Moonlit Betrayal (Alpha Rick)

Chapter 119 

Tm just worried. I heard from some friends that the Richardson family is getting more arrogant in Talondria, and it seems they’re involved in some shady dealings. I’m concerned about how it might affect us, so I want to clear things up. Only then can we be prepared and protect ourselves,” reasoned Ethan. 

His reasons were solid. Though Jasmine didn’t fully grasp the severity of what Ethan was talking about, judging by his expression, she sensed it was serious. 

“I don’t mean to keep this from you… It’s just that, that incident from back then was a disgrace for the Lewis family. So, we never brought it up. Also, your father despises the Richardson family, rightly so. He forbade any contact, so we never reached out. 

Jasmine hesitated, then slowly said, “The Richardson family used to be involved in legitimate business, but someone convinced your grandpa into doing some shady dealings. 

“The Lewis family has a special status, especially with your father being the president. Having in–laws like that would be quite embarrassing if it got out.” 

Jasmine sighed, her fatigue evident. “Your father warned them to stop those shady dealings, but your grandparents wouldn’t listen. They even argued with your father. 

“Not only that, but the Richardson family also borrowed a significant sum of money from the Lewis family in my name. Then they disappeared without a trace. Essentially, they cheated us, Jasmine revealed. 

Ethan was taken aback. His father always despised such deceit, especially when it affected their family. 

“Why would they do this? Has it always been like this, or did something happen?” 

Jasmine shook her head gently. Tm not sure. Though they’re my parents, I was sent to Aerionia at a young age, so I didn’t interact with them much 

The Richardson family arranged for me to marry your father too. They mentioned that our marriage was already decided back then, but your father found out later that the engagement was a fraud. 

“I thought your father would be angry and kick me out, but he’s a good person. He knew I was forced into it, that I was innocent, so he let me stay. 

“After all these incidents, your father harbors deep resentment towards the Richardson family. And since they didn’t treat me well, the Lewis family didn’t extend any courtesy to the Richardson family,” she concluded. 

Ethan began to understand the situation. It explained the behavior of his grandparents. 

“Mom, I just found out about this. You should have told me earlier. I’m grown up now; you can share these things with me. I can help bear the burden too.” 

“Ethan, though we have an estranged relationship with my parents, they’re your grandparents, after all. I think it’s enough for us to have no further dealings with the Richardson family. There’s no need for unnecessary drama 

“I don’t want any more entanglements. No matter who gets hurt. I’ll be very upset.” 

Jasmine felt torn. Both sides were her family, and the best outcome would be to avoid any accidents. 

“Mom, I understand. I know where we stand. As long as grandpa and grandma don’t do anything to us, we won’t do anything 

either.” 

Jasmine’s expression changed upon hearing that. “Ethan, tell me the truth. Did the Richardson family thake a move? What do they want?” 

She was nervous, and slightly too emotional. If he told her truth, he was worried that her emotions would be affected. greatly. Besides, she might reveal their plans, allowing the Richardson family to make preparations in advance. 

“No. I’m just trying to prevent anything from happening. Get some rest earlier. I won’t mention this matter anymore in the 

future. 

Jasmine had always trusted Ethan, as he was reliable, so she simply nodded. 

“Okay.” 

Ethan returned to his bedroom and pushed open the door, only to see a figure sitting on the sofa. 

The person seemed to be working on a laptop. In the dim light. Ethan couldn’t make out who it was. 

“Who’s there?” Ethan asked. 

There was no response from the figure, who continued to focus on the laptop. 

“I’m talking to you! Who are you?” Ethan walked over, his tone firm. 

“Keep it down. Do you want everyone to know I sneaked in?” 

The man finally looked up, his expression displeased. 

“Oh, it’s you, Dominick! How did you get here? It’s late at night. How did you get in?” Ethan sighed in relief, but he still grumbled 

“I have my ways. I came to discuss something important with you. I’ve made a new discovery, Dominick replied calmly. 

Ethan noticed the half–opened windows and teased, “You’re the prestigious CEO of the Leroy Group. How did you resort to sneaky tactics like this? 

“You actually jumped in through the window. What were you thinking?” Ethan threw a pillow at him. 

Dominick shut his laptop and looked at Ethan indifferently. “So, you don’t want to hear about my new discovery? If you don’t want to listen, I’ll leave.” 

Ethan quickly raised his hand to stop him. “Hold on, hold on. I was just kidding. You’re really no fun.” 

Ethan’s gaze turned serious as he sat across from Dominick. “Go ahead. Nothing can shock me anymore after today’s news. It’s been quite a day.” 

Dominick lowered his gaze, taking his time before speaking slowly. “Tve made up my mind. I’m not going to let Lola go 

anymore.” 

Ethan’s face immediately darkened. “Hey, Dominick. How can you break your promise? Have you forgotten how miserable Layla was before? Do you want her to relive the life she used to have? 

“It’s not that I don’t support you. I just want to remind you not to make impulsive decisions. Have you ever thought that if you force Layla to remember the past, she’ll suffer again? Didn’t you say you’d never let her be unhappy again?” 

Dominick remained quiet until Ethan finished speaking before looking at him wordlessly. 

“Who said I want her to remember the past?” Dominick replied. 

Ethan paused, his expression changing. Then what? Isn’t that what you meant?” 

“I just want to get to know her with a new identity. I want to protect her, help her, and be there for her when she needs me. With my charm, Lola will definitely fall for me. This is our fresh start 

Ethan blinked, processing Dominick’s words. “You mentioned…what charm was it?” 

“Isn’t it true? Don’t you think I’m more charming than Scott?” Dominick raised an eyebrow. 

Ethan seemed to seriously ponder for a moment. “Oh, if you put it that way, then yes.”