When Left

When she left, He went crazy 

Chapter 174: Beautiful First Love 

This was the first time Jerry had shown such an expression. I couldn’t discern if it was nervousness, excitement, or 

panic. 

In that moment, a flash of the old Christopher seemed to flicker within Jerry. 

This fleeting resemblance caused me to grow even calmer, almost cold–blooded, as I suppressed the tumultuous emotions threatening to surface, and turned decisively on my heel. 

“Go on.” Jerry urged, still on the phone. He took a large step forward, enveloping me in his embrace with one arm, and no matter how I struggled, his grip remained firm. 

The person on the other end said a few more words, and he responded with a measured calmness, “Be careful. Don’t let yourself be deceived. I’ll come over once I’ve settled things here.” 

Hanging up, he slipped the phone into his pocket and pinched my cheeks, distorting my face. “Why are you running? Did you hear what I just said?” 

I mumbled through his grip, “Let go of me.” 

Maybe my squished face amused him, because he chuckled and ignored my plea, pinching me again. “Answer my question first. If I like your answer, I’ll let you go.” 

I slapped his hand away and pursed my lips, fighting back a wave of bitterness. “Jerry Hammer, Mr. Hammer, I’m not interested in playing games like you. I can’t afford to.” 

“Game?” Jerry’s expression hardened, his tongue pressing against his teeth in displeasure. “You think I’m toying with 

you?” 

I retorted, “Isn’t that so?” 

Snowflakes drifted down around us, and a shiver ran through me. “You said if there’s no news about Ms. Harris in the next two days, you’ll stop waiting. But you just got news. Do you see me as your second choice, or her?” 

Clearly, the second choice was me. 

Both Claire and Avery had spoken at length to me, and I nearly believed them. But now, facing Jerry’s arrogant demeanor, I realized the chasm between us was wider than the one between me and Christopher. 

With Jerry’s status, women from high society would be lining up for him. I didn’t stand a chance. 

Despite smelling of alcohol, Jerry’s gaze was piercingly clear. He smirked, his voice dripping with his usual indifference. “Do you think I’m Christopher Valence?” 

1 shook my head. “I don’t know.” 

It was unbearably cold. I sniffed, tightened my down jacket around me, and kicked a stone. Softly, I said, “I only know you’re both men, and Bella is the beautiful first love.” 

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Chapter 174: Beautiful First Love 

Jerry remained silent for a moment before chuckling unhurriedly, “Is it possible that I simply like the ordinary you?” 

I paused and looked up instinctively. “What?” 

Jerry flicked my forehead gently and stuffed a late–night snack into my hand. “I can’t promise much, but Hope Royston, I’m definitely not Christopher Valence. Alright, go inside.” 

“I don’t need your promises,” I replied, looking at him steadily. 

I had heard too many promises. I no longer believed in such fleeting, ephemeral things. Even if a promise was sincere at the moment it was made, as sweet as a freshly ripened fruit, over time–a few days of rain and sun–it would rot and stink. 

The next day was Christmas Eve. 

The Harris Manor was imbued with a festive atmosphere, decked out in holiday decorations. The butler was still orchestrating the servants in hanging lights and garlands everywhere, 

It was lively and festive. 

Descending the stairs, I was greeted by Claire’s enthusiastic wave. “Hope, come, the breakfast is freshly made. Eat it while it’s hot.” 

Claire with such warmth that she often felt more like a grandmother than a household staff member. 

I smiled. “Okay.” 

I obediently walked over, took a few bites, and then, swallowing the reluctance, said, “Claire, I’ve troubled you these past two days. I’ll be heading back to Jacquar later. I wish you a happy holiday and all the best in advance.” 

Claire looked concerned. “Why are you leaving? Don’t you still need to help Jerry?” 

Suppressing my emotions, I responded, “He probably doesn’t need my help anymore.” 

Jerry’s first love was likely on her way back. 

Feigning anger, Claire chided, “What do you mean, he doesn’t need your help, so you won’t care about me? I was hoping to have some company for Christmas, and now you’re leaving? Stay and spend Christmas with me!” 

“Claire…” 

Her plea moved me, but I knew it wouldn’t be proper for me to stay any longer. 

Claire took my hand, firm in her resolve. “You’ll be alone if you go back. Just listen to me and stay here.” 

“Claire!” A commanding voice interrupted from the entrance as Kimberly, Larry, and Skylar walked in. Kimberly, in short boots, dashed over to Claire’s side. “Claire, if Ms. Royston wants to leave, let her go. Soon, you won’t have time for her anyway! 

Claire looked at Larry and Skylar, displeased. “Look at what you’ve raised! No manners at all!” 

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Chapter 174: Beautiful First Love 

Skylar’s face darkened, nudging Larry who stood flustered between his mother and wife. “Mom, why are you like this?” 

Claire, unhappy, retorted coldly, “Like this? I said years ago, during the holidays, we each mind our own business. I won’t bother you, and you don’t bother me!” 

Kimberly, still fuming from the rebuke, snapped, “Claire, it’s fine if you hate me, but do you hate your own granddaughter too?” 

Claire’s expression turned serious. “What nonsense are you talking about?” 

“Your real granddaughter is coming back soon.” Kimberly said with a mysterious air, throwing me a cold smile. “Once she’s back, you won’t have time for Ms. Royston!” 

Claire’s face flushed with excitement. “Where did you hear that?” she demanded, gripping the arm of the sofa for 

support. 

Larry and Skylar’s expressions also changed dramatically. Skylar grabbed Kimberly’s arm eagerly. “Is it true? Bella has 

been found!” 

Seeing everyone’s excitement, Kimberly clutched her fists, a complex look flickering in her eyes before she smiled. “Yes! 

Here. 

She placed the morning newspaper on the coffee table. I glanced at it and saw the headline: “Jerry Hammer Finds His Long–Lost Fiancée.” Ccontent © exclusive by Nô/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.

Below were two photos. In one, a woman appeared to be about to throw herself into Jerry’s arms, her eyes filled with timid longing, evoking a protective instinct in anyone who saw her. In the other, Jerry was raising his hand to block her advance. 

Claire, donning her reading glasses, picked up the newspaper and snorted. “This isn’t my Bella! It’s just another fabrication by the unscrupulous media!” 

Kimberly smirked. “You don’t believe it? Then wait for the DNA test. Once it’s done, everything will be clear!” 

Given Kimberly’s personality, her indifference struck an odd note. She should be angry if Bella was found. Yet she seemed almost pleased for the family. 

Skylar scrutinized the photos before turning an unreadable gaze my way. With the demeanor of a host, she said, “Ms. Royston, are you leaving now or later? I’ll arrange for a driver to take you.” 

Her bluntness was unmistakable.