Chapter 979

Debra and Marion escorted Liza back home, where they saw Garland pacing anxiously at the doorstep. “Brother!” Liza called out, making a run toward him. Garland was ready to hug her when he spotted two figures standing behind her. His smile faded, and his arms hung awkwardly in mid-air. This wasn’t part of the script, and he didn’t know how to react when facing Marion and Debra. And Juan was not with them.

Oblivious to his strange reaction, Liza threw herself into his arms and cried, “I thought I’d never see you again.” Garland glanced nervously at Marion and Debra. Liza looked up and asked, “What’s wrong?” He saw her tear-streaked face and said in a deep voice, “Liza, pull yourself together. Our guests are watching.”

Liza was puzzled. This was their home, where she had never minded her manners. Garland then addressed Debra and Marion, “Mr. and Mrs. Houston, I presume I have you to thank for bringing Liza back safely.” His polite exterior concealed a growing discomfort. His palms were damp with sweat as he clasped them behind his back.

Debra smiled, “Mr. Eaton, are you not curious about the bodyguard you sent after Liza?” “Bodyguard?” Garland’s mind raced, and then he realized she was talking about Juan. Juan always wore that mask, making people think he was Garland’s bodyguard.

Before Garland could formulate a response, Debra clarified, “I’m referring to Frederic.” Garland was puzzled. ‘Frederic? Who the hell is this guy?’ He stammered, “He’s indeed a bodyguard of my family. Didn’t he come back with you guys?”

Debra replied, “We could have, but he disappeared. He is quite mysterious.” “Don’t mind him. He’s always like that. Once again, thank you for bringing Liza back safely,” Garland said smoothly and then suggested, “Would you like to come in and have a cup of tea?”

Chapter 979

Debra clung to Marion’s arm and declined, “No, thanks. It’s time for us to leave.” Liza quickly interjected, “Debra, I owe you one; I will repay you.” “I’ll keep that in mind,” Debra replied with a wink. Garland’s relief was almost palpable as he escorted the duo to the door. “Take care.”

The moment the door clicked shut behind them, Garland exhaled sharply, dragging a hand through his hair. Next time, he’d make sure to coordinate stories with Edgar beforehand. “Anything wrong?” Liza’s questioning tone pulled him from his spiraling thoughts.

He turned to her, his voice hardening. “You still have the nerve to ask? Sneaking out in the middle of the night without telling anyone? If Dad had found out, you wouldn’t be standing here right now.” “Oh, please. Dad wouldn’t lay a finger on me,” Liza retorted, crossing her arms defiantly.

“Well, where is the bodyguard I sent to save you?” he asked. “How would I know? He is useless. He didn’t help me at all,” Liza grumbled, getting goosebumps when she thought of his eerie mask.

Chapter 980