Chapter 424
Richard Hampton warned Morwen Xanthus that any repetition of her actions would not be protected by her status as Saintess of the Azure Sea Royal Family.
The maid asked fearfully, "Miss Xanthus, are we still proceeding with the plan to attack the Kelley girl?"
This was a sensitive topic Morwen preferred not to discuss, and the maid's question was ill-timed.
Morwen threw a cup at the maid, shouting, "Get lost!"
The cup shattered against the maid's head, causing a bleeding wound. The maid winced but restrained her tears, quickly apologizing and leaving.
Morwen's anger was palpable. She had arrived in Lovell City with high hopes, believing everything was under control. Instead, on her first day, she was unceremoniously turned away from Royal Bay and denied a meeting with Richard. She even learned from servants that he was about to be engaged.
Tomorrow was her last chance. She had planned to eliminate Tiffany Kelley that day, but her plan failed, and she received a threatening letter. Richard knew she was responsible for the attack on Tiffany.
Morwen shuddered. She understood Richard's methods and the implication of the warning. Eliminating Tiffany would be far more difficult now; extreme caution was necessary.
Another night passed before the storm. Two inconspicuous cars entered Lovell City. One appeared ordinary, but its interior was luxurious. Inside, Felix Quaid, a man with a sinister charm, toyed with a lighter, its flame intermittently illuminating his seductive yet dangerous face. In the front seat, Scarface Lorenzo turned, asking excitedly yet respectfully, "Master, what is our next move?"
They had searched for the treasure box for years. Now that its location was known, their excitement was uncontainable. If the Harper family moved it, their efforts would be wasted.
Lorenzo continued, "Master, shouldn't we infiltrate the Harper family tonight and steal the treasure box? In case something unexpected happens…"
"What's the hurry?" Felix extinguished his lighter. The blue flame vanished, leaving his face even more enigmatic in the streetlight's glow. "We've waited this long. There's no need to rush."
Lorenzo cautioned, "But…we've covered our tracks. No one knows we're in Lovell City. This is the ideal time to strike. Otherwise…"
"Otherwise, if Mr. Hampton finds out, it's all over!"
Felix had faked his death using dissolving chemicals to make Sandra Olson resemble him. This deception had worked, for now. However, Richard controlled Lovell City. If he learned of Felix's survival and his motives, the treasure box would be irretrievable, and they would all perish. Listening to his henchman, Felix smiled faintly. "What's to fear? Isn't Mr. Hampton's engagement party the day after tomorrow?"
"Yes, but Mr. Hampton has many subordinates. The longer we wait, the greater the risk of discovery…" Lorenzo argued. Felix's next words stunned Lorenzo speechless.
"This is a golden opportunity. We'll give Mr. Hampton a grand wedding gift." Felix narrowed his eyes.
Lorenzo inwardly scoffed at his master's audacity, but dared not voice his concerns. He could only ask, "Master, you mean…?"
"To obtain the treasure box, we must eliminate Richard Hampton," Felix drawled.
Lorenzo was incredulous. "What? Master…this isn't funny." They had fought before; Richard had taken Isolated Riverdale, and he hadn't even used his full strength. Such a formidable opponent couldn't be easily eliminated.
Felix smiled mysteriously, lowering his voice. "Find an opportunity to capture the Kelley couple and their son."
Lorenzo was confused. This seemed unrelated to eliminating Richard or obtaining the treasure box. Why target the Kelley family? These questions raced through his mind, but Felix leaned back, eyes closed. Lorenzo wisely remained silent, nodding meekly. "Yes, Master."
On the day of the engagement party, at 6:30 AM, the Kelley household's servants were still waking. Several vehicles were already parked outside. Lovell City's top hair and makeup artists had arrived.
Tiffany was asleep when her mother woke her. Sleepily, she protested, "Mom, just let me sleep a little longer. Half an hour, just half an hour…"
"Not today!" Thalia Kelley responded firmly. She coaxed Tiffany out of bed. "My dear, today's your special day. You can't be late. You can sleep after the party." The mention of being late jolted Tiffany awake. A certain man's warning from the previous night echoed in her mind.
Tiffany quickly washed and dressed. The styling team, already waiting, followed Thalia upstairs. Tiffany put on her wedding gown; it was a unique, elegant design, and the team praised it highly. Makeup was light and natural, enhancing her youthful beauty.
By the time preparations were complete, the bridal motorcade was arriving. Richard led the procession. Security was tight throughout the city for the Hampton family engagement party. The route was secured, creating a romantic scene reminiscent of Richard's proposal, filling Lovell City with joy.
The motorcade arrived at Cedar Ridge Villa. As Richard stepped from the lead car, a joyful sparkle shone in his dark eyes. He was here to collect his bride.