The Guardian's Return (Ethan Rivers) novel Chapter 17

Chapter 17 

Stephen had asked why, yet the answers he received seemed completely unrelated, However, every response answered his question perfectly. 

the widows of the Why did Ethan treat those women so well? It was because they w fallen heroes. Their husbands had sacrificed their lives for Riveria, and Riveria’s prosperity was built on the sacrifice of those men. 

Did their families not deserve such luxurious homes? They did; they more than deserved it. 

“What…” Stephen suddenly felt his throat go dry. 

The officials behind were stunned, not to mention George and the other governors watching the livestream. 

Zane sighed softly. He knew Ethan would not have any mistresses, but now that the truth was out, he could not help but feel a deep respect for Ethan. The man had taken on the burden of the entire province’s well–being all by himself. 

“No wonder Riveria is thriving. With someone like him around, Riveria will only get better!” 

Liam gulped hard, finally understanding why Ethan was so calm that morning. Since he had nothing to hide, he had nothing to fear, not even false accusations or slander, especially when the women in question were the families of the fallen heroes. 

The governors returned to their senses, their expressions now serious as they looked at George and Stephen. 

So, this is the so–called harem?” 

A bead of cold sweat trickled down George’s forehead. “Uh…” 

Stephen’s expression turned grim. He could not think of a response. 

Suddenly, a loud noise sounded as a governor slammed his hands on the table. 

“Their husbands gave their lives for Riveria, and Ethan spent his money and time to take care of them. But instead of thanking him, you arrested him instead?” 

Stephen shrank back, mumbling, “That’s not it. Why would Ethan give them such 

luxurious houses if something fishy wasn’t going on?” 

Another governor shot to his feet. “What do you mean by that? Are you saying they don’t deserve to live in such houses? Then tell me, who does? You?” 

The governors‘ expressions were dark. Just moments ago, they believed Stephen and George, thinking Ethan really had a harem. However, not only did it turn out to be untrue, but Ethan had even been using his own money to care for the widows of the fallen heroes! 

12 

Chapter 17 

They had misjudged such a great man! How could they forgive themselves? 

Stephen shivered, rendered speechless by the revelation. George also lowered his head. 

The outcome was far beyond what he had anticipated. He never thought Ethan was wholeheartedly caring for the families of heroes instead of having them as mistresses. If word got out, he could forget about ruining Ethan’s reputation. Someone might even erect a monument in the man’s name. 

He had investigated plenty of people before, and all his punches were usually spot on. George muttered to himself, “How could I have been wrong this time?” 

The officials started to whisper among themselves. 

“I knew Ethan wouldn’t be involved in something like this. He’s not that kind of person.” “Arresting someone like Ethan will be the downfall of Riveria.” 

“Is this new guy competent? Did he drag us all here without evidence to see him make a fool of himself?” 

Hearing the murmurs behind him, Stephen’s face flickered between red and pale. He did not look happy- 

“Quiet, all of you!” He snapped coldly, silencing the officials, and said, “This has to be Ethan’s scheme. This is a smokescreen to deceive us. They must all be acting!”