Never Too Far Novel

Chapter 1801-1810

“I had to attend an important meeting in the morning, so I didn’t get the chance to see you off at the pier. You didn’t answer my phone calls either, so I thought you must be mad at me. So, I came here especially to apologize to you,” Ethan replied earnestly.

“What? You called me? Why didn’t I know about it?” With that, Josephine hastily took out her phone to confirm. Just as Ethan said, there were two missed calls from him. She was troubled. She must have accidentally missed the calls.

“I wasn’t mad at you, I just happened to not notice your calls coming in. You don’t have to apologize to me.” Josephine felt a little sorry as well.

If she had answered his calls, he wouldn’t have come all the way here.

Ethan was still relieved. At least she missed the calls because she didn’t notice, not because she was mad at him.

Josephine’s face turned red for some reason. She was usually bold and outspoken, but now she had experienced what it was like to be embarrassed. She didn’t even dare to look at Ethan’s face.

This man went to such great lengths just to meet her. Putting everything else aside, this man knew how to woo a woman.

She was actually touched.

“Come here, Brennen.” Behind them, Luke called an assistant who had come to fetch them. He pointed at Josephine’s luggage, then said, “Help Miss Jacobson load her luggage into the car.”

Brennen Porter was Luke’s best assistant, so of course he knew how much effort Luke put in to pursue Josephine. Hence, he hastily ran over to do his boss’ bidding.

Also, he was also quite a perceptive man. When he saw the tall and handsome figure next to Josephine, he guessed that Luke had met with a strong rival.

“Miss Jacobson, I’ll help you with your luggage.” With that, Brennen moved to take Josephine’s suitcase. However, a large hand pressed on the suitcase, stopping him. He was even given a sharp look. “Don’t touch it.”

Obviously, only a certain somebody was allowed to carry this suitcase, and everyone else wasn’t permitted to touch it.

Josephine was feeling awkward now. On the cruise ship, she and Heidi had agreed to take Luke’s car home, so if she refused now, it wouldn’t look too good.

“Quarles, can’t you see that Josephine and Mrs. Jacobson are getting in my car?” Luke stepped forward and spoke up. Ethan made him feel very threatened.

At the side, Heidi was both surprised and shocked. Since when had her daughter gained so many admirers? Two men were fighting for the spot to send Josephine home; Heidi had nothing to worry about when it came to finding suitors for her daughter.

Josephine bit her lip and said, “Mr. Quarles, thank you for offering us a ride, but I’ve already promised to take Luke’s car home. Please go back.”

Josephine couldn’t back out on her promise to Luke. Also, she was caught off guard by Ethan’s sudden appearance. She was shaken, and she needed time to calm down.

Ethan was sullen. He came all the way to fetch her, but she refused his offer to send her home. Still, he respected her decision.

“All right. I’ll be in town for a while, so let’s have a meal together sometime,” the man said in a low voice.

When Josephine heard that, she recalled something her parents always said. She was their only daughter, so they didn’t want her to marry off to someone far away. They weren’t counting on her to take care of them, but they worried that she would have to take a long trip home if she was in trouble.

“Okay.” Josephine nodded. This man doesn’t live here permanently. I see…

Ethan still carried her luggage to Luke’s car. When Luke walked over to them, he thought his car was cool enough, but he didn’t expect to see the black car parked beside it. He couldn’t help but take another glance at it. He was quite knowledgeable about cars, and he knew that the car was unbelievably expensive. Also, this was definitely a private custom-made model.

He didn’t know which millionaire it belonged to. According to what he knew of Averna, no one was driving a car like that.

Just then, Ethan thought of something, then said to Josephine, who was about to get into the car, “Hold on. I have a gift for you.”

Josephine was stunned. He even prepared a gift?

Luke was wondering who owned the car when he saw Ethan walking to the back seat of the car and opening the door. Ethan retrieved an exquisitely wrapped golden box from it, and Luke’s eyes widened to twice their usual size.

F*ck, it’s his, thought Luke.

As Josephine gazed at the gift Ethan was extending toward her, she didn’t dare take it. She guessed that there would be jewelry of some sort inside, and those things were usually very expensive, so the gift would be on another level compared to normal gifts.

“Please, take it,” Ethan said to her.

Josephine hesitated for a moment, then pushed his gift away. “It’s okay. Thank you, anyway. See you next time.”

Josephine chose not to accept it. She feared that if she did, she wouldn’t be able to give him something of equal value in return.

Josephine got into the car and closed the door. Luke told his assistant Brennen to quickly start driving and leave the place. He didn’t want Ethan to take even one more look at Josephine.

Ethan stood where he was, watching the car drive away. A hunter’s look flitted across his eyes.

He was definitely going to pursue this woman.

Josephine sat in the car, listening to the conversation between Heidi and Luke as she filled her mind with thoughts of Ethan. She wasn’t a fool; she could sense that Ethan was trying to pursue her.

But why was the man pursuing her? Did he think she was different and wanted to play with her? Or did he actually want to marry her after he won her heart?

If it were the former, Josephine would say no without hesitation, because she didn’t want to be any man’s toy. If it were the latter, she didn’t know this man that well, and she realized she never knew much about him save for his name.

After Luke’s car drove into the city, it headed east. Then, it finally pulled up in front of a row of old bungalows. Josephine and Heidi got out of the car, and Luke enthusiastically carried their luggage inside as well. Heidi asked Luke to stay for some tea and rest a while.

Luke couldn’t have asked for a better offer. However, Josephine was quite tired, so she went upstairs to rest. After clearing her luggage, Josephine lay on the bed. She didn’t want to do anything. She just wanted to lie in bed.

Just then, there was a notification on her phone. She usually didn’t care about messages, but this time, she actively grabbed her phone and looked at it. Her heart skipped a beat again.

It was a message from Ethan.

‘Have you arrived? Tell me when you’re home.’ He actually spoke as if he were her boyfriend.

Josephine’s face warmed up.

‘I just got home. Thank you for your concern,’ Josephine replied.

‘Are you free tonight? Maybe we can go out for dinner,’ he then asked.

Josephine instantly closed her eyes and buried her face in the blanket as she thought about it. He was asking her out so actively. If she agreed, would he think that she was an easy woman?

However, she simply wanted to go. Josephine felt like she was a walking contradiction. When she remembered the kiss on the boat, Josephine felt an electric current running through her body, numbing her.

She had never touched a man in her 25 years of existence, and it was quite sad to think about. If she had gotten into a serious relationship before, she would have had more experience in romance, and she wouldn’t be like a maiden who had to consider so much and be so fearful simply because a man asked her out for dinner.

‘To go or not to go?’ That was a question worth pondering.

‘It’s just a meal, so it won’t hurt to get to know each other, right?’ said one part of her. Another part of her retorted, saying, ‘You’ll have to treat him to another meal next time. Also, Mom said that if the place is not reachable by bus, it’s considered a far place to get married off to.’

She wasn’t even sure if Ethan was a local. If so, was it even necessary to continue interacting with him?

Just then, she received another message on her phone.

‘What’s the matter? Is it a bad time?’ the man asked.

‘Yes, I don’t think I can make it. Sorry!’ Josephine replied, declining. It was exactly because she was a calm and logical person that she would be single in her 25 years of existence. She analyzed every man who approached her like a calculator. If the person wasn’t someone worth dating, she wouldn’t even give the person a chance.

Unfortunately, Ethan was sorted into this category.

Josephine scratched her messy hair, then let out a sigh. Forget it. I’m not worthy of a super rich and handsome man like Ethan, anyway.

Josephine decided that she would stop asking for trouble. She would focus on her goals at work and see if she could become a news anchor before she turned 27. She couldn’t be a reporter forever!

Josephine continued in the direction she had planned for her life. Anything getting in the way of her progress could be abandoned. She wanted to focus on money and her career.

“Joey, come down! Luke is leaving.” Heidi knocked on the door, calling out.

Josephine opened the door. Luke had helped them out a lot, so she should see him off at least. When Josephine arrived at the hall, she saw him standing there. “Luke, thank you so much for your help throughout the trip. I’ll treat you to a meal next time.”

“Next time? Why not tonight? I’ll book a restaurant.” He didn’t want to miss the opportunity.

When Heidi heard that, she chimed, “Yes, let’s do it tonight! Joey, you’re always so busy with work, so who knows when you’ll have the time.”

Heidi was quite satisfied with Luke. After all, she knew his background well, and his grandfather was good friends with Josephine’s grandfather too. Heidi would be satisfied if her daughter could get married to Luke.

Josephine thought it made sense. She would have to start working soon, and she might get so busy that she wouldn’t even have time to eat.

right, tonight, then.

be here by 5.00PM,” Luke

Josephine smiled. “Sure.”

when Heidi called out to her from the couch. “Joey, come take a seat. I have something

had no choice but to sit next to her mother. She then

what’s your relationship with Mr. Quarles? Why did he come over to pick

“I don’t know either.”

is he from? What’s his address? He looks like he’s of mixed heritage, so is he a foreigner?” Heidi had quite a

not from around here. Oh, he probably

commoners, and we

really not marry off to a place far from home?” Josephine

even asked her a rhetorical question in

reluctant to get married off to a faraway place too. After giving birth to her, her mother

parents and grandparents and just marry off to a place far

5-star hotel, Ethan sat on the couch and held a wine glass in his hand. There was silent contemplation behind his eyes. He

out for a meal either. Even if

a piece of paper. “Sir, this is Miss Jacobson’s address, which I’ve asked

curving into a smile.

good at waiting. He would always find a way to get what he wanted or to invite the person

was 4.30PM. She washed her hair, then picked an outfit suitable for early spring. After putting on some light makeup, she waited for Luke to come

messages after that. She subconsciously sneered.

seem like the

about where she could bring Luke for dinner tonight. Josephine suddenly had a craving for a barbecue. All the wedding banquet offered was fine dining; hence, upon returning,

Barbecue it is, then.

asking him if he was up for some barbecue. Luke immediately replied, ‘Sure, I’d like some barbecue too. I’ll be there in

at the barbecue shop she

street outside Josephine’s house, a black SUV was parked by the road. A certain man, who wasn’t too familiar with this area, was looking at the GPS. This was part of the old town area, so the streets were more closely

for instructions. The older

the car and continued driving. At the junction, Luke’s car also

purse in hand. Soon, she saw Luke’s car heading her way. However, she didn’t notice a black SUV behind

to open the car door for Josephine. At the same time, Ethan was looking at the signs. Suddenly, his gaze was

opened the door for Josephine. Startled, Josephine held onto the car window as she looked at the car beside them. Just then, the window of the SUV rolled down. A handsome face with sunglasses came into

than Ethan. Josephine was completely stunned. He took off his sunglasses, his deep amber eyes staring

offended by what he saw, and Josephine’s mind turned blank for a few seconds. She never thought that Ethan would show

How awkward.

doing here? Joey promised to have dinner with me tonight. Go back to where

looked at Josephine. “Do you mind the three

mind,” Luke

like Ethan, and Ethan didn’t seem too fond of Luke either. If they had a meal together, what

tonight, so I’ll treat you to another meal next time, Mr. Quarles,” Josephine said, smiling.

made a U-turn, but the SUV behind it made a U-turn

drove, he stared at the SUV, following closely behind them. Fuming, he said, “Why

rearview mirror. Ethan’s car kept tailing them, and even when Luke rounded the corner, Ethan followed suit. What

way as us,” Josephine said to

Luke had just parked the car when the black SUV menacingly

for a few seconds. Does he want to have dinner

couldn’t help but go up to him and

I don’t really know where to have dinner. Am I bothering you?” Ethan raised an eyebrow

of course not.” Josephine smiled

snatch Josephine away, Luke reached out and grabbed Josephine’s hand. “Joey, let’s go

away by Luke’s force, but she turned and glanced at Ethan behind her. She actually hoped that Ethan would go to another

heat? The food here is

table they had reserved, and Josephine couldn’t help looking at Ethan.

cleared her throat, but soon, she heard the whispering of the young female servers around her. They were

at the attention that he was getting at all. He was then served by a relatively innocent-looking

by Josephine, who suddenly felt uncomfortable when she saw Ethan smiling charmingly at the waitress. Josephine didn’t feel like ordering anything, so she left it to Luke to do it for her. Luke ordered all the dishes on the menu as if he was afraid that there wouldn’t be enough for Josephine to eat. In reality, he had planned to take her to an upscale steakhouse, but since she wanted

smile was. As she held her teacup, she smiled back politely and decided not to look at him anymore. After all, she was here with Luke, so

60 this week, and he’s definitely invited your grandfather. Come

resuming work tomorrow.” Josephine politely declined, not exactly interested in

Luke

got up from her seat. She felt too uncomfortable with Ethan being there,

Josephine entered the toilet cubicle, two

He has facial features

a perfect-looking mixed-raced man! He’s

near him makes me feel

why he came to our restaurant alone to eat

girl at the next

my god! That girl is so lucky to be pursued by such a handsome

who was inside the cubicle, couldn’t help but smile bitterly. Being pursued wasn’t necessarily a blessing; it was also a form of pressure. She couldn’t be sure if Ethan went there to eat because of her. What if he just wanted food? She believed that she shouldn’t flatter herself. Otherwise,

hands and returned to her seat. She then saw Ethan sitting under the light and wearing a black shirt that perfectly matched the surroundings. He seemed to be glowing, and even his hair strands were

beside her, was irritated as Ethan clearly ruined his date with Josephine. Moreover, his existence overshadowed Luke’s advantages, leaving him

Luke instantly suggested, “Hey, let’s change seats

“Why?” Josephine asked.

see,

of us so it’s inappropriate to change to

barbeque restaurant.” Luke took the

and grabbed her forehead as she was speechless after hearing his remarks. Luke was wealthy, but there was no need to flaunt it since it was just

and the next moment, her glance accidentally landed on the man across from her. Although he was

seemed like her thoughts had been seen through

watched how he ate. Ethan ordered a single portion. Since he was born into a wealthy family, he possessed an inherent sense

a while, Josephine suddenly heard coughs from next to her. She glanced over and saw Ethan holding a glass of water while his fair face was flushed red. It was obvious

food, you shouldn’t have come here. You took it upon yourself.” Luke couldn’t help but sneer,

at him before getting up and walking to Ethan’s side. “Mr. Quarles, are you okay?” she asked concernedly. Hearing that, Ethan raised his head, and his eyes were so red that they seemed like they had been stung,

handle spicy food, you can just have

for your concern, Miss Josephine.” Ethan smiled, looking

Luke started coughing as well. Hearing that, Josephine turned around

could you please pour me

him a glass of water. Luke then added, “Joey,

originally planned to have a good meal, but after what just happened, she

a bottle of beer. Josephine quickly said to him, “Luke, you shouldn’t drink

okay. I can handle alcohol well. Drinking a glass won’t make me drunk, and it won’t show

Ethan obediently ate the non-spicy barbeque that he ordered. He didn’t seem hungry, and his gaze kept glancing toward Josephine, making her start eating more ladylike, unlike her hearty eating style. She was taking small bites and chewing softly. In fact, she didn’t want to act like this, but Ethan’s gaze exerted a kind

of the food he ordered. Meanwhile, Luke had no appetite, so he drank a bottle of beer

went to the restroom, she paid the bill for both tables. When Luke wanted to get the bill, he complained, “Josephine, I know you said you are treating me, but I should be paying! How

treat you. Are you done? Let’s go,” Josephine said to

paid his bill too. He was stunned for a few seconds and hurriedly walked out after Josephine and Luke when she

took out his car key and said, “Josephine, do you want to go for a drive? It’s still early, and we can

need to go home and get some

You’ll have enough time to work on it after I send you home. Let’s go and relax a bit,”

Josephine didn’t want to go out

in surprise, and

drunk. I have a good tolerance for

in a deep voice. He then took Josephine’s

momentarily stunned, but Ethan had already pulled her to the passenger

I can take you home. I really can.

rest and sober up before driving again. Drinking and driving is no joke. I’ll let Mr. Quarles took me home

the car, and the black SUV drove away. Josephine saw Ethan press on the navigation system a few times with his fingers, and a clear route was mapped out.

please turn left up ahead.” She pointed

and continued driving straight ahead. Josephine’s hand was awkwardly suspended in mid-air, which she withdrew

Quarles, you took the

want to take you home yet.” Ethan looked at

if you’re

dinner together.” Ethan turned Luke’s arrangement into

Luke, so how could she still agree to Ethan’s request?

get some work done, so you should just give me a

before chuckling, “Do you think I

and even called her out for it, she was so embarrassed that her face

you want to?” Ethan

to,” Josephine announced,

I will be sad. You rejected my offer to give you a ride earlier on and even refused to have dinner with me. Now, you are again rejecting my offer to give you a ride. You sure

with just a call from you, a dozen girls will willingly turn up.” Josephine looked out the window and realized that it felt nice to sit in his

dozen girls. I only want to invite you,” Ethan

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