Chapter 426
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The following morning, everyone gathered to accompany Jaden and Luna to city hall, where they completed their marriage registration. Afterward, they decided to celebrate with a cozy meal together.
By afternoon, Jaden and Luna shared the exciting news on social media, posting their marriage certificates and a brief announcement. They said they would soon host a simple wedding at Donovan’s Farmland
Zayn and Lockwood also reposted the announcement post and shared their congratulations, amplifying the buzz. Soon, the announcement was everywhere, and well–wishers flooded the couple with warm messages.
This news conveniently shifted some attention away from Zayn’s recent involvement in a counter–terrorism operation. As a result, the crowd of onlookers outside the Donovans‘ villa began to thin out.
However, as the family returned home that evening, a few persistent reporters managed to catch up with them. Zayn was forced to answer a handful of questions before the journalists finally left, satisfied with his responses.
This encounter reminded the Donovan family that fame came with a price. Moving forward, they realized they would need to be more mindful of their public image, behavior, and safety.
Two days later, most online content about the counter–terrorism operation was taken down apart from official press releases. Any related discussions or comments were deleted, and further discussion on the topic became strictly prohibited.
The public generally understood the decision. Given the ongoing threat of terrorism, both domestically and abroad, excessive discussion of sensitive matters could endanger the safety of those involved.
Around this time, Wesley and his wife returned home with Josie.
During their time abroad, language barriers and other challenges prompted them to leave their phones with Rufus for safekeeping. Rufus had quietly blocked their access to social media and groups to shield them from any news about Zayn’s ordeal.
Only after things had settled down did Rufus inform them of Zayn’s recent close call with terrorists. The news shocked them deeply, and they rushed home in panic.
When the family finally reunited, emotions ran high–relief, joy, and a tinge of lingering sorrow.
Once everyone had calmed down, Claire exclaimed, “To welcome Zayn back safely, I’ll cook a great dinner tonight. Bring your girlfriends too,” she said with a warm smile.
“Maria, doesn’t your best friend live nearby? Invite her over, too. And make sure Harry, Rufus, and Daniel join us as well. The more, the merrier,” she added.
“Thanks, Mom,” Maria cheerfully replied before she went off to call Tina Tate.
Jaden also called Luna, asking her to bring Horace and Lindsey to the gathering.
Meanwhile, Brandon had been unusually quiet. After a moment’s hesitation, he spoke up, frowning slightly. “I broke up Lindsay. She’s planning to move back to Aeloria, so she won’t be coming to our house anymore.”
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The family was taken aback and immediately asked what had happened.
Brandon didn’t elaborate and said, “Lindsay decided to immigrate to Aeloria. I can’t go with her, so we agreed to part ways amicably,” he explained with a weak smile.
“This happened a few days ago. I’m already over it, so there’s no need to comfort me,” Brandon added.
The family exchanged glances, but they held back their comments. Some patted his shoulder, while others reassured him,
08:50 Tue, Nov 26
Chapter 426
“As long as you’re sure, we’ll support your decision, whatever it may be.”
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“Thanks,” Brandon replied, managing a smile. Stretching his arms, he added in a lighter tone, “I might not be the best cook, but I can help with the prep work. Let’s get started.”
Although he was smiling, there was a subtle sadness in his eyes.
Brandon has been dealing with Lindsay’s resignation in the past few days. She has been direct and efficient, completing the handover without dragging things out. They haven’t had a final conversation or even a last dinner together.
However, two of the four senior technical experts Lindsay had brought with her also decided to leave. Their departure meant Brandon had to repurchase the shares he had initially given them, but now at a premium.
He calculated that he would need 40 million dollars – 20 million dollars for Lindsay and 10 million dollars each for the other two experts.
It was a fair sum, considering Lindsay’s two years of work and contribution to the company. But coming up with $40 million in cash was a daunting task.
While the company was profitable, its initial investments were substantial, and he reinvested most of the earnings into research and development.
Brandon’s income and dividends had largely gone toward covering the salaries of professionals and senior management. In short, he had very little personal income to rely on.
Now he was unsure how to raise the 40 million dollars needed to buy back the shares from Lindsay and the two other experts.
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