Although Eric downplayed it, Alexander was astonished. He hadn't anticipated Eric having faced off against Ruth, and what astonished him even more was Eric's victory over her.Despite an invitation from the head of the McClains, Eric adamantly declined.Alexander cleared his throat and asked, "Eric, do you know the standing of the McClains in King City?""Yes," Eric replied. "I've heard people claim they are a top-tier family, much like the Watsons. They surpass even the Montgomerys and Hernandezes in strength."Alexander was at a loss of words. It seemed Eric was privy to everything, likely with his reasons for refusing the invitation. Respecting this, Alexander chose not to press further.Meanwhile, Sylvia observed a growing interest from women in Eric. First Jessica and now Ruth, each with a more formidable background than the last.Eric's phone interrupted the silence once again. Noticing it was another call from King City, he frowned and picked up.A voice chuckled through
It was not known Eric and Ruth were acquainted.Eric and Sylvia arrived at the luxurious McClain residence. Given Ruth's status in the military, the McClain family was nearly impervious to harm, and few dared to provoke them. Those who did faced unbearable consequences.The driver opened the car door for Eric and Sylvia. Eric furrowed his brow as they stepped out and threw a sudden punch to his side.A tall, burly man over two meters tall was sent flying. That single punch could have killed a cow!"Is this how the McClain family treats their guests?" Eric said coldly as he stepped forward.The burly man didn't back down, charging at Eric. A fierce battle erupted right after they left the car. Sylvia thought it might be a trap set by the McClain family!Eric sneered, side-stepped to dodge the man, and lifted his hand to strike his neck. With a little force, the man lost his balance and fell with a loud thud. However, another person attacked Eric after he defeated the burly man."
The dinner could be described as simple, but the dishes served were all delicacies. Lionel felt it would be improper not to provide such a feast.As everyone took their seats, Lionel glanced around and expressed his dissatisfaction, "Where is Ruth? The guests are all seated, and she's still dawdling?""Sir, Ms. Ruth went out," a trembling maid replied."Nonsense!" Lionel barked.He immediately called Ruth. "We have distinguished guests at home, and you ran off?! You might belong to the Combat Department but are part of the McClain family at home. So, hurry back!"Ruth returned reluctantly, looking sulky.Lionel finally cracked a smile.Sylvia observed the situation, glancing between Eric and Ruth. Did they have some kind of history? However, Eric appeared unfazed by the situation.As the head of a top-tier wealthy family, Lionel seemed to be more easygoing than expected."Mr. Johnson, Mrs. Johnson, inviting you for a meal is hard. I apologize for the unpleasantness earlier!" L
After a few drinks, Lionel's face turned slightly red. He sighed. "We're getting old. The future belongs to you, young people. Mr. Johnson, if the McClain family faces any troubles in the future, please help us deal with them."Before Eric could nod, Ruth irritably said, "Dad, what trouble could our family possibly face?"In her view, the McClains were already powerful, and even families of the same level wouldn't dare provoke them easily."Who can predict the future? Mr. Johnson, will you promise?" Lionel asked.Eric nodded. "Sure."He wanted a good relationship with the McClains. After all, who wouldn't want to be on good terms with them?Lionel laughed heartily. "Let's have another drink!"After a few more drinks, Lionel was getting drunk, surprising the family members who hadn't seen him drink this much in over a decade.It was getting late, and Eric and Sylvia needed to leave.Lionel got up. "Eric, I'll see you off!"Was he really drunk? He staggered as he escorted them
Sylvia empathized with Eric, knowing about his family's struggles since high school. Among their classmates, Eric's family was considered quite poor.Even after Eric started working, he faced challenges with David. It was only when he connected with Sylvia that his fate began to change.Eric's visit to the McClain family proved fruitful. He gained valuable information about the Hernandezes' dynamics from Lionel, empowering him to confront Javier. The realization of his newfound strength surprised him.-The following day, Eric received a call from his lawyer. Astrid was unable to endure more and expressed her willingness to testify against Javier. This marked their first breakthrough since Orion's death.-At prison.Eric met Astrid again. Despite being behind bars, Astrid's treatment was decent, and he had access to cigarettes.Astrid made a proposition to Eric. "I'll testify against Javier, but you must ensure I receive treatment for my leg in prison. I know you have a way. P
What Astrid needed was precisely this kind of assurance. As long as he exposed Javier, the prison authorities would consider such conditions.After organizing the information, he submitted it to the relevant authorities. However, Daniel had been dead for nearly 30 years. Could they still bring Javier to justice?Astrid was determined. In the information he provided, he even specified the poison used to kill Daniel. Despite the three decades that had passed, some residual toxins in the bones, which had not turned into ashes, could still be detected by modern technology. The color of the bones of someone who died from poisoning differed from those who died naturally.Astrid's revelation threw the Hernandez family into chaos. Daniel's grave, which had been untouched for almost 30 years, was dug up. The results mirrored Astrid's description—Daniel had indeed been poisoned.Naturally, Javier tried to proclaim his innocence. Almost 30 years had passed, and some evidence had been lost ove
"Eric! Javier... He's been released!" Grace's voice was filled with disbelief. "What's happening?!" Eric exclaimed.Just yesterday, Javier had been arrested, and even Grace had emphasized the seriousness of his situation. How was it possible for him to be released so swiftly?"Mom! Can you explain? He is accused of murder! Even if the Hernandez family holds influence, they shouldn't be able to interfere in such a serious matter, right?"Eric was apprehensive about the consequences and complications of taking a life entailed. Based on his understanding of the law, he knew that getting away with murder was nearly impossible. So, how was Javier managing it?"Please, come back first," Grace urged. "Your uncle is looking into it, and we still don't know the full situation, but Javier has indeed been released.""Alright."Eric and Sylvia's travel plans were disrupted, prompting their return to the Montgomerys. Alexander had gone to investigate and had yet to return.-Meanwhile,
"Oh, she's still at the airport. She forgot something, so I came back to get it," Kenneth explained."What did she forget? I'll bring it to you, Mr. Johnson," she said, wiping her hands.Kenneth waved his hand. "No need. You can continue with your work." Felicia nodded and resumed her tasks.Kenneth later called for Felicia, "Madam Baresi, could you step outside with me for a moment? I have something to discuss.""Sure," Felicia replied, finishing drying her hands and following Kenneth to the doorway.As soon as they were outside, Kenneth's face turned sinister."Madam Baresi, don't blame me!" he declared, thrusting a dagger into Felicia's abdomen."Mr... Mr. Johnson..." Felicia clutched Kenneth tightly, her voice trembling with realization. "No… You're not Mr. Johnson! Eric would never kill me! You are an imposter."Kenneth pulled out the dagger, his blood-stained hand shaking. It was his first time taking a life, and he was extremely nervous.Felicia desperately grabbed Ke