Jason, however, remained perplexed, scratching his head as if sensing an incongruity. Had he misspoken? He thought sharing the news of the new drugs would delight Susan.This diverged from his expectations, and not only did she withhold a smile, but cautioned him to remain well-behaved.What mysterious thoughts occupied the feminine mind?Jason's bewilderment deepened, genuinely failing to perceive the intimate undertones. Having secured a shared bed was challenging enough; how could he fathom such passion from the outset? He remained oblivious to the nuances.Meanwhile, Susan's flushed cheeks burned as she faced away, her breathing growing rapid, her heart pounding like a startled fawn. Every stir from behind heightened her trepidation and yearning, coupled with overwhelming shyness.Though three years married, this would be their first time. She felt akin to an enamored young couple."They say the first time is painful. Am I truly ready to give myself to him? After all, I am indebte

He believed in Lawrence's capabilities, for though unfamiliar with Joseph Rogers' prowess, sans underhanded tactics, a direct duel favored not the challenger. The true crucible lay in the unmasking of their respective trump cards...Amidst the thunderous challenge, a towering silhouette ascended the arena. This figure, lean and sharp-eyed, regarded the familiar Lawrence with a sinister sneer. "I never imagined you would live to see this day of retribution.""Yet it has been five years. Such trivialities should have faded into the past, Mr. Lawrence. No need for this endless fixation." "If you desire reconciliation, we could jointly reign over Emerald City!"Lawrence's rage smoldered at the dismissive tone, murderous intent roiling within as he faced the reappearance of Joseph Rogers after half a decade's absence. How could that callous remark of "five years" encapsulate the suffering endured, the prime of Natalie's life confined to a wheelchair through no fault of her own? An unforg

Yet who could have foreseen enraging the formidable 'King' himself, that Lawrence would prove a mere subordinate under his dominion?Accursed folly - if only he could strangle the life from Joseph Rogers tenfold over!Within the arena, the combatants' furious roars intermingled with the clamor of clashing bodies and visceral sprays of sweat and blood. Yet Joseph Rogers' evident inferiority drove his desperate offensive as furtive glances scanned the viewing platforms.Where was the signal from the venerable Mr. Howard?Today's spectacle served to bait ulterior players, luring Lawrence's ruinous resurgence that they might crush all adversaries underfoot. Yet Joseph Rogers could never have fathomed the extent of his reverence toward the prostrated Wayne Howard, that same 'Mr. Howard' now beseeching Jason to stay his noble hand and spare his life.To witness such a sight would surely inflict mortal terror.Jason's glacial stare met Wayne Howard's abject pleadings. Under ordinary circums

This harrowing prospect prompted Lawrence to whirl towards the viewing platforms in desperation, only to find his frantic gaze met by Jason's impassive countenance. As their eyes locked, a subtle nod proffered reassurance. Tension drained from Lawrence's form as he exhaled - with Mr. Gray's presence, all would be well. It seemed victory had indeed been secured.Joseph Rogers, too, found himself ensnared by Jason's unflinching regard, his pallor shifting corpse-like as unspoken dread congealed within. Though unacquainted, he could deduce Lord Wayne Howard's dire straits - else he would not have remained unmoved amidst such grievous peril. His eyes met Lawrence's once more, flinching at the gleam of murderous intent burning within that frigid sneer. Before retaliatory force could be unleashed, Joseph Rogers' shrill cry pierced the stillness."I concede defeat! No more, I yield!"In the throes of mortal peril, what significance could vanity retain? Joseph Rogers always was a contemp

"Oh? Who might that be?" Jason's curiosity piqued, for the individual capable of swaying the Cook family's decision could not be insignificant.With anticipation building, Emily revealed, "This person holds immense prestige, rumored to be a Martial Saint's disciple—a paragon of grace and unparalleled might. Funnily enough, he shares your surname, Gray. Perhaps he's a relative of yours?""Not just me, but scions and heiresses from the Central Area's ten great families will flock to the Emerald City to witness this epic duel. Some households even seek a marital alliance with this Martial Saint's disciple."Of course, she harbored similar aspirations. This was the reason her grandfather had compromised—a Martial Saint's disciple far outshone someone like Edward Reed, leaving him in the dust.Though ignorant of martial arts, Emily yearned to encounter this legendary figure. Her grandfather would undoubtedly approve wholeheartedly. However, she doubted her chances amidst the bevy of beauti