Chapter 715

Huan gently patted Rosalia's head. "Let's go, time for dinner." Holding Rosalia's hand, Huan walked out of the study. Maia was already waiting outside and naturally fell into step with them as they headed toward the small courtyard where Rosalia's family lived. After dinner, Limberly dismissed Maia to rest but pulled Huan aside. "Huan," she began with a sigh, "ordinarily, this isn't something your aunt should bring up, but under the circumstances..." She hesitated before continuing, "I know you're in the U.S. now, where they're more liberal about these things. But you're only fifteen. Isn't it a bit too early to be dating?" Huan didn't seem bothered by his aunt's interference. "Auntie, don't worry," he replied politely. "Maia and I may be in a relationship, but we're not doing anything inappropriate." "That's good to hear," Limberly said, visibly relieved though still concerned. "Spending time together and talking is fine at your age, but some things are too early. They can be harmful, especially for a girl's health." She fixed him with a serious look. "As a young man, you need to take responsibility for yourself and for her. Do you understand?" "I do, Auntie," Huan answered respectfully. Only then did Limberly relax and let him go. Watching him leave, she murmured to herself, "I hope he truly takes it to heart." Nearby, Shawn overheard and reassured her, "Don't worry. Huan was mostly raised by our parents. He may be quiet, but he's got a good head on his shoulders. He won't do anything reckless." Back in his own small building, Huan was greeted by Xifan, who bounded over excitedly. He scooped up the pet and stroked its fur as he headed upstairs to his study. On the second-floor landing, Maia was waiting. "When are you planning to tell Shawn?" she asked. Huan glanced at her. "No need to involve Uncle. I'll handle it myself." Maia frowned. "At dinner, I saw how well your uncle's family treats you and how much you respect them. If you don't say anything, aren't you worried they'll be blindsided and end up in danger?" "I'll protect them," Huan replied calmly, his tone unwavering with resolve. Maia arched an eyebrow. "Keep showing off, why don't you?" "So when are we making our move? I'll give my dad a heads-up. The sooner we wrap this up, the sooner we can head back to the States. Wouldn't want your little friend finding out you're back and that you've got a girlfriend. That'd be one awkward conversation." Huan's brow furrowed slightly. "We strike when they do." Maia snapped her fingers. "Deal." "Still, your uncles are downright ruthless. You and your uncle already handed over the shares and assets, yet they're still not satisfied now they want you dead and buried. That's crossing a line." Huan's lips curled into a cold smirk. "Isn't that just human nature when greed takes over?" His hand, however, moved gently over Xifan's fur, the cat purring contentedly in his lap. His gaze lingered on the snow-white coat, and unbidden, a petite figure flashed through his mind her carefree, radiant smile. A sudden restlessness prickled under his skin, like countless ants crawling through his veins. The urge to see her, even just a glimpse from afar, surged fiercely before he ruthlessly tamped it down. Meanwhile, on the other side of the city, Mina pulled on gloves and picked up a scalpel with practiced ease. With precise strokes, she dissected a white mouse, her mind replaying the forensic videos she'd studied the meticulous autopsy of Veronica's body. Her small face scrunched in concentration as she examined the mouse's liver and spleen. Veronica had died from massive hemorrhaging in these very organs. What kind of hatred could drive someone to beat a young girl with such brutal force? And then there was the eerie calm of Aaliyah and Rory earlier. Despite witnessing Katalina striking Cayden and the elderly Camillie, the two women had stood by without so much as a flinch. Something about it all felt... off. After disposing of the white mouse's body, Mina removed her gloves and lab coat, lost in thought. No matter how much she pondered, she couldn't make sense of the case. Even the police hadn't uncovered any leads yet. Though Aaliyah and Rory were the prime suspects, they had airtight alibis neither had ever set foot in that vacation resort. Cayden had been there, but he was constantly surrounded by people, leaving no opportunity to act. Mina shook her head, giving up for now. If she couldn't figure it out, there was no point dwelling on it. But as soon as she pushed the case aside, her mind wandered back to the mute boy. Just then, Jane returned home. Mina beckoned her over with a wave. "Jane, come here. I need to talk to you." In high spirits, Jane scampered over, her tiny feet pattering excitedly. "What is it, sis?" Mina frowned. "Listen, I just called the mute boy, and a girl answered..." Jane's heart leaped into her throat. She quickly blurted, "Maybe Huan was busy! It could've been someone from his club answering for him!" Mina eyed her sister's nervous reaction. "Jane, why are you so jumpy? I didn’t say there was anything wrong with a girl answering. The weird part is she spoke perfect English, like a native. Doesn’t that mean the mute boy might already be back?" Jane fidgeted, twisting her hands behind her back. "O-Or maybe there are other English people in his club! You know, esports is getting more popular here. Lots of people might go abroad to compete, just like Huan!" Mina nodded thoughtfully. "That makes sense. I’ll try calling him again!" As Mina headed back to her room, Jane finally exhaled, collapsing onto the couch like a deflated balloon. Her sister might be easygoing, but she knew her too well lying to her was no easy feat! She had no idea how much longer she could keep this up. Clenching her tiny fists in frustration, Jane seethed. *Damn that scumbag Huan! I swear, I’d love to punch his stupid face in!*