Chapter 9

Seeing how Doria readily admitted it, Bernice's expression turned grim. Initially, Bernice pondered if there might be a misunderstanding, but now everything seemed to align with Darlene's account. Besides hooking up with another woman soon after the divorce, Andrew's harsh treatment toward her family deeply upset her. Bernice coldly snapped, "I don't care what the relationship between you two is, but you have to apologize to Favian. Because of our history together, I'll overlook the rest." Bernice's cold demeanor left Andrew disheartened. With a self-deprecating smile, he retorted, "So that's how you see me? Before you demand an apology, perhaps you should find out what they did first." Andrew's response made Bernice pause. She knew Darlene's character and suspected there was more to the story. Blocking Andrew's path, Bernice called Darlene in front of him. Initially hesitant, Darlene eventually divulged upon learning of Andrew's presence, admitting to attempting to snatch his emerald pendant necklace. Even though Darlene downplayed the event, Bernice had pretty much guessed what had happened. She felt caught in a dilemma. The necklace was an engagement token from Andrew's parents, and it was the only keepsake from his mother as well. It carried a lot of sentimental value for him. "My mother and Favian were unaware of the necklace's importance to you. Furthermore, it remains in possession. Regardless of the specifics, resorting to violence, especially against elders, is unwarranted." Although Bernice acknowledged her mother's wrongdoing, she couldn't shake off the discomfort. While Andrew emerged unscathed, Darlene had been the victim of an unprovoked attack, a fact that weighed heavily on Bernice's mind. Doria had heard enough. "If we're ignoring the facts, then what else is there to say? Your family is a mess—disrespectful, thieving, and now audaciously demanding explanations? Andrew is mine now. Show some self-respect and leave us alone." Doria showed no restraint with her words, exuding a cold and intimidating air that put Bernice in her place. "Yours? It appears you haven't known each other for long, so it might be premature to make such declarations. Judging by your attire and demeanor, you seem to come from a respectable background. I'd suggest carefully considering your decision before proceeding. The man you're involved with may not be as straightforward as he seems." For three years, Andrew had presented himself to Bernice as a family-oriented and composed individual with no apparent connections. To her, he seemed unremarkable and lacking in resolve. Recent events, however, unveiled Andrew's conniving and manipulative nature, traits previously unbeknownst to Bernice. "Let's go, honey. It's not worth arguing with someone like her." Ignoring Bernice, Doria held Andrew's arm and proceeded into the yard. As they brushed past Bernice, a flash of white caught her eye—a marriage certificate peeking from Doria's pocket. Bernice's keen eye caught Andrew's name. Andrew had actually married that woman! Bernice's breath hitched as she struggled to process reality. Bernice had just divorced Andrew, and in no time at all, he had gotten married to another woman—one who was undeniably more attractive than her! What was happening? Was she at fault? Had she failed to recognize Andrew's good? Bernice had only briefly entertained those thoughts, quickly dismissing them. No, she didn't regret divorcing Andrew. What upset her was Andrew swiftly finding another woman right after their divorce. She felt betrayed and humiliated by his actions. As the door closed behind Bernice, she clenched her teeth, standing there briefly before leaving. "Was my acting good? Anyway, if she bothers you again, call me. Partners have each other's backs." Inside, Doria shed her fierce façade, reverting to her usual carefree demeanor. Andrew poured Doria a cup of water, resignedly commenting, "A little over the top, but it's not bad." Andrew didn't plan to have Doria pretend to be his wife for the long run. Besides, he had resolved to sever ties with Bernice the day they divorced. "Do you have time tomorrow? Join me for a charity banquet. Managing it alone is quite daunting." Doria had mentioned it during dinner earlier. With Gavin still recovering, she would be taking charge of the banquet. Feeling indebted, Andrew readily agreed. "Sure." "I'll pick you up tomorrow." After seeing Doria off, Andrew freshened up and retired for the night. The next morning, Andrew went to the woods and exercised at his usual spot. Finishing his routine, Andrew exhaled deeply, shaking his head in frustration. Andrew had been grappling with a plateau for some time with no signs of progress. Overcoming this obstacle appeared to necessitate seeking external assistance. As he wiped away the sweat, Andrew noticed the old man from yesterday. This time, he was accompanied by a young woman in her 20s. Andrew observed their movements, noting that their forms didn't look like any other martial arts he knew of. Their forms appeared unusual and lacked flexibility. Eventually, the old man stopped and said with a smile, "Hey, you're up early. Nowadays, not many youngsters exercise anymore. Their physical condition suffers as a result. Are you interested in training with me? One month is enough to improve your physique." The young woman eyed Andrew curiously before averting her gaze. "Thanks for the offer, but I don't think it's the right workout for me. I'm heading back now." After politely declining the old man's offer, Andrew left and bought himself breakfast. "Do you know him, Grandpa?" Summer Xander asked after Andrew's departure. Raymond Xander shook his head. "This young man just moved in yesterday. Since you rarely visit me, I must find someone to pass the time with." Summer quickly soothed Raymond after hearing his complaint. "As you're aware, I'm busy managing the company. However, I promise to visit you once a week from now on. "Let's drop the idea of taking him as your disciple. He's sweating like crazy from simple exercises. Subjecting him to your training for a few days would likely leave him bedridden." Andrew had no idea that they were talking about him behind his back. Even if he had found out, he wouldn't be bothered. Andrew waited by the river as planned, and Doria arrived as scheduled. Together, they made their way to the charity banquet. As Doria parked her car, she remarked, "I might be busy later. Feel free to explore around. I'll let you know when I need you." After Andrew and Doria left the parking lot, a red sports car pulled in beside them. Inside the car sat Bernice and Bernard. Bernice caught sight of a familiar figure out of the corner of her eye, and she froze for a moment. Was that Andrew?