Ch. 421..430

Chapter 421 Let's See If She Agrees

When she heard the faint noises, Eva's eyelashes fluttered, the glaring light almost too much to allow her eyes to open.

It took a while for her to adjust to the brightness before she could finally open her eyes.

As soon as she did, she saw Dylan and Ruby standing not far away.

Seeing them, Eva first thought she was mistaken, but she was still startled, abruptly sitting up.

Once she sat up, the two little ones, noticing she was awake, immediately came over to greet her.

"Mommy! You're awake!" Ruby's voice was loud, loud enough to wake Adrian, who had still been asleep.

When Adrian also opened his eyes, Ruby joyfully called out to him.

"Uncle NightA!" She ran up with excitement, grasping the hem of his shirt, "You slept with Mommy, does that mean you'll be my daddy from now on?"

Although she was young, the girl was smart, she had never seen her mother and Michael sleep together. Not just sleeping together, there hadn't even been any intimate gestures between them. Children might be young, but sometimes they see things the clearest.

Adrian hadn't expected Ruby to suddenly ask him such a question, and he sat there stunned for a moment before responding.

He glanced at Eva sitting to his side, then gently placed his hand on Ruby's little head, "Whether I can be part of this family depends on your mom."

"Mommy?" The little girl looked towards Eva.

"Mm-hmm." Adrian nodded, "If your mommy agrees to let me be your daddy, then I will be. If she doesn't, then I just have to work harder to gain her acceptance."

Hearing this, Ruby immediately climbed onto the couch and into Eva's embrace, "Then Mommy, are you okay with Uncle NightA?"

Before Eva could speak, Ruby continued on her own, "Mommy must have accepted him, right? Otherwise, she wouldn't let Uncle NightA sleep over."

It seemed there was already a big misunderstanding, and Eva, awkwardly cradling her forehead, although indeed she had slowly started to accept Adrian in her heart, felt hesitant to admit it directly to a child. After all, in the past, she'd been truly hurt by him.

Some of that, she realized, was a misunderstanding of her own making.

But if he had understood his feelings earlier on, how could so many misunderstandings have arisen between them?

Her silence swiftly infused the atmosphere with an air of awkwardness. Ruby stared at her expectantly, waiting for her response, while Adrian initially wore a confident smile, seemingly certain of her affirmation. Unexpectedly, she fell into a deep silence.

Adrian was well aware of her reticence. The pleasure in his eyes slowly faded, but he didn't show anger, calmly stating instead, "It's alright, this isn't urgent. We can talk about it later."

So, without waiting for Eva to speak up, Adrian interrupted the two of them.

He then stroked Ruby's head and said gently, "Ruby, let's give your mommy a little more time, and me another chance to show you, okay?"

Eva felt uneasy as she watched him manage to maintain his composure and speak those words. How he could adjust his emotions in such a situation and express himself that way, she couldn't fathom. Ruby didn't speak again, and with Dylan coming forward to take her hand, he led her aside.

After a long silence, Eva finally said, "I'm going to freshen up then. Your injury..."

"It's much better. I applied medicine and took some too, remember?"

Hearing this, Eva glanced at him and noticed that his complexion was much healthier than the night before.

Assured, she got up to freshen up.

As she left, the two little ones quickly followed her steps. When they were out of Adrian's sight, Ruby couldn't help but ask, "Mommy, why didn't you agree?"

Eva knew she would ask and let out a soft sigh, "The time isn't right yet."

Not yet?

"So, when will it be..."

"Ruby..." Dylan interrupted her gently, advising, "Stop asking. When mommy agrees, she'll tell us."

Hearing this from Dylan, Ruby obediently nodded her head, "Okay then."

The three of them entered the bathroom together where Eva saw that children's toothbrushes, both in blue and pink, complete with matching cups for kids, were all prepared. With just one glance, Eva was heartened.

Children's items are always cuter than imagined. She wondered whether everything was already arranged in advance or had been brought in last night.

Eva squeezed out toothpaste for them both, "Brush quickly, then we'll have breakfast."

"Thank you, Mommy."

When Adrian arrived, what he saw was the three of them neatly lined up in a heartwarming scene.

This sight made him instinctively pause, lingering as he admired them from a distance.

Finally, Adrian couldn't resist taking out his phone, opening the camera, and capturing the moment. Against the light, the scene was picturesque, perfect as a wallpaper with just a casual snap. Adrian stood still, effortlessly changing the wallpaper right before his eyes.

He casually set it as the screensaver on his phone as well.

Afterwards, he remained in place, locking and unlocking his phone, admiring the image over and over.

He lingered there, lost in thought, until Eva and the two kids had finished brushing their teeth and stood up.

When she turned around, she saw him still standing there, gazing at his phone with an expression that seemed to ripple with a touch of infatuation.

Eva was puzzled by this image for a moment before curiosity about what was on his phone piqued her interest.

What could he be looking at with such fondness?

Thinking this, Eva walked over and asked, "What are you looking at?"

But Adrian quickly pocketed his phone as soon as he saw her approaching.

So, Eva didn't manage to catch a glimpse of its content before he had already hidden it away.

"What's so secretive that you won't let me see it?" she queried.

With a slight lift of his lips and a look of amusement, Adrian replied, "Why? Are you interested in what I'm looking at?"

Teased in such way, Eva withdrew her gaze and retorted, "Not really."

With her feigned disinterest, she decided not to probe any further and went back to remind the children to wash and wipe their faces.

"Once you're done, we'll go for breakfast."

When Adrian joined them later, Eva suddenly remembered to ask, "When are we going back home?"

After all, the two little ones had grown up and needed to go to school, they couldn't afford to waste precious time.

 

Chapter 422 Is She Showing Concern for Others?

"I've already had someone start making arrangements." Adrian replied.

The lack of a definite answer suggested difficulties may have been encountered.

Indeed, although he had fought Michael and rescued her and the children, her documents were still with Michael.

Without her documents, returning to their country would require extra effort.

It seemed she wouldn't be able to think about going back just yet, but spending all day in the villa was particularly dull.

Not long after having breakfast downstairs, the doctor came to change Adrian's dressing.

His wounds were severe and naturally required close attention. After changing the dressing and admonishing some precautions, he checked on Ruby's foot injury. Once he finished, Jacob saw the doctor out, the kids were escorted back to their rooms by Jacob, while Eva stayed to watch Adrian take his medicine.

Those bitter pills went down like candies, one by one into Adrian's mouth, furrowing his brow with bitterness, yet he had to swallow them due to Eva's watchful gaze. It was a sensation both bitter and sweet.

After watching him take his medicine, Eva felt as if she had completed one-third of her duties for the day.

She had other worrisome thoughts on her mind, but facing Adrian made her hesitate to speak.

Noticing her hesitation, Adrian asked, "Is there something you want to talk about?"

Hearing this, Eva looked at him for a long time before ultimately swallowing back her words.

She shook her head gently, "No."

Adrian didn't press further; he simply watched her quietly.

He could tell she had something to say, but she wasn't willing to speak now, he couldn't force her.

He would just have to wait until she was ready to talk.

Eva spent the whole day in that place and went downstairs to wander around after lunch.

She ran into Jacob, who was just returning from outside. Seeing him reminded her of the questions she had wanted to ask Adrian but hadn't. She quickened her pace to meet him.

Jacob had just come back and, seeing her hurried approach, knew she must have something to ask him and stopped.

"Ms. Hansen, is there something you need from me?"

"Yes, I have a question for you." After saying this, Eva glanced around to make sure no one else could overhear them before asking, "Do you know how Adrian got injured last night? I mean, the process... who injured him? And what has become of the person who did it?"

Eva thought she had asked quite tactfully, but Jacob caught on immediately.

"Ms. Hansen, are you asking about what happened to Michael?"

Eva was momentarily at a loss for words, then asked, "So, it was really Michael who hurt him?"

She could hardly believe that Michael would strike Adrian so harshly. Even though they had turned against each other now, they had once been friends.

Could a friend inflict such a grave injury?

Eva had always felt that Adrian's wounds were most likely caused by people around Michael.

But she hadn't expected it to be Michael himself.

"Ms. Hansen, if it wasn't Michael who hurt him, then who else could it be? Not just anyone would have the chance to get close to Mr. Blackwood."

Eva bit her lower lip and said no more.

She knew that by probing further, she might annoy Jacob, given that she was now on Adrian's side.

She truly hadn't intended to harm Michael.

After all, Michael was a very special friend during a critical time in Eva's life.

Although she didn't ask further, how could Jacob fail to notice Eva's hesitation? He sighed and said, "Ms. Hansen, you're not really worried about that Michael, are you? There's no need to worry about him. No matter how well he treated you before, the things he has done recently are inexcusable. He brought you abroad without your consent, that's kidnapping! If it weren't for Miss Jones telling us that you insisted not to call the police, just for what he's done, he would be behind bars."

Eva frowned deeply upon hearing this.

"He just hasn't come to his senses yet. Once he does, it could be a rebirth for his life."

For Eva, Michael had been there for her in her most difficult times, but his own life was also shrouded in darkness, he likely had serious psychological issues.

This period must be difficult for him as well. How could Eva possibly kick him when he was down?

Once he came to his senses and got out of his current thought process, he could very well start a new life.

But if he were put behind bars, it would ruin the rest of his life.

"Come to his senses?" Jacob seemed to find her statement ludicrous. "Ms. Hansen, if he were capable of that, he wouldn't have done what he did. In my opinion, he's mentally disturbed, and unless he's willing to seek treatment, he'll never get better."

Seek treatment?

Eva actually did think that Michael genuinely needed medical attention, specifically from a psychologist, if he was willing.

That thought brightened Eva's eyes.

"Jacob, do you think it's possible..."

"It's not possible." Before she could fully express her suggestion, Jacob swiftly countered her, "Don't entertain that idea, Ms. Hansen. He's probably injured and in bed right now. Even if he needs a doctor, it will be their people who'll find one for him, not a psychologist." Eva's gaze dimmed slightly. "Is that so?"

She stopped talking and spared Jacob any further difficulty. "I won't bother you anymore, I'll be going now."

Jacob stood still, watching her dejected departure, and felt incredibly guilty.

Ms. Hansen, out of kindness, simply wanted to help a once dear friend, and yet he had just put her and her children through so much recently. It was simply unforgivable.

Well, he was looking at it from his own perspective, unable to fully empathize with her.

But he really shouldn't have spoken so absolutely.

In the end, Jacob reconsidered his stance. "Ms. Hansen, how about this... I'll keep an eye on the matter for you, and if there's any news, I'll inform you."

Upon hearing his words, Eva's eyes lit up.

"Really? Wouldn't that be too much trouble for you?"

Jacob smiled, "Not at all, Ms. Hansen. I'll do what I can."

After about fifteen minutes, the matter reached Adrian's ears.

Upon hearing the news, Adrian's brows furrowed deeply.

"Is she concerned about that man?"

Jacob nodded solemnly, "Yes, Mr. Blackwood. Miss Hansen seems too lenient towards Michael. He kidnapped her, and now she's looking to treat his illness." His words left Adrian feeling somewhat uneasy.

 

 

Chapter 423 Psychological Issues

She was indeed worried about his own injuries.

Adrian found this thought sweet, feeling the injuries he sustained were trivial in comparison and worth it.

But equally, she cared about someone else.

And that person was the one who brought her abroad without her consent.

If not for Adrian's sentimentality, would Michael even be where he is today?

"Mr. Blackwood, shall we... take decisive action? Otherwise, Miss Hansen might always think back and show concern and fondness for him."

"Decisive action?" Adrian narrowed his eyes, sounding slightly irritated, "He's only injured and she's already so concerned about him. If we take it too far, what kind of person would I be in her heart? Besides, I have a family, children, and I follow the law."

Hearing this, Jacob realized Adrian had misunderstood him and said with a touch of helplessness, "Mr. Blackwood, you've got me wrong. What I meant by 'decisive action' was to cut off Miss Hansen's contact with Michael forever, not letting her hear any news about him again, that's what I was suggesting, not... the other thing..."

As he mentioned "the other thing," Jacob gestured as if firing a gun.

Adrian looked away, his tone slightly impatient, "Fine, first tell me why she wants to treat his illness? What's wrong with that guy?"

"Mr. Blackwood, are you asking about Michael's illness?"

Adrian retorted, "What else?"

"Well, I'm not entirely sure, but from what Miss Hansen said, it seems Michael might have psychological issues."

"Psychological issues..." Adrian squinted his slender eyes, wondering why she said it was a psychological problem. Back in their school days, he seemed quite normal, not like someone with psychological issues.

If something did change, psychologically speaking, it must have been after he went abroad.

Once he went abroad, they lost contact, and they were entirely unaware of what happened to him during that time.

Now Eva is saying he has psychological issues. Could it be something that developed while he was away?

So, what exactly happened?

Seeing that he was an old friend and had indeed been looking after Eva for the past five years, Adrian found it impossible to feel anything for him other than jealousy, there was no disgust to be had. "You should ask someone to look into it, find out what's really going on."

He was keen to understand just what the nature of his psychological disorder was, so severe that it brought him to the point of wanting to kidnap Eva.

Jacob had thought that after talking to Adrian, he would come up with some other solution. Unexpectedly, Adrian tasked him with the investigation. What could he possibly find out?

And even if he did discover something, was he supposed to help his own rival in love?

The very thought was absurd.

"Mr. Blackwood..." Jacob hesitated, "Are you serious, or is this a joke?"

Was there any point in asking about the truthfulness of the task?

"What do you mean?" Adrian asked, frowning.

"Mr. Blackwood, I mean, even if something has happened to Michael, it's none of our business, right? More importantly, he almost hurt Ms. Hansen. And you, you've been seriously injured this time. If it weren't for him, none of these events would have occurred."

"Mhm." Adrian nodded, "I know. So, can you do what I've asked?"

Jacob was speechless for a moment as he didn't know what to say. His words had been clear, and if Adrian could understand what he was saying, there would be no need to investigate anything concerning Michael. Even if Michael had been injured in his youth, so what?

What did it have to do with him?

Who hasn't been hurt in their youth?

But since it was Mr. Blackwood's decision, Jacob couldn't say much more, "I understand, Mr. Blackwood. You can rest assured. Since you want to get to the bottom of this matter, I'll make sure to find out for you." Soon after, Jacob left, leaving Adrian alone in the room.

His lips were pressed into a thin line, almost completely straight.

In his mind, he replayed what Jacob had told him, she seemed to be quite concerned about Michael?

Unable to contain himself, Adrian rose to seek her out.

After returning from speaking with Jacob, Eva had been preoccupied with thoughts of Michael.

Meanwhile, the two little ones were watching cartoons in the house, each holding a mobile phone in their hands.

Eva also had a phone, a replacement prepared at Adrian's behest. As for her previous one, she had forgotten to take it with her on the night she fled due to the urgency of the situation.

So now, she could only use the new phone Adrian had given her, equipped with a new SIM card.

Regarding her previous card, she'd only be able to replace it upon her return home.

While she was alone, Emily happened to come looking for her.

"Eva, you've nearly sorted everything out here, so the miser... oh no, I mean Mr. Powell, and I need to get ready to leave."

They had just met last night, and now she was leaving today?

After hearing the news, Eva looked at her with a touch of unwillingness to part. "Won't you stay a couple more days?"

Emily stuck out her tongue and apologized, "I'm sorry, as much as I'd like to stay and keep you company, Mr. Powell has been out with me for too long. If he doesn't return soon, the company will be a complete mess. I had hoped he would go back on his own and I could stay with you, but he's insisting I return with him."

Eva somewhat understood and curved her lips into a smile. "Is it him who's not letting you stay, or do you want to go back with him?"

Hearing this, Emily's eyes widened in disbelief. "Have you lost your mind, Eva? Why would I want to go back with him? It's only because he helped me this time, and I can't be heartless and ungrateful, right? After all, finding a replacement for my position isn't something he could do quickly if I were to suddenly resign."

Eva didn't need anything more to understand the situation, she simply smiled and refrained from persuading her further, only saying, "Alright, then I wish you a safe journey. Thank you for coming over to help me. Once I've resolved my matters here, we'll get together again."

At that, Emily embraced her with some reluctance. "Eva, I don't want to leave you."

Hearing the quiver in her voice made Eva's eyes heat up, her vision blurring slightly as she tightened her embrace and buried her face in Emily's neck. "I don't want you to leave either."

"I'll come find you after I've handed over my work."

Realizing something, Eva hurriedly said, "You're not thinking of quitting, are you?"

When they parted, tears glistened in the corner of Emily's eyes. She nodded earnestly at Eva, "Yeah, I don't want to do it anymore."

 

Chapter 424 An Awkward Goodbye

Eva was taken aback.

"You're resigning? Why? It's not because of my situation, is it?"

"Of course not," Emily Jones said, shaking her head, dabbing away the tears at the corner of her eye, and looking down. "Your situation just hit at the right time. I've been wanting to quit for a while now."

Eva hadn't heard a word about Emily wanting to leave before, and now, the guilt started to creep in. Was it because of her that Emily was resigning?

"I'm serious, Eva. We've been best friends for years. Don't you trust me? Haven't I always complained about how he was skinning me alive? He took up so much of my time, I couldn't even get out there and date. At this rate, marriage would be off the table, and honestly, I've been exhausted. This is the perfect time for me to resign."

Emily babbled on, hoping to relieve Eva of her guilt.

If Eva expressed any more regret now, Emily would find herself stuck in a loop of reassurances. So, Eva nodded.

"Alright. If you've thought it through, then I won't try to change your mind."

As adults, they should know what they're doing, what they want, and as long as they can live with the consequences, whether good or bad, that's all that matters.

"Thanks, honey," Emily could not resist another hug. "I knew you'd support me no matter what. Just watch, after I quit this job, I'll go back home and make my own way. I might start my own gig, even if it's just a tiny stall. At least I'll be my own boss."

"Okay, do whatever makes you happy."

They chatted cozily for a bit longer until Emily finally let go reluctantly. "Well, I'd better head off. We'll catch up again soon."

"Yeah."

Eva thought for a moment and stepped forward. "Maybe I should walk you guys out?"

Emily wanted to have Eva with her, but the thought that it might become dangerous for Eva to leave the place made her dismiss the idea.

"Better not. It's not safe for you to leave Adrian Blackwood's protection. What if you get grabbed by Michael Cooper's goons again while seeing us out?"

At that mention, Emily sighed. "We worked so hard to bring you back."

That's right. Adrian Blackwood had been severely injured during Eva's rescue.

"Then... I'll walk you to the door."

Emily nodded. "That works."

"When are you leaving?"

Emily Jones shifted uncomfortably. "We need to head to the airport now."

Eva was silent.

She came to say goodbye before leaving for the airport?

"I bought the tickets last night. It was late when I left and I didn't want to disturb you by coming back, so I thought I'd tell you today. But then I overslept, relieved that you'd returned safely," Emily explained. Eva couldn't help but laugh through her tears. "Oh you..."

"We've only got about twenty minutes to say goodbye, and now just a few minutes left. How about one more hug?"

Eva had no objections.

They used to be inseparable, and now they were just clinging to a few more precious moments of embrace.

When Adrian Blackwood entered the scene, he found them tightly hugging each other.

Had he not grown up with them, knowing their deep bond, he might have thought Emily Jones was encroaching on his territory, the hug was that intense.

However, seeing the girls looking so melancholic, Adrian decided to stand by the door quietly without interrupting.

One minute...

Two minutes...

Five minutes passed.

Adrian raised an eyebrow, visibly impatient. Was she really trying to compete with him for affection?

"Ahem."

A sudden cough snapped them back to reality. Eva looked up and sure enough, it was Adrian clearing his throat.

He stood there, locking eyes with them as if he'd been there for a while.

Emily quickly let go. "Mr. Blackwood."

He just nodded and stepped inside. "What were you two talking about?"

Despite being a woman, Emily sensed a tinge of jealousy from Adrian. She was shocked but shrugged it off. "Nothing much, just saying goodbye because I'm leaving." Adrian seemed surprised. "Leaving?"

It must have hit him - just last night they had found each other, and now she was departing.

Emily nodded. "Yeah, there's lots to take care of at Mr. Pei's company. We have to go, especially now that Eva is safe."

Adrian Blackwood responded with a nod, refraining from further comment. He simply asked, "When's the flight?"

"I'll head out after we say our goodbyes. Gotta factor in the drive to the airport too."

As their conversation came to an end, another figure appeared at the door - Pei Zhaoheng.

The two men exchanged brief glances, and Pei took the initiative to speak up, "Mr. Blackwood, I can't thank you enough for your hospitality these past few days, but there's a ton of work waiting for me back at the company that I need to handle. So, we'll have to cut our visit short."

"Understood," Adrian replied curtly.

Following a firm handshake with Adrian, Pei turned towards Eva and extended his hand to her as well.

"It's been a while, Ms. Hansen."

As polished and dashing as she remembered, Eva greeted him with a smile, "Hello, Mr. Pei, and thank you for bringing Emily along."

She reached out to return the handshake, but before their hands could meet, Adrian Blackwood intercepted, taking her hand in his.

"Your hand is ice-cold," he said with concern. "Why not wear something warmer?"

Silence fell briefly upon Eva and Emily Jones.

Emily caught sight of Eva's hand, now enveloped in Adrian's, and then glanced at Pei's outstretched hand still hanging in the air. She quickly took hold of it.

"Ha, Mr. Pei, your hands are pretty cold too," she remarked with a forced laugh, echoing Adrian's earlier comment, her low emotional intelligence shining through.

Pei's slender eyes narrowed slightly as he looked at Emily, and one could say his glance spoke volumes of unvoiced sentiments.

Feeling deeply awkward under his gaze, Emily found herself at a loss for words.

Eva, too, winced inwardly at the awkward situation, a little surprised by Adrian's show of jealousy over a simple handshake. She attempted to withdraw her hand, but Adrian's grip was unyielding, as if he feared she would turn to shake Pei's hand the moment he let go.

With a helpless glance at Adrian, she whispered, "Let go."

 

 

Chapter 425 Are You Crazy?

Adrian pursed his lips, a displeased expression appearing on his handsome face, seemingly not in agreement with her.

Eva had no choice but to strenuously pull her hand back.

Adrian's gaze suddenly looked slightly hurt.

While Eva was rescuing her hand, Nathan spoke up, "Mr. Blackwood, Ms. Hansen, we need to catch our flight, so we'll be leaving now."

With those words, Nathan naturally took Emily's hand that was holding his and led her away.

Emily hadn't anticipated that he would just take her away, and once she realized it, she called out to Eva, "Eva, we'll meet back home. I'll come to find you once I've handled my affairs." Eva waved to her.

"Okay, see you back home." Emily was whisked away by Nathan.

Only Adrian and Eva were left on the scene.

After a few seconds of silence, Eva couldn't help but admonish him, "Everyone's left, aren't you going to let go?"

Hearing this, Adrian lowered his gaze to their clasped hands, a pleasant curve appearing at the corners of his lips, "Why should I let go? Does it have to be in front of people for us to hold hands?" Eva looked at their joined hands and after a moment said, "It was merely a polite handshake, is it really necessary for you to make a big deal out of it?"

Adrian fixed his gaze on her, "I don't like other men touching you."

Eva emphasized, "It wasn't a touch, it was a courteous handshake, that doesn't count as touching."

Unexpectedly, Adrian retorted, "It doesn't matter, it still counts as touching even if it's just a handshake."

She was just tired of it all and didn't want to talk anymore.

It was then that Adrian, still staring at her, stated, "Jacob told me you were asking about Michael."

At those words, Eva paused, having asked Jacob in hopes of avoiding Adrian. She'd never thought Jacob would turn around and tell Adrian immediately. Adrian turned to look for her again.

It was only a brief moment.

"I shouldn't have asked at all. It's surprising how quickly everything was laid out before me. And what if I did ask? How would that matter?"

Was she trying to blame herself for this?

Adrian pursed his lips.

After a moment, he finally spoke in a grave tone, "Do I really come off that poorly in your mind?"

"What?" Eva didn't quite understand why he was asking this question.

"Or do you feel I'm not worthy of your trust, which is why you'd rather go to someone else with these questions?"

Eva had anticipated that he would confront her with accusations. Unexpectedly, he was addressing the matter of her trust, or the lack of it, in him.

At that thought, Eva instinctively began to explain, "It's not what you think, I just..."

"Or is it that you think I would do something to him?"

Eva fell silent, simply gazing at him.

With no reply from her, a sense of urgency mixed with annoyance arose in Adrian, "Say something."

"What do you want me to say?"

Adrian furrowed his brow.

"I didn't tell you because I was afraid of an outburst like this. So, I inquired in private with Jacob, but since he couldn't help me, I planned to drop the matter and never mention it to you."

Yet even with her explanation, Adrian's mood did not significantly lighten. "Am I less important to you than he is? If it wasn't him who kidnapped you, but me, would you then choose to be by his side?" Eva was utterly shocked by the question.

She had never contemplated the possibility of Adrian kidnapping her. While he often hassled her, sometimes to the point of annoyance, she had never considered that he would stoop to abduction. The same with Michael, the sudden kidnapping was beyond her expectations.

But now, Adrian's words sparked a sudden realization in Eva, yet she quickly regained her composure.

No, she couldn't let herself be swept up in this.

"That scenario never happened; your comparison is fundamentally flawed."

Her answer caused Adrian's gaze to dull somewhat. "Is the flaw in my comparison, or is it that you can't answer my questions, or perhaps, your answer is exactly as I had imagined?" Upon hearing this, Eva bit her lip.

She tried to envision the scenario in her mind, if Adrian were to kidnap her, forcing her and the children to live with him.

No, she couldn't accept it, not even from him.

Whoever it may be, no matter how close they were to her, she could not condone any act that broke the law.

With this in mind, Eva disregarded how her forthcoming words might hurt Adrian and spoke bluntly. "Yes, you're right. If you kidnap me, I would not stay by your side." Adrian's gaze darkened.

"Similarly, just because I'm not by your side doesn't mean I'll be by his. If I choose to stay with you, it'll be based on my own willingness, not because someone forced me." Her message was clear enough. As for what Adrian would think next, that was his business.

Eva didn't wait for him to respond. She turned and left, leaving Adrian standing there alone.

It wasn't until she had been gone for quite some time that Adrian suddenly realized what he had said in his impulsive moment.

He furrowed his brows, feeling a tinge of regret.

In his impulsiveness, he had spoken without thinking.

She was right, whom she chose to stay with was her decision, not something forced upon her by anyone else.

With that thought, Adrian quickly followed after her.

Fortunately, Eva hadn't gone far, so within a few strides, Adrian caught up to her, took her wrist, and pulled her back into his arms. "Sorry, I was impulsive. Don't be mad at me."

Eva pushed him away a couple of times, accidentally touching his wound, making Adrian grunt in pain.

In her haste, she had forgotten about his injuries. Eva quickly withdrew her hand and looked up at him.

"Are you okay?"

Adrian gazed down at her with a heavy look in his eyes. "I'm fine. Even if I'm not, it's my own doing, and I'll bear it. It was wrong of me to say what I did. You can hit the wound if it makes you feel better." And with that, Adrian even guided her hand toward his injury.

Eva's face paled, and only after her hand had touched his wound, did she jerk it away. But in that instant, she had also caused pain, and a cold sweat broke out on Adrian's forehead.

After pulling her hand back, she scolded him worriedly, "Are you crazy?"

Then, she steadied Adrian and took him back to the room they'd come from to undo his shirt buttons and check on his injury.

Indeed, once the clothes were removed, Eva saw that his wound had started to bleed again, staining the white bandage with a startling red.

Just that brief glimpse of the fresh blood made her head spin with dizziness, not to mention the pain that Adrian must be enduring at that moment.

She took out her phone, about to call a doctor, but Adrian snatched it from her and said, "I spoke out of turn, consider this as punishment. Don't call anyone."

 

 

Chapter 426 Willingly and Wholeheartedly

The phone was completely taken from her, and Eva couldn't regain it.

She dared not snatch it back, fearing the struggle might worsen his pain.

"What punishment? Even if you misspoke, that has nothing to do with your injury."

Regardless of what she said, Adrian seemed deaf to her words, as if he had steeled himself to be punished.

Seeing his unyielding demeanor, Eva could only say, "Even if punishment is due, there could be other ways." Other ways?

At last, Adrian lifted his head to look at her.

"What kind of punishment do you suggest?"

Eva thought it over seriously. "There are ways to punish, but not now. Wait until your wound is healed."

"And after the punishment, will you forgive me?"

"Let's talk about that later."

His words today had indeed angered Eva.

Adrian, seeing her reaction, his gaze darkened a touch, but he said no more.

"Hand me your phone, so I can call the doctor to come and redress your wound."

After a brief silence, Adrian finally handed over the phone.

Eva sighed internally as she took it. Because of his sudden episode, she hadn't been able to see Emily off properly.

But with Nathan at her side, she didn't have to worry.

After the call, the doctor quickly arrived and redressed Adrian's wound.

During the process, the doctor couldn't help but ask, "What happened to this wound? Wasn't it treated yesterday? Why does it look worse? What did you do?"

Adrian replied calmly, "I accidentally bumped into something."

The doctor was momentarily speechless.

"Mr. Blackwood, this injury of yours... it's not fatal but shouldn't be taken lightly. You must take proper care of it. What if it leads to complications? What do you think will happen to your body then? And what about Ms. Hansen? And your children?"

The doctor's words left Adrian with no room for rebuttal, and he could only promise to be more careful in the future.

What every doctor hopes for is that each patient follows their advice for a speedy recovery.

Thus, the doctor was satisfied with Adrian's response and soon left.

Once the doctor was gone, Eva looked at Adrian and spoke softly, "No matter what, never joke with your life."

"I'm well aware. If I died, my kids might really end up belonging to someone else."

Adrian had genuinely wanted to punish himself to ease her mind; he hadn't expected to hit her sore spots both times. "I'm sorry."

Beyond apologizing, Adrian didn't know what else to say.

Seeing his remorse, Eva found it hard to continue the reprimand.

Finally, she said, "If there's nothing else, I'm going to go."

As she turned to leave, her wrist was caught by Adrian. "Where are you going?"

Eva paused. "Just downstairs for a walk."

"You don't want to stay with me? Or does being with me make you uncomfortable?"

Hearing this, Eva's eyebrows knitted together slightly. He was in front of her now, yet seemed to become especially fragile?

All she wanted was to go outside for a walk, and yet it was as if he couldn't bear to be apart from her, his mind a whirl of irrational thoughts.

She hadn't realized that men could also show such vulnerability.

With these thoughts in mind, Eva turned her head to look at him.

"It's not that I feel uncomfortable, but you've been injured. Shouldn't you be resting?"

"Right." Adrian nodded. "But I want you to stay with me."

Eva sighed, "Didn't I keep you company all of last night?"

She couldn't be expected to stay here with him forever, could she? She still had to check on the children.

"Eva." He pulled her close, his voice husky, "I'm a patient, in need of continuous company."

Seeing her offer no resistance, Adrian confidently pulled her onto his lap, his hand naturally finding her waist. Eva involuntarily shuddered, not yet recovering her senses before being enveloped in his embrace. Adrian lowered his head, burying it in the crook of her neck, almost greedily inhaling her scent.

The warm breath he exhaled was fully bestowed upon Eva's neck, causing her sensitive skin to shiver several times.

Before long, Adrian seemed to lose control, pressing his soft, thin lips against her neck. Once she felt the moist touch, Eva suddenly realized what was happening and instinctively pushed at him. "Don't..."

However, she misjudged the placement of her hand, almost touching his wound. She had to quickly slide it down, resting on his lower abdomen instead.

Though her hand avoided the injury, the accidental touch made Adrian groan involuntarily.

And that sound gave a clear indication of how he felt...

With just one ear catching it, Eva's face flushed red.

"Why... would you make such a sound?"

Regrettably, Adrian felt no shame, merely grasping her hand, his voice rough, "How can you blame me? Would I do this if your hand wasn't wandering?" Shocked and annoyed, Eva swiftly withdrew her hand.

Seeing her embarrassment, even coloring her ears pink, Adrian's lips curved into a pleasing arc. "Are you blushing?"

Eva pushed him away immediately, "I'm going to check on Ruby and Dylan."

After a few steps, Adrian's voice followed her. "I will take care of what you want to be done."

Hearing this, Eva paused mid-step. The things she wanted done?

She couldn't help but turn back to look at Adrian. "What do you mean?"

"Aren't you curious about how Michael is doing now?" Adrian's demeanor was very calm, his voice steady, "I'll investigate for you and confirm his status before letting you know."

He spoke the words while Eva watched him silently. Only after he finished speaking, she finally said, "You really don't have to do that."

She wanted to know news of Michael but didn't want to actually hear it from Adrian. If the roles were reversed, if Adrian had sought to hear news of Vivian from her, then bitterness and anger would have likely festered in her heart. The converse would hold true as well.

"You don't need to overthink it, my actions aren't entirely for you." Adrian said as he rose carefully and walked over to her. "He was a friend of mine once. Your words had merit. Maybe he's changed because of things we're unaware of. So, as an old friend, it's also a choice I can make." Adrian took her hand. "I know he has been helping and taking care of you for the past five years. If possible, I don't want to see you disappointed. As for these actions, they are all willingly done."

 

Chapter 427 I Will Find a Way to Rescue Him

Ever since Adrian promised to look into this matter for her, including David's injury, his people had moved swiftly.

By the next day, Eva had received the latest news about Michael: he was wounded, and David was nowhere to be found.

"Vanished?" The news gave Eva an ominous feeling. Previously, when she was with Michael, David had been absent for several days. When she inquired about him, only then did he appear, already badly injured. But Eva couldn't see just how badly, since she couldn't just strip off his clothes to check.

Afterwards, he had let her escape, even taking her out of there. Upon returning, Michael would be even less merciful towards him.

And now... who knew what had become of him?

With Michael injured as well, might he lash out in anger and take it all out on David?

Considering the possibilities, Eva couldn't help but stand up.

Adrian grasped her wrist. "Don't panic just yet."

Calmed by him, Eva bit her lip. Indeed, panicking was pointless. What could she do to help?

"So now... what shall we do?" She turned to Adrian, seeking his thoughts.

Adrian pursed his lips. "He helped you, and thus he helped me too. Don't worry, I will find a way to rescue him."

Jacob also tried to squeeze out a reassuring smile beside them.

"Yes, Ms. Hansen, don't worry, we'll keep working on a plan." he reassured.

Eva glanced at both men and finally nodded. "Thank you for your efforts."

However, two days later, there was still no news of David.

It was as if he had disappeared from the world.

Eva felt so worried she could hardly eat.

Reflecting on the past five years, David had often shadowed her.

"Ms. Hansen, Mr. Cooper has sent me to pick you up. When do you finish work?"

"Ms. Hansen, this is something Mr. Cooper asked me to bring to you. When would be a good time for me to deliver it?"

"Ms. Hansen, please let me take these. I came to help anyway. If you don't let me carry them, Mr. Cooper will scold me later."

"Ms. Hansen, it's raining today. Remember to take an umbrella when you go out, and the temperature is low, so remember to wear warmer clothes."

Various scenes appeared before Eva, and her eyes unconsciously reddened.

Although David always claimed he was following Michael's orders, he indeed provided her with a lot of genuine help, especially during their last encounter when he aided her.

Without him, she might still be under Michael's soft detention.

Seeing the redness in her eyes, Jacob immediately grew anxious and blurted out in a flurry, "Ms. Hansen, please don't be sad. If David had the courage to rescue you, then he was prepared for the consequences. He knew what he would face, so you..."

But as he spoke, Jacob felt his words trailing off into error, and his voice grew softer and softer.

The atmosphere abruptly turned solemn.

Adrian, who observed her distress for others, felt a surge of restlessness swell in his chest. His hands clenched by his sides before he finally relaxed them.

"Don't worry. Sometimes no news is good news. At least it isn't bad news, right?"

Upon hearing this, Jacob quickly agreed, "Yes, Ms. Hansen, Mr. Blackwood is right. No news is actually the best news. Rest assured, we will continue to seek information, and if there's a chance to rescue him, we'll certainly do our best." Despite their efforts to console her, Eva's mood did not improve. She leaned against the window, serenely gazing into the distance.

She couldn't understand why things had taken such a sudden turn for the worse. Life was supposed to proceed smoothly, yet it had become incredibly tumultuous.

"Mommy, what's wrong?" The voices of the two little ones came from behind her, pulling Eva back to reality.

She snapped out of her thoughts to see both kids looking at her with concern.

"Ruby, Dylan."

The siblings moved closer, snuggling up to her side.

"Mommy, you've seemed unhappy these past few days."

Indeed, she was already out, but why couldn't she find happiness? Perhaps it was because the issue remained unresolved.

Before two young children, Eva couldn't afford to be too obvious with her feelings, forcing a smile as she said, "No, I was just lost in thought, there's really nothing wrong. I'm sorry for worrying you both, all right?" The two kids exchanged glances, yet didn't answer her question.

Instead, Ruby squeezed in beside her, asking in a whisper, "Mommy, are we not going to see Uncle Michael again in the future?"

The sudden question took Eva by surprise, making her falter, "What?"

She was taken aback by the mention of Michael, never expecting the little ones to bring him up on their own. Hearing her mother's "what" Ruby thought Eva hadn't heard her properly and repeated her question.

"Mommy, are we never going to see Uncle Michael again? Did Uncle Michael do something wrong to you?" Eva looked down at Ruby nestled at her side, finding herself at a loss for words in response to her question. Dylan, being more thoughtful than Ruby, heard the repeated question and quickly reached out to pull her away. "Ruby, let's not pry into Mommy's affairs." he said, then attempted to lead Ruby away.

Eva stopped them both in their tracks.

"If there's something you want to know, just ask. There's nothing I can't respond to. Dylan, I know you always mean well for me, but you're just a child, you don't need to always worry on my behalf. Understand?" "Mommy..." Dylan fidgeted with the hem of his shirt.

"Alright" Eva soothed, pinching the kids' cheeks gently. "About your question from earlier, let me give you an official answer now. Whether we will see Michael again, I'm not quite sure. But what I can tell you is that he is ill at the moment. When he recovers, perhaps you'll see him again."

Ill?

Ruby asked, "Then Mommy, when will Uncle Michael get better?"

Her innocence posed a tough question for Eva.

"Well, I'm not certain, but he will get better, for sure."

Life always needs a bit of hope, doesn't it? Eva secretly wished for Michael's psychological condition to improve quickly, longing for everything to return to normal.

 

Chapter 428 Rivalry

After Eva's explanation, the children had come to believe that Michael was sick now but that he would get better, and by that time, he'd still be their Uncle Michael. Upon receiving this news, the children couldn't have been more relieved. Just then, Adrian arrived, and the two kids immediately engaged him in lively chatter. Of course, they hadn't altered how they addressed him, they still called him Uncle Blackwood.

Dylan seemed fine, while Ruby reached out to Adrian, asking for a hug.

Adrian didn't think twice about it. Seeing her request for an embrace, he naturally squatted down towards her.

Eva hurried over upon seeing this. "Ruby, he's still injured."

Her words made Ruby halt in her tracks, and then she just stared blankly at Adrian before quickly withdrawing her hands.

The little girl not only stopped but even took a couple of steps back to avoid making contact with Adrian.

Her actions left Adrian slightly taken aback, and after a moment, he couldn't help but laugh helplessly, "It's just a minor injury, and given her small size, she won't cause any harm to my wound, right?" Eva, however, disagreed and said seriously, "No, Ruby is very active."

Indeed, Ruby was light, but holding her still had its weight, and with her hyperactivity, what if she accidentally kicked his wound?

His injury was severe, and although it was recovering well these past days, a reopening would be painful.

Hearing Eva's words, Ruby sensibly didn't insist on being carried by Adrian anymore. Adrian himself insisted he was fine, so Ruby had no choice but to kindly say, "Uncle Blackwood, wait until your injury is healed, then you can hug me." Adrian, squatting there, evidently felt helpless, yet could ultimately only agree, "Alright, we'll wait a few days for a hug."

He always wanted to be closer to his own daughter and son.

Although the two of them hadn't started to call him 'Dad' yet, maybe not even aware that they were his biological children, Ruby was more proactive towards him and showed warmth, unlike Dylan.

With these thoughts in mind, Adrian's gaze shifted to Dylan.

The boy's internal world was heavier than he had imagined.

He wondered when Dylan would truly open his heart to him.

And had he opened his heart to Michael?

Adrian decided that he needed to find an opportunity to have a good talk with him.

While Adrian was thinking about finding the right moment, Ruby suddenly asked Eva to take her to see the new clothes prepared by the housemaid yesterday.

As Ruby was a girl, she and Eva left together, and Dylan didn't follow.

That left only Dylan and Adrian remaining at the scene.

The opportunity had presented itself quite unexpectedly.

Adrian gestured to him, "Dylan."

Dylan and Adrian had grown quite familiar with each other, from the initial awkwardness to now being able to interact naturally. Otherwise, he would have left with his mom and Ruby a moment ago. With that thought, Dylan walked over and called out dutifully, "Uncle Blackwood."

Adrian patted the spot next to him, indicating for him to sit down.

Dylan didn't refuse and promptly walked up to him to take a seat.

Though only a little guy, he was quite astute. Sitting down, he sensed that Uncle Blackwood likely had something important to discuss with him.

"Dylan," Adrian said, looking at him with an easygoing tone, as if merely making small talk. "Can I ask you a question?"

Dylan nodded and asked, "What is it you want to ask, Uncle Blackwood?"

"Do you think I'm qualified to be your dad and Ruby's?"

He didn't ask if Dylan was willing, but whether he thought Adrian was qualified.

Dylan might have been young, but he had already learned much, so he quickly grasped the meaning behind Adrian's words. He paused for a good while before responding, "That... depends on whether Mommy agrees."

"I mean, putting aside your mom's opinion, considering only your own true feelings, do you think I qualify to be your and Ruby's dad?" He paused to allow his words to sink in. Then he continued.

"Don't be scared." Adrian said, his large hand resting on Dylan's shoulder, his voice unusually gentle. "Just tell the truth."

The words Dylan had in mind could offend Adrian, the man may have done a lot for them lately, not to mention always watching their live streams.

The aura of the name 'Blackwood' held substantial sway over the two little ones. For instance, would they have accepted a stranger claiming to be their biological father so quickly if he didn't have 'Blackwood' preceding his name? Not likely, as there would be a sense of great distance.

That sense of distance is a treacherous thing.

And habits can change a lot about people.

Just like for them, having grown accustomed to a man named Blackwood always showing up to watch their streams, come rain or shine, and always tipping generously.

They had gotten used to having this name in their lives.

So, when Adrian appeared as Blackwood, he instantly occupied an unmovable place in the hearts of the two little ones.

But even so... Dylan shook his head.

"Uncle Blackwood, if you want the truth, then no."

The answer was within Adrian's expectations.

It seemed he had already anticipated Dylan's response, so surprisingly, Adrian didn't feel disappointed or anything similar.

He just looked at Dylan, quietly asking, "Can you tell me what else I need to do?"

Upon hearing this, Dylan cast a glance at him, then shook his head again: "I don't know."

"You don't know?"

"Yeah." Dylan nodded. "Uncle Blackwood, I just feel that if you were qualified, Mommy would surely have accepted you by now." At that moment, Adrian came to a sudden realization.

Indeed, how had he not considered this before, if he were deemed worthy, Eva would naturally have the children call him differently.

"So, what you're saying is that you still care about what your mommy thinks, right?"

After all was said and done, the conversation came full circle.

"Uncle Blackwood, Ruby and I only have Mommy. Of course, we only care about what she thinks."

It made sense, since they had been raised by Eva alone from a young age, naturally, they only cared about her perspective.

"Hmm." Adrian grunted, yet his heart remained stubborn, and he pressed on, "What do you think, then? For instance, about me... compared to Michael."

This question finally elicited a reaction from the five-year-old Dylan.

That was the crux of what Uncle Blackwood had been leading up to all this time.

Back when Dylan was attending school, he had seen two men, driven by jealousy, vying for their teacher's affections. They were unable to resist competing with each other, even coming to blows in the end. Uncle Blackwood and Uncle Michael were both pursuing Mommy. As romantic rivals, it seemed natural for them to want to outdo each other, wasn't that to be expected?

 

Chapter 429 Why Force It?

This internal debate... it gnaws at him. If he were to admit that he has a soft spot for Uncle Cooper, what then? The thought alone causes Dylan Hansen to blurt out, "Uncle Cooper has been with us for longer." At those words, Adrian Blackwood's breath catches in his throat.

"So..." he begins tentatively.

"Yet, Uncle Blackwood always watches our streams, and you don't skimp on the tips," Dylan adds, his sentence lifting Adrian's sinking heart back into hopeful suspension. Adrian initially feared a verdict against him was coming, but Dylan's words sent his heart into a flutter, the anticipation heating up his emotions like a steak on a sizzling grill. "And so?" Adrian asks, his voice tense.

He never imagined himself so anxious over a child's opinion, dreading the thought of not being chosen, of being sidelined for someone else.

"So..." Dylan drawls out the word, mischief in his eyes as he watches Adrian's breath hitch. Tilting his head playfully, he declares, "It's a tie between Uncle Blackwood and Uncle Cooper."

A tie? Adrian is momentarily stunned.

"A tie, really?"

"Uncle Blackwood, did you really think you'd lose to Uncle Cooper?"

Adrian's lips purse subtly-he isn't ready to admit it, but he had thought just that. After all, he missed out on years of being there for them. Presence is powerful, and absence even more poignant.

With that realization, a hint of a smile graces Adrian's lips. His hand rests gently on Dylan's head, and he whispers, "Uncle Blackwood is happy to hear you say that."

Their conversation is cut short as Eva returns with Ruby Hansen dressed in new clothes; the talk of ties and rankings is put on pause.

To Adrian Blackwood, a tie is a victory, at least for now. It signals that soon, he could very well overtake Michael Cooper's place in the little ones' hearts. He suddenly can't help but feel grateful for all those times he tuned into their livestreams.

By the time afternoon came around, Eva was informed that her passport and other documents were all set, and she could buy a ticket to return home at any moment.

Yet there was still no word from David, and to make matters worse, Michael Cooper had been injured.

If she left now, Eva felt an unsettling sense of incompletion.

Adrian Blackwood saw the turmoil in her soul and offered, "You go back first. I'll stay here to take care of things. The kids need to be in school."

"You're staying?"

Eva's eyebrows knitted in concern. "What for? Haven't we almost wrapped everything up here?"

"I promised to rescue David, and I intend to keep that promise."

Eva felt guilty knowing he was still looking out for her despite his own injuries. Now that he insisted on staying back, the weight on her heart grew heavier.

"Let's get you on the evening flight. Brent will accompany you home. Until I return, he'll protect you every step of the way," Adrian assured her. "Once you're back, don't stay in your old house. Move to mine. Jacob will arrange for round-the- clock security."

Even though he wasn't returning yet, he had arranged everything as if he were.

Listening to Adrian lay out his plans one by one, Eva felt a tightness in her heart. She bit her lower lip and asked, "Can't these things abroad be handled by someone else?"

"What if they don't handle it well?" he replied. "Besides, if it weren't for that person, it might have taken a lot more effort to find you."

Even though he'd always find her in the end.

"No more worries," Adrian said softly as he wrapped his arm around her slender waist when he saw she was about to speak again. "If I've chosen to stay, it's because I'm confident." "But... these aren't things you should have to do."

"Eve," Adrian called her name softly, "It's never about what one should or shouldn't do, it's about willingness."

"If you feel sorry about me staying behind, perhaps you can consider making my role official once I'm back?"

Eva instantly got his hint; he referred to the issue of titles.

He wanted the kids to stop calling him Uncle Blackwood and to start calling him Dad.

Was he going through all this trouble just for such a small wish?

With that realization, Eva paused, "Won't you tell them?"

Adrian's lips curved into a subtle smile, leaving her question unanswered.

For a while, he spoke softly, "I won't be meeting them this time. Let's leave it for the next visit. I hope by then, I'll have received some favors from you, and they won't be calling me Uncle Blackwood anymore." Clearly, he had his sights set on something more.

"Go on," she urged him.

Before she had a chance to think further, Adrian Blackwood had gently nudged her up, prompting her to go into the room and pack.

Afterward, Adrian left, likely feeling a bit melancholic about their impending separation, choosing not to stay with her.

Eva sat alone in the vast room, her gaze sweeping over the empty space and considering the fact that she would be staying behind to search for David. A growing sense of loneliness started to settle in her heart.

-

The kids, learning they were returning to the states, cheered joyfully, already talking about visiting Auntie George and missing their own school.

Their flight was scheduled for nine in the evening, and with four hours to go before their departure, they had dinner together as was their custom.

However, as Eva and the kids came downstairs, Adrian Blackwood was nowhere to be seen.

Just the three of them.

Eva couldn't help but inquire, "Where is he?"

Jacob, standing respectfully by her side, replied, "Ms. Hansen, Mr. Blackwood had to leave for some urgent business. He said you should start supper without waiting for him."

Stepped out? Right now, of all times? She and the children were leaving tonight, and he had acted so nonchalant in the afternoon.

Not only did he not accompany them home, he wouldn't even share a last meal with them. Eva was at a loss for words.

Ruby Hansen, innocent as ever, blurted out, "Why, Uncle Jacob? Where did Uncle Blackwood go? Is he not hungry?"

Faced with the child's candid question, Jacob hardly knew how to weave a lie, merely averting his eyes as if he knew nothing, saying, "I'm not sure. He didn't tell me what he was going out for." Eva silently watched him, noting how he nervously touched his nose after his explanation-a clear sign of his discomfort.

He was no good at lying.

Sighing inwardly, Eva didn't press further and simply focused on her dinner.

If he didn't wish to spend more time with them before they left, why should she insist on it?

 

Chapter 430 I Can't Let You Go

And so dinner went just as Eva had expected-by the time they were nearly finished, by the time the meal had grown cold, Adrian Blackwood had still not appeared. And now there was only an hour left before they headed to the airport.

Eva shepherded her two little ones up the stairs, and once they were tucked into the room, Ruby Hansen couldn't hold back her question: "Mommy, where's Uncle Blackwood? When's he coming back?" Eva responded in the same way Jacob had answered her queries earlier.

"Just like your Uncle Jacob, I'm not sure, sweetheart. He didn't tell Mommy what he was up to, so I have no idea when he'll be back."

Hearing this, Ruby gave a soft "Oh" and frowned, obviously troubled by the uncertainty.

"Mommy, Uncle Blackwood isn't going to miss us going to the airport, is he? Are we not going to see him at all today?"

Eva, not wanting to build false hopes in the kids, replied candidly, "Hmm, perhaps that's the case. Your Uncle Blackwood has a lot on his plate. Once he wraps everything up, he'll come back to the U.S. to find us."

By framing it this way, the children wouldn't cling to the hope of seeing him before their flight but would look forward to reuniting back home instead. Thus, they could avoid feeling disappointed.

Sure enough, her words seemed to convince Ruby, who dropped the topic.

An hour later, there was a knock on the door.

"Ms. Hansen, it's time to head to the airport."

Given the distance to the airport and the potential for traffic jams, it was best to leave early. Hearing the knock, Eva replied promptly.

"We'll be right there."

After gathering the luggage and summoning the kids, she commanded, "Let's go."

The children followed, each dragging their mini suitcases behind them. As Eva opened the door, Jacob stepped forward to take the luggage, then took the kids' suitcases as well.

The gesture wasn't particularly charming, but it brought Eva back to moments when David had done the same always taking care of their luggage when he was with them. It had been several days, and his current whereabouts... she couldn't help but wonder.

Leaving now, she realized she hadn't heard from him.

She hoped he was okay-at the very least... still alive.

Taking the luggage from Jacob, he then turned to the kids and suggested, "How about hopping on the suitcases? Uncle Jacob can push you along."

The children, loving the idea, climbed on with Jacob's assistance, and he began pushing them. Since he was handling them and a suitcase, Eva was left to carry the last one.

It belonged to Dylan Hansen - a modest little suitcase, light as a feather.

Eva trailed behind, dragging the compact case at a snail's pace.

Her slow gait inevitably put some distance between her and the others - a gap that grew wider by the moment. Just as she was about to pick up the pace, a door in the hallway suddenly swung open, and a long arm reached out, grabbing her shoulder. Before she could register what was happening, she was yanked inside.

Her heart hitched, fearing it was one of Michael Cooper's thugs, coming to drag her back. Instinctively, she tried to scream.

But her captor seemed to anticipate this, covering her mouth in the nick of time.

"Mmph!" Her cry was muffled into a garbled whimper.

The room was pitch-black, the door snapped shut behind them, leaving them only the faint glow creeping in from the outside to discern the tall figure looming before her. Eva couldn't make out who it was, helplessly restrained until the hand pressing on her lips finally released.

When Eva was about to speak, her captor leaned in and silenced her with a kiss. Ragged breaths and warm puffs of air clashed with her face, allowing her to at last distinguish his scent. This was...

Surprise flickered through her, but before she could react further, she felt him pry her lips apart, deepening the kiss.

Entwined breaths, their mingling scents enveloped them.

Eva even detected the strong tobacco odor.

Adrian Blackwood... he smoked?

But he never smoked, did he? Why now?

A jolt of pain on her lip brought her back to her senses, and she heard the man pressing her against the door chastise in a low growl, "Distracted at a time like this? Thinking about him?" It took Eva a while to grasp who 'he' was, only realizing as his lips descended once more.

But it was too late to answer his question. The kiss grew fierce, assertive, relentless.

Towards the end, Eva's neck was arched back, forced to yield to Adrian Blackwood's dominating kiss.

"Mmph..." She struggled to breathe, whimpering involuntarily, hands pushing against his chest.

Yet, the man in front of her seemed insatiable as ever. Her pushes only led him to seize her wrists and tug them behind him, compelling her to wrap her arms around his waist.

Eva's embrace was involuntary, her arms encircling his frame.

The kiss persisted, its intensity climbing.

As their lips parted, Eva felt as if a layer of water had washed over her eardrums. Her head swam in bewilderment, her body went limp, and she could only remain upright by leaning on Adrian Blackwood's steadying hands. His breath came in rough whispers against her ear, each exhale heavier than the last, sending a flush to Eva's cheeks.

It was just a kiss. Why was he panting as if something intense had just happened?

With these thoughts swirling in her head, Eva bit her bottom lip, gently pushed him, and said, "Weren't you tied up with something, said you wouldn't come back, that you wouldn't see me? What's up with this all of a sudden?" Her voice cracked the silence, betraying a softness akin to water and a tinge of vulnerability.

After speaking her piece, she pursed her lips, reluctant to utter another word.

Adrian remained silent beside her, continuing to catch his breath until finally, with a raspy voice, he confessed, "I'm afraid if I see you, I won't ever want to let you go."

As he tightened his embrace, burying his face in the crook of her neck and greedily inhaling her scent, he whispered, "Just like now."

Her heart stirred at his words, and her hands instinctively crawled up his back, drawing herself closer.

Was the fear of not wanting to let her go the true reason he had avoided seeing her?

And did he feel the same for the two kids-just like now?