Chapter 369: He’s Everywhere
Zoey ignored Harlan’s gaze and stepped into the car. Carter, in his wheelchair by the door, reminded her, “This isn’t exactly the right time or place.” Harlan, showing more restraint than usual, said, “Don’t forget our agreement.” He reached out to support her, but Zoey, in her high heels, refused his touch. Just before the door closed, we heard Harlan’s low growl, “Who told you to dress like that?”
Carter gently helped me into the car; his touch was both gentlemanly and tender. I felt a little concerned. “Do you think Zoey is alright?” “Don’t worry,” Carter reassured me. “Harlan just talks a lot. He won’t hurt her. Besides, he’s already starting to change.”
I noticed Carter wasn’t wearing his usual dark suit. Instead, he wore one the same color as my dress, and even his bow tie was a soft ivory shade. “Carter, you look really handsome,” I said, offering a genuine compliment. His ears immediately turned red—it was so cute I almost wanted to kiss him. Carter’s eyes then fell on my bare neck. “Where’s the stone?”
I tapped my handbag. “An old woman from the village recognized it earlier. I was worried someone might connect it to the secret of my rebirth. Don’t worry, though; I keep it in my bag.” “Good. Just don’t lose it,” he said. “I’ll put it back on after the party. It won’t get lost.”
The party celebrated Bailey White’s 80th birthday. Upon arrival, I realized not everyone was a stranger. For example, there was Ashley, always so polished. As soon as Carter and I parted ways, Ashley approached, asking me for a loan. It made sense. He knew Bill had given me control of the subsidiary, and with Bill’s divorce scandal in the news, Ashley must have known I had the funds. I was the perfect target.
“Zoey, you look beautiful tonight.” I pointed behind him. “Carter, is that you?” His face paled, and he reflexively tried to run. But when he turned around, no one was there. “Zoey, you’re tricking me.” “No, I was just playing a game with a dog,” I said, walking away.
“Wait, sis—” Zoey let go of Harlan’s hand and ran toward me, almost colliding with Ashley. The moment she saw Ashley, she froze. Her heels were too high; she stumbled and fell. “Watch it!” Ashley instinctively reached out, but Harlan was faster. He pulled Zoey into his arms, lowering his voice. “Why are you running—”
Ashley stared at the red mole on Zoey’s forehead, identical to the one on mine. “You—” Although Zoey no longer had feelings for him, they had been involved in a past life. She instinctively tightened her grip on Harlan’s sleeve. Zoey was still young, her emotions easily visible, and Harlan noticed something was amiss.
“Mr. Pearson, who is this?” Ashley finally spoke, greeting him. Harlan coldly replied, “My wife.” “Oh, so you’re Mrs. Pearson. Mr. Pearson, you’re very lucky. Your wife is very beautiful.” It was customary to exchange pleasantries, but Harlan snorted dismissively. “Of course she’s pretty; is it really necessary to point that out?”
Ashley’s smile faltered, but desperate for money and connections, he managed a smile and greeted Zoey. “Hello, Mrs. Pearson. I’m Ashley Hudson.” Zoey’s hand, gripping Harlan’s cuff, tightened, causing him physical pain. “And what does that have to do with me?” she asked coldly.
She linked her arm with Harlan’s and walked away. Harlan quickly noticed her slightly red eyes and trembling body. Something wasn’t right between them. After meeting Ashley, Zoey’s mood plummeted. She didn’t let go of Harlan’s arm, even as people gathered, intrigued by the unfamiliar woman with him. Harlan patiently introduced her as his wife, but Zoey was lost in thought.
Since Zoey couldn’t talk to me anytime soon, I decided to find Carter. They seemed deep in conversation, so I quietly stepped away, figuring it would be over soon. The banquet hall was huge, and being new to the event, I wandered around. I ran into Fiona and others, greeting them in passing.
They had all returned to their country, but Alisa had stayed in Snowville. It seemed she truly loved Luke. “Are you looking for Mr. Bolton? I saw him head that way just now,” Fiona said. “Thank you,” I replied. Now that I was the daughter Bill valued after everything with Sadie, Fiona treated me much more warmly. It was clear—power was the key to social connections.
I headed in the direction she indicated, passing the buffet table, where I picked up a cake. Zoey had kept me busy, and I hadn’t had time to eat earlier. Just as I took a bite, I thought about Carter. He probably hadn’t finished his meal either. Should I bring him a piece? I picked a flavor I knew he liked, and as I turned around, I ran into an unexpected guest.
“Zoey, what a coincidence! I didn’t expect to run into you here.” When I saw him, I instinctively stepped back. Out of nowhere, Yael had appeared at Jaford—like an unshakable ghost from the past.