Chapter 91
On usual days when they barbecued in the yard, the neighbors complained about the smell. But today, not only did no one mind, but several even started barbecuing themselves, coming over to borrow sauce or bring over some Boston lobster and sea food.
The reason was simple. The yard was filled with big shots.
As soon as Quinlyn arrived, she was surrounded by familiar faces. There was a team of experts she had worked with to build the anti–magnetic device.
An expert said, “Quinlyn, when can we discuss the principles behind the magnetic storm regions again? We’ve already applied for the invention award, but we still believe further improvements can be made, and it can be applied to more fields.”
Some high–ranking military officials were also there. “Although we didn’t have much time together, we’re here to thank you for your contributions. The first–class medal is a certainty, and we hope to have the chance to work together again in the future, Quinlyn.”
And then there were the Grade 12 rich kids. “We heard you’re having a birthday party, and when it comes to organizing events, we’re the best. Please don’t turn us down, or our parents who are eager to return the favor might break our legs.”
Finally, Quinlyn managed to carry a big plate of barbecue to a group of elderly folks after more than half an hour. “Hello,” she greeted them politely before reaching Edward. She divided the meat and said, “This isn’t spicy; you can have it.”
Seeing that she remembered his taste, Edward was filled with delight. He chuckled as he started eating. “Food from my granddaughter just tastes better.”
The elderly crowd nearby couldn’t stand Edward’s showing off.
Curtis, Antonio, Leonard, and the others were a bit envious, but they knew that Edward was the first to recognize Quinlyn’s potential and treat them well. So out of gratitude, Quinlyn favored Edward.
“I just heard you took in a mother and her child.” Antonio had been keeping up with the developments since the morning news about the kidnapping.
“Yeah, Mrs. Suarez and Quinton feel like family to me now.” Quinlyn didn’t find it strange to call them family after just meeting them, and she wasn’t just being polite. Having always felt rootless, she truly acknowledged those who were legally considered family. –
The elders were glad about her kindness. “Bring the kid over to the Hill family sometime, and I’ll check his build. If he’s suitable, I’ll have someone teach him in the backyard,” Antonio mused, offering for the first time to let the Hill trainees teach
someone at no cost.
Quinlyn’s future was bound to be tumultuous, and those around her should at least know how to protect themselves so they wouldn’t be a burden.
Quinlyn didn’t give it much thought. She just figured Quinton getting hit by his dad was because he was too weak. Learning some martial arts might be helpful. So she nodded. “Sure.”
Curtis looked at Antonio and said to Quinlyn slowly, “Starting next week, you’ll begin training at the base. Two days a week, no less.”
“Yes.” Quinlyn tilted her head lightly, looking more serious. After witnessing Janet’s situation today, she was even more determined to learn about the law and find better ways to stop criminals.
Edward watched as both sides seemed eager to train Quinlyn like a soldier and gently patted her head. “If you feel tired, you don’t have to go. You’re still young; there’s no rush.”
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Chapter 91
In the beginning, he indeed had high hopes, believing that talent shouldn’t be wasted. But after that risky trip into the mountains where she and Stanley were trapped in danger, Edward’s heart ached for her.
Edward had a soft spot for Quinlyn. She never had an easy life in the borderlands, and after moving to the city, she was always rushing around to save people, often finding herself in dangerous situations. He didn’t want to put more pressure on
her.
Feeling his emotions, Quinlyn raised her eyes, her pupils bright, saying, “It’s my own choice, Edward. Many people have gone through tough times, and I couldn’t help before. Now I can, and I want to learn more.
Edward was at a loss for words, feeling both happy and compassionate. In such a harsh place, developing this kind of temperament was truly rare.
After dinner, everyone stayed in the yard to drink coffee. Quinlyn was swinging on the lawn, holding a jar of lollipops.
Warren finally came over. “I hope my presence hasn’t ruined your appetite.” Wearing his usual elegant suit, he was as⚫ gentlemanly as ever, with well–defined features and every move exuding mature charm.
It was a pity that Quinlyn couldn’t appreciate it. She just looked at him curiously, asking, “Why? I don’t dislike you.” They simply weren’t familiar, and it was Harriet who deceived him, not his fault.
Warren was surprised by her directness and honesty. After a brief pause, he found himself completely disarmed and joined her on the swing, saying, “You’re really different, Quinlyn.
“I’m so used to the trickery in the business world that sometimes I feel lost with you.” It felt like she was straightforward, while he had to overthink everything.
Quinlyn didn’t quite understand him either; she thought he was somewhat like Maurice but not as bad. After thinking for a moment, she handed him a lollipop from her jar, saying seriously, “If you do more good things, I’d be happy to be your friend.”
Warren was caught off guard, looking at the candy in surprise. Seeing that she always kept it with her and it must be precious, he hesitated for a few seconds before accepting it, unwrapping it, and putting it into his mouth.
The sweet taste spread across his tongue, tinged with the flavor of cheap artificial coloring.
Then Quinlyn asked him, “Does it taste good?”
Warren turned to meet her sparkling eyes, genuinely sharing the joy of delicious food. His heart softened instantly, and he couldn’t help but nod, saying, “Yes, it’s tasty, really sweet.” That sweetness seemed to flow into his heart.
This made Quinlyn happy too, slightly swaying on her toes with a very satisfied expression.
Warren seemed to understand something. The well–known people gathered there might be drawn to Quinlyn’s skills, but what they truly valued was her pure heart. Thinking of this, he finally let go of all his burdens and said, “Quinlyn, can you help me once more?”
Quinlyn, in a good mood, looked back at him with a smile, resembling a cute little kitten.
“The accounting system is fixed, and we’ve identified the traitor in the group, but couldn’t catch the foreign forces. I’d like to use your network technology skills,” Warren said in one breath, feeling a sense of relief.
He owed Quinlyn twice over, so it was only fair to provide compensation. Giving her company shares seemed appropriate, but he felt it was a bit too bold to make another request so soon, which was why he hesitated.
Quinlyn, on the other hand, didn’t overthink it. Remembering the Frostlight Monastery and the storm in the mountains, her expression turned serious. “Even if you hadn’t brought it up, I would still want to confront them. When do you plan to
take action?”
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Chapter 91
Seeing her agree so easily boosted Warren’s confidence. “In three days, there’s an international online friendly match. DigitalKey Group has already registered. I’m sure they won’t pass up the chance to sabotage us.”
