Chapter 1031: An Unexpected Intervention
Principal Smith quickly reminded Inspector Chang, “Wife?”
Inspector Chang took a closer look, and his eyes widened instantly. “How did you get injured like this?”
“It’s all his… that man did it all!” Mrs. Chang trembled as she pointed at Dustin.
“It’s you?” Inspector Chang’s gaze turned cold as he looked at Dustin. “Did you assault my wife?”
“It was me,” Dustin nodded, admitting it openly. “This shrew was bullying others, so I taught her a lesson.”
“You’re quite bold! How dare you teach my woman a lesson?” Inspector Chang’s expression grew stern, and his eyes held an unfriendly glint. “Tell me, how do you intend to resolve this matter?”
In this region, everyone was expected to show him some respect. Anyone who dared to harm his wife must either have a powerful background or be extremely reckless. Without knowing Dustin’s identity, he still tried to leave some room for negotiation and didn’t immediately jump to conclusions.
“Have this shrew apologize to us, and I won’t pursue today’s events any further,” Dustin replied calmly.
“What? An apology?” When this statement left his mouth, everyone present was astonished. Was this person out of his mind? He had just assaulted someone, and now he wanted an apology? What was even more astounding was that he made this demand in front of Inspector Chang, as if he was disregarding the inspector’s presence.
“You rascal! Do you know what you’re saying?” Before Inspector Chang could respond, Principal Smith, who couldn’t hold back any longer, yelled, “This is Inspector Chang from the patrol room! He’s equivalent to ten thousand people! How dare you act so insolently in front of Inspector Chang? It seems you’re tired of living!”
Inspector Chang held a high rank in the patrol room and wielded tremendous influence. A single word from him could determine the fate of ordinary individuals.
“This scoundrel is extremely audacious! Quick, capture him! Subject him to the harshest interrogation!” Mrs. Chang ground her teeth, displaying a hateful expression that made Dustin want to tear her apart.
“Young man! How dare you be so audacious after assaulting someone? What makes you so confident?” Inspector Chang squinted his eyes, growing increasingly irritated.
“You requested a resolution, and I provided you with one. Are you still dissatisfied?” Dustin retorted.
“Hmph! Since you’re so impudent, don’t blame me for handling this matter impartially!” Inspector Chang waved his hand and shouted, “Come here! Arrest this man and put him behind bars!”
“Yes, sir!” Several patrol officers stepped forward, ready to arrest him, pulling out their handcuffs.
“Wait!” At this moment, Natasha, who had been observing the situation coldly, suddenly stepped forward.
Her exquisite appearance and impeccable demeanor instantly captured everyone’s attention.
“Natasha… Miss Natasha Harmon?” Inspector Chang’s pupils contracted, an inexplicable unease settling in.
Why was the daughter of the Harmon Family here?
“Inspector Chang, I witnessed the entire incident clearly. It was your wife who initiated the physical altercation. If anyone should be arrested, it should be her!” Natasha stated icily.
“Ridiculous! Where did this woman come from? How dare she point fingers at Inspector Chang?” Principal Smith glared at her and threatened, “I advise you to stay out of this, or I’ll have you arrested as well!”
As soon as he finished speaking, Inspector Chang slapped Principal Smith hard across the face and scolded him, “What’s wrong with you? Why did you say that? Apologize to Miss Natasha Harmon immediately!”
Chapter 1032: A Battle of Words and Influence
“Ah?” Principal Smith was stunned, his face still burning from the slap, and he felt a bit bewildered. He had defended Mrs. Chang, but now he was being slapped.
“What are you standing there for? Apologize!” Inspector Chang slapped him once more with his backhand.
The Harmons are intimidating, and the little kindergarten principal is a better scapegoat.
“Yes, I apologize…” Principal Smith muttered with a dejected look.
Though he didn’t understand the situation, it was evident that this woman had significant influence. Otherwise, Inspector Chang wouldn’t react so strongly.
“Miss Natasha Harmon, I’m terribly sorry. I didn’t see you earlier,” Inspector Chang said with a smile on his face, feeling the need to salvage the situation. “May I ask what brings you here?”
“This is my husband, and this is my goddaughter,” Natasha replied without hesitation. “Your wife assaulted my goddaughter, and in self-defense, my husband intervened. I believe this can be classified as self-defense, don’t you agree?”
“What?” Inspector Chang was taken aback for a moment but soon nodded vigorously. “Yes, yes, it was self-defense! I was hasty earlier and almost misunderstood a good Samaritan. It’s all my wife’s fault, and I apologize to everyone on her behalf. From now on, I’ll make sure to discipline her properly.”
“Discipline?” Dustin interjected, “What we want is that the person who committed the mistake should apologize.”
“This gentleman is suggesting that the one at fault should apologize?” Inspector Chang said with a strained smile.
Dustin then made it clear, “We don’t need your apology, Mr Inspector. Your wife should apologize herself.”
“What this gentleman is saying is that the person who made the mistake should offer a personal apology,” Inspector Chang reiterated.
Mrs. Chang, however, was uncooperative. She pushed Inspector Chang away, pointed at him, and berated, “You coward! When your wife and child were being bullied, you didn’t step in to help. Now you want me to apologize? What kind of man are you?”
“Shut up!” Inspector Chang scolded her, his patience wearing thin. “This is Miss Natasha Harmon’s daughter! Watch your words!”
“What if she’s Miss Natasha Harmon’s daughter? I’m not afraid!” Mrs. Chang retorted fiercely. “Even when the Harmon Family was at its peak, I wouldn’t be afraid! Don’t forget, my younger brother holds a high position in Stonia. What’s a mere Harmon Family to us?”
“You, you… can you be more cautious with your words?” Inspector Chang was growing increasingly anxious and kept signaling her.
In reality, her brother-in-law was working a part-time government job in Stonia, but he was essentially a well-off kid living off his family’s wealth. He had no real power, only relying on connections and money. Once he lost those, he’d be helpless.
Ultimately, people had to possess genuine abilities to make it in the world. Relying solely on looks to get by wouldn’t last long.
“I’ll say it if I want to!” Mrs. Chang placed her hands on her hips, appearing utterly defiant. “You’re too timid to defend us, so I’ll contact my brother to teach these narrow-minded people a lesson in person!”
“That’s enough! Don’t blow this out of proportion!” Inspector Chang had a headache.
“If it becomes a big deal, so be it! Who’s afraid of whom?” Mrs. Chang disregarded him and immediately dialed for help on her phone. Afterward, she taunted, “If you’re not a coward, don’t run away. Cowards are bastards!”
“Alright, I’ll wait for you. Let’s see who you can call.” Natasha responded with a stern expression. In all of Millsburg, there weren’t many people with higher authority than her grandfather.
Chapter 1033: A Chance Encounter
Inside a fancy Western restaurant, several elegantly dressed young men and women were enjoying their evening together, sipping on drinks and engaging in lively conversation.
“Sister Dahlia, you’re reallyDustincky. Becoming Lord Eugene Montgomery’s goddaughter is a remarkable achievement!” exclaimed a cheerful woman dressed in red, her enthusiasm shining through.
Meet Victoria Sterling, the legitimate daughter of the Sterling family, one of the most affluent clans in Stonia!
“I heard Lord Eugene Montgomery has been away at war for years and has no heirs. The fact that he chose you as his goddaughter proves your exceptional qualities, both in terms of ability and integrity,” chimed in a man with slicked-back hair and a rosy complexion. This charismatic figure was none other than Aiden Mitchell, Victoria Sterling’s boyfriend.
“Sister Dahlia, can you tell us how you and Lord Eugene Montgomery crossed paths?” Victoria Sterling couldn’t contain her curiosity.
After all, Lord Eugene Montgomery had always lived in seclusion, maintained an aloof demeanor, and never formed any close associations. His sudden appearance in the Millsburg and his decision to take on a goddaughter had sent shockwaves throughout Stonia’s elite circles.
“It’s actually quite a simple story,” Dahlia began, taking a sip of her red wine. “Five days ago, I stumbled upon a car accident right outside my house. The driver was critically injured, and I rushed him to the hospital. To my surprise, that person turned out to be Lord Eugene Montgomery.”
“Huh? That’s it?” Victoria Sterling looked momentarily puzzled, expecting a more dramatic tale.
She had anticipated a hidden secret, but it seemed that Dahlia’s relationship with Lord Eugene Montgomery was based solely on a chance act of kindness.
“And if not?” Dahlia shrugged nonchalantly. To her, saving a life was merely an accident, and her newfound status as a goddaughter was due to various factors.
“But why would Lord Eugene Montgomery, known for his courage, end up in a car accident?” Victoria Sterling murmured, sensing something amiss.
“Miss Victoria, you invited me here to discuss business, didn’t you?” Dahlia asked pointedly. “Why veer into personal matters?”
Victoria Sterling quickly recovered, offering a forced smile as she shot a knowing glance at Aiden Mitchell.
He immediately grasped her cue and presented a document with both hands. “Miss Dahlia, this is our proposed cooperation plan. Please take a look.”
“Two billion?” Dahlia raised her eyebrows in surprise as she examined the document. “Miss Victoria, you’re incredibly generous. This deal practically hands me money on a silver platter.”
“It’s just two billion, nothing more. As long as you’re happy, consider us friends,” Victoria Sterling replied with a warm smile.
For a wealthy family like hers, two billion was a drop in the bucket. But using this investment to establish a connection with Lord Eugene Montgomery could yield colossal returns.
“Alright, since Miss Victoria is so sincere, I look forward to a fruitful partnership,” Dahlia said, reaching out her hand.
“Here’s to a successful collaboration!” Victoria Sterling enthusiastically shook her hand, sealing the deal.
Suddenly, a cellphone rang, interrupting their conversation.
Aiden Mitchell’s face darkened as he answered the call. “What? An altercation at the kindergarten? Alright, I’m on my way. Sis, just wait. I’ll handle this for you today!”
Victoria Sterling, still puzzled, inquired, “What’s gotten into you? Why the sudden rush?”
” Victoria, some local troublemakers got into a brawl with my sister at her kindergarten. I have to go check it out,” Aiden Mitchell explained.
“Go ahead, but don’t be too long,” Victoria Sterling waved dismissively. Dealing with a small-time local thug was child’s play for someone like him.
Chapter 1034: An Unexpected Turn of Events
Half an hour passed by as Victoria Sterling and Dahlia continued their conversation. However, their pleasant evening was disrupted by an unexpected phone call.
Victoria hastily answered the call and rushed back with a trembling voice, “Woooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo-
“What? You got beaten up too?”
Victoria Sterling’s brow furrowed. “What happened? Didn’t I send two bodyguards with you?”
Her bodyguards were carefully selected, and they should have easily handled even a local troublemaker.
“These two were utterly useless. They were beaten down as soon as the fight started. I didn’t stand a chance either,” Aiden Mitchell complained, sounding quite aggrieved.
“Did you mention the Sterling family’s name?” Victoria Sterling asked.
“Of course I did, but this guy just kept on beating me!” Aiden Mitchell replied, still shaken.
“What? He showed no respect for the Sterling family?” Victoria Sterling’s eyebrows shot up in anger. “How dare he defy us for the sake of a mere local thug? Just wait, I’m heading there right now!”
“Alright, hurry, I’ll try to hold him off,” Aiden Mitchell agreed.
“…”
“Miss Victoria, it seems you’re facing some trouble. Would you like my assistance?” Dahlia offered unexpectedly.
“It’s a minor issue, not worth bothering with. But if you’re interested, Sister Dahlia, you can accompany me to deal with it,” Victoria Sterling suggested with a smile.
“Sure, I have some free time anyway. Let’s go together, Miss Victoria,” Dahlia agreed with a nod.
After all, they had just struck a deal for two billion, so a little understanding and flexibility wouldn’t hurt.
Leaving the restaurant, they summoned a few bodyguards and headed straight to Golden Apple Kindergarten.
Meanwhile, inside Golden Apple Kindergarten:
Aiden Mitchell, his nose bruised and face swollen, huddled in a corner with Mrs. Chang, trembling with fear.
Initially, when he had arrived, Aiden Mitchell had flaunted his newfound power, acting like a boss and pulling rank as though he were invincible.
However, after only a few slaps, the illusion of his superiority had crumbled.
A proud man had been reduced to tears, beaten and broken.
“Kid! Don’t you dare run away! My backer is on the way, and you’ll be in for a world of hurt when they arrive!” Aiden Mitchell, although sobbing, was far from conceding defeat.
Ever since he’d become involved with the Sterling family’s daughter, he had believed he was on top of the world and treated everyone with condescension.
Yet, the person before him had shown no regard for the Sterling family’s influence and had slapped him without hesitation. It was an affront he couldn’t bear!
“What? You’ve had enough? How many more slaps do you want?” Dustin raised his hand, and Aiden Mitchell cowered behind his sister, shouting inwardly, “Kid! You might be bold now, but you’ll cry later!”
“That’s right! I want to see you cry!” Mrs. Chang joined in.
“Everyone, let’s calm down. In my opinion, we should just let this go and avoid escalating the situation,” Inspector Chang attempted to mediate.
Though he favored his wife, he couldn’t afford to offend the Harmon Family. Thus, he tried to reason with both sides.
“Shut up, you good-for-nothing!” Aiden Mitchell, finding an outlet for his anger, lashed out. “My sister and I got beaten up, and you, the so-called protector, stood idly by. You’re nothing but a coward! I won’t allow you to be my brother-in-law any longer. Tomorrow, you’re divorcing my sister!”
“Divorce! I’ll divorce him tomorrow!” Mrs. Chang added, her indignation apparent.
Having such a spineless husband was an immense stroke of badDustinck for her.
“You…you’re being unreasonable!” Inspector Chang was starting to look bewildered.
It was one thing to be arrogant in everyday life, but Aiden Mitchell had utterly no sense of perspective.
Aside from San Jueding and a few shadow guards behind the scenes, who could resist the Harmon Family’s influence in the area?
“Step aside! Make way!” While the commotion continued, several burly bodyguards suddenly entered the scene.
Chapter 1035: Clash of the Titans
As they moved through the crowd, the burly bodyguards forcefully cleared a path, creating a spacious area for Victoria Sterling’s grand entrance.
Dressed like a princess, Victoria Sterling, with her stunning looks, opulent attire, and the air of aristocracy cultivated since childhood, unmistakably appeared to be of a noble lineage.
“Victoria! You’re finally here!” Aiden Mitchell’s eyes lit up when he saw her, and he rushed to greet her, tearfully saying, “Look at my face, it’s been battered! You have to make a decision for me this time!”
“Hmm?” Victoria Sterling extended her hand and pinched Aiden Mitchell’s chin, scanning the surroundings. Her face darkened swiftly. “Who did this to you?!”
Her criteria for her man were threefold: he had to be handsome, strong, and make her happy. Aiden Mitchell’s once-handsome face, now marred by bruises, felt like a violation of her personal property, and she couldn’t tolerate it.
“It was him!” Aiden Mitchell pointed at Dustin with venom in his voice. “He’s the one who attacked me and even threatened to take you down!”
“Oh?” Victoria Sterling observed him and retorted sharply, “Anyone who dares to disrespect me? You must be quite audacious!”
“Where did you crawl out from?” Dustin looked at her with impatience. This felt like a never-ending game of whack-a-mole, with another challenger popping up after each defeat.
“What impudence!” Aiden Mitchell retorted, glaring. “Do you even know who she is? Let me enlighten you: she’s the daughter of the Sterling family, one of Stonia’s top elites!”
This revelation sent shockwaves through the crowd. “The Sterling family of Stonia? They’re a wealthy and powerful family!”
“Why would someone from the Sterling family come to our small town?”
“This guy’s in big trouble now! He’s offended Miss Victoria. He’s going to regret it!”
As people whispered among themselves, they were not only surprised by Victoria Sterling’s identity but also felt a growing sense of sympathy for Dustin.
The elite from Stonia seemed to exist on a different plane altogether in Millsburg.
“Boy, are you trembling with fear yet? Are your legs shaking?” Aiden Mitchell taunted, puffing up his chest with pride.
With the backing of the Sterling family, he could certainly afford to be cocky.
“Humph! You were quite bold earlier. Why so quiet now? What a coward!” Mrs. Chang also gloated.
“You asked for this! This is what happens when you cross Mrs. Chang. Let’s see how you suffer next!” Principal Smith sneered, his eyes gleaming with schadenfreude.
Those who dared to challenge the powerful should be prepared for the consequences. By provoking the elite, they were inviting their own destruction.
“The one who hit me must pay the price,” Victoria Sterling declared with an icy and haughty demeanor. “I command you to cut off your own hands and then kneel before my boyfriend in apology. Only then will I consider sparing your life.”
“Idiot!” Dustin retorted, not mincing words. “Who do you think you are? Daring to flaunt your power in front of me? Leave immediately, or I won’t hesitate to teach you a lesson!”
“You… What did you say?” Victoria Sterling was taken aback, finding it hard to believe her ears.
Had she misheard him? Who dared to speak to her like this?
“Didn’t you hear me clearly? Fine, I’ll repeat it,” Dustin took two steps forward, raised his voice, and enunciated each word, “Get out of here right now, or I’ll give you a taste of my fists!”
Chapter 1036: The Power of Resolve
“Arrogant!”
“Presumptuous!”
Dustin’s audacious words instantly ignited the anger of Aiden Mitchell and the others.
How dare he show such disrespect to the daughter of the Sterling family? He was clearly courting trouble!
“You… How dare you tell me to leave?”
After a moment of shock, Victoria Sterling became furious. “You lowlife! You’re utterly impudent and reckless! Today, I’ll teach you a lesson! Someone, get him!”
“Yes!”
Immediately, several bodyguardsDustinnged at Dustin without hesitation.
“Bang, bang, bang…”
In the blink of an eye, figures flashed, and the bodyguards who had rushed forward were sent flying one after another, crashing to the ground unconscious.
“Ah?”
The sudden turn of events left everyone dumbfounded.
It had all happened so quickly that they couldn’t even comprehend it. From Victoria Sterling’s order to the bodyguards’ attack and subsequent incapacitation, it had taken no more than two or three seconds.
The entire battle had concluded before their eyes could even register what had transpired.
It was simply astonishing.
“How about it? Do you still wish to continue?” Dustin remained composed, showing no emotion, as if he hadn’t moved at all.
“Who the hell are you, kid?!”
Aiden Mitchell involuntarily took a step back.
Damn, he had thought that Victoria Sterling’s bodyguards would be formidable, but they had been defeated with ease.
What a waste!
“Indeed, with so many Sterling family bodyguards, they couldn’t even handle this one untouchable?”
Mrs. Chang and Principal Smith exchanged bewildered glances, their eyes filled with surprise.
Even Victoria Sterling herself appeared somewhat uneasy at this point.
Her personal bodyguards were all elite individuals who had undergone rigorous training.
Normally, they could take on ten opponents each, so why couldn’t they handle even one untouchable now?
“Sir Dustin, perhaps it’s best if we leave. There’s no need to make a scene,” Cecilia whispered, attempting to dissuade him.
She didn’t want Dustin to create too many enemies on her behalf. Although the Kirin Gang was formidable, it was clear that the Sterling family held even greater power. Continuing to provoke them could lead to dire consequences.
“Leave? That’s wishful thinking!” Victoria Sterling suddenly blocked the exit, her tone stern. “People who dare to fight me think they can just walk away? Today, I will teach you a lesson! Someone, apprehend him!”
“Understood!”
Several bodyguards moved forward once again to seize Dustin.
“Bang, bang, bang…”
In an instant, figures darted around, and the bodyguards were sent flying one after another, landing heavily on the ground in a state of unconsciousness.
“What? You want more?” Dustin asked coldly.
“Humph! I know you have some skills, but so what? In this world, it’s not personal strength that matters, but power and status!” Victoria Sterling raised her head proudly, her tone cold and arrogant. “Now, I’ll give you another chance. Cut off your own hands and kneel to apologize to my boyfriend. Only then will I spare your life. Otherwise, disaster will befall you soon!”
The Sterling family had an abundance of skilled fighters, too numerous to count. Though the man before her possessed good martial arts, he was insignificant compared to true masters.
“Boy! Don’t think that defeating a few bodyguards makes you impressive. It’s easy to fight a few, but can you contend with hundreds or thousands of people? If you’re wise, you’ll surrender now. Otherwise, you’ll soon regret it when the Sterling family takes revenge!” Aiden Mitchell shouted.
“It’s ridiculous! A lowlife like you thinks you can challenge a prestigious family from Stonia?” Mrs. Chang and Principal Smith sneered.
No matter how strong an individual might be, compared to a wealthy family, they were as insignificant as an ant before a mountain.
“My patience is limited. If you don’t leave now, don’t blame me for taking action,” Dustin warned, growing impatient.
“Do it?”
Victoria Sterling sneered. “Come on, then. Are you itching to touch me? Let’s see if you have the guts!”
As soon as she uttered the word “guts,” Dustin raised his hand and delivered a resounding slap to Victoria Sterling’s face.
“Snap!”
The sound was crisp, and the force of the slap left Victoria Sterling feeling dizzy and struggling to maintain her balance. Fortunately, Aiden Mitchell caught her, preventing her from falling.
“You’re really intolerable!”
Chapter 1037: The Arrival of an Unexpected Guest
Dustin wore an expression of discontent. He generally didn’t pay much attention to women, but dealing with a shrew was a different story.
“Well…”
The sight of Victoria Sterling, who had been slapped, left everyone in shock and disbelief.
Was this guy insane?
Even if he had fought the Sterling family’s bodyguards, how could he dare to strike the daughter of the Sterling family?
She was the legitimate daughter of a wealthy family!
One of the top elites in Stonia!
Striking such a prominent figure openly—was he trying to court disaster?
Or did this guy genuinely fear nothing?!
“How dare you hit me?”
Victoria Sterling covered her burning face, her eyes filled with disbelief. She had never been struck by anyone, let alone publicly slapped in the face. It was a tremendous humiliation.
“Hey! Why do you keep repeating the same thing? Can’t you come up with something new?” Dustin couldn’t help but remark.
“I… I’ll fight you!” Victoria Sterling yelled,Dustinnging toward Dustin with her teeth bared and claws out.
“Victoria! Calm down! Calm down!” Aiden Mitchell quickly intervened and held her back.
Rushing forward would only invite more trouble.
“That’s enough!”
At that moment, a woman with delicate features, starry eyes, and a stunningly beautiful face walked in through the door.
This woman possessed both beauty and an impeccable figure. Her cool and refreshing aura was akin to a soothing breeze on a hot summer day, making people feel at ease.
“Dahlia?”
Upon seeing the woman, Dustin’s pupils contracted, revealing a hint of surprise. He hadn’t expected to encounter her here.
“What a small world!” Natasha, who was standing behind Dustin, couldn’t help but scrunch up her nose and feel a bit disgruntled. She had initially crossed her arms, as if she were watching a spectacle. However, Dahlia’s appearance prompted her to take things more seriously.
As her greatest romantic rival in this lifetime, she had to be cautious. It wouldn’t be good if her love rival managed to steal her man.
“Dahlia, why are you here, sticking your nose into this mess?” Natasha stepped forward and stared intently at her romantic rival, her tone somewhat confrontational.
Two stunningly beautiful women, each with a different temperament but equally captivating, stood together, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Even the bystanders were momentarily stunned.
“Who are you? Do I know you?” Dahlia asked, her expression cold as she scanned Natasha from head to toe.
“Hey! Miss Dahlia is so noble and forgetful. It hasn’t been that long since we last met, and you don’t even remember who I am?” Natasha raised her eyebrows.
“Have we met before? I don’t recall it,” Dahlia replied, her brow furrowing slightly as her confusion deepened.
“Playing dumb, huh? You’re really good at it. It seems you genuinely don’t take me seriously!” Natasha’s demeanor turned frosty, and she exuded an air of regality.
“Natasha…”
Dustin, who was behind her, tugged at Natasha’s sleeve and whispered, “She has amnesia, and she can’t remember many things.”
“Amnesia?”
Natasha’s beautiful eyes widened, displaying a hint of surprise. “Is that true?”
“It’s absolutely true,” Dustin affirmed, nodding solemnly. “Not only has she forgotten you, but she’s also forgotten me. Most of her memories from the past three years are gone.”
“What? She’s forgotten you too? Haha… That’s fantastic!” Natasha couldn’t help but burst into laughter. However, when she saw Dustin’s peculiar expression, she suppressed her amusement and pretended to sigh, saying, “Oh, it’s truly pitiful. How did she lose her memory so thoroughly? Is it really true? Such a pity… such a pity… hehe…”
Chapter 1038: A Bewildering Encounter
“What are you two whispering about?” Dahlia’s expression grew even more puzzled as she observed Natasha’s erratic behavior.
Is this woman insane?
“It’s nothing, really. I just mistook someone for another person. My apologies.” Natasha forced a smile and offered an apology, choosing not to pursue the issue further.
What could she do?
Engaging in an argument with someone with amnesia was pointless, after all.
“Baffling,” Dahlia muttered to herself with a furrowed brow.
Even though she didn’t recognize the woman in front of her, something about her demeanor felt unsettling.
Dahlia gave her a sidelong glance before directing her attention towards Dustin. “Wait a minute… you look familiar. Have we met before?”
“Huh?”
Dahlia’s statement caught Natasha off guard. She was supposed to have amnesia—how was she suddenly recalling things now?
Is she playing games with me?
“You remember me?” Dustin was equally surprised and perplexed.
“Oh, I remember now. You’re the insurance salesman,” Dahlia said after a moment of contemplation.
A while back, this man had tried to sell insurance at the hospital but had been unceremoniously ejected by her mother.
“Yes, I sell insurance,” Dustin confirmed with a nonchalant nod.
It seemed that Dahlia had truly forgotten the events of the past, which was just as well.
They were strangers to each other, and it was better that way.
“Hmph! I thought he was some powerful individual, but it turns out he’s just a handsome insurance salesman!”
“A bottom-tier commoner dares to challenge Miss Victoria? He’s clearly seeking his own doom!”
“Even with a net worth in the hundreds of millions, I wouldn’t dare raise my voice here. It’s absurd for an insurance salesman to be so audacious!”
Once they learned of Dustin’s identity, everyone resumed their chatter. Aiden Mitchell, Mrs. Chang, Principal Smith, and others regarded him with disdain and condescension, as if they were looking at a fool.
Their previous apprehension, thinking that Dustin might have influential connections, had been replaced by scorn upon discovering that he was nothing more than a pretentious insurance salesman.
“Sister Dahlia, are you familiar with this insurance salesman?” Victoria Sterling asked cautiously.
“I’ve only met him once, so I wouldn’t say we’re familiar,” Dahlia replied with a shake of her head.
“That’s good then.” Victoria Sterling secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Meanwhile, her gaze toward Dustin became even more malevolent.
If the two of them were acquainted, she would need to be cautious. But since they weren’t, she no longer felt the need to hold back when seeking revenge.
“I’d like to offer some advice. Apologize to Miss Victoria immediately. There might still be room for resolution regarding today’s events,” Dahlia suggested.
“Apologize? She’s not worth it.” Dustin responded calmly.
“Hmm?” Dahlia’s brow furrowed slightly. “I’m offering you friendly advice. Miss Victoria’s family is powerful, and she’s not someone you should mess with. Don’t ruin your life over a petty dispute.”
Stonia’s wealthy families were insurmountable behemoths for ordinary individuals. Crossing a wealthy family’s heir could lead to a miserable end.
“Thank you for the advice, but I’m not concerned,” Dustin replied with a nonchalant shrug.
“Have I not made myself clear enough? Offending Miss Victoria will lead to your demise!” Dahlia said with a stern expression.
Why was this person so stubborn and ignorant?
Chapter 1039: A Defiant Stand
“You’ve made your point, and I’ve heard you loud and clear. However, all of you are mistaken about one thing. I’m not afraid of the Sterling family; in fact, the Sterling family should be afraid of me,” Dustin stated stoically.
Laughter erupted among the onlookers.
“The Sterling family should be afraid of you? Hahaha… Did you take the wrong medication, kid? Do you even comprehend what you’re saying?”
“An insurance salesman dares to utter such arrogant words! He truly doesn’t know his place!”
“Ignorant! It seems like he doesn’t understand the caliber of the opponent he’s offended!”
The crowd shook their heads and pointed, making Dustin appear foolish.
“Stubborn,” Dahlia murmured, shaking her head slightly. “I’ve given you a chance. Since you don’t know how to appreciate it, I’ll leave it at that.”
Normally, she wouldn’t have gotten involved at all, and she had no idea what had transpired today.
“I don’t need you to give me a chance, and we have the upper hand now. We’re in a hurry, and at worst, we’ll die!” Natasha asserted forcefully.
In terms of looks, both sides were equally attractive, but when it came to presence, she had the upper hand.
“How audacious! Why are you speaking to Sister Dahlia like this? Do you even know who she is?” Victoria Sterling shouted indignantly.
As the goddaughter of Lord Eugene Montgomery, revealing her true identity would shake the world!
“Let’s not interfere in this matter,” Dahlia stated indifferently. She wasn’t one to push herself into others’ affairs or argue over trivial matters.
“It’s better if you don’t interfere; otherwise, you might get hurt,” Natasha said with a slight smile. “Husband, let’s ignore these people and go home for a meal.”
With that, she took Dustin in one hand and held Haley in the other, strolling out of the kindergarten in a relaxed manner.
Even though Dahlia had lost her memory, it was best for both parties to minimize their interactions.
With today’s advanced medical technology, what if her memories suddenly returned?
No, she needed to fast-track this process before Dahlia regained her memory!
If there was no other option, she might even resort to alcohol-induced memory loss!
“Damn it…”
Victoria Sterling gritted her teeth in frustration as she watched them leave.
She was currently too powerless to do anything. Her first step was to request reinforcements from her family before she could deal with that troublesome couple.
“Aiden Mitchell, where did that woman come from? How dare she be so arrogant?” She turned to ask.
“I heard her surname is Harmon. She seems to be from the Harmon Family and wields significant influence here,” Aiden Mitchell promptly replied.
“The Harmon Family? Hmph! They’re just local nouveau riche, lording over this small place. Compared to the wealthy families in Stonia, they’re worlds apart!” Victoria Sterling sneered.
Stonia was the capital of the Balermo, a city where heroes congregated and stood above all else.
Even a second-tier power from Stonia could dominate the Millsburg, let alone a wealthy family like the Sterlings.
In her eyes, the Harmon Family was utterly insignificant.
“What’s going on? Why do my emotions feel so turbulent?”
Watching Dustin and Natasha depart, Dahlia inexplicably experienced discomfort.
It was a sensation that defied explanation, as if something had been taken away.
Very strange.
“Sister Dahlia, what are you looking at? You don’t want to help that person, do you?” Victoria Sterling inquired cautiously.
“I won’t get involved in your affairs,” Dahlia replied, shaking her head.
“I’m simply reminding you that there’s no reason for such a small character to catch your attention.”
Victoria Sterling smiled lightly and winked at Aiden Mitchell. “Hurry to Stonia and call for reinforcements. I can’t let this slide today!”
Chapter 1040: Tragic Accident
On the drive back, Dustin was behind the wheel while Natasha sat in the passenger seat. In the back, Cecilia and Haley were seated.
“Haley, if anyone bullies you again in the future, remember to tell your godmother, and she will take care of them for you, okay?” Natasha spoke while using a wet tissue to wipe dirt from Haley’s face.
“Yes, I understand,” Haley responded seriously.
“Haley, starting tomorrow, your godfather will teach you martial arts, okay?” Dustin proposed earnestly. “If anyone dares to bully you, you can defend yourself; if you want to bully, you can also defend yourself!”
“What are you talking about?” Natasha chided. “Learning martial arts is difficult, and we don’t want our baby to be exhausted. Besides, girls shouldn’t be focused on fighting. Learning some piano, chess, calligraphy, and painting would be more suitable.”
“Too many skills are unnecessary. Learning some basic self-defense would be beneficial,” Dustin explained. “Starting martial arts training early is essential.”
“To be honest, darling, you should focus on cultivating a wide range of skills, not just martial arts. After all, you’re a girl, and you should be well-rounded,” Natasha insisted.
Haley interjected, “I will listen to godmother.”
“Okay, if that’s what you prefer. When you’re a bit older, your godmother will arrange things for you,” Natasha assured, gently patting Haley’s head.
Seeing their lighthearted conversation, Cecilia felt her eyes well up with tears. She had witnessed Dustin and Natasha’s actions countless times before, and with such protective godparents, Haley’s life would be bright and secure.
“Honey, since we’re already out, would you like to eat something outside?” Natasha suggested, turning to Dustin. “Haley, what would you like to eat?”
“I want French fries and a burger, is that okay?” Haley asked with a tilted head.
“Of course, no problem. Godmother will treat you to as many as you want today!” Natasha responded with a slight smile.
“Great! I get to have French fries and a burger!” Haley cheered with excitement.
Dustin and Natasha shared a knowing glance, understanding the simple joy that children found in such treats.
Suddenly, Natasha’s expression changed as she glanced to the side and shouted, “Honey, be careful!”
“Huh?” Dustin’s eyebrows furrowed as he turned his head.
A large truck was suddenly running a red light, seemingly out of control, and heading straight toward them.
In the nick of time, Dustin swerved the car in an attempt to avoid a collision. However, the large truck accelerated rather than braking and crashed into the side of their vehicle.
“Boom!”
A deafening crash echoed through the air.
The car was sent tumbling, rolling multiple times before coming to a halt more than ten meters away.
A long skid mark was left on the road, and car debris was strewn everywhere.
The entire incident unfolded in a flash, leaving no time for reaction.
Instinctively, Dustin had used his body to shield Natasha at the last moment.
Even so, Natasha had suffered a blow to the head and various contusions from the impact and subsequent rolling. Her body was covered in scratches.
“Natasha, are you okay?” Dustin’s expression shifted.
“I… I’m fine… Hurry, check on Haley!” Natasha shouted weakly.
“Haley?”
Dustin twisted to look at the back seat.
In the rear, Haley was already unconscious, hanging upside down with his head down and feet up. His right arm was twisted and broken, two ribs were fractured, blood was flowing from his mouth and nose, and he had numerous shards of glass embedded in his body. It was clear that he was severely injured.
However, Haley wasn’t the only one in a bad state; Cecilia was also faring poorly.
