Over the past years, she may not have stopped hoping.As for Alex, he clearly understands Isabel's current emotions, but he cannot reciprocate her feelings. Therefore, even though he doesn't want to hurt her, he cannot be gentle with her. Being tender and considerate might lead her on, making her continue to hope and unable to let go.That's why he has to appear indifferent, not knowing or understanding her feelings. He hopes that she will realize this and free herself quickly."Alright, let's go inside and have a meal, don't keep everyone waiting."o0oThe next day, Alex went to the company as usual, and Jowley had brought him some information about the houses he had earned and the profiles of all the children at the orphanage.In the private meeting room, Alex sat at the top position, with Isabel and Jowley beside him.First, Alex reviewed the houses that Jowley had found for him. His criteria for choosing a home were that the sellers must have a good history and a clean background.
What Jowley said was incredibly reasonable and agreeable, which also helped Isabel understand and be convinced. This was precisely what Alex intended."I asked Police Chief Jayce to create a fake identity for us, and Jowley, please help me use that fake identity to adopt Cherry. As for the house purchase, you can assist me in setting up a meeting with the owner, and I'll deal with them directly. Isabel, have your assistant buy two burner SIM cards and two second-hand phones. We'll use them during the operation. Also, we'll keep using the old car I bought the other day. Isabel, does that sound okay?"Despite being a true heiress, Isabel grew up in abundance and was pampered by her parents. Thus, with this sudden change, Alex feared she might be disadvantaged and struggle to adapt immediately. However, he couldn't find anyone more suitable than her.On the other hand, Isabel had a contrasting thought; she was excited, yes, genuinely excited. She realized that her current thinking was in
Jessica was deeply shocked by what Isabel said, feeling angry and embarrassed. However, she tried to hide the embarrassment deep inside, pretending it didn't exist and that she had nothing to be ashamed of."Why do you know about this? Why..." Jessica blurted out her thoughts; as soon as she realized it, it was too late. She was angry and surprised that Isabel knew this information and used it to mock her. And she couldn't understand why Isabel knew about it in the first place.What kind of situation was this?Her questioning words confirmed the truth and revealed her genuine emotions. So she quickly shut her mouth, gritted her teeth, and decided she would not sign this contract."Why should I know about it? This is something you should have known, right? Why are you asking me? Alright, Jessica, will you sign the contract or not? I'm asking you again," Isabel said.Jessica's heart was pounding, fast and strong. Her hands and feet were cold, trembling. She looked at the person in front
"My children and I have been living here for decades and feel very safe in this area. The neighbors are friendly, and amenities are nearby, close enough. In general, it's well-equipped. Despite the recent influx of young people moving here, I haven't noticed anything like theft, traffic hazards, noise pollution, etc. The young ones living here are also peaceful, with a school nearby. They can play in front of the house without any kidnapping incidents.""Yes, so are there regular police patrols in this area?" Alex asked. In his opinion, Loki is still a particular suspect on the police's radar, so it would be expected for the police to be present in this area if he made any suspicious moves and was put under special surveillance. However, if there were regular police patrols and Loki still acted casually, it could indicate that he had some cover.They didn't rule out the possibility that undercover investigators might be disguised as civilians to avoid suspicion. But Alex still asked t
"Yes, Dad." The little girl was very obedient, only responding with "yes" and didn't express any opinions.Cherry still seemed reserved towards Alex and Isabel, which might be good. It meant she would listen to both of them. On the other hand, it might not be so good if she didn't open her heart to them, as it wouldn't be beneficial for any foster parent and certainly not for the little girl. But no matter what... everything was just pretended.After a five-minute drive, Alex, Isabel, and Cherry arrived at their new home."We're here. This will be our new home from now on." Alex said after parking the car in front of the house. He turned to look at Cherry, who was still hugging her teddy bear tightly. Her eyes were filled with emotions as she looked at the home. Her innocent eyes stared at the house, taking in its image, but there was a tinge of sadness and worry.Looking at Cherry, Alex suddenly remembered himself. He had a home and a father and was not abandoned, not orphaned. Yet,
"Oh." Indeed, only the wearer knows where the shoe pinches. A profession that seemed stable, but not so. And how did the massive debts lead Rihana down the wrong path?This information was beneficial to Alex. He thanked Jowley and said, "I appreciate the information. I already know what I needed.""So, how has your day been? What are your plans for the future?" Jowley inquired."Nothing special happened today, but you know, I met Mr. Boland, the husband of the woman I'm targeting. In the coming days, I'll start approaching their family." Alex briefly shared his plan with Jowley without going into too much detail, as he had yet to figure out the specifics. He intended to adapt as events unfolded because some things couldn't be controlled."Understood. If anything comes up, just let me know, and I'll handle it for you.""Thanks, I appreciate it. Please help me coordinate the company and stabilize the commercial center project while I'm away. Spread the rumor about Isabel and me being on
"Oh, Boland, huh?" Mrs. Cage's face slightly changed, seeming pale and unnatural when mentioning the Boland family. Alex quickly noticed this and added, appearing casual as if nothing was amiss."He seems like a good person. I heard he has four children, and it would be great if my daughter could be friends with them. It would help her feel less lonely."Mrs. Cage laughed momentarily, but the maid interrupted, bringing tea and interrupting their conversation.After the maid left, Mrs. Cage held her tea cup gently and took a sip, her face showing a thoughtful expression as if pondering something. Alex remained silent, waiting to see how the conversation would continue. Finally, Mrs. Cage spoke up:"I think you shouldn't let your daughter associate with that family."Alex looked surprised, and Isabel played her part perfectly, acting as if she couldn't believe it."Why? Haven't you watched TV? Oh well, maybe you didn't pay attention to those silly commercials, or perhaps you never chose
"If you're interested in this job, I can introduce you to Mrs. Boland," Mrs. Robinson suggested.Seeing the puzzled expressions on Isabel and Alex's faces, Mrs. Robinson thought they might be interested in trying out the job. So, she continued, carefully observing their reactions as she spoke.When they heard Mrs. Robinson's words on Alex and Isabel's side, it was as if a door had been suddenly opened, or rather, a hidden underground passage had been revealed. They were hoping for this, a direction they had yet to consider or dare to pursue fully.If they could "infiltrate" Rihana's "gang," nothing would be better. Suppose Alex or Isabel gained Rihana's trust, proving they were harmless and ordinary. In that case, she might entrust them with tasks, allowing them to replace her in performing illegal activities. This was an excellent opportunity.Alex glanced at Isabel at the exact moment she looked back at him. They exchanged glances as if they understood the underlying intention. It a