Never Too Far Novel

Chapter 1281-1290

Chapter 1281-1290

At that moment, the door of the elevator opened to reveal a group of hotel employees waiting outside after their lunch break. They had witnessed how intimate their abstinent boss was with a woman in public.

Queenie was so embarrassed that she hurriedly covered her face and allowed the man to lead her out. She felt that people wouldn’t recognize her if she covered her face.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Mason,” the group of staff greeted.

“Carry on with your work!” Nigel showed no sign of embarrassment as opposed to Queenie. He waved his hand coolly in return to his employees while leading her to the door.

Soon, whispers of discussion sounded behind them.

She raised her head and warned, “Mr. Mason, don’t kiss me in front of the public anymore, alright? Even if you want to, do it when there’s no one around!”

Narrowing his eyes, he questioned, “Does that mean I can kiss you as much as I want when there is no one around?”

Queenie was dumbfounded.

“Fine! That is one way to understand it. Anyway, I no longer want to be seen kissing you in public.”

She still cared about her reputation.

“Okay.” Nigel went along with her request.

Queenie thereafter allowed him to drive her car as they drove to a nearby shopping mall.

Going to the mall was probably the happiest activity for couples. They could buy whatever they wanted while being accompanied by someone.

As soon as Queenie entered the mall, her footsteps became lighter. It was natural for women to enjoy shopping.

When they walked into a women’s clothing store, she looked around for work attire and found a suit she liked. Hence, she went to the fitting room to try them on. When she came out, her demeanor instantly changed from the daughter of a wealthy family to a smart and professional businesswoman.

Her body assets that were hidden beneath her usual attires were accentuated at this very moment. The midi skirt wrapped around her graceful figure and exposed her slim and flawless legs. She definitely had enviable body proportions.

Nigel, who was looking from the side, secretly gulped. He didn’t even know he had a kink for his girlfriend in uniform!

“Do I look good in these?”

“No. You don’t,” he denied. If she wore that to the office, wouldn’t it be a feast to the eyes of his male employees? Nope, he wasn’t going to allow that.

“I like it, though! Besides, this outfit fits me just fine. What are you not satisfied with?” Queenie had other thoughts. Moreover, she liked the material of the clothes.

“Too sexy. It’s not suitable for work. Change into another one,” Nigel commented without beating around the bush.

Hearing what he said, she could only change her outfit. However, he gradually noticed that she looked good in everything, so he stopped making remarks and went to a few more shops to look around. After

getting four sets of clothes, the two were quite exhausted, so they stopped by a cafe for a break.

Queenie was so worn out that she leaned in his arms and closed her eyes for a moment. Unexpectedly, a quick eye shut turned into a nap. Nigel immediately turned into a pillow for her to catch a comfortable nap. When she opened her eyes again, she realized that half an hour had passed!

“Why didn’t you wake me up?” Queenie rubbed her sleepy eyes and questioned.

“I couldn’t bear to wake you up when you slept so soundly.” In an attempt to tidy her messy hair, his hands sifted through her long locks. Feeling her silky hair, he couldn’t help resting his hand on her hair before playing with the strands.

After a nap, she felt more energetic, so the two shopped around for a little while again. She then insisted on buying him some clothes, which left Nigel with no choice but to comply and pick two sets of suits. They eventually shopped until 4.30PM, but he couldn’t send her home since he had to attend another meeting at night.

Queenie felt bad for occupying so much of his time because she had once seen his schedule and knew he was preoccupied with meetings all day.

“Drive safe and call me once you arrive home,” Nigel ordered.

Nodding, she replied, “Okay. I got it.”

After watching her car blend into the traffic, he turned around and returned to the company. Just then, his phone rang. It was a call from his mother, so he answered it. “Hi, Mom.”

“Nigel, free up your time tomorrow night. I want to take you to dinner.”

“What restaurant, Mom?”

“It’s a secret for now. Anyway, just free up your time tomorrow after 5.00PM, alright?” reminded Brenda.

“Okay! I’ll free up my time,” he answered.

“Has work been hectic?”

“It’s fine. I can handle it.”

“Come home for dinner when you’re free. It’s been two weeks since we last saw you,” Brenda complained.

Nigel was slightly taken aback by his mother’s statement. He recalled meeting Queenie the last time he went home for dinner. He thought he and Queenie had known each other for a long time, but he didn’t expect it to be only two weeks!

Was that how love at first sight felt?

Some people he met in life might not be acquainted with him for long, but it seemed like they were destined to be the most important person in his life. It was as if his abstinence after all these years was for her to appear in his life one day.

“That’s all. I’ll call you again tomorrow night.” Brenda hung up after the call.

The corners of Nigel’s lips curved upward. Tomorrow night, he would tell his parents something they would be delighted to hear.

In Silverstein Residence, Queenie, who was carrying a few bags of clothes, bumped into Bonnie, Maggie, and her good friend, Lisbeth, who were having afternoon tea.

Bonnie stared at her shopping bags and felt jealousy arousing in her heart. Did Queenie get her work attire ready already?

“Hello, Aunt Lisbeth.” After placing the clothes down, Queenie took a seat at the table beside the balcony.

“You’re getting more and more beautiful, Queenie! You’ve always been pretty since you were young!” Lisbeth praised.

“No, silly. She looks like any ordinary girl!” Brenda smiled. In her heart, she knew how beautiful her daughter was, but she didn’t dare to agree since Lisbeth wasn’t living a good life right now. She tried to avoid showing off her children in front of Lisbeth because the latter’s son had been arrested for gambling and wasn’t going to be released until a few years later.

“What about me, Aunt Lisbeth? Am I pretty?” Holding her teacup, Bonnie purposely tossed the question at her.

In response, Lisbeth smiled at her and replied, “Of course, you are. You and Queenie are equally beautiful!”

“Thanks, Aunt Lisbeth.” Bonnie smiled in satisfaction.

Maggie smiled upon hearing that. When Bonnie first found them, Lisbeth was with her. While she marveled at the return of her second daughter, Lisbeth firmly told her not to be rash and that she had to do a DNA test before making sure she was truly her daughter. Lisbeth even introduced her to a renowned DNA testing center.

Due to that, Maggie had worried that Lisbeth might not like her second daughter!

“Queenie, I see you bought a lot of clothes! These brands must not be cheap!” Bonnie deliberately exclaimed.

Hearing that, Maggie inquired, “Why did you suddenly buy so many clothes, Queenie?”

“These are all work attire, Mom. I’ll need them when I go to work,” Queenie explained.

“You’re so capable, Queenie. You’re qualified to work at Dad’s office, unlike me, who didn’t receive a proper education. I can’t help out in the slightest to this household and am only a hindrance to the family.” After saying that, Bonnie sighed with her head low.

Maggie immediately held her hand reassuringly, “Bonnie, don’t say that. You are as important as Queenie in our hearts. We’re happy that you managed to return to us safe and sound.”

Lisbeth was also secretly observing Maggie’s reaction. Seeing how bad Maggie felt for Bonnie, a smile appeared on the corner of her lips.

“I’m going back to my room now, Mom.” Queenie excused herself.

Once she went out, it was almost time for Lisbeth to leave as well, so Bonnie got up and volunteered, “Mom, let me send Aunt Lisbeth off.”

“Sure. Go ahead!”

“This child is filial and obedient,” Lisbeth praised Bonnie at the right time.

Smiling in return, Maggie agreed, “Yeah! Bonnie is a good girl.”

“It’s my fault for overthinking back then,” Lisbeth apologized.

“Don’t worry about it.” Maggie patted her shoulder in reassurance.

Bonnie came out holding Lisbeth’s hand as she escorted the latter to her car. Suddenly, Lisbeth squeezed her hand, and her gaze was no longer as kind as before as her expression turned serious. “Bonnie, don’t rush it. Queenie is just going to work. Their family’s assets will still be divided in half in the future.”

“How can I not be anxious? With Queenie around, I’ll always be inferior to her. Also, what if she gets to inherit more of the family inheritance because she’s better?” Bonnie whispered.

“It’s fine. You can occasionally say some stuff to evoke their guilt toward you, but remember, don’t cause any more trouble.”

“Don’t worry, Aunt Lisbeth. I’ll follow your plan.” Bonnie nodded.

While watching Lisbeth’s car drive away, a sudden thought emerged in Bonnie’s mind. If I get half of the Silverstein inheritance, I’d still need to give half of it to Lisbeth. That’s billions of cash. Why should I share it with a woman who has done nothing?

Then, some new thoughts seeped into her head. She and Lisbeth had only known each other for over one year, and they were merely completing a task together. In other words, there was no filial relationship between them.

Once Lisbeth was dead, no one in this world would be able to expose the secret of her identity.

A vicious glint flashed across Bonnie’s eyes as her lips curled into a smile. At last, she returned to the Silverstein Residence.

Queenie was instructing the servants to do her laundry when Bonnie came up the stairs, after which she could not help but ridicule, “Queenie, you’re such a spendthrift, unlike me, who has to watch my spending every time I head out.”

“Nigel gave me these clothes. You can find a boyfriend, too, if you’re jealous!” Queenie retorted.

“Are you still afraid that I’d steal Young Master Nigel from you, Queenie?”

“He’s different from Leslie. Plus, you don’t have the charm to do so,” Queenie answered calmly.

“From your words, I can tell that you don’t understand men. Men always prefer novelty. Do you think Nigel will still be attracted to you once he loses interest in you? With his wealth and appearance, he has countless women actively lunging at him! By then, you’d have no choice but to cry!” Bonnie decided to plant some evil thoughts in Queenie’s mind.

A trace of anxiety flickered through Queenie’s mind, but she soon stated firmly, “I believe he’s different from other men.”

Just as she was about to enter her room, a sarcastic voice sounded from behind her. “Oh, Queenie, don’t be full of yourself. Once a man gets the woman he wants, he won’t feel the same passion anymore. I’m sure Nigel won’t be an exception.”

“Are you done?” Queenie snapped while turning around.

“That’s right! I heard you received a newlywed home. Now, Dad and Mom are planning to buy me a house too. How big should I go?” With a smile, Bonnie smugly raised an eyebrow.

Naturally, Queenie could not say anything because her parents had long since prepared a 400-square- meters house in the city center as her newlywed home.

Back in her room, Bonnie’s words remained upsetting as they raised suspicions within her toward her marriage. Yet, after thinking about it, Aren’t the happiest people in the world right by my side now?

Ever since she was young, her parents had always been a loving couple and had accompanied each other until now. Therefore, it was one-sided of her to be pessimistic about marriage. Also, she should have more faith in Nigel.

Discarding those thoughts away, Queenie began to look through the files her father had assigned her. While she sat before her computer, she found these complicated sales reports difficult to comprehend, but to help her father, she had to cheer herself up and fight through these boring reports.

She perused the documents until late at night. When she was unable to keep going, she instantly plopped onto the bed and fell asleep.

The following morning, she went to her father’s company at 8.00AM. Meanwhile, Bonnie watched Queenie leave from the balcony on the third floor as her grip instinctively tightened out of jealousy. Although she was not the real Bonnie Silverstein, she had indeed replaced the real one and could not control her greed to want more.

The Silversteins were so rich that she had never seen so much wealth in her life, which fed her greed and made her want to have the entire Silverstein Family for herself.

Now, the only obstacle in her path was Queenie’s boyfriend, Nigel. The more contact she had with that man, the more worried she was that she might not be able to hide her secret and be exposed later on.

Also, if Queenie is to live a good life in the future, would she bully and step on me instead? During the year she came to the Silverstein Residence, she had grown increasingly jealous of Queenie. We’re both humans, but why is Queenie’s life so much better than mine?

She has everything, but what about me? I met a pair of gambling-addicted parents who didn’t even care about me and forced me to start earning money after graduating from junior high. To rid myself of this unfortunate family, I had no choice but to work at places with high pay and suffer grievances and criticism from other people.

When she reflected on her life, she felt both jealousy and hatred for Queenie’s pristine and happy life; she hated the heavens for their unfairness.

Therefore, even though Lisbeth had reminded her not to target Queenie, she still could not control the displeasure she felt when seeing Queenie’s unchallenging life, along with the elegant and noble temperament she was born with.

That afternoon, Bonnie had her mother accompany her to visit all the large residential showrooms. I must own a large flat for myself, and it must be in the city center as well.

At the Silversteins’ company, Queenie sat beside her father with a pen in her hand and a laptop beside her while attentively making notes. Meanwhile, Brandon was a patient mentor to his daughter. Thanks to her sharp mind, he only needed to provide her with a few key points before she grasped the concepts he was teaching.

As a result, Brandon took note of all that and secretly made a decision. In the future, he would leave the company to Queenie because that would be the only way he could ensure that the company would fall into good hands. After all, the family business was established by his grandfather and the elders of his generation, so he could never afford to lose it.

“Queenie, keep it up. The company and I will be counting on you in the future.” Brandon laid that out straightforwardly.

With pursed lips, Queenie nodded. “I will do my best to not disappoint you.”

“I’m worried that with Bonnie’s personality, she might compete with you to take over the company. I’d better talk to her and tell her that managing a company is not as easy as she thinks.” He sighed.

Regarding this matter, Queenie also abided by her father’s arrangement. If he wanted her to take over the company, she would wholeheartedly take on that responsibility. “If that’s your plan, you need to have a good talk with her,” she told her father.

“Sigh! That child had a poor life when she was young, and I can tell that she desperately wants our acknowledgment. Your mother and I treat you both equally, so why would we disregard her?” Brandon sighed. Of course, he knew his younger daughter had some flaws in her personality, which was why he and his wife had tried their best to help her overcome those shortcomings.

Ring! Ring! Noticing his buzzing phone, Brandon picked it up to answer the call. “Hello.”

“Dad, it’s me, Bonnie. Mom and I are looking at showrooms now! I found a house that I like, but it’s quite expensive.”

“That’s not a problem! As long as you like it.” He chuckled.

“It costs eighty million, though!” Bonnie added.

“Eighty million? How’s the location? Daddy will take a look with you soon,” Brandon suggested affectionately.

“Sure. Then, I’ll look at some more houses.” After saying that, Bonnie hung up.

Meanwhile, Queenie remained silent on the side. The house she chose back then cost fifty million and it was apparent that Bonnie was selecting her house in the utmost best locations. Still, she could not comment on the situation because it was her parents’ money. As their daughter, she could only support their decision.

“Queenie, if you ever wish to have a different house, I’m on your side as well.” Brandon comforted her.

“Dad, I don’t need to change houses. I’m happy with the one I have now,” she answered. The company was not doing well recently, so she did not want to spend any of her family’s money and add to her father’s pressure.

Later, the daughter-and-father duo got off work together. Just as they had arrived at the company’s exit, his phone suddenly rang. It was a call from one of his business partners asking him out to dinner for some work discussion.

Seeing that Queenie was with him, he asked her to tag along. “Queenie, come with me to meet with one of our clients. This is something you will have to do in the future.”

“Sure.” Queenie nodded.

At Manson Hotel, Nigel had just thrown aside the information for a meeting and was planning to take a rest on the couch when his phone rang. Picking the phone up, he took a look and immediately sprang to his feet. He had almost forgotten that he had a dinner appointment with his mother.

“Hello, Mom.” He quickly answered his phone.

“Have you finished your meeting? I’ll send you an address. Come over at 6.30PM sharp. Don’t be late!” Brenda ordered him.

“Alright. I know, Mom!” He supported his forehead. The day-long meeting and international video conference had made him so busy that he did not have time to rest. After taking a look at the clock, he retrieved his keys and left.

The restaurant he was heading to happened to be the same place where Brandon was, but they arrived one after another.

Queenie followed her father into the private room the client had booked in advance and began their meal after exchanging a few pleasantries. It was not long before a white and cool-looking sports car arrived at the restaurant’s entrance. Nigel descended the car and took a look at the private room’s number. Then, his long figure began heading inside the restaurant.

“Mr. Manson, please follow me,” a waiter greeted him enthusiastically.

When Nigel arrived at the private room that his mother was in, he was met with a room filled with women. Being the only man in the room, he was taken aback. Then, he naturally looked at his mother. What kind of dinner is this? How can Mom ask me to come to dinner with her besties?

Brenda immediately smiled and introduced him to everyone. “This is my son, Nigel.” After that, she beckoned him over. “Nigel, have a seat.”

Since he was already here, he thought he could not embarrass his mother in front of her friends, so he found an empty seat and sat down. The seat beside him was occupied by a beautiful young woman, who was his blind date for tonight.

As he was surrounded by women at this point, Nigel did not notice that the person sitting beside him was a young lady. However, the young lady was staring at him with shy and cheerful eyes. What’s ‘love at first sight’ you ask? This. This is it. I’ve fallen in love with Nigel Manson.

“Nice to meet you, Young Master Nigel. I’m Ingrid Sawyer.” The young woman took the initiative to introduce herself.

Meanwhile, Nigel was famished and had already started eating. He glanced at Ingrid and reciprocated, “Hello.” After that, he focused all his attention on eating.

Oh, Nigel. Brenda shot her son a glare as a warning to not mess things up. This is a blind date! I can’t let him scare the young woman away!

“Mom, I’m hungry.” Nigel turned to look at his mom. It was then that he realized his mom had set up another blind date for him.

“Here, let me introduce you two. This is Ingrid, and she’s Pheona’s niece. She comes from an excellent family, and she’s intelligent and beautiful. You two should get to know each other.” Once Brenda finished speaking, she blinked at her son, indicating that he should seize the chance.

Meanwhile, he turned to look at Ingrid while eating. “Hello, Miss Sawyer.”

“Nigel must be famished! With such a huge company, there must be a lot of work to do. It must be tiring!”

“Of course. Nigel is a very excellent child. Not only is he young, but he’s also very capable. Such young men are tough to find nowadays.”

At that, Brenda proudly looked at her son before gazing at Ingrid. She thought the two children looked so well together, so she began wishing that her son would be interested in Ingrid.

“Nigel, don’t just eat on your own! Pay some attention to Ingrid,” Brenda urged.

“Nigel, Ingrid is an excellent woman. A perfect match for you!”

“You’re right. This is what they call a perfect match!”

Hearing that, Nigel revealed a smile and explained, “Thank you for the compliments, but I’m sorry to tell you that I have a girlfriend.”

As he said that, Ingrid almost choked on her water and coughed lightly before looking at the man beside her in disbelief.

On the other hand, Brenda could not help but glare at her son. He had always used this excuse to get out of blind dates, so she naturally did not believe him. “Nigel, I like Ingrid a lot, so you’d better not use the same old excuse again. I don’t care. You have to get to know Ingrid no matter what,” Brenda authoritatively warned him.

In return, she saw her son explaining seriously, “Mom, I do have a girlfriend. Her name is Queenie Silverstein, and I am thinking of bringing her home to meet you someday!”

However, Brenda refused to believe him still. Her son had used so many excuses to refuse the blind dates she had arranged, so she would not believe him no matter what he said. Although he had told

her a name, she still disregarded it as a lie.

“Don’t try to fool me. Do you think I’m so easily fooled?” Brenda retorted without mercy.

Meanwhile, Ingrid let out a sigh of relief. It turns out Nigel is such a humorous person! It’s alright. I’ll take it slow and make him like me.

Maybe he’s just not used to dating someone on blind dates! The older ladies mentioned his past blind dates earlier, and his refusal to go on those dates demonstrates that he is neither a playboy nor a scumbag.

“Mrs. Manson, perhaps Nigel and I can become friends first! Don’t pressure him too much.” Ingrid smiled and suggested.

“Oh, Ingrid, you’re such a good child! Sure, you two can start as friends first.” Brenda nodded.

Meanwhile, Nigel secretly felt resigned. It did not matter to him whether Ingrid was beautiful or not because he already had someone in his heart. Moreover, he was a person who prioritized feelings over everything in a romantic relationship. After meeting so many young women, only Queenie could make his heart race wildly.

At that moment, he received a message on his phone. ‘Wassup?’ Queenie asked.

Surveying his current situation, he knew he could not tell her that his mom had arranged a blind date for him. Therefore, he made up a lie. ‘I’m still at the company. How about you?’

‘My dad and I are accompanying a client for dinner.’

‘Seems like Miss Silverstein is about to become President Silverstein.’

Rising to his feet, Nigel excused himself from the table. “Excuse me. I need to make a call.”

At that moment, Ingrid’s aunt eyed her niece to hint at her to follow him outside to have some alone time with him, at which Ingrid got the message and left the room as well.

Later, Nigel came to the railing near the corridor on the second floor to text Queenie while also taking a breather.

Near the railing on the third floor, Queenie was also out taking a breather as the men were smoking inside the private room, making it feel stuffy. She smiled when she saw the message and replied, ‘Aren’t you going to have dinner?’

After sending that message, she suddenly caught a glimpse of a man standing near the railing on the second floor and her eyes widened in surprise. Isn’t that Nigel?

It was then the man turned around and she immediately recognized him. Just as she was about to call out to him, a young woman suddenly appeared and stood beside him. Then, she began happily chatting with him.

At that sight, Queenie felt her heart sinking and stared disbelievingly at them. Why would the man, who just said he was at the company, suddenly appear in this restaurant? More importantly, an attractive woman was standing beside him. Judging from what she could see, they seemed to be happily conversing.

As Queenie watched them, the grip on her phone tightened. ‘I’ll be having dinner soon,’ Nigel replied at that moment.

Looking at the message he sent, she suddenly felt suffocated. Nothing could beat the despair one felt when finding out the person one loved had lied to them. How can this be? Why would he lie to me?

Soon enough, the situation led her to think about Bonnie’s words. Am I wrong to think that Nigel is different?

While she hid behind the pillar, she peered at the conversing couple on the second-floor corridor. Though she could not hear what they were talking about, she could see the adoration in the young woman’s eyes as she looked at Nigel.

She felt her heart break into pieces once again. After hiding for a while, Queenie glimpsed at the second-floor corridor but discovered that the two had disappeared. It seemed like they had returned to have dinner in their private room.

Clutching her chest, she felt her heart hurt so much that she could not breathe. A dispirited Queenie headed to the bathroom while her eyes innately turned red. She wanted to rush over and question him on his affectionate behavior with another woman while being in a relationship with him. Am I just one of the many girls you have?

When she returned to her private room, she did not feel like listening to her father’s conversation with the client anymore. Rather, she hung her head low, and her mind was filled with the scene of Nigel happily conversing with that young woman earlier.

“Queenie, what’s the matter? Are you not feeling well?” Brandon noticed something off with his daughter.

“It’s nothing, Dad. I just want to go home.” Queenie wanted to head out for a walk to clear her mind.

“Sure, go ahead! It has been a tiring day for you.” Although he was having a good time chatting with his client, he also understood his daughter’s condition, for she had just started getting involved in the family business.

When Queenie arrived on the second floor, it seemed like her legs had a mind of their own as they brought her to the private room where Nigel was. She wanted so badly to confirm the thoughts in her head, so she headed for the door of his private room.

At that moment, the door was pushed open, and out came a noble-looking woman. Then, Queenie dashed toward the door and took a quick peek inside. Her eyes happened to notice Nigel’s back and he was sitting right beside the woman who was talking with him earlier.

Meanwhile, the woman who exited the room closed the door while Queenie stood frozen in the corridor while a ball of rage burned inside her. Why? Why would he pretend to be an affectionate and devoted person before me, then converse so happily with another woman behind my back?

A waiter came over and politely inquired, “Miss, are you here for someone?”

Frantically retreating a step, Queenie stammered, “N-No. I came to the wrong side.”

After saying that, she turned around and scurried toward the elevator. She sprinted out of the restaurant before the stuffiness inside her chest subsided. Then, she aimlessly walked toward the brightly lit area. Tears began to uncontrollably stream down her cheeks as her mind was filled with sweet moments of her and Nigel.

Is all of this just an illusion?

Arriving at an unoccupied bench, she plopped onto it and closed her eyes while letting her tears drift down her face. She had never put so much effort into liking a man, and she would even imagine their future together before falling asleep at night. Yet, all of that was now crumbled into hopeless fragments.

Just like her heart, it was shattered into pieces.

Once again, Bonnie’s words rang in her head. “Men always prefer novelty. Once his interest in you has subsided, a man like Nigel will definitely get a new woman.”

To her dismay, she did not expect Bonnie’s words to be so on point. Moreover, she was so certain that he was different. The joke is on me.

Ring! Ring!

Fishing out her phone, she took a glance and noticed that it was Nigel calling. As she stared blankly at his name on the screen, she let it ring without any intention of picking it up. At last, she rose to her feet and hailed a cab home.

Back in the restaurant, Nigel thought it was blaring inside the room, so he deliberately came out with his phone to make a call. However, confusion dawned upon him as he realized that Queenie had missed his calls twice. Is her phone not with her because she’s swamped with her work? If so, I’ll call again later.

The dinner party was almost over, but since his mom was present, he was not allowed to leave early and had to wait till everyone finished their dinner before heading out together.

“Mom, I’ll drive you home,” Nigel offered.

“You don’t have to. I’ve asked Steven to send me home. How about you send Ingrid home? She needs a ride,” Brenda ordered specifically.

“Nigel, I’m sorry for the trouble.” Ingrid seized the chance.

“Mom, I’ll let Ashley come over to send her home. I have somewhere to be.” Nigel wanted to head over to the Silverstein Residence.

However, Brenda’s gaze turned serious as she warned, “Nigel, that is an order. Be good and send Ingrid home.”

Since Brenda was satisfied with Ingrid and refused to have her son avoid getting married, she was dead set on forcing him to send Ingrid home.

“Nigel, my house is not far from here,” Ingrid added shyly.

Feeling defeated, he could only nod. “Fine. I’ll send her home. You should head home early.”

When Brenda saw that Nigel had finally agreed, she turned to Ingrid. “Have a nice chat with Nigel on your way home, Ingrid!”

“I will, Mrs. Manson.” She nodded appreciatively. Of course, she knew Brenda liked her. As long as she could snatch Nigel’s heart, pleasing her future in-laws would not be an issue.

The only setback today was that Nigel did not treat her any differently, nor did he even spare her more than a few glances throughout the night. She could still tell if a man was interested in her.

Now that Ingrid had gotten into his car, she naturally would not give up a chance to brief him more about herself, such as her studies and how she planned to start her own business after graduating. She wanted him to know how hardworking and ambitious she was.

While she was at it, she also tried a series of seductive moves on him. For instance, leaning against him out of the blue or cheerfully playing with her curly hair while looking at him with her innocent eyes.

“Nigel, I heard you like racing. You’re so talented!”

“I almost lost my life doing that, so I stopped long ago,” he replied.

“Huh? Really? You should be more careful!” she reminded him in concern.

Just like Ingrid had mentioned, her home was indeed not far from the restaurant and only a twenty- minute drive away. Oh, how I wish I live further away. I could’ve chatted with him more.

“Nigel, can we exchange numbers? That way, I can always ask you if I have any questions,” she requested while looking at him with pleading eyes.

“I’m sorry, but I’m swamped with work and can’t help you much,” he rejected before getting out of the car.

While blinking her eyes, she felt her heart skipping a beat when she saw him walking over to her side. He’s such a gentleman!

However, Nigel’s action only intended for her to get out of the car sooner so she would not delay his plans to the Silverstein Residence. Under such a situation, Ingrid had no choice but to alight from the vehicle. As soon as she did, he shut the door and returned to the driver’s seat.

“Nigel, g—” Before she could finish her words, the car had already sped away, and all she saw were the disappearing taillights.

She sighed as she could not wrap her head around this situation. Am I not good enough? Why is Nigel not the slightest bit interested in me?

Meanwhile, Queenie had arrived home as she composed herself before entering the living room, where she was met by the scene of Bonnie and her mother perusing a pile of brochures.

When Bonnie saw that Queenie had returned, she deliberately called her over. “Queenie, give me a hand and choose the best house out of these. Mom and I are dizzy from all the options.”

Since Queenie was not in the mood to do anything, she shook her head and refused, “I’m tired.”

“Queenie, are you sad because I’m going to buy a new house?” Bonnie deliberately asked that question.

“I’m not sad. You can buy whichever house you like,” Queenie stated calmly.

On the other hand, Maggie also glanced at her older daughter, believing she would not be bothered about this matter. Then, she turned to Bonnie and assured her, “Queenie is just tired. Don’t be silly.”

“Mom, look at this one. This is the most expensive one of all. It costs eighty million, but it’s the one I like the most! If I live here, I’ll be neighbors with celebrities! Mom, I want this one.” Bonnie raised her voice while saying that. She knew Queenie’s house was worth fifty million, while hers would cost thirty million more than hers!

“Sure. If you like this one, we’ll get it and forget about the others,” Maggie agreed.

“Yes! Thank you, Mom. I knew you loved me the most.” After saying that, Bonnie embraced her mother in excitement.

Meanwhile, Queenie listened to their conversation while heading upstairs and swallowing all the inner thoughts that filled her heart. Back then, she would share her feelings with her mom, but now that Bonnie had returned, her relationship with her mom seemed to have suddenly distanced.

She did not dare to tell her mom about things that upset her because she was afraid that Bonnie would find out about it and add salt to her injuries.

After heading upstairs, Queenie took a bath and changed into a pair of comfortable pajamas, but just when she was about to go to bed, she heard the familiar roar of a sports car’s engine through the balcony. It was a tranquil night, so she was certain that she did not mishear it. That’s Nigel. Is he here?

On the other hand, Bonnie also heard the sound of the engine and felt her heart skip a beat. Is Nigel here? Then, she quickly faced her mom. “Mom, why is Nigel coming for a visit at such a late hour? It’s not appropriate, is it? They haven’t even gotten engaged, nor has he proposed, so why would he come here now?”

She deliberately led Maggie to some negative ideas, which were already in Maggie’s head. It’s already 9.00PM, so it’s kind of inappropriate for him to come over now.

Suddenly, the doorbell rang. Just as Maggie was about to get up, she heard Queenie hollering from the second-floor railing, “Mom, tell him I’m not home. I’m tired, so I don’t feel like meeting him.”

Maggie was taken aback. What’s the matter? Is Queenie not talking to Nigel? Did they get into a fight?

As soon as Bonnie heard that, she instantly sprang from the couch. “Mom, I’ll accompany you to the door. Don’t worry, Queenie! We won’t let Young Master Nigel through the door.”

Meanwhile, Queenie chose to turn a deaf ear. Whatever! She was feeling extremely frustrated tonight anyway.

“Mom, something must’ve happened between Queenie and Young Master Nigel. Maybe he mistreated her.” Bonnie wanted nothing more than for the couple to sever ties, which was why she said that to Maggie.

Hearing that, Maggie became lost in her thoughts. Did he mistreat Queenie? She then approached the small door in the courtyard and a victorious smile appeared on Bonnie’s face. Ha! Finally, Queenie and Nigel are having a dispute! I must take this opportunity to break them up entirely.

As they expected, the person standing outside the door was Nigel, who greeted them through the gate, “Good evening, Mrs. Silverstein. Is Queenie home?”

“Queenie is still out meeting a client with her dad! Is there anything important you must see her for?” Maggie asked probingly.

“Oh, so she’s not home yet! I thought she would’ve already been home at this hour.” Disappointment filled Nigel’s heart, but he also felt distressed for her. Is she that busy right after taking over the company?

“Young Master Nigel, you and Queenie aren’t engaged yet. Aren’t you afraid that others might feel jealous or badmouth Queenie because you came to her house at such a late hour?” Bonnie was stirring the pot.

“Bonnie, stop it.” Maggie glared at her and chastised her.

“I didn’t say anything wrong.” Bonnie pouted her red lips.

“If that’s the case, then I’ll visit her tomorrow. I tried calling her, but she wouldn’t pick up, so I’m worried about her.”

“She’s with her father. What are you so worried about?” Bonnie’s tone was stern. It was the first time she dared speak so rudely to Nigel.

Anyway, she stopped hoping that he would fall in love with her, so she did not bother being polite to him as a result.

“Enough, Bonnie. Stop that. Young Master Nigel, Queenie is currently with my husband, so there’s nothing that should concern you. Have a good rest!”

At that moment, Bonnie whispered into Maggie’s ears, “Mom, I just saw Queenie crying. Why don’t you head back and talk to her? In case she does something irrational.”

Hearing that, Maggie became anxious and said to Nigel, “Young Master Nigel, please see yourself out.”

Soon, she turned around and went back inside, leaving Bonnie alone. Subsequently, Bonnie called out to the departing man. “Young Master Nigel, wait a minute. I have something to tell you.”

That made Nigel frown. Although he did not like Bonnie, she was still Queenie’s younger sister, so he reserved some respect for her. “Miss Bonnie, what would you like to say to me?” he asked through the gate.

“Actually, Queenie’s home, but she doesn’t want to see you.” She acted as if she told him that because she was trying to be nice. She was eager to know what had happened between them.

“She’s home?” He was surprised, but it soon turned into sadness. She’s home, but why doesn’t she want to see me?

“Yes. Queenie said she didn’t want to see you and asked Mom to send you away. Did you mistreat her in any way?” Bonnie questioned.

With narrowed eyes, Nigel racked his brain but could not decipher how he had angered Queenie. We just kissed last night!

“Bonnie, please open the door. I need to head in and talk to Queenie.”

However, Bonnie shook her head while explaining, “But Queenie said not to open the door. She would hate me to death if I disobeyed her.”

“Bonnie, I’m begging you.” Nigel was desperate to look for Queenie and explain everything.

It was then that Bonnie unlocked the door. “Young Master Nigel, go ahead! It’s better to clarify things face to face.” Then, she trailed after the anxious man and waited for a good show.

In the meantime, Queenie had already left her room and was sitting on the couch. A distressed Maggie was in the middle of asking her what had happened when she saw her daughter’s red eyes. It seemed that she had been paying too much attention to Bonnie and had neglected Queenie, which she felt inherently guilty about.

Assuming that Nigel must have already left, Queenie suddenly became even more disheartened. She pursed her lips, and tears were encircling her eyes when she saw the door open before a figure dashed in.

Her eyes widened scarcely as she sprang to her feet in anger. How did he get in?

Meanwhile, Maggie could not help but be frustrated at Bonnie for letting him in. Jeez! Queenie is still upset!

“Young Master Nigel, Queenie isn’t in a good mood and doesn’t wish to see you. Please leave.” She took a few steps forward, attempting to block him from entering the room.

At the same time, Nigel was shocked by Queenie’s teary eyes. Looking at the sad and resentful gaze she was throwing at him, he felt as if someone was gripping his heart and rendering his breathing difficult.

“Queenie, what’s the matter?” Since Maggie was blocking his way, he could only stand in the hall and look at Queenie. At this moment, his identity did not matter because Maggie would not let him approach her at all.

“Go away! I don’t want to see you.” Queenie turned her back away as she did not want him to see this vulnerable side of her. Rather, she intently chased him away. “Don’t come to me ever again. I never want to see you anymore!”

Meanwhile, Bonnie stood behind Nigel while enjoying the free-ticket show. She did not expect Queenie would hate him to the point that she never wanted to see him again. What did Nigel do to anger her to this point? There’s only one thing that would make a woman this sad—he cheated on her.

Remembering the words Queenie refuted so confidently last time, Bonnie revealed a satisfying smirk. Guess who’s the clown now? Boohoo!

“Queenie, let’s talk this out. What happened? H-How did I hurt you?” Nigel felt like he would not be able to decipher the situation even if he had ten brains. Of course, he would not be able to. How on earth could he have known that Queenie was at the restaurant when he was at the dinner party?

“Young Master Nigel, my daughter is not in a good mood at the moment, so please leave. You should talk about this later!” Maggie stared at Nigel sternly as she spoke in an unwelcoming way.

She would never allow anyone to harm her daughter.

“Young Master Nigel, I told you that Queenie doesn’t want to see you, yet you insisted on coming in. Look what’s happened!” Bonnie added a snarky remark from the side.

At that point, Nigel was so anxious that he tightened his fists. This was the first time he felt a dull pain in his chest because of a woman. While looking at Queenie’s back, he thought that receiving a beating or scolding was better than being given the cold shoulder.

“If I did anything wrong, you could hit me or yell at me if that makes you feel better. Can we just talk this out?” He was reluctant to leave.

“There’s nothing to talk about between us.” At that moment, Queenie turned around to face him. Her eyes were red, but her gaze was firm. “It was my fault for thinking you were different.”

Yes. It’s my fault for not seeing through him. I thought he was different, but it turns out that any man will be the same as Leslie. He was just better at hiding it from me, and I was lucky to have witnessed him having a date with another woman.

“I…” Nigel had always been good with words, but he was now speechless as he was out of ideas to convince Queenie to talk to him.

“Young Master Nigel, please leave! Do you still not understand? Queenie doesn’t like you anymore.” Bonnie’s words added insult to injury.

READING FREE LIGHT NOVEL AT NOVEL BIN