《Revenge Of The Jilted Bride (Ophelia)》


 Jilted Bride 1

    Ophelia Sinir was dead.


    Her body weighed down with sandbags, had been tossed into the icy depths of the sea for three days, but even in death, her spirit clung on.


    It was as if her emotions had run too deep and too raw to keep her soul anchored, and grief itself had be the chain that bound her. She felt the crushing pressure of the water, the suffocating stillness that surrounded her like a silent scream.


    Suddenly, there was a ssh-a single burst breaking the dark, endless blue of the ocean. Ophelia''s soul, caught in a haze of confusion, could just make out a dark figure swimming toward her, cutting through the inky blue. The ripples in the water stirred something in her -a flicker of recognition, though her consciousness hung on the edge of oblivion.


    ''Is that Keh?'' she thought, her heart-or what was left of it-stirring. ''We''ve been divorced for three years. What could he possibly be doing here?''


    Through the blur of ocean water, Keh Sinir reached for her, his face strained with anxiety. His strong arms encircled her cold, lifeless form, pulling her to the surface with a force driven by something deeper than mere survival.


    Desperation etched in every muscle, he pressed his lips to hers, which were now swollen and pale, as he tried to breathe life back into her. His chest heaved, each breath carrying a desperate plea, a silentmand for her to return to him, to fight against the pull of death itself.


    His face was hardened and unshaven while his strong jaw was stubbled. His eyes, bloodshot and wild, brimmed with pain, though he tried to mask it with steely determination.


    He unfastened the sandbags dragging her down and then carried her to shore. With shaking hands, he knelt beside her, his voice breaking as he gave her mouth-to-mouth and pressed down on her chest in a futile attempt to restart her heart, over and over. "Ophelia, you''re not dying on me. Wake up, damn it. Wake up..." His voice cracked, frantic.


    Water droplets dripped from his soaked hair, mingling with the tears streaming down his face, falling onto Ophelia''s ghostly pale cheeks. She had never seen him so defeated, so undone.


    Beside him, his assistant''s voice quivered, her eyes reddened with unshed tears. "Mr. Keh, Miss Ophelia is... She''s gone."


    Keh''s hands froze mid-press, and he slumped forward as if the life had been sucked out of him too. His fingers, long and graceful, shook as they brushed a strand of hair from her face. He cupped her cheeks gently, as if holding something too precious, too fragile. "No, she isn''t," he whispered hoarsely by her ear, his voice barely audible, more to himself than anyone else.


    He leaned down and wrapped his arms tightly around her, pressing his cheek against her cold forehead. "Elia, you never liked me touching you, remember? You''d always push me away when I hugged you like this. So why aren''t you pushing me right now? "Please, just open your eyes and look at me, just once. I don''t care if you want me to stay away from you forever or if you want me dead. As long as you''re alive, I''ll do whatever you want. Just, please..."


    He begged like a man who had lost everything, his pleas spilling out in broken whispers, over and over, as if the sheer force of his will could bring her back.


    By the time night fell, the waves crashed rhythmically against the shore, indifferent to the tragedy ying out on the sand.


    A group of bodyguards, d in ck, arrived with two people their hands tied. They were forced to kneel before Ophelia''s lifeless form.


    Her spirit stood silently, watching from the side. One of the captives was Miles Lewis, the man she had loved so deeply. The other was Emily Hastings, the woman who had taken everything from her.


    Ophelia''s thoughts drifted back to three days ago. After being drained of her final worth by the Hastings family, she was sold to a sadistic man in exchange for their own gain.


    In her desperate flight, Ophelia wound that man. She ran to Miles for help, only to be betrayed by Miles, who she trusted. He handed her back to that monster, where she endured unimaginable torture before finally being stabbed to death-over and over-bleeding out on the cold floor.From N?velDrama.Org.


    "Elia, let me get your revenge. Alright?" Keh''s voice was soft, so soft that it barely touched the air, as if he was unaware the body he was holding was no longer alive.


    Miles'' eyes widened in terror, muffled screamsing from behind the ck tape over his mouth. He shook his head, pleading for mercy with every fiber of his being.


    Next to him, Emily''s wedding gown was soaked in blood, her body barely clinging to life, covered in gaping wounds.


    Keh lifted Ophelia''s limp hand, cing a gun in her grey, lifeless palm and aiming it at Miles. At that moment, the world around Keh faded to a hushed silence, a serene stillness that belied the chaos within him.


    Then, the deafening gunshots shattered the air, drowning out the seagulls'' cries and prating the blowing wind with a chilling finality. It was a cacophony so piercing that it seemed to slice through the very fabric of reality, reverberating in everyone''s ears like a haunting melody of despair.


    Keh fired the gun in rapid session. Each shot hit non-lethal spots with precision, but found the most excruciating parts, the agony written all over Miles'' face. He couldn''t scream. The pain was endless, unbearable-almost worse than death itself. Keh''s voice was cold now, devoid of all emotion as he rose to his feet. "Bury him."


    The implication hung heavy in the atmosphere, dark and suffocating. He meant for Miles to be buried alive, to suffer in silence, encased in earth, deprived of light and hope.


    Just then, the Hastings family came rushing to the shore, their faces pale with panic. "Emily, don''t be afraid. Mommy and Daddy are here to save you!" Emily''s father''s voice cracked as he tried to sound brave, but the tremor in his words betrayed his fear. ''How ironic,'' Ophelia thought. ''They arrived so quickly this time. Too bad they weren''t so eager to help when it was me.''


    "Let go of Emily." Emily''s two brothers, Harry and Nathan Hastings, charged forward, but the well-trained bodyguards blocked them with ease.


    Harry shouted, his voice filled with desperation, "Keh, it was Ophelia who owes you, not Emily. If you want revenge, go after her. Why kidnap Emily?"


    Nathan, on the other hand, was furious, his face red with rage. "Ophelia, you better tell Keh to let Emily go. If anything happens to her, you''re dead. I''ll make your life a living hell..."


    Even in his disheveled state, Keh radiated an even more frigid and terrifying energy that made the air around him seem thicker, more suffocating. His eyes, once full of life, now held nothing but emptiness, a hollow, deste gaze that could send chills down anyone''s spine.


    "Dead?" Kehughed, but there was no warmth, just pure, bone-chilling cold. "She''s the girl I cherished more than my life, and you people had the audacity to make her suffer like that?" His hand moved swiftly, grabbing the gun in a single, fluid motion. Without a second thought, he raised his arm.


    The crack of the gunshot echoed across the beach, and Emily''s forehead erupted in a gruesome spray of crimson. Her eyes stared nkly ahead, not even given the chance to close before life was snuffed out.


    "Emily..." The Hastings family watched in horror as their beloved Emily crumpled lifelessly to the ground.


    Heather Hastings, Ophelia''s mother, fainted instantly, her body copsing under the weight of her grief. Owen Hastings, Ophelia''s father, stood frozen, his face ashen, veins bulging from his temples, while Harry and Nathan fell to their knees, utterly shattered, their souls crushed beyond repair.


    Watching their beloved one die before them felt like the cruelest punishment imaginable. It was as if time had frozen, and the vibrant colors of their lives had turned into grey, leaving only the stark reality of tragedy.


    Yet, as Ophelia watched from her ghostly perch, her chest tightened with a searing, familiar pain.


    She should''ve been the one they were crying over, and she was the real daughter of Heather and Owen. But to them, she had been nothing more than a pawn in their twisted game, a tool to be used and discarded for profit.


    When she was stabbed, bleeding to death on the cold floor, her parents had not been there to save her. They were oblivious to her suffering, indifferent as her body was dumped into the sea and left to rot.


    Ophelia had endured twenty long years of suffering, a relentless battle against the cruel currents of life. After what felt like an eternity, she finally discovered the truth about her biological parents, a revtion that should have filled her heart with joy. However, years of longing for her family only ended up as a joke.


    A bitterugh bubbled up in her soul, tears streaming down her face as the wind carried her hollowughter away. The irony was suffocating.


    Sensing Ophelia''s unspoken sorrow, Keh gently lifted her frail, lifeless body, cradling her in his arms as if she were made of ss. He bent down and ced a soft kiss on her cold forehead, the touch as delicate as the wind itself.


    The sea breeze tousled her blood-stained white gown, the hem fluttering eerily in the wind. Her pasty arm hung limply by her side, her head rested on Keh''s shoulder, and her long hair flowed like ribbons, dancing in the wind.


    Keh''s tall, shadowy figure stood stark against the darkening sky, and with each step, he waded deeper and deeper into the cold, unforgiving ocean. "Don''t be afraid, Elia. I''ming with you." His voice was soft and calm, as if he was promising her nothing more than a walk in the park.


    Ophelia''s soul, still in the air, watched in disbelief. ''What is Keh doing? Has he lost his mind?'' she screamed silently, her voice nothing more than a whisper in the wind. ''He''s already avenged me. What more does he want? What, he wants to... die with me?" She called out to him, frantically trying to stop him, her ethereal form writhing in desperation. But there was nothing a fading spirit could do. She was powerless against the madness gripping him.


    ''Keh, you crazy fool!'' she screamed in her mind, though she knew he couldn''t hear her.


    The waves roared louder, crashing against the shore, as storm clouds gathered overhead. The full moon, once bright and silver, disappeared behind a veil of thick, ck clouds. The world darkened further as if the skies were mourning this tragic ending.


    *****


    Ophelia''s eyes snapped open to be greeted by a blinding sea of white. Her breath hitched as the sharp, sterile scent of disinfectant filled her nostrils, stinging with its acrid presence.


    ''Where am I?'' she thought in shock, her pulse quickening. ''Wasn''t I dead?''


    The soft, rhythmic beeping of machines filled the hollow silence of the hospital room. It was eerie, almost hypnotic, as if the room itself were breathing.


    She sat up, her fingers trembling as she ripped the IV from her arm. The sudden pain was sharp but insignificantpared to the whirlwind inside her mind. Frantic, she bolted from the room, her bare feet cold against the sterile tiles of the hospital floor. "Keh... Where is Keh?" As she hurried through the corridor, a familiar voice from the room across drifted through the air, drawing her like a moth to a me.


    Ophelia stopped in her tracks, her heart lurching painfully in her chest. She peered through the ss window and saw a scene that made her stomach twist-the Hastings family. There they were, all four of them huddled around Emily''s hospital bed, their faces drawn with worry and concern.


    The sight was achingly familiar. It hit her like a floodgate bursting open, releasing a torrent of forgotten memories that came crashing down, one after another.


    Desperate to ground herself, Ophelia pinched her arm hard, wincing as the pain confirmed the impossible truth. ''I''ve been... reborn?''


    She had somehow been transported back five years and now she was twenty again. It had been just over half a year since the Hastings family had brought her back into their fold. And only yesterday, Owen and Heather had thrown a party to formally acknowledge her as their daughter.


    At least, that was what she had thought. The hope that had once filled her chest crumbled the moment she arrived at the party. The Hastings family had merely used the asion to promote Emily''s uing movie. They never mentioned Ophelia-their own flesh and blood at the party.

 Jilted Bride 2

    Chapter 2 Disappointment


    Later that day, Emily approached Ophelia, her smile as bright as ever, and led her toward the pool. They hadn''t exchanged many words before it happened-Emily had "identally" slipped, reaching out to grab onto Ophelia for dear life.


    Despite her swimming skills, Ophelia had found herself at the mercy of Emily''s panicked strength. At that moment, the world had turned around Ophelia. Emily had pulled her down into the water, dragging her beneath the surface as if Ophelia were a lifeline. While it was Ophelia who had nearly drowned, it had been Emily who the family had fussed over.


    "Mom, Dad, I''m fine. Don''t worry so much, okay?" Emily''s voice chimed sweetly from the hospital bed, reassuring her family, as if she were the one barely hanging on. "Harry, Nathan, you too. The doctor said it was just a scare, nothing serious." Her words were like honey, but Ophelia could taste the bitterness in the air.


    "You silly girl, of course we''re worried. How on earth did you end up falling into the pool?" Heather, her mother, hovered over Emily with a steaming bowl of soup. She blew gently on it to make sure that it wasn''t too hot for her precious daughter.


    Ophelia stood at the door, her chest tight. That small scene, the tenderness in Heather''s gestures-it pierced her. She had once dreamed of being cared for like that by her mother.


    No matter how hard she tried, no matter how much she begged for scraps of affection, her efforts never amounted to anything. Emily, on the other hand, with just a single tear, could summon the world''s sympathy.


    It was as if right or wrong didn''t matter when it came to Emily. The moment Emily cried, the family just assumed everything was Ophelia''s fault and all their protective instincts flocked to Emily, just as they were doing now.


    "Emily, did Ophelia push you?" Nathan, Emily''s second brother, asked, his voice hard and full of certainty. "We checked the hotel''s security cameras. It was just you and her by the pool."


    "No, please don''t me Elia." Emily''s eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she feigned a look of understanding, her voice trembling just the right amount. "It was my fault. I slipped. Really."


    But the more she denied it, the more the Hastings family believed her to be the victim. The way she yed the part of the understanding, self-sacrificing sister only fueled their conviction that Ophelia was the viin in this story.


    "You''re too good for your own good. That''s why Ophelia keeps taking advantage of you, Emily," Nathan muttered with a frown, his hands balling into fists, anger radiating off him. "Ophelia''s been nothing but trouble since she came back six months ago. She''s hurt you more than once, and you still defend her?"


    Emily lowered her head, letting a tear fall on the white nket. Her voice was soft, filled with guilt. "It''s my fault. Elia''s the ture heiress of our family. I''ve been taking her ce all these years. If she resents me, I deserve it..."


    It was a well-ced confession, one that practically sealed Ophelia''s fate. It was a subtle but undeniable admission of guilt that Ophelia had indeed pushed her.


    Harry, her eldest brother, instantly leaned down and stroked Emily''s hair gently, his voice tender as heforted her. "Don''t be silly, Emily. I''ve told you before, you''ll always be our little princess. No one can take that away from you. Don''t ever let me hear you talk like that again. As for what anyone else thinks, you shouldn''t let it bother you."


    Emily nodded, and though her face was full of worry, there was a flicker of satisfaction in her eyes that vanished just as quickly as it appeared. "But what about Elia? Is she okay?" she asked, her voice dripping with false concern.


    "Don''t worry about that outsider. She''s still breathing. Focus on yourself, alright? Seeing you like this is enough to break my heart." Harry''s voice was dismissive, brushing Ophelia''s existence aside like it were nothing. The word "outsider" settled in Ophelia''s mind, bitter as poison. Her lips curled into a cold, ironic smile. That was exactly what she was in their eyes-an outsider.


    No matter how hard she had tried to fit in, no matter how much she had longed for the family she had been deprived of for twenty years, she had never been one of them in herst life as well as this one.


    But this time, things were going to be different. This time, she wasn''t going to bend or break for them. The pain, the humiliation she had endured-it was alling back. But not for her. It was their turn to taste it.


    From the corner of the room, Owen, who had remained quiet until now, let out a heavy sigh. "Don''t worry, Emily. I''ll make sure justice is served," he said, his voice filled with quiet authority.


    *****


    The Hastings family stood as one of the elite powerhouses in Denex, with Sungate Entertainment shining as their crowning jewel.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Their residence Hastings Vi, an opulent estate, radiates grandeur with every de of grass and meticulously curated nt speaking volumes of the wealth and prestige of its owners. The intricately carved front door, a bespoke marvel, could easily fetch a staggering sum, worth tens of thousands of dors. Ophelia walked from the gate to the mansion on foot, her steps slow and steady, but the walk took nearly twenty minutes. Hastings Vi was that sprawling.


    When she finally stepped into the main hall, she was greeted with the grand sight-ornate chandeliers hanging from vaulted ceilings, the crystal alone worth hundreds of thousands of dors. In the middle of the living room sat the Hastings family, looking every bit as elite as the home they upied. Nathan, lounging on the sofa, was the first to notice her. He looked at her with a mixture of boredom and annoyance, crossing his legs with an air of superiority. "You''re finally back. Took you long enough. Why are you sote? We''ve all been waiting for you. Guess you think you''re pretty special to make Mom and Dad wait for you."


    Ophelia raised her icy gaze to meet his, her once doe-like eyes now glinting with an edge of defiance. For a second, they sharpened into something dangerous, something Nathan had never seen before.


    From the moment she had been brought back to this family, it seemed Nathan had taken on the role of her biggest critic, his disdain palpable.


    ''If this were the old me,'' she thought, I''d probably have apologized immediately when he scolded me. Bowed my head, swallowed my pride, and taken the me.''


    For twenty years, she''d lived in a slum, never once allowing herself to be walked over. Yet, after returning to this family, she had bent over backward to strip away every piece of herself just to fit in. Ironically, in doing so, she had left them believing her to be a pushover. ''That was my mistake. It won''t happen again,'' she vowed silently.


    "Why am Ite?" Her voice was icy but calm, devoid of emotion. "You should be asking yourselves that. While you all were leaving the hospital, I was still inside, dealing with my discharge papers. It''s not easy to catch a cab outside that ce and it took me forever to finally get one. So yeah, you had to wait. My bad."


    Her tone was so even that it left the room silent for a second. But it was Heather who broke it, her face reddening with anger. "Are you ming us now, Elia? Since the day you returned, tell me, when have we ever mistreated you?


    "I''ve done my best to make sure you were taken care of. Just because I couldn''t attend to you this one time, youe at me with this attitude?"


    Opheliaughed softly, a humorless sound that didn''t reach her eyes. Her smile was strikingly beautiful, yet it held a chilling detachment that was unmistakable. "You''re saying you''ve never mistreated me? Since I got here, I''ve been living in a cramped maid''s room barely big enough to turn around in. Emily''s bathroom is bigger than my entire space. That''s what you call not mistreating me?"


    Heather''s throat tightened, but before she could respond, Nathan was already on his feet, his finger pointing straight at Ophelia''s face. "You should be grateful. We took you out of the gutter, didn''t we? That little maid''s room is a pcepared to the shanty boat you used to live on in that slum."


    Ophelia''s eyes narrowed, her lips curling into a smirk. "So what, I should be on my knees in gratitude? And tell me, am I or am I not the true heiress of the Hastings family?"


    "You..." Nathan''s face flushed with rage, his hand clenched into a fist, ready to explode.


    Before he could get the words out, Emily piped up, her eyes wide and shimmering with fake guilt. "Elia, I''m so sorry. It''s all my fault. I''ll move out of my room right away, and I''ll give you half of my allowance. You can buy whatever you want, really. It''s me who hasn''t been thoughtful enough. Please don''t me Mom and Dad."


    Her voice cracked just enough, the edges of her eyes pink, brimming with the kind of tears that never failed to earn her sympathy. Heather''s heart broke on the spot.


    "Elia, you''re the older sister. Can''t you be the bigger person for once? Emily''s lived in that room all her life. Does this really need to be such a big deal?" Heather''s voice dripped with frustration, her maternal instincts ring up as she gazed at her beloved daughter. Nathan sneered from the side, his voice dripping with contempt. "Mom, stop wasting your breath. She''s got no heart. She''s just a street rat. She''s picked up every bad habit from those lowlifes in the slum. Why else would she push Emily into the pool on purpose?" "Enough." Owen''s voice cut through the rising tension like a knife, cold and authoritative. He hadn''t said a word since Ophelia walked in, but his face had been tense, frown lines cutting deep into his features.


    His eyes, full of disappointment, turned to Ophelia. "Elia, I know Emily''s not our biological daughter, but she''s been with us for twenty years. She was there when you couldn''t be, by our side, taking care of your mother and me. You don''t have to thank her, but pushing her into the pool? How could you?"


    Ophelia felt a bitterugh bubble up in her throat. ''That is my father. ming me like I chose to miss out twenty years of my life. It wasn''t my choice to be swapped at birth, but now I''m supposed to thank the person who stole my life from me?'' "Dad, it wasn''t Elia. I fell in by ident. Please don''t me Elia for this." Emily''s voice wavered, her doe-eyed act on full disy.


    Owen sighed deeply, torn between the daughter he had raised with care for two decades-Emily, the obedient and understanding girl-and the one he felt had not changed at all, the stubborn Ophelia who showed no sign of remorse. "Look at your sister. Even now, she''s defending you. And yet, you can''t even apologize. I always thought you were a reasonable child, Elia, but you''ve disappointed us," he scolded.


    The word "disappointed" felt like a bitter echo in Ophelia''s mind. But it wasn''t just him feeling it. They had all disappointed her first.


    She knew what wasing and understood the purpose behind Owen''s carefully chosen words. She could hear the thinly veiled ultimatum in his voice, the expectation looming behind his every word.

 Jilted Bride 3

    Chapter 3 Severing Ties


    Owen sat for a moment, his expression softening, as if preparing for what he was about to say. "I know life hasn''t been easy for you out there," he began, his voice heavy with faux sympathy. "We owe you for those lost years.


    "To make it right, your mother and I have found a good family for you. They may not be a prestigious lineage, but they can ensure you afortable life."


    His tone was dismissive and condescending, like he were offering charity to a beggar.


    In herst life, when Owen had said those words, Ophelia had begged and pleaded. She hadn''t wanted to be forced into a marriage when she''d been reunited with her family.


    But now, she only wanted to cut herself free from this so-called "family" and never look back.


    "Dad, are you seriously going to marry Ophelia off to the owner of Rosewood Manor?" The voice came from the doorway, a youthful but indignant tone. It was Scott Hastings, Owen''s youngest son. He was a freshman in high school and the only person in the house who treated Ophelia like a family member.


    "You little brat, stay out of this," Owen snapped, his face darkening with irritation. He didn''t take kindly to being challenged, least of all by his teenage son.


    Scott wasn''t having it, though. "I''m not a kid anymore. Is she really your daughter? I''ve heard about that old man living in Rosewood Manor. He''s not just old. He''s mentally unstable and disabled. You''re sending her there to live as a widow in all but name."


    "Shut your mouth." Owen''s voice thundered through the room, amand that silenced the air around them. In this house, Owen''s authority wasw, and no one dared defy him.


    Nathan strolled up behind Scott and threw an arm around his younger brother''s neck, shushing him mockingly. "Hush, Scott. Mom and Dad are talking. You don''t get a say in this."


    He shot Ophelia a smug, sideways nce, thinking, ''Good riddance. She''s finally gonna get lost. This chick from the slums is the reason why I''ve been theughing stock among my rich friends for six whole months. They all think I might catch some disease from her.'' Scott tried to fight back and say something, but Nathan was much stronger, dragging the boy up the stairs, his hand mped over Scott''s mouth. Despite his protests, Scott was still just a teenager and couldn''tpete with Nathan''s muscr build.


    Now that Scott had pointed out the ugly, ring truth, Owen decided to drop the pretense. Emily, the daughter he had raised with such care and attention, was meant for a grand marriage alliance with the prestigious Lewis family.


    As for the marriage to Rosewood Manor''s owner, it was an old arrangement left behind by Owen''s father, Lennon Hastings. At first, Owen had dismissed it as unimportant. But now, with the estate offering 30 million dors to secure a bride, Owen wasn''t about to turn that kind of money down.


    "This marriage is part of your grandfather''s legacy," Owen said, his tone firm. "Emily''s health isn''t suited for it, and as our biological daughter, it''s only right that you marry the owner of Rosewood Manor. If you refuse-"Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    "I''ll marry him."Ophelia''s words were quick and sharp, leaving no room for argument.


    Owen blinked, caught off guard. He hadn''t expected her to agree so easily. In fact, he''d been ready to wield the ultimate threat to cut her off from the family if she refused. But now, with her suddenpliance, he swallowed back the words, unsure of what to say next. A grin slowly spread across his face, trying to mask his surprise. "I knew you''d be reasonable. Our family won''t forget this, Ophelia. If you have any requests, just ask. I''ll do my best to fulfill them."


    His sudden shift to warmth made her stomach turn. She wasn''t used to his smiles-they were alwaysced with hidden motives. "I only have one request," she said, her voice steady but with a cold edge that even Owen couldn''t ignore.


    "Go ahead," he replied, still smiling.


    Ophelia''s lips curved into something resembling a smile, but it didn''t reach her eyes. "My identity papers. They were never corrected after my return."


    "Oh, that''s all?" Owen chuckled, relieved. "I''ll have someone take care of it on Monday. Don''t worry." He reached out, intending to ce a reassuring hand on her shoulder, but Ophelia stepped back before he could touch her.


    Her expression hardened, all traces of a smile vanishing. "There''s no need. As of today, I''m formally cutting ties with the Hastings family. From this moment on, I, Ophelia, have nothing to do with any of you."


    Oddly enough, as those words left her lips, Ophelia felt a sharp stab of pain in her heart. Yet, it didn''t matter anymore; she believed that true strength came from a ce of indifference.


    Owen''s expression darkened, the brief flicker of softness vanishing as his brows knit together in anger. "What do you mean by that?" His voice had a dangerous edge to it now.


    "Exactly what I said," Ophelia replied calmly, her gaze unwavering.


    Nathan, always the opportunist, sauntered down the stairs, his lips curling into a sneer. "You sure about this, Ophelia? You''re really going to give up all the wealth andfort thates with being part of this family?" His tone dripped with disbelief. He didn''t think she had it in her.


    ''If she was really so tough, why did shee crawling back in the first ce?'' he snorted inwardly.


    "Elia, don''t be so stubborn," Harry added, his forehead creased with concern, though Ophelia knew better than to believe his act. "What will you even do without us? Where can you go?" He looked genuinely worried, but she saw through him now.


    In herst life, Ophelia had thought Harry truly cared for her. It wasn''t until muchter that she realized his concern was never about her; it was about avoiding any embarrassment to the Hastings family. He was just like Owen-always putting the family''s image and interests first, and her needsst.


    "I managed just fine without the Hastings family for twenty years," she said, her voice steady andposed. Her gaze shifted toward Owen. "And after that disaster of a reunion partyst night, no one outside the family even knows I''m your biological daughter. No need for any more public statements. It''s cleaner this way."


    Owen exhaled heavily, irritation shing across his face, but he quickly masked it.


    "Fine, if that''s your decision, I won''t force you. We''ve done our part to make up for you thesest six months. We''ve set you up to livefortably for the rest of your life. As parents, we''ve done all we can." His words were less for her and more for his own conscience, an attempt to wash his hands of any guilt.


    Ophelia didn''t respond. Instead, she turned on her heel and headed back to the maid''s room. Two minutester, she reappeared, a faded ck backpack slung over one shoulder. She was dressed exactly as she had been when she first arrived six months ago-light blue jeans, a white button-up shirt, her hair pulled high into a ponytail.


    But for her, one lifetime had passed since then.


    She walked through the halls of Hastings Vi onest time, not with any nostalgia or sentimentality. She was done with this family. All she wanted now was Keh.


    Owen waved his hand dismissively toward the family driver, Corey Young. "Aaron, take her to Rosewood Manor." With that, he headed upstairs.


    Emily blinked in confusion, stunned at how quickly Ophelia was kicked out of the family. She had expected more of a fight, but it seemed Ophelia was slipping out of their lives so easily.


    Her eyes met Ophelia''s as she stood at the doorway, and for a moment, an uneasy chill ran down her spine.


    Ophelia''s eyes were mesmerizing, with a haunting beauty that always seemed to captivate. The small mole under the corner of her eye only added to her allure. Something in that look made Emily''s stomach twist. ''What is she nning? Is this some sort of trap?'' Outside, as Ophelia made her way to the car, she could still hear Nathan''s voice from inside the house.


    Nathan was yelling to the maid, "Finally, the ce i clean again. L, make something special for dinner tonight. Emily''s juste home from the hospital, so we''ve got to treat her right. And for goodness, clean out that maid''s room. That poor dog of Emily''s had nowhere to sleep because of well, you know who. Make sure you disinfect it. Twice."


    ''Comparing Miss Ophelia to the family''s dog? Disgraceful.'' Even Aaron Graves, the driver, seemed to bristle at the audacity of Nathan''s words. It was painfully obvious they thought Ophelia wasn''t even worth as much as Emily''s dog. "Let''s go, Aaron." Ophelia''s tone was light, as if the words hadn''t even touched her.


    She wasn''t done with the Hastings family-not by a long shot. She would make sure they''d pay for what they''d done.


    She knew that even though she walked away and married the owner of Rosewood Manor, they''d changed their minds when they found out who she was really marrying, just like they had done in herst life.


    But she wasn''t in a hurry. She would take revenge for every humiliation she''d suffered in her past life.


    *****


    Night fell over Denex, the city slowlying to life under the glow of neon lights. As the car sped through the streets toward Rosewood Manor, Ophelia''s heart raced.


    The scenery outside the window blurred past her, both familiar and foreign, as if she were caught between two worlds-her past and her future.


    The drive felt like it stretched on forever as they approached Rosewood Manor. Atst, they arrived at the foot of a modern vi perched halfway up a hill, its sleek lines and minimalist design stark against the natural backdrop.


    Her heart thumped in her chest as the car rolled to a stop. There was a nervous flutter in her stomach, an odd mixture of excitement and fear. Seeing Keh again, after everything, after two lifetimes, stirred something deep inside her.


    Aaron exchanged a few words with Liam Dixon, Rosewood Manor''s butler, before turning back to Ophelia. With a respectful nod, he handed her the backpack. "Miss Ophelia, this is where I leave you."


    "Thanks, Aaron," she said, epting the bag. Without a nce back, she followed Liam inside, her head held high.


    This was her new beginning. And this time, she wasn''t going to let anyone stand in her way.

 Jilted Bride 4

    Chapter 4 Who Gave You The Right


    Liam cast a nce at Ophelia, his curiosity piqued. ''Wasn''t she supposed to be some poor girl who grew up in the slums for the first twenty years of her life?'' he thought.


    But there she stood, a confident smile lighting up her face-no trace of fear, no defensiveness. If anything, she had this effortless grace about her, something wild yet undeniably elegant. With her striking features and radiant eyes, Liam couldn''t help but think she and Keh made quite the pair.


    He led her up to a spacious guest room on the second floor. "Miss Hastings-"


    "My name is Ophelia Spencer, actually. Just Ophelia, please," she corrected him gently but firmly.


    Liam smiled, bowing his head slightly in respect. "Miss Ophelia, of course. You''ll be staying in this room for now. Mr. Keh rarely stays here."Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    With a nod of recognition, she entered the room alone. She''d almost forgotten-during herst life, she hadn''t even met Keh until a month after her arrival.


    The room was massive, with a walk-in closet five timesrger than the room she''d stayed at Hastings Vi.


    She moved toward the ornate floor-to-ceiling windows, gazing at the sea of city lights that shimmered like stars below. In the courtyard, clusters of roses swayed gently in the evening breeze, their soft pink petals catching the dim lights. The scene was almost too romantic to be real, a stark contrast to the coldness she felt inside.


    Thest time she had looked out on this view, she''d been a different woman-hopeful, naive. But not this time. Not in this life.


    Ophelia wouldn''t waste her second chance. She wouldn''t let Keh down this time.


    After a long, hot shower, she sank into the oversized bathtub, letting the heat rx her muscles as she began to map out the n for the next five years. So much had happened, so much was yet toe.


    It had been too long since she had felt thefort of such a luxurious bath. Slowly, her mind began to drift, and she fell asleep right there in the tub, the warmth lulling her into a deep slumber.


    The water cooled over time, and Ophelia''s dream shifted to something colder, darker-like being submerged in the icy depths of the ocean.


    She struggled to breathe, fighting against the pressure, her chest tightening with the thinning air.


    And then, through the haze, a familiar figure emerged a tall silhouette against the dark, moving toward her with deliberate, calm strides. The edges of the vision sharpened, and then she saw him. It was Keh. His chiseled features were as striking as ever, and his eyes, always intense, locked onto her with an unreadable expression.


    The sensation of being lifted from the cold washed over her as she was pulled into the warmth of strong arms.


    *****


    When Ophelia''s eyes fluttered open, the morning sunlight was streaming in through the windows, bright and cheerful. She was lying in the middle of a plush bed, the soft fabric of a white bathrobe enveloping her like a gentle cloud. Her confusion was instant. ''How did I get back to bed?''


    Before she could piece things together, arge woman, one of the maids, entered the room, knocking politely before asking, "Miss Ophelia, you''re awake. You fell asleep in the tubst night, and I carried you back to bed." "Oh... thank you," Ophelia muttered, still groggy and trying to process.


    "No problem at all, Miss Ophelia. Breakfast is ready whenever you are," the maid responded.


    Not dwelling too much onst night, Ophelia nced at the time, shrugged off the strangeness, and headed downstairs for breakfast.


    A full week had passed at Rosewood Manor and she still hadn''t seen Keh once.


    One evening, feeling restless, she decided to run along the winding paths that encircled the vi. The rhythmic sound of her feet hitting the pavement cleared her mind as she dialed a number on her phone.


    "Sell the things I left with you. Split it 70-30 and transfer the money to my ount," she said simply before hanging up. She needed money, and she needed it fast.


    By the time she returned, sweaty and ready for dinner, a cluster of maids were standing in the kitchen, whispering amongst themselves.


    Ophelia''s gaze swept over them coolly, silencing the group in an instant. Only one maid, a girl with round eyes, had the audacity to roll her eyes at Ophelia, her voice dripping with disdain as she muttered, "What''s there to be scared of? She''s just here to y wife for show. "Mr. Keh hasn''t even bothered to visit her. In the old days, she wouldn''t even be considered a mistress, let alone anything important. We outrank her."


    Ophelia''s sharp ears caught every word, but she barely reacted. The maid who spoke was Karen Phillips. Ophelia recognized her. She was sour and connivingzy whenever Liam wasn''t around, often lounging in the living room and watching TV as if she owned the ce. "Is this what I''m supposed to eat?" Ophelia''s voice was icy as she gestured toward the sad array of dishes on the dining table-cold, limp vegetables and a te of pasta that had clearly been sitting out for hours.


    The pasta had swollen to an unnatural size, like bloated worms, with a film of something suspiciously like spit glistening on top. The sight was enough to make her stomach turn.


    "You work out a lot, so I figured you''d appreciate something light," Karen smirked, not even attempting to hide her snark.


    Ophelia''s lips curved into a smile so pure and innocent that it could fool anyone whenbined with her angelic face.


    In herst life, she had yed the fool, constantly running to Hastings Vi like a loyal dog, barely spending any time at Rosewood Manor. She had never realized just how petty and dull the servants here were behind her back.


    She crooked her finger at Karen, the smirk never leaving her face.


    Karen,pletely unguarded, folded her arms and strutted over, utterly oblivious to the dangerous glint that shed in Ophelia''s eyes. "What''s the matter? Don''t like the food? From what I heard, you grew up in the slums. You should be thankful that you''ve got anything to eat at all, let alonein about-" Before Karen could finish her sentence, a shrill scream echoed through the dining room.


    In a swift motion, Ophelia grabbed Karen by the hair and mmed her face down into the te of pasta in front of her. "Let me teach you something from the slums." Ophelia''s voice was calm as she pressed harder with unexpected strength. "It''s called survival of the fittest."


    Caught off guard, Karen panicked and her body iled helplessly, cutlery ttering to the floor as she gasped and sputtered, "Let me go. Who the hell do you think you are? Mr. Keh only married you as a joke, you''re nothing but a... Help, someone, please..." Pale and wide-eyed, the other maids stood frozen, too frightened to even consider helping.


    Ophelia lifted Karen by the cor and threw her across the room with surprising strength. Shended with a loud thud, crashing into the dining chairs.


    "If he married me," Ophelia said icily, stepping forward with regal grace, "then that makes me thedy of this manor. You would do well to remember that."


    Karen, now covered in sauce, spaghetti stuck to her face and hair, struggled topose herself, coughing violently.


    After a few seconds, she pointed a shaky finger at Ophelia, her voice hoarse and furious. "You''re delusional. You''re just a ything to Mr. Keh. Has he evene to see you since you arrived here ages ago? Lady of the manor? Don''t make meugh." As her words fell, the entire room plunged into silence.


    Karen suddenly realized something and her expression shifted, the color draining from her face as her eyes slowly darted toward the entrance. There, sitting in his wheelchair, was Keh.


    His devastatingly handsome face was framed by those gorgeous, alluring eyes, his gaze sharp as a de, exuding an innate arrogance. His lips curved slightly into a smirk though it carried a dangerous edge. He wore a ck shirt, the top two buttons left casually undone, revealing the chiseled lines of his corbone, a striking contrast to the ruthless expression on his face.


    With Keh''s arrival, the entire estate seemed to hold its breath.


    Karen''s legs trembled and her eyes widened in shock as she realized the gravity of the situation, praying silently that Keh hadn''t overheard her. But the cold sweat running down her back told her otherwise.


    Ophelia''s eyes reddened at the sight of Keh. Even now, confined to a wheelchair, he sat with his back straight, never allowing himself to appear weak. But in herst life, he had knelt by her side, pleading for her to wake up again and again, his pride shattered. Karen, realizing Ophelia hadn''t immediately spoken up, crawled toward Keh, her voice trembling as she pleaded, "Mr. Keh... it''s the food. Miss Ophelia didn''t like it, so she took it out on us. We''re just the servants, Mr. Keh, we''re human too..." Keh''s piercing gaze slid from Ophelia to Karen. His voice, low and velvety, rumbled like a cello, the final syble lingering seductively in the air. "Who gave you the right to act out in my house? Hmm?"


    Karen''s heart leapt at his words, and a glimmer of hope surged in her chest. She thought to herself, ''I knew it. She''s just a pawn Keh brought here. She''s nothing but a ything to him. There''s no way he''d let her act like she owns the ce.''

 Jilted Bride 5

    Karen sniffled, her expression pitiful as she turned her teary eyes towards Keh. "Mr. Keh, Miss Ophelia treats us maids like we weren''t even human. Whenever something displeases her, she takes it out on us. You must help us" Keh sat in his wheelchair like a king on a throne, the smooth twist of his long fingers ying with the ring on his pinky. There was something about him that was oppressive, almost suffocating to look at.


    From the moment he entered, his sharp gaze was glued to Ophelia. She stood there, her nose a bit red, looking strangely vulnerable. He thought to himself. Wasn''t she just fierce a moment ago? Is she scared now


    He chuckled darkly. "You''ve got me to back you up, so why bother getting your hands dirty yourself?"


    The words left his mouth, and Karen froze, her face draining of color. She blinked,pletely dumbfounded, as if she had misheard him.


    Keh''s voice was casual, like he was discussing the weather, but the words sent a chill through Karen''s spine. "Cut off her tongue and feed it to the fish in the pond."


    "Mr. Keh. no... I was wrong. I''m so sorry. Please, have mercy on me." Karen stammered, panic creeping into her voice.


    Without hesitation. Mark, Keh''s right-hand man, shot a nce at the bodyguards. They immediately grabbed Karen by the arms and began to drag her away.


    "Mr. Keh. please... Karen''s screams grew fainter until they disappeared entirely. The other servants stood trembling, pale as ghosts, their eyes wide in terror.


    Keh''s gaze remained cold and imperious. "Anyone else?" he asked, his tone leaving no room for argument, like an overprotective father about to stand up for his child


    Ophelia nced at the remaining maids, her stare like that of a predator eyeing its prey. As soon as they caught her gaze, the young maids'' legs gave out, and they dropped to their knees, trembling uncontrobly: "Miss Ophelia, this is all a huge misunderstanding. It was all Karen. We didn''t do anything.....


    "I don''t need this many people around." Ophelia said calmly, her gaze directed at Mark. "Let them all go


    Mark raised an eyebrow and looked to Keh for confirmation. Keh gave the smallest nod, his expression unreadable. but it was enough.


    "As you wish," Mark replied and took the hint, slipping out of the room quietly.


    Now alone, the dining room felt much more intimate, the silence between Ophelia and Keh charged with unspoken tension. Ophelia''s eyes lingered on Keh, her thoughts muddled. She had no idea when he had fallen in love with her in herst life, to the point of dying for her.


    Yet this version of Keh, so cold and ruthless, had made her uneasy back then. She had feared him so much in the past. But not anymore. Now, she only wanted to make things right with him, no matter what it took


    Keh''s voice broke through her thoughts, low and subtle. "So willing to marry a cripple?"


    Ophelia''s gaze flicked to his legs. Her earlier sadness faded, and she scoffed inwardly, Cripple? What a joke: She remembered all too well the nights from herst life when he had held her down, ravaging her with a strength that didn''t match the sickly image he presented now.


    If she hadn''t lived through it once already, she might''ve actually believed it.


    "What if I told you I didn''t marry willingly? Would you let me go then?" she asked, her voice soft but tinged with defiance


    "Not a chance," he shot back without missing a beat, his answering almost before she finished her question


    Exactly what I thought. Ophelia mused, a wry smile tugging at her lips, mischievous like a fox that had just outsmarted a hunter "Well then, let me introduce myself properly. Im Ophelia Spencer Age twenty. No bad habits. Recently cut ties with the Hastings family Currently unattached"Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    A brief silence followed before Keh''s deep, gravelly voice responded, "Keh Sinir. Age twenty-five. Moody. No boundaries Possessive extremely possessive


    At the mention of "possessive", his gaze darkened, and the heat in his eyes was enough to set the air on fire. It was as if he could devour her whole just by looking at her.


    They locked eyes for what felt like an eternity, the tension between them thick enough to slice with a knife. Finally, Keh''s lips quirked into a slow, indulgent smile, as though amused by her audacity.


    In all of Heloria, no one except her dared to hold his gaze like she did.


    "Are y


    you not afraid of me?" Keh asked, his toneced with curiosity.


    The name Keh Sinir wasn''t just any name. In Heloria, it was synonymous with power, wealth, and danger. Everyone. knew what it meant to cross paths with him.


    Though Ophelia hadn''t known much about him in herst life, it was onlyter, through Emily, that she learned the full extent of Keh''s power.


    He wasn''t just the head of Heloria''srgest conglomerate; he controlled nearly seventy percent of the country''s economy, dominatingnd, sea, and air transport. A flick of his wrist could send shockwaves through the entire nation.


    It was a name that sent most people running in fear. But now, as Ophelia stared back at him, she found she wasn''t afraid


    Ophelia arched a brow, her gaze sharp yet yful as she teased, "Should I be afraid of you? Her lips curved into a daring smirk. "You''re my man. What''s there to fear?"


    Her longshes framed a pair of beautiful, vibrant eyes, flickering with both curiosity and mischief. If Keh was expecting anything less from her, he was sorely mistaken-she knew exactly how to y this game.


    Keh''s eyes narrowed slightly, one palm upturned, as if waiting for her next move. His gaze bore into her, a silent challenge lingering in the air between them.


    Ophelia hesitated briefly before cing her delicate hand in his, feeling the rough warmth of his skin.


    For a fleeting moment, his grip tightened-like he could snap her bones if he wanted-before releasing her, leaving her hand tingling in its wake.


    "So soft. Keh''s voice held a teasing note, his lips curling into a sly smile.


    ''Pervert, Ophelia mused inwardly, rolling her eyes. She had almost forgotten just how twisted Keh could be.


    She yanked her hand back and took a step away, pouting slightly as a hint of defiance danced on her gorgeous face. "Mr.. Sinir," she began, her voice sweet yet challenging, "are you going to stay in that wheelchair forever in front of me Keh''s expression darkened, his eyes narrowing as they bore into her.


    "That day you carried me out of the bathtub," she continued with a knowing grin. "you were walking perfectly fine. In fact, you were pretty quick on your feet,"


    Her smile widened as she thought, ''Did he really think sending a maid the next day would fool me? She could still remember that same fresh, woodsy scent clinging to him that she had noticed when he carried her-unmistakably Keh


    Slowly, Keh rose from the wheelchair, towering over her like a looming shadow. Six feet three tall, he cast a heavy presence, the air around them thick with his dominance. His sudden movement confirmed what she already knew-he''d been faking it. He had returned the other day only to check if she was the one he had been looking for all along


    He tilted her chin up with two fingers, his voice icy as he murmured. "Aren''t you afraid I''ll cut out that sharp little tongue of


    yours too?


    "Oh, I''m afraid." Ophelia''s eyes gleamed with a dangerous confidence. But I''m even more afraid you''d miss it too much Her gaze, defiant and unwavering, locked onto his, the faint mole beneath her eye only adding to the fierce beauty of her expression. She was testing him, prodding at hus limits, daring him to go further,


    Keh''s hand slid from her chin to the back of her neck, drawing her closer. She looked so innocent, like a little doe, yet there was something wild and untamed lurking behind those big, doe-like eyes. Her lips-so pink and soft-parted slightly as she spoke, revealing white teeth that could tempt any man to sin


    Chapher


    "Sharp tongue," Keh remarked before swooping down, capturing her lips in a kiss thai was anything but gentle. He kissed like he wanted to im her soul-no toom for breath, no space for resistance. The faint taste of tobo lingered on his lips as he pressed harder, devouring herpletely.


    When he finally pulled away, her lips were thushed, and his thumb brushed against the redness he''d caused. "Mind" he murmured, clearly satisfied. "I guess I couldn''t."


    The atmosphere between them shifted, thick with tension.


    Mt. Keh. Mark''s hesitant voice broke through the charged moment, but he instantly regretted it when Keh shot him a deathly re


    Mark quickly averted his eyes in embarrassment, muttering, "Mr. Keh, your grandfather''s making


    e moves?


    Ophelia couldn''t see Kemeth''s face from this angle, but she could feel the sudden rise and fall of his chest. Before she could process it, hisrge handnded on her head, his fingers threading through her hair.


    Keh''s voice was low, dangerously smooth, "Little one, you better behave. As long as you do, you can have whatever you want. No matter how much trouble you stir up, I''ll clean it up for you. But if you don''t..." His tone turned cold, the weight of his words sinking into the room like ice.


    He lifted her chin again, forcing her to meet his gaze, his eyes hard and merciless. "I''ll personally break both your legs. Even if all that''s left of you is a lifeless body, it''ll still bear my name. Understand?"


    Ophelia stared right back at him, her voice steady as she retorted, "Same goes for you. You''re mine. Only mine."


    For a split second, Keh''s hardened expression softened into something almost like amusement. He chuckled, low and indulgent, ruling her hair like she was a pet. "That''s my girl, he thought with pride. ''She has guts. I''ll give her that.'' Keh''s touch was rough as he patted her head, but not without a trace of affection. He was far from gentle, yet somehow, it


    suited him.


    Momentster, he settled back into his wheelchair, pulling out a sleek ck card from his pocket and holding it out to her. "As my girl, you shouldn''t have to settle for anything less."


    Ophelia nced at her attire and, without a second thought, epted the card with a casual smirk. For her, there was no need for modesty now. She''d be hitting up the finest mall in Denex tomorrow.

 Jilted Bride 6

    luxurious mall, her outfit stuck out like a sore thumb.


    Keh had Ophelia''s clothes picked out to be simple and understated, very much like Emily''s style. But Ophelia wasn''t a fan. Over the past few days, she''d been wearing the clothes she brought herself-faded jeans and a slightly yellowish white shirt. In the middle of the Still, she walked into one of the high-end stores with her head held high, not caring one bit what anyone thought.


    Inside, the sales assistants were busy attending to different customers, while the store manager, a woman named Serena Chapman, stood idle.


    "Hello, wee in, Serena greeted politely, though her eyes couldn''t hide the flicker of disdain when she took in Ophelia''s worn-out look. She kind of looked like a broke high schooler. But Serena''s smile remained perfectly professional.


    "Miss, the discount section is over here, and the fitting rooms are right this way. Feel free to try whatever you like in there," she said, turning her back and signaling for a new sales assistant to take over.


    The new assistant, Aria Williamson, was all sunshine and enthusiasm as she gave Ophelia a quick once-over. "Wow, Miss. you''ve got such an amazing figure and a perfect tan-you''re like a natural model. Everything would look fabulous on you. Let me grab something from ourtest runway collection that''ll fit you perfectly


    With that, Aria dashed off and returned with a forest green gown. With a subtle embroidered hem, it was simple yet elegant. perfectlyplementing Ophelia''s rxed style.


    But this kind of forest green wasn''t a color just anyone could pull off.


    As Aria was about to show it to Ophelia, Serena stepped in with a smirk. "Are you crazy? That gown costs six grand. You think she can afford that? Show her the sale items and move her along.


    Ophelia, unfazed, asked coolly, "What clothes are on sale?"


    Serena''s fake smile widened as she thought, ''I knew it


    "Oh, over here. And these too," Aria, still in her element, chimed in. "This section hasst season''s collection. Two pieces are 15% off, and three are 40% off.


    Ophelia remained expressionless. "I''ll take everything that''s not on sale. Get me all of them in an 5*


    "You want to try them on first? It makes sense, clothes should feelfortable when worn Aria suggested, still smiling, while Serena''s face hardened in frustration and impatience.


    Serena, however, snapped, "Sorry, Miss, but our store operates on a membership basis. You have to be a member to try on the new arrivals." Her tone sounded as if Ophelia was going to make them dirty by trying them on.


    Ophelia didn''t bother arguing. "No need to try them. Pack these up. And this row too," she said casually, motioning toward an entire rack of clothing


    The store fell into a stunned silence. The customers who were trying on clothes and the other staff stopped what they were doing, staring in disbelief. The cheapest item on that rack cost thousands, yet Ophelia spoke as if she were buying groceries in a supermarket. "Excuse me? You want all of them?" Aria''s e


    eyes


    were wide, sure she''d misheard.


    Ophelia didn''t exin. She simply pulled out a sleek ck card and handed it over. "S size"


    Aria was too shocked to react, but Serena''s eyes lit up as if she''d just won the lottery. She practically lunged forward. her smile so wide that it nearly reached her ears.


    That wasn''t just any card-it was a bank card with unlimited spending worldwide. There were less than ten of these in the world. Even if Ophelia''s was a supplementary card, it was still a rare sight.


    "Of course, Miss We''ll have everything packed up for your right away, Serena said eagerly, reaching out for the card. But just as she was about to take it. Ophelia pulled it back slightly and handed it directly to Aria instead.


    Td like her to ring me up, Ophelia sand coolly, her gazending on the gown Serena had dismissed earlier. "And I take that dress to the fitting room, please


    Serena''s face flushed red with embarrassment. She forced an awkward smile but couldn''t hide her frustration. She knew the couldn''t afford to offend Ophelia and had no choice but to watch helplessly as the massive sale slipped right through her fingers. were Nathan


    As Ophelia stepped into the fitting room, the door barely closed before another pair entered the boutique. They were and Emily.


    "Nathan, I heard this store just got in a runway piece from Fashion Week. I really want to try it, Emily said, her voice sugary sweet, yet with a hint of entitlement.


    "Go ahead, try it on. If you like it, I''ll buy it for you. No need to hold back, Nathan replied, his tone casual but carrying an air of indulgence. Dressed in a garish pink suit that emphasized his tanned skin, Nathan was clearly used to getting what he wanted. "Besides, you''ve got that charity auction with Dad tonight. You need to look stunning


    "You''re the best," Emily beamed, her waves of glossy hair tumbling over her shoulders, perfectly paired with the elegant white gown she wore. She turned to the saleswoman with a dazzling smile. "Could you please bring me that runway piece?"


    "I''m terribly sorry, miss," the saleswoman said with a polite bow of her head. "But someone is already trying that gown on, and it''s the only one we have in stock."


    Emily''s expression faltered slightly, a puff of air escaping her lips as she tried to hide her disappointment. Still, she quicklyposed herself and pointed to another gown. "Alright, then I''ll try this one."


    I''m


    The saleswoman, however, looked even more ufortable. Trn afraid that''s also been sold, as well as these new arrivals in this section. You''re wee to take a look at our sale items." Emily''s practiced smile slipped, her face paling in disbelief. Sale items? Did she really just tell me to look at sale items?


    She bit her lip, anger bubbling under the surface, but her demure persona held her back fromshing out in public. Instead, she lowered her head and then shot Nathan a helpless, wounded look, the perfect picture of a mistreated princess, Nathan wasn''t one to tolerate seeing his precious sister upset. His voice hardened as he turned to the saleswoman. "What kind of joke is this? She wants to try on a gown, and you tell her that she can''t? Do you think we can''t afford it?"


    The saleswoman stammered, trying to diffuse the situation, "I apologize, sir. If you''d like, I can take down your information. and we''ll notify you as soon as we get new stock-


    "No. She''s trying something on today," Nathan cut in, his stance rigid with entitlement.


    Just then, the door to the fitting room creaked open, drawing every eye in the room. Everyone in the shop fell silent. All eyes turned to the figure, Ophelia, standing in front of the mirror, an epitome of grace and beauty,manding the room''s attention without uttering a single word. Dressed in that coveted runway gown, her presence was maic. The deep forest green fabric hugged her silhouette like it had been custom-made for her, enhancing her wless skin and highlighting her perfect curves.


    Under the soft lights, her elegant neck shimmered like a swan''s, and her cold, refined beauty seemed almost predatory- impossible to ignore, a force of nature.


    Aria, who was about to pack up all the other clothes Ophelia had purchased, stood rooted to the spot for a long while. momentarily speechless.


    When she finally managed to speak, her voice was full of awe. I told you, that gown looks incredible on you. You wear it even better than the models did," she gasped, quickly speeding up her packing with newfound enthusiasm.


    Emily, too, was struck by Ophelia''s beauty, knowing full well that she wouldn''t have pulled off the same effect. But when her eyes focused on who was wearing the gown, her expression instantly soured. She quickly masked the jealousy that burned in her eyes and asked softly, trying to sound casual. "Nathan, isn''t that.... Elia""


    Nathan''s initial look of admiration twisted into disdain the moment he recognized her. "Ophelia? What the hell are you doing here! You think you belong in a ce like this?"


    Ophelia met his gaze through the mirror, her expression indifferent, distant. The sight of Nathan in his ridiculously tacky pink suit didn''t faze her in the slightestFrom N?velDrama.Org.


    She turned to Serena, the manager. Ill be wearing this out"


    5:42 PM


    Serena, eager to please, hurried to remove the tag. But before she could, Nathan stormed forward, his face twisted in a mix of arrogance and fury after he gotpletely ignored..


    He frowned. "Hold on a second. Ophelia, what do you think this is? A Tree-for-all? You think you can just try on whatever you want? Or do you expect our family to foot the bill for your little shopping spree?"

 Jilted Bride 7

    Serena was just about to mention that Ophelia had already paid for the gown when Family stepped forward and longan live arm through Nathan''s, ying the role of the ever-so-considerate sider "Nathan, Elia does look pretty good in that gown, doesn''t she? Maybe we should do her a favor and pay for it Emily suggested, her smile warm, but her eyes glinting with barely concealed condescension Nathan scoffed, "Emily, you''re way too kind for your own good. Have you forgotten how she treated you before? And didor she make it crystal clear the other day that she''s got nothing to do with our family anymore! Why would she need our help toa pay for anything?" Emily put on a face of concern, frowning as if genuinely worried. "But Nathan, that''s a runway piere she''s wearing Ire really


    In expensive." She sounded so sympathetic, as though Ophelia''s financial state was of deep concern to her, Yet her words rang loud and clear-Ophelia couldn''t possibly afford it.


    Nathan''s lips twisted into a smirk. "Well, that''s her problem, buit it? 11 she''s dumile enough to splurge on something way out of her league, that''s her embarrassment, not ours. His voice then turned mocking Ophelia, if you beg me rarely, maybe I''ll consider buying you something from the clearance rack


    At his words, Serena shot him a look, frowning at the abunnlity of his words. Meanwhile, the sales associates parking Ophelia''s purchases couldn''t help but stifle their giggles, ncing at each other with knowing smiles.


    Emily, standing nearby, felt the atmosphere shift but couldn''t quite put her finger on it. Something in the room had changed But before she could make sense of it, Ophelia, without a word, took the scissors from Serena''s hand. In one smooth motion. she snipped the tag from the dress with an audible stap.


    At the counter, Aria finished ringing up the purchase and respectfully handed over the ck card, addressing Ophelia with deferential tone. "Miss, your purchases are all packed. If you''d like, we can have them delivered directly to your home. Just leave us your address" Nathan''s eyes widened as he looked toward the clothing racks, which had been stripped bare. The counter was covered in an impressive pile of shopping bags. His jaw dropped as his mind tried to process the imposable. These are all hers? No way. Where the hell did she get the money?


    Emily stood frozen, a mixture of shock and disbelief coloring her face. ''Did the saleswoman mean all those new arrivals were bought by Ophelia? That''s impossible.


    As Ophelia calmly provided her address and took back her card, she cast Nathan and Emily a look that was dripping with disdain-like she was watching a pair of pathetic clowns.


    Nathan, unable to contain his anger any longer, barked. "Ophelia, where did you get that kind of money?"


    Ophelia''s expression remained indifferent, barely acknowledging his outburst. "And what business is that of yours? Then, turning to Emily with a smirk, she added, "Sorry, but I''ve bought all the new arrivals. Why don''t you pick something from the sale rack? I''ll even put it on my tab"


    The room fell into a stunned silence. Nathan and Emily''s faces twisted in humiliation. The carefully curated personas they had maintained were cracking


    "You scheming little witch, Nathan spat, his fists clenching as his face reddened. "You already paid for it, and you still put on that little act and pretended you couldn''t afford it, just to make me look like a fool? That''s what this is, right?"


    Ophelia''s eyes glimmered with cold amusement. "Did I say I couldn''t afford it? I''ve been letting you two entertain yourselves this whole time. Why should I interrupt your little performance?"


    With a casual shrug, Ophelia reached for one of the bags, pulled out a gown, and let it drop unceremoniously to the floor in front of Emily with a dramatic swish, "Consider this your tip for the show"


    Emily''s face flushed red with rage and humiliation, her lists trembling by her sides. Never in her life had she been so publicly. shamed. She squeezed her fists tighter, her nails digging into her palms, but after a deep breath, she loosened her grip and lifted her gaze, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Elix, Sorry. I. I didn''t mean to


    Bat Ophelia had already turned away, dismissing her without a second nce. She strode toward the exit, as if the whole encounter hadn''t been worth a moment of her time.


    5:47 PM c Chapter 7


    Nathan, seeing Emily on the verge of tears, felt his protective instincts kick in. Furious and fueled by a wounded ego, he stormed after Ophelia, his voice booming. "Ophelia, you stop right there and apologize to Emily"


    Ophelia slowed her steps, just enough to throw a sharp, mocking look over her shoulder. "And what if I don''t?"


    Nathan''s rage boiled over. "Then you''re asking for a beating," he growled, raising his fist as he charged toward her, ready to


    teach her a lesson.


    But Ophelia barely moved, her expression still calm as ever. With a swift tilt of her head, Nathan''s punch barely grazed past her, stirring a few strands of her hair.


    Before he knew what hit him, Ophelia seized his wrist, yanked him forward, and mmed her elbow into his stomach with a solid thud.


    "Ugh-" Nathan groaned, copsing to his knees, clutching his stomach in pain.


    Emily deliberately lingered inside the store, hoping to catch a glimpse of Ophelia getting beaten up by Nathan. However, when she finally stepped out, her heart skipped a beat as she witnessed the exact opposite-Nathan, hunched over in pain, clutching his jaw. "Nathan, are you okay?" Emily rushed to his side, her voiceced with false concern.


    Nathan, one hand still on the ground, spat through gritted teeth, "Ophelia, you dared hit me? You better watch your back." Ophelia, unbothered by his threats, gave him a mocking smile. "Sure, I''ll be waiting," she replied casually before turning back. toward the mall, her steps unhurried as if nothing had happened.


    As Emily helped Nathan to his feet, her eyes darkened with suspicion. "Nathan, could Elia''s money being from that old man at Rosewood Manor?"


    The implication in her words hung thick in the air, as the insinuation of what a young girl might exchange with an older man was all too clear.


    Nathan''s face twisted in disgust. "Shameless. She''s nothing but an embarrassment to our family."


    When Ophelia strolled through the mall, passers-by turned their heads wherever she went. Her air of effortless grace drew the attention of passers-by, men and women alike. Despite wearing nothing more than a simple, unadorned dress, her beauty seemed ethereal, otherworldly even, as though she were far removed from the ordinary


    World


    Just then, her phone buzzed, and seeing the familiar number, her lips curved into a deeper smile. It was Keh.


    "It''s me," his rich, baritone voice echoed through the line, instantly wiping away the lingering irritation from her earlier encounter.


    "Mr. Sinir," Ophelia teased lightly, "I take it you saw the credit card bill? I forgot to mention that I''m a bit of a shopaholic."


    Keh''s warmughter filled her ear, a sound so full of indulgence that it sent a pleasant warmth through her. "Oh, Ophelia. if only you


    knew no matter how fast you spend, you''ll never keep up with how fast I make money. I''ll pick you up at Rosewood Manor at eight." "Alright," Ophelia agreed without hesitation.


    "You''re not even curious about where we''re going?" His voice carried a hint of amusement.


    "No need to ask," she replied smoothly. "Wherever you go, I''ll follow-as long as you don''t n on selling me off."


    Keh chuckled, clearly pleased by her yful answer. "I could never," he said, his voice dropping to a deep, velvety murmur, the kind that brushed against her heart like a feather, soft and electrifying at the same time.


    After the call ended, Ophelia continued her spree, sweeping through two more stores before finally heading back to Rosewood


    Manor


    The maids there, having learned their lesson from the previous night''s incident, no longer dared to show her any disrespect. Liam, Keh''s trusted aide, had even brought over two older, more experienced servants from Sinir Manor. The moment 522 PM


    theyid eyes on Ophelia, they couldn''t help but think she was a perfect match for Keh, and they were more than eager to serve her with care.


    At precisely eight o''clock, Keh returned to pick her up. Ophelia, still wearing the forest green dress she had donned earlier in the day, had her soft, wavy hair loosely tied with a simple white ribbon.


    Her angelic, unadorned face only enhanced her ethereal beauty, but it was her eyes-cool, detached, yet with a subtle allure- that gave her an irresistible, dangerous charm. The juxtaposition of innocence and temptation was maic.


    Mark, the driver, couldn''t help but blink in surprise when he saw her. She looked nothing like someone from the slums; every inch of her exuded elegance.


    He was deep in thought when he noticed the warning re Keh shot his way, sharp as a knife. Swallowing his thoughts, Mark quickly opened the door for her, lowering his gaze in respect.


    The moment Ophelia sat down, Keh reached out, his fingers immediatelytching onto hers, pulling her closer with a firm but gentle tug. Off bnce, she stumbled into him, her hand still caught in his.


    "You went out shopping in this?" His voice was low, almost a growl, as his eyes darkened, fixating on the delicate curve of her exposed corbones and the subtle ridge of her shoulder des.From N?velDrama.Org.


    A heavy tension filled the car, the air thick with a possessive energy that seemed to radiate off him.


    "Yeah. What''s wrong with it?" Ophelia asked, genuinely confused, lifting her head only to meet Keh''s intense, brooding gaze. Then it clicked-his possessiveness knew no bounds.


    Is he really going to control even what I wear?'' she thought, half amused, half incredulous,


    Keh''s grip on her hand tightened slightly. "I don''t care what you wear, but every single outfit has to be seen by me first. Understood?" His voice was cold andmanding, leaving no room for argument. There was something almost childishly unreasonable in his tone, though it was cloaked in his usual domineering way.


    Feeling the slight ache from how tightly he held her hand. Ophelia quickly nodded. "Understood."


    When he was finally satisfied with her answer, Keh''s tense expression rxed, though his hand never loosened its grip on


    hers.


    0

 Jilted Bride 8

    Meanwhile, at Hastings Vi, Emily stood gracefully in the grand hallway, dressed in an elegant champagne-colored gown that shimunered under the soft lights. Her long hair cascaded over her shoulders, perfectly styled, while her makeup was wless, entuating her natural beauty.


    "Emily, you look absolutely stunning tonight, Heather couldn''t help but gasp, pride gleaming in her eyes. "You''re sure to be the center of attention."


    Family shed a sweet, charming smile, the kind that made people feel instantly endeared to her.


    "Well, it''s gettingte. We should be on our way," Owen, looking dapper in a tailored suit, said with a confident grin. He was practically glowing in anticipation of the night ahead.


    Tonight''s charity g was hosted by the Carnegie family, one of the top three prestigious families in Denex. The guest list was a who''s who of the elite-top-tier families, business moguls, and all the power yers one would expect at such a high- society event. At the entrance to the grand Evend Hotel, the most luxurious establishment in the city, the scene was pure luxury.


    Limousines and high-end cars lined the red carpet, which stretched to the street, withyers of security ensuring exclusivity. Every few yards, a patrol car was stationed, enforcing the strictest of measures. Reporters stood by eagerly, cameras in hand. craning their necks to catch a glimpse of the attendees as they arrived.


    This wasn''t just a charity event-it was a spectacle. A-list local celebrities, dressed as if they were attending an international film festival, walked the red carpet,peting for attention with their morous attire.


    Miles stepped out of his sleek, silver Maybach, looking effortlessly sophisticated in a light Brioni bespoke suit. Tall and poised, his presence immediately caught the attention of onlookers.


    "Miles, Emily called out, carefully lifting her gown as she rushed over from a nearby car, her heels clicking softly on the pavement. She looped her arm through his, her eyes shining with adoration.


    Miles offered a warm smile, his gaze soft and doting as he looked at her.


    The connection between the two was undeniable, and it didn''t escape Owen''s notice. The older man couldn''t help but beam with satisfaction, imagining the endless possibilities a union between the Hastings and Lewis families could bring. After all, the Lewis family had deep roots, and Miles, the heir to Lewis Group, was a golden catch.


    As Owen approached, he chuckled, "I see why you were so impatient in the car earlier."


    "Good evening. Mr. Hastings," Miles greeted him politely, his tone respectful yet calm. Then, he turned to Emily with a glint in his eye. "I''ve heard that there''s a stunning blue diamond ne up for auction tonight. How about I win it for you?"


    Emily put on an act of modesty, her lips curling into a smile. "Oh, there''s no need for that, really. It''d be such a waste." Though she said that, inside she was practically giddy with excitement.


    After a few more pleasantries, the group made their way into the dazzling hotel ballroom, where the charity auction would soon begin.


    The room was packed with the creme de cr¨¨me of society, the air buzzing with chatter. The auction kicked off quickly, with Emily and Miles seated in the third row, while behind them sat other wealthy socialites Emily was familiar with.


    The auctioneer, apanied by elegant hostesses, took to the stage to showcase the evening''s lots. The initial items were valuable antiques, worth tens of thousands of dors-merely appetizers for the night''s big-ticket offerings. Then came the masterpieces, authentic paintings by renowned artists, whose prices rose with each bid.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    In the genteel world of high society, even the bidding was a game of status, a way of shining without being obvious, of knowing exactly when to stop and let others take the stage.


    "And now,dies and gentlemen, our ninth item of the night... The auctioneer paused for dramatic effect. "A breathtaking white silk evening gown with gold thread embroidery from La Reverie."


    A spotlight illuminated the stage, revealing the gown in all its radiant splendor. The delicate whitece and subtle shimmer of the gold threads made the dress look like something out of a dream. Chapter 8


    The moment it made its grand entrance, a collective gasp swept through the crowd of socialites seated below.


    "Have you heard that? La Reverie is a brand that made its debut internationally just a couple of years ago, and they only release une design each year," someone whispered.


    "Indeed. There are only two La Reverie gowns on the market, another added. "One belongs to the royal family of Yosk and the other is often seen on the First Lady of Heloria. She wears it to all her most important events."


    A girl gasped. "I love this gown. The designer is so mysterious, but her works are revered by top fashion critics worldwide.


    Miles overheard the murmurs and turned to Emily with a smile. "Do you like it, Emily?"


    Emily thought to herself. What girl wouldn''t? But she still feigned indifference. "It''s beautiful, but let''s leave it to the otherdies tonight. I''m not one for fighting over things."


    Miles admired herposed, almost ethereal demeanor-the way she always seemed above the fray, unaffected by the pettiness of the world. That was rare in the cutthroat circles of the elite.


    "Don''t worry," Miles whispered, his tone gentle yet resolute, "I''ll win it for you."


    His words, though soft, carried through the air, catching the attention of several people around them. The Lewis family may not have been one of the top three families in Denex, but they were not far behind. Hearing Miles say this, others quietly lowered their bidding paddles, realizing it was a lost cause. A faint flicker of disappointment passed over their faces.


    "Wow, Emily, you''re so lucky. Mr. Lewis is so good to you, a nearby socialite gushed, her voice full of envy as she and the other heiresses threw admiring nces at Emily.


    The auctioneer''s voice rang out, clear and authoritative. "The starting bid for this gold-threaded evening gown is three hundred thousand dors,


    Before the room even had time to breathe, a paddle shot up. Five hundred thousand dors, someone called.


    Another voice followed quickly. "Seven hundred thousand dors."


    "Nine hundred thousand dors, some otherdy said.


    The air buzzed with excitement as the bids kept climbing, faster and faster.


    Ophelia, sitting quietly on a private balcony on the second floor-where the view was nothing short of perfect-had her eyes locked on this dazzling gown. It shimunered under the spotlight, and though her expression was calm, Keh somehow thought she liked it. A knowing smirk yed at the corner of his lips as he signaled to Mark with a subtle nod


    The numbers continued to skyrocket.


    Finally, Miles, confident and smug, raised his paddle. "Three million dors."


    Three million dors, the auctioneer echoed, almost impressed. "Three million going once, three million going twice..."


    But just before the gavel dropped, the auctioneer paused, his eyes drifting toward the balcony on the second floor. "Seven million dors, someone said in a deep voice.


    A collective gasp swept across the room as everyone turned toward the mysterious bidder in the private box, but no one could see who it was. All they could feel was the ripple of power in the air.


    Miles'' hand, still raised, hovered in mid-air, his expression darkening. That bid-seven million dors-wasn''t just an offer, it was a shut-down, a nopromise move that left no room for him to retaliate.


    The crowd had heard him boast about buying the gown for Emily. Now, he had no choice but to drop out. If the bidder above him was determined to have it, continuing to bid would only paint him as the fool of the evening.


    His thoughts churned angrily. ''Seven million dors for a gown? Are they insane?"


    Emily, always quick to maintain appearances,id a gentle hand on his arm. "It''s alright, Miles," she said sweetly, though her smile didn''t quite reach her eyes. "I appreciate the thought, but honestly, it wasn''t really my style anyway." She tried to sound as if she was letting it go with grace, but inside, her heart sank.


    A part of her still hoped Miles would keep bidding, especially after so many had heard Miles promise it to her.


    Miles exhaled, reheves at the out she gave him. "Alright then," he said, trying to save face as best he could.


    sn


    Seven million dors going once, seven million going twice, sold for seven million dors." The auctioneer''s gavel came down with a salty that made the room buzz with whispers.


    Meanwhile, on the private balcony, Ophelia blinked, realizing what had just happened. Her eyes flickered between Mark and Keh, suspicion blooming.


    "Don''t you like it?" Keh asked, his tone casually teasing.


    Ophelia''s eyes widened as she pointed at herself in disbelief. "You bought it... for me?"


    Keh''s smirk deepened, his dark eyes glinting. "Who else? You think I''m wearing that thing?"


    His words hit her like a joke she hadn''t been prepared for. The idea of Keh in an evening gown shed through her mind, absurd and almost Laughable


    But beneath that amusement was a deeper realization-this was the gown she had designed herself, and now, inexplicably, it wasing back to her


    In herst life, shed poured her heart into it, a birthday gift for Emily, an offering to gain favor with her parents and brothers. But in this life, she wasn''t interested in pandering to them and squandering her masterpiece in such a way. She had made a few changes and had it sold off, thinking it would never cross her path again. Little did she expect it to reappear at this auction, let alone be bought by Keh at such a staggering price.


    The irony wasn''t lost on her. Keh had paid a fortune for something she''d created, and now both the dress and the money were hers. It was almost too good to be true and she felt that she ought to thank Keh for this generous turn of events.


    "Thank you," she said, though the words felt inadequate,


    Keh raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by her polite response. "That''s it? Not very heartfelt, is it? He leaned back, legs crossed with easy grace, the gleam of his polished shoes catching the light. His fingers idly twirled the silver ring on his pinky. "You know, there are plenty of ways a woman can properly thank a man."


    His voice dripped with suggestion, soft yet heavy with meaning, leaving her heart racing.

 Jilted Bride 9

    As Ophelia locked eyes with Keh, her heart raced, pounding like a wild drum. She was nowhere near ready to express her gratitude" in the way he hinted at. Clearing her throat softly, she dodged the question and turned her gaze back to the stage below.


    The auctioneer''s voice boomed with excitement. "And now, for the final piece of the evening. This one is bound to steal every woman''s heart-the crowning jewel of tonight''s event."


    As he spoke, the lights dimmed, and the stage revealed a ss disy case slowly rising. Inside it was a dazzling ne, its diamonds glittering against the backdrop of ck velvet.


    The ''Moon & Star'' ne, the auctioneer announced, his voice dripping with anticipation. "Crafted from 108 wless diamonds, it features a crescent moon centerpiece made from the rarest vivid blue diamond, a gemstone so scarce, it''s been certified as one of the finest specimens in existence. A treasure this valuable is nearly impossible to find on the open market


    From her seal, Emily''s eyes lit up like fireworks. "Miles, is that the blue diamond ne you promised to get me? Her voice was filled with breathless excitement, her gaze locked on the sparkling prize.


    "Girl, you''re so lucky. Mr. Lewis ispletely head over heels for you, someone gushed nearby.


    The murmurs of admiration swirled around them, and Emily drank it all in, her heart swelling with pride. The way she looked at Miles now-so soft, so full of admiration-could melt even the coldest hearts.


    "Talk is cheap," someone else muttered under their breath, the jealousy clear in her voice. "He couldn''t even win the bid for that cheap dress earlier.


    Emily wasn''t about to let the snide remarks slide. I told him not to bother with the dress, she retorted, keeping her voice sweet but firm. "But this ne? Miles has promised me this one." She smiled at him, subtly reminding him of his pledge while defending him. After all, it wasn''t just a ne anymore-it was a matter of pride.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Plus, when it came to value, the ne undeniably outweighed the gown..


    Miles, sensing the weight of expectations, nodded. I got this," he murmured, already preparing to raise his paddle.


    "Starting bid is four million dors, the auctioneer dered.


    Miles wasted no time. "Five million dors. Miles was the first to raise his paddle, his voice steady and confident. Emily could hardly contain her excitement, practically vibrating with glee. The bids kept rolling in.


    "Six million dors, someone else called out.


    "Seven million, another voice chimed in, the bidding intensifying


    Each new bid sent waves of excitement through the crowd, and Emily''s heart soared higher with each jump. Even Owen. seated nearby, was basking in the glow of his daughter''s triumph. Compliments flowed like fine wine.


    "Mr. Hastings, you''re one lucky man. Having a daughter as charming as Emily, it''s no wonder Mr. Lewis is willing to go to such lengths, someone remarked, his voice dripping with admiration.


    ph


    Oh, you tter me," Owen responded modestly, but inside, he was glowing with pride. Whether the final bid was won or lost, the Hastings family was winning in reputation.


    The ne, though valued at around seven million dors, had already climbed to over sixteen million. The entire ballroom was buzzing. Everyone was certain that the ne would soon be imed by Miles for twenty million. But then. the inevitable happened. Thirty million dors. The voice came from the private box on the second floor, the same one that had thrown a wrench in the bidding earlier. The sudden leap in price caught everyone off guard.


    The bids now had increased by no more than two million dors at a time, but one jumped significantly, leaving everyone


    stunned


    It was the same bold tactic as before, making it impossible for others to continue bidding without looking like fools


    In settings like this, everyone wanted to show off, but nobody wanted to be the sucker paying far more than the item''s wi


    Chequer


    Miles face fished with frustration Is someone trying to humiliate me? He couldn''t shake the feeling of being targeted Emily''s expectant gaze weighed on him, but as much as he wanted to keep his promise, this seemed to be a battle he couldn''t win


    Gripping his paddle, he raised it again, though the fire had left his voice. "Thirty-five million dors


    Before the auctioneer could finish the call, the voice from the second floor came again "Fifty million dors"


    The air in the room sernied to freeze. The price had now skyrocketed to more than five times the ne''s actual worth Everyone was staring at the box, wondering who would be foolish enough to pay such a steep price. Keh, lounging in the box on the second floor, smirked down at Ophelia, his eyes never leaving her. How do you n to thank me this time?" he asked, his voice dripping with yful arrogance.


    Ophelia''s face was a study in mixed emotions. Part of her couldn''t believe how reckless Keh was being She pondered, ''Is he seriously this extravagant? But sering Miles''ce turn leet red with embarrassment filled her with an odd sense of satisfaction.


    Mark, Keh''s right-hand man, stood nearby, quietly observing. He knew Keh was capable of being impulsive, but to see him splurge this extravagantly, all for the sake of impressing a woman, still shocked Mark. It was wildly out of character for Keh,


    In the end, Miles'' band froze on his paddle. He couldn''t bid any higher.


    The auctioneer called out, "Fifty million dors, going once, going twice-sold. The final item of the evening was officially won by the mysterious bidder from the second floor. The crowd buzzed with spection, while Keh sit back, azy gra tugging at his lips. After the auction wrapped up, the crowd made their way to the banquet hall Given the prestigious standing of the Lewis family, no one dared say anything out loud, but the tension lingered.


    Emily, however, was utterly disappointed in Miles. The promises he''d made earlier to give her these luxurious items had fallen t. Not a single bid had gone through for them, leaving her humiliated in front of all these wealthy debutantes.


    "I knew it," one of the girls scoffed, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Anyone can talk big, but actions speak louder, don''t they?"


    Another chimed in, a little more sympathetic, "Come on, give him a break. It''s clear that whoever was in that private box upstairs wasn''t about to let anyone outbid them. Who''s willing to throw away money just to end up as the fool?"


    "Who do you think it was in that private box anyway?" another asked, her voice curious.


    "No clue. They seemed pretty mysterious, someone else replied.


    Emily''s gaze drifted towards the balcony on the second floor, her mind swirling with thoughts


    Meanwhile, in thevishly decorated private box on the second floor, Keh loungedfortably, as if the weight of the world had never touched him. The room around him was bathed in the soft glow of chandelier light, casting delicate patterns across the rich velvet curtains and the gleaming mahogany furniture. Gold ents gleamed on the walls, every detail a testament to extravagance and wealth.


    "Mr. Keh, Mr. Fiy Carnegie from Carnegie Group wishes to meet you, Mark informed him, standing by his side.


    But Keh said nothing. His piercing gaze was locked on Ophelia, who was busy devouring thest of the dessertsid out in the room. "Enjoying yourself?" he asked, his toneced with amusement.


    Ophelia licked her upper lip, looking slightly embarrassed. She had managed to eat all the treats in the box by herself during the auction, leaving the tes bare. Yet her eyes still lingered on the trays of meticulously crafted pastries being served downstairs,


    Growing up in the slums, hardship was a closepanion, and her love of sweets was a small, innocent indulgence she never


    "Maybe you should take care of business first, Ophelia suggested, "and I''ll go check out the party, and we can head home togetherter?


    5:43 PM ? ?


    Home?" Keh paused, the word catching him off guard. Something in his usually hardened heart softened as he gazed at her. The corners of his lips twitched into a barely perceptible smile that was tinted with affection, and he nodded. "Alright." Ophelia had barely left the room when the Carnegie family''s patriarch, Fiy Carnegie, personally arrived to deliver the two items Keh had won at the nuction.


    "Mr. Sinir, it''s such an honor to have you grace us with your presence today. My family is truly humbled," Fiy gushed.ying it on thick.


    "You''re overthinking it, Keh responded coldly. His stunning eyes, once so warm with Ophelia, had now turned icy,pletely devoid of emotion.


    Fiy didn''t seem to mind the frosty reception and kept up his ttering tone, smiling as if Keh hadn''t just brushed him.


    Outside the box, Emily overheard the title "Mr. Sinir, and her mind raced.


    The name Sinir wasn''t exactlymon, and she figured someone important enough to warrant such attention from the Carnegie family had to be extraordinary. She quickly pieced it together.


    Keh Sinir, the head of Heloria''s most powerful financial empire. The same Keh who had forced his older brother out of power a year ago, and who had been rumored to have lost the use of his legs after a failed assassination attempt months earlier. ''No wonder he could throw down that kind of money without blinking to buy those two things, Emily thought, her mind buzzing with curiosity. What kind of man is he?''


    Just as she pondered, the door to the box opened, and Fiy stepped out. Emily quickly ducked into the shadows, peeking through a crack in the door. There he was-Keh Sinir himself, sitting in regal stillness.


    Her heart skipped a beat, thudding wildly in her chest.


    Keh''s presence wasmanding, his sharp gaze exuding power. Even from his profile, he was more handsome than any man she''d ever met, all of them put together. He had an aura of cold authority that was irresistibly maic.


    Suddenly, Keh stood up from the couch, straightened his cor with one smooth motion, and then, to Emily''s shock, he sat back down-this time in a wheelchair.


    Emily blinked in disbelief. ''Wait a minute, wasn''t Keh supposed to be paralyzed? How did he just... stand up?'' she wondered, suspicion gnawing at her mind. ''Could it be... that he''s faking it?


    Her eyes lit up with a newfound admiration as she stared at him. If I could get close to Keh and be his wife, I''d have the world at my feet. And Miles? He is nothingpared to what Keh could offer me. Plus, I now hold the key to one of his deepest secrets. Determined, Emily smoothed her hair, calmed her racing heart, and stepped out of the shadows. Putting on her most innocent face, she pretended to be lost as she pushed open the door to Keh''s box.

 Jilted Bride 10

    Downstairs, Ophelia was busy piling an array of delicate pastries onto her te with a pair of silver tongs, her attention entirely on the delicious treats in front of her. She didn''t notice when she bumped into someone holding a ss of wine. "Oh, I''m so sorry," she murmured, her eyes momentarily flicking upward before returning to the strawberry mille-feuille the had been eyeing. Just as she reached for it, a hand mped down on her wrist, stopping her mid-motion


    "Ophelia What are you doing here? The voice was unmistakable-sharp, full of disdain. She slowly lifted her gaze, only to be met with the piercing stare of Miles, a man who had once been a beacon of hope in her life butter threw her into the darkest depths. "Of all the people here, why him? she thought, her mood souring. The grand hall was packed with people, yet she had to run into the very person she least wanted to see.


    Miles sneered, his voice dripping with contempt, "How did you get in here? Following me again, are you? I''ve told you countless times-Emily is the only one I care about. Honestly, I used to feel sorry for you, but now you just disgust me. Stop clinging to me! Huh? What nonsense are you talking about? Ophelia asked, her voiceced with sarcasm.


    She stared nkly, wondering how she could have ever been in love with this man in herst life. Is he really the same boy who saved me when I was little?'' she thought.


    "Stop ying hard to get, Miles continued, clearly agitated. "Whatever tricks you''re up to, it''s not going to work. I will never ever fall for you?


    Ophelia''s patience snapped. "Thanks. Now, can you get out of the way? You''re blocking my dessert," she said coolly, not even. bothering to look at him anymore.


    She pushed him aside as if he were nothing more than a minor inconvenience, her voice as cold as the icy re she spared him. Even if he had been that boy from her past, she had repaid him tenfold in herst life.


    Miles stood frozen for a moment, stunned by her indifference. Something was different about her today-there was none of the affection he was used to. Annoyed and confused, he red at her. "Ophelia, don''t tell me you''re nning to do something to Emily again. I''m warning you "


    Before he could finish his sentence, Ophelia mped the silver tongs down on his pointing finger and twisted it backward. hard.


    "Ow-damn it," he hissed and red at her, his face twisted in pain as his finger started turning purple.


    "Oh, Emily isn''t with you?" Ophelia smiled sweetly, though her eyes glinted with sarcasm. "Could it be that you didn''t manage to buy any item tonight? Or maybe she''s found someone else, seeing how useless you are!''


    Her words were like a knife to his pride. Miles, with his need for control and reputation, couldn''t stand being talked down to. On the outside, he projected the image of a refined gentleman, but Ophelia knew the truth-he was an arrogant, controlling man who couldn''t stand being made a fool of


    As she released his hand, she casually tossed the tongs back onto the table with disdain, grabbed her te of pastries, and strolled over to a nearby couch, sinking into it while enjoying her treats as if nothing had happened.


    Miles seethed, clenching his fists, his face flushed with anger. His eyes followed her every move as she sat down, entirely unfazed, nibbling at her pastries.


    It didn''t help that a group of wealthy young men, his friends, gathered around her, trying to chat her up. Ophelia didn''t even look up, merely focusing on her food with a calm, almostzy demeanor.


    Watching her surrounded by admirers, something inside Miles stirred. It wasn''t jealousy-at least, that was what he told himself-but an ufortable feeling settled in his chest. He used to be the one she looked at like that What annoyed him even more was that despite her simple dress, Ophelia looked captivating. She hadn''t bothered with an extravagant gown, but there was something about her tonight that made it impossible to look away Miles


    es shook his ad, frustrated. His eyes darted around the room, searching for Emily, but she was nowhere to be seen


    Against his will, Ophelia''s parting words echoed in his mind.


    "Mr. Lewis." A young woman came running up, holding the hem of her gown as she hurried over to him. "Mr. Lewis, you need toe quickly. Emily... Emily''s been thrown into the fountain outside."


    "What?" Miles scowled, looking once more toward Ophelia, who sat leisurely enjoying her desserts as if the world outside didn''t exist. Without another word, he stormed off toward the hotel entrance, his mind racing


    A crowd had gathered around the fountain outside the hotel, with journalists snapping pictures from a distance. Curious whispers floated through the air as onlookers spected about the soaked woman in the fountain. "Isn''t that Emily Hastings, the heiress to the Hastings family? What''s going on?" one person asked, craning his neck for a better


    view.


    "I don''t know. All I heard was a scream, and when I looked over, she was already in the water, someone else responded, her voice tinged with curiosity.


    "Maybe she had too much to drink and fell in?" another suggested, stilling augh.


    "Who knows?" someone mocked as a few guests chuckled under their breath.


    cle''s


    Some peopleughed, others were intrigued, but all wore the same expression-one of amusement at someone el misfortune.


    Miles shoved his way through the crowd, his heart sinking at the sight of Emily sprawled in the shallow water,pletely drenched. Though the fountain wasn''t deep, she was soaked from head to toe, miserably trying to cover herself-one hand shielding her face and the other desperately clinging to her chest to keep from exposing herself.


    Each time she attempted to stand, her sodden gown caught under her feet, sending her tumbling back into the water with an unceremonious ssh.


    Ignoring the shing cameras and the murmurs of the crowd, Miles stormed forward, lifting Emily out of the fountain without a word.


    His face was a mask of cold fury as he carried her back into his hotel suite, quickly ordering someone to track down the photographers and get the pictures deleted.


    "What the hell happened, Emily?" Miles asked, his voice a mix of concern and frustration,


    He wrapped a plush towel around Emily, who was now shivering and red-eyed, her tears mixing with the water still dripping from her hair. She looked utterly humiliated, her face pale and vulnerable, but remained silent.


    Her shoulders trembled under the towel, and she choked back more sobs. She didn''t want to relive the mortification of what had just urred. She had snuck into Keh''s suite and had barely exchanged a few words with him when, without so much as ncing her way, he''d ordered his bodyguards to throw her out-literally. She had never felt so small, so utterly humiliated.


    "Was it Ophelia?" Miles asked, his voice tight with certainty. It has to be her, he thought, ''Every time Ophelia is around, Emily ends up being humiliated or hurt. The thought of Ophelia''sposed, unbothered expression earlier only confirmed his suspicions. "Stay here. I''ll go deal with her," Miles growled, venom in his voice as he moved to leave. But before he could reach the door, Emily grabbed his arm, stopping him.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    She couldn''t let him go back to the ballroom. If someone said something and he found out what had really happened, the consequences wouldn''t be in her favor.


    "No, Miles, please," Emily whispered, her voice trembling. "I don''t want more people to know about this. Just stay with me. I''m scared" Her plea worked. Though she hadn''t said it outright, her tone left no doubt that she believed Ophelia was behind this Miles''s fury softened at her words, and he sighed, running a hand through his hair.


    "Alright," he murmured, wrapping his arm around her, pulling her close in a gesture offort. I''m not going anywhere. I''ll stay with you. Don''t be scared. I''ve got you"


    Meanwhile, at the back entrance of the hotel, near the restrooms, Ophelia had no idea that she was being med for


    5:43 PM c d


    something Keh had done. She was hiding behind arge decorative vase, her eyes narrowing as she eavesdropped on a conversation between Owen and a mysterious woman.


    Owen''s voice was calm, almost reassuring. "Did you see our daughter? She''s grown into such a fine young woman. You don''t need to worry anymore."


    "Alright." The woman''s voice trembled with emotion, her head bowed, arms crossed tightly over her chest. "I didn''t have the means to raise her back then. That''s why I left her with you, Mr. Hastings. You know that. I don''t want to disrupt your family."


    From her hiding spot, Ophelia could see their backs clearly. Owen gently ced a hand on the woman''s shoulder, his tone soft as heforted her. "I know. But I won''t let you suffer either. Don''t worry. I''ll take care of our daughter. One day, the three of us will be together again."


    The woman leaned into Owen''s shoulder, and after a few more whispered words, the two of them disappeared into the elevator, leaving Ophelia alone with her thoughts,


    She had only wanted to use the restroom, but she had stumbled upon something much more revealing.


    "Their daughter? What does that mean?'' Ophelia mused, her brow furrowing. ''Owen has a daughter with someone else? Or maybe...


    Her mind raced, piecing together fragments from herst life. Slowly, a theory began to form, a truth

 Jilted Bride 11

    After leaving the grand hall. Ophelia slid into the car, but her mind was still lingering on what had just happened. ''So that''s why, she thought. It all makes sense now. So that''s why Owen, with his cold, profit-driven mindset, has always treated Emily "What''s on your mind?" Keh''srge handnded on her head, gently turning her face toward him.


    "Nothing much, Ophelia smiled innocently, as if she hadn''t just unraveled a hidden truth. She reached into a small box beside her and pulled out a neatly verapped dessert, offering it to him. "Want a taste?"


    Mark, watching from the front seat, caught a glimpse through the rearview mirror. He couldn''t help but be dumbfounded. He had never seen anyone in such high society circles attend a charity event ande back with snacks,From N?velDrama.Org.


    Keh nced at the delicate green matcha mousse in her petite hands and then at her in that forest green gown. Does she have a thing for green? he mused.


    Noticing his hesitation, Ophelia added, "It''s not that sweet. You might actually like it."


    "But you see," Keh murmured, his eyes never leaving hers, "I prefer sweet things"


    "Hmm" Ophelia raised a brow in surprise. She had never seen Keh indulge in anything sugary before, so she naturally assumed he wasn''t a fan. Apparently, they had more inmon than she thought.


    Before she could fully process his words, his hand cupped the back of her head, pulling her closer. His lips, cool and firm, imed hers, tasting her as if he were savoring something far sweeter than the dessert she had offered. The scent of strawberries and cream filled the air between them as he ravished her soft lips as if they were alone.


    Sitting at the front, Mark, ever the professional, silently raised the partition


    In the rear of the car, the tension soared. Keh''s kisses were always possessive, charged with an intensity that left Ophelia''s entire body tingling. It was the kind of kiss that refused to be ignored, that pulled her into the very heat of his desire, until she was left breathless, unable to resist.


    Then, just as the cake in her hands slipped, smearing across Keh''s expensive trousers, the kiss broke.


    Ophelia looked down at the ruined dessert with genuine regret, her lips still tingling. But before she could say anything. Keh''s hand ruffled her hair with a mischievous grin.


    "What are you looking at? His voice was a teasing growl "Hmm?"


    Her eyes darted to where the cake hadnded, and a blush crept up her cheeks. The spot was rather embarrassing. Flustered, she quickly turned her gaze to the window.


    The car ride back to Rosewood Manor stretched into the deep hours of the night. At some point, without even realizing it, Ophelia dozed off. She had always loved sleeping, ever since she was a child. Sleeping meant she wouldn''t feel hungry or cold. And as long as she felt safe, she could drift off in moments.


    Keh noticed her head start to droop, and he gently rested it on his shoulder, his eyes softening as he nced down at her. ''Still sleeps like when she was little,'' he thought, an unusual tenderness flickering in his gaze.


    When the car finally pulled up to Rosewood Manor, Keh stepped out first. As if on instinct, he reached out to cradle Ophelia''s head, careful not to disturb her sleep. Then, without a second thought, he scooped her up in his arms, carrying her like she were something precious.


    Mark watched the whole scene, stunned. Never had he seen Keh, who was infamous for his cold, ruthless demeanor, treat someone with such care. It seems Miss Ophelia holds a special ce in Mr. Keh''s heart, he thought.


    The next morning, the golden sunlight filtered softly through the curtains, casting a warm, gentle glow across the room. The delicate rays spilled over the bed, creating a soft contrast against the cool, crisp sheets. Ophelia slowly opened her eyes, blinking as the light kissed her skin, and for a brief moment, there was nothing but peaceful silence.


    She nced at the clock-6 a.m. sharp, as always. The habit was ingrained in her, a routine she rarely broke. It took her a moment to remember where she was, but then it hit her. I must''ve fallen asleep in the carst night. And... Keh probably Chapter IE


    carried me in again, she mused, stretchingzily under the covers.


    As Ophelia was about to get out of bed, a strong arm suddenly wrapped around her waist, pulling her back like she were some sort of pillow. The warm breath by her ear, low and raspy, muttered. "Don''t move."


    Keh''s voice was still thick with sleep.


    Ophelia froze, feeling like her whole body was locked in ce. Her mind raced, wondering. What''s Keh doing in my bed?


    A few moments passed, and the soft rhythm of his breathing told her he''d drifted back to sleep. Slowly, she let out a breath of relief and carefully turned around to face him.


    What met her eyes was a scene straight out of a dream.


    The early morning light filtered gently through the curtains, casting a soft glow over Keh''s sharp, handsome features. His longshes cast delicate shadows on his cheeks, and his tousled hair caught the light, turning golden in the morning sun. The usual hard edges of his face seemed to soften in this moment of peace, making him look far less intimidating.


    Seeing him like this stirred something quiet and calm within her. He''s my husband after all, so sharing a bed isn''t a big deal. right? With that thought, she grew bolder, her gaze tracing the lines of his face.


    "Have you seen enough?" Keh''s voice broke the silence, his lips barely moving. Though his eyes remained closed, his


    words startled her.


    But Ophelia, unflinching, shot back with a smirk, "Not nearly."


    Keh chuckled, finally opening his eyes to meet her gaze. The deep furrow in his forehead from sleeping too hard was still there, and in the depths of his enchanting eyes, she saw her reflection.


    He reached outzily, ruffling her hair as if she were a big puppy. Then, as quickly as he''d touched her, he pulled his hand back and shut his eyes again.


    "I''ll give you five more minutes to stare," he teased, a half-smile tugging at his lips.


    Ophelia blinked, slightly speechless. Five minutes? Seriously?"


    After they both freshened up, they headed downstairs together. Keh led the way, with Ophelia following close behind. both descending the grand staircase like a royal procession.


    Mark and his father Liam, waiting in the hall a long time ago, turned to look at the staircase and exchanged a nce, their minds filled with unsaid questions. The sight of these twoing down together in the morning left little to the imagination about what might have happened the night before.


    "Mr. Keh, Miss Ophelia, breakfast is ready," Liam said as he stepped forward.


    Keh''s expression darkened slightly, his voice filled with displeasure. "What did you call her?"


    Liam quickly corrected himself, "Ah, I meant Mrs. Ophelia."


    Keh''s face softened, clearly satisfied. He took Ophelia''s small hand in his, led her to the dining room, and sat her down gently at the table.


    Mark, ever the diligent worker, prepared to give Keh his morning report when his eyes instinctively flickered toward Ophelia, sitting quietly across from Keh. There was a moment of hesitation in his eyes, but before he could decide whether to continue, Keh gave a subtle nod.


    "It''s fine. Go ahead, Keh said, lifting his cup of coffee to his lips with an elegance that came naturally to him. Even in something as mundane as breakfast, his presencemanded the room, like a king presiding over his domain.


    This was exactly like the man she remembered from herst life-never hiding anything from her, even when discussing matters of the vast Sinir empire.


    Not that it made much difference. The inner workings of the massive corporation were beyond her understanding, and the details of their business dealings often blurred into background noise. So, Ophelia simply focused on her meal, quietly nibbling at her breakfast, asionally ncing at her phone to check her messages.


    As she took a bite of her sandwich, a notification popped up. It was a bank transfer. After deducting the portion meant for


    Chapter li


    charity, she''d received around four million dors-a tidy sum that would allow her to open a boutique in one of the prime areas of Denes.


    Ophelia was determined to turn her vision into reality, opening the La Reverie evening gown store in Denex-finally fulfilling the dream she couldn''t achieve in herst life.


    Just as she was making ns in her head, she stumbled upon the entertainment news headline "Rising starlet Emily Hastings


    drunk and falls into the fountain.


    As she sipped her milk, she caught sight of the video attached in the article where Emily, face buried in her hands, was hriously tossed into a fountain.


    The editors had even slowed down the footage and reyed the moment three times, highlighting the perfect are as she tumbled into the water. Ophelia nearly choked on her drink, the milk almost spewing out in a fit ofughter.


    She thought. They''re saying she fell? It''s obvious someone threw her in there. Whoever did it, bless their soul. It''s about time the Hastings family had some bad luck. The more misfortune they get, the happier I''ll be."


    But she knew this was just the beginning-the Hastings family''s downfall was only going to get worse.


    At that moment, the very man behind Emily''s little "ident across the table calmly fetched a piece of napkin. His elegant fingers reached across and tenderly wiped the milk from the corner of her mouth.


    "Focus on your food and stop watching that nonsense. Keh''s tone was stern, but there was a hint of affection there, too. Ophelia blinked at the unexpected gesture, momentarily surprised. "Is he treating me like a little kid now?" Mark, on the other hand, was trying his best not tough, utterly speechless. ''Mr. Keh wiping her mouth like that... He''s acting more like a concerned father than anything else.

 Jilted Bride 12

    After breakfast, Liam took a ck suit jacket from the coat rack and held it open. Keh stood, spreading his arms as he slipped into it, adjusting the cor and cuffs with his usual crisp precision. The old housekeeper, Lisa Palmer, reached for the matching tie, ready to help him with it.


    But Keh''s eyes shifted to Ophelia. "You do it


    Ophelia blinked, startled. "Me? I don''t know how


    And she really didn''t. Growing up in the slums, no one ever taught her how to tie a tie.


    Til teach you once, Keh said, cing the tie in her hands. He gently took her soft, petite hands in his, guiding them as he lowered his head so she could reach. The tie looped around his neck, and together they fumbled through the motions.


    With the height difference between them, Ophelia had to crane her neck to look up at him. She was so focused, her brows slightly furrowed in concentration, that Keh''s thoughts started drifting, Watching her like this, he felt an overwhelming urge to take her on the spot. He figured if he didn''t pull himself together and stop staring, he wouldn''t make it out of the house today,


    Once it was finished. Keh''s expression slipped back into his usual cold, detached mask. He settled into his wheelchair, ready to leave. But just as he was about to roll away, Ophelia called out. "Wait,"


    She dashed upstairs in a flurry of excitement, her heels clicking against the polished floor. Momentster, she returned, dressed in a fresh outfit that mirrored her determination.


    She recalled Keh''s words from the night before that every outfit should be shown to him first.


    d in a light brown polo shirt paired with a short skirt, her long hair elegantly pinned up with a pearl clip, she exuded a cool,posed confidence that belied her twenty years. There was an air of sophistication about her that was decidedly unchildlike, more akin to a seasoned professional.


    Tm going out in this today," she said with a smile. I thought I''d show you first."


    Keh''s ga


    gaze faltered, his heart skipping a beat. He watched her with an intensity that deepened with every second. "She remembered what I said. She actually cares.


    Suddenly, Keh stood up from the wheelchair, took her by the neck, and kissed her. This kiss wasn''t like the ones before, full of raw possession. This time, it was tender, filled with a delicate longing. His lips moved against hers like she were something precious, fragile.


    Ophelia felt the shift in him, and she responded in kind.


    As the kiss deepened, Keh''s breathing grew heavier. He pulled away reluctantly, his forehead resting against hers. His voice was low and husky as he teased. "Little one, are you trying to seduce me!"


    Opheliaughed softly, "You''re the one seducing me. I''m just returning the favor.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "Sharp-tongued as always, Keh chuckled, running his thumb across her soft lips, the heat in his eyes slowly ebbing away Then, as if in yful revenge, he ruffled her hair, messing up the neat style she''d put together.


    As Keh''s chest rose and fell from the intensity of the moment, Ophelia found herself amused by the sight.


    Not long after Keh left Rosewood Manor, Lisa emerged from the dining room, carrying Ophelia''s phone. "Miss Ophelia.... no, Mrs. Ophelia, you have a call" she said with a warm smile as she handed the phone over. The screen showed an unfamiliar number, but Ophelia recognized it¡ªit was from the Hastings family,


    "What do they want now? Ophelia wondered, her eyes narrowing. The moment she picked up, Heather''s furious voice sted through the speaker. "Ophelia, have you lost your mind? How dare youy a hand on Emily at the g? You need toe back here immediately, Heather scolded.


    Heather''s shouting was so loud that it was like the phone itself was vibrating from the force of her anger.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow, her thoughts racing. Iid a hand on Emily? Since when? Could it be they''re ming me for


    Chipset th


    Emily being tossed into that fountain!


    She had half a mind to hang up the phone right then and there, but something made her pause. Last night, she''d hada sneaking suspicion about the whole thing. And now, this call seemed to confirm it. Smiling to herself, Ophelia replied sweetly. "Sure, I be right over" "Let''s see how this ys out. There''s still a crucial piece of evalence missing, and I intend to find it, she pondered with a smirk


    At Hastings Vi, Emily saw the video leak first thing in the morning


    Despite Miles having done his best to silence the media the night before, some small outlets still managed to release footage from the event. As the news spread, Heather alternated betweenforting Emily and cursing Ophelia under her breath.


    Tused to feel guilty for forcing Ophelia to marry the owner of Rosewood Manor, Heather thought bitterly, but now it''s dear she''s as venomous as a stake, I never should''ve brought her back into the family. She''s only ever brought shame to us, the caring daughter I raised myself This whole situation can be dealt with pretty easily, Harry suggested, leaning back casually. "The video doesn''t show any faces, so if Sungate Entertainment issues a statement denying the rumors and pins the me on some scapegoat, it''ll all blow over soon enough." Ophelia had just walked into the room in time to catch Harry''sst words. ''A scapegoat?" she thought, instantly piecing things together and seeing why Heather had called her back..


    Just as Ophelia approached, a coffee cup shattered at her feet, its contents-rich, freshly brewed coffee made from the finest beans-sttering across the floor. Some of the shards grazed her ankle, and bright red blood trickled down her slender leg Heather red at her, her eyes burning with hatred. "I didn''t rescue you from the slums so you could turn around and stab me


    in the back like this."


    "Mom, please don''t get so worked up, Emily chimed in, her voice pitiful and her eyes wide, brimming with fake tears. "It''s not good for your health."


    Heather took a deep breath, then pointed at Ophelia, her tone sharp andmanding "You. Clear Emily''s name right now. Tell everyone that it was you who got tossed into the fountainst night."


    Ophelia nced around the living room, noticing that Owen wasn''t present. If Owen isn''t here, then this whole trip would be a waste of time, she thought, already considering leaving.


    But before she could turn away. Harry blocked her path. "Elia, do you even realize what a scandal could do to our family''s reputation? Thepany''s stock could plummet. Dad''s on a business trip. You need to take responsibility before Dad finds out about all this. If you step up and clear Emily''s name, we''ll forgive what you didst night.


    ''A business trip? Ophelia arched an eyebrow, her expression incredulous. "Have you all forgotten, or are your memories just that short? I''ve already cut ties with your family. Why on earth would I need your forgiveness?"


    "You-" Harry started, but couldn''t finish, clearly rattled by her sharp retort


    Ophelia turned her gaze to Emily, who stood there looking so innocent and helpless. Without warning, Ophelia stepped forward, raising her hand.


    Emily flinched, thinking she was about to be pped, but quickly straightened herself. ''Go ahead, hit me, she thought. ''It''ll just make them hate her even more. She''s digging her own grave


    But Ophelia didn''t hit her. Instead, she gently brushed a strand of Emily''s hair behind her ear. "Are you absolutely sure it was me who had you thrown into the fountainst night?" she asked softly, her voiceced with hidden steel.


    Emily''s eyes wavered under Ophelia''s piercing gaze, her initial confidence faltering. She knew exactly who had tossed her into the fountain, but she was banking on Ophelia not knowing


    "Elia," Emily stammered. "I never meant to take your ce. No matter how much you hate me, you can''t just do this. It''s embarrassing for me, sure, but it''s also a stain on our family''s name


    As Emily went on, ying the part of the victim wlessly, Ophelia''s mind wandered. Watching her act, she suddenly recalled


    the woman she''d seen in Owen''s armsst night. They even look so much alike, Ophelia mused, finding the resemnce


    uncanny.


    Before Ophelia could respond, Heather rushed forward and pushed her away, shielding Emily like a mother hen protecting her chick. "You''ve hurt Emily time and again, all because I lost you when you were a child, isn''t that right? "me me if you must, but Emily''s done nothing wrong. Even if she''s not my biological daughter, I''ve raised her as my own. You don''t need to make things difficult for her."


    You may


    ay think of her as your daughter, but who knows if she feels the same about you, Ophelia thought, her gaze softening with pity. But she didn''t bother saying it out loud-Heather wouldn''t hear her anyway. The way she fiercely protected Emily made it clear that any argument would fall on deaf ears.


    "Since you''re all so certain I''m to me forst night, why don''t you call the police and report me?" Ophelia suggested, her


    tone cool.


    Heather''s face twisted with rage. "Do you have to take it this far? If you still think of me as your mother, if you remember that I gave birth to you, then listen to Harry and clear Emily''s name. It''s not a big deal.


    MIMB

 Jilted Bride 13

    Ophelia let out a cold, bitterugh, thinking, How easy they make it sound. In myst life, these people loved throwing me under the bus to take the me for everything!


    She recalled one time when Emily had been caught in a scandal with a director at a hotel. Hack then, the Hastings family had made her step in and took the fall just to clear up the mess for Emily.


    They had always preached about "family sticking together, but when she was bombarded with online abuse and attacked with acid by the director''s furious wife, none of them stood up for her. Instead, theynd med her for being naive and careless. Ophelia shrugged, her tone dripping with indifference. "If it''s no big deal, then let her clean up her own mess,


    Heather''s face turned red with fury as she grabbed a cup, ready to hurl it at Ophelia again. But Ophelia stood her ground, not even flinching, her eyes calm and clear, as if she were gazing at nothing more than a bunch of corpses.


    Heather''s hand froze mid-air, cup in hand, unsure what to do. But then Ophelia just turned on her heel and strode towards


    the door.


    Just as she reached the exit, the sound of shattering ss echoed behind her.


    "It''s okay, Emily, Mommy''s here..." Heather cooed, trying tofort Emily.


    A faint smirk tugged at the corner of Ophelia''s lips, a mocking curve.


    As she stepped out of the mansion, she was met by a storming Nathan barreling toward her like a freight train.


    "You filthy wretch. How dare you show your face here again!" Nathan bellowed, cocking his fist, aiming straight for her.


    Nathan, with his gym-honed body, standing at nearly six feet tall, was a beast of a man. He had even learned boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. But against Ophelia, who had a knack for real-lifebat, he was woefully outmatched. His punch came at her in what felt like slow motion.


    She sidestepped easily, grabbed his outstretched arm, and with a swift knee to his torso, the muscr giant was on the ground, groaning. "Pathetic," she scoffed.


    "What did you just say? Who''s Nathan wheezed, clutching his chest, his sun-kissed face now a deep shade of purple, like he was about to burst. Anger surged through him as he thought, This is the second time. That brat... I''ll make her pay!


    Leaving Hastings Vi behind her, Ophelia made a phone call. "Chloe, I need you to look into someone for me. Oh, and get me a universal key card for Evend Hotel"


    Two hourster, Ophelia found herself dressed in the maid''s uniform at Evend Hotel, standing inside the room where Owen had spent the night with that mystery woman.


    Fortunately, they had checked out early that morning to head to another city for vacation. The room hadn''t been cleaned yet. She carefully picked a few strands of hair off the pillowcase, cing them into a stic bag alongside some of Emily''s hair she had brought with her.


    Although she was fairly sure of the truth already, she wanted solid proof.


    Just as she was about to leave, an older cleaningdy pushed her cart into the room, locking eyes with Ophelia. "Huh? I thought I was supposed to clean this room," the cleaningdy said.


    "Must be a mix-up. I should be cleaning the one next door," Ophelia replied nonchntly, pocketing the evidence bag as if nothing had happened.


    The cleaningdy put on her yellow rubber gloves and began tidying up the room. "The room next door''s a presidential suite. You''d better wait a bit. I just saw a group of people go in."


    Ophelia hadn''t paid much attention at first, but then the cleaningdy muttered to herself, "Such a shame though. That man in the next suite, he''s got the looks to put any TV actor to shame. Too bad he''s stuck in a wheelchair."


    The word wheelchair made Ophelia freeze mid-step. Keh''s striking face shed through her mind.


    "Hey, are you new here? I don''t remember seeing you before, the cleaningdy chirped, but before she could drag Ophelia into more small talk, she had already slipped out of the room. FUME


    As Ophelia passed the presidential suite, the door swung open, and a middle-aged man called out to her, "Hey, you Come clean this up."


    The door stayed ajar, and the room was filled with a smoky haze. Several bodyguards in ck stood at various points around the room, arms folded behind their backs, casting a suffocating atmosphere. From deeper within, the sound of things being thrown and smashed rang out.


    "You useless idiots. How did Grandfather hire a bunch of such ipetents?" a man shouted furiously.


    One of the subordinates replied, "Mr. Sinir, we admit we mishandled things, but you know how your brother operates."


    "Don''t call him my brother. He''s nothing but an illegitimate child, a shameful secret that shouldn''t even exist. And now, he has the audacity to rise above me? I don''t care how you do it, just pull him down from that position by any means necessary," the man roared, his voice filled with venom.


    As Ophelia entered and began sweeping up the broken ss scattered across the floor, she listened in on their conversation. From theer of her eye, she noticed a man sitting in a wheelchair, his ck dress pants draping over one leg, while the other pant leg hung empty.


    From what she overheard, she guessed that this man must be Patrick Sinir, Keh''s half-brother.


    Emily had mentioned it in passing in herst life-Keh had seized his current position by destroying his half-brother''s


    life.


    The infighting within the Sinir family was savage, with blood rtions meaning little in the face of power struggles. And with a womanizing father like Noel Sinir, who had gone through three wives and had more than a few illegitimate children, the battles for control were inevitable. Patrick was the only legitimate son, born from Noel''s marriage to his first wife, which was why Keh and Patrick''s grandfather, Ronan Sinir, had initially supported Patrick in leading the family.


    But just a year ago, Keh had crippled Patrick. forcing him to relinquish control. Keh had since taken over Sinir Group.


    Then, just a few months ago, Keh survived an assassination attempt and reappeared confined to a wheelchair. Rumors swirled that he didn''t have much time left.From N?velDrama.Org.


    It seemed like this group had been biding their time since that incident, waiting for the perfect moment to stir up trouble.


    Once Ophelia finished cleaning, two of the bodyguards ushered her out, roughly mming the door shut behind her. But just before the door closed, she thought she heard Patrick murmur, Tonight, Avalon Port... the shipment''s arriving. You all know what to do..."


    She stood outside the door, reying the details in her mind, trying to recall if anything significant had happened around this time in herst life. But truth be told, back then, she had cared so little about Keh that she hadn''t bothered keeping track of the family''s dealings.


    As she left the hotel. Ophelia made two calls to Keh''s number while on her way to Denex Medical Center, but both went unanswered.


    In the sleek, ss-walled conference room on the top floor of the Sinir Group building in Denex, Keh sat at the head of the table, leaning back in his wheelchair.


    His eyes were closed, seemingly resting, while his fingers absentmindedly twirled the ring on his pinky. Every so often, he would cough delicately into his hand, a small, restrained sound that belied the power he wielded in the room.


    The tension in the room was palpable. No one dared to breathe too loudly.


    "The price you mentioned earlier-lower it by five percent," Keh ordered coolly, his voice carrying the sharpness of an unsheathed de.


    SIL FM


    "Mr. Sinir, the price is already extremely low," one of the regional managers stammered nervously, trying to make his case.


    Keh slowly opened his eyes, his sharp gaze narrowing slightly. A faint smirk yed at his lips, but it carried a chilling undertone. "Then lower it by fifteen percent. This is a very democraticpany. I give people options."


    The manager''s internal monologue screamed, ''Options? You call this a choice? Five percent or fifteen percent-it''s a death sentence either way"


    But outwardly, he could only bow his head and mutter, "Yes, sir."


    The room was filled with titans of industry, men and women used to making tough decisions and standing adversity. Yet, under Keh''s icy gaze, they all seemed to shrink, not daring to oppose him.


    tall in the face of


    Since Keh took control of Sinir Group a year ago, his ruthless methods and razor-sharp instincts catapulted thepany to unprecedented heights, making it the world''srgest conglomerate. Those who followed him made obscene amounts of money, but those who crossed him faced catastrophic consequences.


    Even with his current illness" slowly weakening him, no one in the room dared to challenge the man some referred to as a ruthless monster.


    Just then, Mark burst into the conference room, clutching a phone as he hurried toward Keh. "Mr. Keh, there are two calls for you. Chapter 14

 Jilted Bride 14

    Keh nced at his phone, noticing two missed calls from Ophelia back at home. His mood instantly brightened. A warmth spread through him, brightening his mood instantly. The mere thought of her was enough to chase away the cloud of annoyance that had settled


    over the morning.


    "Take a thirty-minute break," he announced.


    The room fell into a stunned silence. No one dared to move until Mark, sensing their hesitation, repeated the order. Slowly, they shuffled out, bewildered.


    "Has Mr. Sinir gone soft today? He never allows meetings to be interrupted," one whispered.


    "Do you think he''s sick? He''s been coughing a lot," another murmured.


    "He''s still so young and weak?" someone muttered ominously.


    "Don''t talk nonsense," some other person said.


    Back in the office, Keh stared at his phone, a trace of amusement on his face. Does she miss me that much? he mused.


    Mark''s voice cut through his thoughts. "Mr. Keh, Miss Ophelia visited Hastings Vi today. Afterward, she went to Evend Hotel. Just as you instructed, our people let her slip in herself without help. But Mr. Patrick happened to be at the hotel as well. Miss Ophelia disguised herself as a cleaning staff and was called into Mr. Patrick''s room by his men...."


    Keh''s expression darkened, the air around him chilling to ice.


    "But she was thrown out before long," Mark quickly exined, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. "Mr. Patrick likely has


    idea who she really is. But, uh... do you have any idea what she''s up to?"


    Keh''s gaze softened, and he gave a casual wave. "Let her do whatever she wants. Just keep her safe. Don''t get too involved. She needs to have a little sense of achievement and feel like she''s aplished something on her own." Just then, his phone rang again. The name ''Little One'' shed on the screen.


    He picked it up, and Ophelia''s soft, honeyed voice flowed through the line. "Keh, I heard there was going to be some action at Avalon Port tonight-something dangerous involving that shipment. It might be trouble for you."


    Is she worried about me? Keh''s lips twitched into a smile he couldn''t quite suppress.


    "Hello? Keh, are you even listening to me!" Ophelia''s voice was filled with confusion on the other end.


    "Yeah," Keh replied, his tone as nonchnt as ever.


    Ophelia was baffled at first, but when she heard his calm response, it clicked. "Wait... You already knew? You set them up, didn''t


    you?


    "Yes," he admitted.


    Realizing she''d worried for nothing, Ophelia couldn''t help butugh to herself. ''Of course, he knew. Nothing escapes Keh''s grasp, she thought, rendered speechless. She suddenly understood why he yed the part of the man in the wheelchair-every move was calcted. "Alright then, she pondered, her concerns finally put to rest.


    After hanging up, Mark stood nearby, puzzled. He was grinning just now when she called. But all he said on the call was... two


    words?"


    Keh set his phone down, his fingers casually rubbing the silver hand on his pinky. "Can''t spoil her too much, or she''ll be impossible to handle."


    e who said to keep her safe, to give her a little sense of achievement? Mark


    Mark blinked, incredulous. "Wait, wasn''t he the one was at a loss for words. "This is what not spoiling her looks like?''


    L/B


    Chapter it


    Meanwhile, Ophelia had already moved on to her next mission. She stood in the sterile, white halls of a hospital, overseeing the DNA test that would finally confirm her suspicions. With the samples of Owen''s and Emily''s hair in hand, she filled out the necessary paperwork


    "Results will be ready in seven working days, the clerk informed her as Ophelia nodded, her mind already spinning ahead.


    Leaving the hospital, she took a subway to the suburbs, changing trains several times before she arrived at her destination.


    A small, white cottage by theke stood waiting. As she approached, a small head popped out from the balcony on the second floor. "Elia, you''re finally here to see me," a young boy''s voice called out, full of excitement.


    Wyatt Stevens, only five years old, had an adorable, cherubic face with sharp, delicate features. His longshes framedrge doe-like eyes, and his voice still carried the sweetness of childhood.


    Next to him rose a slender figure-a woman with a serene elegance. Chloe Stevens, Wyatt''s mother, had a gentle air about her, but her piercing eyes-like those of a siren-hinted at a colder, more aloof nature. "You''re here," Chloe said softly as Ophelia approached. The moment Ophelia stepped through the front door, Wyatt shot down the stairs like a little missile andunched himself


    into her arms.


    "Wyatt, have you been a good boytely?" Ophelia smiled, ruffling his soft hair affectionately.


    Wyatt grinned, his little chest puffing with pride. "I''ve been really good. I eat all my meals and take my medicine on time, don''t I, Mommy?" he beamed.


    Chloe smiled back, her voice tinged with warmth as she answered, "Yes, you do."


    After chatting with them for a bit, Chloe crouched down and gently said to Wyatt, Sweetheart, why don''t you go y by yourself for a little while, okay?" Reluctantly, Wyatt untangled himself from Ophelia''s embrace and wandered into the living room. quietly ying with his blocks on the floor.


    Watching his little, adorable figure. Ophelia felt both affection and helplessness.


    She began, "Chloe, remember the gown sale you helped me with? Didn''t we agree on a seventy-thirty split?" As she spoke, Ophelia pulled a card from her bag and pressed it into Chloe''s hand. "Wyatt''s treatment still needs money, and I can''t let you help me for free." Chloe''s eyes showed a flicker of exhaustion as she responded, "I can''t take your money anymore. You''ve provided for us all these years and even put a roof over our heads."


    "Take it. Consider it as an advance on your sry. There''s plenty more for you to help me with." Ophelia wasn''t one for beating around the bush. She exined her ns for the future, getting straight to the point.


    Of course, Chloe was beyond supportive. Years ago, after an unnned pregnancy got her kicked out of her family and left her to fend for herself in the slums, it was Ophelia and her adoptive mother Gabrielle Spencer, who had saved Chloe and Wyatt from despair. "If Gabrielle knew, she would be so proud of you," Chloe said with a warm smile.


    Ophelia nodded, her gaze drifting to a framed photograph on the nearby table. It showed an elderly woman with snow-white hair sitting elegantly in an embroidered evening gown, her face softened by a gentle smile, but those eyes were dull and lifeless, looking down If Gabrielle hadn''t found her and taken her in from the cold, deste streets of the slums, Ophelia would''ve been dead in that snow long ago.


    Once a senior designer for one of Denex''s oldest fashion houses in her youth, Gabrielle had made a name for herself crafting exquisite evening gowns. But over time, her eyesight had deteriorated from years of overwork, and she eventually lost her vision entirely. Before that happened, Gabrielle had passed her craft down to Ophelia. In herst life, Ophelia had let Gabrielle down. But this time around, things were going to be different. She wouldn''t fail her again.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    An official response to the incident involving Emily''s fall into the fountain had been posted online, iming that the person thrown into the fountain wasn''t Emily at all, but a minor actress under Sungate Entertainment. Some people believed the exnation, while others didn''t, but sometimes, the truth could always get bulldozed by power Soon enough, the whole incident became impossible to linil on any search engine.


    Emily might have been able to deny the situation publicly, but within the elite circles, it wasn''t that easy to fool anyone. Everyone who attended that charity auction knew what really happened, and Emily had been hiding at home for a week before she dared show her face in public again.


    At an upscale outdoor restaurant, Emily sat with a group of socialite friends for afternoon tea.


    "Emily, your birthday''s next week. Have you decided how you''re going to celebrate?" Willow Byme, who was sitting across from her, asked.


    I''m not sure yet, Emily replied, her voice soli and gentle, as always. No matter the scandal, Emily carried herself with an air of innocence, as if she couldn''t be bothered by the world. That was why, even when rumors surrounded her, they faded, quickly from people''s minds


    Sitting beside her, Hannah Hall took a sip of her juice, ncing toward the entrance. Her sharp eyes caught sight of a striking figure walking toward them. With a teasing grin, she said, "Well, well, Emily, it''s rare to get you out for an afternoon tea with us. And herees Mr. Lewis, right on your heels. The really can''t stay away, can he?"


    When Emily saw Miles approaching, her face lit up, her smile as sweet as honey. She stood up from her chair, her eyes sparkling with surprise. "Miles, what are you doing here?"


    Tve got a meeting with a client here, Miles replied with a grin. "By the way, I booked an entire floor at Evend Hotel for your birthday next week.


    "An entire floor at Evend Hotel Hannah''s eyes widened with awe, her tone dripping with envy.


    After all, Evend Hotel was the pinnacle of luxury in Denex. Not just anyone could walk in, no matter how much money they had.


    Few of the young women at the table, all from prominent families, had ever set foot inside Evend Hotel, much less had an entire floor reserved for them just for their birthdays.


    GIT

 Jilted Bride 15

    Emily couldn''t help basking in the envious nces of the other girls. A deep sense of satisfaction filled her as she looked at their expressions


    "Thank you, Miles," she said with a sweet smile. Normally, she would''ve leaned up and kissed him lightly on the cheek, but ever since she met Keh, Miles no longer seemed like the ultimate catch to her. She thought, ''If it were Keh, he wouldn''t just book one floor.


    "TII leave youdies to chat. I have to go see a client," Miles said as he nodded to the group and made his way out.


    Emily nodded. "Alright."


    Once he was gone, Hannah suggested, "Why don''t we hit the shopster? I heard La Reverie just opened a store in Paralet Shopping Center. It''s their very first gship, apparently. Emily, want to check it out?" Although Emily had already secured a blush pink gown from Heather months ago and even received another gown from Nathan, the mention of La Reverie immediately brought her back to the charity auction. She couldn''t help but think that if she could host her birthday party at Evend Hotel, dressed in a La Reverie gown, it might be just what she needed to shift public opinion back in her favor. "Sounds good. Let''s go take a lookter," Emily agreed.


    Hannah suddenly pointed toward a girl sitting nearby. "Hey, do you see that ck gown over there? It''s stunning. We should get one like that."


    The ck gown indeed looked incredible, making the girl''s skin seem to glow with a delicate radiance.


    "It''s nice, but ck makes me look old," Willow said, shaking her head.


    think you''d look gorgeous in anything, Willow," Emily replied with a polite smile. But the moment her eyesnded on the girl in the ck gown, her smile froze.


    "What''s wrong, Emily Hannah and Willow followed her gaze and saw the girl standing up. Her face was strikingly beautiful, with delicate, refined features. It was Ophelia After a moment of awkward silence, Willow was the first to put two and two together. "Isn''t that the girl your family adopted. not too long ago?"


    Hannah''s eyes lit up with recognition. "Oh, it''s her. The one who pushed Emily into the pool, right?"


    Emily lowered her head, her voice soft. "Are you all finished? Maybe we should go."


    "Emily, what are you afraid of? If she dares to mess with you, we''ll teach her a lesson." Hannah was the first to jump to her feet. eager to y the role of Emily''s protector. Although Emily wore a worried expression, she didn''t try to stop them. Instead, she trailed behind the two as they marched toward Ophelia''s table.


    Hannah nced at the table where a simple paper cup filled with water sat, her disdainful eyes narrowing. She sneered, "Well, well, isn''t that the Hastings family''s small adopted daughter? You haven''t even ordered anything and you''re leaving now? What, couldn''t afford anything more than a ss of water?"


    Ophelia froze, slowly turning around to face them. The word ''adopted hung in her mind, stirring long-buried memories.


    She had almost forgotten that when she first returned to the Hastings family, Owen had insisted that Emily remain the family''s heiress. To avoid causing any hard feelings or difort for Emily, they introduced Ophelia as the adopted daughter, even though she was their real flesh and blood.


    Crossing her arms, Hannah scoffed, "I don''t know what kind of dirty tricks you pulled to weasel your way into the Hastings family, but don''t think for a second that it makes you anything more than a nobody. You think you can just waltz in and bully Emily What a joke From the moment Hannalt heard about the pool incident, she''d been itching to take revenge on Ophelia. But after hearing


    that Ophelia had been kicked out of the Hastings household, there hadn''t been an opportunity-until now Sporting her here felt like a stroke of luck to Hannal, and the wasn''t about to let it slip


    "You''re going to apologize to Emily right now, Hannah demanded, her voice full of self-righteous fury. "Admit you tried to steal her ce and promise to stay in the gutter where you poor people belong. Otherwise, you''re not walking out of here today." "This restaurant is owned by my family, Hannah thought smugly. "Lies she really think she cane in here without ordering anything and just leaver


    Ophelia looked at the group, her eyes cool and detached, as if she were staring at something insignificant. They''re being used by Emily and don''t even realize it, she thought.


    But what battled her most was the constant demand for her to apologize Why do people always expect me to apologize to Emily? Just because she ys the victim, does that mean the''s always in the right


    Her eyesnded on Emily, her gaze sharp and unwavering, as if she could see right through her.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    For a split second, Ermily felt a shiver of difort. Lately, she kept feeling that Ophelia seemed way different from before


    "Elia, don''t be upset. You know how Hannah can be. She''s just blunt, no harm intended. Why don''t you join us instead Order whatever you like, it''s on me." Emily said, her voice dripping with faux generosity.


    "Oh, Emily, you''re just too kind. Do you really think someone vi poor deserves to be in a ce like this? She probably fainted when she saw the prices on the menu, Hannah sneered, her wice loud enough to draw attention from the nearby tables


    The mockery spread like wildfire, with whispers and giggles rising from the surrounding patrons.


    "Girls these days, someone muttered under their breath, "so vain. If you can''t afford it, don''te to ces like this"


    "Exactly. What a joke, another voice chimed in.


    The chorus of jeers only added to Ernily''s satisfaction. She smirked internally, thinking. She should really know her ce A girl from the slums, thinking she canpete with me? Pathetic. I bet that old man in Rosewood Manor has cut her off. What a disgrace,ing to a restaurant and only ordering a ss of free water


    "Elia,e on, tell me what you wanna eat. Let me order something for you to take home. You don''t have to go hungry" Emily pressed on, her tone filled with insincere concern, as if she were offering scraps to a beggar.


    To the bystanders, Emily seemed almost angelic, but Ophelia caught the patronizing note in her voice, a sound she had heard all too often in herst life. Emily had always delighted in unting her superiority.


    A cold smile tugged at the corner of Ophelia''s lips. "Emily, you never learn, do you?" the replied, her voice low but sharp


    Just as she spoke, a server approached, carrying a tray of carefully wrapped desserts "Miss Spencer, here''s your order," he said respectfully, handing her the boxes. Suddenly, the entire restaurant fell silent.


    Each dessert was intricately crafted and looked as expensive as they were. The prices weren''t for the faint of heart Emily''s face froze, her earlier confidence crumbling into awkward confusion. For a brief moment, she was rendered speechless and a flicker of recognition crossed her mind-this scene felt eerily familiar to her.


    Hannah''s jaw dropped in disbelief, "Wait, you bought all that?" she stammered, unable to wrap her head around what was happening. How could a girl kicked out of the Hastings family afford anything in a Michelin star restaurant? These desserts alone cost more than some designer handbags, she pondered.


    Hannah''s face turned an unattractive shade of red, the memory of her earlier ridicule now a painful p across her own


    cheeks


    "Who gave you permission to sell to her the suddenly snapped at the server, directing her embarrassment and fury at the


    The server stood there, clearly ufortable. He knew Hannah was the heiress to the Hall family and didn''t dare to offend her. He lowered his head in sience, hoping the storm would pass quickly Chapter L


    "Did she pay for this Hannah demanded her voice dripping with venom


    "She. She did the server mere looking helpless


    "Well, give her a refund Hannah yelled, manching the bases of deserts from Ophelia''s tutti. "We don''t sell to the likes of you. Selling to poce people like you only bring down the ss of our time."


    in moved Ophelia phone vibrated her hand-a notation of the refunded payment. She red her pe lociung eyes with Hannahi. her voice cool and steady. What did you jos uy?


    "I said nothing in this restaurant is for poor people like you. You think you can wat in here and buy whmever you want You belong at some street stall eating from stic trays. Get that to your bead-our restaurant does serve people as inwly as you." Hannah spat, her face twisted with smug satisfaction and dindan as the red in Cebelu


    Ophelia remainedposed her lips curving into a faint, unreadable smile. She didn''t seem rattied in the slightest, which only frustrated Hannah more.


    Without a word. Ophelia nodded slightly, turned on her beel, and calmly walked away


    In their eyes. Ophelia''s retreat was a victory for them-a triumph congrattory pride washed over them as they watched her les


    g her back in her ce wave of self-


    Later, as the three exited the restaurant. Willow excused herself for another appointment, leaving Hannah to apany Emily as they made their way to Paralet Shopping Center

 Jilted Bride 16

    La Reverie store was in a prime location, with one entrance facing the bustling street and another opening into the mall. The boutique was spacious, about 120 square yards, and its minimalist decor spoke of understated luxury. Despite its simplicity, the space exuded a grandeur that was impossible to ignore..


    However, the store didn''t feel like a typical fashion boutique. It was more like an art gallery. Inside, there were only three evening gowns on disy, each draped over custom-made metal mannequins, encased in ss, as though they were too precious to be touched. The gowns themselves were modern with a touch of timeless elegance-ssy, sophisticated, yet dated


    Hannah and Emily had been standing in the store for what felt like ages, but no one hade to greet them. Finally, the sound of soft footsteps echoed from the staircase.


    Chloe descended from the upper level, graceful and poised in a ck evening gown with white stripes. Her figure was wless, her long hair swept into an elegant updo adorned with a delicate hairpiece. She had a presence about her, with a face so refined that it was hard to guess her age.


    "Sorry to keep you waiting,dies. Chloe greeted them politely, her voice soft but firm. All of our evening gowns are custom-made. It typically takes one to two months, and we''re already booked through the end of the year. Would you be willing to wait?" Emily and Hannah exchanged nces before Emily let out a small sigh of disappointment. That''s quite a long time. I think we''ll have to pass."


    "What about these three?" Hannah pointed to the gowns on disy. There aren''t any price tags"


    "These three are for rent only," Chloe replied smoothly.


    "Rent?" Emily thought with disdain, her eyes scanning the three gowns once more. Me, renting a gown? For my birthday party. I have two other gowns, each tailor-made just for me. How could I possibly wear a rented dress?


    Chloe added. "Though, only two are avable. The one in the middle has already been rented out by Mrs. Carnegie."


    Emily''s eyes widened as she quickly realized who Chloe meant "Mrs. Carnegie? You mean the Carnegie family, one of the three most prestigious families in Denex?"


    "That''s right, Chloe said.


    Folding her arms with a huff, Hannah scoffed, "The Carnegies are loaded. Why on earth would Mrs. Carnegie need to rent a gown? If you''re going to lie, at least make it believable."


    Her words, though rude, mirrored Emily''s doubts.


    "Suit yourself." Chloe''s tone cooled as she dismissed their skepticism, no longer interested in indulging their disbelief


    Just as Hannah was about to open her mouth for a furious retort, the sound of heels clicking against the marble floor turned their attention to the staircase once again. Down came Bethany Carnegie herself, looking as regal as a queen. Her presence radiated wealth and influence.


    "Chloe, I''ll be heading out. Don''t forget to have my gown delivered in a few days, Bethany said with a contented smile. Tve had my eye on that gown for ages. It''s from the same collection as the one worn by that Yosk royal family member, right? At seventy thousand dors a day, it''s worth every penny."


    "Mrs. Carnegie... It''s really her." Emily''s face froze, her mind spinning. She had seen Bethany before at the charity auction, but the reality of the situation had just pped her in the face.


    Hannah, on the other hand, hadn''t met Bethany, but from Emily''s expression, she quickly realized this was no act. She could practically feel the embarrassment creeping up her neck like a blush she couldn''t hide. Thankfully, Bethany hadn''t overheard her earlier remarks.


    Chloe apanied Bethany to the door, her polite smile unwavering as she saw her off


    Oner Bethany had disappeared from view, Emily''s thoughts began to shift. If someone as powerful as Mrs. Canegie can rent a gown for her high society events, why can''t I Even celebrities rent their red carpet gowns, don''t they? Chapter 16


    With this new line of thinking, she rxed. Td like to rent that one, Emily sail, pointing to the whitece gown with gold


    The gown''s neckline and bodice were adorned with delicate ivory pearls, and what caught Emily''s attention most was how closely it resembled the gown from the charity auction she''d been eyeing.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    Chloe handed her a contract. "Please fill in your details. No deposit is necessary, but any damage to the gown will result in full pricepensation


    Emily skimmed through the document before signing her name on the final page.


    Once the two left. Chloe ascended the stairs once more, contract in hamil.


    Upstairs was a design studio, where Ophelia satfortably on a plush sofa, dressed in an all-ck dress, nibbling on a pastry from a delivery box while ying chess against herself. Despite her youthful appearance, there was a calm maturity about her that didn''t belong to someone of her age.


    "Everything''s signed and settled, Chloe announced, her tone strictly professional as she handed over the contract.


    "Good," Ophelia replied, her eyes sparkling with satisfaction. She spoke with the spoon still in her mouth, her smile bright and carefree.


    On the chessboard in front of her, a lone pawn was positioned to challenge the king


    Beside the boardy a DNA test report, the truth printed boldly across its pages.


    As expected, Emily was indeed Owen''s illegitimate daughter. The mystery that had lingered in Ophelia''s heart in herst life had finally been unraveled.


    At the same time, a video was going viral online entitled "Hall family heiress runs her mouth-poor people should stick to street food, they don''t belong in fancy restaurants."


    The clip sparked a frenzy of discussion across the inte. Within no time, eagle-eyedizens had tracked down the restaurant in question-none other than a high-end chain owned by the Hall family.


    Comments flooded in. "Ah, so it''s that ce. I went there once-they imed their desserts were Michelin-level, but the cream was terrible, and the quality was a joke."


    Another chimed in, "I ate there once and found a fly in my food."


    Someone else added, "With prices that high, you''d think they''d keep the flies out. d I''m broke. Never heard of this ce, and now I''m never going."


    Morements piled on. "Disgusting. They make money off us and look down on us? Insulting their customers? Let''s see how long they stay open. They better start preparing for bankruptcy."


    Someizensmented, "Agreed. Let''s see them close up shop for good."


    The situation quickly spiraled out of control. Soon, people were sharing pictures of unsanitary food served at the chain, while others used the brand of false advertising. The heat attracted the attention of market regtors, whounched an investigation into thepany.


    Meanwhile, a group of anti-rich protesters, their faces covered with ski masks, stormed one of the restaurants and smashed the windows. The Hall family was suddenly caught in the eye of a public rtions hurricane.


    Hannah, blissfully unaware of the growing scandal, was out shopping for handbags with Emily when her phone rang. She nced at the screen and saw it was her father, George Hall. "Hey, Dad," she answered casually, holding hertest purchase in one hand, "Where the hell are you? George''s voice boomed on the other end, filled with anger.


    "I''m just shopping with a friend, Hannah replied, oblivious to his fury.


    George clenched the phone so hard he nearly snapped it in two. How did I raise such a spoiled idiot? he bellowed inwardly


    "Do you even know what you''ve done?" George growled, his voice barely controlled. "Get your ass home. Now."


    5:44 PM


    Confused and not quite understanding the gravity of the situation, Hannah hailed a cab and headed home. The moment she stepped through the door, George stormed toward her, and before she could react, he pped her across the face so hard she stumbled back "You useless, good-for-nothing brat!" he roared, his face twisted with rage. "Do you have any idea what you''ve done? You''re ruining ourpany, and you''re out shopping?"


    He snatched the shopping bags from her hands and hurled them at her. One of the handbag''s sharp corners struck her on the head, instantly raising a bump and knocking loose a few strands of her perfectly styled hair.


    "Dad, what the hell? What did I even do? Hannah''s eyes welled up with tears as she tried to defend herself, her voice shaking with a mix of confusion and indignation.


    George was livid. "You stupid, careless moron. Do you even know what kind of mess you''ve caused out there? Thanks to your big mouth, two of our restaurants have been shut down."


    "L...What did I say?" Hannah asked,pletely bewildered.


    George shoved a phone into her hands, his face flushed with fury. Hannah stared at the screen and watched in horror as the video yed the very one of her insulting Ophelia in the restaurant earlier that day while standing up for Emily.


    She hadpletely forgotten about that moment. Now, seeing her words reyed on screen, magnified by the Inte''s scrutiny, it hit her like a ton of bricks and she finally realized what she had done.


    Scrolling through thements, she saw nothing but waves of hate directed at her. To make matters worse, the news had broken that two of the Hall family''s restaurants had been shut down for health code vitions, and the rest of their locations were suddenly empty, with no customers in sight.


    ''Health code vitions?'' she thought bitterly, seething with rage. "What does that have to do with me?'' But she didn''t dare say it out loud. Instead, as she read through the angryments, her hatred for Ophelia grew. In Hannah''s mind, all of this was Ophelia''s fault and everything had spiraled out of control because of her.

 Jilted Bride 17

    Til handle the PR and get that video taken down immediately. As for you, you''re grounded for the entire summer George snatched the phone from Hannah''s trembling hands, his voice brimming with fury as he pointed at her usingly. Hannah cowered under his rage, her face already bruised and swollen, with a nasty bump forming on her head from the earlier altercation. She looked utterly defeated, no longer the pampered socialite she always imagined herself to be "And once I get in touch with the woman involved, you will go and apologize. Got it?" George bellowed,


    "Why should I?" Hannah shot back, her voice wavering but defiant. "I''m not apologizing to that bitch. She was the one who bullied Emily."


    George raised his hand again as if to strike, but then stopped, something in her tone catching his attention. He realized she seemed to know the person behind the video. "I''m giving you one more chance, Hannah. Tell me exactly what happened today." Reluctantly, Hannah spilled the details, though her ount was less than ttering.


    George quickly pieced it together. The video had been posted by Heather and Owen''s "adopted daughter. The rtionship between the Hall and Hastings families had never been particrly warm, but they had managed to maintain a superficial politeness over the years. He even remembered seeing Ophelia from a distance at her reunion party-the Hastings family had certainly put on a grand show, though George hadn''t been impressed by the girl.


    Now, with the source of the trouble clearer, George''s anger subsided just enough for him to plot his next move.From N?velDrama.Org.


    That very evening, he packed up a few extravagant gifts, and, with his wife Lydia Hall and a still-fuming Hannah in tow, they made their way to Hastings Vi.


    When they arrived, Owen was conveniently away on a business trip, leaving Heather to deal with the matter on her own. Georgeunched into his story, presenting it with an air of calm detachment, glossing over the nastier details while pushing the gifts toward Heather. "Heather, your adopted daughter certainly has quite the spirit. I can''t say I don''t admire her tenacity. "But as you can imagine, this little incident has caused our family a great deal of trouble. I''m here to offer my apologies on behalf of Hannah. Could you maybe have her ept the apology and clear things up? A small statement would make all the difference, don''t you think?"


    As George spoke, his polite smile barely concealed the venom bubbling beneath. In his mind, he was already cursing Ophelia''s audacity, thinking, Who does this girl think she is, causing such a mess? If it weren''t for the Hastings family backing her, she wouldn''t dare!


    Heather, caught off guard, tried to smooth things over and told the truth. "George, Lydia, there''s something you may not know. That girl-Ophelia-she''s been a nightmare since we brought her into the family. We''ve actually cut ties with her. She''s no longer part of our family," she sighed.


    But George wasn''t buying it. His smile turned cold as he rose to his feet, brushing off his pants before giving his knee a loud p. I see how it is, Heather. You''re not willing to forgive us and help us out. Well then, I guess I''ve wasted my time.


    "But don''t worry about the gifts. Take them. No need to be shy, After all, your family is lucky to have raised such an outstanding young woman."


    To George, Heather''s words were nothing more than a poor excuse to protect Ophelia and a p to the Hall family''s face. He was even convinced that the Hastings family was behind the entire fiasco, using Hannah''s misstep to drag his family down. In his mind, Heather was scheming, hiding behind her adopted daughter to make things difficult for them.


    Heather could only ster on a smile and offer weak reassurances, though George had already made up his mind. Once the Halls had left, she returned inside with herposure cracking. Her face twisted in frustration, and she stormed back into the house, furious with Ophelia.


    In her mind, Heather had cursed Ophelia at least a hundred times over. Heather kept thinking that nothing had gone right for her since Ophelia hade back into her life. Now, she felt like she had been humiliated in front of the Halls, left to handle. this mess alone because of Ophelia.


    5:44 PM c c


    Frustrated, Heather considered calling Owen to discuss the situation. But when she tried his number, it went straight to voicemail. He had turned off his phone, leaving her to fend for herself.


    Over the next few days, the scandal only grew online. Despite George''s frantic attempts to repair the situation-issuing apology statements, trying to prove thepany''s innocence-the Hall family''s reputation took a sharp nosedive. Their business faltered, and stock prices plummeted.


    George, however, wasn''t the type to take responsibility; he med every bit of it on the Hastings family.


    As for Hannah, her punishment was severe. Not only was she banned from going out, but she was also forbidden from attending Emily''s birthday party at Evend Hotel, a cruel blow that only deepened her resentment toward Ophelia. In her mind, Ophelia was the root of all her troubles, and Hannah vowed silently to make her pay for every bit of humiliation she''d endured The day of Emily''s grand birthday party finally arrived. Owen had just returned from his business trip, ready to celebrate his daughter in style.


    Originally, he had nned a garden party at their estate. When he heard that Miles had rented out an entire floor of Evend Hotel for the asion, Owen couldn''t resist the opportunity to unt his status. The guest list was packed with business. associates, partners, and the top celebrities from Sungate Entertainment, all there to make Emily''s night unforgettable.


    As the heiress to the Hastings family, Emily wasn''t one to hold back on luxury. She had prepared not one, but three different gowns for the night.


    The venue itself was a visionvish, romantic, with fresh pink roses cascading up the grand staircase.


    In the makeup room, Emily sat surrounded by Sungate Entertainment''s top styling team, who buzzed around her like bees. They were putting the finishing touches on her first look of the evening-a breathtaking evening gown from La Reverie. Adorned with a cascading train of pearls and delicate fringe that flirted with the floor, the gown hugged her waist perfectly. Daring slits revealed her beautiful, slender legs, bncing elegance and allure with a touch of youthful innocence. "Wow, Emily, you look like an absolute dream, one of her friends gushed, eyes wide with envy and admiration.


    Emily soaked up the attention, basking in the glow of her friends praise. Since Hannah was absent from the party, no one knew that the gown was actually a rental-a secret that suited Emily just fine. It let her bask in the admiration without any awkward questions. Suddenly, someone in the group remarked, "Hey, doesn''t this gown look kind of familiar?


    "Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. Willow chimed in, narrowing her eyes as she scrutinized the gown. "Isn''t this the gown auctioned off at the Carnegie family charity g?"


    Someone suddenly asked, "Wait a minute, wasn''t that the La Reverie gown that sold for seven million dors? I remember hearing that Keh Sinir, the head of the Sinir family, bought it. Could it be...


    Whispers spread like wildfire, and it didn''t take long for everyone to jump to the same conclusion. Jealousy flickered behind the smile but so did amazement. A lot of them were thinking. ''Is Keh pursuing Emily? And gifting her such an extravagant gown worth seven million dors? It was almost too unbelievable for them to fathom.


    Though Keh was rumored to be disabled, the mere thought of his interest in Emily left people in awe.


    Meanwhile, Emily kept herposure, pretending not to hear the whispers but secretly reveling in the effect she was having on everyone. This was precisely what she had wanted.


    Sure, people knew about her connection with Miles, but she had never openly discussed their rtionship.


    The mystery of it all only added to the allure, and now, hearing them specte about Keh and the extravagant gown, she let herself slip into the fantasy that Keh had indeed gifted it to her. Even after all this time, the mere thought of the sharp. enigmatic Keh made her heart race.


    She believed that she was the only one who knew his secret-Keh wasn''t disabled.


    Staring at her reflection in the mirror, Emily''s thoughts wandered. He must not have noticed me that day, she told herself in


    her mind. "That''s why he had me thrown into the fountain...It must be


    Once Emily''s makeup was done, Heather entered the room, her eyes softening as she looked at the daughter she had so carefully raised, her heart swelling with pride.


    "My beautiful girl, you look absolutely stunning," she said, squeezing Emily''s hand lovingly. "Seeing you like this, I can already imagine how gorgeous you''ll look on your wedding day. I don''t know how I''ll ever be ready to let you go."


    "Mom, it''s just a birthday party, not a wedding, Emilyughed, though her marriage wasn''t so distant in her mind.


    "If anyone''s going to marry me, she mused, ''it''ll be the most powerful man in Heloria. I really wish Keh could show up tonight...


    As night fell and the party began, the soft strains of music filled the air, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. Then, suddenly, the lights dimmed, and the music shifted to the soft melody of a piano ying "Happy Birthday". A spotlight flickered on, illuminating the top of the grand staircase.


    There stood Emily, arm in arm with Heather, her gown flowing gracefully behind her as they descended the staircase lined with pink roses. Her entrance was pure magic, every step slow and deliberate,manding attention.


    Behind them, arge screen disyed a montage of home videos-snippets of Emily''s childhood, showing her growing up year by year.


    Owen stood at the bottom of the stairs and watched Emily walk down, beaming with pride as guests congratted him, the joy radiating from his face.


    Harry and Nathan watched their sister with protective adoration, their hearts full as they witnessed the little girl they''d known. blossom into the center of attention.

 Jilted Bride 18

    Miles stepped forward gracefully, giving Heather a polite nod before taking Emily''s hand. Together, they made their way to the dance floor, the center of attention as they began the first dance. The room buzzed with envy as every eye in the ballroom followed their steps. "Emily, happy birthday. You look stunning tonight, Miles whispered in her ear, his hand resting gently on her slender waist. pulling her close.


    "Thank you..." Emily blushed faintly, lowering her guze as she shed a shy smile. But she kept a small distance between them, a subtle but deliberate gesture.


    Miles couldn''t shake the feeling that something had changed between them after that charity auction. Emily seemed distant, more reserved, but he couldn''t tell if it was just his imagination or something deeper.


    After the dance, Owen and Heather took the stage. Owen, holding a microphone, smiled warmly at the guests before thanking everyone foring. Then, with a proud expression, he invited Emily to join them on stage.


    "Emily, your mother and I have a special gift for you," Owen announced, holding up two sets of share transfer agreements Three percent of Hastings Group shares and thirty-five percent of Sungate Entertainment shares. From today on, you''ll be the first in charge of Sungate Entertainment


    Although Emily had already known for days what her father''s gift would be, she yed her role perfectly, her eyes wide with surprise as if she had just heard the news. Her expression was one of pure disbelief.


    "Thank you, Daddy," she eximed, throwing her arms around Owen''s neck before turning to hug Heather. Tears welled up Emily''s eyes, giving her the appearance of someone overwhelmed with emotion, though deep down, there was nothing but cold indifference. For years, she had believed she was only an adopted daughter of Owen and Heather, always insecure and on edge, especially after Ophelia was found and returned to the fold. Emily had been forced to tread carefully, fearful of her position.


    in


    But once she learned she was Owen''s biological daughter, her feelings shifted from shock to anger, even resentment. She felt that she deserved this and more. After all, she had lived as a foster child for twenty years. She figured that this was only the beginning of what they owed her.


    Down below, the other young heiresses in the crowd watched with envious eyes. While most of them were still in college, scraping by on a monthly allowance of mere tens of thousands, Emily was being handed shares in two family businesses. The jealousy was palpable. Next, Harry and Nathan stepped forward with their gifts. Harry presented her with a limited edition diamond watch, while Nathan gifted her a stunning crystal tiara. When he ced it on her head, it was like a coronation, and Emily stood there, regal, basking in the adoration.


    "Emily, this is my gift to you, Miles said as he approached with a dark blue velvet box. When he opened it, the room collectively gasped-it was a five-carat pink diamond ne.


    Emily covered her mouth in astonishment, her eyes lighting up with delight. The crowd was buzzing


    "Emily''s so lucky, isn''t she? someone whispered.


    "She really is. With such doting parents, two loving brothers, and now a suitor like Mr. Lewis, it''s like she''s won the lottery in life, another remarked.


    Miles''s brow furrowed slightly at the word ''suitor. If it weren''t for the fact that Emily was about to enter the entertainment industry and needed to keep her rtionships discreet for now, he would''ve imed his ce by her side publicly right then and there.


    He personally sped the ne around Emily''s neck, and she felt as if she were floating on air. Everything about the moment felt surreal, like she was on top of the world.


    Taking the microphone, Emily stood at the center of the stage, surrounded by her family and Miles. Her voice was sweet, filled with gratitude as she thanked everyone for their love and support. Her eyes shone with a mixture of emotion-excitement. joy, and a touch of something deeper that she kept hidden behind her perfect smile. Chapter 15


    But just as she was speaking, something unexpected happened. The giant screen behind her flickered, and suddenly, it switched to the Evend Hotel security camera footage.


    "Huh? What''s going on?" someone in the crowd murmured. "Did the hotel mess up the feed?" Confused whispers spread through the audience, while those on stage, including Emily, continued to talk, oblivious to the silent chaos unfolding behind


    them.


    The surveince footage began to roll, showing a woman in a champagne-colored evening gown pushing open the door to a private room. Inside the room, seated in a wheelchair, was a man whose face couldn''t be seen clearly. But even from the slight angle of his figure, it was obvious that he was no ordinary man-his presence wasmanding, unmistakably someone of great importance.


    Within less than thirty seconds, two bodyguards appeared, each grabbing one of the woman''s arms and dragging her out of


    the room.


    As she struggled her face came into full view. To the crowd''s shock, it was none other than Emily-the same Emily who, at that very moment, was standing on stage, radiant in her tiara and looking ever so demure.


    A wave of gasps and murmurs rippled through the crowd. Emily, sensing something was terribly wrong, finally turned to look at the screen behind her. There, in full rity, the footage yed out, showing her being tossed into the fountain outside the hotel. Turn it off... Turn it off, now!" Emily''s voice, usually soft and delicate, cracked into a scream, her face twisted with terror.


    The hotel staff scrambled to shut off the screen, but it was as if theputer had been hacked-it refused to respond. The video kept ying, much to Emily''s horror.


    "Isn''t that the surveince footage from Evend Hotel? Wasn''t that the same grown Emily wore at the auction two weeks ago? And that man in the room... Could that be Keh?" someone in the crowd whispered.


    "Wait, what''s going on! Isn''t Keh supposed to be pursuing Emily?" another chimed in their curiosity piqued.


    "Yeah. I heard Emily''s gown tonight was avish gift from Keh for a whopping seven million dors," someone else added, excitement bubbling in their voice.


    "Come on, it can''t be the same grown. The Hastings family doesn''t have the clout to get close to the Sinir family. Didn''t you see how Emily was kicked out of Keh''s private room right after she walked in?" a skeptic shot back, crossing her arms in disbelief. The hall was alive with hushed conversations and pointed fingers. Emily had always been the subject of envy, but now, with this video exposing her to the world, the snide remarks came in full force,pletely unchecked.


    The video, captured by the hotel''s surveince cameras, yed on the screen with unsettling rity.


    Unlike the grainy clips circting online earlier, this angle left no room for denial. Emily''s face was perfectly visible, and the entire sequence yed out so smoothly that any attempt to refute it would be futile.


    The footage captured every moment-from Emily confidently walking into Keh''s private room to the humiliating scene of her being forcibly removed. There was no escaping the truth now that there was this evidence. The clip concluded with a jarring "Happy Birthday'' graphic, apanied by a shower of animated fireworks, turning the moment from celebratory to a cruel twist of fate.


    "Who did that? Shut it off, now! Owen roared, his voice booming through the room, while chaos erupted on stage.


    Harry rushed forward, yanking the power cord from the screen, but it was toote. The video had already yed to the end and the damage had already been done.


    Nathan, ever protective, wrapped an arm around Emily and faced the crowd. "Please, don''t get the wrong idea. This video was obviously staged by someone jealous of Emily."


    Heather tried to keep herposure, but her attempt at a smile faltered. "That''s right. My daughter. She would never... she stammered


    But in the face of such damning evidence, their words seemed hollow, powerless against the cold truth ying out on the


    screen moments earlier


    $45 PM ct c


    Miles stood aside, his expression unreadable as he stared at the distraught Emily. She was still the same woman he had known, but something about her felt foreign as if she had be a stranger overnight. Ophelia''s words echoed in his mind, "Maybe she''s found someone else, seeing as how useless you are..."


    The video left little to question. There was nothing else that could exin why Emily had gone to Keh''s private room that night.


    Emily noticed the change in Miles'' demeanor, her heart sinking. She opened her mouth to exin, but he didn''t give her the chance. Miles had already made up his mind, and right now, all he wanted was to leave. "Miles..." Emily called out in a panic.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    But he shook off her hand, storming off the stage without a second nce. Emily, in desperation, rushed after him, oblivious to everything else happening around her.


    Just then, a loud ripping sound echoed through the hall, cutting through the noise. Emily froze, horrified as she realized what had just happened-Nathan had identally stepped on the long train of her grown, tearing it from thigh to underarm in one swift motion.


    Within seconds, the entire gown fell apart, leaving Emily standing in the middle of the avenue, her body exposed for all to see. Even the color of her undergarments was inly visible, adding to her humiliation.


    "Ah!" Emily shrieked, frantically grabbing at the torn fabric to cover herself. Her tiara slipped from her head, crashing to the floor and shattering into pieces, like the remnants of her once perfect image.


    The room fell silent, stunned by the sheer spectacle of it all. Emily, who had just moments ago stood proudly at the center of attention, was now a figure ofplete ruin.

 Jilted Bride 19

    Chapter


    19


    The grand venue was in absolute chaos. Emily, standing at the center of it all, looked like a clown trapped in a circus ring surrounded by an audience that didn''t bother hiding their judgment.


    Some even whipped out their phones, snapping pictures without mercy. Owen, her father, was quick to rush over, draping his suit jacket around Emily''s shoulders in a feeble attempt to shield her from further humiliation. This party is over," he announced, his voice tight with embarrassment.


    Harry summoned the security team, trying to usher the crowd out as quickly as possible. What had started as a morous birthday celebration had turned into a public disaster.


    Just then, a server appeared, wheeling out an enormous eight-tiered cake, the words "Happy Birthday, Emily. May all your wishese true iced across the top in pristine, elegant letters,


    The birthday song yed once again, but this time, the tone felt painfully ironic-a cruel echo of how things were supposed


    to be.


    Evend Hotel''s unique circr architecture made it easy for Ophelia to observe everything from the balcony on the third floor. She satfortably, nibbling at a delicate pastry, watching the spectacle below with an almost imperceptible smirk. "Happy birthday, Emily, she whispered, her voiceced with amusement. She knew Emily''s ploys all too well. Trying to stir rumors with my man? Did you ask for my permission?


    Although Miles had supposedly rented out the entire floor for Emily''s party, the unpaid bill still loomed over them.


    As Owen and his family made their hasty retreat, the hotel manager hurried after them, holding out an imposing bill. "Mr. Hastings, the total for tonightes to 310 thousand dors. Also, 170 thousand for the roses, and 3 million for venue rental and service charges. Altogether, that''s 3.71 million dors."


    "What?" Owen''s face turned ashen, the bill nearly sending him into a fit of cardiac arrest. Not only had they failed to maintain. any sense of dignity, but they were facing an outrageous cost,


    As she watched the Hastings family''s disarray, Ophelia''s smile deepened, a satisfied glint in her eyes. This is only the beginning,'' she thought, savoring the small victory


    After leaving Evend Hotel, Ophelia hailed a taxi and headed to arge amusement park nestled in the western suburbs. After purchasing a ticket, she wandered leisurely through the park, enjoying the night air and asionally hopping onto one of the rides. Soaking up the joyful atmosphere ofughter and excitement, she picked up a free balloon here and a free slice of cake there.


    At 10 p.m. sharp, a countdown began, and the excitement in the crowd grew, Three, two, one... Fireworks exploded into the night sky, painting it with bursts of vibrant red, blue, and golden illuminating the world below in fleeting brilliance. Each burst seemed to pulse with life as if the stars themselves hade to celebrate.


    Ophelia stood there, her angelic face bathed in the shimmering glow, her eyes wide as she gazed up at the spectacle. She then closed her eyes and silently made a wish. The lights danced on her face, flickering like tiny embers of hope.


    By the time she left the park, it was already past eleven.


    She stopped by a convenience store, picking up a few cans of beer and a pack of candies, before setting off on a long, quiet walk down the empty streets. In the distance, she could faintly hear the sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore. She was getting close.


    The further she walked, the narrower the road became, the soft glow of streetlights facting into darkness until there was nothing but shadows.


    The closer she got to the sea, the stronger the pungent smell of rotting fish and bring water became, an odor so overpowering it would make most people retch. But for Ophelia, it was a familiar scent-one she had known her whole life.


    At the end of the road stood a long, crumbling concrete wall, half of it copsed into rubble. Ophelia climbed up and perched herself on the edge, gazing out at the dark sea in the distance.


    A few old fishing boats bobbed in the water, their lights long extinguished. Along the shore were makeshift shacks constructed


    from scrap metal and tattered fabric, looking more like ruins than homes.


    This was the westside slum, the ce Ophelia had called home for as long as she could remember.


    Gabrielle once told her that, a hundred years ago, this area had been the heart of Denex''s thriving coast-close to the docks and bustling with life.


    But a remation project decades ago had turned the ce into a cesspool of pollution. The harbor reeked of decayed fish and toxic waste, leaving thend useless, unwanted. Eventually, it became a dumping ground, a forgotten slum where no one dared to invest or even set foot. They said the materials used to reim thend were poisonous, leaving thend contaminated and unfit for development. No one dared to return, and over time, it had morphed into the worst slum in Denex.


    It was hard to believe that a city as vibrant and modern as Denex could have such a neglected, squalid corner. Just across the way, skyscrapers gleamed with light, standing tall against the night, while here, everything was consumed by darkness and dampness. The stark contrast made the reality even more jarring


    Ophelia cracked open a can of beer, took a swig, and unwrapped a piece of candy, popping it into her mouth. "Happy birthday, Ophelia," she muttered to herself, the words slipping out as if they held no weight


    This was her first birthday since Heather told her she and Emily shared the same birth date after she was brought back to the family, making her the elder sister-at least, in title. Heather made it clear that she ought to take care of Emily


    Herst life had given her five years of this bitter celebration. At first, she had been thrilled to know her own birthday finally, but it soon became clear that no one else remembered or even cared


    Everyone''s attention was always on Emily. All anyone cared about was that it was Emily''s day. Gifts piled up for her, while Ophelia waited in the shadows, sneaking a piece of cake after Emily blew out her candles.


    Lifting her drink toward the night sky, she whispered, "Ophe, in this life, be happy. Don''t let yourself down. Don''t let him down... The bitterness in her heart mingled with the sharp taste of beer as she took a long drink.


    Four cans in, and she was still sober. Ophelia could hold her liquor better than most, but now, her thoughts drifted back to Gabrielle-the only person who had ever treated her like family.


    If she had never seen the sun, she could''ve been content in the darkness. If she had never known love, perhaps she wouldn''t have spent herst life yearning for it. Blood ties didn''t mean family; she understood that now, after everything


    Her eyes burned, her throat tightened, but she refused to cry. She shoved the rest of the candy into her mouth, thinking bitterly. "Why doesn''t it taste as sweet as the ones Gabrielle used to buy?Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "So much sugar? Aren''t you worried it''ll rot your teeth?" A voice cut through the quiet night, low and teasing.


    "What?" Ophelia jolted, startled. Turning her head, she saw the impossibly handsome face of Keh emerging from the shadows, the moonlight casting a soft glow around him, making him look almost otherworldly.


    "You.. Why are you here?" she mumbled through a mouthful of candy, cheeks puffed out like a squirrel storing nuts. Her voice came out garbled, and she shook her head, wondering if she was seeing things. Am I hallucinating? Why would Keh be here of all ces? Her head felt heavy, and her body swayed as she lost her bnce, leaning backward. Before she could fall, a strong hand caught her, steadying her as Keh effortlessly pulled himself up to sit beside her on the crumbling wall, one hand bracing against the rough concrete. Ophelia chewed furiously, forcing the candy down as her eyes met Keh''s piercing, predatory gaze. For some reason, guili prickled at her skin. She had no idea why she felt that way, but it was like he could see straight through her. Fumbling for something to say, the wordlessly opened herst can of beer and thrust it toward him with a yful smile. "Want


    some?"


    "Do you have a death wish?" Keh''s words were clipped. his eyes narrowing at the empty cans around her. She''d already downed four?" His irritation spiked, but a part of him grudgingly admired her tolerance.


    When he didn''t take the can, Ophelia shrugged and brought it back to her lips, the darkness helping her ignore the stern look on his face. "I''m not trying to die. It''s taken me long enough just to get to this point in my life, she quipped. tipping her head 5.45 PM ? ?


    back for another gulp.


    Keh reached out and snatched the can from her, downing it in one go before crushing it effortlessly in his hand "Borgh We''re going home. Now."


    "Nope," Ophelia replied, shaking her head. "I want to stay. I''m waiting for the sunrise


    Keh, known for his icy demeanor, found himself uncharacteristically patient, though his irritation simmered just below. the surface. Just as he was about to insist again, Ophelia''s head slumped against his shoulder, her breath warm against his nerk "Stay with me, Keh," she murmured, her voice softened by the alcohol, "I want you to watch the sunrise with me?


    Ophelia, with a faint hint of intoxication, grew holder. Without warning, she wrapped her arms around his waist, nestling her face against his chest. "I''m cold... hold me, she whispered, her breath hitching slightly as she cuddled closer.


    Her soft body pressed against him, her head nuzzling against his chest, was almost too much. Keh''s heart pounded as though he''d just run a race, the calm mask he wore cracking for a moment.


    For a moment, he froze, his hands braced against the wall, unsure how to react. He allowed her to cling to him, feeling the warmth of her body against his own. Then, his sharp voice broke through the stillness,ced with a mix of irritation and concern.


    "Cold? You''re out here in the middle of the night, and you''re surprised you''re freezing? If you freeze out here, you''d deserve it His voice was rough, but he couldn''t stop himself from wrapping one arm around her, pulling her in tight as he shrugged off his ck trench coat and bundled it around her small frame.

 Jilted Bride 20

    Ophelia clung to Keh, her arms wrapped tightly around him like a lifeline, the warmth of his body providing a fragile Ishield against the cool night air.


    "Grandma." she murmured softly, her words slipping in and out of coherence as if she were suspended between the realms of dream and reality. Her voice was delicate, a whisper barely audible against the backdrop of the distant hum of the city. Keh cradled her gently in his arms, moving with a tender grace as he carried her back to the car. The night wrapped around them like a soft nket, the world outside fading into an unimportant blur. They spent the entire night cocooned in that vehicle. the low hum of the city in the distance.


    As dawn broke, the horizon began to awaken, spilling soft pale hues of gold andvender across the sky. Ophelia stirred from her slumber, her brow furrowing slightly before her eyes fluttered open. Through the windshield, she caught sight of the sunrise.


    She''d seen sunrises over the slums before, but this one felt different-almost as if she were in another lifetime. Keh hadn''t slept a wink. His voice, low and cold, sliced through the silence. "You''ve seen it. Now let''s go home." The sharpness of his tone sent a shiver through her, pulling her from the warmth. She''d barely had a glimpse of the sun. But Keh wasn''t asking for permission. He started the engine without waiting for a response, and the car roared to life. tearing down the road as if the very air of the ce suffocated him. The engine''s growl was loud in the quiet dawn, the speed making it clear that staying another second here was unbearable for him.


    "Of course, she thought. A man like Keh could never stand a ce like this. It''s almost like his body rejects the slums on


    instinct.


    "Don''te back to ces like this again," he said, his voice gruff withmand. "You''re mine now. You don''t need to live that old life anymore. Understand?"


    ''Old life? Does he even know what my life was like? Ophelia bit her lip. nodding quietly like a child caught doing something wrong, her gaze fixed on her shoes. She was still wrapped in Keh''s coat, its weightforting yet foreign.


    Keh had spent the entire night with a deep, aching pain in his chest. He couldn''t shake the memory of her clinging to him the night before, her fragile voice breaking through the silence as she murmured, "Keh, you''re all I have left. Can we have a baby? I want a family..."


    Then, out of nowhere, shed whispered something that had stabbed at his heart. "Do you know what my birthday was as a kid! June 1st. I used to pretend Children''s Day was my birthday because the amusement park would give our free balloons and little cakes. Now I know all that stuff was just for people who could pay the entrance fee."


    She let out a bitterugh, the memory stinging. "Back then, when I was sad or hurt, Grandma would always give me a few pieces of candy and say, Elia, sweetheart, eat this and the pain will go away. But I''ve eaten so much candy, and it still hurts. Keh. It still hurts. That old woman was a liar.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    "She promised she''d watch me grow up, but she didn''t. She left me. She kept lying to me, saying we had enough money. making clothes for people even when she could barely see, just to keep me in school. And then she died, and I had no one. No one but you, Keh. Please, never leave me. Don''t die. Stay with me. I''m begging you..."


    Keh''s chest tightened painfully, the weight of her words suffocating him. Just thinking about it made it hard to breathe. "Ophelia, if I ever catch you drinking again, I''ll definitely make you learn your lesson."


    Ophelia blinked, confused. What''s gotten into him? It''s barely morning, and he''s already in a foul mood.


    Keh could never forget the sight of her as a four-year-old little girl, rummaging through garbage cans for food, her small, dirty hands clutching a moldy piece of bread. She''d torn off the worst part and handed the rest to him. "Here, eat this."


    Suddenly, Keh mmed on the brakes. The car skidded to a halt, and he sat there, his hands gripping the wheel, his knuckles white. His eyes were bloodshot, his breathing in ragged gasps.


    Without a word, he reached over, grabbed Ophelia''s shoulder, and pulled her into his arms with a force that almost crushed her. It was as though he wanted to merge her into his very being, to hold her so tightly that nothing could ever take her away from burn. Chapter 20


    Ophelia overwhelmed by his sudden intensity, wondered, ''Did I punch himst night after drinking? Why is he holding me so right? Does he want to squeeze the life out of me?


    "Keh, L... I promise, I won''t drink again if that''s what you want. Just Before she could finish, his lips crashed down on hers, cutting off her words.


    She tried to keep her mouth shut, embarrassed by the lingering taste of beer fromst night, but Keh was relentless. His lips moved against hers with a fierce intensity, his breath mingling with hers as his nose brushed against hers in a tender yet possessive way, The air inside the car grew thick with unspoken emotions, the tension between them almost palpable, swirling like a storm that neither could control.


    "When you shared half your bread with me back then, I vowed to protect you for a lifetime." Keh''s voice was gravelly, his tone a mixture of tenderness and determination.


    Ophelia, still lost in the lingering effect of his kiss, felt her whole body tingling, her senses dulled. "What? What did you just say?" she asked, her voice a little hazy from the intensity of the moment.


    "Nothing" Keh replied, releasing her and sitting upright with a nonchnce that almost felt cold. He looked like one of those men who pretended that nothing had happened after they got what they wanted. Starting the engine again, he threw out another warning. "If you ever drink again, I''ll surely make you regret it. Got it?"


    He said it like he was scolding a child.


    Ophelia was speechless, rolling her eyes internally. ''Didn''t he already say that once? She took a deep breath and, just to tease him, replied with a yful smirk, "Fine. I won''t even drink at our wedding reception."


    Keh nced at her sideways. In a hurry, are we?"


    "Huh. Ophelia replied.


    "In a hurry to make it official?" Keh asked again.


    Even though she was technically married to him only in name, they hadn''t gotten a marriage license or had a wedding. To Keh, Ophelia''sment felt like a hint, as though she was pressing him for something more official.


    Ophelia was speechless again. In herst life, she and Keh hadn''t spent much time together, and they never developed much of a rapport. This time around, it was still hard for her to get a read on him. His thought process was like a maze she couldn''t quite navigate.


    "Give me some time," Keh said, his voice turning serious.


    He had so much on his te-family rivalries, power ys within his corporation, hidden schemes left and right. Until he could guarantee Ophelia''s safety, he couldn''t risk pulling her deeper into his dangerous world.


    The weight of his words and his unusually serious tone made Ophelia pause, making her straighten up as well.


    She understood his situation. Someday, when she was stronger, when her wings had fully spread, she wouldn''t need his protection anymore. She''d be powerful enough to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with him.


    Tm not in a rush," she replied softly.


    The idea of a wedding wasn''t something she was eager for just yet.


    Keh shot her a cold, sidelong nce. ''Not in a rush?" he thought. ''Last night, you talked about having kids with me, and now you''re not in a hurry? Isn''t that just like women, always unpredictable? Isn''t this the kind of thing where she''s supposed to be demanding a clear answer from me?''


    "You don''t want to marry me?" His voice was ice, and with a sudden, angry motion, he mmed his foot down on the gas pedal.


    The engine roared to life, the speed climbing with a sense of reckless urgency. It almost felt like if she said "no", he''d take them both straight to the grave.


    Ophelia blinked in confusion. "Aren''t we already married?"


    Keh froze for a moment, caught off guard. "What?"


    "She doesn''t know we never signed any papers? he thought, amused. Maybe it''s better this


    Hearing her answer seemed to calm him. The car gradually slowed down the tension of the moment


    Keh smirked, his eyes softening just a touch. He reached over with one hand, ruffing Ophelia''s already messy hair.


    Ophelia let out a small sigh of relief, though inwardly she muttered to herself. This man is so damn unpredictable.


    By the time they returned to Rosewood Manor, the sun was already hanging high in the sky, its golden rays spilling over the lush garden and stone pathways. The manor stood grand and imposing, the sprawling estate bathed in light, though there was a faint chill in the air that hinted at the early morning''s retreat. Mark was sitting in the grand hall, waiting. Keh had gone out alone the night before, forbidding anyone to follow him, so Mark had shown up early at Rosewood Manor, only to find the ce empty.


    When he saw Ophelia walking in draped in Keh''s oversized coat, she looked almost like a child ying grown-up in grown-up clothes. There was even a lingering fishy scent clinging to her. Mark raised an eyebrow, wondering if she''d spent the night out at sea, fishing


    "I''m going to take a shower. Ophelia said, without any more exnation


    By the time she came downstairs. Mark had already left, and Keh was sitting leisurely at the dining table, eating breakfast as if he had all the time in the world.


    Ophelia sat down across from him, biting into her sandwich with gusto, the savory taste bringing her back to life after a long night. She hadn''t realized how hungry she was until she had the food in front of her.


    After breakfast. Ophelia noticed that Keh was in no hurry to leave. Curious, she asked. "Don''t you need to go to the office today?

 Jilted Bride 21

    Keh paused for a moment and then added. "From now on, I''ll spend every weekend with you."


    Ophelia found this a bit strange but was still quite happy about it. After all, Keh didn''te home often, and they''d never really gotten to know each other. Keh kept his eyes fixed on her and studied every little shift in her expression. She could be overlyposed at times, wa too mature for someone at her age.


    It was like nothing could truly excite her. He loved the way she opened up to him and let her guard downst night. It made his heart ache, but it also felt genuine. He wished she could always be his little girl, carefree, vulnerable, and maybe even a little spoiled. "I have to admit you''re way cuter when you''re drunk." Keh said with a smirk before taking a sip of his coffee.


    Ophelia wondered, ''Drunk? He means me? Please, I only had four beersst night. I could have another four and still be fine!


    "So, you''re letting me drink now? How about I crack open another four tonight?" Ophelia quipped with a wink.


    Keh replied with a soft chuckle, "As long as it makes you happy. But remember, you can drink when I''m around. Got it!" He wanted her most unguarded self to be something only he could see.


    Ophelia nodded but couldn''t help thinking, "Didn''t you threaten to break my legs if I drank again? Hmph, what a changeable man."


    The weekend was the first time Ophelia had spent so much time with Keh in one go, and she honestly had no idea what to do. Rosewood Manor had plenty of things to keep them entertained, but they ended up lounging on the sofa instead. Keh worked on his business, while Ophelia sat beside him to watch trashy soap operas. asionally, she''d text Chloe a few lines.


    Outside, the roses swayed gently in the wind, showering the garden with pink petals every now and then.


    "My mother loved roses," Keh suddenly said, breaking the silence. It was the first time he''d ever mentioned her. Ophelia listened carefully and didn''t interrupt him..


    "Roses symbolize longing and love. Who do you think she was longing for?" His long and slender fingers gently ran through her hair as he murmured, "Definitely not that ungrateful man, right?"


    Ophelia didn''t know how to respond. She had heard some gossip about Keh in herst life. The "ungrateful man he was referring to was probably his father.


    "My bad. You shouldn''t have to hear all this, Keh murmured, ruffling her hair before pulling her into his arms.


    Ophelia instinctively wrapped her arms around his waist and said, "Hey, you have me now. Her attempt tofort him was awkward, and as soon as the words left her mouth, her heart started racing.


    Keh tightened his hold on her, just like he did all those years ago when he found her curled up in the snow. Back then, he held her close to keep her warm. He had fought so hard to find her, and he definitely wouldn''t lose her again.From N?velDrama.Org.


    Keh kissed her on the top of her head and breathed in the faint milky scent of her hair. "I''ll give you one more chance. and think it over. If you ever leave me, I can''t promise what I''ll do. So...


    Before he could finish, Ophelia lifted her head and kissed him on the lips, just a quick peck. She then locked eyes with him and said, "Keh, listen, I''ll never leave you. Not in this life-unless I die... Mmmph-


    Keh gripped her head and muffled her words with a kiss, his eyes deepening with desire. "Remember what you said. I gave you a chance," he said with a smirk after the intense kiss.


    The next thing Ophelia knew was that she was scooped up effortlessly and was carried upstairs.


    The door mmed shut behind them with a loud bang. The room filled with the sound of their heavy breathing.


    Chiquer 21


    Even though Ophelia had been through this in herst life, the sensation this time waspletely different. His kisses came crashing down on her and overwhelmed her. In the soft and warm glow of themp, all she could see in his eyes was herself The next morning. Ophelia groaned as she sat up in bed, her lower back aching. She thought to herself. Yeah, the experience might''ve felt different, but his skills are still very much the same.


    She slid off the bed while mumbling, yet her feet barely touched the floor and she copsed onto the fluffy white carpet. For a split second. Ophelia thought she''d been paralyzed-her legs couldn''t even support her. That bastard... This is totally a disaster to me, sheined inwardly.


    Keh walked in just then, carrying a tray of nutritious food. He took one look at her, who clenched her fists and red at him like she was ready to take him down with her. "Regret it, huh? Sorry, toote, he said with a grin.


    He set the breakfast down and strode over to her. He then bent down to scoop her up and carried her to the couch. He sat down and ced her gently on hisp. "I gave you a chancest night." he said while staring into her eyes.


    Ophelia grumbled in her heart. What the hell? How was I supposed to know that was the chance he was talking about? And he sounds a little hurt!! Who on earth is supposed to feel hurt here! It''s me!"


    She blinked her hazy doe eyes and looked up at him, all pitiful and innocent. There was a slight mist in her gaze, making her look so soft and vulnerable that it rugged at his heart.


    Ill go easier next time, alright?" Keh brushed her hair back. his voice filled with gentle affection, his expression sincere.


    Seriously, with Keh being this gentle, no woman could resist him. Ophelia never knew he could be so tender. This version of Keh was already much gentler with her than the one in herst life.


    "Why don''t you have some? Let me feed you, babe Keh said while picking up a bowl of porridge. He carefully scooped some up and blew on it before holding the spoon to her lips.


    "Put me down. I need to go to the bathroom," Ophelia protested.


    "Okay, here we go. Before Ophelia could even protest again, Keh set the bowl down, scooped her up again, and headed. straight for the bathroom.


    "Need my help with anything?" His voice was low, right by her ear, sending a shiver down her spine.


    "No, thanks." She quickly wriggled free. finally feeling her legs again.


    As she mmed the bathroom door shut, Keh''s lips curled into a satisfied, broad smile. She''s finally mine, he thought


    The next day, Keh left Rosewood Manor early in the morning before Ophelia even woke up. After spending thest two nights falling asleep in his arms, Ophelia realized her internal clock had gone haywire. Bad habits really do form easily-it has only been two days, she thought


    Meanwhile, at Hastings Vi....


    After that humiliating scene at the birthday party, Emily locked herself in her room and refused toe out. It had been three days, and no matter who knocked, she wouldn''t answer.


    "My sweet girl, don''t worry about that, okay? Nothing from that night spread out. Come on, just eat something, alright? You''re making me worry sick. Heather stood outside the door with a tray of food, her eyes red from crying.


    Owen banged on the door with a couple of hard knocks and said in a firm voice, "Emily, open the door. Don''t make your mom and me worry


    Owen spent enough money as it was. Sure, he wasn''t happy about what had happened, but Emily was still his daughter, after all, and he couldn''t really do something.


    Even though the event had embarrassed the Hastings family in front of the entire elite crowd, at least thepany didn''t take any hits. Owen thought the priority now was for Emily to exin to Miles as soon as possible-Owen couldn''t afford any misunderstandings with the Lewis family


    There was no sound from the room. Heather, fearing Emily might do something drastic, called someone to break the lock. Emily had locked herself for three days without food, and she could hardly hold out too long.


    A few minutester, the door opened to reveal aplete mess. Chapter 22

 Jilted Bride 22

    Chapter


    22


    Emily sat curled up on her bed and hugged her knees, her head down, her face pale and lifeless. She looked like she''d been dealt a huge blow


    Heather''s heart broke at the sight of her little princess-once so full of life-now reduced to this. She wrapped her arms around Emily and softly whispered words offort, "Honey, I swear, I''ll find out who did this to you. They''ll pay for what they did. But first, eat something, please? Let me feed you."Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Find out who did this? Yeah, right. You''re all talk and no action, Emily thought bitterly.


    Heather called for the maid to bring some porridge and carefully brought a spoonful to Emily''s lips. But Emily turned her head away and kept her mouth tightly shut. She refused to take a single bite


    Heather pleaded with her in tears, Owen, unable to stand watching any longer, dismissed Heather with a few stern words and took the bowl from her. "Emily, is this how you carry yourself as my daughter! You can''t even handle a little setback? Owen said in a serious tone


    Emily''s emotions red as she heard her father''s words. She had been pampered her entire life and had never faced such humiliation


    "It must be Ophelia, that bitch! She''s jealous of everything I have, so she''s trying to destroy me. Dad, why couldn''t I be your only daughter?" Emily''s eyes burned red as she stared at Owen. She couldn''t figure out why she had to share what was hers with someone else, and why Ophelia had topete with her. She wanted Ophelia gone for good.


    for yourself Seeing his daughter so distraught softened Owen''s heart. He sat beside her on the bed and said, "To me, Emily, you are my only daughter. Everything I have will be yours. But first, you gotta win back your dignity. Sitting here feeling sorry isn''t going to fix anything. I know you want to get close to the Sinir family, and I support that."


    Emily''s eyes instantly lit up as she asked, "Really, Dad?"


    "Of course. But first, you need to keep things steady with the Lewis family. Let''s take one step at a time, alright? Come one, cat something, and I''ll tell you what to do next," Owen said with a gentle smile.


    Emily obediently took the bowl and began eating the porridge, her movements robotic. But there was something else- something she was too scared to admit to Owen


    For the next two days, Emily did as her father said, going to work at Sungate Entertainment and learning how to manage thepany. Everything was fine until she got a phone call.


    "Ms. Hastings, the rental period ended a few days ago. We haven''t bothered you about it, but when do you n on returning


    of sarcasm.


    the gown? Chloe''s voice on the other end was strictly respectful and professional, but there was a clear under turning


    The unspoken message was loud and clear: Emily didn''t have any sense of responsibility.


    Emily caught on to Chloe''s implication, but she held back her anger and replied, "I''ve been busytely. I''ll return it in a couple of days."


    "A kind reminder, before Paralet Shopping Center closes tonight, if you still can''t return it, you''ll be hearing from ourwyer,"


    Chloe said in a serious tone.


    Emily stammered, "You-"


    But the call ended abruptly, leaving Emily gripping her phone tightly. Ever since her birthday party, it felt like the whole world had lost respect for her.


    She quickly dialed another number and asked, "Hello? Is my gown fixed yet? You call yourselves professional, but how can it take so long to mend a gown? I''ming to pick it up this afternoon, so hurry up please."


    Later that evening, Emily arrived at La Reverie just as most shops were closing. As she stepped into the store, she noticed familiar figure sitting at the front desk and was sketching on a drawing board. The sound of the pencil scratching across the paper filled the store. "Ophelia Emily eximed as she had a clear look at the person''s face. She hadn''t expected to see Ophelia here, and her grip on the shopping hag tightened.


    Ophelia paused her action and looked up at Emily, her gaze indifferent. "Are you returning the gown?"


    "What are you doing here?" Emily asked, her tone guarded, her eyes filled with barely concealed hatred.


    "I work here," Ophelia replied curtly


    Having been burned by Ophelia before. Emily wasn''t so quick to believe her. She nced around the store, her skepticism clear "What, that old man isn''t treating you well? He''s making you work now?"


    "In your


    world, is relying on a man the only thing that exists?" Ophelia retorted with a cold nce at Emily.


    Emily was left speechless, the sharp retort hitting her like a p in the face.


    Her mind instantly shed back to the humiliating scene at her birthday party. All she''d wanted was to cozy up to Keh, only to be thrown into the fountain and publicly humiliated. And just the other day, she went out of her way to fawn over Miles, desperate for his attention. Ophelia''s words cut deep, striking right at her sore spots.


    "Well, Ophelia. I want to know-were you behind what happened at my birthday party?" Emily snapped, her voice harsher


    Ophelia was so used to Emily''s sarcastic sweet talk that this sudden directness almost felt refreshing. Wow, you finally dropped the act, huh? Ophelia thought with a smirk. I guess you can''t keep it up any longer. Well, your turn''s over. Now it''s mine


    "Oh. Emily, what are you talking about? Birthday party? I''ve been at Rosewood Manor the whole time. I didn''t even know it was your birthday. Are you mad at me because I didn''t get you a gift!" Ophelia said with an innocent look.


    Emily''s expression darkened, and she thought, What is she ying at? Her hand clenched in her pocket as she retorted, "Stop pretending. Who else could it be but you?" Emily couldn''t figure out who else would go out of their way to make her life difficult.


    "I really don''t know what you''re talking about" Ophelia''s innocent look was made even more convincing with her naturally sweet face. Compared to her, Emily-despite all her years in the entertainment world-couldn''t evenpete when it came to ying innocent. Emily took a deep breath, thinking her phone''s recording app was still running. She had to get a confession out of Ophelia. If she could prove to Heather that Ophelia was behind what had happened at the birthday party. Heather would turn on Ophelia. She''d finally get her revenge by watching their family tear itself apart.


    With that thought, Emily softened her tone, trying to coax the truth out of Ophelia. "Elia, I know you hate me. You probably think I took your ce, but I never meant to. I know you''ve had a hard time before Mom and Dad found you, and I have even tried convincing them to treat you better.


    "But look, you''ve been out of touch for twenty years, and it can''t be made up for overnight. I''ve tried my best. We''re sisters, aren''t we? Why would you do that to me and embarrass me like that at my own birthday party?"


    "Sisters? Oh, please. Owen and Heather only have one daughter, right? Weren''t you the one who got mixed up and adopted by mistake! You don''t even know who your real parents are, and you''re calling us sisters?" Ophelia corrected her with a sneer.


    Emily''s hands tightened even more. She was a Hastings too, but as the illegitimate child, she was forced to live in the shadows. She could hardly ept that. However, she couldn''t blow the whole thing open-not without risking her position as the beloved Hastings''s heiress.


    "Elia. Emily put on a vulnerable look and stared at Ophelia.


    "Enough with the act. Save it for when you find your real parents, alright? Now, aren''t you here to return the gown? Let me see


    Ophelia impatiently cut her off.


    Emily''s initial embarrassment turned into nervousness. Her gaze darted away from Ophelia as she swallowed hard. She ced the shopping bag she''d been holding onto the counter, her mind racing. Suddenly, a clever idea popped into her head.

 Jilted Bride 23

    Well take it. Go ahead and check it," Emily sand while handing the gown to Ophelia. But just as Ophelia reached for it. Emily yanked it back With a loud rip, the paper bag tore. Emily quickly pulled the gown back and med, "How can you be so careless? Who''s going to take responsibility if it damaged?"


    She hurriedly exammed the gown, and a sh of satisfaction showed in her eyes as she spotted a loose thread at the slit. ''Oh my. It was perfectly fine before I brought it here. How did it get ruined from just a little tug Emily''s voice was syrupy, but her tone oozed with false


    concem.


    "Get your boss out. Maybe there''s a way to fix it, but don''t you dare pin this on me." Emily said in a harsh tone.


    "Hold on, you re saying I did this?" Ophelia asked.


    Emily poured as if she were deeply wronged. Elia do you have any idea how much this gown costs? It was in perfect condition when I brought it here. If you''re going to use me, at least don''t ruin such an expensive gown."


    Ophelia thought to herself. Heh what a neat little trick to flip the me."


    Not wanting to argue with Emily, she said. "Have you ever heard of security cameras


    The word "cameras" made Emily''s mind sh back to the footage from Evend Hotel Ophelia imed she knew nothing about what had happened at her birthday party, but every word seemed like a subtle jab at that humiliating night, and Emily couldn''t do a thing to fight back, which made her infuriating


    "Just get your boss out here to handle this." Emily snapped, thinking there was no point talking to Ophelia anymore.


    Ophelia calmly pressed the phone at the front desk and said. "Chloe, can youe down now


    It was almost closing, so Chloe came down from the studio with Wyatt in tow. The little boy looked around curiously, holding


    lollipop before quietly sitting on the sofa in the lounge.


    Ophelia gave Chloe a knowing nce, and Chloe immediately understood "Returning the gown, right?" she said to Emily. "Well. I can''t return it like this, can " Emily huffed. ying up her frustration and distress.


    If Chloe and Ophelia hadn''t already known what had happened, they might have actually believed Emily was the victim.


    Chloe took the gown and hung it up on the garment rack. After a brief check, she said, "Nice stitching on the lower slits, but the fringes are crooked and the silk thread runs off the seam line. Fullpensation for the damage. Ms. Hastings, this gown is priced at seven million dors. Will you be paying by transfer or credit card?"


    Without missing a beat. Chloe took out her phone and snapped several photos to document the damage.


    Emily waspletely stunned by the way things unfolded. She hadn''t expected them to be so direct, not even bothering to ask for her side of the story.


    Suppressing her growing unease, she tried to stay calm and exined. "It was your employee who damaged the gown while checking it. Are you really going to pin that on me?"Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    But Chloe wasn''t buying it, not even bothering to make the clerk apologize.


    "Ms. Hastings, if you don''t want to pay, you''ll have to receive thewyer''s letter. Chloe said in a neutral tone.


    Already feeling guilty, Emily realized her n to shift the me wasn''t working. But seven million dors? Where was she going toe up with that? Then, it hit her-she still had the recording on her phone. Suddenly, she felt like she had some leverage


    "I see now how your store makes money. You set these outrageous prices, im you only rent, not sell, and then your staff messes with the gowns to ckmail the customers, right?" Her usations grew wilder, but she was gaining confidence. "Im going to post this online and let the public judge for themselves"


    She waved her phone, and the recording was still on. She didn''t believe for a second they''d let her post it, and she was confident that they couldn''t withstand the pressure of online outrage


    With that, she turned to leave, taking only a small step each time, convinced someone would call her back to negotiate. But no


    one stopped her, even as she walked out the door..


    She thought. Fine, it''s the age of social media. Even if they refuse to negotiate, the onlinements will tear them apart. By the time theye begging for my forgiveness. La Reverie will be finished in this country.


    Back in the store. Chloe nced at Ophelia with concern, but Ophelia remained calm, as if everything was under control. Chloe started to wonder if her worry had been unnecessary, and she said, "Hey, Spencer, you''ve really grown up a lot,"


    Ophelia smiled as she looked at Chloe. She then pulled a set of keys from her bag and swayed it in front of Chloe. "I rented. you an apartment downtown, close to the hospital and the store. It''ll be easier for you to take care of Wyatt."


    Ophelia handed her the keys and added. Tve only covered the rent for six months. After that, you''re on your own."


    That was Ophelia who always had a way of making people ept her help without feeling burdened. Chloe hesitated at first but then took the keys without further doubt after hearing what Ophelia said. "Well... just deduct the six months'' rent from my sry," said Chloe. "No problem" Ophelia agreed, walked over to Wyatt, and yed with him for a while.


    Meanwhile, Emily sat in her car for a long time after leaving the store to contemte her next move. Finally, she decided to


    call Hannah


    "Hi. Hannah.." As soon as Emily said her name, she couldn''t hold back her tears. "Can you lend me some money?"


    Hannah had been stuck at home for over ten days,pletely out of touch with the world, so she had no idea what had happened at Emily''s birthday party. "What''s going on. Emily?" asked Hannah.


    Emily told her everything that had happened, and on the other end of the line, Hannah screamed with rage, "What? That''s outrageous! This is so unfair! Emily, you''re too kind. Why should you pay for something that wasn''t your fault? That bitch. definitely did it on purpose since you''re an easy target."


    "I recorded everything, but do you think that''ll help? Emily asked, her voice soft and vulnerable.


    "Send me the recording. Last time, that bitch posted my video online and made my family lose so much, and now, I''m going to give her a taste of her own medicine. I''ll make sure no one will hire her ever again." "Are you sure that''s a good idea?"


    "We''re just doing what''s right. La Reverie is making money using such dirty tactics. They shouldn''t be afraid of exposure if they''re innocent.


    After hanging up. Emily sent the edited recording to Hannah. She only kept the part of the conversation between her and Chloe, and even had her voice professionally altered to make it unrecognizable. Hannah texted back with an OK emoji, andter that night, the story started gaining traction online.


    The headline read: [La Reverie''s Money-Making Scam! Get Out of Heloria!]


    The entire thing was twisted from beginning to end, and with just a short, less-than-one-minute audio clip, the fabricated story spread like wildfire.


    The Inte was never short on mindless trolls, and with Hannah paying for fake ounts and boosting it to the trending list, the story quickly shot to the top of the charts.

 Jilted Bride 24

    Early the next morning. Chloe saw the trending topic online and called Ophelia, her voice


    sounding uneasy The reaction online is huge. Two brands we were supposed to coborate with just canceled. Should I put out a statement to exin the situation?"


    "No rush," Ophelia replied casually. "Someone''s giving us free publicity. Why not take advantage of it?From N?velDrama.Org.


    Chloe still wasn''t so easily convinced. With all the hate pouring in online, this didn''t feel like positive PR,


    After a leisurely breakfast, Ophelia heard amotioning from the backyard. She asked Lisa. "What''s going on outside


    Lisa nced out and replied with a smile, "Mr. Sinir is having a yground built for you."


    Ophelia was a bit surprised to hear that. She had been so busy at the studiotely that she hadn''t paid much attention to what was going on at home. But now, looking out the window, she saw arge crew working on the expansive grounds behind the house, constructing a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster. The carousel and giant swing were already finished.


    What''s the point of building me a yground she thought.


    Lisa seemed to read the confusion in her eyes, and she chuckled. "Is it good? Mr. Keh is treating you like a princess. Madam, don''t think I''m speaking out of turn, but I''ve never seen him treat anyone this well."


    Lisa took a deep sigh, and her expression turned somber. "Madam, you might never hear of this, but Mr. Keh has had a hard life. He was raised away from the family, and when he was ten, his mother left him. It was Mrs. Sinir''s friend who eventually took him abroad"


    Lisa shook her head and continued, "I remember it was a cold winter, Mr. Keh carne to beg his father to bury his mother, but Mr. Noel Sinir didn''t even look at him. Mr. Keh was humiliated by Mr. Patrick, who forced him to stay in the snow all night. In the end, Liam and I secretly helped bury Mrs. Sinir."


    As she spoke, Lisa''s eyes reddened. "Mr. Keh was curled up on the ground and kept thanking us. It was heartbreaking to see him suffering like that. People think he''s ruthless, but inside, he''s kinder and softer than anyone."


    Ophelia had heard these stories in herst life, but after seeing Keh''s brutality first-hand, she hadn''t believed a word of it. She thought it was all just an excuse to justify his actions.


    "You and Mr. Keh both had tough lives," Lisa continued with a sigh. "But at least now, you have each other. Maybe next year, you''ll have a baby, and your family will beplete."


    The first part of Lisa''s story had been quite moving, but the sudden shift toward having a baby threw Ophelia offpletely "A baby? He and I? No kidding!


    By the time Keh returned to Rosewood Manor that evening, Ophelia was curled up on the couch and scrolling through the endless stream of insults aimed at her online with aptop. She had to give Emily and Hannah credit-hiring so many bots and influencers had really ramped up the drama. The controversy wasn''t dying down anytime soon.


    there to


    Thankfully, she had picked a store in Denex, a mall known for its top-tier security. At least no one had shown up ther cause trouble.


    "Need some help?" Keh asked as he walked over, cing a beautifully crafted box of pastries on the coffee table.


    "You heard it Ophelia wasn''t the least bit surprised. She never nned to hide anything from him. She knew he had people keeping an eye on her all the time. It was thanks to Keh''s influence that she could move freely in and out of Evend. Hotel and effortlessly get her hands on the footage she needed.


    Sitting up straight, she crossed her legs on the couch and grabbed one of the delicate cakes. "Thanks, but I''ll handle my own revenge. You''ve already done enough for me." In herst life, Keh had avenged her, and this time, it was her own turn


    Keh''s long fingers gently stroked her hair in a soft and affectionate gesture. "So, what''s your n?"


    "When a cat catches a mouse, it doesn''t eat it right away. First, it ys with it until it''s dead," Ophelia said with a mischievous


    NING &


    Keh''s eyes were filled with undeniable affection as he watched her, pride written all over his face. He thought, That''s my gul. Her style is just like mine.


    He leaned closer and brushed the corner of her lips to wipe away the cream with his thumb. "Let me have a taste.


    "Hm?" Before she could react, his lips were already on hers, and he slowly savored the cream she hadn''t finished.


    Ever since Keh had the pleasure of her body, he found it impossible to stop indulging himself.


    The weekend passed with Ophelia mostly confined to bed, her body aching and her waistpletely numb. Even when it came time to eat, she had to drape herself over Keh and let him carry her downstairs.


    "Hey, you really don''t need to make a point ofing home just to spend the weekend with me, Ophelia said with a lifeless


    voice.


    "No way: What if you missed me?" Keh retorted with a smirk.


    Ophelia was left speechless by his shamelessness.


    Meanwhile, Emily spent the entire weekend on edge, anxiously waiting for awyer''s letter to arrive at her door, but none


    cime.


    When she went to the office on Monday, there was still no sign of any legal action. She thought with a sneer, Just as I expected. Weren''t they all high and mighty that day? This could''ve all been avoided, but sorry, it just serves them right."" Online, every trending topic about La Reverie was marked with either "Hot" or "New".


    "Ms. Hastings, your movie has been scheduled for release, just this month," her assistant Cathy said while handing her a stack of documents.


    Emily skummed through the list of films releasing around the same time and frowned slightly. "On a Snowy Day ising out the same day?"


    "Yes, but you don''t need to worry about that. No one''s interested in somest-century story. That washed-up actress has nothing on you. Besides, you''ve got Rex Reyes co-starring with you. With his massive fanbase and your incredible acting in the mix, you''re guaranteed to take the top spot at the box office. This year''s Golden Globe for Best Actress must be yours."


    There are so many veteran actresses with filmsing out this year. I wouldn''t dare dream of it," Emily said modestly, though inside, she was already thrilled.


    She thought. Of course it''s mine. Miles shelled out big money to get me this role. Dad was right. I need to earn back my reputation. Once I gain enough influence and connections in the industry. I''ll get more chances to get close to Keh.


    As soon as Cathy left, Emily received a phone call from Hannah. In a good mood, she picked up.


    Hannah''s anxious voice came from the other end. "Emily, what are we going to do? Bethany from Carnegie Group just came out publicly in support of La Reverie. Public opinion haspletely shifted, and our audio doesn''t hold up anymore."


    Emily''s smile immediately faded. She grabbed her mouse and hurriedly opened thetest posts. Bethany had posted a video, wearing a gown from La Reverie, and she formally cleared up the usations against the brand. La Reverie''s newly registered official ount had reposted the video along with a statement.


    If it had been anyone else, the exnation might have backfired, but Bethany was from the Carnegie family, one of Denex''s three elite families. Her support turned the tide almost instantly.


    There were many fence-sitters on the Inte, and countless influencers and media outlets rushed to share Bethany''s video with their own opinions and analyses. Without Ophelia spending a single cent, La Reverie got the best possible publicity,


    At La Reverie studio, Chloe was watching the situation unfold with amazement. "How did you pull that off?" she asked, curious.


    Someone like Bethany, with her high social standing, didn''t need anything from anyone. She was the hardest person to sway. Chloe couldn''t believe someone as shrewd as Bethany would take action without something in it for her.

 Jilted Bride 25

    Ophelia replied, "I just promised Bethany that anything she custom-orders from our store will be ready for pickup a month earlier than anyone else''s,"


    "And that was enough for her to agree?" Chloe still couldn''t believe it.


    Ophelia continued working while exining. "The Carnegie family were just nouveau riche before they became one of Denex''s elite three. They''ve got more money than they know what to do with, but what they crave is validation of their status


    "The Carnegie family has been involved in charity auctions and fundraisers for years, all in an attempt to elevate their status even higher. Every wealthy person enjoys wielding power, but even more so, they love having privileges others can''t touch. I offered Bethany that exclusivity-this privilege is hers alone."


    Chloe nodded, admiration and pride shining in her eyes as she looked at Ophelia. Yeah, that''s something to brag about for a lifetime, Chloe thought.


    "Oh, Chloe, I need your help with one more thing," Ophelia added.


    Over the next two days, several online ounts began digging into the origins of the initial posts and audio that had sparked the whole scandal. It didn''t take long for them to trace the posts back to Hannah''s secondary ount.


    Given the past incident with the Hall family, it was quickly confirmed that nnah had fabricated the rumors to divert public scrutiny away from the Hall family.


    z out of


    At first, Hannah brushed it off, thinking it was no big deal. But once the online bacsh and hate started spiraling control, she realized the situation was getting worse by the minute.


    In the early morning. Hannah sat at the table for her breakfast, too scared to even breathe freely. She quietly ate her food. asionally sneaking nces at George.


    Suddenly, the doorbell rang, and momentster, a servant entered the dining room with a delivery. "Sir, there''s a p


    package for


    you.


    It was unusual forpany documents to be sent directly to the house, so George wiped his mouth and tore open the envelope along the perforated edge, and a small recording device fell onto the table. His brows furrowed, but he continued pulling out the rest of the contents, revealing a letter-an official legal notice


    After skimming through the document, George''s expression darkened. He quickly checked thetest news on his phone and then mmed thewyer''s letter onto the table with a loud thud. Hannah, startled, nearly dropped her spoon.


    "Idiot! How did I end up with such a stupid daughter? Stop eating and look at me! George''s hand swiped across the table, sending bowls and utensils crashing to the floor.


    "Oh, my! What''s going on, honey?" Lydia was terrified, her face drained of color.


    "Let your baby girl exin to you, George snapped.


    Hannah was already trembling with fear, too scared to say a word. Lydia looked between George and Hannah and murmured. "Didn''t we settle everythingst time? Hannah knows her mistake...


    "Are you sure she knows? George pointed a shaking finger at Hannah, clearly enraged. I should''ve taken your phone away and you wouldn''t have had time to spread rumors"


    "Rumors What rumors?" Lydia asked, looking confused.


    "I didn''t spread any rumors Hannah protested, though her voicecked confidence. She couldn''t bring herself to look at George, so she hung ber head and nervously exined everything that had happened. George instantly caught the key detail-it involved the Hastings family agam. So this is an attack aimed at me he thought.


    He nced at the recording device on the table and regained someposure. He pressed y, and the conversation from that day started ying-Emily''s voice from the first part of the recording. George listened carefully, his frown deepening, and reyed the recording twice.


    Even Hannah began to piece things together, and she thought to herself, ''No way... Emily is the Hastings family''s adopted daughter? And Ophelia is their real daughter?''


    George recalled that day he went to confront the Hastings. He remembered how fiercely Heather protected Ophelia. Suddenly, it all made sense.


    George said, "Hannah, I know that you did this for your friend, but look, someone used you and turned you into a pawn. You''re going to issue a public statement immediately-exin everything and post the recording too. I''ll handle the rest. And once the school term starts, I''m sending you abroad. You won''t have to worry about any awkward encounters with Emily ever again." Hannah nodded, fury bubbling up inside her. She had been nothing but loyal to Emily, and yet she had been yed like aContent rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    fool.


    By that afternoon, Hannah had not only issued a public apology but alsoid out the entire sequence of events-starting from the gown Emily rented.


    Insiders began leaking what really went down at Emily''s birthday party. Suddenly, the Inte was buzzing with trending hashtags: "Fake Heiress Emily Exposed", "Two-Faced Emily", and "How To Stage Your Own Drama


    Mainstream media ran wild with stories about the Hastings family''s real and fake daughters, and Hastings Group faced a tidal wave of negative press. For a whole week, their stock prices took a nosedive. Even artists under Sungate Entertainment felt the bacsh, getting caught in the crossfire and facing public outrage.


    When the scandal broke, Emily felt her world shatter. Staring at the endless stream of online ridicule, her whole body trembled with rage. Her nails dug into her skin without her even realizing it, and her face was as pale as a ghost.


    She wanted to disappear, feeling like everyone around her was either mocking her or pitying her. Even the artists she used to look down on were now mming doors in her face.


    "Why? I''m Owen''s daughter, but why are people calling me a fake heiress? Why is fate so unfair? It''s all Ophelia''s fault. If it weren''t for her, none of this would be happening." Emily thought.


    "Ophelia!" Emily ground her teeth, and her eyes were filled with hatred and venom.


    Just then, amotion erupted outside her office. "Ma''am, you can''t go in there. This is the director''s office."


    The next second, the door suddenly flew open-


    Already in a foul mood, Emily was about tosh out when someone stormed in and grabbed her by the hair. She let out a loud scream in pain.


    "Emily, I thought we were friends. Is this how you treat me?" Hannah''s shout filled the office. She was tall and strong, and the force with which she yanked Emily''s hair made it clear how furious she was. Before Emily could react, Hannah had already pped her across the face multiple times. Everyone around them gasped-it was more intense than watching a wife catch her husband''s mistress.


    "Ah-Hannah, please, let me exin. I... I didn''t..." Emily cried and struggled.


    "You didn''t? Emily, stop pretending. I''m cursed to have ever been your friend. What a fool I''ve been, Hannah spat, her words sharp, her hand never stopping.


    Emily''s face was now covered in red marks, blood trickling from her lips. She didn''t even have the strength to fight back


    No one dared to step in, afraid of getting caught in the crossfire. At that moment, Emily truly understood what it meant to be abandoned by the world. The second she lost her title as Hastings''s heiress, everyone around her had turned against her.


    It wasn''t until the guards arrived that they managed to pull Hannah away. Emily sobbed, her face tear-streaked. Yet she still tried to maintain her image and told everyone she wouldn''t press charges and let Hannah go


    Meanwhile, Cathy received a letter addressed to Emily-awyer''s letter. She hesitated as she handed it over, afraid of being


    caught in the storm of Emily''s wrath. The letter detailed thepensation owed for the gown-seven million dors.

 Jilted Bride 26

    Chapter 26 79%


    Emily felt like she''d been hit over the head with a hammer. Her mind was buzzing, and in her fury, she shredded thatwyer''s letter into tiny pieces.


    Word of the incident-that Emily had been pped-soon reached Nathan. Nathan was the assistant director of talent at Sungate Entertainment, and he rushed back from the set as soon as he heard what had happened that afternoon.


    "Nathan, I''m fine, really," Emily said, though her cheeks were swollen, clearly showing she had been crying.


    "Who did this to you? Tell me, and I''ll make them pay." Nathan had never seen Emily like this and it broke his heart.


    Emily copsed into his arms with sobs and said, "Nathan, why... why am I not your real sister?"


    Nathan''s heart practically melted at that. ''How I wish you were my real sister. He cursed under his breath, ''Damn Ophelia! This must be another one of her shameless schemes to push Emily out and make the whole family ept her. Hmph, it''s never gonna happen!'' "Emily, you''re the only sister I''ve ever cared about, you know? Don''t listen to those idiots online," said Nathan with a reassuring tone.


    "I know, but Nathan, what about the gown? I know you didn''t mean to step on it at the party, but now, they want me to pay full price. What am I supposed to do?" Emily replied with her fake worries.


    Nathan had seen the news online and had the PR team deal with it early, but the whole thing had hit thepany''s stock prices hard. Many projects had been put on hold, and Owen and Harry were too busy picking up the pieces to help Emily out.


    "Just rx, I''ve got this," Nathan said with a smile.


    "But it''s seven million dors, Nathan...seven million. Where on earth are we going to get that kind of money? Maybe we should ask Elia to help us talk to her boss..."


    "Ask her? Emily, you don''t need to lower yourself like that. We don''t need her help. Besides, what can she do? She''s just an assistant-there''s no way she''s influencing any big decisions. Trust me, ourpany''s got the cash."


    Nathan''s words soothed Emily''s tense nerves. She knew thepany had a big budget set aside for a new film. She said those to Nathan purposely. Tearfully, she hugged him tighter and said, "Nathan, thank you. You''re always the one looking out for me." Nathan replied, "This is on me too. We''ll get through it together


    That night, Emily came home, her face still swollen. The moment she saw Heather, she threw herself into Heather''s arms. Heather could tell that her daughter had been through the wringer.


    Since the recordings leaked, Heather had wanted to tear that ungrateful brat apart. Everything had gone downhill since they brought Ophelia back into the family. It was one thing after another, and now she couldn''t even hold her head high among other wealthydies. She thought, ''Ophelia really is a jinx. Throwing her out all those years ago was the right move!


    The Hastings family was making headlines again, and the rumors were getting worse. Some people were even saying they nned to marry their real daughter to Keh, and George was the one spreading those rumors.


    Meanwhile, at La Reverie Studio, Ophelia leisurely munched on some dessert. She suddenly said, "Chloe, let''s wrap this up." She didn''t want her rtionship with Keh to blow up.


    "Okay," Chloe replied, her fingers flying across the keys of her high-endptop. With one final tap of the enter key, the


    III


    Everyone around them gasped-it was more intense than watching a wife catch her husband''s mistress.


    "Ah-Hannah, please, let me exin. I... I didn''t..." Emily cried and struggled.


    "You didn''t? Emily, stop pretending. I''m cursed to have ever been your friend. What a fool I''ve been," Hannah spat, her words sharp, her hand never stopping.


    Emily''s face was now covered in red marks, blood trickling from her lips. She didn''t even have the strength to fight back.


    No one dared to step in, afraid of getting caught in the crossfire. At that moment, Emily truly understood what it meant to be abandoned by the world. The second she lost her title as Hastings''s heiress, everyone around her had turned against her. It wasn''t until the guards arrived that they managed to pull Hannah away. Emily sobbed, her face tear-streaked. Yet she still tried to maintain her image and told everyone she wouldn''t press charges and let Hannah go.


    Meanwhile, Cathy received a letter addressed to Emily-awyer''s letter. She hesitated as she handed it over, afraid of being caught in the storm of Emily''s wrath. The letter detailed thepensation owed for the gown-seven million dors.


    0


    Emily felt like she''d been hit over the head with a hammer. Her mind was buzzing, and in her fury, she shredded thatwyer''s letter into tiny pieces.


    Word of the incident-that Emily had been pped-soon reached Nathan. Nathan was the assistant director of talent at Sungate Entertainment, and he rushed back from the set as soon as he heard what had happened that afternoon.


    "Nathan, I''m fine, really," Emily said, though her cheeks were swollen, clearly showing she had been crying.


    "Who did this to you? Tell me, and I''ll make them pay." Nathan had never seen Emily like this and it broke his heart.


    Emily copsed into his arms with sobs and said, "Nathan, why.. why am I not your real sister?"


    Nathan''s heart practically melted at that. ''How I wish you were my real sister. He cursed under his breath, ''Damn Ophelia! This must be another one of her shameless schemes to push Emily out and make the whole family ept her. Hmph, it''s never gonna happen. "Emily, you''re the only sister I''ve ever cared about, you know? Don''t listen to those idiots online," said Nathan with a reassuring tone.


    "I know, but Nathan, what about the gown? I know you didn''t mean to step on it at the party, but now, they want me to pay full price. What am I supposed to do?" Emily replied with her fake worries.


    Nathan had seen the news online and had the PR team deal with it early, but the whole thing had hit thepany''s stock prices hard. Many projects had been put on hold, and Owen and Harry were too busy picking up the pieces to help Emily


    out.


    "Just rx, I''ve got this," Nathan said with a smile.


    "But it''s seven million dors, Nathan...seven million. Where on earth are we going to get that kind of money? Maybe we should ask Elia to help us talk to her boss..."


    "Ask her? Emily, you don''t need to lower yourself like that. We don''t need her help. Besides, what can she do? She''s just an assistant-there''s no way she''s influencing any big decisions. Trust me, ourpany''s got the cash."


    Nathan''s words soothed Emily''s tense nerves. She knew thepany had a big budget set aside for a new film. She said those to Nathan purposely. Tearfully, she hugged him tighter and said, "Nathan, thank you. You''re always the one looking out for me." Nathan replied, "This is on me too. We''ll get through it together


    That night, Emily came home, her face still swollen. The moment she saw Heather, she threw herself into Heather''s arms. Heather could tell that her daughter had been through the wringer.


    Since the recordings leaked, Heather had wanted to tear that ungrateful brat apart. Everything had gone downhill since they brought Ophelia back into the family. It was one thing after another, and now she couldn''t even hold her head high among other wealthydies. She thought, ''Ophelia really is a jinx. Throwing her out all those years ago was the right move!


    The Hastings family was making headlines again, and the rumors were getting worse. Some people were even saying they nned to marry their real daughter to Keh, and George was the one spreading those rumors.


    *****


    Meanwhile, at La Reverie Studio, Ophelia leisurely munched on some dessert. She suddenly said, "Chloe, let''s wrap this up." She didn''t want her rtionship with Keh to blow up.


    "Okay," Chloe replied, her fingers flying across the keys of her high-endptop. With one final tap of the enter key, the


    13:55 Sun, Nov 10 BW.


    Inte was scrubbed clean of any mention of the Hastings having their daughter marry Keh.


    Ophelia was always impressed by Chloe''s hacking skills-she could sneak into any system without leaving a trace. Too bad Ophelia herself was terrible at it. Chloe had tried teaching her a few times, but she just couldn''t get the hang of it.


    M


    "Chloe, aren''t you curious why I''m doing all this? Why I''m going after the Hastings family like this?" asked Ophelia.


    "You used to be way too soft, and now, you''re just right," Chloe said with a smirk. She didn''t need to know the details. As long as Ophelia needed something done, she''d do it without question "But what I am curious about," Chloe added, "is how you got them to fall into your ns, step by step."


    Ophelia rested her chin on her hand, her gaze fixed on the chessboard in front of her. "Look, it''s just like ying chess. As long as you predict their moves, all you have to do is follow the ybook."


    The key was knowing exactly what each of them cared about. George was paranoid and selfish, while Hannah was reckless but loyal. Ophelia had learned this in herst life-Hannah had stuck her neck out for Emily countless times. It was better to have her wise up now before she ruined her future.


    As the sky darkened outside, Ophelia nced over at Chloe and suggested, "You should take Wyatt home. I''ll leave soon."


    "Alright. You..." Chloe hesitated, about to remind her to stay safe, but figured her worrying was pointless "Just get home early."


    "Sure." Ophelia nodded vigorously. As she thought about the weekend was around the corner, her waist tensed up already. She howled inwardly, ''Keh, how did I not realize in myst life that you were so driven by lust?''


    Ophelia tidied up the chessboard, making sure the studio was spotless before locking up. By the time she left, it was already past 11 p.m.


    Denex''s nightlife was in full swing, and the streets were buzzing with energy. As she reached the corner, the mouthwatering smell of French fries hit her, instantly triggering her cravings.


    Back when she lived in the slums, food was just about survival. But ever since she''d gotten a taste for the finer things, she found herself giving in to indulgence more often.


    As she crossed the street and headed toward the food stand, she suddenly switched directions, ducking into a deserted alley. Barely half a minuteter, a gray van pulled up at the entrance to the alley. Five guys-different sizes, but all equally rough-looking-got out. "Where''d she go?" one of the men asked.


    "I swear I saw her walk in here," another man answered.


    The alley was dimly lit, the kind of ce nobody in their right mind would walk through thiste.


    "Are you looking for me?" Ophelia''s voice drifted from the shadows at the far end of the alley.


    The men moved a few steps closer and shone their phone lights around. ''Yep, there she is, just like the girl in the photo,'' they thought, thrilled that they had found their target.


    The guy in a ck shirt with gold trim, clearly the leader, smirked. "So, you''re Ophelia? Gotta admit that you''re pretty easy on the eyes."


    He swaggered toward Ophelia, his attitude cocky. "Someone paid us to teach you a lesson. But I don''t think I can be too hard on such a hot chick. How a


    55 Sun,


    Emily felt like she''d been hit over the head with a hammer. Her mind was buzzing, and in her fury, she shredded thatwyer''s letter into tiny pieces.


    Word of the incident-that Emily had been pped-soon reached Nathan. Nathan was the assistant director of talent at Sungate Entertainment, and he rushed back from the set as soon as he heard what had happened that afternoon.


    "Nathan, I''m fine, really," Emily said, though her cheeks were swollen, clearly showing she had been crying.


    "Who did this to you? Tell me, and I''ll make them pay." Nathan had never seen Emily like this and it broke his heart.


    Emily copsed into his arms with sobs and said, "Nathan, why.. why am I not your real sister?"


    Nathan''s heart practically melted at that. ''How I wish you were my real sister. He cursed under his breath, ''Damn Ophelia! This must be another one of her shameless schemes to push Emily out and make the whole family ept her. Hmph, it''s never gonna happen. "Emily, you''re the only sister I''ve ever cared about, you know? Don''t listen to those idiots online," said Nathan with a reassuring tone.


    "I know, but Nathan, what about the gown? I know you didn''t mean to step on it at the party, but now, they want me to pay full price. What am I supposed to do?" Emily replied with her fake worries.


    Nathan had seen the news online and had the PR team deal with it early, but the whole thing had hit thepany''s stock prices hard. Many projects had been put on hold, and Owen and Harry were too busy picking up the pieces to help Emily


    out.


    "Just rx, I''ve got this," Nathan said with a smile.


    "But it''s seven million dors, Nathan...seven million. Where on earth are we going to get that kind of money? Maybe we should ask Elia to help us talk to her boss..."


    "Ask her? Emily, you don''t need to lower yourself like that. We don''t need her help. Besides, what can she do? She''s just an assistant-there''s no way she''s influencing any big decisions. Trust me, ourpany''s got the cash."


    Nathan''s words soothed Emily''s tense nerves. She knew thepany had a big budget set aside for a new film. She said those to Nathan purposely. Tearfully, she hugged him tighter and said, "Nathan, thank you. You''re always the one looking out for me." Nathan replied, "This is on me too. We''ll get through it together


    That night, Emily came home, her face still swollen. The moment she saw Heather, she threw herself into Heather''s arms. Heather could tell that her daughter had been through the wringer.


    Since the recordings leaked, Heather had wanted to tear that ungrateful brat apart. Everything had gone downhill since they brought Ophelia back into the family. It was one thing after another, and now she couldn''t even hold her head high among other wealthydies. She thought, ''Ophelia really is a jinx. Throwing her out all those years ago was the right move!


    The Hastings family was making headlines again, and the rumors were getting worse. Some people were even saying they nned to marry their real daughter to Keh, and George was the one spreading those rumors.


    *****


    Meanwhile, at La Reverie Studio, Ophelia leisurely munched on some dessert. She suddenly said, "Chloe, let''s wrap this up." She didn''t want her rtionship with Keh to blow up.


    "Okay," Chloe replied, her fingers flying across the keys of her high-endptop. With one final tap of the enter key, the


    13:55 Sun, Nov 10 BW.


    Inte was scrubbed clean of any mention of the Hastings having their daughter marry Keh.


    Ophelia was always impressed by Chloe''s hacking skills-she could sneak into any system without leaving a trace. Too bad Ophelia herself was terrible at it. Chloe had tried teaching her a few times, but she just couldn''t get the hang of it.


    M


    "Chloe, aren''t you curious why I''m doing all this? Why I''m going after the Hastings family like this?" asked Ophelia.


    "You used to be way too soft, and now, you''re just right," Chloe said with a smirk. She didn''t need to know the details. As long as Ophelia needed something done, she''d do it without question "But what I am curious about," Chloe added, "is how you got them to fall into your ns, step by step." Ophelia rested her chin on her hand, her gaze fixed on the chessboard in front of her. "Look, it''s just like ying chess. As long as you predict their moves, all you have to do is follow the ybook."


    The key was knowing exactly what each of them cared about. George was paranoid and selfish, while Hannah was reckless but loyal. Ophelia had learned this in herst life-Hannah had stuck her neck out for Emily countless times. It was better to have her wise up now before she ruined her future.


    As the sky darkened outside, Ophelia nced over at Chloe and suggested, "You should take Wyatt home. I''ll leave soon."


    "Alright. You..." Chloe hesitated, about to remind her to stay safe, but figured her worrying was pointless "Just get home early."


    "Sure." Ophelia nodded vigorously. As she thought about the weekend was around the corner, her waist tensed up already. She howled inwardly, ''Keh, how did I not realize in myst life that you were so driven by lust?''


    Ophelia tidied up the chessboard, making sure the studio was spotless before locking up. By the time she left, it was already past 11 p.m.


    Denex''s nightlife was in full swing, and the streets were buzzing with energy. As she reached the corner, the mouthwatering smell of French fries hit her, instantly triggering her cravings.


    Back when she lived in the slums, food was just about survival. But ever since she''d gotten a taste for the finer things, she found herself giving in to indulgence more often.


    As she crossed the street and headed toward the food stand, she suddenly switched directions, ducking into a deserted alley. Barely half a minuteter, a gray van pulled up at the entrance to the alley. Five guys-different sizes, but all equally rough-looking-got out. "Where''d she go?" one of the men asked.


    "I swear I saw her walk in here," another man answered.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The alley was dimly lit, the kind of ce nobody in their right mind would walk through thiste.


    "Are you looking for me?" Ophelia''s voice drifted from the shadows at the far end of the alley.


    The men moved a few steps closer and shone their phone lights around. ''Yep, there she is, just like the girl in the photo,'' they thought, thrilled that they had found their target.


    The guy in a ck shirt with gold trim, clearly the leader, smirked. "So, you''re Ophelia? Gotta admit that you''re pretty easy on the eyes."


    He swaggered toward Ophelia, his attitude cocky. "Someone paid us to teach you a lesson. But I don''t think I can be too hard on such a hot chick. How about you p yourself and let us filmit? If you y nice, we''ll make this quick."


    Qh?" Ophelia nced over the group and asked, "And then what"


    "You better be wise and do what I said. Look, we''re just a bunch of big, clumsy guys. Would be a shame if we messed pretty face of yours," he said, his beady eyes scanning her up and down, his chubby fingers clenching and unclenching like


    up


    that


    13:55 Sun, Nov 10 BOU.


    he was trying to hold back.


    Eyeing the beautiful woman, the leader thought, "Too bad the client made it clear we can''t do anything more to her.


    "Don''t you guys ever bother to find out who you''re dealing with before you take a job? Aren''t you worried you might not make it out of here?" Ophelia then said, her tone arrogant.


    Her words made the guys burst outughing like she''d just told the funniest joke ever.


    "Little chick, what makes you say that to us? You''re really full of yourself," one of those guys said with loudughter.


    "Enough, Boss, no need to waste time with her. Let''s get this over with," another man said.


    Two of them moved forward, confident they could easily handle the woman. Their leader, leaning against the van, lit a cigarette, and one of the guys already had a camera rolling. "Sorry, sweetheart," the guy said while approaching Ophelia.


    bout you p yourself and let us filmit? If you y nice, we''ll make this quick."

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    Chapter


    27


    The two beefy guys stepped forward, each one aiming to grab one of Ophelia''s arms and force her to her knees. Just as one of them reached out, his wrist was suddenly seized in a grip. His body lurched forward uncontrobly. Before he could steady himself, a hard kick mmed into his chest and sent him flying.


    The other guy stood there, arm still outstretched, watching the whole scene unfold in front of him. By the time it clicked that Ophelia wasing for him next, it was toote. His arm bent at a freakish angle.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The sickening sound of bone snapping echoed through the alley, followed by his agonized scream, which sliced through the quiet night.


    The cameraman saw it all through the lens, and panic surged through him. He stumbled backward, choking on his words. "B-boss..."


    Before he could finish, the camera was kicked right out of his hands, smashed into the wall, and shattered into pieces. He felt a sharp pain in his chest, and then his body mmed into the side of the van, hard enough that he thought his ribs might crack. The leader, lounging with his cigarette, snapped to attention. For a moment, he stood frozen, the cigarette burning down to his fingers. It wasn''t until it scorched his skin that he flinched and dropped it. His gaze darted between his fallen men and Ophelia, and he looked at her with pure fear. "W-who the hell are you?" asked the leader.


    Ophelia stepped out of the shadows, blinked her wide, innocent eyes, and replied, "The one you were looking for. Her voice was soft and sweet, but it sent shivers down the man''s spine.


    Thest guy standing, a huge, slow-witted brute, started backing away while stuttering, "B-boss, m-maybe... you should deal with her..." "Deal my ass! RUN!" said the leader.


    Right then, the alley lit up like it were broad daylight. Five SUVS pulled up, with headlights blinding, and boxed them in from all sides.


    ck-suited bodyguards, clearly well-trained, poured out of the vehicles and formed a tight circle around the group. Each one had a gun holstered at their waist. In Heloria, guns were legal, but not everyone could afford them.


    The sight of the armed guards sent the mob into a full-blown panic. The leader was the first to fold. He immediately threw his hands up


    and dropped to a crouch beside the van, with his hands over his head in surrender.


    The other four guys, groaning from their injuries, quickly followed their boss''s lead, raising their hands and crouching down. ''What the hell is this? We never signed up for this kind of mess,'' theyined in their minds. Ophelia scratched behind her ear, a little surprised herself. She hadn''t expected things to escte this much. Who would have thought that so many people had been protecting her all this time?


    "Madam, are you alright?" The young man leading the guards, with a strong, rugged face, asked respectfully. Judging by the scene, not only was she fine, but the other side had definitely taken the brunt of the damage. "I''m fine," Ophelia replied casually.


    Just then, their leader''s phone rang. Ophelia strolled over and extended her delicate hand with her palm up. The man froze for a second and stared at that small hand, wondering how the hell it had just wrecked his crew like that. Phone," Ophelia said..


    The man immediately snapped out of it, nodding and bowing as he fumbled for the phone from the van and handed it over with both hands.


    13:55 Sun, Nov 10 BOU.


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    Ophelia answered the call, and a familiar voice came through. "What''s taking so long? It''s just one woman. How hard can it


    be?"


    "Nathan, you really thought sending a bunch of kids would teach me a lesson?" Ophelia''s voice dripped with sarcasm. On the other end, Nathan almost dropped the phone when he heard Ophelia''s voice.


    "Cat got your tongue, my dear brother?" Ophelia''s tone was sharp, and the word "brother" wasced with mockery. In herst life, Nathan had done this plenty of times, all to defend Emily. Ophelia had endured this kind of humiliation more times than she could count. She always swallowed her pride, hoping Nathan would stop. But the more she tolerated, the worse it got.


    The line suddenly went dead. Ophelia nced at the phone and then tossed it back into the van. She looked at the group of men still crouched on the ground, and a new idea struck her.


    Ophelia said, "Whatever they''re paying you, I''ll double it. I want the same kind of video he asked you to film. If you pull it off, I''ll let you go. If not..."


    "We can, definitely can," those guys replied in unison before Ophelia finished her words.


    ''Like we have a choice. These bodyguards and this woman are clearly not to be messed with. If we say no, we''ll be buried in the flowerbeds by morning,'' they thought.


    Ophelia climbed into one of the cars with a bodyguard, and the convoy set off toward Rosewood Manor. As the French fry stand grew smaller in the distance, she made a vow to herself that she would definitely get those fries tomorrow


    The next day was the weekend and normally Ophelia would spend her time at home, but staying there too long would make her waist ache. So, early in the morning, she headed to the studio instead.


    The store was on the first floor, with the studio upstairs. Chloe usually handled everything, but today, she had to take Wyatt to the hospital for a check-up.


    Since the free promotion, La Reverie had be the new status symbol for high society. It became a big deal to get a custom-made gown from La Reverie, even if it was rented for a party or celebration.


    To meet the growing demand, they hired more staff and assistants, but even with the extra hands, the store was swamped on weekends. Thus, Ophelia went downstairs to help out.


    Meanwhile, on the top floor of Paralet Shopping Center, three wealthydies were lying on spa beds with face masks on in a beauty salon.


    "Helena, I heard you got a custom gown from Fashion Ladiesst week. How much did it set you back?" asked Sarah, the eldest daughter-inw of the Brooks family.


    "Eh, just seventy thousand dors," Helena said, her voice dripping with pride.


    "I hear that La Reverie is downstairs in this mall. Why don''t we check it outter?" suggested Sarah. She nced at the woman lying furthest inside, as if something just crossed her mind, and said, "By the way, Heather, your daughter rented a gown from there recently, right?" "Uh..." Heather mumbled, clearly ufortable. Ever since that whole mess with their two daughters hit the Inte, she hadn''t been out shopping with these women in a while. She never thought even at a beauty appointment, they''d bring it up. She believed Emily was too honest. If only she had spoken up sooner, none of that drama would''ve happened.


    And how much did you end up paying after the gown got damaged?" Sarah asked, feigning curiosity.


    "Oh, not much, just seven million dors," Heather replied in a nonchnt tone.


    79%1


    Helena, who had just been bragging about her $70,000 gown, was clearly annoyed. ''What a show-off, she scoffed in her mind.


    Sarah said in surprise, "Oh my, seven million, huh? And you call it not much? Heather, you''re so generous. You treat your adopted daughter that well; I can''t imagine how spoiled your real daughter must be."


    Heather forced a smile, and replied in an awkward tone, "They''re my daughters, after all."


    After their spa treatments, the three women headed downstairs and arrived at the entrance to La Reverie.


    "Doesn''t look decent at all," Helena remarked with a hint of bitterness.


    "Oh,e on, we''re here. Let''s at least take a look," Sarah suggested.


    They stepped inside, and as they examined the gowns on disy, it became clear that these weren''t their typical gowns. The embroidery was exquisite, the stitching was wless, and even the design seemed to elevate the gowns above anything else they''d seen.


    Helena, always thinking of herself as above it all, crossed her arms and nced around the store with little interest. She couldn''t understand why anyone would be foolish enough to spend so much on custom gowns. But then, something caught her eye. She squinted, focusing on someone in the distance.

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    COMMENT


    13:56 Sun, Nov 10 BW.


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    "Hey, Heather, doesn''t that girl over there look familiar? Is that your daughter?" Helena asked as she stared at Ophelia. She had seen Ophelia at their family reunion, and her striking looks left an impression.


    Covering her mouth, Helena let out a light chuckle. She had always wondered why the Hastings family would suddenly adopt a daughter. It turned out that they''d taken in their own biological daughter. This was the first time she''d seen a family treat their real daughter like an adopted one.


    "Oh, it really is," Sarah said in surprise and exchanged a knowing look with Helena.


    Heather had just been bragging about how much she doted on her biological daughter, and now, here her daughter was working in a store. That was too awkward. Heather''s face immediately turned gloomy.


    Ophelia, however, didn''t notice them. She was busy helping an elderlydy try on a gown. Every time Ophelia served someone older, especially one with an elegant demeanor, it reminded her of her grandmother, and she always took extra care of them. She was focused on fastening the buttons when suddenly, a hand mped down hard on her wrist.


    "Elia, what are you doing here?" Heather asked as she tightened her grip, and there was no warmth in her voice-only usation. It felt like she was trying to crush Ophelia''s bones. "You''re trying to embarrass me, aren''t you?" Heather hissed under her breath, her eyes shing with resentment.


    Ophelia nced at the two wealthydies nearby, who were clearly watching with interest. It didn''t take a genius to figure out what was going on. Shaking off Heather''s grip, Ophelia rubbed her sore wrist, her expression growing colder and more distant by the second. "Heather, did you forget something again?"


    "You''re still mad at me, aren''t you?" Heather''s eyes shot Ophelia a warning, silently pleading with her not to say anything embarrassing. "Elia, I know you''re upset with me..."


    "Give me a break, please. If you want to keep up the act, go home and perform for your real daughter. I''m busy now," Ophelia said in a cold tone.


    Catching the tension, Sarah teased, "Heather, your daughter doesn''t seem all that close to you,


    huh?"


    Helenaughed behind her hand and echoed, "Can''t say I''m surprised. Who makes their real daughter work here? I guess blood ties don''t run as deep as the bond you form when you raise someone from birth."


    "That''s so true. Anyway, since this is your family business, we''ll just leave the time to you," Sarah said, her voice dripping with false sympathy. With that, the two women walked off, leaving Heather standing there, seething in silence.


    Heather could feel the judgmental stares from Helena and Sarah burning into her. It was like a fire were trapped in her chest, unable to escape. The scene of Emily crying and threatening to run away, saying she didn''t want to be a burden to the Hastings family emerged in Heather''s mind. And here Ophelia was, embarrassing her again and again.


    The moment Helena and Sarah were out of sight, Heather couldn''t hold back anymore. She raised her hand, aiming to p Ophelia across the face. But Ophelia was quicker. She caught Heather''s hand without hesitation and couldn''t help but want to crush the bones of Heather.


    Heather winced in pain and protested, "How dare you raise your hand against me? Ophelia, I''m your mother. Is this what you want? To humiliate me in front of everyone? If you were half as well-behaved as Emily, I wouldn''t even consider marrying you off to that guy." Ophelia used to feel pity for Heather, but now, she thought Heather deserved everything that wasing to her. Raising another woman''s child while neglecting her own-she wondered how Heather would feel when she finally learned the truth. Ophelia let out a coldugh and released Heather''s hand abruptly, causing her to stumble backward.


    "Quit this job right now," Heather ordered, her voice shaking with anger. Paralet Shopping Center was Denex''srgestText ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    13:56 Sun, Chapter 28


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    mall, with so many peopleing every day. Heather couldn''t stand the humiliation that anyone saw the Hastings family''s real daughter working in a store as a saleswoman.


    "Let me say it again, I have cut ties with the Hastings family. Get it through your head and stop interfering in my life," Ophelia said in a firm tone.


    "Your life? Without me, you wouldn''t even have a life. Everyone knows you''re the Hastings family''s real daughter now, and by working here, you''re deliberately disgracing us. I''m ordering you to quit this job." Heather growled while ring at Ophelia. Ophelia''s lips curled into a chilling smile. The sheer audacity of this family made her sick. She stared back into Heather''s eyes and retorted, "You gave me life but didn''t raise me. You owe me nothing but guilt. Maybe I should investigate whether I was really switched after birth, or if you abandoned me on purpose."


    With that, Ophelia turned and walked upstairs without a second nce. She didn''t notice how, after herst words, Heather''s face went from flushed with anger to ghostly pale.


    Back then, after Ophelia was born, she wasn''t even a month old when Owen''s mother passed away. A fortune teller had imed Ophelia was cursed, destined to bring misfortune to her family-first her rtives, and then her parents. After her mother-inw''s sudden death, Heather had panicked and sent Ophelia to the orphanage, terrified she''d be the next victim. When sheter heard Ophelia had been adopted by a decent family, she finally breathed a sigh of relief. Owen didn''t want Heather to be sad and adopted Emily to ease her pain. All these years of treating Emily well was Heather''s way of making up for the past.


    But deep down, Heather knew she wasn''t wrong back then. She gave birth to Ophelia, so Ophelia owed her. With that thought, any lingering guilt vanished from Heather''s heart. She believed it was Ophelia''s own fault for being such a disappointment.


    *****


    Meanwhile, Ophelia locked herself in her studio, drawing and ripping up sketches one after another, unable to focus. Her phone lit up with calls and notifications, but she ignored them all. She asked in her mind, ''Why? Why do I have to share the same dirty blood as those people?''


    Suddenly, her pencil broke, and with it, her patience. She leaned back in her white leather chair and rubbed her temples, trying to clear her mind.


    Downstairs, a sleek ck SUV pulled up in front of the shop. A tall figure stepped out, his polished shoes reflecting the light with every step. Even before he entered the store, the passersby couldn''t help but stare at him. Despite the ck baseball cap and face mask hiding his features, his aristocratic vibe was impossible to ignore.


    As soon as he walked in, the shop assistants abandoned their idle chat about dinner and scrambled to greet him. "Hello, sir, how can I help you?"


    But Keh didn''t nce at any of them. His eyes immediatelynded on the staircase, and without a word, he walked upstairs.


    "Sorry, sir, it is a private work area. You can''t just-" one of the clerks said.


    Keh instantly shot her an icy look, and the clerk swallowed her words and froze in ce.


    In the design room, Ophelia was still lounging in her chair, her eyes closed while spinning her chair idly. "Well, well, pretending to workte just to avoid spending time with me, huh?" Keh''s deep voice sounded. Ophelia''s eyes flew open, and she saw him standing right in front of her-dressed in ck from head to toe. "Why are you here? Qops... I-I totally forgot it''s the weekend." Her attempt at acting surprised was embarrassingly


    13:56 Sun, Nov 10 BOU.


    transparent. When her eyes met his intense gaze above the mask, her confidence faltered.


    79%


    "My waist hurts," she mumbled, her voice barely louder than a whisper. After speaking, a flush crept up her cheeks. ''Surely, he understands what I mean, right?'' she thought. Keh walked over, scooped her up from her chair without a word, and sat down with her on hisp.


    "Hey, we''re at my office," she whispered, her face growing even hotter.

 Jilted Bride 29

    Chapter


    29


    "So what?" Keh''s tone was cocky, that crease above his eyes giving him an almost devilish charm. At the same time, his hand settled on her waist.


    "No, Keh..." Ophelia started to protest.


    "Is this how you think of me? Hm?" He asked in a teasing tone. As he spoke, Ophelia felt the warmth of his hand massaging her waist, and she breathed a sigh of relief, her tense waist slowly rxing. "Here?" he asked.


    She replied, "A little more to the right."


    ''She really takes me as her massager, huh?'' Keh thought.


    Ophelia didn''t have any idea of refusing his massage. Her back really did hurt, after all, His touch was gentle, the heat from his palm soothing as it worked into her muscles.


    Shepletely rxed when she heard hurried footsteps on the staircase, followed by the hushed whispers of a few girls outside the office door. Who could me them for being curious? Keh''s whole vibe,bined with that mysterious outfit, made him impossible to ignore.


    Thinking if they went home, he wouldn''t let her off easily, Ophelia grabbed his hand and suggested, "How about we... you know... go on a date instead?"


    Keh narrowed his eyes and echoed, "Date?"


    "Yup, like couples on TV-holding hands, walking down the street, and something like that."


    "Your waist''s not hurting now?" he asked, raising a brow.


    "I think with about a week of rest, I''ll be fine," Ophelia said seriously, though the yful glint in her eyes betrayed her.


    Keh usually hated being manipted or lied to, but with her, he couldn''t even muster an ounce of anger. It was frustrating and endearing at the same time. Staring into her wide, innocent eyes, Keh let out a sigh and closed his eyes briefly. "Fine." Ophelia was just about to slide off hisp when he suddenly pinned her against the desk. Before she could react, Keh removed his mask and pressed his lips against hers, capturing her in a soft but firm kiss.


    "Right at that moment, the frosted ss door to the office swung open.


    Ophelia quickly pushed Keh away, her face instantly turning a deep shade of red."


    Chloe, standing there awkwardly, immediately looked away while covering Wyatt''s eyes for good measure. She hadn''t expected anyone to be in the studio on a weekend; normally, Ophelia stayed home on her days off. Perched on Chloe''s shoulder, Wyatt tried to push her hand away and peeked at Ophelia and Keh. "Elia, why''s your face so red? Are sick?"


    you


    "Nope... I''m not sick," Ophelia stammered. She bitterly cursed inwardly,


    ''Keh''s the one who''s sick."


    Ophelia wanted to disappear into the floor as she looked at Chloe, her expression a mix of shyness and panic she''d never shown before. She stammered to introduce, "This... This is my boyfriend, Keh." 1/3


    13:56 Sun, Nov 10 B 2.


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    Keh, who had already put his mask back on and wasposed, clearly wasn''t too pleased with the word "boyfriend". Still, seeing Ophelia''s embarrassed face, he chose not to say anything.


    Chloe shed a knowing smile and said, "Ah, that exins it." No wonder Ophelia had seemed differenttely. "d to see you," Chloe added.


    Keh paid no attention to their conversation. He simply took Ophelia''s hand and started heading downstairs. Ophelia waved awkwardly at Wyatt, only for Keh to firmly turn her head back toward him. He stopped walking, and naturally, she did too. A shadow fell over her, and a secondter, his deep voice brushed against her ear. "Elia, why''s your face so red?"


    Ophelia''s whole body flushed, the heat creeping up from her ears. Every time Keh used that low, seductive voice after things, it left her feeling weak. But this time, they hadn''t done anything, and he still teased her like this. Ophelia couldn''t help cursing him under her breath.


    She took a deep breath and nced at his slightly open cor. Suddenly, she stood on her tiptoes and bit his corbone, catching himpletely off guard. She then immediately ran off


    Keh licked his lips, a grin ying on his face as his heart skipped a beat. ''She wants to get even, huh? Nice try, he wondered with a smile.


    Downstairs, a few of the shop assistants peeked out. Seeing the two of theme down, they quickly straightened up. Some looked disappointed, some impressed, and others curious. Ophelia gave them a small nod, trying her best to appearposed, though she couldn''t quite hide the mix of shyness and embarrassment.


    To Keh, though, she looked absolutely adorable. His eyes never left her-not even


    for a second.


    *****


    They wandered through the mall. Ophelia, who had never really experienced the typical dating rituals in either of her lives wasn''t quite sure what to do next. She''d never been on a date before, but she had seen others do it. There were a few couples ahead of them, all heading toward the theater. So she suggested, "How about we watch a movie?"From N?velDrama.Org.


    "Good idea," Keh replied, still holding her hand like any regr couple out for a stroll. But the way he stood there, it was impossible not to notice him-he practically radiated a maic presence.


    Ophelia could hear some couples bickering nearby, all because those girls had nced at Keh a little too long. She couldn''t help but sigh inwardly-he really was trouble in a handsome package.


    The theater was packed, as expected for a weekend. Keh nced around and spotted a seat. He said, "Wait for me over there. I''ll go get the tickets."


    "I''lle with you." Ophelia offered.


    "No need." Keh waved her off. He''d noticed most of the guys were the ones queuing up for tickets, while the girls waited. Ophelia''s eyes followed his retreating figure. Even though Keh was dressed casually, he still stood out in the crowd.


    "Look, is he some kind of celebrity? Just his back is so handsome The group of three girls at the next table was whispering excitedly, even snapping a picture of his back with their phones.


    "Why don''t we hit on him and ask for his number?" one of the girls suggested.


    "Forget it. He''s obviously here with his girlfriend. No guy like that woulde to a movie alone," another girl replied.


    Sure enough, a few momentster, Keh was heading back toward Ophelia, and the three girls slumped in disappointment.


    Keh handed her two tickets, and Ophelia nced at the title Forest Guardians. It sounded like an animated movie. She suddenly remembered what Lisa had said, "Mr. Keh treats you like his daughter."


    1 ¡é& € 79%¡ã


    1


    "I''ll go grab some snacks," Keh said again. He soon returned with tworge sodas, a huge bucket of popcorn, and one of each snack from the disy case. People couldn''t help but stare at him in surprise as he bought it all. Anyone who frequented theaters knew that snacks here were way more expensive than what they''d get at a regr store.


    This was Ophelia''s first time at the theater, and as she hugged the popcorn Keh handed her, she felt an unexpected surge of happiness. As they queued to enter the theater, she noticed most of the people were parents with their kids, while here she was, holding tightly to Keh''s hand like a kid.


    Before the movie started, a trailer for an uing film yed on the big screen: On a Snowy Day, starring James and Sharon. Sharon, in a figure-hugging gown, looked stunning-her sharp eyebrows, fox-like eyes, and sultry figure gave seductive allure, but her performance was pure and heartfelt.


    her a


    Ophelia vaguely remembered that in herst life, this movie was pulled from theaters shortly after its release, when Sharon got caught up in a tax evasion scandal.

 Jilted Bride 30

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    When Sharon first entered the industry, she yed a lot of supporting roles. But after refusing to follow the unspoken rules of showbiz, she struggled to find work for a long time and gradually faded into obscurity. She had hoped On a Snowy Day would be her bigeback, but then the scandal hit.


    With the movie pulled from theaters, the only romance film left was Sprout, starring Emily and Rex. Despite being widely criticized and having such a low rating that it didn''t even show up on some tforms, the movie raked in huge box office numbers. Emily became the biggest beneficiary, suddenly thrust into the spotlight and even earning the title of "National First Crush." It was a career-defining moment for her.


    But Ophelia knew Sharon had been wronged. Not long after the scandal, Sharon tragically took her own life due to depression, and it wasn''t until yearster that her assistant, wracked with guilt, finally revealed the truth. But by then, it was toote. And the one who framed her was Sungate Entertainment.


    Ophelia was lost in thought when suddenly arge hand cupped her head and turned her to face him. "Is James better- looking than me?" Keh asked, his tone slightly possessive.


    Ophelia blinked in confusion. Keh hadpletely misunderstood-she wasn''t even looking at James, she was focused on Sharon.


    Suddenly, it all clicked. She nced at Keh, who had just taken off his mask, and asked, "Wait... so that''s why you picked an animated movie, huh?"


    Keh''s expression confirmed her suspicions. His look seemed to say: What do you think? You think I''d let you spend two hours staring at another man? Ophelia spread her arms and shook her head helplessly.


    As the lights in the theater dimmed, the movie began. Keh had specifically chosen seats in the back row, which had been empty when he bought the tickets. But shortly after the movie started, a young couple with a kid entered and sat right next to them. Keh had intended to do something more intimate in the back row, but he didn''t expect someone else to ruin his chance. He nced at Ophelia and ended up locking eyes with the little boy beside them, who seemed to be wondering, ''Why are there two grown-ups here without a kid? Keh instantly regretted choosing an animated movie.


    He spent most of the movie with a sour expression, asionally eating the popcorn and snacks that Ophelia handed him. Meanwhile, Ophelia, watching a movie in a theater for the first time, was fully engrossed.


    To her surprise, the animated movie wasn''t bad at all. In fact, it had a great message, with strong moral values and a lot of positivity for kids-much more enjoyable than some of the trashy romance movies she''d seen before.


    Ophelia was absorbed in the movie, while Keh waspletely absorbed in her. When the movie ended, Ophelia wasn''t ready to leave. "Can we watch another one, please?" Her eyes sparkled with excitement, and she looked at him with so much hope.


    "With those eyes, she could''ve asked for anything, and he''d give it to her-no questions asked. Keh closed his eyes briefly and nodded.


    Before they could even stand up, the little boy next to them started begging his mom, ""Mom, I want to watch another movie too..."


    "No way. Watching too many movies will hurt your eyes. We''re going home now." The boy''s face fell as he turned back, casting a jealous nce at Ophelia.


    13:56 Sun, Nov 10 BO Chapter 301Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    After they left the theater, Keh put his mask back on. At the exit, Mark was pacing nervously, constantly checking his watch. When he saw Keh, he hurried over to greet him while nodding slightly toward Ophelia. "Mr. Sinir, there''s a problem in Mgia. We need to rush there tonight."


    "You''re on a business trip?" Ophelia asked, noticing the rare flicker of apology in Keh''s normally unflinching gaze.


    "Yeah, not sure how long it''ll take," replied Keh.


    That uncertain answer left Ophelia with an odd feeling in her chest, like something heavy had suddenly been lifted off her, leaving her unbnced. In the past, Keh would disappear for weeks, sometimes months. In herst life, after their marriage, she hardly ever saw him. Now that he had spent a few weekends with her, she was already dreading his absence. ''People are always greedy,'' she thought. ''I should be happy. With him gone, at least my back would get a break!


    Keh gently ruffled her hair, his touch growing more tender by the day. "I''ll stay to finish this movie with you first," he said.


    Mark''s face showed a hint of concern, and Ophelia quickly masked her disappointment and said, "I don''t want to watch another animated movie. Go handle your business ande back soon."


    "Mr. Sinir, the ne''s ready," Mark added, trying to stay professional.


    "You don''t want this month''s sry, huh?" Keh''s re shot toward Mark like a dagger, sharp enough to send a chill through the air. Even with just his eyes visible, the sheer weight of Keh''s presence was suffocating. "Clear the theater," Keh ordered, and Mark immediately set to work. Soon, the theater was entirely empty, just the two of them left.


    Ophelia couldn''t even remember what movie was ying. She wasn''t in the mood, and it was clear that neither was Keh. They sat in the back row, and Keh''s lips began to trail soft, deliberate kisses along her mouth, then to her ear. Each one felt like he was trying to consume her, to make up for the time they''d soon be apart.


    "Next time Ie back, you won''t be able to use the same excuse anymore," Keh whispered teasingly into her ear. "Why clinging to me? Can''t bear to let me go, can you? How about we watch another movie then?" Keh said.


    ''No, please,'' Ophelia thought. She was struggling to catch her breath, trying to steady her rapid breathing. "It''s alreadyte," she managed to say.


    "Alright, I''m leaving," Keh said before nting a kiss on her forehead.


    "Take care," she replied.


    By the time Keh left, it was past 7 p.m. Ophelia, as nned, went to grab some French fries, but they didn''t taste as good as she''d hoped. The experience felt nd and empty without him.


    **


    For the next two days, Ophelia buried herself in finishing up a dress. After Emily had paid the seven million dors inpensation, Ophelia had Chloe send the gown to her. After all, she couldn''t just take the money without giving her the gown.


    When Emily received it, she wanted nothing more than to tear the damn thing to shreds. Seven million for such a gown? She felt like she''d beenpletely ripped off.


    The next morning, Ophelia received an anonymous text-it was a video. The footage was dark, but she could clearly make out Nathan getting beaten up by a group of guys in a back alley behind a bar. He had his hands over his head, his pink suit covered in footprints, and blood running from his nose.


    79%


    "What are you grinning about?" Chloe asked as she entered the studio, holding some documents. Lately, she''d been busy expanding their external business.


    Ophelia set her phone down, a sly smile ying on her lips. "I always enjoy seeing someone get their just deserts."


    Chloe handed Ophelia the documents. Before Ophelia could ask, Chloe exined, "Remember the designerpetition I signed you up for about two weeks ago? Well, it''s gained a lot of attention, and you''ve passed the first round.


    "It''s part of a reality show-ten unknown designers paired with ten celebrity models. There are six episodes in total, with three elimination rounds. The top two will get a spot in an internationalpetition and a chance to study at Denex University''s design institute for three months."


    Ophelia could feel the thoughtfulness through Chloe''s words, and she said, "Alright, I''ll give it a shot."


    Denex University''s design institute had once been her dream. But because of certain circumstances, she never made it. In herst life, the Hastings family had dangled the promise of college as a condition for her leaving Keh, and she had agreed. But her university experience had turned out to be a nightmare.


    "Thank you, Chloe," Ophelia said, her voice soft with gratitude. Besides her grandmother, it seemed Chloe was one of the few people who remembered her dreams.


    She wasn''t really aiming to go back to college this time. What caught her attention was a name on the contestant list. In herst life, she''d never even heard of this show, nor did she know that he had been part of it.


    0

 Jilted Bride 31

    Chapter


    31


    The first round of thepetition was just around the corner, and the production team had already sent over the content for the premiere. When Ophelia arrived at the TV station''s recording hall, the director''s team weed her. The moment they saw her, they lit up their


    eyes and sighed, "Finally someone normal hase here."


    "Hi there, I''m the show''s assistant director. Just call me Cici. If you have any questions during the recording, feel free toe to me. You can wait in the lounge for a while. Once all the designers are here, we''ll introduce you to your partners," said Cici.


    "Got it. Thanks." Ophelia nodded. Though the production notes said the teams would be randomly assigned, she knew this kind of show always had a script.


    She made her way to the waiting area, where two designers were already there-one guy and one girl. The girl had a total badass vibe going on: ck heavy-metal style outfit, smoky eye makeup, ck lipstick, and short, white hair. The guy, however, had long, straight hair and a womanlike face. He wore a tight V-neck tank top, showing off his chest.


    "The two of them clearly weren''t on good terms, and they sat as far away from each other as possible. Ophelia found a seat closer to the girl.


    As she sat down, the guy, in a slightly nasally voice, asked, "You''re also a designer? I thought you were some celebrity. I''m Daniel Hunt, a designer at Manns."


    1114


    Daniel finished with a slight tilt of his chin, full of himself. The girl in ck scoffed, "If you''re that big of a deal, why are you even here for apetition?"


    "None of your damn business," Daniel snapped back, his voice sharp and grating. "At least I''m not like you New Realm copycats."


    "Who the hell are you calling a copycat?!" the girl retorted.


    The next two minutes were a full-on verbal showdown, and the two of them went at it non-stop until someone else walked in, forcing them to dial it down a bit.


    Soon, nine out of ten designers had gathered in the lounge, and most were women. They started to chat with people they thought to be easygoing. Though they were billed as unknown designers, they were either working for a big-namepany or running their own studio, with plenty of design awards under their belt. The designmunity was small-most of them knew each other.


    With her cool demeanor and stunning looks, Ophelia naturally became the odd one out, as they subtly excluded her from their small groups.


    "Hey, I''m Marilyn Moore, but you can call me Mara," a girl said while extending her hand to Ophelia.


    Ophelia was caught off guard for a second, staring at the hand reaching out toward her. She looked up and met a pair of beautiful amber eyes. The girl had a doll-like face, with a tiny dimple near her mouth. She seemed about the same age as Ophelia.


    Ophelia thought her name sounded familiar but couldn''t quite ce it. She extended her hand and shook Marilyn''s. "Hi, Ophelia."


    "Marilyn shed her a quick smile before moving on to greet the others.


    Just as thest designer finally showed up, Ophelia nced up, and she suddenly froze when she saw that familiar face."


    "Sorry, I''mte." The man walked in while adjusting his ck-rimmed sses. His slightly curly hair framed a clean-cut, refined face. 13:56 Sun, Nov 10 BOU


    A few designers turned their heads toward the door and eximed, "Is that... Mr. Decker?"


    "No way, I thought this was an amateurpetition. How did they get him to attend this?" someone else said.


    "Is he famous?" Marilyn asked, puzzled.


    A woman with bright red lipstick gave Marilyn a condescending side-eye and exined, "He''s Brock Decker, chief designer for Lewis Group''s Fashion Ladies. You''ve seriously never heard of him? He''s a design prodigy. The gowns he designed at the age of twenty were already part of the design curriculum at Denex University."


    "Oh, it''s him? I had no idea he was so young." Marilyn practically glowed with admiration.


    Brock smiled and went around the room to shake hands with everyone. His approachable demeanor didn''t have a trace of


    arrogance.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    But when his gaze reached the far corner of the room, his expression froze for a brief moment. His smile on his face vanished. eyes widened, and the


    To his relief, at that very moment, the production team walked in. Brock, now surrounded by a crowd of designers, sat in the middle of the group, and no one seemed to notice the sh of shock that had crossed his face.


    With all ter designers present, they listened as the production team exined the next steps. But with Brock''s arrival, the unspoken understanding spread: no one was really gunning for first ce anymore. The best they could hope for now was runner-up. "Now I know why the top two get internationalpetition and training opportunities," someone murmured.


    "Isn''t it obvious? This wholepetition is just a promo for Fashion Ladies by Lewis Group," another girl said with a scoff.


    Hearing that, a girl with red hair asked in curiosity, "Why would Fashion Ladies even need promo? Isn''t it already an established brand?"


    "Haven''t you heard a new yer on the scene? It''s called La Reverie or something. They were almost like a myth, but now, they''ve opened a studio and a store. They''re all about gowns too so no wonder Fashion Ladies is feeling the pressure," another designer whispered.


    Now, it was time for everyone to "pretend" they had randomly drawn their numbers and go find their partners. The main point was for the contestants to get to know each other so that they could design outfits that really suited each other.


    Ophelia already knew her assigned partner was Samantha Jenkins, a former idol from a girl group. After asking around and finding out which dressing room was Samantha''s, she headed over.


    Before she even reached the door, she heard Samantha''s sharp voice from inside. "Are you kidding me? You expect me to model for some nobody designer? Even if I agreed, you think my fans would?"


    "Sami, calm down, okay? She made it to the top 100, so she''s got to have some talent. I checked out her designs, and she specializes in gowns. Don''t your fans love seeing you in gowns?" Samantha''s agent replied.


    Samantha retorted, "I don''t care how talented she is. I want a new partner right now. I''m not getting eliminated in the first round, you got it? Why didn''t you pair me with Brock? He also specializes in gowns and it''s a guaranteed win with him."


    ww


    Her agent sighed inwardly, ''You''re not exactly Brock-level material. Don''t you know that?'' However, she replied, "Alright, I''ll talk to the production team and see what we can do."


    Hearing this, Ophelia decided not to knock. Just then, the door swung open, and the agent nearly bumped into Ophelia. The agent immediately said, "Sorry about that. Uh, why don''t you head back to the lounge and take some rest?" Ophelia nodded and turned away. As she passed the other dressing rooms, she happened to run into Brock, who was just leaving Taylor Foster''s room. Taylor was a popr idol, who had arge fanbase.


    13:56 Sun, Nov 10 BOL.


    Brock''s expression was all cluarm and grace as he exined his design concepts to Taylor, but the moment he spotted Ophelia, his smile became noticeably stiff.


    "I just remembered I left something with my assistant. I''ll be right back," he said quickly, excusing himself. Then he shot a meaningful look at Ophelia, his polite smile fading as he walked off.


    In the stairwell, Brock took off his sses and wiped the sweat from his forehead, forcing a strained smile at Ophelia. "Ophelia, what a coincidence. I really didn''t expect to see you here on this show ''Coincidence? I don''t think so, thought Ophelia with a sneer,


    Brock could see the faint smile on her face, but her sharp eyes seemed to pierce right through him. This was the expression he feared most from her- and the one he hated the most.

 Jilted Bride 32

    Chapter


    32


    "Hey, why are you looking at me like that? Look, if you run into any problems here, just let me know, and I''ll do whatever I can to help you out," Brock said with a gentle look.


    Ophelia still didn''t say a word and just stared at him with that calm, knowing look. Her gaze alone seemed to strip away his defensesyer byyer. Brock swallowed hard, hands on his hips and nervously licked his lips. He finally asked, "Ophelia, what do you want?" His voice dropped, strained with desperation, the polite facadepletely gone as his brows knitted tightly together.


    After a short silence, Brock exhaled, ran his fingers through his hair, and fidgeted with his sses. "How about this, I''ll talk to the production team and make sure you get the runner-up spot. If it''s money you need, I''ll give you whatever I can. You know we''re both from the slums, and it hasn''t been easy for me to get where I am."


    "Hasn''t been easy for you?" Ophelia found his words funny. She hadn''t even said anything, and he was already this flustered. Brock opened his mouth to say something else, but someone from the crew was calling for him outside. "Mr. Decker..." "I''m begging you, Ophelia, please don''t let anyone know about my background," he whispered. Coming from the slums was still a stigma for him, and if people found out about his past, all his sess coulde crashing down.


    Ophelia neither agreed nor refused. Outside, the assistant kept calling his name. Brock slipped his sses back on and put on a polite smile as if nothing had happened. He then walked out, looking elegant as ever.


    The designers and celebrities had all gathered in the waiting area. The awkward part was that Ophelia didn''t have a model standing beside her. Samantha, who had just managed to switch to a more well-known designer, stood nearby and shot a disdainful nce in Ophelia''s direction.


    Samantha scoffed in her mind, ''Her? She''s probably just here because she''s got a pretty face and some connections. She''s a


    with her.'' cannon fodder for sure. Bet she''ll be the first to go. Poor soul who pairs up


    "Ophelia Spencer, right?" the director, Cameron Bishop, called her name, frowning as he looked at her file, which was practically nk. He thought, ''No wonder even someone as minor as Samantha didn''t want to partner with her. Who picked her anyway? "Anyone willing to partner with her?" Cameron asked. If no one stepped up, they''d just have to rece her. Designers like her were easy to invite, but celebrities were not.


    "Sir, hasn''t everything already been decided?" Taylor chimed in, worried that they might somehow mess things up and pull her away from Brock.


    Everyone had their own thoughts, and the bigger-name celebs were getting visibly impatient. Just then, a distinct voice spoke up, "I''ll team up with her." It was Sharon Campbell, the washed-up actress who had just been bumped off by Samantha. Her voice had that nasal quality that made it instantly recognizable.


    Her agent had only signed her up for this show to promote an uing movie-to make a quick appearance and get some screen time. Whether she got eliminated early or not didn''t really matter.


    ''A washed-up actress and a no-name designer... Yeah, that''s just what everyone expected,'' the crowd thought. "They are basically written off as the cannon fodders of the show.''


    Sharon walked over to Ophelia. Neither of them knew each other, and when they tried to exchange a polite nod, they awkwardly missed each other''s gaze.


    After confirming everything, the recording began with the celebrities being introduced one by one, followed by their designers.


    "Next, let''s wee Lora Smith. Lora Smith is twenty-nine years old, graduated from Yosk School of Design, and won


    13:56


    the first prize in the Future Fashion Stylists..." The host rattled off the des for each designer stepping on stage.


    Every designer here had a sparkling resume: prestigious schools, international design contests, chief designers for famous brands-even the two bickering earlier in the lounge. One had won a Young Designers Award, and the other was an international fashion influencer. Then it was Ophelia''s turn. The host nced down at her nk cue card and wanted to scream, but professionalism kept the smile stered on her face as she continued, "Let''s wee the final contestant, Ophelia Sinir." And that was it. No intro, no credentials. After hearing eight borate introductions, the audience was suddenly intrigued by this ninth designer who came with nothing. It made the other designers, who had been so full of themselves, snicker in disdain, but they couldn''t help feeling a bit wary. Finally, Brock''s turn came, and the host practically lit up. "And now, we have Brock Decker. He''s the first student from Heloria to attend the Royal College of Design and the chief designer for the Fashion Ladies.


    "His work was included in the 15 editions of Denex University textbooks. He has been invited to multiple international fashion designpetitions and is currently the vice president of the Heloria Designers Association."


    The host made sure to give Brock some extra time for his speech. Amid the apuse, his humble yet handsome demeanor caught the attention of many female audiences. Brock took the microphone and delivered a polished, gracious speech, full of praise for the contestants and the usual formalities. Next, each designer stepped forward to draw lots and determine their partner for thepetition. This was where the acting came in. When they were backstage, Cameron instructed them to show their surprise to the camera. These reactions had to be big and memorable. Some designers would act stunned to be paired with a high-profile celebrity, while some celebs would light up with excitement at being matched with a famous designer.


    When it was Ophelia''s turn, she kept her expression neutral as usual. After drawing her lot, she nced at Sharon, and her smile grew just slightly.


    "Cut! Ophelia, your reaction is way too nd. What''s wrong? You''re unhappy with your model?" Cameron shouted to Ophelia, and his words seemed to stir up trouble for her.


    "Nope, I''m very happy," she replied.


    Cameron said, "Then show it, okay? Look a little more excited."From N?velDrama.Org.


    "Okay," Ophelia replied in a calm tone.


    The cameras rolled again. This time, Ophelia looked at Sharon with a slightly wider smile after drawing her lot.


    "Stop, stop it. That''s basically the same as before. And don''t zero in on Sharon right away. You need to scan the room first, take in


    and then settle on her, got it?" Cameron said. everyone,


    "The other contestants looked at Ophelia with thinly veiled annoyance.


    "Can we not waste time here, please?"" one of them muttered."


    "Yup," another one echoed.


    "I''m a designer, not an actress," Ophelia shot back, leaving the whole room stunned. Even Cameron was momentarily speechless. In all his years in the industry, he had never been called out by a young girl like this.


    Sharon raised her eyebrows and was slightly amused. "The girl has got spunk,'' she thought. But Sharon was the only one who found Ophelia''s response endearing. Everyone else looked at her like she''d lost her mind-who in their right mind would


    13:56 Sun, Nov 10 BOL.


    openly defy the director?


    799


    Just as Cameron was about to blow up, Brock stepped forward, adjusted his sses, and spoke, "Sir, I actually think she''s got a point. Not everyone put on a show of surprise, right? If every reaction is the same, it just gets stale for the needs to audience. Authenticity is what really sells. Wouldn''t you agree?"


    Cameron shot Ophelia a re before turning to Brock with an awkwardugh. "Yeah, you''re right. She''s got her own style. Let''s move on."


    Brock nced at Ophelia out of the corner of his eye with a smile, seemingly expecting some thanks from her. However, Ophelia didn''t give a damn to his help and ignored him.


    COMMENT


    14:00 Sun, Nov 10 BOW.


    openly defy the director?


    Just as Cameron was about to blow up, Brock stepped forward, adjusted his sses, and spoke, "Sir, I actually think she''s got a point. Not everyone needs to put on a show of surprise, right? If every reaction is the same, it just gets stale for the audience. Authenticity is what really sells. Wouldn''t you agree?"


    Cameron shot Ophelia a re before turning to Brock with an awkwardugh. "Yeah, you''re right. She''s got her own style. Let''s move on."


    Brock nced at Ophelia out of the corner of his eye with a smile, seemingly expecting some thanks from her. However, Ophelia didn''t give a damn to his help and ignored him.

 Jilted Bride 33

    To everyone else, it looked like Ophelia had deliberately pulled some strings to get Brock''s attention.


    For the rest of the shoot, Cameron barely gave Ophelia any screen time, and even Sharon next to her was pretty much invisible. The second and third episodes were one-on-one knockout rounds, and the design theme was "prints". It was a 10- to-7 elimination round, judged by professionals. The five losing designers would be subject to a public vote. The bottom three would be eliminated.


    At the end of the episode, each contestant drew lots to determine their opponent, but the results weren''t revealed until the next episode. The director did this to wait for audience feedback after the episode had aired, nning to pit the most controversial contestants or celebrities against each other for more drama.


    After the shoot wrapped, Ophelia left the studio. When she got into the elevator, she happened to run into Sharon. Sharon stepped aside to give her room, and the doors closed, leaving just the two of them inside.


    Sharon looked even more stunning in person than in the movie trailer Ophelia had seen. Her fox-like eyes gave off a sultry vibe. It wasn''t the kind of face that the entertainment industry favored, and despite Sharon''s scandal-free career, her roles as scheming viins always drew criticism. Seeing her in person today, Ophelia understood why she hadn''t remembered this show from herst life.


    "By the way, thanks for today. I really appreciate you agreeing to team up with me," Ophelia said, and she was genuinely grateful. She knew that as an unknown designer, it wouldn''t have taken much for the director to simply rece her if no one had wanted to partner with her.


    "It''s no biggie. No one else wanted to team up with me either," Sharon replied, her tone carrying a sort of resigned indifference. She had the face of someone who always seemed to be plotting, but her words were blunt and straightforward The elevator fell into a brief silence. It wasn''t until Ophelia nced up that she realized neither of them had pressed a floor button, and the elevator hadn''t moved at all. She quickly pressed the button for the first floor.


    Sharon awkwardly pressed her lips together. Trying to break the tension, she casually asked, "So, you run your own studio?


    "Yeah, something like that," Ophelia replied. They exchanged a few words, and though Ophelia wasn''t usually one to get involved in other people''s business, she gave Sharon a bit of a heads-up. "You might run into some financial trouble soon. I''d suggest you take a good look at your ounts, especially your taxes." She almost came right out and told Sharon someone was setting her up.


    Sharon was stunned for a moment. Ophelia thought Sharon might dismiss her warning as nonsense, but to her surprise, Sharon seemed intrigued and immediately took it seriously. "Wait, are you some kind of fortune teller? A fortune teller once told me I''d face a disaster this year, but if a savior stepped in, I''d be able to avoid it. Could you be my savior?"


    Ophelia blinked, slightly caught off guard. Sharon looked so morous and aloof, yet she spoke with this oddly naive, almost ditzy vibe. ''She must''ve traded two-thirds of her brainpower for that killer face, Ophelia thought.


    "Maybe," Ophelia replied. "Just make sure you check everything thoroughly and handle it yourself. Don''t trust the people around you."


    They stepped out of the elevator together, and Sharon got into her car. Ophelia watched as the vehicle drove off into the distance. Hopefully, that warning sticks, she thought. If Sharon''s movie could crush Emily''s, that would be a nice bonus.


    "Ms. Spencer, please wait." As Ophelia was about to call for a cab a young man who looked like an assistant hurried down the steps and stopped her. "Ms. Spencer, Mr. Decker would like to invite you to his studio for a chat."


    Tve got no time," she responded in an aloof tone, already trying to walk around him.


    But the assistant was quick to follow her and insisted, "Mr. Decker said... you''ll make time. This way, please." There was a


    sharpness in his eyes, but he remained respectful as he opened the car door for her.


    78%


    Ophelia hesitated for a couple of seconds before getting in. She did have a few questions for Brock anyway. The assistant got into the driver''s seat, and after about half an hour, they arrived at a sleek office building in the city center. The design studio of Fashion Ladies took up an entire floor, which was impressively grand.


    "Ms. Spencer, please wait in Mr. Decker''s office for a moment," the assistant said while pouring her a cup of coffee.


    Ophelia looked around the spacious and bright office. She saw a few mannequins draped in various dresses and formal wear lining the walls.


    Not long after, Brock pushed the door open with a casual smile and said, "Sorry to keep you waiting, Ophelia. I had some things to handle."


    "What do you want to discuss?" Ophelia cut straight to the point. She wasn''t one for small talk, especially not with someone like him.


    "You haven''t changed since you were a kid-always so direct," Brock replied with a smile. He didn''t seem tense or surprised anymore, unlike their earlier encounter at the studio.


    Brock said in a serious tone, "You''ve seen how things are, right? I''ve got a lot of influence with the director. If you want to make a nante for yourself, all it takes is a word from me. I really do want to help you."


    "Ophelia gave him a half-smile and watched his seemingly sincere face.


    And then?" she asked, her tone light."


    "Then, after thepetition ends, I can arrange it for you, whether you want to go to Denex University or study abroad. I guarantee that when youe back, I''ll make sure you have a job as decent as mine. I''m genuinely looking out for you." As he spoke, Brock slid closer and reached out to take her hand, but ?phelia swiftly pulled away.


    Listening to his well-rehearsed lines, Ophelia suddenly burst intoughter. She already had a naturally sweet look, and when sheughed like this, Brock immediately rxed.


    "Since you''veid it out like that, I''d be ungrateful not to agree, huh?" Ophelia replied.


    ''Absolutely, Brock thought, though he kept that genuine smile on his face. This was the same act he''d used to fool her over and over in herst life.


    "I have just one request," Ophelia said, her voice steady.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    "What is it? I''ll do my best to fulfill it for you."


    "Give me back my grandmother''s sketchbook."


    The smile on Brock''s face froze instantly and he asked, "What sketchbook? I have no idea what you''re talking about." Ophelia wasn''t surprised by his reaction at all. In herst life, after her identity as the designer of La Reverie was revealed, Miles had tried to exploit her to boost Fashion Ladies. That was when she crossed paths with Brock again.


    Brock acted like he was doing everything to help her, but in reality, he was using her to secure his position as chief designer. It was only by chance that she discovered the sketchbook her grandmother had left her in his possession. Even with undeniable proof back then, he still was still as calm as he was now, lying through his teeth.


    Ophelia said, "I gave up my ce at the Royal College of Design to thank you for getting my grandmother to the hospital in nime and saving her life. I never intended to go, so you don''t need to worry about me holding that over you.


    "But this sketchbook is the only thing my grandmother left me. All your sess these past years came from that sketchbook. didn''t it? You''ve gotten everything you wanted from it. Give it back now, and you won''t lose a thing" 14:00 Sun, Nov 10 B


    Raw


    Do you have my peddy marys 1 pour disc, dep making wild arcusatione


    Chapers an


    COMMENT

 Jilted Bride 34

    Hearing what Brock said. Ophelia scoffed to herself. Staring at him, she said, "I don''t have proof, and you know I don''t. That''s why you''ve felt sofortable basking in the glory of the sketchbook all these years. But the moment you saw me, the guilt kicked in because deep down, you know none of this belongs to you." "Ophelia, don''t push your luck. I''m offering to help you because we grew up together. The offer from the Royal College of Design was rightfully mine, and those dresses were designed by the Brock''s voice grew louder, almost desperate to hammer the point home. He was always careful, worried that Ophelia might be recording their conversation. But Ophelia wasn''t doing anything. She just watched him with a calm smile and snapped. "You get me here because you''re out of ideas, aren''t you? All these promises you''re making are just your way of trying to get me to do your dirty work.


    "Nonsense! Why would I need a nobody like you?" Brock scoffed, but the defensive tone didn''t escape her notice.


    "Of course you''d say that. Ophelia thought. She then said to him "Oh, good to know. Then let''s just focus on thepetition, and no funny business." She stood up and walked out of the office. She knew getting the sketchbook back was nearly impossible. Greedy people would never be satisfied. But giving him a little warning still seemed necessary.


    As Brock watched her leave, he felt a flicker of doubt about her words, though one thing was clear-she wasn''t as easy to manipte as she used to be. He figured he needed to find someone else to help with his n.


    Meanwhile, in a private ward at the hospital, Nathany in bed, bandaged up with gauze wrapped around his head and his right arm in a sling across his chest. His mouth was still bruised, and his swollen eyes barely allowed him to see. His whole face was so swollen that it was hard to even recognize him.


    He had been beaten up after a drunken night out, but it didn''t take a genius to guess who was behind it. Making me apologize and record it? That venomous bitch, Nathan cursed inwardly.


    If regr muscle couldn''t handle her, then he''d pay for something more serious. Struggling to work his phone with his one good hand, Nathan ced a bounty on the dark web. In ces like that, as long as the money was alluring, there was nothing they wouldn''t do. He''d make Ophelia pay for this.


    The next day, Fashion Designer aired. Though the name was pretty cheesy, it still managed to pull decent ratings thanks to all the big-name celebrities involved.


    Online, the designers weren''t getting much attention-everyone was focused on the celebrities. But, as with any show, nothing could stop fans from shipping couples. Soon enough, fans started creating all sorts of pairings. Even Ophelia wasn''t spared-she and Sharon were dubbed "Poker Face Allies byizens. Of course, Ophelia hadn''t heard any of this yet.


    With Keh still on his business trip, Ophelia stayed at the studio over the weekend. Lisa came by every day to bring her food. After a few trips, she ended up making enough for Wyatt and Chloe too.


    "Ms. Ophelia, Mr. Keh specifically instructed me to take your meals seriously," Outside of the house, Lisa avoided calling her "Mrs. Sinir to keep things casual, and besides, "Ms. Ophel just felt warmer, "Every time you eat with Mr. Keh. he notices if you take more than three bites of a dish. He''s told us to make sure your meals suit your tastes."


    Ophelia looked down at the food, all of which was her favorite. The sight rxed her, easing some of the stress from her busy schedule. ''I wonder how much Keh pays Lisa. She''s singing his praises even behind his back, she thought, amused. And she suddenly realized that she didn''t even have Keh''s WhatsApp.


    Chloe was simr to Ophelia in a lot of ways-if no one brough something up, she wouldn''t ask. Eventhough she knew Ophelia''s boyfriend had aplicated background, she never pled. 14:45 Mon, Nov 11 + Chapter 34


    Soon, it was time to record the second episode. By now, the designers had gotten to know each other better, and as they chatted in the waiting room, they discussed the onlinemen Some were happy, while others were more anxious.


    Marilyn came over to greet Ophelia with a grin. "Ms. Spencer, I saw the stuff about you and Sharon online. They''re calling you two Poker Face Allies. That''s funny"


    Ophelia wasn''t used to being called "Ms. Spencer, so she said, "You can just call me by my name, or Elia, if you like." She preferred it when people addressed her more casually,


    "Alright, you can call me Mara, Marilyn replied.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    They chatted for a bit before the director came in, looking noticeably more cheerful thanst time-likely pleased with the show''s ratings.


    "Guys, I''m going to announce your pairs, Cameron said. Everyone held their breath, terrified of being paired with Brock. Losing to him would almost guarantee elimination.


    "Marilyn vs. Brock," Cameron announced.


    Marilyn''s expression suddenly froze, while the rest of the room collectively sighed in relief. Someone tried tofort her and said. "Rx, at least you''ll learn a lot from going up against Brock."


    Marilyn bit her lip, looking like she was doomed. Brock, however, suddenly turned to Marilyn and shed her a charming smile. For a girl in her early twenties, it was too much to handle her heart started racing.


    "Ophelia vs. Daniel, Cameron called next. When Daniel heard Ophelia''s name, he nced around, and as soon as he spotted her, he burst intoughter and rolled his eyes dramatically. "That''s too easy, seriously, he scoffed. Ophelia maintained her stone-cold look and said nothing in response.


    The drawing process wrapped up quickly, and with that, the shoot for the day was over. Over the next couple of days, the production team would visit the designers'' studios or homes to film behind-the-scenes content. Ophelia didn''t want to reveal her identity as La Reverie''s designer too soon-it would just turn Brock into a bigger problem. So she rented a hotel suite instead.


    She had barely gotten the room card when Keh made a call to her. Judging by the time, it should be around 2 am in Mgia.


    "Do you miss me?" His voice was deep andzy,


    "Mhm, replied Ophelia.


    "Mhm? Is that a yes or no? Say you miss me," added Keh,


    And just like that, they ended up talking for over ten minutes, a conversation full of light, meaningless chatter.


    "If it''s inconvenient staying at Rosewood Manor, I''ve got a small apartment you can use. Cancel the hotel. I''ll have someone send you the keys," Keh suggested.


    "That''s not necessary, Ophelia exined for a while, trying to convince him that it was just for a show shoot. But Keh wouldn''t budge. Before the call even ended, someone was already delivering the keys to her. She shook her head and epted it. "Oh, by the way, do you use WhatsApp? Ophelia suddenly asked


    "WhatsApp? Yeah, sure," replied Keh.


    "Let''s add each other, then,'' said Ophelia.


    "Okay," Keh answered.


    14:45 Mon, Nov 11 t.


    After Keh hung up-he-igimediately called Mark, who was fast asleep. Mark was used to getting woken up in the middle of the night, and within a few minutes, he was standing in front of Keh. Keh tossed his phone toward Mark and said, "Register WhatsApp for me!


    Mark thought helplessly, ''He woke me up in the middle of the night... just to help him register for WhatsApp


    "Once you''re done, add Ophelia." Keh added, not noticing Mark''s mild frustration.


    Mark took a deep breath but knew better than toin.


    Keh casually remarked, "Your car looks like it needs recing, doesn''t it?"


    Suddenly wide awake, Mark wasted no time, downloaded WhatsApp, and got everything set up. He then said, "Mr. Sinir, what nickname do you want to use?"


    Annoying, Keh replied.


    "Got it," said Mark


    Meanwhile, in Denex, Ophelia received a WhatsApp message from Keh.

 Jilted Bride 35

    When Ophelia saw Keh''s nickname, she was stunned for a moment. Yet he quickly changed it to "Ken", set his profile picture to solid ck, and left the background nk.


    Ophelia sent him a message: [Did you just create this ount?] Mark, who was showing Keh how to use WhatsApp, read the message out loud.


    "Tell her it''s not. Forget it, give it to me. Shall press this button to reply?" Keh asked, clearly ready to handle it himself.


    Mark nodded and thought to himself, ''Even my dad is better at WhatsApp than you, Boss.


    But Keh quickly mastered all the features. Adding Keh on WhatsApp turned out to be a bit of a trap for Ophelia. Once he figured out how to use video calls, he made sure to supervise her move into his apartment.


    She thought his idea of a "small" apartment would be ridiculously oversized, but to her surprise, it was actually pretty modest-only about 1,600 square feet, with simple and understated decor. There was just one bedroom and a study; the rest. of the space was open- concept, with massive floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the city''s iconic skyline.


    "This is developed by Sinir Group," Keh exined over the video call. "I have got three units on this floor. If you don''t like it. I''ve got more in another building, and I can have one decorated to your taste.


    Ophelia stared at his charming face on the screen and sighed, "That''s sheer extravagance. She then replied, "No need to go to all that trouble. Something simple is fine."


    As my wife, ''simple'' is never an option," he teased.


    Ophelia rolled her eyes but didn''t argue. She muttered in her mind, Fine, you''ve got a point. They continued chatting. going back and forth with yful banter, and it took a good while before they finally hung up. some of


    of her things in. The next day, the Later that evening, Liam and his team came by to tidy up the apartment and move director and the camera crew arrived for the shoot. Ophelia didn''t have much time to prepare-it was already dark by the time they came.


    Cameron, the director who hadn''t thought much of her before, was visibly surprised when he saw where she was staying. He knew the area well, and this property, being Sinir''s development, had a sky-high price tag. Plus, the units were only for sale, not rent. There was no way she could''ve just rented it.


    "This is... your house?" Cameron nced at her suspiciously while the camera crew set up.


    "No, I''m borrowing it," Ophelia replied casually.


    When Cameron heard Ophelia say she just borrowed the house, he immediately switched back to his dismissive attitude and started lecturing her. "Don''t be so vain. I get it, designers like you want to get noticed andnd more jobs through this show, but in the end, it''s about skill, Stop with all the shy stuff


    "You''re absolutely right, sir," Ophelia replied.


    Her response made Cameron feel quite pleased with himself, and he thought, ''Good, now she knows better than to offend the director.


    After Ophelia had mouthed off to him before, her screen time in the first episode was so minimal. Ophelia didn''t care too much about it, but she didn''t want Sharon to suffer from the sameck of exposure. So this time, she yed it smart.


    As the equipment was set up. Ophelia appeared on camera without makeup, fully focused on her work. After about twenty minutes of filming, Cameron nced over briefly and said, "That''s enough. We''ve got what we need." Out of those twenty minutes, he''d probably only cut no more than five minutes for the actual episode.


    10360%


    After the second episode aired, with five head-to-head matchups, all audiences were left guessing which teams woulde out on top. By the time the third episode started filming, the tension between the teams was palpable-just the kind of drama Cameron was hoping for.


    In the dressing room, Sharon slipped into the dress Ophelia had designed for her. It was a floor-length gown in peacock green, with bellflower patterns embroidered in purple thread along the shoulders and waist. The dress had a mandarin cor with a purple gemstone at the sp, and the three-quarter sleeves left little skin exposed, yet Sharon''s perfect figure was still on full disy.


    The stylist couldn''t help but exim. "Gosh, I don''t know if I should praise the dress or your amazing shape. Sharon, you were made for gowns like this."


    Sharon''s makeup had also been styled by Ophelia''s instructions with a vintage twist-arched brows framing her fox-like eyes, which were long and upward, giving her a sultry yet not overly seductive look.


    You''ve seen my movie trailer, haven''t you?" Sharon asked, a note of surprise in her voice. "So... you''re subtly helping me promote the movie, right?" Though phrased as a question, she already knew the answer. The look was strikingly simr to her character''s style in the movie, only with a more morous and fitted gown"


    A feeling of gratitude swelled in Sharon''s chest. Even her ownpany wasn''t willing to spend money to promote the movie, yet Ophelia was subtly doing it for her.


    "No need to thank me," Ophelia said with a smile. "We''re helping each other. Honestly, no one else could''ve worn this gown as well as you"


    Even though Ophelia brushed it off, Sharon couldn''t help but feel deeply appreciative of the gesture.


    "By the way, did you take my advice to heart?" Ophelia couldn''t help but ask, still a bit concerned. She believed Sharon''s movie would outperform Emily''s, as long as the same issues from the past didn''te up again. "I really really appreciate that," Sharon replied. "Actually, the day you mentioned it, I got a notice about back taxes, but I thought it was a scam. Thanks to your warning. I checked into it and I''ve already taken care of it "You really are my lucky star. If I hadn''t caught it in time and ended up with a tax evasion scandal, I''d never have been able to clear my name.


    In the entertainment industry, that kind of thing was the kiss of death. Once it got exposed, no one cared about exnations. Even for someone as low-profile as Sharon, it wasn''t worth the risk.


    Ophelia sighed in relief and said, "Good to hear that"Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "But seriously, how did you know I had tax problems?" Sharon asked, genuinely curious. She wondered if it was written on her face.


    "Uh... I''ll just say I have a knack for fortune-telling. Do you believe that? Ophelia joked, making something up on the spot. To her surprise, Sharon actually bought it. "Really? Then can you tell me what my career path looks like?"


    Ophelia rubbed her temples, but she realized Sharon wasn''t at all like she had expected-Sharon was genuinely nice. "You''re going to win Best Actress this year," Ophelia said.


    "Woah, well, I''ll take that as a good omen." Sharon burst outughing. Her mouth was wide, and with her brick-red lipstick, it was quite a sight. Ophelia thought she looked better with a more serious expression.


    For the third recording session, the show brought in hundreds of audiences, along with some top-tier industry judges.


    14:45 Mon, Nov 11 uti.


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    First, the models would walk the runway with the audience casting their votes. Then, the designers would face off two by two to present their design concepts for the judges to score. The winners would advance to the next round, while the five with the lowest scores would be eliminated.


    Backstage, Marilyn was nervously taking deep breaths. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Ophelia, who looked calm and collected, as if she didn''t have a care in the world.


    "Why are you so chill? I''m freaking out. I feel like this is myst shooting. If only my opponent wasn''t Brock. And we''re both designing gowns... Marilyn trailed off, her anxiety palpable.

 Jilted Bride 36

    imed by him. She foolishly paved the way for Brock''s sess just like Ophelia in herst life.


    When Ophelia saw Marilyn''s designs, she finally understood what Brock had been up to all along. It also exined why Marilyn''s name had felt so familiar when she first heard it. This innocent and talented girlter became Brock''s assistant, and all her designs were In the first round of thepetition, not only did Ophelia advance, but she even outscored Brock in the audience votes by two. Yet, thanks to the judges'' votes, Brock still clung to the top spot,


    "Well, well, looks like the new wave is really impressive. Congrats, Ophelia Brock''s eyes gleamed with fake warmth behind his sses,


    Ophelia nodded slightly to him and replied, "Your design''s pretty good too. It''s just that the floral pattern was... a bit


    unnecessary.


    Brock''s smile froze when he heard that. Ophelia''sment was no doubt a subtle jab. His design was straight from Ophelia''s grandmother''s sketchbook. Did he really think that changing the color and adding some extra details would slip past me? How stupid, Ophelia scoffed in her mind.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    One of the judges beside Brock whispered, "Mr. Decker, don''t stoop to the level of these youngsters. They always talk a big game.


    "Exactly! Just because she won one round, she thinks she''s all that. And now she''s got the nerve to criticize Mr. Decker''s work, another chimed in.


    As they walked off, Brock cast a long, hard look at Ophelia. That look said more than words ever could.


    Of the three eliminated contestants, there was Daniel, the heavy metal girl who never got on with him, and then Samantha''s designer. As Samantha left the stage, she spotted Ophelia and shot her a venomous re. "You cunning bitch! If you''d just stopped me when I wanted to change designers, I wouldn''t have been kicked out so early."


    Ophelia let out a coldugh. "How ridiculous. Did she expect me to beg her back then?'' Ophelia thought.


    Before she


    uld p back. Sharon''s unmistakable voice rang out from behind. "What skincare routine are you using to make you so thick-skinned? Wasn''t it you who looked down on your designer and insisted on switching to another one? Who could''ve stopped you? And if they did, who would take the me when yoush out at them?"


    Sharon had this way of roasting people without a single curse word, and she nailed it every time.


    Ophelia couldn''t hold back herughter. She gave Samantha a small nod and said, "Thanks for passing on me. I paired such a great model because of you. If I''d been stuck with someone else. I''d probably be the one getting eliminated." Her meaning was clear-Samantha just didn''t cut it.


    "You guys better not get too ahead of yourselves. You just got lucky this time and rode on Mr. Decker''s coattails. These people just happened to like gowns. Just wait until the next round You''re getting kicked out for sure, Samantha spitted her curse with all her might. However, the result in the next round would be the opposite of what Samantha hoped for.


    In the top 7-to-4 elimination round, Ophelia advanced easily, and online buzz even had her surpassing Brock for a while.


    Fans were all hyped about Poker Face Allies, and Sharo

 Jilted Bride 37

    60%


    Emily had always maintained a delicate and soft-spoken image in public, and after her real identity was revealed, she took on a full humble persona. She was polite to everyone now, even to those barely-known actors she used to ignore. This new attitude made people quickly forget the scandal she''d orchestrated not long ago.


    "You haven''t heard that? The recent reality show is blowing up right now, a designerpetition, and somehow Sharon got lucky as hell to be paired with a professional designer. Every outfit and look for Sharon is praised to the skies," the actress exined. "Yeah, and apparently she''s got some movieing out soon. It wasn''t getting much attention at first, but now, every screening is sold out. Ugh, I''m so jealous," another girl added.


    Emily had been so caught up with her current project that she hadn''t been paying attention to any of this. "What''s Nathan even doing? Wasn''t he supposed to deliver a fatal blow to Sharon and end her career once and for all? Now the movie is just two days away from release, and Sharon has so much screen time. What about my movie? Emily thought.


    Frustrated, she grabbed her phone from her assistant and decided to check out the show herself. She hadn''t even heard of it before. As she scrolled, suddenly, a familiar face caught her eye. Ophelia? What''s she doing here?'' she wondered.


    She clicked-on the video and found out that Ophelia was one of the designers, and Sharon was her partner


    No way. Ophelia has knacks for designing? Could it be that she''s not just working at La Reverie, but is one of their actual designers? The more Emily thought about it, the more possible it seemed. Seeing how well they were doing,pared to her own situation, Emily''s blood boiled. She knew she needed to figure something out-and fast.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    The next day. Ophelia got a call from the show''s production team. "Ophelia, how''s the final designing along?" Cameron''s tone was unusually calm, even a bit fawning, which caught Ophelia off guard.


    "We still have a week left, don''t we?" Ophelia asked.


    "Yes, no rush at all. I was just checking. Hope you don''t feel pressure for the finals. You know I''m only tough on you because I have such high hopes for you," Cameron exined. ng out o


    of your own mouth?'' Ophelia scoffed in her mind. She said in a ''Oh,e one. Do you even believe the wordsing calm tone, "Mr. Bishop, why don''t you juste to the point?"


    Cameron let out an awkward chuckle, "Not only are you serious about your work, but you don''t mince words either. You know what, I was just like that when I was younger. I really admire your personality. It''s good for young people to have some fire. By the way, I''ve arranged for a better model for you in the finals, so..."


    "You''re swapping my model?" Ophelia cut him off.


    Cameron cleared his throat and replied, "Yeah, that''s right. You know her-your sister, Emily."


    Now, it made sense why Cameron was being so nice to her. He must''ve found out about her connection to the Hastings family. Emily was trying to make things difficult for her, no doubt.


    "If it''s not Sharon, I won''t use anyone else," Ophelia said firmly, leaving no room to negotiate.


    "But Sharon''s caught up in a bunch of scandals right now. I don''t want her to negatively affect the show''s finale. And you don''t want her drama dragging down your votes, do you?" he tried to reason.


    ''Scandals? What scandals? Ophelia was confused. She didn''t respond to Cameron right away. Instead, she hung up and opened Twitter. Right there in the trending topics, she saw it: Sharon breaks contract with the agency that made her famous 14:45 Mon, Nov 11 U


    K60%a


    Sharon had won Best Supporting Actress when she first started out. But, being young and headstrong, she refused to y by the unspoken rules of the industry and turned down offers from some major directors. That ruffled a lot of feathers, and in the end, her agency basically shelved her.


    Ophelia had already heard that Sharon''s contract with Starry Media was about to expire. Back when Sharon wasn''t making waves, no one cared, but now, with over a million new followers and her movie gaining major buzz, there was no way Starry Media was letting her go that easily.


    Once a celebrity gotbeled as "ungrateful" or "disloyal", it was nearly impossible to shake it off. No matter how hard they try to move forward, that stain would stick. And now, Sharon was being painted with that very brush.


    Soon after that, Sharon''s ex-agent Kelly Hans was throwing more fuel on the fire, using Sharon of defying the agency, taking private gigs behind their back, getting involved with a married director, and living a messy personal life.


    It wasn''t exactly the same asst time, but these types of scandals were career killers for an actress like Sharon. And right now, her chances of bouncing back seemed slim to none.


    Ophelia tried calling Sharon, but the phone went straight to voicemail. The online hate was massive, and it was clear that someone was stirring the pot. It wouldn''t be surprising if Sungate Entertainment had a hand in all of this. Sharon''s Twitter followers had shot past 10 million, but over half of them were anti-fans. Under every post,ments were full of insules and trolling, and people were even flooding her movie promos with nasty remarks Meanwhile, Emily posted glossy photos from her new movie. To say she wasn''t involved in this mess? Only a fool would


    believe that.


    Ophelia closed her eyes to recall carefully. She vaguely remembered that in herst life, after Sharon''s suicide, a male artist from Starry Media had exposed some dark secrets about thepany, but no one paid attention at the time. That guy eventually faded from the public eye as well. "Chloe, I need a favor," Ophelia suddenly said.


    Chloe turned herptop around to show Ophelia the screen. From the moment Ophelia got that call from the director about switching models, Chloe had already tracked down Kelly''s IP address, hacked her device, and pulled four screenshots of chat logs and a video. She knew Ophelia always said she didn''t like meddling in other people''s business, but deep down, there was this righteous streak she couldn''t ignore. Chloe was used to it by now.


    Ophelia scratched her ear and said, "I''m just helping myself. I don''t want Emily to work with me; that would make me sick"


    Chloe''s face seemed to say, "Sure, whatever you say. As long as you believe it.


    Ophelia added, "By the way, can you also help me find..."


    "Sharon''s address? Unit 1603 of Dreamscape Apartments, 78 Horizon Avenue."


    ''Amazing, she''s always one step ahead of what I want, thought Ophelia.


    A few hourster, at Dreamscape Apartments, Ophelia rang the doorbell of Unit 1605. It buzzed a few times with no response. She tried Sharon''s phone again, but it was still off.


    Ophelia knew Chloe''s information couldn''t be wrong. She knocked hard on the door, and the sound echoed through the hallway. Finally, the door creaked open. Sharon appeared in the doorway with a ck camisole and looked a mess, with her hair all tangled up. Her face, which had been full of irritation, softened into surprise when she saw who it was. "Ophelia? What are here? How do you even know where I live?"


    you doing


    14:45 Mon. Nov 11 U.


    Til exin inside," Ophelia said while walking into the house.


    Sharon stepped aside to let her in and nced around the hallway before shutting the door.


    ek 60%a


    The apartment was small but tidy enough-a one-bedroom, one-bath setup. The coffee table was littered with takeout containers from what looked like leftover crawfish, and the trash was full of empty beer cans. Sharon clearly wasn''t in the best ce right now. "Take a seat," Sharon said with a yawn while scratching her head


    Ophelia picked up a bra that had been tossed on the sofa with her finger and flung it to the side before sitting down. She then came to the point. "Cameron called me today, saying they''re nning to rece my model for the finals. What''s your take on that?"

 Ilted Bride 38

    Sharon hung her head and had already expecting this oue. She said in a sad tone, "Sorry, I''ve dragged you into this mess. Switching models is probably for the best anyway. With all this dirt on me, I might mess up your chances." "But I didn''t agree to it. Before I came here, I told Cameron thats long as we can clear up the scandal, you''re staying as my model Ophelia replied.


    Sharon thought she must''ve heard wrong. A flicker of hope crossed her face, but it was quickly reced by a sense of defeat.


    She said. "Forget it. There''s no way I can take on Starry Media. They''ve shelved me for years, and if they want to cklist me now, it''s a walk in the park. When the show started picking up steam in the early episodes, they tried to use me to push new talent, and I refused.


    their


    "Then, when my contract was up, I decided not to renew. I knew they had dirt on me, but I don''t care anymore. How much worse can it get? I''ll just quit acting if I have to.


    "My respect," Ophelia said. Sharon couldn''t tell if Ophelia meant that as apliment or sarcasm, so she just let it slide. "Well, if that''s your attitude, I guess I came here for nothing." Ophelia made a show of getting up to leave, but Sharon stayed glued to her seat, her head still down.


    The door creaked open and then mmed shut. Sharon jerked her head up and opened her mouth to call out. But instead, she locked eyes with Ophelia, who was leaning casually against the wall.


    Wait, she didn''t leave? Was she disappointed in me just now? Sharon thought to herself. She didn''t know why, but she suddenly felt this overwhelming urge not to let Ophelia down. She''d been ready to give up and let it all go, but somehow, Ophelia''s presence told her she shouldn''t just throw in the towel


    The truth was, Sharon loved acting-no matter how small the role, she loved it. "You You really believe I''m not that kind of person?" Sharon hesitated to ask.


    "I believe you." Ophelia''s response came almost instantly. She just said three simple words, but each one hit Sharon like a punch to the gut.


    Sincest night, everyone around Sharon had already written her off as some backstabbing, ungrateful has-been who ditched herpany the second she got famous. After the scandals blew up, not a single person believed she was innocent. But Ophelia stood in front of her, saying she was.


    Sharon''s eyes reddened, her voice shaking. "So... what do I do now? I''ve already cut ties with thepany, and I don''t even have an agent anymore."


    "After all these years, you don''t have any dirt on thepany?" Ophelia asked, raising her eyebrows.


    Sharon slumped, thinking there was no way she could take on a giant like Starry Media,


    Ophelia seemed to pick up on her thoughts and said, "You''ll never know if you can unless you try


    "How. How do I try?" Sharon asked.


    "You''re buried in scandals right now, so even if you leak something on thepany, it''ll just get drowned out, and it might even make people more convinced you''re guilty. But I remember that Starry Media''s go-to second lead, Thomas Collins, has been itching to break his contract for ages, right?


    He''s been in the industry for five years ying the second male lead while thepany keeps pushing those talentless pretty boys. His faris have been calling fouls for a while now. If he''s the one to spill the tea, especially now, it''ll get people talking


    24 60%a


    In thest timeline. Thomas had tried to expose Starry Media right before his contract ended, but no one paid attention. and it fizzled out eventually.


    Ophelia added. "And there''s Jaines. He''s probably more anxious than you right now-his directorial debut is riding on you. Thest thing he wants is for you to get cklisted.


    "You could talk to him and get him to poach Thomas. That way, Thomas''s breach of contract fee is covered, and he gets a career boost. Maybe Thomas will be willing to return the favor.


    Not maybe, Ophelia believed Thomas would surely help Sharon, Ophelia hadid it all out and even came up Now it was up to Sharon to execute. As someone outside the showbiz, it was all she could do.


    with the n.


    "I''ve also got a video and some chat screenshots. I''ve sent them over to your phone. See if they help," Ophelia said again.


    Sharon waspletely dumbfounded, and she stared at Ophelia in awe. How did shee up with all of this? She''s thought of everything for me, thought Sharon. She gazed at Ophelia, her eyes wide with admiration like she were looking at a long-lost lover. She couldn''t hide her emotions at all.


    Ophelia said with a frown, "Stop looking at me like that. I''m only doing this for my own b


    But before she could finish, Sharon leaped at her like a giant puppy and hugged her tight. "I don''t care what your reasons are. Even if you''re just using me, I''m all in. Hell, even if you deceive me, I''d say yes."


    "Ophelia rolled her eyes. She wasn''t interested in deceiving her at all.


    She pushed Sharon away with a look of exasperation, thinking this wasn''t the person she knew at all. What was her world-weary attitude?*


    That night, Sharon, disguised and barely recognizable, made her way to one of the vis where James often stayed. They had gone to the same school, so they had some history. After sheid everything out for him, James didn''t hesitate to agree. The new movie had a massive budget-over a hundred million. If it got cklisted or dyed, his investment would be flushed down the drain.


    By noon the next day, Thomas posted a lengthy statement, detailing all the injustices he''d suffered at Starry Media over the


    years.


    In his four and a half years there, he''d earned thepany 10 million dors, but he only took less than 1.5 million dors. The worst part was that thepany made him pay taxes based on an ie of 10 million dors on his own.


    He posted receipts, screenshots of his chats with his agent, and even a video of his boss humiliating him. He added that hiswyers were already involved. In an instant, Thomas''s fans were up in arms, and the tide of public opinion flipped. [Unbelievable! Sharon probably left Starry Media because she couldn''t take it anymore.]


    [No wonder they''reing after her with all these fake scandals. So disgusting!]


    [Sharon hasn''t had a single decent project since joining Starry Medial


    [Actually, she has. Her side gig film as the lead is dropping tomorrow night!]


    I''m definitely going to watch it. Amazing Sharon, poor Thomas


    Starry Media''s dirtyundry didn''t stop there. After Thomas, seven more artists came forward that day, using the momentum to expose thepany''s shady dealings, like forcing female stars to trade favors for roles, making money off breach of contract fines, and more. Throughout all this, Sharon stayed silent. But thements under her Twitter posts shifted from insults to sympathy and support. James''s studio released a new promotional video for the movie, and fans put together aption showcasing 14.49 MON, NOV!


    3Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Sharon''s acting highlights from over the years. She gained even more followers through this.


    Sharon stared at it all in disbelief, her eyes once again full of awe as she looked at Ophelia. She couldn''t help but think, ''How is she so amazing? Ophelia is really my guardian angel.


    "Now," Ophelia said, "send out a tweet. Thank everyone for their support, plug the movie, and tag Cameron while you''re at it."


    "On it," Sharon said, quickly typing out the tweet.


    Once everything was in ce, Ophelia dialed Cameron and said Mr. Bishop, I assume there''s no need to change my model now, right?"

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    Cameron hesitated on the other end of the line, stammering for moment. He couldn''t believe all those scandals had been cleared up in just one day.


    "Mr. Bishop," Ophelia continued, cutting through the silence. "Sharon''s image has just been cleaned up, and her buzz is through the rool. Are you really going to drop all this for a neer


    Cameron let out a nervous chuckle. Ophelia had a point. Swapping out Sharon at this stage would stir up controversy, and now that she had cleared her name, there was no reason to rece her. Fine, Poker Face Allies have a lot of fans rooting for you guys. I won''t split you up."


    "Thank you, Mr. Bishop Ophelia was just about to hang up when Cameron''s voice popped back through the receiver


    "Oh, and one more thing. For the finals, we need the designs sulmitted early. We''ve got an international judgeing in, and he''s a tough one. If nothing catches his eye, he might not even bother showing up. So, we''ll need to get a look at all four contestants'' designs beforehand. You want to send yours over, or..."


    "I''ll bring them byter," Ophelia responded.


    "Great, I''ll be waiting for you, Cameron said and hung up with a sigh.


    What else can I do? Lewis Group is funding this show, he thought, realizing he''d have to rece Taylor after all.


    On the day of the filming of the finals, everything felt more extravagant-a bigger audience and a fancier stage


    Two crew members whispered while they set up the stage. "I heard Taylor got hurt on a shoot, so Brock is using one of Sungate Entertainment''s artists as his model now,"


    Do you


    believe that? Seems like someone''s just riding the wave of attention. No one knows who the neer is, but suddenly they''re bumping Taylor out, tsk..." replied another.


    Backstage in the dressing room, Emily, dressed in a preppy school outfit, stood obediently beside Miles. "Miles, I heard Ophelia''s in thispetition too. I''d love to be her model and help her out..."


    "Help her? What for? You still want to be humiliated?" Miles''s face darkened at the mention of Ophelia. He hadn''t realized she was in thepetition too. If he''d known, he would''ve made sure she didn''t make it past the first round.


    He thought, ''I have to admit that she must''ve had a stroke of luck to make it this far. Whatever, at the end of the day, they all work to generate buzz for Fashion Ladies. It doesn''t really matter


    "I just want to get along better with her," Emily said softly. After all, she''s the real daughter of Mom and Dal"


    Miles looked at the girl he once adored, now so humble and eager to please, and he felt a pang of guilt. He said, "Don''t worry, Emily. Even if the whole world turns its back on you, youth still have me. Let me introduce you to your designerter. He''s the head designer at Fashion Ladies, and with him, you''re sure to ace it."


    "Thank you, Miles." Emily stood on tiptoes and kissed his cheek then quickly ducked her head with a blush. She mused. If Sharon could blow up from this show, why can''t I? Besides, it will be the perfect way to promote the new movie. I''m more popr than Sharon, and when ites to the box office, I definitely won''t lose


    Meanwhile, in the dressing room, when Sharon pulled back the curtain and stepped out, collective cheers filled the room. "Wow! That''s stunning," a model said.


    "She looks incredible," a crew member sighed while snapping a picture of Sharon.


    14-40 Mon,


    "But... isn''t it a little ton bold another model said.


    The theme for the finals was red carpet, and most designers lead toward creating something luxurious. But Ophelia had taken apletely different approach to create something that delivered a powerful visual impact


    Ophelia was satisfied, and she thought only Sharon could perfecly disy her gown. "Darken the eyebrows a bit," Ophelia instructed the makeup artist, who followed her direction. Once Hair and makeup were finished, all that was left was to wait for the recording to start. This time, the presentation was done in pairs. Marilyn was teamed with Vivian, and naturally, Ophelia was paired with


    Brock..


    The recording soon began, and the host walked onto the stage to thunderous apuse with a microphone. Due to the poprity of the earlier episodes, the audience was buzzing with excitement for tonight''s final.


    After a brief interaction with the audience, the host began introducing the judges. "Tonight''s panel features Matthew Kyte, president of the Fashion Design Association; Crissie Bower, editor-in-chief of VogueSphere; Enzo Tyrus, design professor at Denex University, and the renowned international fashion designer, David White. The four judges stood one by one. turning to acknowledge the audience behind them.


    The host continued, "And tonight, we have a special guest, general manager of Lewis Group, Miles Lewis. A big thanks to Mr. Lewis for his continued support and for making this visual spectacle possible."


    Miles buttoned his suit jacket, stood briefly to acknowledge the crowd, and then sat back down. Even with just a quick side profile, his striking looks andmanding presence had the women squealing with excitement.


    Wow, I had no idea the general manager of Lewis Group was this young and handsome," a woman eximed.


    "Right? He''s even better looking than most celebrities, another woman echoed.


    Miles remained expressionless at thepliments since he had been used to such praise.


    After the judges finished their introductions, therge screen yed clips of the contestants''s journeys from the very first episode. When Ophelia''s segment came on, showing her calm and confident demeanor, Miles unconsciously furrowed his. brow, feeling an inexplicable irritation. In his mind, Ophelia was doing all of this just to get his attention, and using such methods only disgusted him. "And now, who will take home the top prize tonight? Let''s find out together," the host announced enthusiastically.


    The music then swelled as Marilyn''s and Vivian''s models took the stage. Vivian''s design was an elegant off-the-shoulder white gown adorned with diamonds. It was graceful and regal, with the off-shoulder cut drawing the eye.


    Marilyn''s creation was a deep blue velvet gown, with high slits revealing the model''s long legs. The runway was long, and both models walked with elegance, showing off their gowns with poise. Under the lights, the gowns shimmered, looking absolutely stunning. "Wow, this is even more impressive than thest two rounds. I''d love to hear about your design inspiration. The host turned to the designers, who began exining their concepts and asionally interacted with their models


    The judges asked a few questions, but this was all rehearsed beforehand. After the judges gave their critiques, it was time for the audience to vote, though the results wouldn''t be revealed just yet.


    "And now, let''s see what the most anticipated duo has in store for us. Please give them a big round of apuse," said the host.


    ssical music began ying, and a spotlight shone in the center of the stage. Emily stepped out, dressed in a sleek ck mermaid-style gown.


    The gown featured a high cor and a white fringed shawl. The shoulders and waist were intricately embroidered with lily spiders in silver thread. Her hair was styled in an updo, giving her an understated elegance. 14.46


    MON, NI


    The crowd collectively gasped. This is breathtaking"


    "She looks like a high-societydy, a woman said with widened eyes,


    "That''s so ssy. How can someone look this stunning another one echoed.


    "No surprise it''s Brock''s design. This is a winning look for sure, someone said while pping


    As Emily finished her turn on the r

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    COMMENT Chapter


    40


    "Wha..." The audience stood up, amazement quickly shing across their faces, only to be reced by confusion and surprise.


    The four judges in the panel were just as baffled, ncing at each other before one asked, "What''s going on? How are these two contestants wearing the exact same outfit?"


    Another judge chimed in, "Did the production team mess up, or or is someone guilty of giarism?"


    In the design industry, giarism was the ultimate taboo. If someone wasbeled a giarist, their career in the industry. was as good as over.


    The host was equally stunned, Cameron hurriedly called for the recording to stop and walked onto the stage.


    Emily returned to the center of the stage, standing side by side with Sharon, the two of them looking like twins,


    Though Emily''s face showed surprise and confusion, deep down, she already knew the answer. Well, it looks like I made the right call showing up today. I never expected such an unexpected surprise, she thought. I knew it! There''s no way Ophelia''s talent is real. She''s only made it this far by stealing ideas!"


    The two designers then walked onto the stage. Brock, utterly shocked, turned to Ophelia with disbelief. "Miss Spencer, can you... Can you give me a reasonable exnation?"


    Since Brock''s work had been shown first, everyone automatically assumed Ophelia was the one guilty of giarism. Besides. their status in the industry was worlds apart, making it all too easy to draw that conclusion.


    As she looked at Brock''s stunned expression, she couldn''t help but sneer inwardly as she asked, "Mr. Decker, are you sure this is your design?" She kept calling him "Mr." with such respect, raising him onto a pedestal "Well, of course, Miss Spencer. I''ve always admired your work, but I never imagined... he sighed and shook his head in disappointment.


    As soon as they heard that, someone in the crowd eximed, "Wow. I used to be a big fan of the Poker Face Allies, but I had no idea the designer was such a disgrace! Stealing someone else''s design? Unbelievable!" Another added, "Yeah! And she didn''t even try to hide it. The designs are identical!"


    Yet another said, "Who knows, maybe all her previous work was copied too, and we just didn''t know it!


    "Judging by the way she acts, she''s definitely done this before!" another scoffed.


    Another person chimed in. "Didn''t someone online already dig up her designs and say they were suspiciously simr to La Reverie''s style? Maybe she''s been copying their work all along!"


    Sharon looked at Ophelia with deep concern. She trusted that Ophelia would never giarize, but hearing the crowd twist the truth with their gossip, she couldn''t help but worry about what kind of damage this would do to Ophelia


    Cameron hadn''t expected this turn of events. He cleared his throat and frowned before saying, "We''ll handle this backstage." After speaking, he nced at Brock, seeking his opinion.


    "I''m fine with whatever," Brock replied confidently, with an air of someone who had nothing to hide.


    At that moment, Miles slowly walked up from the VIP section, his gaze toward Ophelia filled with coldness and disdain. "Mr. Bishop, I think we should settle this here! Let the audience see the truth. Whoever''s guilty of giarism will be revealed once we check their original designs, right?"


    "Miss Spencer, I''ll give you one more chance. If you admit to the giarism and apologize to me right now, I won''t pursue


    the matter any further: I don''t want to ruin the future of someone as talented as you" Brock''s voice was full of apparent concern, which, in the audience''s eyes, made him seem even more noble.


    One person in the crowd shouted, "When Mr. Decker was designing dresses, she was still in diapers!"


    Another chimed in, "Exactly! Mr. Decker is a highly respected designer-giarism? What a joke!"


    Another scoffed, "Does someone this shameless even deserve a second chance?"


    Emily stood off to the side, thoroughly enjoying the spectacle, waiting to see how Ophelia would handle the situation.


    Ophelia, calm andposed, said, "Let''s go with Mr. Lewis'' suggestion and settle this right here, in front of everyone."


    To the crowd, it seemed like Ophelia was putting on a brave front. But they thought, of course, a giarist who already stole someone else''s work wouldn''t admit to it so easily.


    Seeing that she was still stubborn, Cameron had no choice but to address the audience. Just so everyone knows, to secure David as an international judge, the show had sent all the original design drafts to Mr. White himself three days before this."


    my office He continued. "At that time, there were indeed four different design sketches. The originals are currently locked in safe, and no one has touched them since. Since everyone here wants to know the truth, I will personally retrieve the designs along with the four judges." No one had any objections to this approach.


    About ten minutester, Cameron returned with the four judges and the safe. He then stood in front of everyone, entered the code, and pulled out the four original designs.


    He looked at Ophelia and seriously asked, "Ophelia, are you sure you want to go through with this?"


    "Open it," she replied without hesitation.


    Cameron sighed, thinking to himself that she had been given a chance, but she didn''t appreciate it.


    Each sealed bag had the name of the contestant written on it. Cameron directly pulled out the ones for Brock and Ophelia, saying, "Tm opening them now."


    Everyone''s eyes were glued to the sealed bags in Cameron''s hands. He opened Ophelia''s design first, taking out a sketch. As he turned the paper over, it revealed a yellow dress, which waspletely different from the one Sharon was wearing today. The moment the crowd saw the design, their gazes toward Ophelia instantly turned to mockery and scorn.


    One person in the crowd sneered, "She really won''t admit defeat until she''s backed into a corner. Let''s see what she has to


    say now!"Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "Stealing someone''s work-absolutely shamefull" someone else shouted.


    Emily sneered inwardly, ''It seems the heavens are helping me. I was just worrying about how to drag her name through the mud!''


    A sly glint shed in Brock''s eyes, though he wore a regretful expression as he said, "Miss Spencer, if you had used your own designs in thispetition, I believe you still could have done very well. Why try to cut corners and take shortcuts?"


    What else do you have to say for yourself?" Miles'' disgust toward Ophelia deepened..


    Hearing Miles speak, Cameron immediately dered, "Since it''s been proven that Ophelia is the giarist, on behalf of the show, I hereby revoke her participation righ-


    Just then, a person with a thick Thalorin ent interrupted Miles and Cameron from behind. "Wait a minute."


    It was David, the internationally renowned designer invited by the judging panel. His deep-set features and curly hair tied


    into a small ponytail behind his head made him stand out.


    He said, "Sorry. But would it be alright if I took another look at Mr. Decker''s design?"


    60%1


    Cameron clearly wasn''t pleased about being interrupted by this foreigner, but considering the hefty price they''d paid to invite David, he held his tongue. After noticing no objections from anyone else, Cameron nced at Brock for confirmation before handing over the design draft. David tore open the sealed envelope and pulled out the sketch. Instantly, everyone could see it was identical to the outfit worn by the two on stage, with "BC" signed in the bottom right corner.


    He remarked, "Mr. Decker, when I first saw this design, I was curious. Why did you choose such a muted ck?"


    Brock replied, "Because ck represents solemnity and stability, It''s also a symbol of nobility. Most people think red carpet outfits should be shy and eye-catching, but they overlook the mystery and intrigue ck can evoke." Many in the audience nodded, agreeing with his view. David then said, "But the ck you chose isn''t just

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    COMMENT


    Brock took a deep breath and, without realizing it, swallowed haril.


    David exined, "I''ve only seen a design like this at an internationalpetition many years ago. This sketch seems ck, but when it''s exposed to light, it turns white" Hearing that, everyone exchanged nces, wondering how this could be possible.


    David ced the sketch under the spotlight at the center of the age. After a few minutes, what had been a ck dress just moments ago instantly turned white.


    One of the onlookers gasped, "Whoa! How did they pull that of


    "It really changed color! Is this even possible?" another added.


    Yet another chimed in. "Let me see! Let me see!"


    At that moment, most of the crowd had their attention fixed on the seemingly ordinary sketch, and no one noticed the fine beads of sweat forming on Brock''s forehead. David asked, "Can you tell me how you achieved this?"


    Everyone turned to look at Brock with curious eyes. Seeing that he didn''t respond, someone couldn''t help but call out to him. Mr. Decker...


    Brock stammered. "Th-this is actually very simple. It''s the result of the reflective effect caused by the y of light and shadow, so-


    Ophelia, who had remained silent up until now, let out a sneer. That''s not the result of light refraction. It''s a special pigment called photochromic powder, which turns white in sunlight and strong light, but turns ck in darkness." "You''re talking nonsense!" Cameron scolded.


    David interjected, "Let her speak!"


    Ophelia continued, "The totem of the red spider lily on this sketch is ck and silver. Once it turns white, the pattern gradually turns dark red!"


    David examined the sketch, and sure enough, just as she had said, the red spider lily was slowly turning red, winding across the pure white surface with a striking, eerie visual impact.


    One of the onlookers eximed, "Wow! It''s true!"


    Another asked, "Wait... Isn''t this Mr. Decker''s design? How does she know all this?"


    Another muttered, "Could it be..."


    Someone then eximed, "No way! Are you saying Mr. Decker giarized her work?"


    Brock''s expression


    rkened as he strode forward and snatched the design sketch. "Stop trying to y games with me. You think I don''t know my own work? Where did you see or hear about my concept? You''re just saying it before I could, trying to make it look like 1-copied you. Look here. My signature BC is on this. That''s my name!"


    The crowd snapped out of their confusion, realizing that the design sketch did belong to Brock. They thought. "That''s true. Ophelia just said it first. It doesn''t really prove anything


    David rubbed his chin, studying Ophelia closely. She then curled her lips into a sly smile. "Are you sure it''s BC?"


    "What''s there to doubt Brock retorted confidently.


    Ophelia responded, "That''s not BC. It''s OS, a color-changing signature. Do you dare show it to everyone right now! Let them see if the signature is still RCT"


    Her tone was light, but every word hit Brock hard. His grip tighed on the sketch.


    Ophelia added, "If you still think this proves nothing, then let our two models stand under the lights. Let''s see if the outfit changes color. Mr. Decker, you wouldn''t have drawn one thing and made somethingpletely different, would you?"


    By this point, Sharon had already walked into the spotlight on the stage. Emily scoffed and strutted over, her head held high. thinking. Td like to see what other tricks Ophe has up her slee


    Inparison, Emily''s presence immediately diminished. Earlier, she gave off the vibe of amanding general''s wife, but now, standing next to Sharon, she looked more like someone on the sidelines, like a side chick or a mere afterthought. Even though they were the same height and wore simr makeup, Sharon''s elegancepletely outshone Emily''s


    Under the spotlight, Sharon''s dress shimmered, gradually turning into a pure, radiant white. The silver-white spider lily patterns began to morph into a striking red against the now-while fabric. Meanwhile, Emily''s dress showed no change at all. making her outfit seem dull and lifeless inparison. After witnessing this, the crowd fellpletely silent, now sure that Brock had copied the design.


    Sharon spoke. "This dress captures a breathtaking moment frozen in time, with its shifting emotions subtly fading amidst the chaos of the world. It holds onto the memory of sunlight, but without any trace of time. That''s the essence of my designer''s philosophy." David, who had been rubbing his chin in thought, suddenly snapped his fingers, pointing at Ophelia. "Wow! Now I remember you. You''re the winner from the Global Couture Design Competition, the one from Heloria!"


    Some in the crowd hadn''t heard of thepetition, so Enzo, a professor from the design department at Denex University, exined, "The Global Couture Design Competition is held every three years and is an internationally recognized event. Just being invited is a huge deal-let alone winning. It''s rare for Heloria to even have a handful of participants each year"


    In short, winning first ce in thatpetition was a legendary achievement, a moment of national pride, and brought international recognition.


    Enzo pondered for a moment before saying. "It seems like the person who won the Global Couture Design Competition three years ago was indeed from Heloria. Her entry was even bought by Yosk''s royal family at a high price, and I believe she also started a brand called... Oh, I remember now-La Reverie.


    Everyone was momentarily speechless, eyes widening in surprise. "What? Is that for real?" someone in the crowd finally blurted out.


    "It''s impossible! Absolutely impossible! You foreigners must have gotten it wrong!" Emily was the first to question.


    She thought, I don''t get all of this, but how the hell could Ophelia have done all that? What kind of joke is this? She''s just some nobody from the slums! How could she have won an international award and even be the founder of La Reverie? That''s ridiculous! I''d never believe it, not in a million years!


    David, clearly displeased by the doubt, responded, "Miss, there''s no way I''m mistaken! You can verify it easily with a quick search online. Back then, we were rivals, and I personally lost to her. How could I forget? That''s the only time in my life I''ve ever lost, and I epted it fully!"


    He raised an eyebrow and nced at Ophelia. Ophelia smiled calmly, and for a moment, the two exchanged a look from? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    across the room.


    Mon. Nov


    David sighed, thinking that she was still the same as before-untamed, carefree, and almost otherworldly.


    Cameron''s expression shifted slightly, too. There was no way Dayd would lie to cover for a young girl in a setting like this. Even if he were lying, it wouldn''t be a lie that could be so easily debunked. What he said had to be the truth. Then there was Brock, who had been standing there in stunned illence Cold


    sweat trickled down his forehead as realization dawned on him. He clenched his fists tightly and lowered his head, shaking it repeatedly. "How can this be? I was at thatpetition too. Howe I didn''t see her?"


    David shrugged helplessly. "If I remember correctly, you didn''t even make it into the top fifty, did you?" His words couldn''t have been a bigger p in the face.


    "So, you all are using Miss Spencer of giarizing Mr. Deckers designs? Can you tell me why she would even need to? Isn''t the truth obvious?" David spread his arms, gesturing toward the two models.


    By now, everyone had started to put the pieces together, and one of them eximed, "I found it! There''s only a photo of her from the side, but I can confirm-it''s exactly Ophelia on the stage!"

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    One of the crowd chimed in. "So, Ophelia was the one hiding her true abilities all along!"


    Another one added, "It''s like the student who camest in ss iming that the top student was copying from him! Makes no sense at all I can''t believe I was rooting for Brock this whole time, only to find out he''s the real cheater. What a disappointment!" "Disappointment doesn''t even begin to cover it someone else eximed. He''s so shameless. Just now, using Ophelia of copying him. I almost believed him!TM he was confidently


    Another voice chimed in. "This is insane! It''s disgusting, honestly. A person as shameless as him shouldn''t just be disqualified from thepetition. They need to dig into his past achievements and see if those were earned fairly!" Someone else agreed, "Exactly..."


    With a taunting smirk, Ophelia looked at Brock and asked, "So, Mr. Decker, do you have anything else to exin?"


    His shoulders rose and fell with tension, and the coldness in his eyes was a far cry from his usual friendly, boy-next-door appearance. "Do you really need to ruin me to feel satisfied?" he snarled through gritted teeth, his voice low and bitter. Ophelia''s lips curled slightly, and a sharp chill gleamed in her innocent-looking eyes. "Well, you reap what you sow," she remarked coolly.


    With unwavering determination, she thought, ''Brock, I''ll make sure you understand that even though you stole from mel and basked in fame and fortune, I can still bring you crashing down to the ground!


    "Mr. Bishop, how do you n to resolve this matter?" Ophelia directed her question to Cameron. "How did my original sketch end up with Brock''s name on it, sealed in his submission Doesn''t the production team owe me a reasonable exnation?" "Well..." Cameron hesitated, throwing a pleading look at Miles. This wasn''t his mess to clean up.


    Miles'' expression was stormy, barely concealing his frustration as he gave Brock a stern re. Turning to Ophelia, he said, "Miss Spencer, I''ll personally see to it that you''re properlypensated. You''ll get every bit of what the champion deserves. and if you have any other requests, don''t hesitate to ask..."


    As soon as Emily heard the words "don''t hesitate to ask", she immediately grew tense and shot a wary look at Ophelia.


    But Ophelia didn''t even spare Emily a nce, replying. "My request is simple. I want a public apology from both the production team and Brock. And I want the full story made clear on Twitter


    "That''s impossible!" Brock was the first to object, his eyes red with desperation. He knew that if he publicly apologized, his life would be over-his reputation, his des, everything would be gone. He couldn''t let that happen. He just couldn''t.


    Cameron''s face turned grim as well. "Ophelia, if this goes public the show will be ruined. All the hard work you and the other designers and models have put in will be for nothing


    *Fine. Then I''ll have mywyer proceed with legal action," Ophelia responded bluntly, unwilling to waste any more time.


    Cameron, who had been hoping to appeal to her emotions, was gunned by her indifference. Seeing no way out, he could only look to the person in charge for a decision


    Miles narrowed his eyes at Ophelia. "I know exactly what you''re after. Let''s settle this privately. He looked at her and thought, ''Isn''t she just doing this to get my attention! I''ve already said all this, and it''s still not enough?"


    "Settle it privately? Didn''t you personally say that you''d handle this publicly and give the audience an exnation, Mr. Lewis? Now you want to settle it behind closed doors?" Ophelia blinked her wide, innocent eyes. Could this p in the face


    havee any quickert


    Miles took a deep breath, lowering his voice. Just name your price."


    60%1


    He thought that if Ophelia wasn''t doing all this to get him to notice her, then it had to be for the money. He figured that if that were what she wanted, he''d just give it to her and be done with it.


    She calmly said, "I know you''re rich, Mr. Lewis. But you can''t just throw your money around and expect everything to go your way, right? Your chief designer at Fashion Ladies giarizel, and you haven''t even apologized. Now you want to pay me off? Is this how the great Lewis Group handles things?"


    Ophelia''s voice wasn''t loud, but it was clear enough for the nearby crowd and part of the audience to hear.


    "You..." Miles red at her with fury, wondering when she had started treating him with such tant disregard.


    Emily noticed the shift in his gaze toward Ophelia and immediately wanted to step in, but she slipped andnded face-first on the ground.


    One person in the crowd burst outughing, "Oops! The side chick is down! She fell t on her face. How embarrassing"


    "Emily!" Miles rushed to help Emily up. Her face flushed with embarrassment as she hurried off the stage, enduring the mockingnghter of the crowd.


    Inwardly, she grumbled, I only wanted to use this event to get same attention for my movie. Now I be the model for a giarist. How humiliating!


    Miles didn''t chase after Emily right away. Instead, he turned back and muttered under his breath, "300 thousand dors


    Sharon, who had been watching the whole scene unfold, couldn''t help but chuckle, "300 thousand dors? Since when did La Reverie dresses go for so cheap?" Brock clenched his fists tightly and red at Ophelia. "I know what you want! I can give it back to you. Can we just call this


    even?


    "Sure. Return it to me, and I won''t pursue this any further,'' she replied coolly. The director, overhearing her words, let out a sigh of relief.


    After leaving the TV station, Ophelia followed Brock to Fashion Ladies'' studio, where he mmed an old, yellowed sketchbook down on the table. "Ophelia, you really yed dirty!


    She picked up the sketchbook and flipped through it. Inside were her grandmother''s delicate handwriting and sketches of dress designs, along with her own childhood drawings of arms, legs, faces, and hairstyles added to each dress. This wasn''t just a simple sketchbook. It held memories of her and her grandmother.


    From the moment Ophelia saw Brock, she had been slowly setting this trap, all for the sake of getting this sketchbook back.


    As she left Fashion Ladies, she ran into Marilyn at the entrance of the building.


    "Miss Spencer!" Marilyn eximed. Ever since she found out Ophelia was the founder of La Reverie, her eyes sparkled every time she saw her.


    Ophelia always found it both amusing and frustrating when she was addressed as Miss Spencer. "Are you headed to Fashion Ladies?"


    Marilyn sighed and nodded, "Mr. Decker had asked me to be his assistant, but after what happened, I don''t want anymore... I''m afraid that..."


    She was afraid that he might steal her designs. But she didn''t say that out loud. After all, she was just a feer, and her work wasn''t worth much. Such worries seemed trivial in front of these industry giants.


    MON, NO


    Ophelia nodded thoughtfully. "I get it. Would you be interested joining La Reverie?"


    ¦°


    "Huh? W-what?" Marilyn''s wide eyes stared up in shock, her cute, loll-like face filled with disbelief. She thought she had to be hearing things-there was no way something this amazing could be real, not even in her dreams. Ophelia repeated. Tm in need of a designer.


    Marilyn felt dizzy at this point, thinking. ''Did 1 hear that right? Not an assistant, but a designer? Oh my world!


    Then, Ophelia watched as Marilyn pinched her own arm hard, wincing as the pain shot through her. It was enough to confirm that this wasn''t a dream.


    "I would love to! I''d absolutely love to!" Marilyn said excitedly, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Ophelia.


    "Great. I''ll send you an address. Come by when you have time to report in," Ophelia said, opening WhatsApp. Just as she was about to send Marilyn the address, a video call notification popped up. Her hand slipped, and she identally h

 Jilted Bride 43

    As soon as Ophelia realized it was Keh''s video call she had hung up on, she immediately sensed that trouble was Irwing.


    Marilyn rarely saw any other expression on Ophelia''s face. Seeing her so visibly anxious piqued Marilyn''s curiosity, though


    After quickly sending the address, Ophelia gave Marilyn an awkward smile, and left. As soon as Ophelia turned around, she immediately called back.


    However, it barely rang once before it was hung up, without any hesitation, as if he were throwing a tantrum.


    Ophelia''s heart sank with dread as she wondered, ''Is he mad at me? But I didn''t mean to hang up on him!!


    She puffed up her checks and quickly sent a text to exin things to Keh, but there was still no reply.


    Ophelia felt her stomach tighten as she remembered that she had promised Keh that no matter what she was doing, the would have to answer his calls or video calls. Otherwise, she''d have to deal with the consequences. She tried calling again, but this time, the phone rang for a long while with no answer. "Fine: she thought. I just wait until


    he cools off then"


    Even though Ophelia hadn''t pursued the giarism issue, someone in the audience that day had secretly recorded the whole incident and posted it online. When the video spread, actizens were outraged, flooding thements section.


    Oneizenmented: [giarism with such arrogance? They''re acting like they have every right to giarize!]


    Another wrote: [That''s not even the worst part-the shamelessness of trying to me the victim!


    Yet, anothermented: [I used to really like Fashion Ladies, but now I wonder how those designs came about in the first ce!]


    And another posted: [Lewis Group behind Fashion Ladies is just as bad as their designer. Instead of apologizing after being exposed, they tried to bribe people! ssic underhanded tactics!


    With that, the trending hashtags instantly multiplied, including Boycott Fashion Ladies, Fashion Ladies Designer Apology, "La Reverie''s Founder", "Sharon Looks Stunning". "Ona Snowy Day'' Premiere Sold Out", and "Emily''s Side Chick Look Is a Disaster". In just one afternoon, Lewis Group''s stock prices plummeted even before the market closed.


    As the online bacsh continued to escte, Miles had no choice but to make Brock apologize. Without an apology, not only would Fashion Ladies bepletely boycotted, but Brock himself would be cklisted from the entire design industry. "Damn it!" Brock mmed his fist onto the desk, his hair disheveled, no longer looking like his usual refined self.


    He thought bitterly, ''I already gave the sketchbook back to Ophelia, and now I have to apologize too? This is aplete loss on all fronts!''


    "Ah!" Brock flew into a rage, sweeping everything off the table and onto the floor, tearing the clothes off the stic mannequin like a madman. But no matter how much he vented, he still had to apologize in the end.


    As soon as the apology video was posted, he was immediately dragged through the mud on social media, and countless people began exposing his true character.From N?velDrama.Org.


    14:46 Mon, Nov 11. Chapter 43


    When the show''s producers saw the hacsh, they quickly came forward to exin, shifting most of the me onto Brock. They also apologized to Ophelia and promised to get to the bottom of things and give her a proper exnation.


    Inside a private room at a fine dining restaurant, Sharon held her phone and angrily said, "Imph! Easy for them to say! Those old foxes were all over Mr, Decker, kissing up to him just the other day. I can''t stand these people in the entertainment industry who only praise the powerful and kick the weak. And look at them now-they''re the ones apologizing."


    Ophelia smiled nonchntly, not interested in the situation at all, her eyes fixed on her WhatsApp messages. She wondered, "All I did was hang up on him, but is that really a reason for him to still be mad and not respond?


    She turned off her screen, took a deep breath, and shifted her gaze to Sharon. "Let''s get back to discussing our coboration, shall we?"


    Sharon looked up in confusion, their eyes meeting. Coboration?"


    Ophelia nodded. "Yes. I''d like to invite you to be the brand model for La Reverie. Right now, I can offer you three million dors for a two-year contract." Most of her funds were tied up with Chloe for other ventures, so that was all she could offer for now. Upon hearing that, Sharon raised her eyebrows, her eyes widening in surprise, thinking. The brand model for La Reverie? That''s the kind of endorsement every actress is dying to get. And she''s offering it to me? Thest thing I endorsed was a snackmercial. This is a huge leap, isn''t it?"


    Sharon took a shallow breath before asking. "Are you really asking me to endorse your brand? I''m not even a third-tier celebrity right now. Just working with you is more than I ever dreamed of. Bing the face of La Reverie? I never even dared to imagine it!" Ophelia pped a contract down in front of her. "Well, can you imagine it now?" She had prepared this contract in advance as she thought that no one was more suited to wear her designs than Sharon


    "I''d better take action now. Otherwise, once your movie is out and gets more attention, I won''t be able to afford your endorsement fees with what I have," Ophelia said.


    Sharon chuckled softly, though she suddenly felt like there were tears in her eyes. "You believe in me more than my own mom does. As long as you don''t mind, I''m willing to be your spokesperson for life, free of charge. But I still need to make money, you know." With that, she grabbed a pen and crossed out the word "million" on the amount.


    Ophelia raised her eyebrows. "Are you kidding me? Two years for 300 dors? You can''t sell yourself that short."


    Sharon casually signed her name with a dramatic flourish. "It''s settled. I''ve already signed it."


    Ophelia didn''t rush to take the contract back. She didn''t like taking advantage of others and always made sure things were clear with everyone she worked with.


    She added, "Since you don''t want an endorsement fee, how aboutd help you set up your own studio? Instead of signing with another entertainmentpany, at your age, it''s about time you start your own business


    Sharon clutched her chest dramatically, pretending to be hurt. That''s a bit harsh, don''t you


    think?"


    At the same time, though, she admired this twenty-year-old girl standing in front of her. So young, yet so decisive and efficient. Everything Ophelia said seemed convincing as if it would all happen just the way she said it.


    After dinner, the two left the restaurant together. At the street corner, Ophelia sensed someone was following her. After making sure Sharon got into her car, Ophelia walked in the opposite direction. When she confirmed that the person behind her was targeting her, she final Chapter 43


    As soon as Ophelia realized it was Keh''s video call she had hung up on, she immediately sensed that trouble was Irwing.


    Marilyn rarely saw any other expression on Ophelia''s face. Seeing her so visibly anxious piqued Marilyn''s curiosity, though


    After quickly sending the address, Ophelia gave Marilyn an awkward smile, and left. As soon as Ophelia turned around, she immediately called back.


    However, it barely rang once before it was hung up, without any hesitation, as if he were throwing a tantrum.


    Ophelia''s heart sank with dread as she wondered, ''Is he mad at me? But I didn''t mean to hang up on him!!


    She puffed up her checks and quickly sent a text to exin things to Keh, but there was still no reply.


    Ophelia felt her stomach tighten as she remembered that she had promised Keh that no matter what she was doing, the would have to answer his calls or video calls. Otherwise, she''d have to deal with the consequences.


    She tried calling again, but this time, the phone rang for a long while with no answer. "Fine: she thought. I just wait until


    he cools off then"


    Even though Ophelia hadn''t pursued the giarism issue, someone in the audience that day had secretly recorded the whole incident and posted it online. When the video spread, actizens were outraged, flooding thements section. Oneizenmented: [giarism with such arrogance? They''re acting like they have every right to giarize!]


    Another wrote: [That''s not even the worst part-the shamelessness of trying to me the victim!


    Yet, anothermented: [I used to really like Fashion Ladies, but now I wonder how those designs came about in the first ce!]


    And another posted: [Lewis Group behind Fashion Ladies is just as bad as their designer. Instead of apologizing after being exposed, they tried to bribe people! ssic underhanded tactics!


    With that, the trending hashtags instantly multiplied, including Boycott Fashion Ladies, Fashion Ladies Designer Apology, "La Reverie''s Founder", "Sharon Looks Stunning". "Ona Snowy Day'' Premiere Sold Out", and "Emily''s Side Chick Look Is a Disaster". In just one afternoon, Lewis Group''s stock prices plummeted even before the market closed.


    As the online bacsh continued to escte, Miles had no choice but to make Brock apologize. Without an apology, not only would Fashion Ladies bepletely boycotted, but Brock himself would be cklisted from the entire design industry. "Damn it!" Brock mmed his fist onto the desk, his hair disheveled, no longer looking like his usual refined self.


    He thought bitterly, ''I already gave the sketchbook back to Ophelia, and now I have to apologize too? This is aplete loss on all fronts!''


    "Ah!" Brock flew into a rage, sweeping everything off the table and onto the floor, tearing the clothes off the stic mannequin like a madman. But no matter how much he vented, he still had to apologize in the end.


    As soon as the apology video was posted, he was immediately dragged through the mud on social media, and countless people began exposing his true character.


    When the show''s producers saw the hacsh, they quickly came forward to exin, shifting most of the me onto Brock. They also apologized to Ophelia and promised to get to the bottom of things and give her a proper exnation.


    Inside a private room at a fine dining restaurant, Sharon held her phone and angrily said, "Imph! Easy for them to say! Those old foxes were all over Mr, Decker, kissing up to him just the other day. I can''t stand these people in the entertainment industry who only praise the powerful and kick the weak. And look at them now-they''re the ones apologizing."


    Ophelia smiled nonchntly, not interested in the situation at all, her eyes fixed on her WhatsApp messages. She wondered, "All I did was hang up on him, but is that really a reason for him to still be mad and not respond?


    She turned off her screen, took a deep breath, and shifted her gaze to Sharon. "Let''s get back to discussing our coboration, shall we?"


    Sharon looked up in confusion, their eyes meeting. Coboration?"


    Ophelia nodded. "Yes. I''d like to invite you to be the brand model for La Reverie. Right now, I can offer you three million dors for a two-year contract." Most of her funds were tied up with Chloe for other ventures, so that was all she could offer for now.


    Upon hearing that, Sharon raised her eyebrows, her eyes widening in surprise, thinking. The brand model for La Reverie? That''s the kind of endorsement every actress is dying to get. And she''s offering it to me? Thest thing I endorsed was a snackmercial. This is a huge leap, isn''t it?"


    Sharon took a shallow breath before asking. "Are you really asking me to endorse your brand? I''m not even a third-tier celebrity right now. Just working with you is more than I ever dreamed of. Bing the face of La Reverie? I never even dared to imagine it!" Ophelia pped a contract down in front of her. "Well, can you imagine it now?" She had prepared this contract in advance as she thought that no one was more suited to wear her designs than Sharon


    "I''d better take action now. Otherwise, once your movie is out and gets more attention, I won''t be able to afford your endorsement fees with what I have," Ophelia said.


    Sharon chuckled softly, though she suddenly felt like there were tears in her eyes. "You believe in me more than my own mom does. As long as you don''t mind, I''m willing to be your spokesperson for life, free of charge. But I still need to make money, you know." With that, she grabbed a pen and crossed out the word "million" on the amount.


    Ophelia raised her eyebrows. "Are you kidding me? Two years for 300 dors? You can''t sell yourself that short."


    Sharon casually signed her name with a dramatic flourish. "It''s settled. I''ve already signed it."


    Ophelia didn''t rush to take the contract back. She didn''t like taking advantage of others and always made sure things were clear with everyone she worked with.


    She added, "Since you don''t want an endorsement fee, how aboutd help you set up your own studio? Instead of signing with another entertainmentpany, at your age, it''s about time you start your own business


    Sharon clutched her chest dramatically, pretending to be hurt. That''s a bit harsh, don''t you


    think?"


    At the same time, though, she admired this twenty-year-old girl standing in front of her. So young, yet so decisive and efficient. Everything Ophelia said seemed convincing as if it would all happen just the way she said it.


    After dinner, the two left the restaurant together. At the street corner, Ophelia sensed someone was following her. After making sure Sharon got into her car, Ophelia walked in the opposite direction. When she confirmed that the person behind her was targeting her, she finally rxed a little.


    Ophelia strolled aimlessly down the street and eventually found herself on a secluded road. There were many trees there. and the wind rustled the leaves gently


    Suddenly, the footsteps behind her got closer. Just as the person behind her reached out to grab her, she swiftly raised her


    am to block


    Then, with a ng, a cold, gleaming knife hit the ground.


    Upon realizing that someone was after her life, Ophelia frowned as she quickly kicked the knife away and turned to engage in closebat.


    The person wore a mask with a tall figure and a low ponytail. Strands of hair near their forehead fluttered asionally during the fight.


    The man''s attacks were lethal-clearly, he wasn''t just an ordinary person. Ophelia kicked him, and he punched her in return, Hack and forth, they both slowly begin to wear out. Ophelia was agile, but when she caught one of his kicks with both hands, the force threw her several feet back. At the same time, though, she managed to tear off his mask. As soon as she saw who the guy was, she sneered, "Just as I thought!"


    ly rxed a little.


    Ophelia strolled aimlessly down the street and eventually found herself on a secluded road. There were many trees there. and the wind rustled the leaves gently Suddenly, the footsteps behind her got closer. Just as the person behind her reached out to grab her, she swiftly raised her


    am to block


    Then, with a ng, a cold, gleaming knife hit the ground.


    Upon realizing that someone was after her life, Ophelia frowned as she quickly kicked the knife away and turned to engage in closebat.


    The person wore a mask with a tall figure and a low ponytail. Strands of hair near their forehead fluttered asionally during the fight.


    The man''s attacks were lethal-clearly, he wasn''t just an ordinary person. Ophelia kicked him, and he punched her in return, Hack and forth, they both slowly begin to wear out. Ophelia was agile, but when she caught one of his kicks with both hands, the force threw her several feet back. At the same time, though, she managed to tear off his mask. As soon as she saw who the guy was, she sneered, "Just as I thought!"

 Jilted Bride 44

    Chapter 44 60%


    Ophelia steadied her breathing and tossed the ck cloth strip over to the man in front of her.


    The man caught the strip and toyed with it in his hands, his attractive eyes watching her like a loyal dog. "Long time no see, Elia. Looks like your skills have improved, he smiled, revealing pair of small canine teeth, his voice bright and cheerful.


    "Yeah. It''s been a while, What? The first thing you do when we meet is try to kill me? You''ve been following me for days. Aren''t you tired yet?" Ophelia dusted off her clothes and picked up the dagger on the ground.


    The man leaned against the tree trunk by the road, wrapping the ck cloth around his palm before tying it off with his teeth. I took a job. Someone paid me to mess you up. The money was pretty good, and since it was you, I figured I''d take it. You should be thanking me. If it were anyone else, you''d be dead by now."


    Ophelia let out a sneer and tossed the dagger back to him-Eric Martinez. He''d been tailing her for days, so she quickly deduced that Brock wouldn''t have suddenly hired a hitman. It wasn''t hard to guess who wanted her dead.


    She pondered, Looks like the hospital bed isn''t enough for him anymore. One more time, and I''ll send him straight to the


    morgue.


    Ophelia asked, "You''re still doing this kind of work?"


    Eric tucked the dagger back into his belt and replied innocently Tve got no other skills. What else am I supposed to do?" The streemp cast a glow over his youthful face, highlighting a faint scar on his brow. Ophelia sighed helplessly. She and Eric bad grown up together in the slums. All thebat skills she had now, she''d learned from him.


    He''d been forced to follow his adoptive father into a life of violence since he was ten, living a dangerous life where death lurked around every corner, While other kids his age were in school, he could barely recognize a handful of letters. When they were younger, Eric had taught Ophelia how to fight while she taught him how to read. Every time his adoptive father caught them, Eric would get beaten. The scar on his brow was from a bottle his father had smashed over his head. "If you wanted, you could live a different life" Ophelia probed gently.


    s eyes.


    "I don''t want to," Eric replied as he smiled like a child. But if you looked closely, there was a bitterness in his c


    Ophelia checked the time. Earlier, she''d purposely shaken off Keh''s men, and by now, they''d likely be closing in.


    She added, "You''ve been following me these past few days, so you should know I''m with Chloe now. If you ever want to change your life, you can find me anytime."


    Eric shed his small canines again and gave her shoulder a yful squeeze. "Elia, your shoulders aren''t that broad. Don''t carry everything on your own. There are too many people in the slums. You can''t save them all.


    She lowered her gaze and mused, ''He''s right. I''m no savior.


    "Be careful," Ophelia said. But when she looked up again, Eric had already disappeared from where he had been leaning against the tree.


    The following day was Valentine''s Day, and it conveniently fell on a weekend. Sharon''s movie, On a Snowy Day, officially hit the theaters. By noon, the box office had already surpassed 10 million dors.


    On the other hand, Emily''s teen flick, Sprout, was quickly torn apart online not long after the first screening.


    Mon, Nov


    As viewers saw the male lead, Rex, with a constant scowl and zeer acting skills, and the female lead portrayed as an airhead, naive and clueless, fans who hade specifically for Rex were ft deeply disappointed. Not a single cent of Sungate Entertainment''s hefty promotional budget had paid off.


    By B PM, On a Snowy Day had grossed over 27 million dors, and it was projected to reach 30 million dors by the end of the night.


    When Ophelia got Sharon''s call, she had just finished dinner with Chloe and Wyatt, courtesy of Lisa.


    "You got any ns tonight?" Sharon asked.


    Ophelia replied, "Why?"


    Sharon said, "The movie''s doing great. James is gathering some people from the industry for a small get-together. I want you toe with me."


    Sharon''s voice was so loud that everyone nearby could hear her Ophelia then noticed Lisa''s eyes light up at the mention of James.


    Ophelia thought, ''Oh... I almost forgot. James is a total heartthrob for the olderdies.


    She then asked, "Where''s it at?"


    "I''ll send you the address in a bit," Sharon replied


    After hanging up, Lisa scooted closer, asking. "Miss Spencer, are you going to see James?"


    "Yeah. So do you want me to pass along a message or something? Ophelia had never been a fangirl, so she couldn''t quite grasp the whole celebrity obsession thing.


    "That''s not necessary." Lisa looked like she wanted to say more but held back. "I just wanted to ask if you could snap a picture for me. I want to see if he''s as handsome in real life as he is on TV Her eyes sparkled with girlish excitement as she spoke.


    102


    After a brief hesitation, Ophelia let out a quiet sigh as if resigned to the situation. She responded, "Uh... Sure. I guess." Half an hourter, Ophelia arrived at the entrance of Skyline Lounge, where a decent crowd had already gathered. "Over here, Elia!" Sharon was wearing a mask and a pair of oversized ck-framed sses.


    The bar had a squareyout. The first floor was an open seating area with a dance floor, while the second floor had several private ss rooms that offered a clear view of the space below.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Sharon waved toward one of the rooms upstairs, then led Ophelia up and into one of the private booths,


    Once inside, Sharon said to everyone, "This is my friend, Ophelia Sinir."


    A huge chunk of the film''s box office sess could be credited to Sharon, so when everyone heard that Ophelia was Sharon''s friend, they immediately stood up to greet Ophelia.


    "Hello, I''m James Guinnes." The man sitting in the middle was the first to stand up He looked to be in his forties, dressed in a casual beige outfit and was a bit slimmer than he appeared on V Another man followed suit. "I''m Thomas Collins


    Then, another chimed in Tm the producer, Riley Carson


    Ophelia smiled faintly, nodding at each of them in greeting.


    "Wait. Are you Sharon''s designer?" Riley asked, his expression showing that he found her somewhat familiar.


    Everyone in the room turned their attention to Ophelia. They were curious about the founder of La Reverie-it was surprising to them that she was so young.


    "So you''re the one behind Sharon''s sess? I really owe you a huge thank you." Thomas immediately picked up his ss and respectfully raised it toward Ophelia.


    Everyone there knew about what had happened with Sharon recently. At that time, she was on the verge of being cklisted, and it was almost sure that her movie would flop.


    But, to their surprise, not only had she turned things around, the movie had gained a lot of buzz. It turned out there had been a mastermind behind it all, guiding her from the shadows,


    After learning who Ophelia was, the people in the room became even more enthusiastic than before. They naturally included her in the conversation, asionally asking for her opinion.


    James was both an artist and director at Silverline Media, and he also owned his own studio. This movie was his debut as a self-invested, self-directed, and self-acted project. From the looks of it, his first step into directing was a sess. When Ophelia heard that James was nning to invest in and direct another project soon, she recalled that in her previous life, after Emily''s movie became a huge hit, it was through James that she made even bigger strides in her career. But this time, Ophelia wasn''t worried about Emily having that same opportunity. Instead, Ophelia thought that she could use James to bring down Sungate Entertainment.


    Ophelia reflected. ''If I''m not mistaken, that seven million dors Emily used to pay for the dress was likelypany funds, meaning Sungate Entertainment now has a financial gap. With the movie''s poor box office performance, what will Emily and Nathan

 Jilted Bride 45

    COMMENT


    Taking advantage of the moment when James wasn''t talking to anyone, Ophelia scooted over a little and asked, "Mr. Guinnes, could I take a picture with you? My family really likes you. He chuckled, "Sure. No problem"


    James straightened his back, and Ophelia snapped a photo before nodding politely at him.


    He gave Ophelia a once-over and casually asked, "You look pretty young. Are you twenty yet?"


    She almost blurted out that she was twenty-five years old but quickly stopped herself. Instead, she replied, "Um... Yeah."


    "Ah. That''s a great age. Being young is nice. Do you have a boyfriend?" James asked in a tone that felt like he was an older family member, making Ophelia feelfortable rather than annoyed. 50, she said, I''m already married?


    James raised his eyebrows in surprise, his eyes widening. "Married so young? That''s pretty rare.


    Ophelia chackled, "Not really. It''s just that people in your industry tend to marryte." She knew that someone like James, who was used to the ttery of the entertainment world, preferred people who spoke bluntly. Clearly, James found the girl in front of him even more likable. Heughed, "That''s true. But you''re so aplished at such a young age. Your husband must be quite something, right?" "Absolutely!" Ophelia smiled.


    She thought, ''Of course. I haven''t met anyone better than Keh yet. But that man, replied to my messages. Who knows what he''s up to?"


    off in some other country, still hasn''t


    "Elia, let''s go downstairs and have some fun." Sharon, who''d had a few drinks and was unusually cheerful, grabbed Ophelia''s arm and pulled her downstairs.


    The music downstairs was deafening, and the atmosphere was far livelier than upstairs. In the middle of the dance floor, handsome men and beautiful women were swaying and moving to the beat.


    Sharon held both of Ophelia''s hands and rhythmically taught her how to dance. "You should loosen up at your age. Stop being so uptight all the time. C''mon."


    Sharon shook her head, mouth wide open, wildly dancing to the music, her sses nearly flying off her face.


    Gradually. Ophelia realized that she could really let loose here. She had never allowed herself this kind of freedom before.


    Maybe it was the alcohol, or perhaps it was thinking about how unfair her past life had been, but she suddenly felt like Sharon was right.


    After all, she had been given a second chance at life, changed her circumstances, built a career she was passionate about, and found the love she wanted. Ophelia realized that she needed to start living more freely. With the DJ''s shout, red confetti rained down, and the energy on the dance floor hit its peak.


    "Mmm." A radiant smile spread across Ophelia''s face. She had a beautiful smile, one that was truly contagious. Her already innocent face seemed toe alive, and it felt as if everything in the world had been brought back to life by her joy.


    In one of the ss-walled rooms on the second floor, a man narrowed his menacing eyes, and the corners lifted slightly, his expression dark and brooding. The air around him seemed to freeze, and the bodyguards behind him didn''t dare make at sound


    60%1


    He grumbled inwardly, Great. I''m just gone for a bit, and you''ve been living quite the life!


    Ophelia danced around for a while, feeling the effects of the exercise, though the pounding music was starting to give her a headache.


    "Tim going to the restroom!" she shouted to Sharon. Still lost in the music, Sharon simply gave her an OK hand sign.


    Afterward, Ophelia squeezed through the crowd and made her way to the rtively quiet bathroom. The lighting was dim as she stood at the sink and washed her hands. The cool water flowed through her fingers, bringing a refreshing chill. Suddenly, she sensed a shadow looming behind her. Turning around quickly, she found herself pinned against the marble counter. In an instant, a familiar scent surrounded Ophelia. The man''s arms trapped her between the sink and his chest. "Having fun, huh?" His deep voice cut through the music, sounding dangerously close in her ear.


    Ophelia opened her mouth in surprise. Beneath the ck baseball cap was a face so strikingly handsome that it was almost unfair. A delighted smile tugged at her lips-utterly different from before. This time, her smile was more genuine, as if she had opened her heart. But Keh''s eyes shed with coldness as he leaned in slightly, I rushed back to spend Valentine''s Day with you, and here you are, messing around. Hah... Well done. Even if Ophelia were clueless, she could tell he was mad.


    Without missing a beat, Ophelia wrapped her arms around his neck and said, "I love this surprise."


    Keh lifted her onto the counter and kissed her lips, biting down yfully.


    Did you miss me?" he murmured against Ophelia''s lips.


    "I did. Can you not be away for so long next time? Or, if you have to be, can you take me with you?" she asked, her hand gently stroking the sharp lines of Keh''s face.


    Ophelia had been like a spinning top these past few days, constantly on the move, avoiding Rosewood Manor, and never slowing down, all because she missed Keh.


    At first, her feelings for Keh had been mixed with guilt from her previous life. But now, hepletely filled her heart, Without him around, even her ns for revenge seemed meaningless.


    Keh seemed very pleased with Ophelia''s response and couldn''t help but kiss her more passionately, as though he wanted to devour her.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    But this was still a public ce, and Ophelia was starting to feel overwhelmed. She couldn''t shake the feeling that a lot of eyes were on them


    "Sharon, your friend here is really open. Thomasmented before clearing his throat awkwardly, realizing he hadn''t noticed it earlier when they were in the private room.


    Sharon adjusted her sses. To be honest, she was just as surprised as Thomas. She''d never seen this side of Ophelia before. Who knew that beneath her cold and serious exterior, she was this passionate? "Uh... Well, she''s young after all, Sharon replied.


    Ophelia''s lips were tingling from the kiss. She pushed Keh away and jumped off the sink. The moment she opened her eyes, she was met with Sharon''s shocked expression.


    Sharon chuckled nervously. "Oh, it''s fine, really. You''re young... get it


    ""Exactly, exactly! Sharon was just like this whe


    chill run down his neck.


    she was younger Thomas added, though the moment he finished, he felt a


    <60% a


    Ophelia, on the other hand, wanted to disappear into a hole. Keh had his arm wrapped around her waist, his face mostly hidden under the brim of his cap, with only his nose and mouth visible.


    Even with just that, though, Sharon and the others could still see that the man in front of them had striking features and dominant temperament.


    Ophelia cleared her throat before saying. "This is my boyfriend Don''t get the wrong idea. He''s just here to take me home


    As she spoke, she tried her best to steady her breathing, thinking that it wasn''t the first time she''d been caught like this. She should have been used to it. After all, whenever Keh was nearby, her aloof image always crumbled.


    "Oh, I see! If I''d known you had a boyfriend, I wouldn''t have dragged you out with me. You should be spending Valentine''s Day with him," Sharon teased, covering her mouth as sheughed. She tilted her head, trying to get a better look at the face hidden under Keh''s §ã§Ñ§â.


    "Uh-huh. Well, we''ll get going then. Ophelia quickly grabbed Keh''s hand and hurried out of the bar, almost as if she were protecting some kind of treasure.


    As they left, their backs looked even more perfectly matched than any couple in a romantic drama.


    Thomas couldn''t help but joke, "Sharon, you don''t think you want to start dating again, do you?"


    Sharon sighed. "And what if I do? I''m already thirty, and I still don''t have a boyfriend. Isn''t it about time I started worrying?"


    "Well, what about me?" Thomas teased.


    Sharon smacked her lips thoughtfully, replying. "If we got together, your fans would rip me apart. I''m not about to let the, whole intee after me." Hearing that, Thomas smiled wryly, the corners of his mouth tugging up in self-mockery.

 Jilted Bride 46

    14:47 Mon, Nov 11 Chapter


    46


    Ophelia hadn''t been back to Rosewood Manor for a while. Ever since Keh went on his business trip, she''d only returned nice, and both times, she left in a hurry. She hadn''t even noticed that a whole amusement park had sprung up in the empty lot. The lights gradually came on, and everything started up at once.


    The tallest and biggest Ferris wheel glowed with a warm yellow fight. The two of them stood next to the double-decker carousel, listening to the crisp, dreamy sounds that resembled a music box. Even though Ophelia had known for a while that Keh was going to give her an armusement park, actually seeing the extravagant gift touched her heart.


    Like a child, she rode the carousel over and over. Every time she passed Keh at the starting point, she''d wave at him with a big smile, her long hair blowing in the wind, herughter Carefree like a child''s. Theyter rode the Ferris wheel together, and when they reached the top, they looked down at the stunning night view of Denex.


    When they got back to the vi, it was already past midnight, but Keh''s Valentine''s Day gift didn''t end there.


    Upon seeing the stack of property deeds piled up like a deck of cards in front of her, Ophelia almost choked on her own spit. She opened a few-each one was property developed by Sinir Group, ranging from several thousand square feet to several ten of thousands of square feet, all in her name..


    There was also a printed document for Yee Cake, listing Ophelia as the legal owner of 5,200 stores worldwide.


    She was utterly speechless. "What..."


    Ophelia''s throat tightened as she thought, ''Isn''t this a bit too much? These gifts are insanel


    When Keh didn''t see the reaction he was expecting on her face, his expression darkened, thinking, ''Could Mark have been right? Do women just prefer bags and jewelry? I didn''t have time to get those today, but I''ll make sure to get them for her tomorrow." He asked, "You don''t like it?"


    "I love the amusement park more, but since you''re giving this to me, I''ll dly ept it." Ophelia wrapped her arms around. Keh''s neck, stood on her tiptoes, and gave him a peck on the lips. "Keh, being your wife is already enough for me. You don''t need to be so extravagant."


    Upon hearing the word ''extravagant, Keh raised an eyebrow, lowered his head, and leaned closer to her lips, almost kissing her as he murmured, "The more you spend, the less I''ll spend. I like it when my woman is extravagant. Didn''t I tell you, once I got back, you can''t use the ''my back hurts'' excuse anymore?"


    The faint scent of alcohol lingered in the air as the light cast a glow over him. His ck shirt was unbuttoned at the cor, exposing a few buttons undone.


    Ophelia suddenly noticed a new tattoo beneath Keh''s corbone, near his heart, a series of letters. Her smooth, delicate fingers traced over it gently. The tattoo was still healing, and it was her name.


    Keh used to have a tattoo of his mother''s name in that spot, and now he had added Ophelia''s. Just as Ophelia was about to look up and say something, her lips were captured by his kiss


    It was nearly 2 AM when they were done. Opheliay in the crook of his arm, her fingers lightly brushing over the letters of his tattoo, and murmured. "Kenny, I want to get a tattoo of your name too." When Keh heard her call him "Kenny", his gaze deepened, but he didn''t say a word


    He gently caressed Ophelia''s smooth and delicate cheek, and after a long pause, his voice, hoarse and enticing, whispered in her ear. "My angel, I''ve given you enough space to grow, and I''ve respected your career. I don''t know if I''m right or wrong in Chapter 46


    doing so, but if you ever dare to fly away, I''ll personally clip your wings.


    She wondered why he was so afraid of her leaving-this time, she would never leave him.


    Ophelia softly kissed Keh''s tattoo, and his chest rose suddenly, his breath bing ragged as he said, "If you don''t want to sleep, just say it."


    The following morning. Ophelia slept in until the sun was high in the sky. Just as she reached for her phone on the nightstand to check the time, she couldn''t find it.


    "What are you looking for?" Keh''szy voire came from the window. He was leaning against the couch, propping his head up with one hand while toying with her phone in the other


    Ophelia sat up, yawning, feeling as if her back had snapped in two. She then slumped against the headboard, not wanting to move. "What time is it?"Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    "10:48, Keh replied casually before changing his tone. "Ophelia, you''ve got pictures of another man on your phone. Where did you get the guts, huh?"


    Ophelia was left speechless, thinking that his habit of snooping through her phone was really bad.


    Keh then got up from the couch and threw her phone right out the window.


    Seeing that, Ophelia quickly protested. "Hey... Why don''t you let me exin?"


    "Exin? I''m listening. If you don''t have a good reason today. I guarantee you won''t be getting out of bed. In fact, you''ll be locked in bed from now on. Keh frowned.


    "That''s Lisa''s favorite actor. She asked me to take a picture, to see... Ophelia swallowed nervously. "To see if he''s as handsome in real life as he is on TV.


    "Hah. Do you think I''m a three-year-old? So tell me, who''s better looking-him on TV or in real life, huh?" Keh had already made his way to the bedside, leaning down with narrowed eyes as if daring her to say another man was more handsome. "Ugh... No matter how I answer. I''m doomed. Lisa really screwed me over this time! Ophelia thought as she clutched the nket and turned her head away, her lips barely twitching into any kind of expression.


    Keh lifted her chin, but she quickly shook him off, questioning, "Did you really go on a business trip or were you spending all this time abroad with another woman?" "Hah... What''s that supposed to mean?" he retorted.


    "You tell me," Ophelia muttered as she wrapped herself tighter in the nket,ying back down with her back to Keh. She let out a faint sigh, her throat tightening, "Fine! You just wait!" Keh frowned before dialing Mark''s number


    The call was quickly answered, and Keh asked, "While I was abroad this past month, was there a woman by my side!"


    "Huh? What... Mark hadn''t caught up with what was happening


    "Answer me honestly! Keh''s voice was icy and menacing.


    Mark stammered, "N-No. There wasn''t-


    Keh ended the call and threw the phone in front of Ophelia Go ahead, check whatever you want


    She scoffed, "Do you think I''m a child? Mark works for you, of course he''ll say whatever you tell him to! And you probably cleared your pl ahead of time..."


    Keh was fuming. He picked Ophelia up from the bed and set her on hisp, his brows furrowed and face serious, clearly trying to exin. But she couldn''t hold back herughter.


    She huffed. "Getting anxious, huh? I felt the exact same way earlier! How could you use me like that? If you don''t trust me in the future, I won''t bother exining myself." She thought to herself that Keh always had people watching over her. Everything about her was probably crystal clear to him. Realizing that Ophelia had been messing with him, Keh gritted his teeth in frustration, but there was nothing he could


    do about it.


    He buried his head in her neck and yfully "bir" her. "Why are you wearing the ne I gave you? Don''t like it?" She let out a quiet sigh, thinking about how costly the ne was and how she''d handle it if it got lost. Almost as if reading her mind, Keh added, "Wear it, and I''ll buy you a new one if anything happens to it." He sounded like a ne was no big deal.


    That ne cost 50 million dors, butpared to the 5,200 dessert shops he gave her, it was nothing.


    Ophelia hesitated. "Can we talk about something? Stop having so many people follow me around. I can take care of myself," Keh''s response was firm. "No." There was no room room for negotiation on that.


    He gently fixed Ophelia''s hair and pressed her back down onto the bed. Her wide eyes looked at him pitifully, almost melting his heart. "I''ll only pull back half of them," he finally conceded. Ophelia nodded, "Alright." She knew this was probably the biggestpromise Keh would ever make.

 Jilted Bride 47

    A few dayster, Dreamscape Studio was officially established. The studio was located in the Denex Entertainment & Innovation District, where many entertainmentpanies were based.


    Sharon only took 40% of the shares, and Ophelia, unable to argue with her, became the nominal owner. However, she didn''t get involved in thepany''s management and instead hired a professional agent team to handle everything. As the film''s reputation grew, so did Sharon''s range of roles. She quickly received several scripts from different production


    teams


    She texted Ophelia: [Elia, which one do you think I should take She also sent photos of each script to Ophelia.


    Ophelia noticed that Sharon had be incredibly clingytely, messaging her on WhatsApp for almost everything, aplete 180 from when they first met.


    After skimming through the scripts, Ophelia recalled which ones had good reviews in her previous life.


    She replied: [Why not try that pce intrigue drama?]


    Ophelia remembered that the pce intrigue drama would be very popr, and though Sharon''s character wasn''t entirely likable, it was well-rounded and beloved by audiences. Sharon replied: [OK]


    After that, she immediately had her agent decline the other scripts..


    Her agent protested, "Sharon, not to be rude, but you''re not even the third female lead in this pce drama, while one of the other scripts had you as the lead! Are you sure about this?" "Yeah. I''m sure, Sharon responded without hesitation. The agent didn''t quite understand but followed her instructions.


    anyway.


    Meanwhile, at Hastings Vi, the family hadn''t sat down for a meal together in a long time. Nathan had just been discharged from the hospital, with his broken arm still in ster. He lied, saying he''d fallen while drunk. The family knew what he was like, so they didn''t ask any further.


    "Emily, have some more, Heather said before serving Emily a piece of fish.


    Emily had no appetite. It had been a week, and On a Snowy Day had already grossed over 100 million dors, with the numbers still climbing. Meanwhile, her movie hadn''t even hit 15 million dors, and its online rating was so low that it wasn''t even showing up anymore.


    Her debut film hadn''t made her an overnight sensation-instead, it had turned her into a target of online hate. Sheined bitterly, knowing full well that it was Rex, the male lead, who had failed in his performance. Yet, she was the one getting dragged the most. And to make things worse, she was still being roasted online for wearing that designer''s giarized outfit.


    I wonder how Elia is doing at Rosewood Manor, Heather casually mentioned. Already in a bad mood, Emily grew even more irritated. But she wasn''t the only one feeling frustrated,


    Nathan nced at the sting around his chest, his eyes filled with anger. Trying to eat with his left hand was ufortable, and in a fit of rage, he threw his fork down. "Mom, why would you bring up that brat?*


    "What''s gotten into you? Heather snapped, rolling her eyes. "I was just making conversation. There are rumors online that she''s the founder of La Reverie. If that''s true, wouldn''t the Hastings family be gaining a whole new business? That''d make us 14:47 Mon, Nov 11 ti


    look pretty good." She had heard the gossip during a coffee meeup with some wealthy wives and thought the news. reflected well on her.


    006


    Nathan let out a sneer, grumbling inwardly, ''If she were really suite big-shot founder, would she have been so desperate to be one of the Hastings family? It''s all because she wanted to live in luxury. Disgusting Emily''s face darkened even more at the inention of La Reverie. She put down her fork and stood up, saying. Tm full."


    She mused, I finally get it. As long as Ophelia is around, I''ll never be the rightful heiress of the Hastings family. Heather isn''t my biological mother after all, and sooner orter, she''s going to ept Ophelia. When that happens, will there even be a ce for me in this house?


    Owen frowned, a hint of reproach in his tone. "Look at you. We''re just having a family meal. Why do you always bring up that brat? If she''s really the founder of that La Reverie or whatever, then just have her give the endorsement to Emily. We''re all family. Why let an outsider benclit?"


    "That girl is so stubborn. She treats us like enemies. Even if we talk to her, do you think she''ll listen?" Heather couldn''t help but feel a sense of unease when she thought about the way Ophelia had spoken to herst time.


    "You''re her mother. It''s only right for you to care more about her, but you can''t ignore Emily either. After all, we''ve raised Emily since she was a child." Owen put down his fork and stood up. Til go check on Emily. You all keep eating


    Just as he reached the stairs, he saw Emilying down with arge suitcase, her eyes slightly red. He asked, "What are you doing?"


    Hearing his voice, the rest of the family immediately got up from the dining table and came over.


    Emily forced a smile. "Dad, Mom, Harry, Nathan, I was never meant to be part of this family. Thank you all for taking care of me all these years, but I can''t keep imposing on you." As she spoke, tears began to fall, and she quickly lowered her head, not wanting them to see her crying Harry hurriedly grabbed the suitcase from her hands. "What are you talking about, Emily? Mom, it''s your fault. Why did you have to bring up Ophelia?


    "It''s not. Don''t me Mom. After all, Ophelia is her real daughter Harry, I''m fine." Emily lifted her head, showing a tearful yet brave-smile.


    Emily sighed. "I don''t know what''s been going ontely. The inte has really been targeting me and the Hastings family, Maybe if I leave, things will get better for the family. I''m the one dragging you all down." She spoke as she tried to take the suitcase from Harry''s hand. But what Emily was implying was clear. Everyone immediately assumed that Ophelia had failed to attack Emily directly, so Ophelia resorted to more underhanded methods. They all thought, ''How could such a malicious woman evenpare to Emily?'' Owen said, "Emily, don''t be upset with your mother. She''s only trying to talk to Ophelia so she can get you the La Reverie endorsement."


    "Really, Mom?" Emily asked hopefully.


    Even though Heather felt torn inside, she couldn''t bear the sight of her tearful daughter threatening to leave home. "Yes. I''ll go talk to her tomorrow and help you secure the endorsement. Be good now, stop crying."


    Owen gently patted Emily''s head. "Come on. It''s just one movie that didn''t do well, and the reviews weren''t great. It''s something every neer has to go through. What''s the big deal? I''ve already asked Sophia to help you out at thepany. She''s got plenty of resources, and she''ll give them all to you. Don''t worry."


    Father and daughter exchanged a look, and Emily immediately understood.


    The following day, at La Reverie''s studio, Chloe''s expansion efforts had paid off. La Reverie wasn''t just about dresses anymore. They hadunched a whole line of jewelry. The studio had also expanded, renting out an entire floor in Paralet Shopping Center for their operations. Their store on the first floor had now extended to the second floor, which was previously the studio space.


    They gradually moved from dresses to gown-style outfits, making some design modifications along the way.


    Since Chloe had to take care of Wyatt, a lot of the


    A few dayster, Dreamscape Studio was officially established. The studio was located in the Denex Entertainment & Innovation District, where many entertainmentpanies were based.


    Sharon only took 40% of the shares, and Ophelia, unable to argue with her, became the nominal owner. However, she didn''t get involved in thepany''s management and instead hired a professional agent team to handle everything.


    As the film''s reputation grew, so did Sharon''s range of roles. She quickly received several scripts from different production


    teams


    She texted Ophelia: [Elia, which one do you think I should take She also sent photos of each script to Ophelia.


    Ophelia noticed that Sharon had be incredibly clingytely, messaging her on WhatsApp for almost everything, aplete 180 from when they first met.


    After skimming through the scripts, Ophelia recalled which ones had good reviews in her previous life.


    She replied: [Why not try that pce intrigue drama?]


    Ophelia remembered that the pce intrigue drama would be very popr, and though Sharon''s character wasn''t entirely likable, it was well-rounded and beloved by audiences. Sharon replied: [OK]


    After that, she immediately had her agent decline the other scripts..


    Her agent protested, "Sharon, not to be rude, but you''re not even the third female lead in this pce drama, while one of the other scripts had you as the lead! Are you sure about this?" "Yeah. I''m sure, Sharon responded without hesitation. The agent didn''t quite understand but followed her instructions.


    anyway.


    Meanwhile, at Hastings Vi, the family hadn''t sat down for a meal together in a long time. Nathan had just been discharged from the hospital, with his broken arm still in ster. He lied, saying he''d fallen while drunk. The family knew what he was like, so they didn''t ask any further.


    "Emily, have some more, Heather said before serving Emily a piece of fish.


    Emily had no appetite. It had been a week, and On a Snowy Day had already grossed over 100 million dors, with the numbers still climbing. Meanwhile, her movie hadn''t even hit 15 million dors, and its online rating was so low that it wasn''t even showing up anymore.


    Her debut film hadn''t made her an overnight sensation-instead, it had turned her into a target of online hate. Sheined bitterly, knowing full well that it was Rex, the male lead, who had failed in his performance. Yet, she was the one getting dragged the most. And to make things worse, she was still being roasted online for wearing that designer''s giarized outfit.


    I wonder how Elia is doing at Rosewood Manor, Heather casually mentioned. Already in a bad mood, Emily grew even more irritated. But she wasn''t the only one feeling frustrated,


    Nathan nced at the sting around his chest, his eyes filled with anger. Trying to eat with his left hand was ufortable, and in a fit of rage, he threw his fork down. "Mom, why would you bring up that brat?*


    "What''s gotten into you? Heather snapped, rolling her eyes. "I was just making conversation. There are rumors online that she''s the founder of La Reverie. If that''s true, wouldn''t the Hastings family be gaining a whole new business? That''d make us 14:47 Mon, Nov 11 ti


    look pretty good." She had heard the gossip during a coffee meeup with some wealthy wives and thought the news. reflected well on her.


    006


    Nathan let out a sneer, grumbling inwardly, ''If she were really suite big-shot founder, would she have been so desperate to be one of the Hastings family? It''s all because she wanted to live in luxury. Disgusting Emily''s face darkened even more at the inention of La Reverie. She put down her fork and stood up, saying. Tm full."


    She mused, I finally get it. As long as Ophelia is around, I''ll never be the rightful heiress of the Hastings family. Heather isn''t my biological mother after all, and sooner orter, she''s going to ept Ophelia. When that happens, will there even be a ce for me in this house?


    Owen frowned, a hint of reproach in his tone. "Look at you. We''re just having a family meal. Why do you always bring up that brat? If she''s really the founder of that La Reverie or whatever, then just have her give the endorsement to Emily. We''re all family. Why let an outsider benclit?"


    "That girl is so stubborn. She treats us like enemies. Even if we talk to her, do you think she''ll listen?" Heather couldn''t help but feel a sense of unease when she thought about the way Ophelia had spoken to herst time.


    "You''re her mother. It''s only right for you to care more about her, but you can''t ignore Emily either. After all, we''ve raised Emily since she was a child." Owen put down his fork and stood up. Til go check on Emily. You all keep eating


    Just as he reached the stairs, he saw Emilying down with arge suitcase, her eyes slightly red. He asked, "What are you doing?"


    Hearing his voice, the rest of the family immediately got up from the dining table and came over.


    Emily forced a smile. "Dad, Mom, Harry, Nathan, I was never meant to be part of this family. Thank you all for taking care of me all these years, but I can''t keep imposing on you." As she spoke, tears began to fall, and she quickly lowered her head, not wanting them to see her crying Harry hurriedly grabbed the suitcase from her hands. "What are you talking about, Emily? Mom, it''s your fault. Why did you have to bring up Ophelia?


    "It''s not. Don''t me Mom. After all, Ophelia is her real daughter Harry, I''m fine." Emily lifted her head, showing a tearful yet brave-smile.


    Emily sighed. "I don''t know what''s been going ontely. The inte has really been targeting me and the Hastings family, Maybe if I leave, things will get better for the family. I''m the one dragging you all down." She spoke as she tried to take the suitcase from Harry''s hand. But what Emily was implying was clear. Everyone immediately assumed that Ophelia had failed to attack Emily directly, so Ophelia resorted to more underhanded methods. They all thought, ''How could such a malicious woman evenpare to Emily?'' Owen said, "Emily, don''t be upset with your mother. She''s only trying to talk to Ophelia so she can get you the La Reverie endorsement."


    "Really, Mom?" Emily asked hopefully.


    Even though Heather felt torn inside, she couldn''t bear the sight of her tearful daughter threatening to leave home. "Yes. I''ll go talk to her tomorrow and help you secure the endorsement. Be good now, stop crying."Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Owen gently patted Emily''s head. "Come on. It''s just one movie that didn''t do well, and the reviews weren''t great. It''s something every neer has to go through. What''s the big deal? I''ve already asked Sophia to help you out at thepany. She''s got plenty of resources, and she''ll give them all to you. Don''t worry."


    Father and daughter exchanged a look, and Emily immediately understood.


    The following day, at La Reverie''s studio, Chloe''s expansion efforts had paid off. La Reverie wasn''t just about dresses anymore. They hadunched a whole line of jewelry. The studio had also expanded, renting out an entire floor in Paralet Shopping Center for their operations. Their store on the first floor had now extended to the second floor, which was previously the studio space.


    They gradually moved from dresses to gown-style outfits, making some design modifications along the way.


    Since Chloe had to take care of Wyatt, a lot of the coborations now required Ophelia''s direct involvement. Chloe primarily handled the business side, while the design work was increasingly handed over to Marilyn.


    One of the staff came in to report, "Miss Spencer, Fashion Ladies former designer, Brock, has been causing a scene in the store. Chloe''s already called the police, but he refuses to leave and has scared off several customers.


    Brock had recently been fired by Fashion Ladies and was forced to pay a hefty sum in damages for breaching his contract, bing a total outcast in the industry. Ophelia believed that he had brought this on himself. Greedy people never ended up well.


    coborations now required Ophelia''s direct involvement. Chloe primarily handled the business side, while the design work was increasingly handed over to Marilyn.


    One of the staff came in to report, "Miss Spencer, Fashion Ladies former designer, Brock, has been causing a scene in the store. Chloe''s already called the police, but he refuses to leave and has scared off several customers.


    Brock had recently been fired by Fashion Ladies and was forced to pay a hefty sum in damages for breaching his contract, bing a total outcast in the industry. Ophelia believed that he had brought this on himself. Greedy people never ended up well.


    0

 Jilted Bride 48

    0


    00860% Chapter 48


    Brock shouted, "I don''t care! I have to see Ophelia today, or I''ll kill myself right in front of you! He was nothing like his former self-hair a tangled mess, unshaven, looking like a drunken tramp.


    He pressed a bloodstained fruit knife against his neck, eyeing the surrounding police officers with a wary gaze. Meanwhile, Chloe stood behind the police, her arm injured from a cut, still waiting for the doctor to treat her wound.


    The ss that had covered the dress was shattered, leaving broken shards all over the ground. People passing through the mall gathered around to watch the spectacle.


    Ophelia walked in with purpose, the crowd parting to make way for her.


    As soon as she entered, she noticed Chloe''s arm, where bright red blood was seeping through her fingers. The doctor finally arrived, carrying a medical kit to tend to her wound.


    Ophelia''s gaze instantly sharpened, icy, and full of lethal intent "Didn''t you want to see me? Say what you need to."


    Brock followed her voice and, the moment he saw her, became visibly more agitated. "Ophelia, it''s all your fault! It''s because of you that I''ve ended up like this!"


    "Because of me? Did I force you to giarize or did I make you steal my designs? Don''t me me for your downfall." Ophelia retorted, her voice thick with sarcasm, her gaze still cold.


    Before Brock could respond, she turned to the police officers, her eyes carrying an intimidating authority. "He''s already assaulted someone. Are you really afraid he''ll kill himself out of guilt? A coward like him, if he really wanted to die, he would''ve done it already." Hearing that, the officers exchanged nces, ready to inch closer. But when Brock saw them, he panicked and retreated. "Stay back! Don''te near me! Don''t you


    dare!


    Suddenly, his eyes locked onto Ophelia, and in one swift movement, he lunged at her.


    way.


    As a result, what should have been an easy escape for her was fouled as Brock grabbed her by the clothes, pulling her back. The sharp fruit knife was pressed against her smooth, delicate neck, and his arm mped tightly around her shoulder. Watch out..." At that moment, someone from the crowd suddenly rushed forward, trying to push Ophelia out of the


    Heather turned pale, gasping in fear. "No! Don''t!"


    The police officers, who had been ready to act, hesitated and retreated when they saw Brock now had a hostage. "Don''t do anything rash!"


    Chloe, her bandage still unfinished, immediately stood up and ran over in panic. "Brock, what are you doing? If you want a hostage, take me! Let Ophelia go!"


    "All of you, back off!" Brock pushed the knife harder against Ophelia''s neck.


    Ophelia''s face remained calm as she gave Chloe a reassuring look.


    Taking a deep breath, Ophelia shifted her gaze to Heather, wondering, ''Do I owe her something from a past life? If it weren''t for her sudden appearance, I could''ve lodged this. Still, it works out for me.


    Brock hadpletely lost his mind. His forehead was drenched in sweat, and he kept nervously swallowing, gasping for air inrge breaths. He sneered, "You finally ended up in my hands Ophelia. You deserve this! How about I send you off, huh?" Brock pressed the tip of the knife deeper into Ophelia''s skin, and a drop of blood ran down her smooth, delicate, swan-like


    neck.


    14.47 Mon,


    60%


    "No... Please don''t hurt my daughter. I-I''ll take her ce as your hostage, Heather stammered, her face pale with fear as she spoke, trembling all over.


    Ophelia nced over indifferently, her heartpletely unmoved. To her, the so-called family bond that came sote was worth less than dirt, and besides, how much of it was even genuine?


    Brock stepped on the broken ss scattered on the ground, dragging Ophelia backward with him, step by step. He knew there was no escaping today and thought that even if he died, he would take Ophelia down with him.


    Brock fully med Ophelia for everything that had happened to him today. With that thought, he summoned all his strength, raising his hand to stab her in the neck.


    "Ah!" the people around them screamed in terror.


    But just then. Ophelia grabbed Brock''s wrist with a fierce grip as it came down toward her.


    In the next moment, there was a loud crack as his bone shattered. The knife slipped from his hand, and using the momentum. Ophelia flipped him over her shoulder, mming him to the ground.


    "Ah!" Brock crashed onto the broken ss, curling up in agony from the pain.


    In just a few seconds, Ophelia''s swift and sharp moves left the nearby police officers feeling ashamed. It didn''t take long for them to restrain Brock, securing his hands and feet. Chloe quickly rush


    over, carrying a first aid kit to treat the wound on Ophelia''s neck, her concern written all over her face -there was no way she could fake that.


    Just as the police were about to take Brock away, Ophelia suddenly called out to them, "Can I say something to him?"


    Seeing the injury on her neck, the officers hesitated for a moment, exchanged a nce, and then left one officer to keep Brock restrained


    Ophelia curled her lips into a sneer, her eyes still filled with icy contempt. "If I hadn''t let you take me hostage on purpose, how else could the police have had enough to convict you?"


    Brock''s eyes widened in shock. He couldn''t believe that the kind girl from the slums had be so ruthless. But above all, he felt nothing but rage. He shouted, "Ophelia! You did that on purpose! I''ll kill you-"


    But Brock was utterly immobilized, unable to move his hands or feet. He was thrown into the car like livestock being loaded


    1. up.


    As Ophelia watched the police car drive away, her expression remained as calm as if nothing more than a fly had just buzzed in. She reflected silently, determined that in this life, she would never again allow anyone to hurt the people who truly cared about her. After the ordeal, the store returned to its usual quiet, and the crowd at the door gradually dispersed. Heather took a few steps forward and saw the wound on Ophelia''s neck. Her face was painted with fake concern.


    "That was so dangerous, Elia! You must have been terrified, right? Heather asked, clearly relieved that it wasn''t Emily who had been held hostage.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Ophelia didn''t respond to Heather. She turned to the staff and reassured them, saying, "I''m really sorry that this all happened because of me. Go to Chloeter to collect somepensation. If you want to stay, your bonus at the end of the month will be doubled. "If you''d rather leave because of this, you can also collect yourpensation and resign. You''ll still get a full month''s pay."


    "Miss Spencer, we''re fine. Chloe was looking out for us the whole time. It was just a bit scary. How are you?" Once one person spoke, the others followed, none of them expressing a desire to quit. Instead, they all showed concern for Ophelia and 14:47 Mon, Nov


    Chloe''s injuries.


    Ophelia had them clean up the broken ss and put everything back in its ce. Meanwhile, Heather stood behind her. showing no intention of leaving. After a while, she made herselffortable on the couch in the reception area. Heather called out, "Hey, get me a drink. I''m your boss'' mother.


    The staff nodded quickly and hurried to fetch her a ss of water Seeing this, Heather frowned. "You guys didn''t have any coffee?"


    The employee replied, I''ll get you a cup right away


    Just as the employee turned around, her hand was suddenly empty. Ophelia had taken the ss from her, poured the water into a flowerpot, and tossed the cup into the wastebasket. "It''s fine. Go ahead and take care of your work. One moment, Ophelia had been smiling warmly at the staff, and the next, her gaze toward Heather was cold and distant. "Mrs. Hastings, if you''re here to bJilted bride 60uy dress

 Jilted Bride 49

    ou''re here to stir up trouble, you can leave."


    COMMENT


    0


    60%1


    "It seems like he took poison, He had shown signs of being suicidal before, so the police ruled it as suicide, Chloe replied. Ophelia suddenly felt a bit uneasy and wondered, ''Suicide? Someone like Brock would never kill himself


    Then, another possibility crossed her mind, and she thought, ''Who could have taken care of him so quietly and efficiently?


    It wasn''t that Ophelia was overly sympathetic. She just didn''t believe Brock deserved to die. The thought of having someone snuffed out like that left a sour taste in her mouth.


    Chloe, probably having picked up on something from Ophelia''s expression, didn''t say anything. After all, Chloe thought that Brock''s death was well deserved after the narrow escape they had just had. Ophelia stood up, feeling a slight numbness in her feet. "I''m heading out, Chloe."


    Before Chloe could respond, Ophelia had already gged down a car on the street and headed back to Rosewood Manor.


    When Ophelia walked through the door, she bumped into Lisa, who was about to bring her lunch.


    Lisa, clearly surprised since she hadn''t known Ophelia would be home at noon, said, "Miss Spencer, you''re back just in time. Lunch is ready."


    "I''m not hungry. I think I''ll just head upstairs and sleep for a bit, Ophelia replied.


    As Lisa watched Ophelia walk up the stairs, she noticed that Ophelia didn''t look too well and felt a bit uneasy. She then made a phone call.


    Lisa reported, "Mr. Sinir, Miss Spencer didn''t look too good today. She came back early and said she wanted to sleep, but she hasn''t eaten yet."? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    "I see," Keh responded.


    On the other end of the line, Keh sat in his wheelchair across from an elderly man with snow-white hair. The old man wore a dark green suit and leaned on his cane, arge emerald ring on his finger. "Mark, take him back. I don''t want to see him hanging around anymore," Keh ordered.


    "Understood," Mark replied.


    Ronan Sinir stood up, gripping his gold-topped cane. He hadn''te for much today-just to see if the rumors about Keh''s failing health were true.


    As Ronan left, he overheard coughing from inside the room and thought, ''It won''t be long before Sinir Group falls back into my hands.


    After Mark returned from dropping Ronan off, Keh got up from his wheelchair, washed his face, and wiped it with a damp towel. The sickly pale look on his face vanished, and he instantly appeared more energetic. "Did something happen to Ophelia today?" Keh asked.


    Mark received a call as he was heading upstairs. Feeling a bit guilty, but knowing he couldn''t lie, he replied, "Earlier... Miss Spencer was in apetition, and a guy who had giarized her work was cklisted by the industry. Enraged, he went looking for her and almost...almost hurt her."


    He thought that they had just pulled away the team protecting Ophelia, and now something like this happened. Keh


    would be furious.


    As expected, when Keh heard Mark''s words, his eyes darkened with a cold intensity. "Where is he?"


    "He''s already taken his own life out of guilt," Mark replied.


    Keh huffed in response, thinking that someone like him didn''t deserve to live anyway.


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    Meanwhile, Ophelia, who was lying in bed, had drifted off into a fitful sleep, her dreams haunted by the image of Brock''s face.


    "How about I send you off, huh?" His voice echoed again and again in Ophelia''s mind, mixing with memories of both his kindness and cruelty. Every version of his face in her mind twisted into something grotesque, the knife pressing against her throat before suddenly plunging toward her.


    Ophelia shot awake, gasping for breath, her forehead slick with cold sweat and her backpletely drenched. As her vision slowly cleared, she saw Keh sitting beside her bed.


    His brows were furrowed, and his sharp, otherworldly features reflected in Ophelia''s wide eyes.


    When Keh noticed the waterproof bandage on her neck and how pale and shaken she looked, he felt an overwhelming urge to dig up Brock''s corpse and grind his bones into dust.


    Ophelia could see Keh''s jaw clench, the muscles in his cheek tensing slightly. She sat up, leaning against the headboard. "It''s nothing. The wound''s not serious."


    Keh didn''t say anything. Instead, he gently peeled back the bandage to check. Then, he thought, ''Good thing it wasn''t deep. Otherwise, none of those people I sent to protect her would''ve lived.


    He carefully reapplied the bandage and pulled Ophelia into his arms, murmuring, "Go back to sleep."


    "Okay," she whispered.


    True to his word, Ophelia slept more peacefully in Keh''s arms.


    Ophelia loved him, so she epted everything about him, including his ways of handling things. Still, there was a lingering guilt in her heart over Brock that she couldn''t quite shake.


    When dinner rolled around, Keh had the dishes brought up. Ophelia only had a small nick on her neck, yet she was being treated like she had some serious illness. It all felt a little excessive.


    But as soon as she took two bites, her stomach churned, and she quickly ran to the bathroom, crouching by the toilet, dry heaving.


    1

 Jilted Bride 51

    Keh quickly closed the distance in just a few strides, crouching down beside Ophelia. He gently wrapped his arms around her shoulders and fixed her hair. When he saw that she was in difort, his brows furrowed with concern.


    Lisa hurriedly brought over a ss of water, handing it to Ophe while muttering anxiously, "These are all Miss Spencer''s favorite dishes. What''s going on today?"


    Ophelia dry-heaved for a moment, but nothing came up-still, the nausea remained.


    "Call the doctor," Keh ordered coldly. When he saw that her face was deathly pale, he felt like his heart was being crushed by an iron grip.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    "Oh, right... Okay..." Lisa turned to leave but suddenly stopped at the doorway, ncing at the wastebasket. "Miss Spencer, when was thest time you had your period?".


    Ophelia took a sip of water. It had been a long time since her body had felt this off. When she heard Lisa''s question, something clicked in her mind.


    Ophelia realized it had been almost two months since herst period. When she was younger, she had often missed her cycle due to cold exposure, so she never kept track of it closely. But then she couldn''t help but wonder what Lisa meant by that. Noticing Ophelia''s expression, Lisa suddenly smiled knowingly, "Mr. Sinir, Miss Spencer might be pregnant."


    Lisa grinned from ear to ear, thinking, ''No wonder Miss Spencer''s usual favorite foods aren''t agreeing with her. Pregnant women are just like that, aren''t they?''


    Ophelia nced down at her t stomach, unsure of how to feel. She turned to look at Keh and saw that his sharp-featured face showed no clear emotion. But as she leaned against him, she could sense his body was tense.


    "I''ll call the hospital." He stood up straight, forgetting that Ophelia was still resting against him.


    Keh''s sudden movement almost caused Ophelia to fall backward, but thankfully, Lisa caught her just in time.


    Once the dishes were cleared away, Ophelia''s stomach felt a bit better, though there was a faint, dragging sensation in her lower abdomen.


    Lisa made some more simple, light food and sent it up, and Ophelia finished it all in one sitting.


    "That''s how it is with pregnancy-sometimes you''ll have an appetite, other times not so much. Pregnant women tend to have cravings. Just let me know if you want something specific." Lisa''s tone was cheerful.


    "Okay." Ophelia asionally looked down at her stomach, with emotions she had never experienced before. "Lisa, do you think... I can be a good mom?" As she asked, she thought of Heather and that cold, distant family.


    Ophelia was an orphan, never having known the love of parents. If it weren''t for everything she had been through in her past life, she wouldn''t even know how to love Keh now.


    Lisa looked at Ophelia with sympathy. "Of course! You and Mr. Sinir are going to be great parents."


    "Yeah... But what was Keh like as a child, Lisa?" Ophelia asked


    Lisa smiled fondly, "Oh, Mr. Sinir was such a well-behaved child. Quiet and a little shy, but always so smart. Far more intelligent than Mr. Patrick, that''s for sure. Wait. Didn''t Mr. Sinir say he was going to call the hospital? Why''s it taking so long?" Ophelia smiled, thinking Keh was probably just too nervous. She said, "I''ll go check on him."


    60%


    14:47 Mon, Nov 11 u ti


    Keh had been locking himself in the study, and Ophelia

 Jilted Bride 52

    Ophelia shifted her gaze to Liam, who stood at the entrance of the dining room. "Lisa," she instructed, "get Liam in a wheelchair and take him for a walk."


    Liam hesitated for a moment, but quickly grasped Ophelia''s intention. They had once spread rumors about a disabled, perverted old man living in Rosewood Manor.


    It dawned on him that Ophelia''s folks must''ve been all too happy to marry off their daughter for a fat paycheck. The fact that only a chauffeur had escorted Ophelia when she first showed up said it all about her parents.


    Liam nced at Keh, who gave a slight nod. With that, he sat into the wheelchair, letting Lisa take the handles.


    As they moved, a thought struck Liam. ''Wait, why on earth did Miss Spencer cast me as some pervy old dude?''


    Lisa grunted as she maneuvered the wheelchair, muttering under her breath, "Jeez, old man. You might not look it, but you''re heavy as a sack of bricks."


    From the doorway, Heather craned her neck for a better view. She knew Ophelia might brush off her words, but she was certain that this "old man" would have Ophelia wrapped around his finger.


    Emily carefully surveyed the courtyard''s furnishings, thinking to herself, "Talk about living high on the hog, she thought. ''She doesn''t deserve any of this.


    Curiosity had gotten the better of Emily, prompting her to tag along with Heather this morning. She was itching to see what kind of man had snagged Ophelia. In Emily''s mind, Ophelia''s cushy life had to be the result of cozying up to this guy. Rumor had it he was some hotshot businessman from overseas.


    Lisa wheeled Liam forward, smiling politely, "Ladies, this is Mr. Sinir. May I ask what brings you here today?"


    Liam slumped in his wheelchair, putting on a show of extreme frailty. To anyone watching, he appeared moments away from drawing hisst breath.


    The two women at the door froze, staring in disbelief at Liam under the crabapple tree in the courtyard. Heather and Lisa exchanged a nce, their thoughts in sync. ''He still wanted to get married at his age? It looks like he''s on death''s door."


    They continued their silent appraisal. ''Sure, he''s old and disabled, but you can tell he was probably quite the looker back in the day. Still, there''s no denying he''s ancient now. Must be pushing seventy, at least. He could easily be Ophelia''s grandpa. No wonder he''s so generous with her.''


    After a long silence, Heather fumbled for the right words, her mouth twitching slightly as she finally spoke. "I hope my daughter hasn''t been giving you any trouble. She can be challenging. If she''s done anything to upset you, please don''t take it personally." It sounded like something a mother should say, but the insincerity was palpable.


    Liam and Lisa, having worked for the Sinir family for years, had seen all types. This act might have fooled others, but they weren''t buying it for a second.


    Heather chuckled awkwardly, thinking to herself, ''Why aren''t they inviting us in? Are we just going to stand here at the door?''


    She forced a smile, not forgetting her purpose foring today. "Ophelia," she said, her tone dripping with false concern, "we arranged for her to marry intofort, but she''s acting like we''ve done her wrong. Ever since the wedding, she''s been giving us the cold shoulder. We''re supposed to be family, but she''s treating us like we''re the enemy."


    Their n was obvious - paint Ophelia as a disrespectful brat in Liam''s eyes.


    14.48


    Mon, NovContent property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    pretending to rest andpletely ignoring her.


    60%1


    Lisa smiled brightly at them. "Ma''am, I owe you an apology for my behavior earlier. I misunderstood your intentions. Please forgive me." With that, she wheeled Liam away, leaving Heather and Emily standing helplessly. Heather paced anxiously. "What should we do, Emily? If your dad finds out, we''re done for." She had no idea what to do if they really cut off their money.


    "Don''t worry, Mom. It''ll be fine," Emily said, eyeing Heather with disdain. ''You just can''t handle anything properly!


    Discreetly, Emily pulled out her phone and snapped a photo of Liam''s profile. She was confident that Ophelia would want to keep her marriage into Rosewood Manor under wraps. This photo would be her leverage. Meanwhile, in the backyard of the mansion, Ophelia was engrossed in a game of chess with Keh.


    Lisa reported every detail to the couple, and her voice tinged with anger as she spoke. Ophelia, however, remained remarkably unfazed. Still, Lisa felt a sense of satisfaction in the end, thanks to Liam''s knack for clever schemes. Sensing her cue to leave, Lisa tactfully excused herself.


    Keh ced a chess piece, ncing at Ophelia''s impassive face. "About the Hastings situation... Need me to step in?"


    "No need," Ophelia replied, moving her own piece. "Asking for your help would be like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut, wouldn''t it? But, could you make that plot ofnd by the West End Ser Field avable?" "Sure," Keh agreed softly.


    Ophelia looked up at him, raising an eyebrow. "Aren''t you g

 Jilted Bride 53

    Keh ced a piece on the board and reached out to pat Ophelia''s head. "I won''t ask. You can do anything you want."


    "Really?" Ophelia''s eyes lit up.


    "Except children," he added firmly.


    Ophelia''s lips turned down slightly. ''Of course,'' she thought. ''He''s still not budging on that issue!


    Keh gently tilted her chin up, leaning in closer. "While the end result isn''t possible, I can certainly make the process enjoyable for you..."


    "Stop it..." Ophelia''s cheeks flushed pink at his words.


    Keh''s gaze lowered, his interest in the game board suddenly waning.


    With Keh out for the afternoon, Ophelia seized the chance to slip away to her studio. The harsh realities of running a household had hit her hard - bills were piling up, and her studio was bleeding money. She needed a quick fix for her financial woes. That afternoon, before the stock market closed, Ophelia made her way to the stock exchange.


    In her previous life, she hadn''t dabbled in stocks. But a couple of days ago, while Keh was keeping herpany, she''d caught a glimpse of hisputer screen and overheard bits of his conversation with Mark.


    Then, Ophelia figured that following Sinir Group was a surefire way to turn a profit. After registering an ount, she invested half of her avable funds into the stocks they''d mentioned.


    "Youngdy, do you even understand stocks?" An older man nearby couldn''t resist chiming in. "Those penny stocks you''ve picked are heading south fast. You might as well flush your money down the toilet!"


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow, her voice cool as a cucumber. "Is that so? What would you suggest then, sir?"


    The man adjusted his bifocals, squinting at the massive disy board. "We''ve been watching Harvest Organics and Starry Citytely. Both are looking promising. They opened at 7.3 dors and have already climbed to 10 dors. At this rate, we''re in for another bull run this week."


    Though Ophelia wasn''t well-versed in the stock market, she recalled news from her past life. Harvest Organics seemed fine, but Starry City was likely headed for a major drop and would eventually be swallowed by Sinir Group.


    "I''d advise you to sell off all your Starry City shares as soon as possible," she told the older man.


    He scoffed, "Are you crazy? The stock''s on a roll. I''d have to be out of my mind to sell it now. Youngdy, you don''t know the first thing about this."


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow but said nothing more. After making her purchases, she left. She''d handle her own trades online from now on. There was no need toe back here.


    At Sinir Group, Keh sat in his wheelchair, absently fiddling with his pinky ring. "So Ophelia picked all those stocks?" he asked.


    "Yes, Mr. Sinir." Mark confirmed from beside him.


    ''Mr. Sinir is so weird, Mark thought. ''He clearly wants to help, but instead of doing it directly, he chooses this roundabout method. It''s hard to understand his motives." 14:48 Mon,


    "You know what to do, right Keh asked.


    "Yes, sir," Mark replied aloud while thinking to himself, ''Of course, the goal is to make sure Miss Spencer rakes in a fortune. though it''s quite a windfall for those small-time investors.


    Two weekster, the stocks Ophelia had chosen skyrocketed. She had made a killing, riding the wave of Sinir Group''s


    sess.


    During the same period, Starry City''s stock took a nosedive, plummeting from 10 dors to just over four dors, with no signs of stopping its freefall.


    Passing by the stock exchange, one could hear the anguished cries of investors who had lost everything.


    Suddenly, a harsh voice rang out from across the street. "Get lost, you parasite! You''ve been here eight times in a week. We don''t have time for your nonsense. That shellpany of yours is nothing but a money pit. You''re bad news. Now scram before I call security!" "I just want to meet your CEO. Please, let me see him," the young man pleaded.


    "I said get lost!" The harsh reply came.


    Papers exploded from the briefcase, swirling in the air before raining down on the young man. His shoulders slumped as he stood there, looking quite defeated and exhausted..


    Ophelia hadn''t paid much attention at first, but suddenly, a stray paper fluttered across the street,nding near her feet.


    It read: [Christopher Tech Group]


    ''Christopher? Is that Christopher Smith across the street?'' Ophelia''s eyes suddenly lit up. "The future tech industry leader, Christopher? I can''t believe I''ve run into him! Though right now, he''s probably just a fresh college graduate struggling to start his business.'' Ophelia hadn''t known this man or anything about his inte technologypany before. In her previous life, it was Harry who had helped him when his startup failed, and he faced a series of setbacks.


    Harry had bought the man''spany at a very low price and helped him pay off part of his debts. Out of gratitude and to repay his debt, Christopher had been working for variouspanies under Hastings Group ever since. Ophelia had seen him once at a Hastings family gathering in her past life.


    Later, when the Hastings family faced problems in their real estate business, it was Christopher''spany that helped them weather the storm. Hispany became Emily''s most valuable asset.


    Ophelia crossed the street. Christopher was picking up the pages of his business proposal-the result of three sleepless nights-from the ground. As he looked up, he saw a young woman helping him gather the scattered papers.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    "Th-thank you..." Christopher stammered. It was often the kindness of strangers that caught people off guard, breaking down their defenses when they least expected it. Christopher kept his head bowed, eyes rimmed red as tears sttered onto the pavement. Ophelia''s voice was soft. "Mind if I take a look?"


    "Yeah, sure." Christopher gathered the papers from the ground, brushing off dirt and smudges as if handling precious artifacts. He passed them over like they were made of ss.


    Ophelia couldn''t make heads or tails of the content, but she gave each page a thorough once-over anyway.


    Christopherposed himself, watching Ophelia pore over the documents. She''d given them more aftention than anyone else, save for himself. Despite suspecting it might be a mere pity, warmth bloomed in his chest.


    Ophelia finally looked up. I wanted to invest, how much would you need?"


    60%


    Her question caught Christopher off guard. He looked at the strikingly beautiful girl, her attire suggesting she was still in high school. He gave a wry smile. "Thank you, but investing in this project... Well, it would require at least 1.5 million dors.


    This was a conservative estimate. Once research and development for this kind of technology began, there would be no immediate returns-only a constant need for more funding. Tech R&D was notoriously expensive. Christopher had quoted the bare minimum, not wanting to scare Ophelia.


    To his surprise, Ophelia simply nodded. "No problem. When can we sign the contract?"


    Christopher''s eyes widened in disbelief. After all, this was 1.5 million dors, not some pocket change investment.


    Ophelia pulled out a card from her purse. "I just made some money from the stock market. I''ve been looking to make an investment."


    A high schooler ying the stock market?'' Christopher couldn''t help but feel skeptical. He stared at Ophelia''s delicate hand as she held out a bank card to him and couldn''t help but wonder if she was afraid of losing everything. "But..." Christopher hesitated.


    Ophelia cur him off. "If I''m not afraid to invest, why are you?"


    Before Christopher could protest, Ophelia took him to the nearest ATM. She inserted the card and pulled up the bnce.


    Christopher''s eyes nearly popped out of his head. The ount was loaded with a cool seven million dors. He looked at Ophelia in shock, wondering if she had lost her mind.


    ''Hold on a sec...,'' he thought. ''Who is this girl, really? Is she some trust fund kid? But her clothes don''t suggest that. And the wisdom and shrewdness in her eyes... It''s not something you''d typically see in a rich heiress her age.


    0

 Jilted Bride 54

    "Seven million dors for seventy percent of the shares." Ophelia stated firmly.


    In reality, seven million dors could buy two or threepanies like Christopher''s outright.


    Christopher stood there, his expression nk with shock. He couldn''t seem to process what he''d just heard.


    Ophelia didn''t have much experience in such negotiations. She misinterpreted his stunned look and thought perhaps she''d asked for too much. She pressed the card into his hand and quickly backpedaled. "Okay, how about sixty-five percent? That''s as low as I can go." Christopher finally snapped out of his trance. "What? No, that''s not what I mean... Look, you can have the wholepany if you want. Just let me keep working on this project..."


    Ophelia realized then that he truly was a tech visionary, born for scientific innovation. "Alright," she agreed. "Draw up the contract and let me know. If you need more funding, just say the word."


    Christopher stared at the bank card in his hand, overwhelmed with gratitude. He had never met Ophelia before, yet she had shown him such immense trust.


    After a moment of silence, Christopher looked up, his demeanor now one of renewed determination. "You can count on me, boss," he said firmly.


    They exchanged phone numbers and agreed to meet in a week to sign the contract.


    What Ophelia didn''t know was that those seven million dors hadn''t just saved Christopher''spany - they had also saved his gravely ill mother.


    In the future, even if Harry showed up again, he could never shake Ophelia''s ce in Christopher''s heart.


    The next afternoon, Christopher received a call from Harry while he was at the hospital looking after his mother. "Mr. Smith, I heard you''ve been having a tough timetely," Harry said. "If you need any help, I''m here for you."


    Harry had heard that Christopher''spany was on the brink of bankruptcy and his mother was in critical condition. Christopher was at his wit''s end. Harry had been biding his time, waiting to swoop in and buy thepany at rock-bottom prices. He''d also get to y the savior, earning Christopher''s loyalty to Hastings Group.


    This call, Harry thought, would be like offering a lifeline to a drowning man, and Christopher would be overwhelmed with gratitude.


    "Thank you, Mr. Hastings, but the issue has been resolved," Christopher replied.


    Harry frowned. ''Resolved? How is that possible? Who in the right mind would want such a mess of apany?'' Christopher wasn''t a fool. He knew all too well how big corporations like Harry''s operated. Their help was just pretty words masking their true interest - profit. They were simply waiting to lowball him and take advantage of his misfortune.


    In contrast, Christopher knew Ophelia was genuinely helping him, making him feel sincere and free from pretense.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    "If there''s nothing else, I''m hanging up," Christopher said bluntly, ending the call.


    Harry stood dumbfounded, listening to the beep. He was shocked that Christopher dared to hang up on him.


    Immediately, Harry ordered his secretary to investigate who had beaten them to the punch. If it was some no-name smallpany, he figured he could easily outbid them with a bit more cash.


    ***


    48 Mon, Nov 11


    A weekter, Christopher slid a contract across the table to Ophelia in a caf¨¦ near the hospital. Without skipping a beat, Ophelia flipped to thest page and signed her name. Her swift, no-nonsense approach left Christopher stunned. 59%


    "Wait, hold on," Christopher said, his eyes wide. "Don''t you want jo, I don''t know, read it first?" He''d dealt with investors before, and they typically scrutinized contracts as if with a magnifying ss, haggling over fractions of a percentage. But Ophelia was the most efficient he''d ever encountered.


    "I trust you," Ophelia said simply. She knew Christopher''s character well enough. In her previous life, despite facing unfair treatment while working under Hastings Group, he had never betrayed anyone''s trust. That spoke volumes about his integrity.


    Before Christopher could even express his gratitude, Ophelia stood up. "Alright, that''s settled. Call me if anythinges up," she said briskly.


    Christopher scratched his head, puzzled. ''Doesn''t she want to ask about the ns for thepany''s future?'' he wondered.


    Even though Ophelia hadn''t asked, he''de prepared. "Just a sec, Miss Spencer. I''ve drafted this-"


    "Right," Ophelia cut him off, scooping up the papers as she rose. Take care of the tab. Call if anythinges up."


    With that, she spun on her heel and marched out, leaving Christopher feeling bewildered.


    As Ophelia neared the exit, she nearly mmed into Harry, who''d rushed over after hearing the news.


    They narrowly avoided a collision. Ophelia scowled, stepping back and brushing off her clothes as if contaminated.


    Recognition shed across Harry''s face. ''So it really is her. What''s she up to?"


    "Ophelia," Harry blurted, "I can''t believe it''s really you." It was clear he''d done his homework. Ophelia raised an eyebrow, unfazed. She hadn''t nned on hiding her identity anyway. He would have found out sooner orter. The caf¨¦ was bustling with peopleing and going. Standing in the doorway wasn''t the best ce for a conversation.


    Christopher, noticing the tension, stood up and gestured for them toe over and talk.


    Harry smiled politely, pushing his gold-rimmed sses up his nose. "What a coincidence, Mr. Smith. I never imagined my sister would be the one investing in yourpany."


    ''Sister?'' Christopher thought, ncing at Ophelia in confusion. The contempt in her eyes was palpable. Clearly, there was no love lost between these two. He finally realized why Ophelia was aware of his predicament.


    "Mr. Hastings, you got to be kidding me," Ophelia said coldly. "You''re a Hastings, but I''m a rk. I''d hardly call that a family connection."


    A flicker of embarrassment crossed Harry''s face, but he quickly recovered with a tolerant smile. "Ophelia, I know you''ve had a rough rtionship with the family and harbor resentment towards us. But we''re still blood rtives. Since we''re family, surely we can work things out..."


    "Blood rtives?" Ophelia scoffed. "Funny, I remember someone saying that real family is built on day-to-day bonds, not just DNA. If that''s the case, how can you im we''re family now?" Her words echoed what Harry had said when she first joined the Hastings family. "Don''t be ridiculous." Harry frowned. "The Hastings family has their eye on this project for investment. You shouldn''t meddle in this - it''s not some child''s y. Do you have any idea how much it costs to invest in a techpany? We''re talking at least 1.5 million dors. Where would you even get that kind of money?"


    Ophelia ignored him, her gaze fixed on the window, frequently checking the time on her phone.


    Harry pushed his sses up the bridge of his nose, concealing the dissatisfaction in his eyes. 14:48 Mon, Nov 11 wwt


    B


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    "I apologize for this, Mr. Smith," he said smoothly. "Let me make you an offer. I admire your work, and given my sister''s connection to you, I''m willing to increase our buyout offer to two million dors for yourpany. Additionally, Hastings Group will offer you an annual sry of 200 thousand dors to manage this techpany specifically."


    "Heh... Ophelia couldn''t help but let out a coldugh. It all sounded so nice, delivered with just the right touch of condescension - perfectly in line with the Hastings'' way of doing business.


    Christopher nced at Ophelia. He had suspected she might be from some wealthy family, but their interactions made him doubt it. Even if she were part of the Hastings family, he''d be willing to work for them. All she had to do was say the word. "Think it over. I''m leaving," Ophelia said urgently, rising from her seat and exiting the caf¨¦.

 Jilted Bride 55

    0


    14:48 Mon, Nov 11 er uti.


    A discreet Maybach was parked at the mouth of an alley next to the hospital.


    The tinted windows reflected Keh''s stunningly handsome features. His deep-set eyes lowered slightly as he casually raised his wrist to check the time on his watch.


    Ophelia yanked open the car door and quickly slid into the back seat.


    "One minute and forty-three secondste," Keh remarked coolly.


    Ophelia caught her breath, mentally cursing Harry to hell and back. She gazed up at Keh, the picture of cool sophistication, her eyes wide and pleading like a wounded doe. This guy is truly an asshole,'' she thought bitterly.


    Keh''s eyes shed with a hint of smugness as he instructed the driver to start moving. He casually ruffled the girl''s hair. "Remember, your weekends are mine," he said softly. ''Since when did we agree on that?'' Ophelia thought, pouting slightly.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    It seemed that spending weekends together had somehow be an unspoken rule between them. She secretly decided to give Keh a hard time about it next time. "So, you''re one minute and forty-three secondste. How do you n to make it up to me?" Keh pressed on.


    When Ophelia remained silent, Keh nced meaningfully at the driver. Understanding the cue, the driver raised the partition between them.


    Keh''s voice was velvet-smooth as he leaned in close. "A deal''s a deal, sweetheart," he murmured, his breath warm against her ear. The pet name dripped with charm, and Ophelia felt her pulse quicken. His voice alone was a siren call she couldn''t resist.


    In the coffee shop, Harry fiddled with his shirt cuff. "So, what do you think of my offer?" he asked, exuding confidence. In Harry''s mind, Ophelia had already admitted defeat, handing the decision over to Christopher. Her so-called "investment" would amount to a few hundred thousand dors at most-pocket change that wouldn''t make a dent in Christopher''s shell of apany.


    Harry couldn''t fathom Christopher turning down such a generous offer. He leaned in, his voice a mix of persuasion and condescension.


    "Look, Christopher," he said, dropping the formality. "I get it. Selling yourpany isn''t easy. But I''m offering you an annual sry of 200 thousand dors to work at Hastings Group. You''ll still be doing what you love, minus all the risks. Win-win, right?" Harry''s tone turned dismissive as he added, "Young and impulsive, my sister has no clue what it takes to invest in apany. So-"


    Christopher cut him off firmly. "I''m sorry, Mr. Hastings, but Miss Spencer has already invested seven million dors in mypany. We''ve signed a contract, and she now owns 70 percent of the shares. She''s my boss. If you want to discuss any acquisitions, you''ll need to talk to her directly."


    Harry was taken aback. He leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing as they unconsciously fixated on the briefcase at Christopher''s side.


    ''Seven million dors? You''ve got to be kidding me,'' Harry thought. ''Where on earth did Ophelia get that kind of money?


    70


    Has Christopher lost his mind?''


    Sensing Harry''s disbelief, Christopher pulled out the agreement and flipped to thest page, showing it to him.


    Harry''s chest heaved, his face turning a deep shade of red. He recalled Ophelia''s earlier dismissive smirk and suddenly felt a stinging sensation on his checks. Christopher, who he had previously looked down on as a penniless nobody, was now worth seven million dors.


    "You can keep your two million dors, Mr. Hastings," Christopher said.


    "Two million dors wouldn''t even cover thepany''s previous debts,'' he scoffed inwardly.


    As Christopher rose to leave, Harry felt a wave of humiliation wash over him. Christopher, who''d been practically begging for investments just days ago, had the nerve to insult him now.


    His breathing quickened as he mmed his fist on the table, causing coffee to ssh everywhere. This was an insult he couldn''t swallow.


    The following Monday at Hastings Group, Harry followed Owen into his office after a high-level meeting.


    Owen picked up a document from his desk and handed it to Harry. "Take a look. Manypanies have their eyes on these plots ofnd for auction. Which one do you think is the best?"


    Harry adjusted his sses and flipped through the documents in his hand. "If we''re talking about the best location, it''s definitely East Harbor. It''s close to downtown and has excellent green space. But that plot will be in high demand-we can''t snag it for less than 70 million dors."


    "Good." Owen nodded, clearly pleased with his son''s response. "Go on."


    "Apart from that, there''s the West End Ser Field," Harry continued. "I remember there''s an indoor sports arena nearby, which is why this plot has been left undeveloped. The West End is booming now, and I''ve heard the government has ns for the area." "Exactly. That''s why we''re aiming for the West End Ser Field. In the next couple of days, work with the appraiser on the bid. You''ll handle the auction on Friday." Owen patted Harry''s shoulder, showingplete faith in him. "Don''t worry, Dad. I''ll make sure we get thatnd." Harry assured him confidently.


    Friday arrived quickly. The auction was set to take ce at the Sunrise Hotel in the West End. Harry showed up with his secretary and the appraiser in tow. He had spent thest few days preparing thoroughly.


    As Harry entered the venue, several CEOs from small and medium-sized real estatepanies greeted him warmly. "Harry! Look how you''ve grown," one of them eximed. "You''re already capable of representing your father."


    Another chimed in, "Owen is quite a lucky man. He''s got such a fine son in you. Unlike my good-for-nothing kid who can''t help me with anything and only causes trouble."


    Harry smiled modestly in response to their praise. He considered himself the most sessful among his peers born into wealth, confident that he would one day take over Hastings Group.


    As the group''s chatter continued, a striking figure appeared in the doorway. She wore a ck sheath dress, cinched at the waist, with a brown belt. Her hair was pulled back in a sleek, low ponytail. Every step she took oozed purpose and quiet confidence. The moment she entered, all eyes in the room gravitated towards her. There was an unmistakable air of cool defiance about her that demanded attention.


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    The businessmen who had been chatting with Harry instantly shifted their attention to her. "Well, well. Who''s this new bidder? I''ve never seen them before," someone muttered.


    Harry''s face, which had been wearing a polite smile just a second ago, turned sour the instant he spotted Ophelia. ''What is she doing here?'' he thought, his mind racing.


    Seeing Christopher by her side only reminded him of that humiliating incident at the coffee shop. A knot of anger tightened


    in his chest.


    Ophelia breezed past him, taking a seat in the front row, just diagonal from where he stood. The front row was typically reserved for major corporations.


    ''Since when did small fry like her get VIP treatment? Just because she can scrape together seven million dors, she thinks she''s hot stuff, Harry fumed silently. ''Don''t they know where they are? Isn''t she afraid of being kicked out?'' He waited eagerly to see Ophelia make a fool of herself.


    As the auction began and everyone took their seats, surprisingly no one objected to Ophelia''s presence. Harry felt a surge of frustration. "Damn it, what an eyesore," he muttered under his breath. To his annoyance, he couldn''t help but see her every time he looked up. ''How did someone like her even manage to get in here?'' he wondered.


    The first few lots were pre-arranged deals with certainpanies. It was an open secret in the industry, so there was nopetition or inted bidding.


    The uing lots, however, were the ones everyone had their eyes on. Harry had been secretly observing, and he noticed that Ophelia and Christopher hadn''t dared to raise their paddles yet. He believed they were here for the show, not to y.


    0

 Jilted Bride 56

    COMMENT Chapter


    56


    "Next up is Lot 4, the Seabreeze property in East Harbor. The starting bid is 27 million dors, the auctioneer announced.


    Bidding paddles flew up across the room in quick session, a dear sign of the fiercepetition for this prime piece of real estate. "Number 45, 60 million dors," a voice from the crowd called out.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Barely a heartbeat passed before another bidder chimed in, "Number 23, 63 million dors.


    "Number 5, 65 million dors," yet another determined buyer countered.


    The bids continued to climb rapidly. Finally, Gilmore Properties secured the lot for 78 million dors, drawing apuse from the crowd.


    "The West End Ser Field is up next," Harry''s secretary whispered in his ear.


    Harry''s gaze remained fixed in Ophelia''s direction. He was still puzzling over how she had managed to scrape together seven million dors for investment.


    "Mr. Hastings? The West End Ser Field is next." The secretary repeated, a bit louder this time.


    Harry snapped back to attention, taking a deep breath. "Right, I heard you," he replied, refocusing on the task at hand.


    The auctioneer''s voice rang out. "Next up is Lot 5, West End Ser Field. Starting bid is 22 million dors."


    There was a pause, and then the bidding continued. "Number 41, 27 million dors." Someone raised their paddle.


    Another quickly chimed in, "Number 10, 28 million dors."


    Harry confidently raised his paddle. "Number 18, 30 million dors." His bid exuded determination. Several CEOs who knew him well cast admiring nces his way, impressed by his boldness and initiative.


    Harry lifted his chin, feeling proud. This was his first time taking charge, and he was determined not to disappoint his father.


    However, his moment of triumph was short-lived. In the front row, Ophelia raised her paddle. "Number 8, 32 million dors."


    Ophelia spokenguidly, not forgetting to throw a challenging nce back at Harry. Her eyes were filled with undisguised contempt. Harry, who had been riding high just moments ago, couldn''t stand for this. He was determined to win this plot ofnd at all costs. "Number 18, 37 million dors," Harry called out confidently and thought, ''Let''s see her try to outbid me now."


    Ophelia''s expression remained impassive, but from where Harry stood, he could see the slight curl of her lips. "Number 8, 39 million dors," she countered smoothly.


    Ophelia deliberately raised the bid by two million dors, subtly reminding him of the day he''d tried to sign with Christopher and ended up embarrassed.


    This ignited Harry''spetitive spirit. "Number 18, 40 million dors," he called out.


    ""Number 27, 42 million dors. Another bid came.


    This time, Ophelia didn''t raise her paddle. Harry smirked coldly and dered, "Number 18, 44 million dors."


    "Number 8, 44.3 million dors," Ophelia chimed in again.


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    Harry was ready to explode. ''Is she deliberately trying to piss me off? Raising it by just 300 thousand dors? That''s got to be her limit.


    He immediately raised his paddle again. "Number 18, 50 million dors. This matched Hastings Group''s valuation.


    Ophelia turned her head, giving Harry another nce. She chuckled softly and said, "Number 8, 52 million dors."


    As Ophelia finished speaking, she exchanged a nce with Christopher beside her. Their faces were etched with undisguised contempt and mockery.


    Harry felt a lump in his throat, making it hard to breathe.


    While everyone else found Ophelia''s bidding in the front row slightly odd, only Harry knew the truth. She was tantly humiliating him.


    He was about to raise his paddle when the appraiser next to him pushed it down. "Mr. Hastings, we can''t bid any higher. We''re already two million dors over budget."


    The mention of "two million dors" only made Harry''s blood boil. "Who''s the manager here, you or me? What does it matter if we go a little over budget? Hastings Group can afford it Harry raised his paddle. "Number 18, 54 million dors."


    Ophelia casually raised her paddle. "Number 8, 56 million dors." With each of Harry''s bids, she consistently raised the price by two million dors.


    Harry clenched his jaw, raising his paddle once more. "Number 18, 70 million dors." Even at that price for the West End Ser Field plot, the profit margin was paper-thin.


    "Number 8, 72 million dors," Ophelia said.


    The secretary grabbed Harry''s arm, urging, "Mr. Hastings, you can''t bid any higher. They''ve set a trap, and you''re falling right into it. They''re deliberately bidding up." "Indeed, Mr. Hastings," the appraiser chimed in.


    At first, Harry had been caught up in the heat of the moment. But now, even he wasn''t foolish enough to miss what was happening. He recognized Ophelia''s game-she was trying to manipte the situation. Yet, he still believed she was too inexperienced to outmaneuver him.


    Anticipating her continued counter-bids, Harry formted a new strategy. He''d push Ophelia to win the plot at an astronomical price. ''Let''s see how she ns to pay for it,'' he sneered. ''When she can''t afford it, thend will end up with Hastings Group anyway.'' With that thought, Harry raised the paddle again. "Number 18, 73 million dors."


    "Number 8, 75 million dors." Ophelia''s swift response came.


    The bidding war continued, tension mounting with each raise.


    "Number 8, 78 million dors," Ophelia countered.


    "Number 18, 80 million dors." Harry''s eyes narrowed. ''You wanted to y this game, didn''t you? Let''s keep going!


    All eyes turned to Harry in shock while Ophelia merely raised an eyebrow. This time, she didn''t raise her paddle. Instead, she turned to Harry with a sly smile, her lips forming the word "Congrattions".


    ''What does that mean?'' Harry''s spine stiffened. As the gavel fell, his heart sank with it. Why did she stop bidding?''


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    The realization hit Harry like a ton of bricks. The color drained from his face, leaving him looking like he''d seen a ghost ''Did I really just bid 80 million dors for the West End Ser Field? Harry muttered in disbelief. It was even pricier than the Seabreeze property in East Harbor. While the West End Ser Field was sizeable, the construction costs would be astronomical. Plus, the area''s lower consumer spending meant they couldn''t charge city-center prices for the homes. Exceeding the budget by 27 million dors left little room for profit.


    The appraiser had tried in vain to restrain Harry during the bidding. His secretary wore a look of despair, wondering how to exin this to Owen. The gazes from those around them had shifted from initial admiration to barely concealed judgment.


    After the auction ended. Harry remained seated, reluctant to move. "Why... Why didn''t you two stop me?" he asked weakly.


    The appraiser frowned, realizing that Harry, typically known for hisposure, had lost his cool over a young woman''s provocation. It didn''t bode well for the future of Hastings Group.


    "Mr. Hastings, you should think about how you''re going to exin this to Mr. Owen," the secretary reminded him.


    As people gradually entered the scene, they couldn''t help but give Harry a thumbs up, praising him. "Mr. Hastings, you''ve really got guts. You''re a man destined for great things." "Mr. Owen must be so proud to have a son like you," someoneughed.


    Another smiled, "Bravo, Mr. Hastings. Bravo."


    Each word of praise felt like a needle under his skin, but Harry had to swallow his anger and keep hisposure. They took the elevator down.


    In the hotel lobby, Ophelia stepped out from another elevator and walked straight past Harry.


    In an instant, Harry unleashed all his pent-up fury on her. "Ophelia, stop right there!" he barked.


    Harry grabbed Ophelia''s arm abruptly. "You did that on purpose, didn''t you? You provoked me into acquiring thatnd at a quite high price. What''s your game, Ophelia?"


    Ophelia forcefully shook off Harry''s grip and brushed off imaginary dust from her sleeve.


    "Mr. Hastings, what are you talking about?" she replied innocently. "I just made some money in the stock market recently and wanted to invest. I genuinely thought thatnd was promising, but...70 million dors was definitely beyond my budget You''re the one with the real guts, Mr. Hastings."


    Ophelia''s smile was angelic, her wide eyes giving the impression of a guileless young girl.


    Harry''s secretary and the appraiser, watching from the sidelines, couldn''t bear to look. It was clear to them that Harry had acted on impulse and was now taking out his frustration on a young woman. His behavior was truly pathetic.


    COMMENT

 Jilted Bride 57

    Harry''s fists clenched in anger, mirroring Nathan''s trademark scowl. The family resemnce was undeniable.


    Seizing the moment when no one else was around, Harry leaned in, his voice dripping with venom. "Mom was right about you. You''re nothing but a curse. Grandma died the day you were born. Dumping you was the smart move."Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    This was the first time Ophelia had heard these words in either of her lives. The smile faded from her face, reced by a cial stare. Her suspicions were true. She wasn''t switched at birth - she was an abandoned baby, discarded by the Hastings. Even when they''d reimed her yearster, it was just to use her as a pawn in a marriage of convenience. Their eyes didn''t lie. The contempt and disgust they felt for her was as real as it gets.


    Ophelia didn''t believe she deserved to be thrown away or left to die. She quickly regained herposure, her smile never faltering.


    "You''d better keep your distance from now on," she said sweetly, or you might find yourself in deep trouble. Oh, and congrattions! Dropping over 70 million dors on a piece ofnd - that''s certainly Hastings Group style. And here I thought you could only afford a measly two million dors."


    "You..." Harry red at her, his face turning red with anger.


    Ophelia''s smile grew even brighter as she watched Harry''s frustration. She turned and walked away with effortless grace.


    Christopher, following close behind, couldn''t resist twisting the knife. "Congrattions, Mr. Hastings." The seemingly polite phrase stung Harry''s ears like an insult.


    Now Christopher finally understood why Ophelia held such deep animosity towards the Hastings family. It was hard to believe that someone could willingly abandon their own flesh and blood. No doubt, Hastings Group''s business practices were equally ruthless and devoid of humanity. Christopher felt grateful that he had met Ophelia. Otherwise, he might have, ended up working for the Hastings family.


    Ophelia slipped into the car, her face still a mask of indifference. But her tightly clenched fists betrayed her true emotions. She couldn''t help but scoff at how foolish she was in her previous life. She had actually believed she was switched at birth. "Miss Spencer, where would you like to go? I can drive you," Christopher asked.


    "No need. Just drop me off at the next intersection," Ophelia replied with a shake of her head. She wanted to walk alone for a while.


    Christopher furrowed his brow, concern evident in his voice. "It''s not easy to get a cab around here. If you want to check out the area, I''d be happy to show you around. Then I could drop you off wherever you need to go next." Ophelia shot Christopher a sidelong nce. "Have you finished all your work? Or perhaps you''ve already taken care of your sick mother? You seem to have a lot of free time on your hands."


    Christopher''s words caught in his throat. He wisely chose to stay quiet. Despite her youthful appearance, there was something about Ophelia that exuded an intangible pressure. "Pull over," Opheliamanded.


    Without hesitation, Christopher pulled over, and Ophelia got out of the car.


    Christopher opened his mouth to speak but thought better of it, not wanting to risk another verbalshing. ncing around, he noticed a few taxis passing by and decided against saying anything more, so he simply drove away. Fall had arrived, and a cool breeze blew in from the sea. Ophelia walked slowly along the shore, heading towards the slums. As she passed a beachfront caf¨¦, an abruptmotion erupted from beneath the sun umbres. Chapter 57


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    "I''m sorry! It was an ident..." A janitor in her forties kept bowing her head in apology.


    Avishly dressed woman, still unsatisfied, grabbed the janitor and insisted she polish her shoes.


    The janitor wiped the shoes, enduring disapproving looks from onlookers.


    "You low-ss scum from the slums should stay in your filthy gutters where you belong. How dare you show your face out here?" the woman sneered.


    The moment the word "slums" was uttered, the surrounding patrons'' gazes turned discriminatory. The prejudice in the air was palpable, more tant than any racial bias.


    "I heard those people carry all sorts of nasty bugs," a man at a nearby table muttered, loud enough for others to hear.


    "Yeah, those lowlifes should be locked up there. Keep them out of the city center," another added.


    The chatter continued, growing more venomous with each passing moment.


    The tables nearest to the janitor quickly called for their checks, eager to leave. Even the waiter approached with a look of disgust, covering his nose and mouth as if the janitor were a pile of garbage. Head bowed, the janitor silently continued cleaning the woman''s shoes, seemingly ustomed to such treatment. Only after offering a series of groveling apologies did she dare to leave. Ophelia watched this scene unfold, a knot forming in her stomach. She couldn''t help but wonder when "slum" and "lowlife" became synonymous.


    On one side of the West End coast stood luxurious beachfront vis and towering skyscrapers. Yet just beyond the small hilly a slum cobbled together from shipping containers and tattered cloth. They were living in the same city, but those in the slums were considered inferior. However, prejudice ran deep, an immovable force that seemed to resist all efforts at change.


    Ophelia knew that even if she stepped in to help now, it would only be a mere band-aid on a gaping wound. The root of the problemy deep,


    She continued her stroll along the shoreline, watching as the crisp ocean breeze gave way to a pungent odor. The glittering towers receded behind her.


    Beyond a crumbling wall, the sea stretched out, its waves carrying a mosaic of stic waste to the shore. A child in tattered clothes trailed behind an elderly person, both picking up discarded bottles. This area was home to many who couldn''t work - the elderly, the weak, the sick, and the disabled. They survived by scavenging trash.


    Some young, able-bodied residents found work outside the slums, but only in the lowest-paying jobs. They earned half of what others made, barely scraping by, all because they lived in the slums.


    The words "West End Slums" on their ID cards might as well have been a scarlet letter, marking them as second-ss citizens.


    Suddenly, two young men snatched a bag of stic bottles from an olddy who had just collected them.


    A shirtless youth, his skin leathered by the sun and his hair a thatch of sun-bleached straw, swaggered over. "Hand it over," he growled. "Did you pay your dues this month?"


    The child next to the olddy burst into terrified sobs. "Bad guy! Give back the bottle! Give it back to Grandma!" the little one wailed.


    "I ain''t giving it back. What are you gonna do about it, huh?" the thug sneered, shoving the child. The old woman quickly shielded the youngster, silently enduring the abuse.


    "Now get out there and grab me some more, the bully barked. "Consider it your ''rent'' for the month."


    When the old woman didn''t move, he stepped forward and pushed her. "Damn it, did you hear me? Move it!"


    Suddenly, a water-filled bottle spun through the air, smacking the thug square in the head. "Ugh!" he cried out, crumpling to the ground, dazed.


    Ophelia strode over, positioning herself protectively in front of the old woman and child.


    The old woman tried to pull her back, whispering urgently, "Youngdy, you''d better leave now. Don''te to ces like this..." She hesitated, afraid her dirty hands might soil Ophelia''s clothes, and could only withdraw her hand while softly warning her. By now, the thug had already scrambled to his feet, shaking off the blow. His eyes darted around, finallynding on Ophelia, who stuck out like a sore thumb in her posh clothes.


    "Damn, were you the one who hit me?" he roared. "Shit, you got a death wish or something,ing to the slums like this?" The thug despised these city people. He let out a sharp whistle, summoning two more men from a nearby shack.


    Ophelia sized up the four men coolly. They were all scrawny and sallow-faced, with skin darkened by the sun. She didn''t recognize them. They must be new to this area,'' she thought.


    The first thug, now steady on his feet, sneered at her, "Think you can just waltz in here and y hero? I don''t care if you''re a girl. I''ll knock you t. You''re askin'' for it,ing to the slums like this."


    It was a ce everyone else avoided, and he couldn''t believe a young woman like Ophelia had dared toe here. As he finished speaking, the three men behind the thug charged forward.

 Jilted Bride 58

    The thug had pegged Ophelia as just another pretty face all looks, no fight. But to his shock, before they could eveny a finger on her, she''d sent them flying with swift kicks.


    Her long pleated skirt swept up dust from the ground as she moved. In the blink of an eye, the thug watched his three men copse, clutching their chests and wailing in pain. "Y-you... You''re asking for trouble!" he stammered, trying to sound threatening but stumbling backward in fear. He shot a panicked nce at his fallenckeys, and all four scrambled away as fast as they could.


    Ophelia bent down to help the old woman gather her scattered stic bottles. As she looked at the elderly woman and the child, her thoughts drifted to her grandmother. She remembered the twenty years she''d spent feeling abandoned, living with that old woman who, despite sharing no blood ties, had be her family.


    "Thank you, youngdy," the old woman said, her face etched with worry. "But you should leave now. These thugs will surely return with their boss. We''re used to this, but you shouldn''t get caught up in our troubles."


    "Used to it?" Ophelia frowned. It seemed this was a daily urrence.


    The old woman gazed down at the sniffling child, and her eyes tired and resigned. "These days, folks shy away from honest work, worried they''ll catch k. So the young punks swipe what we manage to scrounge up. That''s just how things are now. We''ve learned to live with it."


    A deep voice cut through the tension. "Who''s got the balls to cause trouble in my ce?"Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Momentster, the gang returned, led by a burly man swaggering toward them.


    "Felix, that''s her." One of the thugs pointed out


    Felix Ashby, the leader, was ready to teach Ophelia a lesson she''d never forget. He aggressively struck a nearby shipping container with his club, causing the child to burst into tears again. The old woman clutched the kid, both cowering in fear.


    Ophelia sighed, turning to face the man''s menacing re head-on.


    Felix was momentarily dazed. He staggered back, his eyes wide with disbelief as if he''d seen a ghost.


    His fierce demeanor crumbled instantly. "O-Ophelia?" He choked out, blinking rapidly and swallowing hard. ''How the hell has she shown up here?'' he thought. She looked different from the kid he remembered, but those piercing, wolf-like eyes were unmistakable. The thugs who had just been beaten expected Felix to immediately seek revenge. But the expression on his face told a different story.


    "Felix, it was her. You know this chick?" one of them asked.


    Felix instantly dropped the club he was holding and smacked hisckey hard on the back of the head. "Watch your mouth, you bastard. Who are you calling ''chick? Show some respect."


    in the face.


    Ophelia''s cool gaze settled on Felix, who not only had the build of a bull but even resembled one in Despite his imposing stature - he easily stood a foot taller than Ophelia - Felix now looked like a deer caught in headlights. "Look, Ophelia," he stammered, "my boys were just fooling around. I''ll teach them a lesson. It''s nothing, really. I''ll just-"


    "Not so fast." Ophelia''s icy voice cut through the air.


    A shiver ran down Felix''s spine. He was so intimidated that he nearly dropped to his knees on the spot, "Ophelia, I... I''m


    sorry''


    His gang members were shocked. This wasn''t the Felix they knew


    &


    59%


    "Felix, who is she?" the thug asked, confused. To him, Ophelia just looked like some skilled girl, and Felix could knock her out with one punch. So, there should be no reason to sweat.


    "Shut up. Felix swallowed hard. "She''s my boss." Even now, he could still feel the phantom pain from when she had snapped his arm like a twig years ago.


    His body was drenched in cold sweat, and he knew running was futile. Ophelia was the undisputed demon queen of the slums. No one could beat her in a fight, no one could outrun her, and she was always three steps ahead. Crossing her was a one-way ticket to a world of hurt.


    "Since when did you start collecting money in the slums?" Ophelia''s voice was ice-cold, barely containing the rage burning in her chest. She was itching to throw a punch. She couldn''t fathom why these guys, with all their supposed skills, were preying on their own instead of making an honest buck elsewhere.


    Felix cowered, his voice trembling. "Ophelia, I''m... I''m really sorry. It won''t happen again, I swear."


    "Here''s what you''re gonna do," Ophelia growled. "Take your goons and return every damn penny and trinket you''ve squeezed out of these people."


    "Why the hell should we?" the thug immediately protested.


    Ophelia''s piercing gaze locked onto him. "You''re asking me why?"


    "We... We earned it fair and square," the thug insisted, though his voice wavered.


    "Fine, Ophelia said, pulling out the few bills she had left in her purse. "If you can beat me in a fair fight, this money is yours."


    The thug''s eyes lit up at the sight of cash. Ophelia tossed the bills into the air, and he lunged forward, reaching out to grab


    them.


    Just as his fingers grazed the edge of a bill, a searing pain exploded in his chest. He flew backward like a kite with its string cut, mming hard against a shipping container.


    "Ugh..." The thug coughed, clutching his chest. Suddenly, he spat out a mouthful of blood, terrifying him into thinking he was about to die.


    The other three thugs, who had each tasted one of Ophelia''s kicks earlier, shot him sympathetic looks. He''d been the only one who hadn''t been beaten up before, and now he understood just how brutal this woman''s kicks could be and why they hesitated to make another move.


    Ophelia caught the fluttering bills mid-air, her voice as sharp as ice. "So, your only talent is bullying the weak?"


    The thug was too terrified to speak, fearing for his life. Tears streamed down his face as he babbled, "We''ll give it all back. I swear! I don''t want to die!"


    Ophelia turned her gaze to Felix. "Looks like your arm I broke has healed nicely?"


    At her words, Felix instinctively clutched his left arm with his right hand, stumbling backward.


    The three men behind him gaped in shock. They finally realized why Felix was so afraid of this woman. She''d taught him a harsh lesson before.


    "I told you years ago not to bully people from the slums. Have you forgotten all this time?" Ophelia''s voice was cold. Felix gritted his teeth. "Ophelia, it''s not that I don''t want to work outside. But everyone looked down on us. They pay


    us the


    least for the hardest jobs. They push us around, and we can''t fight back. Even the cops are biased against us."


    159%0


    go..."


    He mmed his fist into the ground with such force that the earth seemed to tremble. "We''re treated like dirt wherever we


    Ophelia retorted, "That''s no excuse to bully your own people. Just because you can''t make it out there, youe back to the slums to push us around? Don''t forget, Felix. Without the elders here in the slums, you''d have frozen to death on the streets long ago." "I know that," Felix replied, his eyes reddening as he sniffled. "Maybe I should have died out there. Why are we stuck being slum dwellers, Ophelia? Why are we always treated as lower-ss? You''ve made it on the outside. Why don''t you find us some jobs?" Ophelia fell silent. As her gaze swept over Felix and the gaunt figures behind him, realization hit her - she had no ce to preach.


    The slums stretched before her, a deste wastnd. Suddenly, Eric''s words echoed in her mind.

 Jilted Bride 59

    "Elia," Eric said gently, "your shoulders aren''t that broad. Don''t try to carry the weight of the world. There are too many people in the slums for you to help everyone."


    Ophelia could help one or two people find jobs, but not all of them. Her mind raced through the grim scenarios she''d


    witnessed sick people withering away because they couldn''t afford medical care, newborns sumbing to the bitter cold, and angry young men whose only problem-solving tool was their fists.


    The slums were home to hundreds. It was impossible for her to take care of everyone. She wasn''t a savior. She couldn''t help them all.


    Felix fell silent for a moment, unable to meet Ophelia''s gaze. He could only ask hisckeys to go door-to-door, returning the


    money.


    Ophelia left what cash she had with the old woman and the girl. As she left the slums, she had already pushed Harry''s words to the back of her mind.


    Anyway, Ophelia had no intention of letting the Hastings family off in this life.


    Meanwhile, at the top floor of Hastings Group, Harry had just walked in with his secretary and appraiser when he saw Owen beaming at them.


    Owen strode forward, pping Harry on the shoulder. "Well done, Harry. You''ve done an excellent job this time."


    The auction had barely ended when Owen received numerous congrattory calls about securing the West End Ser Field property. He couldn''t help but feel a surge of pride. His eldest son had stepped up to the te and hit a home run on his first solo project. It seemed he could entrust thepany to Harry in the future.


    However, noticing Harry''s uneasy expression, Owen nced at the secretary and appraiser. All three wore grim faces.


    His hand slipped from Harry''s shoulder as a sense of foreboding crept in. "What was the final bid?" Owen asked, the earlier celebratory phone calls now taking on a sinister tone. Something had clearly gone wrong.


    Gone was the doting father. "Speak," Owen demanded, his voice sharp as steel.


    Harry swallowed hard. "80 million dors..."


    "What?" Owen doubted his ears. ''80 million dors?''


    The solemn faces before him confirmed this was no joke. Blood rushed to Owen''s head, his vision swimming as he struggled to stay upright. Seeing this, Harry quickly moved to support Owen.


    Owen, his breathing in ragged gasps, growled, "How the hell did you let this happen?" His fury was aimed squarely at his two subordinates.


    The secretary and the appraiser were both frustrated beyond words. It was not like they had forced Harry to keep raising the bid. They''d had enough of Hastings Group''s constant bullying, and now they were being med for this mess, too. It was too much.


    The appraiser spoke up, his wordsced with resentment. "Mr. Owen, it was your son who got into a bidding war. He kept raising the bid out of spite. We tried to stop him, but he wouldn''t listen. The paddle was in his hands. He was in charge, right?"


    59%1


    His unspoken message was clear. Harry had acted on impulse, so they couldn''t be med. If they had protested too loudly, everyone around them would have found out.


    Owen clutched his chest, ring at Harry.


    "Dad, please don''t be angry," Harry pleaded. "This... This is all because of Ophelia. She snuck into the auction someho kept outbidding me. That''s why I..." He trailed off, unable to finish his excuse for his rash behavior. and


    Owen wanted nothing more than to p him right then and there, but he had to maintain some semnce of respect in front of his subordinates. If they''d been at home, he would have smacked him without hesitation. "Hold up," Owen said, his brow furrowing. "Who did you say was involved?"


    "O-Ophelia," Harry mumbled.


    "Ophelia?" Owen''s frown deepened. Without the reminder, he''d almost forgotten he had such a daughter. "Gosh, Harry. When did you be as brainless as your brother? Huh? You should have just let her have it. It''s not like she could afford it anyway. And even if she did buy it, it''d still be Hastings property. Why are you getting worked up over her?"


    Harry stood there, thoroughly dressed down and stripped of any remaining dignity. He didn''t dare open his mouth. He just hung his head like a guilty schoolboy.


    "After I bid above the asking price, neither of them tried to stop me." Harry tried to shift the me, and his usuallyposed imagepletely shattered.


    The scene unfolding left both the secretary and the appraiser speechless. They realized that if Hastings Group were to fall into Harry''s hands in the future, bankruptcy wouldn''t be far behind. They''d be better off finding new employment while they still could.


    The secretary spoke up. "Mr. Harry, are you forgetting something? You said, and I quote, ''I''m the manager, so you have to listen to me,'' and ''It''s not like Hastings Group can''t afford this''. Don''t you remember?"


    The appraiser chimed in, "I''m sorry, Mr. Owen, but I can no longer fulfill my role as an appraiser for Hastings Group. I''ll send my resignation letter to your email shortly."


    "Mr. Harry, you''ll be receiving my resignation letter as well," the secretary added firmly.


    The two men bowed slightly and left the office, not even giving Owen a chance to ask them to stay.


    "Dad, see?" Harry said. "They know they messed up. Too ashamed to stay here anymore..."


    "Shut your mouth!" Owen snapped, grabbing a document off his desk and hurling it at Harry. He copsed into his chair, pinching the bridge of his nose as he racked his brain for a solution. The phone on his desk kept buzzing, no doubt a flood of sarcastic well-wishers. For a man like Owen, who prided himself on his reputation, bing theughingstock of Denex was a bitter pill to swallow. The thought made his blood boil.


    ''Eighty million dors for a piece ofnd in the West End?'' Owen sighed inwardly. ''Have he lost his mind?''


    "You," he barked at Harry, "contact Ophelia. Find out whichpany she was representing. We''re willing to offer them 77 million dors."


    "Dad... You want me to beg her?" Harry asked incredulously.


    Owen continued, his tone a mix of usation and bargaining, "You choose - a seven-million-dor loss or a 27-million-dor loss. I''m not even asking you to contact her directly, just thepany she''s with."


    Harry reluctantly agreed, though inwardly, he bristled at the thought of reaching out to Ophelia. He was determined to find? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    a way to resolve this on his own.


    2


    59%


    After returning from the slums, Ophelia had holed herself up in Keh''s study, delving into the history of the impoverished area.


    She pondered over thend remation project from years ago wondering what materials they had used that could have transformed into such toxic substances and how it had rendered the area undevelopable for so long.


    If Ophelia could solve this puzzle, perhaps the slums could be redeveloped. Maybe that would address the root of the problems guing the area.


    Suddenly, her phone chimed, interrupting her thoughts. Ophelia yawned, her vision momentarily blurring. ncing at her phone, she realized it was past midnight.


    Ophelia still felt awkward using this new phone. To put it dramatically, it felt like holding a brick. Ever since Keh had tossed her old phone, he''d reced it with one covered in green diamonds.


    The gaudy, green-studded device made her question Keh''s taste countless times. To make matters worse, it was a custom model with no avable cases. Using it was truly ufortable.


    A message from Sharon popped up: [Elia, don''t forget you promised to visit the set tomorrow for our first day of shooting.]


    Ophelia had nearly forgotten about her weekend obligations. Saturday loomed, and the thought of asking Keh for time off sent a shiver down her spine. His methods always kept her on edge.


    As Ophelia continued browsing web pages on herputer, she unknowingly drifted off to sleep, leaning back in herfortable chair, her delicate hand still resting on the mouse.


    She fell into a deep slumber, especially after catching a whiff of a familiar, cool scent that made her sleep even more soundly.

 Jilted Bride 60

    3


    59%


    As dawn broke, Ophelia stirred from her slumber, finding herself nestled in a plush bed. However, any attempt to move proved futile. Keh''s muscr arm was wrapped around her waist like a vise, as if she might disappear if he loosened his grip.


    It was always the same when they shared a bed. He treated her like a cherished teddy bear, and the slightest movement only made him hold on tighter.


    Resigned to her fate, Ophelia remained perfectly still, waiting for him to wake up on his own terms.


    "Why were you sleeping in the studyst night, hmm?" Keh''s voice was husky with sleep as he gently turned her head towards him, hisrge hand tousling her messy hair.


    "I was looking up some information," Ophelia replied, already ustomed to his pet-like caresses. "When did you get back?"


    They chatted idly for a while, discussing this and that as the morning slowly unfolded.


    Suddenly, Ophelia casually mentioned. "Oh, by the way, I''m visiting the film set this afternoon. Want toe along?" ''Don''te, please don''te,'' she silently pleaded, while maintaining an innocent smile on her face.


    Keh frowned. ''Another outing on the weekend? Am I just invisible to her?"


    Ophelia got up to freshen up, while Kehy back with his hands behind his head, his eyes never leaving her. "If you don''t want toe, you can wait for me at home. I won''t be long," she said.


    After washing up, her face looked pure and clean. But in front of Keh, she couldn''t hide her inner thought.


    Keh pulled her into his arms. "So, how long will you be gone?"


    "It won''t take long," Ophelia said.


    "Oh really? Two hours?" Keh''s striking features reflected in her pupils, his longshes softening the mischievous glint in his eyes.


    "Two hours isn''t nearly enough," Ophelia mumbled.


    Keh raised an eyebrow. "I''lle along. Not counting travel time, you get two hours. Deal?"


    Something didn''t add up. Keh''s sudden generosity felt off. Last time, he''d barely given her ten minutes, and now he was offering two whole hours. It smelled like a trap. Even if he was generous enough to offer it, she wasn''t about to fall for it. "Actually, one hour should be plenty." Ophelia backpedaled.


    "How could one hour be enough..." Keh murmured, his voice low and persuasive.


    Ophelia''s breath caught in her throat. ''So that''s what he thinks isn''t enough. She saw right through his implications. Two hours would be the end of her. "Keh, my back''s killing me," she groaned.


    Keh chuckled softly, "I told you, that excuse won''t work anymore. I''m being pretty damn generous here."


    Ophelia fought the urge to roll her eyes. ''What a smooth-talking con artist,'' she thought. ''He''s the one getting all the benefits, yet he has the nerve to pat himself on the back for his so-called generosity. What a jerk.''


    On the set of Legacy of the Paramour, cameras were ready to roll.


    Chapter 60 59%


    This gripping period drama told about the rise of Gwen dwell, an overlooked royal consort who wed her way to the top. Despite facing endless schemes and scorn, she outmaneuvered her rivals to be Empress and, eventually, the power behind the throne. It was a rollercoaster of pce intrigue, with a kickass leadingdy at its heart.


    Sharon, with her piercing gaze and world-weary smirk, was cast as Josephine a haughty and domineering consort from a prestigious family background.


    Before entering the pce, she was known for her straightforward nature and shared a close bond with the female lead. They entered royal service together, and initially, she trusted the female lead implicitly. However, everything changed when she drank a soup prepared by her friend, resulting in the loss of her unborn child.


    This incident transformed herpletely. Josephine became consumed by bitterness over the event, and was responsible for much of the female lead''s suffering in the early stages of the story. Even when the female lead gained the Emperor''s favor, she continued to suppress her former friend relentlessly.


    Josephine''s character, while responsible for many viinous acts, was ultimately a tragic figure. Manipted by the person she loved most, she eventually met a miserable end.


    Ophelia''s primary motivation for encouraging Sharon to ept this role was its potential to be a ssic. The series was destined to be a hit, catapulting director William Martin to fame.


    Ophelia reasoned that if Sharon could establish a working rtionship with William through this project, it would open doors to many high-quality productions in the future.


    The film set buzzed with activity on the first day of shooting. The opening scene was a dramatic confrontation. Josephine, having just learned of her miscarriage, stormed off to confront the lead character, Gwen.


    In the makeup trailer, stylists and makeup artists worked carefully on Sharon''s appearance. Today''s look wasn''t meant to be morous. Instead, they aimed to capture the weak, vulnerable state of a woman who had recently miscarried.


    Sharon sat quietly, reviewing her script. Around unfamiliar faces, she tended to be reserved. Her strikingly beautiful features, devoid of expression, often gave the impression she was scowling-though this wasn''t the case.


    Once her styling wasplete, Sharon retrieved her phone from her assistant and nced at it. ''Where is Elia?'' she wondered. ''She should be here by now.


    "Ms. Campbell, let''s run through the scene," Tracy called, the lead actress'' assistant.


    It was only upon arriving on set that Sharon learned the original lead actress had been reced at thest minute.


    Sharon entered the new lead actress'' dressing room, curious about the woman she''d heard had some industry connections. The young actress was dressed in in, dusty costume clothes with minimal headpieces, perfectly matching the character description in the script.


    As Sharon looked at her, a spark of recognition flickered. This was Emily, the lead from another film that had premiered around the same time as one of Sharon''s recent projects. She recalled that Emily had also modeled for Brock in the final round of a designerpetition. Landing lead roles right out of the gate spoke volumes about the resources backing her


    career.


    Despite this being their first coboration, Sharon felt rather indifferent towards Emily.


    "Ms. Campbell," Emily said, her tone professional, "we have a pping sceneing up. I want you to really go for it-no holding back. It''s our first scene together, so we need to give it our all." Sharon simply nodded. "Of course. I''ll make sure to control the force, but I''ll make it look authentic."


    They quickly ran through their lines before the cameras started rolling.


    Sharon stormed into the princess'' bedroom, instantly in character. Her eyes welled up with tears as a look of pure hatred


    14,49


    IVIDIT, NOV II


    @59%


    spread across her face. Her-paleplexion instantly conveyed the devastating grief of a mother who had lost her child.


    "Gwen, you bitch!" she spat out, her voice trembling with rage. "How could you be so heartless? You poisoned me and killed my unborn child!"


    As Sharon spat out her lines, tears streamed down her cheeks. At this moment, she had lost both her sister and her baby. She hated Gwen for causing her baby''s death but even more for her betrayal.


    Emily, ying Gwen, wept uncontrobly, shaking her head in desperate denial. Just as she tried to exin, Sharon''s hand came flying towards her face.


    In reality, Sharon pulled her p, her fingers barely grazing Emily''s cheek. At this camera angle, there was no need for actual


    contact.


    Emily stumbled backward from the p, falling to the ground.


    "Cut!" the director called out, pleased with the take.


    Suddenly, Tracy rushed forward. "Ms. Campbell, how could you actually hit her? Emily has another sceneing up. If you''ve swollen her face, how can we shoot the next scene?"


    Emily kept her head down, her hand covering her cheek. "It''s fine. Ms. Campbell was just being professional."


    Emily didn''t mention that she had requested the real p. When she finally removed her hand, five distinct red marks were visible on her face.


    Sharon froze. She was certain she hadn''t used much force, so it shouldn''t have left such noticeable marks.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    "Oh no, Sharon! Why did you hit her so hard?" Nancy, the assistant director, looked at Emily with concern. "Quick, take her to get treated. Sharon, have you forgotten how to act after being away from set for so long? This angle doesn''t require a real p."


    0

 Jilted Bride 61

    Sharon nced at Emily, who showed no intention of defending her. Emily''s tear-streaked makeup made her look utterly pitiful.


    Meanwhile, Sharon found herselfbeled as unprofessional and rusty from her long absence from acting. It dawned on Sharon that she had fallen right into Emily''s trap.


    The crew members, seemingly unfazed by such drama, cast sympathetic looks towards Emily.


    They figured Sharon, riding high on her recent box office sess, surely couldn''t stand ying second fiddle to some fresh face.


    In her dressing room, Emily studied her reflection, fingertips tracing the red imprint on her cheek. A smirk tugged at her lips. "Did you get the shots?" she asked, eyes never leaving the mirror.


    Tracy nodded. "Don''t worry, Emily. They''re already on Twitter. Being a diva during rehearsals and now physically attacking the lead actress on set? Let''s see her try to salvage her reputation after this."


    Emily smirked. She couldn''t believe Sharon had the nerve to challenge her. The Valentine''s Day release would have been a smash hit if not for her, she thought bitterly. Instead, it had limped to a measly 1.5 million dors opening. Plus, Sharon had hogged the limelight in On a Snowy Day, relegating Emily to little more than background scenery. The inte had torn her to shreds.


    Now it was her time for some payback.


    "Alright, hurry up and wipe this stuff off my hand," Emily said, holding out her palm. It was smeared with a carefully prepared red dye, its not-quite-red hue looking remarkably like real blood.


    As Tracy cleaned her hand, Emily admired the fake p mark on her face. She felt quite clever. "Buy a few trending topics," she instructed. "Let it simmer on social media for a bit. In about an hour, we''ll release a statement to clear things up. We''ll say something like ''Ms. Campbell is actually a very professional actor."


    Due to this staged incident, Emily''s scenes for the day were postponed.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Meanwhile, online discussions about Sharon''s alleged bad attitude and diva behavior were heating up.


    Online reactions poured in, with one usermenting: [There''s a reason she''s not famous.]


    Another user angrily chimed in: [She''s already acting like a diva the moment she gets a taste of fame. I can''t believe Sharon''s this type of person.]


    A disappointed fan wrote: [I just started following her, and now I''m about to unfollow.]


    One observant user noticed something concerning: [Look at the handprint on Emily''s face! That must have been one hell of a p. Is Sharon jealous that Emily got the lead role?]


    A female user spected: [She must be bitter about losing the part. That''s probably why she''s being so nasty on set. I have to say, though, that Emily is a great actress. It''s just unfortunate she got caught up in this mess.]


    One particrly harshment read: [I''ve never liked Sharon. She looks like a man-eater. Who knows how many guys she''s slept with to get ahead?]


    Sharon''s PR team scrambled to delete the negative posts, but Emily''s money hadn''t gone to waste. The inte was already abuzz with spection, and many users had been swayed by the rumors.


    ***


    59%7


    As the scene ended, Sharon''s assistant, Feona, rushed over with a phone. "Sharon, they''re tearing you apart online," she said, his voice tight with worry.


    Seeing the overwhelming tide of public opinion against her, Sharon finally realized she''d been yed. In the cutthroat world of showbiz, money talked, and a small-time actress like her was no match for the powers that be. She cast a cool nce at Emily, who sat under a beach umbre, face mask on, clearly enjoying the spectacle. During the break, all the other actors flocked to Emily, showering her with attention while deliberately isting Sharon. Left without even a ce to rest, Sharon found herself standing in the scorching sun, taking small sips of water.


    The assistant wanted to hold an umbre for her, but Sharon stopped them. If someone caught that on camera, it would just confirm the rumors of her being a diva. The inte would cook up various kinds of stories.


    Sharon had been hoping Ophelia might visit the set, but now she didn''t want her toe. Seeing her like this might only invite contempt and eye-rolling.


    Sharon desperately hoped Ophelia would forget. ''Don''te, please don''te,'' she thought. After all, she only had one more scene to shoot today.


    Outside the film studio, in an understated Maybach, Keh nced at the time. "You have twenty minutes left."


    Ophelia took a deep breath and turned to Keh, her demeanor shifting instantly to that of a lovely cat. She nted a soft kiss on his cheek. "Can''t you give me another twenty minutes? I''ve been keeping youpany this whole time," she coaxed. "Show me you mean it," Keh said, his eyes twinkling with amusement despite his deliberately aloof demeanor. He absently toyed with the ring on his pinky finger.


    Ophelia leaned forward, about to steal another kiss when her phone chimed with a notification. She immediately pulled back, ncing at Twitter. ''Perfect,'' she thought. Emily had tweeted: [Ms. Campbell is the epitome of professionalism. Please don''t hold anything against her.]


    "Never mind," Ophelia muttered. Twenty minutes had been enough for her to handle the situation. She pushed open the car door and stepped out, oblivious to Keh inside, whose expression had instantly turned cold. The atmosphere in the car plummeted to freezing in a heartbeat. "Mr. Sinir, I''m stepping out for a smoke," the driver said, scrambling out of the car. He didn''t dare linger a second longer, fearing he might get caught in the crossfire.


    Keh slumped back, propping his forehead in his hand. His gaze could have burned holes through steel, radiating frustration and barely contained fury.


    Sharon''s final scene for the day was scheduled to be shot alongside others due to simr makeup and costumes. The scene depicted Josephine''s fall from grace. Her father and eldest brother were publicly executed, her vengeful plot against Gwen culminating in the death of Gwen''s child, and finally, her banishment by the Emperor himself.


    As the cameras rolled, Josephine walked the long, lonely road to exile, her mind a whirlwind of memories and regrets. The scene included a confrontation with a former rival, a concubine, who hade to gloat over Josephine''s downfall.


    This particr scene included a p to the face, which was why it had been saved forst. The close-up shot required real contact, with no opportunity to fake the p.


    The actress ying the rival approached Sharon. Despite her significantly higher status in the industry, she addressed Sharon directly. "Listen, Sharon. I know you''re a dedicated professional, and so am I. I need to let you know that I''ll have to 14:49 Mon, Nov 11 W W XI.


    p you for real in this scene. I wanted to give you a heads up."


    Sharon responded with a simple nod.


    "Action!" the director called out, and the scene sprang to life. A lone woman walked down a street bordered by the imposing walls of the Pce. Two guards trailed behind her, their presence a stark contrast to her dejected demeanor.


    asionally, she lifted her gaze to watch birds soaring across the sky. Her mind drifted back to when she first met the prince as a young girl. He was dashing and elegant, and she was mischievous and willful. Yet he doted on her, promising that if he ever became emperor, she would be his one and only queen. But he broke that promise.


    One night, he came to her, holding her close as he exined theplexities of his situation. He swore to make her the queen, vowing she would never face a moment of hardship.


    When they had their first child, he dered that if it was a boy, he''d be named crown prince. If a girl, she''d be the noblest princess in thend.


    Tragically, they lost the baby. Since then, she had never conceived again.


    All of this, she knew, was orchestrated by the Emperor himself. Yet she couldn''t bring herself to hate him. She med those who had bewitched him. So she took her revenge, killing Gwen''s child. But she had also thoroughly angered the Emperor. The man who once rode horses with her had now banished her, never to be seen again.


    The woman took a deep breath, wiping away her tears with a smile.


    "Cut!" the director called. "Perfect take. Let''s move on."


    Next up was the scene with Kimberly Wace. Kimberly yed Irene, a neglected woman who had been poisoned by Josephine in the past. Now unable to bear children, she longed to kill Josephine.


    "Why are you staring at me like that?" Sharon, in character as Josephine,ughed. "If you''ve got the guts, why don''t you just kill me?" She captured Josephine''s innate pride, challenging Irene with a provocative re. Irene raised her hand and pped Josephine hard across the face.


    Sharon''s ears rang from the impact. Her cheek stung fiercely, and she tasted blood where her teeth had cut into her cheek. Despite the pain, she remained fully immersed in her character''s despair and bitterness. However, Kimberly shook her head slightly. "I''m sorry, director," she said. "I couldn''t quite find the right feeling just now. My reaction wasn''t what it should have been. That''s on me. Could we try that take again?"

 Jilted Bride 62

    As a seasoned actor, Kimberlymanded respect from everyone on set. They assumed she might have deeper insights. into the performance, so no one objected.


    "Alright, let''s do another take," the director, William, agreed.


    Emily, watching from her cool spot on the sidelines, felt a surge of satisfaction seeing Sharon get pped. Kimberly was Sophia''s friend, after all, so that p was surely meant to avenge her. The second take started directly with the p.


    Kimberly red fiercely at Sharon, a flicker of smugness passing through her eyes. It was hard to tell whether this was part of her character or something more personal.


    Just as she was about to bring her palm down, a figure darted out from the crowd, firmly catching her hand mid-air.


    The sudden appearance of a girl in modern clothes caught everyone off guard, leaving the crew momentarily stunned. Emily, who had beenfortably lounging in her rocking chair, eagerly anticipating Sharon''s beating, suddenly furrowed her brow. "Who dares to interfere? This displeased her greatly.


    But when she recognized who it was, her heart leaped into her throat. ''Ophelia? Why her again?"


    Lately, the mere thought of running into Ophelia sent chills down her spine. Trouble seemed to cling to that woman like a shadow. Her heart raced. She''d had enough of the drama and quickly retreated to her dressing room. William and crew members stood up, bewildered. "Who''s this? Some tourists who wandered onto our set?"


    Sharon was stunned by Ophelia''s bold move. Her usually calm eyes sparkled like starlight until the director''s sharp question snapped her back to reality. "She''s... She''s my friend," Sharon stammered. "She came to visit the set "Visitor or not, she can''t disrupt our filming, William grumbled.


    Ophelia released Kimberly''s hand, her icy gaze carrying a clear warning. Kimberly suddenly felt guilty and avoided eye


    contact


    "I apologize for the interruption," Ophelia said smoothly. Tve brought some snacks and drinks for everyone. Director, could we take a short break? Sharon''s face is swollen, and I''m not sure the footage will turn out well." Right on cue,


    Sharon''s assistant swooped in, armed with an assortment of snacks and drinks for the crew.


    The gesture was too good to pass up. Even William, now mollified, agreed to a one-hour break. Conveniently, the crew''s lunch had just arrived, making it a perfect time for everyone to eat.


    In the dressing room, Ophelia''s brow furrowed at the sight of Sharon''s swollen cheek.


    "It''s nothing." Sharon said quickly. "Just part of the scene we were filming."


    "Hold still," Ophelia murmured. She wrapped an ice pack in a napkin and gently pressed it against the red mark on Sharon''s face.


    Sharon''s eyes sparkled as she looked at Ophelia, her gaze reminiscent of a starstruck fan meeting their idol. "I can do it myself," she said softly.


    Ophelia handed her the ice pack and nced at her watch. "Where''s Emily''s dressing room?" she asked


    Feona immediately pointed in the right direction.


    "Let''s go, Ophelia said, heading for the door. "We need to pay her a visit.


    Watching Ophelia''s determined expression, Sharon could guess what was happening. Ophelia must have found out about the online smear campaign against her. Even though they both new it was a setup, the only way to quell the rumors now was to apologize to Emily. A pang of guilt hit Sharon. Once again. Ophelia was left to clean up her messes.


    A knock sounded on the dressing room door. Tracy opened it. As she saw who had arrived, a flicker of understanding crossed her face, poorly concealing her contempt.


    ''She must be here to apologize to Emily, Tracy thought. After how things went down, how could she not?


    "Well, well, if it isn''t Ms. Campbell," Tracy sneered, a smug grin spreading across her face. "Looks like your cheek''s swollen too, huh?" Her eyes flicked to the woman beside Sharon, a sense of familiarity tugging at her. Before Tracy could ce her, Ophelia and Sharon breezed past her into the dressing room.


    Emily, who had been loungingfortably on the sofa, immediately stiffened at the sight of Ophelia. She sat up bristling like a cat with its hackles raised.


    straight,


    "What are you doing in my dressing room?" Emily asked, her voice tight with sudden nervousness, her eyes wary.


    "We left something here," Ophelia replied with a hint of a smirk, amused by Emily''s reaction. She walked to the vanity and picked up a lipstick.


    Emily''s eyes were fixed on Ophelia''s hands, watching intently as she pressed something on what appeared to be a lipstick tube. Suddenly, a small red light blinked on.


    Upon closer inspection. Emily realized with a jolt that this wasn''t lipstick at all but a hidden camera. A sense of dread washed over her.


    You


    put a camera in my dressing room? Ophelia, have you lost your mind?" Emily stared at her in horror. ''How long has this been going on?'' Her mind raced, wondering if everything from before had been recorded.


    Sharon slood frozen, watching as Ophelia pulled out her phone. A video appeared on the screen, showing Sharon and Emily rehearsing their scene.


    The phone''s speaker crackled to life. "Ms. Campbell, we have a pping sceneing up. I want you to really go for it-no holding back. It''s our first scene together, so we need to give it our allContent (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Sharon''s voice came through. "Of course. I''ll make sure to control the force, but I''ll make it look authentic."


    The video jumped to a new angle, clearly showing the red mark on Emily''s face. But a keen observer would notice that it wasn''t the result of a sideways p. Instead, it looked as if a hand had been pressed against her cheek. "Did you get the shots!" Emily''s voice rang out.


    Tracy replied, "Don''t worry, Emily. They''re already on Twitter. Being a diva the lead actress on set? Let''s see her try to salvage her reputation after this."


    ting rehearsals and now physically attacking


    Emily nodded with satisfaction. "Alright, hurry up and wipe this stuff off my hand."


    Tracy dutifully began wiping away the paint from Emily''s palms with makeup remover.


    Emily admired herself in the mirror, a smug smile ying on her lips.


    Unbeknownst to them, a hidden camera was capturing every moment of this exchange. It was perfect


    When Ophelia learned on her way to the set that Emily had reced the original lead actress, she made a quick detour to an electronics store to buy a hidden camera. She had ''identally" bumped into Tracy, slipping the device into her pocket.


    Ophelia knew Tracy would naturally ce it on Emily''s makeup table. Even if it didn''t capture video, the audio would be enough.


    As Tracy spotted the familiar lipstick, a sudden realization hit her. But it was already toote.


    Ophelia suddenly announced. "Well, we''ve found what we came for. Let''s go and leave Ms. Hastings to rest."


    "Ophelia, what... What are you nning to do?" Emily hurriedly stood up to block their path. She couldn''t let them release that video footage. It was absolutely out of the question.


    She frantically tried to snatch the camera, but Ophelia didn''t dodge. Instead, she calmly handed the device over, knowing full well the video had already been copied to her phone.


    Emily, now groveling, pleaded, "Ophelia, please. Is this really necessary? Do you have to crush me to feel better? Can''t we just call it even if I grovel and say sorry?" Her act was Oscar-worthy, but a hint of cunning lurked beneath the surface. She turned to Sharon, cranking up the theatrics. "Ms. Campbell, I''m so, so sorry. I wasn''t thinking straight earlier. I''ve even been defending you online. I swear..."


    As Emily clutched at the hem of Sharon''s costume, her face a mask of humility, her eyes shed with calction. She discreetly signaled to Tracy, urging her to take photos of the scene.


    She''d already imagined the perfect headline: [Sharon Bullies Emily, Forces Her to Kneel and Apologize in Public] Everyone would sympathize with her, the victim who''d been struck and then forced to apologize. They''d turn on Sharon en masse.


    0

 Jilted Bride 63

    Chapter


    63


    Tracy slipped to the side, cautiously pulling out her phone. But just as she opened the camera app, her hand suddenly felt


    empty.


    Ophelia had snatched the phone away in one swift move, She kiew Emily all too well.


    Seeing her n thwarted, Emily immediately jumped to her fee "Ophelia, what''s your problem?" she demanded. "I''ve never done anything to you. Why are you always getting in my way?" Ophelia let out a coldugh. "Never done anything? You sound so innocent."


    Emily sighed, "Why don''t you just name your price?" Her eyes unconsciously darted to the phone on the couch, its screen facing down.


    "Seven million dors." Ophelia stated dy.


    "Are you out of your mind?" Emily''s face contorted with anger.


    First, Emily had topensate seven million dors for a single dress, and now Ophelia wanted another seven million dors. She couldn''t help but think Ophelia must be obsessed with money "I''m not finished," Ophelia continued. "Besides the seven million dors, you''ll need to clear things up online."


    ''Clear things up? Emily thought bitterly. "Wouldn''t that be like pping myself in the face?'' People might even use her of staging the whole thing.


    "That''s imposs-" Emily said, but the word died in her throat as she met Ophelia''s piercing gaze.


    Ophelia''s voice turned icy. "You have five seconds to decide. Five, four..."Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Each number hit Emily like a hammer blow as Ophelia counted down to "one"


    Emily gritted her teeth. "Fine, I''ll rify. I''ll do it. But... But seven million dors is too much."


    "Then there''s nothing left to discuss," Ophelia said, turning to leave.


    Before her hand could touch the doorknob, Emily blocked her path. "Okay, I''ll pay. Just...give me some time."


    "Do you really think you''re in any position to negotiate with me" Ophelia smirked. Her piercing gaze made Emily squirm ufortably.


    Without hesitation, Ophelia grabbed Tracy''s phone. She quickly typed out a message, uploaded an audio file, and added a photo of Emily''s current state. The


    post read: [Everyone, just to clear things up-1 let Ms. Campbell know in advance that this scene required real ps. The mark on my face is just makeup.]


    Ophelia thrust the phone screen in front of Emily''s face. I''ve given you plenty of face. Now post it."


    Emily clenched her fists, reluctantly hitting the send button.


    Ophelia didn''t need to do anything else. Sharon''s PR team sprang into action immediately.


    Within moments,izens began reacting. Onemented: [What the hell? Is this another publicity stunt?]


    Another user mocked. (Emily''s life is just one big performance. She''s always putting on a show]


    14-5


    Mon, Nov


    0059%


    Even Emily''s fans turned on her, saying things like: [Unfollowing right now. Can''t believe she''d pull this stunt for attention and then try to clear it up. We''ve seen this self-contradicting actoo many times.] Otherizens chimed in: [Disgusting. This is absolutely disgusting.]


    Thements kept pouring in, one after another.


    "Send me the money before tonight, Ophelia said curtly and left with Sharon.


    The break room was now empty except for Emily and Tracy. Emily''s troubled expression instantly vanished, reced by a smug smile and eyes glinting with calction.


    "Emily, aren''t you worried?" Tracy asked, confusion evident in her voice.


    In response, Emily picked up her phone from the couch, revealing the still-active recording screen. She could have easily used the photos of the old man at Rosewood Manor to bargain with Ophelia, but she decided not to. Instead, she wanted Ophelia toy out her own terms.


    "Does she think I''m stupid?" Emily mused. "Ophelia, do you even know how many years you could get for ckmail? Enjoy your time behind bars."


    Meanwhile, in another room, Sharon was carefully applying an ice pad, all while casting furtive nces at Ophelia. "Are you...short on cash?" she asked.


    Ophelia turned to look at her, sensing that Sharon might view her direct request for seven million dors as a bit excessive. "This is a personal matter between Emily and me."


    In truth, Ophelia wasn''t short on money. Her goal was to gradually deplete the Hastings family''s avable funds, beyond. their existing loans,


    She nced at the time, wishing she''d stolen one more kiss from Keh earlier. Her rebirth in this life had altered many things. Surprisingly, Emily had be the lead in this show, a far cry from the original story. It was quite a waste of a good script. Ophelia decided she needed to have a word with William first. Beingte back could wait.


    Meanwhile, William was shoveling down his boxed lunch while reviewing the morning''s footage. Of all the scenes, Sharon''s first take stood out as the best. The more he watched it, the more pleased he became.


    As the camera focused on Emily, William furrowed his brow. He took a sip of water, holding his boxed lunch in one hand and the water bottle in the other, pressing his tongue against his teeth in thought.


    "Too forced," a voice behind him said, echoing William''s exact thoughts.


    Indeed, this wasn''t how Gwen, the female lead, should react. Though Emily was following the script, herexpressions and demeanor seemed petty,cking the inherent resilience of the character.


    William turned, his previously dull eyes brightening as theynded on the girl bebind him. He narrowed his gaze, taking in her rebellious brow and cool, detached manner. This girl was the spitting image of Gwen as he''d imagined her. Her looks alone could easily outshine half the starlets in the entertainment industry.


    "If I''m not mistaken, you''re Sharon''s friend who came to visit the set?" William asked. Though not yet forty, his hair had already gone gray. The salt-and-pepper sideburns peeking out from under his hat made his tanned skin look even darker.


    "You have an excellent memory," Ophelia smiled.


    Mon, Nov


    William, impressed by Opliclia''s candor, brushed off the previous incident and asked, "You mentioned forced. What did you mean by than


    "Can''t you see it?" Ophelia replied frankly. "Her acting ispletely superficial. She hasn''t truly connected with the character''s inner world. As a result, ites across as forced and artificial. She can''t keep up with Sharon''s performance at all I wonder how you chose her for the role, Mr. Martin."


    Her words were sharp, but William didn''t find them off-putting, However, Nancy, standing nearby, was visibly annoyed and about to retort when William raised his hand to stop him, a hint of resignation in his eyes.


    The truth was, just before filming began, their main investor had pulled out. It was Emily who had stepped in with funding and agreed to y the lead role without pay, which was how she''d secured the part.


    Sensing William''s predicament, Ophelia spoke up. "Mr. Martin, could we speak privately for a moment?"


    At that moment, a man''s voice, cold and maic, came from behind. "Who exactly did you want to talk to alone? Hm?"


    Ophelia felt a shadow fall over her as arge hand gripped her head, forcing her to turn around. She found herself staring into a pair of sharp eyes beneath a ck baseball cap. A chill ran down her spine. "What''s he doing here?'' she thought, suddenly noticing how the crowd around them had thinned out


    Keh''s eyes narrowed, his fierce expression hinting at barely contained fury. Ophelia realized Keh was on the verge of exploding.


    Thinking quickly, she grasped Keh''s hand and shed a smile at William. "Mind if my boyfriend joins us? The three of us can chat together.


    As soon as Ophelia''s soft hand touched his, Keh''s demeanor changed. He instantly mellowed, like a Maine Coon cat that had just been stroked.


    William eyed Keh''s attire - a ck shirt, ck cks, and a long, ash-gray coat that entuated his tall, slender frame. He had a hunch that the face hidden beneath the hat and mask must be equally attractive.


    The man exuded a coolness entirely foreign to the entertainment industry. William concluded he couldn''t be from their circles-perhaps he was the boss of some financial group.


    Without hesitation, William ushered Nancy and the others out, leaving just the three of them in the room.


    Ophelia guided Keh to afortable seat, her manner slightly fawning.


    Keh leaned back in his chair, legs crossed. Hisrge hands, with their distinct knuckles, toyed with Ophelia''s delicate fingers, asionally giving them a punishing squeeze. Observing Ophelia''s slightly furrowed brow, Keh felt his gloomy mood lift a little.

 Jilted Bride 64

    Ophelia cut straight to the chase. "Mr. Martin. I''ve looked at your previous casting choices. You have an excellent eye for talent. So why the sudden change? Is it a funding issue?" William''s silence was as good as confirmation.


    "Then let''s talk investment Ophelia said, skipping the niceties. She had two motives. First, she didn''t want this ssic y ruined, and second, she had a personal score to settle with Emily Besides, investing in a y destined for sess was a sure win,


    Her terms were simple rece Emily. She''d not only cover Emily''s investment gap but also throw in an additional three million dors.


    That brought her total investment to 10 million dors, a 45% stake, making her the most influential investor.


    William had ulterior motives when he said, "Well, there are some scheduling issues with our previous lead actress..." In fact, he was hoping Ophelia would take on the role.


    Seeing through William''s intentions, Ophelia responded bluntly, I''m not interested in acting, but I can rmend


    someone to you


    ""Who?" William asked.


    Sharon. Ophelia replied without hesitation.


    William immediately frowned, shaking his head vigorously. "No, no, that won''t work. Sharon''s a good actress, sure, but she''s just right for Josephine. Gwen? Absolutely not. We''d be better of sticking with Emily than casting Sharon" "I trust my choice. Let her try out for the role." Ophelia''s tone left no room for argument.


    William furrowed his brow, ncing at his watch. He wondered if he had just traded one headache for another. If he hadn''t invested so much time preparing for this production, he wouldn''t let some clueless people meddle in his work. Reluctantly, William sent someone to fetch Sharon. Without exining the situation, he simply asked her to act out the female lead''s scene from that morning.


    Sharon hesitated, ncing at Ophelia, who gave her a slight nod


    Taking a deep breath, Sharon closed her eyes. When she opened them again, her entire demeanor had transformed. She stood there, poised and dignified. In her mind, she knew how deeply Josephine loved that man. If Josephine were to learn that the bowl of soup had been sent by the Emperor himself, it would devastate her even more than she already was.


    Sharon endured silently, willingly bearing this burden alone. Even as tears streamed down her face and her voice broke with sobs, her expression of restrained anguish was perfectly conveyed


    Ophelia''s lips curled into a subtle smile. "Well, Mr. Martin? What do


    you


    think?"


    William cleared his throat, trying to hide his embarrassment at being proven wrong. He had to admit that some people really could be whoever they portrayed. He had clearly underestimated Sharon., "Fine, we''ll do it your way," William conceded. "Let''s exchange numbers. I''ll reach out once things are settled."


    Ophelia nodded. "Sounds good. And one more thing - Kimberly doesn''t fit Irene''s character at all. You might want to consider auditioning Amanda Shelby for the role instead."


    In her past life, Amanda had indeed yed the part. After the show aired, it came to light that Kimberly had thrown a diva


    D


    58%


    fit mid-filming and quit. The director had brought in Amanda asast-minute recement, resulting in Irene bing a beloved character.


    William was taken aback by Ophelia''s suggestion. Despite her age, she consistently hit the nail on the head, seemingly able to read his mind. He felt she was truly something special.


    After exchanging numbers, Ophelia didn''t even get a chance to say a word to Sharon. Keh promptly grabbed her by the shoulders and whisked her away.


    Emily stepped out of the break room, feeling pretty pleased with herself. But her smug grin vanished as she caught sight of a familiar figure. Is that Ophelia? Why is she with a man?''


    Their bodynguage suggested an intimate rtionship, and the man''s silhouette was clearly not that of the old man from Rosewood Manor.


    Emily swiftly pulled out her phone and snapped a picture of Ophelia and the mystery man from behind. Her eyes glimmered with poorly concealed triumph


    Initially, Emily had worried that if she turned Ophelia over to the police, the old man would protect her. But now, those concerns evaporated.


    She believed if Ophelia kept a young lover behind the old man''s back, not only would he fail to protect her, but he might even turn against her. ''Ophelia,'' she thought with a smirk, ''your days are numbered"


    On the way back to Rosewood Manor, Ophelia called Chloe, "Chloe, how much money can we pull together right now?*? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Ophelia''s delicate brows furrowed involuntarily at Chloe''s response.


    The money they''d earned from the stock market had mostly gone into investing in Christopher''spany and operating La Reverie. They''d just purchased a batch of rough stonesst week, leaving them with only about three million dors avable. As grand as Ophelia had been while negotiating with William earlier, she now felt equally desperate.


    Ophelia scrolled through her contacts, considering reaching out to James. She figured maybe he''d be willing to invest in this production


    Keh watched her with a prating gaze. Even though her expression revealed little, he could read her like an open book. "What are you up to?" he asked.


    "Trying to secure some investment for this film," Ophelia replied, her tone casual but her mind racing.


    Keh let out a cold snort. He removed his hat and ran his fingers through his hair, his expression darkening.


    Ophelia thought he was upset about her looking at her phone. She leaned in with a sweet smile, intending to give him a peck on the cheek


    To her surprise, the usually easily pacified Keh turned away. He''s not falling for this now? she wondered.


    "What''s wrong? Are you upset? I''ll make it up to you when we get home, okay?" Her tone was reminiscent of someone coaxing a child.


    "Why didn''t youe to me?" Keh asked abruptly.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow. "Come to you?"


    "What? You don''t think I can afford to invest in a film?" Keh snorted.


    14:51 Mon, Nov 11 uw ti


    958%


    She''d rather run herself ragged chasing investors than ask me for a dime, he thought, shaking his head in disbelief. Tm sitting on a fortune here, but she''s looking for help from others Good luck with that


    Ophelia''s eyes lit up, and she smiled like a sly fox. "So, Mr. Sinir, how much are you nning to invest?"


    "Who said I''m going to invest?" Keh replied tly.


    Ophelia''s face fell. His mood swings were giving her whish.


    Keh leaned back in his chair, legs crossed, clearly not in a mod to negotiate. "Give me one good reason why I should."


    It was clear Keh wouldn''t do anything unless there was something in it for him. He never made unprofitable deals.


    "Well... Ophelia said, choosing her words carefully. "First off, this drama aligns perfectly with the current market trends. It''s an adaptation of a popr IP. Secondly, the production team is highly experienced, and the director has a cutting-edge vision. In andscape saturated with period dramas and family sagas, this show has the potential to be a dark horse once it


    airs.


    Ophelia was being conservative in her pitch. She vividly remembered how this drama had taken the entire country by storm in her past life,


    Keh''s face remained expressionless.


    Ophelia, at a loss, kept praising the show over and over until her throat went dry. She reached for the bottled water in the car and took a few sips. B¨²t Keh still wasn''t buying it.


    Is he still not satisfied with what I have said?'' Ophelia sighed. This big boss is truly the toughest nut to crack.


    Even after they returned to Rosewood Manor, Keh remained unmoved by her words.


    Upstairs in the room, Ophelia took a deep breath. "How about this? I can throw in a contract guaranteeing that your investment will bring you substantial returns. If it doesn''t, I''llpensate you double."


    That should be enough to show she meant business, Ophelia thought. If this wasn''t enough, she''d have no choice but to give


    1. up.


    "You''ll need to try a bit harder to convince me," Keh replied his tone unimpressed.


    "After all I''ve said, you''re still not convinced?" Ophelia froze, caught off guard as she watched Keh remove his coat and unfasten his wristwatch. The grace of his

 Jilted Bride 65

    Keh pinned her against the wall, his cool lips brushing her earlobe. "How much do you want?" he asked, his tone indulgent. His voice suggested he''d give her whatever amount she named. Not wanting to be greedy, Ophelia gestured. "Seven million dors."


    "Deal." Keh agreed without hesitation. He leaned in, his lips seeking hers.


    Ophelia hesitated, acutely aware of the broad daylight around them. She looked up, meeting Keh''s intense gaze. Hist eyes, deep and mesmerizing, seemed to draw her inpletely


    Every time Ophelia saw that look, her heart ached uncontrolily. There was no logical reason for it, but it was as if she was seeing the man who had died for her in the past life. In those moments, Ophelia felt she would give him anything he desired.


    The tension between them was palpable. Keh''s strong, masculine hand reached towards the nightstand, only to grasp at empty air. The condoms were gone.


    Keh''s eyes, which had been burning with passion, gradually cooled. His chest rose and fell with restrained desire, and Ophelia understood they had run out of condoms. Ophelia''s delicate arms wrapped around Keh''s neck as she nted delicate kisses on his skin.


    Keh frowned, gently restraining Ophelia as she tried to seduce him. He wrapped her in the nket and rolled out of bed.


    Momentster, the sound of running water echoed from the bathroom.


    This man, Ophelia mused, has even more self-control than I imagined


    As the water continued to run in the bathroom, two soft knocks gounded at the door.


    Ophelia quickly dressed and went to answer the door. Lisa stood there, visibly anxious. "Miss Spencer, there are police. officers at the main gate. They say you''re suspected of extortion and need to take you in for questioning." "Alright," Ophelia replied calmly, ncing towards the bathroom before straightening her clothes and heading out. When Keh finished his shower and came downstairs, he found Lisa pacing back and forth, wringing her hands. "Mr. Sinir, thank goodness you''re here! The police have taken Miss Spencer away," Lisa blurted out.


    Keh''s brow furrowed, a shadow falling over his deep-set eyes.


    "They said something about extortion. But Miss Spencer would never do such a thing!" Lisa continued, practically spinning in circles with worry.


    Just then, one of the security guards approached. "Mr. Sinir, someone sent you a photograph. They im it shows... Well they say it shows Miss Spencer with a toyboy she''s keeping on the side."Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    The guard rushed through his report, keeping his head down, afraid to meet Keh''s gaze.


    Keh snatched the photo, furrowing his brow as he inwardly scoffed. He had warned her before. If she stepped out of line, he would personally break her legs. Even if she was at the police station now, he''d bail her out just to do it himself. As Keh flipped the photo over, his eyebrow twitched. "Damn Who said I''m her toy boy? His expression became unreadable, causing the bodyguards and servants to hold their tongues in fear. 14:51 Mon, Nov 11 ti.


    Lisa could only fret silently, wondering why Keh wasn''t more concerned.


    Clutching the photo, Keh turned and headed upstairs, pulling out his phone to make a call.


    The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead in the Denex police station. Tracy, the assistant, had just finished recounting the incident. Emily sat beside her, face masked, a picture of silent distress.


    The officer offered some reassuring words. This kind of thing happened often in the entertainment world - obsessive fans threatening celebrities'' privacy, followed by ckmail attempts.


    It was just that the amount this time was quiterge.


    "We''ve already sent people to bring her in. We''ll get to the bottom of this. I assure you, the officer, Steven, stated.


    "Thank you," Emily replied, ying the role of a victim as she sat on the couch, clutching a ss of water with both hands.


    Tracy chimed in, "Steven, you have no idea how brazen that woman is. She''s from the slums, you know. She must have gone crazy with greed to try and ckmail our artist for seven million dors. Surely that''s enough to lock her up for good, right?" Chapter 65


    Keh pinned her against the wall, his cool lips brushing her earlobe. "How much do you want?" he asked, his tone indulgent. His voice suggested he''d give her whatever amount she named.


    Not wanting to be greedy, Ophelia gestured. "Seven million dors."


    "Deal." Keh agreed without hesitation. He leaned in, his lips seeking hers.


    Ophelia hesitated, acutely aware of the broad daylight around them. She looked up, meeting Keh''s intense gaze. Hist eyes, deep and mesmerizing, seemed to draw her inpletely


    Every time Ophelia saw that look, her heart ached uncontrolily. There was no logical reason for it, but it was as if she was seeing the man who had died for her in the past life.


    In those moments, Ophelia felt she would give him anything he desired.


    The tension between them was palpable. Keh''s strong, masculine hand reached towards the nightstand, only to grasp at empty air. The condoms were gone.


    Keh''s eyes, which had been burning with passion, gradually cooled. His chest rose and fell with restrained desire, and Ophelia understood they had run out of condoms. Ophelia''s delicate arms wrapped around Keh''s neck as she nted delicate kisses on his skin.


    Keh frowned, gently restraining Ophelia as she tried to seduce him. He wrapped her in the nket and rolled out of bed.


    Momentster, the sound of running water echoed from the bathroom.


    This man, Ophelia mused, has even more self-control than I imagined


    As the water continued to run in the bathroom, two soft knocks gounded at the door.


    Ophelia quickly dressed and went to answer the door. Lisa stood there, visibly anxious. "Miss Spencer, there are police. officers at the main gate. They say you''re suspected of extortion and need to take you in for questioning." "Alright," Ophelia replied calmly, ncing towards the bathroom before straightening her clothes and heading out. When Keh finished his shower and came downstairs, he found Lisa pacing back and forth, wringing her hands. "Mr. Sinir, thank goodness you''re here! The police have taken Miss Spencer away," Lisa blurted out.


    Keh''s brow furrowed, a shadow falling over his deep-set eyes.


    "They said something about extortion. But Miss Spencer would never do such a thing!" Lisa continued, practically spinning in circles with worry.


    Just then, one of the security guards approached. "Mr. Sinir, someone sent you a photograph. They im it shows... Well they say it shows Miss Spencer with a toyboy she''s keeping on the side."


    The guard rushed through his report, keeping his head down, afraid to meet Keh''s gaze.


    Keh snatched the photo, furrowing his brow as he inwardly scoffed. He had warned her before. If she stepped out of line, he would personally break her legs. Even if she was at the police station now, he''d bail her out just to do it himself. As Keh flipped the photo over, his eyebrow twitched. "Damn Who said I''m her toy boy? His expression became unreadable, causing the bodyguards and servants to hold their tongues in fear. 14:51 Mon, Nov 11 ti.


    Lisa could only fret silently, wondering why Keh wasn''t more concerned.


    Clutching the photo, Keh turned and headed upstairs, pulling out his phone to make a call.


    The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead in the Denex police station. Tracy, the assistant, had just finished recounting the incident. Emily sat beside her, face masked, a picture of silent distress.


    The officer offered some reassuring words. This kind of thing happened often in the entertainment world - obsessive fans threatening celebrities'' privacy, followed by ckmail attempts.


    It was just that the amount this time was quiterge.


    "We''ve already sent people to bring her in. We''ll get to the bottom of this. I assure you, the officer, Steven, stated.


    "Thank you," Emily replied, ying the role of a victim as she sat on the couch, clutching a ss of water with both hands.


    Tracy chimed in, "Steven, you have no idea how brazen that woman is. She''s from the slums, you know. She must have gone crazy with greed to try and ckmail our artist for seven million dors. Surely that''s enough to lock her up for good, right?" Steven''s brow furrowed at the mention of "slums". It was true that the area was known for its uneducated residents who often engaged in illegal activities. In his mind, he had already convicted the used.


    When Ophelia was escorted into the office by two officers, she found Emily, masked and wide-eyed, staring at her in apparent terror.


    "Nice acting. Ophelia scoffed. This time, you''re not just scratching the surface!


    Tracy pointed at her and yelled, "It''s her, Steven. She''s the one extorting money."


    Steven hesitated. The girl before him didn''t look like someone who''d have any connection to the slums. But appearances could be deceiving. "Are you Ophelia? Show me your ID, please One nce at her ID would reveal whether she was from the slums or not


    As Ophelia reached into her bag. Tracy let out a coldugh. "Steven, why don''t you just round up all these slum-dwellers. It''d save us from letting these low-lifes tarnish Denex''s image."


    The officer didn''t even flinch at Tracy''s words. Such tant discrimination against slum residents was apparently normal.


    Ophelia produced her ID, but it was facing down, hiding her personal information.


    "What''s the hold-up? Tracy sneered. "Too scared to show it? We all know you''re slum trash. Stop trying to hide it and hurry. We don''t have all day."


    1. up.


    Ophelia indifferently raised her eyelids, her gaze as sharp as a de, cutting through the air towards Tracy. Even a saint would lose patience with this constant buzzing.


    Tracy flinched under Ophelia''s icy stare, inching closer to the cap. "Steven, you seeing this? She''s giving me the creeps. This is exactly how she intimidated Emily before.


    "Enough," Steven shot back. "Just hand me the ID. His tone was severe, either annoyed by the chaos or perhaps disdainful of Ophelia''s background. Either way, he impatiently snatched the ID from her.


    The address read: (4702, 226 Barlin Road, Denex West End.] It was not the West End slums.


    Tracy craned her neck to look, and upon realizing it wasn''t the West End slurns, she quickly grabbed the ID from Steven''s


    hands. "How is this possible? She showed the ID to Emily, whose brow furrowed in confusion.


    00058%


    It can''t be Emily pondered. ''Isn''t Ophelia supposed to be the girl the Hastings family had reimed from the slums?


    Steven felt a surge of anger as if he''d been deceived. He looked Emily and Tracy with exasperation.


    "Finished?" Ophelia asked, her expression remaining cool and detached throughout.


    This address held deep significance. It was obtained by her grandmother years ago to ensure Ophelia could attend school. Her grandmother had traded a hand-made dress for it, an act that ultimately cost her eyesight. Steven took the ID from Emily and handed it back to Ophelia. When he gazed at her again, the earlier judgment was gone but he still held the wariness reserved for suspects. "Ophelia, we''ve heard you possess a video of Ms. Hastings and are attempting to extort seven million dors from her. Is this truc


    Ophelia''s lips curled slightly, but before she could answer, two knocks sounded at the open door. Everyone in the room turned to look at the neers.


    A young police officer stood in the doorway, and behind him was a man dressed in a tailored navy blue suit.


    The man stood about six feet three, with soft yet defined features. His brow, however, was stern and unyielding. With amber eyes hinting at a mixed heritage, he radiated a sense of elite professionalism. "Adams West," he said, extending his hand. "I represent Miss Spencer."


    "Adams. That name rings a bell, Steven thought. Rising from his seat, he sized up the imposing figure at the door, bis mind working. Adams West? The internationally renownedwyer?''


    Steven recalled a legal segment on Denex TV where Adams had been a special guest. In his six-year career, he had never


    lost a case.


    Steven looked back to Ophelia, seeing her in an entirely new light. If she can retain such a heavyweight in the legal world,'' he pondered, ''she must be quite something herself.


    COMMENT


    0


    on of "slums". It was true that the area was known for its uneducated residents who often engaged in illegal activities. In his mind, he had already convicted the used. When Ophelia was escorted into the office by two officers, she found Emily, masked and wide-eyed, staring at her in apparent terror.


    "Nice acting. Ophelia scoffed. This time, you''re not just scratching the surface!


    Tracy pointed at her and yelled, "It''s her, Steven. She''s the one extorting money."


    Steven hesitated. The girl before him didn''t look like someone who''d have any connection to the slums. But appearances could be deceiving. "Are you Ophelia? Show me your ID, please One nce at her ID would reveal whether she was from the slums or not


    As Ophelia reached into her bag. Tracy let out a coldugh. "Steven, why don''t you just round up all these slum-dwellers. It''d save us from letting these low-lifes tarnish Denex''s image."


    The officer didn''t even flinch at Tracy''s words. Such tant discrimination against slum residents was apparently normal.


    Ophelia produced her ID, but it was facing down, hiding her personal information.


    "What''s the hold-up? Tracy sneered. "Too scared to show it? We all know you''re slum trash. Stop trying to hide it and hurry. We don''t have all day."


    1. up.


    Ophelia indifferently raised her eyelids, her gaze as sharp as a de, cutting through the air towards Tracy. Even a saint would lose patience with this constant buzzing.


    Tracy flinched under Ophelia''s icy stare, inching closer to the cap. "Steven, you seeing this? She''s giving me the creeps. This is exactly how she intimidated Emily before.


    "Enough," Steven shot back. "Just hand me the ID. His tone was severe, either annoyed by the chaos or perhaps disdainful of Ophelia''s background. Either way, he impatiently snatched the ID from her.


    The address read: (4702, 226 Barlin Road, Denex West End.] It was not the West End slums.


    Tracy craned her neck to look, and upon realizing it wasn''t the West End slurns, she quickly grabbed the ID from Steven''s


    hands. "How is this possible? She showed the ID to Emily, whose brow furrowed in confusion.


    00058%


    It can''t be Emily pondered. ''Isn''t Ophelia supposed to be the girl the Hastings family had reimed from the slums?


    Steven felt a surge of anger as if he''d been deceived. He looked Emily and Tracy with exasperation.


    "Finished?" Ophelia asked, her expression remaining cool and detached throughout.


    This address held deep significance. It was obtained by her grandmother years ago to ensure Ophelia could attend school. Her grandmother had traded a hand-made dress for it, an act that ultimately cost her eyesight. Steven took the ID from Emily and handed it back to Ophelia. When he gazed at her again, the earlier judgment was gone but he still held the wariness reserved for suspects. "Ophelia, we''ve heard you possess a video of Ms. Hastings and are attempting to extort seven million dors from her. Is this truc


    Ophelia''s lips curled slightly, but before she could answer, two knocks sounded at the open door. Everyone in the room turned to look at the neers.


    A young police officer stood in the doorway, and behind him was a man dressed in a tailored navy blue suit.


    The man stood about six feet three, with soft yet defined features. His brow, however, was stern and unyielding. With amber eyes hinting at a mixed heritage, he radiated a sense of elite professionalism. "Adams West," he said, extending his hand. "I represent Miss Spencer."


    "Adams. That name rings a bell, Steven thought. Rising from his seat, he sized up the imposing figure at the door, bis mind working. Adams West? The internationally renownedwyer?''


    Steven recalled a legal segment on Denex TV where Adams had been a special guest. In his six-year career, he had never


    lost a case.


    Steven looked back to Ophelia, seeing her in an entirely new light. If she can retain such a heavyweight in the legal world,'' he pondered, ''she must be quite something herself.


    COMMENT


    0

 Jilted Bride 66

    Chapter 66 THE


    Steven stood up and politely poured a ss of water for Ophell his tone softer than before. "Miss Spencer, we invited you here simply to ask for your cooperation in the investigation and to verify the situation."


    Ophelia sensed the change in Steven''s attitude and knew without thinking that it was Keh''s influence at work. She guessed that Keh would help her call for backup, but she didn''t expect the help to arrive so quickly. In fact, she could handle this small matter on her own.


    Emily and Tracy also noticed the shift in Steven''s demeanor. They originally thought he would surely side with them since they were the victims, but after witnessing his change, they felt uncertain.


    "Is it just because of thatwyer? How capable could thewyer Ophelia hired possibly be? Did that old man from Rosewood Manor not receive the photos? Emily secretly grumbled to herself. Adams stepped forward a few paces. "Could I check their testimonies?"


    Steven immediately handed him the written statements that had just been printed and signed


    Adams took a quick nce. These testimoniesck supporting evidence."


    "Yes, that''s why we hope Miss Spencer will cooperate with the investigation to rify any misunderstandings between them," Steven said, smiling and speaking humbly.


    Emily became anxious, thinking. He only wants her to cooperate with the investigation. Why not directly arrest her finally have the chance to send Ophelia to jail, and I absolutely cannot let her go!"


    "I have evidence.." Emily quickly pulled out her phone, saying. Toriginally wanted to give her a chance, but I didn''t expect her to be so stubborn. She even hired awyer!"


    Ophelia calmly took a sip of water, thinking, ''Even at this point. she still doesn''t forget to maintain her good-guy persona. Doesn''t she feel tired?''


    Adams looked at Ophelia, who seemed totally at home in the police station, and wondered, ''Does she really need my help? She looks way more confident than Emily as if she''s the one nning send Emily to jail. For the first time, Adams felt himself a bit pointless. Everyone in the room was staring at Emily''s actions. She selected thetter half of the recording, turned the volume up to the maximum, and pressed y. The phone emitted a harsh noise.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Emily immediately turned down the volume and held the phone close to her ear, thinking, "What is this sound?"


    The people present looked at her with strange expressions.


    "T... I might have yed the wrong one... Emily hurriedly swiped her phone screen. However, the more anxious she became, the more chaotic it got. She identally opened the unedited original audio.


    The phone finally emitted a normal sound. "Ophelia, what do you want? I have no grievances with you. Why are you opposing me at every turn?"


    Emily looked up at the utterly calm Ophelia, thinking, ''Let me see how she maintains her calm now,"


    "Why don''t you just name a price?" Emily tightened her grip on her phone anxiously, seemingly casually lowering the volume while observing the police officers'' expressions.


    Next, it was Ophelia''s turn to extort Emily in the recording. "Buzz Buzz... But a noise came from the phone again.


    Emily thought, "What''s going on? Is the phone broken?"


    58%11


    Steven frowned impatiently,doubting that Emily was just making a fuss. "Ms. Hastings, what exactly do you want us to hear? Didn''t you check the recording after you finished?" To him, this was nothing but a farce. Emily was acting like there was evidence when there really wasn''t.


    Emily was so anxious that she nearly cried. She checked the recording but only listened to the first half and had no idea what was happening in the second half. She moved the progress bar to the middle over and over, but the phone emitted noise time and again. She looked at the phone in disbelief, thinking, "Why is this happening?"


    The previously silent Ophelia finally spoke. "Officer, let me exin. Ms. Hastings had some conflicts with my actress on set, which you can verify online. I have evidence of Ms. Hastings using my actress falsely, and when Ms. Hastings found out, she asked me to set a price. I knew this was against thew, so I just left without saying anything"


    "Ophelia, you lied! You said you wanted seven million dors!" Emily stood up and retorted loudly, full of conviction.


    "Yes, I heard that too," Tracy added. "Ophelia, how can you lie so brazenly?"


    Their passionate demeanor left Steven confused. "Which one of them is telling the truth?"


    "Did I tell you my ount? Did I threaten you by saying what would happen if you didn''t give me the money? I know you are an actress and paid well, but there''s no need for me to extort you like this. Ophelia defended herself.


    Steven caught useful information and thought, ''Ms. Hastings is an actress, so her actions might all be part of a performance. Presumably, Miss Spencer has something on her, so she came up with this idea? Since she couldn''t produce useful evidence, this matter could only end like this.


    "Ms. Hastings, it was you who asked Miss Spencer to set a price. It was purely voluntary on your part and does not count as extortion. If you did indeed frame others, Miss Spencer''spensation request is within legal limits, Steven exined patiently, thinking. Isn''t she just looking for trouble? Even if this recording mentioned a specific amount, it wouldn''t prove that Ophelia was extorting


    Emily pouted in frustration, signaling Tracy to speak. Just as Tracy was about to say something. Ophelia shot her down. "Additionally, Tracy, I have the right to question the transcript you provided, as it may have the intent to defame others. I will pursue your criminal liability ording to thew!


    Adams turned to look at Ophelia and thought, ''So, what am I even doing here? Just to keep up appearances?


    When Tracy heard that she would be held legally ountable, her face turned pale instantly, losing all confidence she had shown moments ago. "This has nothing to do with me. It was Emily who made me say that" She would rather give up her job than go to jail. "What are you saying?" Emily stood up, wishing she could p Tracy.


    In the dog-eat-dog argument, Ophelia stood up, maintaining her calm demeanor throughout. Despite her young age, she had


    a pure and harmless appearance but exuded an undeniably intimidating aura. "Can I leave now?"


    "Sure, thank you for cooperating with the investigation. We will handle it." Steven escorted Ophelia to the door.


    Through the slits of the blinds, Ophelia looked calmly at Emily, her gaze ambiguous. She understood Emily''s schemes all too well. So, besides buying a camera, she also purchased a recording jammer. After suffering so many losses in her previous life, if she still didn''t learn her lesson, then living again would truly be in vain.


    0

 Jilted Bride 67

    After leaving the police station, Ophelia saw the car from Rosewood Manor parked at the entrance. She turned back to Adams and thanked him.


    Adams had also been dealing with such trivialwsuits for the first time, and he hadn''t really helped much, feeling unworthy of Ophelia''s gratitude. Ophelia nodded to him, stepped down, and got into the car. As soon as she got in, Keh pulled her wrist and brought her into his embrace. Keh lifted her chin, his gaze somewhat cold and fierce, resembling the way he looked when Ophelia first met him after her rebirth.


    "Ophelia, if you disappear again without letting me know, you can forget about your freedom for the rest of your life." Keh''s words were far from a joke. He was particrly seriou After speaking, Keh immediately released her, sitting alone in his seat and turning to look out the window. Keh''s changed attitude left Ophelia puzzled, and she thought, ''Is he angry because he couldn''t find me after he finished


    his shower?


    Like a little child, Ophelia tugged at Keh''s sleeve. "Are you angry? I thought Lisa would tell you I went out, and I thought I could handle it myself, so I didn''t want to trouble you. Her pleasing voice sounded soft and tender. However, Keh raised his hand to keep her from touching him. "Ophelia, who am I?"


    Ophelia wanted to say that he was obviously Keh, but she knew that wasn''t the answer he wanted, and she didn''t foolishly blurt it out. Instead, she shyly replied, "You are...my man."


    But Keh didn''t ept it, snorting coldly, "Hmph... Is that so His eyes were filled with frost. He didn''t feel that Ophelia considered him her partner,


    For Ophelia, who had never been in a rtionship in both lives, she felt confused, thinking, ''Is he not satisfied with such an answer?


    She wracked her brain, recalling the reason Keh was angry when they returned to Rosewood Manor from the set, and she began to guess why he was upset this time. "So, you''re angry that I didn''t tell you right away?" Keh remained silent, two little figures battling in his mind. One told him to give her freedom and let her spread her wings, while the other insisted on keeping her close.


    Seeing Keh''s silence, Ophelia knew she had guessed correctly and secretly exhaled. Having grown up resolving all her troubles by herself, she realized it was her fault for not making him feel needed. "Keh, I am your kite. No matter how high I fly, the string is always in your hands." "What if the string breaks?" Keh turned his head to look at her, gazing deeply into her eyes.


    That gaze resembled the one he had when Ophelia first saw him in this life, filled with possession and faint struggle. Every time she saw that look, her heart ached. "Haven''t we already gotten married? Keh, don''t worry. As long as you don''t fall in love with someone else, I promise I won''t leave you."


    Keh stared at her, his gaze gradually bing heated. The partition rose at an opportune moment. Keh held Ophelia''s head, kissing her almost frantically, wanting to mark her all over and let everyone know she belonged to him.


    Inside the car, their breaths intertwined, creating a wave of heat, but gradually it calmed down. Keh''s strong fingers wove through her hair, holding her tightly in his embrace. The car drove steadily down the road, and silence enveloped the interior for a long time. "Back in that winter, I told my mother that I wanted a ser ball, and she said she would go out to buy one for me. Then,


    0058%


    she never came back Keh whispered in Ophelia''s ear, his voice hoarse and calm, as if he were recounting something trivial.


    But Ophelia felt her heart was pierced. Each word struck her heart, making it feel like it had cracked open countless seams, causing pain that made it hard for her to breathe.


    Ophelia thought, "So every time he looked at me so affectionately, he felt so conflicted and struggled. He didn''t dare make requests of me because he was afraid of losing me. Tears welled in her eyes, and she sympathized with him. "He was only nine years old then! Ophelia felt as if her throat was blocked by something, and she couldn''t utter a word. She could only hold him tightly, just like he usually held her.


    The next day, Emily arrived at the set of Legacy of the Paramour around noon, apanied by a trustworthy-looking male assistant. When she entered the lounge, she saw Sharon sitting on her sofa, dressed in a look that was all too familiar to her, looking at the script. "Ms. Campbell, did you walk into the wrong room? This is my lounge."


    "Sorry, but from now on, this lounge belongs to me. I have had someone pack your things and ce them at the door," Sharon replied without looking up.


    Emily turned her head, her gaze dropping down, thinking, "Is this bag of trash my stuff? She suppressed her anger and carefully surveyed the area, fearing there were hidden cameras. Seeing that Sharon ignored her, she decided to find the director, William. Before Emily reached the director''s office, she encountered Ophelia walking with William, seemingly enjoying a good conversation. William, who never smiled, was actually talking andughing with Ophelia.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    "What''s going on here?'' Emily pressed down her inner agitation as she walked over, forcing a smile. "Mr. Martin, am I being switched lounges? Ms. Campbell is in my lounge. Her tone sounded like a primary school student reporting to a teacher.


    "Didn''t your agent tell you? You have been reced as the female lead. You''re still young, and your acting skills need more honing. You have to learn to get into the character''s heart. However, you are a very talented actress, and we can coborate again next time," William exined.


    Emily stood frozen, shooting a venomous re at Ophelia "Did you speak ill of me? Ophelia, what do you want? Mr. Martin, don''t listen to her side of the story. I can improve where I didn''t perform well. I will learn. Besides, I..."


    "The investment from Sungate Entertainment, along with the penalty fees, has already been refunded. If you want to have at cameo as a maid or something, you can try. Your performance just now was quite good." William''s words were particrly


    mean.


    Emily remained dazed for a long while before registering what had happened. She immediately pulled out her phone to call Sophia, thinking. She fought for this opportunity, and now it''s gone just like that!


    The phone rang for a long time without anyone picking up. Emily then called her father, but after two rings, the call was disconnected. She was so furious that she wanted to throw away her phone. "Emily, Emily... Someone called her name.


    "Shut up!" Frustrated, Emily directed all her rage at her assistant. The male assistant lowered his head and cautiously handed her the phone.


    "Emily, Leave the Entertainment Industry!" had topped the hot search rankings. Emily received countless insults in her private messages, and every post on her homepage was filled with derogatoryments, worse than any previous incidents. [The scheming bitch is so disgusting! From now on, no matter what role Emily ys, even if it''s a minor one, I won''t watch it.]


    14:52 Mon, Nov 11 wwti


    [How can she do such a morally repugnant thing? Doesn''t she feel guilty? She is putting on quite a show!]


    [How malicious can a person be to frame fellow cast members? What benefits does she gain from doing this?] 0058%


    [Some people are inherently bad. Disgusting! A tumor! Emily should hurry up and get out of the entertainment industry!]


    [Get out of the entertainment industry!]


    Various media outlets frantically re-shared and edited videos of Emily framing Sharon,menting that what she said was unbearable. Emily felt her head explode with a loud bang.

 Jilted Bride 68

    Emily stormed into the director''s office and walked straight up 15 Ophelia. In front of Williarn, she tried to keep her cool, but her voice couldn''t hide her anger. "Ophelia,e with me. We need to talk." "What is there for us to talk about?" Ophelia colilly looked at her


    Ophelia''s indifferent demeanor made it seem as if she did not recognize Emily, treating her like a clown putting on a one-man show.


    Emily particrly hated the look in Ophelia''s eyes, her face twisting in anger. "Do you want me to say it publicly? You are a member of the Hastings family. Do you want to embarrass our juirents?"


    More than a dozen staff and actors were present. They were already curious about the new investors, and now they paused their work, their eyes revealing a sense of gossip.


    "So they are sisters?" someone whispered.


    They aren''t biological sisters." another person countered. "Didn you see the gossip online before? Emily is the adopted daughter that the Hastings couple mistook for their own. Ophelia is probably their biological daughter. So now that the real heiress has returned, the status of the adopted daughter has drastically diminished."


    At first, they envied Emily for being the female lead as soon as she joined the cast. But now she was suddenly reced overnight. The staff thought it was because Ophelia was suppressing Emily at every turn, so Emily was truly pathetic.


    Ophelia remained unfazed, leaning back in her chair with her elbow resting on the armrest. "Go on. I''m listening"


    ''Will still be this calm in a moment, Emily thought, pulling out a photo of an old man from her phone and holding it up in front of Ophelia.


    Emily asked, "Ophelia, you should recognize this man in the photo, right? You are already married, and everything you have now is honored by this man. Yet you take advantage of the fact that no one knows you are married, and you keep a call boy. What you''re doing is despicable!" Ophelia thought, ''A call boy? This must be the first time Keh has been treated as one in his life.


    Emily believed Ophelia was just putting on a brave front, swiping her phone screen to find a photo of Ophelia with a young man from behind. She thought, "With this photo as evidence, how can she argue her way out of this?"


    Several actors gathered around to look at the photo, gasping in astonishment.


    Someone said seriously, "Oh my! So, there really is an old man living at Rosewood Manor. I heard he''s both old and perverted.


    Someone elsemented. "Things obtained through men will neverst long."


    Another expressed concern. "Mr. Martin, our production won''t be stopped midway due to funding issues, will it? After all, if the truthes out, all our investments could be reimed."


    William frowned, ncing briefly at the photo on Emily''s phone, thinking, ''Is this shadow the man? How could a man with such presence possibly be a call boy? What a joke! Although I don''t know the whole story, so I cannot judge, I can''t just believe the nonsense like these fools'' Seeing that William''s expression had changed, a flicker of triumph crossed Emily''s eyes as she thought, ''Once the scandal about the founder of La Reverie gets out, that old man won''t just sit back and watch. Everything Ophelia has now will disappear "Didn''t you try it before?" Ophelia suddenly asked.


    19102-Mon, No


    Ophelia''s unexpected question caught Emily off guard. "What?"


    "Didn''t you print out the photo and send it to Rosewood Manor Ophelia thought, "That photo turned out well. Keh liked it very much.


    Before Emily could respond, Ophelia stood up from her chair, faint smile on her face but frost in her eyes. "They found me so I could marry in your ce and get that thirty-million-dor reward. Since the Hastings family is not ashamed to use such a method to gain benefits, why should I be afraid? You can put this online. Let''s see who truly ends up embarrassed."


    Upon hearing this, many people suddenly focused on the main point. Someone asked, "Isn''t she the true heiress of the Hastings family? How could her parents allow their biological daughter to marry such a man?"Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    The grudges between wealthy families areplicated. They''ll do anything for money. They didn''t raise Ophelia from childhood, so they don''t care," someone said sympathetically.


    "How could Emily dare to say that? I thought she was pitiful earlier, but now...she''s clearly taking advantage of the situation while criticizing Ophelia for failing to adhere to moral standard herself. It''s truly disgusting"


    The smugness on Emily''s face vanished in an instant, and she thought, ''How did I unintentionally let Ophelia lead the topic? I only meant to threaten her with the photo. I never intended to bring this matter up in front of so many people."


    Emily quickly pulled back her phone. "No, it''s not like that. Are you all dumbasses? She is the one who cheated with a call boy. She is morally corrupt. Why are you criticizing me without knowing the full story?" Anger surged through Emily, and she let slip some insulting words that offended everyone present


    People began to attack Emily. "You''re the dumb one! If we believe your nonsense, we should truly be foolish."


    "You scheming woman, hurry up and get lost. Don''t waste our time."


    "What we said has nothing to do with you. Just take care of your own business. Have you resolved the dirt on you online?"


    At that moment, Emily was treated like a hated enemy, everyone wanting her gone. She could only feel her cheeks burning! wanting to leave this ce quickly. But her legs felt weak, and she stumbled, ending up kneeling right in front of Ophelia.


    "I didn''t ask you to kneel and apologize. There''s no need for that Ophelia replied in a calm tone.


    "Hahaha..." Laughter erupted around them. Filled with anger and humiliation, Emily clenched her fists, getting up from the ground and preparing to attack Ophelia. But before she could reach her, two security guards suddenly appeared and grabbed her arms. "Who are you? Let go of me! Ophelia!" Emily struggled desperately, feeling like her arms were about to be crushed by the two massive men, cold sweat breaking out on her forehead. Meanwhile, Ophelia remainedposed and at ease, looking at her as if she were an


    ant.


    Frustrated and furious, Emily thought, ''Ophelia, how dare you look at me like that!" Suddenly, she noticed a ne. peeking out from Ophelia''s neckline. It felt like lightning struck her, and all her senses seemed to vanish.


    Emily thought, "That''s Moon & Star! Keh spent 50 million dors at the charity auction to buy it. How could it possibly be around this bitch''s neck? No way! Ophelia could never climb up to a person like Keh in her entire life. I must be mistaken! It must be! Otherwise, the ne she''s wearing is definitely fake. Yes, that must be it!


    Just as Emily was lost in her thoughts, Ophelia spoke coldly. Throw her out."


    "Yes, ma''am. The two security guards immediately dragged Emily out of the filming location.


    "Let go of me, let go of me... Emily''s cries of struggle faded as she was taken away, and the set returned to tranquility.


    Everyone looked at Ophelia again, their gazes filled with a different kind of emotion.


    When Emily awkwardly returned to thepany, shepletely broke down. The office building of Sungate


    Entertainment had been vandalized with red paint on the walls, covered in insults like "Emily get out of the entertainment industry" and "Emily go to hell".


    Nathan had already gone to the police station to file a report. With all this happening, Emily could no longer stay at thepany. She hurried to the underground par

 Jilted Bride 69

    Emily''s car had just left the parking lot when suddenly, a bucket of yellow liquid fell from above, sttering all over her windshield. Startled, she mmed on the brakes. A foul stench wafted toward her.


    This time, Emily''s actions were too disgraceful and had angered many people. She felt fear for the first time, quickly locking the doors and trembling as she drove the car, covered in disgusting filth, to a car wash. As a result, this incident made it to the news.


    By the afternoon, Emily received a call from Sophia. "Emily, I was busy in the morning and didn''t hear your call. I know what happened. I''ve already sent someone to handle it. You should take some time off, and once the online uproar dies down, I''ll help you find other opportunities."


    Sophia''s tone was gentle and calm, but Emily wasn''t having any of it. "You want me to wait? Do you have any idea what 1 went through this morning? I was doused with excrement! It''s all your fault for getting me this role. Just stay out of my business!"


    "Watch your words! Sophia has been busy with your matters all this time. How can you me her?" Owen''s deep voice came through the phone.


    "It''s fine. Owen. Don''t me Emily. She''s still young. It''s my failure as a mother." Sophia''s voice carried a hint of tears.


    Emily found it quite ironic as she listened.


    You need to apologize online. During this time, I will spend money to polish your image, and once the fuss passes, you can reappear before the public with a fresh persona," Sophia continued. Reluctantly, Emily agreed, thinking. It looks like there''s no other choice now."


    On Monday, the wig and makeup wax Ophelia ordered online arrived. She knew that good makeup could work wonders, so she learned a few techniques from the makeup artist on set yesterday. However, she was not aiming for a morous look but rather for an ordinary one, the kind that would make her blend in with the crowd.


    Arriving at the stock market, Ophelia looked like apletely different person. She wore ck-framed sses, had ear-length short hair, and was dressed in in clothing. Since she walked in, no one had noticed her.


    Ophelia pushed up her ck sses, staring intently at a stock on therge screen, thinking, This is it, Glorious Union, a medical devicepany.


    This stock had made the news more than once in her previous life. She frequently heard Owen mention it, and to have more topics with him, she had specifically kept an eye on it, so she was very familiar with its development trends from beginning to end.


    The reason it had made the news was that its price fluctuations were like a roller coaster, rising and falling dramatically. Since it was listed, this stock had been declining, currently priced at 3.5 dors, meaning that almost everyone who had bought it at the beginning had lost money. Consequently, investors neglected the stock.


    Using Lisa''s ID card, Ophelia opened an ount and bought up all the outstanding shares of this stock. Her actions did not immediately attract attention. It was not until the next afternoon, when the stock suddenly rose to 5.3 dors, that many people''s interest was piqued.


    "Wow, who bought so many shares of Glorious Union all at once? someone


    eximed.


    Suddenly, the trading volume of Glorious Union reached the top spot, with an astonishing turnover rate.


    58


    "That person must have inside information. We should hold onto the stocks we have," a man suggested.


    "Forget it. I''ve held this stock for over half a year, and it has been declining. Now that it has finally risen, I need to sell quickly. Who knows if this is just a temporary spike?" another replied.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    As these people sold their stocks, Ophelia bought them. On the second and third days, the stock continued to rise, having reached seven dors, and those who had sold earlier regretted their decision immensely.


    People who were watching began to buy shares of Glorious Unich. Whenever someone bought, Ophelia sold.


    By the time Friday''s market closed, the stock plummeted, dropping from seven dors to three dors.


    On the following Monday, the stock continued its downward trend, with some people choosing to sell while others waited. Once it fell to 2.3 dors, those who had bought in just to follow the trend finally could not hold on any longer and started selling. Meanwhile, Ophelia was frantically buying more shares to lower her average cost.


    Glorious Union made it to the financial news for the first time, and Ophelia earned a significant profit from this single stock.


    The television in the office of Hastings Group yed thetest financial report as Harry stood in front of Owen''s desk.


    "Tasked


    you to contact thepany behind Ophelia. How''s it going?" Owen turned off the TV, tossing the remote onto the desk as he leaned back in his chair.


    "Dad, I think there''s a way to resolve this without contacting her Harry replied.


    After more than a week, Owen was no longer as angry as at the start. He exhaled, but his brow remained furrowed. "Fine, then tell me how you n to resolve it."


    Harry took out a nning document. "Although the price of thisnd exceeded our expectations, if we develop a n and start construction to realize its value as fast as we can, we might lose some profit but will still make money."


    Owen flipped through the materials, feeling somewhat pleased. He thought, ''At least he is trying. This n is quite detailed! It must have taken severalte nights to put together. He nced up at Harry and noticed dark circles under his eyes, which eased Owen''s previous anger. He thought, ''Let that lost profit be Harry''s tuition fee


    ''However, the funds originally allocated for developing thisnd have been used to cover thend purchase gap, so I will need to take out a loan for part of it. But in less than two months I will receive the remaining 30 million dors from Rosewood Manor, so I won''t suffer too much loss.


    Harry had his own ns in mind. He secretly resolved to handle this matter well and not disappoint Owen again. Upon returning to his office, Harry opened hisputer, and the first financial news article he saw was about Glorious Union''s stock. Initially, he didn''t pay much attention to it, but he suddenly recalled that when bidding in front of the hotel, Ophelia had mentioned earning some money through stock trading


    Harry thought, "That''s how she got the seven million dors to invest in Christopher''spany? If she can earn money even with her clumsiness, why don''t I give it a try? Once I earn back the lost 30 million dors, my father will surely look at me differently


    Harry hired a stock analyst and invested in several stocks, but after a week, there was no change in his fortunes. Meanwhile, Ophelia continued to manage her investment in Glorious Union, averaging purchases at just over two dors.


    She thought. If I remember correctly, this stock has three opportunities left for this type of increase. That means I still have three chances to make money and put the bait.


    The stock market worked like this. Some individuals could seize the moment and profit handsomely, while others ended up. losing everything.


    Mon, NoV


    This time, Glorious Union-broke through the highest price of


    Harry clicked on the article. [One major investor had bought i After this surge, he''s now sitting on at least 10 million dors.


    Harry felt intrigued. "Andy, find a way to contact that guy."

 Jilted Bride 70

    K58%E


    On the weekend, when Keh came back, he brought some desserts with him. Each one was exquisite, adorned with the "Yee Cake" logo, which featured a super cute little fox surrounded by a circle of green leaves.


    The Yee Cake dessert chain officially opened that day. Ophelia fell in love with this logo at first sight. The desserts were all her favorites.


    While she are, she busily worked on her design drafts, and Keh focused on his work as well. They both sat in the study. one at theputer and the other on the sofa by the French widlow. Even if they just sat like that, as long as they could see each other, they felt warm.


    After a while, Ophelia finished her dessert, and the design draft was almostplete. Seeing that Keh was still busy, she got up and went downstairs to make him a cup of coffee.. The white coffee cup sat on the gray desk.


    "Keh, when you finish your workter, could you teach me How to invest in stocks?" Ophelia looked like a good student. The light blue knit sweater entuated her delicate skin. Keh''s stern brows gradually rxed. He wrapped his arm around Ophelia''s waist and effortlessly pulled her onto hisp. his gaze towards her filled with curiosity.


    "I need to learn some skills to impress people," she said. In fact, Ophelia could learn on her own. She just wanted him to feel how much she needed him.


    "Okay, but you have to pay ''tuition," Keh teased.


    Ophelia knew it wouldn''t be that easy.


    Keh lifted her onto the desk, and kisses rained down on her. Their bodies fit together perfectly.


    After paying the "tuition", Ophelia didn''t have the energy to study anymore.


    The next morning, on her way to the stock market, Ophelia heard a radio broadcast from the taxi.


    Recently, thergest financial group, Sinir Group, opened up a bunch of Michelin-chain dessert restaurants. In the past year, they''ve really nailed it with their investments, seeing solid returns in just three months. Perhaps the dessert market is the blue ocean project of the future...


    The taxi driver smacked his lips. "Wow, Keh is really something, a tough character. He earns all the money by himself. Wemon folks don''t stand a chance. All the money goes to those big shots" Ophelia sat quietly in the backseat.


    The driver had a point. The Heloria society was severely ss-based, with financial groups monopolizing various industries and controlling over eighty percent of the wealth resources in Heloria. Ordinary people hardly had a chance to turn their situation around. In fact, most countries were like this, which was why there was a stock securities market.


    Yet very few retail investors could truly make money. They mostly survived off the tiny scraps left behind by the big fish.


    Upon arriving at the stock exchange, Ophelia received a phone call. "Hello, I''m Harry, the general manager of Hastings Group.


    Ophelia hung up directly.


    Harry was taken aback for a few seconds, then called again twice, finally getting blocked. Chapter 70 58%


    Mr. Hastings, I heard he often trades at the East Bridge Stock Exchange Center. Should we try our luck?" Andy suggested.


    Harry sighed and thought, That''s all we can do now. He had consulted analysts, and that person was no simple character. He had a knack for spotting stock trends. He thought, If he could work for me, I''d have a real shot at making money?


    Harry appeared at the entrance of the stock trading center in an expensive suit, apanied by his male secretary, Andy. who was in his thirties. Most of the clients here were middle-aged or older.


    Harry entrusted Andy with the task of finding the Stock Deity and sat down to look for a spot. However, upon seeing the people around him, he showed his disdain.


    Andy asked a client manager, "Hello, may I ask if the GU Stock Deity is here today?"


    "Of course, she is in our VIP room, but many people want to meet her," the client manager replied with a troubled expression.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Andy was resourceful and slipped arge amount of cash into the manager''s pocket.


    The manager immediately said, "This way, please."


    Andy turned to look at Harry, who stood up from his seat, adjusted his suit, and went to the VIP room together.


    Just then, three middle-aged women came out from inside.


    One said, "The Stock Deity is so amazing. The stock she rmended to me before increased today, and the two stocks she told me to sell all dropped today. She really knows how to predict."


    Another agreed, "Yeah, I was nning to sell the two stocks that kept falling in my hands, but she told me not to. I ended up making over a hundred thousand dors."


    "Let''se back tomorrow. We should buy her some gifts."


    "How about a gold bar?"


    Hearing their conversation, Harry felt reassured. But he had no idea that the three women were actors hired by Ophelia for thirty dors an hour.


    Pushing open the door to the VIP room, Harry saw the legendary ''GU Stock Deity", and she looked nothing like he had imagined.


    She was a woman, a bit overweight, dressed from head to toe in cheap, low-quality clothes. Her features were plump and ordinary, and she wore outdated ck-rimmed sses. The only thing that really stood out was her long, beautiful hands. Seeing her hands, Harry thought, ''Well, everyone has to have some merits.


    Andy exchanged a few words with Ophelia, but Harry didn''t even nce at her, his face full of disdain, feeling even sick at the thought of looking at her again.


    "I thought the person who called a few


    days ago was a scammer Ophelia said. She had learned to change her voice from Sharon, so Harry did not recognize it as Ophelia''s voice.


    After seeing such a "Stock Deity", both Harry and Andy looked at her with doubtful and scrutinizing eyes.


    Ophelia adjusted her sses and made some usible spections, simr to what the analyst Harry hired had said. But for some reason, they felt that this unremarkable woman made more sense.


    "I believe ''GU'' still has a lot of profit potential. If you want to test my ability, why don''t we invest in ''GU'' together and see?" Ophelia suggested.

 Jilted Bride 71

    Stock trading was like this. If one hesitated over an opportunity, he would feel like he missed out on a huge fortune. After all, that money could have been in his pocket, but sadly, it was lost.


    When Harry met Ophelia again, he changed his attitude towards her, bing extremely respectful, as if he had encountered a creator. "Madam, do you have any other stock rmendations?" Ophelia knew that the fish had taken the bait.


    Ophelia canceled Lisa''s ount, returned to Rosewood Manor, and gave Lisa argemission. Besides that, she also made Lisa a dress.


    "Miss Spencer, this is too extravagant. This dress must have cost a lot." Previously, when Lisa had gone to deliver food to Ophelia, she had overheard them saying that a dress could cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of dors. She couldn''t afford such an expensive gift. This one is not expensive. I heard your son is getting married soon. You can wear it to their wedding. Ophelia said.


    It was a crimson dress, elegantly conservative in style, embroidered with intricate rose patterns.


    Lisa was astonished and touched that Ophelia remembered what she had mentioned in passing. "Taking care of you is my responsibility. Mr. Sinir has already paid me a high sry. If I ept your money and gifts, it truly would be..." "This is tailored to your size, so please ept it. You know my dresses are all custom-made. If you don''t take it, I can''t give it to anyone else," Ophelia insisted.


    Ophelia understood that not everyone would trust someone unconditionally. Lisa was willing to lend her identity information. Lisa''s trust in her could not bepared to a dress, and epting the dress was merely a small token of her gratitude. With Ophelia saying so, Lisa had no choice but to ept. After receiving it, her eyes were filled with joy. "Shall I try it on?" "Sure. Ophelia nodded, feeling happy to see Lisa''s delight.


    After dinner, Ophelia returned to her room and leaned against the couch with aptop on herp, typing away on the keyboard.


    Unknowingly, she lost track of time until Lisa reminded her, "Miss Spencer, you should go to bed early. It''s already midnight. Mr. Sinir probably won''te back tonight."


    "Alright, I will sleep right away. Ophelia got up and nced at the courtyard entrance through the floor-to-ceiling window. The flowers outside had already fallen in this season. In another month, winter would arrive.


    Ophelia had been reborn for almost half a year. "Time really flies; she thought as she got up to take a shower, changing into gray long pants and a long-sleeved nightgown.


    As Ophelia stepped out of the bathroom with damp hair, a shadow enveloped her body. A familiar chill entered her nostrils, carrying a hint of autumn''s cold.


    "I thought you weren''ting back tonight," Ophelia said without realizing that a smile of happiness curved her lips while saying


    "Why are you still awake sote? Not behaving. Keh remarked as he looked at her.


    14:52 Mon Nov 11 I


    Chapter 70-


    Her words struck a chord with Harry, and they quickly came to an agreement.


    959%


    Next, the stock Glorious Union presented an unfathomable trend. Even the analyst Harry hired couldn''t read it. Whenever he wanted to sell, the stock would always rise back the next day


    In just a week, the one hundred thousand dors Harry initially invested had already multiplied several times. Once he tasted the sweetness of sess, he could not hold back.


    Ophelia learned about several stocks that were expected to rise gnificantly from Keh, and then she told Harry about


    this news


    Harry was always very cautious and would ask the analyst he had hired first. Because Ophelia''s approach was too unconventional, he hesitated and missed several opportunities to make a lot of money.


    Ophelia exuded the refreshing scent of shower gel, with a gray strap showing from her clothes against her snow-white skin. "I was busy with something"


    Keh took off his coat, grabbed the towel from her hands, and helped her dry her hair. He lowered his gaze to her, seemingly sensing the emotions hidden in her eyes. "You can''t sleep when I''m not here?"


    He actually guessed it, Ophelia thought, lifting her gaze. "Sort of I always think about where someone with such strong desires would be if not in my bed. The shadows cast by her eyshes fell across Ophelia''s clear eyes as she stared at him without blinking. "Where do you think I would be?" Keh felt as if his heartstrings were being gently tugged. He held the towel against her wet hair, pressed her against the wall, and lowered his head to capture her soft lips.


    His deep, swirling eyes seemed to want to suck Ophelia''s soul in Keh held her hand tightly above her head, and he began to take charge.


    Ophelia smiled like a sly fox, "Sorry, Mr. Sinir, but I got my period."


    Keh froze for a moment. Ophelia looked at him innocently. He thought, ''Well, no wonder she dared to flirt with me so boldly.


    From Ophelia''s perspective, she could only see Keh''s rising chest under his ck shirt. "The medicine you sent really did the trick," she said. The pain during her period had noticeably decreased. However, her cycle was still irregr, and she never knew when it would catch her off guard. Keh bit down on her lips as if venting his frustrations, and the fire in his eyes gradually faded. He took a hairdryer and held Ophelia in his arms, drying her hair.


    Warm air blew from above her head. Keh''s defined fingers worked through her hair, drying it little by little. "Thank you." Ophelia turned around, wrapped her arms around Keh''s neck, and nted a kiss on his cheek.


    "I won''t ept that. I only ept payment with your body," Keh replied.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow,ughing mischievously.


    In recent days, Keh returned at irregr intervals. Even if he came backte sometimes, he would still stay and sleep with her. Ophelia felt that her sleep had improved recently.


    The next day was the weekend. Early in the morning, Chloe called Ophelia. Usually, Chloe wouldn''t interrupt her weekend time with Keh unless there was something urgent. Keh was still sleeping, and because of the phone''s vibrations, he furrowed his brow and held her tightly.


    "Hey, Keh, I need to pee," Ophelia struggled to say.


    "Hold it in." Although Keh said this, he still loosened his gripa little.


    Ophelia crawled out from under the nket and took her phone to the bathroom to call Chloe back. "What''s wrong?" she asked, most worried that something happened with Wyatt.


    "The batch of rough stones we ordered had problems. The emeralds arrived, but the others were bought by someone at a high price." Chloe exined


    Hearing that it wasn''t rted to Wyatt, Ophelia sighed in relief.


    Dresses needed gemstone essories for embellishment, so Ophelia primarily sourced various rough stones. Buying in


    bulk kept the prices low, but the quality could be all over the ce.


    "Do you know who it was?" Ophelia asked.


    "It seems to be Fashion Ladies under Lewis Group, Chloe replied.


    Ophelia thought, Fashion Ladies? It''s them again.


    Since Brock was exposed to giarism and subsequentlymitted suicide due to the scandal, his once-glorious reputation was revealed to be fabricated. Thus, Fashion Ladies'' business had been declining day by day, without any noteworthy new designs.


    58%


    ¦°


    Recently, La Reverieunched a n for custom jewelry in the one series, and Fashion Ladies imitated this by offering free matching jewelry to previous customers to profit from their old clientele. Now, they were even starting to snatch Ophelia''sContent property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    resources.


    "They called and asked us toe for a discussion this afternoon, but Wyatt has a check-up scheduled this week, Chloe said awkwardly.


    "It''s fine. You take Wyatt to his check-up. I will handle this matter Ophelia said before hanging up. The bathroom door opened from the outside, and when Ophelia turned around, she saw an enchanting sight


    Keh stood at the door, shirtless. His physique was impressive-broad shoulders with defined muscles but not overly bulky. The tattoo on his left chest shifted with his breathing, making him exceptionally sexy. Beneath his tousled hair was a ssically handsome face chiseled like a sculpture.


    Ophelia uncontrobly swallowed hard, thinking. ''Is it really necessary to be this stimting so early in the morning?"


    0

 Jilted Bride 72

    "Wipe your drool," Keh reminded her with augh.


    Ophelia instinctively touched the corner of her mouth. Keh grinned teasingly at her. "If you like my muscles, I''ll show you every day."


    Ophelia nodded, thinking, I can''t get enough of him anyway.


    During breakfast, Ophelia nced at the time. "Do you have ns today? You can''t apany me for the weekend, can you?" She had secretly checked Keh''s schedule earlier. He was going on a business trip to Shinova this weekend. She wanted to bring it up first to dodge any potential "tantrum" from him.


    You seem happy with it?" Keh sipped his coffee, his sharp eyes narrowing as he scrutinized her.


    I''m not. Ophelia lowered her head, pretending to look unhappy. "You promised that the weekend would be mine."


    "Alright, then I''ll call Mark and have him go alone." With that, Keh picked up his phone to dial.


    "Wait...don''t," Ophelia leaned forward, quickly pressing down on his hand. "You spent the past weekends with me, and Mark has had it tough enough."


    "Are you sure you want to pity other men in front of me? Hmm Keh lifted Ophelia''s chin, looking straight into her


    eyes.


    At that moment, Mark entered through the door, wearing a light gray wool coat. He had styled his hair differently, with deep brown strands shimmering in the sunlight. "Mr. Sinir, the ne is ready."


    Seeing the intimate posture between Ophelia and Keh at the dining table, Mark realized he hade at the wrong time. When his gaze met Keh''s, he felt a chill run down his back. He thought, Please don''t send me alone again.''


    During this period, Mark had been working tirelessly, handling all matters. Although he received a doubled annual sry, he feared he might not make it. He looked at Ophelia with a pleading expression.


    Ophelia had already mastered the skills of soothing Keh. She had not noticed before how easy it was to soothe him. A simple kiss could calm him down. She leaned in as if no one was around and kissed Keh softly on his thin lips, a smile curving her mouth into an alluring line.


    Til miss you. Come back early. I think that dark red tie looks best on you. Just as Ophelia was about to get up, Keh wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her onto hisp.


    Keh''s palm rested on the back of her neck as he gazed at her lips, which had traces of milk on them. His Adam''s apple bobbed as he kissed Ophelia''s milky-scented lips, fiercely iming her breath, making it hard for them to part.


    After the kiss, Keh smiled lightly, resembling a Maine Coon cat that had just been petted. He nced dismissively at Mark.


    Mark thought, ''Is he showing off to me, a single guy? Keh, have a little sympathy, okay


    Ophelia obediently helped Keh tie his tie, watching him put on his ck coat and fixing his cor. "Be safe ande back early." She was willing to repeat this phrase for this life until the end of her days. As long as he was by her side, she felt the inner peace despite the chaos around them.


    After Keh left, Ophelia changed her clothes to prepare for a trip to Mineroca. She took a ck SUV from Rosewood Manor''s garage. She remembered that Keh had driven this car when he visited her at the studio." 14:52 Mon, Nov 11


    "Miss Spencer, are you going out?" Lisa asked worriedly,ing out to see Ophelia driving for the first time.


    "Yes, I''ll be back tonight," Ophelia replied.


    Then please be careful"


    "Okay," Ophelia smiled and gave Lisa a reassuring look.


    58%


    Dressed in ck sportswear with her hair pulled back in a high ponytail, Ophelia exuded a casual elegance. With transparent gray sunsses, her unmade-up face was lit up by the growing smile in her clear, bright eyes. Ophelia first drove to the studio to pick up some documents. Chloe had been managing this batch of rough stones, and Ophelia hadn''t participated much. "Cameo Charm? That name sounds familiar, she pondered.


    For a moment, Ophelia couldn''t recall anything. She took the documents and rode the elevator down to the underground parking lot. After just a few steps, she sensed someone following her. She let out a muffledugh and quickly hid behind car at the next corner. The man, shrouded in darkness, was lean, with slightly curly, long hair tied to the back of his head. He walked slowly into the light, wearing a ck hooded sweatshirt and dark green cargo pants, his handsome face exuding a casual charm. Ophelia had to admit that Eric''s looks were good enough to be an idol.


    Clearing her throat, Ophelia stepped out from behind the car. Eric clearly had no intention of hiding. Otherwise, she would not have been able to spot him.


    You''re not here to take another job to kill me, are you?" Ophelia joked.


    "Then why aren''t you running?" Ericughed, revealing a pair of sharp canine teeth.


    Ophelia smiled and thought, ''If he really came to kill me, would I still be standing here safe and sound?"


    "I came to give you a gift, soe with me," Eric said.


    "A gift?" Ophelia followed him as he walked toward the back of the parking lot, where few cars were parked, winding through the area


    Eric approached a dust-covered junk car.


    "Um... Umm..." A faint voice came from inside the car. Ophelia raised an eyebrow, looking at him in confusion.


    Eric opened the trunk, and a strong smell of paint assaulted her senses.


    Ophelia covered her nose and saw a man tightly bound and curled up inside the trunk, covered in paint, with tape mouth and a pale face. "What''s going on?" over his


    "There''s another one," Eric said as he opened the back door, revealing another man inside, also bound and smelling of paint.


    "People around here are strange. They eithermit suicide, or theye to renovate your shop, and it''s always in the dead of night," Eric added.


    "What do you mean?" Ophelia squinted at Eric, staring at him intently, and suddenly seemed to think of something


    The man in the back seat squirmed like a maggot, his mouth making sounds in a desperate attempt tomunicate, sweating profusely.


    Eric stepped forward and ripped the tape off the man''s mouth. Just as the man tried to yell for help, be instantly felt a cold sensation around his neck. 14:52 Mon, Nov 11 sati.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    "Shh. I can''t control my strength, Eric said innocently.


    58%


    The man was so frightened that he dared not move. After swallowing a few times, he finally managed to speak. "Someone paid us to throw paint in front of La Reverie. L... We were wrong, and we won''t dare again. Please let us go. You can even hand me over to the police. We''ll turn ourselves in Eric locked them in this dark ce without food or water, and with the pungent smell of paint, their bodies were pushed to their limits. They could not endure it any longer.


    Seeing them in such a condition, Ophelia knew they must have been held for more than one night.


    The man in the trunk desperately moved his body. Suddenly, he crashed down onto the concrete floor like a sack, letting out a whimpering sound.


    Ophelia cautiously nced around. Just hand them over two men would likely disappear without a trace.


    to the police." She didn''t want Eric to take action. Otherwise, these


    Ophelia also did not want to waste words with them. She already knew who was behind this without asking. Even if she did ask, these twockeys might not know who had instructed them tomit the crime.


    The shopping center was covered in surveince cameras, and the evidence was solid. Those two wouldn''t be able to deny it. She just worried about Eric''s reckless behavior.

 Jilted Bride 73

    ChapterContent property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    73


    Ophelia asked the security guard to pull up the surveince footage from that night and handed the matter over to the shopping center''s management.


    "If it weren''t for this young man, we would have both suffered losses" Ophelia stated seriously before turning to Eric.


    The manager repeatedly thanked Eric after hearing this. After all, if the paint incident had truly urred, the mall would not only facergepensation costs but also potential damage to its reputation, possibly risking his job as well.


    Ophelia checked the time, realizing she needed to hurry to Mineroca that afternoon, so she didn''t pursue the matter further. As she returned to the underground parking lot, she finally voiced her lingering question. "Do you know about the incident when Brock came to my store andmitted suicide?"


    Eric had his hands in his pockets and nodded, his bangs moving slightly. "Yeah, so I helped you guys take care of it." His tone was light, as if he were discussing dealing with an animal rather than a person.


    Ophelia realized she had wronged Keh. She had always thought Keh was the one who killed Brock, but it turned out it was Eric.


    Ophelia stopped in her tracks and turned to look at Eric. "You seem to have been around us a lottely. Are you nning to keep living in that junk car?" She had noticed signs of life inside the junk car earlier.


    Ophelia suggested, "How abouting to be my security guard? You can also be my driver and help Chloe take care of Wyant. I''ll provide food and lodging" Seeing he remained silent, Ophelia didn''t push him. "Think it over."


    "Is it a good pay?" Eric blinked his crystal-clear eyes, asking in a tone reminiscent of a child querying whether a toy was expensive.


    "It''s definitely not more than what you earn now, but it''s stable. Since no one knows you and your adoptive father is gone. why not change your life?"


    Eric froze for a moment, his eyes questioning. "How do you know he''s gone?" He had never mentioned this, and they hadn''t. lived in the slums for a long time. His adoptive father was skilled at disguise. No one would know their whereabouts.


    "If he were around, could you be this free right now? Besides, I genuinely need someone with your skills as a helper."


    "Freedom..." Eric murmured, thinking. I''m like an elephant in a circus, having learned to ''perform'' since childhood. Even if I''m no longer bound, I don''t know how to run.


    "I''m heading to Mineroca. Come with me." Ophelia was tired of talking to Eric and directlymanded him.


    "Okay"


    Mineroca, also known as Gem City, was a second-tier city near Denex, about a three-hour drive away. With countless mineral veins around, it attracted many tourists and investors, bing thergest gemstone trading hub in the country. After getting off the highway, they gradually entered the downtown, where Ophelia began to appreciate the local culture.


    Every street and alley was filled with gemstone shops, with everyone eagerly peering through the ss, anticipating new rough stones emerging.


    Since gemstones were covered in dust when extracted, even experienced buyers found it difficult to determine the quality of the stones with the naked eye. Only close inspectionsbined with machines could reveal their specific quality.


    The prices of rough stones varied. Higher-quality stones came at a higher cost. And at gemstone auctions, it was all about


    luck-you could either tose everything or strike it rich overnight


    After parking the car, Ophelia nned to walk around with Eric nearby, as there was still some time before the scheduled meeting.


    The people from Cameo Charm likely didn''t want to make the trip in vain, so they arranged for Ophelia to meet with those from Fashion Ladies to drive up the price of that batch of goods.


    Ophelia thought. "They really know how to do business.


    Many stores had ss disys showcasing various uncut rough stones. Some shops even offered live cutting demonstrations, drawing crowds of onlookers.


    With a lollipop in her mouth, Ophelia twirled it between her teeth, curiously ncing inside.


    "Not those ones. They''re all fake and deceptive, Eric remarked, his hands stuck in his pockets as he casually nced, chewing gum.


    You know about this?" Ophelia asked.


    "I once killed a gemstone dealer," Eric said seriously, not feeling anything inappropriate about his statement.


    "Uh...okay" Ophelia checked the address of the store Chloe ordered from, which was nearby and famous for having the highest rate of high-quality gemstones in Mineroca.


    Ophelia pushed her sunsses up to her forehead and bit down on her lollipop, the strong green apple vor filling her mouth and lifting her spirits. However, just as she raised her head, she saw an unpleasant figure approaching. Ophelia thought, "The person responsible for purchasing rough stones at Fashion Ladies is actually Miles. Sometimes, fate works in strange ways.


    Miles wore a brown coat, was tall and long-legged, and was followed by a few people. When he spotted Ophelia, his eyes lit up, eager to greet her, only to realize Ophelia ignored him and walked straight into Cameo Charm. Inside the bright and spacious hall, ss disy cases showcased a stunning array of rough stones in all sorts of shapes and colors, each priced in the millions of dors.


    In several separate inspection rooms, a group of staff attended to clients. The tables were filled with rough stones, and


    angle. several people examined them with shlights and magnifying sses from every


    Ophelia and Eric entered one after the other, dressed like high school students, not resembling businesspeople here to buy. causing the store staff to overlook them. When Miles stepped in, the sharp-eyed staff immediately stood up to wee him. "Mr. Lewis, wee. Please wait a moment. I''ll get my boss for you." Miles nodded slightly and nced at the ignored Ophelia before turning to instruct his assistant and expert to wait while he headed toward Ophelia. "Elia." Ophelia was admiring the rough stones


    the ss disy when she heard Miles'' voice behind her. In her previous life.


    upon hearing Miles gently call her name, she would have been ecstatic. However, now she felt nauseous, sensing that her name had been tainted by him. Impatiently, Ophelia turned around, her beautiful eyes shimmering with coldness


    "Elia, I really didn''t expect you to get this far for me," Miles

 Jilted Bride 74

    Miles scrutinized Ophelia. Once, she had only eyes for him, and he didn''t believe her attitude could change so quickly.


    He thought. She must have heard that I wasing, which is why she followed me here. She has done so much before. I used to find it annoying, but now it strangely gives me a sense of achievement. So he assumed she was just pretending to be calm


    "Elia, you really surprised me. I admire your excellence. Come work for me, and I will provide you with the best tform. Then we won''t be inpetition anymore," Miles said passionately as if their new rtionship would lead to a different oue.


    Ophelia couldn''t help butugh, thinking. Is he really that out of touch? Does he think I designed dresses and enteredpetitions just to get his attention?"


    Ophelia crushed the candy in her mouth, her smile fading. "Miles, are you insane? You think I did everything for you? Who do you think you are? I''ve never met anyone so full of themselves. The best tform for me? You overestimate yourself!" "Ophelia, stop ying hard to get."


    "Well, you stop being arrogant first."


    Miles furrowed his brow, saying. Fine, maybe I am, but don''t regret this."


    Just then, a middle-aged man with a rounded belly dressed in gray casual clothes came down the stairs, holding a string of


    Wee!" blue agate beads. "Mr. Lewis, I didn''t expect you toe in person.


    Miles'' embarrassed expression eased somewhat as he turned to greet the shop owner, Eden Bernal.


    "May I ask who''s thisdy?" Eden smiled at Ophelia, his gaze implying a close rtionship between her and Miles.


    Ophelia quickly distanced herself from Miles, unable to hide her annoyance. I am the head of SN Entertainment. I previously ordered a batch of rough stones from you, and you said we could discuss it this afternoon," Ophelia briefly exined her purpose. "It''s you," Eden realized, ncing at Ophelia and losing his previous enthusiasm. Then, pleasee with me."


    Eden had his own motives. He had investigated and knew Ophelia and Miles werepetitors, with Miles backed by the powerful Lewis Group, while Ophelia''spany was smaller. He already had an answer in his mind about how to choose. The reason he still involved Ophelia was that he wanted Fashion Ladies to pay more for that batch of materials.


    "Mr. Lewis, this is a good batch. There might even be a top-quality emerald among them."


    Emeralds vary in color from light green to deep green. High-quality emeralds were extremely rare and expensive.


    Miles signaled his expert team, and two experts immediately took out their tools to test the rough stones. They ced the rough stones into a machine for cleaning, and soon, the magma dust was washed away to reveal a brilliant green glow.


    The sixty-something expert pushed up his reading sses and nodded frequently. "Mr. Lewis, thergest one has a deep green color. In my years of experience, I''m pretty sure it is likely a top-quality emerald"


    Upon mentioning emeralds, people nearby turned to look. Emeralds were the most valuable among gemstones, and very few were mined throughout the year, let alone one of such size.


    Suddenly, Ophelia, who had been silent, had a moment of rity. She finally realized why the sight of Cameo Charm felt so familiar. In her previous life, arge emerald came out at Camco Charm at this time, making it onto tie news. She remembered seeing pictures of it, but it didn''t seem to be this shape and size.


    Chapter 74 58%


    "Mr. Lewis, your experts have confirmed that these rough stones are all high-quality materials, so could you possibly. reconsider the price... Many people wanted this batch of goods. Eden said, ncing at Ophelia as if signaling Miles. "You see, she also came for this batch."


    "No problem. I traveled a long way and didn''t want to return empty-handed. I could add two more points," Miles replied, casting a sideways nce at Ophelia.


    Eden smiled widely, his face jiggling with the motion, his eyes almost squinting. He looked back at Ophelia, thinking, ''As long as she raises her price. Mr. Lewis would definitely raise it further.


    "What a pity! They are not meant for me. I did not have Mr. Lewis'' financial support, so I''m giving up, Ophelia smiled brightly, appearingpletely unconcerned.


    Eden''s smile diminished, thinking. I originally wanted to raise the price, but she was too uncooperative. I must be more discerning when looking for buyers next time."


    "These rough stones were ordinary. It was right that you did not buy them. They only looked good but wouldn''t yield any valuable materials, Eric interjected, crossing his arms and speaking seriously.


    At this, Eden''s smile vanished instantly. He shot a look at his subordinate nearby.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    The subordinate immediately understood. "Don''t speak nonsense. Throughout all of Mineroca, only Cameo Charm had top-quality rough stones. Countless top gemstones were from us. Don''t be jealous just because you can''t get them."


    "We didn''t feel jealous at all," Eric said, chewing gum and snapping his fingers. "I bet these rough stones weren''t top-tier emeralds. What do you think, Elia?" Eric nudged Ophelia with his shoulder.


    Ophelia thought, ''I believe we might be beaten up. Despite thinking this, she nodded in agreement, saying, "I think you were right." She gambled that Miles'' low character wouldn''t bring him such good luck.


    Eden''s expression darkened, instructing his subordinate to kick Ophelia and Eric out. "Hurry up and leave. Don''t force us to/ call security"


    "Mr. Bernal, don''t get angry. They were two outsiders. There was no need to hold a grudge against them," Miles said, already having his assistant take out a check.


    Miles pleaded for Ophelia, and Eden could not disregard his face


    Once both parties signed the order, Miles had his appraisers verify it on the spot.


    Eden''s subordinate found Ophelia and Eric a nuisance. "What are you still doing here? Get lost already. Don''t disrupt us.... Ouch!" He didn''t even get to touch Ophelia before Eric grabbed his hand, catching him off guard and making him wince in pain. Eden furrowed his brow. "What exactly do you want?"


    "Mr. Bernal, where there''s no deal, there''s still courtesy. Since you opened for business, there''s no harm to let us watch, right?" Ophelia maintained a calm demeanor, unfazed regardless of what she heard. Indeed, there was no reason


    to chase away customers when opening for business.


    "Fine, do as you please. You, get them coffee." Eden decided to ignore Ophelia and Erie, thinking, ''Just wait to be pped in the face. This batch of goods would definitely yield emeralds.

 Jilted Bride 75

    Eric released the thug, who immediately brought coffer to Ophelia and Eric. The two sat on the side, drinking coffee while watching Miles assess the stones.


    At that moment, a hoarse voice came from the doorway. "Eden, the rough stones you ordered from my mine have arrived"


    "Sorry, Hansen. All my money went into this batch of rough stones that could yield emeralds. Your mine is just a secondary source and can''t meet my needs anymore. Eden sounded apologetic but his arrogance was still clear. Hansen''s stone quality was not high, and his mine had never produced high-quality gemstones, making the risk of buying from him significant and thus very cheap.


    Hansen Felton spoke in a humble tone. "But we agreed on this, and I even brought them over for you. It''s only more than two hundred thousand dors in total. Mr. Bernal, I still owe the mining fees. Could you be so kind?"


    Hansen thought. The top-quality rough stones Eden bought had to be worth several million dors. Taking out two hundred thousand dors shouldn''t be hard for him, right? Eden has been in this business for many years. How could he possibly be out of money?'' Years ago, Hansen signed a one-sided agreement with Eden to treat his wife''s illness. All rough stones from his mines had to be supplied at low prices to Carneo Charm.


    Eden acted despicably, pressing down profits once and once again. His excuses this time were merely to reduce the prices, yet Hansen still owed others money.


    Eden feigned difficulty, saying, "Our contract states that I have the right to refuse. Hansen, I can''t do anything about it. The stones I''ve taken from you in the past two years have been hard to sell. Isn''t that strange?"


    "Mr. Bernal..." Hansen tried to plead further.


    "Enough, don''t say anymore. You should change careers. The quality of your stones is too low, so apart from me, who else would buy them?"


    Ophelia looked at the heap of rough stones outside the door and then nced at the fewrge stones in Eden''s arms. "Mr. Bernal, how much are these rough stones?" Ophelia asked.


    Eden found it hard to believe that there were fools willing to buy and said, "This is thirty thousand dors, this one is forty thousand dors, and this pile of smaller stones adds up to seventy thousand dors, I suppose." In truth, he had only spent a few thousand dors to buy these rough stones from Hansen.


    "Hansen, I''ll take those in your car as well," Ophelia said.


    When Hansen heard that Ophelia wanted to buy all his rough stones, his eyes lit up, and he earnestly pleaded with Eden to agree to sell them to her. Seeing Eden silent, Hansen sighed. The contract stipted that without Eden''s permission, he couldn''t sell his rough stones to anyone else.


    Ophelia noticed Hansen''s predicament and turned to discuss it with Eden. "How about this, Mr. Bernal? You lend me the appraiser and tools. I''ll give you 200,000 dors for the stones in Hansen''s arms. Then I will pay another 300,000 dors to buy those in the car. This way, you would also have a profit to make.


    Eden still wore that smiley facade. He had initially intended to lower the price further and buy that batch of goods, but now that there was more profit to be made, he felt even happier.


    Eden thought Ophelia was a joke. There were plenty of people who sought bargains, but someone as fearless as Ophelia was truly rare.


    He mused, The gems in these secondary mine stones won''t be worth a hundred thousand dors, yet she''s ready to spend


    five hundred thousand dors. What a fool! But that has nothing to do with me. I''m just here to make money. However, since she was so stupid...


    Eden grinned, his fat shaking as he said, "I think the stones are worth much more than that. Youngdy, you can''t let me lose money" Eden quoted a price, greedily asking for 1.5 million dors.


    Eden smiled, saying, "Hansen signed a contract with me. His rough stones can only be sold to me. The implication was clear. If Ophelia wanted to buy, she had to go through him, and even though Ophelia knew he was deliberately raising prices, she had no choice. Ophelia trusted her memory. In her past life, she had seen news stating that emeralds came from a secondary mine, and the shapes were very simr to those here. "When does your contract expire?"


    "Today happened to be the expiration date. This was thest batch of rough stones, Hansen exined


    "Alright, I agree."


    Everyone in the store looked at Ophelia with strange expressions.


    Someone remarked, "She


    Can''t possibly be crazy enough to spend so much money on a pile of trash, right? Besides, they were all unwashed piles, making it impossible to tell what was inside. Nobody could say what was actually in there. She must have too much money to burn." Miles kindly reminded her, "Elia, don''t act impulsively just because you want to bet against me. You don''t understand gems. It''s very hard for such inferior rough stones to yield high-quality gems.


    Don''t overestimate yourself."


    "You''re truly unreasonable." Miles felt defeated and turned back to focus on his batch of rough stones.


    "Mr. Lewis, this piece has emeralds in it, and the quality is excellent," the appraiser called out.


    "Wow!" The spectators expressed their amazement. Just that one emerald alone boosted Miles'' profits tenfold and more.


    Although emeralds could notpare to more premium stones, they were still considered high-quality gems. Regardless of what kind of essories they were made into, they could sell for a good price.


    Seeing the envious expressions on the faces of those around him, Miles felt quite pleased.


    Everyone focused on how many valuable items could be identified from Miles'' rough stones, ignoring Ophelia entirely. Ophelia paid the money, signed the documents, and called in the youngest appraiser in the store, Jeremy.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Hansen helped Ophelia move the rough stones from the car into the appraisal room. Eden did not skimp on Hansen''s payment. He had earned this money too easily and was thus very grateful to Ophelia. ''She spent so much money. What if she ends up losing everything? Hansen felt somewhat guilty and stood nearby, wanting to see how it would turn out


    One after another, Miles continuously uncovered top-quality gents, while Ophelia''s rough stones turned out to be either worthless rocks or the mostmon low-quality stones that couldn''t fetch a decent price


    Ophelia spent 1.5 million dors on a pile of inferior rough stones, and in the end, the gems identified were worth less than a few thousand dors. Only tworge stones weighing several pounds remained. It was even less likely that good gems could be found among them.


    The crowdughed mockingly. "Miss, there are so many rough stones these inferior ones. You''re really setting yourself up to lose everything"


    this store, but you chose to spend your


    Ophelia calmly drank her coffee, asking Eric, "Do you think the rough stones can yield anything good"


    money on


    Eric nodded. "Of course


    The audienceughed derisively, "Young people love to daydream?


    As soon as he finished speaking, Jeremy excitedly shouted, "Gott, got it!"


    Everyone turned to look at the stone in Jeremy''s hands. Although it wasn''t fully cleaned yet, a faint green glow was already showing through the dust.


    Those surrounding Miles paused as well, unable to help but re over at Ophelia, murmuring, "Could she really have guessed right?"


    A crowd gathered around Ophelia, waiting to see what the stone looked like once the dust was washed away.

 Jilted Bride 76

    Jeremy had just entered the industry, and he became increasingly nervous as the mot identify a top-quality gem, his value would rise significantly. "Don''t be nervous" Ophelia reminded him.


    grew closer. If an appraiser could


    Ophelia''s calm demeanor inspired Jeremy. He took a deep breath, started the machine, and conducted the final wash and polish of the rough stone.


    The entire appraisal room was filled with the sound of the machine in operation. Everyone held their breath, staring intently at the rough stone in Jeremy''s hands.


    Slowly, the rough stone was washed and polished clean. Jeremy held it under the magnifying ss to observe the crystal structure, but the hope in his eyes began to fade little by little. It was just an ordinary piece of green crystal, not emeralds. The onlookers remarked, "I told you so. What good gems could possiblye from inferior rough stones?"Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    "Exactly.


    "Did she really think the goddess of luck was smiling upon her?"


    Jeremy, unwilling to give up, observed again, but the result remained the same.


    "It seems the luck doesn''t favor her. That 15 million dors just went down the drain, the crowdughed mockingly.


    Miles, on the other hand, was returning with a bountiful haul. His batch contained many top-quality gems that could be made into quite a few pieces of jewelry.


    At this point, Miles was left with only thergest stone, which had a corner cut off. When light shone on it, it glowed green from top to bottom.


    "I think this stone is likely filled with emeralds, someone said.


    "You can tell from that small exposed part that the gem inside has a nice orange color. If the whole thing is like that, it would be a huge profit," another person chimed in. When appraising a gem, factors like weight, color, and rity are key. Therger the carat, the more intact the rarer the color, the higher the purity, and the greater the price. gem. The


    Naturally urring gems are the rarest, especially rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds. Among emeralds, the rarest is the highest-purity emerald.


    "Mr. Lewis, I will start now," the appraiser brought by Miles said, eagerly rubbing his hands.


    "Okay" Miles nodded, holding his breath. He had spent seven million dors just on this stone. Those earlier pieces were merely appetizers. If this one could yield high-quality emeralds, he wouldn''t have lost anything. If it yielded an emerald, even if it was just one-fiftieth the size of this rough stone, he could still make over 10 million dors.


    Inside the room, only the sound of the cutting machine was heard. Everyone focused on the rough stone. The appraiser gradually ground away the surfaceyer of the stone, rinsing it with water. He polished all sides of the stone, and green began to shine through


    "I told you it might be entirely made of emeralds." The crowd grew excited, as it was rare to see such arge rough stoneposed entirely of gems.


    "Elia, do you believe that when they cut it open, they will find nothing inside?" Eric spoke with certainty, his voice just loud enough for the group to hear. Mon, Nov


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow


    The crowd saw their expressions as a sign of jealousy.


    "It''s opened!" Everyone stood on tiptoe, stretching their necks to watch as the rough stone was slowly opened. Miles'' heart raced with anticipation.


    As the stone was opened, the crowd''s expectations turned into a collective sigh of disappointment. "Oh no, how could this happen? What a pity..


    The stone shone green on all sides, but when it was cut open, it revealed a mix of various colored stones-no gems in sight. The crowd shook their heads-it was just a shy rock with no real value. Miles'' face fell. Despite having made some money before, it was nowhere near enough to cover the loss from this stone.


    The onlookers murmured regretfully before gradually dispersing.


    Meanwhile, Ophelia was left with only thergest rough stone, which was even bigger than Miles'' piece. Jeremy held little hope. Once it was cut open, it, too, revealed a chaotic mix of green hues.. With 1.5 million dors spent, not a single gem worth even 10 thousand dors had been identified. Ophelia truly faced total


    loss.


    Seeing that Ophelia had uncovered nothing. Miles appeared less dejected.


    Hansen looked at Ophelia with a touch of shame. Unwilling to give up, he shone a shlight on the stone. "Well.."


    Jeremy and Hansen both widened their eyes and exchanged nces. The stone was dynamic and bright, changing with the intensity of the light.


    A few experts cast a casual nce in this direction. "No way. How is this possible?"


    A group gathered around. "This is the first time I''ve seen such arge cat''s eye stone. It must be worth at least 10 million dors. Wait, there''s still a green lighting from the bottom of this stone...


    Someone approached and shone a shlight at the bottom, revealing a red section the size of an orange. After reassessing, Jeremy confirmed, "This is an emerald. This is really an emerald Arge emerald of this size could be worth several hundred million dors. "What?" Miles approached with a cold expression, unable to believe what he saw. His team of experts followed him, bringing magnifying sses to inspect. Thest time they had seen an emerald was a long time ago, and it had been the size of a fingernail. This was the first time they encountered such arge emerald in their lives.


    "Mr. Lewis, this is indeed an emerald. One expert adjusted his sses and said. Moreover, the portion of the rough stone containing dirt and dust was minimal, while the gem material was abundant. Ophelia had made a significant profit.


    Miles felt frustrated, but with the experts confirming it, any further questioning would make him appear foolish. Just moments ago, he had mocked Ophelia for knowing nothing, yet she had obtained such a top-tier gem. He felt his cheeks burn with embarrassment. "She only spent 15 million dors and got arge cat''s eye stone and emerald worth hundreds of millions of dors. How lucky!'' someone eximed. Her initial investment had multiplied several times over.


    "Picking rough stones really is a matter of luck. The speaker couldn''t help but nce at Miles.


    Miles gritted his teeth, thinking, Ophelia has be increasingly unpredictable, always managing to pull off the unexpected. From thestpetition to this purchase of rough stones, it seems everything is within her control. How does she do it? 14:53 Mon, Nov 11


    ¦°


    Eden felt equally indignans, thinking. This girl really is lucky. She got a top-quality emerald from what was supposed to be junk. That rough stone originally belonged to me!'' He felt cheated and simmered with anger.


    He had thought Ophelia was a fool, allowing him to profit from her, only to realize that he was the real fool. He red fiercely at Ophelia, thinking. Does she think she can actually leave Mineroca with those gemstones?

 Jilted Bride 77

    COMMENT


    0


    Ophelia and Eric exchanged nces, both pleased that their trip hadn''t been in vain. She didn''t forget to give Jeremy and Hansen a generous thank-you fee, and before leaving, she asked for Hansen''s contact information, hoping to purchase more rough stones from him in the future.


    Hansen''s contract with Eden expired, and with the emeralding from his mine, he could now establish his own business.


    As the sky gradually darkened, Ophelia drove towards Denex The night hadpletely fallen.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    The car approached the cross-river bridge, and Eric crossed his arms behind his head, rxing against the passenger seat. leisurely sucking on a lollipop. He bit the candy stick and looked at the rearview mirror, grinning. "We have stalkers"


    Ophelia cast a nce in the rearview mirror. She had already spotted two business cars that had been following them since they left Mineroca. They were about to enter the highway, and Ophelia guessed that the group nned to make their move in the tunnel at the end of the bridge.


    "Should we call the police?" Eric suggested for the first time. It was a reasonable idea, but at that moment, it wasn''t very practical. By the time the police arrived, their gems would have already been taken away. The license tes of the two cars. behind them were obviously fake, so the police wouldn''t be able to trace them.


    Every region had a boss, and Eden was the local boss in Mineroc. He dared to suppress his suppliers and citizens publicly, which surely meant he had connections with the police. Reporting to them wouldn''t help.


    "Then I''ll warm up a bit," Eric said, rolling up his pants and pulling out a knife from just below his calf. The sheath opened. revealing a cold de gleaming in the light.


    I''m d you came along today." If Ophelia were alone, she wouldn''t dare to act so recklessly. Ophelia sighed and lowered the sun visor, revealing a ck handgun equipped with a suppressor.


    They soon drove into the tunnel, where the surveince lights had turned off, and only emergency lights flickered. Ophelial parked the car in the emergency stopping area,


    When the two business cars halted, Eric got out and leaned against the car door while Ophelia remained inside, one hand. on the steering wheel, tilting her head to observe them. She chewed bubble gum, blowing arge bubble. "Pop." The bubble burst.


    The business cars blocked them in from both front and back as a group of men jumped out, wielding machetes and steel rods.


    "Miss Spencer, you are fortunate today," a familiar voice called out. It was Eden, sporting that smug smile and ying with beads in his hand. "How abouting over for some coffee? We can have a little chat. I''m not one for violence."


    "Is that so? I didn''t realize you were so civilized. No need for coffee. Just say what you want." Ophelia leaned against the car window, appearing quite amodating.


    Tll return that 1.5 million dors to you if you give me back the gems. You won''t lose anything. If that''s not enough for you, you can pick out some other stones from my shop."


    Eden got straight to the point. He thought, I haven''t directly used force to hurt them, so this is already being merciful. I even let them choose some other gems. They should know when to stop.


    "Mr. Bernal, how about 1 give you another 1.5 million dors to treat your delusions? How could you be foolish enough to make such a request?"


    Eden''s expression stiffened at her retort. "Alright, youngdy, I''ve given you a choice, so don''t me nie." With a nce, he signaled his thugs, who immediately charged towards Ophelia and Eric. 53 Mon, Nov


    Eric yed with his dagger, biting down on the candy and spitting the stick out.


    58%


    Ophelia noticed a shadow darting through the crowd, moving at incredible speed. He grinned, revealing a small tiger tooth as if performing a deadly waltz. "Hey, leave them alive. Ophelia holstered her gun, thinking. "This isn''t even needed.


    Eric approached Eden, pressing a bloodied knife against Eden''s throat. "Your coffee is not good at all."


    "Wh..what?" Eden''s face turned pale with fear, and the beads in his hand fell to the ground. He reached down to pick up gun, only to have Erie kick it away.


    the


    Eden''s face was ashen. He thought, "He is so fast! Just in a blink of an eye!'' Eden could never have expected Eric to be so skillful.


    "By the way, who is Peter Bernal to you?" Eric asked casually.


    Upon hearing the name, Eden trembled heavily. "He was my brother, but he he died a long time ago."


    "You spent 200,000 dors to buy his life, didn''t you?" Eric smiled innocently.


    ''How does he know?'' Eden stared at the young man before him, unable to utter a word, thinking, Tm done,


    At that moment, five ck SUVS approached from a distance, surrounding the area. ck-d bodyguards emerged. holding guns and causing the already injured people on the ground to twitch in fear. Eric rarely disyed vignce. He nced around at the men with guns,


    The leading bodyguard respectfully nodded to Ophelia. Ophelia had crossed paths with him twice before. His name seemed to be Caleb Cooper. The bodyguards were usually quick toe to her aid, but she resolved troubles even faster. "Miss Spencer, how should we handle them?" Caleb asked in a low voice.


    Ophelia chewed on her bubblegum, the strawberry vor barely masking the surrounding scent of blood.


    Eric watched Ophelia, frowning deeply, filled with questions, while he momentarily let Eden slip free. Eden picked up gun from the ground and aimed it at Eric.


    A dull gunshot rang out, and the bullet struck Eden''s hand.


    "Ah..." Eden cried out in pain, clutching his hand, his face devoid of color.


    the


    This was Ophelia''s first time firing a gun. Her hand tingled from the recoil, but her eyes were covered in a frightening frost. "What would Keh do?"


    "Understood." Caleb nodded, giving a signal to his men.


    Ignoring the chaos behind her, Ophelia got into the car and drove over to Eric. He hopped in, wiping the de in his hand with a handkerchief. The car moved along the road, still tinged with an unpleasant stench of blood. Ophelia rolled down the window, and the autumn night breeze blew in, dissipating the odor.


    "What do you want to ask?" Ophelia turned her head to nce at Eric before quickly looking back to focus on driving. As the car got onto the highway, Eric unwrapped another lollipap. "How did you get involved with Death Guild?" "What?" Ophelia furrowed her brow. The term was unfamiliar, and she didn''t understand.


    Eric twirled the candy stick in his hand. "Death Guild is an underground organization established in Mgia seven years ago.


    58%%


    Cha

 Jilted Bride 78

    "It should be my boyfriend who hired people to protect me. Although Ophelia didn''t really need protection, she still thought those people were impressive. She hadn''t expected that the bodyguards Keh hired were all top-level assassins.


    speaking is so much like his


    Ophelia thought, "Keh is really a spendthrift. How much money did he spend hiring these people? Just thinking about it felt wasteful, but her tone when she spoke earlier carried a hint of pride. She realized, I really have been influenced by Keh. My way of "Your boyfriend?" Eric turned his head to look at Ophelia. Ophea''s mouth lifted, and her star-like eyes sparkled. He clicked his tongue in disdain. "You actually got a boyfriend?"


    The smile on Ophelia''s face instantly faded. "What do you mean I''m already married, okay?"


    She should have said "husband", but she wasn''t quite used to calling Keh that yet. If she referred to Keh as her husband, he would surely be overly pleased. Moreover, ording to Keh''s way of thinking, he might even consider her calling him "husband" a sexual innuendo.


    Sugar swirled around Eric''s teeth. "Then those thugs are my wedding gift for you."


    Ophelia sighed. "Uh...fine."


    Eric didn''t ask any more questions. Just by looking at her recent state, he knew she was doing well, and he finally saw the smile on her face that she only had as a child. That was enough for him.


    When Ophelia returned to Rosewood Manor, it was already past two in the morning. The lights in Rosewood Manor were still on, and Lisa''s room door was open, with a TV ying a drama starring James. Hearing the noise, Lisa immediately came out. "Miss Spencer, you finally came back! Have you eaten? Are you hungry?"


    A warm feeling surged in Ophelia''s heart. There was a time when she longed for her family to wait for her toe home. "I''m not hungry. You should go to sleep. No need to wake up early tomorrow."


    Lisa sniffed the air and felt she caught a whiff of something fishy wondering. Is it from the cool breeze at night?'' She looked Ophelia up and down, and since she looked fine, just like when she set off, she felt relieved.


    Ophelia returned to her room. Without Keh there, the bed felt cold. Holding herputer, she wrapped a nket around her legs and sat on the couch, her fingers continuously tapping the keyboard. It was almost dawn before she managed to get some sleep.


    The next morning, she delivered the gems to the studio and helped Eric rent an apartment on the same floor as Chloe. Then, she casually dropped by Chloe''s ce to y with Wyatt for a while


    Chloe''s apartment was warm and tidy, with all sharp corners covered with foam cushioning.


    Since Wyatt had a congenital bleeding disorder, also known as hemophilia, they had to be especially careful not to let him bump into anything, and he needed to go to the hospital regrly for check-ups and to replenish missing clotting factors. Although there was currently noplete cure for this disease, fortunately, Wyatt was still young, and early treatment. wouldn''t affect his survival.


    However, it was quite difficult for Chloe to take care of Wyatt by herself, and being a strong person, she refused to ept Ophelia''s help for free. Now that Eric lived on the same floor as Chloe, he could lend her some support


    "Chloe, could you let Erice here to learn during Wyatt''s tutoring sessions?" Ophelia asked.


    "If he wants to." Chloe came out of the kitchen and ced some fruit on the table.


    58%


    Just then, a news segment yed on TV. "The owner of Cameo Charm in Mineroca died in a car ident. This event was worthy of celebration throughout Mineroca.


    The interviewees expressed that heaven had eyes, and they exposed Eden''s crimes over the years as he dominated Mineroca, such as oppressing themon people, signing unfair uses, and harming out-of-town tourists, among other things. "So many people suffered because of him. He really deserved to die," Ophelia said.


    +5)


    Chloe handed Ophelia a piece of apple and smiled, "You are truly like a Spider-Woman, with your heroic deeds everywhere." Chloe''s tone carried a hint of helplessness as she thought, ''When will she ever think more about herself?"


    Ophelia changed the news and handed the remote control to Wyatt. "Do you want to watch cartoons?"


    "Yes," Wyatt replied sweetly, his big blue eyes keen and lively, not forgetting to turn around to seek Chloe''s approval.


    "You can only watch for half an hour," Chloe said.


    Only then did Wyatt take the remote control and tune it to the cartoon channel.


    Ophelia observed Wyatt, who was focused and serious, wondering, ''He has such beautiful big eyes, a prominent nose, and an innate noble aura. What kind of person is his father?'' Ophelia had asked Chloe this question before, but Chloe was unwilling to bring it up, only saying it was just an ident, so Ophelia gave up.


    At that moment, a Twitter notification popped up on Ophelia''s phone. [Emily donated 1.5 million dors worth of supplies to children in impoverished areas, a touching act.] In the photo, Emily appeared without makeup, standing with a group of children.


    A little girl who looked about six or seven years old held a Barbie doll and carefully said to the camera, "Thank you, Emily, for the supplies. I will study hard to repay all of you." The camera inadvertently captured Emily, her eyes red and tears welling up. Ophelia silently admired her, thinking, ''What great acting!


    Soon, Emily was all over social media. She was spotted visiting elderly people and donating to schools in impoverished mountainous areas. Public opinion of her took a turn for the better. "Whether it''s genuine or just for show, at least she actually did it, and that alone ismendable."


    Then, there were rumors that Sungate Entertainment would coborate with the renowned screenwriter Elliot Ashford on a new movie.


    "Renowned screenwriter Elliot," Ophelia scoffed, her emotions unclear.


    Chloe looked at her. "What''s wrong?"


    "Chloe, do you remember Kevin?"Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Chloe lowered her gaze, pondering for a moment before reluctantly recalling who he was. "That middle-aged man who loved literature?" Ophelia nodded.


    In the slums, everyone only thought about filling their stomachs, but only Kevin would spend all his money on books, pens, writing, articles, and poetry collections.


    Kevin taught Ophelia how to write her name, letter by letter. She vaguely remembered that before Kevin left the slums, he smiled at her and said, "Elia, I finally have the chance to write a book. When I publish it, I''ll treat you to candy and cake." He patted her shoulder, his eyes filled with hope.


    Kevin believed he could finally pursue the path he loved, but unfortunately, he was exploited and became a ghostwriter without any rights to his work. The so-called renowned screenwriter, Elliot, had produced scripts over the years that were all written by Kevin. Elliot gained fame and fortune through these works.


    The new movie being produced by Sungate Entertainment in coboration with Elliot was Kevin''sst work.


    She remembered in her previous life, on the day this movie premiered, Kevin jumped to his death. No one believed that someone from the slums could write such a remarkable work, and no one cared about Kevin, the "inferior This time, Ophelia determined not to let this tragedy happen

 Jilted Bride 79

    On Monday, Ophelia received a call from Harry. "Ma''am, the stocks you rmended have all dropped right at the opening today. This trend doesn''t look good."


    Ophelia lowered her voice. "If you think it''s going to lose money you can sell them now. Don''t me meter.*


    Harry felt embarrassed upon hearing this andughed awkwardly, "How could I? You know the money I used to invest in stocks was borrowed. Putting in such arge sum made me feel oneasy."


    "Investing in stocks, you gain or you lose. But I have a feeling that the stocks you hold will see a significant rise before Friday. If you don''t believe me, feel free to sell anytime."


    "Of course, I believe you." Harry thought to himself, ''If I had listened to her earlier, I would have made a fortune by now. Since she is so confident, I''ll wait and see. Every time those stocks dropped before, they suddenly surged. When they go up this time, I''ll sell.'' Ophelia hung up the phone, took out the SIM card, broke it in half, and threw it in the trash can.


    Wyatt needed to go to the hospital for a check-up today, and since Ophelia had some free time, she went with Chloe.


    Because Wyatt had not registered as a citizen, they could only go to expensive private hospitals.


    While waiting in the lounge area, Wyatt sat there quietly like he always did. Perhaps he didn''t understand why he always came to the hospital so frequently.


    "Are you hungry? Should I buy you something to eat?" Ophelia asked.


    Wyatt nodded but remained silent.


    "What do you want to eat?" Ophelia''s tone was gentle, and if Keh heard her, he would surely be jealous. "Mommy, what are you eating?" Wyatt sat on the sofa in the lounge, looking up and tugging at Chloe''s arm. "I''m not eating," Chloe replied.


    Looking at the sensible Wyatt, Ophelia reached out and touched his head. "Then I''ll see fit."


    Chloe forced a smile and nodded.


    Ophelia left the hospital and went to the convenience store across the street to buy some food. When she returned, she saw a Rolls-Royce parked at the entrance.


    A man leaned on a crutch as he got out of the car. Under his coat he wore a high-neck gray sweater and ck trousers, but one pant leg was empty. His bodyguard immediately took a wheelchair from the trunk and set it up. The man sat in the wheelchair, his brow furrowed, exuding an irritable demeanor. His profile bore a resemnce to Keh, creating an indescribable strangeness.


    Ophelia thought, ''Is that Patrick? Did hee to this hospital for treatment?''


    Initially, Ophelia didn''t pay much attention to Patrick''s appearance since the Sinir family still hadn''t found out that Ophelia and Keh were married. However, she inadvertently spotted Marking out of the hospital. Ophelia wondered, ''Wasn''t he supposed to go to Shinova with Keh?'' She followed behind, carrying breakfast. Just as she was about to get on the elevator with them, she was stopped by the bodyguard. "Please wait for the next one." Ophelia had to take two steps back and looked up, meeting Mark''s gaze. He immediately averted his eyes.


    57%1


    0


    As the elevator door slowly closed, Ophelia caught a glimpse of Mark pressing the button for the eighth floor through the mirror. She pulled her gaze away and waited for the next ride.


    After apanying Wyatt for his examination, Ophelia noticed that the Rolls-Royce had not left yet. Instead, several low-profile ck Bentleys were also parked there.


    She took out her phone to check the time again. Mark was supposed to be Shinova with Keh. She wasn''t worried about Mark secretly associating with Patrick behind Keh''s back. She was just concerned about Keh.


    ''Is Keh in the hospital, too? What happened to him?'' Ophelia felt anxious, countless thoughts racing through her mind. When she reached the first-floor lobby, Ophelia paused in her steps.


    "What''s wrong?" Chloe turned to look at her, and Wyatt raised his head as well.


    "Chloe, you take Wyatt home first. I have something to do." Ophelia realized that whenever it came to anything rted to Keh, she could not think calmly.


    Chloe didn''t ask any more questions and left with Wyatt.


    Ophelia nced at the hospital directory. The eighth floor was designated for VIP wards, which were off-limits to the public.


    Ophelia thought, ''Patrick has so many bodyguards around him. And if this is just Keh''s n, my reckless approach might cause trouble for him.'' Ophelia shifted her gaze and spotted a nurse on duty. She then promptly followed her.


    Kehy in a well-equipped, oversized ward. He had his eyes closed, and hisplexion was an unhealthy shade of pale. Standing beside the bed were several high-ranking members of Sinir Group, along with Patrick, who sat in a wheelchair, looking impatient. "Do we really have to wait as long as he sleeps?" One person spoke up, and the others chimed in.


    "Mr. Sinir is seriously ill. Someone has to take charge here."


    "Yeah, we can''t be without a leader."


    Mark wore a cold expression. "Mr. Sinir was attacked in Shinova, and the ones who knew his itinerary must be the high-ranking officials. So, will you admit it yourselves, or should we wait for Mr. Sinir to wake up and personally question you?"


    The others exchanged nces as they thought dismissively, ''Can the bastard even get up after this?''


    Mark''s gaze swept across the faces of these older men, wondering, ''Do they really want to pull Mr. Sinir down from the CEO? They usually act righteous, but at this critical moment, they still stand with Patrick.''


    Patrick squinted at Keh on the bed, a barely noticeable smile on his lips, thinking, ''You went through all this just to pave the way for me."


    Keh slowly awoke from the bed...


    The elevator doors opened, and Ophelia, dressed in a nurse''s uniform with a nurse''s cap and mask, pushed a medical cart down from the elevator. She looked up and saw ck-d bodyguards standing at the elevator entrance, in the hallway, and by the ward door. As soon as she stepped out, two bodyguards stopped her and searched her.


    One bodyguard checked the cart she was pushing, while the other used a metal detector to scan her up and down, then ordered, "Hand over your phone."


    Ophelia reluctantly pulled out her phone, thinking, ''Good thing I didn''t take the green diamond phone Keh bought for


    me today.''


    "Go ahead." The bodyguard released her. Ophelia pushed the cart to the ward door and heard a familiar voice.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    9


    Keh''s voice was hoarse. "What? Are you disappointed I woke up? I''m not dead yet, and you''re already so eager to usurp my position? Get the hell out of here." He raised his voice, then coughed heavily.


    "Keh, don''t get angry. Take care not to lose your breath," Patrick said with a smile, his expression treacherous and sly.


    Ophelia saw this scene through the rectangr ss window on the door, her heart suddenly constricting. Her grip on the cart tightened, her knuckles turning white, and her eyes above the medical mask were cold and filled with resolve.


    0

 Jilted Bride 80

    hapter 80 57%


    Ophelia pushed open the door to the hospital room, instantly drawing everyone''s attention. However, when they saw it was just a young nurse, their gazes quickly shifted away. "Get out!" Keh shouted with his eyes still closed.


    Mark frowned and thought, "The nurse looks somewhat familiar


    Keh was about to lose his temper, but as he opened his eyes, he was met with a pair of innocent, doe-like eyes.


    Ophelia pushed a cart to the bedside, positioning it right in front of Patrick. "Didn''t you hear? Everyone out. The patient needs rest."


    Patrick clicked his tongue against his teeth. "Keh, you better rest up. Wouldn''t want to end up like your short-lived mother..."


    Ophelia stumbled, and the syringe in her hand slipped as if it had a mind of its own, stabbing right into Patrick''s only good leg. The room was immediately filled with his screams. "Oh no! I''m so sorry. It slipped." Ophelia blinked her wide, innocent eyes and quickly pulled the syringe out.


    "Do you have a death wish?" Patrick attempted to stand up from his wheelchair to teach Ophelia a lesson, but his bnce wavered, and he almost fell over halfway up.


    "I''m so sorry, so sorry..." Ophelia kept apologizing, then casually kicked his wheelchair aside. Patrick copsed onto the floor like an overturned turtle, iling helplessly. "Throw him out," Keh ordered without even opening his eyes.


    Several of the senior staff rushed to lift Patrick, but before Patrick could say another word, the bodyguards had already dragged him out of the room. His voice still echoed in the hallway, filled with anger, "Keh, you bastard. You better stay alive..." Ophelia wanted nothing more than to rush out there and tear his mouth off. She thought, ''That syringe should''ve gone straight into the middle of him.''


    She clenched her fists tightly, her petite frame standing rigid, her shoulders rising and falling with anger like a furious beast. "Hey, little rebel. What, going through your rebellious phase? Come here." Keh beckoned her with a hoarse voice. Ophelia turned around and saw how weak he looked, her heart tightening as if gripped by a hand. Beneath her mask, she bit down hard on her lip, her eyes clouding over with mist.


    Keh, seeing her like this for the first time, felt his throat tighten. He didn''t know what to do. Lying there felt awkward, but sitting up didn''t seem right either.


    "Keh, you..." Ophelia pulled down her mask, revealing her reddened nose, her nose ring with emotion.


    "Come here. Let me hold you," Keh weakly uttered.


    Ophelia


    walked over. She wasn''t sure where he was injured, so she didn''t dare to hold him too tightly.


    Mark was stunned. He wondered, ''Mr. Sinir, aren''t we just acting? Why are you getting so into character?''


    Seeing Ophelia throw herself into Keh''s arms, Mark tactfully stepped out, shooing the bodyguards to stand at least 30 feet away from the door. Chapter 80


    Inside the room, Keh held Ophelia in his arms, a slight smile ying on his lips. "Kiss me."


    Ophelia kissed him on the lips. "Where exactly are you hurt? You look pale as a ghost."


    She thought, ''In myst life, I haven''t cared enough about him to know he was injured during this time. How many assassination attempts has he survived? How many people wanted him dead?''


    "Why are you in the hospital? And dressed like this?" Keh, half-lying down, gently stroked her cheek with his hand.


    "I''m here with Chloe to get Wyatt checked up. You haven''t answered me yet. Where are you hurt? If you don''t tell me, I''ll check for myself." Ophelia frowned. Without waiting for a response, she lifted the nket, checked his legs, and then covered them back up. She wondered, ''Where exactly is the injury?'' Her fingers lightly brushed against his skin, igniting something inside him.


    Keh took a deep breath and grabbed her hand.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    This made Ophelia even more worried.


    Suddenly, Keh sat up, pulled her into his arms, and kissed her.


    Ophelia could hardly breathe. "Keh...you...you''re not... You tricked me."


    Keh chuckled lowly, giving her no chance to escape, "Darling, I''m innocent, I swear."


    Oph¨¦lia could hardly resist. She really had no idea why she hade here.


    After the act of love, Keh held her close, his voice deep and soothing. "I''ll be staying in the hospital for a few more days. Let those old hands in the corporation enjoy their little victory dance for now."


    "Okay." Ophelia was exhausted, barely able to keep her eyes open. She knew she was still in the hospital, but her whole body/ felt like it had fallen apart. She could still move today, but tomorrow, she''d definitely be sore all over.


    "Next time,e see me like this again, alright?" Keh''s fingers traced her face, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. He gave her earlobe a gentle pinch.


    "No way." Ophelia sat up out of his embrace and thought, "There is no way I am going to dress up like this again. I couldn''t believe this is how things have turned out. If I have known, I would''ve left with Chloe. What was I even worried about? Does he look like he needs my concern?''


    Keh smiled, "Don''t leave just yet. How about checking me over one more time?"


    "Sure." A sly smile spread across Ophelia''s face as her gaze flicked to the IV bag, a mischievous glint in her eye.


    She picked up the IV needle, adjusted the flow rate, and let a few drops of clear liquid drip out. "Time for your shot." Keh was speechless. "Are you really going to do it?"


    "Just glucose." Ophelia expertly applied a piece of medical tape to his hand, looking every bit the professional nurse.


    She had learned to give injections back in the slums when people couldn''t afford hospitals. For severe illnesses that needed. IV drips, they would buy cheap saline from the pharmacy and mix it themselves. That was how she''d learned, and she had given injections to plenty of elderly folks.


    Suddenly, someone knocked on the door. It was Mark. "Miss Spencer, your phone''s been ringing quite a few times."

 Jilted Bride 81

    Chapter 81 57%


    Ophelia suddenly remembered her phone was still with the bodyguard outside. She opened the door, took the phone, and saw that Sharon had called. She had asked Sharon to arrange a meeting with James. "I have to go," she said. Keh''s eyes flickered with a hint of reluctance. He stared at her for a moment before closing his eyes. "Alright."


    Ophelia thought, ''Is he upset?'' She walked over and kissed Keh on the lips. "I''ll sneak in through the window tonight to see you. Be good, and don''t you dare let any other nurses check on you, got it?"


    Keh let out a low chuckle, his gaze soft and warm. "Be careful."


    "With you watching over me, aren''t I free to do whatever I want? she teased.


    Keh smirked. "You only do whatever you want with me


    ""Deal."


    SanContent (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    As she turned to leave, Keh opened his mouth, about to ask something, but held back. After she left, he turned to Mark. "Look into that hitman who''s been around her."


    Mark nodded. "Understood."


    *****


    Ophelia changed back into her clothes and left the hospital just as Sharon called again, and this time, she answered right


    away.


    "Why''d you take so long to answer? What were you doing just now?" Sharon''s unmistakable voice came through the phone. Thinking about what had just happened, Ophelia''s cheeks flushed. She thought, ''Keh and I have...in the hospital. All she could think about was Keh''s perfect abs and the parts below them. She quickly shook off the thought.


    Ophelia said, "I didn''t hear it earlier. Did you manage to arrange a meeting with Mr. Guinnes?"


    Sharon answered, "It''s all set. Two o''clock at Caf¨¦ Sol."


    "Great." Ophelia nodded, then remembered something. "By the way, when does your current project wrap up?"


    "Probably in a little over two months. We''ve got a few snow scenes left to shoot in winter, so it''ll be done by January. There''s not much left to shoot right now. Why, are you nning to meet up with me?"


    Ophelia did a quick mental calction. "Once you finish, I''ve got your next project lined up."


    Sharon was more than happy to hear that. She hadn''t felt this fulfilled in a long time.


    They spent some time catching up on each other before hanging up.


    At around 2 PM, Ophelia arrived at Caf¨¦ Sol. The caf¨¦ was nestled in a quiet alley filled with old buildings, where people from the city went about their daily lives.


    The caf¨¦ had an elegant, traditional look, with a giant, ancient tree standing guard out front. Under its shade, some elderly folks were ying chess and cards. After giving her name, the waiter led Ophelia upstairs to a private room that, while rustic on the outside, was surprisingly modern and spacious inside.


    James was there, dressed casually, sitting cross-legged on a mat and expertly preparing coffee.


    14:54 Mon, Nov 11 asti.


    3


    "You''re here." James greeted her with a smile and thought, ''Even after all this time, Ophelia''s beauty still takes me by surprise. Someone this stunning should''ve been in showbiz. Ophelia ced her bag to the side and mimicked his movements, taking off her shoes and sitting across from him.


    "You didn''t expect me to invite you to a ce like this, did you? James asked with a grin.


    "Definitely not," Ophelia admitted.


    "I grew up in a neighborhood like this. Even though I''ve gotten used to high-rise buildings, these old ces help me feel grounded, like I can just be myself." James handed her a cup of coffee. "Try it." Ophelia took a small sip without hesitation. "Too bad I don''t really know anything about coffee."


    Jamesughed heartily. He had expected Ophelia to tter him withpliments about the coffee, but instead, Ophelia''de out with something so honest. He liked that about her, no pretense.


    "So, what do you need from me?" he asked, still smiling.


    57%


    Ophelia set her cup down and pulled a script out of her bag. "Didn''t you mention before that you were interested in investing in a new show? Well, I found one that I think is worth your attention. I''m hoping to team up with someone for the investment James took the script and skimmed through it briefly.


    Ophelia continued, "You recently signed Thomas, right? I think he''d be perfect for the lead role. As for the female lead, there aren''t many scenes, so Sharon could work, but of course, they''d both need to audition. If you could direct it yourself, that would be even better." "You''ve really got everything nned out for me, haven''t you? All that''s left is for me to open my wallet and say yes," James chuckled, barely ncing at the script before setting it down.


    Ophelia wasn''t being rude. She just knew that this was a project worth pursuing. Even if James declined, she''d still go ahead, and invest in it. She''d approached James to block Sungate Entertainment''s options. Sungate Entertainment was nning to invest in a new show, but Emily and Nathan had misappropriated its funds. Since they were now nning to coborate with Elliot, they''d definitely need funding. Their options for co-producers were limited, so it was almost sure they''d reach out to James''pany, Silverline Media. If Ophelia had guessed correctly, Emily probably had already made contact with James. James said, "It''s a good script, no doubt, but..."


    "But, you''re nning to invest in another project, right?" Ophelia smiled as she looked at him.


    James raised an eyebrow and pushed the script back toward her, meeting her clear, doe-like eyes. "Since you''re being so direct, I won''t beat around the bush. I''m nning to invest in the project written by the renowned screenwriter, Elliot. You know Elliot''s work has swept up awards in recent years. There''s no way I''d pass on his project to invest in this one."


    Ophelia nodded. "I get it. I don''t work in showbiz, so I''m not familiar with all the ins and outs. But since you''ve already made


    decision..." your


    "What kind of ce is this? Sophia, are you sure James would meet us somewhere like this?" A shrill, affected voice echoed from downstairs.


    James'' expression darkened.


    They both nced out the window to see Emily dressed in a formal outfit, though her high heels had nearly gotten stuck in the drain grate. She was clearly displeased with the ce.


    77%


    Standing behind her was a woman Ophelia vaguely recognized. Ophelia thought, "This woman has helped Emilynd the lead role in ''Legacy of the Paramour'' and has even managed to clean up Emily''s public image so quickly. She can''t be underestimated.'' A knock sounded on the door. "Mr. Guinnes, your guests have arrived."


    "Let them wait," James said coldly and thought, ''If it weren''t for Elliot, I wouldn''t have agreed to meet them in the first ce, and now they have the nerve toin about my choice of location.


    Ophelia, sitting on the edge of the mat, was about to put her shoes back on. "Since that''s the case, I won''t bother you anymore."


    "Don''t rush off just yet. Hand me the script again." Before Ophelia could pass it over, James reached for it himself and began reading through it once more.


    The room fell silent, save for the gentle trickling of water from a small bonsai on the coffee table.


    Ophelia wasn''t in a hurry. She knew James was stalling, wanting to gauge the sincerity of the two downstairs. She poured herself another cup of coffee.


    "I thought you didn''t know anything about coffee? Howe you know how to use all this?" James asked, throwing in a casual question.


    "I watched you do it once, and I picked it up."


    Ophelia thought, ''It isn''t that hard."


    James smiled and continued reading the script. He hadn''t given it a close look earlier, but now that he was reading it carefully, he realized it really was a solid piece of work.

 Jilted Bride 82

    COMMENT Chapter


    82


    "Tell me why you want to invest in this show," James said as he closed the script.


    Ophelia smiled, "There''s no specific reason. But if you insist on one, it''s simple. This show is guaranteed to be a hit." James asked, "So confident?"


    He thought, ''If anyone else have said this, I might have thought they are overconfident. But when ites from Ophelia, there is something in her eyes that makes me believe her, inexplicably. Ophelia had heard this story from Kevin when she was a teenager. It was about the redemption of two boys, a tale full of depth.


    In her past life, Elliot had forcefully rewritten the original, turning it into amercial romance drama to give Emily more screen time. He''d even twisted the dual male protagonists into a love trianglepeting for one woman. Despite these changes, the series still drew a big audience. If that version could seed, Kevin''s original, which was far superior, would undoubtedly do even better, especially since fan fiction was bing a growing market. "Mr. Guinnes scheduled us for three o''clock, and it''s already three-thirty." A grating voice floated up from downstairs.


    The old house had poor soundproofing, and James, who had been hesitating, furrowed his brows at the annoying noise and mmed his hand on the table. "Let''s draft the contract."


    Before he even finished speaking, a contract and a pen appeared in front of him.


    James chuckled, "You''re something else."? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    He took the contract, skimmed it, and finally signed his name on thest page. brought the contract with you."


    "How were you so sure I''d sign? You even


    In fact, Ophelia hadn''t beenpletely certain. If James hadn''t agreed today, she wouldn''t have pushed. But she was ready toy out the pros and cons. After all, there was still a bigger y ahead, and if James chose to invest in Elliot''s project, he was bound to lose money.


    Ophelia shrugged. "All I can say is, you made the right choice."


    James was taken aback. He thought, ''She''s quite bold.


    Ophelia smiled and added, "To be blunt, your dedication to art outweighs your focus on profit. To tter you a bit, you''ve got good taste."


    "Are you ttering yourself, or me?" James tapped the air with his fingers. "I feel like I just got yed by you. But I don''t mind. You''ve got a way about you that I can''t help but like."


    and


    He thought, ''There is something about Ophelia I couldn''t quite put my finger on. All I could say is that she has good vibes. "Sit tight for a bit. We''ll go over the details soon. Let me go downstairs and send them off first," James said, standing up leaving the private room. Ophelia took a sip of coffee and asked Chloe to check on Kevin''s current address for her.


    While waiting, she scrolled through her phone and saw that Keh had posted on his social media: [Missing you.] He also posted a photo of the stark, white ceiling of his hospital room. It oddly gave off a feeling of loneliness.


    Ophelia couldn''t help but smile. Shemented: [Dear, don''t you know? You can post without including a picture. Better ask Mark to teach you.]


    In the hospital room, where Keh had only one WhatsApp friend, Ophelia, his pale face immediately turned darker as


    he saw thement. He said, "Mark."


    "Yes, Mr. Sinir, what is it?" Mark replied, ready to act.


    Keh exhaled. "Never mind."


    He thought, ''Ask Mark to teach me? I don''t need that.


    57%


    Seeing that Keh hadn''t replied, Ophelia''s smile grew wider as shemented again: [How about I teach you myself?]


    Keh replied: [Sure.]


    Seeing his one-word reply, Ophelia could almost picture Keh''s proud expression.


    After sending Emily and Sophia away, James and Ophelia continued discussing until it was dark outside.


    Leaving Caf¨¦ Sol, Ophelia took a cab to an old apartment building.


    The hallway lights glowed a warm orange, and the walls were stered with small, worn advertisements. By the time she reached the fifth floor, she could hear a man coughing roughly from inside one of the apartments. She continued up to the seventh floor and knocked on the middle iron door.


    "Who''s there?" A familiar voice called from inside, and Ophelia knew she was at the right ce.


    Kevin opened the door and put on his sses. When he saw who was standing outside, he froze for a moment, his eyebrows raised in surprise. "You are...?"


    Kevin was wearing faded, old clothes, and his hair had turned mostly grey over the years.


    Ophelia smiled, "It''s me, Elia."


    "Elia? Oh my, I didn''t even recognize you. Come in." Kevin''s eyes still curved into crescent shapes when he smiled, but now they were framed by lines of age.


    Ophelia thought, ''He must be around fifty now. It feels like a lifetime has passed since west met.''


    Ophelia stepped into the small one-bedroom apartment, which was tidy and clean. The only thing that hadn''t changed was that the ce was still filled with books and piles of manuscripts.


    "Have a seat, Elia. How did you find out I live here?" Kevin''s eyes shone with joy as if he were seeing a long-lost family member, mixed with a bit of pride.


    "I asked around."


    "I moved back here a couple of years ago, but I couldn''t find you" Kevin probably mentioned it to someone at the time, which was how Ophelia found out.


    They chatted for a while, catching up on life. When the conversation turned to Kevin''s current work, the light in his eyes dimmed slightly.


    "Don''t even mention it. I still don''t have signing authority yet," he said with a casual tone, though the bitterness was clear. "You probably won''t believe it, but those two award-winning shows from a couple of years ago, the ones by that renowned screenwriter Elliot, they were both adapted from my work." He said it with a hint of pride, butcking the rights meant no one acknowledged him.


    "But hey, at least I''m earning a bit of money now. How about I treat you to some cake? I heard girls your age like coffee. Let''s I''ll take you to get some." He grabbed his coat as he spoke. The apartment was too small to offer much hospitality.


    1. go.


    Ophelia didn''t refuse his kindness, and they headed to a nearby street food market. Kevin bought her arge cup of coffee. "There aren''t any cake shops nearby, so we''ll have to save that for next time," he said.


    "Alright." Ophelia took the coffee, popped in the straw, and took a big sip. "Thank you."


    They sat on a bench at a bus stop. Ophelia asked, "Haven''t you ever thought about leaving Elliot''spany?"


    "Elliot said that for the piece I''m working on now, I''ll get credit as the original author." Kevin''s eyes were still filled with hope despite all the unfairness life had thrown at him. A person like him, so optimistic, wouldter end up taking his own life in thest timeline. It was such a cruel irony.


    "What if he doesn''t give you credit?"


    "Then I''ve thought it over. Apany has reached out to me, and I could sell this piece to them."


    That was exactly what happened in the previous life. Kevin had taken his work to that otherpany, only for Elliot to turn around and use him of stealing his work.


    Kevin had very little understanding of intellectual property, and he couldn''t clear his name. On one side was a renowned editor, and on the other, a poor man from the slu

 Jilted Bride 83

    No one believed a guy from the slums could write anything worthwhile. Amid countless online attacks, Kevin chose to jump to his death on the day the movie premiered.


    And this wasn''t just connected to Elliot. It also had everything to do with Sungate Entertainment, Emily, and the rest of them.


    They knew full well where Elliot got the script, yet they twisted the truth, turning lies into reality. All the online drama was orchestrated by Sungate Entertainment, just to stir up hype. Ophelia said, "Kevin, do you trust me?"


    Kevin turned his head to look at her, his eyes curving into a smile. "Of course I trust you."


    "Then take your current project and leave Elliot. Come work with me."


    Kevin was stunned. He thought Ophelia was just going to give him some words of encouragement. He didn''t expect this.


    Seeing the determination in her eyes, Kevin no longer treated her as just a kid. He agreed without hesitation. There was noparison. In his heart, the scales had already tipped toward Ophelia. Two dayster, Kevin left Elliot''spany.


    Someone asked, "Mr. Ashford, Kevin''s gone. What are we going to do about the script we were supposed to work on with Sungate Entertainment?"


    Elliot scoffed, "Don''t worry. He wille back in no time. He still writes everything by hand, so getting our hands on his work is easy. Even if he leaves, he won''t escape my grasp." Over the years Elliot hade up with plenty of ways to keep Kevin under control.


    That afternoon, Ophelia brought Kevin to Silverline Media.


    Silverline Media was located in the Denex Entertainment & Innovation District, and without a work pass, one couldn''t get


    1. in.


    The roar of a sports car engine passed by Ophelia, kicking up a swirl of fallen leaves.


    She only caught a glimpse of a head of vibrant pink hair inside the car as it grew smaller and smaller in the distance.


    At the security booth, two people were stopped. "Sorry, you can''t enter without an appointment."Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    "Could you make an exception? We''re from Sungate Entertainment." A gentle woman''s voice reached Ophelia''s ears.


    Ophelia thought, "That voice sounds familiar.''


    The sports car from earlier had stopped at the gate.


    "Mr. Reyes!" Emily rushed over, her off-white dress swaying beneath her brown fur coat as she stood by the car, looking at the man inside. "Mr. Reyes, do you remember me?" "What do you want?" The man in the car removed his sunsses, revealing a handsome yet roguish profile.


    "Mr. Reyes, could you let us in with you? We need to go to Silverline Media."


    57%


    Emily thought, ''I haven''t expected to run into Rex, given that we''d worked together before. Surely, he would help me out.


    "Solve it yourself. I''m busy," Rex put his sunsses back on, drove past the gate, and left them behind in a cloud of exhaust.


    Emily covered her mouth and nose, then, out of the corner of her eye, caught sight of a familiar figure. She thought, Ophelia? What a coincidence. Why is she here?''


    Emily''s eyes burned with hatred. She thought, ''If it weren''t for her, I wouldn''t have been sent to that disgusting rural vige for damage control, having to endure those dirty old people and kids. Even now, the thought makes my stomach turn, as if I could still smell the stench."


    Ophelia''s gaze briefly swept over Emily andnded on the woman next to her.


    The woman had taken good care of herself with a gentle and refined appearance, radiating a serene, almost submissive air. But her eyes betrayed her. Her eyes were calcting and shrewd, so it was no wonder she had Owen wrapped around her finger so easily. Ophelia had thought this woman looked familiar before, and now she was certain. In her previous life, she had seen this woman at Heather and Owen''s 25th wedding anniversary party. She was one of Heather''s closest friends. Ophelia let out a quietugh. She used to think love triangles only existed in trashy soap operas. But the reality was even more dramatic. This was going to be a good show.


    Seeing Ophelia''s expression, Emily assumed she was mocking her again, and her anger red up.


    Meanwhile, Sophia was eyeing Ophelia cautiously. She thought, I know Ophelia is the Hastings family''s recently reimed daughter. But there is something unsettling in the way she looks at us, as if she knows something.'' Still, Sophia quickly brushed it off. She thought again, ''There is no way she could know about my rtionship with Owen, and not even Heather knew. How could she possibly know? Yet, her gaze left me feeling uneasy!''


    "Emily, let''se back another time." Sophia tugged at Emily, but Emily wasn''t about to let it go. She wasn''t nning to disguise her hostility before Ophelia.


    "Ophelia, what are you doing here?" Emily eyed her warily as if facing a sworn enemy. She''d suffered too much at Ophelia''s hands.


    "What''s it to you?" Ophelia''s gaze flicked over them as she walked straight past them with Kevin, heading toward the security booth.


    The guard, noticing they knew each other, scratched his head. People often tried to sneak in like this, and if he let them, he could kiss his job goodbye. "Sorry, but you can''t just waltz in here."


    Hearing that, Emily burst intoughter. She thought, ''If we couldn''t get in, what made Ophelia think she could? She''d be stopped just the same.


    Emily sneered, "Ophelia, do you even know where you are? You think you can just walk in? And you''re bringing a beggar with you."


    Kevin nced down at his clothes and pressed his lips together.


    Ophelia''s gaze suddenly turned icy. "Watch your mouth. Look closely. Who here looks like a beggar? From where I''m standing, it''s you two who look like beggars, practically groveling for help. How does it feel to be left in a cloud of exhaust fumes?" "How dare you!" Emily was furious.


    The security guard scratched his head again. "Are you Miss Spencer?"

 Jilted Bride 84

    Chapter 84 57%


    Emily returned to the office and recounted everything to Nathan. As soon as Nathan heard it, he was furious.


    Emily said, "Nathan, please don''t be mad. This is all my fault for not handling things properly."


    Nathanforted her. "Emily, don''t me yourself for everything. This isn''t your fault. It''s clear that Ophelia is out to get us."


    Emily was anxious. "Nathan, what do we do now?"


    After all, the two of them were the only ones who knew about embezzling the seven million dors.


    Nathan thought for a moment. "This script is by top screenwriter Elliot. It''s guaranteed to be a hit. Even if we have to take out a loan, we have to get this made. If James doesn''t want to work with us, he''ll regret it soon enough."


    Soon after, the announcement came out online. Sungate Entertainment coborated with top screenwriter Elliot on a film titled A Life of Wonder. Meanwhile, Dreamscape Studio and Silverline Media were working on a film called With Love as My Cause.


    Both films were already in production, and thepetition was heating up. However, the next day, Elliot suddenly posted on social media, using the writer of With Love as My Cause of stealing his work. Elliot even posted photos of his original draft as evidence. Just the day before, Kevin''s house had been broken into, and his script was stolen.


    Since it was an old neighborhood with no surveince, and nothing else was taken but the script, the police didn''t take it seriously. To them, it was just a bunch of papers, and they shelved the investigation.


    At Silverline Media, in the artist director''s office, James'' brow furrowed deeply. "What''s going on, Ophelia? Can you give me a reasonable exnation?"


    The script Ophelia had shown him was practically identical to Elliot''s.


    "I''m sorry. It''s all


    my fault. I''ve dragged you into this," Kevin said dejectedly, slumping on the couch. He took off his sses, his arms resting on his knees, and the light in his eyes dimmed. He knew exactly who had done this but had no proof. James nced at Kevin on the couch and frowned even more. He thought, ''What has possessed me to invest in this project?'' He sighed, "Sungate Entertainment is already manipting the public narrative online. Elliot''s also nning to take this to court. If we lose, not only will all our upfront investment go down the drain, but Silverline Media and your new studio will also take a hit."


    James thought, ''Does Kevin think an apology would fix this?'' But he wasn''t going to say anything too harsh. Kevin understood. "I''ll release a statement, taking full responsibility. I won''t let this drag down thepany." While the public opinion snowballed, Ophelia didn''t seem worried at all. In fact, she appeared quite rxed.


    James couldn''t figure her out. "Are you nning to tell me what you''re going to do? My blood pressure''s through the roof, and you''re acting like nothing''s happening."


    He couldn''t believe how calm Ophelia was. It seemed like he was the only one stressed out, while Ophelia acted like it was just another day.


    Ophelia checked her phone and smiled as a message popped up from Keh: [Come spend the weekend with me.]


    She replied: [Okay.]Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    14:54 Mon, Nov 11 wt. Chapter 83


    ""Yes," Ophelia replied.


    "I''m sorry, Miss Spencer. Mr. Guinnes already informed us you''d be arriving. I didn''t recognize you just now. Please, go right in." The guard immediately shifted his attitude, treating Ophelia and Kevin with the utmost respect. Emily froze and thought, ''What just happened?''


    She immediately asked, "You must''ve made a mistake. Why are they allowed in?"


    The security guard shot her an annoyed look. "Why should I exin anything to you? If I made a mistake, why haven''t I let you in? If you keep standing here, I''ll call the police."


    Emily''s throat tightened as she watched Ophelia swagger in, her chest filled with frustration. In the end, Sophia had to drag her back to the car.


    "Why didn''t you stand up for me back there?" Emily directed her fury at Sophia.


    Sophia sighed helplessly, "Last time at Caf¨¦ Sol, James said he had other ns. Do you think it''s possible those ns involve working with Ophelia and her group?"


    "No way. You really think she could..." Emily''s voice trailed off as she remembered how Ophelia had managed to get William to rece herst time. Maybe this was her doing again. Her anger was reaching its boiling point. "So what do we do now?" Sophia''s eyes lowered slightly. "Go back and tell Nathan about this. Let him handle it."


    A small smile yed on her lips. "Mr. Guitmes, if your blood pressure''s rising, take some medication. Kevin, take the weekend off. We''ve got casting on Monday, and I''ll deal with everything by then. Right now, I need to go to the hospital to visit my boyfriend" James felt like his head was about to explode. He thought, What on earth? Is she trying to drive me crazy? How is she moreposed than webined?


    Ophelia turned to Kevin. "Kevin, I''ve arranged for you to move into a secure apartment. Everything''s already been moved for you. No matter what you hear or what happens this weekend, just stay calm. By Monday, I''ll have this resolved." Meeting Ophelia''s clear, confident gaze, Kevin felt his anxiety ease a little. "Okay. I trust you."


    He thought, ''Even if Ophelia couldn''t fix it, I am grateful to have someone who believe in me. As long as someone has faith in me, I could keep going."


    James took out his heart medication and popped a pill. "Alright. I''m holding you to that."


    He pondered, Td weathered plenty of storms in my time. I''m curious to see how Ophelia is going to pull it off by Monday!


    That evening, at Hastings Vi, Owen had been busy with the development of thend in the West End and hadn''t been home in days. Finally, the family was sitting down to dinner together.


    Harry had his head down, looking distracted, ever since that afternoon. Emily also seemed preupied.


    What''s on your mind, Emily?" Heather tilted her head.


    Emily replied in a low voice, "Nothing."


    That just made Heather more worried. She looked over at Nathan. "What''s going on with her? You two work together, so make sure to help her out. She looks exhausted."


    Nathan mumbled, "Well. Whose fault is that?"


    Heather blinked in confusion. "Whose?"


    "Who else? Ophelia! She''s been making life miserable for Emily and constantly going up against the Hastings family. Thend deal Harry bid for and the acting jobs Emily lost are all her doing. And now, she''s in cahoots with others to steal our script from Sungate Entertainment. Tell me, are we just supposed to let that go or not?"


    Nathan''s words immediately chilled the atmosphere at the table.


    "Ophelia again? Does our family owe her something? She''s like a curse." Owen shot a re at Heather. "This is all because of the daughter you brought into this family."


    Heather set down her fork, her appetite gone. Being med by Owen and Nathan made her feel even more resentful. She directed all her frustration at Ophelia.


    She thought, ''When I brought her back into the family, it was only to have her marry in Emily''s ce. I never expected all this chaos. I should''ve listened to the fortune teller. Ophelia is nothing but bad luck.


    Owen said, "This has to be dealt with. Ophelia said she wanted to cut ties with us, right? Fine. Let''s make it official. Harry, contact thewyer and have him issue a statement. Make it clear that Ophelia has severed all ties with the Hastings family since she married Keh. Whatever she does is her own business, and we''re not responsible for any of it."


    Everyone turned to look at Harry, but he hadn''t moved.


    0000 0000


    Owen pped the table, snapping Harry out of his daze. Harry asked, "Huh? What?"


    Owen signed, "Didn''t you hear me? What''s wrong with you today? You''ve been out of it all day


    Nathan chimed in, "I''ll handle it, Dad. Maybe Harry''s just overworked. He couldn''t wait to cut ties with Ophelia as fast as possible.


    Owen continued, "Tomorrow night is Mr. Carnegie''s 70th birthday party. We''re all going together. Harry, pick out a gift for him tomorrow. And Emily, why haven''t you been spending time with Maxtely?"


    Emily had her ns. She was just waiting for the right moment.


    "Make sure you''re there with him tomorrow night. Understood? Owen said firmly.


    "Sure." Emily nodded.

 Jilted Bride 85

    57%


    Late at night, in the VIP room on the 8th floor of the hospital, someone knocked on the window heavily.


    Keh''s tightly shut eyes snapped open. He swung out of bed and strode to the window. Pulling back the curtains, he saw Ophelia standing outside on the air conditioning unit, dressed in ck sportswear, tilting her head and looking at him. His heart nearly leaped out of his chest. He had never felt like this before. In one swift motion, he opened the window, wrapped his arms around Ophelia, pulled her inside and then mmed the window shut.


    The window mmed shut.


    "Ophelia! Are you out of your mind?" Keh''s brows furrowed, and his sharp eyes zed with anger like he wanted to devour her.


    Keh thought Ophelia was joking earlier when she mentioned climbing in through the window. He thought, ''Who knew she''d actually do it? Eight floors up. With no safety equipment. What if she has fallen? Damn it''


    The bodyguards outside had heard the noise and were about toe in, but as soon as they saw Ophelia, they quickly withdrew and stationed themselves a good 30 feet away.


    Ophelia''s face was flushed from the cold. She didn''t want to wear the nurse''s outfit again, or Keh might use her of trying to seduce him. She thought, ''Keh''s mad. What should I do?"


    "Keh, my hands are cold," she said softly, holding out her dirty, frozen hands, her wide, innocent eyes fixed on him. Her palms were red.


    Keh''s heart clenched at the sight and he gritted his teeth. "You deserve it. If you have a death wish, just say so."


    "You deserve it. Next time, if you want to risk your life, just say so." Even though Keh was furious, he took her cold hands in his, his handsome face still tight with concern.


    Keh rubbed her hands between his, his touch gentle as if he were holding something precious. He even blew warm air on them to heat them.


    Ophelia blinked, suddenly realizing something.


    "Feeling better?" Keh''s voice was stillced with irritation, though it had softened a bit.


    Ophelia stared at him, dazed. "I''m still cold."


    Keh sighed, exasperated, and pulled her into his arms. He thought, ''I can''t yell at her and punish her. She has mepletely wrapped around her finger


    Resting her head on Keh''s chest, Ophelia let him hug her, feeling the warmth of his hands as he rubbed her shoulders. Keh growled. "Try that again, and I swear I''ll break your legs. Got it?"


    He looked down at Ophelia, but when he met her gaze, something in her eyes made him pause. "You... What''s with that look? You think you''re in the right or something?"


    Ophelia''s mind was spinning, slowly piecing together a memory. She murmured, "It''s you, isn''t it? You''re the one who held me in the snow that winter, right?"


    Keh stiffened and averted his gaze. "What are you talking about?"


    "We met when we were kids. It was you." Ophelia''s eyes sparkled, her smile revealing two perfect teeth. "You don''t remember? In the slums, I even gave you half of my bread. You said..." 14:55 Mon, Nov


    Her words were cut off as Keh pressed his cold lips against hers.


    3


    57%


    After what felt like forever, Keh finally let her go and rested his forehead against hers. His voice was hoarse. "I said, kid, don''t get


    too close to me."


    He hugged Ophelia tightly again, running a hand over her head Back then, his mother had just passed away and he had ended up wandering through the slums. Starving and ragged, he had been at his lowest point, and she had seen it all. Ophelia wrapped her arms around his waist, unable to contain the joy bubbling up inside her. Ophelia remembered how Keh had followed her for two days, helping her collect bottles. Every time she found something to eat, she''d share it with him. Then, one day, he was just gone.


    One night, during a blizzard, her makeshift shelter had blown away. Ophelia was sure she was going to freeze to death. But someone had held her hands, keeping her awake, whispering, "Wake up... Don''t fall asleep."


    Ophelia asked, "So, it was you who took me to the hospital?"


    She remembered waking up in the hospital but had no idea who brought her there. The nurses asked for her parents'' contact information and demanded payment for the medical bills. Not having any money, she snuck out and ran into a boy named Miles, who offered to help her. She only remembered his name after that.


    Ophelia thought, ''In my past life, I have once asked Miles about it, and he has actually taken credit for it. If I haven''t lived through it all again, I never would have known that it was Keh who has stayed with me all night in the snow. Keh nodded.


    "So, where did you go after that?" Ophelia asked, looking up at him.


    Keh didn''t respond. Instead, he flicked her on the forehead. "You think I''m as dumb as you?"


    Hospitals cost money. And Keh didn''t have any. By the time he borrowed some from Liam, Ophelia was already gone. After that, he was taken away, and he didn''t even get a chance to say goodbye. That was why when he came back from abroad, the first thing he did was look for her. "Alright. Since you know the truth now, isn''t it time you paid me back for saving your life?" Keh tilted her chin up, locking eyes with her. "You started this."


    "I... I gave you half my bread," Ophelia protested.


    Keh brushed his thumb across her soft lips. "That''s why I''m offering myself to you in return."


    His tone was so matter-of-fact that Ophelia was left speechless. "I..." she stammered.


    She wanted to say that she''d offer herself too, but no, that wouldn''t do. She took a deep breath. "I''ll repay you with my life." Keh slipped off the ring from his pinky and slid it onto Ophelia''s ring finger.


    The ring was thick, like the size of three coins stacked together. It had threeyers. The top and bottom were ck, with a silveryer in the middle, interwoven like a totem.


    Keh smiled, "There''s something special about this ring. It has the pull-tab ring you gave me as a kid embedded inside." He had melted it down and incorporated it into this ring. He had worn it ever since, but now, both the ring and its rightful owner were back where they belonged.


    Ophelia stared at the ring on her finger, treating it like a precious treasure. She thought, Thest time Eric made fun of me, not believing anyone would want me. I said I''m married, but I felt embarrassed for not wearing a ring. But now I have one. I will show it to Eric and tell him that I even have a husband now.


    14:55


    "Alright. It''s time for you to check up," Keh said.


    "Huh? I''m not a nurse." Ophelia was still admiring her new ring whe


    "I''m checking you. You climbed all the way up


    pre. Let''s see if you


    Ophelia was speechless. She thought, ''How does he manage to turn like it''spletely normal?''


    Ophelia protested, "No. I''m sorry. Keh, my hand still hurts."


    Keh let a quietugh. "You don''t need your hands for this."


    *****Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

 Jilted Bride 86

    Chapter


    86


    The next morning, Ophelia saw an official statement from the Hastings family online, publicly announcing theirplete severance of ties with her.


    She thought, "Thank goodness. Now I don''t have to exin it to everyone one by one.


    The hospital room was well-equipped, almost like a hotel. When Ophelia finished washing up and came out, her phone buzzed a few times.


    She answered, and a young man''s voice, still in the middle of puberty, came through. "Are you okay? Mom and Dad are being so unreasonable. Don''t be upset. No matter what, I''ll always be your brother."


    There was a note of determination in Scott''s voice. He had called home that morning, but all he got was, "This is adult business. Stay out of it." Being the youngest meant his words held no weight.


    "Don''t call me anymore. I have no connection to the Hastings family now. You''re in high school, so focus on your studies. Take care of yourself out of town. Goodbye." Ophelia''s voice was cold and detached, almost indifferent. But only Keh could see the emotion lingering in her eyes.


    He ced a warm hand on her head. "Just do what you want. You don''t need to worry


    "Okay." Ophelia nodded.


    about anyone else.


    "Mr. Sinir..." The hospital door opened, and as soon as Mark stepped in, he found Keh and Ophelia gazing at each other affectionately. His feet froze as if he''d been turned to stone.


    He thought, ''No wonder the bodyguards outside gave me that look earlier. I get it now. Is it toote to leave?''


    "Good morning, Mark." Ophelia was used to this by now, not feeling embarrassed at all. Thankfully, Keh didn''t act outst night, and she woke up early today.


    "Good morning." Mark coughed awkwardly, eager to get down to business before Keh''s icy re could kill him. "Mr. Sinir, everything is ready. Will you be going personally today?" Keh nced at the ornate box presented to him, then at Ophelia. "You go instead."


    Ophelia was puzzled. "Where?"


    Mark replied, "Today is Mr. Carnegie''s 70th birthday."


    "Oh." Ophelia remembered Bethany mentioning it before. Last month, Bethany even ordered a custom-made dress from her, which she had picked up just a few days ago. Bethany probably wanted to wear it for this very party.


    She asked, "Are you sure it''s appropriate for me to go?"


    "Of course. Wear that dress." Keh thought about the one he had bought for her that she still hadn''t worn once. "No, wait. You can''t wear that."


    The speed at which his mood shifted caught Ophelia off guard. In truth, she hadn''t nned to wear it since she wasn''t fond of muted colors. But seeing his reaction... She got it. That dress emphasized her figure, and Keh''s possessiveness was a bit amusing sometimes. Ophelia smiled, "I''ll keep it simple. I''ll deliver the gift ande back to you."


    "Alright." Keh, instantly appeased, now looked like a content cat, a slight, proud smirk tugging at his lips.


    Mark felt like he''d just been smacked in the face with some cold reality. He thought, ''Mr. Sinir, have you looked in the


    14:55 Mon, Nov 11 wxi.


    mirror? Where''s that powerful CEO demeanor now?''


    57% +5


    Theo''s birthday party was held at Carnegie Vi. Thevish European-style manor, perched on a hill, looked like a castle towering over the city. Everywhere you looked, it screamed wealth.


    The Carnegie family wasn''t particrlyrge. Theo''s wife, Mary had passed away early, leaving behind a son and a daughter, ra Carnegie, the eldest, and Fiy Carnegie, the youngest. Even the grandchildren were few, only three grandsons. But they were either studying abroad or otherwise engaged and couldn''t make it. So, every year, the Carnegie family invited business friends to liven things up.


    By the afternoon, luxury cars began arriving one after another at the entrance of the estate, all here to celebrate Theo''s birthday.


    In the early evening, a ck Bentley pulled up at the entrance. The car door opened, and Emily stepped out, dressed in a custom-made red evening gown. Her long, wavy hair cascaded over her shoulders like seaweed, and she exuded elegance. Miles, standing by her side in a custom-made navy-blue suit, had a handsome face adorned with a faint smile.


    Emily carefully held onto Miles'' arm as they climbed the stairs, lifting her gown with care.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    She thought, ''It has been a long time since I have attended such an event. So much has happened recently. Friends I have been close with distanced themselves after my true background was revealed. In high society, friendships and rtionships are always tied to family interests. But as long as Miles is by my side, those people have to keep up appearances. That''s why my father insisted I bring Miles, But what if Keh had been the one standing beside me? Would I still have to lower myself like this?''


    The Hastings family had arrived early. In circles like these, they were just considered minor yers. If it weren''t for their connection to the Lewis family, no one would pay attention to them.


    Harry and Nathan followed behind Owen and Heather. They walked in perfect unison.


    Someone ttered. "Mr. Hastings, you''re truly blessed, having such a beautiful daughter like Emily."


    Someone echoed, "Yes, your children are all outstanding."


    Someone even said, "When Emily marries into the Lewis family, she''ll be in control."


    The Lewis family had been doing well in recent years and seemed poised to break into the city''s top three families. But they still had a long way to gopared to the wealthy Carnegie family.


    Owen feigned modesty though he was secretly overjoyed. He thought, ''Emily really brings me pride. If my two sons could also marry well, that would be even better.''


    Just then, an ufortable voice interrupted, "I heard the Hastings family has another daughter, right?"


    The mention of Ophelia made the smile on Owen''s face falter slightly. "To be honest, we did bring home another daughter, but she was raised outside and didn''t turn out well. After getting married, she cut ties with the family." Everyone understood. They knew how things worked in wealthy families. If they were helpful, they stayed. If not, they were cast aside. It just wasn''t usually said aloud.


    The party officially began, and everyone slowly took their seats.


    An older man sat at the head table. Despite being in his seventies, he looked vibrant and well-kept, dressed in a burgundy suit, and his white hair gave him a dignified demeanor. This was none other than the head of the Carnegie family, Theo. 14:55 Mon, Nov 11


    He first gave a brief speech, thanking everyone foring, then asked Fiy to take care of the guests.


    One by one, people approached the table to offer their birthday wishes and gifts. 6A 57%


    "Mr. Carnegie, happy birthday." Emily, arm-in-arm with Miles, approached with a smile. "I''ve brought you a special gift, a painting by Dorian ke. May your luck be prosperous." Theo nodded, his stern expression softening slightly.


    At the table sat several of his old friends, all highly respected figures in Denex. Hearing that the gift was a painting by Dorian, they immediately crowded around to admire it.


    0

 Jilted Bride 87

    Theo unrolled the scroll, and an elderly man nearby adjusted his sses. "It really is an original by Mr. ke. This painting is practically priceless now. The Lewis family is really thoughtful A satisfied smile spread across Theo''s face. "Thank you."


    "As long as you like it, it''s worth the effort," Miles responded politely.


    Next up was the Hastings family. They were only getting this close because of Emily''s connections. Otherwise, with their status, they''d never be after the Lewis family in line to present their gift.


    Owen and Heather offered a set of gemstone chess pieces, elegantly packaged and clearly valuable.


    Harry and Nathan, as the younger generation, gave an antique brooch and a string of gemstone bracelets.


    Out of respect for the Lewis family, Theo nced at them, showing a polite, if slightly strained, smile.


    Just then, a petite figure entered the hall. She wore light-wash jeans, a khaki shirt, and a light gray coat. In stark contrast to the extravagant gowns surrounding her, she immediately caught everyone''s attention.


    Someone asked, "Who is she? Why is she dressed like that for a birthday party?"


    Murmurs rippled through the room, and Owen, noticing themotion, frowned deeply.


    "Ophelia? Why is she here?" Nathan''s mind went straight to his arm, which had only recently healed from a break.


    The expressions on the faces of the Hastings family members turnedplicated. Heather, full of concern, whispered, "I told you we shouldn''t have released that statement. She''s definitely here to cause a scene and embarrass us."


    Owen cleared his throat. "It doesn''t matter anymore. She''s no longer part of our family. Whatever happens, it''s got nothing to do with us."


    His voice, deliberately moderate, was loud enough for the guests at the surrounding tables to hear.


    Owen thought, ''That''s enough. No matter what Ophelia might do, if they have to throw her out, it wouldn''t reflect badly onBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    us.''


    Though Ophelia wasn''t wearing formal attire, her striking features and natural confidence made her stand out even more. Herrge, doe-like eyes held an air of indifference toward the world around her. Without any effort, she outshone the other meticulously dressed women.


    "Mr. Carnegie, happy birthday. My husband asked me to bring this gift for you," Ophelia said, handing over a small, in box. "He thought you''d like it."


    Theo''s smile deepened. For some reason, despite its modest appearance, he was genuinely curious about what was inside the box. Everyone watched as Theo epted it, his curiosity growing He slowly opened the lid.


    Inside were a few simple gem beads, with two showing slight cracks. Compared to the othervish gifts, they seemed insignificant, almostughably so.


    Emily, who had been slightly on edge after Ophelia''s entrance, was now rxed. She thought, ''She is meant to be funny. A few beads? What a disgrace.


    Some guests whispered among themselves, "She''s actually presenting that as a birthday gift?"


    Someone followed. "Giving Mr. Carnegie such in beads. Doesn''t she know she''s making a fool of herself?"


    14:55 Mon,


    As the murmurs continued, Heather couldn''t hold back anymore. She grabbed Ophelia''s arm. "What are you trying to do? Get out of here before you embarrass us all."


    "Ophelia, enough." Harry joined in, lowering his voice but not his hostility. "A bunch of worthless beads? Are you out of your mind?"


    Owen, however, cut them off. "What are you two doing? Miss Spencer''s gift has nothing to do with us." He cast a sharp nce at Heather and Harry. Reluctantly, they stepped back. Suddenly, a heartyugh echoed from the head table, drawing everyone''s attention.


    Theo stood up and walked over to Ophelia, gently patting her on the shoulder. "This is the best gift I''ve received tonight. Thank you, and thank your husband as well."


    A stunned silence fell over the room. All the guests thought, ''What did Mr. Carnegie say? Those in beads are the best gift he''d received? Better than the chess set? Better than Dorian''s painting?"


    As Theo personally escorted Ophelia to sit beside him at the head table, the Hastings family looked on in disbelief and wondered, ''What on earth is going on?''


    Owen''s face darkened, his lips moving soundlessly. He had spoken too soon. To say anything else now would only make him look foolish.


    Emily, meanwhile, was fuming. She thought, ''Miles and I have given an original painting by Dorian, and yet Mr. Carnegie is treating Ophelia''s measly beads with more enthusiasm?"


    "Mr. Carnegie, they''re just a few beads..." Emily started, but Theo''s stern gaze cut her off.


    Owen quickly stepped in. "Emily is a bit inexperienced. Mr. Carnegie, do they have some special significance?"


    A moment of silence passed before ra spoke up. "These beads belonged to my mother. Years ago, during a trip at sea, we lost them. We searched for ages but only recovered one." ra looked at Ophelia, her


    yes full of gratitude. "Thank you for this gift."


    "What? How could that be? After all these years, how do you know these are the same beads?" Emily''s disbelief echoed the thoughts of the other guests.


    ra picked up one of the cracked beads. "Fiy broke this when he was perfectly. Dad even scolded me for it."


    a


    kid, and then med it on me. I remember it


    Fiy coughed awkwardly. "Do we really have to bring that up? But seriously, Miss Spencer, thank you so much."


    "You''re wee. As long as Mr. Carnegie likes the gift, that''s all that matters," Ophelia replied, calm and collected, never once trying to ingratiate herself.


    At that moment, Bethany, who had been overseeing things in the kitchen, walked in and immediately spotted Ophelia. "Miss Spencer, I didn''t expect you to make it."


    Overjoyed, Bethany had previously invited Ophelia, but Ophelia had said she couldn''te due to othermitments. Now, her presence was a pleasant surprise.


    Bethany enthusiastically introduced Ophelia to the table. "Dad, this is Miss Spencer. She did custom designs ra and I wore."


    Bethany, who had remained rather reserved with the other guests, was now pulling Ophelia close. She treated her like a cherished friend, evenpletely ignoring the Hastings family Bethany said, "ra, this is the designer behind La Reverie."


    14:55 Mon, Nov 11 as ti


    00003, 57%


    "So it turns out that the dress Mrs. Carnegie specially orderedst month was for you. Your rtionship is really something." Ophelia spoke gracefully, as harmonious rtionships like this were rare in high society. Enzo was seated nearby. She was a professor from Denex University''s design department. She met Ophelia in a previouspetition. She had been impressed by Ophelia''s work back then, and their eyes met in silent acknowledgment. Ophelia effortlessly mingled with this table of influential figures and was treated with such respect by the Carnegie family. Owen was left speechless by this scene, his face pale. His earlier behavior had just made him aughingstock.

 Jilted Bride 88

    Chapter 88 00057%0


    Everyone''s eyes were filled with either disdain or ridicule when they looked at the Hastings family.


    Emily was fuming with jealousy, and when she turned around, she noticed Miles'' gaze glued to Ophelia. It was the first time she''d ever seen Miles look at someone like that. Miles couldn''t take his eyes off Ophelia, now realizing how much more stunning she waspared to Emily. She seemed to shine,pletely overshadowing everyone else. Theo''s eyes shifted to Owen. "You said the Hastings family has cut ties with Miss Spencer, right?"


    Owen felt like swallowing broken ss. They had already publicly announced the severed ties. There was no turning back now. "Yes, Mr. Carnegie, actually..." Before he could finish, Theo interrupted, "Good. Ophelia,e here."


    Everyone turned their attention to Theo.


    "Ophelia, I feel a connection with you. I have only grandsons, no granddaughters. How about I take you as my god- granddaughter? If you''re okay with it, that is." Theo''s words dropped like a bombshell. Everyone was stunned. The Hastings family was left speechless.


    The guests thought, ''Did we hear that right? The head of the prestigious Carnegie family wanted to take Ophelia as his god- granddaughter? Forget about the Hastings family. Even the Lewis family would have to curry favor with the Carnegies. If Ophelia became part of the Carnegie family, she would instantly rise in status, and no one in Denex would dare to mess


    with her.''


    Bethany beamed at Theo''s words and thought, ''Theo made a great decision.'' She immediately grabbed Ophelia''s hand, overjoyed. "I''ve always dreamed of having a daughter. From now on, you''re my goddaughter, and I promise to treat you even better than my sons."


    Ophelia hadn''t fully processed what was happening. She had onlye to drop off a birthday gift.


    Emily, on the other hand, was green with envy. She thought, ''Why does Ophelia always get so lucky?"


    Heather smiled and stepped forward. "Ophelia, why are you still standing there? This is a huge honor, not just for you but for the Hastings family as well."


    Owen chimed in, "Yes, Ophelia, hurry and thank Mr. Theo. And Emily, you and Ophelia are sisters. From now on, treat Mr. Theo like your own grandfather." He gave Emily a pointed look.


    Emily quickly caught on and thought, ''If I could get close to the Carnegie family, I''d have ess to people like Keh. She let go of Miles and walked forward.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Theo let out a cold snort, his face stern. "I don''t just ept anyone as family."


    Emily froze and thought, ''What does he mean? What''s good about Ophelia?'' Her face twisted with anger as she red at Ophelia.


    Owen felt embarrassed, but the Carnegie family didn''t care about saving face for them.


    "You have already cut ties with Ophelia, right? Who said that? You even mentioned that whatever trouble she caused has nothing to do with you. Well, that also means you can''t bask in her glory now." Theo''s words were crystal clear.


    Bethany, overhearing this, was visibly displeased. "Dear, why is anyone allowed to attend Theo''s birthday? Send the Hastings family''s gift back. There''s no room for them here. How strange for the whole family to show up." Her words couldn''t have been harsher. Chapter 88


    57%


    The guests had seen everything Owen had done earlier. It had been a public embarrassment for the Hastings family. It was a perfect example of instant karma. It had been a long time since anyone had witnessed something so satisfying. Someone pulled out the Hastings family''s public statement from that morning. "This is shameless. The statement clearly says they''ve cut ties with Miss Spencer. Now that Mr. Carnegie wants to take her as his god-granddaughter, they''re trying to suck up to her? Disgusting."


    Someone sneered, "They shot themselves in the foot."


    Someone echoed, "Exactly. But for a family that treats their adopted daughter so well, I''d think she is someone''s secret love child."


    Owen''s face filled with panic.


    "Mr. Hastings, take your family and leave. We don''t wee you." Fiy stepped forward, fully supporting Bethany. He even returned all the gifts they had brought.


    Owen''s face brushed out of embarrassment. Heather shot Ophelia a pleading look, hoping she would speak on their behalf. But Ophelia, happily chatting with ra, didn''t pay them any attention.


    "Ophelia, how can you just stand there while our parents are being humiliated? Say something." Nathan was furious, his fists clenched tightly. He wondered what kind of tricks Ophelia had used.


    "Parents? Excuse me, but you called me ''ungrateful'' in your statement, remember? Since I married, I''ve had no ties to the Hastings family. Isn''t that right, Mr. Hastings?" Ophelia repeated the exact words from their public statement.


    The Hastings family was left speechless. Emily nced at Miles, hoping for support, but he remained silent, making her feel even more bitter. She thought, ''Ophelia, you''ll pay for this.


    In the end, the Hastings family was forced to leave, humiliated, under the scornful gaze of the crowd.


    "Ophelia, from now on, with me as your god-grandfather, you can do whatever you want," Theo dered, making sure everyone heard.


    Ophelia didn''t say anything.


    Everyone thought she''d just hit the jackpot, but only she knew better. Theo clearly had ulterior motives, likely involving Keh. While it wasn''t malicious, Ophelia couldn''t ept it.


    As the party drew to a close, Ophelia raised her ss and toasted Theo. "Thank you for standing up for me, Mr. Carnegie, but I''m sorry. I can''t be your god-granddaughter. I wouldn''t want my husband to be at a disadvantage."


    Theo, with his sharp eyes, was momentarily taken aback. "Do you know how many people would kill for this chance? With the Carnegie family backing you, wouldn''t that be a good thing?


    Ophelia smiled innocently, a stark contrast to her usual straightforward demeanor, "Thank you for the offer."


    She finished her drink in one gulp and stood up to leave, but Theo stopped her. "Ophelia, I''m serious. Don''t be in such a rush. Why don''t you take a walk with me in the garden?" Theo stood up, even preventing ra and Fiy from following them.


    They left the brightly lit ballroom and entered the cooler garden. A servant draped a coat over Theo''s shoulders before leaving them alone.


    Theo said, "Ophelia, you''re smart Surely, you don''t want to let Keh down, do you?"

 Jilted Bride 89

    Ophelia frowned slightly and turned to Theo.


    Theo added, "This is actually Keh''s idea. He wants the Carnegie family to be your protector."


    Ophelia was confused. She thought, ''Isn''t Keh enough of a backing for me?''


    Seeing the doubt in her eyes, Theo exined, "The Sinir family is ruthless. Sooner orter, they''ll find out about you. Without a title or status, you''ll just be easy prey. You don''t want to be Keh''s weak spot, giving others a chance to use you against him, do you?"


    Looking at Theo''s sincere gaze, Ophelia didn''t know how to respond.


    Theo continued, "The Sinir family isplex, full of internal strife. With us backing you, some of them won''t dare to mess with you. No matter how capable Keh is, he can''t stop them from scheming behind his back.


    "And your parents, if they knew you were married to Keh, who''s to say they wouldn''t try to use you for their gain? As long as we are behind you, you''ll be safe."


    Ophelia asked, "Why? What''s in it for you?" She didn''t believe anyone would do something for free, especially in top-tier families where everything was about profit.


    Theo replied, "Because I trust Keh. He''s not like the Sinir family. My family is running thin on heirs, and quite frankly, none of them are very bright. I need Keh to ensure the Carnegie family''s future, to make sure my descendants won''t be eaten alive without even realizing it." Ophelia thought, ''Is that really how he spoke about his own grandchildren?''


    Theo sighed heavily as he said, "But also, I really like you. You''re smart. If it were anyone else, I wouldn''t bother exining all this. Just think of it as mutual benefit." Theoughed heartily


    Back inside, the guests saw how engrossed the two were in their conversation and didn''t interrupt.


    Ophelia had looked into the Carnegie family before, back when she needed Bethany''s help, so she knew a bit about their background. Theo''s father had built a massive empire from scratch, but from Theo''s generation onward, the family line became thin. His two grandsons were abroad and were just typical spoiled heirs, and his grandson from ra''s side was even less reliable.


    Ophelia thought, ''I couldn''t quite put my feelings into words, but one thing Theo said is true. I couldn''t be Keh''s weak spot. I know what the Hastings family is capable of. In my past life, they had sold me to a perverse man for their benefit. What wouldn''t they do now?


    ''I know the Sinir family has aplicated situation, but I am not familiar with their inner workings. After all, in myst life, I had been used by the Hastings family. I have only learned Keh''s true identity from Emily, along with the ruthless methods Keh supposedly used.


    "I need to discuss this with Keh first," Ophelia said cautiously.


    Anything involving Keh had to be handled with care. She couldn''t cause him any trouble or let anyone manipte her.


    "Alright," Theo smiled warmly, then added with a yful glint in his eyes, "I''ll be waiting for you."


    Ophelia nodded.


    After their conversation in the garden, Ophelia left through the back door, avoiding the ttery of the guests.


    As soon as she stepped out, someone blocked her path. "Elia."


    57%1


    She thought, ''Who is calling me in such a disgusting way?''


    Seeing Miles looking at her with deep affection, Ophelia felt her skin crawl. "Get lost."


    "Elia, don''t treat me like this. There''s a rift between Emily and me now. I really regret not choosing you. Every day, I live in pain, punishing myself for not being with you. I was lying to myself before, but I''ve always had feelings for you. Can''t you give me another chance? I know you''re the one I should have been with all along."


    Ophelia was too disgusted to say anything. She raised her left hand, showing the ring Keh had given her the previous night. "I''m married."


    Miles continued, "Elia, stop lying to yourself. I know you still care about me. When you first came to the Hastings family, you knew I was Emily''s boyfriend, but you still chased after me, didn''t you?"


    Now Ophelia realized that she couldn''tmunicate with Miles anymore.


    "Yes, because back then, I thought you were my savior." Ophelia''s clear eyes met Miles'' gaze.


    Miles swallowed. "That''s right. I did save you. If I hadn''t rushed you to the hospital, you would have frozen to death. I even paid your medical bills. Have you forgotten?"


    "Where did you find me? How did you get me to the hospital?"


    "That was so many years ago. H


    could I possibly remember the details? Elia, pleasee back to me."


    As Miles reached out to grab her shoulders, Ophelia pped him hard across the face. "Get lost!"


    She could see Miles'' hands clenching, then loosening.


    Miles asked, "You''ve hit me, so is your anger gone now?"


    Ophelia thought, ''How shameless could he be?''


    She sneered, "Do you know who I''m married to? Keh. You think you canpete with him?"


    Miles'' patience ran out. He sneered, a trace of disdain flickering in his eyes. "Elia, if you''re going to lie, at least make it believable."


    He thought, ''Keh? What a joke.''


    Just then, a car''s headlights shed across the street.


    Miles raised a hand to shield his eyes and stepped back.


    The car sped up as if aiming straight for him, screeching to a stop just inches away.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Miles'' legs trembled. For a moment, he thought the car would run him over. Before he could even voice his anger, the back window of the car rolled down, revealing a man''s sharp features and strikingly handsome face. Miles was stunned. He thought, ''Is he Keh?'' Keh''s eyes shot a dangerous look at Miles, like a lion ready to tear apart anyone who dared trespass on his territory. -Miles gulped, realizing that his looks and charm were utterly crushed in the presence of Keh.


    Before he could process why Keh was here, he saw Ophelia walking toward the car with a sweet smile on her face. Ophelia said, "Honey, did youe to pick me up?"


    Keh lifted his eyes slightly, a mischievous smirk at the corner of his lips. "Yeah. Get in, my dear wife."


    Their words rang clearly in Miles'' cars. He stood there, stunned, unable to move as the car drove past him.


    Until the car passed in front of him, Miles still hadn''t recovered from the shock he had just experienced.


    Miles thought, ''Is Ophelia really married Keh?''


    00357%


    When Miles thought back on Keh''s gaze, his breath quickened, and beads of sweat formed on his forehead. His legs felt like lead, trembling uncontrobly. He thought again, ''What am I

 Jilted Bride 90

    Inside the car, Keh leaned back against the seat. His head turned slightly to look at Ophelia beside him. His fingers unconsciously reached for his pinky, feeling the emptiness there. Earlier, when he saw Ophelia being tugged at by Miles, his anger surged, but it was effortlessly soothed by her calling him honey. Now, he couldn''t even get angry anymore. Keh said, "What did you call me just now? Say it again."


    The partition in the car slowly rose.


    Ophelia thought, ''Does the driver have to be this perceptive every single time?


    Keh''s hand gripped the back of her neck, his thumb brushing her earlobe. "Say it again, quickly..." He hadn''t quite heard it clearly earlier.


    Ophelia swallowed, her throat tightening. "I''ll say it, but don''t think I''m trying to seduce you."


    "Alright."


    "Honey." Her voice was soft and sweet, with a lilting tone, the word striking straight at Keh''s heart.


    "And that''s not seducing me? Hmm?"


    Ophelia was speechless, her face scrunching up.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Just as Keh was about to lean in closer, Ophelia pushed him back. "Wait. Let''s talk about something important first. Is it you who have Mr. Carnegie recognize me as his god-granddaughter?" "Yes,"


    Hearing Keh''s confirmation, Ophelia felt a bit more at ease. Theo had already exined the reason to her, and she understood Keh''s good intentions. He was always protecting her in his way. His breath was so close now, carrying a faint scent of tobo.


    Ophelia cupped Keh''s face, her eyes pure as she gazed at him. She thought, ''Somehow, the Keh I know in this life feels different from the one in my past life. Perhaps it''s because of my own transformation, allowing me to experience things I haven''t in my previous life.


    "I didn''t have enough to eat tonight." As she spoke, a faint whiff of red wine lingered in her breath.


    Keh frowned. "Did you drink?"


    Ophelia guiltily pressed her lips. "Just...just a little. It''s not my fault. You didn''t tell me in advance. I thought that Mr. Carnegie recognizing me as his god-granddaughter was him trying to take advantage of you, so of course, I refused.


    "Oh? And what does that have to do with drinking? Haven''t I told you, you can only..."


    Ophelia leaned forward and kissed Keh''s thin lips mid-sentence.


    "Drinking was my bad, but you can''t be unreasonable either," she pouted, her face full of grievance as her breath hovered near Keh''s nose.


    Keh looked down, his gaze fixed on her long eyshes and the small tear mole under her eye, both utterly captivating Back at Rosewood Manor, Keh''s kisses had been continuous ever since they entered the house, falling densely like raindrops. In the darkness, the overwhelming pressure mounted. I''ve let you off twice at the hospital, he murmured.


    3


    57%


    0


    In the middle of the night, Keh brought up a te of steaming pasta. Ophelia, half-asleep, managed to eat two bites before drifting off again.


    The next day, Ophelia woke up to find it was almost noon.


    till fast asleep. Seeing how long she


    Keh sat on the couch, alternating between work and watching Ophelia, who was had slept, he felt a pang of guilt. His eyes were full of tenderness which Ophelia interpreted as crocodile tears.


    "I didn''t get to eatst night," she said, her voice filled with grievance as she red at him.


    "Forgotten already?" He moved to the side of the bed and gently brushed her messy hair. "I cooked you pastast night. You barely ate two bites."


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow. She had thought the part where he fed her pasta was a dream. Now, it turned out it was real, and Keh had cooked them himself.


    Her view of him shifted once more, and she found herself staring at his well-defined hands. "I want some more."


    She thought, ''I havepletely forgotten the taste ofst night''s pasta. But this was pasta Keh has cooked himself, and there is no way I am going to miss out.


    "Alright. I''ll carry you downstairs." Keh fetched a warm robe and wrapped her snugly in it.


    Ophelia clung to his neck as he lifted her in his arms.


    Downstairs, the house seemed empty. Ophelia asked, "Where''s Lisa and the others?"


    "I gave them the day off." Keh set her down at the small bar in the open kitchen and kissed her on the forehead.


    This kitchen wasn''t often used. Lisa and the staff usually prepared meals in the adjacent kitchen.


    Keh rolled up his sleeves and grabbed a packet of pasta.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow and thought, ''This is how he made it Resting her chin on one hand, she watched as Keh moved around the kitchen, feeling a sense of contentment she had never felt before.


    Ten minutester, a steaming te of pasta was ced before her. Th


    beef, looking irresistibly delicious.


    pasta was topped with a fried egg and a few slices of


    She picked up her fork and took a bite. Her eyes lit up immediately. "This is


    SO


    good."


    She had no idea pasta could taste this good. The fried egg was crispy, just the way she liked it, and the pasta was cooked to perfection. Whether it was because Keh made it or not, the pasta seemed far from ordinary. It was absolutely delicious. She felt the warmth spread through her stomach. Looking at the now-empty te, Ophelia nced up at him. "Can you make me more?"


    Keh raised an eyebrow, his expression indulgent. He grabbed a napkin and gently wiped her mouth. "Alright. Once you''re full, it''ll be my turn."


    Ophelia thought, ''What?''


    Just as Keh was about to turn back to the stove, Ophelia quickly grabbed his arm. "Actually, forget it. Eating too much isn''t good. Being eighty percent full is just right."


    She smiled like a fox, her big doe eyes pleading.


    14:55 Mon, Nov 11 W ti.


    Keh smiled, "Not hungry anymore?"


    Ophelia nodded vigorously, not daring to eat more.


    Keh''s lips curved into a smile as he softly murmured, "Then it''s my turn."


    ESR 57%


    Before Ophelia could react, Keh pulled her closer, his arm wrapped around her waist as he carried her over to the sofa.


    Ophelia tried to resist. "Keh, I just ate!"


    "That''s why you need help digesting." He bent down, his lips iming hers.


    Outside, snow began to fall. It was the first snow of the winter. Two snowkesnded on the windowpane and slowly melted into one.


    Ophelia finally understood why Keh had given the staff the day off. At least he had restrained himself enough to let her wake up early the next day.


    For Ophelia, these past couple of days felt like just a cozy weekend, but for James and Kevin, Monday was a day of reckoning.


    Early in the morning, as Ophelia was having breakfast with Keh, James called, "How are you nning to handle this?" His voice was calm.


    "Aren''t we choosing the cast today? Mr. Guinnes, can you focus on the job at hand?" Ophelia took a bite of her sandwich.


    "What did you say? The script''s future isn''t even secure, and you''re talking about casting?" James'' voice rose, almost shouting through the phone, loud enough to reach the dining table. Ophelia moved the phone away from her ear, ncing at the time.


    Across from her, Keh''s gaze sharpened like a de toward the phone in her hand, as if he wanted to turn both the phone and the person on the other end into dust.

 Jilted Bride 91

    Chapter


    91


    Ophelia said, "First, send out the casting call before Sungate Entertainment can act" Janies was frustrated, but he still instructed his assistant to handle it.


    After hanging up. Ophelia speared a piece of bacon with her fork and held it up to Keh''s lips. "Darling, have some


    bacon."


    She had to soothe Keh somehow. With the look Keh had given her just now, she worried something might happen to James.


    "What have you been up totely?" Keh asked, epting the bacon but not eating it immediately.


    Ophelia replied, "Trying to figure out how to bankrupt the Hastings family. How about you help mee up with a n?"


    "What do you want me to do?" Keh finally ate the bacon she offered.


    Ophelia smiled slyly, her eyes shining with cunning as a n began to form


    Meanwhile, at Hastings Group, the secretary, Nor


    Davis, burst into the meeting room, flustered.


    "Mr. Hastings, something terrible has happened. Nora was breathless, and her face flushed


    Monday''s regr meeting was abruptly interrupted, and all eyes turned to Nora.


    Owen leaned back in his chair, his face darkening with irritation What''s got you so worked up


    Nora took a deep breath. "Mr. Hastings, the government is going to expropriate thend at the West End Ser Field to build an airport."Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    "What?" Owen mmed the table and shot up, his head spinning "Quick, call in some favors and make contacts. There''s still room to maneuver before the formal documents are issued.


    Nora swallowed hard, nervously handing Owen a document. The formal notice. It''s already been issued."


    "Why so sudden Harry shot up from his chair, snatching the document and scanning it.


    "They''re offering only 30 million dors? Just an eight-million-dorpensation?" Harry''s eyes widened in disbelief. The initial auction price for thend was 22 million dors, and the government was offering only eight million dors more forpensation. It made no sense.


    Harry thought, ''Back when we acquired thend, Hastings Group has spent 80 million dors. Now we are looking at over 30 million dors in losses just on thend alone. Worse, the entire project has been financed through bank loans, meaning the Hastings family... The room erupted in chaos, with everyone talking over each other like a swarm of flies.


    By noon, the business world was buzzing about the news. The 80 million dors Hastings Group spent on thend was back in the spotlight, with many mocking the decision. Competitors who had missed out on the deal were now relieved they hadn''t won the bid The Hastings family had made a disastrous move, and there were doubts about whether they would even survive this blow.


    After the Hastings family''s disgrace at Theo''s birthday party the previous night, Owen had spent the entire morning making phone calls, but no one was willing to help.


    Hastings Group''s recent ventures had all been struggling. The only sessful entity was Sungate Entertainment, but now, with Hastings Group in trouble, Sungate was suffering as well. Their artists were terminating contracts,


    615


    At the same time, Ophelia-handed James a video,


    The video showed Elliot lounging in his office chair, smugly flipping through a script. "Who would have thought that after writing so many scripts for me, Kevin still had such a gem in him? Too bad for him. He''ll never be more than a ghostwriter. Leaving me? Thepanies he works with now must regret it ble time." His assistant echoed. That''s for sure. Kevin''s house doesn''t even have a security camera. It was too easy to sneak in and grab this. He doesn''t even use aputer. He writes everything by hand. What an idiot."


    Elliot chuckled, "Make sure you publish the script online, register the IP, and don''t forget to post on Twitter tomorrow,"


    His assistant nodded. "Got it."


    James previously tense expression rxed after watching the video. "How did you manage to get this video?"


    "You ask too many questions.


    Ophelia had tasked Eric with this, and Kevin''s manuscript was safely returned as well. This matter could''ve been resolved differently, but Ophelia had registered Kevin''s work online the day she found him, just in case. The video was an unexpected bonus Elliot''s shameless admission that Kevin had been ghostwriting for him all these years was the perfect ammunition. Not only could this clear Kevin''s name, but it would also expose Elliot for his years of giarism.


    "Don''t release the video yet, Ophelia said. "I''m showing you this just to put your mind at ease. This afternoon, you take Kevin to the casting call as nned. Don''t worry about anything else."


    James still had questions, but he felt much more at ease now. "Alright. I''ll do as you say?"


    He thought, ''Ophelia has a way of making everything feel like it is under her control. I am d I haven''t invested in Elliot''s project. Otherwise. I''d be facing her as an adversary!


    At Hastings Vi, everyone had been called back for an emergency meeting at noon.


    "Dad, what are we going to do?" Nathan was the most anxious. If Hastings Group went under, the project he was working on would have to be shelved Without quick returns, he might not be able to pay back his loans. Everyone was waiting for Owen to make a decision. Owen turned to his housekeeper. "Paul, reach out to Rosewood Manor. Isn''t there still 27 million dors left from the wedding gifts? It''s been six months, so they should be ready to give us the rest of it."


    He thought, That money could help us stay afloat for now."


    Heather''s face paled at the mention of Rosewood Manor. She had secretly gone to confront Keh to defend Emily and had ended up making things worse. Keh had no intention of paying the rest of the money.


    Heather wanted to speak up but didn''t dare, so she remained silent.


    Owen continued, "Stop production on Sungate Entertainment''s film. Transfer some of thepany''s funds to cover the deficit


    Rumor had it that the government project had the support of Sinir Group, meaning the airport construction wouldn''t be halted. The priority now was keeping thepany operational until their other ventures could turn a profit.


    As soon as Emily heard about halting the investment for her film, she immediately turned to Nathan for help. She thought, Stopping production on my film would mean losing to Silverline Media. I have worked hard to manipte public opinion against Ophelia and Silverline. I couldn''t let them catch a break now!''


    19616


    "Dad, we can''t do that. The film is already in production. If we stop now..." Nathan''s voice faltered, especially under Owens harsh re. He didn''t dare finish his sentence.


    "At a time like this, you''re telling me it can''t be done? Fine. Then give me a solution. Owen snapped, his face darkening with


    frustration.


    Nathan nervously nced at Harry. "Maybe Harry could go to the bank and take out a loan under his name. Once we things, we can repay it with thepany''s profits." Harry clenched his fists, seething with anger as he red at Nathan.

 Jilted Bride 92

    Chapter 92 K 61%


    Upon seeing the look Owen shot at him, Harry broke out in a colil sweat. His face turned deathly pale. "Dad, I


    Before Harry could finish, Paul hurried over, "Mr. Owen, I just got off the phone with Rosewood Manor. They said."


    Paul nced at Heather before continuing. "Apparently, when Mrs. Hastings visited Rosewood Manor, she said the Hastings family no longer needed the rest of the money"


    "What?" Owen furrowed his brow and shot a fiery look at Heather, who was sitting on the couch. His eyes practically zed with rare.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Heather quickly exined, "I... I didn''t say that. You can''t me everything on me. Yes, I went to Rosewood Manor, but it was for Emily''s endorsement deal. He made it clear from the start that he wasn''t going to pay the rest. Even if I hadn''t gone. he would''ve found a way to back out."


    Owen pointed a trembling finger at Heather, too furious to speak, and turned back to Harry. "You, go to the bank and take out a loan under your name. Keep thepany running for now. As for Rosewood Manor....


    "Dad, I already took out a loan for stocks," Harry confessed through gritted teeth


    "Then pull the money out of the market, Owen snapped as if the solution was obvious.


    Harry hung his head, beads of sweat dripping down his face. "I. I can''t pull it out."


    The money was all gone. Startingst Friday, every stock had nosedived. This morning, several of them hadpletely crashed, and others were locked in a limit-down freeze. It was impossible to retrieve anything. To make matters worse, the so-called Stock Deity was unreachable, as if she''d vanished into thin air. Harry''s secretary had tried tracking her down, but there was no sign of her anywhere.


    Owen pressed his hand to his forehead, and his breathingbored. "How much did you


    borrow?"


    "Seven..." Harry stammered.


    "Seventy thousand dors?"


    "Seven million dors, Harry whispered, his voice barely audible


    "What! Seven million dors? Are you out of your mind?" Owen roared, his eyes bulging in disbelief. He pped Harry so hard that his sses flew off. "You took out a seven-million-dor loan to gamble on stocks? What were you thinking?"


    "I... I was tricked. I was just trying to make up for thepany''s loss on thend. Dad, what are we going to do?" Harry''s voice was trembling with panic.


    Owen clutched his chest, gasping for air. He had always thought Harry was level-headed and cautious. He never expected. Harry to pull something like this.


    Seeing the situation, Nathan quickly confessed about his own loan to finance the movie.


    Owen looked at them one by one, his anger reaching a boiling point. He let out a bitterugh. "So now I find out the Hastings family is nothing but an empty shell. Heather, look at these two fine sons you''ve raised"


    Heather, who had been scared, suddenly straightened up. "Owen, what do you mean? Are they only my responsibility? Don''t forget, when you started your business from scratch, it was my family that gave you the funds to get off the ground. Now that my family''s struggling, this is how you repay me? Owen, you heartless man


    As she spoke, Heather lunged at Owen, grabbing his cor, tugging, and sobbing in frustration.


    Annoyed, Owen raised his hand and pped her to the ground. Shrew!"


    The couple continued to argue. Heather''s cries rang out in waves while the entire household descended into chaos, Just then, Emily''s phone rang. It was a call from thepany telling her to check the inte immediately


    Emily opened up Twitter and soon was inundated with hashtags Top Editor Elliot used of Copyright Infringement", "Elliot Stole Multiple Scripts from Kevin", "Sungate Entertainment Aided in the Crime", and "Silverline Media to Pursue Legal Action" In an instant, the inte was aze with outrage toward Sungate Entertainment and Elliot.


    Oneizenmented: [I can''t believe Elliot turns out to be this kind of person. Just a few days ago, he was swearing that Kevin had stolen his work, and now we find out he is the thief all along.Il


    Oneizen replied: [They are turning ck into white. This is ssic Sungate Entertainment behavior.]


    Someone echoed: [Go, Silverline Media! Get justice!]


    Emily had no idea what had happened. She clicked on the video and was dumbfounded. She thought, ''Could anyone self-incriminate so clearly?"


    She immediately called Elliot to demand an exnation, but Elliot was just as baffled. He had searched his entire office andbed through all the surveince footage, but there was no clue as to how that video had leaked. It was like a nightmaree true.


    Meanwhile, Nathan had also seen the headlines. Everything was copsing all at once, leaving no time to catch their breath.


    "Emily, you need to release a statement right now and put all the me on me," Nathan said firmly, staring at her with determination. There was no other option left.


    "Nathan... Emily hesitated.


    "Just listen to me," Nathan added. "If that''s not enough, sell off my shares and use the funds to cover Hastings Group''s losses?


    They all knew it. If the Hastings family fell, there would be nothing left for any of them.


    Nathan gave Emily''s shoulder a squeeze, his eyes filled with silent affection. He knew someone had to take the fall for this.


    Meanwhile, at Silverline Media, they seized the moment and officially began preparations for the filming of With Love as My Cause


    "We really ought to thank Sungate Entertainment for this," James said, rubbing his hands together gleefully. "If they hadn''t spent so much money stirring up the buzz around this, our film wouldn''t be getting half this much attention." James looked at Ophelia, feeling as though he had struck gold. But Ophelia and Kevin were busy reviewing the casting shortlist, paying no attention to him.


    "Elia." James cleared his throat, trying to draw some attention.


    Ophelia nced up at him briefly. She didn''t particrly like anyone outside her close circle calling her "Elia".


    "I was wondering what do you two think about me ying the role of Franklin Edwards? It could save us some money on casting a male lead, James suggested, trying to sound casual


    Ophelia gave him a quick once-over. "We''re not so strapped for cash that we need to cut actor fees"


    James looked a bit embarrassed and turned to Kevin instead. "So, Kevin, what do you think? Do you think I''m a good fit?"


    12K 61%


    Kevin scratched his car awkwardly. "To be honest, I don''t think you''re a great match for the role. Franklin''s character is supposed to be 81, and you...you''re just...a bit too far off the mark


    In other words, Kevin was calling James too old. James got the hint, but still, he felt a bit slighted. He thought, ''Sure. I am older, but I have my fair share of middle-aged female fans too, don''t I?'' Kevin pulled out a profile from the stack. "I think this guy would be a better fit


    It was the same person Ophelia had been considering, Thomas. His height, looks, and acting skills were all on point. Plus, he was currently free, with no other projects scheduled at Silverline, so his avability wouldn''t be an issue.


    "What about the other male lead? Who do you have in mind for that role?" James asked, unable to contain his curiosity. He knew Kevin had more say in the casting decisions than he did, even though he was both the investor and the director. The fact that James, as the one holding the purse strings, had to defer to Ophelia still baffled him.


    Kevin casually pulled out an extremely perfunctory profile card from a lot of materials.


    James choked on his spit. "You''ve got to be kidding. The guy can''t act to save his life. Sure, he''s got the looks, but he''s utterly useless otherwise. His temper is bad. No way, not a chance. If you cast him, you''ll ruin the whole show," 15:37 Tue, Nov 12


    §±

 Jilted Bride 93

    Ophelia rubbed her temples, silently staring at the person in the photo with a slight frown.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    There were three lead roles in total-two male protagonists and female character whose screen time upied about one-fifth of the story. The story took ce in the early 2000s. One of the male leads, Aiden Grant, was a high school student. His father, Logan Grant, was a member of an underground organization. Logan was assassinated just before Aiden''s University Admissions Testing.


    Aiden vowed to avenge Logan, but because of Logan''s shaily identity, the police refused to investigate. Aiden has no choice but to seek help from Logan''s closest friend, the other male lead, Franklin Edwards.


    Franklin was thirteen years older than Aiden. Initially, Franklin refused to get involved. When Aiden dropped out of school, became homeless, and started getting into street fights, Franklin stepped in. He took Aiden home and Rave him food


    Franklin urged Aiden to abandon his quest for revenge. But Aiden, stubborn as ever, didn''t relent. Seeing Aiden''s determination, Franklin began training him inbat, gradually preparing him to be a member of the underground organization. Aiden eventually enrolled in the police academy in his pursuit of Logan''s killer.


    Over five years, the two form aplex bond. Their rtionship became deeply emotional, with Aidening to see Franklin as his closest family.


    However, as Aiden graduated and worked as a police officer, he unraveled more of the truth behind Logan''s death. It turned out that the one who killed Logan wasn''t anyone else but Franklin himself.


    Franklin was willing to break any rule to protect Aiden from harm. Anyone could betray him except Aiden.


    Aiden would defy justice to help Franklin, but the one person he couldn''t forgive being Logan''s murderer was Franklin,


    Given the subtle romantic undertones between the two male leads, Ophelia needed actors with solid acting skills. She didn''t need to worry about Thomas


    But Rex was a wildcard. He had no acting chops, but thanks to his family''s backing, no one dared to control him. Rex had debuted as a singer at 17, and by 20, he''d taken on several lead roles in films and TV shows


    But his acting? Truly bad. Fans, however, didn''t care and supported him no matter what. His fans were particrly against any romantic scenes, which meant that in Rex''sst school drama with Emily, there wasn''t even a hand-holding scene, just to avoid bacsh. Ophelia thought, ''For this show, at least there are no kissing scenes to worry about, but as for Rex''s acting....


    She suggested. "Kevin, maybe we should reconsider the casting"


    Kevin, having been absorbed in his work these past years, wasn''t fully up to date with thetest happenings in the entertainment industry and had based his choices mostly on appea Ophelia said, "Let''s move on to the female lead


    The female lead, Freya Langley, was Aiden''s senior and eventually his superior in the police force. Sharon fit the role perfectly.


    Kevin had selected two actresses-Sharon and neer Zoe Holloway, James had also shortlisted a few more male actors, and screen tests were scheduled for theing weekend. Meanwhile, Sungate Entertainment had begun selling offpany shares.


    Over the years, thepany had signed several young stars who shot to fame quickly, but recently, most resources had been poured into promoting Emily, leading to dissatisfaction among other signed artists.


    Several actors were already nning to leave once their contracts expired, but to keep them, Sungate had distributed portion of thepany''s shares to them. As for the smaller, less famous actors, couldn''t afford the penalty fees for breaking their contracts, so they remained stuck.


    At Christopher Tech Group, one assistant said, "We''ve reached out to the people you wanted. They''ve agreed to sell their


    shares."


    "Good" Ophelia replied, waiting for something to happen, wondering if it would unfold like in her past life.


    "Shall we continue acquiring more shares of Sungate Entertainment?"


    "Keep buying." Opheliamanded.


    Although Christopher Tech Group had yet to turn a profit, thanks to Ophelia''s sessful ventures in the stock market and gambling, money wasn''t a problem for now


    At Sungate Entertainment, it was clear to everyone that with so much happening at once, Hastings Group could barely keep itself afloat, and Sungate Entertainment was about to face major changes.


    Thepany''s actors and staff gathered in the meeting room. Theard a new shareholder ising today"


    Someone replied, "Sungate sold off 30% of its shares. Emily only holds 35. We don''t know who will be in charge after thos


    Someone asked, "Does this mean we''ll finally get better opportunities and won''t be stuck under Ms. Hastings thumb? Maybe we''ll start getting the good gigs."


    Someone followed. "Honestly, if they hadn''t spent so much money cleaning up Ms. Hastings scandals, thepany wouldn''t be in this


    mess


    Many people nodded. "Exactly."


    Their voices carried through the room, loud and clear, as if they wanted Emily to hear every word.


    Emily sat at the head of the table, her head bowed. Even though she was furious, she couldn''t do anything. After all, it was Nathan''s shares being sold. She remained the head of Sungate "Shut your mouths!" Nathan mmed the table, ring at the sycophants who were now mocking them.


    Everyone sneered in return, scoffing at him openly.


    Someone said, "Why are you yelling? Careful you don''t offend the new shareholder and get yourself kicked out."


    Another echoed, "I really don''t understand what Mr. Hastings was thinking. Thepany was doing great under its former CEO, but since these they took over, it''s been going downhill fast


    The ones speaking were actresses who had previously been given shares. With their new power, they no longer cared about respecting Nathan.


    Nathan could only grit his teeth, swallowing his anger. He thoughs, At least Emily''s position is safe


    Suddenly, the elevator door dinged open.


    Christopher, in a perfectly tailored suit, stepped out of the elevator. He had been here before to sign the transfer of shares, and the receptionist recognized him, leading him to the meeting room. Chapter 93


    Emily looked up nonchntly, about to stand up and greet him when she saw someone familiar standing behind Christopher.


    All eyes in the room fell on the tall, gray-coated figure standing behind Christopher.


    Her looks alone could easily surpass most of the women in the entertainment industry, and there was an unmistakable air of authority about her. Her hands were casually in her coat pockets, her posture straight andmanding. "Ophelia? What are you doing here? You''re not wee. Get out Nathan''s eyes burned with rage, and humiliation from the day the Hastings family was kicked out of Carnegie Vi came flooding back.


    Nathan thought, "How could Ophelia have managed to win Mr. Carnegie''s favor as his god-granddaughter? Even Emily hasn''t been that lucky, What''s so special about her?''


    Nathan stormed up to her, mming his fist on the table, his voice thick with menace. "Didn''t you hear me? I told you to get out. Don''t make me throw you out myself!"

 Jilted Bride 94

    "Arr


    you


    sure!" Ophelia nced at Nathan''s aggressive stance and wasn''t sure whether tough or shake her head th thought. Like mother, like son


    Nathan, enraged by her expression, was just about to strike when several men in ck suits burst into the meeting room Before Nathan could react, they twisted his arms behind his back, forcing his head down onto the conference talde


    "Who the hell are you?" Nathan struggled. Despite his muscr frame, he was helpless and unable to move. His face flushed, humiliated and furious,


    "Ophelia, what are you doing here? Emily, call the police Nathan gritted his teeth, the sound of his bones grinding audibly


    Ophelia ignored his outbursts and calmly walked to the other end of the conference table, sitting across from Emily


    The room fell silent. Nobody dared to speak up in front of this group of intimidating bodyguards.


    Ophelia said calmly. "Emily, during your tenure, you misusedpany funds to the tune of seven million dors. On behalf of thepany, I am officially removing you from all your positions and cklisting you"


    "What did you just say? You have no authority to do that," Emily snapped back, panic shing in her eyes as she met Ophelia''s steady gaze.


    Christopher handed her a document, which Emily hesitated to take but eventually nced at. It was the share transfer agreement for Sungate Entertainment. Ophelia''s name was written clearly on it.


    You bought 30 of Sungate Entertainment''s shares? You think you can control me with just 3002 I own 35%, I still run thispany. Stop daydreaming" Despite her frustration over losing 30% of the shares, Emily clung to the fact that she still held the majority and believed Ophelia couldn''t shake her position at Sungate.


    "You might want to look again. My shares total 40%, Ophelia said slowly, her voice dripping with calm certainty.


    "What?" Emily''s hand tightened around the contract as she skimmed the important sections. "Impossible."


    She thought, I have only sold 30%. Where did the other 10%e from?"


    Suddenly, her gaze shifted to the actors sitting on either side of the conference table. "You you traitors"


    L Merrick, the top actress at Sungate, was casually filing her rails, her makeup bold and striking Her red lips curled into at sneer. "Oh, Ms. Hastings, we didn''t betray thepany. We just decided it''s time for a new leader. Why should all the resources go to you alone? Did you ever treat us like peoples"


    L thought, I have been a breakout star, but the roles I have been given in thest few years were abysmal. The goodwill I have built with the public has faded, and I have be nothing more than a cash cow for Sungate. Why should I put up with at any longer?" Emily''s shoulders trembled with anger and shame, her eyes red as she red at Ophelia.


    Nathan, still restrained, tried to turn his head but couldn''t


    Ophelia signaled Caleb with her eyes, and Caleb released his grip, allowing Nathan to stand.


    Nathan stumbled over to Emily, grabbing the agreement from her hands. "Ophelia, who do you think you''re fooling?" He didn''t believe a word she said and ripped the contract to shreds


    Leaning back in her chair, Ophelia smiledzily, "Christopher, make two more copies. Let him tear them up as much likes,"


    e, Nov 12


    61%Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Christopher smirked, his eyes behind his sses glinting with mockery. "Mr. Hastings, no matter how many you destroy, it won''t change the reality. Also, Ms. Hastings, your misuse ofpany funds will be reported to the authorities" "I didn''t do it" Emily quickly denied, her voice faltering


    "Whether or not that''s true isn''t for you to decide. The investigation will reveal everything" As Christopher finished speaking, several police officers entered the already crowded conference room, making the atmosphere even more stifling. The bodyguards quietly stepped aside.


    "Who here is Emily Hastings?" the lead officer asked, his tone grave,


    *1... I am," Emily stammered, her previous arrogance evaporating, and she shrank behind Nathan like a schoolgirl caught misbehaving.


    "We received a report that you misappropriatedpany funds, a significant sum that has not been repaid in over three months. Pleasee with us to the station for further investigation." The officer wasted no time, pulling out handcuffs. The fact that they had shown up meant there was already sufficient cadence.


    Nathan immediately stepped forward, blocking their path. "Officer, you must be mistaken. Thispany belongs to the Hastings family."


    Emily looked at him as if he were aplete fool. Her hands clenched so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. She thought, Nathan must have lost his mind. What he just said is practically a confession, admitting to the embezzlement Ophelia watched the scene unfold in silence


    Ida, stillzily fling her nails, added with a sarcastic drawl, "Company funds belong to thepany, not to an individual You''ve harmed the interests of the shareholders, and we have every right to use you of misappropriatingpany *Pleasee with us. The officer repeated, taking out the handcuffs. Emily''s eyes widened with fear, and she recoiled in


    "It wasn''t me. Nathan did it. Why are you taking me?" she cried out, panicking.


    She thought. I couldn''t be arrested. I just couldn''t


    Nathan turned to Emily, his heart sinking. He thought. Is this really the sweet, innocent Emily I have always doted on?


    Emily, trembling and swallowing hard, pushed Nathan forward, stammering. "Thepany ountants can confirm it. I have no idea about the embezzlement"


    Nathan had never imagined Emily would betray him so easily. He had already intended to take the fall for her, but now he was beginning to question whether it had ever been worth it.


    "Is that true?" the officer asked, turning to Nathan


    "It was me... It was all me, Nathan confessed, his voice hollow.


    He willingly covered for Emily when the funds were used to patch up her financial mess. But now, looking at Emily''s desperation and betrayal, Nathan felt it was all just a cruel joke.


    The handcuffs clicked around Nathan''s wrists. Nathan slumped in defeat, his face still showing the red imprint from being pressed down earlier. He looked utterly pathetic.


    The officers turned back to Emily. "You''ll need toe with us too for further questioning"


    As they were led out of the room, Nathan nced back at Ophe, his emotions unreadable, but his jaw tightened in barely restrained anger.


    15 38 Tue, Nov 12 BU


    With Nathan and Emily escorted away, the meeting room fell into a heavy silence. The staff kept their eyes down, stealing nervous nces at Ophelia, now the unquestioned new boss. Even L, who rarely respected anyone, quietly filed her nails without a word. Ophelia''s imposing presence had even subdued L''s rebellious spirit.


    Ophelia motioned to Caleb to dismiss the bodyguards.


    Once they left, the room''s stifling pressure began to ease, and everyone silently let out a breath they hadn''t realized they were holding.


    Ophelia looked around the room. "I''ll give you all five minutes to think. If anyone wants to switch agencies now, speak up. I won''t ask for anypensation for breaching your contracts."

 Jilted Bride 95

    Everyone''s eyes lit up, and they began whispering among themselves, but no one dared to be the first to step forward.


    Ophelia added. "If no one objects, I''ll bring in a professional team to assess your strengths and assign resources. This way, you''ll each have work lined up after the new year."


    "Really!" someone asked, still in disbelief.


    Someone echoed. "You''re not going to just give us background roles, are you?"


    "Resources are limited, and you''ll have to prove yourself. But if you want to terminate your contract, now''s your chance," Ophelia said, ncing at her watch. "You only get one shot. After today, you''ll have to pay a penalty to break your contract." Arge portion of the group was tempted. They thought. She is ruthless, backed by an army of bodyguards, and has just sent Nathan and Emily to jail. No one wants to cross her.


    As soon as the first person asked to terminate their contract, a second quickly followed. Ophelia was more than happy to let them go.


    It wasn''t long before the news of Sungate Entertainment''s change in ownership hit the inte. Not only had thepany changed hands, but its name was now "SN Entertainment",


    That same day, SN Entertainment issued nine statements announcing the termination of contracts with various artists, each statement wishing them a bright future.


    At the same time, Nathan''s embezzlement scandal blew up online. Nathan took full responsibility at the police station, so Emily was released after giving her statement.


    Back at Hastings Vi, Heather was frantic. She couldn''t get through to Owen, so she swallowed her pride and tried calling Opheha, only to discover that she''d been blocked.


    When Owen finally answered, he immediately started berating Heather. Learning that Nathan had been caught embezzlingpany funds gave him a massive headache. With the end of the year approaching, everything was a mess. "Give the phone to Emily, Owen demanded.


    Heather handed the phone to Emily. Emily asked. "Dad, what should we do?"


    Owen said. "Sell the shares you''re holding and use the money to cover Nathan''s losses. Get him out of there."


    "No, Dad.." Emily protested. As long as she held onto her shares, there was still hope for aeback. If she sold them, she''d have nothing left. There was no way she could agree to that


    Owen snapped, "Listen to me. This is the only way. Don''t make things harder for Hastings Group If we can''t get through the end of this year, the Hastings family will be out on the street"


    Tears welled up in Emily''s eyes. "Dad, I''ll figure out a way to get the money. Just give me two more days, please."


    Owen, softening at Emily''s plea, reluctantly agreed.


    By evening, Owen had contacted awyer to get Nathan temporarily released from the police station


    After spending the afternoon in the interrogation room, Nathan was on the verge of breaking down. When he saw Emily again, all the tenderness he once felt for Emily had vanished the moment she threw him under the bus,


    38


    Emily asked. "Nathan, are you okay?"


    Even though Nathan was disappointed in her, he couldn''t bring himself to yell. Instead, he silently pulled his arm away from her grasp.


    "Nathan, are you mad at me? I''m sorry. I was just too scared earlier. Nathan, hit me, Yell at me if you want, but please don''t stay like this," Emily cried, her eyes red and brimming with tears.


    In the past, Nathan would''ve done anything to avoid seeing Emily like this. But now, all he could think of was how selfish. and cruel she had been. Clenching his fists, he went upstairs without a word.


    Heather, unaware of what had transpired between the two, was caught up in her argument with Owen and didn''t intervene.


    Usually surrounded by love and care, Emily now stood alone in the middle of the living room, feeling utterly abandoned. She thought, I have to hold onto my shares, but how?


    Then suddenly, a name popped into her head-Keh. She pondered. I know his secret. If I asked him for help, he''d have no choice but to agree, wouldn''t he? Hope flickered in Emily''s eyes That evening at Rosewood Manor, Ophelia brought a warm cup of milk upstairs and into the study, where Keh was on the phone. The tension in his brow softened slightly when he saw her.


    She set the milk down, ying the part of the sweet, dutiful wife, Just as she was about to leave. Keh pulled her into his


    Ophelia listening to Keh speak in a foreignnguage on the phone, idly toyed with his cor, letting her fingers asionally brush against his neck. Each touch made his Adam''s apple bob up and down.


    Suddenly, she remembered something she''d seen online [Thettle things girls do that men can''t resist]). One of the tips was to kiss him while he was on the phone.


    Staring at Keh''s lips for a long moment, Ophelia leaned in, but before she could kiss him. Keh pressed a light kiss to her lips as if to calm her. His hand ruffled her hair affectionately,? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Keh continued speaking into the phone, but hisposure faltered when he felt Ophelia''s lips press gently against his. The sweet scent of strawberries and warm milk, mixed with the faint aroma of Ophelia''s hath soap, filled the air His breathing hitched.


    When the person on the other end finished speaking. Ophelia mischievously pulled away, leaving Keh momentarily speechless.


    Keh hung up the phone, his gaze sharpening, the corner of his eye creasing slightly. "Are you teasing me again!


    Ophelia blinked herrge, innocent eyes at him "Toney, I need to talk to you about something


    Hearing Ophelia call him "honey, a smile tugged at Keh''s lips. He lifted her onto the desk, leaning in close. "Talk after we''re done.


    "No way. If you don''t agree, I''m not doing anything"


    "That''s not up to you, Keh murmured, his thumb brushing over Ophelia''s lips. Her stubborn, doe-like eyes, so pure and innocent, could bring him to his knees. "Alright, talk."


    "I have to attend some actor auditions in the next couple of days Will youe with me? We can treat it like a date. How does that sound?"


    Keh sighed, biting her lip yfully, "You just can''t sit still, can you? Maybe I should get you a leash and keep you close"


    "A leash for what? I''m not a dog."


    Keh chuckled darkly. "Let''s finish this first. Then I''ll see how you behave."


    Ophelia''s eyes gleamed with mischief as she yfully lifted his chin. "Mr. Sinir, you''re going on a business trip this weekend, aren''t you?"


    She thought, That''s why Keh is being so amodating, isn''t it?"


    Kehughed softly as his hand slid to her waist. He both loved and hated how clever Ophelia was. Ophelia always tried. to outmaneuver him, but somehow, Keh always ended up being the one tricked.

 Jilted Bride 96

    Keh, feeling guilty, cupped the back of Ophelia''s neck with his hand. Ophelia asked, "How long will you need this time?"


    Keh''s lips curled into a yful smirk. "How long do you want me?"


    Ophelia frowned, knowing exactly where his mind had gone. She was asking how long his business trip wouldst, but before she could rify, Keh pulled her into a kiss. 60%


    ¦°


    Outside, snowkes fluttered down all night.


    By morning, a soft light filtered through the floor-to-ceiling windows. In bed, Keh''s arm was wrapped tightly around Ophelia''s waist.


    Ophelia was used to being held like his prized possession. Turning to face Keh, she hugged him back tightly. Keh chuckled, enjoying it, "Can''t bear to let me go, hmm?" He pulled Ophelia even closer, her body pressed against his chest, his hand gently rubbing her back. Take Caleb with you everywhere for the next few days, alright? Be safe." "Don''t worry, I can take care of myself"


    "Good girl. I''ll be back in three to five days, just in time for the New Year"


    "Okay"


    Keh held her tight, his chin resting atop her head.


    Outside, the garden''s snow-covered branches created a winter wondend, but inside, the warmth of the house made it feel far from cold.


    As Keh put on his ck overcoat, Ophelia went into the wardrobe and grabbed her favorite khaki id scarf. She wrapped it around his neck before he could leave. Keh gazed at her with those deep, captivating eyes, the kind that seemed to pull her in. "Come with me."


    "No way. If I went with you, how would you focus on work? Besides. She smirked. I''m not exactly the picture-perfect housewife


    Every time Ophelia got involved, it was like people thought she was some kind of femme fatale.


    Keh chuckled softly, giving her a gentle kiss on her forehead before running his thumb along her smooth cheek. Ophelia''s scent lingered on the scarf Ophelia watched him leave from the upstairs window, then got ready and drove out shortly after.


    Caleb''s car followed at a reasonable distance.


    The audition was scheduled for the afternoon, but Ophelia had other ns first.


    Last night''s heavy snow had reminded her of the children in the slums. She remembered her childhood, nearly freezing to death in a storm once.


    Ophelia headed to the mall and bought piles of warm clothing, practically stocking her car like a mobile warehouse.


    Two hourster, she arrived at the slums.


    Dpidated, half-demolished buildings and makeshift homes made from shipping containersy under a thick nket of snow. Some of the flimsy shacks had copsed under its weight, but thankfully, no one was inside.


    Ophelia found Felix''s ce, pushing aside the shabby cloth acting as a door. Inside, she saw him and a few others ying cards around a small stove.


    The boy she had scolded before quickly dropped his cards, scooting two feet back when he recognized her


    Felix turned and nearly jumped. He babbled, terrified, as if he''d seen the devil, "Miss Spencer, what brings you here? I swear I haven''t been collecting protection fees in the slums. I''ve been working. But the construction sites closed for winter, so I have no choice but toe back."


    "Am I really that scary?"


    Felix swallowed nervously and shook his head, forcing a smile that looked more like a grimace.


    "Come help me with something. Ophelia said.


    The four boys exchanged nces before Felix followed her out with the others trailing behind.


    Ophelia opened her trunk, revealing an array of warm clothes and pre-packed bags of vegetables. She had also included cold medicine and antibiotics.


    Ophelia said, "These are for the elderly and kids. If any of the old folks need other medicine, write down their symptoms and let me know. The elderly and kids get everything for free, but any able-bodied adults will need to pay for whatever they


    Felix scratched his head, looking lost. "I can''t read or write. He could barely write his name.


    "I can," a skinny boy standing behind Felix said.


    Ophelia nced at the boy. His left sleeve was half-empty. She hadn''t noticed thest time she was here.


    Lucas continued, "My name''s Lucas Turner. I was born with a deformity in my left arm. I went to school for a few years, but after my dad passed away and my mom remarried, she didn''t want me anymore. So I dropped out. But I can still write Ophelia nodded, handing Lucas her phone number and helping them distribute the supplies.


    "Hey, Felix, where''d you get all this good stuff? Why isn''t there any for us?" a middle-aged man shouted.


    Ophelia frowned, following the voice. There were always a few bad apples in every bunch. People who took more than their share were greedier the poorer they got


    Ophelia knew this well, which was why she had been reluctant to offer much help to the slum residents beyond the elderly and children. She didn''t want to encourage dependency. After all, many of the able-bodied folks here were just toozy to work and relied on others to survive.


    These are for the elderly and kids, Lucas replied


    "Bullshit. Who said that? Aren''t we people too?" The man lunges forward, snatching a bag of vegetables and reaching for the clothes. Before he could grab anything, his wrist was caught.


    n pain.


    "I paid for these. I''ll give them to whoever I want, Ophelia said, applying enough pressure to make him yelp in


    I''m sorry." The man looked into Ophelia''s eyes, and something about her seemed vaguely familiar. It slipped his mind, but Ophelia''s expensive clothes made him back off quickly. She wasn''t someone to mess with.


    1


    15-38 Tue, Nov 12


    24 60%)


    Whimpering, the man kicked the bag of vegetables back toward Lucas, who quickly scooped it up and continued handing things out.


    After everything was distributed, Ophelia gave Felix and his group a few more items.


    Thanks for your help. Ophelia handed them a few new jackets,


    Felix''s eyes lit up when he saw the leather jacket. "Our foreman has one just like this."


    "The sizes are mixed, so share them amongst yourselves. Ophelia could only do so much.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Felix grabbed the jacket, grinning as if it were already Christmas


    Before leaving, Ophelia slipped Felix some cash. Take care of the elderly and the kids for me."


    "Don''t worry. I got this.".


    Caleb, who had been quietly following Ophelia the whole time, saw her in a new light. He thought, ''She is kind without being naive. Strong, but never reckless. No wonder Mr. Sinir likes her so much. They are a perfect match." After leaving the slums, Ophelia drove back to the city for the auditions. As she arrived at the hotel, she spotted Thomas and Sharon stepping out of a ck van together.


    "I''ve missed you so much. You haven''te to see me in forever." Sharon eximed, still in full makeup from hertest role, her face framed by a royal blue wool coat. Miss Spencer. Thomas greeted Ophelia with a respectful nod.


    Ophelia waved off the formality. "Why are you two arriving together?"

 Jilted Bride 97

    4:60%


    Thomas hurried to exin, "Oh, I just happened to hear that Sharon is alsoing to audition, so I dropped by her set this morning. We decided toe here together in the afternoon.


    Since the start of his career, Thomas had always portrayed characters older than his actual age. At thirty, he gave off the maturity of a man in his forties or fifties. But today, it was the first time he looked so bashful.


    The three of them entered the hotel lobby and took the elevator to the eighth floor. As soon as they stepped out, they saw the signs directing them to the audition room.


    James had picked four people, and together with the candidates Kevin chose, there were five men and two women auditioning. It wasn''t time yet, so not everyone had arrived.


    "Have you read the script?" Ophelia asked Sharon, concerned she might not have had time to go through it amidst her busy filming schedule.


    Sharon nodded enthusiastically. Thave, and it''s so intense. I love it. As she spoke, she stole a nce at Thomas, sitting opposite them with his aloof, serious expression. She thought, Thomas resembles Franklin so much. It''s just perfect. The chemistry between Aiden and Franklin is irresistible.


    Ophelia scratched her head speechlessly.


    Just this, the distinct click of high heels echoed from afar


    A coat was tossed onto the seat next to Ophelia, its edge brushing against her.


    "Cops, sorry about that A casual voice came from above. A secondter, the sofa beside Ophelia sank under the weight of someone sitting down


    Ophelia turned to see a strikingly cold-looking woman touching up her makeup with apact, exuding an air of superiority. This was Zor, another actress auditioning


    James had selected her. She was rtively new but had gained tame for a viin role in a previous drama. Her sharp and straightforward persona had quickly be her trademark. She seemed to regard everyone with an indifferent nce.


    "Are you here for the audition too?" Zoe finally looked directly at Ophelia, seemingly unable to ignore Ophelia''s striking appearance and presence.


    "No." Ophelia replied inly, not thinking much of it. She stood up and checked the time, getting ready to head to the adjacent audition room.


    "Then could you head downstairs to my car and grabs my makeup artist? I need a lipstick," Zoe said, dabbing her lips with her finger, then returning to her dismissive


    Zoe thought. If she is not here for an audition, she must be an assistant. Anyway, I have never seen her in the circle!


    Ophelia smirked slightly. "I don''t think that''s part of my job" She patted Sharon on the shoulder, offered a quick "Good luck".


    Zoe snorted, choosing not to bother with someone she believed to be a mere assistant,


    James and Kevin were already waiting in the audition room. Without Ophelia. Kevin had seemed lost. He was an introvert. Sitting next to James only made him embarrassed.


    "Finally, you''re here. James let out a relieved sigh. Somewhere along the way, Ophelia had be his pir of support.


    The two men sat like twin guardians, leaving the center seat empty for Ophelia.


    Resigned, Ophelia sat between them. "Alright, let''s begin


    The first group to audition consisted of two young men from talent shows, both auditioning for the role of Aiden. They were age-appropriate for the character.


    ¦°


    The scene they had to perform was a crucial one. Aiden discovered that Logan''s killer might be none other than Franklin: While it was a simple scene, the emotionalplexity made it incredibly challenging. The internal turmoil and the conflict had to be perfectly portrayed. Unfortunately, both actors struggled. The first one delivered a nk, emotionless performance. The second went for the opposite. He was screaming and crying, pouring all his sadness into the role, but it was far too exaggerated.


    "This isn''t right." Kevin muttered and crossed out their names


    James, on the other hand, felt Kevin was being too picky. "I thought the second one was pretty good. Lots of emotional intensity."


    After the actors left, James voiced his opinion. "Kevin, I think you''re being too hard on them. Just wait until you see Rex''s acting. The second guy had great energy."


    Kevin waved his hand dismissively. "You don''t get it."


    "I don''t get it? Really?" James threw his hands up in disbelief. Tm the director, Kevin. I don''t get it?"


    Kevin jurned to Ophelia. "Elia, what do you think?"


    Ophelia rubbed her temples. No wonder they''d stuck her in the middle. She might have been better off tagging along with Keh


    "Where''s Rex?" she asked James assistant. The assistant shook his head in resignation. Rex never followedpany schedules, always doing as he pleased.


    Ophelia sighed, "Let''s put these two on hold. Call the next group


    The next p


    pair


    were auditioning for the role of Franklin. The scene was the first time Franklin crossed the line to protect Aiden, risking exposure of his crimes to save him. It was a purely emotional scene, with no dialogue, only expressions. Franklin usually kept his emotions in check, but at this moment, he was flustered. The first actor''s performance was exaggerated and surface-level. His panic shattered Franklin''s calm and stoic image Thomas, on the other hand, nailed it. He managed to convey Franklin''s fear while still maintaining hisposure.


    Next came the audition for the female lead. Zoe strutted in confidently, but when she saw who was sitting in the middle seat, her face faltered.


    Zoe blinked embarrassingly and thought. It''s that girl from the waiting room. of the team, and sitting in the center at that


    "Are you starting already?" James, oblivious to the tension, asked


    She isn''t just someone''s assistant. She is part


    The scene was where the heroine, Freya, began to suspect Aiden''s identity after two failed missions. She nned to confront him but instead caught Franklin leaving his house, and everything clicked into ce.


    "Not yet. I''m going to act now." Zoe took a deep breath and began. Her eyes bulged dramatically, and she kept whispering, "No way. It can''t be... Absolutely not..." She shook her head wildly, stumbling backward as though she had seen a ghost Kevin barely nced up before crossing out her name.


    Ophelia nced at James, silently asking. "Your call?"


    James cleared his throat. "Not bad. You can wait for our call"


    2 60%


    Zoe, thinking she had a real chance, gave Ophelia a triumphant look, convinced the decision rested with James..Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Then it was Sharon''s turn. Her performance was calm and controlled, but her eyes betrayed the depth of her inner turmoil Deep down. Freya had always known the truth. All the signs pointed to it. Freya had just been in denial. But now, she had made up her mind, exhaling slowly as if releasing all her doubts


    Kevin pped his hands in admiration.


    Ophelia nodded approvingly. "That was excellent. Mr. Guinnes, what do you think?


    James chuckled, walking over to Sharon and patting her on the shoulder, "Sharon''s acting has always been top-notch."


    Outside, Zoe, who had been eavesdropping, barged back into the room. "Mr. Guinnes, what does that mean? You told me to wait for your call, didn''t you?"


    Her eyes darted toward Ophelia, suspicion growing. She thought. It has to be her. She must have badmouthed me to Mr. Guinnes.

 Jilted Bride 98

    ¦°


    Zoe fumed inside and thought, ''All I did was mistake that girl for an assistant and ask her to fetch something. She didn''t even actually go. Is this really enough to warrant revenge?


    "Your acting needs improvement," James said bluntly, leaving no room for misinterpretation.


    "That you just said I did okay." Zoe retorted, confused and annoyed.


    James felt a bit awkward and thought, ''Not everyone understand the implicit codes of the industry. What I said usually meant I wouldn''t be calling back. Does she expect me to outright say her acting isn''t up to par?"


    "Mr. Guinnes, if this is because she said something to you, don''t believe her. Zoe pointed at Ophelia, her eyes zing. "She''s friends with Sharon. This is all about favoritism. How is this fair to me!"


    James previously calm demeanor instantly darkened when Zoe targeted Ophelia. Just as he was about to speak. Ophelia stood up, meeting Zoe''s gaze head-on. "You think this isn''t fair? How about this? Since it''s just the two of you auditioning for the role, why don''t you pick a scene and act it out with Sharon? Would that be fair?"


    Zoe''s eyebrows lifted. "Fine" She immediately started flipping through the script, searching for a scene she could ace.


    Ophelia''s face remained unreadable. Some people only cry unfairness when the scales weren''t tipped in their favor. She nced over at Sharon, confident in her performance skills.


    Zoe finally pointed to a part of the script. "This scene."


    It was a tense moment in the story. Freya and Aiden were on a mission that went terribly wrong, leaving their vehicle teetering on the edge of a cliff. Freya, realizing the only way to save Aiden was to sacrifice herself, quietly confesses her feelings


    I''ll need a male actor to p partner with me," Zoe added. She believed her earlier missteps were due to ack of proper scene


    partners


    "Of course," Ophelia agreed without hesitation and turned to the assistant. "Go find an avable actor who can help."


    The assistant nodded and quickly left the room.


    James pressed his lips, feeling slightly taken aback. He thought, Isn''t that my assistant?


    Soon, the assistant returned, with Thomas following behind.


    "Who wants to go first?" James asked.


    Everyone had a different way of performing. In a shared scene, the first actor always had the upper hand.


    Sharon, being generous, said, "Zoe can go first." She didn''t want Zoeining anymore,


    Zoe sneered, "I didn''t ask for that, but fine. She walked to the center of the room and arranged two chairs.


    The scene started


    Zoe sat on the chair, gripping Thomas hand tightly. "Aiden, you need to leave. You have a better chance of survival. Follow the orders Go!"


    Her voice was high-pitched, and her face mirrored the same over-the-top horror from earlier as if she were scared out of her mind. But her expressioncked depth, her fear exaggerated to the point of being cartoonish When Thomas responded with Aiden''s lines, Zoe seemed lost, spitting out her next lines like she was reciting them rather


    than feeling them Even the final tear she was meant to shed neiler came. When the finished, Zoe stayed in character for a moment, looking defeated. She hugged Thomas in ast attempt to salvage the scene. Thomas awkwardly held his arms in the air, clearly ufortable, his eyes darting toward Sharon, who smiled sympathetically


    Next, it was Sharon''s turn.


    She took her seat, breathing evenly as the scene began. The moment James called action, Sharon''s entire demeanor shifted Though her body was tense, she didn''t move. Only her eyes betrayed her inner turmoil. "Aiden, you need to go. You have a better chance of surviving"


    Thomas, fully immersed now, responded with genuine concern. Im not leaving without you?


    Tm your superior. Follow my orders. Go Sharon''s voice cracked slightly, her eyes red with unshed tears, but there was a strength in her gaze


    Then, in a lighter tone, she said with a bittersweet smile, "Before I met you, I thought being single was great. But after I met you. I started hoping that true love really exists.".


    A single tear slid down her cheek as she watched Aiden escape to safety. She leaned back in her chair, closing her eyes as she epted her fate. Her lip quivered just slightly. It was a subtle hint of her fear of death.


    James couldn''t stop nodding, thoroughly impressed. Sharon had nailed it, as usual


    Thomas, still staring at Sharon, felt a sharp pang in his chest as though her raw performance had pierced right through him. For a moment. Thomas wanted to rush forward and hug Sharon, but Sharon quickly shed him a smile, snapping back to reality. Thomas hurriedly retracted his hands, flustered.


    Ophelia turned her gaze to Zoe, raising an eyebrow. "Anything to add?"


    Zoe''s face flushed red. "Just because I didn''t do well in this scene doesn''t mean I can''t act, she muttered, unwilling to admit


    defeat


    Ophelia remained neutral. True, you do have room for improvement. But right now, we need someone who already has the skills as you saw"


    Zoe bit her lip, her face twisted in frustration. She knew she was outmatched but refused to say it. She thought, Isn''t this bullying a neer? Not even giving me a chance to grow. It''s best not to be in such a production team


    She nced back at Thomas. "You weren''t as into it when you were acting with me. Leaving those words hanging in the air. Zor stormed out of the room.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Thomas sighed in disbelief, "What kind of person is she?"


    Sharon patted him on the shoulder. "She''s just young. Don''t take it to heart."


    With Franklin and Freya''s roles now settled, only Aiden''s part remained undecided.


    James nced at Kevin, trying to negotiate. "Kevin, the auditions are basically over. The person you chose hasn''t shown up. I think we should go with the guy I mentioned earlier. He''s young, popr, and bring


    in a lot of buzz. We can work on his


    Technically, as director and producer, James had the authority to choose the actors, but Kevin had been given the final say


    by someone even higher up. So, James had no choice but to tread carefully.


    Suddenly, the door flew open with a bang, and a sh of bold color interrupted the conversation


    Everyone turned toward the entrance. A man in sunsses


    lin, followed by two assistan


    lek 60%1


    He had cherry blossom pink hair and was wearing a shiny neon-green puffer jacket with an unzipped front, revealing a white hoodie with a pink bear print underneath. His hands were casually tucked into his loose-fitting jeans, lookingpletely nonchnt. "You called me in for an audition? Sorry, I haven''t read the script Who''s responsible for exining the y to me?" He sat down in a chair, one leg casually draped over the other, exuding an air of entitlement. His attitude screamed arrogance, but as he removed his sunsses, his strikingly handsome face was revealed.


    He had sharp features, meticulously styled by a makeup artist, and an air of youthful charm. His seductive eyes glittered with mischief as he smirked, exuding a cocky, devil-may-care demeanor. It was none other than Rex, the notorious heartthrob of the entertainment industry, the man who had stolen countless hearts of young fans everywhere.

 Jilted Bride 99

    James'' face was not looking good. He let out a soft sigh, giving Kevin a look that seemed to say. "See, this is the guy you picked"


    Kevin on the other hand, pushed up his ck-rimmed sses upon seeing Rex in person. With that youthful face mixed with an air of defiance, Rex was exactly how Kevin had imagined Aiden to be in the early part of the script. Despite not being much of a talker. Kevin surprisingly took the initiative to exin the scene to Rex.


    "Oh, got it," Rex said, standing up and removing his jacket. Let''s get started."


    His manager, smiling politely, turned to Thomas. "Could Mr. Collins do a scene with him? He doesn''t do well with miming"


    "Sure. Thomas responded and approached Rex.


    The scene for Rex''s audition was where Aiden tried to test Franklin after learning the truth.


    "Franklin, you and my father were like brothers. Do you know about me back then?" Rex asked in a yful, almost joking tone.


    "No." Thonns responded as Franklin.


    "Oh what''s my next line again! Forget it. Let''s just jump to the big part. Rex suddenly grabbed Thomas'' cor, raising his fist as his eyes flickered with an inappropriate smirk. But just as he swung, he felt a force blocking his punch, causing him to lose his bnce and stumble back a couple of steps


    "What the hell?" Rex was stunned for a second, his eyes shing with frustration.


    When he regained hisposure, he saw Ophelia standing in front of Thomas. Ophelia was stunningly beautiful. Any trace of anger in Brain''s eyes instantly faded away. His eyes blinked rapidly.


    Everyone knew that Rex was infamous for his bad temper, and he did whatever he wanted because of his family background. Just as everyone expected him to explode and maybe even tear the ce apart, they watched in shock as Rex looked at Ophelia like a puppy mesmerized by a treat. If he had a tail, he''d surely be wagging it furiously by now.


    Rex asked. "Wait Are you doing the scene with me too?"


    From the moment Rex had walked in. Ophelia had maintained a stone-cold expression. Perhaps it was because Emily had previously worked with Rex. Ophelia couldn''t bring herself to like him If it weren''t for Kevin insisting that Rex was perfect for the role of Aiden. Ophelia wouldn''t have invited him at all, especially since it was clear he was here to stir up trouble..


    "Would you do this scene with me? I swear I''ll act properly this time. I didn''t do my best earlier because the others here don''t know how to act Rex blinked, the kind of look that would make his fans swoon in excitement.


    Im not an actress," Ophelia replied icily, her tonepletely devoid of warmth.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Rex was excited. "I knew it. There''s no way someone as beautiful as you would be an actress. If you were, I''d have fallen in love with acting a long time ago. So what do you do? Are you the director or the producer? Whatever it is, count me in on all your projects Rex''s manager and assistant stood there, ck-jawed. They had never seen Rex act this way. He looked like aplete yboy


    Ophelia didn''t know what to say to him. She turned to James and said, "You decide on the actors. I have something to do tonight, so I''ll be leaving now.


    Sharon followed closely behind her, ncing back as she teased, "Do you think Rex''s got a crush on you!"


    Ophelia scoffed. "A yboy like that. He''s like a cat in heat. He falls for anyone he sees"


    Thomas, who hade out with them, chuckled, "Oh,e on, you might not know this, but Rex''s got a notorious reputation in the industry for being a troublemaker, and yet, he''s never had a rumored girlfriend" Ophelia smirked. "In showbiz, who knows? He might even have kid by now."


    "Rex''s probably not even older than you, Thomas joked.


    Ophelia stopped in her tracks, turning to give Thomas a sharp look.


    Sharon also turned, staring at him. She thought. If Ophelia is considered old, then what does that make me. I am already thirty''


    Being stared down by them sent a chill down Thomas spine. I didn''t mean it like that. Miss Spencer, you''re still very young and beautiful. You too, Sharon. You''re not old"


    "Oh, I know." Sharon rolled her eyes at him. "Thanks for your exnation."


    Thomas raised his eyebrows and shrugged. "Whatever makes you happy"


    As they took the elevator down, Sharon''s chauffeur had already pulled her car up to the entrance.


    After the three parted ways. Ophelia got into her car. Just as she sat down, her phone rang. It was Bethany. "Are you busy! Didn''t you say you''de home for dinner tonight? Theo asked me to check in on you and see what you''d like to eat." I''m not picky. Just keep it simple," Ophelia replied.


    She didn''t mind Bethany''s enthusiasm. In fact, she found it rather pleasant. Since it was Keh''s suggestion, there was no


    reason to refuse


    Bethany said, "Okay then. Where are you? I''ll send a driver to pick you up."


    "No need. I''ll drive myself over."


    "Alright, just be careful. It''s cold and the roads are slippery, so take it slow"


    "Okay"


    Ophelia couldn''t quite describe how she felt. Sometimes, life was a drama. She had never heard such concerned words from the people who shared her blood.


    At Carnegie Vi, the security guards recognized Ophelia immediately. Following Bethany''s instructions, they stood at


    attention. "Wee home"


    Ophelia forgot to slow down, stepping on the gas and mming right into the ornate gates of Carnegie Vi


    Now, if it were an ordinary car, it probably wouldn''t have caused such amotion. But Keh''s SUV had reinforced bumpers, with a body made from materials used for tanks, ensuring top-notch safety. The car was fine, but the gates were crushed under its wheels, triggering the vi''s rm system.


    The guards were stunned for a few seconds before they rushed to turn off the rms. With that noise, everyone now knew she had arrived.


    "What happened?" Gerald Wells, the butler, hurriedly drove over in a small golf cart from the mansion. He scratched his head at the sight. "Miss Spencer, you don''t like this gate?"


    Tue, Nov 1,


    Ophelia cleared her throat, her expression still stoic. "No, how much does the gate cost? I''ll pay for it."


    BUSI


    "No need. Why would you pay for your own gate? Please, go on inside. I''ll handle it," Gerald said with a warm smile, bowing slightly in respect.


    Ophelia figured she''d better exin things to Bethany once inside.


    She parked the car. As she stepped out, she looked up to see the entire Carnegie family lined up neatly at the entrance. Leading the group was Theo, who smiled kindly. "My dear granddaughter, are you alright after that?"


    I''m fine. I''ll pay for the gate," Ophelia replied calmly.


    Theo patted her shoulder. "Nonsense. Tomorrow, I''ll have the whole gate torn down. From now on, whenever youe home, just drive straight in.

 Jilted Bride 100

    Ophelia felt a bit out of ce with all the overwhelming enthusiasm.


    "Don''t just stand here. Come inside already. Theo called out.


    Bethany gently took Ophelia''s arm, her warm hands wrapping around hers. "It hasn''t even been that long, and your hands are already freezing"


    Ophelia felt the warmth slowly spread across the back of her hand, and she gave Bethany a slight smile,


    Carnegie Vi''s foyer was grand, with a modern-style ceiling three stories high and an opulent crystal chandelier hanging


    several feet down.


    Before dinner. Theo called for the Lawyer to notarize a statement. "Ophelia, this is the document I had thewyer draft. From now on, you''ll be my granddaughter, and I''ll give you five percent of Carnegie Group''s shares as a gift."


    Ophelia was surprised. She hadn''t expected such a crafty old fox like Theo to be so generous, even willing to part with thepany''s shares. But after a moment of thought, she understood. It was clearly because of Keh. At least she was self-aware enough to know that


    "Alright," Ophelia responded, ncing briefly at Fiy and ra Neither of them showed any sign of disagreement. She wondered. Aren''t wealthy families typically possessive about their assets?


    Fiy looked at the young girl before him with admiration. If it were anyone else, they''d probably be jumping with joy by now. But Ophelia remained calm andposed, handling the situation with a maturity far beyond her years. No wonder Theo would choose someone like her to be his granddaughter. She had an air of control that the younger Carnegie men


    couldn''t match.


    Theo saw that Ophelia didn''t think the offer was too little and smiled, "From now on, you''ll take ourst name so that


    "No Ophelia''s tone was firm, catching everyone off guard. "I will not change my name, and I definitely won''t change myst name. That''s non-negotiable"


    Theo hadn''t expected Ophelia to be so resolute over such a minor issue. "Alright, we''ll do whatever you want. I was just casually mentioning it. Don''t let something so small upset you. You don''t need to change a thing. No matter what yourst name is, you''re part of the Carnegie family now, and we''ll always have your back."


    After Theo finished speaking. Bethany nudged Fiy. He immediately pulled out a debit card. "Elia, this is a little something from your mom and me. Spend it however you like. We''ll deposit 200 thousand dors into the ount each month as pocket money" but


    Before Ophelia could refuse. Bethany pressed the card into her hand. "Take it. I know you don''t need the money, whatever the Carnegie family kids have, you should have too. You''re twenty now, and this covers all the pocket money you should''ve had over the past twenty years. Don''t ever feel like you have to hold back"


    Bethany''s eyes were full of concern. She had done her research and found that Ophelia had been through a lot of hardship. growing up. Now that the Carnegie family was in the picture, they wouldn''t let her suffer anymore.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "I own a fewpanies. If there''s one you like, let me know, and I''ll transfer it to you" ra handed over a list of mostly high-end beauty salons and skincarepanies that she manage


    Ophelia said, "That''s not necessary. Thank you, ra


    ra was about to say more when suddenly the roar of a sportygar engine echoed from outside. Momentster, a sh of neon green appeared at the door. ra''s expression darkened a she saw who it was. "Grandpa, I''m here. Did you miss me?" The voice called out.


    60%


    At that cheeky and all-too-familiar voice, Ophelia turned her head, locking eyes with the person at the door. "Rex? she thought.


    ¦°


    Rex stood there, wearing sunsses, one hand in his pocket, the other twirling his car keys. Mid-step, he froze. For a solid ten seconds, he just stared, then quickly yanked off his sunsses, taking a closer look at the person sitting on the couch "Ophelia, what are you doing here?" Rex bolted toward Ophelia, excitement radiating from him like an overzealous husky, practically wagging his tail in front of her.


    Ophelia suddenly understood why Rex was so cocky in the entertainment industry. It turned out that he had the backing of not just one but two out of the three major families. In addition to the Reyes family, he had ties to the Carnegie family. "You two know each other?" ra asked, eyeing Rex suspiciously.


    "Of course. This might even be my future wife. Rex said proudly, his mischievous eyes twinkling as he looked at ra


    "What?" Theo frowned at Rex, and the entire family was too stunned to speak.


    Throughout it all, Ophelia wore a half-smiling expression, which only confused Rex more.


    Rex said, "What''s so unbelievable? Sure. I haven''t won over her yet, but-


    "Get that ridiculous idea out of your head!" Theo shot Rex a sharp look.


    "Why..." Rex started to argue, but in the next moment, he yelped in realization, nearly forgetting that he hade back today to meet the granddaughter Grandpa had just acknowledged.


    Rex looked back and forth between Theo and Ophelia Suddenly, he felt like he''d been struck by lightning. His eyes


    widened


    "M-Mom...tell me this isn''t true," Rex stammered, tugging at ra''s sleeve.


    ra stood up and smacked Rex on the back of his head. "Snap out of it. Either drop this idea, or I''ll knock some sense this head of yours. Take your pick


    "Grandpa, please tell me this isn''t real. Of all people, why did you have to choose my crush as your granddaughter? I''m begging you. Grandpa. Don''t be so cruel and crush my tender heart" Rex dramatically dropped to his knees in front of Theo, clutching his leg as he threw a tantrum like a spoiled child


    ra, watching Rex''s pathetic disy, was so furious she gave him a swift kick. "What crush? Elia is your sister now."


    into


    "Sister?" Rex''s face twisted in horror as he turned to look at Ophelia, feeling like his heart had just shattered into a million pieces.


    "No way! Who wants her as a sister?" Rex stomped his feet in frustration. He thought, ''How could anyone ept their crush. bing their sister? He said, "Grandpa, you can''t take her as your granddaughter, or else, III...I''ll just bash my head in" Still on his knees, Rex began dramatically bumping his head against the soft couch.


    Ophelia finally understood why Theo had earlier said that his grandsons were allcking brains. Never in her wildest dreams had she imagined that Rex was Theo''s grandson. But on the bright side, it meant she didn''t have to figure out how to deal with this headache herself.


    At dinner, Rex sat beside Ophelia, looking like a wilted eggnt, He couldn''t help but sneak a nce at her, devastated that his love life had been cut down before it even had a chance to bloom.


    "Eat your dinner, or get out, ra snapped, quickly kicking Rex under the table.


    Rex''s face fell even more. "I protest. I disagree with Grandpa''s acknowledgment of a new granddaughter."


    15.39 Tue, Nov 12 G


    ra replied, "Protest denied. Get lost."


    Ophelia couldn''t help but smile at the whole scene. The "little tyrant" outside the house was reduced to nothing inside his own home.


    Rex sulked, casting another secret nce at Ophelia. Even with that cold expression, she was stunning, but when she smiled. it was like the spring had melted all the ice and snow. "Elia, do you like shrimp?" ra asked.


    Ophelia replied. They''re alright."


    "Then Rex, peel some for your sister, ra ordered. "In the Carnegie family, our kids are supposed to love and support each,


    other.


    Rex mumbled, "I''m a Reyes.


    ra shot back. "Then don''t eat."


    Rex, feeling utterly defeated, obediently peeled shrimp. Each time he nced at Ophelia, it felt like another piece of his heart broke.


    By the time dinner was over, Ophelia''s te had shrimp piled as a mountain


    Afterward, Rex was back at it, pestering Theo. He simply couldn''t ept that his crush was now his sister.

 Jilted Bride 101

    The Carnegie family released a statement on Monday, and the entire upper-ss circle knew about it. Ophelia, who had severed ties with the Hastings family, was now the apple of the Carnegie family''s eye. A reunion party was scheduled for two weekster. Word had it that Theo valued Ophelia highly. Not only would she receive a portion of Carnegie Group''s shares, but she''d also have the same inheritance rights as the grandsons, stirring envy from everyone.


    For a time, the upper echelons buzzed with this gossip, though most of it was mocking the Hastings family.


    Hastings Group was in dire straits. With year-end approaching,panies lined up to collect debts, and Owen was at wit''s end. "Emily, sell off your shares immediately, and your wedding with Max must be pushed up."


    Emily said, "Dad, just give me a little more time. I''m already in touch with Keh"


    At this moment, Emily''s phone rang. "Hello, is this Ms. Emily Hastings?"


    Emily, on speakerphone, exchanged a nce with Owen. "Yes, this is she


    The caller said, "This is Sinir Group''s CEO''s office. Mr. Sinir would like to meet you on Wednesday at 2 PM at the top floor of Sinir Group building


    Emily was so thrilled that she forgot to respond. It wasn''t until Owen nudged her that she snapped out of it. "Yes, yes, of


    Course


    After hanging up, Emily was


    was over the moon. "Dad, Keh asked to meet me. You heard it, right? This isn''t a dream, is it?"


    These past few days, Emily had pulled every string she could Shed heard that a former college ssmate was working at Sinir Group as an intern secretary in the CEO''s office. She had sent her a ten-thousand-dor handbag, and to her surprise, it worked. Owen''s hope was reignited. If they could establish a connection with Sinir Group, the Hastings family might not only survive but could also rise to be one of Denex''s top aristocratic families. "Emily, you must look your best. Go ask Sophia what you need to prepare


    "Mm. Emily could barely contain her excitement. That face had grown increasingly blurred in her memory, yet every time she thought of him, her heart fluttered.


    Emily hadn''t slept well for two nights because of her excitement. By Wednesday, faint dark circles had appeared under her eyes. She quickly grabbed Heather''s beauty salon card and went for a facial.


    When Emily stepped out, she ran into Ophelia, who was with Bethany. The two looked like mother and daughter as they headed for their treatments.


    Emily thought, ''Ophelia, in a ce like this? Jealousy gnawed at her. Why is Ophelia so lucky? How did she end up as Mr. Carnegie''s foster granddaughter? She red hatefully at Ophelia''s retreating figure..


    Suddenly, just as Ophelia was about to enter a room, she turned around. Emily''s heart skipped a beat, and before she could. react, their eyes locked.


    Panicking, Emily covered her face with her mask, spun around, and fled. She screamed inwardly, Ophelia, just you wait After today''s meeting with Keh, who cares if you have Theo or the Carnegie family backing you? In front of Sinir Group, they''d be insignificant.


    Emily spent the entire morning carefully preparing, even styling her hair. In the afternoon, she arrived half an hour early at


    Chapter 101-


    Sinir Group building


    Emily wore a light pink tweed suit, cream-colored ankle boots, and a matching fur coat. Her makeup made her look charming and innocent, turning heads as she walked by "Hello, Ini Emily Hastings. I have a two o''clock appointment, Emily said nervously, her heart beating faster.


    60%


    "This way, please. The lobby stall escorted Emily into the elevator, pressed the floor button, and stepped ou notifying the CEOs office. immediately.


    As the elevator ascended, Emily''s heartbeat quickened with each passing floor.


    The doors opened when it finally reached the top, and another secretary awaited her. "Hello, Ms. Hastings, right? Please


    follow me


    Emily clutched her handbag nervously and followed the young secretary, her eyes darting uncontrobly like a na?ve girl new to the world.


    Sinir Group lived up to its reputation as Heloria''s top conglomerate. This entire floor belonged to Keh, and its minimalist yet grand design exuded power.


    "Ms. Hastings, would you like something to drink? The secretary led her to the reception area.


    "Anything is fine." Emily replied, sitting properly on the sofa. Once the secretary went to the break room, she finally allowed herself to openly take in her surroundings.


    The reception area was circr, and through the floor-to-ceiling windows, it felt as if Emily were floating among the clouds, able to look down on everything below. Just being in this atmosphere stirred excitement within her.


    The floor was tranquil. It seemed like not many people came up here regrly. Above the CEO''s office was a loft designed. like a sky garden


    When the secretary returned with coffee, Emily carefully asked, "Is that part of the CEO''s office also?"


    "That''s Mr. Sinir''s private lounge, but ever since his leg injury, he rarely goes up there, the secretary added, perhaps a bit more talkative than usual.


    Emily felt proud. She thought, I''m probably the only one who knows the truth about Keh''s legs


    There were still a few minutes until two o''clock when the secretary received a call. "Mr. Sinir is done with his meeting. You


    may go in now?


    At this moment, Emily felt her heart leap into her throat


    The secretary gestured for her to proceed, and Emily took a deep breath before following her into the office.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    After six months, Emily was finally seeing the man who had consumed her thoughts day and night.


    Keh was seated in a wheelchair, wearing a dark navy shirt with a subtle pattern, the top two buttons undone.


    The moment Keh lifted his gaze, Emily felt her heart stop. His features were strikingly chiseled, and amanding presence radiated from his sharp brow-he sat there like a deity


    "Say it. What do you want?" Keh''s voice was low and captivating. The kind of voice no woman could resist.


    Emily took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, thinking Keh ndeed, had treated her more gently than before. With an innocent yet pitiful expression, she nced at Keh''s legs and said softly, "Mr. Sinir, I''m not here to threaten you. I truly need your help 9% 60% Chapter 101


    Emily lowered her head delicately, her voice sweet and pleading. "Hastings Group is in desperate need of funds for cash flow. It''s a substantial amount, but Mr. Sinir, as long as you''re willing to help us through this crisis, III do anything you ask of me."


    "Are you sure?" Keh tapped rhythmically on the armrest of his wheelchair, a faint, unreadable smile tugging at his lips.


    Emily nodded eagerly. She had always known no man alive could resist a pure, innocent girl like her, not even Keh, who controlled Heloria''s economic lifeblood.


    "Mark. I need to speak with Ms. Hastings in private. Leave us," Keh instructed.


    "Understood Mark promptly left the room.


    As soon as Mark stepped outside, he saw the elevator doors to the top floor open, and Ophelia, in a gray coat, stepped out, carrying something in her hand. He hurried over to her. "Miss Spencer, what brings you here?" The nervousness in Mark''s eyes didn''t escape Ophelia''s notice.

 Jilted Bride 102

    In the office, Keh rose from his wheelchair. His tall, lean frame exuded an intimidating presence as he took deliberate steps toward Emily.


    "Mr. Sinir..." Emily tightened her chin, her gaze lifting to meet his. Beneath her white fur coat, her cleavage peeked through.


    Watching Keh inch closer, Emily couldn''t contain her excitement. A man and a woman alone in a room-what he intended was obviousBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Mr. Sinir, could you be a little gentlerter?" Emily muttered, her face flushing red. She quickly lowered her head, her fone syrupy and contrived. "Sure," Keh replied.


    The moment he agreed, Emily slid her coat halfway off her shoulder. Her manicured fingers, painted in a delicate pink. tentatively reached for Keh.


    The next second, the cold barrel of a gun was pressed against Emily''s forehead


    "Do you think anyone who knows this secret is still alive?" Keh''s voice was calm as if the gun in his hand were a casual


    essory.


    Emily''s hand recoiled in a sh. All color drained from her face as her eyes widened in terror.


    "Mr. Sinir, I-I wasn''t trying to threaten you. I swear, I''m just.. I''m really desperate. I can pretend I never knew anything about this. Please, Mr. Sinir, I''m begging you. Give me a chance. Emily pleaded. Her breath was quick, her mouth dry as she nervously swallowed. Trembling uncontrobly, she felt cold sweat drip down her back, and her face etched with fear


    Emily must have lost her mind to bring up such a thing with Keh Looking at the gaping barrel aimed at her, she felt a chilling dread spread through her body,


    Emily tried to step back, but her legs gave way, and she copsed onto the floor. She thought, ''Keh-what was I thinking. challenging someone like him? He wouldn''t blink an eye before killing. He hadn''t hesitated to cripple his own brother. Why would I think he''d spare me


    Regret flooded Emily. If only she had nevere here, never met Keh.


    The sound of a bullet being loaded into the chamber echoed sharply through the silent office.


    Emily scrambled backward, her voice trembling. "I was wrong, Mr. Sinir. Please, I''m begging you.


    ine. I was wrong


    At this moment, the office door swung open. Emily''s eyes flickered with hope as she nced toward the entrance, only to lock onto Ophelia''s indifferent eyes,


    "Why..why is it her? Emily''s mind went nk. She nced back at Keh and realized he had already lowered the gun. She breathed a little easier. She thought. But Ophelia? What is she doing here? Does she have a death wish, too?"


    A sh of malice crossed Emily''s eyes. Then, she saw Ophelia casually linking arms with Keh and showing him something in her hand. "Darling, I got us two smoothies and a few pastries. Do you want to share!" Ophelia asked, her voice light and cheerful. The tension in Keh''s frame visibly eased the moment he saw Ophelia. The harsh edge to his features softened, and a hint of warmth appeared in his eyes. "Did you drive here yourself?" He took the bags from her hands and ced them on the dining table, helping her out of her coat


    "Nope. Caleb dropped me at With your security, there''s no way I''d have made it in. What do you expect me to do? Scale all 88 floors with my bare hands? Ophelia teased.


    "You wouldn''t dare," Keh replied, yfully smacking Ophelia on the backside, like a parent scolding a mischievous child.


    They acted as if Emily wasn''t even in the room, their affectionate gestures so familiar they resembled a long-married. couple.


    Emily was utterly dumbfounded, more shocked than when the gun had been aimed at her head. She thought, ''How is this possible? Ophelia and Keh?


    Emily stared in disbelief. Keh''s voice, usually so cold and detached when he spoke to her, was now soft and tender as he spoke to Ophelia. She couldn''t ept it. She screamed inwardly, Ophelia? How is she worthy of this? Yet. Emily didn''t dare utter a word. She was terrified the gun would be back in her face. Suddenly, a memory from the film set shed through her mind. Ophelia and that young man always hanging around her... Could it be... Was that... Emilypared the figures and realized with a start that the man from back then matched Keh perfectly. She thought, How on earth had Ophelia managed to ensnare him"


    Ophelia settled into Keh''s chair, her eyes casually scanning the decor of his office. It was only then that she finally noticed the woman sprawled on the floor.


    Resting her chin in her hand, Ophelia tilted her head and looked at Keh, who was leaning against his desk. "Honey, did 1e at a bad time? Am I interrupting something?" Keh chuckled softly, his gaze fixed on Ophelia''s mischievous expression "You are." He pulled the gun back out and handed it to her by the grip. "Want me to teach you how to shoot


    "Sure." Ophelia cagerly took the gun, her hand dwarfed by his as he wrapped his fingers over hers.


    At this moment, memories from before Ophelia''s rebirth flooded back. Keh ced a gun in her hand, just like now, avenging her enemies for her. But this time, she felt the warmth of his hand, his body pressed close behind her, Emily, who had been watching, felt an icy terror crawl up her spine. Rage boiled within her. She wanted to tear Ophelia apart. But reality hit her fast and hard.


    Emily crawled toward Ophelia, all dignity abandoned. Tears and snot streamed down her face as she groveled. "Ophelia, please. I was wrong. Beg Mr. Sinir to spare me, please


    The gun was now pointed directly at Emily. She wanted to run, but her legs had already turned to jelly.


    "Bang!" A silenced gunshot rang out.


    A bullet whizzed past Emily''s ear, so close she could feel the heat of it graze her skin. Her breath hitched. Her eyes rolled back, and she fainted on the spot.


    "This is no fun," Ophelia remarked, handing the gun back to Keh. Her clear and bright eyes seemed oddly innocent despite the situation


    Keh couldn''t help but think, ''Is this little fox a bit more cunning than she looks?"


    "Mark, Keh called out.


    In an instant, Mark appeared from outside. "Mr. Sinir."


    "Throw her out Keh ordered.


    Mark nced at the unconscious Emily on the floor, then at Ophelia. He thought, "Her jealousy is terrifying


    Without dy, Mark had the bodyguards swiftly remove Emily


    Ophelia leaned back leisurely in Keh''s chair, poking a straw into her smoothie. She took a long sip, savoring the drink,


    Ophelia thought. The Hastings family is bound to find out about my rtionship with Keh sooner orter. In this life, they are already learning the truth muchter than in the past. Anyway, the Hastings won''tst long. What kind of storm could they possibly stir up between me and Keh now?


    "Want a taste?" Ophelia asked, offering Keh the cup. "Kevin got me one of these before. It''s mixed fruits, and it''s really good. She brought the drink to his lips, chewing on the fruits herself.


    Keh took a sip, his brows furrowing at first. After tasting it, he realized it wasn''t bad and took another sip.


    "Good, night?" Ophelia asked with a grin.


    "Yeah," Keh agreed


    Ophelia got up and opened the other vor of smoothie. This one had all kinds of berries mixed in, but thebination wasn''t as tasty as the one she was holding.


    Keh pulled Ophelia onto hisp, his long fingers threading through her hair. "What did you do today? Why''d youe


    sote!"


    Ophelia replied, "I went shopping with Mrs. Carnegie in the morning and did some beauty treatments. Then, we had lunch Jogether. She said she would help me pick a dress for the family party in two weeks." Keh''s hand rested on Ophelia''s waist, and he remembered the time she had drunkenly confided in him about wanting family.

 Jilted Bride 103

    Keh said. "The Carnegie family seems alright. Are you getting along well


    "You already gave them instructions. How could they not be?" Ophelia thought, "They have to be nice because of Keh. didn''t they?


    Keh said, "I only spoke to Mr. Theo"


    Ophelia paused mid-sip of her smoothie. "Wait, so you''re saying Mrs. Carnegie and the others don''t know about us?"


    "Maybe, but it''s possible Mr. Theo mentioned it Keh''s eyes were fixed on Ophelia like he couldn''t get enough.


    Ophelia chewed on the fruits, her lips pouting slightly, cheeks puffing up like a little squirrel.


    Deep down. Ophelia was perfectly aware of how people treated her. After all, she had learned the hard way in herst life. This time, Ophelia wasn''t about to open her heart so easily. If even her own family, bound by blood, had used and discarded her, what could she expect from these people, tied only by convenience and profit?


    It was best not to take them too seriously. Just as Ophelia swallowed the fruit, Keh kissed her.


    Ophelia thought Keh would stop quickly, considering they were in the office. But no-he only grew bolder, leaving her breathless, She said, "Keh, this is the office.


    "I know, Keh replied.


    Ophelia tensed in Keh''s arms, her eyes darting nervously toward the door, terrified someone might burst in at any


    moment.


    Keh held Ophelia''s head in ce, refusing to let her get distracted. He gently stroked her hair like he was calming a ruled cat. The more she stiffened, the more mischievous he became, chuckling softly against her lips Ophelia thought. He is so shameless."


    Just then a knock came at the door. "Mr. Sinir, Mr. Patrick is here."


    Ophelia''s entire body trembled uncontrobly from the tension, shrinking into Keh''s arms as if trying to be


    invisible.


    Fortunately, this time, Mark was smart enough not to barge in


    "Should I hide somewhere?" Ophelia asked, worried about causing trouble for Keh...


    Ophelia nced at the upstairs lounge, but the staircase was made of transparent ss. If she went up now, Patrick, who was outside, might see her. Then, her eyes drifted to the space under the desk. "No need." Keh said.


    "I''m just checking on my brother. Why can''t Ie in?" Patrick''s voice rang out from beyond the door.


    Keh sat back in his wheelchair, his expression returning to its usual indifference..


    The office door swung open from the outside.


    Patrick, pushed in by a bodyguard, sucered. "Fresh out of the hospital and already on a business trip. You really are working yourself to the bone for the Sinir family''s empire, huh?"


    Ophelia had Patrick figured out-he loved getting under peoples skin. His words were a nasty dig, as if Keh was nothing


    more than a disposable tool ving away for the Sinir family


    Ophelia''s gaze turned icy as she looked at Patrick in the wheelchair.


    Patrick noticed there was someone else in the room. He looked Ophelia, scanning her like an object. He smirked slyly "Well, well so you''ve started fooling around with women now? He thought, I gotta admit, this bastard has a decent taste. Patrick said, "You''re young. Why waste your time with a bastand You should be with me. I''m the eldest son in the Sinir family. Look at the guy next to you. He won''tst much longer. Best to find yourself a new branch to hang on before this one snaps." Ophelia smiled, though her eyes were sharp as ice, "Mr. Patrick, your mouth is still as foul as ever. Seems like that injection you got at the hospital was a waste" Patrick''s eyes narrowed. He was puzzled. Meeting Ophelia''s inns ent, doe-like gaze, a realization hit him-she was the nurse from the hospital. "Damn it, it''s you?" With one leg left, your mouth is still filthy. You''re just asking for trouble" Ophelia''s gaze fell on the gun under the desk. She had the wild urge to take Patrick''s other leg


    Patrick''s greatest insecurity was his missing leg. Her words cut derp Kage surged through him as he tried to stand, but his body failedHum. His eyes zed with murderous intent. "You bitch You''re only good enough to-


    "Bang" A gunshot rang out, and a bullet tore through Patrick''s other leg.


    Patrick froze, his eyes wide in horror as he looked toward Keh, who had not only fired the shot but was now standing


    Keh said. "If you didn''t w


    want your leg, all you had to do was say


    1. so.


    Patrick looked down at the bleeding hole in his calf, and the dyed wave of pain hit him, making it impossible for him to think. His agonized scream filled the office. "Kill him....".


    At this moment, Caleb and the others burst through the door, guns pointed at Patrick''s bodyguards.


    The room was locked in a tense standoff.


    Patrick cursed "You you bastard Filthy illegitimate scum! How dare youy a hand on me-


    "Bang" Another shot rang out, this time from Ophelia, who had picked up the gun under the desk. The sound was deafening


    silencer.


    The bullet hit Patrick''s leg again. Ophelia batted hershes innocently, a fleeting glint of menace in her eyes. "Oops, my bad. The gun misfired.". Keh took her gun hand in his, gently enveloping her fingers with his own. "Does your hand hurt?"


    "Mmm, Ophelia murmured. Her already pure and captivating delicate face now looked even more fragile, making Keh''s protective instincts soar.


    Caleb nced over casually. He thought, ''Is this gentle, delicate girl the same one who had just fired off a bullet like a boss?


    Keh gently blew on Ophelia''s palm. At this moment, it was like they were in their own world,pletely ignoring Patrick writhing on the ground in agony.


    "Keh, I''ll kill you! Just you wait, Patrick, drenched in sweat from the pain, looked as pale as a corpse. Blood from his leg had already stained the carpet. "Damn it, hurry. Get me to a hospital." He couldn''t afford to lose this leg The bodyguards quickly wheeled Patrick out of the room.


    243


    15.40 Tue, Nov 12 D


    The air was thick with the sharp scent of blood.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Why did you shoot him, hmm?" Keh''s tone was like scolding a child caught ying with a toy.


    "I shot for the same reason you shot him." Ophelia thought, ''How could I not? Someone dared to call my husband a bastard. Of course, I had to teach him a lesson."


    Keh felt a strange, unexinable flutter in his chest. Staring at the small, fiery woman before him, a spark of pride flickered deep within. He grabbed her by the nape, his gaze deepening, swirling with an intensity that could swallow her whole. Caleb, Mark, and the others immediately sensed the shift and wisely slipped out, closing the door behind them to give the couple privacy.


    Keh said, "From now on, stay behind me. Got that? No more pulling stunts like that. It''s too dangerous."


    "Oh Still, Ophelia thought, ''Dangerous? What was dangerous about a cripple like Patrick? Why would I be afraid of him? In this life, as long as she stood by Keh''s side, she wasn''t afraid even if the whole world became her enemy. Keh bit Ophelia''s lip in yful punishment.


    "Go on." Ophelia thrust her hand out again, expecting him to keep soothing it.


    Keh, clearly unable to handle Ophelia''s teasing, pulled her in by the head and kissed her deeply.


    Ophelia thought, ''Wait, what? I wanted him to blow on my hand, not this!

 Jilted Bride 104

    Emily was abandoned on the street and taken to the hospital after being found.


    By the time Owen and Heather arrived, they saw Emily curled up on the bed, staring nkly ahead, trembling as she hugged her knees. "Doctor, what''s wrong with my daughter?" Owen asked, his voice tight and worried as he looked at Emily.


    "The patient is physically fine, just a bit shaken. She''s in a state of emotional distress and will need time to recover, the doctor exined.


    "My sweet girl, please don''t scare me like this. Whatever''s going on, just tell me. Heather said gently, sitting by the bed, but Emily iled like she was losing her mind, pushing Heather away "Get out. It''s all because of your daughter. She she shot at me. I almost died" "What?" Heather froze in disbelief. Ophelia again? she thought.


    "If that''s the case, I''d suggest you call the police, the doctor said before leaving the room.


    Owen frowned. "Emily, don''t get worked up. Just take it slow. Weren''t you meeting Keh today?"


    At the mention of Keh, Emily''s panic surged. She grabbed Owen''s arm in desperation. "Dad, calling the police won''t help Keh wants me dead. I found out his secret, and now he''s going to kill me. And Ophelia... She''s his lover. What am I going to do. Dad? I don''t want to die."


    "That shameless bitch, Heather muttered, then suddenly paused, realizing something. "Wait, whose lover? Keh? Emily, you must be mistaken. Can Ophelia even do something like that!


    Owen quickly caught on to the critical detail-Ophelia was Keh''s lover. No wonder such a mere girl had caught the Carnegie family''s attention. His mind raced. "You rest for now. I have two bodyguards posted outside to protect you" "I will stay here with you," Heather added.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    "No, you''re not my mom. L. Emily stopped herself just in time, refusing to look at Heather. "I don''t need you as my mother. Ophelia thinks I''ve stolen everything from her, and that''s why she''s doing this to me. Go away. I don''t want to see you." Heather was heartbroken at Emily''s words. She thought. It''s all because of that wretched girl, Ophelia. Ever since she came back, she''s turned my whole family upside down.


    Just as Heather was about to speak, Owen''s stern gaze stopped her. The time hade. He needed to tell Heather the truth sooner orter.


    Outside the city, in the cemetery. In front of a vast, empty graveyard stood two slender figures, one tall and one shorter, both dressed in ck. Beside the gravestone, a solitary crabapple tree stood, its branches still dusted with snow Today marked the anniversary of Keh''s mother''s death. He had called Ophelia to the office only to bring her to the cemetery.


    Ophelia stared at the photograph on the gravestone for a long time. The woman in the picture was graceful and stunningly beautiful, her simile tender and serene, radiating a quiet elegance. This was Keh''s mother, Grace Lawrence. Ophelia thought, ''No wonder Keh asionally shows a softer side. He must have inherited it from his mother?


    Keh held Ophelia''s hand tightly as they stood there in the snow. She remained silently by his side, offering quiet support


    "Fifteen years ago today, the weather was just like this," Keh murmured, his gaze lifting to the overcast sky. "It looked like it might snow, but it didn''t. By four o''clock, it was already dark"


    Keh could never forget that day. He had watched as a ser ball rolled out from the shattered windshield of a taxi and stopped at his feet, still stained with blood.


    The falling snowkes seemed to remind Keh that everything he had once held dear had been shattered. He had watched as his mother was carried into the ambnce. Even in her final moments, she had begged him not to hate that ungrateful man who had abandoned them.


    A trace of bitterness flickered in Keh''s eyes as he unconsciously tightened his grip on Ophelia''s hand. After a long silence, he finally let go and turned to adjust the scarf around her neck. "Let''s go," he said softly.


    "Okay," Ophelia replied, ncing once more at the gravestone before bowing slightly in respect.


    Ophelia felt an odd sensation creep over her as they left the cemetery. She discreetly slipped the ring off her finger and tucked it into her coat pocket.


    Just as Mark opened the car door for them, Ophelia suddenly let go of Keh''s hand. "I think I dropped my ring. I''ll go back and look for IL "Come back I''ll send someone to find it." Keh frowned


    "No need. I''ll be quick. It''s probably near the gravestone. Let''s not make a fuss and disturb your mother" Ophelia said before returning to the cemetery.


    A lone figure dressed in ck stood at the far end near an isted gravestone. From a distance, the man''s posture was tall and straight, yet his silhouette carried a mncholy that was hand to describe.


    Ophelia watched as he ced flowers on the gravestone and muttered something, but she was too far away to hear. She had guessed right


    Keh might have been too lost in his emotions to notice, but all along, Ophelia had sensed someone following them, a constant feeling of being watched.


    If Ophelia''s guess was correct, the man standing by the gravestone was Keh''s father, Victor Sinir.


    Ophelia couldn''t quite make sense of it. She thought. After all, he was the one who abandoned his wife and child. And this... What is this? Some kind of bted remorse?


    Not wanting to be seen, Ophelia didn''t linger. She quietly turned and left the cemetery.


    now,


    On the way back to Rosewood Manor, Keh remained silent, gazing out the window, though he never let go of her hand. Ophelia knew he was in a bad mood, so she didn''t disturb him.


    Outside the car, the snow fell heavier. Ophelia rolled the window down slightly and caught a few snowkes in her hand, their icy chill seeping into her skin.


    The cold air slipping into the car seemed to bring Keh back to his senses. He tightened his grip on Ophelia''s hand and pulled her into his arms. "You like the snow?"


    "No, I don''t like it," Ophelia answered honestly, People from the slums couldn''t afford to like snow. It only meant cold and hardship.


    Keh''s gaze fell on the ring on her finger, his thumb gently tracing its shape.


    The next morning at Rosewood Manor, Keh and Ophelia had breakfast together. It wasn''t the weekend, and they each had their own matters to attend to. 15:40 Tue, Nov 12 GU


    ¦°


    Ophelia received a call from James. The cast list for With Love as My Cause had been finalized, and they were gearing up to start filming after the holidays.


    There was already a lot of buzz online, and even fan forums had been set up


    "Rex actually agreed to take the role?" James'' tone over the phone wasn''t one of disbelief but dread. He had assumed that someone of Rex''s stature would turn his nose up at the script, but to his dismay, the man had agreed to join the cast. His poor acting skills would probably ruin the entire project


    "Kevin doesn''t understand acting, so we''ll need you, Mr. Guinnes to guide Rex carefully, Ophelia replied politely.


    The more polite Ophelia was, the more James felt like he was walking into a trap. "Guide him? I''d be lucky if he doesn''t teach me a lesson instead."


    "Well, with the shoot starting after the holidays, there''s time to help him brush up on his acting skills. You''ll need to assert yourself as the director. Ophelia said.


    James, on the other end, smacked his forehead in frustration. "Miss Spencer, I''d like to live a little longer. You must know this industry has an unspoken rule-never provoke Rex Reyes."

 Jilted Bride 105

    Actors and directors who had crossed Rex in the past would find themselves banned by the entertainment industry by the very next day.


    Rumors began circting that Rex belonged to one of the three influential families in Denex, the Reyes family.


    In fact, their suspicions were right. What they didn''t know was that Rex''s mother came from the prestigious Carnegie family, giving him the support of two powerful ns. James said. "Well, you''ve seen how Rex behaves. He makes Kevin exin every scene to him in excruciating detail"


    Ophelia''s gaze turned icy. "Where is he now!"


    "Silverline Media. Why do you think I called you?" James had been fuming all morning, especially with Rex right under his nose. How could he not be this frustrated?


    "I''ll be there in a moment, Ophelia said curtly before hanging up. How dare he boss around my people, she thought.


    Mark showed up right on time. "Mr. Sinir, Mr. Ronan called all night and came to the consortium first thing this morning


    After all, with his beloved eldest grandson hurt so severely. Ronan was bound to show up looking for an exnation.


    Keh casually sipped his coffee, his eyes sharp, exuding an innate arrogance. "Send him home and inform everyone that


    hie to health reasons, he has officially stepped down to enjoy his retirement. No one is to disturb him. As for Patrick, he''s not allowed to leave Sinir Manor from this day forward." "Understood." Mark replied.


    "As for the freeloaders within the consortium, clean them out one by one ording to the list. And those overseas ounts bursting with cash-recover everyst cent. Keh adjusted his cufflinks, and his eyes suddenly softened. He said to Ophelia. Tll be quite busy for a while. If you miss me,e find me at the consortium."


    Keh gently traced Ophelia''s cheek and kissed her on the lips. He seemed no longer nned to keep her hidden away, protected


    At Silverline Media, in the artist lounge, Rex lounged on the soda in a ridiculous mingo-pink jacket, legs crossed, while munching on nuts peeled by his assistant. He was also immersed in a game, shouting into his phone, "Midne! Damn it! You dare steal my kill! Are you looking to die?" The sound effects from his game could be heard from the door.


    "You get what I''m saying, right? Sitting on a nearby stool with the script in hand, Kevin adjusted his ck-rimmed sses


    "Got it, got it." Rex replied absentmindedly, eyes glued to his screen. "Go on. Oh, crap..."


    Just as Kevin was about to read the next part of the script, the door to the lounge burst open with a loud bang


    On the screen, Rex''s game cluracter was killed in one hit.


    "Damn it! Who the hell..." Rex was ready to explode, but when he saw who was standing at the door, his face changed instantly, a flicker of panic crossing his eyes.


    Rex quickly uncrossed has legs, tossed his phone aside, and swallowed the nuts he was chewing on. He couldn''t meet Ophelia''s gaze. "Elia, you''re here"


    Ophelia''s eyes shifted to the script in Kevin''s hands.


    Rex, eager to please, hurriedly grabbed the script. "Ah, Kevin, how could I trouble you to exin the script to me? Come on. have some nuts to boost your brainpower. 111 read it myself."


    Rex quickly hid behind the script, shrinking. At that exact moment, his phone red: "Defeat"


    Rex shumpest, only to look up and lock eyes with Ophelia. His heart skipped a beat. Her overwhelming presence was just too. much for him to handle.


    Looking at the usually arrogant and over-the-top Rex, who now resembled a mouse in front of a cat, his agent and assistant were utterly confused. What''s going on? they thought.


    Rex''s agent was clearly just for show. With someone like Rex, who nevercked opportunities, the agent was too scared to cross him and just followed his whims letting him do whatever be pleased.


    Is Rex''s contract with thepany, or does he hold it himself?" Ophelia asked Jason Butler, the agent standing by Rex''s side


    Having been with Rex for a while, Jason had gotten used to dismissing others. "Why do you care?


    "Sort out his contract. Next year, he''ll be signing with SN Entertainment," Ophelia said.


    Jason chuckded, thinking. This young girl has some nerve, acting like she can give orders. Rex is my cash cow. If he signs with anotherpany, what should I do?"


    His temper red instantly, "You think he''ll just sign because you say so? Why should we listen to you? The fact that our artist is even doing your project is a huge favor. Don''t act like you car


    "Hey, how dare you talk to my sister like that?" Rex hurled the script at Jason, cutting him off. But as soon as the words left his mouth he froze, thinking. Why did I just call her my sister so easily? Jason was utterly stunned, thinking, "Sister?"


    Rex swallowed nervously, licking his lips. "Do whatever she says"


    "Yes..yes, of course." Jason immediately changed his attitude, inwardly wishing he could p himself. What did I just say He quickly adopted a respectful tone toward Ophelia, too afraid to offend her. "I-I''ll take care of it right away


    Ophelia replied, "No rush. We''ll handle it after the holidays. She thought that if the Hastings family found out that Sungate Entertainment had signed Rex, Emily would never sell her shares


    Ophelia said. "You can all leave now. I want to speak to Rex alone Kevin, you can go ahead and take care of other things too"


    The group exchanged confused nces but followed Kevin out. Soon, Ophelia and Rex were the only two left in the room.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Rex stole a nce at Ophelia, and his heart shattered again. But the next moment, he straightened his back, his eyes sparkling with hope. "You you''re not interested in me, are you? Do you have a way to stop my grandpa from making you his granddaughter? Ophelia felt a headacheing on. She could never wrap her head around how this trust fund baby''s mind worked. "1 actually wanted to talk to you about your future career."


    "What''s there to talk about?" Rex instantly deted like a punctured balloon.


    Ophelia didn''t care about his reaction and continued, "Do you n on staying in the entertainment industry, or are you going to return to the Reyes family in a couple of years to inherit the family fortune!"


    "I haven''t really thought about it." Rex had only entered the industry out of boredom Acting wasn''t something he loved or hated it was just something he found amusing


    60%


    Ophelia said, "If you want to stay in showbiz, you need to starting your craft. As your sister, I have the right to keep you in line, don''t [¡ã


    Rex covered his chest dramatically, looking like he was about try. He thought, ''Can we please not talk about this?''


    Ophelia added, "I''ve signed you up for an acting ss. Drop everything and focus on improving your skills. If not, as a producer, I''ll have no problem recing you. Others might not dare, but I will: Rex sneered inwardly, Whatever


    But the next second, Ophelia shed him an innocent, almost angelic smile. "Oh, and I''ll make sure your mom cuts off all your financial support."


    "What?" Hex instantly bristled like a startled animal. He thought How could my sweet angel be so cruel

 Jilted Bride 106

    Ophelia asked, "Why? Do I seem cruel to you now?"


    A sh of shock crossed Rex''s face before he quickly averted his gaze, feeling a twinge of guilt. He thought. ''How does she know what I was thinking? That''s terrifying. Mom is right. The more beautiful the woman, the more dangerous she is. My angel has turned into a devil in no time.


    "If you''re scared, then be good and attend the acting sses. Otherwise, you''ll have to deal with the consequences, Ophelia said as she ced a thick stack of papers before him


    Rex felt aggrieved, but the moment he thought about Ophelia''s position in the Carnegie family, he immediately caved.


    "Jason"" Rex shouted toward the door, and Jason rushed into the lounge. The way Rex had yelled was so desperate that Jason thought something terrible must''ve happened.


    I''m not taking on any work for the time being. Sign me up for all those acting sses, Rex said.


    "W-what?" Jason''s expression looked like he had just been struck by lightning He thought, Is Rex out of his mind, or had he suddenly turned over a new leaf?


    Jason nced at Ophelia with pure admiration. He thought. How on earth had she managed to make Rex this obedient! For the past two years, I had begged and pleaded to no avail"


    Rexx charming eyes drooped. If his fans saw him like this, they would be heartbroken. Even though he waszy and carefree, his face still had a lethal charm. Watching him now, looking like a wilting flower, it was hard not to feel sorry for him.


    Ophelia sighed. "How about this. If you diligently attend the sses. I''ll give you my allowance. How does that sound Bethany gave her 200 thousand dors as pocket money every month, which she intended to use to buy gifts for the Carnegie family. But it would be great if that money could motivate Rex.


    "Your allowance? Rex''s eyes brightened for a moment but quickly dimmed again. "Forget it. Keep that allowance for yourself. I''m still a celebrity, you know. I''m not exactly strapped for cash" He couldn''t possibly take money from a woman not even over his dead body. Ophelia thought, "Did I just get rejected? Well, it made sense. As long as his funds aren''t cut off, his pocket money is definitely more than mine.


    "Oh right. I haven''t given you a proper wee gift yet. Later tonight, just pick any car you like from my garage, Rex said, looking utterly defeated. The mere thought of attending those endless acting sses gave him a headache.


    "If you really want to give me a gift, go home and study that script properly," Ophelia replied, adding another book to his already thick stack of materials.


    Rex wanted to cry.


    Not long after Rex left, James came rushing in, looking for her. "Ophelia, check Twitter"


    Ophelia took out her phone and scrolled through it. There were two trending topics with hashtags: "Behind the audition of With Love as My Cause" and "Thomas and Sharon spotted leaving a hotel together."


    The original tweet was a long post by Zoe Holloway. She conveniently glossed over the events of the audition day and made no mention of herckluster performance. She even noted that everything she said was based on her personal experience, adding ayer of credibility to the story.


    Posting this just as With Love as My Cause announced its casting was certainly a well-timed move.


    I''ve already asked the PR team to handle it." James said, exasperated. He hadn''t expected Zoe to pull such a stunt just because she didn''tnd the role.


    "No need. We don''t have to respond. It''s practically free publicity for us. Let it be for now," Ophelia said calmly, though her focus had already shifted to the story about Thomas and Sharon. Why were those two spotted at a hotel? she thought.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Ophelia clicked on the photos, and everything became clear. They were obviously deliberately taken during the audition day to create drama. She didn''t need any guessing to know the person behind it.


    A newly registered Twitter ount posted photos of Sharon and Thomas getting into a van together right in front of the hotel. Naturally, this led to a storm of spection.


    Although Sharon recently gained some fame through a movie, she didn''t have nearly as many fans as Thomas, who had been in the spotlight for years.


    In the entertainment industry, whenever scandals like this arose, women always bore the brunt of the attacks.


    Sharon was now being singled out and attacked by Thomas'' fans.


    To make matters worse. Thomas won Best Supporting Actor a few days ago at the Golden Globe Awards, putting him in the media''s spotlight. This was prime time for anyone looking to ride his wave of attention. Everyone criticized Sharon, and some fans even made outrageous ims, saying she was involved with James.


    The inte was never kind to long-winded exnations, If one didn''t act quickly to counter the rumors, people would cling to the smallest detail and never let go.


    As luck would have it, Thomas was already at thepany and sought Ophelia out.


    "Miss Spencer, you''re here too. I might have an idea, but I''m unsure if it''ll work Thomas hesitated, his lips tightening-


    "Let''s hear it," James replied. Not having a better solution himself, there was no harm in listening.


    Thomas said, "Well, today, there''s this ridiculous trending topic online. People are shipping me and Rex, specting which of us would be the bottom and the top. It''s getting out of hand, and it might affect both of our future roles. Since gossip about Sharon and me is already circting, why don''t we.


    "You want to make it official?" Ophelia turned to Thomas, and a hint of embarrassment shed across his handsome face


    "No way. That''ll cause your fans to abandon you. You''re only thiny. If you reveal a rtionship too early, forget about future roles. You might not even have a career left. James warned.


    As Silverline Media''srgest shareholder, James had to prioritize thepany''s interests. They had just paid a hefty sum to cover Thomas'' contract termination fees and signed him on for big projects. Thest thing they needed was for him to be a washed-up actor before they could even capitalize on his potential


    "Are you sure about this? Ophelia asked, thinking the n had its merits.


    "I disagree. This sort of thing just needs a simple rification. No need for self-sacrifice," James reiterated.


    Thomas, however, smiled slightly, "I''ve thought it through. As long as Sharon agrees."


    "Alright, I''ll give her a call Ophelia said.


    James was speechless. He thought, ''Could they respect my opinion just once?


    Ophelia saw how deted James looked and exined. "James, you''ve got to keep up with us young people. Nowadays,


    15:41 Tue Nov 12


    Chapter 106 I


    60% 0%


    For a moment. Thomas felt as though those clear, innocent eyes of hers saw right through him.


    Before James could voice his objections, Ophelia had already dialed the number.


    Meanwhile, Sharon had just finished filming a scene on the Legacy of the Paramour set. Her assistant handed her a phone and a heat pack.


    Ophelia said, "Did you see the gossip online about you? There''s a solution. You could officially announce your rtionship. with Thomas. It wouldpletely kill the rumors. But you two will have to stay on your best behavior from now on and maybe throw out some couple moments now and then for the fans"


    "Huh?" Sharon was stunned, not quite processing the idea.


    Ophelia had kept the call on speaker, and Thomas, overhearing the conversation, nervously swallowed a lump in his throat.

 Jilted Bride 107

    After a long pause, Sharon finally processed it. "I don''t really have an issue with it. It doesn''t hurt me either way. No matter what, I''ll still be criticized." She had grown ustomed to being dragged through the mud ever since she debuted. "IF Thomas agrees, then so do 1. Ophelia raised an eyebrow, noticing Thomas let out a faint sigh of relief, his lips curving upward ever so slightly. As expected, real couples were always the best to root for. "Alright, I have Thomas make the official announcement Just remember to share it afterward "Okay," Sharon replied,


    Five minutes after hanging up, a new post with the hashtag "Thomas and Sharon official announcement shot straight to the top of Twitter''s trending list.


    Thomas posted with the caption: [Before I met you, I thought being single was great. After I met you, I prayed every day for us to be together. Thank you for giving me that chance ]


    Below the caption was a picture of Sharon fast asleep in the backseat of a car, wearing a royal blue coat and tilting her head to the side. Thomas took a sneak shot of her, with only half of her face showing


    When Ophelia saw this tweet, she couldn''t help but be impressed by Thomas. She thought, ''Well done. Looks like this was all nned well in advance. She even suspected that Thomas had orchestrated this entire public rtions storm.


    Meanwhile, Zoe still used her alternate ount to stir up trouble, attacking Sharon personally. (It must''ve been Sharon who seduced Thomas. That tramp is capable of anything]


    When Zoe posted that, she saw Thomas'' tweet and her whole world crashed. She thought, They made it official? How is that even possible? Those words sounded eerily familiar-weren''t they the lines from the scene we rehearsed during the audition" To top it off. Thomas added a few more words, rifying that "I was the one who pursued her."


    Zoe gripped her phone tightly, her eyes consumed with jealousy, Hurriedly, she led her fanbase to flood Sharon''s repost with insults. You don''t deserve to be with Thomas. Who knows how many men you''ve been with. Shameless. Break up


    The moment Ophelia saw someone stirring up trouble, she immediately noticed Thomas'' response from his official ount, fiercely defending Sharon: Sharon is the purest, most beautiful girl I''ve ever met. I had a crush on her and pursued her. If you want to me someone, me me.]


    Onemented: [Huh? Is Thomas really dating Sharon? What''s going on?]


    Another added: [I can''t handle this. Day one of heartbreak.]


    One typed: [Looks like he truly loves Sharon.]


    Another remarked: [Wishing them the best. Sharon is so beautifu]


    One cheered: [I trust Thomas'' choice. Supporting them forever, theart emoji)I


    Fans were initially hesitant to ept the news, which was understandable. But, seeing how boldly Thomas stood up to defend his girlfriend, Ophelia found herself rooting for them.


    Soon enough, the hashtag Thomas fiercely defends his girlfriend against haters began trending as fans captured and reposted the exchange, flooding thements with their blessings.


    Once the online buzz about their official announcement died down, Zoe''s im about insider information still needed to be addressed


    14


    The official ount of With Love as My Cause posted a statement on Twitter and tagged Zoe and Sharon in the post.


    Thank you to actress Zoe Holloway for your feedback. After careful consideration, the "With Love as My Cause" team has decided to host a live-streamed audition this Saturday morning. We cordially invite Zor and Sharon to participate, with the lead actress selected through live audience voting to ensure fairness and transparency.


    Zoe was utterly dumbfounded. She thought, What? They''re ying it like this now?"


    If Zoe epted the invitation to the live audition, Sharon would absolutely wipe the floor with Zoe in terms of acting skills, leaving Zoe to embarrass herself in front of everyone. But if Zoe didn''t show up, people would definitely drag Zoe through the mud for it. Zoe was trapped.


    All Zoe wanted was to get back at the production team and m Sharon. She didn''t know how this ended up backfiring


    her


    Zoe, Ive already epted the invitation on your behalf. You can do the live-streamed audition against Sharon, and we''ll see who the fans support After all, Zoe had far more followers than Sharon.


    Zoe shot a vicious re at her assistant. "Are you out of your mind?" If she went, she''d just be walking right into humiliation "Cancel it immediately. Find me some other work. Announce that I have prior engagements and no time to attend."


    The assistant, though confused, had no choice but to follow Zoe''s orders.


    As soon as Zoe skipped the live-streamed audition,izens quickly picked up on it.


    Onemented: [You were given a chance, and you blew it


    Another typed: (You imed there was insider favoritism, but when they gave you a public audition opportunity, you didn''t show Clearly, you''ve been lying this whole time.]


    People even beganparing Zoe and Sharon''s acting performances side by side. Soon enough, Zoe found herself trending for all the wrong reasons.


    Ophelia, seeing the buzz reach its peak, gave the signal. "Post the video."


    Silverline Media promptly uploaded a video. It was footage Ophelia had secretly instructed her assistant to record during the second audition round. This time, theizens exploded.


    Onemented: [Wow, I''ve never seen anyone this shameless. She can''t art to save her life and still uses the production team of bias?)


    Another added: What even was that performance? Did she think she was summoning ghosts or something! She looked like she was moved to tears by her own terrible acting I


    Someizens even tracked the IP address of the ount that had been ndering Sharon, only to find it matched Zoe''s exactly


    Onemented: [They auditioned together, but she tried to spin it like they were caught leaving a hotel together? This woman has serious ulterior motives I


    Another added: JAnd she had the nerve to hug Thomas.]


    One remarked: [Ugh, gross. Thomas, disinfect yourself quick. Sharon,e protect your man]


    Zoe''s Twitter was soon overwhelmed,pletely crashing under the weight of all the hate. Her private messages were flooded with insults, and half her fanbase abandoned her, switching their allegiance to Sharon. 15:41 Tue, Nov 12 Bu


    19 60% A


    Zoe''s agent stormed into the room, throwing a stack of documents in her face. "Thepany invested so much into promoting you, and look at what you''ve done. Forget about those variety shows we secured for you. You''re not going anymore. Apologize online right now, or you can kiss your career goodbye."


    Zoe posted a lengthy apology in no time, which somewhat managed to quell the outrage.


    Gradually, fans began to ept Sharon and Thomas as a couple They started flocking to their Twitter ounts, scavenging for any signs of affection, even specting that the two had started dating when they left their former agency together.


    In the evening, while driving back to Rosewood Manor, Ophelia received a call from Chloe. "Elia, Eric hasn''t been back to the apartment for three days. Did he mention anything to you?"


    "No," Ophelia replied, her foot pressing on the brake as the light turned red. A faint sense of unease crept into her. She knew Eric wouldn''t stay out of trouble.


    Chloe continued, "I checked the security footage. He left the studio that afternoon over the weekend and never returned. He''s a master at avoiding surveince. Thest time he was caught on camera was at the Avalon Port Dock." Ophelia thought. For Chloe to call means she sensed something was seriously wrong. The Avalon Port Dock... Why does this ce sound so familiar? She said, "Alright, I''ll go check it out."


    Chloe said, "Come pick me up. I''ll go with you."Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Ophelia nced at the rearview mirror, aware that Caleb was following her. "No need. I''ve got someone watching my back. You need to stay with Wyatt. Don''t worry."


    After hanging up with Chloe, Ophelia immediately dialed Eric''s number, only to hear a cold, automated message-it was


    turned off.


    Ophelia made a sharp turn at the next intersection without hesitation, heading straight for Avalon Port Dock.


    However, Ophelia didn''t know that as Caleb tried to follow, another car cut in front of him, blocking him at the intersection. By the time the traffic light changed, Ophelia''s car had already disappeared from sight. 1541 Tue, Nov 12

 Jilted Bride 108

    In the night, Ophelia arrived at Avalon Port Dock. It was Dendsrgest shipping dock, which was filled with containers and transport trucks. Though there weren''t many cargo ships docked this season, finding someone here was task Ophelia had called Eric several more times, but his phone was dill off.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    no easy


    z but


    Chloe had sent Ophelia the surveince footage. ording to the timestamp, Eric had been here early this morning I might have already left by now.


    Ophelia wasn''t driving fast. She carefully matched the locations in the footage with the scenes in front of her.


    Up ahead was the checkpoint. Two security guards stopped Ophelia. "Sorry, Miss, you can''t drive any further. This is the unloading area, and you can''t enter without a work permit."


    "Oh" Ophelia nodded, ncing ahead one more time. She felt the ce in the surveince footage was just beyond. What was Eric doing here she thought


    Just then, the lights on the dock suddenly red up. A cargo ship was slowly docking and six or seven luxury cars sped past Ophelia raring through the checkpoint and stopping in the open space in front of the containers. Ophelia lingered a few more minutes, pretending it was difficult to turn around while keeping an eye on the situation ahead


    After the cars parked, about twenty or thirty bodyguards dressed in ck stepped out, making quite the scene.


    Initially, Ophelia was just curious, but then she looked upward and saw a lean figure standing atop a container.


    The young man, dressed in ck, had his long hair tied up, blowing in the seaside breeze. In one swift move, he leaped down


    Suddenly, the sounds of fighting erupted


    Gunshots echoed across the open dock, sharp and unmistakable in the empty space.


    The two guards who had stopped Ophelia quickly ducked for cover.


    "Damn it!" Ophelia cursed, tossing her phone aside as she floored the gas pedal, crashing through the barrier.


    More gunshots rang out as Ophelia frantically searched for Eric


    With her foot pressing the gas pedal to the floor, Ophelia plowed through the group of bodyguards in ck, screeching to a halt right in front of Eric.


    Bullets pelted the car, and for the first time, Ophelia truly understood what it meant to be in a hail of gunfire.


    At the same time, Ophelia quickly rolled down the passenger window. "Get in she yelled. If she hadn''t been driving Keh''s car, she''d be dead already.


    Eric was down on one knee, strands of hair covering one of his eyes. He wiped the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand, trying to push himself up with one knee, only to copse again. "W-watch out." he mumbled.


    The bodyguards were closing in fast. Ophelia lowered the sun visor, pulling out a gun tucked inside. She unbuckled her seatbelt and jumped over to the passenger seat, pushing open the door to help Eric.


    Dark red blood was streaming down Eric''s pant leg, and more was gushing from his waist.


    Frowning, Ophelia had barely managed to drag Eric into the car when the group of bodyguards surrounded them,


    Ophelia quickly raised the gun with both hands, but just as fast, countless guns were aimed back at her.


    A car rolled up, its blinding headlights making it impossible for Ophelia to see.


    The armed bodyguards parted, clearing a path as a figure slowly walked toward Ophelia, backlit by the harsh light. All she could make out were the man''s ck leather boots.


    "Hand him over, and we won''t hurt you," the man said. His voice was rough, like someone who''d had his throat cut during puberty and never fully recovered, carrying a gritty edge.


    Ophelia''s eyes gradually adjusted to the light, and she finally saw the man before her. He was a middle-aged man with a thick beard, around forty years old. His sharp, hawk-like eyes fixed on her


    "And if I don''t?" Ophelia asked, gripping the gun in her left hand as her right mmed the car door shut, keeping Eric inside.


    At this moment, the bearded man paused as his gazended on the ring on Ophelia''s ring finger. He then took a closer look at the gun she was holding and the car she was driving. "If you don''t want to hand him over, then don''t. You can go.


    The killing intent in Ophelia''s eyes faded, but confusion set in. The mafia is this easygoing? she thought. She was a bit stunned, unsure if he was being serious. She kept her gun raised, not daring to lower it just yet.


    "Put the guns down, the man ordered coldly. His men exchanged confused looks and wondered what was going on.


    "Put them down and let them leave, hemanded again. Only then did the bodyguards reluctantly lower their weapons.


    Seeing this, Ophelia wasted no time. She quickly darted to the driver''s side, jumped into the car, started the engine, and sped off without a second thought, as if afraid they might change their minds


    As the car disappeared into the distance, one of the bearded man''s bodyguards turned to him, baffled. "Ray, have you taken a liking to that woman? The guy she took just injured a bunch of our men And just like that, they let her go! "Shut up." Ray snapped, pulling out his phone. His expression softened slightly, but a hint of menace remained. "Mr. Sinir, we''ve got a situation here. The cargo''s fine. A few of our guys got hurt, but the one who attacked was rescued. And the person who did the rescuing...well, it looked like Mrs. Sinir


    On the other end of the line, Keh frowned slightly. A secondter, his low, icy voice cut through. "Was she hurt?*


    "No, no, Ray quickly exined nervously. "I recognized the car. When I got closer, I saw the ring on her hand. It''s yours. So, I let them go.


    "Hmm. Next time, let her feel a little more aplished," Keh replied.


    The call ended abruptly, leaving Ray listening to the dial tone, suddenly full of self-doubt. He thought, "What did I just hear?"


    The ck SUV sped down the empty road.


    Ophelia kept ncing over at Eric in the passenger seat. His face was pale, his lips drained of any color, and his hand, soaked in blood, was pressed tightly against his abdomen. His chest was heaving rapidly.


    Ophelia wanted to say something, but the words wouldn''te All she could do was lower the window, letting the cold. wind rush in. "Stay with me" she yelled.


    Wrapped in a ck cloth, Eric''s other hand shakily reached into his pocket and pulled out a jelly. "Do you want some? 1... I stole it from Wyatt..."


    Ophelia clenched her jaw, torn between worry and anger. She didn''t even want to speak to him.


    15.41 Tue, Nov 12


    Erie tore open the packet with his teeth, and the stic wrapper was immediately swept away by the wind. After swallowing the jelly, the sweetness in his mouth slightly dulled the pain.


    A momentter, Eric pulled out another snack, this time a packet of candy. Every time, he asked Ophelia if she wanted some


    first.


    Her eyes turned red with frustration, and Ophelia mmed her foot on the gas even harder.


    Eric''s hands were slippery with blood, making it impossible to open the package.


    "Snap!" The entire packet of candy flew out the window, carried away by the wind.


    Eric let out a frustrated sigh, tasting blood in his mouth once again. "Will you just talk to me? Are you not afraid that I might die?" His voice was barely louder than a whisper, as if it, too, would be carried away by the wind.


    Ophelia, fuming, leaned on the horn. "If you''re going to die, then go die somewhere else, alright? Didn''t you say you were going to turn over a new leaf? If I hadn''t shown up tonight, you wouldn''t even be alive right now, would you? What are you doing? Haven''t you made enough money as a hitman all these years? Why can''t you just...


    Ophelia turned to look at Eric and saw his long eyshes droop


    "Eric! Eric Ophelia screamed, mming the horn again and again. Her foot pressed the gas pedal to the floor, but the road ahead seemed endless


    1541 Tue, Nov 12

 Jilted Bride 109

    Finally, the car pulled up in front of a private hospital.


    The doctors lifted Eric onto a strecher and rushed him straight to the operating room


    Ophelia ran after them, stopping only when a nurse held her back at the door.


    Chloe arrived just them, and as soon as she saw the bloodstains Ophelia''s coat, she knew what had happened


    Ophelia sat on a chair by the operating room and asked, "What the been doing all this time?"


    Chloe replied. "He''s either been downstairs at the studio during the day or outude the shop, Sometimes, he tutori Wyatt in the evenings"


    The more normal things seemed, the less they really were.


    Ophelia clenched her fists. She thought, How could I have ever believed that? How foolish of me


    "Elia, it''s his choice. You can''t change it, Chloe said gently


    From what Chloe had observed, Eric was a kind-hearted boy. He was so simple, yet so naive. He seemed our of touch w the world yet desperate to fit in. But it wasn''t that easy.


    I know, but Ophelia''s voice faltered. She just wanted Eric to live, to have the chance to be an ordinary boy, living his life in the light. His smile, with small canine teeth, had always been sweet Just then, the door to the operating room swung open.


    Ophelia shot to her feet, her heart skipping a beat. She thought. Why were they out so quickly! Her legs felt like they were made of lead. She couldn''t take a step forward. The color drained from her face. Chloe stepped up and asked, "How is he?


    The nurse said, "He''s lost a lot of blood. We urgently need a transfusion, but the blood bank is low on type A. If we go to another hospital, it might take too long. Are either of you type A "I-I am" Chloe quickly nodded.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Ophelia let out a breath of relief-at least Eric wasn''t dead. It was only then that she processed what the nurse had said earlier. She hurriedly extended her arm. Tm type A. too.


    "That''s great. Both of you, follow me," the nurse replied, quickly leading them to the blood draw room. But before the transfusion, the nurse had to run a blood test to avoid mistakes Private hospitali were fast with these things. Within minutes, the nurse returned with the results in hand. "You''re type (A," said, nodding toward Chlor "Youe with me Ophelia was taken aback. "I''m not?"


    The nurse handed Ophelia the results. You''re type O. Rh negative, not A "


    "Are you sure theres no mistake?" Ophelia asked.


    The nurse exined patiently. "We have very few patients here right now, so it''s nearly impossible to mix things up."


    Ophelia stared at the test results and frowned deeply.


    La


    Chapter 109.


    §±


    When Ophelia had been taken back by the Hastings family, she''d seen the paternity report. It said she was type A, Heather was type A, and Owen was type B. She thought, How could parents with A and B blood types possibly have a child with Of Rh-negative blood? Unless... A realization exploded in her mind,


    Ophelia trembled. She said, "Can you check it for me again?"


    "Of course." The nurse drew another vial of blood and filled out the paperwork.


    As Ophelia watched the nurse disappear into theb, her mind went nk. The next few minutes felt like a lifetime. Finally, the nurse came out and handed Ophelia an identical report


    Ophelia stared at the words "O Rh-negative" written on the paper. In that instant, something inside her seemed to dissolve.


    Opheliaughed bitterly. In her previous life, she died without ever knowing she wasn''t actually part of the Hastings bloodline. As memories of her past life surged back, a tidal wave of hatred darkened her eyes. No wonder Owen had used her so mercilessly. It all made


    sense now,


    From the moment Ophelia entered the Hastings family, she had been nothing but a pawn, a bargaining chip for their benefit. They sent her to Rosewood Manor for their interest and,ter, to that twisted old man.


    Perfect, Ophelia thought. At least she didn''t have their filthy blood running through her veins. That was something to be grateful for


    Soon after, Chloe donated blood to Eric. Once the two bullets were removed, he was transferred to the ICU. He would have to make it through the next 24 hours before being moved to a regr ward. Ophelia took Chloe back to Chloe''s apartment and then returned to the hospital, where she spent the night in the nearby


    waiting room.


    On Monday, at Hastings Group Headquarters, the secretary rushed into the office, flustered. "Mr. Hastings, something terrible has happened"


    Owen thought, I''ve heard so much bad newstely. How much worse could it get?'' He demanded, "Speak."


    The secretary said, "It''s about the houses at Lakeview Cottage, which Mr. Harry oversaw. After they were handed over, several homeowners got sick from formaldehyde poisoning because of poor construction quality."


    "What?" Owen braced himself against the desk, feeling the sharp pulse of pain in his forehead Seal off all information about this. No one can know. Offer each family an extra 30 thousand dors as hush money. Do not let this get out. Go deal with it right away." The secretary replied, "Understood, Mr. Hastings"


    Once the secretary left, Owen slumped back into his chair. He thought, Hastings Group wouldn''t survive until next year without new fundsing in


    Later that afternoon, Owen returned home. "Heather,e here for a minute"


    Heather followed Owen into the study. She knew thepany had been going through a lottely and hadn''t brought up their previous arguments.


    "How''s Emily been doing? As her mother, you should be paying more attention to her. Has she been in contact with Maxtely?" Owen asked as he took off his jacket and tossed it onto a chair.


    "How should I know? She''s locked herself in her room, sulking all day, Heather replied.


    Owen sighed, "Honey, I need to tell you something, and you''d better prepare yourself."


    60%


    Heather felt a wave of unease wash over her at Owen''s words. This was the first time Owen had spoken to her with such a tone. "What is it? Just say it."


    Owen said. "The truth is, our biological daughter is gone. Ophelia isn''t our real daughter. Back when we needed the money from Rosewood Manor, I had someone pick a random girl. She was from the slums, with no parents and no ties. I figured if we gave her food and shelter, she''d be indebted to us.


    "But now you''ve seen it yourself. Ophelia has no sense of gratitude, always bullying Emily and going against our family at every turn. We raised a snake in our own nest."


    The weight of the information hit Heather hard. She couldn''t process it all at once. "You...you''re serious?" she asked, her voice shaky.


    "Why would I lie to you?" Owen replied, pulling two paternity tests from the drawer. "The one on top is the fake I had made. The one below is the real one."


    Heather stared at the papers and finally believed Owen. "All this time, I treated her like my own daughter, and everything she has now is thanks to the Hastings family. And yet she dares to go against us? What an ungrateful wretch."


    Owen wrapped his arm around Heather''s shoulders, gently consoling her, though a sh of malice flickered in his eyes.

 Jilted Bride 110

    Emily overheard their conversation at the doorway and immediately stormed into the, what were you just talking about? Ophelia isn''t really a Hastings?"


    Emily was shocked. She thought, If I''d known this from the start, why did I even bother fighting with Ophelia? I''m the real Hastings bloodline, while Ophelia is nothing more than a pawn a bastard used by the Hastings to gain benefits, with no clue who her parents are. Why did I waste my timepeting with her and end up like this?"


    Owen said, "Don''t let this get out. Hastings Group needs funils now, and I''ve contacted a wealthy businessman overseas. He seems quite interested in Ophelia"


    At this, Heather immediately realized what Owen was nning Are you out of your mind? She belongs to the Carnegie family now. Aren''t you afraid of them""


    "Exactly, Dad She''s also Keh''s lover. Can we really afford to provoke him?" The memory of having a gun pointed at her head still sent shivers down Emily''s spine.


    "Do we have any other choice? Everything she has now is because of the Hastings family. If we hadn''t taken her in, would she have ever caught Keh''s eye? Would she have ever met anyone from the Carnegie family? It''s time for her to repay us," Owen sneered He had nothing left to fear. The Hastings family would be left with nothing but dust if they didn''t act now,


    Owen continued, "And if this whole thing goes public, do you think the Carnegie family will want anything to do with a bastard like her? She''s just Keh''s lover. Do you think a man of his status would go to war over a woman?"


    Emily''s eyes darted as she realized Owen had a point. She thought, As long as the Carnegie family hasn''t held the formal acknowledgment party yet, Ophelia is nothing more than a bastard. Once we seed, there''s no way Keh won''t see her as dirty. Why should Ophelia get what I couldn''t have?


    Emily said, "Mom, I think Dad''s right. Ophelia''s rtionship with the Hastings family isn''t great right now, and neither Dad I can approach her. Only you can. She still thinks you''re her biological mother, so she''ll give you some face, right?"


    §á§à§Ô


    "Heather, Emily makes a good point. If we go, she''ll be suspicious, buting from you as her ''mother is a different story: Once this is all over and Emily marries Max. Hastings Group will thrive. We can hand over thepany to Harry and finally take some time to travel and rx, Owen said softly, wrapping an arm around Heather''s shoulder.


    Heather sighed and rolled her eyes at Owen. Refusing him now seemed impossible.


    At the hospital, Eric had already been transferred to a regr ward


    Ophelia stayed by Eric''s side, fearing that he might disappear again despite his injuries.


    Eric leaned weakly against the headboard, his face pale, with his long, disheveled hair draping messily down his back. He sat there quietly, like a child who knew he had done something wrong


    "Are you ready to tell me now what you were doing at the Avalon Port Dock?" Ophelia leaned back on the table, her tone_sharp.


    Eric said, "I took on a job. I realized I''d been set up only when I got there."


    Ophelia couldn''t understand why Eric was still epting these kinds of jobs.


    Eric remained silent, offering no exnation. Truthfully, he didn''t know why himself. He was simply used to that life. Only in those dangerous moments did he feel like he had a purpose, like his existence meant something. But he didn''t know how


    000


    put


    that into words.


    Ophelia sighed. "So, who were you supposed to take care of this time?"


    Eric pressed his left hand against the wound on his waist and shifted slightly, reaching for his phone. The screen was cracked, but it still worked. He found a photo and tossed the phone toward the end of the bed, then turned to Ophelia. Ophelia nced down at the phone, her eyes narrowing as she picked it up and examined the image more closely. "Are you out of your mind? Do you even know who you were supposed to take out?"


    I know... Eric muttered.


    "You don''t know a damn thing!" Ophelia''s voice was sharp as ice. That''s my man. And you had the nerve to go after him?" Her clear, doe-like, innocent eyes were instantly reced by a murderous glint that made her gaze even colder than the snowstorm outside. Without hesitation, Ophelia mmed the phone into Eric''s wounded side, right where the bullet had hit him. Blood began to seep through the bandages beneath his hospital gown


    Eric didn''t flinch. He just stared at Ophelia. This was the first time Eric had seen Ophelia look like she wanted to tear him. apart. He felt hurt, like a loyal dog that had been scolded, his head hanging low. "Sorry..." he muttered.


    Only then did Ophelia understand why they had been let go so easily. She looked at the ring on her finger, recalling the car she had driven that day and the gun she had used. All of it belonged to Keh. The attackers must have recognized that. If not for him, she and Eric would have been dead by now


    or is there


    After the rage subsided, a new question crept into Ophelia''s mind. Who wants to kill Keh? Is it Patrick, or is someone else behind this?Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Can you trace the IP address of the person who posted that job" Ophelia asked her tone softening a bit. She knew those kinds of websites made tracking the user''s identity nearly impossible. Even Chloe wouldn''t be able to trace it. But if they could lock down the IP''s location, they might as well know who was behind this


    "I can''t trace it. It''s a one-way website. All the orders are posted by the site itself. Your man has too many enemies. A lot of people want him dead. I''ll just avoid taking jobs on him next time." Eric said, his tone filled with a pouty frustration. He had never seen Ophelia protect anyone like this, Lashing out like a mad dog.


    Ophelia''s face grew even more serious, thinking. A lot of people


    "But you don''t need to worry. Eric continued. "If even the second-ranked assassin can''t get the job done, no one else would dare take such a suicidal task"


    Ophelia had nced at the photo earlier and saw the bounty-Keh''s head was priced at 30 million dors. There would be plenty of desperate men willing to risk it.


    Eric said. "Go on and handle whatever you need to. You don''t have to babysit me in the hospital. I''ll cover my own medical bills. Don''t worry. I won''t be going anywhere until I''m fully healed."


    Ophelia asked, "Really?"


    Eric replied, "Yeah. By the way, could you maybe get me some stocks?"


    Snacks? You''ve got a hole in your gut. What are you thinking about eating snacks for?" Ophelia red at the young man lying in the hospital bed. She wasn''t sure how much of his words she could actually trust. "Oh. Eric''s response was short, his usual gloom resurfacing.


    "But I can buy them and eat them right before you," Ophelia teased, turning to leave the room while instructing the nurse to keep a close watch on Eric.


    15.42 Tue, Nov 12


    However, the bed was empty when Ophelia returned with arge bag of snacks. Eric was gone.


    On the bedy a medical certificate. On the back of it, a scribbled message: [Cone. Take care of yourself. I''m just not cut out for this life. I don''t want to bring you more trouble I


    Ophelia''s chest tightened in frustration as she read the crooked and misspelled words "Eric, you little bastard!"


    By the time Ophelia left the hospital, night had already fallen. She dropped the car off for repairs and cleaning, then took a taxi back to Rosewood Manor. She hadn''t even changed her clothes in two days.


    As soon as Ophelia entered the manor, she spotted a tall, dark silhouette standing by the second-floor floor-to-ceiling window with a ss of red wine. The lights inside were off, and she couldn''t make out the man''s expression due to the reflection.

 Jilted Bride 111

    As Ophelia stepped into the vi, Lisa rushed out of the kitchen flustered. "Miss Spencer, you''re finally back. Where have


    you


    been these past two days? Mr. Sinir waited for you all day yesterday, then left early this morning and came back in the afternoon. He hasn''t left his room since. He tried calling you but your phone was off. I''ve been worried sick." Ophelia thought, "My phone has died'' She nced upstairs. ''Didn''t Keh say he''d be busytely?


    Lisa added, "Mr. Sinir must be upset. He didn''t even have dinner."


    Ophelia said, "I see. I''ll go check on him." She quickly ran upstairs, carefully pushing the door open. The room was dark, with only a faint glow from the outside seeping in


    Keh stood with his back to her, posture stiff. His shirt sleeves were rolled up to his forearms, one hand dangling a wine ss, the other tucked in his pocket.


    "Why didn''t you turn on the light? Should I?" Ophelia hesitated, reaching for the switch, but when Keh didn''t respond she withdrew her hand.


    Ophelia hurriedly took off her bloodstained coat but then paused, feeling it was pointless. Keh''s men must''ve already told him what happened. "Keh, have you eaten yet? Let''s go downstairs and have dinner Still, Keh didn''t speak, standing there like a statue.


    Ophelia said, "Keh, if you''re angry, just be angry. Punish me however you want, but we can''t continue this silent treatment."


    Keh sneered, his shoulders twitching slightly. He drained his wine ss, then turned to face Ophelia. "Quite impressive, huh? What was it? Beauty saves the hero. Your skills are remarkable. Even your driving is top-notch. And that shooting stance-pretty spot on. Every word out of Keh''s mouth was technically praise, but his tone made them feel like sharp barbs.


    Keh clearly knew Ophelia had used a gun to save Eric. He must have reviewed all the footage from the dock.


    Judging by Keh''s fury, a simple kiss would not have calmed tm down this time.


    The pressure in the room was suffocating, making it hard for Ophelia to breathe. It reminded her of thest life when Keh found out she had feelings for Miles. He had looked at her the same way back then. Only now, it seemed even more terrifying Ophelia held Keh''s gaze for a few seconds. Then, her knees gave way, and she copsed to the floor with a thud. "My traitorous legs, she thought.


    Ophelia noticed a flicker of something in Keh''s eyes, so she quickly lowered her head, grabbed a nearby floormp, and held it up with both hands like an offering. "Honey, please, just hit me. It''s my fault. I admit I was wrong. Her tone was soft and pitiful. Keh thought, ''Admit she was wrong? Did she really believe that would earn my forgiveness?'' He narrowed his eyes, his chest heaving with anger, but seeing Ophelia so helplessly pitiful extinguished at least half his rage.


    But then Keh thought, Two days of silent fury, and she hadn''t even bothered to check on me. Now she thought one little "honey would fix everything? Not a chance.


    Keh said, "You ditched your protection team, went off on your own, and saved someone who was trying to kill your husband? Very impressive."


    Ophelia lowered themp, feeling wronged. She didn''t intentionally ditch Caleb and the others. She had only dared to act so


    Chapter III


    boldly because she knew they were there to protect her.


    Ophelia opened her mouth to exin but decided against it. With Keh''s temper, Caleb and the team would definitely pay the price if she said anything. "Keh, my hand hurts..."Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Stop pretending The sound of Keh setting down his wine ss was heavy and cold. He walked past Ophelia without ncing at her as if she were invisible.


    The next moment, Keh found himself unable to lift his food


    "Babe, I was wrong. I swear it won''t happen again. Please don''t be mad anymore... Ophelia wrapped her arms around Keh''s leg, her wide eyes shining in the darkness, her longshes fluttering as she nuzzled her head against his thigh like a clingy kitten. "Ophelia Sinir... Keh ground out her name through clenched teeth, fury burning in his chest at the thought of Ophelia risking her life in a hail of bullets to save another man. He thought, ''If it hadn''t been my own men that day, she''d have lost her life. She wouldn''t have the chance to act like this now. "Let go." The words came out like they were forced through Keh''s teeth.


    Ophelia immediately released her grip, sitting on the floor. "Babe, look how sincere I''m being. Can you at least give me a chance?" She knew she was in the wrong, and it was only natural for him to be angry. "Keh, my legs hurt. Could you carry me up?" Ophelia''s voice was soft, like a kitten still nursing.


    It was


    a clear act of ying the victim. Even though Keh knew exactly what Ophelia was doing, he couldn''t help but soften. He scooped her up from the floor, ced her on the sofa and turned on the light. Ophelia squinted, adjusting to the sudden brightness.


    "Your legs hurt?" Keh''s voice was sharp with sarcasm.


    Ophelia nodded eagerly.


    Keh crouched down to inspect Ophelia''s legs. "Let''s just amputate them. That way, they won''t hurt anymore."


    Ophelia swallowed hard. "Would you really do that?" She wrapped her arms around Keh''s neck, whispering in his ear, I lose my legs, I won''t be able to kneel anymore."


    Keh was utterly defeated by Ophelia. He red at her, but to Ophelia, it was clear he was no longer mad. "Not angry anymore, right? Then let''s go eat dinner. I''m starving," she said, getting up and heading for the door. Before she could take a step out, Keh grabbed her by the cor and pulled her back into his arms.


    Ophelia barely had time to turn her head before Keh held her tight. His gaze was still fierce, but the edge had softened. Soft kisses rained down on her, carrying the strong taste of red wine.


    When Ophelia woke up the next morning, she felt like her back as about to fall apart. The warm sun was already shining high outside, clearly nearing noon.


    The other side of the bed had long since lost its warmth. It was apparent Keh had been up for quite a while.


    Ophelia plugged in her phone and powered it on. She was immediately greeted by a string of missed calls from unfamiliar


    numbers


    Chloe sent two messages informing Ophelia that Eric had not been seen near the hospital. (Elia, people have their own fates. Don''t waste your energy on this.]


    Chapter III


    Ophelia texted: [Mhm, got it] Just as she was about to hit send another call from an unknown number popped up on her screen. She was busy typing, and she identally answered it. "Elia, it''s me." Heather''s voice came from the other end. Ophelia was about to hang up when Heather quickly added, "Elia, wait, don''t hang up. I

 Jilted Bride 112

    Seeing that Ophelia didn''t hang up right away, Heather quickly said, "Let''s meet in person. I''m afraid I won''t exin everything clearly over the phone


    Coincidentally. Ophelia wanted to clear a few things up. Just breause the blood types didn''t match didn''t entirely rule out everything. "Alright."


    Heather said, "I''ll book a restaurant for tonight. I''ll send you the locationter. Be there by eight."


    Ophelia lowered her eyes. Something about Heather''s tone felt off, but she couldn''t quite put her finger on it. After hanging up, she went downstairs, only to find Keh was already gone. Lisa said. "Miss Spencer, you''re awake. Mr. Sinir left early this morning, without even having breakfast


    Ophelia thought, Skipping meals is no good at all. She nced at the time. It was already noon. "Is lunch ready? I''ll take it to him


    "It''s almost done, Lisa said as she turned back into the kitchen, keeping a close eye on the chef as he finished preparing the


    food.


    Once everything was packed neatly in a thermal bag, Lisa handed it over. "Make sure you eat with him. Both of you are so busy. Skipping meals can really mess up your stomach." Thanks, Lisa," Ophelia smiled as she put on her coat and walked out of Rosewood Manor carrying the bag.


    A ck SUV was parked out front, the same model as Keh''s


    When the man inside spotted Ophelia, he jumped out of the car Mrs. Sinir, Mr. Sinir instructed Barrett and me to drive you wherever you need to go these next few days" Ophelia nced at the man beside Caleb-broad-shouldered, built like a bear. She thought. He looks familiar. I must have seen him before, but we''ve never actually spoken Caleb opened the back door for her. "Mrs. Sinir, after you"


    Ophelia thought, ''Alright, my car is in for a wash and repairs anyway. I don''t need to bother calling a cab


    The car started, and warm air filled the cabin. Ophelia considered taking off her scarf but decided against it. Instead, she opened the window for some fresh air. She made a mental note to buy a few turtleneck sweaters soon.


    "Mrs. Sinir, where to Caleb asked. "The studio or Silverline Media?"


    "Sinir Group." Ophelia replied.


    Caleb''s face remained stoic, not showing the slightest hint of emotion. He nced at the rearview mirrge- to check on Ophelia in the backseat but noticed nothing unusual. He thought ''Mr. Sinir had instructed us to follow Mrs. Sinir''s orders. Everything should have been taken care of by now!


    They passed the central hospital as the car headed toward the Sinir Group. A sudden thought shed through Ophelia''s mind. Chloe had texted me, saying she hadn''t seen Eric near the hospital.


    He was already injured and still wearing a hospital gown. No matter how skilled he was at avoiding surveince, he was unlikely to slip past all the doctors and nurses. He couldn''t have moved far with his condition, and even the hospital''s nearby cameras hadn''t picked him up. Something doesn''t add up.


    There aren''t many people who could make someone disappear without a trace from a hospital. Kennell... Around him, my mind always seemed to slow down. How had I only just pieced this together? Chapter 112


    Caleb said, "Mrs. Sinir, regarding the other day, it was our fault for not protecting you properly. Thank you for telling Mr. Sinir that you ditched us on purpose. If it weren''t for that-


    Ophelia cut Caleb off, saying, "Save your words. Tell me where Eric is if you really want to make it up to me."


    Caleb exchanged a quick nce with Barrett in the passenger seat. "Mrs. Sinir, what are you talking about? Who''s Eric?"


    Ophelia replied, "Are you really going to y dumb with me? Keh isn''t at thepany, is he? Even if I go there, I won''t see him. If you won''t tell me, then take me to him."


    Caleb nced at Ophelia through the mirror, realizing he had underestimated her.


    Suddenly, a knife pressed lightly against Caleb''s neck.


    "I won''t hurt you. But this way, you''ll have something to tell Keh," Ophelia said calmly.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Caleb gave a nervous chuckle, and just as Barrett moved to alert others, Ophelia swiftly snatched his phone. Tll say this one more time. Take me to Keh. He told you to follow my orders, didn''t he?"


    Ophelia kept the knife against Caleb''s neck, leaving him no choice but to turn the car around and head in a different direction.


    After winding through the roads, the car finally arrived at a secluded seaside vi on a penins. The surroundings were breathtaking. The lush greenery gave the ce an air of paradise.


    Ophelia sheathed her knife and ced it back where it belonged. As soon as the vehicle came to a stop, she leaped out.


    It was broad daylight, and the house had heavy curtains drawn. This gave Ophelia a sinking feeling, so she hurried forward. Several bodyguards moved to block Ophelia''s path, but they all stepped aside when they saw Caleb and Barrett. They figured the woman must be the infamous Mrs. Sinir they''d heard about.


    Two rows of bodyguards lined the vi''s entrance. Ophelia strained to see inside but couldn''t make out anything through the windows-just the faint, unsettling scent of blood in the air. "Honey, I''ve brought you lunch, she called out loudly


    The bodyguards looked at each other in confusion. Just then, a middle-aged man with a thick beard emerged from inside, smiling as he approached.


    Ophelia recognized him immediately. He was the one leading the operation at Avalon Port Dock that day.


    Ray''s


    said, "Mrs. Sinir, Mr. Sinir has already returned to thepany"


    "Is that so? Then how about letting me take a quick tour inside? Ophelia smiled, knowing full well that Ray was only here to stall her. Yet, there was little she could do.


    Ray gave a courteous smile. "My apologies, Mrs. Sinir, but we''re handling some sensitive matters here at the moment. I wouldn''t want to frighten you."


    Ophelia''s smile deepened. "Be amb and hold this for me. It''s lunch for Keh."


    As soon as Ray took the bag, Ophelia kicked his chest fiercely. Despite his towering-frame, over six feet tall, the force of her blow sent him stumbling backward several steps. The bodyguards, startled, instinctively moved to intervene, but realizing she was the boss'' wife, they hesitated.


    While they stood frozen, Ophelia wasted no time. She darted forward, knocking down several guards on her way inside..


    The moment Ophelia stepped into the living room, an overwhelming stench of blood assaulted her senses.


    Ophelia had thought she could handle it, but as she saw two corpses on the floor, with several severed fingers scattered 2/3

 Jilted Bride 113

    Chapter 113 279%Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Ophelia gradually calmed down, fixing her gaze straight ahead at Keh. I brought you lunch, and I haven''t eaten either Why don''t we find a clean ce and have lunch together?"


    The bodyguards behind Ophelia were stunned. They figured Ophelia was indeed extraordinary. In a situation where any ordinary girl would have burst into tears, she could still manage to eat. Keh stood up and stubbed out his cigarette in an ashtray already filled with butts.


    They headed up to the living room on the second floor, with Ray carrying the lunch boxes behind them. A bit of soup had spilled, but the food was still warm. During this time, neither of them said a word.


    The smell of the food filled the room, helping Ophelia suppress the uneasiness in her stomach.


    Keh picked up a piece of pork ribs with barbecue sauce, Ophelia''s favorite, and ced it on her te. At this moment, she saw his familiar side again.


    "Don''t you have anything you want to ask? Keh''s sharp eyes stayed on Ophelia.


    "Someone like him deserves to die, Ophelia responded firmly. She remembered what Lisa had told her. After Keh''s mother passed away, he went to the Sinirs, begging them to give his mother a proper burial. But Patrick had forced Keh to stand in the snow all night, and in the end, all Keh received was endless humiliation.


    Since Keh had risen to power, Patrick had made several attempts to take him down.


    Ophelia wasn''t a saint. She understood why Keh did what he did.


    T


    "The one behind the attempt on your life at Avalon Port Dock, that was Patrick, wasn''t it?" Ophelia asked, fairly certain of the


    answer.


    "Say what''s on your mind. Don''t bottle it up." Keh''s tone was calm, just like any other day.


    Ophelia said, "You''re my man. Whatever you do, I''ll stand by you-


    Keh cut Ophelia off, saying. Including killing Eric?"


    Hearing this, Ophelia couldn''t help but look up at Keh, feeling slightly relieved. At least this confirmed that Eric wasn''t dead yet and that Keh still cared about her feelings. "Eric and I grew up together-"


    "Are you sure you want to talk about another man in front of your own?" Keh''s tone noticeably grew colder.


    Ophelia could feel the shift in Keh''s mood but remained calm. "You''ve misunderstood me. What I meant is, do whatever you want with him. Whatever you decide, III support you. But since Eric and I grew up together, if you kill him. I''ll have to deal with the aftermath. It''s just such a hassle


    Ophelia''s words pleased Keh. For some reason, hearing her say that put him at ease. "True. I''ll take care of it all then. Save you the trouble."


    Ophe was speechless. But hearing the familiar way Keh spoke to her reassured her. Then, she said, "Wouldn''t it be a waste to just get rid of him? I heard he''s ranked the second-best assassin. You could keep him around to do your bidding. Besides, the person who put a 30-million-dor bounty on your head is gone now"


    "Hmm, you make a good point, Keh said.


    Seizing the opportunity, Ophelia quickly offered Keh a perfectly deboned piece of ribs, smiling earnestly, "Eat up."


    1240 Wed Nov 13


    Ophelia''s genuine sinile seemed to melt away the gloom that had clouded Keh all morning


    Knowing that Eric was still alive and recovering here brought Ophelia some relief. At least this way, she had found Eric a ce where he could settle down.


    After leaving. Ophelia received a text message from Heather Lys¨¦es Hotel third floor, Florence private room


    The moment Ophelia got the text, Heather called, Elia, did you get my message? Don''t forget tonight


    Got it. See you tonight, Ophelia replied. She thought. This feeling is all too familiar. Heather fears I won''t show up, and her tone is drastically different Ophelia had felt something was off from the start, but the moment she saw the words "Elysees Hotel, memories from her


    life came flooding back.


    Past


    In Ophelia''s previous life, it was her so-called mother who had lured her to the Elysees Hotel, drugged her drink, and handed her over to that twisted man.


    Luckily, Ophelia had enough awareness to smash a vase, using a shard to keep herself conscious. When the man approached she injured his lower body, buying herself a chance to escape. But in the end, Ophelia was caught and brutally tabbed to death Ophelia hadn''t expected things to be brought forward so soon in this life. Emily''s marriage to Miles was likely pust the corner. It was time to put an end to all of this


    Ophelia made a call, and the person on the other end quickly picked up.


    "Ophelia? Why are you calling me all of a sudden?" Emily''s voice wasced with confusion and wariness.


    Laround


    Ophelia said. "I wanted to discuss the shares you''re holding. Let''s find a time to meet. But not tonight. Your mother''s already made ns with me."


    Emily sneered, "You and I have nothing to talk about. I''m not giving up that 35% of the shares. She didn''t even hesitate before hanging up.


    But after Emily ended the call, realization dawned. She thought "What did Ophelia just say? Heather had ns with her tonight? Could it be that Heather is making her move! A sh of malice appeared in her eyes


    At 8 PM sharp. Ophelia arrived at the Elys¨¦es Hotel


    Heather was the only one in the private room She nced around nervously, checking her phone every few seconds, clearly fighting the urge to make a call.


    Ophelia showed up half an hourte.


    "You finally made it," Heather said with a tone of urgency, though her face still wore a warm, motherly smile Come, sit down. What do you want to eat? Feel free to order anything


    Ophelia sat down and casually flipped through the menu, ordering two dishes at random. "Mrs: Hastings, what do you need from me


    Heather''s smile vanished but she quickly regainedposure. Now, now, what kind of tone is that? Even if you''ve managed to cory up to the Carnegie family. In sull the one who carried you for ten months, but it natural for a mother to call her daughter? 12:49 Wed, Nov 13


    Heather realized she might have sounded a little impatient, so she softened her approach. Let''s eat first, okay? You must be freezing on your way here. Have some coffee to warm up." She pushed a cup of coffee toward Ophelia Ophelia lowered her eyes and took a sip from the cup. "This coffee... It''s not bad"


    Yes.. I had quite a bit myself just now. Excellent stuff," Heather replied, her eyes betraying a flicker of anxiety. Only after watching Ophelia drink did she let out a sigh of relief. "You sit tight. I''m just going to the toilet." "Okay. Ophelia replied.


    Heather walked to the door and nced into the room. Seeing Ophelia casually take another sip, Heather finally rxed as she walked out.


    Unbeknownst to Heather, Ophelia had noticed everything. Earlier, she had Caleb disguised as a waiter and discreetly swapped out the coffee while Heather nervously waited.


    Ophelia nced at Heather''s coat and scarf hanging on the rack A few strands of hair clung to them. She pulled off two, making sure one had a hair follicle, and carefully stored them in a sealed bag Then, Ophelia returned to her seat,id her head on the table, and pretended to have fallen into the trap.


    At this moment, the door of another private room opened, and Emily stepped out, wearing a hat and mask. She had to see for herself that Ophelia was delivered into that old man''s bed and then she could feel satisfied

 Jilted Bride 114

    12.49


    Emily pushed open the private room door where Ophelia was and saw her lying unconscious on the table. She walked over slowly, her eyes filled with resentment. She thought, ''It''s all because of Ophelia that I have ended up like this. Looking at Ophelia''s captivating face, Emily felt a surge of jealousy and hatred, wishing she could destroy that face immediately.


    Emily picked up a nearby goblet, contemting smashing it and using the shards to mar Ophelia''s face. "Ophelia," she sneered "tonight will be your downfall. She thought, No matter how stunning you are, you will be too filthy for anyone to desireBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Just as Emily put down the goblet, Ophelia slowly opened her eyes, propped her head up with one hand, and stared at Emily with clear, unwavering eyes.


    Emily gasped, "You, you''re not. Before she could finish, a sharp blow struck the back of her neck, rendering her unconscious


    Ophelia sat up straight, stretched leisurely, and signaled to Caleb, who was dressed in hotel staff attire.


    Caleb understood and took Emily away.


    After a while, Heather cautiously brought herckeys back to the private room. Seeing Ophelia slump over the table, she immediately instructed herckeys to carry Ophelia to an upstairs room and even took a photo to send to Owen. She reported [It''s done.] Looking at the photo Heather sent, Owen smiled with satisfaction. He then contacted the overseas businessman, but his phone was turned off. He thought, ''He just can''t wait already, can he?'' After tonight, Owen would have 30 million dors.


    As soon as they entered the hotel room, Ophelia''opened her eyes. The two men who had brought her in hadn''t even reacted before she delivered a heavy blow to the back of their necks, causing them to copse,


    Minutester, a pot-bellied many on the bed, holding the petite and charming Emily in his arms, with two muscr bodyguards in ck standing nearby.


    Ophelia poured a pre-prepared substance into the humidifier and quickly turned it on after leaving the room.


    "Emily, enjoy your night," Ophelia said, then turned to Caleb. "Don''t forget to go in and retrieve the items first thing in the morning"


    "Understood Caleb nodded.


    Past five in the morning, with the sky still a dull gray, Emily limped out of the room, draped in a coat. The events of the previous night were still vivid in her mind. A cold breeze sent shivers down her spine as she caught her gwn reflection in the elevator mirror-disheveled and brok


    Emily screamed. "How could this happen? Ophelia, it was all her doing. I''ll make sure you pay for this."


    By the time Emily returned to Hastings Vi, daylight had broken.


    Owen and Heather wereing downstairs for breakfast when they spotted Emily staggering inside, lookingpletely distraught. "Out so early? Where have you been?" Owen asked.


    Emily, pale-faced and expressionless, seemed not to hear a word. She walked past them without a nce and headed straight to her room.


    Owen frowned. Go check on her, Something''s off. Was Emily homest night?"


    Heather said. "I have no idea. She''s been locking herself in her roomtely, I don''t know if she''sing or going"


    "What kind of mother are you if you can''t keep track of your own daughter?" Owen, now worried, hurried upstairs and knocked on Emily''s door. "Emily, open the door. What happened Are you alright?"


    The sound of shattering ss came from inside. Owen opened the door, only to see Emily hurling a vase toward him. It would have hit him square in the head if he hadn''t dodged in time. Holding back his anger, Owen demanded, "Where did you gost night?" Before Emily could answer, Owen''s phone rang. Seeing it was the overseas businessman, his anger quickly faded, reced by a fawning tone as he answered, "Hello, Mr. Noyes. Were you satisfied withst night? If everything went well, perhaps wel could discuss when-


    Ronald Noyes replied, "Satisfied Don''t kid yourself. What kind of trash did you send me? Do you think I wouldn''t notice if you tried to drug me? Just wait, Owen, you''re going to pay for this."


    Owen panicked. "Wait, Mr. Noyes, please But the line went dead.


    Stunned, Owen immediately called Heather over. "Didn''t you tell me everything was settled? Why is Mr. Noyes furious?" Owen paused as his gazended on Emily standing in the room, His eyes narrowed as he noticed the red marks on her neck He thought about her strange behavior this morning and realized exactly what had happened.


    Owen pped Heather across the face. "Can you do anything right?"


    Heather was stunned. She shot back. "Owen, how dare you hit me? I sent you the photost night. I saw Ophelia taken into that room with my own eyes."


    The shouting had roused Nathan from his sleep/He groggily emerged from his room, annoyed by the chaos unfolding in


    the house


    Emily turned and shut herself in the bathroom, clutching her head and sobbing silently. But her voice waspletely gone.


    Owen was frantic. He thought, Tf Emily is in this state, how can she marry Max? Meanwhile, Heather was still bickering with him, only adding to his stress. The pressure mounted until, all of a sudden, everything went ck, and he copsed to the floor with a heavy thud. Nathan, startled by the sound, turned around to see his father lying motionless on the ground. "Dad! Dad, what''s wrong?" Heather was just as shocked, shaking Owen''s limp body. "Owen, don''t scare me. Someone call an ambnce, quick!" Early in the morning, Owen was rushed to the hospital. Fortunately, it was only high blood pressure triggered by extreme emotional stress, which led to a temporaryck of blood flow. After taking some medication, he regained consciousness


    Heather was beside Owen, wiping her tears and sobbing, "What are we going to do about what happenedst night? Emily can''t just suffer like this for nothing. If that businessman doesn''t pay up, we''ll report it to the police


    Owen shouted, "We can''t go to the police. What happenedst night doesn''t matter mymore. The priority now is making sure Emily marries Max. With the Lewis family backing, we''ll have a chance to secure investments. Without money, Hastings Group won''t even make it to next year."


    "But with everything that''s happened, what can we do now?" Heather sniffled.


    Owen shot Heather a look of disgust.


    Just then, Sophia entered the hospital room. "Mr. Hastings, I heard you were unwell, so I came to check on you." She held a bunch of flowers, her face full of concern.


    273


    §±


    Heather saw it was Sophia, and her tears started anew. She grabbed Sophia''s hand, crying even harder and recounting the


    recent events.


    Sophia nced at Heather''s swollen cheek, immediately guessing that Owen must have struck her.


    "Heather, don''t be so upset, Sophia said gently. "I agree with Mr. Hastings. The most pressing matter is getting Emily married to Max. It''s the only way to save Hastings Group. Crying won''t fix anything." Heather wiped her tears. "I know, but what can we do now? How can we possibly get Max to agree to marry Emily?"


    Sophia''s eyes glinted and suggested, "What if we just make it a done deal?"

 Jilted Bride 115

    After Sophia finished speaking, she immediately locked eyes will Owen. I was just casually saying, but really, with a little. maniption, this could be handled. There''s no other option now, right? I guess poor Emily will just have to bear the burden


    hate seeing the constant conflict in your family"


    Sophia pretended to be offering sincere advice, acting as though she was genuinely trying to help them. "Mr. Hastings, I know you value your reputation and wouldn''t want to sacrifice your daughter''s happiness unless absolutely necessary. How about this-leave it to me. I "You always know what to do. Heather grasped Sophia''s hand, her face full of gratitude.


    The difference between Heather and Sophia was stark. At this moment, just seeing Heather filled Owen with disgust and revulsion. He thought. If it weren''t for Heather''s family''s influence, why would I have married such a fool instead of Sophia Meanwhile, a luxurious yacht was anchored in the middle of the sea.


    On the deck, a man tightly bound suddenly shuddered awake, the breeze jolting him to consciousness. Terrified, he nced around and saw nothing but endless ocean, causing his entire body to tremble in fear. "Wh-who are you?" Ophelia emerged from the cabin, draped in a ck coat. At the sight of his repulsive face, memories of the tragic end of her previous life shed vividly in her mind. "Mr. Noyes, it''s been a while."


    Ronald looked up, and when he saw Ophelia''s innocent face, lust flickered in his gaze. He quickly remembered. Isn''t this the girl who was supposed to be my entertainmentst night? But she failed to show up in my room.


    Ronald said, "Have we met before? We don''t have any grudges. Why did you bring me here? Look, let me go, and I''ll give you whatever you want. He wriggled, utterly clueless about Ophelia''s intentions.


    "Really? You''ll give me anything I want?" Ophelia blinked, her tone as innocent as a child''s


    Seeing this, Ronald grinned, sleazy. "Of course," he said, his toneced with lecherous deceit.


    "Then I''ll take your life," Ophelia replied, her harmless smile widening. Her doe-like eyes narrowed slightly as if she were joking, but their coldness sent chills down Ronald''s spine.


    Ronald shuddered. "Wh-what kind of joke is this?"


    "Do I look like I''m joking?" Ophelia asked.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Caleb and Barrett stepped forward from either side, binding Ronald''s hands apart like a prisoner about to be tortured. Before Ronald could respond, a strip of ck tape was pped across his mouth, silencing him. Terrified, he looked at Ophelia as he tried to retreat, but his body was immobilized.


    "Mrs. Sinir, it''s about to get messy. Perhaps you''d prefer to rest in the cabin," Caleb suggested.


    "No need," Ophelia replied calmly, her expression unchanged. Her clear eyes, though, were frosted with an icy determination. She wanted to witness it-watch as Ronald died helplessly, just as she had in her previous life.


    Caleb raised a whip soaked in seawater andshed it across Ronald''s body again and again


    Ronald''s screams echoed, but no one would hear out in the deste sea ore to his rescue. His clothes were soon shredded, his skin torn and bleeding. Just like Ophelia had been


    Each time Ronald passed out from the pain, Barrett would douse him with a bucket of seawater, forcing him back into consciousness. The torment was unbearable. His bloated, grotesque face flushed and paled as he silently screamed. "That should do it." Ophelia finally said, pulling out a knife and tossing it to Caleb.


    Caleb quickly took the knife, discarding the whip as he began stabbing Ronald methodically in various parts of his body. Each stab was shallow, not deep enough to kill, but enough to make him bleed profusely.


    In no time, Ronald''s body looked like a honeb, riddled with holes, with no untouched spot left.


    Ronald convulsed in pain, his eyes half-closed, barely clinging to life. "Attach the sandbags and throw him into the sea, Ophelia ordereil.


    "Got it," Caleb and Barrett responded, promptly setting to work


    As Ophelia turned and walked back into the cabin, Barrett muttered to Caleb while untying the ropes, "Who would''ve thought someone as innocent and sweet-looking as Mrs. Sinir could be this ruthless? She even knows about using sandbags to sink him. You think Mr. Sinir can handle her at home?"


    Caleb shot Barrett a warning look. "Shh! You''d better watch your mouth. She might decide you''re next"


    Barrett instantly shut up.


    A loud ssh echoed as water erupted from the sea. The surface was quickly stained with blood. At this moment, Ronald ceased to exist. Ophelia watched it all unfold with a cold, detached gaze, exhaling slowly. Unconsciously, she became more and more like Keh in her ways. The next day, news broke that the Lewis and Hastings families would unite through marriage, with the wedding set for three dayster.


    It was happening at nearly the same time as in Ophelia''s previous life, but this time, everything felt worlds apart.


    It was close to holidays, and few people got married at this time


    The wedding was rushed, and nothing was properly prepared-there were no engagement photos, and even the wedding dress was rented.


    Emily stood in front of the mirror, staring at herself in the wedding gown. The marks on her skin hadn''t yet faded, so she couldn''t wear anything revealing. She had to cover herself from head to toe. Her eyes brimmed with hatred, no longer the naive girl she once was. Emily reminded herself that she had to survive, for revenge awaited her. She needed to ensure that Ophelia met a miserable. end, and she had to stay alive to see it through.


    "Emily, why didn''t Maxe with you today?" Heather nced toward the entrance of the bridal shop, frowning. It didn''t seem right for the bride to try on her wedding dress without the groom present.


    Sophia chimed in, trying to soothe Heather. "It''s the end of the year, all thepanies are busy. Let''s cut him some ck." Heather sighed and walked over, taking Emily''s hand. "You''re about to get married. Cheer up a little."


    Emily sneered inwardly, ''Cheer up? How can I possibly cheer up She had seen through it all. She was nothing more than a pawn in this marriage alliance, and they''d even resorted to such Hespicable methods to secure it.


    12 49 Wed, Nov 13


    2478%E


    Emily pulled her hand back no longer bothering to hide her disdain for Heather "This one will do, she said coldly, having lost all interest in trying on more dresses.


    At Lewis Manor, Heather said, "Mrs Lewis, please have a look. Everything''s been arranged. The party is booked, and the wedding will be held at the Highline Hotel. We''ll make sure the Lewis family looks good."


    Heather spoke as if she were Aubrey Lewis'' subordinate despite being the mother of Aubrey''s son''s future wife


    From the start, the Lewis family hadn''t lifted a finger. It was the Hastings family rushing around, taking care of everything


    "Look good Then why didn''t you book the Evend Hotel?" Aubrey''s tone was sharp, offering Heather and Owen no good look. "Max could ve married a Carnegie, but look what happened. Your family pulled quite the trick, raising such a seductive girl and using such underhanded tactics"


    The muscles on Owen''s face twitched, and his face turned red. No matter what they said, he could only endure it now. As long as the wedding was done, the interests of the Hastings family and the Lewis family would be tied together. Thepany would have cash flow.

 Jilted Bride 116

    6


    The wedding day arrived quickly.


    The Highline Hotel, a five-star resort close to the beach, was rtively quiet this time of year, making the costs more


    affordable.


    The ballroom wasvishly decorated, with a romantic sea of pink roses and two rows of columns tied with white ribbons. Sixty-six tables were set up for the reception.


    Although it fell short of a true high-society wedding, this was the best the Hastings family could manage.


    Over the past few days, invitations from the Hastings family had been sent to everyone, from the three major families to the smallest households. Most esteemed guests only showed up out of respect for the Lewis family. Owen and Harry were chatting with a few important guests while those from smaller families, feeling left out, gathered to gossip.


    One said, The Lewis family sure knows how to cut corners. This table couldn''t have cost more than a few thousand dors And the decor? Pretty underwhelming. They clearly don''t care much about the bride they''re bringing in Another replied, "Not just that. The wedding wasn''t even arranged by the Lewis family."


    One was surprised. "Really: I thought it wasmon knowledge that Mr. Lewis and Ms. Hastings were madly in love. They used to be inseparable at all the big social events,"


    Anotherughed. That''s ancient history. Have you seen the rumors online about the Hastings foster daughter in the past six months The Lewis family isn''t stupid"


    One asked. "Then why are they even bothering with a wedding?


    Another replied, "You clearly don''t know the whole story. Word has it that Emily drugged Mr. Lewis, and they were caught by the media during well, you know at a hotel. Emily was left in quite a state by Mr. Lewis. Let''s just say that."


    One said, "So, to save face and silence the public, the Lewis family had no choice but to rify to the media that they were getting married. This whole wedding? It''s just for show, Haven''t you noticed how few members of the Lewis family actually showed up?" Another replied, "Oh, that''s what''s happening."


    The wedding was scheduled for 10 AM.


    In the hotel dressing room, Emily sat in front of the vanity, dressed in a white wedding gown with wless makeup. Behind her stood Heather, putting on the wedding veil for Emily.


    Due to the Lewis family''s demands, the usual formalities of the wedding were skipped, and both families arrived at the hotel separately.


    Soon, Miles entered the dressing room, dressed in a deep blue suit. Noticing him, Heather excused herself and left the


    As Heather stepped out, a hotel attendant approached with a gift box. "Are you Mrs. Hastings? This gift is for you.


    "A gift?" Heather took the beautifully wrapped box. "This must be for Emily, right?"


    The hotel attendant said, "Thebel says it''s for you. You might want to open it."Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Heather stared at it for a few moments before casually unwrapping the package. Inside, resting on pale pink raffia, was a


    paternity test. [Blood rtion: 98.99% Stamped with a bold red mark: Confirmed blood rtion.) She looked at the names. [Emily Hastings, Owen Hastings]


    Heather frowned and looked up, intending to ask who had sent but the attendant had already disappeared. She thought, Who would pull such a cruel prank?'' Frustrated, she tossed the documents into the trash.


    In the dressing room, Emily had finished her hair and ced her veil. "Max, do I look beautiful?" she asked sweetly.


    Miles'' expression was cold as he cast Emily a quick nce. In his mind, he couldn''t help but picture another face-one pure and innocent.


    "Max, you once promised me that you''d make me your wife, and now you''ve kept your word," Emily said, trying to please him. She knew that this was her only way forward. Marrying Miles was herst chance to turn things around. But the moment her hands touched Miles, he shoved her away with icy disdain.


    "Any feelings we had ended the moment you drugged me. I can''t believe you turned out to be this kind of person." Miles


    said


    "Max. I already told you I didn''t know what happened that night. You were so rough with me, and it was my first time... Isn''t this wedding to protect your reputation? Yet you''re still treating me like this?" Emily''s voice trembled with frustration.


    Emily''s voice only deepened Miles'' disgust. "Enough with the tears. You''ve already gotten what you wanted, so stop. pretending." he snapped before turning and walking out without a second nce, leaving Emily seething.


    Miles headed downstairs to clear his mind. As soon as the elevator doors opened on the first floor, he saw a familiar figure. He blinked, thinking his eyes were deceiving him.


    Ophelia wore a white, vintage-stylece dress with gold embroidery, her shoulders draped in a khaki coat. Light makeup highlighted her natural beauty-elegant and subtle. Ophelia stood in stark contrast to the woman in the dressing room upstairs. Even the thought ofparing them was an insult to Ophelia.


    1


    "Elia..." Miles called her name, his voice nervous, his gaze fixed on her.


    Ophelia, who had been registering her gifts at the reception, heard him and turned slightly. She smiled faintly, "Mr. Lewis/ congrattions on your wedding


    Ophelia''s tone was casual, like that of an old friend, which made tiles feel ttered. But her congrattions made him feel awkward. "You... Why are you here?"


    Miles quickly averted his eyes when he remembered Ophelia

 Jilted Bride 117

    Chapter


    117


    "What are you doing here?" Heather was seething at the sight of Ophelia, remembering how much Emily had suffered at her


    hands.


    But Ophelia didn''t even lift her eyes,pletely ignoring Heather.


    "And you. Heather turned to Miles. "Why did you bring this woman here? This ungrateful girl has long since had nothing to do with the Hastings family."


    After all, Ophelia wasn''t even Heather''s biological daughter. The Hastings family had raised her and lified her to where she currently was, yet she dared to act so arrogantly instead of being grateful.


    Ophelia responded calmly. "You''re right. I have nothing to do with the Hastings family. I''m here on behalf of the Carnegie family. But since I''m not wee, I''ll take my leave."


    Ophelia turned to go, but Miles quickly stepped forward to stop her.


    The crowd around them gasped at the mention of the Carnegie family, suddenly realizing who Ophelia was. No wonder she seemed so familiar, with such amanding presence.


    Ophelia was the new member of the Carnegie family that Theo had acknowledged. Not only did she own shares in thepany. but she also stood to inherit the Carnegie fortune. No one in the room could match her status. The fact that she was even attending the wedding on behalf of the Carnegie family was already a huge honor


    Owen was too exasperated to say more about Heather, the idiot


    Meanwhile, a few prominent business leaders, people Owen himself barely had high enough status to approach, were now fawning over Ophelia, their wives in tow.


    Owen was left awkwardly sidelined


    Fortunately, the wedding ceremony began.


    The cameras panned across the room as the emcee skillfully delivered his opening lines. But hardly anyone was paying attention to the ceremony. They were all too busy trying to greetOphelia.


    Even Miles, standing at the front and waiting for the bride, couldn''t help but sneak nces at Ophelia, now the center of everyone''s attention. Watching others offer her drinks and strike up conversations with her, a wave of jealousy and longing rose inside Miles.


    Soft, melodic music filled the air as the lights shifted to the hall entrance. The grand doors slowly swung open, revealing. Emily, arm in arm with Owen, as they made their way down the aisle.


    With a gentle smile, Emily clutched her bouquet, walking steadily toward Miles without ncing at either side.


    Beaming pridefully, Owen handed Emily''s hand over to Miles.


    Down below, Heather was overwhelmed with emotion.


    Miles took Emily''s hand, leading her to the front. But as they turned to face the crowd, Emily suddenly froze, her smile faltering.


    Emily thought, ''Ophelia? What is she doing here? The woman she despised to her very core had appeared at her wedding. Hatred surged through her veins, so intense that it made her tremble uncontrobly. Her face contorted with rage. Sensing something was wrong with Emily, Owen quickly stepped in, blocking her view. "It''s your wedding day. Let''s deal with thatter."


    Emily forced herself to push down the storm of emotions inside


    The atmosphere between the bride and groom grew increasingly tense, and the emcee, sensing the shift, did his best to steer the ceremony back on track.


    "Ms. Emily Hastings, the emcee asked, "do you take Mr. Miles Lewis as your husband? To love and cherish, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, until death do you part?"


    "I do, Emily replied, her voice tight as she forced a weak sinile. The moment she saw Ophelia, an inexplicable sense of dread had gripped her heart.


    "And Mr. Miles Lewis, the emcee continued, "do you take Ms. Emily Hastings as your wife? To love and cherish, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, until death do you part?"


    Miles lowered his gaze, his throat suddenly dry. The words caught somewhere deep inside. Without realizing it, his eyes drifted toward Ophelia in the crowd below.


    Emily''s eyes zed with fury, her fingers gripping the bouquet so tightly that her knuckles turned white.


    The emcee, sensing the tension, awkwardly repeated the question.


    "I... I do," Miles finally muttered, forcing the words out.


    "Now, let the couple exchange rings, the emcee continued.


    Just as those words fell, instead of the soft, romantic melody expected, the speakers sted out something crude and indecent. The entire room froze in shock, guests exchanging bewildered nces as the sounds of a woman moaning filled the hall, causing them flushed in embarrassment.


    Snapping out of her daze, Emily immediately withdrew her hand from the ring.


    "What''s going on? Was there a mistake with the audio?" Owen stood up, attempting to calm the guests.


    But then, the LED screen on the stage flickered to life, ying a video that left the entire room speechless. The scene was obscene and impossible to ignore and gasps rippled through the crowd like wildfire.


    "What the hell? Are they seriously showing an adult film at a wedding?" someone eximed.


    "No, look closer. That''s the bride!" another voice shouted, stunned.


    "This is insane," one said.


    "Turn it off. Turn it off now!" Emily screamed, panic overtaking her. She lunged toward the screen, desperate to shut it down, but her wedding dress made it impossible to move freely She stumbled and fell to the floor, helpless.


    Owen rushed to the stage, yanking the plug from the LED screen, but the haunting sounds still echoed throughout the hall


    Miles nced over his shoulder and felt his stomach turn. "It''s so fucking disgusting." he spat, throwing the ring he was going to exchange in Emily''s face before storming off. The very thought of spending even a single night with her made him nauseous. He couldn''t help but worry about what kind of diseases she might carry.


    Everything unraveled within minutes. Aubrey charged onto the stage and grabbed Emily by the hair, delivering p after p to her face.


    She cursed. "You filthy little tramp. I knew your Hastings family was rotten to the core. Gallivanting around like this, and you dare to frame my son? You thought you could y your dirty games with us? Shameless wretch. I''ll beat you to death today" Emily screamed, covering her head, the sound eerily matching the one still ying over the speakers.


    Heather and Sophia hurried to the stage to shield Emily. The scene descended into utter chaos.


    1


    After several minutes of brutal blows, Aubrey got tired. She grabbed the emcee''s microphone and announced, "This wedding is canceled."


    All eyes turned to the Hastings family, filled with contempt and disgust.


    After the Lewis family departed, all the prominent guests follows, leaving only a handful of onlookers from the lower. ranks to witness the drama unfold.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    The Hastings family really messed up this time. They mistook a fake diamond for a real one,vishing attention on a foster daughter while neglecting their own flesh and blood. It''s beyond me," one woman remarked, shaking her head.


    "Exactly. And this bastard dares to engage in such disgraceful acts. Who knows what dirty blood runs through her veins? The Hastings family must be incredibly bold to adopt anyone, another added, scothing.


    Emily watched her wedding crumble into chaos, her gaze fixed on Ophelia, a burning desire to kill the woman coursing through her.


    "You don''t understand anything!" Emily shouted. "Ophelia is the real bastard. I''m not. I am a real Hastings. I carry the blood of the Hastings family. My father is Owen."


    The sound from the speaker cut off abruptly. Emily''s desperate cries echoed in the silent hall.

 Jilted Bride 118

    Listening to their mocking words, Heather felt a chill creep over her body. She nced at Owen, then at the daughter she had cherished for twenty years in disbelief. Her mind shed back to that paternity test, and the memory of how Owen had always favored Emily


    flooded her thoughts. At this moment, everything became painfully clear.


    For the past twenty years, Heather had thrown away her own flesh and blood only to raise the child of Owen''s mistress.


    Ophelia sneered faintly, devoid of any sympathy for Heather, She thought, "How does it feel to hear the truth from the mouth of the daughter you loved the most?"


    The shock was too much, and Harry, Nathan, and Scott froze, unable to process the devastating revtion.


    Just then, a group of uniformed police officers burst through the door. "Excuse me, who here is Harry Hastings?"


    All eyes in the room turned to the table at the front.


    Still, in a daze, Harry heard his name called and stood up defenselessly. "I... I am."


    The officers strode over, shing their badges. We''ve received reports that the upscale housing project, Lakeview Cottage. which you oversaw, has severe structural issues, making it unsafe for habitation. You are suspected of deceiving consumers andmitting serious fraud. Pleasee with us." The officer stated firmly, leaving no room for argument.


    Before Owen could say anything, two officers cuffed Harry and led him away like a criminal.


    Dad. please, help me," Harry pleaded, panic and terror filling him.


    Owen thought. It''s over. It''s all over... His vision darkened, and he nearly copsed.


    Sophia was on the verge of tears, her tear-streaked face almost a perfect replica of Emily''s. Heather finally understood everything.


    Sophia pleaded, "Mr. Hastings, please think of something. You need to save our son."


    "Our son? What did you say? Your son Heather''s head exploded with shock. She had always thought she only gave birth to one child, but everyone around her had insisted it was twins-two sons. Now, it all made sense.


    "Owen, you...you better exin this to me. Are Harry and Emily both your children with her? Were you two involved even before we got married? Heather shouted, her body trembling uncontrobly. She grabbed a champagne ss from the table and hurled it at Owen. Owen dodged. "You''re right, you crazy woman. I''m not afraid to tell you the truth anymore. If your family hadn''t agreed to fund my business, do you think I would''ve married you? You were the third wheel between me and Sophia all along


    Heatherughed hysterically. For all these years, she had been yed for a fool, tricked by the two people she trusted the most. She had been raising others'' son and daughter, pouring her heart and soul into a lie. Heather copsed onto the floor, pping her own face in despair, tears streaming down her cheeks.


    "Mom, please stop. Scott rushed forward to stop Heather.


    Emily stood there, indifferent to the chaos. Her mind was consumed by hatred for Ophelia-she was the one who had ruined everything today. She wanted to kill her.


    But as Emily scoured the ballroom, Ophelia was nowhere to be found.


    Watching Emily''s cold detachment, Nathan felt a wave of shock wash over him. Harry was an illegitimate child, and Emily


    Was too.


    III


    Staring at the wreckage of his family, Nathan couldn''t take it anymore. Trembling he pushed through the crowd of onlookers and fled the scene.


    Bad news traveled fast. In less than an hour, the inte was flooded with stories about the Hastings family, with the hashtags: "The Hastings and Lewis families call off engagement, Scandalous wedding video", and "Heather raised her husband''s mistress'' children. These trending headlines were everywhere, but the news about Hastings Group''s substandard housing was the most severe issue. This was a public concern


    Hundreds of residents from several buildings banded together, demanding authoritiesunch an investigation. The impart was massive, and the judicial authorities soon opened a formal inquiry.


    After everything had wrapped up, Ophelia met Keh at Sinir Group for lunch.


    "Got quite an appetite today?" Keh asked with a smile as he watched Ophelia across from him, nibbling away like a lite squirrel


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow. She was in a good mood, which exined her increased appetite. "Mm, I really envy your employees. They get to eat such good food at work."


    "Then eat more." Seeing how much Ophelia enjoyed the pork chop, Keh cut his portion into her te


    "Thanks" Ophelia didn''t stand on ceremony. After all, she''d been nning this day for a long time.


    With the Hastings family now riddled with problems, they wouldn''t be able to withstand the pressure from the investigation. Soon, they would be facing bankruptcy and liquidation, and when that time came, Ophelia could buy out Emily''s shares for a fraction of the price. "All those stories online-that was your doing?" Keh asked. He usually didn''t pay attention to online gossip, but he didn''t believe that the cascade of events wasn''t being orchestrated


    Ophelia tilted her head, her clear eyes gleaming as she looked at Keh as if waiting for praise.


    But Keh only chuckled, "Not ruthless enough"


    "What would make it ruthless?" Ophelia asked.


    The way you handled Ronald Noyes, for example, Keh said That kind of decisive action was what made Ophelia his woman. With him backing her, there was nothing to fear.


    "It''s not over yet. Just watch. Ophelia''s smile was as sly as a fox. She had already done a DNA test and confirmed she had no biological connection to the Hastings family. So, when it came to them, there would be no mercy.


    Soon, Hastings Group was gued by more than poor housing quality. Investigators uncovered massive amounts of falsifiedpany ounts. Early one morning, several police officers arrived at thepany


    Owen had been staying at the office for the past couple of days, sleepless and haggard, a far cry from his once confidentmanding presence.


    The officer stated. "Mr. Hastings, correct? Our investigation suggests you''re suspected of tax evasion. Pleasee with us for questioning


    "You..you must be mistaken." Owen shot up from his chair, but in his agitation, everything went ck, and he copsed to the floor. He was rushed to the hospital


    IIIContent (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Heather, who had spent the past few days crying at home, received a call from the hospital and rushed over.


    78%1


    The nurse said, "The patiem has suffered a sudden brain hemorrhage. He needs urgent surgery. Please prepare 70 thousand dors for the operation."


    "Seventy thousand dors?" To Heather, that was an enormous sun now. She didn''t even have seven thousand dors, let alone 70 thousand dors. Preparing thevish wedding to win over the Lewis family cost over 300 thousand dors. Aside from their real estate, there was no liquid cash left. Heather was anxious and angry. She wanted to harden her heart and leave Owen to his fate, but as his legal wife, she couldn''t ignore him. She had no choice but to make phone calls to gather the money for the surgery.


    However, no one was left in Heather''s family anymore, and selling off assets would take time. As Heather prepared to return home and sell the jewelry and essories she had bought over the years, she was shocked to find that court officials had already arrived at Hastings Vi. They were cing seals all over the property, marking it for confiscation.


    1

 Jilted Bride 119

    Heather had never witnessed such a scene before. "What are you doing? This is trespassing. It''s illegal."


    Heather rushed forward and reached out to tear down the seals, but Scott quickly stopped her. "Mom, tearing them down won''t help. They''re from the court, Dad and Harry used the house as coteral for a loan, and today''s the deadline" "Please don''t interfere with our work, one of the officers said, showing his badge. This is the court ruling and the enforcement notice. We hope you can cooperate."


    Heather was dumbfounded. She stared at the two notices handed to her, unable to make sense of them. For years, Owen had handled everything outside the house. She had always lived a pampered life, never facing anything like this. Harry was still in the police station, and Nathan''s phone couldn''t be reached.


    "Scott, what do we do now? Your father''s still in the hospital." Heather''s voice trembled with desperation.


    Scott, a high school student, barely knew what to do himself. The only thing he could think of was to try and reason with the officers. "Can we at least go inside and grab a few things?"


    The officer replied, "Sorry, you''re not allowed to take anything except some clothes and important documents. Anything worth over 600 dors cannot be removed.


    "Is there no justice anymore? We bought those things. Why can''t we take them?" Overwhelmed with emotion, Heather tore down more of the seals in anger.


    "If you continue to obstruct our work, we have the right to take you to the police station," the officer wamed firmly.


    "Mom, please stop. Let''s just pack a few clothes, and we''ll find a way to solve the problemster. Scott entered the house, which once was warm, but now seemed cold and empty. Seals were even pasted on the sofas and tables.


    Upstairs, officers were sealing each room. Scott kept his head down, trying to manage his emotions while keeping his frantic mother under control.


    Heather gazed at her jewelry and handbags, realizing she couldn''t even take a single bag, and as for her clothes, she could only bring the cheapest ones.


    After they packed up and headed downstairs, the maid, the nanny, and the driver were all waiting with their bags packed. "Mrs. Hastings, Mr. Scott, you still haven''t paid us our wages, one of them reminded.


    "How could you be so heartless? Look at the state we''re in. Where would we get the money to pay you now?" Heather snapped, ring at them. She thought, ''I have always treated them well, and now they have the nerve to ask for money at a time like this?" "That''s not fair. We''ve worked the whole year, and it''s almost the holidays. You can''t expect us to go home empty-handed One of them argued.


    "Exactly. A dead camel still carries weight. Our wages are just a few thousand dors each. Don''t tell us you can''te up with that," another added.


    I''ve always treated you well, like part of the family. And now, you push us like this when we''re in trouble?" Heather felt the weight of misfortune crash down on her. Now, even the servants dared to speak to her like this.


    Aaron sneered, "Part of the family? Don''t kid yourself. You don''t even treat your own daughter like family. You''ve nev really seen us as people."


    "Exactly. I don''t care what you say, but if you don''t pay us today, we''ll sue you, another added.


    §±§Ö§é§Ö§ä 1/3


    "Yeah, we''ll sue you," they all chimed in, refusing to back down. Their voices made Heather''s head throb.


    Scott said, "I''m sorry, everyone. Our family really doesn''t have the money. I myself do have a little, but it''s nowhere near enough for a full month''s wages. The most I can give is one thousand dors each. That''s all I''ve got left. I promise I''ll repay the restter" The three exchanged nces before Aaron finally said, "Let''s not make things harder for Mr. Scott. One thousand dors is" He thought. ''Better than nothing."


    "You have money?" Heather quickly grabbed Scott''s phone. "Why didn''t you say so earlier? Why give it to them?"


    That was all Scott had left for his school expenses. Ignoring his mother''s protests, he transferred the money to the three.


    After the three left, Scott gently supported Heather as they took onest look at the vi before walking away.


    Outside, the world was a frozen wastnd, but for Heather and Scott, there was no ce they could call home. Harry remained in detention. Oweny in the hospital, Hastings Group had no one to steer it, and they were drowning in debt. By the next day, Hastings Group dered bankruptcy and went into liquidation. Owen couldn''t afford surgery, not even a room to stay in. With the hospital beds in short supply, they moved him into a hallway.


    Nathan, meanwhile, had been holed up in a private club, drowning himself in alcohol night after night.


    "Sir, your total billes to 86 thousand dors. We''ve rounded it down for you, so it''s an even 80 thousand dors. Here''s the bill, the waiter said politely.


    Drunk and disheveled, Nathan fumbled in his pocket, pulled out his wallet, and tossed a card onto the marble table.


    The waiter took it with a bow and went to the counter to process the payment. "I''m sorry, sir, but your ount seems frozen.


    "Frozen?" Nathan hupped and threw another card at him.


    This back-and-forth went on three or four times, and by now, the waiter was getting frustrated. "Do you even have any money? Not one of these four or five cards works."


    "Are you kidding me? Trying to scam me, huh? I''m Nathan from the Hastings family." Nathan slurred, emptying his wallet onto the table, cards scattering everywhere. "Go swipe them all."


    "The Hastings family? Do you mean that bankrupt Hastings family? Your family is already drowning in debt with the house. repossessed, and you are still dreaming here." The waiter couldn''t help but sneer.


    "Shut up!" Nathan staggered, barely able to stand but still trying to put up a fight.


    Sensing trouble, the waiter quickly went to fetch the manager.


    Just then, a few young men walked past the door, ncing into the room.


    "Mr. Huxley, doesn''t that guy look familiar?" one asked.


    Leading the group, the man in the dark red suit tilted his head nonchntly and nced inside. "Well, well, look who it is Isn''t that Mr. Nathan of the Hastings family?"


    Marcus Huxley pushed open the door to the VIP room, scanning the mess of bottles littering the table. With a smirk, he said, "Still got money for drinks? Funny, I heard Hastings Vi has been seized. You sure you can cover this tab?" Marcus had always looked down on Nathan the most among the rich kids in their circle. The Hastings Tamily''s wealth was nothing extraordinary, yet Nathan strutted around like he was special


    78%


    "Mr. Huxley, who did you say he is? Mr. Nathan of the Hastings family? Never heard of him, one of the rich kids behind Marcus chimed in. ying along.


    "You''ve never heard of the Hastings family? The whole n''s a disaster. His older brother and sister-both bastards from his dad''s affairs. What a lively bunch, huh? The family''s overflowing with people," Marcus sneered, drawingughter from his entourage.


    The entire Hastings family had be a running joke in Denex.


    Hearing their jabs, Nathan mmed a bottle onto the table, ss shattering. "What the hell did you just say? What business. is the Hastings family''s problem to you? Get out. All of you, get the hell out!"Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    At this moment, the manager, who had been called by the waiter, arrived. "Sir, we''ll need you to settle your bill. If you pay, we''ll have to involve the police."


    can''t


    Nathan''s shoulders slumped, and he looked utterly defeated. His wallet held nothing but frozen cards. He didn''t have cash.


    Marcus took a step forward, his voice dripping with mockery. "Mr. Hastings, why don''t you beg me? Say a few nice words, and maybe I''ll help you pay the bill. If not, well, it looks like you''ll be joining your brother in detention."

 Jilted Bride 120

    Marcus stood in front of Nathan, hands casually tucked into his pockets.


    Nathan clenched his fists tightly, having never been humiliated like this in his entire life. In a burst of rage, he grabbed Marcus by the cor, but before he could swing his fist, the club''s bodyguards rushed in and restrained him "No money and you still dare show up here! Beat him. Then throw him to the cops," the manager barked. At hismand, the bodyguards sprang into action, pinning Nathan to the ground and mercilessly punching and kicking him. Marcus straightened his tie, spat at Nathan, who was lying on the floor, and sneered, "You think you can take me on? You can''t even afford the hospital bill, and I''ll make sure you rot in jail for years"


    "Ugh. Each punchnded with a thud, and Nathan could only huddle in defense, powerless to fight back


    "Yes, yes. I''m sorry, Mr. Huxley. Please don''t stoop to his level. It''s beneath you. Tonight''s expenses are on me. The manager hurriedly apologized to Marcus, bowing obsequiously. He then rushed to escort him out of the VIP room. By early morning, a bruised and battered Nathan was left outside the police station. From there, he called Heather.


    "Scoil, whardo we do now? Nathan''s been taken to the police. They''re saying he didn''t pay his bill, and the amount is huge. We''re on the hook for the money Heather clutched the phone, panicked and at a loss. Heather and Scott were holed up in a chain hotel, far from luxury.


    Scott, meanwhile, was desperately trying to borrow money from his friends to cover Owen''s surgery costs, but now this new disaster had struck.


    Heather said. "Maybe we should go ask Ophelia for help."


    Scott replied, "Ophelia? Mom, how can you even say that? You''re the one who said she''s not part of the Hastings family anymore. And now, when we''re in trouble, you suddenly remember she''s your daughter?" Guilt flickered in Heather''s eyes. "So what? I gave birth to her. She owes me. If it weren''t for us pulling her out of that slum. she wouldn''t be where she is today. If you won''t go, I will."


    Scott said, Just leave her alone, okay? You never treated her well when she was with us, and now you have no shame to ask her for help?"


    Heather pped Scott on the face. "I gave birth to you, too, so you owe me. How dare you call me shameless? How did I end up with such an ungrateful son?" Then, she stormed out of the room.


    Scott stood frozen, five red finger marks on his cheek. After a moment, he turned and hesitated before finally dialing Ophelia''s number.


    At Rosewood Manor, Ophelia was in the n


    middle of breakfast when she saw Scott''s call sh on her phone screen. She was unsure whether to pick up.


    "Answer it if you want, Keh teased, noticing Ophelia''s conflicted look. He reached for a wet napkin, gently wiping her hands, which were busy peeling a boiled egg, before taking the half-peeled egg from her and finishing the task for her. Ophelia answered the call but didn''t speak


    On the other end, Scott froze briefly before awkwardly saying. "Ophelia, I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have called. I just wanted to give you a heads-up. Mom left a little while ago. She said she''sing to you. I don''t want her to cause you any trouble. "There''s been so much going on at home these past few days. Please don''t get upset if Mom says anything harsh to you." 12:50 Wed, Nov 13


    78%


    Scott''s youthful and unsure yoice softened Ophelia''s heart for a moment. "Thank you for the warning. Is there anything


    "No...nothing else," Scott replied.


    After hanging up, Ophelia found a freshly peeled egg ced on her te.


    Keh wiped his hands casually. Ophelia''s gaze lingered on his hands, tracing the elegant lines of his fingers. She thought, Now he''s at the helm of the conglomerate, and he even has the me to eat breakfast with me!


    Just a few days ago, Ophelia mentioned a craving for boiled eggs Every morning since then, they''d appeared on the table without fail.


    "The Carnegie family''s acknowledgment party is set for tomorrow night. Are you nning to go?" Ophelia asked, nibbling


    .on


    the egg


    Keh nced at Ophelia out of the corner of his eye. "Do you want me to go?"


    Ophelia replied. "It''s up to you, but I bet Mr. Theo would be thrilled if you did."Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    "Hmph, that old man. He''s already gotten what he wanted, and now he expects more," Keh said.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow. She thought, Wasn''t Keh the one who let Theo do what he wanted in the first ce Back then. I had only agreed because I feared causing Keh trouble, but who knew Keh would deal with the Sinir family so swiftly After breakfast, Keh left for the consortium. As soon as he was gone, Heather showed up.


    "Mrs. Sinir, there''s a woman outside iming to be your mother. How would you like to handle this?" the maid asked.


    Let her in, Ophelia said.


    "Yes, ma''am," the maid replied.


    It was Heather''s first time entering Rosewood Manor. It appeared to be a simple vi from the outside, but once inside, she realized the decor was understated yet undeniably luxurious. Heather''s demeanor was entirely different now-gone were the days of her regal elegance. She looked disheveled like she hadn''t washed her hair in days.


    The moment Heather saw Ophelia, she couldn''t hold back her tears. "Elia, you''ve probably heard about the mess with the Hastings family by now, haven''t you? Your heartless father. It turns out Harry and Emily are both his illegitimate children from some affair. I never imagined he''d deceive me for so many years."


    At this point, Heather lowered her head and sobbed quietly as if she were so broken, "Now, I only have you. Thank goodness you married into Rosewood Manor, or you''d be caught up in this mess. Your father''s lying in the hospital, and the surgery costs around 200 thousand dors. No matter what kind of man he is, he''s still your father. So, what do you think...


    Ophelia kept a soft, distant smile. Harry, being Owen''s illegitimate child, was something she hadn''t expected. No wonder Harry and Nathan, supposedly twins, looked nothing alike.


    Ophelia said, "Mrs. Hastings, I can cover the money, but I have one question for you. You need to answer me truthfully."


    "You go ahead and ask. Heather quickly dried her tears the moment she heard the mention of money.


    Ophelia asked, "Am I really your daughter?"


    Heather''s gaze faltered at Ophelia''s words, avoiding her eyes. "Of course you are. I carried you for ten months. You''re my daughter."


    Ophelia sneered inwardly, Hold-faced lies. She pushed a paternity test result to Heather.


    Heather took a look at the paper. The conclusion was unmistakable: [No biological rtion] Her heart skipped a beat. She couldn''t afford to admit the truth, not when she still needed Ophelia.


    Heather was about to deny it when Ophelia''s calm voice cut through. "If you tell me the truth. I''ll give you the money. But if you continue lying. I''m afraid you''ll have to go without."


    Heather tightened her grip on the cloth bag she held at Ophelia''s words, her thoughts racing. Then, she said, "Elia, even if you''re not my biological daughter, think about it. We rescued you from that slum and arranged your marriage into Rosewood Manor. We weren''t unfair to you, were we? In the six months you were with us, we never mistreated you, right?"


    ''Never mistreated Ophelia sneered inwardly. Those words rangeerily familiar.


    Ophelia had already suspected this truth long ago, but her obsession in her previous life made her want to hear Heather admit it aloud. The Hastings family had only taken her in for their own benefit.


    Ophelia stood and calmly walked upstairs. When she returned, she held a brown paper envelope filled with cash.


    The moment Heather saw the money, she straightened her posture.


    Ophelia said. "I''m grateful to the Hastings family for arranging this marriage for me. Here''s 70 thousand dors as-"


    "Seventy thousand dors? That''s not nearly enough, Heather eximed.


    Heather''s greed was no surprise to Ophelia. Weighing the envelope in her hand, Ophelia remarked, "Mrs. Hastings, have your ever considered that, since Harry is Owen and Sophia''s illegitimate child, would Owen be unfair to Sophia over the years? Perhaps, somewhere you''re unaware of, Sophia is living a carefree life with the daughter you have raised."

 Jilted Bride 121

    Seeing the change in Heather''s expression, Ophelia remained emotionless. "And what about you


    around, begging people to save a heartless man. Is it worth it?"


    Ophelia''s words hit Heather, where it hurt the most.


    You''re still running


    Ophelia added. "I heard Owen had a brain hemorrhage, right? Even if he survives, he could be paralyzed, and you''d be stuck taking care of him. Are you willing to drag yourself down with a man like that? You don''t believe Owen will rise from the ashes, do you?" Opheliaughed as she ced the thick envelope in front of Heather.


    "But.. but Nathan, he''s still in the police station. We owe over 50 thousand dors inpensation, Heather said. She thought, I can leave my husband to fend for himself, but what about my son?


    Ophelia said, "Oh, so you want to use this money to bail him out so he can cause more trouble for you? Fine by me. After all, you''ve spent your whole life living for others. It''s your money. Use it as you like. After today, we''re strangers."


    "Don''t say that. Elia. We''re still mother and daughter. You have to help me think of something. Heather sat there, surprisingly not reaching for the money right away. Instead, she looked at Ophelia with pleading eyes.


    Ever since everything fell apart, Heather had lost all direction. She used to rely on Owen for everything, but after what he did to her, she couldn''t just let it go.


    Ophelia said. "You''re giving me too much credit. How exactly am I supposed to help? You''re Owen''s legal wife. Everything he bought for that mistress was with your joint assets. You have every right to take it all back. But I''m just an outsider. I can''t do that for you Ophelia smiled slightly. Her face, already pure and harmless, seemed even more gentle, without a trace of malice. She turned and headed upstairs, not immediately telling Lisa to see Heather out but giving Heather time to think.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    Lisa poured Heather a ss of water and sighed regretfully, "If it were me, not only would I refuse to save such a man, but I''d also take back everything he ever gave that mistress. You can''t just raise someone else''s kids for all these years for nothing. right? "Once you get the house and the car back, you should enjoy the rest of your life. Wouldn''t that be so much better? At the end of the day, you''ve got to look out for yourself."


    Heather''s eyes lit up at Lisa''s words as she thought about her life over the past few days and the seized Hastings Vi. ''There''s no way I''ll save Owen. Why should I save him just so he can reunite with that tramp Sophia and the children I raised for them! Dream on! Why should I suffer just to make life easier for Sophia?


    Heather quickly grabbed the envelope off the table, nced at the amount, and stuffed it all into her bag. With this money, she could sue Sophia and reim the marital assets that were rightfully hers and Owen''s.


    A few minutester, Ophelia saw Heather leaving Rosewood Maper through the second-floor floor-to-ceiling window. She sent Caleb a message: [Caleb, have someone follow her. Whatever she does, lend her a hand


    ''Lend her a hand? Caleb mulled over those four words before replying: [Understood.]


    Sophia was in her vi, located in a quiet, upscale viplex when she received a call from the hospital. "Who? I''m not his wife. Why are you calling me? Sorry, I have no obligation here. Goodbye" She hung up without hesitation.


    With Hastings Group gone, Sophia had to n her next move. She contacted herwyer to inquire about Harry''s case.


    ti


    Thewyer said, "Ms. Carter, this case is deeply entangled, and Harry is the primary liable party. All the property owners are demanding refunds, which amount to a massive sum. Even if Hastings Group were liquidated, it wouldn''t be enough to cover the costs. "Given the nature of this situation, it''s now considered criminal fraud, with false transactions and breach of contract. You should prepare yourself for the possibility of Harry''s life imprisonment."


    Sophia asked. "Is there no other way to resolve this?"


    Thewyer replied. "There is, but you''d need to shift all the me onto someone else, for instance, the chairman. But we''d need evidence to support that"


    Sophia understood thewyer''s suggestion-everything had to be pinned on Owen. After all, a half-dead man wouldn''t be able to say much to the police. "Proceed then"


    No sooner had Sophia hung up than Emily stormed down from upstairs. She marched up to Sophia. "Did you do what I asked? I want revenge. I want to kill Ophelia."


    Sophia pped Emily in the face. "Is this how Heather raised you? Yelling at your elders like that? Where are your manners?"


    Emily was stunned by the p, covering her face as she turned her head in disbelief toward Sophia. "How had she changed so much?" she wondered.


    Sophia, seated on the couch, lit a slim cigarette and exhaled a cloud of smoke. "You''d better behave and stay away from Ophelia. After tomorrow night, she''ll be the heiress of the Carnegie family. If you cause any more trouble, don''t expect me to help you." Emily''s chest heaved with a mix of anger and hurt. Covering her face, she rushed out of the room.


    Sophia watched Emily run away and didn''t bother stopping Emily. Her priority was saving her only son. As for Emily, she could fend for herself. Crushing the cigarette bult into the ashtray, Sophia looked up as a muscr young man in his Twenties walked in. "Ms. Carter, it''s been days since youst called me"


    Sophia''s eyes flickered with a seductive glint as she beckoned hith with a finger curl.


    The man strode over, scooped Sophia up effortlessly from the couch, and carried her into the bedroom.


    The next day, at Paraler Shopping Center, Bethany linked arms with Ophelia as they walked into a luxury haute couture store. Bethany had ordered a gown for Ophelia a while back, and they were here to pick it up.


    The store assistant said, "Mrs. Carnegie, you''ve arrived. Please, have a seat, and I''ll bring out the dresses right away."


    Within moments, several gowns of various styles wereid out before Ophelia.


    Bethany said, "I took a liking to a few extra designs the other day and figured they''d look stunning on you. They weren''t that expensive, so I had them custom-made in your size. Try them on and choose whichever you want to wear tonight."


    Ophelia was speechless. When she''d measured for the gown, she had no idea what dress suited for the acknowledgment party, so she left it all to Bethany. She hadn''t expected Bethany to order so many. Ophelia thought, "These gowns are each worth at least a hundred thousand dors, and Bethany calls that "not expensive"?"


    Now, Ophelia was genuinely curious just how wealthy the Carnegie family was. Thirty million dors as pocket money and seven or eight custom-made gowns in one go-this was luxury on another level.


    Bethany chuckled, "You don''t know this, but I''ve always wanted a daughter. Unfortunately, I ended up with two unruly boys. so I never got to pick out dresses for a daughter. Now that I finally have the chance, I''m indulging myself


    121


    ''Uh...there is really no arguing


    "that Ophelia thought.


    With Bethany''s eager eyes watching her, Ophelia tried on each of the gowns one by one.


    1

 Jilted Bride 122

    0


    Chapter


    122


    As night fell and the city lights flickered on, a fleet of luxury cars lined the entrance of the Evend Hotel.


    Everyone in Denex knew that tonight was the Carnegie family''s acknowledgment party.


    The Carnegie family had reserved the entire Evend Hotel for the event, inviting countless political and business elites. It was a far grander asion than the charity auctions usually held here.


    Outside the security perimeter, reporters stood on their toes, eager for any scoop. shbulbs went off rapidly as each VIP. usually only seen on the news, entered.


    One of the reporters was surprised, "Wow, look over there. Isn''t that Michael Huxley, the head of the Huxley family, one of the three prominent families in Denex? I heard Mr. Huxley''s been unwell these past few years and rarely attends such events. Who would''ve thought he''d show up!"


    Another said, "And there''s Henry Reyes, the head of the Reyes family. All three of Denex''s great families have gathered. tonight"


    One added, "If there is a Sinir were to attend, that would really make headlines."


    Someone let out a dryugh, clearly amused. The person who said that obviously didn''t understand the status of the Sinir family in Heloria. They operated on apletely different level,


    A family like the Sinir''s could determine the fate of these so-called powerful families with the snap of a finger. No matter how influential the Carnegie family might be, inviting a Sinir was out of the question.


    A few more political heavyweights arrived, causing the chatter to die down as cameras were raised to capture every


    moment.


    The Carnegie family''s acknowledgment party dominated all the entertainment headlines tonight,


    At 8 PM sharp, the grandest ballroom in the Evend Hotel was blready filled with guests mingling in small groups, toasting with sses in hand. Every man had either a family member by his side or a stunningpanion. Waiters wove through the crowd, bncing trays in hand.


    After a melodious symphony from the live band came to a close the ballroom lights converged on the staircase on the second floor.


    Conversations halted as everyone turned their attention toward the stairs.


    A young woman in a vintage ck retro evening gown descended gracefully, her arm linked with Theo, who wore a sleek gray modern-style suit.


    The gown''s hem swept the floor, and the bodice and skirt were allorned with mesh and shimmering silver fragments. Thin straps ran from her shoulders to her back, revealing her striking shoulder des. On her head sat an antique ck crown worth millions of dors. She was like the most elegant and dazzling ck swan gliding across a sereneke.


    At this moment, every guest in the ballroom was utterly captivated-not just by her beauty but by the vibe she exuded, something unattainable, beyond reach.


    Theo noticed all the gazes and puffed out his chest with pride. His graying hair, slicked back with precision, made him appear more radiant than ever. He resisted the urge to show off or he''d be parading his granddaughter in front of Michael to gloat. ''Forget it. Better not provoke Michael tonight, Theo thought.


    Ophelia had no idea what was running through Theo''s mind. All she sensed was a sharp, hostile gaze directed at her.


    78%


    "Wow, Rex, is this our sister? Why didn''t you tell me she''s this stunning?" Howard Carnegie, the youngest son in the Carnegie family, was seeing Ophelia for the first time, his eyes practically sparkling


    Rex shot a sidelong nce at Howard, his expression darkening. He thought, ''How is he calling her "sister" so naturally? He suddenly felt like he was no longer Ophelia''s only little brother.


    The eldest, Jackson Carnegie, was quite pleased with this new sister. Finally, there was someone soft and sweet to adore him. He nced at his two younger brothers, who were behaving like excitable huskies, unable to hide the disdain in his eyes, "First of all, I want to thank everyone for attending the Carnegie family''s acknowledgment party. This youngdy beside me is my granddaughter, Opheha," Theo announced proudly.


    The room erupted in apuse.


    The Carnegie family stood proudly at the front, each smiling warmly. They had chosen to hold the event on this particr night, just before the holidays, because the entire family had gathered. Theo''s eldest daughter, ra, second son, Fiy, and his two grandsons, Jackson and Howard, who had recently returned from studying abroad, were all


    present,


    "I hereby officially dere that Ophelia is now part of the Carnegie family lineage. She will receive five percent of Carnegie Group shares and ten percent of the family''s assets and enjoy the same inheritance rights as my two grandsons." Theo''s voice rang out clearly, resonating throughout the grand hall.


    All eyes turned to the younger generation of the Carnegie family, but Jackson and Howard led the apuse without hesitation, showing no sign of objection.


    The ballroom once again filled with apuse.


    Fiy then brought out the prepared agreement, notarizing it to everyone.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    It was only then that the reality began to sink in for Ophelia. Judging by the audience''s reactions, she could tell how incredible this event was.


    In wealthy families, acknowledgment parties like this were never this serious. Most new members could barely attend family gatherings, let alone enjoy such privileges. This was the kind of thing others could only dream of Down in the crowd, Miles watched the graceful figure on stage, filled with deep regret. The girl who had once chased after him was gone.


    After Theo''s announcement, the party officially began.


    ra introduced Ophelia to members of the Reyes family, and then Bethany brought her over to greet the Huxley family.


    It was then that Ophelia realized the intricate rtionships between the three great families. These century-old families, with their unshakable foundations, maintained their power through strategic marriages between their children. It seemed Ophelia had misunderstood the Carnegie family before-much of what she had learned about them was inurate.


    "Hey. Ophelia. I''m your little brother, Howard." Howard was the first to greet Ophelia


    If Rex sometimes acted like a tail-wagging husky, the boy in front of Ophelia was, without a doubt, a head-tilting Samoyed. With his short hair and bright, clear eyes, he radiated warmth and friendliness, much like Bethany. "Hello" Ophelia nodded at Howard, shing a sweet smile.


    Rex felt like crying, wondering, ''Why has she never smiled at me like that?''


    78%


    1


    "Hello, Elia. I''m your big brother, Jackson." Jackson said, with sleek hair and sharp, intelligent eyes. He looked almost exactly like Fiy.


    Ophelia thought, ''He doesn''t seem as slow-witted as Mr. Theo suggested. She said, "Nice to meet you, Jackson."


    Jackson thought, ''Getting addressed by a sister feels wonderful. He reached out to shake Ophelia''s hand, and Ophelia politely took it, her smile as radiant as ever.


    Rex felt like crying even more, thinking. I''ve never even had the chance to shake her hand. How is this so different from what I imagined? I was the first one to know her


    Desperate to make his presence known, Rex rushed forward. "Ophelia, guess what. I''ve been attending all those acting sses you told me to take on time. Ask my agent Jason if you don''t believe me."


    Hmm, Ophelia replied.


    Rex was shocked, thinking. That''s it? Just one word?'' He cleared his throat and said, "Ophelia, you have no idea. My acting has reached a whole new level now. I''ve totally mastered it. When we start filming after the holidays, I''ll be ready." "You better be," Ophelia said, turning her head to give Rex a sharp look..


    Rex felt a chill run down his spine. He thought, ''Why is this so different from what I''d imagined? Shouldn''t she be praising me? What is with that look?

 Jilted Bride 123

    COMMENT


    Rex took a deep breath, and his charming eyes immediately drooped. He looked so pitiful, like a little animal that had been abandoned


    Whenever Ophelia saw Rex like this, she felt she shouldn''t be so hard on him. "I believe if you put your heart into it, you''ll pick things up quickly," she said, offering praise to keep his spirits up.


    "Hmm?" Rex perked up right away, standing beside Ophelia as af showing off to the others, "See? Im the favored one."


    Everyone in the room was curious about Ophelia. Anyone who had caught the eye of the Carnegie family had to be special.. and the guests were all eager to cozy up to her.


    "Elia, do you remember me? I''m Max''s mother. We''ve met before. I liked you the moment I saw you. I just knew you were blessed with good fortune" Aubrey gushed, grabbing Ophelia''s hand with a wide smile.


    Ophelia pulled her hand back, her lightly made-up face showing only a polite and distant smile. She never forgot the scene when Aubrey and Heather humiliated her when she was first brought to the Hastings family. Ophelia said, "How could I forget, Mrs. Lewis? The first time you met me, you told me not to cling to your son and said I was a jinx. You even made it clear that as long as you were alive, you''d never let your son be with me." "W-what? Did I say that? You must be mistaken, Aubrey stammered, her stile twitching awkwardly.


    "Oh, well, it''s all in the past now," Ophelia said casually.


    Aubrey sighed in relief at Ophelia''s words, thinking she could ease back into the conversation. But then Ophelia spoke again, her voice light yet pointed. "Well, Max''s married now, isn''t he? I''m sure you''re very pleased with his wife."


    Though Ophelia''s words seemed innocent, anyone noticing knew it was a jab at the Lewis family''s recent scandalous wedding.


    With that, Ophelia turned and walked away, not bothering to nce back at Aubrey''s face, which had gone through several shades of embarrassment.


    Ophelia found a seat and settled down.


    During this time, many young socialites and heirs were practically forced by their families to approach Ophelia and greet her. The girls looked on with envy, while the boys couldn''t take their eyes off her.


    Howard and Rex quickly swooped in like knights, taking seats beside Ophelia. They stared down the young men like guards watching over suspects, which made Ophelia chuckle helplessly


    Just then, Marcus, in a burgundy suit, approached with a wine ss in hand, squinting as he sized up Ophelia. "Hello, Ophelia. I''m your cousin Marcus." He raised his ss and smiled lecherously as his eyes wandered down from her innocent face to the area below her corbone.


    "What the hell, Marcus? Where the hell are you looking? Are you looking to get yourself killed?" Rex shot up from his seat, grabbing Marcus by the cor.


    Jackson and Howard nked Ophelia on either side, blocking her from view.


    "Marcus, watch yourself," Jackson warned, his voice cold. "She''s part of the Carnegie family now."


    "She''s still my cousin, Marcus sneered, shoving Rex away. "Whats wrong with saying hello? She''s here topete for your family fortune, and you''re all treating her like some fragile flower. You''re ridiculous."


    "You''re the one trying to stir up trouble." Howard, younger than Rex by a year but standing at a towering six-foot-one,R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    stepped forward, making Marcus look puny byparison. His presence in front of Ophelia exuded security.


    Marcus scoffed, "You fools have no idea, do you? That girl crawled out of the slums in the West End. Who knows what tricks she pulled to get here? I''m just trying to warn you all. Don''t be left with nothing when she''s through with you" Marcus had heard rumors from Nathan and his group. Ophelia was just some random girl the Hastings family casually picked. He said. "She bankrupted the Hastings family, and now she''s here to pull the same con


    "You shut your mouth! Say one more word, and I''ll deck you." Rex shoved Marcus, unable to bear the insults. He thought, No way my delicate angel came from a ce like that:


    Marcus stumbled back a few steps, crashing into a waitress behind him.


    Themotion quickly caught everyone''s attention in the ballroom. While no one dared to openlyment, given how much the Carnegie family valued Ophelia, their nces were filled with curiosity and spection. How could the Carnegie family ept someone from the slums Ophelia looked so polished and elegant-no one would ve guessed.


    Members of both the Carnegie and Huxley families began to gather around.


    "Marcus, stop spouting nonsense. Michael''s deep voice rang out as he was wheeled over.


    "Marcus, apologize to Ophelia," Bethanymanded.


    Marcus pressed his lips, unwilling to say a word.


    Ophelia, who had remained silent until now, set down her wine ss and slowly stood. She walked forward with calmposure. "He''s not wrong. I am from the slurns. Ophelia''s words sent a wave of shock through the room.


    To these people, the slums were synonymous with filth, crime, and chaos. A ce that bred degenerates-thugs delinquents, and the kind of people one must stay far away from


    Bethany was stunned for a few seconds. She had done her research on Ophelia before, and nowhere had it indicated Ophelia came from the slums.


    Rex was equally shocked, his gaze fixed on Ophelia. He thought "How could this be true?


    Ophelia wasn''t surprised by their reactions. This kind of prejudice was deeply ingrained. It wasn''t just the nobility. Ordinary people reacted strongly to the mere mention of the word "slums


    The aristocrats were moreposed, though likely out of respect for the Carnegie family, suppressing their true feelings.


    Ophelia began, "I was an abandoned child. From as far back as I can remember, I''ve lived in the slums. There''s nothing to hide about that. The conditions there are bad, and people do whatever it takes to survive, including some-savory things."


    Ophelia added, "But that''s only a few. Most of us get by collecting trash and doing odd job. We don''t steal or rob. We bleed the same as you, share the same skin, and live under the same sky in the same country. We''re all human, and we''ve only got one life. So why should we be treated unfairly?


    "Don''t forget, a hundred years ago, the slums were the heart of this city. How many of your ancestors didn''te from the


    slums


    Ophelia''s words left the room in silence. No one could deny the truth in what she said


    Just as everyone was processing Ophelia''s speech, a sudden voice broke the quiet. "Easy for you to say now, but what about all the dirty things you''ve done that no one knows about?"


    Heads turned, searching for the source of the voice.


    Ophelia thought. The voice sounds familiar. Intrigued, she nced over at Emily, who was dressed as a waitress.


    Emily removed her ck-rimmed sses and beret, letting her long hair fall loose. Her eyes were filled with hatred and. jealousy as she locked her gaze on Ophelia.


    Some in the crowd recognized Emily''s face but couldn''t quite ce it. Their curiosity only grew-what exactly did she mean by "dirty things? The certainty in her tone sparked doubt in everyone''s mind.

 Jilted Bride 124

    "Who is this woman spouting nonsense here? Get her out of here at once. Bethany was the first to give orders. She thought, "No matter what happens, Elia is my daughter now, and I won''t allow anyone to bully her or let her go through the hardships she once endured" "How did she even sneak in like this? Does no one manage security here? Fiy''s face darkened as he nced at the hotel


    manager


    The whole family stood before Ophelia, and this unexpected protection took her aback. Having always been the one to solve problems on her own and shield others, it was the first time someone had done the same for her. A small wave of emotion surred inside her The hotel manager immediately called for security, and two guards grabbed one of Emily''s arms.


    "Let her go. Let her say what dirty thing I''ve supposedly done so everyone can stop guessing and satisfy their curiosity." Ophelia said with a calm smile that never left her face.


    Theo stood by Ophelia''s side, his eyes full of admiration for her He nodded slightly, impressed by how cleverly she handled


    the situation.


    Theo said, "It seems like my granddaughter has quite a few people jealous of her today. Fine, let''s clear up this misunderstanding. After today, if anyone dares say a bad word about her. I''ll be the first to deal with them."


    Theo''s authoritative presence made it clear to everyone that this was pure favoritism. No matter what Emily said, the Carnegie family would back Ophelia up. No one dared to utter a word in response.


    The guards released Emily but stayed close, keeping a watchful eye on her every move.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Ophelia, do you dare admit that you''re already inarried? Emily taunted


    "I do," Ophelia replied with a faint, amused smile.


    As soon as that word left Ophelia, many families with sons hoping to marry into the Carnegie family were disappointed.


    "Do you dare admit who you''re married to?" Emily asked, her vore dripping with malice.


    When Ophelia remained silent, Emily sneered, "Did everyone hear that? She admits she''s married but won''t dare say it''s to that crippled old man from Rosewood Manor."


    They had heard bits and pieces about Rosewood Manor-a shy, newly wealthy family that wasn''t quite on their level. Because of this, they didn''t pay much attention.


    "You don''t believe me? I''ve got photos." Emily waved the pictures, raising them high to ensure the crowd could get a good look.


    Ophelia thought, "Those photos still exist? Emily tried spreading rumors with the same photos on set before, only to be humiliated. And now she''s still clinging to it. Clearly, she has no new tricks up her sleeve Ophelia felt a slight pang of disappointment Emily shouted, "Ophelia, stop pretending. Aren''t you the one spending that old man''s money while being Keh''s mistress? Where''s all that honesty you just had? Go on, admit it if you dare."


    Just then, Liam stepped out from the crowd in a ck tailcoat, his hair neatlybed.


    Emily nced at Liam and suddenly froze. She thought, ''Isn''t this the twisted old man Ophelia had supposedly married? Isn''t he supposed to be crippled? Why isn''t he in a wheelchair today?"


    12:50


    D §±


    After Emily''s initial shoek, a gleam of triumph shed in her eyes. "Everyone. This is the old man Ophelia married. What do you have to say for yourself now, Ophelia? Your husband''s here to drag you away


    As Emily noticed the odd looks the crowd was giving Ophelia. Emily knew she had seeded. She wanted to ruin Ophelia''s reputation and it didn''t matter if Ophelia managed to mingle with high society. Emily could still expose Ophelia''s disgraceful secret for all to see. "Ma''am, do you need me to handle this?" Liam approached Ophelia, bowing respectfully.


    "Ma''am?" Emily was only surprised for a second before sneering "What a joke. You two must be in on this together. Old man, you''ve lost your mind helping her put on this act. Mr. Theo, you need to think twice. They''re clearly conspiring to swindle the Carnegie family''s fortune."


    Emily''s words were met with silence.


    Emily basked in her cleverness, but the next moment, she noticed everyone''s gaze was fixed on something behind her. Slowly, she turned her head, and midway through, she saw a tall ck figure striding past her.


    The man, dressed in a long ck coat, was towering and imposing, his presence alone enough to dominate the room. He walked straight towards Ophelia


    Emily froze, stunned that Keh had actually shown up. The sight of him instantly brought back the terror she''d felt when he''d once held a gun to her head, making her shudder uncontrobly.


    Everyone else in the room was just as shocked. "Is is that Keh Sinir?" they whispered.


    The ammosphere in the ballroom was thick with tension. No one could believe that the head of Sinir Group would show up at the Carnegie family''s acknowledgment party Could Emily''s usation be true? Was Ophelia really Keh''s mistress?


    Emily quickly gathered her wits and nced at the older man she snorted inwardly. Two men fighting over her. This is going to be a disaster for Ophelia. It''s exactly what I wanted''


    Keh frowned slightly as he extended his hand. One of his attendants immediately handed him a white, tailored zer He draped the jacket over Ophelia''s bare shoulders, covering her delicate shoulder des.


    Ophelia tugged at the jacket on her shoulders and looked up. The smile on her lips deepened, and her clear, doe-like eyes sparkled as she gazed at Keh, making her beauty otherworldly


    Keh thought, Her smile is contagious. He had been frowning, but now he slowly rxed. He smiled slightly, and the coldness in his gaze softened, starkly contrasting the intimidating vibe he had radiated just moments ago. "Mrs. Sinir, aren''t you being a bit too modest? Does anyone really think I need to cover the Carnegie family''s little


    husband?" fortune?" Keh nced at the crowd, then turned back to Ophelia "Tell them, who''s your


    Keh stood beside Ophelia, exuding the air of someone who would back her no matter what.


    Ophelia raised her brows yfully, smiling like a sly little fox, hep gaze steady as she took Keh''s hand. "My husband is... Keh Sinir."


    Keh''s smile deepened, and he lifted his chin slightly, radiating pride. Under the stunned gazes of everyone in the room, he wrapped his arm around Ophelia''s slim waist and kissed her lips as if to stake his im for all to see. Fiy nced at his wife, then at his father and ra. Their wide eyes reflected the same disbelief. Had the Carnegie family just struck gold?


    When the kiss ended. Ophelia''s cheeks turned red like a lobster. She thought. This is beyond embarrassing-right in front of all these people. Stay calm. Stay calm. No one will think so as long as I don''t show embarrassment. Right? Right 12:51


    "Mr. Sinir, what should we do with her?" Liam asked at just the ri

 Jilted Bride 125

    Eleanor sighed, "Okay, I won''t let go of you."


    Just as she was calming Cami in her arms, she heard Gregory''s loud voice from the front. "Eleanor,e here and stay by my side. I''ll protect you!"


    Upon hearing Gregory''s piercing voice, Eleanor thought, ''Is he really trying to protect me? She shouted back, "No need! I''m not scared. You don''t need to protect me." Gregory firmly refused, saying, "No way! I''m a man, and once I say something, I can''t take it back. Hurry up ande over here!


    Eleanor frowned. "But I... She wanted to move forward, but the entrance was narrow, and with Cami in her arms, she couldn''t see well. Getting through was quite difficult.


    Before Eleanor could finish her sentence, she saw Gregory jump up, his pink hair bouncing. "Eleanor,e over! Hurry! You have to let me protect you. Come on,e on,e on!" Eleanor thought, "What a handful."


    "Alright then, Eleanor reluctantly agreed. She looked at Cami, who was starting to tremble in her arms and spoke gently. "Cami, are you going to stay here, or will you follow me?" Cami wasn''t in any state to think clearly. She would agree with whatever Eleanor said. "Of course, I''ll follow you."


    "Okay, then we''ll go to the front. If you''re scared, just close your eyes, and I''ll lead you


    Cami nodded vigorously, buried in Eleanor''s embrace. They navigated their way through the twists and turns until they finally reached the front. As soon as Gregory spotted Eleanor, it was like seeing a savior. He quickly grabbed her right arm and murmured, "Eleanor, I''ll protect you."


    Eleanor looked at Gregory clinging to her arm, most of his body hiding behind her, and couldn''t help but ask, "Are you suge you say the right words?"


    Gregory grinned widely. Even though he seemed cowardly, he only stated. Tm scared that the ghosts might touch your arm and scare you. You don''t understand my good intentions"


    Eleanor scoffed internally, thinking, ''Well, thanks for that! She wrapped her left arm around Cami while her right arm was held by Gregory, struggling to move forward under the weight. Thements from Samuel''s fans in the livestream began flooding the screen.


    [Hahaha, someone is really just pretending to be tough. He ims he isn''t scared. Doesn''t he feel ashamed?]


    [Where''s Gregory''s masculinity?]


    [He gets scared this easily right after entering. How will he handle taskster?]


    [So pathetic! Hiding behind a girl and saying he isn''t scared. How ridiculous and disgusting!)


    I''m just a passerby. What''s the name of that brave girl at the front? She seems pretty courageous.]


    I think her name is Eleanor. She''s a neer. I don''t know much about her.]Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    [I feel a bit attracted to her, though.]


    Samuel''s fans seized on Gregory''s weakness and began attacking him furiously, while Gregory''s fans, who usually boasted 12:51 Wed, Nov 13


    1K 78%


    the fiercest fighting power, obediently fell silent. They also felt that Gregory was acting quite cowardly, which was embarrassing


    The haunted house situation was being filmed by fixed cameras in each room, and the cameraman hadn''t followed them inside. The screen disying the livements remained outside.


    The few people inside the haunted house had no idea how the fans werementing on them, especially Eleanor. She was too focused on moving forward to think about gaining her first loyal fans in such a situation.


    As Eleanor passed by Samuel, she seemed to catch a glimpse of resentment in his eyes. Eleanor''s big eyes shed with. confusion as she thought, What is he upset about? Is it because I''m blocking his chance to take the lead?"


    After contemting for a moment, Eleanor hesitantly asked, "Samuel, why don''t you go ahead?" She felt it might be better if she didn''tpete with Samuel.


    However, even after Eleanor said this, the resentment in Samuels eyespletely turned into bitterness. He huffed and turned away angrily, saying, "What does it have to do with you? Ihave my own pace. Whether I live or die has nothing to do with you. Take your two precious darlings and roll far away."


    Samuel''s words felt incredibly wronged, and for a moment, Eleanor felt like a terrible viin who had abandoned her duty. In fact, Samuel himself didn''t even know what he was angry about. He repeated in his mind countless times that he only needed to protect Gloria. Eleanor was cold-hearted and didn''t deserve to be his sister.


    However, when he saw Eleanor protecting Cami while also taking care of Gregory without showing concern for him, he couldn''t help but feel inexplicably jealous. He thought, ''Aren''t I her real brother? Yet she''s protecting my mortal enemy right in front of me. Hmph! The more he thought about it, the angrier he became..


    Eleanor was even more confused. She had no idea why Samuel was upset since he had been perfectly fine just moments ago.


    An awkward and bizarre atmosphere began to spread through the group. Fortunately, at that moment, a crackling sound came from the speaker, announcing the tasks for the haunted house escape and providing relief to Eleanor.


    "Good morning, yers! Today''s haunted house escape theme is The Vanishing Bride. A count married a beautiful young woman, but on the night of their wedding, the bride mysteriously disappeared, leaving behind only a red high-heeled shop.


    "However, the bride never left the count''s estate, and all the secrets are hidden within this ceric mansion. Please help the groom find the bride to win the game and escape sessfully."


    With a loud bang, the door in front of them suddenly opened.


    Just as Samuel was still protecting Gloria, he abruptly released her and jumped to Eleanor''s side, forcefully grabbing Eleanor''s arm that was wrapped around Cami and pulling her arm tightly into his embrace.


    Eleanor was startled, not because of the suddenly opened door or the terrifying atmosphere, but due to Samuel''s sudden shout. She thought, I already had two people clinging to me, and now there''s another one? With a long sigh, she helplessly said. "If you all are afraid of ghosts, why did you

 Jilted Bride 126

    0


    COMMENT


    Gregory shut his eyes tightly and clung to Eleanor''s right arm, trembling all over as he stubbornly said, "Even if I get scared to death. I''ll make sure Samuel is with me."


    Samuel gripped Eleanor''s left arm just as tightly, also shaking. "Me too."


    Eleanor thought. What''s the point of killing an enemy but injuring yourself ten thousand times?"


    The vast audience in the live stream flooded the screen withments of "lol", drowning everything else out. Even Samuel''s fans, who had just been mocking Gregory, no longer felt so superior. They thought, Alright, Samuel seems just as scared He''s not much better than Gregory.


    Both fan bases cleverly avoided the topic, and the conversation shifted to the bravest person present-Eleanor.


    I have to say, this girl is really brave and very calm.]


    [Did you just see Gloria''s face? It''s hrious! She wants to stick close to Samuel, but it turns out he''s scared too. Samuel didn''t hesitate at all when he pushed her away]


    [How can she still say she''s Samuel''s favorite sister? If what she says is true, would Samuel abandon her?]


    [She''s just riding on his coattails. Honestly, Eleanor has a bener rtionship with Samuel than she does.]


    [This scene is really funny. Eleanor has three cowards hanging off of her, hahaha.]


    II''m starting to think about supporting this girl]


    [Me too. She''s beautiful, clever, and doesn''t seek the spotlight. How could anyone not like her?]


    [I just looked up her name and found out she doesn''t even have a Twitter ount yet. My goodness, for someone so beautiful not to have Twitter is just wasting her looks! [Eleanor, please open a Twitter. I want to be your first fan!]


    Eleanor had no idea she had be the center of attention. She was focused on how to find clues. Taking a deep breath, she looked at the three cowards hanging onto her. "Could you loosen your grip a bit? I want to look around for clues. If you''re scared, you can just stay here. Ille back to get you once I find something, okay?"


    But none of them showed any intention of letting go. Instead, they hugged even tighter, afraid that if they released their hold, Eleanor would run away


    Eleanor tried to break free, but the three of them were holding on for dear life, leaving her unable to move at all. In desperation, she nced back at Zane, hoping he would help, but she found him and Gloria huddled together in a corner, trembling and not even daring to open their eyes. Eleanor thought. Looks like I have to rely on myself.


    "Can we all go in and look for clues together?" Eleanor asked, and the three of them reluctantly nodded.


    The room was small, styled like a courtly wedding chamber, and was supposedly the ce where the bride disappeared. Logically, this should be an area rich with clues.


    -Eleanor searched the nearest vanity but didn''t find anything suspicious. Just as she was about to look elsewhere, she realized


    she was held back by the three cowards, unable to step forward.


    Eleanor said. "Could you loosen your grip? I want to check other ces. If you''re scared, just stand here. Is that okay?"


    But the three of them had no intention of letting go.


    III


    Seeing just how terrified they were, Eleanor didn''t dare to struggle free forcefully, worried it might trigger them further. So, she remained there, waiting


    The staff had never encountered such a hesitant group and could no longer hold back. The speaker announced, "Attention yers, that this room will be open for half an hour. If you don''t find a way to escape within that time, this room will be permanently closed. Additionally, I''d like to remind you that ten minutes have already passed.


    Upon hearing the announcement, Eleanor felt like she saw a glimmer of hope in a desperate situation. She quickly said, "It''s already been ten minutes! If we don''t find clues now, we''ll be stuck here forever. You wouldn''t want to spend your whole life here, would you?" In normal circumstances, they wouldn''t have believed such a thing. It was just a game, and the staff wouldn''t actually keep them locked inside for life. However, they were so frightened that they couldn''t think clearly. Hearing Eleanor say this made them quickly loosen their grip.


    Before Cami let go, she pleaded, "You have toe back and find me, okay? I''ll wait for you here."


    Gregory added, "Yeah, if you don''te back for us, I''ll cut ties with you."


    Samuel nodded. "Right"


    Eleanor silently observed the tiny room, where even turning around meant bumping into things. Their words made it sound like she was going on a long journey. "Alright, I promise.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Seeing Eleanor agree, they finally began to let go. As soon as they released her, Eleanor exhaled deeply, feeling as if she had shed several pounds and felt much lighter.


    She quickly searched through the other furniture in the room and actually found a hiddenpartment under the bed, where she discovered a dagger.


    Eleanor thought, ''An ordinary dagger-why hidd it, especially in such a hard-to-findpartment? Who hid it? Was it the bride? If it was the bride, how did she know there was a secretpartment here? And if it was the count, then he wouldn''t need to hide it, would he? Just then, despite being scared, Zane didn''t want to be looked down upon by the fans. He trembled as he searched for clues. Suddenly, he shouted, "Look! There are words written on the wall here!"


    Eleanor hurried over to take a look. Indeed, there were words scribbled in a crooked manner with a quill. [In the longing of thetter half of the night, like flowing water, far and wide.)


    Zane seemed eager topliment Gloria and spoke up before Eleanor could. "Gloria, you''re a student at Aloria High School and excel in your studies. Can you tell us what clues this phrase expresses?"


    Zane''s ttery brightened Gloria''s mood, lifting her spirits after Samuel had walked away from her. It felt as if she had finally regained a sense of presence, and she smiled brightly.


    She analyzed. "These words must have been written by the bride. The meaning is likely that the longing after midnight is like a thin stream, endless and continuous. So, the bride probably disappeared in thetter half of the night."


    Then, gathering her courage, she looked around and said, "There should be props nearby to support this assumption. Let''s find them."


    Hearing her analysis, Zane smiled and said, "Gloria, you''re so smart! No wonder you''re a student at Aloria High School. You can see the meaning of this phrase instantly. I''ll help you find the clues!"


    12.5 Wed, Nov 13


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 Jilted Bride 127

    Gloria listened to thepliments, feeling quite pleased as she thought, I knew that with my cleverness, I could easily navigate through this challenge.


    I found the right direction and felt confident I would soon discover the escape mechanism. Once I get through this, the audience will definitely admire my intelligence, and I can establish myself as a top student. The more Gloria thought about it, the happier she became, even forgetting that they were in a haunted house.


    Suddenly, Gloria turned to Eleanor, who was standing silently beside her, still looking at the words on the wall. A trace of sarcastic amusement shed across her face, but it wasn''t very noticeable in the dim light.


    Gloria smiled slightly and said. "Eleanor, we''ve already figured out this clue, so you don''t need to keep looking. Let''s go find something else."


    Eleanor didn''t move, her g gaze still fixed on the words on the wal


    Seeing Eleanor ignore her, Gloria narrowed her eyes and thought. Just act aloof. Once I solve the puzzle, let''s see how you continue to show off.


    The room was small, and they quickly found an iron box under a nearby table.


    Gloria''s eyes lit up with surprise, and she couldn''t help but exim, "This box must contain the key to the next level!"


    Zane nodded. "That''s very likely."


    However, the iron box had abination lock shaped like a clock.


    Gloria stroked her chin, frowning in thought. The phrase we just read mentioned thetter half of the night, which is after midnight. That would mean one o''clock. Can you try setting it to one?"


    Zane slowly adjusted the numbers, aligning them to one o''clock "Click." The wooden box actually opened.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Gloria''s eyes widened in surprise, and she jumped up with excitement. "Oh my goodness, we really solved it! Let''s see what''s inside!" Her voice carried loudly in the small room, echoing around. The three scared individuals, still in shock, heard her deration of sess and moved closer to her.


    Though Gregory disliked Gloria, he knew this wasn''t the time to focus on such trivial matters. Their priority was to get "Hurry, let''s see what''s inside!"


    Samuel chimed in, "Gloria, check if it''s the key to getting out."


    out.


    As Gloria noticed the others gathering around, she felt a surge of pride. She thought, I knew I could crack this first level''s code. After today, my poprity will surely rise, making my path in the entertainment industry much smoother. As for Eleanor... What does she have topete with me?"


    Gloria took a deep breath, suppressing her excitement, and quickly opened the wooden box. In the dim light of the room, she could make out what was inside.


    "Oh wow, it really is a key!" Cami eximed first. "It should be the key to the door. Hurry and try it!"


    Clorid pulled out the key but didn''t rush to open the door. Instead, she looked at Eleanor, who was still silent off to the side, and feigned sweetness, saying, "Eleanor, I''ve cracked the code and found the key. Let''s go out together" Although it sounded like an invitation, it was more of a boast.


    Eleanor frowned and ignored Gloria''s sarcasm, focusing seriously on the key in their hands. "I think it''s a bit strange. Maybe it''s best if you don''t open the door. This key was too easily found which feels like a trap."


    Although Eleanor had never yed a game like this before, she understood that brain-teasing games wouldn''t rely solely on one clue to fund the final answer. Moreover, Gloria''s analysis had beenpletely incorrect, yet they will found the key, making everything even stranger


    Eleanor thought, "So, this key might just be a decoy!


    Hearing Eleanor say this, the fake smile on Gloria''s face vanished entirely. "Eleanor, how do you know this key is a trap? Do you have any evidencer


    "No." Eleanor replied honestly, thinking. This is a game. It''s not a crime scene, so where would the evidencee from?


    Seeing this as a chance to pin her down, Gloria spoke with a feigned grievance. "Eleanor, you just admitted you have no evidence, so why are you so certain this isn''t a real key? Do you have something against me


    Eleanor rubbed her forehead, thinking, It''s already enough of a headache searching for clues. Now, I have to deal with Gloria''s sarcasm and schemes. She just has to hit a will to realize it''s hard, or else she''ll never turn back." "Fine, then you go ahead," Eleanor said sodily.


    Gloria felt that Eleanor was feeling jealous and snorted coldly, heroming even more convinced of her impending victory while pretending to be magnanimous. "Don''t be disheartened, Eleanor. I believe you''ll definitely figure out the subsequent parts. Juste out with us this time?


    When Gloria said this, she truly presented an image of being generous and magnanimous to the oblivious viewers in the live stream, and the earlier criticisms began to shift towards praise.


    It seems Gloria is quite clever, managing to find the clues so quickly.]


    Wasn''t Zane saying she was a student at Aloria High School? That''s a top school nationwide. The students are the best of the


    best


    It seems Gloria is indeed more attractive than Eleanor. Eleanor is brave, but shecks Gloria''s cleverness)


    [Gloria found the key while Eleanor tried to stop them from going out. What scheme does she have? Doesn''t she kno Samuel is scared3]


    [She probably just wants more camera time. Since Samuel relicsen her so much, if they escapeter, she can take extra screen time. Newbies have their little schemes]


    [Gloria is pretty friendly. She even told Eleanor to leave together. She seems like a nice person.]


    [As long as she can take Samuel out, I''m willing to support her as well.]


    Confident, Gloria held the key up to the lock on the door. The crap sound of unlocking echoed through the space.


    Gloria''s eyes brightened, and she pulled on the door, but it remained firmly shut. She thought, "What''s going on? I definitely heard the sound of unlocking!


    Just then, a shrill, eerie noise simr to an rm rang out in the room, piercing and strange.

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    15:49 Thu, Nov 14 Chapter


    128


    "Back then, we thought we could take advantage, but we didn''t expect Scott to wake up. He freed Heather and then came back to save Emily. During the struggle..."


    "We just took out the knife to scare them; we didn''t mean to hurt anyone."


    "Yes, we didn''t mean to hurt anyone. We just wanted money."


    "Yeah, it was Emily Hastings, that bitch. She pushed that guy onto the knife... it has nothing to do with us, really nothing!"


    Caleb frowned, thinking they had already told him the truth. He didn''t expect there was more to the story.


    Ophelia''s chest heaved as she calmly said, "Keep talking."


    "Then she ran. We were afraid of causing a death, so we pulled the knife out. Two guys went after them. Just when we thought about dealing with the dead body, your people arrived. Everything we said is true, I swear!" The man, hands and feet bound, wriggled desperately.


    Ophelia handed the gun back to Caleb, as calmly as if nothing had happened. But the calmer it was, the more unusual it seemed. "Find Emily," she said.


    The tech department restored the surveince video early in the morning. Ophelia sat on the couch in Rosewood Manor, watching the grainy, dark surveince footage over and over, which was silent and only had visuals. It was almost exactly what those people had said. In the surveince video, the person wearing the Evend Hotel server''s uniform was Emily.


    As Scott was trying to help her escape, someone grabbed her hair. Just after Scott pushed those people away, Emily turned around and, without him knowing, pushed him onto the knife''s edge.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Scott took the knife directly in the back, and the people were so shocked that they immediately pulled it out. Emily ran away without even looking back. Heather had disappeared long ago.


    If either of them had just turned to check on Scott and got him to a hospital in time, things wouldn''t have ended up like this. She dragged the progress bar back, and the scene yed again.


    "Don''t watch it anymore," Keh said as he snatched her phone away. He thought, ''Why put yourself through this?''


    "I''m fine, really," she said calmly. She was determined to get revenge for Scott and make those two feel the same pain!


    Caleb'' called just as the dawn was breaking. "One''s at Serenity Vi, which is Sophia''s ce. The other are hiding in a budget hotel on Seondi Road."


    Ophelia quickly went upstairs and changed into new clothes. The ck coat made her face look even paler and sicklier. Keh wasn''t sure if he should allow her to do this. After a sleepless night, she was heading out again.


    He frowned and stepped in front of her to stop her. "Let me handle this, okay? Go back inside and get some sleep, alright? Be good!"


    "No, you know me," Ophelia said, looking up with brown, stubborn eyes that held a hint of pleading. She thought, ''I was going to be headstrong just this once. I had to make Emily pay!


    X


    Keh''s sharp eyebrows knitted together. Looking at her stubborn demeanor, he realized he should be angry, but more than that, he felt worried about her.


    They locked eyes for half a minute before he finally gave in. He took a deep breath, pulled her into his arms, gently


    caressing her back, and with the softest voice said, "Come back soon."


    3


    Ophelia said, "Okay." She, along with a group, left Rosewood Manor and made their way to the Serenity Vi in a grand manner. With Keh''s informationwork, finding someone wasn''t hard. "Wait for me outside," she told the others.


    "Ma''am, Keh asked us to protect your safety."


    "I won''t say it again." Her fierce gaze was exactly like Keh''s. Even though they were his subordinates, they were overwhelmed by her aura and could only step back.


    56%1


    Ophelia rang the doorbell. The smart door camera inside the door showed her innocent face. The door was opened by the housekeeper, "Who are you looking for?" "I''m looking for... Sophia."


    "Oh, please wait a moment." Just as the housekeeper was about to close the door, Ophelia blocked it with her hand. "It''s a bit cold outside. Can I wait inside by the door?"


    Noticing her pale face from the cold and seeing she didn''t seem like a threat, the housekeeper decided to let her in. Ophelia indeed stood obediently by the door, not stepping even a single inch further inside.


    The housekeeper went upstairs to call Sophia, who soon came down with a bathrobe on. After seeing who was at the door, Sophia''s sleepiness vanished instantly. She asked, "Why are you here?"


    Ophelia noticed an expression often seen on Emily''s face Sophia, making her eyes grow colder, yet she maintained a faint smile. "I wanted to talk to you." Her tone was calm, without a hint of emotion. "You are a smart person." Sophia looked upstairs and instantly knew it must be that troublemaker who had stirred things up. She looked Ophelia up and down with sharp eyes, more observant than both Emily and Heather.


    Sophia said, "Come in." With a smile on her face, Sophia slowly walked down the stairs as Ophelia also entered.


    "Mandy, could you go get us some breakfast?" Sophia sent her away, leaving only the two of them in therge hall.


    "Are you trying to figure out a way to help your son? I have some evidence that might assist you." Ophelia ced a USB drive on the table.


    "Ophelia, what are your conditions? Just say it directly," Sophia said.


    *****


    After Ophelia left, Sophia reviewed the contents of the USB drive and, once confirming it was useful, immediately knocked on Emily''s door. When no one answered from inside, she simply opened the door and went in. Just as the door opened, Emily suddenly woke up from a dream sitting up straight and gasping for air. She thought, ''Scott''s death has nothing to do with me!''


    She looked at Sophia with disgust, "Why did youe in?"


    Sophia Carter didn''t get upset and said pleasantly, "Emily, get up. Weren''t you nning to take revenge on Ophelia?"


    At the mention of taking revenge on Ophelia, all traces of sleepiness vanished from Emily''s face. "What? Hurry up and tell


    me!"


    "Get up first and I''ll tell you! Clean yourself up," Sophia said.


    Emily hated ying along, but when it came to taking revenge on Ophelia, she''d do whatever it took.


    56%


    It seemed like it might snow today, with the sk

 Jilted Bride 129

    Chapter


    129


    The car pulled up to a private dock, where a few yachts were moored by the shore.


    From afar, Emily noticed several men in ck standing on the pier. On the yacht''s deck was someone with hands and feet tied, a bup bag over one''s head.


    Excitement shed in her eyes. Emily thought, ''Could that be Ophelia? Since Sophia could openly bring her here, it should be fine for me to go. If only I could kill Ophelia with my hands, now that would be satisfying! "Let me out of the car. I want to go take a look!" Emily smirked, a hint of malice in her eyes; her tone was more like she was ordering a servant.


    Caught in her dilemma, Sophia stopped hesitating when she heard those words.


    Sophia thought, ''After all, she never saw me as a mother, only ever taking from me.''


    Sophia didn''t say anything. She just unlocked the car for Emily to get out.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    The sky outside was a dull gray, and the waves along the shore were especially strong.


    Emily carefully hid behind another yacht, observing the woman in the sack not far away,pletely motionless.


    "Ophelia, I didn''t expect to see you like this."


    "Hmm, there are many things you wouldn''t expect."


    Emily was taken aback. She thought, ''Why does the voice from above sound so familiar?''


    She looked up and met Ophelia''s icy gaze, her pupils dting as she instinctively stepped back two paces.


    Emily nced again at the person nearby. She thought, "That woman isn''t Ophelia? What is Sophia doing? Couldn''t she sort out something so simple?''


    She furrowed her eyebrows, nervously watching Ophelia in front of her.


    Ophelia''s gaze was calm, her pale face expressionless. In a ck coat, she stood there like a ghost.


    Emily was wary of any tricks from Ophelia in front of her, watching closely while her steps moved backward. Suddenly, Emily''s retreat ca

 Jilted Bride 130

    11:48 Fri, Nov 15 @B.


    Chapter 0:78%


    130


    "Elia, what are you doing? You can''t be nning to kill me, can you? You should think about how I have been good to you...


    "Good to me?" Ophelia looked at her coldly, searching through her memories, unable to find anything rted to those words.


    Ophelia thought, Was it when the Hastings family took me back only to let me stay in the doghouse? Or when they smashed coffee cups at me to vent their frustration? Or perhaps, was it when they drugged me and sent me to an old man?'' Ophelia wore a cold smirk; none of that mattered to her anymore. She just wanted to know what Heather thought of Scott. After all, he was her biological son.


    She nced at Caleb, who immediately yanked Heather by her hair, dragging her upper body back from beyond the railing and throwing her unceremoniously onto the deck. Heather was still in shock, gasping for air, but what she saw before her was even more terrifying. She saw Emily, covered in blood and looking deathly pale. Then she shouted.


    She desperately moved back, overwhelmed by the scent of the ocean mixed with the smell of blood, causing her to start retching. Arthat moment, she truly believed that Ophelia was going to kill her.


    Ophelia slowly crouched down, gently brushing her fingers through the hair on her face. "Don''t worry. You''ll die soon, too." "No! Ophelia, let me go, please... You''re the daughter I love the most..." Heather said. Ophelia thought, ''What nonsense are you talking about?''


    "What about your son?" Ophelia asked.


    Heather was too terrified to think clearly, so she just shook her head frantically. "Harry isn''t my son! Do whatever you want, but Nathan is still in prison..."


    Ophelia frowned, "What about Scott?"


    Heather''s face looked like she just remembered she had another son named Scott. Her mouth opened slightly. "If you''re looking for him, go find him yourself. Please let me go."


    Ophelia clenched her fists, thinking about Scott in the hospital room with an oxygen mask, a vibrant young man who might never wake up again. Her heart ached for his unfair situation. Ophelia was speechless.


    Ophelia thought, ''Why did Scott save two terrible people? Sometimes we just can''t be too kind.


    Heather wanted to speak, but Ophelia gripped her neck tightly with one hand.


    The usually calm and indifferent eyes were now filled with a fierce. "Heather, why are you so cruel?"


    Heather''s face turned bright red, her breathing became morebored, and her hands were trapped behind her back, giving her no chance to struggle.


    Her brain was gradually swelling, "Elia, Scott won''t just watch you kill me..."


    In the next moment, Ophelia''s grip rxed a little.


    Heather realized she had made the right choice. She gasped for air, but just as it filled her lungs, the hold on her neck tightened even more.


    Chapter 130-


    "Yes, but he can''t see it anymore... Ophelia''s voice was very soft, but her grip became stronger.


    78%


    "Ophelia!" Seeing Heather about to copse, Caleb wanted to intervene. Such matters were best left to them; there was no need to dirty Ophelia''s hands. He looked pleadingly at Keh in the cabin. Suddenly, arge hand caught Ophelia''s slender and pale wrist.


    Staying in the cabin and letting Ophelia handle this alone, Keh stopped her. "Be good, let go. No need to dirty your hands."


    Ophelia''s cold eyes were devoid of warmth. Heather''s eyes rolled back, and she immediately fainted. Ophelia finally let go. but just as she stood up, her vision suddenly darkened, and she fainted too. Keh immediately held her in his arms, pressing the back of his hand against her forehead. Keh thought. ''So hot!


    "Turn back!" Keh ordered, and the yacht immediately turned around. He frowned as he looked at Ophelia in his arms, thinking he should not have let her do that.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    At the hospital, Ophelia slept peacefully for the whole day.


    In the evening, when the Carnegie family heard about it, they rushed to the hospital, even Theo Carnegie came despite his old age.


    "What''s going on? Elia was just fine when she leftst night!" Theo Carnegie''s tone had a hint of me towards Keh. Keh''s face was serious as he nced at Theo Carnegie, his eyes cold and intimidating. Keh thought, ''Considering he is concerned about Elia, I decided to let it go and not make a big deal out of it."


    "Doctor, how is Elia?" Theo Carnegie asked.


    Aside from ra and Rex, the rest of the Carnegie family had gathered, all eyes fixed on the doctor.


    "Ophelia has a high fever. We''ve given her something to reduce it. She should wake up after resting overnight, so there''s no major concern."


    Bethany anxiously watched Ophelia on the bed, her face pale, worry gripping her heart. "And that''s supposed to mean she''s alright?"


    "Alright, let''s head back now. We shouldn''t disturb Elia''s rest. Keh can handle things here on his own," Theo Carnegie instructed, leading the group out of the room, despite their reluctance.


    Theo Carnegie thought, ''So many people here are not helpful and would only disturb Elia''s rest.


    Fiy put an arm around Bethany''s shoulders, giving her a reassuring pat. "Don''t worry, we''ll make some nourishing soup for Elia when we get back. We''lle again first thing tomorrow


    "Okay," Bethany nodded and said, taking a peek through the window on the door.


    Opheliay there peacefully, her longshes casting a shadow beneath her eyes, as quiet as a sleeping beauty. A transfusion needle was inserted into the back of her pale hand.


    Keh sat upright in the chair by the bed, unmoving like a statie, not daring to take his eyes off her for a moment. But the slight tremor in his clenched jaw suggested he was making an important decision. The next morning. The first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains into the room.


    913


    11:48 Fri, Nov 15 @B


    at 70%.


    A touch of stubble appeared on Keh''s defined jawline, and his narrow eyes were bloodshot. He stayed by her side the entire night.


    Keh thought, ''Didn''t they say the fever would break, and she would wake up this morning? The fever had subsided by dawn, yet she hadn''t woken up.''


    Keh reached out again to feel her forehead, noticing her longshes fluttering slightly and her eyebrows furrowing as if she were in a nightmare.


    Suddenly, Ophelia opened her eyes and was met with a blinding white and a pair of elegant hands. Before her vision cleared, a straw was gently pressed to her lips. "Drink water." Keh''s voice was cold, making her shiver involuntarily.


    Ophelia''s throat was indeed dry, feeling as if it were burning. She bit down on the straw and drank the warm water, gulping it down sip by sip.


    As her vision gradually cleared, she turned her head and saw Keh by the bed, cold as ice.


    Ophelia coughed immediately. Keh pulled out a tissue and gently wiped the corner of her mouth. Keh''s chest rose and fell as if he were silently fuming.


    "I''ve taken care of it. You don''t need to know how. All you need to know is that your freedom is used up," Keh said.

 Jilted Bride 131

    Ophelia closed her eyes; her head still felt a bit dizzy. She had no idea how long she had been asleep.


    Slowly, her memory started toe back.


    She thought, ''Emily is dead, and Heather must be dead. Sophia would bail Harry out of lockup, while Nathan was likely facing prison time. As for Owen, nobody cared about him, and he''d probably end up with just one oue." "How''s Scott doing?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh thought, "The first t


    e said when she woke up was to ask about someone else. Did she hear what I said?


    "Ophelia." The name was forced out through Keh''s gritted teeth.


    "Hmm?" Ophelia tilted her head, staring at Keh in front of her. His brow was still furrowed, and he was still wearing the clothes from the day of the party.


    Ophelia thought, ''Judging by his tone, he is upset''


    Ophelia stretched her hand out from under the nket, her fingers gently hooking onto Keh''s hand hanging at his side. "I heard everything you said. I''ll be more obedient from now on! Her voice was light and childlike.


    Ophelia thought, ''As for freedom, it''s best not to emphasize it. Anyway, now that the Hastings family has been taken care of, from now on, Keh is the only one world.''


    in


    my


    "It''s just a fever, don''t worry about it." Ophelia always thought she was very resilient and didn''t want Keh to worry, but instead, she ended up making him even more concerned. She licked her!


    lips, herrge eyes clear and bright, gazing at Keh beside her.


    "How''s Scott doing?" Afterforting him with a few words, she started to ask about someone else.


    Keh flicked away her reaching fingers. "He''s not dying."


    She knew and thought, ''Forget it, better not ask and upset him.''


    Ophelia thought, ''Right now, the best thing is to act cute. She raised her arms, holding them up in the air. "Hug me..."


    Those soft words were like a bucket of water that instantly extinguished Keh''s anger.


    Keh,


    ''What am I upset about? That she wasn''t taking care of herself, or that I hadn''t taken good care of her!


    Ever since he had Ophelia, his principles kept dropping in front of her.


    He leaned over, and her small arms immediately wrapped around his neck, lifting her upper body off the hospital bed.


    Keh pulled her into an embrace, feeling her thin back and her bones almost protruding. He thought, ''When will she eyer gain some weight?''


    All his irritation disappeared as she willingly snuggled into his arms. Ophelia could easily calm all of his emotions.


    Ophelia let go of him, but Keh wasn''t going to release her. He lowered himself, casting arge shadow over her, held her head, and kissed her lips, sucking and nibbling, firm yet gentle. Outside the door, Bethany and Lisa hesitated to enter with the soup they brought. The two exchanged smiles, feeling a bit


    8%


    awkward. At their age, watching young couples unt their love was something new.


    "It''s good to be young." They were already used to it at Rosewood Manor.


    "Yeah, I understand it," Bethany said with a nod. After all, everyone was young once.


    After the two inside parted, those outside knocked and came in.


    ""Miss, how are you feeling?" Lisa asked.


    "Elia, are you feeling any better?" Bethany asked.


    "I''m fine now. The fever''s gone down," Ophelia said with a smile. Her pale lips showed a bit of color after Keh''s kiss, though her head still felt dizzy.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Lisa touched her forehead, then her own. "It''s still a bit warm, and your cheeks are rosy. You need more rest, you shouldn''t..."


    Lisa hesitated, her eyes unintentionally drifting toward Mr. Sinir.


    "It''s okay, young people recover quickly. You''re looking much better. Elia,e and drink some medicine. Bethany rolled the table over, cing it in front of her.


    "I also made some of your favorite side dishes and a pot of soup." Lisa put the insted bag on the table as well.


    Soon, the table was filled, and the twodies squeezed around her, watching eagerly, as if whoever she started with would be the winner.


    "Isn''t the soup too greasy? Elia, try some rib soup instead. You''ve had a high fever, so you need to replenish your nutrients, especially protein." Bethanydled out a bowl of rib soup for her and handed it over. "Thank you." Ophelia took it and had a sip. "It tastes good."


    Watching her drink, Bethany smiled warmly and took the bowl to fill it halfway again.


    Sensing Keh''s gaze, Lisa quickly corrected herself and said, "Ophelia, you should eat more. You slept for a whole day and night; your stomach must be empty. Mr. Sinir, why don''t you have some too?" After Lisa spoke, she nced at the food on the table and felt a little embarrassed. It seemed like she forgot to prepare a portion for Keh.


    "Mr. Sinir, we''re handling everything here, so maybe you should go and change into something else," Lisa said.


    Keh, squeezed to the end of the bed, remained silent with a stern expression. He thought, ''And now they dared to start ordering me around.''


    Lisa felt uneasy under his gaze, so she focused on taking care of Ophelia, ignoring Keh.


    "I''m alright, you don''t all have to keep watching me." The three people sat surrounding her, watching her eat intently. It felt a bit odd.


    Bethany said, "It''s okay, the more you eat, the happier we are." Lisa agreed as she served more food.


    After breakfast, the nurse came to check her temperature. "Her temperature has been normal three times. We can release her in a few hours, but make sure she gets enough rest and doesn''t overexert herself at home." "Thank you." Bethany walked the nurse to the door.


    "Since everything''s fine now, I''ll be heading back. Theo Carnegie is still at home waiting for me toe back and tell him everything''s alright. Elia, it''s almost New Year''s. Why don''t you and Keh spend it at the Carnegie family?"


    11:48 Fri, Nov 15 ti B


    "I''m good," Before Ophelia could answer, Keh had already spoken up to refuse.


    78%1


    Bethany was momentarily taken aback but showed no sign of displeasure. "Oh, I see you have other ns. Remember toe home after New Year''s, Elia."


    "Okay," Ophelia nodded and smiled at her.


    Returning to the Carnegie family, Bethany noticed the atmosphere was somewhat tense. She handed the thermos meal box to the maid, walked over, and saw what on the table. There were costly medicines and valuable supplements.


    Fiy and ra remained silent.


    Looking at the items on the table, Bethany understood everything without needing an exnation.


    Married into the Carnegie family for over twenty years, every New Year''s, Theo Carnegie always felt particrly heavy-hearted.


    She had thought his mood might get better this year after acknowledging a new granddaughter, but it was just the same as usual.


    Seeing Bethany, Theo Carnegie managed to show a slight change in expression. "How''s Elia doing?"


    "Elia is awake now. And she''s got a pretty good appetite. She ate all the soup I brought for her," Bethany replied.


    Theo Carnegie nodded, "By the way, what about the New Year..."


    "Keh probably has ns for her, so she''s noting back for the holiday. She''ll be back after the New Year," Bethany replied.


    With a brief exchange, Theo Carnegie nodded and, using his gold-topped cane for support, headed towards the elevator at home, saying, "Just throw everything away!"


    He gave the order in a cold tone, then stepped into the elevator and went upstairs.

 Jilted Bride 132

    3Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    78%


    In the hospital, Ophelia had wrapped up her discharge formalities. Before leaving, she went to see Scott Hastings.


    There hey motionless, with only his chest rising and falling and a heartbeat to indicate life, his eyes firmly shut. Once a lively young man, Scott was reduced to lying in a hospital bed.


    The doctor had told her there was a chance he might wake up within three months; beyond that, the outlook wasn''t good. And he could remain in this state for years on end.


    Keh walked into the room. "I''ve reached out to some doctors overseas. They''ll being in for a consultation soon. Once his wounds heal well enough, he can be sent overseas for treatment. The first three months are the best time for treatment, and the sess rate is high. I''ll take care of it, so you don''t need to worry."


    "Okay." Ophelia nodded, her attention drifting back to Scott on the bed.


    Suddenly, arge hand grasped her head, turning her face away forcefully.


    "No more staring." She was the one dealing with all of this, and what was the point of watching anymore? They weren''t rted by blood. Besides, she had already shed tears for him, which had upset him enough.


    "Is he more handsome than me? Hmm?" Keh asked seriously.


    Ophelia was speechless. She thought, ''Did he really want to argue about looks at a time like this?"


    The man raised an eyebrow, looking very serious and persistent, as if he wouldn''t give up until she answered.


    "You two aren''t the same type." Ophelia thought, Scott was still just a kid. How could he possiblypare?''


    "What do you mean by that?" Keh looked confused and thought, ''Could I not evenpare to someone in aa?''


    "So what type am I?"


    Ophelia really didn''t want to discuss this here. But her previously heavy heart felt a bit lighter because of Keh''s ridiculous banter.


    "Alright, you''re handsome. Set a date for sending Scott abroad, and I''m tagging along."


    She had to make sure he was safely taken to the hospital for treatment before she could be at ease.


    "Alright, I''ll arrange everything."


    en


    Because Scott''s wounds weren''t fully healed yet, the departure was pushed back a few days to ensure he could fly safely.


    A few dayster, on the morning of New Year''s Eve in Hua Country.


    At the private international airport, a team of dedicated medical personnel carefully moved Scott from the ambnce to the airne. Apanying them was a specialized medical team, constantly monitoring his condition to ensure everything was perfect. Keh had everything organized down to thest detail, so she didn''t have to worry about a thing.


    After they got Scott settled, she followed Keh into the first-ss cabin.


    A


    1)


    a


    0078%


    It was her first time seeing such a luxurious first-ss cabin, which was like a small luxury hotelplete with a lounge area, entertainment options, and every amenity one could think of. "This year, you''ll be spending the holidays with me in a foreignnd," Keh said, ncing over at her.


    She didn''t care much. New Year didn''t mean much to her.


    Back when her grandmother was alive, she knew that eating dumplings was a must for the holiday. After her grandmother passed, she celebrated New Year with Chloe and Wyatt. During herst life in the Hastings family, all she saw was the warm and cheerful atmosphere among that family. So, she''d never understood the joy of celebrating the New Year. But now it was different. Her world was no longer just her alone.


    As the ne took off, sunlight poured through the clouds, creating a warm golden hue around them. It felt as if it were whispering that all good things would arrive just as expected.


    A few hourster, after lunch, Keh had dozed off.


    Ophelia felt difort in her ears and couldn''t fall asleep.


    She turned her head discreetly, studying Keh''s peaceful face. Keh lookedpletely different while asleep.


    His normally harsh brows were now rxed, and a deep crease stretched from the inner corner of his eyes to the outer, stripping away the intimidating aura and subtle pressure he usually exuded-his features had softened.


    He resembled a cat that had finally let its guard down. Describing him as a Maine Coon was quite fitting. Every frown and smile disyed an inherent elegance and aloofness.


    She tried to recall what he looked like as a child, and a vague memory shed of a ten-year-old boy-well-behaved, somewhat introverted, yet asionally disying a superior demeanor, as if he were surveying the world from above. With that thought, she gently rubbed the ring on her finger. When she looked up again, the man slowly lifted his eyelids, the crease from the corner of his eye was deeper, and his eyes seemed like whirlpools ready to pull her in. Ophelia was taken aback.


    "How am I supposed to sleep when you''re staring at me like that?" Keh asked with his tone sharp as a lion''s. And he was immediately on high alert the moment someone entered his space.


    "You seem quite energetic, hmm?" Keh gently yed with her hair, straightened his posture, pulled her onto hisp, and said, "Seems like you''ve been resting well these days." Since she was discharged from the hospital, he followed the doctor''s advice and ensured that she rested well.


    Beside the cozy


    leather seat was a spacious leather bed. Keh lifted her onto the bed and settled over her, saying, "Do you know what happens when you wake me up?"


    She clearly hadn''t said anything earlier.


    "We can sleep together on the bed. It''s morefortable that way."


    "And it can make you even morefortable," Keh said calmly, a hint of a smile ying on his lips.


    What was this man saying? Such bold words! They were on a ne. Did he really want to do something like that at 30,000


    feet?


    "After wend and get Scott settled, then we can..."


    11:48 Fri, Nov 15 ti B.


    ""Then what?"


    Did he really want her to spell it out?


    "Hmm?" he continued to ask, his fingers beginning to wander.


    "Do that thing again."


    "What sort of thing?"


    He insisted, whispering in her ear in a deep and husky voice, sending a shiver through her.


    Ophelia pressed her hands against his chest, flustered. "What do you think? I''m not really in the mood for it right now, and I can''t fully engage."


    As soon as she said that, her face turned bright red. What had he done to her? What was she saying!


    "Besides, the doctor told me to get plenty of rest and not to overexert myself. You know your own stamina." Ophelia could only bring up the doctor''s advice from a few days ago.


    Ophelia thought, ''If I had been led astray, then I might as well continue! After all, I wasn''t a saint.


    Badpany leads you astray.


    Sure enough, Keh stopped his yful advances.


    "Alright, go to sleep and rest up." He held her tightly as theyy on the bed. Before long, Ophelia fell asleep too. Whenever they encountered turbulence, Keh would wrap himself around her, holding her securely in his arms. After several hours of flying, the ne finallynded in Mgia. It was exactly eight in the morning.


    The hospital here was already contacted, and as soon as they got off the ne, someone was there to pick them up.


    As the two of them stepped out of the cabin, Keh was helping her adjust her scarf.


    Not far away, a deep, maic voice called ou

 Jilted Bride 133

    78%1


    ''Is someone picking us up?'' wondered Ophelia.


    Ophelia nced up and saw a man in a beige coat waving at them. The golden sunlight bathed him, making him glow.


    He walked over briskly, with a slight smile on his handsome, charming face. His features were defined yet gentle, especially those eyes.


    ''It turned out to be Adams, thought Ophelia.


    Keh casually adjusted the scarf for Ophelia. Seeing her eyes on another man, he immediately darkened his face.


    "Keh..." The man called out.


    Keh turned slightly, his eyes covered in a frostyyer. "Don''t call me like that again. It gives me the creeps."


    His voice was colder than the ice and snow in Mgia.


    "Haven''t I always called you that?" The man seemed unfazed, as if used to Keh''s mercurial mood.


    But then, his gaze fixed on Ophelia beside Keh.


    Ophelia had an ethereal grace, with big, expressive eyes that were bright and pure. A small tear mole below one of her eyes added to her innocent appeal.


    Yet her calm demeanor was a stark contrast to this innocence, creating a striking contradiction.


    This powerful contrast was incredibly captivating.


    The man''s eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Care to introduce us?"


    Ophelia was confused, wondering, ''Haven''t we met before?


    ''Didn''t Keh ask him to bail me from the police station when I was taken away by the police before?


    ''As awyer, that''s not the best memory to have!''


    "Ophelia." She calmly stated her name, a gentle smile on her lips polite and courteous.


    "Hello, I''m Ronin West, a doctor from the Brain Research Institute." The man extended his hand for a handshake.


    Before Ophelia could react, Keh had already taken her hand and tucked it into the pocket of his coat.


    "Uh... doctor?" Ophelia raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise shing in her clear eyes.


    "What? Don''t I look like one?" Ronin joked. He took out a pair of gold-rimmed sses from his coat pocket and wore them, instantly changing his demeanor.


    He suddenly looked a whole lot more professional. "Does this look more convincing now?" asked Ronin.


    It wasn''t that she doubted his professional abilities, but...


    "Twins sharing the same face," Keh said casually.


    "Oh." Ophelia nodded.


    She thought, ''So, it isn''t Adams! No wonder they look nearly identical, but on closer inspection, this man seems softer,


    11:48 Fri, Nov 15 B.


    without Adams''s sharpness..


    70%


    Ronin sighed, used to Keh''s tone by now. He rubbed his chin, frustrated at having to share such a handsome face with someone else.


    Ronin said, "Let''s go. We need to get the patient to the hospital first."


    At the airport entrance, Ronin coordinated with the doctor to get Scott into the ambnce.


    "All vital signs are stable with no issues from the long flight, which is better than expected. However, this isn''t necessarily good news," Ronin nced at the person inside the ambnce and spoke honestly. Ophelia understood what he meant.


    In this state, with no changes in the patient''s condition, it indicated that the patient was in a deep sleep, and the prospects of waking up were not optimistic.


    No matter the oue, she couldn''t give up on Scott.


    "I''ll go with the ambnce. Follow us in your car," Ronin said, closing the back door and moving to the passenger seat.


    Outside the airport, besides the ambnce, there were three ck SUVs parked, just like the ones Caleb and his team usually drove.


    Ronin got into the ambnce, while she and Keh got into the middle SUV.


    Ophelia could clearly sense that those dressed in ck were particrly respectful toward Keh.


    She was a bit curious.


    She remembered Eric mentioning that her protectors were from an organization called the Death Guild, so...


    She cast a nce at Keh.


    The car drove down the streets of Haveryshire. Keh reclined against the back of his seat, with one leg casually crossed over the other, and shifted his gaze toward her.


    Half of his face was in shadow, making his features more defined and striking.


    "What''s wrong?" he asked.


    "Just curious." Ophelia had never thought about it before, but now she was curious. His rtionship with these people seemed more than an ordinary job. "I''m curious about your life in Mgia." Keh stared at her intently. "Then stay a few more days, and I''ll show you around."


    Ophelia nodded. "Okay."Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Keh held her hand, his fingers gently brushing the ring on her ring finger. "Don''t forget what you promised me on the ne." ''Huh? What did I promise him?'' Ophelia wondered.


    Seeing her unwilling expression, Keh immediately narrowed his eyes dangerously. "Wanna go back on your word?"


    He leaned forward, his handsome face drawing closer to hers, his eyes brimming with intensity.


    She nced at the driver, who, just like Caleb and his team, kept a professional focus.


    11:48 Fri, Nov 15 ti @ B


    Keh''s incredibly handsome face was only inches away from hers.


    His gaze seemed to say, "If you dare back out, I''ll deal with you right here." Ophelia swallowed and said, "Let''s settle Scott first, and then we can talk." There was no escaping, so she might as well dy as long as possible.


    78%


    It was at the Inpatient Department, Saint Nox Research and Academic Hospital.


    This ce might be a hospital, but it felt more like a sanatorium, nestled in a scenic location with mountains and water, and equipped with all sorts of amenities.


    To put Ophelia at ease, Ronin even took her on a tour of their research department.


    Ronin said, "Currently, this technology is aimed at patients with brain injuries. For those who have been in aa for under three months, the recovery rate is as high as 65%.


    "The chance of waking up for those in aa for up to a year is around 35%, and for those over a year, it''s about 5%. there''s still a lot of hope. You can rx." "Alright." Ophelia nodded.


    Since it was arranged by Keh, she felt at ease.


    She initially intended to check on Scott in the ward, but the man beside her grasped her shoulder. "It won''t do any good even if you check on him. Since he''s here, just follow the doctor''s advice and avoid visiting too frequently."


    "You can..." Before Ronin could utter another word, he caught Keh''s icy gaze, warning him. He quickly corrected himself. "Yes, the patient needs a quiet andfortable environment to rest. Don''t worry. You''ll be updated on the situation every twenty days." Ronin adjusted his sses, a professional smile gracing his lips. "Take care. I won''t see you out."


    "Let''s go," said Keh.


    Through the ss, Ophelia nced at Scott, hoping he would wake up in three months, even if it meant he would hate her. Her hand was held by Keh, as if an adult was leading a child, and they left the hospital together.


    The ck SUV was still parked at the entrance, waiting for them


    Ophelia asked, "Where are we going?"


    "Don''t you want to know what my life is like in Mgia? I''ll take you to see it," said Keh.


    They got in the car and drove throughpletely unfamiliar scenery. They left the bustling streets behind and drove for a long time.


    They passed through dense tree canopies and entered a very private estate.


    11:48 Fri, Nov 15 @ B


    3


    8%

 Jilted Bride 134

    This ce was nestled against a majestic mountain and encircled by tall greenery. It created an extremely secluded environment. Ophelia found this ce somewhat familiar. It reminded her a bit of that estate in Denex.


    But this ce wasrger, with three rows of high-tech single buildings. Groups of men in ck were training in a field nearby. Driving past the long fountain in front of the main building, the car pulled up at the entrance.


    Rather than a manor, this ce looked more like a hidden base.


    This made her more certain of her thoughts.


    Once she got out of the car, Ophelia felt the temperature drop a little.


    Just as she sensed it, Keh adjusted the scarf around her neck


    His well-defined hand immediately took her hand, enclosing it in his warm palm.


    All men in ck greeted in unison, "Mr. Sinir."


    Upon seeing Keh, everyone stood up respectfully and nodded at him.


    Suddenly, Ophelia spotted two familiar people.


    She saw a rugged middle-aged man in ck with a beard. It was Ray.


    1


    ''Eric?'' A hint of surprise shed in her eyes as she had a brief two-second nce at Eric. Yet, she felt like the man next to her was about to crush her fingers.


    Ophelia looked away and followed Keh past the first three rows of buildings to a standalone vi situated on higher ground.


    It was quiet here, with a huge swimming pool at the front.


    On the third floor of the vi, there was a rooftop that provided a panoramic view of the entire estate.


    Inside, there was only a servant about the same age as Lisa. When the servant saw Ophelia, a hint of surprise showed in her eyes.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    "Mr. Sinir, you are back. Would you like lunch?" the servant asked.


    "Are you hungry?" Keh nced at Ophelia, his tone somewhat indifferent.


    "Not really," Ophelia replied.


    "Prepare it forter," Keh instructed, taking Ophelia''s hand and continuing upstairs.


    "Yes," the servant nodded and resumed her tasks.


    As they reached the second floor and were about to go upstairs, Ophelia suddenly asked, "Why do they call you Mr. Sinir?"


    Ophelia wondered, ''This title sounds a bit unfamiliar and awkward. Didn''t Caleb and the others used to call him Sinir since they''re familiar?


    78%1


    Fri, Nov 15 ti


    Keh remained silent-until he led her up to the third floor.


    As soon as they turned the corner, he pinned her against the wall. "Look again, and I''ll take his eyes out!"


    He couldn''t bear to hurt Ophelia, but taking out Eric''s eyes was no big deal for him.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow, taking a couple of seconds to understand what he was saying.


    She couldn''t help but find it a bit funny. "I just didn''t expect him to be here too." She hadn''t even said hi to Eric.


    "Didn''t you tell me to keep him around? Forgotten what you said?" asked Keh.


    "Oh, I just remembered," she said casually. When she looked up, her long eyshes fluttered, with clear eyes that were enchanting. Keh suddenly bent down and kissed her soft lips. "Time to keep the promise."


    Ophelia ced her hands on his shoulders and leaned her body back a bit. "You''ve got to show me around, right?"


    She thought, ''Doing this kind of thing in broad daylight? Besides, there are so many people here, way more than at Rosewood Manor.''


    At that moment, there was a sound from downstairs.


    "Is Mr. Sinir back?" A capable female voice rang out from downstairs.


    Ophelia had a sharp hearing, which allowed her to clearly catch the conversation even with a floor separating them.


    "Someone''s looking for you." Hearing footsteps approaching the stairs, Ophelia nudged the man in front of her.


    hers, and as he uttered those words, they brushed against her lips.


    "Hmm, so what?" Keh''s thin lips were close


    "And it''s a woman," added Ophelia.


    "So?" Keh grinned. "Jealous?"


    She wasn''t a child. There was no need to be jealous.


    But... she could afford a little yful mischief. She was curious to see Keh flustered.


    They stayed in that position until a woman came up the stairs.


    The woman wore a sleek all-ck outfit, tall and slender with short blonde hair, looking very capable.


    Upon seeing their position, she showed surprise in her eyes for just a moment before returning to normal.


    Her gaze instinctively overlooked the person pressed against the wall.


    "Mr. Sinir, I have something to report to you," said the woman.


    "Speak," Keh uttered one word coldly.


    The woman paused for a moment, her gaze resting on Ophelia.


    "If I''m in the way, can you tell me where the bedroom is? I''d like to take a rest," said Ophelia.


    Keh''s smile grew wider at the word, thinking, ''Bedroom? Is the little one getting anxious?''


    He turned his head and instructed "Ik


    about itter." His gaze remained fixed on Ophelia,


    1:48 Fri, Nov 15


    3


    78%


    The woman lifted her gaze again, her eyes once more on Ophelia. This time, Ophelia calmly lifted her eyes, meeting the woman''s gaze,


    A hint of amazement shed in the woman''s eyes. She slightly curled her lips, meeting Ophelia''s gaze directly, not avoiding


    1. it.


    Some people were destined to confirm their rtionship with just one nce.


    The woman nodded respectfully to Keh, turned around, and went downstairs.


    After the woman left, Ophelia calmly said, "You have women here?"


    The tone was dripping with jealousy.


    "Yeah, just one," Keh nodded.


    That exnation was no better than none. Saying just one made it sound like this person was really special.


    "A woman who can stay by your side must be really capable, right?" Ophelia had a cunning smile on her lips, but her eyes showed no emotion.


    Keh said, "When I said just one, I meant the maid downstairs. The women here are just like men."


    Ophelia was left speechless.


    But as a woman herself, she could feel the hostility from that woman just now. It was clearly visible in her eyes.


    She pushed Keh aside and explored the ce on her own.


    Strangely, it felt somewhat familiar. "Isn''t this just like theyout of Rosewood Manor?"


    Apart from the different exteriors, the internal structure, like the bedroom and study, were perfectly the same in corresponding locations.


    This sense of familiarity actually put her in a good mood.


    At that moment, a man''s voice came from the front yard. "Keh! Mr. Sinir? You''re back!"


    They stood by the floor-to-ceiling window and looked down, seeing a man in a ck coat stride in.


    The man rushed up


    the stairs with urgency.


    The two of them left the room.


    The man asked, "Didn''t you say you were going to bring your kid back?"


    They heard a voice before seeing the man.


    The man''s eyes sparkled with mirth. Despite his stern, chiseled features, his expression was teasingly yful, and his mature voice belied the innocence in his dark eyes, as pure as that of a teenager''s. "Your child is this big already?" He licked his lips. "Keh, seriously? How old were you when you... How could you have such a grown-up child? You..."


    ''What a beast!?'' the man thought.


    As he spoke, the man reached out, just about to cup Ophelia''s cheeks with both hands, but was pushed away by Keh. "You''re seeking death!" Keh said angrily.


    78%


    0


    "Let me see my little niece! Today is Christmas Eve in Heloria, and I''ve brought a gift!" With that, he pulled out a gift from his coat pocket.


    To be precise, it was a stack of bills wrapped in gift paper.


    Ophelia was rendered speechless.


    ''Is this guy trying to be funny?'' she wondered.

 Jilted Bride 135

    "Honey, would you like to introduce us?" If she didn''t clear this up soon, the misunderstanding would get worse.


    The man in front of her might only be six or seven years older; he definitely didn''t want to lower her seniority for no


    reason.


    "Honey?" The man''s expression was even more shocked as he blinked his eyes. "Keh, what are you doing? How old is this girl? And you''re going for her? Hey, girl, if you''re being forced, just blink at me!" Ophelia was speechless again and looked to Keh for help..


    Keh exined, "This is the one who got his brain treated by Ronin. And he slept for a year and a half, even worse than Scott. What do you think?"


    Ophelia thought, ''Is it certain he''s been treated and came out alright?"


    Ophelia patiently introduced herself, "Hello, I''m Keh''s wife. My name is Ophelia, and I''m... well, I''m an adult." Her tone almost sounded like talking to a child.


    Hearing Ophelia beside him introduce herself in such a way, Keh couldn''t help but smile. He lifted his chin a bit, and even the person in front of him didn''t seem so foolish anymore


    Noah also introduced himself to Ophelia, "Oh, I see! Nice to meet you. Hi, I''m Noah. N, O, A, H. Noah!"


    Ophelia twitched the corner of her mouth, amused and thankful for his exnation. Otherwise, she would have forgotten what the letters of the alphabet looked like.


    Just then, the phone in her pocket started ringing with a video call alert. The time on the phone showed 12:01 AM, exactly when the New Year''s bells chimed in Heloria.


    "I need to take a video call." She gave Noah a nod and turned back to her room.


    She answered the call, and a chubby-cheeked little face appeared on the screen. "Happy New Year, Ophelia!"


    Wyatt''s sweet voice rang out, still with a tone of youthful innocence. His long eyshes framedrge, grape-like eyes, and his cheeks were so chubby they seemed to beg for a pinch even through the screen. Ophelia said happily, "Happy New Year, Wyatt! I''ll give you a present when I get back. Where''s your mom?"


    Wyatt swiveled the camera around to face Chloe. Chloe walked out from the open kitchen, her face lighting up genuine joy when she saw Ophelia. "Happy New Year, Elia!"


    with


    Ophelia replied, "Happy New Year, Chloe."


    Wyatt''s little face was half visible on the screen, with Chloe sitting beside him. Chloe asked, "Has Scott arranged everything?"


    Ophelia said, "Yeah, everything''s ready."


    "Ophelia, where''s Ken?" Wyatt tilted his head, sounding like a little adult.


    She knew that by "Ken" Wyatt meant Keh. The little guy had only met him once but already remembered.


    Ophelia asked, "Ken''s outside. Do you want to wish him a happy new year?"


    Wyatt pouted as if deciding whether he should or shouldn''t, then gave a shy smile.


    Ophelia stuck her head out of the room, holding her phone. She nced around. "Kenny, could youe here for a


    moment?"


    Hearing Ophelia call him, Keh immediately got up from the guest area and walked over. Right behind him was Noah. Ophelia took Keh''s arm and held up her phone. Wyatt said on the other hand of the phone, "Happy New Year, Ken." Keh''s pupils slightly widened, his sharp brows raised. "Happy New Year, Wyatt."


    His face didn''t show much emotion, but his tone was incredibly gentle. It was the first time Ophelia heard him speak so gently to someone other than herself.


    For some reason, she suddenly had an idea. When they got back, she wanted to bring Wyatt to Rosewood Manor for a few days, to let Keh feel what it''s like to be a father.


    Maybe then he wouldn''t be so against the idea of having a baby with her.


    "Wow, you guys already have such a grown-up kid?" Noah leaned in, his face almost touching the screen.


    On the phone, on the big screen, Wyatt tilted his head and blinked those big eyes, while on the small screen, Noah tilted his head in the opposite direction, widening his eyes.


    The two were on the phone, staring at each other, eyes locked in silence. Suddenly, it indicated that the other person had hung up.


    "Why did they hang up?" Ophelia put her phone away.


    Keh nced with mild disdain at Noah who had been hogging the spotlight. "Probably Wyatt''s got freaked out by Noah. Looking that ugly, he shouldn''t be scaring people around here."


    Noah didn''t argue; in fact, he didn''t have much of a viewpoint on appearances. "Was that little kid just now your child?" "No, he''s my friend''s kid." She wished she could have a child as well-behaved as Wyatt.


    Keh reverted to his usual distant demeanor, giving Noah a cold stare. "It''s time for you to leave."


    Noah made an OK gesture, as the important matters had already been discussed. With his hands tucked into the pockets of his ck coat, he casually strolled out of the vi.


    In the chat window, Chloe sent a message to Ophelia. [Wyatt is sleepy, off to bed now. Elia, wishing you happiness in the New Year!]


    [Thank you, Chloe!] After replying Chloe, Ophelia''s WhatsApp interface was flooded with messages wishing a Happy New Year.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Marilyn: [Happy New Year, Ophelia!]


    William: [Happy New Year! Best wishes to you and your family for a year filled with sess and joy. By Director William Martin]


    ''Is this a mass message?'' Ophelia thought to herself with a smile and sent back a New Year emoji to William.


    Kevin: [Happy New Year, Elia!]


    James: [Happy New Year, littledy.] His message was along with a photo of him and Kevin having New Year''s Eve dinner together.


    Ophelia thought, "These two? Celebrating New Year together? The photo really has the vibe of two old folks staying at home. Bethany: [Sweetheart, Happy New Year!]


    The next moment, the chat window was flooded with memes, one every two seconds... and still counting.


    Bethany, [I don''t miss you enough with these memes, and I''ll have a big hug ready for you when youe home.]


    Rex: [Happy New Year, little fairy!] Attached was a selfie of him in front of a mirror, his charming eyes shining.


    A littleter, he sent over a video. Ophelia clicked on it, revealing a performance from his acting ss. His acting was a bit over-the-top, but it was finally watchablepared to before. Ophelia: [Great job, keep it up!]


    Rex sent her a super happy emoji.


    Jackson sent a memo to Ophelia. [Elia, Happy New Year!] Howard sent a memo to Ophelia. [Elia, Happy New Year!]


    ra sent a memo to Ophelia. [Elia, Happy New Year!]


    Fiy sent a memo to Ophelia. [Elia, Happy New Year!]


    Fiy then sent a memo to Ophelia again. [That one''s from Theo, and this one''s from me.]


    Bethany sent a memo to Ophelia. [I managed to send memes!]


    For a moment, her WhatsApp was filled with various Happy New Year memes. She felt a bit overwhelmed by all the attention.


    Suddenly, a bank notification came through her phone: [Your ount 6699 received a deposit of 27 million dors on January 1st. at 0:10 from "Heloria Bank.]


    Seeing the transfer, she looked up immediately at Keh and saw that he had just put his phone down.


    His smug look seemed to say, "The love I gave you way more than they did!"


    "So many people have sent me New Year''s wishes by memes, I am a little embarrassed."


    "Don''t be polite with them. As Keh''s wife, you have people lining up to curry favor with you."


    Keh leaned in close, his tall figure casting a shadow over her under the light. The next moment, his lips were near her ear. "Happy New Year, my dearest wife."

 Jilted Bride 136

    Keh''s voice was low and teasing. Ophelia blushed when he called her "my dearest wife."


    She thought, ''Keh is such a flirt! He is simply too charming


    Meanwhile, a Twitter notification buzzed on her phone. Ophelia nced down at it. [Sharon Campbell Thomas Collins Celebrating New Year Together Possibly Living Together.] Before she could open it, a video call from Sharon came through


    Keh had a yful glint in his eye, bent down, and kissed her lips, causing her hand to twitch and answer the call.


    "Elia, Happy New Year..." The callsted only two seconds before she immediately hung up, pressing her hands on Keh''s shoulders.


    Keh took the phone from her hand, tossed it onto the couch, wrapped his arm around her waist, and deepened the kiss.


    The switch on the wall flickered, and the dark curtains by therge window slowly closed automatically.


    The room turned pitch ck. In her view, she could only see Keh''s chiseled face, more deep-set and defined, like a dark lord reigning over the shadows.


    Keh said, "Focus, put your heart into it." Thest word was emphasized.


    Ophelia was speechless and Keh''s kiss came down like a tidal wave.


    As evening approached, Ophelia''s stomach was growling. "Keh, I''m hungry... so hungry..."


    "What do you want to eat?" His voice was low and enticing.


    "I want dumplings." During the New Year, it''s traditional to eat dumplings.


    "Okay." Keh got up and instructed the maid.


    Ophelia felt her eyelids getting heavier, and with the dim lighting, she gradually fell asleep.


    When she woke up again, it waspletely dark outside, and a few warm yellow nightlights were on in the room.


    She got up from the bed, feeling that the soreness in her waist and legs had mostly eased.


    If it weren''t for the different scenery outside the window, she might have thought she was at Rosewood Manor.


    Therge building outside was illuminated, and she could vaguely see some people practicing shooting and fighting in the


    arena.


    MA


    She walked out of the room but didn''t see Keh. On her way downstairs, she only came across a maid about the same age ¨¢s Lisa.


    The maid nodded respectfully to her. "Would you like to have dinner now?"


    After taking a nap, she wasn''t very hungry. "No need for now, where is Keh?"


    "Mr. Sinir is having a meeting in the main building. He mentioned that if you''re awake and want to wait to eat with him, you can walk around. The meeting will finish at ten."


    Keh really knew her well; he understood she wanted to wait to have dinner together.


    It was not even nine-thirty yet, so she definitely had time to look around and see where Keh lived.


    She changed into a turtleneck sweater and a ck and white striped tracksuit. The nights near the mountains were especially chilly, but she was already used to it from her previous stay at Rosewood Manor.


    She walked up to the front of the main building. Nearby, there was arge indoor facility, featuring an indoor shooting range and a closebat training area.


    A group of young people from around the world, wearing simr ck clothing, were training with nk faces.


    78%


    When they saw Ophelia walking by, they just nced up briefly before resuming their training, as if they were emotionless killing machines by nature.


    Every move they practiced was a deadly skill taught to her by Eric, with nearly every strike meant to be lethal.


    She nced around quickly but didn''t see Eric or Ray among them.


    "It''s dangerous over there, Ms. Spencer. It''s better not to go," came the voice of that short-haired woman from behind her.


    Ophelia halted, turned her head, a slight smile on her lips but her expression stayed indifferent and distant. "Thanks for the warning."


    "You''re wee." The woman walked right past her, her short hair partly tied up, exuding a cool yet elegant presence. Without looking, her hands expertly put together the machine gun.


    She turned her head slightly, her indifferent gazending on Ophelia. "Doesn''t Keh have your name tattooed on his chest?"


    Ophelia raised her eyebrows, sensing a definite challenge in that statement.


    It was as if she was saying, "Eknow everything, even about the tattoo on Keh''s body." And those words were quite unsettling.


    Still, Ophelia seemed unconcerned, her face calm as she put her hands in her tracksuit pockets. She slightly tilted her chin up, imitating Keh''s usual arrogant demeanor. "Yeah! Nice, isn''t it?" She thought, "Isn''t that something to be proud of?''


    The woman clearly didn''t expect such a response. She paused for a couple of seconds, her fingers slipping as she tried to assemble the gun, then quickly looked away to reassemble it properly.


    The woman wondered, ''Is she really indifferent, or just pretending? Isn''t she curious how I know? Does she even care about Keh at all?''


    After assembling the machine gun, the woman carried it one-handed and walked past Ophelia, saying, "Ms. Spencer, you''re pretty important to Keh, so maybe you should avoid ces like this. Your delicate features might get you hurt She almost outright said that Ophelia was just a pretty but useless decoration. Regardless, Ophelia did not mind much.


    The woman went to the shooting range, set up the machine gun, and fired. Her every shot hit right in the middle of the target.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    The men practicing nearby couldn''t resisting over to watch


    "Way to go, Mnie!"


    "Mnie, are you here to beat us again?"


    Ophelia nced over and admitted that Mnie was indeed impressive.


    To stand out among this group of men with superior physical skills and earn their admiration, her abilities must be exceptional.


    Ophelia was about to check out another area when Mnie suddenly got up and called out to her, "Ms. Spencer, want to join us? Anyway, Keh is still in a meeting and can''t be with you now."


    Mnie''s tone seemed polite, but it subtly emphasized that she was just a pretty essory who needed a man''spany.


    A man next to Mnie chuckled.


    tender flower. If she gets a scra Mnie, are you joking? Has this youngdy ever seen these things? She looks like a


    tender flower. If she gets a scratch, won''t she be crying to Keh tonight?"


    "Exactly, let''s not risk it, Mnie. What would we say to Keh if she gets hurt?"


    Mnie had a subtle smile on her lips. She never knew Keh liked this kind of woman. Besides having a nice face, she was useless, like a young high school girl. She definitely couldn''t be worthy of Keh.


    "I didn''t think it through. Forget it." Her eyes lightly swept over Ophelia as she turned to the person behind her and said. "Let''s practice some closebat."


    "Okay, I''ve been wanting to spar with you, Mnie." The group automatically ignored Ophelia and went to the fighting area.


    COMMENT


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    78%


    5

 Jilted Bride 137

    In the fighting arena, Mnie was up against two men-one named Roger and the other, Huson-who were twins that didn''t look alike. Both men were much taller than Mnie.


    True to her slim figure, Mnie moved as nimbly as a shadow, weaving smoothly between the two men.


    Ophelia watched with great interest from the sidelines. Eric had once told her that girls couldn''t match men in terms of strength; they needed to use their natural advantages and respond with skill and flexibility. Mnie had mastered this principle perfectly, using her agility to wear down the two men''s stamina.


    Finally, catching them off guard, she delivered a flying kick that brought both of them down.


    "Oh my gosh! Mnie, you''re incredible!"


    "No wonder you''re Keh''s right hand; no ordinary person could handle those moves."


    Mnie stepped forward and offered a hand, pulling both men up from the ground.


    "It''s only through sparring that you truly discover your strength, Roger said, brushing off the dust from his clothes.


    Mnie stood on the tform of the fighting ring, her eyes ncing again at Ophelia, a faint smirk on her lips and a hint of contempt in her eyes.


    Ophelia thought, ''Is this a challenge aimed at me?''


    Faced with such provocation, Ophelia didn''t care at all, acting as if nothing happened while she continued to wander around.


    Just then, a lean figure strolled in with his hands in his pockets, a lollipop between his teeth, and his long wolf-tail hair was even longer than before.


    He walked towards Ophelia, drawing curious nces from everyone around.


    Standing a few meters apart, Eric pulled a lollipop from his pocket and tossed it to her.


    The lollipop traced an arc through the air andnded perfectly in Ophelia''s hand.


    "Thanks!" She unwrapped it and popped it into her mouth, the green apple vor filling her taste buds-it was her favorite.


    "How''s your injury? Adjusting well here?" Ophelia twirled the candy stick, giving him a look over. Judging by his walking, he seemed almost fully recovered.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Healing up quickly. It''s been... nice here." Eric looked down, licking his upper lip before his gaze settled on her. "Happy New Year."


    "Happy New Year." Ophelia smiled warmly, her eyes crinkling at the corners. Her smile was contagious.


    Eric smiled too, showing a bit of his mischievous charm. "Thank you, Elia."


    They shared a nce, without any more words. However, to others, the scene looked quite unusual.


    "I knew it! How could someone enter the base without going through the selection? Must be due to connections!" said the man standing beside Mnie, codename Bighost.


    Bighost was a muscr guy with a tannedplexion, small eyes with single eyelids, and heavy dark circles beneath them. The tattoos on his head and neck made him appear even more intimidating.


    In the ring stood several big and burly men. Below the ring, two people, looking like high school students, were munching on lollipops.


    "Hey, neer! You''ve been at the guild for so long, but you haven''t gone on a single mission, right?" Bighost sneered. "Do you know what happens to useless folks like you here? There''s only one result, and that is..." Bighost made a throat-slitting gesture and grinned menacingly, his eyes filled with a chilling aura.


    "Bighost, don''t say that. Didn''t he manage to get close to the girl around Keh? Of course, Keh has to show some respect and let him have a meal ticket." The tone sounded like they were tossing a crust to a beggar. "Neer, why don''t youe up and spar? Stop acting like a wimp every day, and really, cut that long hair! It''s disgusting! Do you think you''re the second-ranked assassin BC?"


    Mnie stood quietly, listening to the mocking and challenging tone of these people.


    Her gaze was fixed on Ophelia. Although she was still leisurely sucking on her lollipop, it was obvious she was starting to get irritated.


    "Didn''t you say things were good here?" Ophelia shot Eric a cold nce. He couldn''t t

 Jilted Bride 138

    Bighost said, "Ms. Spencer, you might have some skills, but the members of the Death Guild are not to be underestimated. Let me have a little spar with you first..." "So much nonsense." Ophelia''s eyes sharpened, and as she lifted her eyelids, a glint of murderous intent shed in her


    The cold smirk on Bighost''s face was only halfway shown. The next moment, he took a heavy kick to the chest.


    His whole body staggered backward uncontrobly, hitting the iron fence with a loud ng.


    gaze.


    Bighost grabbed onto the iron fence with one hand and clutched his chest with the other, seemingly unable to believe that the girl in front of him delivered that kick.


    "Wasn''t that a bit sneaky of you, Ms. Spencer? Attacking while I wasn''t prepared?" The smile vanished from Bighost''s face, turning suddenly serious.


    Everyone assumed Bighost was caught off guard and looked at Ophelia with even more disdain.


    "Is your talking done? And still not ready? So... shall we begin now?" Once the words were spoken, Bighost stared intensely at the girl in front of him and charged at her, swinging his fist.


    At the same time, Roger and Huson also joined in the action. They did not go easy on her just because she was a girl; every move was a deadly technique.


    Ophelia performed a scissor kick, capturing one of the men, and turned her head to avoid another''s attack.


    With another over-the-shoulder throw, she used the man as a cushion as they tumbled to the ground. After subduing him, she immediately attacked another person.


    She shifted from defense to offense in just under thirty seconds.


    Ophelia relentlessly pressed forward, quickly dismantling their defenses, while Bighost tried to leverage his natural strength to strike her.


    But surprisingly, Ophelia in front of him, as agile as a snake, had an astonishing burst of power.


    Every time she attacked the other two directly, a simple sidekick sent him crashing back into the iron fence.


    This wasn''t a close fight at all, it was Ophelia totally overpowering and mocking them. If she had a sharp weapon right now, they would''ve been defeated countless times.


    The only thing visible on the ring was Ophelia''s graceful figure, controlling everything effortlessly.


    Mnie below the stage stared in disbelief, unable toprehend what was happening.


    After Ophelia easily kicked Bighost away for the second time, the color began to drain from Mnie''s face, leaving her looking stern and serious.


    Her hands were clenched tightly as she gritted her teeth, unaware of the metallic taste of blood in her mouth, her eyes fixed on Ophelia on the stage who effortlessly defeated the trio. She thought, ''How is that possible?''


    The fight''s noise had already grabbed the attention of everyone else in the venue.


    "He had no chance to fight back against her, right?"


    Sat,


    00


    3


    "It''s not just that! Even Roger and Huson were no match for her!


    "Oh my gosh! How can someone with such slender arms and legs have such powerful strength? No way!"


    "You think the woman who catches Keh''s eye is just an ordinary person?"


    "Well... no wonder she''s Keh''s woman."


    78%


    Even the seasoned veterans who usually dominated the training field were exchanging nces, unsure if they could dodge her attacks if they were the ones in the ring. +5


    Their eyes asionally drifted to Mnie, whose face was pale. This is the first time I''ve seen a woman who can fight better than Mnie!" someone whispered.


    "Not just that...pared to her, Mnie is... way behind."


    Hearing theirments, Mnie''s face turned dark, as if it was filled with dark clouds.


    She thought, ''Impossible! How can this girl have such amazing skills?''


    She had thought Ophelia was just a pretty face, but never expected...


    She could barely defeat the brothers Roger and Huson, while Bighost was stronger than her, and now this girl was thrashing them. She thought, ''Does this mean I''m not a match for this girl Mnie didn''t want to admit that, but the truth was right in front of her. No matter how much she didn''t want to believe it, it was undeniable.


    At that moment, Keh walked into the arena, with Ray and others by his side.


    Ray said just a moment ago how lively the training field was today, but when he saw who was in the ring, even his bushy beard was taken aback.


    Ever since he got kicked by Ophelia, his view of her hadpletely changed. He thought, ''Are these people asking for trouble?''


    In the ring, Bighost clutched his chest and coughed up another mouthful of blood. This time, he just copsed to the ground.


    Both Roger and Huson were badly injured. They might have just looked a bit sweaty, but they knew if Ophelia hadn''t held back, they''d probably have few intact ribs left.


    The moment everyone in the venue saw Keh arrive, they immediately made room for him, nodding respectfully as he passed by. "Mr. Sinir."


    Mnie quickly changed his expression, bowing slightly. "Mr. Sinir..."


    She caught sight of Keh''s furrowed brows and his unhappy expression as he walked straight toward the tform. From what she knew about Keh, he was definitely upset. Even though Ophelia was with Keh, he wouldn''t allow anyone to cause trouble at his base.


    Keh walked over, sighed, and seeing Ophelia having so much fun, his previously furrowed brows rxed, showing a hint of helplessness in his eyes.


    "Come here," he said. His voice was deep and smooth, like music to the ears.


    In an instant, the coldness in Ophelia''s eyes faded, and she stopped what she was doing.


    12:33 Sat, Nov 16 B.


    The three men who had been beaten up were relieved at the sight of Keh, as if they had seen a savior.


    Opheliazily tilted her head and walked towards Keh, blinking those innocent doe eyes at him as if to say, "I didn''t


    mean to."


    Keh wrapped his arms around her and steadily lifted her off the tform.


    When no one was watching, he whispered yfully in her ear, so only the two of them could hear, "Seems like you''ve still got plenty of strength, right?"


    She immediately lost her courage and thought she acted on impulse just now. As soon as he mentioned it, she felt pain in her arms and legs. "Keh, my hand, wrist, and arm are all hurting..." The room was in sudden silence.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    They thought, ''Want to check on the people you were fighting? You didn''t seem this delicate during the match.


    Keh gently ced her small hand in his palm and patiently massaged it. "Does it still hurt?"


    Ophelia shook her head, then nodded, looking soft and so different from before.


    The crowd was speechless.


    Mnie''s face turned pale instantly, her legs felt heavy as if filled with lead, frozen to the spot, unable to believe what she saw. Keh wasn''t like this be


    Ophelia said, "I''m hungry, Keh. Why did it take you so long to finish?"


    Everyone''s eyes widened. They thought that it was the first time anyone dared to speak to Keh in that tone.


    "I''ll take you to dinner first." Keh affectionately ruffled her hair, zipped up her jacket, held her small hand, and tucked it into his coat pocket. They left the arena together.


    Bighost in the ring inserted his fingers into the metal fence, struggled to stand up, and wiped the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand.


    He coughed and said, "That woman only knows some basic moves. I was just holding back because of Mr. Sinir. Did she really think she was that impressive?"

 Jilted Bride 139

    1


    Ray''s gazended on Bighost, and he spat out a few words, "Reckless fool."


    Bighost was taken aback, thinking he misheard, his small eyes suddenly widened as Ray pulled out a gun and pointed it at


    him.


    "Ray, y-you..." Bighost''s legs went weak, and he clung onto the metal, his body trembling as he shrank back.


    A thunderous bang reverberated through the air. The bullet hit Bighost''s arm, his face turned ghostly pale, and he fell heavily back onto the ring, with beads of sweat forming on his forehead.


    "This is just a warning." Ray put away his gun and loudly warned everyone. "From now on, if anyone disrespects Mrs. Sinir, your life will be on the line! However, you''ll be kicked out of the guild! Those who justid hands on Mrs. Sinir, go receive your punishment." Now everyone understood that Ray was a trusted confidant of Keh, and Ophelia was no mere decoration, not just any woman; she was "Mrs. Sinir".


    They were all extremely relieved that they hadn''t provoked like Bighost, or they would be the ones getting punished or shot right now.


    Mnie''s face became even grimmer, a burden weighing on his chest, and his hands clenched tightly.


    Ray nced at Eric, who was still calmly eating a lollipop, meeting his obsidian-like eyes. His stern expression softened. "Eric, how long are you going to keep pretending?"


    Ray approached Eric, cing a hand on his shoulder, his voice deep and resonant. "Let me introduce you all; this here is BC, ranked second in the assassin world! Officially joining the guild today."


    "BC?" Everyone''s eyes were on Eric. Just as they snapped out of their shock, they were rendered speechless again.


    They thought, ''BC is actually this kid who looks like he hasn''t even grown up yet?''


    No one alive had ever seen BC. Rather than being part of an organization like the guild, BC ranked second among assassins purely through his own abilities. His strength was not to be underestimated.


    The previously cocky Bighost clutched his wounded arm, staring unblinkingly at Eric, shrinking back in silent fear.


    After this, he''d never dare judge someone by their appearance again.


    Eric, with a lollipop in his mouth, nced sideways at Ray''s rough hand on his shoulder and then at the bearded guy, frowning with clear disdain.


    Ray dismissed it. "Eric, didn''t I just hit you twice before? Is it really worth holding a grudge? Want to hit me back?"


    "Sounds good!" At some point, Eric had sneakily taken Ray''s gun from his waist.


    The bullet swiftly loaded and the gun was aimed at Ray''s shoulder. Tension filled the air.


    The people around looked confused, while Ray''s face became serious. He nced down at the gun, his breathing quickened, yet he remainedposed.


    Ray thought, "Those two shots definitely need to be returned. His sharp, eagle-like eyes met the loyal eyes of the young


    man.


    One looked serious, with furrowed eyebrows and deep, rough wrinkles from years of frowning. The other was easygoing, with thezy and carefree demeanor typical of a teenage boy, a white scar cutting through the end of one of his eyebrows.


    1


    "Forget it, just remember you owe me two bullets," Eric said, tossing the gun back to him. He unwrapped a candy and put it into his mouth.


    With hands in his pockets, he casually strolled out of the venue.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ray let out a subtle breath. It might be better to give him those two bullets; otherwise, it always felt like there was a debt.


    In the dining room of the vi. Keh took off his coat and rolled up his shirt sleeves to his forearm, revealing part of his well-defined muscles. His long, nimble fingers held a fork and handed it to her. Ophelia took the fork and slightly raised her gaze, meeting Keh''s narrow, deep-set eyes.


    He squinted a bit, his high-bridged nose below, his lips moving in a reserved manner. "Aren''t you hot?"


    Besides having the heater on, the living room firece was also lit. She was still wearing a turtleneck sweater, and a thinyer of sweat was forming on her forehead.


    But there were still marks on her neck left by Keh. Ophelia pressed her lips together and red at Keh, clearly annoyed.


    She understood his intentionspletely. The marks on her neck were because she had nced at Eric when she arrived. Keh''s possessiveness was truly intense. Keh, with a mischievous smile on his lips, moved around her and helped her take off her coat. "I have some things to take care ofter."


    "Okay." She had already sensed it earlier-when he said he would eat with her first that he wasn''t done with work yet.


    "Tonight, I''ll make sure you sleep well." Keh said with a slight smile, his dark eyes full of her.


    Ophelia didn''t dare to respond, so she deliberately changed the subject. "Did you use your mom''sst name before?"


    His mother''s name was Grace Lawrence. She had heard Noah call him Keh Lawrence before, and initially thought she misheard. But upon reflection, it made sense. "Yeah, I changed it to run the family business after I returned to the country." Keh''s eyes darkened, as if he regretted that decision.


    Just then, a maid brought two tes of cooked dumplings to the dining table.


    Ophelia was already hungry, and the recent activity only increased her appetite. She picked up a dumpling and put it in her mouth.


    A strange texture filled her mouth-a curry beef vor. Her delicate eyebrows furrowed slightly, her little face scrunched up like a bun.


    Inside the white dumpling wrapper were big chunks of beef with sizable pieces of potato, carrot, and onion.


    The texture and taste were both strange. She missed her familiar chive and egg, shrimp, and celery and pork.


    She couldn''t get used to these strange dumplings. But she didn''t have a habit of wasting food, so she ate all the dumplings on her te.


    After dinner, Keh went back to the main building at the front to continue working. For a moment, she felt a bit lonely without Keh around.


    Even though tonight was New Year''s Eve in Mgia, there wasn''t a hint of the holiday spirit in this unfamiliar country.

 Jilted Bride 140

    Her eyes felt a momentary warmth as she turned her head to see the tall Keh standing right behind her.


    His ck leather shoes glistened under the fireworks, and the slim ck suit pants perfectly matched the sweater she had prepared for him.


    It was a gaudy burgundy sweater, but somehow, it looked exceptionally good on him.


    "What? Did you pack a men''s sweater in your suitcase for some other guy?" His words carried a clear threat-if she dared to say yes, that guy wouldn''t have a chance.


    "It''s for you." She just didn''t expect Keh to actually wear it..


    Keh took a few steps forward and tied the scarf around her neck.


    Under the fireworks, they stood facing each other, their eyes filled with the fireworks glow and with each other.


    Ophelia asked, "Does Mgia allow fireworks?"


    Keh frowned and thought, ''Is this really what she should be asking now?


    "Of course," replied Keh.


    "Okay." Ophelia replied.


    Just as her lips formed a pout, Keh bent down and captured them with his.


    Under the dazzling fireworks, he wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her closer to deepen the kiss and savoring her


    essence.


    *****


    The next day, even before dawn. In the gym, Mnie''s hands were wrapped in bandages sandbag. She kept thinking, ''I don''t believe it.''


    as


    she relentlessly punched the


    She joined the guild at a young age, being one of the rare girls who stayed. Every mission she undertook was A-ss. She thought, ''How can I not measure up to her? How can it be?''


    She practiced fighting against the air alone until she waspletely exhausted, her hair drenched with sweat, yet she refused to stop.


    Probably due to the jetg, Ophelia found it hard to fall asleep early.


    When she went downstairs to get some water, she noticed the lights were still on in the gym and saw a tall, lean figure practicing strikes repeatedly.


    She threw on a jacket and walked into the gym alone.


    Mnie keenly sensed being watched, gradually halting her movements. Seeing it was Ophelia, she awkwardly looked away.


    "Practicing this early, without warming up your muscles properly, makes it easy to get injured." Ophelia mentioned casually, though she actually quite admired Mnie.


    Mnie remained silent. The next second, as she jumped off the ring, a sudden snap echoed in the spacious gym. Mnie twisted her ankle, and the sharp pain almost made her lose bnce. 1/3


    12:33 Sat,


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow, wondering if her words had jinxed Mnie.


    Mnie still kept quiet, walking normally to grab some water and drink it, though her face turned slightly pale.


    0%


    curious about how I knew Keh has a tattoo on his chest?" Mnie looked at her as she screwed the back "Aren''t


    you on the bottle.


    "If I''m curious, will you tell me?" Ophelia replied, her expression indifferent.


    cap


    Mnie squinted slightly, unable to read her. "You don''t love Keh at all," she said with certainty.


    Opheliaughed casually. "Whether I love or not is my own business, and no need to prove


    it


    to anyone


    else."


    you


    Mnie looked at the person in front of them, eyes filled with mixed emotions. "Do you think just because Keh loves you, you can act fearlessly?" "What else would I do?" Ophelia replied.


    Ophelia thought, ''Isn''t there a song lyric that says those who are favored act fearlessly?''


    "You..." Mnie was speechless. The bottle in her hand was crushed, and she watched as Ophelia walked over to the shooting


    range.


    She expertly assembled the machine gun and, once ready, aimed at a target over a hundred meters away shooting.


    With three shots, she barely hit the bullseye.


    Mnie sneered disapprovingly. "Looks like shooting isn''t your strong suit."


    and started


    Ophelia asked, "Is this a rifle? It''s my first time using this type of gun."


    Mnie frowned. "Who are you trying to fool? You can even put it together; how could this be


    your first time?"


    "I watched you put it together yesterday."


    Mnie was taken aback by her words. She thought, ''How can someone learn to assemble


    it just by watching once?''


    She remembered that the first time she shot a rifle, she couldn''t even hit the third ring. She thought Ophelia must be lying.


    Ophelia walked around the venue, taking a look at the areas she hadn''t visited yesterday. Soon, the people at the base gathered to begin their training.


    Ophelia went back to the vi at the rear, snuggling into Keh''s arms like a little squirrel.


    Keh held her tight, messing up her hair as he ruffled her head. She still carried the cool air of the mountain. "Where did you go?"


    "Just looking around. When are we going back?" She was already missing Lisa''s dumplings.


    "If you had to live here in the future, would you get used to it? I''m not nning to stay with the Sinir family for too long." Ophelia stared at him, wondering if he felt the same way. She thought, ''Has he alsopleted his revenge?'' She remembered in her previous life, after Keh divorced her, he returned to Mgia, but at that time, she wasn''t aware of the Sinir family''s situation.


    Seeing her silent for a moment, Keh didn''t ask further. "Whenever you want to go back, you can go back. The decision is yours, my dear wife"


    12:33 Sat, Nov 16 B.


    @78%


    Keh''s deep voice carried a touch of morning huskiness, sensually whispering in her car. He held her closely, kissed her forehead, and said, "I want to introduce you to an elder today. Would you like toe?" Ophelia thought, ''Is he really asking for my opinion?'' In her memory, Keh was very decisive, rarely asking her opinion. So of course, she had to go. The elder he wanted to introduce her to was likely significant to him.


    She had heard from Lisa before that after his mother passed away, a friend of his mother took him abroad. He was probably taking her to meet this person.


    They got up, tidied up, had breakfast, and changed clothes.


    A burgundy knitted sweater revealed the white shih


    cor underneath, topped with a ck coat.


    They dressed almost the same; Keh was tall and straight, Ophelia slender and tall, perfectly matched when standing together.


    As they passed in front of the main building, they caught the attention of many people. They thought, ''Keh and Ophelia


    second. are such a great match!'' Mnie couldn''t take his eyes off them for even a


    This time, Keh drove himself with Ophelia in the passenger seat. As they drove out of the base, yesterday''s scene yed out before them again.


    "Should we go buy some things?" Ophelia thought they couldn''t visit the elders with nothing.


    "It''s all set." Keh thought she always had a lot to worry about.


    Keh drove with one hand while gently ruffling her hair with the other.


    On the way, he answered a call. A mature and steady woman''s voice came through the phone. "Where are youBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Keh checked the time. About forty minutes away."


    Forty minutester, the car drove into the estate. Compared to Keh''s ce, this one made her feel homier.


    now?"


    As soon as Ophelia got out of the car, she noticed the difference in temperature; it was definitely warmer here. Keh took a few gifts out of the trunk, holding them with one hand while grasping Ophelia''s small hand with the other. Together, they walked into the vi.

 Jilted Bride 141

    Chapter 141 878%


    Inside the vi, the d¨¦cor was in a white Eurasian style. A crystal chandelier hung down from the second floor, and on one cream-colored wall, there was a massive oil painting.


    Opposite, a firece was set in, bright.


    "unlight streaming in through the two-story-high ss windows, making it warm and


    "Mr. Keh, you''re back." The housekeeper stepped forward to take the items from Keh''s hands, but when she saw Ophelia beside him, her previously smiling face froze. Her gaze shifted nervously towards the living room. Ophelia clearly sensed that this person wasn''t very weing. Her eyes followed the housekeeper''s gaze towards the living


    room.


    On the couch sat a mature, elegant woman who must have been over forty, yet her well-maintained appearance made her look barely thirty. Her delicate makeup and familiar features bore a resemnce to Keh''s mother. On the way here, she learned that this so-called elder wasn''t just a friend of Keh''s mother but her biological sister, Ivy.


    Ivy lifted her head, her proud brows slightly furrowed. Her bright, sharp eyes fell on Ophelia like daggers, making her feel very ufortable. "Kenny, you''re back."


    A young girl sitting across from Ivy stood up and turned her head. Her voice was soft and gentle, her eyes sparkling with admiration for Keh, her smile warm and gracious.


    She wore an off-white dress, her long hair draped over one shoulder, exuding an air of intelligence and kindness that immediately brought to mind the phrase "first love."


    Ophelia felt Keh''s grip on her hand tighten slightly, and an invisible pressure emanated from him. The cold atmosphere in the room was like a chilly wind, sending shivers down her spine.


    The girl''s eyes lingered on Keh for a moment, then gradually shifted to Ophelia, with a sh of amazement in her eyes,


    With their outfits matched like that, no one would doubt they were a couple.


    "You''re Kenny''s girlfriend, right? Hello, pleasee in," the girl said with a friendly smile.


    Ophelia returned a polite smile. Keh turned his head slightly, looked down at her, and whispered in her ear, "Just say hi and let''s go."


    "Alright." She sensed that the atmosphere in the room had be a bit tense with her arrival.


    "Ivy, this is my wife, Ophelia Sinir." Keh introduced.


    When Keh said the words "my wife," the girl''s expression momentarily froze, almost imperceptibly.


    "Hello, Ivy." Ophelia said.


    From the moment Ophelia entered the room, Ivy only nced at her once and hadn''t looked her directly in the eyes again.


    "Phoebe, sit down for now." Ivy smiled at Phoebe, stood up and walked over to Keh. "Kenny,e upstairs with me, and -let''s have a private conversation."


    "Say whatever you need to say right here." Keh''s tone was icy, showing no deference to Ivy as an elder and leaving no room for negotiation.


    Ivy''s expression darkened, and she reluctantly looked at Ophelia beside him.


    12.35


    Sat, N


    3


    At this moment, someone sensible would have offered some advice. However, Ophelia just stood there without saying a word.


    Ivy asked, "Kenny, are you sure you want me to say this in front of this Miss?"


    8%


    "Do as you please, whatever makes you happy." Keh lowered his gaze to her, his long, almond-shaped eyes covered with a frostyyer.


    The atmosphere in the living room gradually became tense and heavy. Ivy began to look a bit uneasy, and at that moment, Phoebe, with a knowing look, spoke up, "Ms. Spencer, how about we take a walk in the back garden?" didn''t


    Ophelia nced up at Keh. He say anything, nor did he loosen his grip on her hand even slightly.


    "No." Ophelia replied casually, uttering just one word.


    Phoebe''s smiling lips instantly froze. She hadn''t expected that this seemingly innocent and harmless girl would speak so sharply, somewhat like Keh''s personality.


    Ivy chuckled softly. "Is this the person you brought back? No manners at all."


    Keh said, "My wife isn''t for others to judge. I came here today to let you know I have a wife, so there''s no use wasting your effort anymore."


    After speaking, Keh gave Phoebe a quick nce, holding Ophelia''s hand as he turned to leave.


    "Kenny! Stop right there!" Ivy hurried to block their path.


    She let out a slight sigh. "Are you really going to speak to me like this, just for a woman? Don''t forget, without me, you wouldn''t be where you are today."


    After she finished speaking, Ivy''s tone softened a lot. She said, "Now that you''ve avenged the Sinir family, it''s time to think about the future. I''veid out the path for you.


    "All you


    need to do is keep walking on the road I''ve paved, and you can bring down Victor Sinir! Make him regret ever abandoning you and your mother."


    ''Victor Sinir? Keh''s father?'' Ophelia thought to herself and waspletely confused.


    Ivy said, "Kenny, don''t you want to avenge your mother? Have you forgotten how your mother died? How she struggled through those nine years? Kenny, only by following the path I''ve paved for you, can you avenge your mother!"


    As she spoke, Ivy''s eyes gradually went wild. She stared intently at Keh. "Kenny, Phoebe is your true choice. The woman by your side can''t help you at all. The Davidson family can help you. Listen to me because I''ll never harm you." These words, repeated over and over, seemed like brainwashing With that wild look in her eyes, anyone who didn''t know better might have thought she was hypnotizing Keh.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Keh looked into Ivy''s familiar gaze, and an overwhelming hatred surged uncontrobly within him. Through countless dark days and nights, he hated Victor, wishing he could kill him.


    Ophelia could clearly feel Keh''s grip on her hand tightening bit by bit. He was using so much force that she could even sense him trembling involuntarily, beads of sweat forming on his forehead, with a fierce look in his eyes. She shook his arm gently. "Keh? Keh!"


    It was the first time she''d seen Keh like this, and her heart instantly felt a pang.


    She was curious about what Ivy had done to Keh to cause him to lose control with just a few words.


    12:33 Sat, Nov 16 B.


    She stood in front of Keh, her eyes clear and filled with an intimidating coldness.


    She said, "Ms. Lawrence, no matter who you are, you have no right to decide someone else''s life. Kenny''s life is his own; it concerns no one else and doesn''t need anyone''s interference."


    Ivy sneered, ring at the you


    girl in front of her. "Shut up, you know nothing!"


    Ivy''s wild look waspletely unlike Keh''s mother. Grace''s expression was pure and clean, with eyes as clear as water, giving the impression of a gentle and kind woman at first nce But Ivy in front of her had eyes filled with nothing but hatred.

 Jilted Bride 142

    0


    12:33 Sat,


    Since he was 10, Keh had been around such a woman, who must have sown countless seeds of hatred in him.


    No wonder Keh''s methods were sometimes so ruthless and savage, as if he turned into apletely different person.


    Ivy said, "Kenny, listen to me, I won''t hurt you. You need to avenge your mother''s suffering. Do you know what she gave up for that heartless man? Kenny..." Ophelia said to Keh, "Keh, can we go home?"


    Keh thought, ''Go home?'' The two words struck Keh''s heart deeply.


    Hearing the familiar voice, Keh''s chaotic thoughts began to calm. He lowered his gaze, his long eyes turning a deep red, making others feel a pang of sympathy.


    "Okay. Go home." Keh ced hisrge hand on Ophelia''s head, realizing he had lost control earlier, he quickly checked the hand in his palm.


    His heart tightened; the back of Ophelia''s slender, hand was flushed red from his grip.


    "It''s okay. Let''s go," Ophelia said steadily, as she took his distinct hand and led him away without looking back.


    "Kenny..." Ivy called out unwillingly from behind, her eyes wide open.


    Phoebe stepped forward. "Ivy, it seems some things just can''t be forced. I think it''s better to let it go."


    "Phoebe, you can''t give up on Kenny. Don''t you love him anymore?" Ivy said, holding her hand. "Phoebe, you grew up with Kenny. You''re more suitable for him than that woman and can help him more."- Phoebe watched as they drove away; she had liked Keh from the moment she first met him.


    He was shy, quiet, and didn''t like to interact with people. Whatever Ivy told him to do, he did.


    Later, even though his eyes were full of hatred, he''d always give her a gentle smile when he saw her.


    She had stayed by his side for over ten years, but in just over a year since he returned to that country, he already had someone else.


    Of course, she couldn''t just ept it. "Ivy, what should I do?"


    *****


    Ophelia was driving, while Keh sat silently in the passenger seat, gazing out the window.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    All these years, his sole aim had been to make the Sinir family pay, to make Victor suffer. But until...


    "Why don''t we head back to Heloria tonight?" Ophelia suggested steering the car with one hand, her fingers intertwined with the man beside her.


    Keh nced at Ophelia next to him, and ever since she came into his life, it was no longer defined by just that one purpose.


    "Alright." He tightened his grip on her hand and kissed the back of it softly.


    Evening, at the international airport. The two boarded the ne back home.


    "Wait, wait, wait! Hold on!" Just as the cabin door was about to close, a shadow swiftly dashed inside.


    This was Keh''s private jet; there shouldn''t be any other passengers.


    Ophelia looked back to see Noali in a ck coat, carrying an old-fashioned suitcase, talking with the flight attendant.


    "I know someone inside, really, Keh, Keh Sinir! I''m headed to Heloria too, could I catch a ride?" Noah''s voice was mature and husky, a kind of sexy low tone, yet his way of speaking was like an edgy teenager. On that usually aloof and cold face, there appeared a look of someone trying to get a deal, his ck eyes blinking cutely.


    Noah said to Ophelia, "Hey kid, tell your dad, oops, I mean your husband, to let mee along. I promise I''ll leave as soon as we get to Heloria and won''t be a bother."


    Ophelia was speechless. She looked at Keh. "Dad... oops! Honey, should we let him up?"


    "Tell him to shut up." Keh frowned, just hearing that goof''s voice irritated him. Sometimes he wondered if he should have just left his brain as it was.


    Ophelia nced at Noah. Noah pressed his lips together, nodded eagerly, and made a zipping gesture with his fingers before. quietly settling into the corner of the back row.


    The ne took off. Noah satfortably at the back, thinking that Keh couldn''t just toss him out mid-flight, so he started talking.


    "Hey, Miss, could I get a free drink?"


    "It''s too hot, could you turn down the air conditioning a bit?"


    "Got any good movies I can watch?"


    "Oh, thanks, thanks..."


    "Wow! This airne meal is really tasty, can I have another serving? And could you pack two more to-go for me before wend, please?" "Tasty! Keh, what do you think?"


    "Hey kid, I have a yogurt here. Want it? I don''t drink this stuff."


    "This yogurt tastes pretty good!"


    "Are you two not having your yogurts? If not, I''ll take them."


    The long flight and the dull cabin felt less dreary with Noah''s cheeky voice in the air.


    Ophelia watched as Noah sprawled out on the seat, curiosity piqued. "What was Noah like before he injured his head?"


    "Interested in other men, are you?" Keh looked down at her, his gaze returning to its usual state.


    She still preferred him like this, even with his strong possessiveness and jealousy, because this was his true self, not needing


    to hold back or be restrained around her.


    "Just curious, tell me about it." Ophelia grinned, since neither of them could sleep anyway.


    Keh pressed his lips together, staying silent, with a slight tilt of his chin.


    Seeing his proud expression, Ophelia got a bit annoyed. "Fine, don''t tell me. I''m not interested anyway."


    "His original name is Noah West. He''s brothers with Ronin and Adams West. The head of the West family is the president of Heloria, and before this, Noah was the heir." 878%


    Ophelia''s eyes widened, bright and doe-like, as she thought of countless possibilities, none as surprising as this one.


    The president was the highest political position in Helor¨ªa. She couldn''t resist ncing at Noah again. But her head was forced to turn back by Keh.


    Ophelia asked, "What about him now?"


    "He severed all ties with the West family a long time ago. I''m not sure why, and he doesn''t remember anything about it himself."


    Ophelia thought, ''How can he forget everything?''


    "A few years ago, he had an ident that caused a serious head injury. He was in aa for a year and a half, and after waking up from treatment, he couldn''t remember anything." Concern showed in Ophelia''s eyes. "Could Scott also..."


    "If Scott forgets everything, it might not be such a bad thing." Keh''s words were like a soothing balm, making her feel much more at ease.


    Just as she rxed, the sight of Keh''s stunningly handsome face made her heart skip a beat.


    Ophelia curled her lips. "What''s up?" She reached out to touch his cheek, finding it even softer than a girl''s skin.


    "In the future, would you prefer to live in Mgia or Denex?"


    She thought, ''Is he giving me a choice? Just the day before, he told me that we will be living in Mgia and to get used to it, and now he is letting me decide!''


    "As long as I''m with you, I can live anywhere, but I still prefer Denex." Because she still had some things she needed to finish there. Their lips gradually met. Suddenly, a long yawn came from behind, interrupting the two at the seat.


    "Keh, are we almost there?" Noah lifted the window cover, but it was pitch-ck outside, making it impossible to see anything-

 Jilted Bride 143

    Chapter


    143


    The ne soon touched down at the private airport in Denex and it was already seven in the evening.


    Keh held the hand of Ophelia beside him as they got off the ne, while Noah still slept soundly in his seat.


    The two walked right past him without waking him up. Just as they stepped out of the airport and hadn''t even gotten into the car yet, hurried footsteps could be heard from behind.


    Ophelia turned around to see Noah carrying two packaged airne meals in one hand and a few cans of strawberry yogurt in the other,ically using his armpit to hold a briefcase. The sight was both pitiful and amusing. Ophelia thought, ''Does he actually pack two airne meals?''


    Ophelia blinked her big eyes; she thought he was just making small talk with the flight attendant.


    Seeing her expression, Noah exined, "I have no choice because things are tough at home."


    Ophelia thought, ''Is it really that tough at his home? Given his previous status, should he really be struggling this much? Can''t even afford a meal?


    ''Yet the present he gave me before seemed quite expensive, didn''t it?''


    Noah asked, "Keh, it''s sote, and there probably aren''t any cars to Waston. Could you let me stay over for the night?" Noah''d gone too far. Keh cast him a cold nce. "I can arrange for someone to take you." Noah said, "Come on! I honestly don''t know how to get back. I don''t know why I lost my temper and cut ties with my family back then. You''ve been looking after me all these years. Our brotherly bond..."


    "Shut up!" Keh snapped, his face dark as though his frown could squash a fly.


    "Alright!" Noah promptly shut up, easily opened the passenger door, and got in. "Thanks for taking me in. You should get in too. It''s pretty cold outside." "Noah." The name was almost hissed out from between Keh''s clenched teeth, and his eyes were so cold and intense, they could almost drip ink. Ophelia said, "Well...whatever. It''s New Year''s, so let''s not have him wandering the streets. We''ll find him a hotelter and help him settle in." Noah thanked her and said, "Sweetheart, you''re so kind and good-hearted. Unlike your husband with all his bad habits! Here, have some yogurt." Noah happily lounged in the passenger seat and pulled out a can of yogurt from the bag, handing it to Ophelia.


    His hand was still mid-air when he received a scary re from Keh, and he awkwardly pulled his hand back.


    "Honey, I want a drink." Actually, she thought the yogurt on the ne was quite good too.


    Keh turned his head to look at Ophelia next to him. His tightly furrowed brows rxed a bit as he grabbed all the yogurts from Noah''s arms.


    Noah looked as if he was losing a limb. He thought, ''No way, at least leave me one, right?''


    Passing by the hotel near the airport, they initially intended to drop Noah off, but Noah in the passenger seat stubbornly pretended to be dead, refusing to move.


    With no other choice, they drove back to Rosewood Manor.


    Lisa, knowing they were returning today, had a big feast prepared as a make-up New Year''s dinner.


    Seeing the table loaded with dishes, Noah immediately tossed the two packed airne meals aside.


    After dinner, he sprawled on the living room sofa like he was boneless and fell asleep.


    80%


    "Does undergoing brain treatment make you really sleepy?" Ophelia wondered aloud. Noah had slept for hours on the ne, nodded off in the car, and now after eating, he''s out again. Ophelia didn''t know if it''s okay. Keh shot a disapproving nce at Noah on the sofa. He held the hand of Ophelia beside him, leading her upstairs.


    "I think you have a pretty high tolerance for him." Ophelia teased, following behind him.


    Keh said, "Well, you can''t argue with a fool." Ophelia thought his words indeed made sense.


    As soon as they entered the room, Keh pushed her against the wall.


    That familiar aura enveloped her; Keh stood against the light, hisrge shadow covering herpletely.


    Ophelia raised her eyes, her longshes casting a small shadow below them, her bright doe-like eyes fixed on Keh in front of her, not blinking even once.


    Ophelia asked, "So, can you tell me now what exactly happened to cause his injury?"


    Keh narrowed his phoenix-like eyes and lifted her chin with his defined fingers. "So interested in him, right?"


    Keh thought, ''Isn''t she afraid that I''ll get jealous?''


    "Not him, I''m interested in you." Ophelia''s eyes seemed to see right through anyone, with even the little tear mole at the corner of her eye appearing to reveal secrets.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    She thought, ''Keh isn''t the type to be unreasonably tolerant of anyone. There''s only one possibility: either he was involved when Noah had the ident, or he was there!'' "He was so badly injured... What about you?" Ophelia''s eyes were full of concern..


    "Aren''t I standing right in front of you?" Keh spread his hands, standing up slightly from his leaned position.


    Seeing Ophelia in front of him still looking at him doubtfully, he exhaled softly, wrapped an arm around her waist, sat on the couch beside them, and pulled her onto hisp. He said, "Indeed, just as you guessed. We were in the same ne crash. If it hadn''t been for that, I might havee back for


    you sooner.


    "At that time, Noah gave me thest parachute, which nearly cost him his life as the ne went down. He was lucky."


    Ophelia understood then. She thought, That''s why he''s so forgiving with Noah."


    "And what about you?" She was still a bit worried. Noah was badly hurt, but Keh was unscathed?


    "Aren''t I perfectly fine?" Keh raised an eyebrow, his lips curving into a cheeky smile. Ophelia was speechless, already knowing what he was going to say next.


    Why don''t you give me a checkup?" Keh suggested, taking her small hand in his.


    "I''m tired and want to sleep." Ophelia said, pulling away and heading to the bathroom.


    Keh watched her retreating figure, the curve of his lips gradually fading.


    80%


    Before she could close the bathroom door, Keh blocked it with one hand, his tall figure filling the doorway, making the spacious bathroom feel cramped.


    The deep folds at the corners of Keh''s eyes hinted at mystery, his eyes as a vortex and fixed intently on her.


    Steam rose in the bathroom, mingling with a heavy sense of love...


    0

 Jilted Bride 144

    The next day was the third day of the new year, and Ophelia had promised Bethany that she would visit Carnegie Vi today.


    At the dining table, Ophelia noticed that Noah didn''t seem to be in a hurry to leave and casually asked, "Weren''t you nning to go to Waston?"


    Waston was the capital of Heloria, about a thousand kilometers from Deltanex. It was not very close.


    Noah ignored her question, and Ophelia didn''t press him further.


    Kehpletely ignored him, acting as if he wasn''t even there. Ophelia, too, gradually became more epting of him.


    After breakfast, Noah took the initiative to help Lisa with the cleaning.


    He exined, "During such a festive time, I''m worried that if I go back home, I''ll just get kicked out again. Let me stay for a couple more days. I promise not to freeload. I''ll help you clean around here."


    At this moment, Mark hurried into Rosewood Manor. As soon as he walked in, he saw a tall, handsome man vacuuming the floor, wearing an apron.


    Mark recognized Noah and gave him a nod, not surprised by the scene. "Happy New Year, Mr. Sinir, Ms. Spencer." Mark said as he licked his lips.


    "Happy New Year." Ophelia responded. Usually, when Mark visited Rosewood Manor, he had something to report to Keh. Working even during the New Year, it''s really tough for him.


    While reporting, Mark didn''t avoid their presence. "Mr. Sinir, Ronan has been making a fuss at Sinir Manor, asking to see you!"


    "Then give him the body." Keh said indifferently. Ronan no longer poses any threat to him.


    "But, the people over at the Sinir family said Ronan has been secretly contacting the Davidson family recently."


    Hearing the name Davidson, Ophelia couldn''t help but think of Phoebe. "Is the Davidson family really that powerful?" Ophelia tilted her head and asked.


    Mark didn''t notice Keh''s expression and answered in a business-like tone, "The Davidson family is the leading underworld n in Yosk.


    "Their influence is strong on both sides of thew. Their arms business spans globally, but it has not yet entered Heloria.


    "I wonder if Ronan reached out to the Davidson family to help them break into the Heloria market or to use this chance to counter Mr. Sinir." Meeting Keh''s eyes, Mark suddenly realized he''d said too much.


    Ophelia had a look on her face that was hard to read; her pure, youthful face showed no emotion.


    She thought, ''So that is what Ivy wanted. No wonder she mentioned that only Phoebe could assist Keh. This family''s power is indeed immense.


    Keh held Ophelia''s hand in his, gently toying with her slender fingers. "Let him be. Send Patrick''s body over as a New Year''s gift from me. Whether he wants to continue dealings with the Davidson family at that point is another matter." Mark replied, "Yes."


    12:40 Sun, Nov 17 tiu.


    80%


    He thought in respect, ''It turns out Mr. Sinir had been nning to keep Patrick''s body all along. That''s Mr. Sinir''s style.


    With a smile on her lips, Ophelia withdrew her hand from Keh''s palm. "I''m going back to Carnegie Vi today. I''ll head upstairs and change first."


    She turned and went upstairs. Once she was back in her bedroom, she called Chloe. "Hey, Chloe, can you help me find out about the Davidson family?" "The Davidson family?"


    "Yeah, the Davidson family from Yosk." She wanted to learn more details about this family.


    "Why are you looking into the Davidsons?" By Chloe''s tone, it seemed like she knew about the Davidson family.


    Ophelia didn''t hide anything from Chloe. "Phoebe from the Davidson family is m


    You know, ''know your enemy, win the battle!""


    rival in love, so I want to check on her.


    She said it half-jokingly. Actually, she just wanted to know Phoebe status within the Davidson family.


    And she also wanted to know whom from the Davidson family had the best chance to be contacted by Ronan. Although she knew Keh could handle it, she still hoped to assist him. Chloe replied, "Alright."


    Ten minutester, most of the information about the Davidson family was sent to Ophelia''s phone.


    The details included the names and ages of every young member of the Davidson family, even their family tree. Chloe''s abilities were never questioned.


    By the time she went downstairs, Mark had already left.


    Keh and Noah were both sitting on the couch, holding game controllers, ying a two-yer shooter game. Therge TV screen disyed scenes of intense action and violence. Both men had a youthful vibe about them. As soon as Keh saw Opheliae downstairs, he tossed the controller aside and switched from hunched over the TV to loungingzily on the couch.


    The look on his face seemed to say, "I''m really mature and don''t enjoy these childish games."


    Ophelia asked, "I''m going to the Carnegie Vi. Do you want toe with me?"


    Keh replied, "I shouldn''t show too much respect to the Carnegie family."


    On the third day of the new year, the Carnegie Vi was bustling with visitors. If he went, those people might cling to him.


    "Alright, I''ll be back after lunch. I might need to visit Chloe in the afternoon. You two... have fun. Don''t fight." After she said this, Keh slightly furrowed his sharp brows.


    Ophelia''s eyes sparkled like stars, with her face full of gentle affection.


    Just after Ophelia left the vi, Keh immediately straightened up, resting his elbows on his knees and gripping the handle firmly. He looked totally disdainful towards his useless teammate.


    Seeing his childish behavior, Ophelia''s gaze was as tender as water. She felt an overwhelming urge to have his children. It seemed her n needed to begin.


    ****


    In Carnegie Vi. ra and Henry brought the family of three back to the Carnegie Vi. With Ophelia joining, the family


    was lively, and they took a New Year''s family photo before dinner.


    80%


    "Elia, you don''t realize how much your grandpa has been waiting for you toe back so we could take this family photo." Mrs. Carnegie, Bethany, said. Looking at the newly taken family portrait, everyone was really satisfied.


    Theo adjusted his reading sses, looked at the photos on the camera, and nodded in approval. "Good, very good. We Carnegie family should be all together." ra and Fiy exchanged nces and chose not to reply.


    After lunch, Ophelia spent some time ying chess with Theo. "No, no, I''m not ying this move. Ophelia, let me take it back one step."


    Ophelia replied, "Okay."


    Theo just put the threatened knight back to its original position and thought about moving another.


    Unexpectedly, Ophelia moved her rook directly in front of his king. "Checkmate!"Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Oh my, how did I lose again?"


    "Grandpa, I think there''s no way you could beat Ophelia." Rex joked, biting into an apple, wearing his red sweatshirt. Now calling her "Ophelia" was bing more and more natural to him. The next moment, Theo yfully tapped the back of his head. "It''s all because you''re messing around here. Otherwise, how could I lose focus?"


    Rex held his head and stuck out his tongue in mock frustration.


    Jackson and Howard also joined in watching, and the crowd kept growing.


    Ophelia finally let Theo win a game by holding back a little.


    "This one doesn''t count, Elia went easy on me. No need to go easy; back in. hint of sadness in his eyes. "Fine, forget it. Let''s start over!"


    day..." Just as he began, Theo stopped short, a


    Ophelia nced at the time. "Let''s call it a day for now. I''ll get you a chess guide next time, so you can practice. When Ie back, we''ll y again." Theo agreed and said, "Alright. Next time, I''ll show you how Grandpa wins."


    As Ophelia was leaving the Carnegie Vi, Henry stopped her on purpose.

 Jilted Bride 145

    80%


    Henry was the head of the Reyes family and also Rex''s father. It''s not just ra who''s responsible for Rex''s good looks.


    Even though Henry was already in his forties, he still radiated a sophisticated and mature aura.


    "Elia, here''s the jewelrypany I promised to give you earlier Henry handed over a clear file bag containing documents to change the person in charge, along with thepany''s various seals and financial records, giving them all to her. Ophelia almost forgot this was even a thing. "Thanks." She took it, and since there was nothing else, she intended to leave.


    "Aren''t you going to open it and check thepany''s financial status? Aren''t you worried I''m giving you an empty shell?" Henry joked in a rxed, fatherly tone.


    She wasn''t worried about that. She trusted Henry, and with Keh supporting her, the Reyes family wouldn''t do anything sneaky over something so minor.


    But it was a different story with the Huxley family. They made big promises at the family meeting, but now it''s all quiet.


    Henry said, "Oh, by the way, there''s a political and business banquet in Denex on the 5th. If you''re free, feel free to join. I''ll have ra send you an e-invitationter. And in the future, if you have any business issues, don''t hesitate to ask." "Alright, thanks in advance." Before leaving, Ophelia looked back at Theo.


    Theo said, "Jackson,e and y chess with me!"


    Jackson refused and said, "Never mind, I''m just a researcher, and I don''t know how to y chess. Howard, you keep Grandpapany."


    "Let Rex do it!" Howard shrugged off.


    Just as Rex was about to sit down opposite, Theo, with a disdainful look, said, "Go away! You terrible chess yer, I''m not ying with you!" The family''s lively atmosphere was very harmonious.


    After leaving Carnegie Vi, Ophelia nned to go borrow Wyatt from Chloe.


    She had already arranged with Chloe, and since it was the New Year''s holiday, she nned for Keh to experience fatherhood.


    On her way, she received a phone call. "Hello? Is this Ophelia? It''s Lucas, do you remember me?"


    It was that physically disabled little brother, Lucas Turner, who stood behind Felix Ashby. She had told him before that if anyone from the slums needed medicine, he could register and tell her, Ophelia asked, "Yeah, does someone need medicine?"


    "Yes, yes. L recently caught a cold, and Mrs. Leno and her adopted granddaughter both have a fever. It''s been days, and there''s still..."


    Lucas recited the list of medicines people needed, mostly fever reducers, cold medicines, and anti-inmmatory drugs. These were medicines that every household should have, but they were a luxury for people in the slums. The prices were simply too high, and they couldn''t afford them given their circumstances.


    She remembered that the Huxley family mainly dealt in pharmaceuticals and healthcare. "That''s quite a profitable business." She thought to herself.


    Ophelia drove to the pharmacy, realizing she''d have to dy borrowing Wyatt for a bit longer. Just likest time, she bought Chapter 145


    a lot of food and delivered it to the slums.


    Caleb and Barrett helped unload the food from the car, handing it over to Felix and Lucas for distribution.


    Felix and the others skillfully distributed the food and medicine to the elderly and children who had difficulty moving around.


    "Mrs. Sinir, you''re genuinely kind." Barrett said, trying to tter her.


    Ophelia gave Barrett a sidelong nce, a hint of a smile on her lips. "Did you forget about Ronald Noyes, the guy I threw into the sea before?" She thought, ''Using the word "kind" to praise me? Seriously?''


    Barrett coughed awkwardly. Meeting her eyes, he felt a chill run down his spine.


    45


    Ophelia leaned against the car door, an apple-vored lollipop in her mouth. She thought, ''In this life, I never intend to be a kind person!


    "Ophelia!" Felix called out, panting as he ran over.


    Ophelia turned towards the voice and saw Felix holding a little girl in his arms. The girl looked no older than five dark skin and a thin body. Her face was flushed red, with chapped, purplish lips. six, with


    "What happened?" Ophelia stepped forward, immediately taking off her coat to wrap the little girl tightly.


    Felix said, "Ophelia, Mrs. Leno... she''s not doing well..."


    Ophelia frowned and immediately instructed Caleb to take the little girl to the hospital, while Barrett stayed with her to check on Amy.


    As soon as they neared the slum, the air filled with the foul smell of rotting fish and shrimp.


    The foul odor almost made Barrett gag; even a tough guy like him found it difficult to handle. Yet, Ophelia seemed unaffected, showing no sign of distaste on her face.


    Felix led the way to a shabby shack made of shipping containers. Pulling aside the heavy cotton curtain revealed a dark, cramped space with a musty, moldy smell that filled the air.


    On some tattered nketsy an elderly woman with white hair a hunched body, and heavy eyelids lined with deep


    with her face full of wrinkles like ridges. grooves,


    "Mrs. Leno..." Felix bent down and carefully helped Amy sit up against the wooden wall.


    Amy''s eyelids fluttered as she tried to open them halfway. "Dora... please, save Dora... she''s just a child... don''t worry about me. I should have been gone a long time ago..." Ophelia stood by the door, silent, as if she had been frozen in ce. When her grandma passed away back then, she was also concerned about leaving Ophelia behind. Barrett said, "Mrs. Leno, don''t talk like that. We''re taking you to the hospital right now."


    Amy waved her hand. "No need, just save Dora... the child is the hope..."


    The older generation in the slums ced all their hopes in the children. With children, there was hope. They hoped that when the kids grew up, they would leave the slums and break free from its hold. With that, Amy let her hand fall weakly as her heavy eyelids slowly closed, taking her final breath.


    0


    12:41 Sun, Nov 17 ti w


    1$3 80%=


    Felix looked at Amy, lowered his head, and let out a long sigh. He regretted charging them protection fees back then.


    "Ophelia, let me handle the arrangements." Felix offered.


    Ophelia nodded, left some money behind, pulled down the cotton curtain, and turned to leave.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Just as she stepped out, Caleb called. Ophelia brought the phone to her ear, her gaze calm. "Mrs. Sinir, it was toote by the time the little girl got to the hospital. She is just so fragile..." Ophelia''s heart sank, but she kept a neutral expression, replied quietly, and hung up the phone.


    She didn''t want to mourn the fragility of life anymore. Things liked this happened every year in the slums.


    If it weren''t for Keh back then, she probably would have frozen to death here too.


    She stood on the half-copsed wall and gazed out. The sea was scattered with floating toxic waste, and the houses looked


    like ruins.


    In the distance, on the other side of a low hill, skyscrapers rose into the sky.


    She thought, ''Why can''t this ce be developed? What materials were really used for thend remation project back then?''

 Jilted Bride 146

    Just then, a little boy who had received some food walked up to her. "Miss, my grandma asked me to thank you..."


    One of the little boy''s sleeves was empty, and his cheeks were rosy. His smile was as bright as a blooming flower. Soon after, a little girl came over, her lips showing signs of a congenital cleft lip.


    In her flushed palms, she held a few beautiful seashells. "Thank you, Miss. I found these shells and I want to give them to you." These might be the best things she had to offer. Ophelia cherished the shells as she took them. "They''re lovely, thank you."


    Seeing her appreciation, the little girl was overjoyed, her blue eyes resembled a sky full of stars.


    Every child was like a little angel, yet the kids in the slums weren''t even wanted at orphanages.


    So, people needed to address the slum problem at its root. That way, the children and the elderly here could be taken care of. People here deserved fair treatment. People who worked hard to live shouldn''t end


    up like this.


    Ophelia gracefully jumped down from the wall and walked toward the beach. The closer she got, the stronger the smell of rotten fish and shrimp, much worse than any seafood market. She picked up an empty stic bottle and filled it with seawater.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    She recalled that during dinner at the Carnegie Vi today, Bethany mentioned that her eldest brother, Jackson, studied biology abroad and had already been epted into the Heloria Research Institute.


    She thought, ''Maybe I can ask him to test theponents of this water.


    "There''s a political and business dinner the day after tomorrow. It may be a good opportunity to find out about the permits and materials needed to develop this area.


    Just as Ophelia turned to leave, something suddenly lunged at her. On closer inspection, it was a person with missing limbs The individual, with wild hair, screamed, but when her mouth opened, her tongue had clearly been cut out. The scene was quite terrifying. The missing arm supported her as she climbed up and lunged at Ophelia again.


    Barrett was quick and kicked the person away as easily as shooing off a stray dog. "Asking for trouble!"


    The person fell backward, her loose hair flying back, revealing half of her face.


    Ophelia recognized her immediately. It was Heather.


    Heather cried out in pain and despair. She was unable to speak, but her eyes were filled with intense hatred and fear towards Ophelia.


    Her limbs were all cut off, and her tongue was removed. She was in a state worse than death, just a shell of a person. Keh surely knew how to torture people better than Ophelia did.


    Dying was simple; living liked a beast was the true suffering. There wasn''t a trace of sympathy in Ophelia''s eyes. In the end, everyone got what they deserved; her life and death were none of Ophelia''s business.


    She left the slums and returned to the downtown. Ophelia had arranged to meet Jackson to hand over the seawater she had


    Chapter 146-


    brought back from the slums, hoping he could help test it.


    Jackson said, "No problem at all, it''s a piece of cake. The research institute is on holiday right now, and myb isn''t set up yet, but I''ll get the test results for you as soon as possible."


    "Alright, thanks a lot, Jackson. But this water might contain toxic substances, so be careful."


    "Don''t worry." Jackson smiled slightly. The way his soft-spoken little sister Ophelia called him "Jackson" sounded so nice to him.


    By the time Ophelia returned to Rosewood Manor, it was already dark.


    Keh sat in the living room, going through some documents, asionally ncing at the clock. He thought, ''Well, she has spent the whole day out.


    "I''m back." Ophelia said.


    Keh turned his head, his gazending on Ophelia, but soon his attention shifted downward.


    At the doorway stood Ophelia holding the hand of a little toddler, just up to her thigh in height. Together, they made quite the picture.


    "Hey, Ken." Wyatt blinked his big, grape-like eyes. He wore a khaki children''s coat and waved at Keh with the seriousness of a little adult.


    Keh''s eyes showed a hint of surprise once more. "What are you doing here?" he asked, raising an eyebrow as he looked at Wyatt.


    Wyatt answered seriously, "I came to see how well you''re taking care of Ophelia." Saying this, Wyatt tilted his head to look up at Ophelia. "So far, so good. I guess I can trust Ophelia to you."


    Keh was speechless. He thought, ''Do I really need your reassurance, little guy?''


    Wyatt sighed and said, "Before you showed up, I had already made a deal with my mom that when I grew up, I would marry Ophelia."


    Ophelia was silent and she thought, ''Sweetie, that''s quite a grown-up thought!


    Keh''s face darkened, his sharp eyes slightly squinting as he walked over to Wyatt. Looking at Wyatt who barely reached his thigh, he gently flicked a finger at his forehead. "You think you can marry my woman? You little jerk!" Ophelia shot Keh a re. "What are you saying!"


    She thought, ''Is it really okay to say something like that to a five-year-old kid?"


    Wyatt seemed partly understanding, his gaze drifting through the patio windows to spot a towering Ferris wheel. "Wow, Ophelia, you even have an amusement park?"


    "Wanna y?" Ophelia crouched down and gently patted his little head.


    Chloe was usually worried about Wyatt getting hurt, so she rarely took him to crowded ces, let alone amusement parks. Wyatt nodded.


    *Ill take you out to y tomorrow, okay? It''s a littlete today. Let''s take a bath and go to sleep first, alright?" Ophelia''s voice was incredibly gentle.


    "Okay." Wyatt obediently nodded in agreement.


    57.80%@


    Keh frowned, his face darkening a few shades. "You''re not seriously going to bathe this little guy yourself, are you? Boys and girls shouldn''t be that close!"


    "But I''m just a kid! I don''t have a dad, so it''s always my mom who gives me baths." Wyatt wrapped his arms around Ophelia''s neck, his innocent words carrying a touch of sadness.


    Keh took a deep breath and, with patience, picked Wyatt up into his arms. "How about I find you a better ce to stay?"


    Somehow, Keh''s words sounded as persuasive as a wolf coaxing sheep. After he finished speaking, Keh then awkwardly carried him straight upstairs. Looking at their backs, there was a certain warmth in the scene. However, Keh wasn''t taking Wyatt back to their room.


    "Where are you taking him?" Ophelia followed them.


    Keh just smiled slightly and opened a guest room on the second floor.


    In the bathroom, the sound of water sshed loudly.


    Noah was singing while taking a shower. Hearing Noah''s voice, Ophelia paused at the doorway.


    "Noah, clean up this little one!" Keh ced Wyatt in the room and quickly shut the door without waiting for a response.


    "You asked Noah to bathe him?" Ophelia''s eyes widened. "That''s not okay! Last time during the video call, Noah scared Wyatt! Besides, Wyatt can''t get hurt..."


    "Ophelia, don''t worry. I can take care of myself, so don''t worry about me." Wyatt''s soft voice came through the door.


    Keh turned around, squinting, and looked straight at Ophelia in front of him, pinning her against the corridor wall. "Girl, don''t think I don''t know what you''re up to." 12:41 Sun, Nov

 Jilted Bride 147

    Ophelia blinked nervously. She thought, ''Does he find out so quickly?''


    She was about to admit it when Keh in front of her parted his thin lips, and a deep, pleasant voice echoed in her ear. "Trying to use that little one as an excuse to sleep separately from me? Don''t even think about it!" Ophelia pressed her lips together, smiling like a sly little fox. That wasn''t her intention at all. "Rx, the three of us can sleep together."


    Keh lifted his eyelids, a deep crease running from the inner to the outer corner of his eye, which was slightly upturned, exuding an air of confidence. "You''re giving me too much credit.


    He wasn''t generous enough to let someone trying to marry her share the bed with her.


    Ophelia was just about to speak when she heard a startled exmation from inside the room. "Holy crap!"


    Noah stood there with a white towel wrapped around his waist, a towel draped over his neck, his short ck hair messy and dripping, as his gaze moved down slowly. "Kid, w-what are you doing here?"


    Wyatt blinked his big eyes, which looked like ck grapes, and said seriously, "Hello, Uncle. First, I''m not a little kid, I''m Wyatt Stevens. Second, Ken asked you to help me with my bath.


    Then, being well-behaved, Wyatt took off his khaki trench coat, revealing a blue and white striped sweater.


    Noah asked, "Wait a minute, you want me to give you a bath?"Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Outside the door, Keh raised an eyebrow and warned the person inside, "Noah, take good care of the little guy. Don''t let him get hurt, or you''ll be sleeping on the streets tonight." Noah was surprised by Keh''s words.


    Ophelia was still uneasy about leaving Wyatt with Noah.


    Keh wrapped his arm around her waist. "Don''t worry, Noah will treat the little guy like royalty."


    Inside the room. Noah crouched down slightly. "Come on, little king... no, little buddy, let me get you ready for your bath."


    "Thank you, Uncle." Wyatt gave him a slight nod and took off his little blue and white sweater, revealing a canary yellow tank top underneath.


    He asked, "Uncle, could you help me take off my pants, please?"


    "Sure thing!" Noah was just about to help him when he suddenly stopped and asked. "Why do you call Keh by his name, but call me ''uncle''?"


    Wyatt replied without hesitation, "Because you look old! My mom told me that I should call men at your age as ''uncle." Wyatt scratched his head, thinking, ''Why is this strange uncle acting so weird? At his age, doesn''t he like to be called ''uncle''?'' Noah was so frustrated he almost choked. He was only two years older than Keh.


    But on second thought, if he had gotten married and had kids earlier, he could indeed have a child about Wyatt''s age now.


    In no time, Wyatt had stripped down, showing his chubby, round little belly.


    Noah was filling the tub while watching him. "Wow, I didn''t realize you were this chubby. Your parents must feed you really well." He slipped his hands under Wyatt''s arms and ced the little guy in the water.


    Wyatt''s eyes showed a hint of sadness. "I don''t have a dad."


    "Oh, I''m sorry! Did your dad pass away?"


    80%1


    Wyatt''s long eyshes fluttered. It was the first time someone had asked him such a question, and suddenly he didn''t know how to respond. His eyebrows furrowed slightly, and his little face showed aplex expression. "I guess... maybe he passed away?" He was not even sure what "pass away" meant.


    "Well... That''s pretty sad. Dying is one thing, but living and being abandoned by your family is just heartless! Do you get what I''m saying? Let''s change the subject. Do you have a girlfriend?" Wyatt frowned even deeper. "I do, and it''s Ophelia."


    "You''re really brave, daring topete with Keh for a girl!" Noah chatted with Wyatt like he was talking to an adult.


    The questions were all so weird. Wyatt sighed. "Uncle, why don''t you take a break?"


    Noahthered soap bubbles on himself with a bath sponge. "Kiddo, you''re really thoughtful. I''m not tired."


    "But I''m tired."


    Noah went into silence.


    After the bath, Ophelia had alreadyid out the little dinosaur pajamas she had bought for Wyatt on the bed.


    "Wow! These pajamas look amazing!" Before Wyatt could move forward, Noah was already holding them up against himself.


    Wyatt was speechless, thinking how difficult it was to manage this adult. So tired!


    So, after Wyatt changed into his pajamas, he fell asleep on Noah''s bed. Noah looked at the cute little dinosaur on the bed, a smile unknowingly appearing on his lips.


    The next morning, Ophelia, along with the maids of Rosewood Manor, covered all the sharp edges in the house with foam boards to ensure Wyatt wouldn''t bump into anything and get hurt. The weather was lovely. Ophelia took Wyatt to the yground at the back. Following them was Noah.


    Keh lifted Wyatt onto the carousel. It was Wyatt''s first time riding it, and he was full of eager anticipation. Noah joyfully hopped on as well.


    As the carousel started, Ophelia stood below with her phone, recording videos of Wyatt to send to Chloe.


    Keh had his arm around her shoulders, watching Wyatt with a loving gaze.


    Ophelia asked, "Honey, wouldn''t it be perfect if we had a child as obedient and cute as Wyatt someday, don''t you think?"


    Keh turned slightly, his shadowed figure appearing even taller. So, she had been waiting for him here. He pursed his lips, staying silent. Ophelia continued, "See how skillfully you held Wyatt just now? You''ll definitely be a great dad one day, right, Daddy?"


    Keh squinted his eyes, casting her a sidelong nce. Ophelia smiled mischievously, like a little fox.


    Keh let out a light scoff, bending down to give her a firm kiss on the lips. "Don''t think you can trick me."


    Ophelia was speechless, realizing she''d miscalcted.


    Just then, Wyatt circled back to where he started, happily waving at them. Ophelia quickly pushed Keh away, continuing 12:41 Sun, Nov 1/


    to take photos of Wyatt with her phone.


    0 ¡Á 80%


    But soon after, Noah, who was following them, also waved at them. In a sh, the scene went from heartwarming to creepy


    Ophelia spent the entire day ying with Wyatt, recording various videos but hadn''t managed to send them to Chloe before her phone ran out of battery.


    In the evening, as Ophelia was getting Wyatt ready for his bath, still in their clothes, a video call from Chloe came through.


    Seeing Wyatt, a smile appeared on Chloe''s face. "Have you been listening to Ophelia?"


    Wyatt nodded and followed Chloe''s instructions as he shared all the day''s events with her through the video call.


    Chloe said, "Good boy. Mommy wille pick you up tomorrow morning, so don''t trouble your sister."


    "Okay." Wyatt nodded his head.


    After the video call ended, Keh walked over and looked down at Wyatt.


    "It''s not appropriate for boys and girls to be too casual; there are ces Ophelia shouldn''t see. Let me help you with your


    bath." Keh said firmly. With that, he picked up Wyatt and took him into the bathroom.

 Jilted Bride 148

    Once Wyatt finished his bath, he changed into his Pikachu pajares. "Ophelia, I can''t sleep with you tonight. I''m going to find that uncle."


    Before Ophelia could react, Wyatt was already hugging his pillo and running downstairs.


    Just as she was about to get out of bed to check, Keh pulleder back onto the bed. His deep, husky voice had a seductive undertone as he whispered in her ear. "Ophelia, he can''t sleep with you, but I can." Ophelia anxiously nced towards the door, her hands pressing against Keh''s chest. "What did you tell Wyatt?"


    Seeing her nervous and worried expression, Keh teased. "Of course, it''s a guy''s talk."


    Ophelia was speechless and thought, ''Wyatt''s just a kid!


    "Don''t teach him bad habits!" Otherwise, she couldn''t exin it to Chloe,


    Keh''s lips curled into a mischievous smile. "Some things he''ll learn when he grows up."


    That one sentence left Opheliapletely unsure. She thought What on earth did this guy say?"


    From her expression, it was clear her thoughts weren''t exactly pure. He leaned down to capture her lips in a deep kiss. releasing her only when Ophelia''s breathing became rapid.


    just told him that I can only fall asleep holding you. Then, the little guy mocked and criticized me."


    "Really?"


    "What else?" Keh wrapped his arms around her from behind, pulled the nket over them, and whispered softly in her/


    ear. I can''t exactly tell him all the details***


    As he spoke, Ophelia felt the change in his body but didn''t dare make a sound since the door was still open.


    Keh''s kissesnded sofily and gradually as he pinned her beneath him.


    Suddenly, his vision went dark. He braced one hand firmly on the pillow while his other hand stopped moving.


    Ophelia ced her hands on Keh''s shoulders. "What''s wrong?"


    Two secondster, Keh tightly shut his eyes, and when he opened them again, his vision was clear. "I spent too long. giving the kid a bath, and the bathroom was too hot." "Come here." Keh said, wrapping his arm around her waist and easily shifting their positions.


    Ophelia pressed her hands against his strong chest, biting her lip hard, her cheeks flushed red. But even so, she couldn''t take control.


    The next morning, as Ophelia slowly made her way downstairs, supporting her back, Wyatt had already finished his -breakfast. She shot a fierce look at the refreshed Keh. Wyatt said, "Good morning, Ophelia!"


    "Good morning. Wyatt." Ophelia said, walking over to Wyatt and gently ruffling his little head.


    "It''s not that early, you know. Mommy''sing to pick me up soon." Wyatt was already dressed and sitting on the living


    room couch.


    Ophelia checked the time and realized it really wasn''t early anymore. She thought, ''Am I thest one to wake up? Oh wait, no, Noah still hasn''t woken up either!


    A few minutester, Chloe arrived at Rosewood Manor to pick up Wyatt.


    "Mommy!" Wyatt jumped off the couch and ran to the door, throwing himself into Chloe''s arms.


    Chloe held him and nced inside the house. Ophelia was carefully wrapping foam around all the sharp corners. "Sorry for all the trouble, Elia."


    Ophelia said, "Not at all, Wyatt has been such a good boy. By the way, I took a lot of pictures of him yesterday. I''ll send them to you soon. Chloe said, "Alright then, we''ll head out now."


    Ophelia had nned to see them off, but Chloe stopped her. "I cold outside, don''t catch a cold."


    "Goodbye, Ophelia!" Wyatt waved to Ophelia, and then waved inside at Keh. "Bye, Ken who never grows up!"


    ''Ken who never grows up? Ophelia thought and covered her mouth to hide augh. "Wyatt really minded Keh''s naive behavior.''/


    Just after stepping out, Wyatt turned back to look at the second floor. "Oh, gotta say goodbye to Uncle too."


    Never mind, he stayed upte telling me storiesst night. Let''s go, Mommy." Wyatt turned his head and tugged on Chloe''s hand, leaving the vi.


    In the guest room upstairs, Noah stretched as he walked out, wearing ck pajamas and sporting dark circles under his eyes. "Is that little kid leaving today?


    Noah bent down and looked down from the second floor. "Is the person picking him up that kid''s mom?" As he spoke, his heart suddenly beat faster.


    He immediately clutched his chest. "Oh no, I knew I shouldn''t have stayed upte. Now I''m in trouble. My heart''s acting up- I need to go back and get some more sleep"


    In front of the vi, Wyatt suddenly stopped and turned around. Not saying goodbye to that strange man made him feel like something was missing inside.


    Chloe also nced back with Wyatt but didn''t see anything. "What''s wrong?"


    Wyatt said, "It''s nothing, let''s go, mom."


    It was the annual political and business g in Denex. The event was being held on arge, highly private cruise ship. Originally, when Henry mentioned it to her, she didn''t n to attend this g, but she wanted to develop the slums. To obtain the rights to develop the slum area, she still needed approval from political figures.


    It was said that politics and business were inseparable, and many businesses that seed in the market needed to keep good rtions with the political world. Even the three major families in Denex were no exception.


    "Are you going to the banquet tonight?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh gave a cold snort. They didn''t invite me."


    11 45 Mon. Nov


    Ophelia was confused and thought. What? How could they not vite him?


    Keh seemed to have noticed Ophelia''s confusion and exined, ''If I show up, what fun would they have?


    With such an arrogant tone, she didn''t feel anything wrong at all saying it. The they he was talking about were probably those bigwigs in the political scene


    Indeed, if Keh went there, he would just be stealing their spotlight. The so-called political-business dinner was really just an event specifically organized for people in politics.


    "I''ll try toe back carly." Ophelia wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed his cheek.


    "Okay." Ophelia had the Carnegie family backing him, so there was nothing for him to worry about.


    Ophelia casually put on a white tuxedo evening gown, her hair tied back, looking very professional.


    It was seven o''clock in the evening. Among the people boarding the ship, Ophelia''s outfit was the most ordinary. Guests must show an invitation, otherwise they couldn''t enter.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    As Caleb and Barrett were about to enter with Ophelia, they were stopped by security. "Sorry, gentlemen, you can''t enter Barrett asked. "Why not? We need to protect Mrs. Sinir." The man said, "Our security is very tight, rest assured. No one can enter without


    t an invitation."


    The requirements inside were very strict; guests couldn''t bring anyone in. It was understandable, after all, many big names were attending this dinner, and of course their safety must be ensured. Reluctantly. Barrett and Caleb had to stay outside in the car. Before boarding, there were two rounds of security checks with very strict requirements.

 Jilted Bride 149

    The two-level banquet hall on the ship was opulent, filled with the scent of wealth. Even the burgundy and gold patterned. carpet was custom-made, worth tens of thousands per square meter. Ophelia surveyed the banquet hall and noticed that every man was apanied by a spouse or a date. Servers in white shirts and ck vests moved through the crowd, carrying trays She wore a simple white zer and slightly heeled shoes, with white wide-leg trousers that made her legs look longer.


    Her attire was quite understatedpared to the luxurious dresses around her, but her appearance ensured that she wouldn''t go unnoticed.


    Since earlier that year, the Carnegie family had hosted a family recognition event, causing many to immediately recognize her as Theo''s god-granddaughter.


    Everyone who attended the recognition event knew she was Keh''s wife, Keh himself had confirmed it.


    Additionally, Keh was nothing like the rumors imed; he was neither disabled nor close to death


    The background of the Sinir family wasplex, and people were afraid that one slight misstep could erase both themselves and their families.


    So, everyone kept Ophelia at a distance, and not even a fly dared buzz near her.


    After greeting the Carnegie and Reyes families. Ophelia turned around and saw a vaguely familiar figure.


    She hadn''t expected to see her here. About ten meters away, Phoebe wore a royal blue sequined gown, exuding a remarkably cool and noble aura.


    She was stunningly beautiful, with wless makeup, catching the eye of many men around the room.


    Phoebe''s gaze happened to meet hers in the air. Ophelia looked away, but Phoebe walked over with a smile as if seeing a long-lost friend. "Elia, can I call you that?"


    "Whatever," she said.


    Phoebe took a ss of champagne from a nearby waiter''s tray and handed it to her. Ophelia nced at the champagne in the ss, epted it politely but had no intention of drinking it


    "Didn''t Kennye with you for tonight''s dinner?" Phoebe looked around with a gentle, intelligent smile that felt like a breath of fresh spring air. Her appearance and demeanor were what most men would find appealing. Ophelia said, "No, I came alone."


    She thought, If you have something to say, just say it directly


    If it hadn''t been for Chloe''s investigation, she would never have believed that the innocent, charming, and approachable girl in front of her was the heiress of a Yosk mafia.


    They exchanged a nce, both wearing faint smiles without any extra emotion.


    s a kid, without a


    Phoebe said, "I''ll have to talk to him about it. How could he note with you! He''s just like when he was a clue about socializing with girls."


    Although Phoebe''s tone was reproachful towards Keh, it was undoubtedly a disy of her familiarity with him. Ophelia thought, ''So she is actually nning to retreat in order to advance. Since she''s so eager to talk, let''s just let her say it 11:46 Mon, Nov 18 DUB.


    Ophelia rested her chirrin-her hand, her smile was as harmless a kitten''s. So you guys knew each other when you were kids, right?"


    "Yeah! I was living in Mgia back then, and Ivy was my neighbor Kenny and I pretty much grew up together until he moved back here, and we didn''t see each other for over a year."


    "Wow, you guys were childhood sweethearts?" Ophelia looked like a fangirl listening to a celebrity story, without a hint of


    annoyance.


    There was a hint of scrutiny in Phoebe''s eyes. She thought, Is she pretending?"


    "Kind of But Elia, don''t get me wrong, Kenny and I..."


    "Can you tell me any embarrassing stories about Kennie when he was little? Ophelia interrupted her, looking intrigued.


    A flicker of surprise appeared in Phoebe''s eyes, and it took her a couple of seconds to realize that by "Kennie," she meant Keh.


    "Sure! I remember Kenny being so distant as a kid. The girls in our ss would ask me to give him choctes. For some reason, every time I handed them to Kenny, he''d get upset." It seemed like Keh had liked her from a young age, getting annoyed whenever she brought gifts from other girls. Her words had the typical vibe of a "first love that never dims." Ophelia raised her eyebrows slightly; if she hadn''t already known that Keh''s feelings for her were long-nned, she might have actually felt a hint of jealousy.


    Phoebe continued enthusiastically. "Don''t was so well-behaved when he was


    fooled by how mature Kenny looks now; deep down, he''s still just a big kid. He not a troublemaker like he is now."


    She wore a sweet smile as she excitedly recounted stories of her and Keh''s childhood. Ophelia listened with great interest.


    These stories were a mix of truth and exaggeration-while the incidents might be real, that didn''t stop Phoebe in front from twisting or purposefully misrepresenting them to mislead her. "Why don''t you take a sip of water, Ms. Davidson, before you continue?" She "considerately called over a waiter and got a ss of in water, handing it to Phoebe. "Thanks." Phoebe said as she sipped the water, the smile on her lips gradually fading. "Let me think about it when I get back home, and I''ll tell you more another time." "Sure!" Ophelia replied with a naive tone.


    Phoebe smile was almost gone after hearing her response.


    She thought. ''Is she truly unconcerned, or just pretending? If she is pretending, she is doing an incredibly convincing job!


    This made her wonder Ophelia''s love towards Keh.


    "So... how did you two get together?" Phoebe asked curiously.


    "Didn''t Kennie tell you?" Ophelia replied incredulously.


    She thought. Who just imed to be close with Keh?''


    Phoebe exchanged a nce with her and immediately understood something from her expression. Her heart suddenly tightened, and her fingers holding the ss turned slightly pale 11.46 Mon, Nov 18 DU


    ???100%Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    She had talked so muchrabout how wonderful their childhood Coendship was, and then she was asking how they got together. It was a bit like she was contradicting herself


    If their rtionship was truly that good, she should know what was happening between them. Phoebe was about to lose her


    smile.


    Just then, a middle-aged man''s voice came from behind them, lieving Phoebe''s awkwardness.


    "Ms. Davidson! Ms. Spencer is here tool" The speaker was Zayn, the eldest son of Michael and the current head of the family Zayn said. "Ms. Spencer, there seems to be a minor issue with the fashionpany my father promised you. When he made the promise, he didn''t know that nearly 30% of thepany''s shares had been sold to Ms. Davidson.


    "So, I can only offer you the remaining 30% of the shares that the Huxley family holds. You''ll need to discuss with Ms. Davidson about thepany''s management."


    Although Zayn was smiling as he spoke, there was a hint of scheining in his eyes that was hard to miss. There was no way he''d easily hand over apany that was about to go public from the Huxley family.


    Who cared who Keh was. Back in the day, the Sinir family was just another defeated rival of the Huxley family. They''d just be a bit more impressive in recent years. But the younger members of his family dare to bully their elders.


    "So, Mr. Zayn Huxley means that Elia and I will be running Huxley Fashion together in the future?" Phoebe quickly changed the topic and linked arms with Ophelia. "What a coincidence, Elia. I''m already a bit excited about it!"

 Jilted Bride 150

    Zayn said, "Yeah, since you both know each other and have such a good rtionship, I feel relieved handing Huxley Fashion over to you two in the future." Ophelia gave a slight smile, ncing at Zayn''s fake expression, like someone who had gotten the upper hand.


    She realized why the Huxley family had been dragging their feet the past few days. So that''s what it was.


    She nced again at Phoebe. And Phoebe didn''t mention the previous topic at all, acting as if nothing had happened.


    Zayn made a few more fake polite remarks. One after another, many big names from the political scene arrived in the banquet hall.


    These people were very conscious of their image, so they either brought their wives or their darling daughters, but never other femalepanions. "Mr. Louis, long time no see! You''re looking younger...


    "Mr. Duncan, didn''t expect you toe over personally..."


    Listening to these people exchange pleasantries, Ophelia got a basic understanding of their roles and followed Fiy to greet them one by one. Particrly, Trent Louis, the head of City Construction, was someone many real estate developers were eager to establish good rtions with. He was a middle-aged man in his forties and kept himself in good shapepared to other leaders with big stomachs in their fifties. Ophelia couldn''t get a word in and just stood quietly to the side,


    At these banquets specifically hosted for politicians, the status of business heiresses was nowhere close to that of these political socialites


    Someone said, "Cecilia, haven''t you always wanted to know who Mr. Keh''s wife is? It''s that girl over there. She''s acknowledged as the god-granddaughter of Mr. Garnegie." "God-granddaughter?" Cecilia nced toward Ophelia, her eyes filled with jealousy.


    She had met Keh once before, just once, and she was into him immediately. She thought, "Who would''ve thought that just one year studying abroad, he''d already have a wife by his side? Really, her?


    "Don''t underestimate her. This woman has tricks up her sleeve. How else could someone from the slums rise so high? What do you think she did to get there?" Sienna, Cecilia''s little sidekick, added fuel to the fire, chiming in


    In the socialite circles, almost everyone was envious of this god granddaughter of the Carnegie family who just popped up out of nowhere.


    Not only has she jumped into high society, but she''s also got the backing of the three major families in Denex and above them all, Keh. No one wouldn''t feel jealous and hateful.


    "Who cares what she did to get here? Let''s find an opportunity tonight to teach her a lesson!" Cecilia dered.


    Ophelia felt thating tonight was pointless, as she barely got a chance to talk to any of the influential people. But the cruise had already set off, and she had to wait until the party ended to disembark. 11:46 Mon, Nov 18 BB.


    She turned around, surprised to find that a male waiter had suddenly appeared behind her.


    The waiter identally spilled a tray of red wine all over her. Hr white suit was immediately soaked with wine from the chest down, looking like it had been dipped in a vat of burgundy lye,


    "I''m so sorry, truly sorry... the male walter, terrified, fell to his knees on the floor, Everyone in the banquet hall was drawn by the disturbance.


    "Oh my gosh! Ms. Spencer, what are you doing? It''s just wine spilled on you. Do you really need the waiter to kneel and apologize? Cecilia eximed loudly.


    Cecilia was the daughter of Harris. Her father handled many responsibilities, so naturally, no one would dare to offend her.


    "Isn''t this too much? Sienna added. "How can someone with such poor manners be at this party? It''s not a big deal, yet she made the waiter kneel and apologize." Those unaware of the situation started giving Ophelia odd looks after hearing these remarks.


    The waiter kneeling before her still refused to get up. "I''m sorry I''m sorry Ms. Spencer. I was truly wrong. I beg your forgiveness...


    Harris''s gaze turned to this scene, and Trent also frowned slightly as he looked over. Such incidents were thest thing a party needs.-


    "Youngdy, don''t make things difficult for him." Harris tried to mediate, as it really wasn''t much of an issue, and he didn''t want to dampen everyone''s mood.


    Ophelia, who hadn''t spoken a word until now, was somewhat speechless.


    She lowered her eyes to nce at the waiter on the floor, then casually shifted her gaze to the two girls who had just spoken.


    Fiy Carnegie and Henry wanted to step in to help resolve the situation, but Ophelia stopped them with just one look. It''s a small issue, she could handle it herself.


    "So, do I just deserve to be sshed like this?" She didn''t rush to deny that she was the one who made the waiter kneel and apologize, instead, she went along with their line of thought and continued speaking


    Ophelia stood tall and didn''t seem the least bit awkward, despite being soaked in red wine. In fact, she thought the red wine stains added a unique touch to the outfit.


    Many people were captivated by the calm andposed aura radiating from this youngdy.


    Seeing the situation, Cecilia stepped forward. "He didn''t do it on purpose, and besides, you bumped into him, making hir identally spill the wine on you. You''re an adult; shouldn''t you be responsible for your own actions? Why me it on him "So, it''s my fault, right?" Ophelia raised an eyebrow, looking as if she was easy to bully.


    Cecilia pressed harder. "It''s not a big deal, he''s already apologized, so do you really have to go on about it?" Such obvious moral ckmail.


    She walked straight up to Cecilia. "Ms. Duncan is right, and it''s really not a big deal."


    Ophelia continued smoothly from where Cecilia left off, as if she had no intention of pursuing the matter further.


    Cecilia was preparing to press her advantage, but suddenly saw Ophelia casually grab a ss of red wine from the table. She lookedpletely puzzled.


    In the next moment, Ophelia pretended to stumble and poured her entire ss of red wine onto Cecilia.


    "What are you doing?" Cecilia waspletely shocked, looking down in disbelief at therge red wine stain on her pink evening gown


    She thought. ''Is this woman crazy? She dared to purposely spill wine on me?"


    "I''m sorry, Ms. Duncan, I identally spilled it. I''m really sorry Ophelia said earnestly, bowing deeply.


    "You''ll pay for this!" Cecilia took two steps forward and raised her hand to strike Ophelia''s face. But before the p couldnd, her wrist was firmly seized by Ophelia.


    "Ms. Duncan, why are you so angry? It''s just a little wine on your dress. I''ve already apologized. Is it really necessary to make such a fuss about it?" Ophelia imitated her tone, repeating her words carefully.


    Cecilia''s chest heaved with rage at her shameless behavior.


    "You did it on purpose! That''s different!" Nearby, Sienna finally reacted after a long pause and stepped forward to argue


    "So?" Ophelia let go of Cecilia''s hand, picked up another ss of wine, and poured it straight onto Sienna''s luxurious dress. "Now that''s what I call on purpose!"


    "Oh-my dress!" Sienna screamed, stepping back a few steps.


    "Why are you yelling so loud? It''s not a big deal." Ophelia''s words sounded very familiar since she had just said the same thing.


    Everyone present was beyond shocked; the


    expressions were indescribable.


    Harris'' face grew unfriendly, as if he was beingpletely ignoredBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    He thought, ''Theo really recognized a wonderful granddaughter!

 Jilted Bride 151

    Suddenly, the mood in the banquet hall became tense and heavy. Those who knew Ople was Mrs. Sinir were surprised


    at first, then calmed down. After all, she had the right to be arrogant.


    They were curious to see how Harris, who was unaware of this, would react,


    Everyone knew that Harris was the kind of person who fiercely protects his own; when his daughter got sshed with wine, there was no way he''d just let it slide. Authority could be overpowering


    He stepped forward, patted Ophelia on the shoulder, and joked, No wonder you''re Theo''s acknowledged granddaughter, your personality does have a bit of his character, don''t you all think?


    He turned around and looked at the people, and his gaze was unmistakably clear. From now on, her status in the business world would be taken ''under his wing by him.


    "Girl, having a personality is good, but don''t have too much... These words were quite meaningful, and there was a cold edge in Harris'' eyes.


    Fiy Carnegie and Henry were about to step forward, but a gid got there first.


    Phoebe had a slight smile on her lips. "Uncle Harris, there''s really no right or wrong in this matter, because Elia didn''t do it on purpose. Things got a little heated when Cecilia spoke earlier, so how about we just let it be?" Harris'' eyes fell on Phoebe, and his previously stern expression softened a little.


    He turned his head and looked at Cecilia with a smile, his tone mildly critical "Cecilia, that wasn''t right of you. How could you say such things about Ms. Carnegie? Let''s just leave it now, be mature and let it go." The sudden change left Cecilia, who was expecting Harris to support her, feeling confused. "But Dad...


    "Follow my order!" Harris'' tone became sterner as he gave Cecilia a pointed look, his expression a deceptively kind smile.


    He said, "It''s normal for kids to have little arguments. Let''s do this: have the crew prepare a couple of outfits and let Ms. Carnegie and my daughter go and change."


    This "Ms. Carnegie" that Harris referred to was Ophelia. Ophelia nced at Phoebe, who had "kindly" intervened. To outsiders, it seemed like she was helping to defuse the situation for her.


    In fact, she was helping Harris. She knew that once things got out of hand, Keh would definitely get involved, which meant Harris wouldn''t be able to keep his position for long.


    She could see right through their little schemes. As for Cecilia, she frowned with dissatisfaction, her gaze unintentionally fixing on Phoebe with intense scrutiny and curiosity. Cecilia thought, ''So young, yet she could easily make my dad relent; she must have a remarkable background.


    Ophelia said, "No wonder Mr. Duncan is so wise, but we still need to sort things out. How much are the dresses that I stained,dies? Name your price, and I''llpensate you. "Also, my dress got stained too, and someone needs to take responsibility for that."


    Ophelia, wearing a dress stained with wine, slowly walked over to the kneeling server..


    Everyone was confused. They thought, "What more does she want? Is spilling the wine not enough? Does she also intend to


    scold the server?"


    "Isn''t it just a dress? The Carnegie family''s granddaughter acts like she''s from the slums, nitpicking over such a trivial


    matter?


    "That''s right!"


    Some people whispered, assuming Ophelia wouldn''t hear them


    TB


    Ophelia helped the server up from the ground. "This dress is custom-made and costs about 70 thousand dors. So, tell me, how do you n topensate me?"Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    The server was in shock hearing this. He thought, 70 thousand dors? A dress costing 70 thousand dors?


    His forehead was instantly covered in a cold sweat, and just as his knees were about to give way again, Ophelia caught his arm. "Your knees aren''t worth that much."


    More than half of the people present were shocked by Ophelia''smanding stance. They thought, ''Does she really think she can do whatever she wants just because the Carnegie family supports her?


    "Why is she like this? Why make things difficult for a server?" someone muttered in disapproval.


    "Ms. Carnegie, there''s no need to go overboard here. Let''s not ruin a perfectly good dinner party just because of one person."


    "Yeah, it''s just an outfit. The waiter shouldn''t have to pay for it, right?"


    Ophelia ignored them and said to the waiter, "If you don''t want to cough up 70 thousand dors, just tell the truth. Who told you to spill red wine all over me?" As soon as she said this, Ceci and Sienna''s faces went pale. Stenna said, "Ms. Spencer, are you serious? It''s just a wine stain! A good dry cleaning can take care of that, and you don''t neer to pay for my dress. Don''t make it hard for him." That was certainly gracious.


    o pay me back either. Let''s just let it go." Just a moment ago, Cecilia was so assertive, but now her tone.


    "You don''t have to pay softened.


    Ophelia knew this incident was definitely connected to those two


    "Your decision has nothing to do with me. Ophelia said and then turned to the waiter. "I want every penny for my dress, or III take legal action."


    The waiter became even more nervous when he heard about the threat of legal action. He thought, It''s 70 thousand dors He would have to save up for two or three years without spending anything. He couldn''t handle this debt With determination, the waiter raised his hand and pointed at Cecilia and Sienna. "It was them! They told me to do it and even tipped me 700 dors." He said, pulling out a wad of bills from his pocket.


    The waiter continued, "Take it back! Ms. Spencer, they were the ones who told me to spill the drinks on you. They even tol me to kneel and apologize afterward, saying you''re kind-hearted and would definitely forgive me." "You''re lying!" Cecilia was the first to stand up and deny it.


    The waiter retorted, "If you think it''s nonsense, just review the surveince footage. Ms, Spencer, they were the ones who instructed me to do it."


    Fortunately, the security on this cruise was excellent, with cameras everywhere; otherwise, he wouldn''t have been able to clear his name.


    Cecilia''s chest rose and fell with anger. She thought, "How do we end up with someone like this? She shot a re at Opheli It was all because of Ophelia that she suffered embarrassment


    Their initial thought was to use this minor incident to elevate her to a moral high ground, but they didn''t expect her to act so unpredictably


    First, she sshed them with wine, and then this happened,pletely catching them off guard as they hadn''t considered the security cameras.


    "So, do you two need to check the surveince footage?" Ophelia tone was calm, and the wine on her clothes had already half dried.


    From the expressions on their faces, everyone could tell what was happening.


    "I was wondering what was happening! At first, I wasn''t even paying attention here, but wasn''t it after they finished talking


    we focused on this?"


    "So Ms. Spencer''s two sses of wine weren''t wasted!"


    "Seeing it now, Ms. Spencer''s actions really served them right!"


    "Mr. Duncan. Fiy took a few steps forward. "Although the Carnegie family still has some businesse we Carnegies won''t stand for being bullied for nothing" depending on you,


    In other words, Fiy meant that they could drop the business, but if someone got bullied, they won''t just let it go.

 Jilted Bride 152

    Looking at the back protecting her, Ophelia felt warmth spread in her heart. In the past, she was used to handling everything by herself, and now she realized howforting it was to have someone to lean on.


    No wonder in her past life, Emily always liked hiding behind her family. This feeling was different from when Keh


    stood in front of her.


    Ophelia didn''t notice she was lost in thought, with her mind entirely filled with Keh, as if there was room for nothing


    else.


    Feeling the stares around him, Harris shot an angry look at his daughter for making trouble, utterly embarrassed. The side that originally had a valid argument suddenly seemed to lose in


    "Kids having a little squabble, why get angry, Fiy?" Harris made a sudden change in his attitude, yet still held his superiority. "We''llpensate for her clothes. There''s no need to damage our goodwill for such a trivial matter."


    "This is not a trivial matter." Fiy nced at Ophelia''s stained clothes, his usually kind face now showing some coldness. "Elia, how do you want to resolve this?"


    The wine was spilled, and the clothes'' money was asked for. She wasn''t the one embarrassed.


    Ophelia said. "Just have you two apologize to me in public."


    Harris'' face looked grim, but since the issue was now public, he couldn''t rely on his position to intimidate others. But he had already noted the resentment against the Carnegie family in his heart.


    He thought that there was nothing so great about the Carnegie family, which was just a family of upstarts. For someone not even rted by blood, they dared to disrespect him like this. They could confront each other in the business worldter. Harris said coldly, "Cecilia, apologize to Ms. Carnegie"


    Hearing Harris'' word, Cecilia''s face darkened, as if her mouth was glued shut.


    Truman, Sienna''s father, stepped forward. Seeing Harris asking his daughter to apologize, he quickly urged his own disappointing daughter to apologize too. "Sienna, apologize quickly, or wait till we get home and see how I deal with you." Sienna gritted her teeth, clutching the hem of her dress. Her status couldn''tpare to Cecilia, so she had to bow her head first. I''m sorry, Ms. Spencer."


    After Sienna apologized, all eyes turned to Cecilia. And Cecilia looked at her father pleadingly, biting her lip hard.


    It wasn''t until she saw her father had no intention of helping that she reluctantly spat out the words, "I''m sorry" Her lips were bitten so hard they were almost bleeding.


    Hearing their apologies, Ophelia didn''t say anything more.


    Previously, people in the business world already recognized Ophelia''s status at Carnegie family, and now even those in politics are aware.


    The issue quickly blew over, and the cruise ship continued its smooth journey on the sea. Ophelia was led by a crew member to a lounge in one of the cabins, where she was offered a spare gown.


    She went to the bathroom to wash her hands, ready to change out of her wet clothes, when she sharply felt a sense of being watched as soon as she entered the room.


    Her hand paused on the buttons; rather than turning her head, she looked around the room with her eyes.


    11:46 Mon, Nov 18 BuB.


    Someone knocked the door, "E, can Ie in?" Phoebe''s voicee from outside the door.


    Ophelia thought, ''Am I just imagining things?


    She turned to open the door and saw Phoebe standing there holding a white paper bag,


    "Elia, I was worried that the dress they''d prepared for you here might not fit, so I brought a spare gown. We''re about the same size, so it should fit you." Phoebe offered the gown with both hands. Ophelia didn''t take it, merely nced at it with her eyes lowered It was a light blue evening dress, simr in style to the one she was already wearing.


    "Thanks, but no thanks. I''m fine with this outfit; it''s almost dry anyway. Ophelia politely declined her offer.


    "It might be ufortable; we''ll reach the shore in a bit. The wind is strong outside, don''t catch a cold." Phoebe said with concern, like a big sister, as if they were very close.


    "I''ve never worn this dress before. Alright Elia, you go put it on! Don''t catch a cold, or Kenny will worry." Phoebeughed as she handed her the dress and closed the door.


    The feeling of being watched still hadn''t vanished. She ced the dress aside, not intending to change into it. Suddenly, she noticed a strange smell.


    When she came in earlier, she first went to the bathroom to wash her hands, and the hand wash had a nice scent, so she didn''t notice anything unusual. By the time she instinctively held her breath, it was toote.


    Her head was spinning, and even though she tried to stop breathing, she couldn''t shake off the dizziness. It felt like she was. standing on cotton, unable to stand steadily.


    She dug her nails into her palm, trying to open the lounge door, but she just couldn''t manage to open it.


    She thought to herself, Is it Phoebe behind this thing? 1 shouldn''t have let my guard down."


    She quickly took out her phone, but the numbers on it were bing blurry.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Her hands weren''t responding right either, and no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t press the correct numbers.


    She pressed a couple of buttons randomly, and saddenly her vision went ck, and she fell to the floor.


    After a few rings, a voice came through the phone. "Hello? Elia, what''s up? Hello? Hello... Elia, did you call by mistake? Elia.... Hello?"


    Chloe moved her phone away from her ear, looked at the screen showing a call duration of 11 seconds, paused for a moment, and then called back


    "Hello, the number you dialed is no answer, please call itter...


    "Mommy, was that call from Ophelia?" Wyatt asked as he walked over in his little dinosaur pajamas.


    "Yes..." Chloe replied, feeling a bit uneasy.


    Ophelia wouldn''t make a call like this without a reason. She called back several times, but the phone was still off


    She thought, ''Could something have happened?


    She began to get a little anxious. If Ophelia was in a direct confrontation, she''d certainly be fine, but she worried about some sneaky tricks.


    She picked up herptop and started typing quickly. A few minutester, her delicate eyebrows began to furrow.


    Ophelia''s phone was off, so she couldn''t be located. After trying make a few more calls, the phone was still off


    She decided to try a different approach and nned to hack into the Rosewood Manor surveince system to take a look. But after countless attempts, she still couldn''t break into the Rosewood Manor''s surveince system. Unless she obtained higher ess permissions, but... Chloe hesitated for a moment, then closed theptop and nced at Wyatt beside her. "Can you behave and stay home alone? Mommy has to go out for a while."


    "I can. Mommy. I''ll take care of myself. Where are you going?" Wyatt looked at Chloe with concern.


    "Mommy needs to visit Rosewood Manor."


    It was probably a woman''s intuition, but she couldn''t shake the feeling that Ophelia''s call was a bit unusual.


    "Is it Ophelia''s ce?" Wyatt thought for a moment. "Can you take me with you?"

 Jilted Bride 153

    Wyatt looked up, his big, blue eyes resembling ck grapes, fixed intently on her.


    Chloe nced down at the little "dinosaur" at her feet, the little guy who always listened to her, making his first independent request. Wyatt said, "I''ll take care of myself, so Mommy won''t worry."


    After hesitating for a couple of seconds, Chloe nodded. "Alright, let''s change clothes."


    The two quickly turned back to their rooms, and two minutester, they came out one after the other.


    Going to the underground parking, Chloe opened the driver''s seat door and sat down, while Wyatt climbed onto the child seat in the back.


    They both fastened their seatbelts at the same time. Chloe hit the gas, driving out of the underground garage, heading towards Rosewood Manor.


    By the time they got to Rosewood Manor, it was already ten at night.


    Chloe got out of the car and closed the door.


    The guard at the entrance recognized her as a friend of Ophelia and was about to greet her politely, only to notice her frowning, her sharp almond-shaped eyes filled with anxiety. "Is Mrs. Sinir at home?" "Mrs. Sinir went out and hasn''te back yet, the guard answered truthfully.


    Is she with Mr. Sinir?"


    "No...


    "Can you help me contact Mr. Sinir?" Her breathing quickened, what started as just a vague unease had now be much stronger.


    The bodyguard furrowed his brow, wondering if something had happened to Ophelia. He didn''t bother to report first, but led the group straight into Rosewood Manor.


    They rushed, with Wyatt jogging ahead.


    The bodyguard knocked on the study door on the second floor. "Mr. Sinir, Mrs. Sinir''s friend is here. She said she can''t reach Mrs. Sinir and are worried something might have happened."


    Inside the study, Keh''s sharp brows tightened slightly as he stood up while dialing a number. "Sorry, the number you dialed...."


    He hung up the call and immediately dialed Caleb.


    Caleb said, "Mr. Sinir."


    "Where are you?" Keh''s voice was extremely cold.


    Caleb, who had been leaning against the car door smoking, immediately stood up and put out his cigarette. "Mrs. Sinir is on the cruise; guests aren''t allowed to bring people on board. We are waiting at the dock. Nothing unusual so far." "How long have they been out?"


    Three hours. In another half hour it will dock" Caleb said, looking around and already seeing the silhouette of the cruise onContent from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Chapter 133-


    the horizon.


    After hanging up, Keh called Fiy, but there was no answe


    "What''s going He opened the study door and looked at the person at the entrance. on?"


    "About an hour ago, 1 got a call from Elia, but there was no sound on the other end. The phone rang for eleven seconds before it was hung up, and now her phone is off, so I can''t trace Chloe exined the situation briefly.


    At that moment, the door at the end of the second-floor hallway opened. "What''s going on? Kid, you''re back again?"


    This sound was so familiar to Chloe that she froze with her back tensing up. The air felt increasingly thin near her nose, and all the color left her face.


    "Uncle" Wyatt turned his head to see Noah casuallying out of the room, wearing dinosaur slippers and a dark green dinosaur onesie.


    Wyatt was getting tired of turning his head back and forth, wanting to turn away, but Chloe was holding his hand tight, and her grip was only getting firmer. "Mommy, Mommy, you''re hurting my hand... Mommy." Chloe suddenly let go, and Wyatt pulled free, plopping down onto the floor.


    By the time Chloe realized what was happening and moved to help, Noah, in his dinosaur pajamas, had already swooped in and picked up the little guy.


    Chloe turned around awkwardly, a sh of surprise in her eyes, but quickly looked away when Noah raised his head,


    "Mr. Sinir, I''ll leave Elia''s matter to you. If she returns safely, please have her give me a call. I''ll leave now." Without a moment''s hesitation, Chloe bowed her head and led Wyatt down the stairs. "Mommy, slow down. I''m struggling to keep up. Goodbye, uncle"


    "Well... goodbye, little guy!" Noah looked confused. He thought that if he was really that scary to make them run away. Keh lifted his eyes and stared directly at Noah. Tm looking for someone." "Who?" Noah was so taken aback by his gaze that his heart skipped a beat. "I know..."


    Noah quickly realized, who else could it be but Ophelia. Seeing Keh''s urgency, he quickly went into the study, sat down at theputer, and his fingers flew across the keyboard.


    A few minutester, Noah''s sharp eyebrows gradually furrowed, and his usual yful grin faded away, revealing a pair of intense, bold dark eyes. Theputer light highlighted his well-defined features, making him look exceptionally handsome. But this striking handsomeness onlysted for half a minute before Noah started scratching his head in frustration. "I, I forgot what to do next."


    As soon as he said this, Keh gave him a look that could eat someone alive. A bad memory was really a hindrance. Keh thought of something and immediately had his bodyguards stop Chloe and bring her up.


    On the other side. Ophelia felt dazed, with the sounds of huge waves all around her. Then the sound of the waves grew quieter, and it seemed like she was being taken somewhere.


    She tried to open her eyes, but they just wouldn''t open, as if glued shut.


    00%


    "Elia, Elia... can you hear me? Elia... After an indefinite amount of time, her hearing returned, and a woman''s anxious voice reached her ears. She thought, "Who? Who''s talking?''


    Ophelia forced her eyelids open, and at the same time, a nerve in her forehead suddenly twitched twice, making her inhale sharply from the pain.


    Her vision gradually cleared, revealingplete darkness around her, except for the shadows of leaves outside the window seeping through the curtains, providing the only trace of light,


    Her hands and feet were tied, leaving her unable to move. She wasn''t sure how much time had passed, only feeling a soreness in her neck like she had slept wrong.


    "Elia, are you okay?"


    Ophelia thought, "That voice.... It''s Phoebe?"


    Her mind was foggy as she struggled to shift her body, noticing that Phoebe, like her, had her hands and feet tied and was leaning against the wall.


    Ophelia was confused and thought, ''What''s going on? Could it be that it wasn''t Phoebe who did this to her


    Phoebe asked, "Elia, do you know what''s going on?"


    She couldn''t clearly see Phoebe''s expression, but from her voice, she sounded both anxious and at a loss.


    Using her bound hands behind her, Ophelia barely managed to push herself up, leaning against the wall to keep her breathing steady.


    "You don''t know what happened?" Her voice was unusually calm


    I don''t know. After I brought you the clothes, someone knocked me out from behind... Phoebe replied. As if fearing Ophelia wouldn''t believe her, she added, "I didn''t expect something like this to happen, especially with security being so tight. Ophelia felt a bit of pain in her neck as she struggled to turn. Although she couldn''t see clearly, she was observing her, surroundings.

 Jilted Bride 154

    "What should we do, Elia. Phoebe tried hard to free her hands and feet, but it was no use.


    Compared to Phoebe''s restless anxiety, Ophelia was much calmer. She sat quietly, breathing softly without making much noise.


    "Aren''t you scared?" Phoebe had lost her earlierposed demeanor. Talking seemed to be the only way to calm her nerves. "Not bad." Ophelia leaned against the wall with her eyes closed, as if gathering energy.


    "Then why..."


    "Shh...


    Phoebe mped her mouth shut, and in the silent room, only the soft and deep sounds of breathing could be heard.


    There were windows around, but they couldn''t hear the sound of the sea, just trees, indicating they had been moved to a new ce.


    They were probably on the second floor or higher, as she could see the shadows of the tree leaves.


    She figured that at least two hours had passed since she fainted.


    She had boarded the ship at 7 PM. By the time it set sail and she went to the lounge to change clothes, the party had been in full swing for an hour and a half. During the time, she heard loud waves, which might mean they were taken off the cruise. The journey from the sea to the shore would have taken over an hour. So, she guessed a little more than two hours must have passed,


    The party ended at 10:30 PM, and when Caleb and Barrett didn''t see here out, they would surely tell Keh. She was confident Keh would find her. She just needed to stall for time to keep herself safe.


    Phoebe''s breathing became heavier. "Elia, can I talk now?"


    "Suit yourself!"


    "Why do you think they captured the two of us? Phoebe asked, puzzled.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ""No idea. Are you scared?"


    Phoebe exhaled slowly, "Yeah, I am."


    "An heiress from the underworld being scared?" Ophelia spoke directly to her, trying to see her expression, but couldn''t make it out.


    "I... Phoebe started, then stopped.


    After a while, just as Ophelia thought she might not continue, Phoebe slowly began speaking again.


    Ime


    She said, "Honestly, I''m not really an underworld heiress. Our family is huge, and I''m the least valued, so they sent me off to Mgia when I was young."


    Ophelia smiled silently. She thought. Their family did have lots of members, but unloved? How could that be? If she is truly


    unloved, why would Keh''s aunt, Ivy, arrange for him to marly her


    Phoebe said, "If they ask for a ransom, 1 bet my family wouldn''t even bother. That''s how rich families are: blood ties mean less than benefits. Just like the Carnegie family protect you because of your connection to Kenny, isn''t it? "Elia, I really envy you. With Kenny supporting you, you have nothing to worry about. If only one of us could make it out alive. I''d definitely give you the chance. Because I can''t bear to see Kenny sad."


    That was truly moving. Ophelia couldn''t tell which of her words were true and which were false. She just said whatever she


    wanted


    She leaned against the wall, closing her eyes to rest. Her head still hurt a little.


    Time slowly passed by. In the darkness, it was impossible to track time, and though only a few minutes might have passed, it felt like an eternity to them.


    "Elia...


    "Hush! Stop talking!"


    In the quiet, Ophelia seemed to hear ovepping footsteps, more than just a few people.


    She pressed her ear against the wall, and the sound became a bit clearer. She could also hear the sound of something heavy hitting the floor rhythmically. The sound came closer and stopped right outside the door of their room. The door opened, letting in a beam of blinding light from outside. Two ck-d bodyguards stood on either side of the door, with more bodyguards lining the hallway.


    Ophelia first noticed a gold-topped cane. Her eyes slowly moved upward, following the hand holding the cane, and she saw an old man in a traditional robe, sporting a beard, standing among the bodyguards. sting on the cane.


    The elderly man''s back was straight as he stood there with both hands resting


    "I''m truly sorry for the inconvenience, both of you. An old voice echoed slowly through the silent space.


    "Who are you?" Phoebe asked urgently.


    The old man ignored her question and went on, I''ve invited you two here to ask for a couple of favors. I wonder if you''re willing to help?"


    "Invited? Is this what you call an invitation?" Phoebe''s voice was sharp, with a bit of a spoiled and unreasonable tone, qu different from her earlier frightened demeanor.


    Ophelia used the light from outside to clearly see the room''s furnishings and the outline of the old man in front of her. "What kind of help?" Her voice was calm, as if she were quite willing to cooperate.


    The old man said, "It''s simple. Ms. Spencer just needs to call Keh Sinir, asking him to exchange your life for the Sinir Group


    "Is my life really that valuable?" Ophelia''s lips curved into a faint, almost invisible smile.


    She was right-the old man in front of her was indeed Keh''s grandfather, Ronan Sinir.


    No wonder he once led the Sinir family to its peak. Even with his grandson dead, he wasn''t greatly affected. It seems Keh miscalcted


    "So, how do you want me to help you?" Phoebe asked urgently.


    "I need the Davidson family''s help," As soon as Ronan finished speaking, Ophelia immediately understood his scheme.


    Using the Davidson family''s help to counter Keh''s hidden forces while intending to use her to pressure him into surrendering the corporation was indeed a smart n. Ophelia smiled, "Mr. Sinir, you''re still as sharp as ever. But I''m curious, even if you do take back the Sinir Group, who do you n to support to take the lead?"


    Ronan''s expression changed immediately, and the hand resting on his cane trembled slightly.


    Patrick was dead. The grandson he cherished most, with the proudest lineage, was gone.


    Ronan''s face was now terrifyingly gloomy, and his tone was far from the "kindness" it had been moments ago. "So, are you refusing to cooperate?"


    are you


    Ophelia said, "It''s not about my willingness; rather, Mr. Sinir overestimates my importance to Keh. I''m just a tool he married for using. There''s no way he''d give up the hard-won Sinir Group for me Ophelia knew she had value to him and felt rtively safe, at least not in immediate danger.


    So she had to stall for as much time as she could, hoping Keh would find her soon.


    "Look at how long I''ve been missing, and he still hasn''te to find me." Ophelia said tentatively.


    Ronan let out a coldugh. "He won''t be able to find you, so don''t try to stall for time. I may be old, but I can still handle some things."


    The smile disappeared from Ophelia''s lips, and her once calm heartbeat started to race. Her hands, tied behind her back, were clenched tightly.


    She thought, "What does heinean Keh won''t find me! Where exactly is this?

 Jilted Bride 155

    In the quiet room. Ronan''s gazended on Phoebe.


    Phoebe pulled her legs back a bit. "I, I can''t let you hurt Kenny! The Davidson family definitely won''t help you either?


    "That''s not up to you." Ronan''s eyes skimmed past her and returned to Ophelia, as he subtly signaled the bodyguards.


    The bodyguards caught on quickly and led Ophelia out of the room, leaving Phoebe behind.


    Ophelia felt weak all over, as if leeches were sucking at her nerves, and her legs felt like they were walking on cotton. Maybe it was because she had been drugged.


    She looked around; it seemed like an old mansion with redwood decor everywhere.


    Looking up, a group of bodyguards in ck and armed mercenaries were stationed in the lobby and at the entrance, ensuring tight security.


    Suddenly, she froze as she heard the sound of waves with her sharp hearing.


    The sound was faint, yet remarkably clear in the stillness of the night. The waves seemed to be all around.


    She thought, Can it be... I''m on an ind?"


    That''s why Ronan was confident Keh wouldn''t find her. Her scalp tingled involuntarily; she wanted to break free, but


    he was too weak to do so.


    Rosewood Manor, Chloe was sitting at theputer, skillfully using Noah''s advanced privileges. Knowing that Ophelia was on the yacht, she immediately hacked into the yacht''s surveince system.


    Theputer screen cast shifting colors on her exquisite, outstanding face. Her aloof, proud eyes were intensely fixed on theputer screen.


    Yet, her gaze was asionally pulled away by the person on the couch. It felt as if a giant hand was clenching her heart.


    The usually obedient and well-mannered Wyatt was surprisingly lively and energetic in his presence. It seemed like that w the natural behavior of a child.


    Chloe said. "Thest call from Elia''s phone was made from the second-floor cabin, but the surveince around there had been messed with early on."


    Just then, Caleb called. "Mr. Sinir, the yacht isn''t heading towards the shore, but is moving in the opposite direction. Could there be some forces at work? Should we move closer to check it out?"


    Keh exuded an air of deadly seriousness. After a brief silence, he simply said two words, "No need." His voice was chilling, sending shivers down one''s spine.


    The people in the study looked at him in surprise, unable to figure out what he was thinking.


    Keh was staring at the surveince footage on theputer Someone had deliberately misled him, wanting to waste his time on this matter. The surveince footage waspletely destroyed, so Ophelia must have already left the yacht. Just after he hung up, another call came in. "Mr. Sinir... it''s my fault. I don''t know when Ronan managed to escape from Sinir Manor Mark''s voice was filled with guilt.


    No one expected Ronan, that crafty old fox, to pull such a move Outwardly, he seemed like a grandfather grieving over il


    11:47 Mon, Nov 18 GUB.


    loss of his grandson art stricken by serious illness, but in reality he secretly nned everything.


    Ophelia must be in his hands. Keh''s eyes didn''t reveal much emotion, but everyone in the room could feel his terrifying pressure.


    He thought, "That old man dares to mess with my girl. He''s asking for trouble:


    Not long after he hung up, his phone vibrated again. Keh stared at the unfamiliar number on the phone and turned the screen towards Chloe. Chloe immediately understood and quickly typed the numbers on theputer.


    Then he pressed ept, slowly bringing the phone to his car. Before the caller could speak, Keh''s cold voice echoed through the air.


    He said. "You old bastard, all you want is the Sinir Group, right? You think anyone cares? Release my person, and the group is yours,"


    "Is this really the same Keh who once imprisoned me at Sinir Manor, acting like a king?" Ronan''s old yet strong voice was filled with sarcas?n.


    It seemed he had bet correctly; this woman was more important than he had imagined.


    "Cut the chatter." Keh''s sharp gaze turned towards Chloe


    Chloe shook her head as she watched the search signal on theputer spinning and scanning continuously, yet there was ?¨® response. Ronan''s voice came through the phone again. "Besides that, I want four of your fingers. If you don''t give them, I''ll take them from your woman." "Do you dare?" Keh


    nched his fist, the veins on the back of his hand were prominent, extending down to his forearm under the sleeve, his gaze sharp and dangerous.


    Ronan said, "What wouldn''t I dare? Worst case, you''ll kill me too. I''ve lived long enough anyway, I''m just sorry that my granddaughter-inw would have to be buried with me!


    "She''s so young and beautiful. I have to admit, you and Noel both have a good eye for women, it''s just a pity... his lives are


    short!


    I''ll give you time to think. By morning, I want you to hold a press conference, hand over thepany, and cut off four of your fingers publicly. Otherwise, I''ll send her four fingers back to you. Don''t try any tricks; you won''t find out where I am Ronan was going to avenge his deceased grandson. Their conversation was clearly heard in the silent study.


    Chloe stared at theputer screen, which still disyed the search icon, her hands clenched tightly as if she was making tough decision.


    The following moment, her fingers flew across the keyboard quickly. She whispered two words to Keh, "Dy him." Keh lowered his eyes and let out a slight breath. "I need to hear her voice now"


    "Alright, no problem." Ronan, leaning on his cane, slowly walked toward Ophelia and held out the satellite phone to her. "Speak


    Keh said, "Elia, speak."


    Hearing Keh''s voice, Ophelia tightened her grip behind her back. She swallowed hard but kept her lips shut, refusing say a single word.


    She wouldn''t let anyote threaten Keh, and she wouldn''t be Keh''s weak spot,


    All she could do was stall for time. She hoped Keh would ulerstand what she meant.


    Ronan''s gaze turned cold as he narrowed his eyes to get a better look at the person in front of him. Heughed and said, "Who would''ve thought my granddaughter-inw has such a stubborn streak?


    "At first, I thought she didn''t love you. But from what I''m seeing now, her feelings for you run deep! Not willing to be your weak point, not wanting you to be threatened. So principled!"Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    After Ronan finished speaking, Kehi''s low, amusedugh cator from the other end of the phone. "You old bastard, are you ying games with me?"


    Ophelia thought, ''Good, Keh understands me.


    Upon hearing this, Ronan immediately pulled the phone back e face him. "I''m not here to y games with you! I have the woman right here. If you don''t do as I say, you''ll receive four fingers along with your woman''s body." "Do as you please. Keh said casually, his attitude suddenly indifferent.


    "You... Before Ronan could say another word, Keh had already hung up the phone.

 Jilted Bride 156

    Ronan''s confidence diminisheit.


    He red fiercely at Ophelia, using a cane to lift her chin.


    "Great! You''ve got guts. Let me see just how brave you are!" Ross threatened, picked up his phone, and made a video call. The call connected.


    With a fierce look, Ronan smiled as he switched the camera and said, "Look, isn''t that your woman? Getting her to talk is pretty easy!" Ronan signaled a bodyguard with his eyes.


    Then the bodyguard grabbed Ophelia''s hair, messing it up and lifting her before letting go, kicking her in the waist to knock her onto the floor. Ophelia''s head hit the wooden coffee table hard.


    Ophelia''s face turned pale from the pain, and she clenched her teeth, not making a sound.


    Sticky blood slowly trickled down her brow,


    Ophelia kept her head down, trying to avoid Ronan''s camera.


    She said in her heart, "Keh, don''t do anything reckless. Stay calm!


    Keh was in the study.


    His face was stern and threatening, his knuckles turning white from the tight grip on his phone, with a subtle quiver in his


    jaw.


    "Ronan, do you really think I''d believe that? Trying to fool me with just anyone?" Keh''s voice sounded indifferent.


    In the video, the bodyguard once again grabbed Ophelia''s hair.


    Her loose hair mixed with the blood from her forehead covered her face, obscuring her original appearance.


    The bodyguard looked at Ophelia''s innocent face with a sinister gaze. The crimson blood on her forehead made her appen both pitiful and deserving of sympathy. The bodyguard couldn''t help but gulp, wanting to reach out and tidy her hair.


    Keh shouted, "Don''t touch her!"


    He clenched his teeth, his voice icily cold. Even through the screen, Keh sounded menacing, and the bodyguard''s hand froze in ce..


    Ronanughed heartily and asked, "Didn''t you not care about her? Then what do you mean?"


    Ronan was absolutely certain now.


    Furthermore, he had discovered what Keh cared about most


    Ronan thought, ''Keh truly takes after his father. What a hopeless romantic!


    With a sinister smile, Ronan shifted the camera to another angle, preventing Keh from seeing Ophelia.


    Mon, Nov


    Ronan said, "Keh, advise you to behave yourself, just like when you were a kid. If Patrick wants kneel. Maybe then, I might consider sparing you because you''re my grandson!" you


    to kneel, thenContent from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Ophelia gazed at Ronan''s sinister expression, remembering Keh''s childhood. She felt distressed, and a drop of blood ran down her brow into her eyes, turning her vision red. Ronan continued, "You better follow my demands. Otherwise, I''ve got a whole crew of big guys here..."


    Ronan paused and hung up the video call.


    Keh''s eyes zed with rage,


    Chloe frowned seriously.


    The green progress bar on theputer was loading.


    Finally, it reached 100%.


    The signal jammer was breached, and Chloe quickly wiped the IP address of her location. Then she switched to Noah''s advanced ess. After a few quick operations, she eximed, "Got it!".


    Keh whipped his head to theputer screen, spotting a blinking red dot on the map located on an ind 62 miles away from the West End dock. Keh grabbed the car keys from the table and went downstairs, his bodyguards closely following as he quickly informed Caleb and the others.


    At 2 a.m., dozens of ck SUVS raced down the road at high speed.


    By the West End dock, numerous speedboats were ready.


    The sky was slowly turning light gray at dawn,


    Across the dark blue sea, white speedboats were churning up waves as they headed toward the ind


    The sky got brighter and brighter.


    Outside the Sinir Manor, several bodyguards and mercenaries barged in frantically,


    Someone said, "Oh no, when was the signal jammer breached?"


    "What?" Ronan, who had been resting, eximed and stood up with his cane, nearly losing his bnce.


    He wondered, ''How could that be? It was the most advanced signal jammer currently


    Ronan''s heart raced with unease. He needed to move quickly.


    "Mr. Sinir, bad news. Yachts areing in from all directions someone reported.


    Ronan''s face was ashen.


    He thought, ''Is it Keh? How could he have found this ce so quickly?


    Upstairs. Ophelia lookedpletely worn out, with dried blood on her forehead and messy hair draped over her should revealing part of her pale face.


    She had been resting with her eyes closed, trying to regain her energy, when she suddenly heard the hurried footsteps of


    11:47 Mon, Nov 18 BUG.


    several people rushing upstairs.


    100%


    The door swung open, and Opliclia was abruptly pulled up from the floor, not even given a moment to catch her breath before being dragged downstairs. Ophelia endured the pain in her waist, as sensation gradually returned to her legs, though they were stiff from having been tied up for so long.


    Their footsteps were hurried and frantic, as if they were fleeing for their lives.


    Hope surged in Ophelia''s heart. She thought, It must be Keh


    Ophelia and Phoebe were dragged out through the back door of the Sinir Manor, and Ophelia could finally they were.


    This was an ind.


    V see where


    The area was densely wooded and deserted, making the mansion stand


    out noticeably.


    Ophelia and Phoebe were thrown onto a yacht.


    From the fall, Ophelia felt like all her bones were going to fall apart, and her head was spinning.


    Just as some people were about to escort Ronan onto the yacht, they suddenly heard gunshots from behind. Several bodyguards in ck copsed instantly, while foreign-looking mercenaries in camouge raised their rifles. At the same time, a few bullets suddenly whizzed out of nowhere.


    In an instant, the bullets pierced through the foreheads of the mercenaries.


    Immediately, people from both sides began a fierce battle.


    At that moment, a person in a ck coat strode past the Sinir Manor.


    His ck pointed leather shoes made a rhythmic "tap-tap on the marble floor, sounding even louder than the gunfire. Even amidst the chaos of flying bullets, the man walked steadily undeterred even when someone next to him was shot in the head and fell at his feet. He made his way through the mansion and approached Ronan, who was just about to board the yacht.


    A pistol was cocked, its dark muzzle pointed directly at Ronan.


    At that moment, Ronan regretted provoking Keh.


    Ronan pondered, ''Since I''ve already realized how important the woman is to Keh, I should have known that he would find her as quickly as possible."


    Ronan shouted, "You''re just like your father! Why go to such lengths for a woman? Keh, put the gun down. I never meant to harm her. I just want to run Sinir Group for two more years, and then it''ll still be yours."


    Im Keh, while out of the corner of his eye, he noticed that a gun was aimed at Keh''s back.


    Ronan smiled to calm


    A sinister gleam shed in Ronan''s eyes.


    However, the next second, almost as if he had eyes in the back of his head, Keh turned around, aimed, and delivered a headshot


    11:47 Mon, Nov 18 B&B


    In just under three seconds, Ronan q

 Jilted Bride 157

    Upon witnessing the scene, Keh frowned deeply. His gaze turned furious at the sight of the blood on Ophelia''s forehead.


    He felt heartbroken and hateful.


    Now, Ophelia''s hands were tied behind her back, and her white coat was covered in mud and dirt. Her hair hung untidily over her shoulders, and she could barely stand on her tied feet. She started at Keh/


    It had only been a few hours since shest saw him, and she missed him terribly.


    Even with the cold gun barrel against her temple, Ophelia''s face remained calm andposed.


    With Keh around, she feared nothing.


    Ronan gripped Ophelia''s arm, his legs shaky as he pulled her back. Two mercenaries with rifles shielded Ronan, their gun barrels aimed at Keh.


    Ronan warned, "Keh, if you don''t want her to die, prepare 300 million dors for me and let me go, or else..."


    "Honey, is this coat you''re wearing yours?" Ophelia asked. Her lips were pale, and her voice was weak and hoarse from not speaking for a long time..


    Ronan was stunned, his eyes squinting slightly as he turned to look at Ophelia with a gun to her head, puzzled.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    He wondered, "What is she talking about? Is she really in the mood for small talk right now? Isn''t she afraid of dying?


    Keh responded, "No, it belongs to Caleb. As Ophelia spoke, the furrow in his brow eased, and his voice softened. Ophelia said, "You don''t look good in that style."


    Keh remarked, "I think so too."


    Their conversation left Ronan puzzled, and he felt ignored by them.


    Ophelia said, "Honey, I miss you."


    Keh replied, "I miss you too. How about we head home soon!"


    Ophelia said, "Yeah, I''m starving"


    Keh asked, "How about I cook you something?"


    Ophelia replied, "Sure."


    Ronan was furing, thinking, ''Do they regard me as air?''


    He asked furiously, "Keh, did you hear me? If you want to save her, prepare 3 million dors."


    Ophelia smiled, staring at Ronan, and said, "Wishful thinking,"


    Ronan''s face twisted with anger, and he hadn''t realized the meaning behind her gaze.


    The next moment, Ophelia gave a strong pull with both hands, and the already loosened rope snapped


    ¦°


    11:47


    Mon, Nov 18 B B


    Then she quickly seized Ronan''s arm that was holding the gun.


    "Bang


    The gun fired into the sky.


    The mercenaries on either side turned to check the situation, about to shoot Ophelia.


    Two rapid gunshots echoed, followed by their heads bursting in gory spray of blood.


    Keh put away his gun, strode forward, and kicked Ronan hail, sending him flying into the sea.


    Ophelia still had her feet tied, her bnce off, and she nearly fell into the sea too.


    Suddenly, Keh''srge hand wrapped around her waist, pulling her into a warm embrace.


    "It''s okay now," Keh reassured, gently patting Ophelia''s head


    She said, "Yeah."


    Keh took out a knife and cut the ropes around Ophelia''s fee His fingers gently brushed away the strands of hair in front of her eyes.


    Keh closely examined the wound on Ophelia''s forehead, his eyes filled with concern. He gently traced the skin around her wound with his fingertip, his gaze growing angrier. Ophelia murmured, "I''m fine...


    Before she could finish her sentence, Keh kissed her, tasting her breath.


    Upon witnessing this and recalling the recent coboration between Keh and Ophelia, Phoebe felt a pang of jealousy.


    "Kenny, help met Phoebe shouted, sitting up on the floor of the yacht. Covered in dust and with tears in her eyes, she looked pleadingly at Keh.


    Keh frowned, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly.


    He seemed surprised to see Phoebe there.


    The tenderness he had shown Ophelia just moments earlierpletely disappeared.


    Keh tossed a dagger towards Phoebe, not caring if she could reach it or save herself, and turned his gaze away from her.


    Ronan hoisted himself up with his hands,pletely drenched and looking somewhat disheveled.


    At this point, none of his men remained; they had all been taken out by Keh''s team.


    Caleb, Barrett, and their group quickly reached the coastline.


    Ronan quickly grabbed the gun by his side, but it had been soaked in seawater. He pulled the trigger several times, but the bullets wouldn''t fire.


    It was the first time that Ronan had witnessed Keh''s frightening power.


    Keh had managed to find this ce in such a short time and taken out dozens of Ronan''s mercenaries in just a few


    minutes.


    Ronan rose shaklly from the water, caneless, and walked slowly to the shore with his hands sped behind his buck, casting nces at those onnd.


    11:47 Mon, Nov 18 D M


    He couldn''t believe Kemeth would dare to even think about killing him.


    "What do you want to do to me? I''m your grandfather!" Ronan said in a trembling voice.


    "Grandfather?" Keh sneered, "Have you forgotten what you said back then!"


    Back then, Keh had clutched Ronan''s pants and begged Roinn to bury his mother, calling him "Grandpa."


    However, Ronan said, "Grandpa? The Sinir family doesn''t recognize a bastard like you!"


    After saying this, Ronan mercilessly kicked Keh, sending him down the steps.


    Ronan said with a smile, "I shouldn''t have been soft-hearted back then and kept your life!"


    Ophelia stared at Ronan coldly. It seemed he had given up.


    100%


    He stated, "Keh, let me tell you the truth; even without that car ident, your mother wouldn''t have lived much longer!"


    Since Ronan was destined to lose everything, he wouldn''t let Keh have an easy life.


    Ronan''s expression remained calm. It seemed like he was hiding a secret only he knew,


    Keh gritted his teeth, his eyes gloomy and hard to read.


    Ronan said, "You want to know why? Get 3 million dors ready for me and send me abroad. Then I''ll give up the Sinir Group. Keh replied. "You wish!"


    He wouldn''t let someone who kidnapped Ophelia just walk away


    Keh continued, "Don''t worry, I won''t kill you. You like it here, right? Then stay and enjoy your twilight years."


    Ronan''s expression shifted. He looked confident just a moment ago, but now his face turned pale.


    "Are you leaving me to die alone on this deserted ind?" Ronan asked.


    "You can swim back," Keh said seriously about something impossible.


    There was absolutely no possibility that Ronan could swim back over 62 miles and survive.


    Keh turned to look at Ophelia next to him, noticing the wound on her forehead. Then he nced at the Sinir Manor again,


    He ordered, "Burn it down""


    Kehpwas not even leaving Ronan a ce to stay.


    Keh wrapped his arm around Ophelia''s shoulder, about to pick her up, when he heard Phoebe shout from behind, "Kenny, be careful!"


    Bang!


    A gunshot echoed


    Keh was suddenly shoved back 2 feet by a force, and Ophelia who had been standing in front of him a moment ago swiftly moved to stand behind him. Keh''s eyes narrowed slightly, and for the first time, a hint of helplessness appeared on his face


    At that moment, it felt as if he lost all his senses, the veins on his forehead standing out


    "So annoying! But it''s better this way. You should taste the sorrow of losing a loved one again!" Ronan said andughed crazily.


    "Bang


    Caleb shot Ronan in the arm that was holding the gun.


    Ronan''s arm went limp, and he shouted in pain.


    Several men moved in and pinned him down.

 Jilted Bride 158

    .


    The morning sun slowly rose over the horizon, Waves crashed of the beach.


    Time seemed to stand still in that moment.


    Ophelia was momentarily stunned by what had happened.


    Phoebe had rushed over without a second thought and shielded Ophelia from the bullet.


    Phoebe should be trying to protect Keh.


    Phoebe fell to the ground clutching her wounded shoulder, her extremely pale. Her eyes were tearful as she stared unblinkingly at Keh. Phoebe struggled to say, "Kenny... I won''t Let anyone.. Hurt You Not even... The person you... Love most..."


    Ophelia was quite shocked by Phoebe''s actions.


    Ophelia wondered, ''So, is she saying that she really took the bullet for me?"


    If Phoebe hadn''t suddenly rushed out, that bullet might have hit Ophelia in the chest.


    Ophelia felt somewhat grateful.


    Keh''s shoulders shook as he spun Ophelia around. His trembling hands gripped her shoulders, while his cold, sharp eyes locked intensely on her. He asked, "Ophelia, are you trying to get yourself killed?"


    His face was pale, his eyes filled with rage.


    Thankfully, the bullet didn''t hit Ophelia.


    At that instant, Keh''s heart nearly stopped. If that bullet had struck Ophelia, he would have riddled Ronan with bullets in retaliation


    Ronan held his injured hand, and when he saw the bullet hadn''t hit either Keh or Ophelia, an even more pained expression appeared on his face.


    Keh spoke sternly, "Ophelia, heed my words! Should you ever entertain such recklessness again, I will ensure you live to regret it. And if you manage to survive, I will personally deliver you to your demise!" Ophelia swallowed hard, not wanting to challenge his empty threats.


    She thought, "Could he really do it?"


    Ophelia just said, "Shouldn''t we try to help her first?"


    Regardless of Phoebe''s reasons, she got hurt because of Ophelia They couldn''t just let Phoebe die there.


    Keh took a deep breath, hisplexion gradually returning to normal. Then he looked down at Phoebe lying on the ground.


    He remarked, "I''m not a doctor. Caleb, take her to the hospital."


    After saying that, he took Ophelia''s hand and walked right past Phoebe.


    Mon, Nov


    Phoebe''s pale face showed a sh of hurt. She wondered, That? Just like that?


    Phoebe could only catch a side view of Keh''s long legs and couldn''t even see his facial expression.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Keh and Ophelia passed by Phoebe, and she could feel that Keh didn''t give her a second look.


    Phoebe was so disappointed, and cold sweat continuously dripped down her forehead.


    In the Sinir Manor, Ronany half-conscious on the ground.


    Equally barely alive was the man who had earlier hurt Ophelia.


    He had been shot in the leg and arm, barely surviving, with his hands and feet tied up and ck tape over his mouth.


    Ophelia was sitting on the sofa covered in a coat.


    Keh crouched in front of her, tending to the wound on her forehead. His eyes were full of concern.


    Fortunately, the injury wasn''t serious,


    Keh stretched out his hand, and Caleb handed him a damp towel.


    Keh gently wiped Ophelia''s face, cleaning away the dark red, dried blood.


    Once the antiseptic had dried, Keh applied a square medical bandage to Ophelia''s wound.


    Her sweet and delicate face looked even more fragile and pitiful with the bandage on her forehead.


    Keh rose to his feet, his demeanor transitioning from gentle and attentive to one that exuded a chilling aura as he gazed at the two individuals on the floor.


    He stood up and pulled Ophelia close, shielding her eyes and ears in his arms.


    "Don''t be afraid," he softly reassured her.


    Suddenly, there were three loud gunshots.


    The man, with his hands and feet tied,y on the ground convulsing fiercely. His eyes were wide open as he fell into a pool of his own blood, with a torrent of blood spilling from his mouth


    Ronan was scared out of his wits by the scene, clutching his chest with his unharmed hand.


    "Keh! You bastard, if you have the guts, just kill me!" Ronan shouted in a hoarse, aged voice.


    Keh sneered, "Well, consider yourself fortunate the bullet missed her. Do you really think you''d be alive right now if it had hit her?"


    Ronan''s face turned pale with anger. He red at Keh and cursed, "You monster! You harmed your own kin, and now you want to kill me too! You''ll have a terrible end! You''ll be tom apart and go to hell" Hearing these curses, Ophelia clenched her fists tightly, her clear eyes now turning cold.


    The sound of a bullet being loaded echoed clearly in the silent room as Keh smiled, his finger slowly pulling the trigger.


    A serious voice shouted at the door, "Stop!"


    However, Keh didn''t listen to the voice and pulled the trigger as soon as it sounded.


    "Bang!"


    The bullet zipped past Ronan''s car.


    Ronan''s breath caught for a moment, and he fainted in shock.


    B


    Ophelia turned her head towards the voice''s source and saw a tall and imposing figure standing against the light at the doorway.


    His shape and outline were somewhat simr to Keh''s


    11


    No one was behind him, yet he carried amanding presence as if he held a high position. He strode towards the hall with an intense sense of dominance.


    As the warm sunlight touched the man''s shoulder, the outlines that were hidden in the darkness gradually became clear.


    Ophelia had only nced at Victor quicklyst time at the cemetery, but now she could see his face clearly.


    Victor bore a striking resemnce to Keh, as if meticulously crafted by God.


    Even though Victor was nearly fifty, his face showed no signs of aging, only maturity.


    This was probably what Keh would look like in about twenty years.


    Keh tossed the gun in his hand to Caleb, his eyes never looking at Victor.


    Victor frowned slightly. His gaze shifted from Keh to Ophelia on the couch, and only then did his expression slightly


    rx


    "She wasn''t seriously hurt, so why bother?" Victor''s voice was low and stern, devoid of emotion, as if he was either negotiating or holding back his anger.


    The e way Victor looked at Keh was not how one would look at their son, but instead like a stranger.


    Hearing Victor''s words, Keh finally slowly turned to him.


    Their eyes met, and suddenly a tense atmosphere filled the room


    Victor stated, "I''ll take your grandfather away, ensuring he never returns to Denex and never harmis Ophelia again. Your focus should be on running thepany, and we will maintain our distance from you" This didn''t sound like something a father would say to his son.


    However, if Victor had been a better father, none of this would have happened.


    Seeing that Keh still wasn''t budging, Victor exhaled deeply.


    Victor asked, "So what do you want me to do? Just stand by and watch my son kill my father?"

 Jilted Bride 159

    as Victor said in a more serious tone, his expression remained steady and dignified, showing no trace of emotion.


    Victor continued, "I don''t want to dig into what you''ve been doing in Denex these past two years. Patrick is my son, and you too, but I never thought things would get this far. That''s enough."


    Hearing Victor''s words, Ophelia, who had previously been indiferent, became dissatisfied.


    She asked, "Enough? Do you have the right to say that? When Patrick repeatedly tried to hurt Kenny and was after him, where were you to tell him that''s enough? And when Ronan shot at Kenny, you just watched your father try to kill your son! "Well, you''re the one who should shut up and leave. You can take this old bastard today, but if it happens again, Kenny might consider your family ties, but I won''t."


    Victor was taken aback, pausing in his attempt to help Roman, as his gaze slowly moved to Ophelia nearby.


    Victor seemed surprised that Ophelia dared to speak to him like that.


    In his whole life, he had never been lectured by a youngdy before.


    Victor thought she was quite courageous.


    He remained expressionless, like an elder tolerating a younger one''s mistakes, casually looking away without responding, as if she wasn''t there.


    Victor said, "Kenny, I''m leaving. Take care of yourself and don''t always get angry."


    After that, Victor left with Ronan.


    Keh''s jaw slightly twitched, and his eyes were filled with hatred.


    Ophelia recognized that expression; it was the same one he had worn when Ivy spoke those words to him in Mgia.


    Ophelia held Keh''s hand and softened her tone, "Didn''t you say you''d cook me something at home! I''m hungry Keh snapped back to reality, looking down a Ophelia, but suddenly everything went dark.


    He propped his hand against his forehead, closed his eyes for a few seconds, and then the darkness faded away.


    "What''s wrong?" Ophelia looked up at Keh with concern.


    He had been searching for Ophelia all night, so he must be very tired.


    Keh gazed at Ophelia, his palm gently resting on her smooth cheek, his thumb softly caressing her skin. It appeared as though he could never get enough of looking at her.


    "I''m fine. Let''s go home," he said softly, a hint of tiredness in his voice,


    "Okay," Ophelia replied and nodded, linking her arm with his as they boarded the yacht together.


    Ophelia wasn''t aware of the issues between Keh and Victor, nor did she want to ask Keh about them; she didn''t want to bring back any heavy memories to him.


    She just wanted Keh to be happy, to be that overly proud and arrogant man he once was


    Ophelia believed they would have their own life together in the future.


    Finally, they left the ind.


    Once they reached the shore, Ophelia realized how close the ind was to the slums,


    The West End docks were originally located in the slums and onlyter moved to their current spot.


    9961


    At Rosewood Manor, Chloe sat on the single-seater sofa, facing the door. Her legs were together, elbows on her knees, fingers interlocked as she prayed that Ophelia was safe.


    Her eyes asionally nced at the man lying across the couch next to her, with Wyatt sprawled on top of him, both asleep.


    Chloe grabbed a nket and draped it over Wyatt.


    Just as she sat down, her gaze involuntarily shifted towards Noah''s lower half, where a dinosaur tail conveniently covered his Tap.


    Chloe pulled her gaze back and continued to look towards the door


    asionally, she nced over at the two sleeping people.


    After watching them for a while, Chloe got up and took a nket, covering Noah.


    Noah pubbed his nose with his hand, opened his eyes, and was in the middle of yawning when he found himself locking eyes with Chloe who was covering him with a nket. Suddenly, a familiar feeling swiftly took hold of him


    Noah''s heart raced again as he blinked in confusion. He asked, "Have we met before?"


    Chloe frowned, regretting she had stood up to cover him


    "No," she replied in an even tone.


    Noah mumbled, "Oh..."


    Noah stretched his arms, gazing at Wyatt in his arms, and smiled dotingly, which stunned Chloe.


    She quickly picked up Wyatt from him, avoiding eye contact.


    Chloe said, "You''d better go upstairs and rest! No need to keep waiting with us."


    Wyatt was not asfortable as earlier, rubbing his eyes while lying on Chloe''s shoulder and blinking.


    Noah said, "It''s okay. I''m just really worried about that kid. If I didn''t have to stay here to keep you and the baby safe, I would have gone with them myself."


    His words were a bit awkward, as if implying Chloe and Wyatt were a burden.


    "Like we need your protection. Chloe muttered softly, obviously unheard by Noah


    "It''s already dawn, Why don''t you take a rest?" Noah sat up from the couch and said, "It''s still warm here."


    Chloe said nothing, turning her head away, and ignoring Noah.


    He suggested. "If you''re not going to sleep, you can let this little thingy herefortably"


    Wyatt muttered, "Mommy... Holding me like this is ufortable..."


    Chloe nced at Wyatt in her arms and asked gently. "Didn''t Mommy always hold you like this before?"


    She didn''t expect Wyatt to have actually learned to say no to her.


    Chloe mumbled, "Well, okay!"


    Hearing the cute whimpers from Wyatt, Chloe sighed and gentlyid him back on the sofa.


    Noah covered Wyatt with a nket.


    Chloe felt that the nket didn''t suit Wyatt, and she was also not satisfied with the person who had covered him with it.


    Chloe ended up tossing the one Noah used aside and reced it with her own.


    Your kid is quite good-looking, but he doesn''t really resemble you, Noah joked cheekily, only to be met with a sharp re. "Ahem.... I was just saying!" Noah exined.


    He thought. Her re''s terrifying!"


    Noah asked again, "By the way, where did you learn your hacking skills? You''re almost as good as me."


    Not getting a response from Chloe, he continued, "I don''t even remember who taught me. My memory isn''t great, so I''ve mostly forgotten. Whoever taught me must be furious if they saw how I''m doing now!" The more Noahughed, the darker Chloe''s expression became


    She was a


    almost driven to the brink of anger.


    He said, "Well, it''s not easy taking care of a kid by yourself. I heard from the little guy that his dad passed away. Is that true? It must''ve been tough on you. How did his dad die?"


    Chloe looked up at Noah dressed in a green dinosaur onesie.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "A ne crash," she stated.


    Noah said, "Well, that''s quite something. I was in a ne crash too back in the day, but I managed to survive! Lucky, right?"


    Chloe said, "Yeah. Really lucky


    "Don''t give me that look. I was lucky, unlike your husband who wasn''t so fortunate," said Noah

 Jilted Bride 160

    Noah''sment was a bit annoying.


    Seeing Chloe showing signs of anger, Noah quickly stood up and said, "Uh, how about I get you a ss of water?" Chloe took a deep breath.


    As the tall green dinosaur strode by her, she found her thoughts in disarray and struggled to decipher her own emotions.


    Chloe thought. If it weren''t for that face, he wouldn''t look simr to him at all.


    After a while, a few cars pulled up at the entrance of Rosewood Manor.


    Seeing Ophelia step out of the car, Chloe immediately stood up and walked over quickly.


    Ophelia was draped in a ck coat, her outfit pure white, with her ck hair cascading over her shoulders. She looked purely beautiful. Standing next to Keh, she appeared gentle and graceful. Ophelia looked the same, yet her temperament now contrasted sharply with her usual cool and rebellious demeanor.


    Chloe felt that Ophelia was meant to be like this, cherished and loved. Ophelia deserved to have someone to rely on and care for her.


    Now Ophelia was no longer alone, unsupported, or left to endure her suffering in solitude.


    Ophelia called out to her, "Chloe."


    Chloe frowned, immediately noticing the bandage on Ophelia''s forehead. "Do you have any other injuries?" asked Chloe.


    Her gaze scanned Ophelia up and down.


    Ophelia replied, "Nope, I went to the hospital beforeing back. Don''t worry."


    In the car, Keh exined what had happened. It turned out Ophelia''s call for help was identally made to Chloe. Luckily, it was Chloe,


    If Chloe hadn''t noticed something was wrong so quickly, Keh might not have found Ophelia in time.


    Noah swaggered out, holding a steaming cup of water.


    He said, "It''s great you''re fine. You know what they say, surviving a big ordeal brings good fortune!"


    No sooner had Noah finished than three intense res shot at him.


    "Did I say something wrong again?" Noah scratched his head.


    He wondered, Isn''t it a wonderful blessing?"


    "Since you''re back safe and sound, I''ll take my leave," Chloe said and turned around to the living room. She picked up Wyatt and pulled the hood over his head. Ophelia said, "It''s still early. Have breakfast before you go. Let Wyatt sleep a little longer."


    "No, thanks," Chloe replied.


    Wyatt yawned and said, "Ophelia, you''re back. Did you get injured? Does it hurt?"


    99%


    Ophelia said, "It doesn''t hurt, Don''t worry, Wyatt."


    Chloe nced at Keh, nodded slightly, and without much expression, said, "Goodbye."Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    After speaking, she walked right past Noah without even ncing at him.


    Noah asked, "Hey! Aren''t you going to drink the water I poured for you?"


    Ophelia looked a bit confused and turned to Noah, asking. "Did you upset Chloe?


    Noah looked innocent and said, "No way! I just asked how Wyatt dad died. Does that really count as upsetting her?"


    Ophelia almost rolled her eyes, thinking, ''Doesn''t it?


    Ophelia swallowed her frustration and ignored Noah. No wonder Chloe left so quickly.


    "Let''s go," said Ophelia.


    Keh took her hand and guided her upstairs.


    Noah was left standing there, his eyes automatically trailing in the direction Chloe had gone,


    His heart was pounding hard


    He wondered, ''Oh no, am I going to die?"


    99%


    Inside the house, Ophelia was taking a shower when Keh got a call from Fiy.


    He still had no idea what had happenedst night. As the party was winding down, the hosts suddenly added a hot spring event on the cruise.


    Fiy was taken to the hot spring and fell asleep afterward.


    When he woke up, it was already morning.


    The cruise had docked, and the


    e party was over.


    "What''s going on? Did something happen?" Fiy asked, puzzled


    "No. Looks like the Carnegie family isn''t very helpful," Keh said in a cold voice, not allowing Fiy any chance to ask. more questions before hanging up.


    The sound of water in the bathroom stopped.


    Before long, a soft and gentle voice came from inside, Keh, can you help me get my clothes? I forgot to bring them in" Keh smiled, the coldness from his eyes just moments agopletely vanished. He walked over and picked up the clothes next to him, while a small and tender hand stretched out from the bathroom


    door.


    Ophelia asked, "Keh, where are my clothes?" She withdrew her hand, feeling helpless


    "Call me honey, Keh said.


    He enjoyed being called like that.


    Ophelia said, "Honey, give me my clothes"


    Keh said, "You''ve got an injury on your head, so let me help you."


    His tone was affectionate and caring.


    "Okay," Ophelia agreed readily.


    She lifted her gaze, her bright and beautiful eyes looking at Keh.


    She stood on her tiptoes and kissed his lips.


    She employed a small ruse to enlist Keh''s assistance.


    Keh squinted, his eyes forming a captivating crease that stretched from the inner to the outer corners. She actually pinned him against the wall,


    In the evening, Keh wore a ck turtleneck and gray coat as he briskly walked into a private hospital.


    The elevator door slid open, revealing a hallway on the third floor packed with bodyguards. Keh was alone, yet no one dared to stop him.


    Ms Davidson, Mr. Sinir is here, a middle-aged housekeeper reported as she entered the ward. Phoebe''s eyes immediately snapped open. "Kenny? Did you say Kenny is here?" she asked. Phoebe''s pale face suddenly showed surprise and joy.


    She knew Keh woulde to visit her.


    Seeing her expression, the housekeeper swallowed the words she was about to say.


    Phoebe urgently said, "Quick, help me sit up." Any movement that strained the gunshot wound on her right shoulder sent aching pain throughout her entire body. Phoebe''s face and lips turned even paler. She looked so weak, brushing her hair away with her left hand.


    A bodyguard outside pushed the door open, and Keh stepped into the ward.


    "Kenny Phoebe''s voice was soft and weak.


    Every time she saw Keh, her heart raced, and she had practiced saying "Kenny in her mind countless times.


    "How are you doing?" Keh asked, lifting his gaze to Phoebe without much expression.


    Hearing Keh''s concerned words, Phoebe got even more flustered.


    She replied understandingly, "Don''t worry. I''m fine."


    Though Phoebe said so, the pain etched on her pale face and brow told him she was seriously injured.


    ww

 Jilted Bride 161

    Keh remarked, "Since you''re fine, then get back to Mgia." Keh''s words were so cruel, piercing straight into Phoebe''s heart. The warmth she had imagined from moments ago vanished instantly. Phoebe''s face went even paler, and she thought she must have misheard.


    But seeing Keh''s emotionless face, she confirmed that she hadn''t misheard.


    Did he ask her to go back to Mgia?


    "Kenny... Ahem... What... What do you mean by this?" Phoebe asked, almost crying, her tear-filled eyes fixed on Keh.


    Keh gave her a sideways nce and asked, "Do you really think you''re so clever, or that this n of yours is perfect? Do you think that by getting yourself kidnapped too, no one would suspect you?


    "Have you ever considered the consequences of hurting Ophelia? Do you think I''d be afraid of the Davidson family?"


    Those were the most words Keh had ever said to Phoebe.


    But not a single word was what she wanted to hear.


    "Kenny, is this really how you see me?" As Phoebe spoke, tears left trails down her pale face, and the bandage on her right


    arm started to soak through with blood again.


    She continued, "You know my status in the Davidson family. It was your grandfather who kidnapped me to make the Davidson family act against you, but I didn''t agree. Kenny, you know I would never let anyone hurt you." Phoebe wiped away the tears on her chin with her left hand and shifted her shoulder, gasping with pain.


    She added, "Ouch... Oh... If I really wanted Ms. Spencer to get hurt, I could have just not taken the bullet for her."


    A fineyer of sweat appeared on Phoebe''s forehead.


    There was a brief silence in the ward.


    After a while, Phoebe said, "Kenny, I know you''re still upset with me, ming me for always following Aunt''s ns. To be honest, she did suggest Ie to Heloria.


    "But I promise, I''m not here to ruin things between you and Ms. Spencer. Trust me, I won''t do anything to hurt her in the future."


    "You better not," Keh said and looked at Phoebe with his sharp and cold eyes.


    As he turned away, Phoebe noticed a small red mark on his neck


    She felt upset and held back the tears.


    "I need to rest now. Fiona, please show him out," Phoebe said and closed her eyes, her brows slightly furrowed, as tears sparkled beneath her tremblingshes. Keh left the ward without looking at Phoebe again.


    After he left, Phoebe opened her eyes.


    09:46 Tue,


    Her chest heaved with emotion, and her eyes burned with frustration and defiance.


    After Fiona Walters saw Keh off, she returned to the ward.


    "Have you looked into it? Who managed to break through the signal jammer?" Phoebe''s voice was cold, and even though her face was pale, she no longer seemed frail. Fiona pursed her lips and said, "Ms. Davidson, there''s news about Ms. Emma Davidson."


    "What?" Phoebe asked and frowned, a glimpse of fear and astonishment in her eyes.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Phoebe pondered, ''Isn''t she dead? How is that possible?''


    Fiona said, "Yes, she''s in Heloria. The person who breached our signal jammer is most likely her."


    Hearing this, Phoebe suddenly felt short of breath, her body hair standing on end.


    Phoebe thought, ''Is she still alive?


    ''She has disappeared for five years. How could she suddenly show up?"


    "Find her, no matter what!" Phoebe''s eyes were still filled with panic, and her eyebrows knitted even tighter.


    **


    The next day, Ophelia''s forehead wound could now get wet.


    She carefully washed her face, and as she came out of the bathroom, her phone on the table started vibrating non-stop.


    Keh went to thepany this morning, and Ophelia had wanted to go to the studio.


    However, Keh insisted she stay home to recover.


    Opheliained in her heart, ''It''s just a tiny scratch. Do I really need to stay home to rest? Luckily, the Carnegie family didn''t know, or they wouldn''t let me get out of bed. The caller ID showed James'' name.


    As soon as Ophelia picked up the phone, she heard a heavy sigh from the other end. James said, "You gotta check Twitter!"


    James didn''t want to say anything more. His tone held a hint of helplessness.


    Ophelia was intrigued, but despite multiple attempts, she was unable to log in to Twitter.


    It seemed to be down.


    Ophelia wondered, ''What kind of shocking news broke out?''


    About a dozen minutester, Ophelia finally managed to check Twitter.


    The top trending topic had the hashtag. "Thomas and Sharon Got Hitched".


    Ophelia was surprised.


    2


    Thomas had posted: [The world is vast, brimming with fireworks. You are everything and everywhere.]


    He had attached a photo of himself and Sharon in their wedding attire, along with two marriage certificates, on a background of flowers.


    09:46 Tue, Nov 19 B BB


    Sharon wrote: [Starting today, I will never be alone again.]


    She attached the same photos that Thomas had posted.


    Ophelia was shocked.


    Then she looked through thements below. In Sharon''sment section, Thomas wrote: [Loving you marks the beginning of my lifelong romance.]


    In thement section of Thomas'' post, Sharon wrote: [You appear at the perfect timing of all the beautiful things I''ve encountered.]


    Thomas and Sharon got married so quickly, which stunned Ophelia.


    Ophelia called Sharon directly.


    "Elia, I was just about to exin to you! It''s not like what you think!" Sharon exined.


    "Then what is it?" asked Ophelia.


    Sharon sighed and said, "Didn''t we get seen living together during the New Year holiday? Actually, we just had dinner together, and then...


    "Anyway, I don''t really know how to exin. Our parents found out about it, so we just got the marriage certificate to keep them calm! Since it''s Valentine''s Day, we made it official. There''s really nothing between Thomas and me!" Ophelia almost rolled her eyes.


    Not hearing Ophelia respond, Sharon quickly continued to exin, "Really, we haven''t even kissed! Oh Elia, I''m super confused too. How did we end up getting married without even realizing it? Is it toote to regret it now?" Ophelia asked, "Well... So what do you think about Thomas?"


    As an observer, Ophelia seemed to have understood the situation.


    Thomas must have been plotting for quite a while.


    Sharon said, "My thoughts? He''s just a boy to me; I''m three years older than him! How could I feel anything for him? When was in middle school, he was just a kid!


    "Lately, after spending time with him, I think he seems different from how I used to know him. I never thought I''d be interested in a guy younger than me, assuming they''d be immature. But he''s actually quite mature and very considerate. "You wouldn''t believe it. Once, I was filming a scene in the snow and happened to be on my period. Somehow, he found out and came to visit with lots of heat pads, hot chocte, and other stuff..."


    Talking about Thomas, Sharon started detailing every surprisingly thoughtful thing he had done.


    Ophelia didn''t have anything else to do, so she just listened quietly.


    Sharon went on, "Today, there were so many people getting their marriage certificates. He woke me up before sunrise.


    "I assumed getting a certificate would be straightforward, but I didn''t anticipate needing photos, paperwork, waiting in line, undergoing a premarital health check, filling out forms, and all the rest.


    "It was quite a hassle. Yet, he managed everything so efficiently. If it weren''t for his trembling while reciting the vows, I''d have thought he''d done this before!"

 Jilted Bride 162

    After hearing all this, Ophelia smiled happily.


    The love story of Sharon and Thomas was indeed sweet and touching.


    Ophelia could tell from Sharon''s tone that she was grinning while recounting the stories.


    Ophelia pondered, ''This silly beauty hasn''t realized she''s already head over heels in love.


    ''She probably hasn''t noticed that Thomas has been interested in her from the start.''


    Sharon asked, "What should I do? I''m feeling so weird right now Elia, how did you feel when you and your husband got married?" Ophelia was slightly surprised, thinking, ''Me and Keh?''


    "We..." Ophelia was momentarily at a loss for words. She asked, "Do we have to go in person to get the marriage license?


    Ophelia never considered this matter before.


    She wasn''t sure if she got the license with Keh.


    Sharon said, "Of course! You must go in person to get the license. I''ve seen people treat it like a big ceremony, wearing veils and everything. Thomas even prepared one for me, but I thought it was strange and didn''t wear it. "You also have to read the wedding vows; you wouldn''t believe it. Thomas nearly bit his tongue while saying them..."


    Ophelia chatted with Sharon for a bit longer.


    After hanging up, Ophelia stood up and went to the study.


    It wasn''t long before Noah, who was napping downstairs, heard the noise of construction.


    Following the stairs up, he saw the study door wide open, the room aplete mess, with books scattered all over and drawers in utter chaos.


    Noah shouted, "Holy crap, we''ve been robbed! You daring thief! How dare you steal in broad daylight?"


    Gathering his courage, Noah entered the study and saw Ophelia sitting on the gray shaggy rug, facing a dark gray safe that was taller than her by a head.


    "Ophelia? What are you looking for? If you want something, why don''t you just call Keh?" asked Noah.


    He couldn''t understand the source of the renovation noise.


    Ophelia remained silent, clutching arge power drill. As soon as she plugged it in and gently squeezed the trigger, the drill bit spun at high speed, producing a deafening "buzz." Noah was stunned and said, "You know you might set off the safe''s rm system like that..."


    Ophelia turned her head slightly, looking at a tangled mess of ck wires on the floor and the rm system.


    She said, "Already disarmed


    Her voice was calm, and she looked expressionless, like a mischievous little devil.


    Noah swallowed hard and quickly went downstairs to call Keh.


    He said, "Keh, your wife is about to tear the house apart! You need toe back, quick!"


    In no time, Keh rushed back to Rosewood Manor, where Ophelia had already tidied up the study.


    Only a dismantled safey helplessly on the ground.


    Ophelia sat at the desk, searching for the model of the safe, and nning to buy a new one.


    Keh didn''t even change his shoes. He went straight upstairs. Seeing Ophelia sitting there unharmed, he secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Keh slowly approached Ophelia and carefully pushed aside the strands of hair on her forehead to check her injury. Only after examining it did his gaze fall on the dismantled safe. He asked, "What are you looking for?"Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    12%!


    "The marriage certificate!" Ophelia looked up at Keh, filled with grievance. She shouted, "Keh, don''t tell me that for over half a year, we''ve been a couple without a license!"


    She nearly blurted out that not only in the past six months, but in fact, they had never had a marriage certificate at all. This possibility had never crossed her mind.


    During their previous divorce, Ophelia had drafted a divorce agreement and assumed it was done once Keh signed it.


    It wasn''t until earlier, when Ophelia looked online, that she realized that both parties must personally handle the process, whether it was getting married or divorced, at the authoritative office. Keh leaned against the desk, trapping Ophelia in front of him.


    He acknowledged his mistake with a surprisingly good attitude.


    He said, "I was wrong, my dear Ophelia."


    Hearing his maic and tender voice, Ophelia was captivated.


    His apology was surprising, and his earnest attitude was unexpected.


    Ophelia looked at Keh with an odd expression, and her earlier aggressive demeanor instantly vanished.


    Keh remarked, "Pick a day."


    Ophelia asked, "What?"


    "Pick a date to get our license," he said, leaning closer. His eyes were affectionate and sincere.


    Ophelia wrapped her arms around his neck, staring right at Keh with a charming yet sly look.


    She stated, "Alright, until we apply for our license, we''ll sleep in separate rooms. No sharing a room until we''re married."


    Hearing this, Keh turned serious and frowned instantly. He refused, "No way.".


    His voice turned icy, leaving no room for negotiation.


    Ophelia said, "Mr. Sinir, living together like a couple without a license is not eptable!"


    She even called Keh "Mr. Sinir"!


    Keh raised an eyebrow with an openly arrogant attitude.


    09:46


    Tue, Nov 19 G


    I 24 % 72%


    Ophelia asked, "Is that the way you apologize? You kept me uninformed. If I didn''t ask you about it, when were you going to tell me? Were you nning to just avoid it forever?" Ophelia let go of his neck, the smile disappearing from her face


    Keh stood up straight and untied his tie.


    "In my heart, we are already married. I transferred all my assets to you when you acknowledged being my wife. Without you, I have nothing. I''m basically working for you, and now you want us to sleep in separate rooms?" Keh asked. Ophelia was shocked.


    Seeing her expression, Keh nced at the safe.


    Keh asked, "Didn''t you see?"


    Ophelia was so focused on finding the marriage certificate that she didn''t even pay attention to what was written on those other documents.


    She pondered, ''Is he out of his mind?


    ''He gave everything to me, so what would he do now?


    ''Did he give those items to me as a wedding gift?''


    "Now you know? So, aside from sleeping in separate rooms, I''ll agree to anything you want." Keh''s voice softened as he looked at Ophelia with adoration. It seemed that all he wanted was her.


    With Keh looking at her like that, Ophelia was charmed.


    She said, "No touching me until we get our marriage license." She had to set some boundaries.


    "Not even if we just cuddle?" Keh asked, looking quite pitiful


    "You know what I''m talking about!" Ophelia said.


    Keh was just trying to persuade her.


    "Alright, I see. You call the shots," Keh said and gently ruffled Ophelia''s hair. Then he whispered, "When you need me, I''ll give it my all."

 Jilted Bride 163

    That night, Ophelia picked a date, which was June 1st.


    Keh lost his cool and questioned, "Little one, do you realize that June 1st is over three months away? Are you seriously asking me to lead an abstinent life during the prime of my life?" "I''m just asking you to save your energy, so when I need you, you''ll be ready to give it your all!" Ophelia said with a sly smile.


    Keh was momentarily taken aback by his own words.


    He wondered, ''For when she needs me? She only takes her initiative once in six months.


    Keh held Ophelia by the waist, pinning her beneath him, and said, "I''ve got plenty of stamina, so there''s no need to conserve energy."


    Ophelia didn''t dodge or shy away. Instead, she hooked her arms around Keh''s neck and leaned in, kissing his lips gently.


    Keh''s eyes turned passionate as he stared at Ophelia for a while, as if he wanted to have her right now.


    Ophelia said, "Sorry, Mr. Sinir, but I''ve got my period. Even if I want you now, I guess it''s not gonna happen!" Her eyes, usually looking so innocent, sparkled now, arousing Keh''s desire. Seeing her soft pink lips move, Keh gave her a deep kiss..


    Even though he couldn''t engage in sexual activity with her, he didn''t refrain from doing all other things.


    Ophelia regretted her decision. She realized that seeing a tempting yet unattainable woman only intensified a man''s desperation.


    It was only when Ophelia''s breathing becamebored and her lips turned a darker shade of red that Keh finally released her, pulling her close as they drifted off to sleep.


    It appeared that Ophelia''s suffering was just as much as she had anticipated.


    ***


    The next day, Keh left early to work.


    Ophelia had a lot of work to do after the holidays too. Kevin''s With Love as My Cause was ready to start filming, and Rex Reyes needed to finalize a contract with SN Entertainment. Ophelia also had to visit thepanies given to her by the Reyes and Huxley families.


    Ophelia held all the official seals for the Reyes family''s jewelry business.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Just as she was about to leave, Jackson sent her a message, saying that the analysis results of the slum''s seawaterposition he helped with were out.


    Ophelia didn''t quite understand the two water quality reports.


    Jackson seemed to have anticipated this and included a voice message.


    Jackson said, "In simple terms, the water quality is severely substandard. It contains numerous trace elements and pollutants, along with extremely high levels of microorganisms. "This water should be ssified as polluted seawater, at level four or higher, rendering it unsafe for marine life."


    09:46 Tue, Nov 19 B BB


    Ophelia: [Is that all? Didn''t you find any toxic substances?]


    Jackson: [No.]


    Ophelia: [Are you sure?]


    Jackson: [Yeah.]


    Ophelia was surprised, pondering, ''Wasn''t it said that toxic materials were used in thend remation project years ago?


    ''Could it be that after all these years, the toxic substances have settled?


    "That''s tricky.


    ''If that''s the case, the scope of the investigation might need to be expanded, which would require approval from the political authorities.


    The Glimmer Jewelry of the Reyes family was on the 28th floor of the Centrispire Tower.


    It was not far from the Sinir Group, just two blocks away. Ophelia could have lunch with Keh at noon.


    A representative from Glimmer Jewelry contacted Ophelia and said, "Ms. Spencer, have you arrived yet? I apologize for the inconvenience, but I''m quite upied at the moment. I''ve dispatched my secretary to greet you. She is wearing a brown work outfit. Have you spotted her?" Ophelia got out of the car and indeed saw a woman in a brown work outfit standing at the entrance, her long wavy hair tied in a low ponytail.


    "Yeah," Ophelia answered.


    She hung up the phone and walked to the woman.


    As Ophelia drew near the woman, she overheard her speaking to her phone, "Ourpany''s getting a new CEO. I wonder if he''ll be a wealthy, good-looking man."


    Ophelia raised her eyebrow, thinking the woman might be disappointed.


    The woman said, "Alright, gotta go now."


    Then she put away her phone, turned around, and looked around before her eyesnded on Ophelia. She gave Ophelia an once-over from head to toe.


    "Are... Are you... Mr... Oh, no... Ms. Spencer?" The secretary, Lily Sanders, who was about the same age as Ophelia, looked pretty and gentle. Ophelia gave a slight nod.


    Lily couldn''t stop staring at Ophelia, as if she had a crush on her or something.


    Lily thought, ''I didn''t expect the new CEO to be such a gorgeousdy.


    "This way, please!" said Lily.


    Ophelia followed Lily, swiped her card to enter the lobby, and took the elevator.


    Beforeing, Ophelia had called the manager, asking for a low-key visit, so he only sent a secretary to meet her.


    09:46


    Tue, Nov 19 B


    In the elevator, Lily kept sneaking peeks at Ophelia, her eyes filled with admiration.


    "Ms. Spencer, may I ask you a personal question?" Lily asked cautiously, "How old are you?"


    Ophelia was surprised by the question. After all, it was their first meeting.


    72%


    Lily quickly exined, "Please don''t get me wrong, Ms. Spencer Actually, I write online novels in my spare time, and when I saw you, I was instantly inspired.


    "You are just so captivating, perfectly fitting the image of a handsome female CEO that I have in my mind. My next novel is going to be called Mistress and Muse: A Cozy Conundrum." Ophelia raised an eyebrow, with Keh''s face popping into her mind.


    Indeed, Keh could be considered Ophelia''s muse.


    "I''m 21, but I don''t know my birth date," Ophelia said with a smile, a hint of bitterness passing through her eyes.


    She was an orphan who didn''t even know her birthday.


    Lily realized how abrupt she was, immediately apologized, and mped her mouth shut, feeling a bit regretful.


    Soon, they arrived on the 28th floor.


    Lily led Ophelia to the reception room and poured her a cup of coffee. Lily said, "Ms. Spencer, please sit and wait for a bit or look around. I''ll go get Mr. Sampson for you." Ophelia said, "Okay."


    Then Ophelia stood up and took a quick look at thepany''s size.


    It was more than three times bigger than La Reverie''s studio.


    Someone suddenly asked, "Are you the designer here for an interview?"


    Ophelia heard azy voice which sounded to be speaking to her


    That voice seemed familiar.


    As Ophelia turned her head, she instantly recognized the familiar face.


    Enemies were bound to meet again.


    The woman standing before Ophelia, d in a striking ivory suit, was Cecilia Duncan, daughter of Harris Duncan. Ophelia hadn''t expected Cecilia to work here.


    She assumed thatdies raised in political families would mostly choose a career in politics.


    Cecilia was clearly surprised and slightly impressed, as she hadn''t expected to see Ophelia there.


    Seeing Ophelia reminded Cecilia of what happened on the yacht that day. Even after so much time, Cecilia couldn''t shake off the humiliation.


    Ophelia had deliberately gotten red wine spilled all over Cecilia


    However, being Harris'' daughter, Cecilia was asked to apologize.


    "Here for a designer interview?" Cecilia asked with a smug look, her eyes showing her scorn.


    Tue, Nov 19 B


    09:46


    Cecilia thought, ''Apparently, her status in the Carnegie family isn''t as high as the rumors suggest. She''s even going to interviews!''


    Cecilia said directly, "Sorry, I don''t think you''re right for the position."


    72%


    "Did you make your decision so quickly? May I ask what your reasons are for thinking I''m not fit for the job?" Ophelia asked calmly.


    Cecilia responded, "As the HR Director, I hold the authority to determine your employment status. Frankly, your name doesn''t ring a bell in the context of our design team." SEND GIF

 Jilted Bride 164

    Ophelia nodded slightly and said, "Then I think you''re not suited for your position."


    "What do you mean? What gives you the right to say that?" Cecilia asked, feeling amused. She approached Ophelia and noticed the light pink scar on her forehead, and immediately showed a look of understanding. Cecilia mused, "The scar on her forehead was probably from failing to get Mr. Sinir''s attention.''


    Cecilia stated, "If I''m not the right fit for this role, then who is? You''re merely a pawn, brought in by the Carnegies to forge a connection with the Sinir Group.


    "Do you genuinely believe that acquiring the title of Mrs. Sinir makes you superior? Ms. Spencer, don''t let your head swell. I''ve had the benefit of studying abroad, and I am more qualified for this position than you are." Cecilia raised her chin, her sharp voice immediately attracting the attention of several staff members who had juste out of the pantry.


    Someone asked, "Cecilia, who made you so upset?"


    Another one said, "Well, Cecilia, take it easy."


    The two staff members put down their cups and stood beside Cecilia,


    one on each side.


    Their gaze fell upon Ophelia across the room. She was dressed casually but attractive, with a decent sense of style.


    However, her attire was unremarkable, devoid of any recognizable brand names, and she wasn''t carrying a handbag. The staff members surmised that she was likely an impoverished college student attending an interview, who had inadvertently offended Cecilia. One of the staff members remarked, "Honestly, these days it seems like anyone can interview for a designer position at Glimmer Jewelry. Cecilia, don''t waste your energy getting mad at someone like that. It''s not worth it."


    The other staff member remained silent, scrutinizing Ophelia. She felt Ophelia seemed somewhat familiar.


    However, Ophelia looked at Cecilia calmly.


    Ophelia then said, "Firstly, as the HR Director, you haven''t even looked over the interviewee''s details. Secondly, even if you weren''t in the country before, you should have acquainted yourself with local designers. "You''re not concerned about embarrassing your father by getting this position through connections, are you?"Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "What are you talking about? I didn''t use any connections to get this job! Who the hell are you?" Cecilia retorted, her fists clenched, and anger simmered inside her.


    Just then, Lily came over with thepany head, Calvin Sampson.


    The staff members greeted Calvin, "Hi, Mr. Sampson."


    Upon seeing Calvin, Cecilia held herself back from striking Ophelia.


    Calvin, in his thirties, had his hair slicked back. His deep blue suit exuded quality, perfectly portraying the image of apany executive,


    Calvin said to Ophelia, "Hello, Ms. Spencer. I was busy handling something and couldn''t personallye downstairs to meet you. My apologies."


    Cecilia was taken aback, wondering, ''Why is Mr. Sampson being so polite to her?''


    "Lily, who is that?" the woman next to Cecilia asked, grabbing Lily''s arm.


    "Our new CEO! Isn''t she cool?" Lily gushed, admiration in her eyes.


    All three lookedpletely bewildered.


    Cecilia froze instantly.


    The woman who had spoken rudely to Ophelia earlier looked stunned and asked, "Is she the new CEO of ourpany?"


    The woman thought, ''Damn it! This is really bad. I''ve just offended the new CEO!''


    The other staff member pped her forehead and eximed, "I remember now! She''s the founder of La Reverie, Ophelia!" The woman asked, "What? Are you talking about the La Reverie that makes evening gowns? Is she the founder?" The two exchanged a nce, unconsciously swallowing, as their eyes turned to Cecilia standing in the middle. No wonder Ophelia was so certain earlier that Cecilia hadn''t reviewed the interviewees'' info.


    That was why Ophelia imed Cecilia didn''t know much about local designers.


    It turned out Cecilia had really secured the position because of her connections, not her skills.


    Feeling their gazes on her, Cecilia felt humiliated. Just moments ago, she was acting all high and mighty, and now she wished she could escape from this ce immediately. Cecilia red at Ophelia''s retreating figure, remembering all too well how she had been embarrassed twice because of Ophelia.


    *****


    Ophelia was just here to take a look, since Glimmer Jewelry was a long-establishedpany with its own creative vision and business channels.


    Thepany was operating efficiently, so Ophelia didn''t need to intervene. She entrusted its management to the capable Calvin.


    She nned to meet Keh for lunch.


    She wanted to learn more about the main processes and procedures rted to real estate development.


    The top-floor office of Sinir Tower, bright and spacious, was filled with a tense and uneasy atmosphere.


    Seated at the desk, Keh was bathed in light that poured in from the window. His face was split into a bright, warm half and a dark, intense half, mirroring the duality of his character. Everyone else remained quiet, not daring to make a sound or meet Keh''s intimidating gaze.


    Keh tapped his long fingers rhythmically against the armrest of his chair.


    Each tap struck directly at the hearts of his subordinates.,


    Just then, Mark''s phone suddenly rang.


    In that instant, Mark felt a chill run down his spine.


    He wondered, ''Who on earth is calling me at this time? Oh no, I''m doomed!''


    09:46 Tue, Nov 19 BBG.


    72%


    The moment Mark took out his phone, he immediately felt relieved.


    It was Ophelia. Mark felt like she was his savior at the moment.


    Mark picked up the phone and answered, "Hello, Ms. Spencer. Well, why did you call me?" His voice trembled uncontrobly.


    Ophelia said, "Has Keh had lunch yet?"


    Her voice was as sweet and gentle as ever.


    0


    Keh''s demeanor became significantly more rxed than it had been previously, which helped to alleviate the anxiety of his nervous staff.


    "No..." Mark replied.


    Ophelia exined, "Why are you so nervous? I tried calling Keh, but his phone''s off, so I called you."


    Feeling Keh''s cold gaze, Mark gulped, wishing he could just take the call with the phone right at Keh''s ear.


    Mark said, "I''ll give the phone to Mr. Sinir right away."


    Ophelia remarked, "No, thanks. If he hasn''t had lunch, I''ll go overter."


    Keh''s extended hand froze mid-air.


    His previously rxed face turned gloomy again.


    The next second, the meeting room''s atmosphere became even more intense.


    Upon arriving with the packed lunch, Ophelia observed the executives hastily leaving the meeting room, their urgency suggesting they would have preferred to flee through the windows if possible. Keh wore a well-fitted dark patterned suit. He walked out of the conference room as if he hadn''t noticed Ophelia, heading straight back to his office.


    Ophelia asked, "Is Keh in a bad mood?"


    Mark pressed his lips tightly together. Then he pleaded, "Ms. Spencer, please don''t talk to me. Have some mercy on me." Just by looking at Mark''s expression, Ophelia could pretty much guess it. Sheined in her heart, ''Does Keh get jealous over everything?''


    Then Ophelia pushed the door open and entered Keh''s office, seeing him sitting with a stern face in his chair, eyes closed, and his brows tightly knit.


    Ophelia remarked, "Mr. Sinir, showing me a cold shoulder during our rtionship is not a positive behavior."


    Calling him "Mr. Sinir" was definitely fanning the mes.


    Keh suddenly opened his eyes to look at Ophelia.


    Meeting his gloomy gaze, Ophelia couldn''t help butugh.


    She found him to be incredibly childish.


    "I''m here to bring you lunch and check on your work to see if you''re cking off," Ophelia teased.


    "So, you''ve seen everything," said Keh.


    His voice still carried a strong sense of displeasure.


    72%


    "Well, Mr. Sinir, you must be tired from working hard. Do you want me to give you a rxing massage?" Ophelia ced the lunch on the marble dining table. Then she walked behind Keh. Her fingers hadn''t even touched his temples before he caught her hand.


    Keh said, "I don''t ept this kind of gesture."


    He looked up at Ophelia with dissatisfaction.

 Jilted Bride 165

    Keh rested his head against the chair back and tilted his chin up slightly, causing his prominent nose to cast a shadow across his cheek. He gently withdrew his hand which was holding Ophelia''s.


    Ophelia leaned forward, her hand resting on the back of his chair. She looked down at him.


    Seeing Keh''s pitiful expression as if he couldn''t get what he wanted, Ophelia grinned.


    "Which option do you prefer? How about lying down, and I''ll give you a massage?" Ophelia suggested, blinking innocently with her bright eyes. She looked sincere and pure.


    Keh swallowed, wondering how Ophelia managed to remain such an innocent face while saying those alluring words. Ophelia knew perfectly well that Keh couldn''t do anything to her, yet she wanted him to lie down Keh ced his hand on the back of Ophelia''s neck, his thumb brushing across her soft cheek as his eyes stayed fixed her.


    Suddenly, a phone ringtone sounded, breaking their eye contact.


    Ophelia pulled out her phone and saw an unknown number.


    She answered the call. Before she could say a word, Keh''s lips were on hers.


    Ophelia swiftly pulled the phone away from her ear, yet the person on the other end still caught the odd sound.


    Keh wrapped his arm around Ophelia''s waist and showed a mischievous grin.


    Ophelia could only use one hand to hold back Keh in front of her, leaning back at a 45-degree angle, and said, "Hello, who is that?"


    There was a brief pause on the other end before Phoebe said, "Elia, it''s me."


    Phoebe''s distinctive voice came through, sounding a bit weak.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Got something to say?" Ophelia asked, standing up straight.


    Phoebe said, "Elia, I''m about to be discharged soon. My ce in Denex isn''t ready yet, and I don''t know anyone here. Would it be okay for me to stay at your ce for a couple of days?" "It''s not okay," Ophelia replied.


    Ophelia meant it. Noah was still at Rosewood Manor. She didn''t want her home to be a ce where anyone could just


    stay.


    Besides, she was well aware of Phoebe''s intentions.


    After saying those words, Ophelia felt a bit guilty and suggested, "I can book a hotel for you, if you need it."


    Phoebe said, "That would be great. Thank you, Elia."


    Ophelia thought, ''Wow, she really isn''t embarrassed at all.''


    <


    Ophelia said patiently, "When are you getting discharged? I''ll have someone pick you up."


    Phoebe replied, "Tomorrow morning."


    Ophelia remarked, "Alright."


    After she hung up, Keh looked at her suspiciously and asked, "Are you that free?"


    He had overheard the whole conversation.


    72%1


    Ophelia smiled indifferently and said, "She wants to act, so I''ll let her y her part. It''s no fun to expose her. Let''s see what she''s really nning." Keh advised, "Stay away from her. She''s not as simple as she appears. That shot she took was by her own choice, so you don''t need to feel guilty."


    He pulled Ophelia closer and gently patted her head. His gaze rested on the scar on her forehead, turning stern with worry.


    "Do I look like that?" asked Ophelia.


    Keh inquired, "Look like what?"


    "Do I look like a good person to you?" Ophelia raised an eyebrow and stated, "Ronan was able to kidnap me so smoothly thanks to Phoebe''s help. I know everything. Don''t worry, I''ll be cautious." Then she moved to the marble dining table, opened the takeout boxes, and arranged the dishes on the table.


    They sat facing each other, and Ophelia enthusiastically served Keh with unusual fervor.


    "Just spit it out," Keh said, looking at Ophelia with half-squinted eyes.


    He wouldn''t be able to have lunch if she didn''t tell him what she wanted.


    Ophelia pursed her lips and questioned, "Wouldn''t it appear that I have a rather strong hidden agenda?"


    "Speak." Keh didn''t touch his fork, and his sharp eyes seemed to see right through Ophelia.


    She pondered, "There''s really nothing that escapes his attention.


    She said, "Actually, I have some questions to ask you, about real estate development."


    "Why the sudden interest in that area?" Keh looked at her with a scrutinizing gaze.


    Ophelia avoided his gaze, focusing instead on her favorite dish, took a piece, and said nonchntly with a fork between her lips, "Because, I want to develop the slums."


    She spoke quickly and softly, sounding like shecked confidence.


    However, since Ophelia had already told Keh about her n, it meant she was determined.


    She had thought it through and was ready to face a lot of opposition.


    Having finally gotten a second chance at life, Ophelia wanted to do things she wouldn''t have dared to dream of before.


    Keh''s eyes briefly showed surprise. He slightly frowned and asked, "Do you even know what you''re saying?"


    "I know." Ophelia''s tone sounded like a sulky child, but her eyes were firm.


    Keh remarked, "Then you must have heard about the disaster in the slums."


    72%


    Ophelia asked, "Are you talking about thend remation project? That''s why I wanted to ask you what preparations are needed to develop the area." Keh said, "Even if you bring the leader of Heloria, nothing can be done there, so just let it go


    Keh picked up his fork and ate the simple dishes with an elegance that made it appear as if he were dining in an upscale


    restaurant.


    Seeing Ophelia not touching her food, Keh sighed in resignation and wiped his mouth with a napkin.


    He said, "You don''t know much about it. Heloria would never let anyone develop that area. So save your energy and spend more time with me instead."


    He mused, ''Little one, you have so many ns. Can''t you just stay by my side like you''re supposed to?


    Ophelia stuck out her tongue. She was never the type to follow orders.


    She pondered, ''I knew too little. What if I just learn more?"


    Keh could tell just from Ophelia''s eyes that she wasn''t going to give up easily.


    Keh continued, "Whether you like designing evening gowns or running an entertainmentpany, I support you. But don''t even think about developing the slums. It''s pointless and a waste of time." Keh''s words sent her heart plummeting.


    But it was only for a fleeting moment.


    She thought, ''What is meaningful, and what is meaningless?


    ''Everyone has their own definition of ''meaningful".


    After leaving the Sinir Group, Ophelia returned to her studio,


    She still had to design two evening gowns.


    Before she began sketching, she conducted an online search, typing "Denex slums" into the search bar. Promptly, suggestions popped up: [Life in the Denex Slums].


    [Crime rate in the Denex slums.]


    [Epidemic diseases rampant in the Denex slums, source of city infections.]


    [Crime in the Denex slums, Fringe activity refuge.]


    The Denex slums seemed to be a ce far removed from integrity and health.


    There were suggestions rted to Denex slums.


    Upon reading those words, Ophelia felt as if the inhabitants of the slums had been equated with the derogatorynguage used.


    However, she belieyed it was just a corner abandoned by the city clearly part of it yet unable to fit in. The people there were forced to endure all the unfairness and discrimination the city brought. Ophelia wondered, ''Who could they appeal to for justice?''


    Chapter 165-


    Someone reported, "Ms. Spencer, the store called saying an elderlydy is there to see you. Should I bring her over?"


    Ophelia thought, ''Who woulde looking for me?''


    She said, "Bring her here."


    72%


    The store wasn''t far from the studio. One could take the elevator directly from the Paralet Shopping Center to the Paralet Tower behind it.


    0

 Jilted Bride 166

    Twenty minutester, an elderly woman, d in a white embroidered winter evening gown, sat in the La Reverie studio''s lounge with an air of elegance and grace. A mink fur shawl was draped over her shoulders, and she sat with her back as straight as a rod. Her hair, though streaked with gray, was carefully arranged at the back of her head, radiating a tranquil aura that seemed to soothe everything around her.


    She gracefully took a sip of coffee from the cup on the table, her movements refined and cultured.


    When Ophelia pushed the door open, she was momentarily stunned.


    Suddenly, she felt like crying.


    For a split second, Ophelia thought she saw her grandma.


    The silhouette of this elderlydy''s profile was strikingly simr to Ophelia''s grandmother''s.


    Her graceful demeanor was strikingly simr to Ophelia''s grandmother''s, too.


    "Ms. Spencer, do you remember me?" The elderlydy''s voice was light, and as she saw Ophelia, she slowly stood up with a kind smile. Ophelia said, "Ms. Tyrus, of course I remember you."


    The elderlydy was Enzo Tyrus, a professor of Design at Denex University.


    She had judged a designpetition Ophelia had participated in before, and they had also met once at Theo''s birthday banquet.


    Ophelia hadn''t expected that Enzo woulde looking for her.


    Nor could Ophelia guess why Enzo came to find her.


    Enzo approached and took Ophelia''s hand, gently rubbing the back of it, and said, "You need to stay warm during your period, especially in winter."


    "How did you know?" Ophelia asked in surprise.


    Enzo said, "Older folks can tell at a nce. You should take good care of yourself. Though, I must say, you look much better than before. Just make sure to keep it up." Enzo''s wrinkled yet delicately elegant hands gently patted Ophelia''s.


    This gesture made Ophelia''s eyes well up, bringing back memories of her grandmother.


    "Professor Tyrus, what brings you here today?" Ophelia asked and slightly adjusted her posture, sitting across from Enzo with a rare sense of ease and warmth usually reserved for strangers. "Actually, I have a favor to ask," Enzo said, her speech gentle and unhurried, echoing the polished cadence of her time.


    She exined, "After retiring, I was rehired to teach at Denex University. Now, approaching eighty, my eyesight isn''t as good as it used to be, and teaching has be quite tough for me.


    "The university asked me to find a fitting sessor. After giving it much thought, I realized no one seemed right until I saw you. I couldn''t think of anyone better. So, I wanted to ask if you''d be interested in taking my ce at Denex University."


    <


    72%


    "Be a professor at Denex University? At my age?" Ophelia asked two questions in a row in astonishment.


    She had never attended college. Her brief time in university life in the past was not enjoyable.


    At Ophelia''s age, she should be in her second or third year of college. However, Enzo was asking her to be a professor, which was unexpected. Ophelia felt she couldn''t handle it.


    Enzo said, "Two sses a week, each 80 minutes long, and one thousand dors just let me know if your schedule allows for it."


    per


    ss. I know you


    don''tck money, so


    "Are you sure? Can I really do it?" Ophelia asked with a smile, wondering if Enzo was joking. No matter how she saw it, she didn''t seem to fit the role of a professor.


    Getting such a high sry would make Ophelia feel a bit guilty.


    Enzo said seriously, "No one is more suitable than you. I trust my own judgment, and more importantly, I trust you."


    Their eyes met, and Ophelia remembered what her grandma often told her, "Elia, you''re the best. I believe in you." Ophelia thought for a moment before she asked, "Doesn''t Denex University have a century-old library?" Enzo replied, "Yeah, it sure does! The century-old library at Denex University is amazing, full of books you can''t find anywhere else."


    Ophelia and Enzo chatted about some other topics.


    Enzo didn''t rush for Ophelia''s confirmed answer.


    As Enzo was leaving, Ophelia walked her down the stairs.


    Ophelia said, "Professor Tyrus, I can give it a shot, but I hope you keep looking for someone more suitable."


    Enzo asked, "Are you really willing to give it a shot?"


    "Yeah." Ophelia thought it over again and again, and eventually agreed.


    She didn''t like to let people down.


    Coincidentally, she wanted to visit the century-old library at Denex University to see f she could find any unknown information about the slums.


    Enzo said, "Thank you very much. The new semester will start in a few days. Once the schedule is organized, I''ll get in touch with you, and we''ll see if you''re avable." Ophelia replied, "Sure."


    "Goodbye," Enzo said and adjusted her scarf. Then she turned with elegance and hailed a cab.


    Just then, Chloe returned and couldn''t help but look at Enz¨® as she passed by her.


    Chloe asked Ophelia, "Who is she?"


    "They look quite familiar, don''t they?" Ophelia said with a gentle smile.


    Chloe turned to nce at Enzo again through the taxi window and said, "Their profiles look exactly the same."


    Then Ophelia and Chloe took the elevator upstairs together.


    09:47 Tue, Nov 19 B BB


    Ophelia shared her recent ns with Chloe.


    After listening, Chloe asked, "Are you really sure about this?"


    3


    12%1


    0


    Ophelia replied, "Yes. I wasn''t at first, but after seeing Ms. Tyrus, I remembered that olddy. She could have left the slums long ago, perhaps even be a university professor like Ms. Tyrus, but she didn''t. "She chose to stay in the slums to try to change it, hoping one day it would be different."


    Since Ophelia now had the power to make a difference, why not give it a try?Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "No matter what you decide to do, I will support you," Chloe said and gave Ophelia a supportive pat on the shoulder, looking at her resolutely.


    Ophelia also shared her thoughts with Kevin.


    He said, "Elia, I''m with you too! Scarcity starts in the mind, then it impacts the spirit, and ultimately the body. When the children there stop worrying about food, they can concentrate on their education." Discrimination and unfairness were the core issues there.


    To make a change, those problems had to be addressedpletely.


    Ophelia said, "By the way, Chloe, can you book a hotel for me? Start with a week, please."


    "Sure," Chloe replied, always the type to follow Ophelia''s requests without asking why. But this time, she surprisingly asked, "Is it for the guest staying at your ce?"


    Ophelia repeated in her mind, ''A guest staying over? At my ce?


    Ophelia was stunned for a couple of seconds before she realized Chloe was referring to Noah.


    Ophelia replied, "Oh, no."


    "Oh, so is he nning to stay for good?" Chloe asked, pretending to be carefree.


    Ophelia shrugged and said, "Not sure. He said he was going to Waston, but he hasn''t left yet. By the way, he asked me to apologize to you. He''s a bit... Odd. Don''t take his words seriously Chloe said, "No worries. I wouldn''t take offense at a


    fool."


    It was the first time that Ophelia had heard Chloe describe someone in that tone. Was she really not bothered?


    In the evening, Ophelia told Keh about her new job as a professor at Denex University.


    "It''s great," said Keh.


    He pondered, ''As long as she doesn''t keep getting ideas that are unrealistic:

 Jilted Bride 167

    The next day, Phoebe''s shoulder injury was mostly healed, and she just needed to be discharged for recovery at home.


    "Ms. Davidson, I''m here to pick you up," said Caleb.


    Seeing Caleb, Phoebe became happy and asked, "Did Kenny send you to pick me up?"


    Caleb replied, "No, it was Mrs. Sinir who sent me. The hotel has already been prepared for you."


    "Mrs. Sinir?" Phoebe murmured in confusion, her smile instantly vanishing and her eyes losing their brightness.


    Caleb and Ray were both key members of the Death Guild and close confidants of Keh. It was surprising that Caleb would call Ophelia "Mrs. Sinir".


    Phoebe thought, ''How can this be possible?''


    Caleb asked, "The hotel is booked for seven days at 300 dors a day. Mrs. Sinir asked if you''d like to pay in cash or by transfer."


    Phoebe was shocked.


    However, Caleb kept a serious expression, acting with a strictly businesslike attitude.


    Phoebe took a deep breath, maintained a gentle smile, and said, "Fiona, please make the transfer for me. Thank Elia for me." Caleb drove Phoebe to the hotel and called Ophelia after leaving, "Mrs. Sinir, Ms. Davidson has been dropped off at the hotel, she has transferred the money to me."


    Ophelia said, "Alright, keep the money. Consider it my gift for you and Barrett to buy cigarettes."


    After hanging up, Ophelia had already reached the West End.


    The West End was selected as the filming location for With Love as My Cause due to its old, undeveloped neighborhoods, which provided a fitting backdrop for the story. Additionally, the hotel hosting the film''smencement ceremony was conveniently located nearby.


    As soon as Ophelia entered the hotel lobby, she noticed a huge ad banner with the name of the film and the promotional photos taken just a few days ago.


    Thomas yed Franklin Edwards.


    In the photo, he wore a perfectly tailored ck suit, one hand holding his tie and the other in his pocket. He turned his head slightly, showing off his perfect side profile. Rex yed Aiden Grant.


    He was wearing an army green hoodie under a denim jacket, with the hood partially up and headphones around his neck. With his hands in his pockets, he walked in the opposite direction of Franklin. Aiden''s path led him to Freya Langley in a police uniform, yed by Sharon.


    All three of them looked stunningly attractive, and the promotional shot captured an especially artistic vibe.


    However, Ophelia found it strangely odd.


    She felt as though she were witnessing a rebellious teenager caught in the middle of a parental dispute.


    72%1


    Once she started viewing it in that way, she could no longer see the story as it had originally been.


    The scene was prepared, featuring a red banner that proimed [Wishing Sess for the Film With Love as My Cause.]


    The red background with yellow letters made it exceptionally eye-catching.


    In front, a table was set with a white cloth and adorned with ceremonial items for blessings. Beside it, a camera was also covered with a white cloth.


    James, as the director, led the crew in praying for good fortune.


    Before shooting any movie or TV show, this kind of ritual was performed-it was a pre-filming custom that most people in the industry acknowledged.


    However, Ophelia was not an insider, so she didn''t participate in the ceremony.


    Instead, she timed her arrival perfectly, getting there right after that part of the event ended.


    "Ophelia, morning!" Rex greeted Ophelia with the enthusiasm of a big friendly dog, his charming eyes sparkling like stars.


    He was dressed in the same outfit as in the promo picture.


    "Watch out, or I''ll report you," Ophelia teased, ncing at Rex sideways. Only ra could really keep Rex in line; she could cut off his allowance at any moment.


    "No, Ophelia! I''m sorry. Don''t be so harsh!" Rex pleaded, looking pitiful.


    Ophelia was just teasing Rex, but she couldn''t let him be too naughty.


    Talking to her in such an intimate tone might get Rex in trouble if Keh, the jealous guy, ever heard of it.


    Ophelia''s gaze shifted to Thomas and Sharon. Thomas was wearing a ck suit from the promotional photo, topped with a charcoal gray coat, making him look much gentler than in the show. Sharon called out to her, "Elia."


    Sharon walked up and linked her arm with Ophelia''s, smiling widely.


    Ophelia couldn''t help butugh.


    Their faces no longer had the expressions of the Poker Face Allies they once were.


    "Ms. Spencer, Sharon, have you eaten breakfast yet? I''ve brought sandwiches," Thomas said, addressing Ophelia with the same respect and politeness as if she were a member of Sharon''s family. "When did you bring sandwiches? Howe I didn''t know about it?" Sharon looked at Thomas with curiosity.


    He replied, "Mom made them this morning. I know you don''t eat while traveling. I brought milk, too. Let me go get them for you."


    Thomas was definitely a man of action. Before Sharon and Ophelia could say anything, he was already on his way.


    "He''s so sweet! Just as you said, very thoughtful," Ophelia raised an eyebrow and praised.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Sharon pursed her lips, watching Thomas''s back, and smiling unconsciously.


    Seeing her face, Ophelia understood everything.


    "Elia..." James and Kevin called Ophelia at the same time.


    09:47 Tue, Nov 19 BBG.


    Now, it was time to reveal the white cloth on the camera.


    James and Kevin surprisingly agreed that Ophelia should be in the center position to unveil the white cloth.


    2472%


    Ophelia was casually dressed today; she was just here to take a look. She hadn''t participated in the praying ceremony earlier, and now, being pulled by James to stand between them felt a bit awkward. Ophelia ced her hand on the white cloth and took a photo.


    The photographer counted, "Three, two, one."


    Then the white cloth was uncovered.


    With a loud pop, several confetti tubes burst, releasing a shower of sparkling confetti.


    Then the entire filmingmencement ceremony wasplete.


    In the afternoon, the movie officially began filming.


    The first scene depicted Aiden''s withdrawal from school following his father''s death, leading to a confrontation with a gang, which left him bruised.


    Rex nced at Ophelia, contemting whether staging a fight in her presence was a poor decision. He pondered, "Would it tarnish my image as a good guy?''


    "How do you act out a fight scene?" Rex asked modestly.


    James rubbed his forehead and thought, ''Isn''t that something you''re supposed to excel at?''


    James just said, "Just take it easy when you''re acting it out."


    Rex''s face darkened as he licked his lips.


    His performance in this part was actually quite good.


    Ophelia gave a slight nod, and Rex immediately felt on top of the world.


    Overall, his acting skills had seen a significant improvement, and his delivery of lines had also advanced greatly.


    However, Rex often relied on Thomas to help him achieve the character''s emotional state. Whenever a scene demanded strong emotions, Rex struggl¨¦d, requiring James and Kevin to patiently guide him through it. Rex yawned but quickly stood up straight as soon as he noticed Ophelia''s gaze, not daring to appear even slightly uninterested.


    The scene was being filmed with camera angles switching back and forth, making Ophelia feel worn out just from watching.


    Feeling she wasn''t needed there, she got up and nned to leave


    "Elia, are you leaving?" Sharon asked.


    "Yeah," Ophelia replied, checking the time on her watch.


    Sharon said, "Then I''ll go with you. I want to go to the supermarket we passed earlier and get some food for them."


    Ophelia smiled without saying anything, nodded, and nced at Thomas, who was acting nearby.


    Ophelia thought, ''Sharon has finally learned to care for Thomas


    014


    09:47 Tue, Nov 19 BBB.

 Jilted Bride 168

    As soon as Ophelia left, Rex, like a horse freed from its reins, hurried to take a rest on the side.


    "Let''s take a break. I''m exhausted!" he eximed.


    Acting seriously was much more tiring than his random acting.


    His agent promptly massaged his shoulders, while one assistant worked on his legs and another handed him some water.


    It was quite incredible that Rex had worked so hard.


    At arge chain supermarket, Ophelia and Sharon strolled around, chatting about all sorts of things.


    Before they knew it, the shopping cart had be piled high with items.


    As they pushed it to the checkout, they noticed a crowd gathering around one of the cashiers, and they were curious about what was happening.


    "Still hiding it? Just hand it over! Don''t make me call the police!" a woman''s sharp voice came from the center of the crowd.


    "I didn''t steal your stuff... I didn''t..." a voice barely louder than a whisper said.


    Sharon, masked and wearing a hat, took a nce and saw a girl with pigtails, a well-worn baseball cap, and arge, ragged coat that was a few sizes too big for her.


    The woman eximed, "Didn''t you take it? Then how did my phone disappear from my pocket? If it wasn''t you, who could it have been? You''ve been tailing me, lurking around. Did you wear that oversized coat just to pilfer items from the supermarket?" Sharon averted her gaze and whispered, "She should have realized her phone was stolen when she was checking out." She pushed the cart forward a few steps, noticing that Ophelia was still standing there, her eyes lingering on that scene.


    The woman yelled, "Look at you! Are you from the slums or what? You thief! Give me back my phone!"


    Originally standing in line behind the girl, people instantly stepped back when they heard the word "slums," looking at her as though she were something dirty.


    Someone remarked, "I knew it! I kept feeling there was a bad smelling from her, ugh."


    Another person said, "She definitely stole the phone. People from the slums are despicable!" Someone elsemented, "How could she steal things at such a young age?"


    The woman who had lost her phone berated, "You country bumpkin, you might not be aware, but phones these days have trackers, and they can be worth hundreds of dors! If you were to leave with my phone, it would turn into a serious matter. "The police would be after you, and even as a minor, you''d face consequences. Just give me back my phone!"


    The girl retorted, "I didn''t take it! What''s wrong with living in the slums? I didn''t take your phone."


    The woman grew impatient and knocked off the girl''s cap, revealing a few bald patches on her head. The girl quickly covered her head, biting her lip with teary eyes.


    However, those people didn''t let up. Instead, their mocking voices grew even louder, showing no hint of remorse.


    09:47 Tue, Nov 19 B GG.


    Someone eximed, "Oh my god, is there something wrong with her? Is she sick or something?"


    Someone shouted, "This is so terrifying! She definitely looks like there''s something wrong with her."


    D


    72%


    Anothermented, "Oh man, can''t we just put up a sign or something in public ces saying, ''No poor people or dogs allowed''?"


    The woman stepped back a few paces, regretting even touching the girl. The woman looked disgusted, as if she desperately needed to wash her hands right now.


    Annoyed, she said, "If you want to prove you''re innocent, go ahead and take off your clothes yourself to show you didn''t steal anything!"


    The girl looked around at the curious stares from those surrounding her, biting her lip so hard that tears filled her eyes but didn''t fall.


    The girl clenched her little fists tightly and said, "Fine, I''ll do it!"


    Just as her fingers touched the zipper of her coat to pull it down, her small, purplish-red hand was suddenly grabbed by


    someone.


    The girl froze, raising her tear-filled eyes, and looked up.


    Ophelia picked up the cap lying next to her and gently ced it on the girl''s head, squatting down to meet her eyes, and asking, "You''re sure you didn''t take anything, right?"


    The woman shouted in a sharp voice, "Don''t listen to her! No thief ever admits to stealing! She''s been following me all the way."


    The girl stammered, "I was following her because I overheard her mention buying cookies. I couldn''t locate the ce where they sold cookies, so I just...


    In one hand, the girl held a gray package containing the cheapest type of energy biscuits.


    In her other hand, which was poised to unzip her jacket, she clutched a 50-cent coin tightly.


    As Ophelia looked at the girl, it was as if she saw herself from the past.


    Back then, Ophelia went through something simr, letting people search her to prove she was innocent.


    However, being forced to undress to prove her innocence was an insult. Even the police couldn''t search someone without concrete evidence, let alone a regr citizen. Later, Ophelia''s grandma told her, "Anyone can look down on you, but you must never look down on yourself."


    Now, Ophelia said to the girl, "If you''re innocent, there''s no need to prove it to anyone."


    Back then, no one stood by Ophelia''s side, but now she could stand by others.


    The woman, surprised that Ophelia was defending a girl from the slums, looked Ophelia up and down and demanded, "What do you mean by that?"


    "I mean you stole my stuff, so I should search you," Ophelia said in an icy tone. Despite her innocent face, she carried an aura of authority.


    "Who stole your stuff? Stop making things up! And who do you think you are? Why should you search me?" the woman countered.


    "And who are you to make her strip to prove her innocence?" asked Ophelia.


    Her words left the woman momentarily speechless.


    12%


    "I... How can youpare us? Why are you standing up for a thief? You don''t seem like a good person either!" the woman snapped back.


    Ophelia retorted, "If you lost your belongings, call the police. Stop throwing baseless usations. I''ve recorded everything you just said-nder and defamation." Hearing this, the woman immediately mmed up, suddenly too scared to speak.


    The girl tugged at Ophelia''s sleeve and said, "Miss, should I take off my coat and let her search me? The police would make me do it too."


    This tone of submission deeply disturbed Ophelia.


    People in the slums seemed used to having their dignity trampled on.


    They knew that even if the police came, they wouldn''t be on their side.


    This was one of the reasons why Ophelia wanted to make fundamental changes to the ce.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    At that moment, a voice announced over the PA system, "Attention customers, if anyone has lost an iPhone 11, please proceed to the service desk to retrieve it." The announcement repeated twice.


    The once assertive woman suddenly looked guilty and nced away, saying, "Alright, I won''t hold you ountable anymore."


    As the woman was about to walk away, Ophelia suddenly blocked her way.


    She said, "Apologize to her."


    "Why should I apologize? If she hadn''t acted so suspiciously, I wouldn''t have doubted her. She should be med for looking like a thief... Oh!" the woman shouted. Suddenly, Ophelia grabbed the woman''s wrist, her grip tightening just enough to make the woman wince in pain.


    The woman screamed, "Oh, damn! It hurts! It hurts... She''s hitting me! Help!"

 Jilted Bride 169

    The atmosphere around turned tense, and quite a few onlookers were drawn over.


    Therge supermarket somehow made people feel short of breath.


    Sensing Ophelia''s overwhelming pressure, the people nearby didn''t dare intervene, only muttering among themselves.


    Someone said, "Oh dear, it''s all just a misunderstanding."


    Another one imed, "Yeah! Don''t start a fight! Can''t we talk this over peacefully?"


    People at other checkout counters quickly pulled out their phones, eager to film the scene.


    Ophelia''s face was nk, her jaw slightly tightened, and her eyes were icy.


    It was the first time Sharon saw Ophelia like this. It seemed that Ophelia had been enraged. Ophelia just coldly stated, ""Apologize!"


    The grip of Ophelia''s hand kept tightening, making the woman''s face turn even paler.


    She yelled, "Oh... I... I apologize! I''m sorry! What more do you want from me?"


    Feeling like her bones might break, the woman immediately backed down.


    "Not to me," Ophelia said and suddenly let go of her grip.


    The woman retreated two steps, her arm entirely numb. Squinting at the girl, she spoke with a condescending tone, "Sorry, are you satisfied now?"


    The apology was as insincere as it could possibly be.


    The little girl lowered her head and whispered, "It''s... It''s okay."


    Ophelia''s intense anger was doused by those simple words from the little girl.


    She felt distressed that such a kind child was undeservedly treated poorly.


    The woman''s eyes darted about nervously as she kept ncing at Ophelia.


    Since Ophelia didn''t say anything else, the woman immediately rushed off, vanishing from her sight.


    A flicker of satisfaction lit up the girl''s eyes. No one had ever apologized to her before, and this unexpected gesture of respect was a new experience for her. Although it wasn''t grand, she found herself quite pleased with it. She said, "Thanks, miss."


    The girl thanked Ophelia, her eyes twinkling like stars.


    She handed over the biscuits in her hand to pay.


    Soon, her small figure disappeared into the crowd.


    Order quickly returned to the checkout area.


    Ophelia went back to her shopping cart, feeling depressed.


    09:47 Tue, Nov 19 B BB


    After paying the bill, Ophelia apanied Sharon back to the film set and then drove off alone.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    As Ophelia drove past the entrance of therge supermarket she had recently left, she noticed the little girl wearing at tattered ck cap.


    The girl opened the package ofpressed cookies and shared them with two kids younger than her standing nearby.


    Each of the two kids held a blue water bottle without abel.


    The three kids huddled in a corner, unnoticed, taking bites of the biscuits and sips of cold water.


    After filling their stomachs, they beamed innocent smiles.


    Seeing this, Ophelia was more determined to change the slums.


    Chloe had inquired of Ophelia, "Why not consider establishing essential infrastructure such as schools and healthcare facilities in the vicinity of the slums initially?"


    Ophelia had actually thought about it long ago.


    However, she knew she couldn''t disrupt the normal order of the city and the country.


    72%1


    11


    If a free school and hospital were established near the slums, setting aside the high costs of staffing and operating a hospital, it could result in the already unmotivated residents bing even more dependent on these facilities for their survival. It would make those who paid for schooling and healthcare feel unfair.


    In this city, it was not just the wealthy and those in the slums; there were many ordinary people.


    Ophelia once gave Chloe an example. She said, "It''s like calling 911 is free, but taking an ambnce costs money.


    "Even though both are about saving lives, if ambnces became free, people might start calling one for every little headache or cold, making it so those who really need an ambnce can''t get one quickly."


    That would disrupt the order of this country.


    It was essential to make the slums disappear and ensure they were not remembered as a dirty part of the city, providing true fairness and justice. That was the way to solve the root problem. Human nature was inherently greedy.


    Once they got one thing, they wanted more.


    Ophelia didn''t want to be a great phnthropist who provided everything the poor needed without conditions.


    By the time Ophelia returned to the downtown, it was already dark.


    After a busy day, Harris had juste home when Cecilia hooked her arm around his.


    She said, "Dad, I want to change a job."


    "What? For heaven''s sake! Do I even look like I''m your new job? What''s wrong with this job?" Harris asked.


    Cecilia was fuming.


    She eximed, "Do you realize who the CEO of thepany is that you got me to work for? It''s the woman from the Carnegie family who spilled red wine on my dress during the cruise!" 2/4 09:47 Tue, Nov 19 BBB


    Chapter 169.


    Ever since Ophelia''sst visit to thepany, everyone had regarded Cecilia as an airhead who secured her position due to connections.


    Facing those people''s cold shoulders was driving Cecilia crazy.


    She felt like a figurehead in the HR department, as everything was only superficiallymunicated to her.


    On the surface, the staff members seemed friendly, but whenever Cecilia saw them whispering together, she was sure they were talking about her.


    Cecilia couldn''t stand working there any longer.


    Harris'' expression was serious.


    Normally, he would have agreed to Cecilia''s request, but this time, he couldn''t.


    He said, "Behave yourself for now. I''m busy with the Denex mayoral election. There will be plenty of chances to deal with the Carnegie family, so take your time."


    Just then, Harris'' phone rang, disying the caller ID: [Fiona Walters].


    He quickly answered with a smile, "Hello, Ms. Walters, it''s me..."


    Watching Harris walk right past her and head upstairs, Cecilia stomped her foot in frustration.


    She cursed in her heart, ''Ophelia! You witch! Just wait and see!''


    **


    As Ophelia returned to Rosewood Manor, Keh''s car had juste to a stop ahead of hers.


    She gave a light honk and parked her car. As Keh stepped out slowly, she walked forward and took his arm.


    She said sweetly, "Honey."


    She was about to rise on tiptoes for a kiss but paused as she lifted her head.


    Ophelia found the man''s eyes serious. He frowned slightly, and in just a second, she noticed a mix ofplex emotions in his eyes.


    Ophelia was momentarily taken aback by the man''s stern and solemn demeanor. d in authoritative ck, his attire mirrored his temperament. At that moment, his delicate facial features appeared distinctly strict.


    "Mr. West?" Ophelia stammered, swallowing nervously, wishing she had never returned.


    A momentter, Ophelia felt a cold, sharp gaze focusing on her, prompting her to quickly pull her hand back.


    Turning her head, she saw Keh standing by the other side of the car, looking at them with a dark expression and cold eyes.


    Ophelia quickly stepped back, putting some distance between her and Adams.


    Keh moved between them, blocking Ophelia''s view.


    He shot a chilly nce at Adams and said in a cold tone, "Stay here. I''ll get him out for you."

 Jilted Bride 170

    Adams took salern tavath, holding a bit muocent, but he was a early man, to and riderly without moving.


    a


    Actually, she didn''t have time to look at ins again before Keeth took her hand and fed her swiftly into Rosewood


    She knew Keh, a possessive and demanding man, was definely not happy now,


    She didn''t ask Keh why Adams came to Rosewood Manor, bring that Keh might think she was concerned about Adams.


    In the Rosewood Manor living room, Noah was lying sprawled on the sofa while the TV yed a cartoon.


    Noah was dressed in a yellow SpongeBob fleece onesie, which he had half unzipped from his upper body, indicating he felt too warm. He was munching on chips, apparently relishing both the cartoon on screen and his snack. "You, get out." Keh said in an icy tone, regardless of whether Noah even heard him.


    After that he led Ophelia behind him straight upstairs.


    The door was mmed shut.


    Noah finally snapped back to reality, thinking, ''Did they just say something to me?


    "Whatever. Go on watching the next episode.


    In the room, Ophelia looked through the floor-to-ceiling window and could still see Adams standing stiffly at the entrance.


    Dressed in his formal ck suit, Adams appeared more like a figure standing before a tombstone, exuding an uncanny atmosphere.


    Keh foosened his tie, ced hisrge hand on her head, and forced her to turn around.


    The curtains behind her slowly closed automatically.


    Keh asked, "Little one, how could you even mistake your own husband?"


    Ophelia knew he wouldn''t get over the matter easily.


    Given his jealous nature, Keh was sure to make a big deal out of it.


    Ophelia yed with the buttons on his shirt.


    She pondered, ''It''s because you dress like you are twins."


    However, Ophelia hesitated to utter those words, aware that he would likely silence her with a kiss andbel her as being overly critical.


    She needed to learn how to pet a temperamental cat correctly.


    Ophelia said, "Honey, help me take off my clothes, will you?"


    Keh''s eyes narrowed, and he swallowed.


    k closely Am I your husband?" he asked.


    1-FOR-Wed. Noy


    You''re Keh. Whe rise could you be? Ophe''s vol¨¦e was so innocent, yet tempting


    she lowered her eyes shyly.


    Then she looked up, intently fixing her bright eyes on Keh


    What a bewitching woman


    Keh''s eyes narrowed slightly as he was drawn in by Ophelia alluring gaze. His lips moved, and his breath brushed against her cheek.


    Yet he didn''t kiss her.


    Ophelia wondered. Is he waiting for me to make the first move?


    Ophelia stifled augh and pursed her lips.


    "Didn''t you say you''d help me with my shower? And now you don''t even want to help with something as simple as undressing, Ophelia teased, her pink lips brushing his. She whispered, Fine. I''ll do it myself. Ophelia turned her head away, deliberately avoiding looking at Keh.


    She casually slipped off her coat and undid two buttons of her white shirt, revealing her delicate and attractive neck.


    But after undoing two buttons, she stopped.


    Yet, with those two buttons undone, she looked extremely enticing.


    Keh''s breathing grew heavier, and she could hear it clearly


    "Never mind, I''ll just go take a shower by myself," Ophelia said, sounding like a lonely soul with no one to care for her. She seemed utterly pitiful.


    As soon as she walked past Keh, he instinctively pulled her into his arms.


    He was outyed by her in the game of ying hard to get.


    Just as Keh was about to kiss Ophelia, there was a knock on the door.


    Noah asked, "Keh, did you talk to me when you came in earlier?"


    Keh took a deep breath, the desire in his eyes vanishing instantly.


    As soon as Keh loosened his grip around Ophelia, she dashed into the bathroom in a sh.


    Keh was left behind, gritting his teeth and sulking by himself


    He took off his coat, walked to the door, and yanked it open.


    He moved swiftly, creating a breeze with his motion.


    "Did I, um, interrupt you two?" Noah asked and awkwardly scratched the back of his head.


    "Yet you''re still standing there," Keh said. His rising anger faded when he saw Noah''s sheepish look.


    Keh tried to be patient, even though his eyebrows habitually furrowed slightly.


    He remarked. "Adams looking for you."


    Oh why he king theme Noch appeared confulest thank


    The thing he knew was that he and Ads were brothers Aduna


    That was all he knew


    sering the puzzled look on Nosh''s face. Keh, unusually, exined patiently, He''s taking you back to the West residence. Staying here to avoid them is pointless


    Noah sighed. The Wes family waspletely unfamiliar to him


    For the first time, his face was matched by an appropriate expression-seriousness.


    Even dressed in SpongeBob pajamas, he looked solemn at the moment


    But just after a couple of seconds, Noah blinked and tapped his Bead with his palm.


    However, he still couldn''t recall anything useful


    Ophelia emerged from the bathroom, freshly showered, and changed into her cream-colored spring loungewear.


    Dinner was ready downstairs.


    As Ophelia walked down the stairs, she saw Keh sitting at the dining table. Dressed in the same style of light gray loungewear as hers, he sat in the chair with one leg crossed over the other, and the dining chair looked like a king''s throne Just the two of us?" Ophelia asked. She didn''t see Noah, who was usually the first to sit down and wait for dinner.


    Yeah, he''s gone back to Waston, replied Keh.


    Ophelia sat on one side of the table, realizing that Adams hade to pick up Noah.


    She almost forgot that they were brothers.


    The three brothers either looked exactly alike or didn''t look simr at all


    Keh waited until Ophelia was seated before picking up his fork, leaning slightly forward and catching the sweet fragrance from her recent shower.


    Finished your shower?" he asked, already knowing the answer.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Yeah, Ophelia said and took a sip of soup.


    TII check it to see if you cleaned up well," said Keh.


    Ophelia was caught off guard by his words and coughed softly with her hand covering her mouth.


    She wondered, ''How does Kenny manage to say such words with such a serious face?


    "Take it slow!" Lisa advised, her tone filled with concern as she stepped forward. She used a napkin to wipe up the spilled soup on the table and thendled half a bowl of soup for Ophelia Ophelia''s cheeks flushed red suddenly.


    Lisa must have heard the words Keh said.


    fa


    Ophelia feltpletelyfortable with whatever Keh said when they were alone, but the presence of a third person


    15.02 Wed Nov 20


    made her feel based


    Ophelia kept her head down, but from the corner of her eye, sh Throughout the whole meal, Ophelia didn''t dare to lift her head Keh, however, was as calm as ever, wearing a mischievous

 Jilted Bride 171

    After dinner, Ophelia went to the study with her design drafts, indicating that no one should disturb her work.


    The pencil scratched across the paper, producing swishing sounds.


    Lisa brought in a cup of milk and said, "Mrs. Sinir, it''s almost ten. Why not finish it tomorrow? You don''t want to strain your eyes."


    "Okay, almost done. I''ll go to bedter. Goodnight Lisa, Oplielisaid, ncing toward the bedroom.


    She needed to visit the Huxley family''s fashionpany early morrow, so it was time for bed.


    However, she was too afraid to go back to the bedroom.


    She realized she shouldn''t have flirted with Keh when they got hack. His desire for revenge was intense. She was uncertain whether he would allow her to sleep peacefully now that her period had ended.


    Lisa had just left when she caught a glimpse of Keh''s silhouette in the corner of her eye.


    Ophelia kept her head down, randomly sketching a few lines with the pencil.


    "If you want me to buy your studio, just tell me," Keh said arid walked around the desk to stand beside her.


    Ophelia looked up and immediately understood what he meant when she saw his lonely, longing expression.


    Once he bought her studio, she wouldn''t have to worry about her current work and could focus on spending time with him. Keh leaned in close, with his hands on the armrests of Ophelia''s chair, his handsome face suddenly close to her. Ophelia almost stopped breathing, her eyes locked on him without blinking.


    The unique cool and pleasant scent of him lingered around her nose after his shower.


    His disheveled hair softened the sharpness of his features, and his expressive eyes looked at her with fervent passion. Keh whispered, "Little one, it''s time to sleep.


    His maic voice slipped into her ear, and he sounded like a persuasive bad wolf.


    Ophelia was captivated.


    It wasn''t that Keh couldn''t control himself; it was she who couldn''t control herself.


    The self-discipline Ophelia prided herself on almost vanished.


    Keh wrapped his arm around her waist and lifted her hips, holding her upright like holding a child,


    The pencil in Ophelia''s hand dropped to the floor with a thud, and she instinctively wrapped her arms around Keh''s neck.


    On their way back to the bedroom, Ophelia''s kiss found its way in his lips.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    The bedroom door closed.


    Keh kept his promise to review Ophelia''s shower results. He meticulously examined her body throughout the long night, ensuring that no detail was overlooked. 15.02 Wed, Nov 20


    They had a wild night.


    The next morning, the rm went off twice before Ophelia managed to get up.


    She couldn''t pinpoint when it began, but Keh had entirely diered her previously dependable body clock.


    Downstairs, Keh, who rarely wore anything other than ck today donned a wine-red shirt.


    Mark stood to the side, briefing him on work matters.


    63%


    Ronan''s operatives within the group had mostly been neutralized, and Keh saw no need to concern himself with those uncles who no longer posed any threat to him. The group was pretty stable now, so Keh wasn''t as busy as before.


    However, Ophelia seemed to have quite a lot to do.


    Keh sipped his coffee and tilted his head, his squinted eyes scrutable, revealing nothing of his thoughts.


    Mark looked serious, wondering, ''Is there something else important?"


    Mark took a deep breath, prepared to receive new orders.


    But before Mark could exhale, he heard Keh speak in a low voice, "What do you need to do when dating and getting married?"


    Mark was at a loss for words, feeling shocked.


    Keh looked serious. Seeing Mark''s dumbfounded expression, he turned his head away in disdain and remarked, "I forgot, you''re still single." That tone was quite annoying.


    Mark raised an eyebrow, feeling offended, and thinking, ''So what? You''re really great because you have a wife.


    Mark wanted to find someone too, but he was too busy with work.


    Mark cleared his throat and said, "Ahem, Mr. Sinir, just because I''m single doesn''t mean I don''t know these things!"


    Hecked practical experience, but his theoretical knowledge wasprehensive.


    Mark said, "Typically, couples engage in various activities together, such as shopping, watching movies, dining out, traveling. pet ownership, exchanging gifts, andmuting to work together. These activities can be part of both dating and married life Mark knew all of this but never had the chance to try.


    He pondered, When will I have a girlfriend?"


    Keh said, "Go on,"


    Mark wondered. What else?"


    Then he stated, "Oh, getting married is even simpler. First, propose, Once she agrees, the families meet to discuss wedding details. Then you select a date to apply for the marriage certificate. After that, you hold a wedding... Keh zoned out after hearing ''propose, missing everything else Mark said.


    Just as Keh was about to ask what was needed for a proposal, he heard some noise from the stairs.


    C


    Ophelia was already dressed, and quickly came downstairs.


    "Where are you going? Come over for breakfast, and Ill give you a ride afterward, Keh said.


    Ophelia was confused, wondering, "Why is he suddenly offering me a ride?''


    She looked at Mark in bewilderment, but he just pressed his lips together and smiled silently.


    It seemed that Keh was practicing his theory immediately.


    The ck Maybach drove away from Rosewood Manor.


    Keh, wearing a jet-ck suit, sat in the back seat. The metallic tie clip on his ck tie glinted coldly, entuating hismanding aura.


    He h


    He held Ophelia''s hand, and his thumb habitually rubbed the ring on her finger.


    Keh asked, "Do you want to go shopping?


    "Shopping? Not quite much. Don''t you have all the seasonal collections delivered home?" Ophelia asked. She still had many clothes she hadn''t worn yet. It seemed unnecessary to waste time shopping. Keh asked, "How about catching a movie then?"


    Ophelia seemed to really enjoy watching movies before.


    She replied, "Sure, let''s go this weekend."


    Just as she finished speaking, she got a phone call.


    aShe recognized it as Phoebe''s number.


    "Elia, where are you? I''m waiting for you downstairs at the office building. Let''s go up together," said Phoebe.


    Phoebe owned thirty percent of the shares of the Huxley family''spany, just like Ophelia did.


    Ophelia didn''t expect Phoebe''s injury to heal so quickly.


    She said, "I''m almost there


    Then the Maybach stopped in front of the building.


    From afar, Ophelia spotted Phoebe, who was wearing a white dress topped with a navy zer. Her slightly wavy cascaded over her shoulders, and her face was beautifully made up.


    It looked like Phoebe had recovered from the gunshot wound.


    Ophelia opened the car door, ready to step out when Keh caught her hand.


    He asked, "Did you forget something?"


    Seeing his slightly raised chin, Ophelia guessed what he was waiting for.


    She leaned in and gave him a kiss on the cheek


    Mark said to himself in his heart, ''Mr. Sinir has grasped the essence


    in

 Jilted Bride 172

    Phoebe happened to witness this scene as she walked by and said, "Hi, Elia


    Phoebe wore a faint smile, pretending that she had only just noticed Keh in the car. She said, "Kenny, are you here to drop off Elia? Don''t worry. I''ll take good care of her Phoebe''s tone was gentle, sounding friendly and reliable.


    However, Keh''s gaze stayed fixed on Ophelia, as if he couldn''t see anyone but Ophelia.


    Being ignored by Keh, Phoebe felt awkward and sensibly stepped aside.


    Keh said to Ophelia, "Call me when you''re finished, and I''lle pick you up."


    Ophelia looked at him puzzled, wondering, "What''s going on with Keh today? If he keeps apanying me like this, I won''t have time for anything else!


    She didn''t quite understand, but she agreed right away.


    After the door closed, Ophelia''s smile gradually faded. She returned to her usual cold and distant demeartor, the one she usually reserved for others.


    Phoebe remarked, "Elia, I''m really jealous, Kenny treats you so well."


    Ophelia turned to Phoebe and, detecting no other emotions in her expression or tone, sensed only pure envy.


    Ophelia didn''t say anything, and they walked into the office building of Huxley Fashion.


    On the way to the meeting room, everyone they passed nodded respectfully to Phoebe butpletely ignored Ophelia. treating her as if she were just Phoebe''s assistant. along,R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Now Ophelia understood why Phoebe wanted her toe al


    Phoebe said, "Elia, we''re going to have a meeting soon, and we can discuss any issues thate up. That''s what Mr. Zayn Huxley wants."


    ''Sure, Ophelia said with a smile, looking easy-going.


    At this time, a man appeared and said, "Good morning. Ms. Davidson! I was just about to wee you! Let''s talk over here."


    The head of Huxley Fashion,n Leech, came out from his office and shook hands with Phoebe,pletely ignoring Ophelia.


    Phoebe nodded slightly, smiling as she extended her hand. She didn''t forget to turn back and remind Ophelia, "Elia, why don''t you go ahead and sit in the conference room first? "All thepany materials are on the desk for your review. While you do that, I''ll be coordinating with thepany heads.


    Phoebe spoke in a gentle tone, giving the impression of being especially considerate.


    Her words sounded reasonable, but Ophelia knew Phoebe was intentionally excluding her.


    Ophelia didn''t care about it and walked into therge conference room, taking a seat to the right of the head of the desk Then she began looking through stacks ofpany documents Everyone who entered the room for the meeting nced at Ophelia before taking their seats.


    Ophelia flipped through the pages so quickly that it seemed like he was just pretending to read, Most of the department heads were middle-aged men, while most of the designers were women. They sat mixed together, each with varied expressions on their thees


    Someone whispered, "Who is she? I''ve never seen her before."


    Someone guessed, "She''s sitting in that seat, so is she one of the new shareholders who just came in?"


    Another one said, "I thought Ms. Davidson was the only new shareholder. Are you kidding me? Is that kid who looks barely out of high school one too?"


    "What''s the surprise? Everypany has a few people like her, but you can''t just dismiss a wealthy kid, someone muttered.


    "Ugh, look at us working ourselves to the bone. What''s the use of working so hard? It''s way better to be born into wealth," said


    someone.


    The snide remarks flew around the room, while those seated next to Ophelia could only exchange disdainful nces.


    Most of the people had already arrived.


    Thenn and Phoebe stepped into the conference room.


    The whispers stopped abruptly.


    Good morning, everyone. Ian said. "I''d like to introduce our new shareholder and leader, Ms. Phoebe Davidson, who is standing next to me. Many of you are likely familiar with her, as she is the chief designer behind the renowned Mystique Moon


    -


    "Hello, everyone, Phoebe greeted. Her elegance was entuated by her makeup, which rendered her even more striking and fashionable,


    As a leader, her approachable demeanor earned her favor from the staff.


    Everyone responded with a round of apuse.


    Ophelia wondered. The chief designer of Mystique Moon? She looked up at Phoebe with a disdainful look.


    Meeting Ophelia''s gaze, Phoebe felt a moment of awkwardness, but she quickly recovered with a smile and said, "Everyone, the person sitting across from me is also a new shareholder of thepany. Elia, please say hello to everyone." Ophelia closed her documents, looked around the meeting room, and nced at her watch.


    She said. "Thank you all for giving me forty-two minutes to review your information. It helped me understand you better. My name is Ophelia Spencer.


    "Town thirty percent of thepany shares. I might not have the most say, but I do have the power to make decisions."


    Someone whispered, "What does she mean by that?"


    Someone asked, "What''s all this about decision-making? Is she trying to act powerful?",


    "How much stock she holds isn''t our concern,"mented a staff member.


    "Exactly!" echoed someone.


    "Still don''t get it? She''s saying we made her wait an extra forty-two minutes for the meeting, and she''s not happy about it! She''s showing us who''s in charge!" remarked another person. Chapter 172


    Phoebe quickly tried to smooth things over and said, "Elia''s right, but we''re both here to assist everyone in thepany, so if any of you have any problems..."


    Before Phoebe could finish speaking, Ophelia was already at the head of the desk with two documents in hand.


    It was hard to discem her emotions.


    However, her bright eyes were serious, and her confidence, coupled with an air of intimidation, was impossible to ignore.


    Ophelia who appeared so rxed andid-back just moments ago suddenly changed her demeanor, making everyone sit upt straight.


    Neither Phoebe norn knew what Ophelia intended to do, but they both unconsciously stepped aside.


    Ophelia asked. "May I ask, who is the HR Director?"


    The HR Director, Wendy Lopez, raised her hand sensibly.


    Ophelia said, "Thepany might undergo some personnel changes soon, so you should be in charge." Everyone else was confused.


    They wondered. What does she mean by that? Is she trying to make an impact as the new boss?"


    "Elia, if you want to make some personnel changes, we can discuss it privately. Phoebe said with a troubled expression, unsure of what Ophelia was nning.


    "That''s right, Ms. Spencer. If you have any adjustments in mind, let''s discuss them privately. There are other topics on today''s agenda,n said with a polite smile, though there was clear disdain in his eyes.


    He thought, ''What''s with the pretense? If she wants to make decisions, she needs the capability to back her up.


    Does she even know how to manage apany?


    If she fires people recklessly, they''ll just push back like a spring, and that won''t do thepany any good."


    "Mr. Leech, Ms. Davidson, can''t you see what''s happening?" Operations Director Hendrick Rodriguez rose to his feet with a wry expression and remarked, "Isn''t it clear she''s considering firing someone to make a point? It''s regrettable that we have a shareholder like her."

 Jilted Bride 173

    Jan shook his head slightly, thinking. See, someone''s already upset.


    "That''s a good point," Ophelia said indifferently.


    Everyone else appeared to be smugly satisfied.


    They all knew Hendrick was a key figure in thepany. He was in charge of a lot of projects, so he was always arrogant without regard for anyone. The executives would never confront him directly.


    They believed Ophelia was too naive.


    They thought. Truly, ignorance makes her fearless,"


    They were all waiting to see how Hendrick would embarrass her


    Someonemented, "Ms. Spencer, you''re barely in college. What do you know about business or design? Who taught you to dismiss employees arbitrarily? If you make decisions based solely on your own whims, wouldn''t thepany fall into chaos? Ophelia appeared calm, leading others to believe she was taken aback by the words spoken.


    "Mr. Leech, if someone like her is meddling in thepany decisions, then I might as well resign now. I don''t want to wait until thepany fails under her and I getid off, remarked someone.


    With a gentle smile, Phoebe addressed Hendrick, saying, "Mr. Rodriguez, please remain calm. We value your talent here, and after all these years, it''s unthinkable for thepany to fail There''s no need to be upset. It''s possible that Elia has some genuinely good ideas." Feeling the gaze of the beautiful Phoebe, Hendrick licked his upper lip, adjusted his suit, and reluctantly sat down.


    He thought, "What good ideas could she possibly have? Ridiculous!"


    Ophelia announced, "Hendrick Rodriguez, aged 32, holds a Marketing degree from Havencrest University and boasts over five years of professional experience, with more than four of those years in senior management roles.


    "Throughout his career, he has sessfully negotiated agreements with numerouspanies, attracting a number of international brand clients. At present, he is chiefly in charge of thepany''s import-export operations, managing three active projects."


    "That''s right," Hendrick said and lifted his chin, wondering. ''What''s going on? Is she going to praise me in front of everyone? Trying to tter me? What a childish trick!"


    Ophelia opened Hendrick''s resume and said, "Your resume is impressive, but I have a question for you


    "Go ahead." Hendrick crossed his arms, speaking with an air of arrogance.


    "Regarding our coboration project with Manns, the profit margin was supposed to be between 8% and 12%, with thepany aiming for at least a 10% profit. Under your management, thepany''s profit has only reached 8%. Where has the additional profit gone?" Ophelia inquired


    Hearing this, Hendrick dropped his hands, pursed his lips, and swallowed instinctively, sitting up straight.


    Before he had a chance to rify, Ophelia pressed on. "Did you omit to mention on your resume that you once served as the Deputy Director of Operations at Manns?


    "When you worked there, you were responsible for a significant financial setback following a pivotalpany decision that turned out to be a mistake, leading to the payment ofpensatory damages?


    "So tell me, how did you manage to pay off a massive 1.8 million dors in less than six months, when your annual sry was less than 300 thousand dors?"


    Ophelia''s tone was casual, as if she was discussing mundane matters, yet her gaze was sharp, piercing straight into Hendrick''s soul.


    Sweat started to form on Hendrick''s forehead as he gripped the armrests. He constantly shifted his position nervously.


    He pondered, ''How could she possibly know about this? If she was bluffing, how could she recall the numbers so urately?"Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    It was quite a coincidence.


    Half a year ago, Ophelia participated in a designpetition where one of the designers was from Manns.


    At that time, Ophelia researched Manns and discovered it was coborating with Huxley Fashion, with Hendrick leading the project.


    Then Ophelia asked Chloe to investigate further, which led to a surprising discovery.


    Ophelia''s eyes scanned the others at the conference desk, and she asked. "May I know who''s the Director of Finance?"


    Terence Jensen, the Director of Finance, was stunned and slowly stood up.


    Ophelia asked, "Mr. Jensen, are you unaware of this situation?"


    "I knew nothing about it!" Terence waved his hands in denial.


    After being stared at by Ophelia, Terence felt a chill down his spine and every hair on his body stood up.


    "Well, this still needs to be confirmed, since Mr. Rodriguez is an experienced employee... Jan tried to smooth things over, but as soon as he caught a slight nce from Ophelia, he immediately shut up. The people who had been waiting to see Ophelia get scolded by Hendrick were now shrinking back timidly,


    The whole meeting room was silenced by Ophelia''s intimidating aura, and everyone else was afraid to even breathe too loudly.


    No matter what position they were in, no one could guarantee their record was spotless.


    They were terrified they''d be the next Hendrick.


    They couldn''t tolerate the exposure of their secrets.


    If the scandal got out, nopany would ever hire Hendrick again.


    The staff deeply regretted their initial impression of the woman as merely a pretty face, and they wished they could go in time to correct their foolish assumption.


    Ophelia sneered and looked innocently at Phoebe, asking, "Phoebe, how do you think we should handle this? Mr. Zayn Huxley suggested we coborate, so why don''t you decide how to resolve this matter?" For a moment, Phoebe''s gentle smile became unnatural.


    Phoebe pondered, ''Is she setting a trap for me?


    back


    ''If I agreed with the harsh punishment for Hendrick, it wouldpletely overturn my newly established nice-person imag


    ''But if I disagreed and Hendrick wasn''t severely punished, I wouldn''t be able to establish my authority in thepany


    This


    This dilemma was more agonizing than being put on the spot.


    Phoebe said, "It didn''t happen during Elia and my tenure, so Me Leech should be the one to handle it."


    What a smart move.


    Even though it was Phoebe who asked for his opinion, after proposing a solution, he sought Ophelia''s approval first.


    The decision is yours," Ophelia stated.


    Ophelia, with an easygoing demeanor, continued. "Last September, designer Amelia Dawson allegedly copied two of Mystique Moon''s designs before the winter collection was revealed..."


    Amelia shouted, "That''s nonsense! I did nothing of the sort!"


    Ophelia''s head was initially turned to the left, but after hearing where the voice came from, she casually turned to the right to look at the speaker.


    Ophelia stated, "Are you saying I wronged you? Phoebe, you''re Mystique Moon''s chief designer, so you should know Mystique Moon''s style well. Look at these two drawings. Aren''t they the two designs that went missingst year?"

 Jilted Bride 174

    COMMENT


    Ophelia handed her phone to Phoebe so that she could check the picture more closely.


    Phoebe nced at it and nodded slightly, saying, "That''s right."


    She sounded very confident.


    Amelia shouted anxiously, "You''re lying! Those two designs aren''t from Mystique Moon! Didn''t they find Mystique Moon''s missing designs a long time ago?"


    Phoebe''s expression froze for a moment. Then she realized Ophelia was tricking her.


    Fortunately, no one else dwelled on the thought.


    Ophelia took back her phone, knowing her guess was correct.


    She had met Mystique Moon''s head designer once before, and Phoebe was nothing like her. Phoebe could easily fake her identity, especially since Mystique Moon''s brand was based in Yosk. Ophelia said, "Sorry, I remembered wrong. It wasn''t Mystique Moon, but New Realm, right?"


    Amelia kept silent.


    There was a dead silence in the room.


    The conference room was filled with the sound of quiet breathing. Every staff member awaited Ophelia''s revtion of their wrongdoings, yet no one dared to speak up in defense. Hendrick was an example.


    He really served as a warning to everyone.


    Around noon, Ophelia received a message from Keh: [I''m downstairs. Let''s have lunch together.]


    Ophelia replied: (Okay.]


    Meanwhile, she stood up and said, "I have nothing else to say. The HR department should make ording adjustments first.


    Just


    t as she left the conference room, Phoebe hurried after her.


    Phoebe asked, "Elia, are you going downstairs for lunch? Let''s go together."


    "Sorry, I have other ns, Ophelia directly refused.


    In the conference room, the people there only dared to exhale a long breath after Ophelia had left.


    Wendy, the HR Director, searched for Ophelia online.


    She eximed, "Oh my gosh, Ophelia''s the founder of La Reverie!


    Someone asked, "What? The designer of the evening gown?"


    Everyone else gathered around, looking at the content on Wendy''s phone. There was only a side profile picture of Ophelia online, but it was enough for thein to recognize her. That was when someone remembered the key information.


    During her introduction, Ophelia did mention her name, but they didn''t really pay attention.


    Someone eximed. The founder of La Reverie was just sitting there! How did I not recognize my own idol?


    With his stuff just packed up, Hendrick overheard the conversation while passing by the conference room door in frustration


    He felt humiliated.


    Hendrick never expected that his past would be exposed by a youngdy he looked down upon.


    Previously, Hendrick imed Ophelia knew nothing about management or design, yet she turned out to be the founder of La Reverie. Now, he really regretted it


    Hendrick immediately lowered his head, walking sheepishly towards the elevator.


    Luckily, it wasn''t the lunchtime rush hour.


    Just then, a charming figure walked towards him


    Phoebe said gently, I''m sorry, I couldn''t keep your position." Her expression was filled with guilt.


    Hendrick was stunned.


    When he looked up, he saw Phoebe''s kind and beautiful face, and his heart raced.


    "No, it has nothing to do with you," said Hendrick.


    Phoebe handed over a business card and said, "Call him, and he''ll arrange a new job for you. If you need any help. feel free


    to contact me."


    Looking at the business card Phoebe gave him, Hendrick felt deeply moved.


    He was just about to express his gratitude when the elevator arrived.


    Feeling embarrassed, he dared not linger. He nodded to Phoebe and quickly slipped into the elevator.


    Ophelia came downstairs and saw the impressive off-road vehicle parked by the road.


    Keh had driven over himself, wearing a burgundy shirt and a ck baseball cap, looking quite mysterious.


    Ophelia opened the door and got into the passenger seat.


    Keh seldom drove himself,


    Observing him drive was indeed a delight. His hands were characterized by long, stender fingers and prominent knuckles. Adorned with a tailored watch on his left wrist, the brown leather strap was asionally visible as he grasped the ck steering wheel with a single hand, the strap pecking out from beneath his cuff.


    Ophelia felt it was a feast for her eyes.


    Yet, those hands were just as adept when performing other tasks


    Ophelia swiftly banished the inappropriate thoughts from her mind and inquired, "Why do you have time to meet me for


    lunch today?"


    This ce wasn''t exactly close to the Sinir Group, It took at least half an hour to drive there.


    Keh turned slightly to her, gently brushing aside strands of hair from Ophelia''s forehead, where a small, light pink scar had healed.


    He said. "From the way you''re talking, it sounds like you''reining that I used to spend less time with you, right?"


    Ophelia always believed Keh''s way of thinking was quite different from normal people''s


    She said, "Oh no, I was already really happy when you could spend the weekends with me before"


    Now, being together every day made her happy, but her back couldn''t handle it sometimes.


    Keh was just about to start the car when the window on Ophelia''s side was tapped.


    Phoebe was truly relentless, never giving up.


    Ophelia rolled down the window and asked, "What''s up?"


    Phoebe said. "Elia, Kenny, I just arrived in Denex and I''m not familiar with this area. Could you take me with you? Just drop me off at the restaurant, and I won''t interrupt your date." Phoebe seemed sincere, and her right shoulder appeared a bit stiff.


    Ophelia turned her head to look at Keh,


    Keh''s gaze turned cold instantly, and he said, "If you''re unfamiliar with this ce, just use GPS. I''m not a chauffeur, Does anyone get to ride in my car?"


    Ophelia said, "Sorry, Ms. Davidson..."


    Before Ophelia could finish, Keh leaned over to help her with the seatbelt.


    Their noture was intimate.


    Therge SUV appeared tock sufficient space to amodate a third passenger.


    Keh''s lips brushed Ophelia''s, and he whispered, "You haven''t even said you miss me yet." Seeing her rosy lips, he couldn''t resist kissing them gently. Ophelia thought, ''Well, didn''t we just see each other this morning?"


    It had only been three hours since Keh dropped Ophelia off for work this morning. In the past, they used to meet just once a week on weekends. Ophelia leaned back a little to get a clear look at Keh''s entire face.


    She said, "I guess I wasn''t missing you intensely enough for you to feel it."


    Keh''s eyes


    turned more affectionate as he held the back of her head. Then he lowered his head to capture her lips in a kiss, not caring at all about the third person next to them. He only felt satisfied after fully indulging in Ophelia''s unique scent.


    Phoebe was standing by the car, looking like a fool.


    Her face brimmed with envy and jealousy, but before she could utter a word, the ck SUV drove away, shrouding her in a


    15


    Wed, Nov


    cloud of exhaust fumesR¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Phoebe coughed and murmured. "Ahem... Kenny, am I really not as good as her?"


    She clenched her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her skin without her noticing.


    The ck SUV was parked in front of akeside restaurant,


    Upon entering. Ophelia noticed that they were the sole patrons in the opulent restaurant.


    "Mr. Sinir, I''ve taken the initiative to order your meal," Mark announced, standing by the door, poised to assist like a butler.


    Keh held Ophelia''s hand and led her to the most scenic spot to sit down.

 Jilted Bride 175

    0


    In the center of the hall, a soothing and romantic violin melody began to y, adding an air of leisure and romance.


    Keh took off his ck baseball cap, casually running his long fingers through his dark hair.


    The air of mystery disappeared, and he returned to his usual aloof, untouchable demeanor.


    This was actually one of the few dates they had, leaving Ophelia insure of what to do.


    She even felt kind of nervous.


    She asked. Do youe here often?"


    Ophelia looked around the ce. The setting was indeed nice, quiet fitting for Keh''s status.


    He said, "Not really. You should try the food here. If you like it, I have the chefse work at Rosewood Manor."


    It wasn''t surprising at all that Keh would say something like that. His words matched his personality perfectly. "Well, that''s unnecessary. We can juste here regrly," said Ophelia.


    It was nice to think of a visit here as a date once in a while.


    While waiting for the food, Ophelia had a casual chat with Keh.


    She stated, "The Huxley family is indeed not as genuine as the Reyes family. They had hidden agendas when they were on the verge


    of transferring thepany to me. If I''m not mistaken, the financial health of this clothingpany is far from


    good."


    Ophelia couldn''t be sure before, but after visiting thepany today, she was certain.


    Thepany had been drained by several parasites. It seemed promising from the outside, but internally, it was weak.


    Therefore, Ophelia was not nning to take on such a mess. If Phoebe liked it, she could have it.


    Thinking of the Huxley family, Ophelia asked, "I heard they started with a pharmaceutical business, right?


    Keh replied, "Yeah."


    Ophelia inquired, "Could you exin how the top three families in Denex rose to the top, aside from their wealth? And what about the Sinir family? I''ve always been curious," Keh slightly frowned and inquired, "What''s there to be curious about?"


    "Just for fun," Ophelia exined. If Keh didn''t want to talk about it, they could change the topic.


    "Why not talk about me?" Keh asked.


    Ophelia said, "What''s there to discuss about you? Is there anything about you that I haven''t seen or don''t already know?" They were as familiar with each other as they were with the backs of their own hands, Keh smirked, rxing back in his chair, crossing one leg over the other.


    He stated, "The Reyes family primarily trades in automobiles and electronics. The Huxley family concentrates on


    egie family, as you may know, has a presence in mineral oil in the surrounding pharmaceuticals and healthcare. The


    cities. Each family operates smaller ventures in various other sectors."


    5:03 Wed, Nov 20 D


    Ophelia could find the information online. She wanted to know something different.


    Keh continued, "These three gained their status as the top families mainly due to their wealth. As for the Sinir family, we manage a lot, primarily handling all transportation channels Even though his tone sounded casual, his words carried weight.


    Being in charge of all transportation channels meant that anyone engaged in import-export business had to deal with the Sinir Group.


    Those not involved in import-export businesses required various domestic and foreignponents, construction materials, and so on, all of which depended on Sinir''s transportationwork. Thus, although the Sinir family might not rank among the top three families in Denex, they still held sway over them, as the Sinirs had the power to easily manipte their lifeline Moreover, the Sinir Group''s control over the transportation-hannels extended far beyond just Denex.


    Because Denex was by the sea, it became an important transport hub


    Ophelia nodded gently.


    Keh uncrossed his long legs, leaned forward, and gazed at her with a charming intensity in his dark eyes.


    He said, "Now all of this is yours.


    His tone was doting and confident.


    The dishes were served quickly.


    Each dish was something Ophelia usually enjoyed. Keh remembered her preferences even better than she did.


    The chef prepared the food with expertise, and each exquisite dish perfectly satisfied her appetite.


    Ophelia praised, "Delicious! I have to say, in addition to having great taste in women, you have superb taste in food too." Keh chuckled at her remark, thinking, ''She''s really good atplimenting herself After the meal, seeing how much Ophelia enjoyed the food there, Keh immediately transferred the chef to Rosewood


    Manor.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    In the week that followed, besides chauffeuring Ophelia, Keh took her to enjoy different cuisines every day at lunch. Eight chefs were transferred to Rosewood Manor in one week.


    For the past few days, Ophelia had been busy in her studio.


    Since she visited Huxley Fashion that day, she hadn''t gone back


    It wasn''t worth her attention.


    Chloe said to Ophelia, "Elia, I think you''ve gained a little weight bately"


    Chloe looked at her with satisfaction, delighted that she had finally put on some weight..


    Ophelia''s once slender face had be slightly plump, which had the effect of making her appear at least three years younger.


    Now, her features looked more defined and attractive.


    Ophelia touched her face and nced at her reflection in the office window.


    She said. "Well, I''ve definitely gained a bit.


    Last night, Keh even mentioned that she felt more pleasant hold, being soft and tender.


    Ophelia was busy working on an evening gown.


    The ss schedule was crafted by Denex University. Ophelia had a ss session scheduled for Tuesday and another for Thursday.


    Enzo had already delivered the course sybus in advance.


    As a practical person, Ophelia didn''t find much use for theoretical topics,


    Chloe asked. "By the way, Elia, I''ve handled those shares you asked about. Now that the studio is expanding and working with more brands, have you thought about registering apany?"


    Ophelia said, "Yeah, that''s a good idea, but I''ll need your help."


    Chloe smiled happily and said, "Of course, just nod and I''ll take care of it


    They looked at each other with smiles.


    Your phone, Chloe said as she noticed the phone screen lighting up on the desk


    Ophelia nced at it, recognizing the familiar number.


    Phoebe''s persistence was truly impressive.


    She said, "Elia, are youing to the office today? There are a few things I''d like to discuss with you."


    Ophelia stated, "There''s no need to consult me anymore. I''ve already sold my shares. Once the contract is finalized, the new shareholder will assume control, and you can discuss all matters with him. There''s no need to contact me again." Ophelia finished speaking. Then she hung up the phone without giving Phoebe a chance to respond.


    Listening to the irritating beep-beep sound, Phoebe tightened her grip over the phone.


    The gentle expression on her facepletely cracked.


    It turned out the news she received was true.


    Ophelia really sold those shares to cut off ties with Phoebe.


    Back then, Phoebe spent 27 million dors to buy this thirty percent stake from Zayn, just to get close to Ophelia.


    However, Ophelia sold her thirty percent stake for just seven million dors.


    This meant the shares Phoebe paid 27 million dors for were now only worth seven million dors.


    That made Phoebe look like a fool


    Her face gradually turned gloomy


    A momentter, Phoebe made a call, her voice turning gentle again, "Mr. Rodriguez, is everything going smoothly with work there?"


    15.03 Wed, Nov 20


    Hendrick felt surprised and ttered to receive Phoebe''s call.


    He replied, "It''s going quite well. I owe my thanks to you, Ms. Davidson, for helping me get this job."

 Jilted Bride 176

    Hendrick''s recollection of Phoebe''s favor was precisely what she had hoped for.


    Phoebe said. "I just did what I should do, as long as you don''t me Elia


    It was better not to mention Ophelia.


    Upon hearing Ophelia''s name, Hendrick was reminded of the public humiliation he had endured. He remembered the curious and judgmental nces people had given him, which filled him with depression Originally, Hendrick could have had a sessful career at Huxley Fashion, doing import-export trade with enough benefits. to retire by forty. But now, he had to start over at anotherpany from square one. How could he possibly swallow that insult?


    Hearing Hendrick fall silent, Phoebe gently reassured him, "Alright, just focus off working hard. And once you''re settled in, you should treat me to dinner."


    Phoebe''s gentle and understanding voice touched Hendrick.


    He quickly agreed, "Yes, I definitely will


    After finishing her tasks, Ophelia nced at the time.


    She said, "Chloe, I gotta head out for a bit."


    Chloe replied. "Okay."


    Then Ophelia grabbed the khaki trench coat from the rack, slipped it on smoothly as she walked out, and took the elevator down to the basement level.


    As she entered the parking lot, she spotted a young man in ck leaning casually against her ck SUV.


    The young man, slim and d in a ck hoodie adorned with letters, had his hands casually in his pockets while chewing bubble gum. His checks bulged as he blew a sizable bubble. "Pifi..." The bubble popped.


    With a frown and a questioning look, Ophelia asked, "What are you doing here?"


    She wondered, ''Did he escape from Keh''s base?"


    Seeing Ophelia, Ray quickly put out his cigarette and greeted her, "Mrs. Sinir."


    Only then did Ophelia notice Ray,


    Ray donned a leather jacket atop a gray sweater. His ck stubble covered his jawline and spread to the sides of his face, His skin had a rough texture.


    His piercing. hawk-like eyes were entuated by his permanently furrowed brows, etching deep lines on his forehead. "What are you two doing here?" Ophelia asked again.


    "Caleb and Barrett have been assigned tasks, so Mr. Sinir sent us to protect you for the time being," Ray said. His voice was hoarse like the result of years of smoking. "Mrs. Sinir, where are you going? I''ll drive," said Ray 1/4


    1504 Wed Nov 20


    Ophelia said. Timi¨¨re Hotel


    "Alright Ray said and moved to open the car door but received disdainful nce from Eric


    Ophicha pullest a set of keys from her pocket and handed them over.


    Only then did Ray halt his attempt to open the car door


    He forgot he didn''t have the keys.


    He chuckled awkwardly and turned to re at Erie, saying, "You could''ve reminded me."


    Ray was driving, with Eric in the passenger seat.


    After getting in the car, Eric handed over some lollipops. They all had foreignbels that Ophelia had never seen before.


    Eric said. "They''re delicious. I found them during a mission in Dawnshirest time."


    He''d saved these few as if they were precious to him.


    Ophelia took just one and said, "Keep the rest yourself."


    These days, she seldom indulged in candy or sweets.


    Ophelia used to feel life was too bitter, so she constantly soughtfort in sweets.


    But now, she felt like she no longer needed thatfort.


    Eric quietly withdrew his hand.


    Suddenly, a rough,rge hand grabbed two pieces.


    One was stuffed into Ray''s jacket pocket, and the other was unwrapped roughly with his teeth and popped into his mouth.


    Ray said, "Man, your prized candy is really good. Next time I get to Dawnshire, I''ll get you more."


    All three of them in the car were sucking on lollipops.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Ray''s driving mirrored his personality: direct and aggressive. Hepleted a drive that usually took half an hour in less


    than fifteen minutes.


    Ophelia would have thrown up if she hadn''t had a lollipop in her mouth to distract her.


    He was driving as if his life depended on it.


    "Mrs. Sinir, we''re here," Ray said.


    As Ray spoke, Ophelia had already swung the car door open and stepped out.


    She moved over to the passenger side, tugged on Eric''s hoodie, pulled out a piece of bubble gum from his pocket, quickly unwrapped it, and popped it into her mouth.


    "What are you doing at the hotel?" Eric asked with curiosity, ncing at the hotel sign.


    Chewing the strawberry-vored gum, Ophelia tried to ease the churn in her stomach.


    "So now you can even recognize the word hotel?" Ophelia felt a moment of satisfaction, but the next moment, she realized


    she was wrong-


    1504 Wed, Nov 20


    Frie said. "I may not be able to read, but I''m not stupid You just mentioned you were heared to Lumi¨¨re Hotel


    Additionally, he could discern from the building''s architectural style that it was indeed a hotel


    Ophelia was rendered speechless.


    It appeared that she was unable to think clearly after suffering from car sickness,


    Ophelia had thought she''d bete, but now she found she had over ten minutes to spare.


    Today was the property auction day of the Hastings family.


    In the hotel conference room, Ophelia casually took a seat in the back row, with Eric and Ray sitting behind her.


    Gradually, people trickled into the conference room, but it never really filled up.


    On therge screen, a continuous loop disyed properties that once belonged to the Hastings family.


    There were houses, cars, securities, shares, and so on.


    The auctioneer announced, "We are nowmencing the auction for a 35% stake in the Hastings Group''s entertainmentpany, which holds a five-year operational license. Bidding begins at 400 thousand dors."


    If Owen had been present, he might have felt offended by the price.


    That was an exceptionally low price.


    When Ophelia initially purchased the rest of the shares of Sungate Entertainment, she spent a significant amount of money. People slowly raised their bidding paddles.


    However, thispany had a minimal roster of signed artists, and those who were once profitable had already ended their contracts. It did not even match the standards of an average studio, so in the eyes of most people, it held no value for them. Amidst the sporadic bids, Ophelia finally raised her bidding paddle.


    The auctioneer announced, 150 thousand dors, first bid, second bid, sold!"


    Ophelia bought the 35% shares that Emily once took pride in, at an amazingly low price.


    Next was the Hastings Vi; the luxurious mansion appeared on the big screen.


    The vi, which once disyed the owner''s prestige in every de of grass and tree, now seemed dull and deste, a mere echo of its former splendor.


    "The starting price is 1.5 million dors," stated the auctioneer.


    "This house looks pretty nice," Ray remarked, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair. "If I retire someday, a house like this would do just fine."


    Eric yawned out of boredom.


    "Didn''t sleep well? What did you do all night if you were not sleeping?" Ray''s voice was not too loud or too soft, and since they were in the back row, nobody was paying attention.


    Eric popped a mint candy into his mouth.


    "Hey, kid! I''m talking to you!" Ray gave Eric a light tap on the back of his head.


    Erie''s head jerked forward-and the mint candy slipped from his mouth before it even touched his tongue.


    He turned his head slightly, his eyes narrowing with a dangerous threat


    Ahem Ray quickly looked away and sat up straight.


    The house was auctioned off for 3 million dors.


    Next up were some cars and shares in a mutual fund, among other things.


    They were auctioned off at various prices, with some fetching high amounts and others going for lower surns.


    The auctioneer announced, "Up for bid next is a real estatepany affiliated with the Hastings Group, featuring an operational lease of ei

 Jilted Bride 177

    This was the highest starting price of the day, primarily because the real estatepany had two plots of undevelopednd. which was also the target for many attendees, including Ophelia She needed such apany toy the foundation for her ns to develop the slum.


    "Bidder Number Ten, 3 million!"


    "Bidder Number Twelve, 6 million!"


    The price quickly rose to 10 million.


    It was not extravagant; the value of the two plots of undevelopeilnd together was over 20 million,


    "16 million dors."


    The entire conference room went silent for a moment.


    Ophelia was about to raise her number paddle when a man sitting diagonally from her beat her to it.


    She nced over. The man wore a deep blue id tailored suit, radiating an aura of authority much like Keh''s, yet with a different vibe.


    Ophelia hadn''t noticed him before, but now that he had outbid her, it made her somewhat ufortable.


    Sensing an unusual gaze, the man turned his head. His sharp profile extended to a defined jawline, with a cleft chin.


    His eyes were ice blue, looking both intense and aloof, with an unsettling smirk.


    Ophelia looked away and raised her paddle, saying, "16 million and 500 thousand." The man chuckled softly. "Interesting. 16 million and 600 thousand."


    "20 million dors."


    The man wasn''t following the usual rules, so Ophelia had to raise her bid.


    "20 million and 500 thousand."


    Is he ying games with me? Ophelia thought while continuing to increase her bid, but decided that once it went over 24 million, it wasn''t worth it anymore. Eric tore open another mint candy, leaning slightly forward. "Eli, do you need me to handle it for you?"


    Ophelia shook her head and thought, ''After all, we''re in public, and the man doesn''t seem like one to be easily messed up


    with.


    Ray nced over there, then lowered his head and spoke softly. Mrs. Sinir, that man is the second son of the Davidson family, Jonathan Davidson." Jonathan? Ophelia thought, recalling seeing this name in the files about the Davidson family that Chloe gave her.


    Ophelia wondered, Why are people from the Davidson family alling to Denex? There''s no way I canpete with them in terms of money.


    "22 million." Ophelia raised her bidding paddle again, thinking. Not a penny more. That''s the maximum. If he bids higher,


    I''ll stop.


    Wed, Nov ZU


    15.04


    Then, just as Ophelia expected Jonathan to continue raising the price, he stood up, fastened his suit buttons, and left hisBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    As he approached Ophelia, his gaze fell on her, revealing a smirk full of intrigue, which seemed to Ophelia like a snake flicking out its forked tongue at her, and her hair stood on end involuntarily.


    In the end. Ophelia sessfully secured the real estatepany for 22 million dors.


    It was 3 million more than she expected, leaving her a bit frustrated.


    When out of the hotel, Ray went to get the car while Eric followed behind Ophelia.


    Just then, a Rolls-Royce Phantom pulled up in front of Ophelia and the rear window rolled down slowly.


    A pair of icy blue eyes looked at her with a bemused expression


    "Do you know what happens to those who steal from me?" The man''s voice was cold, pleasant in tone but chilling in its delivery.


    Eric took two steps forward, standing protectively in front of Ophelia, discreetly pulling out a small dagger from his hoodie pocket.


    "Do you know what happens to those who block my way?" Ophelia retorted, her voice biting from anger.


    Her bright eyes were covered with icy frost, even the tear mole beneath them seemed cold, not matching her normally lively appearance at all. The manughed, nodding as he raised an eyebrow. "I like your bravery."


    The car window slowly rolled up, and the vehicle drove off.


    Watching the tail lights of the Rolls-Royce, Ophelia couldn''t help but feel that Jonathan was dangerous.


    She had an inexplicable sense of being targeted by a serpent.


    It felt like the snake was hiding in the grass, waiting for the right moment to coil around her tightly and swallow her whole,


    Ray drove the car over, and Ophelia put away her disconcerting thoughts.


    When seeing Ray in the driver''s seat, she frowned and thought. If Ray drove me one more time, I''m sure to be sick.


    "Aren''t there other drivers?"


    "This kid can''t drive," Ray said, ncing at Eric, and thought, ''Even his ways of escaping were primitive."


    Ophelia had to give in and offered to be the driver herself while Ray and Eric both sat in the back seat.


    Eric wanted to sit in the front passenger seat, but Ray pulled him into the back, thinking, "If Mr. Sinir saw it, even 1 couldn''t save him.


    For the next half of the day, Ophelia was busy with the transfer procedures of the auction.


    She also transferred thirty percent of the shares of twopanies to Scott''s name.


    In the evening, Ophelia returned to Rosewood Manor.


    Keh didn''t pick her up tonight. She waited until eight, but he didn''te back. 15:04 Wed, Nov 20 ub


    It wasn''t until after she had-dinner, took a bath, and


    e out of the bathroom that she finally saw him.


    Ophelia was wrapped in a bath towel because she had forgotten to take her pajamas.


    Her hair was still damp, and there was a fragrant smell around her from the shower.


    "Trying to seduce me?" Keh asked in a low voice.


    "I didn''t even know when you came back. Ophelia rolled her eyes, thinking. Does he need me to seduce?


    "Then who are you waiting for?"


    There wasn''t a trace of jealousy in Keh''s voice: it was purely bit of yful mischief.


    Ophelia didn''t bother with him and changed the topic. "Have you eaten dinner yet?" "Not yet."


    "TII have someone to prepare some food."


    Tired, Keh nodded.


    When Ophelia brought dinner upstairs, Keh was fast asleep on the couch, his fatigued face tugged at her heartstrings.


    Ophelia wanted to take off his coat, but as she touched him, his eyes suddenly flew open, and she was pulled into his embrace in one swift motion. Gentle kissesnded on her softly.


    Atst, Ophelia slipped into bed, too exhausted to even keep her eyes open, and fell into a deep sleep with the man''s warmth


    from behind.

 Jilted Bride 178

    0


    Chapter


    178


    Keh held Ophelia in his arms, his thin lips brushing against her ear.


    "Little one, you''re still not giving up?


    Kemeth knew Ophelia buying the Hastings Group''s real estatepany to develop the slum


    Ophelia telt an itch in her ear, scratched it, and then turned around, curling up against Keh''s chest like a kitten.


    Keh stroked her soft body and thought, What should I do with her?


    63%


    The lights of the houses around Rosewood Manor went out one by one.


    In the silent night, a thin trail of white smoke drifted into the air next to a ck SUV.


    Not a single star in the sky, only a lone crescent moon hung there.


    At the door, a slim figure squatted with his chin resting on one hand, his hair tied back, bangs swaying in the breeze, his youthful brows tightly knitted in a frown.


    A low, raspy chuckle echoed from behind.


    The boy''s frown deepened.


    Suddenly, a de glinted in the moonlight, flying directly towards where theughter originated.


    Ray quickly turned his head as the dagger brushed past his ear, sticking into the tree trunk behind him.


    a "If you kill me, there won''t be anyone to buy you medicine. It''s your own fault for eating too much candy and getting a


    toothache."


    Ray took deep drag on his cigarette, tossed the butt to the ground and stomped it out, then carelessly threw a white stic bag next to Eric.


    Various painkillers and anti-inmmatory drugs were scattered all over the ground.


    "Take the medicine. It will make you feel better." Ray handed Erie a bottle of chilled mineral water. "Rinse your mouth first."


    Eric turned his head, seeing a rough hand holding a bottle of water, and didn''t take it.


    "Still holding a grudge? I''m willing to let you pay back the two shots you got from me, but you refused, didn''t you?" Ray threw the water to Eric..


    Eric unscrewed the cap and took a sip: the cold water temporarily eased his toothache.


    Ray lit another cigarette, standing beside Eric, his shiny ck leather boots catching the light.


    "Why would someone your age choose to be a killer?" Ray asked, bringing the cigarette to his lips and taking a deep drag, filling his mouth with nicotine.


    His index and middle fingers, from constantly holding cigarettes, had be a bit yellowed.


    Eric kept his chin on his hand, feeling a toothache was more unbearable than getting shot.


    He impatiently muttered a few words, "I don''t know."


    Eric thought, My foster father was a fugitive, so I became a kille After he died, I stayed in this line of work as I didn''t know what else I could do or was good at: Maybe to distract himself, Fric casually turned his head and asked. "Why do you do it?"


    "Me! It''s because this job pays well. A few years ago, I almost died Then, by chance, Ujoined the guild and gained some stability. At least with the guild''s protection, enemies don''te knocking." Protection? What''s that? Eric dish''t understand.


    Ray furrowed his brows. Just protection."


    He took another long drag, finishing the cigarette in no more than three puffs as usual. "Take your medicine."


    "It''s bitter,"


    "Afraid of bitterness but want to be a killer? Ray squatted down, opened a box of medicine, took out a capsule, and handed it over. "This one isn''t."


    Eric looked at the blue and white capsule in his palm. His eyshes fluttered slightly, then he tilted his head back and swallowed the pill, chugging the rest of the water in the bottle. "Cut out the candy.


    Eric replied. "If you quit smoking. I''ll quit sugar."


    Ray tapped the back of Eric''s head. "Kid, quitting smoking would be tougher than dying for me."


    Eric thought, ''Same for me. I''d rather die without sugar.


    The next day. Ophelia was going to teach at Denex University


    Keh lifted Ophelia from the bed and carried her to wash up while she thought, Thanks to Keh, I didn''t make any preparationsst night as I nned.


    Ophelia sat on the bathroom counter, still half-asleep, her forehead resting against Keh''s chest.


    Keh held theb, brushing her hair gently, his fingers asionally sliding through her soft strands.


    "Need help brushing your teeth?" Keh asked, squeezing out the toothpaste for Ophelia.


    "Yeah."


    Ophelia thought. He was indeed wildst night. Even my pleading didn''t help


    "Open your mouth."


    Ophelia obediently followed his order.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ""Rinse now."


    Then, Keh said, "I''m going to Waston in a few days. Do you want toe with me?"


    Ophelia felt the fresh mint of the toothpaste. After brushing her teeth, she felt sober and jumped down from the counter ssh some water on her face. "Going to Waston to meet Noah?"


    "Why would I see him? Ken th narrowed his over and hily tucked Ophelia''s forehead. Tll tell you once the schedule is


    set


    In the past few days. Keh was busy and couldn''t pick Ophelia up himself, which almost made her miss the times when Caleb and Barrett drove her around Drive slow today. I''m in no hurry. Ophelia instructed Ray, thinking. There''s no need to drive like we''re running for our lives


    "Alright" Ray agreed, opening the door for her.


    Ophelia wore a pair of ck pants and a brows trench coat, the top two buttons of her khaki shirt left undone, revealing her swan-like neck. It was simple but elegant. With the warning, Ray drove slower than the day before.


    "Mrs. Sinir, I think you should get sses to look more like a teacher."


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow, ncing at her reflection in the ss


    Half an hourter, the three of them arrived at an eyewear shop,


    Ophelia chose a pair of rimless sses, which immediately gave her a schrly vibe. Combined with her pure, charming face, she looked both innocent and alluring Turning her head, she saw Ray picking up a pair of oversized sunsses.


    Ray had a tough look that could scare kids to cry, and he looked even more like a bodyguard with the sunsses on.


    "How do I look? Do the shades suit me?"


    "Looks good, Eric replied casually, thinking, ''Ray does appear kinder with the sunsses covering his intimidating eyes Ray quickly took out his wallet and bought the sunsses. While paying, he asked Eric beside him, "Aren''t you getting one I''ll treat you."


    Eric shook his head.


    Later, the sleek ck SUV pulled up at the entrance of Denex University.


    Ophelia adjusted her sses a bit. "You two don''t need to follow me anymore."


    "But Mr. Sinir gave strict orders-"


    Eric interrupted, "With Elia''s skills, no one can mess with her."


    Ray hesitated. "But-


    "Eric''s right. It''s inconvenient with you two tag


    along to me at the university


    Ophelia thought. Besides, ever since myst kidnapping, Keh has put a system on my to call for help if I was in danger


    phone


    Actually, having Eric around isn''t such a bad idea. He looks just like a student and could help me avoid unnecessary troub But considering Keh''s jealousy, it''s better not to. 15:04 Wed, Nov 20

 Jilted Bride 179

    Ray was about to say something else when Erie rolled up the window, cutting off his talking.


    Sience fell inside the car, and then Ray''s rough voice spoke, "Yo better mind your manners from now on. No matter how close you were, she''s Mix Sinir now. You got it?"


    Ray took of his sses, his face deadly serious


    Seeing Eric didn''t respond, he asked with a darker face, "Did you hear me?"


    "So nagging"


    "Hey! Do you think I''m nagging? You brat, it''s for your own good to keep you alive."


    Ray thought, Eric''s too new to the guild to realize just how moody Mr. Sinir could be


    Eric unwrapped a lollipop and was just about to pop it into his mouth when two rough fingers pulled it away.


    "Your toothache is gone? Stop eating that. I''ll take you out for something better."


    Denex University, one of Heloria''s top schools, boasted premier educational resources. It had various majors, a strong faculty, and plenty of greenery throughout the campus with artistic monumental buildings. Stepping into the school again, Ophelia feltpletely different from her previous


    life.


    This ce was her dream university then, but now, she no longer entered as a student.


    Along the tree-lined path to the faculty building, with trees not yet fully green. Ophelia''s striking presence caught everyone''s


    attention.


    "Hello there, which major are you in?"


    "HiBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    i, can we get to know each other?"


    "Hey, can I friend you on WhatsApp?"


    "Hi"


    Ophelia''s cold eyes beneath her sses exuded a sense of detachment,bined with her breathtakingly stunning looks, making her seem unattainable.


    Seeing her ignore everyone who tried to greet her, eventually, people lost the courage to approach her anymore. Following Enzo''s instructions, Ophelia went straight to her office


    The door was open. In the spacious and bright office, one wall was lined with bookshelves disying various trophies, while another with design sketches, some of which Ophelia recognized as award winners. She gently knocked on the door.


    Enzo, who was writing, looked up, a pair of reading sses perched on her nose, entuating her naturally schrly demeanor.


    Elist


    I thought you''d arriveter, Enzo said, standing up and cing her sses on the desk as she walked around from behind it.


    He wore an elegant dark green dress with a shawl, looking digest and graceful.


    "Til tide yeniter to the principal, Raphael Glenn He''s thrilled out your joining us and insisted on meeting you in thvance Since you''re busy, the sses will be scheduled around your avability Alright. Thank you, Ms. Tyrus."


    Ophelia thought. With only two sses a week, I can make it


    After exchanging some small talk, Enzo took Ophelia to the principal''s office.


    Raphael had heard of Ophelia belore-the Heloria designer who had won first ce at the Global Couture Design Competition. However, there was little information about her online.


    It''s a rare opportunity to meet her, thought Raphael when Ophelia followed Enzo into the office.


    Kaphael was in his fifties and had slightly receding hairlines at the temples, giving him a kind yet authoritative presence.


    His gaze swept over Ophelia and turned back towards the entrance.


    "Ms. Tyrus, the designer you mentioned..."


    Raphael was just about to ask where the designer was when his eyes fixed on Ophelia, thinking. Is this young girl the designer?


    Raphael was surprised, but out of politeness, he didn''t voice his doubts.


    However, though he tried to hide his expression, Ophelia noticed it and adjusted her sses.


    She had expected this and thought, ''In fact, it would have been strange if he hadn''t reacted that way. But it seems these sses were a waste of money." "Please, have a seat," Raphael said with a hint of suspicion in his eyes, but considering Ophelia was rmended by Enzo, he gradually dispelled the doubts. Except for a simple hello, Ophelia uttered no word during the entire meeting and let Enzo do all the introducing.


    Raphael was impressed by Ophelia''s calm and modest nature.


    Besides, her titles as La Reverie''s founder and the winner of the Global Couture Design Competition qualified her perfectly to teach at Denex University, Surprising that Enzo had been able to connect with someone like Ophelia. Raphael even wondered if thepensation. offered was a bit too low. "Alright, let''s have Professor Spencer try it first."


    Professor Spencer? Ophelia thought as her eyebrow slightly raised; she wasn''t very fond of this title.


    "There''s a sophomore ss at ten. If there''s anything you need, just let us know,"


    Alright."


    After walking Ophelia to the door, Raphael stopped Enzo. ''Ms. Tyrus, can you stay for a moment and we can discuss your retirement package?" Enzo knew exactly what he wanted to discuss with her.


    "Elia, wait for me in my office."


    Chugons 120


    Alright, Ophelia repinef and len.


    However, whist Ophelia didn''t know was that just a few minutesfore she and Enzo walked into the principal''s office, a proble picture of her find created on Denes University''s expus forum. The scene was just the same as in her previous life.


    Its she a freshman? Howe I''ve never seen her before?)


    She must be new today. With looks like that, there''s in way we wouldn''t have noticed her.)


    (She''s like a fairy visiting the human world. Does anyone know what she inajoring in?


    [Whatever ss she''s in, she''s going to be


    I campuis queen diis semester.]


    [Isn''t she way prettier than Carly from Fashion Design?"


    [Carly just can''tpare to her, seriously.]


    Meanwhile, in the student council office, Carly was holding a meeting with the freshmen who just joined the councilst


    year.


    As soon as the meeting ended, a girl came over, "Carly, you''d better check out the campus forum. Should we find out which major she''s in?"


    At first, Carly paid little attention to it, but after she read the topments, her expression changed.


    Carly tucked her long hair behind the ear, tidied up the items on the table, and once most people had left, she snatched the phone from the girl and scrolled thements from the beginding to the end. Her face no longer showed the calm andposed look it had earlier.


    Carly thought, ''How dare they say I''m not as graceful as this new girl? It''s just a side profile, and they think she is prettier than me?"


    "Find her out! You help me look into this first. I need to visit Ms. Tyrus."

 Jilted Bride 180

    Ophelia walked out of the principal''s office and encountered two or three teachers she''d seen in her previous life, but she couldn''t recall their names.


    Descending a few more steps, Ophelia saw a pair of leather shoesing up, followed by a pair of dark blue baggy suit pants.


    Then, a metal-buckled belt appeared beneath arge belly with shirt stretched tightly around it and a suit jacket draped alongside, and finally, a middle-aged man''s round head popped up. The man adjusted his ck-rimmed sses, and his small eyes widened when he saw Ophelia.


    "Which ss are you from? I''ve never seen you around before."


    His voice was warm and hearty, his face wore a friendly smile while his small eyes turned into slits.


    "It''s a big university. Are you sure you''ve seen every student?"


    The man chuckled awkwardly, observing Ophelia up and down, and thought, ''Such a pretty girl! There''s no way I wouldn''t remember seeing her.


    That look made Ophelia very ufortable.


    The man was the head of the Fashion Design department, Zackary Gross.


    Ophelia remembered him so clearly because she had suffered a lot at his hands in her previous life.


    He was a typical two-faced person. With his sincere appearance and maniptive skills, he fitted in well at the university, creating an image of an honest and upright man in the public eye. But few knew about the dirty things he had done, like harassing and sleeping with his female students, epting gifts, and


    so on.


    In her previous life, Ophelia had bumped into Zackary right after she enrolled in the university.


    Ever since then, he had deliberately targeted her.


    Whenter he epted gifts from Emily, he became even more tant in his behavior against Ophelia, making her school life during those six months quite difficult


    Zackary climbed a few steps and looked Ophelia in the eye. Are you looking for someone? Tell me the name, and I''ll help. you."


    "No need."


    Ophelia walked past him to the side.


    Zackary purposely moved two steps in her direction "Oops! Sorry about that."


    He then stepped back to clear the way


    Ophelia walked by, leaving behind a faint, pleasant scent.


    Even after Ophelia had walked quite a distance, she could still sense Zackary''s creepy gaze, like a toad on her foot, making her sick.


    She returned to Enzo''s office and browsed her phone on the couch.


    Chapter Iso


    Just then, Ophelia heard two sets of footsteps echoing down the hallway.


    "Couldn''t find anything. There''s no record of a new student in the files. It''s tough to track her down without a clear picture or her name."


    The footsteps approached closer and abruptly stopped right outside the office door.


    Ophelia turned her head and locked eyes with Carly at the door


    Carly froze mid-knock, her hand suspended in the air.


    Looking at Ophelia, Carly was stunned by her beauty when she suddenly thought, ''Wait, isn''t this the girl from the forum?''


    Carly felt frustrated, reluctantly admitting that Ophelia was attractive while thinking, ''Why is she in Ms. Tyrus''s office? Could she be a student of Fashion Design? What are you doing here?"


    Ophelia nced at the girls at the door.


    She recognized them; the one speaking was Lesly Cordova, and in front of her stood Carly, the top student in Fashion Design.


    Carly had long, straight hair and was exceptionally talented in design, especially good with colors.


    Ophelia thought, ''Carly is probably Ms. Tyrus''s favorite student, I saw several of her award-winning designs just now. Although she isn''t stunning at first nce, Carly has aely face, and due to her bold dressing style, she captivated many guys


    "In my previous lives, we were in neighboring sses, and ever since I took her title as the belle of Fashion Design, Carly had been resentful and plotted a lot to embarrass me openly and secretly


    Carly looked at Ophelia with a hint of caution, holding a stack of design drafts in her arms, her hands slightly clenched.


    "Carly, it''s her," Lesly murmured.


    Carly ignored Lesly''s words but questioned Ophelia. "Are you from our university?"R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Carly thought. I have already recognized her. Do I need others to tell me that? This area was a college town. Maybe she''s from another school."


    Ophelia didn''t think well of them both and replied nothing.


    Lesly was irritated. "Hey! We''re talking to you. What''s your name? Are you from another school or a new student at Denex University?"


    Even though it was March, a freshman who registeredst September could start the school now.


    "Who do you think you are? Didn''t you already find from the student files that there is no new freshman? Why are you still asking?"


    Lesly swallowed, realizing Ophelia had overheard their earlier words.


    Carly said, "Sorry, we''re just wondering


    "Noisy


    Ophelia stood up and forcefully shut the door.


    The light dimmed for the two who had met with a cold reception at the doorway.


    "Why is she so stuck up" Lesly was annoyed, "Who is she to shut the door in our faces?


    Lesly wanted to push the door open bur was stopped by Carly. she''s from our school, will we ever miss a chance to teach her a lesson? Have you forgotten why I''m here?" Carly''s voice was just loud enough for Lesly to hear, and she thought, I am the vice president of the student council. Taking care of this new girl would be easy!"


    "Exactly! What''s the use of having a pretty face? Carly is the best Fashion Design and has won awards she couldn''t even dream of Lesly raised her voice on purpose. Ophelia heard everything inside the room.


    "Enough. This is Ms. Tyrus''s office. Don''t cause trouble.


    Carly thought. If this girl had any connection with or was a rtive to Ms. Tyrus, our words could get us into trouble.


    Soon, Enzo came down from the principal''s office and saw Carly and Lesly standing at the door.


    Carly handed the design drafts over. "Ms. Tyrus, this is our ss semester project."


    "Alright, thanks, Enzo said as she took the drafts and was about to enter the office.


    "Ms Tyrus, I have two questions I''d like to ask you," Carly said.


    "I''m afraid now''s not a good time. Come and see me this afternoon, Enzo politely declined.


    Before Carly could say anything else, the door was closed again.


    Carly felt upset, thinking, "Normally, Ms. Tyrus wouldn''t act like this. She always takes me seriously


    Enzo entered the office, covering her mouth as he coughed lightly, looking unwell.


    Ophelia quickly stood up and poured her a ss of water. "Ms. Tyrus, are you okay?"


    "It''s nothing. When you reach my age, getting sick is inevitable, Enzo said while coughing, cing the design drafts on the table and sipping the water slowly.


    pa


    After her throat felt a little better, Enzo set the ss down, picked up a notebook from the table, and handed it to Ophelia.

 Jilted Bride 181

    organized all of this to make it easier for you to read said En


    The handwisting in the notebook was neat and elegant.


    "Okay" Ophelia neerpted it. Feeling the embroidery on the cover, she found it so familiar.


    Closing the notebook, she noticed the cover was wrapped in embroidery, with a lifelike peacock in dark blue and moss green threads.


    Her tingemps gently traced over the embroidered patterns. It felt so familiar to her.


    "Ms. Tyrus, can I ask you a question?" asked Ophelia.


    "Go ahead, Enzo said, nodding slightly.


    Ophelia parted her lips, but her throat tightened, unsure how to ask.


    After a moment. Enzo covered her mouth and coughed heavily, her face turning pale.


    Ophelia gently rubbed his back, feeling the protrusion of his spine.


    Enzo took a few sips of water. "Ask when you''re ready. It''s almost ten. You should head to your ssroom."


    "Alright, get some rest," said Ophelia.


    I''ve arranged for Mr. Glenn to hold the office for you, I''m not feeling great, so I won''t be able to show you there myself. Ill have Mr. Glenn get someone to take you. Hurry up now," urged Enzo,


    Enzo took Ophelia''s hand and gently patted the back of it twice


    After Ophelia left, Enzo took out a bottle of medicine from the drawer. They were painkillers forte-stage cancer.


    Just as Ophelia stepped out of the teacher''s building, she saw Zackary, who had been waiting for her.


    "Sorry, Ms. Spencer. I mistook you for a student. I didn''t expect someone so young to already be a professor. It''s quite impressive. Mr. Glenn asked me to take you to the ss. This way, please." Zackary led the way with a bright smile. In fact, she didn''t need anyone to guide her. She was very familiar with the sophomore fashion design sses.


    Even though it was a short walk, she deliberately kept her distance from Zackary. Zackary kept trying to start conversation eager to learn more about her.


    However, Ophelia gave him the cold shoulder.


    Therge lecture hall was filled with people.


    There were three sses in the fashion design program, and for lectures like this, all the sses attended together.


    Suddenly, a guy shouted, "Whoa! Mr. Gross is bringing the genius girl to our fashion design program!"


    "Genius girl? Which genius girl?"


    "Who else? The one on the school forum..


    1


    "What Really


    Their weren''t many guys in the fashion design program, and even fewer who were normal. All of them craned their necks to look outside


    The girls were curious ton, but they made an effort to keep that curiosity in check


    Sitting in the front row, Carly felt her heart skip a beat. She wondered, Is she reallying to our ss?


    Even before Ophelia arrived, both the boys and the girls in the ss were already excited, let alone when she actually came.


    "Carly, is that girl really joining our program? Lesly was worried Carly hadn''t heard or wasn''t aware.


    "Wow! Mr. Gross even personally bought her here! Being pretty sure gets her special treatment!"


    "Alright, stop it. Can''t you see Carly''s face has turned pale?"


    "Don''t worry, Carly. You''ll always be my queen. Our fascination with her is just a passing phase. It''s you we really care about," the guy assured, though his darting eyes betrayed his casual tone "Maybe that girl doesn''t even look good up close, the people around tried tofort Carly.


    The more Carly heard these words, the more ufortable she felt.


    When Ophelia passed by the doors of other sses, the students inside also burst into excitement right away.


    Lesly yelled, "What''s with all the noise? Have you lost your mind That girl might be prettier than Carly, but she''s just an eye candy. There''s no way she can match up to Carly.


    "Don''t forget. Carly just won first ce in the national fashion designpetition. Could that girl do that?"


    Others agreed. "Exactly."


    Carly stared at Lesly like she''d gone mental. Carly thought, Is she stupid? What did she just say? Isn''t she just admitting I am not as hot as that other girl?" Zackary led Ophelia to the door.


    The lecture hall finally quieted down for a moment.


    The guys in the back were kicking themselves for not choosing to sit up front today.


    "Is Mr. Gross being a bit too much of a suck-up? Why''s he so polite to the pretty girl?"


    "Mr. Gross is nice to everyone though, isn''t he?"


    Zackary said, "Ms. Spencer, please go ahead."


    All the students couldn''t believe their ears. "What?"


    The entire lecture hall fell so silent that a pin drop could be heard.


    The next second, it was like a drop of water falling into a hot frying pan.


    "Ms. Spencer?"


    "What did Mr. Gross call her? Ms. Spencer?"


    "Is she... our new professor?


    Chapter Isl


    Caly then did everyone remember that they had heard they we getting a new professor this semester.


    every?nriemember beBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    But no one call associate this girl, who looked just like a college student, with the ntle professor.


    In the front row, Carly Lesly, and the others werepletely stocked, eyes wide open as they watched the young girl walk into the lecture hall.


    They thought, Is this a joke! This girl looks about the same age as us. How could she possibly be a professor?


    They seemed unable to believe their ears.


    Lesly asked. "Mr. Gross, what did you say? What did you say she was


    Zackary stood beside the podium and gestured to the students to quiet down. Quiet, everyone quiet


    The ssroom immediately became silent.


    Zackary had never realized how effective his words were. Not a single person dared to speak, and all eyes were on Ophelia, eagerly waiting to find out who she really was.


    Carly also clenched her fists, waiting for Zackary to make the introduction.


    "Ms. Tyrus is unable to teach this semester due to health reasons. Whether she will return depends on her recovery. Standing next to me is the new professor taking over Ms. Tyrus''s position. Let''s give her a warm wee," said Zackary. The apuse and cheers resonated throughout the entire ssroom.


    Carly''s face darkened.


    She couldn''t believe that the girl in front of her was their new professor.


    Carly thought, ''How can that be possible? This girl doesn''t even look older than me.


    "Mr. Gross, I have a question. Isn''t she about our age? Are you sure she can teach us? Won''t she lead us astray?" Lesly voiced what half of them were thinking.


    "Exactly! It''s better to have Carly teach than her


    Carly''s expression softened a bit. She was very confident in her skills.


    Zackary looked troubled. "Well..."


    He was surprised at first, too, but Raphael hadn''t exined anything to him yet. As ss time approached, he was unsure how to introduce Ophelia to the students. "Alright, settle down. Let''s have Ms. Spencer introduce herself to you all," said Zackary.


    The room burst into apuse.


    Zackary stepped back to give the podium to Ophelia.


    0

 Jilted Bride 182

    COMMENT


    Ephelia walked up to the podium confidently and adjusted the microphone to her height.


    Everyone was patient as shepleted her adjuments


    She lifted her head and casually nced over theed.


    Ophelia had an unspoken aura of authority that couldn''t be ignored.


    Those she nced at tell a strange urge to willingly hand over their phones


    Looking at those faces, both familiar and strange, Ophelia felt at ease.


    Being in a different position really changed her perspective.


    "Hello, I''m your new professor. My name is Ophelia Spencer," Her powerful voice echoed through the speakers. "Ophelia, what a beautiful name." The boy in the back row had stars in his eyes,


    "Why does it sound kind of familiar?"


    "Every girl''s name sounds familiar to you."


    "No seriously, this time it really does."


    In the front row, Lesly stood up and scoffed, "Is that all you have for an introduction? Surely you have more to tell us?"


    Lesly was convinced Ophelia had no impressive skills. If she did, she would have mentioned it in her introduction. Not saying anything else meant she didn''t have any big achievements to talk about "My parents are paying for me to learn at Denex University. Did they hire such ackluster professor!" The girl looked a Zackary


    "Exactly Does just anyone get to teach at Denex now!"


    A few girls were unhappy about it.


    Ophelia''s mere presence was enough to stir envy. Having someone like Ophelia in her early twenties, who looked ever younger than them, as their professor seemed like a bad joke.


    "Oh, I remember now." The boy''s voice boomed from the back, loud enough for everyone in the ss to hear, and they al turned to look at him curiously.


    "Ophelia. The founder of La Reverie. That''s why her name sounds familiar. Didn''t you guys know?" the boy said excitedly


    The others were confused, "La Reverie?"


    Yeah, even M.


    Tyrus mentioned Ophelia''s designs in ss. She''s the only designer from our country who''s made it big the international scene.


    "Didn''t you know that? Don''t go around iming you''re from Denex University''s fashion design major if you don''t evi know this. The boy''s words hit like a surprise lightning strike.


    The whole ssroom erupted into chaos, and everyone turned back to look at Ophelia with changed expressions.


    Lesly turned her eyes, sneaking a look at the person on the podium.


    She wondered. Is she really that amazing? Then why didn''t she truce herself before?


    International scene? Whatever. It''s just a meaningless title Carly is mumber one in the country: Lesly was just being


    stubborn


    The boy snorted, "Seriously? A meaningless title? Have you ever heard of the Global Couture Design Competition? Let me clue you in Carly''s not even on the radar to be invited. Ophelia on the other hand, is a champion. How clueless can you be?" "You Lesly was left speechless, clenching her teeth tightly.


    The girls who initially thought Ophelia was just a pretty face suddenly fell silent, timidly lowering their heads, afraid that Ophelia might remember them.


    Carly, who had been silent so far, was too shocked to speak after bearing the girl on the podium mention her name,


    She thought, So, she is the legendary Oplselia. The young person whom Ms. Tyrus always mentioned with admiration.


    I have explored her design works countless times. I never expected that such a legendary figure would appear here today. To my surprise, she is so young and beautiful.


    Luckily, she''s a professor, so at least she''s not in the running for school belle.


    Seeing that no one below had any more questions, Zackary breathed a sigh of relief and looked at Ophelia on the podium. "Well, Ms. Spencer, I''ll let you start the ss. If there''s any issue, feel free to contact me," said Zackary.


    After Zackary left, the ssroom waspletely silent, especially Lesly, who had been leading the challenge earlier. She now wished she could vanish, feeling utterly humiliated.


    "Any more questions? If not, I''ll start the lecture Ophelia''s tone was calm, showing no trace of emotion.


    Her cold aura was intimidating, and the guys didn''t dare to joke around.


    They had never paid such close attention to a full 80-minute ss before,


    Not a single person was daydreaming, dozing, or checking their phones.


    "Any questions on what we covered today?" asked Ophelia.


    "No..." everyone answered in unison.


    This ss rified two questions for Carly that she had wanted to ask Enzo, leaving her feeling enlightened.


    "ss is over," Ophelia said, ending the ss exactly on the dot.


    A crowd gathered at the ssroom entrance. In just one ss period, word spread like wildfire through the design department. The brainy beauty from the forum wasn''t a freshman or a counselor, but a professor in the fashion program She was a professor.


    The whole school was buzzing about it, and Ophelia''s information quickly appeared on the school forum.


    "Ms. Spencer, please wait, Carly called out, catching up with her looking both respectful and a little scared. "Ms. Spencer, I''m sorry about what happened earlier. I hope you won''t hold it against me."


    She had talked about giving Ophelia a hard time before, but now she didn''t dare to.


    Feeling guilty, she hoped Ophelia hadn''t overheard what she had said. Chapter 189


    it


    Caly thought. What if she overheard It''s better to apologize Brst?R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Timm Ophelia responded with a cold tone, still not warming up to Carly


    To her previous life, Carly had trapped her in the bathroom to keep her from taking an exam, and Ophelia wasn''t quick to torget such a thing.


    But now, being a professor, she couldn''t use her position for personal payback. It was tough.


    "How can I get to the Centennial Library at Denex University Ophelia asked casually. She had known about the library in her previous life but had never visited it.


    The campus was huge, and she knew it would take time to find on her own.


    "Hul? Do you want to go to the Centennial Library? I can take you there," Carly offered.


    She couldn''t pass up such a great opportunity to make a good impression.


    With her books in her arms, Carly led the way.


    Ophelia followed her, and as they walked, it was hard for people not to notice the two beautiful women.


    After walking for ten minutes, Carly said, "Here we are, the Centennial Library."


    Although it was called the Centennial Library, it had been renovated, keeping just enough of the old charm without messing up the looks.


    Carly was curious. "Are you looking for a specific type of book? It''s reallyrge inside. Tell me the title, and I''ll help you find


    IL


    Seeing as Carly was offering assistance, Ophelia decided to take advantage. "I need books on the history of Denex''s development." Carly was surprised. "What?"


    Do they even have books like that?'' wondered Carly.


    Judging from Carly''s expression, it was clear she didn''t know.


    Ophelia entered the library by herself. The ce was vast and eerily silent, broken only by the asional rustle of turning pages.


    The books on each floor were neatly organized, but with the overwhelming number of volumes, it would take her a while t locate the specific titles she sought.

 Jilted Bride 183

    Catly followed behind Ophelia, wondering. "The history of Delfiner''s development? Can''t she just search for that online?


    Ophelia paused her steps, turned her head slightly, and lowered her voice. "Don''t you have sses? Why are you following


    mw


    "I don''t have sses this afternoon. I''ll help you look for them" With that said, Carly began darting between the bookshelves, eagerly searching for the books.


    Ophelia gave her a brief nce, withdrew her gaze, and began searching for books herself.


    Time slipped away quietly, apanied by the soft rustle of turning pages.


    None of the books Ophelia looked through had any useful information.


    She wondered if maybe she was searching in the wrong direction


    Carly said, "Ms. Spencer, take a look at this one."


    A book with a dark red cover was handed to Ophelia. The color was like long-dried blood, creating a stifling feeling.


    The book was titled "The Old Denex.


    Just from the title and cover, it seemed more like a novel.


    In fact, when Ophelia opened it, it turned out to be a novel.


    The author went by the pen name Jason, and the protagonist was named Jake.


    The story seemed to be set twenty to thirty years ago.


    Back then, everything wasn''t as convenient as it was now. Jake, who came from a small town to make a living in Denes, was struck by the dazzling vibrancy of the big city for the first time. At seventeen, it was an age where he was curious about everything.


    a


    He worked carrying packages at the Denex docks, making 100 dors a month. He needed to return the bottles of beer. ? te of pasta cost fifty cents, and a formal meal was 3 dors.


    His biggest dream was to save up enough money to spend a whole day in the movie theater, a ce where all the wealthy folks hung out.


    He also wanted to check it out.


    Ophelia flipped through a few pages. It was all descriptive, written in a clear and straightforward manner, easy to read but not very gripping.


    At that moment, her phone vibrated in her pocket.


    Keh was calling, and she didn''t dare ignore it.


    She walked to the window and answered the call. A deep, pleasant voice came from the other end. "What are you doing?"


    "Atthe library," she answered softly.


    "Alright, I won''t be able to join you for dinner tonight, so get some rest early," said Keh.


    Chapter 1st


    62%


    He had been especially busy these past few days. This arrangement was perfect for Opliels as it gave her time to read in the evening


    It was only after the call ended that she realized it was already past five o''clock.


    Looking up, she realized that the library had seen a whole bume of peoplee and go


    "Ms. Spencer, I''ve found two more books for you, Carly said, bringing over two more hooks.


    Ophelia could tell that Carly was really making an effort to help her find the books.


    "Thank you. I''m sorry it took so long. You didn''t even get a chance to have lunch, Ophelia said.


    Carly replied, "No worries Consider it a diet day"


    "Could you help me check out these books? Just these few. There were two more she hadn''t finished, which she intended to take home and savor at her leisure. Ophelia nced at the novel again and ced it on top of the pile. "These five in total.


    "Sure, no problem," Carly was happy to help.


    The checkout was a quick process.


    After Ophelia thanked Carly, she carried the books and left the library.


    After she left, Lesly came over to look for Carly.


    "Carly, what are you doing here? I''ve been looking for you all afternoon. Carly, I have a great idea to get back at that new professor," said Lesly.


    What''s the big deal?'' thought Lesly.


    Carly frowned, "What are you nning?"


    Look at this." Lesly proudly handed over her phone.


    It was a video with a supermarket scene.


    Carly asked, "What''s so interesting about that?"


    Isn''t it just a supermarket argument? thought Carly.


    Lesly pointed at the person on the screen. "See who that is? Isn''t that Ms. Spencer, having a fight in a supermarket, acting all self-righteous? Can such a person really be a professor? I have to make sure all the guys see this clearly." Carly warned, "Don''t go posting it everywhere."


    Lesly was startled by Carly''s sudden shift in attitude. She didn''t say that earlier today.


    "What are you afraid of? Afraid she''ll use her power for personal revenge? What''s there to be afraid of? In this digital age, if she dares to do that, we''ll expose her online and get the school to suspend her," said Lesly.


    Besides, if a video like this got out, it would tarnish her reputation as a teacher, and her chances of staying at Denex University would be zero.


    "Ms. Spencer is really kind and didn''t even take offense at what you said in ss. I think by following Ms. Spencer, I can truly learn something valuable," said Carly.


    Ledy looked at her fi pwise Aren''t you worried Andrew rig the interesteil in her


    At the mention of Andrew Coner, a bhish of shyness mixed wit


    Hashed across Carly''s ryc


    Lesly said, Tm doing this for your own good, Everyone knows Andrew''s got a thing for the former school belle, and honeatly. Ms. Spencer looks and acts a lot like that girl. Plus, she a professor. It''s hard not to be drawn to her Carly didn''t take it to heart. In any case, don''t do anything reckless.


    "Alright, alright... Lesly agreed on the surface, but in her heart, die was still nor convinced


    That night, she quietly uploaded the video online.


    At Rosewood Manor, Ophelia stayed in the study after dinner, continuing to delve into the books,


    She read until her eyes started feeling a bit sore


    She yawned, flipped through a few more pages, and her eyelids started to feel heavy. Somehow, she ended up falling asleep at her desk.


    Late at night, when Keh returned, he noticed the study light was on and the door was open.


    Ophelia was dozing, resting her head on her arms, one of which was pressed down on a book.


    Keh walked over, carrying a faint smell of blood.


    He only nced briefly and understood why she was reading these books.


    He carefully picked up Ophelia and carried her to the bedroom. As heid her on the soft bed, Ophelia slowly opened her


    acyes.


    She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer.


    "You''re back... Her voice wasnguid and sweet, sending a pleasant shiver through his heart.


    Keh said, "Not sleeping? If not, then get up and do something


    Hearing this, Ophelia immediately closed her eyes, let go, pulled the covers, and turned over.


    She acted as if she hadn''t said anything.


    This guy had only one thing on his mind


    Keh chuckled softly and ced a gentle kiss on her forehead. "Sleep tight."


    Ophelia wanted to ask if he was going to sleep, but she hesitated, worried that he might drag her out of bed and start mi out with her.


    She started off pretending to sleep, but then she really did drift off.


    In the middle of the night, Ophelia sensed that the spot beside her remained vacant, and upon reaching out, she felt no


    warmth.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    She instinctively opened her eyes, wondering. ''Did Kehe back or not? He must havee back, or how did 1 up back in the bedroom? Then why didn''t hee to the bedroom to sleep?"


    15.05 Wed, Nov 20 ILO


    ¦°


    It was still dark outside, and pnly a dim night light lit up the room.


    She got up from the bed and quickly threw on some clothes.


    As she left the bedroom, she noticed a strip of lighting from under the study door.


    As she got closer, she could barely hear Keh''s deep voice though the door.

 Jilted Bride 184

    The conversation abruptly stopped, as if Keh had sensed someone at the door and fell silent.


    Ophelia vaguely heard someone say, "Don''t let them die."


    She gently knocked on the door twice and stepped inside.


    The study was filled with thin whiffs of smoke.


    In the dim light, a tall, striking figure stood by the window, holding a ss of whiskey in one hand and a cigarette betweer his fingers


    The bottles on the bar were almost empty.


    Keh radiated a sense of gloom, his lonely figure tugging at her heartstrings.


    Keh slightly turned his head, his almost otherworldly profile looking shadowy and surreal in the night light from


    outside.


    Ophelia hadn''t seen this side of Keh in a long while.


    She wondered if this was the kind of life he lived all those years without her, under Ivy''s control.


    Ophelia walked over and hugged him from behind, her soft cheek resting against his back. "Why aren''t you asleep yet?"


    She adopted Keh''s usual tone and questioned him,


    Her voice, still thick with sleep, was unnervingly soft and captivating.


    "Why are you awake?" Keh shot back as he turned around and pulled her into his arms.


    "1


    I couldn''t sleep well without you here. Are you troubled by something?" Ophelia rested her chin on his chest, looking up at


    him.


    The gloom around Keh gradually faded as he ced the wine ss next to him. He had already put out the cigarette the moment Ophelia entered. He gently patted her head with his slender, defined hand.


    Looking into her clear eyes, Keh wrapped his arm around her waist, burying his head in her neck. "Yes, it''s bothering me. I just want to sleep with you." Ophelia was at a loss for words and let out a gentle sigh. "Can I help you take a bath? You reek of smoke, and it''s not really my thing


    "Okay, Keh agreed, holding her face as if he could lose himself at any moment, his gaze tender and brimming with


    emotion


    Ophelia asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Ts my face creased from sleeping?'' wondered Ophelia.


    Nothing I just wanted to look at you" Keh embraced her, his arms gradually tightening as if he wanted to merge her with his very lones. They returned to the bedroom where Ophelia helped him bathe


    1/44


    000:95%0


    Although she said she was helping him, he didn''t cooperate at all. He wouldn''t even unbutton his shirt, insisting she unbutton each one for him.


    Halfway through, she could see his muscr chest under the ck shirt and the partially hidden letter tattoo.


    She took care of him like he was a big baby,


    This "big baby" wasn''t very obedient. In no time, he''d soaked her nightgown.


    Her stunning figure was almost entirely exposed.


    Ophelia met his gaze, which seemed more intense than ever.


    Feeling nervous, she instinctively tossed the towel onto his head, shielding herself from his intense gaze.


    Ophelia said. "Alright, you''ve had a long day. Let''s get some sleep soon."


    That was not what she said earlier.


    Keh removed the towel from his head, droplets of water running down his messy hair.


    He frowned, "What do you mean? Are you worried I am too tired to make you happy?"


    Ophelia almost rolled her eyes. She wouldn''t dare suggest that.


    "Keh, it''s reallyte. I''m tired," she said.


    "Alright, your clothes are soaked. Let me assist you in changing. When Keh offered to help her change, he was genuinely just helping her get into dry clothes.


    Once they were dressed, he pulled the nket over them and held her tightly in his arms.


    "Goodnight, honey, he whispered in her ear,


    "Goodnight," said Ophelia.


    Late into the night, in an old-fashioned mansion, a man with refined features sat in a ck armchair, holding a ck cat. His sharp chin and cold blue eyes bore a striking resemnce to thenguid ck Persian cat resting in hisp. The cat meowed. The man gently stroked the cat''s soft fur, his expression showing a hint of mischief.


    The door opened, and two figures walked in one after the other.


    The dim lighting in the room created an inexplicable sense of pressure, and it was unclear whether it stemmed from the darkness or the man seated in the chair.


    Jonathan Phoebe''s voice was tinged with caution.


    "How''s the task going?" the man''s pleasant tone carried no warmth.


    Phoebe hung her head. "I''m working on it."


    "Working on it?" Jonathan''s spice rose at the end, his icy gaze falling on Phoebe''s charming face.


    Fiona chimed in at the right moment, "Mr. Davidson, we''re already working on Heloria Trade Summit backs him to be the mayor of Denex, our n to build a dock and harbor in Denex will


    1. it. I''ve connected with Duncan. Once the


    work out:


    8K 95%


    Jonathan snapped. "Work out? Do you think Keh is stupid? The Sinir Group has controlled the transport routes for years. Do you think we can just build ports and docks at will? Fools." Fiona lowered her head, not daring to say another word.


    Jonathan, I actually think we can get Keh to give up part of his transport line by targeting someone close to him," Phoebe cautiously suggested. There''s a very important woman by his side. As long as we..." A chilling gaze locked directly onto her.


    Phoebe nervously swallowed hard..


    "Do you think I don''t know what''s on your mind? Phoebe, don''t treat the Davidson family like fools, Jonathan''s voice was. soft, but every word hit Phoebe''s heart. Phoebe exined, 1-I didn''t. When I first got in touch with Ronan, he swore that if I aided him in taking back the Sinir Group, we would get two transport routes. "But... there was a little problem. Still, I haven''t made Keh suspect t


    the Davidson family. You''ve got to trust me on this, Jonathan,"


    "You idiot! Do you think you can pull this off? Keh definitely holds the Davidson family responsible for this.


    "Phoebe, get your head in the game and drop the dumb thoughts. If you''re going to be the Davidson family''sckey, then do it right snapped Jonathan.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Phoebe took a deep breath, clenched her hands tightly, and then quickly released them, letting out a soft sigh, I understand. Jonathan."


    "In a few days, there''s a business conference, and you have to cope with me,


    me, said Jonathan.


    Phoebe nodded. "Okay,"


    As soon as she finished speaking, the phone on Jonathan''s desk rang.


    Jonathan, we''re heading out now. The two of them discreetly left.


    Jonathan answered the call, and a subordinate''s voice came through the receiver. "Mr. Davidson, none of the people we sent have returned." Jonathan''s eyes darkened, and he quickly brushed the ck cat off hisp.


    The ck cat quickly slipped into the gap under the sofa.


    A ruthless glint shone in Jonathan''s eyes.


    After leaving the estate, Phoebe turned her head and nced at Fiona. "Fiona, has Ms. Emma Davidson been found?"


    Fiona shook her head and replied, "Not yet


    Let''s not tell Jonathan and my parents about this yet. I don''t want them to get their hopes up," said Phoebe.


    "Yes, Ms. Davidson. Fiona nodded.


    III


    1/

 Jilted Bride 185

    The next day. Ophelia arrived at the studio, nning to discuss the recently acquired real estatepany with Chloe.


    "Ms. Spencer."


    "Good morning. Ms. Spencer."


    A lot of people greeted Ophelia along the way, but their expressions seemed a bit different than usual.


    "Elia" Chloe came out of the office, looking somewhat serious. She handed her phone to Ophelia. "Take a look at this trending topic.


    Ophelia nced at it briefly. #DenexUniversity ProfessorHits SomeoneAtGrocery Store#


    She frowned slightly and tapped to take a closer look.


    Never seen someone so arrogant, cutting in line and hitting people. This person is a professor at Denex University. With this kind of behavior, she''s setting a bad example for students.] Ophelia snorted, thinking. Does it have to be that obvious?"


    There was also a video included.


    The video was a bit noisy, making it hard to hear the conversation, but it was clear that she was holding the woman''s wrist with a calm and indifferent expression. The woman whose wrist she was gripping looked quite miserable. In the end, the camera clearly captured the woman''s timid look at her.


    This happened on the day the film crew began shooting. She and Sharon went to the supermarker and encountered a woman falsely using a little girl of stealing a phone.


    Unexpectedly, someone with bad intentions filmed a video, edited it to twist the facts, and posted it online.


    "Ignore it. Ophelia looked away, unconcerned.


    Chloe said. "But people online are digging up your personal info now"


    Ophelia thought, ''Are these people really this bored?


    Yeah, people online nowadays are willing to believe anything they see.


    "Anyway, they don''t have to take responsibility for what they say online, so people just like to mindlessly bash others. Plus, if


    it were an ordinary person, it probably wouldn''t cause such a stir.


    ''But add the words "professor at Denex University" and it carries a whole different weight.


    "Have they traced the source of the video? Let''s just handle it legally," asked Ophelia


    She didn''t have the time to bother with such a trivial matter,


    They''ve checked. It''s a student from Denex University. Are you sure you want to go through with legal action?" Chloe knew Ophelia well. She was the kind to give someone a second chance due to her kindness. "Yes." Ophelia nodded.


    95


    She had given the second chance in her previous life.


    Chloe raised an eyebrow, looking a bit surprised but also pleased. "You''ve learned well from Mr. Sinir."


    "Really?" asked Ophelia..


    Did she?


    The two naturally skipped over that topic and started discussing the real estatepany.


    In this area, they were both inexperienced and needed to hire experts from outside to manage it.


    Currently, thepany had nothing but two pieces ofnd and couldn''t operate properly.


    They needed to recruit department heads to get thepany running. It was a major task.


    Chloe selected several executives from otherpanies through a headhunting agency. Ophelia took a look and wasn''t particrly satisfied.


    Suddenly, she pped her forehead, realizing how simple it was to hire people.


    Hiring top-notch talents for each department was even simpler


    It was the internship and job-hunting season for the seniors at Denex University. Instead of recruiting seasoned professionals from the business world, she could give these inventive college students a shot. She mentioned it to Chloe, and they immediately saw eye to eye


    Just then. Ophelia''s phone rang.


    "Ms. Spencer? This is Mr. Glenn," said Raphael


    It wasn''t hard to guess why Raphael was calling, especially with Denex University" still trending on social media.


    Raphael cleared his throat and spoke politely, "I''ll get straight to the point. I''m calling about the online rumors regarding your altercation at the supermarket. The situation is escting and impacting both you and the university, so we need to discuss how to address iL" "What exactly do you mean, Mr. Glenn?" asked Ophelia.


    Raphael said, "If there''s been any misunderstanding. I hope you can respond quickly. But if..."


    The remaining words didn''t need to be spoken. They both knew what it implied.


    Ophelia said, "Alright, I understand. I''ll handle it"


    That was the response Raphael was hoping for. If she resolved in that would be ideal. If not, the school could always issue a statementter.


    At the girls'' dormitory of Denex University, "Lesly, didn''t you promise me you wouldn''t share that video?" Carly questioned, as the video shot to number one overnight.


    Lesly looked innocent. "I didn''t release this video. You can''t keep things like this a secret forever. Ms. Spencer''s integrity is questionable. Even if I didn''t expose it, wasn''t someone else bound to step up for justice?"


    News about this incident was appearing all over the inte, and it also made its way to the school forum.


    Yesterday, the forum was abuzz with posts about The Genius Glil is a Professor, and triday it was Line at Supermarket and 11its Sonicone",


    about "Professor Cuts


    "Carly, I''m really doing this for your benefit. Without Ms. Spencer, the school will hire other professors. You''re smart and quick on your feet. Andrew''s graduating and starting his internship this year, so you should make the most of this final six-month chance," said Lesly Carly couldn''t be bothered to talk to her and turned to leave.


    Lesly was the only one left in the dormitory. She picked up her phone and continued to steer online opinion, directing the me toward Ophelia


    [There are all kinds in this world. Tve heard she''s not only a professor at Denex University but also the founder of the  Reverie" brand] [Really? She''s the one? I can''t believe I liked the "La Reverie branil so much.]R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    [I''ve found it!]


    Someone released Ophelia''s unedited information to the public.


    It now trended on social media again. #Realldentity Of TheAssaulting Professor #LaReverie FounderAssaults#


    Lesly watched the cluelessizens attacking Ophelia, and a smirk appeared on her lips.


    She thought. Why does this woman have it all? She''s young, beautiful, a professor, and has won so many awards. It''s just not fair


    Now she is getting mmed by so manyizens. That''s what fairness looks like!


    At that moment, a trending topic reached the top spot. #RexReyesSpeaksForThe used#


    Lesly frowned and quickly opened the trending topic. She wondered, "Is there something wrong with the topic? Shouldn''t it be "speaking for the person who was beaten"?


    Rex: [Let me see who''s spreading this crap. Are you guys blind? My sister was obviously defending what was right. Who among you actually saw her hit anyone? Don''t just watch a video and start bashing without using your brains. A bunch of nobodies.] Another trending topic reached the top. #SharonCampbell Tell HerSide#


    Sharon [I was there. Thedy in front falsely used the little girl of stealing her phone and even got physical. Elia stepped in to defend the girl, just asked thedy to apologize, and did not get physical herself.]


    Thomas: [My wife is right. Even though I didn''t witness it myself you can check the supermarket''s CCTV footage to see what truly happened.]


    Lesly, who was originally rxed, suddenly sat up straight, confused. ''What''s happening? What''s going on? Why are celebrities speaking up for Ophelia?


    Suddenly, the tide of public opinion shifted.


    Wair, what? Ophelia is actually Rex''s sister? Thank goodness I didn''t get her wrong.]


    [I trust Sharon. If Sharon says so, then her friend must have great character.]


    [Thomas has a point too. We can''t just look at things on the surface. We shouldn''t jump to conclusions without understanding the full story. 10:51 Thu, Nov 21


    [We need the full video to understand what happened.


    0

 Jilted Bride 186

    In an instant, a swarm of people flooded into Lesly''s alt ount


    What''s really going on? Did you see it with your own eyes?]


    [Reveal the full story!]


    If you don''ty it all out, it''s just spreading rumors.l


    [Show the full video.]


    After the three celebrities spoke up, all thements and private messages demanded to see theplete video.


    Lesly waspletely dumbfounded, wondering, ''Why isn''t it turning out as I expected?


    Before she could figure things out, an unknown call appeared on her phone.


    "Hello, is this Ms. Cordova? I''m thewyer for Ms. Spencer. You''ve been spreading rumors online, which is defamation, and it has seriously harmed my client''s reputation.


    "I''m calling to officially inform you that my client intends to pursue criminal charges against you. The documents will be mailed to you within two business days."


    "What? What are you saying? Hello! Hello! Lesly shouted to the phone.


    The call was hung up.


    Lesly was stunned, her hand trembling as she held the phone, and all color drained from her face.


    Gone was the confidence she had while stirring things up just moments ago.


    She wondered, ''Ms. Spencer actually hired awyer? Is she really nning to take me to court?


    She was on the verge of tears, wondering, What should I do?


    In a panic, she grabbed her phone, scrolled to that tweet, and quickly hit delete.


    Just a few minutes after she deleted the tweet, the supermarket''s official ount posted the full surveince video from that day


    The events unfolded exactly as Sharon had described on Twitter


    It was clear that Ophelia was defending what was right.


    The cashier who was working that day also released a video exining what happened.


    With the truth revealed, theizens who were misled by Lesly felt fooled and immediately started attacking her.


    All night, Lesly didn''t dare to check her phone. She tossed and turned in bed, and whenever she checked, she''d see hundreds of hateful messages, even her parents were dragged into it. For the first time, she felt the fear of being exposed online, and even her main ount was found.


    Before anyone could find her personal information, she quickly deactivated both ounts.


    But the inte had a capable memory, and the more she acted this way, the guiltier she seemed


    S95%


    10:51 Thu, Nov 21 B G.


    The next morning, Lesly nervously walked into the ssroom, her heart heavy, feeling like a shell of herself.


    Last night, Carly figured out what had happened and thought Ledly brought it on herself. Thankfully, she hadn''t listened to Lesly.


    People around were still talking about the online scandal.


    "Did you guys see it? The full video from the supermarket was released, and Ms. Spencer was clearly defending what''s right." Who would spread such dumb rumors? Don''t they have anything better to do?"


    "I wish I knew who it was."


    "And those inte trolls, always jumping to conclusions without any evidence."


    Hearing all this, Lesly swallowed hard, keeping her head down and trying to make herself less noticeable.


    "But really. Ms. Spencer has some wide connections. Even people from showbiz helped her clear things up on Twitter."


    "Yeah. Ms. Spencer is also Rex''s sister. Having such a handsome brother must be amazing"


    "Not just that. Even someone as unworldly as Sharon spoke up for her. Ms. Spencer is really impressive"


    Before long, it was time for ss.


    This ss was taught by Ophelia, so everyone was eagerly watching the door.


    But instead of Ophelia, a man in a suit carrying a briefcase walked in, followed by Raphael and the department head, Zackary,


    "Mr. Glenn someone eximed in surprise because Raphael was rarely seen at school.


    Raphael, who usually only showed up at graduation ceremonies and school anniversaries, actually came in person. Something big must happen


    The three of them stopped at the ssroom door, and Zackary nced inside. "Lesly, pleasee outside."


    Everyone in the ss turned to look at Lesly.


    Lesly felt a chill run down her spine, her throat went dry, and she awkwardly stumbled as she walked, nervous.


    Someone curiously peeked from the back door.


    They could hear the usually friendly Raphael speaking with a serious tone.


    Zackary said, "Lesly, what''s wrong with you? You used to be part of the student council, yet you posted those things online, didn''t you? Do you know how much damage this has caused the school!" Lesly lowered her head, tears welling up in her eyes, unable to say a word in her defense


    "The school can''t help you now. You''ll have to manage this on your own. This incident has seriously damaged the school''s reputation, so they have decided to expel you," said Zackary.


    Hearing the word "expel, Lesly widened her eyes in disbelief, and her eyes began to well up with tears.


    "Mr. Glenn, Mr. Gross, I made a mistake. Please give me another chance. I can''t be expelled. My family''s not well-off, and


    my parents gave up everything to send me to Denex University. I''m begging you, Lesly pleaded.


    At this point, she couldn''t think about her pride anymore. The word "expel'' made her mind go nk.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    95%1


    "I was wrong. Mr. Glenn Please, I''m begging you for another chance, Lesly sobbed pitifully, tears and snot staining her face.


    Zackary nced at Raphael and then at thewyer. "If you knew this would happen, why did you do it in the first ce? What could you have been thinking? You''re an adult now, and you need to take responsibility for your actions." Lesly''s cries echoed down the hallway.


    Now everyone in the ss knew she was the one spreading rumers online.


    It was definitely because she felt embarrassed during ss before that she thought she could use public opinion to get Ophelia out


    She didn''t expect it to backfire on her, but she had iting.


    No one felt sorry for someone like that


    Ophelia was holding her paperwork and appeared at the ssroom door, witnessing the scene before her.


    All three people in the hallway turned their eyes to her at the same time.


    Zackary said. "Mr. Glenn, I think if Lesly genuinely apologizes to Ms. Spencer and makes a public apology, and if Ms. Spencer is willing to forgive her, perhaps we could consider a more lenient approach to this situation." When Lesly heard Zackary''s words, she quickly turned her head and walked up to Ophelia.


    Lesly apologized, "Ms. Spencer, I''m sorry, I was jealous of your looks and intelligence, so I spread rumors about you online. Fin really sorry. Please forgive me."


    At that moment, nothing else seemed to matter to her.


    She was even willing to kneel if necessary


    If her family found out that she was expelled from Denex University, they would definitely be furious with her.


    Raphael looked at Ophelia.


    Ophelia had a smile on her lips, her eyes meeting Raphael''s gaze


    Her clear eyes seemed to understand everything


    Ophelia thought to herself, Mr. Glenn is really a cunning old fox. He makes a big show and does this right at the ssroom door just as Ie to ss Forcing me to make my stance clear, huh?" Raphael was caught off guard by her gaze and started to feel a bit nervous.

 Jilted Bride 187

    Ophelia looked at thewyer, her voice calm and indifferent, saying, "I will respect any decision the school makes, but I''ll also reserve the right to take legal action. She learned this trick from Keh.


    Expelling Lesly was the best oue for her. After what happened, keeping her here was the biggest punishment for her. After speaking. Ophelia brushed past the others and entered the ssroom. The whole ssroom went silent instantly. Meanwhile, Lesly followed Zackary to the office to sort out the issue. During the lesson, everyone listened attentively, feeling it was unfortunate to miss even a single word from Ophelia.


    After ss, a few girls cautiously gathered near the lectern


    One girl called, "Ms. Spencer."


    Ophelia was packing her lecture materials when she instinctively brushed her fingers over the embroidery on Enzo''s notebook. She asked. "Do you have any questions?"


    Rex''s sister


    The girl replied, "No, Ms. Spencer. Are you Rex''s sister!"


    Another girl asked. "Ms. Spencer, are you familiar with those celebrities?"


    Ophelia looked up, her gaze scanning those girls. Everyone she looked at couldn''t help but feel nervous. They quickly said, We''re just asking out of curiosity. Then, they quickly scuttled away. Carly walked over and asked, "Ms. Spencer, are you going to the library today?"


    Ophelia replied, "Not todays I haven''t finished the books I borrowedst time. You''re in the student council, right?"


    Carly replied, "Yes.


    Ophelia asked politely, "Could you do me a favor?"


    Carly was, of course, willing and nodded eagerly.


    Ophelia asked, "Do you have the transcripts and records of the senior students from the architecture and management departments?"


    Carly replied, "Yes. But I can''t ess them by myself. I''ll need to get approval from the department heads."


    Ophelia said, "Alright, just tell them it''s for me. If they have any issues, they cane to me."


    In fact, Ophelia could ask Zackary for help, he would surely be more than willing. But thinking about his sly smile and the dirty things he had done in the past made her not want to talk to him at all, She remembered that when a girl Zackary had mistreated ended her life, it caused a huge stir at the school, but the administration hushed it up


    The punishment for Zackary was just a temporary suspension from work. The girl''s death couldn''t bring severe legal consequences for him.


    Ophelia suddenly thought of something. She nced at where Lesly sat, her delicate eyebrows slightly furrowed. Ayer of coldness was in her eyes. Carly asked, "Ms Spencer, is everything alright?"


    10:51


    Thu. Nov


    Ophelia replied, "Nothing just get me the transcripts as soon as you can." With that, she briskly left the ssroom and headed for the faculty building.


    As soon as she got to Zackary''s office door, her sharp ears picked up the sounds from inside.


    Zackary said, "If it weren''t for me helping you with this, you''d be fired by now. So, tell me, how will you repay me, Lesly?"


    Ophelia thought, He is ying the same dirty tricks as in the previous life. Even the words are nearly the same.


    Ophelia knocked hard on the door.


    Zackary''s wandering hand quickly pulled back. "Who''s there?" he asked, his voice irritated.


    Startled. Z


    Ophelia tried to open the door, only to find it locked. "Open the door," she said with a frosty tone.


    After a moment, Zackary walked over and opened the door. His face was beaming as he said, "Ms. Spencer, what brings you here? I was just having a word with Lesly." Ophelia cast aposed nce around the office.


    Lesly stood by the coffee table, her hands clenched tightly in front of her, her fingers nearly digging into her palms. Her head was lowered, almost shrinking into her shoulders.


    Ophelia said, Tm here for my student. Since the school isn''t nning to expel her, shouldn''t she be back in my ss?" She briefly nced at the door lock.


    Zackary wasn''t the slightest bit embarrassed. He replied, "Exactly! The principal and thewyer just left. As the head of the design department. I needed to chat with her. This situation has such a big impact. Don''t you agree?" "Have you done talking now?" Ophelia asked. She was disgusted by the sight of Zackary. She thought. Who knows how many girls have been victimized by him?


    Zackary replied. "Yes, we''ve finished talking. Lesly, go back and reflect on your actions, okay?"


    Lesly kept her head down, too scared to meet Zackary''s gaze.


    After leaving the office, Ophelia nced at Lesly and asked, "Did you get wronged?"


    Lesly quickly looked up, tears brimming in her eyes, and stared at Ophelia in surprise as if to ask, "How did you know?"


    Ophelia said, "If it happens again, remember to keep evidence. Aren''t you good at creating online discussions? Use that skill properly." Without realizing it, her tone became increasingly like a teacher''s.


    "Ms. Spencer, I''m sorry. Thank you for earlier, Lesly mumbled, biting her lip so hard it nearly bled. She indeed was sorry. Her biggest regret in life was spreading false rumors about Ophelia online. Ophelia gave Lesly a cold and distant nce, still holding no good feelings towards her. But since they were both girls, she couldn''t stand seeing Lesly suffer like this


    Carly was very efficient and quickly sent the organized grades and information to Ophelia.


    The job of recruiting people was left to Chloe. Ophelia was going to Waston with Keh for the weekend..


    Waston was the capital of Heloria,parable to Denex in economic development, and it was just a two-hour flight away.


    They arrived on Friday afternoon.


    Keh also had a ce in Waston. It was a spacious apartment over 8,000 square feet in the city center. Through therge floor-to-ceiling windows, one could see the city''s most iconic building. At night, the view of the city''s bustling lights was amazing. It was perfectly positioned for a great sight.


    "What''s the Heloria Trade Summit?" Ophelia asked curiously as he toured the ce. It was the first time she''d heard of it.


    Keh, seated on the gray sofa by the huge window, beckoned Ophelia.


    Without any words, Ophelia naturally walked over and sat down next to him


    Keh held her hands, his warm thumbs gently rubbing the ring on Ophelia''s ring finger.


    Keh exined. "The Heloria Trade Summit is amunication conference among Heloria businesses. It happens every three years, just before the election, with top political figures in attendance. The president of Heloria and his wife will be there too. It''s just another fancy business dinner. Only Keh could casually describe such a grand event as an ordinary dinner.


    Ophelia said, "So, can I understand it as a more public version of a private dinner for gathering support?"


    Keh raised an eyebrow and said, "My wife is really smart." While saying that, he lovingly ruffled Ophelia''s hair, his eyes.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    full of affection.


    "Mr. Sinir, Mr. West has arrived," Ray reported as Noah confidently walked into the room.


    Noah said, "Keh, why didn''t you tell me you wereing earlier? I should have prepared a warm reception. Hey, kid! You''re here, too? Joining your dad at the Heloria Trade Summit Ophelia was speechless. She thought, ''Can''t we just let this joke die already?


    Noah, sensing the intense gaze from Keh on the couch, quickly corrected himself. He said, "I meant husband, not dad, my mistake."


    He chuckled cheekily, which waspletely out of sync with his otherwise stern and serious demeanor.


    Keh didn''t bother arguing with Noah. He asked, "Did you go back to your family?"


    B


    0


    COMMENT


    G


    D 94%


    Noah sighed. "I went back, but it wasn''t qu

 Jilted Bride 188

    D 94%


    Chapter


    188


    Noah sighed. "I went back, but it wasn''t quite what I imagined."


    He plopped down on the sofa, arms spread wide, one leg crossed over the other. Even though his face looked like he was carrying the weight of the world, his typical lounging posture exlided a powerful presence. Ophelia thought. ''Aren''t the president and the First Lady of Heloria Noah''s parents?'' Now, she was even more curious about what Noah was like before he lost his senses.


    "So, what did you imagine it to be like?" Ophelia asked. She thought, ''Isn''t his mind supposed to be nk? How could he even imagine?


    "Isn''t a home supposed to be warm and cozy?" Noah asked as he looked down.


    Ophelia noticed that when it came to the West family, Noah wasnt as carefree as before.


    But Noah was asking the wrong person for this. Both Ophelia and Keh probably didn''t know what a normal family should be like.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Ophelia thought, ''It should be warm and cozy, perhaps After all, in her previous life, everyone else at Hastings Vi, except for her, was quite harmonious and warm.


    Noah said, "Oh, by the way, here''s the list of attendees for tomorrow." He pulled a triply-folded list from his inner jacket pocket and handed it over.


    Keh unfolded it and nced over the names.


    The attendees for tomorrow were from the government, military, and business sectors. In the government sector, the leading figures were the president of Heloria, Xander, and First Lady Elena. Suddenly, Ophelia''s eyes locked on a name in the center of the military section: Victor. She only discovered today that Keh''s father was in charge of a huge military base in Waston.


    Ophelia thought, ''No wonder Ivy once said that to take down Victor, the support of the Davidson family is absolutely necessary.


    No matter how dominant Keh was in the business world, shaking up the military sector was truly a tough task. Ophelia noticed on the guest list that every entry had two names, indicating each guest came with their family, except for Victor Sinir, whose column only had his name.


    Keh closed the list and tossed it onto the ck coffee table.


    At that moment, Mark appeared at the doorway and gently knocked on the door. He said, "Mr. Sinir, Ms. Spencer, your outfits for tomorrow are all ready"


    When he finished speaking, the door swung open, and six or seven people pushed in three rows of garment racks. Various outfits hung on the racks, with one row for men''s suits and two for women''s dresser


    Mark said, "Ms. Spencer, these dresses are all custom-made to fit your height and size.


    Ophelia said, "That is too many Aside from the family gathering at Carnegie Vi, she had never formally worn a gown.


    "Go pick one, Keh said as he let go of her hand.


    Ophelia walked over, her slender fingers gliding along the clothes rack from beginning to end. She said, "Eeny, meeny, miny, moe, whoever it is, I''ll pick that one!"


    00$94%


    THU, NOV 2


    Ophelia picked a burgundy dress from the rack, its style somewhat simr to the vintage green dress she once had. However, this dress was entirely backless, supported only by twlstraps tied around the neck. Meetings slightly narrowed eyes, Ophelia swallowed hard and said, "My mistake. I''ll pick another.


    She was about to hang the dress back when Keh stopped he. He said, "This one looks nice. Try it on, let me see."


    Hearing this, Ophelia thought, Does he really allow me to wear this? That''s not like him, the jealous type.


    "Okay," Ophelia said.


    Keh once said he needed to see every outfit before Ophelia wore it out.


    Ophelia grabbed the dress and randomly found a room to change. When she walked out in the red dress, Keh was the only one left in the room.


    The dazzling city lights reflected in Ophelia''s eyes through therge floor-to-ceiling windows. She stood there like a beautiful rose, yet her looks and demeanor were prickly, radiating a powerful aura


    Keh walked over and wrapped his arm around Ophelia''s slender waist. Her striking shoulder des and skin contrasted sharply with the dark red fabric.


    Keh''s Adam''s apple moved under his ck shirt cor as he leaned into Ophelia''s car and said softly, "I take back what I said earlier. This dress is just for me."


    Ophelia thought, I knew it


    Keh led Ophelia to the table by the window and pulled out a chair for her. They sat facing each other. A candlelit dinner was already set on the table.


    Ophelia noticed that Keh across from her seemed to be dressed a bit more formally than before.


    Beside them was the bustling city night view. Suddenly, countless drones flew by outside like stars in the night sky, hovering


    in mid-air.


    Is someone proposing out there?" Ophelia nced around and asked.


    Keh thought, Does she guess it?'' His smile froze, and his expression became serious. He stood up and instructed Mark outside the door, "Make those drones disappear." Ophelia said, "No way! Wouldn''t that ruin someone''s proposal? Let''s eat our dinner; it doesn''t matter.


    It does matter," Keh replied. His voice became colder, leaving no room for argument. He thought, "There is no way I vill use drones to propose like others always do!


    dark outside the door was taken aback. He thought, "What? Isn''t Mr. Sinir proposing? He quickly grabbed a walkie-talkie, structing the drone operators to lower the drones immediately


    lot witnessing a proposal, Ophelia felt a bit disappointed. Drone proposals would bemon five yearster, but at this me, it was the first time she saw one.


    fter dinner, with Keh''s suit jacket over her shoulders, Ophelia stood with Keh on the balcony, looking at the ight¨¹me skyline of this unfamiliar city.


    phelia felt that no matter where she was, with Keh around she felt like she belonged.


    phelia held a ss of red wine and drank it all in one go, her fur cheeks flushed with red. Her waist was tightly wrapped ound by Keh''s hand, making her feelpletely secure. Chapter 183


    Ophelia said. "Hey, Kermie,


    Keh replied. "What?"


    Ophelia said, "Let''s have a baby" She wanted to know what a real family should look like.


    Keh frowned. It wasn''t the first time Ophelia had brought it up.


    Pretty please!" Ophelia whined, using her tipsy state as an excuse, acting like a clingy little sprite.


    Keh was pulled forward by her,pletely at a loss with Ophelia. Before he could say anything, her lips touched his Yet, Keh''s self-control remained incredibly strong.


    n the end. Ophelia ran out of energy, her eyelids too heavy to stay open. She thought, ''Lost to Keh again.

 Jilted Bride 189

    The next day, in front of therge floor-to-ceiling window, Ophelia wore a fine ck nightgown with white stripes at the cor and cuts. She munched on a buttery croissant while turning on the TV. All the major domestic media outlets were racing to report this year''s Heloria Trade Summit entrance list.


    The Heloria Trade Summit, which had often been overlooked in previous years, was attracting major attention due to the attendance of many prominent figures this year.


    In no time, the words Heloria Trade Summit dominated the headlines of major media outlets.


    The LCD TV kept showing news about Keh. It said, "Keh Sinir, executive CEO of the Sinir Group. Under his leadership, Heloria''s economy had grown rapidly over the past two years." Ophelia thought. Not just that. She sat back at the open kitchen bar counter, heating a cup of milk for herself.


    Keh came out of the room wearing matching gray pajamas and walked behind Ophelia. He asked, "Are you upset!" Opheliapletely ignored him.


    Keh let out a softugh. His voice was deep and pleasing. He said, Tm sorry. Don''t be upset. I''ll try to be gentle next


    time


    Ophelia thought. Next time? Try? Forget about it. She kept silent.


    Keh said. "You know I have no resistance in front of you. His tone was highly pitiful, so much so that it reminded Ophelia of a puppy dog.


    Ophelia asked. "Are you ming me? She took a deep breath. The night before, she had drunk a little without feeling it, but waking up, she found it overwhelming. She even had bruises on her waist. Even so, she still didn''t achieve her goal. She thought, ''He is such a lousy guy!


    Kehsaid. "It''s not your fault, it''s mine. It''s all my fault. Does it still hurt? I''ve already asked someone to bring over some medicine.


    Before long, Mark came over with a bag of medicine. He asked, Mr. Sinir, are you alright?"


    His face was incredibly serious, eyes examining Keh, who opened the door, like an X-ray. He said, "Mr. Sinir, what happened? Why did you ask me to buy medicine for bruises and sprains?"


    He thought, ''Could it be that Mr. Sinir failed to propose and got punched? There''s no bruising on his face, so it must be internal injuries.


    Keh said, "You''re getting more and more controlling now" He grabbed the medicine from Mark and mmed the door shut, cutting off Mark''s wild imagination.


    Keh turned around, and when he faced Ophelia, his expression turned gentle. He said, "I''ll help you apply the medicine. I promise I won''t do anything else. Keh, true to his word, helped Ophelia with the medicine after breakfast.


    In the afternoon, they received an invitation to arrive early at the venue for the banquet


    As the top figure in business, Keh needed to meet with the president of Heloria and the military chiefs.


    Previously, Ophelia had only seen Xander on TV. She felt distan from him through the screen, but she would meet him in


    94%1


    10:52


    person today.


    She was quite nervous. But on the surface, she appeared as calm as if she had adopted Keh''sposed demeanor.


    Helora Trade Summit was held at the Perlin Marriott Estate, which often hosted international visitors. Its degree of luxurypletely changed the ordinary person''s perception,


    Stepping out of the cat. Ophelia wore a moonlight-colored Hepburn gown. The skirt was silver with subtle patterns, the upper part was ck, and a line of white pearls adorned the strapless neckline. It looked elegant and simple, with a touch of ss


    Beside Ophelia Keh wore a ck pinstripe suit, with a silver shirt under a matching vest, and a dark red tie at his neck. Standing together like that, they definitely looked like a couple.


    Ophelia naturally took Keh''s arm. They were guided to the drawing room on the second floor of the estate by an old butler at the entrance.


    The entire interior of the estate exuded luxury, with a kind of foreign country house style. Two rows of bodyguards stood at the drawing room entrance


    The old butler stopped at the door and reported, "Mr. West, Mr. Sinir has arrived."


    Inside the room, a bodyguard was positioned every few feet.


    The leader of the military group, Victor, nced at Keh and Ophelia before looking away after a few seconds. He acted


    if they were strangers, not even bothering to greet them.


    Keh did the same; his gaze never rested on Victor.


    Other than their appearances, nothing resembled a father-son rtionship between them.


    Xander spoke, "We''ve been waiting for you. His tone was free of me and instead sounded friendly.


    Xander looked simr to how he appeared on TV-somewhere in his forties, not yet fifty-with no signs of middle-age weight gain.


    He was lean and upright, and although his thick hair waspletely gray, the wrinkles on his face were hardly noticeable at a quick nce.


    His demeanor was much like that of Noah, exuding amanding presence without needing to show any anger.


    But Ophelia''s gaze was more focused on the woman beside Xander. It was astonishing to see that Elena, who seldom appeared in the media, was so radiant


    She had deep amber eyes, like Ronin and Adams, a high nose bridge, and delicate features. Her slightly curly long hair was draped to one side. She wore a dark red velvet gown, exuding cool elegance. Her face showed no traces of time, and she could easily be believed to be thirty.


    Elena looked up and locked eyes with Ophelia. She seemed equally captivated by her. Although she rarely smiled, she offered a slight smile as a greeting.


    Xander and Elena sat at the head of the table, with Victor, who handled military affairs, on the left, and Keh, who managed the economy, on the right. These two were crucial to the nation.


    This meeting aimed to discuss economic development and stalize the situation.


    94%a


    10:52


    As the night fell, luxury cars gathered from all directions at the front of Perlin Marriott Estate. A red carpet wasid out for hundreds of meters from the gate of the estate to the banquet hall.


    The security around the venue was enhanced with top-level defense systems. Although there had been prior media coverage, no media outlets were allowed inside the venue.


    A ck Rolls-Royce stopped at the entrance, and Phoebe, wearing a light-colored dress, got out from the right-hand door.


    Jonathan adjusted his suit and his cufflinks, then walked around the car to Phoebe''s side. He smiled, embodying a gentleman. He turned his head to look at Phoebe, even offering his arm for her to hold as they entered the venue. Phoebe gracefully lified her dress with one hand and linked the other with Jonathan''s arm as they slowly went up tBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    the stairs.


    She knew that outside, she was merely a stand-in for the daughter of the Davidson family. Once the real one was found, she would be the first to be discarded.


    In the grand andvish banquet hall, sses clinked amid the shallow pleasantries, far surpassing even the splendor of the previous cruise ship dinner Harris, Zayn, Henry, and other important figures, including the mayor of Denex, had already arrived.

 Jilted Bride 190

    In the upstairs lounge, besides Xander''s eloquent chatter, the others barely spoke. Victor asionally engaged in brief discussions with him about development and other subjects.


    Ophelia couldn''t quite follow the conversation, which exined why she was allowed to stay.


    Xander turned his head to Keh, hoping to discuss some economics.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Xander''s name matched his casual and free-spirited personality, his tone and demeanor were sharply different from his formal speeches.


    Perhaps it was the resemnce to Noah, but somehow Ophelia felt Xandler was very approachable.


    Elena on the other hand, was very reserved. Besides a slight smile earlier, she kept a neutral expression the entire time, lookingpletely detached.


    Keh, standing next to Xander, didn''t show any reaction after hearing his words. He kept his eyes down, gently stroking Ophelia''s ring with his thumb, examining cach joint on her finger with great care. Xander said. "Keh, sometimes you shouldn''t focus solely on making money. Come over to my residence more often. I need to seek advice from you young people on many matters


    "I almost forgot that you''re friends with my three children. It''s a shame, though; they''re all busy with their respective fields and rarelye home.


    As Xander finished speaking, Elena stood up and said, "Carry on your conversation. Excuse me."


    After Elena left. a barely noticeable hint of helplessness shed in Xander''s eyes, and the conversation shifted to other topics


    Ophelia leaned close to Keh''s ear and whispered, Tm going to step out for some fresh air, too. With Elena''s departure. Ophelia suddenly felt the room extremely oppressive. Keh-didn''t let go of Ophelia and stood up with her. He said, "Sorry, please excuse us. He ignored Victor and left the sitting room with Ophelia without a second nce,


    The room was left with just two middle-aged men, Victor and Xander, who were about the same age


    Victor pulled out a cigarette and handed it over.


    Xander chuckled and took Victor''s cigarette. He was about to light it but paused, set it aside, and stood up to leave.


    On the rooftop, Elena stood with pale fingers holding a woman cigarette.


    Xander walked over slowly, each step feeling incredibly heavy. Tm sorry," he said, standing behind Elena


    A gust of cold night wind carried away the three words.


    Elena didn''t turn around. Her shoulders shook slightly as if in scornfulughter. The cigarette between her fingers flickered. She asked, "Xander, have you forgotten how many children you have?" Xander replied, "No, I didn''t." He didn''t dare forget.


    Elena crushed the cigarette butt into her palm without feeling the burning pain.


    Xander''s jaw muscles trembled slightly. The wind on the rooftop was chilly, blowing through his now gray-streaked hair.


    Elena turned around and brushed past Xander. She said, "You cathe here to apologize becane you''re afraid Ell leave now right? I won''t. Xander. This is thest time Inside the banquet hall Ophelia held Keh''s arm


    Not far away, Henry saw Ophelia and Keh and went over to greet them.


    Ophelia didn''t see ra and curiously asked, "Did youe alone?"


    Henry replied, "Yeah, ra isn''t feeling well!


    Is she okay? Ophelia asked.


    Henry said.


    "It''s nothing serious, don''t worry. Did you and Keh just meet with Mr. West?"


    Yeah Ophelia said as she nodded.


    After exchanging a few pleasantries. Henry sensibly took his leave.


    Ophelia''s gaze was drawn to a graceful figure in the distance. She thought, Is that Phoebe She frowned slightly and turned owards Keh


    lefore Ophelia could ask her question, Keh said, "It''s easy for the Davidson family to buy an identity in Heloria, and it''s ve easier to get into Heloria Trade Summit."


    phelia asked. "How did you know what I was going to ask?" She had indeed intended to ask how could the Davidson family in the Heloria Trade Summit since they wasn''t from Yosk


    eh replied, "Because my focus is entirely on you. Even though Ophelia looked around, his gaze stayed on her, so he turally knew where her eyes were directed.


    oticing the attention, Phoebe turned her head and looked over Seeing Keh, her smile became even brighter.


    it Keh didn''t look at Phoebe, his eyes remained on Ophelia beside him.


    tocbe thought. Why wouldn''t he even give me a nce! Even after taking a bullet for the woman he loves, his attitude wards me stays the same. Why? Her heart was instantly filled with a strong sense of reluctance. thelia''s eyes wandered to the rows of dazzling desserts.


    ant one?" Keh, turning his head,


    helia replied. "Yeah." When the old butler brought them over earlier, her eyes were glued to those desserts. Looking at the amy yellow frosting, she could tell they must be delicious.


    h stayed with Ophelia, holding a tray and a stand. He followed her instructions as he picked out a few exquisite cakes. cy were so close, it made others envious.


    lier, everyone in the banquet hall was too intimidated by Keh''s aura toe up and greet him. Now, seeing h''s softened demeanor and gentle expression, many couldn''t help but try to get close to him. wever, Keh said harshly, "Scram, don''t bother my woman while she''s eating


    Hi, Nov 2

 Jilted Bride 191

    The person at the forefront who was yelled at turned green with embarrassment.


    Seeing this scene, everyone thought, Rumor has it that Keh doesn''t even respect the president, which seems true. He''s extremely arrogant. But there was nothing they could do about this With the past insident as a warning, no one else dared to approach Keh.


    In an inconspicuous corner of the banquet hall, a gaze like that of a venomous snake was fixed on Ophelia.


    Jonathan said, "So it''s she? Things are getting more interesting


    "What did you say, Jonathan Phoebe asked as she leaned in slightly.


    Jonathan put down his ss and stood up. With a cunning smile, he said. "This time, I''ll go with your idea" He lifted his eyelids, giving Phoebe a cursory nce. Then, he left.


    Jonathan''s figure vanished from the banquet hall, leaving Phoebe in disbelief, thinking she misunderstood. She thought, Does Jonathan really agree with my n?


    Phoebe s gaze fell on Ophelia and Keh in the distance.


    Ophelia was enjoying some dessert, a pink strawberry mousse that matched the color of her soft lips.


    Keh sat beside Ophelia. watching, his eyes almost overflowing with tenderness.


    Within a ten-meter radius, not even a fly dared to approach them.


    "Is it good" Keh asked as he used his well-defined thumb to wipe the cream off the corner of Ophelia''s lips gently.


    Oph replied, "Yeah. Keh, can you get me another macaron, the one with red bean filling? And also that mango


    mousseBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She sat on the spacious sofa, feeling out o


    NOV


    Ophelia took the opportunity to head towards the restroom in the banquet hall.


    Due to the presence of Xander and Elena, almost everyone had gathered in the banquet hall at that moment. The restroom was empty, not a single person in sight. Ophelia pushed open the stall door, and she suddenly stopped before she could reach the sink. Behind her, something cold and hard silently pressed against her waist. "Ms. Spencer, my boss wants to see you, a low, unfamiliar woman''s voice called out from behind her.


    Without giving the woman behind her a chance to react, Ophelia quickly turned around, grabbed the woman''s wrist holding the gun, and used her momentum to give the woman a sharp ellow strike. The gun ttered to the floor.


    The woman, also trained, kicked the gun away and engaged in hand-to-handbat with Ophelia.


    Even though Ophelia struck with uracy, aiming for weak points, the woman stubbornly took each blow with her body. These moves happened in just a few seconds.


    Ophelia resized something, she thought, Wait! Her techniques are so entangling, almost like... Suddenly, she felt unsteady and stepped back a couple of steps. The woman in front of her started to blur.


    The woman said. "I know you are quite skilled, so I used an invisible gas for you specifically. Forcing you to act was to make you mhale it quickly. You must feel weak now. It''s truly impressive you''vested this long At the same time, she wiped the blood from her mouth. She thought. I never imagined she would be so skilled; I really underestimated her

 Jilted Bride 192

    Chapter 192 93%1


    §±


    Ophelia was barely hanging on; her heart was racing like it might explode. The veins on her forehead were throbbing, and she didn''t even have the strength to make a fist


    She opened her mouth, but her throat was so tight that she couldn''t make any sound.


    The woman, clutching her chest, slowly moved closer. She sail, Please, Ms. Spencer"


    In the banquet hall, Xander formally introduced Noah as the next president to everyone.


    One remarked, "As expected, Mr. West''s son is truly exceptional


    Another person chimed in. "He definitely lives up to being Mr. West''s son."


    Praises were everywhere, with some people trying to curry favor while others were envious.


    Noah was dressed in a ck suit with perfect proportions; when he kept his mouth closed, his natural charisma and strong presence were undeniable


    But his frequent eye blinking, noticeable only to Keh, showed hisck of confidence. Noah wished it would all end soon.


    Luckily, Xander only let Noah be in the spotlight without giving him a chance to speak; otherwise, Noah might have embarrassed himself.


    Keh nced at his watch and frowned, noticing there wasn''emuch traffic near the restrooms. He thought, ''Why hasn''t Opheliae out yet? He turned and headed to the restroom.


    Phoebe asked, "Keh, where are you headed? What about Ophelia?" She stepped in Keh''s path and nced behind him


    Keh gave Phoebe a cold nce, examining her for a couple of seconds. He pressed his tongue against his mrs, then ignored her and strode towards the restrooms. Keh shouted, "Are you inside. Ophelia?"


    The bathroom was silent, with no response.


    Keh didn''t care if anyone was inside; he opened each door to check. He called, "Elia.."


    The entire bathroom emply.


    Keh clenched his bark teeth, his jaw muscles twitching slightly, with a hidden fury in his eyes. He turned around and headed back to the ballroom


    Everyone watched as an enraged Keh grabbed Phoebe by the neck.


    Keh asked, "Phoebe, where''s Ophelia? Didn''t I warn you? How dared you mess with my people? Have you considered the consequences?"


    Phoebe said, "Keh, w-what are you talking about? 1-1 don''t understand." She instinctively tightened her grip on Keh''s arm, her pale face quickly turning redR¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    As her breath became weaker, her grip loosened. For a moment she believed Keh, who was out of mind, might strangle ber. She called, "Keh..."


    93%


    Keh suddenly let go of Phoebe.


    Feeling dizzy, Phoebe twisted her ankle and fell onto the table beside her, pulling the tablecloth with her. sses and desserts ttered to the floor along with the tablecloth. The noise was so loud it attracted the attention of the entire hallmom.


    Keh took out a gray handkerchief and wiped his hands that had touched Phoebe.


    ware


    Seeing this, Phoebe looked hurt, her chest aching badly. With jears in her eyes, she asked, "Cough, cough... Keh, why are you treating me like this?"


    Keh shot Phoebe a cold nce, his face full of disdain. He threw the handkerchief he used onto the floor and stepped on it with his polished ck leather shoe. Phoebe said. "Keh. I love you. But it doesn''t mean you can trample all over my feelings like this?"


    The entire hall was so quiet one could hear a pin drop. Keh reputation was known to some and witnessed by others, leaving no one brave enough to step forward. Keh said, "Spare me the disgust. His voice was icy cold as he instructed the bodyguard, "Take her back and ask the Davidson family how much her life is worth." At the mention of the Davidson family, Xander nced at Noah beside him. Seeing that Noah had no reaction, Xander slowly stepped forward.


    As the president, it was essential for Xander to find out what was happening in situations like this. After all, when Keh, got angry, the entire Heloria would feel the tremor. Xander called. "Keh"


    Keh ignored Xander and looked toward Victor on the second floor. He let out a cold chuckle and said. The military defense system isn''t that impressive. He was mocking Victor. Xander''s face darkened, wondering what this meant. He asked, What''s happened, Keh? Let''s go upstairs to talk."


    "No need Keh said as he turned and left the banquet hall.


    The bodyguards behind him held Phoebe by her arms.


    Phoebe asked, "Keh, do you really have to treat me like this?


    Just as they left the banquet hall and before going down the stairs, Ray and Eric hurried to stand in front of Keh, taking two steps at a time.


    Ray nced at the banquet hall, not understanding what was happening. He didn''t see Ophelia, but he noticed the bodyguards dragging Phoebe out.


    Feeling a bad premonition, he lowered his voice and said, "Mr. Sinir, the cargo at Nirvana Harbor was intercepted"


    Keh''s eyes were cold and unfathomably deep. He thought, Good. I knew who did it. He instructed, "Find Jonathan''s Jocation


    Hearing Jonathan''s name, Ray''s heart skipped a beat, and his expression showed slight difort. He said. "Mr. Sinir, actually, Mrs. Sinir had a brief encounter with Mr. Davidson before


    Keh narrowed his eyes. He immediately turned his gaze to Ray, his expression fierce as if he was ready to eat someone alive. He asked, "Why didn''t you mention this earlier?"


    23


    Ray swallowed and lowered his head.


    Eric said. "Elia isn''t a criminal, and you''re not her father, so why should Ray report everything about Elia to you? You never seem to believe that Elia can take care of herself. Didn''t she do dine all those years without you? Eric''s eyes were full of confusion, his hands in his pockets, showing no fear of Keh.


    Ray frowned as he noticed Keh''s increasingly grim expressip. He led pulled Eric aside and said, "Shut up."


    Then he said to Keh. "Mr. Sinir, I''ll take the punishment willingly. Eric doesn''t know any better, please don''t take it


    out on him.


    "Why should there be punishment for something so trivial? Erie said, sounding like a child who didn''t understand.


    "Are you out of your mind? Ray asked as his eyes shed a warning.


    Eric nced disdainfully at Ray, but he had no intention of stopping. He continued, "Someone kidnapped Elia, and it''s no coincidence that a shipment was intercepted at Nirvana Harbor


    "It''s an attempt to throw you into chaos. If you rush to rescue Elia now, you are just falling into their trap. You must have faith in Elia


    "She''s the type of person who hates causing trouble for others and wouldn''t want to be your weak spot. Thatst part was directed at Keh


    On the other side, inside a vintage mansion hidden among tall green nts, Ophelia was led by a woman into a dimly lit study


    The tone of the study was incredibly oppressive, and a man was sitting on an armchair. He was dressed in a gray suit, with the cor of his ck shirt set with a blue gem that gleamed even in the low light. He held a ck cat in his arms. And there was a distinctive dimple on his slightly raised chin.


    The woman said, "Mr. Davidson, the person has been brought in


    Ophelia watched the figure from a distance. She thought, Mr. Davidson? He is the second son of the Davidson family, Jonathan


    Ophelia couldn''t speak now; her arms and legs felt as limp as jelly. Seeing Jonathan sent a wave of unease through her heart. She wondered, "Why did he bring her here!

 Jilted Bride 193

    COMMENT


    ¦°


    Jonathan said, "We meet again, Ms. Spencer."


    Jonathan tilted his head, his icy blue eyes gazing at Ophelia with an almost amused expression. His eyes were like a snake flicking its tongue at her, sending chills down her spine. Ophelia struggled to swallow, her lips parted but she couldn''t say a word. Her delicate eyebrows knitted together slightly.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Fiona, Jonathan called.


    Ophelia finally realized the woman who brought her here was named Fiona


    Fiona took a small bottle from her waist and sprayed it at Ophelia''s face.


    A minty scent drifted past Ophelia''s nose, and in just a few seconds, the tightness in her throat vanished.


    "Nice to see you again, Mr. Davidson, Ophelia said. Her voice was hoarse, but each word was strong, with a calm andposed demeanor.


    Jonathan''s eyes were full of interest, and he was surprised that her first words didn''t question why he had captured her. Jonathan said, "Have a seat."


    Ophelia''s legs slowly regained feeling, allowing her to walk over but by bit on her own. She sat on the sofa before Jonathan, still in her party dress


    The ck cat in Jonathan''s arms arched its hack, turned its head and fixed its sapphire eyes on Ophelia, as if she had. intruded into its territory. The cat meowed. "Rude," Jonathan said icily.


    The ck cat instantly turned back, continued to curl up on Jonathan''sp, and closed its eyes.


    Ophelia said, "Even though the Davidson family isn''t aristocratic, it is still the leading family in Yosk''s underworld with principles. Wouldn''t the Davidsons disdain such a basic method as kidnapping Ophelia spoke each word, her voice steady, with her clear eyes covered by ayer of frost, looking at Jonathan with indifference and distance. She wasn''t like this when she was around Keh "Want some dessert?" Jonathan asked tentatively.


    Ophelia replied, "No, thanks. Eating too much gives me a toothache. She couldn''t quite understand Jonathan. She asked, "Did you invite me to teach me a lesson on Phoebe''s behalf?" Jonathan''s eyebro

 Jilted Bride 194

    The ne soared into the sky. Inside the luxurious private jet, the man his hat and let out a deep sigh of relief. His


    previously rigid, upright posture instantly rxed.


    I have been acting the entire night, Noah thought as he ran his fingers through his hair to tidy it up.


    After Noah opened hisptop on the desk, the bodyguard beside him reminded, "Mr. West, Mr. Sinir said if you can''t handle the matter properly, go back to Denes and find Mrs. Sinir''s friend for help as soon as possible." Noah replied. "Who says I can''t? I can do it. He thought, Tam a grown man, I can''t always rely on a woman for help. He scratched his head, looking out of ce in his outfit.


    A face shed in his mind, one that seemed to ovep with a shadow in his memories. But whenever he tried to think hard about it, his head hurt, and his heart felt uneasy. So he simply stopped thinking about it. Meanwhile, Heloria Trade Summit wrapped up early.


    In the Perlin Marriott Estate, Phoebe was curled up on the cold floor, her face ashen. If she''d had any illusions about. Keh before, they were shattered now.


    She thought, He never likes me, not even once. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have treated me like this. But the more certain she became of this, the more her heart ached. Her chest was filled with bitterness and jealousy. Ray said, "Ms. Davidson, we don''t want to use force. Just tell us where Jonathan is in the city"


    "1. I don''t know, Phoebe replied. Her in dress was covered in dirt. There were still marks on her arm from where the medication had been injected.


    Ray said. "Such a tough bone." He squatted down and pressed the plunger. A few drops of liquid dripped from the cold metal


    needle.


    Phoebe kept shaking her head, instinctively pulling back. Even though she used all her strength, she only managed to move back a few centimeters.


    "No...no.. she cried as she gripped her arm tightly, resisting as hard as she could. But she was too weak to fight back and was quickly overpowered.


    The needle went through Phoebe''s pale, almost transparent skin, and the cold liquid was injected into her body.


    Phoebe shouted. Her nails dug into the concrete floor, dirt ingrained under her manicured nails. Pain pierced through every pore of her body. It felt like she was being bitten by countless leeches.


    She thought, I have to survive and see Ophelia suffer a fate worse than death with my own eyes. I will kill Ophelia and make


    her vanish forever!


    Phoebe forced herself to take a breath and looked at those who were torturing her. She thought, I can take it, I can hold it in Just thinking that Ophelia was also enduring the same pain made it bearable for her. Phoelie was well aware of Jonathan''s methods; anyone who fell into his hands wouldn''t escape without injury. She was certain that Ophelia was surely suffering more than she was now,


    She was determined not to reveal Jonathan''s whereabouts to Keh. She wanted Ophelia to endure endless torment, be humiliated, and, ideally, be blown to bits, leaving no remains to bury.


    1. BG.


    In a vintage manor, the long solid wood dining table wasden with various dishes and desserts.


    Ophelia sat on one side, and opposite her was Jonathan, watching her with great interest


    Fiona, whom Ophelia had beaten so badly before, stood on the side holding her chest. She thought. The ce where she kicked still hurt. If I hadn''t trained, she might have broken my ribs...


    Why is Mr. Davidson treating her so well With his usual methods, shouldn''t he have at least broken a few of her fingers? And yet, he''s treating her to good food and drink? Is it just because of her pretty face! Seeing the disgusted look on Fiona''s face. Ophelia nced at the table full of food, unconcerned.


    Jonathan said. "Go ahead and eat. I''m not ruthless enough to poison you"


    Ophelia wasn''t really worried about being poisoned. Even if Jonathan put something unsavory in it, it would be enough to


    make her ufortable.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Twice already, she had been knocked out by those mysterious gases. Who knew what else could happen!


    Still not eating I will make you willingly fall in love with me. I won''t use any deceitful methods," Jonathan said, though he couldn''t believe he was saying such things.


    Ophelia was indeed a bit hungry now. She needed to eat well to have the strength to run awayter. At least she now had a rough idea of the vi''syout, but she wasn''t quite sure where the dense forest led. ophelia said. "You should eat too. Don''t just stare at


    Not even my partner yet, and you''re already concerned about me?" Jonathan asked. His icy blue eyes lit up. He smiled, and the dimples in his chin slightly showed.


    Ophelia thought. Concerned about you? What a joke. The creepy stare makes me lose my appetite and feel sick.


    Tenjoy watching you." Jonathan said. He sat there, his eyes unblinking.


    Ophelia thought. Fine, look all you want. It''s not like it harm me.


    Jonathan said. "Besides my sister, I haven''t really watched a woman eat before."


    Ophelia asked, "Your sister?" She thought, Is Phoebe his sister? She remembered Chloe mentioning that Jonathan only had one sibling. Phoebe.


    She thought, But Phoebe is about her age, how could she be his sister? Moreover, from his tone, he seems to be close with the sister he talks about.


    Previously, when I mentioned Phoebe, he looked disgusted and said Phoebe was like a dog. So, it seems safe to assume the sister he mentioned isnt Phoebe." Jonathan said, "Eat your food. You''re asking too many questions


    Ophelia thought. What did I ask about? She lowered her head, ignoring Jonathan on the other side of the table.


    She cautiously took a bite. When she realized it was fine, she continued eating without worry. After the meal, she leaned back in the chair like a boss


    Now, she needed to figure out where these paths in the dense forest led, to n her escape.


    Ophelia said, "I overate. I''m going for a walk in the garden"


    "Go ahead. But... Jonathan said casually, "Don''t try to escape from here. I don''t want you to get blown to pieces"


    10:53 Thu, Nov 21 GG.


    92%1


    As soon as he finished speaking, a massive explosion echoed from the nearby woods, sending dirt flying six feet high.


    Ophelia''s heart skipped a beat thinking. "No wonder he is so confident in letting me go. Is he insane? ntingndmines in his yard? What if he identally steps on one and gets blown to bits? Ophelia said, "Forget it. Eating makes me sleepy and toozy to move. She didn''t dare go out now; she needed to stay alive to see Keh again and not end up as minced meat. Then, she asked, "Where do I sleep?"


    "In my room," Jonathan said, his words hitting Ophelia like a hammer.


    Ophelia replied. "Alright," Under Jonathan''s watchful gaze. Ophelia slowly walked upstairs, her mind racing.


    She thought, ''Something''s off. Maybe Jonathan nts those mines just to scare me. Or there must be other exits, maybe even from his room.


    "First on the right, Jonathan directed her from behind.


    They entered the room one after the other.


    The room door mmed shut.


    The sound of ck leather shoes on the dark wooden floor came from behind Ophelia, getting closer with each step. A shadow loomed over her head.

 Jilted Bride 195

    At a private airport in Denex, a ne slowlynded.


    Noah straightened his tie and pushed his hair back quickly. He put on his hat and stood up. His face was serious without any emotion


    The bodyguard who used to joke with Noah didn''t dare speak now. He silently followed behind Noah as they got off the ne.


    A line of SUVS was already waiting for them.


    The bodyguard opened the back door of the car in the middle.


    Noah paused as he got into the car. He said, "You... you... why are you here?"


    Chloe softly exhaled. Seeing Noah get off the ne a moment ago made her heart skip a beat, but after hearing him speak, she quickly hid the emotion in her eyes.


    She said. "Mr. Sinir said you spent two hours on the ne and found nothing, so he''s counting on you."


    "Why not count on me? I''m capable, Noah retorted. He thought No any man would say himself not capable.''


    Chloe frowned and said, "Stop babbling. Don''t you still have to go to Nirvana Harbor?"


    Noah replied. "Yes. He quickly got into the car, As soon as he got in, Chloe took away hisptop.


    Chloe asked, "Who are the people behind Elia''s kidnapping this time?" She had rushed over as soon as she got the call, not having had time to get the full details. Noah replied, "The Davidson family, Jonathan."


    Chloe stopped typing suddenly, hidden emotions flickering in her eyes. She said, "The Davidson family? Are you sure? How could the Davidsons do such a thing?"


    Noah replied, "You talk like you really know the Davidson family. The Davidsons are the top dogs in Yosk''s underworld. There''s nothing they wouldn''t do, like buying and selling weapons."


    Chloe was at a loss for words. Her eyes lowered as she let out a bitterugh. She asked. "Is that what you think too?"


    "What? What did you say?" Noah asked as he leaned over towards Chloe.


    Chloe replied, "Nothing. She turned her head, meeting Noah''s gaze from under the brim of his cap.


    They looked at each other. In what felt like an eternity, only a few seconds passed. It was as if, in each other''s eyes, they found something they had been searching for all along


    Noah felt his throat tighten as his eyes focused on Chloe''s red lips. Scenes from some TV shows that weren''t exactly suitable for all ages suddenly flooded his mind. His Adam''s apple moved twice above his burgundy tie.


    He thought, "What was I just thinking? Have I watched those kinds of shows before? How could I imagine the characters as myself and Chloe? He quickly blinked and rubbed his chest to ease the pressure.


    Chloe took a deep breath and looked away. She pressed her thumbnail against her clenched forefinger to bring herself back to reality.


    She thought, ''He has no meory; he doesn''t even recognize me. If he knew who I am, he''d probably make the same choice.


    he did before.


    Even if he wouldn''t, once everything came back to him, he still wouldn''t forgive me. We are from different worlds. It''s better this way. It''s better if he doesn''t remember anything"Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    The atmosphere inside the car was incredibly tense. Noah couldn''t quite figure out what was happening with himself.


    He turned his head slightly, staring intently at Chine. He said, "You''re talking about me, but didn''t find anything either, right"


    Chloe ignored him, her delicate eyebrows furrowing unconsciously. Her fingers hovered over the keyboard and then retracted. She repeated the action a few times. Suddenly, Noah took theptop from herp. Noah said. "Let me take care of it. You seem exhausted from looking after Wyatt. Why don''t I drop you off at the next intersection so you can get some rest? This is not something you need to handle anyway Socio


    Chloe turned her head. She looked at Noah, who looked remarkably simr to Wyatt. It felt like her chest was stuffed with


    She thought that if Jonathan was really the person who kidnapped Ophelia, there was no need to investigate further. She constructed the ce where the Davidson family settled in Waston


    She hadn''t been with the Davidson family for a few years, and she had no clue why they were now using methods like threats and kidnapping-


    Chloe said. "Let me out at the next corner. Ophelia might be near Mount Aetherius."


    Noah said. "What? Did you find out that quickly?"


    He didn''t want to a


    to admit he was in over his head, but he was. He was impressed with Chloe.


    In the dungeon, a bucket of cold water was thrown onto Phoebe who was lying on the ground.


    Phoebe shivered violently, drenched to the skin. When she opened her eyes, she saw a pair of ck leather shoes. Her eyes slowly moved up. She saw Keh looking down at her from on high. She thought, ''He finallyes in person.


    Phoebe said, "Keh, I don''t know. Keh, my shoulder hurts so much. Why won''t you believe me? I love you. How could I ever hurt your woman?


    "Keh, even if you kill me today, I can''t lie about something I don''t know. I don''t know


    She mumbled off and on, her voice pitiful and helpless. Her hair was dripping wet, her face so pale it had a sickly beauty. But inside, she thought, By now, Jonathan has probably made Ophelia feel like she''s living in a nightmare. As long as Ophelia dies, Keh will me the Davidson family, and there will be a never-ending feud between them.


    Then I will achieve two goals at once. As long as I get out alive, everything from Keh and the Davidson family will belong to me!


    Phoebe knew Keh could be tender-hearted; otherwise, he would have had her killed already instead of just giving her two doses of the drug.


    "Click. Click In the empty dungeon, the sound of a bullet being loaded echoed clearly.


    hu, Nov 21


    BK92%


    Keh crouched down and pressed the cold gun muzzle again Phoebe''s forehead. He said, "Betting I''ll be lenient? Phoebe, do you think I haven''t seen through all the little tricks you''ve tried to y on me since childhood?" Phoebe''s eyes suddenly narrowed, and her throat tightened so much that she couldn''t speak.


    At that time, a person came to report, "Mr. Sinir, Mr. West has sent the location over


    In the vintage brown-toned room, a tall shadow loomed over Ophelia,pletely covering her.


    Ophelia asked. "Didn''t you say that you would make me fall in love with you willingly! Are you nning to force me instead! Her voice was cold and distant like keeping others at arm''s length.


    Jonathan''s hand, which was about to touch Ophelia''s shoulder, stopped midway. It grasped at nothing and then dropped


    down


    Jonathan sat on the coffee-colored sofa. legs crossed, watching Ophelia with interest. He said, "TI watch you sleep."


    Ophelia thought, Psychol She nced towards the bathroom and said, "I''m going to take a shower. Without waiting for Jonathan''s response, she quickly ran into the bathroom.


    Soon, the sound of water running could be heard from inside.


    Ophelia turned on the shower and then the faucet at the sink. Taking advantage of the flushing toilet sound, she picked up the scented candle holder by the bathtub and smashed it hard against the mirror.. The mirror


    shattered


    Ophelia picked up the sharpest shard. She cut a towel into strips and wrapped one end of the shard with them. Now, she had a sharp defensive dagger that felt perfect in her hand. A dozen minutester, she came out of the bathroom. Jonathan was still sitting on the sofa, his ice-blue eyes fixed intently on Ophelia.

 Jilted Bride 196

    Ophelia draped her long hair over one shoulder. She used a towel to dry her wet hair as she asked, "Do you have a hair diver


    "No." Jonathan replied. His pupils darkened with intrigue shimmering in his eyes.


    In this homely state, Ophelia shed her fierce exterior, making her naturally pure features even more endearing.


    Jonathan thought. Turns out she has this side too. She is not just wild little kitten but could seamlessly turn into an adorably sweet one.


    "No hair dryer at all?" Ophelia remarked with a haughty yet yful disdain. Even though it should have been an off-putting expression, it looked yful on her face, almost endearing.


    Jonathan stood up. He slowly walked over to Ophe and leaned in slightly. He teased a damp strand of her hair. "I could blow it dry for you with my mouth," He said with apletely straight face.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Ophelia was speechless. She thought, ''How am I supposed to respond to that? Should I praise his lung capacity?


    Jonathan said, "I don''t want to pressure you, but there are many ways to make you fall for me willingly. Want to give it a


    shot


    His gaze, cold like a snake''s, fixed on Ophelia, making her skin crawl with an unsettling sensation as if covered in something sticky and repulsive


    Jonathan''s face gradually moved closer.


    Suddenly. Ophelia paused her hair-drying motion. A fierce glint shed in her eyes. She tossed the towel forward, and the dagger in her hand gleamed with a cold light.


    Jonathan reacted swiftly, dodging backward. The de that was meant to cut his throat just lightly grazed the skin of his neck. It left a thin line of blood.


    Blood dapped down Jonathan''s Adam''s apple, the cold feeling tracing over his heart. He reached up to touch the cut on his neck. His fingers were sticky with bright red blood. In disbelief, he looked up at Ophelia. Jonathan asked, "I treated you sincerely, yet you wanted to kill me?" He seethed, anger spreading through his clenched teeth.


    "What else should I do?" Ophelia replied. Her face was nk. Her eyes were indifferent, with a hint of disappointment at his survival visible in her gaze.


    Jonathan narrowed his eyes, a feeling of unprecedented defeat shing across his face. "Were you deceiving me the whole time?" he asked with a trembling voice, full of spite.


    Ophelia furrowed her brows, thinking how his tone made it sound like she had wronged him. She thought, "He seems obsessed with love, probably indulged too much in fantasy


    She couldn''t be bothered with his nonsense. She reversed her grip on the "dagger. In a swift motion, she charged forward. aiming directly at Jonathan.


    Jonathan swiftly dodged her move, but as he was reaching inside his coat for his gun, he suddenly froze.


    While he was hesitating, Ophelia kicked him in the chest without mercy.


    Jonathan was kicked back two steps, almost falling onto the sofa Ophelia took the opportunity to grab the gun fro

 Jilted Bride 197

    Ophelia hid by the door to the study, clearly hearing everything Jonathan said.


    After speaking, Jonathan walked over to a wall and gently turned the antler mounted on it. With a "Click, "the wall immediately indented and slowly opened like two doors.


    Seeing this, Ophelia thought, I guessed it correctly; there is a closer passage in the study


    When she noticed the antler ornament on the desk carlier, which was exactly like the one on the wall, she suspected there might be a hidden door.


    Instead of opening the door herself and risking setting off some mechanism that would alert anyone, she found it was better. to let Jonathan open it himself. Knowing Jonathan''s character, she knew Jonathan would definitely want to personally capture her.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Suddenly, the ck cat leisurely strolled to her feet, tilting its head as it looked at her from behind the door panel.


    Ophelia lowered her eyes, meeting the ck cat''s gaze. When she looked up again, Jonathan had already closed the hidden door and was striding towards her. The hidden door was slowly closing


    Ophelia frowned and quickly drew a gun from behind her waist. With two "bang" sounds, the entire room was instantly plunged into darkness. Guided by her memory, she swiftly dashed into the secret door before it closed. Thanks, Mr. Davidson, Ophelia said.


    In the darkness, Jonathan looked toward the source of the voice Without any warning, a huge explosion erupted behind him, destroying the study


    In the re of the explosion, Jonathan watched helplessly as Ophelia disappeared through the secret door. His eyes turned bright red with anger, and he punched the ground.


    He cursed, "Damn it... cough, cough... Thick smoke made him cough a couple of times. ss shards that hade from nowhere earlier had cut his face, leaving him looking utterly messy.


    The manor was inplete chaos, with smoke and haze filling the air. When suddenly, a me shot up.


    The bodyguards on duty rushed to put out the fire, making sure the mes didn''t reach the arsenal.


    At that moment, several helicopters hovered above the manor, their rotor noise almost bursting eardrums.


    When Keh and his team arrived, they could hear explosions from afar, and thick smoke was spiraling into the night sky.


    Barely conscious, Phoebe''s pupils constricted at the sound of the explosion, a hint of madness showing in her eyes. She knew thatndmines were buried around the area, and a small misstep could result in being blown up. She thought, ''Does Ophelia set off the minefield while trying to get away? If so, she''s probably blown to pieces. This thought made all of Phoche''s pain disappear instantly.


    The helicopter approached and hovered a few meters above the ground. Keh jumped down andnded smoothly, his ck trench coat billowing around him.


    The bodyguards who had been fighting the fire immediately pointed their guns at Keh after seeing this.


    1/a.


    10:53 Thu, Nov 21 B G


    0092%


    Keh''s team quickly raised their rifles, too, creating a standoff between the two groups.


    Everyone in the manor was i


    Jonathan lifted his eyelids, lus ice-blue eyes filled with defiance.


    He said to Keh. "She''s only using you. I never expected the boss of the Sinir Group and the leader of the Death Guild to be used sopletely, making such a fuss over a young girl who''s just taking advantage of you." Jonathan looked at the helicopters with a mocking smile.


    Phoebe couldn''t believe what she heard. She thought, ''How could Jonathan be interested in Ophelia? Ophelia wasn''t tortured to death. In fact, the destruction of this estate was her doing.


    Why didn''t Jonathan kill her? Why wasn''t she blown to pieces? How could it be? Impossible!


    Phoebe''s blood felt frozen; her eyes went red, and her entire body trembled. She thought, I endured so much suffering in the dungeon, only to be misunderstood by Jonathan. What is so special about Ophelia that made these two men eager to fight over her? Why?"


    Keh sneered. "You almost got killed by my woman, and you''re still fooling yourself. If the recording says true, you wouldn''t be holding a recording now, but Ophelia instead."


    His words hit the target. His tone was dripping with arrogance. He looked at Jonathan as if he were a clown. Jonathan remarked inside. His cocky demeanor really makes me want to punch him!''

 Jilted Bride 198

    Meanwhile, in the pitch-ck passage, with no lights, Opheliail to cling to the wall and move forward. "Maybe there were lights before, but she might have blown up the circuit.


    Luckily, Ophelia had a lighter with her. She licked it on asionally, using the weak glow to glimpse her surroundings while relying on one hand to feel her way.


    The passage was primitive, simply made of marble.


    At the next turn, a dim light appeared ahead. With that light, he pace quickened. Suddenly, she stopped as two tall ck figures blocked the exit light.


    One person said. "Ms. Spencer, we''ve been expecting you."


    Ophelia recognized them as Jonathan''s bodyguards. Just as she reached for her waist, two gun barrels were immediately pointed at her.


    One bodyguard said. "Ms. Spencer, I advise you not to act rashly. Although Mr. Davidson told us not to harm you, these bullets aren''t so mindful. You''ve injured so many of our people You should pay the price The sharp sound of bullets being chambered echoed clearly and loudly through the passage.


    Ophelia pressed her lips together. With a harmless smile, her dark eyes steadily fixed on the two. The light from outside nted across her cheek, half of her face visible, the other half hidden in shadow. Her calm and confident presence sent a shiver down the two men''s spines.


    The bodyguard thought, ''Does she still have some tricks up her sleeve: We can''t underestimate her. As they watched Ophelia warily, a youthful voice with a carefreeugh echoed behind them, saying, "Two losers.


    The two bodyguards froze instantly. Just as they turned their heads. Ophelia kicked off the side of the marble wall, propelling herself into the air. She spread her legs apart and delivered a swift kick to the neck of each opponent. With a thud, both bodyguards fell to the sides. Taking advantage of the opening. Ophelia darted through the gap between them and raced down the corridor.


    "What are you doing here?" Ophelia asked, ncing toward the passage exit..


    Eric stood there with his hands casually in his pockets. He leisurely chewed bubblegum and blew a big bubble.


    He said, "I''m here to back you up. With that, he tapped his toe on the ground and charged into the passage, knife ready to


    strike,


    The two bodyguards who had just managed to get up were caught off guard. Blood poured from their necks as they copsed lifelessly to the ground.


    ''Done already?" a rough voice called from above, revealing a pair of ck, thick-soled leather boots.


    Ophelia thought, ''Ray has arrived too. It should be Keh who sent them to save me!


    Eric sheathed his dagger and slipped it into his pocket, then casually tossed a lollipop to Ophelia. He said, "The smell of blood is overpowering. Try to cover it up a bit. When Ray saw Ophelia, a hint of surprise shed in his eyes. He was amazed by Ophelia''s ability to escane on k also surprised at how Eric had nailed it out, 92%


    NOV


    Ophelia said. "Did either of you bring a phone? Call Keh to let him know we''re safe."


    Kay tapped his forehead with his fingers. He said, "Mr. Sinir still in there."


    Ophelia shouted, "What?" she frowned, thinking she misheard. She asked, "Didn''t he go back to Denex?" But she quickly understood Keh''s n.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Eric said. "How could he bear to leave you behind and walk away? He was somewhat helpless, thinking that he had told Keh that Ophelia could escape on her own, but Keh insisted oning to help. He couldn''t convince Keh. Ophelia said. "I''m going back to find him." With that, she prepared to go back the way she came.


    Ray said, "Mrs. Sinir, let''s wait outside for Mr. Sinir. If you go back and hees out, then you two will just...


    Ophelia thought what Ray said was right. But she still felt a bit uneasy. Jonathan was deceitful and sly, and she worried Keh might be at a disadvantage,


    Ophelia followed behind Ray and Eric to meet up with the main group. Only after she stepped out did she see the whole ce.


    It was indeed a great spot. The passage led directly to a winding mountain road, with a helipad at the top. The area was lush with trees, and even the exit of the passage was very well hidden


    Ophelia asked, "How did you guys find this ce?" She thought. This ce shouldn''t be easy to find


    "Mr. Sinir asked your friend for help, Ray replied.


    Hearing this. Ophelia immediately thought of Chloe. She was determined to properly thank Chloe when she got back.


    By the time they reached the dense forest, dawn was breaking; the sky was a hazy gray.


    Ophelia waited for a while, noticing there was no movement inside. She had been worried about Keh, and now there was a growing sense of unease in her heart. She said, I have to go back."


    Inside the manor''s grand hall, in the center stood two men holding guns pointed at each other. The room''s temperature dropped to freezing as their groups took defensive stances. It seemed like this battle wouldn''t end until someone died. Keh''s pair of dark, narrow eyes were chilling and intimidating


    Jonathan''s pair of icy blue eyes narrowed slightly, exuding a natural coldness.


    The situation reached a stalemate.


    After a long pause, Jonathan sighed, "This is boring. How about game, Keh?"


    Keh agreed, "I''m in."


    Both of them lowered their guns


    Jonathan took out the magazine. He emptied it of the bullets, leaving just one. He showed it to Keh for inspection.


    Keh knew what Jonathan wanted to y. He cooperatively packed out the bullets one by one, skillfully taking apart the


    gun.


    Jonathan casually exined the rules of the game, "After we assemble it, we''ll walk five steps back-to-back, turn, and shoot. We''ll be betting our lives." 00092%!


    "Alright," Keh agreed inmediately.


    On the two


    transparent coffee tables, the parts were arranged neatly.


    "I set the game. You say when to start, Jonathan said as he raised an eyebrow.


    Keh sneered, "Since you''ve resorted to kidnapping, don''t pretend to be a gentleman now."


    Jonathan was momentarily speechless, his face darkening. He thought that if that was the case, he might as well y the


    viin to the end.


    He shouted, "Start"'' As his voice faded, only the sound of Keh and Jonathan assembling guns could be heard in the silent hall. They both performed skillfully and swiftly.


    After taking five steps, they turned around almost at the same time.


    Keh felt everything go dark and instinctively pulled the trigger.


    "Bam" the gunshot rang out, but the bullet just grazed past Jonathan''s car.


    Jonathan''s finger paused in surprise. When he turned his head earlier, he saw Ophelia suddenly step in front of Keh, her arms spread wide to protect him.


    A fierce sense of defeat pierced Jonathan, and he swung his arm frustration. With a bang sound, the bullet struck the oil painting above the firece.


    Jonathan thought. Is she out of her mind? She was willing to risk everything to escape from me, but now she''s back for Keh. Are these two crazy? One makes a huge fuss, while the other doesn''t even care for her life. Keh''s vision cleared. Seeing Ophelia standing fiercely in front of him, his eyes zing with anger. He shouted, "Ophelia


    Ophelia instinctively shrank her neck, her eardrums throbbing painfully from the shout.


    She turned around, her face turning instantly like an angry little beast. She said, "Keh! Are you trying to get yourself killed? Why did you y such dangerous games with him? What if he hurt you?"


    Jonathan stared at Ophelia for a long time, his arm dropping as he sighed, "Let them go." After saying that, he turned and went upstairs, not ncing at the two across from him even once.

 Jilted Bride 199

    Keh frowned, feeling a bit guilty after Ophelia yelled at hit like that. He asked, "Why did youe back? Don''t you realize it''s dangerous here? He had the confidence that he wouldn''t get hurt. Keh asked, "Don''t trust me?" He pinched Ophelia''s chin. The harshness he had shown towards Jonathan a moment ago vanished instantly. His voice was noticeably less severe than before, Suddenly, a nerve in his forehead twitched wildly like a snapped thread. He hugged Ophelia in front of hirm tightly. squeezed his eyes shut, and then reopened them.


    Ophelia was wrapped in his arms. She asked, "What''s wrong?" She thought, ''Did I yell at him too loudly?"


    Jonathan walked to the top of the second-floor stairs and nced down. With just a glimpse, his chest felt heavy, like a big stone was weighing it down.


    He thought. What''s Keh pretending for? Is he hurt? Acting as if he needs someone to take care of him for some big mjury. How disgusting!" "Let''s go home." Keh murmured softly into Ophelia''s ear, his voice gentle.


    "Okay. Ophelia replied. When she slipped out of his arms, her small hand was instantly gripped tightly by Keh as if he was afraid she might run off. They boarded the helicopter, waiting at the entrance, together.


    The thunderous sound of helicopter des roared overhead. Jonathan sat in the half-copsed study, surrounded by a deste, gloomy atmosphere. The sound of the helicopter gradually faded away.


    The sun slowly rose as Phoebe carried a tray upstairs. She nced at the spot Ophelia had blown up, a fleeting hatred shing in her eyes.


    She said, "Jonathan, have something to eat. She carefully walked over and ced the tray on the man''s desk. Whether on purpose or not, her pale arm was exposed, showing marks from needle pricks..


    Jonathan lifted his eyes, his icy blue gaze as cold and unyielding as ancient ice. He asked, "Do you know what happens to those who betray the Davidson family?"


    Hearing Jonathan''s words, Phoebe fell to her knees with a thud, her face still pale and her body weak and drained.


    She said. "Jonathan, I didn''t. I swear I didn''t reveal this ce''s location. I can swear it! I can even prove my innocence with my life.


    Jonathan, I know my life belongs to the Davidson family. I will only work for the Davidson family. You have to believe me. She thought, As long as Jonathan calms down, I could save my life. Keh understands Jonathan''s temperament perfectly. He released the back, counting on Jonathan to personally handle the situation


    Not hearing Jonathan saya


    else, Phoebe looked up. She said, "Jonathan, I know you like Ophelia. I can help you." When Ophelia was mentioned, Jonathan''s expression softened slightly. He nced sideways at Phoebe on the ground.


    He asked, "Are you trying to use me to get to Keh?" His voice was cold and slightly mocking. He continued, "Do you think you''re worthy of making a deal with me?"


    Phoebe quickly gave up on her little schemes. She said, "No, Jonathan, I sincerely want to help you. If Emma found out you


    liked someone, she''d definitely be happy for you. Jonathan, just give me some time; I will help you."


    Jonathan''s eyes flickered slightly. Just then, a ck cat appeared out of nowhere, jumping onto the table. Jonathan picked it up and lightly said. "One month," Phoebe said, "One month? Jonathan, can you give me a little more time? Three months, no, no, two months at the most, is that okay?"


    Jonathan said nothing and continued stroking the cat''s sleek ck fur.


    The helicopter quicklynded at a military base in Waston


    Seeing Ophelia and Keh unscathed, Victor stood in themand room and breathed a sigh of relief. He thought, It''s good that everything is fine. Keh didn''t even bother to say goodbye. He rushed Ophelia into the car and headed straight for their private airport. Two hourster, the nended in Denex. Keh safely dropped Ophelia off at Rosewood Manor and took the opportunity to change his clothes.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    He told Ophelia. Don''t wander around these days. Have Ray and his team follow you wherever you go. I''m going on at business trip for a few days. Wait for my return."


    Tor how long Ophelia said. She wondered, ''Is this sudden business trip rted to the Davidson family?''


    Keh lowered his head, his fingers gently tracing Ophelia''s cheek. His gaze greedily scanned every inch of her skin. before finally resting on her innocent doe-like eyes. He replied. Mgia, for about half a month. Be good and wait for me." Ophelia thought. That''s such a long time! She nodded and asked "Why are you in such a hurry? Aren''t you going to rest a


    bit first?"


    Keh said, "With you here, it''s impossible to rest. He pushed Ophelia against the wardrobe and gave her a passionate kiss. He dominantly stole her breath away.


    It wasn''t until Ophelia ced her hands on his shoulders and pushed forward that Keh let her go. "Is our rtionship just mutual use?" he asked, his voice hinting at danger.


    Ophelia barely caught her breath before Keh gave her earlobe a firm pinch. It didn''t hurt; it was just ticklish.


    She looked puzzled, thinking. What does he mean by mutual use? Meeting Keh''s gaze, she suddenly realized. She thought, Jonathan, that despicable guy, recorded everything" She blinked and yfully pinched Keh''s earlobe. She said. It is a stalling tactic. Don''t believe it."


    Keh said, "Little one, we''ll settle this when I get back. Then, he held Ophelia by the nape again and kissed her forehead. His gaze was tender,


    Ophelia went down the stairs, watching Keh until he got into the car.


    The yard''s roses were budding, and the grass was sprouting on thewnt: it was a lively spring scene.


    Ophelia returned to her room and looked at the empty bed. The tiredness from the ne waspletely gone now. She went to the study and called Chine.


    While waiting, she casually flipped through the novel on the table: The Old Denes. The call went unanswered, she thought Chloe might be busy


    Meanwhile, Chloe hurriedly brought Wyatt to the hospital.


    Blood seeped through the white bandage wrapped around the knee, staining arge of the gray pants.


    area


    Usuallyposed and calm, Chloe was now so flustered her brenhing was uneven, her eyes red with worry. She wished she could bleed instead of She wished she could bleed instead of the one she held in her arms. She held in her arms. Let me hold him for a while. Noah said, keeping close behind Chloe. He tried several times to take Wyatt from her arms, but she insisted on holding him hersel


    Noah said. "T''s pitiful for you two to be all alone like this. Not even a man in the house


    It was the height of rush hour, if Noah hadn''t bumped into them on the road, who knows how long they''d still be waiting for a cab? Noah had just finished his tasks, so he offered to give them a ride.


    Chloe looked at Noah coldly. She said. Thank you, Mr. West. We''re here now, so you do no need to follow us any further" Her tone was icy, and each word dripped with hostility, not sounding thankful at all.


    She thought. "If it weren''t for my car breaking down yesterday and being sent for repairs, I wouldn''t have needed his help


    Seeing that Noah was still following. Chloe kept walking forward, ignoring him. Wyatt was her priority, and she couldn''t waste time arguing, so she just let Noah follow along

 Jilted Bride 200

    COMMENT Chapter


    200


    Chloe brought Wyatt into the emergency room. It was just a small cut, but it was bleeding heavily.


    Dn Avery, a doctor in his thirties, had always been responsible for Wyatt''s check-ups. He was impressed by Chloe and Wyatt. Because Wyatt was very well-behaved. Wyatt didn''t cry of fuss even when Dn injected the clotting factor. There was some minor bruising around the wound, and Dn del some basic treatment, but the cut was still oozing blood.


    While waiting for observation. Wyan turned his dark eyes and said, "Mommy, I''m okay, it doesn''t hurt, don''t worry."


    Seeing Wyatt''s pale face, Chloe felt an overwhelming sense of guilt. She bent down to Wyatt''s eye level and said and said, "It''s my fault. I shouldn''t have let you go downstairs alone to get the milk." Wyatt said. "It''s not your fault, Mommy; it''s my carelessness. It was just a one-off incident. You can''t stop me from being independent because of this. I''m a on, and I need to protect you.


    Noah couldn''t help but reach out and pinch Wyatt''s chubby cheeks. He said, "I didn''t realize you''re quite the sweetheart. No wonder your mom decided to have you"


    "Having him has nothing to do with you, Chloe snapped as she pped Noah''s hand away.


    Noah was taken aback, wondering. "I haven''t said anything, so why is she so mad?"


    "Get out. We don''t need you here, Chloe said, taking a deep breath. Unconsciously averting her gaze, she realized her words seemed a bit nonsensical. Noah always managed to mess with her mind. "If you two are going to argue, do it at home. This is a hospital, Dn said sternly


    Chloe said. "Who''s married to him?"


    Noah said, "Who''s married to her?"


    They spoke at the same time.


    Dn rubbed his forehead in exasperation, thinking, "They are so in syne yet still iming they''re not a couple!


    Time went by slowly. Wyatt''s wound continued to bleed despite the infusion of a coagnt.


    Dn''s expression turned serious. He said, "The bleeding is increasing, and we need to transfuse fresh blood. Wyatt''s blood type is somewhat unusual.


    Chloe frowned as she suddenly remembered something. Thest time when Eric needed blood, she seemed to recall Ophelia''s blood type being O-negative.


    Chloe immediately wanted to call Ophelia and searched her pockets, only to find she didn''t have her phone. She asked, "Dr. Avery, can I borrow your phone for a moment?"


    Dn handed Chloe his phone, ncing at Noah with curiosity but choosing not to ask any questions.


    Noah asked, "What''s Wyatt''s blood type? How unusual is it?" He thought, ''He is not an alien, anyway. How unusual could his blood type be?


    "O-negative, Dn blurted out, causing Chloe to pause mid-dial Her heart almost seemed to stop with anxiety.


    Just like me, Noah said as he stopped Chloe''s hand mid-dial. He said, "You don''t need to call anyone; use mine. I thought it was something special, not just dinosaur blood


    10:54 Thu, Nov 21 BG.


    With that. Noah took off his suit jacket, unbuttoned the culls of his shirt, and rolled up his sleeves, revealing his well-built


    forearm.


    Without waiting for Chloe to say anything, Dn had the nearly nurse take Noah for a blood type cross-match. He thought, No matter what differences Chloe and her husband have, their child''s well-being is the priority! The results came quickly, and it was a match.


    A heavy weight settled in Chloe''s heart. Her expression didn''t lighten much despite the sessful match. Instead, her heartbeat quickened.


    Dn led Noah and Wyatt to the hospital room and asked thens toy on separate beds.


    Is this needle really that thick?" Noah asked and gulped.


    His looks ensured he stood out everywhere. So the nurse spoke to him gently, "It''s okay, sir, it only hurts a little at first."


    Noah turned his head away, just in time to meet Chloe and Wyatt''s steady gazes. He pressed his lips together and said seriously, "Go ahead"


    He had been calma moment ago, but when the needle went in his face twisted in pain. His voice trembled as he said, "Ouch. A little more gently, please."


    Seeing this, Chloe thought. Does he get scared too? She quietly withdrew her gaze, realizing Noah was a totally different person now-aparison to his past self wasn''t fair.


    Wyatt was prepared for the IV drip during the blood draw break. After the blood was injected, the coagtion factors helped control the bleeding from the wound.


    Wyatt was discharged after being observed for the afternoon.


    He said to Noah, "Uncle Noah, thanks for giving me your blood How abouting to my house for dinner? My mom makes the best sauced beef steak."


    "Really? I love that," Noah replied, and his eyes lit up. He said, "A least you have a bit of a conscience. But I worry your


    He added in his heart, ''Does she have any sense of decency! He gave Chloe a sideways nce.


    His tie was long gone, and two buttons were undone at the cor, Standing tall, he wore a gray shirt and ck pants, with his jacket casually slung over one shoulder and his other hand in his pocket. Thanks for today, Chloe said, not looking at Noah


    Is that all? Oh dear, I''m feeling faint, Noah said as he rubbed his forehead and yfully winked at Wyatt.


    Wyatt said, "Mommy, Uncle Noah feels faint. He must have given too much blood for me. How about we invite Uncle Noah for a simple dinner at our ce?"


    Chloe looked at Wyatt in her arms, who had regained some color and spoke very earnestly. She thought, ''Does he really like Noah that much? He never used to talk like this before!


    She wanted to refuse. She said, "But it''s sote today.." Before she could finish, Noah scooped Wyatt from her arms.


    Noah said, "You really have a heart of gold. I didn''t give blood to you for nothing" Then, he didn''t bother waiting to hear what Chloe had to say and carried Wyatt straight into the car.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    With no other choice, Chloe had to follow along.


    10492%


    10-54 Thu, Nov 21


    As the car drove by arge supermarket, Noah nced at Chloe and Wyatt in the back seat through the rearview mirror. He asked. "Shouldn''t we stop by the supermarket to pick up some groceries first?" Chloe replied. "Yeah." She thought. There really aren''t many groceries left at home?


    Noah parked the car on the underground level and, without waiting for Chloe to speak, opened the back door and carried Wyatt out of the car.


    Chloe could only quietly follow them. She pushed a shopping cart forward, and when she looked up, Noah and Wyatt had


    vanished.


    A woman in her thirties squinted, sizing up Chlor not too far away. She said, "Mrs. Larkin, isn''t that the person who was talking business with your husband the other day, the one from La Reverie! "You had me check her out. What was her name again, Chloe something"


    "Where?" Ruby asked as she straightened her back, looking in the direction the woman was pointing. Her gaze locked on Chloe, and she instantly turned into a mother hen ready for battle.


    Ruby said, "It''s really that homewrecker. She thought, Just because she thinks she looks good, she dares to seduce my husband! The long hair on him the other day must ve been hers Ruby took a few quick steps toward Chloe. She asked, "Are you the one in charge of La Reverie? Chloe, is it you?"


    Chloe found her view blocked by the two women who approached her. She asked, "And who are you?"


    Ruby said. "You don''t need to know who I am. All you need to know is that my husband is the one yourpany is eager to


    partner with


    Ruby, arms crossed and carrying a designer bag worth thousands walked up to Chloe and gave her an once-over.


    She said, "Tve checked you out-a single mom with a kid. You want to snag a rich guy to care for you two, right? Who do you think you are?


    Tm telling you, keep away from my husband. Or else, you''ll get what''sing to you, you shameless gold digger!"

 Jilted Bride 201

    The supermarket entrance was bustling with people. Ruby''s words were downright mean.


    In today''s society, nothing angers women more than homewreckers, and the supermarket, packed with women, was the prime location for such gossip. A crowd quickly gathered to watch One said, "She looks decent enough, but who would''ve thought she''d be someone''s mistress!"


    Another one said, "Nowadays, women just rely on their looks without any moral boundaries."


    Someone said. "Single moms like her might look pitiful on the qutside, but seriously, why else would she be raising a kid alone without a man?"


    One said, "Exactly! There''s usually a reason why someone is supposedly pitiful."


    Chloe had heard these kinds ofments countless times. Her heart was now


    now like-stone, unfazed by them.


    At that time, Noah''s rxed voice came from one of the nearby shelves. He said, "Ladies, watch yournguage! Didn''t you brush your teeth? It reeks!"


    Noah held Wyatt with one hand, his strong forearm exposed by his rolled-up shirt sleeves. While he tossed a few toys into the shopping cart Chloe was pushing with the other hand.


    Ruby was feeling smug. In her opinion, Chloe, who shamelessly seduced her husband, deserved public humiliation, a march down the street while people tossed rotten vegetables at her. But she didn''t expect Noah to speak up for Chloe. Ruby shouted, "Who do you think you''re talking to? And who are you to mind my business? Back off!"


    Wyatt said, "Mommy, are they bullying you? You people better stop talking nonsense." He frowned. The serious and fierce. expression on his little face mirrored that of Noah holding him.


    Wyatt turned his head and wrapped his arms around Noah''s neck. He said, "This is my dad. Take a good look"


    Chloe''s breath caught, and her heart nearly jumped out of her throat.


    Wyatt reached back and tugged at Noah''s hair.


    "Yeah, that''s right!" Noah said as he straightened up. His cold gaze swept over the crowd, finally locking onto the bejeweled Ruby.


    Noah said, "Who did you just tell to back off? Did you ask my woman away from your husband? Who even is your husband? Please, as if hepares! Let me warn you: chill somewhere else, Or you might end up feeding the fish" Noah learned that from Keh. Saying that, he walked over and wrapped his arm around Chloe.


    Chloe was a bit surprised. She turned her head and nced at the big hand on her shoulder. Her once tough heart suddenly felt soft and tender, almost overwhelmed by unexpected grievances.


    The image of this little family of three was enough to embarrass everyone there, especially that exceptionally good-looking father son duo; those mocking them quickly changed their attitude.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    One said, "With such a handsome husband, why would she need to seduce anyone else?"


    Another person said, "Exactly, these people just overreact to gossip."


    Someone said, "Look at that old woman''s face. She can''t keep her husband, so she creates imaginary enemies. It''s just ridiculous."


    The middle-aged wornam behind Ruby quickly stepped forward to pull her away. The woman said, "Mrs. Larkin, let''s leave. This man seems like trouble; maybe I made a mistake. Chloe win''t a single mom. "Mrs. Larkin?" Chloe picked up on the important details. She gave Ruby a cold nce. Now she knew who Ruby was. "Is your husband Gary Larkin?"


    Ruby said, "You admit it, don''t you? Admit to seducing my husband, right? Can you honestly say you''ve never tried to seduce my husband? He''s a big client of yours!"


    She didn''t want to say it in front of so many people, but she thought, With a woman like her, who knows how many men in business she''s been with.


    Chloe ignored Ruby and took a phone from Noah''s pocket. She dialed a number and put it on speaker.


    She said, "Hello, Mr. Larkin, this is Chloe, the head of La Reverie


    Gary said, "Oh my, Ms. Stevens! Why are you calling me personally? I''m truly ttered. Does this mean you''ve agreed to work with us?"


    Ruby instantly recognized the voice on the other end as her husband''s, but she wondered why he was so polite.


    Chloe said, "Mr. Larkin, I''m calling to officially inform you that the proposal you submitted didn''t pass. We can''t move forward with this partnership."


    Gary replied, "What? Ms. Stevens, what do you mean by this? Why are you suddenly backing out of such a promising project? Is it the price that''s unsatisfactory, or do you think the quality doesn''t meet your standards?


    "Just tell me, and I''ll make the necessary changes. Please, don''t hack out of our coboration."


    Ruby was stunned to hear Gary speaking so submissively. She was in total disbelief, thinking, "What''s going on here!"


    Chloe said, "Because your wife told me to stay away from you, we can''t work together. Besides, La Reverie doesn''t coborate with someone who cannot manage their family matters. If your wife continues to trouble me privately, I will report it to the police." Chloe was straightforward and hung up right after speaking.


    Ruby hadn''t yet processed what had happened when her phone began to ring in her purse. As soon as she answered, Gary started scolding her harshly. Anyone could hear everything clearly through the phone.


    Gary said, "What were you doing? Did you trouble my client? You better apologize because I''ll get fired if anything goes wrong with this client. Then you''ll be out there struggling without a penn


    "Why did I end up with someone as ipetent as you? If my deal falls through, you''ll be out of our home, too. What was ! thinking when I married you?"


    Ruby wanted to exin. She said, "Honey, L. Before she could exin, the call ended with a beep.


    Ruby''s arrogance vanished instantly. She looked helplessly at Chloe and said, "Ms. Stevens


    Seeing Chloe about to leave, Ruby quickly blocked her shopping cart with both hands, not caring about her image in front


    of everyone.


    She said, "Ms. Stevens, I''m sorry. Please, I''m begging you, don''t stop working with my husband. I was wrong. I''m truly sorry." Before Chloe could speak, Noah took her right hand.


    Noah ced Wyatt into the shopping cart, pushing it with one hand and holding Chloe''s hand with the other. He turned to warn Ruby, "Stay away and don''t follow us, or you''ll face the consequences." 10:13 Fri, Nov 22 a


    Noah led Chloe forward just like that. After walking a short distance, he showed no intention of le


    1. go.


    A strange sense of calm filled Noah, and for a moment, he felt it was an illusion. He wondered. ''Do we know each other? Why does this feel so familiar, like holding her came so naturally Noah felt a difort in his heart. He steadied himself against the shopping cart while his grip on Chloe''s hand became tighter.


    This feeling was unpleasant, like suddenly forgetting something important he needed to do. His heart felt empty, and his mind was nk.


    Chloe asked, "Noah, are you alright?"


    Noticing Noah''s strange expression and the sweat on his forehead, Chloe patted his cheek while Noah suddenly held her hand. Noah said, "We-"


    COMMENT


    0

 Jilted Bride 202

    88%1


    Noah r


    ubbed his forehead, pressing hard. Meeting Chloe''s deep ocean-like blue eyes made his heart skip a beat. After a long pause, he took a deep breath and closed his eyes. Noah asked, "What... what are we having for dinner tonight?"


    Chloe let out a soft sigh and lowered her eyes. Before she could respond, Wyatt in the shopping cart spoke up first, "sauced beef steak"


    "Exactly. We should buy some ribs," Noah said, pushing the shopping cart in the wrong direction. He said, "Wyatt, you are smart."


    "Uncle Noah, you''re going the wrong way. It''s over there," Wyatt said as he pointed out


    Noah adjusted the cart and backed it up.


    Wyatt nced at Chloe standing motionless. He thought, "What''s with these two acting so weird? He asked, "Mommy, why are you standing there like that?"


    Chloe frowned. She snapped out of it and clenched her fists. She thought, I must be losing it, seeing odd expressions in the eyes of someone with a mixed-up mind"


    She took a deep breath and quickly caught up with Noah before he bought randomly. She picked out a few good ribs. When she put the ribs in the shopping cart, she noticed there were toys inside.


    She asked, "Why are you guys buying so many toys?"


    "Because Uncle Noah has never yed with them," Wyatt exined, thinking it was childish but figuring if Noah wanted to y, let him y.


    Chloe nced up at Noah. Noah naturally looked away and scanned the area. He suggested, "Let''s get some snacks too!" Seeing Noah''s awkward way of walking, Chloe frowned, wondering if something was wrong with him. By the time they left the supermarket, it was already dark.


    Noah let Chloe drive the car while he hopped into the back seat and started ying with the new toys they just bought. He thought, ''Why don''t they seem as fun as before they were bought?"


    Noah said to Wyatt, "You can have all these; consider them gifts from me."


    Wyatt looked dismissive and said, "They are so childish. I don''t want to y with them. My mom bought me way cooler


    stuff."


    Noah asked, "Cooler stuff?" He thought, Maybe with cooler stuff, I won''t overthink. It must be these low-level toys aren''t tempting enough'' They arrived at the apartment.


    It was Noah''s first time seeing such a small ce; amusingly, he didn''t feel like leaving once he stepped in. He was curious about everything.


    The house was spotless, and foam pads covered every sharp corner, ensuring nothing was pointy.


    Noah said, "Wow! You''re amazing. How do you manage to juggle work and take such great care of Wyatt at the same time?"


    "If Wyatt was really well taken care of, he wouldn''t have gotten hurt, Chloe said. She still felt a bit guilty,


    NOV 22


    "How can you say that? Kids are bound to have little idents. You''re doing great, Noah said, then eagerly went to check out Wyatt''s toys.


    Chloe stopped in her tracks when she heard his words, a warmth blossoming in her heart.


    It was gettingte, and Chloe carried her things to the kitchen. While prepping dinner, she''d asionally look up and see Noah and Wyatt ying with toys on the living room carpet. Noah was ying more enthusiastically than Wyatt. She forced herself not to look, telling herself that this warmth wasn''t meant for her; she didn''t deserve it.


    She thought, ''Noah doesn''t know anything now, so it doesn''t matter. But once he remembers everything, he definitely won''t forgive me.


    By the time thevish dinner was ready, it was already nearly ten o''clock.


    Drawn by the aroma, Noah and Wyatt came over.


    "Wash your hands, Chloe reminded Wyatt, and Noah immediately carried Wyatt to the bathroom.


    Wyatt stood on a stool, and Noah stood behind him, hisrge hands full of white suds as he scrubbed Wyatt''s chubby little hands.


    The scene made Chloe''s eyes misty. She thought, Is it what they call family bonds? I have never seen Wyatt so happy before. Her heart felt like it was pricked by a needle, deepening her guilt-


    "What''s wrong? Time to eat. Did the kitchen fumes get in your eyes?" Noah asked as he leaned in closer. He curiously observed Chloe.


    "Yeah, a little," Chloe casually made up an excuse to brush it off


    Noah said, "Next time, you teach me, and I''ll do it."


    Faced with the sincerity in Noah''s eyes, Chloe''s heart skipped a beat. ''Next time? Are youing again?" she asked as she raised her eyebrows.


    Noah didn''t reply and just sat down at the dining table, ready to dig in


    With a guy around, food definitely wouldn''t go to waste.


    When Noah took a bite of the first piece of pork ribs, it was like a nerve in him came alive. He kept eating, one after another.


    you eaten all


    Wyatt said, "Delicious, right? My mom''s cooking is the best. But Uncle Noah, you can''t eat that much. Haven''t you day?"


    "How did you know? I''ve been starving all day. If it weren''t for those two cake samples and three sausages at the supermarket, I wouldn''t have made it till now," Noah said while still stuffing food into his mouth. Wyatt had just put a piece of rib in his mouth and immediately spat it back into the bowl. He thought, "That is embarrassing. He asked, "Mommy, why is it so salty today?"


    Chloe said, "Sorry, I guess I added too much salt. Try eating something else."


    After the meal, Noah was very full.


    After cleaning up, Chloe was ready to see Noah out,


    Wyatt said, "Mommy, how about letting Uncle Noah stay here tonight? He gave me so much blood, he''s feeling dizzy. Wyatt Stevens tugged on Noah''s hair again. He asked, "Am I right, Uncle Noah?" Chapter 202


    Noah said. "Yes, I''m dizzy


    Chloe said, "No way. Besides, we''re not really close. It''s not convenient." She frowned, thinking. When did Noah be so shameless?


    Noah pressed his lips together and said, "I''m dizzy and very tired. I can''t drive. What if something happens? I don''t want you to feel guilty for the rest of your life."


    Chloe felt a twinge in her heart, the color draining from her face. She shouted, "Are you crazy? Who wants something to happen to themselves? Do what you want, just don''t die here! She turned and went into the bedroom. Wyatt had never seen Chloe like this before. He said, "Uncle Noh, maybe you should leave. My mommy''s angry"


    Noah mumbled, "Alright."


    Chloe leaned against the door. Tears she had held back all day fill heavily onto the floor.


    Soon, there was the faint sound of someone getting dressed outside the door. Noah said, "Well, I''m leaving. Today''s ribs were the tastiest I''ve ever had. Thanks for the meal. I''m heading off now, Wyatt."


    Chloe wiped her tears and walked out of the room without looking up at them. She said, "You, you sleep on the couch."


    She wasn''t sure what she was doing: she didn''t want to feel guilty anymore. More importantly, she didn''t want Wyatt to be let down.


    "Hurry up and get to sleep," Chloe said before turning back to her room. She could still hear the sound of Noah and Wyatt giving each other a high-five in celebration.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    The phone on the bedside table chimed twice.


    Chloe picked it up and saw that Ophelia had called her several times today. She quickly answered, adjusting her voice.


    She said, ''Elia, what''s going on? I took Wyatt to the doctor today and forgot my phone."


    Ophelia asked, "What happened to Wyatt?" She knew Chloe well; Chloe wouldn''t forget her phone unless something were


    wrong.


    Chloe replied. "It''s nothing serious, don''t worry. By the way, are you okay? Did Jonathan bother you at all?"


    Ophelia said, "I''m fine, too. Sorry for bothering you again, Chloe. It''s so nice to have you around."


    Chloe asked, "Since when did you start saying such sappy thing


    Ophelia said, "By the way, Chloe, earlier you..." She hadn''t finished speaking wheri suddenly a man''s voice was heard on the other end. And she found the voice familiar.

 Jilted Bride 203

    Ophelia''s eyes widened in shock. She thought, Is the voice I just heard Noah? What is going on?


    "TII exin tomorrow, Chloe said quickly before hanging up.


    When Chloe opened the door, she saw Wyatt dart into the bathroom like a streak. Noah stood there with his shirt halfway off, revealing his muscr V-shaped torso, which was marked with scars of various sizes truly startling. Chloe knew better than anyone how each of those scars came aliout.


    She said, "Really? Can''t you make do for one night? Do you still want to shower? You don''t even have a change of clothes here, so what''s the point of showering?"


    "Fine." Noah said. He looked upset as he put his shirt back on, leaving the front unbuttoned, showing off his chest and abs.


    "Mommy, you look tired. Why don''t you rest? Uncle Noah can help me with my bath, Wyatt said, peeking his head out of the bathroom.


    Chloe thought, ''Does he not need me anymore now that Noah is here? Is Noah here to take my son away from me?"


    "Wyatt needs me," Noah said as he slipped into the bathroom, not allowing Chloe to stop him.


    Chloe thought. There is no point in arguing with a fool''


    When Wyatt finished his bath, Noah''s shirt and pants were also soaked. Chloe handed over a ck knit sweater and long


    pants.


    Noah said, "So you do have men''s clothes here! Oh, I get it, these must be Wyatt''s dad''s clothes, right?"


    "Yes, it was what he was wearing when he passed away," Chloe said softly, making sure Wyatt couldn''t hearBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Noah''s hand trembled as he grabbed the clothes. He said, "I I don''t mind."


    A few minutester, Noah came out of the bathroom wearing the clothes, still drying his wet hair with a towel. He asked, "So. Wyatt, who are you sleeping with tonight?" "What are you up to now? Wyatt sleeps alone. You can take the couch," Chloe said, standing at the bathroom door. She really regretted letting Noah stay.


    Wyatt said. "Mommy, when I''m at Ophelia''s house, I sleep with Uncle Keh. He tells stories."


    "Can''t I tell them?" Chloe asked, feeling a bit hurt.


    Wyatt said, "Your stories are for three-year-olds, and I''m already five."


    Chloe realized that when Noah was around, Wyatt waspletely different.


    Without waiting for Chloe to say anything. Noah carried Wyatt into his room.


    Through the door, Chloe wondered if Noah, who was a bit out of his mind, could really tell a better story than her.


    Noah asked, "Where did we leave offst time?"


    Wyatt replied, "You were telling me about when you barged into the bandits'' hideout


    Noah said. "Oh right, back then I... wait a minute, I have a question for you first!" Chapter 203


    Wyatt said, ''Go ahead.


    Chloe stood outside the door, almost pressing her ear against it without realizing it. But she couldn''t hear anything about Noah''s question. She wondered what Noah said. "Let me think about it since she''s my mommy, after all. Wyatt whispered secretly.


    Chloe thought, "What did Noah ask exactly?"


    Noah said, "Alright then, think about it, and I will continue the story.


    Chloe stood at the door until her legs went numb. She didn''t even know why she stood there listening to so much nonsense. She thought, ''His story isn''t as interesting as the stories I told Wyatt. Chloe opened the door a crack and peeked inside. Noah was lounging across the bed, while Wyatt was sprawled out on his stomach, without even a nket. She tiptoed over and tucked Wyatt in. The dim nightlight by the bed cast a soft glow on Noah''s face. At that moment, the familiar sensation took Chloe''s breath away. She thought, "This is who he truly is. Chloe murmured, "Noah, if I say I didn''t mean to deceive you back then, do you believe me?" After that, she let out a bitter chuckle, staring at Noah for a long time. On the other hand, after Ophelia hung up the phone, she blinked twice and felt dizzy for a few seconds.


    She wondered, "Why would Chloe be with Noah? And I heard Wyatt''s voice, too. Forget it, I''ll just ask Chloe at the office


    tomorrow.


    Ophelia set the phone aside and kept reading her book. She wanted to finish it soon so she could return it during her lecture at Denex University on Tuesday.


    The book Ophelia was reading was The Old Denex. In the book, it said: [That was the first time Jake felt death so close to him, and panic spread throughout Denex. The hospitals were overwhelmed.


    [Within ten minutes, he watched as one body after another was carried away right in front of him. Everyone who caught a cold that winter didn''t make it back alive.]


    "Mrs. Sinir, it''s already eleven o''clock. It''s time to sleep, Lisa reminded as she came up to collect the milk cup.


    "Okay, I''ll sleep soon, Ophelia replied. She closed the book and suddenly thought of something. She asked, "Lisa, do know anything about what happened in Denex twenty-five years ago?"


    Lisa paused and pressed her lips together. She said, "Why do you ask that all of a sudden? Twenty-something years ago, that''s such a long time ago, I can barely remember. You should get some rest, Mrs. Sinir. I''ll leave now."


    For some reason, Ophelia felt that Lisa''s reaction seemed off, but she couldn''t quite pinpoint what was wrong. She thought she might be overthinking it


    ncing at the book on the table, she thought, ''It is just a novel. Not everything written in it is necessarily true.


    The next day, Ophelia arrived at the office early. It was the first time she got there before Chloe.


    "Ophelia, here are the summer evening gown design sketches, Marilyn said as she handed over a tablet showing the new


    drafts.


    Now, the designers at La Regerie had be very skilled, especially Marilyn. Since thepany recruited her from designpetition, her progress had been remarkable, and each season''s designs sold very well. Even though Marilyn was a few years older than Ophelia, she always respected Ophelia. Her adorable babyface always disyed sweet dimples.


    Ophelia took the tablet from Marilyn and looked over it carefully. She picked out a few pieces and said. "Have the designers of the rejected works meet in the conference roomter to discuss some revision ideas." Ophelia valued everyone''s designs and wouldn''t reject them outright.


    "Okay." Marilyn replied. She took the tablet and happened to nce at the top resume in the folder. She said. "Andrew?"


    "What?" Ophelia asked. She followed Marilyn''s gaze and saw the resume.


    She thought, This must be the file Chloe has organized for the Denex University interns who are being considered for SN Estate.


    She asked Marilyn, "You also went to Denex University, do you know him?"


    Marilyn replied, "Yeah, he''s our junior, a top student in the architecture department. He won many awards while in school and is pretty good-looking."


    She added inside, ''But he''s not as handsome as my idol, Rex: She gave a slight smile, revealing cute dimples on her cheeks. Her round eyes looked beautiful.


    Not long after Marilyn left, Chloe opened the door and came in She looked somewhat tired, with a faint dark circle under her eyes.


    Ophelia said, "Chloe, maybe you should take a break. I''ve got thepany covered."


    "It''s nothing. I didn''t rest wellst night. Wyatt got hurt yesterday, and thankfully Noah helped us out, so we invited him over for a simple dinner, Chloe exined, then quickly switched into work mode. Chloe picked up the documents for the interview from the table and handed them to Ophelia. She said, "These are the documents for this afternoon''s interviews. Have a look"


    Ophelia replied, "Okay."


    0

 Jilted Bride 204

    SN Estate was located in Centrispire Tower, right below the Glimmer Jewelry of the Reyes family.


    As fate would have it, Ophelia ran into Cecilia in the elevator just as she arrived.


    While waiting for the elevator, Ophelia sensed a hostile nce. She turned to meet Cecilia''s gaze. With several people between them, their eyes met in the air.


    Ophelia thought, ''Considering Cecilia''s personality, it''s surprising she''s still working here! But then she figured it out.


    At the Heloria Trade Summit, Ophelia heard that Harris was nning to run for Mayor of Denex this year, with a high


    chance of sess.


    For this reason alone, Harris would ensure Cecilia behaved herself for now, allowing her to continue as the nominal head of the HR department.


    Seeing her always by herself, it was clear her days at thepany weren''t easy. After all, nobody respected someone who got their position through connections without any real skills. Just by looking at Cecilia''s eyes. Ophelia knew she was being med for everything


    Cecilia straightened her back, a hint of disdain in her eyes. Then, she squeezed into the elevator before Ophelia As the elevator slowly went up. Cecilia kept ncing at Ophelia now and then. Glimmer Jewelry was on the 28th floor, but Ophelia got off on the 18th.


    Cecilia wondered, ''Isn''t she going to Glimmer Jewelry? Before the elevator doors closed, she couldn''t help but take a look at the 18th floor.


    The sign read SN Estate.


    Cecilia thought, ''Could this be Ophelia''spany too? As soon as this thought came to her, a wave of bitterness surged within.


    She thought, ''A nobody from the slums, does she really think she''ve be a phoenix just by climbing the socialdder?


    This time, Cecilia was more careful. After asking around and confirming it was indeed Ophelia''spany, she raised an eyebrow.


    She thought, Ophelia has embarrassed me twice before in public; I definitely have to get my revenge for that. A real estatepany? That''s easy to deal with."


    Cecilia walked out of the elevator and casually made a phone call Harris''s voice answered from the other end.


    Cecilia said, "Dad, do you have Trent''s number? Which Trent? Trent Louis, the one from the Urban Development Bureau, Of course, it''s important."


    Once she got ''Trent''s number, she immediately called. Her voice was sweet and polite as she said, "Uncle Trent, it''s Cecilia. I was hoping you could help me with something."


    On the 18th floor, the receptionist handed the documents to Ophelia and reported, "Ms. Spencer, three interviewees have arrived. A few others haven''t shown up yet.


    "I''ve called thems two are on their way, but I couldn''t reach the other two. They''re probably noting.


    Just as Ophelia had thought, even though the sry she offered wasn''t low, some people still preferred to squeeze into big-namepanies, and no one wanted to join her rtively unknown small firm. It was human nature, and she wasn''t surprised at all. In fact, shepletely understood.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    The interviews were scheduled for 2 p.m.. If the candidates didn''t show up by then, Ophelia wasn''t nning to wait any longer.


    Out of all of them, only four showed up.


    Thepany positions were still vacant, and Ophelia had to interview each candidate herself. Interviewing them individually was too time-consuming, so they were gathered in the conference room. "Ben Hart, Cody Oliver, Nate Walker, and Dan Baker," Ophelia read their names, matching them with each of their faces.


    Ben wore ck-rimmed sses, his hair pressed against his scalp. His skin was tanned, giving him an honest, down-to-earth appearance.


    Cody and Nate were both chubby and friendly, one tall and one short. The taller one was Cody, and the shorter one was Nate.


    As for Dan, who looked a bit rugged, she almost blurted out Sam the Great based on his appearance.


    Nate straightened up, trying to tuck in his belly so that the buttons on his shirt could rx a little.


    Ophelia gave them a brief overview of thepany and the short-term development ns. She asked them a few questions.


    The answers she received were satisfactory. Most importantly, their resumes were not overly embellished, and many sections were left nk.


    They came from ordinary families, had simple family dynamics, and maintained average grades in school. That was why they epted SN Estate''s offer. They were all quite straightforward, answering without holding back. Even Ben, who wasn''t very talkative, submitted a perfectly detailed architectural design The sry Ophelia offered wasn''t low-it matched the normal market rate for their positions. She didn''t call them interns, nor did she treat them like that


    Ophelia said, "We''re just starting out here and things aren''t perfect. If you have any thoughts or suggestions, feel free to share them with me. Any other questions?


    Working was all about making money. As long as the sry and benefits were good, there were no other issues. The four men shook their heads in unison. It was the first time they''d met such a generous and straightforward boss. They felt that the wisdom in Ophelia''s eyes wasforting as if anything she said would definitely happen. Ophelia smiled and said, "Wee aboard. I''ll have my assistant prepare the contracts. Please, make yourselves at home." Her smile was truly infectious, and this made the four even more determined to stay.


    After leaving the conference room, Ophelia went to the front desk for a drink of water while the receptionist prepared the


    contracts


    They were currently understaffed, so the receptionist was doing double duty, earning both a secretary''s and receptionist''s sry.


    Ophelia checked her wristwatch-it was already past three. As she looked up, she heard the elevator doors opening and 10:13 Fri, Nov 22 B


    closing. A man in a s¨¹lt walked out.


    Before entering, the man buttoned his suit, openly scrutinizing thepany with an obvious look of disdain in his eyes. He had never seen such a small real estatepany before.


    He thought, I am a top student from Denex University. Even I can''t join the Sinir Group, I should at least make it into one of the top fiftypanies. How


    Id this tiny firm even consider inviting me for an interview?


    Ophelia stood at the reception, asking politely. "Hello, may I know who you are?"


    With confidence, the man said. "I''m here for the interview. My name is Andrew Cortez."


    Upon hearing his name, Ophelia gave him another look.


    She thought, ''So he is the brilliant student Marilyn has mentioned. He doesn''t quite look like his photo, but he is definitely handsome. Only his eyes seem to be looking down on everyone Andrew''s eyes were filled with pure arrogance, which was understandable. Being a top student who had won numerous awards, it was natural for him to feel proud.


    Ophelia thought. As long as his capabilities are strong, everything else could be consideredter."


    Even though she really dislikedteness, she wanted to give Andrew a chance. After all, she needed someone at the moment.


    "Follow me, Ophelia said, leading the way.


    Andrew followed Ophelia, but instead of someone attending an interview, he looked like someone going to conduct one Ophelia didn''t say anything and brought Andrew to the conference room.


    By the window sat four men of various builds, and when they saw Andrew, a hint of surprise shed across their faces.


    Ben asked, "What is Andrew doing here?"


    Nate said, "Wasn''t he recently hired by a constructionpany under the Sinir Group? It seemed like he was the only one from our school who got in."


    Dan said, "Yeah, so why is he here? Could it be..."


    Hearing these words, Andrew''s expression immediately darkened. He didn''t expect to see other interviewees, who were from the same school as him. He gave the four a disdainful nce with subtle indifference. He thought. These people aren''t even worthy of shining my shoes back at school. Having an interview with them feels beneath me.


    0

 Jilted Bride 205

    Andrew adjusted his cor and sat across from the others. He crossed his legs and leaned back in his chair.


    Andrew said, "I''m different from you all. The Sinir Group is soll waiting for my update. Thispany called me, so I just stopped by to check it out."


    Honestly, the only reason he came was the decent sry and benefits; otherwise, he wouldn''t have bothered.


    The four people across the table all turned their eyes towards


    Ophelia. They thought, Andrew is way too arrogant, daring to talk like that in front of Ms. Spencer.


    "But after all, he''s a top student, and thepany really needs people. Ms. Spencer would probably want him here, we had better keep quiet.


    Ophelia turned her head to look at Andrew. She said, "If that''s the case, then we do not need to continue this talk today. This small business of mine can''t amodate an important person like you." She mentally crossed out Andrew''s perfect resume


    "Can a receptionist like you make decisions for the boss? Talk to me after you''ve seen my resume, Andrew sneered. He looked sideways at Ophelia, thinking it was too presumptuous for a receptionist to have such an attitude. Andrew added, "Why not just call your boss here? I''d like to talk privately with the boss."


    He didn''t even receive an interview invitation from the Sinir Group; he was saying that to get the boss here to offer a better sry.


    "Boss, here''s what you requested," the receptionist said as she came over with a pile of documents in her arms.


    Andrew paused. He uncrossed his legs and sat up straight. He looked at Ophelia suspiciously. He thought, ''Did that person just call her boss? Is she the boss here? How is she so young? So all the things I just said..." Andrew''s cheeks suddenly turned red as he pressed his lips together. He wanted to exin, but he waspletely ignored. Ophelia took the document and handed the contract to the four people next to her.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Andrew nced over and raised an eyebrow. He thought, "The sry is quite decent. If these four oddballs can get such high sries, then I will easily make a six-figure annual sry if I stay!


    After watching them sign the contract, Andrew lowered his stance. He said, "Sorry, you didn''t introduce yourself earlier, so I didn''t know you were the boss. My apologies


    The implication was to shift the me to Ophelia as if saying, who told you not to mention it yourself?


    Andrew continued, "I think you should seriously talk with me. After all, if you lose me, you might regrepit. His tone was exaggerated.


    Ophelia replied, "You said

 Jilted Bride 206

    0


    "A century ago, the Tyrus family''s embroidery workshop was famous in Denex, known for making clothes and evening gowns for wealthy families.


    In her youth, Gabrielle was the most skilled seamstress and could have married into a prominent family as a concubine. But she fell in love with a mere servant instead.


    "Willingly, she changed herst name and cut ties with the Tyrus family to live a life of anonymity with him, moving to the Gloomhaven, now is called the slums.


    "Later, there was a disaster that took many lives. The Tyrus family sent people to find her but with no sess. We all thought she had died in that ident."


    Hearing Enzo''s words, Ophelia had a very strong intuition. It seemed Enzo could give her the answers she wanted.


    She asked. "The disaster you''re talking about, was it thend remation project from a few years ago?" She wondered what kind of enormous project ended up being a disaster for the slums. "Thend remation project," Enzo slowly uttered the words, with a hint of disdain, she said, "Yes, it''s all done."


    Her 1


    Herst few words were so quiet that even with Ophelia''s good hearing, she only heard the word done.


    Ophelia asked, "Ms. Tyrus, could you tell me more about that disaster?"


    She knew it was a bit abrupt to ask, but she really wanted to know, Back then, she was little, and Gabrielle didn''t share much with her.


    When she wanted to know more, there was nothing she could find. It seemed like a big hand was erasing everything. Enzo sighed, "I''m not sure either. That was over twenty years ago. She thought, "How could I not know?" Ophelia had just thought she could get answers from Enzo. Now, she just felt her hopes dashed once more. She thought, So what was that disaster really? Was it not thend remation?"


    Enzo said, "Alright, it''s time for you to go teach the students."


    Enzo turned around and took Ophelia''s hand. Her eyes were soft. She patted the back of Ophelia''s hand and said. "You have quite the temper, just like your grandma. I never expected us to share this connection"N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Enzo thought, "It is a pity that I don''t have much time left, otherwise, I would have loved to spend more days with her." Ophelia said, "Ms. Tyrus, please take care of yourself. I''ll visit you often


    Enzo replied, "Never mind, I''ve decided to find a quiet ce to enjoy my retirement. We might not have many chances to meet, so take care of yourself."


    Ophelia gazed into Enzo''s eyes, and they reminded her of Gabrielle. She couldn''t help but lean down and give Enzo a gentle hug. She whispered, "Grandma." Feeling a little

 Jilted Bride 207

    0


    COMMENT


    "Sure, Mrs. Sinir, Ray replied and nodded respectfully. At fir, he felt a bit awkward letting Ophelia drive herself, but he got used to it.


    Eric in the passenger seat stayed indifferent.


    Ray opened the car door, and before Ophelia could get into the driver''s seat, he grabbed Eric by the back of his cor and shoved him into the backseat. He said. "What a handful The car started, with Eric and Ray sitting stiffly in the back.


    In the office, Nate was dabbing the sweat off his forehead with a bandkerchief, gulping down water with his other hand, and gasping for breath. He''d been running around all morning, exhausted.


    "Why are you guys back so early?" Dan asked casually as he walked out of the office. Both he and Ben were in the engineering department, while Nate and Cody managed projects.


    Dan thought, "Nate''sing back early means either everything goes smoothly, or it doesn''t. And his expression says it doesn''t go well."


    "Don''t even bring it up, Cody sighed as he slumped into a chair. He said, "I spent the whole morning getting kicked around like a ser ball. They kept saying this wasn''t enough or that it was wrong. It''s so odd because all the documents were supposedlyplete." Nate caught his breath and said in a half-joking tone, "It went smoothly for me-so smoothly that they sent me right back. They called to say I had missing documents, and now we can''t proceed to the next step."


    "Do you think it''s because ourpany is small, they''re deliberately stalling us?" Cody asked as he looked at the two.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "There''s nothing we can do about it. That''s the downside of a smallpany. We have to make a few more trips," Nate said. wiping his sweaty face, which was as red as a steaming furnace.


    It was only May, but when the sun was out at lunchtime, it still got really hot.


    Nate gulped down half a bottle of water.


    Ophelia had just entered thepany when she overheard their conversation. Her voice was heard even before she stepped in. "You all have worked hard," she said.


    As soon as the three saw Ophelia, they all put down what they were holding and walked over, not as casually as before.


    Ophelia was wearing a high-quality khaki shirt and straight-cut pants. Even in t shoes, she exuded an aloof and tall presence, giving people the feeling of looking up to her.


    Somehow, after seeing her, the three, who were a bit restless and anxious because of confusion, gradually calmed down, especially Nate and Cody They greeted, "Ms. Spencer."


    "Tell me exactly what''s going on." Ophelia got straight to the point.


    Nate and Cody took turns exining the whole morning''s events to Ophelia, leaving out no details.


    Dan, listening from the side, rubbed his chin and thought for a moment. He said, "I think I''ve figured it out"


    All three of them turned to Dan.


    Dan said, "It must be that ourpany hasn''t built good rtions with the government departments. There are lots of hidden rules here." ...with


    Dan looked quite shrewd. He was about the same height as Opliclia and was the kind of person who woulde up with new ideas as soon as his eyes moved.


    "You know, that might actually be true, Cody said, pping his thigh.


    Nowadays, if one wanted to get something done, one really need some connections. Especially when dealing with these people from the government. Without connections, no one was going to help. "Ms. Spencer, this is your first time starting a real estatepany, isn''t it?" Dan asked, phrasing it like a question but with a confident tone.


    Ophelia had no choice but to admit, "Yeah."


    Dan said. "That''s right, when you''re in a higher position, you''ve got the power. If you don''t have connections and don''t maintain good rtions with them, it will be hard to move forward.


    "Any dy could set you back ten days or two weeks, and these two plots? Forget it. We might not start construction until the end of the year" He added inside, And that''s a conservative estimate"


    Ophelia felt Dan had a point. She nned to take all the necessary documents in the afternoon and visit Urban Development Bureau personally to figure out what was going on


    If it was really because they were a small, unknownpany being treated differently, then it would take some effort. In the afternoon, Ophelia, along with Cody, headed to the Urban Development Bureau in the southern district. Dennis, sitting on the couch and sipping coffee, casually remarked, "Didn''t youe here this morning? I told you your paperwork isn''tplete. Thatnd plot can''t be developed properly. There''s nothing I can do even if youe to me!" Ophelia said, "Mr. Miller, I know the problem lies with us, which is why we''re here to ask you exactly what paperwork we need to begin development?" She smiled, radiating a rxed aura that eased those around her.


    Dennis nced at Ophelia a moment longer, then he quickly looked down and took another sip of coffee. He said, "I told you you need a feasibility study report,"


    Upon hearing that, Ophelia handed over the feasibility study report. She said, "Mr. Miller, with all the responsibilities you manage daily, it''s normal to overlook something."


    Dennis pursed his lips and swallowed nervously. He said, "I''m not through yet. You also need a project initiation document." Ophelia kept a smile on her face, but it didn''t reach her eyes. She gestured to Cody. Cody promptly handed over the project initiation document with both hands. He said, "Mr. Miller, please take a look."


    Dennis gave a couple of soft coughs.


    Ophelia didn''t n to hand Dennis everything at once, she nned to give him only what he asked for, curious to see what he would say next.


    She observed Dennis closely in front of her. She thought. If he isn''t intentionally giving us a hard time, then pigs might as well fly


    "Okay, just leave it here, and I''ll take a look, Dennis said, not even bothering to give them another proper nce. Not to mention paying attention to the documents scattered on the ded


    Seeing Ophelia and Cody weren''t leaving. Dennis sighed and said. "I have other work. Once the approval goes through, have someone contact you."


    His dismissive behavior suggested he probably didn''t even remember theirpany''s name.


    "Okay," Ophelia said. She didn''t press further and left with Cody


    As soon as they left, Dennis put down his coffee cup. With coffee grounds sticking to his tongue, he spat out angrily. His eyes skimmed over the project ns carelessly as he weighed them in his hand. "Foolish!" he snorted, tossing all the ns into the trash bin.


    The phone on the desk rang. Seeing who was calling. Denis immediately straightened up and answered.


    He said. "Mr. Duncan. Yes, I''ll do as you say. Don''t worry. It is all because she messed up your daughter. Absolutely, when election timees, you''ve got my vote. And then, I''ll be relying on you to support me.


    After leaving the lobby, Cody had been frowning all along. He said, "When I came here this morning, he had the same attitude. This Mr. Miller clearly won''t look at it; it''s obvious he''s trying to suppress us." Ophelia said. "What else can we do? Let''s wait and see. She started thinking of other solutions.


    Cody pressed her lips together, wanting to say something, but hesitated.


    Ophelia said, "If you want to say something, just say it."


    Cody said, "Well, since you say so. Ms. Spencer, did you offend someone?"


    0

 Jilted Bride 208

    0


    COMMENT


    Ophelia''s lips curved upwards in a calm smile. She said, "Maybe She had offended quite a few people over the past six months.


    Cody said, "You noticed, too? Do you know who it is?" He though Ophelia hadn''t caught on yet. But then again, it was so obvious. If even he noticed, there''s no way Ophelia wouldn''t. Colly wondered who was behind the scene. Ophelia didn''t say a word. She came in person to verify her suspicions and gauge the attitude of the people here.


    She wanted to know if it was because they were a smallpany and were being brushed off or if there were other reasons. for the deliberate trouble. Judging from Dennis''s attitude, Ophe could tell it was thetter. Ophelia thought, "When we met in the elevator that day, Cecilia looked at me like she would eat me alive. And who else could pull off something like that if not her?"


    Ophelia gave a carefree smile and said to Cody, "Til handle this. You folks focus on the next step of the work n.


    For some reason, after hearing her words, Cody felt a wave of relief wash over him.


    On the way back, Ophelia called Marilyn.


    She asked, "Mara, among the people who ordered custom gowns after New Year, is there a client with thest name Louis?*Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "I think so, but I can''t really remember. Let me check for you," Marilyn said, holding the phone between her shoulder and ear while typing on herputer. Soon, the client info popped up.


    She said, "Yes, Ophelia, there''s ady named Natalie Louis who ordered a custom evening gown for a birthday party."


    Ophelia said, "Send me her registration details."


    "Okay," replied Marilyn.


    As soon as the call ended, Marilyn quickly sent over the information.


    Cody nced over and asked, "Ms. Spencer, who is this person?"


    Ophelia recognized Natalie as Trent''s wife. Natalie ordered a custom gown right after the New Year. The asion she specified was a birthday party.


    Ordering a custom gown so far ahead of time must mean it was quite an important birthday party.


    After checking Natalie''s information, Ophelia returned from the chat interface to the message page. Her eyes fixed on the Top pinned conversation.


    In the past, when Keh was on business trips, he would call Ophelia asionally. Ever since he started using WhatsApp. he almost feltpelled to share every meal with her. But this time, Keh had been on a business trip for two days and hadn''t reached out to Ophelia yet.


    Ophelia picked up her phone and took a selfie, her smile charming.


    Cody, beside Ophelia, was so stunned his eyes nearly popped out. He thought, ''Does Ms. Spencer have this side to her?''


    Cody asked, "Ms. Spencer, are you investigating who''s been causing trouble behind the scenes?"


    Ophelia replied, "No, I''m sending a WhatsApp message to my husband."


    Cody was speechless. Ite thought, Come on, can you maybe focus on some serious work? Though this was what he thought, he dared not show it on his face.


    Ophelia sent the photo, adding an emoji with a tongue sticking dit. She didn''t know if Keh was asleep at this time. She wanted to call him but was afraid of interrupting his rest.


    When she returned to Rosewood Manor at night, the first thing Ophelia did was call Keh. She thought calling at this time wouldn''t interrupt him.


    But the phone rang until the veryst ring, and no one answered Ophelia thought, ''Is he busy?"


    Meanwhile, in the daytime in Mgia, at the Saint Nox Research and Academic Hospital, Keh had just finished a series of check-ups when Ronin, wearing a whiteb coat, stepped forward and handed him his coat. Ronin said, "Your phone rang


    Keh frowned as he took the suit jacket from Ronin. His ck shirt sleeves were rolled up to his forearms, draped over one side. His long, articte fingers reached into the suit pocket and took out his phone The screen showed a missed callbeled Wife. It was Ophelia.


    softened slightly. His finger hovered over the callba


    Keh''s fierce gaze button, but he couldn''t press it. His heart was filled with an unknown emotion, making him restless. After struggling for a while, he failed to make the call.


    Keh''s long legs were d in ck trousers, and as he stood in the hospital''s pristine white corridor, his dark aura created a striking contrast.


    "If this time you can''t find anything, I''ll tear this ce apart," Keh said. His voice was low and chilling, like that of a devi intent on destruction.


    Ronin raised an eyebrow, one hand in the pocket of hisb coat. He said, "Isn''t it better if nothing''s found? Or do you actually want to uncover something?"


    Keh remained silent, sitting on the sofa in the waiting area. His forearms rested on his spread knees, fingers twirling his phone.


    Effortlessly unlocking the phone, Keh looked at the WhatsApp message from Ophelia. His fingers gently touched her cheek in the photo before pulling back decisively after a while. His eyes, dark as ink, stared intently at Ophelia in the photo, afraid that if he blinked, he''d lose sight of her. He never expected that he would be afraid of losing someone like this. The next day, when Natalie came to La Reverie to try on her dress, Ophelia showed up, too.


    Natalie was well-maintained and still charming. She looked even more elegant and poised after putting on the custom evening gown


    Marilyn showered Natalie withpliments, using a lifetime''s worth of praise, and Natalie couldn''t stop smiling.


    Marilyn helped pack the dress into a gift box while casually asking. "Ms. Louis, whose birthday party are you going to? You Look so dressed up, it must be someone very important, right?" Natalie was over forty, and even though she took good care of herself, she was usually addressed as Mrs. Louis when she


    went out


    It was the first time she was repeatedly called Ms. Louis, which made her feel several years younger. Naturally, her mood improved. 10:14 Fri, Nov 22


    Natalie said, "It''s very important, mainly for my husband, since the birthday party of the retired mayor."


    "Are you married?" Marilyn asked. She looked at Natalie in disbelief, her eyes wide open.


    Natalie covered her mouth and chuckled. She said, "You''re quite the sweet talker. Not only am I married, my son is already in high school."


    Marilyn said. "Really? I never would''ve guessed. Ms. Louis, you must be joking. How can someone so young have a son already?"


    Natalie, in a good mood, chatted with Marilyn a bit more.


    After Natalie left happily, Marilyn let out a long breath and went into the office. She said, "Ophelia, your trick really worked. How did you know she liked beingplimented like that?" Ophelia said, "No one dislikes hearingpliments. Did you find out what you needed?"


    Marilyn replied. "Yeah, she said the party''s this Saturday night at the ¨¦lys¨¦es Hotel for the former mayor''s birthday. Ophelia. are you going to join them?"


    Ophelia let out a forced chuckle. She needed to be qualified to attend, after all. She just wanted to find a chance to meet Trent.

 Jilted Bride 209

    Saturday, at the Elys¨¦es Hotel, Ophelia was waiting at the hotel trance early


    With a lollipop in her mouth, she


    Shezily leancil against the driver''s seat, with a long gift box on the passenger se looked up to see Eric on the street corner, happily sipping on arge smoothie. It was quiterge.


    Ray had one hand in his pocket, holding a cigarette between his fingers. He asked. "Happy now? Acting like a kid content with just a bucket of smoothies. Don''t you chase after anything? Ene thought. Chase after? As long as I am being chased, why wish for it?''


    Lam


    He replied, "And what''s your goal? To smoke yourself to death? He nced at Ray, his obsidian eyes as innocent and curious as a child''s


    Ray shouted, "You little beat! Are you cursing me?" He raised a hand to hit Eric, but Eric swiftly dodged it.


    "Do you think I let you hit me for nothing?" Eric asked as he took a big sip of his smoothie. His cheeks bulged with cream. his handsome face radiating youthful charm.


    "You still haven''t said what you are chasing after, Eric said as he looked at Ray with curiosity.


    Ray stubbed out his cigarette and was momentarily unsure about his life''s goals. After thinking for a while, he finally said. "My goal is once I''ve earned enough money, I''ll buy a big house by the beach and maybe get a dog." "And find a wife?" Eric suggestedBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ray frowned and said, "Why would I want a wife? Isn''t lifeplicated enough already? Besides, I''m used to being alone."


    Eric replied, "Fine."


    Ray said, "What''s your attitude? Are you looking for a fight?"


    At this time, a few unassuming cars started arriving at the hotel entrance. Many people got out of the car. Their upants looked as if they were just there for a casual meal, each holding something in their hands. Ophelia immediately noticed the cars belonging to Natalie and Trent. She picked up the items from the front passenger seat and stepped out of the car.


    Ophelia called, "Mr. Louis, please stop for a moment."


    Trent paused his steps, causing Natalie to stop as well, both turning to look toward the voice.


    Natalie said, "It is you, Ms. Spencer. Honey, this is the designer I mentioned; the evening gown I''m wearing was crafted by her."


    With no expression, Trent''s shrewd eyes assessed Ophelia, obviously evaluating her. He didn''t need to guess how Ophelia found out about this ce.


    "Ms. Spencer, is there something you need?" Trent asked in a quite blunt tone, if not entirely cold.


    Ophelia said, "You know, it''s not the best time to talk. Find me when you have a chance. I just happened to find an authentic piece by Raphael, and I heard you''ve been wanting to gift one to the former mayor." Ophelia


    respectfully presented the long, red-patterned gift box with both hands.


    Trent lowered his eyes and nced at the gift box. He was silent for a moment. Then he said, "Come inside with me. Whether you can make a good impression is up to you. I''m not the kind of person who likes to owe favors."


    10:14 Fri, Nov 22 a B.


    Chapter 209.


    The two exchanged nces. Ophelia smiled slightly and replied "Okay"


    In a duel between masters, everything wasmunicated through their eyes.


    Only Natalie waspletely in the dark,


    Trent was very cautious. And Ophelia had already anticipated this.


    88%


    Trent could neither ept nor dare to ept such an expensive painting worth millions. But bringing Ophelia inside made a difference, as she could deliver it for him.


    Using her hand. Trent could give the masterpiece to the former mayor and still im it was from him.


    That way, if anything went wrong with the painting or any issues came upter, he could shift the me to Ophelia without suffering consequences.


    Aside from being sly and cunning, Ophelia couldn''t think of any other words to describe Trent.


    The banquet hall was modest and quite simple, aligning with the standard for political gatherings-nothing extravagant. nothing wasted.


    There were eight tables in total, each seating eight people, all arranged by rank


    Ophelia had no seat and had to stand on the sidelines like a server, ready to present the gift. asionally, someone would mistake her for a server and order her around.


    At the door, Cecilia came in arm in arm with Harris. And she instantly spotted Ophelia standing there. The smile on her face vanished instantly as she transformed into a hen ready to fight at any moment.


    Cecilia said, "Dad, look, it''s Ophelia. How can she be here? She''s like a ghost that won''t disappear."


    Harris nced over, his face emotionless. He remarked, "She has some skills."


    Cecilia asked, "Why are you praising her?" She was about to explode with anger. She thought, What skills can she have? Isn''t it all thanks to men with skills?


    Harris said, "Stay calm. Who cares how she got here? Haven''t you always wanted to get even for what happened on the yachst time?" He lowered his voice, a friendly look on his face but with cunning glinting in his eyes. He added, "This isn''t the business world. In business, she has the Carnegie family backing her, but that''s not the case in politics."


    Harris thought, "Even if there are consequencester, there is no evidence. We could make it a little spat between kids. How could it escte into something bigger?


    Cecilia''s eyes lit up, thinking, ''Exactly! Isn''t this the perfect chance? Finally, I could have my revenge. That wretch made me lose so much face. She has to make her pay today. Now, there''s no one to back her up. The thought of revenge brought an excited look to Cecilia''s perfectly made-up face. She thought, ''She delivers herself right


    to the door!


    Ophelia felt a gaze on her. She turned her head, and precisely met the eyes of Cecilia,


    Ophelia''s eyes were so piercing that even from a distance, they radiated hostility, making Cecilia''s heart tighten involuntarily. She swallowed a lump in her throat for no reason


    Cecilia thought, "Why am I feeling guilty? It should be that wretch who should be scared


    Cecilia deliberately walked past Ophelia, bumping her shoulder on purpose, her eyes filled with defiance.


    888%%


    Ophelia ignored Ceci, She knew that Cecilia had grown up wibout a mother. And wherever Harris went, he would bring Cecilia along with him.


    To outsiders, Harris seemed like a good father, portraying an image of doting on his daughter and staying faithful to his deceased wife. He had not remarried for years, earning the admiration of many.


    But only a few knew that Harris had two other children elsewhere, one of whom was even older than Cecilia,


    Harris was not the doting dad or the devoted widower that people thought he was. It was all just an act he put on


    This scandal would be exposedter by online news. It even involved arge amount of embezzled funds. And Ophelial wasn''t clear about the rest.


    So many things were bound to happen sooner orter. Ophelia didn''t need to do anything and didn''t want to waste her time on them.


    The party was quite simple; the former mayor was honest and upright. He wouldn''t have wanted a birthday party if it weren''t for these people organizing it. He knew their ns better than anyone.


    The gift-giving was very subtle, but when Ophelia''s painting was unveiled, the former mayor''s eyes lit up. It was clear he truly liked it.


    Seeing the former mayor ept it, Trent, who had been silent before, came over and praised the painting. Ophelia went along with it and graciously gave all the credit to Trent.


    When the dinner was halfway through, the former mayor made an excuse to leave. The atmosphere at the banquet became rxed, yet there was an underlying sense of corruption. Cecilia got up and walked towards Ophelia, holding a ss of red wine.


    1


    0

 Jilted Bride 210

    Ophelia was talking with Trent. Trent was in a good mood, so he chatted with Ophelia a bit more. He said, "It''s best for young people not to be too impulsive. You never know when you might upset someone without realizing it" Ophelia replied. Thanks for the advice, Mr. Louis.


    Trent nodded at her reply. He thought. Talking with intelligent people saves a lot of energy


    Earlier, Cecilia asked Trent for a favor. But Trent was a high-ranking official; he couldn''t lower his own value to help with such trivial matters. So he refused.


    Yet that very evening, after he refused, the documents that required Harris''s approval were returned. It was an obvious hint.


    Trent was not worried at the moment, but if Harris became mayor, his life could be difficult. He came by today to see if he could swing the mayor''s seat.


    In politics, everything was connected. One false move and one could lose it all.


    "Let''s leave it at that for now. Come to my office next Monday, and we can discuss it further, Trent gave a series of numbers and said, "Call me when you arrive." "Okay." Ophelia nodded.


    Besides the matters of thepany''s two properties, she was more interested in learning about the redevelopment of the shims, but this wasn''t the right ce to discuss it.


    She was not trading a painting for a favor. Never made a losing deal; that was what Keh Sinir taught her. Ophelia didn''t like this kind of event and hadn''t nned to stay long. Just as she was about to leave, she identally bumped into Cecilia, who was holding a wine ss.


    Ophelia''s eyes fell on the half-full ss of red wine. She thought, Is she going to get revenge on me?


    Cecilia said, "You are standing here all night like a waiter. You must be tiring." She swirled the wine in her ss, giving Ophelia a challenging look from the corner of her eye.


    Ophelia replied, "None of your damn business. She kept a calm expression, not bothered to respond to Cecilia.


    Cecilia said, "Of course it''s my business. Someone like you from the slums, how dare youe to a ce like this? What if you''ve got some disease and spread it to us?"


    Her voice was intentionally raised, drawing everyone''s attention.


    "What? Slums? Cecilia, who are you calling someone from the slums?" asked an anxious manager who knew Cecilia.


    "I''m talking about her. Shees from a ce like the slums in the Gloomhaven. Didn''t they say people from there carry all sorts of viruses?" Cecilia said, pinching her nose as if she smelled something bad. Everyone looked Ophelia up and down cautiously, preferring to believe the worst.


    One said. "She is all dressed up, trying to look important; you wouldn''t even know."


    Another person said, "Yeah. You should leave before you ruin our meal."


    Some people nearby also pinched their noses, and suddenly the whole banquet hall was filled with judgmental stares directed at Ophelia. It was like they were looking at something dirty, full of disdain. Chapter 210


    Cecilia said, "Aren''t you leaving yet?" She felt some relief. She added, "Wait a second."


    88%1


    She walked up to Ophelia. With a malicious glint in her eyes. She said, "Let me help you disinfect first. With that, Cecilia threw the ss of red wine at Ophelia.


    Ophelia was ready and quickly moved out of the way. The wine areed through the air and sshed everywhere.


    Cecilia said, "How dare you dodge?"


    "If I don''t dodge, am I supposed just to stand here and let you ssh me?" Ophelia answered smoothly, with not even a hair out of ce.


    At that moment, Harris said, "Cecilia, what are you doing? How can you be so rude to Ms. Carnegie? She''s Mr. Carnegie''s goddaughter after all. Even if she''s from a poor background, you shouldn''t say such things." Harris walked over, pretending he had just been attracted by the noise.


    On the surface, it seemed like he was scolding Cecilia, but his words were clearly aimed at Ophelia. Hisments were dripping with sarcasm, affecting even the Carnegie family.


    This was a crowd filled with political figures. As Trent had said, Ophelia couldn''te off as too aggressive or make too many enenties, or she''d find it hard to progress.


    Ophelia was about to leave when Harris stopped her. He said, "Ms. Carnegie, don''t be in such a hurry. Cecilia, apologize to Ms. Carnegie immediately."


    Harris handed a ss of red wine to Cecilia, and they exchanged a nce.


    Cecilia understood, holding the red wine, and stepped toward Ophelia.


    Harris said, "Here''s the deal, Ms. Carnegie. My daughter acted out of line. I apologize on her behalf. Let me drink to make up for it," He picked up another ss of red wine and drank it all at once. With a smile on his face, Harris seemed easy-going and friendly


    Ophelia lowered her eyes, looking at the ss of red wine Cecilia offered her. She was caught in a dilemma. It was clear they wanted to corner her. If she drank one ss, there would be more toe. If she didn''t Before Ophelia could decide, Cecilia shook her hand as if she identally lost her hold, letting the ss fall onto the carpet, the purple-red liquid gushing out from the ss.


    "What do you mean by that? Are you refusing to show some respect to my father?" Cecilia shrieked.


    Harris''s face darkened immediately, and he mmed the empty wine ss onto the table with a loud thud.


    Among the group, Harris held the highest position and had the potential to be the next mayor of Denex. Everyone else had to pay attention to his mood.


    "Youngdy, you''re in the wrong here. You must not really care about Mr. Duncan," someone chimed in.


    Dennis, who had previously intentionally made things difficult for Ophelia at work, joined in the taunting. He said, "Here''s a solution: Drink all the red wine on the table, and then we''ll let it go."


    There were at least tworge bottles of red wine on the table. They really knew how to make things difficult for someone. Cecilia looked smug, eager to see how Ophelia would handle this. She thought, ''Dad''s tactics are effective as always! Ophelia''s calm smile gave off a mysterious vibe. She looked at Harris with a nonchnt gaze, her words lingering unspoken on her lips.


    Suddenly, the grandth doors swung open, and two rows of bodyguards dressed in ckN?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    poured in.


    Everyone was taken aback. They instinctively stepped back to clear a path, their eyes all turning towards the entrance.


    Kentieth in ck appeared, walking in slowly, like a majestic tiger at leisure. The sound of his leather shoes hitting the floor resonated with each step, leaving a strong impression on everyone.


    He carried an intimidating presence. His powerful aura made the already small banquet hall feel even more constricting. His wless face, perfect from every angle, gradually emerged under the lights.


    His sharp features seemed like they were coated in ice, and his piercing eyes swept over everyone, making them hold their breath.


    Keh asked, "Who dares to give my woman a hard time? Have you thought about how many lives you have?"


    The entire banquet hall fell eerily silent, so quiet one could heara pin drop.


    It was Cecilia''s first time seeing Keh. He was even more handsome than in the photos, making her heart race. uncontrobly and her breath quicken. She thought, "Is he looking at me?''


    Keh''s eyes were cold as they moved past the bothersome Cecilia andnded on Ophelia. He subtly signaled Ophelia with a slight beckon of his finger. He said, "Come here, I''ll back you up." He added inside, ''Stand behind me. I will protect you."


    0

 Jilted Bride 211

    Hearing this familiar andmanding voice, Ophelia felt a deep sense of calm and stability wash over her.


    She put away all her sharp edges and walked towards Keh, standing by his side like a gentlewoman, feeling secure. Her beautiful eyes held nothing but Keh.


    She thought. So what if I am fiery? With him around, it is hard not to be fiery.


    She asked, "Weren''t you supposed to be back tomorrow!"


    "I missed you, I wanted toe back and see you first, Keh said as he tightly held Ophelia''s small hand, looking at her. His dark eyes were like whirlpools, almost pulling her in.


    When Cecilia realized Keh''s gaze wasn''t on her, her eyes were instantly filled with intense jealousy. She thought, "Why Ophelia? What makes her deserving of standing beside Keh


    As soon as Harris saw Keh had arrived, he changed his earlier demeanor and immediately became very ingratiating


    He said, "Mr. Sinir, why didn''t you let us know in advance about your visit? The birthday party is quite modest, we didn''t expect you to honor us with your presence."


    Keh frowned. It felt like the buzzing of flies in his ears, and a hint of irritation flickered between his sharp brows. He nced sideways at Harris, his cold gaze cutting like a knife. He asked, "Tired of being in this position?" Wh-What Harris asked and gulped, his lips dry. He said, "No, Mr. Sinir, I-I didn''t..."


    He didn''t expect Keh toe today. He looked at Ophelia and thought, ''Seriously? Just for a woman!"


    He had heard of Keh''s tactics but had never seen them himself. Just hearing Keh speak sent shivers down his spine, and weakened his heart.


    Rumor had it that Keh was the type of person who didn''t even consider military leaders in Heloria worth acknowledging. As for a mere department head like Harris, Keh was surely thought even less of.


    Harris didn''t dare doubt the truth of those words. Ending his career could happen with just a single sentence from Keh


    Harris exined, "You''ve really misunderstood. I just nicely asked Ms. Carnegie to join me for a drink at the birthday party, with no harm intended. You''ve misunderstood."


    Keh withdrew his gaze from Harris and casually looked around at everyone. He asked, "Who just asked my woman to drink all the wine on the table?"


    The entire banquet hall was so silent one could hear a pin drop.


    The person who just spoke was the same Dennis who used to side with Harris and deliberately make things difficult for Ophelia at work.


    At nearly fifty years old, Dennis wished he could bury his head in the ground, trembling as he wished to draw back. Keh''s sharp gaze instantly fell on Dennis.


    Dennis''s body stiffened, feeling like a hunted prey caught in the headlights.


    "Who gave you the guts?" Keh asked in a leisurely tone.


    Dennis wished he could kneel; Keh''s presence was overwhelmingly powerful, causing cold sweat to trickle down his forehead.


    Fri, Nov


    10:15


    He thought with regret. How am I supposed to know about this woman''s rtionship with Keh? Otherwise, even if threatened with death, 1 wouldn''t have dared treat her this way!


    Sweat was dripping down Dennis''s forehead as he was stared at by Keh who seemed like a living grim reaper. Dennis felt as if his flesh was being sliced bit by bit, and he felt cold from his toes to the tips of his hair. Keh gave Ray a look, and Ray immediately understood. He stepped forward, grabbed Dennis''s cor, and pulled him out roughly.


    Ray thought. No matter what position this person holds, if he doesn''t want to behave, plenty of people can take his ce.


    Two bodyguards approached, each grabbing one of Dennis''s arms and twisting them behind his back.


    Dennis said, "Mr. Sinir, I-I didn''t mean it like that, really, Mr. Sinir, 1..."


    Ray picked up the bottle of red wine from the table and, with his rough hand, pried open Dennis''s jaw, shoving the bottleneck into his mouth and pouring the wine straight down his throat.


    No matter how much Dennis struggled, it was useless. He kept shaking his head, mumbling, "Mmmm..."


    The purplish-red liquid dripped down Dennis''s chin, onto his neck, and then onto his chest, staining his light blue shirt with arge wine stain.


    Everyone there was scared out of their wits by this scene. They thought, This could end in death. Keh is really going too far; after all, he is dealing with a government official so ruthlessly Even if someone thought it was too much, they didn''t dare speak up to stop it, as they had all heard about Keh''s brutal


    tactics.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    After forcing down an entire bottle, Dennis was coughing like crazy, feeling like his lungs and stomach were about to explode. His vision was darkening, and his head was spinning.


    Ray grabbed another bottle of red wine and continued to pour it into Dennis''s mouth in the same way. Before he was even halfway done, Dennis couldn''t hold it in and started puking it all out. The sight of Dennis throwing up was gross. The entire banquet hall stank of a nasty mix of smells.


    "Take him to the hospital for a stomach pump. Keh ordered coldly.


    Two bodyguards dragged the barely conscious Dennis out of the banquet hall


    Everyone looked at Dennis with sympathy, thinking he wouldn''t have an easy time at the hospital,


    "Anyone else?" Keh turned to ask Ophelia beside him.


    Ophelia said, "No one else." She didn''t say this to act saintly; after all, Keh had just returned after several hours of an international flight and came here immediately, likely without resting. Keh said, "If you won''t say, then I''ll just punish everyone."


    As Keh spoke, Cecilia immediately nced at Ophelia, scared that she would be singled out. But Keh immediately noticed her anxious look.


    "Harris, I''ll give you a chance to handle your daughter yourself before I step in, Keh said, his voice as cold as a winter breeze blowing through the banquet hall, reaching everyone''s ears. Harris nced at Cecilia beside him, then at Dennis, who was being dragged out after being forced to drink and felt torn


    He was not willing to let Cecilia fall into Keh''s hands. It would mean the end for her. He had no choice but to take action Chapter 211


    himself. He pulled Cecilia oyer and pped her across the face.


    Cecilia said. "Dad, you, you hit me. She covered her cheek, eyes red with emotion, wondering how things hade to this. In just two seconds, a clear p mark appeared on her face. Harris said. "Apologize to Ms. Carnegie now!"


    Cecilia looked at Harris in shock.


    "Apologizel" Harrismanded. He lowered his voice, regretting indulging Cecilia. He thought. If she hadn''t foolishly provoked Ophelia, none of this would be happening today! Cecilia shouted, "I won''t. I don''t want to apologize!" She covered her face and stormed out. But she was stopped by the bodyguards after just a couple of steps.


    The next moment, a snap echoed throughout the banquet hall. Cecilia''s wailing immediately followed, heart-wrenching.


    Harris called, "No! Cecilia...


    In just a few seconds, Cecilia''s arm was forcefully broken by the bodyguard.


    Ophelia felra shiver just from hearing it, but her face remained calm, mirroring Keh''s expression next to her.


    Harris urgently held Cecilia, whose face waspletely drained of color, trying to take her to the hospital. The bodyguards were still blocking them.


    Harris asked, "Mr. Sinir, what exactly do you want?"


    Keh replied, "What do I want? Ask my woman if she agrees you to go."


    Harris looked at Ophelia and said, "Ms. Carnegie. I''m apologizing on behalf of my daughter. I promise I''ll keep her in check, and she won''t trouble you again. Please let us go."

 Jilted Bride 212

    COMMENT


    Ophelia showed no reaction, her expression revealing no hint of anger or joy as if she hadn''t seen or heard anything.


    For somehow, she felt Keh''s intentions were more than just supporting her; otherwise, he wouldn''t have had Harris ask for her approval,


    Harris tried to stay patient, but he was nearly grinding his teeth. He asked, "Ms. Carnegie, what do we need to do for you to let us go?"


    Ophelia replied, "Mr. Duncan, what are you talking about? We have no grudges here, so there''s nothing to let go of. The door is right there. Feel free to leave."


    Her smile was bright and innocent, her pure face showing no hint of malice, making her seem very approachable.


    Even if the door was right there, without Keh''s permission, they couldn''t leave.


    "Dad, it hurts so much, Dad, I''m dying.. Cecilia howled, her former arrogance gone.


    Harris looked at Cecilia in his arms, took a deep breath, and humbled himself again. He said, "Ms. Carnegie, I''m sorry. I admit that deliberately targeted yourpany. I was wrong. Please forgive me."


    At first, everyone was confused, but now they got it. They thought, ''So this is the case. It was Harris and his daughter who has started the trouble, no wonder. They deserved the scolding they got." After a brief silence, Harris still hadn''t received Ophelia''s permission to leave.


    Ophelia looped her arm through Keh''s, talking to him softly. "Honey, can we go home?"


    Keh''s intimidating aura from earlier quickly disappeared, his eyes now filled with gentle warmth. He replied, "Sure, let''s go home."


    Under everyone''s gaze, the two left the banquet hall, followed by all the bodyguards in the room.


    Only then did Harris quickly take Cecilia to the hospital.


    After tonight, almost everyone in Denex''s political circles, from minor roles to major positions, knew about Ophelia.


    On Monday, Cody and Nate were out again with documents going around for approvals.


    Just as they arrived at the entrance of the Urban Development Bureau, Nate let out a long sigh, I wonder how they''re going to make things hard for us this time."


    With his round belly, Nate couldn''t see the tips of his shoes as he climbed the steps. With each step he took, his mood grew heavier.


    Cody said, "Just think of it as losing weight. Noints. We earn more than others. Besides, Ms. Spencer treats us wel. We should put in some effort."


    Although Cody was also a bit unwilling, he was handling it better than Nate.


    "You make a good point, Nate said, taking a deep breath. As they entered the lobby, they saw Dennis and two of his subordinates standing there as if they were expecting someone important. Nate and Cody exchanged looks of confusion and nced back at the same time. They didn''t see anyone significant when they arrived.


    "Are you from SN Estate?" Dennis asked first. He took a few steps forward and asionally rubbed his stomach. Although hisplexion wasn''t great, his smile remained steady. Dennis felt seeing Nate and Cody was even more exciting than seeing a pile of cash.


    Cody replied. "Yes, we are." He turned his head, meeting Nate''s eyes. They both silently asked each other, "What''s going on?"


    They wondered why Dennis, who usually gave them the cold shoulder, was being so polite today. Did he take the wrong medicine?


    Dennis said, "Wee, wee. Let''s discuss this in my office. Then, he turned to ask his assistant to make some coffee for the guests and handled the paperwork quickly.


    Dennis turned back to Nate and Cody with a polite smile. He said. "Let them do the running around. You two can rest in my office for now." He gestured invitingly.


    Cody and Nate stood there, puzzled. They wondered what exactly was going on.


    Nate and Cody were led to the office looking confused and were even served top-notch coffee. In less than twenty minutes, all their paperwork waspleted, and every stamp they needed was ounted for. Both of them were surprised, thinking. This is incredibly fast!''


    Dennis asked politely. "Are you satisfied!"


    Nate and Cody nodded, feeling slightly overwhelmed. They thought, ''Can we even dare to say we aren''t satisfied? What exactly is going on?"


    Nate and Cody came out with their stamped documents, and Dennis even escorted them to the door. Just as they came out, they ran into Ophelia at the entrance.


    Cody asked, "Ms. Spencer, what brings you here today personally?"


    Ophelia replied, "I have other matters to attend to."


    With a ttering smile, Dennis said, "Oh my, Ms. Spencer, you are here. Mr. Louis is waiting for you upstairs. Yourpany''s documents have all been approved. "Next time, call me for these matters, and I''ll have someone deliver whatever you


    need."


    Cody and Nate were both dumbfounded. They thought, ''His attitude is even warmer than when meeting his own parents.


    ''Ms. Spencer is incredible to have such a connection with the director. No wonder Mr. Miller''s attitude changes so drastically. But this is a bit too bootlicking.


    Cody and Nate silently decided that they were definitely sticking with Ophelia


    "Alright, with the documents finalized, let''s move on to the next step, Ophelia instructed.


    Cody and Nate nodded in unison and replied, "Yes, Ms. Spencer


    Once the two left, Ophelia went straight upstairs to Trent''s office


    "You''re here, have a seat, Trent said. He had been waiting for a long time, and had already prepared a pot of coffee.


    He said, "I''ve instructed my team to handle the documents. What else do you need to talk to me about?"


    Even if Ophelia didn''te today, after the birthday party event, everything would likely be much easier to deal with. So, hering in person definitely meant there was something else to discuss. 10:15 Fri, Nov


    Ophelia sat on the sofa with a smile. She said, "Mr. Louis, you are so smart, why don''t you guess?"Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Trent chuckled softly. He picked up the antique brooch and poured coffee into Ophelia''s cup. He said, "A painting worth over a million, you surely want more than just that in return. Go ahead, I don''t beat around the bush" Ophelia replied, "Alright then, I''ll be straightforward. I want to develop the slums."


    As soon as Ophelia uttered thosest words, Trent''s hand, which was pouring coffee for her, paused for a moment, almost losing grip of the pot.


    Trent asked, "What? You want to develop the slums?" He lifted his eyelids and looked at Ophelia. He pressed his lips together and shook his head in resignation. His expression looked as if he''d just heard a big joke. He said. "If you''re here for that, you might as well leave."


    Ophelia replied, "I just want to know what needs to be done for that area to be developed."


    Trent sighed and set down the coffee pot. He thought, ''If I had known this was her n, I surely wouldn''t have taken the painting as a favor. This is a big problem."


    He exined patiently. "Why do you think a city would leave a ce undeveloped? There''s obviously a reason for it. Trying to change that is unrealistic.


    "I know you came from there. Wouldn''t it be better to live peacefully without worrying about that ce? Thinking about it doesn''t lead anywhere. Stop now, or you''ll end up getting hurt."


    He added inside, ''Not even Keh could help at that point.


    Ophelia replied, "What if I insist on going down this path?"

 Jilted Bride 213

    Ophelia spoke with determination, a stubborn look in her clear eyes.


    Trent turned his head and met Ophelia''s gaze, feeling oddly intimidated by whatever it was in her eyes. He found that the strong aura from Ophelia was somewhat simr, but he couldn''t quite ce where he had seen this before. He sighed and gave in. He said, "Okay, as long as Keh agrees to your development. I have no objections."


    Trent''s words caught Ophelia by surprise. She thought, "His tone is so confident as if it is obvious that Keh won''t approve.


    Trent added, "If Keh agrees to your development, then I have nothing else to add. He thought. "If anything goes wrong, someone else will take the me; it wont be my concern.


    Meeting Trent''s crafty gaze, Ophelia furrowed her brow. She tried to read something from his expression, but saw nothing.


    Trent continued, "You only need to submit a feasibility report for thend development and the seawater test data. If it''s approved, you can start the development"


    This was exactly what Ophelia wanted to hear. She said. Thank you, Mr. Louis


    Trent sighed. He thought. She is too naive. It isn''t that straightforward. But perhaps it''s for the best; by the time she finishes all this, I might not be in this position anymore. What happens then won''t concern him" After leaving the Urban Development Bureau, Ophelia received a call from Keh.


    Keh asked, "Where are you! Come to the Sinir Group"


    Ophelia replied, "Alright" She rarely questioned Keh''s intentions. If free, she''d go wherever he wanted her to be.


    At the top floor of the Sinir Group Keh sat on the spacious leather couch, one hand supporting his forehead as he rubbed his temples.


    "Mr. Sinir, would you like to take a break: You''ve been pulling two all-nighters in the office since you got business trip" Mark suggested from the sile. He couldnt figure out what was happening with Keh. back from you


    ?


    your


    "When did it be your job to meddle in my business! Get out Keh snarled, feeling an unexpected irritation.


    Mark was taken aback by the reprimand. For somewhat, he felt Keh had be much softer with his criticismstely.


    However, just as this thought appeared, he saw Keh lift his gelids. He had a deep crease from the corner of his eyes to hus temples, his dark pupils like the turbulent waves of a deep sea Mark back went rigid, and he was out of Keh''s sight in less than a second, as if his feet had wings.


    Once Mark left, Keh picked up the phone and dialed a number. Then, he pressed it to his ear. He asked, "How much time do I have left?" He closed his eyes as if waiting for a verdict


    On the other end of the line, Konn''s voice came through He said. "What are you talking abour? It''s not that serious, Keh. Now is not the time to be stubborn, you need to have the surgery soon." Keh was irritated the moment he heard this, and darkness once again clouded his eyesN?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Ronin called "Hello? Keh


    Keh said. "No one can know about this. You understand the consequences if they do." Chapter 213


    Before Ronin on the other-end could say anything, the call was abruptly ended.


    Just then, Ophelia pushed the door open, holding two cups of coffee.


    Keh tightened his grip on the phone. He asked, "Has work been keeping you busytely?"


    "It''s fine." Ophelia replied as she ced the coffee on the marble dining table nearby.


    She continued, "Not really busy. I''ve got professionals handling most things. Chloe manages things at thepany, so I mainly deal with a few design projects and asionally teach a couple of sses at Denex University." She thought, ''It''s quite manageable!


    Keh said, "Starting today,e work at Sinir Group. You can choose either the position of Vice President or President."


    Ophelia was confused.


    Keh''s words left no room for negotiation.


    Ophelia thought, "It is pretty sudden. Why would he suddenly make me the CEO? If I be the CEO, what about him?"


    Keh asked, "What? Don''t you want to work with your husband?"


    Ophelia replied, "It''s not that. I''m just not sure why." She thought, ''If so, wouldn''t I be under his watch all the time, unable to do what I want?"


    The fleeting emotion in her eyes didn''t escape Keh''s notice, He sat on the table, one leg resting on the ground while the other was bent on the table, and he beckoned to Ophelia with a finger. "Come here," he said. Ophelia walked over to Keh.


    Keh said, "Let me hold you." His deep voice had a hint of weariness.


    Ophelia didn''t say a word. She just walked over and embraced Keh. She let him bury his head in her neck.


    After a long time, just as Ophelia felt her right shoulder going numb, Keh''s soft voice echoed in her ear. He said, "Do whatever you want, I got your back."


    "What?" Ophelia asked. She was confused by his sudden remark. She wondered, "Do I hear him correctly?


    Keh straightened up. His brow slightly raised with natural confidence. He softly ruffled Ophelia''s hair and asked, "What''s up?"


    "You know what I want to do, are you sure?" Ophelia asked. She blinked her pretty eyes and looked at Keh seriously. Keh replied, "Yeah"


    Ophelia thought, ''Something''s not right with him. Her eyes fell on Keh''s ck phone She thought, ''Who has he be calling earlier? Who did he meet while he was on his business trip? Why does he seem different now that he is back? The past two nights, he hasn''t been dingy and has been workingte at the office. And now he''s agreeing to my slum development n An unusual feeling grew inside her. She asked, "Why did you have mee to the Sinir Group?"


    Keh said. "If not here, how do you n to do what you want? You can choose the CEO or the Vice President position Ophelia said, ''T''ll be the CEO, so what about you?" 10:15 Fri, Nov 22


    Chapter 213-


    2K 87%


    Keh remarked inside. She spoke confidently, without even considering the Vice option, she picked CEO right away.


    He replied, "Til be the Vice President or your assistant; whatever makes my dear wife happy, we''ll do it that way." He added. inside, I won''t hesitate even if I have to dismantle the entire corporation! Keh lifted Ophelia''s chin. Gazing at her lush lips, his Adams apple above his tie moved involuntarily. He said, "TII do whatever youmand."


    Those words came from Keh''s mouth with an indescribable sensuality and allure. Especially thest two words. He was like an irresistible male enchantress.


    Ophelia tugged at Keh''s tie, meeting his eyes. She thought, He doesn''t even know how much I missed him.


    ''Since he returned, he''s been going straight to the office. I might have thought he was meeting another woman on those business trips if I didn''t trust him.


    Ophelia said, "Then, former CEO, please take me on a tour of your lounge-no, I mean mine."


    Their eyes met. Ophelia was like a lively little fox. Even faced with this big bad wolf, she was no longer afraid.


    The lounge was a duplex with direct ess to the rooftop.


    Ophelia was sincerely exploring, but just as she reached the corner of the stairs, Keh pressed her against the wall.


    A torrent of kisses rained down upon her. They consumed her breath more intensely than ever. It was as if Keh wanted to devour herpletely.


    Equally captivated, Ophelia responded more fervently than ever before. She asked, "Keh, what''s gotten into you?" She could clearly see the emotions churning in Keh''s eyes, slowly spreading.

 Jilted Bride 214

    COMMENT


    Ophelia gently held Keh''s face in her hands. Her eyes met Keh''s intense and somewhat wild gaze, with a hint of red


    in his eyes.


    Her heart tightened as if a wound had been torn open, making hard to breathe. She asked, "What happened?"


    They were in a fairly narrow rooftop passageway, warm light highlighting the sides of their faces.


    Keh rested his forehead against Ophelia''s, using his thumb to caress her cheek gently. He said, "I miss you so much. I am almost losing my mind."


    Before Ophelia could say another word, Keh pulled her into his embrace, his gentle kisses falling again, leaving her breathless.


    Downstairs, they could still hear the secretary''s footsteps.


    It was their first time in a ce like this. The intense feeling gradually numbed Ophelia''s logical mind.


    With her slender hands on his shoulders, Ophelia leaned in close to Keh and whispered. "Let''s go to the lounge." Ophelia trembled from Keh''s kiss, her mindpletely nk. Keh replied. "Okay, I''ll do as you say. He agreed verbally but didn''t follow through.


    Ophelia bit down hard on Keh''s shoulder. Her cheeks flushed, ring at him in exasperation. That was when he was willing to change positions


    In the spacious gray-toned lounge, the curtains were drawn tightly closed, and the lights were on inside.


    Beside the soft, tousled bed, Ophelia sat buttoning up a shirt and picked up Keh''s watch from the nightstand to check the time. It was already afternoon, and she hadn''t even had lunch yet. Just as she started feeling hungry, she heard Keh''s footstepsing up the stairs.


    Keh was carrying a tray with elegant dishes arid had changed into a dark blue suit, looking very formal. But all it made Ophelia think of was the phrase a wolf in sheep''s clothing. Keh set the dishes on the ck cherry wood dining table. He said, "Your favorite home-style cooking."


    Ophelia sighed and asked, "Where are my clothes? Don''t tell me must wear your shirt to the board meeting this afternoon."


    She wasn''t wearing anything underneath. On top, she wore Keh''s ck shirt with two buttons undone, showing part of her corbone. The ck made her skin look even fairer. Seeing Ophelia dressing like that, Keh''s eyes darkened. "Do you think I would let you dress like that to meet those old folks?" Keh said, suddenly feeling a pang in his chest. He thought, ''What if, in the future, I am not around and she dresses like that in front of other men?"Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    His hands clenched, knuckles turning white. His expression was as dark as storm clouds and his breath caught in his throat.


    "You can''t dress like this again," Keh sternly warned. His eyes were fiercely determined.


    Ophelia was speechless. She thought, ''Am I supposed to be naked then?''


    There were no clothes of Ophelia''s here, so she reached for Keh''s shirt, which happened to cover her thighs 10:15 Fri, Nov 22


    "Did you hear me?" Kemethasked. His tone was intense and insent as if he wouldn''t stop until she agreed.


    Ophelia replied. "Sure."


    Hearing her agree, Keh felt only half of the tension in his chest ease. He said, "Let''s eat first; I''ve already had some clothes sent over." Ophelia replied, "Okay." She sat on the sofa. Her legs pressed tightly together, feeling a bit insecure.


    87%1


    She could only lean forward slightly to cover her exposed legs. However, her neckline was quite revealing when she lowered her head to eat.


    Keh said, "If you''re not tired yet, we can continue. Don''t give me that unsatisfied look to tempt me, I don''t need any tempting.


    Ophelia looked up at Keh. Her pink, slightly swollen lips held forks, creating an alluring sight. Following Keh''s gaze, she nced down at her chest and quickly covered it with her hand. She exined. "I identally tore the button off. It happened to be the second one. She was in a bit of a rush earlier so she


    notice it. Thinking back to just a moment ago, Ophelia''s cheeks blushed again.


    Keh thought, ''She is now even more alluring. I can''t go further. If I keep looking at her, I might not be able to leave


    "Eat up. I''ve arranged a meeting for you," Keh said as he stood up. When he turned, Ophelia could clearly see his Adam''s apple move.


    Shortly after, a female secretary brought over a few custom-tailored women''s suits. Clearly, these suits were custom-made alongside Keh''s, with the same subtle patterns and materials


    Ophelia chose a deep blue pinstripe suit, finding the wide-leg designfortable.


    About ten minutester, Ophelia finished freshening up and came down from the lounge.


    She rarely wore high heels, but today, they boosted her presence to a confident height.


    She thought, ''After all, this is a major corporation, not my small business."


    Mark was holding some documents, initially intending to give them to Keh. However, when Ophelia reached out her hand, Mark handed the report to her without hesitation, unwittingly overlooking Keh beside him.


    It was Ophelia''s first time reviewing argepany''s financial statements and project documents. She had expected much. data from such a giant corporation, but it was beyond what she imagined.


    She thought, ''No wonder Keh was overwhelmed when he first took over the Sinir family!


    Seeing the slight frown on Ophelia''s face, Keh felt a sharp pain, like a needle piercing his heart. Even though he felt bad, he knew he had to do it.


    "Let''s go to the meeting room and have them report to you," Keh said as he stood up and buttoned his suit jacket.


    Ophelia hadn''t finished reading the report when Keh firmly took her hand. Even in high heels, she barely reached his shoulder.


    Keh walked at a steady pace as if he was intentionally amodating her heels today,


    Mark and his secretary stood on either side, pushing open the conference room doors.


    Therge conference room was packed with people, more than Ophelia expected. The room was filled with an impressive crowd, including the heads of various departments. 10:15 Fri, Nov 22


    Seeing Keh, everyone greeted, "Mr. Sinir As the group stood up, their gaze moved from Keh to Ophelia next to


    him.


    Just seeing their matching suits was enough for everyone to understand their rtionship.


    However, none knew why Keh had called them here today. Keh''s temper was the hardest to understand, and guessing was pointless.


    Nobody dared to move before Keh took his seat.


    Keh nced at Ophelia. She showed no signs of nervousness or hesitation. She stood with her back perfectly straight, exuding a naturally cool aura, Keh felt her vibe somewhat familiar. Keh took Ophelia''s hand and led her to the front spot.


    What no one expected was that Keh didn''t sit but instead pulled out a chair for Ophelia next to him to take the main


    seal.:


    The rest of the group didn''t understand what was going on,


    but none dared to make wild guesses.


    Mark moved a chair and ced it behind Ophelia. Keh sat down, leaningzily against the back of the chair, holding Ophelia''s hand in his palm.


    As the couple settled into their seats, the others gradually sat down, one after another.


    After the brief sound of chairs scraping the floor, the entire conference room turned silent, with only the sound of breathing remaining.


    Ophelia found herself somewhat admiring Keh. She was impressed by his management of people. Not a single person dared to whisper a word.


    "Let me introduce everyone," Mark said into the microphone, addressing the attendees, "Thedy in the middle will officially start as the CEO of the Sinir Group from today." Everyone present was surprise. They thought, "What?"

 Jilted Bride 215

    COMMENT


    Chapter


    215


    It was only then that other expressions appeared on people''s faces. All eyes turned towards Keh at once, seeking a confirmation from him.


    They wondered, ''Is thepany really changing ownership? Everyone exchanged confused nces. Even so, no one dared to voice any objections.


    A senior regional director asked, "Mr. Sinir, is what Mr. Thompson said true! His eyes were on Ophelia.


    The director thought, Putting this girl in charge of the Sinir Group? What a joke! Is Mr. Sinir just ying around, or is he so eager to please her that he''s willing to hand over such a huge empire? Despite thinking this way, he didn''t show any of it on his face. He knew that if Mark announced this decision in front of everyone, it wasn''t a joke. He just couldn''t figure out why Keh was doing this. "Do you have any objections? Keh asked. His voice was low his sharp gaze cutting towards the regional director.


    The director replied, "No, no problem at all. I am just confirming. We''ll actively cooperate with the new CEO for the transition. That response was impable..


    Ophelia couldn''t help but admire these people. No wonder they had made it to these top positions. However, she admired Keh even more.


    It was clear how ruthless Keh''s management methods were, making these top executives and high-level elites from various fields act as meek as quails before him!


    The director asked, "So, Mr. Sinir, what do we need to do?"


    As the question was asked, Ophelia raised an eyebrow slightly. It felt like they were trying to win her favor through Keh, not taking her seriously. Whenever there was a problem, they still turned to Keh. Keh replied, "I''m not the one you should be asking. As if reading her mind, Keh knew exactly what Ophelia was thinking.


    Everyone''s gaze turned towards Ophelia at the same time.


    Ophelia said, "After the meeting, I''ll have Mark send the work handover details to your respective emails. Today is just to meet everyone. My name is Ophelia Sinir."


    Her introduction was straightforward. Her voice was free of any nervousness or unease, as if she was just chatting. Keh felt pleased yet slightly unfulfilled. It was like an angel and a devil were arguing in his mind. The employees thought Keh was ying a game, so they all cagerly reported their work.


    Even with everyone cooperating, the meeting dragged on from 2 PM to a little after 8 PM.


    At first, they didn''t take Ophelia seriously. But gradually, they realized she spoke clearly and logically, even pointing out details Keh often missed. However, their surprise was short-lived as they figured Keh must have taught Ophelia all that. She just seemed to have learned it quite well.


    Keh raised his hand to check the time but realized he had left his watch in the break room.


    He turned his head, resting it on one hand. His gaze fixed on Ophelia ever since the meeting started. He thought, ''Actually, she can probably do it all without me! 10:15 Fri, Nov 22


    Chapter 215-


    Thinking about it made his heart ache so much that even breathing was difficult.


    He had been repeatedly thinking about these things recently: Ophelia could do well without him, and she could be good


    alone.


    Ophelia turned around, her eyes meeting his as if she was seeking his opinion.


    Only then did Keh move his gaze to the people. He said, "Let''s call it a day for the meeting."


    Everyone tidied their things and left in an orderly manner. Even as they exited the conference room, there wasplete silence; no one dared to say a word. Ophelia didn''t want to praise Keh any


    further.


    Once everyone had left the meeting room, she finally rxed her straightened back. Her back and waist were aching. Suddenly, a big, warm hand ced itself on her waist, gently massaging her. "Are you tired already?" Keh asked.


    After massaging for a while, Keh got up to get Ophelia a ss of water. As she drank, Keh ced his hands on her shoulders, trying to give her a shoulder massage.


    Ophelia almost choked on her drink at Keh''s gesture. She ced he Then, she swallowed the water she had in her mouth.


    hand on top of his as it rested on her shoulder.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ophelia said, I''m fine, not tired. You don''t expect me to manage the Sinir Group forever, do you?" She still felt a bit chueless about her current role.


    ""You don''t like it?" Keh asked.


    Ophelia thought, ''It isn''t about whether I like it; I genuinely don''t know anything."


    If she hadn''t picked up a few things before to bluff her way into managing thepany, she would have surely been exposed as clueless.


    Even so, she wasn''t sure if these people had already seen through her and were just ying along with her act. She was just a paper tiger, all bluster. She wouldn''t dare to show off in front of those pack of sly old foxes. Keh said, "You''ve been engaging with the team of Sinir Estate to learn about their work. Don''t you want to develop your slum area quickly? Sitting in this position allows you to do whatever you wish." "But I just want to be with you," Ophelia confessed.


    In this life, all she wanted was to be with Keh. She agreed to work there just to have a good reason to be near him every day. Her career drive wasn''t that strong.


    "What should I do, Keh? I''m bing more attached to you every day." Ophelia said. She stood up, taking advantage of the empty room, and jumped into Keh''s arms.


    Her soft little face nestled against his neck like a clingy kitten. The cold demeanor she had just now vanished, and she returned to being the reliant little woman he knew.


    Keh''s eyes were stormy. It felt like his heart was being torn apart and pieced back together. Every crack let in the chill wind, gradually cooling his blood. He gently brushed his hand across Ophelia''s back. He thought, "She has more dreams than just developing the slums. She said she wanted to be with me. She is bing


    more attached to me as I am to her.


    Keh hugged Ophelia tightly, wanting her to be a part of him.


    go upstairs and get my slippers?" A sharp look shed in Ophelia''s eyes. She said, "Kennie, my feet are tired. Can you go upstairs and


    "Tired feet? Have you been standing?" Keh asked and frowned, slightly rxing his arms.


    "Aren''t I standing right now? I''m tired. I don''t often wear such high heels, Ophelia replied. Her voice was soft and yful, a charm she had learned somewhere.


    Keh said, "Then I''ll carry you upstairs."


    "Secretary Keh, if you don''t follow my orders, I might have to cut your pay, Ophelia said as she tilted her head, a hint of mischief in her expression.


    Keh thought. Is she using money to pressure me? Well, I have already given her everything I owned.


    "Okay." Keh replied and messed up Ophelia''s hair yfully


    Watching Keh go upstairs, Ophelia Sinir called Mark over


    Mark asked, "Ms. Spencer, what''s up?"


    Ophelia said, "Where did Keh go for this business trip? Who did he meet? I know you might not know, but find out for me." She couldn''t shake the feeling that something was off about Keh''s return this time. Mark swallowed nervously. He wondered, ''How did Ms. Spencer know what I wanted to say?"

 Jilted Bride 216

    Chapter


    216


    Seeing Mark''s silence, Ophelia gave him a cold stare and asked. Is there a problem?"


    Mark stiffened under her gaze. He thought, "This stare feels so familiar. It is like a replica of Mr. Sinir''s


    Ophelia instructed, ''Find out, and don''t let Keh know."


    "What? Are you asking me to betray Mr. Sinir?" Mark asked, s eyes widened as he lowered his voice. His heart skipped at


    beat.


    He thought. "Betraying Mr. Sinir would lead to severe consequences if he found out.


    Ophelia frowned, her gaze towards Mark unfriendly. She said, "This isn''t betrayal. You''ve been by his side longer than I have Haven''t you noticed anything odd about him?"


    Mark thought for a moment. He wondered, ''Does being more gentle count? But it is quite normal. Aren''t all men in love like this?"


    Before Mark could respond, Keh entered the room, holding a pair of slippers.


    Ophelia handed all the documents to Mark and said, "I''ve marked everything. Send them to all the leaders'' emails. Quickly!"


    With thest word, Ophelia stressed her tone, making it clear she was implying something other than what had been mentioned. Mark felt a tingling sensation in his scalp. He replied, "Yes, Ms. Spencer."


    As Mark walked past Keh with the documents, his heart leaped into his throat. Luckily, Keh''s attention was not on


    him.


    Opheliazily ced one hand behind her neck and turned slightly. She asked, "What should we grab to eatter?"


    Keh walked up to Ophelia, crouched down, and gently removed her high heels with his warm hands, slipping her feet into pure white slippers Once both shoes were changed, Keh stood up, and Ophelia in front of him seemed much shorter.


    "Let''s go home, Keh said.


    Seeing the tiny red veins in Keh''s eyes. Ophelia felt only heartache. She replied, "Sure."


    The roses in Rosewood Manor had started to sprout pink buds, swaying in the breeze.


    In the room, Ophelia, dressed in fine quality ck pajamas, sat on the couch by the floor-to-ceiling window with aptop on herp.


    She asked, "So, to develop the slums, I must get approval from the president, right?"


    Keh had just finished his shower and was drying his hair. His grey bathrobe was loosely tied, showing his toned abs and V-line, along with a two-letter tattoo on his left chest.


    He replied. "Yes" He sat down at Ophelia''s feet. He exhaled deeply and nced at Ophelia beside him.


    He added, "It''s been over twenty years since that disaster in the shims. Many people died in it. Do you believe toxic materials were used for thend remation project?" Chapter 210


    Ophelia asked, "What do you mean?"


    286%


    She pulled her legs back and sat up straight. The plot of The Ole Denes suddenly came to mind, giving her goosebumps. Even without Keh saying anything, she seemed to know the answer by looking into his eyes She asked, "So thend remation wasn''t about using toxic materials but dead bodies, right?"


    Ophelia dug her nails into her palm. Her hair stood on end as a hill ran from her toes to the top of her head.


    The book mentioned that in the winter of that year, none of the people who caught a cold came back alive from the hospital.


    Keh lowered his gaze and nodded slightly, silently confirming her answer.


    At that moment, Ophelia finally understood why the slum''s coastline was permeated with a persistent stench and why the people reacted that way when they heard the words redevelop the slums. Keh asked. "Are you still insisting to do so?"


    He told Ophelia all this, hoping she wouldn''t take the risk. He thought she should realize how impossible her n was.


    Ophelia asked. "If it wasn''t thend remation n that caused the disaster, what was it?"


    Previously, she always thought that thend remation project caused the disaster. She never considered that it was the disaster that led to thend remation. Keh said, "This matter goes way back. Back then, when four powerful families ruled Denex, they used many strategies. to control the ports for transportation." Ophelia listened attentively.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Keh continued, "There was an explosion at the Wright family''s factory, releasing toxic gas that caused widespread respiratory infections.


    "It happened during winter, so at first, people just thought it was the flu and didn''t pay much attention. It wasn''t until people started dying from it that everyone became concerned.


    "But by then, it was toote. There wasn''t any effective medicine and the illness progressed very quickly. Once one reached the point of going to the hospital, all one could do was wait for the end." Ophelia asked, "The Wright family?" It was the first time she had heard of this family.


    Keh exined, "Yes, back then, the four families were the Sinir, Wright, Gilmore, and Huxley families. The Sinir family solidified their position by marrying into the Gilmore family: Patrick''s mother is from the Gilmore family. Ophelia thought, ''So that''s how it is; back then there wasn''t the Carnegie and Reyes families yet. This woman from the Gilmore family is Victor''s first wife. No wonder Ronan acknowledges only Patrick as his legitimate heir Keh added, "The Gilmore family was sanctioned back then and fell apart. The Gilmore family is now in the city but doesn''t have the strength topete with the current families.


    Ophelia understood now. Combining what Keh previously mentioned, the four families used various methods to gain control over port transportation


    That meant the Wright family might not be the real mastermind behind this disaster. There could be someone else. But right now, none of that matters anymore.


    Keh continued, "Back in the day, there was an unspoken rule among the four major families whoever could solve this disaster would gain control of all the port''s transportation routes Chapter 216


    Ophelia thought, In the end, it was the Sinir family who gained all the transportation routes. But how did they win?


    Seeing the questions in her eyes, Keh raised an eyebrow, his gaze deep and mysterious,


    He exined, "My mother is the daughter of the Pharmacology Queen, so Victor took advantage of my mother back then" He added inside. After using her, he just abandoned her. Thinking about this, Keh clenched his fists. His expression was dark, struggling to contain his anger.


    Ophelia leaned forward. She ced her hands on Keh''s tense ones.


    Keh smiled bitterly, rxing his grip. He held Ophelia''s small hands in his palm and asked, "Do you want to develop


    that area?"


    He ced a hand on Ophelia''s head, looking at her seriously. Seeing the determined look in her eyes, he knew nothing he said would change her mind.


    He thought. If making this wish of herse true could cheer her up. It is good


    For a whole week. Ophelia stayed at the Sinir Group and asionally visited Denex University,


    In the spacious office, Ophelia sat in the boss''s chair with a stack of documents needing her signature in front of her. It really felt like going through official reports.


    The atmosphere on the other side waspletely different from hers.


    Keh had his legs casually up on the desk, skillfully twisting a Rubik''s Cube with his fingers. His eyes fixed intently on Ophelia working seriously across from him. His gaze held an unicadable emotion. Before long, Mark pushed the door open and walked in. He said, "Ms. Spencer, here''s what you requested." He ced the oversized Lego set on the desk.


    Keh tilted his chin slightly, a hint of smugness in his eyes. He asked. ''Is it for me?"


    Ophelia replied, "No, it''s for Wyatt. He''s turning five this Saturday. Do you want toe with me? Wyatt likes you." She put down her work and looked up at Keh.

 Jilted Bride 217

    Keh let out a cold chuckle and said, "There are lots of people like me." He added inside, ''Do I go to everyone''s birthday parties?"


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow and walked around the desk. She leaned against it with her hands on the surface, speaking in a mock interrogation tone, "Oh really? How many? Tell me."


    Keh swung his legs down. He used his slender fingers to solve the Rubik''s Cube. Then, he ced it on the desk, stood up, and walked over to Ophelia.


    le counted them off as he approached her. He said, "There''s Ophelia Sinir, Ophelia Spencer, Elia, Ms. Spencer..


    When he said thest two words, he was standing right in front of Ophelia. With both hands on the table, he trapped her and leaned in close. His lips brushed against her soft lips. He asked, "Are you jealous of all of them?" Ophelia said, "There''s one more person you forgot to mention. Her clear eyes stayed fixed on Keh without blinking.


    Keh asked, "Who?"


    Ophelia replied, "Mrs. Sinir. Your wife."


    Ophelia''s words gave Keh a sudden jolt, his dark eyes holding a mix of unclear emotions.


    Without another word, he grasped her head and captured her lips. He kissed her slowly and passionately. His Adam''s apple bobbed with each kiss, gradually taking all her breath away.


    Luckily, Mark had left the room earlier; otherwise, he would have had to witness their romantic moment.


    In the evening, Chloe carried arge bundle of groceries from the parking garage into the elevator.


    When it reached the first floor, two middle-aged women joined her, also carrying groceries. These two women lived upstairs from Chloe and often ran into her in the elevator.


    "Oh my, Chloe! Did you buy all this by yourself?" one of the women remarked, eyeing the two big grocery bags. She thought, Youngsters these days don''t know how to manage their budget, only buying the expensive stuff. Chloe nudged the groceries closer to her feet. She ordered all groceries from therge supermarket near her office.


    As the elevator doors closed, the other woman said, "Raising a child on your own is tough. You work during the day and take care of the child at night. Maybe try to find a suitable man and remarry, and it will make your life easier. "I have a nephew who''s been married twice but has no kids. I heard it''s because his ex-wife wasn''t a good match. Do you want me to introduce him to you?"


    "No thanks," Chloe replied, her eyes fixed on the numbers rising in the elevator. Her face remained neutral, appearing slightly annoyed.


    The woman kept saying, "My nephew is an exec at a bigpany. He''s more than enough for you; his annual sry is 260.


    thousand dors.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "If you get with him, you can stay at home to take care of the kids and just look after the inws on weekends. It''s much easier than your current work." Chloe ignored them entirely, acting as if they didn''t exist.


    1/3-


    Seeing her silence, the two older women didn''t continue talking.


    When the elevator arrived, Chloe stepped out alone, carrying her groceries.


    She overheard thedies behind her murmuring, "Honestly, she has no sense of what''s good for her. Taking care of a kid on her own, who does she think she can find! Even my nephew might not fancy her "Who does your nephew think he is?" a voice shouted from above Chloe''s head. The voice was directed at thedies in the


    elevator.


    Chloe was briefly stunned before Noah took the weight from her hands.


    Noah said, "You''ve bought so much stuff. Why didn''t you call me? I could''vee down to help out."


    The two women in the elevator exchanged nces and fell silent upon seeing the situation.


    Noah''s striking looks and powerful presence made it hard for anyone to say a word.


    As the elevator doors closed, one woman whispered, "Is that Chloe''s boyfriend? How does your nephewpare?


    Another woman argued, "Looks aren''t everything" She rolled her eyes, surprised that a woman like Chloe could find such a good man.


    Chloe looked at Noah. He was still wearing that ck knitted sweater, with the sleeves rolled up halfway, revealing strong. veiny forearms as he held items in both hands.


    Chloe asked, "When exactly do you n to leave?" Her face remained stern, not softening just because he was helping carry her bags.


    Noah said, "Can you not send me away the first moment you see me each day? I have nowhere else to go. I can help clean the house and take care of Wyatt.


    "I won''t just stay here for free. Besides, having a man around can be useful for all sorts of needs."


    Chloe frowned deeply. She thought, "All sorts of needs? This conversation is bing more outrageous. His shamelessness is beyond myprehension Noah said, "Didn''t I just help you shut those people up? Isn''t that fulfilling all sorts of needs?"


    Chloe was speechless. Shemanded, "You have to leave by tomorrow morning."


    Noah acted as if he didn''t hear, holding the items in his hands while using his foot to push the door open.


    "Did you hear me? I''m talking to you!" Chloe shouted as she pressed her hand against the door frame.


    Noah shouted, "Ouch! My foot is stuck in the door. How am I supposed to walk if it''s injured?"


    Feeling a bit resigned, Chloe removed her hand and stepped inside, opening the door wide.


    Noah followed her in, a hint of a smile in his eyes.


    "Mommy," Wyatt called and ran over. Every time Chloe came home, he would kiss her on the cheek, erasing all her weariness.


    Chloe changed her shoes at the door and nced around the room-toys were all over the floor, and half-eaten snacks were on the table.


    12:06 Sat, 23 Nov


    She thought. ''Is this what he calls cleaning the house? Wyatt is now eating snacks with him. He never teaches the good things. Only the bad habits seem to stick." Noah scratched the back of his head and said, "I''ll clean up in a bit. I promise it''ll be spotless"


    82%


    "If you don''t leave by tomorrow morning. I''m calling the police, Chloe warned. She grabbed the shopping bag from Noah


    and went into the kitchen.


    Noah immediately looked to Wyatt for help, mouthing. "What should I do!"


    Wyatt patted his chest as if saying. "Don''t worry, I''ve got this."


    Then, Wyatt said to Chloe, "Mommy, tomorrow''s my birthday. Can we let Uncle Noah stay until after my birthday before we send him away?"


    Hearing this, Noah''s eyes widened. He lowered his voice and said, "Hey! You little rascal..."


    Wyatt put a finger to his lips. He whispered, "You''re so silly. It''s called a dy tactic.


    Noah thought, "What? He knows quite a lot, even about dy tactics.


    "Mommy, is it okay? Let Uncle Noah stay for my birthday," Wyatt said as he tugged at Chloe''s shirt in the kitchen.


    Chloe said, "Ophelia ising to celebrate your birthday tomorrow, remember?"


    She thought. Isn''t it the same way every year? If Elia sees Noah, I don''t even know how to exin. She is so smart. What if she notices something is off?"


    Wyatt said, "Alright. Goodbye, Uncle Noah. I''ve got Ophelia with me."


    Noah was shocked,pletely puzzled. He thought, That isn''t what we have agreed earlier.


    Chloe was delighted to see Wyatt stand by her side. But seeing Noah quiet gave her a vague sense of disappointment. She turned around and busied herself in the kitchen.


    At dinner, there was a dish of sauced beef steak, just like the day Noah arrived.


    Chloe thought, ''Let''s consider it thest supper. After this, we won''t have any more encounters.

 Jilted Bride 218

    The living room was impably clean, with snacks and books neatly arranged. Noah had done a thorough job


    Chloe had thought Noah''s obsessivepulsive tendencies might have been cured by his amnesia.


    "Dinner''s ready," she said in her usual calm, emotionless tone.


    "Mommy, let''s kick Uncle Noah out today. How about we send him packing after he''s had his fill?" Wyatt climbed onto a chair, looking at Chloe with earnest eyes.


    Chloe paused, ncing at Noah. Did he do something to offend Wyatt? she wondered.


    Although it annoyed her when Wyatt sided with Noah, this....


    "Right now?" Chloe asked, hesitating.


    "Yeah." Wyatt nodded seriously as if it were the most logical thing in the world.


    "Hey! Boy! That''s just too much. At least let me finish my meal first!" Noah eximed.


    "Fine, you can eat first, but then you have to leave," Wyatt replied, giving Noah a quick, deliberate wink


    Noah said nothing, instead diving into his food with unrestrained enthusiasm.


    Throughout the meal, Chloe couldn''t taste a thing. Her appetite was gone, leaving her feeling hollow.


    "I''ll wash the dishes for you before I go, Noah offered.


    When he said that, Chloe felt a sinking sensation in her chest.


    "No.


    , you don''t... you can just go. I can handle it myself," Chloe said, though her words seemed directed more at herself.


    After all, she had been managing everything on her own for years.


    "I''ll do it." Noah insisted, taking the te from her hands.


    Chloe stood there, expressionless, watching as Noah moved around in the kitchen.


    Her deep blue eyes misted over. It had only been ten minutes, yet it felt longer than a century.


    "Guess I''ll head out then," Noah said, wiping his slender fingers with a napkin.


    The callouses on his fingertips and palms were faint but unmistakable.


    Chloe could still picture the way he looked holding a gun.


    "Go," Chloe said, turning her head away to avoid looking at him any longer.


    After speaking, she walked straight into her bedroom without a backward nce.


    Noah quickly crouched down beside Wyatt. "Wyatt, are you sure this will work? Chloe doesn''t seem to care whether I go or


    not


    -


    Wyatt puffed out his chubby cheeks. "Trust me. Unless you''ve got a better idea?"


    "He''s right, Noah thought, clenching his jaw as he made up his mind.


    12:06 Sat, 23 NovT


    He opened the door and left.


    Inside, Chloe heard the sound of the door closing Her heart sank.


    82


    "He really left... I was the one who drove him away. I pushed him away again, Chloe thought, sitting alone to process the weight of what had just happened From outside the room, Wyatt knocked twice on the door.


    "Mommy, let''s have a talk," Wyatt said, his cute voice filtering through the door with an unexpectedly gentlemanly tone.


    Chloeposed herself, walked to the door, and opened it. She crouched down to look directly into Wyatt''s plump little


    ce, which carried an oddly mature expression for his age.


    Talk about what?" Chloe asked.


    "Your marriage prospects, of course," Wyatt said.


    Chloe raised an eyebrow. Hearing such a statement from a five-year-old was nothing short of jarring.


    Wyatt''s tone is so much like a meddling elder. Who''s been teaching him this stuff?'' Chloe thought.


    Noah was the first person who came to mind. His influence on Wyatt was undeniable.


    "Mommy, I''m not a three-year-old anymore. I want to talk about my dad," Wyatt said, his wordsnding like a heavy blow on Chloe''s heart.


    Wyatt took her hand, speaking with the solemnity of someone far older than his years. "I know that for me to be born, there must have been a dad in the picture.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "I get it. You and Daddy held hands, kissed, and slept together. That''s how I came into the world, right?"


    "Damn Noah. Did he teach him this?'' Chloe thought, frustration bubbling up.


    "It doesn''t matter what kind of person my dad is. What matters is you, Mommy. You''ve worked so hard raising me all on your own. Don''t you think it''s time you found a husband?" Wyatt asked earnestly. "What did you say?" Chloe furrowed her brows deeper.


    When did Wyatt start understanding these topics? Chloe thought.


    What on earth has Noah been teaching Wyatt? Damn it!'' Chloe cursed inwardly.


    "Listen to me first. I think Uncle Noah... Wyatt started.


    "Don''t think about it. No thinking like that," Chloe interrupted, not wanting to hear Wyatt say the words out loud.


    Lately, Wyatt had been spending so much time with Noah.


    Chloe knew exactly what Wyatt was thinking.


    "I have to say it. Mommy, if you find a husband, just don''t pick someone like Uncle Noah. He''s just too untrustworthy You should look for someone like Ken Wyatt continued. Chloe froze for a moment.


    "Is this what you wanted to tell me? You don''t like Uncle Noah? Chloe cleared her throat.


    2/4-


    12:06 Sat, 23 Nov


    ''Oh my God, what am I even asking? Chloe thought, instantly regretting the question.


    She quickly pressed her lips together, trying to retract it.


    82%


    But Wyatt had already begun to think deeply. "I don''t like him because he said he likes you and wants to be my dad. But I don''t agree with that. I want to think about your happiness" "What?" Chloe''s heart skipped a beat, as though it might leap out of her chest.


    "Uncle Noah said he likes you and wants to be my dad, but I don''t think you like him, so I''m thinking about your happiness, Wyatt repeated.


    ering Chloe silent, Wyatt tilted his head, his thick brows knitting together.


    "Did I misunderstand? Mommy, do you actually like Uncle Noah?" he guessed.


    "Does Mommy like Uncle Noah? Adult emotions are soplicated. Wyatt thought


    "I don''t! Stop saying nonsense." Chloe quickly replied.


    "Okay," Wyant said.


    The entire night, Chloe tossed and turned, unable to sleep, the words Wyatt had said echoing in her mind.


    "How could a person with amnesia know anything about that? Chloe thought.


    The next morning, Chloe went to take out the trash, but the door only opened a crack before it stopped moving.


    She poked her head out and saw Noah, his eyes tightly shut, leaning against the doorframe. His face was pale. his cheeks flushed.


    "Noah... What''s wrong? Noah... Chloe pushed the door open with all her strength and stepped outside.


    Before Noah copsed, Chloe quickly caught him.


    Noah slowly opened his heavy eyelids, and through his blurry vision, Chloe''s familiar figure came into focus.


    *Chloe..." Noah murmured, his voice hoarse, almost stopping Chloe''s heart in its tracks.


    "You... you didn''t spend the whole night out here, did you? Are you crazy? You''ll get sick! Chloe said, her voice full of


    concern.


    "Wyatt''s idea... You. You have to take responsibility... Noah furrowed his brow,pletely drained of energy.


    "Damn it. How did I let Wyatt talk me into this? I didn''t need to risk my life just to stay here. I feel terrible... Noah thought to himself.


    Chloe sighed, surprised that Noah would even go as far as to use a pity strategy.


    She helped Noah into the house, but his entire weight was pressing down on her.


    As she helped him to the couch, Noah leaned into her, pulling her into his embrace, his arm tightly wrapped around her


    waist.


    "Be careful," Noah said, his voice soft, weak, and even lower than usual.


    12:07 Sat, 23 Nov T


    82%


    Noah looked so different while sick, quieter than his usual talkative self, almost reminding Chloe of the person he had been before.


    Chloe quickly pulled herself out of his embrace. I-I''ll go get you some medicine."


    As she started to move, Noah grabbed her w


    wrist.

 Jilted Bride 219

    Thump... Thump.....


    In the silent room, Chloe could only hear the frantic pounding of her own heart.


    Noah pursed his lips, swallowing hard. "Could you, un, get me a ss of water first...


    Chloe took a deep breath, her heart finally settling back into her chest. She followed Noah''s gaze to his hand, then turned to the kitchen to fetch him a ss of warm water, grabbing some fever medicine as well. Take the medicine and then leave quickly, Chloe said.


    The white pill and the ss of water were ced on the coffee table in front of Noah.


    "So heartless!" Noah coughed and propped himself up.


    If that''s the case, then I won''t take the medicine, Noah thought.


    Seeing this, Chloe sighed. "Today is Wyatt''s birthday, Elia ising over, and I don''t want her to misunderstand. If you really have nowhere else to go... you can wait until Elia leaves ande back after." Noah raised an eyebrow, realizing that Chloe didn''t seem to be rushing him out anymore.


    At that moment, he felt a little less miserable.


    Noah quickly swallowed the pill and downed the entire ss of water in one go. "Give me another one."


    Chloe, keeping her patience, took the cup.


    As she turned to head back to the kitchen, Noah raised an eyebrow. "Actually... I have a way to make sure Elia doesn''t misunderstand." When Chloe didn''t respond, Noah said seriously, "You could let me actually be Wyatt''s father. That would solve everything, wouldn''t it?"


    Bang!


    The


    cup slipped from Chloe''s hand, crashing to the floor and shattering into pieces.


    The shards scattered, and half the ss of warm water sshed onto Chloe''s slippers.


    One moment her feet had been warm, but the next they were immediately cold.


    "You must really be sick if you''re talking nonsense like that," Chloe said.


    "Do you think I''m an idiot?" Noah''s voice, when he spoke normally, was deep and maic, his expression solemn with no trace of a joke in it.


    Chloe avoided his serious gaze, crouching down to pick up the broken ss pieces.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    "Be careful," Noah said, his throat much better after drinking the water, his difort lessening.


    "I was in a ne crash once, and I lost all my memories. I felt empty inside. But when I''m with you, I feel a sense of peace, so I''ve been sticking around, Noah exined. Chloe paused in her movements as a sharp pain shot through her fingertip. A drop of blood trickled down her nail,nding


    on the transparent ss,


    "If you don''t mind, I could be Wyatt''s father. You can think of me as yourte husband. I wouldn''t mind," Noah said.


    "I mind" Chloe slowly stood up, her gaze firm. "You''re not him."


    "Noah doesn''t remember anything. Once he remembers everything, he''ll probably make the same choice he did before. We can never be together, Chloe thought.


    "Oh, right. Sorry... Did I hurt your feelings? I''m sorry..." Noah mumbled, settling back on the couch. His voice grew softer and softer until he fell into a deep sleep.


    hloe finished picking up the shards of ss and walked over to the couch. Looking at Noah, fast asleep, her heart ached as if pierced by needles.


    Unable to resist, Chloe reached out and gently touched his cheek.


    "The one who should be apologizing is me... Noah, it''s me who lied to you. I knew who you were all along and got close to you on purpose. From the beginning. I''ve only been using you. Chloe said. Noah rubbed his nose and adjusted into a morefortable sleeping position.


    Chloe immediately pulled her hand back and silently watched him for a long while, until she heard the sound of a door opening from the bedroom.


    "Mommy... what are you doing? Wyatt pushed open the door, rubbing his sleepy eyes with his chubby little hands.


    Chloe quickly turned her head, wiping away the tears from her chin.


    Wyatt ran over, his soft little arms wrapping around Chloe''s neck.


    "Mommy..." Wyatt knew more than anyone realized. Every year on his birthday, Chloe would feel sad. "Mommy, you have


    1. me.


    Wyatt helped Chloe wipe away her tears, his actions thoughtful beyond his years.


    When Noah groggily opened his eyes, he saw Chloe and Wyatt wrapped in each other''s arms.


    The softest part of his heart feltpletely filled, like something precious had settled there.


    At Rosewood Manor, the morning sunlight streamed through the cracks in the curtains.


    The lightnded on thedy''s delicate face, her longshes fluttering slightly. Her features were so finely chiseled that she looked like a porcin doll.


    She clung tightly to the man''s waist, her head resting against him as if she were afraid he might slip away.


    Keh leaned back against the headboard, his gray pajamas slightly open at the cor, revealing the well-defined thes of


    his torso.


    His deep eyes gazed down at Ophelia in his arms, not even blinking, as though he couldn''t bear to look away.


    Ophelia''sshes fluttered, and like a little kitten, she shifted from his waist to his chest, tilting her head to look up at him.


    "Little one, when did you be so clingy, hmm?" Keh murmured, tucking a strand of hair behind her car. His voice was as soothing as a cello''s melody. 2/4-


    12:07 Sat, 23 Nov


    "Love you." Ophelia stretchedzily, wrapping her arms around Keh''s neck and cing a kiss near his lips.


    Ophelia rested her chin on Keh''s chest, herrge, watery eyes locking onto Keh''s narrow, seductive gaze.


    The atmosphere was so charged, so intoxicating.


    Keh''s chest rose and fell, a flicker of desire shimmering in his eyes.


    "Do you know what happens when you tease a man in the morning?" Keh said.


    "Huh?" Ophelia froze.


    That look in his eyes was all too familiar.


    Before Keh could shift and pin her down, Ophelia swiftly straddled him, pressing her hands against his chest.


    "Calm down. We still need to go to Chloe''ster, Ophelia said.


    She didn''t want to end up too weak to get out of bedter.


    Quickly, she pulled one leg back and slid off the bed, stepping over Keh and heading straight to the bathroom to freshen up. Keh''s fiery gaze slowly cooled,


    The phone on the nightstand buzzed twice, and he picked it up to see a foreign number shing on the screen.


    Keh furrowed his brows and hit the decline button.


    Ivy, on the other end, pulled the phone away from her ear, her delicate brows furrowed.


    "Keh actually hung up on my call? He''s really asking for it, Ivy thought to herself.


    82%


    Seeing Ivy''s dark expression, Phoebe, ever perceptive, quickly said, "Ivy, don''t be mad. Keh might not be fully awake


    yer


    "By the way, Ivy, how long do you n to stay in Heloria this time? I can help you find a better ce to stay."


    "No need, I can take care of myself. By the way, how are things with you and Keh? Thest time you called, your voice didn''t sound right. Why would you want to give up on him? Phoebe, that''s not like you," Ivy asked. Phoebe forced a bitter smile. "I''m sorry, Ivy. I''ve let you down. Maybe Keh and I just aren''t meant to be."


    Ivy clearly didn''t believe her.


    "I came back specifically for you and Keh. Tell me the truth. Is Keh still involved with that woman?" Ivy asked.


    "Ivy, Elia and Keh are truly in love. They won''t break up so easily. Let it go, Ivy," Phoebe replied.


    "Truly in love? Humph... there''s no such thing. I know Keh''s personality well. Just do as I say, and everything will work out..." Ivy said.

 Jilted Bride 220

    In the apartment, Chloe nced at the clock on the wall. Elia would be arriving soon


    The bathroom door was closed, and through the frosted ss, she could vaguely make out Noah''s bare upper body. "How much longer?" Chloe knocked impatiently on the door.


    "Just a minute. I''m washing my face," Noah replied.


    Noah had taken some medicine, slept for a while, and sweated through his clothes, leaving them stuck to his body.


    Chloe twisted the bathroom door open, not even caring whether Noah had put on a shirt, and pulled him out from inside. tossing his clothes at him. "Let''s go." Chloe said.


    Tm dizzy, really dizzy." Noah said.


    Noah still had a fever and had no idea where to go.


    He rested one hand on his forehead, and when he saw the sofa, he just wanted to lie down. "You don''t believe me? Feel for yourself.


    Noah grabbed Chloe''s wrist and pressed it to his forehead.


    "There''s a hotel downstairs. You find somewhere to rest, and call if you need something," Chloe said, pulling her hand back


    she pushed Noah toward the door.


    Noah reluctantly shoved his head into his shirt. As soon as his head emerged from the neckline, the elevator doors in front of him slowly opened.


    Ophelia was holding onto Keh''s arm, Ray was carrying a giant Lego set, and Eric was holding a cake.


    For a moment, the scene felt like it had been frozen in time.


    Ophelia nced at Noah, then at Chloe, and she had never seen such a rich expression on Chloe''s face before.


    Just as Ophelia was wondering how to speak up, Keh''s lips parted slightly. "Is this what you meant when you told me you found somewhere to stay?" Keh was addressing Noah.


    Noah scratched his head. "Ah... yeah. I''ve thought ahead. Next time something happens with Elia, I can juste to Chloe for help. It''s more convenient... Ah..." Chloe shot him a cold re and pinched him at his waist. "Can you not speak so carelessly?"


    "Next time something happens with Elia? What exactly does he want to happen to Elia?" Chloe thought.


    "Humph... Looks like you''re not exactly wee here," Keh said, a mocking curve to his lips as his gaze briefly skimmed over Noah''s shirt.


    "Sorry, Mr. Sinir. Well... why don''t youe inside?" Chloe met Ophelia''s gaze, feeling a bit uneasy inside.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Keh took Ophelia''s hand, acting as though he was walking into his own home.


    82%


    Noah quickly slipped inside before Chloe could tell him to leave.


    Ray and Eric set the items down and left.


    The apartment, which had once felt spacious, now felt much more cramped with Keh''s presence.


    Wyatt heard themotion and ran out of his room, rushing into Ophelia''s arms when he saw her.


    "Ophelia, I missed you." Wyatt said.


    "Ophelia, I missed you. Happy birthday, Wyatt," Ophelia said, squatting down and gently tapping his little nose with her finger, looking into his big eyes. Kids really grow so fast. Before I realize it, Wyatt is already five years old; Ophelia thought.


    This is your gift," Ophelia said, pointing to the giant Lego set nearby.


    Wyatt''s eyes lit up. "Wow..."


    Before Wyatt could rush over, Noah stepped forward first, his eyes shining like they were filled with stars as he picked up the giant Lego set to admire it. This is top-tier stuff," Noah said.


    Hearing this. Ophelia turned her head to meet Noah''s gaze, and for a moment, she felt an inexplicable familiarity with him:


    "Mommy, can I keep it?" Wyatt asked.


    Chloe nodded, blocking Ophelia''s gaze, which was still observing Noah. "Why don''t you all stay for dinner before you leave!"


    Ophelia was already thinking the same thing. In the past, Wyatt''s birthdays had always been just the three of them, and this year, it would be livelier with more people.


    She looked toward Keh, seeking his opinion.


    Keh raised an eyebrow. "I''ll follow your lead"


    Keh didn''t have much of an opinion. As long as Ophelia was happy, it didn''t matter what happened.


    Ophelia smiled. "I''m craving your sauced beef steak."


    Her smile was warm and deep, her clear eyes sparkling. When she smiled, her eyes seemed to shine like they were filled with


    stars


    Ophelia''s smile was contagious.


    Seeing Ophelia so happy now made Chloe feel relieved and happy for her.


    "Wyatt,e help me," Chloe said, gently rubbing Wyatt''s head.


    Wyatt was more than happy to help.


    "Forget it, Chloe. I''ll help you. Wyatt can y a little longer since it''s his birthday today." Ophelia stood up and took off her light beige cashmere coat.


    It had always been like this every year.


    In the living room, Keh sat on the sofa, his gaze following Ophelia in the kitchen.


    Meanwhile, Noah, who had seemed so sick earlier, was now perfectly fine, sitting on the carpet with Wyatt, starting to y with Legos.


    Wyatt nced at Keh.


    ''Ken''s been staring at the kitchen. Could it be that he''s worried the food won''t be good? Wyatt thought.


    "Ken, my mommy''s cooking is really good, so you don''t need to worry. You shoulde to y with us," Wyatt said, trying


    to include him.


    Keh withdrew his gaze, casting a quick nce at Wyatt. His expression seemed to say, "How childish. Do you think I''ll y with something like that?"


    A few minutester, the three of them were gathered around a pile of Legos.


    Keh had taken off his jacket, resting his elbows on his knees, his sleeves rolled up to his forearms. He held a base that he''d already assembled. This thing? What''s the difficulty? It''s nothing, easy as pie, he thought.


    Keh soon grew bored after a few minutes of building.


    "How long do you n on staying here? Aren''t you going back to the West residence?" Keh shot a cold nce at Noah. who was sitting on the floor.


    The mention of the West family immediately dampened Noah''s mood. "Go back to the West residence. The West family doesn''t need me. You saw how my parents are. I don''t want to go back," he said, his voice sounding almost childlike. There was no warmth, no sense of home there. Noah was sick and needed to be somewhere safe and warm.


    However, mentioning the West family did make Noah curious about something.


    "Keh, why did I sever ties with the West family?" Noah asked.


    "How should I know?" Keh shot Noah an annoyed nce, slightly furrowing his brows.


    Of course, Keh had no idea why Noah had suddenly cut ties with the West family.


    "Why are you asking that now?" Keh said, his tone skeptical.


    Noah, since waking up, had never asked about his past. He had only learned things from others, and things no one told him, he never bothered to ask about..


    "I''m just curious. Also... what was I supposed to do with you before that ne crash?" Noah continued.


    Noah didn''t quite understand why he was asking these questions now.


    In the past, he never cared to uncover his memories. After all, to him, it wasn''t important. He''d already died once, and every day since then felt like a gift.


    But now, Noah wanted to know the whole story.


    It had been more than five years, and Keh found it hard to recall.


    "At the time, you just said you wereing to Denex to find someone." Keh said.


    Who exactly Noah had been looking for, Keh hadn''t said. But it must have been important.

 Jilted Bride 221

    T


    Before this incident happened, Noah rarely spoke.


    He was always the type to keep his emotions in check, and no one ever knew exactly what he was up to or what he was thinking, not even Keh.


    So, Keh didn''t often ask about Noah''s private matters.


    Noah stroked his chin thoughtfully, ''Am I here to find someone? Who am I looking for?"


    Didn''t I ever have a girl I liked before? Noah asked again.


    Kermeth furrowed his brows even deeper.


    "Has Noah lost his mind? he thought.


    "How should I know?" Keh replied.


    "Weren''t we always together back then?" Noah said.


    Keh was caught off guard by Noah''s seemingly random question. "Do I look like I have nothing to do?"


    We? Always together? Why doesn''t he just say we slept in the same bed" Keh thought to himself, a little frustrated,


    Keh let out a faint sigh. He could hardly remember what Noah was like back then.


    In the past, Noah never had women around him. He always maintained a cold demeanor, which was nothing like the man sitting on the floor now, ying with Legos.


    "We were too busy building our own forces back then, Keh said. Aside from work, they rarely discussed anything else.


    Noah didn''t know that Keh had returned to Denex to find someone,


    With that thought, Keh looked back at Ophelia in the kitchen, his heart involuntarily tightening.


    "Building forces?" Noah asked.


    "Yes, the West family was trying to establish influence in Yosk at the time, and you were busy helping your family with that," Keh exined.


    Noah thought back carefully, but his mind was nk. He couldn''t remember anything.


    Click!


    Chloe in the kitchen identally cut her hand, and blood started flowing from the wound.


    "Chloe..." Ophelia rushed over to check.


    Wyatt heard the noise and immediately put down his toy and ran over. "Mommy"


    Wyatt stood on his tiptoes, checking Chloe''s wound. He carefully grabbed her hand, cing it under the faucet and turning


    the water.


    "Mommy, you need to rinse it off. I''ll get you a Band-Aid," Wyatt said.


    Before Wyatt could run back to the living room to get the first aid kit. Noah was already holding it, rushing over with quick


    23 NOV


    82%


    strides.


    "What''s going on with you today? Did you not get enough rest?" Nouli asked suspiciously, carefully wiping Chloe''s hand dry with a sanitary cloth. Chloe tried several times to pull her hand back, but Noah held onto it tightly.


    "Hang in there. Don''t worry about the pain," Noah said.


    Chloe wasn''t worried about the pain.


    She was flustered by his actions, her cheeks warming


    This was the first time Ophelia had seen Noah act this


    But then, she suddenly realized something was off. an unfamiliar heat.


    and she realized that he actually had a more serious side.


    "No need. I can handle it myself." Chloe forcefully pulled her hand free and carelessly pped the partially applied Band-Aid in ce.


    It was just a small cut. There was no need for everyone to worry so much.


    After checking that she had stopped bleeding, Noah finally put away the first aid kit.


    Wyatt kissed the pink Band-Aid on Chloe''s hand. "Mommy, it doesn''t hurt..."


    Chloe affectionately rubbed his head.


    "Be careful, okay? And you too, Ophelia, be careful. If you cut yourself, Mr. Sinir might just burn this house down," Noah said, walking out of the kitchen with the first aid kit. Ophelia nodded and exchanged a nce with Keh in the living room.


    They shared a quiet understanding and raised their eyebrows in unison, both realizing there might be something going on between them.


    Keh eyed Noah. "Didn''t expect you to be so helpful now


    "Of course. Didn''t I always act like this? Living in her house, shouldn''t I make a good impression? When I lived in your house, didn''t I behave pretty well?" Noah replied. Noah shrugged indifferently.


    In the kitchen, Ophelia took care of all the tasks that involved washing vegetables.


    Chloe was about to clean the cutting board, but Ophelia immediately took it from her. "Chloe, you''re always taking care of Wyatt on your own. It''s too much for you,"


    "I''m used to it." Chloe continued taking out the other ingredients from the fridge.


    "Actually, you could consider..." Ophelia said tentatively, her voice just loud enough for the two of them to hear.


    But before Ophelia could finish, Chloe interrupted her.


    "Eh, you have Mr. Sinir to take care of you, and I''m happy for you, but I don''t need it, and I''m not considering it." Chloe smiled, clearly not wanting to continue the conversation.


    L


    12:08 Sat, 23 Nov T


    Ophelia noticed this and didn''t push further.


    She went back to preparing the ingredients and chopping vegetables.


    When Keh saw Ophelia holding a knife in the kitchen, he immediately stood up and strode over.


    "I''ll do it," Keh said, his tone leaving no room for argument.


    Chloe pursed her lips, thinking. Is he worried that Elia might cut herself too?


    "Do you know how? Ophelia asked, surprised, looking at Keh.


    Thest time Keh had cooked for her, making pasta, was a long time ago.


    At that time, there hadn''t been much to chop, so Ophelia didn''t know how good he was with a knife.


    Keh''s expression seemed to say, "Is there anything I can''t do?"


    "Chloe, why don''t you take a break? There are only two dishes left. I''ll cook with Keh" She had never cooked with Keh before.


    Usually, they were so busy, and the servants at Rosewood Manor took care of everything so well, but now they had the perfect opportunity to try it out together.


    Ophelia gently nudged Chloe out of the kitchen.


    With Keh in there, it wasn''t really proper for Chloe to stay.


    "Alright, be careful," Chloe said, stepping aside to give them space.


    Keh rolled up his shirt sleeves, revealing his forearms.


    His long fingers lightly grasped the knife handle, rinsing it in the sink.


    With a gray cloth, he carefully wiped both sides of the de in smooth, practiced motions. However, it didn''t seem like he was actually nning to chop anything. Ophelia washed the ingredients and handed them to him. This meat needs to be shredded, and the carrots and peppers. should be julienned... "Got it." Keh replied.


    He looked at the food on the cutting board, his expression a bit confused.


    Ophelia bit her lip, already starting tough inwardly.


    She watched as Keh awkwardly held the knife, tracing imaginary lines over the ingredients but not actually cutting. It was rather amusing.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    A few minutester, Ophelia saw Noah had already cut all the ingredients neatly and evenly, throwing away the scraps..


    He was meticulously shredding everything


    "What a waste! Let me do it," Ophelia said.


    Otherwise, they wouldn''t have enough ingredients.


    Keh shot her a side-eye. "What? You don''t trust me? Huh?"


    3/4-


    12:08 Sat, 23 NovT


    Ophelia chuckled. "I trust you, bute on, you''re wasting so much food."


    "Should I pick it up then?" Keh bent down to pick up the scraps.


    "Okay," Ophelia nodded. The kitchen waste wasn''t too dirty. They could clean it up properly.


    Keh''s long fingers cleaned the scraps slowly, his focused expression making the whole scene seem charming.


    A warm current surged in Ophelia''s chest, and she suddenly had the urge to hug him.


    She wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her head on his shoulder as she watched him, her fingers subtly curling in the dim light.

 Jilted Bride 222

    Little one''s getting bolder, Keh thought to himself.


    Suddenly, he turned his head, a glint of desire shing in his eyes, which startled Ophelia.


    She e quickly pulled her hand back and obediently started helping him with the tasks.


    82%


    "Here, this one too. This one needs to be cut as well. Ophelia handed him the peeled carrot, not daring to look him in the


    eye.


    Keh silently watched her, his movements stop


    stopping.


    "Why aren''t you cutting it... Mmm..." She had just lifted her head when his cool, soft lips gently pressed against hers.


    Keh''s eyes glimmered with mischief as he nipped at the corner of Ophelia''s lips.


    Seeing the slight furrow in her brow, Keh''s eyes reflected a touch of smugness as he continued chopping.


    Keh was getting his revenge.


    Ophelia quickly nced over to the people sitting in the living room. The three of them simultaneously turned their heads- away, which immediately made Ophelia''s cheeks flush with embarrassment.


    Till do the stir-fryingter, Keh said, patting Ophelia''s head, his lips curling into a smile.


    "Oh... but do you know how?" Ophelia asked.


    "You direct me," Keh said.


    Keh ced all the prepared ingredients beside the stove. "Do we just dump everything in?" Ophelia quickly waved her hand.


    This was definitely Keh''s first time cooking. He didn''t even know to put the oil in first.


    Ophelia had forgotten her earlier shyness and started giving instructions.


    "Wait a second," Ophelia said.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    She grabbed an apron from the hook next to the fridge and, standing on tiptoe, slipped it over Keh''s head.


    The pink apron with cartoon patterns lookedically small on the tall man, like an adult wearing a child''s outfit, and the straps in the back couldn''t even be tied.


    There, that''s better, Just don''t get it on your clothes," Ophelia said.


    Keh gave the apron a disdainful nce and sighed helplessly.


    Ophelia bit her lip, her eyes twinkling with mischief, looking like a sly little fox.


    She ced the needed condiments next to him. "First, pour the oil in, then cook the meat..."


    While Keh was focused on cooking, Ophelia quickly pulled out her phone and snapped a couple of pictures of his back. Then, realizing she hadn''t captured his small apron properly, she snapped a photo from the side. "What''s next?" Keh asked, turning his head toward her.


    12:08 Sat, 23 Nov


    Ophelia quickly, and somewhat guiltily, put her phone away. "Then, add the side ingredients, and season them one by one..."


    Keh, adding seasoning to the dish, looked like a researcher in ab coat conducting an experiment.


    "How many grams?" Keh asked.


    That question caught Ophelia off guard. She didn''t think anyone measured ingredients down to the gram when cooking.


    She grabbed a spoon, scooped out a small amount, and said, "This should be enough."


    They worked in perfect harmony.


    Soon, the other two dishes were ready.


    Chloe had set the table, cing a birthday cake in the center.


    This was a special cake Ophelia had ordered from her chain bakery, tailored to Wyatt''s favorite vors. It was the only one of its kind in the world.


    A blue, round cake topped with small car-shaped cakes, each as delicate as a model car, so intricate that they almost seemed too beautiful to eat. The lights in the room dimmed.


    Candles were lit, and Wyatt closed his eyes to make a wish. The glow illuminated his chubby face.


    Keh leaned back in his chair, his legs crossed under the table. He gently yed with Ophelia''s slender fingers, lightly rubbing the ring on her finger. Looking at Wyatt, Keh couldn''t help but think of the years he had spent with his mother when he was a child.


    Every year on Keh''s birthday, his mother never failed to make it special.


    For a moment, Keh''s emotions were a mix of nostalgia andplexity.


    Ophelia turned her head to see Keh gazing downward, his eyes carrying a hint of sorrow.


    Whenever Keh thought of his mother, it was always with that same look on his face.


    Ophelia reached for Keh''s hand and whispered softly in his ear, "Kennie, don''t worry. From now on, I''ll never let


    you


    be


    alone."


    Hearing this, Keh''s heart gave a sharp, emotional jolt.


    He gently rubbed Ophelia''s head, his deep eyes reflecting the candlelight, his gaze full of tenderness.


    After Wyatt''s birthday celebration, the sky gradually darkened.


    The city''s neon lights shone brightly. On the way from the apartment back to Rosewood Manor, there was a bridge crossing the river. The night view here was beautiful, and Ophelia, feeling a bit too full, decided to get out and take a walk. She had never walked down the street with Keh like a young couple before.


    Kerh, wearing a ck baseball cap, tightly held Ophelia''s hand as they walked. They chatted about thepany''stest business and then about Wyatt and Chloe. 12:08 Sat, 23 Nov


    "How did you and Chloe meet?" Keh asked.


    Actually, Keh had been wanting to ask this for a while.


    From the moment Ophelia had easily bypassed the signal jammer at the Davidson residence, toter pinpointing the location of the Davidson family''s base at Waston.


    All of this was beyond what an ordinary hacker could do.


    However, Keh didn''t want to investigate Ophelia''s friends.


    82%


    "Why the sudden question?" Ophelia linked her arm with his, slowing her steps as she thought back. After all, it felt like an Entire lifetime had passed for her.


    "At the time, Chloe was pregnant and had ended up in Gloomhaven. She seemed to have thoughts of suicide. It was me who noticed something was wrong and followed her until I saved her.


    "After that, she and Wyatt lived with me and my grandmother. Why do you ask?" Ophelia exined.


    "Aren''t you curious?" Keh looked at Ophelia, surprised that she could so easily trust someone.


    "Curious? Am I curious about Chloe herself, or her abilities? Ophelia wondered.


    "At that time, Chloe was very fragile and definitely had a past she didn''t want to talk about. Besides, Chloe never used her hacking skills to hurt anyone. She''s always worked honestly to earn money and taken care of Wyatt, Ophelia continued Unless she had a specific need, Chloe rarely showed her skills.


    Even though Ophelia had been curious at one point, over time, she had dismissed any negative thoughts.


    Ophelia paused for a moment, then suddenly stopped and turned around to face Keh, her expression serious. "What are you suspecting about Chloe?"


    Keh wouldn''t ask about her friends without a reason unless he suspected something about Chloe.


    Keh didn''t beat around the bush. "Noah has been staying with her recently. I need to ensure his safety. You know his identity


    "I haven''t med Noah for clinging to Chloe, and you''re already suspicious of her," Ophelia protested.


    This was something Ophelia didn''t like.


    From what she had seen, it was Noah who was unwilling to leave Chloe''s house.


    Keh sighed. He knew her well. She would protect everyone around her with everything she had, especially her friends. She couldn''t bear to see anyone criticize them.


    Keh said, "Chloe is not simple. Both times you were kidnapped were rted to the Davidson family. The signal jamming device they developed at Yosk, even the Death Guild couldn''t crack it easily. She did it effortlessly. And as for Jonathan''s base..."


    Keh''s expression grew serious. "That ce is surrounded byndmines, and no outsider could get in. It''s hard to even find on satellite maps, but she located it immediately and knew the terrain perfectly."


    He continued, "I''m not suspicious of her intentions toward you, but I need to ensure Noah''s safety. The West family and the Davidson family have a deep feud. If Chloe is somehow linked to the Davidson family, it could put Noah in danger."

 Jilted Bride 223

    "The Davidson family and the West family''s feud? Ophelia thought.


    82%


    When the Davidson family was mentioned. Ophelia immediately thought of Phoebe and Jonathan. She didn''t have a good impression of either of them.


    Ophelia didn''t consider Chloe a member of the Davidson family


    Keh took her hand, and they continued walking forward.


    It''s an old grudge from the previous generation, but it ended up involving the younger one. Do you remember when I told you about it?


    "Eighteen years ago, during the presidential election, the West family''s two-year-old daughter was kidnapped with Mrs. West by their enemies. The kidnappers were from the Davidson family, Keh said.


    "So, are you saying the West family''s youngest daughter was killed by the Davidson family?" Ophelia asked.


    That really deepened the grudge between the families.


    Yes, the Davidson family''s roots were also in Heloria back then. After the election, they fled to Yosk. Over the years, they''ve been trying to stir things up again. So, from now on... be careful of the Davidson family, alright?" Keh ruffled her hair from behind and wrapped his arm around her shoulders.


    "I''ll be careful. Besides, I have you to protect me," Ophelia said.


    Keh didn''t respond. "Let''s get in the car. Are we really going to walk all the way back?"


    "We could just walk back. It''ll be like a walk in the park," Ophelia said.


    It was rare for them to have time together like this.


    "Alright, let''s walk back then," Keh said, his voice full of affection, holding Ophelia close, his gaze softer than the moonlight.


    "The two of them continued walking down the road.


    When they reached an uphill stretch, Keh crouched in front of her. Tll carry y you."


    "Sure!" Ophelia said, excited.


    He''d never carried her before.


    Ophelia climbed onto his broad, warm back and wrapped her arms around his neck.


    She pressed her cheek against his back, rubbing it affectionately like a little cat


    Keh stood up, and Ophelia felt light as a feather. His back didn''t seem burdened at all, though his entire body fel warmer with her presence. Keh''s pace was slow as if he didn''t want to reach the end of the road.


    But unfortunately, every road has an end.


    12:08 Sat, 23 Nov T


    82%


    The next day, the roses at Rosewood Manor had bloomed, with clusters of pink buds swaying in the breeze among the green


    branches


    It was Monday, and Mark arrived early to report on work.


    In the past, he had always reported to Keh, but now he was reporting to Ophelia.


    Mark began. "The Gloomhaven Ser Field area is going to be developed into a railway station. The project has been confirmed, and there will be a bidding meeting this morning at the Sunrise Hotel in Gloomhaven. The main focus is on evaluating a few listedpanies to see who is capable of taking on the station project."


    "Do we need to go too?" Mark was confused. Given Keh''s personality, if Sinir Group really wanted this project, they


    ould simply ask directly.


    There was no need to go through all these formalities.


    Besides, taking on such a small project didn''t hold much significance for Sinir Group.


    Ophelia looked up at Keh, who was seated at the main desk.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Keh wore a ck shirt with two buttons undone at the cor, his legs crossed as he casually leaned back in his chair. holding a tablet in his hand. His long fingers slid across the screen, looking as if he was working seriously.


    But in reality. Keh was ying a game,pletely ignoring everything around him.


    "Are youing with meter?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh had been very clingytely, so Ophelia assumed he woulde with her.


    However. Keh paused for a moment, though briefly, and then gently shook his head. "I won''t go. I''ll wait for you at the


    office.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow. She had expected him to apany her.


    "Huh? You want me to go with you?" Keh put down the tablet and lifted his eyelids, and his deep, enigmatic eyes were filled with an unreadable smile.


    Ophelia knew that look all too well.


    No profit, no motivation," she wondered.


    It seemed like he was saying. "If you agree to a condition, I''ll go with you."


    As for what the condition was, Ophelia didn''t need to think hard to know..


    She wasn''t about to let Keh get his way.


    "It''s a good thing you''re not going. It''ll be less noticeable if you stay behind. I''ll try to get back early so we can have finch together," Ophelia said, standing up and wiping her mouth with a napkin. Ophelia went upstairs to change into a different outfit.


    By the time she came downstairs, the car was ready, and Keh was still lounging in the living room, looking as rxed as a cat basking in the sun, barely lifting an eyelid.


    Tm leaving now. Bye, Ophelia said.


    "Alright, be safe, Keh replied.


    Ophelia gave Keh an once-over, and there was nothing unusual about him.


    She got into the car, and it drove away from Rosewood Manor.


    Through the rearview mirror, Ophelia nced at Mark, who was driving, and slowly spoke. "Have you found anything about what I asked you to look into?"


    In the mirror, she could clearly see Mark furrowing his brow. "Uh... not yet."


    It had already been a week.


    Ophelia frowned.


    Mark wasn''t usually this inefficient, so it seemed like Keh had deliberately kept his trip abroad a secret, even Mark couldn''t find anything. "So, has Keh arranged any meetings today?" Ophelia asked.


    "None. I don''t think. Mr. Sinir hasn''t had any business engagementstely." Mark answered honestly. "All the work stuff, he''s left it to you, right?"


    "Is that all you know, just work?" Ophelia said, thinking, ''No wonder Mark doesn''t have a girlfriend"


    She felt concerned for Mark and was surprised that Keh seemed to have nothing but work in his life.


    "Well, yes. Before Mr. Sinir was with you, work was the only thing in his world, Mark said. He had been following Keh around overseas. Keh''s world could be simple orplex, depending on how one looked at it.


    Ophelia didn''t feel like pursuing it further. If Keh wanted to keep something hidden, there was no way she could find


    out.


    Just then, her phone vibrated twice.


    It was a call from a number based in Mgia.


    "Hello, this is Ronin. Do you remember me?" A pleasant voice came through the receiver.


    Ophelia immediately pictured a face in her mind, the thing that stood out most was those amber eyes.


    "I remember. Did something happen to Scott?" Ophelia asked.


    "No, I just wanted to give you an update. Would it be right to add you so I can send you Scott''s recovery progress over the past three months?


    "He''s showing signs of waking up, and in about two more months, he should be almost there," Ronin said.


    "Thank you," Ophelia replied.


    After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Ophelia epted Ronin''s friend reque


    As soon as she did, a few pictures were sent to her.


    In the photos, Scott''s eyes were half-open, his brows and eyes clean and pure. But because he had been on nutrition shots. for so long, his chin had be sharp, and the hollows below his cheekbones were even more pronounced. It was heartbreaking to see.


    12:08 Sat, 23 Nov T


    Ophelia: [Thank you, Dr. West.]


    Ronin sent a smiling emoji in reply. [No problem. Are you with Mr. Sinir?]


    Ophelia: [No, why? Do you need him for something?]


    Ronin: [No, nothing. He sent another emoji with his message.


    Ophelia stared at the emoji, feeling a little odd.


    It seemed like Ronin had something to say but was holding back.


    82%


    The car drove to Gloomhaven, not far from the production team, and Ophelia hadn''t seen Kevin and the others for a while.


    Rex sent Ophelia messages every day, asking her to visit the production team.


    Ophelia nned to go see them if she finished early.


    At the hotel entrance, Cody had already arrived early, holding a set of documents.


    Though SN Estate was still in its early stages and hadn''t yet taken on projects from the political circles, they would surely be dealing with them in the future. So, Ophelia had asked Cody toe along to learn.


    The three of them took the elevator to the fourth floor.


    "Ms. Spencer, our seats are in the front row. I''ll be right back after I use the restroom, you two go ahead," Mark said, giving them instructions.


    "Alright," Ophelia replied as she followed Cody into the conference hall.

 Jilted Bride 224

    Projects like this in the political circles often only invited publicly listedpanies to participate in the bidding


    Especially forrge-scale projects like building a railway station,panies had to go through rigorous evaluations before a final candidate was chosen to take charge. "Ms. Spencer, how did we even qualify to be here! And why are we sitting in the front row Cody asked, following closely behind Ophelia, curiosity written all over his face. That''s not your question to ask. I want this project," Ophelia replied.


    Ch. what?" Cody was stunned, wondering if he had misheard her. Her tone made it sound as casual as picking out a piece of clothing


    In Cody''s opinion, with their small firm, taking on a project of this scale seemed far-fetched at best.


    "Did you bring what I asked for?" Ophelia asked.


    "Yes" Cody nodded and was just about to pull the items out of his briefcase when he bumped into someone.


    "Can''t you watch where you''re walking?" he said.


    The voice was somewhat familiar.


    Cody looked up and immediately recognized the face.


    "Andrew Cody frowned slightly.


    Andrew, who had been exposed during a job interview at theirpany, had apparently found employment elsewhere.


    Given his qualifications,nding a position at a publicly listed firm wasn''t surprising.


    "Well, well... it''s you," Andrew said with a smug air.


    In fact, Andrew had noticed them the moment they walked in.


    He hadn''t seen any information linking their small, insignificantpany to the event.


    Did theye here uninvited? Just here for the spectacle? How embarrassing, he thought.


    Dressed in a deep purple suit, Andrew stood with his hands in his pockets, head held high, looking down at others with disdainful eyes


    "Quite the coincidence," Cody said, ncing at Andrew''s seat in the second-tost row. "So, you''re with Fiorda Group! Just joined and already trusted with a project of this magnitude? Your boss must really value you"


    Although Cody found Andrew''s arrogant demeanor annoying, he kept his tone polite since they had attended the same


    school.


    Andrew, failing to detect the sarcasm, took thepliment at face value.


    "Exactly. He thinks highly of me. I led the team that designed this project, Andrew said, boasting "But speaking of this railway station, such a massive undertaking, how could a no-namepany like yours even participate in the evaluation? Impossible." Cody froze, his uneasiness evident in his shifting eyes. This was exactly what had been worrying him


    12:09 Sat, 23 Nov


    Seeing Cody''s expression, Andrew smirked, convinced he had hit the mark.


    "Cody,e on. We were both top students in the architecture department. Sure, you weren''t as good as me, but to end up at such a tinypany? "You''re better than that. Are you even learning anything there? Or getting any chances to showcase your talent? Doesn''t seem like it. Andrew said. Andrew nced at Ophelia. "Honestly, I''m lucky yourpany didn''t hire me back then. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have the opportunities I do today."


    "Cody, we''re ssmates. I''m willing to help you out. If you''vee to your senses and want to switchpanies, I could talk o my manager and get you in as my assistant for a few months. "Learn the ropes, and one day you could be where I am now," Andrew said, his voice dripping with mock sincerity.


    "You..." Cody began, his face flushed with anger.


    "What? Isn''t that better than ving away in apany that has nothing to offer? Following a woman, what future can that possibly bring you?" Andrew said, clearly amused.


    Cody''s face turned bright red with fury, while Ophelia, on the other hand, remained expressionless, seemingly unbothered by the mockery.


    Still not satisfied, Andrew called over his superior.


    "Eliot, I have a ssmate here who''s working at some small firm. Do you think there''s a chance we could bring him into ourpany? Maybe let him assist me for a few months?" Andrew asked. Eliot, who had just finished a phone call, walked over. Around forty years old, he gave Cody and Ophelia a dismissive nce, clearly unimpressed.


    "Do you think just anyone can waltz into Fioeda Group?" Eliot said, his toneced with condescension.


    "Yes, it was my oversight," Andrew replied, his expression polite and humble, though inwardly he''d been waiting for Eliot to say exactly that.


    Andrew turned to Cody, feigning an apologetic look. "I''m really sorry about that. I meant to help, but things didn''t go as nned. I could still ask around for openings at otherpanies for you."


    "I know you''re just trying to make a living, especially with your family''s financial situation, but... humph... working at such a tinypany? My advice? Leave while you still can, Andrew added with a sneer. At that moment, amotion arose near the entrance.


    "Mark""


    "What? Did you just say Mark is here?"


    ""Yes! What''s he doing here?"


    "Does this mean Sinir Group is part of this evaluation?"


    "I didn''t hear anything about that!"


    Eliot quickly turned toward the door, his curiosity piqued. Andrew, clueless about what was happening, followed Eliot''s gaze toward the growing crowd.


    109


    82%


    "Eliot, what''s going on? Who is this Mark?" Andrew asked, noticing how many people were moving toward the entrance.


    "You don''t know? Mark is the chief aide to Keh of the Sinir Group. If we can get on his good side, even losing out on this project would be worth it," Eliot exined.


    Eliot began moving toward the door, with Andrew trailing close behind, momentarily forgetting his earlier mission to humiliate Cody.


    Cody, too, turned his head in curiosity, but the crowd around the entrance was so thick he couldn''t see anything


    "Mark, are you here on behalf of Mr. Sinir today?"


    Mark, does Sinir Group have its sights on the Westiend Railway Station project?"


    "Mark..."


    The entrance buzzed with activity, resembling a media press conference.


    Mark straightened his suit, his gaze scanning the crowd as if searching for someone.


    The people near the entrance instinctively followed his line of sight.


    "Excuse me,ing through, Mark said, walking in the direction where Andrew and Eliot happened to be standing.


    "Quick, go greet him!" Eliot whispered, already stering a wide smile on his face, hands extended in preparation for a handshake.


    But before he could utter a single word, Mark strode past both him and Andrew without so much as a nce, heading straight toward Ophelia.


    "Ms. Spencer, why haven''t you taken your seat yet?" Mark asked.


    Eliot froze in ce,pletely dumbfounded.


    Behind him, Andrew was equally stunned.


    All eyes immediately turned to Ophelia.


    "No rush," Ophelia replied coolly.


    She had been nning to take her seat, b


    seat, but someone had blocked her way


    earlier.


    "This way, Ms. Spencer," Mark said, leading her to her reserved seat with precision.


    The onlookers were utterly floored,


    Mark was known to be Keh Sinir''s right-hand man.


    To outsiders, he was notoriously unyielding and ruthless, mirroring Keh''s own sharp and unforgiving demeanor.


    And yet here he was, treating a youngdy with remarkable respect and even deference.


    Cody followed behind Ophelia in a daze, his mind utterly nk. His legs moved automatically, but his brain wasn''t processing a single thought.


    It wasn''t until he sat down and collected himself that it hit him.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Wait... The guy by Ms. Spencer''s side is Mark from Sinir Group? Cody thought, stunned. Who exactly is Ms. Spencer?


    3/4-


    12:09 Sat, 23 Nov


    How powerful is she to pull this off?"

 Jilted Bride 225

    Andrew''s gaze remained fixed on the three people who had just taken their seats in the front row, unable to snap out of his


    daze.


    He still couldn''t figure out what was going on.


    "Eliot, are you sure that was Mark? Sinir Group''s Mark?" Andrew asked, his toneced with disbelief.


    "What else could it be? And those two people you mentioned earlier... did you even get your facts straight? Honestly, I shouldn''t have brought you along. "Mark only ever acts that deferential to Keh. This is the first time I''ve seen him treat someone else the same way? Eliot replied, his voice filled with regret. Eliot couldn''t help but feel that bringing Andrew here had been a mistake. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have risked offendingContent ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    them.


    Andrew, still doubtful, struggled to reconcile the scene before him.


    "How could Ophelia. just the owner of a small, strugglingpany, possibly know someone as important as Mark? he


    wondered.


    Yet no matter how much he refused to believe it, the facts were staring him in the face.


    Meanwhile, Cody, seatedfortably in the front row, felt a surge of pride. He nced back at Andrew, who was standing there, dumbstruck.


    Cody chuckled inwardly at their astonished expressions.


    "Hey, I''m so lucky to have such an incredible boss like Ms. Spencer in this lifetime, Cody thought.


    "Did you bring everything I asked for?" Ophelia turned her head slightly to ask.


    "Got it," Cody replied quickly, handing over the documents.


    With that, Cody felt a wave of confidence. Ophelia had to be fully determined to win.


    "Ms. Spencer... Mark hesitated, the formal address sounding awkward to him, but he forced himself to continue. "About the railway station project... are you set on acquiring it?" "What''s the matter?" Ophelia asked calmly.


    Mark''s tone carried a hint of difficulty.


    "The Huxley family has shown up. The Huxley family has strong ties to the political circles and seems determined this project as well," Mark said.


    With Keh absent today, the Huxley family was unlikely to give Mark any special consideration.


    Since Zayn took over, he hadn''t shown the same wariness toward the Sinir family that Michael had, clearly harboring other ns.


    Ophelia pursed her lips but remained silent.


    The Huxley family specialized in pharmaceuticals, and their real estate ventures weren''t their primary focus.


    The railway station project was small and hardly worthp


    However, for Ophelia, this project was critical. It was the key to her ns for developing Gloomhaven.


    The Gloomhaven had several undeveloped projects this year. The more she could secure now, the greater her leverage would be when it came to the final development of Gloomhaven. "It''s fine. Let''s wait and see. It''s a three-round evaluation, isn''t it? Ophelia said, unhurriedly


    Her expression n maintained the detachedposure she always showed to outsiders as if nothing ever fazed her


    This demeanor bore an uncanny resemnce to Keh''s


    While Keh''s arrogance was absolute. Ophelia''s indifference felt all-epassing.


    The evaluation soon began.


    The Huxley family sat right next to them, apanied by two highly renowned architects, exuding a professional aura.


    Initially, Cody had felt confident in the materials he had prepared


    But with Mark and the Huxley family now involved, he couldn''t help but feel unsettled.


    What should have been a simple evaluation had turned into something far more significant due to the presence of Mark and the Huxley family.


    Unsurprisingly, the Fioeds Group where Andrew worked was eliminated in the first round of evaluations.


    The remaining two rounds would involve site visits to thepetingpanies.


    "Eliot, why aren''t we leaving yet? What are we waiting for?" Andrew asked, feeling both curious and deeply embarrassed.


    The architectural n Andrew had been so confident about had been dismissed in the very first round.


    He was worried about running into Cody and his team.


    "You''d better apologize to Opheliater and make sure she doesn''t hold a grudge. If possible, try to get her to introduce us to Mark Don''t you have a ssmate who knows her?" Eliot said. Hearing this. Andrew''s face darkenedpletely


    Andrew balked at the idea of apologizing. To him, it was tantamount to admitting he was inferior.


    He didn''t want to.


    He''d already lost enough face at thatpanyst time.


    "Here theye. Go now!" he said, shoving Andrew forward without giving him a chance to resist.


    Cody stepped in front of Ophelia, a protective instinct kicking in.


    However, the moment he recognized Andrew, Cody immediately guessed his intent.


    "Ms. Spencer, I''d like to apologize for earlier. I was out of line. I hope you can forgive me," Andrew said, his tone taking aplete 180-degree turn. His face flushed crimson as he spoke. Cody''s eyes widened in surprise at the sight of Andrew groveling-


    2/4-


    12.09 Sat, 23 Nov


    Wasn''t he acting all high and mighty earlier? What happened to that smug attitude?'' Cody thought, feeling a rush of


    satisfaction.


    The frustration that had been weighing on Cody''s chest vanished instantly.


    He wasn''t the kind of person to kick someone while they were down, otherwise, he would have seized the opportunity thoroughly humiliate Andrew.


    82%


    "Let''s go." Ophelia said curtly, her tone indifferent. She had no intention of wasting time on people like Andrew. There were too many of them to count. The three of them walked off toward the elevator.


    Along the way, several otherpany representatives approached Mark to exchange pleasantries and try to get on his good side


    Once the three stepped into the elevator, the doors hadn''t even fully closed before Eliot''s enraged voice could be heard echoing through the corridor.


    "Are you kidding me? That''s how you apologize? And for what? She didn''t even acknowledge you! Didn''t you say your architectural n was guaranteed to pass? Well? Did it pass?" Eliot''s voice boomed furiously.


    "And now you''ve gone and offended Sinir Group! Andrew, I don''t need you. Pack your things and leave before you drag everyone else down with you!" he added.


    As the elevator doors sealed shut and began descending, Cody let out a deep, contented sigh.


    He''d never felt this vindicated in his entire life.


    "Mark, you can head back first. I need to visit the production team," Ophelia said, breaking the moment of silence.


    "Got it. Should I report this to Mr. Sinir?" Mark asked.


    "No need. I''ll update him myselfter. Cody, I looked over your n earlier. It''s good, but it could be even better. Consider incorporating the suggestions I added. The rest is up to you. Make sure we''re ready for Friday''s evaluation," Ophelia instructed. "Understood." Cody replied, nodding confidently.


    He was already imagining how he''d recount today''s events to his team.


    "Ms. Spencer, does this mean you don''t n to let Sinir Group''s real estate division handle this project?" Mark finally caught on


    "Yes, but I might still need Sinir Group''s assistance, Ophelia said with a calm smile.


    Her goal, however, was to ensure her ownpany yed a significant role in the project.


    Mark didn''t press further. Keh had explicitly told him to follow Ophelia''s instructions without question.


    Recently, Mark had noticed Keh seemed to be grooming Ophelia for something, perhaps even preparing her to take overpletely.


    Mark didn''t understand Keh''s motives, nor did he care to.


    Keh''s orders were absolute. His role was simply toply.


    At the entrance of the Sunrise Hotel, the three went their separate ways.


    3/4-


    12:09 Sat, 23 Nov=T.


    Ophelia, on her way to visit the production team, dialed Keh''s number.


    She wanted to update him but was surprised when the call went unanswered.


    In the past, she might have waited and tried againter, but something about Keh''s behavior that morning had felt off.


    She decided to call Rosewood Manor instead. "Lisa, where''s Keh?" she asked.


    "Mr. Sinir stepped out. I think he went to Sinir Group, Ms. Spencer, Lisa replied politely


    "What time did he leave?" Ophelia pressed.


    Lisa paused to think. "Right after you and Mark left. He didn''t stay long before heading out. Is something the matter, Ms. Spencer?"


    "No, it''s fine. Thanks, Ophelia said, hanging up.


    Next, she called the Sinir Group''s secretary''s office. "Has Mr. Sinir arrived?"


    Hearing Ophelia''s voice, the secretary quickly answered truthfully. "No, Mr. Sinir hasn''t arrived yet."


    "Understood," Ophelia said, ending the call.


    She stared at the time disyed on her phone, her brows knitting together slightly.

 Jilted Bride 226

    Chapter 226 les


    Outside the presidential suite of the Evend Hotel, Keh stood tall, a boseball cap polled low over face


    His long fingers rapped against the dark wooden door.


    Click


    The door opened from the inside, revealing Ivy in a luxurious blush pink silk robe. Her hair caded or shoulder and despite being nearly fifty, her face was wlessly smooth, radiating a youthful beauty Keh, you finally decided to show up?" Ivy said with a smirk, looping her arm through his and ning de


    Kermeth frowned, immediately shrugging her off, his expression dark and forebodin


    "What are you doing in Heloria?" he asked coldly, his narrow eyes glinting with suspicion


    As the door closed behind them, Ivy seated herself gracefully on the sofa, her legs crossed like a priced and re softened as she looked at Keh, a trace of indulgence in her eyes.


    by


    "You didn''te back, so of course I had toe find you. Keh, you didn''t treat me like this in the pretty and gently, her alluring eyes tinged with mncholy.


    "You used to be so well-behaved. Whenever you had nightmares, you''d cling to me and call me Mom Have you forgotten all


    that?


    "Yes, I was a little overbearing, but you know why. I only wanted to avenge your mother. Was I wrong for that?" by sighed and lightly massaged her temples with her fingers.


    Keh''s eyes fell on a few strands of gray in her hair, and for a moment, an indescribable emotion swelled within ham.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Noticing his hesitation, Ivy pressed on. "Your mother was my sister. She was cast out of the family because of a man and met such a tragic end. For nine long years, Keh, you saw the suffering she endured. How could you forget "Keh. Victor has to pay for what he did. Back then, for the Sinir family''s fortune, he used your mocher. Did you know.." Ivy''s voice grew increasingly agitated, but she swallowed the rest of her words.


    "Know what?" Keh''s brow furrowed deeper, his tone sharp.


    He hade here today to get answers.


    "Nothing" Ivy said with a shake of her head.


    Keh let out a coldugh. "What is it that I don''t know? Stop treating me like a fool


    His voice trembled, low and filled with suppressed anger. Looking at the woman in front of him, whose features bore a striking resemnce to his mother''s, all his toughness seemed to dete.


    In that moment of vulnerability, he looked like a lost child, leaving Ivy momentarily conflicted.


    But as her eyes fell on his face, so much like Victor''s in his youth, the haired in her heart quickly overpowered her fleetingpassion.


    Ivy sighed as if conceding


    "Keh. I''m not feeling well. Would you stay and have lunch with me? It''s been ages since we ate together," vy said softly.


    Sat, 23 Nov


    When Keh didn''t respond, she stood up from the sofa and took his hand.


    "Keh..." she called to him gently.


    82%


    Stripped of her usualmanding demeanor, her features bore an uncanny resemnce to Grace''s, and her tender tone) made Keh momentarily dazed.


    "Just stay and have lunch. Afterward, I''ll tell you everything." Ivy said, leading him to the dining table.


    When Keh continued standing there, refusing to sit, Ivy''s patience began to wane. "Do you really want to know that badly?" she asked, her tone sharp. Keh''s resolute gaze was an answer enough.


    Ivy sighed deeply, her expression turning grave. "Do you think your mother, just because she was the Pharmacology Queen''s daughter, could have developed the cure for that virus so easily!"


    She continued, "It was the result of countless trials. She tested it on herself, over and over again. Even without that car ident, your mother wouldn''t have been with you for much longer. "And I... I could only stand by and watch as my sister, my own flesh and blood, faded away, powerless to stop it."


    "Keh, how could I not hate him?" Ivy''s voice trembled with emotion.


    Keh''s eyes flickered, memories of his mother''s frail body flooding his mind.


    "So, I have toxins in my body too, don''t I?" Keh asked quietly.


    Ivy froze, her eyes locking onto his. For a moment, she seemedpletely at a loss.


    "W-what did you say?" Ivy stammered, stepping closer and grabbing his arm. "You''re showing symptoms already, aren''t you?"


    She couldn''t believe it. Over the years, Ivy had been treating him regrly. Her medical expertise far surpassed Grace''s


    Keh''s lips curled into a bitter, self-deprecating smile.


    He guessed right.


    Victor had truly orchestrated an intricate game.


    Keh clenched his fists tightly, veins bulging on his forehead.


    Suddenly, his vision went dark, and his pupils lost focus.


    For a fleeting moment, a wave of fear surged through him, fear that he might never see Ophelia again.


    "Keh..." Ivy''s eyes widened as she waved her fingers in front of his face. Confirming that he couldn''t see, she took two steps back, shock evident in her expression.


    ''Impossible. How could this happen? Has it already spread to his brain?'' she thought, stunned.


    About half a minuteter, Keh''s vision gradually cleared.


    "How long have you been having these symptoms?" Ivy asked urgently. She had always been confident in her medical skills and believed she hadpletely purged the toxins from Keh''s body. But now, she realized the situation was far worse than she had imagined.


    "A little over three months," Keh replied.


    The color drained from Ivy''s face in an instant.


    "How could this happen." she murmured, her tone less about concern for Keh''s condition and more about her own disorientation and loss of direction.


    It took a while before Ivy regained herposure. "Keh, don''t worry. I won''t let anything happen to you... I swear I won''t. And I''ll avenge your mother, too." Keh scoffed coldly.


    ver since he realized his own illness, the thought of revenge had seemed to drift further and further away.


    All Keh wanted now was to spend whatever time he had left with Ophelia, making sure her path ahead was as smooth as possible.


    If he couldn''t protect her forever, he could at leasty the groundwork for her future.


    Seeing the sudden softness in Keh''s gaze, Ivy seemed to understand something. Her eyes filled with unrelenting hatred. "You''ve decided not to seek revenge anymore, haven''t you? It''s because of her, isn''t it?" Ivy had never imagined that Ophelia could mean so much to him.


    Ophelia had be so important that Keh was willing to let go of a hatred he''d held onto for over a decade.


    Ivy couldn''t allow this to happen.


    "Keh..." Ivy began, but Keh raised his hand, cutting her off.


    "I''m warning you. Don''t touch her," he said, his voice calm but carrying an undeniable authority. "A dying man has nothing left to lose."


    With that, Keh turned and walked away without looking back.


    "Keh... Keh..." Ivy called after him.


    Meanwhile, Ophelia arrived at the production team''s set.


    The crew was in the middle of filming a scene where Rex, ying Aiden, had to make a choice between Freya and Franklin.


    At this point in the story, none of their true identities had been revealed, and Freya didn''t know about the connection between Aiden and Franklin.


    However, the tension between the characters was palpable.


    The scene was just a few minutes long, relying entirely on the actors'' expressive gazes to convey the underlying emotions.


    "Cut! No, no, Thomas!" James eximed, frustrated. "As Franklin, you can''t look at Sharon with such deep affection. jook! Even Rex doesn''t give her that much emotion!"

 Jilted Bride 227

    "Seriously, even I don''t act this infatuated," Rex said, breaking character in a second as he shot Thomas a sidelong nce and curled his lip.


    Suddenly, his gaze caught a striking figure in the distance.


    In the crowd, Ophelia stood out like a radiant beacon, effortlesslymanding attention.


    "Ophelia! You finally came to see me!" Rex, like an overexcited giant puppy with admiration in his eyes, bolted toward her, practically wagging his invisible tail.


    The injured makeup still on Rex''s face created a stark contrast to his exuberant demeanor.


    James, who had been preparing to shoot another take, suddenly found his camera devoid of a subject.


    "Ophelia, you don''t even know how amazing I''ve beentely," Rex said with the tone of someone begging for praise.


    Ophelia, used to his antics, humored him with a fewpliments, just enough to keep his confidence intact without inting his ego.


    Meanwhile, Sharon, who had been on camera, immediately stepped off the set as soon as she spotted Ophelia.


    Her beautiful eyes sparkled as if filled with stardust.


    "Hi, Elia..." she said softly.


    Thomas took a deep breath, narrowly avoiding being stepped on the foot as Sharon made her way over.


    ''Is this really my wife? Why doesn''t she ever look at me like that?'' he thought.


    Kevin also noticed Ophelia.


    He rose from his seat under the director''s canopy and approached her with a beaming smile.


    "Elia, what brings you here today?" Kevin''s demeanor had improved significantlytely.


    He was working on a new script, and his overall health seemed rejuvenated. He looked years younger.


    In no time, the key members of the production team had all gathered around Ophelia.


    "I just came to see you all and brought some drinks," Ophelia said, handing the items she was carrying to Feona, who was standing behind Sharon. Feona began distributing them among the crew. Sharon clung to Ophelia''s arm like a ma, showing her usual clingy affection.


    Thomas, with his hands stuffed in his pockets, watched the scene unfold. ''When will she ever cling to me like that?'' Ne wondered.


    "What''s going on here? Is there a problem with this scene?" Ophelia asked after observing the shoot for a while. They had already done three or four takes.


    James, hearing her question, immediately seized the opportunity to vent his frustrations as if he''d finally found someone toin to.


    The entire production team was full of characters. With the support of Ophelia, Kevin, the screenwriter, had more say than James, even though James was the director and also one of the investors. Chapter 227


    Rex was equally a force to be reckoned with, so James couldn''t afford to upset him either. All he could do was grumble to this couple.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Elia, you have no idea. We''ve been shooting this scene since yesterday. These two act like they''re using the production team''s time to date! They won''t follow directions at all. They''re supposed to be mortal enemies, but instead..." Jamesined. +13


    "It''s my fault. I''m still working on adjusting." Thomas interjected, taking responsibility and lowering his head apologetically.


    "Oh, that''s understandable," Ophelia said knowingly. She had already guessed the reason. Thomas usually looked at Sharon with so much affection that it must have been impossible to turn it off during the scene.


    Hearing her words, James sighed heavily and smacked his forehead.


    ''She''s just here to back them up, isn''t she?'' he thought.


    Before Ophelia''s voice had even faded, Feona, standing behind Sharon, let out a long gasp.


    "This is for Ms. Campbell! Could you please have Ms. Campbell sign for it?" Feona eximed.


    A delivery person stepped out of a small truck, revealing a massive bouquet of 999 vibrant red roses. Each flower was lush and wless, adorned with droplets of water, and wrapped in a sleek ck and gray bundle that was both striking and elegant. No woman could resist flowers, especially a bouquet this grand..


    The women on the production team quickly took out their phones to snap pictures and record videos.


    "For me?" Sharon asked in surprise, walking closer to get a better look.


    Her gaze flickered toward Thomas, almost imperceptibly. She had received roses before, but never 999 of them let alone enough to fill the entire bed of a small truck.


    "Ms. Campbell, the sender asked me to tell you that you are his one true love. Even if you get married... he... he''ll still wait for you," the delivery person said, stumbling slightly over thest part.


    As soon as the massive bouquet arrived, every member of the production team turned their attention to Thomas.


    This was a tant challenge.


    Thomas'' expression grew slightly tense.


    Sharon still had a look of delight stered on her face, but upon hearing the flowers weren''t from Thomas, she suddenly seemed unsure whether to ept them or how she should even react. "Ms. Campbell, please sign for them," the delivery person urged.


    "Go ahead and take them. It''s just a fan''s kind gesture," Thomas said with a tight-lipped smile, feigning magnanimity


    "I''ll sign for you. Get back to work and focus on the scene," Ophelia interjected, taking the receipt and signing Sharon''s name.


    "Alright, let''s get moving. Back to filming, one more take." James announced.


    He returned to his position behind the camera.


    "Ophelia, prepare to be amazed. This is my moment to show off my acting skills. As long as Thomas doesn''t mess up, I guarantee we''ll get it in one take," Rex said, raising an eyebrow with exaggerated confidence. Chapter 227


    0000


    For once, Rex wasn''t the one to mess up.


    The makeup team quickly touched up the three actors before they took their positions.


    The moment James called "Action", their expressions and bodynguage shifted seamlessly into character.


    Thomas stood tall, d in a gray suit paired with a turtleneck sweater. With his hands tucked into his trouser pockets, he exuded an icy authority.


    +13


    His expression darkened like an approaching storm as he saw Aiden with another woman, his face so brooding it was nearly palpable.


    ames, initially skeptical, straightened in his chair when he saw Thomas'' performance. He leaned closer to the monitor, his eyes fixed on the screen.


    "This is it. He''s finally got it, James thought, his earlier frustration evaporating.


    Rex, observing the scene, felt vindicated. "That''s the Franklin I envisioned, possessive, intense, he thought.


    Each actor delivered expressions and emotions perfectly tailored to their characters.


    "Cut! That''s a wrap for this shot. Fantastic work! Thomas, you''ve finally nailed it. Keep this energy for the close-ups. James praised as he swiftly prepared to film the next sequence.


    Standing off to the side, Ophelia crossed her arms and observed with satisfaction. Her little strategy had worked.


    ''Men in love are all the same, she mused.


    The calmer they act on the outside, the more jealous they are on the inside.


    Once she was confident things were running smoothly on set, Ophelia decided not to linger too long.


    Before leaving, she called Thomas over. "Were you jealous?"


    "Yes? No," Thomas replied hastily, his tone betraying his denial. "I know Sharon has plenty of admirers." Thomas, technically only Sharon''s husband in name, had no real im to jealousy. At least that was what he told himself. But his expression revealed the truth.


    Ophelia let out a softugh. "That bouquet was from me. I ordered it for Sharon."


    Thomas froze for a brief moment before the realization hit him.


    ''Ms. Spencer nned this? All of it just to get me into character? She''s unbelievable,'' he wondered.


    "Sharon seems to care about you," Ophelia added casually. "After all, the moment she realized the flowers weren''t from you, her happiness disappeared."


    Sharon, that clueless yet charming beauty, still hadn''t realized her feelings for Thomas had shifted.


    Thomas, however, caught on immediately thanks to Ophelia''s remark.


    "Really, Ms. Spencer? Got it. Thank you," he said, his tone sincere.


    "You''re wee," Ophelia replied.


    She left the production team without further dy.


    2:21 Sat, 23 Nov


    B


    But even as she walked away, her mind was elsewhere. Keh still hadn''t returned her call.

 Jilted Bride 228

    As soon as Ophelia left. Thomas turned around and saw Sharon walking toward him.


    "Ms. Spencer is gone," he said


    "Yes, I know, I wasn''t looking for Elia, I was looking for you. Sharon seemed eager to exin the situation with the flowers. Seeing Sharon''s anxious attempt at exnation. Thomas felt his heart swell with sweetness, almost as if he''d just eaten. honey.


    He pulled Sharon into an embrace. "Sharon, you don''t need to exin, I trust you.


    Sharon froze in his arms, instinctively wanting to push him away. But as her handsnded on his waist, she paused.


    She wasn''t sure why, but she found herself wrapping her arms around his waist.


    A broad smile involuntarily spread across her face.


    It wasn''t until Kevin called for them to continue filming that they finally let go of each other.


    Before long, a spoiler started trending online with the hashtag: [Real Couple Forced to Be Rivals.]


    The apanying image showed both of them, in character and out, sharing an embrace and a confrontation. Fans online once again couldn''t help but envy the chemistry between them. Many marketing ounts also put together videos, pairing their previous characters from past dramas.


    On the way back to Sinir Group, Ophelia scrolled through Twitter and saw the post.


    The smile on her lips hadn''t even fully formed before her phone pinged with a text message.


    She opened it to find several photos.


    The background of the photos showed the hallway of the Evend Hotel, with Keh standing at the door in a well-fitted Suit, wearing a ck baseball cap.


    Just from the profile view under the cap, Ophelia immediately recognized the man in the photo,


    She had no idea why Keh was at the hotel.


    She opened the next photo, and her frown deepened.


    In the picture, a woman was linked arm-in-arm with Keh as they walked into a room, and Keh didn''t seem to reject


    her.


    The angle didn''t allow Ophelia to see the woman''s face clearly, but the timestamp showed that it was this morning right when Ophelia had been unable to reach Keh on the phone. Seeing that the message was from an anonymous sender, Ophelia let out a cold huff and deleted both the text and the photos.


    Is this person trying to make me doubt Keh? Not a chance. If there''s one person I''ll never doubt, it''s Keh, she thought. Chapter 228


    However, Keh had been acting a bit strange recently.


    She decided to call Chloe.


    Although she didn''t doubt Keh, she wanted to know who was staying in that room and whether it had anything to do with Keh''s recent changes.


    The phone rang twice before being answered.


    Before Ophelia could speak, Noah''s voice came through the line.


    "Hello? Ophelia, is there something up? We''re at the hospital. Chloe brought Wyatt in for a check-up" he said.


    "Oh She almost forgot that Wyatt had an appointment today. "Okay, never mind then. You two can carry on "Alright." Noah responded.


    At Sinir Group, Ophelia had just stepped into her office when the elevator from the top floor opened. Keh took off his baseball cap, running his long fingers through his hair before casually brushing it back. As he pushed open the office door, Ophelia was just walking to Ms. Spencer''s chair, about to sit down. She looked up at him. "What took you so long to get here?"


    Keh''s eyes concealed a fleeting, unreadable emotion as he tossed the cap aside and walked toward her. "Yes, what''s for lunch?" Keh asked.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing that he didn''t offer any exnation, Ophelia didn''t ask further.


    "How about seafood she suggested, walking over and linking her arm through his.


    Noticing that his mood seemed a little down, she wanted to hug him.


    But as she got closer, she could smell a faint scent of perfume on him, a heavy, floral rose fragrance.


    Ophelia seemed to have smelled it somewhere before, but for the moment, he couldn''t quite ce it.


    "Seafood now!" Keh asked, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear with a loving gaze. Ophelia nodded. "I just saw it and got a craving"


    She had learned how to act a little spoiled with Keh now, her voice sweet and soft.


    Hearing that tone, Keh could do anything for her.


    "Alright, let Mark make a reservation," Keh said.


    Ophelia tilted her head, her clear, bright eyes locking onto his without a blink.


    After a few seconds of silence, Ophelia curved her lips into a smile.


    "No need for that, just downstairs. You can put on your cap, and we''ll walk over," Ophelia said.


    There was even no need for a car.


    81


    "Alright," Keh replied, taking her hand as they headed downstairs.


    Across the street, a new seafood restaurant had just opened, with two rows of colored ribbons in front.


    "Wee, pleasee in. Just the two of you?" a waiter said.


    "Yes, do you have a private room?" Ophelia asked as she linked her arm through Keh''s and they entered. She looked around. There were indeed not many people having seafood for lunch "We do. This way, please, the server led them upstairs to the private ro


    The restaurant''s decor was upscale, with wooden tables and chairs. The private room was separated by folding screens.


    iving it an elegant, refined atmosphere.


    From Keh''s unfamiliar expression, Ophelia could tell that it was probably his first time dining at a seafood restaurant like this.


    In fact, it was Ophelia''s first time eating seafood outside as well. She had only eaten it with Chloe at home before.


    The server handed them the menu.


    Ophelia knew Keh didn''t like spicy food, so she ordered steamed seafood.


    She understood Keh''s preferences well now. What he liked to eat and what he didn''t, after spending so much time together, she knew it all.


    So, she ordered the usual seafood and some vegetables.


    "I didn''t order much. Take a look and see if you want to add anything. We don''t want to waste food with just the two of us," Ophelia said, handing him the menu.


    Keh''s eyes locked on a section of the menu, and he spoke in a low voice. "Let''s add some snails and sea stars.":


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow. "You eat that?"


    She had never seen him eat it before.


    "I don''t, but I thought you might want to," Keh replied.


    Keh had noticed that Ophelia had looked at those dishes a couple of times, so he guessed she wanted to try them.


    Ophelia was surprised that he had figured her out, but at the same time, she felt like Keh knew her so well that every little gesture of hers seemed to be thoroughly understood.


    "That''s all," Keh said, handing the menu back to the server.


    Keh''s deep, pleasant voice,bined with his well-dressed appearance and strong presence, made the young female server nce at him curiously, wondering what the man looked like under the brim of his hat. The server repeated the order and went to arrange the dishes.


    Soon, the seafood dishes were brought to the table.


    While waiting for the food, Ophelia''s phone rang. Her old phone had broken, and she was now using the one Keh had gifted her, which was covered in green rhinestones. It was almost too bright to hold.


    She thought it might be Chloe returning her call, but it was actually an unfamiliar number.


    12-11 Sat, 23 Nov


    Before she could answer, a woman''s voice came from outside the screen.


    "Elia, is that really you? I thought I was seeing things!" Phoebe hung up the phone in her hand and appeared at the door. wearing an elegant long dress, her face bright with a smile.


    Thest time Ophelia had seen Phoebe was at Waston, Jonathan''s base.


    At that time, Phoebe had been tortured terribly by Keh''s people. Ophelia couldn''t help but admire her for havin courage to stand there now.


    Phoebe walked in, her gaze seemingly just noticing the man across from Ophelia, and she froze mid-step.


    Keh, you''re here too. Sorry to interrupt your meal... Phoebe said.


    "Leave," Keh said coldly, without even looking at her.


    Phoebe looked hurt but didn''t dare to say anything. When she looked at Ophelia, she forced a smile.


    Phoebe''s pitiful expression made anyone who saw it feel sorry for her.


    Ophelia frowned as the scent of seafood mixed with a strong rose fragrance rushed toward her.

 Jilted Bride 229

    The intense scent of roses mixed with the faint fragrance of Keh''s perfume, the same as earlier.


    ''Phoebe? No way. The person Keh met couldn''t possibly be Phoebe, Ophelia silently rejected the idea in her mind as she wondered.


    "Elia, you


    and Keh enjoy your meal. I''ll leave you two alone, Phoebe said in a humble tone, quietly retreating from the private room.


    Ophelia smiled slightly, waiting until Phoebe left before continuing.


    Ophelia ced both hands on the wooden table, leaning forward slightly.


    The warmth filled the space between her and Keh, and she gazed deeply into his eyes, studying him for a long while.


    "What''s the matter?" Keh asked, frowning.


    Ophelia lowered her voice, propping her chin up. "Ivy came to Denex, didn''t she?"


    The only woman Ophelia could think of who Keh would never refuse was his aunt.


    Is Ivy trying to make me misunderstand on purpose? Too bad, she''s underestimated how much I trust Keh, Ophelia thought to herself.


    "How d


    lo you know?" Keh asked. He hadn''t intended to tell her. There were many things she was better off not knowing


    "Someone deliberately sent me a photo of you going to the Evend Hotel today. The perfume you''re wearing is the same as Phoebe''s. You wouldn''t meet her alone, so... I guessed it," Ophelia exined. Ophelia looked like a little fox, her eyebrows raised in a yful, almost smug way.


    Keh lowered his gaze, trying to catch a hint of the scent on himself, but all he could smell was seafood.


    He hadn''t even noticed


    "Didn''t you get jealous when you saw those pictures?" he asked.


    Keh''s concerns were always so unique.


    "Jealous? Of course, I was. If I said I wasn''t at all, I''d be lying. But I trust you. I believe you wouldn''t hide something from me without a reason, right?" Ophelia said.


    Her words carried a double meaning as if referring to this matter but possibly hinting at something else.


    "Yes, be carefultely, Keh said.


    Ivy was skilled in pharmaceuticals, especially poisons, and her methods were difficult to anticipate.


    Keh truly didn''t know what she might do if he went against her will.


    At that thought, his brows furrowed even more.


    Under the ck brim of his cap, his jaw clenched slightly.


    "Don''t worry. I''ll be careful. Ophelia reassured him.


    Sat, 23 Nov


    She wasn''t sure if Phoebe was hiding nearby eavesdropping on their conversation, so she decided to wrap up the topic. quickly.


    The dishes were brought to the table, and Ophelia picked up her fork and began to eat.


    As she enjoyed the sea stars and snails, Ophelia felt content.


    Compared to her, Keh maintained his usual elegance, even when eating seafood.


    81%


    When they left the private room, Ophelia spotted Phoebe through the screen, sitting diagonally across, also eating seafood.


    She was sitting across from a man who looked somewhat familiar.


    After a moment of thought, Ophelia recognized him. It was Hendrick, the man she had fired from her designpany. Ophelia was surprised to see them eating together.


    As the two passed by, Phoebe quickly stood up, stepping out from behind the screen.


    "Elia, have you finished eating already?" Ophelia asked.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Yes, you... enjoy your meal," Ophelia smiled, linking her arm with Keh''s, not looking back.


    Phoebe watched them leave, and despite her efforts, they were as close as ever, just as she had hoped.


    "Ms. Davidson, the person you were about to greet earlier was her?" Hendrick asked.


    When Hendrick saw Ophelia, the memory of being kicked out of thepany flooded back, stirring up anger in his chest. But in front of Phoebe, he forced himself to suppress it. "Ms. Davidson, I''m sorry you had toe to this little restaurant, Hendrick said, apologetically.


    "It''s fine. It''s my first time here, and the food is quite good. How''s everything going at yourpany?" Phoebe asked, her emotions well hidden.


    Hendrick nodded, peeling a few shrimp and cing them onto her te. "It''s going well, thanks to you, Ms. Davidson."


    "Hey, don''t be so formal. Just call me Phoebe," she said.


    Hendrick''s checks turned slightly red, his gaze lowered, unable to meet Phoebe''s


    eyes.


    "Phoebe, are you and Ophelia... really that close?" Hendrick asked.


    He didn''t buy it. Ophelia was so proud, there was no way she saw Phoebe as a friend.


    Phoebe hesitated, her lips curling into a forced smile, one that seemed almost painful to look at.


    "What''s wrong? Did Ophelia never see you as a friend? Or did she bully you? Tell me, and I''ll help you get back at her." Hendrick blurted out, frustration choking him


    Hendrick had never gotten over being kicked out of thepany by Ophelia, and seeing the woman he cared for seemingly enduring some kind of mistreatment just made him feel worse. He was determined to let it out, no matter what.


    Phoebe shook her head repeatedly. "No, it''s not like that. Elia is busy with her work at Denex University... maybe that''s why she''s been distant. She''s not... she''s not..." 12:11 Sat, 23 Nov T


    81%


    ''She''s teaching at Denex University? A woman like her, with had character, could never be a professor? Hendrick thought to himself


    After thinking for a moment, Hendrick spoke again. "Phoebe, I know you''re kind-hearted. If there''s anything you need, feel free to ask. I''ll go to any lengths for you."


    Phoebe looked at Hendrick across the table, and she slowly poured out her grievances to him.


    The next day. Ophelia was scheduled to visit Sinir Group in the morning, and her sses at Denex University were in the afternoon..


    "Don''t go to Denex University to teach. It''s too exhausting." Keh said, his voice full of concern as he gently stroked her cheek with his finger.


    She had just gained a little weight recently, but now she had lost it again.


    Right now, she was almost like when she first took over Sinir Group. Thepany was massive, and she had so much to learn.


    Keh truly feared that one day, without him, she wouldn''t be able to handle all the old men in thepany.


    "Alright, I''ll tell Mr. Glenn after this week''s sses," Ophelia agreed.


    She really was feeling overwhelmed.


    Keh ruffled her hair, his expressionplicated, unreadable.


    "I have to go to Mgia tonight. I need to deal with some matters regarding Death Guild," Keh said.


    "Alright, let Mark go with you," Ophelia replied.


    "He has to help you manage Sinir Group. I''ll be back in two days, no need for anyone to follow me," Keh said.


    Ophelia nodded obediently.


    The moment Ophelia left the office, she immediately sent Ray away and found Eric privately.


    There were only a few people she could trust.


    "You want me to follow Keh?" Eric asked, his lollipop dangling from his mouth as he raised an eyebrow.


    His expression seemedplicated. "Are you suspecting him of cheating?"


    He asked seriously, though his face seemed to say, "If he is, I''ll help you kill him."


    "No, I''m just worried about him," Ophelia exined.


    "Then what about Ray? He''s Mr. Sinir''s man. If I leave suddenly, he''ll definitely get suspicious." Eric pointed out.

 Jilted Bride 230

    This was what Ophelia was considering.


    "How about... we make it a bit more direct! Lock him up, tie him up, and gag him? That way, he won''t be able to speak" Eric''s deep eyes glinted with excitement, as though he was eager to take this approach Ophelia raised one eyebrow, meeting Eric''s serious expression.


    Uh....is this a bit too extreme? Ophelia thought


    Alright, I''ll try talking to him first. If that doesn''t work... then we''ll go with your n," she said.


    Eric nodded repeatedly, the long strands of hair at his temples swaying with the motion.


    Ray returned with two drinks. "Mrs. Sinir, here''s your coffee. This one''s yours, a smoothie with red beans and coconut jelly."Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Eric happily took it, inserted a straw, and took a big sip. "Why does it taste nd? Didn''t you add sugar?"


    He looked at Ray, his brows furrowing.


    You''d better agreeter, or... I''ll definitely have to tie you up. And that''s not enough, I''ll starve you for three days, Eric thought


    It was all because this smoothie tasted bad without sugar, angering Eric.


    The ck SUV headed toward Denex University.


    Ophelia nced back through the rearview mirror. "Ray..." Ray froze


    for


    a moment, his back stiffening, and his facial stubble seemed to tremble with shock. "Mrs. Sinir.... please don''t speak to me like that..."


    Is she trying to scare me? Why does her tone sound so creepy? Ray thought,


    Ray still clearly remembered the time Keh kicked him. If Keh had kicked any harder, at least two of his ribs "would''ve been broken.


    "When Keh asked you to protect me, did he say anything to you?" Ophelia asked casually, her tone as light as if they were just talking about everyday matters.


    "Mr. Sinir said to follow your orders and ensure your safety, Mrs. Sinir." Ray recited the words like a mantra.


    Ophelia smirked, her eyes curving with amusement.


    "Yes, I need Eric to help me with some personal matters, and I don''t want Keh to know about it," she said.


    "So this is what it''s about, Ray thought.


    Ray was torn, but his curiosity about the personal matter got the better of him.


    "Is it dangerous? If so, I should go instead." Ray''s voice was gravelly.


    As soon as he spoke, Eric, still sucking on his straw, looked over at the rugged Keh beside him, his loyal eyes showing a hint of doubt. Chapter 230


    181%


    "You want to track Keh! Are you sure?" he asked.


    Track... Mr. Sinir?" Ray was clearly caught off guard. He was surprised by Ophelia''s request to follow Keh and understood why she didn''t want Keh to find out.


    But if Keh found out Eric was following him, well, Eric would likely find himself in hot water....


    "Maybe I should go after all," Ray said, his brows furrowing as he nced at Eric. "I''m more familiar with Mgia."


    "You two can go together. It''s only for two days anyway. Ophelia wasn''t about to let Ray go alone.


    After all, Ray worked for Keh, and if Keh found out. Ophelia wouldn''t have the chance to know what was going on.


    Eric was different.


    He wasn''t afraid of Keh and was fully on Keh''s side.


    "But..." Ray started to protest.


    I''ll protect myself. If Keh takes it out on me, I''ll handle it," Ophelia said.


    Ray sighed deeply but then remembered how Ophelia had managed to escape Jonathan''s clutches and even blow up the Davidson family''s base. He should trust Ophelia, just like Eric did. And by trusting Ophelia, he also trusted Keh.


    After all, Keh''s woman couldn''t be ordinary.


    "Alright." Ray nodded.


    The car arrived at the west gate of Denex University.


    Ophelia got out of the car, still with some time before her afternoon ss.


    She nned to go find Raphael and inform him to arrange for someone to take over her position as soon as possible next


    week.


    Just as she reached the stairway on the second floor, a girl with her head lowered hurriedly rushed downstairs.


    Ophelia wasn''t quick enough to dodge and was bumped hard on the shoulder.


    "Sorry, sorry." The voice sounded somewhat familiar.


    Ophelia turned to look at her.


    The girl raised her head, looking like a frightened rabbit, with eyes red and a nose tip that was also pink.


    It was Lesly.


    As soon as Lesly saw Ophelia, she immediately looked relieved, as if she had found a savior.


    *Professor Spencer... Lesly sniffled, her voice shaky.


    Seeing Lesly in such a panicked state, Ophelia seemed to understand what was happening.


    "Professor Spencer... What should I do? Mr. Gross.." Lesly didn''t finish her sentence before Zackary, strolling casually out of


    12:11 Sat, 23 Nov 0


    the office, interrupted her words,


    "Professor Spencer, you''re here. I''ve arranged the afternoon sses. Where are you headed?" he asked.


    To find Mr. Glenn." Ophelia replied.


    81%


    "Oh, Mr. Glenn might not be here today. How about... if you have something to discuss, you can talk to me in my office?" Zackary suggested.


    While Zackary spoke, Lesly kept her head lowered, her body trembling uncontrobly.


    "Professor Spencer, then.... I''ll head back to the ssroom," Lesly said hastily, and hurried down the stairs.


    Ophelia looked up and met Zackary''s gaze. He sighed. "Today''s college students have such low emotional resilience. A few words of criticism and this is how it ends." Ophelia mocked inwardly.


    "Professor Spencer, what''s the matter with Mr. Glenn?" Zackary asked.


    Ophelia exined her intentions, and Zackary expressed his regret but said he understood.


    "Since Mr. Glenn''s not here, please have Mr. Gross pass the message to him. I''ll head to ss now." She turned and walked downstairs.


    By the time Ophelia arrived at the ssroom, Lesly''s mood had calmed down quite a bit.


    After ss. Ophelia called Lesly over.


    Was there something you wanted to tell me earlier?" Ophelia asked.


    Ophelia knew all too well what Zackary had done to these female students. He used threats of failing them in exams or withholding their graduation certificates to coerce them, using his mild-mannered demeanor to do things that girls couldn''t speak about. Even if some girls tried to speak out, no one would believe them.


    Zackary knew how to turn the situation around, and that''s exactly why he could get away with so much.


    "No, it''s nothing. Lesly said, looking down.


    Lesly had done something terribly wrong in the past, and now she was too embarrassed to ask Ophelia for help.


    T''ll give you one chance," Ophelia said coldly and sternly.


    "Professor Spencer, could you give me a contact number? I... I... Lesly stammered.


    She couldn''t finish the sentence.


    Ophelia didn''t make it hard for her and gave her the contact details.


    Not long after she left the school, Ophelia received a message from Lesly.


    Lesly: [Professor Spencer, Mr. Gross said I should book a room for hint on Saturday, and if I don''t do it, I should be ready to face the consequences.]


    Is He starting to threaten her? Ophelia wondered.


    12:11 Sat, 23 Nov T


    Ophelia decided that before she left, she would take care of this scumbag


    Ophelia: [I''ll contact you Saturday morning.]


    After sending the message, Ophelia drove to the Electronics Market,


    815


    Therge Electronics Market was bustling, but she headed down to the basement and walked toward a small, inconspicuous shop in the corner.


    Two pinhole cameras," she said.


    "Hey... beautiful, it''s you," the shopkeeper, a man in his twenties, said in a messy, unkempt manner. Two pinhole cameras..."


    He muttered as he took two cameras from behind the counter. "Beautiful, you''re not a secret agent, are you? How was the camera and jammer you boughtst time? Did they work well?" "They were fine. How much is it?" Ophelia asked.


    He quoted the price, and after Ophelia paid, she took the items and left.


    He watched her leave, then picked up an old-fashioned phone, stretching its cord out as he dialed a number.

 Jilted Bride 231

    It wasn''t even redirected to voicemail.


    He sighed, scratching the back of his neck, feeling a bit frustrated. "Five years...."


    This number had gone from being powered off, to disconnected, and now it no longer even existed.


    It seemed this number just wouldn''t go through anymore.


    ''What a bad stroke of luck. I should''ve known better. I shouldn''t have taken on this mission in the first ce, he thought.


    Now, he had to work just to make ends meet. Probably no one would believe he was an agent.


    Ophelia walked out of the Electronics Market and drove toward thepany.


    It had been a few days since shest went there.


    Through the rearview mirror, she nced back and noticed a few stalkers.


    Ophelia wondered who it could be. Ray and Eric had just left, and she had already been targeted.


    She slowed down, and the light gray van that had been following her for two blocks suddenly sped up and cut in front of -her, making a sharp stop.


    She mmed on the brakes to avoid a collision.


    It was obvious they wereing after her.


    Ophelia slowed down even more, trying to switch to anotherne, but the van, no matter whichne she switched to, intentionally sped up and blocked her, swerving in front of her.


    Ophelia turned into a quiet alleyway, but the van followed her in, using the same tactic, blocking her again.


    This time, Ophelia didn''t brake. Instead, she floored the gas pedal.


    Bang!


    The ck SUV crashed into the van''s front end.


    She had eased up a bit on the impact.


    But the van was still cracked open, its front body shattered, pieces flying up like stic, breaking with a brittle snap. Meanwhile, the ck SUV didn''t move an inch, not even a scratch, and Ophelia inside remained perfectly still. The people in the van cursed loudly and climbed out. Each of them was armed with a weapon, surrounding her SUV from all sides.


    They had clearlye prepared.


    The bald man in the front walked toward Ophelia, the rubber baton pointing straight at her nose.


    "Didn''t you see? You actually dared to crash into us? Who gave you the guts, huh?" The bald man had tattoos on his head, yellow teeth, and a fierce, menacing expression.


    Even if someone happened to pass by, they wouldn''t dare step forward. This group was too intimidating, clearly not to be messed with.


    "Get out of the car," one of theckeys knocked on the hood of the ck SUV.


    Ophelia slowly lowered the window, propping her head up with one hand. There was a hint of defiance in her eyes, like azy cat under the sun, too unbothered to care.


    "You wanna get out yourself, or should we help you by smashing your car?" theckey shouted.


    "Go ahead and smash it." Ophelia leaned back against the seat, calmly watching them.


    Hearing her dismissive tone, the bald man furrowed his brows under his shiny head, looking around.


    This alleyway didn''t have any cameras.


    "You think we won''t do it?" he said.


    "You''ve got the nerve to tantly stage a scam, so what wouldn''t you dare do? Go ahead and smash it. I won''t stop you." Ophelia shrugged, her clear eyes staring at them with an innocent look, like she waspletely harmless. "Humph... that''s what you say," the bald man sneered.


    He was surprised at how unfazed she seemed by all this.


    "I said it," she repeated.


    Ophelia''s voice suddenly became steady and low, her smile from the moment before instantly fading. When she lifted her eyelids, it was like a devil who had traveled the world, a cold, calcting presence. "Smash it, huh?" Ophelia''s voice was cold as ice as if they had no choice but to smash it today.


    the bald man, who had been so arrogant just moments ago, couldn''t help but swallow hard. A chill ran Meeting her gaze, down his spine, and goosebumps spread all over his body. "Smash it." Ophelia''s tone deepened.


    The bald man was actually so intimidated by her that he took a step back. When he realized he had been scared by a woman, a surge of embarrassment and anger rushed to his head. "Fine. Smash it," the bald man ordered, and hisckeys, who had only been nning to intimidate and extort some money, were caught off guard. They had only intended to scare her.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    As they hesitated, Ophelia pushed open the car door and stepped out.


    "You guys didn''t smash it when you had the chance. I gave you the opportunity," Ophelia said.


    Before they could even process her words, Ophelia snatched the rubber baton from the bald man''s hand and walked to their


    van.


    Bang! Bang!


    A few swingster, the van''s windows were shattered, and even the hood was destroyed. What had once been a fine vehicle wreck. was now nothing more than a


    Ophelia held the baton upright, resting it on her wrist, and surveyed the group.


    "I''ve gotten out of the car. What are you nning to do now?" she said.


    The bald man blinked, staring at the woman before him, not expecting to be provoked.


    "Dammit. You really are asking for it," the bald man spat on the ground, swinging his fist at Ophelia.


    There were no rules about not hitting women here.


    Theckeys behind him followed suit.


    They had never met such an arrogant woman. They were going to teach her a lesson, make her pay.


    Ophelia threw the baton horizontally, it spun quickly in mid-air and urately hit the bald man in the chest.


    Before he could react, Ophelia kicked him, sending him flying. "Ah!"


    The group watched in shock as the bald man flew at an odd angle.


    He crashed heavily into the van''s sliding door, causing it to break off halfway and fall awkwardly to the ground.


    The others behind them gasped in shock.


    They could bluff, but when they met someone who was truly dangerous, they didn''t dare go any further. They all shrank back, too scared to approach.


    "You... you guys bettere at her. Damn it. Show her what''sing..." the bald man wheezed, clutching his chest, still yelling, even though he could barely breathe. "Think carefully," Ophelia said, her words deliberate.


    After her warning, two more reckless men charged at her, throwing their weapons toward her.


    Ophelia swiftly dodged, then moved forward in an instant. Her moves were deadly, but just as the blows would''ve been fatal, she lightened her grip.


    If they thought Ophelia was showing mercy and giving them a way out, they couldn''t be more wrong.


    She was like a cat with a mouse. She wouldn''t stop until it was dead.


    "Miss... I... I was wrong... Please, please let me go..." he cried out.


    A blonde man, terrified, dropped to his knees, begging.


    It was truly terrifying.


    He had never been so utterly helpless in a fight.


    The rest of the group froze, too scared to move, all dropping their weapons and running away,


    "Come back." Ophelia''s voice was calm but chilling, and the men who had just run froze as if they were paralyzed.


    "Tell me. Who sent you to cause trouble?" Ophelia didn''t bother to fight any longer, nor did she care to waste time on them.


    "I''ll talk... It''s... it''s Finn''s cousin." The blonde man who had begged earlier pointed at the bald man on the ground. Ophelia''s eyes shifted to him. "Your cousin?"


    The bald man instinctively shrank back.


    1


    "Who?" she asked sharply, her voice more unsettling.


    "It... it''s Hendrick," he hesitated.


    ''It''s Hendrick''s fault. Why did he have to send us to deal with a woman like this?'' they wondered.


    Finn regretted it with all his heart, his chest burning with frustration.


    Ophelia had already figured it out.


    Suddenly, an idea struck her, and a smile crept onto her lips.


    She looked harmless, but when these men saw her smile, they felt a chill run down their spines.


    "Don''t be scared. As long as you do as I say..."

 Jilted Bride 232

    The narrow, dark alley was utterly silent.


    Ophelia drove off and headed to the office.


    Having been dyed earlier, she arrived to find that most of the staff had already gone home. Only Marilyn and Chloe were still waiting for her.


    "Hi, Ophelia," they greeted.


    Chloe looked up and set down her phone. "I was just about to call you."


    "I got caught up in something on the way," Ophelia exined.


    Chloe handed her an invitation. "This is from the Heloria Designers Association. They''re holding aworking event this Saturday at the Cloudin Hotel. Do you want to check it out?" Marilyn, unable to contain her excitement, chimed in softly, "I got an invitation too! Ophelia, we can go together."


    Ophelia nced at the invitation in her hands.


    Chloe added, "With thepany expanding, it''s a good opportunity to recruit a couple of designers."


    Chloe had ns to spend the weekend with Wyatt, and Keh wasn''t around either.


    "Alright, I''ll check it out on Saturday." Ophelia agreed.


    "Yay... that''s great!" Marilyn beamed, her dimples showing adorably.


    But her smile quickly faded.


    "Ophelia, recently some of our evening gown designs and patterns have been shing with Huxley Fashion''s clothing line. There''s been some negative buzz online," said Marilyn. Marilyn handed her a tabletptop, and Ophelia briefly scanned the content.


    Huxley Fashion was a clothing brand owned by the Huxley family, which had previously offered her shares in thepany. Because of Phoebe''s involvement, Ophelia had sold her shares at a low price to someone else. Now, with this incident happening, it was hard not to suspect Phoebe''s involvement.


    Ophelia swiped throughparison images. One was an evening gown with blue-and-white patterns, and the other was a two-piece traditional-style outfit with simr motifs. The designs were so alike they could easily be mistaken for the same brand.


    Moreover, La Reverie had always prided itself on unique designs. For something this tantly simr to appear was bound to attract criticism online.


    "Look into which stage the leak happened." Ophelia instructed.


    She trusted her designers wouldn''t giarize, especially since she had personally selected the design.


    The final product had been a coborative effort with two designers, and as soon as the prototype waspleted, this issue arose. It had to be a problem in the intermediate stages.


    "Yes, we''re already investigating." Marilyn said as she left the room.


    Once Marilyn was gone, Chloe broke the silence. "Earlier on the phone, you mentioned taking over Sinir Group. What did you mean by that?"


    "I''m not entirely sure myself. It''s all Keh''s arrangement." Ophelia admitted openly. "But I do n to use Sinir Group to develop Gloomhaven."


    If it were just up to her, obtaining the development rights for Gloomhaven could take years, if not decades.


    But with Sinir Group''s backing, it was a different story.


    It eliminated many unnecessary hurdles.


    "Mr. Sinir agreed to let you develop Gloomhaven?" Chloe asked.


    "Not only did he agree, he''s been very supportive. He handed Sinir Group over to me. How''s that for support?" Ophelia smiled.


    Even as she said this, Ophelia couldn''t shake the strange feeling in her chest.


    At first, Keh had opposed the idea. She had taken it as him trying to protect her, not wanting her to hit a dead end. Butter, he inexplicably changed his mind, not only agreeing but entrusting her with Sinir Group. It was neither normal nor rational.


    But then again, this was Keh. The man was bold enough tomit a double suicide for his beloved one if it came to that He could do anything.


    Though this matter didn''t make sense logically, it seemed perfectly in character for Keh.


    Ophelia carefully reflected on that time travel incident, wondering if anything unusual had happened.


    But Ophelia realized that back then, she hadn''t paid enough attention to Keh.


    As a result, she couldn''t recall any useful information.


    "Do you think Mr. Sinir suddenly agreeing is suspicious?" Chloe asked.


    Chloe always had a knack for reading Ophelia.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow but didn''t borate further. Instead, she shifted the topic.


    "Is Noah still staying at your ce?" said Ophelia.


    Chloe lowered her gaze, her lips pressing into a tight line.


    Just from her expression, Ophelia knew the answer was yes.


    "Honestly, having someone around to help isn''t a bad thing." Ophelia smiled.


    After all, Ophelia had noticed that Chloe looked much better these days, healthier and less worn outpared to when she was living alone.


    Chloe didn''t want to dwell on the topic.


    She straightened her posture and changed the subject. "This year, the Gloomhaven has three major projects, the railway station, the sports arena, and the public library. "Securing all three would give you the leverage to start negotiations with the political circles about the Gloomhaven redevelopment."


    "Yes." Ophelia nodded, realizing she had been inadvertently drawn into the momentum of Chloe''s determination. "I''m currently working on the railway station project." "Good luck. I''ll take care of thepany here while you''re focused on that," Chloe said.


    The two exchanged a nce, a resolute fire gleaming in both their eyes.


    The designer conference was scheduled for 10 a.m. on SaturdayBelonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    The following day, before heading out, Ophelia texted Lesly, instructing her to arrange a meeting at the Cloudin Hotel


    Once the conference wrapped up, Ophelia intended to handle that troublemaker properly.


    This event gathered designers from across Denex, including those who had traveled from out of town specifically for the


    asion.


    The venue was tastefully decorated, with soft piano music drifting through every corner, lending an elegant ambiance. Though called aworking conference, it was more of an annual opportunity for designers to mingle and expand their horizons. Of course, there were always those who attended solely to size each other up and unt their achievements.


    Marilyn had arrived a bit earlier than Ophelia. It was her first time attending such an event, and everything piqued her euriosity, like a girl who hadn''t seen much of the world.


    Marilyn recognized a few prominent figures, designers she''d only ever seen online, the association president, and some contestants she''dpeted against in a TV designpetition.


    Over the past six months, many of them had undergone significant changes.


    If she hadn''t met Ophelia and hadn''t been brought into La Reverie, Marilyn doubted she''d have had the opportunity to attend such an event.


    "Well, well... who do we have here? Isn''t this Mara? How did you manage to get an invite here?" a fashionably dressed woman wearing towering heels said mockingly.


    She nced down at Marilyn''s modest attire with tant disdain.


    ''Does she really belong here?'' she wondered as she mocked.


    "Didn''t you cling to Brock after some second-ratepetition? Sucked up to him all the way to the finals, didn''t you?


    "So who''s your new meal ticket now, huh? You''ve done pretty well for yourself, making it into a ce like this." Her tone was ironic.


    At her words, Marilyn frowned. She had never clung to Brock.


    Uninterested in engaging, Marilyn turned to leave, only to have her path blocked.


    Two women in impossibly high heels nked her, effectively boxing her in. They loomed over her, their condescending gazes making her feel small.


    "Oh, don''t leave so soon. Can''t take a little joke?" one said.


    "What''s the matter? Are you upset already? Wow, talk about being touchy," the other chimed in.


    85%

 Jilted Bride 233

    Marilyn came to a halt, taking a deep breath. ''Is this a joke? Am I being petty?'' she wondered.


    She looked at the woman blocking her path. "Olivia, what exactly are you trying to do?"


    "We''re just chatting... Why so worked up? I''m just curious how someone who didn''t even deserve to serve me in the day managed to be the chief designer of La Reverie. Just sharing tips, that''s all," she mocked Olivia Reed crossed her arms, her low V-neckline revealing a generous amount of cleavage. "Maybe you can teach us a thing or two about whatever shady tricks you used."


    Her words dripped with sarcasm.


    This wasn''t about exchanging ideas. It was clearly about humiliating Marilyn.


    "Move," Marilyn said, forcing down the urge to curse as she ground the words out through clenched teeth.


    Her image now represented La Reverie. She couldn''t afford to embarrass Ophelia. She''d endure it for now.


    "Humph... Feisty, aren''t you? Big enough to do it, but not big enough to admit it?" Olivia stepped in her way again, radiating the kind of smug defiance that practically screamed. ''What can you do about it?'' she wondered. Marilyn frowned, tilting her head to look at the woman before her. Her eyes were red with anger.


    She didn''t think she had done anything wrong.


    Taking another deep breath, Marilyn swallowed the words on the tip of her tongue and prepared to walk around her.


    "No need to rush off... What''s the matter? Now that you''re a chief designer, you think you''re too good for old ssmates like us?" Olivia taunted, her tone dripping with mockery.


    Marilyn couldn''t hold back any longer. "Don''t block the way."


    "Who are you shouting at? With manners like yours, how do you even deserve to be here? Olivia retorted. She wasn''t pleased that Marilyn, a girl with no family background, stood out so much at school. Marilyn was top of their ss, campus beauty despite her humble roots, and got a full schrship. Everything Marilyn had achieved was something Olivia could only dream of.


    And now, less than a year after graduating, Marilyn was already making waves in the fashion design world.


    ''Why?'' Olivia roared inwardly.


    "She doesn''t need your approval to be here." A calm voice rang out from behind Marilyn.


    Ophelia walked over at an unhurried pace, her steps perfectly synchronized with the rhythm of the piano music in the background.


    "Ophelia!" Marilyn broke free of Olivia''s grasp and ran to Ophelia''s side.


    All the unease Marilyn had been feeling vanished in an instant. Seeing Ophelia felt like finding her anchor in a storm.


    Ophelia cast a brief nce at Marilyn. A moment ago, she had looked downcast and dispirited, but now her eyes sparkled like stars at the sight of her.


    The expression reminded Ophelia of Rex.


    5


    With a stern expression, Ophelia looked at Marilyn. "You were recruited into La Reverie for your talent. Why are you embarrassed to admit it?


    "Do you think just anyone can design for La Reverie? Keeping such a low profile that you let others walk all over you... isn''t that a p in my reputation?" Though her words sounded like criticism, Marilyn felt deeply moved by them.


    "I''m sorry, Ophelia. It won''t happen again," Marilyn said.


    With Ophelia backing her up, there was nothing to be afraid of.


    Olivia''s arrogance evaporated like water on a hot stove. The moment she saw Ophelia, she shrank back, suddenly meek and submissive, like a frightened ostrich.


    She knew exactly that Ophelia was the founder of La Reverie and an untouchable figure in the design world. Nervously, Olivia started inching away.


    "Don''t be in such a hurry, Olivia. Let''s catch up. Why don''t you tell me what qualified you to be here?" Marilyn asked, mimicking Olivia''s earlier tone.


    Earlier, Marilyn''d been so focused on avoiding conflict that she hadn''t even considered this question.


    She now was wondering how Olivia, a mere designer for a small brand, got invited to an event hosted by the Designers Association.


    Marilyn had only meant to scare Olivia, but the sudden guilt on Olivia''s face made her wonder if there was more to it. Olivia swallowed nervously. "Of course, I''m qualified to be here! I''m a designer at Huxley Fashion." Standing off to the side, Ophelia suddenly chuckled.


    ''Well, she''s walked right into that one,'' she wondered.


    Ophelia had actually reviewed the designer profiles for Huxley Fashion before. As far as she remembered, there was no Olivia on their roster.


    Raising an eyebrow, she turned to look at Phoebe, who was seated on a nearby sofa. "Phoebe, you''re the head of Huxley Fashion. Do you recognize her?"


    Phoebe froze, her eyes locking with Ophelia''s. She hadn''t expected Ophelia to notice where she was sitting, let alone call her


    out.


    After a brief moment of stunned silence, Phoebe stood and made her way over.


    "Hi, Elia," she greeted Ophelia warmly before turning to give Olivia an once-over.


    "Ourpany''s pretty big. There are plenty of designers I haven''t met yet. But if she has an invitation, she must have been cleared to attend," Phoebe said tactfully, careful not to offend anyone.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "I do have an invitation! I do!" Olivia blurted, though her anxious demeanor made it look like she was ready to flee the


    scene.


    A few minutester, a staff member entered the room apanied by security. They approached Olivia directly. "Are you


    upon


    verification, your invitation was found to be counterfeit. We''ll have to ask you to leave." Olivia Reed? Apologies, but


    "That''s impossible! I paid for it!" Olivia blurted in her panic. The moment the words left her mouth, her face paled as she realized her slip.


    Sun,


    The room erupted in stifledughter.


    It was supposed to be free.


    3


    The truly capable were always invited. Those who weren''t good enough wouldn''t even make it through the door.


    Olivia was obviously part of thetter group.


    The security guards politely escorted her out. Olivia who had been so arrogant just moments ago now wished she could bury her head in the ground. Marilyn finally felt the satisfaction of a long-awaited release of pent-up frustration. Her dimples reappeared as her lips curled into a carefree smile. She was always carefree.


    Phoebe approached cautiously. "Elia, you''re not mad at me for not speaking up on your behalf earlier, are you?" she asked, treading lightly.


    Ophelia smiled faintly, her tone casual. "Why would I be?"


    ''Get mad at her? What for?'' Ophelia wondered.


    Ophelia felt difort by Phoebe''s earlier gaze and it was a convenient excuse to remind her.


    "Actually, I''ve been meaning to ask you something. Do you have a moment?" Phoebe asked, deliberately choosing a spot with plenty of people around. Her tone was as humble as could be.


    If Ophelia refused, it would only make her seem unreasonable.


    "No," Ophelia answered decisively.


    Phoebe was caught off guard. Just a second ago, she''d been convinced Ophelia would agree. She hadn''t expected to be turned down so tly.


    "Elia, I genuinely want to be friends with you. I wish you and Keh the best and would never dream of ruining your rtionship. Why can''t you just trust me?" Phoebe''s tone softened, her voice low enough that only the two of them could hear.


    Ophelia''s longshes lowered slightly, and a faint smile tugged at the corner of her lips. "Would you trust a starving wolf if it 1 told a rabbit, ''I''m not going to eat you"?"


    It was the same principle.


    "Elia, you''ve really misunderstood me. I just wanted to warn you about something," Phoebe said, leaning in slightly.


    Ophelia''s gaze flicked toward her, and Phoebe lowered her voice further. "Ivy hase to Denex. You should be careful. I don''t want you to get hurt. Keh would be heartbroken if you did."


    ''What a ssic case of loving me, loving my dog,'' she wondered.


    "I truly mean no harm," Phoebe added earnestly.


    ''Sharing a secret I might not know in exchange for my trust? Ophelia thought. Unfortunately, she already knew.


    "Ivy? You mean Keh''s aunt? What''s she doing in Denex?" Ophelia feigned curiosity.


    "I don''t know," Phoebe replied.


    12.25 SUIT, NOV 24


    Chapter 233-


    "Oh." Ophelia nodded. "So, what was it you wanted to ask me?"


    Seeing Ophelia''s apparent change of heart, Phoebe''s face lit up with delight as she eagerly linked arms with her. "Let''s talk in


    the lounge. Mr. Kyte and two renowned designers are there too,


    }

 Jilted Bride 234

    The lounge wasn''t just upied by Matthew and two designers The spacious, cream-colored armchairs were arranged in a roundtable style, and no fewer than ten people were seated arouid them. Among them was Matthew, the president of the association, Ophelia had met him more than six months ago when he served as a judge at a designerpetition she participated in.


    The rest of the designers were also familiar to Ophelia.


    Two of them, in particr, stood out, were Madeline Ximena, aenowned domestic designer, and Summer, an internationally acimed name.


    Phoebe nced sideways at Ophelia with a look that seemed to say, "See? I wasn''t lying, was I?"


    "Phoebe, who is this you''ve brought with you? Her outfit is just too casual," a female designer said, her gaze sweeping over Ophelia from head to toe. She snorted lightly and let out a disdainful chuckle.


    The design world valued fashion above all else. Everyone here was dressed in luxury brand outfits, each costing at least hundreds of thousands of dors.


    And then there was Ophelia. She wore an ordinary blue id wornen''s suit, with a white cor showing underneath and a small ck tie around her neck.


    Her crisp and professional look shedpletely with the ostentatious styles of everyone else present.


    Ophelia quickly scanned the room. There was only one seat left. It was obvious Phoebe had known this beforehand.


    Her intentions were clear to Ophelia.


    Phoebe maintained a gracious smile and walked a few steps forward with Ophelia.


    "Let me introduce..." she began, but before she could finish, Summer stood up from his seat and walked over to Ophelia with a delighted expression, grabbing both of her arms.


    "Darling, it is you! I thought I was seeing things. You haven''t forgotten me, have you?" Summer''s voice was delicate, and he was dressed in a medieval aristocratic gown, his hair dyed silver gray, with expertly applied makeup. "Of course not." Ophelia''s smile held a trace of awkwardness. After all, years ago, when Ophelia first met Summer, he had


    been a man.


    And Summer still was a man, though his style had always leaned toward the androgynous and unapologetically self-expressive.


    The others knew very few people could get Summer to stand and greet them.


    Their initial contemptuous and mocking looks toward Ophelia shifted to ones of curiosity and assessment.


    Summer waved Madeline over. "Madeline, this is the one I told you about the incredibly talented youngdy I adore. I absolutely love her designs!"


    "Darling, when are you going to design an evening gown tailored to my body? I''d love you forever if you did." Summer looked at Ophelia.


    Ophelia wasn''t fond of designers who put on a fake mboyant act, but Summer was different. "Of course. I''ll make sure to send you one soon," she promised. "Oh, darling, you''re too kind! I adore you!" Summerughed.


    III


    Phoebe stood frozen nearby,pletely ignored.


    1877%


    The female designer who had spoken earlier was also stunned. Everyone knew Summer was famously stingy with praise and wasn''t close to anyone.


    None of them had ever seen him this openly warm before, let alone smiling so much. And all of this was directed at a youngdy.


    Clearly, she wasn''t someone to underestimate.


    Even Madeline who was usually aloof and unapproachable expressed unusual friendliness toward Ophelia. "I know her. She''s the founder of La Reverie, very well-known." It was only then that the others realized Ophelia''s true identity.


    Those who had initially hoped to watch her embarrass herself were now practically bowing down to her.


    "You... you all know each other?" Phoebe stepped forward with a gentle smile.


    Summer, however, clearly disliked the sudden interruption. "And who are you? You brought her here, so your job is done. Leave. There''s nothing else for you to do." Summer had effectively demoted Phoebe to a mere errand girl.


    Phoebe''s face turned gloomy.


    What are you standing there for? Go already!" Summer shot her an irritated look, scanning her from head to toe, then turned to Ophelia with a curious expression. "Is she a friend of yours?"


    His gaze clearly conveyed his disdain as he wondered, ''Surely, with your taste, you wouldn''t be friends with someone this tacky?''


    "Not exactly, but don''t you know her? She''s the chief designer at Mystique Moon," Ophelia exined, her expression genuinely innocent.


    The mention of Mystique Moon made Phoebe''s heart skip a beat, and she swallowed hard.


    "When did Mystique Moon get a new chief designer? Howe I didn''t know about this? Wasn''t it someone else before? Did she get stic surgery?" Summer, notorious in the industry for his sharp tongue, rarely held back when speaking. Phoebe wanted to exin but didn''t know how to start.


    After all, the title of the Mystique Moon designer was something she''d paid for herself.


    At that moment, Matthew, who had remained silent until now, spoke up. "We''re all here to exchange and learn, Summer. Don''t be too stingy."


    "I only talk to people I think are worth my time." Summer retorted, disregarding even Matthew''s authority. "The standards for designers these days are so low, anyone and everyone can slip into the design world now. Humph..." Thatment was clearly aimed at Phoebe.


    Phoebe''s cheeks flushed bright red. This was definitely not how she had imagined things would y out.


    Ophelia turned her head, her clear, bright eyes locking onto Phoebe''s with a piercing gaze.


    ''Looks like you''ve just shot yourself in the foot, Ophelia thoughtBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Alright, darling, why don''t you sit over here beside me?" Summer''s words were followed by the other designers quickly


    vacating their seats near him.


    Ophelia took a seat beside Summer, and now all the chairs were upied.


    Phoebe stood there, her face clouded with frustration.


    Ophelia could easily tell what Phoebe had been trying to do from the moment they walked in.


    She''d nned to leave Ophelia without a seat, hoping to make her ufortable.


    But, as it turned out, it was Phoebe who ended up in an awkward position.


    Matthew nced over at Phoebe, standing there awkwardly. "How about this, Phoebe? You can either have a waiter bring over a chair for you, or you can go out and mingle with the other designers. What do you think?" Phoebe, feeling utterly defeated, clutched her chest as though it were tightening. She forced a smile, trying to save her reputation.


    With a stiff expression, she signaled for a waiter to bring over an out-of-ce chair.


    Sitting down, Phoebe felt even more out of ce.


    Since the meeting was about design, Phoebe understood nothing, only watching Ophelia as she confidently discussed the topic. Ophelia shone like the moon, while Phoebe felt invisible.


    This roundtable meeting''s primary purpose was to select the vice president of the Design Association.


    The selection process was likely going toe from this group.


    During the anonymous voting, a waiter arrived with coffee and small snacks for each person.


    "Wow... the afternoon tea is really something today," Summer said, already parched. He took a sip of the coffee and delicately picked up a matcha-vored pastry with his pinky raised. "Of course, it''s all healthy snacks. Enjoy yourselves," Matthew added casually.


    A few other designers nodded in agreement.


    After casting her vote, Ophelia handed it over to the waiter.


    She picked up her own cup of coffee, its rich aroma filling the air, and took a small sip. Her delicate, slender fingers held the lid of the cup with grace.


    Noticing a lingering gaze, Ophelia turned her head. Her sharp eyes met Phoebe''s in a precise, almost cutting way.


    Phoebe, clearly caught off guard by the sudden attention, quickly averted her gaze.


    She realized that Ophelia was as sharp as a hawk.


    Ophelia lowered her eyes, briefly ncing at the coffee in her cup.


    The rich taste of the coffee slid smoothly down her throat.


    Phoebe watched her throat move as she swallowed, a sh of malice flickering in her eyes.

 Jilted Bride 235

    The vice president, elected through anonymous voting, was Madeline, well-deserved. Ophelia had voted for her too.


    But in the brief two minutes it took to count the votes, Ophelia''s cheeks turned bright red.


    "Hey, babe, what''s going on? Are you feeling unwell? Why is your face so red?" Summer was the first to notice. Madeline also noticed. "Are you running a fever or allergic to something? Should we take you to the hospital?"


    Ophelia felt like her throat was blocked, and she weakly shook her head, her bodycking energy.


    Phoebe stepped forward, her tone full of concern. "Elia, what''s wrong? How about I take you somewhere to rest for a bit?"


    "Go! I''ll call a doctor to see what''s going on," Summer said, grabbing his phone to make a call.


    Ophelia stood up, her legs feeling as though they were walking on cotton, and Phoebe helped her upstairs to the guest room.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Elia, I''ll call Keh and have hime pick you up," Phoebe said with concern. "Hey, I left my phone downstairs, I''ll go grab it. You stay here and drink some water."


    Phoebe handed Ophelia the water, and then left the room.


    As soon as the door closed, a smirk curled on Phoebe''s lips.


    ''Ophelia, enjoy this moment. Even if you believe in Keh, what does it matter? After today, once you''ve been with another man, Keh may love you, but he''ll never ept you." Phoebe wondered.


    Inside the room, Ophelia, who had been looking somewhat dazed, suddenly had clear, bright eyes the moment the door shut.


    "The same trick? Do you really think I''ll fall for it again?'' Ophelia thought.


    Ophelia stood up and walked to the restroom to ssh some water on her face. The redness on her cheeks gradually faded


    She had added Ronin on WhatsApp earlier. Ronin was very friendly and had sent her several of his specially formted remedies for situations like this, and they worked pretty well.


    Ophelia turned around and sat back down on the couch.


    Before long, the door opened, and a muscr man walked in.


    The moment he saw Ophelia on the couch, his eyes lit up.


    "Wow... what a catch... Looks like I''m hitting the jackpot today. Beautiful, do you need any help?" he said.


    Ophelia''s lips curled into a chilling smile. As the muscr man reached for her, she quickly grabbed his wrist, forced his elbow downward, and kneed him in the chest.


    The entire process happened in just two seconds.


    Before the muscr man could scream, a towel was shoved into his mouth, and she yanked it around his head, tightening it viciously.


    Ophelia''s fist pressed against his back as her voice drifted into his ear.


    "The seventh vertebra is the most vulnerable part of a person''s spine. I could end your life with just one move, so... don''t even think about moving," said Ophelia. The muscr man couldn''t speak and could only nod frantically, but he dared not move too much.


    He had known this wasn''t going to be easy.


    Ophelia kept him restrained as she picked up the phone from the table and dialed a number. "Bring him here."


    Less than a minuteter, Finn arrived, carrying the unconscious Hendrick with two of his subordinates.


    Seeing the muscr man and then the man they were carrying, Finn hesitated.


    "Miss, are you... sure you''re not nning something illegal?" Finn''s voice trembled as he looked at her.


    ''Who is this idiot who dared to mess with her?'' Finn wondered.


    "Don''t worry. I''m aw-abiding citizen." She smiled, her expression disarmingly sweet..


    The three men couldn''t help but shiver at that familiar smile.


    Ophelia watched them dump Hendrick onto the bed.


    "Get the equipment set up," she said, tossing two pinhole cameras at Finn. "And this."


    "Oh, okay..." Finn wasn''t sure what Ophelia was nning, but he couldn''t disobey her orders.


    He feared another round of punishment if he did.


    After the cameras were installed, Ophelia snapped her fingers. "You''re done here. You can go now."


    The three men didn''t move. They stood frozen in ce.


    "What? Do you want me to ask you to leave?" Ophelia said.


    "No, no, Miss, we''ll go, we''ll go right now..." Finn said.


    They silently vowed to never cross paths with Ophelia again in their lifetime.


    The three men immediately left the room in a rush, faster than a blink.


    Ophelia dialed Lesly''s number again. "Get him to room 8015, and the rest is up to me."


    "Got it." Lesly agreed on the other end, quickly sending the room number to Zackary. Before long, Zackary arrived.


    Zackary hadn''t expected Lesly to be so obedient.


    His pudgy fingers hadn''t even knocked on the door when it was pulled open from the inside.


    When he saw Ophelia standing there, Zackary''s smile froze, his brows furrowing tightly. "Professor Spencer, why are you here?"


    "Mr. Gross, are you surprised to see me? Don''t tell me you don''t have any other thoughts about me?"


    Ophelia''s voice was teasing, deliberately lowered, and seductive.


    Zackary swallowed and wondered, ''How could I not have other thoughts?''


    III


    <


    11:07 Mon, Nov 25 BG.


    "You want to stand here and talk to me?" Ophelia opened the door wider, inviting him in.


    As soon as Zackary entered, a muscr man pressed him against the wall.


    "Professor Spencer, what... what is this?" Zackary stuttered, his legs going weak as his ck-framed sses slipped askew on


    his nose.


    "A little gift for you," Ophelia said, holding a remote control and ncing at the muscr man. "Stay or leave, it''s up to you."


    The muscr man pursed his lips, clearly not intending to leave


    Ophelia didn''t bother with him further. She pressed the button on the remote.


    Before Zackary could react, pink smoke began rising from the floor.


    The gas quickly spread throughout the room.


    Ophelia smoothly slipped out the door, locking the three men inside using the key she had taken from the muscr man.


    Around four or five minutester, the sounds of banging and crashing echoed from the room.


    The noise grew louder by the second.


    Half an hour ago, Keh had just gotten off the ne when he received a call from an unknown number.


    "Keh, it''s me. Don''t hang up. I need to tell you something about Elia..." Phoebe began.


    Seeing that Keh didn''t hang up right away, Phoebe continued, her voice trembling, "I saw Elia go up to a room with a man at the Cloudin Hotel, but I don''t know which room it is." "Keh, I''m really not lying. Elia seems... off." Her voice was frantic, as though she might burst into tears.


    Keh''s brow furrowed deeply, and he immediately called Mark to investigate.


    ***


    Forty minutester, a swarm of bodyguards in ck suits flooded the entrance of the Cloudin Hotel.


    Keh mmed the car door behind him, his ck leather shoes clicking against the smooth marble floor.


    Phoebe hurried over, her eyes red and puffy, tears streaming down her face.


    "Keh, I''m sorry, I couldn''t find Elia. What do we do now?" she cried out.


    0

 Jilted Bride 236

    The entire Cloudin Hotel was as silent as a tomb because of Keh''s arrival.


    It was the first time the hotel staff had witnessed such a scene.


    Keh frequently appeared on television news.


    He was the one who controlled everything in Heloria with a single hand. They wondered why he could possibly show up in such a small hotel. What on earth has happened?'' they thought.


    Keh''s presence carried a tremendous sense of pressure.


    He lifted his eyelids, his cold eyes narrowing as he stared at the woman in front of him. "It seems Ivy didn''t take my warning to heart."


    "Keh, what do you mean by that?" Phoebe hesitated.


    "Have I been too merciful to you?" Keh''s tone was indifferent.


    When Phoebe met his gaze, her pupils trembled.


    Thest time Keh almost strangled her, his eyes were filled with anger. But now, his gaze waspletely indifferent, like he was looking at a corpse. Phoebe panicked, and the tears on her face froze instantly.


    "Mr. Sinir, the hotel has beenpletely sealed off, but the elevator and the surveince cameras on the eighth floor are down," Mark reported. That was already very clear.


    As Mark finished speaking, Keh took long strides toward the elevator.


    Phoebe hurried to follow, taking a different elevator up to the eighth floor.


    "Search room by room," Keh ordered.


    "Yes, sir."


    A group of bodyguards in ck suits kicked open every door on the eighth floor, making a loud noise.


    Ophelia, sitting in room 8016 drinking coffee and eating dessert, was startled by themotion.


    ''What is going on?'' she wondered.


    The closer Phoebe got to room 8015, the faster her heart raced, and she even felt a rush of excitement. She hadpletely forgotten about the cold look Keh had given her earlier. It had been so long by now. Ophelia should have already be the muscle guy''s prey.


    Ophelia probably wouldn''t even be able to move now.


    ''How would Keh react when he saw that?'' Phoebe thought.


    As Phoebe thought this, more tears welled up on her face, and she rushed forward.


    III


    0477%


    But something was wrong with the noiseing from the room


    Phoebe stopped in her tracks as she wondered, ''How could it be men''s voices? And there are more than one? What''s going on here?''


    The group froze in front of room 8015, their eyes seeking Keh''s approval.


    Mark dared not look into Keh''s eyes. If Ophelia was really inside...


    "What are you all waiting for?" Keh''s tone was cold.


    At that moment, the door behind them opened.


    "Wait. Don''t ruin their fun," said Ophelia.


    Hearing Ophelia''s voice, everyone turned to look. Ophelia was leaningzily against the door frame with her arms crossed.


    Mark''s heart immediately returned to his chest.


    Only then did Mark dare to look at Keh.


    He knew that Ronin''s medicine would help.


    Keh was certain that Ophelia wouldn''t be so easily fooled.


    When their gazes met, Ophelia shed a sly smile.


    She then looked at Phoebe, whose expression was far more dramatic.


    "Sorry, Phoebe. Looks like I''ve disappointed you again," said Ophelia.


    Ophelia had known all along that Phoebe couldn''t possibly leave Keh out of this good show.


    It was just too bad. Phoebe didn''t get to see what she''d hoped for


    The more affectionately Ophelia called her name, the heavier Phoebe''s heart sank.


    ''How could this happen?'' Phoebe wondered.


    Phoebe had clearly seen Ophelia drinking the coffee, with a ring of some kind of drug on the edge of her cup. A tiny trace of the drug, even from her saliva, would make her excited for the whole night, and she couldn''t escape it... Phoebe had watched her fall into the trap, so why was it like this


    She wondered who the people in this room were.


    "Phoebe, I''ve already been tricked by you once. You really thought I wouldn''t guard against you? Did you think your acting was too good? Or did you just think I was too stupid?" Ophelia asked.


    The first time was on the ship, where Ophelia had indeed been caught off guard.


    The second time was at Waston. Even though Phoebe wasn''t directly involved, it was tied to the Davidson family, and Ophelia couldn''t possibly be unaware of it.


    Now, this was the third time. If Ophelia fell for it again, it would be rather embarrassing.


    The indecent sounds from inside the room grew louder, and Keh stepped forward, pulling Ophelia into his arms and covering one of her ears. "Let''s go home."


    §à


    C


    Mon,


    "Yes?" Ophelia looked up, not hearing clearly what he said.


    Keh lowered his gaze, leaned slightly forward, and whispered near her lips. "Home."


    Ophelia pulled his hand away from her car. "But I still have something to grab."


    She had to make the valuable video footage public.


    With Zackary''s reputation ruined, that would be enough to get him expelled from school. With this scandalous video and the evidence Lesly had kept, he wouldn''t be able to escape. As for Hendrick, this would be a lesson for him.


    "What''s that? I''ll send someone to get it." Keh furrowed his brow as the noises from the room intensified.


    "The precious footage I kept for them," Ophelia said it seriously, blinking her eyes.


    Keh nced at the bodyguards beside him. "Go get it, and while you''re at it... add a leadingdy for them."


    Upon hearing this, all eyes turned to Phoebe.


    The color drained from Phoebe''s face in an instant.


    "Keh... you can''t do this to me." She took several steps back, but her heel twisted, and she suddenly copsed to the floor.


    She could never go in. Just from the sounds, she could guess what was going on.


    She absolutely couldn''t go in. It would be deadly for her.


    "What are you standing there for?" Keh''s cold tone made Phoebe''s heart drop to the pit of her stomach, her whole body feeling colder than if she were soaking in freezing water.


    "No, don''t touch me. Don''t touch me... Keh, this has nothing to do with me..." Phoebe cried out.


    Phoebe''s arms were grabbed by the bodyguards, and she struggled desperately to break free, but it was futile.


    "Keh, why are you doing this to me? I love you. I love you... what''s wrong with that? This whole thing was Ivy''s idea. You wouldn''t dare hold Ivy ountable, so you take it out on me... Why?" she roared. "I''ve never done anything to harm you, but you''re treating me like this? You''ve known Ophelia for such a short time, and we grew up together. Keh..." she added.


    Phoebe begged bitterly, but Keh remained unmoved.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Phoebe said, "Keh, please, I promise I won''t do it again. Can''t you think about all the good I''ve done for you? I even took


    a bullet for her. Don''t you remember? If it weren''t for me, that bullet would''ve hit her instead..."


    Ophelia felt Keh''s hand on hers, and she could clearly sense that the people around them were moved by Phoebe''s words. Ophelia knew Keh.


    He wasn''t as cold and heartless as he appeared.


    That bullet had indeed been blocked by Phoebe for Ophelia, even though her intentions hadn''t been pure.


    At that moment, as the door opened, Ophelia spoke. "Enough."


    Ophelia turned and walked slowly toward Phoebe.


    1


    "Your chance is over, there won''t be a next time," her tone was cold.


    She should understand what it meant.


    Phoebe nodded desperately, her hatred carefully concealed.


    3


    After retrieving the hidden camera footage, Ophelia got into the car with Keh and returned to Rosewood Manor.


    Ray and Eric were also blending into the gro

 Jilted Bride 237

    In the hotel corridor, Phoebe sat shumped on the floor, her phone ringing a few times.


    Weary, she answered the call, and Jonathan''s voice came through the receiver. "You have less than a month left."


    She leaned against the wall and stood up. "I know, Jonathan. Is there any way we can..."


    The line went dead with a harsh beep.


    Phoebe gripped the phone tightly, her knuckles turning white.


    Her heart was full of unwillingness and restraint. Why?


    Even if she was a dog for the Davidson family, she would be the one that bites.


    Just as the call ended, Fiona''s call came in. "Ms. Davidson, there''s news about Ms. Chloe Davidson."


    "What? Where is she?" Phoebe''s voice softened, her tone tinged with urgency.


    So fast... did they already find Emma?'' she wondered. ''No, this matter mustn''t get back to the Davidson family! Someone who has been gone for five years should stay gone forever. Why was she showing up now?


    Just then, the hotel room door opened, and Hendrick limped out.


    His hair was a mess, like a haystack, and a few buttons on his shirt were missing, his cor still standing up.


    His face was pale, and when he saw Phoebe, his face paled even more.


    "Phoebe... Phoebe, what are you doing here?" His cheeks were flushed.


    He gripped the door handle tightly, clearly trying to keep anyone froming out of the room.


    He didn''t want Phoebe to see.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Phoebe, looking at him, knew exactly what had happened the night before. Though it disgusted her, she still asked with some concern, "Are you okay? Are you alright?" Hendrick was stunned for a moment.


    She already knew.


    Hendrick''s face seemed like it could drip with blood, his head lowered, unable to look at Phoebe.


    ''Don''t let me know who did it! I won''t let it go!'' he wondered.


    At that moment, the muscr man forcefully pulled open the door and walked out, looking refreshed. Upon seeing Hendrick, there was a look of satisfaction in his eyes. "Next time, you can contact me again," he said.


    "Get lost. Get out..." Hendrick swatted away the man''s hand, but in the process, his backside throbbed painfully.


    *****


    When they returned to Rosewood Manor, the afternoon sunlight was just right.


    III


    .


    Chapter 237-


    The warm light cast on the blooming pink petals, as if they were coated in gold.


    Actually, Ophelia''s head was still a bit heavy, but she didn''t want Keh to worry, so she kept it to herself.


    "I thought you''d be back in the evening." They both went upstairs and into the room.


    77%


    Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting warm golden hues all over the bed, the carpet, and the


    room.


    "Take a rest. I''ll go run your bath," she said.


    She had already asked Lisa to prepare dinner earlier, so after a quick bath, they would be ready to eat downstairs. Keh didn''t say anything. His narrow, deep-set eyes seemed to be fixed on her.


    "What''s wrong? Why are you staring at me like that?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh''s palm was facing up as if asking her for something.


    Seeing the confusion in her eyes, Keh gently took her hand, pulling her fingers one by one from his palm.


    Ophelia''s delicate palm had a long, raised scar, red and swollen. It was clearly still bruised.


    Ophelia felt guilty and tried to pull her hand back, but at this point, she had no choice.


    This injury hade from when she had wrapped a towel around the muscr man, pulling it too tightly. The towel had cut into her hand.


    She hadn''t thought much of it at the time, and there hadn''t been any bleeding. She wondered how Keh had noticed.


    Keh was so observant.


    Keh led her to the sofa and fetched the first aid kit.


    There were still some medicines for bruises and swelling from past injuries.


    "It''s nothing. It won''t take long," she said. The wound was minor, but she was more concerned about Keh''s reaction when he found out. Still, he had seen it.


    Keh sighed, not speaking since he entered the room.


    While applying the medicine to her wound, Keh furrowed his brows, his focus intense.


    "Darling..." she called softly, her voice a little sweet and pleading, trying to be extra obedient.


    ''Does calling him Darling no longer matter?'' she wondered.


    Keh didn''t respond, continuing to carefully apply the medicine as though punishing her and deliberately using a bit more pressure. "Hiss..." said Ophelia.


    "Does it hurt?" Keh asked.


    He finally spoke.


    Ophelia smiled with her lips pressed together. "No, it doesn''t hurt."


    <


    She was pretending, of course. He didn''t speak, so she decided to take a little trick.


    Ophelia pulled her hand back and wrapped both arms around his neck.


    "Don''t move," Keh warned, his tone firm.


    "No way..." She grinned like a little fox, her words dripping with meaning.


    She pressed her lips to his thin ones. After all, she had made the first move before.


    Keh leaned back on the sofa, exuding a quiet, immovable presence.


    The soft, warm golden light bathed the two of them.


    Their suits were scattered across the plush carpet.


    They stayed like that until the sun set, and the sky outside had turnedpletely dark.


    The dinner had been reheated twice before they finally went downstairs to eat.


    After dinner, Ophelia''s phone rang, and Lisa handed it to her.


    It was Theo calling.


    Ophelia had been so busytely that she hadn''t visited the Carnegie family in a long time. ra and her mother had called Ophelia several times to invite her, and now it was Theo. "Ophelia, it''s me, your grandfather. Have you forgotten you still have a grandfather?" Theo said. Hearing that, Ophelia raised an eyebrow slightly.


    Theo was so cute,


    3


    "When will you be free toe to y chess with me? I received the chess game you sent me, but I have no one to spar with, so I don''t even know how good I am," he added. "Yes, let me check my schedule." Tomorrow was Sunday, and Ophelia didn''t seem to have any ns. "How about tomorrow?


    "Tomorrow?" Theo''s voice immediately lit up at the suggestion. "Great, great, then I''ll be waiting at home for you tomorrow. Don''t forget!"


    "I won''t. You should get some rest," Ophelia said.


    Ophelia hung up the phone and looked at Keh. "Do you want toe with me tomorrow?"


    "No. You can go early ande back early." Keh shook his head.


    "Okay." Ophelia nodded.


    The next day, Ophelia went out in the morning.


    As she left the house, she saw Ray and Eric sitting in the backseat of a ck SUV, waiting for her.


    She got in the car, and after they had been driving for a few minutes, she nced at them through the rearview mirror. "So, where has Keh been these past few days?" she asked.

 Jilted Bride 238

    Chapter 238 77%


    "Mr. Sinir has indeed been handling matters at Death Guild these past few days and hasn''t left Death Guild, Mrs. Sinir. Perhaps you''re just overthinking?" Ray reported truthfully. Ophelia nodded, her gaze falling on Eric. Their eyes met, and Eric slightly lowered his eyelids.


    Ray was telling the truth.


    "Maybe," Ophelia replied softly.


    She truly hoped that she was simply overreacting.


    The car pulled up to the gates of Carnegie Vi.


    After Ophelia had identally damaged the ornate gates of Carnegie Vi, Theo had indeed wasted no time in having them torn down.


    The car entered the estate, and Gerald was already waiting at the gate, ready to open the door for Ophelia.


    "Ms. Spencer, Mr. Carnegie has set up the chessboard in the backyard and is waiting for you," said Gerald.


    "Alright," Ophelia said, following Gerald as he led her to the backyard.


    The backyard of Carnegie Vi wasrge and meticulously maintained, with every tree and nt carefully tended to.


    It was spring, and the surrounding area was filled with vibrant life.


    Theo, wearing afortable, lightweight brown outfit with a id vest over it, his graying hair neatly styled, sat confidently in the pavilion waiting for her.


    "Ophelia, you''ve finally arrived! Come and take a seat. Let''s see how I win today." Theo''spetitive spirit was evident.


    "Alright, but no take-backs," Ophelia said, sitting down opposite him, holding the white pieces.


    Gerald wheeled over a cart with snacks, desserts, coffee, and water, all ced beside Ophelia


    "I noticed you liked thesest time during Christmas, so I had them prepared for you. Go ahead, and try them," Theo said.


    "Thank you," Ophelia replied, picking up a piece of matcha cake. As she waited for Theo to make his move, she took a couple of bites.


    The two chatted for a while about work. Ophelia didn''t bring up any topics on her own. She simply answered whatever Theo asked.


    It was clear to her that Theo was bored.


    During the drive over, the vast estate had seemed empty,cking the usual warmth of life.


    ra and Shen Fiy couldn''t always be by Theo''s side.


    The young people had their own lives to live and little time to spend with Theo.


    Since she had recognized him as a grandfather, regardless of her motives, Ophelia still felt she should show some filial piety.


    "I heard you''ve recently taken an interest in the Westiend Railway Station project? Is that true?" Theo asked.


    "Yes, how do you know about such a small matter?" Ophelia asked, a bit impressed by Theo. Even while at home, he seemed


    to know everything happening outside,


    "I happened to hear it from Bethany, Theo said.


    Bethany, the madam of the Carnegie family, was also the eldest daughter of the Huxley family.


    Theo picked up his cup and took a sip. "Next week is the final review. Do you want me to put in a good word with the Huxley family for you?"


    Ophelia focused on the chessboard, knowing that she and the Huxley family would be involved in the final review, just as expected.


    "If you put in a word, will the Huxley family just hand over the project to me? I''m not so sure," she said, moving one of her pieces.


    Theo furrowed his brow, sensing the doubt in her words.


    "Why? Don''t trust me?" he asked.


    "It''s not that I don''t trust you, but the Huxley family isn''t being run by Mr. Huxley anymore. Even if you put in a good word, it might not be effective. Why bother?" Ophelia exined. Besides, from what she could tell, the Huxley family was determined to secure the project.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Still, she couldn''t understand why they were so eager for the Westiend Railway Station project. The project wasn''t particrly lucrative, so why was the Huxley family so intent on it? Before she could think too much about it, Theo captured one of her pieces.


    Theoughed twice after taking her piece, noticing the doubt in her eyes. He exined, "The Huxley family isn''t what it used to be.


    "After Zayn took over Huxley Group''s pharmaceutical division two years ago, they''ve been expanding internationally. "Zayn''s never been content with just that. He''s been eyeing the real estate sector for a while. Even if the profits aren''t much, he wants to grab a political project. With the support of the political circles, his future will be much smoother."


    Ophelia nodded and took a sip of her coffee.


    Back in the day, the four great families of Denex had fought fiercely for dominance. The fact that the Huxley family had emerged victorious in that struggle and had been able to coexist alongside the Sinir family spoke volumes about their capabilities. Zayn''s ambition far exceeded that of his father.


    Lost in thought, Ophelia''s piece was once again captured by Theo. "Ophelia, it looks like you''re going to lose this game..."


    Ophelia pursed her lips, remaining silent. Even though Theo had captured a key piece, she stayed calm andposed, moving her pawns forward step by step. This quiet resolve was something few others had.


    Heloria chess required careful deployment of pieces, demanding a strong sense of the bigger picture. Sometimes, to win the entire game, it was necessary to sacrifice smaller benefits. Winning wasn''t about capturing the most pieces. It was about the overall victory. The chessboard, much like the business world, was ever-changing. One wrong move, and it was game over.


    It seemed the Westiend Railway Station project was no longer in her hands.


    She had chosen to sacrifice this small victory in exchange for a longer-term gain.


    <


    Chapter 238-


    Though reluctant, there was no other choice.


    3


    After leaving Carnegie Vi, Ophelia drove to the real estatepany. Despite it being the weekend, Cody and the team were still working hard. Ophelia brought them lunch.


    "Everyone, take a break. Don''t waste too much time on the railway station project. Ourpetitor is the Huxley family, so it won''t be easy to secure," Ophelia said.


    In truth, if she were determined to win this project, she knew her team would handle it well.


    But if the first project led to direct conflict with the Huxley family, there was a high chance that they would block her in future projects. It would make things much harder.


    It would be better to let the Huxley family have this one, allowing them to let their guard down. While they focused on the railway station project, she could secure the next two projects.


    Right now, it was better to avoid making a move that might cost her more in the long run.


    "Bonuses will still be paid. You''ve worked hard. Take a couple of days off," said Ophelia.


    Money was a powerful motivator, and Ophelia was never stingy in this regard.


    "Ophelia, we''re not tired. This is our first time handling such arge project, and we want to learn as much as we can. Even if we don''t secure this project, we''ve still learned a lot," Cody said sincerely, without ttery.


    "Yeah, we''ve already made it to the final round of review, even against the Huxley family. We want to give it our best shot," Nate added, supporting Cody''s point.


    Just getting to the final round alongside the Huxley family was something they could brag about for half a year.


    What if they actually won it?


    Ophelia smiled lightly, a rare sight of her being so rxed in front of them.


    "Alright, you can pretend I didn''t say anything. But there are bigger projectsing your way. Let me make one thing clear though. If you drop the ball at a crucial moment, I''m very strict about rewards and punishments." Opheliaughed. "We understand," they all replied in unison.


    She added, "I can see your efforts, but I''m the boss, and I care more about results. If any of you ever feel frustrated with me, don''t hold it in. Just let me know. We''re all here to make money, so it''s important that we enjoy it." They all nodded vigorously.


    Ophelia''s phone vibrated in her pocket, and she answered it.


    "Ms. Spencer, it''s me. Let''s find a ce to talk," someone said.


    or


    upset

 Jilted Bride 239

    The voice on the other end of the line was unmistakable. It was Ivy.


    Her tone was steady, with a faint huskiness that made it unforgettable after just one listen.


    Ophelia wasn''t the least bit surprised by the call.


    Considering how her and Phoebe''s ns had failed, it was only a matter of time before Ivy reached out.


    "Alright, name the ce." Ophelia agreed without hesitation, ncing at the time on her wristwatch.


    11


    "You should already know where I''m staying. I''ll be waiting for you at the rooftop restaurant. I don''t want Keh to know about this meeting. You know what to do," she added. "Understood." Ophelia nodded.


    Ophelia had wanted to talk to Ivy alone anyway.


    As soon as the call ended, Keh''s name shed on her screen


    His deep, pleasant voice carried through the phone. "Still at Carnegie Vi?"


    "Yes... Yes, you go ahead and eat lunch without me. I''ll be back a littleter," said Ophelia.


    "Don''t humor him too much. He''ll start pushing his luck." Keh''s displeasure was evident. Chess games weren''t enough


    and now Theo wanted Ophelia to stay for lunch too.


    Ophelia chuckled lightly. "Alright... next time,e with me. He wouldn''t dare overstep then."


    ''Sorry about that, Grandpa. I''m throwing you under the bus here, Ophelia wondered.


    Half an hourter, Ophelia arrived at the rooftop restaurant of Evend Hotel.


    From a distance, she spotted a woman in an elegant dark red dress sitting by the window.


    Her poise was impable, making it nearly impossible to guess her age from this angle.


    The rooftop restaurant was exclusive to guests staying in the hotel suites, so it was practically empty.


    Ophelia approached and took the seat across from Ivy.


    Today, she had opted for a more casual look since she had been meeting Theo earlier, steering away from her usual sharp, professional style.


    "What can I do for you, Ms. Lawrence?" Ophelia got straight to the point, wasting no time on pleasantries.


    Ophelia had no desire to linger in Ivy''spany, especially now that Ophelia fully understood Ivy''s identity as Pharmacology Queen.


    Having mastered poisons and concoctions, Ivy was formidable. If not for the antidote Ronin had prepared, Ophelia might not have dared to meet her at all.


    "Well done. At least you didn''t call me Ivy right away. You know your ce," she mocked.


    A smirk yed on Ivy''s crimson lips as her gaze swept over Ophelia with an air of superiority. She made it clear she didn''t see Ophelia as a threat.


    Mon, Nov


    Ophelia chuckled faintly, though the smile didn''t reach her eyes


    "The food here is decent. Care to try some? I didn''t poison it, and I don''t n to gift you poison in a ce like this." Ivy emphasized thest few words as if to say, "You''re not even worth the effort Ophelia nced at her wristwatch, signaling her impatience.


    "I just ate. There''s no need for this conversational forey. Let''s get to the point. Are you offering me 1.5 million dors to leave Keh?" she began.


    After all, that was how these things always went in dramas.


    "Well, aren''t you quite theedian," Ivy said, setting her fork down and dabbing her lips with a napkin, her movements graceful.


    "Even if it''s not, the goal is the same, isn''t it?" she added. "Such a smart girl."


    Ivy''s smile bore an uncanny resemnce to Keh''s mother''s, but her eyes held something entirely different.


    She enjoyed dealing with clever people. "Would you like to hear Keh''s story?"


    "What if I said no?" Ophelia smiled.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Her response broke from expectations, causing Ivy''s brow to furrow. "You''re not interested in learning about Keh?"


    "I just don''t want to hear it from you." Ophelia shrugged.


    Ophelia already knew what she needed to know.


    Whatever came from Ivy''s lips would hardly be unbiased.


    "Humph..." Ivy''s gaze lifted slightly as she began to scrutinize Ophelia properly for the first time.


    Her features were bold yet delicate, her appearance strikingly innocent yet undeniably captivating. Keh''s taste in women was impable.


    ''It seems I have underestimated her,'' Ivy wondered.


    Ophelia was far more difficult to deal with than Ivy had anticipated.


    A tense atmosphere filled the space between them, invisible sparks flying across the table. The mood was anything but pleasant.


    After a brief silence, Ophelia broke the stillness. "What you''re nning to tell me is nothing more than how Keh worked his way to where he is today, doing everything for revenge against those who wronged his mother. "My presence has disrupted his ns for revenge and indirectly interfered with yours, hasn''t it?"


    She leaned forward slightly, her eyes sharp. "But what intrigues me more is... what exactly did Victor do back then? Or perhaps... the story between him and you two."


    Ivy''s expression darkened instantly. Ophelia hadpletely exceeded her expectations.


    "What do you mean?" she asked.


    "Exactly what it sounds like." Ophelia smiled.


    Call it a woman''s intuition, but Ophelia felt there was something peculiar about Ivy''s hatred for Victor.


    11:07 Mon, Nov 25 44 B


    Even her maniption of Keh seemed unlike what a blood rted aunt would do.


    That obsessive hatred likely stemmed from something deeper, something personal. Perhaps... love turned into hate.


    Ivy leaned back in her chair, her gaze now firmly locked on Ophelia. "You''re clever but overly clever women don''t tend to meet good ends. I''ll give you a choice, your life or Keh''s?" "Both." Ophelia''s reply was swift and resolute.


    "Are you sure? Unfortunately for you, Keh..." Ivy began.


    "Ophelia!" A low, icy voice cut through Ivy''s words.


    Ophelia''s spine stiffened. ''Keh?'' she wondered.


    She turned her head and saw a tall,manding figure entering the restaurant.


    The man''s face, as striking as ever, carried an ominous darkness, his sharp eyes narrowed.


    His entire demeanor radiated a chilling intensity as he strode toward her in long, deliberate steps.


    He looked at her as if he wanted to consume her.


    Without saying a word, Keh grabbed Ophelia''s wrist and yanked her to her feet. The pressure of his grip sent a sharp jolt of pain through her, and she frowned deeply.


    His gaze was icy and murderous as it fixed on Ivy, who remained seated across the table..


    Keh didn''t utter a single word to her. Instead, he turned and began walking out, dragging Ophelia along with him.


    "Keh!" Ivy''s voice rang out as she rose from her chair.


    Keh paused, turning his head slightly. A hint of bloodthirsty malice flickered in his cold eyes. "I warned you onest time. Don''t touch her. Or I won''t guarantee what I''ll do next."


    Without waiting for a reply, he continued out of the restaurant with Ophelia.


    Ophelia''s wrist was held tightly by him as if he wanted to crush her bones.


    In the elevator, descending to the ground floor, the air felt suffocatingly heavy.


    "Ophelia, your guts are getting bigger, aren''t they? You dared to lie to me?" his tone was cold.


    Ophelia stayed silent, knowing full well she was in the wrong.


    "Did you not understand what I said? I told you to be careful of her. And you? You ran straight to meet her! Are you just offering yourself up? Do you think you''re going to be lucky every single time? Yes?" he roared. Staring down at her shoes, Ophelia kept her head low.


    "Say something." Keh''s hand tilted her chin upward, forcing her to meet his furious, deep-set eyes.


    "Kennie, don''t be mad," she coaxed softly, attempting to cate him.


    "I''m not mad." Keh retorted, voice dripping with sarcasm. "I''m just so bored I decided to chase after you!"

 Jilted Bride 240

    "I was wrong, Kennie. It hurts..." Ophelia furrowed her brows, her watery eyes fixed pitifully on the man before her. Keh abruptly released her wrist, his eyes dropping to the red marks left on her skin. His brows furrowed deeply. Even though he hadn''t yet vented his frustration, his chest was suddenly filled with warmth as Ophelia pressed against him.


    She wrapped her arms around him, resting her cheek against his chest, separated only by the fabric of his shirt. She could feel his rapid heartbeat and the rise and fall of his chest, both driven by his anger. "I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have lied to you. I was wrong. There won''t be a next time," she admitted softly, her tone earnest.


    She truly seemed to regret her actions.


    After all, she was indeed at fault this time.


    If Keh hadn''t shown up today, Ivy likely wouldn''t have let her off so easily.


    It had been a risky move on her part.


    But Ophelia couldn''t shake the feeling that something was amiss between Keh and Victor.


    She couldn''t pinpoint exactly what, but the hunch was strong.


    What''s it?'' she wondered.


    "Humph... Do you think I''ll forgive you just because you said that?" Keh''s deep voice rumbled above her.


    He forcefully pushed her away from his embrace.


    His tone softened slightly, though his jaw remained tense.


    His expression, while still stern, was less menacing than before.


    Since he was angry, Ophelia had to coax him, of course.


    Ophelia looped her arm around his and leaned closer again. "Then what will it take for you to forgive me?"


    Even pouting didn''t work.


    Keh kept his gaze fixed straight ahead, his hands buried in the pockets of his tailored pants.


    From her angle, Ophelia could only see his sharp, chiseled side profile. She stood on tiptoe and nted a kiss on his cheek.


    Still, Keh remained unmoved.


    When the elevator doors opened, he strode forward without even ncing at her.


    He wasn''t easy to appease.


    Ophelia quickened her pace to catch up, and just as she reached him, a woman''s voice rang out near the elevator. "Well, well... isn''t this the famed Ms. Spencer? What a coincidence. Chasing after a man, are we?" Ophelia looked up, meeting the woman''s gaze, only to barely notice the foot that stretched out in front of her.


    She stumbled, nearly falling, though her agile reflexes saved her from aplete spill. She still wobbled awkwardly for a


    moment.


    §à


    Chapter 240-


    The woman covered her mouth with a fakeugh.


    77%


    Ophelia recognized her instantly. This was Tina Harrison, someone she had encountered at the recent designer conference.


    Tina had taken part in the roundtable discussions and had even tried to back Phoebe before Summer had shut her down.


    Tina was an international designer who had been banned from Heloria''spetitions for five years after incorporating elements of another country''s culture into her work. Her brand had been publicly boycotted, and she had long since changed her nationality. Frankly, Ophelia had already found her presence at yesterday''s conference rather odd.


    Tina had loose, wavy hair cascading over her shoulders, wore a figure-hugging dress, and draped a cream-colored Chanel- style jacket over her shoulders.


    "Who would''ve thought? Ms. Spencer, who''s all cold and pure on the surface, turns out to be so... open in private. Chasing a man around a hotel? How amusing," Tina said mockingly.


    "Then I guess you''ve lived a pretty sheltered life since you''re so easily amused." Ophelia shot back, her tone icy.


    Her demeanor had shifted entirely from the gentle patience shed shown Keh earlier.


    That foot earlier was definitely intentional. Tina was trying to trip her.


    "Humph... Ms. Spencer, don''t waste your time. That man clearly doesn''t fancy you. Why are you clinging to him like this? Do you even know who you''re chasing?" she added. Ophelia''s gaze stayed calm as she waited for Tina to reveal her knowledge.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    "Just the price of his custom-tailored suit could buy out one of your gship stores." Tina sneered.


    Yes, Ophelia knew.


    Because every suit Keh wore these days was made from fabrics Ophelia personally selected and designed herself.


    Ophelia remained silent, and Tina let out a derisive snort.


    ''Got scared, huh? Tina wondered.


    Just from the man''s silhouette, Tina could tell he wasn''t ordinary. Anyone who coulde and go freely from the Evend Hotel wasn''t someone to trifle with. His worth had to be in the millions.


    "Ms. Spencer, just because you''ve made a name for yourself in the design world doesn''t mean you can win over a man like that. Sure, you''re good-looking, butpared to the women in his circle, you''re way out of your league," said Tina.


    The longer Tina droned on, the clearer it became to Ophelia. Tina had no idea the man she was talking about was Keh.


    Listening to Tina, Ophelia would think she actually knew who that guy was.


    "Finished?" She asked.


    Tina gave Ophelia an once-over, her expression a mix of suspicion and disdain. "What do you mean? I''m just trying to give you some friendly advice."


    "Thanks, but it''s unnecessary. That man is my husband," Ophelia said tly.


    Tina sneered and cast a dismissive nce toward the man in question.


    He was seated on a leather couch in the hotel lobby, exuding an aura of power that was impossible to ignore.


    Wait a second... Keh? Tina wondered. She froze, her brain processing the realization in slow motion. ''I was actuallyying eyes on Keh?''


    No wonder the man''s presence was somanding. And then Ophelia''s earlier im hit Tina.


    Ophelia said that Keh was her husband. This had to be some kind of joke.


    Tina burst outughing, her voice echoing through the hallway. The sheer absurdity of the statement made her double over in amusement.


    "You must be kidding me. Keh? Your husband?" Tinaughed.


    No one in Heloria didn''t know Keh. Even though Tina had been living abroad, she knew exactly who he was, the head of the most powerful conglomerate in Heloria.


    He was a man whose decisions could send shockwaves through the nation with a single move. And Ophelia wanted her to believe that he was her husband.


    Tina couldn''t believe she hadn''t noticed sooner how delusional Ophelia was.


    ''Does she really im Keh as her husband? She''s just putting on airs, acting so self-important in front of me. Tina sneered and shook her head, thinking, ''is this my chance to humiliate her?''


    "You must''ve lost your mind, Ms. Spencer. Keh? You?" Tina''s voice dripped with scorn. "Let''s be real. You don''t even qualify to be his side chick, yet you boldly im he''s your husband? God, how shameless can you be? You''re embarrassing yourself." Just now Ophelia was chasing him, and he didn''t even give her a look, yet she dared to say such things.


    Ophelia must be lying to herself.


    "Let me give you a piece of advice! Stay away from men like him, or you might not even see iting if something happens." Tina warned.


    Tina nced at the diamond watch on her wrist. She had other things to deal with and no time to pay attention to Ophelia.


    She made a small huff from her nose and was about to step into the elevator when her foot got caught on a leg, causing her to stumble.


    Her high heels wobbled uncooperatively, making her ankle feel like it was breaking, and her body lurched toward the unopened elevator doors. "Ah!" she screamed.


    The elevator doors opened slowly, and Tina lost her bnce, falling heavily to the ground.


    Her backsidended right in the gap of the elevator, the pain turning her face pale.


    The people inside looked at Tina with curious eyes.


    For a moment, Tina''s cheeks turned bright red with embarrassment.


    The first thing she did after standing up against the wall was ring fiercely at Ophelia, ready to confront her.


    "Did you trip me on purpose?" she roared.


    "Sure did." Ophelia nodded.


    Tina''s rage red even hotter as she hobbled forward, her voice trembling with anger. "You''re just jealous you can''t get


    Keh, so you go around saying he''s your husband? Please!


    "You don''t deserve to even look at him. Pathetic and disgusting, that''s what you are. If Keh knew what you''ve been saying, you''d be dead meat!"


    Tina''s insults grew more venomous with each word.


    In Tina''s mind, she could trip her, but if Ophelia retaliated, it was suddenly unforgivable.


    77%1


    Unbothered by the tirade, Ophelia turned away, her gazending on Keh. He was still seated in the lobby, one leg casually crossed over the other, his demeanor calm andposed. It was almost as if he were waiting for her or maybe not. "Stop right there!" Tina shrieked, her voice cracking with fury.

 Jilted Bride 241

    Behind her, Tina continued to hurl insults, spouting the nastiest things she could think of.


    "Who would''ve thought people from Helorian were like this... Apologize to me!" Tina demanded.


    Ophelia found the remark deeply offensive. "Helorian? Aren''t you Helorian too? Did changing your nationality suddenly make you a foreigner?" Ophelia shot back, her tone sharp. Such behavior only fueled her disgust.


    It reminded her of those who rose from the Gloomhaven only to turn around and insult the local residents as if they were beneath them.


    It was revolting.


    45222


    "I''m a Yoskin citizen now," Tina replied proudly, her tone dripping with arrogance.


    1


    "Then, please go back there." Ophelia retorted coldly, her eyes gleaming with an icy edge.


    Tina, hobbling slightly, reached into her bag and pulled out her phone. "Who do you think you are? Just you wait. We''re not done here."


    Tina quickly dialed a number. "Hello... Darling, it''s me. Someone bullied me on the first floor... Yes, okay,e down here and stand up for me..." That sickly sweet voice made Ophelia''s skin crawl.


    Just as Ophelia was about to walk away, Tina blocked her path again.


    .


    "Don''t leave yet. What''s wrong? Are you scared? You''ve messed with the wrong person today. Do you even know who my husband is?


    "He''s a shareholder of the Evend Hotel. You made me Tina red at Ophelia.


    fall so badly. Just wait until hees and teaches you a lesson."


    Tina grabbed Ophelia''s wrist, the very spot Keh had held earlier, causing Ophelia to wince in pain.


    "Didn''t you im Keh was your husband? Then call him to help you out." Tina taunted loudly, ensuring her words were carried just far enough for Keh to hear. Keh cast a disinterested nce in their direction.


    His breathtakingly handsome face was devoid of any emotion, cold, and indifferent to an extreme degree.


    Seeing his expression, Tina grew even bolder.


    "Still pretending? Mr. Sinir doesn''t even know you. Who do you think you are? How dare you lie like that?" she mocked. Ophelia turned to look at Keh.


    Ignoring me? Fine. After all, he is still angry with me,'' she wondered.


    But for some reason, a sliver of grievance welled up in Ophelia''s chest, spreading slowly.


    Keh''s detached demeanor only made Ophelia feel worse.


    It was a rare feeling for her.


    11:04 Tue, Nov 26 GB.


    With a forceful tug, Ophelia broke free from Tina''s grasp, the movement abrupt enough to catch Tina off guard. Tina stumbled, her footing slipping, and she fell to the floor once again. "Ah!" A piercing scream echoed through the first-floor lobby.


    Hearing themotion, the lobby manager and staff rushed over, helping Tina ¨²p from the ground. "Ms. Harrison, are you alright?"


    After all, she was Keaton Yankovich''s guest.


    "What are you all standing there for? Throw her out!" Tina screamed, her eyes red with pain.


    She had never been so humiliated in her life, and it was all because of the woman in front of Ophelia.


    "Apologies, miss, but I must ask you to leave," the lobby manager said helplessly, addressing Ophelia.


    "Is that what you call throwing someone out? I want her thrown out!" Tina stomped her foot angrily, but the motion only worsened the pain in her already twisted ankle.


    Keh''s sharp, narrow eyes never left the scene.


    ''Lost for words? Can''t she call me for help?'' Keh thought.


    Keh''s sharp, cold brows knit slightly before he averted his gaze.


    Ophelia nced sideways and noticed that Keh''s eyes never oncended on her, as if he was deliberately avoiding her.


    It felt like her chest was stuffed with cotton, leaving her stifled and uneasy.


    Disheartened, Ophelia turned to leave, but Tina suddenly seemed to remember something. "Wait a minute. You''re forgetting something. Apologize to me. Get down on your knees and apologize!" Ophelia sneered. "Humph... Quite the demand."


    "Miss, you pushed her. You owe her an apology," someone nearby chimed in.


    "Yeah, how can you act like this? You pushed her without even saying sorry," another echoed.


    and


    Ophelia lifted her eyes


    her swept gaze across the onlookers. "She was the one harassing me first. If you''re so curious, check the security footage. Or feel free to call the police."


    The icy chill in her demeanor immediately silenced the crowd, who no longer dared to interfere.


    At that moment, a man wearing a bathrobe descended from upstairs.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    "What''s going on? What happened?" he asked, his voice tinged with authority.


    "Darling, you''re finally here! It''s this woman. She pushed me and even tripped me on purpose. Darling, you have to stand up for me," Tina whimpered, her voice on the verge of tears.


    "Yes, Mr. Yankovich, we all saw it," the lobby manager chimed in, further turning the tide against Ophelia.


    "It''s fine, babe." Keatonforted Tina briefly, patting her shoulder, before turning his attention to Ophelia.


    He thought she looked familiar but couldn''t quite ce where he''d seen her before.


    Tina, however, had other ns. Her eyes shifted toward the man seated on the sofa, Keh.


    ''If Keh himself could handle Ophelia, it would save me the trouble, she wondered.


    With a forceful mug, Ophelia broke free from Tina''s grasp, the movement abrupt enough to catch Tina off guard. Tina stumbled, her footing slipping, and she fell to the floor once again. "Ah!" A piercing scream echoed through the first-floor lobby.


    Hearing themotion, the lobby manager and staff rushed over, helping Tina up from the ground. "Ms. Harrison, are you alright?"


    After all, she was Keaton Yankovich''s guest.


    "What are you all standing there for? Throw her out!" Tina screamed, her eyes red with pain.


    She had never been so humiliated in her life, and it was all because of the woman in front of Ophelia.


    "Apologies, miss, but I must ask you to leave," the lobby manager said helplessly, addressing Ophelia.


    "Is that what you call throwing someone out? I want her thrown out!" Tina stomped her foot angrily, but the motion only worsened the pain in her already twisted ankle.


    anene.


    Keh''s sharp, narrow eyes never left the scene.


    ''Lost for words? Can''t she call me for help?'' Keh thought.


    Keh''s sharp, cold brows knit slightly before he averted his gaze.


    Ophelia nced sideways and noticed that Keh''s eyes never oncended on her, as if he was deliberately avoiding her.


    It felt like her chest was stuffed with cotton, leaving her stifled and uneasy.


    Disheartened, Ophelia turned to leave, but Tina suddenly seemed to remember something. "Wait a minute. You''re forgetting something. Apologize to me. Get down on your knees and apologize!" Ophelia sneered. "Humph... Quite the demand."


    "Miss, you pushed her. You owe her an apology," someone nearby chimed in.


    "Yeah, how can you act like this? You pushed her without even saying sorry," another echoed.


    Ophelia lifted her eyes and swept her gaze across the onlookers. She was the one harassing me first. If you''re so curious, check the security footage. Or feel free to call the police."


    The icy chill in her demeanor immediately silenced the crowd, who no longer dared to interfere.


    At that moment, a man wearing a bathrobe descended from upstairs.


    "What''s going on? What happened?" he asked, his voice tinged with authority.


    "Darling, you''re finally here! It''s this woman. She pushed me and even tripped me on purpose. Darling, you have to stand u for me," Tina whimpered, her voice on the verge of tears. "Yes, Mr. Yankovich, we all saw it," the lobby manager chimed in, further turning the tide against Ophelia.


    "It''s fine, babe." Keatonforted Tina briefly, patting her shoulder, before turning his attention to Ophelia.


    He thought she looked familiar but couldn''t quite ce where he''d seen her before.


    Tina, however, had other ns. Her eyes shifted toward the man seated on the sofa, Keh.


    ''If Keh himself could handle Ophelia, it would save me the trouble,'' she wondered. Chapter 241


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    Tina clung to Keaton''s arm and whispered with mock innocence "Darling, you know what''s hrious?


    "This woman actually imed that Keh is her husband. Sing you know Mr. Sinir, why don''t you ask him directly? If she really is Keh''s woman, I won''t hold a grudge."


    Keaton nced toward Keh and immediately recognized him, seated with an entourage of bodyguards behind him.


    Hurriedly, Keaton approached him, lowering his head in a ttering gesture. "Mr. Sinir, what a surprise to see you here at the Evend Hotel. Is there anything you need? Please don''t hesitate to ask." Keh ignored the man entirely, his gaze fixed firmly on Ophelia.


    He crooked a finger at her. "Come here."


    Despite her lingering difort, Ophelia found it impossible to resist. His long, slender fingers seemed to hold a maic pull, drawing her toward him against her will,


    Keaton turned to look at Ophelia, his brows furrowing in suspicion.


    Tina, however, felt a surge of vindication. Keh''s tone and demeanor suggested he nned to personally deal with Ophelia.


    ''Perfect. I wouldn''t have to lift a finger, Tina thought.


    But just as a smug smile began to spread across her face, Keh reached out, took Ophelia''s hand, and pulled her onto hisp.


    The movement was intimate and practiced, radiating a natural sense of familiarity that left no room for doubt.


    Tina froze,pletely dumbfounded. But it didn''t end there. Keh''s hand slipped around Ophelia''s waist while his fingers grazed her cheek. He gently tucked a stray lock of her hair behind her ear, his every move filled with an unspoken tenderness. He pinched her waist lightly, a subtle reprimand.


    He had stopped and waited for her right here, yet she hadn''te to him earlier which angered him.


    Ophelia pursed her lips, her expression unreadable.


    ''Upset, huh? Good. She''s angry,'' Keh wondered.


    Keh''s eyes lifted,nding on Keaton with clear displeasure.


    "My wife is upset. She''s been wronged here," Keh said, his tone cold and biting.


    Whatever fleeting hope Tina had clung to shatter instantly.


    "Mr. Sinir... W-what did you just say? She''s your wife? That''s impossible!" Tina stammered, her voice rising in disbelief.


    ''Keh is really Ophelia''s Darling? No way. That''s impossible, Tina thought to herself.


    She''d sooner believe the sky would fall than ept this as the truth.

 Jilted Bride 242

    The grating voice drew Keh''s attention away from Ophelia nestled in his arms.


    In an instant, his strikingly handsome yet unnervingly sinister eyes filled with icy coldness, ancient and unyielding, froze


    who dared to meet his gaze.


    anyone


    Tina''s throat tightened as she swallowed hard, her expression stiffening in fear.


    She must have lost her mind. Moments ago, she had actually thought the man looked gentle and even dared to speak to him in such a way.


    But now, her mind filled with stories of his rumored ruthlessness, and her heart leaped into her throat as she instinctively shrank behind Keaton for cover.


    Keaton wanted to shield her, but he didn''t dare. Suddenly, a spark of realization lit up in his mind.


    The familiar-looking woman before him was Theo''s beloved god-granddaughter.


    It meant she had to be none other than Keh''s wife.


    Ophelia lifted her gaze from her phone screen, meeting Keaton''s stunned expression. She smoothly straightened up from where she had been leaning against Keh.


    "Mr. Yankovich, it''s been a while. Thest time we met, I was helping your wife with her evening gown fitting. I hope Mrs. Yankovich was satisfied?" she began.


    Keaton swallowed again, ncing briefly at Tina before quickly pulling his gaze back and taking two tactical steps to the side, putting distance between himself and Tina. "She''s very satisfied, Mrs. Sinir... Today''s incident is all just a misunderstanding," he tried to exin.


    ''Mrs. Sinir? So, she really is Mrs. Sinir? Even Mr. Yankovich himself confirmed it, so there could be no doubt, the staff wondered.


    The hotel''s lobby managers and staff, who had been eagerly spectating, immediately shrank into themselves like ostriches. Those who had spoken up for Tina earlier lowered their heads, suddenly regretful of their actions. Hearing Keaton refer to Ophelia, Tina blinked in disbelief. "Darling, y-you must be mistaken. She can''t possibly be Mrs. Sinir," she whispered hesitantly to Keaton.


    Tina looked at him and then nced at Ophelia again. The arrogance in her eyes hadpletely disappeared.


    ''Could Mr. Sinir really be her husband?'' Tina wondered.


    Anxiety swirled in Tina''s chest as she nervously nced at Ophelia, avoiding direct eye contact. She instinctively reached out to hold onto the man beside her, but her hand grabbed nothing but air. Keaton hurriedly stepped forward, a fawning smile stered across his face.


    "Mrs. Sinir, I have no association with her. Whatever you and Mr. Sinir decide to do with her is entirely up to you." He desperately wanted to avoid being dragged into the matter.


    He still wanted to live a long life, after all.


    At his words, Tina''s eyes widened, disbelief etched across her face.


    "What did you just say? We''re not close? Keaton, say that again! We''ve been in bed together, and now you''re telling them


    we''re not close?" she roared..


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    0


    "Don''t spout nonsense! How dare you nder me!" Keaton growled, ring daggers at her.


    The crowd gathered around, murmuring as the scandal unraveled before them.


    "So, she isn''t Mr. Yankovich''s client. She''s his mistress!"


    "What a brazen homewrecker. Did you hear her calling him Darling earlier? Shameless!"


    Within moments, the very people who had sided with Tina turned against her, pointing fingers and muttering harsh criticisms.


    The hotel''s lobby manager hurried over, holding surveince footage from the first-floor cameras as though presenting a treasure. He offered it to Ophelia with a sycophantic grin.


    "I reviewed the security footage and found that this woman deliberately tripped Mrs. Sinir as she exited the elevator," he began.


    "Let me see... Oh, she really did!"


    "How despicable!"


    "A mistress like her couldn''t possibly be a decent person."


    The crowd''sments came one after another, their disdain growing with every


    word.


    Tina stood there,pletely dumbfounded, feeling utterly isted in the middle of the hotel lobby.


    Moments ago, these same people hadn''t been saying anything like this.


    Panic-stricken, Tina snuck a nce at Keh, only to feel her chest tighten as she struggled to breathe under the pressure!


    Keh sat with his legs crossed, one arm draped over the armrest, exuding the aura of a devil seated upon his throne, ready to decide her fate at any moment.


    His presence alone sent shivers down Tina''s spine, draining the color from her face until she was as pale as death. Her gaze didn''t dare linger on Keh for too long. Trembling, she stole a nce at Keaton instead.


    When a man turned heartless, there was no relying on him. The tenderness in bed vanished as if it never existed. Tina had no choice but to shift her gaze slowly toward Ophelia, forcing a smile so strained it looked more like a grimace. "Ms. Spencer, I... I didn''t mean to just now. I didn''t recognize who you were. Please, I beg you, let me off..." Her voice grew softer with each word, her head hanging low as she spoke with pitiful humility.


    The atmosphere in the first-floor lobby turned eerily silent.


    Keh''s gaze had been glued to Ophelia ever since she stood up.


    She could feel the weight of his eyes on her but paid it no mind.


    Ophelia remained silent as if waiting for something.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    When she made no response, Keh tilted his head slightly, giving a subtle signal to the bodyguards behind him.


    Just as the two bodyguards were about to step forward, Ophelia raised her hand, gesturing for them to stop.


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    A few minutester, an enraged shout echoed from the entrance of Evend Hotel. "Keaton! Have you grown a spine? You''re out here keeping a mistress now?" Keaton turned his head to see his wife charging over, her fury practically radiating off her. She pped him hard across the face without hesitation.


    "Honey, my dear, I was wrong... I won''t dare do it again..." Keaton whimpered, not daring to utter a single word of protest.


    "You just wait till we''re home!" Keaton''s wife snarled before turning her re on Tina standing to the side. "Well, well, you bitch! Daring to seduce my husband? You''ve got a death wish!" She rolled up her sleeves and grabbed a fistful of Tina''s wavy hair. Just the sight of her smooth, delicate face infuriated her, and her long nails raked two deep scratches down Tina''s cheek. "Ah!" Tina screamed as blood began to seep from the wounds, creating a shocking sight.


    Her high heels offered no stability, and after two ps from Mrs. Yankovich, she tumbled to the ground, where she was promptly pinned down and dragged.


    "Die, you wretched tramp!" Keaton''s wife roared.


    Keaton, still in his bathrobe, didn''t dare step in. When a wife beat a mistress, it was the kind of public spectacle no one felt inclined to interrupt, much less defend.


    The bystanders watched eagerly, their curiosity piqued. Evend Hotel had never been so lively.


    *****


    Amid the chaos, Ophelia had already started making her way out of the hotel. Keh rose to his feet and followed closely behind her, apanied by a group of bodyguards moving in unison. Outside the hotel, Keh shoved one hand into his pocket, letting out a low chuckle.


    Ophelia didn''t look back. She handed her car key to Ray, instructing him to fetch the car.


    He coughed again.


    "Take medicine if your throat''s bad,'' she wondered.


    Ophelia stood tall and straight, still not turning around, waiting for Ray to bring the car over. Keh nodded to himself, taking a deep breath. "Was Mrs. Yankovich''s arrival your doing?" "Yes," Ophelia replied curtly. She hadn''t expected her to arrive so quickly, though.


    Keh''s brows furrowed.


    ''Is little one upset with me?'' he wondered.


    Keh had raced over as soon as he learned she was meeting Ivy.


    Keh let out a cold snort, exhaling deeply. "Someone really loves saying one thing and doing another."


    His tone betrayed no hint of his mood.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow as she thought, ''Is he referring to me


    She turned her head slightly, giving Keh a sidelong nce. Who''s saying one thing and doing another? Mr. Sinir, if you have something to say, there''s no need to beat around the bush."

 Jilted Bride 243

    Hearing that cold address, Keh''s jaw twitched slightly, and a dark expression crossed his face.


    But there was nothing he could do about Ophelia standing before him.


    Keh''s narrow eyes fixed on Ophelia with an unusually serious expression..


    "Still not admitting it? Didn''t you say you wouldn''t give me the silent treatment? Then why are you doing it? Isn''t that saying one thing and doing another?" Keh said. Ophelia faltered, her lips parted and then closed again. She wanted to argue, but the words she was about to speak were swallowed before they coulde out.


    It seemed she really had said that before.


    Avoiding Keh''s gaze, Ophelia felt guilty and looked away.


    ''Have I really been giving him the silent treatment? I don''t think so, Ophelia thought to herself.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    After a while, Ray drove her car over.


    Seeing her car, Ophelia stepped down the stairs and, after just a couple of steps, suddenly felt light, her feet leaving the ground.


    Keh had easily lifted her up with one hand.


    Ophelia instinctively wrapped her arms around Keh''s neck,


    "What are you doing? I-I''m not giving you the silent treatment! I was just giving you time to process things." She added inwardly, ''and I was giving myself time too.'' "Giving me time to process?" Keh snorted, exhaling through his nose.


    ''Do I dare leave you alone? After just a little silence, you turn around and get mad at me. Do you think I still have time to process things?'' Keh thought. Looking at Ophelia, Keh felt a mixture of love and frustration. In the end, it all turned into helpless tenderness.


    Keh ruffled her hair, his tone softening, his voice low and coaxing.


    "Let''s call it even, alright?" Keh said.


    No matter the reason behind her anger, it was all even now.


    ''She''s truly my darling, and there''s nothing I can do about it, Keh thought.


    The heavy knot in Ophelia''s chest, the one that had been bothering her, was easily undone with just those few words from Keh.


    Her tone softened, and she tightened her arms around his neck. I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have lied to you today."


    "Let''s go home, Darling," Keh said.


    Keh carried her down the stairs and gently ced her in the front passenger seat of the car he had driven over. He walked around to the driver''s side and got in.


    11:04 Tue, Nov 26 GB.


    On the road, Ophelia watched Keh intently as he drove.


    3


    After a moment, she spoke up. "Actually... I came to see Ivy today because there''s something I wanted to ask her."


    "What is it?" Keh''s gaze lowered, his expression unreadable


    Ophelia was still trying to organize her words and didn''t notice the brief sh of emotion in his eyes.


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    In truth, Ophelia wasn''t sure how to approach this. She was an orphan, raised without parents, and after growing up, she had been used, ending up at Hastings Vi, where she never truly felt the love of real parents. Keh didn''t understand theplexities of these emotional connections.


    "There''s something I''ve never told you, about your father," Ophelia said, and she could immediately sense the change in Keh''s presence. His entire demeanor had shifted.


    She gently ced her hand on the hand he was using to hold the steering wheel.


    "The day of your mother''s memorial, I saw Victor at the cemetery. I wonder... do you think there might be some misunderstanding between you and Victor?" Ophelia said.


    A deep, seething hatred filled Keh''s eyes.


    Especially after learning how his mother had sacrificed herself for Victor''s drug trials, Keh''s hatred for Victor had only deepened.


    Keh remained silent, not uttering a word.


    Keh drove with one hand on the wheel, while the other firmly held Ophelia''s hand, which she had extended toward him, as if afraid of losing control.


    The atmosphere in the car was so suffocating it was hard to breathe.


    Ophelia regretted it.


    She hadn''t expected Keh to be so furious when she brought up Victor. When they arrived at Rosewood Manor, Keh went straight upstairs to his study. Every time Keh thought about his mother, he locked himself in the study. Lisa stepped forward and quietly said, "Ms. Spencer, Mr. Sinir hasn''t eaten lunch yet." Ophelia nced over at the dining table, where the food had remained untouched. "Okay, I got it. Please reheat it. I''ll take it upstairs to himter," Ophelia replied. A little whileter, Ophelia brought the food upstairs.


    *****


    In the study, Keh was staring at hisptop screen, seemingly deep in thought. When he heard the sound, Ophelia raised her gaze, quickly deleting the email she had just opened.


    "Eat something," Ophelia said as she ced the food down. "I haven''t eaten either. Let''s eat together." "Okay, sure." Keh stood up, his outward emotions now under control.


    Ophelia''s eyes briefly nced at theptop again before quickly turning away.


    3


    Late at night, in the Coastal Penins Vi, a group of dark-suited bodyguards stood throughout the guest room.


    Zayn, the head of the Huxley family, wore a smile like that of a tiger, sitting on the sofa with two bodyguards holding his shoulders firmly in ce.


    Though these people appeared to be bodyguards, they were actually hidden killers from the Death Guild.


    "Mr. Sinir, I''m curious why you''de to see me sote?" Zayn asked.


    A thinyer of sweat appeared on Zayn''s forehead. He never imagined that he would be brought here in such a quiet and secretive manner while he was just at home sleeping. ''Looks like I need to reassess the security at my house, Zayn thought.


    The room was dimly lit, and across from him sat Keh, dressed in a ck suit, his shirt''s tie clip reflecting a sliver of metal light, and the polished tips of his ck shoes gleaming.


    His sharp face was almost swallowed by the darkness, giving off an immense, invisible pressure.


    "The Westiend Railway Station project is off-limits. Don''t mess with Ophelia about it." Keh''s voice was cold


    Zayn froze for a moment. He had an inkling of what was happening, but he still couldn''t believe it.


    He knew that Theo''s god-granddaughter was involved in the matter, but Zayn hadn''t expected Keh to step in over something so small.


    "One project, Mr. Sinir? Why go through all this trouble? Ms. Spencer is Mrs. Carnegie''s god-granddaughter, so she is my junior. This is a small matter. If you had called, I would have had my people handle it," Zayn said. He forced a smile, though there was a hint of resentment in his tone that he dared not show openly.


    "Not only that. From now on, for every project in Gloomhaven that she wants, you are not topete with her," Keh said.


    At these words, Zayn''s expression shifted. The polite smile he had been maintaining faltered.


    Zayn thought to himself, ''What kind of nonsense is this? How is this fair? Keh is being too arrogant, too condescending! Does he think he''s above everyone?


    ''Just because he controls Heloria''s economy, does he think he can take whatever he wants? This is no different from the behavior of bandits!''


    "Mr. Sinir, this is a bit unreasonable. Don''t you think? There are so many projects in Gloomhaven this year. Are you really asking me to just stand by and do nothing?" Zayn said.


    He ground his teeth, barely able to keep the smile on his face as his anger simmered underneath.


    "Do you really think no one knows what you did in the past?" Keh leaned back in his chair, idly running his finger along his pinky, his sharp gaze never leaving Zayn.


    Zayn felt an overwhelming pressure from that hidden, gleaming light in Keh''s eyes. Sweat dripped down his forehead. He had swallowed nervously more times than he could count.

 Jilted Bride 244

    ''Keh was so young back then, how could he have known about those things? He must be trying to deceive me.'' Zayn thought to himself.


    He wiped the cold sweat that had started to bead on his forehead.


    "Mr. Sinir, the Huxley family has been long-standing allies of the Sinir family over the years. I''m not sure how much you know about what happened back then, but I can assure you that it wasn''t just my doing. "I believe you''re more aware than I am of the role Ronan yed in all of this," Zayn said, his voice steady but tinged with


    unease.


    Seeing that Keh remained silent, Zayn let out an awkwardugh and continued, "Forgive me for being blunt, but you know Ophelia came from Gloomhaven.


    "Since she''s after the Gloomhaven project, her intentions can''t be simple. Mr. Sinir, aren''t you afraid she''s using you?"


    Keh barely lifted his eyelids, tilting his head slightly. His face was unreadable, making it impossible to discern his


    emotions.


    Even Zayn, a veteran in the business world, couldn''t understand what Keh was thinking at that moment.


    "Mr. Sinir, we''re all businessmen here. Bringing up what happened back then won''t benefit anyone. Let''s make a deal. "I''m willing to let go


    of one more project, but that''s the most I can do. I won''t back down any further," Zayn said, his tone


    firm.


    Zayn believed he had made his position clear. If Keh pushed any further, the Huxley family wouldn''t be so eas intimidated.


    Zayn had a clear understanding of Ophelia''s true intentions, even if others didn''t.


    If she seeded, she could stir up a storm at Denex.


    By then, neither the Huxley family nor the Sinir family would fare any better than the Wright family.


    In Zayn''s view, Keh wasn''t a fool, and there had to be limits to how far he would indulge a woman.


    "It seems I wasn''t clear enough earlier," Keh said, standing up and adjusting the watch on his wrist. He took a step out of the shadows, his movements slow and deliberate.


    He signaled to a bodyguard, who set aptop down on the marble coffee table.


    Zayn''s pupils contracted sharply when he saw the screen, and the more he looked, the paler his face became.


    "Don''t make me repeat myself." Keh''s voice was devoid of warmth, his words like shards of ice, embedding themselves into Zayn''s bones.


    The sweat on Zayn''s body instantly broke out, and a chill ran through him.


    *****Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    The next day, the final review results for the Westiend Railway Station were about to be announced.


    Ophelia didn''t bring Mark along. Instead, she went to the Urban Development Bureau with Cody and Nate.


    Inside the grand, solemn conference room, at the long rectangr table, the director Trent sat at the head, with Ophelia and


    11:05 Tue, Nov 26 GB.


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    the others seated a few positions away on his right side. On his left were the staff responsible for reviewing political matters.


    The seats closest to Trent remained empty, and half an hour had passed without anyone from the Huxley Group showing up for the final review. Trent raised his hand and signaled for his secretary. "Call them and remind them."


    If anyone else waste, Trent would have canceled their qualification without hesitation, but he didn''t dare do that with the Huxley family.


    He sped his hands on the table, rotating his thumbs in circles. His gaze briefly shifted to the review staff before slowly drifting toward Ophelia.


    Ophelia sat upright, her back straight, her slender swan neck exuding natural elegance. With defiant, sharp eyes and a pure face, there was an air about her that made her seem unapproachable. There was a stark contrast in her demeanor, one that made Trent feel as if he had seen it somewhere before.


    Lost in his thoughts, Trent didn''t even realize he was staring until he snapped back to reality.


    Ophelia, sensing his lingering gaze, lifted her eyes to meet his. Her fearless, wise look instantly reminded Trent of something.


    She strangely reminded him of Elena.


    But as soon as that thought appeared, Trent immediately shook his head.


    Perhaps out of respect for Keh, he didn''t dare underestimate Ophelia. He instinctively thought that a woman wh by a capable man like Keh would naturally possess remarkable qualities in every way. Ophelia withdrew her gaze and nced down at her watch. It had already been forty minutes past the scheduled time.


    If a smallpany like theirs werete, even by just four minutes, they''d probably be disqualified immediately, let alone forty minutes.


    "What''s going on with Huxley Group? Did something happen on the road? We got here an hour early, and they''re over half an hourte," Nate murmured quietly, enough for only those se by to hear. "Maybe it''s better if they don''t show up today. It could mean they forfeit, and our proposal might just get approved straight away," Cody said with a teasing tone, trying to boost his own confidence. Nate''s lips curled downward. "Dream on. There''s no way. It would be nice if that happened, but even if Huxley Group doesn''t show up today, they''ll just reschedule."


    The old foxes in the political circles wouldn''t dare disrespect the Huxley Group. They''d already waited more than half an hour before calling to follow up, which showed just how tolerant they were.


    A momentter, the secretary came in holding a phone, and whispered something into Trent''s ear


    Trent furrowed his brows and, without thinking, nced at Ophelia, who was seated on his right. He pursed his lips. "Alright, I understand."


    His tone was low and gave off the impression that he was in a bad mood.


    Nate and Cody sat anxiously, quietly awaiting the result.


    Nate''s leg, which he had resting under the table, was unconsciously shaking. In contrast, Ophelia remained calm, her posture and expression betraying no emotion, as though she werepletely indifferent to the situation. 11:05 Tue, Nov 26


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    They were impressed by how unfazed Ophelia was. Herposed aura seemed to calm the nervous energy of the two men next to her.


    Both of them let out a relieved sigh and turned their eyes toward Trent, seated at the head of the table.


    The secretary stepped aside, and after a brief consultation, Trent spoke up in a neutral tone. "After review, the project will be fully managed by SN Estate."


    Nate and Cody exchanged a stunned look, almost doubting their own hearing. The expression on their faces was a mixture of disbelief and confusion.


    Even Nate''s small eyes, usually hidden behind his chubby cheeks, widened so much that his whites were visible. It was the most shocked expression he''d ever made in his life.


    "Yay!" the two silently fist-bumped under the table, too excited to even remember all the overtime they''d been putting in for the past few days.


    However, Ophelia, who was standing beside them, frowned slightly.


    She studied Trent, who had just delivered the news.


    It wasn''t until Trent stood up and extended his hand to shake hers that Ophelia snapped out of her thoughts. She smiled and shook his hand. "Ophelia, you''re really impressive. Not only are you outstanding, but your team is exceptional too," Trent said, unable to resist giving her a thumbs-up. Ophelia gave a slight nod but said nothing in response.


    She was somewhat surprised by the oue.


    Huxley Group''s absence today meant they had forfeited the project, but Ophelia didn''t quite understand why.


    She wondered, ''Could Mr. Carnegie have intervened? Or is this somehow rted to Keh?''


    The three of them walked out of the Urban Development Bureau''s main doors, and Cody immediately sent the news out in thepany''s group chat.


    The office erupted with excitement as soon as the message went out.


    Ophelia was happy too, but there was a lingering unease in her heart.


    She pulled out her phone and sent Keh a WhatsApp message. [Did you intervene?]


    Keh almost immediately replied: [What?]


    Ophelia: [It''s nothing.]


    ''If it wasn''t Keh, could it have been Mr. Carnegie?'' Ophelia wondered to herself. She didn''t believe for a second that the Huxley family would have so easily handed the project over to her. "Ophelia, why don''t we throw a celebration dinner tonight?" Cody suggested.

 Jilted Bride 245

    Ophelia snapped out of her thoughts and nced at the group chat, which had exploded with dozens of messages in just a short time.


    The atmosphere was one of widespread celebration, with various emojis flying all over.


    The people in thepany had really been working hardtely. Also, it seemed like thepany had never organized a meal since it was founded.


    It was about time to treat everyone.


    Ophelia nodded. "Alright, let''s book a nice ce. Don''t worry about the cost. We can''t shortchange anyone. This will count as a team-building event. It''s voluntary, and whether youe or not, everyone gets a bonus, 15% of your monthly sry as the bonus amount." "Got it!" Cody cheered.


    Cody, feeling grateful to have such a great boss, immediately got to work on making arrangements.


    Ophelia checked her phone. She hadn''t seen Chloe in a while, so she decided to invite her out as well. It would be a good opportunity for everyone to meet her.


    Ophelia then sent a message to Keh. [There''s a celebration dinner tonight, so I won''t be able to have dinner with you. Once we book a ce, I will send you the location. Come pick me up after it''s done.]


    Keh stared at the message on his screen.


    Ophelia''s tone was bing more and more like her usualmanding self, a direct and almost authoritative one. Keh''s fingers, long and defined, typed a quick reply. [Alright Ms. Spencer.]


    Ophelia smiled softly when she saw the reply.


    That evening, Cody had booked a restaurant with a great ambiance. The decor was sophisticated, and the menu was extensive.


    Almost everyone from thepany had shown up.


    Ophelia introduced Chloe to a few of the key members and then let them enjoy themselves while she stepped back and didn''t get involved in the festivities.


    Chloe took the opportunity to report on the recent developments at La Reverie.


    "Chloe, is Noah still staying with you?" Ophelia asked with a yful smile, her eyes narrowing slightly as they fixed on Chloe''s deep blue eyes.


    Chloe''s eyes were so striking, like jewels.


    -Chloe frowned slightly. "By the way, I heard that Keaton, one of the shareholders at Evend Hotel, was ousted by the major shareholders. He''s been selling his sharestely. Since we have sufficient funds, do you think we should buy his shares?" Ophelia raised an eyebrow. This was probably rted to Keh in some way.


    "Sure." Ophelia agreed, nodding. The more of Denex''s actual assets they could acquire, the more leverage they''d have when negotiating with political circles in the future.


    Ophelia trusted Chloe''s decision-makingpletely.


    In fact, Ophelia didn''t want to talk about work. She was more concerned about Chloe''s romantic situation.


    But every time Ophelia tried to bring it up, Chloe would quickly change the subject.


    After they''d finished most of their meal, Cody and Dan suggested they go to a club.


    Ophelia originally didn''t want to go. It was already close to 9 PM.


    "Come on, Ophelia. You''re our backbone! If you don''te, it won''t be any fun." "Yeah, Ophelia,e with us."


    With everyone urging her, Ophelia reluctantly agreed.


    "Alright, Chloe, how abouting too?" Ophelia said.


    9


    From the way Ophelia spoke, everyone could tell that her rtionship with Chloe was special. They had never heard Ophelia sound so gentle before.


    "I''ll pass. Wyatt''s still at home," Chloe replied.


    Chloe had left them money, yet she wasn''t sure whether they had eaten dinner yet. She couldn''t help but feel worried.


    97%


    "Isn''t Noah at your ce? He should be able to help you look after Wyatt. Don''t worry. We''ll only be gone for a little while," Ophelia said, smiling like a little fox.


    Her words left Chloe no room to argue.


    "Alright," Chloe replied.


    After Cody confirmed the reservation, the group left the restaurant in arge group and took taxis to the designated location.


    "Come on, Chloe, and ride with me," Ophelia said, opening the car door. Chloe sat in the passenger seat, and as soon as she got in, she noticed the two people sitting in the back, It was Ray and Eric.


    Chloe gave a small nod, a silent greeting.


    The ck SUV pulled away from the restaurant.


    Across the street, in a ck business car, Phoebe watched in disbelief.


    ''Emma is really alive?'' Phoebe thought.


    "Ms. Davidson, it really is Ms. Emma Davidson. But how is she with Ophelia? They seem to be getting along pretty well," Fiona said, confused.


    Fiona couldn''t forget Ophelia, the one who had blown up their base. She looked on with suspicion, her unease growing.


    If it weren''t for Jonathan being interested in her, and the fact that they couldn''t harm her, Ophelia never would have had the chance to escape back then.


    Phoebe stayed silent, her lips tight and her chest rising and falling with heavy breaths.


    She squinted, her mind quickly piecing everything together.


    11:05 Tue, Nov 26 GB.


    10, 97%¡ã


    ''Now it all makes sense. No wonder when Jonathan kidnapped Opheliast time, Keh was able to find the ce so quickly and precisely. It must have something to do with Emma Because the base was something she built herself, Phoebe thought. Phoebe should have guessed Emma knew Ophelia. She should have realized it when Ophelia was first kidnapped.


    Phoebe took a deep breath and regained herposure, then turned to Fiona.


    "Fiona, I think I need to meet Emma first and understand why she disappeared all those years ago. I don''t want to make any rash moves in case Emma vanishes again.


    "If that happens, all our efforts will have been for nothing. Don''t you think?" Phoebe said.


    "Ms. Davidson, you''re right. Should we not tell Mr. Davidson about this yet?" Fiona asked.


    "Let''s keep it between us for now. I want to give Jonathan a surprise," Phoebe said, her smile gentle as she exhaled slowly.


    Phoebe wouldn''t allow Emma to return to the Davidson family.


    If that happened, everything she had worked for over the past five years would have been in vain.


    *****


    Meanwhile, at Rosewood Manor, Keh received a message from Ophelia saying she would be backter.


    Keh frowned, and Wyatt suddenly leaned over to look at the screen.


    Wyatt, still a bit confused, studied the words on the screen. He had learned quite a few words already, and he could understand simple sentences.


    "Does that mean Mommy is going to bete too?" Wyatt asked.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Keh gave him a sidelong nce, clearly surprised that Wyatt could understand the message.


    Maybe, he replied, his tone still gentle.


    Beside Wyatt, Noah was sitting on the long furry carpet, fully absorbed in a video game, gripping the game controller with both hands.


    Wyatt looked at Noah, clearly annoyed. He sighed and turned back to Keh, his chubby little face breaking into a smile.


    "Ken, thank you for dinner today," Wyatt said.


    ''Uncle Noah really isn''t reliable. I had to be the one to thank Ken Wyatt thought to himself.


    "You''re wee..." Keh replied, giving Wyatt''s soft cheek a little pinch. He nced at Noah who was engrossed in his game with a look of disdain. "Come on. I''ll teach you how to y. Later, we''ll go with Ken to pick up your mommy and Ophelia," Noah said.


    "Okay," Wyatt said, sitting down next to Noah, both of them perfectly aligned.

 Jilted Bride 246

    Keh casually nced over in that direction, but his brow furrowed suddenly.


    A thought sprang into his mind.


    These two really did look like a father and son.


    This idea seemed to exin a few things. ''Could it be that when Noah came to Denex with me years ago, the person he was looking for was Chloe?'' Keh thought.


    But as Keh pondered, he felt that it didn''t make sense.


    Noah five years ago wouldn''t have done something like that.


    Yet, Keh still couldn''t shake the feeling that something wasn''t right.


    He turned his gaze back to the pair, therge and small figures, his deep eyes seeming to ponder something.


    In arge private room at a club, some people were ying billiards, others were singing, and there were even a few ying board games and enjoying other activities.


    Ophelia and Chloe were seated at a rtively quiet bar area, sipping their drinks while watching the others have fun.


    "Excuse me, are you the ones who ordered the drinks?" the server asked.


    "Yes," Chloe replied.


    The young


    male server, wearing a white shirt and ck vest, ced the drinks on the bar. "Enjoy it."


    He turned to leave, but as he picked up his tray, his eyes flicked toward Ophelia, his expression lighting up.


    "Hey? It''s you! What a coincidence," he said.


    Ophelia turned to look in the direction of the voice. The guy seemed familiar, and after thinking for a while, she finally connected him to the scruffy owner of the Electronics Market.


    "You... working part-time here?" Ophelia raised an eyebrow, impressed by his work ethic.


    After shedding his scruffy appearance, the guy looked well-groomed with fine features and smooth skin.


    Keith began. "Hey... business has been toughtely. I''ve got to make ends meet. By the way, here''s my business card. You can just call me Keith. If you ever need plumbing, lock-picking, or... wait. I misspoke... "Lock opening, moving, and stuff like that... just call me. I''ll give you the friends and family rate. Add me on WhatsApp, and I''m avable 24/7."


    ''Looks like he knows a lot,'' Ophelia mused.


    She epted the card with a polite smile.


    Keith smiled back and left the room, tray in hand.


    Ophelia nced at the card in her hand, which resembled a little flyer, and exined to Chloe, "He''s the owner of a stall in Electronics Market, where he sells all sorts of weird eavesdropping devices, pinhole cameras, and the like." 1/4


    Ophelia had been there a couple of times, so she at least recognized him.


    She looked at the phone number printed on the card, with a QR code beside it.


    She scanned it with her phone, and an add-friend page popped up.


    She didn''t expect his nickname to be Adult Products Manufacturer Direct Sales.


    Ophelia froze for a moment, quickly tapping a couple of times to exit the page and tossing the business card aside.


    ''How many part-time jobs does Keith actually have?'' Ophelia wondered.


    15


    Chloe, however, had been watching Keith leave and didn''t notice Ophelia''s reaction. A hint of wariness flickered in her deep blue eyes.


    "You should avoid from him now on," she advised.


    "Okay." Ophelia didn''t ask for further exnation. She wasn''t interested in getting involved with people she wasn''t familiar with.


    It was almost ten o''clock.


    Ophelia decided it was time to leave with Chloe.


    Tomorrow morning, Ophelia would give everyone a half-day off, and in the afternoon, they would have to fully dive into the development of the Westiend Railway Station. "Wow..."


    "Yeah."


    "Thank you, Ms. Spencer..."


    Once they were outside the club, Ophelia looked up and saw Keh''s imposing ck SUV parked by the side of the road.


    Keh was standing beside the car, wearing a ck cap, his hands tucked into the pockets of his suit pants, his tall and slender figure standing with poise.


    The warm yellow streetlight illuminated his chiseled jawline, casting a small shadow on the side of his nose. Just by standing there, his presence created a striking sight.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ophelia was about to walk over when the rear door of the car opened. Noah, wearing a round-neck knit sweater, stepped out. His handsome face wore a smile, which contrasted sharply with his sharp and serious features. Noah leaned forward at the car door, expertly lifting Wyatt out of the car with one arm, holding him to his side while waving at Chloe with the other hand.


    "Hey. We''re here to take you home," Noah said.


    Chloe''s heart skipped a beat, and she furrowed her brows, clearly displeased that Wyatt was out thiste. She was even more upset by his words.


    I-I don''t need him to take me home... Chloe thought.


    Chloe nced at Ophelia beside her, then looked up at Keh a wave of anxiety washing over her.


    Just as Chloe was about to step forward, a blinding light suddenly shed across her vision.


    A gray car from across the street seemed to be speeding like crazy, crashing through the median barrier and heading


    III


    10.10


    straight toward them.


    The car was going so fast that in just a second or two, it was right in front of them.


    Chloe had just taken a step forward, and before she could react, she quickly pivoted and pushed Ophelia aside.


    "Chloc..." Ophelia shouted.


    Bang! A loud crash sounded.


    Ophelia staggered a few steps, and two strong arms quickly steadied her, pulling her into a tight embrace. Keh''s cold, sharp gazended on the gray car.


    The car had crashed into the greenbelt, the hood was lifted, and thick smoke billowed from the front of the car. Things had happened so suddenly. By the time Ophelia reacted she immediately ran toward the crash site. "Chloe..." Ophelia muttered urgently.


    Chloe''s face had turned pale, her heart racing so violently it felt like it might burst out of her throat. Still stunned, she was held firmly in someone''s arms.


    "Chloe, are you hurt?" Ophelia asked, her expression just as grim, her eyes scanning Chloe up and down carefully.


    Chloe straightened her hair and shook her head, still not fully processing the shock.


    "Mommy, are you okay?" Wyatt ran over.


    Seeing Wyatt made Chloe finally realize how close she hade to losing her life, and fear began to take hold of her. Chloe knelt down and hugged Wyatt tightly, her heartbeat slowing down with effort. "It''s okay... I''m fine..." she murmured.


    Ophelia let out a long sigh of relief, her cold eyes finally turning toward the out-of-control gray car.


    "Damn it, you... you guys can''t even look at me?" Noah groaned in pain, his thick eyebrows knitted together as hey sprawled on the asphalt. "No one cares about me..."


    Only then did everyone''s attention shift to the person on the ground.


    Noah''s foot was still trapped under the wheel of the car, and he couldn''t move at all.


    Keh''s eyes narrowed, and without needing to speak, his bodyguards immediately acted, quickly moving Noah''s foot out from under the car and rushing him to the hospital. "Elia, you handle things here. I''ll go to the hospital with them," Chloe said, holding Wyatt, and followed the group to the car, heading to the hospital.


    Keh and Ophelia stayed behind.


    The car door of the gray car was severely deformed, and the driver inside had suffered a head injury, unconscious and bleeding.


    As the other car door opened, a strong stench of alcohol wafted out from inside.


    "This guy was drinking. Could it be drunk driving?" Ray spected.


    "It might not be that simple, Ophelia said darkly, exchanging a nce with Keh. Both of them could see the suspicion in each other''s eyes about this situation.


    On the second floor of the club, Keith received a phone call in the ss corridor, just in time to witness the scene. He gasped, shaken by what he saw.


    "This is terrifying... he wondered.


    "Wait... Why does that person look so familiar?" Keith said to himself.


    Wait a minute... I''ve finally found him,'' Keith thought.

 Jilted Bride 247

    Keith quickly ran downstairs, only to find that the car had already driven far away.


    He tugged at his hair in frustration and turned his gaze to Ophelia, who was standing nearby. "Hey, need some help?"


    At the sound of his voice, Ophelia nced at him briefly. "No, thanks."


    She had already called the police and an ambnce, waiting with Keh for the authorities to arrive.


    Keith nodded and casually asked, "The injured person just now. who is he to you?"


    As soon as he asked, he felt a chill run down his spine and a sharp gaze that sent a shiver to the back of his head.


    "I-I was just asking, no need to worry," Keith quickly added, shrugging and awkwardly scratching the back of his head with a nervous smile. Turning around, Keith nced once more in the direction the car had driven off.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ''Did I see that wrong?'' Keith wondered. After all, he had only met that guy once five years ago.


    Keith''d taken on this assignment because the price was high.


    2


    2


    ''If only I hadn''t been so greedy, now I''m stuck, he wondered. Since this job hadn''t been settled, he couldn''t take on any other assignments. What a pain. This is really messed up, Keith thought.


    As Keith walked back, someone suddenly brushed past him, their shoulders lightly colliding.


    In an instant, both of their steps stopped.


    y


    Keith turned his head and locked eyes with a pair of deep, unfathomable ones. His pupils instantly constricted.


    The young man''s eyes were cold, his wolf-tail long hair tied at the back, and when he smirked, a small fang peeked out from his lips.


    Both of them quickly averted their gaze and resumed walking as if nothing had happened.


    Eric shifted the lollipop from the right side of his mouth to the left, surprised by the encounter. He hadn''t expected to run into Shadow Z, once ranked among the top five in the assassin world.


    The reason his code name had Shadow was because of his skills in hiding, tracking, and counter-tracking, ess to certain intelligence.


    Five years had passed, and the assassin world had assumed he had vanished or been dealt with in secret.


    Little did they know, he was here in Denex.


    Shadow Z''s life was worth quite a bit of money.


    as well as his


    "What are you looking at?" Ray pped him on the back of the head. "Did you see a pretty girl or something?"


    "No. I saw a moving vault," Eric replied.


    "What?" Ray didn''t catch that and didn''t quite understand either


    Eric spat out the lollipop and looked at Ray excitedly. "Ray, don''t you want to retire early?"


    "Retire early? Who wouldn''t want that... Ray sighed after speaking, his brow furrowing deeply. There was a subtle trace of disappointment in his eyes


    Is Eric so eager for me to retire because he wants a new partner Ray wondered


    Eric shed a small fang and turned his head, eyeing the club they were passing


    Meanwhile, Keith returned to the club and went straight into the restroom.


    When Keith came out again, his appearance hadpletely changed. He blended in with the crowd and quietly slipped away unnoticed.


    "Wolf-tail long hair, small fang, that person has to be Phantom X Keith thought


    They had crossed paths before, and Keith could immediately sense the aura of that person.


    Keith hadn''t expected to run into him here in Denez. What bad luck! he wondered.


    Keith spat, checking his wristwatch.


    The watch disyed a digital image of an Al girl''s face. A swipe to the left revealed a picture of a three-year-old girl.


    He was getting sick of staring at these photos.


    "When is this damn mission going to be over?" Keith groaned.


    At the hospital, Noah had just finished getting X-rays. His ankle was fractured, and he''d need a cast.


    Hey in the hospital bed, looking utterly miserable. "Chloe, I got hurt saving you. You can''t just kick me out now."


    Chloe furrowed her brow and shot him a look.


    ''At a time like this, he''s still worried about whether I''ll kick him out? Is my ce really that great? Chloe thought. She didn''t respond, and Noah kept pestering her with questions.


    "Come on. Say something. I''m hurt..." Noah said.


    "If you keep asking like that, I might just start to suspect that the car tonight was something you arranged," Chloe said.


    Noah immediately pushed himself up. "No way. Am I crazy? How could you think that? Even if I want to use a trick, at least, I will keep my life first."


    Noah was definitely very attached to his life right now.


    Chloe let out a lightugh, knowing that her joke had made Noah blurt out the truth.


    "A fake illness?" she said.


    Noah immediately felt guilty, deting like a balloon. He flopped back down on the bed, closed his eyes, and whimpered in pain


    "The feverst time was real, and this time the fracture is real too. I didn''t lie to you. I hate being lied to more than anything, so I never lie to anyone," Noah said.


    Chloe''s smile froze, and she turned her gaze away. "Alright, I''ll go pay the bill. Wyatt, watch over Uncle Noah."


    "Don''t worry, Mommy. I''ll keep an eye on Uncle Noah, Wyatt responded.


    Chloe nodded in approval, ruffling Wyatt''s hair, and then headed downstairs to pay.


    In the meantime, Ophelia called to check on Noah.


    "He fractured his ankle, but it''s nothing serious. How''s everything on your end?" said Chloe.


    Ophelia stood in the police station lobby, sighing as she watched the surveince footage. "The driver was drunk."


    0


    +6


    Although she didn''t want to believe it, the evidence from the footage made it clear. The driver''s movements were normal up until the moment he tried to turn his car around after leaving the club.


    He should''ve pressed the brake to slow down, but instead, he identally pressed the gas pedal and sped up.


    There were no suspicious figures in any of the surveince footage.


    The driver''s blood alcohol content was indeed high.


    "Do you think it was aimed at you?" Chloe asked.


    "Yes." After all, Ivy had said those things to Ophelia before, and maybe she really intended to make a move on Ophelia.


    "Don''t worry. I think Mr. Sinir will handle it well." Chloe reassured her.


    "Okay." Ophelia nodded in response and hung up the phone.


    She briefed Keh on Noah''s condition. "Let''s go see him tomorrow morning. It''s gettingte now, and Chloe is with him, so nothing should happen."


    Keh''s face was cold and grim. He had been silent since the incident urred.


    His deep eyes were hiding whatever thoughts were running through his mind.


    "Who do you suspect?" he asked, his voice a little raspy.


    "It might just be an ident," Ophelia said, trying to downy her worries. "Let''s not overthink it." If Ivy really wanted to kill her, then this attempt might''ve failed, but there would certainly be more toe. Next time, Ophelia would be ready.


    "I don''t think it was Ivy," Keh said, looking at Ophelia with an intense focus.


    Ophelia bit her lip. She had suspected Ivy before, but she didn''t want to put Keh in an awkward position, so she hadn''t mentioned it.


    However, Keh''s tone was so certain that it piqued her curiosity.


    "Why?" Ophelia asked.


    "She''s already back in Mgia. With her personality, she wouldn''t stoop to something like this." Keh replied.


    Ivy was skilled with poisons, drugs, and methods of torture, all of which were things she would use.


    Trying to kill Ophelia in an ident wasn''t the kind of tactic Ivy would choose.


    Besides...


    "Well, if that''s the case, it really is just an ident. You''ve already put pressure on the police, so let''s wait for their


    investigation," Ophelia said


    "Okay," Keh agreed.


    ''If it wasn''t Ivy, then who else could possibly want me dead?'' C

 Jilted Bride 248

    Early the next morning, in the hospital room, the warm sunlight of the morning filtered through the white curtains, casting, soft rays into the room.


    Chloe rubbed her forehead, just opening her eyes when she was met with a pair of eyes, staring at her without blinking.


    For a moment, she felt like she had returned to the past, back when Noah didn''t know who she was and why she had gotten close to him.


    In his deep blue eyes, it was as if waves were crashing, slowly softening


    In the still room, Chloe could hear the erratic beating of her own heart.


    "When are we going home? The hospital bed isn''tfortable at all, not like the couch at home." Noah stretchedzily, clearly not having slept well. Hearing that familiar voice but with an unfamiliar tone, speaking a long string of words, Chloe immediately lost the tenderness that had been in her eyes. "There''s another check-up in the morning. After that, we can go home," Chloe replied as she stood up from the couch, a nket slipping off her as she did. Wyatt had been sent home by Chloest night, so this nket definitely wasn''t his.


    She picked it up from the floor and set it aside, ncing at Noah in the bed. "I''m going downstairs to get breakfast. Do you want anything?" "Pie, of course," said Noah.


    "Alright." Chloe turned and walked out, not needing to ask him what kind of pie. Some habits and tastes, even with his memory loss, hadn''t changed.


    As Chloe reached the door, she nced back into the room once more.


    Noah was lying in bed, resting his hands behind his head, gazingzily at the white ceiling.


    Her eyes, long and intense, refused to look away, yet had to.


    Chloe left the room and entered the elevator.


    As the elevator doors slowly closed, a tall, strong figure dressed in ck stepped out from another elevator, nked by two bodyguards wearing the same ck uniforms. His long eyshes fluttered, and his amber eyes gleamed in the morning sunlight, turning a rich golden hue.


    He quickly located the room, peering through the ss at the man in the bed. Upon seeing his foot in a cast, his stern brows furrowed.


    His soft features hardened in an instant, his face turning serious


    He entered the room, and the two bodyguards stood by the door, one on each side.


    Hearing the door open, Noah shifted slightly. "Did you forget your wallet or something? How did you..."


    Before he could finish, he saw who had entered.


    "What are you doing here?" Noah was visibly displeased by his arrival. All he could remember was that this man was his


    brother:


    "Noah, Dad sent me to take you back, Adams said, his tone all business, with little emotion


    "Back where? ''To Waston? Noah was adamantly against going back.


    Noticing the resistance in Noah''s eyes, Adams didn''t waste time Noah, Ronin ising back at the end of the month.


    "He''s been at the research institute abroad for so long, trying to gure out how to help you regain your memory. Now he has a solution, so you need to go back


    After all, Noah held a lot of valuable information, and so much had been dyed over the years. Many matters were waiting to be dealt with. "Regain my memory?" A spark of interest flickered in Noah''s eye


    Adams observed Noah closely, thinking, ''Since when has Noah been interested in regaining his memory? He used to be indifferent about it."


    "Doesn''t matter. I need to wait until my foot heals first," Noah said, feeling a sudden reluctance at the idea of leaving, a hollow feeling in his chest.


    "I came here to bring you back. I have to take you back now," Adams replied, ncing at Noah''s foot in the cast. He had to ensure Noah''s safety. Such an incident couldn''t happen again.


    An unexpected surge of anger flooded Noah''s chest, and his entire presence suddenly became tense and defensive. "Didn''t you say Ronin''sing back at the end of the month? Can''t I just go back then?" Adams pressed his lips together, momentarily taken aback by the intense energy Noah had just radiated.


    Adams wanted to say something, but before he could open his mouth, a woman appeared in the doorway of the hospital room, carrying breakfast, only to be stopped by two bodyguards


    "Do you still need something? If not, you can leave now. I won''t keep you for breakfast. She didn''t buy anything for you, and I won''t have enough for myself," Noah said.


    The invisible pressure in the room instantly dissipated.


    Adams furrowed his brows, unsure of how to respond to Noah''s attitude.


    Looking up at the woman in the doorway, then back at Noah''s expression, Adams'' furrowed brows suddenly rxed, as if he understood something.


    But that couldn''t be. Their father would never approve of Noah marrying an ordinary woman.


    He gestured to the bodyguards, signaling them to let her in.


    "Hello, I''m Noah''s brother, Adams." He nodded slightly and pulled a file from his briefcase, handing it to her along with a check.


    Even though Adams hadn''t introduced himself, Chloe recognized him.


    After all, Adams was a well-known figure in the legal field, having appeared on legal talk shows and been in the public eye for quite some time.


    Chloe gave a small nod, acknowledging him.


    She knew what Adams'' presence meant.


    Adams was here to take Noah back.


    Chloe had known this day woulde sooner orter.


    Yesterday, when Noah had gotten injured for her, Chloe had already realized.


    She ced the breakfast, pies and some milk, on the table.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Chloe pushed it in front of Noah. She had no intention of sitting down to eat with him.


    "I won''t stay for your check-up this morning. I''ll go back and pack your things," Chloe said.


    Though, there wasn''t much to pack.


    Noah paused with his fork in midair. "What did you just say? Are you kicking me out? Didn''t we agreest night? You said you wouldn''t make me leave anymore." Noah''s expression, like that of an abandoned child, tightened with a frown, and his eyes locked onto hers with intensity.


    It was the same look he had given her back when he questioned if she had known his true identity all along, and had deliberately approached him. Chloe''s throat tightened, and she couldn''t speak.


    Her expression mirrored the one from that time. She averted her gaze from the look he was giving her, and it took a long while for her to find her voice again.


    "I didn''t promise you," Chloe said.


    Last night, she hadn''t promised him.


    This time, Chloe hadn''t lied to him.


    "You... really want to kick me out?" Noah asked again, his voice filled with unwillingness. His eyes were desperate, searching for an answer from her.


    "Do I really disgust you that much? Do you really want me gone? Have I really disturbed your life that much?" Noah asked. Each word was like a heavy stone, pressing down on her chest, making it hard to breathe.


    Seeing Chloe''s silence, Noah lowered his gaze, looking like a discarded puppy, whining softly as his head drooped. Adams nced at the woman again, feeling that she seemed reasonable, and there was no need for him to waste more words. Adams handed her the confidentiality agreement. "This is a non-disclosure agreement. During the time Noah stays with you, please don''t let anyone know. You can list all the expenses incurred, and I will reimburse you double. In addition, and..." money, there''s a 200 thousand hush


    "No need," Chloe interrupted.


    She took the confidentiality agreement and signed her name without hesitation on thest page.

 Jilted Bride 249

    Chloe''s movements were swift,pletely devoid of any emotion.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Noah blinked and lowered his head, shoveling pieces of pie into his mouth. It was his favorite vor, yet he found it tasteless.


    "You should still take the money. I know I''ve caused you quite a bit of trouble," Noah mumbled, his words muffled by the pie in his mouth.


    Chloe''s hand, still holding the contract, trembled, her heart tightening.


    She couldn''t even bring herself to look at Noah''s expression as he spoke those words while lying in bed.


    "There''s no need to worry. The agreement you signed includes a gift use. You can ept this money without any hesitation," Adams said, his long, clean fingers holding a check as he handed it over.


    Chloe looked down, her eyes slightly reddened. She stared at the check, hesitating, unable to take any further action.


    "Even if you don''t take it, I''ll make sure the money gets to your ount. The West family doesn''t owe anyone a favor," Adams added.


    His implication was clear.


    Once this was settled, she shouldn''t try to use it to bargain for anything from the West family.


    When Ophelia walked in, this was the scene she encountered.


    Ophelia quickly rushed to Chloe''s side, instantly bing a protective shield, her entire posture bristling with defense as she stood up for the person she cared about.


    "The West family really is efficient, isn''t it? Not a trace of emotion.


    "Is this how you settle things, just exchanging money and calling it even?" Ophelia''s delicate brow furrowed, her clear, unclouded eyes staring coldly at Adams, their chill a stark contrast to the warmth she had shown earlier. Adams was taken aback. "No, you misunderstand. This is just appropriatepensation. If you feel it''s not enough..."


    Adams, always clear-headed, suddenly found himself at a loss for words.


    He felt uneasy under Ophelia''s gaze, as though he were being reprimanded by his own mother.


    "I don''t need it," Chloe said, cutting him off.


    "Then please take it back, Mr. West," Ophelia said, her voice icy and sharp.


    Adams instinctively pulled the check back, looking toward the door for help, his eyes pleading toward Keh, who stood there casually with his hands in his pockets. "Keh..." Adams hesitated.


    Say something, will you? This is your woman, Adams thought.


    "Didn''t you hear Ophelia? Keh saidzily, ncing at Adams. His narrow eyes met Adams'' amber gaze.


    Keh seemed to be saying, "No matter who you are, Ophelia has the final say."


    Adams swallowed the words he was about to say, realizing that Keh had no limits when it came to indulging a woman.


    Adams should have known this when Keh had him help bai Ophelia out of the police station.


    Adams reluctantly took back the check, handing Chloe her copy of the contract. His tone softened just a little as he spoke, "If you have any questions about the contract, you can always contact me. My phone number''s on it. Ophelia nced over the contents of the agreement, catching only a few lines. [Both parties are not to meet in the future.


    [The second party shall not mention anything rted to the first party in public. Even if they encounter each other in a public setting, the second party shall not acknowledge him...]


    ''Is... is this a non-disclosure agreement?'' Ophelia thought, ncing at Chloe. ''Did she really just sign this?''


    It wasn''t fair. Noah had practically forced his way into staying at Chloe''s ce, and now they were treating her so cruelly.


    Before Ophelia could speak, Chloe patted the back of her hand,


    "Wyatt''s still at home alone. I''ll go now," Chloe said, putting the contract away. She gave Ophelia a reassuring look, signaling that she was okay.


    Chloe turned and left the room, leaving Noah only with her retreating figure.


    Noah, still chewing on his pie, felt a sudden sharp pain in his chest, his heart tightening again.


    "I''ll walk you out," Ophelia said.


    After knowing Chloe for so long, Ophelia had rarely seen her so down.


    Ophelia followed closely behind Chloe, and they both exited the room together.


    In the hospital room, Keh sat on the sofa with his legs crossed, casting a casual nce at Noah''s foot, which was in a cast. "The injury''s not that serious," he said indifferently.


    "Even if he wasn''t injured, my father wants him to return as soon as possible. Ronin''sing back at the end of the month, you know," Adams exined, ncing over at Noah, who was still shoving pie into his mouth.


    It was clear Noah was in a bad mood.


    "Noah, I know you have feelings for that woman, but you need to understand your position. Once your memoryes back, you won''t feel the same way about her. So, you''d better juste back with me and stop this nonsense," Adams said. His tone was like he was trying to calm a child.


    Noah struggled to swallow the pie in his mouth, feeling a sharp contradiction in his heart. He didn''t agree with what Adams was saying, but he had grown used to not contradicting them.


    It didn''t matter anymore.


    Once Noah''s memory returned, he would be aplete person, and with his mind functioning well again, he could pursue the person he liked as Keh did.


    After a short silence, Noah took a sip of milk. "Get me discharged as soon as possible. I''ll go home and pack my things."


    He still wanted to go back once more.


    "Thank you, Elia. I''m fine. I''ll go back and pack his things. Don''t worry about me," Chloe said.


    Chloe managed a weak smile, her voice hoarse, and even cracked a little, as though her throat was constricted.


    <


    10:17 Wed,


    Ophelia stared at


    her face just a fesloe for a long time. Her back was straight, and her body was slender. The rosy glow Chloe had had on


    days ago was now gone.


    Standing in the sunlight, Chloe''s deep blue eyes carried an innate aloofness and coldness, like a lone silver wolf in the snow, destined to be alone.


    "Chloe, if there''s anything on your mind, you can talk to me," Ophelia said, a hint of guilt in her voice. She knew Noah''s true identity but hadn''t stopped it, letting things unfold as they did.


    In the end, it was Chloe who got hurt.


    "I don''t have anything on my mind. It''s fine, Elia. I''m really going now. I don''t want Wyatt to be home alone for too long. "Tell Noah his things will be at the supermarket on the first floor. He can send someone to pick them up," Chloe said. Without waiting for Ophelia to respond, Chloe turned and gged down a taxi by the side of the road.


    Chloe had been through much worse before, and now things were much better.


    At least Chloe still had Wyatt.


    When she returned to her apartment and opened the door, the moments of the past month seemed to unfold in front of her, each memory ying out in this very room.


    Chloe knew this day woulde eventually.


    She had known all along.


    The small apartment was filled with Noah''s presence. It looked like she''d need to find a new ce.


    The room was neatly tidied, probably cleaned before Chloe was picked up yesterday.


    Noah''s obsessivepulsive tendencies hadn''t changed one bit.


    Warm tears streamed down her cheeks, falling inrge drops to the floor.


    Chloe copsed weakly by the entrance, not daring to cry too loudly.


    She didn''t know how much time had passed, but suddenly, the door to the room clicked open.


    Chloe looked up, her back stiffening.


    "What''s wrong?" Noah''s voice came from behind her.


    Hearing that familiar voice from behind, Chloe felt as though her heart stopped beating.


    She wiped away her tears and stood up but didn''t dare to turn around.


    Chloe had forgotten that she had given Noah a spare key.

 Jilted Bride 250

    Noah leaned on his cane as he stepped through the door.


    Bang!


    The door mmed shut, causing Chloe to shiver slightly.


    Inside the small entryway, Noah''s tall figurepletely overshadowed Chloe.


    She was slender, dressed in a ck knit sweater, her spine visible under the fabric. Her long hair was casually clipped up with a pearl hairpin, and her shoulders subtly rose and fell. This feeling was all too familiar to Noah, so familiar that it filled the emptiness in his heart in an instant.


    "Chloe, did you cry? Did someone hurt you?" Noah stood in the entryway, his eyes fixed on her back. For a moment, he felt a bit unsure of himself.


    "No..." Chloe''s heavy nasal tone betrayed her.


    After a brief silence, Noah seemed to realize something.


    "You... don''t want me to leave?" Noah asked.


    As soon as he said this, Noah suddenly smiled. His face, which had been tense just moments ago, lit up with joy, his deep-set eyes carrying a hint of pride.


    Noah took a couple of steps forward, gently pulling Chloe into his embrace, his movements awkward, like he was hugging a friend.


    "I''m notpletely stupid. I can tell, right?" Noah let go of his cane and gripped Chloe''s shoulders with both hands.


    Seeing her eyes red from crying, Noah''s heart tightened.


    He felt a wave of sympathy for her, but also a sense of helplessness.


    Chloe lowered her head, feeling the warmth from his hands as they rested on her. Her arms around his neck tightened. "You''re wrong. I didn''t..."


    Before Chloe could finish, everything in front of her went dark, and Noah''s scent enveloped her.


    Her lips softened, and all she could see were Noah''s sharp brows and his baby-like eyshes.


    The kiss was soft, so light it almost felt like a feather brushing against her before pulling away.


    Noah swallowed, his hands clenched into fists, his nerves showing like that of an inexperienced boy. A flush crept up cheeks, adding an unexpected tenderness to his otherwise stern face. his


    "Wait... wait for me toe back. Don''t move, and don''t let me lose track of you. I will definitelye back for you," Noah said.


    Chloe looked at the clumsy man in front of her, her delicate brows tinged with a faint pink. Her eyes and the tip of her nose turned red.


    Tears swirled in her deep blue eyes, and she dared not blink too hard, afraid to let them fall.


    She sniffed, wishing his words were true.


    III


    But when Noah remembered how she had deceived him step by step in the past, he would definitely leave her again without looking back, just like before.


    Chloe lowered her gaze, the tears hitting the floor, avoiding Noal''s intense stare.


    She nodded, her voice hoarse and choked. "Okay, I''ll wait for you toe back


    Like every time they had parted, Chloe said she would wait for him.


    But Chloe knew this time, he wouldn''t being back.


    Noah grinned, his white teeth shing as he smiled foolishly and endearingly. He hopped forward on one leg, pulling her into a hug.


    "Wait for me toe back, and make me some sauced beef steak. Then we''ll live in a bigger house. I don''t have money right now. When I get money ande back, I''ll buy you your favorite blue iris." "Okay." Chloe nodded.


    Chloe''s hands slowly moved upward, but before she could hold Noah, he straightened up.


    "Then don''t bother packing my things," Noah said with a smile, his eyes seeming to hold a piece of the stars.


    "Remember to miss me. I''m leaving now. Wait for me toe back." Noah leaned on his cane, stepping back outside and waving at Chloe.


    Il be back as soon as I can,'' Noah thought firmly.


    The gap in the door grew smaller, and Noah''s face slowly disappeared behind it.


    As the door closed, Chloe''s heart skipped a beat.


    Listening to the sound of the elevator opening and closing, Chloe quickly turned and rushed out of the door. The elevator doors shut, and it began to descend.


    Chloe hurriedly turned back inside, not even bothering to change her shoes. She ran straight to the balcony.


    A gentle breeze blew across Chloe''s forehead, her stray locks of hair fluttering. She watched Noah get into the car, the vehicle slowly pulling away, getting farther and farther.


    "Noah, if I told you that when I first met you, I didn''t know who you were, would you believe me?" Chloe asked.


    Tears blurred her vision, falling down her cheeks and kissing her side face.


    Chloe still remembered the first time she met Noah.


    At the Yosk Opera House, the Davidson family''s deal had been exposed, leading to conflict and gunshots.


    She had been pushed to the outer perimeter as an innocent bystander, and as she rushed forward, arge hand suddenly gripped her wrist.


    Someone pulled her away from the opera house.


    At the time, Yosk was nketed in snow, and Noah was wearing a ck leather trench coat and leather gloves. The dim light fell across his cold face, and his sharp brows furrowed slightly. He said, "Stay out of this."


    Noah''s voice was cold and stern, like a strict old gentleman.


    She seemed to have cald, "Thank you, Sir."


    She vaguely remembered the surprised expression on Keh''s face.


    Thinking of this, Chloe smiled, but as the smile tugged at her lips, more tears fell.


    The memories she had locked away rushed back like a flood, swirling in her mind.


    It wasn''t until Ophelia called that Chloe regained her focus.


    The phone rang several times before she found her voice and answered.


    "Chloe, did Noahe by?" Ophelia asked.


    5


    "Yeah, he came. Don''t worry about me, Elia. We''ll handle our issues ourselves. You and Mr. Sinir don''t need to bother with us," Chloe replied.


    Ophelia hesitated, letting out a sigh, which Chloe could hear clearly.


    "I''m fine. Don''t worry. Wyatt''s about to wake up, so I''ll talk to youter," Chloe added.


    On a wide road, a low-key Maybach passed by.


    In the backseat, Ophelia held her disconnected phone in one hand, and the other was firmly sped by Keh. His hand had squeezed each of her slender fingers. "Based on what you knew of Noah before, do you think that if he gets his memory back, he won''t like Chloe anymore, like Adams said?" Ophelia asked. She didn''t want Chloe to get hurt.


    "Who can say for sure about something like that?" Keh replied.


    Keh didn''t even know if Noah liked women.


    Ophelia pulled her hand out of Keh''s grasp, clearly annoyed, and she didn''t feel like talking to him anymore.


    "Feelings are something the people involved have to sort out themselves. You don''t need to worry about it," Keh said, reaching up to rub Ophelia''s head. He gazed at her for a long time.


    But after everything that had happenedst night, Keh actually felt a bit more at ease about Chloe.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    After all, when they were faced with danger, Chloe''s instinct was to push Ophelia away.


    That kind of immediate, instinctive reaction was something one couldn''t fake.


    At least Ophelia had someone like that to protect her, which eased Keh''s worries somewhat.


    "These next few days, put your work aside and take a few days off" Keh suggested.


    "Why?" Ophelia turned her head, looking at Keh seriously.


    They were about to get their marriage license in a few days. It shouldn''t take long, and Ophelia didn''t think it required any special time off.

 Jilted Bride 251

    Keh''s long fingers gently brushed through Ophelia''s soft hair as he exined, "When I first took over Sinir Groupst year, we acquired a small ind.


    "It''s now developed into a seaside resort area. Are you interested ining with me to check out the results? I heard it''s been quite poprtely, and we''ve never taken a vacation together, have we?" Ophelia thought for a moment and realized he was right. She couldn''t recall a time they''d spent a proper vacation together.


    "But what about the work I have on hand?" Ophelia asked.


    She still wasn''t fully familiar with Sinir Group, and she had just secured the Westiend Railway Station project. On top of that, she needed to prepare for the uing bid for the stadium. Ophelia felt like there was a mountain of work waiting for her.


    "I''ll help you with the important tasks over the next couple of days. The less urgent stuff can be dyed. Anything else can be handled by Mark.


    He can take charge at thepany. If there''s something you can''t solve, leave it to him. Also, we can have Liam to help out," Keh said.


    They could leave the old-timers at thepany to Liam.


    "Do you really think there''s anything I can''t solve with you around?" Ophelia said, wrapping her arms around Keh''s waist and burying her face in his chest. Ophelia felt that it was indeed time to rx.


    She had been so caught up in work recently that she hadn''t had time to enjoy quality moments with Keh.


    It had almost been a year since they''d been together.


    Time really flew by.


    Keh''s heart skipped a beat as he lightly traced his fingers over Ophelia''s slender back.


    "Then I''ll head to thepany this afternoon to sort out the work tasks, and I''ll also stop by Denex University," Ophelia said.


    She still needed to deal with Zackary''s video, which hadn''t been made public yet.


    Ophelia wasn''t sure if Zackary had learned his lesson or if he had toned things down recently.


    "Alright, I''ll head back to Sinir Group and wait for you," Keh replied.


    The ck Maybach stopped at the intersection, and Ophelia got out, climbing into the ck SUV behind it.


    The two of them automatically took seats in the back.


    The car drove toward Denex University.


    Ophelia had already informed Raphael that she wouldn''t be able to substitute for a while.


    Today, she was officiallying to hand over her duties. She had heard that the school had invited Madeline as a guest lecturer, so Ophelia needed to clear out her office. 09:31 Thu, Nov 28 B


    Ophelia entered the faculty building and ran into a professor from the architecture department. She nodded slightly to greet him.


    However, the professor furrowed his brows, adjusted his sses, and sighed, shaking his head.


    Ophelia found this strange but didn''t think much of it.


    She turned the corner and continued walking toward her office.


    At this time, the teachers from various departments were heading out to their sses, gradually emerging from their offices.


    Several teachers who usually greeted Ophelia didn''t even look at her today. Instead, they turned their heads away, lowering their eyes as they walked past. "Today''s young people have no shame."


    "Exactly. You really wouldn''t expect it. She looks so proper, but can''t believe she''d do something like that."Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Shh... Don''t say anything. Don''t let her hear you."


    Their voices were already quiet, but Ophelia had excellent hearing, and every word reached her ears.


    ''Are they talking about me? Seems like I missed something that I wasn''t supposed to know,'' Ophelia thought.


    The door to her office was open, and inside stood Madeline in a brown business suit, arms crossed, leaning against the desk.


    On the couch by the wall, Lesly and Carly were sitting side by side, their faces tense with worry.


    As Ophelia approached the door, all three of them turned to look at her.


    "Hi, Professor Spencer..." Carly and Lesly stood up, ncing at Madeline as they waited for her to speak first.


    "Darling, have you seen the forum on Denex University''s website?" Madeline asked.


    ''Forum? What forum? Ophelia wondered in surprise.


    From the look on Ophelia''s face, it was clear she had no idea what was going on.


    Carly added, "I don''t know who started the rumors, but... they say you... seduced the department head, Zackary. And they even said you personally invited Mr. Gross to... you know... the hotel... Lesly lowered her head, clearly feeling guilty. "Professor Spencer, this is all my fault."


    Ophelia''s eyes narrowed in realization. Now she understood why the teachers had been giving her those looks.


    So Zackary had turned things around on her, ming her instead.


    She should''ve known that jerk would get back at her somehow.


    Ophelia had nned to handle things privately with Raphael today, but since Zackary was pushing it, she had no intention of holding back anymore.


    "Darling, what exactly is going on here?" Madeline asked. She had just arrived today and had already heard a lot of gossip.


    Madeline believed that someone who Summer liked could never do something like that.


    Besides, with her strength, Ophelia didn''t need to seduce Zackary.


    Ophelia gave a yful smile, her face showing a nonchnt expression.


    0


    "It''s nothing. I''ll take care of it." She nced at Lesly and Carly. She hadn''t expected those who had bullied her before her time travel toe and show concern for her now. ''Looks like people need to get stronger first,'' Ophelia thought.


    "You two go back and get ready for ss. Don''t worry about it," Ophelia said.


    When Lesly had maliciously spread rumors about her online back then, it hadn''t worked, and this time would be no different.


    Lesly gave Ophelia a look and met her gaze, thinking, ''I was truly blind back then. How could I have had a falling out with someone as good as Professor Spencer?''


    They knew Ophelia couldn''t possibly have tried to seduce Zackary.


    They didn''t understand why the teachers and students believed it. No matter how many times they exined, it just didn''t make sense.


    The two of them left the office, leaving Ophelia and Madeline alone.


    Ophelia had only been at the university for two months, so she didn''t have much to pack up. She only took the embroidery notebook Enzo had given her.


    There wasn''t much else to take.


    "That day... were you okay?" Madeline asked.


    She referred to the day of the designer conference.


    "I''m fine, thank you for believing in me," Ophelia said. She and Madeline weren''t exactly close, just acquaintances, but Madeline had trusted her without making assumptions like everyone else, and Ophelia felt grateful for that. "Of course, I believe you. The ones spreading those rumors are probably just jealous of you," Madeline said.


    Ophelia was so talented and beautiful that it was hard not to be envious of her.


    Ophelia smiled. "You go to ss now."


    "Okay, if you need anything, feel free to ask," Madeline said, picking up some documents from the desk.


    Just then, a group of students rushed toward the back of the teaching building, their voices buzzing.


    Madeline and Ophelia exchanged a look, sensing that something was happening.


    "What''s going on?" Madeline asked, confused.


    "Let''s go take a look," Ophelia said.


    The two of them quickly walked out of the teaching building.


    Following the crowd, they looked up toward the rooftop.


    The scene was too familiar.


    Suddenly, a long-buried memory surged into Ophelia''s mind.


    The murmurs around them grew louder.


    "Who is that? Can''t see it clearly from here."


    "Don''t you know? It''s Briony Xenos from the architectural design major."


    "Oh... her? The one from Gloomhaven who caught a disease, the most disliked person on campus?"


    "Yeah, that''s her. She''s from the Gloomhaven and only has that one outfit. It''s filthy."


    "What''s going on this time? Trying to get attention?"

 Jilted Bride 252

    In an avnche, no single snowke was innocent.


    Ophelia cast a cold, disdainful nce at the crowd.


    She could hardly believe that these words wereing from the mouths of top students from Denex University.


    Before long, fire trucks arrived. Teachers and school administrators began evacuating the crowd, cordoning off the area.


    Ophelia lifted the caution tape and charged through, sprinting toward the rooftop.


    Even with the building''s height, over ten stories, she managed to run faster than the firefighters.


    Briony was the girl who, as a child, had lost a finger.


    She''d grown up beautiful and, in high school, received sponsorship to attend college.


    Before time travel, Ophelia had only heard about a girl who, unable to endure Zackary''s harassment and threats, had left behind a recording before jumping off a building. She''d died in the ICU less than a dayter. What Ophelia hadn''t expected was that the girl in question was Briony.


    Zackary had always managed to evade justice because he chose his victims carefully, targeting girls others envied or disliked, those who were withdrawn or socially isted.


    At the time, Zackary had deliberately smeared Briony''s reputation. With his unassuming appearance, he managed to fool


    everyone.


    For the sake of the school''s reputation, the incident had been buried.


    And because of Briony''s circumstances, an orphan with no rtives, there had been no one to advocate for her.


    Zackary not only escaped punishment but even garnered sympathy from others.


    Meanwhile, Briony, the true victim, was bombarded with vile words and cruelty.


    The door to the rooftop mmed open under Ophelia''s force.


    Briony stood at the edge in a white dress. The wind was strong, causing her dress to billow, her long hair whipping chaotically around her gaunt frame.


    She looked frail, her body skeletal and devoid of vitality, teetering on the brink.


    "Briony, do you remember me?" Ophelia called out, her chest rising and falling as she tried to soften her voice.


    Briony turned her head slowly, her vacant eyes rimmed with dark circles glimmering faintly. "Ophelia..." Ophelia nodded fervently. "It''s me, Briony. Can you believe we''ve met again? Remember the promise we made as kids?" Briony thought for a moment before replying, "I remember. To build houses and schools in Gloomhaven..."


    "Yes, that''s right, houses and schools. Come down, okay? I''m already working on it. We''re so close to developing that area. Come down, please," said Ophelia.


    Briony''s gaze remained hollow, though the corners of her lips lifted into a strained smile as if even that hurt. "Really? But, Ophelia... I''m so tired..."


    1


    The wind scattered her words, leaving Ophelia straining to catch them.


    "I know what you''ve been through. If you have evidence, I can help you bring him down. Don''t do anything reckless." Ophelia pleaded.


    At that moment, school officials, along with others, began arriving on the rooftop one after another.


    77%1


    The instant Briony saw Zackary among them, fear flooded her eyes. She stepped back, one foot hovering precariously over the void.


    "Briony!" Ophelia frowned deeply, taking a few steps forward. "When have I ever lied to you? I can help you. Trust me."


    Cade, the vice principal, frowned and stepped in. "What are you all talking about? Briony, on the way up here, Mr. Gross already exined everything to me. He won''t breathe a word about this. There''s no need to resort to such measures." Cade''s voice carried a mix of sorrow and disappointment. ''Briony is shameless. To secure a job after graduation, she actually tried to seduce Mr. Gross,'' he thought with a sigh.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    "It was Zackary who threatened me! If I didn''t listen to him..." Briony began, but Zackary cut her off.


    "Briony, you''re about to graduate. You''ve worked so hard to get into Denex University. You can''t..." he began.


    "Shut up!" Ophelia roared, ring daggers at Zackary.


    It was clear these were the same lines Zackary had used to manipte Briony before.


    As expected, hearing his words only made Briony''s emotions spiral further out of control.


    "Four years... Four whole years..." Briony murmured, each word hitting Ophelia like a hammer to her heart.


    Her fists clenched tightly, as though she wanted nothing more than to tear Zackary apart.


    "Words cut deep. Even if I survive, I have nothing left. If my death can bring justice to these monsters..." Briony trailed off. "No. Your death will only let him get away with it even more. Briony,e down..." Ophelia''s voice was swallowed by the wind. It was as if Briony hadn''t heard her at all.


    "Ophelia, since my freshman year in architecture, I''ve been working on a design. I hope you can use it someday.


    "If there''s a next life, I don''t want to be someone from Gloomhaven again..." Briony wore a faint smile. Briony''s entire life had been gued by discrimination and hardship.


    With those words, she closed her eyes and began to lean backward, her entire body tipping away from the rooftop. "No... please!" Ophelia lunged forward, and two firefighters rushed in from either side. Ophelia reached Briony.


    She grabbed her.


    "Briony, don''t let go... please don''t..." Ophelia''s voice cracked as she pleaded.


    Thank you, Ophelia, for sending me off in my final moments." Briony smiled faintly, releasing Ophelia''s hand.


    "No... please..." Ophelia choked out, desperationcing her voice.


    The warmth of Briony''s fingers slipped away little by little. At that moment, Ophelia had never wanted so badly to hold onto


    something.


    Half her body leaned dangerously over the railing as she watched, helpless, as Briony slipped from her grasp and plummeted downward.


    Bang! The impact resounded through the air.


    Below, Briony''s white dress fanned out like a grotesque, blood-red rose blooming against the cold, hard ground.


    ''I had her... I could''ve pulled her up,'' Ophelia thought, her mind a whirlwind of anguish.


    Watching a vibrant life vanish through her fingers, Ophelia''s eyes turned bloodshot.


    "Hey... why couldn''t she just hold on..." murmured someone in the crowd.


    Around her, people wore faces of grief and regret. Firefighters rubbed at their reddened eyes, visibly shaken.


    And yet, the school officials'' whispers carried an insensitive tone entirely.


    Cade immediately ordered damage control. "Make sure this doesn''t leak beyond campus," he instructed curtly.


    Among the onlookers, some students stood frozen, the trauma of witnessing such a scene evident on their faces. A few staff members muttered about arranging psychological counseling.


    But for all the outward gestures of concern, not a single person truly cared about Briony.


    Ophelia''s gaze lifted. Her bloodshot eyes, burning with fury, now glinted with a malevolent edge, as though she were a demon emerging straight from hell.


    The oppressive energy around her silenced those nearby.


    Without a word, she pushed through the crowd, descending the stairs one step at a time, her movements heavy with purpose.


    For the sake of appearances, the school had called an ambnce. Briony''s body was hastily ced on a stretcher, handled with the kind of detachment one might reserve for an object rather than a person.


    Ophelia stood motionless, watching the ambnce disappear down the road. Under her breath, she murmured a name, her voice low and cold. "Zackary..."


    Her lips curled, and she repeated his name, enunciating each syble with venom.


    Without hesitation, she pulled out her phone. In a matter of minutes, she uploaded a damning video of Zackary with Hendrick and the muscle-bound man from the other day.


    Along with it, she included evidence provided by Lesly, proof of Zackary''s misdeeds.


    She should''ve done this long ago.


    ''Why did I wait until now?'' Ophelia thought bitterly.


    If she''d acted sooner, just maybe today''s tragedy wouldn''t have happened.


    Half an hourter, the university forum exploded.


    The administration tried frantically to contain the situation, but Ophelia had already taken precautions. The posts were impossible to delete.


    In no time, Zackary''s true colors were fully exposed online.


    All of Zackary''s carefully cultivated lies and his carefully polished image came crashing down in an instant.


    "Holy crap, Mr. Gross is seriously twisted!"


    "Twisted doesn''t even begin to cover it. Who''d have thought he was that kind of guy? Using graduation as leverage to threaten female students? Absolute scum!"


    "So that whole thing about him smearing Professor Spencer was fake too, huh?"


    "Obviously! Professor Spencer is talented and gorgeous like she''d ever need to tter a creep like him. What a joke."


    "Then Briony must''ve been one of his victims too..."


    "Poor Briony. She didn''t deserve this."


    News soon arrived from the hospital. Briony had sumbed to her injuries and passed away.


    The announcement sent ripples through the campus. Students began spontaneouslyying white flowers at the site where Briony had fallen, a quiet, collective expression of grief. In just a single morning, the situation spiraledpletely out of control.

 Jilted Bride 253

    With Carly and Lesly leading the way, Ophelia found her way to Briony''s dorm room.


    The buzz of gossip in the hallway instantly fell silent as soon as Ophelia appeared.


    It wasn''t hard to see why. Ophelia carried an aura of cold intensity that made everyone feel like the air had grown thinner.


    The moment she stepped into the dorm, Ophelia could immediately tell which bed was Briony''s.


    It was the first one on the left near the restroom, marked by a faded blue id sheet and a thin, neatly folded nket. The desk above it held nothing but a few basic toiletries.


    In stark contrast to the other three beds in the room, Briony''s was so clean and sparse it looked as though no one lived there.


    Even if Briony had prepared for her death, she still hadn''t wanted to inconvenience others.


    Ophelia opened Briony''s locker. Aside from two sets of equally faded clothes, there was nothing inside.


    She seemed to be searching for something.


    The other two roommates, unaware of the situation, tried to step forward but were quickly stopped by Carly and Lesly. A quiet exnation from them was enough to ensure no one interrupted. "Professor Spencer, what are you looking for? Let me help you," Lesly offered, eager to assist.


    Ophelia shook her head. She lifted her gaze toward the bed.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ophelia reached out, running her hand over the mattress. It felt hard, with only the thin sheet separating it from the bed frame. But under the mattress, she could feel something hidden.


    Pulling back the sheet, Ophelia uncovered a meticulously ced design draft, ¨¤ drawing almost 3 feet long,posed of dozens of A4 sheets taped together.


    She picked it up carefully. Every line was hand-drawn, the paper slightly yellowed with age. It depicted ayout of schools, homes, and other structures.


    Briony''s handwriting was elegant, just like herself, calm and graceful, like a breeze through the mountains.


    Ophelia''s thoughts drifted back to a memory of the girl with the missing fingers. That child had always held a small stick between her thumb and ring finger, sketching smooth, flowing lines on Gloomhaven''s sandy shores, skyscrapers, houses, schools... "Ophelia, when I grow up, I want to be an architect. I want to build houses and schools in Gloomhaven so that everyone has a ce to live and a chance to learn..." Briony smiled.


    Her innocent voice echoed in Ophelia''s ears as if it were only yesterday.


    "I''ll make it happen for you," Ophelia murmured.


    Her suppressed tears fell onto the aged paper.


    Ophelia carefully rolled up the draft and, with onest look around, left the dorm room.


    *****


    Elsewhere, Zackary stared in shock at the evidence circting online, apanied by an unblurred, high-definition video.


    <


    09.3


    OV 28


    He felt like he''d been thrown into an ice pit.


    The n he''d thought was foolproof had been exposed.


    Work


    that vile, humiliating video was now public. At this point Zackary could only pray the school would protect him.


    As that thought crossed his mind, the sound of shattering ss echoed through his office.


    Someone had smashed the window, and a handful of sharp stones hit Zackary squarely on the head and body.


    Blood immediately began to stream down his face.


    "Who is it? Who the hell did this?" Zackary shouted. His car had already been vandalized by groups of students earlier, and now even his office wasn''t spared.


    Though furious, Zackary didn''t dare approach the broken window.


    He knew that with the situation spiraling out of control, the school wouldn''t want to escte matters further. Zackary''s only option now was to tie his fate to theirs, to share in both their fortunes and their disgrace.


    Ducking and weaving, Zackary made his way to Cade''s office.


    Cade was sitting there, his head in his hands, visibly frustrated.


    The school administration had already received calls from the board members.


    The incident had begun to spread beyond the campus, and if it continued, it would affect the school''s investors.


    A group of faculty members was gathered in the office, brainstorming solutions.


    Many of them cast Zackary looks of disdain and contempt as he walked in.


    "Mr. Baxter, I-I let myself be blinded by my impulses. I know I was wrong. I''ll never do anything like this again. Please, for the sake of my years of service, even if I haven''t contributed much, I''ve at least worked hard. Please help me out here." Zackary pleaded. Cade frowned deeply and let out a long sigh. "For now, it''s best if you stay out of sight. Take a couple of days off at home and don''t show up on campus," Cade finally said.


    The students were furious with Zackary, so much so that they''d probably parade him through the streets, pelting him with rotten vegetables and eggs if given the chance. As long as Zackary stayed out of sight, the situation could still be contained.


    "Alright, I trust the school." Zackary nodded hastily, understanding that the school was willing to cover for him.


    Taking the cue, he didn''t press his luck. Wrapping himself up tightly, he sneaked out through the school''s less-crowded west gate.


    With his car wrecked, Zackary had no choice but to wait by the roadside for a cab.


    Just then, a ck business car screeched to a halt beside him.


    Before it had even stoppedpletely, two burly men in ck suits jumped out.


    "W-who are you... Help..." Zackary''s plea was cut short by a heavy blow to his head. He felt a rough bup sack thrown over him as they stuffed him into the car.


    Time blurred as the wind howled past his ears. When Zackary finally came to, he found himself sprawled on cold concrete,


    09:32


    His mouth was sealed with duct tape, muffling his cries.


    Footsteps approached, growing louder and closer. Zackary, still blindfolded, couldn''t see a thing.


    Suddenly, the sack over his head was yanked off. Harsh white light assaulted his eyes, making him squint in pain.


    When his vision adjusted, he realized he was on the rooftop of an unfinished high-rise.


    Dark clouds loomed overhead, casting a heavy, oppressive shadow.


    Standing before him, Ophelia gripped a gun, its barrel cold and ck, aimed directly at him.


    Zackary''s eyes widened in terror, the whites taking over as his pupils shrank to pinpricks. He shook his head frantically, his face twisted in panic as he stared at Ophelia, who now looked every bit the demon. "Zackary," Ophelia said, her voice cold and deliberate. "Remember that today is the anniversary of your death.


    "But letting you die so easily would be too merciful." As she finished speaking, Ray walked over with a bungee cord, methodically binding Zackary''s legs together.


    Zackary had no idea what they were nning.


    He could only lie there helplessly, like meat on a chopping block, awaiting his fate.


    Struggling proved useless. No one woulde to his aid.


    He tried writhing, but a heavy boot pressed against his head, pinning him in ce.


    "You''re too noisy," Eric muttered, a lollipop hanging from his lips. His pristine white sneakers ground against Zackary''s face. "Shh... Stay quiet. You''ll have plenty of chances to scream in a minute."


    Zackary turned pale as sweat poured from his forehead, soaking his light blue shirt.


    Ray secured the cord to a nearby concrete pir. "All set."


    Eric lifted his foot and grabbed Zackary by the cor, hauling him to his feet.


    From this rooftop, dozens of stories high, the view down revealed nothing but jagged rebar and solid concrete below.


    "Let''s have some fun," Eric said with a mischievous grin.


    He kicked Zackary hard in the lower back, yanking off the duct tape over his mouth at the same time. "Off you go!" "Ah!" Zackary''s scream grew fainter as he plunged downward.


    The bungee cord snapped back, sending him bouncing upward, only to plummet again. It was like a twisted version of bungee jumping.


    Each time the cord recoiled, Zackary''s body smashed against the concrete pir, leaving him battered and bloodied. Dangling midair, his head oozed blood that dripped down, mixing with a yellowish liquid seeping from his clothes. "Wanna go again?" Eric asked, his tone yful and taunting.


    "N-no... No... Zackary shook his head violently, his body reeking of fear and urine.


    Then how about writing something?" Eric suggested with a sly smile.

 Jilted Bride 254

    Ray pulled a dagger from his waist and swiftly cut through the rope. Zackary dropped heavily to the ground, kicking up a cloud of dust.


    By evening, alongside the breaking news about the Denex University department head''s assault on female students, another headline emerged, a failed suicide attempt, with the perpetrator leaving behind a confession note. This immediately confirmed Zackary''s past actions. His not¨¦ detailed each female student he had victimized and described the methods he used to coerce and threaten them.


    The inte exploded with outrage,


    [Monster! Scumbag! How did he even survive? People like him deserve to be tortured to death.]


    [Just cripple him already.]


    [He must face the harshest punishment.]


    [Even if he didn''t die, thew will take care of him.]


    [Waiting for the official verdict. I won''t be satisfied until justice is served!]


    The incident caused a massive public uproar.


    The university quickly distanced itself, while one victim after another came forward, sharing their stories under their real names. Evidence surfaced continuously, and the policeunched an immediate investigation. That night, after arranging Briony''s funeral at the mortuary, Ophelia saw the news of Zackary''s arrest at the hospital.


    The video showed victims and their families swarming to beat him, almost like a public parade of retribution.


    The police ensured the suspect''s safety but didn''t stop the crowd from venting their anger.


    The case progressed even faster than Ophelia had anticipated.


    "Briony, is this what you to see?" Ophelia whispered, holding up her phone in front of Briony''s photo.


    Before Ophelia''s time travel, Briony''s death hadn''t brought justice to anyone.


    But in this life, things unfolded as Briony had hoped.


    Her death not only punished this man but also helped protect countless other girls.


    Briony could finally rest in peace.


    Still, Ophelia couldn''t help but think, "There had to have been a less extreme way...


    Her eyes reddened again as she gazed at Briony''s beautiful face in the photo, her mind filled with the memory of the final smile Briony had left behind.


    Ophelia looked at that blueprint, realizing that the Gloomhaven development project was no longer just her battle to fight.


    *****


    When Ophelia returned to Rosewood Manor, Keh wasn''t home yet.


    Chapter 254-


    She took a shower and copsed onto the bed, slipping into a fitful sleep.


    If I sleep, I won''t have to think so much. Once I wake up, it''ll all pass... Ophelia thought to herself.


    But in the early hours, she jolted awake from a nightmare, sitting up straight in bed, her forehead and back drenched in sweat.


    Outside the window, the sky was hazy, and a light rain fell. Mist clung to the mountainside, wrapping everything in a ghostly


    veil.


    The warm, yellow glow of her bedroommp was still on. She stared nkly at her palms, unable to shake the haunting image of Briony''s fall.


    "Thank you, Ophelia, for being there with me in my final moments," Briony had said.


    Bang!


    The sight of blood spreading beneath the hem of her white dress, the pallor of her face, and that faint, final smile...


    Ophelia had almost grabbed hold of her.


    She could still feel the fading sensation of Briony''s fingers slipping through her own.


    If only Ophelia had exposed Zackary''s crimes earlier, maybe none of this would''ve happened.


    Hugging her knees, she shut her eyes, her chest tightening with grief.


    After a long while, she finally calmed down. Turning to the space beside her, she realized it was still empty.


    ''Where''s Keh? Hasn''t hee back yet?'' Ophelia wondered.


    They hadn''t returned home together that evening. Ophelia had taken a quick shower and gone straight to bed, but she could''ve sworn she felt his warmth behind her, felt him holding her. ''Did I imagine it?'' she thought. She got out of bed, wearing a long cardigan over a ck silk slip dress. Quietly, she left the room and noticed a faint light seeping through the gap in the study door.


    Approaching, she turned the doorknob and peeked inside.


    Sure enough, Keh was there, seated in front of hisptop, deeply engrossed in work.


    Ophelia stepped into the room, ncing at the clock on the wall.


    It was already two in the morning.


    "When did you get back? Why aren''t you in bed?" she asked.


    Hearing her voice, Keh finally looked up. He''d been so absorbed in his work that he hadn''t noticed her.


    Ophelia walked closer and caught sight of theptop screen. It was filled with documents, ones she was supposed to handle today.


    Keh had been helping her.


    "Why are you awake?" Keh asked instead of answering, pulling her into his arms.


    He tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, his fingertips gently brushing against her pale cheek. "Did you have a nightmare?"


    09:32


    "Yes," Ophelia admitted softly,


    77%1


    "I heard about what happened today," Keh said, his rich, cell-like voice carrying a soothing warmth. "Don''t me yourself. Maybe, for Briony, this was a release. You gave her final moment''s warmth and dignity." His words, like a tranquilizer, seeped into her heart, easing the turmoil she''d felt.


    "If you''re still dwelling on it," Keh continued, "I could help take your mind off things."


    "Huh?" Ophelia looked up, mecting his gaze, and caught a spark of mischief in his eyes. "No," she said quickly, shaking her head. "It''ste."


    "You''re probably not falling back asleep, are you?" he teased, his tone holding a hint of something more.


    Keh always had his ways of making her forget the world.


    0000 0000 0000000


    He leaned in closer, resting his forehead against hers. His deep-set eyes locked on her lips, inching closer with deliberate intent.


    Ophelia instinctively leaned back slightly, creating some space. The movement made his Adam''s apple bob, and a low chuckle rumbled from his chest, sending a tingling warmth through her.


    "Stop it," she protested, cing her hands on his shoulders. Her damp eyes, wide and glistening, fixed on him


    She had no idea how irresistible her gaze was at that moment.


    Ophelia made a move to get up from hisp, but Keh''s strong arm was already wrapped around her waist, holding her firmly in ce.


    The sleeves of his white shirt were rolled up to his forearms, revealing the lean muscles of his arms as he effortlessly lifted her and set her down on the desk.


    A scattering of kisses followed, light and unhurried.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    "Don''t," she murmured. "It''ste, and you''ve been working so hard. You need to rest."


    Keh saw her genuine exhaustion and, in a rare disy of restraint, decided to let her off the hook.

 Jilted Bride 255

    Until dawn, with the sound of rain outside, Opheliay on the soft bed, drifting into a deep sleep.


    With Keh holding her, she slept soundly, not waking up until the afternoon, when the rain finally stopped.


    Keh was still beside her, gazing at her with tender eyes.


    "I''ve taken care of everything. How about we go on a vacation today?" Keh''s voice was low, tinged with a bit of raspiness.


    "Okay. How long are we going for?" Ophelia turned over and found herself pressed against Keh''s chest.


    Ophelia instinctively wrapped her arms around Keh''s waist and buried her head in his embrace.


    "About a week," Keh replied.


    Ophelia did the math in her head. "That works perfectly. We''ll be back just in time for June 1st, and then we can go straight to get our marriage license."


    And it would soon be their one-year anniversary together.


    "Get up. Pack your things," Keh said, gently tapping her shoulder.


    Ophelia, like a little cat, snuggled closer to him.


    Then she stretched and, feeling a little sore, sat up on the bed.


    Keh''s hand gently moved to her lower back, massaging it for a moment to ease her difort.


    "I''ve made arrangements with yourpany. I had Mark assign a couple of people to help out, so you don''t have to worry. Just rx," Keh reassured her.


    He had already taken care of everything that she was concerned about.


    Perhaps because of the events from the day before, Keh wanted to take her away for a little break to clear their minds.


    The rain outside gradually let up, and the clusters of pink roses, dotted with raindrops, shimmered in the warm sunlight.


    Scattered petals, knocked off by the rain,y along the path, creating a beautiful scene.


    The itinerary for the ind was quickly arranged.


    They caught a flight the next afternoon, which took about four or five hours.


    By the time theynded, it was just dusk.


    The sun, sinking slowly toward the horizon, painted half the sky in a fiery red.


    This time of year, many people were vacationing, and the ind resort they were staying at had just opened, still in its softunch phase, yet there were already plenty of visitors. Compared to the busy resort hotels by the beach, Keh had chosen a much more secluded ce to stay.


    The architecture was reminiscent of Rosewood Manor''s semi-detached vis, but more urately, it resembled the ce Keh lived in Mgia.


    There was an enormous mountain-view swimming pool, offering a panoramic view of the entire resort area and the deep


    blue ocean.


    <


    20


    C


    The temperature here was warmer than in Denex, and it didn feel cold even in the evening, as the sea breeze made the atmosphere cozy and pleasant There was a swing on the balcony outside.


    After they unpacked, the sky gradually darkened.


    The surrounding lights came on one by one, more beautiful than the stars, like a gxy spilling down to their feet.


    Ophelia, wearing afortable white dress, rested her hands on the ss railing and gazed at the view below.


    The evening breeze blew through her long hair, which cascaded like seaweed, and her delicate face appeared vibrant and radiant.


    Click!Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ophelia heard the sound of a camera. Turning her head, the sea breeze lifted her loose strands of hair, and her innocent, captivating eyes met Keh''s, just as she noticed the phone in his hand. Click!


    He took another shot.


    Keh nodded in satisfaction.


    "What are you doing?" Ophelia asked softly, walking over to peek at the photos on his phone.


    "I heard that when regr couples go out, the guy usually takes pictures of the girl. Come sit on the swing, and I''ll take a few more pictures of you."


    Ophelia, feeling much more rxed on the trip, obediently sat on the swing as Keh had suggested.


    Her graceful legs swayed back and forth in the

 Jilted Bride 256

    The next day, their trip officially began.


    Along with them were Ray and Eric.


    Members of the Death Guild blended in with the tourists to ensure the safety of the two.


    They were nning to visit the entire seaside resort area for a tour and inspection.


    Ophelia wore a white Polo skirt, paired with a white sunhat. Her high ponytail poked out from behind the hat''s adjustment strap, giving her a lively look.


    Half of her cute, delicate face was hidden behind oversized sunsses, and she had a lollipop in her mouth, adding a yful charm to her appearance. It was a rare style for her.


    Beside her, Keh, who had seldom been out of his formal attire, wore a ck Polo shirt and shorts, matching Ophelia''s outfit. He still had on a ck baseball cap.


    The breeze by the seaside was refreshing, but the sunlight was intense. The two of them sat in the shaded sightseeing vehicle, with Charles, the head of the resort, seated in front of them.


    He turned around and introduced the area to them. "This is the golf course, next to the racecourse. There''s a small bar beside the racecourse.


    "Behind the hotel, there are two cultural streets selling various trinkets and souvenirs, and another street filled with food stalls that''s really lively in the evenings."


    Charles spoke, his attention focused on Ophelia.


    Most girls would probably be interested in these things.


    However, Ophelia showed no reaction, nor did she express any desire to visit any of them.


    Under her sunsses, Ophelia''s clear eyes were focused on the surrounding constructions and facilities.


    Along the way, it seemed like the only thing she''d seen was a public restroom.


    The sightseeing vehicle continued forward. "This is an indoor venue with facilities like darts, board games,


    The resort area wasrge, and afterpleting the inspection, Ophelia noticed a few issues.


    Her delicate brow furrowed slightly, and Keh immediately noticed her change in mood. "What''s wrong?" Keh asked.


    Hearing Keh''s voice, Charles quickly turned around, waiting for Keh''s orders.


    and racing..."


    Everything had been built ording to the original blueprint, constructed step by step over the past year, with Charles overseeing the entire process. Charles desperately tried to remember, fearing something had gone wrong. Ophelia took off her sunsses and thezy vibe she''d been giving off disappeared, reced by her usual businesslike demeanor.


    Her tone became professional. "First, the waste segregation isn''t done properly. The trash bins are too far apart. Second, there aren''t enough public restrooms.


    "On the way here, near the acaside area, there was almost no one is frome of the meat were lining up in front of the women''s restroom


    "Even though this is still in the trial phase, this is already happering When the


    might be inadequate


    Also, because men and women have different physiological needs, women generally take longer. You should consider increasing the number of stalls in the women''s restrooms"


    After Ophelia finished speaking. Charles was momentarily stunned


    He was about to exin, but before he could, Keh opened abottle of water and handed it to Ophelia "Drink some


    water.


    Keh''s voice was gentle, and his thoughtful action left Charlespletely bewildered


    Is this really the Mr. Sinir I met a year ago? How har he be so gentle? This is unbelievable, Charles tough


    Ophelia took the bottle, took a small sip, and continued. Also, there''s no need to set up a ticket booth at the venue. Hotel guests can ess it with their room cards, and the racecourse and golf course should be the same. "When I looked earlier, the room rates were already quite high, and if there are additional charges for these things, it''s


    unreasonable.


    Charles nced at Keh.


    Keh sighed, his eyes full of affection.


    Keh''s original intention had been to bring Ophelia here to rx, but Ophelia had be fully immersed in her work


    Keh lifted his eyelids, tilted his head slightly, and with a small flick of his eyes under the cap''s brim, he looked at Charles. "Did you hear that? Do you want me to repeat it?"


    Under the weight of Keh''s gaze, Charles felt a chill run down his spine, the all-too-familiar sensation returnin


    "I... I heard it. Charles stammered.


    Charles quickly agreed, and that afternoon, he immediately began expanding the women''s restrooms, adding more trash bins and public restrooms, as well as revising the business model ording to Ophelia''s suggestions. Charles never expected that after spending a year on the ind, so much would have changed outside.


    When Charles first met Keh, he had been dealing with an ipetent senior executive in the Sinir Group.


    Keh''s methods had been ruthless, his actions unpredictable, and his eyes cold with no warmth. The oppressive aura surrounding him was so intimidating that just standing before him made one feel a silent, invisible pressure as if it came from hell itself. Charles never expected that, in just over a year, when he met Keh again, he would have changed so much.


    Charles couldn''t believe that Keh could be so gentle.


    After lunch, Ophelia had nned to take a look at the resort hotel''s interior, but Keh stopped her.


    Keh squinted at her. "Ophelia, let''s take a break.


    Keh wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her into his embrace, half leaning against the small bar counter. "We''re here to rx, not to inspect the ce. Even if we''re reviewing things, the experience matters


    most


    Ophelia was held in his arms, and instinctively, she wrapped her arms around Keh''s neck. "This is my first vacation, and I don''t know what I should do."


    "Go to the beach?" Keh suggested.


    "Sure," Ophelia replied.


    However, not long after Keh said that, he regretted it.


    He looked at Ophelia, who was wearing a white bikini, her skin smooth and delicate. Her high ponytail was styled into a bun, making her look even more yful than in the morning.


    "Forget it. The beach is too sunny." Keh''s brows furrowed deeply. ''Who bought her that bikini?'' he wondered. Jealousy surged inside him, and the more he thought about it, the angrier he became, a weight pressing on his chest. "If you want to swim, you can swim in the pool and see how the water quality is," Keh said.


    Keh''s attitude shifted quickly, and his tone became matter-of-fact and professional, leaving no room for objection.


    Ophelia chuckled.


    She understood him.


    He had a strong sense of possessiveness.


    This was the first time Ophelia had worn something like this. She hadn''t expected Lisa to bring her such a sexy swimsuit.


    Ophelia only had the courage to wear it for Keh and didn''t dare wear it in public.


    In truth, she was afraid of the sea. After all, when she had traveled through time, she had spent three days in the sea before her death, and in the end, Keh had carried her into the sea.


    So Ophelia had a deep fear of the ocean.


    The entire afternoon, she stayed in the pool, swimming like a mermaid, asionally practicing holding her breath. "Why don''t youe in?" Ophelia leaned over the edge of the pool, looking at Keh, who was sitting on a chair. She truly felt the ease andfort of vacationing.


    Keh tilted his head slightly, running his fingers over the ring on his ring finger, turning it once. "I''m wearing a ring. What if I lose it?"


    Ophelia rolled her eyes. "Then why don''t you just take it off?'' she thought.


    Ophelia swam twops before getting out of the pool.


    Water droplets slid off her body as she picked up the juice from the table, and took a big sip through the straw.


    "What''s wrong? Are you too hot?" Keh asked. The weather was so hot here, and Ophelia had been swimming for a while. Right now, she just wanted something cold.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    "I want some ice water." Ophelia was feeling really hot.


    "Okay. But don''t drink too much. I remember your period ising soon." Keh took a towel from the side and wrapped it around Ophelia, gently wiping the water from her body.

 Jilted Bride 257

    Ophelia could only nod in resignation, feeling slightly wronged.


    The droplets of water on her chin rested against her delicate chest, and her lips, which had just been sipping the fruit juice, moved slightly. Due to the heat, a faint flush appeared on Ophelia''s cheeks.


    Her long eyshes were still damp, and her big eyes blinked repeatedly.


    Ophelia had no idea just how much she was captivating Keh at this moment.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    As Ophelia swallowed the juice, Keh''s Adam''s apple bobbed up and down.


    "Was it good?" Keh''s voice was deep and maic.


    Ophelia had just finished thest sip, and in hindsight, she wished she had saved some for Keh.


    She had just lifted her head when the juice in her mouth hadn''t fully gone down yet, and Keh''s lips suddenly found


    hers.


    Keh''s crisp breath lingered at the tip of her nose.


    The sweet taste of the juice in her mouth was gradually stolen by Keh, leaving only his scent behind.


    Ophelia''s bikini was easy to take off.


    With just a flick of his fingers, the fabric came off effortlessly.


    "Keh..." she murmured.


    Ophelia''s cheeks flushed even deeper as she gripped the towel around her tightly, ncing nervously left and right.


    "Huh? What are you calling me for?" Keh smirked, showing a few teeth. His grin was both wicked and yful, sending a jolt through her chest.


    Her breath and heartbeat were in chaos.


    "I''m going to take a shower," Ophelia said, hurrying toward the bathroom.


    Keh watched her panicked figure with a smile that reached his eyes.


    But suddenly, that figure became blurry. His vision started to swirl, fading in and out.


    The smile on his face froze, and he pressed his hand against his forehead, squeezing his eyes shut.


    Half a minute...


    One minute...


    His vision remained dark, and the moments stretched on, the darkness lingering longer.


    "Kennie. Help me grab an outfit from the suitca


    Ophelia called.


    Hearing her voice, Keh squeezed his eyes shut once more.


    His vision gradually returned, but it was still extremely blurry like he was severely nearsighted.


    "Kennie..." Ophelia, wrapped in her towel, poked her head out.


    Keh turried and walked toward the bedroom. "You haven''t told me which one to grab yet? "Just bring whichever one you like best," Ophelia quickly added before retreating back inside.


    A few minutester, Ophelia emerged from the bathroom, wearing a vintage green dress.


    "Do you like this dress on me?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh had always thought she liked green because of this dress.


    45


    Ophelia''s skin looked even more delicate, and although she had gained a little weight, the dress entuated her curves. Her back, now even more enticing, was fuller and more captivating, making it impossible for anyone to look away. Keh''s vision was still blurry, and even though Ophelia had walked right up to him, he couldn''t make out the details.


    "Yes," Keh said, "There''s going to be a bonfire and fireworkster, would you like to go?


    Ophelia nodded eagerly.


    Her smile grew wider, spreading across her face.


    Keh''s thumb gently traced her smiling cheek, and an unreadable emotion shed in his eyes.


    As night fell, the faint orange glow on the horizon slowly faded, and the deep blue sky was dotted with stars.


    A bonfire was set up on the beach, surrounded by strangers who hade to visit the area.


    Tourists in groups, chatting andughing, filled the beach with energy.


    Ophelia knew Keh didn''t enjoy crowds, so they kept a little distance from the others.


    Keh, at some point, had put on a pair of gold-rimmed sses, which softened the sharp, alluring look of his eyes, now hidden behind the lenses.


    "Since when did you start wearing sses?" Ophelia asked.


    "Yes, my vision''s not great at night," Keh replied casually, and Ophelia didn''t ask any further.


    Only by seeing Ophelia clearly in front of him did his heart finally begin to settle.


    Suddenly, an off-key voice interrupted the two.


    "N! Can you tell me why you''re leaving me?" The boy''s voice was hoarse and trembling.


    The girl roared. "Why am I leaving you? Don''t you already know? Just look at yourself. It''s been two years since graduation, and you''re still going nowhere.


    "You''re earning just a few thousand dors a month, still dreaming of buying a house, still hoping to marry me? I''m a girl. My youth is precious.


    "I don''t want to live in a basement with you. Is that wrong?"


    N''s tone was resolute as she clung to the tall, muscr man beside her. She continued, "My new boyfriend can take me to this kind of ind for vacation and buy me things you can''t even afford in a few months. 2/4


    "Of course, I''m going with hun, not you. Now, just leave. The hotels here are too expensive for you to afford."


    N finished with a mocking sneer, and the tall, handsome boy in front of her instantly lost all the light in his eyes.


    His face flushed with shame as he lowered his head in humiliation.


    "Did you... ever love me?" The boy asked, as though all his energy had been drained just to get those words out.


    N sneered. "Love? Can love feed me?"


    After a long pause, the boy nodded.


    81%


    "I''m sorry. I didn''t give you what you wanted. I won''t bother you anymore." His eyes, reddened by the distant bonfire, turned away, and he walked off without looking back. Ophelia looked away. As an observer, she couldn''t judge the situation.


    Everyone had their own choices to make.


    However, Keh, who usually wasn''t interested in such things, hadn''t averted his gaze. His eyes behind the lenses narrowed slightly, and his brows furrowed in deep thought. When he had gone to grab his sses earlier, he had overheard a conversation between a man and a woman.


    The boy had said, "N, do you really want to do this?"


    Perhaps because of the name, Keh had stayed and listened.


    "N, you''re hurting not just him, but yourself. Aren''t you going to tell him about your illness? Maybe he''d be willing to face it with you..."


    "I know he''d be willing to face it with me," N said, looking exhausted. "But I''m not willing. I''d rather have him hate me than let him face this with me.


    "Terminal cancer can''t be cured. I''m begging you. Just help me put on this act.


    "He deserves a better woman who can love him. I''m not the one who can go through this life with him. Let him suffer less in the long run. It doesn''t matter. I''m going to die anyway..." And that was why the scene earlier had unfolded.


    Soon, fireworks shot into the night sky, one after another. Keh returned to the moment, his gaze turning to Ophelia beside him.


    The light from the fireworks reflected in her pupils, and as she turned to look at him, the sea breeze lifted one side of her hair, with stray locks falling across her brow. "Kennie, look at that!" Ophelia eximed.


    Keh pulled Ophelia closer, wrapping his arm around her shoulders and kissing her lips without hesitation.


    This kiss felt different from the others. It was filled with a strong sense of possessiveness.

 Jilted Bride 258

    The brilliant fireworks exploded in the sky.


    Ophelia was kissed so deeply she could barely catch her breath, her lips and tongue numb from Keh''s relentless kiss.


    She thought that Keh, with his sses on, was even harder to resist.


    The fireworks were over, and she hadn''t seen a single one.


    Ophelia cupped Keh''s face with both hands, leaning back, forcing him away from her, and slowly began to calm her breath.


    When she looked up, her gaze collided with the deep crimson of Keh''s eyes.


    "What''s wrong?" Ophelia asked.


    ''We didn''t make love earlier this afternoon, and now he''s so desperate to devour me?'' Ophelia thought to herself.


    "I want you," Keh said openly, without any hesitation.


    Ophelia, already struggling to control herself after his kiss, found his blunt words even more tempting. She couldn''t help but feel weak at the sound of them.


    And that handsome face, so close to hers, made her even more captivated.


    "Didn''t Charles say there''s a cultural street behind the resort? How about we go check it out?" Ophelia quickly changed the subject.


    It wasn''t even nine o''clock yet, and if Keh had his way now, she knew her back would be sore for days.


    She knew just how persistent he could be.


    Keh pushed his gold-rimmed sses up his nose, the desire in his eyes gradually fading, his deep gaze now like a bottomless well. "Alright, Babe." Keh nodded.


    Seeing the rise and fall of his chest, Ophelia couldn''t help butugh.


    Keh had already sighed in helplessness more than once today.


    At this time, the cultural street was bustling with activity.


    The shops lining the street were brightly lit, selling everything from artwork to various clothes and foods. People were everywhere, creating a lively atmosphere.


    In the small square where several streets converged, there was even a magic show.


    Ophelia held a coconut juice in her hand, looking around with curiosity.


    "Kennie, can you hold this for me?" she asked, handing the drink to Keh as they stopped in front of a shop selling


    scarves.


    She was wearing a dark green long dress and had casually picked up a white and teal scarf, draping it over her shoulder. The scarf''s soft material subtly revealed Ophelia''s shoulder and back.


    III


    C


    "Does it look good?" Ophelia turned to ask.


    By coincidence, she met Keh''s phone camera lens.


    "It looks good," Keh answered without hesitation. In his eyes Ophelia would always be beautiful, no matter what.


    "I meant the scarf." Ophelia rified.


    "It doesn''tpare to how beautiful you are," Keh replied.


    ''So he must think the scarf doesn''t look good then?'' Ophelia wondered.


    Just as Ophelia was about to put the scarf down, the store owner a woman in her fifties or sixties, walked out.


    "Miss, you have excellent taste. This scarf suits you very well," the woman said, picking up a dark red hairband from the side.


    "For every scarf purchased, I''ll throw in a hairband. Single women can use it to attract love..." She nced at the man standing next to Ophelia.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    She continued, "For those with boyfriends, you can have your boyfriend tie it on you.


    "It symbolizes that, in the future, you''ll always be together, longing for each other, day and night. Even when you grow old, your partner will still be there, by your side." Ophelia looked at Keh.


    The sentiment behind those words was quite beautiful.


    "Heartstrings touched, a first nce," the woman added.


    Keh ced the coconut juice aside and took the red ribbon from the woman, tying it in Ophelia''s long hair with careful precision.


    Ophelia''s silky hair didn''t cooperate easily, and Keh fumbled for a long time before finally managing to tie it on, though it was a bit awkward. Still,ing from Keh''s hands, it looked exquisite.


    "I''ll take it," Keh said, and immediately, his bodyguard stepped forward to pay.


    ''I really want to be with you for the rest of my life,'' Keh thought.


    Ophelia really liked the hairband too. With the scarf draped over her shoulder, she felt like an elegant beauty.


    Her hair was tied back with a red hairband, looking like an angel who had fallen to earth.


    After walking for a while, Ophelia''s beautiful eyes fixed on a figurine shop. She bounced excitedly toward it, with Keh trailing closely behind her.


    "These two can be brought back for Chloe and Wyatt," Ophelia said, picking out two very cute figurines, onerge and one small. The woman was holding a cute little dinosaur baby, resembling Chloe and Wyatt, She nced over the entire shelf and was surprised to find a figurine of Rex.


    It was a bit cartoonish, but the eyes were so well sculpted that it was instantly recognizable as Rex.


    She cheered. "This one can be for Mara. She''s a big fan of Rex. I could also get one for Rex. And here''s one for Sharon and Thomas... Look! They even made a couple''s version..."


    Ophelia nned to take them all back as gifts.


    Muttering to herself, she picked out several figurines, each unique in its own way.


    Keh watched Ophelia in front of him. When had she be so open in expressing herself?


    Ophelia cared about everyone around her.


    She was no longer the calm,posed person who kept everything buried deep inside.


    She had started to show the lively, youthful energy one would expect at her age.


    Ophelia paid for the figurines and even asked the shop owner for contact details.


    She handed the packed souvenirs to the bodyguard behind them and hooked her arm through Keh''s, continuing to stroll forward.


    Click!


    81%


    Ophelia heard a noise and turned her head just in time to see a person painted with clown makeup, smiling as they walked toward her, holding out a Proid camera.


    It was a photo of her and Keh, smiling at each other, with her arm around his.


    "Thank you," Ophelia said, holding the photo out to Keh with a happy expression.


    "This must be our first photo together,'' she thought.


    Keh gently held the corner of the photo, his eyes on Ophelia''s image.


    The smile that should''ve formed on his lips couldn''t quite make it.


    "Can you take another one for us?" Ophelia asked the clown.


    The clown nodded happily and took a few steps back.


    This time, Ophelia stood straight, her arm around Keh''s as they both faced the camera.


    Keh, however, was still staring at Ophelia, unable to look away.


    Click!


    The camera slowly ejected another photo. The clown waved cheerfully, then hopped away.


    Ophelia carefully stored the photo, treasuring it.


    Keh did the same with his.


    After finishing their stroll through the cultural street, Ophelia felt hungry.


    They had arrived at a street lined with all sorts of food stalls.


    The stalls were overflowing with various snacks, seafood, barbecue, cotton candy, and ice jelly, among others.


    "Have you ever had cotton candy?" Ophelia asked, ncing at Keh.


    Keh nodded. "I had it when I was a kid."


    His mother had bought it for him.


    Those were the happiest days of Keh''s childhood, with his mother around.


    81%


    B


    "I''ve never had it. Let''s get one," Ophelia said, eyeing the fluffy, cloud-like treat, wondering what it would taste like.


    "Okay," Keh said, paying for it.


    A huge, rainbow-colored cotton candy was handed to Ophelia.


    She took a big bite, but as soon as it touched her mouth, it dissolved, leaving nothing behind.


    Ophelia, still craving more, took anotherrge bite.


    The sweet taste melted instantly in her mouth.


    A puzzled expression crossed her face as she thought, ''So this is what cotton candy is like!


    "Ray, I want some cotton candy too," Eric said.

 Jilted Bride 259

    Eric watched Ophelia cat the cotton candy, his curiosity piqued


    Coming from Gloomhaven, Eric had never seen anything so beautiful.


    Ray nced at it too and, to be honest, he had never seen anything like it either.


    "Buy one and try it," Ray suggested, walking over to the stall to get one.


    He made a big effort, expecting it to have some weight given its size, but it was as light as a feather, just like a cloud.


    Ray leaned in to sniff it but couldn''t detect any smell.


    He turned and handed it to Eric. "Hey, try it."


    Eric shed a small tiger tooth, his deep eyes sparkling in the light, almost like a child who hadn''t grown up.


    "Ray, aren''t you going to eat some?" Eric asked.


    "This is for kids. I don''t eat this kind of stuff... I..." Ray began to say, but before he could finish, a clump of cotton candy was shoved into his mouth, with a few strands sticking to his beard.


    The overly sweet taste made Ray, who never ate sweets, feel ufortable.


    Kay furrowed his brow. "I told you I''m not eating. Go ahead and eat it."


    Only after Ray had tried it did Eric finally feelfortable eating.


    Eric loved sweets. As long as it was sweet, he liked it.


    Ray was about to remind him to eat less, but he saw that Eric was now holding just the stick.


    "You finished it that quickly?" Ray asked, surprised.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Ray, I could still eat a strawberry-vored one," Eric said.


    "No way! Are you going to lose your teeth?" Ray said, pping the back of Eric''s head. "There are other things to eat ahead."


    "Alright," Eric replied.


    The two of them walked behind Ophelia and Keh.


    This street, filled with many food stalls, offered ssic snacks from various regions.


    Whenever Ophelia showed interest in something. Keh would always buy it for her to try.


    Even when the smell of fermented herring from a tin can wafted through the air, Keh bought it with a frown.


    "Do you really want to eat this?" Keh asked, his brow furrowed in disgust.


    Ophelia picked up a piece and put it in her mouth. The crispy outer shell gave way to a rich, strange-tasting sauce that overwhelmed her taste buds. "It''s not bad. Want to try?" Ophelia offered, holding up a piece to Keh''s mouth.


    "No thanks," Keh said.


    BG


    Seeing the look of distaste ou his face, Ophelia suddenly felt yful.


    "Darling, kiss me," Ophelia said, standing on tiptoe, leaning toward him.


    The strange smell hit Keh''s face immediately.


    He chuckled softly, lifting Ophelia''s chin and leaning in to bite her soft, pink lips.


    His eyebrows raised slightly.


    ''She thinks I won''t?'' Keh thought.


    @81%


    Ophelia winced slightly, her brow furrowing in pain. She quickly moved aside, holding the tin of fermented herring and eating it by herself.


    ''I''m going to make my mouth taste like fermented herring. Let''s see if he dares to kiss me again after that,'' she wondered.


    After a while, Ophelia started feeling tired.


    But there were still two more streets she hadn''t explored.


    "We''lle back tomorrow," Keh said.


    He knew exactly what she was thinking.


    "Okay," she nodded lightly, ncing at the time. It was already past eleven, so it was time to head back.


    Ophelia packed a few snacks and took them back to the resort hotel.


    Once back at the hotel, the sweet taste of the fruit ice cream masked the lingering vor in her mouth.


    The moment Ophelia entered the room, she was pinned against the wall.


    Keh''s tall frame, imposing and strong, surrounded Ophelia, engulfing her in his presence.


    "Little one," Keh said, his voice low.


    "I-I have a stomach ache..." Ophelia''s face turned pale as she clutched her stomach and slipped past Keh, heading quickly for the bathroom. Keh sighed deeply, removing his sses and rubbing his temples.


    Even though the room lights were bright, his vision remained blurry. The doorbell rang.


    Keh put his sses back on and walked to the door.


    Standing at the door was a hotel service staff member. The waitress hadn''t expected Keh to open the door himself, and her eyes brightened.


    "Mr. Sinir, here are the clothes you and your wife asked for yesterday," she said, visibly taken aback by seeing him in person.


    She hadn''t expected to meet Keh, the owner of the whole ind, who looked even more handsome than he did on TV, Her heart raced. "Mr. Sinir, let me hang them for you," she offered.

 Jilted Bride 260

    Keh remained silent, and the waitress seized the opportunity to walk inside.


    She nced around the room but didn''t see Ophelia, so she curiously asked, "Is Mrs. Sinir not here?"


    Keh, with hismanding presence, still didn''t respond.


    The waitress, not daring to ask further, lowered her head and began tidying up.


    She considered herself one of the best-looking women in the hotel, but Keh hadn''t even spared her a second nce, which left her feeling disappointed.


    Once she finished organizing, she walked over to Keh. "Mr. Sinir, is there anything else you need? There are plenty ofte-night snacks avable. Would you like me to prepare some for you and Mrs. Sinir?" "No need." Keh''s voice was cold and piercing, even carrying a hint of irritation.


    The waitress dared not stay longer, offering a slight nod before retreating outside.


    *****


    A little over ten minutester, Ophelia had taken a quick shower in the bathroom, and when she stepped out, she found Keh standing on the balcony, hands resting on the ss railing. His tall figure was straight and imposing.


    Ophelia, dressed in a bathrobe, smelled faintly of fruit.


    Keh walked over, and Ophelia wrapped her arms around him from behind.


    "Have you been waiting long?" Ophelia asked.


    As her cheek touched his back, Keh turned around, giving her a brief, neutral nce.


    "Yes." Keh nodded.


    His mood was clearly not great.


    "What''s wrong? Not happy?" Ophelia nced at the time. It was already past midnight, and she had indeed taken too long in the bathroom.


    It was her fault.


    She had eaten and not considered Keh, who was waiting for her.


    Before Ophelia could even touch him, Keh swiftly moved away.


    "I''m tired," Keh said coldly.


    Ophelia followed him inside. "Then, um... should I help you with a shower?"


    "No need. You should go to bed," Keh replied.


    Normally, Keh wouldn''t have reacted this way at this hour.


    "Okay," Ophelia replied, confused, nodding,


    Perhaps Keh really was just too tired.


    -


    B


    81%


    Ophelia changed into her pajamas and climbed into bed. She nced at the work report on her phone before her eyelids grew heavier.


    She wasn''t sure how long she had slept, but she was suddenly awakened by a force gripping her waist so tightly that she couldn''t catch her breath. Ophelia slowly opened her eyes, and there she saw Keh, holding her tightly in his arms as if he was afraid someone might take her away. He held her fiercely.


    Ophelia couldn''t even move an inch.


    Turning her head, she saw Keh''s brow furrowed, beads of sweat forming on his forehead, his longshes trembling slightly, his breathing growing heavier. He wasn''t sleeping peacefully, ''Has he been having a nightmare?'' Ophelia wondered.


    "Kennie..." she whispered his name, trying to shift her body, but she couldn''t.


    As soon as Keh''s body wasid t again, he suddenly jolted awake.


    His eyes were cold and sharp, like ice, and his entire demeanor exuded hostility. Ophelia was genuinely frightened by Keh in this state.


    It seemed like he was ready to kill.


    "What''s wrong?" Ophelia asked, getting up to hold Keh''s arm and get closer.


    "I''m fine." Keh quickly pulled his hand away, his chest rising and falling sharply, his shirt unbuttoned to reveal part of a lettered tattoo on his chest.


    Keh got off the bed and went into the bathroom, sshing cold water on his face.


    The sky outside had already started to brighten, while the soft night light in the room kept the atmosphere dim.


    Keh came out of the bathroom and headed straight for the balcony with a cigarette in hand, the tip of the cigarette glowing and dimming as he smoked. Ophelia walked over and stood beside him.


    Her delicate hands rested on the back of Keh''s other hand.


    Keh took a long drag from his cigarette, his gaze still distant. He didn''t even dare to look at Ophelia


    "I''m fine. Go back to sleep," he said.


    "I''ll stay with you. I want to be with you," Ophelia said, wrapping her arms around his and resting her head on his shoulder.


    Keh put out the cigarette and gently stroked her hair.


    They stood on the balcony for a long time, until the horizon slowly turned golden with the rising sun.


    Thest time they had watched the sunrise together was in Gloomhaven.


    That night, Ophelia had been drinking.


    She had said, "Keh, I only have you. Keh, please never leave me."


    ''I''m sorry, little one. I might have to break my promise,'' Keh thought.


    His eyes reddened slightly as the rising light hit them.


    Ophelia, gazing at the sunrise, held a glimmer of hope in her eyes,


    "If only the sunrise in Gloomhaven could bring people this kind of hope," she whispered.


    Ophelia took a deep breath of the fresh air.


    ''I believe one day Gloomhaven will be as prosperous as this ind,'' Ophelia thought.


    +6


    On the third day on the ind, in the morning, Sinir Group had some business to attend to, and Keh needed to start a video conference with them. Meanwhile, Ophelia had gone out.


    She visited the cultural street fromst night, with Ray and Eric following her.


    The cultural street during the day waspletely different, with buildings reminiscent of Venice on water.


    She eventually found the figurine shop.


    Yesterday, Ophelia had asked the shop owner if she could make her own figurines.


    Ophelia wanted to sculpt cartoon figurines of herself and Keh.


    As soon as Ophelia walked in, the owner recognized her.


    Although many people passed through the store every day, Ophelia''s appearance was quite remarkable, the kind of face that once seen, could never be forgotten. The entire morning was spent with Ophelia carefully learning how to mold cartoon figurines out of y.


    She picked it up quickly.


    Ophelia was always meticulous, never overlooking any detail, and she worked with great focus.


    Eric leaned against the doorframe, hands in his pockets, chewing gum and blowing a big bubble. "It''s ugly."


    Hearing this, Ophelia suddenly looked up, shooting a sharp re at Eric,


    "I''m just being honest," Eric said nonchntly. "This doesn''t evenpare to the ones I made when I was a kid, ying with y."


    His tone was as innocent as could be.


    "You think you can do better? Go ahead." Ophelia shot back, giving him a look. She really wanted to go out and fight Eric.


    "Fine, I''ll do it," Eric said, walking over and grabbing a piece of y.


    If you want to y, just say it,'' Ophelia thought to herself.


    Eric, holding the y, nced at Ray, who was standing by the door, smoking.


    Chapter 260-


    "Ray, don''t move. I''m going to make a figurine of you," Eric said.


    Ray frowned, snuffing out his cigarette. "You''ve got some skills? Fine, make me look cooler."


    Eric tied his long hair back with a rubber band and began shaping the y, trying to do it with some ir.


    The two of them were acting like kids in kindergarten making crafts.


    Ophelia had finished Keh''s figurine, and when she started on her own, she clearly worked faster.


    Eric licked his lips and showed a mischievous little fang.


    "All done," Eric said, holding up the figurine.


    Ray leaned in to take a look and then smacked him on the back of the head. "It looks like a big evil demon with a mustache. Is this what I look like?"


    "Doesn''t it?" Eric scratched his head.


    Ophelia nced over, unable to hold back augh.


    That figurine did have a bit of Ray''s spirit in it, after all.


    By midday, Ophelia had finally finished both cartoon figurines.


    She ced them together under a transparent ss disy case


    One was Keh, and the other was Ophelia.


    Their hands were tightly sped together, and the base had the quote from yesterday: [You''ll always be together, longing for each other, day and night. Heartstrings touched, a first nce.] "Mrs. Sinir, you made them so well. Mr. Sinir is definitely going to like them." Rayplimented.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ophelia smiled, hoping Keh would like them.


    After paying, Ophelia took the figurines and headed back to the hotel.

 Jilted Bride 261

    In the study of the hotel suite, Keh leaned back against the gay leather chair.


    He took off his sses and rubbed his temples.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Mr. Sinir, here''s the coffee you requested. The waitress from yesterday entered, carefully cing the coffee beside Keh.


    She nced around the room and, not seeing Mrs. Sinir, became a little bolder. "Mr. Sinir, do you have a headache? My father often gets them. A sessful person like you must be overworking your brain with how busy you are." "Actually, I know a little bit of massage therapy. Would you like me to help you rx?" she asked.


    Keh closed his eyes. "What time is it?" His voice was still as cold as ever.


    The waitress nced at the clock. "It''s already past twelve."


    Ophelia should be back by now.


    Keh didn''t respond and put his sses back on.


    The waitress, confused but unwilling to ask more, stood silently.


    A momentter, she nced at the clock again. "Mr. Sinir, have you had lunch yet? Should I prepare lunch for you and Mrs. Sinir?"


    "Yes," Keh answered shortly.


    The waitress quickly went off to have lunch prepared.


    When Ophelia returned, she had picked up two decent-looking meals on the way.


    g table. As she walked in, she saw two restaurant servers setting the food down on the dining


    She ced the takeout in front of the marble dining table, eager to take the cartoon figurine she had bought into the study


    Inside the study, Keh sat


    The waitress held a frus behind the desk, with a waitress standing beside him.


    ttter


    and was standing close to Keh.


    "Hello, Mrs. Sinir," the waitress greeted her.


    The waitress gave Ophelia a slight nod, but she didn''t move to make space, even as Ophelia walked closer.


    Keh, sitting in front of theptop, didn''t speak.


    His gaze was still fixed on theptop under his sses, not even lifting his eyelids, offering no reaction.


    Ophelia tightened her grip on the paper bag in her hand and didn''t take out the contents right away.


    "Still busy?" Ophelia asked.


    After she spoke, she gave the waitress a faint, uninterested nce.


    Keh remained silent,pletely ignoring her.


    "You haven''t had lunch yet, have you? I got some food. Come out and eat with me. I''m starving," Ophelia said. 10:46 Sat, Nov 30 MUA:


    Chapter pot


    "Okay, Keh repliettaskly, his tone unchanged from before


    Ophelia''s heart sank a little, feeling ufortable. Especially wh Keh being so indifferent to her in front of another


    woman


    Maybe there really are important things he needs to handle at thepany, Ophelia thought to herself.


    "I''ll wait for you outside, Ophelia said, turning to leave the study


    As soon as she left, the waitress''s lips curled into a smug smile, thinking, ''Looks like Mrs. Sinir''s position in Mr. Sinir''s heart isn''t as high as I thought


    "Mr. Sinir, I think Mrs. Sinir seems a little upset," the waitress said, offering the fruit tter in front of him.


    "Get lost," Keh replied, his voicepletely devoid of warmth.


    The waitress froze, her hands hovering awkwardly in the air.


    "Mr. Sinir..." she said in a voice so small it was almost a whisper, clearly unwilling to ept the dismissal.


    Keh raised his eyes, his sharp gaze fixing directly on the waitress.


    The cold, intimidating aura surrounding him was enough to make anyone step back. The waitress quickly pulled her hands back and hurriedly left the room, looking timid.


    After leaving the study, Ophelia nced at the things in her hands. The smile that had been on her face earlier hadpletely faded.


    Soon after, Keh emerged from the study.


    "It''s already daytime. Why are you still wearing sses?" Ophelia asked, slightly ufortable. She had never quite gotten used to it, and something about this version of Keh seemed off. Although Keh still looked handsome with the sses, his eyes seemed more distant, different from before.


    "They''re for protection," Keh answered. He took off his sses and set them aside, then began eating.


    During the meal, neither of them spoke a word.


    Keh didn''t even ask where she had been this morning.


    Ophelia looked up at him and noticed his left hand was empty, lying on the table.


    She then looked at the hand holding the fork in his right hand. The ring she had given him yesterday was still missing.


    "Where''s the ring I gave you?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh casually raised his hand and nced at it. "It must not have been the right fit. I don''t know when it fell off." Keh''s tone made it sound as if he had lost something insignificant. Ophelia''s heart sank as if someone had dealt a heavy blow to her chest. Her throat felt constricted, like it was blocked by a cotton ball.


    "It''s fine. I''ll look for itter." Ophelia''s eyes darkened, and her words seemed more like an attempt tofort herself. The meal continued, but Ophelia couldn''t enjoy it.


    In the afternoon, Keh was still in the study, while Ophelia was alone in the pool. 10:46 Sat, Nov 30


    Is Keh mad at me? Did I stay out too long this morning? she thought to herself. Suddenly, she felt like it was her fault.


    She got out of the pool, took a shower, and changed into the pajamas Keh liked."


    Looking at herself in the mirror, Ophelia felt a little shy and put on a bathrobe over her pajamas.. She walked to the study, where Keh, wearing sses, was staring intently at hisptop, nce at her, his voice as cold as ice.


    "Is there something you need?" Keh lifted his eyelids For a moment, Ophelia thought she had misjudged the situation


    Keh''s gaze felt as distant as if he were looking at a stranger.


    She suddenly lost the courage to remove the bathrobe.


    "No, I just wanted to check if we have any ns for the afternoon?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh checked the time on his watch. "I''m busy."


    Ophelia nodded obediently, thinking for a moment before gathering her courage to ask, "Are you mad at me?"


    Otherwise, why is he so cold? Could he be pretending?'' Ophelia wondered.


    Taking a deep breath, Ophelia didn''t wait for Keh''s response and quickly untied the robe.


    The bathrobe slipped off.


    Ophelia was wearing a ck V-neck pajama set underneath, the skirt short andce-trimmed.


    With her delicate skin, the outfit was irresistibly alluring.


    Keh''s throat involuntarily moved, his brows furrowing tightly as his breath quickened.


    He forced himself to look away, trying to avoid being drawn in.


    X81%E


    "There''s an urgent matter with the Death Guild. You should go out and have fun on your own. "Keh turned his head, focusing on theptop screen, though he couldn''t read a single word.


    However, the next second, Ophelia walked around the desk and sat in hisp, her clear eyes locked on his.


    "Are you sure? You want me to go alone?" Ophelia asked.


    Before Keh could answer, her lips pressed against his, slowly overwhelming whatever sanity he had left.


    "Ophelia!" Her name slipped through Keh''s teeth.


    Ophelia paused, looking at him with a hurt expression. "You... don''t like it?"


    It was the first time Ophelia had been so bold, wearing such pajamas. These were the ones Keh had bought for her a long time ago. Seeing his cold eyes, she immediately deted.


    "Is it that I don''t look good in it?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh could feel Ophelia''s nervous tension as she sat in hisp. Even the exposed part of her back was stiff and uneas Just the thought of her wearing something like this for another man one day, after he''s gone, filled his chest with fiery at 10.46 Sat, Nov 30


    Chapter Mil


    Yes. Keh answered without hesitation


    He swiftly removed his sses, his vision blurred and far less tolerate than seeing her in such a seductive state.


    Tine, I won''t wear it again. Ophelia said as she stood up fromp, picked up the bathrobe from the floor, wrapped in around herself, and quickly left the study.


    The entire afternoon, Keh didn''t leave the study.


    Late at night, Ophelia was asleep.


    Keh finally emerged from the study, gazing at Ophelia, who was peacefully resting in bed. His eyes, under the lenses, gradually softened.


    Keh''s finger gently traced Ophelia''s cheek.


    Ophelia wasn''t sleeping soundly. As someone approached, she woke up groggily and saw Keh sitting at the edge of her


    bed.


    She reached out and took his hand. "Has everything with the Death Guild been taken care of?"


    Keh immediately withdrew his hand. "Yes."


    The warmth vanished from her hand, and Ophelia couldn''t tell if she was dreaming or if it was reality.


    She just stared at Keh, dazed.


    She felt like Keh had be so unfamiliar to her.


    "Is something wrong?" Ophelia asked.

 Jilted Bride 262

    The ran was so quirt that the only sound was the rhythm of t


    After a moment, Keh stood up, his broad, tall figure turned away from her.


    You ran stay a couple more days if you want, but Death Guild has an urgent matter that requires me to return," Keh


    Is the vacation really ending like this? Ophelia thought, momentarily stunned.


    Ophelia propped herself up. "So soon?"


    They had agreed on about a week, but it hadn''t even been three days.


    "When are you leaving? How long will you be gone? Ophie wanted to remind him about picking up the marriage license on the first of next month.


    But faced with this Keh, Ophelia wasn''t sure how to bring it up.


    "Leaving first thing tomorrow morning," Keh turned his head, not even looking at Ophelia as he spoke,


    He didn''t mention when he would be back.


    Ophelia was confused. Today, Keh was acting so differently.


    "I''ll go with you, Darling. After all, thepany has postponed everything," Ophelia said sleepily, her voice soft and sweet, with a gentle, almost childlike quality that made anyone who heard it feel a warmth inside. Keh''s shoulders moved slightly as he let out a breath, and his gaze drifted toward Ophelia on the bed.


    "Ophelia, can you not be so clingy?" Keh said.


    His tone was cold and detached.


    Ophelia felt like she must be dreaming. Keh would never speak to her like this.


    Even if he was upset, he wouldn''t sound so indifferent.


    Ophelia stared at him nkly for a long time.


    The dim light illuminated Keh''s cold profile, the sharp bridge of his nose framed by gold-rimmed sses, his thin lips tightly pressed in a frosty line.


    The unfamiliar look in his eyes made Ophelia feel suffocated.


    "I''m clingy?" Ophelia whispered, almost as if she were asking herself.


    ''Yeah, why have I be so clingy?'' Ophelia thought.


    She lowered her eyes, her innocent gaze faltering as if she were a lost little kitten abandoned by its owner.


    Ophelia''s longshes trembled.


    Out of Ophelia''s sight, Keh clenched his fists so tightly that veins bulged from his arms.


    His heart felt like it was being ripped apart.


    Chapters


    Croxleep, Krimeth and


    The fred sad left, leaving only the sillment of his bak


    Ophelia''s heart acheil, the pain causing her to furrow her brow she sat on the bed, hugging her knees, her mind wide


    Even when krimeth was inset with her before, Ophelia never felt this kind of distance and coldness.


    She really wondered if the person she just interacted with was adually Keh.


    The long night passed slowly, and Ophelia sat on the swing on the balcony, letting the cold wind blow over her, feeling unusually calm.


    The next morning, just as dawn broke, Keh left the hotel.


    Ophelia got up to see him off, dark circles under her eyes fromck of sleep.


    The ind wasrge, with an international airport, but it required a drive to reach it.


    Ophelia watched as Keh got into the car.


    He didn''t even give her the usual goodbye kiss, and he seemed indifferent, as if she had no significance to him at all.


    Ophelia quietly watched the car drive away.


    Her gaze gradually shifted back to Eric, and their eyes met for a brief moment.


    Ophelia didn''t need to say a word for Eric to understand.


    Eri? raised an eyebrow, his hands in his pockets, ncing at Ray


    "Mrs. Sinir, leaving you here alone on the ind..." Ray started.


    "I''m fine. You should worry about Keh," Ophelia said, having thought about it all night. The recent events had confirmed her suspicions.


    ''Keh isn''t acting right, not right at all. He''s hiding something from me,'' Ophelia thought.


    Before Ophelia''s time travel, Keh had been willing to die for her, but in this life, there was no way he could suddenly be this cold.


    There could only be one possibility. Either Keh was intentionally pushing her away, or he was involved in something dangerous.


    In any case, Keh''s feelings for Ophelia hadn''t changed.


    Ray hesitated, sensing something was wrong between them, and silently followed Eric.


    It wasn''t clear when, but Ray had started to forget he was just Keh''s subordinate.


    Keh''s car reached the international airport, and a few bodyguards in ck suits cleared the way. Each of them had a gun at their waist, and arge group followed behind them, an impressive disy. Keh, wearing a baseball cap, revealed only the sharp lower half of his face.


    His firm jaw tightened slightly as he stopped in front of the VIP entrance.


    Keh tumed his heel shally and real at the holyguard by side him


    The bonlyguard nodded in understanding


    Twenty minutester, in the International air pant lounge, aberntmindedly rubbing the ring on his ring finger


    with his legs crossed on a light colored leather sofa,


    Three or five hisdyguards appeared at the door, holding two pele in check.


    Ray lowered his head, his hands cuffed behind him, a gun presed against his waist.


    Eric was in the same position, also being dragged in. A look of friistration crossed Eric''s face.


    If it were just him, he was sure no one would have noticed.


    "You two thought you could follow me? You think I didn''t noticest time?" Keh said with a lightugh, slightly tilting his head.


    The sharp gaze beneath his cap made everyone in the room feel uneasy, radiating arrogance and confidence.


    Keh knew it. Ophelia wasn''t so easy to fool.


    "Mr. Sinir, Mrs. Sinir is just worried about you," Ray spoke up but was immediately met with a piercing re from Keh.


    "Don''t forget who you belong to." Keh''s voice was low, carrying deep displeasure and a clear warning.


    Keh''s presence was cold and intimidating.


    Even the bodyguards around them held their breath, having not seen Keh like this in a long time.


    Ray lowered his head. "I''m willing to take the punishment, but... Eric doesn''t know the rules of Death Guild. Please forgive him, Mr. Sinir."


    Eric frowned, his bright, deep eyes focused on Ray.


    There was an odd feeling rising in Eric''s chest, something he couldn''t quite ce, a sense of irritation. He didn''t want Ray t speak on his behalf.


    Eric raised his head, the strands of hair at his temples swaying slightly.


    "Am I not the one you sent with Ray to protect Elia''s safety, to follow her orders? What''s wrong with that? Keh, is there something you''ve done to wrong Elia?" Eric asked. Keh''s brows furrowed even deeper.


    ''How could I have agreed to leave Eric in Death Guild? He''s truly fearless, Keh thought.


    Keh''s jaw tightened slightly. Two secondster, his eyes driftedzily from Eric.


    "So what if I have?" Keh responded.


    "Is that really the case?" Eric''s youthful face darkened, a cold, almost imperceptible murderous intent radiating from him a his fists clenched.


    The next moment, Eric broke free from the hold of two bodyguards. In the blink of an eye, he grabbed a gun from one of the guards and pointed it directly at Keh. "Eric!" Ray shouted, trying to stop him.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    §à


    At the same time, lezers of guns were immediately pointed


    0281%


    The bodyguards holding Ray in ce made synchronized movements, and Ray''s hand froze as he reached for his gun,


    Ray nced between Keh, who appeared unfazed, and Eric whose face was filled with hostility.


    Eric, put the gun down, or you won''t be leaving today," Ray said in a low voice, his heartbeat quickening.


    The dozens of guns aimed at Eric were enough to turn him into Swiss cheese.


    Eric ignored him, the barrel of the gun still unwavering. "You could kill me with just one word. I''ve owed my life to you for a long time, and without Elia, I wouldn''t have made it this far. "Keh, a person like you doesn''t deserve Elia."


    "Eric, what are you saying?" Ray asked, panic in his voice, wishing he could rush over and silence Eric.


    Ray quickly nced at Keh, only to see him slowly standing up and fastening his suit jacket.


    "So what?" Keh asked calmly, his voice unwavering. "You want to kill me for her? You''re not worthy."

 Jilted Bride 263

    With those words, Keh pulled out his handgun. Bang!


    The bullet hit Eric''s arm, where he had been holding a gun. Thud!


    The gun dropped from Eric''s hand, his face turning as pale as a hect. He sneered, revealing a small fang on one side. "You''re not worthy of Elia... A rich kid like you has no idea how much E has suffered..." Suddenly, memories of the first time Eric had met Elia rushed to his mind.


    When he was a child, Eric had been beaten by his adoptive father and ran off to a small hill in Gloomhaven, where there was a church, and on the table, the pastor had left some desserts.


    Hiding behind a tree, Eric saw a little girl with dirty hands reaching for the desserts.


    She ate while praying.


    The desserts were already spoiled, but she kept shoving them into her mouth.


    Later, whenever Eric was beaten, he would run into her.


    As they grew older, she taught Eric to write, and he taught her boxing.


    She protected everyone around her, like the sun.


    Butst night, Eric had seen the light in Elia''s eyes vanish for the first time.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Eric''s gaze turned fierce, like a wild wolf, the corners of his lips cut from where he had bitten them. "Do you how much courage Elia had to gather... just toe to you... you''re not worthy..." have any idea..


    Keh''s expression darkened so much it seemed like ink might drip from his face, with a faint streak of crimson spreading at the corners of his eyes.


    He clenched his back teeth, his heart burning with fury.


    "Throw him into the sea," Kehmanded.


    Eric''s smirk deepened. Several bodyguards immediately rushed forward and restrained him. Bright red blood dripped fre his arm onto the light blue fabric of his clothes, staining the gray carpet beneath him. Ray, sweating profusely from his forehead, spoke desperately. "Mr. Sinir, Eric is still just a kid. He didn''t mean to say those things. Mr. Sinir..."


    "Do you want to join him?" Keh''s icy gaze turned to Ray, his voice colder than ever.


    "Mr. Sinir... Mrs. Sinir will never forgive you for this..." Ray could only bring up Ophelia at this point.


    Before he could finish, the bodyguards behind Ray grabbed him.


    "Take him back to Death Guild," Keh said, walking past Ray without a second nce.


    Eric looked at Ray, his expression almost as if he were saying goodbye.


    Cold sweat trickled down Eric''s forehead, dampening the stray hairs near his temples, revealing one sharp fang.


    At the rent hotel. Ophelia was checking tigh


    Keworth''s private jet had already flown to Mgia,


    Con the pleme


    the would have to book her own flight back to Dene


    She couldn''t get a flight for today, and the earliest avable was on


    Ophelia would have to stay here alone for the night.


    Since Keh wasn''t around, she decided to inspect the work at the hotel.


    evening.


    After leaving her room, she walked through a short park and crossed the lobby, where she overheard three waitresses whispering to each other.


    "Is it true, I? Did you meet Mr. Sinir? Is he really as handsome as in the news?" one slightly chubby woman asked.


    She had been off yesterday and missed seeing him, which she felt was such a shame.


    Keh was the head of Sinir Group, the most powerful man in Heloria. Even the ruler of Heloria had to show him respect.


    Since Keh took control of Sinir Group, he had elevated Heloria''s economy to new heights. Who wouldn''t want to meet this legendary figure?


    I Wilson nodded. "Of course. He''s even more handsome in person than on TV. And... Mr. Sinir is so much of a gentleman, so kind. He''s nothing like the harsh and distant image they say he has on TV."


    I spoke as if describing someone she admired, her voice tinged with the shyness unique to young girls. When she though of Keh, she lowered her head, blushing.


    It was easy to see the admiration in her expression.


    Another strikingly beautiful woman chuckled and teased. "I, don''t tell me seeing Mr. Sinir made your heart flutter? I heard Mr. Sinir came here with Mrs. Sinir for vacation. Mr. Sinir is already married." The implication was clear.


    "Hey, are you jealous? Jealous of I? She''s the most beautiful one among us. Besides, a man like Mr. Sinir is irresistible. There are countless women who would want to be with him. What''s one more woman?" the chubby woman replied, rolling her eyes. "A businessman like him might have a wife at home, but he probably has plenty of admirers outside. Didn''t they say that a gentledy is a perfect match for a gentleman?


    "A man like Mr. Sinir, Keh, is definitely notcking in attention from other women," the chubby woman continued confidently.


    I blushed even more. "What are you talking about? It''s not like that... But..."


    She paused as if thinking of something. "But... I feel like Mr. Sinir and Mrs. Sinir''s rtionship isn''t exactly harmonious. He seems cold toward her, not gentle at all." I recounted everything she had seen and heard yesterday to the two women in front of her.


    "Maybe Mrs. Sinir just isn''t that attractive. I heard that people from big families often prefer business marriages and stu Maybe there''s no real affection between them." "Hey, that''s normal. Men need novelty. After a while, they get bored. Besides, Mrs. Sinir? Please... Mr. Sinir never ever


    announced his page. Se in a way, Mr. Sinir is still single


    The three women chatted eagerly,pletely oblivious to the person walking up behind them,


    Oplicia nced at the work clock disyed in the hotel lobby


    "If I''m not mistaken, it should be working hours right now. Ophelia''s voice was calm and even.


    The three women jumped, quickly straightened up, and moved to the side, lowering their heads slightly.


    Ophelia had overheard everything, especially thement. "Men need novelty. After a while, they get bored."


    Although Ophelia had already guessed that Keh might be deliberately distancing himself from her for some reason, those words still stung.


    After all, before her time travel, Ophelia had always pushed Keh away and had never truly epted him. But in this life, Ophelia had been too proactive, too clingy. Perhaps Keh really had grown tired of her. The chubby woman realized the person in front of her wasn''t a manager but rather a guest. Her fear quickly faded. "Who is this?"


    "Mrs. Sinir," I answered.


    ''So this is Mrs. Sinir,'' the chubby woman thought to herself.


    She was indeed somewhat attractive, but even though she was good-looking, it was obvious she was just a woman who could only coax men, useless.


    "Mrs. Sinir, hello! Why are you alone? Isn''t Mr. Sinir with you?" The chubby woman approached Ophelia with a yful grin, showing no fear.


    The chubby woman gave off an impression of innocence, but her eyes


    held a malicious glint.


    ''They''re not even married. She''s Mrs. Sinir today, but who knows what she''ll be tomorrow, just some ordinary woman. As long as Mr. Sinir isn''t married, every woman still has a chance, she thought. With that in mind, the chubby woman grew bolder in her behavior.

 Jilted Bride 264

    "Oh, my apologies, Mrs. Sinir. Ipletely forgot Mr. Sinciale left early this morning, didn''t he? Flowe he left you all alone the chubby woman said casually. Her eyes appeared innocent, but there was a distinct air of disdain and contempt.


    Ophelia''s strikingly sharp features were beautiful enough to stir jealousy.


    It I''s looks could be rated a five, Ophelia''s were a fifty.


    ''But if Mr. Sinir really liked her, he wouldn''t have left her here alone on the ind, she thought. Clearly, she doesn''t hold much importance to him. Ophelia ignored the chubby woman''s provocation and looked at I, who at least seemed to know how to behave. "Call Charles over." "Okay, Mrs. Sinir," I said.


    Just as I reached for the phone at the front desk, the chubby woman quickly ced her hand on I''s.


    "This ind belongs to Mr. Sinir, and Charles is in charge of everything here. How could we possibly have his contact information?


    "Mrs. Sinir, if you need any service, just let us know. No need to trouble the boss over something small," the chubby woman said. "You''re acting a bit too high and mighty," she added, her voice low but audible enough for those nearby to hear.


    Ophelia nced at her name tag. "Abigail Peterson?"


    "Yes, Mrs. Sinir, Is there anything I can assist you with?" Abigail''s tone was dripping with sarcasm, and the smile on her face carried no hint of respect. "You can pack your things and leave. You''re fired," Ophelia said.


    "What? What did you say?" Abigail straightened up in confusion. "How dare you fire me? This ind doesn''t just belong to you!"


    "That''s why I asked you to call Charles and have hime handle it," Ophelia responded.


    Her words left Abigail momentarily stunned, and she quickly disyed a hint of panic in her eyes.


    Seeing the three of them frozen, Ophelia took out her phone and sent Charles a voice message on WhatsApp.


    Within three minutes, Charles, who had been overseeing the expansion of the women''s restroom, hurried over.


    Sweat was visible on his forehead, but he didn''tin.


    After seeing Keh''s attitude toward Ophelia earlier, Charles immediately understood that Ophelia was no ordinary person in Keh''s eyes. "Mrs. Sinir, is there something you need?" Charles asked.


    Seeing Charles, usually so stern, now acting so polite and even a bit obsequious toward Ophelia, Abigail felt both frustrated and stunned.


    "Mrs. Sinir, are you settling personal scores now? Yes, I may have said a few things, but I wasn''t the only one talking. I was


    10:46 Sat, Nov 30 ** 1


    81


    just curious about the grey People like you are really going to Bold me to ht? Abigail said


    yen


    Opheba couldnt help butugh in frustration. What a troublesome woman, dhe though


    Setting scores Hardly. The ind will likely host many guests and some of them will have important statuses. Are you nning to gossip about all of them?" Ophelia replied.


    Abigail looked to the two people beside her, furious that they wouldn''t speak up for her.


    She must have heard what I said earlier. This is clearly settling personal score: Abigail thought.


    However, Abigail had already offended the other two with her remarks.


    The two who had once considered helping her now feared being associated with her and remained silent.


    "Abigail, you''re fired. Pack up and leave now," Charles said, his brow furrowed as he switched to his usual no-nonsense tone when addressing them. "As for the other two, this is a warning. there''s a next time, you''ll be just like her." The other two nodded vigorously.


    Abigail clenched her fists. Since she was already fired, she wasn''t afraid anymore. "You''re just abusing your position under the title of Mrs. Sinir, aren''t you? Without that, you''re nothing..."


    "That''s right, and what''s wrong with that?" Ophelia didn''t deny it. She raised an eyebrow, her expression challenging. "What are you going to do about it?"


    Ophelia knew that with this identity, she could do whatever she pleased.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Since she had the power, she was more than


    ling t


    enjoy it.


    Abigail, furious and envious, had her face twisted with


    rage.


    ''How could a woman with such character deserve to be Mrs. Sinir?'' she thought.


    Ophelia shifted her gaze and walked past Abigail, leaving without a word.


    After Charles finished handling things, he immediately followed Ophelia.


    The whole morning, Ophelia inspected the entire hotel, asking a number of well-thought-out questions that were both reasonable and pointed.


    Charles couldn''t help but admire her. Even without her current status, Ophelia would still be an exceptional person.


    Though Ophelia seemed young, her ability to see through things was sharp and precise.


    At noon, Ophelia wandered around two other cultural streets she hadn''t been to before. She came across a cake shop by the sea, one she recognized as Yee Cake, the chain Keh had once gifted her. The logo was a cartoon little fox surrounded by a ring of leaves, cute and yful.


    The shop''s decor was a blend of sky blue and cream white, giving it the feel of being surrounded by clouds.


    As she entered, the rich aroma of cakes and cream filled the air, with a disy case full of various delicate cakes and pastries, all dazzling and inviting.


    There were so many she hadn''t tried before.


    They had introduced several new cakes, many of which had design concepts that were inspired by Ophelia herself.


    "Me Spencer, would vor ideia try something chestnut, strawberry, and green apple, she introduced.


    heim


    new Seaso


    Love is really popr. Ites in four vors, matcha,


    3


    Ophe looked at the four bemnifully crafted cakes, each one asr had often bought for her, vors she had praised before.


    "Okay, I''ll have that one. Ophelia said.


    "Sure, the salesgirl nodded.


    as the next. They were the same vors Keh


    Ophelia found a seat by the window, also ordering an iced smoothie, and gazed out at the rolling waves crashing against the rocks


    On the beach, many people were lounging under sunshades, soaking up the sun.


    Before long, the server brought over her order. "Enjoy your meal


    She thanked them and began to eat.


    Matcha was Ophelia''s favorite vor, and she usually saved it forst.


    The familiar taste spread through her mouth, exactly like the cakes Keh used to buy her.


    The cake was sweet, but for some reason, Ophelia tasted a hint of bitterness as she ate it.


    In the past, Keh used toe back every weekend to spend time with Ophelia, always bringing her desserts.


    As she was about to take thest bite of the matcha cake, her fork barely making it to her mouth, she suddenly heard an exmation from outside.


    ""Damn, is that a person?"


    "It looks like it."


    "Ugh... is it a person or a corpse? How did it wash up on the shore?"


    Ophelia looked up in surprise and saw someone being washed up on the beach by the waves.


    From a distance, the person''s clothes nearly blended into the sea.


    ''ck pants, sneakers, long hair... Eric?'' Ophelia thought.


    Her heart skipped a beat, and she quickly set down the fork and stood up, rushing out of the cake shop toward the shore.


    ''Eric was wearing that same outfit today. Didn''t he go to follow Keh? How did he end up washed up on the beach? What happened?'' Ophelia thought anxiously.

 Jilted Bride 265

    Ophelia pushed through the crowd of onlookers and stepped forward, finding Eric lying there, his face ashen, eyes tightly shut, with a gunshot wound on his shoulder.


    For a moment, it felt like her mind exploded with a loud ringing


    She crouched down, her fingers trembling as she checked his breathing. It was faint, almost nonexistent.


    At the same time, Charles rushed over, startled that such an incident could happen on the ind. He worried that Ophelia might find out,


    Just as Charles was thinking this, he spotted the familiar figure. Mrs. Sinir..."


    "He''s still breathing, quickly call for a doctor," Ophelia said.


    "Oh, yes..." Charles was momentarily stunned, quickly giving orders to send for the medical team.


    An hourter, Eric was lying in arge bed at the hotel, his lean upper body covered by nkets.


    His right shoulder was bandaged, and his long hair was messy, cascading around his face. His once youthful face had lost all color, but fortunately, his breathing had steadied, no longer as faint as before. Charles, recognizing him as one of Keh and Ophelia''spanions, immediately instructed his subordinates to investigate the situation.


    A subordinate knocked and entered, first ncing at the man on the bed, then looking at Ophelia.


    The words on his lips faltered.


    Charles understood, was about to step out with him, but Ophelia stopped him.


    "Whatever it is, just say it here," she said.


    The burly man pursed his lips, ncing at Charles.


    Charles nodded slightly, signaling him to speak. "We''ve looked into it. This gentleman was dragged out of the airport and thrown into the sea. It was... Mr. Sinir''s men who did it," he said.


    He lowered his voice for the second part of the sentence, clearly not fully understanding what had happened.


    They had already heard that Keh was ruthless in his actions, and this time, they had witnessed it firsthand.


    "Was he the only one thrown into the sea?" Ophelia asked, her voice cold.


    "Ah? Yes, just him," he replied.


    Ophelia''s face turned frosty, a heavy stone pressing down on her chest.


    ''What does this mean? What is Keh doing? Ray and Eric went together. If they were discovered, they should have been found together.


    ''Besides, Eric is my person. He knows what''s going on. Even if Keh wanted to kill him, at least he would''ve considered my feelings, right? But he didn''t. What exactly happened?'' she thought. Ophelia nced at Eric, who was still lying on the bed. ''What could he have done to anger Keh so much?'' she wondered. She sighed and decided to wait until Eric woke up to ask him. 1/4


    TU:40 Sat, Nov 30


    It''s alright. Charles, orango ahead, just leave one doctor door. Ophe said.


    "Okay Charles obeyed her instructions and left with his subordinates


    Not long after they left, Eric''s eyelids fluttered twire.


    Erie coughed a few times, then winced as his shoulder wound throbbed. His brows knitted tightly, and his pale face grew even grayer, looking almost lifeless,


    Ophelia moved forward and ced a pillow behind his head.


    As soon as she finished. Eric''s eyes suddenly snapped open.


    He tried to sit up but only managed to rise halfway, and the white nket slipped from around his neck, revealing his bare upper body.


    Seeing Ophelia, he grabbed her wrist with surprising force.


    You''re injured and still so strong," Ophelia said.


    Eric''s voice was hoarse and weak. "Keh... he betrayed you... leave him, he doesn''t deserve you."


    Ophelia froze for a moment, not quite processing what she had just heard.


    Her expression remained calm, but her hands tightened into fists, her nails digging into her palms without her realizing it. "What are you talking about? What... what did see?" you


    No one knew, but at that moment, Ophelia felt a chill sweep through her, from her toes to the tips of her hair. Her body felt as though it were submerged in cold ocean water, and her face paled in response. Unconsciously, Ophelia swallowed, and suddenly that phrase she had once heard echoed in her mind. "Men need novelty. After a while, they get bored..."


    ''Could it really be like that?'' Ophelia thought. ''Before my time travel, because I refused him, Keh was more devoted. But now, because I''ve be more proactive and clingy, Keh has grown tired of me?'' ''Is that why he doesn''t care about the people around me, even resorting to violence without considering my feelings? These thoughts flitted through Ophelia''s mind in a mere second or two.


    Ophelia''s heart grew restless, and she easily pulled her wrist free from Eric''s grip. "What exactly did you see? Ray went with you. Where is he?"


    Eric coughed a few more times. Ophelia, irritated, handed him a ss of water, spilling some on the nket in the process. Eric took a small sip, and though his shoulder remained numb, the pain seemed to fade. His voice was weak, but having endured countless injuries over the years, these minor wounds meant little to him.


    Eric told Ophelia the full story.


    As soon as they reached the airport, they were spotted by Keh''s men.


    And during thest surveince, Keh was aware of it.


    Ophelia knew it was just as she had expected, which was why she couldn''t find anything. Keh wouldn''t let her discover anything.


    Keh was definitely on guard, and Ophelia realized she shouldn''t have let Eric take that risk.


    A hint of guilt flickered phelia''s eyes as she grabbed a piece of paper and tossed it aside.


    Once Eric had finished speaking. Ophelia''s expression slowly began to soften.


    Her beautiful eyes held a hint of a smile.


    What are you smiling at? I almost died, and you''re happy about it?" Eric questioned, suddenly feeling a sharp pain in his shoulder


    Ophelia nced at the white bandage soaked with blood and showed a brief moment of concern. "Don''t move too much.. Keh won''t let you die."


    It seemed like a randomment from Ophelia, but it immediately caught Eric''s attention.


    Eric furrowed his brow. He had been confused just a moment ago, but suddenly realized something. His deep eyes turned toward Ophelia.


    Ophelia''s expression shifted, the rity from earlier reced by a deeper worry.


    "You mean... Keh deliberately had me brought back this way, just to use me as a mouthpiece to tell you that he betrayed you? Is that what you mean?" Eric asked, unsure if he had guessed correctly. Ophelia nodded slightly.


    Ophelia felt a twinge of frustration. How had she only just realized this? Keh''s actions were designed to make her question their rtionship..


    ''He wants to push me away. So what happened to him?'' Ophelia thought to herself.


    She nced at Eric on the bed. "Wait for me here on the ind. need to go to Mgia." Ophelia was determined to confront Keh personally and get to the truth. "What if... if I''m lucky and he really did betray you... can you ept it?" Eric asked. "He won''t," Ophelia replied.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Her gaze was firm and confident, her eyes suddenly sparkling with determination.


    The slight tilt of her chin seemed oddly familiar to Eric.


    ''Damn. She really does look just like Keh,'' Eric thought.


    The ne to Mgia wouldn''t leave until early the next morning. While Ophelia wished she could fly there immediately, she didn''t have wings, and there was nothing she could do.


    She would have to stay for one more night.


    After leaving Eric''s room, Ophelia returned to her own.


    She took the cartoon figurine set from her gift bag and ced it on her bedside table.


    Ophelia stared at the figure of Keh, a frown forming on her face. "So, what exactly are you hiding from me? Are you nning something dangerous?"


    The author is working hard to update It''s more excitingter, let check it out tomorrow


    SIMILAR STORIES BEFORE YOU EXIT


    Submitting To My Ex-Wife


    00081%


    DING TO


    Becky Wood was a wealthy youngdy whose childhood wish was to marry her huckleberry friend, Sigmund Moolery. Her wish came true when Sigmu....


    ? Ongoing


    When Becky Wood woke up, she felt a severe soreness throughout her body. Even her fingers felt weak.


    She was all smiles as she recalled what had happened the previous night. Her heart was overflowing with subtle and tender feelings of sweetness.


    It had been two years. Sigmund Moolery finally wanted her.


    Becky had endured difort all night. She was still feeling ufortable at the moment. However, as she recalled how passionate Sigmund had been the previous night, her cheeks flushed again. "So, he loves me, right?" she thought to herself.


    The sound of the rushing water in the bathroom stopped. Upon hearing the sound of the door opening, Becky immediately closed her eyes shyly.


    Feeling a shadow cast over her, Becky''s cheeks flushed a little.


    The next moment, a warm andrge hand suddenly gripped her neck.


    Becky opened her eyes in shock and met the man''s cold and dark eyes.


    Sigmund''s tone was cold as he said, "You''ve got the guts to climb into my bed, but you don''t have the guts to look at me, huh?"


    His gaze toward her was utterly devoid of the affection that he used to show her in the past. Instead, it was so cold that he appeared to be looking at an enemy.


    Becky turned pale. She hurriedly exined, "No, I''m not. I..."


    "Becky, why are you so shameless?" Sigmund said coldly. "It is clearly stated in the contract that this marriage is in name only. You have vited the agreement." Becky clearly saw a sh of disgust in his eyes. A wave of intense pain surged through her heart in an instant.


    He said it was disgusting.


    The passion the previous night was nothing but disgust in his eyes.

 Jilted Bride 266

    Through the long, lonely night, Ophelia barely got any sleep.


    She tried messaging and calling Keh, but just as she had suspected, his phone was off.


    By the time morning arrived, the fog by the seaside was thick, and there was no sunrise that day.


    Ophelia changed into a white sports outfit with ck stripes, put on a baseball cap, and slung a sports backpack over her shoulder. Before leaving, she nced at the figurine on the bedside table. The long flight to Mgia was uneventful, and when Ophelia arrived, it was still daytime.


    She managed to nap on the ne. Afternding, she immediately rented a car and drove off, following the route she had takenst time to Death Guild.


    Death Guild was in a very hidden location, and it didn''t show up on the navigation system at all.


    Ophelia had no choice but to rely on her memory to find the way.


    The scene lookedpletely different in winter.


    Once she left the bustling areas, she almost made a wrong turn several times.


    Without the city''s traffic lights to limit her, Ophelia sped along the wide asphalt roads in the military green Jeep she had rented.


    Eventually, the car entered the familiar dense forest, and from a distance, she saw the Death Guild building backed by a towering mountain.


    The trees here were even denser, making it harder to spot the ce.


    When she was still a little ways off, a few familiar ck SUVS suddenly appeared from a distance and blocked her path.


    A group of people got out of the vehicles.


    The man at the front was tall and muscr, with tanned skin covered in bold tattoos, wearing a ck sleeveless shirt, with more tattoos on his neck and head. "You can''te in here," he said.


    They had noticed the Jeep the moment it appeared on their remote surveince.


    Ophelia hadn''t taken the regr road but had headed directly for Death Guild, a ce known to very few. The moment she showed up, they triggered their defense systems. Ophelia lowered the car window and was immediately surrounded by a group of men, with the distinct feeling that if she didn''t leave, they''d carry her away.


    "I''m looking for someone," Ophelia said coldly.


    "Looking for someone? This ce isn''t somewhere you can just stroll into," the man replied.


    If anyone could juste in looking for someone, this wouldn''t have been Death Guild.


    Everyone who came here was never heard from again.


    The man''s tone was harsh, and his intimidating appearance would have made most people cower.


    ti


    But Ophelia remained calm, slowly removing her gray sunsses and meeting the man''s gaze.


    This was too coincidental.


    The man at the front was Bighost, the same one she had taught a lesson to before.


    Bighost would never forget her face. Seeing her bright, delicate face again felt like seeing a fierce predator, and he instinctively took a step back. "You... what are you doing here?" Bighost stammered.


    He was so nervous that his voice faltered. He swallowed hard and rubbed his chest unconsciously.


    After all, she had taught him a severe lesson, and then Ray had shot him, making him stay in recovery for over a month.


    The others around him were confused, not understanding why Bighost was acting like this.


    The nearly 7-foot-tall man suddenly seemed to shrink in front of a woman.


    "I''m looking for Keh. Move aside," Ophelia said, not wanting to waste time.


    Bighost was taken aback. He hadn''t expected her to be the one.


    Just as he was unsure how to react, another car drove up from behind them.


    When the car came to a stop, a woman got out of the front passenger seat. She had short hair, slightly longer now, tied half-up at the back of her head.


    Her attractive figure was entuated by the summer clothes she wore, revealing her sexy curves.


    "Sorry, Ms. Spencer, you can''te in without Mr. Sinir''s permission," Mnie said, her tone professional but carrying an air of authority, though it seemed like she was making a mountain out of a molehill. "What if I insist on going in?" Ophelia asked, her lips curling into a smile. Her beautiful, innocent face disyed a harmless expression, and her clear eyes seemed to peer straight through people. "Then, I''m sorry," Mnie said.


    With that, another group of people emerged behind her.


    Ophelia looked at the group, her smile growing.


    This was likely a sign that Keh wasn''t involved in anything dangerous. Otherwise, the key members of the Death Guild she had encounteredst time wouldn''t have alle out at the sight of her arrival. Arge group of people swarmed around her.


    *****


    The Death Guild data monitoring center had a high-tech, modern feel.


    Keh leaned back in his chair, his sharp brows never rxing for a moment. He wore gold-framed sses on his nose, -and his deep eyes were fixed on therge screen in front of him. ''She really came. Does she trust that I won''t change my mind?'' Keh thought.


    His fingers tightened around the armrest, creaking slightly.


    Someone was standing behind him.


    274


    Sun,


    79%1


    0


    The person was dressed in light-colored casual attire, arms crossed in front of his chest. "Mr. Sinir, are you really going to


    do this?"


    Ronin didn''t understand. His brow furrowed deeper, and his amber eyes shifted from Keh to the screen with a hint of


    concern.


    ''Has the poison spread to his nerves? Is his brain malfunctioning, or has he gone mad?'' Ronin thought.


    "Mr. Sinir, I advise you to reconsider. If you cooperate with treatment now, it might not be as bad as you think. If we proceed with surgery to remove it, there''s still a high chance of sess," Ronin said. "And then what? Should I gamble her happiness on a 20% chance?" Keh replied.


    Keh pushed his sses up the bridge of his nose with his long fingers, lifting his eyelids to look at Ronin through the lenses.


    Even if Keh won the gamble, there would be partial memory loss, or he could end up mentally disabled.


    He didn''t want to drag her down for the rest of her life.


    Keh truly wished he had never gone to Heloria to find her, or at least had known about his condition before searching for her.


    A bitter smile appeared at the corner of his mouth, and his jaw muscles trembled slightly.


    Ronin opened his mouth to say something but fell silent.


    Keh''s gaze turned back to the screen, quietly focusing on the image of Ophelia.


    ''I can''t let myself feel sorry for her,'' Keh thought, making a firm decision.


    Feeling the familiar sense of being watched, Ophelia got out of the car, scanned the surroundings, and precisely located a tiny hidden camera. She smiled at the camera.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Keh, you really don''t know me. I''ve never understood the concept of giving up," she said.


    Ophelia mmed the car door shut and tied her hair back. "If I don''t leave, are you going to make a move on me? Come on together."


    Ophelia tossed the gun from her waist into the car.


    They dared not shoot her, and she didn''t want to use the gun to harm anyone in Death Guild. Such a thing would be too costly.


    The group exchanged uncertain nces.


    Mnie also nced at the camera. Keh had ordered that no matter what, she couldn''t be allowed inside.


    "Alright, you said it," Mnie replied.


    Mnie had witnessed Ophelia''s abilities firsthand during theirst encounter, and she had been training intensely for over two months, preparing for the day they would face off. Without wasting words, Mnie took a sudden step forward and lunged at Ophelia.

 Jilted Bride 267

    Beneath the dense, lush forest, the sounds of a fight echoed.


    The ck SUVs had surrounded the military green Jeep, and a white figure darted between the ck-d men.


    Mnie, dressed in a ck bodysuit, was locked in a battle with Ophelia, their movements a blur of ck and white.


    Both used soft techniques to counter hard strikes, and for a moment, it was impossible to tell who had the upper hand as they grappled.


    As several men rushed in, Ophelia immediately dodged their attacks.


    Seizing the opportunity, Mniended a heavy strike on Ophelia''s shoulder.


    Ophelia staggered back, her body mming into the car, and a sharp pain shot through her waist.


    Seeing Mnie''s triumphant look, Ophelia''s lips curled into a faint smile.


    She quickly advanced,pletely changing her fighting style, forcing Mnie to retreat step by step.


    Her movements were precise. She reacted instantly when someone approached.


    One kick knocked down a man charging from behind, and she grabbed another man''s arm, twisting and using his momentum to flip over his back, her legs sweeping through the air, striking several others. "Ah!" The men staggered back, falling to the ground.


    Another group of people quickly rushed in, taking turns wearing down Ophelia''s strength.


    asionally, Mnie would unexpectedly charge in,nding a heavy blow on Ophelia.


    Minutes passed, and Ophelia''s forehead was covered in sweat.


    Those who had fallen around her werepletely helpless, unable to fight back.


    "Ms. Spencer, I advise you to give up. Even if you manage to beat these men, there are still hundreds of people in Death Guild. Can you really fight your way through them?" Mnie said.


    "What''s stopping me?" Ophelia replied with a smile, trying to steady her uneven breathing.


    Her body was numb, and the pain had be almost unbearable.


    She nced at the surveince camera. She was gambling that Keh wouldn''t be able to stand


    by


    and watch.


    But Ophelia knew she needed to end the fight quickly.


    With a push from her toes, Qpheliaunched herself at Mnie


    Clearly surprised, Mnie hadn''t expected Ophelia to have any energy left, nor for her speed to be so astonishing. Before Mnie could react, Ophelia was upon her, mming her palm into Mnie''s left shoulder with a force that felt like it could crush her bones. From there, every move was a surprise.


    Mnie froze, recognizing the very techniques she had used on Ophelia earlier. But Ophelia''s strength was much greater, easily double hers. 12:02 Sun, Dec 1


    3


    Ophelia retaliated swiftly, never allowing Mnie a moment to recover. The final blow, a spinning kick, sent Mnie crashing to the ground.


    Mniey on her back, one hand clutching her chest, the other propped weakly on the ground.


    Bighost, who had been watching from the back, hurried forward to help Mnie to her feet.


    Ophelia seized the moment, charging toward Death Guild.


    But as Mnie had predicted, with so many people inside, it didn''t take long before another group blocked her path.


    The men she had just knocked down had regained their footing and quickly surrounded her.


    "Ms. Spencer, you''re not getting in today," Mnie said, unwilling to admit it, but it was the truth.


    279%


    Ophelia''s skill was far superior to Mnie''s, by countless times, and even though Ophelia had held back earlier, Mnie wa not seriously injured.


    "I have to see Keh today," Ophelia said, her breathing heavy, but her resolve unwavering.


    She steadied herself, gritted her teeth, and surged forward, showing no mercy to anyone blocking her path.


    Ten minutes...


    Twenty minutes...


    Ophelia was getting closer to Death Guild. Her teeth ground together in pain, her mouth cut open, the taste of blood filling her mouth. Her lips had turned pale, and the blood from her mouth was a stark contrast against her flushed face. As Ophelia executed a shoulder throw, tossing a man to the ground, she stumbled, almost losing her bnce.


    The sounds around her faded, leaving only the harshness of her own breaths in her ears.


    Sweat had drenched her clothes and clung to her strands of hair, beads of sweat falling down her pale cheeks, hitting the ground.


    Mnie''s gaze toward her slowly shifted from disdain to shock, then to respect.


    She seemed to understand why Keh had chosen Ophelia.


    Bighost didn''t approach, remaining motionless like a statue.


    Gradually, everyone in her path froze, stunned by Ophelia''s unwavering determination.


    They had tried to block her, but now they stood still, allowing her to pass.


    The three high-tech buildings of Death Guild grewrger in Ophelia''s vision.


    She knew Keh was inside.


    But her legs felt like they were made of cotton, weak and unsteady. Every step she took drained all the remaining strength from her body. "Kennie..." Ophelia whispered, refusing to believe that Keh didn''t love her.


    Bang!


    Ophelia''s vision blurred, and she copsed to her knees, struggling to support herself with her arms.


    P


    79%


    She hadn''t rested properly for two nights, and after the long journey, she had hardly eaten anything, only drinking water.


    "Ms.... Mrs. Sinir!" Mnie moved forward to help her up, but Ophelia raised a hand to stop her.


    Ophelia braced herself on her knees, slowly forcing herself to stand, her eyes fixed firmly on one of the buildings.


    Ophelia closed her eyes for a moment, then continued walking in the direction of the building.


    She was almost at the entrance when her body swayed, her vision darkened, and she lost consciousness, copsing to the ground.


    In that instant, she was caught in a familiar embrace.


    Keh tightened his hold on Ophelia''s shoulders, his narrow eyes burning with anger, the corners of his eyes bloodshot, his jaw clenched tight, his face devoid of warmth.


    He lifted her in his arms, carrying her through the building, and made his way to a vi at the back.


    Ronin followed closely behind.


    Ronin''s usually handsome and gentle face was now furrowed with concern.


    ''What the fucking were they thinking?'' Keh wondered to himself.


    He ced her gently on the bed, and Ronin quickly checked on her. "She''s just exhausted, passed out from sheer fatigue. On top of that, she''s likely malnourished with low blood sugar. She probably hasn''t eaten properly in thest couple of days." Ronin felt a pang of sympathy as he watched the monitor, and he couldn''t help but wonder if Keh was turning into some sort of sadist.


    Keh looked like he might snap his own teeth.


    Frustrated and perplexed by the way they were hurting each other, Ronin was at a loss for words.


    "What are you nning to do?" Ronin asked though he wasn''t one to interfere in others'' affairs. Still, something about Ophelia''s resilience and determination had moved him.


    It was hard to imagine anyone who wouldn''t be moved.


    "Give her a nutrition injection and some sedatives to help her rest. When with you," Keh replied.


    you


    head back


    Denex tomorrow, take her


    His gaze never left Ophelia, lying still on the bed. His face was calm, but his heart churned with bitter emotions.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    He gently smoothed her tangled hair, his fingertip lightly brushing her cheek, unwilling to blink, as if afraid to miss even a moment of her presence.


    "Are you not worried she''ll wake up halfway and jump on a ne toe after you?" Ronin asked.


    "Didn''t Eric wake up? Take him with you. With Eric around, she won''t." Keh said.


    -Keh truly knew her well.


    Ronin sighed again. "So, what are you going to do?"


    ''Is Keh just waiting for death?'' Ronin thought.


    After a brief silence, Keh spoke again. "Once I regain my memories, I''ll have him take over Death Guild. I only have one


    3


    request. No matter what, protect Ophelia at all costs."


    Ronin furrowed his brows. "And you?"


    "I promised Ivy I''d go back," Keh said.


    "Go back? Have you thought this through?" Ronin''s voice rose by a notch.


    Keh''s silence was the best answer.


    Ivy had promised Keh that she would no longer harm Ophelia.


    Keh had already secured the Sinir Group and the Huxley family, paving the way for Ophelia.


    0

 Jilted Bride 268

    The rumbling noise around was giving Ophelia a headache. She slept so deeply that she struggled to distinguish between dreams and reality. She dreamed of her past life.


    Began with she married with Keh, and the first time she saw him in a wheelchair, the first time she was scared by his ruthless ways, the first time he pinned her against the wall for a forceful kiss, and the first time they had a passionate encounter...


    Keh was very possessive; even seeing her smile at another man was uneptable to him.


    Six months after moving to Rosewood Manor, her rtionship with Keh Sinir was stillpletely unfamiliar.


    She could feel that he was always watching her, but he never showed it, and she never spoke to him. Every time she tried to push him away, he never actually left.


    Since she moved to Rosewood Manor, all she thought about was divorce, not knowing they hadn''t even got their marriage license yet.


    And then, she couldn''t quite recall why Keh came to agree to the divorce and let her go. All she remembered was that for a long time, she didn''t see him at Rosewood Manor again.


    Then, she finally received the "divorce agreement" she had been longing for.


    Her head hurt, feeling like it was splitting. Her eardrums were ufortable too. She thought, ''Haven''t I gone to find Keh? Where is he?'' She clearly remembered seeing Keh right before she fainted.


    "Ken... Keh...e out..." Ophelia murmured softly, her brow furrowed and her breathing bing rapid.


    Suddenly, Ophelia''s eyelids fluttered open, her longshes trembling slightly. Her mind was foggy, the ringing in her ears unbearable.


    Scanning the unfamiliar surroundings, she abruptly sat up on the bed, looking around.


    She thought, ''Where am I?'' It seemed like she was on a ne.


    The lighting was dim, the blinds were drawn, and shey in a bed that resembled a space pod. She pulled back the blinds, revealing the darkness outside.


    She


    got up and saw a person in the seat next to her. A man was was sleeping.


    Ophelia took a closer look; this person was... If


    resting with his hand on his forehead, eyes closed, as if heThis content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    She thought, ''How long have I been asleen "asn''t Ronin, it was Adams, since they shared the same face. But judging by


    the attire, it was most likely Ronin.


    hich flight is this? And where is Keh?''


    She clearly remembered seeing him before she passed out. She was eager to know what was going on now.


    "Ophelia..." A young, slightly inexperienced voice sounded beside her, and she realized she hadn''t noticed anyone else there.


    She looked up to see a


    young handsome


    standing. There was a hint of nervousness and unease in his eyes.


    "Scott? You''re awake..." Ophelia''s thoughts were still jumbled, and her mind was working slowly. Her temples pulsed slightly. Scott pressed his lips together, ran his hand through his hair, and a look of unfamiliarity shed in his eyes. Hearing the voices, the man who had been sleeping with his head on his hand also opened his


    his amber eyes,


    eyes


    looked a


    12:03 Sun, Dec 1 ti.


    bit groggy.


    Ronin looked surprised to see Ophelia and nced down at his watch.


    Clearly, he didn''t expect her to wake up so early. The amount of medicine given should have kept her asleep until they reached Denex.


    "Dr. West." Ophelia called out when she noticed him zoning out.


    Ronin quickly exined, "He just woke up recently. His symptoms are simr to Noah''s; he can''t remember much, not even who he is."


    Ophelia frowned and asked, "Then how does he know I''m Ophelia?"


    "It''s hard to say. Maybe it''s a reflex, or it could be that you mean a lot to him, so he remembers you." Actually, he had informed Scott beforehand.


    The aim was to keep Ophelia in front of him from getting off the ne just to fly straight back to Mgia.


    "He just woke up and needs his family around." Ronin added.


    Ophelia looked at Scott. The boy was tall and thin, with a pointed chin. Seeing him, she couldn''t help but feel a guilty.


    "Are you... Ophelia?" Scott asked, nervously clutching the hem of his shirt.


    He seemed like a young teenager, but the panic in his eyes was like a child left without an adult.


    Ophelia nodded, gave a small smile, and walked over. "It''s good you''re awake. From now on, I''ll take care of you." Scott nodded.


    After calming Scott, Ophelia turned her head, her sharp gazending on Ronin. "Dr. West, what''s really going on with Keh?"


    Ophelia''s question surprised Ronin. As he met her gaze, he felt a bit uneasy. He thought, ''Why does this damn aura remind me so much of Keh? No, to be precise, it is like being questioned by my mom.


    He swallowed nervously, looked away from Ophelia, and coughed lightly to cover his difort. "Why do you ask that?" By now, Ophelia hadposed herself, her mind clear, unlike earlier, and she had made sense of many things.


    She initially thought Keh was going to do something risky without telling her, but when they stormed into the guild, she saw many key members were there.


    So either Keh was in some trouble, or he was preparing to do something on his own.


    Ronin said, "Kiddo, you know Keh has been quite thedies man abroad these years..."


    Ophelia gave a soft chuckle. Her smile was dazzling, but there was no warmth in her bright eyes. This sharp contrast struck a nerve in Ronin.


    For a moment, it reminded him of his little sister who had been killed by enemies when she was just three.


    Especially Ophelia''s eyes, clear and innocent like a fawn''s, which were simr to his sister''s big, brown grape-like eyes-the same brown eyes that he and Noah inherited from their father, Xander West. Seeing Ronin''s strange gaze, Ophelia furrowed her brow even deeper. "Do you think I''d believe that? Never mind, if Keh told you not to tell me, I won''t trouble you."


    After Ophelia finished speaking, she sat down next to Scott.


    {? $ # 78%#


    Ronin didn''t expect herto be so easygoing, not asking anything, just sitting back down. He quietly breathed a sigh of relief.


    The whole ne had only the three of them, and the interior was luxurious.


    Ophelia looked at Scott next to her with a sense of relief and guilt.


    The nended at Denex International Airport. Ophelia checked the time; it had already been a day and a half since she went to Mgia.


    All the way until the nended, Ophelia didn''t mention Keh again. Her expression was nk.


    She showed indifference to Ronin too, but kept holding Scott''s hand. Like an older sister, she took care of Scott beside her.


    Scott looked at everything with a hint of curiosity. Ophelia told him, "This is Denex in Heloria, where you''ve lived since you were a kid. Do you remember it?" Scott shook his head. Ophelia thought, ''He doesn''t remember any of this?''


    Ronin followed behind the two of them and said, "Right now, he doesn''t know anything, and his physical abilities have decreased. While getting back to a normal life, he needs to exercise more." He quietly moved closer to Ophelia and whispered while Scott was looking around. "It''s like he''s been reset, a fre


    Ronin thought, ''Ophelia should understand what I mean, right?"

 Jilted Bride 269

    Ophelia thought, ''A fresh start?''


    "It means we can retell him everything. If there are things from the past we don''t want him to remember, he doesn''t have to." Ronin''s voice was low, only audible to them. Ophelia said, "Isn''t there a way to restore memories now?"


    Ronin was surprised. "You know about that?"


    "Don''t youe back to help Noah regain his memories?"


    Ronin was surprised and thought, ''Is there anything she doesn''t know?''


    "Yes, there is indeed a way to restore it, but..." He nced at the innocent little kid and thought that it was just fine for Scott to be like this.


    If the memories returned and some things better left unknown came to light, it might not just bring unnecessary worries but could also damage their rtionship.


    Ophelia took a deep breath and said, "I won''t try to hide what I''ve done, and he has the right to know."


    The day he remembered everything, she would be honest with him. Whether he forgave her or how he chose to handle their rtionship was entirely up to him. All she wanted was peace of mind.


    She nned to leave him the shares of Hastingspanies she had auctioned before, along with the family''s old house.


    "So, Dr. West, if possible, once Noah''s memory is fully recovered, I''d like and I''ll pay you."


    "There''s no need to be so formal about it. As long as you''re sure about it."


    you


    to work


    on Scott too.


    Just calcte the costs,


    He had actually been researching this for years, not just for Noah but for other reasons too. It was after nearly three years of clinical trials that they achieved significant results. Ronin gave somest instructions before they parted ways at the airport.


    After watching Ophelia get in the car, Ronin let out a long sigh and dialed the guild''s internal line, not getting a chance to start his report.


    A deep voice from the other side already responded, "I know."


    Ronin nced around, not too curious about how Keh on the other side knew. The with cameras, so he was likely keeping a constant watch on the screen, guild could break into any ce guild/could


    He couldn''t help but sigh again. "So, should I head back to Waston?"


    "Yep."


    ***


    Meanwhile, Ophelia had just gotten into the car and made a call Fortunately, she still had all her belongings with her.


    The phone on the other end was turned off, just as she expected


    She then sent a voice message to Charles, asking him to book a fight back to Denex for Eric once his injuries were healed. 12:03 Sun, Dec 1


    78%0


    "Ophelia, where are we going?" Scott asked, gazing out the window. Even though it seemed familiar, his eyes showed a hint of unease.


    Ophelia thought for a moment. Right now, Scott needed someone to take care of him. His mind was like a child''s, so she couldn''t stray too far from him. She thought, ''So, let''s just stay at Rosewood Manor.'' She called Lisa to prepare a room for him.


    Lisa asked, "Mr. Sinir, weren''t you and Mr. Sinir nning to go on vacation for a week? Why are you back early?"


    "Well..." She wasn''t sure how to exin it to Lisa. She brushed it off with a few words and hung up.


    "Ophelia, am I causing you trouble?" Scott looked at the unfamiliar girl in front of him, who didn''t even resemble him.


    Ophelia smiled and gently patted his head. "No worries. Just stay with me without any concern. We''ll go shopping for some everyday necessities soon." Scott replied, "Okay." Right now, he was one of the few family members she had.


    The two went to the nearest mall, where Ophelia picked out some sportswear for him. "From now on, we''ll go jogging together every morning." "Sure." Scott agreed readily; his temperament was as pleasant as ever.


    Ophelia also bought him a phone, storing her number in it. "If anything happens, you must call me."


    "Sure."


    *****


    The taxi stopped at the foot of Rosewood Manor, Ophelia paid the fare, picked up their bags, and led Scott to the vi halfway up the hill.


    It was nighttime in Denex, and Ophelia walked slowly, remembering how Keh had once carried her home at a rxed pace.


    He walked so slowly that she almost fell asleep. He seemed to say something at that time, but she couldn''t hear it clearly. Standing at the entrance of Rosewood Manor, the light pink hyacinths swayed gently in the breeze.


    She was momentarily entranced, as if she had returned to a year ago when she first stepped into Rosewood Manor after being reborn. Back then, she was all alone, her heart filled with thoughts of Keh who had died for love. Now, it felt as if she had returned to being alone once more.


    "Ophelia, what''s wrong? Your house is so big! Is everything okay with your family? Why aren''t you going inside?" Scott''s voice snapped her back from her thoughts.


    "No, let''s go." She hadn''t had a family for a long time.


    She led Scott into the vi. Lisa had been waiting by the door. She saw Opheliae back with someone, but the ones who had left with her weren''t with her.


    She thought, ''Mr. Sinir isn''t here, and neither are Eric and Ray, Mrs. Sinir''s expression doesn''t look right either. What is going on?''


    Lisa''s smile faded a bit. "Mrs. Sinir, who is this..."


    Ophelia replied, "My brother, Scott Hastings."


    78%


    "Hello, Mr. Hastings. Lisa greeted him. Scott seemed unfamiliar with the title and, like a child, took a step behind Ophelia.


    "Is the room ready? I''ll take him upstairs first." Ophelia didn''t mention Keh at all.


    Lisa nodded and led them to the second-floor bedroom.


    Even though Scott had lost his memory, he still had basic life knowledge, and he remembered everything Ophelia told him.


    Ophelia suggested, "Why don''t you take a shower? The new clothes we just bought are in the bag. Change and thene down for dinner."Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Scott nodded obediently. Ophelia closed the door behind him as he absentmindedly scratched his head.


    Ophelia returned to her room, took a shower, and changed into clean clothes.


    She stood in front of the elegant floor-to-ceiling window, overlooking a sea of sparkling city lights, like a gxy below her. In the courtyard, two rows of lush roses swayed softly in the wind, dropping a few pink petals-a truly romantic scene. By the time she went downstairs, the table was already covered with food.


    Having lived with Ophelia for a year, Lisa knew her quite well. She noticed something was wrong with Ophelia''s expression the moment she walked in. Something must have happened.


    Lisa asked, "Mrs. Sinir, why didn''t youe back with Mr. Sinir?"


    "Oh, there''s some work in Mgia that Keh has to deal with. Ophelia replied casually, not wanting to make anyone worry about her.


    "Mrs. Sinir, are you upset that Mr. Sinir didn''t stay until the vacation ended?"


    "No, I''m just really tired from the long flight, and a bit hungry too," she said as she walked over and sat down at the dining table.


    Lisa didn''t say anything more and stood by her side, ready to serve her when the time came.


    While waiting for Scott toe down for dinner, Ophelia received a phone call. The caller ID showed the location as Mgia.

 Jilted Bride 270

    Ophelia picked up the call, and a man''s husky voice, rough from smoking, came through. "Mrs. Sinir..."


    It was Ray calling, and she wasn''t surprised at all.


    "How are you doing?" When she burst into the guild that day, Ray was nowhere in sight among everyone, he must have been severely punished by Keh.


    Ray was surprised, not expecting Ophelia''s first words to care about him. He did suffer some minor injuries, but that was nothingpared to Eric. "Mrs. Sinir, Eric he..."


    "He''s recovering on the ind, no need to worry." Following Keh was always risky; he was as sharp as a leopard. She shouldn''t have let them take such risks.


    Ray on the other end of the phone was silent for a moment.


    "Is there anything else?" Ophelia asked coldly.


    Ray felt relieved and then realized Ophelia sounded different from usual. "Mrs. Sinir, did something happen between you and Mr. Sinir? I''m at the guild now, and do you need my help with anything?"


    He had heard about Ophelia entering the guild alone that day, but he was being punished and couldn''te out. Over the time spent with her, he gradually forgot he was Keh''s man.


    Ophelia said, "Tell Keh that even if it''s a breakup, it should be talked about face-to-face. I''ll wait for him at the city hall entrance on June 1."


    Lisa stood nearby, and at the mention of "breakup," a sh of panic crossed her eyes.


    After Ophelia hung up the phone, she quickly asked, "Mrs. Sinir, what happened between you and Mr. Sinir? How did a nice vacation lead to a breakup? Did you have a disagreement?" She was curious too. She thought, ''What has happened to us? What on earth is wrong with this man?


    ''No wonder he left the corporation for me to manage. Is this his way of paving the way for me? Is his self-righteous behavior really for my own good? I don''t need this!''


    Lisa was worried, but seeing Ophelia''s expression, she knew the problem wasn''t with her. She thought, ''Mr. Sinir, what are you doing? You''re so irresponsible.


    Scott came downstairs wearing a gray tracksuit and sat next to Ophelia. Lisa stepped aside without asking any more questions.


    After dinner, Ophelia and Scott watched TV for a while.


    "Ophelia, are you feeling down?" Scott asked, not really focusing on the TV. "If anyone''s giving you trouble, I''ll stand up for you." Ophelia''s gloomy mood was brightened by his words.


    She ruffled Scott''s freshly washed, fluffy hair, remembering how he used to protect her when they were at the Hastings family.


    She never quite understood why the entire Hastings family treated her like an outsider, except for Scott, who truly saw her as his sister. "Ophelia, do you think I''m childish? Like I''m just a kid? I''ve already talked to the doctor, and I''m 18 this year. You''re my only


    family now, and I want you to be happy." Scott spoke sincerely; his eyes were genuine.


    "Okay." Ophelia agreed, her bright eyes smiling.


    3


    Over the weekend, she took Scott to do all sorts of sports, ying basketball and ser. On the field, he was sweating heavily, full of energy and sunshine. Except for the memory loss, he seemed just like any normal person.


    She remembered a few months ago when he had copsed, his face pale, not breathing.


    78%1


    At that time, she really thought she''d lost Scott. She regretted her previous coldness, regretted being so focused on revenge that she ignored him.


    Luckily, now she had the chance to make up for it. Sometimes, it was only after losing someone that one truly appreciated them.


    "Ophelia! Have I gotten better?" Scott''s sweat dripped down his face and onto the front of his tank top. On his skin, faint muscle lines were beginning to show.


    Ophelia handed him a bottle of water, her eyebrows slightly raised. "Yeah, you''re doing better than yesterday."


    Scott beamed at the praise, revealing a row of white teeth, his eyes curving into crescents beneath his sharp eyebrows.


    It was Monday. Ophelia hired a tutor for Scott to review what he had learned before. Recovering his memory might take a long time; she needed to help him return to normal life as soon as possible.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    And she had to continue with her own life as well. She left the house wearing a smart dark brown zer, her hair neatly tied back in a low ponytail. Her face was delicately made up, showing no signs of tiredness. She arrived at SN Estate, where she noticed two new faces, likely people Keh had arranged to bring in.


    The train station project officially began, and everyone was busy with their tasks.


    In the next couple of days, she needed to hire more staff because the Gloomhaven Library was about to start the bidding process. It was crucial toplete a feasibility report quickly Ophelia assigned the tasks, greeted Cody and the others, and then left.


    She had just stepped out of thepany and was reaching downstairs. There, parked in front of her ck SUV, was a ck Rolls-Royce Phantom.


    As the rear window rolled down, a sharply defined face emerged-deep blue eyes, captivating yet enigmatic, with a slight curve to his lips and a pronounced cleft in his chin.


    Seeing him made Ophelia furrow her brow. She thought, ''Whenever he''s around, trouble is sure to follow.''


    The man exited the car, buttoned his suit jacket, and positioned himself in front of her car. "Long time no see, my wildcat."


    Hearing that low, provocatively charged voice made Ophelia''s hair stand on end. "It''s been a while, Jonathan. Did you manage to fix that base I blew upst time so quickly?"

 Jilted Bride 271

    Jonathan froze momentarily, took a deep breath, but the smile ever faded from his face. "Still such a sharp tongue, but... I like it. His face gradually moved closer.


    Ophelia furrowed her brows and stepped back. Every time she met Jonathan, she felt entirely ufortable.


    Jonathan stared into Ophelia''s deep brown eyes. Those eyes, even without any emotion, were like hooks that captured one''s soul. His heartbeat sped up involuntarily; this feeling was addictive. Jonathan politely opened the car door and gestured as an invitation. "It''s evening now and, do you want to grab a quick meal


    with me?"


    "No chance. Just seeing you makes me want to puke."


    Ophelia thought, ''Does something get into this guy? Does he really want to have dinner with me? Is this some kind of trap?" She already had ns with Chloe for tonight.


    Just as Ophelia was about to get past him, two bodyguards in ck blocked her way.


    "Two bodyguards think they can stop me? Looks like I didn''t teach them a good enough lessonst time." Ophelia thought as a sh of determination passed through her eyes. Jonathan looked at her with a slight smile. "Your brother ys basketball really well. We just yed together this afternoon."


    Something snapped in Ophelia, and the calm in her eyes shattered. Scott did say he was going to y basketball this afternoon.


    She clenched her fists, looking like a little beast ready to pounce. "Jonathan! What on earth are you trying to do?" "Get in the car ande with me."


    Ophelia stared at his shameless face, grinding her teeth in anger. "Give me the address, and I''ll drive myself there."


    "I''ll have someone drive your car there, just get in." Jonathan''s voice was gentle, but there was a clear firmness in his words.


    Ophelia nced at Jonathan as he opened the car door. Instead of getting in, she walked around the car and got in from the other side by herself.


    Jonathan chuckled softly, and thought, ''Such a little wildcat. How can she also be a bit cute?''


    He got into the car, and as it started, Ophelia pressed against her door, as if there was a river between them.


    "Do you really dislike me so much?" Jonathan''s icy blue eyes fixed on Ophelia beside him, never before realizing how spacious the car''s interior felt.


    Ophelia couldn''t be bothered to speak with such a despicable person who only knew how to threaten others.


    "Do you know how many girls are chasing after me? Am I really that inferior to Keh? You attempted to kill mest time, and I didn''t even make an issue out of it."


    In that tone, he seemed to say, "You should be grateful." Ophelia thought, ''This guy is not only obsessed with romance but also full of himself. How disgusting he is!'' She couldn''t think of any word other than disgusting to describe him.


    The roads were somewhat congested at this time, and after nearly an hour, they gradually left the city.


    Ophelia asked, "Weren''t we just going for a simple meal?" They were already far from the city.


    OK 81%


    "Getting anxious? How could the dinner I nned for you be anything but exceptional?" Jonathan''s way of speaking always made Ophelia feel distinctly ufortable. "Move closer." Jonathan ordered in amanding tone. Ophelia remained unfazed, struggling to hide the disdain gleaming in her eyes.


    "Other than my sister, no one has ever looked down on me this much."


    "Even your sister finds you annoying. Don''t you get the hint?" Ophelia snapped back. His keeping mentioning his sister made Ophelia suspect that he might have a sisterplex. Jonathan heard what she said, and instead of getting angry, he gave a wide smile. It had been a long time since anyone had spoken to him like that. He really seemed to enjoy abuse.


    It wasn''t long before the car stopped by the beach, where a massive yacht was docked. Her phone rang just as the car halted -it was Chloe. She answered the call, bringing the phone to her ear. Jonathan gave her a casual nce, his eyes carrying a wicked charm. "We''re here."


    The bodyguard opened the car door for them, and Ophelia stepped out, taking a quick look at her surroundings. She thought, ''What a godforsaken ce.''


    "Chloe/l can''te over to your ce tonight. I have some matters to attend to here. Let''s reschedule for another day." Her voice was deliberately lowered.


    The sound of waves came through the receiver to Chloe. Gripping her phone tighter, she asked, "Who are you with?"


    Ophelia nced at Jonathan, saying, "With some crazy person, don''t worry about it." As she spoke, she followed Jonathan onto the yacht, her eyes searching for Scott.


    At that moment, Scott''s call came in, and Ophelia answered it immediately. Scott''s voice came from the other end, "Ophelia, I''m home. When are youing back?" "You... you came home?" Ophelia''s eyebrows furrowed even more.


    A few secondster, she suddenly understood what was happening. She had inadvertently exposed her vulnerability right in front of Jonathan.


    From beginning to end, Jonathan never mentioned he had kidnapped Scott. She was so worried that she got confused and even forgot to call Scott to confirm. She could almost cry over how foolish she was. "I''ll be backter. Have dinner by yourself and get to bed early." Scott agreed on the other end, and Ophelia hung up the phone, ready to get off the yacht immediately, but she was stopped by a few bodyguards. "Jonathan, what exactly do you n to do?" She didn''t want to have dinner with someone like him. His invitation definitely had another motive.


    Since Scott wasn''t there, she didn''t have much to worry about. She nced at her car and gauged the distance.


    As she surveyed the situation and the people around, she was about to make a move when Jonathan behind her spoke softly, "Thest bet, we haven''t settled it yet."


    Ophelia thought, ''Is this guy asking for trouble? After all that, hasn''t the winner been decided yet?''


    Jonathan said, "I''ve already discovered your vulnerable spot. I can have my men grab that boy anytime, but it wouldn''t be good if he got hurt on the way."Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ophelia thought of calling-bim despicable, but she had no one to me but herself. She had been fuzzy-headed these past few days. She truly wasn''t cautious at all, allowing this man to seed so easily. Jonathan said, "Just when you got in the car earlier, I had my people notify Keh. Let''s see if he''ll give up part of his trade routes for you."


    "But he hasn''t replied to me yet. So why don''t you keep mepany while we wait? Meanwhile, we can get to know each other better," Jonathan said as he gradually leaned in, a smug smile on his face. Ophelia wanted to retort but swallowed her words. She lowered her gaze, feeling a bit of hesitation, thinking about going with the flow. She wanted to see if Keh woulde to her aid like he didst time. Jonathan was a little surprised when she didn''t argue back. He thought, ''Does she really think she could escape? It isn''t going to be so easy this time.''


    "Please, don''t let good food go to waste." The tempting aroma of grilledmb wafted from the deck ahead.


    On the grill was a wholemb, sizzling and dripping with oil, and the sea breeze carried its enticing scent.


    Ophelia asked, "Are you implying I''m just amb waiting to be ughtered?"


    Jonathan chuckled softly, his voice smooth but teasing, giving an impression of insincerity. "Of course not, you''re nomb. You''re clearly a wolf."

 Jilted Bride 272

    The cruise ship sailed slowly across the sea, the surroundings aglow with lights, while the sea itselfy inplete darkness.


    Ophelia sat in a white wicker chair on the deck, her hands resting on the armrests, giving off a vacation vibe. She gazed into the endless night and the sparsely star-filled sky. The night seemed to merge with the sea, and being in such a ce made her feel especially lonely.


    Jonathan took off his jacket, contemting whether to ce it over her shoulders, but decided against it to avoid making a fool of himself. Mid-action, he paused and just tossed the jacket to her. "The wind''s pretty strong out here, and I don''t have any cold medicine with me."


    Ophelia nced at the jacket that was thrown at her, catching a whiff of the light cologne scent. Although it wasn''t unpleasant, her eyes showed disgust.


    Keh never wore cologne, but he naturally had a crisp and unique scent. She tossed Jonathan''s jacket onto a nearby chair as if it were something dirty.


    Jonathan felt a peculiar relief, surprisingly pleased that she hadn''t thrown it into the sea.


    The sea breeze was cool, blowing a few strands of hair across Ophelia''s forehead. She tucked them behind her ear.


    Jonathan was wearing a light blue shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. He walked to the grill, drew a knife from his waist, and sliced a piece from the roastedmb.


    He wrapped the bone in a napkin and handed it to Ophelia. "Have a try." His tone was like he was feeding a kitten or puppy.


    Since leaving Hastings family, she hadn''t heard that tone for a long time. She nced coldly over her shoulder before turning her gaze back to the sea.


    Jonathan nced at his wristwatch. "It''s been two hours and Keh still hasn''t gotten back to me. Don''t let it stop you from eating something. Otherwise, you might not have the strength to runter if you want to." He ced a leg ofmb onto Ophelia''s te. "Rx, there''s no poison."


    "Knife." Ophelia said, reaching out her hand. She couldn''t just eat such a big piece like that.


    Jonathan watched her for a moment, a smirk forming at the edge of his lips, and casually instructed, "Jim, bring Ms. Spencer some cutlery."


    "Yes, Mr. Davidson." A short man in his twenties brought over a knife and fork.


    Ophelia was getting hungry, and even if she might have to fight with someone soon, she''d need strength for that. These bodyguards wouldn''t go easy on her like those people from the guild.


    The smell of the ocean was overpowering, and themb hadn''t been specially prepared. She found it a bit tough to enjoy, and after a few bites, she wasn''t hungry anymore.


    Time trickled by. The temperature over the sea was dropping, and her cell phone had no signal.


    "If you''re cold, go inside. Jonathan suggested, giving her a look.


    "Do you n to keep drifting on the sea? Are you scared if we dock, I''ll try to escape?" Ophelia raised her eyebrow.


    A few pieces of grilledmb chops, smelling wonderful, were ced on the te in front of her. Jonathan sat down across


    The cruise ship sailed slowly across the sea, the surroundings aglow with lights, while the sea itselfy inplete darkness.


    Ophelia sat in a white wicker chair on the deck, her hands resting on the armrests, giving off a vacation vibe. She gazed into the endless night and the sparsely star-filled sky. The night seemed to merge with the sea, and being in such a ce made her feel especially lonely.


    Jonathan took off his jacket, contemting whether to ce it over her shoulders, but decided against it to avoid making a fool of himself.


    Mid-action, he paused and just tossed the jacket to her. "The wit''s pretty strong out here, and I don''t have any cold medicine with me."


    Ophelia nced at the jacket that was thrown at her, catching a whiff of the light cologne scent. Although it wasn''t unpleasant, her eyes showed disgust.


    Keh never wore cologne, but he naturally had a crisp and unique scent. She tossed Jonathan''s jacket onto a nearby chair as if it were something dirty.


    Jonathan felt a peculiar relief, surprisingly pleased that she hadn''t thrown it into the sea.


    The sea breeze was cool, blowing a few strands of hair across Ophelia''s forehead. She tucked them behind her ear.


    Jonathan was wearing a light blue shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. He walked to the grill, drew a knife from his waist, and sliced a piece from the roastedmb.


    He wrapped the bone in a napkin and handed it to Ophelia. "Have a try." His tone was like he was feeding a kitten or puppy.


    Since leaving Hastings family, she hadn''t heard that tone for a long time. She nced coldly over her shoulder before turning her gaze back to the sea.


    Jonathan nced at his wristwatch. "It''s been two hours and Keh still hasn''t gotten back to me. Don''t let it stop you from eating something. Otherwise, you might not have the strength to runter if you want to." He ced a leg ofmb onto Ophelia''s te. "Rx, there''s no poison."


    "Knife." Ophelia said, reaching out her hand. She couldn''t just eat such a big piece like that.


    Jonathan watched her for a moment, a smirk forming at the edge of his lips, and casually instructed, "Jim, bring Ms. Spencer some cutlery."


    "Yes, Mr. Davidson." A short man in his twenties brought over a knife and fork.


    Ophelia was getting hungry, and even if she might have to fight with someone soon, she''d need strength for that. These bodyguards wouldn''t go easy on her like those people from the guild.


    The smell of the ocean was overpowering, and themb hadn''t been specially prepared. She found it a bit tough to enjoy, and after a few bites, she wasn''t hungry anymore.


    Time trickled by. The temperature over the sea was dropping, and her cell phone had no signal.


    "If you''re cold, go inside." Jonathan suggested, giving her a look.


    "Do you n to keep drifting on the sea? Are you scared if we dock, I''ll try to escape?" Ophelia raised her eyebrow.


    A few pieces of grilledmb chops, smelling wonderful, were ced on the te in front of her. Jonathan sat down across


    J


    TUZU Mon, De Chapter 272


    from her.


    "Yes, I''m worried you''ll escape. Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. You wild little cat are really hard to tame! Jonathan said, tilting his head to look at her, calmly wiping his military knife with a handkerchief. Ophelia was done with idle chat, having no patience left. "What if Keh ignores your threat or doesn''t care about me at all? What''s your next move? Kill me or toss me into the sea?"


    Jonathan asked, "How could I ever kill you? However, I''m a bit curious. Why hasn''t Keh done anything this time? I rememberst time, there was already a helicopter hovering over my base by now."


    His smile grew more pronounced. "Or is your rtionship hitting a rough patch? It''s been ages, and there''s still no news from Keh. Does this mean he''s done with you? Why note with me? Whatever Keh can offer, I can give you more."


    Ophelia looked at the vast ocean and sneered. "Being with me every day, aren''t you worried you''ll end up dead without even knowing how it happened?"


    Jonathan put away the knife and leaned slightly forward, a yful glint in his icy-blue eyes. "Should I take that to mean you''re worried about me?" His voice was like a snake''s hiss, making one''s skin crawl.


    Just then, his subordinate, Jim, approached with a satellite phone. "Mr. Davidson, Mr. Sinir wants to speak with you."


    Ophelia''s calm quickly turned to nervousness. She swallowed hard, her breath caught in her chest, yet her face remained impassive.


    Jonathan took the call, his eyes fixed on Ophelia in front of him.


    With the call on speakerphone, a deep, stern voice came from the other end, "Let her go." It was that familiar voice.


    Ophelia''s hands clenched unconsciously, as she stole a nce and quickly looked away.


    "Let her go? Mr. Sinir must be joking, right? Or are you considering giving up some of your shipping routes?" Jonathan crossed his legs and leaned back in his chair, looking rxed.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Keh said, "You''re overthinking it. I''m just giving you a reminder. The person with you is no threat to me at the momen There''s no need for all this trouble."


    "Are you sure? Just a moment ago, you were telling me to let her go."


    The voice on the other end stayed cold. "Telling you to let them go is giving you a chance. I''ll report it to the police and handle it from there, Whether you actually let her go is none of my concern." "Does Mr. Sinir honestly not care? Well then, how about letting me


    have your woman?"


    "Whatever." The voice on the other end was cold and indifferent, like he was giving away something insignificant.


    Every word was as sharp as the cold sea breeze, cutting into Ophelia''s heart.


    With the call still ongoing, Jonathan raised an eyebrow, shrugged, and chuckled softly as he looked at Ophelia. "Has your man left you? Maybe it''s time to think abouting into my arms?" With that, the call ended with a series of beeps, making it seem like there truly was nothing connecting Keh anymore


    Jonathan looked at Ophelia standing in front of him. Her beautiful eyes sparkled under the light, but they held a dead silence like dark sea water. Her innocent face was calm and expressionless.


    A sea breeze swept through, tangling her chaotic hair, shrouding her in an unavoidable mncholy. This sense of brokenness tightened Jonathan''s heart, making his brow twitch involuntarily.


    from her.


    "Yes, I''m worried you''ll escape, Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. You wild little cat are really hard to tame!" Jonathan said, tilting his head to look at her, calmly wiping his military knife with a handkerchief. Ophelia was done with idle chat, having no patience left. "What Keh ignores your threat or doesn''t care about me at all? What''s your next move? Kill me or toss me into the sea?"


    Jonathan asked, "How could I ever kill you? However, I''m a bit cirious. Why hasn''t Keh done anything this time? I rememberst time, there was already a helicopter hovering over my base by now."


    His smile grew more pronounced. "Or is your rtionship hitting a rough patch? It''s been ages, and there''s still no news from Keh. Does this mean he''s done with you? Why note with me? Whatever Keh can offer, I can give you more." Ophelia looked at the vast ocean and sneered. "Being with me every day, aren''t you worried you''ll end up dead without even knowing how it happened?"


    Jonathan put away the knife and leaned slightly forward, a yful glint in his icy-blue eyes. "Should I take that to mean you''re worried about me?" His voice was like a snake''s hiss, making one''s skin crawl.


    Just then, his subordinate, Jim, approached with a satellite phone. "Mr. Davidson, Mr. Sinir wants to speak with you."


    Ophelia''s calm quickly turned to nervousness. She swallowed hard, her breath caught in her chest, yet her face remained impassive.


    Jonathan took the call, his eyes fixed on Ophelia in front of him.


    With the call on speakerphone, a deep, stern voice came from the other end, "Let her go." It was that familiar voice. Ophelia''s hands clenched unconsciously, as she stole a nce and quickly looked away. "Let her go? Mr. Sinir must be joking, right? Or are you considering giving up some of your shipping routes?" Jonathan crossed his legs and leaned back in his chair, looking rxed. Keh said, "You''re overthinking it. I''m just giving you a reminder. The person with you is no threat to me at the moment. There''s no need for all this trouble."


    "Are you sure? Just a moment ago, you were telling me to let her go."


    The voice on the other end stayed cold. "Telling you to let them go is giving you a chance. I''ll report it to the police and handle it from there, Whether you actually let her go is none of my concern." have "Does Mr. Sinir honestly not care? Well then, how about letting me


    your woman?"


    "Whatever." The voice on the other end was cold and indifferent like he was giving away something insignificant.


    Every word was as sharp as the cold sea breeze, cutting into Ophelia''s heart.


    With the call still ongoing, Jonathan raised an eyebrow, shrugged, and chuckled softly as he looked at Ophelia. "Has your man left you? Maybe it''s time to think abouting into my arms?" With that, the call ended with a series of beeps, making it seem like there truly was nothing connecting Keh anymore.


    Jonathan looked at Ophelia standing in front of him. Her beautiful eyes sparkled under the light, but they held a dead silence like dark sea water. Her innocent face was calm and expressionless.


    A sea breeze swept through, tangling her chaotic hair, shrouding her in an unavoidable mncholy. This sense of brokenness tightened Jonathan''s heart, making his brow twitch involuntarily. 10:21 Mon, Dec 2


    He had never seen her like this before and didn''t know what to


    Ophelia remained silent, turned her head and locked eyes with his chin.


    Facing her gaze, Jonathan couldn''t utter a word, feeling as if hi


    Momentster, he began to sense the murderous intent in her reverse grip and kicked the table over. Completely catching hir


    Ophelia''s every move was lethal and decisive, as if venting her cut his shirt within three moves.


    10:21/ Mon, Dec 2 & G


    He had never seen her like this before and didn''t know what to say.


    Ophelia remained silent, turned her head and locked eyes with him, looked at his captivating face and the deep dimple on


    his chin


    Facing her gaze, Jonathan couldn''t utter a word, feeling as if his heart was being squeezed.


    Momentster, he began to sense the murderous intent in her eyes. In a split second, Ophelia grabbed a dinner knife with a reverse grip and kicked the table over. Completely catching him off guard, she lunged at him. Ophelia''s every move was lethal and decisive, as if venting her dissatisfaction. Even with just a dinner knife, she managed to cut his shirt within three moves.

 Jilted Bride 273

    Jonathan only realized what had happened when a sharp pain came from his forearm. The subordinates immediately aimed their guns at hei: Some of them even fired shots,


    With the gunshots, Ophelia quickly dodged, jumped up, and leapt into the sea. A ssh erupted on the dark sea. By the time Jonathan grabbed the railing and looked down, the waves had already disappeared. Jonathan thought, Is this woman crazy? His ice-blue eyes were filled with rage. He immediately ordered his men to search the waters thoroughly.


    Two hours passed, and the sky gradually grew lighter, the deep blue surface of the sea covered in thick fog


    Someone reported, "Mr. Davidson... We couldn''t find her. We''ve searched the nearby waters thoroughly


    This location was quite far from the shore, and they''d searched the sea within a kilometer around the yacht. Jonathan said, "Not finding a body should mean she''s still alive."


    Otherwise, it would have been impossible not to find anything. The sun was up, and they hadn''t seen anyone floating on the


    water.


    Jonathan''s arm was wrapped in bandages. He never imagined that Ophelia would just leap into the sea, and he was filled with anger.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    He thought, ''Am I really that much inferior to Keh? So detestable to her?''


    By the shore, near a rock, Ophelia limped and staggered out of the sea, soaked to the skin. Her hair stuck to her cheeks, her lips turned white from the cold, and her whole body was trembling.


    She forced herself to step cautiously through the leg cramps, finally copsing heavily onto the sand as her calf seized up.


    The sea wind at the shore felt like knives piercing her skin repeatedly, twisting without respite. She coughed a couple of times, staring at the calm sea.


    She had been seeking an opportunity to escape since boarding the cruise ship. She was somewhat familiar with these waters, and when she saw the faint outline of a small ind in the distance, she knew the slums were near. She carefully measured the distance and direction, then jumped into the sea, swimming desperately towards safety.


    The icy water was so cold it felt like she was back in her past life when she was tied to sandbags and thrown into the deep, spending those endless, dark days. Luckily, she made it to the surface.


    Not far away on the sea, arge number of police boats surrounded the cruise with their blue and red lights shing and sirens ring.


    She thought, ''Does Keh really call the police?''


    Ophelia propped herself up, using thest of her strength to hail a cab at the roadside, She didn''t even know how she managed to get into the car. All she knew was that the moment she sat down, everything went dark.


    When Ophelia came to, everything was a blur of white, and the persistent beeping of medical machines rang in her ears. "Elia, you''re awake." It was Chloe''s voice, but it sounded faint and unclear.


    JUZI Mon, Dec


    She slowly turned her tread toward the sound of the voice and met a pair of deep blue eyes, feeling momentarily dazed.


    Seeing the worry on Chloe''s face, she tried to speak, but her throat was tight, unable to make a sound; it felt like her whole chest was about to burst.


    "Don''t rush to speak just yet. You''ve been in a feverisha for wo days, and the fever has just slightly subsided. Have some water first." Chloe exined,


    She handed over a cup of warm water with a straw in it. Chloe guided the straw to her lips. "Take small sips Chloe reminded her.


    Ophelia''s skin, already perfect, appeared even more delicate after two days of high fever, her features softened, resembling that of a fragile beauty.


    As Ophelia swallowed the warm water, her throat felt as if it were being sliced by knives, making each gulp very difficult. After drinking more than half the cup, she finally felt a bit morefortable.


    Her eyes roamed the room, searching for something.


    Chloe opened her mouth to speak, "When I arrived, Mr. Sinir''s staff were here. He had sent them to handle the situation." Ophelia withdrew her gaze and lowered her eyes. They were truly in sync this time. She didn''t need him to worry,e to her rescue personally, or trouble him in any way. She thought, ''Yet... why can''t I just feel happy about it?"


    Chloe looked at Ophelia with sincere concern. She had never seen Ophelia like this before, her eyes gradually losing their light. "You had a severe fever; you should get some rest."


    Ophelia nodded and closed her eyes. But even with her eyes shut, she just couldn''t fall asleep.


    "Chloe, can you do me a favor?" Her voice was as soft as a whisper.


    The emerald-green phone Keh bought for her still worked, even after being submerged in seawater. After Chloe helped her charge the phone, she handed it back to her.


    Once the phone turned on, there were countless missed calls, but not a single one from Keh.


    Just as she was about to scroll down, a call came in from Scott. She had been unconscious for two days; Scott must have been extremely worried looking for her. Ophelia swallowed nervously. "Ophelia, finally, you answered the phone! Where are you now?" a young voice came through, full of urgency.


    "I''m fine. Don''t worry." She tried her best to adjust her voice, but the weakness still seeped through.


    "Ophelia, what''s wrong? Where are you? I''lle and get you."


    "No, listen, stay at Rosewood Manor for now, and don''t wander off." Ophelia coughed and advised.


    Her head was pounding terribly, leaving her dizzy andcking the energy to think too much. These were the only things she could remember.


    As soon as she ended the call, another one came in from Mark. Being in a deep sleep for two days indeed caused quite a bit of concern.


    The person on the other end just wanted to check if she was awake and then hung up. As for Jonathan, Mark didn''t say anything, and she didn''t feel like asking.


    After spending another day at the hospital and her fever finally went down, Chloe handled Ophelia''s discharge. She knew Ophelia well enough to know that even if one asked her about it, she wouldn''t say anything. 10:21 Mon, Dec Z


    She hasn''t mentioned Keh at all these past two days. Her fever was really bad, and Keh was not around that


    lot.


    "How abouting to my ce for a bit? Wyatt misses you" Chipe suggested,


    Ophelia nodded and got into the passenger seat of Chloe''s car. She really didn''t want to go back to Rosewood Manor type


    now.


    They talked about work stuff the whole way.


    "The bid for the Gloomhaven Library is next Monday, and the preparations are done. The Sinir Group.." Chloe hesitated, ncing at the person next to her. "The team they sent over is very capable. "Everyone from the Sinir Group is an industry expert." She was well aware of that.


    "Are you still going personally?" Chloe asked.


    Ophelia nodded. She had to go herself to feel at ease.


    The car had just pulled up in front of the apartment building, not yet entered the underground parking. They saw a fire truck speed past their car.


    "Fire! There''s a fire on the tenth floor!" Smoke billowed from the upper floors, merging into the sky.


    People gathered outside the building, looking up.


    Upon hearing the floor number, Ophelia and Chloe exchanged a quick nce.


    1

 Jilted Bride 274

    The tenth floor, that was Chilo¨¦''s floor. Wyatt was still home alot!


    Chloe turned pale, silently praying in her heart, hoping that nothing was wrong at her home. Everything was perfectly fine when she left in the morning.


    She quickly parked the car, and both of them alinost simultaneously opened the doors and got out.


    Looking up, they saw the window of Chloe''s tenth-floor apartment engulfed in mes and thick smoke billowing out.


    In an instant, Chloe''s legs turned to jelly, her heart seemed to step, and her face went pale.


    With her mind nk, she suddenly noticed a small figure tightly gripping the balcony railing on the ninth floor, with the whole body hanging outside and no support for the feet.


    "Wyatt!" Chloe''s voice was hoarse, yet she dared not shout too loudly, her heart in her throat, fearing he might let go and fall.


    Wyatt''s gaze was fixed below. "Mommy! Mommy!" He shouted with all his might, holding onto the railing for dear life.


    The crowd downstairs grewrger, and Chloe and Ophelia pushed through, wanting to rush into the building but were stopped by the firefighters. "No, it''s too dangerous inside; it could explode at any moment." "Mommy! It''s dangerous. Don''te up." Wyatt''s voice trembled. Even though he was terrified himself.


    Aloud explosion came from the tenth floor, shaking the entire ground. Wyatt''s small body swayed unsteadily, the mes


    almost swallowing him up.


    "Wyatt, you must hold on!" Ophelia looked around anxiously, the intable air cushion still inting below.


    She ran forward and grabbed a bed sheet hanging on the first floor, unfolding it with some kind residents to catch Wyatt if she couldn''t hold on.


    Wyatt nodded and gripped tighter with his small hands.


    "Leave it to us," said the firefighter as he secured his mask and rushed into the building.


    Ophelia and Chloe kept their eyes fixed on the small figure. Wyatt''s expression was calm, not what one''d expect from a five-year-old.


    Time passed slowly until they watched the firefighter carry Wyatt back through the ninth-floor balcony. Chloe finally let out the breath she didn''t realize she was holding.


    After several minutes, the fire on the tenth floor was put out. In the open area downstairs, Chloe held Wyatt, still shaken from the shock.


    People around them were pointing and whispering, "She really is something, leaving such a young child home alone."


    "It''s lucky nothing happened. If something had, she''d regret it for a lifetime."


    "Mommy, I''m okay. Uncle Noah taught me how to handle dangerous situations." Wyatt said, hugging Chloe around the neck.


    "I''m sorry. It''s my fault." Chloe sobbed, overwhelmed with guilt and self-me as tears streamed down. If anything had happened to Wyatt, she wouldn''t have wanted to live.


    "I''m okay... Luckily, I was already awake when Mommy left home today." That''s why, the moment he sensed danger, he quickly climbed to the 9th floor from the balcony.


    After all, Wyatt was only five years old, and once his mind and energy rxed, he fell deeply asleep in Chloe''s arms.


    While Ophelia was worried, she was even more curious about how a fire could just start out of the blue. And the fire spread so quickly


    It was early morning, not yet time for school or work, so many people might still be sleeping. If Chloe hadn''t gone to pick her up from the hospital carly this morning, the oue could have been disastrous. The apartment couldn''t be lived in for the time being. Originally, Ophelia wanted Chloe and Wyatt to stay at Rosewood Manor, but Chloe thought it would be inconvenient, so she booked a suite at a nearby hotel. Watching Wyatt sleep peacefully on the bed, Chloe''s nervous heart finally began to calm down.


    Ophelia said, "Chloe, you should rest a bit too." Managing both work and home was already tiring enough, and she had been busy looking after Ophelia for the past few days.


    Ophelia handed her a ss of water, which Chloe took and set aside. Her eyes stayed on Wyatt as she wiped his face and hands with a damp towel.


    His little palms were bright red. She couldn''t imagine how helpless such a small child must have felt at that moment. "I''m all right, Elia. Maybe it''s just thepany these days..."


    "I''ll handle thepany stuff, and you just spend time with Wyatt."Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Chloe Stevens nodded and didn''t say anything else.


    After getting Wyatt and Chloe settled, Ophelia went back to the apartment.


    The tenth floor was a mess, everything had burned to ashes. Thinking about it was truly frightening. The only part that wasn''t scorched was the balcony, while both rooms were burnt beyond recognition. Judging by the burn marks, it seemed to have spread from the bedroom. She thought, ''What could cause a fire in the bedroom?''


    "Have you found the fire''s source?" Ophelia asked the firefighters who were still inspecting inside. She couldn''t shake the feeling that the fire seemed suspicious.


    A firefighter replied, "Not yet, but we can''t rule out old wiring as a possibility."


    Ophelia followed them, inspecting everything step by step. "Could it have been arson?"


    Her words left the firefighters stunned, and they exchanged surprised nces. "Why do you think that?"


    She couldn''t really exin, it was just a gut feeling. "If you can''t find the source, maybe check the surveince footage for any suspicious people."


    She hoped she was overthinking. With Chloe''s personality, she wouldn''t have offended anyone.


    But soon, the management reported that the surveince had been under maintenance sincest night.


    It was suspicious. Ophelia felt a twitch in her forehead, suddenly recalling the drunken driving incident at the KTV entrancest time.


    She thought, ''Was that car back then actually targeting Chloe, not me?'' This was merely her spection.


    In the end, this matter could only be left to the police, but it would most likely end up unresolved, just likest time.


    After leaving the apartment, Ophelia went back to Rosewood Manor.


    "Ophelia, you''re finally back." Scott had been waiting for her in the living room.


    Lasa didn''t know what had happened, but she felt a deep ache of sympathy seeing Ophelia''s weary face. "Mrs. Sinir, are you feeling unwell?"


    "I''m alright. Ljust want to go upstairs and rest for a bit. Ophelia gave them a reassuring look, said a few words to Scott, and then went upstairs.


    Mark called in the middle, informing her about Jonathan''s oue. Without solid evidence of kidnapping, he had been released without charges. He advised her to be careful during this time. As for Keh, Mark on the other end of the line didn''t say anything.


    "Got it." After hanging up, Ophelia stood by therge window on the third floor, watching the crabapple flowers sway in the wind.


    Tomorrow was the day to get the marriage certificate. She sent a message to Keh: [Tomorrow, I''ll wait for you at the city hall entrance.]


    Just as she expected, after sending the message, it seemed to have vanished without a trace. There was no response from the other side.


    Keh was someone she knew very well. He always had his reasons for everything he did. Still, those words she overheard on the phone were difficult to digest.


    She thought, ''How can the man who, in my past life, was willing to sacrifice everything for me, just leave me like this?''

 Jilted Bride 275

    The night hung over Rosewood Manor like a fog that wouldn''t disperse.


    Ophelia sat on the shaggy carpet, hugging her knees. Since she returned, she''d either sleep on the chaise lounge where Keh often sat or sit by the floor-to-ceiling window with her knees hugged. She didn''t dare sleep on the bed. Without Keh, it was freezing cold.


    Half asleep, she dreamed of Keh building an amusement park for her and kissing her under a carousel.


    But suddenly, he disappeared without a trace. She woke up abruptly, startled from her sleep. Everything felt like a dream, yet it was not a dream...


    She got up before dawn. She heard that getting a marriage license was a big deal, so she dressed up carefully: wearing a white shirt and light jeans, with a touch of makeup to cover her fatigue.


    Coming downstairs, Lisa had already prepared breakfast. She quickly ate breakfast and then drove to the city hall. Sunlight gleamed on the que at the entrance. Several young couples were lined up at the door, their faces radiating happiness. Some girls even wore veils, all dressed in white shirts and white dresses.


    The boys'' faces were both nervous and expectant, looking lost like children.


    Ophelia thought, ''Will Keh be like that? Probably not, who is that guy, and why will he have such an expression?


    Ophelia sat in the car, leaning back in her seat, watching as the city hall opened, and they all rushed in.


    Not long after, pairs of newlyweds came out holding their marriage licenses.


    The first thing they did was hold the licenses in front of their chests, lean their heads together in sync, and take a photo.


    Ophelia couldn''t help but smile as she was infected by their joy. But as time went by, she watched couple after couple leave. Her heart grew heavier.


    Although she had already guessed that Keh wouldn''te, she couldn''t help but hope. Maybe he would show up after all.


    From the afternoon on, fewer and fewer people came to get their licenses.


    Ophelia nced at her phone, and in her conversation with Keh, there were still no new messages from him. She looked around again, but there was no sign of Keh. Every call she made was met with an automated female voice. Each syble struck her heart. Even after the city hall closed, the person she was waiting for never came.


    "Miss, I''ve noticed that your car has been parked here all day. Do you need any help?" An employee asked curiously as they were leaving.


    Ophelia shook her head and managed a polite smile. She took onest look around, and once she was sure the person she was waiting for wouldn''t show up, she drove off. As soon as the ck SUV pulled away, a discreet ck business car slowly followed from across the intersection.


    Mr. Sinir, should we follow her?" The driver nced in the rearview mirror, not understanding why Keh had been waiting here all day.


    Keh crossed his legs, his usual ck suit jacket revealing the unusual sight of a white shirt underneath.


    M


    His long fingers absentmindedly fiddled with the ring on his ring finger, while his thin lips were dighly pursed. Perched on his high-bridged nose was a pair of gold-rimmed sses, Behind the lenses, his green, deep eyes revealed no trace of emotion


    Keh remained silent, and the driver instinctively knew what to do. He maintained a safe distance to avoid being nored.


    At the traffic light, Ophelia received a call from James. "Hey there, it''s me. We''re having a wrap-up party tonight. Want to join us? Everyone hopes you''lle."


    Without her, it always felt like something was missing


    Ophelia nced at the time, was about to refuse, but changed her mind and agreed. "When and where shall we meet?


    "Eight o''clock at the Skyline Lounge."


    "Okay,"


    At the intersection, Ophelia quickly made a U-turn, narrowly missing a ck executive car.


    She drove with a rebellious case, her face cold and determined, and her brown eyes were touched with frost. He hadn''t seen that expression on her face for a long time.


    In an instant, Keh felt a sharp pain in his chest. His Ophelia seemed strong again, just like before. He should be happy. But it felt like he was tearing her apart only to piece her back together again.


    He thought, ''Is what I did truly right?"


    Aaron, the driver, nced at Keh in the back seat, a touch of thoughtfulness appearing in his otherwise nk eyes. He said, "Mr. Sinir, although I don''t know what happened between you and Mrs. Sinir, as an older person, even if you find me verbose, I want to say, don''t do something you''ll regret.


    "My wife always longed for a wedding photo when she was young, but she never got one before she passed away.


    "That''s my biggest regret. We always think there''s more time, but it''s only when we lose it that we realize life offered us many chances, and we just kept waiting for the next one."


    Keh pressed his lips together, not saying anything. After a long time, just as Aaron thought him in the back seat wouldn''t speak, he slowly started to talk.


    He said, "You miss your wife because she left you when your rtionship was at its best. Being with her until the end of her life wasn''t romantic at all.


    "Instead, it traps you in that rtionship forever, making you carry it with you for the rest of your life. Never overestimate anyone''s ability to handle the death of a loved one."


    As soon as the words left his mouth, Aaron fell silent. It seemed like he understood something


    At eight in the evening. Ophelia arrived at the Skyline Lounge.


    When Sharon''s movie became a box office hit, she celebrated here once. It was also here that she met James and Thomas. Just as she entered the bar, she saw James waving at her from the second floor. "Elia, over here!" Ophelia looked up, gave a slight nod, and went up the stairs. While passing by the restroom, her gaze suddenly stopped at


    the wash basin.


    1022 Mon, Dec 2 GG.


    4.81%


    seemed like it was Valentine''s Day, and she was pulled downstairs to dance by Sharon, only to be caught by Keh.


    He had rushed back especially to spend Valentine''s Day with her but she ended up going to the bar.


    e ced her on the sink, kissed her without restraint, and almost got misunderstood by Sharon and Thomas.


    Ophelia withdrew her gaze, her face showing no expression, as he walked upstairs step by step.


    As soon as she walked into the private room, Sharon gave her a big hug. "Elia! I''ve missed you so much!" A very recognizable voice sounded in Ophelia''s ear.


    Every time Thomas saw Sharon being so warm towards Ophelia he couldn''t help but feel jealous, wishing she''d act the same around him too.


    Ophelia! I missed you a lot too." Rex, wearing a shy neon green sequined outfit and holding a beer, tried to hug Ophelia but was stopped by her raised hand. Ophelia said, "Stop!"Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

 Jilted Bride 276

    Ophelia shot an annoyed re at Rex, whose smug grin seemed to stretch to the sky.


    The next moment, Rex stood upright like a tamed tiger, his well behaved appearance was quite a surprise.


    The room was filled with familiar faces, and everyone knew exactly what kind of person Rex was. Not even the king himself could scare him, and no one managed to keep him in line. No one, except for one person. Even on set, if he didn''t cooperate, just saying, "call Elia," would make himply immediately.


    It was like a child unwilling to take medicine when one threatened to call the doctor for a shot. In fact, the effect was even


    better.


    Sharon looped her arm through Ophelia''s as they sat beside James and Kevin. Thomas opened a bottle of wine for Ophelia and passed it to her.


    James raised his ss and said a few words. The group stood up to clink sses, celebrating the sessful months of filming.


    The core crew members and a few important staff, totaling around a dozen people, made the private room lively and buzzing.


    Rex flitted around like a social butterfly, eager to join in and y with whatever anyone was doing.


    Ophelia wasughing and chatting, drinking and singing along with them. On the surface, she seemed her usual self, yet there was something different about her.


    Taking advantage of a pause in their game when someone went to the restroom, Kevin leaned in and quietly asked, "Elia, are you feeling down today?"


    "Not at all! I''m just here to have fun!" Ophelia gave a carefree smile, her cheeks slightly flushed, and her brown eyes reflected the bright lights of the room.


    "Not telling me the truth? Your personality is too well-known to me. You''ve always kept things to yourself, and the more you keep inside, the happier you seem on the surface. Even with a wide smile, your eyes aren''t truly smiling." Maybe it was because they''d seen her truly smile before, so it was easy to tell when her smile wasn''t genuine.


    He hadn''t seen this side of Ophelia in a long ti


    He thought that this side of Ophelia only existed in his memories.


    "Maybe I''ve just been working too muchtely. You know, I''ve got so many things going on. It''s rare to get a chance to rx." Ophelia casually dismissed it with an excuse.


    Soon, the assistant who had gone to the bathroom returned. Standing between Kevin and Ophelia, they continued their dice game, with the loser having to drink.


    After several rounds, Ophelia had a lot to drink. She could really hold her drink, and even when she''d had a lot, it didn''t show.


    "I''m done ying, Sharon. Let''s go downstairs and dance!" Ophelia suggested eagerly.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Maybe it was because Thomas was around, but Sharon hadn''t drunk much, and she was surprised by Ophelia''s suggestion. She remembered Ophelia being like a stiff old soul the first time she was brought onto the dance floor. Sharon had to drag her along to get her moving before she learned how to dance. She didn''t expect Ophelia to suggest it herself this time.


    173


    11.14 Tue, Dec 3 GG


    "Alright! I''ming! Sharon was halfway across the room before someone held her back by the waist.


    "Babe, can''t you tell? Ophelia secins to be in a bad mood today. Thomas pointed out.


    Before Sharon could say anything, Rex, who was hogging the karaoke mic, leaned over. "What? What are you guys talking about? Ophelia''s in a bad mood? I didn''t notice. Who the heck would dare mess with my sister?" His voice echoed through the sound system. Everyone stared at Rex in disbelief.


    It was then Sharon noticed that Ophelia seemed unusually upbeat today. "Alright, I understand. I''ll go check on her," she whispered to Thomas.


    Thomas said, "You better not go. I don''t want any photos getting out. Let Ellie handle it."


    Sharon thought, "True, we''re public figures after all, so we have to be cautious. It is okay earlier when the bar is less crowded, but now it''s peak time.


    Ophelia dove into the dance floor and as soon as she stepped in her mind went nk. Her innocent doe eyes were mesmerizing and alluring, with a soft blush on her cheeks and her long hair cascading over her shoulders. Her pale fingers ran through her hair as she moved to the music. She wore a white shirt and jeans, with the lights flickering across her.


    Such an outfit was umon in a bar like this, like a fresh rabbit above a tiger''s den. That stunning facebined with such a pure look made hearts race, with people eagerly watching


    Before long, Ophelia was surrounded by men. Yet, she waspletely unaware.


    "Miss, did youe here alone?"


    "Hi, can we get to know each other?"


    "I''m the director at Texco. Interested in bing friends?"


    After all, not everyone could casuallye to this bar. Even pick-up lines came from people with status. There weren''t any thugs, but one never knew when a rich yboy might show up. "Hey, beauty, are you trying to catch my attention? Well, you have!"


    "Tonight, I''ll take you away, and you''ll be the woman everyone envies!"


    Ophelia''s delicate brows furrowed slightly. She was dancing perfectly fine, but suddenly a swarm of flies seemed to have appeared, buzzing around her ears nonstop.


    It was driving her crazy! She wanted to shoo them away, but they just wouldn''t leave.


    When Ellie came down, she saw Ophelia surrounded by a few guys trying to chat her up. She hurried over and grabbed Ophelia''s hand. "Ophelia, let''s go back upstairs!"


    Ophelia said angrily, "Ohe on! What''s with you all? I just want to let loose for once! Nobody''s watching over me anyway! Why can''t I just dance in peace? Everyone, move aside!" Ophelia frowned, but her tonecked any authority and sounded endearingly soft and innocent instead. Her eyes were glossy with intoxication,pletely unfocused.


    ""The little girl is right!"


    "Youth is for being wild!"


    The crowd agreed, and Ellie, who had been holding her hand, was suddenly separated from her by someone.


    The bar suddenly went dark, and the music shifted to a deep bass, lively yet subdued.


    The lights changed with the rhythm of the music, and when they dimmed, nothing could be seen. Ophelia was enthusiastically dancing, while the men around gradually moved closer, taking advantage of the darkness to get a little too close.


    Just as one hand was about to touch her waist, it was suddenly caught by a strong grip. There was a sharp "crack" from the dance floor. Immediately, it was followed by a scream.


    Annoyed by the noise, Ophelia covered her ears and kicked out in annoyance. Just as she was about to continue dancing, an arm encircled her waist.

 Jilted Bride 277

    Chapter 277.


    The familiar sensation made her body instinctively lean in, pressing closely against the man''s chest. In the dim, pitch-ck lighting. Ophelia couldn''t see the man''s face.


    This feeling was so familiar, and she missed it deeply. Her legs felt unsteady, and somehow she was led out of the dance floor, the warmth beside her suddenly gone. She found it hard to stand until Ellie helped her keep steady. "Ophelia, Ophelia, what are you looking at?"


    The lights around flickered on and off as Ophelia looked everywhere for that familiar figure, but she couldn''t find it, and without hesitation, she rushed back onto the dance floor.


    "Keh Sinir! Keh..." Ophelia''s steps were unsteady, her voice drowned in the screams and music.


    That figure disappeared into the crowd, nowhere to be found. Imust have been Keh just then. He was here. He came back today. It had to be him; her body couldn''t be mistaken. That familiar feeling, it must have been that man. Ophelia cried, "Keh Sinir... Keh,e out! You came back, didn''t you? You remember what day it is today, don''t you? Kennie...e out..."


    The alcohol had cleared from her system halfway, and she weaved through the crowd, standing on tiptoes with her neck stretched to look around. Her misty eyes pleaded desperately, carrying a bit of hope.


    "Keh Sinir..." she shouted, almost bringing herself to tears.


    She was eager to find him, afraid that it was just her imagination. At that moment, a tall figure suddenly entered her vision.


    Ophelia didn''t even think, she just rushed forward and grabbed the man''s wrist. The man turned around, and a stranger''s face was reflected in Ophelia''s eyes. "Miss, need some help?"


    Ophelia quickly let go, stepped back, and shook her head.


    She thought, ''Can it be... that really isn''t Keh?''


    "Ophelia, let''s go back upstairs! Sharon and James are worried about you being down here alone." Ellie said, linking her arm with Ophelia.


    Ophelia obediently stopped wandering around, her eyes, which sparkled like stars, suddenly lowered.


    In a dark corner, a pair of long narrow eyes were staring unblinkingly at that girl''s silhouette.


    *****


    After leaving the bar, Ophelia checked into a hotel nearby. She didn''t want to go back to Rosewood Manor.


    "I''ll stay with you." Sharon insisted and apanied her to the room, refusing to leave. Thomas stood awkwardly at the door.


    "Go stick with the person you should! I don''t need you here." Ophelia said with a bit of disdain as she nced at Sharon. "You guys


    should head home! Don''t get caught by the paparazzi, and just go! I''m practically, falling asleep here."


    As she spoke, she pushed Sharon out the door right into Thomas arms. "Alright, alright, see you! Goodnight."


    As the door closed, the smile on Ophelia''s face slowly disappeared. Her eyes showed signs of fatigue. She was really tired, but just couldn''t fall asleep.


    Her gaze fell on the wine rack in the room. She grabbed a corkscrew, opened a bottle, and poured herself a ss to drink


    Tue, Dec


    right away.


    "It''s not even midnight yet. Happy Birthday, Ophelia, and you''re all alone again" Once again, she was spending her birthday alone on Children''s Day.


    She finished the ss of wine and couldn''t help coughing a few gines. Her face turned red from the coughing, with tears in her eyes.


    After about ten minutes, she had drunk over half the wine, and sounds of retching and flushing came from the bathroom By the toilet, Opheliay there feeling sleepy. She fell into a dreainless sleep, as if she were dead.


    The first rays of morning sunshine filtered through the curtains as Ophelia opened her eyes, finding herself in arge bed. She was covered with a nket, still wearing yesterday''s clothes


    She thought, ''Did I get into bed by myselfst night?''


    She couldn''t remember, her head was foggy, and her throat felt dry. She picked up a bottle of mineral water from the nightstand, unscrewed it, and took a sip, feeling much better.


    She could still clearly remember what happened yesterday. She hadn''t drunk to the point of forgetting, and fortunately, she had a good night''s sleep.


    Now, there was a lot waiting for her to handle. As for Keh. If he didn''t want her to find him, she had nothing to do. However, she really didn''t have a reason to keep staying at Rosewood Manor now.


    She called Christopher. His techpany had maturedpletely and was now profitable. "Help me buy two single-level apartments downtown, preferably ones I can move into soon."


    Christopher said, "Isn''t that a coincidence? Last time you didn''t take your share, so I invested in a few properties. I''ve only paid the down payments, so two are mortgaged, but there''s one left, though it''s a bit small, like 1,500 square feet. Is that okay?" "You call 1,500 square feet small?"


    Christopher chuckled awkwardly over there; his tone was increasingly sounding like a big boss''s. "Nothing''s ever too big for you. I''ll send you the location and the code right away, so you can head over any time." "Sure."


    In less than half a minute after hanging up, Ophelia received a message. Ophelia couldn''t help but smile when she saw the location. It seemed like there was nowhere she could escape from him.


    The property was developed by the Sinir Group. When she participated in a variety showpetition back then, Keh had suggested she move in for the recordings.


    But the apartment Christopher bought wasn''t as great in terms of floor level or location as the ones Keh had left. The decor was minimalistic as well.


    After all, the properties developed by the Sinir Group were always located in the most convenient ces. She thought, ''Let me move in first, and I''ll change it when the right opportunity arises.


    After leaving the hotel, Ophelia returned to Rosewood Manor. She told Scott to pack up while she grabbed a few things from her room, leaving everything else behind.


    Dressed in a white shirt, jeans, and carrying a backpack, she looked just like when she first came to Rosewood Manor. Lisa and Liam exchanged a nce when they saw her. "Ms. Spencer... you, you are..." 11:14 Tue, Dec 3


    GG


    94%


    "Mrs. Sinir, where are you going?" Lisa rushed forward.


    Ophelia said, "Lisa, Liam, thank you for looking after me this past year. Keh and I never officially registered our marriage, and now we have no connection, so I no longer have the right to stay here." Upon hearing this, Lisa''s eyes immediately turned red. "Mrs. Sinir, what are you saying? What do you mean you''re not connected with Mr. Sinir anymore... Don''t scare me..."


    Ophelia smiled gently, soothingly rubbing the back of Lisa''s har, but she didn''t exin further.


    She was sure Keh wouldn''t betray her, and trusted that he wouldn''t do anything to wrong her.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    She knew Keh had his reasons for everything he did. She believed it all. But believing didn''t mean she wasn''t angry about his actions.


    Maybe she was acting out of spite. Or maybe she was using this tactic of keeping her distance to make him show up.

 Jilted Bride 278

    Tears streamed down Lisa''s face, and Ophelia turned her head away, refusing to look.


    "Take care." With those words, she took Scott and left without looking back.


    Watching her leave, Lisa''s worry mounted as she stomped her feet.


    "What are we going to do now? Come on, Liam, think of something! Say something!" Lisa pinched Liam''s arm.


    Liam winced in pain, his eyebrows knitting together as he watched the pair not yet at the door, so he quickly caught up. "Ms. Spencer, where are you going? Let me drive you."


    "No need, thank you, Liam." Ophelia thanked him, opting not to use Keh''s car but called for an Uber instead.


    She and Scott got into the car, each on one side. The car slowly drove away from Rosewood Manor, the hillside vi.


    Liam watched the car until it disappeared from view before taking out his phone to make a call. "Mr. Sinir, Ms. Spencer..... she''s moved out of Roseerood Manor."


    "Where did she move to?" Keh''s voice on the other end of the phone was calm and hard to read.


    "I''m notpletely sure." He had tried to offer her a ride just to figure out where they were going. But Ophelia was as sharp as Keh, making it impossible to have someone follow them. Liam said, "She didn''t take anything with her." Just like when she first came to Rosewood Manor.


    In the car, Scott was dressed in a sky-blue tracksuit, his buzzed hair a little longer. His deep brown eyes darted around, asionally sneaking a look at Ophelia beside him, looking a bit cautious.


    He wasn''t sure if his being there was causing her any trouble. "Ophelia, where... are we going?"


    Ophelia withdrew her gaze from the window and looked at Scott sitting upright next to her, a little uneasy. She had actually forgotten to tell him. "We''re moving to a new home, and we won''t be living here anymore."


    Scott put his hands on his knees and nodded, his expression somewhat awkward.


    "What''s wrong?" Ophelia asked.


    "Ophelia, am I causing you trouble? If I..."


    "What are you saying! You''re my only family, how could you be a bother! But for now, try to stay in. I''m already contacting a school for you, so you''ll be able to start school soon. Let me know if you need anything. I''ll alsoe back early on weekends."


    As she spoke, she went over, linked her arm through his, and squeezed his arm. "Well, not bad, you''re getting some muscles." "I''ve been working out on my own." Scott said with a touch of pride. His sister praised him.


    Sunlight filtered through the car window, casting a glow on the boy. Scott''s emotions were written all over his face.


    Watching him like this, Ophelia felt herself bing much simpler too. It was rare to be able to let her guard down and drop the facade in front of him.


    Tue, Dec 3


    The third phase of Jumeir Apartment was a series of mid-rise buildings, housing more residents than the earlier phases, with buildings positioned fairly close together. Each floor had two apartments.


    It was rush hour, so there was a lot of foot traffic. Just as she stepped out of the elevator, Ophelia nearly collided with someone waiting to get in.


    "Sorry about that," came a cheerful male voice from above her.


    "It''s fine." Ophelia replied, her gaze drifting away without properly looking at the person in front of her, focusing instead on finding the apartment number.


    "Are you the new neighbor?" The man asked again. Noting that either of them responded, he offered a friendly hint. "It''s probably this way; that side is my ce."


    Ophelia finally lifted her head to get a better look at the person speaking.


    The man was wearing a dark blue id suit. He looked to be in his thirties, very gentlemanly, but with a shrewd look typical of businessmen in his eyes. That kind of look wasmon in the business world. She nodded at the man and walked past him with Scott.


    Just then, the elevator arrived again. The man nodded back at her and stepped into it.


    There wasn''t much interaction, and the man didn''t try to be overly friendly, which Ophelia liked. Once everything was settled, she would also need to head to the office.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    I have someonee by to look after you." Ophelia said just before heading out.


    Scott initially wanted to say that he could take care of himself. But on second thought, he decided not to trouble Ophelia. As long as she''s okay with it, hiring a housekeeper would be fine. Shortly after Ophelia left, a middle-aged woman iming to be a housekeeper rang the doorbell.

 Jilted Bride 279

    The housekeeper said, "Hello, I''m from Perfecturm Housekeeping Service. Myst name is Fiona.


    Scott looked through the peephole and saw a middle-aged woman in a yellow housekeeping uniform standing patiently outside the door. He opened the door and let her in.


    The housekeeper seemed quite honest, speaking with a rural t, giving a genuine impression. After a brief introduction, she started cleaning without any dy. And she would also handle his three meals. With the housekeeper here, Ophelia could concentrate on her work without any concerns.


    Ophelia left themunity and stood by the roadside trying to catch a cab for a while. Although this area was well- positioned, the heavy traffic during the morning rush hour made it hard to get a taxi.


    Ophelia nced at her wristwatch, her elegant eyebrows furrowing together. She initially considered switching to the subway.


    At that moment, a dark brown BMW stopped in front of her, and the window rolled down slowly. It was the neighbor she had encountered that morning.


    The man said, "Hey, new neighbor! It''s hard to find a taxi here in the morning. Where are you going? Maybe I can give you a ride if it''s on my way."


    The man''s tone was casual, neither forceful nor overly eager. It was actually quite reassuring.


    Ophelia looked around and, remembering she had something important to do today, she mentioned her location to see if she could catch a ride. There were many office buildings in that area, each housing severalpanies. She asked, "Are you going that way? I can pay you for the ride."


    "What a coincidence. I work near there too. Get in, I''m heading that way. We''re neighbors, no need to talk about paying for the ride. Don''t be a stranger."


    Since that was the case, Ophelia went ahead and opened the car door to sit in the backseat.


    On the way, she learned that the man''s name was Ethan, and he was in the construction materials business, owning apany and a factory. They had an asional chat, mostly about work.


    Ophelia didn''t reveal too much, but before she got out, she asked Ethan for a business card. "Maybe we''ll get a chance to work together in the future." Ethan politely opened the car door for her, a warm smile on his face.


    "Looking forward to working with you," he said, extending his hand. Ophelia had a good impression of him and gave his hand a light shake.


    This scene was coincidentally noticed by someone with narrow, sharp eyes nearby.


    Inside another car, the atmosphere was tense, Keh''s cold profile reflected in the dark window, stern enough to seem like it could drip water.


    The driver in the front didn''t dare speak, constantly checking Keh in the back through the rearview mirror.


    "Let''s go," said Keh.


    r


    Once the car started. Aaron, the driver, finally feltfortable enough to speak,


    0094%


    He said, "Mr. Sinir, you need to get used to this. Mrs. Sinir so beautiful and young, and she''s bound to have many admirers. What you''ve observed is just the beginning; there will surely be more you don''t notice in the future. Aaron''s voice got quieter as Keh in the back seat looked more and more displeased, making Aaron too scared to continue speaking.


    When Ophelia got home that evening, the table was packed with a delicious spread of dishes.


    Ophelia asked, "Did the housekeeper leave?"


    "Yeah, she left after preparing the meal. Scott quickly served her some soup and rice.


    After changing her clothes, Ophelia came out to have her meal.


    She said, "For the uing period, I might be quite busy. Once everything is sorted out at school, you can stay there on weekdays, and return home on weekends. That way, I can also spend time with you." "Okay... sure, I''ll follow your n, Ophelia."


    For the next two weeks, Ophelia was out early and returnedte almost every day. She could only distract herself from thinking about Keh by immersing herself in work.


    She removed all the people that Keh had transferred to thepany and stopped visiting the Sinir Group. Mark called a few times, and at first, she answered, but then she just stopped picking up altogether. After securing the library project sessfully, the only remaining project this year was the Gloomhaven Sports Center.


    If she took on all three projects in a row, her smallpany might not be able to handle it.


    Furthermore, winning two major political projects had already made many people envious. Countless eyes were watching her. She couldn''t afford to make any mistakes.


    Otherwise, these people would find ways to tear her apart and take their share.


    During this period, she handled everything personally. Every matter, whether big or small, had to go through her.


    Next month, thepany nned to expand again. The financial demands were sorge they were beyond her capacity, so she had to postpone her previous n to buy property for Chloe.


    Someone said goodbye to Ophelia. "Ms. Spencer, tomorrow''s the weekend, and make sure you rest well."


    Ophelia replied, "Thanks, you all have a good rest too."


    When Ophelia left the office, she checked the time; it was just right to head to school and pick up Scott.


    Scott waited a while at the school gate and soon spotted Fiona from afar. "Scott, your sister asked me to pick you up."


    "Okay." Scott nodded and got into the car without any hesitation.


    The car was halfway down the road when Scott realized. "Fiona, I didn''t know you could drive!"


    Fiona looked like a country woman on the surface, with hands full of calluses and rough skin, but holding the steering wheel gave her a different aura.


    11:14


    Tue, Dec 3This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    "Where are we going?" Scott nced around; this wasn''t the way back home.


    "To meet your real sister."


    "What?" asked Scott.

 Jilted Bride 280

    All the way there, no matter what Scott asked, Fiona remained silent. Before long, the looked like it had been abandoned for years.


    car


    stopped in front of a mansion that


    The yard of the mansion was overgrown with weeds, but even so, one could still glimpse its former splendor.


    As soon as Scott stepped inside, a strong sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu hit him. He didn''t even need Fiona to guide him; he somehow knew the way.


    Fiona said, "Mr. Hastings, this was your childhood home."


    Scott thought, ''My childhood home?''


    Scott looked around at everything that seemed so familiar, and a flicker of memory began to form in his mind. No wonder everything felt so familiar.


    So many memories he should have had shed in his mind, but he couldn''t grasp them. The more he tried, the more his head ached.


    Walking through the garden and into the hall, he saw furniture covered with white cloth and the white marble floor reflecting the sunlight. The echoes ofughter from the past seemed to linger in the air. ''Dad, Mom, Harry, Nathan... He thought to himself and seemed to remember something, yet it also felt like he remembered nothing at all.


    "Scott..." A gentle female voice came from behind him.


    Scott turned around and saw a woman in a simple dress walking towards him slowly. He looked at her with a hint of unfamiliarity; there was nothing rted to her in his memory.


    "Scott, I''m your sister." Phoebe said as she held Scott''s hand, her deep brown eyes fixed on his. Their eyes had a certain resemnce.


    Scott stared at Phoebe in front of him for a moment, feeling a bit hesitant.


    Fiona said, "Mr. Hastings, she is your real sister; you are rted by blood."


    Phoebe said, "It''spletely normal that you don''t recognize me. Our mother lost me when I was little, and I''ve been searching for my birth parents for years. I''ve finally found them. Scott, you''re my brother." Scott broke free and took two steps back. Seeing his cautious expression, Phoebe felt a bit hurt.


    Fiona continued to exin from the side, "Mr. Hastings, you used to be the young master of the Hastings family, which was quite a prestigious family in Denex. The reason it''s like this now is all because of that woman who lives with you now." "You''re talking nonsense!" Scott immediately retorted, his brows furrowed tightly as he looked at Fiona. "Why did you bring me here, and what exactly do you want me to see?"


    Fiona sighed. "Why can''t you understand yet? Whether I''m talking nonsense, you''ll see for yourself." With that, Fiona took out a paternity test and some color-printed photos.


    Fiona said, "This is your biological father, and he''s still in the hospital. This is your mother, left in this state of broken arms and legs by someone. And here''s your brother, currently in jail. And here''s Ms. Davidson''s blood typeparison with yours."


    One photo after another hit Scott''s eyes like a punch. His hands were trembling. All the photos and papers slipped from his unsteady grip, scattering all over the floor.


    He couldn''t quite exin why, but looking at these photos made his heart ache sharply. It felt like all the blood in his body had frozen. His face instantly lost all color. "Scott, if you don''t believe me, we can go for another DNA test right now. I truly am your biological sister." Phoebe stepped forward and held Scott''s hand.


    What she said was the truth, not fearing any verification. She had been looking into her own origins all along,


    She never imagined, even in her wildest dreams, that after all the searching, she would turn out to be the long-lost daughter of the Hastings family.


    Fate really yed tricks on people. It was surprising how closely connected she was to Ophelia.


    It was such a twist of fate-if she had been found back then, she would have been the one married to Keh. The one by Keh''s side should have been her now. Ophelia took everything that should have belonged to her. Phoebe said, "Scott, it was Ophelia who caused Mom to end up this way, and Dad was also harmed by her. Everything in Hastings family was taken by that woman. What she has now should have been ours, Scott..." "No, that''s not true... Opielia, my sister isn''t like that..." Scott shook his head repeatedly, his face showing panic. Phoebe covered her mouth and shook her head, looking utterly heartbroken.


    Scott said, "Mr. Hastings, don''t you understand yet? You''re being used. You can''t remember anything now because of Ophelia. She''s the one who sent you abroad.


    Think about it, everything you''ve been told since you woke up was from her, but is that really true? Can you be sure?" Scott held his head, feeling like countless ants were gnawing at his nerves. He couldn''t remember anything. The photos on the ground ovepped with shes of memories in his mind. "No, it''s not like that..."


    Fiona said, "Mr. Hastings, don''t be foolish. This is your real sister. You''ve ended up like this, forgetting everything, because of Ophelia. Do you really want to recognize your enemy as your sister?"


    Phoebe cried bitterly. "It''s alright... Scott, as long as you''re happy, it doesn''t matter if you don''t see me as your sister. You can do whatever you want."


    Scott''s deep brown eyes lost all sense of direction. He looked at Phoebe in front of him, then at the familiar house, took a few steps back, and desperately ran towards the vi''s front gate


    He thought, ''How could this happen? It''s not supposed to be like this...


    Fiona asked, "Ms. Davidson, should we go after him?"


    Phoebe shook her head, her eyes a bit puffy. "Never mind, no need to. It''s normal that he can''t ept it. He''s grown up now and has to face many things on his own."


    Phoebe thought, ''Once doubt arises, no matter what Ophelia does, Scott will not trust her anymore.


    She wouldn''t have to wait much longer to act. Soon, she''d be able topletely reim what was rightfully hers.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Scott was running down the street, not even sure who he could trust. After a while, he felt his phone vibrating intensely in his pocket. The screen disyed: [Ophelia.]


    He stared at the screen for a long time, and his mind automatically started conjuring a lot of images.


    ***


    Tue,


    He thought, ''Is any of this real?''


    ???93%


    The screen went dark, but it soon lit up again. Scott felt like his Head was about to explode, yet he couldn''t remember anything. After another moment, he finally answered the call, "Illo..." Ophelia asked, "Scott, I''m at the school gate. Where are you?"


    Hearing Ophelia''s voice, Scott''s heart finally calmed down a bit. -I''m with my ssmates outside. I''ll be home soon, so you don''t need to worry about me."


    "Where are you? I''lle pick you up." Ophelia insisted, concerned.


    But when these words of concern reached Scott''s ears, they seemed different.


    He thought, ''Why won''t she let me go anywhere? Is she just afraid me may find out some truth? But then why does she want to keep me nearby?''


    "No need, I''ll be back soon." Before Ophelia could say anything more, Scott hung up the phone.


    COMME

 Jilted Bride 281

    A few dozen minutester, Scott returned to the Jumeir Apartment. Seeing the boy safe and sound, Ophelia finally felt


    relieved.


    "Where did you go? Made new friends?" She walked over, trying take his backpack off his shoulder. But as soon as she touched him, he quickly moved away. Ophelia''s hand froze in the air. She sensed that something was with Scott. "What''s wrong?"


    Scott looked a little pale, so she reached out to touch his forehead, but his temperature was normal. "Is the school thing exhausting you?"


    "Yeah, I''m tired." Scott quickly avoided Ophelia''s gaze, took a couple of steps back, and walked past Ophelia into his room.


    Watching Scott quickly shut the door, Ophelia stood there stunned for a while.


    She thought, ''Is he really having troubles or is he angry with me? Is it because I left him alone at school?'' Lately, she''d been extremely busy.


    For dinner, she went out of her way to order a table full of dishes from the restaurant that Scott loved.


    Scott sat across the dining table, staring nkly at the food. "Ophelia... I have a question for you..."


    "Go ahead." Ophelia said as she ced a piece of steamed pork into his bowl.


    Scott looked at the piece of steamed pork in his bowl for a long time. He thought, ''Ophelia knows exactly what I like. She knows me so well, and she won''t do anything to hurt me, right?''


    But the words on the tip of his tongue were swallowed back. "Ophelia, you... you won''t lie to me, right?"


    "Why are you asking that?" Ophelia paused for a couple of seconds, then nodded seriously. "Yeah, I won''t lie to you."


    She thought, ''Once Ronin is done with his busy schedule, I''ll ask him to help Scott regain his memory.


    ''Once he has all his memories back, I''ll tell him everything honestly. Even if he decides not to forgive me then, I''ll be able to handle it.


    ''After all, by that time, his memory will beplete, and his mind mature enough to make his own decisions. It''s not the right time to tell him yet.


    Scott initially seemed like he would ask something more, but he kept his head down, focused on his food, and didn''t speak again for the rest of the meal. After dinner, he went straight into his room.


    She thought, ''Something on his mind? Could he be in love with someone? Isn''t eighteen a bit too young for that?''


    Late at night, in a hotel suite. In her sleep, Chloe suddenly heard a faint rustling sound.


    Her eyes flew open, and she sat up, pulling Wyatt into her arms.


    Wyatt rubbed his sleepy eyes and was just about to speak when Chloe gently covered his mouth with her palm, whispering, "Shh-"


    In the dark room, Chloe''s bright eyes gently signaled the little guy to stay quiet. Wyatt nodded seriously, twice.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Chloe held him in one arm, carefully walking to the window. After checking outside and making sure no one was there, she


    <


    leaned against the wall near the bedroom door, grabbed a vase, and kept her eyes fixed on the doorknob..


    In the stillness of the night, the faint footsteps sounded exceptionally clear, each step echoing in her heart. It seemed there was more than one person.


    Chloe felt her throat tighten as she nced at Wyatt in her arms, Wyatt''s big round eyes looked at her with partial understanding, sensing the danger approaching even though he didn''t know exactly what was happening. The lock cylinder came out of the spring, and the doorknob slightly turned.


    In the pitch-ck room, Chloe''s heartbeat was loud and strong, she had just lifted the vase in her hand, but in the next moment, the person outside didn''te in.


    A few whizzing sounds cut through the night. The sounds of a fight erupted outside the door. In less than half a minute, the smell of blood began seeping through the door gap.


    Chloe held little Wyatt tightly. Before she could go out to check, she heard Eric''s voice outside. "It''s best not toe out yet."


    "Eric?" Chloe frowned and turned on the light in the room.


    She covered Wyatt''s eyes and peeked through the gap. Two men dressed in ck were bleeding heavily from their necks. It was spine-chilling.


    "What happened?" Chloe nced at the time and then at what the two men were holding. They hade prepared, obviously ready to take their lives.


    Fortunately, Eric arrived just in time. Otherwise, she would have had a real fight on her hands.


    "Elia was suspicious from the start, thinking someone might be out to get you, so she asked me to stay nearby to keep you safe." Eric briefly exined.


    Chloe was a bit stunned and quietly ced the vase back on the shelf. She thought, ''Elia always thinks things through. Actually, she didn''t need protection, but now she had to ensure Wyatt''s safety. If it came down to a fight, she wouldn''t be as quick as before. After handling the situation, Eric told Ophelia what had happened. In the dead of night, Ophelia felt uneasy and insisted on going out for a bit.


    She threw on some clothes and left the room,ing across Ethan at the elevator.


    "Just got off work?" Ophelia greeted him.


    "Yeah, had to attend a dinner. You''re out sote... going for a walk?" Ethan asked, looking curiously at her tracksuit.


    "No, just heading out for a bit." Ophelia replied, not giving much detail.


    Ethan nced at the dark sky outside. "Where are you going? I''ll give you a ride, it''s not safe for you to be out sote alone." "Thanks, but that''s not necessary." With that, Ophelia quickly darted into the elevator.


    A few minutester, she arrived at the hotel. As soon as she entered, a strong smell of blood hit her nostrils.


    Seeing Chloe safe and sound, and little Wyatt peacefully asleep in the room, she finally felt relieved.


    The three of them were in the living room, with the bedroom door wide open. Anyone outside could easily see little Wyatt sleeping inside.


    Eric leaned against the shoe cab at the doorway, hands in his pockets, while Ophelia nced over at him. "Can''t you


    leave one alive?"


    If he had left one alive, they could find out who targeting Choe. But unfortunately, both were dead.


    was


    "These two are professional hitmen, only meant to kill and get paid. You wouldn''t get anything out of them." Eric exined. "Besides, you didn''t mention it beforehand!"


    "So it''s my fault?" Ophelia rolled her eyes at him. The way they argued was just like two kids fighting.


    It took Chloe to mediate. She softly cleared her throat and got up to open a window and air out the room. "Chloe, have you offended anyone recently?" Ophelia asked, struggling to understand who would target Chloe. ''Could it be they''re actually after me? So they went for my close ones instead?'' Ophelia could only think that way. Chloe shook her head, lost in thought as she stared at the floor. She thought, ''Could it be... that my identity is exposed?"


    red to her, Chloe''s entire face darkened, and her expression became unnatural. As soon as the thought


    Sive


    Eric, standing at the door with his hands in his pockets, slowly shifted his gaze to Chloe, chewing on bubblegum as the messy bangs on his forehead swayed slightly.

 Jilted Bride 282

    Eric''s calm gaze was like that of a young wolf. Chloe looked up, meeting eyes that were as loyal as a faithful dog''s, showing no hint of hostility.


    Eric shrugged and pulled a piece of candy from his pocket with sincere expression. "Want some candy?"


    Chloe shook her head, but Ophelia stretched out her hand, palm open. Eric expertly tossed the lollipop into her open palm.


    Ophelia unwrapped the candy and put it in her mouth, the sweet taste spreading across her tongue, masking the metallic smell.


    This hotel was no longer suitable to stay in. By morning, they needed to move to a more secure neighborhood. Eric had to remain to ensure the safety of Chloe and Wyatt.


    She always felt trapped by an invisible, slowly closing in on her.


    ****


    Meanwhile, in a Eurasian-style mansion. Outside, the roses were in full bloom. Inside, Phoebe sat with her legs together on a white Eurasian-style sofa, wearing a chiffon nightgown. Tonight was the night Emma was fated to die.


    "Ms. Davidson, I hope your wishese true." A maid said as she presented a bowl of bird''s nest soup. Phoebe dly epted it, unable to suppress the smile on her lips.


    Emma was dead. Once her n was carried out, she would use Keh to create chaos within the Davidson family, allowing her to enjoy the benefits without getting involved directly.


    She thought, ''So, Emma, you must be left without a resting ce


    must b


    "Ms. Davidson..." a subordinate reported nervously.


    "What''s the matter? Can''t you see Ms. Davidson is having her midnight snack?" The maid scolded.


    The subordinate said, "Ms. Davidson, the ones we sent out earlier, they... they haven''te back."


    "What?" Phoebe paused, her spoon of bird''s nest soup in mid-air her smile freezing. "None of them returned?" Just by looking at her subordinate''s expression, she understood. "What a bunch of useless fools!" She threw


    everywhere.


    a coffee cup, and it shattered instantly, the delicate ceramic scattering


    "Someone''s in a temper," said a pleasant and deep voice. The tone rose, full of obvious displeasure.


    Hearing this voice, Phoebe''s anger froze, her earlier expression softened a bit as she adjusted her posture. "Jonathan... what brings you here?"


    Jonathan wore a vintage ck suit, with dark red rose patterns embroidered on the cor and cuffs, exuding an aristocratic air.


    He took out a gray handkerchief from the pocket on his left chest, leisurely wiped his hands, and shot a cold nce at the -shattered coffee cup on the floor. He stepped slowly into the hall


    "The prestige the Davidson family has given you, it seems you don''t value it? Even a dog dares to bite when its master isn''t around?" Jonathan''s icy blue eyes looked at Phoebe without any warmth. Hearing this, Phoebe''s nails unconsciously pressed into her flesh


    ved,N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Chapter 282-


    "Where''s the person I asked for? Didn''t you say two months? How much time has passed now?" Jonathan sat in a single armchair. legs crossed, speaking as if having a casual chat. Only those beside him could sense the tension in the air. "Jonathan, just give me a little more time, very soon..." Phoebe hung her head, the arrogance she had shown just moments ago vanished instantly. Aplete change from her carlier assertive demeanor.


    The maid next to them didn''t even dare to breathe loudly. Everyone was aware of Jonathan''s temper, which despite his gentlemanly facade, was marked by terrifying ruthlessness.


    "Do you think I''m easy to talk to now?" Jonathan tilted his head to look at her, his voice pleasant but filled with a profound emptiness. Hearing it sent chills down one''s spine.


    "I-I already have a n, Jonathan. Give me two more days, and promise..."


    "Only two more days."


    Over the weekend, Ophelia nned to join Scott for a game of basketball.


    After a night''s sleep, Scott had almost processed everything. No matter what, he trusted his interactions and judgments during this time. He believed Ophelia would never do anything to hurt him. Seeing that Scott hadn''t changed much today, Ophelia didn''t bring up yesterday''s matters again. After having breakfast, they


    went out.


    Watching Scott sweating buckets on the basketball court, two girls even approached to ask for his contact information.


    Ophelia quietly chuckled when she saw the big guy on the court blush and scratch his head, ncing towards her in the stands.


    As he came off the court, she teased him and asked, "Why didn''t you give those two girls your number just now?"


    Scott said, "Ophelia, at my age, I should focus on my studies first."


    "Oh, right." She wanted to ruffle Scott''s hair, but he dodged away


    "I''m all sweaty. Let me take a quick shower and change, and then we''ll head out."


    "Okay."


    Watching Scott head to the locker room, Ophelia sat in the bleachers, taking the opportunity to go through some papers. Time passed, and after half an hour, Scott still hadn''te out. The continuous sound of basketballs bouncing and people shouting on the court echoed in Ophelia''s heart. She got up and strode towards the men''s locker room. Ophelia tried to call Scott, "Scott..."


    "Sorry, you can''t go in there. It''s the men''s locker room," the security guard stopped her.


    Ophelia craned her neck to look inside, a bad feeling creeping over her.


    "If you need to find someone, call them. You can''t go in," the guard reminded her.


    Ophelia pped her forehead, realizing how flustered she had be in her rush. She quickly pulled out her phone and called Scott. The call went unanswered. Ignoring the protests of the people in front of her, she rushed into the locker room where a few boys quickly covered their


    upper bodies with their clothes. Ophelia looked around and called, "Scott..." There was no response from the bathroom.


    "Is there anyone in there?" she asked.


    The boys exchanged nces and shook their heads. It was her oversight.


    She quickly found the back door of the gym and nced around Luckily, there were security cameras, but she''d have to trouble Chloe again.


    "Chloe, Scott might have been kidnapped." Just after sharing her location with Chloe, she received a message on her phone.


    [If you want Scott to stay alive,e to this location alone.]


    As she feared, it was all a setup, and she med herself for not being more careful.


    Ophelia''s knuckles turned white from gripping her phone until Chloe called her name twice, bringing her back to her senses. "No need, Chloe. I think I might know where Scott is. If you don''t hear from me in two hours, call the police."


    "Elia, where are you going? I''ll go with you." Before Chloe could say another word, Ophelia had already hung up the phone. She couldn''t let Chloe take risks with her. She also couldn''t let anything happen to Scott again; she would not allow the tragedy from before to repeat.


    0

 Jilted Bride 283

    The location sent to her phone was in a Eurasian-style mansion outside the town. The area was sparsely popted and heavily guarded, with roses all around looking like a sea of vivid red blood.


    As soon as Ophelia stepped into the area, she saw a familiar face-Fiona. She was Jonathan''s subordinate. She had encountered her before and even had a showdown.


    Beforeing, she made sure to bring along the special potion Ronin had developed for her, just in case.


    Fiona looked at Ophelia and said, "Ms. Spencer, it''s been a while. Please, this way."


    Fiona''s expression was polite, but she felt like she could crush her teeth. She definitely wouldn''t forget the loss she suffered because of Ophelia, though there would be a good time for payback; she wasn''t in a rush to act just yet. Ophelia followed behind Fiona, observing the surroundings. As soon as she walked in, she noticed Scott on the couch. His eyes were closed tight, and there was a scrape on his cheekbone.


    "Scott!" Ophelia didn''t even think; she lifted her foot to rush over when suddenly she felt something underfoot.


    Several sharp sounds sliced through the air around her. From below the second-floor railing, several crossbows fired at once, a barrage of cold arrows shooting right at her.


    Luckily, Ophelia reacted quickly enough to barely dodge, but an arrow still grazed her shoulder, leaving a bloody mark on her fair arm.


    If she hadn''t reacted quickly, those crossbow arrows could have easily taken her life.


    Though this ce wasn''t exactly filled with traps, right now, as soon as she stepped closer to Scott, those arrows would shoot. That was truly wicked.


    Fiona gave a cold sneer. "Ms. Spencer, you''d better not act recklessly." She cautioned.


    Just as she finished speaking, Phoebe, wearing a simple long dress, gracefully walked down the spiral staircase in the center of the hall.


    A charming smile adorned her face, the very picture of grace and elegance. "Elia, it''s been a long time." Indeed, it had been a while.


    Seeing Phoebe, Ophelia wasn''t surprised at all; the Davidson siblings were two of a kind. With Jonathan out of the picture, they''d brought in Phoebe.


    At that moment, two bodyguards approached from behind Ophelia, each grabbing one of her shoulders.


    "Be respectful to Ms. Spencer." Phoebe advised.


    Ophelia didn''t say anything, allowing the two bodyguards behind her to take hold of her without resistance. Her gaze asionally settled on the boy on the sofa. Scott was clearly unconscious. Ophelia said, "What did you do to Scott? You were after me all along. Well, I''m here now, so just let him go."


    Phoebe suddenlyughed. "Elia, you''re really naive. Do you think I''m stupid? If I let him go, how would I keep control over you?" She said lightly, her voice taking on a teasing tone. Ophelia didn''t bother arguing. "So what do I need to do for you to let him go?"


    "I want you dead. You die, and I''ll let him go." Phoebe''s tone intensified, her eyes full of malice as she red at Ophelia, as if she wished she could tear her to pieces.


    <


    Chapter 283-


    She thought, ''She hates me that much? She wants me dead?''


    "What''s wrong? Got cold feet? Where''s that brave face you had a moment ago?" Phoebe walked over to Scott, her red nails pinching Scott''s pale jaw.


    On the table was a thumb-thick syringe filled with liquid. Phoebe picked it up, gave it a slight push, and a few drops oozed from the needle tip. She pressed the needle against Scott''s clean neck.


    "Don''t touch him!" Ophelia''s expression froze instantly. She spoke each word slowly, her eyes fixed on the sleeping boy.


    Phoebe said, "Alright! I won''t touch him, but only if you try it yourself. Earlier, because of you, Keh injected me with two doses of that stuff. It''s a fate worse than death-want to try If not, I''ll let your dear brother try it out." The sharp needle pierced into Scott''s neck, and even unconscious, the boy felt the pain and his brow furrowed slightly.


    "No!" Ophelia clenched her hands tightly, her deep ck eyes fixed firmly on the person in front of her. "I''ll do it. Let me do it..."


    She already felt guilty towards Scott, and she couldn''t let anything else happen to him. After all, she was an orphan; this life was hers to decide, evenf it meant dying.


    To someone who had lived another life, each extra day felt like a stolen gift. She had nothing left to fear. She rolled up her sleeve, revealing arge area of skin.


    Fiona picked up the syringe nearby. "Don''t worry, Ms. Spencer. Two doses of the drug won''t be fatal."


    The needle pierced her arm, and Ophelia seemed unfazed by the pain. Her face was nk, hands clenched into fists, eyes fixed on the boy on the sofa.


    Two doses of the drug were administered. The cold medicine slowly spread through the veins in her arm, moving towards her heart.


    Her heart pounded fiercely, as if it wanted to leap out of her throat. Her blood vessels contracted and expanded, as heart-wrenching pain spread from her limbs to her entire body.


    The color drained from Ophelia''s face, veins bulging on her forehead, and sweat as big as beads trickled down her cheeks. Every joint in her body was aching. The pain went on for several minutes.


    "Let... him... go..." Ophelia''s voice was fragile, like a thin silk thread, but it was very firm.


    Whether it was the effect of the drug or because she had taken the medicine from Ronin earlier, once the pain moved through her body, it began to disappear.


    "You think after enduring two doses I''ll let them go? In your dreams!" Phoebe squinted at the person in front of her.


    She nced at Fiona, suspecting that the two doses were anything else but the drug. Ophelia actually got through it this easily. Back then, she hadpletely passed out.


    Ophelia was breathing heavily. She tried to steady herself and said, "Aren''t you trying to kill me? Just let them go."


    Phoebe frowned, unsure what tricks Ophelia in front of her was ying. She didn''t believe that Ophelia would really be willing to die just like that.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Seeing Phoebe stay silent, Ophelia suddenly gave a coldugh, turned around, and quickly subdued the two bodyguards behind her.


    Ophelia said, "If I really wanted to act, do you think just two people could hold me back? I''ll say it again, let Scott go. Do whatever you want to me."


    10:34 Wed, Dec 4 GG.


    0.97%1


    Even though Ophelia''s face was pale, the strength in her hands didn''t lessen, and her voice was firm and strong.


    A hint of caution shed in Phoebe''s eyes as she pulled out a small crossbow and aimed it at Ophelia''s leg.


    An arrow shot towards Ophelia''s thigh. Ophelia winced in pain, twitch flickered across her brow, and the strength in her hands weakened, her face as pale as paper. Phoebeughed maniacally, as if she''d discovered a new world. I turned out Ophelia did have a weak spot after all. Even Ophelia could end up feeling so humble. "Don''t worry. I''m not going to do anything to him. After all, he''s my own little brother." Phoebe put away the syringe.


    Ophelia frowned, the pain in her leg making her doubt what she was hearing. She couldn''t understand what Phoebe in front of her was saying.


    She thought, ''What little brother? How can Scott possibly be her real brother?

 Jilted Bride 284

    As Ophelia was feeling puzzled, Phoebe slowly spoke up, "I was adopted by the Davidson


    are indeed Owen and Heather. So naturally, Scott is my actual lile brother."


    "What?" Ophelia''s brows furrowed even more; she had never considered this possibility. family, and my biological parents


    Rather than saying she hadn''t thought of it, it was more that she couldn''t imagine something so coincidental happening. She was just a tool brought back by the Hastings to marry for profit; she wasn''t their biological daughter. And the daughter the Hastings truly lost turned out to be Phoebe. Fate really did have a wicked sense of humor.


    "So, I guess it''s time we settle everything today." Phoebe lifted her eyelids. If Ophelia hadn''t taken her ce back then, she would have been the one to marry Keh.


    Ophelia wondered what Phoebe was going to settle. She asked, "You mean to avenge them?"


    In terms of power, the Davidson family far surpassed the Hastings family. She didn''t believe that Phoebe, a spoiled girl who had always been pampered and sheltered, would have any deep feelings for Owen and Heather. She also didn''t believe that blood ties alone would make her spare Scott.


    "Let him go." Beads of sweat asrge as peas ran down Ophelia''s forehead.


    "And what can you do if I don''t?" Phoebeughed and looked at Ophelia in front of her, as if she were looking at an ant.


    She thought, ''The nerve of her to talk to me in that tone, it is such a joke.''


    "Ophelia, today is the day you die!" The crossbow was aimed at Ophelia again.


    A smile appeared on Ophelia''s lips, and her innocent doe eyes instantly turned cold.


    She looked down at the arrow in her thigh, gritted her teeth, and pulled it out in one swift move. A chill ran through her body as the pain made cold sweat break out.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Phoebe watched her actions with a hint of surprise in her eyes.


    Before Phoebe could react, Ophelia quickly dashed forward, skillfully dodging the arrows flying from all directions. She grabbed the crossbow from Phoebe''s hands, swiftly moved behind her, and wrapped her arm around Phoebe''s neck. The whole movement was smooth and fluid, happening in the blink of an eye.


    Her astonishing burst of energy left the people around with no time to react; no one expected Ophelia to still have the strength to fight.


    Just a moment ago, Phoebe was feeling triumphant, but now Ophelia had her by the throat, and the crossbow had been snatched from her hands.


    Her eyes widened in fear as she turned her head slightly, seeing Ophelia behind her in her peripheral vision.


    Phoebe, who had previously been in control, was now easily subdued by Ophelia. "O-Ophelia, what are you going to do?" Ophelia''s breathing was somewhat unsteady. Even though her face was pale, her breathing uneven, and she had a bleeding wound on her leg, looking quite disheveled, she still couldn''t hide the unique aura of fearlessness surrounding her.


    Her clear and pure eyes looked indifferently at everyone. She held the crossbow bolt in her hand, aiming at Phoebe''s leg.


    "How about it? Want to give it a try?" Her voice was soft; she really didn''t have much strength left.


    <


    "Do you think you can escape like this?" Phoebe''s voice was trembling, terrified that Ophelia behind her might actually take


    action.


    "I never nned to escape." Ophelia spoke with a calm tone, in stark contrast to Phoebe''s trembling voice. The bodyguards around her quickly pulled out their guns and pointed them at her.


    Fiona looked at Ophelia in front of her. She thought Ophelia was really odd-facing death, she remained so calm. This kind of courage and determination was indeed impressive.


    Phoebe suddenly shouted towards Scott on the couch, "Scott! Scott..."


    Fiona dodged the arrow and waved the antidote under Scott''s nose, letting him catch a whiff. Scott slowly woke up, opened his eyes, and looked around with confusion.


    "Scott, please help me! She wants to kill me!" Phoebe''s eyes were red, looking pitiful, which created a stark contrast to Ophelia, who was holding her captive.


    Seeing Scott awake, Ophelia let out a slight sigh of relief.


    Phoebe cried, "Scott, hek me! The person behind me wants to kill me."


    Scott shook his head, unable to remember how he got there. Hearing the voice, he looked in its direction and saw the scene in front of him. Ophelia was holding Phoebe as a hostage. "Scott, save me! She wants to kill me." Phoebe kept repeating.


    "Ophelia, what... what''s going on?" Scott addressed Ophelia.


    "Scott, I''m your real sister. It''s Ophelia who harmed our parents and the Hastings family." Phoebe repeatedly shouted, tears and snot covering her face.


    Scott felt a headache as he suddenly remembered the photo he saw yesterday.


    Ophelia was restraining Phoebe. She truly had no strength to exin herself, and she didn''t know how to either.


    Scott stood up from the couch, fixing his gaze on Ophelia, and desperately wanting an answer.


    Ophelia''s eyes met his puzzled gaze, and in Scott''s eyes, she saw confusion and doubt. For a moment, she thought she might be mistaken.


    "I-Is that how it is? You... you promised you wouldn''t lie to me. Just tell me the truth. The Hastings family, is what''s happening to it rted to you?" Scott regretted asking the moment the words left his mouth.


    He lowered his gaze, not daring to look at Ophelia, suddenly anxious and afraid of hearing the answer.


    "Yes, it is rted to me." Ophelia didn''t hide it. She had promised Scott she wouldn''t lie to him.


    Scott lifted his head,pletely shocked.


    "Scott, kill her! Avenge our parents!" Phoebe urged him.


    Ophelia even hoped Scott in front of her would oppose her, so at least Phoebe wouldn''t really do anything to him.


    Scott clenched his fists, unsure of what to do.


    Fiona nced at Ophelia, surprised she admitted it so easily. For some reason, she felt that what Phoebe was doing wasn''t quite honorable.


    Ophelia stopped looking at Scott and aimed a crossbow at Phoebe''s shoulder. She said, "I''ve already paid you back for taking


    Chapter 284 97


    that bullet for mest time


    "This time, I won''t hold back. Since we''re both going to die anyway, might as well take you with me." Her voice sounded like it came straight from hell.


    Phoebe was so scared her face went pale, "I don''t believe it. You you wouldn''t darey a hand on me in front of Scott... I


    won''t...


    An arrow pierced through Phoebe''s shoulder. Ophelia was sure that Scott would make his own decision.


    Phoebe''s eyes widened, her face going white, and she broke out in a cold sweat from the pain. She cried and clutched her pierced shoulder, feeling the blood seep through her fingers.


    She suddenly turned her gaze to Scott, her voice weak. "Scott... you saw it with your own eyes, right? You should believe it now, right? Quick, kill her... kill her..."


    Scott stood frozen, his eyes filled with helplessness and a strange look as he nced at Ophelia. It felt a little chaotic for a


    moment.

 Jilted Bride 285

    "Why, why... Scott didn''t dare to look at Ophelia. In his impression, Ophelia wasn''t like this.


    But she admitted it; she was indeed involved in what happened to Hastings family.


    Ophelia looked at Scott without offering any exnation. It seemed nearly impossible for her to escape in her current state. Only by making Scott oppose her could Phoebe leave him alone


    Seeing standing there dazed and not moving, Phoebe panicked. She thought, ''Useless! It''se to this, and he''s still not taking action. What''s he waiting for?''


    Phoebe clutched the wound on her shoulder, cing her entire weight on Ophelia. She red at Fiona, then leaned back. digging her fingers fiercely into the injury on Ophelia''s leg.


    Ophelia winced from the pain and instinctively pushed the person in front of her away. In an instant, several bodyguards in ck stepped forward.


    Fighting bare fists agains multiple opponents was tough. Blood still trickled from her leg wound, and she identally triggered a trap, releasing a flurry of arrows that whizzed past Ophelia''s cheek. Ophelia tried her best to dodge, but one of the arrows struck her in the calf, forcing her to kneel on one knee,


    "Ophelia..." Scott rushed forward but was blocked by Fiona.


    Ophelia''s arms were pinned behind her, cold sweat dampening her bangs.


    She really had no strength left. Her vision blurred, the surroundings were silent, and all she could hear was her own breathing. Suddenly, she longed for Keh. If she had any regrets about living a new life, apart from not having developed the slums yet,


    it was that she hadn''t shared a child with Keh.


    She thought, ''But maybe it''s for the best, with nothing to hold me back.


    Meanwhile, two hours had already passed. Chloe hadn''t received a call from Ophelia. She called back, but there was no answer. She believed that something must have happened.


    She thought, ''Even if I report to the police now, there''s no certain when they will start searching for Elia. Reaching out to Mr. Sinir is more effective than calling the police right now! She handed Wyatt to Eric and drove alone to Rosewood Manor.


    Denex Private International Airport. Keh''s well-defined fingers held the phone close to his ear.


    The voice of Liam came through the phone. "Mr. Sinir, it''s a relief you haven''t boarded yet. It''s about Mrs. Sinir. Someone''s kidnapped Scott to threaten her. She might be in danger." Keh frowned slightly. His high-bridged nose supported a pair of gold-rimmed sses. Beneath the lenses, his deep, dark eyes seemed to hold eternal ice. Someone kidnapped Scott to threaten Ophelia.


    Back when Scott got injured, Ophelia felt so guilty. This time, she definitely wouldn''t ignore Scott''s situation.-


    With her personality, she could handle everything on her own with ease, but once she had a weakness, she''d feel constrained.


    "Mr. Sinir, if you don''t want any regrets, you should go find a yourself." Chloe shouted into the phone. She didn''t want to see that helpless, disappointed look in Ophelia''s eyes again. Keh stayed in his phone stance while Caleb, who heard the call, immediately started his investigation.


    After the call ended, Caleb had already found the information. Mr. Sinir, Jonathan has been in Denex recently. Is it possible that..." Besides the Davidson family, he couldn''t think of anyone else. "Find them."


    ""Yes!"


    Several minutester, Keh showed up in front of a Eurasian style mansion, which was surrounded by several ck SUVS.


    When Jonathan''s subordinate, Jim, came out with his team, this was the scene he encountered. "Mr. Sinir, what''s going on here?" As soon as he spoke, Jim was held down by Caleb and Barrett.


    The ck dress pants perfectly outlined Keh''s long and straight legs. He stepped onto the porch, walking into the house one step at a time.


    His ck leather shoes echoed on the smooth marble floor. Despite his hurried pace, his expression remained remarkablyposed.


    At the top of the stairway on the second floor, Jonathan nced at the intruders and then at his men, who were no longer in control.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    His icy blue eyes were veiled with ayer of frost. "Keh Sinir, what do you mean by this? Trespassing on my property, I could just shoot you right now."


    Keh shot back, "Looks likest time''s lesson wasn''t enough for you?"


    Thinking aboutst time made Jonathan feel frustrated. He had nearly been caught by the police in Denex and had some illegal arms shipments seized, all because of Keh.


    "I warned you, mess with my girl, and be ready for the consequences." Keh''s voice was icy cold.


    Jonathan slowly walked down the stairs, a disdainful look in his eyes. Now he understood. Surely Keh was behind this grand scheme, all thanks to Phoebe''s meddling.


    "Your girl? Have you got a marriage license with Ophelia? Are you married? How can you call her yours? Didn''t you say on the phonest time that she was none of your business? Think it''s fairpetition, right?" Keh thought, ''Fairpetition? As if he is worthy of it?''


    Keh was like a lion whose territory had been challenged, his jaw clenched and eyes fierce. "Can the Davidson family handle it?"


    Jonathan raised an eyebrow, a devilish smile forming on his lips. He thought, ''Who does he think he is threatening? Does he think I''m scared? At worst, it will be mutual destruction.


    The Death Guild is no simple adversary, but the Davidson family has deep roots; I''m not afraid.


    Two men of simr height stood face to face, ice-blue eyes meeting deep, green eyes. For a moment, the tension in the room was palpable.


    "Jonathan!" A cold voice echoed from the doorway.


    Jonathan was briefly dazed but instantly turned towards the voice.


    10:34 Wed,


    Someone cried, "Ms. Emma Davidson!"


    Everyone in the room simultaneously turned to look at the door. The stern look in Jonathan''s eyes disappeared the moment he saw the person at the door. "Emma..." Jonathan ignored Keh and directly walked toward Chloe without acknowledging Keh in front of him.


    "Emma, where have you been all these years..." He excitedly grabbed Chloe''s shoulders, looking her over. She was just as before, unchanged.


    His sister had returned. He couldn''t hide his excitement.


    A man nearly six feet three suddenly turned into a joyful cat, dancing with joy. His icy blue eyes instantly warmed. "Emma, I knew you were still alive..." Chloe sighed, looking disappointedly at Jonathan in front of her Kidnapping and coercion, such trivial crimes, yet he dared to be her brother. She shifted her gaze from Jonathan to Keh, with a hint of guilt in her eyes.


    However, Keh''s expression remained indifferent, showing no surprise at all. His guess was correct. She was indeed connected to the Davidson family. Chloe, with a cold and detached look, waspletely opposite to the excited Jonathan in front of her, speaking in an usatory tone. "Where''s Elia?" "Who?" Jonathan raised an eyebrow, taking a moment to realize who Chloe was talking about. "You mean Ophelia?"


    Chloe frowned, looking at him displeased.

 Jilted Bride 286

    Jonathan took a deep breath, looking a bit aggrieved. "Emma, you start interrogating me the moment youe back? Can''t you care about me a little first?"


    Chloe thought, ''Expecting me to care? Keep dreaming!


    Chloe'' deep blue eyes were icy cold as she suppressed her anger her expression bing even fiercer. Those familiar with her temperament knew she was about to take action. In the next moment, Chloe grabbed Jonathan''s ear and twisted it hard.


    "Cut the talk! Where is she? Give her up." She growled. "If anything happens to Elia, Mr. Sinir will make the whole Davidson family pay. Can you handle that? Is your brain broken" It wasn''t that she was afraid of Keh; she just knew how important Ophelia was to him.


    "Emma, I''m an adult now, so could you stop yanking my ear all the time?" Jonathan''s previously arrogant demeanor was immediately halved.


    He quickly tried to rescue his ear from her grasp. He didn''t forget to nce sideways at Keh and his team.


    Suddenly, he felt embarrassed in front of Keh. "It''s nothing to do with me; I didn''t take her."Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Even if it''s not you, you''re still not off the hook." Chloe knew her brother well. He had captured Ophelia twice and never showed interest in anyone else. He couldn''t easily let Ophelia go Chloe''s gaze was already a warning. Facing that deadly stare, Jonathan sighed and reluctantly pulled out his phone.


    Even though he didn''t get Chloe'' rtionship with them, under her gaze, he quickly and obediently dialed the number.


    However, the call went unanswered. "Damn it!"


    He thought, ''That jerk, daring not to answer my call? Who gives her the nerve!''


    He called two more times, but still couldn''t reach Phoebe. Usually sopliant and never hesitating, but suddenly she wasn''t answering.


    Jonathan thought, ''That''s fine!'' He tried calling Fiona again, but there was still no answer.


    Seeing Jonathan''s furrowed brow, Chloe sensed something was wrong. "What''s going on?"


    Four hours had already passed. Keh''s patience was gone. His pronounced knuckles cracked as he clenched his fist, and he stepped forward, grabbing Jonathan''s cor. "Jonathan." "Let go!" During the tussle, Jonathan''s phone dropped to the ground, and he responded in kind by grabbing Keh''s cor. The two men started wrestling with each other.


    "Mr. Sinir, the urgent matter is to find Elia." Chloe quickly intervened, struggling hard to separate the two.


    She trusted her brother, believing he wouldn''t dare ignore her words. Since he was already making calls, it meant he -intended to release Ophelia. Something must have gone wrong. "What''s going on?" she asked.


    Jonathan adjusted his tie, taking a few deep breaths. "She should be at Rose Manor."


    Keh straightened his cuffs and immediately strode out. He walked with such strength that his subordinates quickly


    followed.


    D


    Chloe had just turned to follow them when Jonathan grabbed her wrist. "Emma..."


    Chloe frowned. "Don''t say anything else until we find Elia. You better hope Elia''s alright."


    "Phoebe wouldn''t dare do anything. I''ve already warned her not to hurt anyone."


    Chloe frowned at her brother. "You''re growing taller but not smarter, can''t you see it? Phoebe''s ambition isn''t innocent. Didn''t you know from the start she was a biter?" Jonathan felt a bit guilty from her words. Before he could respond, Chloe ignored him and turned to leave.


    Rose Manor was built during her time in the outskirts of town, and she knew the location well. "Mr. Sinir, I''ll lead the


    way."


    A few minutester, a grand convoy surrounded Rose Manor. The surroundings were eerily quiet, with a gust of wind making the bright red roses sway eerily.


    Before the car even came to a full stop, Keh threw open the door and strode in.


    "Be careful, Mr. Sinir!" Chloe followed closely, and just as her warning left her lips, arrows began to rain down from all sides. Keh''s sharp eyes noticed them, and with nimble moves, he dodged them perfectly. He nced around the area and realized there was no one there. It was clear they had already left. The house was empty, clearly abandoned.


    Seeing the blood stains on the floor, Keh''s expression turned even grimmer.


    "What''s going on?" Jonathan asked as he came in, following closely behind.


    Chloe didn''t look much better as she surveyed upstairs and downstairs. There were signs that the ce had been tampered with, and the bloodstains on the floor had darkened. She now understood what was going on. That brainless Jonathan! It was obvious Phoebe was trying to incite a conflict between the Davidson family and Keh. If she hadn''t arrived in time, Keh might have already taken action.


    Jonathan said, "Emma, I..."


    "Shut up! Find them!" Chloe growled, and at hermand, the subordinates immediately sprang into action.


    In no time, they found Scott unconscious in a room upstairs.


    Meanwhile, a fire started spreading from the backyard on the first floor of the house. There were still a few rooms upstairs that hadn''t been checked.


    Keh rushed upstairs and kicked open a room door, but there was no one inside.


    Jonathan also kicked open another door, and the three worked swiftly, not missing a single room.


    "Mr. Sinir, the fire''s spreading up here!" Caleb warned. They had searched the other rooms too but found no one. Someone said, "Ms. Emma Davidson, Mr. Davidson, we''ve searched the rooms, but there''s no one there." "She shouldn''t be here; let''s get Scott out first." Chloe even searched for the secret doors and passages.


    As they went downstairs, the fire had already reached the spiral staircase, with scorching mes leaping wildly around. Just as the group left, the fire started to spread, consuming the entire house and the nearby red roses. Chapter 286


    95%


    Meanwhile, in an industrial warehouse near the Westoira Reservoir, Ophelia was chained by the wrists, hanging from a cold concrete pir. The blood on her legs had already dried.


    Bncing on one leg, she was about to copse. With every movement, the chains made a sharp noise, echoing eerily in the empty warehouse.


    Around her, several bodyguards were pouring gasoline along the warehouse''s perimeter.


    Phoebe''s shoulder wound was bandaged, leaving her weak. She coughed lightly several times, each cough making her wound hurt more.


    The more it hurt, the more she hated the person in front of her. Yet, thinking about how Ophelia would soon meet her end, she felt a bit relieved.


    "Ms. Davidson, the gasoline is spread," a bodyguard said, tossing the empty cans aside.


    "Ophelia, today''s the day you die. Oh, I almost forgot to tell you that Scott''s probably been burned up in the fire by now. But don''t worry, you''ll be with him soon!"


    "You promised not to touch him!" Ophelia forced the words through her clenched teeth. Her lips were marked with blood. Phoebeughed and said, "Well, he only had you as his sister! He deserved to die."

 Jilted Bride 287

    Ophelia wrapped her hands around the iron chain, gripping it tightly. Blood stained a section of the chain, trailing down her pale arm.


    Phoebe held her shoulder wound, feeling incredibly satisfied as he looked at the powerless person in front of her.


    She couldn''t bear to let Ophelia in front of her die just yet; if time allowed it, she''d love to torment her a bit more.


    Someone asked, "Ms. Davidson, what about Fiona?"


    Phoebe looked at the unconscious Fiona. Her worth had been exhausted, and she knew too much. There was no point in keeping her around.


    Once Keh discovered Ophelia was dead, he would definitely me the Davidson family.


    She thought, ''Haven''t the Davidson family treated me like a dog all these years? Then I''ll make sure the Davidson family regrets it!''


    She said, "Throw her in, with Ophelia. How are you doing, Elia? You''ve gotpany on your final journey."


    Opheliaughed coldly and said, "Phoebe, you''re truly heartless. You don''t even spare your subordinates..."


    "Who told her to plead for you? Disloyal people deserve to die!" Phoebe said as if it were obvious. The bodyguard threw Fiona at Ophelia''s feet.


    "Light it!" She wanted to watch Ophelia turn to ashes with her own eyes.


    The bodyguard lit a torch and threw it into the air in a perfect arc, the mesnding on the gasoline-soaked ground.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    The fire sprang up, slowly consuming everything around it.


    Being so close to the woods, with the grass and trees ready to burn, and after gasoline was poured, the fire grewrger in no time.


    The setting sun outside shone through the warehouse cracks, with the firelight flickering and a touch of the beautiful sunset reflecting in Ophelia''s dark eyes.


    The zing heat gradually moved closer. She thought, ''Is this really how I''m going to die?'' She hadn''t seen Keh onest time, which was a shame.


    But maybe dying like this was okay; at least her body would disappear without a trace, and that Keh wouldn''t cling to her and die with her.


    She thought she had no regrets. Yet at this moment, her mind was flooded with all the things she hadn''t done.


    She hadn''t started the slum redevelopment, hadn''t kept Scott safe, hadn''t read the new script Kevin wanted to show her, hadn''t bought a house for Chloe, nor Wyatt his favorite cotton candy.


    She still hadn''t eaten the lollipop Eric had given her before. Sharon wanted her to apany her to choose outfits for the film festival. Christopher''spany was about to go public. Theo had invited her for a game of chessst week. Cody and the others were waiting for her to n how to secure the sports arena project. It felt like there was still so much left to do... The cartoon figure she''d made for Keh was still not given to him. Whatever... Ophelia''s hands slowly rxed their grip on the chains, her eyelids feeling heavy.


    09:46


    A massive of ck SUV''s roated up from the base of the mountain. Phoebe turned her head and saw Keh and Jonathan getting out of the car together,


    With her expression froze, she thought, ''What is happening? Why are the two of them here together? They shouldn''t be...


    Phoebe''s face turned ghostly pale when she saw Chloe step out of the car.


    Chloe was actually back. Not being able to get rid of her was Phoebe''s biggest mistake.


    mes shot into the sky, threatening to consume the whole warehouse. Everyone''s eyes reflected the zing fire.


    The old machinery in the warehouse exploded, sending mes everywhere, a huge fireball reaching the sky.


    A group of bodyguards from the car immediately raised their pistols and surrounded the people at the warehouse entrance. Jonathan marched forward and kicked Phoebe. "Who gave you the nerve? Where is Ophelia? Where is she?" Phoebe was kicked to the ground, her arm injured, and she rolled helplessly on the floor.


    She got up and looked at the warehouse, her eyes full of pride. She thought, ''So what if theye now. It is toote. Ophelia was doomed!''


    Jonathan could barely resist shooting her, but saving Ophelia was more important at the moment.


    Chloe stared intently at the warehouse, her face turning pale. She thought, ''No! Elia couldn''t be inside, couldn''t be...


    "What are you standing around for?! Put out the fire! Put it out!" Chloe immediately ordered her team to put out the fire, but the mes were shooting up into the sky, spewing thick ck smoke. It couldn''t be put out.


    The Davidson family''s staff had never seen Chloe so panicked. They quickly took out the car fire extinguishers and started spraying the burning warehouse.


    But it was like trying to put out a raging fire with a ss of water. It waspletely useless.


    Keh stood as if his legs were weighed down with lead, his face expressionless, while the sses with gold rims reflected the zing fire.


    Apart from the crackling of the mes around him, he seemed to hear nothing else. His heart felt numb long ago, and it seemed like his blood was flowing backward..


    No, his little one would be fine. He forced himself to move and pulled Phoebe up from the ground. "Ophelia isn''t in there, right? Tell me she''s not!"


    His voice was hoarse, and he had never been this breathless before. "I''m asking you, is Ophelia not in there? Speak!"


    Phoebe clutched at the wound that ached from being pulled. For the first time, she saw Keh being so self-deluding, his eyes glowing red from the firelight, veins visible.


    She had never seen Keh like this before. He had never looked at her with such hope and love.


    Suddenly, Phoebe found it absurd and ended upughing out loud.


    She coughed and said, "Keh Sinir, are you deceiving yourself? You''re soughable because how could Ophelia not be in there? She''s right inside. She''s in there, and by now, she''s probably reduced to ashes..." Keh suddenly let go, but Phoebe held his arm tightly, refusing to let go.


    She continued, "It was the Davidson siblings who made me do all this. If you''re looking to me someone, me them! They''re the ones who killed Ophelia..."


    "Phoebe!" Jonathan growled


    9


    Phoebeughed even more crazily. "Ophelia Sinir is dead! Keh... Back then, I loved you so much... Yet you kept hurting me.... I wanted Ophelia to die so you''d finally notice me, love me...


    "If it weren''t for Ophelia, I''d be the one marrying you... It would be me..."


    Keh pushed her aside and walked step by step towards the warehouse.


    "Mr. Sinir!" Chloe tried to stop him, but with the explosion sound, Jonathan held her back.


    The ground around them trembled.


    95%


    10


    "Mr. Sinir, you can''t go any further!" Caleb and Barrett, who had been tackling the fire, immediately stopped what they were doing and blocked Keh''s path from either side.


    The firelight caught Keh''s features, making them even more defined.


    They said, "Mr. Sinir, we''re putting out the fire. Mrs. Sinir, she''s going to be okay."

 Jilted Bride 288

    These words were just deceiving oneself. With such a big fire, no one would still be alive.


    Keh used all his strength to break free from the two men, rushing into the fire like a madman, ignoring everything. He looked like he was heading towards death. "Mr. Sinir!" The two men rushed over again, each holding onto one of Keh''s legs.


    Keh staggered, his eyes reflecting the ze, turning crimson as if they were about to bleed. With a hoarse voice, he shouted, "Elia... Elia..."


    At that moment, he realized he shouldn''t have been so heartless to leave her alone. He thought that by paving the way for her, her life would be smooth sailing.


    But he was wrong. The moment he pushed her away, she must-have felt so desperate.


    The mes reflected in Keh''s despairing eyes, the growing fire seemed like it would consume his very soul.


    "Mr. Sinir..." Caleb and Barrett quickly tackled Keh to the ground.


    The entire warehouse roof copsed with a loud crash, sparks flying everywhere. The burning heat stung his skin.


    Keh pushed himself up, watching everything fall apart in front of him. It felt like hisst bit of hope had also crumbled


    away.


    **


    With Fiona supporting her, Ophelia limped down the mountain, seeing Keh kneeling in front of the zing fire. His ck shirt had two holes burned through the sleeves.


    The fire flickered between them, and she suddenly remembered a past life, seeing him kneeling beside her. That once proud and tall figure seemed to droop, like life had been drained from him. Those usually proud phoenix eyes now looked lifeless and filled with despair, silent and still like death.


    He whispered softly, as if all hope had left him. "Little one... I was wrong... wait for me, please wait for me..."


    Ophelia slowly walked up to him. "What did you do wrong?"


    She bent down, her small hands dirty and bloodied, gently touching Keh''s head. Her tone held no trace of reproach; instead, it was tender, as if the wind could easily blow it away. Hearing the familiar voice, Keh quickly lifted his head, seeing Ophelia''s face illuminated by the fire''s glow.


    Her cheeks were pale with a hint of red, and a dried blood mark added a strangely captivating look to her pure face. She stood right before him.


    Tears streamed down, and he struggled to get up to hug her, but seeing her covered in injuries, he feared hurting her. His trembling hands quickly withdrew, like a child in panic.


    Seeing Keh like this made Ophelia''s heart ache suddenly; any remaining anger she had vanished instantly.


    She raised her hand to wipe away the tears from his cheek. She gently caressed his face, the ring on her fourth finger, one she never removed, was still there.


    Keh held her hand that rested on his cheek, wearing the ring she had given him, a gift he couldn''t bear to lose.


    95%1


    His eyes, behind the lenses, once again held a gaze full of tenderness as he looked at her. For the first time in a long time, he was this close to her.


    He missed her so much. And she missed Keh just as much.


    Ophelia said, "Keh, I may not be this lucky every time..."


    She thought, ''Next time, he may really not get to see me. Is he sure he wants to keep causing trouble?''


    Keh''s brow furrowed in distress as he gently brushed the skin beneath Ophelia''s wound with his fingertip. "I''m sorry... Does it hurt a lot?"


    He asked as if referring to her wound, yet it seemed like he was also asking if she was hurt when he pushed her away.


    Ophelia nodded. It was really hurt to her. She couldn''t bear to blink, her other small hand gripping the corner of his shirt tightly, as if afraid he might run away again.


    Chloe still had tear marks on her face, but seeing the two people at the site of the fire, her heart finally felt at ease. She withdrew her gaze, with her eyes resting on Phoebe beside her. Phoebe''s eyes widened as she kept shaking her head. "No, it''s impossible! How can this be? How could Ophelia still be alive..."


    "The Davidson family needs to be sorted out too." Chloe said in a harsh tone.


    Jonathan took a deep breath at Chloe''s words, pulling his gaze back from the two people in the distance.


    "Aren''t you fond of setting fires? Then burn yourself," hemented casually.


    "No, please! Jonathan, Emma! I''m begging you, and I''m part of the Davidson family..." Phoebe was kneeling on the ground, pleading continuously. She didn''t know why things liked this. "Davidson family? You think you deserve to call yourself one of us?" Fiona came over, unable to believe in her wildest dreams that after all her hard work for Phoebe, she would be the target of such a brutal attack.


    If it hadn''t been for Ophelia, she would have almost died in that fire.


    Fiona confessed everything she had done, one thing after another. The first time was at the club entrance, the second was hiring someone to start a fire, and the third was directly hiring an assassin.


    On the surface, it looked like the attack was aimed at Ophelia, but it was actually intended to kill Chloe. All of it was a plot to take Chloe''s life.


    Upon hearing those words, Jonathan kicked Phoebe on the ground in anger.


    "How dare youy a hand on my sister! Where did you get the guts? Throw her in!" Jonathan ordered his men, ring at the zing fire. This woman was simply despicable.


    Ophelia limped over. "Where''s Scott?"


    Keh and Chloe were on each side, supporting her. "Don''t worry, Elia. He has been rescued." Ophelia breathed a sigh of relief.


    Suddenly, Phoebe realized something and broke away from the bodyguards, shouting towards Ophelia, "Ophelia, even if you''re still alive, Keh is almost dead! The poison has spread to his brain. It won''t be long before he dies."


    "Don''t listen to her nonsense." Keh murmured, pulling Ophelia closer by her shoulder to keep her from paying attention to Phoebe. "Let''s get to the hospital first."


    "Is that true? Don''t lie to me." Ophelia held Keh''s arm firmly, her eyes eagerly searching for the truth.


    95%


    In the past, she might not have believed Phoebe''s nonsense. But thinking back on everything that happened, if it was true, it all exined why Keh acted that way towards her before. She nced at Keh. Their eyes met, and in his gaze, she found the answer.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Her throat tightened as she suddenly remembered that Keh had once mentioned how his mother had tested a cure on herself to save Denex from a disaster.


    She thought, ''Can it be that the toxin has been inside Keh''s body all along?''


    "I have a way to save him, but if you kill me, you''ll be destroying hisst chance at living." Phoebe shouted with all her strength, unwilling to give in.


    Ophelia shook off the support from Keh and Chloe, confidently striding toward Phoebe. Jonathan immediately ordered his men to stop dragging Phoebe. Knowing she wasn''t going to die, Phoebe suddenly burst intoughter. "Wanna know?"


    "Tell me! What''s the n?" Ophelia didn''t bother with any words and just grabbed her by the cor.


    If Keh had a way, he certainly wouldn''t just push her aside like that.


    Even with her messy appearance, Ophelia''s eyes remained fierce. "Spill it!" Her voice was hoarse and her eyes were illuminated by the fire''s glow.

 Jilted Bride 289

    Seeing Ophelia like this, Phoebeughed hysterically. In her eyes, the fear of death was gone, leaving only smugness mixed with deep dissatisfaction.


    She was so close to seeding-killing Ophelia, then using Keh''s influence to wipe out the Davidson family. Then she could save Keh''s life using this n. By that time, Keh couldn''t help but repay her for saving him, and they could live happily together.


    But all her ns were ruined, and she just couldn''t ept it.


    Phoebe pressed her lips together, saying nothing, looking triumphantly at Ophelia, who knew the truth but was helpless. "Are you gonna beg me? If you beg, I''ll tell you."


    Ophelia clenched her fingers tighter around her cor, her knuckles turning white. Suddenly, arge hand reached over and held hers.


    The warmth from Keh''s palm gradually wrapped around her cold little hand. Ophelia looked up, meeting the deep eyes behind his sses.


    "Be good, and let''s go to the hospital first," he said softly and gently.


    Seeing the injuries all over Ophelia, Keh felt like a piece of his heart had been torn away. His woman would not be threatened like this. Ophelia refused to let go, gritting her teeth stubbornly. She thought, ''How can I have been so foolish to only realize it now?" Ophelia''s bright, clear eyes, like those of a deer, were illuminated by the firelight, showing a streak of determination. Keh gently ruffled her hair and said, "I''m not dying that easily. Trust me, I know the method she mentioned." "Really?" Ophelia looked into his eyes; he wasn''t lying to her. She gradually calmed down and withdrew her hand. Keh pulled her into his arms, giving Phoebe on the ground a cold stare, as if looking at a dead person.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Chloe observed the situation, thought for a moment, and then ordered her subordinates to first take the people back. "Wait!" Jonathan stopped them. "Just letting her off after setting such a big fire would be a waste."


    Jonathan''s voice had an eerie chill, like a snake hissing.


    Just a moment ago, Phoebe felt relieved to have saved her life, but now her eyes were filled with nothing but fear when she looked at Jonathan. Jonathan let out a quietugh; he hated being made a fool of, and this damn woman dared to use him. He couldn''t possibly swallow this insult. "J-Jonathan, please don''t! I-I know I was wrong..." Phoebe stammered with terror in her eyes.


    Jonathan was not one to show mercy or pity, especially not in situations like this.


    Everyone watched as Jonathan dragged Phoebe by her hair, like she was nothing more than livestock.


    "No... Help me! I''ll tell you... It''s the poison bug... The poison bug..." But even if she confessed, it was already toote.


    Jonathan didn''t pause as he brutally pressed her head into the zing fire. Phoebe''s anguished screams echoed throughout the base of the mountain. Chapter 289


    Phoebe''s face was utterly destroyed, burned beyond recognition After a couple of cries, she passed out from the agony.


    It was only after all this that Jonathan instructed someone to take her away. He thought, ''The Davidson family''s dog should die on Davidsonnd. Outsiders have no right to interfere


    Jonathan casually wiped his fingers with a handkerchief, his eyes briefly passing over Ophelia as he walked back. It seemed he was avenging her.


    However, Ophelia''s gaze was fixed on Keh. "What was Phoebe saying just now? What''s a poison bug?"


    Just hearing "poison bug" sent chills down anyone''s spine. However, Ophelia''s entire focus was on Keh.


    Chloe exined, "Poison bug, it''s a secret remedy passed down from a legendary family of pharmacologists. It''s an insect carefully nurtured with 76 different toxins, able to enter one''s body and absorb various harmful substances, but..." Chloe sighed and said, "I''ve heard that the method to nurture these poisonous insects has long been lost. Plus, it takes a long time to raise them. It would take at least thirty years to cultivate a mature batch."


    In other words, even if they found the legendary family, they might not be able to find a matured batch of these nurtured


    insects.


    Thirty years, Keh''s poison had already spread to his brain; he couldn''t possibly wait that long.


    Ophelia almost couldn''t support herself on one leg. "A family of pharmacologists?" she murmured softly to herself.


    She thought, ''Isn''t Keh''s mother the daughter of the famed pharmacologist family? If that''s the case, can Ivy possibly know how to nurture these poisonous insects?"


    A glimmer of hope sparked in her eyes. Just by looking into her eyes, Keh knew what she was thinking. "Let''s go to the hospital first." Her injury was serious.


    Before Ophelia could speak, Keh carefully picked her up into his arms, being as gentle as possible.


    The car headed towards the hospital. On the way, Keh checked her injuries, his expression bing even darker. He thought, ''How could I have let Phoebe off so easily earlier?''


    It was dark outside. After they arrived at the hospital, Ophelia was scheduled for a full examination. Besides some deep cuts, she had countless tiny injuries.


    Fortunately, there were no broken bones, and she only needed to stay in the hospital for two days for observation.


    The news was kept very tight, and besides those present, nobody else, including the Carnegie family and others, were informed.


    "Get some sleep." Keh said, sitting by her bedside.


    Ophelia could feel her eyelids growing heavy, yet she stubbornly refused to close them.


    "No, I''m afraid that once I fall asleep, you''ll leave me again or... send me away." She held tightly onto Keh''s coat.


    She couldn''t forget that thest time she entered the guild alone, she had seen him right before she fainted. Yet, when she woke up, she was on a ne headed back home. She was scared that when she opened her eyes again, he wouldn''t be there with her. She was afraid it was all just a dream. After waking up, he wouldn''t want her anymore. Hearing Ophelia''s words, it felt like Keh''s heart was being torn apart, aching unbearably. "I''m not leaving, so don''t worry. I''d rather die than leave your side." 09:46 Thu, Dec 5 G


    Upon hearing this, Ophelia''s eyes instantly filled with tears. "No way! Don''t talk about dying. If you dare to die, I''ll follow you."


    2


    Just like in the past life, when he followed her. No, that''s not right


    Ophelia suddenly changed her tone, "No way! If you die, I''ll inherit your fortune and be the youngest billionaire in Heloria. Then I''ll enjoy my life with a bunch of hot guys!"


    "How dare you?" Keh frowned as the image of the man who dropped her off at the office suddenly popped into his mind.


    He adjusted his gold-rimmed sses on his nose, a sharp look glinting in his eyes. "Who was the guy with the BMW who dropped you off at the office before?"


    "What?" Ophelia was taken aback by his sudden change in topic, raising an eyebrow slightly.


    After a moment, she looked at the proud man in front of her and let out a soft chuckle.

 Jilted Bride 290

    Chapter 290 95%8


    "Keh Sinir, are you stalking me?" Ophelia raised an eyebrow, her tone casual, and her beautiful eyes carrying a hint of


    amusement.


    Keh crossed his arms and leaned against the couch by the hospital bed, his chin slightly raised, showing his usual arrogance. "So what?"


    If he hadn''t been following her, he wouldn''t know she had ridden in another man''s car.


    "So... were you at the city hall that day?" Ophelia asked, her heart skipping a beat involuntarily.


    Meeting her nervous eyes, Keh gave a slight nod and lowered his gaze. "Yes."


    Of course, he went. In his heart, he felt as if he''d already gotten the marriage license with his little one.


    Ophelia thought, ''So, he was there all along? So, that night at the bar, I wasn''t mistaken? Was that man really Keh?


    Countless times when she thought he wasn''t around, he was by her side. She trusted him and never doubted him from the start.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    "You still haven''t answered my question. Who was that guy?" Keh insisted, leaning forward with his hands on the edge of the bed.


    He gently lifted Ophelia''s chin with his finger. She could feel how carefully he applied pressure with his fingers.


    Ophelia calmly exined, "Just a neighbor, that''s all."


    With his jealous nature, he pushed her away but couldn''t help secretly following her, watching her, and feeling quietly jealous.


    She thought, ''How did he manage to hold back? And, how much courage did it take for him to let go and push me away?'' Thinking about this, she felt a pang of heartache.


    "How did you know I was in danger this time? Did Chloe find you?" When she escaped the fire and saw Chloe, she had a hunch. She didn''t expect Jonathan to be there too.


    Mentioning Chloe, Keh lowered his gaze, thinking about how to tell Ophelia about her identity when there was a knock on the hospital room door. "Mr. Sinir, Ms. Stevens wants toe in and see Mrs. Sinir." "Tell her she''s already asleep." Keh replied indifferently.


    Without waiting for Ophelia to say anything, he pulled the nket over them, carefully avoiding her injuries, and held her gently in his arms. "You need to rest now. I''m here with you and not leaving."


    Ophelia''s restless heart finally foundfort. She adjusted her position,ying her head on Keh''s arm and nestling close to his chest.


    Listening to his strong, steady heartbeat, she feltpletely at ease. Yet, her small hand still held tightly to the hem of his


    shirt.


    She must have been really frightened. Keh pressed a kiss onto her forehead, gentlyforting her by rubbing her back with his hand.


    He said, "Little one, have you thought it through? Do you know what you''ll be facing if you stay with me?"


    He didn''t know when he might go blind and be unable to see her, or when his life would end. He wasn''t sure how long he could be with her. Chapter 290


    Dec


    @.95%


    "Consider it." Keh stressed each word, his dark, deep eyes constantly looking into the eyes of Ophelia in his arms. She knew about his illness, and she still had the opportunity to change her mind. "I have thought it through. I''ve known for a long time."


    He underestimated her feelings for him. She wouldn''t let him die


    If that day ever came, no matter if it''s heaven or hell, she''d go with him.


    Ophelia was truly exhausted, and holding out till now was already her limit. She buried her head in Keh''s chest, listening to his heartbeat, and soon fell asleep. She''d never slept so soundly before. Keh watched Ophelia in his arms throughout the night.


    The next morning, Ophelia slept until dawn. She opened her eyes and immediately met Keh''s elegant and deep gaze. He was still there with her.


    She thought, ''Does he watch me the entire night without sleeping?''


    Unable to resist, Ophelia snuggled closer, rubbing her cheek against his chest like they had on countless mornings before.


    "Does your wound hurt?" he asked.


    Ophelia shook her head. She could endure it.


    "What would you like to eat? I can have someone get breakfast for us." His deep morning voice had a hoarse, cello-like maism. "What time is it?"


    "It''s still early. Go back to sleep a bit longer." Keh murmured, gently brushing the stray hair from her face.


    He cupped her face and kissed the corner of her mouth. He was so careful, treating her like a rare gem, afraid of hurting her.


    Judging by the sun''s position, it actually wasn''t that early anymore.


    She couldn''t stay in bed any longer. Keh couldn''t afford any dys; now that she had a way, she needed to quickly find the poison bug for him.


    Outside the door, Caleb gently knocked twice and whispered, "Mr. Sinir, Ms. Stevens is at the door and would like to see


    Mrs. Sinir."


    "Let her in." Ophelia said, speaking before Keh could say anything.


    Keh got up, adjusted his clothes, and sat back in the chair by the bed.


    Chloe came in with Wyatt, carrying a thermal food box in her hand.


    Wyatt ran to Ophelia''s bedside, looking at her hand with the IV tape on it. He gently held it in his chubby little hands and said, "Ophelia, does it hurt?"


    "No, it doesn''t hurt. Ophelia said, ruffling his hair, then looked at Chloe. "Thank you, Chloe."


    Every time she encountered troubles, she bothered Chloe. If it weren''t for Chloe finding Keh, Ophelia and Keh might not have cleared the air so quickly. And they might be apart longer. "Eat something first." Chloe said, cing the insted food boxes on the dining table and setting the breakfast and light


    porridge in front of her


    "Mr. Sinir, you should eat something too." Chloe invited Keh.


    Keh said, "Thank you for your kind offer, Ms. Davidson."


    As Keh finished speaking, Ophelia paused, looking at Keh and then at Chloe. She thought, ''Ms. Davidson?''

 Jilted Bride 291

    Chloe stood by the bed, not intending to hide anything anymore She looked at the puzzled girl on the hospital bed and softly said, "I''m sorry, Elia, for always hiding my identity from you. Actually... my name is Emma Davidson." Emma Davidson. As those three words came from Chloe''s lips, her deep blue eyes met Ophelia''s gaze, making everything


    clear.


    Taking a closer look at Chloe''s features, her sharp, well-defined facial angles and aloof, big eyes bore a distinct resemnce. to Jonathan''s eyes and brows.


    However, Jonathan''s brows and eyes were thicker, and his features were more rugged, yet their bone structure was remarkably simr. So Chloe really was a part of the Davidson family.


    "I''m sorry." Chloe apologized sincerely. This apology was not only for keeping it a secret for so long but also on behalf of Jonathan.


    After all, if it weren''t for Jonathan pulling strings behind the scenes, Phoebe wouldn''t have had it so easy.


    "It''s no big deal, Chloe, it''s just... a bit unexpected." Ophelia raised an eyebrow. She needed a moment to process it.


    No wonder Chloe was such a skilled hacker, and no wonder Keh found her so quickly at Jonathan''s base. Keh really was right.


    In all the time she''d known Chloe, she''d always had suspicions about her true identity, even before Keh''s hint, she''d guessed it.


    Shepletely trusted Chloe, believing that when Chloe was ready to tell her, she would, so she never pressed her, just like Chloe trusted her unconditionally.


    She never expected Chloe''s identity to be so special, that she was actually the real Ms. Davidson of the Davidson family. No wonder back then, during her first investigation into the Davidson family, Chloe reacted that way.


    It''s likely that when they initially gave her the information, they intentionally withheld her own identity details. But none of that mattered.


    "I''m sorry you got hurt. I''ll make sure you and Mr. Sinir get an exnation." Chloe said seriously. Phoebe had already faced the consequences, but Jonathan needed to be ountable for his actions as well.


    Chloe said, "I''ll ensure Jonathan gets married soon, and he won''t have any more ideas about you or the transport lines in the Denex. You can rx."


    Chloe nced at Ophelia lying on the bed. She was doing this not just for Ophelia, but also for the Davidson family. Hearing this, Keh gave Chloe an extra look, surprised at her significant concession. After all, the Davidson family had always been eyeing Heloria''s resources over the years.


    "So, what''s your purpose in getting close to Noah?" Keh''s sharp eyes focused on Chloe.


    "I didn''t intentionally approach him." Chloe countered, frowning slightly.


    Whether it was five years ago or five yearster, she never made a deliberate effort to get close to Noah.


    She bore the burden of the Davidson family. After learning about the feud between the West and Davidson families, all she could do was to bnce the rtionship between them.


    But no one could really know when love would arrive. Once emotions were involved, she became very cautious, trying hard


    to hide her identity for fear of losing everything. But in the end, the truth couldn''t be hidden forever.


    Back then, when Noah announced he was going to Denex, even though she didn''t know why, she followed him, hoping to exin herself. But just as she arrived in Denex, she heard about Noah''s ne crash,


    She thought Noah was gone and wanted to apany him. Later, it was Ophelia who saved her. Then, it was Wyatt who gave her the courage to keep living.


    Even after sheter learned that Noah was still alive, she didn''t think about going to find him again.


    She thought Noah hadn''t contacted her because he was still upset with her, never imagining that he had lost his memory.


    If she hadn''t seen him again at Rosewood Manor, she would have just wanted to live a calm and steady life with Wyatt..


    After a brief silence in the hospital room, Chloe picked up Wyatt from the floor and looked at Ophelia. "I''ll help you find out more about ''Poison bug! Meanwhile, take care of yourself and rest well."


    She knew Ophelia well enough to understand that if they didn''t quickly find the information for her, she wouldn''t be able to rest and recover properly.


    Now that Ophelia knew Chloe''s identity, she also realized how impossible a rtionship with Noah was. Her heart ached for Chloe.


    After Chloe left, she nced at Keh. "Clearly, it was Noah who was infatuated with Chloe."


    Keh nced at the breakfast on the table, not interested in meddling in other people''s issues. "Yes, your Chloe is the


    couldn''t be any more jealous. best." His tone was so bitter, like h


    Chloe had just left when Scott arrived. He stood against the wall, like a guilty child, afraid to even nce at Ophelia on the bed.


    He didn''t know what happened afterward; he only knew Ophelia was badly injured, and he was helpless to stop it.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    Ophelia had someone retrieve some documents from thepany and handed them to Scott. She said to Scott, "These twopanies were bought at auction after the Hastings family went bankrupt. "You own thirty percent of the shares in each, and I''ve transferred some of the previous real estate to your name.


    "Regarding the things you want to ask about, I don''t deny them, but I hope you wait until your memory returns to make your own judgments before deciding."


    Looking at the documents handed to him, Scott felt a whirlwind of emotions. He had mentally prepared himself beforeing. He trusted Ophelia. Unless Ophelia no longer wanted him as


    brother, no matter what, he would never abandon her.


    Even if he lost his memory, with things all jumbled up, and he couldn''t remember some things. But the feelings in his heart wouldn''t change.


    Ophelia said, "For now, focus on school. You


    stay on campus


    "Okay." Scott nodded, looking like he had more to say.


    "What''s wrong?


    Scott lowered his eyes and took a deep breath, as if he was making a big decision. "Ophelia, honestly... I don''t want to get my memory back. I feel like things are just fine the way they


    are now


    Forgetting everything about the past might have been a blessing in disguise for him.


    When Phoebe showed him those pictures, he vaguely started remembering some bits about his injury.


    He almost remembered how he had been abandoned. There were even some scattered fragments that made him feel uneasy when he thought about them. So he really didn''t want to remember. Ophelia was surprised by his words, a hint of astonishment in her eyes. "Really don''t want to know?"


    "No, I don''t want to. All I know is that having you as my sister is enough." Scott said firmly.


    Perhaps due to the memory gap, he trusted the feelings in his heart even more.


    Ophelia looked at him with a gentle smile. "Alright, I respect your decision."


    81%0


    Only then did Scott dare to openly lift his head, looking at Ophelia on the hospital bed. A smile gradually appeared on his lips, his eyes clear and pure.


    For the past two days, Ophelia was in the hospital recovering, and Keh stayed by her side, never leaving. Even when she needed to use the bathroom, he would carry her there. "Can you please step outside?" Ophelia sat on the toilet, feeling a bit embarrassed as she looked at Keh beside her.

 Jilted Bride 292

    GIFT


    81%


    "What haven''t I seen of you already? Getting shy now?" He even had seen her standing in front of him without any clothes. Keh leaned against the bathroom wall, showing no intention of leaving. There was amusement in his eyes as he casually adjusted his gold- rimmed sses. His attitude seemed to say, "Go ahead. I''m watching!"


    Ophelia took a deep breath and kept her head down, avoiding his eyes. Next time, she''d hop to the bathroom on one leg rather than let him carry her.


    Seeing she didn''t move, Keh suddenly crouched in front of her, looking up at Ophelia with curious eyes. "What''s wrong? Need a hand?"


    He wanted to help her take off her pants! Ophelia gave him an eye-roll and lightly pushed him. "No need!"


    Heat rushed to her cheeks immediately. She thought, "That darn man, naturally, he returns to his shameless ways. Has the poison really spread to his brain? Can''t it just clear out the bad stuff in there?"


    After exiting the bathroom, Keh began checking her injuries. Apart from two deep wounds on her leg from the arrow storm, there were just some minor cuts.


    The small scratch on her cheek had already scabbed over as Keh carefully applied ointment to it with a cotton swab. The wound on her shoulder was in a simr condition.


    As Keh''s cool fingers lightly brushed over her skin, Ophelia flinched slightly.


    "Don''t move." His careful examination of her wounds gave the impression of a true gentleman.


    The shame from being stared at by Keh suddenly reminded Ophelia of something. "Keh, earlier... did you really think the pajamas I was wearing didn''t look good?" She had gathered all her courage to wear them for him.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    It was the only time she had been so forting, yet hepletely rejected her, and she remembered it to this day.


    Keh paused, recalling the time during the ind vacation when she wore that ck V-neckce nightgown.


    His sharp eyes narrowed under his sses, focusing on Ophelia on the bed as he let out a soft breath. He thought she could never not be beautiful.


    At that time, if she had sat on hisp for even a second longer, he wouldn''t have been able to keep up the pretense. She really had himpletely captivated.


    He pulled his gaze away and continued to apply the ointment to her with a serious expression. "Forgotten, try wearing it again sometime." His voice was calm, as if he truly didn''t remember, but his Adam''s apple betrayed him. Ophelia let out a light hum through her nose. "In your dreams." There was no way she would wear that again.


    Ophelia said, "Do you know the saying goes, ''Miss this chance and it''s gone forever?"


    Keh didn''t say anything. After finishing bandaging her wound and securing the medical gauze, he got up and exhaled softly near her earlobe. "Actually... you look even better without it." Suddenly, Ophelia''s cheeks turned burning red again. She thought, ''Look at this guy; he''s not even pretending anymore. It felt like it had been ages since shest heard him talk this way. Keh''s breath wandered along her neck, sending pleasant shivers through Ophelia''s body. He propped himself up on the pillow beside her, his fingertips gently tracing the outline of her face. Ophelia said, "What are you doing? I..."


    0.40


    81%


    Keh lowered his head, capturing her soft lips, delivering a gentle yetmanding kiss. He kissed her so carefully, with a tenderness that seemed almost unreal.


    Their breaths mingled, weaving through the air between them.. Ophelia lifted her hand to wrap around his neck, responding in kind.


    Under his sses, his deep eyes grew darker, filled with longing. After a moment, Keh paused, burying his face in the crook of her neck, taking a deep breath and slowly exhaling. "Sleep," he muttered reluctantly. His rational mind reminded him that she was still recovering from her injury and shouldn''t exert herself.


    Ophelia panted softly, held securely in his arms. "Really?" Ophelia''s small hand rested on his waist.


    Keh stayed silent, while Ophelia gradually moved closer to him, feeling sleepiness oveing her. She wasn''t sure how much time had passed when she drowsily heard a deep, soothing voice near her ear.


    He said, "Actually... you were stunning that day, strikingly gorgeous. I''m sorry... for making you feel so upset back then." He softly kissed her forehead, frowning with concern.


    "Well... I forgive you. Once you''re better, I''ll wear it just for you. Ophelia murmured, her lips barely moving as she snuggled deeper into Keh''s arms, her heavy eyelids shutting.


    For the past few days, while she was recovering, Keh had been exercising great restraint. With sses on, Keh appeared very proper and serious.


    Ophelia also realized that since he started wearing sses, his eyesight had been getting worse. Without his sses, even if she was right in front of him, he couldn''t see her clearly. Everything was a blur, near or far. On the day she left the hospital, Keh had someone bring a wheelchair. Ophelia recognized the wheelchair; it was the one Keh had used when he pretended to be inconvenient to walk.


    "I can actually walk, so there''s really no need for all this fuss." Sitting in the wheelchair made her feel like she was actually inconvenient to walk.


    Especially since Keh lifted her into it, making her feel like a wife who''s been taken care of by her husband for years. Keh said, "The doctor said to avoid moving as much as possible, so you need to rest properly." Ophelia was speechless and thought, ''Avoid moving as much as possible? The exercise from walking isn''t even as intense as what they did in bed. How can he say that with a straight face?''


    Knowing she couldn''t win against him and that reasoning was futile, she let Keh push her along.


    They didn''t go straight back to Rosewood Manor but first went to the ce she had been staying recently to pick up some things.


    "So this is where you live?" Keh let out a soft snort, a dark expression beneath the brim of his ck baseball cap. Living right under his nose made it easy for him to find her.


    Keh guided Ophelia into the elevator. He wore a ck suit, followed by Caleb and Barrett, two burly men w... looked quite intimidating


    With the four of them inside, the elevator felt very cramped. The people behind hesitated to get on, casting looks at Ophelia in the wheelchair, as if expecting her to signal for help. Their expressions seemed to say, "Miss, if you''re being kidnapped, just blink once."


    Ophelia didn''t understand-their looks until the elevator doors closed, and she realized in the mirror why they had those expressions.


    Sitting in the wheelchair, it appeared as if she was being held hostage by the three men behind her. She worried that people outside might call the police.


    The elevator slowly rose to the floor where Ophelia lived. Keh nced at the door across the hall with a meaningful look.

 Jilted Bride 293

    After Ophelia finished getting her things and came out, she ran to Ethan waiting for the elevator.


    From afar, Ethan felt a sharp, cold gaze fix on him, like a wild beast eyeing prey, ready to pounce and devour him. That feeling sent shivers down his spine, like a prickly thorn on his back.


    He turned his head and met Keh''s gaze, feeling a thick tension that only men could sense.


    Keh''s features beneath the hat brim were sharply defined, radiating a strong,manding presence, as if everyone else was beneath him.


    After a two-second stare down, Ethan''s gaze lowered and noticed Ophelia in a wheelchair. He raised an eyebrow and asked curiously, "What happened to you?"


    The slight hint of concern made Keh even more displeased He purposely moved the wheelchair to break their eye


    contact.


    "Well... just a slight injury it''s no big deal. Thanks for asking." Ophelia turned her head slightly, with a faint smile on her lips. A sh of surprise appeared in Ethan''s eyes. When he met Ophelia''s clear, bright eyes, he was slightly taken aback. There was no denying it- Ophelia was stunningly beautiful and pure, captivating at first sight.


    Yet, her demeanor was cool and distant; even as her lips formed a smile, her eyes showed no trace ofughter, radiating polite detachment.


    mething different on her face her eyes sparkled like stars, and that smile was more It was the first time he noticed genuine, more captivating. It made him want to nce twice.


    The elevator arrived, and Keh immediately pushed Ophelia inside. Ethan peeked into the elevator and, realizing there wasn''t space for him, wisely stepped back. "You go ahead."


    Ophelia gave him a polite nod to show her thanks. The elevator was indeed quite spacious; one more person could easily fit. However, Keh stood blocking the entrance, clearly unwilling to make space for Ethan.


    She knew Keh''s nature well; if she spoke even one more word, Ethan might lose the chance to stay here. So it was wiser for her to stay silent.


    After they got downstairs, Keh lifted her from the wheelchair into the car.


    from many passersby.


    His striking presence drew curious nces


    Just after getting into the car, Ophelia vaguely heard someone whispering behind them. "That woman is so lucky. Even though she''s paralyzed, she has such a handsome man taking "Isn''t that the truth! It''s really quite something!" Ophelia was speechless. She knew that bein


    and walk around to show she was fine.


    care of her."


    in a wheelchair would draw this kind of attention. She almost wanted to get out


    *****


    Back at Rosewood Manor. Lisa''s smile was wide enough to reach her ears when she saw them return together.


    But then she was shocked to see Keh ce Ophelia in a wheelchair in the very next second.


    "Mrs. Sinir, what happened?" Lisa rushedContent ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    in a hurry, eyes wide with concern, as she looked over Ophelia in the


    wheelchair, spotting a bandage peeking out from her calf.


    81%


    "I''m fine, Lisa. Just a little injury. Ophelia sighed, ncing at Keh beside her. She thought there was no need to be so dramatic with the wheelchair.


    She thought, ''Great, now, on top of him pretending to be inconvenient back then, I''m "paralyzed" too. It''s just ridiculous.


    "Mr. Sinir! I''m just saying, Mrs. Sinir moved out less than a month ago and got hurt already. Why did it take you so long to bring her back?" Lisa couldn''t help but voice her frustration.


    It wasn''t until after she spoke that she realized how bold she was to talk to Keh that way. She immediately realized she was courting disaster.


    She pressed her lips together and stood aside, lowering her head too afraid to speak further.


    Lisa expected Keh to be upset, but surprisingly, he remained incredibly calm and said nothing as he pushed Ophelia into the vi.


    It was summer; the crabapple blossoms on either side of the yard were no longer as lush as in spring, now scattered sparsely on the green branches.


    In the living room, Keh bent down, picked up Ophelia from the wheelchair, and carried her up the stairs to the room.


    "I''m alright, and it''s tiring to always hold me like this." She still wasn''t sure about Keh''s health and was always worried he might get tired, which could affect his condition.


    Keh looked down at Ophelia in his arms. He thought, ''Is she underestimating me? Holding her is still pretty easy. If she hadn''t insisted on getting out of the car by herself, he would have just carried her inside. Keh said, "I want to." He just enjoyed holding her.


    Keh ced Ophelia onto the couch, but as soon as he stood up, she pushed him away with a look of disdain.


    Ophelia''s gaze


    was fixed keenly on the pair of cartoon dolls at the head of the bed. "Did you bring them back?"


    She had made this pair of little y figures by hand while on the ind, cing them by the bedside in their room. She never expected to see them again at the head of the bed in Rosewood Manor.


    Seeing Ophelia''s eyes light up, Keh''s gaze followed hers. She had made it to resemble him so closely that it was unmistakable.


    Charles noticed them while cleaning the room and sent him a photo. Concerned they might get damaged if mailed, he personally went to pick them up.


    "Why did you make yourself look so ugly?" Keh squatted down to meet Ophelia''s eyes. He gently ruffled her hair. She sculpted him to look great, yet kept herself so in.


    Ophelia nced at the transparent box holding the cartoon figures, her gaze froze for a moment, and then she immediately looked at Keh beside her.


    Her cartoon y figure wasn''t the one she had made herself. Although it looked quite simr, the one in the box now was much more detailed and refined.


    She hadn''t even noticed it earlier. She asked, "Did you make another one of me?"


    Keh didn''t say anything, which was as good as admitting it. In shock, she nced again at Keh''s prominent fingers.


    It was hard to imagine Keh sitting at a booth modeling y it was truly hard to picture.


    01%


    Keh let out a soft, slightly smugugh. Hisrge hand ruffled her hair. "My pretty girl, who told you to make her look so ugly?"


    As his words lingered, Ophelia''s smile hadn''t fully spread when she saw Keh stand up, swaying slightly. The eyes beneath the sses suddenly went out of focus. Ophelia''s heart skipped a beat. She immediately stood up to support Keh.


    "Can''t see clearly? It''s alright. I''m here. I''m here..." Ophelia embraced him, gently rubbing his back like he used tofort her. "It''s okay, I''m here..."


    This time the darkness lingered for quite a while. In the darkness, Keh held Ophelia tightly, like someone who''d fallen into the deep sea, clinging to a single piece of driftwood.


    He held her tightly. And it was so tight that Ophelia was almost out of breath, but she let him hold her.


    She could also sense Keh''s fear and panic at that moment. "It''s okay, Kennie... I''m here with you!"


    I

 Jilted Bride 294

    Ophelia held back the sharp sting in her nose and gently rubbed Keh''s broad back.


    After a long time, the light and shadows gradually returned to Keh''s vision. But everything was still incredibly blurry.


    When he realized he was holding Ophelia in front of him too tightly, he quickly let go.


    "Did I hurt you by holding too tightly?" Keh''s voice was hoarse, and his panicked expression waspletely different from his usual demeanor.


    Trying to see her clearly to check for injuries, he struggled due to her blurred outline. The feeling of helplessness made him clench his fists, trying to suppress the anxiety rising in his chest.


    He squeezed his eyes shut tightly. Suddenly, a vein on his forehead throbbed, threatening to burst and stress every nerve in his brain. The intense pain made him feel like his head was about to burst. "Kennie..." Ophelia furrowed her brow as she watched Keh''s pale face, feeling like her heart was being clenched.


    A vein on his temple bulged, and soon, sweat dotted his forehead.


    "Let me see you." Keh cupped her face, gazing at her affectionately for a long moment.


    A momentter, Keh''s deep, hoarse voice, full of powerlessness, whispered in her ear. "What should I do? I can''t see you clearly anymore."


    Each word was as heavy as a mountain, hitting Ophelia''s heart hard.


    "Don''t worry. I''m right here, not going anywhere," she said, holding Keh''s hand and gently tracing the outline of her cheek with his long fingers.


    His fingers slid over her skin, the cold tips enveloped in her warm little hands.


    Keh lowered his head, resting his forehead against Ophelia''s. He closed his eyes for a while, then opened them again. Through his sses, he could barely see Ophelia in front of him He tightly embraced Ophelia in his arms again, finally calming his mixed emotions.


    Ophelia said, "You haven''t been resting well these past few days. Let''s rest a bit after lunch, okay?"


    Keh replied, "Okay."


    After lunch. Ophelia usuallyid his arms. This time, she took the initiative, hugging Keh and letting him rest his head on herp.


    Her fingers gently stroked his cheek as she looked down at him. If a few strands of her hair fell, she would lift a hand and tuck them behind her ear. Keh watched her, not wanting to even blink.


    re of me these days. Ophelia said softly, lifting a hand to take off his "Get some sleep, since you''ve been busy taking care of me these days." Ophelia said softly, lifting a hand to take off his sses. "Okay." Keh let her do it. Once the sses were off, everything around him became blurry again.


    Keh simply closed his eyes, not looking at an


    while tightly holding the soft hand of Ophelia, cing it over his


    heart.


    Keh in her arms didn''t sleep peacefully. Whenever he furrowed his brow, Ophelia gently smoothed it with her other hand.


    Keh, with his unfurrowed brow, was incredibly handsome, especially when asleep. The sharp aura he usually had disappeared, and his long eyshes looked as delicate as a baby He appeared handsome from every angle. Without realizing it, Ophelia also fell asleep against the headboard. When she woke up, she found a nket covering her. Keh who had been resting his head on her legs was gone, and the sses were missing from the nightstand. In their ce was a note. [I''m going to the office to handle some business, and will be back to have dinner with you tonight- Keh.]


    It was indeed Keh''s handwriting, bold and grand, each letter carrying a hint of arrogance just like him.


    Ophelia held the edge of the note carefully and put it away carefully. She nced again at the other side of the bed, at the pair of cartoon y figures under the clear acrylic box.


    At the Sinir Group''s office. Keh sat in the office chair, his slender fingers holding a ck pen, the tip moving smoothly across the paper, writing line after line. He was exceptionally focused.


    Soon, Mark knocked on the office door. "Mr. Sinir, the items on your list have been bought, and some are being flown in from different parts of the country."


    Keh replied, "Alright."


    "Should I bring everything in?" Mark asked cautiously.


    "Yeah." Keh replied coldly, still focused on his writing.


    Mark had people ce dozens of items on the table next to him, almost forming a small mountain. The entire table couldn''t contain them all.


    He couldn''t quite grasp why Keh bought so many gifts for Ophelia. And he thought, ''Mr. Sinir is truly remarkable- his generosity toward his wife is unparalleled!" Mark asked, "Mr. Sinir, is there anything else you need me to do?"


    "Not for now, you can go." Keh said without even looking up, still focused on his work.


    [Happy 23rd birthday, Elia! Tonight, the starlight celebrates with you, and tomorrow the warm sunshine will be yourpanion.]


    [Happy 24th birthday, Elia! Year after year, I wish you a carefree life.]


    [Happy 25th birthday, Elia! Each year brings a new gift, and every moment is a joy.]


    [Happy 26th birthday, Elia...]


    [Happy 80th birthday, Elia. Don''te to join me too early...]


    [Happy New Year, Elia! Wishing you peace and happiness.]


    [Happy New Year, Elia! May everything go smoothly.]


    Keh neatly sorted all the handwritten cards into their respective gifts. There were birthday gifts for each year up to her S0th birthday, and New Year gifts for every year.


    If he was not around, he hoped these gifts could provide his little girl with somefort.


    He stayed in the office until the lights came on, finally putting down his pen. The sky outside was gradually getting darker.


    He adjusted his sses, capped his pen, and got up to grab his coat from the back of the chair.


    He promised Ophelia he would be back to have dinner with herContent ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    At Rosewood Manor, Ophelia sat on the couch with herptop, staying there from afternoon until night fell. All the information was sent by Chloe regarding the poison bug.


    "The Pharmacology family went into seclusion over twenty years ago. There hasn''t been any news about them in ages" Chloe''s voice came through the phone.


    Ophelia browsed through the documents Chloe had sent her. When she thought of Keh''s pained expression today, it felt like a heavy blow to her heart. She thought, ''Is there really no way?''


    Chloe said, "I made someone question Phoebe, but she only had shallow information about the poison bug, and as for Ivy She was Keh''s aunt.


    Chloe continued, "I heard that years ago, Ivy left the Pharmacology family in anger over a decision regarding their practice While there hasn''t been much news about them, there are many rumors about the poison bug.


    "They say there''s a vige near the Jenton border where people specialize in raising the poison bug. Since Jenton is close to the Delta region, an area gued with drugs, these bugs can apparently help some drug addicts quit. It''s just..." "Just not sure if these poison bugs are the same as the ones from the Pharmacology family, right?" Ophelia interrupted Chloe.


    "Yeah." Chloe replied.


    Regardless, if there''s even a sliver of hope, she needed to confirm it as soon as possible. She couldn''t afford to dy Keh''s treatment any longer.

 Jilted Bride 295

    After hanging up the call and looking at the information Chloe sent, Ophelia suddenly had a thought and found Ronin''s contact on WhatsApp. She called him with a voice call.


    The phone rang for a long time, and just when Ophelia thought Ronin on the other end wouldn''t answer, the call was finally picked up, and the timer started counting. "Hey, why did you suddenly call me?" Ronin, sounded a bit surprised.


    He thought, ''Does her man know she''s calling me?''


    "What''s up? Just tell me," he said seriously.


    "Sorry to bother you, Dr. West. I''m calling to ask for something," she said politely.


    "What is it? Just tell me."


    "Keh''s toxin pathology report." Ophelia got straight to the point, not wasting any time. She needed to understand the results of the toxins in Keh''s body. Ronin on the other end paused for a few seconds, "Well... you, you already know?"


    Ronin cleared his throat twice, wondering if she was testing him.


    "Yes, I know everything, and I''m not bluffing. I need the pathology report to find a treatment. Could you please send it to meter, Dr. West? Thank you."


    "Oh, all right." After Ronin hung up, he sent the report and paused for a moment.


    He thought, ''Why am I so obedient? That feeling is really strange


    Ophelia saved the pathology report and then looked up the locations of viges along the Jenton border.


    She nned to leave tomorrow, but she didn''t know how she should break the news to Keh. Her leg injury wasn''t fully healed yet, so Keh definitely wouldn''t let her go. She didn''t feelfortable leaving this matter to someone else. Just as she was thinking, car headlights shed outside Rosewood Manor. Ophelia turned her gaze and saw that Keh had returned. She decided to close herptop and set it aside before going downstairs for dinner.


    The maid had already prepared dinner. Ophelia leisurely held onto the stair rail as she walked down. She was halfway down the stairs when a tall figure took two stairs at a time to reach her.


    He hadn''t even had time to change his shoes yet. "Why didn''t you wait for me?" He intended to go up and carry her down. "It''s fine. I can manage on my own. My leg''s okay now." She didn''t want Keh to worry. Keh nced at her leg and, without a word, picked her up in his arms. Instinctively, Ophelia wrapped her arms around his neck, assuring him that she was really fine.


    "You''re treating me like I''m paralyzed or something."


    "If you were paralyzed in my arms, would you really be unhappy" Keh looked at Ophelia in his arms with a yful smile, his words hinting at deeper meanings.


    In the downstairs hall, Lisa and the other maids saw the coupleing down the stairs, discreetly looking away with knowing smiles. They thought, ''Mr. Sinir and Mrs. Sinir are just so in love. It''s almost too sweet. 1/3


    09:46


    Just by looking at their eyes, Ophelia could tell what they were thinking. It was kind of embarrassing. She leaned her cheek closer into his chest.


    Keh gave a soft chuckle through his nose, carried her to the dining room, ced her on the main dining chair, and sat down next to her. Usually, Lisa would serve the dishes, but this time Keh did it himself. He took off his jacket, rolled up the sleeves of his ck shirt to his forearms, his strong arms extending to his well-defined hands.


    With his long fingers holding the chopsticks, he filled her te with all her favorite dishes.


    One moment, she felt like she was paralyzed, the next she felt like Keh was treating her like a pampered pet. "That''s enough, that''s enough, and I can''t eat all that."


    Keh ignored her protests, peeling shrimp for her and cing them into her bowl one by one. Watching him peel shrimp was simply a delightful sight.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Keh nced at her, his brow furrowing slightly as if something had crossed his mind.


    Seeing his frown, Ophelia thought he was feeling unwell and urgently asked, "What''s wrong? Are you feeling ufortable?"


    "No." He thought that Ophelia had lost weighttely, her chin had be more pointed. Without him around, she didn''t eat properly.


    "From now on... you need to eat well. Do you hear me?" Even if he was not around, she should eat well and sleep properly.


    Ophelia felt a sharp pang in her heart, like a piece of her had been ripped out. It felt like he was saying hisst words. At the table, the silence was so heavy it was hard to breathe. "Yeah." Ophelia nodded as she began to quickly eat her food.


    These were all her favorites, yet each bite was hard to swallow. She was genuinely afraid Keh would leave her.


    After dinner, they went upstairs, and just like at the hospital, Keh carried her to the bath. He knelt down and carefully covered her wound with a waterproof medical patch.


    As soon as he stood up, Ophelia in front of him wrapped her arms around his neck. Ophelia pushed him against the wall, pulled his neck down, and kissed his thin lips on tiptoe. A sweet, girlish scent filled the air.


    Keh froze, looking down at her. Watching her eyshes quiver like butterfly wings. His Adam''s apple bobbed, and his gaze grew deeper. Even after all this time, her kissing skills hadn''t improved at all. So he took charge.


    Keh wrapped his arms around her waist, worried her injured leg couldn''t stand the strain for long, so he lifted her slightly to ease the pressure.


    His lips moved down to her neck, making Ophelia tilt her head back. Her breath gradually slipped out of her control.. "Today, why are you being so forward?" Keh''s thin lips brushed against her kiss-swollen lips as he asked softly. "In the hospital, I was worried it was too difficult for you to handle." Ophelia''s fair arms were wrapped around his neck, and her voice no longer sounded like her own. There was also a hint of breathless excitement.


    "Caring about me this much?" Keh''s deep, pleasant voice had a hint of allure as it softly brushed past he


    1. r.


    Ophelia''s small hand rested on Keh''s partially unbuttoned chest, and with a quick nce down, she could see the tattoo letters on his chest. However, Keh kept kissing her, leaving no room for anything else in her mind.


    ****


    The next morning, Ophelia woke up in the soft bed, her limbs felt like they weren''t hers anymore. She shouldn''t have been so bold.


    "Awake? Get up and have breakfast." Keh, like a waiter, brought a tray and ced it on the table.


    He walked over, helped Ophelia get dressed, buttoning each button, then gently smoothed her messy hair and kissed her forehead. "Next time, we shouldn''t do that so long."


    Ophelia was speechless, her cheeks suddenly turned bright red. Her mind was filled with memories of Keh''s wild side fromst night.


    Ophelia thought, ''Was it my fault? Was it because I did that too long?"


    She lifted the nket, about to get out of bed, when Keh''s arm slipped under her knees and picked her up. "My bad, next time I''ll make sure... not to get tempted by you." Ophelia thought to herself, ''Fine, he is really quick to admit his mistakes now.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Jilted Bride 296

    Ophelia was carried to the couch while Keh knelt in front of her to check the injury on her leg. She said, "Actually, it''s almost healed."


    Keh frowned and said, "It won''t heal that easily."


    Ophelia smiled, picked up a bowl of porridge, and sipped it while ncing at the closedptop. "In a bit. I need to go to thepany. There are some things I need to take care of."


    "I''ll be there with you." Keh stood up, sat across from her, helped her peel a boiled egg, and ced it in front of her while casually grabbing a napkin to wipe his hands. He gave her light nce. Ophelia lowered her head and sipped her porridge, mumbling. No need."


    Her cheeks puffed out, like a little squirrel hoarding food. "I have a lot to do today," she added.


    Keh said, "I won''t bother you."


    Ophelia thought, ''Is he really insistent on going?''Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    "If you go, how can I concentrate on work?"


    Keh chuckled softly, his mood unreadable.


    Ophelia continued eating. After a while without a word from Keh opposite, she looked up to see him leaning back on the couch, legs crossed, his deep eyes behind sses fixed unwaveringly on her. She asked, "What''s the matter?"


    "Are you sure you don''t need me with you?" His lips had a slight hint as cold as ice, making him seem unhappy.


    of


    a


    smile, but his green eyes were cold. His voice was


    - "No need, really. You''re too tempting for me, and I''ll get distracted." Ophelia avoided Keh''s sharp gaze and casually


    continued eating her breakfast.


    "Kennie, today''s boiled eggs are so tasty! Have one." She peeled one for him too.


    She always felt a chill down her spine from being watched by Keh''s gaze, making her uneasy. It had been a long time since she felt such intense pressure from him.


    "I''ve already eaten." His tone remained cold and indifferent as he adjusted the gold-rimmed sses on his nose.


    After a brief silence, Ophelia put down her bowl and chopsticks and said, "I''m done eating, and I''ll go freshen up now." She stood up and was just about to the bathroom when she heard his calm voice from behind. "So after freshening up, you will leave home and be bound to the office. Once you finish there, you''re nning to catch a flight to Jenton, right?"


    Ophelia froze, her injured leg nearly giving way.


    Keh stood up.


    "Trying to go on an adventure without telling me? Elia, you''re being naughty." Thest few words were said in a lower tone, carrying a hint of danger.


    Ophelia could sense a shadow looming over her head from behind. She coughed lightly, feeling guilty, turned around, her pretty doe eyes curving as she met Keh''s intimidating eyes. She asked, "What are you talking about?" ''How does he know?'' Ophelia thought to herself.


    11:55 Sun Dec 8 GDD


    Keh seemed to have ped what she was thinking. He let out a cold sort and lifted her chin. "You got my medical repet from Bonin


    "I was only concerned about your health?


    "Oh'' Really? Keh''s gaze seemed like it could see right through her.


    She thought. Do I not know her by now? If she got the medical report, she must have found information on the ''poison bug With her nature, she would definitely want to go in person


    Plus, she was so upfrontst night-it was obvious she was trying to calm him down beforehand so he wouldn''t be too upset when he couldn''t find her the next day.


    After meeting his gaze. Ophelia quickly gave in. No matter how skilled she was at hiding her emotions, she was like an open book to him. She couldn''t keep anything from him.


    "Don''t be angry! I wasn''t nning to go by myself. If you''re really worried, just send a few people toe with me." As long as she wasn''t prevented from going, everything was fine. She couldn''t just obediently stay at home. Keh narrowed his eyes slightly. "Do you know what the ce is like?"


    Of course, she did. She had already researched it yesterday.


    Located on the border of Helor¨ªa, near the Delta region, it was currently the hardest ce in Heloria to maintainw and order, and also the most underdeveloped area.


    There had been a longstanding issue with cross-border drug trafficking there, and even organ trafficking.


    "But I''m not going to Jenton!"


    "Not going?" Keh raised an eyebrow, questioning her as if she thought he was naive. "If you''re going to Tansoton, you''ll have to pass through there."


    So he knew everything. Ophelia looked down guiltily. The ce she was heading was quite backward, without even an airport. She had to fly to the nearest city and drive from there.


    Her destination was Tansoton. Rumor had it that more than half the people in that ce were raising "poison bugs."


    For Keh, she definitely had to take this risk. Seeing the determined and stubborn look in her eyes, Keh knew there was no stopping her.


    He could only soften his tone, gently rubbing her head. "I''ll send someone ahead first. Until your leg heals, you can''t go anywhere."


    She knew that''s exactly how he would react. She let out a long sigh, her mouth turning downward, and her beautiful, clear eyes drooping immediately. She was like a little kitten who''s been hurt. He couldn''t stand to see her looking so down. "Keh Sinir, you''re all I have left..." He was so important to her that he was even more important than her own life. Keh''s heart skipped a beat, feeling a pang of sadness seeing Ophelia''s teary eyes. "You really have to go?"


    "Yes, I really have to go." Ophelia nodded firmly.


    "Okay, I''ll her.


    go


    with you." He really couldn''t refuse his little princess. With her looking at him like that, he''d do anything for


    "But don''t get too excited just yet. There are rules-everything goes by my say, and no taking risks. "Keh warned, holding the back of her neck.


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 Jilted Bride 297

    Everyone got into the car. Ray nced at Eric standing to the side and walked over to him slowly. "Have all your injuries healed?" It had been a long time since Eric had heard that raspy, moky voice Eric, with his hands in his pockets, gave Ray a quick nce, "Yeah, how about you?"


    "Tough as ever... Ray said andughed, pulling out two bags of candy from his jacket pocket and tossing them to Eric "I got these on a mission in Dawnshire recently, as I promised you"


    It was the candy Eric''d tasted before, with wrappers featuring foreignnguage packaging. Eric stared at the tworge, crumpled candy bags shoved into his hands, momentarily lost in thought. One of the bags wasbeled "sugar-free." Eating them shouldn''t cause a toothache.


    Noticing Eric''s daze andck of excitement, Ray felt a bit embarrassed. "What? Not enough? I wanted to get you more, but too much would be hard to carry. Next time, next time I''ll get you more."


    Eric looked up at the bearded man in front of him. A mix ofplex emotions flickered in his eyes, which were like obsidian. "Than... thank you, Ray."


    "Hey, it''s been over a month and now you''re acting all formal with me? It''s nothing! We''re partners." Ray said as he wrapped an arm around Eric''s shoulder, wanting to give him a hearty p but held back a bit, realizing he was too young. Ray said, "Let''s go, hop in."


    Three cars rolled up to the airport. Ophelia was curious about who they were picking up, and as soon as they reached the airport exit, she saw a tall man with long legs waiting.


    He wore light casual pants and a blue and white checkered short-sleeved shirt, with sunsses on, looking like he was ready for a vacation.


    He was holding a silver-gray suitcase in one hand, with arger, square metal case about knee-height at his feet.


    Just by looking at his sunsses and outfit, it was clear he was Ronin.


    When he saw them, Ronin took off his sunsses, revealing his short brown curls and amber eyes, smiling and greeting them warmly, "Hey, we meet again."


    Ophelia curled her lips into a polite smile at him. That smile made Ronin feel a bit guilty.


    After all, right after she had asked him for the pathology report, he went and told Keh about it. Maybe it was a kind of


    low move.


    Yet, Ophelia wasn''t too concerned. Considering Ronin and Keh''s close rtionship, she had already suspected he would tell him.


    She just hadn''t expected Keh to understand her so well that from such a small matter, he could figure out she was nning a solo trip to Jenton. Fortunately, the oue was positive, and they were going together. "Is heing with us?" Ophelia asked Keh beside her.


    "Yes." Keh nodded.


    It was true they need a doctor to apany them to provide a scientific analysis of the "poison bug," Keh thought of everything.


    After Ronin ced two suitcases in the trunk, he got into the car


    Three SUVS kept a steady distance as they drove from the airport exit towards the highway. They should reach the town near Jenton by nightfall, stay overnight, and head into Jenton the next day.


    On the road, Ophelia wasn''t idle. She converted the slum design ns Lora gave her into a new electronic version.


    She intended to secure the rights to develop the slums before winter and make arrangements for the people there. Keh gave a little cough, as if reminding Ophelia beside him. She hadn''t acknowledged him for nearly an hour.


    Seeing that Ophelia showed no reaction and continued to stare at theputer screen, he sighed softly and nced idly to his right at the man in the passenger seat.


    "How''s Noah''s memorying along?" Keh asked in a casual tone.


    Hearing this, Ophelia lifted her gaze from the screen and looked up, waiting for an answer.


    Keh felt annoyed; she hadn''t acknowledged him earlier but was now looking up out of curiosity about another man. That was fine!


    Ronin said, "Most of his memories have almost fully returned, and we''re still in the observation phase/But he can''t sit still; he''s already busy with his previous duties and the election in November. But...


    "It seems like he doesn''t remember what happened over the past few years. Well, those years were spent in a daze anyway, nothing much worth remembering."


    Hearing Ronin''s words, Ophelia felt a jolt in her heart. She thought, ''Does this mean he won''t remember Chloe and Intle Wyatt?


    As an outsider, she really didn''t know if this was a good or bad thing. Especially after learning Chloe''s real identity, there was no way she and Noah could be together.


    Some people liked Noah could use memory loss to forget a rtionship, but the one liked Chloe who remembered everything suffered the most. She felt sorry for Chloe. At a Eurasian-style manor in Denex, Chloe walked in holding little Wyatt''s hand.


    In the hall, Jonathan, dressed in a burgundy suit, nced over casually. "Emma." He stood up, his eyes driftingzily before suddenly locking in ce.


    The sofa had blocked his view earlier when Chloe entered, so he hadn''t noticed her holding the little toddler until now. His gaze met that of the little toddler. "Hi Uncle Jonathan, I''m Wyatt Davidson," the little one said. That was the name his Mommy had just given him.


    Jonathanpletely lost hisposure. "Emma, this, this, this you, you..."


    Chloe gave her brother a nd look, disdain practically pouring out of her.


    Fiona was the first to react. "Ms. Emma Davidson, is that your child? So, this must be Mr. Wyatt


    Davidson?"


    As soon as the words were spoken, all the bodyguards and servants in the first-floor hall bowed respectfully to little Wyatt. "Hello, Mr. Wyatt Davidson!" The cheer was so loud, as if everyone was afraid of not sounding loyal enough.


    A typical five or six-year-old might have burst into tears upon seeing such a scene. But Wyatt wasn''t scared at all; instead, he greeted them with calmness. 11:55 Sun, Dec 8


    484%


    He said, "Hello everyone, Fm not ''Mr. Davidson'' yet. My name is Wyatt Davidson, but you can call me Wyatt." He introduced himself without a hint of shyness, like a little grown-up. Jonathan looked at the tiny tot just past his knee, feeling like the little one was


    like the little one was both small and somehow grown-up.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He pulled Chloe over, cleared his throat, and furrowed his brow his icy blue eyes filled with shock.


    "Emma, did you really disappear for five years to have a child?" His gazended on Wyatt, and upon meeting the little boy''s eyes, he quickly looked away, frightened.


    He asked, "Is this little boy about five or six years old? Who''s that random guy?" As soon as the words "random guy" slipped out, a re sharp enough to kill shot straight towards him.


    Jonathan felt his throat tighten, and his fierce and domineering aura from before instantly diminished significantly.


    In front of Chloe, he was like a trained Tibetan Mastiff-fierce outwardly, but with just one look from his owner, he''d obediently tuck his tail. He didn''t want to, but it was apelling force within his bloodline.

 Jilted Bride 298

    Chloe nced at him coolly. "Don''t mention this to our parents for now, and definitely don''t let Dad know you''ve found me," She didn''t want to go back to the Davidson family right now. "Then why are you telling me?" Jonathan asked, ncing again at the little kid who barely reached his knee, brought over to scare him.


    Chloe lifted her eyelids, a hint of a smile on her lips. "If our parents find out, I''ll know it was you who told. You know what


    that means."


    Jonathan was speechless and thought, ''Is this even fair?'' He let out a long breath.


    Now he understood. Telling him wasn''t about keeping it a secret; it was about getting others to keep quiet, making sure they don''t spill the news of finding Chloe.


    Otherwise, he''d be the one to me. Let''s just say Chloe''s tricks always worked; it had been years since he''d been reminded of that.


    "Let''s talk about something serious. How am I supposed to exin the Denex transport line to Dad? Growing up in the Davidson family, there were always things that couldn''t be helped.


    Just tell it like it is. Say you couldn''t handle it. It''s the truth anyway, using kidnapping and other cheap tricks just to embarrass the Davidson family."


    Jonathan was almost choked up, feeling like there was a lump of cotton stuck in his throat. In the end, he could only swallow


    it down helplessly.


    Chloe looked at the frustrated person in front of her. "If you don''t want Dad to me you, you''ll need to make some sacrifices." "What kind of sacrifice?" He had a feeling that his sister had nothing good to say.


    - "Sell your flesh and marry the princess of Yosk. With the support of their royal family, they''ll keep protecting you in the future."


    Hearing this, Jonathan frowned angrily. "Emma, am I still your real brother? Are you asking me to sell myself in a roundabout way?"


    "Is there anything else you can offer besides yourself?" Chloe nced at him, her face full of disdain.


    She knew her brother too well; when it came to Ophelia, he wouldn''t give up easily.


    The Davidson family, thanks to its strong foundations over the years, didn''t really take others seriously, which had earned them quite a few enemies.


    If the Davidson family were to sh with Keh, several families holding grudges against them might band together and potentially deliver a devastating blow to the Davidsons.


    By considering the pros and cons, forming an alliance with royalty and getting along with Keh was the way to keep the Davidson family thriving.


    Jonathan never considered the pros and cons of these matters, as he had been reckless since childhood.


    When it came to handling matters, he just applied to the most ruthless way, but that was only when the Davidson family''s influence was overwhelming. After Chloe finished speaking, Jonathan acknowledged that she made a valid point and had no further objections.


    Jonathan said, "But Emma, you''re aware that Dad has been fixated on this for years. He won''t easily give up Heloria."


    He thought, ''How can we exin it to Dad then?''


    Chloe was well aware that her father''s ambitions extended beyond that.


    that


    part of


    She sighed, nced at little Wyatt, who was surrounded by bodyguards not far away, and a touch of sadness shed in her eyes.


    At that moment, Fiona received news and instantly shifted from cheerful to serious.


    She approached Chloe and Jonathan. "Ms. Emma Davidson, Mr. Davidson, our base in Heloria has been attacked, and we''ve suffered great losses."


    "Who did it?" Jonathan''s voice suddenly rose several notches. His eyes showed a murderous glint.


    He suddenly realized there was a little kid nearby, and he didn''t want his nephew to see his uncle, as too intense. So, he calmed down a bit.


    When Chloe heard the news, she wasn''t very surprised. Instead, it felt like a weight had been lifted from her heart. His memory hade back.


    It turned out that the first thing Noah did after regaining his memory was to dismantle the base she had built with great effort. After all, it was an unfinished business for him from back then.


    Go and find out who did this immediately." Jonathan had just given the order when Chloe Stevens stopped Fiona.


    "No need to find out." She knew who it was.


    Eliminating everything connected to the Davidson family in Waston had always been Noah''s task. Next, bases in various cities and those near the Heloria border would definitely be gradually eradicated. "First, move the weapons from the other bases to minimize the losses. Jonathan, you go back to Yosk and do as I instructed." As for here, she just needed some people to follow her orders. "Alright." Jonathan nodded. With Emma around, he immediately felt more secure.


    After returning home with Wyatt, Chloe sat alone on the couch, lost in thought. He didn''te to find her, and she moved out. They both broke their promises.


    Even though she had expected it, she still couldn''t help but feel heartbroken.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She pulled out her phone and flipped through the photo album, each picture showing him sleeping with Wyatt snuggled in


    his arms.


    He had his eyes closed; only when he was asleep did he exude a sense of that familiar past. Unfortunately, there wasn''t a single photo of him facing forward with his eyes open.


    She didn''t even know what she was missing. Clearly, the person after his memory loss wasn''t him, yet she was still reminiscing. So strange.


    At the end of her scroll, there were photos of Wyatt at the Rosewood Manor yground.


    Suddenly, Chloe''s hand froze when she noticed a particr photo. Wyatt sat on the carousel horse, and right behind him on another horse was Noah.


    That serious, intense face had a silly smile that didn''t quite fit. It was like the goofy grin he always had when she tried to send him away but ended up letting him stay. That smile was rare before, and now she kind of missed it. 11:55 Sun, Dec 0


    Chloe zoomed in on the photo, her fingers lightly tracing Noah check on the screen. She thought, ''Why didn''t I treat him better when he was being goofy?''


    Her


    eyes suddenly felt heavy with unshed tears. And her tears dropped onto her phone, blurring Noah''s face. She quickly wiped away the tears, only to realize she was wiping the screen. "Mommy, what''s wrong?" Wyatt walked over, and Chloe immediatelyposed herself, holding back her tears.


    She said, "I''m fine."


    By the time they reached Golten, it was already 5 PM. Golten was fairly developed, a growing second-tier city with its industrial area near the border.


    Keh''s trip this time didn''t attract attention from the localpany branch. Besides, he was only staying for one night, so there was no need for a big fuss.


    Caleb found a decent five-star hotel and booked an entire floor for them. Guild members would be positioned in the underground parking loto guard the items in the car.


    Before checking in, the guild members thoroughly inspected all the rooms, with guards at the elevator entrance and fire escape. The hallway cameras were instantly connected to theirptops.


    It was Ophelia''s first experience with the guild''s discipline, and she couldn''t help but admire Keh''s management.


    "How''s your leg?" Keh was worried the entire way and had Ronin check it twice.


    Ophelia finally realized that having Ronin follow her wasn''t about studying insects but to keep a constant watch on her leg injury. He was worried she might hide her difort and pretend to be fine.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Jilted Bride 299

    "I''m fine." She replied. "Didn''t Dr. West say it''s healing quickly?"


    She thought, ''With his careful attention, how could it not heal fat?


    She sighed helplessly, thinking about how Keh had carried her all the way from the underground parking lot to upstairs.


    In the lobby, they came across a little girl around four or five years old. As the elevator doors closed, she clearly heard the girl ask her mom loudly, "Is thatdy inconvenient? So sad!" She was speechless but had already gotten used to it.


    Keh raised an eyebrow. "What? Annoyed?"


    "Not at all." Ophelia leaned over, wrapped her arms around Keh''s neck, and gave him a soft kiss on the cheek, her eyes. like a captivating gxy.


    Looking at Ophelia so close to him, Keh''s Adam''s apple moved up and down, and he pulled her in for a kiss. He deepened the kiss bit by bit.


    "Stop... I''m hungry..." Ophelia quickly used the pause to put out the fire he had started.


    Keh looked at her and lightly bit her lower lip to release his frustration. He adjusted his gold-rimmed sses and asked, What do you want to eat? I''ll have it delivered." Suddenly asked like that, Ophelia wasn''t sure what she wanted to eat. "Why don''t we go check out the hotel''s restaurant and try some local specialties?"


    "Okay." Keh agreed.


    Just as they were about to go downstairs, Ray appeared at their door, pushing a wheelchair.


    Seeing the wheelchair, Ophelia raised an eyebrow, surprised he actually brought it.


    Keh took the wheelchair from Ray, giving her a look that said, "Get in." Ophelia could only sit down obediently, feeling resigned.


    After all, she promised Keh she would follow his lead. If she didn''t sit in the wheelchair, he''d probably end up carrying her again. She didn''t want to attract that much attention.


    As they reached the elevator, she nced at the guild members watching over the hallway.


    She said, "Why don''t we all go to the restaurant together? Anyway, all our stuff is in the car, and there''s nothing to guard in the room. The sooner we eat, the sooner we cane back and rest."


    Everyone was quite tired today. "Thank you, Mrs. Sinir." The group respectfully nodded to Ophelia.


    There was no intention of consulting Keh any further. After all, Keh would listen to Ophelia anyway.


    The group arrived at the third-floor restaurant. It was the peak of the summer tourist season, and Golten, being a major transportation hub near a famous historic city, attracted many travelers looking to take a break. It was dinner time, and the restaurant was quite crowded.


    Their outfits were nothing like the uniform ck gear worn in the guild. Instead, they wore simple T-shirts and shorts, blending in effortlessly with the other tourists.


    *ut he was di


    As Ray pass by to grab something, he rebond sigh Parsing Bico de Eric was decernendech Sp


    Ray Chought Thin guy really knows how so there he tales


    On a hot summer day. Eric tied his long hair into a wolf tail at the back of his head, revealing + handsome and digely awkward teenage face.


    He Burrowed his brows a little, unsure of how to handle the two girls in front of him. He thought, Shendet will he


    His innocent eyes made the girls'' hearts flutter with excitement,


    Just as he was unsure how to kill someone in public, Ray''s rougs and reached over, grabbed him by the back of his cor and pulled him away from between the girls. "Hey kid, don''t get into a rtionship too early?" Caleb''s voice was rough, like a dad advising his son.


    The girls left reluctantly after seeing Ray, with his intimidating beard, standing beside Eric, Eric let out a sigh of relief


    Ray asked, "What? Never had a girl ask for your number before?


    Noticing Eric was staying quiet. Ray handed him a tray and a rack, giving a quick nce at the boy next to him. "Upset because I interrupted your flirting?"


    "No." He was just thinking about how he would kill those two people in that situation.


    "You''re at the age where dating makes sense. Once you''ve made enough money, you can find a nice girl and senle down.


    Eric casually picked up a tray, selecting some of his favorite foods, mostly meat and desserts.Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    When he returned to the table with his food, he suddenly looked up and seriously asked Ray in front of him. "So after you retire, are you going to settle down with a girl?"


    Ray took a sip of beer and nearly choked on Eric''s words. "What would I do that for? At my age, I''m already used to being alone. Having someone else around to boss me might just be a hassle."


    "Is settling down with a girl about having someone boss you around? Eric asked, puzzled.


    "No"


    "Then what does it mean to live life?*


    Chanter 299


    Ray paused, holding hits fork still, picked up a side dish, and thought about the question. "Settling down... it''s two people being together every day, tolerating each other, makingpromises, sometimes arguing but never splitting up. Ray thought, "That should be what settling down is about, right?


    "Then aren''t we settling down with each other?"


    Ray was genuinely choked this time from a mouthful of beer. Meeting Eric''s serious gaze, he wanted to scold him but swallowed his words.


    Helplessly, he tapped Eric''s head across from him with his fork. You really don''t understand! Oh well, you''re still young! But in the future, if you have the choice, you can live the life you love."


    "I really like the life I have now."


    "That''s because you haven''t experienced any other life!" Ray said, suddenly feeling his heart tighten as if squeezed by an invisible hand, creating deep furrows between his brows.


    If he hadn''t been fighting alongside his adoptive father since he was young, if he had grown up in a more normal life, he might have wonderful dreams for the future. Instead of being easily satisfied. Ray sighed, Hurry up and eat. It''s our turn to be on watchter tonight. Eat more."


    "Okay."

 Jilted Bride 300

    In front of the elegantly designed marble buffet, Keh was selecting food for the girl in the wheelchair.


    Ophelia sat in the wheelchair, unable to see everything clearly, so she tilted her head slightly. "I want to try this, and this."


    There were indeed some local specialties here, dishes not even seen in Denex.


    Ophelia guided Keh. Keh obediently used the tongs to put the food onto her te.


    Guild members nearby saw this scene andmented that the only person who could give orders to Keh was Ophelia.


    "You go ahead and take this to the dining table, and I''ll look around some more," The array of food was so tempting that it made Ophelia''s mouth water. Maybe because Keh was around, her appetite had been greattely. Keh took a nce at Ophelia, then surveyed the surroundings. With guild members nearby, nothing was likely to happen. "Alright, think about what else you''d like to eat. You don''t have to get it yourself. Wait for me toe over." "Okay," Ophelia nodded obediently. It seemed like she was actually disabled or something, even though she could totally stand up if she wanted to.


    But after sitting in a wheelchair for so long, with Keh taking care of her, she honestly didn''t feel like getting up. She carefully maneuvered her wheelchair to the curved dining counter on the other side.


    All the dishes here were elegantly set in small bowls. Some foods needed to be freshly made by the chef, so there was a line to wait.


    Ophelia wanted to try that famous pre-dinner sandwich, so she lined up for it ahead of time. Just as she wheeled herself to the back of the line, a boy who looked about eight or nine suddenly cut in front of her.


    "Mom! Come over here!" He shouted without even ncing at Ophelia, as if he naturally belonged at the front.


    Ophelia held back her frustration and said, "Hey there, I was here first, okay?"


    The boy finally noticed her, giving her a contemptuous look. "Hmph, stupid cripple! Go to the back!" The harsh words came from the well-dressed little boy''s mouth with a childish tone, leaving Ophelia stunned, making her frown.


    "Are you talking to me?" Ophelia''s voice turned icy, and her gaze lost its warmth. She was used to meeting polite kids, so it was her first time encountering such a rude child.


    She thought the boy was rather rude to call her a cripple just because she was sitting in a wheelchair.


    "If not to you, then who else! You''re the only one here in a wheelchair, and you''re in my way! Move!" The boy''s eyes were full of contempt as he looked away from her and called to his mom, "Mom,e over here!"


    Seeing that Ophelia didn''t move, the boy became even more unruly. He reached out and pushed her wheelchair, wanting her to move aside for his mom. "Move back, you stinky cripple!" Seeing that the wheelchair didn''t budge, he tried to push even harder. But before he could touch the armrest, his wrist was suddenly grabbed. The person who grabbed his wrist was none other than Bighost with tattoos.


    They had been following closely behind Ophelia for her protection. At first, upon seeing that it was just a boy, they didn''t pay much attention, but he started crossing the line. He even wanted to push Ophelia away.


    "You little brat, you really need a good spanking!" Bighost, with his towering stature and intimidating tattoos, wore a ck


    09.54Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    Chapter 300.


    sleeveless gym shirt, and his arms were thicker than the boy''s head.


    "What''s it to you?" The boy iled helplessly, his hits having little effect on Bighost, as if he were trying to scratch an itch. In the middle of the scuffle, the boy suddenly burst into loud tears.


    Hearing themotion, the boy''s mother rushed over. "What are you doing to my son? Let him go!" The middle-aged woman, with a sturdy build, attempted to intervene, hitting Bighost''s arm with all her might. Bighost wanted to fight back, but Mnie stopped him. "Don''t cause trouble."


    Bighost held back his anger and muttered under his breath, "What''s wrong with you? It was your kid who cut in line and pushed others first."


    "My son cut in line? Why couldn''t you just let him through? He''s just a little kid. What does he know? A grown man like you picking on a kid? Aren''t you ashamed?"


    Bighost thought the woman was just being unreasonable. He let go, and the boy plopped onto the ground, crying even louder, which drew stares from the crowd.


    "Hey,e on. Regardless, you can''t bully a kid!"


    "Yeah, picking on a little kid, what does that prove?"


    Bighost squinted his eyes fiercely, and with his tattoos, he red at those making snidements, immediately silencing them.


    "Get up," Someone stepped forward to help the boy, but he just cried louder, thrashing around and kicking anyone who tried to lift him. The people who had been defending him just moments ago now kept their distance. "This kid! Why is he acting like that?"


    "He really needs some manners!"


    The boy''s mother felt embarrassed, and in a rage, she shouted at Bighost without hesitation, "How dare you bully my son! Do you have any idea who my husband is? You''re really bold today!" Bighost squinted his small eyes, his fists already clenched tightly


    Seeing that the tattooed man in front of her wasn''t to be trifled with, the woman turned her gaze to Ophelia sitting in the wheelchair. She thought Ophelia was somehow an easy target.


    "A person like you should just stay home instead of getting in the way of others. Ask him apologize to my son, or else don''t even think about leaving today!"


    Ophelia let out a coldugh, finally understanding the phrase "Like father, like son." Troublesome kids always seemed to have unreasonable parents. "But your son cut in line first-" Before Ophelia could finish, the woman interrupted with her own twisted reasoning.


    "I said it! Can''t you just let him go first? A bunch of adults picking on a child and evenying hands on him! What''s the justice in that? I don''t care. If you don''t apologize today, none of you are leaving!" "Apologize? You want Mrs. Sinir to apologize? Who do you think you are?" As Mnie finished speaking, other members of the guild stood up, their faces saying "don''t mess with us."


    The woman was stunned by the sight, not expecting Ophelia to have so many people with her. Just moments ago, she was so arrogant, but now she shrank back like a frightened little mouse.


    The crowd parted, and Keh strode over, his imposing presence making the air feel thinner around them. He stood by


    Ophelia''s side, his sharp gaze sweeping the crowd, enough to send a chill down anyone''s spine.


    The woman swallowed hard, her face turning purple from holding her breath.


    "Throw her out," Keh coolly said.


    The woman had reluctance in her eyes, but she sensed that the man before her was not to be messed with. Before these rough men could act, she quickly gathered her bawling son from the ground and left hurriedly. Before exiting the restaurant, she remembered to toss out a final remark. "Just you wait!"

 Jilted Bride 301

    Naturally, no one paid attention to the woman''s parting words. Everyone ignored what had happened just now.


    Keh continued to guide Ophelia, picked a few more dishes and returned to the table to eat.


    The sky outside gradually grew dark. By the time they came down to eat, it was alreadyte, and most of the restaurant patrons had left by then.


    Ophelia was very full and quite satisfied.


    "Finished eating?" Keh grabbed a napkin and, like a caring father, helped her wipe her mouth.


    "Yeah, let''s go upstairs."


    After a long day, they all needed a good rest since tomorrow they had to head into Jenton early.


    "Alright," Keh stood up, and the other guild members followed his lead, heading out of the restaurant together. They thought the little incident from earlier had blown over.


    But to their surprise, just as they left the restaurant, they heard a loudmotion approaching from a distance. "Who dares to bully my nephew? I think they have a death wish! Don''t worry, I''ll get revenge for him!"


    "That''s right! Let''s see who''s brave enough to act so recklessly. They''re tired of living!"


    don''t care who they are. On our turf today, even if he''s a big shot, he better behave and stay low! I''ll teach him a lesson More than twenty punks wearing shy clothes were wielding weapons, led by the same middle-aged woman from earlier. It was clear that the woman was back to take revenge. She paused. "It''s them! Who knows where these outsiders came from!"


    "Hmph, seems like they don''t know the rules of this Golten," The leader, a stocky man, said as he ordered his group to surround them. The woman no longer looked as frightened as she had been earlier. Arrogance was now clearly disyed on her face. She thought they had outnumbered Keh and wondered how they would deal with this now. She looked at Ophelia with contempt. "Hmph, I told you to apologize, but you didn''t. If you don''t leave something behind today, don''t think you can leave!" She had expected Ophelia to be scared out of her wits, but instead, Ophelia remained extremely calm, leaning backzily with one hand supporting her forehead.


    Keh''s baseball cap was pulled low, hiding most of his face except for his lower half, and his lips curled into a cold, emotionless smile. "Rules?" he repeated the word, letting it roll off his tongue.


    Throughout all of Heloria, Keh was the one who made the rules.


    "Honey, I''m so tired," Ophelia leaned on the wheelchair, her head tilted up to meet the eyes under his cap.


    Keh brushed the hair off her forehead. "Tired? Then we''ll go to bed early."


    "Sure."


    The middle-aged woman saw that instead of being scared, Ophelia didn''t take them seriously at all and even started showing off their affection, which made her even angrier. "Get them! Teach them a lesson!"


    She wondered if Ophelia could still be like this. She thought Ophelia and Keh were just outsiders who didn''t know the rules and intended to teach them a lesson.


    The thugs raised their bats and charged, but the couple in the riddle carried on their casual chat as if nothing was happening, not even flinching. The next moment, the sound of painful cries echoed at the restaurant''s entrance. "Honey, it''s so noisy!" Ophelia pouted, her eyes blinking innocently.


    "Yeah, it''s too noisy," Keh agreed with a slightly colder tone)


    The guild members worked together with their partners seamlessly. They immediately understood after hearing Keh and Ophelia''s conversation. As soon as the thugs rushed up, they would tear off their shirts to gag them and then kick them away.


    One after another, more than twenty thugs flew out like kites with broken strings.


    In less than ten minutes, the guild had them all on the floor. The hotel''s air conditioning made the white marble floor ice-cold, and the shirtless men writhed in pain, feeling both the cold and the agony. Bats and sticks were everywhere. The woman pulled her brother back, fear showing in her eyes. She never expected they would be dealing with such skilled fighters. She didn''t know what to do but shouted, "How dare you cause trouble in Golten! Do you even know who he is?" The man being pulled back finally came to his senses and straightened his back. "Yeah! Do you even know who I am? Offending me is like offending our boss! I''m one of DarkHawk''s men! Go ask around to find out who DarkHawk is!" Upon hearing the name "DarkHawk," the guild members exchanged nces.


    Keh let out a cold chuckle, his eyes lifting slightly from under the brim of his hat. "Well then, let your bosse and help you out."


    The chubby man leading them thought Keh looked familiar but couldn''t recall anything. Seeing the situation, he could only make a call.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    **


    The night in Golten was intense. There was a rumor that after 9 PM, no one should be found on the streets of Golten. So at this moment, there wasn''t a single soul on the street outside.


    In the first-floor lobby, a bunch of shirtless thugs huddled together, while a middle-aged woman and a man stood to the side, looking like quails in front of these tough guys. "Will your bosse?" The middle-aged woman asked.


    If he didn''te, they wouldn''t be able to leave today.


    The chubby man kept ncing at his phone, then at the man on the sofa. The man sat with his legs crossed, one arm resting on the armrest, spinning a ring on his ring finger.


    Even while sitting on apletely unremarkable sofa, he radiated the aura of a king on his throne. Those around him didn''t dare to take even a deep breath.


    Ophelia stood up from the wheelchair and sat beside Keh.


    "You''re not a cripple?" The middle-aged woman eximed, instantly regretting her words. She wondered why Ophelia would be sitting in a wheelchair since she was not disabled.


    The middle-aged woman quickly looked away and noticed several cars parked outside. "They''re here!" Her eyes lit up with excitement. Arge group of people dressed in ck suits entered the hotel, looking even more intimidating than the local thugs. The woman felt smug, wondering what Keh and Ophelia would do in such a situation.


    DarkHawk first looked at the troublemakers and the group of punks on the floor, then turned his gaze to the man on the


    couch.


    Keh slightly raised his chin, his sharp eyes peering from under the brim of his hat.


    Locking eyes with Keh, DarkHawk froze for a moment, swallowing hard. He nced at the people standing around, his heart nearly stopped. These were all key members of the guild.


    "Ken-Keh, why didn''t you give a heads-up abouting to Colten? It''s my fault. Please punish me for this oversight," DarkHawk nodded respectfully toward Keh. Hearing nothing from Keh, he didn''t dare lift his head.

 Jilted Bride 302

    The middle-aged woman and the chubby man were dumbfounded. Their smiles froze, and they exchanged nces,pletely clueless about the situation.


    The chubby man took another careful look at the sophisticated man on the couch. After a moment, he pped his forehead, finally remembering why the man looked familiar. It was Keh, the head of Sinir Group.


    He didn''t recognize him at first because Keh was wearing sses. He didn''t know he would end up messing with such a big figure. Remembering his careless words earlier, he wished he could just disappear.


    In Heloria, Keh was famous. He was decisive and ruthless, running a powerful organization. Cross him, and one might at best lose ayer of skin, or at worst, their life.


    In an instant, the chubby man''s forehead was covered with cold sweat, his legs gave way, and he copsed to the ground. The middle-aged woman beside him had no clue what had happened. She reached out to help him, but he pushed her away.


    "Do you have any idea who you''ve messed with? Just wait for your end!" The middle-aged woman was utterly baffled. She had no clue who Keh was. However, seeing the situation, she realized she had offended someone she shouldn''t have. She was extremely anxious, her whole body trembling as she tightly held onto the chubby man, afraid he might abandon her.


    The chubby man nced around nervously, his eyesnding on DarkHawk, desperately hoping for his protection. DarkHawk nced to the side at the two terrified figures on the floor as if he were looking at a couple of doomed souls. "Keh, I''m really sorry. It''s my fault for not keeping them in line. Let me handle this riffraff."


    Hearing this, the chubby man scrambled to DarkHawk''s feet. "Sir, I messed up! Mr. Sinir, it was our mistake not recognizing who you are. Please, show some mercy and forgive us, Mr. Sinir. We promise we''ll never do it again."


    There weren''t many people with thest name Keh in Heloria, and the middle-aged woman finally realized just who she had offended. But it was already toote.


    Seeing her standing there dumbfounded, the chubby man angrily lunged forward, grabbing her hair: "This is all your faults You troublemaker! You''re going to ruin me!" He pped the woman hard across the face a few times, then kicked her several times. "Ahhh-"The middle-aged woman could only cry and wail.


    Even so, Keh didn''t even lift an eyelid. He was holding Ophelia''s hand, their eyes locked on each other, seemingly unaware of everything else around them.


    DarkHawk gestured to the people behind him. "Take these two out and handle them, and get rid of those little punks too!" The people he brought with him stepped forward and dragged the two out of the hotel lobby.


    The sound of their pleading grew fainter and eventually vanishedpletely. The group of troublemakers was also driven out. The lobby instantly became much quieter. After dealing with those people, DarkHawk came back.


    Ophelia''s gaze fell on DarkHawk''s leg. Even though his walking seemed normal, his weight was clearly more on the right leg. It seemed like there was something wrong with his left leg.


    If it weren''t for her recent leg injury, she wouldn''t have paid such close attention. DarkHawk had a darkplexion, rough facial features, and slightly cloudy eyes, probably due to long-term heavy drinking.


    "Keh, it''s been a while. May I ask why you''vee to the city, Mr. Sinir?" DarkHawk kept his head down, unable to meet Keh''s gaze.


    Keh stayed silent, and the others in the guild didn''t dare speak, giving DarkHawk someplex looks.


    Since Keh didn''t say anything when he was dealing with these people earlier, it showed he was likely satisfied with the way he handled it. Having been with Keh for so many years he understood Keh''s temperament well. "Mr. Sinir, I''ve gained a bit of influence at the border. If you need anything-


    "No need," Keh''s voice was cold and indifferent. He nced at Ophelia, gently patting her head. "Are you tired? Let''s go back inside and sleep."


    Ophelia sensed the atmosphere was a bit off but didn''t ask questions. She nodded and settled back into her wheelchair.


    Keh pushed her as they walked past DarkHawk.


    DarkHawk clenched and unclenched his hands at his sides, watching Keh''s retreating figure in silence.


    The other members of the guild quickly followed. As Barrett walked past DarkHawk, he thought of patting him on the shoulder, but his hand stopped in mid-air."


    In the quiet underground parking lot of the hotel,te into the night, Eric sat in the passenger seat, leaning back with his hands behind his head, a candy Ray bought for him dangling from his mouth. "Wasn''t that Dark Hawk a guild member before?" Eric asked, spinning the candy stick.


    The passenger door was open, and Ray stood outside, a cigarette flickering between his rough fingertips. "Ha! Dark Hawk He''s just called DarkHawk. Yeah, that''s right, he used to be in the guild." "So why isn''t he now?" Eric crunched the candy in his mouth.


    "Every member of the guild has a partner. When they go on a mission, theye back together. DarkHawk''s partner was called Sherry, one of the few girls in the guild."


    There clearly was a story behind that. But Ray didn''t really exin their rtionship and just continued to speak, "But during one mission, Sherry didn''t return, and DarkHawk''s leg got injured. "Because of this, he held a grudge against Keh and retaliated by leaking confidential information to a rival organization. The guild suffered significant losses, and a few members were injured.


    "Keh was actually quite merciful, just expelling him from the guild without seeking further revenge. Surprisingly, he managed to establish himself here in Golten."


    Eric remained silent and waited until he finished the candy before he asked, "So, if one day I don''te back, will you have another partner?"


    He jumped out of the car, his obsidian eyes fixed on Ray. He asked sincerely, as if the question wasn''t a matter of life and death but just a small issue.


    Ray was caught off guard. He had always gone on missions alone, being the only one in the guild without a partner or without a regr partner. Later, he went on two missions with Eric. They cooperated well, so they continued to team up. Being asked this question suddenly reminded him why he was so determined not to have a partner in the first ce. He was afraid that his partner wouldn''te back, and he''d be the one who did.


    In their line of work, they had long stopped seeing life and death as very important, but interactions with others couldn''t be without feelings.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    The cigarette between his fingers burned down to his hand, bringing Ray back to reality. He frowned and instinctively


    squeezed Eric''s shoulder. His raspy voice from smoking sounded like a promise. "You''ll be back," And we will bothe back, Ray thought to himself.

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    Chapter 303 80%1


    The next morning, after having breakfast, Keh and Ophelia set off for Jenton. When three cars drove out of the underground parking lot, they saw a row of vehicles parked at the hotel entrance, led by DarkHawk.


    He took a few steps forward. Caleb nced at the man in the backseat through the rearview mirror, then stopped the car and rolled down the window.


    "Keh, I heard you''re going to Jenton. It''s quite unstable over there. I''ll send two vehicles to apany you."


    The man''s well-defined face was reflected in the car window, his deep eyes under the sses slowly lifting. "No need for that," His voice was deep and cold. DarkHawk took a deep breath and lowered his head. "Keh, I was wrong about the incident back then. Please give me a chance to make it right."


    Back then, he listened to others and thought Keh deliberately sent him and Sherry to their deaths. He only survived because he was fortunate.


    Later, it was discovered that Keh had tried his best to rescue them when he realized it was a trap. Sherry''sst words were to tell Keh to save him first. Yet he did something that wasn''t right for the guild. Keh looked away and didn''t say another word, while Caleb wisely rolled up the car window. Three cars drove past DarkHawk.


    Ophelia asked the question Eric had askedst night, but before Keh could respond, the two people in front exined the whole story, one after the other.


    "So, were Sherry and DarkHawk a couple?"


    Caleb nodded while Barrett shook his head, and they exchanged nces.


    Caleb said, "Of course not! The guild doesn''t allow dating!"N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Barrett retorted, "Are you blind? It was super obvious."


    Ophelia was speechless, thinking she shouldn''t have asked that many questions.


    Caleb and Barrett argued about this topic the whole way. If it weren''t for her and Keh sitting in the back, they probably would''ve argued the roof off the car.


    The car had traveled quite a distance. Ophelia nced back and felt the unseen presence trailing them, guessing Keh sensed it too. Keh had actually given DarkHawk a chance to make it up to him.


    After leaving the city, the highway began to narrow, and the scenery changed drastically. Tall, dense forests surrounded them as the car moved from paved roads to dirt paths, eventually entering small town areas.


    They crossed several districts in less than half a day, arriving in a remote vige nestled by the mountains. The gate bore the name "Tansoton" in big, bold letters.


    Getting here smoothly was all thanks to DarkHawk''s coordination behind the scenes. After escorting them to the ce, their vehicle discreetly withdrew to a spot out of sight.


    Ophelia got out of the car. Today, she had practically begged Keh not to make her use the wheelchair again. Feeling her feet on the ground, she couldn''t help but jog a few steps, move around the car, and link arms with Keh. 09:54 Mon, Dec 9


    They looked like tourists: Even the usually serious Keh wore a matching couple''s vacation outfit, and his usual ck baseball cap was swapped for a cream-colored one.


    His demeanor had transformed from his usual seriousness to a sunny disposition, totally overshadowing Ronin standing by them.


    Walking behind them, Ronin carried a silver-gray metal case, scanning the area with his sunsses on.


    The area was lush with trees. Rice paddies stretched at the mountain''s base, and each family lived in wooden houses climbing up the slopes. Layer uponyer, extending from far to hear. The information Emma provided was quite urate. As soon as they entered the vige, a middle-aged man in flip-flops climbed down from a hammock and blocked their path. "Are you here to search for poison bugs?"


    Ophelia exchanged a nce with Keh.


    "Everyone whoes here is looking for those bugs. Otherwise why would anyone visit such a deste ce? Follow me," The man fanned himself as he led the way.


    The ce was small, with just a few dozen households. In front of nearly every home was a row of ck ceramic jars about the size of oranges. The information matched almost exactly..


    The neers caught the attention of the vigers rxing under the trees, who looked over with curiosity. They spoke the local dialect, which was hard to understand without listening carefully because of the strong ent.


    Almost everyone here seemed elderly. There wasn''t a single young person in sight. The midday sun was zing. The man kept fanning himself vigorously and took big breaths as he headed toward the mountain.


    Keh stopped in his tracks, released Ophelia, and crouched down in front of her. "Climb on, I''ll give you a piggyback ride."


    Judging by the looks of it, they still had quite a distance to go. The bumpy dirt road was definitely going to make it hard for her to walk.


    Ophelia didn''t want to waste any time on this matter. She just wanted to find a cure for Keh as soon as possible. Without a moment''s hesitation, she climbed onto his back.


    She took a small portable fan that was hanging around her neck and used it to cool him.


    The group trailing behind them felt like they were witnessing a clich¨¦d romantic scene. Especially Ronin, who was struggling with a heavy suitcase.


    "Hey! Sir, when will we be there?"


    "Almost there," The old man started waving his fan faster. Even though they were quite exhausted on their way up the mountain, the old man kept rambling about the miraculous qualities of these poison bugs. It sounded like a sales pitch. "Sir, you''re really missing your calling if you''re not in sales," Ronin said as he switched hands to carry the suitcase.


    "Well, I''m telling the truth. Our poison bugse from secret families and can cure all sorts of diseases that can''t be treated elsewhere.


    "Unfortunately, our inte isn''t well-developed, so we can''t spread the word. Besides, it takes a lot of time to cultivate these bugs, and they might not even match a person''s blood."


    A match?" Ronin, being a medical professional, relied on science and hadn''t studied these alternative remedies. He found it sounded so mystical. He came here specifically to study it. If these bugs were truly that effective, it could be a major breakthrough in medical science.


    09.04


    IVION, LANG Y


    Ophelia remained silent, het heart pounding with anxiety.


    Keh, as if sensing Ophelia''s emotions behind him, gently reassured, "There''s nothing to worry about. We have other methods."


    He had made up his mind. The other method he referred to was the surgical n Ronin had previously suggested. In the past, he was afraid the surgery would fail and didn''t want to burden her.


    But now, he wanted to take a chance for Ophelia. Rather than wating for death and letting her suffer, he thought he might as well give it a try. He wanted to keep going for her sake.


    Opheliay on his back, hugged him tightly, and nodded gently twice. She knew he was trying tofort her.


    After about ten minutes of walking, they reached a spot halfway up the mountain, surrounded by a circle of tall trees enclosing a yard. The yard was neatly kept, and the wooden house looked like it had seen better days.


    The old man pushed open the gate and walked in, calling toward the house, "Tanya, someone''s here to ask for the bugs."

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    COMMENT Chapter


    304


    It was a long time after the old man''s voice faded before anyone inside responded.


    "Just hold on for a moment. I''ll go in and check," The old man stepped up the stairs. Just then, the door of the wooden house was gently pushed open from the inside.


    An elderly woman in a blue outfit with white polka dots emerged, her hairpletely white and meticulously rolled back. Her clothing was simple and unassuming. Despite the deep wrinkles on her face, it was obvious she had been quite a beauty in her youth. "Where are you folksing from?" The old woman''s voice was strong with the heaviness of experience.


    The old man, like a trantor, looked at Ophelia and the others. Tanya asked where you''re from."


    "Hello, Tanya. We''re from Denex, and we''ve heard that your poison bugs can cure unusual illnesses, so we came here just for treatment," Ophelia spoke honestly. Denex was pretty far away, which should prove their sincerity.


    Upon hearing the word ''Denex'', a hint of disdain crossed Tanya''s previously nk face. She looked at them with indifference and coldly said, "Please show yourselves out," After saying that, she turned and went back inside. Ophelia was taken aback and exchanged a nce with Keh beside her. They didn''t know what was wrong with theming from Denex. "Tanya, wait," Ophelia took a few steps forward.


    Tanya halted but showed no sign of turning around. "There''s no need to ask, just leave. I won''t treat anyone from Denex."


    "Why? Is there some misunderstanding you have about the people from Denex?"


    Tanya remained silent and entered the cabin without looking back. A faint herbal scent drifted from the cabin, but it was peculiar that the small ck bottles they had seen along the way were not in sight here. Ophelia, determined not to give up, climbed a few steps only to be stopped by the old man.


    "I''m truly sorry. I forgot to mention earlier. Tanya has a rule she never treats people from Denex. Even if your family is ruined by drugs, she won''t intervene, so it''s best if you leave."


    Ophelia was puzzled, "Then what about the other vigers? I heard many vigers here raise poison bugs," In essence, she wanted to ask others for help.


    "You might not know this, but although every household raises these poison bugs, only Tanya knows how to heal using them. She chooses who gets treated, while others just raise the bugs."


    Whoever''s bugs were chosen for treatment would earn the money from selling them. Everyone in the vige relied on Tanya''s healing skills to make money, so naturally, it was up to her who she decided to treat. "Sorry, please leave now."


    Ophelia was still reluctant to give up. She didn''t know why Tanya wouldn''t treat people from Denex. She anxiously furrowed her brows, feeling like half her hope was shattered. She persistently wanted to ask more questions, but Keh gently held her hand. "If that''s the case, don''t push it. Let''s go."


    "No, I can''t just give up like this," She couldn''t let go of finding a method to heal Keh. Ophelia broke free from his hand and marched into the house, even the old man at the door couldn''t stop her.


    The interior was very simple, with a room where two people were lying, one man and one woman.


    The man had his eyes closed and was so thin that he was all skin and bones. His face was dark, and his exposed skin was deathly pale. His arms were bruised with blue and purple marks, clearly indicating drug use. 09:54 Mon, Dec 9


    Chapter 304-


    The woman had a waxyplexion, but it was unknown what less she had. The twoy there quietly as Tanya opened a porcin bottle and ced a small, crystal-clear blue and white insect into the man''s ear.


    The little flying bug looked a bit like a bee but was much smaller with transparent blue wings, not even half the size of a fingernail. Tanya ced three of them into the man''s ear one after the other.


    A few minutester, the little bug flew out of the man''s other ear. The bug, originally crystal clear, turned ck in an instant.


    Ophelia took a sharp breath. Even though she had read about it before, seeing it with her own eyes was shocking. She was surprised that there was really such a miraculous thing.


    After dealing with the bugs, Tanya suddenly pulled the curtain aside, stood up, and looked at Ophelia with hostility. "Are people from Denex always this rude? You just can''t be driven away!" Her voice suddenly turned cold. She seemed to have much animosity towards Denex.


    "I''m sorry, Tanya. I didn''t mean to offend you. I apologize," Ophelia bowed to her, her tone full of pleading. "I just want to know, how can you-"


    "I don''t treat people from Denex," Tanya emphasized thest word, her gaze firm and indifferent.


    Ophelia''s pride was as strong as anyone''s. "I beg you. You can name any condition."


    Keh/stepped into the wooden cabin, and those were the words he overheard. Ophelia, being his girl, didn''t need to beg anyone for anything.


    "Name your terms," The man stood in the doorway, overshadowing half the light.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Tanya snorted, without even lifting her head, her back as straight as a ruler. "I''m afraid you can''t do it."


    Ronin followed closely behind Keh as they entered the room together. His tall build blocked out half of the light. Hearing Tanya''s words, he raised an eyebrow slightly, thinking Tanya probably didn''t know who was standing right in front of her. Just because others couldn''t do it didn''t mean Keh couldn''t.


    "What is it?" Ophelia saw there was room for negotiation, and hope sparked in her eyes.


    "I want everyone in Denex to die! Can you do that?" Tanya smirked, looking at the three of them at her own pace.


    Ophelia couldn''t believe what Tanya had said. Tanya wasn''t setting conditions at all. She was deliberately messing with them. They couldn''t possibly make everyone in Denex die. The hope in her eyes slowly faded.


    Keh''s eyes narrowed slightly beneath his sses as he scrutinized Tanya. He looked away and pulled Ophelia, heading out. There was nothing more to talk about.


    Anyone who could say such things must have a deep hatred for Denex. Whatever the reason, it was irrelevant to them and not something they could easily solve.


    Ronin paused. "Hey, I''m not from Denex!" That was when he remembered.


    "Are you sick?" Tanya asked.


    Ronin was speechless. "Can I at least buy a few bugs to study?"


    "We don''t sell poison bugs, and they die once they leave anyway! The old man at the door exined.


    Tanya ignored them and went back inside with another ck porcin bottle.


    Ophelia was led out of the courtyard by Keh. She couldn''t believe they were actually leaving,


    Keh stopped, looking at Ophelia. "I told you, there''s another way," He brushed her cheek, his brows furrowed under the brim of his hat. "Listen up, you''re with me, and I won''t let you lower yourself to beg anyone, got it?"

 Jilted Bride 305

    Ophelia looked up at Keh and saw the deep concern and reluctance in his eyes. Her heart felt like it had a crack in it, and even though the zing sun was warming everything, she felt a chill from her hair to her toes.


    Ever since she learned of Keh''s illness, she had been suppressing all her emotions, with every nerve tense. She was scared, absolutely terrified. But she couldn''t show it. But at that moment, when she met Keh''s gaze, she couldn''t hold back any longer. She wrapped her arms around his waist, burying her head in his chest. "I heard you. You don''t need tofort me."


    Ophelia thought Keh wasforting her. He gently patted her on the head. "I''m not just trying tofort you. It''s true."


    "Is there really a way?" She asked, lifting her head with teary eyes


    "Yeah."


    Ronin hurriedly came out of the courtyard. Keh looked at him and said, "I''m going to go through with the surgery," He was willing to take a gamble for Ophelia.


    "Surgery? Can it really work?" Ophelia''s eyes lit up with hope again. Honestly, if she hadn''t felt there was no other choice, she wouldn''t have believed in the whole "poison bugs" thing. She turned her head and followed Keh''s gaze toward Ronin. Ronin was taken aback, his eyes shining in the sunlight. "Huh? Let''s talk on our way back," This wasn''t the best ce to discuss it. If surgery was the decision, he needed to arrange it as soon as possible. Too much time had been wasted.


    Seeing him nervously holding the case as he walked down the mountain, Ophelia and Keh exchanged a nce and followed him down.


    Once in the car, Ronin quickly opened the silver metal case and looked for a container. The two in the back curiously looked over and saw two tiny blue bugs lying quietly in his palm.


    "Shhh. I took them to bring back for research," Ronin quickly ced the two little bugs into a container. "This trip wasn''tpletely pointless."


    In the sunlight, inside the ss jar, the two little bugs fluttered their blue transparent wings, clinging to the ss wall. On the way back, Ronin discussed the previous surgery n with Ophelia.


    "Then what''s the sess rate?" Ophelia asked, feeling her palms tighten, her nails digging into her skin without realizing.


    "The sess rate was about twenty percent before."


    Ophelia immediately caught the words. It was twenty percent before, so now, as time went on, the chances were definitely getting lower.


    Seeing her worried expression, Ronin quickly reassured her, "Actually, the survival rate is still over thirty percent. The remaining chances might just mean an iplete surgery, potential damage to brain tissue, or-" "Or what?"


    "Or end up like Noah."


    Ophelia took a moment to process, Keh might end up losing his memory. Her heart sank instantly. She thought as long as he could survive, even if he forgot about her, that would be okay.


    Ophelia lowered her eyes and held Keh''s hand. After all, in this lifetime, she wasn''t nning to ever let go of his hand.


    09:54 Mon. Dec 9 Chapter 305N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Keh nced at Romin, questioning why he needed to exin so thoroughly. He wanted to hold Ophelia''s hand back, bur found that this time, she was gripping it particrly tight.


    I''ll be with you," Ophelia would always stay with Keh. No matter the oue, she would remain by his side.


    In making the decision, Keh felt like a huge weight had been lifted off his heart. He looked at Ophelia, wondering juss how amazing she really was. When she was by his side, all he could think about was staying alive, free from any worries. He lifted her chin and kissed her without any hesitation. Slowly be took in her breath.


    Ronin, who had been sitting sideways, was surprised that they were still showing off their affection towards each other in such a critical situation. After all, they were here to find a solution, not on a vacation.


    After Keh kissed her as if nobody else was around, he held her head and pressed his forehead against hers. His eyes regained their usual arrogance, like a dark whirlpool ready to draw her in. "Don''t worry, I''m not going down that easy He would fight with all his strength for Ophelia.


    Ophelia nodded, wrapped her arms around his neck, and ced a gentle kiss on his lips.


    The car retraced the same path it had taken earlier, Just after leaving the vige, Ronin could clearly see the blue transparent bugs inside the bottle gradually turning ck. "Stop! Stop!"


    He thought it was because of the sunlight, so he quickly moved it to a shady ce. The car stopped, and Ronin got out, quickly grabbing his equipment from his case to start examining the bugs before theypletely turned ck.


    The three cars, along with the two further away, all stopped to wait for him. They ended up waiting for two hours. During this time, they also took a short rest in the car.


    Back on the road, as the car drove out of the dense forest, the thick leaves blocked the sunset, with small patches of light filtering through the branches and scattering on the ground.


    Since no one had eaten at noon, they found a ce to get some food in the downtown area. Once they left Jenton, they''d have to rush back to Denex overnight, probably arriving early the next morning.


    Evening hadn''t fully set in yet, but the dirty businesses on the main street were already open.


    The guild members had well-defined roles. Ray and the others joined Keh and Ophelia for a meal inside, while the rest kept watch outside, diligently doing their jobs.


    "This ce is really messy," Caleb said as he squatted by a street stall, ncing around. Across the street, Barrett also looked around. "You bet," The two of them chatted casually for a while.


    In a restaurant with vintage decor, they originally wanted to go to a private room upstairs, but it was already full. So, they had to eat on the ground floor.


    While waiting for the food, Ophelia suddenly felt like going to the restroom. She stood up, her gaze falling on Mnie. "I need to use the restroom. Mnie, would youe with me?" In such an unfamiliar and chaotic city, she had to be careful. "Of course, Mrs. Sinir," Mnie quickly stood up.


    "Don''t need me to go along?" Keh tilted his hat up to look at her.


    "No need, we''re girls. It''s easier that way," Ophelia thought Keh was too noticeable. So it was better if he didn''t stand at


    the restroom door.


    Keh''s gaze only turned away after he saw her enter the restroom.


    Mnie closely protected her, almost going into the restroom with her. "Mrs. Sinir, there''s something I''ve never exined before. I identally saw Keh''s tattoo on his chest 80%


    "I didn''t pay you much attention earlier because I thought you might be a burden to Keh, but now I have nothing but respect for you now. I hope you can forgive me." Ophelia pushed the door open, and Mnie quickly stepped aside. "It''s all in the past. I haven''t thought much about it


    She washed her hands at the sink, and as she turned around, she saw two peopleing down from upstairs. The man waspletely drunk, holding a still-charmingdy in his arms. The two were swaying as they walked, and Ophelia couldn''t dodge in time, getting her shoulder heavily hit by the man.

 Jilted Bride 306

    The man didn''t even bother to apologize. He gave Ophelia a quick nce before the wofnan beside him helped him leave.


    Mnie saw it and was angry that the man didn''t even apologize after hitting Ophelia. She was so angry she was about to confront them, but Ophelia pulled her back. "It''s alright, let''s head back," Ophelia said, clenching her fist as she watched the man and woman leave the restaurant and get


    into a car.


    Once back at her seat, she opened her hand under the table to find a note that read, [Meeting time moved up, please hand this note to the waffle stand owner.] Keh nced down and saw the note in her hand. "What''s happening?" He asked quietly.


    She calmly picked up some food and said with a serene expression, "Let''s eat first," She clutched the note again and thought for a moment, roughly guessing the man''s identity.


    ces like Jenton were full of mixed crowds and transactions, with undercover agents being amon presence. She vaguely remembered reading a news article in her previous life.


    The biggest drug dealer, Fabio, reached into its borders. The police once sent nearly a hundred people in a joint manhunt. Unfortunately, Fabio managed to escape. Two yearster, the president sent out arge group ofnd, sea, and air personnel and caught him.


    If she remembered correctly, this was around the time of the first crackdown. She recalled the man''s deep and meaningful look at her. It made her want to trust her instincts.


    Conveying information like this was certainly ast resort, and being pursued made it hard to break free easily. This was something she feltpelled to assist with.


    In a private room on the second floor, a middle-aged man dressed in white meditation clothes was sipping coffee with interest. His long, gray-white hair was tied at the back of his head, with a pair of round sses perched on his nose.


    "Mr. Sanchez, can we trust Carl? He drank a lot today. He even bumped into a woman on his way downstairs. Could there be something suspicious going on?", asked a bald man.


    The middle-aged man replied in broken Thalorin, "Keep an eye on that woman."


    "Yes."


    Downstairs, Ophelia casually nced at the food stall owner outside the restaurant and said, "Honey, I feel like having some waffles, too. I''m going to get some to-go."


    Keh frowned at her, wondering if she really intended to send a message to someone. He thought it was too dangerous and didn''t want her to go. It had nothing to do with them.


    Just by looking at Keh''s expression, she knew he wouldn''t let her go. Convincing him would be a waste of time. She used her trump card and kissed him on the cheek. "I''ll be right back."


    Keh gently took her hand, his furrowed brow easing a bit. "Ill go with you."


    "No need, it''s just at the door. You''re way too noticeable," She should just go by herself.


    Just as Mnie was about to get up, Ophelia''gave her a look, indicating she should stay seated.


    Chapter 300 0080%


    She couldn''t let rte tag along either. With her trained skills, she had a clear bodyguard vibe. Those people were very


    cautious, and when that man bumped into her earlier, she clearly spotted a figure at the corner of the second floor.


    If they sent someone to watch her when she was delivering the message, it could raise suspicion.Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Keh sighed helplessly, wondering why Ophelia would be so kind to help a stranger.


    Ophelia felt it was just a small favor, so she was determined to do it. She gave him another kiss. "Besides, Caleb and Barrett are just around the corner, It''ll be fine," Before Keh could agree, she got up and dashed out. Keh lifted his eyelids, his gaze closely following her.


    In front of the waffle stand, Caleb and Barrett were sitting there, having a snack. Caleb took a small bite, immediately making a face as if he had bitten into something very unpleasan


    "The food in this ce really leaves a lot to be desired. It''s just terrible."


    "Let''s pack up two portions to bring back for Roger and Husonter."


    "Great idea."


    As theirughter faded, Ophelia walked out of the restaurant. She approached the stand and said, "I''d like a chocte one, please."


    "Mrs. Sinir, I''d advise you to be careful with the waffle," Caleb whispered.


    Ophelia pretended not to hear, and as she paid, she discreetly slipped the note in with the money.


    The stall owner looked practiced as he made the waffle, his fingers tightening slightly as he quickly took the money.


    Ophelia chatted with the owner about various topics, wearing a somewhat clueless expression. Standing there, she could keenly sense, apart from Keh, another sharp and sinister gaze fixated on her.


    After Ophelia packed up the waffle and returned to the restaurant, the bald man on the second floor of the hotel silently pulled the curtains.


    "Mr. Sanchez, that woman just ordered a waffle at the entrance, and she seemed pretty clueless. She must be a tourist visiting the area, nothing unusual," The bald man reported.


    "Okay, inform Carl that the transaction is going as usual," This was already his third time testing Carl.


    As soon as the bald man called Carl, he heard a low voice from the other side. "Carl, let''s make the deal."


    "Damn it, are you messing with me? I''m in the shower, and now you''re telling me to make the deal? Crap!"


    Hearing the voice on the phone, the middle-aged man smirked. He reached out his hand, and the bald man quickly handed him the phone.


    "Don''t be upset, Carl. Once this deal is done, you won''t have to worry about not having women around. I''ve brought the goods. You cane check." "Well, at least you''re being sincere."


    A few minutester, the pickup truck from before pulled up again in front of the restaurant.


    Ophelia and her group finished eating and left the restaurant, just as Carl and the woman brushed by them.


    Carl''s face flickered through her mind. It seemed somewhat familiar. She remembered in the previous life, he was


    mentioned in the news during the first raid, which had heavy casualties. It seemed there was a ck and white portrait of Chapter 306


    him.


    Ophelia felt a sudden jolt in her heart.


    Inside the booth, Fabio suddenly thought of something and asked the bald man next to him, "Earlier, how did that woman pay when she bought the waffle?"


    The bald man didn''t understand what Fabio meant by this. "She just paid like usual."


    "Cash or mobile?"


    The bald man rolled his eyes. "It was cash."


    Fabio''s expression turned intense as he quickly stood up, pulled back the curtain, and looked downstairs. This usually busy triangr street was now eerily quiet. A bad feeling rose inside him. "Let''s go!"

 Jilted Bride 307

    The group hurriedly escaped like mice, rushing out through the restaurant''s back door. Behind the restaurant, there was arge area of barrennd and a dense forest. Several pickup trucks were there to assist, each loaded with heavy weapons in the back. Carl, who had just entered the restaurant, immediately realized that Fabio must have sensed something was wrong.


    The woman next to him was about to pull out her gun when Car quickly disarmed her in two moves. The n was suddenly thrown into disarray.


    The backup SWAT team hadn''t arrived yet, and they were short on manpower, so he had no choice but to make a stand. He absolutely couldn''t let the biggest drug dealer in the Delta region escape.


    Just as Ophelia and her team stepped out of the restaurant, a gunshot sounded behind them. The restaurant window shattered with a single shot.


    The twenty people who had been dining in the restaurant, including the staff, all stood up and drew guns from their waists. Two men sitting at the door moved to protect Ophelia and the others, one on each side.


    No harm shoulde to innocent people. "Hurry and leave!" Carl said firmly with determination in his eyes.


    The entire guild quickly surrounded Keh and Ophelia, protecting them as they got ready to leave.


    The other SWAT officers swarmed towards the back door, while several cars on the street headed to the back of the


    restaurant.


    A fierce battle broke out in the dense woods behind the restaurant, with the constant sound of machine


    gun fire.


    Caleb and his team drove the three SUVS parked at the end of the block over to pick them up. This ce wasn''t safe to stay in for long.


    The car door swung open, but Ophelia''s action suddenly halted. She turned her head to look at the inclothes officers standing in front of them. Those faces looked familiar, like they were from that news story. But every single one was a ck-and-white memorial photo. Her eyes gradually grew more resolute, as if she were making a decision. "Keh-"


    121


    Keh frowned. He didn''t need her to finish. He already knew what she intended to do. He wasn''t someone who did grand acts. He just wanted her to be safe. "No way," His tone left no room for discussion. "Keh, you know me," Ophelia couldn''t just stand by and watch.


    Their eyes met in the air for a few seconds, and in the end, it was Keh who gave in. "Alright, but lead."


    "Okay," Ophelia jumped out of the car.


    you must follow my


    They stood at the entrance, showing no sign of leaving. Two SWAT officers didn''t know what they nned to do and urged them nervously, "You need to go now! It''s dangerous here!" Keh took off his hat and turned around, revealing the face known to everyone in Heloria.


    "You-You''re K-Keh?" The two SWAT officers immediately recognized him, exchanged looks, and promptly reported to themand center. Themand center immediately passed the report up the line. The top leader of the military, Victor, received news that among those involved in the crackdown on drug dealers in Jenton were members of the Sinir Group, including Keh and others.


    Victor looked serious and inmediately told someone to zoom in the drone footage on the transaction site.


    Meanwhile, Keh also started giving orders. "Caleb, take Dr. West to a safe ce first. Everyone else, help the police with the arrests," He ordered coldly. Every word was strong and powerful, just like whenever he gave a mission. "Yes, sir!" The guild members nodded together, opening the car runks in an orderly fashion and assembling their guns.


    DarkHawk, who had been escorting them from a distance, heard the gunfire and thought Keh and his team might be in trouble, so he rushed over, As they arrived at the restaurant entrance, they saw the group, armed as usual, ready for the mission.


    DarkHawk had just found out what was happening here today and was surprised to see that Keh decided to stay assist. "Keh, we have more people avable."


    "You''re no longer a member of the guild," Keh said with a cold voice.


    DarkHawk lowered his head.


    The two SWAT officers quickly removed a bulletproof vest each and handed one to Keh.


    and


    Their expressions seemed to say that if he didn''t wear it, they couldn''t let him go, as the risk of the fight was too great. He was such an important person in Heloria, and they wouldn''t dare let him join the operation without approval. Keh took the bulletproof vest and wore it over his white shirt. As soon as he put it on, he noticed Ophelia holding a gun, looking ready to jump into action herself.


    His brow furrowed as he looked at DarkHawk. "Help me keep an eye on her."


    "Huh? Yes!" DarkHawk, who had been feeling down, lit up immediately upon being given an assignment by Keh and nodded quickly.


    Ophelia was surprised that Keh would stop her from helping out.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Stay put. You know me well," He couldn''t let her take those risks. His tone carried a warning, "If you won''t help them out."


    don''t listen to me, I


    Ophelia thought Keh was threatening her. Her palms clenched in frustration. She had barely taken two steps forward when DarkHawk''s men blocked her path. "Don''t worry, Keh


    Mnie and Bighost drove a car around the restaurant and into the thick woods.


    Keh epted a rifle from Ray and led the other guild members through the restaurant toward the forest.


    Ophelia could only stand there, anxious and helpless, watching Keh''s figure disappear through the restaurant''s back door.


    A loud explosion erupted from the heart of the forest, sending dust swirling into the sky.


    Ophelia''s heart skipped a beat, anxiety tightening her chest. She wasn''t familiar with DarkHawk, so she kept silent. She nced around. "Can I at least get in the car?" Without waiting for a response, she opened the car door and slipped inside.


    As soon as the second explosion went off, she couldn''t sit still any longer. She closed the car door and quickly moved to the driver''s seat up front. She started the car, hit the gas, and drove towards the back of the restaurant.


    DarkHawk obviously didn''t expect this and quickly got back into the car with his men to chase after Ophelia.


    Deep in the forest, smoke and chaos filled the air. The other side had a lot of people, mostly mercenaries.


    They stood at the back of a pickup truck, holding heavy machine guns, firing continuously without needing to reload,


    leaving no room for the others to fight back.


    The first SWAT team members who rushed in were already seriously injured, but the others stubbornly kept trying to push forward. At that moment, gunfire erupted from behind them as well.


    Ray, a burly man, held the same weapon as the enemy and fired back with even greater uracy. In just a few moments, the enemy''s firepower noticeably weakened.


    The leading SWAT officers immediately took the chance tounch a strong attack from both sides.


    Keh''s gaze was cold as he walked forward confidently with a rifle, hitting each target precisely, bullet to the head. Even as bullets zipped past his ear, his eyes stayed indifferent,cking any human emotion. Even in the midst of heavy gunfire and chaos, nothing could stop him. Whoever stood in his way, he''d defeat them, whether they were human or divine.


    Eric moved fluidly and worked perfectly with Ray, using his handgun to deal with the henchmen rushing at them. But the other side was filled with reckless fighters, who had far greater numbers and firepower. "Keh, be careful!" Ray warned in raspy voice.

 Jilted Bride 308

    Chapter 308 80%


    Keh didn''t blink an eye, as if he had eyes in the back of his head. He spun around and fired a shot. In an instant, he took down the man aiming at him with precision.


    The guild members saw Keh''s skills for the first time today, and they were far superior to theirs.


    A loud explosion urred, mud flew everywhere amidst the chaos of battle.


    Keh''s sses were smeared with grime, hindering his vision slightly, yet he stayed calm and collected, as if everything was still within his grasp.


    Even with mud stains on his white shirt, hismanding presence was unmistakable. He wore a ck bulletproof vest over his lean and sturdy frame.


    At this moment, he walked forward, rifle in hand, seeming to ignore everyone in front of him, like a reaper from hell with bloodlust burning in his eyes.


    Mnie and Ghost drove around to nk the enemy, opened the sunroof, mounted heavy weapons on top, andunched a relentless barrage from both sides.


    Another explosion sounded as Barrett suddenly dived, losing his grip on his gun. As he reached for it, bullets zipped past from the front. Each shot stirred up clouds of dust in the yellow dirt.


    Barrett pulled back his hand, leaning against the tree trunk as a bullet skimmed his shoulder. He gritted his teeth, pulled out. the gun from his waist, turned, and fired a shot.


    Eric''s gun quickly ran out of bullets, and as he was changing the clip, the enemy threw a grenade at him. "Ray!"


    Ray was holding a heavy machine gun when he turned around. But before he could react, Eric tackled him to the ground.


    The grenade exploded behind them, sending dirt flying and covering Eric. There was no time to react as a machine gun started shooting at them from a distance. The two quickly dodged on the ground, got up, and fired back. Keh was hiding behind a wide tree, reloading his gun. As soon as he showed even a bit of himself, the enemy began to spray bullets. He was targeted by two groups, giving him no chance to counterattack. This dy allowed Fabio and his group to escape deeper into the dense forest.


    Above them, a rumbling sound echoed in the sky. They looked up with grave expressions, as the ne''s direction seemed to be heading to meet Fabio and his cargo, rather thaning to support them. After flying over their heads, it drove off in the direction Fabio had escaped. The police quickly jumped into their vehicles to chase after.


    Just then, a ck SUV skidded to a stop next to the tree where Keh was hiding. Ophelia leaped out of the vehicle, using it as a shield, and turned to fire a shot across the way. The sound of machine gun fire suddenly stopped. She moved around to the other side of the vehicle. Another shot, and she took down someone on the other side.


    Keh squinted at Ophelia, his bloodthirsty gaze bing even more sinister. "Ophelia," He gritted his teeth and slowly spat out her name, each syble filled with fury.


    "All guild members have partners, and you should too. I''m your partner, so you''ll protect me, right?"


    Keh was momentarily taken aback, exhaling heavily. He should''ve known Ophelia wouldn''t y it safe.


    Right behind Ophelia were DarkHawk and the others, quickly moving to help Barrett and the rest of the team. Seeing this,


    Ophelia looked up at the helicopter slowlying down.


    "Get in the car first. That helicopter''s probably here for backup. We can''t let them get away," With that, Ophelia turned to Ray and Eric "You two, get in the car!" With cover from DarkHawk and the others, Ray and Eric moved toward the car. They needed to chase them and couldn''t waste any more time here.


    The two of them got in the car, and as Ophelia opened the driver''s door, Keh stopped her. "What''s wrong?"


    Keh didn''t say anything, looking upset. He took off his bulle proof vest and put it on Ophelia without a word.


    Just beyond the dense forest was a wide river, making it easy to escape.


    Carl was the first to give chase and had just surrounded Fabio''s car when the helicopter flew over, its machine guns firing wildly.


    Clouds of yellow sand rose around them as a boat appeared on the river, and from it emerged a group of mercenaries who quickly surrounded Carl and his team.


    Soon, Carl and a few officers were badly injured, held at gunpoint by the mercenaries. The cruelty of drug traffickers towards narcotics officers was something most people could hardly imagine.


    If they fell into their hands, the final oue was certain death, but they wouldn''t make it an easy one.


    The bald man from earlier pointed a gun at Carl''s head. Fabio stepped out of the armored vehicle. Despite the chaos and gunfire around, his white robe remained pristine.


    He was surrounded by his own men, and with most of the officers dealt with, he was sure he would escape, so he wasn''t afraid to say a few more words.


    "I didn''t expect you to pass my tests three times, my friend," Fabio adjusted his round sses, showing some admiration for the Helorian narcotics officers. Getting through all thoseyers of testing to finally reach him was no easy task. Carl''s face was full of blood, and when he smiled, his teeth were covered too. He had to use his own life to hold them back, buying time for backup to arrive.


    Fabio gestured for the bald man to lower his gun. "I admire you, but you know, I hate being lied to, yet you tricked me three times," Fabio looked at the SWAT officers behind Carl.


    "Here''s the deal. You lied to me three times, so I''ll take three lives. Pick three people from behind you and kill them yourself, or I''ll do it for you."


    Carl quickly turned to look at his woundedrades.


    "Pick me, Carl."


    Carl looked at each of them. They were all hisrades, some were even married with kids. There were also two young officers, both so inexperienced, neither could be killed.


    He shook his head frantically, his eyes bloodshot, and streaks of blood ran from his forehead into his eyes.


    "I''ll count to three, and if you don''t choose, I''ll pull the trigger. One, two-"


    "Kill me, just kill me!" Carl shouted.


    "Well," Fabio chuckled darkly. "There are worse punishments than death in this world. Three," As Fabio''s words fell, a


    mercenary behind the officer cocked his gun.Content is ? by N?velDrama.Org.


    A gunshot rang out. But it was the mercenary with the gun who fell to the ground.


    BOX


    Keh took out the heavy machine gun operator on the helicopter, sending a body plummeting from above.


    Fabio didn''t know Carl had more backup. His expression turned grim.


    "Mr. Sanchez, get to the boat!" A nearby mercenary said, raising his gun ready for battle to shield Fabio as they transported the goods and the hidden money. At the same time, they lifted the injured officers as human shields. This way, Keh wouldn''t dare to fire.

 Jilted Bride 309

    Carl narrowed his bloodshot eyes at Ophelia, surprise flickering briefly in his gaze. He would never expect to see her here.


    Ophelia drove a mud-sttered bulletproof SUV, maneuvering round the mercenaries. With their hands full and unable to turn quickly, she circled them with ease.


    Eric rolled down the car window andunched a surprise attack from behind the mercenaries. Ray set up his heavy machine gun and started firing at those on the boat. They absolutely couldn''t let them escape like this. "Drive over to that hill," Keh instructed. With trees and a higher elevation, it was an advantageous position.


    The usuallyposed Fabio was now unsettled. He snatched a submachine gun from a mercenary and fought back, aiming directly at the special forces officers.


    Ophelia couldn''t drive up the hill, so she parked the bulletproof SUV in front of the officers, shielding them from the bullets.


    The tires of the SUV were blown out, the ss was covered in bullet holes, and the cracks in the window were bing more obvious.


    Suddenly, the window shattered, and Keh immediately protected Ophelia. He quickly opened the car door and got out, fighting hand-to-hand with the mercenaries.


    Ray''s bullets were getting low, and the car was filled with empty shell casings. Holding the machine gun in one hand, he pulled Eric out of the car, using it as cover while continuing to attack towards the river. Meanwhile, Mnie and DarkHawk finished their task at the back and hurried over in their car.


    Ophelia skillfully grabbed a gun from a mercenary, saving a severely wounded officer and helping him to the back of the


    car.


    Keh, agile as ever, teamed up with the injured officers to quickly take down several opponents.


    Mnie''s long-range shooting was very precise. Just as Ophelia was struggling against the mercenary in front of her, Mnie took him down with a single shot.


    Their eyes met briefly in the air, and Ophelia nodded slightly before moving on to attack the next target.


    DarkHawk watched Keh and Ophelia fighting the mercenaries together from the car. Their teamwork was seamless. The seemingly fragile girl turned out to be deadly with every move, as skilled as any guild member. After all, someone under Keh''s wing could never be mediocre, This inevitably reminded him of Sherry. Even though his right leg wasn''t in the best shape, he got out of the car to fight alongside his old guild members. Back in the day, he was also a core member of the guild.


    As Fabio''s cargo was loaded onto the ship and it set sail, Ophelia turned to exchange a look with Keh.


    Keh knew what she was thinking, and a frown creased his brow. In the midst of distraction, a mercenary aimed his gun at Keh from behind.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "Keh, watch out!"


    "Keh!" Seeing this, Ophelia immediately sprinted over and leaped into Keh''s arms.


    Gunfire erupted from all around.


    09:55 Mon,


    Everyone turned to see DarkHawk and the mercenary fall to the ground together.


    Keh''s eyebrows knitted together, a strange emotion flickered in his eyes.


    DarkHawky on the ground with several gunshot wounds, looking at the sky as blood oozed from his mouth and his prosthetic leg shifted awkwardly. He turned his head to look at Keh, a calm smile on his lips. He could finally reunite with the Sherry. He missed her deeply. He didn''t even get the chance to speak before he closed his


    eyes.


    Keh''s jaw twitched slightly, his eyes were menacing, and his face was devoid of any extra emotions as he instructed his men to take away the body.


    He lowered his gaze to Ophelia, who was somehow determined to protect him from the bullets. He was angry that she would risk her life for him. Wearing a bulletproof vest didn''t mean she wouldn''t get hurt.


    Ophelia nced at DarkHawk, not expecting things to turn out this way. He truly didn''t have to do what he did, but there was no time to dwell on regrets. Fabio''s ship had already set sail.


    She quickly ran up the hill, with Keh right behind her. Together, they jumped onto the ship.


    Ophelia grabbed a mercenary''s gun barrel, elbowed him in the chest, and as his grip loosened, she swiftly seized the gun, loaded it, and finished him with one shot.


    Keh also grabbed a gun, and together they easily took down the four remaining mercenaries on the ship.


    Seeing this, Fabio had no choice but toe out and negotiate, or he wouldn''t make it out today. Behind him, a bald man raised a gun, aiming it at the two.


    "Hey, that''s rude. Put the gun down," Fabio said, smiling, "May I have your names? I love making new friends," He spoke slowly, his eyes sizing up the man and woman before him. He couldn''t believe that there were such people in Heloria. "You like making friends, huh? Well, how about making some in jail? Oh, wait. With the amount you''ve got this time, you''d probably get the death sentence," Ophelia dered, pointing her gun at him. This time, he couldn''t get away. Otherwise, it would take another two years to catch him, and who knew how many police officers might have to sacrifice themselves by then.


    "You remind me of my daughter, She''s about your age."


    "Having a father like you, I truly feel sorry for your daughter," Ophelia said coldly, a faint sneer on her lips.


    "Youngdy, you''re still inexperienced. There''s a lot you don''t understand. Not everyone is on this road willingly. Once you step onto it, there''s no turning back. Everyone wants to be a good person."


    Hearing these words, Ophelia found it ridiculous. The words "good person"ing from a major drug dealer''s mouth was pure sarcasm.


    "Don''t act all innocent. Nobody forced you to start smuggling drugs," Ophelia knew he was just stalling for time. Likewise, she was waiting for the police to arrive.


    "You''ve said a bunch, but it''s really just to take the goods and money. If you genuinely want to save yourself, you can jump into the river right now.


    "So take a good look at your greedy face and still want to act like the good person? You''re not worthy of that in this life." For the first time, Fabio was taught a lesson by a young girl. He held back his temper. "Okay, name your price." Keh, standing on the side, snorted. That was a line he usually said to others.


    Fabio nced at Keh, Hunking him looked somewhat famr but left no strong impression.


    Just then, a fleet of helicopters swiftly flew over from a distance, Police lights shed outside the dense forest.


    Ophelia exchanged a look with Keh. In perfect sync, they moved forward from left and right to pin down the target.


    The bald man fired wildly twice, only to be kicked onto the deck by Keh, who then shot him in the leg. The man shouted in pain.


    Ophelia mped Fabio''s arms, pinning him against the railing. Turn the ship around."


    "Okay," Keh shot the bald man''s hand again, making sure he was no threat to Ophelia before turning and walking into the cabin.


    The ship slowly began to turn around. Fabio started to panic, struggling with all his strength. "My wife is dead. I can''t let my daughter be without a father."


    "Hmph. You realize your daughter could lose her father? What about those officers who died because of drugs? Their parents- lost sons. Wives lost husbands. And children lost fathers! All because of you drug dealers." Ophelia held him tightly, not loosening her grip at all. "You know how many officers'' lives are in your hands. If we don''t catch you, justice cannot be served."


    As soon as she finished speaking, the ship suddenly shook violently.

 Jilted Bride 310

    A speedboat came rushing towards the hull quickly..


    A gleam of triumph shed in Fabio''s eyes. His backup had arrived. Taking advantage of Ophelia''s unsteady position, he quickly got free. Pulling a gun from his waist, he turned and fired at Ophelia.


    Ophelia''s body fell heavily backward, and the moment she hit the ground, she felt as if a hammer had smashed into her chest, her organs and bones knocked out of ce.


    The pain made her gasp for air, but before she could react, Fabio aimed his gun at her again. She quickly felt the beneath her, raised it, and fired at Fabio''s arm holding the gun.


    gun


    Two gunshots rang out at the same time, and Ophelia''s pupils contracted rapidly. Suddenly, a shadow loomed over her.


    "Ah!" Fabio''s arm was hit, and the gun slipped from his hand, falling to the ground.


    At the same time, a swarm of armed SWAT teams arrived. Helicopters buzzed above, circling over them.


    Yet in Ophelia''s world, all sound seemed to disappear. She struggled to her feet and rushed forward, seeing that Keh had been shot in the waist. "Keh-"


    Ophelia called his name with a trembling voice, feeling as if her throat were filled with acid, the burning sensation spreading to her stomach.


    Keh''s face was pale. He covered the wound with one hand while holding Ophelia and watched as the SWAT officers pinned down Fabio, who was trying to escape over the fence. "Don''t be afraid. I''m fine." Even in this situation, he didn''t forget tofort her.


    Ophelia, her eyes red, looked at the spot where he was shot. Blood was continuously flowing out, seeping through his slender fingers and staining his white shirt. She felt as if her throat was blocked, andrge tears fell from her eyes.


    "Why are you crying?" Keh held her face with one hand, gently wiping away her tears with his thumb. Even though he tried hard to keep his voice steady, his breathing was still a bit uneven.


    "Don''t cry," He couldn''t bear to see her cry. If this bullet had hit her, he wouldn''t have wanted to live.


    The more he said that, the more Ophelia couldn''t hold back her tears. She bit her lip hard to endure, until the taste of blood filled her mouth.


    The officers who arrived saw Keh was injured and immediately informed the medical team on shore to report the situation.


    The ship slowly docked. Ophelia didn''t dare dy for a second and quickly helped Keh off the ship.


    The guild members saw Keh was injured and rushed forward, saying, "Mr. Sinir, Mrs. Sinir."


    Even though Keh looked pale, he kept his back straight, exuding amanding presence that demanded respect. Nearly all the guild members he brought were unharmed. He nced at the spot where DarkHawkhad fallen and calmly gave orders. "Arrange the funeral ording to guild standards and bury him with Sherry. Ray will be in charge of the team here. Train anyone interested in joining the guild. If they don''t want to join, send them away."


    After he finished speaking, he closed his eyes for a moment, taking a few deep breaths. He looked at Ophelia, whose face didn''t look much better either. "Let''s head to the hospital first."


    09:55 Mon,


    Medical facilities in Jenton were quite limited, so they took some time to drive over to the city''s central hospital.


    Fortunately, Keh''s injury wasn''t life-threatening. On the way Ronin had already treated his wound with basic care, temporarily stopping the bleeding and giving him a couple of painkillers.


    Also with them were the bordermand officers responsible for the arrest and a few special police officers.


    After all, the sessful capture this time was thanks to Keh and his team''s assistance. Without their help, even the involved police officers could have been lost. That was why the police had to provide an escort. The hospital had already been contacted, and Ophelia stayed by his side as they entered the emergency room.


    Kehy on the bed, his white shirt unbuttoned, showing off his well-defined chest. On his left chest were two letter tattoos of different depths, and below them, at his waist, was a bleeding wound, messy and gruesome. A nurse was cleaning around the wound with medical cotton.


    Keh struggled to keep his heavy eyelids open as he nced at the girl leaning against the wall. Even though his lips were pale and his body was covered in sweat, he still managed a smile, letting her know there was nothing to worry about. "They''re about to start the surgery to remove the bullet. Are you sure you want to stay here?" Ronin nced sideways at Ophelia, reminding her. He wasn''t sure whether she could handle watching it.


    Ophelia clenched her hands tightly and said nothing.


    Ronin turned his focus back to the surgery. Removing the bullet was quite easy. He opened the flesh and used tweezers to take it out. In a moment, blood flowed from the wound, and Ronin quickly pressed it with a bandage. The next step was stitching the wound.


    As Ophelia watched, tears rolled down her face.


    Finally, after the bullet was removed and the wound was stitched up, Keh was moved to a private room. The painkillers and anesthesia made his eyelids heavy.


    "Get some sleep," Ophelia suggested as she gently removed his sses. She sped his hands in hers.


    The blurry vision made him irritable. He shut his eyes and turned his hand to hold hers tightly.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Late at night, Ophelia stayed by his bedside. Even when there was a knock on the door, she didn''t turn her head.


    "Don''t worry, Keh''s injuries aren''t serious. It''s you who should take a break," Ronin said with a frown as he looked at Ophelia''s frail form, feeling an odd sensation inside. "You should get a check-up as well."


    She didn''t need one. Keh always looked after her. The bulletproof vest was on her, so she was uninjured. "I''m fine," she said, looking at Keh, her voice barely a whisper, "Now that he''s hurt, will the surgery be dyed?" "Yes, it seems so."


    A pang of tightness gripped Ophelia''s heart, and a sourness tingled in her nose. It was all her fault.


    "Don''t me yourself. Actually, it''s kind of a good thing. We''ll have more time to prepare, and the surgery risks will be


    lower."


    Ophelia nodded and stayed silent, her gaze fixed on the man sleeping on the bed. Even in his sleep, he didn''t loosen his grip on her hand. Chapter 310


    The next day, the TV news reported on the previous day''s arrest operation. The biggest drug dealer, Fabio of the Delta region, was captured.


    Four hundred kilograms of drugs were seized, and thanks to information from undercover officers, several drug-trafficking and manufacturing locations were urately targeted, involving as many as five hundred people. Eight officers were seriously injured, twelve were lightly injured, but none lost their lives.


    "Mrs. Sinir, I''ve brought you a set of clothes. You should change and take a rest for a bit," Mnie said, handing over the clothes.


    "Just leave it there," Ophelia said hoarsely, he


    to wake up and find that she wasn''t there.


    eyes bloodshot with fatigue. Keh was still asleep, and she didn''t want him


    At that moment, two SWAT officers entered the room.


    Victor followed them in.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Jilted Bride 311

    The summer sun had just risen, with its light streaming through the curtains into the room.


    Ophelia turned her head and saw a towering figure standing behind the two officers.


    His presence made the room feel much more cramped, and his strong aura was identical to Keh''s. As the man entered,


    eyes, and his authoritative face revealed no he nced at the person on the bed. There was no trace of emotion in his expression.


    He shifted his gaze, locking eyes with Ophelia. "Thanks to your Help, the capture operation went smoothly. I''ve already reported it to the president. Once you''re back in Denex, he will meet you personally." Victor''s tone was businesslike and very formal.


    Ophelia was unhappy that he didn''t care about Keh''s safety. She turned her eyes away and didn''t respond.


    Her indifference made the special force officers and themander at the doorway feel a bit awkward, considering she was now facing the highest-ranking leader in the military district. "Youngdy, let me introduce you to-


    in


    "No need for introductions. Keh needs to rest. Please leave," Ophelia''s voice


    was calm but carried a hint of coldness.


    It seemed the outside world Keh.


    unaware of the father-son rtionship between the leader of the military district and


    The officer nced carefully at Victor, wanting to help exin, when Victor chuckled. "No worries, you two take your time


    you any longer." to recover. I won''t bother


    As he finished speaking, the ma


    on the bed slowly opened his eyes, gripping Ophelia''s hand more tightly.


    "You''re awake," Ophelia said, holding his hand back. Seeing his brows furrowed and his gaze unfocused, she quickly got up and helped him put on the sses from the bedside, knowing he disliked the blurry feeling.


    Upon seeing Victor, Keh''s deep-set eyes behind his sses seemed to have ayer of ice over them, his face as pale as paper, cold and forbidding.


    Victor paused his steps, turned his head slightly, and met Keh''s gaze. Noticing the sses, he was a bit surprised and stood there for quite some time., The officer behind him didn''t dare speak.


    After a long pause, he finally said, "Take care of your injuries and try to stay calm. I understand with your personality you wouldn''t normally help, but still thank you." "Get out."


    Victor let out a self-deprecatingugh, a trace of helplessness on his lips, as he nced at Ophelia beside him. The two really did have simr personalities.


    He didn''t say another word, turned around, and left the hospital room. In the hallway, he bumped into Ronin.


    "Hello, Victor, Ronin greeted politely. After all, their families had been close for generations, living in the same city. When he was home, he often saw Victor visiting his father. "Ronin, how''s Keh''s condition?" Victor asked, still worried.


    "Don''t worry. The bullet didn''t hit


    any


    vital organs.


    With some rest, he''ll be fine."


    "That''s not I''m talking about Victor replied.


    Ronin knew what he meant, letting out an awkward chuckle and pressing his lips together. His smile was polite, but he wasn''t going to say anything more.


    Victor let out a quiet sigh, gave him a couple of reassuring pats on the shoulder, and walked away.


    In the hospital room, Ophelia poured a ss of water and held it to his lips. "Sip it slowly, just a little at a time.


    After giving him some water, she ced another pillow behind Keh''s head. "The anesthetic and painkillers should''ve worn off by now. Is the wound very painful?"


    Keh didn''t answer her question. Instead, he kept staring at her intently. "Did you stay up all night?"


    Ophelia had dark circles under her eyes. Even the warm sunlight on her face couldn''t hide her tired look.


    "Think you''re made of steel, huh?" Keh frowned, thest syble escaping from his nose, his concern evident as he squeezed her small hand tightly, as if in punishment.


    Neither of them should criticize the other. When she was injured a few days ago, he also stayed up non-stop to take care of her. She only stayed up for one night. If it hadn''t been for her, he wouldn''t have gotten so badly hurt. Mnie put down the clothes and left the hospital room, guarding the floor with Bighost, ensuring no one disturbed them. "It''s still early. Come here," Keh shifted to the side, making space.


    "Don''t move," Ophelia immediately pulled back the nket upon noticing his big motion, only to see blood staining the white bandages wrapped around his waist.


    "Keh," She frowned at him, her clear, doe-like eyes fierce, as if she might bite.


    Keh chuckled softly,pletely disregarding the injury as if the wound wasn''t even there. "Come here," He reached out to her. "Aren''t you worried if this wound has affected other areas?


    "The wound cut into your intestines, but Dr. West stitched it up for you," Ophelia replied, still irritated by his earlier behavior. She thought Keh should be more careful.


    She grumbled, letting her gaze fall downward and suddenly noticed something. Her eyebrows raised as she understood his earlier implication. "Your kid-kidney is fine. But you need to avoid any intense activities for a while." For some reason, her cheeks felt warm when she said this.


    Seeing her shy expression, Keh chuckled mischievously. "Alright. So, could you please cover me with the nket?"


    Ophelia quickly looked away and promptly pulled the nket up. She nced down at her own dirty clothes and said, "I''m


    up and change. You should lie down and get some more rest." going to clean


    "Okay," Keh replied, lying back with the eagerness of a child waiting for a treat.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Ophelia sighed helplessly and leaned down to give him a quick kiss on the lips. Just as she was about to get up, he sped her head.


    Despite the metallic taste of yesterday''s blood in her mouth, he didn''t care and pried her mouth open. He didn''t stop kissing her until she was out of breath, and it seemed to aggravate his wound since he drew in a sharp breath. "Did I touch your wound? Does it hurt?"


    Dec


    Seeing the worry in her eyes, Keh raised an eyebrow, knowing the wound wasn''t what hurt.


    95%


    Ophelia figured it out from his expression and, feeling embarrassed and angry, she bit down on his lip. "I''m going to change. my clothes." She straightened up, holding the clothes Mnie had prepared for her, and went to the room next door. After quickly freshening up and changing into clean clothes, she left the hospital room and saw Victor at the end of the hallway. He was still there.


    Victor turned around and when he saw her, his usually stern lips curved into a fairly gentle smile. "Ms. Spencer, would it be convenient for you to have a private conversation with me? It''s about Keh."


    Ophelia looked the person in front of her up and down for a moment before following him downstairs.


    COMMENT

 Jilted Bride 312

    Chapter 312 95%


    Ophelia and Victor sat down in a caf¨¦ across from the hospital, with inclothes officers standing about a dozen meters away. It was still before seven, and the ce was nearly empty.


    Victor wasn''t confident in ordering coffee, so he slid the menu card over to Ophelia.


    She casually ordered two drinks.


    Once the coffee arrived, Victor finally spoke slowly, "I know that it hadn''t been for you, with Keh''s personality, he wouldn''t have agreed to help. Thank you again."


    Ophelia took a sip of her coffee, her eyes lowering to focus on a spot on the table in silence. She didn''t want this kind of gratitude at all.


    She didn''t regret helping to catch the drug dealers or saving those officers. She shouldn''t have allowed the person she loved most to be put in danger. It was only when she saw Keh being shot that she realized how close death was to her. She was human, and she could feel fear too. She finally understood why he always got so upset whenever she rushed forward to confront him.


    So now, all she wanted was for Keh to be okay, and for her to be okay too. She decided she wouldn''t do anything so reckless again.


    Seeing her silence, Victor continued, "You should be aware of Keh''s health issues, right?"


    Ophelia looked up. It seemed he knew about it too.


    "I hope you''ll consider Keh''s situation and let him return to Ivy. She''s from a family experienced in pharmacology and knows how to manage the toxin in his body. If you truly love Keh-" Before he could speak, Ophelia let out a softugh. Her lovely eyes met Victor''s deep gaze. Her fingers stopped their gentle touch on the coffee cup. In that moment, everything became clear to her. "You knew about the toxin in Keh from the start, didn''t you? Is that why you left him with Ivy for so many years without getting involved?"


    She was smart. A touch of admiration appeared in Victor''s eyes. In the past, his father, Ronan, had promised him that he could marry Grace as soon as he achieved the top position in the military district. But unexpectedly, fate did not go as nned, and Grace had an ident. By the time he heard the news and hurried back, Keh had already been taken away by Ivy.


    He went to Mgia to find Ivy and found out that Grace took the poison herself back then to save all of Denex. Because of this, Keh was also poisoned. He had no choice but to leave Keh with Ivy. After hearing what Victor said, the smile on Ophelia''s face slowly turned bitter, and her eyes turned cold. "So, do you really care about him?"


    "What?" Victor didn''t understand what she meant.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Who considered his feelings? You think leaving Keh with Ivy was the best decision? Do you feel you''re so noble for doing that? Did you ever ask if he wanted that?


    "He was just nine, having lost his mother, and you, his father, left him. Where were you when he was humiliated, kneeling all night in the snow? Where were you when he wandered alone into the slums?" As Ophelia spoke, her eyes began to tear up. It felt like her heart was squeezed tightly. She thought of the boy walking alone


    895%


    in the snow, silently picking up bottles behind her. Just thinking about it made her heartache intensely.


    At that time, he was truly homeless and wanted to wander with Her. Deep down, he was so kind, yet with Ivy, he endured things he shouldn''t have, filled with years of hatred and suffering Keh was painful every time he thought of those grudges. Seeing his pained expression broke her heart. Her Kennie shouldn''t be like this.


    Victor sat there for a long time without uttering a word,


    Ophelia stood up and said, "I won''t let Keh go back to Ivy. If she had a way to cure him, she wouldn''t have dyed all these years. Regardless of the future, I''ll face it with Keh," A cast this way, her Kennie was really happy. She wouldn''t do anything to hurt him, and she wouldn''t let anyone else do it either. She didn''t want him to live with hatred.


    Ophelia turned around just in time to hear the man behind her say, "Maybe, once you be parents, you''ll understand."


    Her shoulders shook slightly, and as sheughed, tears started to fall. "If it were me, I''d do everything I could to find a cure, instead of leaving him to someone with ulterior motives. Victor, stop trying to convince yourself. That''s not greatness." After saying this, Ophelia left the caf¨¦ without looking back. She picked up some breakfast from a nearby caf¨¦ and headed back.


    When she got back to the hospital room, Keh was resting with his eyes closed. He hadn''t even taken off his sses, maintaining the same position as when she left, with his hands by his sides, slightly sitting up.


    She quietly ced the breakfast on the table. As she walked to his side, she looked at his shadowed face, tracing it with her


    eyes.


    She leaned closer to him, feeling his breath, kissing from his nose to the corner of his lips, and then finally capturing his lips. She kissed him back and forth until she saw his Adam''s apple move. Ophelia chuckled. "Pretending to be asleep?" She yfully blew on his eyshes, a smile on her lips.


    "I wasn''t, but you woke me up with your kisses," Keh opened his eyes, amusement sparking in his deep, swirling eyes. Ophelia was truly clever. Suddenly, his gaze fixed. "Did you cry?" Keh frowned, reaching up to gently stroke her cheek, staring at her slightly red eyes.


    Even though she''d washed her face andposed herself before entering, he still noticed. "Got soap in my eyes while washing," She quickly made up an excuse, avoiding Keh''s eyes, and gently nestled against his chest. "Kennie, I feel so happy. I want to have a baby with you. Once your surgery is over, let''s have a baby, okay?"


    With her head resting beneath his chin, Keh gently stroked her hair. "Okay," It was the first time he''d agr¨¦ed so quickly. Once he was recovered, they''d leave everything behind and find a ce to live quietly together.


    "Do you prefer a son or a daughter?" Ophelia looked up at him. They''d hardly ever talked about this.


    "As long as it''s our child, even if it''s a monkey, I''d still love it."


    What are you saying?'' Ophelia thought. She frowned as an image suddenly appeared in her mind. They were both good-looking, so they couldn''t possibly have a child who looked like a monkey. She sat up from his arms. "I''m serious." Keh thought for a moment and then replied sincerely, "A boy."


    "Are you preferring boys over girls?" Ophelia looked at him intently.


    Keh chuckled softly. "I need to show you that I didn''t have a lover in my past life."


    45


    "Hmph. If it''s a daughter, let''s see what you''ll say then," Ophelia gave him an eye-roll.


    "If it''s a daughter, she will definitely look like you."


    "Why?"


    "Because in my past life, you were my true love." Ophelia stayed silent.

 Jilted Bride 313

    Keh''s pride was evident, no matter how he tried to conceal it Seeing him like this, she almost forgot he was recovering from an injury. In fact, Keh really didn''t think much of this minor injury. The next day was the DarkHawk''s funeral, and Keh certainly had to attend in person.


    A morning rain had fallen, and now the sky outside was still covered with thick clouds, the air heavy with a gentle drizzle. The funeral was held at the funeral home in Golten. DarkHawk had no family, and those attending the funeral were his subordinates from over the years.


    A group of men in ck suits stood densely on both sides of the main hall, even crowding outside. Apanying them were the chiefmander of the operation and a few special forces officers who were lightly injured during the mission. Large floral wreaths adorned the sides of the spacious hall, and at the center of the gold-patterned coffin hung a ck-and-white photo of DarkHawk. His expression was stern, with sharp eyes and a scar on his left cheek. The guild members stood in two lines in front of the gold-patterned coffin.


    "This photo was taken when DarkHawk first joined the guild, from his profile," Caleb remarked. In the blink of an eye, eight years have passed since then. DarkHawk was young at that time, with bright, clear eyes. Barrett let out a long sigh.


    Ray took out a cigarette from his pocket, lit it, took a puff, and slowly exhaled the smoke while cing the stub under DarkHawk''s picture on the incense burner.


    Today, after DarkHawk''s body was cremated, he would be taken back to the guild and buried beside Sherry.


    "Ray, can I be buried next to you in the future?" Eric tilted his head and asked.


    Ray furrowed his brow deeply. He thought Eric might not know what he was asking. Not all partners got to be buried together. He thought Eric might not know that.


    "Ray, how much money are you nning to make before you retire?"


    Ray was caught off guard by Eric''s sudden questions. After a moment, he replied, "I n to retire when I make a 300 million dors."


    Eric nodded. "That''s doable."


    Ray sighed. This wasn''t the right environment for such a discussion.


    At the entrance, a ck SUV stopped, and Keh stepped out of the car. Despite his face still being slightly pale, his walk and appearance showed no signs of injury. He adjusted the gold-rimmed sses on his nose before pausing briefly. Ophelia got out from the other side of the car and moved to Keh''s side. Both of them were wearing matching ck trench coats, each with a white flower pinned to their chest.


    Mnie and Bighost held the ck umbres for them as they entered the funeral parlor together. Raindrops soaked Keh''s pant legs,


    All of the DarkHawk''s men respectfully cleared a path for them.


    Once everyone had arrived, the funeral director began the service.


    Keh stood in the center, with Ophelia at his side. Each guild member held a stick of incense, bowing three times toward


    the DarkHawk''s coffin. Keh had an injury at his waist, which hurt every time he bowed, yet he didn''t even flinch.


    The incense was ced into the censer. Keh approached the coffin, tidying the attire of DarkHawk, and draped the golden banner symbolizing the guild over the body. "Farewell," he murmured, his voice raspy and breathless. The coffin lid gradually closed as the guild members carried it to the crematorium.


    As the funeral came to an end, Ophelia moved forward to support Keh. He was dressed in a ck trench coat, and the blood from the wound at his waist was not noticeable, as if it was just rainwater. Shortly after, Caleb emerged from the crematorium holding DarkHawk''s urn.


    Seeing this scene, Ophelia felt a mix of indescribable emotions swelling within her.


    "Take it back," Keh instructed, appearing ustomed to such scenes and feeling emotionally unaffected.


    "Yes," Caleb nodded. He and Barrett were to return to Mgia first to bury DarkHawk.


    Keh''s uing surgery was also set to take ce in Mgia, so Ronin was nning to go with them to make the necessary preparations..N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Keh''s injuries required additional hospital observation for a few more days to prevent infection, with a specialized medical team flown in from Denex to care for him.


    After the funeral, once they returned to the hospital room, Ophelia quickly unbuttoned his shirt. The white bandages around Keh''s waist werepletely soaked with blood, presenting a shocking sight.


    "It''s nothing," Keh said softly, looking down at her while gently ruffling her hair.


    Ophelia couldn''t quite understand why she felt so heavy-hearted today. Seeing Keh''s injuries made her heartache even more. Thinking about his uing surgery felt like a heavy stone pressing on her chest, making it hard to breathe. His shirt was open as he sat on the edge of the bed, pulling her into his arms and onto hisp.


    "Hey! Be careful not to touch your wound," She protested, trying to stand up, but his strong arm held her securely around the waist.

 Jilted Bride 314

    Keh appeared refined, yet the muscles he showed hinted atmanding presence.


    Ophelia frowned deeply, watching as more and more blood leaked through the bandage. Just as she was about to speak, her lips were captured by his kiss.


    His kiss had a slight metallic taste of blood and his unique fresh scent. It felt like magic. As he kissed her, she found herself barely able to breathe, her once chaotic mind now entirely nk


    Even the heavy pressure in her chest gradually eased and vanished with the kiss.


    Keh kissed her even more boldly, slowly lowering her straps


    "Keh, you can''t-" Her cheeks turned crimson as she worriedly nced at his wound, but he pinned her beneath him so she couldn''t see anything. He kissed her again, this time softly, as if tofort her.


    After a long while, he whispered against her ear, breathing deeply, "Don''t overthink it. We can write our own fate," Those words struck deeply into her heart.


    She felt like he could read her mind. She couldn''t hide her feelings from him; he saw right through her. He knew that because of DarkHawk''s funeral, her thoughts would be troubled and she would be burdened with pressures she couldn''t handle. "Yeah, I understand," Ophelia said, her voice slightly breathless, hands pressed against his solid chest, eyes fixated on the letter tattoo near his heart on the left. They had to give it a try. Overthinking didn''t help.


    Keh got up, put on his ck shirt, and fastened a button. "Go call the doctor to change the bandage," He was intentionally keeping it from her.


    "It''s really nothing," Keh reassured, nning to pat her head when he noticed a smear of blood on his fingertip.


    "Keh, are you trying to act tough in front of me? You can tell me if you''re in pain," She could admit it to him, so he could too.


    His face was already so pale, and the wound had bled so much, yet he still tried to calm her by saying he was fine. For a moment, she couldn''t quite understand how she felt inside.


    She wasn''t just a child who only knew how to live under his protection.


    Seeing a hint of defeat in her eyes, Keh stepped forward and hugged her. Half of his weight leaned on her. "Don''t be mad. I''m not pretending to be tough. It''s just a little injury. It really doesn''t hurt." "Ouch," Keh groaned, drawing in a sharp breath as he straightened up, his eyebrows furrowing slightly.


    Ophelia frowned, looking at him with a hint of reproach. "Lie down quickly. I''ll go get the doctor."


    Keh was gently tended to by Ophelia, a soft smile yed at the corner of his lips. As long as she wasn''t angry, that was good.


    The doctor entered the room, checking the wound under Keh''s intense gaze. The doctor looked even more troubled than Keh, ayer of sweat forming on his forehead,


    "Everything''s fine. Mr. Sinir is recovering well. Fortunately, there''s no infection. His wound is healing, so try not to strain it. We don''t want it bleeding again," He wiped the sweat from his forehead and swallowed nervously. Keh nced at Ophelia, his expression saying, "See, I told you it was nothing to worry about," After the doctor left, Keh reached out to pull her over to the side of the bed. "Stay with me, "He wanted her to lie down with him.


    5


    70


    With no other option, Ophelia tiptoed onto the bed, being cautius not to touch his wound, andy down beside him. carefully.


    Keh was about to put his arm around her, but she quickly stopped him. "Don''t move, just stay like this."


    "There''s nothing wrong with my arm," His tone sounded slightly pitiful.


    "Haven''t you heard the saying ''a chain is only as strong as its weakest link''? Behave, or I''ll go back to my own hospital room to rest," Keh frowned. "It hurts."


    Hearing that, Ophelia immediately sat up straight, on high alert. Do you want me to get the doctor to give you a painkiller shot?" "Yeah."Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Just as she was about to get off the bed, he grabbed her arm and pulled her back onto the bed. "But the doctor''s painkillers won''t work."


    Before Ophelia could react, he ced hisrge hand on her head and pulled her in for a kiss. "This works."


    Ophelia thought, ''Aren''t you going to stop?''


    After the kiss, Keh shifted slightly and smugly nestled his head next to her neck. Ophelia sighed, gently stroking his chiseled jawline and lowering her head to rest against his cheek. Outside, the rain had cleared and the hot sun streamed through the windows, giving everyone a warm,forting glow.


    ***


    In the afternoon, Ophelia sat on the edge of the bed with herptop, starting to manage tasks for bothpanies. She had originally nned to be away for just a few days, but now it seemed like she might need a few more. Most of Sinir Group''s work was handled by Mark, but many decisions still needed Keh''s approval. Keh entrusted her with these important decisions.


    She realized that withrge conglomerates, even a small issue could trigger extensive consequences. Only now did she understand why Keh pretended to be injured to avoid attention when he first took over Sinir Group.


    Many families seemed peaceful on the surface, but if their interests were challenged, conflict would arise immediately. There were many files on herputer. Some needed key points highlighted for Mark to address, while other projects needed to be temporarily postponed. Most of the demands from the shareholders were directly rejected.


    It felt like going through official papers. She had been busy for quite a while. Suddenly, Ophelia''s phone lit up with a message from Cody.


    [Boss, I''ve heard the Gloomhaven Stadium project bid we''ve been tracking is going to be dyed. It won''t start until after the November elections end.]


    That meant it would be postponed until next year. Ophelia furrowed her brows slightly. They had been preparing for this project for a while, If they could secure all three projects, she could talk to the government about developing the slums.


    She had to settle everyone in the slums before winter arrived. If the project was dyed, her ns would be postponed too. Her expression became serious, and she typed a response, [I understand, let''s focus on the other two projects first.] A weekter, Keh''s injuries were almost healed.


    In fact, Keh had nned to leave the hospital two days ago, but Ophelia insisted on observing him for a couple more days.


    Now with the doctor''s approval and the assurance that there was no risk of infection, he was finally discharged.


    Ophelia was packing up when she heard two knocks on the door "Mr. West, Mr. West is here."


    Ophelia paused at the mention.


    "Let him in," As Keh''s voice faded, the door to the hospital room opened and a man in a pair of ck leather shoes walked in confidently.


    ck dress pants fitted his long legs, and beneath a dark brown trench coat was a simple ck crew-neck t-shirt. His sharply defined face looked as serious as ice. "Keh."

 Jilted Bride 315

    The man''s voice was mature, with an indescribable old-school vibe. His dark eyes focused on Keh, giving him an once- over. "Are your wounds all healed?"


    "Yeah," Keh replied. Looking into the man''s deep, bottomless eyes, he realized the old Noah was back. He hadn''t been with this version of Noah for so long that he''d almost forgotten what he was usually like. Ophelia also nced at Noah. Though both men were simr in height and exuded authority, they werepletely different types.


    Keh had a highborn aloofness, giving off the impression that he looked down on the world, while Noah had an overly mature and aged aura. She felt like this version of Noah was somewhat unfamiliar. Noah''s eyes shifted to Ophelia. "Hello, Keh''s beloved friend, The way he greeted and named her was simr to when they first met, but his eyes now showed a cold detachment, losing the previous warmth. Ophelia gave a slight nod and handed the packed things to Mnie and Bighost at the door. She turned around, observing the newly changed Noah She wondered if he had really forgotten everything from the past few months. Noah''s face was even nker than Keh''s. There was nothing to be inferred from it.


    "I''m here to take you to Waston."


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow as she recalled what Victor mentioned earlier when he visited. Because of their helping the special police capture the drug dealers, the president wanted to personally meet them to express gratitude.


    Keh nced at Ophelia, his eyes asking for her opinion.


    Noah also turned his head to look at her.


    The two men were both looking at her, as if waiting for her decision.


    Being asked for a personal meeting by the president wasn''t something an ordinary citizen could refuse. She nodded slightly. Leaving the hospital, Mnie and Bighost took the other guild members back to Mgia, while Ray and Eric went with them to Waston. Waston was some distance away from Jenton, and flying would be more convenient.


    At the airport, a private jet was already prepared. The journey to Waston was quiet, with no noise in the cabin.


    Ophelia nced past Keh, looking at the seat beside her. Since boarding the ne, Noah had been silent, engrossed in his magazine the entire time.


    This reminded her of when they flew back to Denex from Mgia, with Noah being noisy the entire time, trying all the airne meals and watching loud movies behind them. Before getting off the ne, he even packed up two airline meals to take away.


    Thinking about how Noah was before, and seeing him now, she found that this was what Noah was like before losing his memory. If it weren''t for his presence, he was so quiet it was as if he didn''t exist.


    Keh turned his head and gently moved the head of Ophelia to face him, with a frown on his brow. "What are you looking at?" His voice was husky as he adjusted his sses on the bridge of his nose, examining her.


    After saying that, Noah closed his magazine and looked over toward the voice. For a moment, both powerful men on the ne had their eyes on her at the same time.


    Ophelia was speechless. "Nothing. I wasn''t looking at anything," She blinked twice quickly, her eyebrows curving as she smiled at Keh.


    Tue, Dec


    293%


    93%0


    Noah silently looked away and nced at his watch to check theme. With two hours left, he crossed his arms, closed his eyes, and leaned back in his seat, nning to nap. "Why do you keep watching him?" Keh''s tone had a hint of displeasure as he quickly removed hisrge hand from her


    head.


    Sensing his change in mood next to her, Ophelia immediately turned all her attention to him. "No, I''m just curious, that''s all," She was really curious that why a person would have such different personalities. She quietly asked into Keh''s shoulder, "Keh, what if you forget about me someday?"


    Keh lowered his gaze, his deep eyes intently fixed on her pure, innocent eyes. "Never." Ophelia was surprised that Keh was so sure about it. She asked, "What if?"


    Keh lifted her chin. "Then I''ll fall in lo"


    her lips.


    with you all over again," With that, he lowered his eyes and pressed a kiss on


    Noah adjusted his sitting position. He opened his eyes for a quick nce, and his usually expressionless face showed a sudden crease on his forehead. There was a feeling that couldn''t be exined. The nended in Waston, and the meeting was set for the next morning. Ophelia and Keh stayed the night here.


    The next morning, a grand convoy awaited downstairs. Noah personally came to pick them up, and the car went straight to the Presidential Residence.


    An hourter, the convoy stopped in front of a garden that offered great privacy.


    The Presidential Residence''s exterior was grand and impressive, featuring Heloria-style architecture. Upon entering, security checks were required, and Caleb and Eric stopped at the entrance.


    The butler greeted them respectfully at the door. Ophelia had seen this butler before at the Heloria Trade Summit, and he nodded to her slightly when he saw her.


    "Mr. Sinir, Ms. Spencer, the president is currently busy with the head of the military district. You can take a tour first. This way, please."


    "The head of the military district is also here?" Noah asked.


    The butler nodded.


    "Sorry, I didn''t know," Noah apologized to Keh. He was aware that Keh and Victor never got along.


    "It''s fine," Keh replied, his eyes showing no other emotion. Noah was surprised by this response. He didn''t know Keh had be so easygoing.


    As soon as they entered, they saw an artificial waterfall. The hallway inside the house was decorated with several calligraphy paintings. On the way towards the main hall, there were small indoor fountains on either side.


    The main hall was specifically used for hosting foreign guests. People often saw the backdrop for these meetings in the news, with gs and photos of friendly nations'' leaders on the wall.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Next to it was arge conference room where many important decisions had been made. The butler led the three to the backyard, which featured ake with open grassy fields on both sides.


    There were two modern-style gazebos, one in the middle of theke and another on the shore, surrounded by a circle of weeping cedars that remained green all year round. Summer was when they were at their fullest. Sitting in the gazebo and enjoying the cool breeze over theke with a cup of coffee in this season was quite rxing.


    Tue,


    The butler arranged for some coffee and snacks, saying, "Why not take a break here? The president should be done soon.


    Keh thought it was perfect. He didn''t want to run into Victorter.


    "You go ahead and take care of your business," Noah instructed.


    The butler nodded and quietly stepped aside.


    However, security at the mansion was tight, with a guard stationell every few meters.


    Ophelia nced at the beautifully arranged coffee treats, and Keh had already ced them in front of her. She didn''t hesitate and picked up a piece, popping it into her mouth.


    "Are you getting used to it?" Keh asked Noah. After all, a lot had changed in the past five years. Noah said he couldn''t remember what happened during that time, so he might need some time to adjust. "I''m fine," Noah replied briefly, taking a sip of his coffee. "After meeting the president, I''ll join you for a trip to Denex."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Jilted Bride 316

    "Back when you went to Denex, who were you looking for?" Keh leaned back in his chair, ncing at Noah.


    Now that his memory had returned, he needed to go back again. It seemed that the person he was looking for was quite important back then.


    Noah put his coffee cup on the table, not bothering to hide anything. "I was looking for my sister."


    "Your sister?" Keh was surprised.


    Ophelia''s expression was identical to his. It was previously said that the youngest daughter of the West ''family had been kidnapped and killed at two. Both of them immediately turned to Noah..


    "I think my sister is probably still alive," But after all, it''d been five years, and he wasn''t sure now. Before the ne crash, he had heard the news, but he still didn''t know if he had found her. He needed to confirm this as soon as he could. The butler took two steps forward. "The president has arrived."


    The three of them stood up and looked back to see a middle-aged man with white hair, wearing a dark gray suit, confidently walking towards them. A white shirt was worn with a dark green tie, the metal tie clip shining in the sunlight. "I''m really sorry for keeping you waiting," Xander said with a friendly smile. Compared to Victor, he seemed much more approachable.


    This was the second time Ophelia had seen Xander, and he always gave her aforting sense of peace and stability.


    But thinking about how he had given up his own daughter for the leadership position was hard for her to ept, making her gaze noticeably colder.


    "Keh, is your injury getting better?" Xander gave Keh an once-over, with genuine concern in his eyes.


    "The injury isn''t an issue anymore. Mr. West, you have a lot to handle, so don''t worry about me," Keh replied calmly and distantly.


    Xander understood his nature, and getting a reply was already fortunate, so he didn''t mind Keh''s attitude. "That''s good He nodded, turning his gaze to Ophelia. "You weren''t hurt, were you? I heard this time it was thanks to you." When he spoke to her, Xander''s tone noticeably softened, and his gaze was like he was looking at a child.


    Ophelia met his gaze and nodded slightly. "Thank you for your concern, sir. I wasn''t hurt."


    "Why so formal? I was worried about you. That''s why I asked Noah to pick you up. I heard someone sacrificed themselves during the mission. The country will award them the highest honor."


    "No need," DarkHawk didn''t have any family, so such honors didn''t mean much to him. Besides, DarkHawk was part of the guild.


    Seeing Keh''s firm response, Xander didn''t push any further. "It''s windy here. Let''s go inside and talk."


    The President''s office on the second floor was an oval area. Behind the brown office desk were three gs, and one wall was designed as a recessed bookshelf filled with books from different countries.


    Directly opposite the bookshelf were two rows of long sofas facing each other, with cups of coffee on the coffee table. Keh sat on one side with Ophelia, while Noah sat across from them.


    10:20 Wed, Dec 11 G.


    Xander sat on a single sofa-"Sessfully capturing the drug lord Fabio this time isrgely thanks to you two," His gazended on Ophelia.


    He had met her once before at the Heloria Trade Summit. Back then, he didn''t pay much attention, not realizing this girl who looked to be in her early twenties was so brave.


    "You saved all the officers during this operation. Not only did you prevent a national loss, but you also saved countless families. For that, on behalf of all the people in Heloria, I thank you," Xander''s gratitude was genuine, and his tone was very sincere.


    "Sir, don''t thank me just yet. I''m not exactly a good Samaritan," Keh''s voice was deep and cold. "I''m a businessman, and I never make a bad deal. Business is business. Surely you understand that, right?"


    The smile on Xander''s face froze for a moment, but it was a fleeting second as he knew Keh well. "I understand. That''s why I invited you here today. Whatever your terms, feel free to say them. If I can make it happen, I will." Keh let out a soft chuckle that blended with his raspy voice, You certainly can," He looked at Xander with an expression suggesting he was about to make a steep demand, giving off a bad feeling.


    The entire office was so quiet you could hear a pin drop, and even Noah, sitting across from him, was curious about what he was going to ask for.


    Keh held Ophelia''s hand, leaning back on the couch. "I want the development rights to the Denex slums."


    Upon hearing those words, Ophelia flinched slightly and turned to look at Keh. He was doing this for her. Her palm tightened, and an indescribable feeling spread through her heart. He was helping her with her dream.


    From initially opposing her to supporting her and now directly using his influence to negotiate with the chief, every step he took paved the way for her. She turned her gaze to Xander.


    Xander couldn''t help but frown, pursing his lips. He knew Keh wasn''t up to any good, but he didn''t expect it to be about


    time. this matter. The slums of Denex hadn''t been mentioned for a long


    He picked up the coffee cup from the table and took a sip. The coffee had gone cold, leaving a slight bitterness as it slid down his throat.


    "Keh, you''re a Sinir. You should know the kind of history Heloria has hidden there. Every country has a past that is kept under wraps. Developing that area would be like exposing an embarrassing history. You''re a businessman. This won''t benefit you at all."


    Xander sighed and looked at Ophelia, unsure if she was aware of that piece of history. There was a lot he couldn''t easily


    express.


    "You should be well aware of the role the Sinir family yed in the disaster resulting from the tycoon feud back then," There was a hint of threat in those words.


    "Hmph," Keh gave a coldugh, his eyes beneath the sses filled with overwhelming arrogance. "What does what the Sinir family did back then have to do with me? I wasn''t in charge."


    Xander was taken aback by his response. It seemed like this wasn''t a discussion to seek his opinion. He knew Keh was determined to do it.


    "Keh, for the sake of all of Heloria, I can''t agree to this. Suppressing the events of the past was difficult. The Wright family faced sanctions, and many issues have been settled. There''s no need to bring them up again." Seeing Keh remain unmoved, Xander could only hold his forehead in frustration.


    "Denex has the highest GDP in the entire country. With the power of media and public opinion so strong, revisiting the past could impact all of Heloria. What if it triggers economic instability?" But that wasn''t even the biggest issue. 10:20 Wed, Dec 11


    "How many people knew about what happened back then, and how many really know the actual death toll from that disaster? If we stir things up, the entire city of Denex might fall into panic. Who will take responsibility for that?"Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    0

 Jilted Bride 317

    Xander became more excited as he spoke, jumping right up from the single sofa. As a resident of Denez, he had a clear understanding of the events from those days. His mother was a victim of that disaster. The toxic gas explosion at the Wright family''s factory was due to deliberate sabotage during the fiercepetition among the four major families. The official death toll reported from Denex was 31,900.


    But the real number of deaths had already exceeded 100,000, and that was just based on hospital records. Gloomhaven was hit the hardest at that time.


    It was densely popted, crowded with people, and close to the port, making it the easiest ce for the disease to spread. So, they had to quarantine everyone there.


    Back then, the whole Gloomhaven felt like a zombie apocalypse with everyone desperate to survive. But if they let the infectede out, it would spread to others. Moreover, the hospitals were full, and there were no effective medicines. People couldn''t even receive basic treatment before they passed away


    Keh lifted his eyelids, his deep phoenix-like eyes looked dismissively at Xander, with an arrogant expression. "Are you truly concerned about the people of Heloria, or are you just worried about how this might affect your election?" Xander was stunned, caught off guard by Keh''s words. "Is this really how you see me?" Indeed, he was the kind of person who would abandon his wife and daughter for the presidency. He deserved to be viewed like that.


    His gaze


    now.


    faded as he looked at Ophelia. If Queena was still here, she would probably have grown into a young


    Ophelia looked up, meeting Xander''s eyes. woman by


    His eyes were slightly red, whether from anger or something else wasn''t obvious. His shoulders hadpletely drooped. The sunlight outside fell on his entirely white hair, evoking an unspoken sense of loneliness and destion. Ophelia somewhat felt he was a bit pitiful.


    After a moment, Xander took a deep breath. "Yes, the presidential election is in November. Nothing can go wrong in the country during this period."Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Pausing, he looked meaningfully at Keh. "Keh, it was your mother''s sacrifice that ensured the safety of the citizens of Denex. Are you sure you want to jeopardize that?"


    As those words were spoken, Keh''s originally disdainful expression froze, his brow furrowed, eyes narrowed, and his hands unconsciously clenched.


    Ophelia noticed the change in Keh. "Sir."


    ""Dad."


    Ophelia and Noah spoke simultaneously, and as their words fell, they exchanged a nce.


    Ophelia said, "Sir, developing the slums is something I want to do. Even if Keh hadn''t asked you on my behalf, I would have done it sooner orter," It was her desire to develop the slums, and it had nothing to do with Keh. He didn''t need to carry this burden.


    Noah sat back on the sofa, his face no longer friendly, but rather unusually serious. He found Ophelia even bolder than Keh. Instead of discussing the right to develop, she was going to do it directly. That was rather bold and arrogant.


    1/3 Wed, Dec


    Chapter 317 83%


    "I''ve lived in the slums for as long as I can remember, where there''s always been a persistent stench. At first, I didn''t know why, butter on, I learned. Everything you mentioned earlier is for the people of Heloria, and I trust your intentions." Hearing this, Noah took a couple more nces at Ophelia.


    "But the people in the slums are also citizens of Heloria. Yet, they are abandoned by all of Denex, and even the nation itself, despised, and treated as the city''s lower ss. Are you aware of this, sir?"


    Ophelia''s tone was calm, with a faint smile on her lips, but her eyes were cold. Thinking of those unjust treatments and the elderly and children who froze to death, one after another, she continued without waiting for Xander to respond. "People from the slums are still human. They haven''t done anything wrong, yet they have to suffer the injustice caused by others'' mistakes. Why should it be like that?" Xander remained silent.


    Noah, sitting across from him, didn''t say anything either.


    Ophelia sensed Keh wasn''t as agitated as before, and she felt relieved. "Sir, I understand your concerns. As a citizen of Heloria, I also don''t want any unrest in our country. But can we finally move on from some of these old issues? "Once that chapter is closed, we can move past all the unpleasantness and history. If we can''t turn the page, it would be truly disgraceful for the entire nation of Heloria."


    Years had passed since then. Even if people brought up old issues, they were still part of the past.


    Xander''s intended objections suddenly got caught in his throat, leaving him unable to say a word.


    Someone like Keh, who was tough as nails, could be defeated by targeting his weaknesses and the areas he must avoid. But Ophelia spoke up for the people of Heloria with every word, making it impossible to argue against her. He looked at her once more, seeing her in a new light and gaining a deeper understanding of her. Not only was she very courageous, but she also excelled at reading and influencing human nature.


    If she were to team up with Keh in the future, the entirety of Heloria would be theirs. Xander felt a headache thinking of this. He rubbed his temples and suddenly looked up at Noah. "Noah, what do you think about this?" Noah remained expressionless, not surprised. He crossed his legs and rested one arm on the back of the sofa, looking rxed. He first nced at Keh, then let his gaze fall on Ophelia, a rare hint of a smile appearing on his usually serious face. "Dad, I respect any decision you make, but personally, I think the slums in Denex still need to be investigated. If they truly match what Ms. Spencer said, then developing the slums might not be a bad idea," Noah''s words were quite neutral. Ophelia still wasn''t used to hearing such serious talk from him.


    "How about this? I can take a trip to Denex to check out the real situation of the slums, and after I''ve learned more, you can decide whether to develop the area," This approach was currently the most neutral solution.


    Xander couldn''t be too forceful with Keh, and besides, what Ophelia said actually had some truth to it and was worth considering. It gave him some time to think about it properly.


    "Alright, let''s do as Noah suggests. Keh, do you have any objections?"


    "The new shipping line from Waston is mine," Keh''s tone had no hint of negotiation, more like a demand from a bandit. He had suffered quite much and would definitely get something from Xander. Xander sighed, knowing it would be like this. "Alright, or we may have to get someone from a major corporation to manage this project. I trust you with it."


    Keh smirked coldly, stood up, and left the head office with Ophelia, without looking back.


    "Dad, I''m going with them. Noah said, getting up to leave, but Xander stopped him. "Wait, while you''re going to Denex, do me a favor."

 Jilted Bride 318

    COMMENT


    0


    A few minutester, Noah exited the head office and followed Keh and the other, heading to Denex together.


    Before the nended, Noah looked at Ophelia with a serious expression. "Ophelia, I''m in favor of your n to develop the slums. I''ll make sure to verify the situation quickly."


    "Thanks, I appreciate it," Ophelia nodded. She was pleased to have Noah''s support, even though she knew it wasrgely


    thanks to Keh.


    However, if the area could be developed soon, they could settle the elderly and children by the end of the year. Hopefully, this year the people in the slums wouldn''t have to go hungry or freeze again.


    "But I have a question for you," Noah said, his gaze fixed on her eyes, his emotions hard to read.


    "Go ahead."


    "Have you lived in the slums since you were born?"


    "Pretty much, I''ve been living there since I can remember," She didn''t know if she was abandoned there or born there. Either way, she was an orphan who grew up in the slums.


    Noah thought for a moment, then nodded slowly. "The conditions there must be rough."


    Ophelia thought, ''It was more than tough.''


    She gave a bitter smile, "Are kids in the countryside struggling? They are, but they know that as long as they study hard, there''s a chance for a brighter future. But for those living in the slums, hope is something they can''t see."


    The moment their registration listed them as being from Gloomhaven slums, it was like they had an unerasable mark on them. Forget about going to school, even when looking for a job, they''d earn less than others.


    Ophelia told Noah about the real situation there, with half of it being her own experiences and the rest from injustices she''d seen firsthand.


    Keh, standing beside her, listened to all this and furrowed his brows in concern.


    Yet, as Ophelia spoke, it sounded like she was recounting events that had happened to someone else. If it weren''t for living a second life, she wouldn''t have thought of redeveloping the slums. Her mindset, had been shaped by the people there. "I''ll assess the slum situation as soon as possible."


    After getting off the ne, the three of them parted ways at the entrance of the private international airport.


    Noah waved down a taxi. "To the downtown apartment, please."


    "Sure thing," The taxi driver flipped down the empty sign and started driving towards the downtown apartment.


    In the cramped taxi, Noah sat up straight with amanding presence that made others hesitant to start a conversation. His dark eyes gazed at the scenery outside the window.


    As the car headed downtown, it passed a flower shop, and Noah suddenly thought of something and asked the driver to stop immediately. By the time the car reached the downtown apartment, it was already dark.


    The meter showed a high fare, and Noah paid, stepping out with a bouquet of blue irises in his hand. Blue irises were hard to find. He had to search all the city''s flower shops to get them.


    He got into the elevator and pressed the button for his floor. Everything was so familiar. His serious and indifferent face showed no emotions, but his clenched fists and the flicker in his eyes hinted at his nervousness.


    The elevator reached the tenth floor. Noah took a deep breath and stepped out just as the elevator doors were closing. He walked slowly to the door, familiar scenes ying back in his mind.


    His memories were graduallying back. Even though many things were hard to recall clearly, his feelings remained unchanged. He knocked on the door, standing a little straighter without realizing it.


    His Adam''s apple moved slightly on his ck crew-neck tank top. He knocked on the door twice more. He had excellent hearing and could hear footsteps inside getting closer. With each step, his heartbeat quickened. Yet, his sharply defined features showed no expression.


    The door was opened from the inside. "Who is it?"


    Facing an unfamiliar face, Noah barely furrowed his brow, his eyes gradually losing their brightness, bing as calm and still as a tranquil pond.


    The woman who opened the door looked surprised, her face having been impatient before. She found Noah was really handsome. She tidied her messy hair, put on a smile, and her voice became a bit softer. "Who are you looking for?"


    Noah slightly slouched and nced around the somewhat unfamiliar apartment. He might have remembered it wrong. His memory was a bit jumbled. The events of the past five years were overwhelmed by restored memories, making many things unclear. "Have you been living here the whole time?" Noah''s voice was a bit cold.


    The woman was caught off guard, but was happy to answer such a handsome guy''s question. "No, I just moved in recently. You must be looking for the previous tenant. She''s not living here anymore."


    "Sorry to bother you," Noah nodded slightly to show his apology, turned toward the elevator, and his departure seemed inexplicably lonely. He thought, ''So you had moved out. Do you not want me to find you?''


    He


    got back into the elevator, pressed the button for the first floor, and as it descended slowly, he stared absentmindedly at the blue irises he was holding. The elevator stopped at several floors, and a few people got on, pushing Noah to the back. "So, tell mommy what you want for dinner tonight?"Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "I want mommy''s homemade apple pie."


    "Alright, my little foodie."


    Suddenly, Noah froze. He quickly looked up and saw a familiar figure walk by in front of him, just as the elevator doors were closing. One hand held shopping bags and the other held a little boy''s hand.


    In an instant, it felt like all of Noah''s senses vanished. He opened his mouth, but no sound came out.


    He squeezed forward, trying to press the button to open the elevator doors, but they had already elosed and were continuing down. It was just on the sixth floor.


    As soon as the elevator stopped at another floor, he rushed out first, desperately pressing the button to go back up. While waiting for the elevator, he held the blue iris tightly in his hands. He had never felt his heart beat so fast before.


    He couldn''t quite understand his actions, feeling as though someone else was inside him, gradually breaking through his restraint. As soon as the elevator doors opened, he walked in and pressed the button for the 6th floor. With each floor the elevator passed, his heart beat faster and his mind reyed the image and sound he had just seen and heard.


    (+5


    When the elevator doors opened, he stepped out holding the blue iris. There were many residents, so he started knocking on doors one by one after roughly determining the direction. Neither of them was right.


    He paused in front of thest door. His heart felt like it was going to leap out of his throat, making it hard to breathe. His calloused hand hovered in the air, hesitating to knock.


    At that moment, there was a click as the lock turned.

 Jilted Bride 319

    COMMENT


    Someone inside tossed a bag of kitchen trash at the door, and just as she was about to close it, her gaze slowly shifted up from a pair of ck leather shoes.


    ck casual pants wrapped around a pair of long, straight legs, paired with a ck round-neck tank top. In the brown paper bag was a bunch of blue irises.


    Chloe held her breath as she looked up and met Noah''s deep, still eyes. His face was sharply defined with prominent features, but without any unnecessary expression, he looked as silent as a seasoned official Chloe felt like her heart skipped a few beats. She quickly grabbed the door handle and shut it tightly, thinking it must have been her imagination. She turned to head to the kitchen and heard a knock on the door behind her. "Chloe, open the door."


    Hearing this familiar call made Chloe''s legs go weak, as if they were filled with lead, keeping her rooted to the spot.


    ''Chloe, we need to talk."


    The voice was cold and unfeeling, and the knocking echoed again, making her really wonder if this was reality. She wondered who the man really was. He seemed to be Noah. But he had bought blue irises.


    If Noah had regained his memory, he wouldn''t want to see her.


    count to three. If you don''t open the door, I''ll kick it down."


    Chloe found Noah was quitemanding.


    Noah began to count down, "One, two."


    Wyatt ran out of the room, the sound of his little feet pattering. "Mommy, who''s out there?"


    "Three," The door was kicked open, crashing down along with the frame, sending a shower of wall dust to the floor.


    Wyatt saw a tall figure standing in the hazy white space outside the door. "Noah!" His eyes shone with excitement, and just as he was about to rush to Noah, Chloe grabbed his cor, making his little legs il in the air briefly. "Go back to your room," Chloe instructed, steering Wyatt back into his room. The entire living room was left with just the two of them.


    The man''s ck leather shoes creaked on the door as he slowly walked towards her.


    His face was serious, with eyebrows tightly knit, and he coughed lightly into his fist while examining the room''syout. It was remarkably simr to the apartment on the tenth floor.


    He ced the blue irises on the counter and walked to the kitchen. Seeing the food cooking, he said, "You''ve learned to cook? That''s impressive. Not like before when you''d serve takeout on tes, trying to fool me it was homemade." Hearing this, Chloe blushed at the old memories he brought up. Taking a deep breath to understand what had just happened, her expression turned stern. "Mr. West, even in Heloria, breaking into someone''s home is illegal." Hearing her scream, Noah habitually said, "It''s burnt."


    Chloe''s attention went back to the ck smokeing from the oven. Her frown deepened as she quickly went to the kitchen, turned off the oven, and took out the burnt pie. "Noah, you''re not wee here, so please leave." "Are you upset with me? Do you think I''ve let go of my anger over these five years?" Noah''s voice was icy, sending chills down


    her spine. He watched her walk away. He found Chloe was somehow taller,


    "We''ve broken up


    83%


    Chloe ced the tray into the sink. Just as he was about to turn on the tap to wash it, her finger got burned by the edge of the tray.


    "Careless!" Noah turned the cold water on full st and put her hand under it.


    "Being careless has nothing to do with you."


    "Feeling bold, huh? Think I''ve forgiven you? Chloe," He called her by her full name with a hoarse voice. His eyes showed no anger, but there was no warmth either. ready know, why are you


    Chloe pulled her hand away from his. "Since you looking for me? I knew who you were all along, that''s why I stayed by your side. I used you.


    "Don''t you hate being lied to? I''ve been lying to you from the beginning. I''m just someone who can''t stop lying."


    "Once is enough to say something in anger," Noah calmly found the first aid kit and started applying medicine to her.


    Chloe pulled her hand back from him once more. "Leave!"


    "This isn''t the first time you''ve tried to get rid of me. When have you ever truly it?"


    Dean


    Hearing this, Chloe was taken aback. She nced at the blue irises on the table, then at the man in front of her, feeling momentarily at a loss. She could only me herself for being weak before. Her eyes were red, and she choked up. Noah took her hand, helping her with the medicine. As he turned his head, he noticed a small head peeking out from the corner of the wall.


    "Ms. Emma Davidson, shouldn''t you exin him to me first?" Noah nced at little Wyatt peeking from the wall. He looked into those big eyes that resembled ck grapes. Their faces were practically carved from the same mold. Only a fool wouldn''t notice. Or maybe, with his amnesia, he really didn''t notice it at all.


    Clearing his throat, he ced a yellow SpongeBob bandage on Chloe''s finger, picked up the first aid kit, and led her by the hand into the living room.


    Sitting on the sofa, he casually waved at Wyatt by the door, signaling him toe over.


    Wyatt first looked at Chloe, then at Noah. He didn''t know what was going on or why Noah was being so stern. So he got a bit scared.


    "Come over here. Your mommy''s got so much courage, why are you so timid?"


    The mocking tone made Chloe ufortable, but she felt a bit guilty. The memory-restored Noah was not easy to fool.


    "Come here, I''ll buy you gifts," Noah gestured to Wyatt.


    Wyatt was still hiding behind the door, feeling like Noah was unfamiliar. "Mommy, what''s wrong with Noah? Is he sick?"


    "Call me Daddy," Noah insisted.


    Hearing that, Chloe''s heart skipped a beat, and her throat tightened with dryness. "Sweetie, y-you go back to your room first," She couldn''t exin it.


    Wyatt nodded and quickly closed the door.


    Only the two of them remained in the living room. Noah satfortably on the couch, legs crossed, and a rare smile appearing on his usually serious face. But the smile had a hint of coldness.


    Chapter 319-


    *


    "Why did youe to Depex alone?" His tone was like scolding a criminal.


    Chloe hated his tone, and her temper red up instantly. Both were tense, neither having a good attitude.


    "Listen, sir, you''d better watch your tone," Chloe said, crossing her arms and sitting on the single sofa, surprised that their meeting had turned out like this. Noah seemed different from how he was five years ago. His personality seemed to have changed. He was even better at sarcasm now and more difficult to get along with than before.


    "Do I really seem that old?" Chloe seemed to keep a distance between them.


    Suddenly, his thought process became erratic. It was something Chloe had gotten used to since Noah lost his memory. His mind was sharp. He seemed to be theplete opposite of his former self.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    5


    "Ahem," Noah gave her a serious look. "Answer my question. Why did youe to Denex alone? And why-" He wanted to know why she even had a child.


    0


    COMMENT


    8


    3

 Jilted Bride 320

    Noah looked towards Wyatt''s room, thinking about how Chloe had raised the child alone for five years, a frown creasing his brow.


    His face, already serious, became even more frightening, and the tension around him made it difficult for anyone to breathe. Seeing Chloe remain silent, his eyes filled with coldness "Speak. Don''t stay quiet like before when you did something wrong." Chloe let out a mockingugh, "What did I do wrong? I cane to Heloria whenever I please. What does it have to do with you, Noah? We''re broken up. You have no control over me anymore."


    "Broken up? Did I agree to that?" Noah stood up from the sofa and walked over to her, not looking pleased.


    "I already told you, I was lying to you all along. I got close to you on purpose to find out about the West family''s ns, to help my father-"


    Noah lifted her chin and forcefully kissed her lips. As soon as he kissed her, a sharp pain hit his tongue, but he didn''t let go. This kiss was different from the brief one before he lost his memoryst time. It was intense and possessive, both familiar and strange Every time his tongue ventured in, Chloe would bite down hard, the taste of blood spreading in their mouths, which was not pleasant at all.


    But Noah acted as if he couldn''t feel the pain and continued kissing her. He only let her go when a warm sensation touched his cheek, lowering his gaze to look at her.


    Chloe closed her eyes, tears still clinging to hershes.


    He stared at that familiar face, feeling his frustration gradually fading away. She no longer looked like as fearless as she once


    at himself. was. He felt both heartache and anger. He was angry


    "Don''t lie to me. Speak honestly," Noah wiped the tears from her face, his tone noticeably softer. Yet his expression remained


    stern.


    Chloe felt thest barrier in her heart beginning to crack. She lifted hershes, looking at him with her deep blue eyes. "I''ve fooled you so, many times, and you always believed me. Why not this time?"


    Her tears poured out, her eyes red, even her delicate eyebrows took on a faint pink hue. Her presence had been a lie from the very


    start.


    "Do you really think your little tricks could fool me?" He knew perfectly well. He had just willingly let himself be deceived by


    her.


    Chloe looked slightly surprised at the man before her, tears blurring her vision again. Before meeting him, she believed her only purpose was to help her father reim the leadership position that was once his.


    But after meeting Noah, her life changed. She enjoyed watching this serious, straightced man struggle to maintain hisposure under her teasing. She loved teasing him.


    She loved how he lowered his guard for her again and again. She had never experienced this feeling of being embraced


    before.


    After a brief silence, Noah looked at her seriously. "Chloe,e home with me."


    Chloe looked at him in surprise, questioning if she had misheard. She thought Noah didn''t even know what he was talking about. She couldn''t go back with him given her circumstances. She even thought Noah''s mind was somehow unclear. 10:21 Wed, Dec 11


    Noah understood what she was thinking. "Back then, your father conspired with a family from Denex to kidnap my mother and Queena. The person supposed to kill Queena couldn''t do it and left her alive as a bargaining chip. "So it''s very possible that Queena is still alive. Five years ago, when I came to Denex, I discovered some leads about her whereabouts. I was in such a rush to pursue them that I didn''t tell you."


    He didn''t n to leave without saying goodbye, and his anger wasn''t about her being part of the Davidson family. It was about her never trusting him in the rtionship. She never believed in his feelings for her.


    "Once I find Queena, I''ll take you back home," They even had Wyatt now, and everything''d already set in stone. If Xander still didn''t agree, he could always cut ties with him once more. Noah grasped Chloe''s shoulders. "Trust me."


    Chloe stared into his dark eyes and saw herself reflected clearly. For a moment, she felt like she was back to five years.


    "I''ll cook for you and Wyatt. Did you really add so much sugar to the apple piest time on purpose? That''s not how I taught you."Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    The warmth Chloe felt earlier gradually faded, making her feel a bit awkward hearing him say that. She uttered softly, "Haven''t I taught you enough? You keep embarrassing me."


    "When did I ever embarrass you?" Noah said, taking his hands off her shoulders, confusion showing on his serious face. "You forgot all the hacking skills I taught you. Isn''t that embarrassing enough?"


    Noah lowered his eyes, trying to remember, but he couldn''t recall anything about it.


    Wyatt peeked through the crack in the door. He saw Noah enter the kitchen while Chloe watched with an admiring look, like a fangirl. He couldn''t figure out why they had changed. He scratched his forehead, thinking, ''Adults are so strange.'' Noah used the remaining ingredients to make a whole table full of dishes. Wearing a light blue cloud-patterned apron over his ck sleeveless shirt, he ced thest dish on the table. "Call our son for dinner."


    He really got used to calling Wyatt "son." Chloe felt awkward hearing that. "Who said he''s your son?"


    Noah set the te on the table a bit louder than needed. "No lying allowed."


    Chloe was at a loss for words. His scolding tone was back. "Some people were cuter when they were clueless," At least back then, he behaved.


    "Do you


    like that clueless guy because he was easy to fool?"


    Chloe was speechless, the way he talked was like he wasn''t talking about himself. Back then, he was really easy to fool. He believed everything she said, unlike now.


    Wyatt didn''t need to be called. He came out on his own, his eyes assessing Noah. "Noah, you''re not allowed to bully my mommy."


    "From now on, call me Daddy."


    Those words made Chloe'' heart skip a beat.


    Wyatt Stevens was unfazed, tilting his head. "Did you win my mommy over? Mommy, have you agreed to let him be my daddy?"


    Noah bent down and picked up Wyatt. "Give me two minutes. Let me talk to him."


    "Put me down! I don''t like you this way."


    "Call me Daddy."


    Both Chloe and Wyatt were speechless.


    With Wyatt Stevens'' bedroom door shut, Chloe was still confused. She wondered what Noah wanted to say to Wyatt. Driven by curiosity, she walked to the door and pressed her ear against, feeling somewhat familiar about eavesdropping. In the room, Noah held Wyatt up to the mirror. "Take a look. Do we look alike?"


    "Not at all. I take after Mommy, who''s smart."


    Noah was speechless. He was surprised that there was such a strong belief that he had a silly image.


    Wyatt didn''t even look at the mirror. He tilted his head, looking at Noah. "I don''t want you to be my daddy because Mommy doesn''t like you. I have to think about Mommy''s happiness. Don''t even think about me calling you that."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Jilted Bride 321

    "Who says your mommy doesn''t like me? She liked me even before you were born." said Noah.


    "But the person she likes now is me," Wyatt said, tilting his head up with the same expression as the person in front of him.


    From how the two of them, big and small, stood off against each other for affection, no one would believe they weren''t. father and son.


    Noah sighed and softened his tone. "After the ne crash, I got injured and forgot about you and Mommy. I''m sorry I wasn''t there all these years."


    Wyatt, with a serious expression, silently stared at the person in front of him. After a moment, he pouted and asked, "Did Mommy forgive you?"


    "If she forgave me, would you forgive me too?"


    Wyatt nodded eagerly like a little chick pecking at grains.


    "Then let''s try some of the food I cooked first."


    "Okay."


    Noah was holding Wyatt with one arm, and just as they opened the door, they caught Chloe eavesdropping at the entrance.


    Before she had a chance to exin, Wyatt quickly asked, "Mommy, did you forgive Daddy?"


    Chloe was taken aback, wondering what they had been talking about.


    Just a moment ago, Wyatt was so defiant, yet now he was calling him "Daddy" all of a sudden.


    "I-I''m not..." Stammered Wyatt.


    "Let''s eat first," Noah said, holding Wyatt in one arm and putting the other around Chloe''s shoulder as they moved to the dining table. The table was filled with Chloe''s favorite dishes.


    And they were also Wyatt''s favorites.


    It had been a long time since she had tasted Noah''s cooking. Back then when they were together, he always did the cooking.


    She wasn''t satisfied, so she asked him to teach her.


    Later, after the kitchen was destroyed, she ordered a bunch of takeout, put it on tes, and imed she made it herself. At the time, he believed her.


    Looking back now, he didn''t believe it, at all. He was just ying along with her little act.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    How embarrassing it was!


    It just so happened that she met him at 18-such an immature age.


    Looking at the mother and son in front of him, Noah felt incredibly satisfied.


    That little trickster pulled it off, giving her a son.


    <


    §à


    III


    10:32 Thu Dec 12 G


    The serious look on Noah''s face gradually softened. Go ahead and eat


    He ced a piece of pork rib with barbecue sauce he made into lier te.


    Chloe took a bite, her expression faint, "It''s awful."


    "Thanks for thepliments," said Noah.


    "Mommy, these sauced beef steak aren''t bad at all. They''re way better than yours," said Wyatt.


    Wyatt met his mommy''s gaze and didn''t dare to say thest word


    After dinner, Chloe called someone to fix the door and got it reinstalled.


    Noah, just like before, yed with Wyatt in the living room with some fancy toys.


    Wyatt wasn''t feeling it at all. After Uncle Noah became Daddy, he suddenly got that good at building. That was uneptable.


    "I''m tired, not ying anymore," Wyatt said seriously, getting up and heading back to his room.


    Noah looked at thepleted high-end toy with a proud face.


    Compared to your dad, you were still inexperienced.


    The clock on the wall showed ten o''clock. Noah stood up. "Chloe, I''m heading out for a bit. Go to sleep first. Don''t need to wait for me." "Where are you going?" Chloe asked instinctively.


    After asking, she realized maybe she shouldn''t be so concerned.


    She didn''t expect Noah to tell her where he was headed.


    "I''m going to visit someone who''s been searching for Queena all these years." Before leaving, he yfully pinched Chloe''s


    cheek.


    Chloe swatted his hand away, thinking how, as a mother, she was still getting her cheeks pinched like that.


    Just as he turned to leave, Chloe called out to him. "Wait a minute."


    Noah turned around. Chloe stepped forward, cupped his chiseled face, and tiptoed to nt a kiss on his forehead. "Go on then."


    Noah had a barely noticeable smile on his lips; he must have overheard his conversation with Wyatt.


    "Do you know what a kiss on the forehead means?" he asked.


    "You have taught me," she replied.


    They exchanged nces. Noah also cradled her face and kissed her on the forehead.


    In the past, whenever she made mistakes, he''d kiss her forehead, which meant he forgave her.


    *****


    In the Rosewood Manor, Opheliay on the bed. "Kennie, shouldn''t we get down to business now?"


    What we did joo now waterton Kenne raset his eyebastiring the coll hat entergy lefe


    Ophelia let out a sigh, her eyelid so heavy that they were almost losing


    Her mouth moveil, ban she had no idea what she said in the end


    Outside the Rosewood Manor, Ray held a flickering cigarette wern his rough fingers. He nced at the time and wondered where Comon had gone. He hadn''te back yet.


    I

 Jilted Bride 322

    In the private room on the second floor of the Distant Clubs, Keith was reluctantly tidying up a room that was just varated


    Keith didn''t know when such days would ever end


    Just then, a call came through on his smartwatch Clearing his throat, Keith put on his best customer service smile. "Hello, thank you for calling Happy Unlock Services. To unlock a door, press I. For moving services, press 2. For plumbing, press ""Hey, it''s me."


    "Wh who are you?" Keith asked, but then a lightbulb went off in his head.


    His eyes widened in disbelief. "Is it, is it you, the Boss?"


    In an instant, he felt the urge to cry. He looked at the caller ID on his watch and almost hung up in his excitement. "Boss, you''re alive. That''s wonderful."


    He thought he''d be living this way for the rest of his life.


    All his talents had nowhere to be used.


    If Boss was in front of him, he would have knelt and bowed in gratitude.


    After the initial excitement wore off, he startedining like an olddy, "Boss, do you know how I''ve lived these past five years? I have my limits too. Without 150 million dors of damagepensation, I can''t get over this..." "Did you find the person I was looking for?" asked the Boss.


    Keith suddenly went silent, like someone had hit the mute button, and didn''t make a sound for quite some time.


    Just when he didn''t know how to answer, a figure appeared at the door of the private room.


    Noah lowered the phone he was holding to his ear. In the dim and vague lighting of the room, his expression was equally unreadable.


    Keith was taken aback for a moment, "Haha... Boss, how did you get here so quickly?"


    Noah vaguely remembered seeing him at this club before.


    "Boss, I was just joking about thepensation fee. We don''t need that between us," said Keith.


    "Still haven''t found them?" asked the Boss.


    "Ah... uh... hmm..." Keith sighed, "It''s been five years after all. We did have some leads back then-found two people with Rh- negative blood that somewhat matched the age and appearance Butter on...He went off the grid.


    Noah also knew that he came to Denex back then to find these two people for a DNA test for parentage.


    With such slim hopes, Noah was the only one in his family who knew about the whole thing.


    "Send me their information," said Noah.


    L


    "Got it." Keith was operating his smartwatch when suddenly a crossbow bolt came flying at him.


    Instinctively, he raised his hand to block it. The sharp arrow picted his wristwatch


    The watch face shattered instantly.


    The next moment, before Keith could figure out where the arrow hade from, the entire club went dark, and a menacing presence spread around him.


    In the darkness, a lean figure rushed at him..


    Keith felt a breeze brush his face and realized he might not be a match for the opponent.


    The attacker was going for the kill, aiming to end him. "Boss, help!"


    He didn''t want to die yet.


    In the pitch-ck room, Noah sat calmly on the couch. Even in such darkness, he could sense his surroundings.


    Noah got up and kicked one of the fighters hard.


    "Cough cough... Boss, you kicked me... cough." Keith clutched his chest and fell to the ground.


    Noah raised his eyebrows; he knew if he hadn''t kicked him away first, he wouldn''t survive. Noah thought, ''Useless.


    He immediately identified the direction of the other person, and they started to fight.


    Ssh. Noah kicked the person over. He crashed heavily onto the marble coffee table, shattering it into pieces.


    A durable marble coffee table was shattered. One could tell how powerful Noah was.


    He grabbed an arrow that had been shot over, and threw it with a backhand motion at the person on the ground, like tossing a dart, but with the speed and force of a crossbow bolt. Uh... A low groan echoed in the room.


    A few secondster, the power was back on throughout the club.


    The shards of the marble coffee table were still dotted with traces of blood.


    "Who is it?" Noah asked, looking at the escape route the other person took.


    If Noah hadn''t been there today, Z would be dead.


    "He must have been after me. My location waspromised," replied Keith.


    That person was probably the hitman known as BC.


    No one else but BC could leave him in such a messed-up state.


    Keith picked up the crucial chip from the ground and said, "I can''t send the data for now."


    Noah frowned, his face dark and intense. "How long will it take?"


    "It will take about a week at the earliest to repair it. Besides, Boss, could you pay me first, or at least confirm the order?"


    He couldn''t afford to lose track of him again.


    "Half themission has been paid," Noah said, turning to leave the private room.


    *****


    Eric fled frantically out the back door of the club, throwing bloody arrows into the bushes by the roadside.


    Trying to kill "Agent Z" was no easy task.


    In the dead of night in an alley of Denex, a young man leaned against a cold wall, biting on a ck cloth while he poured strong vodka over the wound on his back. "Ugh!" A low groan escaped his lips, his long ck wolf-tail hair filling over his face, the front soaked with cold sweat.


    His face was pale.


    His phone kept vibrating in his pocket, and it took him a while before he finally picked up.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    A rough voice came through the line. "Where did you go? Shoot asked Ray.


    "Ray..." murmured Eric.


    "Where are you? What happened?" Ray''s brows knitted into a frown as he sensed something was off with Eric''s voice.


    After Eric gave his location, Ray immediately got into a ck SUV, speeding off like a cheetah.


    It didn''t take long before he reached the alley entrance.


    Ray got out of the car, mming the door shut with a loud thud.


    In the alley, under the cold white moonlight, he saw a lean figure leaning against the wall. The moonlight illuminated the boy''s face, making him look like a wolf cub.


    He was half in light and half in shadow.


    As he got closer, a strong smell of vodka hit him.


    "You''ve been drinking?" asked Ray.


    Ray crouched down and immediately detected the faint scent of blood beneath the alcohol. "Are you injured?"


    As the lighting here was dim and Eric was wearing all ck, it was hard to see where he was hurt.


    "What did you do tonight?" Ray''s anger red, his voice bing louder.


    The wound on Eric''s back was still bleeding. He had done some basic patching up, which was his usual way of handling injuries.


    "I took on a mission," he admitted, his voice barely louder than a whisperpared to Ray''s.


    Ray was so furious that he grabbed him by the cor. "Haven''t I told you not to take missions on your own after joining the guild?" "You did, but... once this mission''s done, you, you can retire early."


    "What?" Ray looked at him, puzzled.


    "I said, after this mission, you could retire early," Eric said, raising his eyes to meet Ray''s, his gaze as steady as an onyx stone. His eyes were like those of a wounded creature.


    "You want me to retire? Why?"

 Jilted Bride 323

    Pay contar o why did we in pantry wh


    #krar skador, as he had prod


    Gingrichardik, Kayed has eye the


    Talk to Mr. Sir and try to get you a trader" and Ray


    1


    "I don''t ward you to drie wekly merged, sing of whatever Kay was done to say next


    Key was taken aback, his brows that were furrowed with myor and tonly cont


    Eric didn''t want him to die, so he wanted him to reture carry


    Ray didn''t know whether he understood that correctly or not


    Ene leaned again the cell wall, the chilly moonlite pling bice to new transparency, his logs cytaty coction


    Kay sighed, "Everyone has to die everzuty


    He said dismissively, the anger from earlier absent from his voice


    "Buy don''t want you to die too soon, Ray, Wow about reiting only? We could boy a bone by the beach, yet te dry always wanted... just live a simple liter Kay frowned, looking at the sincerity on Eric''s face,


    And that genuine expression left him momentarily speedies.


    After a moment, he snorted, "If people heard you saying, nonsense like that, they''d dieughing at us. Vie live together Which one of us is the woman?"


    He gave Erie an exasperated look.


    "Who says it has to be a man and a woman to live together?


    Toozy to argue with the clueless kid, he stepped forward and pulled him up from the ground. His wound seemed to be bleeding still. "Let''s have that wound checked first" Eric lowered his head. "No need. It''s already taken care of


    "Is this how you''re dealing with it? It could get infected"


    "This is how my foster father used to handle it for me.


    Kay''s eyebrows furrowed again, "Do you know there''s another way? Like going to the hospital? Get in the car


    His voice was gruff and carried a hint of reprimand.


    But when he thought about what Eric had suffered at such a young age, he felt uneasy.


    He shoved Eric into the passenger seat and drove the ck SUV at the alley''s entrance into traffic.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    He still needed to figure out how to exin this to Mr. Sinir.


    Otherwise, with his fragile body, he couldn''t stand the punishment.


    In the next morning at the Rosewood Manor, Ophelia sat up gingerly, supporting her back, and nced at the time


    She had important things to take care of today.


    Keh beside her was still asleep, and it was still early outside


    She got up quietly from the bed, but as soon as her feet touched the ground, a sharp pain shot through her thighs.


    She threw an annoyed look at Keh on the bed, stubbornly enduring the ache in her back and thighs, and held her waist as she went downstairs. "Lisa, you haven''t started on breakfast yet, have you?" she asked, peeking into the kitchen.


    "Not yet, Miss Ophelia," replied Lisa.


    "I''ll make breakfast today." She decided, stepping into the kitchen. She realized she had never cooked breakfast for Keh before.


    She had been in the Rosewood Manor for more than a year. Every meal was prepared by the house chefs and Lisa; she never had to worry about cooking.


    Lisa was just about to step in when she noticed Ophelia''s face light up with a smile.


    Ophelia''s smile was incredibly infectious, like morning sunlight casting a golden glow over her.


    "Miss Ophelia, is today a special day?" asked Lisa.


    Ophelia pressed her lips together, stayed quiet, and tied on an apron before entering the kitchen.


    She wasn''t good at makingplex breakfasts, but she could manage simple things like fried eggs and soup.


    The breakfast was easy; she had it nearly ready in half an hour.


    She went upstairs to wake Keh for breakfast but stopped on the first step to silently curse the stubborn man.


    Once she was inside the room, she walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window.


    "Swoosh." She opened the curtains wide, letting the harsh sunlight flood the bed.


    The person under the gray nket moved slightly.


    "Wake up, Keh," she said.


    Ophelia lifted the covers on Keh'' side of the bed, and just as she finished speaking, she was pulled into his arms.


    The nket was pulled over them.


    The lump under the nkets got even bigger.


    "Stop it, Keh, my back hurts..." Opheliay on top of him, her little head poking out.


    Keh reached for his sses on the nightstand, cing them on his nose while holding her tightly in his strong arms, one hand gently massaging her waist.


    "Why are you up so early today, huh?" His morning voice was a bit husky, deep, and so alluring that it could make ears tingle.


    10:33


    "Something serious," Ophelia replied, yfully nipping at his chin like a kitten.


    "Haven''t you heard? You shouldn''t mess with a man early in the piorning. Keh pinned her down.


    Ophelia tried to push him away, but she couldn''t move him.


    "Didn''t I tell you yesterday what we''re doing today?"


    "No."


    That must be because she was exhaustedst night.


    "We''re going to get our marriage license today." She had prepared all the necessary documents as soon as she got back to Rosewood Manor yesterday. They couldn''t dy this any longer; they had been ''driving without a license'' for over a year.


    Keh'' hand, which was moving down her waist, suddenly stopped. "What?" he asked."


    Through his sses, Keh'' sharp eyes were intently watching Ophelia beneath him. "Are you sure about this? This is yourst chance. Think it over carefully."

 Jilted Bride 324

    Keh propped himself up and spoke, emphasizing each word


    He had asked her the same question before, also encouraging he to think carefully.


    At that time, he had said if she ever left him, he couldn''t guarantee what he might do.


    Ophelia wrapped her arms around Keh'' neck. "No need to overthink it, Keh. Listen, I''ll say it onest time: I will never leave you as long as I live. Unless... I die."


    Her blue, clear eyes were locked onto Keh in front of her.


    She was just as determined as ever.


    Since the day he held her as they went down into the sea in their past lives, her entire being in this life was focused on Keh.


    When he lived, she would live alongside him.


    When he died, she would go with him.


    So there was nothing to think through.


    A marriage certificate wouldn''t change their love; having one or not made no difference. But she wanted the right to sign his surgery consent forms and wanted them to have the right to decide each other''s fate. Keh'' eyes glimmered slightly behind his sses. He gently caressed her cheek, his gaze tender.


    He wasn''t sure how long he had to live, so he couldn''t


    marry her


    He was afraid; even he could feel scared-worried that he wouldn''t be able to be with her for long.


    He was worried about holding her back and ruining her life. Her future was still long, and he couldn''t gamble with her happiness.


    Ophelia held his face in her hands, seeing a deep sense of helplessness in his eyes.


    Suddenly, a sharp pain struck her heart.


    This was something thete Keh would never have feared.


    In the past, his eyes were filled only with power, violence, and arrogance.


    He controlled others'' fates; he set the rules.


    "Kennie..." Ophelia reminded him.


    SONGS I


    "Let''s decide after the surgery is over." Keh stared at her for a long time before finally speaking,


    In the past, all he cared about was revenge. Later, he realized everything he wanted was nothingpared to Ophelia in front of him. Keh thought, ''Little one, do you know you''re more important than my life?''


    If he couldn''t ensure her a perfectly smooth life, at the very least, he wanted her future to be carefree and untroubled.


    "Keh, I''m not afraid. What are you scared of? You don''t want to get the marriage license with me, but with someone 1/4


    else? Can you handle ime being with another man in the future?" Ophelia locked eyes with his deep, intense gaze.


    Maybe it was because he had just woken up, the redness in his eyes was even more noticeable.


    His chest rose and fell, and his breathing became heavier.


    He couldn''t handle it.


    Just the thought of it was unbearable for him.


    Keh leaned on the pillow, gradually tightening his arms to pull Ophelia into his embrace.


    97%


    "Keh, no one in this world will love me more than you. If you leave me, I can''t promise what I might do. Consider this a threat if you like."


    She was threatening him with the words he had once said.


    Seeing the hesitation in his eyes, Ophelia furrowed her brows slightly. "I''m giving you one more chance. Speak clearly and decide today whether you''ll get the marriage license with me or not." The room was so silent that they could only hear each other''s breathing.


    Keh'' eyes were bloodshot as he stared at Ophelia beneath him.


    Ophelia''s clear and innocent eyes showed a hint of stubbornness.


    "If I don''t get it today, I''ll never get it in my life. I might as well die. Let''s see if you''re scared or not."


    Ophelia said angrily.


    She was already threatening to die; that was all she could do.


    "I dare you." Keh raised his eyebrows as he hugged her tightly, afraid she might act on impulse.


    "Without my permission, you need to live to a ripe old age."


    It was pointless of living a long life without him around.


    Ophelia didn''t want to argue further. She ordered. "Get up, freshen up, and take the breakfast."


    Keh pulled her onto hisp, tilting his chin slightly with a smug tone. "Kiss me."


    He needed somefort too.


    Ophelia was speechless as she kissed his chin.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ''What a Jerk!'' Ophelia thought.


    **


    **


    As they went downstairs, Keh wore a rarely-seen white shirt and ck pants that outlined his long, straight legs and his V-shaped waist. A ck suit jacket was draped over his arm. Ophelia wore a white long dress with a shirt cor and a pair of high heels, her hair pulled up in a high ponytail, looking fresh and vibrant.


    She hardly ever wore high heels, but today was an exception.


    She held a folder containing their marriage documents in her hand.


    <


    Lisa couldn''t help but notice, this and smiled at the side. "Mr. Siir, this breakfast is specially made by Mrs. Sinir herself this morning.


    "Got it, Keh nced at Ophelia beside him and then sat down to enjoy his breakfast.


    The breakfast Ophelia made tasted good.


    How fortunate was he, in some lifetime, to have met her.


    Ophelia sat nearby. Seeing him staring at her, she couldn''t help but touch her face. "What''s wrong?"


    Ophelia thought, ''Is there something on my face?''


    "Just admiring how lucky you are to soon get your license with the most outstanding man in Heloria," said Keh.


    He wasn''t humble at all.


    "Yeah, how did I get so lucky?" Ophelia went along with him.


    She truly was lucky. That winter, she didn''t freeze in the slum but met Keh.


    How fortunate she was to get a second chance at life to be with him.


    She lowered her head and started enjoying her homemade breakfast. It seemed very simple, but Keh, who usually didn''t eat much, finished everyst bite.


    As they left, they saw Ray standing alone at the door.


    "Where''s Eric?" Ophelia asked.


    "Uh... Mrs. Sinir, Eric took an unauthorized jobst night and got hurt. He''s still recovering," replied Ray.


    "Is he seriously injured?" asked Keh.


    "Not too serious." Ray nced at Mr. Sinir. "Mr. Sinir, Eric''s young and a bit impulsive. He wasn''t informed of the guild''s rules beforehand. So if anyone needs to be penalized, let it be me." Ray bowed his head low, ready to ept the punishment.


    "Just this once," Keh said those three words.


    Though his tone was unclear, those words already showed that he was in a good mood.


    Today he had to go get the marriage certificate; there was no time for punishment and the like.


    Ray was taken aback. He couldn''t shake the feeling that Mr. Sinir was unusually gentle now.


    "Yes, Mr. Sinir. Where would you and Mrs. Sinir like to go? I''ll drive..." said Ray.


    "No, no." Ophelia forced a smile. She couldn''t bring herself topliment Ray''s driving skills. "Take a couple of days to rest and look after Eric in the meantime."


    Aaron, the driver from Rosewood Manor, drove up a sleek ck Maybach.


    They got back into the car.


    On the way to the court house, Ophelia tightly held Keh'' hand, never letting go.


    The car stopped in front of the court house, with the ring sunlight reflecting off the golden que.


    Chapter 324-


    They arrived early, and since it wasn''t a special day, there was no one in line at the entrance,


    "Let''s go." Ophelia, holding the documents, was about to get our when Keh pulled her into his arms. "What''s wrong?" Ophelia thought, ''Is he having second thoughts?

 Jilted Bride 325

    Ophelia stared stubbornly at him. If he dared back out, she might just point a gun at her head to force him in.


    "Do I... look good in this white shirt?" Keh asked sincerely.


    Ophelia raised her eyebrows, a little incredulous at what she just heard.


    Ophelia thought, ''What did he just say?''


    The air in the car turned tense for a moment. It was not a question Keh would ask.


    "Am I handsome?" asked Keh.


    With such a charming face, he''d look good even in a bup sack


    Seeing the serious look on his face, she suddenly wanted tough. His expression suggested that he might be nervous.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She started feeling a little nervous herself.


    She gave him a quick kiss on the face. "My husband is the most Handsome, no matter what he wears."


    She was telling the truth. She had never seen anyone more handsome than Keh.


    After the kiss, Keh felt more rxed. He was about to open the car door when Ophelia called him back.


    "Hold on a second." Feeling slightly anxious, she opened the folder in her hand, checked the documents to make sure everything was there, and finally breathed a sigh of relief. Keh was just about to step out of the car when Ophelia called out. "Wait, wait a minute." She pulled out a lipstick from her bag and applied it. "Does it look good?" "Haha... my wife is the most beautiful."


    Aaron in the front seat couldn''t help butugh. "Mr. Sinir and Mrs. Sinir, one handsome, the other beautiful, no doubt about it."


    "Let''s get inside quickly," they said to each other.


    Ophelia took a deep breath, got out of the car, and linked arms with Keh as they entered the court house together.


    They were the first couple of the day. As soon as they stepped in everyone at the court house was stunned.


    "Isn''t that Keh?"


    No one in the entire Heloria didn''t know him


    What was he doing at court house? He certainly didn''te to blow it up.


    Immediately, everyone at court house stood up to greet him, and the person in charge hurried to the front. "M-Mr. Sinir, is there anything we can do for you here at court house?" Keh frowned. "What do you


    think I''m here for at court house?"


    The lead official was sweating bullets, taking a moment to react. They hadn''t received any news of Kehing, nor did they hear about the Sinir Group nning a takeover of the court house. Ophelia was just as surprised, not expecting Keh'' visit to court house to have such an effect.


    11


    <


    "Uh...well. I made an appointment to get our marriage certificate yesterday" she said softly.


    Only then did the officiale to his senses. "Oh, Mr. Sinir here to get the marriage certificate, right?"


    "What else? Did you think I came to blow up the court house?" Keh said irritably.


    As soon as he said that, the lead official started to sweat.


    The idea of Keh blowing up the court house wasn''t too shocking, buting to get a marriage certificate was unusual.


    It was rare for important people like him toe in person to get a marriage certificate.


    "Here''s our paperwork," Ophelia said as she handed it over.


    "Oh...oh, quickly, quickly." The official ordered.


    Everyone immediately returned to their stations. They didn''t need to fill out the information themselves; the staff printed it out and handed it over. They just needed to sign


    *


    Looking at the paper handed over by the staff, Ophelia picked up the pen from the table and signed her name where it was required.


    Keh followed suit by raising his hand, and someone promptly handed him a pen.


    "I''ve said all there is to say. It''s toote to regret it now," Keh remarked with Looking quite smug, he quickly signed his name.


    a hint of pride.


    "There is no wedding photo in the files. Do you need to take one now?" asked the staff member. "Yes." Ophelia nodded. Her naturally pure and cute face looked even more attractive with her smile. Mrs. Sinir was very easygoing.


    "Alright, this way please." The staff member led them to the photo area.


    Keh took off his jacket, and the person in charge immediately reached out to receive it.


    They both sat down and without the photographer''s prompt, their heads naturally leaned together. Ophelia had a sparkle in her eyes


    and a smile on her lips.


    Keh first nced down at Ophelia beside him, a deep curve forming on his lips as he casually looked at the camera.


    The shutter clicked.


    The seal was stamped and two marriage certificates were


    given to them.


    Keh opened the marriage certificate, looked at the photo, and a satisfied smile appeared on his face.


    "Mr. Sinir, the oath table is this way," said the staff member.


    In usual times when many people made their registration, the oath ceremony was done as quickly as possible, but when it came to Keh, they didn''t dare skip any steps.


    "Oh right, there''s the veil." The organizer remembered everything possible for the asion.


    For young people today, getting a marriage certificate muste with a sense of asion.


    Ophelia remembered that she had seen other girls wearing veils to get their marriage certificates when she came to the courthouse the first time.


    Her gaze stayed on the veil for just two seconds before Keh promptly picked it up.


    He awkwardly ced the veil on Ophelia''s head.


    With their marriage certificate in hand, they stood at the vow-taking podium, gazing at the vows on the wall.


    Together, they recited. "We willingly join in marriage, and from today onwards, we will shoulder the responsibilities and duties that marriage bestows upon us, supporting each other and loving one another for life..."


    As the words faded, Keh looked at Ophelia wearing the veil beside him, and at this moment, he truly felt that his sweetheart was marrying him.


    It was certainly an odd feeling.


    "Happy wedding day, little one," said Keh.


    He gently held Ophelia''s face and leaned in to kiss her lips.


    "Happy wedding day, Keh," Ophelia replied.


    As they walked out of the court house, the golden sunlight glinted off the two certificates in their hands.


    Ophelia recalled that others took a photo for their wedding certificates, so she raised her phone, holding the marriage certificates, tilted her head, and snapped a picture with Keh beside her.


    She casually edited a status update. Ophelia: [Keh, First impressions may be thrilling, but being with you still makes my heart race. I just want to love you forever.]


    Keh nced at her post and chuckled softly. "Thrilling at first sight? Can a four-year-old even know what thrill is? Hmm?"


    "But you''re the one who had it all nned out from the start," replied Ophelia.


    "Mrs. Sinir, are you having second thoughts?"


    "Yes, I am. Regretting it."


    "It''s toote."


    Keh grabbed the marriage certificate from her hand, and on the way back, he kept turning it over and over, inspecting it.


    Meanwhile, at the downtown apartment, Chloe stepped out of her room and noticed a figure in the kitchen. The dining table was neatly set with three breakfasts, and the breakfast of Wyatt had a smiley face made of ketchup. "How did you get in?" Chloe nced at the time, surprised she hadn''t heard anything.


    "I made a key while fixing the door." In reality, he had Keith specifically open the door.


    "Freshen up ande to eat," Noah said as he set the soup on the table.


    The aroma was enticing, still that familiar scent.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Jilted Bride 326

    Chloe was a bit stunned, as it had been such a long time since she had seen such a scene.


    "Any updates of Queena?" she asked.


    If they found Queena, it would case some of the guilt she felt.


    When the Davidson family did those things back then, she was too young to know. Even when she grew up, she wasn''t quite clear about what happened. Since she was a child, she was taught to restore the Davidson family, to bring them back to Helor¨ªa, and to see her father take the top leadership position. All she knew was that years ago, the West family had erased the Davidson family from Helor¨ªa, and didn''t allow the Davidson family to enter Heloria for years, So when she discovered who Noah was, she loved to tease him, always opposing everything he did,


    "Not at the moment. I suppose this gives me the chance to spend a few days with you guys.


    "I''ll also take the opportunity to check out the situation in the slums."


    Seeing Chloe still standing there stunned, Noah walked up and ced his hand on her shoulder. "What are you doing just standing there? Go freshen up ande to eat." He turned her around and gently pushed her toward the bathroom.


    Meanwhile, Wyatt came out of his room in pajamas, rubbing his eyes and locking eyes with Noah at the door.


    "Uncle Noah...oops, I mean, good morning, Daddy," said Wyatt.


    "Morning, go freshen up


    bathroom.


    ande to eat." Noah bent down, picked him up from the floor, and carried him to theN?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    "Morning, Mommy," said Wyatt.


    The three of them stood in front of the bathroom mirror; this was a scene Chloe never dared to dream of.


    It was an unprecedented warmth.


    During breakfast, Chloe quickly checked her phone and found hundreds of messages in the work group chat.


    She thought, ''What''s going on?''


    As soon as she clicked in, she saw everyone was sending messages, saying: [Congrattions to the boss on the wedding.]


    [Wishing you many years of happiness and lots of kids.]


    Chloe was speechless and thought, ''What''s going on?''


    Chloe opened her WhatsApp and saw Elia''s post showing off her marriage certificate. Before she could even click on it, the phone was taken away by Noah sitting at the dining table. "Forgot the rules? No phones during meals. You know your stomach isn''t great, right?" said Noah.


    Chloe frowned, her deep blue eyes flickering slightly. He still remembered that her stomach wasn''t good.


    III


    10:24 Fri,


    "I just wanted a quick look-Seems Elia and Mr. Sinir got their marriage certificates."


    Noah sternly stopped her from seeing it, but he checked it himself and even liked it.


    "I''ve already liked the post for you. Just focus on eating now."


    Chloe was lost for words and said, "Old-fashioned."


    Noah could tell just from her eyes that she was secretly calling him old-fashioned.


    He turned off the phone''s screen and set it aside.


    "We should get our marriage certificates too."


    Chloe paused mid-sip of her soup; her heart skipped a beat. She forgot to blow on the hot soup and burned her tongue, leaving it tingling.


    "Be careful, Mommy." Wyatt quickly grabbed a napkin, beating Noah to it.


    Chloe took the napkin and wiped the corner of her mouth.


    Even if he did find Queena, his sister, there was still an insurmountable gap between them.


    "Noah, you must be aware of my father''s n. The main election this November is bound to create a stir. You have your mission, and I have my position," said Chloe.


    They all carried family responsibilities. The grudges from the previous generation ran too deep, making it destined for the Davidson family and the West family to be at odds forever. Noah stared at Chloe in front of him with eyes as blue as an ancient well.


    The atmosphere at the dining table froze for a moment.


    Wyatt paused his breakfast eating.


    "So, it seems like we need to team up for many things." As Noah finished speaking, Chloe looked up at him, and their eyes


    met.


    On the other side, Ophelia''s new post on WhatsApp got over 99 likes and congrattions just after she finished it.


    On her way back, her phone buzzed with notifications.


    Upon arriving at the Rosewood Manor, Lisa and Liam were standing at the door, one on each side.


    The couple got out of the car and walked into the vi as a shower of red rose petals fell from upstairs,


    "Congrattions to Mr. and Mrs. Sinir on your wedding." Lisa beamed, unable to contain her smile, as a row of servants and bodyguards lined up behind her and chimed in unison. Saying this, Lisa shot a re at Liam.


    They were supposed to speak in sync, but he was out of step.


    "Thank you, Lisa, and everyone, for the warm wishes." Ophelia held Keh'' arm, ncing at the vi.


    When they left, there weren''t any of these decorations, but when they returned, the windows had been decorated with balloons, and the floor was scattered with rose petals.


    Though it was a bit tacky, she liked it.


    At this moment, she truly felt like she had married Keh.


    Lisa was overjoyed; Mr. Sinir and Ophelia were finally married, which made her happier than anyone else. Watching them, tears unknowingly welled up in her eyes.


    Normally, getting married would involve both families sitting down for a celebratory meal. However, as Ophelia had no parents, Mr. Sinir had no mother, and his father never cared for Keh, so he was, naturally, absent from this event. That was why she arranged staff members to decorate the Rosewood Manor while the couple was getting their marriage licenses, to at least have a semnce of a wedding celebration.


    When they returned to the room, the bedsheet had been changed by Lisa to a white one.


    The bed was also scattered with rose petals.


    Ophelia picked up a rose petal and kissed it.


    It was supposed to symbolize having a child soon. She wasn''t thinking about children at the moment.


    It was because Keh'' birth control efforts were too effective; she hadn''t had the opportunity.


    Just then, her phone rang.


    It was a call from Theo.


    "Dear girl. Why didn''t you tell me about getting the marriage certificates? Bring Keh over for dinner tonight. You''ve both been so busy since Christmas Day, and you haven''t visited me in a while," said Theo.


    Ophelia nced at Keh.


    She didn''t exactly know what the usual process was for getting married, as they had no elders around. Theo, who had been like a grandfather to her, always took good care of her, and the Carnegie family was very attentive to her too. It was just that she had been so busytely that she hadn''t had time to visit him.


    Keh was in an exceptionally good mood today. Everything seemed brighter and clearer.


    "You are the boss," said Keh.


    "Okay. We''ll head overter," Ophelia said into the phone before hanging up.


    Keh was sitting on the couch, holding the two marriage certificates that he''d been looking through repeatedly since he


    came in.


    "How about we get a custom frame made to disy the marriage certificates?" Ophelia suggested with a cheerful tone. Thus, we could hang it on the wall and watch it every day.


    Keh raised his eyebrows, his expression seemed to say, "That''s a great idea."


    Ophelia thought, ''Is he really going to hang them up?''


    After a little while, Keh'' brows furrowed again.


    No, he couldn''t disy them; he thought, ''He had to lock them up.''


    He had heard that for a divorce, both marriage certificates were needed.


    "Let me see mine," Ophelia-said, reaching out to Keh.


    10092%


    He had been holding them the whole time. Except for the moment when the staff handed it to her after the embossed seal was affixed and she managed a look of it, the documents had remained in his hands. She hadn''t even gotten a good look at how the photo turned out


    "What are you up to?" Keh asked.


    Keh, as if protecting a treasure, pulled the marriage certificates closer to himself.


    0

 Jilted Bride 327

    His expression was just like that of a kid who was afraid that someone might steal his toy.


    Ophelia looked on, amused and exasperated. "Can''t I even have a look?"


    "Sure, I didn''t say you couldn''t look." Keh raised his eyebrows, nced at the two marriage certificates in his hand, and then passed hers to her. Ophelia opened it and nced at the photograph. It was well taken, with her and Keh'' heads close together, both smiling with gleams ofughter in their eyes. "Finished? It''s time to give it back to me."


    Ophelia was taken aback. Before she could take a second look, it was already out of her hand.


    "You won''t find anything new. One nce is enough," Keh said, as if it was the most obvious thing.


    Ophelia was speechless and thought, ''Nothing to see? He sure seemed to have taken a long look earlier


    Keh adjusted his gold-rimmed sses, ced the two marriage certificates together, and carefully locked them in the


    safe.


    All day long, he had opened the safe more times than he could count.


    In the evening, a ck Maybach drove through the open gates of Carnegie Vi. The vi was well decorated with festive ornaments, as if hosting a celebration. Ophelia got out of the car and hadn''t even reached the door when a blur of purple dashed towards her.


    "Sis," Rex, who recentlynded an endorsement, had dyed his hair purple. He rushed to her like an excited husky with his hands up, practically wagging his "tail"


    The next moment, seeing Keh behind her, he quickly lowered his hands and stood up straight. "Hey, Keh." "Hey," Keh replied casually, passing the bouquet to Rex.


    Rex didn''t dare toin, carrying it as he followed them into the house.


    Rex was really timid before Keh.


    Theo stood up. "Come on, have a seat."


    A smile had been stuck on his face ever since he saw the two of them.


    Almost all the members of the Carnegie family were present.


    It showed the great importance of this event.


    Mrs. Carnegie and Bethany had been busy with preparing arge meal since the afternoon and even the mahogany dining table was well set up.


    The family gathered around the round dining table, and Fiy and Bethany gave the newlyweds a wedding gift-a pair of tinum love locks with a 10-carat pink diamond heart set in the center. ra and Henry also gave gifts. ra presented a jewelry box.


    When it was opened, it was full of jewelry. "I''m unsure what kind of jewelry you like, so I bought one from each collection."


    Receiving this gift, Ophelia took a deep breath; the Carnegies'' extravagance was on full disy.


    "Hey sis, Keh, I wrote a song for you both. Let me sing it to you..." Just as Rex was about to start, Henry and ra pulled him down to sit between them. ra said, "Alright, don''t show off."


    Henry added, "Don''t embarrass yourself."N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Rex didn''t feel embarrassed, at all. They were the ones who cut off his financial support; he had no money to buy presents, so he had to showcase his talent instead. Seeing Rex'' head drooped, Ophelia tried tofort him. "Uh... we appreciate your thoughtful gesture."


    Jackson stood up from his seat beside Mrs. Carnegie and Fiy. Leo is studying abroad and can''t be here. This is the gift I prepared for you."


    His gift was different from all the others.


    He was a student majoring in biotech. Ophelia once requested him to help check the water quality in a deprived area.


    He spent more than three months developing a way to treatrge areas of sewage and break down ocean waste.


    That was the most crucial part of the feasibility report that Ophelia had been expecting.


    With this solution, the slum development project was halfway toward sess.


    "Thanks, Jackson," said Ophelia.


    Hearing the thanks of Ophelia, Jackson felt very satisfied.


    "You shouldn''t have. We''re all family here," Mrs. Carnegie said approvingly as she nced at her son, seeing that the gift was exactly what was needed.


    "Oh, by the way, I''ve picked out some good dates for the wedding for you two. You and Keh can take a look after dinner." "A wedding... there''s no rush to n it," Ophelia said, not considering the matter. She didn''t care much for these formalities Besides, Ophelia couldn''t tell them about Keh needing surgery.


    "Both of them are focused on their careers right now; when they are ready, we''ll handle everything. No hurry," Fiy said. After all, Keh'' wedding shouldn''t be done carelessly.


    At that moment, Theo, seated at the head of the table, raised his hand, and Gerald, the butler, immediately handed over the prepared documents.


    Everyone at the table went silent for a moment.


    "Elia, this is what I promised you, 5% of the Carnegie family''s shares as your dowry. Now you and Keh have registered your marriage, it''s time for you to have them," said Theo.


    Keh leaned back in his mahogany chair, legs crossed. No matter where he was, he had an aura of dominance, but he was much more gracious to the Carnegie now than he had been before. "Take it," he said calmly.


    The whole Sinir Group belonged to his little one now, and her worth was substantial. Collecting these stocks from the Carnegie family was well within her capability. Chapter 327


    Ophelia didn''t hesitate and reached out to take it.


    As they finished their meal, the lively family atmosphere surrounded the two of them.


    This suddenly reminded Ophelia of the time when the Hastings family sent her to the Rosewood Manor. Back then, only a driver took her there.


    Though sheter learned she wasn''t rted to the Hastings by blood, at the time, thinking she was getting married, she felt quite lost.


    Now she realized that having a family means getting married like this.


    After dinner, the family sat on the sofa chatting, and Gerald came in from the outside, holding a lot of gifts in his hand.


    "Mr. Carnegie, this is ..." Gerald wished to speak but stopped on a second thought, and looking at the people on the sofa, he didn''t continue. Just by looking at those gifts, the expression on Mr. Carnegie''s face had the answer.


    Theo'' smile suddenly solidified.


    After a moment''s silence, hemanded coldly. Threw them all out.


    "Yes, sir. But..." Gerald took out something from the top gift box, which was a bronze pocket watch. "Is this also thrown away?"


    Seeing the bronze pocket watch. Theo'' eyes froze. After a few seconds, he snorted.


    "Throw it away," said Theo with a lot of energy.


    "Yes." Gerald acted ordingly to throw out the gifts.


    The harmonious atmosphere in the living room suddenly became a little strange.


    The younger ones didn''t know what happened.


    Ophelia nced at the time. It was gettingte. She stood up, and Keh beside her stood up with her. "Theo, we''ll head


    back now."


    "It is


    gettingte; time for some couple time," ra joked, though her smile wasn''t very deep.


    Theo stood up to take Ophelia''s hand. His old, wizened hand gently patted the back of hers. "Take care on the road, and remember toe back often to keep mepany


    "Okay." Ophelia nodded, feeling that Theo''s gaze on her was a bit odd, full of reluctance and something else. It was moods that she couldn''t quite understand.

 Jilted Bride 328

    After Ophelia and Keh left, Theo looked at the symbolic items he had thrown away and turned his gaze away.


    "Hurry up and pick the pocket watch back up for me," said Theo


    Before Gerald could even move, Fiy hurried down the steps and picked up the pocket watch.


    Others might not know the significance of this watch, but Fiy and ra were well familiar with it.


    It was their mother''s keepsake.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Theo held the pocket watch in his hands, his aged fingers tracing its engraved patterns, a touch of sadness shown in his eyes.


    By the time they got back to the Rosewood Manor, it was already close to ten o''clock.


    Ophelia carried her heavy dowry into the room, gently pursing her lips.


    With so many gifts received, she didn''t know if she''d ever have the chance to return the favor.


    She didn''t like owing others.


    Keh sat on the couch, wrapped an arm around Ophelia''s waist, and pulled her onto hisp. "They gave you these because you deserve them. Just ept them happily without feeling pressured." He patted her head gently.


    Ophelia turned her head. Keh always knew what she was thinking.


    "My dear wife, isn''t it time to fulfill your wifely duties on our wedding night?" Keh raised his eyebrows, feeling that doing such things seemed even more natural after getting their marriage certificates. Ophelia was on guard. Keh had had enoughst night.


    Her waist was still sore.


    She had been performing her wifely duties for over a year; one more day wouldn''t make a difference.


    Just as she was about to stand up, a strong arm wrapped around her waist, and kisses slowly spread from her ear.


    Her breathing became erratic, and her whole body felt weak, as if she had been electrified.


    Keh lightly bit the most sensitive skin on the back of her neck and slowly grazed it.


    He guided Ophelia in his arms onto the couch.


    At that moment, the phone on the table vibrated twice, the sound particrly jarring in the intimate silence of the room.


    Ophelia found her voice. "I''ll go take a shower first."


    She reached for the phone and handed it to Keh.


    The warmth in his arms slipped away as Keh picked up his phone, his face darkening. "Why are you calling a married man at this hour?"


    Ronin on the other end was taken aback. There was no need to emphasize the ''married'' part to him.


    He might think he hadn''t fed enough love drama.


    "I just had a meeting with some experts. The surgery is scheduled for next Monday. You need to check into the hospital two days before for pre-op tests," said Ronin. Ophelia paused on her way to the bathroom, feeling her heart suddenly grow heavy.


    "Got it. Anything else?" Keh loosened his tie and took a deep breath.


    "During this pre-op period, you should try to..." Before Ronin could finish speaking, Keh had already hung up.


    "Talkative." He murmured and stood up, watched Ophelia''s back and hugged her from behind. "Next Monday."


    "Yeah, I heard. I also heard Dr. Ronin say you need to get plenty of rest before the surgery." Ophelia''s voice was light, with no hint of worry as she cheerily turned to look at Keh behind her. She wrapped her arms around his neck.


    Her smile was wide, yet it tugged at people''s hearts.


    Her clear, deer-like eyes had lost their shine, but she forced them to sparkle with cheerful yfulness.


    Seeing Ophelia like this, Keh'' gaze deepened, feeling as if his heart was being torn open. He couldn''t help but press his lips to hers, stealing her breath away.


    "Be good, don''t overthink it."


    Ophelia said, "Nope."


    She didn''t overthink it; there was no need to. Once she made up her mind, she felt even more at ease.


    "Never admit," Keh said as he pressed his forehead against hers, his slender fingers pulling down the zipper on the back of Ophelia''s dress. He knew his girl all too well.


    This was the only way to stop her from overthinking.


    Ophelia wrapped her legs around Keh'' waist, and Keh carried her to the bathroom as the sound of water rushed down over them.


    Her vision was blurred by the water, her long blond hair clinging to her delicate cheeks. Her beautiful eyelids turned slightly red, yet she couldn''t bear to look away from Keh'' face in front of her. She tilted her head back, letting his kisses gentlynd on her neck.


    Keh cupped Ophelia''s wet face in his hands, gently caressing her skin with his fingers as his eyes also became moist and intense.


    They kissed passionately, their reflections ovepping on the misty shower ss.


    The result of overindulging was that the next morning she couldn''t get out of bed.


    She felt like her whole body had fallen apart, as if it wasn''t even hers anymore.


    But she had important things to deal with today.


    She needed to take Noah to quickly understand the situation in the slums. They had to obtain the development rights within the next couple of days, submit the feasibility report, and start the work gradually.


    5


    She didn''t have much time-left.


    The warmth behind her was gone, and when she checked the time, it was already ten o''clock.


    She couldn''t believe she had slept for so long.


    She hurriedly got out of bed, and as she pulled back the covers, her gaze identallynded on a gift box at the foot of the bed.


    There was a handwritten note on it, and Keh'' arrogant handwriting read: [Wedding gift.]


    Curious, she leaned over and opened the gift box.


    Inside the red box were two neatly arranged documents.


    Sea Area Development Rights of Gloomhaven Slum


    Land Development Rights of Gloomhaven Slum


    Approved by: Xander.


    Ophelia looked at the two documents in her hand with disbelief. They were signed by Xander and affixed with the seal of the President


    "The wedding gift for you. Do you like it? It should be more pleasing than anything from the Carnegie family, right?" said Keh.


    A pleasant male voice sounded from the door as he pushed a dining cart into the room.


    Ophelia looked up. "So...so fast?"


    It was so quick that it was almost unbelievable.


    "How did it get done so fast?" She couldn''t believe that just a few words from her could persuade Xander. At that time, Xander''s attitude was disapproving. Permitting them to assess the slum''s situation was already a favor to Keh. It was hard to believe that he agreed in just two days.


    Keh pulled her from the bed into his arms, and her fair legs wrapped around his waist.


    He carried her over to sit at the coffee table.


    "Isn''t it good to be quick?" There weren''t many things he could do for her, but he wanted to n her future path carefully.


    "Sure. Of course." Ophelia gazed into Keh'' eyes, which were as deep and captivating as a whirlpool, hoping to catch a glimpse of something, but found nothing.


    "We''ll need to talk to the city nning departmentter; the wastewater treatment and ocean garbage dissolution require some small-scale testing," said Keh.


    "Okay. I''ll head over in a while." Ophelia nodded vigorously,pletely forgetting who was responsible for her aching body. She could also apply in advance to relocate the people from the slums.


    If she could see the slum residents resettled before going with Keh for surgery in Mgia, she''d have one less thing to worry about.

 Jilted Bride 329

    After breakfast, Keh changed into a formal suit. "I need to go to the Sinir Groupter."


    "Okay." Both of them had things to take care of over the next couple of days.


    Ophelia picked out a tie for him, standing in front of him like a doting newlywed wife, expertly tying it for him.


    He was the one who taught her.


    "Off you go, Mr. Secretary Keh," said Ophelia.


    Keh leaned down for a kiss, gently ruffling her hair.


    Watching Keh leave the Rosewood Manor, Ophelia picked up her phone and made a call. "Mr. Thompson, make sure to update me on what Keh does at the Sinir Group today."


    Mark Thompson, on the other end, wiped his brow nervously. "Huh? Miss... I mean, Mrs. Sinir. Isn''t this asking for a bit much?"


    It was asking him to go against his boss.


    He was not someone who would do that.


    He was Mr. Sinir''s guy, after all.


    "Do you want to change your car? I''ve already ordered the one you postedst time..."


    "Mrs. Sinir, you''re putting me in a difficult position."


    He couldn''t do something like that just for a car.


    "How about I introduce you to a girlfriend, too?"


    "Mrs. Sinir, the whole Sinir Group is yours. Whatever you say, I''ll do it. Talking about cars is too formal. Rest assured Mrs. Sinir, I''ll give you a full report on Mr. Sinir''s activities, even if he just goes to the restroom." He changed his position.


    Ophelia was speechless.


    He wouldn''t change his position because of a girlfriend. Mark looked decent. As the chief aide of the Sinir Group, it was unlikely he couldn''t find a girlfriend.


    Mark felt troubled too. With his position in thepany and being close to Mr. Sinir, no one dared to approach him.


    Besides, the way he worked wasn''t like this usually, and with such a busy schedule, finding a girlfriend felt as hard as going to


    the moon.


    After the call ended, Ophelia changed into formal clothes, picked up her files, and drove to the Urban Development Bureau.


    Recently, because her real estate developmentpanynded two major government projects, La Reverie Real Estate quickly became one of the top five developers in Denex.


    She often had to deal with people from the Urban Development Bureau.


    Previously, Trent mentioned that a feasibility report was needed for slum development, along with seawater test data. She already had both prepared.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    10:25


    Besides that, she also secured the development rights for the area, much faster than she had anticipated.


    Trent flipped through the documents, asionally ncing up at Ophelia sitting across from him.


    His eyebrows alternately furrowed and rxed..


    He still found it hard to believe that this young girl had aplished it.


    Though he knew from the beginning what she nned to do, and knew the reasons why she secured two political projects, he was a bit surprised when seeing all the feasibility reports and test dataid out in front of him. He couldn''t help but regard Ophelia with new-found respect.


    "We need to have a meeting to go over this," said Trent.


    Even if it was a set decision, a meeting was still needed to provide the people of Denex with a proper exnation.


    "Alright, let''s schedule it now," Ophelia urged.


    She knew this wasn''t simple-even if the President approved, they still needed to discuss it, and putting it into action would probably face some obstacles.


    She had anticipated this a long time ago and was fully prepared.


    Trent nced at her sideways. "You''re in such a rush. This isn''t a small matter. I''ll arrange it as soon as possible. Once the time is set, I''ll contact you. Remember to bring the experts." Trent''s tone was rxed.


    She didn''t like dealing with politicians; it felt like ying a never-ending game. Things just dragged on, as if they would never get done.


    "I can bring the experts now," Ophelia said, her tone firm yet polite. "Could you please arrange a meeting this afternoon?"


    .."Trent sighed. It wasn''t the first time he dealt with Ophelia, and she always gave him a headache.


    "Each department has its workload to handle. You can''t expect them to drop everything just for your issue, can you?" added


    Trent.


    "Do I need to have Keh invite them himself?" Ophelia cut to the chase, mentioning Keh directly.


    Trent furrowed his brow and rubbed his temples. If so, Keh would invite them using his gun.


    He didn''t want to see a bloody scene.


    He sighed in resignation, "No need to trouble Mr. Sinir. I''ll have someone contact them; it might just take a little longer." "As long as it''s finalized today, I don''t care howte it gets," said Ophelia. In Heloria, the name Keh still carried weight.


    Two hourster, in the spacious conference room, two sparse rows of people sat. Ophelia had also brought Cody and others to attend the meeting.


    Are you kidding me? Developing the slums? With the President''s permission? Impossible, absolutely impossible."


    "Slums are special ces? They are off-limits in Denex. They are not allowed for development.


    There was a series of voices of opposition.


    Faced with these opposing voices, Cody nced at Ophelia who was calm beside him. "Ophelia, are you seriously nning to develop the slums?" "Yes," Ophelia responded calmly.


    They had never learned that, Ophelia wanted to develop the slums.


    Trent waved his hand. "Everyone, please quiet down. The feasibility report and assessments are already here, and we need everyone present to check them over. If it''s truly feasible, and with the approval of the President, we must proceed."


    V


    "Ms. Spencer, the Gloomhaven slums have been abandoned for years. Developing them is pointless. You''re a businesswoman, you understand business-you might end up with nothing. Your team might just have to endure hardship alongside you." "There''s no need for concern. I have the support of the Sinir Group, so I won''t be left out in the cold," Ophelia said lightly.


    That single remark left them speechless.


    Trent was already ustomed to it. Ophelia was incredibly stubborn and notoriously difficult to deal with.


    "Right now, we can''t even get an urate count of the poption in the slums..."


    Before they could finish speaking, Ophelia handed over the poption data that Felix and his team had collected.


    "With so many people, it''s tough to find solutions instantly..."


    Ophelia presented the relocation n then.


    Even so, all departments continued to dy, discuss and research withouting up with anything useful.


    The sun had already set, and they still hadn''t reached a conclusion or put any ns into action.


    Though she had already provided reasonable solutions to all potential problems, it seemed like these people didn''t hear a thing.


    Ophelia stood up, took a gun from her waist, and ced it on the table.


    In an instant, the entire conference room fell silent.


    Though it was legal to carry guns in Heloria, no one would casually bring a gun to a ce like this.


    "Continue, I''m listening," Ophelia said with a slight smile, though it didn''t reach her eyes.


    "Haha... Ophelia, what do you mean by this? Are you nning to threaten us with the gun? Who gave you the nerve?"


    "I did." As the words were spoken, the double doors of the conference room were pushed open from outside.

 Jilted Bride 330

    ck shoes stepped into the room; the man, nearly six foot three, carried an overwhelming presence. His ck shirt was paired with a smoky gray patterned tie that Ophelia had tied for him when he left the house today. His stunningly handsome, chiseled features conveyed a sense of deadly seriousness.


    The conference room fellpletely silent due to Keh'' presence.


    His bodyguards, all dressed in ck, poured into the room. Each pair stationed themselves behind the department leaders'' chairs, giving off a feeling of captivity.


    The deputy director of the Engineering Department, who had spoken earlier, almost couldn''t remain seated and looked around nervously.


    "What... what is the meaning of this?" He looked at Trent for help and was about to stand up when two strong hands pushed him back into his chair.


    Trent didn''t have a rxed expression; someone even more troublesome had arrived.


    He forced a smile and was just about to get up when someone pressed him back down by the shoulder.


    "Mr. Sinir... what are you doing...?"


    "Isn''t it obvious? I''m threatening you," Keh said, his lips barely moving as he took out a gun from his belt. The sound of the bullet being loaded was exceptionally clear.


    Trent pursed his lips, his face turning pale, and immediately looked at Ophelia. "This isn''t thatplicated. Since we have the solution and the documents from above, we should just go with it."


    "Yeah. That ce needs to be spruced up; it''s affecting the city''s image." Ophelia sneered inwardly; that wasn''t what they said earlier.


    They were against developing that area just now.


    Keh casually took a seat, never once ncing at Ophelia since he walked into the room.


    He crossed his legs and leaned back in his chair, eyeing each of the bald heads. "So what are you waiting for?"


    "It''s just that, Mr. Sinir, if we publicly release the approval documents and start the development, it might cause opposition from other residents. So... I suggest we first make sure the water quality there is safe," said Trent. Trent was being quite subtle; those who got it got it.


    Everyone was aware of what was concealed in that reimed part of the sea; if they made too much noise, it would meet with opposition.


    Keh nced at Ophelia next to him, and with just one look, he turned his gaze away.


    "First, ensure the people there are settled," said Keh.


    -This was what Ophelia was thinking as well, and Keh expressed it for her.


    It didn''t stop there.


    Keh smiled at the group, but that smile sent a shiver down their spines.


    "Until the task ispleted, I''ll make sure bodyguards protect all of you," said Keh.


    His tone made it sound like he was doing them a huge favor.


    This was not protection, but surveince.


    Everyone in the room was shrewd enough to be seated there, ye no one dared voice their anger towards Keh.


    "Why are you just standing there? Do you need my assistance?" Keh said pleasantly.


    "No need at all, Mr. Sinir." They all shook their hands as they cautiously stood up, indeed followed closely by two bodyguards each.


    "Mr. Sinir, they aren''t going to follow us around forever, are they? We still need to go home and sleep."


    "The sooner the work is finished, the sooner they''ll disappear," Keh said, standing up and walking over to Ophelia, ignoring the varied expressions of dismay on others'' faces. "Home," he said curtly. Ophelia raised an eyebrow. Her man was certainly forceful, but she liked that.


    91%


    Some people might hold high positions, but all they cared about was their own interests. To them, the struggles of ordinary folk meant nothing; as long as their own gains were unaffected, they just muddled through. If she had Keh'' skills, she wouldn''t have wasted the whole afternoon.


    Ophelia gave Cody a few instructions, leaving himpletely confused.


    He was lucky to meet Ophelia. This was just too...Indescribable.


    "Don''t worry, Ophelia, we promise to get the job done," said Cody.


    "Mhm." She trusted all her subordinates.


    After giving instructions, she linked her arm with Keh'' and left the conference room.


    "You didn''t even look at me when you came in." Her eyes had been fixed on him the whole time.


    Keh stopped, looked down at Ophelia who only reached his chest, and gently ruffled her hair.


    "Who said I didn''t look at you? I keep my eyes on you the whole time."


    Hearing this, Ophelia felt warm in her heart.


    This charming man was so good at flirting. Her heart skipped a beat at his words.


    She thought, ''Is this what they call being in love?''


    "I thought you''d be busy untilte tonight."


    "It''s the second day of our marriage, of course, I want to be with you."


    Ophelia was speechless, recallingst night''s craziness.


    "Uh... you


    don''t have to."


    Keh gave an enticing smile, his eyes as deep as whirlpools, as if ready to pull her in.


    "But, darling, I liked how you werest night."


    The topic took a sudden change.


    Ophelia''s cheeks blushed as she nced around, ring fiercely at Keh before her. The more he spoke, the more outrageous he became.


    "My back hurts, we''re sleeping in separate beds tonight." She shoved Keh hand away and marched downstairs.


    Keh watched as the petite girl went down the stairs, a hint of a smile on his face. But in the next moment, everything went dark.


    Ophelia took thest step of the staircase and realized Keh behind her hadn''t followed.


    Just as she was about to turn the corner and continue down, she caught a glimpse of Keh out of the corner of her eye. He stood there with his eyes closed, one hand resting on the stair railing.


    In a sh, Ophelia''s face turned pale, "Kennie..."


    She quickly turned around and dashed back up.


    Keh rubbed his temples, and as his vision cleared, he saw the worry on her face and felt a wave of guilt.


    "I was just joking about sleeping in separate beds," Ophelia hurried to reassure him.


    She couldn''t stand the thought of being apart; she''d rather be stuck to him forever.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    A soft chuckle escaped Keh''s lips as he wrapped his arms around Ophelia in front of him, gently pressing her head against his chest with his long fingers. "So, tonight..."


    Ophelia bit her lip, "Dr. West said you need to get some good rest."


    She looked up at him, only to see him closing his eyes again.


    "Okay, okay... I''ll do what you say." Ophelia frowned, feeling like she might have been tricked.


    But she knew Keh too well; he wouldn''t lie to her about something like this.


    *****


    Back at the Rosewood Manor, while Keh was in the shower, Ophelia took the opportunity to call Mark.


    Mark gave a detailed report on Keh'' work for the day, covering everything thoroughly.


    After Mark finished speaking, there was a long silence from Ophelia''s end.


    She looked toward the bathroom. "Did Keh tell you to say all this to me?"


    "Uh..." Mark on the end of the phone hesitated, swallowing hard.


    Mark asked, "How do you know?"


    When Mr. Sinir met him today, he immediately guessed that Mrs. Sinir was calling him.


    What... Without hearing Mark''s answer, Ophelia already knew what it was.


    So what exactly did Keh promise Xander? It must have been quite significant, so he approved the slum development rights quickly.


    She stood there, dazed with her phone, until she heard the bathroom door open.


    Keh walked out of the bathroom wearing a gray bathrobe.


    His wet hair covered his sharp eyebrows, softening his chiseled waist, revealing his well-defined chest muscles and V-line.


    Near his heart, part of a letter tattoo was visible...


    His wet hair covered his sharp eyebrows, softening his chiseled features. The bathrobe belt was casually tied around his waist, revealing his well-defined chest muscles and V-line. Near his heart, part of a letter tattoo was visible...


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Jilted Bride 331

    Ophelia, lost in thought earlier, turned to look at him, her gaze somewhat nk.


    Keh paused in wiping his hair and tossed the towel aside. Aw, enticing chuckle escaped his lips.


    "Heh... what are you looking at?" asked Keh.


    "Hmm?" As Ophelia finished speaking, Keh in front of her soddenly leaned in, and a fresh, minty scent from his body wash surrounded her.


    Keh had been taking some medicine that Ronin sent over the past few days, and asionally, his vision would clear up briefly.


    He lowered his gaze, about to let his kissnd...


    Ophelia slightly leaned back, avoiding it.


    "I need to ask you something," Ophelia said seriously.


    "What did you promise Xander? Why did he give me thend development right so happily? Hmm?" Ophelia mimicked his usual tone, her clear eyes fixed on him. Instead of going in circles, it was better to just ask frankly.


    Xay


    "Once Noah finished his inspection and report, the approval naturally came through."


    "No way!" Ophelia eximed.


    It couldn''t be as easy as he said.


    .w


    1


    Keh frowned, took a deep breath, and said, "I also promised him I''d support him unconditionally in the next leadership election."


    "Is that all?"


    "What else?" Keh responded calmly, his eyes steady on Ophelia in front of him.


    "Alright," Ophelia replied.


    For now, she decided to trust his words.


    The next day.


    The next day, Ophelia received a message from Cody. Those people worked quickly and had already begun following her solution to settle the slum residents.


    The sick were provided with medical care, the elderly were ced temporarily in nursing homes, children were sent to welfare centers, and healthy adults were given jobs and housing solutions.


    In the morning, Ophelia went to the designpany and met Chloe.


    Chloe had learned from Noah what had happened since they began finding the poison bug, so she didn''t ask more questions.


    "I haven''t congratted you on your marriage yet. Here''s a wedding gift Wyatt chose for you," said Chloe.


    It was a pair of super etre little dinosaur keychains.


    JK 84%Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    One of the little dinosaurs had an arrogant expression, much like Keh'' demeanor, while the other was blushing, looking adorably sweet.


    Thanks, please thank Wyatt for me and tell him I love it," Ophelia epted it dly.


    She organized the documents on the desk and handed them to Chloc.


    ''Chloe, here''s thepany''s development n, and some evening gowns I designed in my spare time. Additionally, I''ve bought the apartment that you and Wyatt live in, and it''s now yours. I wanted to buy you a bigger house, but my resources were limited." Chloe looked serious and didn''t take it..


    "Elia, you..."


    Her words just now sounded like a goodbye.


    "Thank you, Chloe. I know what you''re going to ask, and yes. I''ve made up my mind. Just in case..." She chuckled softly, her expression remained rxed.


    She didn''t hope for such a ''what if, but she always prepared for the worst.


    She also had to be ountable for the people of the


    Company.


    "There''s one more thing I might need your help with."


    It was about the redevelopment project in the slums.


    She had already handed over the construction blueprints and detailed ns to Cody and his team. With additional personnel sent by Keh to assist, and as long as things go normally, the slum can be developed smoothly. However, if any tough decisions needed to be made, or if there was a need to support the interests of the people in the slum, someone would need to step in and offer help.


    "Don''t worry, Elia. Your concerns are my concerns," Chloe assured.


    The redevelopment of the slums wasn''t something she could handle on her own.


    Chloe wanted to say more, but when she met Ophelia''s determined gaze, she fell silent.


    Not a word of persuasion could leave her lips.


    Emotion was such a thing that could only be understood by those who had gone through them. She was just like that at that time.


    She just hoped Mr. Sinir''s surgery would go well, and that Elia would return safely.

 Jilted Bride 332

    Before Ophelia left thepany, she called in Marilyn and handed her a car key. "This is for you. You''ve worked hard this past year."


    "Huh? Ophelia, I... I can''t take this," said Marilyn.


    She was content with her current job. Holding such a respected position in the industry, with an excellent sry and benefits, she can''t ept a car worth tens of thousands of dors "There''s no reason you shouldn''t ept it. You''ve earned it." Most of thepany''s design and innovation were her work, so Marilyn deserved it. "Besides, I need you to do me a favor." "Shoot, Ophelia."


    Ophelia pulled out a car purchase order. "Could you help me out by picking up a car? Just deliver it to Mr. Thompson at the Sinir Group."


    "Mr. Thompson from the Sinir Group?" Marilyn''s eyes widened.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Marilyn shook her head. Those high-powered executives like Mark kind of scared her.


    Anyway, it was just about delivering a car to him. It was not like Mark was going to give her a hard time.


    "Sure thing, Ophelia. Don''t worry."


    Ophelia gave her Mark''s number. It seemed like they might need Mark''s help a lot in the future.


    After leaving the office, Ophelia went to Scott''s school.


    She checked on how Scott was doing at school; he was performing excellently.


    The school was letting them y basketball to rx since the SAT was approaching.


    Scott wore a white summer uniform, his short hair neatly cropped. He seemed to have grown taller and looked more robust than before.


    Holding a basketball, he worked seamlessly with his teammates, driving to the hoop.


    When he made a shot, cheers erupted all around.


    During halftime, girls offered him drinks and towels to wipe his sweat.


    Seeing him living a normal life now and making friends, Ophelia felt at ease.


    After watching silently for a while, she left.


    She visited the entertainmentpany she had set up for Scott and also stopped by James''pany.


    With Love as My Cause was about to be scheduled, and Rex, along with Thomas, was following thepany''s lead and promoting outside. James was busy preparing for a new drama, and Kevin was now his trusted screenwriter.


    "Your setting is too clich¨¦." James'' voice came from the office.


    "Get lost, stop bothering me, Kevin tore a page from the script, rumpled it, and tossed it to the floor, where it ended up at Ophelia''s feet.


    Ophelia crouched down, picked it up, and opened it to take a look inside.


    "Isn''t this setting quite good?" Ophelia''s voice softly drifted in from the doorway.


    The two middle-aged men simultaneously turned to look.


    "Elia," Kevin adjusted the ck-framed sses on his nose.


    Seeing Ophelia, James'' expression changed drastically. "Yeah, I also think the setting is good, but the background doesn''t match modern tastes."


    "No, it''s just that your taste is outdated," said Kevin.


    This setting was the direction where future major IPs were headed; Kevin''s ideas had always been ahead of the curve.


    With someone supporting him, Kevin immediately straightened up.


    "See? You can''t go wrong listening to Elia." Kevin lifted his head proudly.


    James could only agree helplessly.


    "Kevin, remember to always stick to your ideas. Don''t let anyone sway you. Be yourself and write the stories you want to write." In the future, Kevin will be the best screenwriter. "Yeah, yeah, I''m that ''someone else. With you backing me up, how could I dare make any moves..." James pretended to be upset as he replied sarcastically.


    But when Ophelia finished her sentence, Kevin''s eyes narrowed behind his sses as he assessed her in front of him.


    He felt Elia''s expression was strange.


    "Elia, is something wrong?" Kevin asked, which sounded like a random question to James.


    Ophelia smiled slightly. "Nope, I just don''t want you to get bullied."


    In the past, Kevin was always bullied because he was honest.


    "Oh, are you saying I''m the suspect here? Would I dare bully him? His temper has been getting worse, and as his boss, I have to tread lightly," James joked.


    Eliaughed along, while Kevin still looked worriedly at Elia.


    "Are you sure nothing''s wrong?" asked Kevin.


    "Oh, and Kevin, I''ve got some good news. The slum redevelopment has started," she added.


    "Really?" Kevin''s eyes lit up with excitement.


    Kevin knew Elia was the best; whatever she said woulde true.


    "Where''s Elia? Has she arrived yet?" Sharon appeared at thepany entrance, looking around eagerly. As soon as she heard Elia had arrived, she rushed over to see her. Visiting James''pany felt just like being at home now.


    "Sharon, you haven''t even finished your makeup yet."


    +5)


    "Sharon, slow down a bit." Two young assistants followed her, one on each side.


    Seeing Ophelia, Sharon dashed towards her like the wind, giving her a huge bear hug.


    "Elia, I''ve missed you so much." said Sharon.


    Ophelia let her hug her. "Okay, okay, why are you acting more and more like a kid these days?"


    There wasn''t any trace of Sharon she used to know.


    "Sharon is like a child now that she''s got someone doting on her the assistant giggled, covering her mouth.


    84%


    +6


    Just then, Thomas returned from his promotional work outside. He first went to the studio next door to catch a glimpse of his wife, but when he was told she wasn''t there, he quickly hurried over there. "Hello, Ms. Spencer," he greeted Ophelia and then immediately turned his full attention to Sharon, "Honey, why are you wearing such high heels?"


    "Are these that high? They were not even 330 feet high."


    "You shouldn''t be wearing heels this high now." Thomas gently reminded her, "Please, change out of them for me."


    Ophelia raised her eyebrows and thought, ''Why can''t she... huh?


    She nced at Sharon''s curvy figure, her eyes resting on the slightly rounded belly that wasn''t very noticeable yet. She seemed to get it.


    Sharon looked a bit shy. "Hehe... it''s not even three months yet."


    Thomas kept silent and scratched the back of his head, feeling a bit shy.


    These two were moving fast.


    Ophelia was somewhat impressed by Thomas.


    There were countless tricky men in the world, but Thomas was the kind who seemed honest on the outside but was full of schemes, gradually "winning over" Sharon. Luckily, he had used his sincerity to care for what he had "won over" all these years.


    Watching Sharon being spoiled like a kid now, Ophelia was truly happy for her.


    "Elia, the dress you helped me pickst time is arriving soon. I''ll try it on, and you can tell me how it looks. Do you want toe to the film festival with us tonight?" asked Sharon. Ophelia was about to answer when sudden, hurried footsteps came from the doorway.


    "Sis. Sis. Sis. Sis. Sis..." Rex dashed over like a bolt of lightning, arms wide open.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Thomas quickly moved Sharon to the side to make sure she wouldn''t get bumped by ident.


    "Sis, howe you didn''t tell me you wereing?" asked Rex.


    Ophelia frowned and took two steps back, reaching out her hand to block the person, keeping him half a meter away.

 Jilted Bride 333

    Chapter 333 0 84%


    Rex looked all sad with his head down and a helpless expression "Sis, you have no idea what I''ve been throughtely. Can''t youfort me a bit?"


    He wouldn''t go through a hard time. In the entertainment circle, no one dared to mess with Rex.


    But seeing his pitiful look, Ophelia reluctantly lowered her hand "Alright, shoot, what''s up?"


    Rex pouted, his lips downturned, looking up at the sky and wailing. "I want to quit the showbiz, boohoo..."


    He looked just like a husky that couldn''t reach its treat.


    Rex kept sneaking nces, hoping to see Ophelia''s surprised reaction and ask him the underlying reason.


    However, Ophelia stayed as calm as ever, with not a flicker of emotion on her face. "Your acting has gotten better than before."


    "Sis, aren''t you curious about the reason?" Rex looked hurt.


    He felt himself insignificant.


    "What''s there to be curious about? It''s bound to happen sooner orter. You''ll have to go back to inherit the family business, right?" said Ophelia. The answer to this question was all there to see.


    Rex wasn''t young anymore. With Henry as the head of the Reyes family, it was natural to groom him to take over.


    If this reckless behavior continued, the Reyes family''s business would fall into someone else''s hands.


    Rex sighed, and for once, his usual tyrant demeanor showed a look of deep sorrow and resentment.


    Yeah, once he went back, he wouldn''t have as much freedom.


    "Hey, Elia, do you want to join us at the film festival tonight?" asked Rex.


    Ophelia nced at the time. She initially wanted to refuse, but when she saw the hopeful expressions around her, she hesitated. "Okay." Ophelia nodded.


    But she needed to inform Keh first.


    Keh on the other end gave a low chuckle. "Same rules, how long?"


    Ophelia was lost for words. "What do you mean by how long?


    "It has been such a long time that she nearly forgets the rules he had previously set.


    "But today isn''t the weekend.


    "She tries to negotiate, but Keh on the other end is firm.


    "But you''re supposed to be with me, right?"


    Keh'' voice sounded a bit pitiful, as if he felt abandoned.


    Ophelia took a deep breath, thinking she couldn''t manage a few hours.


    "Three, three hours then..." She aimed to return to the Rosewood Manor by ten.


    "Alright." Keh smirked, a gleam of satisfaction flickered behind his sses.


    But he quickly hid it, put down the phone, and resumed his meeting with the top executives.


    84%


    Mark was leading the meeting. He had been in charge of managing thepany recently and was more focused than usual.


    Having been working with Mr. Sinir for so long, he has naturally adopted his decisive way of handling matters. He now exuded authority, earning respect in the corporate group. But that was only on the surface.


    After the meeting ended and the sky outside had grown dark, Mark organized the documents. Once he confirmed Mr. Sinir had no other requests, he finally rxed.


    He pulled out his phone and saw two missed calls and one text message.


    Marilyn: [Hello Mr. Thompson, my name is Marilyn. Ophelia sent me over.]


    The message had been sent two hours earlier. Mark looked at the number and thought, ''Does Mrs. Sinir set me up on a blind date?''


    He had kept the girl waiting for so long.


    He quickly called back.


    In a caf¨¦ across from the Sinir Group, Marilyn had ordered a cup of coffee. She was slumped over the table, deeply asleep, her drool glistening at the corner of her mouth, causing passersby to nce at her more than once. The sudden vibration of her phone made her jump.


    She nced at the phone, quickly fixed her hair, wiped the drool, and answered. "Hello, hello... Mr. Thompson..."


    "Sorry, I was just in a meeting," said Mark.


    "Oh, no, it''s fine. I, I just woke up...no, I mean, I just got here..." She didn''t know how long she slept.


    She nced at the caf¨¦''s clock. It had been quite a while.


    "I''m at the caf¨¦ downstairs; Ophelia asked me to give you..."


    "Got it, just hold on a second." Mark hung up the phone, still feeling a bit nervous with the documents in his hand.


    It was his first blind date, and he had kept the girl waiting for over two hours. He thought of doing something to make up for


    1. it.


    While he was thinking, he noticed through the ss reflection that his tie was crooked and quickly straightened it.


    Hair was fine...


    He tidied up a bit just as Keh passed by the door and gave him an expressionless look.


    "Join me for a couple of drinks tonight," said Keh.


    "Huh?" Mark snapped back to reality when he heard Keh'' words.


    "What ''huh? I said jout me for a couple of drinks tonight," Keh repeated, casting a cold gaze his way. What was with that look? It was not like he was giving him work to do. "Or do you have other ns?" Mark pursed his lips. "Well, it''s that... um, Mrs. Sinir introduced me to a girlfriend. Mr. Sinir, it''s rare for me to have a personal matter..."


    Keh, not being unreasonable, said, "Alright, then tomorrow it is."


    "Thanks, Mr. Sinir. I''ll head off then." Mark draped his jacket over his arm and jogged toward the elevator, worried that Mr. Sinir who was not normally agreeable might change his rind any minute. After getting downstairs, he nced at the caf¨¦ across the street and then at a nearby flower shop. He trotted over, nning to buy a bouquet.


    A red rose seemed too much for a first meeting, so after a while, he decided on a bunch of champagne roses.


    As he walked to the coffee shop with flowers in his hand, he adjusted his tie once more.


    Before he could look for anyone, he heard amotion at the checkout area.


    "This expensive? Didn''t you say the minimum spend here was forty dors? Isn''t this coffee enough? Why are you charging me an extra one hundred and fifty dors?"


    She shouldn''t have consumed in this store if she thought forty dors was already expensive for a coffee.


    The waitress behind the counter smiled politely, but her eyes showed a strong sense of disdain.


    "Miss, we charge for upying the space. You were sleeping there for so long, not only taking up space but also impacting our high-end coffee brand. Charging you one hundred and fifty dors is already very cheap." The whole conversation was filled with a sense of superiority, looking down on someone who seemed out of ce.


    Marilyn looked at the bill in her hand, her pretty, doll-like face crumbling. "But you never mentioned any fee for upying space before."


    The waitress chuckled softly, her scornful expression barely concealed, while people around looked at Marilyn with strange


    gazes.


    "Miss, do you even know where you are? This is downtown, right across from the Sinir Group. This caf¨¦ is a Mgia brand, and Mr. Sinir buys his coffee here every day. Is this a ce for you to just sleep?" Her tone was like scolding a stray dog.


    Marilyn looked down in embarrassment; she didn''t mean to fall asleep.


    Pouting slightly at her bad luck and about to pay, someone suddenly stopped her by cing a hand on hers.


    "I didn''t know Mr. Sinir gets his coffee from your ce every day?" said the person.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.

 Jilted Bride 334

    Keh spoke with a serious tone, exuding an aura that said "Keep your distance


    The waitress behind the bar immediately changed her attitudepletely, knowing very well who the man in front of her


    wal


    "Mr. Thompson, I didn''t mean i that way, the waitress said, lowering her head. She was embarrassed at being called out in public and shot a sharp look at the girl in front of the counter.


    It was all because of her.


    "Mr. Thompson, you have no idea it''s all this girl''s fault. She''s here taking our seat for free. This ce is a hub for business professionals, not someone like her who can''t even pay for a seat. And now you''ve walked into this whole mess." Looking at Marilyn, she added, "This is a luxury brand coffee from Mgia, so next time, know your ce and don''te here if you can''t afford it."


    She wanted to get her out as soon as possible.


    Marilyn was fuming, but because of her tearful disposition, she wasn''t good at arguing. Her pretty face flushed red, but she couldn''t say a single word through her tears.


    "Is any brand from Mgia that impressive? Or do you just think you''re superior to everyone else?" Mark retorted.


    This caf¨¦ wouldn''t even exist here if the Sinir Group hadn''t approved it.


    Marilyn looked up at him.


    Mark nodded slightly at her and handed over the bouquet he was holding.


    Marilyn was taken aback, and before she could react, she found a bouquet of champagne roses with pearls in her arms.


    "I''ll pay for it," Mark said seriously as he took out his phone to make the payment.


    The waitress was confused, ncing again at Marilyn. How could someone like her possibly know someone as important as Mr. Thompson?


    "Oh,e on. Mr. Thompson, you don''t have to be so kind..." The waitress looked jealously at Marilyn.


    What a maniptor! She was arguing just a moment ago, and the moment Mr. Thompson showed up, she yed the pity card to gain sympathy. It was disgusting.


    Mark, with an expressionless face, scanned his phone to pay and said coldly, "This is my friend, and ces like yours that judge people unfairly aren''t worth visiting anymore."


    As the payment went through, Mark said these words in a chilly tone. The waitress couldn''t believe her ears. She couldn''t believe Mark said those words.


    She was so terrified that her face turned pale and her legs felt weak. Just then, the manager came down from upstairs and happened to hear the end of Mark''s remark. Everyone needed to know that, in Denex, and even across Heloria, Keh'' word wasw. So when Mark spoke, it was like Keh himself saying it.


    "Mr. Thompson, there seems to be some misunderstanding," the manager quickly said with a forced smile.


    "There is no misunderstanding," Mark never wasted words on unimportant people. He turned to Marilyn and said, "Let''s go."


    With that, he walked away with Marilyn


    As they walked out of the coffee shop, the sound of the manager scolding the waitress could still be heard.


    3


    Marilyn nced back, and when she looked at Mark again, she felt even more frightened, not daring to breathe deeply. Mr., Mr. Thompson, herr are your flowers. Marilyn handed them over and casually took out her phone. "I''ll transfer the money to you." "No need, and the flowers are for you. I''m sorry for keeping you waiting so long," Mark said.


    Marilyn looked at the flowers in her hands and fell deep in thought. She didn''t understand why he give her flowers. But, maybe someone high-ss like him just got a new car and was in a good mood-it was weird to give her flowers.


    So she replied, "It''s alright. I just came here because Ophelia asked me..."


    "Did Mrs. Sinir tell you everything?" Mark seemed a bit nervous, swallowing hard.


    Marilyn nodded. "Yes, she said you liked it."


    Mark was lost for words and thought, ''Does Mrs. Sinir know what type I like?''


    £¤5


    He looked at the girl in front of him-a doll-like face with pretty, blinking charming eyes, and a charming dimple appeared when she smiled.


    When he met the girl''s gaze, Mark suddenly felt shy.


    His ears turned red.


    He said, "Then let me take you out for a meal... we can have a good chat."


    Marilyn looked at Mark with confusion. She thought, ''Does it have to be soplicated? Just for a chat?''


    Maybe he wanted to understand the steps and details about getting his car.


    She said, "Uh, okay... sure."


    It was in a high-end restaurant.


    Marilyn was visiting a ce like this for the first time. She followed Mark while holding a bouquet. They were led by a waiter to a table by the window.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    After ordering, Mark ced his hands on the table, with his fingers crossed.


    and my "Mrs. Sinir might not know much about me. She probably just told you the basics. I don''t have a mother, works for the Sinir family. He''s busy and barely gets a break." He needed to mention the awkward part first. father


    Marilyn nodded, half-understanding. "Oh, I get it, especially with you in that position."


    This feeling was kind of strange.


    After she finished speaking, she nced at Mark opposite her, and her mouth twitched slightly.


    Just as she was about to take the car purchase documents and keys from her bag, Mark said, "This is my first time on a blind date, so I don''t have much experience. Is there anything else you want to know...?" "Huh? Blind date?" Marilyn''s voice rose, sounding especially loud in the quiet, elegant setting.


    TH


    10:36 Sat, Dec 14 G PE


    She nced around in embarrassment and quickly shrank back to make herself less noticeable.


    84%


    "What, what did you say? Blind date? I, I''m here to deliver your car." Marilyn couldn''t afford to waste a second and quickly handed over the documents and car keys. She was stammering as she spoke.


    When Mark saw the pair of pale hands offering him the car documents and keys, he was taken aback.


    This was just too embarrassing.


    He wished he could find a hole to crawl into, but managed to stayposed on the outside as he took them, coughing into his fist a couple of times.


    "Oh, I made a mistake." His voice was calm.


    Marilyn gave a forcedugh. "No, no problem. Let me just return these flowers to you. I wouldn''t want to interfere with your date. My job here is done, so I''ll be on my way." Mark frowned slightly. "The flowers are for you. I apologize for making you wait so long. Please sit and join me for a meal. Thanks for taking care of my car."


    "No, no need to thank me. I just did what Ophelia asked." Marilyn was about to pick up her bag and stand up.


    Mark said, "Sit down."


    Marilyn froze and sat back down, carefully looking at Mark across from her, with her heart beating nervously.


    Mark met her eyes and swallowed awkwardly. He thought, ''Am I that intimidating?''


    She seemed quite scared of him.


    "I''m going to the restroom." Mark stood up.


    Marilyn sat in her seat and said "Oh", not daring to move.


    Mark tugged at his tie and exhaled deeply. Standing in front of the bathroom mirror, he thought for a while before calling Ophelia.


    The phone rang twice before it was picked up.


    "Mrs...." Mark was about to say something.


    Ophelia knew what he was going to ask, and before he could even get the question out, she exined, "I asked Mara to bring the car over to you. "She doesn''t have a boyfriend. The opportunity is yours. Whether you can take it or not is up to you."


    Before Mark could say anything, she hung up.


    The film festival here was about to start.

 Jilted Bride 335

    Ophelia put away her phone and heard two voices talking at the entrance.


    "I don''t know how Sharon got so lucky. That movie she was inst year got her nominated alongside you, Carmen, our beloved actress. It''s ridiculous."


    "This year''s Best Actress award is going to you, Carmen."


    Two lesser-known actresses bantered back and forth, dripping with


    envy and resentment.


    This year, Sharon not only had a lead role in a major film but appeared in a high-budget TV series with excellent ratings.


    with Thomas, attracting a lot of fans. Naturally, she became a target of Her fame rose along with the official announcement jealousy.


    Ophelia nced over. The actress was called Carmen. Back then when Sharon was still unknown and ying supporting roles, Carmen had already participated in two or three major films. However, she never won, any awards. It seemed she was a newly signed artist at SN Entertainment.


    She recalled hearing about her when the person in charge mentioned her in a work report.


    She didn''t take part in their operations, and only a handful of people were aware of her presence.


    Carmen was wearing a limited edition designer gown, with her face detailed with delicate makeup, and a subtle smile ying on her lips. Yet, a hint of jealousy shed in her eyes. Ophelia withdrew her gaze and, following the seat number given by James, she sat down in the front row.


    While the others were still taking turns on the red carpet for photos, she took her seat alone.


    Not being part of the industry, she had hired professionals to manage her entertainmentpany. Sitting there alone, she drew curious nces from passersby.


    She wasn''t wearing a gown, just in a simple outfit she chose for the day, looking more like a staff member. However, her aura was different.


    "Who is that? Why is she sitting here?"


    "Doesn''t she know the rules?"


    "Yeah. Not just anyone can sit in the front row."


    At that moment, Carmen walked over, slightly lifting her gown, and sat down next to Ophelia.


    She


    gave


    the girl next to her an once-over.


    Even without a fancy dress but with a face free of makeup, she still shone while sitting there. Her features were pure and stunning, without any hint of menace, but yet she exuded an intimidating presence. Her natural charisma made everyone around her seem less noticeable, putting immense pressure on those sitting near her.


    Carmen forced a slight smile and said, "You''re sitting in Rex'' spot, aren''t you?"


    Some actors or actresses found out in advance who they''d be sitting next to, making it easier tomunicate and avoid sitting near someone with a simr acting style or past conflicts. Ophelia was aware of this, but the seat number she received was exactly that.


    Seeing she gave no reaction, Carmen snorted, surprised to meet someone like this. "Didn''t you hear me talking to you?"


    "I''m not sitting in your seat," Ophelia said, lifting her eyelids to meet her gaze.


    Those eyes, clear andotionless, yet somehow gave off an intimidating vibe.


    Carmen went silent at her words, sitting down angrily and immediately messaging her agent on WhatsApp.


    84%


    +6


    Wasn''t she supposed to sit next to Rex? She signed up with SN Entertainment to get closer to him, but months passed without a chance to meet him. Just when she thought she had an opportunity, someone unknown grabbed the seat next to her.


    Two junior actresses who had been trailing behind Carmen quickly adjusted to her mood. "Did she do it on purpose? Is she trying to grab Rex'' attention by taking his seat?"


    "Let her stay there. Everyone knows Rex is famous for having a short fuse in the industry. Just wait for the fireworks."


    "Haha..." theyughed.


    Their seats were further back, but they kept their eyes fixed on this spot.


    Carmen thought the same, as her agent confirmed again that there was nost-minute change to her neighboring seat.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    He cast an even more disdainful nce at the girl beside her.


    She didn''t know her ce.


    Not long after, Rex took a group photo at the entrance and, after signing in, walked over with confident strides.


    Usually, his style was pretty shy, but now he was wearing a high-end tailored suit that highlighted his great physique. His strikingly handsome face could easily outshine anyone in the entertainment industry.


    His charming eyes sparkled with a happy smile, hinting at a good mood.


    Carmen''s gaze never left Rex. She''d heard he came from a wealthy family, and if she could marry him, it would be like marrying into wealth.


    Everyone around who heard themotion was waiting for some drama.


    Carmen stood up to greet him. "Hi Rex, we''re from the samepany..." Just as she raised her hand, Rex walked right past her.


    Her hand, adorned with long manicured nails, was left awkwardly hanging in the air.


    Carmen''s face showed clear disappointment. She clenched her palm and watched as Rex headed straight toward Ophelia.


    "Rex, she''s in your seat. I was just trying to help you..."


    Before she could finish, everyone was watching over, expecting Rex to lose his temper.


    That didn''t happen. Instead, Rex looked like a big puppy, with eyes shining. "Sister, it''s great that I could sit next to you."


    His voice was adorably childish.


    Carmen was stunned and thought, ''Sis?''


    Everyone else was also in disbelief.


    That was when someone remembered that Rex had a sister. He even personally posted on Twitter before to speak up for


    her.


    Those with phones immediately searched for that Twitter post.


    So it was her.


    Carmen couldn''t believe it, with her eyes wide in disbelief. She regretted what she had done.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Jilted Bride 336

    The gossip around them was getting louder. The two minor actresses who were waiting to see a joke had their smiles frozen.


    They quickly shrank back to their seats in the back, too scared to say anything.


    Carmen was grinding her teeth.


    She rushed forward, hoping to say something to make things right, but Rex turned and looked at her. His unbelievably handsome face made her heart skip a beat. "What did you just say?" Rex asked.


    Carmen was taken aback, so nervous that she swallowed hard. "I didn''t say anything..."


    "Oh, it''s not important. Go sit in the back. I need to sit next to my sister." In front of so many people, Rex didn''t care about embarrassing Carmen at all.


    He simply plopped down right in her seat.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Propping hfs chin on one hand, he stared unblinkingly at his sister.


    His sister was so beautiful in his


    eyes.


    Ophelia turned her head, feeling like Rex was about to lean in too close.


    She nced at Carmen, who was still standing. "Isn''t this a bit much?"


    "I had the organizers set her up with a spot. You can sit anywhere in the back row," Rex replied casually.


    Carmen''s perfect makeup was almost twisted with anger. She stood off to the side, clutching her skirt so tightly that her nails dug into her skin without her noticing.


    The seats around were gradually filling up. Kevin came over and sat down, leaving two empty seats in between.


    Thomas led Sharon over, with cameras all around them


    Seeing Sharon, Carmen''s anger burned even more. Watching how popr Sharon was, a sinister look shed in her eyes.


    "Elia." Sharon let go of Thomas''s arm and happily went over to greet Ophelia.


    Suddenly, a foot stuck out from under a dress.


    Sharon didn''t notice the foot at all and stumbled forward, unable to react in time.


    "Watch out!" Thomas attempted to reach out to catch her, but his hands only caught air.


    Ophelia immediately stood up as a cushion to catch Sharon before she hit the ground.


    and rushed over, acti


    Sharon instinctively protected her stomach as she crashed heavily onto Ophelia.


    Ophelianded on her back, with a shock running through her chest, and her face turned pale with pain.


    Thomas and Rex quickly stepped forward, helping the two off the ground.


    "Are you okay? Do you feel any difort?" Thomas'' face was even paler than Sharon''s, with his voice trembling with


    concern.


    M


    153 Sun, Dec 13


    Sharon shook her head and immediately went to check on Elia Elia, are you okay?"


    "I''m fine." Her eyes fell on Carmen:


    Seeing his sister had been wronged, Rex immediately got defensive, ring at Carmen. "What the heck is your probleme You think you can pick on my people and get away with it? You''re asking for trouble." A fight broke out at the film festival.


    People in the back rows craned their necks to see what was happening.


    Carmen just wanted Sharon to trip and embarrass herself, making the news the next day, but she never expected Rex'' sister to step in and help.


    "1-1 didn''t mean it. I really didn''t mean it," she said.


    "Do you think I''m blind? You didn''t mean it? You practically have on purpose'' written on your face." Rex was furious, practically brimming with anger, and if she hadn''t been a woman, he would''ve already thrown a punch.


    ''I really didn''t mean it. She tried to help, and what''s that got to do with me? I just wanted Sharon to make a fool of herself, so why did she interfere?'' Carmen thought. ''You''re insane.''


    Carmen nced sideways at the people next to her, not daring to voice herints.


    At that moment, Carmen''s agent hurried over to break things up not wanting her to suffer. As he approached, he saw Ophelia.


    He thought, ''Isn''t that the boss?''


    "Boss," he said.


    Carmen waspletely shocked, ncing at Fred and then at Ophelia, unable toe to her senses for a long time.


    Suddenly, something connected in her mind as she thought about her rtionship with Rex. Rex, being a privileged kid, had signed a contract with SN Entertainment, and now she finally got it. But it was toote. "Fred, what did you say? This is..." Carmen said.


    This was their boss.


    Ophelia frowned slightly, nodding to the agent Fred. She never cared about what others thought of her, even if they were rude, but...


    She would not allow the people around her to be bullied.


    If she hadn''t acted as a cushion for Sharon just now, the fall would have been much harsher.


    Sharon was pregnant. Ophelia couldn''t stand the incident.


    "Terminate the contract," she said.


    Hearing these words, Carmen felt a deep regret for her actions.


    Fred looked at his boss. Having spent so much time in the entertainment circle, he could easily read the situation. "Don''t worry, Boss. I''ll have the termination contract prepared." "Alright," Ophelia replied calmly.


    The incident quickly spread online, and someone even took pictures of Carmen intentionally trying to trip Sharon. The title


    11:53 Sun Dec 15 DG.


    Chapers 350


    of "Queen of Actrendy''t even been awarded for people already siding with stron


    Some people even dug up stories of Carmen''s par des behavior


    Terminating the contract on sferegring it with SN Entertaiment only hurt her future career prospects


    She brought this on herself.


    This small incident didn''t stop the film festival from starting asedated


    The award presenters on age were James and a veteran actreeshe had coborated with before, and both of them were held in high esteem in the entertainment industry


    The initial awards were minor, leading up to thepetition for Best Actress and Best Actor


    "Nominated for Best Actress at this year''s Denex Internations Film Festival are Fuller Justin, the leadingdy from North and South, Carmen Stosur, the leadingdy from Forgiveness, and Sharon Campbell, the leadingdy from On a Snowy Day Clips from the three movies started ying on the big screen.


    Sharon nervously swallowed, cing her hands on herp. She wore a shimmering champagne strapless evening gown, with her hair elegantly tied back.


    While she nervously rubbed her thighs, Ophelia and Thomas, sitting beside her, each took one of her hands.


    Don''t be nervous," they both said in unison.


    Sharon took a deep breath, nced at Ophelia, and nodded at her.


    Thomas thought, ''As expected, wherever Ophelia is, there''s no ce for me.


    "And the Best Actress of this year''s Denex International Film Festival is... Sharon Campbell from ''On a Snowy Day.


    As the announcement ended, the camera zoomed in on Sharon''s face.


    Sharon took a deep breath, with excitement in her eyes as she looked at Ophelia. She lifted the hem of her dress and walked past the girl.


    Ophelia''s gaze followed her closely.


    Watching her stand on the dazzling stage, Ophelia felt incrediblyforted.


    Sharon stood at the front of the stage with a trophy in hand, with tears filling her eyes.


    "Sharon, is there anything you''d like to say?"


    Sharon started with some formal words, and then looked down at Ophelia. Her eyes became moist again, sparkling under the stage lights. The person who was once always grumpy now smiled like a carefree child.


    Scenes from the past shed through her mind.


    They first met at the designpetition, supporting one another all the way.


    If she hadn''t met Elia, she wouldn''t be here today.


    "Today, I''m standing here to especially thank someone who came into my world like a beam of light, brightening the


    otherwise gloomy first part of my life," Sharon said.


    As she spoke, the camera focused on Thomas, who couldn''t help but sit up straight.


    "Without her, I wouldn''t be who I am today. Thank you, Elia," she continued.


    It was Elia, not Thomas,


    Thomas knew exactly who she was thanking and subtly raised an eyebrow.


    Ophelia heard it clearly too.


    However, the people on and off the stage assumed she was thanking Thomas.


    After the award ceremony concluded, there was a closing event where all nominated and winning actors and actresses gathered on stage for a group photo. Watching Sharon shine on stage alongside Thomas, James, and Rex.


    They all stood on the brilliantly lit stage, with their smiles beaming.


    Ophelia''s lips turned up into a smile along with theirs.


    "Kevin, I''m heading out now," Ophelia said.


    "Elia..." Kevin called to her, with his eyes behind dark lenses fixed on the girl''s eyes. "Elia, No matter what you do, I''m here for you. I will support you unconditionally." "Alright, thanks, Kevin. Just remember what I said," Ophelia kept smiling, though her eyes seemed to say a silent goodbye.


    To the pleasant tune of music, Ophelia walked away from the event.


    By the time she returned to Rosewood Manor, it was already eleven, an hourter than expected.


    As soon as she stepped inside, she saw a tall figure sitting on the sofa ying video games with his long fingers wrapped around the game controller.

 Jilted Bride 337

    hapter 337


    The massive LCD TV resounded with the sounds of battle.


    "Bang bang..." Gunshots sted from the speakers, sounding almost real as if they were whizzing past her ears.


    ''Does he turn up the volume out of anger?'' thought Lisa.


    Lisa came out of the kitchen, carefully walked up to Ophelia, and handed her a pair of slippers from the nearby shoe rack.


    She said, "Miss, Mr. Sinir has been ying games all night."


    Sure enough, he was upset.


    Ophelia put on her slippers, went around to the man''s back, and wrapped her arms around his neck like a gentle kitten. Her nose gently nudged and rubbed against his neck. "Hubby..." The girl''s voice was sweet, as sweet as honey.


    It waspletely different from her distant demeanor when outside.


    Keh ignored her and turned off the game. The screen went ck and reflected his cold, handsome face. He carelessly tossed the game controller onto the gray marble coffee table. Ophelia said, "Honey, are you angry? I''m sorry I came homete


    She didn''t expect the film festival tost so long. Beyond the awards, there were various song performances and other


    events.


    She kept checking the time.


    Keh didn''t say a word, gently moved her smooth, pale arms aside, and went straight upstairs.


    Ophelia didn''t dare toin. She followed him and wrapped her arm around his. "Honey, tonight... can we just do whatever you want?"


    This seemed the only way to calm him now.


    Keh was unfazed, not even blinking an eye.


    His deep, blue eyes revealed no emotion.


    She continued, "Didn''t we agree before? No silent treatments, right? If something''s bothering you, just tell me, You decide how to solve it, and I''ll do what you say."


    Keh paused at the bedroom door on the third floor, turned his head slightly, and pressed his thin lips together, looking like he wanted to speak but couldn''t find the words. Finally, he stayed quiet. Seeing his expression, Ophelia felt a jolt in her heart and fixed her eyes on his sharp, intense gaze.


    She thought, ''What''s wrong? Could it be...?"


    "Are you feeling sick?" After asking, her heart leaped into her throat, and she felt as if all the warmth had left her hands and feet.


    She was terrified that something might go wrong now, so close to the surgery.


    Keh frowned deeply, with his gaze steady, and his hands by his sides clenched and released repeatedly.


    ¦£


    The muscles in his sharp-featured jaw twitched slightly.


    He suddenly turned, pulled the girl in front of him, and pressed her firmly against the door.


    Ophelia turned pale. She''d already fallen earlier tonight, and being shoved against the door by him now felt like it was shaking her to her very core.


    "What''s going on, Kennic...?" She felt there was something off about Keh today.


    Keh let out a coldugh. "Do you think of me as a patient now? Think I can''t do anything? I don''t need your pity."


    Keh didn''t want others to treat him as a patient.


    That instinctive feeling that there might be something wrong with his body was very unsettling.


    He was a normal person, not a patient.


    "I... do you think I''m feeling sorry for you?" Ophelia asked.


    Keh straightened up, "Ophelia, I''m giving you one more chance. I can still have our marriage registration erased from the records..


    Ophelia replied, "I don''t need it. I don''t want those chances, even if you gave me a thousand. I want to be your wife." As the words left her mouth, Ophelia suddenly realized something. Her heart felt like it was tightly gripped, and for a moment, she could hardly breathe. She was wrong. She shouldn''t have left him alone at Rosewood Manor for so long.


    As the surgery date drew near, Keh'' nerves were undoubtedly stretched tight.


    Even the slightest sensitive remark could easily break through the thin barrier he''d built around his heart.


    He would overthink, he would worry, and he would struggle.


    He had never felt secure.


    Ophelia said, "Kennie, I''m sorry. I should''ve been there for you all along."


    Before the surgery, she should have been by his side. Even if there were matters to deal with, she should have returned


    sooner.


    While she was away, he must have envisioned countless scenarios in his mind, tearing himself apart and piecing himself back together repeatedly.


    That was why he spoke those words to push her away once more.


    Ophelia stepped forward, holding his cold hand with one of hers, while her other hand touched his chiseled cheek, with her eyes meeting his bloodshot gaze.


    "Kennie, you''re just unwell, and that''s all. Even if you''re sick, my love for you won''t lessen a bit. I love Keh, the good and the bad, everything about you..." Keh stared intently into her eyes, having never been chosen so decisively before.


    "Elja... Keh''s fingers brushed through her long hair, with his thumb gently stroking her cheek.


    He called her name hoarsely, over and over, as if only by doing so could he be sure of her presence and feel secure.


    <


    He was afraid.


    They were all afraid.


    But she was ready to face everything.


    In this life, she lived only for Keh.


    Ophelia stood on her tiptoes, mimicking his usual manner, and slowly kissed his lips.


    She was slowly savoring.


    This time, she took the initiative.


    Her slender, fair fingers unbuttoned his cor, but as soon as she undid one button, his hand caught hers.


    B


    78%


    "You said it yourself," Keh said, with his voice slightly raspy from not speaking for a while, but the unease in his tone had already faded.


    "What?" Ophelia looked up, with her eyes filled with a clear, water-like purity.


    "You''ll do what I say," he murmured.


    She didn''t remember saying that.


    She had said so many things, but he only remember that one sentence.


    "You said you''ll do what I say. Don''t take it back, Elia..." Thest words rolled off his tongue seductively, making her heart tremble,pletely different from just now.


    Keh caused a scene like this just for...


    "Four hours..."


    Four hours of what? Ophelia watched him warily, with her hands suddenly trembling.


    She stepped back half a step, with her back pressed tightly against the door.


    Keh curved his lips into a mischievous smile and turned the doorknob.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Ophelia, unsteady on her feet, leaned backward. Just as she was about to lose her bnce, the man''s strong arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her snugly into his embrace. "Where did that boldness go, hmm?" Keh pressed close to her delicate ear, with his teeth gently grazing it.


    Keh could always find her most sensitive spots. Just a touch and her whole body went limp.


    Keh gently but firmly steered her onto the bed.


    His hands, warming up, brushed over her back, holding her securely. Through the thin summer fabric, he gradually traced the curves of her softness.


    His kiss on her lips became deeper and lingered.


    As he hugged her tightly, a sharp pain surged through her back.


    "Ouch..." Ophelia couldn''t help but suck in a cold breath.


    With dim light falling on her face, Keh paused his actions.

 Jilted Bride 338

    Before Ophelia could respond, Keh had already started moving.


    There was arge, deep purple bruise below the girl''s shoulder de, probably from when she caught Sharon and bumped against the steps.


    Keh furrowed his brow, and the intention in his eyes gradually faded.


    He asked, "What happened?"


    His voice was already coated with ayer of frost.


    "There was a bit of a situation tonight." She recounted what happened and caught the man''s concerned look, quickly exining, "It''s nothing. It doesn''t hurt."


    She pulled her shirt back on over her head and tidied her hair.


    A sly look shed in Ophelia''s pretty eyes, like a little fox.


    It was impossible not to hurt.


    Howe? Keh frowned even more.


    He said nothing, got off the bed, and carried her to the bathroom.


    The sound of running water started.


    Keh helped her bathe as if caring for a child. Despite sighing and frowning, his actions were still gentle.


    Ophelia watched him with pursed lips, thinking he''d be a great dad one day.


    "What are you smiling about?" Keh''s tone was firm,cking patience, but his eyes remained gentle.


    Ophelia raised an eyebrow. "The reason I ran out today is because Sharon is pregnant, almost three months. Time flies, doesn''t it? There was no sign of it when I visited the film set after New Year." Keh was applying body wash when histher-covered hands paused. He thought, ''Is she implying something to me?''


    "No." His tone was calm and serious.


    Ophelia was taken aback, looking at him through the mist.


    She didn''t mean it. She just wanted to share something happy with him. But since the topic came up, she wanted to explore it further.This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    "After your surgery is done, aren''t we nning to have a baby too?" she asked.


    Keh lowered his gaze, with his warm hands full of thick bubbles.


    She had some faint scars from before, nearly blending in with her skin, barely noticeable.


    AX


    "Maybe," Keh replied.


    He couldn''t make her any promises now, but if things improved, he would do whatever she asked.


    Ophelia brushed off the topic. "Let me help you."


    Ei


    Keh gave her a cold look "No need."


    It wasn''t necessary to torture him in this way.


    After a shower, Ophelia sat at the vanity in a white robe, looking at Keh behind her in the mirror.


    He was carefully drying her long, wet hair.


    He picked up the hairdryer and dried her hair meticulously.


    The warm air spread from the top of her head, casing away her weariness.


    The blow-dry made her feel somewhat sleepy, and her eyes were barely open.


    Once her hair was dry, drowsiness slowly overcame her, and she didn''t even remember how she ended up in bed.


    Holding the sleeping girl in his arms, Keh let out a long breath. His fingers tangled in her hair, with the scent of her shampoo and body wash lingering at his nose.


    He just watched her, with his gaze soft and tender.


    The next morning, Ophelia woke up nestled in the man''s arms, with her head peeking out from his chest.


    Keh'' eyes suddenly snapped open, as sharp and vignt as a beast''s.


    "Awake?" the man''s voice was slightly husky.


    "Yeah." In the early morning, Ophelia''s voice was soft and sweet. Her sleepy eyes stared at Keh silhouetted against the light. His features were deep and chiseled, catching a glint of light that cast a gentle glow on his cheek. "How did you sleep?" he asked.


    Next to him, she naturally slept soundly.


    "Mm-hmm." A soft, tender sound escaped her lips.


    But in the next second, she realized what he meant by the question.


    "I... didn''t sleep well," she said.


    "Heh..." Keh chuckled, with his voice as pleasant as a cello melody.


    "Four hours... that''s what you promised mest night." Suddenly, his voice didn''t sound so pleasant.


    "Keh, are you a devil." she cried.


    Four hours, it would kill her. Couldn''t he have just said it outright instead of beating around the bush? Kehughed instead of getting angry, and his smile was truly charming.


    "Keh, my back hurts..." Ophelia said.


    "I already applied ointment on youst night," Keh replied.


    After she fell asleep, he massaged her with Tiger Balm.


    Huh? She moved a little, and sure enough, it didn''t hurt anymore. Chapter 338


    No wonder she had caught faint scent of Tiger Balm.


    "Anything else you want to say?" Keh looked at her intently!


    "I''m... I''m hungry..." Ophelia said.


    "I''ll make you some noodles in a bit." He would cook them himself.


    Not giving her a chance to speak further, Keh continued what they hadn''t finishedst night.


    By the time they were done, it was almost noon.


    Ophelia picked up her phone and saw two missed calls from Cody.


    Before she could call back, the phone rang again.


    "Boss, there''s a bit of a problem with relocating the slum residents."


    "What''s happening?" Her voice was a bit hoarse.


    "It''s not going smoothly. The slum residents don''t trust politicians and are refusing to cooperate."


    "Alright, I get it," sighed Ophelia.


    After hanging up, Ophelia looked serious. She had expected this to happen.


    Noticing a tense atmosphere in the room, she looked up to see Keh standing at the doorway with a bowl of noodles.


    "Are you going back to work?" he asked.


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