Chapter 281 Whose Order Was It?
Chapter 281 Whose Order Was It?
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The man with the Senior Colonel badge on his shoulder was none other than Nathan’s eldest son, Axel Harlow.
He was currently serving as Deputy Commander at the Terenova Defense Headquarters.
Anna, feeling wronged and with nowhere else to turn, immediately burst into tears and ran to him.
“Axel, why are you so late?” she cried. “You need to do something to help Dad get up!”
Axel looked at his weeping sister, then at Nathan, who was still kneeling. “What exactly happened here?” he asked.
Anna pointed to Robin with hatred.
“Axel, Robin did something to Dad. I don’t know what kind of dark magic he used, but Dad just can’t get up.”
Axel’s face darkened upon hearing that. “You two–help my father up, now!” he commanded.
Two soldiers grabbed Nathan to lift him, yet he remained stuck to the ground as if his knees were glued there.
A flicker of shock crossed Axel’s eyes.
What kind of sorcery was this?
He glanced at Robin in the distance.
After a brief hesitation, he patted his sister’s shoulder. “Anna, calm down.”
Then, he began to approach Robin with two of his men.
Two black–clad guards from the Rogarios family stepped forward, blocking Axel’s path.
His expression darkened and one of his men aimed a gun at the guards. “Move aside!”
The guards placed their hands on their own weapons and shouted, “The Rogarios are handling this. Step- back immediately!”
Each black–clad guard of the Rogarios was a top–tier fighter trained in elite special forces.
The soldiers Axel had brought with him were simply field troops.
One of the Rogarios‘ guards alone could take on twenty of the regular soldiers.
However, Axel knew little of the Rogarios‘ internal secrets.
He merely saw them as a ragtag band of mercenaries.
A flash of anger flickered in Axel’s eyes as he encountered resistance.
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Chapter 281 Whose Order Was It?
When he looked up, he forced himself to remain composed as he saw Stephanie standing behind the guards
He took a deep breath and addressed her respectfully,
“Madam Stephanie, please instruct your guards to stepande
Tve received information that a man named Robin is attempting to cause a terror incident in Terenom, and I must take him into custody
Stephanie’s voice was cold. “There are no violent offenders here. Mr. Robin is an honored quest of the Rogarios
“Mr. Axel, let me remind you. If you dare to abuse national resources for the Harlow private interests, I’ll make sure thatyou will be stripped of that uniform!
“We will not stand by and watch you disrespect our guest
Axel scoffed. “Madam Stephanie, this is a military operation! If you and your men continue to obstruct my operation, I won’t hesitate to enforce martial law on this establishment
Madam Stephanie, it would be wise for both you and the Rogarios to not interfere.
“If you insist-”
“So, you’re determined to make the Rogarios your enemy?
“Give it a try,” Stephanie said.
Axel held back his frustration.
“Madam Stephanie, I have no desire to be at odds with the Rogarios.
“However, if you persist in blocking my military operation, I’ll have to invoke emergency protocols.
Stephanie’s expression didn’t waver as she chuckled coldly. “Fine! But be prepared for the consequences of provoking the Rogarios‘ wrath.
“Lay a finger on Mr. Robin, and the Rogarios will take every measure necessary to resolve this.”
“Ryder!” she barked. “Order all Rogarios‘ Black–clad Guards to assemble immediately!
Report to the President’s office that Axel, in pursuit of a Harlow family vendetta, is attempting to deploy armed forces against a civilian to manufacture a terror incident.
“The Rogarios Black–clad Guards are compelled to take defensive action!“”
A chill ran down Axel’s spine.
He was all too aware of the Rogarios‘ formidable influence in Demberoa.
Without their support, Demberoa wouldn’t have shaken off its colonial chains to gain independence.
In many ways, the Rogarios authority surpassed the President, with influence stretching across
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Chapter 281 Whose Order Was It?
government, military, and socery.
If Stephanie was serious about stopping him, neither he nor the Harlows could afford to stand against the Mogariou
Azel calmed down and began, “Madam Stephanie, I hold you and the Rogarios in the highest regard. But please understand, this is a military operation, and I must-
Bullsh*t! This is nothing but the Harlows abusing their power for personal gain!” Stephanie smirked.
“If you don’t get out of here right now, I’ll get your superiors to review your record and scrutinize exactly how you obtained your Senior Colonel and Deputy Commander ranks.
“If you’re still clueless, go ahead and test whether the Rogarios are a force you can afford to provoke.”
One of the black–clad guards ran in from outside. “All guards have assembled and we await your
command!”
Stephanie looked at Axel and warned, “You have thirty seconds to get out.”
“Madam-“Axel tried to protest.
Stephanie turned her back on him. “Black–clad Guards, prepare to move-
A shudder ran through Axel’s heart.
Just then, a man strode in with a smile.
“Madam Stephanie, what a surprise to see you here.”
It was Owen Harlow, Nathan’s younger son and the current Deputy Attorney General of Demberoa.
Stephanie didn’t bother to acknowledge him.
After a pause, Owen said, “I just received a call from the President’s office. There’s been an alleged terror incident reported on Crescent Lane.
Chapter 282 Robin’s Slaps
Chapter 282 Robin’s Slaps
Owen’s eyes flickered with panic as he overheard Dannis speaking with the president.
If it came to light that he was falsely acting under the President’s authority, he’d face more than a demotion.
The Anti–Corruption Bureau would be all over him, digging through every last one of his affairs.
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Once that happened, the shady dealings that the Harlows had secured for his deputy attorney general post would be revealed.
His political rivals would seize the chance to finish him
He exchanged a quick look with Axel before turning to Stephanie.
“Madam Stephanie, there are some urgent matters at the Department of Justice that demand my attention. I must take my leave. I’ll be sure to pay you a proper visit another day.”
Axel, catching on to the situation’s gravity, kept his composure but said sternly, “Madam Stephanie, for the sake of you and the Rogarios, I’ll let that thug off the hook for now!
“But remember, this is the last time!”
Anna was baffled.
Her two brothers, one a Deputy Commander at the Terenova Defense Headquarters and the other a Deputy Attorney General, had shown up in full force.
She thought they would crush Stephanie and Robin with ease.
It made no sense for them to leave empty–handed now
“Guys!” Anna blocked Axel and Owen’s path, her eyes blazing with frustration and anger as she pointed at Robin.
“How can you just let this go? The President has issued orders to deal with this violent incident. He has to be arrested!”
Axel frowned and glanced at Robin, who was now walking toward them.
“Anna, I have urgent tasks to attend to. Let the city’s SWAT team handle Robin.”
He turned to leave, but Stephanie’s cold voice halted him in his tracks.
“Wait a minute!” she said.
“Mr. Owen, Mr. Axel, you guys burst in here, claiming to have orders from the President himself and labeling my honored guest, Mr. Ramsey, as a violent criminal. Don’t you think you owe us an explanation?”
“What’s the hurry, Mr. Axel?
“Didn’t you just declare that you were here to take Mr. Ramsey away?”
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Axel stopped and responded through gritted teeth, “Madam Stephanie, I have pressing matters to address. I won’t pursue this matter any further today.
“But rest assured, the President will ensure justice is served and any violent criminals are brought to
account.”
Robin approached with a smirk. “So, you’re the eldest son of the Harlows?”
Instinctively, Axel reached for his sidearm. “Yeah?”
Robin scoffed. “Since you arrived, you’ve referred to me as a violent criminal.
“Don’t you think you owe me an explanation? You’re rude to walk away like that.”
Axel could feel Robin’s oppressive aura. “Wh–what do you want?”
“Oh, not much. I just want to show you that you’re right.
“But just so you know, no one has ever spoken to me like that without facing any consequences.”
Before Axel could say anything, Robin had already slapped him hard, sending him sprawling across the floor.
The towering, muscular Deputy Commander was thrown back with one slap.
Instantly, the twenty soldiers who had accompanied Axel raised their guns, aiming at Robin.
The sound of rifles being cocked filled the room.
In response, dozens of Rogarios‘ guards aimed their weapons at Axel and his soldiers.
Owen stammered anxiously, “Everyone, stay calm… please, stay calm!”
He rushed over to Robin.
“Mr. Ramsey, my brother Axel is the Deputy Commander at Terenova Defense Headquarters. He’s just following orders from his superiors-”
“Is that so? Whose order was it?” Robin wiped his hand with a cloth, looking unimpressed.
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“Didn’t you also say you had orders to arrest me, a supposed violent criminal?”
Owen hadn’t expected Robin to talk to him in this tone
“Y–you killed members of the Grimwolf Crew… that makes you a criminal,” he said.
Robin raised an eyebrow and tossed the cloth aside.
“So killing those Grimwolf thugs makes me violent? And what about the Harlows, who funded and protected them–doesn’t that make them worse?
“Did you consider the consequences when you forged orders to come after me?”
Owen felt guilty and he wanted to use his position as the Deputy Attorney General to pressure Robin.
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Chapter 282 Robin’s Slaps
“How dare you!”
Robin’s tone was icy. “Let me show you just how bold I can be!”
And with that, he struck Owen across the face, sending him sprawling to the floor.
A heavy silence fell over the room.
Axel had finally come back to his senses.
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It was humiliating for him, a Deputy Commander, to be slapped to the ground like a common criminal. With a roar of rage, he pulled out his gun, aiming it straight at Robin as he yelled, “Thug! I don’t care who’s behind you. I’m killing you today!”
His finger tightened on the trigger.
Bang!
A single gunshot rang out.
The bar fell silent.
Chapter 283 I’ve Long Forgotten The Old Times
Chapter 283 I’ve Long Forgotten The Old Times
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A Rogarios‘ black–clad guard fired, hitting Axel in the wrist and forcing him to drop his weapon.
At the same time, dozens of the black–clad guards aimed their pistols directly at Axel and his soldiers.
Stephanie’s voice was cold and sharp. “Axel, if you dare make a single move, all these bullets will shoot through the Harlows.”
Nathan, feeling both shocked and furious, shouted, “Axel, beg for Madam Stephanie’s forgiveness!”
Axel, who was putting pressure on his bleeding wrist, refused to budge.
Stephanie stepped forward and stopped in front of him. “Who gave you the nerve to point a gun at my esteemed guest? Ryder, teach him a lesson.”
Ryder landed a punch on Axel’s face, sending him sprawling to the floor, convulsing in pain.
Anna rushed up to Stephanie and screamed, “What’s going on? Are you all insane?
“Robin… he’s nothing but a lowlife thug!
“Madam Stephanie, are you sure you’re not being deceived?
Seven years ago, he was just a homeless lowly bartender here.
“How could he possibly be worthy of being your esteemed guest-”
“Shut up!” Stephanie slapped Anna hard across the face.
“Ignorant brat! The Harlows should be ashamed of you! If Mr. Ramsey hadn’t chosen to ignore your petty behavior, your family would already be dead meat!”
At that moment, a man in his thirties with glasses came rushing into the bar, flanked by thirty presidential guards.
The guards lined up in two rows, pointing their guns directly at Axel and his soldiers.
“Drop your weapons and return to Demberoa to face a military tribunal! You’ll be executed on the spot if you disobey the order!”
Axel and his twenty soldiers didn’t dare to resist the presidential guards‘ unyielding order.
They had no choice but to surrender their weapons and were led out of the bar.
The man with glasses quickly approached Robin and Stephanie.
“Mr. Ramsey, good evening. I am Jarvis, chief secretary of the president’s office. The president is waiting outside and invites you and Madam Stephanie to join him.”
Stephanie pointed at Owen and asked, “Mr. Jarvis, I have a question. Deputy Attorney General Owen here claims that he received orders from your office to arrest Mr. Ramsey. Is that true?”
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Chapter 283 I’ve Long Forgotten The Old Times
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Jarvis turned pale and he trembled. “Madam Stephanie that is absolutely impossible! I swear on my life that no such order was issued.”
“Great.” Stephanie turned to Owen. “Mr. Owen, I think you owe us all an explanation for your earlier actions.”
Owen stammered, “Madam Stephanie, Mr. Jarvis, I received a report of gun violence at Dreamscape Bar, so I… I came here with the Department of Justice’s officers.”
Jarvis’s expression darkened. “Owen, tell me, who ordered you to come to Dreamscape Bar and make these arrests?”
Owen dodged the question. “Mr. Jarvis, I… I honestly didn’t know Mr. Ramsey was an honored guest of the President.”
“Answer me!” Jarvis demanded icily. “Who exactly ordered you?”
Owen broke out in a cold sweat. “I … I’m sorry, Mr. Jarvis. I—”
Jarvis sneered, “How dare you abuse the President’s authority for personal gain?
“Mr. Owen, you’ll have plenty of time to explain yourself to the Anti–Corruption Bureau. Take him away!”
The presidential guards immediately dragged Owen and his two officers out of Dreamscape Bar.
Jarvis once again spoke in a respectful tone, “Mr. Ramsey, I apologize on behalf of the President, who has just learned of this matter. Don’t worry, you will receive a satisfactory explanation soon. Please, follow me.
Robin gave a nod and began to walk outside.
Anna quickly chased after them and called out, “Robin, wait!”
Her eyes filled with tears as she watched his retreating figure.
“Robin, I … I was wrong. Could you please spare my father, for old times‘ sake?”
Robin paused and frowned. “Old times? I’ve long forgotten them.”
With that, he turned and walked out, tossing the crumpled cloth in his hand over his shoulder, where it struck Nathan squarely in the face.
Nathan, who was in a daze, realized that he could finally stand with shaky legs.
He was filled with regret as he watched Robin’s figure fade into the distance.
They had provoked someone of such power today.
A golden opportunity had been utterly squandered by the Harlows‘ foolishness.
Despair washed over him as he glanced down at the bodies strewn on the floor, then at Anna, who stood in stunned silence,
The Harlows were doomed without Robin’s forgiveness.
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“Anna, you need to beg for Mr. Ramsey’s forgiveness. Beg him to spare the Harlows for the sake of what you once had.”
Anna shook her head and murmured, “He had forgotten everything… seven years of us…
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Nathan’s entire body shook with rage as he slapped Anna hard.
“We’re at the end of the line, and you’re still thinking about the past? You’d better go and beg him right now for the sake of our family.”
The slap jolted Anna back to reality.
Nathan spoke bitterly, “Anna, if you don’t go plead with Mr. Ramsey, your brothers and the Harlows are as good as dead.”
After a moment’s hesitation, she turned and dashed out of the bar, shouting after him, “Robin, I was wrong! Wait for me, please!”
Chapter 284 Heaven and Hell
Chapter 284 Heaven and Hell
Anna rushed out of Dreamscape Bar and she was shocked at the sight.
She’d lived in Terenova for years, but she had never seen the presidential guards this close.
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Nearly a hundred soldiers in impeccable formation lined both sides of the bar entrance. Ahead stood a fleet of around thirty luxury cars, each guarded by armed soldiers.
Soon, the Demberoa President stepped out of his car.
He was accompanied by a middle–aged couple walking respectfully at his side as they approached Robin.
Nathan, who had come out after her, was stunned when he saw the couple by the President’s side.
His entire body trembled in shock. He rubbed his eyes in disbelief and murmured, “No way! How… how can they be here?”
The couple beside the President was none other than the heads of Phoenix Vanguard Cassian, and his wife, Mavis./
“Dad, who are they?” Anna asked in confusion.
Nathan let out a bitter laugh. “Anna, we’re done!
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“We could have risen to the top of Demberoa’s elite circle using the connection you had with that man seven years ago.
“But you threw it all away!”
The scene that followed left Nathan even more shaken.
Cassian and Mavis hurried to Robin respectfully.
“We owe you our deepest gratitude,” Cassian said, his voice trembling with reverence.
Robin’s expression remained cold. “If Phoenix Vanguard ever acts out like this again, I will make sure it ceases to exist.”
“Understood. I will thoroughly reform Phoenix Vanguard and forever be in your command!
“Once the situation here in Terenova is settled, my wife and I will go to Draconia in–person to pay our gratitude once more.”
The President shook Robin’s hand and chatted with him as they made their way to the car.
“Robin, wait! I have something to say!”
Robin had just taken a few steps when he heard Anna calling him desperately.
She tried to push past the guards, but they stopped her
“Robin, I know I was wrong. I shouldn’t have treated you that way..
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Chapter 284 Heaven and Hell
Her cries, filled with anguish, echoed bitterly in the night air outside Dreamscape Bar.
Robin sighed and stopped walking.
“Don’t bring up the past from seven years ago. Leave
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Anna pleaded in tears, “Robin, you once told me you’d care for me forever. Have you really forgotten that?”
Robin smiled faintly and continued, “Yeah, we were young and foolish back then. Weren’t you telling me to ‘grow up‘ half an hour ago? Nothing in this world lasts forever. Forever is a lie.”
He turned and walked away after saying that.
Seeing that Anna’s pleas hadn’t changed his mind, Nathan called out loudly, “Mr. Ramsey, my family apologize to you,”
Robin turned around. “You guys are apologizing? Haven’t the Harlows always believed that whoever has power can do as they please?”
Nathan begged, “Mr. Ramsey, we were wrong. Please, forgive us.”
Forgiveness does not exist in my dictionary.” Robin chuckled and looked at Stephanie. “I nearly forgot- Stephanie, do you think the Harlows deserve to exist?”
“Not at all. I know what needs to be done,” Stephanie said without hesitation and gave Ryder a nod
“Do it.
With that, she joined Robin in the President’s limousine.
Anna could only watch the President’s convoy disappear into the night with hollow eyes.
The night breeze swept through her tangled hair, stirring up long–buried memories of her first encounter with Robin.
The golden sky, the gentle breeze, and the boy’s bright, effortless smile.
Back then, Robin had saved a girl in a floral dress from a group of bullies.
He gripped her hand and said with a grin, “I will make whoever harms you in the future pay!”
At that moment, Anna’s heart had been captivated.
Her heart skipped a beat at his smile under the sunset.
She vowed to stay by his side forever.
She wished to sit with him outside the bar to watch the sunset and listen to his laughter in the breeze every day.
Seven years had passed in the blink of an eye.
Robin returned, but things were never the same again.
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Chapter 284 Heaven and Hell
The warmth of the sunset was gone from this part of the town.
The sharp ring of a phone jolted Anna back to reality,
Nathan looked at the phone and shook his head in despair.
He knew that the Harlows‘ legacy for three generations had been utterly destroyed today,
Nathan sighed heavily as he watched the President’s convoy vanish into the night.
His hair turned visibly gray in that instant.
What could have been their chance to ascend to the heights of Demberoa’s elite circle had instead plunged them into a bottomless pit.
It was only a line between heaven and hell.
Chapter 285 Brenda Had Gone Cuckoo
Chapter 285 Brenda Had Gone Cuckoo
The next morning, Marrisa sat gloomily inside her soup restaurant.
Meanwhile, Brenda couldn’t contain her excitement.
“Marrisa, why won’t you believe me? I’m telling you, the President picked up Robin!”
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Marrisa shook her head, feeling exasperated. “Brenda, what’s gotten into you so early in the morning? How could the President possibly have anything to do with Robin?”
Brenda was nearly pulling her hair out. “Marrisa, how do I even explain last night to a bumpkin like you?”
Marrisa groaned. “Brenda, it’s been the same story ever since you got back last night. Are you losing your mind?”
“I’m not! At first, I didn’t believe it either, but I saw it with my eyes! I don’t know what Robin’s been up to all these years, but the Rogarios, the President, and even the mayor, Douglas, all treated him with such respect!”
“Brenda, you must’ve had way too much to drink at the bar last night,” Marrisa said, rolling her eyes.
“You’ve been going on about this all night! What do you get from lying to me?
“If Robin is so close to the President, why would he even come back to us?
“We’re broke and he’s friends with the President. Wouldn’t associating with us affect his reputation?”
Brenda shook her head. “Robin knowing the President and the Rogarios has nothing to do with us being poor!”
Marrisa patted Brenda’s head lightly. “You silly girl, that’s a whole different world.”
Brenda paused and said, “You might be right.
“Is he here to say goodbye?
“If that’s the case, he might not come around anymore-
Bang!
Hugh and Nico from the casino kicked open the restaurant door.
“Brenda, I’m smashing up your shop today! You robbed me of 300,000 dollars! Where’s that punk?”
Nico, who was holding a machete, plopped down in front of Marrisa.
Marrisa’s legs gave up in fear.
“Hugh, please… I promise we’ll pay the money back,” she pleaded, trembling.
Hugh sneered. “Great! Give it to me then. Your restaurant is mine if you don’t pay me today!”
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Chapter 285 Brenda Had Gone Cuckoo
Brenda quickly helped Marrisa up.
“Don’t be scared of them. If Robin were here, he’d chop them to pieces!”
Marrisa was dumbfounded. “Hush! Are you out of your mind?”
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“Hugh, come on. Brenda’s always been your friend–can’t you let her off just this once?” Marrisa begged.
“I swear, if Robin doesn’t pay you back the 300 dollars, I will, even if it takes me forever.”
Brenda held onto Marrisa’s arm. “Stop pleading with them. Robin’s a friend of the President. They should. be scared of us!”
Hugh and Nico exchanged looks, then burst out laughing.
Then, they eyed Brenda as if she were delusional.
“Brenda, have you completely lost it? You’re telling me Robin is pals with the Demberoa President?” Hugh scoffed.
“Of course!” Brenda declared proudly. “You two better watch out because if Robin comes back, you won’t know what hit you.
“And the Underground Queen, Stephanie of the Rogarios, treats Robin with absolute respect.
“Get lost if you don’t have a death wish!”
Hugh and Nico were stunned momentarily before they broke into roaring laughter.
“Brenda, what stuff did you take last night that messed up your head like this?
“Yeah, right! The Underground Queen and the President are all bowing down to Robin! Oh no, I’m terrified!”
Hugh mocked, pointing his machete at Brenda.
“Don’t play dumb!
“Get lost if you can’t cough up 300,000 today. This restaurant is mine!”
Marrisa begged desperately.
“Hugh, this restaurant is our lifeline. Please, don’t take it from us!
“If Robin doesn’t repay you, I’ll scrape together every penny I make and give you back every cent.”
Hugh laughed so hard that he was nearly falling over.
“You’re going to sell soup to pay me back? 300,000 will take you until the end of time! No, you’re paying it now! Or get out–the restaurant’s mine!”
Marrisa was trembling uncontrollably as she prayed silently.
Robin, please don’t come back now, or you’ll run straight into these thugs.
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Chapter 285 Brenda Had Gone Cuckoo
They’re practically ruthless devils.
She could see it clearly in the faces of Hugh, Nico, and the dozen men standing outside.
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If Robin showed up, they would definitely beat him into a pulp if they couldn’t get back the money.
She leaned in close to Brenda and whispered, “You’ve got to find a way out of here. If Robin shows up, tell him not to come in, no matter what!
“Can’t you see it? These people are up to no good!”
Chapter 286 Motherly Love
Chapter 286 Motherly Love
Brenda shook off Marrisa’s hand and looked defiantly at Hugh and his gang.
“They aren’t worth the trouble! Marrisa, don’t be scared. I’m calling Robin right now.”
“Stop it, brat!” Marrisa couldn’t understand where Brenda was getting all this confidence.
It had to be from the drinks at the bar last night–she still hadn’t sobered up!
Hugh smirked as Brenda glared at him and his men.
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“Hugh, you better listen up!” she warned. “If you don’t leave now, you won’t get a chance later when Robin gets here!”
“Oh no, this girl has completely lost it,” Marrisa muttered, feeling exasperated.
Hugh and Nico burst into laughter.
“Fine, Brenda! Call him over. This shop is mine if Robin couldn’t make me grovel today.”
“Alright, just wait!” Brenda said through clenched teeth.
She pulled out her phone, dialed Robin’s number, and put it on speaker.
Everyone in the soup restaurant held their breath.
Even though Hugh and Nico didn’t believe Brenda’s claims, her expression was serious enough to make them second–guess.
“Sorry, the number you are calling is currently unavailable. Please try again later.”
Hugh and Nico’s brief tension melted away as they laughed even louder.
“Brenda, it’s only been a day, and your lying skills have gotten this good?”
“Almost had me fooled!” Nico chuckled.
“Alright, Marrisa, Brenda, get out. This shop belongs to me now-”
“Who the hell is talking so boldly?” Robin said as he entered the restaurant.
Marrisa rushed to push Robin outside.
“Robin, get out! Run!”
Robin gently held her arm and smiled. “Why should I run? This is my home.”
Brenda ran up to him in relief. “Robin, you really came. I was afraid you wouldn’t.”
“Why wouldn’t I?” Robin said as he helped Marrisa to a seat.
“But… Robin, you’re with all those bigwigs now. Why would you come back to us?” Marrisa asked softly.
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Chapter 286 Motherly Love
Robin patted Brenda’s head.
He noticed her once–red hair was now in a black bob.
“You silly girl. Why wouldn’t I come back to my family
Brenda’s lips quivered, and her eyes were filled with tears. “Robin… you’re the best.”
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Marrisa, still frazzled by the situation, snapped, “Brenda, now’s not the time for this! Get Robin out of here!”
Hugh laughed and stepped closer while brandishing his knife.
“Marrisa, did your Robin and Brenda drink too much soup and lose their senses?”
“Hugh, stop it! Put the knife down!” Marrisa shouted, stepping protectively in front of Robin and Brenda.
Seeing Marrisa standing up to Hugh for them even when she was scared, a warm feeling spread through Robin’s usually guarded heart.
Yes, there’s a force in this world powerful enough to shake heaven and earth.
Motherly love.
Even the weakest mother would give her all, even her life, to protect her children from any threat.
Robin took her hand and pulled her behind him.
Robin pointed at Hugh and Nico. “It’s funny that you two are running a casino but can’t handle a loss.
“I warned you yesterday. If you cause trouble again, things won’t end so simply this time.
“Feel free to test it if you don’t believe me. Think carefully before it’s too late.”
Hugh and Nico exchanged wary glances, and then sneered.
“Still trying to act tough, huh?
“Didn’t I tell you? The Rogarios have our backs!
“I’ve brought someone with me today!”
“So, you’ve brought someone for something trivial like this?” Robin arched an eyebrow.
Hugh sneered. “I brought someone from the Rogarios. Do you even know how powerful they are?
“Terenova’s Underground Queen is here!”
Robin shook his head, chuckling. “Terenova’s Underground Queen again?
“Is everyone now using the Rogarios‘ name to act tough?
“Fine. Let’s see what you’ve got.
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Chapter 286 Motherly Love
“Go ahead, call them. I want to see if they’re that:
Brenda sat beside Robin and watched his expressi
Her eyes sparkled with anticipation.
She could almost see what would happen to Hugh
“Robin, this is going to be so much fun!” she giggle
Robin patted her on the head. “There’s nothing fun
Just then, a stir came from outside the restaurant.
Hugh and Nico glanced toward the door, unsure of
A middle–aged woman walked in, accompanied by a
Hugh looked at Stephanie and Ryder and said coldly today.”
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Chapter 286 Motherly Love
“Go ahead, call them. I want to see if they’re that scary!
Brenda sat beside Robin and watched his expression, her chin resting in her hand.
Her eyes sparkled with anticipation.
She could almost see what would happen to Hugh and Nico up next
“Robin, this is going to be so much fun!” she giggled.
Robin patted her on the head. “There’s nothing fun about it.”
Just then, a stir came from outside the restaurant.
Hugh and Nico glanced toward the door, unsure of what was happening.
A middle–aged woman walked in, accompanied by a man who looked like her butler.
Hugh looked at Stephanie and Ryder and said coldly, “Sorry, ma’am, but the soup restaurant isn’t open today.”
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Chapter 287 Disrespecti
Chapter 287 Disrespecting Stephanie
Chapter 287 Disrespecting Stephanie
“Move!” Ryder stepped forward, his voice cold and commanding.
His oppressive aura was frightening.
Hugh and Nico froze and instinctively stepped aside,
+5 Free Coins
Brenda stood up in surprise. She could never have expected that Stephanie herself would walk into their little soup restaurant.
“Ma–Madam Stephanie, w–welcome,” Brenda stammered, her voice shaking with excitement.
Stephanie nodded slightly and sat beside Brenda.
She turned to Marrisa and asked Brenda, “Is she the owner of this place?”
“Y–Yes, Madam,” Brenda replied, her voice trembling.
Marrisa felt a wave of nervousness as well.
Since the day she’d opened her restaurant, she’d never had a customer so refined and dignified.
“Yes, Madam. You can just call me Marrisa.”
Stephanie smiled and nodded. “Marrisa, I’ve heard your soup is wonderful. Would you mind making me a bowl?”
Marrisa glanced nervously at Robin, then at Hugh and his men, before answering, “I’m so sorry, Madam!
“My restaurant is involved in a bit of trouble today.
“Would you please come back another time?
“It’ll be on me.
“Please, Madam, you and your friend should leave. I don’t want anything to happen to you here,”
Stephanie smiled and replied, “Don’t worry, Marrisa. Go ahead and make the soup. No one will harm you while I’m here.”
Marrisa looked uncertainly at Stephanie and Ryder, then back at Hugh.
She was in a dilemma.
Brenda quickly whispered, “Marrisa, no one will dare cause trouble.”
Robin gave Marrisa an encouraging nod. “It’s fine, Marrisa. There won’t be any trouble.
“They came all this way just to try your soup–they’d be disappointed if you didn’t serve it.”
Marrisa took a deep breath before managing a smile at Stephanie and Ryder. “Alright. Please give me a
moment.”
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Hugh and Nico, who had initially been intimidated by Ryder’s aura, took a moment to reassert themselves. After all, it seemed ridiculous that such a high–profile person would come to a place like this.
Summoning his courage, Hugh approached Stephanic with a sneer. “Didn’t I say this place is closed today?
You need to leave now.
Stephanie glanced at him and asked, “Do you even know who I am?”
“Do you think I care about that? Let me tell you who I am!” Hugo scoffed.
Ryder was about to intervene, but Stephanie gestured for him to wait. “Go on, then. I wish to see who gave you the right to act like a king here?”
“You’ll be terrified when you hear of the name. My backer is none other than Terenova’s Underground Queen, Stephanie!
“I’m going to beat you up if you don’t get lost now!”
Stephanie raised an eyebrow.
“Oh, so Stephanie is backing you now? Why didn’t I know that there’s some trash like you within the Rogarios?”
Brenda looked at Hugh with pity.
After seeing the brutal events at Dreamscape Bar last night, she had felt the immense power of the Rogarios and the ruthless command of Terenova’s Underground Queen.
Yet here Hugh was, making an absolute fool of himself right before the real thing.
Little did he know, his fate had already been sealed.
At hearing Stephanie’s words, Hugh smashed his fist on the table, laughing.
“Do you know who you’re talking to, you old hag?
“Do you think having a bit of money makes you someone special around here?”
“Do you know what Ryder will do to you if I tell him about you?”
Ryder rolled his eyes.
He’d seen people seeking death, but he rarely saw anyone so eager to dive straight into it like Hugh.
He grabbed Hugh by the collar and barked, “Kid, how dare you disrespect Madam Stephanie?”
Hugh’s face turned white as a sheet. A shiver ran down his spine as he felt the cold grip of hell.
Nico and the others circled Ryder and pointed their knives at him.
“Let him go! I’m warning you, our backers are the Rogarios!”
Ryder nearly crushed Hugh with a single slap but was stopped by Stephanie.
O
<
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sp “Wait. I want to see which of the Koparios would back trash like this.
*Parading around with the Rogarion name will come alla high price!
Ryder let go of Hugh and stared at them coldly.
Hugh and Nico felt uneasy under his gaze.
Stephanie spoke as though the were someone important in the Rogarios family.
Still, it seemed impossible that someone as powerful as the Underground Queen would show up here.
They scoffed and laughed.
“Alright, I’ll show you what we’re made of since you’re so curious about it
He turned to a blonde lackey behind him. “Call Mr. Pule and tell him to come over?”
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Chapter 288 The Rogarios‘ Rules
Chapter 288 The Rogarios‘ Rules
Stephanie frowned slightly. “Ryder, is there really someone named Pule in the family?”
Chapter 288 The Rogarios‘ Rules
Chapter 288 The Rogarios‘ Rules
Stephanie frowned slightly. “Ryder, is there really someone named Pule in the family?”
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Ryder thought for a moment before answering in a low voice, “Yes, Madam, there is someone by that
name.
“He was hired two months ago as a cook at the Ridge Road Villa.”
Stephanie shook her head. “Alright, then. Let’s wait here for him.”
She glanced over at Robin, who was busy scrolling on his phone, then turned to Brenda. “You’re Brenda,
correct?”
Brenda stood up in excitement. “Yes, Madam, I’ve heard so much about you…
Stephanie gently took her hand and motioned for her to sit. “How old are you?”
Brenda nervously replied, “I’m 17.”
“Seventeen, such a wonderful age,” Stephanie said kindly, still holding her hand.
“Tell me, Brenda, do you want to go to university?”
Brenda was stunned. She’d never dared to dream of such a thing.
Tertiary education was for the wealthy.
She had been helping Marrisa with this small soup restaurant for years, without a thought of her own
future.
Robin nudged her. “You should be in school, not hanging around here.”
“But… I…” Brenda stammered, feeling uncertain.
“No buts. You’re going to school,” Robin said, ruffling her hair.
Brenda looked at Stephanie nervously and nodded. “Alright, I’ll listen to Robin.”
Stephanie smiled. “Good. Ryder, contact Athena University and arrange for Brenda to attend there soon.”
“Got it,” Ryder responded.
“Ms. Brenda, please send me a photo of your ID later, and I’ll handle the enrollment for you.”
“What? Athena University?” Brenda gasped, her face filled with disbelief.
Athena University was the top university in Demberoa.
They were ranked around 30th in the world, known for admitting only the elite.
She couldn’t even imagine attending such a prestigious place.
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Stephanie was surprised at her reaction. “What’s wrong, you don’t like this university?”
“No, no, Madam! 1-1 just don’t feel like I deserve a place there,” Brenda replied.
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Robin gave her a playful smack on the head. “Silly girl, of course, you deserve it. And don’t even think of slacking off. I’ll punish you if you don’t study hard.”
“Alright, Brenda said, nodding, still dazed by this sudden turn of fortune.
Just then, a voice came from outside. “Move aside! Mr. Pule is here!”
Hugh hurried to the door, where a bald man in his late thirties swaggered into the restaurant.
It was Pule, a cook employed by the Rogarios.
As he entered, Hugh and Nico, along with the other lackeys greeted him respectfully.
“Good day, Mr. Pule!”
Pule lifted his head smugly.
Nico quickly lit a cigar for him.
Pule coughed as the thick smoke hit him after taking a puff.
“Now, what is it?” he grumbled. “I’ve got plenty to handle for the Underground Queen, and you’re wasting my time,”
Hugh shoved a stack of cash into Pule’s pocket.
“Mr. Pule, thank you for coming. There’s this old hag here who claims to be from the Rogarios and demanded that you come.
“We didn’t want to bother you, but-”
Pule let out a booming laugh with his nose high in the air.
“Who’s acting so bold here?
“Didn’t you tell her about me?”
“We did tell her, but she didn’t believe us!”
Nico led Pule to Stephanie.
He was surprised at the powerful presence of the sophisticated woman in front of him.
He’d never seen Terenova’s legendary Underground Queen.
So, he managed to regain his composure after a pause.
“So, you’re the one who wanted to see me?” he sneered
Stephanic ignored him.
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Chapter 288 The Rogarios‘ Rules
09%
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Pule grew more arrogant at her silence. “Do you even know who I am? I’m Mr. Ryder, right–hand to the-”
In the middle of his bragging, he finally noticed Ryder standing beside Stephanie. “M–Mr. Ryder? What… what are you doing here?”
Every member of the Rogarios knew that Ryder was always by Stephanie’s side.
If Ryder was here, then this woman must be …
Pule’s heart sank as he took another look at Stephanie.
With a loud thud, he dropped to his knees.
Ryder’s face darkened. “Pule, who gave you the nerve to use the Rogarios‘ name to fool people and throw your weight around?”
Hugh and Nico were dumbfounded.
The high–ranking Rogarios man we had summoned was kneeling before this woman.
“P–Pule, did you mistake her for someone else?” Hugh stammered.
“You idiot, shut up!” Pule barked, glaring at them with hatred.
He turned back, pleading with Ryder, “Please, Mr. Ryder, forgive me! I’ll never do it again …‘
“Are you clear about the Rogarios‘ rules?” Ryder’s voice was icy.
“The punishment for flaunting the family’s name and using Madam’s reputation to bully others is drowning!”
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Chapter 289 On Your Knees
Ryder, Madam Stephane! Please, spare me! I swear I’ll never do it again…” Pule pleaded in
“Better start leaving your last words,” Ryder said with a wave of his hand. Two black–clad guard’s stepped forward, grabbed Pule by the arms, and dragged him out
Pule was filled with regret.
He had only intended to use the Rogarios name to car some money, but now he had thrown his life away.
As Marrisa served Stepisamir her soup, she caught sight of the scene and nearly dropped the soup in fear
“What
har’s huppermang here?”
She set the womp down in from of Sephanie, the burned to Robins shakily. “Robin, you should run
Ryder geatly sok Marine by the arm. “Don’t be afraicverything fine
Kolan sad say and put an arm around her shoulders
‘ta om hur anussured Bant
Kyses the and we high and are ‘Oss gou kers
*Mary and sket, but Ryder shock you beach, apologetic. “Marrina, no, I didn’t mean
Marisa was will spoiling tur she turned se Hugh and the others, pleading, 1… FIl faud a way to repay you all aphouse, lepur Koton dosar
“Maddies, please, show a musy this ser. Wie we had no idea is was you.” Hugh and Nico stammeved as they droppard sa dan kauns
Marisa locked around brightened and confused “Mudan
She was so bewildered she couldn’t make sense of a “Tinch, take the restauran–I’ll give it to you, just please.
Hugh and Nico fully underwoveź
organic and Ryder had shown Marriss so much respect since they entered the wiup restaurant.
They candied forward on their knees, pleading to Marrisa, “Marrisa, please ask Mutam Surphanie to forgive us this pror sever to be around for proveren money again.”
Marcia was confund. “Hugh, what are you saying? I dag i understand”
Just ignore the Martina” Robin said, placing a four Hugh’s face
“I would you things would roda ve if you dared cable again.
દા
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Chapter 289 On Your Knees
“Forgive us, Robin, we were wrong! Please ask Madam Stephanie to spare us!”
Robin laughed. “Have you ever forgiven the people who bullied you on the streets? “If Stephanie weren’t here today, would you really have spared Marrisa and Brenda?
“Prepare to face the consequences. The world has always been fair.
“And remember this. Follow the rules in your next life no matter which path you take!
“Take them away!”
The black–clad guards hauled Hugh, Nico, and the others out of the soup restaurant.
Marrisa was stunned and confused.
She couldn’t understand what had come over these notorious bullies.
Her gaze drifted to Robin’s back, and she grew anxious.
What had Robin been involved in all these years?
She rushed over to him, clutching his arm in worry.
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“Robin, did you do anything bad outside all this while? Why are they so afraid of you? What did you do to them?”
Robin chuckled, “Stop overthinking. Just focus on running your soup restaurant.
“Those people won’t be bothering you anymore.”
Stephanie approached Marrisa and handed her a Premium Gold Card from the Rogarios.
“Marrisa, your soup tastes so good. I’ll be coming by often.”
Marrisa’s hands trembled as she accepted the card.
It was a symbol of high status among Terenova’s elite. “This… this is…
Stephanie smiled. “Your soup is worth it.”
11
She then turned to Robin. “Mr. Ramsey, I’ll make a move first.”
Marrisa absentmindedly watched Stephanie, Ryder, and the black–clad guards exit. “Robin … who is she?”
“She’s Stephanie, head of the Rogarios family. She’ll be visiting your soup restaurant often, so you can carry on your business without worry.”
“Marrisa, do you know who she is?” Brenda said excitedly.
“She’s Madam Stephanie, Terenova’s Underground Queen! We don’t have to live in fear anymore.
“And she said she’s sending me to Athena University!”
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Chapter 289 On Your Knees
Marrisa was still in a daze.
She was unable to comprehend how someone so pow Rogarios Premium Gold Card, and offer to send Bren
Just then, two young women peeked inside. “Ms. Dick
“Yes, this place is called Marrisa’s Soup Kitchen!”
They entered the shop and one of them glanced arou
“Excuse me, who’s Marrisa? We’d like two bowls of sou
A woman gasped as she spotted Robin.
“Mr. Ramsey!” she exclaimed and rushed over to him.
Brenda was equally stunned.
“You! Are you ‘her‘?”
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Chapter 289 On Your Knees
Marrisa was still in a daze.
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SAY ON EELIS n
She was unable to comprehend how someone so powerful would come to her shop, give her a prestigious Rogarios Premium Gold Card, and offer to send Brenda to college.
Just then, two young women peeked inside. “Ms. Dickinson, they say the soup here is really good.”
“Yes, this place is called Marrisa’s Soup Kitchen!”
They entered the shop and one of them glanced around.
“Excuse me, who’s Marrisa? We’d like two bowls of soup, please.”
A woman gasped as she spotted Robin.
“Mr. Ramsey!” she exclaimed and rushed over to him. “What a surprise to see you here!”
Brenda was equally stunned.
“You! Are you her?”
Chapter 290 Are You Two Dating?
Chapter 290 Are You Two Dating?
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Brenda was so excited that she couldn’t quite remember the name of the beautiful woman in front of her.
“Oh, right! You’re the actress from… what was it again” She scratched her head in frustration.
Robin laughed at Brenda’s cluelessness and tapped her on the head. “Silly girl, have you lost your mind? She’s lvy!”
“Yes, yes! Ms. Ivy Dickinson, are you really Ms. Dickinson?”
Brenda gasped, standing before Ivy and staring in awe
Ivy gave a polite nod. “Hello.”
Scenes like this were nothing new to Ivy.
Official meet–and–greets could get much more chaotic.
She glanced at Robin, then at Brenda. “Mr. Ramsey, and this is…?”
“This is Brenda, she’s practically like my younger sister Robin said and patted Brenda who was still in awe.
Ivy’s face brightened and she took Brenda’s hand. “Brenda, it’s wonderful to meet you.”
Brenda’s eyes filled with tears of happiness.
She never expected a superstar like Ivy to treat her so kindly.
“What brings you here, Mr. Ramsey?” Ivy asked with a sparkle of curiosity in her
eyes.
“This is my home.” Robin gestured for them to sit down. “Please, make yourselves comfortable.”
“Your home?”
Ivy looked around the humble soup restaurant, then she glanced between Brenda and Marrisa.
She found it hard to believe that Robin was connected to them, though she knew better than to ask too much.
The woman standing next to Ivy eyed Robin’s tall, handsome figure and smiled mischievously.
“Ivy, is he a friend from your past?”
Ivy gave her a small nudge, signaling her to cut the gossip.
“Mr. Ramsey is a friend I met in Draconia,” Ivy replied,
She knew Robin disliked people prying into his life.
And now, with Annie Howell–her fellow cast member here, she definitely couldn’t reveal too much.
Annie glanced at Robin with a smirk and teased, “Ivy, is he your… ?”
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Before she could finish, Ivy’s checks turned red, and she quickly shut her down.
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“Annic, shut it! Be careful! If the paparazzi catch on to your blabber, the agency’s going to be furious.”
Annie rolled her eyes. “Look at you getting all jumpy. I didn’t say anything.”
Then she leaned close to Ivy and whispered, “If he’s not your boyfriend, I just might make a move. Guys this handsome don’t come around every day.”
Ivy nudged her playfully, whispering back, “Don’t you
dare!”
Annie shot a playful look at Robin, then called out, “Two bowls of soup, please!”
Marrisa snapped out of her daze and hurried over. “Oh Right away, ladies. Just a moment.”
Seeing that Robin wasn’t inclined to talk about the place or his family, Ivy changed the subject.
“Mr. Ramsey, we’re here in Terenova for the Terenova Film Festival–it’s the biggest film event in Southeast Aurientia.
“If it’s convenient for you, we’d love for you to join-”
“Oh, I’m not very interested.” Robin cut her off with a polite refusal.
“I sec. Well, that’s a bit disappointing.” Ivy looked momentarily disappointed.
But after a brief pause, she added, “Mr. Ramsey, Leonardo is also attending this year. He’ll be arriving at Terenova Airport at 5 PM …”
She tried mentioning this to keep Robin engaged.
Brenda pulled on Robin’s arm and whispered, “Robin, I want to go. I’ve never seen a film festival before.
“Since Ms. Dickinson is your friend. Could you maybe…”
Seeing that Robin showed no reaction, Brenda stopped halfway, afraid she’d gone too far.
Robin shook his head.
“You’re always curious about everything. Fine. Ms. Dickinson, where is the Terenova Film Festival being held? I’ll go with Brenda.”
Ivy hadn’t expected such a turn and beamed, reaching into her bag to pull out two tickets. “Mr. Ramsey, Brenda, here are the entry passes.
“The festival’s at the film city on Terenova’s outskirts, starting at 7 PM.
“Terenova’s mayor, Douglas, and several of the Demberoa elite families will be there for the opening ceremony.
“Contact me when you arrive, and I’ll meet you.”
Robin waved her off. “I’m just taking Brenda for a look around. We don’t want to interrupt your work. And don’t inform Leonardo either. Understand?”
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Ivy understood Robin’s dislike for social ob
