Chapter 388 “Don Juan?” Dustin’s lips twitched in disbelief. What was going on? Why did he get labeled as a playboy just for applying some medication to his patient? “Ms. Harmon, there’s a misunderstanding here. He’s in fact applying the medication to my injuries. “Dahlia could not suppress a tiny smile at the jealousy on Natasha’s face. “Well, if you don’t trust my words, there’s nothing I can do about it.” Then, she slowly put on her clothes with a taunting look in her eyes. “Hmph! I need some medication too!” Natasha sat down beside Dustin and started unbuttoning her clothes. “Hey, what are you doing!” Shocked, he immediately stopped her. She gave him a look of displeasure. “What? You can apply medication for her, but not for me?” “That’s because you’re not hurt!” Dustin was helpless in the face of the young lady from a wealthy family who was acting like a child. “Who said so? I am hurt in the heart, and it’s much worse than what she’s going through! Just touch it, and you’ll know!” A defiant Natasha puffed her chest, inviting him to touch it. “Dustin, I feel some pain in the back. Can you apply more medication to it?” Dahlia did not back down and took off her top once more. However, Dustin was suffering from a raging headache in the face of the two difficult beauties. They had always been passive–aggressive with each other every time they crossed paths, and it was tough to pacify them. “Caitlyn! Help them out! I’ll get lunch ready!” His eyes lit up at the sight of his trusty assistant, and he grabbed the groceries from her hands and slid into the kitchen. One way of avoiding trouble was by escaping the scene. “Hmph!” The women glared at each other and put on their clothes, finally putting the animosity to a temporary rest. After a busy time in the kitchen, he served everyone a sumptuous lunch. It was a four–course dish with soup that smelled good and tasted equally great. “Dear, have some grilled ribs. Look at you–you lost some weight!” Smiling, Natasha placed a piece of rib on his plate. He cautiously thanked her and quickly stuffed it into his mouth with a smile. “What’s good about ribs? You should try some chicken Alfredo. I know you like this the best.” Dahlia, not backing down, placed the chicken on his plate. “Grilled ribs are better, in my opinion. They’re succulent and chewy at the same time. Great texture!” While speaking, Natasha put a second piece of rib on Dustin’s plate. “To each his own! Dustin never gets tired of chicken Alfredo. You can’t compare it to ribs.” Dahlia flashed a faint smile and piled a piece of chicken on the growing hill of food on Dustin’s plate. “Ribs are better!” “The chicken Alfredo is nicer!” 1/2 “Ribs!” “Chicken!” The women kept piling food on his plate while squabbling with barely concealed hostility. Soon, the lunch he prepared was gone, all going into his plate that was overflowing with food. He did not know where to get started. Meanwhile, Caitlyn stared at the fight before her helplessly. She wanted to take her share of the meat, but she lost the chance to do so. “Dustin, my darling, is the chicken or rib better?” After the fight, the women turned their sharp gazes onto him and directed the question to him. The scene was like deja vu, but this time, it was more frightening. “They’re both great!” He flashed a bitter smile and answered. “No! You can only pick one!” They glared at him with a threatening air.
Chapter 387 “How dare you lay a finger on Madam Gloria? You crossed the line!” The elderly servants standing around were taken aback when they saw that Gloria had been slapped. Enraged, they flung themselves at Dustin and attacked him. “A bunch of rude bitches!” Dustin’s expression hardened, and he slapped the elderly servants out of his way without a word. Some fainted on the spot, some were bleeding from their noses and mouths, and some lost their teeth, Within a blink of an eye, those who assaulted Dahlia were lying on the floor, immobile. “Dustin Rhys, how dare you hit us? You’re asking for trouble!” Dakota stood up, albeit staggering, with a look of menace and resentment on her face. She was the daughter of a wealthy family, and her grandma was one of the heads of the Nicholson Family. A good–for–nothing like Dustin had beaten them up–he clearly didn’t know his place! “Not only am I beating you up, but I will also cripple you!” Dustin gave Dakota a heavy kick in the abdomen, sending her flying in the air into a wall, screaming in pain and bleeding from the mouth. “You animal! You’re dead meat! Your entire family is in deep shit! How dare you hurt the Nicholsons? We’ll make you pay for that!” Gloria, who got up from the floor, hissed evilly at Dustin. No one had the audacity to lay a finger on her in many years. This young man had some balls! “Make me pay? Oh, you don’t have the right to.” He slapped her on the face again, and this time, her nose and mouth were hit, and even her fake tooth fell off. Almost instantly, she started convulsing and foaming at the mouth. “Dustin, don’t hurt them!” Seeing that, Dahlia jumped in to stop him. She was worried that he might accidentally kill Madam Gloria in a fit. “How are you feeling?” Dustin reined in his temper and helped her up from the floor. “I only suffered from a few external injuries. It’s nothing.” She forced a smile at him. “Your face is swollen. How is this ‘nothing‘?” Frowning, he looked sulky, and the more he thought about the situation, the angrier he became, knowing they had been taken advantage of. His temper rose, and he stomped hard on Dakota’s face. Her decent–looking face was instantly horrifically ruined and bruised. Dustin finally felt satisfied and pleased after taking the appropriate revenge. “I didn’t know you were so vindictive.” Although Dahlia was speechless at the scene, she couldn’t help but feel joy in her heart. It felt good to have someone avenging her. “If you don’t teach these rude bitches a lesson, they will never learn.” He looked cross. “Beating Dakota up is fine. But you also beat up the elderly, Madam Gloria. I’m worried that we can’t get ourselves out of this.” After the initial joy, she was burdened by new worries. “I don’t care. If they want revenge, they can come at me.” Dustin sounded fearless. “She’s an insolent and disrespectful old hag. If I didn’t slap her today, she would’ve really thought she was above everyone else.” With that, he took the check from Gloria’s pocket and left the villa with Dahlia. 1/3 Soon after, Gloria stirred awake, still lying on the ground. She was greeted by the mess in the room. Touching her swollen and red face, she bellowed with eyes bulging from anger, “That animal! I will tear both of them into pieces!” Next, she called a number on her phone. “Hey! Get Tarragon and Cougar here! We’re executing the house law!” When they got back to the Peaceful Medical Center, Dustin immediately took out a tube of medication that he started applying to Dahlia’s skin. Dakota and the elderly servants did not go easy on Dahlia at all. The poor victim was covered in bruises on her face, limbs, and across her body. He dared not imagine the outcome had he not intervened in time. “Dahlia, do you want to learn a few moves from me? At least, you’ll have some skills to defend yourself if you ever run into this kind of situation,” Dustin suggested while applying the ointment. Her fair skin was as soft as silk to the touch. “I’m not interested in fighting and killing. And I have you to protect me!” She smiled at him softly. In her opinion, one could not solve problems with violence–that would only lead to more trouble. At the end of the day, an individual would only be powerful because of his or her connections and influence, not their martial arts skills. Many of the big bosses were bad at fighting, but their existence was enough to stop anyone from stirring up trouble. The top dogs garnered respect because of their reputation and influence. “I’d rather rely on myself. I am only truly strong because I train myself to be.” He shook his head. ” Take off your clothes. I need to apply the medication to your back.” “Huh?” Her expression froze with awkwardness. “Um, maybe get Caitlyn to help out on this?” “She’s out getting groceries. I’m not asking you to strip naked. Why do you make it sound like I’m taking advantage of you?” He rolled his eyes at her. “Okay then.” She pursed her lips and slowly took off her top to display the lovely curves of her back. Her milky skin was a sight to behold, a rare beauty indeed. Dustin regained his composure and applied the medication to the bruises on her back. Then, he gave her a slow and soft massage. “Ouch…” He seemed to have touched a sore area as she frowned and inhaled deeply. “Just bear with it. I’ll be done in a while.” During the massage, he channeled some internal energy to clear up the blood clots. Soon, she felt the pain in her back go away, and her body was basking in a comfortable and warm sensation. “Dear! I’m here!” They heard a singsong voice from the entrance. In the next moment, they found themselves staring blankly at Natasha and Caitlyn, who were standing quietly at the door with the fresh groceries in their hands. “I saw nothing!” Caitlyn covered her face and turned around, her cheeks flushed in embarrassment. “What are you doing?” Natasha’s expression hardened, and her eyes filled with accusation. She was looking at a man and a woman in a room. The woman was stripped down to her Chapter 387 undergarments, and the man was running his hand all over her. It looked suspicious no matter what. “Ahem, please ignore that. Dahlia has been injured, and I was applying some medication for her,” Dustin hastily explained himself, but he felt oddly guilty in doing so. “Applying medication?” Natasha was green in envy as she scanned Dahlia from head to toe. “And does she need to take off her clothes for that? Do you need to sit close to each other? Look at you- you can’t even take your hands off her!” “Eh?” Dustin turned around and saw his hands on Dahlia, and he immediately retracted his hands in shock. He believed his intention was pure, but why did he feel guilty after Natasha’s interrogation? “Caitlyn, come take a look. I look like the bad guy now, don’t I?” Natasha asked with a straight face. “Um, what? What’s going on?” Caitlyn was taken aback and baffled. “Can’t you see? I’ve become a cuckquean!” Natasha crossed her arms over her chest and scoffed. Hmph! Dustin Rhys, why don’t you change your name instead? You should call yourself–Don Juan!” 1
Chapter 386 “Madam Gloria, you need to be fair. What you’re doing now is intentionally setting me up to fail!” Dahlia had a sour expression on her face. No sane person would sit still after being robbed of one billion dollars. “Shut up! Where are your manners when you’re speaking to my grandma? You should know your place!” Dakota yelled at Dahlia. “You need to pay up for what you’ve done. Dustin lashed out at people, and he should rightly pay for that. This is enough. I’ll be upfront with you. If you pull another one billion dollars, I’ll make you the chairman. If you can’t, you should get lost.” Gloria waved impatiently in a confident manner, as though she had Dahlia in her grip. “Why are you still standing there? Get lost now!” Dakota urged Dahlia to leave. However, before leaving, Dahlia said, “Madam Gloria, since you’re being unfair, I will report this to the patriarch and make him the judge of this case.” “Stop right there!” With a sullen face, Gloria bellowed, “You rascal! How dare you threaten me? The audacity! Someone give her a slap!” “On it!” Dakota sneered and gave Dahlia two slaps on the face, leaving two clear marks on the cheeks. Dahlia cradled her face in shock and anger. “Why? Are you dissatisfied? Slap her two more times!” Gloria roared. “Yes, Madam!” Dakota slapped Dahlia hard on the face, twice. She had long harbored resentment for Dahlia, the countryside girl with good looks. Dahlia bit her lips but did not say a word. Instead, she stared straight at Gloria. “Is she still stubborn? Slap her harder!” Gloria was incensed at the defiant look in Dahlia’s eyes. Not many in the family had the guts to go up against her. “Beat her up!” Dakota got two elderly servants to beat and kick Dahlia. Within minutes, the poor girl was badly scratched on the face and suffered from bruises all across her body. “You shameless thing! How dare you talk back to my grandma? I’ll teach you a lesson today!” Dakota released her pent–up anger by hitting and cursing Dahlia. As a member of the direct line of descent, she was jealous at how Dahlia was chosen to be a candidate for the heir position instead. How could a country bumpkin and lowly slut outshine her in terms of looks and grace? “Stop right there!” When Dakota and the rest of the women were in the middle of the assault, they heard an angry call coming from the entrance. “Who’s yelling at our place?” Dakota looked up and was about to give the intruder a dressing down. But what greeted her was a hard kick in the face. She yelped helplessly and was thrown a good three feet away. Not only was her nose bent out of shape, but she also lost her front teeth. Her facial structure was slightly affected because of the injuries. “Dustin Rhys! It’s you again! You animal!” Gloria’s anger reached its peak at the sight of Dustin. She rose up and attempted to hit him with her walking stick. “Get lost!” Dustin slapped Gloria across the face, sending her collapsing onto the ground.
Chapter 385 A Mercedes–Benz rolled to a stop in front of a villa with a great riverside view. “Dahlia, I won’t go with you. I splashed tea on Madam Gloria yesterday. I bet she won’t be glad to see me.” Dustin chuckled. “That’s fine. Wait for me here. I’ll be back soon.” Dahlia gave him a firm nod and marched into the villa alone. At that time, Gloria was having her tea leisurely, with Dakota seated right beside her, massaging her shoulders and legs with great care. “Madam, Dahlia asks to meet you.” An elderly lady came up and announced respectfully. “Why is she here? Is she begging for mercy because she knows that she’s incapable?” Dakota sounded puzzled. Gloria put her teacup on the table and replied calmly, “Let her in.” “Yes, Madam.” The elderly servant shuffled away and led Dahlia into the villa. “You have something to ask from me?” Gloria looked up at the sudden visitor. “Madam Gloria, I have completed your request. Here’s a check for one billion dollars. Please take a look.” While speaking, Dahlia handed Gloria the check. “A check of one billion? Are you joking?” Dakota snatched the check away, but her expression fell when she saw the figure on it. “T–there’s a billion here!” “Let me have a look.” Gloria took the check and examined it. Her face scrunched up in displeasure. “Dahlia, it’s only been a day. Where did you get the money from?” Gloria had looked into them and knew that Dahlia’s family was incapable of getting a billion dollars worth of investment in such a short timeframe. There was something fishy going on. “You don’t have to be concerned about that. I have my connections.” Dahlia refused to offer a detailed explanation. “Hmph! The Nicholson Family has always been upright and honest! If your money comes from a dirty source, it will not be counted!” Gloria reminded her coldly. “That’s right! Who knows? The money might have come from a robbery or theft! If you don’t offer a clear explanation, we won’t let you off the hook!” Dakota echoed Gloria’s words. “If you are dying to know, I shall tell you the truth. Dustin borrowed the money.” Dahlia did not bother to hide the fact from them. “Dustin?” Dakota was first perplexed, followed by a look of disdain. “Oh, Dahlia, you have to make up a better lie than that! The good–for–nothing, Dustin Rhys, can never get his hands on a billion’s worth of investments!” “Believe it or not, it’s up to you. At the end of the day, we got the money you asked for,” Dahlia remarked calmly. “Sure, you did. But it’s not enough,” Gloria suddenly said. After the initial shock from the check, Chapter 384 Florence was practically glowing with a level of enthusiasm unseen before. “It’s alright. I’m not hungry.” Dustin shook his head. This was the first time he received such warm treatment from Florence in his three years of marriage, and he wondered if that was the power of money. “Mom, you should go get the groceries. I need to go somewhere with Dustin, and we’ll come home for a meal later,” Dahlia suddenly suggested. “Where are you going?” Florence questioned. “Of course, we’re on our way to make Madam Gloria fulfill her promise. We now have a billion dollars worth of investments. They have nothing to say, even if they’re unwilling to make me the chairman!” Dahlia smiled brightly. “Okay! Go now and have that chairman position secured!” Florence urged her daughter to leave with excitement. Once Dahlia secured the position as the chairman of Cardinal Group, she would be one step closer to becoming the head of the Nicholson Family, and the rest of them would be elevated to a higher status as a result too. Chapter 385 A Mercedes–Benz rolled to a stop in front of a villa with a great riverside view. “Dahlia, I won’t go with you. I splashed tea on Madam Gloria yesterday. I bet she won’t be glad to see me.” Dustin chuckled. “That’s fine. Wait for me here. I’ll be back soon.” Dahlia gave him a firm nod and marched into the villa alone. At that time, Gloria was having her tea leisurely, with Dakota seated right beside her, massaging her shoulders and legs with great care. “Madam, Dahlia asks to meet you.” An elderly lady came up and announced respectfully. “Why is she here? Is she begging for mercy because she knows that she’s incapable?” Dakota sounded puzzled. Gloria put her teacup on the table and replied calmly, “Let her in.” “Yes, Madam.” The elderly servant shuffled away and led Dahlia into the villa. “You have something to ask from me?” Gloria looked up at the sudden visitor. “Madam Gloria, I have completed your request. Here’s a check for one billion dollars. Please take a look.” While speaking, Dahlia handed Gloria the check. “A check of one billion? Are you joking?” Dakota snatched the check away, but her expression fell when she saw the figure on it. “T–there’s a billion here!” “Let me have a look.” Gloria took the check and examined it. Her face scrunched up in displeasure. “Dahlia, it’s only been a day. Where did you get the money from?” Gloria had looked into them and knew that Dahlia’s family was incapable of getting a billion dollars worth of investment in such a short timeframe. There was something fishy going on. “You don’t have to be concerned about that. I have my connections.” Dahlia refused to offer a detailed explanation. “Hmph! The Nicholson Family has always been upright and honest! If your money comes from a dirty source, it will not be counted!” Gloria reminded her coldly. “That’s right! Who knows? The money might have come from a robbery or theft! If you don’t offer a clear explanation, we won’t let you off the hook!” Dakota echoed Gloria’s words.
Chapter 384 “Natasha Harmon! What’s wrong with you? Who gave you the green light to call off the marriage?” Once Jayla left, Jessica finally unleashed her temper. The marriage concerned the fate of their family, and she would not allow Natasha to do as she wished. “Natasha, do you know how lucky you are to be able to marry Tyler Grant? What are you doing? Calling off the marriage?” Quentin felt like he was staring at a fool. Tyler Grant was the cream of the crop of the Southern province, and the hope of Dragonmarsh. Before he hit thirty, he had been appointed as a general who led tens of thousands of men. Young and talented, he was deemed the best bachelor, and women fell on his feet in admiration. To their dismay, Natasha had no interest in Tyler at all, which everyone thought was dumb. “I will have the final say in my marriage. I have no feelings for Tyler, and I won’t marry him,” she replied calmly. In the past, she would have accepted an arranged marriage in the interest of the Harmon Family, especially when Tyler was an impeccable candidate in terms of family background, talent, and potential. He was literally perfect. She would meet everyone’s expectations by marrying Tyler, but now, she only had eyes for Dustin. “You can develop your feelings for him over time. No matter what, you’re marrying him!” Jessica declared firmly. “This is the only way you’ll be happy, and we will be safe. If you call off the marriage, you’ll put your family in trouble!” “Right, Natasha! You better not forget about the existence of the Dark Lord. He’s a looming threat to our family. Without the Grant Family’s backing, the Dark Lord might come for us at any time!” Quentin warned her sternly. But she replied with a frown, “I will think of a way to deal with the Dark Lord.” “Deal with him? How?! It’s been ten years. Every year, one of us Harmons would be killed for no good reason. Even after your dad and your uncle hired experts and gave their best efforts, they have no way to stop the Dark Lord, so what makes you think you can take him down?” Jessica retorted. “Give me some time. I can do it.” Natasha had a determined look in her eyes. Jessica shook her head. “There’s no time. In seven days, Tyler will show up at our annual family gathering to ask for your hand in marriage. If you turn him down, our family might as well be ruined.” Natasha fell into a heavy silence. She only had seven days left, and she had no idea what her fate would be if she could not come up with a solution. Meanwhile, Dustin was at the Nicholson Villa, where he handed Dahlia a check. “Here you go. These are the investments I got for you.” “Investments?” She took a better look and froze up. “O–one billion dollars? Where did you get that money from?” “I have a friend who works at a bank. I got him to issue me an interest–free loan. This will tide you 1/3 Chapter 384 over,” Dustin explained. Technically, he wasn’t lying because Roderick Brooks indeed owned a few private banks. “When did you have a friend in the bank?” Dahlia looked at him curiously. The friend practically lost out on the deal if it was an interest–free loan, and that was a pretty huge favor for Dustin to return. “I’m a doctor, after all. I save lives all day, so it’s not weird for me to make friends along the way.” He shrugged. “That’s true.” She nodded and beamed at the sight of the check in her hands. “I have to say, you really helped me a lot this time. With this one billion check, I will secure my position as the chairman of Cardinal Group.” “A billion–dollar check? What are you talking about?” Florence and James wandered into the room at that moment. “Mom, look at this!” Dahlia handed Florence the check. The latter was overjoyed when she saw the figure on the check. “D–d–did I see wrongly? This is a check worth one billion!” “One billion?” James‘ eyes bulged in shock. He had never seen that insane amount of money in his life. “How’s that? It’s a surprise, isn’t it? Dustin brought me the check,” Dahlia showed off proudly. “Dustin?” Florence furrowed her brows and examined him from head to toe with doubt. “Are you sure he’s capable of this? Is the check a fake?” “Of course not. I verified it multiple times. It’s a real check!” Dahlia looked serious. “This can’t be right! He’s dirt poor. Since when is he loaded?” James remained suspicious. “I might be poor, but I have a couple of rich friends. If you don’t trust me, just hand the check back to me.” Dustin gestured for the check. “We trust you! Of course, we do!” Florence hurriedly stuffed the check into her pocket and squeezed a smile at him. “Oh, Dustin, you’ve changed in such a short time! I never thought you’d have a billionaire friend! When are you going to introduce him to us?” An extra connection would open up paths. A man who could lend a billion dollars in one go was definitely someone remarkable. If the Nicholsons could get on his good side, they would benefit immensely from this relationship in the future. James protested with displeasure, “Mom, are you seriously falling for all his garbage?” “You’re the garbage!” Florence spat at him and gave him a good slap on the back of her head. She chided him, “You little brat! Watch your manners when you speak to your brother–in–law! Speak nicely!” “Huh?” James was caught off–guard by the sudden change in his mom’s attitude. She had been haughtily pointing fingers at Dustin, but in a matter of seconds, she was smiling and groveling at him. James thought, “It’s shocking how she changes in a blink of an eye! What a skill!” “Dustin, are you hungry? Do you want me to cook you some food? By the way, don’t forget to share the contact details of that friend with me. I need to ask him for advice on personal finance matters. 2/3 Chapter 384 “Florence was practically glowing with a level of enthusiasm unseen before. “It’s alright. I’m not hungry.” Dustin shook his head. This was the first time he received such warm treatment from Florence in his three years of marriage, and he wondered if that was the
Chapter 383 Everyone stood in shock at her words. No one could believe Natasha dared say that. “Natasha? What nonsense are you spouting? Are you sleep talking?!” Jessica gave her a look. Natasha said calmly, “I’m fully awake, and I am well aware of what I just said. It is regrettable, but I need to express my feelings today. Tyler and I are unsuited for each other.” “Natasha, what do you mean by this?” Jayla’s brow knitted. A slightly uneasy feeling crept up within her. “I’m backing out of this marriage.” Just like that, Natasha dropped the bomb. “You’re backing out?” Jayla’s expression darkened at her words. She snapped at her. “Natasha Harmon, are you insane?! How dare you break off a union with the Grants? The audacity!” Jessica warned, “Natasha, stop your nonsense. You can’t say those things lightly!” The Grant family was part of the Tremendous Three. Whether it was their connections or their legacy, the Grants surpassed the Harmons in every aspect. Especially with Tyler, the exceptional genius, at the helm, the Grant family had been elevated to unparalleled heights. It wouldn’t be too far off to say that they were very close to becoming the strongest among the Tremendous Three. Many affluent families could only dream of having an association with the Grant family. However, Natasha wanted to back out of the marriage instead. It was like slapping the Grants in the face. “I am indeed the party at fault in this situation. I sincerely apologize. If you think this will deal a blow to your reputation, you can be the one to make the announcement. I’ll take the blame. In any case, I will never marry Tyler,” Natasha spoke calmly with a resolute gaze. “Natasha Harmon, do you think you are the one who calls the shots here? Who do you think you are? This union is a joint decision between both families. You are not worthy of giving your opinion!” Jayla erupted in a fury. Natasha responded coldly, “I can comply with everything else the family arranges, but marriage is out of the question!” “Hah! I don’t think you understand the situation. You should be honored that my brother is interested in you! As for calling off this marriage, your opinion doesn’t matter. My brother is the one who calls the shots!” Jayla glared at her. “Then, kindly inform your brother to call off the marriage.” “Dream on!” Jayla refused immediately. “My brother always gets what he wants. It doesn’t matter if you agree to it or not. This wedding is going ahead as planned!” “I will not marry Tyler.” Natasha shook her head again. She refused to destroy her chance at happiness for a marriage of convenience. “Natasha, as the daughter of a prominent family, you should be aware that there are certain matters beyond your control. You should think about the entire Harmon family, not just yourself. If you dare to break off this marriage, you will be making an enemy out of the Grants! “Even if my brother won’t touch you, your enemies will definitely not let you go easily. They have 1/2 restrained themselves thus far because of our support. How long do you think your family can last without our protection? I recall that your father is in conflict with the Dark Lord. Without my brother, do you think you guys can fend him off by yourselves? “Think carefully about it! In seven days, we will be attending the Harmons‘ annual family gathering. Whether we end up friends or foes depends entirely on your decision! “We’re leaving.” After leaving them with those harsh words, Jayla stormed off with her entourage.
Chapter 382 The next day, back at Swinton, a convoy of luxury cars drove into Park Palace in a grandiose display. As their procession moved through the streets, it left a lasting impression of power and splendor. By the entrance, the entire Harmon family had been waiting, with Jessica in the lead. As the vehicles came to a stop, Jayla, who was dressed in luxurious clothing, was the first to disembark with an arrogant look on her face. “Jayla, you’re here! Please, come in.” Jessica greeted her with a smile and a welcoming attitude. The person she was greeting was Tyler’s sister. Her standing among the entire Grant family was not to be taken lightly. Jayla nodded in response. “Jessica, long time no see. Where’s Natasha? Why don’t I see her?” “She’s inside getting ready. She won’t take much longer,” Jessica explained with a smile. “Jayla, I prepared something for you when I found out you were visiting. Have a look.” At that moment, Quentin, who was standing beside them, took out a sapphire the size of an egg and passed it to her with both hands. Jayla was not only gorgeous, but she also came from a powerful family. That was why he knew she was the best match for him. Naturally, he wouldn’t give up the chance to leave a good impression. It was his belief that every woman was weak against jewelry. Jayla glanced at it. “Thanks.” However, instead of receiving it herself, she had the maid take it and put it away. “Uh…” As he took in her disinterested look, the corners of his mouth twitched. He purchased that sapphire from some Amberson woman for more than a hundred million dollars. He had spent quite a fortune to impress the gorgeous woman and was aggrieved at her reaction. “I should have gotten something cheaper,” Quentin silently mumbled. “Jayla, tea is almost ready. Let’s head in first.” Jessica smoothed things over and invited the entourage inside. After they took their seats, she asked, “Jayla, may I know what brings you to Swinton this time? “Jessica, in truth, I’m here regarding my brother’s wedding.” She drank a sip of tea and continued, According to the marriage agreement, there are around 20 days left before the union between the Harmons and the Grants. I’m just wondering how the preparations are going.” “There is no need to worry. The Harmons‘ annual family gathering will be in a few days. We’ll be making arrangements during the gathering,” Jessica replied with a smile. “That would be the best.” Jayla nodded and changed the subject. “However, I’ve been hearing rumors lately that Natasha has a boyfriend. I wonder if they are true.” Jessica’s expression froze slightly with her words before she dismissed the idea with a wave of her hand. “That’s not true, of course. You shouldn’t listen to gossip like that. Besides, who could compare to your brother in the entire seven provinces of Balerno? “That’s good to hear. You should be aware that my brother is deeply devoted to Natasha, and he 1/2 Chapter 382 also has strict principles and doesn’t tolerate betrayals. With his personality, if he heard about the rumors, there’s no guarantee how he would retaliate.” Her words carried a hint of threat as she warned. “Please don’t worry. It is inevitable for our families to come together. I have faith the wedding will be held according to schedule.” Jessica smiled assuringly. “Great!” Jayla raised her brows. “My brother will be back in two days. He will also be personally attending the Harmons‘ annual gathering to ask for the bride’s hand. I’m here to inform you of this in advance.” “No problem. We will make all the necessary arrangements.” Jessica nodded with a smile. While they were talking, Natasha, who had finally finished getting ready, walked out of her bedroom. “Natasha, you’re here. Sit down. We were just discussing your marriage with Tyler-” Natasha raised her hand and interrupted her. “I heard everything. Jayla, my apologies in advance. I’m afraid we won’t be able to go through with this marriage.”
Chapter 381 “Why? Just why!” Jayla burned with jealousy. If she had known the gemstone was hiding a priceless treasure, she would never have sold it. In the end, it ended up in the hands of a country bumpkin! What a loss! “What a turn of events. This is such a blessing!” Dustin held the Flower of Crimson Gem up in one hand, the corner of his lips curling up into a wide smile. From the moment he laid eyes on the gemstone, he knew it was hiding something exceptional. Just as he expected, he had discovered a true treasure. The Flower of Crimson Gem was not an ordinary flower. It was an extremely rare treasure. Typically, it could only be found in red gemstones. And it just so happened that the red gemstone on auction today was a Crimson Gem. Previously, he felt regretful thinking about the 900–year green lotus. However, the appearance of the Flower of Crimson Gem came as a blessing and a happy surprise. At least he didn’t travel all the way here for nothing. “Ms. Grant, don’t you think a price of two billion dollars is extremely worth it for this precious item?” He turned to look at her and flashed a smile. “Should I say you’re the true idiot here?” “You…” Jayla was rendered speechless. The vicious words she had thrown out earlier at them were now directed at herself. She had spent three billion to purchase a subpar item, while Dustin had paid a mere two billion in exchange for an invaluable treasure. The stark difference was maddening! “Ms. Grant, thank you for the treasure. We shall meet again soon.” Dustin smiled and prepared to leave. “Hold it!” Jayla suddenly called out to him. “Did I say you could leave?” “Hmm? Are you going to treat us to a meal?” Dustin smiled teasingly. “Stop talking back. I’m taking that Flower of Crimson Gem! Name your price!” She demanded angrily. Naturally, she wasn’t going to give up such a rare gem. Dustin refused her outright. “I’m sorry, I’m not selling it. “Not selling?” Jayla scoffed coldly. “Let me tell you honestly. Since I want it, you are selling that treasure to me no matter what.” Dustin raised his eyebrows. “Oh? Since when has that been the law?” “Shut up! My words are the law!” She glared at him. “Don’t paint me as a bully. Since you spent two billion to purchase it, I’ll buy it back from you for two billion! You won’t incur any losses!” “And if I don’t?” Dustin smiled. Did she take him for an idiot? He was to resell a two–billion–dollar purchase for two billion dollars? “Then you’ll bear the consequences!” Jayla threatened. The Flower of Crimson Gem would be able to elevate her brother’s martial arts prowess to another level. That was the reason she needed to obtain it, even if that meant putting down her dignity. “It’s a priceless treasure! It’s definitely a priceless treasure!” “Damn it, that punk spent a mere two billion for a Flower of Crimson Gem. Lucky bastard!” The crowd looked at the Flower of Crimson Gem with tremendous greed and envy, like a beggar who chanced upon gold. A few daring individuals had even started concocting a plan secretly. “Flower of Crimson Gem? How is that possible?” Jayla was dumbfounded as she looked on in disbelief. A Flower of Crimson Gem was an extremely rare treasure that could only be chanced upon once in a blue moon. It was much more valuable than a thousand–year green lotus. Who would have thought she could encounter it in a place like this? At the heart of the matter, the Grant family was the one who discovered that red gemstone, and she had delivered it personally to the auction house. In other words, she had given away that priceless treasure! The realization left her feeling light–headed. “Why? Just why!” Jayla burned with jealousy. If she had known the gemstone was hiding a priceless treasure, she would never have sold it. In the end, it ended up in the hands of a country bumpkin! What a loss! “What a turn of events. This is such a blessing!” Dustin held the Flower of Crimson Gem up in one hand, the corner of his lips curling up into a wide smile. From the moment he laid eyes on the gemstone, he knew it was hiding something exceptional. Just as he expected, he had discovered a true treasure. The Flower of Crimson Gem was not an ordinary flower. It was an extremely rare treasure. Typically, it could only be found in red gemstones. And it just so happened that the red gemstone on auction today was a Crimson Gem. Previously, he felt regretful thinking about the 900–year green lotus. However, the appearance of the Flower of Crimson Gem came as a blessing and a happy surprise. At least he didn’t travel all the way here for nothing. “Ms. Grant, don’t you think a price of two billion dollars is extremely worth it for this precious item?” He turned to look at her and flashed a smile. “Should I say you’re the true idiot here?” “You…” Jayla was rendered speechless. The vicious words she had thrown out earlier at them were now directed at herself. She had spent three billion to purchase a subpar item, while Dustin had paid a mere two billion in exchange for an invaluable treasure. The stark difference was maddening! “Ms. Grant, thank you for the treasure. We shall meet again soon.” Dustin smiled and prepared to leave. “Hold it!” Jayla suddenly called out to him. “Did I say you could leave?”
Chapter 380 “That’s right. Only people like you would foolishly spend two billion on a red gemstone like that.” “I like to call them rich airheads.” The crowd pointed and murmured, gossiping among themselves. It seemed to them that Dustin was a prime example of a stubborn man who couldn’t accept defeat. It was clear that he had suffered a loss but was still trying to show off without merit. “Do you hear that? I’m not the only one who thinks you’re an idiot. Everyone else thinks the same.” Her lips curled up into a smirk. “Really?” Dustin smiled faintly. “It seems like no one has realized this is not an ordinary red gemstone. It’s an extremely rare Crimson Gem.” “What’s a Crimson Gem? I’ve never heard of it.” Jayla pursed her lips in disdain. “That’s fine. Allow me to enlighten you today.” As he said that, he smashed the gemstone with his palm. Everyone present heard two cracking noises as two visible crack lines formed on the surface. In the blink of an eye, the cracks spread across the whole gemstone. His actions ignited a frenzy among the crowd. “That’s insane! That punk’s gone insane!” “Even if he incurred a loss, that was no reason to destroy the gemstone!” “Ms. Grant was right. He’s an idiot!” The crowd was filled with astonishment and regret as they voiced their disapproval and admonishment. They recognized that it was still a remarkable treasure, and it was such a waste for him to destroy it like that. Jayla was initially taken aback, but soon, she couldn’t stop howling in laughter. “Hey! Did you get water into your brain? You spent two billion to buy that, yet you smashed it? I’ve never seen anyone as stupid as you!” She continued laughing, but it wasn’t long before she went silent. That was because after the gemstone shattered, a crimson flower emerged from the shattered pieces. The flower, translucent and blood–colored, glistened with a mesmerizing radiance. It embodied the essence of nature in itself, looking perfectly flawless. Upon closer inspection, it appeared as if a slow, graceful flow of red liquid was flowing within it. Illuminated under the lights, the crimson flower shone beautifully, resembling an artful. masterpiece that captivated those present, leaving them awestruck. “Could… C–could it be? Is that the legendary Flower of Crimson Gem?” After a momentary daze, the man in the long–sleeved shirt suddenly exclaimed out loud. The crowd erupted into a frenzy at his words. “Flower of Crimson Gem? That’s a Flower of Crimson Gem? I never thought I would be able to see such a treasure in my lifetime!” “It’s rumored that the Flower of Crimson Gem can not only prolong life but revive the dead. When taken by ordinary people, they would be reborn, and even achieve greater things!” 1/2 “It’s a priceless treasure! It’s definitely a priceless treasure!” “Damn it, that punk spent a mere two billion for a Flower of Crimson Gem. Lucky bastard!” The crowd looked at the Flower of Crimson Gem with tremendous greed and envy, like a beggar who chanced upon gold. A few daring individuals had even started concocting a plan secretly. “Flower of Crimson Gem? How is that possible?” Jayla was dumbfounded as she looked on in disbelief. A Flower of Crimson Gem was an extremely rare treasure that could only be chanced upon once in a blue moon. It was much more valuable than a thousand–year green lotus. Who would have thought she could encounter it in a place like this? At the heart of the matter, the Grant family was the one who discovered that red gemstone, and she had delivered it personally to the auction house. In other words, she had given away that priceless treasure! The realization left her feeling light–headed.
Chapter 379 Jayla finally realized she had been miserably deceived. However, she only had herself to blame for her mistake. Of course, with the power the Grant family held, she could demand a refund from the auctioneer. But if she did that, she would be badly criticized. She couldn’t afford to be humiliated as such. For the sake of her reputation, she could only swallow her resentment. Roderick added insult to injury. “Ms. Grant, it seems like the item that cost you a fortune isn’t that precious after all.” “You can’t say that. Even though it’s lacking a few years, it’s still considered a precious treasure.” The man in the long–sleeved shirt attempted to diffuse the situation. “Did you hear that? Even if it’s lacking, it’s still precious!” Color returned to her expression. Dustin smiled. “I’d like to ask. What’s the value of a 900–year green lotus?” He looked troubled and answered with difficulty, “Based on its effectiveness and age, it should be around three to four hundred million.” “What? It’s only worth three to four hundred million?” Jayla was stunned. She bought it for three billion! That was a massive loss of ten times its price! Roderick chuckled teasingly. “Ms. Grant, with your power and wealth, that amount of money is just a small change.” Jayla was speechless. Her eyes twitched, and her expression turned sour. In the end, it turned out that she was the loser. The man in the long–sleeved shirt chimed in, “Mr. Brooks, I don’t think you are in a position to mock her. While Ms. Grant incurred a significant loss, your purchase isn’t exactly a good buy.” “That’s right!” Jayla’s eyes brightened. Pointing at the gemstone in his arms, she said, “Even though my treasure lacks in age, at least it’s much more useful than your item! Just look at yourselves, you idiots! You spent two billion for a meager gemstone. Anyone can tell that it’s just a processed stone.” Roderick responded coolly, “It’s difficult to put a value on happiness. As long as we like it, what’s a few billion?” “That is why you two are idiots!” She sneered. “I forgot to mention. The Grant family was the one that recovered this red gemstone. In other words, the two billion you just spent went into my pockets. Surprising, huh?” Roderick’s brows knitted with her words. It didn’t matter if he’d just incurred a small loss. However, he was also played by his opponent. Not only did he suffer a loss, but he was also humiliated and called an idiot. It didn’t feel good. In a heavy voice, he commented, “Ms. Grant, you intentionally raised the price with malicious intent.” “What about it? Go sue me if you can.” She shrugged. “Whatever the case, I’m taking this two billion dollars. I’d like to see what you can do if you’re not happy about it!” She pursed her lips; her expression was smug. Roderick narrowed his eyes, looking irritated. However, he didn’t utter a word in fear of her family 1/2 background. Dustin suddenly asked, “Ms. Grant, are you saying this red gemstone is from the Grant family?” “That’s right! I’m the one who sent it here personally to be auctioned off. Why? You’re not happy?” She taunted arrogantly. “Of course I’m happy! If it wasn’t for your help, how would I be able to purchase this treasure for a mere two billion?” He smiled. “Hey! Are you out of your mind? What treasure? You spent two billion on something that’s only worth two to three hundred million. What gave you the courage to say that?” She bellowed in laughter, looking at him like he was an idiot. “Young man, is it that hard to admit you lost? Do you need to be so stubborn?”
