heavy heart and clenched teeth, he turned and began to walk in the opposite direction.


    A figure emerged from the car, approaching Ambrose with hands raised in a gesture of peace, under the watchful gaze of Horatio. Meanwhile, Calista advanced toward him, her steps measured and deliberate.


    Step by step, the distance between them closed.


    Horatio was convinced that once he had Calista within his grasp, he could manipte her to extend his own life through any means necessary. With Kiefer being distracted by Kallum, Horatio focused solely on seizing Calista.


    At that crucial moment, Calista burst intoughter, her scars lending a haunting quality to her mirth. "Do you know?" she asked, capturing Horatio''s full attention.


    "If I wish for someone''s death, not even the heavens can protect them," she dered confidently. Just as she finished her sentence, the sudden roar of an engine sounded from the south.


    "Calista, are you ying tricks?" Horatio stepped forward, seizing control over her in one swift move.


    With a gun pointed at her, Calista shrugged nonchntly. "I haven''t done anything. I have no idea who''sing."


    As Calista''s prediction unfolded before his eyes, Quintus hastily started the car, whisking Ambrose away. In the blink of an eye, six ck sedans crashed through a barricade and stormed the scene. Twenty menacing men emerged, their aura thick with bloodlust. Horatio''s eyes widened in shock at the sight of their leader, a formidable tan-skinned man, who aimed his gun directly at him.


    "Kurt..."


    Before Horatio could react fully, his bodyguard shoved him aside, saving him from what would have been a fatal shot.


    Kurt''s shot missed, and he frowned deeply, hismand of Chanaean not quite perfect as he demanded, "I want her! Give her to me!"


    Horatio hesitated, weighing his options as he faced about thirty to forty skilled men of his own against Kurt''s fearsome crew. Should I hand over Calista to maintain peace?


    Calista''s soft voice broke through his deliberations, "The fact that he managed to find his way here shows that Kiefer knows of your betrayal. Do you really think giving me up will save you? If you do, you''re as good as dead."


    Frustrated and cornered, Horatio red at her, his voice tight with anger. "Are you scheming against me?"


    "I certainly didn''t," Calista replied with a lightugh. "I couldn''t possibly orchestrate the big guy''s actions. All the decisions were yours. Isn''t it a bitte to me me now?"


    Impatience shed across Kurt''s stern face as he issued a singlemand, "Attack!"


    Upon hearing this, Horatio gritted his teeth in frustration, issuing a simrmand, "Counterattack! Give us cover!"


    At his signal, a fierce sh erupted immediately. The open terrain offered no cover, resulting in significant casualties. Horatio, seeing the tide turning against him, sprinted toward the north where his car awaited.


    However, before he could escape, he found his men nearly wiped out. On the brink of what seemed like his end, he had a sh of insight and pulled Calista in front of him, using her as a human shield. He shouted loudly, "Stop! Tell your people to stop, or I''ll kill her!"


    Kurt''s men halted their fire, turning their attention to him. Kurt, confident in his judgment,ughed dismissively. "You won''t dare."


    Certain that Horatio wouldn''t dare harm Calista, Kurt coldly ordered with a casual flick of his finger, "Eliminate them all."


    At that critical moment, forces loyal to Kallum, led by Levi, arrived with over a hundred men, forming a defensive line to the east to protect Calista. After ensuring Ambrose''s safety, Quintus returned to join them, engaging in long-range attacks to provide a brief respite for Horatio.


    Witnessing his men''s downfall, Horatio frantically attempted to flee with the few survivors. Fate, however, seemed to conspire against him as another wave of vehicles approached, bringing more than a hundred additional fighters.


    Calista, hidden behind Horatio, squinted thoughtfully. I didn''t expect Kiefer to have so many people under hismand in Horington. I''m afraid these people are his final trump card, and if they were to all die here...


    After the arrival of reinforcements,


    they found themselves ensnared in a devastating pincer attack. Despite the stalwart defense mounted by those loyal to Kallum, Horatio''s forces were utterly decimated. Ovee with a profound sense of dread, Horatio felt the stark terror of his imminent downfall. Grasping Calista, he used her as a living shield while desperately retreating northward, his hand quivering as he aimed his gun at her, fearing for his own survival.


    Witnessing the obliteration of his own men, Horatio clung to Calista even more tightly, positioning her between himself and any potential threat. This action caused considerable anxiety for Levi, who was deeply concerned for Calita''s safety, ng that Kurt''s forces might hurt her.


    Poised to charge into the fray and rescue her, Levi was abruptly halted by Quintus.


    "Don''t move, see that green fishing up ahead? That''s the boundary line. Ms. Stafford has strictly forbidden us from crossing it!" Quintus cautioned with urgency.


    Levi, puzzled and frustrated, responded, "Why? Are we just going to stand here and watch while Kurt endangers Calista?"


    ¡°Just wait a bit longer..." Quintus replied, his voice strained with uncertainty. He had no clear


    nove


    understanding of what Calista had instructed Julian and the others to do before their arrival. However, in the absence of Kallum, her directives were paramount, and they had no choice but to adhere to her orders and hold their position.


    As the gunfire temporarily subsided,


    a tense standoff ensued. Kallum''s


    men maintained a safe distance, while the factions loyal to Kiefer were locked at a standstill, neither side making a decisive move. Meanwhile, the surrounding chaos was pushing Horatio to the edge of sanity. He could do nothing but watch as his men were methodically taken down, one after another. The fear of impending death was so palpable that it caused his legs, already shaky with dread, to tremble even more uncontrobly.

 Chapter 407 Gather Everyone Here

    "I''m still in your hands, why are you hesitating? Haven''t you noticed they''ve stopped daring to shoot?" Calista''s calm voice broke through the chaos, catching Horatio off guard.


    In a sudden surge of anger, Horatio shouted, "You b*tch! Did you orchestrate this? You think you can just walk away from this chaos? Even if it kills me, I''ll make sure you go down with me!" His voice was filled with fury as he gripped Calista''s arm tightly.


    From a distance, Kurt was leading a group toward them, his presence marked by a cold,manding tone. "The game is over. Traitors have no right to live in this world." His icy deration sent a shiver down Horatio''s spine.


    "Don''te any closer!" Horatio yelled back, his fury undiminished. He had invested everything in capturing Calista, primarily to save his own skin after severing ties with the Ingram family. Now, with nothing left but his life, if Kurt meant to kill him, he wouldn''t let Calista live either.


    With that, he disengaged the safety on his pistol, his eyes red with rage and fear, and threatened, "If you take one more step forward, I swear we''ll both meet our end!"


    Kurt stopped in his tracks, sensing the genuine desperation in Horatio''s voice. But he pondered momentarily, It doesn''t matter much if Calista was harmed, but her demise would render her useless...


    As Kurt paused, Calista lowered her voice, leaning in to speak to Horatio. "If I had a way to make all his people perish right here, would you be willing to cooperate?¡±


    Horatio, taken aback by her proposal, struggled to find words.


    Regardless of his hesitation, Calista continued quietly, "Do you see the green fishing on the ground to the right? Take me there, and then have Kurt and his mene as close to us as possible."


    "A-Are you sure?" Horatio asked, his voice betraying his confusion and desperation. He knew he could no longer trust Calista, yet his instinct for survival urged him to consider her proposal.


    Calista chuckled softly, her eyes gleaming mysteriously, a mix of beauty and danger ying across her scarred face. "Of course, I have experience in taking lives,¡± she whispered, almost reassuringly.


    Her life is in my hands. What is there be afraid of? Convinced, albeit reluctantly, Horatio began leading Calista toward the indicated spot.


    Kurt, observing their approach with a hint of suspicion, cautiously followed.


    Once they reached the designated location, Horatio called out loudly, "Want her? Sure, let''s make a deal!"


    Kurt, sensing something amiss, remained silent, listening as Horatio continued, "Have all your people step out and drop their weapons! As long as I can leave here alive, I will hand over Calista to you!"


    Kurt let out a coldugh and nced at Calista.


    With just a look, Calista understood his intention and called out to Quintus from a distance, "Quintus, lead everyone out and drop your weapons."


    Quintus hesitated, but under Horatio''s urgent threat, "Hurry up, or I''ll kill her!" he looked at Kurt and said, "If we''re to drop our weapons, we''ll do it together!"


    Kurt, uncertain of Calista''s intentions but aware of Horatio''s unstable state, decided to proceed cautiously. After all, Calista was still valuable and very much in Horatio''s hands.


    Moreover, Horatio was far from being their primary target, and letting him go didn''t seem to matter much.


    With these considerations, Kurt surprisingly agreed.


    Calista''s lips curved slightly, and Horatio issuedmands with a stern


    expression, "Everyone who''s with you,e out. Gather around the open space near me. I''m wary of any surprise attacks!"


    Kurt''s sense of unease grew. He nced at the ground, noting the abundance of withered grass and disturbed areas. Hemunicated to his trusted aide in Lostarian, ¡°Don''t step on the disturbed ground, ade closer to me."


    His men, alert and cautious, moved toward him, forming a tight group of over a hundred. Their focus was on preventing any trickery by Horatio They were not concerned about any movements from the Fairchild family''s men from behind, for them, Calista was paramount.


    Seeing the gathering crowd, Horatio grew nervous and whispered to Calista, "I''ve


    summoned everyone here, what exactly do you intend to do?"


    Calista turned slightly, her expression yful yet ominous, and teased, "Are you scared?"


    Horatio pondered, Wouldn''t anyone be scared? Being isted and faced with such a menacing crowd, it''spletely understandable for one to feel their legs turn to jelly! Even with their weaponsid down, the thick air of their murderous intent is palpable.


    "Now, you have two options," Calista continued, presenting her choices to Horatio with an unruffled demeanor. "First, you could point the gun at me, These people are here for me. If you your escape from the back, they won''t pursue you until they''ve captured me. After that, you''re on your own."


    then step back and leave.ake


    Horatio stood silent, aware that one of the exits to the fishing yard was just behind


    him. He could potentially make a swift getaway from this predicament. But


    departing would mean leaving Calista behind.


    "Your second option," she proposed, "is to remain here and observe how I manage these enemies. However, amidst this chaos, it could prove difficult for you to escape unscathed."


    At that moment, Horatio was clearly grappling with a difficult decision. Calista''s strategy was evident; fleeing would mean losing everything he valued. Alternatively, staying could very well cost him his life.

 Chapter 408 Reap A Significant Harvest

    Kurt, overhearing their hushed conversation, interrupted with a sense of urgency, "Now, it''s time for you to hand her over to me."


    Although his group had disarmed, their presence alone was a formidable force; they were unafraid and ready for conflict.


    "Make your choice, Mr. Ingram," Calista said, her calm voice causing a bead of sweat to form on Horatio''s forehead. Should he flee, or should he stay?


    Leaving might temporarily save his life. Staying, as long as Calista was by his side, seemed less perilous. He hadmitted fully to this course of action; abandoning it now would leave him with nothing.


    Thus, Horatio clenched his teeth and dered, "Enough with the nonsense, didn''t you say you could take them down? Stop wasting words and get to it!"


    A flicker of pity passed through Calista''s eyes as she responded, "You''re truly pitiful."


    Before she could finish, Kurt''s hand moved toward his waist, his tone carrying a subtle but clear threat, ¡°Quit ying games; you won''t be able to escape!"


    At this, Levi became highly tense. "What do we do? Ms. Calista is about to fall into Kiefer''s hands! If we don''t act now, it''ll be toote!"


    Quintus restrained him, urging patience, "Don''t rush, wait a little longer! Just a bit more!"


    Wait some more?


    Horatio pointed his gun at Calista''s head, his palms slick with cold sweat. His heart pounded so fiercely he struggled to breathe.


    Everything depends on Calista now. Whether I sink or swim is entirely up to her.


    Meanwhile, Kurt''s impatience was evident as he and his men edged closer, reducing the distance second by second.


    Suddenly, Calista exhaled a long sigh of relief, "Very well, now the game is over." As she spoke, she discreetly activated a small remote control hidden in her hand. The moment Kurt noticed the remote, his pupils shrank in rm!


    She pressed the button, and instinctively, everyone ducked. Explosions erupted, sounding as though they came from beneath the ground, yet causing no visible disruption on the surface.


    When Kurt heard the explosions, he moved swiftly toward Calista. However, she was quicker, using a sudden movement to toss Horatio into Kurt''s path, momentarily blocking him. As Kurt tried to recover and charge again, a bomb had exploded between him and Calista.


    In an instant, amidst a storm of dust and debris, it felt as though the earth itself was rebelling.


    As the dust settled, Kurt and his men, though shocked and disoriented, found themselves unharmed.


    Fortunately, they had been warned in advance, so not a single one of them was standing directly above the explosives.


    Kurt burst intoughter, relieved. "What''s the point of burying it so well? I''ve always said, women can be so foolish!" Confidently, he reached out toward Calista, dering, "You''re mine now!"


    But Calista merely met his advance with a cold stare. Suddenly, the ground beneath them gave way.


    What''s going on? The ground is copsing


    The ground beneath Kurt and his


    men left a gaping hole that swallowed him and the rocks around him in a sudden, violent copse He had been standing about seven meters from Calista, and as the ground opened up, he struggled to bridge the gap, but a massive section of earth crumbled right before him, plunging him downward at thest moment.


    What''s going on here? How can there be an underground cavity!


    Amidst the confusion, everyone pondered the same question, but no answers were forting.


    With Kurt''s forces gathered in one ce, the explosion had caused the majority to fall into the newly revealed pit. Quintus and the others, initially bracing for a fierce fight, found themselves staring down at their adversaries struggling in the water-filled pit below.


    After the copse, the air was thick with dust. From the depths of the pit, the pping sounds of countless fish tails against the water could be heard- astonishingly, the pits were filled with fish!


    The pit wasn''t overly deep, roughly three meters, but those who had fallen were desperately trying to escape. It was at this moment that Quintus and his men, snapping out of their daze, aimed their weapons down at the floundering group.


    When they picked up their weapons, they were still reeling from the shock. The underground cavity, the powerful undercurrents, the schools of fish-it now became clear. Calista had sent Julian ahead to nt explosives because she knew the fishing yard was hollow.


    This revtion stirred a profound unease among everyone present. Calista stood at the edge of the pit, observing the scene unfold. She heaved a long sigh of relief, finally allowing herself to rx, clutching her slightly st- damaged body. She sat down, reflecting on her past.


    In her previous life, she remembered a news story about a sudden copse at Catfish Harbor, where a massive sinkhole revealed a bounty of fish, providing a plentiful end-of-year harvest for the local fishermen.


    This memory had resurfaced when she heard about Catfish Harbor, prompting her to send Julian ahead with geodetic equipment to scout the fishing yard. After confirming the existence of an underground cavity, they had a professional set the explosives, ensuring everything was ready for the ambush.


    Her meticulous nning, based on a thorough understanding of Horatio''s psyche


    and exploiting it effectively, had led to this moment.


    Kurt had underestimated them, and his eagerness to capture her had walked his men right into her carefullyid trap, allowing her to capture them in one fell swoop. Now, she truly had reaped a significant harvest.

 Chapter 409 Watch Out

    From the depths of the pit, the sshing of water and the pping of fish created a cacophony of sounds, oddly lively amid the chaos.


    As the dust began to settle, darkness descended rapidly with the setting sun, cloaking the area in shadows. Calista had thought about approaching the edge of the pit to see the plight of those below, but the encroaching night obscured her view, making it impossible to see clearly.


    The urgency to rid herself of the virus consuming her body grew; she was half- blind and uncertain of how much longer she could endure the affliction.


    Touching her shoulder, she winced; the explosion had hurled debris at her, and she suspected a severe bruise was forming.


    Quintus, snapping back to reality, dodged the hazards and sprinted toward Calista, admiration shining in his eyes. "Ms. Calista you''re truly incredible!" he eximed, his gaze filled with reverence. From that moment, he decided she would be his idol.


    Seated and slightly amused, Calista could only make out a blurry figure approaching her when suddenly Quintus shouted, "Watch out!"


    His voice cracked with fear, causing Calista''s muscles to tense as she instinctively rolled to the side. But it was toote-a bullet had already pierced her shoulder, sending waves of pain radiating across her back.


    As she was struck, a barrage of gunfire erupted, targeting the assant who had ambushed her.


    It turned out Kurt hadnded on a rtively shallow bank when he fell into the pit. Unlike others who might have suffered serious injuries, he emerged unscathed. Seizing a moment when attention was diverted, he used a subordinate''s back as a stepping stone to vault upwards, reaching a height of three meters thanks to his exceptional night vision and precise aim.


    Even as he dodged return fire, he managed a shot at Calista, who, fortunately, was still necessary to him alive-otherwise, she might not have survived.


    Quintus narrowed his eyes and fired several shots at Kurt. Seizing this opportunity, Calista made her escape while clutching her wound.


    Kurt tensed his muscles, confronting the Fairchild family''s men while pursuing Calista without hesitation.


    He cursed the swiftly falling night; it seemed as if the sky had darkened all at once, engulfing everything in pitch-ck darkness. Yet, despite his injury, Kurt managed to evade the bullets and escape from the fishing yard.


    "Chase after them!" Quintus shouted, filled with regret. Seeing that Kurt''s forces were nearly annihted, and those who had escaped capture were few, he had momentarily lowered his guard.


    Little did he know, Kurt possessed the agility of a wild animal. When he leapt from the pit, he moved with the speed of lightning, hisrge form melting into the shadows as others fired blindly in the opposite direction.


    "D*mn it! We have to catch him. We can''t let him harm Ms. Calista!"


    Meanwhile, on another front, Kiefer engaged in a relentless guerri warfare


    against Kallum and his team in the mountainous terrain.


    "Mr. Kallum, we''ve located him!" Flynn announced, holding a sophisticated device, his voice tinged with excitement.


    Kallum''s face remained stern. "Silence!" he hissed, giving Gunner a knowing nce.


    Gunner, understanding the unspoken order, led a well-equipped team to encircle from another direction.


    Kallum then silently issued two additionalmands, and the entire team sprang into action.


    The darkness of the night posed a significant challenge to their pursuit, but it hindered Kiefer just as much. Now, the hunt was a game of strategic superiority.


    Before making his move, Kallum inexplicably looked up at the sky, prompted by Ryder''s low inquiry, "What''s wrong?"


    Instead of answering directly, Kallum simply frowned deeper into the darkness, his thoughts no longer preupied with ming Calista for running about. "It''s nightfall. Callie won''t be able to see."


    In the meantime, Calista collided harshly with a wall, the impact causing her to stagger. Only then did she realize she had inadvertently walked into a dead end.


    ??? to


    In the enveloping darkness, her only option was to move toward any source of light, though her vision was obscured by the ckness around her. The distant sound gunfire kept her on edge, forging her to grit her teeth and push forward again.


    Blood trickled down Calista''s arm, her thoughts clouding as she swiftly wrapped anotheryer of clothing around the wound, adding a silver needle to stem the bleeding.


    This was her third needle; although the bleeding had lessened, it hadn''t stoppedpletely. She continued to wrap herself,yer byyer, pressing on even as blood slowly seeped through.


    Her impaired vision made it


    impossible to seek help in crowded ces. Hindered by her blindness, she could only run toward the flickering lights. Fortunately for her, Kurt was also wounded, and with Quintus in pursuit, he couldn''t immediately catch up to her, providing her with a brief respite.


    "Look, it seems like that person got injured..."


    The sound of a conversation reached her ears. Due to the sparse lighting in the area, Calista could only glimpse shadowy figures passing by, unable to make out their faces clearly.


    Nevertheless, she knew she had to leave immediately.


    "It seems like you''re hurt, do you need my help?" a sweet feminine voice suddenly called out.


    Startled, Calista recoiled, crying out, "Back off!"


    The loss of blood made her head feel increasingly heavy, and her blurred vision coupled with her inability to see clearly enveloped her in a murderous aura, making her increasingly agitated.


    The girl was clearly terrified by Calista''s harsh response. Had Calista not been close by, she might have burst into tears on the spot.

 Chapter 410 I Will Not Fall For Your Tricks Again

    At that moment, the onlookers who had been initially captivated by the unfolding scene recoiled from Calista''s imposing presence. Her aura, charged with a formidable energy, discouraged them froming any closer.


    It''s probably for the best. We should keep our distance from her. She seems dangerous.


    Unbeknownst to Calista, blood had been trailing behind her. She believed she had secured the bandage tightly enough, but in truth, it was poorly applied and ineffective.


    Meanwhile, Kurt, resembling a wolf on the prowl, had picked up the scent of her blood and was trailing her relentlessly.


    His reputation for surviving the most dire of situations was not unfounded. Having wed his way out, Kurt had arrived at this location, propelled by a fearless and relentless determination. This pursuit continued despite Quintus and his men hot on his heels.


    Anyone whoid eyes on Kurt, his appearance marred by blood, screamed in terror, quickly retreating to safety.


    Kurt''s underestimation of Calista and Horatio had led to a significant defeat earlier, fueling a ferocious rage within him. Now, unleashed and more beast than man, he was resolute in his mission to capture Calista and brutally torment her in front of Kallum.


    After Kurt escaped Quintus and his squad, Calista sensed a disturbing presence and nced back. Though her vision was blurred, the tangible aura of bloodlust and malice that Kurt exuded filled the air, sending a wave of dread through her.


    What do I do if Kurt catches up to me?


    Calista let out a chilling chuckle, her eyes swirling with dark, chaotic energy. Her lips, slightly curved, hinted at a deep-seated malevolence.


    She recalled the four who had once pursued her relentlessly back in Lostaria, now reduced to nothing but bones and dust.


    Her resolve was clear-anyone who dared touch her would meet a grim fate. I''ll annihte them all!


    In the dimly lit alley, Kurt''s nose twitched as he distinguished the sickly sweet scent of fresh blood from the stale, rusty smell that clung to his own wounded body. It was the scent of prey.


    While numerous people were searching for him, he had finally located her.


    The crisp, rhythmic sound of his leather boots stepping on the bluestone echoed in the alley. Despite being soaked and wounded, Kurt''s makeshift bandages held up, and he maintained the alertness of a seasoned hunter, wless from head to toe.


    Coming upon a dead end surprised him. Subconsciously, he attributed this to what Calista''s foolishness. However, after witnessing the scene at the fishing yard, he couldn''t maintain his biased belief from his homnd that "womenck thought" about Calista.


    Knowing full well that Calista had been bleeding all the way here and was likely weakened, Kurt''s muscles still tensed, and he gripped his gun firmly as he advanced step by step.


    He finally discovered her in a secluded corner, seemingly vulnerable.


    At that moment, Calista was seated against the wall, her head bowed, a dim light


    casting shadows over her face, obscuring her features from Kurt''s view.


    In the profound silence, not even her breathing was audible. His heartbeat elerated as he aimed his gun at her.


    "Stand up!" hemanded.


    Calista remained motionless.


    He disengaged the safety catch, his voice icy, "Do you really think I''d fall for your tricks again? Stand up!"


    Still, Calista did not move.


    Kurt squinted, wondering if she had fainted from blood loss. Hisrge frame tensed as he cautiously reached out toward her.


    Suddenly, a gunshot rang out!


    The concealed gun within Calista''s embrace had fired at close range. However, due to Kurt''s extreme caution, he dodged almost instantly, the bullet merely grazing his arm.


    Calista, unshaken, acknowledged that Kurt was the most formidable adversary she had faced on her journey.


    In the next instant, she was hoisted up, her neck tightly gripped in his hand, and mercilessly pinned against the wall.


    As he ferociously pped her, the gun in Calista''s hand fell to the ground. Kurt''s eyes were bloodshot with a visceral hatred. "How dare you hurt me!"


    For Kurt, being wounded by a woman was the ultimate disgrace, and he furiously began to strangle her. Calista could almost hear the faint sound of her neck cracking under the pressure.


    Desperately, she struggled against his iron grip, pushing and kicking, but it was futile. In the vice-like sp of Kurt''s muscr arms, a dark premonition enveloped


    her.


    At thest moment, Kurt remembered her significance and released her.


    Despite the brutal encounter, Calista was nearly lifeless, too weak to resist any further. Confident she was subdued, Kurt checked her for


    weapons before carelessly lifting


    her, showing utter indifference to her well-being.


    His long hair hung down, swaying back and forth as he moved.


    Calista, severely weakened by blood loss, experienced a sudden rush of adrenaline as he grasped her roughly. This surge momentarily sharpened her senses amidst the chaos Struggling to maintain some control, her hand, initially clutching her left shoulder, slowly crept up his arm to probe the fresh wound grazed by the bullet.


    Kurt had sustained injuries previously, but those had been meticulously bandaged. It was only this fresh, exposed wound that offered Calista an unintended opportunity.


    When her bloodied hand made contact with his wound, Kurt reacted as if shocked by electricity. His instinctive tightening grip caused her to cry out in pain from the unexpected force.


    Kurt held a dismissive view of


    women, seeing them merely as objects to satisfy his desires, never


    considering them as equals or


    partners. To him, Calista was just a


    scarred monster, not worthy of any


    empathy or respect.

 Chapter 411 I Am The Most Powerful Weapon

    Amid her pained cries, Kurt couldn''t resist taunting her, his smile twisted with menace.


    "You better not be nning anything. I could tear you apart with one hand!" His words were a chilling reminder of his physical superiority.


    Carried along by him, Calista remained as still as if life had left her body. They moved several meters before a faint, incredibly weak voice emerged from behind Kurt.


    "You thought... by disarming me, I wouldn''t be able to harm you?"


    Kurt, startled by the defiance in her voice, reacted instinctively by throwing Calista aside. She collided with the wall, the impact causing blood to trickle from the corner of her mouth as she slumped to the ground. Yet, despite the pain, a faintugh escaped her lips.


    In the dim light, there was a certain glow in her eyes. "I... I am the most powerful weapon..." she dered.


    Initially, Kurt didn''t grasp the meaning of her words. But then, a burning sensation rapidly spread throughout his body, the heat intensifying unnaturally.


    "What''s happening... to my body?" he gasped as the fever surged, overwhelming his senses.


    Typically, the K Virus might induce a fever, but nothing as severe as what Kurt was experiencing. His previous injuriespounded his vulnerability, allowing the virus, transmitted through Calista''s blood, to aggressively take hold. His once formidable strength ebbed away as he became weak and disoriented.


    Blood! A sudden fever?


    The realization dawned on him as he stared at his arm where Calista''s blood had mingled with his.


    Looking at Calista in disbelief, his eyes wide with shock, he could barely articte his realization. "You..."


    Lifting her head, Calista managed a weak butposed smile. "Just as you suspected, I''m infected with a deadly virus... You might as well call me the Annihtor of Death."


    As she slowly rose to her feet, Kurt, consumed by fear, staggered back, his body burning with the intense fever brought on by the virus.


    The woman that he could have easily torn apart just moments ago had now slowly moved to his side, looking down on him from a position of superiority. The roles were now reversed; the predator had be the prey.


    "The deadly virus will end with me... and you, you''ll be thest to die from it. Feel honored?" Calista''s tone was almost conversational as she reached for his gun with a casual gesture.


    Kurt tried desperately to recover the weapon, but his coordination failed him, and he copsed to the ground. Despite his efforts to rise, his body betrayed him, weakened by the K Virus'' rapid assault.


    Calista watched his struggle, herughter cold and detached.


    The virus she carried was unlike any typical strain; it had been honed within her to


    a uniquely potent form, making its effects on others, particrly on an already


    weakened individual like Kurt, especially severe.


    Suddenly, a gunshot echoed through the alley.


    The dim lighting made it difficult for Calista to aim precisely, and her shot struck Kurt''s abdomen instead of his heart. His screams filled the night air as Quintus and his team arrived on the scene.


    As Calista fired again under the sparse streetlight, the ensuing silence was punctuated by a final, gruesome sound-a blood spurt hitting her ankle boots. Kurt, once a formidable foe under Kiefer''smand, nowy lifeless, defeated by a woman he had underestimated.


    The impact of what had just transpired was hard for Quintus and the others to process.


    As Calista stood there, her shadow elongated and distorted by the light, an oppressive aura of death enveloped them.


    Just as Quintus was about to speak, his phone rang, bringing news that plunged him into deeper concern.


    "What? You''re saying...someone contracted the K Virus because of Ms. Calista?" Calista, overhearing the conversation, lifted her gaze toward the direction they hade from, her ears catching the sound of approaching footsteps. Quintus quickly ended the call and turned to Calista in distress. ¡°Ms. Calista, there''s been an incident! We need to leave immediately!"


    "It''s toote..." Calista spoke softly, then shifted her attention to her injured arm.


    The bandage, which had previously been secure, was nowpromised, with blood slowly seeping through the fabric at its end. It seemed likely that the bandage had been inadvertently touched, perhaps causing someone to be infected.


    As they stood in the shadowed alley, the sound of rhythmic, urgent footsteps began to grow louder and closer, ramping up the tension among those gathered.


    The rapid approach was


    unexpected, yet considering the circumstances, it was not entirely surprising Chanaea was renowned for its rigorous enforcement of. public health and safely


    regtions.


    The government''s stringent


    measures epassed everything from food poisoning and drug


    control to the control of biological agents like the K Virus.


    In moments, the previously quiet alley was overrun with activity as it became encircled by police armed to the teeth. Their presence and preparedness exceeded even that of the unit that had been sent to apprehend Kiefer, signaling the gravity of the situation.


    Quintus and hispanions quickly positioned themselves protectively in front of Calista. Meanwhile, from the other end of the alley, several figures dressed in white protective suits made their appearance.

 Chapter 412 I Am Indeed Infected

    "Calista Stafford? We have concerns you might be infected with the K Virus. We need your cooperation for a blood test right away!" The stern-faced officer''s voice was chillingly authoritative, the coldness in the tone conveying an unmistakable sense ofmand.


    Quintus attempted to intervene. "Could there be a mistake?" He nced toward Kurt, whoy motionless on the ground, his condition a possible clue. "He''s one of Kiefer''s men from Lostaria. Isn''t it usible that he could have been the carrier of the K Virus, potentially unleashing catastrophic consequences?"


    The officers exchanged brief looks, signaling to each other with subtle nods. At a gesture from one of them, several individuals d in pristine white suits advanced toward Kurt, ready to administer the blood test.


    Meanwhile, Calista, exhausted from the ordeal, shut her eyes briefly. She had eliminated Kurt while he was feverish, clearly in the throes of infection. It was only a matter of time before they realized this. Once they did, they would inevitably seek her out again.


    She knew that Quintus nned to whisk her away first and address the falloutter, banking on the Fairchilds to handle any diplomatic repercussions. However, if this incident came to the attention of the family''s rivals, it would undoubtedly provoke significant turmoil. Calista decided it was wiser to confront the issue head-on rather than let it escte from a minor misunderstanding into a major conflict.


    With these thoughts weighing on her, she slowly stepped out from behind Quintus.


    Upon noticing her emergence, Quintus eximed with a mix of concern and urgency, "Ms. Calista!"


    "It''s okay," Calista responded, her voice steady despite her paleplexion. "Old Mr. Yancey will take care of me, don''t worry."


    With a resolute expression, she then turned to the officer who had demanded her cooperation. "There''s no need for a test; I am indeed infected with the K Virus."


    Her admission sent shockwaves through not just the Fairchild family''s men present but also the officers who hade to detain her. Calista was well known in Horington as a favorite of Kallum; the implications of her infection were profound.


    Regardless, their mission had to go on, and Calista''s cooperation was weed.


    The officer, recovering from his initial shock, maintained his professional demeanor. "In that case, Ms. Stafford, pleasee with us."


    Calista nodded in acknowledgment and began to approach the officers.


    "Ms. Calista..." Quintus reached out instinctively, his hand grasping her arm as he struggled to process the unfolding events. The evening had been set for celebration, with ns to apprehend Kiefer and dismantle the terroristwork he had infiltrated into Horington. How had it spiraled into this catastrophe?


    Ultimately, he med himself for not providing sufficient protection.


    Calista gently freed herself from his grasp, her voice soft yet firm. "It''s okay, go find Kallum."


    Her words were barely out when dizziness overwhelmed her, and she copsed into Quintus'' arms.


    The officers, interpreting her copse as potential subterfuge, moved in quickly to secure her. Quintus was reluctant to release her, and the officers were met with the raised guns of the Parker Guards, creating a standoff.


    "Let her go!"manded the leading officer, his voice tense as he faced the armed guards.


    He understood the considerable influence wielded by the Fairchilds, and he knew his assignment here was no ident, given his reputation for integrity. Despite theplexities, his orders were clear-Calista needed to be taken into custody immediately due to the danger she posed.


    Quintus'' voice turned icy with resolve. "She needs immediate medical attention, and I am taking her back!"


    "Interfering could have severe repercussions for the people of Horington. We expect your cooperation," the officer countered firmly.


    "And if I refuse?" Quintus narrowed his eyes, determined to act in ordance with what he believed Kallum would expect to ensure Calista''s safety and leave therger issues to the Fairchild family to manage.


    At his refusal, the standoff intensified, with the officers readying their weapons. The air thick with tension seemed charged as if preluding a storm.


    "Enough already..." Calista groaned, pushing through her pain. She gently pushed Quintus away and steadied herself. "I''ll be fine."


    "Ms. Calista..." Quintus started, but Calista had already turned to address the officer directly.


    "I need medical attention now," she asserted, reaching for the officer''s arm as a sign of her willingness toply.


    The officer, reassured by her cooperation, helped stabilize her. "You''ll be safe in the quarantine area,¡± he assured her, his voice a mixture of relief and professionalism.


    When Kallum received the distressing call, his reaction was so severe that he nearly let his phone slip from his grasp.


    The voice on the other end relentlessly delivered the rming news, "Due to Ms. Calista, the K-virus has been released, resulting in over a hundred infections in Horington. The outbreak has triggered widespread panic throughout the area! Furthermore, Ms. Calista has been taken to the quarantine area!"


    The news that over a hundred people had been infected marked a grave crisis.


    Initially, the local health authorities had identified only one or two cases and mistook them formon


    colds or seasonal flu. Patients, believing they were suffering from minor ailments, sought treatment at hospitals where many were already vulnerable and weakened. The


    presence of some less skilled


    doctors exacerbated the situation.


    Without the swift intervention of


    state authorities, this outbreak could have spiraled into a disastrous epidemic.


    Previously, discussions of a K Virus outbreak had circted, but these instances had primarily affected affluent individuals, leaving the general poption untouched.


    This time, however, the virus had breached this boundary, striking indiscriminately among themon popce, and inciting widespread fear and chaos. Desperate citizens besieged government offices, seeking rity and reassurance.


    The situation at Catfish Harbor had escted quickly, resulting in aplete lockdown. No vehicles or boats were permitted to exit, only to enter, as swarms of armed police and emergency medical teams were deployed to manage the escting crisis. This was arguably the most severe catastrophe to hit Horington


    since its founding.


    In the wake of the initial chaos, Kallum took a moment to reflect, shutting his eyes


    as he collected his thoughts amidst the burgeoning crisis.


    His foremost priority was to prevent any loss of life. Those infected were now


    under strict quarantine, and it was imperative to ensure their survival and prevent


    any further deterioration due to the fever associated with the virus.


    Once he had gathered hisposure, Kallum initiated a flurry of phone calls to coordinate the response. He promptly instructed Shaun to dispatch thetest batch of antibodies to the quarantine area. Additionally, he mobilized teams to help calm the public and manage the spreading panic. However, amid these critical actions, his thoughts were incessantly drawn to Calista. Kallum was deeply concerned about her safety, fearing that someone might seize this opportunity to harm her.

 Chapter 413 Where Is Kallum

    Once the preparations wereplete and Shaun had reassured him that Calista''s injuries would be attended to and her safety ensured, Kallum allowed himself a moment of relief.


    "Mr. Kallum..." Ryder began, hoping to offer someforting words to his boss, but Kallum stopped him mid-sentence.


    Methodically loading his pistol, Kallum spoke in a voice eerily serene, betraying none of the storm brewing inside him.


    "Don''t say a word," hemanded as he cocked the gun, his gaze piercing through the darkness of the surrounding forest. His violet eyes seemed to sh with an intensity like a bolt of lightning slicing through the night. "Right now, I have only one thing on my mind¡ªto make that cursed rat from Lostaria pay a thousand times over for what he''s done."


    Meanwhile, Kiefer, who had long been adept at eluding international capture, had managed to evade the agents sent after him by the nation. However, the news of Calista''s capture and her subsequent quarantine had infuriated him to the point of physically smashing his phone down and furiously condemning his subordinates.


    How could over a hundred of my men, seasoned fighters all, fail to secure a single woman? Especially a woman already weakened by a virus!


    Such a humiliating defeat could provide fodder for his rivals'' mockery for years, assuming he survived long enough to hear it.


    Without Calista as leverage, how was he to control Kallum? Particrly now, as Kallum seemed to possess an uncanny ability to track him down relentlessly. If this continued, Kiefer feared his demise was certain.


    "Boss, the cave entrance is just ahead. Maybe we should back off this time. If we survive, there''s always another chance," suggested a short-statured Lostarian man standing beside Kiefer, speaking in his native tongue.


    Though Kiefer was reluctant, knowing that survival was his priority, he conceded, "Fine, let''s go."


    But as they made their move, they were suddenly engulfed by a surge of smoke and mes, propelled forward by a gust of wind that intensified the ze.


    Kiefer''s instincts screamed at him that this was no ident but perhaps a trap. Changing direction, he attempted to evade what he felt might be a guided threat.


    As the mes grew, trapping them, one of his men spotted a potential escape route. "Boss! Over here, there''s a stream!"


    Thinking quickly and with few options, Kiefer led his men toward the water, only to spot a figure waiting for them in the distance.


    As the mes cast a terrifying glow behind them and the lone figure ahead


    seemed ominously calm, Kiefer''s heart sank.


    Ryder, standing by the stream, smirked slightly. "After a night''s effort, we''ve finally cornered the rats! Now, where do you think you''re going?"


    Stunned, Kiefer couldn''t believe they had been herded into this trap by the Fairchild family''s men, whom he''d assumed had been left behind in the chase.


    He wanted to escape, but he was surrounded by fire on three sides.


    Determined to fight through, Kiefer faced the crowd, ready to carve a path to freedom, but behind Ryder awaited arge group of armed forces, perfectly positioned to capture him.


    Kiefer made up his mind to confront them head-on, but at that moment, his mind was elsewhere. "Where is Kallum? Summon him to see me!" Kiefer demanded, his grasp of Chanaean rough but his tone defiant.


    Ryder couldn''t help butugh. "You''re not even worth Mr. Kallum lifting a finger."


    "Could it be that he''s not here?" Kiefer nched, realizing the gravity of his situation.


    After all, he was a fugitive on the run from thirteen different nations, and had dedicated half of the night


    strategizing against Kallum. Now, at


    this defining moment, Kallum


    was


    nowhere to be found. Was he not


    deemed significant enough for


    Kallum to personally make an appearance?


    "So, Kallum is a coward, afraid I might kill him?" Kiefer spat out the words bitterly.


    Ryder looked at him with a mix of pity and disdain. "In Mr. Kallum''s eyes, you couldn''tpare to a single finger of Ms. Calista... Besides, what''s the point in meeting someone who''s about to die?"


    Upon hismand, coupled with the furious orders from Kiefer, the two sides shed violently. However, this single encounter had already sealed their fate.


    Elsewhere, upon hearing the distant gunshot, Kallum paused but did not look back. His thoughts were solely on Calista. She was injured, and she needed him. Gunner, waiting by the car, quickly briefed Kallum on the state of unrest in the city.


    "City Hall is surrounded, and the phones are ringing non-stop. The public is anxious, the government is urging you to make a statement to calm everyone down," Gunner ryed urgently. "Mr. Walter called; he''s done what he can, but it''s not enough. He suggests distancing from Ms. Stafford after dealing with Kiefer, then meeting to strategize further. The shareholders are aware of Ms. Stafford''s involvement and are waiting for your leadership. Also, the military has requested you call them back regarding Kiefer..."


    Gunner''s report was rapid and filled with the urgency of the situation, ending with


    a critical question, "So, Mr. Kallum, where do we go from here?"

 Chapter 414 I Need Her

    Without wasting a single beat, Kallum decisively stated, "Quarantine area.¡±


    It seemed as though Gunner momentarily lost hisposure, taken aback by Kallum''s firm directive. After regaining his bearings, Gunner managed to say, "Mr. Kallum, Old Mr. Yancey has already escorted the specialists there, and they will assuredly safeguard Ms. Stafford''s well-being. There are numerous pressing issues demanding your attention at this moment, and a multitude of individuals are awaiting your directives..."


    Kallum reiterated firmly, "I said, head to the quarantine area."


    "But the people need you now..." Gunner tried to reason once more.


    Looking out the car window, Kallum observed the dwindling mes and the fading sounds of gunfire in the distance. He replied softly, yet with undeniable resolve,


    "Many people need me? But I, I need her."


    With that singr deration from Kallum, Gunner understood the gravity of the situation and was prepared to set aside all else to drive straight to the quarantine


    area.


    Outside, the chaos was almost apocalyptic, the world seemed as if it had already been turned on its head. Yet, none of that chaos could outweigh Kallum''s pressing need.


    Calista required his presence just as much as he needed hers. He longed to be by her side at once, to feel her warmth and ensure she hadn''t slipped away from him. His yearning was palpable¡ªhe needed her.


    For the first time, the quarantine area was a hive of activity. Medical teams from nearly every hospital in the city were mobilized to assist, stabilizing the situation with the infected individuals.


    The introduction of Shaun''s advanced antibodies, a stark contrast to the original ones which only boasted a mere one percent survival rate against the K Virus, marked a turning point. Of the one hundred and eighty-six initially infected, one hundred and three had been liberated from the scourge of the infection following the administration of these new antibodies.


    However, these recovered patients were still under close observation for a potential rebound, and word of their recovery was not to be disclosed. As such, the atmosphere of chaos persisted unabated.


    Within this tightly secured quarantine area, where every entry and exit was scrutinized meticulously, even Kallum''s uncle, a senator, could not gain entry without special permission.


    Inside, Calistay in a hospital bed, her condition critical but stable under the vignt care of Shaun and Bowen, alongside other medical experts.


    Initially, seven members from the Fairchild family had intended to visit, but stringent regtions restricted ess, allowing Shaun to bring only one additional person.


    Calista, overwhelmed by difort, had her eyes closed. Her neck was swollen, her right cheek puffed up, and she was dealing with two broken ribs in addition to a gunshot wound on her left shoulder.


    After the wounds were tended to and bandaged, Bowen was politely escorted out, leaving Shaun alone with her, continually monitoring her condition.


    Kallum had dispatched Shaun not just for his medical expertise, but also because of his martial arts skills-skills he hadn''t practiced in years but were now critical in protecting Calista. Shaun was prepared to confront any threat head-on.


    As Kallum approached the quarantine area, he encountered his uncle, Walter, who blocked his path


    "You can go in!" Walter derede


    his position as councilor not affording him any leverage over Kattum, who was the true head of


    the Fairchild family.


    "My fianc¨¦e is inside," Kallum stated, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. He would have bypassed Walter without hesitation had he not stood in his way.


    Walter, visibly agitated with


    furrowed brows, admonished him, "Do you think this is an appropriate moment? The whole city is in an uproar! The entire nation is focused on the news of the K Virus leak The whole world is watching, anticipating whether Chanaea will be the next one to fall victim to the K Virus! And you, you''re needed everywhere to take charge of the situation, yet here you are?"


    He continued, "For the sake of the Fairchild family, you should immediately distance yourself from Calista! Otherwise, you''re putting yourself against the entire world, do you understand the consequences of such actions!"


    Kallum exhaled deeply, unbuttoning the top two buttons of his shirt to reveal his sculpted corbone and chest. "I need to see her right now. Step aside," he insisted with resolute determination, causing Walter to perspire with anxiety.


    "Kallum, this is no trivial matter! With so many people watching at the door, the moment you step in, the whole world will know! For the sake of our family, you cannot do this!"


    Kallum''s violet eyes narrowed slightly as he responded, "As long as I have her, I can resolve this crisis, so, I have to take her away."


    Walter was incredulous, grasping Kallum''s arm in a tense grip as he raised his voice in protest. "Calista has now be the nation''s most hated! She brought the K Virus back to our country. It would have been fine if it was just for research, but it turns out she herself is infected with the K Virus! Everything she''s done before is now under attack from everyone. In this situation, she''s in deep trouble and there''s no


    escaping the me. There are plenty of people outside calling for her execution! And you still want to save her at this point?"


    Kallum turned to face him, his expression deadly serious. "When I say she can resolve this catastrophe, she definitely can! If you don''t believe me, don''t try to stop me. I know what I''m doing."


    "You''ve beenpletely bewitched by that woman!" For the first time, Walter lost hisposure, his voice booming. "She''s ensnared you! How can you still act like a family head? You''re just like the inept monarchs of ancient times!"

 Chapter 415 Be The First One She Sees

    Kallum suddenly let out a chuckle, "You''re absolutely right." His body tensed momentarily as he swiftly pulled his arm free from Walter''s grasp, straightening his attire meticulously as he did so. "She has indeed captivated my soul. I would go to any lengths for her, even if that meant bing inept."


    When Walter reached out once again in an attempt to grasp his arm, a sharp nce from Kallum froze him in ce. Faced with the uncle he had always held in high regard, Kallum''s patience finally snapped. "Don''t touch my clothes again, you''ll wrinkle them. It won''t look good if Callie sees me like this."


    With that, he brushed past Walter, whose face had turned as red as a beet, and boldly made his entrance.


    Kallum had already informed the President beforehand, so his entry into the quarantine area was smooth and unobstructed. However, many onlookers couldn''t help but scrutinize his every move, trying to decipher his real reasons for being there.


    Was he there to unleash his fury on Calista, perhaps even end her life, or was he intending to convince her to set clear boundaries with the Fairchild family?


    Many spected thus, pondering why such a drastic step would be necessary over just one woman, turning an entire nation against oneself.


    Ignoring the spective gazes of the crowd, Kallum navigated through several security checkpoints, his determination unshaken until he finally reached her.


    "Mr. Kallum...¡± Shaun began to rise as soon as he saw him, but Kallum gestured for silence with a finger to his lips.


    Without needing to draw nearer, Kallum could see that Calista was asleep. Shaun had discreetly kept him updated on her condition-she had lost a significant amount of blood, endured not only external but also internal injuries, and had almost been strangled to death while he was busy capturing a notorious criminal for both personal and national motives.


    The thought of the brutal treatment his woman had suffered was a recurring nightmare, igniting a fierce rage within him each time it surfaced, filling him with an urge to destroy everything around him!


    "How is she doing now?" Kallum inquired in a subdued voice, barely above a whisper.


    Shaun responded in equally hushed tones, "Apart from the severe blood loss which has left her weak, she''s now out of immediate danger."


    "That''s good then..." Kallum felt a weight lift from his shoulders, the relentless anxiety he had carried seeming to dissolve at that moment.


    Shaun looked at Kallum, his expression conflicted, as if he had something to say but was hesitant. Despite being out of touch with the current outside chaos, he knew about the turmoil brought by the rtives of the nearly two hundred people housed in the quarantine area, which had only calmed down about half an hour earlier.


    There are urgent matters requiring Mr. Kallum''s attention. He shouldn''t be here right now, and I''m sure he knows that too.


    It seemed Kallum understood what Shaun was hinting at, and he softly exined, "When she was in trouble, I wasn''t there for her. Now that I''m here, I need to be the first person she sees when she wakes up."


    This heartfelt admission rendered Shaun speechless, unable to formte a rebuttal. Instead, he felt a pang of mncholy and sighed deeply. "Indeed..."


    Outside, time was of the essence,


    ???


    and tension was high. Yet here was Kallum, who, apart from discreetly sending messages on his phone, astonishingly refused to make any phone calls, simply sitting beside Calista quietly for two hours. If those outside knew of this, they would surely be in an uproar!


    "K-Kallum?"


    Calista''s faint voice broke the silence, startling Kallum, who quickly set aside his phone.


    "You''re awake?" He took the medication handed to him by Shaun and gently asked, "Does your throat hurt? Can you swallow the pills now?"


    If she couldn''t, his only option would be to dissolve the pills in water, which would make for a very bitter drink.


    Calista closed her eyes, assessing her condition Her neck pained her, but she felt she could manage to swallow the medication. She nodded slightly. Seeing her nod, Kallum pressed a button on the side of the


    bed to slightly elevate the head,


    making it easier for


    to it up.


    "Open up?" he asked, holding a pill between his fingers. Noticing the swelling and


    scars on her neck, he decided to administer the medication one at a time.


    Calista opened her mouth, and


    Kallum gave her a sip of water to ease the swallowing. He then gently ced the pill in her mouth, which she swallowed with little effort...


    Relieved, Kallum was about cho


    administer the second pill when Calista, catching her reflection in the ss before her, touched her


    swollen, scarred face and frowned."


    "I''m so ugly..." she muttered, clearly dismayed by her appearance.


    Even if she couldn''t see clearly, she could tell just by imagining how terrifying she


    must have looked at that moment.


    Kallum chuckled softly. "Not at all."


    As he attempted to feed her the second pill, Calista turned her head away, insisting, "I am."


    Kallum sighed, his violet eyes filled with a gentle resolve. "In my eyes," he said, "even if you were truly unattractive, which you are not, you''d still be the most refreshingly unique among all."


    Calista couldn''t help butugh at that, then opened her mouth to take the next pill.


    However, the pill was quiterge, and she almost immediately spat it out. Once she started vomiting, she couldn''t stop, bringing up only water and the medication she had just ingested. The mess sttered onto Kallum''s immactely clean shirt and trousers.


    Normally meticulous about his appearance, Kallum now had only concern for herfort. He held her close, his attentionpletely focused on her well-being. After noticing that Calista felt somewhat better, he nced down at the stains on his clothes and remarked, "Did the smell get to you? Wait a moment, I''ll go change."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 416 I Am Here Now

    No sooner had he stood up than Calista''s hand reached out and grabbed him.


    Kallum was taken aback by the sudden contact, frozen in ce, unsure of her intentions. In the next moment, he felt her arms wrap tenderly around his waist.


    She nestled close to him, her actions filled with undeniable affection. Words seemed to swell within her, choking her speech as they fought for release. Yet, all she could manage to express through her trembling voice was a heartfelt, "Thank you, I truly... I really need you..."


    The confusion and disorientation she felt were intense. The terror of being ushered into the quarantine area reminded her eerily of being taken to a research center in her previous life¡ªa memory filled with fear and helplessness.


    Even after Shaun''s arrival, her sleep had been restless, gued with anxiety. However, upon awakening to see Kallum''s face, her heart surged with emotions so powerful they felt explosive, overwhelming her. She had wanted to leap into his arms right then, to confess her fears and the depth of her terror.


    Feeling the gentle tremors coursing through Calista''s shoulders, Kallum felt as though something was tugging at his heartstrings with relentless force. T


    The sight of her vulnerability gripped him deeply. He reached out and gently stroked her hair, speaking in a voice barely above a whisper. "Don''t be afraid, I''m here now," he reassured her softly.


    Calista remained silent. Kallum''s heart ached at her silence. "I''m sorry, Callie, I arrivedte," he said, his voiceden with regret.


    She shook her head slowly, then pulled him into a tight embrace. When she finally looked up at him, she urged, "Go on... They must really need you out there right now."


    Kallum smiled gently, lifting her chin with a tender touch. "I''m here to take you with me," he said, his voice firm. "They need me, but I need you more."


    Calista seemed almost scorched by the intensity of his gaze. It took her a moment before she could lower her head, speaking in a broken voice. "They wouldn''t let me go."


    Kallum''s resolve hardened, and he patted her shoulder with aforting gesture. "Leave it to me."


    He turned to Shaun, instructing him to fetch a wheelchair. Once Shaun returned, Kallum helped Calista finish the remaining medicine. Then, with infinite care, he settled her into the wheelchair.


    Calista''s anxiety was palpable as she gripped his hand, her voice shaking. "I caused this K Virus leak. Regardless of the circumstances, they won''t let me go. You should leave first!"


    Kallum''s grip on her hand tightened, his smile unwavering and full of confidence. "So what if you were the one who caused the virus to leak? In the entire world, you''re the only one who can conquer it! You should have a bit more confidence in yourself!"


    Shaun chimed in from the side,


    "Exactly! Our experiment has already


    reached its final stages. The


    adjusted antiserum is fine in all


    other aspects, but when ites its side effects, we still haven''t found a solution. In fact, after improving the antiserum, the side effects have be even more intense. It could potentially inflict unbearable pain, leading to death. After all, not


    everyone possesses the strong


    willpower of Mr. Kallum."


    He spoke with a sense of urgency. "We are currently at the mercy of panic and public opinion. At this point, even a minor issue with the antiserum couldpletely ruin the advantageous position we''ve worked so hard to achieve!"


    Yel


    His serious expression turned to Calista. "So, we need you! You are the most gifted and intelligent medical research expert we''ve evere across. We all believe that you are the only one capable of oveing this challenge! We''re now bound together, and your fate is inextricably linked with the Fairchild family. In this critical moment, you must have confidence and lead us out of this predicament!"


    Shaun''s words struck a chord deep within Calista. Can I... really do it?


    Had it been before, she would have been fearless. But after the brushes with death she experienced that night, she surprisingly found herself unsure for a fleeting moment.


    Kallum held her hand, his smile reassuring and full of warmth. "Of course! You''re my woman; what''s there to fear? You have me by your side."


    Kallum personally escorted Calista outside. The medical staff didn''t dare to intervene, intimidated by his presence. Eventually, the highest-ranking military officer, surrounded by numerous armed police, blocked Kallum at the entrance of the Protective Security Building.


    "Mr. Kallum, she''s the main culprit in this incident. You can''t take her away!"


    Faced with the armed police, Kallum didn''t yield an inch. "What if I were to say, only she can resolve this crisis?"


    "Mr. Kallum, surely you must be joking." The highest-ranking military officer, a portly man, dabbed at the sweat on his forehead with a handkerchief, speaking hesitantly. "This is the K Virus. It''s not a trifling matter..."


    "The antibodies my people brought have already been tested by you, instantly saving over a hundred lives. These antibodies were developed by Calista. Now, the antiserum for the K


    Virus is in its final testing phase.


    Give her three days, and we w


    surely produce a perfect antiserum."


    The sweat on the chubby officer''s forehead was pouring out even more now. He could barely maintain his forced smile, wondering if Kallum was taking him for a fool. Could such a powerful antibody really havee from the hands of Calista? She''s barely twenty years old!


    "I''m afraid you cannot take her away, Mr. Kallum. Otherwise, I won''t be able to fulfill my duties," the officer insisted.


    Kallum''s patience seemed to wane, a frown creasing his forehead. His violet eyes, usually as dazzling as the morning sun, now resembled the profound depths of an abyss. A storm seemed to weave around him, creating an inexplicably tense atmosphere.


    "Do you have a way to resolve this crisis?" he asked, his voice low and dangerous.

 Chapter 417 I Am Doing This For Her

    With a dismissive scoff, Kallum retorted, "So many lives at stake, do you really think killing her would solve everything?"


    "I-I..." The officer stammered, stumbling back a step,pletely overwhelmed by Kallum''s imposing presence. He was so anxious that he couldn''t find his words. What could he possibly do in this situation? Given the dire circumstances, he could only follow the usual protocol, resorting to damage control and suppression. What other options did he have?


    "Kill her, and those people will surely die! But with her around, those people can definitely survive. It''s just three more days. If anything goes wrong, my family will take full responsibility. It''s a profitable deal-what are you hesitating for?"


    Kallum''s voice carried a hint of intimidation, his rising inflection bearing down on the plump military officer, causing hisplexion to turn even paler. His mind became a tangled knot, uncertain of what to do next.


    Due to Calista''s intricate rtionship with the Fairchild family, her causing such amotion inevitably implicated them. It was undeniable that the Fairchilds suffered the most from this incident. However, instead of trying to limit the damage and distance himself from Calista, Kallum astonishingly chose to vouch for her.


    Given that Kallum had pledged his guarantee, the chubby officer didn''t dare to hinder him from leaving. Regardless of the methods used, it was only a matter of three days, a dy he could afford. If questioned by superiors, he would simply shift the me onto the Fairchilds. After all, he couldn''t forcibly restrain Kallum.


    "In that case, I''ll be patiently awaiting your good news..." The officer subtly shifted to one side, and the SWAT officers behind him simultaneously cleared a path.


    Without any hesitation, Kallum personally escorted Calista away. As they passed by, they inevitably attracted the attention of the crowd.


    This was a national crisis. Protecting Calista was akin to defying the entire nation. Even with the Fairchild family''s influence and wealth, mishandling this situation could lead to significant repercussions.


    All of this was because of this woman... What kind of charm did she possess to make Kallum Fairchild, the country''s leading arms dealer and a man of immense wealth and youthful aplishment, disregard everything for her? Even if it meant standing against the world?


    All eyes were on Calista, whose current state was far from morous. Her visage was marred by swelling and scars, herplexion ghostly pale. One had to wonder what unique allure she held that couldpel Kallum, a young and sessful arms dealer of considerable stature, to risk so much.


    Oveing numerous obstacles, Kallum and Calista drew the attention of many people. They halted in their tracks, gathering around to spectate. The patrol team mulled over intervening but hesitated, given Kallum''s influential status. With senior officers in the quarantine area refraining from acting, they saw little reason to escte the situation themselves.


    The atmosphere in the quarantine area was thick with tension, a palpable silence hanging over the area as everyone braced for potential turmoil.


    At the entrance stood a distinguished gentleman in his fifties, his hairpletely white, nked by only two guards whose formidable demeanor spoke volumes of their capability.


    Upon spotting the man, Kallum paused briefly before confidently approaching with Calista in tow. "Mr. President."


    The sudden recognition of the man''s identity by Kallum caught Calista off guard. She looked up, shock registering on her face as she realized the gravity of her situation¡ªthe President himself hade to intercept her.


    The President, a paragon of righteousness, managed a graceful smile despite the confrontation. "Why must it specifically be her you''re taking away?"


    It seems that the chubby military officer had already reported the situation.


    Kallum replied, "Callie is an


    exceptional talent in the field of medical research. You must have


    heard it was she who conquerede


    the Influenza T epidemic in Lostaria previously. Therefore, this time, she is the only one who can resolve the side effects of the antiserum and save those who have been infected!"


    Acknowledging this, the President added thoughtfully, "Yet, she is now a crucial asset. Letting her go could incite widespread panic. And what if she fails to deliver within three days?"


    Without a trace of hesitation, Kallum asserted, "I will bear all resultant losses-be it in reputation, status, or influence."


    The President, who held Kallum in high regard from their past coboration, sighed regretfully at Kallum''s words. "If she doesn''t seed, your family will face severe repercussions, and you will be denounced as a traitor."


    "Why entertain such a pessimistic view?" Kallum countered, a chuckle escaping him.


    His expression, even under the cloak of night, was undimmed by fatigue; his eyes sparkled with unshakeabl? confidence. "I trust her. Once she


    triumphs, not only will this crisis be resolved, but the Fairchild family will emerge as a beacon of admiration worldwide. Then, everyone will see that today''s actions were guided by wisdom."


    ¡°So, your gamble is for glory?" the President probed.


    "No, I''m doing this for her," Kallum replied, looking down at Calista, his smile lingering. "She deserves the world''s attention long before now. She just never had the right opportunity. I''m providing her with that chance, hoping she will seize it and distinguish herself."


    Calista felt a profound stir within her heart. Be it in her previous or current life, her potential had long been overlooked, awaiting just one opportunity to shine. Now, faced with such a moment, she sensed the weight of expectation resting on her shoulders.


    The President''s interest in her was evident, recognizing her as not only extraordinarily intelligent but also favored by one of the nation''s most esteemed figures.

 Chapter 418 What Am I To You

    How did she manage to do that?


    Hence, the President asked her with a smile, "Youngdy, Kallum has undertaken extraordinary measures on your behalf. What do you have to say in response to his actions?"


    Even in her state of disarray, with her appearance far from pristine, Calista''s eyes sparkled with an intense, cold brilliance, reminiscent of stars illuminating the dark night sky.


    "The only thing I can promise is that I won''t let him down," she dered firmly, her resolve clear.


    The President gave a nod of understanding and approval.


    At this point in the crisis, betting on Calista''s proven skills seemed a more prudent strategy than adhering to more conservative approaches. Her previous sess in swiftly handling the Influenza T epidemic stood as a testament to her abilities. Moreover, she had been the one to develop the antiserum; surely, she could handle its side effects as well.


    "Very well, you may go... But remember, you have only three days," he cautioned her.


    Kallum exhaled a deep sigh of relief upon receiving the President''s endorsement, his gratitude evident as he responded warmly, "Thank you, Mr. President!"


    Gratitude was swiftly followed by action; he wasted no additional time and immediately began to usher Calista away. The urgency of the situation was palpable, and Kallum had many responsibilities calling for his leadership. There was simply no time for dy.


    As he helped Calista into the vehicle, Kallum chose not to join her inside right away.


    Instead, he bent down and tenderly kissed her forehead. "Take a bath when you get home, try not to dwell too much on today, and get some good rest. Just be careful not to wet your wound. We''ll talk more after you''ve had some sleep," he instructed softly.


    "Where are you off to?" Calista asked, her voice hoarse and weak.


    "I''ve got a small issue to take care of. I expect to find you asleep by the time I get back," Kallum replied, his tone casual yet caring. He gently stroked her hair, his touch reassuring. "Don''t worry, Gunner will be there to ensure your safety. Once you''re home, you''ll be safe."


    Calista felt the weight of the chaos she needed to address and tightened her grip on his sleeve before reluctantly letting go. "All right."


    "Good girl!" Kallum eximed, his voice filled with pride at herpliance, which brought him immense satisfaction.


    Just as he was about to close the car door, Calista''s voice stopped him. "What am I to you?"


    What was she to me?


    Kallum chuckled, almost amused by her question. Without hesitation, he replied, "Silly, you are my everything!"


    His reassuring gaze met hers as he added, "Wait for me to return."


    Then, he shut the door and swiftly got into another vehicle to attend to the pending matter.


    On her way back, Calista''s thoughts churned tumultuously.


    Why had Kallum gone to such lengths for her? Why had he refused to abandon her or me her for the turmoil? Could it truly be because she meant everything to him?


    Despite the current situation directly resulting from her actions, even if she managed to resolve the impending crisis, the damage to the Fairchild family''s reputation might be irreparable. Any prudent head of a family would likely have distanced themselves from her at this juncture.


    They should''ve focused solely on addressing the antiserum''s side effects and saving those affected. If the antiserum proved effective, it could potentially overshadow the prior negative press and elevate the Fairchild family''s status even further. Abandoning her might have seemed the safest strategy.


    Yet here they were, linked together in a situation where any misstep could result


    in significant repercussions. Was it really because she was his everything that he acted with such abandon, risking everything?


    The enduring darkness within Calista began to show signs of fracturing. For the first time since her reincarnation, she felt utterly lost and helpless, the unfamiliar sensation of vulnerability gripping her tightly.


    Upon arriving at the Fairchild Manor, Wanda and Ss, along with her father, were already waiting for her. As Calista spotted Wanda through the car window, a wave of guilt washed over her.


    After all, she was the one who had stirred up this whole mess. What struck her as odd though, was that Ss didn''t seem irritated in the slightest. Instead, he was waiting for her, just like Wanda.


    "Callie!" Wanda''s voice was filled with relief and joy at seeing Calista, but her expression quickly shifted to one of distress as she took in Calista''s battered state. "What happened to you? Who did this? It''s absolutely inhumane!"


    Calista simply shook her head, her throat too sore to articte the whirlwind of emotions and events.


    Wanda, noticing Calista''s difort, quicklyposed herself and reassured her, "It''s good that you''re back. We''re safe here. We can talk about everything elseter."


    Benedict, overwhelmed by guilt, spected that his decision to shelter Yelena might have inadvertently led to Calista''s current predicament. Would she have been safer if she remained with the Fairchild family from the start?


    After some rest, which allowed her throat to recover slightly, Calista expressed her deep regret to Wanda. "I''m sorry... I''ve made a mess of things..."


    Had she been a bit more cautious, the day''s events wouldn''t have unfolded as they did. She was overly confident, presuming she could emerge unscathed, while neglecting to ount for unforeseen circumstances.


    Wanda shook her head dismissively, grasping Calista''s hand reassuringly. "Nonsense. If you hadn''t dealt with those terrorists who snuck into Horington, who knows what horrors they might havemitted to achieve their objectives?"


    Wanda was right. If Kiefer hadn''t fixated on Calista right from the beginning, he might well have orchestrated a devastating terrorist attack in Horington. Such an act could have involved taking innocent civilians hostage, or perhaps even resorting to killing some to send a stark message to Kallum. In this scenario, the Fairchilds would have inevitably found themselves on the back foot, forced into a defensive posture.


    Calista blinked, her expression registering a fleeting mix of surprise and


    realization. It was somewhat astonishing to think that her act of rescuing Ambrose


    could wield such significant ramifications.


    However...

 Chapter 419 I Will Bathe You

    Suddenly filled with regret, Calista closed her eyes and said, "You don''t need to console me anymore. I''m the cause of over a hundred people getting infected, which led to panic across the country. I understand the severity of this situation. If only I had been more careful..."


    Upon seeing her thoughts, Wanda felt a mix of amusement and despair, "Callie, if we''re going by that logic, then I should primarily me Kallum. If it weren''t for him, you wouldn''t have caught the infection and we wouldn''t be in today''s


    predicament."


    Calista opened her mouth to speak, but Wanda cut her off, "Nobody wished for such a situation to ur, but solving it takes priority. Your intentions have always been good, and you''ve done so much already. There''s really no need to be overly hard on yourself."


    After Wanda finished speaking, Ss added, "You''ve done very well."


    Benedict rubbed his nose and said with a hint of embarrassment in his voice, "I admit I was wrong in this matter too. I sent Yelena away as soon as I got home. Callie, could you please not be mad at me?"


    Calista hadn''t expected that they wouldn''t me her. The enormity of the crisis that the Fairchild family was currently facing was obvious. Benedict even had egg whites on him, which clearly indicated that he had also fought his way out of the office building. She had brought such a huge trouble, and yet, these people weren''t ming her at all.


    "All right; stop overthinking. I''ll get you cleaned up. Take some time to rest properly."


    "With the situation being so tense, how could I possibly rest now?" Calista said tly.


    Wanda couldn''t help but give her a yful re. "Being fully prepared will not dy one''s job but quicken the process. If you don''t rest well, how will you have the energy to deal with the side effects of the antiserum?"


    As she spoke, she ushered Calista toward the bathroom. "Come on! This time, I''ll bathe you!"


    Calista was injured, so she indeed couldn''t manage to wash herself.


    Stripped naked and seated in the bath, Calista was still somewhat dazed. Why has my world, which I have perceived as harsh and cruel, suddenly be so gentle and forgiving?


    She had grown ustomed to her solitude, to the schemes and exclusion of others. But now, it was as if she had suddenly fallen from a cold, monochrome space into a vibrant, brightly colored one. It was like the colorful bubbles in the bath, the warm, misty steam, and Wanda''s caring hand gentlynding on her back.


    Calista was incredibly tense as she became acutely aware of her surroundings. The unusual warmth enveloped her, leaving her feeling out of ce. It felt as if she didn''t quite belong. Suddenly, Wanda gave Calista''s waist a gentle squeeze. "What are you thinking about?"


    Snapping back to reality, a swift blush spread across Calista''s face.


    In a state of utter confusion, she had allowed Wanda to bathe her.


    Considering the fact that she was injured, it seemed somewhat justifiable for


    things to be this way. However, it still felt rather weird.


    Wanda was secretly amazed at how great Calista''s skin looked. It was tender, fair, and stic. Kallum sure is a lucky man!


    If Calista knew Wanda''s thoughts at that moment, she would have been absolutely exasperated. Clutching her chest nervously, she said, "I can do this on my own, Aunt Wanda."


    "That simply won''t do!"


    Wanda was not swayed by the tense atmosphere outside. Her heart was small and only filled with her family. As for the storms of the outside world, she decided to let the men handle them. Seeing how shy Calista was, she couldn''t help butugh.


    "I had long hoped to have a daughter, to dress her up and raise her like a princess. Unfortunately, Kallum was such a strong-willed child that giving birth to him took a toll on my health. If not, I would have definitely given him a little sister."


    Calista tried to picture a young Kallum with a little sister trailing behind him. Hmm... I just can''t seem to imagine it.


    Wanda offered to wash Calista''s back, but her offer was met with a blushing refusal. Seeing that Calista was genuinely shy, Wanda, although disappointed, decided to let her be. Only when she saw Calista was capable of washing herself with her right hand, did Wanda finally step back. After all, she did not want to make Calista feel ufortable.


    Calista, however, felt embarrassed


    even though Wanda was just


    standing there. She asked Wanda to


    fetch some anti-inmmatory medicine from her room. She also


    secretly knew how to prepare some


    herself, never expecting it would actuallye in handy someday.


    After Wanda handed it over to her, Calista applied the greenish medicated cream onto her neck. She then gently massaged and patted the area, allowing the ointment to absorb into her skin.


    Viewed from the side, her profile was still remarkably attractive. Her damp, long hair clung to her fair skin. It looked as if she were a piece of exquisite artwork.


    "Callie," Wanda suddenly called out to her in a hushed tone.


    "Yes?"


    "When did Kallum im you?"


    Having been caught off guard, Calista suddenly struggled to catch her breath, and began to cough violently.


    Startled, Wanda quickly tried to soothe her by rubbing her back.


    "My goodness! I was just asking!


    You were bold enough to say it in front of a crowd back then, but now you''re being shy in front of your godmother?" Wanda teasingly remarked, referring to the day


    Calista reincarnated and forced Kallum to verify her virginity.


    Indeed, Calista had publicly dered herself to be Kallum''s woman.


    Calista caught a glimpse of the intense curiosity in Wanda''s eyes. It was truly a situation where she was suffering but couldn''t voice it out. Despite the tense atmosphere outside, Wanda still had the mood to ask her such questions.


    "Is it inconvenient for you to talk about it?"


    Calista quickly shook her head in response. Worried that Wanda would ask even more inappropriate questions, she hurriedly stopped her.

 Chapter 420 I Do Not Look Good Right Now

    "I''m done with my bath. Could you help me dry my back?" At this point, she didn''t care about being seen naked anymore. Staying in the bathroom any longer was simply too terrifying for her. Unexpectedly, her usually kind and loving godmother seemed to have a perverted side.


    As expected, Wanda''s attention was indeed diverted. However, in the end, she yfully patted her very firm buttocks and said teasingly, "Kallum is indeed more fortunate than his father!"


    The underlying implications of that statement were truly terrifying, so Calista decided to pretend she hadn''t heard it at all.


    After washing up, Calista was originally nning to head to theb, but Wanda said, "You''ve been worn out for a full day and night, so take some time to rest properly. We women shouldn''t be so hard on ourselves. Besides, Kallum can handle things out there."


    Even though she felt irresponsible for passing on her burdens to others, and she was consumed with guilt for lying idle while everyone else was busy, when Calista heard that everything was still under control and about Kallum''s involvement, an inexplicable sense of tranquility washed over her.


    So, is this what it feels like to be protected? Could this be what trust feels like? I''ve always been fighting my battles alone, but for the first time, I am wholeheartedly entrusting all my trials and tribtions to another person. I don''t have to fear betrayal or abandonment. This feeling sure is unexpectedly beautiful! With certain questions lingering in her mind, Calista initially thought she would have trouble falling asleep. However, in reality, she drifted off quite quickly.


    When Kallum returned home, his face etched with exhaustion, it was already nine in the morning. Not wanting to cause Calista any worry, he massaged his temples and rallied his spirits before stepping through the front door.


    Calista was still asleep at the time. She had only gone to bed at five in the morning and was now in the deepest phase of her sleep. The medicine had worked wonders, as her face and neck were no longer swollen. However, there was still a horrifying ring of bruise around her neck.


    Upon seeing her haggard appearance, Kallum found it hard to bear. He gently touched her forehead, and only after confirming her temperature was normal, he breathed a sigh of relief. He sat down by the bed, and for a moment there, he didn''t want to move at all.


    When Calista woke up, she was greeted by the sight of a young man with delicate features curled up on the edge of the bed in a somewhat ufortable sleeping position. As if he was afraid of waking her, his tall frame only upied a small portion of the bed. Even so, his face was very close, and Calista could see his wless skin, nted eyebrows, and long, curled eyshes.


    Kallum had foreign ancestry in his lineage, the best of which he had inherited. Calista knew this well. When he opened his eyes, which was the most captivating feature of his face, they were dazzlingly radiant like a peerless treasure.


    Seemingly aware of Calista''s gaze, Kallum''s eyshes fluttered. However, the moment he opened his eyes, his vision was abruptly plunged into darkness. It turned out that Calista had covered his eyes.


    "What''s wrong?" Kallum asked, a hint of confusion in his voice. He reached out to move her hand away as he spoke, but Calista stubbornly continued to cover his eyes with her hand.


    "I suddenly realized that you''re quite handsome."


    Her voice came through with such seriousness that it took Kallum aback. Gradually, he rxed under her touch, and said with a chuckle, "You must not have paid much attention to me before, then."


    Wasn''t I always handsome?


    Calista moved a bit closer, while Kallum turned to his side. He could sense her slightly approaching breath, along with the faint, almost imperceptible scent of medicine.


    The twoy side by side, gazing at each other. Only her infuriatingly small hand obstructed the view between them.


    "Why won''t you let me see you?¡± Kallum asked in a muted tone.


    Calista remained silent for a long while.


    "I don''t look good right now."


    Following that, she issued her ultimatemand, "So, until I be more attractive, you''re not allowed to look at me."


    Kallum wore a face full of confusion but once he caught on, he suddenly pulled Calista into an embrace.


    Eve though her hand still covered his eyes, by now, Kallum''s face was already slightly above hers. Separated by just her hand, he could sense their lips were mere millimeters apart.


    "Why won''t you let me see you? Has my youngdy finallye to her senses and realized she wants to look pretty in front of the man she likes?" he asked, unable to hold back hisughter.


    ???;


    Calista pursed her lips, instinctively wanting to throw a few insults his way. But before she could utter a word, Kallum silenced her with a single finger pressed against her lips. "Your little mouth is fond of saying one thing but meaning another. I don''t want to hear anything that might ruin the mood."


    Calista remained silent for a long time, finally letting out a muffled grunt. I am not


    one to say one thing but mean another!


    "Actually, the way you are now is


    good too. Every time I take you out, it''s as if everyone''s eyes are glued to you. It frustrates me so much that always want to whisk you away, hide you somewhere only I can see, a ce that belongs to me alone!" Kallum said with augh


    Calista''s face flushed slightly. She


    gently bit her tower lip, gazing at Kallum who was close at hand, his


    face wearing a smile. Then, she


    suddenly said, "But I''m really good at getting into trouble, and I won''t


    change!"


    My goodness! This arrogant attitude truly is the result of being overly pampered! Kallum slightly curved his lips at the thought of that. Unable to resist the urge to gently pinch her face, he naughtily pulled her cheeks from both sides.


    "Callie, how is it that you be more adorable with each passing day? This won''t do! At this rate, I can''t help but want to keep you by my side every day!"


    "Kallum!" This guy is as consistently irreverent as ever!


    But at that moment, Kallum suddenly grew serious.

 Chapter 421 Thank You For Teaching Me What Love Is

    "Callie," he called her name, his tone serious. Although she couldn''t see his eyes, Calista could sense his eyshes fluttering rapidly beneath her palm. He seemed nervous and was not as carefree andposed as he appeared to be.


    "Thank you," Kallum said.


    "Why are you suddenly thanking me?"


    Kallum chuckled lightly, his gaze seemingly fixed on her as if he was contemting in his mind how to articte his thoughts. It took him a few seconds before he finally said, "When I used to be into you, all I wanted was to im you. Back then, you were disobedient, always trying to provoke me, and that just made me want to im you even more."


    He was referring to the early days of their rtionship, a time characterized by an invasive style of interaction.


    "Later on, my thoughts became more extreme. Even though we interacted daily without me putting any pressure on you, I found myself thinking more than once that if you couldn''t defeat the virus, I would rather drag you down with me. I love you, and I simply couldn''t bear the thought of you being with another man if I were to die. Just the mere thought of it made me want to destroy the world."


    He shed a grin, his pearly white teeth contrasting his fairplexion, creating a captivating image. Yet, Calista couldn''t help but sense a hint of bitterness in his gaze at that moment.


    "You see, I''ve always been a selfish person. From childhood, I simply took whatever I desired. There were no obstacles in my path. Even if there were, it didn''t matter as I always got what I wanted. So, in my mind, the concept of giving without expecting anything in return never existed. If I gave, I was certain to receive something in return, and it had to be double the value of what I give. But now, with you, I''m beginning to experience a different feeling."


    As he spoke to this point, Kallum seemed somewhat uncertain, carefully choosing his words as he continued,


    "That feeling is akin to satisfaction, tolerance, or perhaps devotion. Huh... I never thought such words existed in my vocabry, but that is the truth. I found myself increasingly content in devoting myself to you, much like a follower toward his religion. As long as you ept me, I am satisfied. My devotion to you was born out of love, and when I give, I truly never expect anything in return.¡±


    After having spoken so much, Kallum seemed somewhat embarrassed. He spoke lightly yet earnestly as he uttered each word and sentence.


    "So, thank you for teaching me what love is. I was very immature before, but I won''t be anymore. I love you," he dered, willing to profess it to her every day with the same devotion as a religious follower.


    After finishing his words, Kallum held his breath and waited for Calista''s response. What he didn''t realize was that, at some point, Calista''s face had be streaked with tears.


    Tears silently trickled down her temples, one drop at a time. She stared at the man before her, who anxiously awaited her response. She remained silent, afraid that her voice would crack if she spoke.


    How could I allow myself to cry? How could I reveal such a vulnerable side of myself? Shouldn''t I have lost the ability to shed tears long ago?


    "Callie?" Kallum called her name, then reached out, intending to remove the hand she was covering his eyes with.


    Somewhat flustered, Calista hastily wiped away her tears and quickly said, "Don''t look at me!"


    Kallum felt that her reaction was off, and a sense of urgency crept in. He quickly pulled her hand down, only to have Calista suddenly turn around and bury her face into the pillow.


    Feeling puzzled, Kallum looked at her and asked, "What''s wrong? Did something I say upset you?"


    Hitting a nerve wasn''t a new experience for him. Although he felt somewhat anxious asking about it now, he also felt rather calm about it.


    Calista stubbornly buried her face in


    be


    her pillow, refusing to move. As her unusual behavior puzzled Kallum,, tried to gently move her face into view and ask her what was wrong. However, all he found was the dampness of her tears soaking the pillow.


    Callie is crying?


    He quickly turned her over, and sure enough, Calista''s beautiful eyes were red


    with a hint of panic. She resembled a small, helpless rabbit.


    Almost instinctively, she reached up to cover her face, concealing the scar that marred her features. Her sparkling eyes, now even more. prominent, evoked a deep sense of


    affection from those who b


    her


    "Don''t cry!"


    Kallum was panicking a little. I thought that my confession would make her very


    happy. Why is she crying instead?


    "I''m not crying!" Calista stubbornly shook her head, ring at him as she


    continued, "My eyes just suddenly felt ufortable!"


    Kallum pondered for a moment before deciding not to expose her terrible lie. He


    let out a helpless chuckle, lowered his head, and gently blew on her eyes.


    "Do they feel a bit better now?"


    As a result, his unintentional action led to a sudden outpouring of crystal-clear tears from Calista''s eyes. They fell one by one, like pearls slipping off a broken string.


    In an instant, Kallum was thrown into a state of shock. All I did was blow on her eyes!


    Calista shoved Kallum with her right


    hand, once again burying her face


    into the pillow and bursting into


    tears. She was really crying, the kind that seemed to vent all her grievances, much like a child''s


    uncontroble sobbing.


    Calista''s voice was tinged with a sob as she yelled, "Why did you blow on my


    eyes? Your blowing only made them hurt even more!"


    It took a moment for Kallum to react before he found himself helplessly trying to


    coax her.


    "Yes, it''s all my fault. I shouldn''t have blown made your eyes even more ufortable by blowing on them. The me is entirely mine," he admitted.

 Chapter 422 Laughing At A Time Like This

    Such unprincipled, weak, and soft words would have never been uttered by


    Kallum in his wildest dreams. However, because of her, everything seemed to flow naturally.


    He carefully reached out and gently patted her shoulder.


    "Could you stop crying, please? It''s breaking my heart to see you like this. If you''re upset, angry, or unhappy, just take it out on me..."


    Calista had her head buried in the pillow when she heard him say that. Without a second thought, she stretched out her leg and gave him a swift kick.


    After receiving a kick, Kallum let out a dramatic scream, swiftly "falling" to the ground.


    Upon hearing a muffled sound, Calista subtly turned her head to look. A snow- white pillow concealed most of his face, leaving only a reddened, gleaming eye peering out at an angle. It looked both pitiful and wary at the same time.


    Kallum had initially nned to feign pain, but when he saw her looking over, he couldn''t resist. Like a ravenous wolf lunging for its prey, he leaped from the ground onto the bed.


    "What are you looking at? Afraid I''ll get hurt? Has my little darling finally learned to care for others?"


    Calista, with a huff, hid her face again and eximed, "Why didn''t you die from the fall?"


    Kallum gave a shameless grin. "How could I possibly die? If I did, wouldn''t you be left a widow? I couldn''t bear to do that to you..."


    Shameless! Absolutely shameless! This jerk has no decency at all!


    Calista berated him in her heart, even despising herself. Why did I even cry? His words weren''t even that touching! There must be something wrong with my body, even my tear ducts have malfunctioned.


    With these thoughts in mind, she fiercely wiped away her tears, but still turned her back, unwilling to let Kallum see her in such a state. Kallum saw her turning her back to him, moving from one side of the bed to the other in frustration.


    When Calista saw him draw near, she instinctively turned her body to the other side. In response, Kallum hastily backed off.


    Why is he so annoying?


    "Callie, Callie, don''t ignore me please! Look, I hurried back right away just to see you! Let me have a look... You are always so adorable!"


    "Don''t use those cheesy words on me!"


    Calista simply sat up, having cried her heart out already. He has seen me crying, so what else is there to hide?


    Upon seeing that Calista was finally not hiding from him anymore and even ring at him with red-rimmed eyes and a reddened nose, he really wanted to pull her into his arms and tease her. Unfortunately, the situation was too tense to do so.


    "Alright, alright, I''ll stop talking. I''ll be quiet," he said. "But tell me, have I managed to endear myself to you a little bit more?"


    His shamelessness and submissiveness left Calista in a dilemma, with no solutions at hand.


    "I can''t stand the sight of you!"


    Upon hearing this, Kallum raised an eyebrow and abruptly pulled Calista into his arms. He gave her bottom a yful smack and feigned a stern tone. "Lying earns you a spanking!"


    "Kallum!" Calista was truly losing her mind. Ignoring her own injured hand, she tackled him to the ground.


    In their intimate position, with her on top and him below, Kallum found himself looking directly into her sparkling eyes. There seemed to be a struggle within her. Is it because of me?


    "Don''te any closer..." she uttered inexplicably and then attempted to leave. But the moment she moved, Kallum rolled over, pulling her into his embrace and pinning her beneath him. He was careful, though, to avoid her injuries.


    "That won''t do!" He shed a grin, his eyes brimming with determination. "You are mine!"


    Surprisingly, Calista didn''t protest immediately.


    At that moment, a phone call came in, shattering their rare moment of passion.


    After he answered the call, the delight in Kallum''s eyes gradually turned grim.


    After he finished the phone call, his demeanor had be icy, a stark contrast to his usual self.


    "What''s the matter?" Calista spected that the issue must have been caused by Kallum taking her away.


    Upon hearing her voice, Kallum lowered his head and offered aforting smile. "It''s nothing. Some troublemakers have leaked the news of me taking you away. Then, Some with an agenda are leading a public protest with the rtives of the patients. I''ll have someone deal with it right away."


    Calista, however, caught his hand as he was about to make a call.


    "How should we handle this


    situation? Suppressing the worried families of the patients will only backfire. Perhaps we should hold a press conference. Otherwise, in theing days, those with ulterior motives will continuously exploit them to create trouble, preventing my research from progressing."


    Kallum hesitated for a moment. A press conference was inevitable, and Calista


    had to be present. However, he was unsure if she could withstand the verbal


    onught from the crowd, given her current physical and emotional state.


    However, Calista had made up her mind. "We need to issue the statement now, or else we''ll be at a disadvantage when they make their next move."


    Kallum lowered his head, nting a kiss on her face, and said with a smile,


    "Alright, your wish is mymand, Wifey!"


    Calista couldn''t help but re at him. "How can you stillugh at a time like this?"


    Kallum''s lips were still curled into a smile, his gaze unwaveringly resolute, his defiance telling.


    "Haven''t you mentioned this before?"


    "Hmm?"


    "I asked you why you were fond of me, and you said it was because you found my confidence dazzling, as if nothing could ever trouble me. So, in order


    r for you to continue liking me, I decided I would never be defeated. So why can''t Iugh at a time like


    this?"


    His confidence seemed to have rubbed off on Calista, causing the tension in her


    heart to ease slightly.

 Chapter 423 The Press Conference

    Recalling Wanda''s previousment that with Kallum around, there was no need to worry, Calista suddenly lifted her head and nted a kiss on his face.


    Kallum was taken aback, staring at her in bewilderment.


    Calista deliberately avoided eye contact, nervously whispering, "You once told me that my encouragement was your greatest motivation. So, if I kiss you, we are bound to win!"


    When he noticed her subtle nervousness and shyness, Kallum suddenly clutched his chest, speaking in an absurdly dramatic tone. "Callie, let me be honest with you! I''m actually feeling quite insecure and scared... How about you give me a few more kisses to invigorate me further?"


    ¡°Ugh, enough already! Hurry up and issue the announcement!"


    Calista couldn''t help but reach out to tug on his ear; her ring expression was rather fierce. I can''t believe how annoying he can be!


    "Ouch! I''m going... I''m going right now. Wifey, please let go!" Although it didn''t hurt, Kallum yed along, crying out dramatically. Despite being a grown man, he shamelessly acted cute.


    "Pah! Who says I''m your wife?"


    With a stern and serious expression, Kallum responded, "You''ve touched and kissed me, ruining my reputation in the process. And now, you''re thinking of not taking responsibility?"


    Calista was utterly speechless. "Get lost!"


    "Understood, Wifey!"


    After he finished, Kallum straightened his clothes, brimming with energy as he headed toward the door. Just before he stepped out, he suddenly turned back and said, "Dear Wifey, once this matter is resolved, may I request the consummation of our marriage as a reward?"


    Calista furiously hurled a pillow at him.


    "Dream on!"


    Kallum acted swiftly. If a press conference was to be held, the first thing he needed to do was to extricate Callie from the situation, preferably by pinning the me on someone else.


    Although it might not have been the most ethical course of action, Kiefer was the one who started the trouble. Since might made right, thetter simply had iting.


    After figuring out a strategy, Kallum needed the government''s cooperation, and more importantly, he needed the fugitives in prison. As a result, his workload increased slightly.


    Calista kept coaxing herself to sleep in her mind. After she finally managed to calm her thoughts and sleep for a few hours, someone came with news. They informed her that the press conference was all set and ready, inviting her toe


    over.


    Kallum was aware that this time, they were up against public opinion. Therefore, in order to protect Calista, he devised a strategy and hired best public rtions team to execute it. Over fifty people work tirelessly for several hours, and finally, everything was ready.


    All that was left was to face it head on.


    Kallum had booked thergest square in Horington. The families of the patients, the protesters, and the journalists had all rushed over. The square, which could amodate a hundred thousand people, was packed to the brim. In the center, a temporary podium had been set up on the stage. Everything was ready; all that was left was their performance.


    Beneath the stage, throngs of people were raising banners and shouting. Some were demanding the execution of Calista, advocating for a life for a life. Others used the Fairchild family of sheltering Calista and called for a nationwide boycott against them.


    They were passionately shouting from below the stage, some even secretly armed with stones and the like, just waiting for Calista to appear so they could overwhelm her on stage.


    Fortunately, the Fairchild family had dispatched over a thousand people to maintain order, and the government was also secretly assisting, so no major chaos had erupted for the time being.


    After a while, someone took the stage and the crowd gradually hushed, with only the incessant clicking of the reporters'' cameras breaking the silence.


    The first to arrive weren''t Kallum or Calista, but rather a group of injured foreigners. They were all handcuffed, heads bowed. Their bodies were covered in scrapes, bruises, and fractures, making for a distressing appearance.


    The sudden appearance of the foreigners had everyone taken aback. At that moment, Levi stepped onto the stage. After a brief introduction, he refrained from any unnecessary chatter and went straight to the point.


    "I understand that everyone is here because of the K virus leak. Everyone suspects that Ms. Stafford is the cause, but in reality, she''s also a victim!"


    As soon as he said those words, the crowd instantly became agitated.


    "Are you tryin to clear Calista''s name? My son only infected because he identally came into contact with her blood that was spilled on the ground. My son is only eight years old!"


    "B*stard! You''re trying to fool us, but we won''t be tricked! Hand over Calista, she deserves to be executed!"


    "The Fairchild family, despite being renowned in Chanaea, is shockingly sheltered Calista. It seems they''re not as virtuous as they appear. We shouldn''t believe their lies!"


    Facing the riled-up crowd, Levi was not at all flustered because the team behind him had already anticipated this situation.


    "You''re right. This matter is indeed tied to the Fairchild family and can''t be ignored."


    Unexpectedly, Levi actually admitted it. Many people quieted down, waiting to hear what he had to say.


    Pointing at the prisoners on stage, Levi continued, "These individuals are all fugitives who have fled from our allied country, Lostaria. Everyone should still remember the upheaval in Lostara two years ago. It was a time of crisis, and someone stepped forward to assist the Lostaria government in turning the tide, conquering influenza T. Although this event wasn''t widely publicized at the time, as citizens of Horington, we all should know that Mr. Kallum yed an indispensable role in the swift resolution of the war in Lostaria!"


    The crowd gradually calmed down. They were all well aware of Kallum''s exploits


    in Lostaria, which they themselves had bragged about often.

 Chapter 424 The Foreign Conspirators

    After all, he was a national hero who hailed from their very own city of Horington.


    Moreover, he was no ordinary man. He hailed from a wealthy family, powerful enough to rival nations. Such a person should have stayed above the fray of worldly matters. Yet, scenes of Kallum leading the charge in the battlefield of Lostaria asionally made their way back through war reports. His unyielding and valiant fighting spirit added anotheryer to the aura surrounding him.


    Hence, even though the Fairchild family didn''t intentionally publicize it due to Kallum''s infection, the general public was still able to learn about Kallum''s exploits in Lostaria through reports, and they felt a sense of pride because of it.


    Seeing them deep in thought, Levi breathed a sigh of relief and continued, "The leader of the chaos in Lostaria, Kiefer, once suffered a great loss at the hands of Mr. Kallum. Therefore, after his plot failed, he harbored a deep-seated grudge against Mr. Kallum. Despite being wanted by thirteen countries, he still risked it all and smuggled himself here by sea with hundreds of his men, seeking revenge on Mr. Kallum. The people on the stage are all his subordinates. This evening, during the news broadcast, Chanaea Television would announce each of their names and statuses, verifying what I say as truth!"


    The crowd was puzzled. What do these international political situations have to do with the viral outbreak that is currently guing Horington?


    Levi exined, ¡°Last night, Mr. Kallum apprehended Kiefer, a significant achievement. However, before that, Kiefer had sent over a hundred men to capture Ms. Stafford, intending to use her as leverage against Mr. Kallum. Despite their efforts, the astute Ms. Stafford evaded capture, but not without sustaining a gunshot wound to her shoulder. Those despicable terrorists, aiming to incite widespread panic in the city and inflict substantial loss on Mr. Kallum, contaminated the bullet with a virus. Therefore, Ms. Stafford only contracted the infectionst night!"


    A single statement caused an uproar among the crowd below. Is it true that Calista was infected just yesterday? Some witnesses recalled the sight of Calista''s arm bleeding profusely the night before. Could all of this have been a plot by foreign terrorists?


    "Lies! Calista had been researching the K virus a long time ago. She must have gotten infected herself, that''s why she''s been researching it so hard! Or maybe she identally got infected during her research. You people should stop wasting your energy trying to clear her name!"


    Instinctively, Levi nced at the person who had spoken. That individual seemed incredibly uneasy, having fanned the mes of fire. They quickly hid within the crowd, fearful of being discovered.


    The public began to harbor doubts, primarily because Calista had been consistently studying the K virus. The possibility that she could be infected, or might have already been infected, was a very usible exnation.


    Levi sneered, "If Ms. Stafford was infected long ago, why would she carelessly expose herself like that? Those who saw herst night would have noticed that she was stumbling along, barely conscious. A gunshot to the shoulder wouldn''t have caused this. It was because she was feverish and not fully aware, doesn''t this prove that she was recently infected?"


    Levi cleverly shifted the me for Calista''s unsteady walk, which was unclear, to having a fever due to an initial infection.


    Others didn''t understand just how


    severe the gunshot to her arm was. They instinctively believed Levi''s


    words, assuming that Calista waset


    unaware of her infection and the subsequent fever that had set in.


    with a gunshot wound to the shoulder not see the path ahead clearly?


    After all, how could someone w


    Seeing the crowd''s anger seemingly subside considerably, someone grew impatient and shouted out.


    "He was lying. Calista was clearly infected long ago! Besides, even if Calista was only infected yesterday, she''s a virus researcher herself. She should have known what was going on the moment she had a fever. Yet, she still went to popted areas, it was obviously deliberate! This whole mess was stirred up by the Fairchild family and Calista. There''s no doubt about it. Even if there were terrorists involved, they were the ones who invited trouble! And then, we, the ordinary folks, got dragged into it. The Fairchild family must be held ountable!"


    This time, the instigator of public opinion was swiftly apprehended. Two burly men, d in neat ck attire, hoisted the petite man onto the stage. As he struggled, his voice grew shrill with fear.


    "Why are you holding me? Can''t a person speak the truth anymore? It''s the Fairchild family who''s brought trouble upon us ordinary people! Do you think you can escape me and be forgiven? Let me tell you..."


    As he was speaking, his words abruptly halted. This was because he saw a man, slowly making his way onto the stage and moving toward him...


    For the first time, Kallum donned a suit of pure ck. It entuated his towering and upright figure, his chiseled features gave off a hostile aura. As soon as he made his appearance, he immediatelymanded the attention of the entire


    venue.


    "Speak up, why aren''t you continuing?"


    The low, pleasant voice carried a domineering undertone. Kallum watched the man who was clearly hired by someone else, a flicker of disdain shing in the depths of his eyes.


    "Many countries were hoping for discord within Chanaea. With the recent events, I''ve received information that numerous foreign agents have been stirring the pot, bribing unprincipled individuals in an


    attempt to unsettle the public.


    Seeing your frantic behavior, I


    believe it''s necessary to scrutinize your ounts."


    As soon as Kallum appeared, the initially restless atmosphere strangely settled under his dominance. Compared to his once dazzling demeanor, the current Kallum had be much moreposed. Like a pearl, his brilliance was restrained yet impossible to ignore.


    Upon hearing Kallum''s words, the person who was dragged up became rather anxious.

 Chapter 425 The Explanation

    "You greedy bloodsuckers! What right do you have to pry into my finances? So what if a friend suddenly came into wealth and gave me some money to start a business? Don''t you dare try to nder me!"


    Kallumughed at his foolishness. "So, you really do have an unexpected sum of money in your ount?"


    He gestured with his finger. "Take him to the police station. Let them investigate thoroughly."


    "Understood.¡± At Kallum''smand, Derek immediately sprang into action. Ignoring the man''s loud protests, he swiftly escorted him away.


    Making an example out of someone had proven to be quite effective. However, for those genuinely concerned about the safety of their loved ones, seeing the person in charge still got them all worked up. They couldn''t help but be emotional.


    "My child has been harmed for no reason. Don''t the Fairchild family owe us an exnation?"


    "Yeah... My son is only in his twenties and has just earned his medical license, but then..." The old man''s voice trailed off into a quiet sob. Even though the incident involved a foreigner, the root cause was tied to the Fairchild family. Therefore, if someone were to be held responsible, it could only be the Fairchild family.


    Yet, the current situation was far better than Kallum had anticipated. With a swift hand gesture, he had the offenders on stage escorted away, leaving him alone on stage. As he faced the crowd, the pressure from all sides converged on him as everyone awaited his response.


    "I understand how you all feel," he said. "Like everyone else, I too am in pain because my fianc¨¦e, just like your loved ones, is suffering from this virus. But I''m not worried, not because I don''t love her, but because I have a solution."


    He pressed the remote and a boy appeared on therge screen behind him. Busy medical staff could be seen in the background. The boy turned his head toward the camera and said, "Mom, my head doesn''t hurt anymore. I''m okay now..."


    "That''s... That''s!" The child''s family members rushed to the stage. "Is it my son? Is my son alright?!"


    Kallum continued to press the button, bringing up several more people on the screen. They were still under observation, but they were able to share good news with their families through the camera.


    After receiving the antibody injection brought by the Fairchild family, many of the feverish individuals sessfully recovered. Upon hearing this news, Kallum immediately thought to have them record a video as proof. There was no better evidence than them regaining consciousness. After the video was paused, the family members of the patients dropped their protest banners and rushed to the front.


    "Where is my daughter? Why isn''t my daughter here?"


    "Have they really recovered? If they have, why hasn''t it been made public?"


    "Wasn''t it said that if you''re infected with the K virus, you''re definitely going to die? Are they lying to us?"


    Faced with the cacophony, Kallum remained unflustered, slowly beginning to speak. His voice seemed to possess a calming power, gradually silencing the somewhat chaotic scene.


    "They were indeed infected, but


    thanks to the antibody developed by my fianc¨¦e, over a hundred out of the slightly more than one hundred and eighty infected individuals are now out of danger. However, they are still under observation because many people can''t believe that my fianc¨¦e really pulled it off, So, they are still in the quarantine area, undergoing thorough checks."


    Someone couldn''t help but ask, "What about my child? Is my child out of danger?"


    Their gazes were filled with hope, each one wishing that their loved ones were among the hundred or so who were no longer in danger.


    Compared to the skepticism of the higher-ups, they didn''t really care about the potency of the antibody. All they cared about was whether or not their loved ones were among the lucky ones.


    Facing their gazes, Kallum pursed his lips,menting,


    "Those who had awakened were required to stay in the quarantine zone for observation for two days. As for those who hadn''t, it meant that the antibodies were ineffective, and they were still suffering from a fever."


    The crowd instantly became all worked up.


    How can they suddenly give everyone hope, only to plunge a portion of us back into despair?


    Someone shouted, "I don''t care! You guys are the ones who caused this mess, you must ensure my child is safe!"


    "Why couldn''t your fianc¨¦e save everyone if she was able to create this so-called antibody?"


    Upon hearing the demands, Kallum suddenlyughed. A determined glint shed in his eyes.


    ¡°That''s the reason I insisted on taking her with me yesterday."


    Kallum''s words instantly reminded everyone of the reason they had gathered there. They were all there because Kallum had taken the main culprit out of the quarantine zone, which had sparked their indignation and led them to stage a protest.


    "Could it be..." someone remarked incredulously after a moment of contemtion.


    The next second, Kallum confidently answered, "My fianc¨¦e is the most brilliant medical researcher of our time. She has been studying the K virus for two years and is confident that she can defeat it. That''s why I was so desperate to get her out of there. She''s the only one who can heal the remaining people. Only she can do it!"


    In the square, Kallum''s voice echoed through the speakers, unexpectedly instilling


    belief in the crowd. However, the scene was bing increasingly chaotic. Whether to trust Kallum or not had turned into a conundrum.


    A reporter couldn''t help but ask, "The K virus takes at most a month from infection


    to death. Are we supposed to wait for your fianc¨¦e for a month?"


    Upon hearing this, everyone turned their eager eyes to Kallum. Their focus had shifted away from the matter of Calista being taken away Faced with the K-virus, they were all at a loss. Suddenly, when someone who imed to have a solution appeared, they didn''t want to let go of this glimmer of hope. However, they feared that this person might be deceiving them.

 Chapter 426 Calista Speaks

    Before Kallum could even utter a word, a cold and clear female voice sounded.


    "The President granted me three days. After those three days, everything would be clear."


    Calista gradually approached, and the moment she spoke, Kallum was reaching out to assist her as if she were someone fragile.


    Everyone who saw Calista at that moment couldn''t help but sigh. She looked terrible; not a single part of her body was unscathed.


    However, for the rtives who had unjustly suffered, their feelings toward her were even moreplex. Regardless of whether Calista was a victim or not, they firmly believed that it was Calista who had brought misfortune upon their loved


    ones.


    So, when Calista stepped up, the crowd below became considerably emotional. Thanks to the groundworkid earlier, they all knew Calista was their only hope at the moment, which was why they refrained from acting recklessly.


    As soon as Calista made her appearance, the sound of the reporters'' cameras clicking away filled the air.


    Someone asked, "Ms. Stafford, you mentioned that the President gave you three days. If you fail, will those infected die?"


    Before Calista could reply, Kallum spoke on her behalf.


    "It''s not impossible. We can definitely achieve it."


    But the reporter stubbornly asked, "What if you can''t?"


    Calista stopped Kallum, her face, marred with scars, was resolute as she spoke. "If it can''t be done, those people won''t die. The recovery process will just be a bit more challenging. As for me, I''m willing to ept any punishment."


    "Does that include death?" A haggard-looking woman suddenly asked. As all eyes turned to her, she trembled from suppressed emotions, crying out, "Am I wrong? Because of her, my mother has to endure such a cmity in her old age. Why shouldn''t she die?"


    Her words were undeniably true, this situation was difficult for anyone to endure.


    Kallum was about to speak when Calista silenced him, her face calm andposed.


    "You''re right. It''s only fair to pay a life for a life."


    Her words stirred quite amotion. Kallum furrowed his brows, moving her behind him protectively, and spoke solemnly.


    "Rest assured, everyone, all consequences resulting from this matter will be solely borne by the Fairchild family! For hundreds of years, our word has been our bond! In three days, if this matter is


    resolved smoothly, my familel


    will


    provide additionalpensation. Even if there are minor mishaps, I will resolve it to your satisfaction!"


    At that moment, Kallum''s and Calista''s unwavering confidence somewhat pacified the crowd''s anger. Moreover, the sess of the antibody gave them a glimmer of hope.Coupled with the fact that the Fairchild family held significant power and wealth, the crowd was not worried about them shirking their responsibilities.


    After he had momentarily appeased the public''s discontent, Kallum''s pledge became the focus of worldwide attention within a few hours. As a result, the entire world was watching the issue closely.


    "Is it arrogance or a stalling tactic?" This was the question posed when Kallum imed that his fianc¨¦e would decode the K virus within three days.


    After all, Calista was only twenty years old, and there was little to support her confidence.


    Many wondered if this was a high-stakes gamble or a sure win? All they could do was wait and see.


    Upon seeing the flurry of news reports, many foreign experts scoffed. With the assistance of the President of Chanaea, the fact that Calista had developed a serum was deliberately concealed. As a result, most people believed that Calista had made a rash promise only after causing such a major crisis.


    In an interview, a renowned expert jokingly remarked, "If a twenty-year-old girl manages to conquer the K virus, then we all might as well pack up and go home."


    Those more informed knew that Calista had once developed a serum capable of extending the lifespan of patients suffering from the K virus. However, this shouldn''t have been the reason for her overconfidence. Someone who acted recklessly after gaining a little sess was bound to fail.


    More influential individuals knew that Calista had introduced a new type of antibody. With its release, over a hundred lives were saved. They consequently held great admiration for her.


    While they were impressed, they were also anxious about the three-day deadline. Even with such achievements, solving such a huge problem in just three days seemed a bit too much.


    However, nations that had been tormented by the K virus were hoping that all of this was true. If they couldpletely rid themselves of this virus, then life would improve greatly for many countries.


    Therefore, a significant number of people in different countries were praying. They even petitioned, prayed, and sent wishes online, hoping that God had seen their suffering and sent an angel to rescue them.


    They didn''t concern themselves with what had prompted Calista to utter such words, but they sincerely hoped for Calista''s sess, and made a point to remember the name of this individual from Chanaea.


    Carrying everyone''s hopes, Calista returned and immediately locked herself up in theboratory.


    The antiserum was right in front of her. The one that Kallum had previously been administered was unstable, with a failure rate that could be said to be as high as fifty percent. It was only due to Kallum''s consistent streak of good luck that no issues had arisen.


    The modified serum demonstrated


    enhanced stability, yet its side effects were significantly more severe. Upon injection, it would obliterate all diseased cells within the body in one fell swoop. Amidst the viral counterattack and the potency of the drug shing, the data suggested that this drug could potentially cause unbearable pain, leading to death, even without anyone having tried it.


    Therefore, Calista wondered how she was to go about modifying the physical


    defects of the antidote.

 Chapter 427 The Challenge

    Holding it in her hands, Calista decided to inject herself first.


    "No, you can''t risk it at a time like this, Ms. Calista!" Shaun was the first to stop her.


    Calista, however, responded, "How can I conquer the virus if I''m not certain of the antidote''s medicinal properties? Don''t worry, when ites to enduring pain, I can handle it."


    All the other experts wanted to stop her but were hesitant to speak. Essentially, they wanted someone else to serve as the test subject. However, Calista was right, conducting the experiment on herself held more authority.


    Amidst the anxious yet hopeful gazes of the crowd, Shaun gradually injected the serum into Calista.


    At that moment, Calista was tied to the bed, her mouth gagged tightly for fear she might bite her tongue in an attempt to end her own life.


    When Shaun administered the injection, she could distinctly feel something gradually entering her body.


    In her past life, she had always been waiting for this moment. Back then, she thought that no matter the cost, as long as she could survive and recover, walking out of the research institute, she would cherish every single day of her future life.


    As the medication gradually took effect, Calista''s hand, where the injection had been administered, suddenly twitched.


    At first, veins of a bluish-purple hue slowly surfaced. Gradually, dark red veins also began to appear, their menacing presence reminiscent of aplex and mysterious pattern. They intertwined and seemed to climb upward along her arm...


    The process of "climbing" was clearly visible, with Calista''s upper body suddenly jolting. In that moment, a bright white light unexpectedly illuminated before her eyes. It was as if a slideshow was ying, images continuously shing before her. The world alternated between darkness and light; sometimes upside down, sometimes right-side up.


    It seemed as though someone was urgently whispering in her ear, "Oxygen! We need oxygen quickly!"


    "Ms. Stafford, inhale! Breathe deeply!"


    Then there was the sound of equipment colliding.


    "Insert a central venous catheter..."


    "Defibritor..."


    "Quick! Give her the medicine!"


    Gradually, her pale skin seemed as though it was cut through by red and blue veins. Calista''s eyes widened, unfocused as she stared at the light before her. The images in her mind shed faster and faster, her breathing bing increasingly rapid.


    The anxious murmurs around her gradually gave way to themanding sound of a piano. The music was intense, brimming with an evident restlessness. Just by listening, one could tell that the pianist was using their virtuosity as a means of venting¨Dventing a potent frustration and a deep-seated dissatisfaction. Yet, upon closer listening, an undercurrent of innocent unease was discernible.


    Calista was held by her grandmother, Tanya, who stood by the window. At that time, Kallum was seven years old and Calista was only two. Cradled in Tanya''s arms, she was a chubby bundle of joy.


    At that time, the Fairchild family had just undergone a major upheaval with the death of Kallum''s


    grandfather. Therefore, Tanya had brought Calista to visit. During the meal, Danya noticed that young Kallum seemed a bit distracted. After he finished his meal in silence, he sequestered himself in his room to practice the piano.


    "Callie, Kal is feeling down..."


    Dressed neatly and exuding an aura of schrly elegance, Tanya happened to pass by. Upon hearing Kallum ying the piano, she paused, expressing her admiration with a sigh.


    From a very young age, Calista started to be aware of her surroundings. Her intelligence was evident the moment she spoke. Upon hearing Tanya''s words, she might have been confused, but she asked clearly, ¡°Why is he upset?¡±


    Grandmother chuckled. "Because his grandfather has passed away."


    Calista blinked at her, her voice soft and childlike as she asked, "What does it mean to pass away?"


    She was acquainted with Kallum''s grandfather, a man who held a particr fondness for her. Every time they met, he would shower her withpliments.


    Upon seeing the innocent expression on Calista''s face, Tanya, for some unknown reason, felt a sense of mncholy rise in her heart.


    "Passing away means you won''t see them again. One day, your grandpa and I will also leave you, just like Kal''s grandpa did, never to return."


    Calista was slightly panicked, clutching onto Tanya''s clothes, "Why aren''t theying back?"


    "Because we can''t be with you for your whole life... my dear Callie! How I wish I could see you grow up. If that''s not possible, I hope there will be someone who will love you as much as we do..."


    Thinking about the chaotic situation in the Stafford family, Tanya felt a wave of sorrow washing over her the more she spoke. From the current state of things, it was clear


    to see what kind of life Calista would


    lead once they passed away.


    Calista noticed that Tanya was upset. With her chubby hand, she gently patted thetter''s eye,forting her, "Don''t be sad..."


    She had previously suffered from a toothache, which was quite distressing, so she remembered this term.


    Seeing her acting all grown-up, Tanya couldn''t help butugh again... "Sweetheart, I''m not the one who''s upset. It''s Kal who''s troubled. He''s your future husband, you know. Perhaps you couldfort him..."


    Tanya wasughing and chatting as she ced Calista on the windowsill, lightly tapping on the window.


    Kallum was abruptly interrupted, and he responded with a sharp tone, bristling with irritation! Despite his young age, his assertiveness was quite evident, making him someone not to be trifled with.


    No one had ever dared to disturb


    him in the midst of his tasks. Thus, when he opened the window, his well-defined face was filled with a hostile aura. However, this stern


    demeanor froze instantly at the e


    of a little girly figure. The child was wearing a soft pink dress, her short curly hair bouncing around, ticking her fingers while tilting her head to look at him. Her ck obsidian eyes were filled with an innocence yet to be exposed to the harshness of the world. It made the reprimand he originally intended to unleash to inexplicably diminish.


    "What are you doing here?"

 Chapter 428 Flashback Of Calista

    Young Kallum knew that Calista before him was to be his future wife, but he was young and had little knowledge about the concept of it. He only reckoned that he would have to take care of her in the future.


    Hmm... she really is quite adorable.


    Meanwhile, Calista looked at him cluelessly, grinning away. Just then, a gentle voice rang out from behind her.


    "Mr. Kallum, I''m getting on in years and find it hard to carry her. Could you help me look after her? I''ll head to the living room to fetch Edwin to take over. It won''t take long."


    Kallum thought he must have misheard Tanya. I''m only seven years old. How can I be expected to look after a little girl? Sure enough, this elderlydy is up in years and has gotten senile.


    However, given that she was a guest, he still agreed and nodded assertively despite his impatience. He replied concisely and to the point, "Sure."


    Tanya stifled augh. "Then, thank you, Mr. Kallum."


    As she spoke, she left without a worry in the world,pletely disregarding the fact that Kallum was only seven years old.


    Seeing that the little girl in front of him neither cried nor made a fuss but merely looked around curiously, Kallum felt much better, for he couldn''t stand little brats who wailed endlessly.


    He lifted her off the window sill, waiting for her grandfather to arrive. He was worried that she might fall before anyone else came, so he had no choice but to hold her in his arms. She''s such a soft and fragrant bundle, nice to carry...


    Kallum was ultimately still a child. After "ying" with Calista, the displeasure that lingered within him previously gradually faded away. She was so tender and warm that he didn''t want to put her down.


    Conversely, Calista merelyughed, thinking that he was ying with her. When she caught Kallum''s scent, she suddenly eximed in a juvenile voice, "Kallum, you smell so good."


    After saying that, she nestled into his arms like a puppy. She sniffed around while Kallum held her carefully, ensuring that she didn''t slip and fall.


    When Calista''s delicate little hand brushed against his face, young Kallum finally couldn''t help but blush. However, he said sternly, "All right, sit properly! And no touching allowed!"


    Calista paid him no mind. She continued touching him for a while, causing Kallum to grow increasingly anxious, sitting upright and alert.


    Only then did she say with a smile, "Grandma said you''re unhappy. Why are you unhappy?"


    Kallum harrumphed. "I''m not unhappy at all!" Nheless, his brows furrowed when Calista brought that up, his dejected visible.


    Calista''s eyes flickered. Then, she lowered her head, her chubby little hands rummaging beneath her adorable pink inner vest.


    Young Kallum was a tad curious. What is this clueless little one doing?


    Under his furtive nces, Calista eventually pulled out a piece of candy that was hidden well. It was a white color milk candy.


    Edwin didn''t allow her too much candy because she was too young, and overindulging would give her a toothache. However, Calista was clever from a young age, crafty enough to think of hiding it in the pocket of her inner vest.


    "Here, this is for you!"


    Kallum had initially thought it was something valuable, only to find that it was just a piece of candy. He turned his head away arrogantly, "I''m not a three-year-old kid, so I certainly don''t eat candy!"


    Calista cocked her head, seemingly unable toprehend that there were


    actually people in the world who didn''t like candy.


    Seated on Kallum''sp, she strained to pry open his palm with both hands, giving the candy to him.


    "Eat this candy. You''ll feel happy after eating it!"


    She tilted her head back and shed him a devastatingly sweet and innocent smile. That had the mind of Kallum, who initially wanted to


    refuse, go nk for the first tim neg


    She looks utterly adorable when she smiles, and her cheeks are chubby. Can I pinch them?


    Under her hopeful gaze, Kallum ate the candy with disdain written all over his face. It still bore her warmth and her milky fragrance. Besides it felt as though it held some magical power. After eating it, he strangely felt a sense of joy. So, it truly works?


    Seeing that he had eaten it and his face filled with surprise, Calista grinned like a


    cat that got the cream.


    Grandpa said that all interactions in the world stem from exchange. I''ve given Kallum a candy, and he epted it. That meant he''s mine now!


    Such a lengthy scene was merely a fleeting image in her mind, but the details were vividly etched in the blink of an eye. Calista had a


    remarkable memory and could recall events from when she was just a year old. However, she never indulged in reminiscing, seeing it as pointless.


    But this time, she remembered everything-the small hand she reached out, the pink and white candy wrapper, and even Kallum''s eyes that lit up slightly. All those details were etched in her memory, more distinct than any bystander could recall.


    She went into aa for a full day and night, leaving only thirty-nine hours in the already tight schedule.


    "What should we do? The severe pain caused Ms. Calista to go into shock, and she hasn''t been able to regain consciousness... The virus within her has indeed been eliminated. But if she doesn''t wake up, the three-day deadline will soon be upon us."


    Kallum massaged his temples wearily.


    After temporarily taking care of the matters out there, he hurried back, only to find Calista in aa. He kept watch over her for ten hours, but there was no sign of her regaining consciousness.


    "Continue with the experiment and find a solution to the problem! We are all individuals of real talent, so we can''t let a young girl shoulder all the pressure!"


    After saying that seriously, Bowen left Shaun to take care of Calista while he proceeded to lead the others away to continue with the research.


    Kallum turned to Shaun.

 Chapter 429 A Bittersweet Sensation

    "Is there a way to wake her up?" Kallum asked. He couldn''t fathom how much pain she must have experienced that she went into shock and nearly died. All he knew was that he couldn''t bear to see her unconscious any longer. It gave him a constant fear that she might die at any moment, the dread as infinite as the depths of an abyss.


    Shaun shook his head. "We''ve done all we could. Now, it''s all up to her."


    The thing Kallum could least ept was such a vague and nonmittal answer. Is there really no other way, and I can only wait? No!


    However, he wasn''t nning on giving up so easily. After Shaun had left, he began racking his brain to wake her up through their shared memories.


    Initially, he assumed there weren''t many shared moments between them. But upon deeper reflection, he realized that their rtionship actually brimmed with memories.


    Holding Calista''s hand, he called out her name.


    "Callie..."


    He paused before continuing, "You''ve been sleeping for quite a while now. Hurry up and wake up. Are you hungry? I prepared a lot of your favorite foods... If you don''t feel like eating, how about I ask the chef to cook you pumpkin kefir oatmeal? Remember? It''s the medicated meal you taught the chef when you were young. You came to visit me when you were ten because I was sick. Remember?"


    When Calista saw Kallum''s pale face, her heart broke.


    Because Kallum misunderstood that it was Mirabelle who saved him from drowningst year, while Calista merely stood by and left him in the lurch, he became distant toward her.


    For some reason, she remained as clingy as ever despite his attitude. Upon learning about his illness, she rushed over first thing in the morning.


    "Mrs. Fairchild, Kal seems to be having a tough time."


    "Yes. He just got over his fever, and his appetite is terrible. He throws up everything he eats. I wonder if he''ll feel better when he wakes upter," Wanda said.


    After a moment of thought, Calista stroked her chin and asked, "Mrs. Fairchild, does Mr. Chef know how to make pumpkin kefir oatmeal? When I was sick in the past, Grandma used to make it for me."


    Upon hearing that, Wanda replied, "I don''t think so. It must be a medicated meal, right? I''ll call and ask your grandma for the recipe right away. You''re amazing, Callie. Once Kallum wakes up, I''ll have him thank you!"


    Calista quickly said, "There''s no need to involve Grandma. She hasn''t been welltely. I know how to make it. Just have Mr. Chef assist me. I''ll teach him!"


    Wanda believed that, as Calista had been intelligent since young, possessing an eidetic memory. With her there, the chef would undoubtedly be able to create the dish.


    Having received Wanda''s approval, Calista quickly made her way to the kitchen.


    She remembered every detail of the preparation of ingredients and the cooking process, not missing a single step. The chef followed her instructions with a smile and even jestingly said, "If you know any other recipes for medicated meals, Ms. Calista, please teach me a few more!"


    Naturally, Calista didn''t know much. Besides, her entire focus then was on the oatmeal she was making. She tasted it several times while cooking, only daring to add a hint of seasoning each time.


    Seeing how devoted she was, the chef had nothing left to do and joked smilingly, "Mr. Kallum is truly fortunate to be marrying you, Ms. Calista!"


    Calista shed him a smile in return. Then, once the oatmeal was ready, she quickly scooped a bowl and hurriedly delivered it to Kallum.


    Lately, Kal isn''t fond of me. Perhaps I inadvertently did something wrong... But considering my earnestness, he''ll probably forgive me, right?


    Holding the bowl of oatmeal, Calista allowed her thoughts to wander.


    Kallum had already woken up. At the sight of Calista, a sh of displeasure flickered across his eyes. She''s downright thick-skinned, having the audacity to keep visiting his house even after leaving me in the lurch!


    "The oatmeal is ready!"


    "Kallum, look how good Callie is to you. She prepared this especially for you. It smells so nice!" Wanda said with a hint of surprise.


    Kallum, however, frowned. "There are pecans in there? Don''t you know I detest pecans most? Don''t bring it over!"


    His countenance was exquisitely but unapproachable. Despite being pale, his tone was harsh.


    Calista immediately felt aggrieved. She came over early in the morning and bustled around for four to five hours, making oatmeal for the first time, yet he didn''t like it.


    She attempted to exin, saying, "I know you''re not a fan of pecans, but they''re essential in this dish.


    Moreover, I prepared them in a way you won''t taste them. Give it a try. I promise you won''t detect any hint of pecans-"


    "I said to take it away!" His violet eyes were reminiscent of two zing gemstones, and his tone was stern. "Also, quit looking like I''m bullying you. I''ve told you I absolutely detest pecans!"


    Kallum harrumphed, then added, "Only a fool would be swayed by such petty favors!"


    From a distance, Calista heard everything, her heart filled with sorrow. Why did Kal suddenly start hating me so much?


    Kallum''s grip on Calista''s hand tightened, his eyes brimming with anguish and regret.


    "I''m truly sorry for the harsh words I


    said to you back then... In truth, I''d always been unkind to you. Yet, you''d shown me great tolerance.''ve hurt you many times, intentionally or otherwise. Now, every time I think about it, I wish nothing more than to punch myself..."


    Back then, I misunderstood her and was always terrible toward her. Yet, she refused to give up, insisting on staying by my side. Perhaps that''s love...


    A bittersweet sensation filled him,


    his fingers gently tracing her palm. "Truth be told, I ate that bowl of oatmeal. Although it was my mom who forced me to eat it, in reality, it was really fragrant. The moment I smelled it, I wanted to devour it. I was just being stubborn. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have been able to force me."

 Chapter 430 The Taste Of Love

    "Could you forgive me? I was once downright impulsive and detestable. My mom was right¡ªyou had long since given me the best of everything. Compared to you, my feelings for you seem childish andughable. No wonder you never agreed to be with me previously. It was because I wasn''t good enough, not at all," Kallum rambled.


    He brought Calista''s hand to his lips, his voice barely a whisper. "But I will try my best to learn... In the future, I''ll never let you down again... If you''re still willing to trust me, wake up... Without you, even my courage has vanished. I''m scared."


    He leaned in, trembling as he nted a kiss on her lips.


    Her lips were beyond cold yet soft. An icy fragrance enveloped him. At that moment, his heart skipped a beat. Even his breath caught.


    Once their lips parted, he fixed his violet eyes on her unblinkingly. They were filled with hope and could seemingly glow. s, Calista remained motionless. At that instant, the light in his eyes dimmed bit by bit.


    If she doesn''t wake up, I''ll have no choice but to secretly send her away for her safety. As for what would happen after she left or the challenges the Fairchild family would face, I can''t afford to worry about all that anymore...


    He gradually straightened up, his gaze slowly hardening in determination.


    "If you''re very tired, just sleep a little longer. I''m here, and I won''t let anything happen to you."


    "What did that bowl of oatmeal taste like?"


    Calista''s weak voice suddenly drifted into Kallum''s ears, leaving him momentarily stunned.


    She slowly opened her eyes, which seemed to be sprinkled with stars, and asked again, "Did you really find it delicious?"


    At that moment, Kallum''s eyes suddenly went red-rimmed. Almost without thinking, he blurted out a foolish question.


    "Why are you awake?"


    Calista let out a sigh. "Because I can''t just leave you alone..." That isn''t my style.


    Kallum''s voice abruptly choked off. His tough armor seemingly shattered into pieces before her. All he wanted was to hold her in his arms, never to let go again. "You still haven''t answered me. Was that bowl of oatmeal really delicious?"


    What did it taste like, the concoction meticulously crafted in my dream as if performing a scientific experiment, each ingredient added with precision? Kallum''s hands clenched into fists and rxed before uncontrobly clenching once more. Despite it all, he wore a smile on his face as if he was entirely rxed.


    "It was delicious. I was quite surprised at the time, for I didn''t expect your culinary skills to be so good... There was a taste I''ve never tasted in any other food."


    "Pecans?"


    "Perhaps it was the thoughtfulness of infusing the nutrients of pecans into the oatmeal without having me discern their vor."


    Looking at him, Calista burst outughing. "The taste of love?"


    Kallum couldn''t help butugh with her. In high spirits, he bent down once more and nted a kiss on her lips. As their eyes met at close quarters, his were filled with deep affection and love, seemingly glowing.


    "It''s the taste of you. I love you. Only you can satiate my hunger."


    Calista looked at him with a hint of provocation in her eyes. "So, do you have courage now?"


    "With you by my side, there is nothing to fear."


    Kallum pinched her chin and dered triumphantly, "I''m now filled with strength!"


    Calista seized his hand and yanked hard. Kallum was pulled onto the bed.


    With a swift turn, she pinned him down, saying confidently, "I already have an idea to conquer the side effects. I heard you''ve been watching over me for over ten hours. Sleep now. It''s my turn to take the lead next!"


    Kallum looked at her with a smile and pretended to whine, ¡°I want to sleep too, but more than ten hours have passed, and there''s just so much work waiting for me..." As he spoke, he reached out and gently tucked Calista''s hair behind her ear.


    He continued, "Leave everything out there to me. Just focus on your experiment here. We still have over thirty hours. Once everything is over, we''ll rest together."


    At his seriousness, Calista stared at him for a long time. In the end, she smiled faintly.


    "Okay."


    After she had said that, she got up and climbed out of bed.


    Having survived a near-death ordeal, she felt as though she had undergone aplete transformation, brimming with vitality.


    Her antiserum was sessful, and what appeared to be side effects were not adverse reactions but were measures taken by the antiserum to rapidly revive a body ravaged by the virus. While it looked terrifying, it wouldn''t destroy the body. However, the process was more than many could bear, with pain so intense it could cause asphyxiation or even death. So, it was somewhat tricky.


    However, Kallum sparked an inspiration in her. To alleviate pain, she didn''t necessarily have to modify the antiserum itself. She could develop an auxiliary medicine to be injected alongside the antiserum. Her eyes fell on the painkiller she previously designed for Kallum. But if it were to be used for that purpose, it needed to be improved. With only a little over thirty hours left, time was really not on her side.


    When Shaun heard her idea, his eyes lit up. Previously, they didn''t know what would happen when the antiserum was injected into the human body. They had assumed it would be painful, considering it a side effect and drawback of the antiserum, thus trying to modify it instead of Calista''s suggestion of using external assistance.


    Once Calista said that, everyone was suddenly enlightened. They then threw themselves into their work, working overtime and pushing themselves to the limit. Many hadn''t slept in a long time but were surprisingly energetic.


    Over thirty hourster, there would be a hard battle. As an integral part, everyone felt a sense of duty and strength.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 431 A Sense Of Crisis

    "Whether we can make a name for ourselves andmand the attention of the whole world, our sess or failure hinges on this moment. Do you all have confidence?" Calista asked loudly.


    "Yes!"


    Everyone gave her the most resolute affirmation.


    Meanwhile, Kallum rapidly issued several orders. Despite not having slept in a long time, he didn''t show the slightest hint of fatigue. He still appeared energetic. By sitting there and issuingmands alone, he gave others an unparalleled sense of security.


    "Right now, Callie is at a crucial moment. We all need to serve her needs. I want the incident this time to serve as a stepping stone for Callie to leap to the pinnacle of sess!"


    Before him was a group of about ten people on one knee.


    "Yes, Mr. Kallum! We are willing to do anything without hesitation for Ms. Calista!"


    "Great. Get to it!"


    Time ticked past. The pressure on the Fairchild family from the outside world grew heavier with each passing moment. The Fairchild family''s shares kept plummeting, and those with vested interests eagerly hoped for time to pass faster, itching to witness the moment of Kallum''s failure.


    However, Kallum''s fall remained to be seen.


    It remained uncertain whether they would witness the fall of the top prestigious first family from their pedestal at his hands or a miracle as Kallum led the Fairchild family to new heights once more.


    Everything hung in the bnce, and their only option was to wait for the final oue. There were three more hours. At six in the morning, it would be a full three days.


    That was a time dered by the President himself. He set it to coincide with the break of dawn, a moment that bore witness to miracles.


    The entire city of Horington was shrouded in a sense of crisis.


    Many people spent the night sleepless, anxiously waiting for the oue.


    However, at just that moment, a shocking piece of news broke out, shattering thest three hours of tranquility-some of the patients injected with the antibody fell into aa, and others died.


    The news spread like wildfire, triggering a massive stir. The president immediately issued an order to suppress the news, but it still leaked out. When the news reached the ears of the patients'' families, it struck them like a bolt out of the blue.


    They gave Calista and the Fairchild family a three-day grace period primarily because of the sess of the antibody, which showcased Calista''s capabilities and the hope she brought. If that hope turned out to be false and the so-called


    Ove


    recovery was nothing more than a fleeting illusion and a scam, they would have no reason to tolerate Calista alive and well. She would then have to pay with her life.


    News of Calista''s deception spread on the inte. Some confidently imed that the antibody provided by Calista only temporarily suppressed the virus but did not cure the patients. As a result, some individuals died during the observation period, and the rest were also likely living on borrowed time.


    Some even took to the streets at night, fanning the mes and manipting public opinion.


    Someone said, "It''s really horrifying. Had it not been for the prudent approach of the quarantine area staff, who decided to keep those who ''recovered'' after being injected with the antibody under observation for a few more days, there would have definitely been a new outbreak of infections once they were released!" Another person dered, "These capitalists are truly despicable. In order to buy themselves more time, they lied to us about developing a new antibody. As I said, the previous antibody had only a one percent survival rate. How could her survival rate be so high? It turns out that they were duping us all along!"


    Yet another spected, "People have already died, and those infected likely wouldn''tst much longer. Such a despicable woman should be sentenced to death! The President even gave her a three-day grace period. She''s probably already fled to some foreignnd by now!"


    Many people suspected that Calista


    had gone into hiding. After all, she had been out of touch for three days. The patients'' families were worried about that, so they braved the night together and went to Fairchild Manor, demanding that the Fairchild family hand her over immediately. They renounced their trust and called them a bunch of liars.


    Amidst the crowd''s outrage, even Calista heard themotion in the undergroundboratory.


    "Why is it so noisy outside when it''s now past three in the morning?"


    Shaun was aware of the situation, but he didn''t dare tell her. Hence, he fibbed, "It''s nothing. Just focus on the work at hand. How is it going now?"


    Calista nced at the time. "We still have over two hours. We''ll make it."


    Shaun was simply at his wits'' end, for they no longer had two hours left. A group of people incited by individuals with ulterior motives had gathered outside the door like raging bulls. If they didn''t speed up, it was uncertain what kind of things they might do.


    Seeing that something was off about him, Calista said, "Just say it. What exactly happened? I can handle it."


    At her stony demeanor, Shaun believed that she wasn''t lying. Coupled with the escting noise from outside, it would be impossible to keep things from her, so he came clean.


    "Some in the quarantine area who


    were injected with the antibody have fallen into aa, and one person has even died Consequently, there''s talk that there''s something wrong with our antibody. Many im that


    those who received the antithet


    injections only had K virus


    temporarily suppressed but would die following the viral counterattack. There are rumors that you have already fled, and the three-day agreement was merely a ploy to facilitate your escape. So, the patients'' families went crazy and gathered at the door. Mr. Kallum... has just rushed back from the office. He has gone to handle the situation now."


    After he finished speaking, he waited for Calista''s reaction. Unexpectedly, her movements remained steady as though she hadn''t heard anything. Despite the gravity of the situation, she didn''t even raise an eyebrow.

 Chapter 432 More Than Meets The Eye

    "What did Mr. President say?" Calista hit the nail on the head with her question.


    Shaun replied, "Mr. President trusts us. He expressed deep remorse about this incident. Even though he suppressed the news immediately, the word still managed to get out. I suspect it''s the work of people from the other major families or possibly even a foreign conspiracy."


    Calista gave a slight nod. "Who was it that died? Did Mr. President mention how that person passed away?"


    Shaun responded, "The cause of death was asphyxiation, but there are just too many factors that could lead to such a demise."


    Calista lowered her head, choosing to remain silent.


    While Shaun was lending a hand, he seemed a bit distracted. Seeing that Calista was still working methodically, neither speeding up nor slowing down, he finally couldn''t help but speak up. "Ms. Calista, aren''t you worried? There are many people outside pressuring Mr. Kallum to hand you over. Some are even threatening to burn you alive in public!"


    Unable to hold back, Calista asked, "Like they did when they burned witches at the stake?"


    "Ms. Calista!" Shaun''s tone intensified. "Why aren''t you the least bit worried?"


    "Is there any use in worrying?" Calista asked as she gently poured one vial of medicine into another of a different color, waiting for its reaction to change. Didn''t you mention that Kallum has already returned to take care of things?"


    "You can''t just not worry at all. We''re talking about a matter of life and death here..."


    When Calista saw the medicine gradually fuse together, a smile finally graced her face. "He said it himself. With him around, he told me not to worry. So, what''s there for me to worry about?"


    Suddenly, Shaun fell silent. Based on his understanding of Calista, he was well aware that this was the first time she had trusted someone so wholeheartedly. Mr. Kallum, have you finally seen the light at the end of the tunnel? Let''s hope we can get through this crisis without a hitch.


    With that thought, Shaun quicklyposed himself and hastened his actions.


    After rushing back at breakneck speed, Kallum found the Fairchild Manor besieged by thousands of people.


    Most of them were visibly outraged. Especially after the appearance of Kallum, they began to shout uncontrobly.


    "Liar! Hand over Calista now! We won''t fall for your lies anymore! Hand her over!"


    "If you don''t hand her over within ten minutes, we''ll set this ce on fire!"


    In the past, their innate reverence for the privileged asmoners would have prevented them from suggesting burning that ce now. But now, their emotions were running high. The anger from being deceived, coupled with the pain their loved ones were enduring, made them bold enough to consider such an action.


    Upon seeing the situation, Kallum first forcefully subdued them, then gradually made his way toward the crowd.


    Surrounded and pointed at by a group of bodyguards d in ck, the crowd was undoubtedly not going to take it lying down.


    "Charge! They definitely won''t dare to shoot!"


    Someone attempted to stir up the crowd, but no sooner had the words left his mouth than a bullet whizzed past his feet. His excited expression froze on his face, transforming into aical one within a second Seeing that the Fairchild family subordinates were indeed bold enough to fire a gun, the crowd hesitated to act for a moment.


    Someone shouted angrily, "If you''re so capable, lock us all up. Otherwise, I''ll just end my life right here and let the whole nation witness the tyranny of the Fairchild family!"


    "They actually have guns! How are ordinary folks supposed to live? Do they think they''re so impressive just because they''re rich and powerful?"


    "Hand over Calista, or I''ll end my life right here! My son is gone. I have no desire to live anymore."


    More and more among the crowd expressed simr sentiments. With a stoic expression, Kallum stood rooted to his spot, unfazed.


    Seeing that everyone was intimated, he then turned to Quintus and said, "Bring over the screen and the projector."


    Subsequently, he shared thetest news he had received with themoners gathered before him.


    "Who is a rtive of Rhonda Chapman?" Kallum''s sudden question prompted those who were pointed with the muzzles of the guns to be slightly discontented.


    "What are you nning to do now? Just because you''re rich and powerful, do you think you can toy with people''s lives?"


    With patience, Kallum responded, "Didn''t you alle here because someone had passed away? Who is Rhonda Chapman''s family member?"


    The crowd wondered. So, the one who died was a person named Rhonda Chapman?


    Everyone exchanged nces. When Kallum announced the names of the deceased, there was an undeniable collective sense of relief. The crowd was grateful the deceased wasn''t someone from their own family.


    The crowd fell silent, all searching for Rhonda''s family member. After all, it was a matter of life and death for their loved one. They couldn''t possibly not show up.


    However, it was only after a long


    while that a shrill female voice finally


    broke the silence. "What are you


    trying to do? Isn''t it enough that


    you''ve already caused Rhonda''s


    as


    death? What more do you want from


    us? I''m telling you, even if we die, we


    won''t make things easy for you!"


    Her tone was fitting for a victim''s family member, but the fact that she only showed


    herself after such a long time seemed a bit odd.


    Watching the couple emerge, Kallum asked, "Are you Fielding Chapman and Maisie L?"


    Upon realizing that Kallum knew their names, the two individuals couldn''t help but disy a hint of panic on their faces.


    Maisie, a slender woman with a darkplexion, shrieked, "So what? What are you trying to do?"


    A hint of mockery surfaced on Kallum''s face. ¡°I''m just amazed. You guys are quite capable and very daring. It seems there''s nothing you wouldn''t dare to do."


    The scene gradually quieted down, leaving everyone puzzled by Kallum''s intentions. It was one thing for Kallum not to treat Rhonda''s parents with gentleness following her death, but his confrontational tone was entirely unexpected. The crowd wondered if there could be more to this situation than meets the eye.

 Chapter 433 Uncovering The Truth

    The couple''s guilt intensified. Nevertheless, Fielding spoke up with a stern voice. "I have no idea what you''re talking about. Hand over Calista! My daughter died because of her. She should pay with her life!"


    "A life for a life? Do you think you''re worthy?"


    After Kallum spoke, the crowd once again became restless. What does he mean by that? Is Calista''s life more valuable than ours?


    Seeing them on the verge of arguing again, Kallum made a silencing gesture. Quintus had already set up the projector. Then, Kallum sent the files from his phone and said solemnly, "See for yourselves what the truth is."


    With that, he hit the y button.


    From the moment he learned someone had died an hour ago, Kallum knew it was a conspiracy. Even though he wasn''t in the quarantine area at the time, nothing within it could escape his watchful eye.


    The three-day agreement was a pact between him and the President. Even if other prestigious families wished to intervene, they would have to think twice.


    At that point, even without their intervention, the Fairchild family might sabotage their own efforts. Hence, why should they bother making moves and risk exposing themselves?


    Once exposed, they would offend both the President and Kallum. Unless they were absolutely certain of sess or no longer wished to operate within Chanaea, there was no need for them to take such a risk.


    Therefore, from the very beginning, Kallum set his sights on foreignnds.


    However, it wasn''t the optimal time to hunt down the culprit yet. For those people to make their move, they needed assistance from someone within the quarantine zone. Thus, he spent an hour meticulously studying the family structure of each infected individual, as well as the identities of the quarantine zone staff members. The girl who died was ultimately confirmed to have ended her own life. She took advantage of a shift change among the nurses to remove her own oxygen mask. Moreover, she secretly destroyed the oxygen system in the biosafety level four ward. This resulted in the tragic event where the other four patients in the same room suffered from oxygen deprivation and fell into aa while she herself died from asphyxiation.


    Moreover, the surveince footage during that period had been remotely tampered with. So, when that matter was discovered, it was immediately determined to be suspected murder.


    Luckily, they were discovered in time. The remaining four people hadn''t died. They were just unconscious. Otherwise, the situation would have been far worse.


    The President had firmly stood by their side because he understood the situation, knowing that the antibodies weren''t the issue. As for the mole, once discovered, they would be charged with treason and be sentenced to death.


    Kallum, on the other hand, was deep in thought. What could possibly drive a girl of just sixteen to end her own life? Was it her inability to cope, or was she manipted into it by others?


    Following that lead, he uncovered something intriguing. Fielding and Maisie''s rtive, specifically Fielding''s younger sister, happened to be a cleaner in the quarantine area''s restroom.


    Everyone who had woken up was under observation. However, they were not criminals, after all. Therefore, they were still allowed to move around a bit in the quarantine area. It seemed quite normal when Rhonda bumped into her aunt in the restroom.


    However, Kallum wondered if that was truly such a normal thing to happen.


    A flicker of the projector brought a scene to life. The petite Rhonda emerged from the restroom, identally bumping into a cleaning


    distance, it was impossible to


    discern what was said, let alone read


    their lips.


    Everyone who saw the video was a bit puzzled, wondering what this video could possibly reveal.


    Kallum had been observing Fielding and Maisie all along. As he expected, their expressions turned unsightly and pale, a clear sign of their guilty consciences.


    "What are you implying? Is that the girl who passed away?" someone asked loudly.


    Kallum, with a nonchnt demeanor, recounted the events once more.


    "This girl is thete Rhonda. The biosafety level four ward was


    vel


    removed her oxygen mask, she sabotaged the oxygen supply system. This resulted in the unconsciousness of the other patients in the same ward. She herself died of asphyxiation. This


    incident was, in fact, a case of her


    ending her own life."


    As soon as Kallum finished speaking, the scene erupted into chaos. Fielding and


    Maisie, who had lost their daughter, instantly flew into a rage.


    "Nonsense! How could my daughter possibly end her own life? You''re clearly trying to absolve Calista! You''re just trying to evade responsibility!" Fielding snapped.


    Upon hearing his words, some people began to express their doubts. However, the majority believed him. Setting aside any judgment of Kallum''s character, his demonstrated demeanor and grace alone did not seem to be that of a liar.


    Moreover, the issue didn''t lie with the antibodies, which naturally brought them joy. This implied their loved ones wouldn''t have to die. They were desperate for Kallum''s words to be true.


    "Why did this child end her own life? Could you exin?" asked a woman who seemed somewhat rational.


    ncing at the time, Kallum began to speak slowly. "In the hour and a half since her death, I''ve delved into her entire life history. This girl was unloved by her family from a young age, often subjected to domestic violence. After middle school, she was forced to drop out and work to support her younger brother. She was submissive andpliant, always obedient to her parents. All in all, she never crossed anyone."


    His veiled words caused difort among the crowd, and their faces darkened. They looked at Fielding and Maisie with disdain. At this age and day, they''re still adhering to a patriarchal mindset?


    Fielding and Maisie both recoiled a bit, with Maisie hiding behind Fielding. She shrieked, "How I treat my own child is my business. What does this have to do with you guys causing her death?"

 Chapter 434 The Confession By Francine

    Kallum scoffed. "I''ll say it again. She ended her own life. Her death has nothing to do with Callie. I suspect that someone pressured her to death. Following this lead, I found out that you all had been nning to marry her off to a man twenty years her senior in exchange for betrothal gifts. To prevent you from doing so, she worked three jobs a day. Your entire family was dependent on her."


    After Kallum finished his sentence, the surrounding people''s perception of Fielding and Maisie worsened, figuring a man like Fielding, who would ruthlessly exploit his own daughter, was probably there to cause a ruckus with them just for the money.


    "What''s wrong with that? My daughter is dutiful and willing to support us, so what''s the problem?" Fielding thought. My ount doesn''t hold much money, and all traces of my transactions have been erased. Without any evidence, the Fairchild family has nothing on me, so I have nothing to fear!


    At that thought, his courage surged again. He shouted, "After all this talk, you''re just trying to buy time for Calista, aren''t you? Has she already escaped? Your Fairchild family''s medicine killed someone. Shouldn''t you hand over the culprit?"


    Kallum nced at Fielding, who had a look of unabashed rascality etched on his face. Kallum felt a wave of annoyance surge within him. If it were not for an unforeseen twist of fate, he would never have associated with this sort of individual in his lifetime.


    Therefore, he outright ignored Fielding, pointing at the paused video as he spoke.


    "This individual is Fielding''s younger sister and Rhonda''s aunt. She worked as a cleaner in the quarantine area. On the day of the incident, she had seen Rhonda." He hit rey before continuing, "Moreover, as you can see in the video, it''s clear her aunt deliberately bumped into her. After exchanging a few words with Rhonda, Rhonda took off. You can see that when Rhonda left, she was stumbling, clearly having heard something she didn''t want to ept. Suppose her aunt was influenced by certain individuals and intentionally told Rhonda that she had to marry that man once she returned home. Or perhaps she was directly told to end her life, forced to make sacrifices for her family, and so on. Under such despair, it wouldn''t be surprising if the girl resorted to end her own life."


    "This is just your spection! You have no proof!" After listening for a while and realizing that Kallum indeed had no evidence, Fielding became arrogant again.


    At that moment, Kallum answered a phone call, a slight smile ying on his lips. "Evidence? Here''s the proof you''ve been asking for."


    He ryed the video sent by someone else onto the big screen. Everyone then watched as a slightly overweight woman took a seat across the table. The person was none other than Rhonda''s aunt.


    Fielding was taken aback. He hastily tried to call his younger sister, but her phone was switched off.


    In merely two hours since the incident urred, Kallum managed to locate them, expose their cunning scheme, and apprehend Fielding''s sister, Francine Chapman. The speed of it all was astonishing. It was as if Kallum could foresee the future.


    "Why are you arresting me? I''m an innocent citizen!" Francine Chapman shouted, her gaze fixed on the direction of the camera. She felt a wave of unease, but she was certain that her actions had been discreet. No one could possibly know. However, the next words from the other party made herplexion drastically change.


    "That''s enough! Drop the act. Your brother, Fielding, has already confessed. This interrogation is merely a formality. If you show remorse and admit your guilt, there''s a chance your family could be spared. I suggest you think this over!"


    Derek''s chilling tone sent shivers down Francine''s spine. Has Fielding confessed already? That little b*tch has only been dead for a few hours! How could he have done so this soon? No, it can''t be. They must be deceiving me!


    Her expression continuously shifted, her body taut and trembling. Derek added, "You conspired with Fielding at this critical moment to drive Rhonda to her death, a crime as


    grave as treason! If you admit


    guilt with a good attitude, it would only concern you. On the other hand,


    if you don''t, your children and family will also bear the consequences!"


    As he spoke, Derek pressed a button. The door beside them swung open to reveal Francine''s precious son, bound and gagged, crying out in distress.


    "My son!" At that sight, Francine waspletely taken aback.


    "Are you even police officers? How could you treat my son like this? I''m going to sue you!"


    Upon hearing that, Julian chuckled lightly and said, "Did you really think you couldmit such a grave offense and still retain your human rights? We''re a special organization in the country specifically established to deal with criminals who''ve lost their human rights. If you don''t cooperate, don''t think we''ll hesitate to take your son. Even if ites to his death, you''ll only have yourself to me. You''re the one who dragged him into this."


    "You wouldn''t dare!"


    Upon hearing that, Derek promptly pulled out his gun, aiming it toward the direction of the boy and flicking the safety off.


    "You can''t do this!" Fielding yelled franticly at the screen, hoping his sister could hear him. "You''re abusing your power! Is there now and order left?!"


    However, before he could rush over to smash the video, someone stopped him.


    "Law and order?" In the dim order?"


    After Kallum finished speaking, the sound of Francine''s crying could be heard from the video.


    "I confess, I confess! I beg you, spare my son! All of this was that scoundrel Fielding''s doing! I''m innocent. I''m merely his messenger. I''m innocent!"


    Following her confession, Fielding slumped to the ground.


    At that moment, everyone gained rity. They had been fooled by Fielding and


    Maisie.


    "What did you say to Rhonda?" Derek asked Francine.

 Chapter 435 The Long Wait

    This time, Francine didn''t hold back and quickly said, "I told her that her family would marry her off to that man if she didn''t take her own life. That man had already beaten two of his wives to death. So, you see..."


    Tears streamed down Francine''s face as she continued, "I told her that living like this is worse than death itself. If she were to die, her family would inherit a fortune, and she would be free from this miserable life. If she doesn''t choose death, she''s bound to end up with that old man!"


    "Why did you ry a message for Fielding, then?"


    Upon hearing the mention of Fielding, Francine was so infuriated that she was practically seething with anger.


    "He''s the one who led me astray! He told me that the girl was an easy target! He promised me a million if I could just push her over the edge! It was a million for just a few words! I couldn''t resist the temptation! I''ve never seen so much money in my entire life..."


    As Francine continued rambling on, Fielding''s expression grew increasingly grim. Maisie''s face had long since lost all color. Even though Kallum had used illicit means to force out the truth, at this moment, no one was ming him. Everyone stepped back, clearing a circr space. Fielding and Maisie were sitting on the ground, unsure of what to do next.


    Having rified the facts, Kallum lost interest in dealing with them. The unfortunate girl was already dead, so what awaited them was merely the harshest condemnation from both thew and morality.


    With a casual wave of his hand, he ordered for the evidence to be delivered to the police station.


    The wrongdoers were severely punished, and the crowd graduallyid down their arms. Having made all the fuss only to realize that they had been used as pawns, they felt utterly frustrated.


    Someone stirred the pot again, saying, "We''re only half an hour away from six o''clock. The three-day agreement is almost upon us, but we still haven''t seen Calista. She hasn''t run off, has she?"


    Kallum nced at the person and said, "What''s the rush? We still have half an hour."


    His voice sounded indifferent, yet it inexplicably sent a chill down the spines of those who heard him.


    With just one sentence from him, no one else dared to speak again.


    The horizon was gradually starting to lighten, and the winter dawn was bitterly cold. During the previous emotional upheaval, the chill hadn''t registered. But now, the final half hour seemed to stretch on endlessly.


    "What a lively scene!"


    A group of people slowly approached. With a surge of energy, Kallum turned toward them and said in greeting, "Mr. President."


    The public was in an uproar. It''s the President! The President has actuallye in person!


    "Kallum, have you taken care of everything?"


    He had been quite worried before, especially when arge group of people approached with an aggressive demeanor. He feared that an irreparable conflict would called


    arise. However, when he we


    Kallum, thetter assured him it would be okay, that he could handle it. So, he decided to hold back and not act.


    Kallum nodded. "It''s just a minor issue and has been taken care of."


    The President looked at Kallum with approval in his eyes. Despite his young age, Kallum''s work ethic was trulymendable. If he were to run for a seat in the council, participate in the elections, then the future of Chanaea would be in good hands. However, it was clear that his ambitions were elsewhere.


    The President let out a good-natured chuckled as he said, "It''s fine as long as everything is handled well. Seeing as the time is almost upon us, I thought I''d join


    in the fun. Who knows, I might even witness a miracle."


    Kallum invited the President toe in and have a seat, but he declined and


    said, ¡°No worries. It won''t be long, so I can stand for a bit."


    And so, Kallum ordered all the lights in Fairchild Manor to be turned on. In an instant, the manor shone like a beacon in the night, casting a faint glow over the darkness and stretching Kallum''s silhouette long.


    He had done everything that needed to be done. Now, all that was left for him to do was to wait.


    At that time, a steady stream of people arrived, many of whom were foreigners.


    After saluting the President, a tan-skinned man said eloquently in Chanaean, "I heard that the results will be out soon. I''m here representing my homnd, a country that has been tormented by the K Virus. On the other side of the globe, everyone is eagerly awaiting the oue."


    For the first time, the President was not surrounded by the usual multitude of bodyguards. He was smiling pleasantly and personally told him, "Sure; let''s wait together."


    Taken aback by the President''s response, the tan-skinned man nodded in agreement. He held his phone, livestreaming for the folks back home. There were many others like him, with the same intent. They came one after another, each giving a respectful salute to the President before silently standing aside. Despite the fact that their


    livestreams were blowing up, they themselves remained incredibly calm.


    Furthermore, arge number of journalists had also arrived. In fact, they had been there for quite some time. However, the previous chaos caused by the crowd had frightened them, making them hesitant to approach and only daring to observe from a distance.


    Now they had arrived, Quintus sought approval from Kallum. Kallum gave a slight nod and said, "Let theme over."


    And so, the reporters entered, brimming with excitement.


    This time, however, their movements were gentle. Despite being in arge group, not a single person spoke. It was as if they were afraid of disturbing something. This was undoubtedly the first time these journalists had ever been so quiet.


    Gradually, the perimeter of Fairchild Manor was surrounded by over fifteen thousand people. Through them, countless others stayed up all night, eagerly awaiting the final oue.


    Would it be a sess, or a failure? Would there be a miracle, or would it all turn out to be a joke?


    With only ten minutes left, the crowd began to stir, with some feeling a sense of disappointment.


    If it has been sessful, why would it take this long? Well, it is the K Virus we''re talking about, after all. If it has failed, how would the Fairchild family handle the aftermath?

 Chapter 436 Calista Shows Up At Last

    They looked over at Kallum amidst their argument. Under the city lights at dusk, Kallum''s face showed no trace of hesitation. He stood there as still as a statue, yet his eyes shone with a brilliance that could illuminate the world.


    Watching him, an unexinable faith arose within everyone. It was as if he could never lose, as if he had never tasted defeat before, and this time would be no different.


    "There are only two minutes left. Do you still have faith?" the President suddenly said with a chuckle.


    Kallum looked at him, slowly revealing an extravagant smile.


    "My faith has never wavered. I trust her just as much as I trust myself. She has never let anyone down, and neither have I."


    As the final minute approached, the mor grew louder. The reporters clutched their microphones tighter, and the international onlookers gripped their phones just as firmly. Even the President''s expression turned solemn, as if he was anticipating something monumental.


    Finally, a faint sound was heard. Kallum turned his gaze toward it and called out, "Callie!"


    "This is quite the grand spectacle. Is it all for my arrival?"


    The distinctively cold voice of Calista resonated, making the night seem even colder, the wind more biting.


    The moment she stepped out, the whiteness in the sky grew increasingly intense. It was as if something had broken free from the mire and was radiating light.


    After such a long time, Calista finally managed to make out everyone''s faces in the darkness. Then, her gaze was involuntarily drawn to Kallum.


    He stood tall and dignified, exuding an air of nobility. He was a natural aristocrat, radiating an undeniable brilliance.


    Kallum shed her a toothy grin. The next moment, he walked over to her, took off his jacket, and draped it over her shoulders.


    "This is the coldest moment of the day. Why didn''t you put on more clothes beforeing out?"


    Calista felt his warmth and responded with a faint smile. "I was worried you''d get impatient while waiting."


    "What''s the oue, Ms. Stafford?"


    Someone interrupted the pair''s intense gaze with a sudden question. In an instant, the attention of over ten thousand people was drawn to her. Beyond the various devices, countless individuals were all awaiting her response.


    What is the oue? Is it a sess or a failure? Did this youngdy really manage to create a miracle? Did Kallum win his gamble this time?


    Everything would be encapsted in her words.


    Calista looked at everyone, revealing her pearly white teeth as she slowly broke into a smile.


    "Do you really need to guess the oue? It''s just the K Virus, which I''ve already taken care of. I assure you that everyone will be on the mend by tomorrow."


    The silencested for a second, then suddenly, cheers erupted. Everyone''s emotions surged, their voices seemingly ready to announce this oue to the world.


    Aside from the rtives of the patients, many more people were infected by this sense of victory.


    After all, the world''s toughest problems had been resolved by their nation''s people in just three days. There couldn''t possibly be any achievement more thrilling than this.


    At that moment, the cheers were so loud they nearly broke the sky.


    Once their excitement had


    somewhat subsided, Kallum said, "This unfortunate incident has caused a loss for everyone involved, and for that, I deeply apologize. Soon, I will send representatives topensate each and every victim affected by this incident. Despite the doubts raised by many in the aftermath, there have also been numerous supporters, standing by both me and my fianc¨¦e. Therefore, we have decided to disclose the form of our medicine, providing a chance for everyone around the world infected with the K Virus to regain their health!"


    This was the approach he and Calista had agreed upon long ago. Once these words were spoken, many couldn''t help but admire their magnanimity.


    After everything that had happened, they were nearly cornered by the external pressures. Yet, once they achieved their breakthrough, their first instinct was to share it with the world. Such magnanimity was indeed worthy of global admiration. Calista chuckled. "All right; words alone don''t prove anything. There are still many people waiting for our help. Later, we will hold another press conference to sort everything out and put an end to this."


    Only then did everyone remember that there were people waiting for them in the quarantine area. Almost in a huddle, they followed Calista to the quarantine area.


    Upon the President''s instruction, the entire treatment process was made public. Every infected individual was administered two doses of


    medication. After the injection, they began to fall into a deep slumber. When they woke up again after three t¨¦four hours, everything was a fresh new start.


    By the time Kallum and Calista returned home, it was already seven in the evening.


    Calista had been awake for over fifty hours, yet her spirits remained high due to her recent sess. Kallum, on the other hand, had been up for more than eighty


    hours.


    He used every ounce of willpower within him just to give the following orders urately. Once everyone had left, he simply copsed onto the table and fell asleep.


    When Calista entered carrying food, he was greeted by the sight of Kallum sprawled evenly across the table. His handsome face and rxed brows made him look as beautiful as an angel. Despite his long arms and legs, he looked endearingly adorable when sleeping.


    Seeing him sleep so soundly, Calista didn''t have the heart to disturb him. Instead,


    she quietly fetched a nket and draped it over him.


    ????


    Yet the moment she moved, Kallum woke up. His eyes were full of bloodshot veins, a stark contrast to his vibrant and charismatic demeanor during the day. Oddly enough, it made him somewhat endearing, especially with a few strands of hair sticking up on his head, making him look like a pretty boy straight out of aic book.


    "Huh... Did I fall asleep?"

 Chapter 437 Are You Ready To Be A Star

    Kallum''s voice was incredibly hoarse, and he had a dazed and harmless look on his face.


    It was rare of him to give off such a vibe. When he was alert, he was always full of vigor and vitality, radiating an intensity and warmth akin to that of a diamond.


    Calista nodded. "Do you want to sleep on the bed?


    Kallum stared at hisputer. "But there is still an unfinished document..."


    "You can deal with those tomorrow."


    "But this document is of utmost urgency. It simply can''t wait until tomorrow."


    Calista pulled out her trump card and bent over to whisper in his ear, "Don''t tell me you''ve forgotten? You said it yourself that you wanted a reward for this matter, remember?"


    Kallum''s previously muddled mind suddenly became alert.


    I mentioned before that I would want consummation once this matter was


    resolved. Could it be that...


    Calista nodded. "Yes, that''s right. I agree to it, so let''s go to bed!"


    Go to bed?


    In that moment, Kallum felt as if he had been injected with a shot of adrenaline, standing up with a renewed vigor.


    Ten minutester, Kallum found himself feeling nonplussed while being held in Calista''s embrace.


    "Is this what you call consummation?" Sleeping on the same bed, at most, could be considered sharing a bed.


    "Yup! Doesn''t hugging you count?"


    Kallum intended to argue his case with a reasoned argument, but he was held back by Calista.


    "Go to sleep, or else I''ll move to another room to sleep, and you won''t even get the chance to hold me!"


    Kallum pursed his lips, muttering softly, "What a miser."


    "What did you say?"


    "Ah, it''s nothing. Time for bed!" Kallum said as he pulled Calista into his arms.


    In less than three seconds, he had fallen asleep.


    He slept deeply, far more peacefully than when he had previously slept on the table.


    Calista studied his finely chiseled profile, her fingers carefully brushing against his long eyshes. His eyes fluttered slightly, yet he didn''t open them, only furrowing his brows slightly. The corners of his mouth seemed to lift a bit, giving off a hint of dissatisfaction.


    As if bewitched, Calista drew just a bit closer to him.


    Just what kind of person are you, really?


    From the moment she firstid eyes on him, she was smitten. She couldn''t help but regard him as the brightest light in the world, irresistibly drawn to him like a moth to a me.


    Confusion flickered in Calista''s beautiful eyes before she lowered her gaze and gently nted a kiss onto his thin lips.


    Kallum wasn''t aware of the kiss, but he involuntarily tightened his grip on her a little.


    When he woke up the next day, it was already the afternoon.


    Kallum had initially nned to reim what was rightfully his, but seeing Calista clutching her stomach, looking utterly pitiful with hunger, he found himself unable


    to do so. He had no choice but to first ensure she was well-fed.


    Watching Calista getting dressed, her unintentional disy of a graceful figure almost made Kallum helplessly throw himself at her.


    In certain aspects, he was so starved that it was as if his eyes were glowing green.


    Joel.ne


    Is there any other man out there as pitiful as I am? I''ve been nurturing my wife for twenty years, and yet only tasted the fruit of mybor once! Just once! If one were to spread this around, it could go down as the worst story in history!


    Calista turned around and saw him staring nkly as she changed her clothes. She couldn''t help but chuckle with a hint of mischief.


    "I know you are desperately longing for it, but could you not stare at me like that?


    It makes me feel like a I''m amb that''s about to get ughtered."


    So, during mealtime, the housekeeper asked Kallum what he wanted to eat. Kallum, through gritted teeth, dered, "Meat! Lots and lots of meat!"


    Calista merelyughed without uttering a word. At this moment, Quintus arrived.


    "Mr. Kallum, you''re finally awake! The President suggested that we should arrange a press conference as soon as possible. What do you think?"


    Kallum subconsciously nced at Calista and asked, "Are you ready, youngdy? You''re about to be famous!"


    Famous?


    Calista looked at him, her expression somewhat bewildered. Despite her long- standing desire to prove herself, she had never contemted the idea of bing famous.


    Upon seeing her lost in thought, Kallum felt a softness in his heart. He held back augh and asked, "What''s the matter? Not ready to be a star yet?"


    Being a star? Is it akin to Quincy''s previous life, basking in fame and wealth while elevating my own worth, then navigating through the circles of the elite, armed with nothing but lies and allure?


    Calista shook her head, "I''m not quite there yet, but let''s just take it one step at a time. When do you n on holding the press conference?"


    "I''ll take care of the arrangements."


    "Do I need to prepare for anything?"


    Kallum gave her a nce, brimming with pride as he said, "Callie, you don''t have


    to do anything to be perfect! When the timees, do whatever makes you


    Kallum hadn''t deceived her. On the


    day of the press conference, he


    didn''t prepare any extravagant attires for Calista. Instead, she appeared as she usually did, dressed in clean and simple clothes. Her every action and gesture exuded an air of effortless grace that was immenselyforting to those around her.


    The venue was packed with people as all the recovered patients had arrived. Apart from the death of a girl due to this incident, everyone else was fine. Their families had also receivedpensation, and public resentment gradually subsided. What took its ce was the noble aet of Kallum and Calista publicizing the form of the medicine. This act


    was the talk of the town, and


    everyone felt immensely proud.


    That day, thergest venue in Horington was heavily guarded. Not only was the President expected to arrive, but representatives from over forty countries were also due to attend, all there to ept this gesture of goodwill.

 Chapter 438 Reborn Once Again

    Every individual who arrived held a high position in their own country. However, in Calista''s presence, they all bowed in a show of respect.


    Under the dazzling lights, Calista stood in a position that attracted everyone''s attention, calmly receiving each person who came to visit her.


    "Kinddy, you must be an envoy sent by the divine, here to alleviate suffering. On behalf of the entire Lostaria, I extend to you the highest respect." A nobleman from Lostaria spoke, bending toward Calista.


    Calista, on the other hand, handed him a medicine form she had prepared in advance, smiling as she responded, "You''re wee. This is nothing significant."


    Her expression was indifferent, with only a hint of a smile ying at the corners of her mouth. This demeanor perfectly embodied the image of a lofty person who was indifferent to fame and fortune in others'' perceptions. The visitor took the form, expressed his gratitude once more, and then left.


    "I never imagined that the K virus would meet its end at the hands of a twenty- year-old girl. I thought this deadly virus would torment us into the next century. You truly are our savior! On behalf of Tospait, I thank you for your generosity." A cheerful elderly ck man approached, showering Calista with effusive praise.


    Under the countless shbulbs, Calista''s smile remained unchanged as she solemnly handed him the form. "Everyone has the right to life. I simply did what I could. I''m honored to have achieved what I have today."


    The elderly man smiled. "You''re being too modest. With a single act, you saved millions of lives. You''re the most distinguished contributor of this century. The world would be proud of you!"


    Listening to his praise, Calista felt her mood subtly stirred. They shook hands and posed for a photo, which the camera captured.


    Many came to express their gratitude to her. The K virus was a significant threat in every country where it existed. Calista''s ability to conquer the virus and her decision to openly share the form without any conditions were seen as incredibly benevolent, almost angelic. Hence, the visitors spared no effort in showering her withpliments.


    Calista also felt quite reflective. All this while, she never really took the time to contemte what she truly wanted to do.


    The reason she studied medicine was that she had been immersed in it since her childhood; she never had a choice.


    In her previous life, her unique medical skills and innate talent had shaped her tragic existence. Some sought to exploit her medical knowledge for longevity, and others used her abilities to gain fame. Even though she saved lives, she was far from happy.


    In this life, she no longer wished to be exploited. Therefore, she strived to attain a higher social standing, using her medical skills as her weapon. Saving people became a secondary task, yet she found great joy in it.


    It was as if she was not only altering her own fate with her sheer determination but also transforming the destinies of others. The sensation of breaking free from her shackles was simply indescribably wonderful.


    From the very beginning, she had made it clear to Kallum that once they had sessfully tackled the K virus, she didn''t intend to profit from it. Instead, she wanted to donate it for the benefit of the entire world.


    Hence, during her research process, she strived to use the most cost-effective ingredients for her form to avoid a situation where a cure was avable but people couldn''t afford it.


    Now, she had finally achieved sess.


    The President turned to Kallum, who was standing off to the side, and asked, "Aren''t you going to share in this honor with her?"


    In his opinion, Kallum deeply loved Calista and would naturally want to share with her every peak and trough of life. They''ve already weathered the storm together,


    so why is Kallum hiding away during their moment of glory?


    Kallum, arms folded, stood beside him. He watched the woman, unparalleled in her radiance under the morous lights. A vague smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he spoke in an inscrutable tone. "She deserved this honor a long time ago, but she had to wait far too long. Therefore, this moment belongs solely to her. I don''t want to intrude."


    "Are you just going to y the role of a low-profile knight in shining armor?" The President chuckled at Kallum teasingly.


    With an unfazed expression, Kallum nonchntly asked, "Am I not the best knight in shining armor?"


    At that moment, after Calista had finished meeting with an individual, she nced around. It was only when her gaze crossed over the crowd andnded on Kallum that it focused and stopped wandering before she continued to meet with the next person.


    At that moment, Kallum felt an overwhelming sense of satisfaction, a profound, immense satisfaction.


    Finally, when the President presented Calista with the Amalgamated Nations highest achievement award, the atmosphere in the assembly hall was electrifying. Everyone cheered with pride, all because Calista was a Chanaean.


    When the President handed her the trophy, Calista felt surreal.


    Looking at the faces filled with admiration before her, she thought. Are they really honoring me? Are these abundances of praise, encouragement, and affirmation all really meant for me? Was I not living in a quagmire and undergoing hardship? Somehow, I''ve arrived in paradise.


    As she was lost in thought, a warm hand gently squeezed her hand. From beside her came the voice of Kallum,ced with amusement. "Stop daydreaming. ept it already."


    Only then did Calista ept the trophy as if she had just awoken from a dream. Seeing Kallum standing by her side, she instantly regained her calm, as if she had finallye to terms with reality Indeed, I''ve been reborn. Through my entanglements with this man, I''ve journeyed from hell and gradually ascended to heaven. Everything before my eyes belonged to me now. No one can rob or oppress her anymore because this man has single-handedly elevated me to the highest position.


    Standing on the elevated stage, she held up her trophy to the cheers of the thousands below. At that moment, the apuse seemed as f it could shatter the roof. At the same time, the resentment churning within her dissipated, leaving her with an uncertain thought. Calista felt as though she had been reborn once again.

 Chapter 439 Just A Matter Of Time

    After the event, someone conducted an interview. "Ms. Stafford, at merely twenty years old, you''ve already achieved so much. May I ask, what are your ns moving forward?"


    Calista held the trophy. Her eyes sparked like a sky full of stars, and she exuded an aura of confidence and strength.


    "I want to work in a hospital as a volunteer doctor. My medical skills are quite good, and I want to save more lives."


    Everyone was taken aback by what Calista had said, prompting some to question in bewilderment, "You''re not pursuing medical research anymore? Sometimes, the introduction of a unique drug can save countless lives, like penicillin and the K- virus antiserum. Why are you choosing to be a doctor instead?"


    Calista shook her head. "Medical research has always been behind the scenes. Now, I want to face life directly. Isn''t life wonderful? I want to see others regain this kind of happiness under my care."


    "Will you continue to pursue medical research in the future? With your skills, it would be a real loss to the medical field if you switched to being a doctor."


    "Absolutely," Calista responded to the persistent swarm of reporters before getting into the car. "I won''t abandon my medical research, and I can still save lives as a doctor. The two aren''t mutually exclusive."


    After Calista got into the car, the reporters were still chasing after it. Their reaction was more intense than that of fans meeting an international superstar. Once in the car, Calista let out a long sigh of relief.


    Kallum handed over a bottle of water with a smile. "How does it feel to be famous?"


    Calista shook her head. ¡°I suddenly feel a bit of sympathy for those celebrities. My face feels like it''s about to freeze from all the smiling."


    Kallum astutely noticed that Calista was a bit different that day. However, he wisely refrained frommenting on it, opting instead to change the subject.


    "By the way, the Ministry of Education extended an invitation to you. Apparently, they want to conduct a special interview with you. They intend to turn your experiences into a textbook to inspire students-"


    "Better not. I''m afraid I might set a bad example for the kids," Calista said with a face full of reluctance.


    Kallum slightly curled his lips. "I have one more question."


    "Yes?" Calista turned to look at him.


    Suddenly, Kallum leaned in, swiftly trapping her in his arms. Lowering his voice, he asked ambiguously, "I mentioned before that after this matter is settled, I would propose we consummate our marriage. Callie, isn''t it time to fulfill your promise? Hmm?"


    The slight uplift in his tone toward the end of his sentence inexplicably caused everyone inside the car to feel a tingling sensation on their scalps.


    Calista stared nkly at him, then turned her head to look ahead.


    Quintus, who was driving, pretended to cover his eyes, quickly raising the partition. This cut off Calista''s faintly pleading gaze. Quintus inwardly cheered Kallum on. That''s right! Mr. Kallum, go ahead and pin her against the chair. Do it in the car! I''ll definitely act as if I know nothing!


    Calista withdrew her pleading gaze and said tly, "I didn''t agree..."


    Kallum moved closer. An intense look filled his gaze as he spoke in a husky voice. "But you didn''t object at the time either."


    It took Calista a moment to regain her focus. She cleared her throat and added, "Wait a minute! I think we may not be in that kind of rtionship yet. You¡ª"


    Kallum pressed a finger against her lips, his brows furrowed in displeasure We''re not in that kind of rtionship? Why don''t you askin public who Kallum Fairchild''s


    fiance is? Most likely, they''ll say your name. If they don''t know, it''s because they don''t follow the news. After all this, you''re still trying to deny it?"


    "You..." Calista recoiled slightly, asserting firmly, "I need to think about this."


    Kallum, dissatisfied, lifted her chin,


    forcing her to look at him. However, his gaze quickly turned aggrieved within a second. "How long have you been pondering this? Can you possibly understand the agony of being an older bachelor? I''m@lready twenty-five! Others are not only tired of women but also men. Have you ever seen such a pitiful CEO like me?"


    Calista couldn''t help but want tough. In the end, she abruptly held back, suppressing her smile. However, her eyes were filled with mirth as she looked at him. "Do you want to do it with a man?"


    "Callie!" Kallum''s tone became noticeably more serious as he started to show his stern side.


    "I don''t care. I''m giving you three days to prepare. I must have you. I want to sleep with you." As he finished speaking with a "ferocious" tone, he leaned over to nip at Calista''s earlobe.


    The bobbing of his Adam''s apple and the slight tremor in his voice, filled with longing, caused Calista to abruptly shrink back her neck, her face flushing a deep red.


    Her hormones running high and her heart racing, she hastily pushed Kallum away with one hand, feigning impatience as she said, ¡°Let''s talk about itter. There are still three days to go, right?"


    Kallum was pushed away and sat to one side with a sullen expression. From the way she looked, he knew she didn''t take him seriously. No, this won''t do. I must sleep with her to rest assured.


    And so, he sent a message on his phone: How do I get my fianc¨¦e to willingly sleep with me?


    Then, he attached a hefty prize.


    Subsequently, quite a few people responded, allured by the prospect of money. Netizen Amented: What''s there to think about? Just go for it! Netizen B: Why are you being so formal when you''re already engaged? Girls are usually shy. It''s definitely up to you to make the first move!


    Netizen C: Diamond ring, handbag, fresh flowers, and a bit of a romantic setting


    to set the mood. With a gentle nudge in the right direction, everything will fall into


    ce.


    Netizen D: Even the strongest


    woman may eventually be swayed


    by a man''s persistent efforts. Be


    more persistent and shower her more sweet nothings. Also, be willing to spend more money-and time on her. Once you''ve done all that, winning her heart is just a matter of time.

 Chapter 440 A Mischievous Smile

    "There are a lot of big shots upstairs..."


    Kallum scrolled through the information, his brow furrowed in deep concentration. His expression suggested that he was about to convene a meeting to make a pivotal decision. His mind worked swiftly, sifting through the answers and absorbing their merits like a sponge soaking up water. asionally, his gaze would flicker toward Calista, making her feel on edge.


    Why do I get the feeling that Kallum seems to be up to no good?


    The following day, despite the objections from many, Calista made her way to Sky Beacon Hospital.


    The hospital belonged to her, but it was currently under the management of Kallum''s team. Naturally, she had no intentions of interfering and was content with being free.


    She was somewhat apprehensive about meeting Kallum, so she started her day early by heading to school, where she canceled her leave. She spent her mornings in ss, and her afternoons and evenings volunteering at the hospital. Her schedule was even more packed than Kallum''s, who was a high-flying CEO. This left Kallum frustrated, as he could only see herte in the evenings.


    However, each time Calista returned, she looked utterly exhausted. As she offered her medical services voluntarily and only dealt with particrly challenging cases, her daily routine involved acupuncture. Her technique was unique, draining her energy significantly. Seeing her in such a state, Kallum couldn''t bear it and repeatedly let her off the hook.


    But this can''t continue. It is clear as day that she is just trying to avoid the inevitable.


    Kallum was deep in thought, contemting strategy. He decided to adopt the tactics thatizens suggested. Summing it up, it was about being persistent, shameless, generous, and a sweet-talker.


    So, one day, he cleared his afternoon schedule to visit the hospital. Upon seeing him, Levi, who was in charge of the hospital, quietly allowed his boss to jump the queue discreetly.


    Calista pressed the bell. ¡°Next, please.¡±


    It was then that Kallum entered.


    When he walked in, an elderly woman was expressing her gratitude to Calista.


    "Thank you so much! After only two visits, I''m feeling so much better. The other hospitals all wanted me to have surgery, but you, you''re amazing, a few needles and I''m all better! You''re practically a miracle worker!"


    Calista looked somewhat weary, but her eyes were still full of vitality. ¡°Don''t mention it. It''s not a big deal at all. Make sure you rest well when you get home and don''t catch a cold."


    "Alright! You truly are a wonderful person!"


    In those days, it was rare to find a well-known doctor who didn''t charge a fee, waspetent, and also had a good temperament!


    After she left, Calista sat down and, without lifting his head, asked the newly arrived Kallum, "What seems to be the problem? Hand me your medical record."


    Kallum curled his lips slightly, sitting across from her. "Doctor, it seems like there''s something wrong with my eyes..."


    Upon hearing Kallum''s voice, Calista abruptly lifted her head. A fleeting hint of panic shed through her beautiful eyes, yet her expression remained indifferent, forcibly concealing the turmoil within.


    "What... what are you messing around for? There are still a lot of people waiting for me!" Calista tried to drive him away with her words, but she dared not look at him.


    Frowning, Kallum confessed, "My eyes have been really ufortable... especially recently, it''s been getting worse."


    Seeing his serious expression, Calista asked skeptically, "What''s wrong with your eyes?"


    Kallum looked at her and said pitifully, "It''s as if my eyes are ying tricks on me. Everyone I see resembles you, and even when I close my eyes, it''s still you. What should I do? Is there no hope for me?"


    The brazenment took Calista by surprise, causing her cheeks to flush with embarrassment. She gritted her teeth and shot a re at Kallum. "Stop getting in the way of my work. Go home!"


    Kallum wasn''t about to obey her. He leaned in closer, insisting, "If things really go south, you''re the only one who can save me. How could you just stand by and do nothing?"


    Left with no other choice, Calista


    responded coldly, "I''m sorry, I''m notpetent enough, as I don''t specialize in ophthalmology. Perhaps you should go to the third consultation room on the second floor? Dr. Hoffman is a specialist in this field."


    "Callie!"


    Kallum huffed, swiftly lifting Calista into his arms. She let out a startled cry, and in the next moment, she felt the world spin around her. Before she knew it, she found herself pressed against the examination bed in the room.


    The examination bed, meant for patients, was partitioned off from the rest of the


    room with a curtain. However, the curtain hadn''t been drawn, so anyone entering


    could easily see what they were up to.


    "You... jerk! Hmm...!"


    Before Calista could finish her


    words, she was abruptly silenced by


    Kallum''s lips. He was extremely eager, exploring her mouth as if iming a new territory. In a daze,


    Calista caught a glimpse of his eyes,


    feeling as though they were truly glowing with a fervent light.


    "Callie... Callie, I''ve missed you so much..." he murmured, all the while showering


    her with kisses.


    "Kallum, you shouldn''t¡ª"


    Before Calista could even finish her sentence, he silenced her again. It didn''t matter they were in a hospital with many patients waiting outside.


    After all, a man overwhelmed with lustcked rationality. He held her tighter, his breathing bing more frantic, while his voice grew increasingly husky.


    "Let me hold you tight. Don''t resist, or you''ll regret it!" He lowered his voice threateningly, greedily taking in the scent from her neck as if he were addicted to


    it.


    Engulfed by Kallum''s fervor, Calista felt a bit dazed. Just then, she heard a knock on the door from outside.


    "Dr. Stafford, I''ve brought the documents you requested... Dr. Stafford, are you there?"


    Calista was startled, hastily sitting up to push Kallum away. But this time, Kallum didn''t cooperate. Instead, he seized her hand, a mysterious glint shing in his eyes as he let out a mischievous smile.


    "You... let go, someone''sing from outside!"

 Chapter 441 A Secret Rendezvous

    "I won''t let go, unless you tell me when you will satisfy me!"


    Calista gritted his teeth. "How can you do this? You''re... taking advantage of my moment of weakness!"


    Kallum chuckled lightly. "So what if I am? It''s not my fault you''ve been avoiding me, forcing me to resort to such measures..."


    "Dr. Stafford?" The knocking from outside persisted, while Kallum straddled over Calista, a mischievous grin on his face as he lifted his head to kiss her earlobe. His voice was like a feather, lightly tickling her eardrum.


    "Have you made up your mind, darling? Please me and I''ll let go. Otherwise, if someone walks in and sees you like this, it won''t be good for your image..."


    Calista opened her mouth, but in the end, she didn''t utter the promise. She simply couldn''t believe that Kallum had no regard for her reputation.


    The two of them found themselves at odds, neither willing to back down. Yet, their bodies were entwined. Calista was seated, while Kallum was half-standing, one foot on the ground and the other straddling her, asserting his dominance from above.


    "Do whatever you want!"


    She simply closed her eyes.


    "I can''t believe how disobedient you are..."


    With a sigh of resignation, Kallum gently cradled the back of her head with one hand, forcing her to lift her face to be kissed.


    Calista''s heart pounded uncontrobly, but her hands were too weak to push him away. The confined space began to heat up steadily, with the sensuous monas echoing around them, causing both of their breaths to be erratic.


    At that moment, the young nurse suddenly burst through the door.


    "Dr. Stafford?"


    Almost simultaneously, Kallum pulled the curtain in front of him, instantly separating the inside from the outside. He then turned off themp inside, making it impossible to see any figures from the outside. His series of actions made Calista feel as if they were having a secret rendezvous, her heart beating rapidly.


    However, Kallum didn''t stop misbehaving. After he turned off the lights, he once again pinned her beneath him.


    Calista wanted to resist, but Kallum silenced her by gently pressing on her lips. He then whispered in a voice so soft, it was barely audible.


    "Don''t move, unless you want others to know what you''re up to right now..."


    When the nurse came in, she heard the curtain rustle and curiously approached. "Dr. Stafford, is that you in there?"


    Calista had no choice. Before the nurse could get any closer, she hastily responded, "Yes! I''m here, I... I was just asleep. I''m sorry..."


    "Oh, it''s no problem." The girl said with augh. "I''ve brought the documents you needed."


    Upon seeing her shadow draw near, Calista was startled. She quickly eximed, "Don''te in!"


    The nurse abruptly halted, slightly puzzled.


    Biting her lip, Calista said, "It''s noon already, I have a headache and need to rest. I''m in a state of undress... so don''te in."


    "I see! I didn''t realize you were resting since the ''Do Not Disturb'' light wasn''t on.


    I''m really sorry for the interruption. Let me turn it on for you, so the patients outside will know you''re taking a break."


    "Thank you "Calista''s words of §Ö gratitude were abruptly cut off by a


    soft grunt. The cause was none


    other than the audacious Kallummet


    who had chosen that moment to press his lips against her earlobe. She felt a sudden jolt send a shiver down her body, leaving her feeling weak. Seeing Kallum grinning mischievously in silence, Calista was seething with anger. Yet, she couldn''t make a scene because the nurse was still in the room.


    "What''s wrong? Are you feeling unwell, Dr. Stafford?" the nurse asked with genuine concern.


    In the darkness, Kallum''s smile deepened. He bent his head down, patiently teasing Calista''s sensitive spots using the tip of his tongue. Everywhere he touched, a shiver of excitement was ignited.


    Calista felt an overwhelming sense of despair, almost on the verge of tears. She leaned in close to Kallum, her voice barely above a whisper yetced with gritted determination.


    "What exactly do you want?"


    Little did she know, her lips identally grazed his earlobe, causing Kaiser''s breath to hitch and him to nearly lose control.


    "What do I want?"


    Kallum pressed himself down onto her, allowing her to fully experience his reaction. His spoke in a fiery tone.


    "What do you suggest I do?"


    Calista''s face instantly turned beet red.


    "You shameless-"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Kaiser had silenced her again! To make matters worse, the overly enthusiastic nurse outside continued to ask questions.


    "Dr. Stafford, what''s really going on with you? Your voice doesn''t seem to sound quite right. Are you feeling alright?"


    In a swift motion, Calista turned her face, allowing Kallum''s kiss tond on her neck instead.


    "Ah... I''m... I''m okay, you can leave now. I''ll be fine in a bit... Mmm!"


    Suddenly, she let out a cry, her voice alluring and provocative. The nurses outside couldn''t help but blush inexplicably upon hearing it.


    It turned out that Kallum had subtly bitten her corbone when she wasn''t looking.


    At that moment, Calista''s entire body blushed.


    "Tell me, when will you satisfy me? Just give me a time and I''ll let you go..." Although Kallum said this, the impatience in his voice indicated that hehad no intention of letting her go. He even wanted to im her right there and then!


    Cornered by Kallum, Calista had no other options. The heat radiating from


    Kallum''s body was like a glowing hot iron, making her feel as if she was about to


    melt...


    The nurse outside listened for a


    moment before she finally spoke in a subdued tone. ¡°Alright... I''m stepping out now, call me if you need anything. Oh, yes! Dr. Zillon asked me to inquire if you are free tonight. You helped him outst time, and he would like to invite you to dinner as a token of his gratitude."


    Kallum was initially busy with teasing Calista, but upon hearing Dr. Zillon being


    mentioned, rm bells went off in his head.

 Chapter 442 Flames Of Jealousy

    "Who is he? Why did he invite you to dinner?" His voice was barely a whisper, yet through his suddenly tightened grip, Calista could feel the mes of jealousy pulsating within him.


    Before Calista could respond, the nurseughed and said, "Dr. Stafford, you are truly fortunate. Not only do you have a handsome and wealthy fianc¨¦, but you also have so many admirers! Dr. Zillon is quite a catch too, with his good looks and gentle demeanor. Many doctors and nurses have tried to ask him out, but he seems to only have eyes for you. It''s a pity you''re already engaged... But no worries, you''re technically still single until you''re married. Times have certainly changed, haven''t they?"


    Fury zed in the eyes of Kallum, like two clusters of flickering mes. He red menacingly at Calista. In the darkness, a shiver ran through her body, and a sense of guilt washed over her for reasons unknown.


    She responded loudly, "Um... don''t just make things up. He doesn''t have feelings for me..."


    "Isn''t it obvious?" the nurse said with a hint of envy. "Dr. Zillon waits for you to have lunch together every day. Whenever he has a moment, hees looking for you. He''s never been this proactive before."


    Calista was on the verge of tears. "Every time hees, it''s because he has questions..."


    "Come on, those are all just excuses. Dr. Zillon''s father is the director of City Hospital. His medical skills are top-notch in the entire city. He couldn''t possibly have so many questions."


    Kallum''s passionate thoughts were gradually consumed by rage. Who is this audacious fool, daring to covet my woman? It''s as if he has a death wish!


    "Alright, alright... But I won''t dine with him tonight. Could you turn him down for me?" At this point, all Calista could do was sigh.


    "Ah... You''re rejecting him, huh... Well, it figures. Your fianc¨¦ is so handsome. Of course you wouldn''t be interested in Dr. Zillon. Poor guy, I should go andfort him!"


    "Go... Just go..." Calista was practically begging the nurse to quickly leave, never to return.


    Once the nurse had finally left and the door was closed, Kallum switched on the light, ring at her.


    "Tell me! Over these few days, who else has taken a liking to you?"


    His voice grew more bitter with each word he spoke. "What''s this nonsense about being single as long as you''re not married? Let me tell you, you''re mine! You''ve been my fianc¨¦e since we were kids, and if you dare have thoughts of anyone else, I..."


    After pausing mid-sentence for a long while, he finally added with a menacing tone, "Whoever you set your eyes on, I''ll cripple them. I''m not joking!"


    Calista pressed her forehead, groaning in exhaustion, ¡°I... Where would I find the time..." I''m already struggling to manage even one, okay?


    Kallum was still not satisfied, demanding again, "So, when will you marry me?"


    Once we''re married, there probably wouldn''t be so many hopeless suitors anymore, right?


    Calista''s eyes widened at how abruptly he changed topics. She stared at him, speechless.


    "You''re already twenty, legally of age. If you''re not marrying me, then who are you nning to marry?" Kallum narrowed his eyes, posing the question with a threatening tone.


    Calista paused for a moment, then said softly, "Being twenty is still very young, don''t you know? I haven''t even had the chance to enjoy my youth, and you''re already asking me to get married?"


    "Enjoy your youth?" Kallum raised his voice upon being riled up, questioning, "Who else do you want to enjoy it with? Am I not enough for you?"


    His expression was incredibly fierce. ring at her, he appeared as if he wanted to kill her.


    Calista felt like bursting a vessel. "Anyway... let''s just talk about itter."


    Kallum crossed his arms over his chest, looking at her with dissatisfaction. "What''s the point? You can''t escape your fate. In this life, there''s no other way out for you, other than marrying me."


    Calista gritted his teeth. "Every single day I dy it counts as a victory for me!"


    The words left Kallum quite dissatisfied. He felt somewhat hurt and suddenly


    murmured in a low voice, ¡°Do you really find me that repulsive.....¡±


    The vibrancy in his eyes dimmed, as if his confidence and vitality had also faded away.


    "Even now... you still can''t ept me, can you..."


    Upon seeing him like this, Calista instinctively uttered, "It''s not that..."


    "Hmm?" Kallum nced over instantly.


    Calista''s expression was a bitplicated. Finally, he said with a tone of frustration, "I need a bit more time... Let me think it over..."


    "How much longer do you need?¡± Kallum moved closer to her, his expression intricate as he


    whispered, "Not a moment, a


    apart from you. I love you. Doylet


    minute or a second do I want to be


    stifflove me?"


    Calista bit her lip, unsure of what to say.


    Yet, before she could figure it out, the color drained from Kallum''s face, as if he


    had misunderstood something.


    "Forget it, if you need time, I''ll give it to you. I just don''t want to hear anything from you that I don''t want to hear, okay?"


    Calista slowly nodded, for some reason, he felt a pang of inexplicable guilt. Seeing his face wilt, Calista subconsciously spoke out.


    "Um... Let''s have dinner together tonight..."


    u;


    The moment the words left her lips, she wished she could take them back. However, seeing the sudden sparkle in Kallum''s eyes, she found it hard to do so.


    "Great! I''ll go reserve us a spot right now, and I''ll pick you up this evening."


    After giving it some thought, Calista nodded in agreement.


    Kallum turned around, his previously low spirits suddenly shifted, and a smile unexpectedly appeared at the corner of his mouth.


    People online suggested that showing a bit of vulnerability to women could stir their sympathy, leading them to fall into the trap themselves.

 Chapter 443 I Am Sick Too

    I''ve got it! He could feel that if things continued this way, he was getting closer to winning Calista over.


    Recently, Calista had been feeling overwhelmed, a sensation brought on entirely by Kallum. He had been growing increasingly adept at cornering her, leaving her no room for refusal as he pressured her relentlessly.


    That day, Calista sought refuge in the hospital to catch her breath, too afraid to return to her school. This was because the day before, Kallum had made a donation to their school for the construction of a newboratory. He had requested that theb be named after her, which resulted in everyone at the school looking at her with expressions of admiration. They praised her for achieving sess in both love and career at such a young age, saying she had already reached the pinnacle of life.


    Kallum seemed to wish that everyone in the world knew she was already spoken for.


    She couldn''t bear to think anymore, for it would only make her feel suffocated.


    She nced at her appointment book. Alright, there''s only one patient left for the day. It was now seven in the evening, she decided to have a quick bite before heading home. It''s almost time.


    If things got any worse, she really didn''t know where she could hide. Going back to the Stafford residence was out of the question, as Benedict would probably just send her away again... Oh, right,st time Ambrose was so shocked that he fell seriously ill. I have been so busy that I haven''t gotten around to visiting him yet. The day before yesterday, he had called to say he wanted toe over to thank her personally, but both Calista and Jarrett thought it was best for him to rest, given his poor health. They had agreed that she would visit him next time.


    So, she decided it might be a good idea to stay a few days under the guise of visiting a friend. However, she was unsure if Kallum would do anything to Jarrett. They are both adults, so they probably wouldn''t make a fuss over such a small matter, right?


    With this thought in mind, Calista slightly curved her lips and pressed the bell.


    "Next, please."


    She called out and after a brief moment, a tall and handsome man walked in. His eyes held a mischievous sparkle. Calista was in the midst of drinking water when she looked up and saw him. She then spat out a mouthful of water in surprise.


    "Why are you here again?" she blurted out, causing Kallum to wear a hurt expression on his face.


    "So, you really don''t want to see me, huh..."


    "I..." Calista wiped her mouth, exining in ackluster tone, "That''s not what I meant..."


    "Does that mean you really want to see me?" Kallum''s eyes lit up again.


    At that moment, Calista was struggling to maintain her stoic facade, wishing she could just drop dead right there and then.


    She had been nning to sneak away but couldn''t do so now that Kallum had arrived.


    She cleared her throat and said, "This is my workce; you can''t disturb me like this..."


    Recalling the incident that urred in the roomst time, a faint blush emerged on Calista''s face. She said seriously, "During work hours, only patients can see me. So..."


    "I''m sick too!" Kallum casually sat down in front of her.


    Calista looked at him with a puzzled expression. "What''s wrong with you this time?"


    Kallum held her hands, grinning as he said, "I''ve got a case of touch deprivation, and I''m particrly craving for you... Hmm... holding your hand makes me feel a bit better!"


    "Stop messing around..." Calista wanted to step back, speaking wryly. "I''m not good at diagnosingplex ailments."


    "I''m sure you can." Kallum''s yful demeanor was tinged with a hint of seriousness. He chuckled deeply. "I''ve fallen head over heels for you. You are my only cure."


    Here we go again...


    Calista was utterly helpless against him. Surely, Kallum wouldn''t deny me thisst sanctuary of the hospital, would he? If he were to visit every day, I would have to spend the entire day in a state of fear.


    "You must be hungry, right?" Kallum


    asked with a light chuckle,


    situation. "I''ve ordered a meal from Lavender Lounge Restaurant. Their soup is quite famous. You''re sure to


    love it!"


    He tugged at Calista, but she remained unmoved. "I... I still have patients to


    attend to."


    Kallum rose to h


    his feet, casting her a


    nce with an indiscernible smile. "I''m well aware that I''m thest one. Besides, if you don''t want to leave, why don''t we stay here, just likest time, and you can help alleviate my touch deprivation?"


    Easing his touch deprivation... Calista resigned herself to being led away by Kallum. There was no one there. If he were to lose control, she wouldn''t be able


    to escape. Hence, it seemed safer to head outside.


    Once they arrived at Lavender Lounge Restaurant, they had barely been seated for two minutes when the dishes started to arrive one by one. The spread was indeed delicious and abundant. However, for some inexplicable reason, Calista was reminded of thest meal of a death row inmate.


    Recently, Kallum had been enthusiastically taking her out to eat, from candlelit dinners, themed banquets, and borate vegetarian feasts. Is he fattening me up for ughter?


    While sipping her soup, Calista was pondering over this issue.


    At that moment, a table nearby suddenly knocked their tes to the floor. The waitstaff rushed over to clean up the mess, and a janitor was called to clean up the leftover food scraps on the ground.


    Upon seeing who the cleaner was, Calista''s pupils contracted. Following her gaze, Kallum took a look and then furrowed his brows. "That''s Yelena, what is she doing here?"


    Calista shook her head. "After Dad drove her out, I heard she went to find Quincy, but I''m not sure why she''s here. Probably because Quincy didn''t take her in."


    Originally, Yelena was tidying up the floor. When Calista nced over, she seemed to sense something and looked back, her expression suddenly froze. "Hurry up and clean, what are you standing there for?" The server reprimanded them before ushering the patrons from one table to another.

 Chapter 444 A Commotion

    Yelena nced at herself, then turned her gaze toward Calista. Her eyes zed with twisted hatred.


    Suddenly, she dropped the rag in her hand and headed toward Calista. The server responsible for Calista''s table was taken aback and quickly tried to intervene. However, Calista merely said indifferently, "It''s okay. Let here over."


    Only then did Yelena charge over.


    But the interruption earlier struck a brief moment of rity in her mind that was clouded with rage.


    She didn''t dare cause a scene by flipping the table, hissing through gritted teeth instead, "Are you here to mock me? Let me tell you this. Quincy will be here to pick me up soon! Then, there''s Hans. Once he''s free, he''lle and look for me too! Don''t be too hasty in rejoicing in my misfortune!"


    Kallum''s brows furrowed, but he didn''t say anything.


    Calista, holding a silver spoon in one hand and propping up her chin with the other, said with a smile, "I hadn''t even said anything. Why are you emphasizing that?"


    Because of Matthew, Kallum secretly gave the Langley family a hard time. Matthew was so livid that he was still in the hospital. Even if he were discharged, his days would probably be numbered.


    And so, his children began to fight over the family inheritance. Hans ended up being suppressed by his two younger brothers. If it hadn''t been for Wyatt stepping in, he would have likely been kicked out of the family. Now, Wyatt was the one calling the shots in the Langley family, and Hans had to live at the mercy of his son. Even if Hans wanted to bring home the woman who had caused all that, Wyatt would never agree.


    As for Quincy, it was as clear as day. If she were willing to take Yelena home, thetter wouldn''t have ended up there in the first ce.


    Calista''s indifferent attitude was a great humiliation to Yelena. Had it not been for this b*tch before me, I would still be the morous Mrs. Stafford, the cherished daughter-inw of the Langley family! It was she who ruined everything and ruined me!


    Following that thought, her emotions surged once again.


    "Calista, what kind of attitude is this? I''ve been your stepmother for over a decade, and this is how you treat me? Yes, you''ve achieved fame and sess. I heard that the Ministry of Education even wants to use you as a teaching material. Pah! You don''t even know filial piety, so don''t mislead the younger generation! I''ll expose you so the whole world knows your true colors!"


    Yelena''s voice was loud. Coupled with the recent buzz around the name Calista, she drew the attention of many diners.


    Noticing the attention, Yelena held her head high like a triumphant rooster. She looked down on Calista as if she had some leverage over her.


    Kallum nned to have Yelena thrown out. No sooner had he called Quintus'' name than Yelena seemed to guess his intentions.


    She plopped down onto the ground and began to wail loudly, "Quick,e and look! Calista is throwing her weight around and beating up her stepmother!" "What''s going on here?"


    The manager arrived promptly. Upon seeing the restaurant''s cleaner causing amotion with a guest, she almost keeled over.


    She turned to the dumbfounded server and barked, "Why are you just standing around? Hurry up and throw her out!"


    However, a considerable number of guests had gathered around. Unexpectedly, they didn''t take her to task. Instead, they pointed and whispered about the female diner. On closer inspection, the manager was almost scared witless.


    Isn''t that Mr. Kallum and the recently popr Medical Genius, Calista? Oh, no! I hope they don''t hold a grudge against the restaurant!


    As the server attempted to restrain Yelena, her struggles intensified, and her cries grew even louder.


    "Quick,e and see! The renowned scientist is assaulting her stepmother! Come and watch this! Calista is ungrateful, beating her stepmother up!"


    As soon as she did so, nearly all the guests came over. The people who dined there were somewhat


    influential, so they were naturalet


    familiar with Calista and Kallum. Those who originally intended to curry favor didn''t dare approach upon seeing Yelena making a scene, making the atmosphere awkward as they stood around watching.


    "Gag her and throw her out," Kallum said impatiently.


    "Yes, yes, Mr,


    Ir. Kallum! I''m on it! I''m


    on it right away!" The manager had never expected that a mere cleaner of their establishment would dare stir up trouble in front of Kallum. Even if she were to spout the most outrageous ims, no one would dare leak a single word. And she wants to ruin Calista''s reputation? Calista could easily crush her without a second thought now!


    While those thoughts ran in her mind, she hastily ordered someone to gag Yelena. However, Yelena seized the opportunity and bit one of those restraining her. The pain caused the server on her left to loosen his grip, allowing her to break fr¨¦e in an instant.


    She charged toward Calista, but when a mere inch remained between them, she was tripped by Quintus. Before she could even get up, Quintus stepped on her chest. Every time she tried to rise, he ruthlessly stomped her back down.


    "Calista! You''re a b*tch, scoundrel, and ingrate! You-" she cursed incessantly, her words so foul that the manager wished the ground would open up and swallow her whole.


    "Why are you lot standing around? Hurry up and throw her out! Throw her out!" With both hands covering her face, the manager directed a few servers to step forward. However, Calista waved a hand and dismissed them.


    The servers didn''t dare approach any further. Meanwhile, Calista turned her body sideways and cast her gaze at Yelena.


    She deliberately said, "Since you im that I beat you up, I would be doing you a disservice by not fulfilling your request. Quintus, give her a couple of kicks so she knows how it feels."


    Yelena was taken aback. She hadn''t expected Calista to be so ruthless that she dared resort to violence even under the watchful eyes of the crowd. She has only started gaining fame. Does she not care about her reputation at all?

 Chapter 445 Please Spare Quincy

    At Calista''s order, Quintus chuckled and replied, "Yes, Ms. Calista. I''ll ensure she won''t be able to utter a single word."


    Upon seeing that Quintus was serious, Yelena began screaming while shielding her head, ¡°Have you no shame, Calista? Do you want the entire world to know how ruthless you are?"


    With a smile, Calista motioned for Quintus to step back. Then, she teased her by saying, ¡°If the price of fame is to respond to hostility with kindness, I''d rather remain obscure."


    Yelena''s face was pale, but after over a decade of oppression, she could still stand up to Calista even when she was suppressed to that extent.


    She shouted fearlessly, "I am your stepmother! I''m a cleaner here, but you sit here and eat like royalty! Aren''t you afraid of the world''s condemnation?"


    Calista grinned wickedly. "You''re right. It''s a bit inappropriate that you work here while I dine here. But don''t worry. You''ll soon be let go, and this issue will cease to exist."


    That was the veritable truth. Not only had the manager rushed over, but even the boss made an appearance, gritting his teeth in frustration as he looked at Yelena. If it weren''t because Calista was still talking to her, she would have been thrown


    out long ago.


    Yelena looked back at the crowd, her voice trembling.


    "You''re so heartless! After all the trouble I went through to find a job, and with everyone watching, you want to back me into a corner? You won''t even leave me a lifeline? What''s the point of me living, then? I might as well drop dead right before your eyes!"


    The moment she threatened suicide, a ripple of unease spread through the crowd. The boss and staff, in particr, were so terrified that their faces drained of all color. Yet, Calista merely watched her with a smile.


    "That''d be easy. Just bang your head against that pir. Please don''t stop her,dies and gentlemen. If she dies, I''ll take the me."


    Her words left Yelena as pale as a sheet. Facing off Calista, who was impervious to all forms of persuasion and maniption, one wrong move could be fatal.


    Kallum''s brows furrowed. He cut the foie gras into small pieces and fed a piece to Calista, murmuring, "That''s about enough. We wouldn''t want to spoil your appetite."


    Calista nodded. She looked at Yelena smilingly.


    Only after she had swallowed the foie gras did she say, "Go ahead."


    Yelena burst into tears at the top of her lungs. "This is outrageous! The heartless


    Calista is pushing her stepmother to death!"


    Kallum fed Calista another bite of food, looking at her in exasperation.


    "It''s too noisy."


    "Oh well, all right then." Calistaughed.


    She waited until Yelena had finished wailing before asking, "You didn''t even get to see Quincy, did you?"


    Taken aback, the weeping Yelena paused momentarily.


    Calista


    continued, "I heard that


    you.


    Quincy is currently seeking the favor of a tycoon from Summerbank. She probably doesn''t have time for How about this? I''ll take you to see her. I''m sure once that tycoon finds out she''s still involved with you, he will definitely cut ties with her. Quintus, take her to see Quincy."


    "Yes, Ms. Calista!"


    As soon as Quintus moved, Yelena, who was in a daze, let out a yelp and clung to the nearby table.


    "No! I''m not going! I''m not going to see her! I''m not going!"


    If I were to ruin Quincy''s rtionship, she would despise me even more!


    Seeing her all fearless and serious, Calista could only shake her head and sigh.


    "If you don''t go, it puts me in a difficult position. After all, you ruined my dinner. I need to punish you in some way. Otherwise, people might think I''m a pushover. What should I do?"


    By then, Yelena was eating out of Calista''s hand. Just a few words had her in a state of panic. Crying, she pleaded for mercy. This time, her tears were genuine.


    "Please don''t take me there! I beg you... please spare Quincy!"


    "Spare her?" Calista shook her head. "She''s living the high life. Plus, you kept parading yourself in front of me. Every time I see you, I feel like venting it on her. What do you suggest I do?"


    "I... I''ll leave right away! I promise to never appear in front of you again..." Yelena started crying, a genuine disy of her vulnerability and helplessness instead of an act.


    At that moment, Calista found herself suddenly annoyed with her. She dismissed her with a wave of her hand. "Remember what you said. If I see you again, I''ll crush Quincy. It so happens that I have some score to settle with her anyway."


    "I''m leaving! I''m leaving right now!"


    After Yelena said that, she scampered off.


    Noticing that Calista seemed to be in a bad mood, those who came over to greet her tactfully left their business cards without disturbing her further.


    Kallum also sensed that something was off with her. He quickly asked, "What''s wrong?" Recalling her importunate stepmother, he added, "Did she do something to upset you just now?"


    Calista shook her head. "What can she possibly do to upset me? So long as I pose a threat to Quincy, she would even lick my shoes if I asked it of her. She''s ruthless to outsiders, but she''s genuinely good to Quincy. Unfortunately, Quincy doesn''t care for her anymore. Hmph! I guess that''s karma."


    Knowing she was thinking of herself, Kallum couldn''t help but console, "Don''t overthink it. Even the worst people have a good side. But as long as Yelena targets you with the evil


    side of her, she doesn''t deserve your forgiveness. If you really find those people unbearable, I''ll drive them all away for you."


    Calista shook her head, a coldugh escaping her lips. ¡°Let them be. They pose


    no threat to me now, and most of my enemies are already dead.¡±


    That was indeed true.


    Mirabelle had long since learned to keep a low profile, not to mention Quincy, who would hide at the mere mention of Calista''s name. Yelena, once such an arrogant individual, was then working as a lowlycleaner. Sterling and Harvey were dead, while Horatio had been sentenced to life imprisonment. As for the others... they didn''t matter anymore.

 Chapter 446 Yulissa Fairchild

    "Then, let''s have dinner. Stop thinking about those troublesome people. Anyway, their fate in the future is in your hands."


    At Kallum''s words, Calista nodded. That''s true.


    So, she stopped thinking about those annoying people and focused on enjoying her meal.


    "By the way, our family is nning a party in a few days. Thanks to you, the Fairchild family had a moment in the spotlight. Those on the board of directors are eager to meet you and express their gratitude," Kallum said with a smile.


    "Okay. Whatever you say," Calista replied nonchntly.


    Inwardly, her mind wandered. If there were to be a party, he probably wouldn''t have that much time to seek me out anymore. This would also give me the time to sort my thoughts out properly.


    Sure enough, Kallum was quite busy these past two days. The house also saw its fair share of guests. Calista inexorably breathed a sigh of relief.


    However, a girl among them was Kallum''s cousin. She had just returned from abroad and was utterly astounded when she saw Calista, insisting that a child born of Calista and Kallum''s gicbination would be absolutely breathtaking.


    Taken aback by her enthusiasm, Calista hid at the hospital. In her absence, the girl went to Kallum. However, her cousin was swamped and had no time to entertain her.


    "Kallum, what have you been so busy with? It''s been days. Yet, you haven''t had a proper conversation with me!"


    Yulissa Fairchild pestered Kallum. Noticing that he was engrossed in hisputer, she sneaked a peek when he was not paying attention and burst outughing.


    "What on earth is all this? A hundred ways to woo your wife and how to win the heart of your love? My goodness! You''re actually hiding here, reading this stuff?" Yulissa dramatically eximed.


    Now that Kallum had been discovered, his ears turned a deep shade of red. He red at her hard. "Stop causing trouble, kid. Go and y outside."


    "I haven''t been a kid for a long time. I''ve even had three boyfriends!" Yulissa huffed.


    Her eyes suddenly flickered, and she snickered wickedly. "No way! Kallum, you still haven''t won over Calista? Hmm, I think Calista seems to be avoiding you!"


    Upon noticing that Kallum''s expression darkened in an instant, she delightedly moved closer and nudged him with her elbow.


    "Don''t tell me... you two haven''t... done the deed yet? Are you serious? You''ve known each other for twenty years! Kallum, you''re really dropping the ball here. Surely, you can''t be impotent, right?"


    "Of course not!" Kallum instantly retorted as the matter concerned his male pride and allure. With a cold expression, he fibbed, "I was just... killing time by reading these books, okay?"


    A hint of cunningness showed on Yulissa''s rounded face.


    "Really?" She smirked, baring her canine teeth. "Then, why haven''t I seen you two sleeping together these past few days?"


    Ah, it turns out she has noticed something amiss a while ago.


    Kallum gave her a stern look, then flipped hisptop shut.


    "All right, you''re not needed here. Go bother my mom if you''re bored!"


    Yulissa harrumphed. Seeing that he appeared ready to work seriously, she dragged her feet toward the door.


    However, just as she reached the doorway, she abruptly turned around and asked mysteriously, "Oh, yes... if I have a way to get you two together, how would you n on thanking me?"


    Kallum swiftly lifted his gaze to look at her, then cleared his throat awkwardly, feigning indifference with a dismissive grunt.


    "What kind of scheme are you cooking up now?"


    Nheless, his ears uncontrobly perked up. Recently, he also felt that the time was ripe, and all that was left was the final push. But no matter how much he racked his brain, he couldn''t find a solution, which left him utterly frustrated.


    "What do you mean by scheme? I''ve got a great idea, guaranteed to make things work out for you. Just say if you want to hear it!"


    If I were to say yes, that would mean acknowledging that Callie and I haven''t been intimate yet... Kallum found himself torn. But in the end, his desire held the upper hand.


    "Go ahead... and say it!"


    Yulissa burst intoughter immediately. "Haha... I just knew it! You''re really hopeless, Kallum. To think that my dad and the others are afraid of you when you''re such a coward!"


    "Get out if you''re not going to tell!" Kallum snarled unceremoniously, finding herughter infuriatingly embarrassing.


    "All right, all right, I''ll stopughing. I''ll stop. Strictly speaking, you''re quite pitiful. Wait a minute. You''re not still a "


    "Yulissa Fairchild!"


    "Okay, okay, I''ll be serious! I''ll


    behave!" Xulissa massaged her face,


    which had gone numb from all theughing. She firmly shut the door again, putting on an expression akin to a sly merchant.


    "If things work out, what''s in it for me?"


    "What do you want?"


    "I want a limited-edition sports car, but it''s too expensive. Even after I had begged endlessly, my dad refused to buy it for me."


    "Okay," Kallum replied without a second thought.


    Yulissa instantly sidled up, patting herself on the chest and assuring, "Don''t worry!


    My n is foolproof. Hehe... Granted, you''ll have to endure some hardship and y along with it."


    Kallum had a somewhat uneasy feeling, but he remained silent.


    Yulissa chuckled. "What''s the matter? You''ve got cold feet? Do you still want it to happen?"


    Recalling Calista''s skin that was smoother than silk and the thought of her indifferent eyes overtaken by desire, Kallum''s Adam''s apple bobbed.


    He countered harshly, "Cold feet? I''m merely afraid your n won''t work and waste my time!"


    "How could it not work?" Even if it were for the sake of that car, Yulissa was ready to give it her all. "Just wait and see. I have everything under control!"


    Determination zed in her eyes, leaving Kallum suddenly filled with anticipation despite having no idea of her n.


    On the day of the party, Calista sensed something off from the very beginning. Take her gown, for instance. It was held together by just a single tie around her neck. If were in the past, Kallum would never have allowed her to wear such an outfit. Although it was stunning, it was also sexy, showcasing her attractive figure without leaving anything to the imagination.

 Chapter 447 Green With Envy

    That aside, Yulissa, who was overly enthusiastic and insisted on helping her change, made Calista feel a bit uneasy.


    After Calista had changed, she emerged in a ck halter gown adorned with countless tiny diamonds. The gown had a high slit on the side that reached her thigh, offering a glimpse of her long and slender legs as she moved. Even Yulissa felt as if she were about to drool.


    "Wow! You''re simply stunning! If Kallum were to see you, he''d definitely be riveted on the spot!" Yulissa stated confidently.


    Calista found her lower body and back chilly. The gown was indeed beautiful, but it was revealing, baring her legs, shoulders, and a great expanse of her gorgeous back. Her milky-white skin contrasted with the silver-ck gown, creating an extreme allure and a sense of restrained beauty.


    "Was this gown really chosen by Kallum?"


    "Of course..." Not.


    Yulissa stuck out her tongue, questioning her cousin''s taste in fashion. Admittedly, the gown Kallum chose was pretty. But that was mainly because Calista could pull off anything with her tall and slender figure. However, that gown that didn''t meet Yulissa''s aesthetic standards was already hidden away. The one Calista wore then was handpicked by her, a piece that could undoubtedly turn heads and make


    men swoon.


    Upon hearing that, Calista didn''t suspect anything and went out wearing the gown.


    The party that night was beyond lively. Other than numerous members of the Fairchild family''s board of directors, there were also many business partners. Even a significant number of political figures graced the event. It was indeed a gathering of the influential and distinguished.


    Initially, Calista felt a bit ufortable. But upon seeing women dressed even more daringly everywhere, she eased up.


    Most of the women who came that night were hell-bent on finding a wealthy husband. Kallum was naturally a target. If given the opportunity, they definitely wouldn''t let him slip away. But apart from him, there were many other options, so they''d rather make a mistake than miss out.


    At that moment, Kallum was engaged in conversation with an elderly man. Thetter was one of the only three generals in Chanaea. They appeared to be enjoying their discussion immensely.


    That night, Kallum was particrly striking. He was dressed in a dark blue suit, his tall and upright figure making the outfit look incredibly stylish. His eyes, which resembled precious gems, crinkled slightly with a smile when he spoke to people, lending him an irresistible charm.


    His every casual gesture captured the undivided attention of the women around him. However, as soon as he caught sight of Calista, he was instantly taken aback.


    Calista had gathered her long hair up, securing it with a pearl hair clip. Her sensual attire and ascetic expression turned countless heads as she walked past. Some even nearly twisted their necks, trying to keep her in sight.


    Whoa! Is this the legendary Medical Genius? Not only is she incredibly aplished at such a young age, but she''s also stunningly beautiful! How can we ordinary folkspete?


    That was a bitter sentiment shared by all women.


    Calista felt very uneasy under so many watchful gazes, but she was not one to easily show her emotions, thus remainingposed.


    She threw Kallum a wink. Only then did Kallum jolt back to his senses, his face flushing instantly. The next moment, a thought crossed his mind. His face turned even redder. But this time, it was out of fury.


    He strode over, removing his jacket and draping it right over Calista. His deep violet eyes seemed to be on the verge of spitting fire.


    "Who told you to dress like this?"


    He gritted his teeth, jealousy swamping him. Only I have the privilege to see such a sight usually, but now, these perverts have gotten a glimpse! How infuriating!


    Yulissa shrank back slightly. "Doesn''t it look good?"


    I just knew it was you!


    Kallum shot Yulissa a re. Then, he helped Calista into her jacket, fastening each button securely. The men present heaved a sigh of regret, for they hadn''t had their fill of the view yet.


    At that moment, the general approached and said, "So, this is Ms. Stafford? Sure enough, she is as capable as any man."


    Kallum made the introductions. "This is General Delgado."


    Calista graciously extended a hand. "You tter me, General Delgado."


    "Good, good! When you two get married, I''ll definitely attend the wedding banquet!"


    Calista''s smile was somewhat stiff while Kallum promptly expressed his gratitude. "Rest assured that you will definitely be invited when the timees."


    Following that, quite a few people came over to chat with Calista, separating the couple.


    That evening, Calista was


    undeniably the center of attention. Moreover, everyone found it far more enjoyable to engage with such


    a stunning beauty than those such


    and plump men, not to mention that she was incredibly capable.


    Seeing Calista surrounded by people, Kallum went green with envy inwardly, his jealousy unbearable. Where are all these people looking? How I wish my jacket were long enough to wrap Calista up to her ankles!


    He was also surrounded by quite a


    crowd, most of them socialites. However, his eyes were fixed on the people around Calista, and he exuded an aura of displeasure. Those who initially wanted to chat longer with Calista felt a chill down their spines upon inadvertently catching a glimpse of Kallum''s gaze. They quickly wrapped up their conversations and slinked away.


    Relieved, Calista turned around, only to see Kallum. She couldn''t help butugh.


    "You''re going to scare away the guests by acting like this."


    Kallum excused himself from the people around him and walked over to her. He took her hand into his, his expression finally easing. "If they don''t even have this much discernment, they might as well note before me."


    ve


    His smug and arrogant look made Calista burst intoughter.


    Her smile at that moment was quite different from before. The sudden blossoming


    of it was like fireworks in the dark or a fleeting fragrance that left one uncontrobly fascinated.

 Chapter 448 Something Has Happened To Kallum

    "Callie, you look truly beautiful tonight!" Kallumplimented.


    Calista''s smile faltered for a moment. Then, her eyes flickered subtly, a mischievous smirk ying on her lips. "Really?"


    "Yes, really!" Kallum nodded. Lowering his voice, he whispered into her ear, "You''re so beautiful that I''m already hard."


    Upon hearing that, Calista instantly shot him a re. "How shameless of you!"


    Kallum chuckled lightly. "Do you believe I can be even more shameless?"


    Calista turned to walk away, but Kallum firmly held her back.


    ¡°They all kept asking when we''re going to get married.¡±


    Here we go again. Every day, without fail, he would try to push me into marriage.


    By then, Calista had grown ustomed to it. She replied with a wicked grin, "Let me think about it. You were the one who told me to take my time."


    Kallum was disheartened. Just then, he noticed Yulissa subtly signaling him behind Calista.


    Understanding her meaning, he abruptly said, "I have something to take care of. Stay here, and don''t wander around."


    Seeing that Calista seemed unconcerned, he couldn''t help but caution, "Don''t pay too much attention to these people. Also, don''t drink anything they hand you. Wait for me to return, okay?"


    "Got it, Mr. Fairchild."


    Since Calista had agreed not to wander off, Kallum followed Yulissa somece else.


    Yulissa led him to a rtively secluded room in Fairchild Manor, where someone was already waiting for them.


    "Yulissa! He''s your cousin? How handsome! Can I turn the act into reality?"


    Like Yulissa, the blonde girl was only eighteen and had just returned from abroad. Upon her return, she heard numerous stories about Kallum and Calista. Naturally, for a young girl like her, Kallum was more appealing. Hence, she had been long since curious about him. Seeing how outstanding he was in person then, she was so excited that she practically jumped for joy.


    Yulissa shot her a re. "Save it! With Calista''s beauty and grace, Kallum won''t even give you a second nce!"


    The blonde girl puffed out her chest. "That Calista must be a total nerd to be so aplished so young. Does she have my sense of fun or my ample bosom?"


    Kallum nced at the scantily d blonde girl before him, a sense of foreboding creeping into him.


    He turned and asked Yulissa, "This is your n?"


    Before Yulissa could even answer, the blonde girl pushed past her. Her eyes sparkling, she said to Kallum, "Hello. I''m Marsha Dunn. Yulissa asked me to do you a favor."


    As she spoke, she moved forward, thrusting her ample bosom toward him. Kallum instinctively frowned and took a huge step back.


    "Don''t stand too close to me!"


    Kallum''s action had Yulissa burst intoughter. "Pfft! Haha... You now know not everyone likes busty women, huh? Besides, with you so over the top, only sleazy middle-aged men and homebodies would appreciate you!"


    Kallum''s dodging wounded Marsha''s pride greatly. Pouting pitifully, she asked Kallum, "Why did you dodge? Am I not pretty?"


    Kallum red at Yulissa, gritting his teeth as he barked lowly, "She''s the n you were talking about?"


    Upon noticing that Kallum was starting to get irritated, Yulissa quickly tugged at Marsha for the sake of her beloved car. "All right, enough of that! Be serious! Don''t forget the matter at hand!"


    With a pout, Marsha muttered, ¡°Seducing men is also a serious matter...¡± "What on earth do you n to do?¡± Kallum straightened his clothes, suddenly regretting his decision to y along with Yulissa. She seems incredibly unreliable! Yulissa quickly assured confidently, "Don''t worry. My n is foolproof! All you need to do is put on an act with Marsha. Calista will definitely fall for it!"


    Hearing that, Kallum couldn''t help but be enticed despite finding her unreliable. Stretching his patience, he stayed.


    "Tell me about your n."


    Yulissa nodded repeatedly and took out a small bottle from her handbag.


    She lowered her voice and started mysteriously. "My idea is quite straightforward! This is the


    best-selling aphrodisiac in Machia''s ckmarket, and it can only be countered by the sex hormones produced when a man and a woman get intimate! Moreover, with just one pill, even the most virtuous woman won''t be able to resist her desires. No one is exempt!"


    Kallum''s face instantly flushed bright red, and he red at Yulissa in fury.


    "You want me to drug her?"


    "No, no, no..." Yulissa giggled, her eyes gleaming with craftiness. "I want you to take it!"


    Shock inundated Kallum.


    Calista was in deep conversation with a senior figure in the medical field when she suddenly realized that Kallum had been gone for quite


    a while What could have happened? Could he have gotten held back by some woman somewhere?


    Recalling the numerous socialites who surrounded him previously, she shook her head and didn''t dwell on it any longer.


    Unexpectedly, Yulissa suddenly ran toward her from a distance and grabbed her hand at that precise moment.


    ¡°Calista! Calista, thank goodness you''re here! Quick,e with me! Something''s happened to Kallum!"


    Calista looked at her strangely. After politely taking her leave from the elderly man, she then asked her, "What''s wrong with Kallum?"


    It''s Fairchild Manor here, and K virus has been eradicated. What could possibly happen to him?


    Meanwhile, Yulissa was so anxious that she was sweating profusely.


    "I just saw Kallum being led to a


    room by a woman. The thing is, he didn''t even respond when I called out to him! The woman imed he was drunk, but he''s famous for his high alcohol tolerance! Something''s definitely off here!"

 Chapter 449 You Actually Do Not Care

    Calista raised an eyebrow slightly. "You said Kallum went to a room with a woman?"


    "Yes, yes! But I believe he must be innocent. That woman must have done something to him!" Yulissa said.


    Calista looked at her with a half-smile. "Kallum is a cautious man. It''s usually difficult for people with ulterior motives to get close to him. I reckon that woman is someone he knows, so he''ll be fine. Just stay calm."


    Yulissa''s eyes widened in disbelief. Her fianc¨¦ has gone into a room with another woman, yet she''s asking me to stay calm! Did I hear her right?


    She silently swallowed her rage, clutching onto Calista''s gown. "That woman doesn''t look like good news at all. She''s heavily made-up and all seductive. I''m worried sick about Kallum... Shall we go and check on him?"


    With her wine ss in hand, a softugh escaped Calista. Her ck gown was undeniably sexy, yet it emanated an icy chill when worn by her, just like the color ck itself, mysterious and dangerous.


    "Don''t worry. Kallum isn''t someone who''s easily set up by others... If we rush over there, I''m afraid we might disrupt him from catching up with an old friend... So, I''m not going."


    Kallum ended up caving in to Yulissa. But the moment he swallowed the pill, a pang of regret hit him because he understood Calista and vice versa.


    It''s uncertain whether she would be taken in by Yulissa or if she would evene. If she doesn''te...


    A surge of heat welled up from within him, causing him to let out a stifled grunt, his voice low and seductive. His vision gradually blurred. All that were signs that the aphrodisiac was taking effect.


    "Mr. Kallum... how about I tie your hands behind your back?" Marsha cautiously asked, staring at him intently and swallowing.


    That was also one of Yulissa''s outrageous schemes. She intended to immobilize Kallum, feed him a potent aphrodisiac, and fabricate a scenario where he appeared to be set up and taken advantage of. Then, she would have Calistae over to y damsel in shining armor.


    When Calista arrived, they would quickly lock the door. In a situation where the aphrodisiac had no cure save for having sex, they didn''t believe Calista would stand by and let Kallum suffer all night.


    Moreover, even if Calista did nothing, it wouldn''t matter. They would only pretend to tie him up. When the time was right, Kallum could free himself and pounce on her to get the deed done.


    Strictly speaking, the n was wless. However, Yulissa failed to consider the slim chance of Kallum being set up in his own home, something Calista was well aware of.


    Seeing that Calista refused to go and check on Kallum, Yulissa was as anxious as a cat on a hot tin roof and continued persuading her.


    "Calista, how could you not go? Kallum is your fianc¨¦! Aren''t you afraid something might happen to him? Besides, even the wise aren''t always free from errors. What if this turns into a regret thatsts forever?"


    Meanwhile, Kallum panted softly. His body had be extremely sensitive, Yet, oddly enough, his mind hadn''t be muddled. He even felt as if the aphrodisiac had no effect on him at all. After all, there was a scantily d beauty standing next to him, but he felt nourge to pounce on her whatsoever. Could it be that I had taken a fake pill?


    Marsha swallowed quickly. Kallum couldn''t see himself, so he wasn''t aware of how he looked then. But in her eyes, he had lost his usual aloofness that kept people at length at that moment. Nor was he high and mighty. Instead, he seemed hazy and ethereal, like amangel who had identally wandered into the human world, causing her heart to flutter uncontrobly.


    His asional suppressed moans made Marsha''s cheeks flush bright red, and her hands tying him up unknowingly exerted a bit more force than intended. She was initially supposed to tie a loose knot but instinctively tied a dead one.


    "Calista... Calista! I''m begging you! I''m really worried about Kallum!" Yulissa was at her wit''s end. She hadn''t anticipated that Calista would remain unmoved after hearing such explosive news. In her desperation, her acting became increasingly poor that anyone could see through her at a single nce.


    Calista had an idea of the n they had waiting for her, and that made her feel a bit uneasy because she genuinely hadn''t decided how to manage her feelings for Kallum.


    The truths and lies of the past, coupled with the recent ups and downs, left her in a state of turmoil and confusion.


    Even though Kallum persistently tried to get closer to her, she still hadn''t made up her mind to take that step.


    That was why she was so hesitant at that moment.


    Yulissa used a mix of persuasion and coercion, only to see Calista staring at a single spot indifferently as if she hadn''t heard a word she said. Seeing her doing so, Yulissa suddenly felt a pang of aggravation. It wasn''t because she didn''t get the top-notch sports car Kallum


    promised. Instead, she felt


    aggrieved on behalf of her cousin.


    She could see how the outstanding man loved Calista wholeheartedly, his thoughtfulness and care in every possible way.


    However, the same couldn''t be said of Calista. She didn''t seem to care about Kallum at all.


    In his pursuit of her, Kallum was even willing to try something as foolish as taking an aphrodisiac. He would never have resorted to such a measure if he weren''t desperate. He loves her deeply, yet she remains indifferent throughout it all. He deserves better!


    "You actually don''t care about Kallum at all, do you?" In a corner of the party, Yulissa''s expression suddenly turned icy. "Otherwise, why are you still unmoved when I''ve persuaded you for so long?"


    Calista turned to look at her, her starry eyes shimmering with fragmented light, making it difficult for anyone to discern the emotions within.

 Chapter 450 Is It Just Wishful Thinking

    "I''m unmoved because I believed nothing would happen to him," Calista stated.


    Yulissa suddenly let out a coldugh, raising her voice. "You''re being overly rational, aren''t you? They say the more one cares, the more concerned one gets. It seems you don''t have the slightest concern for him! I''ve misjudged you!"


    After saying that, she spun on her heel and left. She no longer found Calista attractive nor thought thetter was a good match for her cousin. This cold- hearted woman isn''t worthy to be Kallum''s wife at all!


    However, she had barely taken a step or two when someone abruptly grabbed her hand.


    When she turned around, she saw a somewhat lost look in Calista''s eyes.


    Kallum waited for a long time, but Calista never showed up. Heughed self- deprecatingly. Well, it''s no surprise... Callie has probably long since figured out what I''m nning to do. It''s only natural that she decided not toe.


    Luckily, the aphrodisiac wasn''t too potent, and he could still pull through it without much trouble. However, he felt a sense of loss deep within. It was as if a piece was missing from his heart, the pain unbearable.


    When Marsha saw that Calista didn''t show up, she was secretly thrilled. This is my opportunity!


    Her almond-shaped eyes darted toward Kallum. Due to the heat, he had unbuttoned the top three buttons of his shirt, revealing a well-built but not overly exaggerated muscr frame. His fair skin had taken on an alluring hue of wheat from the potency of the aphrodisiac. As his chest rose and fell, the perfect contours of his body stretched taut, sparking endless imagination.


    Such an absolute catch was then helplessly tied up on the bed. With his eyes ssy and him being defenseless, no one could resist such a temptation.


    For a moment, Marsha was captivated by the breathtaking view before her and instinctively extended her hand toward it.


    "What are you doing?"


    Kallum''s eyes, which had been half-closed, suddenly snapped open. There was no trace of desire in them anymore. Instead, they were icy cold as if intending to kill.


    Marsha was so frightened by his gaze that she yanked her hand back. However, remembering his current predicament, she mustered her courage and said, "It''s been so long. Your fianc¨¦e probably isn''ting. But I know this medicine is extremely potent. Instead of enduring it, you''d be better off having fun with me..."


    She moved closer as she spoke. In the end, she shed him a fawning smile. "Rather than being in pain, I can help you. Anyway, your fianc¨¦e doesn''t seem to care much about you. Without her, you still have me..."


    Her casual remark of Calista not caring much about him struck a sudden, sharp pain in Kallum''s heart. It was as if arge hole had been punctured in an already sore spot, the coldness cutting to the bone, causing his entire body to shudder with suppressed tremors.


    "Go away!"


    In Marsha''s eyes, his rejection meant nothing at all. Even if he loved Calista deeply, she felt confident that he could not resist an alluring beauty standing right before him after taking an aphrodisiac unless he was impotent.


    So, sheughed and leaned in even closer. ¡°Come on. Your fianc¨¦e won''t know. But even if she were to learn about it, she probably wouldn''t care."


    That remark caused Kallum to abruptly close his eyes before opening them again in anger.


    "I told you to get lost!"


    His cold and ruthless dismissal scared Marsha so much that any romantic thoughts she had vanished instantly.


    But soon, she began to feel aggrieved. Young, she was usually pampered and indulged, never having been treated in such a manner.


    And so, she rose to her feet, mustered her courage, and said loudly, "What''s wrong? Was that not the truth? If she cared about you even the slightest bit, she wouldn''t be so cold-hearted! Are you sure she''s your fianc¨¦e? Or is it just wishful thinking on your part?"


    Her words had Kallum''s bound hands promptly clench tightly, and he looked at her as if she were dead.


    At that moment, he felt greatly humiliated. But when he opened his mouth, he couldn''t refute a word of it.


    Is Callie my fianc¨¦e? All I have right now is the result of my relentless effort. But at the end of the day, it''s all just my wishful thinking...


    "Be mindful of your words, youngdy."


    Calista''s distinctive cold voice rang out, startling the two individuals in the room.


    Marsha turned around in a panic. The moment she caught sight of Calista, her vision blurred. Astonishingly, she felt as if a blinding light shone right at her, making her unable to look directly at thetter.


    "You... You''re her?"


    "Yes." Calista sighed softly, her voice tinged with a hint of helplessness. "I am indeed the cold-hearted fianc¨¦e you spoke of. Although I''mte, I''m here now. You may leave."


    When she said that, she was soposed that it was as if Marsha was just a whimsical child. Even if she wanted to sleep with her man, it was merely seen as


    a mischievous act.


    Her attitude made Marsha feel


    embarrassed. Not only was she


    rejected by someone else fianc¨¦ she tried to seduce, but she was even caught red-handed by the fianc¨¦e. Yet, Calista appeared entirely indifferent. Marsha''s face flushed bright red. In the end, it was Yulissa who rushed in, pped a hand over her mouth, and dragged her away.


    Yulissa couldn''t quite figure out what was wrong with Calista. She was initially cold and detached, but after a few harsh words from her she agreed toe with her. Regardless, Yulissa had already aplished her task. Next, she was determined not to let anyone ruin Kallum''s n.


    Therefore, she didn''t utter a single word. After she had dragged Marsha out, she locked the door without locked


    hesitation. Beyond the door, shs


    dered loudly, "Calista, I bet you''ve figured it out. Yes, I orchestrated all of this! And the aphrodisiac I gave Kallum wasn''t some ordinary stuff. If you don''t want to watch him suffer to death, you''d better make a little nephew for me!¡±


    She deliberately made the situation sound grave. After all, there was no way to


    salvage the mess of a n. None of the three parties in the n were


    cooperative, making her job as the nner incredibly difficult.

 Chapter 451 In Disbelief

    After she finished speaking, she stormed off with the indignant Marsha. This foolish woman actually dared to harbor ill intentions toward Kallum. I''m going to teach her a lesson!


    The sound of the door being locked echoed, leaving behind a silence in the room so profound that it was as if life itself had ceased to exist.


    Although she eventually showed up, the mere thought of her reluctance toe until this moment, or perhaps only being persuaded by Yulissa''s relentless insistence, left Kallum feeling suffocated.


    He thought she didn''t care about him at all, not in the slightest.


    Ironically, his body betrayed him. From the moment he heard Calista''s detached voice, his body felt as though it was being tortured, as if a fire was spreading throughout his entire being. He sat up, lips pressed together, and legs arched. At that moment, he didn''t want Calista to notice anything amiss with his physical state.


    The room was so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. Calista had been standing all this while and only moved after a quarter of an hour. During this time, neither of them spoke. It was the first time things had been so tense between them.


    "Don''te any closer!"


    Just as Calista wanted to draw closer, Kallum suddenly stopped her. Calista paused and furrowed her brows in confusion.


    Kallum, however, had his eyes closed, resting his chin on his knees as he caught


    his breath. "If you''re not willing, don''te over!"


    Kallum hade to a realization. There''s no point in insisting if Calista is unwilling. Even if I managed to win her over, what then? If she wants to leave, she''ll still leave.


    She was rational, independent, and had a clear sense of self-judgment. If he couldn''t win her heart, it was utterly pointless.


    And so, at that moment, he found himself rather ridiculous. It was a feeling that was both humiliating and degrading, yet whenbined, it was simplyughable.


    The most amusing part was that he harbored hopes deep within his heart. He hoped that the reason she sought him out in the end was that she was ready. He was utterly helpless against her allure, her scent seeping into his being like a lethal poison. His body craved her intensely, yet his rationality forced him to resist for certain reasons. It was as if he was engaged in a futile struggle.


    A thousand thoughts whirled through his mind. Despite his eyes being closed, his ears remained attuned to the sound of her footsteps.


    Just as expected, she indeed stopped moving! Kallum''s face turned deathly pale.


    In this stifling silence, Kallum was on the verge of confronting her. If she wasn''t ready, why did shee, giving me hope only to let me down? Does she find amusement in my emotional roller coaster all because of her?


    Had he not been drugged, had he not been bound, Kallum would have certainly stormed out to clear his mind. Only a madman would have done such a ridiculous thing as he did that night. It was nothing short of self-humiliation.


    Just when he was on the verge of suffocation from despair, Calista took another step.


    At that moment, Kallum almost opened his eyes in surprise and joy. However, upon seeing her, he gritted his teeth and stubbornly reiterated his point again.


    "I''ve warned you! If you''re not ready, don''te over!" he said.


    as father stern, and his


    His tone was


    eyes were reddened from restraint. He red at her intensely, like a cornered beast, his eyes filled with a profound longing and repression for flesh and blood. His body was visibly tense, as if he was ready to pounce at any moment.


    Finally, Calista let out a long, deep sigh.


    She walked over and sat on the edge of the bed. Her gaze held aplexity he had never seen before. In the end, all thatplexity turned into determination. She squinted slightly and suddenly asked with a smile, "Do you want me to leave?"


    Her words felt like a p in the face. He didn''t understand why she would possibly think he wanted her to leave when he was in such a state. Kallum opened his mouth to speak, but no word came out. His face turned crimson with anger, but even then, he couldn''t bring himself to rebuke her. He simply couldn''t do so.


    Suddenly, Calista reached out, unfastening the button of her suit jacket.


    Kallum''s gaze hardened. His eyes bore into her like a menacing wolf. They were barely half a meter apart, close enough for him to distinctly catch the cool, intoxicating fragrance wafting from her. Every whiff was dangerously captivating.


    He suddenly turned his head away, his body rigid as he asked, "Do you even know what you''re doing?"


    Calista casually tossed her suit aside and nonchntly ran her fingers through her hair.


    "Don''t you dare to look anymore?" she asked.


    That''s impossible! Kallum turned his head to re at her, his forehead glistening with sweat. A few strands of short hair clung to his forehead. At that moment, his purple eyes were unfathomably deep.


    He had practically etched every


    detail of her appearance into his mind with an insatiable desire, especially when he saw her half-smile. The potency of the medicinal effects within him and his own impulses was on the verge of consuming his sanity.


    "Are you truly willing?" His voice suddenly dropped to a low rasp, a faint tremble discernible upon careful listening.


    Even though his body was screaming out for her, he still wanted to respect her wishes. The first time, they had fumbled through it, lost in confusion. But for the second time, he hoped it would be a sweet memory filled with mutual love. Calista nced at his bound hands and feet, a hint of amusement sparkling in her eyes. "Come on. Mr. Sutton also mentioned that a healthy sex life would be beneficial for my mental state. Apart from you, do I really have any other options?" Her words left Kallum almost unable to trust his own ears. Things had suddenly turned around. His heart pounded violently, and his eyes regained their unusual sparkle.


    "Of course you don''t! Apart from me, don''t even dream of having any other man in the entire world!" he uttered.

 Chapter 452 Desperate And Impulsive

    Seeing him finally regain his spirits, Calista let out a sigh. "What am I to do? You''vepletely consumed me in two lifetimes. I feel such a failure, so unsatisfied..."


    Her words carried an underlying message of sweetness that was too profound, a joy too intense that it almost left Kallum breathless. He found himself involuntarily leaning toward her, his eyes growing brighter and brighter.


    "You''re the one who haspletely consumed me, you wicked woman. I-I''ll love you dearly."


    As he spoke, he moved to untie the rope behind him. From the beginning, it was agreed that the rope was tied in a slipknot. Calista was right in front of him, looking as if she was ready for the taking.


    Kallum struggled forcefully a couple of times, but Calista''s consent made him lose all reason. All he wanted was to throw himself at her, to tear her apart, to make herpletely give in to him.


    He was desperate and impulsive, but he couldn''t break free.


    At that moment, the expression on Kallum''s face was priceless. He never, in his wildest dreams, imagined that Marsha had put him in a permanent knot.


    Under normal circumstances, it wouldn''t have mattered if he hadn''t taken that pill, even if it resulted in a permanent knot. Simrly, it wouldn''t have mattered if Yulissa hadn''t used such a remarkably resilient rope.


    However, he was weak and feverish at that time, and the rope was ridiculously durable. Hence, he couldn''t free himself to rush toward her.


    Once again, Kallum found himself mentally cursing his own impulsiveness. He couldn''t believe he''d let himself get roped into Yulissa''s shenanigans. I''m stuck, and there''s no way out!


    Calista was actually somewhat nervous, but she was pretending to be rxed.


    However, once she had made up her mind, she had no thoughts of backing out. Seeing Kallum suddenly wear a shocked expression, she raised an eyebrow slightly, a sudden realization dawning upon her.


    "You couldn''t possibly be unable to untie it, could you? Didn''t you discuss this with Yulissa? Are you seriously stuck?" she asked.


    At that moment, Kallum felt like he was on the verge of spitting blood. Seeing his reaction, Calista realized she had actually guessed right. She couldn''t help but burst intoughter.


    "No way! So, you''re actually into bondage y? I-I had no idea you had such a preference in both of my lifetimes."


    Kallum gritted his teeth. "I-I don''t!"


    "What''s going on? Was Yulissa trying to gift wrap you for me?" Calista stole a nce at the bound Kallum and licked her lips. "You do seem quite appetizing."


    "Calista!" Kallum resignedly closed his eyes. Seeing her smile so joyfully, he just couldn''t bring himself to ask her to free him. How could this happen? This is downright disgraceful!


    He forcefully struggled, not willing to believe his predicament. However, the more he writhed, the tighter the ropes became. D*mn it! I want to have sex!


    After struggling with the rope in the dark for a couple of minutes, Kallum finally understood that he truly couldn''t free himself. Meanwhile, Calista had had her fill


    ofughter and was then watching him with a gaze full of intrigue.


    "So, are youpletely at my mercy now?" she asked.


    Seeing that he truly couldn''t move, Calista, who was initially a bit nervous, was thenpletely at


    ease. She moved a little close grinning mischievously as she sized him up. In the past, it was always him taking the initiative to tease her. At that moment, it was finally her turn to take control.


    With a silent curse, Kallum finally gave in. "Callie, help me get out of this!" he pleaded.


    Suppressing augh, Calista leaned in closer. "What if I say no?"


    Suddenly, she leaned in, causing Kallum to retreat instinctively. Without any hesitation, Calista lunged forward, forcing Kallum to lie back on the bed.


    After that, Calista leaned over him, watching him with great interest. "You''re actually blushing..."


    She then ran her slightly cold fingers down the side of Kallum''s face, causing a shiver to run through his entire body. Then, a wave offort washed over him, making him want to sigh in relief.


    He yearned for more, and he yearned for all of her.


    Callie''s scent was intoxicating, herughter was incredibly beautiful, and her lips seemed so invitingly kissable.


    Wait! How could I let our second time happen under such passive circumstances? Wouldn''t this be a disreputable past in the future? Kallum gritted his teeth, forcing himself to stay lucid. However, his eyes were glistening, and his breathing was rapid.


    "Callie... Please untie me!" he pleaded.


    Seeing him struggle to hide his difort, Calista deliberately bit her lower lip and hesitated before saying, "What am I supposed to do now? I''m suddenly finding it quite appealing to have you beneath me. I''ve only heard about being the woman on top before this..."


    A woman on top? Should you be so unabashed in discussing such embarrassing matters? Kallum merely let his imagination wander and his breathing became harsh. When he looked at her again those purple eyes seemed almost predatory, filled with a d¨¦sire that suggested he could devour her whole.


    ¡°Darling... Be nice... You don''t know how to do that. You''ll get hurt if you''re on top!"


    Kallum was spouting nonsense to appease her. In reality, ever since she had thrown herself at him, his mind had been in a whirl. He just simply couldn''t let her be on top of him.


    With a soft chuckle, Calista lightly traced his lips with her fingers. Seeing his breath hitch, she yfully slipped her finger into his mouth, teasing the tip of his tongue.


    Her actions, executed with an expression devoid of any romantic desire, inexplicably drove people mad. With just one nce, Kallum felt as if he was consumed by fire as if his body was about to split apart.


    Overwhelmed by an uncontroble urge, he found himself drawn to her fingers, his actions fueled by a fervent desire that nearly drove him to madness. Give it to me! Give it to me!

 Chapter 453 A Surge Of Passion

    "Callie..." He had barely begun to plead when Calista''s mischievous fingers trailed down from his lips to rest against his throat, herughter echoing like a devil''s.


    "I''m inexperienced, but so are you. Does it matter who takes the lead?" she asked, while her other hand slowly began to undo the buttons of his shirt. "You were too rough with me that one time. This time, I want to take the lead..."


    The memory of that one time came rushing back to him at her words. The dark night, therge ship, the young man and woman, the tumultuous tide of emotion, and the snow-white figure all seemed to be branded into his mind, reappearing vividly.


    Suddenly, Kallum let out a low growl, his body tense as he tilted his head back. Under the influence of the medicine, he leaned back restlessly, revealing his taut neck and throat. At that moment, he didn''t care about anything else. He just wanted her. He didn''t care who was on top as long as he could have sex with her.


    The moment he lifted his head, Calista''s gaze darkened. Yielding to her instincts, she lowered her head, biting down gently on his Adam''s apple, her tongue subtly making contact.


    "Callie... Callie!"


    Kallum called out her name in desperation, straining against the ropes with all his might. Even as his wrists swelled with blood, he didn''t care. He wanted to tear her apart, to punish her for daring to seduce and tease him.


    In a situation where he could not break free, all he could do was momentarily feign weakness. So, he tilted his head back to look at her, urgently uttering, "Come on! Give it to me!"


    Yet, Calista found herself thoroughly enjoying this surge of passion.


    She straightened up. Her always cool and indifferent eyes then held a hint of desire. There was an overwhelming sense of restrained passion about to shatter, a broken beauty. It was as if something was struggling to break free from the calm facade, ready to consume everything in its path.


    Fascinated, Kallum found himself increasingly restless. He repeatedly called out her name, hoping to ignite a shared desire within her.


    Feeling his excitement, Calista gave a mysterious smile. "Be good. The night is still young. There''s no need to rush."


    As Calista spoke, she chuckled under Kallum''s watchful gaze and untied the band around her neck.


    Her long ck dress slid down, pooling around her kneeling knees. The sight of her naked body took Kallum''s breath away. His mind went nk for a moment, and in the end, only one sentence filled his entire consciousness. The breathtakingly beautiful body before me is mine! Only I can touch it!


    Calista gathered her loose, flowing hair, revealing her impressive curves. "Are you satisfied with what you''re seeing?"


    Kallum watched her, utterly captivated. His body was wound tight to the brink as if the slightest touch would break him. His gaze grew increasingly intense, and his breathing became more and more ragged.


    "Callie..." Kallum made a vow there and then. Next time, I''ll surely have her bound, tease her relentlessly, and make her experience the torment of desire before iming her fiercely!


    Calista lowered her gaze, her fingers moving with a grace akin to a bestowed blessing. She unbuttoned his shirt slowly, revealing a set of abs glistening with a thinyer of sweat and the smooth lines of his v-shaped torso. Her fingers lingered on the belt as she tested his patience.


    Kallum tilted his head back, gasping for breath. He had been holding back for so long that he felt a throbbing pain, presumably from his prostate. Yet, Calista was moving at such a leisurely pace that it was driving him to the brink of insanity.


    Her violet eyes were soaked with a misty sheen, and the lips she bit down on so hard revealed traces of blood.


    He wanted nothing but her to pick up her pace.


    Calista didn''t keep him waiting for long, even though her actions were deliberately slow. She unlocked his desire, causing Kallum to stiffen impatiently, letting out a sultry, muffled groan.


    "Hurry up..." he urged in a hushed and husky tone.


    Calista was momentarily stirred by his voice, and she cast him a nce.


    She hadn''t fully undressed them both, and the lower part of her body was concealed by a long skirt, leaving nothing in view. Then, in an alluring manner, she took off her underwear.


    When Kallum watched as Calista casually flicked a small piece of fabric to the ground with her fingertips, he could almost hear the sound of his own sanity shattering into pieces.


    His eyes seemed as if they could see through her dress, picturing the wild scene underneath, causing his body to be even more flushed and rigid.


    They both emitted a soft quiver when their bodies pressed against each other.


    Calista looked at him in a daze, suddenly breaking the silence. "Actually, had a hunch that you were plotting something against me. At first I didn''t want toe. want to take that step, allowing you to shatter my defenses once again."


    Her words gradually restored Kallum''s sanity. He shifted ufortably, tilting his


    head back to ask hoarsely, "Then why did youe?"


    This question elicited a look of profound helplessness from Calista, and her eyes were filled withplexity.


    "Because the thought of you meticulously preparing everything and me not showing up, knowing how disappointed you would be, somehow, I just couldn''t help myself..."


    Kallum was taken aback.


    Calista propped herself up with her hands on either side of him. Her body was arched in an exquisite curve above him. Her eyes sparkled like stars, her voice low and deep.


    "I thought I hadpletely


    discarded certain things, but


    because of you, they returned. I believed was rational and ruthless


    enough, yet you repeatedly


    ve


    shattered my principles." Seemingly puzzled, she sighed and asked, "So, what should I do with you?"


    Kallum''s heart pounded fiercely. Apart from a certain part of their bodies pressed against each other the rest of their forms were entirely unentangled. Yet, at this moment, he felt as if their souls were intertwined. Whether it was wishful thinking or a doomed rtionship, they were tightly knotted together, impossible to separate.

 Chapter 454 I Love You

    "Admit it, Callie. You''re in love with me," he said.


    Even though she maintained aposed exterior, he could already sense that her body was also ame for him. The realization of her love for him hit him like the most potent aphrodisiac, causing his body to tremble slightly at the mere thought.


    "Love you..." Calista repeated mysteriously. Her husky, bewildering voice instantly struck Kallum''s soft spot. He then groaned softly, his body moving upward, inching its way deeper into hers.


    Right then, both of them shuddered. Every inch Kallum moved inward drove him wild with an overwhelming sense of intensity and warmth.


    Being inside of her, he obtained not only the ultimate physical pleasure but also a sense of conquest, a strong thrill of plunder. It made his eyes bloodshot, and he clenched his teeth to stop himself from doing things without considering the consequences.


    "You love me, Callie. Admit you love me!" he uttered. How else could one exin that despite her clear expression of difort, she still allowed herself to ept my advances? How else could it be exined? She had wanted to leave repeatedly, yet she persisted for my sake.


    Her calm demeanorpelled Kallum to suppress his urge to rush things. Although he took things slow and steady, thefort he felt was something no one else could provide.


    It seemed as if an eternity had passed before Kallum fully prated her. At that moment, he was drenched in sweat, yet he didn''t forget tofort her tenderly by asking, "Does it hurt? I was very gentle."


    Gritting her teeth, Calista refused to let any difort show on her face. Finally, she opened her eyes, as clear as if they had been washed by water, and answered with a blush, "You''re much gentler than thest time."


    Her words had a devastating effect on Kallum. A bead of sweat as big as a bean trickled down Kallum''s forehead. His veins were bulging beneath his muscles as if he could even hear the rapid flow of his blood.


    "Untie me. I promise to please you!" he said.


    Calista chuckled lightly. "Are you kidding me?"


    She shifted her body, sessfully eliciting a sharp intake of breath from Kallum. "You may be able to bear it now, but once the medicine takes effect, you''ll surely lose control. Didn''t you once say that I was a masterpiece?"


    Kallum had lost his mind, his sanity slipping away from the moment she uttered those words.


    "Therefore, let me handle it. All you need to do is enjoy."


    With that, she disregarded Kallum''s objections. She took control of the pace, moving slowly yet seductively, provoking an intense pleasure that was so extreme it only left one craving for more.


    That was, without a doubt, the most blissful yet painful moment that Kallum had ever experienced. "Go deeper! Darling, just a bit deeper!"


    Due to Calista''s minimal movements, Kallum was constantly teetering on the edge of madness. The itch he felt was always out of reach, perpetually unsatisfied. His body was not only unrelieved, but it was bing even more unbearable. He thought if only she would go a bit deeper, he could be so much happier.


    Calista''s long hair was curled up and stuck to his chest. She hummed softly like a cat, her voice barely audible as she said, "No way... It''s too big. I can''t take it all.¡±


    Kallum felt like he was on the verge of losing it. How could it be possible that she couldn''t handle it when she managed just fine the first time?


    Every time he attempted to take control, Calista would subtly shift, leaving him with no choice but to match her rhythm. He allowed his desires to be momentarily alleviated, only to be met with an even more intense counterattack.


    When he finally ejacted, the dissatisfaction was so intense that it felt like an itch deep in his bones. He was far from satisfied, though. It could even be said that he was even more dissatisfied than before.


    After over an hour of it, Calista waspletely exhausted.


    Her face showed satisfaction. After cleaning up for both of them, she disregarded Kallum''s objections, slowly found her way to the couch, and, surprisingly, nned to sleep.


    "I''m so tired. I''ve done what I needed to do. Your drug effects should have worn off by now, right? I''m going to sleep first, then," she said.


    Worn off? Kallum found himself still painfully aroused. At that moment, he felt helpless and overwhelmed. It was even worse than when he had been unfulfilled.


    "Callie? Darling, I beg you. Can we do it one more time, please?" he pleaded. Why can''t I untie myself? This d*mned rope!


    "No." Calista slipped into her clothes, her back turned toward him, revealing her fair and beautiful skin. Her long, gently curled hair trailed down from the couch.


    Her nonchnt tone only intensified


    Kallum''s restless squirming. The feeling of unfulfilled desire was practically unbearable as if it were pushing him to his limits. The previous encounter, far from extinguishing his passion, had only


    fanned the mes further. He felt as


    though he were on the verge of


    being consumed by his desires.


    "Callie... Could you at least untie me?


    How am I supposed to sleep like this?" He turned to his side, gazing longingly at her retreating figure, appearing utterly pitiful. I just this dmned rope untied! After that, I can do whatever I want!


    With that in mind, his eagerness grew even more.


    reed


    Ironically, Calista had only tucked him in previously, showing no intention of doing anything more. This left him in a predicament, leaving him with no choice but to coax her.


    Calista grumbled in dissatisfaction, "No. I''mpletely exhausted. If I were to untie you, you wouldn''t spare me. You should just try to sleep like that!"


    "If you don''t untie me, I''ll suffer. I can''t sleep!"


    "If I untie you, I''m the one who suffers. Last time I let you have your way, I actually


    spent the entire next day bedridden at home, unable to get up."


    Before she went to sleep, she mumbled, "Maybe I should consider finding some sort of medicine to lower one''s libido. I can''t bear it..."

 Chapter 455 A Sleepless Night

    "Callie... You wouldn''t really do this to me, would you? Please, don''t! I won''t be able to sleep at all tonight!" Kallum uttered.


    Calista didn''t respond, which made Kallum a bit anxious.


    "Callie, I''m begging you. Can you untie me, please? I promise I won''t make you suffer. I''ll just hold you while I sleep. I absolutely won''t do anything more!" Kallum wanted to hold her and see how things would go from there.


    He waited attentively for Calista''s response, but after a while, all he heard was her steady breathing. She was truly exhausted, managing to sleep even amidst Kallum''s noise.


    At this point, Kallum was genuinely on the verge of tears. How on earth am I going to get through the night?


    He resignedlyid back, reflecting on the passion that had just transpired. His heart thumped fiercely twice, and the restrained perspiration almost soaked the entire bedsheet.


    Her body was warm and enticing, the kind that any man, once experienced, would find hard to let go of.


    It seemed as though he hadn''t truly savored it, merely taking a light taste.


    He couldn''t allow himself to dwell on it. Otherwise, he would have an erection for the rest of the night.


    Regardless of Kallum''s dissatisfaction with their previous encounter, he had at least won her over. This was indeed a great start, and he couldn''t afford to overthink it.


    Even so, when Calista woke up the next day, Kallum''s dark circles were quite noticeable. He had spent the entire night tormented by desire, and the pitiful thing was that he couldn''t even find relief for himself.


    Hence, when Calista woke up, he red at her, filled with resentment as if it had taken a physical form.


    Seeing Kallum''s listless gaze directed at her, Calista finally felt a twinge ofpassion. Thinking that Kallum wouldn''t pose any threat after an entire night had passed, she walked toward him.


    The previous night, she had actually intended to indulge him a few more times, aiming topletely rid him of the effects of the drug. However, she hadn''t anticipated just how exhausting it would be. Therefore, she really couldn''t be med.


    "Untie me."


    Kallum''s voice was husky. As he watched her approach step by step, a flicker of light suddenly shed across his dark eyes.


    Feeling a sense of danger, Calista withdrew the hand she had initially extended, awkwardly chuckling twice. "Well, the responsibility for solving a problem should fall on the person who created it. I''ll get Yulissa to sort this out for you."


    "I dare you!" He was disheveled under the covers, so he couldn''t let others see him like that.


    After some thought, Calista did indeed feel something was amiss. Slowly, she fetched a fruit knife from beside the room''s refrigerator and lodged it into the wooden headboard behind Kallum.


    "Look at you, full of energy," she said. "Go ahead and free yourself!"


    Why would I do that? Kallum hastily feigned weakness. "I''m out of strength. Don''t worry. I won''t do anything to you. Could you untie me?"


    The more he spoke in such a manner, the more unsettled Calista felt. She knew that Kallum was the type of person who wouldn''t appear so dispirited, even after days without sleep.


    "No... No. You should free yourself. I believe in you!"


    Seeing Calista attempting to slip away, even though Kallum was reluctant a thousand times over, he had no choice but to free himself.


    He had initially thought that Calista would have a hard time leaving the room. He thought that by the time he untied the ropes, he would still be able to keep her under control, giving himself a chance to thoroughly enjoy herpany.


    With such an intention in mind, Kallum suddenly quickened his pace. However, to his surprise,


    previous night to pick at thee


    Calista was faster. She used the


    pearl hair clip she had worn


    door


    lock a few times, and the door swung open. Kallum was left wide-eyed and speechless, almost forgetting to move.


    "Phew! Thankfully, I still remember how to do that." Contentedly, Calista was about to leave when Kallum hastily called out to stop her.


    "Wait! Wait for me! I''ll go out with you!"


    There was no way Calista would wait for him. She stuck out her tongue at him, chuckling lightly. "Don''t worry. I won''t let anyone else in before youe out."


    With that, she was about to close the door.


    "Calista! How dare you! You can''t just walk away!" He had been holding back all night, waiting for the day to unleash his prowess and show his mettle. If she walked away, he had no idea when he would get another chance to confront her.


    But the more he tried to stop her, the faster Calista slipped away. She shed him a flirtatious nce, then cleared her throat softly, saying with a smile "Take your time. I''m going to have breakfast now. By the way, you did a great job serving mest night. I''ll ask the kitchen to whip up some stew to nourish you."


    After that, the door was closed.


    "Calista!" Kallum cried out, but the response he received was the merciless sound


    of Calista closing the door on him. At that moment, Kallum felt disheartened,


    used, and discarded.


    In his mind, Calista was heartless and ungrateful.


    At the dining table, Wanda had been


    eagerly awaiting Calista with an excited expression. Seeing that it was already nine o''clock and Wanda had not eaten breakfast, waiting specifically for her, Calista fett embarrassed and said, "Why didn''t you eat first, Aunt Wanda? You worked so hard at the banquet yesterday. You didn''t have to wait for me."


    "It''s okay! It''s okay!" Wanda hurriedly stood up, even looking as if she wanted to support Calista. Calista was taken aback by her enthusiasm, but Wanda was blissfully unaware, unable to suppress the smile on her face.


    "You had a tough timest night. Here, this is a nourishing stew I''ve been simmering since yesterday. Ha! You must need some nourishment!" Wanda said.


    A wave of embarrassment washed over Calista. Yulissa had already hidden herself due to her fear of facing Calista. However, Wanda was different. She confidently offered to help Calista improve her health, and Calista couldn''t refuse. "W-Well, thank you, Aunt Wanda."

 Chapter 456 Wanda Is Overjoyed

    Calista looked at the lid that had been lifted in front of her. The scent of the medicated meal hit her instantly. She could discern the ingredients slightly and knew that this meal was indeed very nourishing. Thinking of something, she chuckled inexplicably.


    "Aunt Wanda, is there any more stew?" Calista asked.


    Taken aback, Wanda quickly replied, "Yes! There''s plenty! You drink first, Callie. I''ll have someone bring over another bowl!"


    "No need," Calista said with a light chuckle, sipping her stew. Her words held an ambiguous meaning. "Save it for Kallum. He hasn''t slept all night."


    Wanda was overjoyed when she heard those words.


    Wanda then opened her mouth to speak twice, but considering how sensitive Callie was, she swallowed back the words that were on the tip of her tongue. After all, I can ask Kallum about it when he wakes up! However, it''s strange. Why hasn''t Kallum woken up yet? Could it be that he''s too tired fromst night?


    Wanda''s smile grew increasingly peculiar. Noticing Calista''s gaze on her, she finally uttered with a hint of embarrassment, "Don''t worry. I''ve also prepared some stew for him, but it''s a different kind... Callie, don''t go anywhere today. Just stay at home and rest well. I''ll have someone notify the school and hospital on your behalf."


    "No need!" Calista hurriedly intervened,ughing as she added, "I won''t be going to school, but I still need to visit the hospital. I''ll freshen up quickly and be on my way."


    Concerned, Wanda asked, "Wouldn''t your body be unable to handle it?"


    Once again, Calista revealed her mysterious smile, tinged with a hint of mischief. "My body can handle it. I''m not too tired."


    Wanda furrowed her brows when she heard that. Not too tired? Did Kallum refuse Calliest night? Could it be due to Kallum''sck of ability?


    The more Wanda thought about it, the more terrified she became. She decided it would be best to question Kallum when he woke up.


    Calista pressed her lips together, holding back a smile. She said, "I should freshen up and head out. I have patients waiting for me."


    "All right... Off you go..." Wanda was deep in her own thoughts,pletely oblivious to the fact that Calista had hurriedly left the house after merely washing her face and brushing her teeth, barely touching her breakfast.


    "How did it go? Did everything work out?" Yulissa''s voice rang out.


    Seeing Calista leave, Yulissa guiltily emerged. The night before, the main characters had suddenly disappeared. When Wanda and Ss were searching for them, it was Yulissa who hesitantly revealed the truth. Unexpectedly, Wanda didn''t me her. On the contrary, she praised her enthusiastically, dering she was not cherished in vain.


    When Calista was around before, Wanda was concerned about making Calista feel ufortable. Yulissa was also a bit guilty, so she didn''t show up. Since Calista had left, Yulissa''s curiosity got the better of her, and she rushed over to ask Wanda about the situation.


    Wanda was jolted awake. "Has Callie left already? This child... She must be shy!"


    With a triumphant smile ying on her lips, Wanda held Yulissa''s hand and said contentedly, "We have you to thank for this! It seems everything worked out. I just don''t know why Kallum hasn''t gotten up yet."


    Yulissa blurted out subconsciously, "You don''t think he''spletely drained, do you?"


    ¡°Ha! What do kids know?¡± Wanda shot Yulissa a disapproving look. ¡°Kallum has been training continuously since he was a kid. How could that even be possible?"


    Yulissa stuck out her tongue, muttering under her breath, "That''s not necessarily the case..."


    As they were talking, Kallum arrived. After freeing himself from the ropes, his initial intention was to confront Calista right away. However, looking at his own disheveled appearance, he didn''t want the woman he liked to see him in such a state. In the end, he decided to change his clothes and quickly freshen up before rushing over. Still, he was a step toote.


    For some unknown reason, Yulissa felt a pang of fear in her heart upon seeing Kallum''s intimidating demeanor. Feeling guilty, she wanted to make a quick exit.


    However, she had barely taken two steps when she heard Kallum''s coldugh behind her.


    "Where do you think you''re going?" Kallum asked.


    A shiver ran down Yulissa''s spine, causing her to dutifully stand still right where she was.


    Seeing Kallum so furious, Wanda disapprovingly chided, "What''s going on? Why are you so angry this early in the morning?"


    As Wanda spoke, she revealed that subtly charming smile again. Turning to Kallum, she said, "If not for Yulissa, what would have happened to youst night? Hmph! You should be thanking her right now!"


    When Wanda said that, it bolstered Yulissa''s courage. "Exactly! Exactly! You should be thanking me! Don''t forget the thank-you gift!" Yulissa eximed.


    The moment Yulissa peeked out, Kallum''s anger red up dramatically. The frustrating memories of the previous night resurfaced, and his gaze was incredibly intense. This terrified Yulissa, who quickly hid behind Wanda after uttering those sentences.


    "Where''s the woman who was with youst night?" Kallum asked. That d*mned woman! She tied me up with a permanent knot! I''m going to kill that woman!


    "Marsha?" Yulissa hurriedly said, "That woman is an airhead and a flirt. Why bother arguing with her? She didn''t do it on purpose... It''s just that you are too charming, and she couldn''t help herself. So, could you please forgive her?"


    By the end of her speech, she had skillfully ttered Kallum.


    Kallum was seething with anger. That woman took advantage of my distraction and tied the knots


    countless times! I had to exerts


    much effort just to cut it loose m not fetting this slide! After all she caused me to lose the opportunityst night!


    "Where is she? Tell me!" Kallum demanded.


    Upon seeing that Kallum was unwilling to let Marsha off the hook, Yulissa swallowed nervously. "Please, Kallum. Marsha isn''t even eighteen yet! I''ve already scolded herst night. She knows she was wrong. You don''t have to interfere. At worst, I''ll just give up my sports car, okay?"

 Chapter 457 Wanda Is Devastated

    Kallum was about to say more, but Wanda suddenly cried out in rm, "Kallum, what happened to your hand?"


    Wanda walked over and gently cradled his wrist. The sight of the bruise was startling.


    Kallum, growing impatient, pulled back, preventing Wanda from looking any further. The way he looked at Yulissa made Yulissa shrink back a little.


    "Could it be Marsha''s doing?" Yulissa stiffenedpletely. That''s such a deep mark! Could Kallum have been tied up all night?


    This realization filled Yulissa with dread. If Kallum had been tied up all night, then nothing had been aplished the night before. No wonder he looks as if he''s about to explode with anger! It turns out he took an aphrodisiac, and due to theck of relief, he''s left in a state of unfulfilled desire! I must get out of here quickly!


    ¡°Um, Kallum..... I just remembered there''s something I forgot to do. I have to leave now. We''ll meet again if fate allows!" Yulissa said.


    She had barely taken two steps when Kallum caught the back of her clothes, pulling her back.


    "Did I give you permission to leave?" Kallum asked.


    "Um... Kallum, what exactly happened? Let''s talk it out properly..." Wanda said.


    "Don''t worry, Mom. You go upstairs first!"


    Upon seeing Kallum''s expressionless face, Wanda grew even more worried. Could Yulissa have caused some sort of troublest night?


    "B-But... Y-You haven''t had the nourishing stew I-I made for you..." Wanda stammered.


    Had she kept quiet, it would have been better. However, once she spoke, Kallum''s face turned utterly dark. Seeing him like this, Yulissa wiped her face, silently cursing her luck. It seemed like there was no escaping the disaster that was bound to happen that day.


    With great effort, Kallum said through gritted teeth, "I won''t drink it!"


    He was absolutely frustrated the entire night, and Wanda still offered to nourish his body. Naturally, he saw red.


    Upon seeing how irate Kallum was, Wanda didn''t feel it was right to say any more. Hesitantly, she moved forward. However, before doing so, she couldn''t resist uttering another sentence, unable to suppress her discontent.


    "Kallum, you must nourish your body! Drink someter, okay? Besides, you''re so angry now..." Wanda said. Could Kallum be upset because something unpleasant happened between him and Calliest night?


    After all, K Virus was incredibly potent. It was hard to guarantee that there wouldn''t be any lingering effects after recovery. With that knowledge in mind, she looked at Kallum with a gaze full of heartfelt concern.


    "Kallum, you''re so angry. Could it be that your body has-"


    "Mom!" Kallum could tell what she was thinking just by the look in her eyes, but he was in no mood to exin anything at the moment. He stiffly said, "I''m fine. Don''t overthink it!"


    "In that case... The stew..."


    Yulissa was at her wit''s end with Wanda. Instead of helping Yulissa out in her time of need, Wanda was only concerned about the stew. Kallum''s obvious discontent


    .n


    clear as day, so there was no need for any nourishment. Yulissa was so frustrated that she was on the verge of tears.


    "I''ll drink it!" At that moment, all Kallum wanted was to quickly send Wanda away.


    He was so preupied that hepletely failed to notice the utter despair that washed over Wanda''s face when she heard his words.


    It''s over. It''s truly over... Despite his tender age, Kallum has lost his prowess... Wanda was devastated.


    After Wanda ascended the stairs in a daze, Yulissa quickly straightened up and earnestly admitted her mistake.


    "Kallum, I''m guilty! I shouldn''t have tied you up just to alleviate Callie''s mental stress. I had no idea that the foolish girl, Marsha, would tie permanent knots! I''m sorry. Can you spare?" Yulissa pleaded.


    Last night, Callie indeed rxed


    when she realized I was immobilized. She even took the initiative. This strange realization somewhat quelled Kallum''s anger. Regardless of how absurd Yalissa''s n was, it had ultimately achieved its purpose. Kallum''s expression wasn''t as grim as before when he thought about it. However, the frustration from the previous night was still lodged in his heart, preventing him from fully rxing.


    When Yulissa saw that apologizing seemed to be effective, she quickly said, "Kallum! How about this? I''lle up with another idea. This time, there surely won''t be any problems, and Calista will definitely fall for it! What do you think?"


    A pang of difort flickered across Kallum''s brow when he heard Yulissa was about to offer another suggestion. The agony of the previous night was still vivid in his memory, and it took considerable restraint not to throw this troublemaker out.


    "Enough! I don''t need your suggestions! Just behave yourself!"


    With that, he tossed the brand new car keys from his pocket to her, his voice icy


    as he said, ¡°A promise is a promise. This is yours now!"


    When Yulissa received the keys, she


    was a bit stunned. She wondered


    what exactly had happened the


    previous night. If things didn''t go as nned, why would Kallum give me this incredibly expensive sports car? After all, he was tied up the entire night! Could it be that Kallum has a dormant masochistic streak?


    Before she could fullyprehend, Kallum lightly tapped her forehead and said, "Stop daydreaming! Also, you must never speak of what happenedst night!"


    Yulissa was jolted awake, and she began to giggle foolishly while holding the keys. After all, she had gotten her beloved car.


    "I''m absolutely smitten with you, Kallum! How can you be so handsome? Don''t worry! I swear I won''t breathe a word about what happenedst night. Also, don''t worry. Marsha also won''t say anything!"


    After saying that, Yulissa''s smile suddenly froze. She nced at Kallum from head to toe, and in an instant, she was struck by a realization.


    "Wait... Kallum..." Yulissa nced at the keys before she looked at Kallum. Her voice was hesitant and peculiar when she said, "You were tied up all night yesterday, and yet you''re giving me a gift... Could it be that when you were tied up, she took advantage of... Mm! Mm!"

 Chapter 458 Get Me Some More

    Before she could even finish her sentence, Kallum''s hand was already covering her mouth. As Yulissa looked up, she saw Kallum ring at her fiercely.


    "Shut up!" he demanded.


    That''s indeed the case! After being let go, Yulissa was stunned momentarily, and she suddenly burst into heartyughter.


    Yulissaughed so hard that tears were streaming down her face, and she couldn''t help but let it all out. Gosh! How could this be so hrious? The brilliant and invincible young master of the Fairchild family, seen as unreachable in the eyes of outsiders, was tied up and dominated by a woman! Haha! No... I must calm myself down. My stomach is hurting fromughing so hard!


    The more sheughed, the darker Kallum''s expression became.


    "Have you had enough ofughing?" he asked through gritted teeth.


    "Yes! Yes!" Yulissa responded as she wiped her tears. A vivid, indescribable image formed in her mind. Kallum was dominated!


    It wasn''t until Kallum was so furious that he seemed ready to have his hair stand on end that Yulissa finally forced herself to hold back herughter. Regardless of whether Kallum was dominated, he was her provider. Hence, she had to restrain herself.


    She fought hard to maintain herposure, striving to keep a serious face. However, this only resulted in her expression bing even more peculiar.


    "Kallum, don''t worry. I swear I won''t breathe a word of this matter, even unto death!" She covered her mouth, stifling augh before continuing in a serious tone, "Moreover, you must have had a great timest night. That drug is quite expensive, and it is said to enhance and amplify desires while keeping one lucid. It''s also harmless. For a man, taking it once a month won''t cause any harm. Last night..."


    Yulissa''s voice trailed off. Although he was dominated, he still had a great time, right?


    With that in mind, she sent him a flirtatious nce.


    In truth, he was on cloud nine, yet he was also bursting with frustration.


    Kallum''s originally angry expression subtly shifted because of her single sentence.


    "Did you say that drug ispletely harmless to people?" he asked.


    "Yes!" Yulissa assured enthusiastically. "That drug was originally designed to fix women''sck of sexual desire. It was prepared by the inventor for his wife. Women can take it periodically in smaller doses, and it''s even said to enhance beauty and regte hormones! Now, the inventor is sexually satisfied, so theoretically, it''s even better for women to take it. It allows them to fully bask in the nourishment of love, bing more and more beautiful."


    Suddenly, Kallum grabbed her, pulled her closer, and asked in a hushed tone, "In that case, get me some more."


    "Why?" Yulissa looked at him curiously. "Calista has already made her move. What else could you be dissatisfied with?"


    "Just get it done already, will you? Why all the unnecessary chatter?"


    The night before, Callie had intentionally yed hard to get, making him go through a tough time. He was determined to make her beg him in tears just once.


    Yulissa looked at Kallum with a puzzled expression. If Calista has already taken the initiative, it means that there''s no issue between them. So why would Kallum still need the drug? Suddenly, a shocking thought crossed her mind.


    "Kallum, you''re not getting addicted to being all tied up and drugged, wanting to go through it a few more times, are you?"


    ¡°Get lost!¡± Fuming, Kallum red at her. "If you continue with your nonsense, I''ll have your father deal with you!"


    Yulissa hastily covered her mouth,


    not daring to utter a single word. She wasn''t afraid of many things, but her stern father was an exception. If he found out she Rad asked Kallum for such an expensive


    sports car, he would definitely be furious with her.


    "Don''t worry. I''ll definitely do as you''ve asked. It''s just a few pills, right? Consider it


    done! But please, don''t tell my dad about this. He would beat me to a pulp!" Yulissa made a frightened expression.


    Kallum nced at her and snorted. "Go ahead! Keep pretending!"


    The reason Calista had to go to the hospital that day, aside from having scheduled patients, was to engage in an academic exchange at another private institution.


    Ever since thest press conference, the public had been ravenous for any news about Calista. Her whereabouts were as coveted as a celebrity poker yer''s, fetching sky-high prices.


    Despite the countless people who wished to thank or meet Calista, it was impossible. She was just too much of a homebody, always out of sight.


    She was either at Fairchild Manor or in a hospital under the protection of the Fairchild family. She didn''t give anyone the slightest opportunity to take advantage of her situation.


    This time, the reason Westridge Private Hospital was able to get Calista to go was because her mentor had called her, inviting her over.


    So, in the afternoon, Calista headed to Westridge Private Hospital. Darren Newell, the hospital director, and his team had been waiting for her arrival. The reception was akin to weing a government official for an inspection.


    Calista was unfazed. Her demeanor wasposed and generous, which made her quite likable.


    After being weed inside, Darren personally apanied her. Many experts and professors, all significantly older than Calista, followed suit. It was quite an imposing crowd.


    Due to Calista''s low profile, many people, unable to find her, had grown fond of the Fairchild family creating immense value. Therefore, whether it was Calista or the e Fairchild family, they were both in their prime. Naturally, one had to be extremely cautious when dealing with Calista.


    The lobby was bustling with peopleing and going. Many of the city''s notable figures chose to seek medical attention there rather than visit the public hospitals.


    As Calista ascended the grand spiral staircase of the hall, she listened to Darren describing his hospital. Just then, a person descending the stairs came into view. Calista''s steps faltered as she caught sight of the person''s face.


    "It''s you!" The other party recognized her first. However, due to Calista''s unique status at the moment,


    Mirabelle was rather wise, suppressing all the anger in he heart. She only uttered two words and did not continue to speak.

 Chapter 459 An Accident

    Just as Calista decided to ignore her and pass her by, Mirabelle suddenly asked in a hushed voice, "Could we step aside for a chat?"


    Someone grabbed her arm in the hallway, so Calista had no choice but to turn around. She looked at Mirabelle somewhat helplessly and replied, "I really don''t have anything to say to you."


    Darren stood off to the side, somewhat perplexed. "Ms. Stafford, who is this?"


    Before Calista could respond to him, Mirabelle had already drawn Calista''s attention back to her.


    "How could there be nothing to talk about? After all, we''ve known each other for over a decade. Or is it that you now feel too superior to exchange a few words with us ordinary folks?" Mirabelle asked.


    Upon hearing Mirabelle''s words, Darren felt a bit awkward standing off to the side. He responded with a smile, "Since Ms. Stafford has run into a familiar face, feel free to chat. I will wait for you in the conference room upstairs with the other experts."


    After speaking, he tactfully led the others away.


    Calista felt somewhat helpless. She actually hadn''t wanted to converse with Mirabelle. Yet, Mirabelle seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Now, Ms. Stafford, do you have some time to chat with me?" Mirabelle asked.


    "What do you have to say?" Calista nced at her. This former enemy of hers looked worn out then, her face pale and haggard. Though she was still dressed in white, she no longer had that graceful and innocent aura. She was more like an innocent woman who had been through hardships. There was also an indescribable gloominess between her brows.


    "What''s the rush? Oh, wait. You''re quite the sensation now. Everyone out there is practically lifting you up to the heavens, so why would you have time for a small fry like me?"


    Calista couldn''t bear her sour and prickly tone anymore. "If you''re not busy, I still have much to do, and besides..."


    Calista nced at the medical examination form in Mirabelle''s hand. "You must have just finished your check-up and are in a hurry to leave, right? I won''t hold you up."


    Calista''s casualment greatly provoked Mirabelle. Mirabelle moved the papers in her hand behind her back and responded with a coldugh, "Do you know why I came here? Let me tell you. I''m pregnant!"


    Calista was taken aback, and she immediately furrowed her brows. "What does your pregnancy have to do with me?"


    Since she was standing a step higher than Mirabelle, she looked down at her condescendingly, finding her a bit perplexing.


    A sh of hostility flickered in Mirabelle''s eyes when Calista dismissed her as if she were nothing.


    "Well, that''s because I''m carrying Kal''s child!" Mirabelle said.


    Hearing that, Calista looked at her.


    Mirabelle gave a coldugh, her eyes filled with hidden implications. "Even though you live together, do you know what Kal does when he leaves the house? You didn''t even know he was in bed with me!"


    Calista squinted her eyes. Seeing Mirabelle inexplicably reminded Calista of Quincy''s words from her previous life, right before her death. Quincy had said that Kallum was engaged to Mirabelle.


    A glint of mystery shed in Mirabelle''s eyes when she saw Calista''s concerned look. She then chuckled lightly and said, ¡°Lady, you should not set your expectations too high. You ought to understand that a man''s patience is finite. Moreover, which man doesn''t cheat on their partner? Especially when ites to a woman who is obedient toward him. Men simply relish in it!"


    Calista let out a soft chuckle. "Are you done speaking?"


    She didn''t believe a word Mirabelle said. Her upset expression earlier was merely


    due to the unpleasant memories from her previous life resurfacing.


    "You don''t believe me?¡± Mirabelle was intentionally trying to provoke her. Many people wereing and going down the spiral staircase, but none of them knew what they were talking about. They assume they were just friends having a chat.


    Mirabelle leaned in and said, "You have no idea how passionate Kal is toward me... I bet you can''t satisfy him. Otherwise, he wouldn''t be so drawn to me..."


    Mirabelle gradually found herself at a loss for words because Calista looked at her with an extremely cold gaze. The mockery hidden within Calista''s indifference made her feel like a clown.


    "I''ve got things to handle, so I can''t stick around to entertain you. You''ll have to carry on without me."


    After finishing her words, Calista was about to leave. At that moment, Mirabelle reached out to grab her arm. Without looking back, Calista shrugged off her grasp, only to hear Mirabelle let out a sharp scream.


    Calista turned around, only to see Mirabelle tumbling downward. Instinctively, she wanted to reach out and grab her, but Mirabelle didn''t extend her hand toward her.


    Everyone downstairs turned their attention in the direction of Mirabelle''s shriek. Calista had her hand extended, making it look as if she was the one who had pushed Mirabelle.


    Panic surged through the crowd instantly. Some attempted to catch her, but it was already toote. Mirabelle had tumbled all the way down from the top to the very bottom.


    Everyone had gathered around, and Mirabelle was hunched over, clutching her stomach on the ground. Thick blood was seeping out from under her, a shockingly unsettling sight.


    Mirabelle tilted her head back in


    agony, looking in the direction of Calista, and tears immediately started to stream down her face. "Calista... I-I''m already in s-suck a state of misery! Won''t you let off?"


    BUMS


    Calista? Upon hearing this well-known name, everyone turned their heads toward the top of the spiral staircase. There stood a young girl, her demeanor cold and detached. Indeed, it was Calista.


    Mirabelle''s tears continued to fall relentlessly when she saw Calista keeping mum. "This is Mr. Huntington''s first child... H-He wanted to have a shotgun wedding. Calista, y-you''re ruthless!"


    Even though Mirabelle was in extreme pain, she still gritted her teeth and spoke to everyone, word by word.


    Her words caused many to regard Calista with disapproving looks. A doctor rushed over to assist Mirabelle, who conveniently copsed weakly into the doctor''s arms.

 Chapter 460 Make Her Bleed

    Mirabelle had initially decided to have an abortion.


    The man from the Huntington family was a yboy, and they weren''t a suitable match. If it wasn''t for her family, she would never associate herself with such an individual. However, being with him was already pushing her limits. She couldn''t bring herself to bear his child. In her lifetime, she only wanted to have a child with one man, but Calista had stolen him away.


    When Mirabelle caught sight of Calista earlier, she believed it to be divine intervention. Calista had stolen her lover, and in return, she was determined to tarnish Calista''s reputation with the usation of murder, a stain that wouldst a lifetime.


    The noise around them was growing louder and louder. To prevent Calista from having the chance to argue, Mirabelle seized the opportunity before Calista could react. Clutching her stomach, Mirabelle pleaded to the young doctor who was holding her, "Please, save me... I can''t hold on much longer..."


    Upon hearing this, the doctor quickly wanted to bring her away.


    At that moment, a deep voice filled with anger resonated, drawing the attention of the confused crowd.


    "What''s going on?"


    Kallum? When Mirabelle saw Kallum, a sense of grievance involuntarily shone in her eyes.


    Initially, when Kallum was harsh toward her, even wanting to kill her, she harbored hatred for this man. However, after losing Kallum''s protection, she encountered a myriad of different men. In the end, she realized that there truly weren''t many men as upright as Kallum.


    Those men, one after another, desired nothing more than to toy with her, to possess her. Even if they had given her something of substance, they demanded even more in return.


    It was only Kallum who had persistently protected her for over a decade. Her smooth sailing life in the past years was all because of this man.


    Mirabelle turned her head to look at Kallum before shifting her gaze toward the young doctor holding her. "No! I''m not leaving! I''m not leaving!" she said to the doctor.


    "No... Your current condition requires immediate treatment!"


    "No! Let me go!"


    The young doctor had no choice but to let go. At that moment, Kallum had already brushed past Mirabelle, not even sparing her a nce as he headed toward the stairs.


    Calista pursed his lips, slowly descending the stairs. A crowd of about ten to twenty people had gathered below. After a few minutes of confusion, they gradually understood what had happened. The recent talk of the town, the Medical Genius, had pushed a pregnant woman down from the upper floor.


    The crucial point was that after she had pushed someone and caused that person to bleed, she showed no signs of panic or guilt. Her cold-bloodedness left everyone dumbfounded.


    "So this is Calista! She''s quite pretty, but her heart is rather ruthless! She pushed someone from such a height! Is she not afraid of killing someone?"


    "Look at her! The youngdy is in tears, and she doesn''t even bat an eyelid. Such a stony heart! She''s truly frightening!"


    "D*mn it! Who would have thought such a seemingly quiet and gentle woman could have such a ruthless demeanor?"


    As Calista went further down, the whispers and gossip around her became more prevalent. She furrowed her brows and was about to say something.


    However, Kallum said coldly, "In a situation where the truth is still unclear, you all are speaking recklessly. Are you trying to provoke me into suing you for defamation?"


    His assertive question silenced the murmuring crowd, their faces flushed with embarrassment. However, among them, a girl who was unafraid of authority


    couldn''t stand it any longer. Seeing Kallum publicly defending Calista, she couldn''t just sit back and watch.


    "What are you implying, Mr.


    Fairchild? We all saw her pushing


    the person down the stairs. Are you suggesting that stating this fact is nder? That woman''s child is surely lost now. She''smitted murder, and you''re saying we can''t even talk about it?" The girl was filled with righteous indignation as she picked up a few medical reports from the ground. "Look at this! The child is only two months old! Calista has crossed the line! We must call the police and have her arrested!"


    Kallum was about to retort with a cold huff, but Calista quickly stopped him by saying, "I''m fine."


    Calista then looked at Mirabelle, who was still bleeding yet refused to leave. In a serious tone, she said, "I didn''t push her. She fell on purpose. I tried to catch her, but she didn''t reach out to me. I don''t know why she did that, but she probably didn''t want the child."


    Calista''s words stirred up resentment among everyone, especially the girl with a strong sense of justice. Upon hearing those words, she shouted, "How could anyone deliberately harm their own child? If you''re trying to absolve yourself, at leaste up with a better excuse!"


    Calista calmly said, "If you want to know, just ask her doctor. It''s clearly not normal for her to have had so many check-ups in just two months. If you''re wondering why she was at the hospital, her doctor would be the one to ask."


    hatel


    Herposed words left Mirabelle a bit flustered. That doctor was her personal physician, but in this day and age, money was power. If Calist@really went to see that doctor, she feared her secret might be exposed, especially since she hadn''t had the chance to coordinate her story with the doctor yet.


    When Mirabelle heard those words, her expression grew increasingly deste. In the end, she broke down, crying uncontrobly while gazing toward Kallum.


    "Yes... I wanted to terminate this pregnancy, and I deliberately fell. This matter has nothing to do with Callie... Kal, don''t me her!"


    As Mirabelle spoke, she stumbled her way toward Kallum. Her dress was stained with blood, a sight that was dramatically intense.


    Kallum watched her, narrowing his eyes, remaining silent.


    Seeing that Kallum didn''t express the same disgust toward her as he used to, Mirabelle was overjoyed. Suddenly, the pain in her lower abdomen didn''t seem as intense. She moved closer to him, and her gaze revealed a hint of infatuation. It was an infatuation for him and for power.


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