The clock moved unrelentingly as time ticked past.

The anticipation in Yvette’s eyes was gradually replaced by disappointment. She restrained her emotions over and over again, but she eventually caved and couldn’t resist making a call.

The phone rang for a long time before it was finally answered.

“James, are you busy?” Yvette asked cautiously.

A woman’s voice could be heard from the other end of the line.

Yvette felt her heart getting stabbed by that sound, leaving it bleeding profusely. The pain she felt was unbearable.

She held the phone in a white-knuckled grip as tears streamed down her face.

“Did you hear that? I’m busy, sweetheart. I can’t come over for dinner tonight.” James’ voice was hoarse with desire, making it even more alluring.

Yvette bit her lower lip, silencing herself as tears rolled down her cheeks.

James didn’t even bother hanging up. Instead, he tossed his phone on the bed. Soon, the voices of their coupling wormed into Yvette’s ears through the phone.

Yvette continued to listen like a foolish masochist. The woman’s voice became an instrument of torture, tearing her apart.

Her heart felt as though it’d been wrenched out of her chest., and she found it difficult to breathe.

She thought she was special to James. After all, she’d been by his side the longest. She was the only person he had brought along on this trip to Orkford too.

Alas, it turned out that she was nothing but a joke.

Yvette could no longer bear to listen to their moans and violently threw the phone away.

…

Tessa had obediently listened to Stephen’s instructions recently, choosing to stay home as she worked remotely.

Stephen had also quickly discovered just who was backing Leon.

It was a man named Cayden Lindth. He was quite the big shot in Rivertown, with strong connections on both sides of the law and protection from the higher-ups.

In truth, Cayden had full control over dozens of companies, placing

scapegoats as his legal

representatives. Although these companies appeared to be

conducting legitimate businesses, they were secretly involved in a multitude of illegal activities.

Stephen hung his coat on the rack. “My men have also discovered that Cayden met up with James when he returned to the country. It seems like Cayden is trying to get into James’ good graces. James has

considerable sway in Arcton and numerous assets under his name.

“Cayden likely intends to collaborate with James to engage in some international trading. Meanwhile, James has limited influence in

Orkford and is in need of a partner. These two are a match made in hell. I’m afraid they’re likely already conspiring against me.”

Tessa frowned in concern. “What’s your plan?”

“Don’t worry, Tess. I’ve got a strategy prepared. James won’t be able to stir up much trouble in Orkford,” Stephen said confidently.

“Alright.” Tessa remained deeply worried about Stephen’s current predicament.

“Did anyone suspicious drop by recently?” Stephen asked.

He had stationed several bodyguards outside the villa to protect Tessa 24/7. The bodyguards would definitely report any suspicious individuals to him if they appeared. Nevertheless, he still wanted to ask Tessa personally just to be sure.

Tessa shook her head. “No.”

“Good. Don’t trust any strangers, okay?” Stephen warned.

“I know.”