Ch. 351..360

Chapter 351 Farewell Visit

Eva didn't care anymore whether he didn't want her to see the agreement because he had tampered with it or because, as he claimed, reading in the car was harmful to the eyes. Adrian had already put away the agreement, and she had no way to look at it again.

With this thought, Eva lost all interest in talking to him altogether. Adrian seemed to have noticed her inner thoughts and didn't say anything else either. The two of them remained silent throughout the journey until they reached the school. Adrian had dropped her off at school in the morning, and now he got out of the car again to pick someone up. Eva didn't move a muscle, but soon enough, she saw Adrian bringing back two little ones with him. As soon as they got in the car, they greeted her and rushed over.

Before Adrian could get back in the car, Ruby even raised her face and asked Eva in a low voice, "Mommy, did NightA Uncle agree to be our daddy?"

Eva's lips slightly parted, about to say something, but then she saw Adrian getting ready to get back in the car. So, the words that were about to escape her lips paused, and she said something else instead. "Sweetie, let's discuss this when we get home."

Ruby obediently closed her mouth and remained quiet after hearing her response. Adrian and the driver took the children home. Right before getting out of the car, Adrian whispered, "Shall we have dinner together tonight?" Hearing his words, Eva hesitated for a moment and then replied, "Next time, maybe."

In the end, Adrian still placed the design blueprint in Eva's hands.

"When you get back, if you have time after reading the agreement, take a look at this design blueprint too."

Eva looked at the design blueprint in her hands and nodded after a moment.

"Alright, you can go back now."

After speaking, Eva turned and went upstairs with the two children. Adrian leaned against the car, his gaze fixed on them ascending the stairs. When he made sure they were safe, he finally returned to the car.

Once inside, Adrian rolled down the car window and looked coldly at the scenery outside. The driver glanced at him through the rearview mirror and sensed that something was off. Carefully, he said, "Mr. Blackwood, don't lose hope. Women can be a bit proud at first, but with time, they will surely soften."

Hearing this, Adrian glanced at him and said in a faint tone, "What do you know?"

He doesn't understand, he really doesn't. Besides, his wife hasn't divorced him yet. But he didn't dare say these thoughts out loud in front of Adrian. What else could he say? He could only choose to silently take him back home. When they reached the front gate of the mansion, from afar, the driver noticed a fragile figure standing in front of the gate. Only after recognizing who it was did he quickly say, "Mr. Blackwood, Miss Morrison is here again."

Adrian, who had been lost in contemplation about the house design, furrowed his brows upon hearing this and looked ahead. Sure enough, in the darkness below the villa, Vivian stood by the entrance with a worried expression on her face. It looks like she has been waiting in agony for a long time.

Adrian pursed his lips, feeling a sense of displeasure in his heart.

Although he had made it so clear to her, it seemed like she couldn't understand his words, which made him somewhat resentful.

But then Adrian thought of something.

When he was entangled with Eva, was he also as annoying to her as Vivian is to him?

Just the thought of this possibility caused a sharp pain in Adrian's chest, and he furrowed his eyebrows fiercely.

This can't be!

Adrian immediately became more determined to break ties with Vivian. So, when the car stopped, he said directly, "You get off and make her leave."

The driver had witnessed Vivian's abilities and didn't immediately get out of the car after hearing his words. Instead, he asked, "What if Miss Morrison doesn't want to leave?"

"Then make a phone call and have Jacob send someone over."

After hearing these words, the driver understood the situation and nodded immediately.

"I understand, Mr. Blackwood."

With that, he unbuckled his seatbelt and got out of the car.

In the cold wind, Vivian tightened the strap of her bag, which contained something her mother had given her, claiming it could help her succeed.

Originally, it had only been a day, and Vivian had little chance of success at this moment. So, she had planned to wait a few more days. However, her mother urged her to strike while the iron was hot, and under her mother's encouragement, Vivian came over.

She took a deep breath.

She mustn't back down.

To her surprise, the person who got out of the car was not Adrian, but his driver.

The driver walked towards her, and Vivian glanced at the car, but it was pitch black inside, and she could see nothing. She could only turn to the driver.

"Where is Adrian?"

There were no honorifics or polite language, and her tone even carried a sense of interrogation.

Compared to Eva, the driver truly disliked Vivian's personality. She completely disregarded others just because she was a madam.

He must deal with her inquiries with this attitude.

The driver had intended to politely ask her to leave, but her current attitude instantly extinguished any polite thoughts he had. He straightforwardly said, "Miss Morrison, Mr. Blackwood doesn't want to see you. Please go back." Upon hearing this, Vivian's face dramatically changed, and she looked towards the car. "Did he tell you to say that?"

The driver nodded vigorously.

"Yes, Mr. Blackwood said so himself. He doesn't want to see you."

Vivian's earlier arrogance disappeared in an instant. Biting her lip, she approached and said, "Sir, could you please help me beg Adrian? I really have something very important to discuss with him this time."

The driver was a middle-aged man, and hearing Vivian beg for mercy softened him a bit.

But he also thought of what Adrian had said; "If she didn't want to leave, he would simply call Jacob and have him bring people over."

But it would be too unpleasant to do so.

Thinking of this, the driver could only say, "Miss Morrison, I don't want to make things difficult for you, but Mr. Blackwood really doesn't want to see you. It's freezing cold, and I advise you not to stay here any longer. Please go back quickly." "No, I can't." Vivian took a step forward, clutching her bag as if holding onto a lifeline.

"Could you please tell Adrian for me? I came to see him this time to bid farewell, is that alright?"

Upon hearing this, the driver was surprised. He glanced at the car and nodded.

"Alright, since your situation is special, I will go and talk to Mr. Blackwood for you."

"Thank you."

The driver went back to the car. Adrian, seeing him return so quickly and not sending Vivian away, frowned. "She doesn't want to leave? Call Jacob and have him come to resolve the situation."

"No." The driver instinctively waved his hand. "It's not like that, Mr. Blackwood. Miss Morrison seems to have something else she wants to discuss with you."

Adrian pursed his lips displeased. What else could she want from him? It could only be that she couldn't let go.

Unexpectedly, the driver said the next moment, "Miss Morrison said she came to bid you farewell."

"Farewell?"

 

Chapter 352 I Will Disappear on My Own

Adrian started to doubt what he heard. Vivian came to bid farewell to him? What on earth for?

Narrowing his eyes, Adrian observed Vivian standing in the bleak wind. The weather was extremely cold, and he didn't know what she was wearing inside, but she appeared trembling from the cold. Even her fair cheeks were flushed. From the surface, she did look pitiful and engendered sympathy.

But this woman, in silent deceit, had deleted the text message about Eva's pregnancy and even secretly given her five million US dollars.

Her intentions were self-evident.

If Eva hadn't given birth to the child herself, he could've really lost both of his children.

The thought of those two adorable children possibly disappearing stirred a knife in Adrian's heart.

He couldn't feel sorry for her.

If considering gratitude, he had already done enough in the past.

The Blackwood family's influence had also been utilized by the Hansen family through her. Adrian could let the Hansen family borrow it for a lifetime.

If only she could behave, things might have been different.

"Not meeting her," Adrian replied coldly, thinking about this. "If she wants to bid farewell, she can do it over the phone."

He didn't want to see her anymore.

The driver didn't expect Mr. Blackwood to be this heartless, refusing even a farewell. He couldn't say anything more since he was paid to do his job. Quickly, the driver departed once again.

As Vivian waited for Adrian to come down, she saw the driver approaching her, her expression instantly changed. "He still doesn't want to see me?" The driver nodded. "You should go back."

"No, I can't." Vivian burst into tears and collapsed beside the car. Disregarding everything, she cried out, "Adrian, please come out and see me. I came to bid you farewell. I'm leaving, yet you won't even meet your savior once?" Because they were close in proximity, Vivian's voice reached Adrian quickly.

Hearing her mention the debt of saving his life, Adrian felt his heart clench.

Sometimes, he would wonder why. Why did he owe her his life? Some things were better left undone, even though he felt guilty for thinking so.

Adrian reached up to pinch his brow, his head throbbing.

The driver couldn't bear it any longer.

"Mr. Blackwood, she's leaving. Maybe... you should go down and see her? After all, I guess it might be the last time."

Adrian realized the meaning behind the driver's words.

If she had indeed come to bid him farewell, this would be their last encounter.

He would see what she wanted to do.

Considering this, Adrian adjusted the buttons on his coat, then coldly got out of the car.

Vivian was on the verge of tears, her face already drenched as she stood in the winds, resembling a weeping figure. Her tears fell like droplets in the rain.

Upon seeing him descend, Vivian immediately approached. "Adrian, you finally agreed to see me. I thought you would never speak to me again in this lifetime."

Looking at the extremely haggard Vivian, and thinking back to how she had readily jumped into the raging river to save him without hesitation, Adrian still held a bit of sympathy.

"Why bother?" He originally wanted to take off his coat and put it on her, but then he thought about Eva and the two children, and Adrian forcefully held back this impulse.

If he owed her, then so be it. Let it be his recklessness.

He was only human, unable to be perfect in all aspects.

"I'm leaving, so I wanted to say a few words to you. Is that okay?" Vivian stepped forward, wanting to hold his hand.

Without showing any signs, Adrian took a step back, finally saying, "Just say what you need to say."

Hearing this, Vivian glanced inside and softly pleaded, "I'm freezing out here. Can we go inside and talk?"

Adrian's gaze turned toward her, his lips pursed slightly.

After a moment, he said, "Come inside. Say everything you need to tonight. After tonight, I won't see you again."

Upon hearing this, Vivian clenched her lower lip tightly.

"I understand. Don't worry, after tonight, I will disappear on my own and won't appear before you again."

Inside the house, Vivian sat on the couch, and there was a cup of steaming hot water in front of her.

After enduring the biting cold wind for a while, her body, which had almost lost all sensation, gradually regained warmth. Vivian stared at the glass of water for a long time before taking a deep breath and looking up at Adrian. "Do you have any alcohol?" she asked.

Hearing her question, Adrian furrowed his brows. "At a time like this, do you really think I would let you drink alcohol here?" he responded.

A bitter smile appeared on Vivian's face. "I knew you wouldn't agree, but this is the last time. After tonight, I will never disturb you again. Just have a drink with me. I have some things I want to tell you. Once I'm done, you won't have to remember my debt of gratitude for saving your life anymore, alright?"

Silence filled the room. Vivian dared not speak again, afraid that if she did, Adrian would simply reject her mercilessly. She could only wait.

After a while, Adrian turned around. Vivian's expression changed, thinking that he was about to refuse her, but then she heard him say, "This is the last time."

Vivian's face brightened. "You can trust me. I will keep my promise."

Adrian quickly brought over the alcohol and a glass. Seeing this, Vivian smiled faintly. "I never expected that after so many years, we would end up like this."

Adrian's hand paused for a moment at her words, and he glanced at Vivian, who was looking down. He sighed inwardly.

In his younger days, he had mistaken the gratefulness for saving his life as a different kind of affection towards Vivian. His words had caused many misunderstandings. Thinking about it seriously, she was also a victim here, grateful for her own salvation.

Considering this, Adrian's hostility lessened somewhat, though not completely. He even doubted the things Vivian had said.

After all these years of entanglement, was she really willing to leave like this?

"Whatever you want to say, you can say it now. Whatever conditions the Blackwood family can meet for you, they will fulfill," Adrian said.

Vivian noticed that he referred to the Blackwood family rather than himself personally. It seemed he was truly determined to sever ties with her.

Vivian tightened her grip on the bag in her hand and smiled, "If I want resources, money, can I have that too?"

"Of course," Adrian replied without hesitation.

Vivian continued, "Alright, then I want a five percent stake in the Blackwood family."

Originally, she expected Adrian to refuse. She had already discussed this with her mother before coming.

"When you ask him for a stake, he will definitely refuse. Then, ask him for money directly. At that point, he won't refuse you, and while he's busy writing the check, you can put the item in his glass." She had already planned everything, ready for what she needed to do.

 

Chapter 353 Once Tonight is Over

From here on, she only needed Adrian's cooperation.

Vivian was mentally prepared, waiting for him to reject her.

"Five percent of the shares? Fine."

"No? Then what should I..."

Vivian's words, which had just begun, were instantly defeated by his two words of agreement. She stood frozen in place, unable to believe what she had just heard.

Did she mishear it just now?

It seems like Adrian agreed?

Five percent of the shares?

She had previously gained some understanding of the Blackwood Group's profitability. Although it was just scratching the surface, based on what she knew, if Adrian really gave her five percent of his shares, her worth would skyrocket in the future.

But... how could he agree?

Vivian looked at him in disbelief.

"Adrian, you..."

Is he really willing to give her five percent of the shares just to cut off all ties with her?

Is he really capable of doing this?

Realizing that he would only do it for Eva, Vivian felt as if she were about to grind her teeth to pieces.

But thinking of her goal, she suppressed her emotions and smiled. "Adrian, you really wouldn't be willing to give me five percent of the shares, right? That's five percent, you know."

Hearing this, Adrian looked up at her. "Do you think it's a lot?"

Vivian asked, "Isn't it?"

"Then let's add another five percent, making it ten percent for you."

Vivian's heart skipped a beat. "Wh-what?"

She thought she misheard again, and her heart raced.

"You want to give me ten percent of the shares?"

It was too exciting. Vivian felt like she was about to agree. After all, she had originally used the incident of saving him just to stay by his side, right?

Even now, wanting to be by his side was also for the future position of the president's wife.

Why did she want to be the president's wife? Wasn't it for the money?

If she could really get ten percent of the shares, why would she still pursue it?

Vivian's heart raced, but Adrian didn't even look up. He coldly said, "Yes, but we need to sign an agreement. After you receive these ten percent of the shares, we will sever all ties. Everything I have said before will be cancelled, and you will not mention those things again."

Vivian admitted that she was really tempted.

She hadn't even thought that he would give her five percent of the shares, but not only did he give it, he added another half.

Just to distance himself from her and be with Eva...

The initially clear public sentiment took a wrong turn at this point.

Vivian bit her lip, still unwilling in her heart.

Actually... if it weren't for Eva's interference, let alone these ten percent of the shares, in the future, the entire Blackwood family would belong to her children, and Adrian's person would also be hers.

And now she could only take ten percent of the shares. On what basis?

Why should she let Eva have it?

Clearly, all of this could be hers!

Thinking of this, Vivian firmly decided in her heart.

Vivian made a firm decision and looked up with a wry smile at Adrian. "Adrian, I never expected you would go this far for her. But since you can, it means that my interference in your feelings towards her is no longer appropriate. In that case, I can only wish you happiness."

Her words surprised Adrian, and he looked at her unexpectedly. "Did you just agree?"

Vivian nodded gently. "I think you're right. Adults should maintain their dignity, and constant entanglement is indecent. Although I really like you, it's incredibly difficult for two people to truly love each other. So, I have no choice but to bless you both and hope you will always be together."

She spoke sincerely, with calm eyes and expressions, as if she had truly let go.

Upon hearing her wish for him and Eva to be together forever, Adrian's hostility vanished, and his lips curved slightly. "Thank you."

Vivian felt a pang in her heart. He truly knew how to wound her emotionally.

"So, can we sign the agreement now?" she asked.

Adrian looked at her and replied, "I'll have someone draft it and send it over tomorrow."

"No," Vivian shook her head. "Tonight. The ten percent shares, I'm afraid you might regret it."

The main reason was that after tonight, she might never have another chance to be alone with him, especially while drinking.

She had to seize this opportunity.

Obtain the shares, sleep with him, and successfully conceive a child.

Moreover, it seemed that fortune favored her, deeming her pitiful and decided to lend her a hand. She was currently in her peak fertility.

As long as she could achieve pregnancy in one fell swoop and with her life-saving favor to him, did she have any reason to fear losing to Eva? Vivian strategized in her mind.

Adrian looked at her for a while, then got up to make a phone call to his lawyer.

Seeing him leave, Vivian finally saw her chance. She immediately opened her bag, took out the item her mother had given her, and poured it into one of the cups. Quickly, she unscrewed the bottle and filled the cup with wine. After filling the cup, Vivian quickly shook it, evenly dispersing the powder.

Feeling her heart pounding and almost leaping out of her chest, Vivian had never felt so despicable before, but she had no other choice.

Who made him not choose her? She couldn't be blamed for that; she just liked him too much.

Whether it was him or the Blackwood family, she wanted them both.

Perhaps due to nervousness, Vivian's hand shook while holding the wine glass, causing some red wine stains to spill out.

She was startled and almost threw the glass away.

Coincidentally, footsteps approached from outside, seemingly Adrian returning.

Vivian's face turned pale, and she quickly placed the cup back in its original position. It was already too late, so she hurriedly grabbed a tissue from the side and wiped away the red wine stains on the table. The footsteps reached the doorway, and Adrian had returned.

And the glass of wine in front of her was still empty.

Vivian could only anxiously pour herself a drink into her glass. When she was halfway through, Adrian walked in.

"The lawyer has already drafted the agreement, and once it's done, it will be sent over. You..."

Adrian had intended to tell her to leave first, but upon entering and seeing her actions, he paused.

Vivian suppressed her nerves and pretended to be calm.

"Okay, I'll wait here. Care for a few drinks?"

After saying that, she lifted the glass in front of her and took a sip, emptying half of it in one gulp.

Adrian glanced at her.

"Suit yourself."

With that, he turned around to leave.

Seeing this, Vivian panicked and called him back.

"Adrian, don't go. I still have something to tell you."

Upon hearing that, Adrian halted his steps. "I've already said what needed to be said. Anything further is meaningless."

"Even if it's meaningless, I still want to say it. After all, this is our last night, or rather, the last bit of time before your lawyer arrives."

 

Chapter 354 He Disappeared!

Vivian picked up the cup from the table and finished the remaining contents. Then, in front of Adrian, she poured another full glass.

Holding it in her hand, she gently swayed it.

"Consider it a matter of giving me a little dignity for saving your life once. Let's part on good terms, shall we?"

Adrian's thin lips almost formed a straight line, his gaze cold. Finally, he sat down in front of her.

"Accompanying you for a drink is considered parting on good terms? Isn't the double share I gave you enough for that?"

A bitter smile appeared on Vivian's face.

"I knew you would think so, but Adrian, my feelings for you are real. Even if today you weren't Mr. Blackwood, just an ordinary person, I would still like you. Do you know why I asked for that 5% of shares? It's simply because you are someone who is only at peace when owing others. If I didn't make any demands, you would never see that I genuinely wanted to cut ties with you. This way is better now. I have taken shares of your company, and from now on, you won't feel indebted to me anymore, right?"

After speaking, Vivian raised her glass.

"I wish you happiness."

Her hand was raised in mid-air, but she received no response.

Vivian's arm grew tired from holding it up, but she refused to give up.

Finally, just when she thought tonight would be a failure, Adrian took up his glass and carelessly clinked it against hers, then took a few sips.

"Is this dignified enough?"

He placed the glass back on the table, making a slight clinking sound.

As Vivian's heart pounded, she gripped the glass tighter.

Did he drink it?

She had finally succeeded!

Although Adrian had only taken a few sips, she had prepared for this and made sure he wouldn't drink too much or only take a sip to pretend. The amount of that substance was sufficient. And he had more than just a sip.

Next, she only needed to stay here for enough time. With this in mind, Vivian finished the remaining drink in her cup, the chilliness of the liquor giving her a cold sensation as she swallowed it. The effects should kick in after approximately twenty minutes. After they take effect, she can't just be with him once; she needs to do it multiple times to ensure that she can get pregnant. Vivian took a deep breath and got up, saying to Adrian, "I'm going to the restroom." Adrian frowned as he watched her enter the restroom. Not sure if it was just his imagination, he felt that something was off about Vivian today.

Perhaps it was due to such a drastic change that made him feel that things weren't that simple. However, the five percent ownership she mentioned helped alleviate some of his worries. Adrian didn't think much about it anymore; he just sent a message urging the lawyer to act quickly and called Jacob to come over immediately.

Even though things hadn't developed between him and Eva, he wasn't certain if he could get back together with her. But since he had the intention to pursue her again, he couldn't keep spending time alone with other girls. After making the phone call, Adrian went outside and stood alone by the door. The cold wind blew, dispelling some restlessness that had been building up. It would take Jacob another ten minutes or so to arrive, and Adrian planned to wait for a while at the entrance.

Not knowing how long he stood there, he heard faint footsteps behind him, followed by Vivian's voice. "Adrian, what are you doing here?" Vivian's voice carried a slight tremor, and there was a hint of panic in her gaze, which gradually disappeared after seeing him.

She had been scared when she came out and couldn't find Adrian. It took her a while to locate him, and she thought he might have gone out to find someone else. Of course, what worried her the most was him going to find Eva. She wouldn't let that happen.

Approaching, Vivian spoke softly, "It's cold outside, and you're not dressed warmly. Let's go inside." As Vivian got closer to him, Adrian instinctively took two steps back to maintain a distance.

His thick eyebrows furrowed slightly. Whether it was because Vivian had been bothering him or because Jacob hadn't shown up after a long time, he felt extremely annoyed, and even his body radiated a restless heat. As the wind blew, Adrian surprisingly found some comfort amidst the cold. This eerie feeling made him alert.

Looking at Vivian, whose eyes showed a bit of panic, and recalling the glass of liquor he had just consumed, Adrian didn't want to doubt the person in front of him if he had the choice. After all, she was the one who risked her life to save him. But the restlessness in his body reminded him that something was off tonight. Coming over without reason, demanding ownership, wanting to drink alcohol - whatever she said, he agreed to it all. With these thoughts in mind, Adrian strode quickly towards the outside.

Vivian was startled and hurriedly caught up with him. "Adrian, what are you doing?"

"What's wrong?" Adrian's footsteps stopped abruptly, his eyes fixed on her with a deep gaze. "What do you think?"

Under his penetrating gaze that seemed to see through her, Vivian felt a sense of being exposed. She averted her eyes guiltily. "I... I don't know what you're talking about."

However, Adrian sneered and turned away without a word. Vivian, seeing this, hurriedly tried to follow him, but Adrian's pace was too fast for her to catch up. In no time, she had completely lost sight of him.

Not only did she lose sight of him, Vivian also had no idea where she had walked to. Clutching her coat, she walked nervously forward.

It wasn't because she was cold, but because of the effects of the drink she had just consumed. When she had left earlier, she hadn't seen Adrian, so she had finished his leftover drink.

Since they were going to be together anyway, she might as well have had some. But now, Adrian was nowhere to be found.

Vivian pulled out her phone and, with trembling hands, dialed her mother's number.

Meanwhile, after tucking Ruby in and making sure Dylan was also well covered, Eva turned off the main light in the room, leaving only a small nightlight on. She closed the door behind her and left.

With both children fast asleep, the room was unusually quiet. Eva didn't feel sleepy at the moment, so she opened the agreement that Adrian had given her earlier when he came to pick her up.

She hadn't had a chance to read it in the car during the day, so she could only read it now. She carefully went through the contents of the agreement, which were the same as those she had sent to Adrian, with no changes. When she reached the end, she saw Adrian's signature.

All she needed to do was sign her name, and both agreements would take effect.

Thinking for a moment, Eva put down the agreement and went to her study to fetch her pen. Just as she was about to sign her name, the doorbell rang.

Eva paused, looking up towards the door. Who would come at such a late hour?

 

Chapter 355 Staying Longer Will Cause Trouble

Eva reluctantly set down her pen and went to the entrance. As she lived alone, she was always cautious and had installed surveillance cameras and a peephole at the door. After reaching the entrance, she first checked the monitor screen to see who was at the door. But when she saw the figure and face on the screen, Eva suddenly froze. Adrian? Why would it be him? What is he doing here in the middle of the night?

Although he was not a stranger, Eva, given their relationship, wasn't keen on opening the door, despite not fearing for her safety. If there was something important to discuss, a phone call would suffice. But... thinking about the soon-to-be signed agreement and the increased opportunities for him to interact with the children in the future, she hesitated.

With that in mind, Eva sighed and walked to the door. Adrian had been waiting in front of Eva's door for a long time, but she didn't open it. He lowered his gaze, looking down at the tips of his own feet. At this time, he didn't have any hope that she would come to open the door for him.

So, he pressed the doorbell, hoping for a stroke of luck.

If she didn't hear it... then it's fine.

So Adrian lowered his gaze and waited for a long time, but no one came to open the door. Just as he was about to leave, feeling dejected, the door suddenly opened.

Hearing the sound, Adrian almost couldn't believe it as he looked up at Eva.

When their eyes met, Eva was startled by Adrian's appearance.

Previously, she only saw his figure in the surveillance, and only half of his face was visible, so she couldn't see it clearly.

Now that they were face to face, she noticed that Adrian's face was very red, like he had been drinking.

And his eyes, something seemed off about them too.

Could he have had too much to drink and come here to cause trouble?

Thinking of this, Eva took a step back to maintain distance with him and asked, "It's late, what are you doing here? Do you need something?"

Adrian slightly pursed his thin lips. Yes, it was already late, so what was he doing here? What could he do in his current situation by coming to her? He shouldn't have come, even from the perspective of trying to win her back, he shouldn't have disturbed her by coming here.

But, he didn't know what he was thinking, he just subconsciously found his way here.

At a time like this, he only wanted to find her.

With these thoughts, Adrian breathed lightly and said, "I made a mistake."

A mistake?

Running here in the middle of the night, ringing the doorbell, and then saying he made a mistake, did he think Eva was a fool?

However, as she spoke, Eva sensed that something was off about his breath, so she furrowed her brows and asked, "Why are you breathing so heavily? What have you been doing?"

Her voice was gentle and refreshing, not a deliberately lower tone of gentleness, just naturally pleasant to hear.

In addition, she was probably ready to rest, so she was wearing pajamas and her hair, which was usually tied up during the day, was softly draped over her shoulders.

Her eyebrows and eyes were naturally relaxed, beneath her petite nose were irresistibly attractive red lips.

Adrian's breathing tightened, feeling that the heat source on his body seemed to be intensifying.

He forced his gaze away from her face and said, "I didn't do anything, I'll leave."

After speaking, Adrian turned around with a strong will.

He couldn't stay here any longer, staying longer might lead to trouble.

In front of others, he might still be able to maintain control.

But the person standing in front of him was the woman he loved. It would only add fuel to the fire.

"Wait." Unexpectedly, just as he turned around, Eva called out to him from behind.

So, Adrian's footsteps came to a halt.

It wasn't that he didn't want to move, but his body simply didn't listen to his brain's commands.

In the confrontation between his body and his brain, Adrian stood rooted to the spot, unable to move forward or turn around.

Instead, Eva walked over and directly stood in front of him.

Expressionless, Eva placed her hand on Adrian's forehead.

As soon as her hand touched his forehead.

Eva immediately recoiled from the scorching sensation.

"Why...why are you so hot?"

Previously, when she opened the door and saw his flushed face, she thought he had been drinking. That, she assumed, was why he had rung the doorbell so late at night. But as they talked, she couldn't detect even a hint of alcohol on him.

Yet his face was very red, his breath heavy as he spoke, and he even said he had made a mistake.

This puzzled Eva, and indeed, touching his forehead, he was burning up.

"You were perfectly fine when you left tonight. Why did you suddenly develop such a high fever? What did you do?"

How much time had passed since then?

"Given the severity of your fever at this late hour, maybe I should call an ambulance." After saying this, Eva felt it wasn't right.

"I think waiting for an ambulance would take too long. It's better to go to the hospital right away, but..."

It made her worried to leave only the two kids at home if she accompanied him to the hospital.

However... Eva bit her lip and glanced at Adrian, who seemed somewhat delirious with his burning state. After mulling it over, she decided to go with him.

"Alright, I'll go with you. But call Jacob now and ask him to come to the hospital as soon as he gets the message, and when he arrives, I'll..."

Before she could finish her sentence, Adrian, who had been standing frozen in place, suddenly took a step forward and embraced her.

The words that were about to leave Eva's lips vanished instantly, leaving her stunned in place.

All she heard was Adrian's heavy breathing and the unceasing heat radiating from his body after he pulled her close.

Initially, she had intended to push him away, but looking at him in this state, she guessed his fever had muddled his mind. Should she really call an ambulance?

Just as Eva was about to push him away and call an ambulance directly, Adrian struggled to speak beside her ear. "No need to go to the hospital."

The hot breath he exhaled onto her ear made Eva shudder a few times, and she instinctively tried to avoid him. "Why don't you need to go to the hospital? You have such a high fever..."

"I'm not...feverish. It's V... Vivian..."

His words were stuttered, but Eva instantly understood - It was not a fever and it was related to Vivian.

 

 

Chapter 356 Will You?

Realizing that Adrian hadn't been drinking or had a fever but was burning up all over for another reason, Eva couldn't help but swallow hard. Probably due to surprise, her lips slightly parted, and after a moment, she gently bit her lower lip.

"So, what's the reason? You know you're in this condition, why did you come to me?"

The person holding her remained silent for a long time before responding.

"I... don't know," his voice sounded somewhat lost. "Besides you... I don't know who else to turn to." With that, he held her tighter and closed his eyes, burying his face in her neck. It was uncomfortable for him, but this embrace and her scent brought him some solace. At least he knew it was her by his side and not someone else.

"You don't know who to turn to, so you come to me?" Eva asked, a mix of anger and helplessness in her voice. "What good is it for me to get involved? Given our relationship, do you think I would actually help you?"

After saying that, she pressed her hands against Adrian's chest and forcefully pushed him away. Adrian staggered backward, leaning against the wall. His eyes were drooping, his face flushed with heat. Despite that, he restrained himself, looking like a pitiful dog.

Eva really wanted to knock him out with a stick and send him away. It was the first time for him to be deceived by a woman like this.

"You can go wherever you want, but if you end up getting deceived like this, it's better if you don't live anymore. Just dig a hole and bury yourself."

Leaving these harsh words behind, Eva went into the house and closed the door. The sound echoed loudly in the hallway, and after the echo faded away, the hallway became eerily quiet. Only Adrian's heavy breathing remained, as he struggled to control himself.

Although it was uncomfortable, Adrian had managed to hear every word she said. Seeing himself lose control like this, she must be very angry and disappointed, right? Not to mention her, he was disappointed in himself as well.

How could he ever repay the debt of saving his life? How could he make things right again?

Perhaps he didn't deserve to have her in his life anymore, perhaps...

Adrian felt his consciousness growing fainter and fainter. It was almost as if the door that had been closed earlier suddenly opened again.

He thought he was hearing things.

But soon, a pair of slippers appeared in his line of sight. When she came out earlier, he hadn't noticed, but now he saw that she was wearing a pair of fuzzy blue slippers with cartoon patterns on them, exactly like the ones she used to love as a child.

He lifted his head slightly, his gaze lost. Eva's face was turned towards him, but her eyes didn't meet his. In a cold voice, she said, "Come in first, I'll pour you a glass of water, and then we can figure out what to do." Hearing her words, Adrian was somewhat taken aback, thinking he had misunderstood. "Are you helping me?"

"Don't overthink it!" Eva quickly interrupted him. "It's purely because you mentioned taking care of two children. Since I agreed to it, I can't just stand by if something happens to you. If you were fine today, then whatever happens to you on the road wouldn't be my concern. But now that you're here, if anything happens to you later, I won't be able to escape the consequences. So I don't want to bring trouble upon myself. Understand?"

She explained everything in detail. With the same expression and demeanor, it was unclear whether he had actually heard her words.

"Did you hear me?"

Adrian looked up. "Hmm."

Oh well, he seemed completely oblivious to what she had said, probably lost in his own thoughts. What else could Eva say to him? "Come in."

She could only step back, making way for Adrian to enter.

Adrian looked into her room but hesitated to take a step forward.

"What's wrong? Don't you want to come in? Then I'll leave..."

Before she could finish her sentence, Adrian walked directly into the room.

Once inside, Eva pulled him towards the living room sofa, instructing him to sit there and not move while she fetched him a glass of water.

"It should be cold," he suddenly said.

"What?" Eva thought she must have misheard. "You want to drink cold water?"

"I need ice-cold water, but cold is fine too."

"It's winter..."

She stopped herself midway, realizing something. Instead of arguing with him, she went into the kitchen and instinctively opened the refrigerator. Because it was winter, there was no frozen mineral water in the fridge, only some chilled beer.

Would chilled beer do?

Given his current condition, he probably needed to cool down urgently, right?

Considering this, Eva took two cans of chilled beer, intending to bring them out to Adrian. But then, she remembered that Adrian had recently been hospitalized for a stomach hemorrhage. Drinking chilled beer at a time like this...

After a brief hesitation, Eva put the two cans of chilled beer back in the refrigerator and poured a glass of warm water instead.

After receiving the glass of warm water, Adrian fell silent for a moment and then asked, "What about ice water?"

"We don't have any."

"Okay... how about something cold?"

Already annoyed by his questions, Eva simply replied, "If you want to drink it, drink it. It's up to you."

Adrian was taken aback by her stern response, and strangely enough, fell into silence. He then took the glass of warm water in his hands and drank it slowly.

He drank very slowly, as if each sip of water brought him immense pain, and his forehead was constantly sweating.

Eva had a feeling that he was about to burst into flames.

She pursed her lips and got up to fetch a damp towel from the bathroom. "Are you finished? Lie down here."

Perhaps feeling too uncomfortable, Adrian didn't say anything and lay down quickly. Eva placed the damp towel on him.

With his body so hot, she treated him as if he had a fever.

Afterwards, she went to get another damp towel and some alcohol, preparing to use it to lower his temperature.

"Should I wipe you or do you want to do it yourself?"

She stood in front of Adrian and lowered her voice.

However, Adrian, lying on the couch, didn't respond.

Could he be delirious from the heat?

Eva quickly reached out and gently pushed Adrian. He groaned but still didn't move.

It seemed like he was really in great discomfort.

Oh well, she would just think of it as being a good person until the end.

She would think of it as him fulfilling his promise to spend money on fixing the house for the children.

After coming to this realization, Eva swiftly stepped forward.

She helped him up, took off his coat, and put him back down when he was left with just a shirt.

After doing all of this, Eva was exhausted and panting for breath.

She didn't expect Adrian, who appeared thin, to be so heavy. Just supporting him to prevent him from falling took immense effort. Breathing heavily, Eva unbuttoned his shirt.

 

Chapter 357 Where did the clothes come from?

To her surprise, as soon as Eva's fingers touched the first button of his shirt, her wrist was suddenly grabbed.

The grip was strong and aggressive.

Eva looked up and met someone's dark and deep gaze. In this dimly lit living room, Adrian stared at her, his eyes resembling those of a wolf.

As if he would pounce at any moment.

Startled, Eva realized that he had somehow woken up.

It's good that he woke up, so he can apply the alcohol himself, but... he doesn't seem right.

Could he have lost consciousness?

Although she had never experienced it herself, she had heard that some things, when affected, could make anyone lose control...

Without much thought, Eva felt the grip on her wrist tighten, and Adrian's breath became heavier.

Her expression changed, and she tried to pull her hand back while saying, "The alcohol and towel are beside you. Since you're awake, you should clean up... Ah..."

Before she could finish her sentence, she exclaimed in shock as Adrian pulled her towards him. In an instant, she found herself pressed onto the sofa by Adrian.

The man's once clear breath became incredibly hot, enveloping her. Eva's hands were restrained above her head as the man leaned down.

While her heart raced, Eva remembered the two children sleeping in the room, so she called out his name in a low voice.

"Adrian, what are you doing?"

But he continued to disregard her and leaned down as if he hadn't heard her words.

Just as Eva hesitated whether to kick him to wake him up, the man leaned in close to her but remained still, silently staring at her. They were so close.

Eva could clearly see the overwhelming emotions in his eyes along with the struggle and restraint.

Because of his restraint, his brow furrowed tightly, and his breath was hot.

After a moment, his brow slightly relaxed, and then he lowered his head.

Eva's heart trembled. Could he have given up the struggle?

However, right at this moment, Adrian reached out and cupped her cheek, and with restraint and calmness, placed a deep kiss on her forehead.

Then, he tremblingly withdrew, his pale lips gazing at her as he said, "Don't worry, I won't hurt you."

With that, he quickly released her cheek, stood up, and practically fled from the room.

Eva lay on the sofa, her forehead still feeling the warmth of his lips - burning and soft.

Realizing what had happened, Eva got up from the sofa and followed after him. She heard a loud bang as Adrian entered her bathroom, followed by the shutting of the bathroom door. The door was closed as well.

Immediately after, the shower inside was turned on. There was no need to guess what he was doing in there.

Cool water to cool down was indeed the quickest way.

But in this weather... it's winter, and considering his condition...

If it were summer, she would have just pushed him into the bathroom and let him wake up with cold water.

But if he had been more cautious, how could he have fallen for it?

After falling for it, he came to her. She might as well let him wake up with cold water to prevent him from making the same foolish mistake again.

With these thoughts, Eva's heart grew colder.

She turned around, ready to leave, took a few steps, but couldn't help but stop. Then she turned around and tried to twist the bathroom door, but it didn't budge. That's when she realized that Adrian had locked the bathroom door.

Eva frowned. She was about to speak when she heard Adrian's low voice from inside.

"Don't come in."

Though he was clearly restraining himself, his voice was heavy with gasps, and... he was probably doing something indecent in there.

Eva bit her lip, wanting to rush in and drag him out.

She endured it for a moment, but couldn't hold back any longer. She said to him through the door, "Just use cold water, don't do anything strange in there."

In response, she heard his low gasps accompanying the sound of water.

"Adrian, did you hear what I said? Adrian!"

However, no matter how she called him, he ignored her, as if he had already made up his mind not to pay attention to her, or perhaps he was too busy and didn't have time to bother with her. Eva was furious, knowing that shouting again would be pointless. In the end, she had no choice but to give up.

She turned and went to the living room, took the cup he had been drinking and went to the kitchen to wash it, then came back to check on the two children.

She found that the two children were still sleeping soundly and undisturbed, which put Eva's mind at ease.

After waiting for about five or six minutes, she returned to the bathroom door and knocked.

The water sound inside still couldn't be heard. It seemed like Adrian had become addicted to staying in there, to the point where he couldn't even hear her knocking.

But standing at the door, she could still hear strange sounds coming from inside.

That jerk!

Eva cursed him in her mind for a few moments, but in the end, she gave up and went to the living room, wrapped in a blanket, and waited.

By the time she started to feel drowsy, Adrian still hadn't come out. She leaned against the couch and dozed off.

She didn't know how long had passed when Eva suddenly woke up. The living room was still quiet, but her heart was pounding. Adrian hadn't come out yet.

Could he have passed out in the bathroom?

Eva quickly threw off the blanket and rushed to the bathroom. This time, she didn't hear the sound of running water, it was quiet inside.

She reached out to twist the doorknob, but it was still locked. She could only gently tap the door and lower her voice as she called his name.

She called several times, but there was no response from inside.

Eva frowned, thinking that he might have fainted in there. Finally, there was a slight movement from inside, and then the lock on the bathroom door was opened. Eva quickly pushed the door open.

As soon as she entered, she saw Adrian sitting on the cold floor.

At this moment, he was completely drenched. The man who always took great care of his appearance and was meticulous with his outfits and hair now looked utterly disheveled. His wet hair hung down, sticking to his forehead and dripping water. Droplets slid across his firm nose and disappeared into his tightly pressed lips.

His pale lips were freezing cold.

With just a quick glance, Eva quickly crouched down and touched his forehead. His body temperature had dropped. Not only was he no longer feverish, but he was also chillingly cold. The medicine must have worn off.

Eva thought for a moment, reopened the showerhead, filled it with hot water, and handed it to Adrian.

"Stay awake, okay? Hold this and rinse yourself with hot water to warm up."

Adrian, who had previously tightly closed his eyes, trembled slightly at the sound of her voice. Though he didn't speak, he followed her instructions and grabbed the showerhead.

The hot water slightly revived his consciousness. Adrian gently lifted his gaze and saw Eva leaving. Not long after, she returned, holding a set of men's clothing in her hands. "Put the clothes on the shelf. Shower, then change and come out."

Adrian remained silent and looked at her. He parted his thin lips and asked, "Where did the clothes come from?"

 

 

Chapter 358 What are you lingering in there for?

"What?"

As water splashed around, Adrian's voice was low, making it difficult for Eva to hear what he said, so she crouched down, and asked again.

"What did you just say?"

Adrian stared at her with his dark eyes fixedly.

"Where did the clothes come from?"

There were no men in her house, so where did the men's clothing come from?

This time, Eva understood. She hesitated for a moment, not having time to answer, when she heard Adrian's voice with a hint of stubbornness. "Someone else's, I don't want it." Judging from his expression and tone, could it be that he thought the clothes belonged to someone else and he wasn't going to wear them?

Hearing this, Eva coldly sneered right in front of him. "Alright then, if you don't want to wear them, then just stay here. I'll call your assistant and have him come to take you away." He had come here in the middle of the night, hadn't had any peaceful rest, and now he was being stubborn in front of her.

She wasn't going to indulge him!

After her words fell, Eva turned around to leave, but as she took a step, she felt a pull on her clothes. She lowered her head and saw Adrian's hand grasping onto her clothes. Eva furrowed her brows. "What are you doing?"

With his eyes downcast and water droplets on the corners, Adrian softly spoke, his pale lips moving. "Don't chase me away, I'll wear them."

For some reason, looking at his current appearance caused Eva's breath to hitch. It was as if she had greatly wounded him because he looked pitiful, like an abandoned puppy. She reached out and pinched her own brow.

Headache.

"Alright!"

"Then will you let me go?"

"Why are you staying here with me? Can't you go back to your own place? You're fine now. Your body temperature has already dropped."

"Because I'm fine, you want me to leave?"

"Fine." Adrian's voice was weak and faint.

As Eva was about to walk away, Adrian grabbed onto her clothes once again, his grip tighter this time.

"What are you trying to do?" Eva asked.

"I might as well throw away the showerhead in my hand," he said.

Eva was shocked to see him like this, unable to believe how shameless he had become; how had she not noticed when they were younger?

Meanwhile, Adrian was really getting a taste for acting pitiful. He had experienced it in the hospital before and now again. He realized that the more miserable he appeared, the more attention she would give him. Otherwise, she wouldn't even bother with him.

Even though acting pitiful was despicable, what other option did he have now? Despicable or not, it was still better than her not even looking at him. Adrian had made up his mind, so he tugged harder on her clothes. "If I sit here all night, will I get sick? If I get sick, will you feel sorry for me a little?"

Eva could see through him and looked at him speechlessly. "Adrian, are you checking me now? Do you think that if you get sick, I won't kick you out?" "Hmm," he nodded and admitted. Eva sighed, "Get up and change your clothes first." Adrian pursed his lips, still very unhappy, but slowly stood up.

It would have been fine if he didn't stand up, but when he did, Eva noticed his clothes clinging to the curves of his body, inadvertently outlining a certain area. She quickly averted her gaze, her breath almost catching.

"You change, I'll leave first." Adrian saw her breathless escape and looked at himself, then chuckled softly. But when his gaze fixed on the clothes he needed to change into, he couldn't laugh anymore. There was only one question in his mind. Whose men's clothing set was this? It couldn't be that she had already guessed he would come and prepared it for him? Adrian reluctantly put on the clothes, and his face darkened completely.

The shirt and pants were both more than one size too big, hanging loosely on him. Fortunately, the clothes didn't have any smell, so he assumed no one had worn them before. But the thought of her preparing clean clothes for other men made Adrian's face turn black. Michael... was this clothing for him? Had their relationship reached this point? The flames of jealousy burned fiercely in Adrian's chest.

"What are you still dawdling in there for?" Eva's voice came from the door, snapping Adrian back to reality. He opened the door and walked out. After he emerged, Eva glanced at him and her eyes revealed understanding. The clothes were still too big on him. She nodded, "Although the clothes are a bit big, we'll have to make do in this situation."

After saying that, she handed him a jacket. "This is my coat. Just wrap it around yourself for now." Hearing that it was her coat, Adrian reached out and took it. Her coat was probably meant to be worn when it was cold or when she had multiple layers on. That's why it was intentionally oversized, and it happened to fit Adrian perfectly. The coat still carried her scent, lightly lingering in each breath.

He still minded the clothes on himself.

He walked behind her and asked in a low voice, "Who did you prepare this set of clothes for?"

Upon hearing this, Eva paused and turned to look at him.

"Do you really want to know?" she asked.

Adrian quietly watched her.

After staring at him for a while, Eva said a name.

"Michael."

Upon hearing this, Adrian's expression instantly broke down. "What did you say?"

"Oh, so you've been pestering me all this time just to hear me say that I prepared this set of clothes for him? Are you satisfied now?" Eva replied. With that, Eva pointed towards the water dispenser ahead.

"Go and pour yourself some hot water to drink. I won't help you anymore. You seem fine now anyway."

"The effects of the medicine haven't worn off yet," he said.

Eva glanced at him.

"Can I rest on the sofa?"

"Where else? Do you want to go into the room?"

Adrian looked at her, his thin lips pale.

"If you agree..."

"I don't agree. Sleep on the sofa, and don't make any noise. It's already late, and the kids have to go to school tomorrow."

She pointed to a location in a certain room. Adrian pursed his lips slightly and lowered his eyes. "I understand."

After Eva left, Adrian sat down on the sofa. The living room was quiet. His body was no longer cold after washing it with hot water, but his heart was cold.

He lowered his head, staring fixedly at the oversized men's clothing he was wearing. The thought that she had prepared it for Michael made him want to take it off immediately. However, for now, this was the only set of clothes he had to wear. But when he thought about it, so what if it was prepared for Michael? The one wearing it now wasn't Michael, it was him.

The one staying by her side was also him.

After thinking like this, Adrian felt a bit more comfortable in his heart, and even a little proud. He never expected that he would benefit from this disaster.

But as for Vivian, thinking of what she had done tonight, a sharpness flashed in Adrian's eyes.

 

 

Chapter 359 Can I Sleep in Your Room?

Everything quieted down after returning to her own room.

Earlier, she had dozed off while waiting for him. But now that he was fine, she couldn't calm down at all.

Eva lay in bed, although she should be sleeping at this hour, she couldn't help but reflect on today's events.

He fell into Vivian's trap, then ran over to her, indicating that he didn't want anything to happen between him and Vivian.

In the past, she wouldn't have believed this, especially since he had previously mentioned divorce with her for the sake of her, even though their marriage was a sham. But back then, his favoritism towards her was evident. But why didn't anything happen between him and Vivian?

As for why Eva was thinking like this, it was natural because if something really happened between him and Vivian, Vivian wouldn't have resorted to this.

She had initially wanted to clarify the relationship between them, but the more she thought about it, the more Eva realized that she couldn't come to a conclusion.

I can't understand Adrian anymore. Logically speaking, he used to like Vivian, who saved his life. But they didn't have a relationship, which is strange.

Eva turned over and felt increasingly bewildered. Could it be that Adrian mistook his gratitude for Vivian as affection? How can he not even differentiate between liking someone and having feelings for them?

Unable to figure it out, Eva finally sat up quietly and stared at the pitch-black window. Maybe... she could call Emily at this time.

With this thought, Eva took out her phone and dialed Emily's number. Due to the time difference, it was daytime over there.

When Emily answered the call, she sounded surprised, "This is the first time you've called me during the day. What's up? It should be late at night for you, and you haven't rested?" "I..." Eva hesitated, ready to speak.

As close friends, how could Emily not sense that something was wrong? She immediately asked sensitively, "Has something happened?"

"Um..." Eva nodded and proceeded to tell Emily everything that had happened tonight and recently.

After listening, Emily exclaimed, "What am I supposed to say to that? It's been five years, and he still hasn't given up on you. Don't tell me he liked you before?"

Eva's heart skipped a beat at that statement, and she instinctively denied, "That's impossible."

As her best friend, how could Emily not notice something off in Eva's words? She laughed, "Why are you so quick to deny? I'm not saying you like him, just that he liked you."

Eva responded, "My denial is normal, isn't it? If he liked me, why did he divorce me in the first place? And why did he make me get an abortion?"

"Didn't he know you were pregnant? Wasn't the abortion a misunderstanding?"

Eva bit her lip.

"Even if it was a misunderstanding, if he hadn't given his phone to Vivian, this wouldn't have happened."

Emily fell silent, sighing.

"What do you think now?"

"I haven't really thought about it."

"Then why did you call me in the middle of the night?" Seeing Eva's silence, Emily straightforwardly said, "You still like him, don't you?"

This question furrowed Eva's brow. She was about to respond when she heard Emily continue, "Don't rush to refute me. If you don't like him, then you shouldn't be conflicted or let him back into your life." Eva replied, "I..."

"Are you trying to argue with me? Did you let him in because he's the children's father?"

Eva was speechless for a moment. She didn't expect Emily to guess what she was about to say.

She pursed her lips and didn't say anything.

"No response means you're agreeing, right? But just because he's the father of the children, you shouldn't help him, right? Weren't you always afraid he would take the kids away from you? If he really fell into Vivian's trap, he and Vivian will become a couple.

Once Vivian has a child, they won't be interested in her Ruby and Dylan anymore. But... why did she help him back then? Clearly, she had already shut him out, so why did she regret it and let him in?

Thinking about this, Eva massaged her forehead. The first time she opened the door, there was no problem, but the second time... that was her own issue. If Adrian misunderstands her actions because of this, then she can only blame herself. "Do you have nothing to say?" Emily chuckled. "So, you still like him, otherwise why don't you show the same leniency towards Michael?"

"I just wanted to vent to you, not have you analyze whether I like him or not."

"I'm just analyzing it for you so you won't regret it in the future."

"What would I regret? I won't regret it."

"Is that so? If you won't regret it, then kick him out now while you still have the chance, and cut off any thoughts you have for him."

"Do you think his thoughts can be cut off just by me doing something like this?"

"Perhaps." Emily sighed. "But after all these years, he's still dedicated to you. If only we knew earlier, there wouldn't have been a need for that, and I never expected your pregnancy to be revealed through a text message."

Originally, Eva wanted Emily to help her relieve her worries, but unexpectedly, their conversation led to the topic of her liking Adrian, making Eva even more troubled.

"I'll hang up now. I need some rest."

Emily chuckled. "You're bothered because I hit the nail on the head."

"Alright, we'll talk another day." Eva hung up without further ado, then lay down in bed.

Still like him?

She must be foolish to continue liking him. Wasn't she hurt enough five years ago?

Lost in thought, the door suddenly knocked. In this silent night, Eva was startled and quickly sat up from the bed.

"Who is it?"

Adrian's low voice came from outside the door, "It's me."

After enduring for a few seconds, Eva got up and went to open the door.

After the door opened, Adrian saw Eva standing before him with a gloomy expression.

"What's the matter?"

Adrian pursed his lips and said, "It's cold outside, do you have an extra blanket? Or... can I come in and sleep in your room?"

 

 

Chapter 360 Greed

Eva thought she misheard.

She could let the first statement slide, but what was the intention behind the second statement?

"Sleep in my room? Do you even know what you're saying?"

Eva looked at him speechlessly. "Do you think that by signing that agreement, our relationship goes back to how it was before?"

"No," Adrian lowered his gaze, his voice muffled. "I just stood under the cold water for too long at night, and the temperature outside was low."

"Don't you know how to cover yourself with a blanket?" After saying that, Eva turned around and opened the cabinet, intending to get another blanket for herself. However, the cabinet was empty when she opened it.

To prevent accidents, she had only prepared an extra blanket, which she had already given to Adrian.

Eva turned around with frustration and handed him her own blanket. "Here, should two blankets be enough for you? It's almost three o'clock, and if you disturb my rest again, I'll kick you out."

Adrian looked at her taking the blanket from her bed, so he didn't take it.

"No need, it's fine like this."

After saying that, he turned around and left.

Eva couldn't help but feel somewhat confused. After closing the door, she lay back down, covered herself with the blanket, closed her eyes, and decided to sleep seriously.

After lying there for another ten minutes, all she could think of was the image of Adrian saying he was cold.

Upon careful consideration, his claim of feeling cold did have some basis. He had been standing under cold water for a long time, and coupled with his recent bad health, such a cold shock in the winter might trigger his stomach problem. Furthermore, when he came to talk to her earlier, he seemed so weak, as if he couldn't keep standing.

A few seconds later, Eva sat up.

This would be the one and only time she cared for him.

After sending him off tomorrow, if he ever acted pitiful in front of her again, she would pretend not to see it at all.

Eva opened the door and went to the living room.

The living room was quiet, and the lights were off. Eva found the switch and turned it on, instantly brightening the room.

Eva saw Adrian lying on the sofa, curled up almost into a ball.

His complexion was even worse than when he had called her earlier, and he had a cold sweat on his forehead. When Eva reached out to touch him, she was startled by his temperature.

But this time, Eva could confirm that he had a real fever, a sickness-induced fever, rather than what it was before...

She pushed him a little with her hand, but he didn't react, seeming to be in a hazy state due to the fever.

She opened the cabinet, took out the fever patches and pills she had usually prepared for the children, and applied them on him. She also gave him a fever-reducing pill and some water. After everything was done, Eva felt exhausted and started breathing heavily.

She looked at Adrian, whose face was still pale, and her heart was speechless.

Because he was not just running a normal fever now, she didn't dare to leave, fearing that he might get delirious from the fever. So she stayed by his side. Periodically, she would wipe him with alcohol to cool him down. As she wiped him for the second time, Adrian suddenly opened his eyes and looked at her. "Eve."

This call caused Eva to pause, knitting her brows.

"Don't call me that."

In her memories, this name was distant.

"Eve."

But he seemed stubborn, wanting to call her by that name. "Eve, can you forgive me?"

This made Eva look at him strangely.

Was he delirious from the fever?

Adrian seemed genuinely delirious, staring at her intently. "Please, Eve, can you forgive me?"

"If you're not willing to forgive me, then at least give me a chance to make amends," he held her delicate wrist, "I'll treat you well, give you whatever you want, even my life, okay?" But Eva ignored his words and reached out to touch his forehead, the temperature slowly coming down.

"Not okay," Eva wiped him with alcohol, rejecting him expressionlessly.

As she wiped his back, Eva thought for a moment and said to him, "Lift your hand, turn over, I'll wipe your back."

If he hadn't woken up, she would have been able to do it herself.

But since he was awake, she let him do it himself, saving some effort.

After saying that, seeing that he didn't move for a long time, Eva urged him, "Hurry up."

Adrian, lying still, finally raised his hand. Eva waited for him to turn over, but his hand suddenly wrapped around her neck and forcefully pulled her into his embrace.

"Ah," Eva exclaimed, dropping the towel to the ground, falling into his arms.

Before she could react, her chin was held, and immediately a rush of cool breath enveloped her.

In an instant, their foreheads touched intimately.

"Why not?"

His breath was hot, blowing onto her face.

Their lips were almost touching.

The intertwining of their breaths created an ambiguous atmosphere.

Eva's eyelashes trembled, feeling somewhat overwhelmed by this atmosphere. Just as she was about to step back, the person in front of her followed her breath and leaned in.

When his breath reached her, Eva subconsciously tried to dodge but was too slow, and his soft lips covered hers.

Eva's heartbeat skipped a beat.

Before she could react, Adrian, who tasted the sweetness, unwillingly held the back of her head and fiercely captured her slightly parted lips.

Eva reached out to push him away, but as soon as her hand touched his chest, Adrian, like being stimulated, moved his large hand from her head to her neck, his thumb pressing on the nape of her neck, forcing her to tilt her head slightly, exposing her slender and fair neck completely in the air.

Eva's breath was clean; compared to the youthful and sweet breath of five years ago, it now carried a hint of charm.

In this kind of charm, Adrian's gaze gradually became chaotic.

He had restrained himself so much during the onset of the drug's effects, but now he kissed her with madness.

Indulging in a greedy manner to the extreme.

Under such an assault, Eva's heart raced like thunder, deafening.

Coupled with the vast difference in strength between men and women, Eva couldn't push him away at all. She gradually lost strength under his assault and her body almost collapsed, leaning half in his arms. Their breaths mingled.

Finally, Eva couldn't bear it anymore and pushed his shoulder with her hand, making a muffled sound.

It was only then that someone belatedly realized something, moved back a bit, pressed his forehead against hers, and exhaled heavily, his voice hoarse. "What's wrong?"

He had the audacity to ask her that?

Eva glared at him, about to speak, but the man who had been dominant and overbearing just now suddenly stopped.