Chapter 1796

chapter1796

From the start, Annie had been upfront with Errol. He'd heard the rumors too— how she'd cycled through boyfriends over the past two years.

Some relationships ended in a week, while others lasted a month or two. Yet, somehow, he'd held on the longest.

He took a deep breath and smiled. "Alright, let's part on good terms. If you ever miss me, just call. Don't worry; I won't bother you again."

Despite his words, a pang of regret lingered. He couldn't shake the thought that Annie's decision to end things stemmed from his recent misstep-accepting money from the other party without consulting her.

A part of him believed they had a future, even marriage. After all, he'd been the one to stand by her the longest.

"That's fine," Annie replied curtly, unwilling to continue the conversation. She stepped into the elevator, heading for her office floor.

She no longer felt anything for her ex-boyfriend, who had become a distant memory. It was time to set off on her own, to embrace freedom and explore the world. Becoming a travel blogger seemed like a perfect fit.

...

Twelve years passed in the blink of an eye. Jipsburg City transformed during that time. Hughes Group had dethroned the once-dominant Martin Group, which now led the industry.

Clusia, too, had grown rapidly, evolving every five years. Those returning after years abroad often found themselves disoriented by the changes in lifestyle and infrastructure.

For some, the transformations were even more profound. The children who once played in the streets had grown up.

On the outskirts of Jipsburg lay Dewhurst, a quaint town that had become a tourist hotspot.

Vivian, now 18, decided to spend her summer break in Dewhurst. As soon as she checked into her inn, her phone buzzed with a call from Natalie.

"Why'd you go to Dewhurst alone? I could've sent Hadwin with you-he'd keep you safe," Natalie said, her voice laced with concern.

"Don't worry, Mrs. Powell," Vivian laughed. "We live in a lawful society. The inn's nice, and the locks are sturdy. Honestly, if Hadwin came, I'd probably end up protecting him I'll only be here a week; then it's back to school for some experiments."

Since Joe and Skylar's disappearance during a hike two years ago, everyone had gone out of their way to care for Vivian. She'd been devastated by their loss, her heart heavy with grief.

Viola had been her anchor during those dark days, offering reassurance that she'd reunite with her parents someday.

Viola had never lied to her, and with her guidance, Vivian had navigated countless dangers alongside Joe and Skylar.

Even so, when the pair vanished, no trace was ever found despite an extensive police search.

Vivian had thrown herself into academics, skipping grades since middle school. At just 18, she was already a college senior.

Recalling Vivian's resilience, Natalie

felt a mix of pride and worry. Vivian wasn't helpless-if trouble arose, she'd likely be the one protecting others. Still, Natalie couldn't help but fret. After all, Skylar and Joe...

A heavy sigh escaped Natalie. Even after three years, the thought still brought a sharp pain to her heart. She gently reminded Vivian, "Dewhurst has changed a lot in recent years. It's beautiful, but holidays bring crowds. Be careful, and if anything happens, call me or Hadwin, okay?"