Ring, ring…Callia’s phone rang. The ringing interrupted the group’s laughter. Callia pulled her phone and checked her screen. Chase said, “Your mother must be calling.” “I’ve updated the family in the group chat that I’ve arrived safely. Madden’s calling.”Callia took her cousin’s call. The moment the call connected, Koben’s sobs cut through. “You abandoned me, Callie! You sneaked out when I wasn’t home. I want you!”Callia replied, “Aren’t you supposed to be in school, Koben?” “My summer break starts this afternoon. Why couldn’t you wait a few more hours? I want to go along with you!” Despite all the wailing, Koben got his message through. Callia tried to calm him down over the phone. Koben refused to listen to reason. He kept crying for Callia and threatened to shed tears until she was back. “Put your brother on the phone.” Callia asked to speak to Madden York because Koben’s sobbing was giving her a headache. Every time she came home for the holidays, Kob

After putting Koben down for a nap, Madden returned to his room and unpacked his things from school. He took every item out and put it in its own place. He took his bedding and dumped it in the washing machine for a wash cycle. Though Madden was an heir of the Yorks, his parents insisted that he would do things himself. The rule was not extended just to him. Koben, the youngest, was raised the same way. After waking up each morning, Koben would get dressed, put his shoes and socks on, wash up, and head downstairs with his backpack. The housekeeper would take him to preschool. Rowan and Eden took a hands-off approach, not spoiling their kids like other parents would. It would be time to show Koben around the kitchen once he was older. Rowan said the boys of the York family were expected to master a wide range of skills. By beginning at an early age, they could learn more and practice until those skills became instinctive.These skills were bound to come in handy. Rowan emphasiz

After giving the instructions to the housekeeper, Chase took quick paces ahead. Laurence told Noelle, “I told you not to follow me.” “I want to keep my master safe.” Noelle answered in a rigid, no-nonsense manner.“Noelle, can we drop the formal title, please?” “Sir.” Laurence stopped and cocked his head back to snap an angry look at Noelle. Noelle halted her footsteps, staying six feet away from Laurence. Though her expression was a picture of respect, her eyes flickered with determination. Even if looks could kill, Noelle would not back down. Her late mentor wanted her to stay by Laurence’s side and keep him safe from harm. Noelle gave her word that no harm would come to Laurence so long as she lived. However, when she was gone, she would ensure he lived on. In the face of danger, she would jump in and give everything to secure a chance of survival for Laurence. Noelle was determined to keep her promise to the very end, even if it meant giving up her life. “Lau

Laurence would handle the boys’ accommodation behind the scenes. If Laurence were seen with the Johnsons, Manny would know that he was the guy they had been searching for. Laurence wanted to keep the Longbottoms guessing. Unable to wipe out the threat, the Longbottoms could only watch as Laurence rose to power in Havenmill. Longtail Group dabbled in every business venture Longbottom Corporation was involved in, making both companies direct competitors. While a partnership was an option, Laurence did not want to work together with Manny. Longbottom Corporation was his once he got his payback and brought the Longbottoms to their knees. Manny and his people spent three decades keeping the wheels turning in the office. Little did they know, they were only doing the legwork for Laurence. “I wonder if Chloe can make time. I miss her,” Chase remarked. Laurence turned to him. “I hope you’re not getting any idea about Chloe. Chloe isn’t into dating someone younger like you. She wo

Noelle went quiet for a while before turning to Laurence. Laurence pulled a stoic look. When their eyes met, Laurence spoke sternly, “What? Are my instructions not clear enough for you? “Maybe you are just not willing to taste test the food for me.” Noelle glanced at the refreshments delivered by the housekeeper. She replied respectfully, “Sir, the fruit and pastries at the O’Connors’ house are definitely fresh and tasty.Isabella was known for her refined palate. Her home only stocked the best of the best. Chase said, “We have several fridges at home. Mom has one of her own, and what she eats is totally separate from what the rest of us got.” This was the truth. The food Austin cooked for Isabella was works of art that never repeated. Austin would just whip something quick for the kids. Though the ingredients were fresh, the cooking lacked the finesse found in the food for Isabella. It was a good thing Austin was an amazing chef. Even his lazy dishes were so good that t