Chapter 561
Sharon couldn’t help but laugh.
“Carter, don’t you get it yet? I’m not refusing to lend the violin because I’m worried about my concert. I just don’t like Kelly. That’s it. I don’t want her touching my violin. Is that clear enough for you? I’d rather smash it than let her lay a finger on it.”
The air turned heavy and still.
Carter’s handsome face darkened. £1
“Even if you had nothing to do with the kidnapping, Kelly still saved Theo. Sharon, is that violin really more important to you than the woman who protected your son? And from another perspective, Kelly distracted the kidnapper in a life-or-death moment. Indirectly, she saved you too.”
He looked straight at her, his dark eyes filled with disappointment. “Has my choice meant nothing to you?”
At those words, Theo, who had been silent the entire time, lifted his head and glanced at Sharon.
She didn’t look at him. Instead, she said, “Objects are dead. People are alive. If I had to choose between Theo and the violin, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second—I’d choose him.
“But if you want me to hand that violin over to the one who orchestrated the whole thing behind the scenes, I’d still rather
smash it.”
Julliard chimed in smoothly, “Behind the scenes? Are you saying… Kelly was the mastermind?” 1
Sharon gave Kelly a sidelong glance and let out a cold laugh.
“Of all people, why would the kidnapper ask me to be the one to ransom Theo? And why such a disgusting ‘two choices’ setup? He talked about his so-called grudge with Carter, sure. But who knows if that wasn’t just made up?
“And then, in front of both Kelly and Theo, he suddenly starts treating me kindly, chatting with me like we’re old friends, and that’s enough to say I know him? That I’m working with him?
“Don’t you think that’s ridiculous? If I really knew the kidnapper, wouldn’t he try to hide it? Why would he expose our connection’ right in front of witnesses?
“Was it just for fun? Or was he trying to throw the blame on me on purpose?”
She gave them a half-smile.
“When I speak, none of you believe me. But a criminal on the run? You take his every word as gospel.
it’s absurd.”
Kelly broke into a cold sweat under Sharon’s gaze.
Sharon was too sharp
No wonder Thomas had said her plan was full of holes.
Right now, Kelly felt lucky grateful, even that Thomas had helped clean things up behind the scenes. Otherwise, Sharon might’ve caught a thread and unraveled the whole thing
Sharon had said what she came to say. She had no intention of wasting another second on people who didn’t matter.
Without looking back, she turned and walked out of the hospital room.
Carter’s eyes darkened. He moved, almost instinctively, to stop her. But Julliard stepped in his way.
1/2
Chapter 561
“Carter, this matter still hasn’t been thoroughly investigated. Bringing Sharon here so soon really isn’t fair to her.”
Kelly frowned at his words.
When Nate suggested bringing Sharon in for questioning earlier, Julliard had kept quiet.
But now that she was here, he suddenly wanted to play the good guy?
Hypocrite.
+15 BONUS
She realized that in all her conflicts with Sharon, Julliard had always played the peacemaker. But every time, his words subtly leaned toward Sharon’s side.
Could it be… he liked Sharon?
Just outside the hospital room, Sharon had barely taken a few steps when Theo, who had secretly followed her out, called after
her.
“Mommy.”
Chapter 562
Chapter 562
Sharon stopped and turned to look at Theo.
“What is it?”
+15 BONUS
Her voice was calm, her expression composed. There was no warmth in her tone, but neither was there coldness. Just a quiet neutrality.
Theo stared at her, a little dazed.
His mother felt different again. Not like she had been before, but not like she was a few weeks ago either.
Back then, her indifference had made him angry, left him feeling abandoned. But now, there was something heavier pressing against his chest. Something like a weight he didn’t know how to lift.
Children feel these things the quickest. And he could already tell that his mother no longer loved him the way she used to.
He blurted out, “Mommy, about just now… it wasn’t me who told Dad.”
Sharon gave a small nod. “I know.”
That quiet answer, her unshaken calm, extinguished all the urgency he had carried with him. His eyes turned red.
“Mommy… do you not want me anymore?”
Sharon said evenly, “No. Even if custody is with your father, I’m still your mother. That doesn’t change. I’ll take responsibility. Always.”
But her words didn’t comfort him.
Theo looked up at her. “I don’t want to stay with Dad. I want to live with you.”
Sharon looked at him, mildly surprised.
“You want to stay with me for a while?”
He shook his head. “No. I want to live with you. All the time.”
There was a pause. Sharon stood quietly, her gaze softening just a little.
“Your dad and grandma won’t agree to that.”
“I asked the other kids. They said that when parents get divorced, we’re allowed to choose. We can choose who we want to live
with.”
He looked at her with wide eyes, full of fragile hope.
“I choose you.”
Sharon lowered her gaze. “What about Kelly? If you choose me, you won’t be able to see her very often anymore.”
Theo clearly hadn’t thought that far ahead. He froze, caught off guard.
He didn’t answer. Maybe he didn’t know how to.
He wanted to be with his mom. But he didn’t want to lose Kelly either.
Even if his mom hated her, Kelly had always been kind to him. She’d even risked her life to save him.
Sharon didn’t push him for an answer. Instead, she said simply, “Your custody is already with your father. If you really want to
1/2
Chapter 562
+15 BONUS
live with me, you’ll have to talk to him about it. I have something to do now, so I’m leaving.”
She turned and walked away.
Theo stood there, watching her go. His small mouth quivered, and his face crumpled with sorrow.
The door to the hospital room opened again. Carter stepped out.
When he saw his son’s reddened eyes, something shifted in his expression.
“Your mom thought it was you who told me about what happened?”
Theo shook his head listlessly. “No… she didn’t even ask. I tried to explain, but she didn’t really say anything.”
He looked up at Carter. “Dad, do you think… do you think Mom really doesn’t want me anymore?”
“No,” Carter said, gently. “If she didn’t want you, she wouldn’t have risked her life to save you.”
After a moment of silence, Theo asked, “Is Mom mad at me because she thinks I told you? Can you explain it to her? Tell her I didn’t tell anyone. It was that bad man… he left behind a recording.”
That was how everyone had learned about Sharon’s connection to the kidnapper-through a recorder found in Dillon’s room. It had captured a conversation between Sharon and the man.
When Carter asked Kelly, she’d dodged the question. Said maybe it was a misunderstanding. Theo had been vague too, pretending not to know much.
But no one knew Theo better than Carter. One look at his son’s face, and he could tell-Theo was lying.
Still, he didn’t press him. He didn’t scold him. Asking a five-year-old to stand up and accuse his own mother-that was far too cruel.
So instead, he took the recording and brought it to Kelly.
Theo, sensing what was coming, had secretly gone to talk to her first.
She had crouched down and said, “Theo, I believe your mom isn’t like that. Maybe this is just a misunderstanding. If that’s true, let’s not tell your dad for now. Okay?”
And that was exactly what he’d wanted to hear. Kelly always knew just what to say. (1)
She kept her word too. Never said anything; not until Carter played the recording, and she couldn’t avoid it anymore.
That was when she finally told the truth.
But Mom misunderstood.
He’d tried to explain, really, he had. But when he saw her unhappy expression, all the words caught in his throat. He swallowed them back down. (1
Maybe he’d try again when she was in a better mood.
Now, thinking of their conversation, he looked up and said, “Dad, I’m five now. I think I can decide some things for myself. There’s something I want to talk to you about.”
“What is it?”
“I want to live with Mom,” he said.
Chapter 563
+15 BONUS
Chapter 563
After speaking, Theo looked up at Carter cautiously, anxiety written all over his face.
Ever since he could remember, his grandmother had been whispering in his ear that he was the future heir to the Biggs family- a child destined to be different from the rest. He might still be young, but he wasn’t naive. He understood that wanting to live with his mother wouldn’t be so simple.
But the thought of that awful Matty possibly stealing his mom away made his chest tighten with unbearable frustration.
Carter didn’t scowl, nor did he show any sign of displeasure. Instead, he asked calmly, “Why the sudden desire to live with your mom? Aren’t things good with Dad?”
Theo dropped his gaze. “Dad, you’re always so busy. You’re hardly ever home. I get so lonely by myself…”
He paused, tears beginning to shimmer in his eyes.
“I haven’t tasted Mom’s cooking in so long. I haven’t heard one of her bedtime stories in forever. I miss her… I just want her to be by my side. No matter how kind Kelly is, she’ll never be able to replace Mom.” 1
Carter showed no surprise. It was only natural. After all, it was Sharon who had raised Theo since birth.
But as the silence stretched on, Theo grew uneasy.
“Dad, I promise I won’t slack off on my studies if I live with Mom. I’ll study hard and be the kind of heir you want me to be. And when I have free time, I’ll come visit you and Grandma.”
Carter looked into his son’s hopeful eyes. His dark gaze rippled, deep as an undercurrent beneath still water.
Then he asked, “Theo, do you still want to live with both your mom and me, the three of us together like before?”
Theo nodded without hesitation. “Of course I do!”
He had always admired his father. His mother had told him many times how impressive his dad was-how he could do anything. But Dad was just too busy and hardly had time for him. Given the choice, Theo would rather live with Mom.
Carter said, “If you want to live with your mom, I’ll let you.”
Theo’s eyes lit up with joy. “Really?!”
Carter nodded. “But you have to promise me one thing.”
Theo didn’t even pause. “Anything! I promise, no matter what it is!”
Carter’s voice was steady. “While you’re living with Mom, I have a task for you. Try to convince her to come back home. If you can do that, the three of us can live together again like we used to. Then you won’t have to feel torn between your parents anymore,”
Theo’s eyes gleamed.
Of course. Why hadn’t he thought of that?
If Mom and Dad got back together, no other kid would ever be able to take his mom away from him again.
He nodded enthusiastically. “Okay! I’ll help you, Dad!”
Carter was about to say more when his phone rang.
He glanced at the screen, and a flicker of surprise crossed his eyes.
He picked up. “Victoria?”
1/3
Chapter 563
+15 BONUS
Whatever the caller said made Carter’s gaze darken slightly. He looked down at Theo before replying, “Alright. I’ll bring Theo
with me.”
After ending the call, Rick turned to Victoria. “He agreed to meet?”
Victoria nodded. “Yes, he did.”
“Does he know Sharon’s identity?”
“I’m not sure. Last time we spoke, I didn’t get the sense that he did.”
“Are you planning to tell him?”
Victoria thought for a moment, then shook her head. “I think we should wait until after Dad meets Sharon. No point in stirring things up too early.”
Rick considered this. “That’s a wise decision.”
“I’ve asked Carter to bring the child along too,” Victoria added with a small smile. “I’m going to step out and pick out a gift for Theo.”
“Alright.”
The next day, Victoria arrived at the private room right on time, only to find Carter and his son already there.
What surprised her was the beautiful young woman seated beside Theo.
Victoria had a sharp memory. It didn’t take long for her to recognize who it was.
Kelly.
They had briefly crossed paths at a banquet before.
Victoria walked in gracefully. “Apologies for being late.”
Carter’s voice was crisp. “You’re not late. We’re just early.”
He rose and began the introductions.
“Theo, this is Victoria. Victoria, this is my son, Theo.”
Theo stood up and greeted her politely. “Hello, Victoria.”
Victoria handed him a carefully wrapped gift. “Hello, Theo. This is a little something from me.”
Theo accepted it with a sweet, courteous smile. “Thank you, Victoria.”
Victoria returned the smile with a gentle one of her own.
Then Carter turned to her again. “Victoria, this is Kelly. I heard you’re also quite the violinist, so I hope you don’t mind me bringing her along.”
Victoria’s smile didn’t falter. Her tone was perfectly courteous, giving Carter all the face he was due.
“You’re too kind, Carter. It’s always a pleasure to meet someone with shared interests.”
After a brief round of pleasantries, Carter said to Kelly, “Kelly, this is Victoria.”
2/3
Chapter 563
But instead of greeting Victoria, Kelly just stared in shock at the earrings Victoria wore.
Chapter 564
+15 BONUS
Chapter 564
Noticing Kelly’s impolite stare at Victoria, Carter spoke up, “Kelly?”
Startled, Kelly snapped out of her daze. She quickly suppressed the shock in her heart and forced a polite smile.
“Victoria, hello.”
Victoria, unfazed by her earlier lapse in manners, returned the greeting with a gracious smile. “Kelly, it’s a pleasure to meet you.
.”
After exchanging a few casual words, everyone took their seats.
Since both Kelly and Victoria played the violin, they found common ground quickly and chatted amicably.
Kelly was surprised to discover that despite not having studied at Bell University, Victoria’s violin skills were exceptional. Her eloquence and grace were equally impressive.
In terms of musical understanding, Victoria even surpassed her.
It was true what they said-those raised in elite families had access to resources and refinement that set them apart.
Strangely, Kelly didn’t feel jealous. She only felt envy.
The gap between them was simply too great.
Whether it was looks, presence, education, or upbringing, Victoria outshone her in every way.
Victoria, hailed as the number one socialite, truly lived up to her title.
The lunch proceeded pleasantly.
Toward the end of the meal, Carter suddenly spoke up.
“Victoria, I wonder if I might ask you for a favor.”
Victoria turned to him with a poised smile. “No need to be so formal, Carter. You’ve helped me before-lending you a hand is the least I can do. If there’s anything I can help with, I’ll do my best.”
Carter nodded. “I heard that Rick is set to be engaged to Ginny Blakely. Kelly is planning a concert in three months and hopes to invite Ginny as a special guest performer. I was wondering if you might be willing to put in a word on her behalf.”
Over the years, Carter had never asked the Kalen family for anything, not even once. The fact that he brought this up now, without explicitly saying so, clearly signaled that he intended to cash in on the favor owed.
Victoria didn’t respond immediately. She paused, thinking it over for a few seconds.
Kelly’s heart tensed in that brief silence.
At last, Victoria said, “My brother is indeed planning an engagement with Ginny, and the arrangements are currently underway. I can certainly mention it to him, but I can’t guarantee the outcome. After all, I’m not sure whether Ginny will be available at that time.”
Carter didn’t hide the truth from her.
“She’s scheduled to be a guest performer at another concert around that time. If Ginny is willing to attend ours, we’ll reschedule Kelly’s performance to avoid any conflict.”
Hearing this, Victoria nodded. “All right. I’ll do my best to help, and regardless of the outcome, I’ll be sure to keep you informed.
1/2
Chapter 564
+15 BONUS
As always, Victoria spoke with measured precision-never promising more than she could deliver, even if she was ninety-nine percent certain of success.
The fact that she agreed to help at all was already a generous gesture on her part.
After the meal, as the group exited the restaurant, Kelly finally gave in to curiosity and asked, “Victoria, may I ask where you got your earrings?”
Victoria recalled the way Kelly had stared at her earrings the moment she entered, and smiled. “Do you like them, Kelly?”
Kelly nodded. “Well, some time ago, I accidentally lost one earring from a pair that belonged to a friend. I’ve been trying to find a replacement to make it up to her, but I haven’t had any luck. Your earrings look exactly the same, so I was wondering where you bought them.”
Victoria showed a hint of surprise.
“These earrings were a birthday gift from my father, specially custom-made for me. I’m afraid they’re not available anywhere else.”
Today’s Bonus Offer
GET IT NOW
2/2
Chapter 565
+15 BONUS
Chapter 565
A subtle change flickered in Kelly’s expression as her gaze remained fixed on Victoria’s earrings.
“Victoria, would you mind taking them off so I can have a closer look?”
It was a rude request-blatantly so-but Kelly no longer cared about propriety.
Victoria glanced at Carter. Seeing that he made no move to stop her, she smiled faintly. “Of course.”
She removed the earrings and handed them to Kelly.
Kelly examined them carefully.
The craftsmanship was exquisite. The earrings were intricately carved with floral patterns. Interestingly, the patterns on each earring weren’t identical but mirrored each other symmetrically.
In that moment, Kelly felt a wave of relief. Thank goodness she hadn’t tried to replicate them.
When Thomas had shown her the earring, she had immediately known it wasn’t ordinary. The material alone was priceless. The craftsmanship-elegant, intricate, and impossibly refined-was something no counterfeit could replicate.
She stared at the earring in her palm. It was an exact match for the one Thomas had given her.
A pair like this… Only someone like Victoria, a true daughter of high society, could wear such a thing. Could the lost earring have belonged to Victoria?
“Victoria,” Kelly ventured, “forgive me for asking, but… how many pairs of these earrings do you own?”
“Just one,” Victoria replied.
“And have you ever lost one?”
“No.”
Reluctantly, Kelly handed the earrings back. She didn’t want to. She truly desired them.
But Victoria wasn’t Sharon. She wasn’t someone you could bully into giving up what you wanted.
She had no shortage of money, and these earrings were a birthday gift from her father. There was no way Kelly could obtain them, nor could she ask Victoria to part with them.
Her only goal now was to confirm whether Victoria was the one who had lost the earring.
Thankfully, although Victoria owned the earrings, she wasn’t the person in question.
Sharon soon returned to practicing the violin. With the concert drawing near, she had no time to waste on irrelevant people.
That day, she and Casey were rehearsing a duet “Starry Night.”
Just then, Wendy returned with lunch.
“Stop practicing, stop practicing. It’s time for lunch!”
Casey turned around and gestured for her to keep her voice down. She pointed toward the far end of the rehearsal room.
Wendy followed her gaze and was stunned to see Thomas asleep on the sofa.
“Seriously?” she whispered. “He’s asleep again? Unbelievable. What is it with you two playing the violin and him instantly
1/2
Chapter 565
dozing off? Was he up all night gaming? Just how late did he stay up?”
+15 BONUS
Sharon replied, “I don’t think it’s mobile games. The doctor said he has insomnia. He probably just can’t sleep at night.’
Over the past few weeks, she and Wendy had taken Thomas to several medical checkups. His condition hadn’t improved at all. In fact, they’d discovered he suffered from clinical insomnia.
Normally, Thomas was quiet, diligent, and perceptive. Even John, who had initially been wary of him, had warmed up quickly.
As soon as the music stopped, Thomas stirred.
He seemed to be a light sleeper. The slightest disturbance was enough to wake him.
Sharon suspected it came from a deeply ingrained sense of vigilance.
Thomas checked the time and raised an eyebrow. “I actually slept that long?”
“Mhm,” Sharon said. “Come eat.”
Casey turned to her and asked, “Sharon, John hasn’t been rehearsing with us very much lately. Are you sure that won’t be a problem?” (1
Chapter 566
Sharon shook her head. “John and I have been playing together since we were kids. Our chemistry is just fine.”
Casey nodded. “As long as that’s not a problem.”
Wendy recalled the recent kidnapping and suddenly asked, “Sharon, did they ever catch that kidnapper?”
Sharon replied, “Xavier said not yet. He’s been keeping an eye on Carter’s side too, but they haven’t had any luck either. It’s been so long. I doubt they’ll ever catch him.”
Wendy curled her lip in disgust.
“That fake-sweet Kelly even tried to pin the kidnapping on you. Absolutely shameless! She’s not as pretty as you, her violin skills don’t come close to yours, and in every way, she’s just… average. I seriously don’t get what Carter sees in her.”
Sharon replied, “To each their own. One man’s meat is another man’s poison.”
After venting about Kelly for a bit, the conversation shifted to other things. No one brought her up again.
After lunch, Sharon went back to practicing.
Thomas remained seated on the sofa, quietly watching her with darkened eyes as she played with focused intensity.
Sharon… didn’t seem like the person Kelly had described.
She didn’t appear to deliberately target others, stir up drama, or make Kelly’s life miserable for no reason.
Take the kidnapping, for example. Even though Sharon clearly suspected Kelly was involved, she hadn’t tried to make a big deal out of it. She seemed entirely uninterested in pursuing the matter.
If she didn’t intend to press charges, then all the contingency plans he’d put in place-the traps he’d asked Dillon to set up- were now completely meaningless.
With the preparations he’d made, he could’ve easily left Sharon defenseless. Yet she refused to play along.
For the first time, Thomas felt he’d made an unnecessary effort.
But instead of frustration, he found himself… intrigued.
He wanted to see whether Sharon was truly as harmless as she appeared, or if she simply wore her mask too well.
Sharon repeated the same piece for two to three hours before finally stopping. She picked up the sheet music beside her and lifted a pen, ready to make some adjustments, when she suddenly noticed Thomas still sitting in the practice room.
“Thomas, you’re still here?”
Thomas answered honestly, “Your music is beautiful. I wanted to hear more. Sharon, I hope I wasn’t disturbing you?”
“Not at all,” Sharon replied. “If you enjoyed it, I’m glad ”
“What’s the name of that piece?” Thomas asked. “Is it another one of your originals?”
Over the past few days “helping out” at Sharon’s studio, he’d learned that most of the music she practiced was composed by herself and John. 17
Wendy had even mentioned that John’s breakout piece had actually been written by Sharon.
It spoke volumes-Sharon was extraordinarily talented.
Sharon nodded. “I haven’t decided on a name yet. I want to finalize the score first.”
1/2
Chapter 566
+15 BONUS
Thomas said, “Go ahead and work. I’ll stay out of your way.”
Sharon didn’t have time to chat anyway. She gave a brief reply, then lowered her head and began editing the music.
Immersed in the work she loved, she quickly lost track of time-and of Thomas.
The afternoon sun streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow on her elegant, striking face. It gilded her features in golden light, so radiant it stole one’s breath.
Thomas had never cared much about appearances, yet in this moment, he had to admit-Sharon was breathtaking.
Still, beauty could be deceiving. Whether her heart matched her face… that remained to be seen.
To Thomas, kindness was a luxury. As long as she didn’t harm the people he cared about, he didn’t particularly care if she was good or bad. (1
Just as Sharon finished editing the score, she felt an intense gaze settle on her.
Chapter 567
Sharon’s brow twitched slightly as she turned her head, only to meet a pair of deep, obsidian eyes.
Sharon blinked, momentarily startled. She had completely forgotten Thomas was still here.
“Is something wrong? Why are you looking at me like that?”
Thomas lowered his long lashes, masking the emotion in his eyes. “It’s nothing. I just wanted to ask… do you still have Shaluna?
In recent days, Sharon hadn’t been using Shaluna for her violin practice. He hadn’t seen her bring it out in quite a while.
“It’s with John,” Sharon replied. “He borrowed it for a performance.”
In truth, Shaluna was indeed with John, but he hadn’t borrowed it for any performance.
Sharon still didn’t fully trust Thomas. She couldn’t shake the worry that his amnesia might be a ruse and that he had approached her with ulterior motives.
She had already learned her lesson with Cole. She wouldn’t drop her guard so easily around someone whose past remained a mystery.
Even if she no longer had anything worth coveting… What if he’d come to destroy Shaluna?
So, until the concert, she’d decided to avoid using it unless absolutely necessary.
Thomas sighed with a touch of regret. “Seems I won’t get to hear Shaluna anytime soon.”
Sharon picked up the violin resting nearby. “Shaluna was my mother’s gift to me. But this one-I’ve played it since I was a child.
#1
Before she returned to the Kalen family, her mother had given her this very violin.
Every violinist owns more than one instrument. Sharon was no exception. Neither was her mother.
Thomas looked at the instrument in her hands. “What’s its name?”
“Nameless,” Sharon replied.
He was momentarily surprised. “It doesn’t have a name?”
She chuckled. “Of course it does. It’s called Nameless.”
Thomas blinked, then let out a soft laugh as well. “You named your violin Nameless? I thought girls liked to give their things pretty names.”
Sharon said, “When I first got it, I came up with all kinds of beautiful names, but none of them felt right. I spent three whole days thinking about it and was so distracted I couldn’t even practice.
“My mom ended up giving me a serious scolding. So, to avoid getting sidetracked again, I just named it Nameless. John tried to make me feel better by saying, ‘With a name like that, it’ll become your Nameless Hero.”
She lowered her gaze to the violin, her eyes softening as if she were looking at her own child.
When talking about something she loved, Sharon became unusually chatty.
“My concert’s opening piece will be First Love,” she told Thomas. “I’ll save you a ticket. You can come hear Shaluna live.”
Thomas was a little stunned. Then, he smiled. “I’d like that.”
1/2
Chapter 567
+15 BONUS
By then, Kelly’s concert would likely be just around the corner as well.
His gaze dropped to Nameless in Sharon’s hands.
“If Shaluna is temporarily unavailable… Sharon, could you perform First Love with this violin?”
First Love was one of Sharon’s earliest compositions and the piece she had performed the most over the years. She could play it with her eyes closed. So, she hadn’t practiced it at all lately.
But seeing Thomas’s interest in the piece, she gave a small nod. “Of course.”
She lifted the violin and began to play, her movements fluid and confident as First Love flowed from her fingertips.
Thomas sat quietly, listening.
It sounded nearly identical to what he’d heard at Uriah’s birthday banquet: She had used Nameless that night as well.
As the final note faded, Thomas suddenly asked, “Sharon… have you ever been to Marcentine?”
Chapter 568
Sharon raised her eyebrows in surprise. “Why the sudden question?”
Thomas replied, “I heard from Casey that Marcentine is a paradise for musicians. Many top-tier artists go there for exchanges or advanced training. With your level of skill on the violin, I was wondering if you’d ever studied there.”
Sharon didn’t hide the truth. “I did live in Marcentine for a while.”
A flicker of emotion passed through Thomas’s eyes. “How long were you there?”
“Including my years in university, about six years.”
“When did you go?”
Sharon turned to look at him, sensing something more behind the question. “You’re very curious about my time in Marcentine, aren’t you?”
Thomas said, “I have this strange sense of familiarity with that place, like I might’ve grown up there. I want to learn more about it, just in case.”
His explanation sounded reasonable, but Sharon still found his questions odd.
Her background was known only to a handful of people close to her. Besides them, only Xavier knew the full story. Even Carter had never heard it, so she certainly wouldn’t confide in Thomas.
“I was just there for school,” she said lightly. “I lived on campus most of the time. Occasionally, I’d go out for performances or competitions, but I didn’t see much of the outside world. If you feel a connection to the place, I can arrange for someone to take you there and make a trip out of it.”
Thomas gave a small shake of his head. “No need. Your concert is coming up soon. Better to focus on that.”
He seemed to sense her unwillingness to delve deeper. Standing up, he said, “I’ll go check if Wendy needs anything.”
Sharon gave a slight nod.
After he left, she picked up her violin and resumed her practice.
In an elegantly styled French restaurant, a young man and woman sat facing each other.
After confirming the order, Ginny handed the menu back to the waiter. “That will be all, thank you.”
Once the waiter left, she looked across the table at the man. “Rick, may I ask what this meeting is really about?”
Rick met her gaze. “You and I are about to be engaged. Isn’t it natural for us to meet over a meal now and then?” Ginny took a sip of water. “So you’re saying this is just a casual lunch?”
Rick was silent for a few seconds before admitting, “Actually, I did ask you out because I need a favor.”
Ginny showed no sign of surprise.
The Blakely and Kalen families had been close for generations. She and Rick hadn’t grown up together, but they’d met several times. He was a workaholic. If he reached out, it was never without reason
“Go ahead. What is it?”
Rick said, “Victoria has a friend who’s holding a concert soon She was hoping you’d agree to be a special guest performer.”
1/2
Chapter 568
Ginny raised her brows slightly. “When is the concert?”
“In three months.”
“And the venue?”
“Amstern City.”
Ginny gave him a look. “Your sister’s friend… She wouldn’t happen to be Kelly, would she?”
A faint crease formed between Rick’s brows. “I’m not sure. Victoria didn’t mention a name.”
+15 BONUS
Her expression cooled. “I’m sorry, but I’ve already agreed to be the featured guest at Sharon’s concert. I won’t have time to attend any others.”
“Sharon?” Rick repeated, puzzled. “She’s holding a concert?”
Ginny looked at him as if he’d asked the obvious. “Didn’t you come to Amstern City to bring Sharon back home? You didn’t even know about this?”
Rick’s voice dropped into a low murmur. “My father and I haven’t had a chance to meet with her yet.” 1
Chapter 569
Ginny feigned confusion. “It’s been so long, and you still haven’t had the chance to meet her?”
A faint shadow passed over Rick’s expression. “Ginny, I came to see you today to discuss the guest performance matter.”
Ginny offered a polite smile. “Didn’t I already give you my answer? I’m unavailable.”
She hadn’t even asked for the exact date before turning him down flat, showing no intention of saving face or being courteous.
Rick was clearly displeased by her blunt refusal.
“Did Sharon say something to you?”
Ginny frowned. “What does this have to do with Sharon?”
Rick replied coolly, “Sharon and Victoria don’t get along. If she hadn’t said anything, you wouldn’t have refused outright without even asking the details. I’m guessing she told you that if Victoria came to you for help, no matter what it was, you should say no.”
Ginny didn’t know Rick very well. Most of what she knew came from hearsay-stories told by her parents and the people around her.
When she learned he would be her future fiancé, she had actually been pleased.
Rick had an excellent reputation in their circle-handsome, calm, ambitious, and free of scandal.
He didn’t chase women or keep mistresses and poured all his energy into his career. As the heir to the Kalen family, he was considered an ideal partner by countless socialites and heiresses.
Ginny had long accepted that her marriage wouldn’t be a matter of personal choice. From the moment she began receiving her family’s support and grooming, it had been clear she would have to sacrifice certain things.
Compared to rebelling against her parents and severing ties with her family for the sake of love, she would rather choose a stable career. At least her career would always belong to her.
Love, on the other hand, meant handing her happiness over to someone else. And if that person ever stopped loving her or turned their back on her, she’d be left with nothing.
Ginny had always been clearheaded and realistic. She was never someone who believed in love above all else.
That’s why she had never dated all these years. She calmly accepted the engagement arranged by her family, dedicating her time and energy to self-improvement. Her efforts had not been in vain.
Because of her own excellence, her arranged fiancé turned out to be far superior to the average suitor.
The Kalen family was known for being warm and united, with straightforward relationships and none of the chaos or toxicity common in powerful households. It was widely regarded as the best family a woman could marry into, without exception.
And yet, last time, Ginny had already noticed how little Rick knew about Sharon.
This time, she saw just how much hostility and prejudice he held toward his own sister.
So… was that so-called “harmonious family” real?
She had heard bits and pieces about what happened to Sharon in the Kalen household. She’d thought it was a case of Richard favoring his illegitimate daughter.
Sharon had no way to compete with over twenty years of father-daughter affection. And unlike Victoria, she didn’t have a calculating mind. That was probably why she ended up leaving the Kalen family.
1/2
Chapter 569
+15 BONUS
But Rick and his brothers-Sharon’s full-blooded older brothers-how could they be so indifferent to her?
After just two meetings, Ginny had already sensed Rick’s arrogance and conceit. Her impression of him began to shift.
“That’s because the person who approached Victoria had already approached me before, and I’d turned her down,” she said calmly. “I don’t know how she managed to reach your sister, but I hope that before you draw conclusions, you’ll take the time to find out the truth.
“The one who asked me to be a guest performer is Carter’s first love. You know who Carter is, don’t you?
“One is your biological sister. The other is a mistress who ruined your sister’s marriage. Rick, if it were you, who would you choose?”
Chapter 570
Rick was silent for a few seconds, but his tone remained firm.
“Perhaps it wasn’t the person you’re thinking of. Ginny, you’re being too presumptive. You said I shouldn’t jump to conclusions without knowing the full picture. But tell me, how is what you’re doing now any different?”
Ginny nodded. “You’re right. I was being too hasty. How about this, if your sister’s friend isn’t Kelly, I’ll do you a favor and agree to be her guest performer. But if it is Kelly, I want you to drop the matter completely and never bring it up again. What do you think?”
Rick gave a short nod. “Agreed.”
After all, Sharon was his biological sister. Between a mistress and his own sister, he knew which side to stand on.
Just then, the waiter arrived with the dishes.
Ginny said, “This meal’s on me. But I won’t be staying to dine with you.”
With that, she instructed the server to pack up the two dishes she had ordered.
Rick frowned.
In his eyes, Ginny’s willful behavior today was unbecoming of a proper heiress. Still, she wasn’t his fiancée yet, so he couldn’t say much. He would wait until after they were married to correct her conduct.
2
As Ginny left the restaurant, she glanced back at Rick, still seated inside. A thoughtful look flickered in her eyes.
Carter must have some influence if he’d managed to involve Rick.
Someone like Rick wouldn’t normally meddle in other people’s affairs. If he had agreed to step in, there had to be a personal connection between him and Carter.
No-this was something Sharon needed to know. She had to be prepared in advance, or she might end up at a disadvantage.
With that in mind, Ginny called Sharon.
The next day, Sharon had just arrived at the studio when she suddenly received a call from Theo.
Her voice was calm. “Theo? What’s wrong?”
“Mommy…” Theo’s voice was small and timid. “A man who says he’s my grandpa took me somewhere I don’t know… I… I’m a little scared…”
Grandpa?
Sharon’s gaze turned icy. “Where are you now?”
“I don’t know.”
“Don’t be afraid,” Sharon said quickly. “Mommy’s coming to find you.”
She ended the call.
Sharon didn’t have Richard’s number, so she had no way of reaching him. But she had other ways of finding Theo.
She immediately called Carter, “Carter, I need you to locate Theo. Right now.”
There was a moment of silence. “What happened to him?”
1/2
Chapter 570
+15 BONUS
Sharon couldn’t hide the anger boiling in her chest. “You’re his father, and you don’t even know someone took him away?”
Carter replied, “It’s the weekend. My mother picked him up and brought him to the old house. He’s supposed to be there.”
Sharon let out a cold laugh. “I just spoke to Theo. He said someone took him to a strange place and claimed to be his grandfather. Carter, instead of wasting time arguing with me, maybe try finding out where your son actually is?”
“Alright.” Surprisingly, Carter didn’t argue. “I’ll have someone check right away and update you.”
Sharon hung up without another word.
Roughly twenty minutes later, Carter called back.
“Come downstairs. I’ll take you to him.”
Sharon didn’t waste time. She rushed downstairs at once.
As soon as she buckled her seatbelt, the car roared to life.
“Did you find out where he is?”
Carter’s car sped through the streets. His face remained cold and unreadable.
His voice was calm, yet laced with deeper meaning. “He said he was taken by someone claiming to be his grandfather.”
Sharon stayed silent.
In the quiet of the car, his voice echoed again.
“Sharon, don’t you have anything to say?”
There was a sharp edge to her voice, laced with irony. “Say what?”
Chapter 571
Sharon had never intended to keep it from Carter.
It was just… he had never asked.
There had been no wedding ceremony when they got married.
Before they registered the marriage, Carter had asked only one question. “Should we let your parents know?”
Sharon had replied calmly, “My mother passed away, and I haven’t spoken to my father in years. There’s no need to tell him.”
After that, Carter never brought up her family again.
Now, as he drove in silence, Carter seemed to recall that moment too. His thin lips parted, as if to speak, but in the end, he said nothing.
It was true-he had never asked. He had never felt the need to. Since he’d chosen her, he didn’t care about her background. Of course, that didn’t mean he cared about it either.
“If your father’s after money, I can give it to him.”
He assumed Sharon’s father had taken Theo in order to pressure her for money. After all, he had vanished for years and suddenly reappeared and took the child. No one would believe he had no ulterior motive.
Sharon shot him a glance. “I thought you were familiar with Victoria?”
Carter looked momentarily taken aback, clearly unsure why she’d brought up that name. He answered instinctively, “Victoria and I are just casual acquaintances. I wouldn’t say we’re close. I helped her with something a few years back, that’s all.”
Sharon cut him off, blunt and cold. “Not close? Yet you took Theo and Kelly to meet her?”
After receiving Ginny’s call, Sharon had immediately asked Xavier to investigate. Only then did she learn that Carter had taken both Theo and Kelly to a meal with Victoria.
So that explained how Rick had found out about everything so quickly.
Carter opened his mouth to explain, but Sharon’s voice rose before he could.
“I thought Victoria would’ve told you everything. Clearly, you don’t know your friend as well as you think.”
Carter fell silent for a moment, then suddenly curved his lips into a faint smile.
“Sharon are you jealous?”
She paused, then replied dryly, “You’ve been around Kelly too long, your brain’s going soft.”
Carter wasn’t a fool After hearing her mention Victoria several times, a suspicion began to form.
“You Are you Richard’s daughter?”
Sharon didn’t hide it “That’s right. But I have no intention of returning to the Kalen family. So if you’re thinking of using Theo to gain something from them, save yourself the trouble. I won’t play along”
She figured it was better to be upfront with Carter now, so there’d be no misunderstandings later. Let him know her stance early, before things got messy
But she also understood something very clearly. The Kalen family was a mountain everyone wanted to lean on. Being tied to them even by marriage could save someone like Carter a decade of struggle
Carter, to his credit, didn’t question her further. He didn’t try to persuade her either.
1/2
Chapter 571
+15 BONUS
He only said, “Understood.”
Soon, his car pulled up to a seaside villa in Amstern City.
Sharon’s expression shifted slightly.
This neighborhood… it was also where Carter had arranged for Kelly to live.
After getting out of the car, the two walked up to the door. Before they even rang the bell, it swung open, as if their arrival had been expected.
Inside, Theo sat obediently on the living room sofa. Richard sat nearby, kindly asking what foods he liked.
Rick sat silently on a single chair, while Victoria turned to her father and said, “Dad, if you were going to take Theo, you should’ve told Carter first. He would’ve panicked if he thought the child was missing.”
Chapter 572
Richard didn’t look the least bit concerned.
“This is Amstern City. Did you think I’d kidnap my grandson and disappear? Besides, if Carter can’t even keep an eye on his kid, how is that my fault?”
Victoria was about to argue further when she noticed Carter and Sharon had entered. She lowered her voice, “Dad, we have
company.”
Richard turned. The moment his gaze landed on Sharon, a smile appeared on his face. “Sharon, you’re here?”
But then he saw Carter. The smile vanished, replaced by a deep scowl.
“Well, if it isn’t Carter. Must be awfully busy to the point you can’t even keep track of your own son.”
On the way over, Carter had already received a call from his mother. Apparently, she’d taken Theo out for some shooting
practice and ended up chatting with an acquaintance. By the time the conversation ended, Theo was gone.
At first, she thought the boy had wandered off to the shooting range by himself. But when she went looking and still couldn’t find him after a long search, she finally called Carter in a panic.
Now, faced with Richard’s blunt accusation, Carter didn’t flare up or offer excuses.
“You’re right, Richard. I’ll be more careful next time,” he said evenly.
Richard, seeing him so willing to admit fault, allowed his expression to soften.
He turned to Sharon and beckoned her over. “Sharon, come sit with your father.”
Sharon remained rooted in place.
“Richard,” she said, “may I ask why you brought Theo here?”
Richard?
Richard’s face darkened instantly. Even Rick and Victoria turned their heads in surprise.
Rick was the first to speak, his tone cold. “Sharon, is that any way to speak to your father?”
Sharon glanced at him, her expression unreadable. “Weren’t you the ones who said I was no longer part of the Kalen family? Have you already forgotten your own words?”
Rick’s handsome face seemed to freeze over.
“That was just something said in anger. How could you take it seriously? Sharon, a father is still a father, no matter what. It’s not a child’s place to resent their parents. If you’re willing to apologize for what happened back then, you’re still the Kalen family’s heiress.”
Sharon caught the meaning immediately. He’d deliberately used the title of the Kalen family’s heiress
Was this identity now a bargaining chip? Did he really think she still cared about that?
Her expression turned icy. “Apologies are for people who’ve done something wrong. I haven’t Why should I apologize?”
Her tone stunned Rick. This wasn’t the sister he remembered.
Back when she’d returned to the Kalen household, she might not have been particularly obedient, but aside from the issue with Cole, she hadn’t caused any trouble. Overall, he’d been relatively satisfied with her behavior during her time there
As for Cole-well, that he could understand.
She’d grown up in an ordinary home, lacked perspective, and had just re-entered the Kalen family, insecure and uncertain. At the time, Cole had treated her well. It made sense she’d try to hold on to that kindness, use it as a lifeline to stabilize her place in
the family.
She hadn’t grown up in the Kalen household. They couldn’t expect her to hold herself to the same standard as Victoria.
If she had just said a few soft words back then, or even reached out afterward, they would’ve let the whole thing go.
But who would’ve thought-Sharon had held out this long, still unwilling to yield.
He’d assumed she was just putting on a front, trying to show them she was struggling. No matter how tense things had gotten, they were still family. Blood was blood.
If she wanted to come back, the Kalen family had room for one more. They’d take her back. Just like that.
Chapter 573
Rick frowned. He’d assumed Sharon would’ve come around by now.
“Sharon, about Cole…” Rick started, but was immediately cut off by a soft cough from Richard.
“Rick,” Richard said gently, “let the past stay in the past. There’s no need to bring it up again.”
He wore the expression of a man with a mild temper. Smiling, he turned to Sharon. “You’ve got your mother’s spirit-proud and stubborn. Come now, don’t just stand there. Sit down.”
Sharon took a seat beside Theo. “Theo, are you alright?”
By now, the fear had faded from Theo’s face. “I’m okay, Mommy. I just thought I ran into bad people again…”
He paused, glancing over at Victoria. “Luckily, Aunt Victoria came back and explained things to me.”
His bright, clear eyes never left Sharon’s face, full of curiosity and hope. “Mommy, are they really my family?”
She wanted to say no. But blood ties weren’t something she could deny just because she wanted to.
She could refuse to go back to the Kalen family. She could even cut ties. But she couldn’t take away Theo’s right to choose.
Sharon didn’t know how to answer. In the end, she stayed silent.
It was Victoria who finally spoke. “Carter, I’m sorry. I should’ve told you about this the last time we met.”
Carter glanced at Sharon, and in that moment, he understood. He now knew why Victoria hadn’t said anything to him before.
“It’s alright,” he said.
After their last meeting, Theo had opened the gift Victoria gave him-something worth millions. Even though money wasn’t an issue for the Kalen family, that kind of gift was more than generous.
Back then, Carter had assumed it was just gratitude for a favor. But now it was clear-she’d wanted to meet Theo.
Richard spoke again.
“Sharon, I admit, taking Theo here without telling you wasn’t exactly the right thing to do. But the fact that I could do it so easily just proves one thing. The Biggs family doesn’t take Theo’s safety seriously enough.”
Then his tone shifted slightly, more pointed. “If the Biggs family can’t care for the child properly, perhaps it’s time to let the Kalen family take over. At the very least, I wouldn’t let an outsider walk off with him so casually.”
Sharon looked directly at Richard. “What exactly are you saying?”
He picked up his tea and took a slow, unhurried sip.
“The Kalen family has the resources and the network-top-tier, by any standard. Birds seek out the tallest branches to nest in. With our support and Theo’s potential, he could become someone truly exceptional”
As he spoke, he pulled out a folder that had clearly been prepared in advance and handed it to her. “This is a gift for Theo. Read it over before making any decisions”
Sharon accepted the folder, her expression shifting slightly as she scanned the contents.
It was a share transfer agreement. Richard was offering five percent of Kalen Group’s shares to Theo.
A considerable gesture, by any measure.
She flipped through page by page, her gaze growing darker as she reached the final section.
There it was the real purpose behind all of it. Custody of Theo would be transferred to the Kalen family and would remain with them until he reached adulthood.
Sharon looked up at Richard, who continued sipping his tea as if nothing had happened.
Neither Rick nor Victoria showed any surprise. They had clearly known about this all along.
Lowering her gaze, Sharon masked the emotion in her eyes and passed the folder to Carter.
The moment he saw it was a share transfer agreement, his hand paused, just slightly.
Chapter 574
Carter finished reading the document quickly.
“Richard,” Carter said, his voice low and cool. “I’m sorry, but I won’t hand over custody of Theo.”
The refusal came sharp and final, without a flicker of hesitation.
Even Richard and Rick, who prided themselves on reading people well, looked taken aback. Victoria, too, was caught off guard.
Five percent of Kalen Group’s shares was an astronomical offer. And yet, Carter’s stance remained firm.
“Theo is my son,” he said clearly. “No matter what conditions are offered, I will not give his custody to anyone.”
Richard said, “Carter, handing custody to us doesn’t mean you stop being his father. You and Sharon will always be Theo’s parents, no matter what.”
But what surprised Richard wasn’t just the rejection. It was that Carter didn’t even ask for terms. He refused outright.
That, Richard hadn’t expected.
People lined up for the chance to associate with the Kalen family. Most were turned away without a glance. Yet here they were, willingly reaching out, and Carter was turning them down?
Did Carter not understand what it meant? That with the Kalen family’s backing, Theo would gain access to resources and connections far beyond anything the Biggs family could offer?
With the right guidance, the Biggs family could climb social ranks in record time. Even becoming a top-tier household was only
a matter of when, not if.
Richard, now watching Sharon, shifted his focus.
“Sharon, you’re Theo’s mother. I’d like to hear your thoughts.”
Sharon closed the folder and turned to her son instead.
“Theo, what do you think?”
She understood very well-the difference between a first-tier family and a second-tier one was immense. Her mother had raised her well, but when it came to vision, access, and power, she couldn’t match Victoria.
The Kalen family was far from perfect, but compared to leaving Theo in Madeline’s hands, maybe a future with the Kalens was
better
Still, it had to be Theo’s choice.
He opened his mouth. “”
But before he could finish, Richard cut in with a light smile.
“Theo is the first grandchild of our family’s new generation Everything I’ve suggested is for his sake.
Soon, Rick will be getting engaged. Then it’ll be Scott and Silas’s turn weddings and commitments will pile up. With more children coming into the family, my attention will naturally be divided ”
He reached for the document on the table and slid it back toward himself
“There’s no need to answer me now. Take your time. Think it through And don’t worry, if you choose not to agree, I won’t force you. I’m on leave for a while and will be staying in Zachemaine. As Theo’s grandfather, I’d simply like to spend some time getting to know him. You wouldn’t oppose that, would you?”
1/2
Chapter 574
+15 BONUS
Sharon knew he was telling the truth.
The Kalen family didn’t lack children, and certainly not heirs. The fact that Richard was willing to offer shares meant he truly
valued Theo.
At this point, Carter couldn’t very well refuse further.
Sharon turned to Theo. “Theo, would you like to stay here with Richard for a while, or go back with us?”
Still unfamiliar with Richard, Theo didn’t want to stay. “I’ll go back with you and Dad.”
Sharon rose to her feet and looked at Richard. “Richard, there are some things I’d like to speak with you about privately.”
He sighed at her continued formality, but didn’t show any irritation. “Alright.”
The two of them left the room and headed into Richard’s study.
Chapter 575
After Sharon and Richard left, only four people remained in the living room: Rick, Victoria, Carter, and Theo.
Suddenly, Rick spoke.
“Carter, when you asked Victoria to help invite Ginny as a special guest for a concert, was that for Kelly?”
Carter nodded. “Yes.”
Rick’s expression darkened.
“You didn’t know about our connection to Sharon before, so I let it slide when you came to us for help. But now that you do, let’s not bring it up again. We’re not the kind of people who would betray our own sister just to do a favor for a mistress.”
Victoria turned to Carter, startled. “Carter, so the one Ginny agreed to appear for… was Sharon?”
Carter didn’t deny it. “Apologies. At the time, I wasn’t aware of your relationship with her. I thought you didn’t know each other, so I didn’t mention it.” 1
Victoria considered that and realized he was telling the truth. She nodded. “It really was just a misunderstanding. But…
“Rick is right. If we help you with this, we’d be publicly humiliating Sharon. So… I’m sorry. If there’s anything else you need from me in the future, you can come ask then.”
She hadn’t expected Carter and Kelly to compete with Sharon over the same guest performer. But no matter the reason, Victoria wasn’t foolish enough to go against family just to do someone a favor.
Carter fell silent for a moment, then said, “Kelly and I aren’t as entangled as the rumors suggest. Yes, we were together once, but since the day I married Sharon, I’ve never thought about rekindling anything with her. She’s terminally ill, and I owe her a great deal. That’s the only reason I’m doing everything I can to help her fulfill her final wishes.”
His voice was calm and cool, his face composed, striking in its quiet steadiness.
1
“I can promise you that ever since marrying Sharon, I’ve never been unfaithful. There’s been nothing improper between me and Kelly.”
Rick’s expression softened slightly at that.
“Whatever the case, your divorce happened because of Kelly. I hope you’ll keep your distance from her.”
Carter replied, “Once Kelly’s concert is over, whatever I owe her will be repaid… and I won’t help her again.”
Rick, sharp as ever, immediately picked up on the nuance in Carter’s words. A cold, sardonic smile tugged at the corner of his lips.
“Carter, Sharon isn’t your backup plan. And knowing her, I doubt she’d ever agree to remarry you.”
She had refused even to return to the Kalen family. How could she possibly forgive Carter?
But Carter simply said, “That depends on me.”
Before long, Sharon emerged from Richard’s study. No one knew what they had discussed, but her expression was far from pleasant.
She walked over to Theo and said, “Let’s go.”
Theo followed her without hesitation, and the two left the villa.
Carter gave a slight nod to the Kalen siblings before turning to leave as well.
1/2
Chapter 575
+15 BONUS
But just as the three of them were about to get into the car, a surprised and cheerful voice suddenly rang out.
“Carter! Theo! You came to see me?!”
Sharon looked up.
Kelly had appeared in front of them at some point.
“I heard from my housekeeper. She was out buying groceries and said she saw your car. I didn’t believe her at first. But here you are!”
She looked genuinely delighted and immediately reached out to take Theo’s hand.
“Theo, I will make your favorite snacks later, all right?”
Seeing Kelly, Theo politely greeted her. Then he glanced at Sharon beside him and lowered his voice. “Kelly, I’m going home with Mommy later.”
Only then did Kelly seem to notice Sharon’s presence. Her eyes filled with confusion.
“Oh, Sharon, you’re here too? Theo, why did you come here?”
Theo replied, “We came to visit Grandpa.’
“Grandpa?” Kelly’s eyes flickered slightly as she looked at Sharon in surprise. “You mean Sharon’s father?”
Sharon remained expressionless, offering no response.
Carter had no intention of elaborating either. “Kelly, I still have things to take care of. Let’s catch up another day.”
Kelly seemed like she wanted to say more, but Carter had already turned and strode toward his car.
Theo quickly said goodbye to her and followed him into the car.
Sharon didn’t spare Kelly a single glance as she turned and got in.
Left standing there, Kelly watched the car drive off, a cold glint surfacing in her eyes. She pulled out her phone and dialed a
number.
The call connected quickly, and a crisp, clear male voice came through the speaker. “Kelly, you’ve called me more in the past few days than in all the previous years combined.”
Kelly didn’t waste time with pleasantries. “I just saw Sharon. According to Theo, they came to visit his grandfather. Thomas, find out for me who exactly is living in this villa?”
Kelly knew that Sharon’s mother was Shayla. But Shayla had passed away years ago and posed no threat. Now, Sharon’s father had suddenly appeared…
Kelly stared at the grand and imposing villa in front of her, unease flickering in her eyes.
This villa’s location was even better than her own.
Someone who could easily afford a property like this was no ordinary person.
In the past, she hadn’t taken Sharon’s background seriously, assuming she came from a modest family. But after learning Sharon was Shayla’s daughter, she began to feel threatened.
Thomas didn’t question her. He simply chuckled and said, “Got it,” before hanging up.
About ten minutes later, Sharon received a call from Thomas.
“The villa belongs to the Kalen family.”
Kelly’s eyes widened in disbelief. “That’s impossible!”
Thomas offered a suggestion. “Why don’t you keep an eye on the place for a while? See if you can confirm whether it’s the Kalen family living there.”
He never got things wrong. His intel was always reliable.
Kelly drew in a deep breath, trying to calm herself. “Maybe… maybe Theo just made a mistake.”
1/2
But if Theo’s grandfather was Richard…
Then that would make Sharon… Richard’s daughter?
Kelly couldn’t accept that possibility.
Thomas, however, processed the idea faster than she did.
“Sharon once mentioned studying in Marcentine, but there’s a gap of several years in her records. The Kalen family is based in Marcentine. I’m guessing those missing years were when she was living with them. Someone probably erased the traces.”
Raised among the scheming elite, Thomas understood all too well why the Kalen family would wipe any evidence of Sharon’s existence. It was all about reputation-keeping anything unpleasant under wraps.
Victoria was the Kalen family’s carefully cultivated prodigy. Even the slightest blemish could tarnish her image. Plenty of people were watching, just waiting to see the Kalen family stumble.
The higher she was praised, the harder she’d fall.
Kelly’s voice wavered on the other end of the line. The sound of her heavy breathing betrayed her unraveling composure.
2/2
Chapter 577
“If Sharon is really Richard’s daughter, doesn’t that make it even harder for us to deal with her?!”
Kelly’s voice turned sharp, her long-maintained image of grace and serenity crumbling in an instant. She used to avoid Thomas like the plague, but now, she wished nothing more than for him to eliminate Sharon once and for all.
Her expression twisted into something grotesque with rage.
Why?! Why did everything seem to fall into place so perfectly for Sharon?
Sharon’s biological mother was Shayla McKinzie. Her father, Richard Kalen. She had siblings like Rick and Victoria,
Sharon’s husband was Carter. Her childhood sweetheart, John. Even Xavier went out of his way to help her. And she had powerful backers like Uriah.
Why was Sharon’s life so charmed?
Kelly’s face was contorted with jealousy.
Sharon held all the best cards. And though Kelly constantly tried to console herself, telling herself Sharon wasn’t actually better than her, the truth staring back at her now made the lie impossible to believe.
Sharon was surrounded by powerful, influential allies.
And what did Kelly have?
An empty-headed Nate. An ex-boyfriend, Carter, who no longer favored her. And Thomas… who could discover her lies at any
moment.
Her hand was pathetic. How could she possibly win against Sharon?
Thomas’s voice remained as calm as ever.
“Not necessarily. If the Kalen family truly intended to acknowledge Sharon publicly, there would’ve been rumors in the social circles by now. At the very least, some whispers. But this matter has been buried too deeply-so deep that even I didn’t know. Do you realize what that means?”
Kelly’s mind was a chaotic mess. She couldn’t think straight. “What does it mean?”
Thomas let out a soft chuckle.
“It means they’ve gone to great lengths to keep this hidden. Which shows one thing. Sharon and the Kalen family aren’t as untouchable as they seem. If her identity is exposed, the tension between her and the Kalen family will erupt into full-blown
conflict.
“In the past, Sharon was a nobody. She was easy to suppress. But now…”
Thomas’s tone turned layered, almost amused.
“Now, the people around her aren’t easy to deal with. The Kalen family won’t be able to control her so easily. And isn’t it far more satisfying to watch them tear each other apart, then swoop in and destroy them both without lifting a finger?”
His words were like a sedative, easing the storm in Kelly’s chest. Her pulse slowed. Her breathing evened out.
“You’re right,” she said at last. “I was too impatient.”
Now that Sharon had gained yet another layer to her identity, it was nearly impossible to make her vanish without consequence.
As Kelly spiraled deeper into her thoughts, Thomas spoke again.
1/2
“Kelly, that earring I gave you. You still have it, don’t you?”
The mention of the earring made her heart lurch.
“Yes, I still have it. Why?”
She had once considered deliberately losing it. But with Thomas’s reach and resourcefulness, who knew if he’d simply find it again? And considering how much importance he placed on the original owner of that earring, there was no telling how he might react if she lost it. She didn’t dare take the risk.
Thomas said, “Find it for me. I’ll send someone to pick it up later.”
Panic gripped her again. “Thomas… why now? Did you… find the other one?”
“No,” he replied calmly, his tone giving nothing away. “You can’t wear just one earring. I’m having another made to match it, so you can wear the pair.”
Only then did Kelly breathe a quiet sigh of relief. “All right.”
Today’s Bonus Offer
X
GET IT NOW
2/2
Chapter 578
Once the car started, Carter asked, “Home or the studio?”
“Studio,” Sharon replied.
He nodded and turned the steering wheel.
Catching a glimpse of her through the rearview mirror, he said, “You don’t seem to be in a good mood.”
Sharon’s voice was cold, laced with sarcasm. “That’s none of your business. What you should be worrying about isn’t my mood, but Kelly’s illness. If she has an episode before her concert, all your efforts on her behalf will go to waste.”
Carter could hear the sting behind her words.
“I had her undergo another full medical exam yesterday,” he said, eyes fixed ahead.
Sharon turned to look at him. “And? Has her condition worsened or improved?”
After a brief pause, Carter answered, “Mr. Malcolm’s medicine has been effective.”
Sharon let out a mocking smile. “So it’s improved.”
“She has weekly checkups,” Carter explained. “At first, I didn’t believe she was terminally ill. I even hired specialists and a top medical team to re-examine her, but the diagnosis was always the same.”
Sharon caught his implication. “So, you’re saying Mr. Malcolm lied to you just to help me?”
“That’s not what I meant.”
Sharon gave a cold laugh and said nothing more.
You can’t wake someone who’s pretending to sleep. Even if she shoved the truth of Kelly’s condition in his face, he would still
find an excuse for her.
The car fell into silence.
Theo glanced at both Sharon and Carter. He wanted to speak but hesitated.
After a while, Carter’s voice broke the stillness.
“Whether she’s truly ill or not, once the concert is over, I’ll settle what I owe her.”
Sharon remained unmoved and didn’t respond.
The car continued toward her new studio. Carter opened his mouth several times, as if to say something, but eventually chose
silence.
Then, Theo spoke up.
“Mommy, can I come stay with you for a while?”
Sharon turned to him. “Why the sudden request?”
“Dad’s rarely home, and I don’t want to be alone there. Besides… I miss you.”
His voice grew softer toward the end.
In his eyes, Sharon saw a familiar yet distant look of dependence.
She couldn’t remember the last time Theo said he missed her.
1/2
Chapter 578
+15 BONUS
A vague ache rose in her chest.
She had raised him herself. When he was younger, he clung to her like a shadow. When he first started kindergarten, he cried heartbreakingly, refusing to let her go.
But somehow, somewhere along the way, he had drifted away from her.
After a brief silence, she said, “I’m preparing for a concert right now. I’m afraid I don’t have time to take care of you.”
Theo hadn’t expected her to refuse. His eyes immediately turned red.
Just a few days ago, she had invited him.
Tears of disappointment welled up and fell silently, dimming the light in his eyes.
“Mommy…” he choked out, voice trembling
Sharon turned away from his gaze and looked out the window.
At that moment, Carter interjected, “Theo, your mom is really busy right now. Why don’t we wait until after her concert? Then you can go stay with her. Sharon, is that alright?”
Theo looked up at her, a flicker of hope rekindled in his eyes. (1)
Meeting that expectant gaze, Sharon paused for a few seconds, then gave a small nod.
His eyes lit up again, and all the sadness vanished from his face.
Soon, the car pulled up outside Sharon’s new studio.
She wasn’t surprised that Carter knew the address.
After all, with Kelly and Nate keeping constant tabs on her, if this studio turned out better than the last, they might try to seize it
too.
She opened the car door. “I’m heading in.”
Just as she was about to shut the door, she seemed to think of something and turned to Carter.
“Carter, I hope you’ll take Theo’s personal safety more seriously.”
2/2
Chapter 579
“If the Biggs family loses Theo again, I will take this to court and file for a change in custody.”
Without waiting for Carter’s response, Sharon turned and walked away without looking back.
Sharon was indeed very busy. Not only was she preparing for her upcoming concert, but she also had to attend various performances and competitions.
That day, at the venue of one such competition, she spotted Kelly. There were only a handful of truly prestigious music competitions in the industry, so encountering Kelly here wasn’t particularly surprising.
As soon as others noticed Kelly, hushed murmurs rippled through the crowd.
“Hey, isn’t that Kelly? She’s competing too?”
“I heard Maestro Warner personally recommended her. She doesn’t even need to go through the preliminaries.”
“She’s Warner’s student? Well, I guess we don’t stand a chance.”
“Good grief! Why do these ridiculously talented contestants show up every single year?”
Kelly stood beside Maestro Warner, speaking with the event’s coordinator.
Sharon gave them a brief glance before calmly looking away.
In certain competitions, if a renowned maestro vouched for a student, they could bypass the preliminaries altogether. In rare cases, some could even enter the finals directly.
It might seem unfair, but for the mentors, such endorsements came with heavy responsibility. If their recommended student was easily defeated, it wouldn’t just discredit the student, it would also tarnish the mentor’s reputation.
So, unless special circumstances forced a late registration, most respected mentors wouldn’t make such referrals lightly.
Apparently, Kelly had missed the registration window and was only now signing up-just in time for the preliminary round. But with Warner’s recommendation, she could skip that and proceed straight to the main competition.
This was a high-stakes contest, held only once every three years. Even with a powerful mentor, skipping the preliminaries was as far as most could go. As for entering the finals directly? That was virtually unheard of.
The finalists from this event would go on to participate in an international showcase-an elite platform for cultural exchange
with top musicians from around the world. This international stage received significant attention and was widely seen as one of the fastest paths to fame and recognition.
In recent years, the music scene in Zachemaine had been in decline. During team competitions, it was only thanks to John’s consistent scores that they avoided ranking dead last. John’s popularity had skyrocketed precisely because of his standout performance in this very event.
However, John wouldn’t be competing this year. He had promised his father that after completing his concert tour, he would return home to the Westin family.
He once told Sharon, “Sharon, with you competing this year, I can finally step away without worry.
I never managed to win either the individual or team championships. You have more talent and strength than I ever did. I truly believe you’ll take the crown.”
He paused awhile, then added, “I also heard Victoria will be representing Marcentine in this competition. This is her chance to make a name for herself on the international stage.
1/2
Chapter 579
+15 BONUS
“Sharon, you must win. Win, and show the Kalen family what a terrible mistake they made by casting you out and putting all their hopes on her.”
For Sharon, the preliminaries posed little challenge. After the round concluded, she stepped out of the competition room.
At some point, the skies had turned gloomy. It looked like rain was imminent. No sooner had she gotten into her car than heavy drops began to hammer against the windshield.
The venue was located in a remote suburban area. But before she could even leave the outskirts, her car’s engine suddenly stalled.
She tried restarting it several times, but the ignition wouldn’t catch. Frowning, she grabbed an umbrella from the back seat and prepared to check under the hood.
Outside, the wind howled and the rain lashed down in sheets. The umbrella proved utterly useless. Within moments, she was
soaked to the skin.
Just as she lifted the hood, a car approached from a distance and came to a stop beside her.
The window rolled down slowly, revealing a strikingly handsome face.
Today’s Bonus Offer
GET IT NOW
212
X
Chapter 580
Carter asked, “Car trouble?” 1
Sharon replied distractedly, still bent over the engine, “Yeah, something’s wrong.”
Wind and rain lashed around them, and she was soaked through. She looked utterly disheveled.
“I’ll drive you back,” Carter offered.
She shook her head without looking up. “No need. I’ll have a friend come pick me up.”
Carter glanced at the stormy sky. “It’s more than an hour’s drive to the city from here. With this downpour, it might take close to two. And it’s getting dark early today. This area’s remote. It’s not safe for a woman to wait out here alone.”
Sharon didn’t want any unnecessary entanglement with him. Her tone was polite but distant. “I’ll be careful.”
Seeing her unwilling to get in the car, Carter suddenly pushed open his door and stepped out into the rain, holding a large black umbrella.
Startled, Sharon eyed him warily.
But Carter didn’t approach her. Instead, he walked to the front of her car and began checking the engine.
The umbrella barely shielded their upper bodies. Holding the umbrella with one hand while inspecting the engine with the other was clearly awkward for him.
Sharon wanted to refuse his help, but since he had already stepped out into the rain and was now nearly as soaked as she was, turning him away felt unnecessarily cold.
She reached for the umbrella. “Let me hold it.”
“Thanks,” Carter said, passing it to her.
Raindrops tapped steadily against the umbrella’s surface. Water trickled down his sharply defined features, dripping from his
chin.
After inspecting the engine, he straightened up and pointed at the components. “There’s a fault in the engine. It won’t start. You’ll need to have it towed for repairs.”
Sharon’s brows knitted slightly.
Carter added, “Let me drive you back. It’s cold, and staying in a stalled car like this, alone, you’ll likely catch a chill.”
He paused awhile, then said, “You’ve got competitions and a concert coming up. You really shouldn’t risk getting sick.”
Sharon thought for a moment. He had a point. Her schedule was already packed; falling ill now would throw everything into
chaos.
She gave a small nod. “Then I’ll trouble you to take me to the city. I’ll have my friend pick me up there.”
Carter looked at her, then said, “Sharon, we still have Theo. It’s impossible for us to cut ties completely and pretend we’re strangers. You’ve always felt I wronged you. So, why not see this as my way of making it up to you?”
Sharon replied with no hint of emotion, “You’re a businessman, Carter. Everything you give comes with a price tag.”
His expression darkened.
Sharon handed the umbrella back to him and walked toward his car.
But when she opened the back door, she was surprised to see others inside-not just one, but two people.
1/2
Maestro Warner sat in the backseat. Kelly was in the front passenger seat.
“Sharon, it’s pouring outside. Hurry and get in,” Kelly said with a soft smile.
Neither of them looked surprised to see her. Clearly, this had been arranged in advance.
Maestro Warner gave her a slight nod in greeting.
Sharon took a seat in the back. The space was spacious enough for two without feeling cramped.
Moments later, Carter got in as well. In just those few minutes outside, he’d become thoroughly drenched.
As he climbed in, Kelly immediately handed him a clean towel.
Chapter 581
“Carter, wipe your face first,” Kelly said.
But Carter shook his head. “Give the towel to Sharon. I’m fine.”
The smile on Kelly’s face stiffened for a brief second. Still, she quickly turned and handed the towel to Sharon.
“Sharon, dry off a little, or you’ll catch a cold.”
Sharon didn’t hesitate. She took the towel and replied flatly, “Thank you.”
She was completely soaked, and the towel barely helped. Now that she was seated inside the car, a chill crept over her.
She sneezed.
From the passenger seat, Kelly turned to her with concern. “Sharon, would you like to borrow a jacket?”
Sharon’s brows lifted slightly. If she remembered correctly, Kelly had been wearing a dress earlier in the competition venue.
That could only mean one thing…
Her gaze landed on Kelly, and sure enough, Kelly had on a man’s tailored suit jacket.
A faint, almost imperceptible smirk tugged at Sharon’s lips.
The rain had been too heavy, and her car had broken down-so when she first saw Carter, she hadn’t stopped to wonder what he was doing here.
Now it was clear. He had either dropped off Kelly and Maestro Warner or was here to pick them up.
Whatever the case, Sharon didn’t care to ask.
She looked at Kelly, who still wore her sugary smile, and said, “Sure.”
A flicker of darkness flashed through Kelly’s eyes as Sharon accepted yet another offer without hesitation.
She slipped off the jacket and turned to Carter with a sweet voice, “Carter, Sharon’s completely drenched. I’m giving her your jacket. You don’t mind, do you?”
“Of course not,” Carter said easily.
Kelly passed the jacket to Sharon, still smiling.
“Sharon, what a coincidence to see you here in this kind of weather. Were you here to see Maestro Warner again? If you had told me, I could’ve passed the message along for you. After all, we’re at least acquaintances. I’d hate for anything to happen to you out here–it would be my fault, and Maestro Warner’s too.”
At her words, Maestro Warner turned to glance at Sharon but remained silent.
Sharon spoke evenly, her tone laced with quiet irony. “Kelly, do you assume that every time Maestro Warner and I appear in the same place, I must be there to seek him out?”
She smiled faintly. “Maestro Warner has made it clear that he won’t be accepting any more students. I wouldn’t force the issue. You don’t have to be so guarded, Kelly. No one’s here to steal your teacher.”
Kelly’s expression faltered. “It seems I misunderstood you, Sharon.”
Just then, Carter broke the strange tension in the car.
“Sharon, what brings you here today?”
1/2
She slipped into the jacket. The warmth spread through her, chasing wwey the lingering4
“I’m here for the preliminary round,” she said
Kelly blinked, surprised “You’re entering the competition too, Sharon?”
Sharon furned to her “Why? If you can compete, Lean’17”
“Oh, no, I didn’t mean it like that,” Kelly said quickly. “I just meant with your level of drill, surely someone world have recommended you straight into the main competition”
Sharon gave a cool smile. “If you know my capabilities, then you should also know that even without a comerion, I can still beat you”
Today’s Bonus Offer
GET IT NOW
2/2
Chapter 582
The air inside the car seemed to freeze for a moment.
Sharon’s words had been nothing short of arrogant-blatantly so. She hadn’t spared Kelly even a shred of regard.
Even Maestro Warner, who had initially chosen to stay out of the younger generation’s quarrel, couldn’t help but frown.
He turned to Sharon, his tone layered with meaning.
“Sharon, talent and strength aren’t everything. I’ve seen many gifted musicians fail to perform to their potential in competitions due to all sorts of external factors. Some are so affected by setbacks, they never recover. Others, though less talented, stumble upon the right opportunities and eventually rise to the top.”
He paused before adding, “Sometimes, luck is also a form of strength.”
Sharon understood what he was implying.
He was suggesting that although Kelly lacked ability, meeting him had been the start of her ‘good fortune’. And while Sharon might possess true skill, her future achievements could very well fall short in comparison.
She smiled, unfazed.
“With all due respect, Maestro Warner, I can’t entirely agree with your view.”
It was rare for someone to contradict him to his face. Maestro Warner narrowed his eyes. “Oh? And what is your perspective?”
Sharon brushed the droplets from her hair and replied with a calm smile, “If a musician’s performance can be so easily thrown off by external circumstances, then in my opinion, that just shows their talent and ability weren’t all that solid to begin with. I don’t deny that luck can play a part, but when true strength is in play, even the best luck eventually runs out.”
Maestro Warner’s icy blue eyes narrowed, the chill in his gaze unmistakable as it landed on her.
From the front passenger seat, Kelly sat frozen, still processing what she’d just heard.
Sharon had actually dared to speak so brazenly in front of Maestro Warner.
Did she even understand who he was?
Even the most elite families like the Malcolms and Kalens would treat him with deep reverence.
With Uriah and the Kalen family backing her, Sharon had clearly become so inflated she couldn’t tell north from south anymore.
Kelly sneered inwardly. The more Sharon offended Maestro Warner, the better. No matter how powerful her connections were, in terms of professional standing, Maestro Warner’s authority still reigned supreme.
Sharon would pay for this, sooner or later.
After a long silence, Maestro Warner finally spoke again.
“Very well. I’ll be watching to see how your so-called talent and strength manage to crush all obstacles.”
Sharon smiled but said nothing more.
Throughout the exchange, Carter had remained silent.
But Sharon wasn’t the least bit worried about offending Maestro Warner.
The moment he accepted Kelly as his student, she had understood-they were destined to stand on opposite sides.
It wasn’t hard to sense the prejudice in his demeanor from the few times they’d met. And she had no doubt where it came from:
1/2
Kelly.
Kelly had mastered the art of playing the victim, and people naturally gravitated toward sympathy for the weak.
With Kelly whispering in his ear, it was only a matter of time before Maestro Warner stood against her.
So why should she hold her tongue?
Carter drove Sharon to her studio.
“Thank you,” she said as she stepped out of the car and left.
Only after she was gone did Carter finally speak.
“Maestro Warner, please don’t take Sharon’s words to heart. She’s always been direct.”
There was no emotion on Maestro Warner’s face-no anger, no amusement.
“It’s only natural for the young to be proud. They haven’t yet tasted the bitterness of the world.”
Today’s Bonus Offer
GET IT NOW
22
Chapter 583
Chapter 583
+15 BONUS
“In a few more years, once life has taught her a few hard lessons, she won’t be so naïve anymore,” Maestro Warner said.
The elevator doors slowly parted. Just as Sharon was about to step in, a figure rushed out in a hurry.
“Wendy?” Sharon blinked in surprise. “Where are you rushing off to?”
Right then, another tall, lean figure emerged from the elevator.
Thomas spoke, “Wendy tried calling you, but she couldn’t get through. She checked your car’s location and saw it hadn’t moved for a long time. She was worried something might’ve happened to you and was about to go look for you.”
Wendy finally relaxed when she saw Sharon safe and sound.
“I got news about that painting of yours,” she said. “I wanted to call and tell you right away, but no matter how many times I tried, your phone just wouldn’t connect. It’s pouring outside. I was really scared something had happened to you!”
Sharon pulled out her phone and saw that it had shut off at some point. The battery was completely drained. She’d been so busy lately that she must’ve forgotten to charge it last night.
“I’m fine,” she reassured them. “My car broke down on the road.”
Thomas’s eyes fell on the jacket draped over her shoulders.
“How did you get back?”
Sharon didn’t hide anything. “I ran into Carter and Kelly on the way. They gave me a lift.”
She briefly recounted what had happened.
Wendy muttered under her breath, “Ugh, what rotten luck.”
Then she quickly said to Sharon, “Sharon, go upstairs and take a hot shower. Don’t catch a cold.”
“Got it.”
Back at the studio, Sharon pushed open the door to her private lounge, picked out a fresh change of clothes, and headed to the
shower.
When she stepped out, a steaming bowl of ginger soup was waiting on the table.
A soft warmth spread in her chest.
Wendy was always this thoughtful.
Sharon finished the soup in one long sip and felt the heat chasing away the lingering chill.
As she exited the lounge, she saw Wendy holding a few sheets of paper, discussing something with Thomas.
She walked over. “Wendy, thanks for the ginger soup.’
Wendy looked up with a smile. “I didn’t make it. Thomas did.”
“Thomas?” Sharon turned to Thomas, visibly surprised.
Thomas explained, “There isn’t much for me to do around the studio. I eat your food, live under your roof, and still draw a paycheck. It’s been weighing on me a little. Wendy was thinking of hiring you a personal assistant anyway. I’ve got free time, so I can take care of these little things.”
1/2
Sharon considered this for a moment, then nodded lightly.
“In that case, I’ll trouble you with it.”
When people have too much free time, they tend to overthink. It wasn’t a bad idea to give Thomas something to keep him busy.
Not dwelling on it, Sharon turned back to Wendy. “You said there’s news about the painting?”
Wendy nodded and handed over the papers in her hand.
“Sharon, take a look, see if it’s the one you painted.”
Sharon studied the documents for a few seconds. Her eyes lit up.
“That’s it! Where is it now?”
“It’s set to go up for auction next weekend,” Wendy said.
“Auction?” Sharon was taken aback. “Why would it end up at an auction?”
Wendy handed her another document. “See for yourself.”
Sharon read for a while, and the shock on her face deepened.
Cole burst into an office in the Malcolm Group’s headquarters, brimming with excitement.
“Uncle Lex! There’s news about the painting you were looking for!”
Today’s Bonus Offer
GET IT NOW
X
212
Chapter 584
At that moment, a strikingly handsome young man was listening to his assistant deliver a work report.
When Cole barged into the office without warning, the man’s brows knitted into a frown.
“Cole, storming in without knocking? Where are your manners?”
Cole didn’t have time for formalities. He rushed over, his eyes gleaming with excitement. “Uncle Lex, I found the painting Victoria wanted! It’s going up for auction!”
“Didn’t you say last time that if there was any news about the painting, you wanted to be notified right away? Don’t tell me you forgot!”
At the mention of Victoria’s name, Lex Malcolm finally stirred from his indifference.
His expression softened slightly. “Remember to knock next time.”
Cole mumbled a half-hearted response and handed over the documents.
“Take a look, Uncle Lex. It’s that painting.”
Lex glanced at the photo with casual disinterest, then paused, eyes narrowing slightly.
“This is the painting?”
Cole nodded. “No wonder Victoria was so taken with it. Even someone like me, who doesn’t know the first thing about art, was blown away when I first saw it.
“It’s a pity, really. The painting was being auctioned back then, but neither Victoria nor I had started working yet. The bidding price soared way beyond our means, so we had to give up.”
Yet all these years, Victoria had never forgotten that painting. After starting her career, she had repeatedly sent people to track it down, but the trail always went cold.
Cole added, “I heard Jamie Walton is really into collecting famous artworks. He and Victoria kept in touch mostly because he owns a vast collection of paintings. He’d often invite her over to study and discuss them.”
He paused, a trace of pride surfacing in his voice.
“Besides the violin, painting is Victoria’s other great passion. Even her more ordinary works are worth almost a million now. Some even go for millions.”
Lex had never cared much for art. He only paid attention because Victoria liked it.
But as he looked at the photo, a flicker of appreciation crossed his eyes.
“It’s a fine painting. Victoria just won a championship in that amateur racing tournament not long ago. I haven’t had the chance to congratulate her yet. I’ll make this painting my gift to her.”
His words carried an unmistakable note of confidence. He had every intention of winning it.
Cole laughed. “Uncle Lex, Victoria’s racing skills are on par with the pros. You should’ve seen how cool she looked when she beat that professional driver. It was epic! It’s a shame you couldn’t be there.”
A faint smile tugged at the corners of Lex’s lips.
“I saw the video. She was incredible.”
Lex was only six years older than Cole, and the two had been close since childhood.
1/2
He had always been a prodigy, effortlessly topping academic rankings and excelling as a racecar driver.
It was, in fact, through racing that he first met Victoria.
Cole admired Victoria deeply, but he knew he wasn’t good enough for her.
Only someone as exceptional as his uncle could be worthy of a goddess like her.
There was no jealousy in him, only a genuine hope that his uncle could win her heart. 1
Unfortunately, Victoria had no shortage of suitors who were just as outstanding as Lex. And she had never shown even the slightest hint of romantic interest in him.
Despite his efforts, Lex held no clear advantage.
Cole frowned slightly and asked, “Didn’t you say you were going to watch Victoria’s race last time? What happened? What could possibly be more important than that?”
Lex’s expression darkened at the question.
“Dad suddenly arranged a blind date for me. It was scheduled on the same day as Victoria’s race. I had no choice but to come up with an excuse to skip it.”
2/2
Chapter 585
Cole said, “A blind date? Didn’t you tell Grandpa you were planning to propose marriage to the Kalen family?”
Lex replied, “He said the Kalen family hasn’t agreed to anything, nor have they formalized any engagement with us. So to him, it doesn’t count.”
Cole suddenly remembered something and couldn’t help but complain.
“Don’t even get me started. Lately, I don’t know what’s gotten into Grandpa. He’s completely lost his judgment. I heard that while he was practicing medicine abroad all these years, he met some woman who’s been playing him like a fiddle.
“At first, Damien and I figured, as long as she made him happy, even if she had ulterior motives, it wouldn’t hurt to let her benefit a little. But we never thought…’
He hesitated for a moment, then lowered his voice. “She turned out to be that estranged daughter of the Kalen family.”
Lex’s eyes flickered slightly. “The same woman who could threaten Victoria’s position and potentially tarnish her reputation?”
Cole nodded grimly. “Exactly. Her birth name was Sharon McKinzie, but she later changed it to Jenna Kalen. Years ago, I played a few tricks to get her kicked out of the Kalen family. I never thought, after all this time, she’d resurface.”
He paused awhile before adding, “Now, she’s got Grandpa so wrapped around her finger that even I, his grandson, barely seem to matter. I’m worried she’ll take the chance to retaliate, and that Victoria might get caught in the crossfire.”
Lex’s voice turned cold. “She wouldn’t dare. And I won’t give her the chance.”
Cole felt it best to lay things out clearly for Lex. He didn’t want his uncle underestimating Sharon, especially after falling for one of her traps himself.
“Sharon isn’t as simple as you think. Richard is moved by old ties and wants to bring her back into the family. To back her up, Grandpa, who’s always avoided public life, actually hosted a banquet for her. And that’s not all…”
Lex’s gaze sharpened as he noticed Cole’s hesitation. “What else? Spit it out. Don’t stammer like some weak-kneed boy.”
Cole had no choice but to continue.
“Her childhood friend, John, is actually the heir of the Westin family. He’ll probably be brought back into their fold soon.
“He once attacked me; I had him thrown into a police station to teach him a lesson. There’s no guarantee he won’t still hold a grudge. If he takes control of the Westin family, he’ll definitely come after me.
“And Sharon’s ex-husband isn’t ordinary either. It’s Carter Biggs. They’re divorced, but they have a five-year-old child together. If she ever turns to him for help, he won’t refuse.
“Oh, and now she’s acquainted with Xavier Cooper. Her best friend is apparently Ginny Blakely…”
The more Lex listened, the darker his expression became.
It didn’t take him long to draw a conclusion.
“This woman is no simple threat. Even Victoria might fall into her trap.”
As the saying goes, like attracts like. People tend to gather with their kind.
Lex looked up and shot Cole a meaningful glance. “You’ve already suffered at her hands, haven’t you?”
Cole gave a soft cough. “Just a minor loss.”
Lex followed up, “Does Victoria know you tried to go after Sharon?”
1/2
Cole quickly answered, “No. I didn’t tell her anything about it.”
Lex nodded. “Good. Then make sure she never finds out.”
“I understand.”
A deep, inscrutable light flickered in Lex’s eyes. He curved his lips into a shadowed, thoughtful smile.
“Sharon McKinzie… What a coincidence. That’s the same name as the woman Grandpa tried to set me up with on that blind date.
She was married with a kid. What does she even have that won him over so easily? Guess I’ll have to make time to meet her myself.”
Today’s Bonus Offer
GET IT NOW
2/2
Chapter 586
Sharon asked Xavier for his help and managed to get a few tickets to the auction.
This particular event was relatively low-profile, making tickets easier to acquire. Most of the items up for bid were calligraphy pieces and paintings, not the rare collectibles seen at the last auction.
In addition to Sharon, Wendy, and Xavier, even John, Casey, and Thomas tagged along for the experience.
It was Casey’s first time attending an auction, and she was visibly intrigued by everything.
Seated to Sharon’s left, John leaned in and asked, “Sharon, are you sure your painting is being auctioned here?”
Sharon nodded. “It should be. I don’t think there’s been a mistake.”
Wendy looked apologetic. “Sharon, I’m sorry. If it weren’t for helping me raise funds back then, you wouldn’t have had to sell your paintings.”
Back at Bell University, Sharon had majored in music and minored in fine arts.
She wasn’t just gifted in music; her talent in painting was equally impressive.
Shayla had raised her to be a refined young lady, well-versed in all the classical arts-music, chess, calligraphy, and painting-
and Sharon had mastered them all.
Her calligraphy alone was widely admired.
Since Bell University offered painting as an elective, Sharon naturally chose it as her minor.
She smiled. “Honestly, if I hadn’t sold those paintings, I wouldn’t have known they were worth that much.”
By now, Xavier had pieced together the backstory. He looked at Sharon with a flicker of intrigue in his gaze.
“I had someone look into it,” he said. “Your paintings are currently valued at no less than one million each.”
Back when Wendy’s family ran into financial trouble, they urgently needed cash.
Sharon and John had given her all the savings they had, keeping only enough to get by.
But studying the arts in Marcentine came with high living expenses. On top of that, Sharon had severed ties with the Kalen family and was living on her own in a rented apartment.
Without a steady source of income, she couldn’t afford to wait long.
So, in desperation, she sold her paintings.
Over the years, she had only completed five works she considered truly satisfactory.
She spent most of her time on music; painting was simply a way to relax and cultivate her mind.
So, when her first painting sold for thousands, she’d already been pleasantly surprised.
John, a struggling student himself, also gave Wendy all the money he’d saved through frugality. Both of them had barely enough left to get by.
To support their day-to-day lives, Sharon eventually sold all five of her best works.
After graduating, Wendy repaid the money she had borrowed.
Sharon used part of that sum to purchase her own apartment and set aside the rest as emergency funds.
1/2
Chapter 586
+15 BONUS
Wendy had always been deeply grateful. She remembered their kindness and became one of Sharon’s most loyal supporters.
When Sharon needed her, she never hesitated to stand behind her.
Likewise, when John decided to leave his company and go independent, it was Wendy who helped him find a studio and handled the renovations.
As Xavier finished speaking, Sharon, Wendy, and John all turned to look at him.
Wendy swallowed hard. “Xavier, how much did you say each of Sharon’s paintings is worth now?”
“At least a million apiece.”
The three of them exchanged stunned glances.
John frowned. “How are her paintings worth that much? I remember the most expensive one she sold back then was just over ten thousand.”
Wendy looked utterly dismayed. “Oh my god, we lost that much? That’s painful to hear!”
Even Sharon was incredulous. “If I’d known they were worth this much, I would’ve become a full-time painter.”
Xavier chuckled. “There are only five of your paintings circulating in the market right now. Rarity drives value.”
He paused, then looked at her, his gaze deepening.
“And your painting style is truly unique. Since you haven’t released any new work in years, many collectors believe those pieces might be your final masterpieces.”
Chapter 587
Sharon was momentarily speechless.
Casey, curious, leaned in and asked, “Sharon, when you sold your paintings, did you use your real name?”
She shook her head. “No, I didn’t. Honestly… I’ve already forgotten the pen name I randomly came up with at the time.”
Xavier chuckled lightly. “Sharon’s signature was MK.”
At the mention, Thomas, who had remained silent the whole time, seemed to fall into thought.
Just then, Wendy tugged gently at Sharon’s sleeve, as if she’d noticed something.
“Sharon, look over there… isn’t that Victoria?”
Sharon followed Wendy’s line of sight and indeed saw Victoria making her way toward the front rows.
Wendy clicked her tongue. “Oh look, the lovesick puppy Cole showed up too… I wonder who’s the biggest simp between him and Nate. Hmm? Who’s that man beside him? He looks somewhat like Cole… His brother, maybe?”
From a distance, John spotted Cole and immediately pressed his lips into a thin line, his gaze turning ice-cold.
Once he returned to the Westin family, he vowed to make Cole pay for deceiving Sharon and toying with her feelings.
Xavier glanced over a few times and said, “That guy is Lex Malcolm, Cole’s uncle and the future heir of the Malcolm family.”
“Lex?” Wendy muttered. “Why does that name sound so familiar?”
Sharon suddenly remembered. “He’s the blind date Mr. Malcolm wanted to introduce me to.”
Lex had originally been scheduled to meet her, but apparently something urgent had come up, and he wasn’t able to travel to Amstern City. Mr. Malcolm had asked her to be patient and wait a little longer.
Sharon wasn’t in a rush, but she also didn’t want to reject his kindness outright.
Wendy clapped her hands in realization. “That’s right! No wonder the name rang a bell.”
Upon hearing Sharon’s mention of a blind date, John, Xavier, and Thomas all turned to look at her.
“A blind date?” John’s brows furrowed almost instantly. Because of his deep disdain for Cole, he held a general dislike for anyone from the Malcolm family.
He spoke like a disapproving older brother. “Sharon, men from the Malcolm family are unreliable. If you’re looking to start a new relationship, wait until I return to the Westin household. I’ll introduce you to someone far better.”
Xavier fixed his gaze on Sharon, the smile at his lips slowly fading. “Sharon, are you… really going on a blind date?”
Sharon hadn’t expected one mention of a blind date to draw so much attention.
“It was Mr. Malcolm’s earnest invitation. I didn’t want to refuse his goodwill, so I agreed to meet the person, just once. I’ve only recently finalized my divorce. Right now, I’d rather focus on my career. Romance isn’t really on my mind at the moment.”
Xavier asked again, “Then… when will it be on your mind?”
John turned to look at Xavier, a faint flicker of something unreadable passing through his eyes.
Xavier might appear carefree and aloof, but in reality, he was slow to warm up emotionally. Or perhaps, he already sensed that Sharon had no interest in love for the time being, and so he never crossed any lines.
But John could tell. Xavier admired her. Maybe even liked her.
1/2
Chapter 587
+15 BONUS
There was no such thing in the world as love or hatred without reason. Xavier’s feelings for Sharon weren’t impulsive; they were measured and considered.
Though John had always wanted to take care of Sharon, what they shared wasn’t romantic affection. It felt more like family.
When the time came for her to choose someone to be with, he would make sure to keep a close eye and protect her best interests.
With that thought in mind, John began to reassess Xavier.
Sharon paused, sensing an inexplicable pressure in the air.
Wendy, noticing her unease, quickly stepped in to change the subject.
“Ahem. Xavier, do you know the woman standing next to Victoria?”
Xavier held Sharon’s gaze for a moment before finally looking away. He turned to scan the crowd, recognizing the woman almost instantly.
“Her name is Johanna Walton, eldest daughter of the Walton family and one of Victoria’s close friends.”
Chapter 588
Wendy couldn’t help but exclaim, “Victoria has close girlfriends?”
Xavier raised an eyebrow. “Why wouldn’t she? Her circle of friends are all heiresses from elite families. None of them fall short in looks or talent compared to her.”
“None of them fall short?” Wendy sounded surprised. “I thought someone like Victoria, who’s so hyped up as the top socialite, would never surround herself with people who might outshine her.”
Casey asked curiously, “Why not?”
“Because people compare,” Wendy replied. “A flower needs plain leaves to set it off. Especially someone like her, who craves status — if her friends were more outstanding than she is, she’d have a hard time holding onto her ‘top socialite’ title.”
Xavier chuckled. “You’re not wrong. Many wealthy young women choose to befriend those a notch below them, so they appear superior by contrast. But Victoria doesn’t. Do you know why?”
Before Wendy could respond, Sharon spoke up.
“Because she’s confident enough in herself.”
Xavier nodded. “Exactly. She believes in her worth. No matter how exceptional her friends are, she trusts that she won’t be
overshadowed.
“Besides, your friends reflect your taste. If this so-called number one socialite surrounded herself with people who lacked beauty or pedigree, others would just assume she had poor judgment. On the other hand, impressive friends only elevate her own image and add to her prestige.
“She has three more close friends, and from what I’ve heard, they’re all quite remarkable.”
John suddenly asked, “Is Abby one of them?”
Xavier gave him a glance. “Abby barely qualifies as a close friend of hers. Just an acquaintance at best.”
John visibly relaxed at the answer.
As the group continued chatting, a few more people entered the auction hall.
Wendy scanned the room, then let out a muttered curse. “Ugh, I really should’ve checked my horoscope before leaving today. Why do I keep running into the worst people?”
Sharon followed her gaze and spotted Carter, Kelly, Nate, and Julliard.
She was genuinely surprised. Although Julliard was close with Carter and Nate, he rarely showed up anywhere that involved Kelly His presence here today was unexpected.
Sensing something, Julliard looked up. His gaze landed on hers with unerring accuracy.
He paused for a beat, then gave her a small, polite nod and a warm smile.
Walking beside him, Nate noticed his expression and raised an eyebrow. “Julliard, who are you making eyes at? That smile was way too gentle.”
Then he followed Julliard’s line of sight, and his face changed instantly.
“What the hell?! What’s Sharon doing here?!”
His outburst drew Carter’s attention.
Chapter 588
+15 BONUS
“Sharon?” Carter echoed, halting in his tracks.
Nate pointed toward her. “There, right over there! Damn it, is she here to mess with me again?”
In the past, every time he saw Sharon, he anticipated crossing her. If it had been a while since he last teased her, he’d even go out of his way to appear in her path.
Now? The moment he laid eyes on her, it felt like a dark cloud had settled over him. Bad luck seemed to follow her around. He wanted nothing more than to put as much distance between them as possible.
She scared him now, truly. Even Kelly had warned him to stay far away from Sharon.
Carter followed his gaze and spotted Sharon, standing with her group. His eyes darkened subtly.
Kelly also noticed Sharon’s presence.
Feigning nonchalance, she remarked, “Ever since Sharon got acquainted with Uriah, she really seems to have changed. She’s so
much more confident now.”
Chapter 589
As she spoke, something seemed to occur to Kelly.
“Carter,” she said, “do you think Sharon suddenly wanting a divorce has something to do with Uriah? Maybe he promised her something?”
Before Carter could answer, Nate’s face lit up with surprise.
“Wait a sec, isn’t that the pretty boy we saw at the hospital last time? What’s he doing with Sharon?”
He turned to Carter with a grin that quickly twisted into suspicion.
“Carter, you think that guy’s her secret lover? A little toy boy she’s been keeping on the side?”
Kelly hadn’t paid attention at first, but at Nate’s words, her eyelid twitched and she glanced over.
Then she froze.
It was Thomas. Why was he here?
As if sensing her gaze, Thomas, who had been speaking with John, turned and looked directly at her.
His face showed no sign of panic. No discomfort. Instead, he lifted a hand and waved lightly, smiling at her brightly and casually, as though he had nothing to hide and nothing to fear from being seen.
Kelly felt her heart leap into her throat.
What the hell was Thomas doing?
She quickly realized he was sitting among Sharon’s group. And from the familiar and relaxed way Wendy and Sharon spoke to him, it was obvious they knew him well.
Suddenly, her memory snapped back to what Thomas had said that day at the hospital.
He’d told her he had a surprise for her.
This was the surprise?
More like a nightmare.
Nate noticed Thomas’s gaze and swore under his breath.
“Damn That pretty boy’s actually trying to provoke us!”
He mustuck Thomas’s smile for a deliberate laul and flew into a rage, unleashing a stream of expletives loud enough to turn
Then, just to top #uff, he flipped Thomas the middle finger
Kelly & staned lightened. This wasn’t putneme hate could just bur
“Enough, Nate,” she said quickly, grating his hand and buxing bebe sud uitat more attention. “The auction’s
and to start it’s just take and als
Nate reluctantly turned away, still gelding
After they sat, he continued undirring
“Julliard, you skipped that last sering tion for this so boring one abund paintings and calligraphy? Seriously?”
172
Chapter 589
+15 BONUS
Julliard smiled. “There’s a painting today I’m interested in.”
Nate looked at him like he’d lost his mind. “What’s the point of buying these old scraps? AI-generated stuff these days isn’t any worse than what those so-called masters used to do.”
Julliard said evenly, “No matter how perfect Al gets, it’ll never match the emotion of a painting made by a human hand.”
Carter shot Nate a glance. “Julliard rarely comes to these things. Keep your voice down.”
This auction had been Julliard’s idea. He’d specifically asked to attend. Usually so composed and easygoing, he almost never expressed a strong interest in anything.
Carter was curious himself—what kind of painting could draw that kind of focus from Julliard?
Meanwhile, Kelly’s thoughts were in complete disarray. She couldn’t believe Thomas was sitting next to Sharon.
What was he playing at? Was he trying to get close to her to gather intel? Was he planning to steal her music scores? Or poison her slowly?
No-probably not.
Sharon had mentioned before that her compositions were backed up. Even if they were lost, she could prove she was the original
creator.
And besides, such crude tactics weren’t even beneath her, let alone Thomas.
2/2
Chapter 590
Chapter 590
So… was Thomas trying to avoid drawing too much attention by helping her poison Sharon in secret?
The thought flickered through Kelly’s mind, only to be dismissed almost instantly.
Sharon met with Uriah frequently. If she were poisoned, he’d notice right away. Thomas wasn’t that foolish.
Then what was his purpose in getting close to Sharon?
As Kelly’s thoughts twisted deeper into that question, the auction officially began.
Tonight’s items were mostly calligraphy and paintings.
Nate lost interest almost immediately, yawning within minutes.
Sharon, however, seemed genuinely engaged, studying each piece with interest.
Wendy muttered, “A few random strokes going for hundreds of thousands… What a racket.”
+15 BONUS
Modern masterworks often fetched six figures at auction. As for the antiquities, especially those from the Renaissance era or the Gilded Age, prices routinely soared into the millions. The older the work, the higher the value.
Xavier commented, “It might not compare to the last auction, but this one’s still impressive. Can’t believe there are so many untouched Gilded Age masterpieces, all verified.”
Sharon glanced over. “You know about this stuff?”
His eyes shimmered.
“A little,” he replied.
Wendy leaned over with a grin. “Xavier, are you one of those ‘hidden gem’ types? How do you know everything?”
Xavier chuckled. “I know a little about a lot of things. But I wouldn’t say I’m an expert in any of them.”
Wendy laughed aloud. “Come on, Xavier, don’t be so modest. Knowing a lot is a good thing. Sharon’s the same. She knows all kinds of stuff. I bet you two would have plenty to talk about.”
Xavier turned to Sharon, his expression shifting to one of real interest.
“Oh? Besides music and painting, what else can Sharon do?”
Wendy was just about to answer when the auctioneer’s voice suddenly lifted, full of enthusiasm.
“Up next is a brand-new painting by none other than the master artist, Aurora. Everyone here should know her work-bold, distinctive, with a style even AJ can’t imitate,”
As he spoke, the black cloth covering the painting was whisked away.
Under the lights, a breathtaking field of flowers appeared before the crowd
A sky of soft blue, clouds like cotton in the distance, a windmill stood tall, its silhouette merging with the horizon of water and sky. Wildflowers in every hue swayed as if caught in a breeze, their delicate fragrance almost seeming to drift from the canvas and linger in the air around them.
“So beautiful… The colors are just perfect, and the style it feels peaceful somehow.”
“Just looking at it makes me feel lighter.”
“Where is that place? I want to go there.”
1/2
Chapter 590
“I’d hang that in my home any day. Just looking at it makes my body relax.”
The audience buzzed with praise, even those unfamiliar with art.
Even Casey, who had no real eye for paintings, looked genuinely impressed.
The auctioneer continued, launching into a glowing introduction of Aurora.
“Aurora rose to fame five years ago, capturing the public’s eye with her soothing color palettes.
Even the most ordinary landscapes come alive under her brush, imbued with soul, so vivid they seem to breathe.
+15 BONUS
“She remains an enigma, never once appearing in public, but her work has been recognized by master painter Zeke himself…”
As the host went on, showering Aurora with accolades, Wendy turned to Sharon, curious.
“Aurora sounds incredible. Sharon, do you know who she is?”
