Chapter 165 Since returning from Everglade, the CEO had become like this. What else could be the reason? He had done everything possible to make Ms. Nightshade happy, and to keep her by his side for even a second longer. He perfected every detail concerning her. But what about Ms. Nightshade? A mere word from Matthew had whisked her away, and when she left, she didn’t even give the CEO a glance or a goodbye. The CEO must have been heartbroken, and it was taking a toll on his health. He buried himself in relentless work to numb the pain, At first, he thought if the CEO got hit hard by this, letting go of Ms. Nightshade might actually be a good thing. hing was off. But as days passed, he realized something The CEO’s relentless work, despite his illness, wasn’t about forgetting Ms. Nightshade, it seemed more like he was driving himself to an early grave. He had severely underestimated Ms. Nightshade’s place in the CEO’s heart. At some point, Ms. Nightshade had moved from being the CEO’s long–time secret crush to his lifeline. Now that the CEO was ‘sick‘, he might truly be in danger without her, which is why he had decided to seek her out today. “Does it matter if I care about him? What matters is why he’s destroying his health like this. As his assistant, why aren’t you encouraging him to rest and take his medication? If your words don’t work, you could at least inform his family or friends!” “It’s no use.” Cedric shook his head, and Xanthea looked puzzled, “No use?” “Ms. Nightshade.” Cedric looked up at her, and grabbed the briefcase beside him, “Are you still upset about that day at the Realm of Illusions audition when the CEO rejected you on the spot?” Xanthea frowned, unsure why he suddenly brought this up. Cedric continued, “Do you know why the Realm of Illusions script ended up with Oli–hee Média?” “Yes, Orion told me. The board didn’t approve the project’s proposal and risk assessment, so he sold it to my uncle for double the price. My uncle knew how much I loved the script, so he bought it.” “Is that what the CEO told you?” Cedric chuckled, “Ms. Nightshade, you didn’t believe that, did you?” Xanthea’s frown deepened, “What do you mean?” “The CEO holds 90% of the shares in the Lockwood Group and has absolute authority in the boardroom. It’s not just about a scrig; even the multi–billion–dollar acquisition case that stirred up last year was under his direct command. No one dares to speak against him, nor question his decisions.” As he spoke, he pulled out a document from his briefcase and placed it in front of her. “The Realm of Illusions script was transferred to Oli hea Media for free by the CEO, and I handled it 1/2 12:41 I Chapter 165 myself, so I kept a copy of the contract.” “What?” Xanthea looked at him in disbelief; then she picked up the contract from the table and slowly flipped through it. The deeper she read, the more her doubts grew. The script was transferred for free to Oli–hea Media by Orion? How could that be? And why? But it was there in black and white, complete with the seals of Starlight Media and Oli–hea Media. “My uncle clearly said he bought it from Orion for two million dollars, and Orion confirmed it. How can this be?” Cedric watched the disbelief in her eyes, “Ms. Nightshade, if you still don’t believe it, you can call Mr. -Lopez.”
Category: My Beloved Has Risen from Death’s Embrace (Xanthe and Mr. Lockwood )
My Beloved Has Risen from Death’s Embrace Novel
After Xanthea died, she witnessed the cold and ruthless president, Orion Lockwood, had actually killed the couple who harmed her. He knelt before her grave with bloodied hands, kissing her body, saying, “Xan, it’s too cold underground, I’m here to accompany you.”Reborn into her youth, Xanthea tormented the shameless bastard, Matthew and the despicable woman, Miranda, while also curiously investigating Orion, as they were completely unfamiliar before. Unexpectedly, as soon as they became familiar with each other, she was cornered by the man. “Xan, you know full well that I love you deeply, yet you dare to provoke me! In that case, never think of leaving me.”
Chapter 164 Xanthea apologized profusely, “I’m so sorry, how about I send you the diner’s address and you can go with Jason?” “No need.” Ben shook his head, “If it’s not with you, it’s not the same. I’ll just grab something quick at the studio. But remember, you owe me one now. Don’t forget to make it up to me next time.” “Absolutely!” Xanthea laughed, “I’ve got to run now.” “Goodbye.” Ben watched her retreating figure; his smile slowly faded as she walked away. She had been on the phone just now, and it seemed like she said Orion? Orion Lockwood, chairman of the Twin Towers and the elusive power behind Starlight Media, owned an extensive business empire that spread across the country and he was also the youngest tycoon listed in the international Forbes rankings. The last time they planned to have lunch, Xanthea left midway, supposedly to meet him, and that fancy LANDSCAPE handkerchief she carried matched his style too, Jason watched Xanthea’s hurried departure and wondered aloud, “Ben, Ms. Nightshade has stood you up twice now. What or who could possibly be more important than you?” In the industry, countless celebrities lined up to dine with Ben, only to be declined. Yet, he had warmly Invited her twice and both times she had declined the invitations! If it weren’t for Ben’s feelings for her, Jason would think she was incredibly ungrateful! Ben turned away, “A formidable competitor.” A formidable competitor? Ben was the heir to the Jones family fortune, the sole successor of the Jones Group, a celebrated actor who had swept all major awards in the entertainment industry, and had millions of followers on Twitter. Who could possibly rival him? At the Twin Towers café. “Ms. Nightshade, over here!” Cedric, sitting by the window, saw Xanthea and quickly stood to wave her over. Xanthea scanned the café, making sure he was alone, then asked, “If we’re meeting at your company’s building, why isn’t Orion here?” “Ms. Nightshade, please, have some coffee first.” Cedric pushed a cappuccino towards her and sighed after a few seconds. “The boss is sick.” “What?” Xanthea paused while setting down her purse, “Sick?” “Yes, he’s been running a fever for three days now, a severe one, and he hasn’t told anyone or taken any 1/2 Chapter 164 medication. He’s been busier than ever at work, acting like a tireless robot. Sometimes, he might go an entire day without eating, and he never sleeps regularly.” “Last night, around three in the morning, he suddenly called me to bring some documents over. When I arrived, I discovered he had been working all night. Out of curiosity, I wanted to see when he would leave for home. I saw his office light stay on until dawn. I don’t even know if he slept at all.” “Why would he do that?” Xanthea was stunned, “Is the Lockwood Group in trouble?” “No, the operations are running smoothly.” “Then he must be out of his mind!” she raised her voice unconsciously, “He had such a high fever, yet he did not take medication, nor take rest, and still worked like crazy; does he not want to live?!” Looking at her intensely concerned expression, Cedric was somewhat puzzled, “Ms. Nightshade, do you. care about the boss too?” Cedric shook his head as if he had asked a foolish question.
Chapter 163 “She’s just stunning.” “Xan!” “Benjamin?” Xanthea heard his call and glanced at the time. It was almost lunchtime. “Are you done shooting? Let’s grab some lunch.” “Sure, I’ve been waiting for you.” Benjamin noticed the slight sweat on her forehead and offered her a handkerchief, “Tired? Wipe your sweat.” “No, I’ve got my own.” Xanthea pulled out her handkerchief, and carelessly wiped her face. Benjamin caught a glimpse of the logo on it was that a men’s handkerchief? “Xan, I saw your performance just now, unexpectedly brilliant. I didn’t realize you were such a natural talent. I’ve been in the industry for ages and haven’t seen many like you. I bet this show will be a hit once it airs!” If it were anything else, Xanthea might have been modest, but Realm of Illusions was not just going to be a hit–it was going to be a sensation, a household name! “You have a good eye!” She smiled and gave him a thumbs–up. Benjamin laughed. They were about to get into the car when Xanthea’s phone rang. She looked at the screen at an unfamiliar number that somehow seemed vaguely ‘familiar. “Excuse me, I need to take this call. “Go ahead.” “Hello?” Xanthea stepped aside, and as soon as the call connected, she heard Cedric’s voice, “Ms. Nightshade, this is Cedric.” So it was him! She remembered his business card, so that’s why the number looked familiar “Cedric? How did you get my cell number?” “Ms. Nightshade, let’s not focus on that. I have something to discuss with you.” Cedric hesitated, then resolved, “Are you free for lunch today? Can we meet?” Xanthea glanced at Beramin and shook her head, “I’m booked for lunch, and I have scenes to shoot in the afternoon. Whatever it is, you can tell me over the phone.” “It’s not something I can explain quickly over the phone.” Chapter 163 “Then text me, or maybe we can meet another day?” “No!” Cedric immediately refused, sounding quite anxious, “Ms. Nightshade, can’t you spare even a little time today? It’s about the President.” “Orion?” Raising her eyebrows, Xanthea paused for a moment. Cedric thought she would refuse outright or hang up when she heard ‘President. Just as he was about to add that it was important, he heard her say, “Alright, send me the address. I’ll come now.” Now? He paused, looking surprised. Hadn’t Ms. Nightshade said she was already booked? Xanthea ended the call and, looking slightly embarrassed, walked back to Benjamin. “Something came up. and need to step out for a bit. Looks like I can’t join you for lunch, sorry for bailing on you again.” “Is it something important?” “Mhm,” Xanthea nodded, “very impor of disappointment, Benjamin smiled generously, “If it’s important, you should go take care of it. Don’t take care of it. Don’t worry about me.”
Chapter 162 She had seen it all before, and she had no choice but to acknowledge the truth. After all, just that face alone could attract thousands of followers; even the company’s CEO had fallen for her, not to mention Benjamin. April tried to subtly convey her thoughts, but they were bluntly exposed by her friend, leaving her speechless. But she didn’t believe it was the Movie King who initiated things. Having been in the entertainment industry for years, he had seen all types of women. Could he really fall for Xanthea just because she was beautiful? Surely, Xanthea must have used some tricks to seduce him! “Enough!” Isabella said; she was clearly annoyed as she ended the call. “I asked you to keep an eye on Xanthea to see if she’s slacking or acting like a diva and to gather dirt on her, not to report on how popular she is with the boys!” April looked over, only to see Benjamin opening a gift box; his eyes revealed a captivating smile, one she hadn’t seen even through a screen, and it made her eyes burn with jealousy They hadn’t even started working together, and things were already heating up. At this rate, their, relationship would surely progress quickly! With so many celebrities and big names admiring the Movie King, who usually ignored them, why should Xanthea, a mere newcomer, get him? If their relationship were exposed now, wouldn’t millions of fans and netizens tear Xanthea apart? Perhaps, this could nip the budding threat in the cradle. Thinking of this, she took out her camera and captured a moment of them exchanging meaningful glances. “Scene thred, take one–mall shootout, action!” The clapperboard sounded, and Xanthea, dressed in a sleek and black outfit, descended smoothly from * the top of the building, like a ray of dawn slicing through the long night. Gangsters, who were filled the various floors of the mall, fired at her as soon as they spotted her. Amid the hail of bullets and the smoke of gunfire, she moved like a graceful butterfly, dodging and weaving as she pulled out a flashbang and a row of chillingly sharp silver needles from her utility belt. With a fierce burst of white light that temporarily blinded and deafened everyone, Phoenix took the opportunity to scatter the silver needles. Her movements were agile and precise, and her fallen cap revealed a cascade of beautiful hair and an astonishingly gorgeous face. The camera loomed in for a close–up of her eyes–mischievous yet seductive, an intricate mix of emotions; yet upon closer inspection, they were utterly devoid of warmth. She released the last two needles, knocking down her adversaries. “Cut” Kevin’s voice rang out, and everyone on set came back to reality; they were all amazed and 1/2 Chapter 162 complimentary of the action scene, Xanthea was both stunning and fierce! Her perfect proportions, her breathtaking beauty visible from every angle, and her sharp movements combined with that playful yet seductive gaze, were a visual and emotional spectacle that captivated everyone present. “Fantastic, just fantastic!” Kevin excitedly stood up from behind the camera to applaud her. “Xan, I thought your first action scene might be challenging, but you nailed it in one take, flawlessly. Absolutely incredible!” “Thank you for the compliment, Director!” Kanthea unhooked her harness, transitioning from the fierce and enigmatic Phoenix back to her lively and sunny self; such transformation caused Benjamin, who was still lost in the scene, to momentarily daze before he too broke into a smile; his eyes were brimming with deep affection as he watched her.
“Of course not!” Xanthea extended her invitation, “How about I treat you to lunch today? I’ve already made a reservation.” “Sounds good,” he agreed with a smile, stunning April, who stood nearby. Just moments before, she had eagerly introduced herself to him and asked for his assistance in rehearsal and to join her for lunch, only to be refused. Now, he was going out of his way to help Xanthea, pulling out the chair, explaining the nuances of action scenes, and even accepting her lunch invitation. This blatant favoritism made her feel like a fool! Why though? Just because Xanthea was the lead actress? anyone. Benjamin had worked with numerous top–tier celebrities and never showed special treatment to There were even rumors he had snubbed a Best Actress. So why was he now showing such favoritism towards Xanthea, a newcomer? April’s gaze slowly shifted to Xanthea’s striking beauty. “Actually, I have a gift for you!” As if suddenly remembering, Xanthea pulled a light coffee–colored gift box from her bag and pushed it towards him. “A gift?” Benjamin looked surprised. “Yes, I really liked the crystal ball you gave me last time, so I picked out something you might like as well; consider it as a belated welcome gift. Go ahead, open it.” A gift? Movie King had given her a gift! Those familiar with Benjamin knew he never had personal dealings with co–stars, let alone any intimate Interactions, like exchanging gifts. It seemed like Xanthea was exactly as Isabella had described, someone wild! Clutching her hands, April turned and walked away to a secluded spot and quietly called Isabella. 1/2 Chapter 161 From the other end, amidst noise, Isabella’s impatient voice came through, “Hello? Is there anything you want to say? Make it quick; I’m busy!” “Isabella, you asked me to keep an eye on Xanthea in the crew, and I’ve definitely noticed something off about her!” “Oh?” Upon hearing Xanthea’s name, Isabella, losing interest in the photo shoot for the magazine, stepped aside to inquire more curiously, “Off? What do you mean?” “She and Benjamin just met, and he’s already treating her really well, helping her with acting, inviting her to lunch, and I heard he even gave her a gift. You’ve worked with Benjamin before and know he never gets this close to colleagues. There’s got to be something fishy going on!” “Ugh.” Isabella rolled her eyes dismissively, “I thought you’d discovered something big, acting so agitated. It’s no big deal; Xanthea just has a way of making men fall at her feet, willingly doing things for her.”
Chapter 160 “Benjamin, you made it.” Kevin rose from behind the camera, “Everything’s set up for the shoot. Just waiting for everyone to get here and we’ll be rolling. I’m thrilled to be working with you on this one!” “Director Smith, you’re too kind.” Benjamin smiled, “To be able to work with you, such an illustrious director in the industry, I feel honored. By the way, where’s Xan? She’s got the big opening scene today.” “She just called; said she’ll be here in ten minutes. She should be here soon.” “Great, I’ll wait for her in the lounge.” As Benjamin made his way to the temporary actors‘ lounge, April approached him, extending her hand. shyly, “Hello, Benjamin, I’m April from Starlight Media. I’m playing Vivian in this movie, and I’ve been a huge fan of yours for years!” “Hello.” Benjamin gave her a slight nod but didn’t take her hand, leaving April to awkwardly retract her own. She pressed on, “I have a scene with you later, my first time acting with my idol. I’m a bit nervous. Could we possibly run lines together?” “Don’t be nervous. Just treat it with calm.” Benjamin’s eyes scanned the lounge for a place to sit. April quickly pulled out a chair, next to her, but he headed straight for another spot, where a nameplate read “Xanthea“. True to his reputation, he kept his distance from fellow cast members, particularly actresses. His professionalism was probably why he’d managed a scandal–free career over the decades. Still, April wasn’t easily dissuaded. Catching up to him, she ventured cautiously, “Benjamin, I’m playing Vivian this time, and we’ll have many scenes together, and I know you expect a lot from your co–stars. I’m worried I haven’t grasped the script thoroughly and might not meet your standards. Could I buy you lunch and get some pointers?” She used the script as a pretext, yet Benjamin still declined, “If the director cast you, he believes you’re the right fit. If you’re unsure about something, the scriptwriter might be the better person to ask.” Rejected thrice, April stood awkwardly, unsure whether to stay or go. Assistant Jason, used to seeing actresses trying to make an impression, was about tointervene when Xanthea arrived. *Ben!” “Xan!” Benjamin’s face lit up as he saw her; he stood, pulling out a chair, “You’re here: Come, have a seat.” “Thanks. Am late again?” “Not at all, just got here too.” Xanthea had barely sat down when she noticed April standing off to the side. She got up to greet her, “Hi, I’m Xanthea from Oli–hea Media.” Hi I’m April, playing Vivian. 1/2 Chapter 160 April was still reeling from the cold shoulder when she was taken aback by Benjamin’s evident warmth towards Xanthea. Was it because she was the lead actress? “Xan, you’ve got a big scene today- the mall shootout. It’s Phoenix’s first appearance and it’s a doozy with all the action. Are you ready?” “Yeah.” Xanthea nodded, “I’ve done a lot of research and even took some lessons. Should be good.” “Actual filming is different from rehearsal and watching films, especially fight scenes. It’s easy to get hurt. if you’re not careful.” He opened the script on the table, laying it out in front of her, “Let’s go over some safety points before we start shooting.”
Chapter 159 “You guessed right, someone did try to hurt me, and it was that girl who just apologized to me. Yesterday, I had some unpleasant misunderstanding with her at the Marlowe Manor, and after a few drinks last night, things escalated into a fight. She was the one questioning me, and she also smashed my phone. But for some reason, she suddenly came over to apologize today, which is totally out of character for her. Perhaps she got a lecture from her family elders.” “Oh, I see!” Matthew’s face lit up with understanding at her words. That explained everything. He had been overthinking, but, “Xan, why did you come to Everglade with Orion?” “Because” Xanthea pulled out a black iris from her bag, “of this!” “An iris?” “Yeah, I heard that the Everglade mountains have these rare black irises, and I’ve been wanting to check them out. Just so happened that Orion was heading to the Marlowe’s, so I hitched a ride.” “Just to see the flowers?” “What else did you think, Matt?” “Nothing, it’s just…” He parked the car by the roadside, looking at her intently. “Xan, from now on, if there’s anywhere you want to go or anything you like, just tell me. I’ll take you there, no matter how busy I am. Could you maybe not get too close to other men? I’m not doubting you, but I get W, and jealous too. You’re so beautiful and amazing; I’m afraid someone better might come along and steal you away from me.” Xanthea saw the pleading and humility in his eyes, a stark contrast to the indifference and impatience of his past self. Since “The Masked Singer” event, she had sensed something was off. He had betrayed her before, openly bonking Miranda in the backyard. But after the show aired, he changed drastically, showering her with attention, suggesting trips, giving little gifts and treats. And now, he had rushed over from Crestwood to Everglade overnight just because something she said. Especially this morning, she heard him argue with Leonard; given his tendency to flatter those in power, how would he have the guts? Was i it because her act was lousy enough to have her resentment revealed, one she couldn’t hide no matter how hard she tried, and he saw it through, fearing he was losing his grip on her, which was why he started pursuing her determinedly, or…had he fallen for her? Ha. A mocking smile flickered in Xanthea’s eyes. Fine then, she could repay him for all the suffering she endured in her past life! “Matt, you’re overthinking it. No matter how many wonderful people might like me, you’re the only one int my heart. 1/2 “Chapter 159 She spoke emotionlessly, the words so fake she almost gagged, but Matthew looked utterly delighted, his eyes, which were fixed on her, brimming with joy, “Me too, Xan. You’re the only one for me.” Xanthea smirked. It turned out that when someone was in love, they really couldn’t see the disgust hidden in their partner’s eyes, just as she had been foolish in her past life. Three days later. On the set of Realm of Illusions of the Glory Building. “Movie King’s here! Movie King’s here!” A buzz of excitement spread. April, who played Vivian, was checking the script, and then immediately stood up, her gaze drifting eagerly towards the crowd.
Chapter 158 *Nothing much, it was off and on so I didn’t catch it all. Just bits and pieces, so I wanted to hear your side of the story.” As Matthew spoke, he swept a glance downstairs; with a pleading look, he asked, “Is that okay, Xan?” “Alright.” Xanthea’s eyes flickered as she searched her mind for the right words. No matter what, she had to smooth over last night’s conversation perfectly – no suspicions from his side, no flaws in her plan for revenge! “Really?” Matthew’s face lit up with excitement, “That’s great; let’s go!” I “Ms. Marlowe, I appreciate your apology, but I have an urgent matter today and can’t stay for lunch, sorry.” As Xanthea and Matthew descended the stairs, they brushed past Orion. “Xanthea!” Leonard called out to her, puzzled by her sudden change of heart, “You’re not staying? This breakfast is…” “Sorry, Leo, I’ll pay you for the dress, and about the m you a proper apology.” “Ms. Nightshade.” I’ll treat you to dinner next time, I promise. I owe Cedric stepped forward, and Xanthea nodded at him, “Goodbye!” “Ms. Nightshade.” How could she just leave like that? Cedric watched the man beside him, who couldn’t take his eyes off her departing figure. His gaze was darkened, his face pale without a trace of color. Last night, the boss had stayed by Ms. Nightshade’s bedside, caring for her through the night without a wink of sleep. At dawn, he ordered someone to prepare a hangover cure and clothes, and had personally cooked an elaborate breakfast, even going as far as to procure the seafood sea urchin from Everglade, spending two hours meticulously cooking this special dish, his hands even injured in the process. Cedric looked down at the slowly forming droplet of blood on his fingertip. Yet, Ms. Nightshade not only didn’t stay for breakfast but also didn’t even glance at him as she walked away with Matthew. She had said goodbye to everyone else, so why couldn’t she even speak a word to the boss? Even a simple farewell would have been something. Ms. Nightshade clearly didn’t care about him at all. Perhaps he was now in more pain than being physically. stabbed. “Xan, I got you breakfast – crab cakes, sticky rice, and a cappuccino, all your favorites. Matthew opened the coffee lid and handed her the breakfast, “Have some coffee first; it’ll help with the hangover.” N “No need, I’m not hungry.” Xanthea set down the food, eager to ask him, “What did I actually say to you last night? That made you come looking for me in the middle of the night?” “It wasn’t much, really. I just sensed something was off on your end and rushed over. At first, when you 1/2 Chapter 158 picked up my call, you seemed happy, said you missed me, but then suddenly, your mood crashed. You were loudly asking why, why doing this to you?” Xanthea’s heart skipped a beat, “And then?” “I thought someone was trying to hurt you, so I asked worriedly what was wrong, if someone was,” He didn’t finish his thought about Orion, “trying to do something to you, but then you hung up.” That was it? “That’s all?” “That’s all,” Matthew nodded. Xanthea exhaled deeply, relieved. She’d been so uneasy she’d said something damning. Turned out, it was just a false alarm.
Chapter 157 It seemed she had really gone all out, no wonder Queenie was storming over with fire in her eyes, clearly out for revenge. She swallowed, about to speak, when suddenly Queenie lowered her head, her voice quivering with tears, stuttering, “I–I’m sorry, Ms. Nightshade. I was rude and presumptuous yesterday, not knowing who you really were and making all those nasty remarks. I hope you can forgive my foolishness and not hold it against me.” ??? Xanthea was utterly baffled by this sudden apology. Had she heard right? This die–hard Orion fan, after being told that Xanthea was Orion’s goddess and having been physically subdued by her after a night of heavy drinking, was now apologizing? Had she been knocked silly or had she been knocked into submission? “Xan, Queenie’s such a proud person and she’s never lowered her head to anyone before. She came all the way here today just to apologize to you. Aren’t you gonna forgive her and sit down for a meal together?” Catching the hint in her cousin’s words, Queenie choked up and added, “Ms. Nightshade, if you could find it in your heart to forgive me, please stay for a meal.” Xanthea: “O–Okay.” “Xan!” Matthew looked at her anxiously. He couldn’t believe that Orion, just to keep Xan for a meal, had gone to such lengths, even getting the entire Marlowe family involved! Under this circumstance, he couldn’t begin to imagine what it would cost him to pursue Xan in the future. Could he even compete against him? Would she really remain unswayed in such a relentless pursuit? After all, she was already reconsidering. “Matt, it’s a six or seven hour drive home anyway; we’re not in a rush this moment. Since the Marlowe family has extended such a warm invitation, why not stay for breakfast?” Leonard crossed his arms, a triumphant smile on his face, “Mr. Martinez, if you don’t mind, why not stay and join us?” Matthew clenched his fists secretly, his face grim. He had said those things to Orion and Leonard, and staying now would just be embarrassing himself further. Who knew how they would tease him at the breakfast table. “Xan, I tracked your IP and rushed to Everglade overnight not just because I was worried about your safety, but because you said so many strange things on the phone last night. I was afraid something was wrong between us; I was restless all night.” After he finished, Xanthea’s expression suddenly changed. Strange things? Something wrong? What on earth had she told him last night that made him so suspicious?! Samuel had mentioned that every time she got drunk, she would Spill her secrets, answering any question and revealing even the pranks she played as a child. If she didn’t want her secrets discovered, she should 1/2 Chapter 157 never drink! In her new life, her biggest secret was gathering evidence to ruin both Matthew and Miranda on the day of the engagement. She hadn’t spilled that too, had she? “Matt.” Xanthea frowned, tentatively looking at him, “What did I say last night that has you so worried
hapter 156 “Sorry.” Xanthea felt a deep pang of guilt upon hearing his words, “I know I can’t get you an identical one, but I can compensate you triple the original price, or if you like another designer’s work, I could arrange a custom order.” Leonard laughed, “Xan, do you think I care about the money, or do you think it was really about the dress? I was just looking for an excuse to become friends with you. Stay for breakfast and consider it your way of making it up to me, okay?” Cedric chimed in, encouraging her, “Ms. Nightshade, please stay. There’s quite a distance from the freeway, and with the morning rush hour, it’s gonna be packed. Why not have breakfast before you leave?” “Xan!” While they were talking, Matthew sent out a message, and soon, his phone rang, “It’s your mom calling.” “Mom?” Xanthea took the phone, but before she could speak, she was met with a torrent of rebuke. “Xan, you’re just too headstrong, running off without telling anyone and your phone off the whole time. Your dad and I couldn’t sleep; we were worried sick all night! Thankfully, Matthew told us where you were. He’s driven all night to pick you up from Everglade. What were you doing there alone?” “Alone?” She raised her eyebrows slightly, her gaze inadvertently sweeping over Orion downstairs, “Didn’t Uncle Oliver tell you why I was in Everglade?” “He was out socializing last night, just as drunk as you. You two are just like kids, irresponsible as ever! Honestly, I regret leaving you in his care.” Xanthea went silent, not expecting to be scolded along with her uncle. “Mom, my phone was broken; otherwise I would have called,” “Don’t think you can sweet–talk your way out of this. Come home now. Hearing you spend a night alone in a strange city, drunk, your dad’s furious. You need to come home and explain it to him yourself.” “Okay, I understand.” Xanthea hung up the phone, feeling dejected. She was about to decline the breakfast invitation when she noticed the eager eyes below; they genuinely seemed to hope she would join them. Her visit to the Marlowe family was unexpected, but everyone at the estate had been so warm and welcoming, eating her like an honored guest and taking care of her, even in her drunken state: It seemed rude to refuse their kind invitation now. “Ms. Marlowe?” At the doorway, a servant’s voice called out. Xanthea looked up to see Queenie, in her pajamas and slippers, hair disheveled, charging towards her like a madwoman. Chapter 156 What was she up to? Not coming to pick a fight, surely? Xanthea frowned slightly, her expression guarded. Lifting the hem of her night skirt, Queenie ran to the second floor. She stopped abruptly in front of her and then slowly raised her head. Xanthea was startled by the sight of her swollen eyes, dark circles, pale face, and scabbed lips, a groggy state as if ghosts had sucked dry all her energy – not a trace of the dolled–up Lolita from the day before. What had she gone through in just one night? Did she do that to her? Cedric had mentioned this morning that the marks on her neck were from fighting with Queenie. Xanthea had thought she’d been too drunk to defend herself properly, but seeing Queenie now, she was just relieved the latter hadn’t called the police then!