Chapter 20
Chapter 20
E
The Regal Villas, sitting along the river, were swanky homes with prices starting at a billion dollars. They mainly attracted dignitaries and the super–wealthy. As the car rolled into the neighborhood, Lenore’s eyes lit up with curiosity.
As the group reached Block 3 of Area A, Silas opened the door through the smart lock. Inside, the villa was spacious and bright, tastefully decorated in cool tones. It mirrored its owner–hoble and a bit distant.
Silas led Lenore upstairs. “The master bedroom on the third floor has never been occupied, so everything is brand new.”
“Thank you,” Lenore said politely. After he went back downstairs, she closed the door and rolled up her left sleeve. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she gazed at the black smart band on her wrist.
It was the first time Silas had been so close to a woman, and Chuck was keeping a close eye on Lenore throughout the ride. But with her incredible driving skills, Chuck knew she was not to be underestimated..
Chuck leaned over to Wayne. “Mr. Garcia, about Mr. Faulkner and Ms. Smedley- He trailed off as Silas returned downstairs, radiating authority. Chuck quickly fell silent.
Wayne flicked his cigarette, only having taken a couple of puffs. His eyes sparkled with amusement. “What’s the plan here?” He wondered, Just the third meeting and he’s already bringing her home.
Silas wore a straight face, his gaze deep and intense. “Whatever the plan is, it’s none of your business.”
The next morning, Lenore, in a white shirt, strolled onto campus with her school jacket casually draped over her shoulders. Her striking features made her the center of attention as soon as she entered.
Lenore acted as if she didn’t notice, detouring to the restroom along the way. With her earphones in, she took a call, her voice relaxed. “Got something to say?”
A deep male voice came through the phone. “Did you go to Greenvine High School?” It was Yves, calling from a different country. It was early morning in Cathayia, but for Yves, it was already noon break and that was why he was free.
Lenore leaned against the restroom partition, twirling the white carphone cord with her slender fingers. “Esther told you?
The Smedley family matters were usually kept from Yves by Troy, and he never asked about them. Lenore was sure he only knew she was at Greenvine High because Esther had mentioned t
Yves didn’t deny it. “Even though my dad brought you back for the inheritance left by my mom, he’s still my dad. And about Esther… His meaning was clear.
Lenore raised an eyebrow, her gaze cold yet detached. “As long as they don’t cross my line, I’ll show them some mercy.”
Yves fell silent for a moment. These years have been tough on you.”
Tough? Lenore had long lost touch with that feeling. She chuckled and changed the subject. *15 million dollars should be enough for you to finish your studies abroad, right?”
Yves knew living costs were high, but with less than a year left, he replied, “I can work here and get a scholarship. You don’t
have to-
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Chapter 20
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“I’ll send it over shortly,” Lenore cut him off and hung up, quickly transferring 15 million dollars to his account.
After the transfer, she looked at the remaining balance in her bark account. Just enough for my little girlfriend’s dance lessons and studies. I’m broke, she thought. She sighed, wrapped her earphones around her phone, tucked it into her pocket, and left the restroom.
Just then, she bumped into Esther by the sink. Esther paused, taken aback by Lenore’s stunning beauty. Jealousy and resentment bubbled up, nearly clouding her judgment.
Outside, Helen called out, “Esther, it’s almost time for class.”
Esther bit her lip, took a deep breath, and forced a sweet smile. “Coming,” she said and walked out. Lenore took her time. washing her hands.
“Lenore,” a soft voice called out in the hallway as Lenore approached the classroom building.
Lenore turned, her expression softening. “What are you doing here?”
“Waiting for you,” Bonnie Terrell smiled, handing her a carton of milk. “I heard you were back, so I wanted to see you. did you suddenly decide to come to school?”
Why
Lenore had always been a prodigy. She could read ten lines at once and remember everything. By ten, she had completed all her college courses. Now seeing her in high school made Bonnie feel a bit surreal.
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