Chapter 401
The doorman of the Howards froze right on the spot and he exclaimed, “Ah! So it’s Jordan’s brother and sister-in-law! Please come in!”
Jordan had already informed the Howards that his eldest brother and the latter’s wife would be attending the wedding. The Howards had also informed the doormen about it a long time ago. Martin even personally instructed them to treat Jesse and his wife with the utmost respect, and to not anger them!
At this moment, the guests were all watching the bride and groom share a passionate kiss and hence, did not pay attention to Jesse.
Jesse walked over and patted Jordan’s back. “Jordan.”
Only then did Jordan snap out of his fantasy.
In his consciousness, the person he had just kissed was Victoria and not Lauren!
‘Poor Lauren. She would be devastated and heartbroken if she were to know the truth!’
Jordan turned around and was excited when he saw Jesse and the woman with an elegant and noble temperament.
“Jesse! Emma!”
Jordan immediately hugged Jesse!
At this moment, the Howards were all really excited.
Martin stared at Jesse without even blinking. Brad even wanted to stand up from his wheelchair!
To think that the esteemed Howards actually lost their composure and got really worked up the moment they saw someone from the Steele family!
The guests were discussing incessantly too.
“The groom’s family is here. His older brother looks quite mature.”
“The groom’s sister-in-law is so elegant. She’s clearly the wife of a wealthy man!”
“Yes, although she’s not as pretty as Miss Howard, a woman like her is pleasing to the eye and I’ll never get tired of looking at her.”
Jordan’s sister-in-law had also caused an uproar among the crowd. Moreover, ravishing beauties like Hailey and Lauren were both present.
The fact that she could spark an intense discussion among the crowd in the presence of these two beauties, just goes to show that she was very charming.
In fact, Jordan’s sister-in-law, Yumi, was Japanese-American and was named after her mother.
Jesse patted Jordan on his shoulder and said, “Jordan, you’ve changed. You’re not shy about kissing in front of so many people.”
Yumi smiled and said, “Yeah, you’ve become taller and more handsome.”
Lauren was also excited to see the two of them. “Aren’t you guys Jordan’s brother and sister-in-law? Hello, my name is Lauren, nice to meet you guys!”
Jesse and Yumi shook hands with Lauren respectively.
Yumi smiled and complimented, “You are really beautiful, no wonder Jordan was so mesmerized when he kissed you.”
Lauren blushed shyly.
At this moment, Martin also took the initiative to walk over.
Although Jesse was Martin’s junior, Martin thought very highly of Jesse. One of the reasons was that Jesse was the eldest son of the Steeles who had already experienced all the trials that his family put him through and hence, was already aware of the family secret.
He was also extremely likely to be the helmsman of the Steeles in the future.
The second reason was that Jesse was extremely mysterious. Martin had sent his subordinates to ask around countless times but he still couldn’t find a single photo of Jesse!
“You’re Jordan’s eldest brother, Jesse, right? Welcome!”
Martin took the initiative to walk over and shook Jesse’s hand.
Jesse was neither humble nor condescending. He shook Martin’s hand and said, “Mr. Howard Sr., my grandfather was supposed to come in person, but he’s been a bit unwell lately, so he had to take a rain check. He asked me to tell you that he is happy to be in-laws with the Howards.”
Martin was overjoyed. “I’m also really glad to be in-laws with your grandfather.”
The guests at the venue were bewildered to see the scene. After all, they knew Martin’s power in the country. Yet, he took the initiative to talk to Jesse, a junior, and he even seemed to be deferential and subservient!
The Steeles seemed to be quite powerful!
Jesse had a powerful aura and he didn’t smile at all.
He said, “I saw many people saying that this is Miss Lauren Howard’s wedding at the entrance just now. Miss Lauren’s name was also written in front of my brother’s. This seems a little inappropriate, isn’t it? Shouldn’t his name be written before hers? Isn’t that usually the case?”
Martin was a little embarrassed, knowing that Jesse was probably trying to seek justice for Jordan!
Marissa was displeased with Jordan’s family. She said, “Your brother is marrying Lauren as a live-in husband so it’s only right that his name is at the back!”
“Live-in husband?” Jesse sneered. “Pardon me but your family isn’t worthy of making Jordan your live- in son-in-law.”
Brad, who could not walk over from afar, was enraged to hear that. “Bullshit, who are you looking down on!?”
As soon as Jesse entered the door, Brad became agitated because he could tell at a glance that Jesse was a big shot!
Out of everyone, Brad loved to confront such formidable figures! Hence, he was hollering to seek attention and find a sense of presence.
Martin, on the other hand, was afraid that Brad would anger Jesse so he quickly chided him.
“Brad, shut your mouth! You’re not allowed to speak again!”
The guests at the venue were all stunned. ‘What is going on?’
‘Are the families of the bride and groom going to get into a scuffle?’
“So handsome…”
Hailey watched Jesse’s every single move since he entered and she was completely charmed by him when she saw how proud and arrogant he was when facing a powerful family like the Howards.
Although Jesse’s face was not as handsome as Jordan’s, Hailey liked men who were domineering, rich, and of high status.
Hence, Jesse was incredibly suave to her!
Jesse glanced at Marissa, and then said to his wife, “Yumi, take out the contract.”
“Okay.”
Yumi pulled out the contract from the bag in her hand. Then, she took out another fountain pen worth hundreds of thousands of dollars which was usually used by royals.
Jesse handed the fountain pen and the contract to Lauren.
Lauren was stunned and she froze for a moment. “Jesse, you…”
Jesse said, “This is the contract transfer of the largest bar group in the UK. My grandfather has transferred his bar businesses in the UK to you and Jordan. Once you sign it, all the bars in the entire UK will be yours.”
The guests at the scene were flabbergasted.
“No way! How many pubs are there in the whole of England? I can believe it if he buys one but he bought the pubs in the entire country?”
“I heard that a few years ago, all the bars in the UK were bought by one corporation. Was it the Steeles?”
“Oh my God, there are so many bars. It must have cost hundreds of millions of dollars! Bar businesses are very lucrative in England because everyone likes to watch soccer at the bar!”
“Miss Howard is going to become the lady boss of the British bars? Damn it, the Steeles are impressive!”
In fact, even Jordan was stunned because the bar industry was very important and very profitable.
“Brother, I’m the third in line. Why did Grandpa give me all the bars?”
Jesse smiled and said, “I suggested that to Grandpa. Yumi and I do not need any businesses to handle, and Jamie has been disobedient the past few years. So all the bars will be going to you.”
The Howards were dumbfounded.
‘Jesse is such a good brother!’
Chapter 402
Stefan whispered to Martin, “Dad, it seems like Jordan’s brother treats him very well.” novelbin
Martin smiled and nodded, feeling extremely relieved.
Since ancient times, many heirs of wealthy families fought and even killed each other for the throne and assets.
For example, Brad and Alex may be brothers but they wouldn’t even greet each other when they met because they were each trying to take full ownership of the Howards’ assets.
However, Jesse and Jordan were different.
As the eldest son, Jesse actually took the initiative to give the businesses to Jordan, just so that Jordan would be able to hold his head high and not be bullied by the Howards.
Jesse looked at Lauren and said, “Miss Howard, please sign it.”
Lauren was not a money-grubber so it was naturally awkward for her to sign it.
Jordan said to Lauren, “Lauren, since this is a token of goodwill from Jesse and Yumi to us, you can accept it.”
Lauren was not a wishy-washy person. She lifted the pen and signed her name. Afterward, she handed the contract over to someone from the Howards for safekeeping.
There was intense applause in the venue!
“Congratulations, Mr. Howard Sr.! All the bars in the UK now belong to your granddaughter!”
“Haha, I’m flying to the UK the day after tomorrow. Old Howard, if I order two more bottles of whisky, you’re not allowed to charge me!”
Martin thanked, “Thank you all for giving us the honor. You’re welcome to patronize our bars. The Steeles and the Howards will entertain you the best we can!”
Martin was extremely proud and dignified too.
Why had he been so desperate to become in-laws with the Steels over the years?
It was because of this!
The Steeles were doing too well abroad and it was common for the rich to expand their businesses to other countries. Hence, having power abroad is a very important capital!
Now that the Howards and the Steeles were becoming in-laws, the local families would think of the Howards even more highly!
Jesse said to Lauren, “The Steeles have investments in various fields around the world, not just bars. Find some time to go to England with Jordan and meet my grandfather so that you can find out more about our family’s business. When the time comes, take over whatever business you fancy. You don’t need to ask me and Yumi for our opinion.”
Like many Japanese women, Yumi behaved very gently. “Yes, your brother and I don’t feel much about money, just take whatever you like.”
Jesse nodded coolly and said, “Yes, don’t worry about Jamie either. He idles about and has fun all day and night. He might not come home even when it’s time to split the inheritance and assets.”
Hearing this, the guests at the scene were stunned, especially those rich and pretty women who were filled with jealousy that was about to drive them mad!
“My goodness, since Jordan’s brothers don’t want their share of the inheritance, the Steeles’ assets would all belong to Jordan and Lauren!”
“It is said that the Steeles assets amount to hundreds of billions, even trillions! They are the richest family in the world!”
“What? Is that true? Wouldn’t Lauren become the richest woman in the world then!?”
“Ah! Hurry up and suck up to Lauren. She might end up being the first-ever female trillionaire!”
Listening to the crowd’s discussion about Lauren, a beautiful woman’s eyes were deadpan and she was trembling incessantly!
The woman was none other than Hailey!
At this very moment, Hailey suddenly squeezed in, pushed Lauren away, and leaped into Jesse’s arms!
“Jesse!”
Hailey burst into tears and hugged Jesse tightly.
Although it wasn’t summertime yet, Hailey, who had gotten back in shape, was wearing only a skirt and a top that exposed her arms.
Jesse was dumbfounded, confused as to what was going on.
Seeing that Hailey had leaped towards Jesse, Jordan immediately reached out and grabbed Hailey’s fair and tender arm but he didn’t recall the joy that touching her would bring him in the past. Instead, his heart was full of disdain.
Hauling Hailey out of Jesse’s arms, he questioned her ruthlessly, “Hailey Camden, what are you doing? Don’t touch my brother!”
Jordan knew that Hailey was a promiscuous woman, so he thought that maybe she did it on purpose to get Jesse’s attention so she could be with him!
Jesse froze for a moment and pointed to Hailey. “Jordan, who is this lady…”
Jordan was somewhat ashamed and he introduced, “This is my ex-wife, Hailey Camden.”
Jesse seemed to have a moment of epiphany. He sized Hailey up and felt that she was very pretty. He reckoned that Jordan must have been the one who had chosen her.
Hailey looked at Jesse coquettishly. “Jesse, you and Mrs. Steele are too biased. When I married Jordan three years ago, none of your family members attended our wedding and you didn’t give us a single gift. Today, Jordan and Lauren are getting married, and you guys are giving her a necklace and bars. Why?”
Hailey felt aggrieved, jealous, and resentful!
After all, she had been Jordan’s wife for three years. She felt that she was the one who should have inherited the Steeles’ assets and become the richest woman in the world!
In response, Jesse said to Hailey politely, “Miss Camden, Jordan married you as a trial that our family put him through. If we had given you money, that would have exposed Jordan’s identity. We were not being stingy with you, please understand. If you had passed our family’s test at that time, these assets would now naturally be yours, not Lauren’s.”
Jordan also said to Hailey, “Jesse is right. Hailey, you brought it upon yourself, so don’t blame anyone!”
In the past, Jordan loved Hailey as much as he loved Victoria!
But what did Hailey do to him? She betrayed Jordan time and time again, so how was she qualified to inherit the Steeles’ assets!
Hailey was incredibly indignant. “Who can stand the test of three years? Why didn’t you let Jordan hide his identity and test Miss Howard? I bet if you tested her like you tested me, she would have made a mistake too!”
Lauren was furious. She had long been paying attention to Hailey. In the past three years, she even treated Hailey as herself at one point because of how much they resembled each other.
Because then, she could pretend that she was with Jordan.
When she found out that Hailey had betrayed Jordan, Lauren was even more enraged than Jordan.
‘You didn’t cherish the man I could never get by any means and even toyed with him and betrayed him?’
So when Hailey insulted Lauren, Lauren immediately retorted. “Hailey Camden, don’t be ridiculous! Not every woman is as vain as you are! I will never look down on him because of money, and I will never betray Jordan because of that!”
As soon as Lauren said that, the crowd at the scene also gradually understood that the groom had gotten a divorce because his ex-wife cheated on him.
This was the Howards’ turf, so Hailey could not say anything to Lauren.
Hence, Hailey ignored her and continued to look at Jesse.
In fact, Hailey actually reached her slender hand out to hold Jesse’s hand.
She said coyly, “Jesse, come over here.”
Chapter 403
To think that Hailey hugged and held hands with Jesse on their first meeting.
It was too much of a provocation! Besides, he had done it in front of Jesse’s wife!
Yumi was clearly displeased when she saw the scene. Likewise, Jordan was extremely repulsed by Hailey because she felt that she was too shameless!
“It’s good that I divorced her. Otherwise, she might one day sleep with Jesse!”
Although Jesse was an austere and imposing man, he seemed like an honest and simple man to most girls.
Hailey took Jesse to her seat and pointed to the baby in the stroller.
“Jesse, this is your nephew, do you want to carry him?”
At this moment, Yumi seemed overjoyed too and she took the initiative to look at the two babies in the stroller.
Yumi looked at the baby boy and said to Jesse gleefully, “Look at this little boy, his mouth and nose resemble Jordan’s so much.”
Jesse also nodded smilingly. “Indeed, he resembles Jordan a lot.”
Hailey also said with a proud look on her face, “He’s totally a chip off the old block.”
However, Yumi quickly shifted her attention to the girl.
“This baby girl is really beautiful and delicate too.”
Yumi couldn’t help but want to carry the baby girl. However, at this moment, Jordan coughed twice.
“Yumi, this girl isn’t my biological daughter,” Jordan said coldly.
Yumi wasn’t aware of Jordan’s paternity test previously so she was extremely shocked.
“What did you say!?!”
The two babies were clearly of the same age and since they both belonged to Hailey, Yumi had assumed that they must be twins.
Yet, Jordan said that the boy was his son but the girl wasn’t his daughter.
As a woman, Yumi immediately understood what had happened! She glared at Hailey furiously, causing the latter to immediately become diffident.
Smack!
Yumi gave Hailey a tight slap on her pretty face!
“Baka! (Fool)! Hailey Camden, as a woman, how dare you do such a disgusting thing!?! Not only that, since you’ve hurt Jordan, why did you bring this girl here? Are you deliberately trying to irk Jordan!?!”
Yumi knew that as soon as Jordan saw the baby girl, he would be enraged and recall the fact that he had been betrayed. Hence, Hailey ought to have only brought the baby boy and not the girl with her.
In fact, Hailey did not want to irk Jordan. The reason she took the baby girl here was that she was Brad’s daughter.
Since she was the Howards’ flesh and blood and the Howards were the host of the wedding today, she decided to bring the baby girl too.
At this very moment, Marissa suddenly stood out.
“What’s wrong? How did my granddaughter irk you in any way? Why can’t she be here!?”
Marissa had long been displeased with Jordan, and now, she was even more annoyed by Jesse and Yumi for stealing the limelight from the Howards and behaving tyrannically here.
Besides, she had already learned of the affair between Brad and Hailey, and also knew that the baby girl in the stroller was her son’s flesh and blood.
As soon as Marissa said that, the situation became even more complicated and chaotic.
“What… what is going on!?! Why is the groom’s ex-wife’s daughter the granddaughter of the bride’s mother?”
“Crap, does that mean that the groom’s ex-wife and the bride’s brother also had an affair before this?”
“Oh my, that’s too scandalous!”
Martin didn’t want others to gossip about his family affairs and thus, immediately shot Stefan a glance.
In response, Stefan hurriedly said loudly, “Everyone, please return to your seats. We’ll be serving the food immediately. Please enjoy your meal and drink to your hearts’ content!”
Out of respect for the Howards, everyone immediately didn’t dare to discuss any further and instead, returned to their seats immediately to enjoy the food and drinks. Soon, the atmosphere was happy and lively again.
At this moment, Hailey saw Jesse and Yumi, who seemed to be very upset about her betrayal of Jordan.
She knew that she might not be able to get the Steeles’ acknowledgment anymore.
Seeing that Brad’s mother, Marissa, was willing to stand up for her, she quickly showed her goodwill and treated her kindly. novelbin
“Ma’am, you’re Brad’s mother, right?”
Marissa looked at Hailey and said, “Yes, I’m his mother. Are you Hailey Camden from Orlando? You’re very pretty. That explains why my son likes you so much.”
Ruffling her hair, Hailey said shyly, “Nah, Ma’am, I’m just an ordinary girl compared to you. You’re the beautiful one.”
Marissa suddenly said, “I’m very happy that you gave birth to a daughter for Brad, Hailey. By the way, would you like to move into our place? I’d like to spend more time with my granddaughter. Since Brad is healing from an injury now, you can take care of him while you’re by his side.”
Hailey was stunned because she realized that Marissa seemed to be implying her acknowledgment of Hailey as her daughter-in-law!
Previously, Hailey had once fantasized about being the Howards’ daughter-in-law, but Brad made it clear that she was not worthy of marrying him. Brad said that he merely treated Hailey as a plaything and a friend-with-benefits.
Hailey was overjoyed but she quickly pretended to be worried. “Huh? Brad’s injured? How did he get hurt? Can he still walk in the future?”
Marissa glowered at Jordan before humphing coldly.
Hailey finally figured out what happened.
‘No wonder Brad’s mother approves of me and acknowledges me. It turns out that Jordan is the reason Brad is injured!’
Hailey immediately promised, “Ma’am, rest assured, I’ll stay here and take good care of Brad.”
At this moment, Jordan was extremely displeased. Now that Jordan was getting married to Lauren, Hailey would become his sister-in-law if she were to marry Brad.
‘This mother-in-law of mine seems to be deliberately trying to upset me!’
Lauren could tell that Jordan was displeased. She said softly, “I’m sorry, Honey. My mom is behaving too nonsensically.”
Not wanting to pull a long face on his big day, Jordan forced himself to smile.
“It’s okay, we won’t be living with Brad so we can at most choose not to see them.”
At this juncture, Martin had already invited Jesse and his wife to take a seat at the same table with him and they had already begun to drink together.
On the other hand, Jordan and Lauren proceeded to toast to some of their elder relatives.
There were hundreds of tables here and most of the guests were there out of admiration for the Howards. Jordan didn’t have to toast to the guests at every single table.
After the toast, Jordan finally had the chance to catch his breath but Salvatore suddenly walked over.
“Mr. Jordan, look over there.”
Salvatore pointed to a direction in the distance. Since it was extremely crowded, Jordan did not spot anything unusual at first.
“What do you mean?” Jordan asked.
Salvatore explained, “That one in the pink dress is Elle Camden!”
Only then did Jordan recognize her. “Elle Camden? What is she doing here?”
Jordan had run into Elle when he was still working as a security officer just a few days ago.
Salvatore whispered into Jordan’s ear, “I was eavesdropping for a while and it seems that Elle is looking for a rich old man to be her sugar daddy!”
“What?”
Jordan looked over again, only to see that Elle, who was clad in a low-cut dress, was unabashedly flaunting her excellent figure to a man in his forties in front of her.
The old man grabbed Elle’s fair and tender arm lecherously, wishing he could do her there and then!
Chapter 405
Elle was so touched that she leaped into Jordan’s arms and even kissed him.
Jordan hurriedly pushed Elle away and snapped, “What are you trying to do!?! What if my wife sees us!?!”
The Howards were the hosts today so if they were to see anything untoward, Jordan would really be unable to bear the consequences.
Elle was extremely agitated too as she hurriedly took out some wet wipes and handed them to Jordan for him to wipe himself.
There were still traces of Jenny’s lipstick on him.
Jordan looked at his reflection in the mirror and carefully wiped himself clean before giving Elle a warning.
“You’re not allowed to do this again, do you hear me? I treat you as my younger sister.”
Elle said, “Jordan, as long as you are willing to help me become famous, I’m willing to do anything for you. When you’re bored, you can always look for me to keep you company.”
In response, Jordan said, “I don’t need you to do anything for me, nor do I need you to sleep with me. If it weren’t for me, your family wouldn’t have been reduced to such a penniless state. This is what I owe to you.”
Although her parents had been resentful towards Jordan for causing the Camdens to go bankrupt, Elle had never felt that way.
“Jordan, how do you want to promote me and help me become famous?”
After a pause, Jordan said, “I don’t know anyone in the domestic entertainment industry either, and I have no way to invest in you now that my funds are frozen. So I’ll take you to meet my brother. He should know some people in the local film industry.”
Jordan was acquainted with big names like Christopher Nolan, James Cameron, and other notable directors of their level. Given the fact that Elle was still in her first year of studies at the film academy, she clearly couldn’t act in films that they directed. novelbin
Hence, Jordan took Jenny downstairs and brought her to Jesse’s table.
At this moment, he was drinking wine with Martin and Stefan while chatting with them happily.
Jesse was surprised to see Jordan bringing a woman with a superb figure over.
“Jordan, this is?”
“This is Jenny, the cousin of my former wife.”
Everyone was stunned. ‘Why are the Camdens here at Jordan Steele’s wedding?’
It was no secret that Jesse and Yumi had a bad impression of Hailey, and thus, they didn’t have a good impression of Elle either.
Elle took the initiative to go forward and called out, “Jesse, Yumi, I’m pleased to finally have the opportunity to meet you. There is one thing you may not know. Our grandfathers initially arranged for me and Jordan to get married when they were discussing the engagement back then. But my father opposed it because I was underage at the time so Hailey replaced me.
“If only I had married Jordan at that time, I would have treated him well.”
Jesse and Yumi looked at each other, at a complete loss for words. The Howards could also tell that this woman, the cousin of Jordan’s former spouse, was somewhat fond of Jordan.
Jordan was extremely awkward as well. “Let’s stop talking about this. By the way, Jesse, do you know someone who deals with local film investments? Jenny has recently delved into the entertainment industry, and I want to make her famous.”
Since it was Jordan’s request, Jesse naturally wouldn’t turn him down.
“I do know a few directors. I can recommend her to both of them.”
“Really? Thank you, Jesse!” Jenny was overjoyed.
At this moment, Stefan suddenly said, “Miss Jenny, do you want to break into the entertainment industry? Actually, the quickest way to become famous nowadays is not by acting in movies but by participating in reality shows.
“I happen to know a guy who runs a film and TV productions company, which produced a program called Creating Idols. The artistes that get selected each year tend to immediately shoot to fame. Miss Jenny, if you have a background in singing and dancing, I can guarantee that you will rise to fame and become a household name in the country within six months!”
Elle was surprised and flattered. “I do! I can sing and dance!”
Jordan was puzzled because he didn’t expect Lauren’s father to be so enthusiastic as to help him out. It seemed that the Howards also wanted to show off their power in front of Jesse.
“Thank you,” Jordan thanked Stefan.
Stefan waved his hand and said, “We’re already a family, what’s there to thank me for? It’s just a trivial matter.”
The boss of the film company was also there, and Stefan personally took Jenny to see him. After the two people left, Clarice suddenly interjected while staring at Jenny’s graceful back.
“Jordan, your former cousin-in-law is so hot. Have you ever had a thing with her? Otherwise, why do you still want to help her when you no longer have anything to do with the Camdens?”
It was obvious Clarice was trying to say that Jordan had slept with Jenny!
Given that Lauren was present, she felt extremely awkward. However, Jordan wasn’t upset by the veiled accusation. He merely said, “Yeah, my former cousin-in-law has such a good figure, and I feel the difference now. My wife’s face and figure are comparable to my ex-wife, though not on par. But my current sister-in-law is far inferior.”
Clarice had a mediocre figure that was worlds apart from Jenny!
“You… Are you saying that I have a poor figure!?!”
Clarice was astounded.
“Did I say something wrong?” Jordan coldly snorted.
Martin, on the other hand, burst into laughter and raised his wine glass while looking at Jesse.
“Kids just like playing a fool. Let’s drink.”
Jesse smiled. He didn’t harbor any animosity or hostility towards spoiled brats like Clarice who liked talking back to others. However, he harbored a strong animosity towards Brad, who had previously made a cuckold of Jordan!
That caused Brad to be too scared to even sit at this table!
The gaze in Jesse’s eyes alone was enough to frighten Brad to the point of shuddering!
Even Jordan had never made Brad that fearsome before. The imposing presence made Brad feel that Jesse was a much more powerful existence than Jordan!
…
The wedding soon ended smoothly and it was extremely dramatic.
However, it had fortunately come to a successful end.
At ten o’clock in the evening, Jordan and Lauren headed back to Lauren’s bungalow in a car.
There were wedding decorations all over the house, on the corners, windows, and doors, adding a touch of celebratory joy.
It was the night of Jordan and Lauren’s wedding. To keep Chloe from playing a fool and causing trouble, the maid Felicia even took her to live with Lauren’s parents to leave Jordan and Lauren alone in the bungalow.
Upon arriving home, Lauren took a shower, removed her makeup, and put on a silk nightgown, which would be an absolute temptation for any man. She took care in gently applying skincare products to make herself smell good.
“Honey, it’s been a long day. Get on the bed and get some rest.”
However, Jordan remained in his seat without moving at all.
“Lauren, go to bed first, I’m not sleepy yet.”
It wasn’t that Jordan wasn’t sleepy but rather, he didn’t want to sleep with Lauren! All he could think about was the gift from Victoria and the congratulatory message to congratulate him on getting married!
He was still in love with Victoria, so how could he sleep with another woman?
“Oh.”
Lauren laid down to get some rest, filled with disappointment.
At midnight, Jordan got on the bed, thinking that Lauren must have already fallen asleep. However, to Jordan’s surprise, Lauren grabbed his hand as soon as he lay down.
“Honey.”
Lauren’s gentle voice was heartbreaking..
Chapter 406
It was dead silent in the pitch dark room.
Jordan said gently, “Lauren, you… you’re still awake?”
Lauren turned sideways to face Jordan.
“Honey, you know what? I’ve waited three whole years for this day. Often I’ve fantasized about being your wife. Perhaps even every day. My dream was to marry you. I don’t dare to beg you to love me as much as you love Victoria and I don’t ask for much either. I just want to be like an ordinary woman who leads a normal life and has a loving husband.
“Honey, please don’t neglect me, okay?”
Lauren wasn’t a fool and she could obviously tell that Jordan had been deliberately neglecting her for the last two hours.
Jordan was put in a difficult spot. “Lauren…”
Lauren said pitifully, “Honey, I’ve never experienced the joy of being a woman in my life. I’m already 26 years old, I don’t want to wait until I’m 30…”
Jordan was both shocked and sympathetic towards Lauren. He was shocked that Lauren’s only sexual encounter was when he slept with her in Syria four years ago.
Besides, that wasn’t a pleasant memory for Lauren but an agonizing one.
Since then… To think that she hadn’t slept with a single man before. It came as a surprise to Jordan.
It was indeed quite pitiful for a woman who was almost 30 years old. After all, beautiful women like Lauren usually had lots of suitors.
Jordan sighed in self-reproach, knowing that he was the cause of Lauren’s current plight. Since he had married Lauren, the only thing he could do now was to make her happy. He had to do so even if it was only for a short period of time.
Jordan gently caressed Lauren’s hair in the dark and let his lips roam down as he kissed her…
…
At this moment, it suddenly began pouring amidst thunderclaps.
On the other hand, Brad went to Martin’s home and they began chatting with each other in the night. Brad was surprised by Jesse’s aura and frightened by the look in his eyes.
Hence, when he arrived at Martin’s place, Brad gave him a suggestion.
“Grandpa, haven’t you always wanted to know the secrets of the Steeles? Jesse is already in his thirties, he definitely already knows what they are! We can’t lose this opportunity. He finally came to our turf so why don’t we just nab him and force him to confess!?!”
Brad always felt that Jesse would seek revenge on him for making him a cuckold so he wanted to make the first move.
With a shake of his head, Martin only said, “What a naive child. Do you think that Jesse came alone?”
Brad said indignantly, “Hmph, even if he has connections in the country, he is no match for us!”
Martin sighed and said, “Son, do you know where he is now and who he’s with?”
Brad shook his head.
Martin said, “The British royal family! He came here with the prince and princess! Are you out of your mind? How dare you think of harming Jesse Steele?”
Brad then pounded his chest and exclaimed, “Damn it, that Jesse really is something!”
Martin sat in his chair and said with a smile, “Now that Lauren and Jordan are married, we’re considered the Steeles’ in-laws and we can clearly use Lauren to get some news. Why do we have to fall out with them? Brad, from now on, you should also treat Jordan better. He’s your brother-in-law now after all.”
Brad looked at his injured leg and humphed angrily. “I’m not going to acknowledge him! I’m at loggerheads with him!”
Without saying another word, Martin only smiled.
…
By the time Lauren woke up in Jordan’s arms again the next day, it was already past 10 am.
In fact, Jordan woke up very early and he merely didn’t want to move his body because he didn’t want to wake her up.
Lauren opened her eyes and smiled shyly with bliss when she saw Jordan.
As Jordan looked at Lauren who was sleeping, he said with a smile, “Lazy bum, are you finally awake? It’s almost 11 am.”
“Huh? It’s already 11 am?”
Lauren got a great shock too because she usually woke up at six or seven in the morning.
Jordan looked at the gorgeous Lauren and said, “It’s okay, anyway, Chloe is at Marissa’s place anyway. You can sleep in if you’re tired.”
Lauren recalled what happened last night and suddenly felt embarrassed. She was a girl and yet, she actually took the initiative to say those things…
“Um… I’ll get up after you do.”
Lauren was a little shy. It was the first time Jordan had seen such a shy girl, so he got up first to wash up. Afterward, when Lauren finished washing up and putting on her makeup, it was already close to noon.
Once they were ready to go, the two drove to Lauren’s parents’ place to have lunch. novelbin
“Dad! Mom!”
With the gifts in hand, Jordan greeted Lauren’s parents.
“Oh, you’re here, Jordan. Come on in. It’s pouring heavily outside. You didn’t get caught in the rain, did you?”
Stefan greeted them with a smile. He was rather amicable. However, Marissa was different. She glanced at Jordan and ignored him.
“Chloe!”
“Mommy!”
As soon as Lauren came in, she went to Chloe.
Lauren pulled the girl into a hug and asked, “Chloe, were you obedient when you stayed here last night?”
Chloe nodded. “Mommy, where’s my little brother?”
Lauren asked in bewilderment, “What little brother?”
Chloe said, “Felicia said that you two gave birth to my little brother last night. I want a little brother.”
Lauren couldn’t help but laugh and say, “Silly baby, it won’t be so quick. Even if you want a younger sibling, you have to wait till next year for him or her to be born.”
When Lauren’s family looked at her, they felt that she was a little different. She had become bubblier and there was a blissful look on her face. Her parents could tell that she was very happy now.
Lauren’s parents were not the only ones around. Brad and Hailey happened to be there too.
Hailey walked in through the door while pushing the stroller along. She said, “You don’t have to wait till next year. You’ve got a little brother.”
Afterward, she glanced at Jordan and said, “They’re both your kids. Aren’t you going to introduce him to your daughter?”
Although Jordan was displeased at the sight of Hailey, he knew that she was right. It was a fact that Chloe was Jordan’s child, as was Hailey’s son. Jordan hoped that they could get along harmoniously and support each other.
Taking Chloe’s hand, Jordan led her to the two babies. Pointing at the baby boy, he said, “This is your brother.”
Chloe looked at the boy with surprise written all over her face. “Wow, Daddy, you and Mommy gave birth to a little brother so soon!”
Everyone burst into laughter because they were amused by Chloe.
Rendered speechless, Hailey didn’t want to argue with a four-year-old girl.
“Jordan, come here, I have something to ask you.”
Hailey brought Jordan to the second floor and asked as soon as he came up.
Did you sleep with Lauren… yesterday?”
Jordan laughed and asked, “Nonsense. We’ve already registered our marriage and received the marriage certificate. Of course, we’ve already slept with each other. What are you asking this question for? Does it matter to you?”
Hailey was clearly displeased.. “Scumbag! A few days ago, you were head-over-heels in love with Victoria and now you’re sleeping with another woman in the blink of an eye. Don’t you think you’re letting Victoria down!?!”
Chapter 407
Jordan was speechless for a while.
“What does it have to do with you whether I’m letting Victoria down or not? Are you affected in any way? Don’t pretend to be on good terms with Victoria in front of me. You’ve been against her for more than a day or two!”
While anyone had the right to scold Jordan for letting Victoria down, the only person who didn’t have the right to do so was Hailey.
Jordan still remembered how she had snatched away Victoria’s office and called her an unscrupulous vixen.
“Yes, I used to hate Victoria in the past but now, I think she’s just as pitiful as I am! We’ve both been cheated out of our feelings by you, jerk! You’re always putting on airs and despising my love for money in that condescending manner of yours. You pretend like love has nothing to do with money or status.
“And what happened in the end? The Steeles look down on me because I’m from a third-tier family, so you didn’t choose me. You didn’t choose Victoria either because her parents have passed away and she’s homeless.
“In the end, you chose the famous Howards because they can help you! You abandoned Victoria for the sake of your own interests and profits and chose to marry into the Howards instead. Who are you to criticize me!?!”
Jordan was infuriated by Hailey for accusing him of marrying Lauren for the sake of benefits.
Indeed, the Howards were more powerful than the Steeles. Once he married Lauren, Jordan would never have to worry about things like having his assets frozen or being investigated by the police.
However, Jordan had never wanted to use the Howards for clout!
Jordan snapped furiously, “Bullshit! Don’t make me sound like you! I’m warning you, take the child back to Orlando immediately. Don’t loiter around in the Howards’ home anymore!”
Hailey humphed coldly and retorted, “Why should I leave? Your mother-in-law personally invited me to stay at the Howards’ place and your in-laws like me a lot!”
Seeing how smug Hailey was, Jordan couldn’t help but reach his hand out to poke her head.
“You stupid pig. You’ve already been divorced thrice and you’re still fantasizing about marrying into a wealthy family? The Howards will only get married for the sake of benefits and their marriage partners must be of a compatible background. It’s definitely impossible for you to marry into the Howards.
“The reason that Marissa kept you behind is to use you to anger me because I broke her son’s legs. That’s why she keeps hating me and being jealous of me. Don’t you understand?”
Hailey stomped her feet in anger. “Don’t poke me with your finger! What do you care if I’m willing to be used? I’m going to stay, I’m going to kill you, you scumbag!”
As she said that, Hailey slapped Jordan’s body hard twice before flouncing off in exasperation.
Looking at the familiar back, Jordan couldn’t help but sigh with emotion.
“Hailey, oh, Hailey, what have I done to you in my last life to have you pester me like a ghost in this life!?!”
After washing his hands, Jordan made his way downstairs for breakfast.
Jordan, Lauren, and Hailey sat at the same dining table. The two of them were Jordan’s current wife and ex-wife respectively, and they were both top beauties in the country.
The atmosphere at the table became rather strange.
Hailey was clearly comparing herself to Lauren, both in terms of table manners and mannerisms.
Stefan, who was sitting in the main seat, looked at Lauren and Hailey on the left and right and couldn’t help but speak up.
“Actually, there’s really a bit of a resemblance between Hailey and Lauren. If only Hailey was my daughter too.”
Marissa laughed and said, “Yes, I felt like I was looking at my own daughter when I met Hailey for the first time.”
Hailey was overjoyed to hear that. “Sir, Ma’am, I felt a sense of closeness to you two when I met you for the first time. It feels as if you two are my parents!”
Despite letting out a cold humph, Jordan otherwise remained silent. However, looking at the gorgeous Hailey and Lauren, Jordan couldn’t help but feel lucky.
“I’ve married the most beautiful women in the country.”
At this moment, Stefan suddenly asked, “Jordan, I’d like to invite your brother over for dinner tonight. Is he available?”
Jordan took out his phone and said, “I’ll ask him.” novelbin
Jordan sent a text to Jesse, who soon replied.
Jordan said to Stefan, “My brother has to accompany the prince for dinner tonight, I’m afraid he won’t be able to make it.”
Stefan smiled, knowing that Jesse was accompanying the British royal family. “It’s okay, hosting the prince is more important.”
On the other hand, Brad suddenly started singing in disdain. Hailey and Marissa couldn’t help but burst into laughter. However, Lauren could tell that her brother was being sarcastic and hence did not laugh.
Besides, Jordan hadn’t heard that song before so he didn’t know what Brad was trying to imply.
“Hahahaha…”
“A bunch of lunatics.”
Jordan ignored him and instead, continued to eat to replenish his energy after an exhausting night.
Soon, it was nine in the evening and Jordan had just finished dinner. He initially wanted to have dinner before going home. However, he didn’t expect the rain to get even heavier.
Seeing his predicament, Stefan said, “Jordan, it’s raining very heavily outside and it’s not safe for you to drive. Don’t go home tonight. Just stay here for the night. Lauren’s room is on the second floor.”
“Sure.”
There was no reason to refuse as Jordan wasn’t against the idea of staying at his in-laws’ house. However, the fact that Hailey was here made him feel extremely uncomfortable!
Hailey and Brad’s room was also on the second floor, right across from Jordan’s and Lauren’s room!
After tucking his daughter, Chloe, in bed, Jordan returned to his own room.
By 11 pm, everyone returned to their rooms to sleep. However, there were two knocks on the door of Jordan’s and Lauren’s room.
Jordan and Lauren looked at each other, and when Jordan saw that Lauren was going to bed, he said, “I’ll go and open the door.”
He opened the door, only to see that it was Hailey!
“What’s the matter?”
Hailey, who was clad in Chanel pajamas and still wearing the scent that Jordan was most familiar with, said, “I’m looking for you guys to borrow something.”
“What do you mean?” Jordan asked.
Hailey said, “The thing you gotta use at night. We need it too but we didn’t buy any.”
Jordan said in puzzlement, “What nonsense are you babbling?”
As soon as he finished speaking, Jordan realized what Hailey wanted to borrow.
Jordan was exasperated. “Hailey Camden, are you deliberately trying to disgust me? Don’t try to borrow anything from me, we don’t have any!”
After saying that, he closed the door furiously.
“What a petty miser!” Hailey left angrily.
After coming back, Lauren immediately went forth to comfort Jordan when she saw how furious he was.
“Honey, what’s wrong? What did Hailey come to borrow?”
Jordan said angrily, “She wasn’t here to borrow anything but to deliberately piss me off!”
Lauren kept stroking Jordan’s back and spoke to him comfortingly. “I’m sorry, Honey. It’s all my mom’s fault for deliberately letting Hailey stay behind to anger you. We’ll leave tomorrow and not live here anymore, okay?”
“Okay,” Jordan said while holding onto Lauren’s hand.
He was glad that his wife understood him so well and spared a thought for him in everything!
Chapter 408
It seemed that every woman he met after divorcing Hailey was very kind and understanding.
Lauren said gently, “It’s getting late. Let’s… go to bed earlier.”
“Okay.”
Jordan could tell that Lauren was shy and surprised. The first time he saw Lauren, he thought she was an aloof and cold goddess. He had never expected that she would become so clingy after marrying him.
Soon, the lights in Jordan’s and Lauren’s room were switched off. On the other hand, the lights in Brad and Hailey’s room remained lit.
About 40 minutes later, the light in Jordan’s and Lauren’s room came back on. On the contrary, the lights in Brad and Hailey’s room went out at this moment.
Jordan switched on the lights, walked out of the room, and walked towards the bathroom on the second floor of the villa to wash up.
Coincidentally, Hailey was holding her phone in her right hand and using the flashlight function of her phone as she walked to the bathroom.
The two of them happened to bump into each other.
At this moment, it was almost midnight. Jordan looked at Hailey, who was dressed in only a pink tank top and shorts.
He was extremely careful as if he had just done something terrible.
Jordan felt really unlucky because he didn’t expect to have run into her at such a juncture. It just so happened that the two of them wanted to use the bathroom at this moment. As a man, he naturally wouldn’t vie with her.
He said, “Go ahead, I’ll go downstairs to take a bath.”
After saying that, he rolled his eyes at Hailey and then got ready to leave.
“Hold it right there!”
Hailey suddenly called out to Jordan and asked, “Jordan, what’s up with that look in your eyes?”
“What look?” Jordan asked.
Hailey humphed coldly and exclaimed, “You’re clearly in disdain towards me! I was married to you for three years. Why wouldn’t I be able to tell?”
Jordan didn’t deny it. “That’s right, I really dislike you and I look down on you! I just want to throw up at the thought of the fact that you used to be my wife and the woman I used to love the most!
“You’ve become more and more cheap and shameless. I used to treat you like the most noble and the purest woman in the world. Even though we’ve been married for three years, you wouldn’t even let me get intimate with you but I didn’t have any resentment towards you!
“On the contrary, that made me feel that you’re very noble, unlike other women! But what about now? You sleep with just anyone! Now, I really feel that I was a fool in those three years!”
Hailey was infuriated to have been insulted and despised by Jordan, which made her feel terribly ashamed!
Smack!
Hailey slapped him and exclaimed, “You’re not allowed to say that about me!”
‘Hah, you have the guts to do it but you won’t let others talk about it?’
Smack!
Jordan also slapped her back as he roared, “You have no right to hit me now! Even if you’re really together with Brad now, I’m still your brother-in-law! Besides, he’s just toying with you and he definitely won’t marry you!”
The slap from Jordan hurt Hailey physically, as well as her self-esteem. She glowered at him and she said angrily, “Jordan Steele, you’re a scumbag. So you’re allowed to be with other women but you won’t let me date another man, huh? Fine, I’ll let you embarrass yourself in front of your parents-in- law!”
After saying that, Hailey suddenly shouted in the bathroom.
“Ah! Help! Brad, come and save me! Jordan, what are you doing? Don’t touch me, let go of me! Aunt Marissa, Uncle Stefan, quickly come save me!”
Hailey said while ripping her clothes and hair.
Jordan was shocked. ‘What is Hailey Camden trying to do!?!’
It was bright early in the morning so it was dead silent and the slightest movement could be heard very clearly.
Besides, Hailey had just yelled so loudly.
Jordan immediately covered Hailey’s mouth and exclaimed, “Bitch, stop yelling!”
However, Hailey insisted on slandering Jordan as she bit his hand hard and continued yelling loudly.
Soon, Lauren put on her clothes and came out of the room while Brad wheeled himself out of his room in the electric wheelchair. On the other hand, Stefan and Marissa too, quickly came down from the bedroom on the third floor to go downstairs to check on the situation.
The four of them came to the bathroom on the 2nd floor, only to see that Jordan and Hailey were both scantily clad.
Besides, Hailey’s hair was messy and her eyes were stained with tears, as if something had really happened.
When Hailey saw Marissa walking over, she moved over immediately too.
“Aunt Marissa, you have to speak up for me. I just came to the bathroom and Jordan actually… tried to…” novelbin
Brad was so furious that his face was flushed too. “Jordan Steele, you scoundrel, you’ve just married Lauren and you’re already thinking of cheating on her? Are you human at all?!”
Jordan hated being wronged by others, especially women like Hailey, and he bellowed at Hailey again, “Ridiculous! I feel repulsed by the mere sight of you. How can I possibly take liberties with you!?!”
However, Marissa didn’t believe Jordan.
She walked up to Jordan, raised her arm, and gave him a hard slap.
Smack!
Marissa was enraged. “Jordan! You are already married to Lauren and you should no longer have anything to do with your ex-wife! Hailey is now your brother-in-law’s girlfriend. How can you take liberties with her?!
“I know what it is. You must be feeling cynical about what Brad did to you in the past so you’re trying to get back at him in the same manner, huh? You’ve already shot Brad in the leg and you want to torture him again now, huh!?”
Jordan was speechless. “No!”
Lauren hurriedly stood in front of Jordan and said, “Mom, how can you hit someone when you haven’t gotten to the bottom of everything? I believe Jordan isn’t such a person.”
“You…”
Marissa was just about to speak when Stefan suddenly thundered out, “That’s enough! All of you, shut up and go back to your rooms. You’re not allowed to come out again!”
Stefan had always been gentle and refined as a father, and he rarely lost his temper.
Once they heard his words, no one dared to say anything else and went back to their rooms. When Marissa and Stefan returned to their room on the third floor, Stefan questioned Marissa.
“Do you really believe what Hailey said? Hailey is indeed pretty and Jordan might still have lingering feelings for her. But Jordan is a promising young man from a wealthy family and no matter how much he likes her, he couldn’t have taken liberties with her in the bathroom of his parents-in-law’s house, right?”
Marissa humphed coldly and said, “Of course I know Hailey Camden was lying. I was just doing that on purpose because I wanted to hit him and take it out on him for Brad!” Your son has been crippled and yet you’re still laughing and joking all day long with the culprit who caused him to end up that way. Do you treat Brad as your son at all? Or do you suspect that I have done something wrong to you and Brad is not your real son?”
Stefan said helplessly, “Oh, what are you saying? Honey, Brad may have been wrong about this but just think about how powerful the Steeles are. Fortunately, Jordan has quite a good character and he listens to advice. If it were either of his brothers, what do you think would happen if their wives cheated on them?”
Marissa gave it some thought and recalled how imposing Jesse was.
“Maybe… Brad would have died!”
Chapter 409
Stefan also very much agreed with Marissa’s assumption. It was true that Jordan’s elder brother seemed to be simple and non-ambitious as he was even willing to give the power and assets he had to Jordan.
However, Stefan knew that the descendants of the Steeles had all been through tough trials and tests so none of them were silly and simple-minded.
This alone made Stefan feel that Jesse was unfathomable!
After Jordan and Lauren returned to the room, Jordan was extremely awkward when facing her. He didn’t want Lauren to misunderstand that he treated marriage as child’s play.
“Lauren, don’t listen to Hailey’s nonsense. I didn’t touch her at all and she was the one who tried to frame me.”
However, to his surprise, Lauren smiled.
“Honey, you don’t need to explain to me, I definitely believe you.”
“Lauren…”
Jordan did not expect Lauren to trust him that much and thus, was extremely touched.
..
It was still pouring the next morning, so Jordan and Lauren left together with Chloe without bidding goodbye to Lauren’s parents.
They didn’t even eat breakfast.
It was Lauren who suggested it because she knew that Jordan did not want to see Hailey at breakfast.
Lauren was always sparing a thought for Jordan and prioritizing him. For the sake of Jordan, she could forgo all etiquette, even toward her parents.
What man wouldn’t want to marry such a wife!?!
On the way back, Chloe dozed off as soon as she got in the car because she had gotten up too early after being woken up before she had enough sleep.
Lauren then asked Jordan, “Honey, should we give Chloe a younger brother or sister?”
They had already slept with each other for two consecutive days so she reckoned that they would probably continue being in a loving relationship in the future.
Hence, Lauren thought of giving Jordan another child.
On the other hand, Jordan felt like he was put in a difficult spot. He had indeed started to like Lauren more and more, but he had never forgotten Victoria.
He also didn’t forget that he married Lauren to find out Victoria’s whereabouts!
While driving, Jordan said, “There’s no rush. If you get pregnant, you can’t go anywhere because you can only stay at home to nurse the pregnancy. We just got married, I still want to take you around the world to have lots of fun.”
Lauren really liked that excuse because she also wanted to travel around the world with Jordan.
“Okay, okay, fine! But you have to take responsibility if I accidentally get pregnant when we’re traveling,” Lauren said while chuckling.
Jordan smiled and said, “I will take responsibility, don’t worry.”
Just like that, another day passed.
At 6:30 the next morning, Jordan slowly opened his eyes, only to find that Lauren was no longer beside him. He turned around to see that Lauren had already put on makeup and a beautiful white dress.
She looked extremely elegant, especially after wearing the most expensive pair of earrings in the world that Jordan gave her!
Jordan jokingly asked, “Honey, you’re wearing such a beautiful dress bright early in the morning. Are you going on a date with some hunk?”
At that moment, Lauren was putting on her earrings in front of the mirror. Seeing that Jordan was awake, she said smilingly, “Honey, you’re awake. Did you forget? Jesse and Yumi asked us out for breakfast this morning.”
While saying that, Lauren sat down on the edge of the bed. The faint scent of Hermes Orange Starlight perfume immediately wafted up to his nose.
Jordan couldn’t help but hold Lauren’s slender wrist. The couple was almost inseparable these days.
With a laugh, Jordan said, “We’re just going to meet my brother and sister-in-law. Why bother dressing up in such formal wear? We are a family, you can just dress normally.”
Lauren said, “How can I do that? I heard that your brother and sister-in-law are staying with the British royal family. In case we meet, wouldn’t I seem too rude if I’m dressed too casually?”
Only then did Jordan understand why Lauren was dressed so formally.
Indeed, people from notable families did attach great importance to etiquette when meeting guests.
At this moment, Jordan suddenly noticed that Lauren had already put on her makeup but she didn’t put on any lipstick.
“Honey, you seem to have applied foundation and everything else except lipstick,” Jordan reminded. novelbin
However, Lauren didn’t seem to have panicked at all. Instead, she looked really shy. “I… I didn’t forget.”
Jordan smiled and suddenly understood why Lauren had deliberately left out her lipstick.
It turned out that she wanted a morning kiss!
‘Hah, women! It turns out that Lauren, who has always been pure and simple, is such a scheming girl!’
Jordan pretended not to understand what she was driving out and hurriedly got out of bed. He frantically said, “We’re running late. I’ll hurry and wash up so we can leave soon.”
“Wait a minute, Honey! Ugh!”
Lauren tugged at Jordan’s shirt, but Jordan walked away directly, making her so furious that she stomped her feet.
Jordan was overjoyed. He initially thought that after getting married to Lauren, the two would keep a certain distance from each other.
To his surprise, their relationship progressed very quickly. In just three days, they had already become so close that they could tease each other and joke around without any awkwardness.
The rain had already stopped today and after the couple dressed up, they drove to the hotel where Jesse and Yumi were.
The hotel that Jesse stayed in was usually the venue used to receive important foreign guests, such as dignitaries, royal families, famous figures, scientists and so on. There was no way for ordinary people to get in.
When Jordan and Lauren entered, they had to undergo a security frisk. First, they were scanned by the machine before being frisked by the security personnel. There was double security.
Of course, the security officers who carried out the inspection were of mixed gender, so that each guest would be searched by an officer of the same sex.
However, Jordan surprisingly felt a little jealous even when watching a woman touch Lauren’s body.
‘Geez, surely I haven’t really fallen in love with Lauren, right? I actually got jealous because of that! It shouldn’t be so quick!’
Real feelings might develop over a long period of time. Jordan and Lauren had only been married for three days but why did he have such strong feelings for her?
Jordan had studied psychology, so he did not need to rely on others to analyze his feelings as he began to do so himself.
‘I think the reason that I took a liking to Lauren so quickly is that Lauren and Hailey are very similar to each other! Both of them are beautiful, and I used to like Hailey a lot, but Hailey doesn’t deserve to be loved so deeply by me.
‘On the other hand, Lauren is not only as pretty as Hailey, she also has the virtues that many women don’t. She is kind, loyal, devoted, and understanding. I guess it can be said that she has all of Hailey’s advantages and none of her flaws!’
After a careful analysis, Jordan felt that it probably wouldn’t take long for him to completely fall in love with such a perfect woman.
‘Victoria, please come back quickly…’
Jordan could only pray to himself that way. Otherwise, he really couldn’t be certain.
‘Will I be unable to leave Lauren when Victoria appears one day!?’
“Jesse! Emma!”
Jordan and Lauren immediately spotted Jesse and Yumi when they reached the hotel restaurant.
Chapter 410
Jesse and Yumi were having breakfast in the public dining area, dressed in appropriate attire for the setting. There were not many people here as most of them were foreigners.
“Go and help yourselves to some food.”
Yumi smiled at the two. The breakfast was buffet-style and the patrons didn’t need to present a ticket to dine there. Anyone who could enter the hotel would be free to choose from a plethora of hundreds and even thousands of delicacies.
Lauren was already one step ahead and went to pick the food. Although Jordan also wanted to go with her, Jesse had already stood up and walked over at this moment.
Jesse said, “Jordan, come upstairs with me to get something. We’ll come back again to eat afterward.”
“Oh.”
Jordan didn’t say anything and instead, walked out with Jesse.
When he reached the elevator, Jordan asked, “Jesse, nothing happened in DC the past few days, right?”
Jesse shook his head. “It’s okay, I’m here with the prince and the princess for some business matters and private matters too. The Howards wouldn’t dare to do anything to me.”
Swiping his card, Jesse entered the room but he didn’t seem to be looking for anything in particular. Jordan could tell that Jesse had deliberately called him to come upstairs so that he could have a word with him alone.
“Jordan, I’m leaving tonight.”
Jordan was a little surprised. “You’re leaving tonight? Don’t you want to stay for a few more days? Lauren’s parents and grandfather would like to have a meal with you again.”
Jesse shook his head with a solemn expression. “I actually took a great risk in coming here. I can’t stay here for long.”
Jordan nodded, understanding that the Steeles’ current situation was indeed at a very tricky stage.
Continuing, Jesse said with a stern expression, “Before I leave, there are a few things that I want to tell you. After the last few days of scouting, I was able to find out where Jamie is.”
“Where’s Jamie now?” Jamie asked curiously.
Jesse shook his head and said, “I don’t know, but he came to DC some time ago and he even took Victoria with him.”
Jamie was immediately stunned. “Jesse… What did you say? Did you say that Victoria was taken away?” novelbin
Jordan had always thought that the Howards had kept Victoria captive to force him to marry Lauren!
In response, Jesse took out a photo from a handbag. It looked like it had just been printed out.
“Look, here is the photo taken by the surveillance camera at the airport that day.”
Jordan carefully looked at the photo of the two of them.
However, based on their figures and the look in their eyes, Jordan was 100% sure that they were Jamie and Victoria!
In fact, Victoria was wearing the same dress as she did on the day that they broke up!
“There’s no mistake, this is Victoria!”
Jordan was extremely excited. This was the first time he had ever gotten any information about Victoria’s whereabouts since she went missing for no reason!
At this moment, Jordan also realized that Jesse’s connections were much stronger than his. He had checked for such a long time but he still hadn’t discovered any of Victoria’s whereabouts.
However, Jesse had only been here for three days and yet, he had already found a photo of Victoria and Jamie. Besides, it had been quite a long time since she went missing.
The longer it had been since a matter has passed, the more difficult it is to investigate it.
In fact, Jesse had also gone through a trial about seven or eight years ago. Hence, he had his own network of connections and henchmen here.
However, Jesse had always been a very private person. To the point that even Jordan, his brother, didn’t know whose Jesse’s henchmen were, let alone outsiders.
With the photo in hand, Jordan asked continuously, “Why did Jamie take Victoria away!?!”
“Ah.”
At this moment, Jesse surprisingly lowered his head and sighed, as if he was having a hard time trying to speak.
Given how much Jordan loved Victoria, how could he stand not knowing the answer?
He grabbed Jesse’s clothes and asked loudly, “Jesse, do you know something? Quickly, tell me!”
Seemingly put in a spot, Jesse said, “Jordan, you and I grew up together with Jamie. Now that we’re adults, we may go through long periods without contacting each other or seeing each other. But I think
our brotherhood has never vanished.”
Jordan thought so too. The three of them had always been close and their relationship was much better than most brothers of ordinary families!
Jesse said, “But in the end, Jamie and I are not born to the same mother. We might treat him as our biological brother but he might not treat us as his brothers. I’ve always felt that he harbors a strong animosity towards the two of us.”
“What?”
Jordan was stunned. ‘Why would Jamie…’
Jesse said, “Jordan, think about it carefully. He sent Lauren to you during your battlefield training. Do you think it was a coincidence or a deliberate act of his? There are countless beautiful women in the country. Of all women, why did he have to pick one from a powerful family like the Howards?”
Actually, Jordan had also thought about that question and felt that it was definitely not a coincidence that Jamie had sent Lauren to him!
Lauren may be gorgeous but she was not the only beauty around. Besides, there was also Hailey, who was from a third-tier family and wasn’t valued by her grandmother.
It would be fun if he had given Hailey to Jordan and let him toy with her.
After the deed was done, he wouldn’t be hunted down by the Camdens either.
Jesse asked, “Did the Howards take revenge on you because of what happened between you and Lauren? Was your life in danger at some point too?”
Jordan nodded.
Brad had deliberately bribed Hailey with money to seek justice for Lauren who had been violated by Jordan. He caused Jordan to end up having one of his twin children being fathered by another man, which left Jordan on the edge of collapsing in the end.
After that, Jordan broke into the Howards’ home.
If it wasn’t for the UFO-shaped aircraft that he brought and hid nearby, he would have already been killed by the Howards!
Jamie was the cause of it all!
If Jamie hadn’t taken Lauren away and given her to Jordan, these nonsensical things wouldn’t have happened at all!
Jesse continued, “Although I don’t want to think of my brother like this, after piecing things together… I can only deduce that Jamie did this on purpose, just to borrow the power of the Howards to kill you!”
Jordan was so appalled that he subconsciously took a step back and asked, “What? Jamie wants to kill me!?!”
Jordan couldn’t believe this fact at all!
All along, Jamie had been very good to him and he would often pick the most beautiful women for him and send him the best food and gifts in the world.
‘Could this all be an illusion?’
Jordan did not dare to believe his ears at all. “Why did he do that? We might not be born to the same mother but there’s no need for him to kill me either! The Steeles have so many assets, which are enough for all seven of us to share equally and enjoy for the rest of our lives. There’s no reason for him to do this just to fight for a greater share of the assets!”
After a moment of silence, Jesse said, “It’s not for the sake of money but the family’s secret!”
The family secret?
What exactly is the secret that would be revealed to them only after they completed all the trials given by the family!?!
Could it be something that’s worth more than their assets of over a hundred billion dollars!?!
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