Chapter 224



“I never would have guessed you shared such similar interests with her,” Jake remarked.

Ewing’s curiosity piqued. “Really? What a coincidence. I’d love to meet her someday.”

Jake remained silent, a flicker of bitterness and exhaustion briefly crossing his face.

Ewing glanced over at the bookshelf. “I was raised in Ferelden, yet it’s clear to me that I belong to Avalon. My family, including my grandfather, my parents, and my aunt, have always made sure I remember that. Although I wasn’t surrounded by much from Avalon, I stumbled upon these ancient books. Initially, they were tough to understand because they’re written in a script I never learned. However, I taught myself as I went along, gradually getting the hang of it. And it’s not just that. I have a passion for collecting antiques. I bet your friend enjoys this too?”

Jake cracked a smile. “Spot on.” Kallie wasn’t just fond of antiques. She also liked restoring them. Yet, Jake chose to keep that to himself.

Ewing redirected the conversation to the matter at hand. “You didn’t visit today just to chat about my hobbies, did you?”

Jake nodded, his demeanor turning grave. For the first time, the usually proud man had bowed his head in front of someone else. “I really hope you can help me find someone. She might not mean much to me, but I still want her to be found safe and sound.”

Jake’s choice of Ewing for this task stemmed from Ewing’s long-standing residence in Ferelden, where Ewing had minimal social connections in Avalon and led a simple life.

Despite this, Jake held back on divulging the complete truth. He was unaware of Kallie’s current circumstances, and revealing too much could complicate things for her.

Ewing shifted in his seat, a subtle smile playing on his lips, though his eyes remained detached.

Ewing replied, “I’m not sure what’s happened, but knowing you, this must be urgent. And to ask me for this favor, a business acquaintance you barely know, that’s saying something. I do sympathize, but I have to leave soon. Besides, you’ve met my grandfather. You saw the state he’s in, and he needs more of my focus now. Oh, and you met my cousin today, right? She’s got a congenital heart condition.”

Jake understood that Ewing wasn’t dismissing him outright. He noted Ewing’s use of the term “business acquaintance” was intentional.

Reacting quickly, Jake said, “I realize you’ve been overseas for a while and are looking to grow your business back home. If you’re interested, I’m ready to commit to a long-standing collaboration with your company in Avalon.”

Ewing raised an eyebrow in surprise. “You… Are you sure she doesn’t mean much to you?” His question carried a hint of skepticism.

Ewing’s business was modest, nowhere near grand enough to consider a partnership with the likes of the Reeves Group.

Ewing preferred a slow and steady approach to business growth, avoiding the use of his influence to pressure anyone. Yet, here was Jake, presenting an unexpected opportunity. Ewing didn’t hesitate to consider it.

Jake’s eyes held a touch of sorrow as he spoke with a steady voice. “Honestly, she’s my wife. However, our relationship has been strained. Now, she’s missing. I can’t spare the time to search for her myself, but I need to know she’s safe. If you find her, just let me know she’s alright. There’s no need to bring her back to me.”

Ewing stroked his chin thoughtfully. “Wife? But aren’t you engaged to the Miller’s daughter?”

Ewing recalled the detailed investigation he had conducted on the Miller family and Sarah due to Tyrone. Naturally, he was aware of Jake’s connection to Sarah.

Jake gave a slight nod but remained silent.

Ewing felt Jake was a jerk in terms of relationships. His gaze on Jake carried a touch of disdain.

However, Ewing had to acknowledge Jake’s formidable presence in the business world.

Even though the Reeves family couldn’t hold a candle to the Nixon family, Ewing never took Jake lightly.

Ewing’s parents maintained a love as fresh as their early days, which he admired.

Ewing disapproved of those who left their spouses, yet he knew that was a personal issue.

Ewing felt what mattered between him and Jake was the business collaboration. If he ever encountered Jake’s wife, that unfortunate woman, he would encourage her to muster the courage to leave Jake.

“In that case, I’ll give it my best shot. Please forward all her details to me later. But Mr. Reeves, I need to be clear with you. I’m not adept at tracking people down, so there’s a possibility I might not succeed,” Ewing said.

Jake had risen to his feet by this time. Hearing this, he responded, “That’s fine. Whatever the result, I’m prepared to accept it. As for our deal, since I’ve committed to it, I’ll honor my part regardless of the outcome.”

At this, Ewing quipped, “Mr. Reeves, don’t you think we should treat today’s agreement as distinct from our usual dealings?”

Ewing was discussing the collaboration between the Reeves Group and his own smaller company.

Ewing had no intention of expressing gratitude to Jake. In fact, this partnership might even result in a financial loss for Jake.

With straightforward honesty, Jake remarked, “This is my way of showing gratitude. I don’t expect anything in return.”

Acknowledging this, Ewing nodded and signaled his men to escort Jake out.

As Ewing watched Jake walk away, he found himself reflecting on Jake’s character.

Despite Jake’s gentlemanly demeanor, Ewing wondered why he was so harsh with his wife.

Meanwhile, Bria arrived at Ewing’s manor and instructed her team to monitor Kallie before she went to meet Ewing.

As if fate would have it, Bria encountered Jake, who was just leaving.

Their last encounter at the hospital had made a strong impression on Bria, and she saw Jake as someone trying to gain favor with Ewing.

As Bria walked past Jake, she tilted her head up slightly, displaying a touch of arrogance.

Dressed elegantly and radiating a poised charm, Bria was confident that Jake would take notice of her.

However, just as before in the hospital, Jake walked past Bria without a glance, treating her as if she were invisible.

Bria had never been so blatantly ignored before. She paused, shooting Jake a perplexed look, and then felt compelled to follow him.

“Hello.” Bria intercepted Jake, extending her hand. “Are you here to see Ewing?”

Jake looked down at Bria’s outstretched hand and briefly shook it. “Hello, yes, I’ve just finished speaking with Mr. Nixon. Thanks for asking.”

With that, Jake nodded courteously and began to walk away.

A frown momentarily marred Bria’s usually serene expression. How could Jake simply disregard her presence?

The desire to earn Jake’s attention ignited within Bria. She hurried to catch up with him. “I heard you hail from the Reeves family. Though Ewing can be quite arrogant, someone of your standing deserves his respect. We’ve met only twice, but you’ve left a good impression on me. If there’s anything you need, perhaps I could be of assistance.”

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