Chapter 124 Best of Both Worlds? Calista slammed the brakes. The employee from the florist who held the bouquet then noticed her. He fumbled to reach for their phone and checked a photo. After confirming that it was the right car, he approached her. Those who were part of the workshop were huddled at the entrance. The employee from the florist had been there since their arrival. With such a massive bouquet in hand, it was difficult to miss. Calista had already pulled up into the parking lot. She couldn’t just turn and leave. Doing so would only make it look like she was covering up the situation. It would solve nothing. She could only watch as they walked up to her. “Are you Mrs. Northwood?” Even with her windows shut, she could hear his voice loud and clear. She fell silent. She parked her car and got out. “Mr. Northwood has requested we deliver these flowers to you. Could you please sign this?” The moment he finished, her colleagues descended into an uproar. There was only a small handful of staff at the workshop. Their jobs were also monotonous. There was a wide range of ages in the group as well. All of it contributed to a lack of office politics. But, the arrival of the bouquet awakened their need for gossip. They had all seen yesterday’s trending topic. Even colleagues who rarely followed the news received a link. None of them expected Calista, who usually kept a low profile, to be Madam Northwood. The Northwoods were a wealthy bunch sitting on top of the food chain! Who would’ve thought they had someone with an identity like hers so close? Calista stared at the form handed to her but made no move to accept it. The man’s hand was trembling as the bouquet was far too big to hold with one hand. But he remained insistent on getting her to sign the slip of paper. She quickly penned down her name just to get her coworkers to stop watching the exchange. “Throw them out.” The man simply placed the flowers on the hood of her car and sped off after thanking her. Was she insane? Would his store be able to stay open if he tossed out a paying customer’s flowers? +15 BONUS She stared at the flowers sitting atop the hood and returned to the car to avoid her coworker’s curious glances. Then, she called the perpetrator. “What are you trying to do, Lucian?” Lucian had just received news from the employee that the flowers had been delivered to Calista. Upon hearing her exasperation, he frowned. “Are you not happy with them?” “Happy? Fuck you,” she outright swore at him. She hadn’t even gotten a chance to give him a piece of her mind after the man attempted to force himself on her last night. “I’ll be happy once you agree to the divorce and stop pestering me like a leech.” There was silence on the other end. She felt as if she were punching cotton. He picked up on her emotions and said, “You can stay unhappy for the rest of your life then.” She gritted her teeth and spat, “Never deliver flowers to the studio again.” Then, she added, “Don’t send them to my place either.” “I thought you said women like these showy gestures.” “Who the hell …?” […]
Chapter 123 A Girl Lucian Loves +15 BONUS Lucian let go of Calista, who continued to glare at him Her neck still bore marks left behind by his kisses when he failed to control his strength. If she had a knife in her hand, she would’ve long since stabbed him. What part of her looked afraid? Lucian said nothing His gaze was fixed on Paul’s hand. He had used the fingerprint scanner to unlock the door Being an heir to a wealthy family meant that social cues were ingrained in them. The first step was to read between the lines Despite Lucian not saying a word, Paul immediately caught onto what he was thinking. “I apologize I was in a hurry and hadn’t had time to get my data erased.” That was indeed a mistake Paul opened the door, fiddled around with the touchpad, and removed his fingerprint from the system Lucian acted distant and couldn’t be bothered to extend a symbolic invitation for the man to come inside He stood at the entrance with an expression that made it look like he was sending Paul on his way “It’s late Do you need something?” “I happened to be passing by and heard the security guard downstairs mentioning that something. had happened last night. I came to check.” The truth was that Paul had received a call from the security guard this morning to give him a detailed account of what happened the night before “Where were you? How coincidental is it for you to end up here from Riverside Manor?” The two men locked eyes. Paul looked as calm as ever There was no guilt despite being caught in a le It was as if they were in an intense standoff Paul mentioned a location that indeed made sense for his route. Calista pointed at the corridor outside. Her face was cold as she addressed Lucian “Get out!” “Callie..” Lucian called her by her name. His handsome face was impassive with no hint of emotion in sight. But the warning in his voice was apparent. +15 BONUS She suddenly raised her voice. She was now emotionally charged. Her eyes were bloodshot. She no longer cared about maintaining her dignity and laid bare the sham that was her marriage. “Get out! Leave!” Lucian’s expression turned cold. He frowned and reached out to grab her hand. Calista stood unmoving. She was either too angry to react or didn’t understand what he intended to do. However, before he could touch her, Paul intercepted him. “Let’s go get a drink.” “Paul,” Lucian narrowed his eyes, “you’re overstepping.” Despite how gentle Paul seemed, he was in no way inferior to Lucian. “I’m not going to interfere in your marital affairs. But if you stay, it won’t serve any other purpose than to sour this relationship further.” “She doesn’t want to see you right now, Lucian.” Right now? Calista never wanted to see him again! The home was so silent they could hear a pin drop. After a while, Lucian left with Paul. With Jonathan already gone, Lucian hitched a ride with Paul Paul’s voice was icy and lacked the warmth that had been ingrained into him from his early teens. “Where to? Luminary Lounge?” “Sure.” Lucian closed his eyes. He wasn’t interested in continuing the conversation. Paul, however, didn’t let their conversation drop. He spoke up, “I’m sure you can tell that Calista has made up her mind to pursue the divorce.” Lucian’s attitude was chilly. There were also hints of aggression. “So what?” “Even if I weren’t here, there would be others. Like.”
Chapter 122 What’s Done Between Husband and Wife +15 BONUS The man’s handsome face pressed close. His straight nose and lips, flawless in shape and color, were now tantalizingly close. Calista’s heart began racing with how close he was. She put her hands against his chest. “What are you doing?” That scared the living daylights out of her! Due to their proximity, Lucian spoke in a low whisper. He sounded as cold as ever but it was tinged with amusement. Yet, it did nothing to conceal the chilling undertone. “So, you failed to ensnare Paul. Is Hector Calloway the next one on your list?” She could feel his breath on her lips. She tilted her head back to put some distance between them. But with her head already pressed firmly against the door, there was no escape. “Aren’t you here because you want to get your wounds dressed? Lie down.” She pointed at the couch and pushed Lucian, who was completely pressed up against her. This was a risky position to be in. One wrong move would lead to consequences. Even though Lucian was capable of restraint, Calista hadn’t heard any news of him getting close. to any woman. She couldn’t be certain that things wouldn’t go south. He chuckled, his lips brushed against hers. “I’m asking you a question.” It wasn’t a deep kiss, but the sensation of his lips brushing against hers as he spoke was enough to distress her. Her sanity was like a taut string suddenly snapping. She didn’t care if her resistance and struggle would irritate him. She pushed against him with all her might and used her hands and feet to try to break free from his hold. She didn’t say a word. Her lips were pressed tightly together, denying him any opportunity to take advantage of her. The man looked down at her. With how close they were, he could see the rejection and panic in her eyes. She didn’t want him to touch her at all. Her eyes, red with anger and indignation, her upturned nose, red lips, flushed cheeks, and fair skin Every part of her was tempting him to kiss her He was unrestrained and fearless. He ignored her resistance. +15 BONUS With his skills, he could easily subdue a woman with one hand. Add to the physical difference in strength between men and women, she had no chance of escape. Calista could also feel his reaction… Her eyes widened in surprise. Her expression showed clear disdain. A man’s mind and body were truly separate. Lucian, the instigator, showed no signs of embarrassment when their eyes met. He said hoarsely, “Stop moving.” She gritted her teeth. “… If you were in my position, would you stay still?” He smirked and chuckled, “Why don’t you find out?” There was no reasoning with a beast. Two knocks came from the door amid their awkward exchange. “Calista? Are you there?” It was Paul! Her eyes lit up in joy. At this point, anyone, even a stranger, was welcomed. She looked at Lucian and said, “Let go. Lucian’s icy gaze remained fixed on her. He didn’t budge. Neither of them spoke but their intentions were clear. It felt as if they were stuck in a stalemate for a long time when only seconds had passed. The knocking on the door resumed, this time more urgently. “Calista?” “Make him leave.” Lucian kept his voice in a low whisper. Despite there only being a wall separating them from Paul, not a word reached the other side. Calista shot him down without hesitation. “You wish If Paul left, how much longer was Lucian going to keep up with this madness? After what happened, she couldn’t think highly of his sense of morality. Her rejection had his face gradually taking on a gloomy expression in the lamplight. He gripped her hand and pressed it against the door. His lips brushed against her earlobe.
Chapter 121 Are You in Love With Me, Lucian? Lucian looked down to watch Calista. The woman was frowning. Despite being forced to lean in his embrace, her eyes were fixed on Hector. It looked to him like she was focused solely on the man across from her. His hand slid from her shoulder to her waist. He tightened his grip to forcefully direct her attention back to him. His eyes were dark. “Let’s go.” Jonathan had already parked the car next to the pair. All they needed to do was reach for the door to get in. “No…” Before she could refuse, Lucian forcefully led her into the car. Hector’s expression darkened. He wanted to stop the man but was stopped by the two bodyguards. In a blink of an eye, Lucian had ushered Calista into the vehicle and locked the doors. The car whirred to life and sped away from the hospital. Jonathan wasn’t the only person in the car. David was also there. Hector’s voice could be heard through the roar of the engine and reached the two people in the backseat who wore vastly different expressions. “Lucian Northwood, if you force yourself on Calista, I’ll fucking kill you!” He emphasized how Lucian was forcing himself on her because he knew he had no right to meddle in their affairs as an outsider. Even if they shared a strained relationship and agreed to a divorce, it was logical for them to be together as long as they remained legally wedded. He could only intervene if Calista didn’t want this to happen. Men understood one another very well. The man had displayed clear signs of possessiveness. Hector knew best what would happen in such situations. But nothing happened per Hector’s imagination. Lucian didn’t do anything to her. He immediately released her once the door closed. The two sat next to one another with a large gap between them. Not a soul in the car spoke up. Even their breaths were barely audible. Calista turned to Lucian who had his eyes closed and leaning back against his seat. His long lashes cast shadows on his cheeks. His lips welted. The shadows outlined his +15 BONUS David glanced at the rearview mirror to see the pair ignoring one another as if they were feuding. He couldn’t help but speak up, “Mrs. Northwood, there’s a drugstore right ahead. Please buy some medicine that can help with treating Mr. Northwood. He’s also heavily injured. He’s been occupied by meetings today and had no time to visit the hospital. Mr. Calloway has been with the army for years and is part of the special forces where he endured the harshest training. His skill cannot be underestimated.” Lucian’s eyes remained closed. He didn’t stop David from giving the suggestion. But neither did he agree to it. Jonathan had already pulled up in front of the drugstore. He got out of the car and considerately opened the door for her. Calista said nothing. Eyes fixed onto her. David especially looked ready to get down on his knees to pray for mercy with his hands clasped together. He was afraid she would say no and loudly recited the names of the medications he needed her to get. With the car window opened, his voice carried far enough that those near the pharmacy could hear him. Now, even more eyes looked their way. Jonathan also wore a pleading expression Calista couldn’t bear seeing an elder looking at her like that. She knew if she refused, he might keep the door open and remain where he was until Lucian spoke up. She wasn’t about to let David off the hook now that she had been put on the spot. She said sarcastically, “You’re certainly doing your job, David. You’re receiving the salary of an assistant while doing a mother’s job.” She wondered what assistant would care for their employer this much. A grown man was begging a young woman like her. Where was his dignity? David smiled. He didn’t mention a word about Lucian’s bad mood. The only ones who had to suffer were people like him who had to go to and fro the CEO’s office more than a dozen times a day. -With how nerve–wracking it was, the job wasn’t one an ordinary person could handle. Would he end up dying of a heart attack before he could retire? Calista went to get the supplies. Apart from the iodine and gauze, she didn’t know what else was needed to treat wounds. But, she had taken a look at Hector’s pile of medications Ghe remembered a few Once she got back to the car, she tossed the supplies at Lucian. She couldn’t be bothered to do anything with it. +15 BONUS Twenty minutes later, the car pulled up at the apartment. She got out of the car, only for Lucian to follow her. She frowned and turned to speak, highly displeased.
Chapter 120 Soon–To–Be Ex–husband Hector had gone to the hospital to get his wounds freated after leaving last night. But, seeing the earnest look Calista was giving him, he shook his head. “No” “Take off your mask. Let me see your injuries.” He glanced around the bustling entrance of the apartment building. “Hete? Should we move elsewhere?” The two bodyguards behind her were Lucian’s men. Having them bear witness to his injuries was the same as his rival seeing the extent of his injuries. “It’s not like I’m asking you to take off your clothes. Why are you fussing about taking this elsewhere? Should I book you a hotel room too?” “Well, you could… Calista couldn’t be bothered with his nonsense. She immediately ripped his mask off. Hector reacted the moment she moved but lowered it. He was a rough man. He worried that he might accidentally hurt her hand if he failed to control his strength. With the mask off, the injuries on his face could finally be seen. They looked even more alarming than they had seemed the night before. She bit her lip and fell silent. Then, she made a decision. “I’m taking you to the hospital.” The injuries that could be seen already looked serious. What if he were suffering from internal bleeding? If anything went wrong because they dragged it out too long, it would be far too late to do anything Hector wasn’t particularly keen on the idea. “I thought we were going to get food? I can still move around just fine He wanted to say that he was fine. However, he immediately shut up when she shot him a disapproving look. “We can go grab a bite first. I already made a reservation at a restaurant ” They could sit in an elegant restaurant and reminisce about their past while basking in their futures. Why would he want to go to a crowded and noisy emergency room where seats were scarce at best? +15 BONUS Calisto responded with frustration. “Is food more important than your life?” She snatched the car keys out of Hector’s hands. “Get in the passenger seat.” She had also noticed that he was limping slightly. “Are you sure you should be driving? What if you crash into a curb?” He followed her like a meek wife. There was not a word of protest out of him. Calista got into the driver’s seat. When Hector was opening the passenger door, he noticed the two bodyguards following along. They seemed intent on opening the back doors. He adopted a cold expression and pressed her hand against the door. His intent was clear. The man was telling them to get lost and that they were not welcome! “We are here to ensure Ms. Northwood’s safety, Mr. Calloway. Please understand “ “You’re not here on my orders. Why should I accommodate you? Go ask whoever gave you orders for their understanding. This is my car. You’re not allowed in. If you get in, I’ll call the cops for attempted trespassing on private property.” The bodyguards fell silent. They could force their way into the car. But doing so would anger Calista. They both shared a glance and ultimately decided to follow the car from behind. The bodyguard who wasn’t at the wheel gave Lucian a call “Mrs. Northwood is taking Mr. Calloway to the hospital, sir.” They had yet to arrive but they heard the conversation between the pair. There was silence on the other end of the line for some time. The bodyguard couldn’t urge Lucian. for a response either. The conversation between Hector and Calista clued them in that his injuries were caused by Lucian. The situation also seemed to have led to their contractor’s injuries. Calista, as Mrs. Northwood, was driving Hector to the hospital. She hadn’t spared her husband any goodwill. Not only did she not care, they had even gotten into a fight that morning. The door wasn’t exactly soundproof. They were standing outside and heard her hurtful words. This was a real fixer–upper. Surely, they weren’t going to be silenced for this? Just as the bodyguard was fearing for his life, Lucian’s voice came through the receiver. “see”
Chapter 119 Boldly Peutering Her The bodyguards didn’t even flinch in the face of her questioning. They remained cold and businesslike. “We received orders to protect you.” Protect her? Was Calista supposed to believe that Lucian was that kind–hearted? “I don’t need anyone’s protection. Go back to wherever you came from. Stop standing at my front door” She had barely finished speaking when she noticed her neighbors snooping on the commotion with their doors open. The bodyguards stood stiffly in place. They sounded as emotionless as a robot. “Mr. Northwood says that he’ll come here himself if you don’t want us around.” “Calista could barely believe her ears. Great! Her appetite for breakfast was gone in an instant! She slammed the door shut with a resounding bang. She pulled out her phone from her bag and gave Lucian a call. The moment the man picked up. she vented her overwhelming rage at him. “Have your men leave this instant, Lucian!” “They can protect you while you’re there.” The man had seemingly just gotten out of bed. His voice sounded hoarse. She gritted her teeth. “I don’t need protection.” “We’re trending now. Many people now know who you are. You’ll be attracting some unsavory attention. It’s not safe for you to live there.” Lucian shouldn’t have brought up the topic. Doing so only made her angrier. “I don’t see you being this considerate back when you leaked our pictures to the media * Back then, she had been subjected to online harassment to the point she couldn’t leave her home. She also had to hide from the creditors. No bodyguards were present despite her predicament. There wasn’t a single person who defended her online. The man was silent for a few seconds. When he spoke again, his hoarse voice now sounded grim. “Who told you that?” Calista responded sarcastically, “Your sweetheart, of course.” +15 BONUS Lucian had managed to cover everything up despite so many eyes watching last night. Who else could she be but his sweetheart? Given the situation, the incident involving Lily attending the auction with Lucian’s invitation alone would’ve been enough to turn her into the object of public ridicule! A suppressed chuckle could be heard through the receiver. After a while, he spoke. “You don’t get to negotiate when it comes to the bodyguards. It’s them or I move over there to watch over you myself.” Calista was so frustrated that her head went blank. “Can you stop pestering me and start acting like a real man, Lucian? You could’ve made it so that the news report would never see the light of day. And, now everyone knows about it. Are you crazy? I don’t need your protection. I don’t need you to collect my corpse from the morgue even if I die!” She took a few deep breaths to ease her dizziness from the lack of oxygen. “I’ve made plans to go out with someone. Have your men leave.” “They’re not going to stop you.” They weren’t going to stop her. But, they were going to follow her everywhere. Imagine having two bodyguards who were devoid of emotion hovering over her while she ate How was she supposed to remain calm in that situation? “Lucian,” she forced herself to calm down, “is this some kind of jealous streak? You’re messing with me because you don’t want me to go out with Hector, aren’t you?” “If that’s what you think… so be it.” This wasn’t about jealousy at all. He was mocking her. This was his way of getting back at her. She hung up the phone and tossed it onto the carpet in a fit of rage! Yara soon arrived with a suitcase that had been converted into a makeup kit. She changed out of
Chapter 118 Mr. Northwood Doesn’t Like Madam Calista +15 BONUS Lucian opened his eyes. The white wisps of smoke escaped from between his lips. None of the lights in the living room were on. The only source of light that illuminated the room was from the street lamps outside the massive windows. The already dim glow was further obscured by the smoke that lingered in the air, casting a hazy veil over his vision. He cleared his throat and hummed in response. David quickly sent him the manuscript after hanging up. The brightness of his phone was rather harsh under the dim lighting. But, Lucian wasn’t in the mood to switch the lights on. He simply checked through what he’d been sent despite the manor being equipped with smart home technology. All he needed to do was use the smart app to switch it on. It was just as he expected. Calista had been caught confronting Lily. But, it only featured a photograph of her raising her hand. There was no follow–up. The article’s text sympathized with Lily and insinuated that Calista was arrogant and overbearing, There was also mention of the incident of them spending the night together. It implied that she had earned her position of Mrs. Northwood by climbing into his bed. The wording was mild. But, Lucian knew the draft was to test his reaction. If he kept silent, the article that would be published tomorrow would be much harsher in tone. “Should we go ahead with this, Mr. Northwood?” Lucian ran his fingers against the armrest of the couch. His short hair and features were bathed in the intense pale light of the phone screen. It intensified the shadows on his face. “Do you believe she forced me into a marriage by sleeping with me?” David kept silent because he didn’t know what answer Lucian expected of him. He had once assumed that was the case. Having worked alongside both Lucian and Calista, he observed the way his boss saw the woman. Anyone could see that he wasn’t fond of her. But, with Lucian’s recently cryptic behavior, he knew things weren’t as straightforward as they initially seemed. Lucían couldn’t blame David for his silence. He continued hoarsely with a humorless smirk, “I’m the one who forced her into a marriage.” +15 BONUS David had no idea whether or not Lucian was telling the truth. Was that what Lucian wanted him to convey to the press? But no matter what it was, he knew exactly what Lucian meant. “I’ll have them revise it immediately.” “The journalist who wrote this press release,” Lucian paused. “I never want to see them in this industry again.” “Yes, sir.” David felt no sympathy for the journalist. Anyone with a proper head on their shoulders wouldn’t engage in their affairs. Regardless of how Lucian felt about Calista, she was still Mrs. Northwood No matter how favored Lily seemed, she was simply an ex. All she was now was a mistress. The next day, Calista was bombarded by articles about how loving she and Lucian were the moment she opened her phone. The photo depicted the two of them holding hands and smiling while being interviewed by the media. She quit the application and opened the browser instead. The trending search was about Lucian revealing his hidden marriage and his admission that he was the one who forced the marriage to happen. Going into another app only led to the same news. That was when she received a call from Yara. The woman could barely hide her surprise. She sounded excited to hear about the latest gossip. “What’s going on here, Calista? Aren’t you and Lucian getting a divorce? Then, I woke up to this announcement. Everything is happening so quickly” Calista lay in bed and stared up at the ceiling in despair. “Would you think I’m lying to you if I said I have no idea what’s going on?” Yara fell silent. “Is he finally realizing your worth and wants to win your affection now?” “I don’t think so. It’s more likely he’s gone insane after suffering a beating from Hector.” “Hector Calloway?” Yara asked. Calista’s anger flared up. She scrambled to sit up. “That scumbag. He laid a trap because he doesn’t want me to go out with Hector.“, The photo was taken at the auction last night. The entire article was about their shared affection for one another. There was no mention of Lily Scott. +15 BONUS Given the media’s penchant to care about nothing but traffic, they wouldn’t miss the opportunity to report on the massive scoop. Why would they only report the official announcement? The mother–in–law was protecting her daughter–in–law and publicly shamed the mistress. It was a topic that would generate buzz. Yet, there wasn’t any word about it. It didn’t take a genius to guess that this was Lucian’s doing! “How despicable can he be? He’s all lovey–dovey with Lily. But, I want to go out with a friend and he makes a big show of it…” With such extensive trending topics, anyone who read the news would know who she was. If she went out with Hector by herself, what would others say? His reckless behavior would not help their case. 1 Yara had no idea what had happened the night before. She didn’t share Calista’s sentiments and cut her off. “Wait. Hold on? Hector Calloway? The guy who always waits for you by the campus gates? The guy you see as a brother? Did you bump into him last night? You even made plans to grab a bite together?” Calista recounted what had happened the night before. “You should go.” Yara smacked her thigh. “Wait for me. I’ll do your makeup for you. I guarantee even your… Dad wouldn’t recognize you.” she had nearly slipped and said “Mom“. She had been the number one fan of the Calista and Hector ship. Unfortunately, Calista never saw it that way. She never noticed Hector’s crush on her One of them was married now and the other had no intention of starting a relationship. But, they could still hang out. It would soothe Yara of the pain of seeing them broken up “Forget it…” Calista said. She didn’t want to involve Hector in this mess. She agreed to his invitation yesterday to hang out with a friend she hadn’t seen in years. But now given that the meal would cause unnecessary trouble for the man, she should just forget about it. “Wait for me. I’ll be right there. Lucian doesn’t want you to meet him. But, we’re not going to let things go his way.” Data shu Auy an als we deres spaghened by Dan go to Cato prepare mallest demelza She added they had the “Whear you Protest me” she wife +15 BONUS With that, she hung up Calista was rendered speechless. It would take Yara roughly half an hour to get here Calista decided to prepare breakfast downstairs She had just opened the door, only to find two stout men dressed in black suits standing in the doorway She frowned. “What are you doing here?” She could hazard a guess on who was behind it. But, she asked anyway One of the men turned around “Mr Northwood sent us here to protect you, Mrs Northwood * “Protect me?” she scoffed She raised her voice “Are you protecting me or monitoring me?”
Chapter 117 Fighting in Her Honor Hector had looked mto Lucian during the auction There was not a peep about Calista’s marriage to him All he saw was rumors about him with another woman To him, Lucian was not a good person! Moreover, the two of them were already getting a divorce. What he was doing was tantamount to stalking With that thought in mind, Hector squared up. His stance was casual as he poked his tongue in his cheek. He looked doubtful. “Can’t you tell she doesn’t want anything to do with you? You’re oh so rich and noble. You’re well- educated, aren’t you? Take a hint, eh?” Lucian iplled his eyes with a brooding intensity. “Who do you think you are to interfere in our affairs?” His deep voice enunciated every word. From how he presented himself, he looked like a gentleman in a suit and tie who could be taken out with one hand. But deep down, he gave off a feeling of violent aggression. Both were hot–blooded men who didn’t tolerate blatant provocation. Neither of them seeing eye to eye only added fuel to the fire. Neither knew who would throw the first punch, but they started fighting! They fought with no restraint. Every punch guaranteed a beatdown. Just the sounds alone were enough to send someone running for the hills! Hector slammed his fist into the left side of Lucian’s face. At the same time, however, a kick was delivered right into his middle. He staggered back several steps before he regained his balance. Despite the protection his muscles offered, it felt as if he had been severely injured. “Tch he gasped in pain. He raised a brow in surprise. It was rare for someone to injure him in a one–on–one fight after his years spent in the military. He didn’t expect how well the man could put up a fight. He clicked his tongue. Now, he was no longer as casual as he had been before. He hunched over and beckoned Lucian “Come at me.” Lucian wiped the blood from his lip with the back of his hand. He took off his coat, undid his tie, and tossed his cufflinks to the floor. +15 BONUS He also undid three of the buttons on his dress shirt, ensuring that his clothes weren’t going to restrict his movement. The bodyguards nearby were flabbergasted If they chose not to intervene, what were they going to say to the residents about the two men brawling at their gates? But, how were they supposed to intervene when they had no means of stopping them? They had no idea who Hector was. But, they were more than aware of who Lucian was. Anyone who dared to cross Lucian was likely to be of the same social standing. They tried to talk them down earlier. It was all to no avail. They couldn’t afford to confront them either. They wouldn’t win against the men in a fight With no other option, the security guards had no choice but to turn their attention to the instigator of the brawl It was only then they realized that the woman was already walking away. They hurried after her “Please stay, Ms. Everhart Could you at least try to stop them? If this continues, the apartment’s entryway isn’t going to be able to hold up!” The barrier gates were about to be broken! Calista knew about Lucian and Hector getting into a fight. She had turned around to take a look. The two men baring their fangs at each other’s throats was brutal. But, they were reasonable men and knew when to stop. She didn’t bother to look back at the security guard’s request. They can keep fighting if they want. They’ll leave once they’re done. Don’t worry about it.” The security guard turned around and stared blankly at the two men, the broken barrier gate, and the blood stains on the ground. Then, he turned his gaze back to Calista who continued on her way. What a vicious woman! In a situation such as this one, wouldn’t the usual approach be to step in and force them to stop?
Chapter 116 He Wants to Be Her Man The SUV let out a resounding roar as the door closed. They weren’t going particularly fast because Calista had yet to fasten her seatbelt. But, the noise was enough to attract the attention of half the hotel. By the time Lucian reached the entrance, all he could see was the red glow of the tail lights flashing in the darkness. His gaze remained fixed in that direction. The look in his eyes was darker than the starless night sky. His lips were pressed into a thin line in displeasure. An injured Lily came outside with the assistance of a staff member. “I’ll go get a car, Ms. Scott. Please wait a moment.” “Alright.” She stood by Lucian. Due to the ache in her ankle, she had to lean against the doorframe to keep her balance. She had to change out of her high heels into disposable hotel slippers, making her swollen ankle. look even worse. He turned his attention to her and parted his lips. Lily knew he had something to say when she sensed his gaze on her. She interrupted him. “You should go after her. Don’t worry about me.” She stared straight ahead, her attitude aloof and proud. “Why did she suddenly attack you?” His voice was as cold as ever. He didn’t seem particularly agitated. The way he spoke to her was no different from the way he conversed with people who didn’t matter. She finally turned to him with her eyes still rimmed red. She gave him a self–deprecating smile as she met his calm gaze. –“You’re not even going to ask me about my injury, are you? All you want to know is what I did that pushed her to resort to raising her hand at me.” Lucian said nothing. Lilly kept her silence for a short moment before saying, “Go ask her.” She had regained her calm. But, he could still pick out the resentment in her voice. +15 BONUS Her voice was choked as she said, “Whatever she says goes.” The staff returned with the car. Before they could help her into the vehicle, she limped over herself Back in the SUV, Calista turned to Hector. Tak, he was still the attention seeker she knew from back in high school. Every cell in his body was itching for a fight. Yet, it was h familiar feeling… She fastened her seatbelt and slouched in the passenger seat in relaxation. Hector’s mood had gone from joy from their reunion to sadness. He was plunged into sorrow when he learned the woman he loved was married and the groom wasn’t him. He sounded stern as he spoke. It wasn’t intentional; rather, it was the result of training in the military. His words sounded as if he was training someone. “Why didn’t you wait for me?” Calista felt as if she were being accused of something. “When did you ask me to wait for you?” If she’d had known, she would’ve rejected him outright! Then, she had her full focus on the mother -and–daughter duo scheming against her. It left her no room to think about romance. Was she supposed to think the guy who buddied up to her was secretly aspiring to be her man? “The night before I left to join the military. I told you to wait for me to return so I can keep treating you to meals. You promised.” What kind of deep–seated resentment was this? She turned her head and asked, “Have you never had a girlfriend, Hector?” She hadn’t wanted to attack him that way, but she couldn’t help it. Hector didn’t catch the underlying meaning behind her words.
Chapter 115 Don’t You Dare, Calista! +15 BONUS There was a striking look in the woman’s eyes. The way she smiled provocatively resembled a sly fox Lucian thought about what Calista had said before. It was about how she wasn’t going to let him have it both ways He frowned In the time they were
