Dustin agreed with what Felicia had said.
He had expected Nathaniel to use the situation as an excuse to make things difficult for him. Or perhaps put him under house arrest and keep him from leaving.
But to his surprise, Nathaniel did nothing. He even offered Dustin one of the top beauties on the Beauty Ranking.
It was clear that he was trying to establish a friendly relationship. Whether there were other motives behind this gesture didn’t matter for now. As far as Dustin was concerned, this outcome worked in his favor.
“Forget it. Let’s talk about it later, ” Dustin said.
He didn’t dwell on it and left the mansion with Felicia. Time was running out, and he couldn’t afford any delays.
He had to follow Grace’s plan and use the Dracan essence to boost his cultivation before the two royal gods of the Hall of Gods arrived.
Dustin leaned against the plush seat of a sleek luxury car. His gaze was fixed on the blur of scenery outside the window with a tense expression.
Felicia, dressed in red, gracefully sat beside him. She tilted her head slightly and looked at him with hesitation and expectation.
“Mr. Rhys,” she said softly, “I have nowhere to go now. From now on, I’ll follow you.”
Dustin frowned upon hearing that and glanced at her.
She had lowered her head, and her long lashes cast shadows over her face. Her rosy lips were pursed in an almost pitiful expression.
He rubbed his temples.
Felicia was sharp and calculative. Yet, he still had no idea what Nathaniel’s real goal was..
Dustin knew bringing her along on a whim might complicate things. But then he remembered how she’d helped him before, and he just couldn’t bring himself to turn his back on her.
He shook his head and said, “Ms. Thorns, someone like me is always on the move. I’ve made more enemies than friends. Staying by my side would only put you in danger. I don’t think it’s a good idea.
“Are you trying to send me away?” Felicia asked. “It may look like I have a good life at Nathaniel’s mansion, but I was trapped like a bird and bound by rules.
“I finally escaped that torment and was thrilled to follow you. But I never expected you to be so cold.”
She raised her head, and her eyes glistened with tears as she looked at Dustin. Her voice trembled with emotion, and she looked so pitiful.
He quickly explained, “You’ve misunderstood me. I’m not trying to drive you away. The situation right now is complicated, and I’m dealing with my own problems. I don’t want to drag you into this mess.”
Felicia’s eyes flickered with a mischievous gleam, but she kept up the act of being vulnerable as she leaned toward Dustin.
She said in a low voice, “Mr. Rhys, I’m not afraid of getting into trouble. When I first saw you, I could tell you were different from the other men. There’s something about you-a kind of drive, a purpose.
“I’m willing to follow you, share your troubles, and ease your burdens, even if it means putting myself in danger.”
Her voice was gentle and melodious, with a subtle charm. Her warm breath brushed against his cheek, making the moment feel almost intimate.
Dustin leaned back and quickly distanced himself, clearing his throat twice.
“Ms. Thorns, it’s not as simple as you think. The troubles I’m dealing with are much bigger than what Nathaniel has going on.
“Of course, I won’t forget what you’ve done for me. I’ll help you find a place to settle and ensure you’re well taken care of, with enough money to live comfortably for the rest of your life.”
Seeing Dustin’s reaction, Felicia didn’t press any further. She nodded and replied, “I’ll do as you say, Mr. Rhys.”
She knew trying to force her intentions would only drive him away.
Although she had a crush on an outstanding young man like Dustin, they were ultimately strangers who had only just met.
Felicia wasn’t the type to chase after someone with desperation. With her looks and intelligence, finding a promising match wouldn’t be hard.
Still, if the opportunity to get closer to Dustin arose, she wouldn’t pass it up. After all, only a few young talents in Oakvale could command Nathaniel’s attention.
Half an hour later, the car pulled up in front of a luxury.hotel-one of Grace’s properties, backed by government connections.
It was ideal to let Felicia stay at the moment as it could minimize any unnecessary trouble. A woman with her looks, especially one ranked on the Beauty Ranking, was bound to draw unwanted attention. Without someone powerful backing her, she’d be an easy target for spoiled rich kids.
Once she was settled in, Dustin returned to the car and made his way to Soluna Hall. He and Grace agreed to meet there after his mission was complete.
Around 15 minutes later, the car arrived at the entrance.
Everything had been arranged in advance, so Dustin walked in without a hitch. He made his way across the lobby and stepped into the rear garden.
He walked toward the same room as before. Inside, Grace was already waiting.
He pushed the door open and noticed she was sipping tea. Then, he raised his hand and placed two ornate boxes containing the Dracan essence on the table.
“Mission accomplished. I’ve retrieved the item,” Dustin said.
“I thought it would take you three days at least. Honestly, I didn’t expect you to finish so quickly. That’s worth celebrating, “Grace replied with a smile.
She poured him a cup of tea and slid it across the table. It was still warm, just the right temperature to drink.
Now that all five Dracan essences were gathered, they could proceed with their plan.
