I Walked Away And He Lost His Mind (Zephyra and Steven) novel Chapter 485

Mrs. Lancaster nodded, satisfied. “Yes, my husband used to be that busy too. The women of prominent families are often lonely. As Ms. Lopez, I’m sure you’re used to it.”

“You were by Steven’s side, taking care of him after his accident. It’s a shame that child lost his senses after waking up. To reject you and keep some country girl by his side… he’s truly a bit foolish when it comes to matters of the heart.”

Antonia fumed at the memory, but her pretty face showed only confusion. “Have you found out where that woman came from? She seems very close to Steven. He… he isn't actually planning to marry her, is he?”

“Don’t be ridiculous. Steven’s wife will be you. Only you are worthy of my Steven,” Mrs. Lancaster said, narrowing her eyes and patting Antonia’s hand. “She’s just some stray from the countryside whose education Steven sponsored. At most, she has a pretty face. If Steven was truly interested in her, he would have married her long ago, and Zephyra would never have had a chance.”

“Tomorrow, Steven is coming back to Ixia to see his grandpa. Dress your best, and I will play matchmaker for you two. If you can win him over and get pregnant, I will immediately propose the marriage to your family!”

A dreamy smile appeared on Antonia's face, and she lowered her head shyly. “Okay. I’ll also work on my grandfather. Last time was all that brat Ryan’s fault, which caused the misunderstanding. It won’t happen again. Tomorrow… I’ll be counting on your help.”

…

After breakfast, I started making a fuss about needing to get things from my room. All my documents, my clothes, and even the raw materials for my designs were there. I had to leave.

Steven pointed to a corner of the room. I looked down and saw my suitcases, neatly placed there.

I was speechless.

I knelt and checked through them. Everything was there, nothing was missing.

Next, I demanded a phone. Even Steven’s would do. He gave it to me readily, but he’d removed the SIM card. I could only connect to Wi-Fi and browse the news. I couldn't even call for help.

I glared at him.

Steven sat leisurely at his desk, sipping coffee. He watched me with a faint smile, as if waiting to see what other tricks I had up my sleeve.

I took a deep breath. Fine, I’d think of another way.

I scrolled through the news, looking for information on Horace. The internet was still flooded with negative stories about him, along with a photo of his release from jail. He was wearing a mask as he got into a van. My fingers gripped the phone, turning white at the knuckles.

Horace was out. He would be trying to contact me. He must be worried sick that I’ve been out of touch.

I hoped his agent could calm him down and take him to get his leg checked…

My hearing was sharp, and my brows furrowed. Ms. Zade… he must be talking about Rachel.

Steven had said he would give me an explanation this morning. Ha, was his explanation having Gordon put on a show for me?

I sneered. “The thief crying ‘thief.’ How interesting.”

Steven set down his coffee cup and glanced at me, but he wasn't angry. His handsome, indifferent face remained impassive. “Who did it?”

Gordon looked troubled, his voice still hushed. “Mr. Lancaster…”

Steven picked up the contract. “My wife wants to hear. Speak up, so she doesn’t keep making dark assumptions and pinning the blame on me.”

I stared at Gordon and let out a cold laugh.

Gordon pursed his lips. “Mr. Lancaster… a month ago, someone approached Ms. Zade’s father about starting a business together. He would provide the capital, and Ms. Zade’s father would provide the labor. A few days ago, this person tricked Ms. Zade’s father into signing a ten-year lease for eight million dollars. After the contract was signed, the person vanished. The Zade family couldn't produce that kind of money and now owes a lot in breach-of-contract fees. They’ve sold their house and assets, but it’s still not enough.”

Hearing this, Steven’s well-defined features grew cold, as if he had already guessed the culprit. Gordon’s next words came out with difficulty. “The person who orchestrated all of this was Verna Garcia—”