Ch. 481..490

Chapter 481 Administering an IV

Both of them looked over at him.

They saw Michael Cooper looking at him with a calm gaze.

"Prescribe the medications."

Having served as his family doctor for many years, the doctor wasn't overly intimate with Michael Cooper but certainly knew him well.

Hearing Michael Cooper's words, the doctor paused before speaking, "Mr. Cooper, I don't mean to overstep, but you heard what I said just now, right? She isn't physically ill; what kind of medication do you expect me to prescribe? Taking unnecessary medication can cause problems."

Michael Cooper looked at him coldly.

"Didn't you say she has psychosomatic disorders? Then prescribe medication for that."

"This... psychosomatic disorders aren't typically treated with medication, but with therapy."

Jane, standing by and watching the scene unfold, was also bewildered. She had thought Mr. Cooper cared greatly for Ms. Hansen, but despite the doctor saying her issue was psychological and could not be treated with medication, he insisted on a prescription. What did this mean?

"Mr. Cooper, the doctor already said that Ms. Hansen she..."

"Do you have a say in this?"

However, her words were cut off halfway through.

Michael Cooper's gaze was icy as he looked at her.

"You are no longer needed here, get out."

Jane, concerned about Eva, hadn't expected that speaking out would result in being sent away by Michael Cooper.

She pursed her lips, feeling somewhat unwilling to leave.

The doctor had clearly explained Ms. Hansen's condition, yet Mr. Cooper was acting this way. Did he intend to harm Ms. Hansen?

During this time, Ms. Hansen had been quite kind to Jane, and Jane subconsciously wanted to stand up for Eva, yet unexpectedly, the doctor chose this moment to say, "Fine, I'll prescribe the medication." "Doctor!" Jane exclaimed, her eyes widening in shock, "Didn't you just say...?"

"Didn't you hear what Mr. Cooper said? Prescribe it."

Jane: "..."

Previously, she had only suspected Mr. Cooper of madness, but now she doubted the sanity of the doctor as well. Mr. Cooper might not understand, but as a doctor, shouldn't he know better?

But she had no real say here, and could only watch helplessly as he wrote the prescription and then turned to tell her.

"Let her take a good rest, I'll explain to you outside how to administer this medication."

Jane was indignant inside, and even though the doctor called her, she didn't want to leave. Eventually, he had to pull her by the sleeve to take her out of the room.

Once outside, Jane shook off his hand.

"Doctor, I never expected you to be this kind of person!"

At her words, the doctor gave her a sidelong glance.

"What kind of person am I? You think you know me just like that?"

During their talk, the doctor handed her a bottle of medicine.

"Take this, give her one pill a day."

Jane stepped back.

"I don't want it! Doctor, that's too much. Didn't you say Ms. Hansen has a psychological issue? She isn't physically ill, she can't just take any medication. After what you said earlier, I thought you were kind-hearted and truly upheld medical ethics, but now I see you're not like what I imagined at all. You've disappointed me greatly."

Just after she finished speaking, Jane felt a heavy knock on her forehead.

Instinctively, she covered her forehead with her hand.

"Doctor!"

"Don't you even ask what kind of medication I'm giving you before accusing me of lacking medical ethics? Isn't that a bit irrational?"

The initially agitated Jane realized something when she heard this, "What medication?"

"Vitamins," the doctor said, shaking the bottle of pills in his hand at her. "Do you want them?"

Hearing that he had prescribed vitamins for Eva, Jane suddenly realized her misunderstanding and felt somewhat embarrassed, especially since she had just accused him of lacking medical ethics, which was certainly a grave insult to any doctor. "Doctor, I didn't... I didn't mean to."

"It's fine, I know you meant well; it's just that your anxiety got the better of you. Be more astute next time."

"But doctor, what should we do about Ms. Hansen?" She looked at the bottle of vitamins she received from the doctor with a troubled expression. "Hansen seems to have a psychological illness, so these vitamins won't really help, will they?" "That's correct." The doctor's expression became serious: "So this medication can only serve as a temporary measure, then you need to find a way to convince Michael Cooper to get her a psychologist, to address her underlying issues. However, my guess is that if the current situation isn't resolved, even a psychologist might not be able to help much. Her condition is more serious than I thought."

"Alright, I understand, doctor. I'll do my best."

The doctor patted her on the shoulder: "We need to go back in and give her an IV; she's very weak right now."

"Doctor, let me help you."

After that, the two went back in to administer the IV to Eva.

While searching for a vein, the doctor noticed that she had lost even more weight since their last encounter.

He frowned as he set up the IV for her.

After being busy for a while, the doctor said to Michael Cooper: "Let her rest. She'll wake up later, and there should be no serious problem."

Michael Cooper looked at him emotionlessly and said, "Thank you."

Seeing his expression, the doctor opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something, but ultimately he swallowed his words and said nothing. Eva woke up in the afternoon.

Perhaps it was the recuperation, or maybe it was the effects of the IV, but her complexion looked much better.

Upon awakening, Eva saw Michael Cooper sitting by the bed.

As soon as she opened her eyes, they met Michael Cooper's gaze.

After only a brief eye contact with him, Eva closed her eyes again.

Delighted that she had awakened and just about to greet her, Michael Cooper was left speechless: "..."

Her apparent aversion caused a lump in Michael Cooper's throat, as if something was stuck there. More agonizing than this was the sensation in his chest, as if he were being slowly tormented with a small knife. Unable to get a quick resolution, he felt like he was enduring slow torture.

Michael Cooper's throat bobbed as he finally spoke with a bitter tone, "You're awake? Are you thirsty? Do you want some water?"

The person with closed eyes did not move, as if the momentary opening of her eyes had been his illusion.

After his earlier uncontrolled behavior, Eva now really didn't want to deal with him at all.

Aside from bitterness, Michael Cooper felt helpless and could only sit beside her and wait.

Eva thought that by ignoring him, he might leave, but to her surprise, even though she kept her eyes closed and stayed still, he remained by her side, not moving.

Because of the IV, Eva now needed to address some physiological needs.

When she first awoke, she felt the need to go to the bathroom. After holding it for a while, she could no longer bear it and reopened her eyes, asking directly, "Where's Jane?"

Seeing that she was finally willing to speak to him, Michael Cooper's heart eased, and he immediately said, "She had to step out for a bit. Are you thirsty? Shall I get you some water?" "No, thanks."

"Then what do you want to do? Just tell me, I..."

"Could you please leave?"

Eva turned her head away, noticing his pained look.

She could only say expressionlessly, "Please leave, I need to use the bathroom."

 

Chapter 482 Let Her Die by Your Side

After she uttered these words, Michael Cooper was clearly taken aback.

A few seconds later, he recovered, and his lips slightly curled up.

"So you want to go to the bathroom. You probably don't have the strength right now? Should I carry you?"

Eva: "...Do you think I would want you to carry me?"

At this, Michael Cooper's gaze darkened once more.

"Right, you wouldn't agree. I'll call someone else to help you."

Having said that, Michael Cooper quickly left, likely because he didn't want Eva to feel uncomfortable from holding it in for too long.

Once he had gone, Eva struggled to get out of bed. As she got up, pain shot through her hand, and only then did she notice the needle mark on her wrist when she looked down. Eva frowned delicately.

Before, all she had felt was discomfort, unaware of what had happened, and then she lost consciousness.

She guessed that she must have fainted, and afterward Jane must have found her, called Michael Cooper and the doctor, and they gave her an IV.

Eva didn't dwell on it any further, but getting up was still somewhat difficult. The pain in her hand wasn't an issue; what bothered her more was the weakness in her body, the lack of strength. So, it took some effort for Eva to rise.

The sound of hurried footsteps approached.

An attendant quickly ran to Eva's side, "Ms. Hansen, let me help you with your shoes."

After saying this, the attendant knelt down to put shoes on Eva, and then helped her up from the bed.

"Let's go, Ms. Hansen. I'll take you to the bathroom."

Eva truly had no strength, and with the assistance of another woman, naturally, she did not refuse.

"Thank you."

After using the bathroom, Eva felt much more comfortable. When she lay back down on the bed, Jane had also returned.

Jane was delighted to find Eva awake.

"Ms. Hansen, you finally woke up."

Seeing Jane gave Eva a sense of security at last.

"You're back."

Noticing that Eva's attention glued to Jane as soon as she returned, the attendant realized her help was no longer needed there, said a word to Eva, and then left. Jane, seeing that no one was around, immediately moved closer to chat with Eva.

"Ms. Hansen, how do you feel? Are you a bit more comfortable?"

Compared to before, Eva indeed felt much better at this moment.

She nodded.

Seeing her nod, Jane breathed a sigh of relief.

"That's good. I was really worried the doctor's medication wouldn't work."

Medication?

Eva lowered her gaze thoughtfully to the back of her hand, where a needle mark remained, which was the source of her recent pain. "What's wrong with my body?"

"What else could it be, Ms. Hansen? It's because you haven't been eating properly recently, which led to your body not being able to handle it."

Hearing this, Eva lowered her eyelids and said somewhat helplessly, "Sorry, I want to eat properly, but... I seem to be unable to control myself."

She couldn't quite understand what was wrong. Although her memory was hazy and she couldn't recall any reason to be upset, that also meant she lacked the emotional burden of past troubles. How could Jane not understand?

After all, before Eva fainted, Jane had seen her forcing herself to have half a bowl of soup just so as not to worry her.

For a moment, Jane didn't know what to say.

After all, mentioning in front of Eva that she needed to see a psychologist seemed not okay, didn't it?

Ms. Hansen already had psychological issues, and what if she resisted the idea of seeing a psychologist upon hearing Jane mention it? It could make things worse.

Therefore, in the end, Jane simply advised her to take a good rest and not to think too much about other things.

Once she was sure Eva had lain down to rest again, Jane walked out.

Outside the room

Michael Cooper had not left; knowing that Eva did not want to see him, he waited outside.

Hearing the movement, he looked towards Jane.

His black eyes were cold and emotionless, no longer exhibiting the warmth of past days. His change both surprised and frightened Jane, but she braced herself and said, "Mr. Cooper, Ms. Hansen woke up, but she has gone back to sleep." "Michael Cooper nodded in response and then asked in a calm voice, "How is her condition?"

Jane replied," Ms. Hansen's current state seems okay, but that's probably because of the IV the doctor gave her. The doctor said that the IV can temporarily treat her body, but long-term, Ms. Hansen must resume a normal lifestyle, otherwise..." She didn't continue her sentence, assuming Mr. Cooper, being an intelligent man, would understand.

Unfortunately, it seemed he understood but did not take it to heart.

Because Jane heard Michael Cooper ask her in a cold voice.

"Are you teaching me how to handle things?"

Jane's complexion changed slightly.

"Mr. Cooper, you're my employer, how could I dare to teach you anything? I am simply conveying the doctor's words to you."

"Oh, did he teach you to say that?"

"No, the doctor just..."

"Do you think, like the doctor, that she has a psychological disease?"

Upon hearing this, Jane subconsciously responded.

"Doesn't she?"

Her instinctive reply, so matter-of-factly, caused Michael Cooper to pause.

Seeing him stop and considering the conversation had come to this point, Jane grew bolder and directly said, "Mr. Cooper, if you really care about Ms. Hansen, now is the time to find her a psychologist, isn't it? Otherwise, if something happens to Ms. Hansen later on, it will be too late for regrets and make-up attempts. You might not like what I'm saying, but it is the truth."

After speaking, Jane did not wait to see Michael Cooper's expression and turned to leave.

After she left, Michael Cooper stood in place with a frigid expression.

Michael Cooper remained outside Eva's room for a long time, neither entering nor leaving, just standing there silently without speaking. David, who was watching nearby, observed him in silence.

He knew what had transpired during the whole process.

He watched Michael Cooper-his tall figure standing in front of the room, becoming increasingly solitary as his shadow stretched under the light.

Michael Cooper was known for his gentle demeanor, but in reality, he had a formidable temper and was ruthless in private. Useless people didn't remain around him.

Thus, David was one of the longest-serving individuals by his side and knew his temperament well.

David had witnessed changes in Michael Cooper when he was with Eva. Michael seemed to soften, not as intimidating as before.

He thought that if the two could be together, maybe the shadows of Mr. Cooper's younger years could be gradually healed and fade.

But unexpectedly...

After a while, David finally approached.

"Mr. Cooper."

Hearing the voice, Michael Cooper looked up, his gaze indifferent.

"What is it? Are you also here to persuade me?"

David looked towards the room and shook his head.

"I've said everything that needed to be said; it's up to Mr. Cooper to think things through now. Ms. Hansen... or you think letting her die by your side is better than letting her go back to that man, right?"

 

 

Chapter 483 How Long Can One Survive Without Food and Drink

This was the first time in many years, since Michael Cooper's mother's death, that David had mentioned the word "death" in front of him, and it was regarding Eva. These are the two most important women in his life.

And his mother was already dead.

If something happened to Eva...

In an instant, Michael Cooper's eyes underwent a tremendous change, his gaze piercing as he looked at David.

"What did you say?"

Facing his intimidating gaze, David remained calm.

"Mr. Cooper, without eating, surviving on IV fluids, how long do you think Ms. Hansen can last?"

Michael Cooper: "..."

"A month? I wonder if there's any research on that."

As he spoke, David even took out his phone in front of Michael Cooper, intending to look it up.

"Enough!"

Michael Cooper, finally unable to tolerate any more, stopped him and walked away angrily.

David remained in place, looking indifferently at Michael Cooper storming off before slowly putting away his phone.

Clearly, advising was useless for Michael Cooper now.

What he could do was to amplify the potential consequences of future events to Michael Cooper, even though it might have been a jolt to use the death of Michael's mother as a trigger.

But he truly had no other option now; this was far better than regretting if something indeed happened to Ms. Hansen later on.

Once a person dies, there is no bringing them back to life.

Michael Cooper spent nearly eight hours alone in his study, and there was no response when he was called for a meal.

Concerned, the attendants specifically came to ask David about it.

David said, "When Mr. Cooper is in a bad mood, he likes to be alone. Don't disturb him."

Hearing this, the attendants naturally stopped worrying about why Michael Cooper was still in his study; after all, missing one meal wouldn't kill anyone.

Their real concern was another person.

That person wasn't just refusing to eat, but seemed to vomit whenever she tried. Although this was Ms. Hansen's own issue, their employer would not see it that way. He would think that they were failing in their tasks, unable to make food that Eva liked to eat.

So, they were extremely troubled.

Unfortunately, their struggle was futile. No matter how hard they tried to make delicious food, she still couldn't eat it.

Thus, many attendants knew it wasn't Eva's fault, but they still blamed her.

Who else could they blame when she was seen as the source of the problem?

Jane was nearly furious when she found out, and couldn't resist venting to David upon her return. As Jane complained, David didn't react much, just listening quietly. When Jane realized she had said too much and that David wasn't paying attention, she couldn't help but ask, "David, have you heard what I've been saying?" David seemed lost in thought and didn't respond.

"David, David!"

Jane called his name several times before he finally snapped back to reality.

"Sorry, I was a bit distracted just now. Did you need something?"

Jane: "..."

She was speechless, truly.

Thinking about how her whole rant had just been a pointless performance, she had no energy left to repeat herself.

So, Jane could only shake her head.

"Forget it, it's nothing. What's wrong with you? What are you thinking about?"

What was he thinking about? The question made David lightly tug at the corner of his mouth, "Perhaps I was thinking about when Ms. Hansen might leave." "Ms. Hansen leave?"

Before David mentioned it, Jane had never considered this possibility. Before she came to take care of Eva, she didn't know the whole story, so she always assumed that Eva and Michael Cooper were at least affectionate towards each other for her to stay here.

However, upon closer observation, she realized things might not be as they seemed on the surface. It appeared Ms. Hansen stayed out of necessity rather than choice.

And she didn't love Michael Cooper.

Even though Eva stayed, her mental state became problematic. But despite this, Jane had never thought about her leaving, probably subconsciously feeling that Michael Cooper wouldn't let her go.

Now that David brought it up, Jane started to realize that maybe Ms. Hansen could leave. Maybe if she left, her diseases could be treated?

Thinking this, Jane felt she had added another task to her list.

Originally, her task was simply to persuade Michael Cooper to find Eva a psychologist, but now she had another: to convince Michael Cooper to let Eva leave.

As she thought this, David, as if seeing into her inner thoughts, suddenly said, "Don't assume you can persuade Mr. Cooper by yourself; it might backfire." Startled by his words, Jane hadn't expected him to discern what she was thinking.

But David was right. She was just an attendant, after all. It was better to stick to her own duties to avoid any counterproductive outcomes that could harm Eva. Hmm, what she should do was to console Eva more.

If Michael Cooper wouldn't get Eva a psychologist, then she could seek online consultation for Ms. Hansen.

"I understand, David. I'll go then."

"Go ahead."

When Jane returned to the room, she found Eva was still asleep. As she made sure the blanket was properly covering her, she took out her phone to seek online consultation.

Mental health issues among young people were common nowadays. Not long after graduating, Jane heard that a classmate, overwhelmed by stress, had developed depression and even considered suicide. The news had unsettled everyone in their social circle.

Worried about her own mental health, Jane proactively obtained contact information for a psychologist just in case it would be needed someday. She had been managing her mood quite well on her own and hadn't felt the need to greet the psychologist until today, when the situation with Eva arose.

After greeting the psychologist and explaining Eva's current condition, the prompt reply suggested that Jane bring Eva for an in-person consultation.

Jane immediately felt awkward; the psychologist she had contacted was based in her home country, while they were currently abroad. An in-person visit was out of the question.

She quickly explained their location to the psychologist. Understanding the predicament, the psychologist agreed that they should communicate online for now and, if necessary, arrange an in-person consultation or find another local psychologist later.

Jane began detailing Eva's symptoms to the psychologist when she heard footsteps outside. Startled, she quickly hid her phone, not wanting to be discovered.

Michael Cooper, who had spent a long time alone in his study, walked in expressionless.

Upon seeing Jane standing guard, he asked, "How is she?"

Jane hesitated before responding, "Ms. Hansen has been sleeping."

Michael Cooper's gaze fell upon Eva's fair face, and finally, he said, "Go and get a psychologist."

 

 

Chapter 484 Alone

At first, Jane thought she was hearing things.

Mr. Cooper actually agreed to hire a psychologist for Ms. Hansen?

She was stunned for a moment, then asked, "Mr. Cooper, what did you just say?"

She couldn't quite believe it and wanted to confirm it once more.

Upon hearing her, Michael Cooper's stern gaze swept over to her, startling Jane, who quickly said, "I'll go and arrange it right away." After that, she ran out of the room and bumped into David, who was lurking in the corner, and promptly informed him of the situation. "David, Mr. Cooper finally agreed to get a psychologist for Ms. Hansen."

It was undoubtedly good news for Jane, but after she spoke, no hint of joy appeared on David's face.

His expression seemed to tell her that this was not good news at all.

Thus, the smile slowly faded from Jane's face.

"David? Isn't this a good thing? Why do you seem so unhappy?"

She didn't do something wrong, did she? Although it seemed like she hadn't had the chance to do anything yet.

David glanced at her with a subdued look in his eyes.

"My mood has always been like this. Aren't you supposed to get the psychologist? Go ahead."

David quickly ended the conversation with Jane.

When the psychologist arrived, Eva was still asleep, so Michael Cooper didn't have anyone wake her up but instead told the psychologist to wait.

The psychologist found house calls troublesome enough already, and now they had to wait for the patient; he felt a bit displeased, but immediately, the butler beside him said, "Sorry for the inconvenience, we will triple the consultation fee for your time."

Hearing this, the psychologist lost every trace of discomfort. Triple the house call fee would keep him comfortable even if he had to wait a few more hours.

After about an hour, when Eva woke up, they called the psychologist in.

The psychologist, named Fennis, began to survey the room as soon as he entered.

Although it was daylight, the curtains were drawn, and the light inside relied solely on lamps, casting a dim yellow glow. His patient sat on the sofa, looking extremely frail, with a delicate face and sharp chin due to thinness.

She was dressed very lightly, appearing fragile and weak as she sat there, her eyelids lowered, her demeanor listless.

A young woman, dressed as a maid, stood beside her.

There was also a man in a suit, his expression indifferent, exuding an air of authority.

Just one glance was enough for Fennis to know that he was the master of the house, so he greeted him.

"Hello."

Michael Cooper shook his hand in return.

"Hello."

It was clear the man was not in high spirits, but it seemed normal. He appeared to be the significant other of the woman, and anyone's mood would hardly be bright if their partner needed to see a psychologist. So, without saying much else, Fennis went straight to the point, "I'm sorry, could I have some time alone with Ms Hansen?"

At these words, Michael Cooper's gaze suddenly turned sharp.

"Alone?"

Fennis gave a slight smile, "Yes, it helps patients open up to me."

Many patients with psychological issues are most guarded around the people closest to them.

And often, the problems originate from those close to them, which is why it's best to communicate one-on-one. "How long?"

"It's uncertain. It depends on whether she's willing to communicate and the severity of the patient's condition." Allowing Eva to be alone with a stranger, and not knowing the duration, how could he be at ease with that? Moreover, Eva's body was still so weak, what if she fainted again, and they outside did not know about it?

Fennis noticed the wariness in the other's eyes, a kind of vigilance towards men. He understood, having encountered many such relatives and friends before; but this was his job.

Seeing that the other party was still very concerned, Fennis could only offer reassurance: "Sir, please rest assured, I have over a decade of medical experience, and I am very professional. I will do nothing beyond my work, you can absolutely trust me on that."

Michael Cooper pursed his lips, despite the assurance, it was clear he was still not entirely at ease.

The best he could do was look at the psychologist and say, "Can I speak with you alone for a moment?"

Fennis paused for a second, then nodded.

"Of course."

So, Fennis followed Michael Cooper out of the room.

Jane watched anxiously from the side, her gaze turning towards Eva, who had been sitting up but seemed unresponsive since then.

She wondered whether the consultation with the psychologist would go smoothly?

After waiting around two minutes, the psychologist finally came back inside.

Upon entering, he glanced at Jane.

After making eye contact with him, Jane left the room - after all, if Mr. Cooper couldn't stay, neither should she.

As she walked away, Jane wondered what Mr. Cooper might have said to him when he took him aside.

He had seemed so worried before about Ms. Hansen being alone with a strange man.

Well, it wasn't for her to worry about.

At this time, both Michael Cooper and David were also standing guard outside. When Jane came out and greeted Michael Cooper, he didn't respond due to his preoccupation.

Just a psychological consultation, yet the expressions of the three people standing outside seemed even graver than those waiting outside an operating room.

Time seemed to pass extraordinarily slowly.

Michael Cooper stood silently in place, while Jane's hands were twisted together, biting her lower lip, her expression tense.

In contrast, David appeared the most composed.

It seemed he was prepared for any outcome.

During the long wait, it appeared that sounds came from inside the room; their brows moved, but before they could react, the door opened in front of them. David instinctively lifted his hand and glanced at his wristwatch.

Ten minutes.

From the time he went in until now, it had been just about ten minutes.

David was instantly puzzled. Was the consultation that quick?

He pursed his lips and stepped forward.

"How did it go?"

Fennis looked at the three of them, sighed with utter helplessness, and shook his head.

His expression and gesture instantly made Michael Cooper furrow his brows.

"What do you mean?"

Jane also asked, "Yes, Mr. Fennis, how is Ms. Hansen exactly?"

Fennis let out a long sigh.

"The patient refused to communicate with me."

They thought he would say Eva's condition was severe, but they didn't expect this outcome.

Fennis looked very helpless, "I spent ten minutes, and she kept refusing to communicate with me. If a patient refuses to communicate, gives up hope then..." Before he could finish, Michael Cooper's brows tightened fiercely.

"Only ten minutes and you're giving up? What do you think we're paying you all that consultation fee for?"

 

Chapter 485 The Real Answer

When the topic of the consultation fee came up, Fennis did feel somewhat embarrassed. After all, even the consultation fee was paid double.

Faced with Michael Cooper's cold look, Fennis could only say, "I'll try again."

Before going back into the room, Fennis thought of something and asked, "However, to help her open up a bit, perhaps you could tell me what she's interested in?"

"Interested in?" Jane looked puzzled, as if talking to herself, "I've been with Ms. Hansen for so long, but I've never noticed her taking an interest in anything. Mr. Cooper, do you know?" She turned to Michael Cooper without any guard up and asked softly.

However, what responded to her was Michael Cooper's silence.

David glanced at Michael Cooper, his lips faintly curling with a hint of mockery.

What could Ms. Hansen possibly be interested in now? Nothing more than leaving this place or that person.

Unfortunately, neither of these things would Michael Cooper willingly mention.

As expected, after a long silence, Michael Cooper said to Fennis, "Not sure."

Jane, still looking clueless, asked in surprise, "Eh? Mr. Cooper, you don't know what Ms. Hansen is interested in either? Does Ms. Hansen not have any interests?"

Not knowing if he was tired of her talking too much, but after Jane finished speaking, Michael Cooper glanced at her with a cool look.

Jane: "..."

Feeling an inexplicable chill, she shut her mouth, not daring to speak further.

Fennis, although unaware of what was going on with these people, could obviously feel that something was off with the atmosphere among them.

It was one thing for others not to know the patient's interests.

But this man also didn't know?

Fennis pursed his lips and pondered seriously, wondering if this could be the reason for Eva's condition.

But...

Everything felt very wrong, strange.

Thinking this, Fennis asked, "Mr. Cooper, there is one question, I want to know the real answer."

Despite feeling the tension, Fennis pressed on for the sake of the patient.

"What is your relationship with the woman inside?"

"Does that have anything to do with your diagnosis?"

Fennis nodded: "It might not usually, but... given her current mood, which you have seen."

Michael Cooper pursed his lips, clearly not wanting to answer the question.

This time, Fennis noticed something different. He had previously assumed they were a handsome couple living together, not looking like siblings, guessing they might be an awkward pair of lovers. But now he wasn't answering; so they weren't a couple?

If they weren't a couple, yet she stayed here all the time, could her condition be related to this situation?

With this in mind, Fennis decided to use this issue as a breakthrough point and ask about it.

"I'll go in and try," he said.

Without waiting for Michael Cooper's response, Fennis quickly re-entered the house.

Watching this unfold, Michael Cooper's expression darkened. He didn't wait for his response before entering again, did he? Did this man guess that he and Eva were not a couple at all? Fennis re-entered the room to find Eva still maintaining her original posture, unchanged.

Considering the hints he had picked up outside, he walked over and sat down in the chair in front of her, then silently observed her.

After about three minutes, Fennis couldn't help but ask, "Ms. Hansen, aren't you tired sitting like that?"

Her posture was odd, although she was leaning on the sofa, maintaining such a position for an extended period should be extremely uncomfortable.

As expected, his question did not spark her interest; Eva merely glanced at him faintly without speaking.

"I have a topic you might be interested in; do you want to hear it?"

However, this statement did not catch her attention either, so Fennis directly asked, "Do you want to leave here?"

He asked this question with serious observation, not wanting to miss any expression on her face.

Indeed, after he brought up this question, a slight ripple appeared on Eva's face, and then she looked at him seriously. This expression made Fennis feel that he had finally guessed correctly.

This was probably the crux of her illness.

Fennis pushed up his glasses, finally feeling more at ease.

"Ms. Hansen, if you want to leave here, maybe I can help you."

Finally, Eva seriously looked towards him.

"Help me? How can you help me?" she said. These were her first words since he had entered the room.

Her voice was soft and gentle, as if speaking left her breathless, a sign that her condition was affecting her physical health.

Each time Fennis saw a patient like this, he always felt pained and helpless, "How would you like me to help you?"

He should build trust with his patient quickly.

Eva quietly looked at him, how could he help her?

She showed a look of confusion in her eyes, "I don't know."

"Don't know?" Fennis seemed to have found another breakthrough, "Why is that? Don't you have any thoughts?"

"I do," Eva nodded emphatically.

"And what are those thoughts?"

When asked this, Eva, who had been willing to speak a few words, fell silent again.

Fennis did not urge her, waiting patiently.

After a long time seeing that she wouldn't speak, he added, "Maybe you can try telling me, and if it's not feasible, we can think of other methods?"

Eva shook her head.

"No need, you can't help me. Please go."

When it came to her innermost thoughts, Eva began resisting communication again. Previously she had just sat unmoving, but now she even refused to interact and directly got up and lay down on the bed. Seeing her like this, Fennis could only step out.

The three people outside were still standing guard, coming up to him as before when they saw him exit.

"How is it?"

Fennis shook his head.

"She has a heavy mental burden and doesn't wish to disclose it."

Saying this, Fennis looked at Michael Cooper.

"However, there's something I want to say. Mr. Cooper, I see that although Ms. Hansen refuses to communicate with me, her thoughts weren't disordered during our interaction. Perhaps, you need to have a good talk with each other." Having said that, Fennis took out his business card and handed it to Jane.

"Ms. Hansen probably won't want to see me again today. If you still wish to have me come over, I can return tomorrow at this time. However, every patient's situation is unique, and I can only try my best, but I can't guarantee results." While saying these words, Fennis kept his gaze fixed on Michael Cooper.

 

 

Chapter 486 Other Plans in Mind

Fennis's gaze made Michael Cooper uncomfortable, as if implying Eva had confided in Fennis. "Why do you keep looking at me?"

Fennis hadn't expected him to ask directly. He didn't intend to speak up, but since he asked, Fennis didn't want to miss the opportunity and spoke straightforwardly, "Mr. Cooper, would you like to have a psychological consultation like Ms. Hansen?"

From his years of experience, although Ms. Hansen had psychological issues, it seemed now that Michael Cooper's problem might be even greater.

David: "......"

"1

Jane: ""

Neither of them had expected Fennis would suddenly make such a suggestion.

Both looked at Michael Cooper, curious about his reaction. As expected, Michael Cooper's face darkened.

Fennis, apparently uninterested in how his words affected Cooper, continued naturally, "My advice is sincere, Mr. Cooper, and you should seriously consider it. If needed, just call me directly; today's consultation ends here, I'll be leaving." "Mr. Fennis, let me see you out."

David stepped forward to escort Fennis away, while Michael Cooper, probably still angry or perhaps considering whether he should share some information with the psychologist, stood by.

After Fennis left, Jane stood there staring at Michael Cooper for a good while before timidly asking, "Mr. Cooper, shall I go in then?"

She was referring to Eva's room.

Michael Cooper glanced at her but did not respond. Instead, he walked past her into the room, and Jane hurriedly followed.

Seeing Eva back in bed, eyes shut and curled up listlessly, Michael Cooper felt both anger and distress.

Angry that she behaved like this by his side and distressed that she was neglecting her health by not eating or drinking.

But many signs showed that it wasn't intentional-her body was rejecting food, and she vomited after eating. She was so weak.

Michael Cooper watched her quietly for some time before leaving.

Upon exiting, he encountered David returning from seeing off Fennis.

"David."

Michael Cooper said with an icy stare: " Find out where Ruby and Dylan are."

Hearing the names Ruby and Dylan, David's expression changed slightly.

"What is this about, Mr. Cooper?"

"She's lost the will to live since losing her memory. Her subconscious created psychological issues leading to anorexia. In that case, I could only help her to reignite her will to live."

The only ones that could reignite her will to live, other than Adrian Blackwood, were those two children.

David: "......"

He thought this situation might help Michael Cooper think clearly, allowing Eva to leave and achieve a great realization-that forcing things doesn't bring happiness and certain things must be let go and moved on from. But he had not anticipated that Michael Cooper would get even more deeply involved, now even contemplating involving the two children.

David stood still without moving.

"Mr. Cooper, Ruby and Dylan are young and can't handle shocks. Besides, they don't understand anything."

David paused for a moment before continuing, "Mr. Cooper, although they aren't your children, you have watched them grow up. Can you really...?"

Michael Cooper cut him off.

"I just want her to live."

Everything else could be sacrificed.

David's brows finally furrowed deeply.

"But if something happens to the children, it would make Ms. Hansen suffer more than death!"

"Why would anything happen?" Michael Cooper's eyes narrowed. "Now that Eva is by my side, I want their mother and children to reunite. Is there a problem?" "If Mr. Cooper really wants them to reunite, then he should let Ms. Hansen leave."

Hearing this, Michael Cooper chuckled lightly.

From his laughter, David sensed an unsettling emotion. Fearing the consequences that may follow, he hurriedly said, "I will take care of this."

Seeing him agree, Michael Cooper couldn't be bothered to waste more words.

"Make it quick. In three days at the latest, I want the children to be with her. If anything happens to her, you needn't bother coming back."

The hands at David's sides clenched into fists, his heart filled with bitterness.

Before, he had thought that Mr. Cooper might feel compassion for Ms. Hansen's health and come to realize that letting her go was the right thing to do.

But now, it seemed he had underestimated the extent of his obsession.

Back in the country.

It was nighttime, and the Blackwood family home was brightly lit.

Margaret had just coaxed Ruby and Dylan to sleep, and as soon as she left the children's room, her expression turned into one of worry. This was the first time in her many years married to Kim Blackwood that she was troubled by something. She usually had little to worry about. To maintain her appearance and youthful state, Margaret did not rely on medical beauty treatments but rather on getting early sleep, maintaining a calm mindset, and avoiding unnecessary stress, which kept her emotions very stable.

But this time, things were different...

Walking downstairs, Margaret immediately saw Kim Blackwood sitting in the living room smoking. Hearing her footsteps, Kim Blackwood looked up, hurriedly put out his cigarette in the ashtray, and stood up to open the window for ventilation.

His actions made Margaret pause momentarily, and her previously unsettled heart felt somewhat calmer.

Kim Blackwood had been a heavy smoker in his youth but quit because Margaret disliked the smell of smoke. Since then, for decades, he never smoked in front of her.

However, recent events had troubled him so much that he couldn't help but start smoking again.

Of course, he still dared not smoke in front of Margaret. He thought she would be putting the grandchildren to bed, so he took the opportunity to have a quick smoke downstairs. He didn't expect her to come down at this time. This worried Kim Blackwood greatly; he feared her disapproval.

So, before Margaret could approach, Kim Blackwood started explaining in a flustered manner.

Kim Blackwood had been a heavy smoker in his youth but quit because Margaret disliked the smell of smoke. Since then, for decades, he never smoked in front of her.

However, recent events had troubled him so much that he couldn't help but start smoking again.

Of course, he still dared not smoke in front of Margaret. He thought she would be putting the grandchildren to bed, so he took the opportunity to have a quick smoke downstairs. He didn't expect her to come down at this time. This worried Kim Blackwood greatly; he feared her disapproval.

So, before Margaret could approach, Kim Blackwood started explaining in a flustered manner.

"I thought you'd gone to sleep with Ruby and Dylan, so I just..." The middle-aged man, who had weathered countless storms in the business world, complete with open conflicts and underhanded tactics, found himself feeling as helpless as a child when facing a mistake made in front of his wife.

After he spoke, Kim Blackwood even felt like his explanation sounded like an excuse.

He had promised his wife he wouldn't smoke anymore, yet now it seemed he was admitting that he hadn't actually quit; instead, he was just sneaking cigarettes while she slept.

As he opened his mouth to offer another explanation, Margaret simply said, "It's okay. With what's happened, I'm also feeling restless."

After speaking, Margaret even reached out her hand towards him.

"Give me one cigarette too."

Kim Blackwood: "......"

"Forget it."

Before he could refuse, Margaret seemed to think better of it and added, "I shouldn't smoke. I'll have to go check on Ruby and Dylan later."

 

 

Chapter 487 Something Feels Off

Seeing that she had stopped asking him for cigarettes and no longer made a fuss about his smoking, Kim Blackwood heaved a sigh of relief, but then his brows furrowed once again.

"Why aren't you asleep at this hour?"

Usually, she would go to bed right after putting the kids to sleep, but that evening she had uncharacteristically come downstairs.

And just by chance, she caught the only time he was smoking.

Instead of answering him, Margaret asked, "Why aren't you sleeping? Why are you here smoking?"

After her question, there was a moment of silence between them.

After a while, Kim Blackwood finally said, "I feel like something's not quite right."

Hearing this, Margaret involuntarily glanced at him, "Are we thinking about the same thing?"

After saying this, they looked at each other and probably understood what the other was thinking.

With the situation as it was, how could they not sense that something was off?

"Even though Jacob has said that they are fine and told us not to worry, but..."

Margaret paused slightly before continuing, "I always felt that his attitude and tone were strange when he told us."

Kim Blackwood shared her thoughts and nodded in agreement.

"Right, and how long have Adrian and Eva not seen their children now? Most importantly, we can't get in touch with either of them."

Children might contact their parents less as they grow older, but would they really not answer calls when leaving?

"Eva's phone has been turned off the entire time, and for our son, Jacob is always the one answering. It hasn't changed."

It wouldn't matter if nothing changed, but Jacob emphatically assured her that Adrian and Eva were fine, telling her not to worry, and that they temporarily couldn't take care of the children and needed their help. Taking care of the children wasn't the issue, but what kind of parents would not worry about their child?

Even if they were truly busy and couldn't return, making a call or having a video chat should still be possible, shouldn't it?

When she was younger, if she ever had to go abroad for something, she would make video calls to see her darling son whenever she got the chance.

After a long silence, Kim Blackwood slammed down his hand, "Perhaps we should just call the police."

Hearing this, Margaret furrowed her brows.

"The situation isn't clear, what if we accidentally harm our son and Eva by calling the police rashly?"

Kim Blackwood pursed his lips, feeling that Margaret had a point.

"Then let's make a call and bring that Jacob over for questioning; I bet he won't dare to lie."

Margaret couldn't help but glance at him.

Her husband, although usually quite good to her, was essentially a successful businessman who could be very assertive and cunning in certain aspects. In some ways, he was probably gentle only with his own family.

Thinking this, she blinked her eyes and couldn't help but urge, "Asking questions is fine, but don't scare him."

Kim Blackwood nodded.

"Don't worry, he works under our son; how could he be so faint-hearted?"

"Even so, don't frighten him too much; after all, we still need him to get information."

Seeing that Margaret pleaded for Jacob several times, the indulgent Kim Blackwood could only agree.

"I understand, don't worry."

After speaking, Kim Blackwood stood up.

"You're going now?" Margaret was surprised. "It's so late, why not rest first? We can talk about it tomorrow."

Kim Blackwood replied, "The later, the better, to catch him off guard."

"Alright then, come back early after you're done."

"Honey, go upstairs and rest; don't wait for me."

After giving Margaret a few instructions, Kim Blackwood quickly left with his people. She watched his retreating figure and sighed softly in her heart. She hoped that Adrian and Eva would be safe and wouldn't cause her any more worry.

Margaret then went back upstairs, intending to rest, but she found herself not the least bit sleepy.

After thinking it over, she turned into the room where her two grandsons were sleeping, planning to stay by their side until Kim Blackwood returned.

Although Kim Blackwood told her not to wait, she knew very well that she wanted to hear news about her son and Eva as soon as possible, naturally making sleep impossible.

So there Margaret sat, clutching a heart full of tension as she waited.

Jacob had just settled everything when they received Adrian Blackwood, who was still unconscious. He had been inquiring about Eva's whereabouts, and his men immediately advised him, "Michael Cooper is fond of Ms. Hansen, so she should be safe with him. Right now, Mr. Blackwood is unconscious, Jacob, we should head back sooner to avoid any mishap."

"What nonsense," Jacob retorted, "Ms. Hansen went there to save Mr. Blackwood. Leaving now after just getting him would be ungrateful."

"Jacob, you can't say that," his man argued. "Michael Cooper likes Ms. Hansen, making him and Mr. Blackwood rivals in love. Ms. Hansen knew this, which is probably why she agreed to come, right? Look, he showed no mercy to Mr. Cooper- Mr. Blackwood is still unconscious. Who knows how long he's been like this under Michael Cooper's watch? If we don't hurry back, and something happens to Mr. Blackwood, wouldn't Ms. Hansen's efforts be in vain?" Jacob was eventually persuaded but felt conflicted.

The thought of leaving without Eva filled him with guilt. Plus, it was odd that she had cut off contact since boarding the plane; there hadn't been a single message. Later, he even heard news that she was at a hospital. Jacob had intended to find an opportunity to meet with Eva at the hospital, but Michael Cooper's men were watching too closely, preventing any chance for him to do so. He felt extremely passive in the situation. "Jacob, among us, only you can make the decision. Please think quickly and decide; we can't delay any longer."

After some thought, Jacob internally apologized to Eva and resolutely took Adrian Blackwood back to their country.

He had barely settled down before receiving a call from the Blackwoods. He lied, claiming everything was fine with both of them, then hurriedly hung up, worried he might slip up if he said too much.

After hanging up, he had no time to be unsettled, as he needed to take care of Adrian Blackwood. He busied himself until he finally had a moment to relax.

But once he did relax, Jacob truly began to feel restless.

He couldn't shake the feeling that his attempt to appease Mr. Blackwood's parents with half-truths was far too transparent; they weren't naive people who could be easily misled.

With these thoughts troubling him, Jacob sat up, considering whether to make another call to explain further when the doorbell suddenly rang.

 

Chapter 488 Eva Nowhere to be Seen

The doorbell rang, and Jacob instinctively stood up and walked towards the front door.

Halfway there, it suddenly occurred to him that it was way past mid-night and he usually lived alone who would come to his house at this hour? Realizing this, Jacob's hair stood on end in an instant.

He didn't continue towards the door but instead detoured to the study to check the surveillance monitor.

Initially tense, Jacob choked up upon seeing who appeared on the monitor-it was none other than Adrian Blackwood's father standing at his doorstep. But this was even more frightening.

What could Kim Blackwood possibly want by coming to his house in the middle of the night?

And why come in person without calling first?

Moreover, Kim brought two men with him who didn't look easily fooled.

Sure enough, he then felt that he hadn't been in the right frame of mind when he answered that phone call, and that he had been seen to be too perfunctory. Now, they had come knocking on his door.

Apparently growing impatient, Kim Blackwood pressed the doorbell several times in quick succession, as if he would keep ringing unless the door was opened. It was already late into the night, and the continuous ringing of the doorbell was not ideal.

Jacob sat in place, hesitating for a while. After crafting a reason in his mind that seemed perfect, he stood up and walked toward the door.

Upon opening the door, he pretended not to have seen Kim Blackwood from the study and feigned surprise at the sight of him.

"Uncle Kim, what brings you here so late at night?" Despite saying this, Jacob yawned, acting as if he had just woken up.

Unexpectedly, Kim Blackwood looked at him sternly, giving Jacob no chance to react before directly demanding, "Bring out the person."

At his command, the two stout men behind him immediately stepped forward, each grabbing one of Jacob's arms and forcefully lifting him off his feet. Jacob, who had intended to pretend to be sleepy, was startled into full alertness and quickly said, "Uncle Kim, what's happening? Is there a problem?" "Don't play dumb. Tell me, what exactly is going on?"

"It's not like that, Uncle Kim. You can't just ask me out of the blue; how am I supposed to know what you're referring to?"

Unfortunately, Kim Blackwood had come to find out the full story and didn't wish to waste time sparring words with Jacob.

Seeing that Jacob still appeared unwilling to speak, he waved his hand and ordered, "You won't talk? Fine, take him away. He'll explain everything once we get back."

The two strong men only obeyed Kim Blackwood's orders. With his command given, they immediately began to haul Jacob away, prepared to leave.

As Jacob watched himself getting closer to the elevator and realized that Kim Blackwood was seriously intent on his purpose, he quickly blurted out, "I'll talk, Uncle Kim-I'll tell everything!"

Hearing this, Kim Blackwood paused in his steps and narrowed his eyes at him.

"Ready to talk now? You're not trying to trick me, are you?"

"No, no, Uncle Kim, I swear I'm not trying to deceive you. But can you have them let go of me first?"

Kim Blackwood glanced at their surroundings, realizing that even if they released Jacob, he wouldn't be able to get far. He gestured broadly, "Let him go."

The two strong men did as commanded and released Jacob..

Jacob quickly rubbed his sore arms; the grip from the two men had been firm and unforgiving. He couldn't afford to be taken away. Having only three hours to rest upon returning, he was due to visit Adrian Blackwood soon. Although someone was watching over Adrian, he didn't dare to take it lightly and had come back only to take a shower and rest for a couple of hours.

But what would happen to Adrian Blackwood if he were taken away by Kim Blackwood?

With no alternative, Jacob decided to disclose everything.

Mr. Blackwood, it's not that I don't want to keep your parents from worrying; it's just that they are too astute to fool.

After mentally voicing this, Jacob promptly began recounting all the recent events to Kim Blackwood.

At the end of the story, Kim Blackwood's face was extremely grim, dark as the bottom of a pot, and he pointed at Jacob in anger, "Such a serious incident has occurred, and you still thought to conceal it?" Jacob could only offer an apologetic smile.

"Well, I didn't want to worry you and Aunt Margaret. Besides, I had planned to wait until Mr. Blackwood woke up to let him manage the situation. Mr. Blackwood certainly wouldn't want you to worry, so that's why I..." "Where is he now?"

"Uncle Kim, I'll take you there. Please don't be angry anymore; it's bad for your health."

However sincere his acknowledgement of error, at this moment, Adrian Blackwood was too upset to want to speak with him. He simply couldn't comprehend how such a significant matter could be kept from him-what strange logic was this? Was he supposed to wait until a real disaster struck before being informed?

And then, with everything set in stone, he wouldn't have to worry or be troubled?

The more he thought about it, the angrier Kim Blackwood became, and he couldn't help but scold Jacob again.

Jacob was mortified, knowing he deserved the reproach yet feeling the urge to retort.

"Then, Uncle Kim, I truly didn't mean to hide it from you. Let me give you an example if you knew about this, would you tell Aunt Margaret?"

Predictably, this question left Kim Blackwood speechless.

Seeing him not answer, Jacob wore a look that said he had anticipated this response. "See? Uncle Kim, even you wouldn't want to tell Aunt Margaret. And why is that? Because you care about her, you're worried about making her anxious, so you dare not tell her. It's the same reason I didn't tell you and Aunt Margaret. Mr. Blackwood cares about you. If I had spoken up, he would surely blame me when he woke up."

Kim Blackwood scoffed.

"So, all this talking is it to convince me not to blame you?"

"You're saying all this to convince me not to blame you, right?"

"No, no, I wouldn't dare think that way. I just wanted to clarify things."

"Cut the talk and tell the driver to speed up."

"Oh, okay."

Jacob immediately instructed the driver to increase speed.

About twenty minutes later, the car stopped at the entrance of the hospital.

Upon reaching the hospital, Kim Blackwood's expression immediately turned somber again. Turning his head, he asked, "Is there someone watching over him at the hospital?"

Jacob hesitated for a moment before nodding.

"Of course, there is someone with him. And don't worry, Uncle Kim, I wasn't planning on going home to rest for the night. I was just going back to take a shower and planned to return here in two or three hours." Hearing this, Kim Blackwood felt somewhat reassured.

On the way to the ward, he asked a few more questions about Adrian Blackwood's safety and was relieved to hear that Adrian was currently unconscious but not in life-threatening danger.

Upon reaching the ward, what he saw was Adrian Blackwood lying on the hospital bed, looking much thinner than before, lying there silently.

The sight almost brought tears to the father's eyes.

However, because there were many people around, Kim Blackwood managed to restrain himself. He then checked the surroundings and noticed that only Adrian Blackwood was there; Eva was nowhere to be seen.

 

Chapter 489 What on Earth was Going on?

"Where is Eva?" Kim Blackwood asked cautiously.

At the mention of Eva, a guilty expression came over Jacob's face, "Ms. Hansen, she... hasn't come back."

Kim Blackwood: "?"

He fixed his gaze on Jacob: "What do you mean she hasn't come back?"

Kim Blackwood's gaze was piercing and oppressive; when he stared at him, Jacob felt as if he were being targeted by thunder.

"It means... Ms. Hansen is still abroad."

With things having reached this point, Jacob had no choice but to explain everything. Kim Blackwood was already feeling like he was about to have a heart attack after hearing about Adrian Blackwood's situation, and now he found out Eva was also deeply involved.

He had thought that although there was an incident, as long as Adrian and Eva were together, whatever injuries they had could be treated in the hospital, and they would recover eventually.

But now, only Adrian Blackwood had returned, and Eva hadn't?

What on earth was going on?

Kim Blackwood pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling a throbbing pain.

"Uncle Kim, please don't get angry again. After all, what has happened has happened, and being angry is of no use. Let's think of a solution," Jacob said.

At that, Kim Blackwood glared at him.

"Do you have a solution?"

Jacob paused for a second before shaking his head.

"I'm still thinking."

Kim Blackwood immediately sneered.

"So you haven't thought of anything and yet dared to keep it hidden until now."

Jacob: "..."

Better just take the scolding and not argue back.

"I'm sorry. I'm wrong. So what shall we do now, Uncle Kim?"

Kim Blackwood looked at the comatose Adrian Blackwood and pursed his lips discontentedly, "How did he get such serious injuries? Logically speaking, if both sides had brought people, he shouldn't be hurt like this." Jacob shook his head, "I'm not too clear about that either. I wasn't at the scene at the time, but I guess Mr. Blackwood being injured like this probably means he was ambushed." On hearing this, Kim Blackwood fell silent.

He knew his son's character very well; although Adrian was remarkable, compared to himself as the father, his son was still too straightforward.

And this time, Adrian's opponent was once his friend; it wasn't impossible to be set up, otherwise, he wouldn't have been injured so badly.

Michael Cooper...

Kim Blackwood, had met Michael Cooper before when Kim was a teenager and had come over with Eva.

Back then, that boy grew up quickly, just like his son, tall and straight like a bamboo. When he bowed his head to talk to the young girl, there was a different emotion in his eyes.

Kim Blackwood, having been a youngster himself, understood that look all too well. He was secretly alarmed, never expecting such intense emotions from a youth.

At that time, he also liked the young girl Eva very much. She and his own son Adrian Blackwood were childhood sweethearts, so Kim Blackwood always felt that as long as Adrian didn't make any mistakes, Eva was sure to be his daughter-in- law.

But after seeing the young Michael Cooper, he felt it wasn't so certain. Most girls can hardly withstand passionate, crazy pursuits, and his son, with a more composed personality, would probably lose to others in wooing a girl.

It wasn't until later that he heard about the troubles in Michael Cooper's family, even felt sympathy for the boy for a while, and later heard he stayed abroad, thinking with such family turmoil, he probably couldn't focus on other matters. Years passed by, and Michael never appeared again around Eva and Adrian, so Kim Blackwood almost forgot about this person.

Although they played well together in their youth, as people grow up, they go their separate ways and have their own affairs to attend to, naturally not as carefree as in their youth.

He thought some things would fade away with age, but unexpectedly... now such an incident had occurred.

Thinking about this, Kim Blackwood let out a long sigh.

He really didn't expect this matter to have such a serious follow-up.

Reflecting on this, he pursed his lips and asked, "Where was the last place you saw Eva?"

Jacob recounted the day's events of going to the airport and staking out, and after confirming the approximate location, Kim Blackwood made up his mind.

Seeing his expression, Jacob couldn't help but say, "Right, Uncle Kim, there's something I need to tell you. When we were making the deal with him, Ms. Hansen had said not to call the police."

Kim Blackwood: "..."

"So Mr. Blackwood didn't report to the police because of that, hoping to resolve it privately. Just never expected..."

"Foolish," Kim Blackwood gritted his teeth.

"I can understand, though. That Michael Cooper might not be good for Mr. Blackwood, but he has been very good to Ms. Hansen, having provided a lot of help in the past. So, Ms. Hansen inevitably harbors some compassion towards him." Unfortunately, Kim Blackwood didn't see it that way. Being a businessman, apart from focusing on interests, what mattered to him were his family members.

Now someone had harmed his family, and that was something he could not tolerate.

So when Jacob spoke, he did not respond.

Jacob obviously felt the tension and carefully glanced at him, softly asking, "Uncle Kim, maybe we still shouldn't call the police?"

Kim Blackwood looked at him disapprovingly. "If you're always so hesitant, how can you get anything done?"

Jacob found himself at a loss for words, unable to offer even the slightest rebuttal. He wanted to say something, but considering Eva's safety, he ultimately couldn't utter a single word.

Indeed, just as Uncle Kim had said, their constant hesitation and looking back had led to Ms. Hansen still not being rescued. If they had been ruthless from the start, perhaps they wouldn't be facing this predicament now. "But Uncle Kim, what if Mr. Blackwood wakes up and..." Jacob tried to protest.

"Do you want to save her, or do you want to stand here tangled in indecision?" Uncle Kim interrupted.

Jacob was rendered speechless once more, nodding hurriedly in agreement.

"Save her!" he declared after closing his eyes and steeling his heart. "Then shall we leave this matter in Uncle Kim's hands?"

Mr. Blackwood, I know you didn't want to call the police for Ms. Hansen's sake, but she hasn't returned, and you're injured like this. Even if there were past favors, an injury that nearly took your life should settle that debt, right? Before leaving, Kim Blackwood couldn't help but take one more look at his son lying unconscious. He then said to Jacob, "I'm leaving now; stay here and watch over him, take care of him." Jacob nodded.

"Don't worry, Uncle Kim. I will definitely take good care of Mr. Blackwood."

 

Chapter 490 Picking Up the Child

On his way home, Kim Blackwood received a call from Margaret.

"How's it going? You've been out for quite some time now; did you find Jacob? Did you find out anything?" Upon hearing this, Kim Blackwood fell silent.

Suddenly, he remembered the conversation he had with Jacob in the car, when Jacob asked him if he would tell Margaret after learning about the situation. At that moment, he felt it was a difficult choice to make.

Now, when faced with the reality of making that choice, Kim Blackwood realized he truly didn't want to inform Margaret. The issue was so serious that he could imagine her worrying look as soon as he told her. Just the thought made him feel heartache.

He guessed that Adrian Blackwood and Jacob didn't want to tell him for probably the same reason.

Sighing deeply in his mind, Kim Blackwood decided to empathize and resolved to tell Margaret about the incident but didn't disclose everything. He simply said, "There has been a bit of an accident, and I need to handle it. Over the next few days... make sure to rest well."

However, Margaret's vigilance was extremely high.

"What kind of minor accident requires your personal attention for several days? What happened?" Her tone became anxious towards the end of her questions.

"Listen, honey, don't panic. The situation is indeed a bit complicated, but I can handle it. Once it's sorted, I'll tell you, alright?"

Margaret responded with suspicion, "What exactly is the matter, and why are you unwilling to tell me now? Is it very serious?"

"It's because I need to go and deal with it now, and I don't have the time to explain everything to you."

Margaret was somewhat reassured by this.

If the matter was really urgent and he needed to deal with it without having the time to explain the details to her, she could understand that.

"Alright then, you go and take care of it, but you have to promise me that once you have the time, you will tell me exactly what's going on, so I can see if there's any way I can help."

"Of course, dear, thank you for being so understanding."

After hanging up the phone, Kim Blackwood let out a long sigh of relief, feeling he had managed to get through the most difficult part. He wondered if Jacob had felt the same when he hung up the call.

Although the night was deep, given the Blackwood family's connections, finding a few people to help was easy. Sitting in his car, Kim Blackwood made several calls one after another.

After hanging up the phone, Margaret couldn't help but let out a long sigh thinking about what Kim Blackwood had said on the call.

She knew her husband well; there were only two reasons he wouldn't tell her everything: either it was as he said, and the explanation was too lengthy for him to go into detail at that moment, or the situation was so serious that he feared it would worry her or scare her, so he chose to stay silent.

Margaret felt that this time, it might be both reasons.

Another reason she didn't push for more answers was probably because she had their two grandchildren with her. Currently, the children's parents were not around, and Kim Blackwood was busy dealing with their issues, meaning that she was the sole caregiver for her grandchildren.

She couldn't just leave her grandchildren, and with them in tow, she wouldn't really be able to help. So, after hearing what Kim Blackwood had said over the phone, Margaret quickly came to terms with it herself.

Since she couldn't be of any help, it was better not to know for the time being. Knowing would only make her worry needlessly; it was better to focus on taking good care of her two little grandchildren until they returned. With this thought, Margaret got up and walked toward the children's room.

Seeing the two little ones hugging their blankets and deeply asleep, even having swapped places, made Margaret's troubled day feel much warmer.

So adorable, these two little ones.

How could Eva have such remarkable children? To give birth to twins who both turned out so well, and she raised them alone for five years. Despite the hardship, she managed to bring up the children so well. Margaret glanced at them again, and when she saw Dylan's brows and eyes, it was as if she was seeing a young Adrian Blackwood all over again.

She remembered how her mother loved holding little Adrian Blackwood, always saying how cute he was. She wondered whether her mother, seeing Dylan, who looked so much like Adrian, would also adore him. At that moment, Margaret realized it had been a long time since she'd seen her own mother.

Her parents did not live with them nor even in the same city. After retiring, they complained about the city pollution and bought a single-story house with a garden and yard in the countryside to enjoy their retirement. They filled their garden with various plants and cornered off a section for some vegetables and fruits. They lived a simple, peaceful life, getting up at sunrise and going to bed at sunset.

Margaret had once visited her parents and seeing them happy and content, decided not to disturb them further, especially after they inquired about Adrian Blackwood's marital status and sighed heavily upon learning of his divorce. Since then, Margaret seldom visited.

Now, suddenly, she wanted to take the two little ones and visit them in the countryside. After all, their parents wouldn't be back for a while.

As for the two little ones, she planned to ask their school for a week's leave.

Having made up her mind, Margaret got up with determination to start packing clothes.

The next day, as the two little ones had just woken up and were still sitting dazedly on their beds, Margaret approached to dress them. While buttoning their clothes, she spoke, "Ruby, Dylan, grandma got you some time off school; we're going to go on a trip."

Ruby Hansen, having just woken up with bleary eyes, instantly perked up upon hearing they were going to play.

"Grandma, does that mean we don't have to go to school today?"

Every child dislikes school to some extent, and Ruby was no exception. However, being well-behaved by nature, and with Eva's guidance, she usually didn't show it. But now, hearing from her grandmother that they didn't have to attend school and could go out to play instead, she was overjoyed and reached for Dylan's hand.

"Dylan, we don't have to go to school today."

Dylan remained composed, showing neither excitement nor displeasure, but simply nodded at Ruby before turning to Margaret.

"Grandma, why are we skipping school? Where are we going?"

What he really wanted to ask was why mommy had not come back for so long, and where had she gone?

But before leaving, mommy had instructed them to be good, to listen to grandma, and for him to take care of himself and his sister.

"Yes, grandma is going to take you to a special place; do you want to go?"

Ruby didn't even know what place it was but immediately nodded enthusiastically, "Yes!"