Chapter 114 A Promise to Another Man +15 BONUS Hector Calloway thought he had the wrong person at first. He shot Calista a casual glance when she first walked in. He couldn’t be certain then. Now, he was sure it was her. “I thought you looked familiar when you walked in. It is you.” He sat down in the chair next to her with his legs spread out in front of him in a bold manner. “Have you seen the catalog? Is there anything you like? I’ll buy them for you.” A catalog was placed on each seat. The booklet provided details about the items being auctioned for the day. Calista was just about to respond when Lucian spoke coldly. It was as if he were looking to pick a fight. “I believe that isn’t your seat, Mr. Calloway.” It was only then that Hector noticed Lucian. He raised a brow. “Who’s this, Calista?” The two men locked eyes. One was arrogantly assertive while the other was cold and composed. There was a dark look in Lucian’s eyes as he wrapped his arm around Calista’s shoulder in a possessive manner. “I’m her husband.” “Husband? You’re married?” Hector hadn’t been present during the interview with the press outside. His expression darkened at the sight of Lucian’s hand resting on her shoulder. He quickly grabbed her arm and asked in a low, tense voice, “When did you get married? You promised you would marry me.” Hector and Calista were classmates. He had always been the school bully. His father later forcibly enlisted him into the military. The school bully then became an army ruffian. He only ended up becoming even more domineering than before. With how agitated he got, every–word sounded like a yell. Calista was left stupefied by his words, “What?” When had she promised to marry him? They shared the same classes back in high school and furthered their studies at the same +15 BONUS Back in the day, her relationship with Nikolette was tense and filled with conflicts. She was hot- tempered Neither of them shared any interactions at first. That was until their teacher paired them up in an attempt to improve Hector’s grades. Calista was assigned to tutor him. The teacher wanted her to get him to score another fifty points in two months. The straight–A student and the school bully. They were like water and oil. The two of them often butted heads at the start. Hector was a mean guy, but he swore to never lay a finger on girls. Calista didn’t care about any of that. She would fight him if he slacked off from his studies. She showed no mercy. Their fights had somehow helped them form a brotherly bond. Hector’s features were stern. He was a direct guy who said what he meant. “The night before I left for the army.” Calista tried to recall what had happened back then. But, it had been a while. They had been drinking too. She and Hector had chatted for three whole hours. She couldn’t be certain if something strange had been said. Lucian grabbed the hand Hector had around Calista’s wrist. “Please watch your conduct, Mr. Calloway.” […]
Chapter 113 Good Luck With Your Impotence Calista, who had wanted to play matchmaker, blinked in confusion. She stared wide–eyed at how calm Selena was with her blatant lies. How was she supposed to react? When on earth had she thrown up? And compared to Lily, who could barely catch her breath, she was well enough to knock out a cow! She didn’t look ill at all. But, Calista’s series of thoughts barely affected the media’s focus. They had their cameras aimed at her. Among the paparazzi were well–informed individuals who had heard about the goings on. Only, they hadn’t seen the two of them together or received any sort of official announcement. Thus, they remained uncertain of the news‘ authenticity. Now that Selena Jenkin, the mother–in–law, had confirmed it herself, there was no longer any doubt. “Mrs. Northwood, are you aware that Ms. Scott is here at the auction with your husband’s invitation?” “Do you think Ms. Scott is aware of your marriage to Mr. Northwood?” A majority of the journalists crowded around Calista when they realized they couldn’t get much information out of Lucian. The wife tearing down the mistress had been a hot topic since time immemorial. Even more so when said mistress was a public figure. Tomorrow’s headlines were practically writing itself. With the crowd gathering around, it got congested. Calista had two microphones nearly hitting her in the face in the chaos. Lucian frowned and walked over, passing over Lily. The pale–faced woman suddenly got in his way. “Those photographs that depict you and Calista leaving the hotel. I know it was you who leaked them to the media outlets.” The incident had caused quite a stir. She had even seen the news about it abroad. But that might also be because of how she kept a constant eye on Lucian. She had found it odd at the time how certain media outlets were actively going out of their way to 1/5 +15 BONOS She couldn’t believe what she was seeing at the time. She was stubborn in refusing to accept the fact that Lucian had gone to a hotel with another woman right after she left. But, as things began to escalate, she realized she could no longer lie to herself. Lucian narrowed his eyes as a cold glint passed through them. His voice, however, remained unchanged. “Are you trying to threaten me, Lily?” Lily … The way he said it made it sound like an unchanging term of endearment. It made her want to laugh. She knew best despite how intimately he called her name, it wasn’t because he had any affection for her. It was simply because he was too lazy to change the way he called her name. To him, it didn’t matter if she was Lills, Lilsy, or plain old Lily. It made no difference. It was just a nickname. Since it made no difference, why bother putting the effort into changing that? “I’m a public figure, Lucian. My next show is in Capeton half a month from now.” She could not afford to have negative press pinned on her. Frankly speaking, Lily had made progress after taking classes. She knew when to beat a retreat to allow herself a way forward. If she remained as haughty and aloof as she had been before, she would’ve never compromised at all. She would prefer mutual destruction rather than compromise. Selena watched them converse with one another through the gaps between the crowd. It looked as if they were making eyes at one another. The sight had her nearly collapsing from anger. She had been trying to urge Lucian to make up with his wife, but he kept openly defending his mistress.
Chapter 112 Is She Pregnant? +15 BONOS The attendees of the auction were all from the same social circle. They were people who met one another regularly. Upon hearing that, someone immediately chimed in, “Are you sure? How did you know?” The invitations were only presented at the entrance and Lily was just climbing up the steps. “Her invitation fell to the floor when she got out of the car. I happened to see it and it looked like it said ‘Northwood‘.” Northwood was not a common surname. It was also associated with someone of great influence and status. Who else could it be but Lucían Northwood? – “They’ve both been on the news before. The dancer fell off the stage and was carried away by Mr. Northwood. Now she’s attending the auction with his invitation. Something seems to be going on.” The noblewoman who was chatting with Selena knew about Lucian’s marriage and said with righteous indignation, “These people don’t know anything at all. There they go running their mouths again. It’s like they forgot all their morals back in elementary school.” Selena wore a dignified smile on her face. In truth, she was swearing up a storm on the inside at Lucian. Right now, if Lily was swaggering the streets with an invitation, she was indirectly admitting to her relationship with Lucian to those who didn’t know better. To those who did, it looked as if Lucian had a mistress! She wanted so badly to rip it out of Lily’s hands. But, she couldn’t be certain that the invitation she had came from Lucian! If it was, wouldn’t it be humiliating to cause a scene? The press was on–site! Thinking about how she was going to be judged by others annoyed Calista to no end! How could she have given birth to a son that kept worrying her? Lily wore a white halter V–neck dress today. Her hair hung in ringlets and partly concealed her bare back. As a practiced dancer, she had a flexible and slender posture. Her graceful charm far surpassed most of the wealthy women present. Her gaze unexpectedly met Selena’s eyes. After a brief pause, she hesitantly approached the older 1/4 “Mrs. Northwood” +15 BONOS She gripped the invitation in her hands as if it were a baked potato. Selena was elegantly dressed in a suit with her hair pulled up She regarded Lily with disdain. “Would you mind if I took a look at your invitation, Ms. Scott?” She wasn’t particularly loud. But the people who had heard the gossip pricked up their ears. They kept throwing the two women sidelong glances. It was as if they were curious giraffes peeking from behind tree branches. Lily’s fingers had turned white. Her lips had been chewed through and bore deep marks. She was aware that Selena didn’t want to see her, but she didn’t think the woman would confront her so openly. ‘Let’s discuss this in private, Mrs. Northwood. We’ll be the butt of the joke if they see us arguing.” Selena didn’t need to see the name on the invitation for herself. Lily’s reaction said it all. The contempt in Selena’s eyes only grew more intense. It was as if Lily were a pile of garbage she couldn’t bear to look at “You may not be aware, Ms. Scott. My daughter–in–law is here today. So, I won’t allow anything belonging to my son to be seen with another woman. It’s an insult to her.” She held out her hand. “If you know what’s best for yourself, Ms. Scott, you should hand over your invitation and leave.” It wasn’t because Lucian introduced his mother that Lily knew Selena. Lily had gone out of her way to arrange meetings with Selena to curry favor with her. In the face of the flattery, all Selena said was, “I know you’re my son’s girlfriend. But, you don’t have to go out of your way to please me. I will never approve of your relationship.” Lily couldn’t wrap her head around it. They were both women and were graduates of a university. They were both sharp. They were equally adventurous in their respective departments. Why was Selena so accepting of Calista, but not her? “I came here to bid on a jewelry piece, Mrs. Northwood. I won’t be here for long. I won’t get in Calista’s way. I won’t say anything that will damage … Mr. Northwood’s reputation.” 2/4 +15 BONOS “What you’re here for is of no concern to me, Ms. Scott I wouldn’t bother with you even if you were sitting in a conspicuous position as long as you don’t have my son’s invitation”
Chapter 111 Losing Control Calista snapped back to her senses as he inched closer She found her gaze fixed on the man’s lips and unconsciously leaned back. But as soon as she moved, Lucian pulled her into his embrace “Ten minutes” There was no thyme or reason to his words. And yet, she understood what he meant The man’s scent was familiar to her despite the lack of intimacy throughout their three years. together. She had no choice but to lean against his chest and listen to the sound of his steady heartbeat. Apart from the thumping of his heart, the world was silent. At that moment, she found herself unable to push him away. Perhaps it was because of the exhaustion from the recent argument that she felt drained. She relaxed and allowed herself to lean fully against Lucian. “He used to treat me like that too.” It had been a long time since then. She needed time to recall the details carefully, Calista spoke slowly but Lucian didn’t interrupt her. He didn’t show a trace of impatience. If the executives of Northwood Corporation who had been repeatedly lambasted came across them, they would likely think they were experiencing a haunting! “This happened while I was still in elementary school. A fellow student accused me of stealing. He pushed me during our argument. I hit the back of my head against the corner of a table. It escalated to the point where a teacher had to intervene. The student called his parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents… Twenty of them gathered and filled the teacher’s office. He single- handedly confronted the crowd and gave the student who refused to admit that he falsely accused me a thorough beating. He got his face scratched.” Looking back, she could no longer clearly remember what had happened back then. The most vivid memories of him were of him punishing her over and over again for Nikolette. Lucian didn’t say anything. He reached out and patted her head. When he looked down, he could see her fair and delicate skin and her slightly reddened lips, Her docile and gentle appearance was much cuter than her usual prickly behavior. 1/4 +15 BONOS It made batz want to kiss her It was merely a passing thought. He wasnt that desperate Calista pushed him away once the ten minutes were up. She touched her rumbling stomach “Where’s the food? I’m starving He scoffed It’s a good thing you haven’t starved to death yet” Soon, the waiter began serving the food. The table was filled as if it was a Thanksgiving spread. Ironically, Calista who had claimed to have no appetite just moments earlier, ended up eating more. Lucian who had suggested eating, only ate a few bites before settling his cutleries aside. After eating their fill the woman felt sleepy. She quickly fell asleep in the comfortably heated can. She leaned against the window. The car’s movement had her bumping her head against the glass window. A resounding thud could be heard on impact. Lucian closed his eyes. After a moment’s hesitation, he reached over and pulled her close so she could lean against his shoulder. With her soft body pressed up against him, the urge he tried to suppress back at the restaurant resurfaced with a vengeance. After gazing at her for a moment, he lowered his head and planted a kiss on her warm and rosy lips. The kiss almost led to him losing control. If it weren’t for his conscience reminding him that he was still in a car with Jonathan at the wheel, he would have gone too far. He let go of her and turned to look out the window. His eyes were half–lidded as he calmed his urges. Meanwhile, Jonathan, who was in the front, could finally relax. It was a rough time. He was nearly half–buried in his seat! In the week that followed, Calista’s life was exceptionally calm. There were no disturbances. Zachary had returned. But perhaps Lucian’s warning had worked or he noticed how ruthless she had become. He realized that he could no longer get anything out of her and couldn’t be bothered to waste time +15 BONOS She didn’t pay any attention to Nikolette’s affairs and had no idea if the problem had been solved. But seeing Zachary’s determination to protect her no matter the cost, it was unlikely anything major would happen. Selena called Calista up one day. She wanted the girl to accompany her to an auction. Calista hadn’t been keen to go. But, Selena was already waiting downstairs. Before leaving, she took the car keys for the vehicle she had driven out of the Everglade Manor from the drawer. The car was far too expensive and drew eyes whenever it was in use. She had to pay a parking fee to park there. She couldn’t sell it either because she wasn’t the owner. Calista had planned to return it to Lucian. In a way, she’d then be able to repay him for the money she owed him for buying her out of her familial ties to Zachary. Selena’s car was parked at an obvious spot. Calista could pick it out at a glance. She got into the car and was greeted by the sight of her mother–in–law’s downcast expression. “Is something wrong, Mom? Are you ill?” she asked, puzzled. Selena’s health was her primary concern now that she was openly pursuing a divorce with Lucian. The elderly woman glanced up at the apartment building Calista had walked out of and shook her head after a moment’s hesitation. “It’s nothing. I’m doing fine. Don’t worry.” She knew that Paul had asked for Lucian’s opinion before he bought it. She was right there. Were they living together now? “How did you know that I lived here?” Calista asked. “I asked Lucian. He was the one who told me about it.” Lucian knew that she lived at Paul’s place but showed no signs of jealousy. It seemed her daughter -in–law was soon to be with another man. The more Selena thought about it, the more it hurt. After giving it some thought, she said, “I know you share a deep connection with Paul, Calista. But, don’t don’t rush into it. What if he takes you for granted once he has you? He doesn’t seem like someone who would abandon you but you can never be too careful. You should wait until you and Lucian…” 3/4 +15 BONOS She hesitated to mention the divorce. “I’ll help speak up for you when the time comes. They will welcome you to their family in style. Calista was confused. “What are you saying?” “You and Paul. Aren’t the two of you together?” “Where did that come from?” Calista was as amused as she was lost for words. “Paul and I are just friends. I’m only staying here temporarily. I pay rent.” Selena grew excited. The melancholic mood that had been plaguing her for days was gone. There was now a bright and cheerful air to her. “You’re renting the place? That’s good news. It’s located in a prime spot. You can go ahead and pay more. We don’t want to owe Paul any favors. I’ll transfer a few thousand dollars to you later. You should keep it and spend it on yourself.” The auction featured mainly jewelry and accessories. It was held at a five–star hotel. The guests invited to it were respected figures from all walks of life. Calista left for the bathroom while Selena waited for her by the entrance to chat with a friend. Then, she heard someone next to her exclaim in surprise, “Look, isn’t that that dancer? Why does she have what looks like a formal invitation from Mr. Northwood?”
Chapter 110 Lucian Is a Ruthless Tyrant Calista had been eager to see how thick–skinned Zachary could be to make up tall tales that could be debunked at a moment’s notice. But the waiter pushed open the door. All three people inside turned to look at her… She smiled as she walked in and took her seat beside Lucian. She would’ve preferred to sit elsewhere but it was the only empty seat available, “What were you discussing?” she asked. Lucian smirked. “We were discussing your close bond with your sister and how you’ve spoiled her.” The man was aware of Calista’s family’s circumstances. He knew when her mother had passed away and when her stepmother came into the picture. He also knew when Zeke had punished Calista for Nikolette’s sake, down to what day she failed to show up at school. He knew every detail. The woman looked up to see Zachary throwing her nervous looks. He looked ready to answer for her. “Yes, we do have quite the bond. After all, it’s been so many years and she’s still up and kicking,” she said placidly. Zachary relaxed during the first half of her sentence but tensed up at the second. “What nonsense are you spouting in front of Lucian, child? You’re making a fool of yourself.” “He’s my husband. We’re a family. There’s no need for us to act so distantly when we’re a family.” Calista was positively brimming with joy. She, of course, knew what Zachary was up to. He wanted to play out a three–part act of fatherly love, a daughter’s sensibilities, and the bond of sisterhood. It was all in the hopes that Lucian would help Nikolette resolve her problems for the sake of the family. Calista giggled innocently as she considered what to say next. “Or perhaps you don’t see Lucian as family at all, Dad. Do you think of him as a cash cow? Is that 1/4 “Shut up!” Zachary exploded into rage. +15 BONOS His eyes were bulging out of his head in his fit of anger. His hands that were resting against the table were clenched into fists. With how tightly they were clenched, his arms trembled uncontrollably from the force. Nikolette patted him on his back to calm him down. Her eyes were red from a mixture of urgency and anger “How could you speak to Dad this way, Calista?” “If that’s all it takes to break you, why are you still sitting here?” Calista’s smile faded, revealing impatience and indifference beneath. “How dare you…” Nikolette started. Before she could say anything unpleasant, Zachary stopped her. He knew making use of their kinship to butter Calista up wouldn’t work and decided to get straight to the point. “You should know what’s going on with your sister. Tell me what you want and have Lucian help her with solving the matter. The debt collectors are ruthless. They’ll kill her if she doesn’t pay them back!” He would’ve preferred to skip her and go directly to Lucian. But he knew very well that despite being Calista’s father, the man wouldn’t give him the time of day if she didn’t speak up! Calista’s hand that rested on her knee curled up. Her voice sounded erratic, “You’ll give me anything I want?” Zachary gritted his teeth.
Chapter 109 Cry In Pain +15 BONOS Calista was caught off guard until she saw the flats in the box. Only then did she realize Lucian’s intentions In just a few seconds, Lucian had grabbed hold of her ankle. His palms were warm, and Calista could feel the heat through the thin fabric. She pulled her foot back uncomfortably and whispered, “I can do it myself.” This would usually make people swoon in TV shows, but it felt awkward in real life, especially with two strangers watching them. She wished she could dig a hole and hide inside right then! And judging by the envy in their eyes, they probably found this moment incredibly sweet! Calista refused to admit it was her problem. It must be Lucian. He was too flawed. This romantic gesture felt out of character for him, making her feel weird. His head was lowered, and Calista could see his long and dense eyelashes, as well as the contours of his nose and jawline. He tightened his grip as she struggled and furrowed his eyebrows. “Don’t move,” Lucian said with a frown. Maks He easily removed her shoes, revealing Calista’s fair skin and the abrasions on her heel and ankle. There was a wound on the skin, and blood was oozing out. Lucian would look at her wound with a pained expression if this were a movie. But in reality, he smiled mockingly and said, “Why are you so foolish? Don’t you cry when you’re in pain?” “I’m not a baby. Why should I cry? Why don’t you cry for me?” Calista forcefully pulled her foot back. She had decided that if he didn’t let go, she would kick him with one swift motion! She easily broke free. But she didn’t know if it was because of her strength or his loosened grip. Lucian had bought a pair of sneakers with the salesperson’s help, and she even thoughtfully provided a pair of socks. However, taking them off later would be painful, as the socks would stick to her wound. +15 BONOS Calista was about to put them on when Lucian held her hand and asked the salesperson, “Do you have band–aids?” The two people, laughing so hard that they couldn’t help but chuckle, immediately straightened their backs and said they had some. They went to the counter to fetch the band–aids. Calista had intended to do it herself, but Lucian took the band–aid and applied it to her wound in one swift move. She felt a pinch of bitterness as she said, “You seem to know this well. You’ve done your homework.” The only other woman who had gotten close to him was Lily. Needless to say, she was the one he learned these from. Calista could swear that she had just spoken her mind without any sarcasm. Lucian helped her put on the socks, and his movements were far from delicate. He said, “If only you knew a bit about the product, you wouldn’t be making snide remarks here.”
Chapter 108 Lucian’s Peculiar Fetish +15 MONGS Joshua keenly sensed that something was amiss between the two of them and asked, “Who is this?” Calista turned around and was about to speak when she heard Lucian behind her say, “I am her husband. It’s raining, and I’ve come to pick her up.” He even pulled her into his arms as he spoke. “Yes, he’s my husband.” Calista’s expression froze, and she forced a smile, saying, “He’s a bit shameless, Mr. Xanders. I hope you don’t mind.” Joshua chuckled at her words, “Don’t be annoyed. He’s just concerned about you. This place is not easy to find,” This street was filled with such ancient and picturesque buildings, and the restaurant he had chosen wasn’t popular. It wasn’t located on a busy street, so it was hard to find. Looking at Calista’s reaction, she didn’t expect him to be here. This meant she hadn’t shared her location with him. It was evident that he cared a lot about her. Calista could only nod in agreement. After sending off Joshua, she immediately put on an annoyed face. “How did you end up here?” She didn’t believe it was a coincidence at all. They wouldn’t have reached the point of being irreconcilable if it was fate. “David said you were having dinner here.” “Did you have me followed?” They were quite far from the Northwood Corporation, and it was a workday. David wouldn’t have known she was there If Lucian hadn’t instructed him to follow her. Lucian didn’t refute her and instead pulled her into the car. Calista raised an eyebrow and asked mockingly, “So, you didn’t come here all the way to take me 1/4 She didn’t insist on getting out of the car for two reasons. +15 BONOS The first was because she tried, but Lucian’s grip was so firm that she failed. Secondly, she didn’t want to stand in the rain and wait for a taxi. She wasn’t the main character in some drama, trying to prove her integrity by getting herself all dirty and disheveled. She had no reason to decline someone with a car, especially when half of the car belonged to her. Lucian replied, “No.” Calista looked at him in astonishment. He admitted it so shamelessly, he truly had no shame. Lucian instructed Johnathan, “Go to the mall.” “Why are we going to the mall at this hour?” Calista frowned. “We’re going shopping.” Was he out of his mind? “Aren’t we getting a divorce? I won’t agree to your terms, and you can’t win against the Northwood family in court. Instead of that, why don’t you work on pleasing me? I might agree to the divorce if I’m in a good mood,” Lucian added. Calista was speechless. His statement hit the nail on the head, making it impossible for her to refuse. Lucian knew she was considering the option, and he smirked with amusement. However, it soon turned self–effacing. Because Lucian hadn’t specified which mall they were going to, and it was quite late. Jonathan drove them directly to a large 24–hour shopping center. In addition to the mall, there was also a carnival in front that had everything. In any case, it was very suitable for a date. When the car door opened, they were met with the bustling sounds of cars. Calista exited the car and stood aside, waiting for Lucian to go first. Shopping was his idea,
Chapter 107 Pretentious +15 BONOS Selena glanced at Lucian, whose mood had visibly soured, and said, “Even if you’ve heard something, it has nothing to do with you. Only answer when asked. Call me if it’s about something you don’t know. There’s no need for all the fuss.” This wasn’t the first time Selena criticized Lucian after they got married. He sighed in resignation, furrowing his brows slightly, and replied, “We haven’t even divorced yet. Besides, would the Baker family allow Paul to marry a divorced woman?” “Why wouldn’t they allow it? They must be blind if they think Calista isn’t up to their standards.” Although she said so, Selena knew that this matter was challenging. The Baker family wasn’t any family, and many wealthy young ladies in their social circle aspired to marry Paul. While Calista had her support, the fact that she had a history with Lucian couldn’t be ignored. It seemed she would need to find an opportunity to gauge the Baker family’s opinion. If there was no chance, she would have to persuade Calista to consider other options. However, she would have to wait for Henry to return to handle this matter. She and Mrs. Baker didn’t get along well, and they weren’t close. Lucian didn’t know what she was thinking. He thought she had finally understood when she let the matter slide and asked, “Mom, why did you suddenly think of matching Calista and Paul?” “They’ve been going out together. It’s so sweet. They wouldn’t need me to meddle.” After saying this with a touch of annoyance, Selena looked at him disdainfully and walked away. He was so useless he couldn’t even keep his wife. Five minutes later, Lucian instructed David, who came in to collect some documents, “Find out where Calista is right now.” Upon hearing Calista’s name, David instinctively tensed up. Fortunately, he had prepared in advance and had just sent someone to investigate her whereabouts. He replied, “Madam Calistą, having lunch with Joshua Xanders from Justa Workshop.” It was important to know his boss well. Before, Lucian didn’t like Calista, and although David had shown her some respect, he always referred to her as Miss Everhart. 1/4 +15 BONOS However, he had recently noticed a change in Lucian’s attitude, and now he addressed her as Madam Calista They were having lunch at a restaurant elegantly decorated with elements
Chapter 106 Your Wife Is Slipping Away Calista didn’t continue to complain but instead threw a confused look at Paul. She doubted that he understood Lucian at all. She sighed and thought to herself, “Looks can be deceiving.” Seeing Paul’s determination, she couldn’t bear to expose Lucian’s true character. Well, they had grown up together since childhood and were like brothers in blood. She didn’t want to be the one to be the wedge between them. It was afternoon, and there was less traffic. It only took ten minutes to drive from the apartment to the mall. Since Paul had offered to drive her there, she didn’t want to seem ungrateful and simply dismiss him. After all, he wasn’t her hired driver. Calista unbuckled her seatbelt and asked, “Do you want to go inside and take a look? Maybe help me pick something out?” She asked out of politeness, and it wasn’t a sincere invitation. She had no idea that Paul would immediately turn off the engine and agree. The two of them strolled from the first floor to the sixth floor, skipping the floors where women’s and children’s products were sold, and explored the other floors but couldn’t find anything suitable. Given her relationship with Mr. Xanders, the gift couldn’t be too expensive, as it might make him feel pressured. At the same time, it couldn’t be too cheap, or it would seem too casual. It also couldn’t be personal items like clothing or shoes, as they weren’t close enough for that. Eventually, they decided to choose a set of decent painting supplies. During her time in Justa Workshop, Calista had the privilege of seeing Joshua’s painting, which was masterful. Each stroke of the paintbrush was sharp and powerful, creating pieces that were moving and exquisite. +15 BONOS She took the gift box handed to her by the store clerk and thanked Paul, saying, “Thank you so much for today. I’ll treat you to a meal next time.” Choosing this set of items required much effort from Paul, and Calista didn’t expect him to be so knowledgeable about painting supplies. She had thought that only people in the hobby would know the details nowadays. Paul replied, “It’s no big deal.” The two of them exited the store, chatting and laughing. Not far away, Selena, who had witnessed the whole scene, quickly pulled the person beside her behind a pillar. Monica Clinton had been walking just fine but almost stumbled when Selena pulled her. Once she regained her balance, she asked, “What are you doing? Why are you acting so suspicious? They had been best friends for many years, but Monica had been abroad for the past few years and had just returned a few days ago. Today was the first day after she got over her jet lag. Initially, they had planned to go upstairs for coffee, but when they arrived, they saw a store selling art supplies. Selena said she wanted to pick out a set for her daughter–in–law. Selena asked, “What do you think of those two people?” It was quite crowded, but Monica immediately spotted a man and a woman walking together not far away. Although she didn’t know why Selena asked her about them, she answered honestly, “They look pretty good together. A handsome guy and a beautiful woman. Both are in good shape with matching personalities. They seem naturally compatible, like a perfect couple. Their children will surely be good–looking.” MONE Monica Clinton had recently become a grandmother, so she tend to associate everything with children. She had been abroad for several years and had only heard that Lucian got married, but she hadn’t seen his wife, so she didn’t recognize Calista. Seeing Selena’s frown, Monica Clinton teased, “Why do you look so upset? Are you going through menopause that you’re jealous of young people in love now?” Selena rolled her eyes at her friend and asked, “Tell me, who looks better, that man or my son? Monica Clinton felt that her friend’s obsession was getting a bit out of hand, but she reluctantly answered under Selena’s intense gaze “They are of different types. The man looks gentle and has a patient personality, while Lacian is more reserved and looks more intimidating. But in terms of looks, they both are handsome” Selena sighed. “Being patient is good. What woman wants to spend her life
Chapter 105 An Amicable Divorce Lucian’s attention was focused on the documents. +15 BONOS Hearing this, he replied indifferently, “Lily, it’s all in the past.” Lily’s eyes were red, and her lips were pale from biting them. She persisted, “I was your girlfriend for two years. I should have the right to know, right? When we were together back then, did you ever like me?” She had never asked this question before. Their relationship had started by accident. They often met to discuss preparations for the school dance, and the news of their relationship spread as they spent more time together. Later, someone teased them, asking if they were together. Lucian didn’t respond, probably due to his pride as a top student. He couldn’t bother to explain something so baseless. But to others, his lack of response meant it was true. So, Lily became his girlfriend as a matter of course. Lucian looked up and met her gaze. Unlike her, he was calm and composed. “I..” “There’s no need to explain yourself,” Lily interrupted him and smiled mockingly, which looked worse than crying. She took two steps back. “Why would I ask such a stupid question? A man who hasn’t even held my hand for two years, how could he possibly like me? But it’s not your fault either. After all, you told me early on to pursue my happiness if I met someone I liked.” Perhaps it was because she did not want to hear another word from Lucian. Lily left after speaking, without even bothering to pick up the documents on the table. Lucian closed his eyes, pinched the bridge of his nose, and opened them wearily after a few seconds. He picked up the phone and said, “David, take the documents to Lily.” 1/4 +15 BONOS After David left with the documents, he opened the top drawer of his desk, where he kept a wristwatch. The metal back cover was engraved with the logo of a luxury brand, but it was not a model released by their company. It was custom–made. The same as the one he had given Paul at the welcoming party, but this one was a bit older. Calista held a pair of tweezers, carefully attaching a thumb–sized porcelain fragment back to its original piece when her phone rang. She had put her phone on silent, fearing it would affect her work. But when the screen lit up again, she glanced at it. It was a call from Jacob. He had called her a few times before, trying to persuade her to return to the studio to work. Calista put down the tweezers, wiped her hands with a damp cloth, and then answered, “Mr. Xanders.” “Are you free later? Let’s have a meal together.” Jacob was around the age of her grandfather. Calista couldn’t bear to refuse him, so she agreed. “Alright, I’ll let you know after I make a reservation later.” It would be impolite to meet him empty–handed. Besides, he had taken great care of her during her time in Justa Workshop. After tidying up a bit, Calista set off to prepare to buy some gifts at the mall. Just as she opened the door, she met with Paul, who was right outside her door. A hint of surprise flashed in his eyes, followed by a teasing remark, “Did you know I was coming and prepared to greet me at the door?” Calista knew he was joking and didn’t take it seriously. “Why are you here?” Paul replied, “I happened to be passing by and thought I’d come up to see if you were settling in well. The security guard at the entrance told me someone tried to bother you last night.” r +15 BONOS He didn’t mention that he had specifically asked the security guard to keep an eye on her apartment The security guard had called him when he noticed someone causing a racket. However, he was out of town at the time and couldn’t come in time. Calista stepped aside. “It’s been resolved. Would you like to come in?” Paul glanced at the high heels she was wearing and asked, “You’re going out?” Yes, I have dinner plans with an older friend tonight, and I was planning to pick up a gift for him at the mall.* “There’s a mall nearby that has everything for all ages. I happen to be free this afternoon. Would you like me to take you there?” Calista didn’t know about the mall Paul mentioned. Although she had been living here for some time, she mostly stayed at home and had only been to the restaurants nearby. “Sure, that would be helpful.” You’re even more polite now after all these years. Back then, our families used to be so close. You even climbed over the wall into my backyard to pick fruits. I didn’t see you feeling embarrassed back then.” Calista chuckled embarrassedly. “I was young and didn’t know any better.” Back then, her mother was still around, and she was pampered by her parents, spoiled, and a bit mischievous. When she saw that the pear trees in Paul’s yard had fruits, but no one picked them, she climbed over and picked two. Little did she know that Paul was reading a book in the yard and caught her red–handed. She was startled, and one of the pears slipped from her hand and landed on his head. Thinking back on it now, it was embarrassing! Paul seemed lost in thought, with nostalgia in his eyes. Those were the days, huh!” 3/4 +15 BONOS Calista thought he was reminiscing, and she comforted him with a smile. “People have to grow up and live life.” Paul looked at her and smiled wryly. “The way you are now, it feels like I’m seeing my former philosophy teacher from classes.” Calista remained silent, and he changed the subject. “How are things with Lucian?” Whenever this topic came up, Calista felt a surge of frustration. She had lost the lawsuit last time, and she would have to wait three months before she could file another appeal. Moreover, judging by the situation of the previous trial, the outcome wouldn’t change even if she filed for divorce for another time. Her mood visibly turned sour. “No, I doubt it will ever be resolved in this lifetime. Do you happen to know any lawyers better than Timothy?” Although Paul knew Lucian and Calista were going through a divorce, he hadn’t paid particular attention to it. He only heard a few things occasionally when they gathered with friends. He didn’t expect it to escalate to the point of going to court. He shook his head, “No.” At least not in recent years. He hadn’t heard of lawyers in the legal and political circles who could match Timothy’s skills. “It might be hard if you want to take the legal route. It might be better to have a conversation with Lucian. Even in divorce, it’s best to part amicably.” Calista was even more frustrated and began to protest, “You don’t understand. He’s not a reasonable person at all. He’s the stubborn type. It would be a miracle if he would listen to reason. He’s intentionally delaying the divorce. It’s his way of making sure everyone would suffer with him.” Paul looked at the Calista with a complex expression and said, “Lucian is not the type to hold grudges.”
