Chapter 213

Standing behind Chris, Kevin scratched his head. Miss Giovanni's sharp tongue was no joke; she certainly wasn't backing down.

Chris gritted his teeth. "Stephanie, I know you're clever, but let me be clear. If you tell me who owns Whispering Bay, maybe I'll consider…"

"Ugh, Chris, are you really that dumb?" Stephanie's frustration boiled over. "Maybe consider what? Were you imagining a follow-up between us? Did you really think you were some kind of prize everyone wanted a piece of?"

Chris snapped, "You—"

"Stefi!"

Before Chris could finish, a voice interrupted from the distance. They both turned to see Jackson and Rebecca approaching. Jackson wore a warm smile, his gaze soft and affectionate as it rested on Stephanie. Chris's face darkened.

Jackson reached Stephanie's side, glancing at what she carried. "Heading to the hot springs?" he asked casually. Stephanie nodded.

His tone softened further. "You should hurry; it's freezing out here."

Was it Chris's imagination, or was there affection in Jackson's tone? His expression darkened further.

Stephanie nodded. "Yeah, I'm heading there now."

"Wait." Chris reached out to stop her. He still had many questions. With her phone off and her location uncertain, this was his chance for answers. But as his hand reached for her, Jackson grabbed his wrist. "Chris, planning on wrecking that hand too?" Jackson's gaze briefly flicked to Chris's cast.

That single glance was a profound insult. His injury was hardly something he was proud of. Chris glared, fury burning in his eyes. He almost wanted to devour Jackson.

He hissed coldly, "Let go!"

Jackson ignored him. He'd intended to urge Stephanie along, but when he turned, she was gone. He stood stunned. This brat really lives up to her reputation. No thanks, no nothing.

Stephanie was well aware of the situation. Especially now, with Jackson and Chris on the verge of a significant collaboration, she kept her distance. She wouldn't let them influence her.

Seeing Stephanie gone, Jackson wasted no more time with Chris. He released his wrist and turned to leave. But as he walked away, Chris called out, "Where is the heir?"

Jackson raised an eyebrow. "You mean to tell me, you've been here this whole time and still don't know the name of the person you're supposed to meet?" It's a good thing Chris only has one son; otherwise, he'd be abandoned like garbage. With his looks and presence, it's a shame such a handsome figure has nothing more to offer. He might as well be brainless.

Chris's expression darkened; he remained silent. Jackson, however, couldn't contain his laughter. "Heh, hahahaha!" It was a mocking laugh.

Chris clenched his jaw, suppressing his anger. "Stop laughing. It's ugly."

Jackson smirked. "You're complaining about my laughter when you've got no skills yourself?"

Chris remained silent. Jackson clicked his tongue. "Tell me, Mr. Lucano has been in the city for a while now, but what exactly have you been doing? You still don't even know the person's name, let alone where they are!"

Chris, so focused on Olivia, hadn't cared about this important matter. But now, he admitted, Olivia had caused many distractions. If the six elders of the Ashford family knew about this, they'd probably devour her alive.

Chris's voice was low. "What I do is none of your business."

Jackson shrugged. "You're right, it's none of my business." He turned to Rebecca. "Let's go."

"Yes, sir." Rebecca respectfully followed.

As they left, Chris looked at Kevin. "Do you remember the name of the Lucano heir?"

Kevin hesitated. "There's almost no online news, but I think the last name is Giovanni."