Chapter 135 Orion dashed to the backwoods, scanning the surroundings, but Xanthea was nowhere to be seen. His expression was sharp, his eyes filled with intense panic and anxiety, as if he could devour the entire eerie, silent forest. However, the next moment, a breathtakingly beautiful figure sliced through the darkness, rushing straight toward him from the cliff like a sprite of the night. Xanthea, terrified and disoriented, was running so fast the scenery around her blurred. Suddenly, she saw the tall, striking figure of a man–Orion! At that moment, she felt as if she had seen her savior, and without a second thought, she dashed toward him. “Ah “Orion, save me!!!” She crashed into his arms like a disheveled, enchanting fox, knocking him back a few steps, his heart skipping a beat. “Xan,” Orion held her tightly, his heart finally settling, “Don’t be scared, I’m here.” “Snakes! There are snakes! Ahhh!” Xanthea screamed, climbing up his body, clinging to him as if he were a lifeline. Snakes? Orion focused his gaze and saw a patterned snake swiftly approaching. As Xanthea moved, the snake leaped up. Fortunately, before it could wrap around her ankle, it found itself in the firm grasp of Orion. He crushed its life out, its body bursting open, blood splattering, and the two pieces of its writhing body on the ground sent a clear signal to its mates, who quickly entwined and ceased their pursuit. Orion continued approaching, his murderous eyes and the blood dripping from his fingertips spreading a thick scent of blood through the forest, sending the snakes scattering in a desperate escape. “Ah ah ah, did you see them? So many, everywhere!” Xanthea clung to him, her face buried in his chest too frightened to look. Orion felt the girl in his arms shivering, the murderous intent in his eyes fading away, leaving only a deep. tranquil tenderness, “It’s okay, they’re gone now.” He gently parted her back, comforting her as if she was a scared child, his voice soft as he coaxed, “Don’t be scared. With me here, nothing can hurt you.” “Really? You’re not lying to me?” Xanthea’s voice trembled as she slowly lifted her head, still afraid to open her eyes. “When have I ever lied to you?” That’s right, he hadn’t! Chapter 135 Reassured by his promise, Xanthea dared to slowly open her eyes. Just as he said, the fearsome, patterned snakes that had littered the ground were gone. She almost cried with relief, “Ohhh, I was so scared, you can put me down now.” Hearing her request to be put down, Orion paused. In his arms, the girl’s dress was disheveled from running and the scare, her shoulder bare, her slender form fitting perfectly against him, every tremble of her soft skin bringing him an incomparable sense of pleasure. Like a poppy flower, irresistibly addictive, impossible to let go. “I think “Ah!” I just saw another one.” Before he had even finished speaking, Xanthea clung to him tighter, as if to merge into him, eliciting a low moan from him, “Mmm.”
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 134 “It’s nothing serious, just that the butler saw you heading into the woods after leaving the party and was a bit worried, so he sent me to check on you. The backwoods are vast and it’s getting dark. Even though there are street lamps, it’s easy to get lost since you’re not familiar with the area, Ms. Nightshade.” “No worries.” Xanthea brushed off her hands and stood up. “I’ll just take a quick look at the flowers and head back.” “Alright!” Linda smiled, her eyes twinkling mischievously. “Do you have a favorite type of flower, Ms. Nightshade? I can help you look for it here in the woods.” “Yes, but it’s quite rare. I love irises.” “What a coincidence!” Linda clapped her hands excitedly. “Just a few hundred yards ahead, there’s a cliff, and right at the base, there’s a patch of wild black irises!” “Really?” Xanthea looked at her, surprised and delighted to find wild irises in the woods, especially rare black ones. “Let’s go take a look then.” “Sure, I’ll come with you, Ms. Nightshade!” Linda followed her for a while but then suddenly stopped, turned around, and dashed off. In the villa’s four–story library. Anthony Marlowe finished signing a contract and stood up, shaking hands with Orion, smiling. “Mr. Lockwood, it’s a pleasure to work with you. Here’s to a successful project!” “Likewise.” Orion, with his typically cool demeanor, seemed unusually congenial today. “You seem in good spirits today, Mr. Lockwood. Any particular reason?” “Is the company of a beautiful lady reason enough?” Leonard chimed in from the side, causing Anthony to look at Orion in surprise, ‘Really? Mr. Lockwood, do you have a girlfriend?” Orion glanced at Leonard, “Not exactly.” Leonard laughed, sensing that it might just be a matter of time, especially with his own meddling. “How about a game of golf, Orion? It’s been a while since we played together! “I’m busy.” “Expected, but you’re too blunt! Ditching your friends for a lady, huh? Well, I always believe in returning a favor. Xanthea at the party in the backwoods. Don’t thank me too much when you see her later!” In the backwoods. Xantfiea walked about four or five hundred yards and came upon a steep cliff, but there were no black irises at its base. Chapter 134 Perhaps the plants were too sparse or hidden among the bushes? She moved closer, parting the bushes, searching thoroughly but found nothing. “I can’t see them.” She turned, curious to ask Linda, but found that the servant had vanished without a trace. A rustling sound came from the bushes, and a strong sense of foreboding suddenly overwhelmed Xanthea. She was about to leave when she saw a cluster of snakes with menacing patterns slithering out, their heads peeking out and tongues flicking red. In an instant, her eyes widened in utter terror, and she screamed at the top of her lungs.. Orion had just arrived at the party when he heard a familiar scream from the backwoods. His expression turned grave, and he ran swiftly towards the sound. Terrified, Xanthea screamed and ran, zigzagging along the path. Snakes, with their poor vision and patience, struggle with sharp turns due to their linear bodies. She should have been able to lose them with a few twists and turns, but she still felt them closing in, about to wrap around her ankles. Chapter 135
Chapter 133 “Xanthea sure has guts to splash wine on Ms. Marlowe. No wonder she’s Mr. Lockwood’s woman!” “Ms. Marlowe might be the gem of the Marlowe family, but Xanthea is the heiress of the Nightshade Group. They’re both high and mighty, so neither is going to let the other get the upper hand!” “You’re thinking too much. With Mr. Lockwood backing Xanthea, it’s not just about splashing wine on Ms. Marlowe. Even if Xanthea slapped her, the Marlowe family wouldn’t dare start a feud with the Lockwood Group over it. Let’s just enjoy the show.” After being cooped up in the car all day, Xanthea had hoped to unwind at the party but ended up becoming the center of gossip thanks to Queenie’s drama. Just sitting there, she could feel the eyes and hear the whispers all around. Feeling fed up, Xanthea stood and walked towards the serene woods behind the mansion. “Ms. Marlowe, what happened to you?” At the mansion’s fourth floor, by the elevator, the butler was shocked to see a disheveled Queenie rushing toward the study. Queenie, tears streaming down her face, exclaimed, “Louis, I need to find Ori. I have something important to tell him!” “Mr. Lockwood and Mr. Marlowe are discussing important matters in the study with Mr. Anthony. You can’t go in now. Wait until they are done.” “No, I need to see Ori now! He can’t be deceived by that wench any longer.” Louis frowned, seeing that Queenie wasn’t listening and signaled to nearby servants. They quickly approached and gently but firmly pulled her away from the fourth floor. “When will she ever learn?” “Let me go! Let me go!” “Can’t you see that wench drenched me in wine? Am I not the young lady of the Marlowe family, or is she?” “Why are you all siding with her against me!” Queenie screamed hysterically, on the verge of a breakdown. A servant, who was usually friendly with her, hurried over, “Miss Queenie, please stop crying. You’re only punishing yourself for someone else’s mistakes.” “Yes, exact Queenie thought, “It was all that floozy’s fault, deceiving Ori, slandering him. Once I handed all the evidence to Ori, that girl would regret her actions. But having just been insulted and splashed wine, Queenie felt she couldn’t let it go; she had her pride as a Marlowe. Biting her lip, Queenie looked at the servant beside her, a plan forming in her mind. “Linda, I need you to do something for me Xanthea strolled deeper into the forest, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery, which lightened her mood. Chapter 133 The woods were alive with colorful flowers and chirping birds, and playful little animals scampered about. She had pocketed some snacks from the party and now sprinkled them on the ground, attracting a group of fluffy–tailed squirrels. “How adorable,” she murmured, squatting down to touch a squirrel’s tail when she heard someone calling, “Ms. Nightshade, Ms. Nightshade?” Turning around, she saw an unfamiliar woman, dressed in the Marlowe family’s uniform. “I’m here.” Linda caught up, smiling broadly when she saw Xanthea, “Oh, Ms. Nightshade, I’m so glad I found you!” “Is there something I
Chapter 132 Chapter 132 A familiar voice rang out, and Xanthea looked up to see Queenie storming towards them, clutching her smartphone like a weapon. Oh, wasn’t she just a sobbing mess, gasping for breath, and now she’s bounced back so quickly?” “Ms. Marlowe?” Several men looked at her quizzically as she made her way directly to Xanthea, slamming her phone down in front of Xanthea, “Everyone back off, I need a word with her alone!” “Alright then.” As the crowd dispersed, Xanthea gracefully lifted her wine glass, gently swirling its contents, “Ms. Marlowe, it seems that you have taken quite a blow, crying yourself hoarse like that.” “You vixen, don’t get too smug just yet. Look at what I have here!” She lit up her phone, and Xanthea, rather than showing any hint of fear or panic, simply smiled at the Images displayed. – “I don’t know whether to compliment you on your photography skills or to praise my photogenic face. Even these blurry shots look unbelievably gorgeous.” “Flaunting yourself around other men like that behind Ori’s back, and you still have the audacity to say. such shameless things? Just wait until I send these photos to Ori and see how you argue.” “Make sure to send me a copy too; I quite like this set.” Xanthea took a sip of her wine, cutting her off. “What did you say?” Queenie looked at her incredulously, her face showing evidence of Xanthea’s flirtatious encounters, yet Xanthea seemed utterly fearless. Was it all an act? “Aren’t you afraid that Ori will see this and dump you?” Xanthea laughed heartily, her laughter shaking like the leaves of a seductive enchantress. “Ms. Marlowe, perhaps I wasn’t clear enough earlier in the hall. Orion and I are hardly the couple madly in love.” What? Queenie paused, a hopeful gleam returning to her eyes. She had thought as much. How could Ori possibly choose someone like Xanthea as a girlfriend? Xanthea must be making it all up! However, Xailthea’s next words crushed any flicker of hope Queenie might have had. “He’s the one hopelessly smitten, daydreaming and chasing me relentlessly. If it weren’t for his deep adoration and wealth, I would have kicked him to the curb long ago. You have no idea how annoying he can be, always wanting hugs and kisses.” Shut up you wretch!” 1/2 *Chapter 132 Queenie, red–eyed and tearful, raised her hand to slap her. She thought, “Ori was a gem, brilliant and unparalleled, his virtues too numerous to count, and she was with him only for his money?” Xanthea caught Queenie’s hand swiftly, splashing the contents of her wine glass across her face, “Wake up, Ms. Marlowe. If you’re going to be this aggressive, don’t blame me for being rude.” “Aah!” Wine drenched Queenie’s face, ruining her delicate Lolita dress, leaving her trembling with rage and screaming in frustration. “You wretch, just you wait! Do you really think I’d believe a word you say? I’ve recorded our whole -conversation and I’ll hand it over to Ori along with the photos!” Xanthea’s lips curled into a slight smirk, “Whatever.” After Queenie stormed off furiously, Xanthea became the talk of the entire party.
Chapter 131 Xanthea turned her face towards Leonard, and for a moment, the sheer beauty of her presence left him utterly stunned. He coughed awkwardly, his tea almost spilling in a most ungainly manner. He finally understood why Orion had fallen so deeply for her! Growing up among the elite, Leonard had encountered all sorts of celebrities and heiresses of prestigious families. He thought he was immune to beauty, but he had never seen true allure until now. He had to look away! If he kept staring, he might start coveting his friend’s woman! Had it been anyone else, he might have pursued her without any moral consideration, but not with Orion. Orion would kill him. “You’re strikingly beautiful. So much so, I’m afraid to take you to the party.” “Why? Is your girlfriend going to be there? Should we go separately?” “That’s not it!” Leonard shook his head, mainly worried about attracting unwanted attention from wolves in sheep’s clothing that might compel Orion to confront him.. At the back hill, an animal–themed party was in full swing. As Xanthea made her entrance, her radiant and graceful figure immediately captured the attention of every guest. Almost every man was mesmerized, lavishing praises upon her, while the women, envious yet curious, speculated about her identity. Leonard had just entered the party when the butler informed him Anthony wanted him in the study. He nodded and before leaving, cautioned a group of eager–looking men, “This lady here is Miss Xanthea Nightshade from the Crestwood family–a distinguished guest brought by Mr. Lockwood today.” He emphasized “distinguished guest” to clue in his friends immediately. What a pity! Such a beauty, yet already spoken for! Considering Orion’s reputation, some men shook their heads reluctantly and walked away, although a few couldn’t resist approaching her with a glass in hand after Leonard left. “Please, Ms. Marlowe, don’t cry. Your eyes will swell.” “Get lost! Leave me alone!” an away t Queenie sat by the riverbank, sobbing loudly and servants trying to console her. “Irritating, all of you! Just stay away from me!” She ran towards the bad hill, seeking a quiet place to continue her crying, but unexpectedly, she saw Xanthea at Leonard’s animal–themed party. There Xanthea was, a real fox in a striking red dress, surrounded by a group of men, laughing flirtatiously. 12:32 Chapter 131 The whole party seemed to be under her spell, with even high–profile celebrities and business moguls vying for her attention.. In a fit of rage, Queenie screamed. She thought, “That cunning vixen, not satisfied with having Orion, was blatantly flirting with others! How could she be worthy of someone as good as Ori!” Determined, Queenie snapped several photos of Xanthea mingling with the men, then triumphantly walked towards the center of the party. “Vixen!”
Chapter 130 Since the collection of haute couture gowns was acquired, Leonard had invited numerous guests to admire them, including aristocrats and celebrities. Their comments were invariably the same=“lovely,” “beautiful“-but none had ever recognized the designer behind them at first glance. Matilda’s unique style was the essence of these gowns. Xanthea commented, “For my coming–of–age party, Samuel had invited her to design a gown for me. Even then, it wasn’t part of a collection, yet it was worth over a million. This animal–themed collection of yours must be over a hundred million, right? No surprise there, Marlowe Enterprises is really top–tier.” Leonard laughed modestly, “Oh, hardly that. Even the combined wealth of the entire Marlowe family “wouldn’t come close to one ten–thousandth of Orion’s personal assets, let alone this animal–themed collection of gowns. If you liked it, he wouldn’t blink an eye even if you asked for an ‘island–themed‘ gown.” Xanthea looked puzzled, “Why would he buy me an island–themed gown?” “Well, I’m just saying–if you were his girlfriend.” Xanthea rolled her eyes, “In his dreams!” Watching her reaction, Leonard smirked, sensing that Orion had a long way to go in winning her over, ahead, pick any that you like.” Was Matilda’s exclusive gown collection really just there for the taking? “GO Surprised, Xanthea looked at him and mentally tagged him as ‘generous‘ among the wealthy. “Since you’re so inviting, I won’t hold back! Out of all these gowns, the little white bunny one must suit my personality the best!” Just as she was about to grab the cute bunny gown from the wardrobe, a sexy and enticing red fox dress caught her dye. “Are you sure you’re not mistaken about yourself? From top to bottom, inside and out, where do you resemble a timid little bunny? You’re obviously more of a fox, and not just any fox–a thousand–year–old nine–tailed fox!” Xanthea was speechless. Although she knew he meant it as a compliment, almost everyone who disliked her had used that term, leaving her with no fondness for foxes. Still, these were his gowns, and it was generous of him to lend them to her. Being picky wouldn’t be appropriate. “Alright, I’ll try it.” Minutes later, Xanthea emerged from the fitting room in the exquisite ‘Sylvan Fox‘ evening gown. Leonard, who had been sipping tea, looked up at the sound. When he saw her in front of the mirror, he was momentarily frozen, his eyes glued to her. She was stunning. She looked like a celestial fox from a dream, enchantingly beautiful, hardly seeming real. Xanthea fwirled in front of the mirror, pleased with her reflection. 1/2 12:32 1 Chapter 130 She had thought her bold features combined with the seductive fox gown might look vulgar. But the gown was sexy yet adorable, with a skirt adorned with ‘nine tails‘ made of light, airy tulle. A deep. V–neck was perfectly covered by a fox mask encrusted with diamonds, and plush fox tails surrounded the off–the–shoulder neckline. The entire ensemble was romantically beautiful and dreamlike. She loved it. “I must say, you’ve got a good eye!” she complimented.
Chapter 129 Leonard thought Xanthea and Orion were cut from the same cloth, full of tricks and mischief. Xanthea arched an eyebrow. “Flattery will get you nowhere, Mr. Leonardoodle. Shouldn’t you be comforting your cousin right now?” “Her? No need for comfort. If she’s really over her crush on Orion, I might actually thank you on behalf of her parents.” Leonard started, then paused as if something just occurred to him. “Wait, what did you just call me?” With a sly smile, Xanthea tucked her handkerchief into her pocket and turned to leave. “Xanthea, you’re picking up Orion’s bad habits!” Leonard called after her, catching up. “Don’t use my nickname, got it?” “Why not? I think it’s quite catchy, easy to pronounce.” “Easy to pronounce?” Leonard looked at her in amazement. “Are you sure you don’t know Orion well?” How could her thoughts about his name sound exactly like Orion’s? “Of course, but I’m curious, why do you know so much about me?” Leonard shrugged. “Because of something related to you, I guess.” “You mean like enjoying The Masked Singer‘?” Leonard laughed; he didn’t know what ‘The Masked Singer was, but he knew that the only song on Orion’s music playlist was “Butterfly,” sung by none other than Xanthea. “Yeah, I’m a fan of yours!” Indeed, Xanthea nodded. “By the way, there’s a ‘Zoo‘ party happening on the back hill. Interested in going?” “A ‘Zoo‘ party? Xanthea glanced towards the brightly lit back hill. No wonder music had been drifting over from that direction; they were throwing a party. “Is it full of animals?” “Not exactly, it’s a costume party with an animal theme.” “A costume party? Sounds fun, let’s check it out.” “Sure, but” Leonard eyed her attire, “you can’t go dressed like that. Come upstairs with me and change into an evening gown.” Xanthea looked down at herself. Her neat casual outfit from the morning had become crumpled and dirty after encounters with overzealous fans. No wonder Queenie had been so judgmental earlier. In the Whimsy Haven Estate, fourth floor. -Leonard pressed a remote, and a vast, luxurious wardrobe slowly opened to reveal dozens of intricately Chapter 129 designed evening gowns themed around various animals–bunnies, peacocks, ragdoll cats, deer, foxes. Although Xanthea was prepared, she was still stunned by the sight. These themed gowns weren’t the garish, over–the–top costumes you’d see at a typical comic con. Each was uniquely designed, meticulously tailored to blend the characteristics and habits of the animals with the model’s body proportions, achieving a harmonious and beautiful synergy between humans and nature. It was her first time appreciating the beauty of animal–themed gowns. Previously, such costumes had been tagged as ‘sexual‘ or ‘vulgar,‘ but these were different. And looking at the design ideas and sewing patterns, Xanthea found something familiar. “This can’t be Matilda’s work, can it?” she asked, recognizing the signature style of the internationally renowned designer. Leonard straightened up against the wall, a look of admiration flashing in his eyes. “You really are the Nightshade family’s heiress, your eye for detail is impeccable!”
Chapter 128 “I asked you to play along, not to get carried away! Who gave you permission to actually kiss me?” Xanthea frantically wiped her hand while glowering at him. She had never been kissed by a man before. Wait a minute! She almost forgot, that night at the Rlan Hotel, not only did he kiss and hold her, but he also touched her, stealing many of her firsts! Back then he was drunk, but now sober, he still dared to take advantage! He was nothing but a thorough scoundrel! “It makes it look real,” Orion glanced towards the direction Queenie had run off to and offered Xanthea a handkerchief. “Ms. Nightshade, are you not pleased with the outcome?” Xanthea caught his suggestive gaze and thought, “So it’s all my fault, is that it? If he hadn’t been flirting around and leading on every girl in sight, would I have needed to resort to such drastic measures to fend off his little admirer?” Really? After all this, he still claimed it was all an act? Leonard stared at the photo on his phone of Orion tenderly kissing Xanthea’s hand, already calculating the hefty price Orion would have to pay to secure it. “Pleased, very pleased!” Xanthea gritted her teeth and snatched the handkerchief, rubbing the neatly folded, expensive fabric into a crumpled mess on her hand. “Mr. Lockwood, your acting is so convincing, you could win an Oscar!” “Not as good as yours, Xan.” Orion spoke and headed upstairs. Xanthea stood frozen for a few seconds before realizing what he had said. Xan? Ugh! How revolting! She shuddered, her skin crawling with goosebumps. He was not only despicable and shameful but also petty and vindictive.All she did was tease his little admirer by calling him ‘Ori, and this was his response. But true, ‘Ori did sound quite sickening! “Tsk tsk,” Leonard watched his retreating figure and shook his head. “You two really know how to play.” “Don’t start with that nonsense!” Xanthea protested innocently. “There’s nothing babyish about it, we’re just… Just acting” Just acting Leopard finished for her, “No need to explain, I get it. But what about that hickey on his neck? 1/2 Chapter 128 Looks fresh, must have been left recently, right? Orion drove here today, don’t tell me you guys were playing around in the car.” “Enough!” Xanthea cut off his increasingly wild and inappropriate speculations. “Believe it or not, it wasn’t a hickey, it was a mark of my victory!” A mark of victory? It was the first time Leonard had heard such a description and couldn’t help but laugh, picturing the scene in his mind. No wonder Xanthea looked so reluctant earlier; she had been forcefully brought into the fray. Impressive, after all this time, the secret admirer Orion had started to enforce his love. “I’ve always heard that you are a woman of great intelligence, the top scholar of Crestwood Hall Academy. Seeing you today, I can say your reputation is well–deserved! Your reaction and acting earlier, even almost believed it was real,” If it were anyone else insulted by Queenie, they would either have a public outburst or just walk away. But Xanthea responded with a smile, using the simplest yet most devastating method to hit back at Queenie, extinguishing her hopes as well. Truly, a silent killer in action. ךְ. Chapter 129 Chapter 129
Chapter 127 Xanthea flashed a mischievous smile at Queenie, her pale fingers tracing a path down from Orion’s neck, slowly sliding under his crisp suit jacket to his white shirt. With a gentle flick, she undid the top button, revealing a bright red bite mark beneath. Queenie’s face turned ashen when she saw the mark, the color matching Xanthea’s lipstick perfectly. It hit. her like a thunderbolt, leaving her rooted to the spot in shock, Was Xanthea really Ori’s girlfriend? Had they already slept together? “Wow-” Even Leonard couldn’t help but whistle at the sight. The intensity of that bite mark spoke volumes. “Is that right, Ori?” As Xanthea’s fingertips grazed another bite mark along his collarbone, her voice carried a hint of playful coquetry, her allure nearly palpable. Anyone would be ensnared by her charm. Yet, Orion remained unmoved. Seeing Queenie so devastated, Xanthea almost pushed away the dull man in front of her. Unexpectedly, a strong hand gripped her slender waist and pulled her into a fiery embrace. “Hmm.” “Yes.” Orion’s features were taut, his eyes tinged with a fierce red. Even his monosyllabic reply was gruff and hoarse, his body trembling with a tingling sensation, as if about to explode from her teasing. Devilish woman. He clenched his teeth, his brows furrowed as if struggling to maintain his crumbling sanity. How dare she provoke him so openly, wasn’t she afraid he’d lose control and take her right there? “Ori.” If Queenie had held any sliver of hope before, it was now shattered at the sight before ber. “How could this be, how could this be!” Xanthea was nearly suffocated by his overwhelming embrace, frantically pushing against his chest but to no avail. Hey! Was he trying to play along or was he trying to kill her? Failing to break free, she stepped hard on his shoes several times and twisted around until he finally released her. She was catching her breath, about to speak, when Orion suddenly grabbed her hand and planted a kiss on it. Xanthea froze, her eyes wide in shock- Unable to withstand the onslaught of emotions, Queenie covered her mouth and ran out the door sobbing, “Wahhhhh.” 1/2 Chapter 127 How could this be? How could this be! Ori had truly fallen under the spell of this temptress! As a man so famously indifferent in matters of the heart, he kissed a woman so passionately in public! “Click.” The sound of Leonard snapping a photo with his phone brought the stunned Xanthea back to reality. She swiftly pulled her hand back, staring at Orion as if he were crazy, “What are you doing?” Orion slowly lifted his gaze, a trace of amusement still lingering in his desire–filled eyes, “Ms. Nightshade, didn’t you want me to play along with your little drama?” Chapter 128
Chapter 126 “Boo hoo hoo.” Thinking about it, Queenie didn’t know if she was too scared or just felt too wronged, but her tears suddenly fell, causing the clueless servants around to gather, soothing her with kind words and almost alerting her parents. “And you have the cheek to cry? Apologize to Ms. Nightshade right now!” Leonard furrowed his brow, his patience wearing thin. He had given her an out, and if she didn’t take this chance to gracefully apologize to Xanthea and seek her forgiveness, continuing to create a fuss, he feared she might not even be able to get away with it! After all, he knew Orion’s temper well; crossing his boundaries was a disaster. Xanthea watched Queenie who had first hurled insults and then played the victim burst into tears, and couldn’t help but chuckle. Every year brought its share of oddities, but this year seemed particularly rife. There were those who played innocent lambs to the public but were snakes behind the scenes, those who bullied others by flaunting their powerful backers, and now here was one who spoke madness and played the victim first. Seeing so many, she had inevitably accumulated some experience. Each type of oddity required a different approach. For instance, engaging in a war of words with Queenle would only spoil her own mood, and physical confrontation was out of the question–especially not in Marlowe Manor. Even if she detested Orion, she wouldn’t ruin his business. So, the best approach was. “It’s alright, Ms. Marlowe, you don’t need to apologize.” Xanthea offered a gracious smile that surprised everyone present. They thought, “Despite Ms. Marlowe’s rude remarks, Ms. Nightshade wasn’t upset but dismissed it with a smile. That was the poise and grace befitting a lady of her standing!” Queenie looked at Xanthea, puzzled, only to see her suddenly wrap her arms affectionately around Orion’s neck, her lips curling into a bright smile, “It’s my fault, actually. Due to some special reasons, I intentionally hid my romantic relationship with Orion, which led Ms. Marlowe to misunderstand.” What? Queenie’s eyes widened in disbelief. She was Ori’s girlfriend? Impossible! Absolutely impossible! Leonard was Qrian’s close friend and knew him best. Orion was known for his ascetic lifestyle and disinterest in romance, which was why Leonard always advised her not to waste her affections on him. And now suddenly, there was a girlfriend in the picture? This must be some sly fox telling lies! Xanthea suddenly pulled Orion closer, her lashes fluttering and dimples showing, her radiant smile making 1/2 12:321 Chapter 126 her seem like a temptress capable of unsettling the world. Orion was momentarily stunned, his usually cold eyes gleaming with an intense light, trembling rapidly as her gentle laughter filled his ears–‘Orion, ‘romantic relationship‘. “It’s not true!” Queenie shouted in despair, “You’re lying! Ori would never fall for someone like you. Let him go–don’t tarnish him!” Xanthea’s brow lifted as she observed the emotionless, seemingly soulless man before her, narrowing her eyes in displeasure. What was he thinking? Not playing along? He shouldn’t forget that it was he who insisted on bringing her here, causing her to be humiliated for no reason, and now he wouldn’t even partake in this little act? Chapter 12/ “Such a shame, I’ve already tarnished him.”