Chapter 373 The Meaning of the Bracelet
Ashley gazed at the bracelet—an exquisite piece with high-quality sapphires that looked incredibly valuable.
Ethan, sensing her nervousness, gently took her hand, silently offering support.
"Ashley," Katherine said solemnly, "I'm presenting this bracelet to you today, in front of everyone. When your children grow up and find happiness of their own, you'll pass it down to the next generation."
Ashley was too moved to speak.
Katherine tenderly took Ashley's hand and fastened the bracelet around her wrist. "Take good care of it, dear."
"Thank you for trusting me with this," Ashley replied. "I'll protect it with my life—this bracelet will never be damaged as long as I'm alive!"
Hearing this, Ethan quickly touched her lips, admonishing her gently. "Don't talk like that!"
Ashley responded by wrapping her arm around his and leaning against him affectionately.
Michael and Katherine exchanged a knowing look. "It's getting late," Katherine said. "We old folks should head to bed and leave you two to enjoy your reunion."
Ethan and Ashley shared a smile, and Ashley blushed as she said, "Goodnight."
Michael wheeled Katherine away.
"Would you like to walk around the garden after dinner?" Ethan asked.
"I'd love to," Ashley replied.
They strolled hand in hand through the garden, with Ashley occasionally feeling the unfamiliar weight of her new bracelet.
During their walk, Ashley's phone buzzed with messages from Pauline. "Honey, Pauline's found five men who match Hawk's facial features. Take a look."
Ethan examined the photos—four resembled Hawk to varying degrees, but one looked noticeably different.
"Why include this one that doesn't look like him?" Ethan wondered.
Another message arrived from Pauline explaining: [Ashley, these five have the closest facial structure matches. The one who looks least similar is 55 years old. Though his face doesn't match, his ears and eyes are remarkably similar!]
Ashley texted: [Ears and eyes?]
Pauline: [Working at the police department, I've seen many fugitives undergo cosmetic surgery. They can alter their appearance, but certain features remain unchanged—ears, eyes, and DNA. Plus, the other four don't match the age criteria. Only Tony Addison fits what you're looking for.]
Ashley: [I see. Thanks, Pauline.]
Ashley turned to Ethan. "What do you think?"
Studying Tony's photo, Ethan noticed his stiff facial expressions but familiar eyes. "I didn't see Hawk often as a child. Grandpa and Grandma would know his features better, but..." His expression darkened. "They've suffered the pain of losing a son. Jimmy and Hawk are subjects we never bring up in our family. I don't want to mention their names."
"You're right—it would upset them," Ashley agreed. "Let's investigate quietly on our own."
"Good idea. I'll have someone look into this Tony person."
Checking his watch, Ethan suggested, "It's getting late. Ready to head back?"
"Yes."
They returned to their bedroom, affectionate all the way. The moment the door closed behind them, Ethan pressed Ashley against it, kissing her urgently.
Ashley responded with a soft moan as his kisses trailed downward. She leaned into him, her body tingling with pleasure.
The next morning, sunlight streamed through the windows, waking Ethan. He shifted slightly, causing Ashley to stir beside him. She adjusted her position but remained asleep, curled against him like a contented cat.
Ethan smiled, gazing at her with pure adoration.
His phone rang, and he reached for it quickly to avoid disturbing her. "Hello," he answered quietly.
"Mr. Yates," Diannel said, "there's an important meeting today. All four partners for the third round of financing will be present to discuss cooperation."
"I understand. I'll be there."
Hanging up, Ethan kissed Ashley's forehead. "I'm heading to work, sweetheart. Sleep well. I'll be back soon."
Ashley rolled over with a murmur of acknowledgment before drifting back to sleep. The movement revealed marks on her skin—evidence of their passionate night together.
Ethan's throat tightened at the sight of her beautiful back. Taking a deep breath to control his desire, he tenderly pulled the covers over her. "Remember to eat breakfast when you wake up."
"Okay," she mumbled drowsily.
After dressing, Ethan drove to the office.
Diannel handed him a file. "Mr. Yates, these are the four executives who want to partner with us."
Ethan glanced through the document and was shocked to recognize a familiar face—Tony!
Log in with Google Account
Chapters
Favorite
Settings
