CHAPTER 686: CHAPTER 686: RELENTLESS SHADOW

Samuel Quinn’s expression shifted from dazed to understanding in just a few seconds.

"Oh, I see." He reverted to his usual nonchalant self, looking at the group at the table with a face full of disbelief, "So today is a set-up dinner? Forcing me to help out?"

Shane Sinclair leisurely said, "How can you say that? If you help, there are benefits for you too."

Iris Lockwood laughed, "Exactly. Isn’t it nice to have Sharon as your goddaughter?"

Yara Reagan chimed in with a knowing smile, "Yes, as Sharon’s godmother, I always feel so happy."

Samuel Quinn couldn’t hold back his laughter, "Alright, you guys, stop trying to fool me."

As he spoke, he looked at Evelyn Clayton, his expression becoming more serious, "So, you’re afraid Sharon’s biological father will take her away?"

Although Samuel Quinn had a good relationship with them, he wasn’t clear about some things.

Like Evelyn Clayton’s past, for instance.

Evelyn Clayton didn’t want to explain further, just said, "He doesn’t know Sharon is his daughter— or more precisely, at the moment, he’s not sure he even has a biological daughter. But I’m very afraid. I’m afraid once he sees Sharon, he’ll start to suspect. So, I thought it best to let him think Sharon is someone else’s child with me."

Samuel Quinn understood, and his expression turned mischievous again, "Well, that’s perfect. Let’s just say that you and I are a couple, I don’t lose anything."

Evelyn Clayton laughed, "Sure, I’d be honored."

"I thought it was something serious, don’t worry! I will make sure everything’s arranged clearly, absolutely won’t let Evelyn’s ex-husband see any flaws!" Samuel Quinn got excited.

Before Evelyn Clayton could say anything, Shane Sinclair’s face darkened, speaking irritably, "He’s not Evelyn’s ex-husband; he has nothing to do with her."

"Alright, alright, I get it." Samuel Quinn raised his glass with a smile, "Come on, celebrate my free goddaughter!"

After a drink, Evelyn Clayton felt even more clear-headed.

She earnestly looked at Samuel Quinn, "Samuel, I really appreciate you agreeing to this. After this is over, I owe you a favor. Whether it’s money or partnership, just let me know."

"There’s no need to stand on ceremony." Samuel Quinn, too, was rarely serious, "You’re raising Sharon on your own, although your family helps, it’s a pity for the child not to have a father, and you lack lifelong support. As a friend, I must certainly be clear about helping you."

Samuel Quinn was a native of Aethelburg, and although he appeared carefree, he had quite traditional values.

Evelyn Clayton didn’t refute his words, just smiled and clinked her glass with his.

The meal could be considered enjoyable for all.

By the time they were leaving, it was almost midnight, and everyone had drunk a little too much. Samuel Quinn, in particular, was quite drunk, his steps unsteady.

Moreover, he even handed his car keys to Sharon to let her take them home as a toy.

Having no other choice, Evelyn Clayton asked Shane Sinclair to go with Yara Reagan and Iris Lockwood, while she helped Samuel Quinn into his car.

Just as she closed the car door, Evelyn Clayton was about to tell the driver to head to Samuel Quinn’s place when she saw a black McLaren stopping in front of them to show off.

Evelyn Clayton’s eyes narrowed slightly.

She watched for a moment, then got out of the car, her gaze cold as she looked at the person getting out of the car—

James Grant.

The man, in a trench coat, bringing with him the slight chill of Aethelburg’s October, walked slowly towards her.

James Grant’s deep-set eyes first glanced at Samuel Quinn in the car, then spoke in a slightly hoarse voice, "Been drinking?"

Evelyn Clayton let out a cold laugh.

"Director Grant, you’re really like a haunting spirit."