Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled

Chapter 427

There had always been friction between Neil and Russel. Their relationship had shifted from childhood friends to sworn enemies over the past couple of years. So, I had anticipated their conversation wouldn’t be all sunshine and rainbows.

Russel had likely suggested Neil to recognize his current status and stop meddling in his affairs.

“Do you really think I believe those kids are yours?” Neil’s face appeared icy cold on the surveillance footage.

“I showed you the DNA test results. Do you want me to detail out how she and I conceived these kids?” Russel, being Neil’s long-time friend, knew exactly where to poke to bring out the pain.

The mere thought of such a scene was unbearable for Neil. The fact that he had managed to keep his distance for this long was nothing short of a miracle.

Russel’s words, however, were undoubtedly stirring up those unbearable thoughts in Neil.

Then Neil punched Russel in a fit of rage. Russel didn’t retaliate. When I stepped out, Neil was preparing for another round.

I turned off the surveillance footage, my mind in turmoil.

I hadn’t expected Russel to use this matter to provoke Neil. His actions not only shocked me but also left me disappointed.

“Stella, you go ahead and eat. I have to step out for a bit,” I told Stella as I got up. “Can you ask Norah to watch the kids? I’ll be back soon.”

Stella nodded. She was too preoccupied to meddle in my affairs.

I went straight to Russel’s place. He wasn’t working that evening and seemed surprised to see me. I rarely ever visited him on my own accord. My visits were usually at the behest of my parents.

Russel’s home was as simple and cozy as ever. The aroma of a freshly cooked meal wafted through the air. Stella was at my place today so he hadn’t joined us for dinner.

tender. His hair shimmered softly under the lamp

to sway hearts with his act. However, his inner darkness and obsession were just like the man I had known

down on the sofa, “Russel, can you tell

to stop bothering you. Didn’t I explain that to you?” Russel poured me a glass of water and sat across from me. He wore a gray t-shirt and matching trousers, appearing refined and gentle. His icy demeanor had completely melted away, replaced by

Russel one last

a moment, but his answer remained

a pang of disappointment. He hadn’t truly opened up

at the

to have noticed my discomfort. His eyes squinted a little, “What’s wrong? You seem upset.”

footage, the one at the front gate. I heard your entire conversation with Neil. Russel, why did you say those things?”

smile on Russel’s face froze. His lips tightened, hinting at a coldness.

if my words had

believe the DNA test I showed him, he’ll definitely seek the truth. Only if he feels disgusted and repulsed by the very thought of it, will he

I asked with

as well as you do, if not more.”

But I couldn’t bring myself to trust Russel fully. His explanation made it seem like he was doing all of this for me and the kids. How could

water glass on the table. His

expression seemed somewhat wronged and a bit uneasy.

already complex emotions became even more tangled. I didn’t feel like staying there any longer. Without

heard Russel call

I got back home, I

troublesome situation

had called Stella, and the two were