Inheriting the Legacy: Inheriting the Legacy, #1

By Odelette North

Elsie woke up and traveled to 22 years ago
I have no money, no mobile phone, and I can't find my parents who are not yet married.
After three days of wandering, she decided to seek refuge with her uncle, whom she had no relatives and whom she had never met before, the richest young man in the city, Marshall.
"I came from 22 years later. You will mysteriously disappear a year later. Before you disappeared, you left all your property to me——
A little baby that is not yet born. "
Facing this legendary man who is uncertain, disabled but extremely handsome, Elsie looked sincere: Do you believe it?
The man was silent for a moment: I believe, as the heir to my inheritance

• Language: English
• Publisher: Odelette North
• Release date: May 8, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224483808

Book preview

Chapter 1

At 8:30 in the morning , there is still an hour left before going to work. In the most luxurious office building in Zhoucheng, a steady stream of handsome men and beautiful women have begun to clock in for work.

Elsie was wearing lamb pajamas, ignoring the strange looks around her, and walked briskly to the front desk: Can I see Marshall today?

The girl at the front desk smiled professionally: Hello, I'm not sure about Marshall's itinerary. I can make an appointment for you first.

You said three days ago that you would make an appointment for me. Elsie reminded.

Front desk: Yes, I can help you make an appointment.

Elsie: ...

Looking at each other for a moment, the receptionist smiled more professionally.

Okay, you make the appointment first . Elsie sighed, grabbed a handful of free snacks from the table, and asked by the way, Can you get me a glass of water?

The receptionist's mouth twitched, but she still poured her a glass.

Elsie grabbed snacks in one hand and water in the other, then turned and sat in the lounge area in front of the huge floor-to-ceiling window.

As soon as she left, another girl came to the front desk and asked in a low voice, She hasn't given up yet?

No. The receptionist kept smiling.

The girl was amazed. Who is this girl? Is she really the president's niece? The pajamas she's wearing seem to be from ADS. This brand is not cheap. It must cost at least five figures.

What niece? The president is not even 30 years old, how can he have such an old niece? She's more like a dream girl. The receptionist glanced at Elsie from a distance. She was wearing white fluffy pajamas with lamb patterns printed on them. She looked harmless, but she was out of place in the office building full of elites.

She stared at it for a moment, her face showing disdain. ADS makes suits, and her suit is obviously fake. She can't even afford to eat, and she eats our snacks every day, how can she afford a brand name?

The girl nodded in agreement and looked at Elsie secretly.

Although the two of them were spying very secretly, Elsie still noticed the look of three parts contempt and two parts sympathy... She took a bite of the bread and looked sadly at the hustle and bustle of traffic outside the French window.

Things in this world are unpredictable!

Three nights ago, she was celebrating her 21st birthday in the villa given to her by her uncle. The whole family was waiting for her to blow out the candles, but when she went upstairs to get a drink, she was transported back to 22 years ago. .

Twenty-two years ago, one year before she was born, she didn’t bring a mobile phone or money, and she couldn’t find her parents in this era. After wandering aimlessly for most of the night, she accidentally came to this business district. Suddenly I thought of my little uncle——

Marshall.

She didn't know much about this little uncle. Firstly, it was because her parents kept silent every time they mentioned him. Secondly, because he mysteriously disappeared the day before she was born, leaving even less image data. It was so pitiful that if she hadn't accidentally dug out a photo from home when she was twelve , she might not even know what he looked like to this day.

She only knew that her uncle was a good friend of her parents and had no blood relationship with her. However, he made a will before she was born, designating her as the heir to all his property. The office building where she was at the moment was one of the huge shares of the inheritance.

Although she had never met him before, she had no relatives at the moment, so she had to come to him shamelessly. I believe that a man who is generous enough to give all his property to his friend's daughter must be a warm, kind, and just person, and he would not stand idly by and watch her cheap niece who appeared out of nowhere without any relationship.

Elsie thought of the handsome face in the photo and was about to try her luck at the front desk again. However, as soon as she stood up, she noticed that the atmosphere in the hall had changed strangely. The people who were chatting dispersed, and each of the career elites holding an iced Americano walked more hurriedly. Even the smile of the girl at the front desk became more professional.

As a filial daughter who often accompanies her CEO father to work, Elsie is keenly aware of the reason for the change in atmosphere.

It must be the boss!

She subconsciously looked towards the revolving door, and sure enough, she saw an extended car through the constantly spinning glass door. Bodyguards were standing in a line on both sides, and the driver wearing white gloves went around to the back door, bent over and opened the door.

As everyone was on high alert, an exquisite cane gently fell to the ground, and then a slender figure came out of the car.

Appeared!

Her warm, kind and righteous little uncle appeared!

The revolving door slowed down suddenly, and the noble man appeared in the hall slowly with a cane. Elsie was first dazed by his face, which was more beautiful than in the photo , and then looked at his left foot.

She had read his information and knew that he had been in a car accident when he was sixteen, leaving his left foot disabled. The way he walked now seemed not much different from a normal person, so she didn't know how serious his injury was.

Amid the sounds of Hello, Marshall, Elsie was distracted for three seconds. When she came to her senses and looked up, she met Marshall's cold and distant eyes.

She had just stared at his feet unscrupulously, and Marshall had noticed it from such a distance. At this moment, their eyes met, and his expression became even more stern . As a result, the person he was staring at suddenly smiled like a flower: Little...

Marshall!

Someone passed her and rushed towards Marshall. The word uncle was stuck in Elsie's throat, and all her emotions were interrupted.

When the man was about to get close to Marshall, he was pinned to the ground by the bodyguard and burst into tears: Marshall, I was wrong. I shouldn't have leaked the project budget. I really know I was wrong. Marshall, please give me another chance. My wife is about to give birth. I can't lose this job...

It was working hours and the hall was bustling with people. Although people knew they couldn't watch the boss's busyness, many of them couldn't help their curiosity and wandered around from near and far, with their ears pricked up. They didn't look like workplace elites at all .

Marshall turned his attention away from Elsie, looked at his former employee crying with his face on the ground, and signaled the bodyguard to let him go.

The bodyguards looked at each other and did as they were told, but they stood guard vigilantly to prevent him from pouncing again.

The man was sensible. After getting up from the ground, he stayed quiet and stopped approaching. He just wiped his tears and begged for mercy: Marshall, I really didn't leak the secret on purpose. Please forgive me this time for the fact that I have worked for Xie's for more than ten years. I really...

You caused Xie's loss of nearly 60 million this time. If I keep you, how can I explain to the other employees who lost their first quarter bonuses because of you? Marshall said, with a trace of pity in his eyes. Xie's can't keep you. How about this, I'll call the CEO of Hongyi, and you can go there to interview for a new position.

What kind of saintly father is this! He harmed the company and his colleagues, but he was still recommended by the president to work in other big companies! Her uncle is so kind, so warm, and so righteous! Elsie's eyes sparkled, and she wanted to recognize him on the spot.

The employees present were all moved by Marshall's generosity. The man was also a little shocked: Really?

Well, go ahead, Marshall said, and held out his hand to him, Give me Xie's ID card.

Okay, okay... The man was overwhelmed by the great news and quickly handed over his work badge.

Marshall was about to take it, but then he noticed that it was covered with his tears, and suddenly retracted his hand. The secretary next to him took it. Marshall smiled gently, walked around the man and went to the private elevator.

Elsie was right near the exclusive elevator. When she saw him coming towards her, she was a little excited. She took a step forward, but before she could say anything, she heard the secretary whisper to her, Marshall, do you really want to recommend him to work at Hongyi?

I recommend he die, Marshall deadpanned.

The flower-like smile that Elsie had just prepared suddenly froze on her face.

The two of them passed each other, and Marshall glanced at her with his narrow, slightly raised eyes , and asked the secretary: What do the company security guards do for food? Why do they put all kinds of monsters and monsters in there?

Elsie: ... This ghost and snake god shouldn't be talking about the person just now, right?

By the time she came to her senses, Marshall had already gotten on the elevator, and the two looked at each other from a distance. Marshall held his cane and showed a provocative smile.

Elsie: ...

The elevator door closed, and security came quickly. Facing such a small, harmless little girl wearing lamb pajamas, he was about to persuade her, but Elsie raised her hand in a deep voice to stop her: No need to say anything. , I’ll go out right now.

The security guard breathed a sigh of relief: Thank you for your cooperation.

Elsie walked out without saying a word, her thin back looking a bit... pitiful. The security guard sighed and thought it was better not to meddle in other people's business.

It was still a bit cold in Zhoucheng in early March. After leaving the office building with a constant temperature all year round, Elsie's pajamas were not enough. She looked around and found a cafe to sit down. She kept staring at Mrs. Xie. The door of the office building.

Although her little uncle is not very warm, kind and righteous, he is the only one who can help her find her parents now. She missed the opportunity to talk just now, so she will wait here until he comes out of the building and then Have a good chat with him.

Elsie made up her mind and sat in front of the floor-to-ceiling window to wait. The aroma of desserts and coffee in the cafe blended together, washing over her taste buds over and over again. She swallowed silently, pretending not to be hungry at all.

Elsie sat there for nearly eight hours from morning to night. The waiter in the cafe finally couldn't help but come over and said, Ma'am, would you like to order anything?

Can't you sit here without ordering anything? asked Elsie eagerly.

She had a pair of puppy dog eyes, and although they were quite irritating most of the time, she was really pitiful when she looked pitiful. At least the clerk immediately softened his heart: No, no... I didn't mean that. I just saw that you haven't eaten for a day.

Thank you for your concern, but I'm not hungry, Elsie said, and her stomach growled.

A smile flashed in the clerk's eyes, and he turned to the counter and got a glass of milk and a piece of cake.

I'll treat you to a meal. She said with a smile.

Elsie's eyes turned red: Thank you, wait until I get to know my parents, and ask them to buy you a house.

She had been here all day and heard the clerk complaining to his colleagues about the room rates.

...Thank you. The clerk was speechless and amused.

After drinking a glass of milk and a piece of cake, Elsie came back to life and continued to stare in the direction of the office building.

It was getting dark, and the time to get off work had passed. Many people came out of the building one after another , and soon it became deserted again. The food given by the clerk had been completely consumed, and the cafe had reached the end of the working day. Elsie came out of the cafe and was startled by the cold wind outside . She quickly ran to the front of the office building to take shelter from the wind.

Before she knew it, it was already past ten o'clock. Elsie was cold and hungry, and was about to give up when the revolving door suddenly opened. She subconsciously looked and saw Marshall appear surrounded by a crowd of people .

Uncle! This time she did not hesitate and immediately jumped up and waved at him.

Marshall turned his head when he heard the voice, looked at her, and then walked forward expressionlessly.

Elsie: ...

After a brief silence, she hurriedly chased after him, but remembering the lesson in the morning when the man was pinned to the ground by the bodyguard, she did not dare to get too close.

Uncle! I'm Elsie. You may not know me, but you should know Chu Chen. He is my father, and the superstar Phyllis is my mother. I know this is unbelievable, but in fact I traveled back from 22 years later. One year later, you will mysteriously disappear. Before you disappear, you leave all your property to me, an unborn baby. I...

The bodyguards were all professionally trained, and their expressions did not change when they heard her remarks. On the contrary, the secretary who followed Marshall in the morning could not help but look at her again and again when he heard her words, and silently put his right hand into his pocket, ready to call the mental hospital at any time.

Compared to them, Marshall was more direct. He stopped and asked her, Your father's surname is Chu, your mother's surname is Ye, and your surname is Ji?

Seeing that he was willing to stop and talk to her, Elsie quickly replied: My father took my grandmother's surname, and I took my grandfather's surname.

Yeah, that makes sense, Marshall nodded. You traveled here from 22 years later?

Elsie: Yes.

I'll disappear in a year and leave my property to you? Marshall's eyes fell on her lamb pajamas.

Elsie nodded again, That's right.

Marshall stopped talking and looked at her silently.

The cold wind was biting, and Elsie trembled: Uncle, do you believe me?

I can believe it, Marshall said carefully, Then as the heir to my estate, can you do me a favor?

... She came to him for help, how did she become the one who wanted to help him? Elsie was speechless for a moment, convinced that if she didn't agree, then this little uncle, who was obviously not very gentle, kind and just, wouldn't help her either.

After a moment of silence, Elsie nodded: You tell me.

Marshall raised his cane and poked at the luxuriously decorated shopping mall opposite: That's my competitor's shopping mall. It will officially open in three days.

Elsie understood instantly.

I hope you won't disappoint me. Marshall entrusted him with the important task.

Elsie nodded deeply and stretched out her hand to him: Uncle, I have no food to eat and no place to live now. Can you help me out a little bit?

How much?

Give me... a hundred thousand first? Elsie cautiously proposed a small amount.

Marshall turned and walked away.

Fifty thousand! Thirty thousand! If not, ten thousand! Seeing that he didn't even turn his head, Elsie became anxious. I don't know the extent of currency inflation in this era. You have to give me enough food money for three days!

Marshall stopped and Elsie quickly chased after him, looking at him pitifully, Uncle...

Marshall glanced at his secretary, who didn't know how much to give, so she just took out a little from her wallet , which was about a thousand dollars.

Marshall took out a bill from the thousand dollars and gave it to her.

... Just one hundred? Elsie questioned her life. Uncle, don't lie to me. Although I just came here, I know that buying a pancake with sausage costs fifteen.

Do you want it? Marshall's tone was warm, exactly the same as when he spoke to his former employee in the morning.

Elsie immediately took the money and said, Well, little uncle, let's make a deal. If I help you, you have to help me contact my parents .

Marshall glanced at her, his narrow, upturned eyes dark and unclear.

good.

He opened his thin lips, agreed, turned around and got into the car.

The secretary followed closely behind him, sat in the passenger seat and asked, Marshall, I feel like that girl just now is not in a good mental state. Do we really not need to call the police?

That's not necessary. Marshall looked out the car window indifferently. Elsie was still standing there in a daze, holding a hundred dollars.

He's just a little psychopath. What trouble can he cause? Marshall spoke slowly, with a hint of sarcasm in his eyes.

As the car started, Elsie's figure gradually shrank and then completely disappeared from the car window. Marshall also closed his eyes and leaned back in his seat to take a nap.

Five days later, it was another sunny day.

It was only about three in the afternoon when Marshall finished processing the last contract. He stood up and walked to the French window, staring at the flowing road downstairs for a long time, and suddenly remembered something: Why did the shopping mall across the street suddenly delay its opening?

Do you remember that little psychopath a few days ago? asked the secretary who was making coffee for him.

Marshall turned around: What's wrong with her?

On the day of the opening, she used the red silk that someone else had used to cut the ribbon and kidnapped the only money tree in the mall, the secretary replied.

Marshall: ...

chapter 2

After a strange silence , the secretary pushed up his gold-rimmed glasses: Shocked, Marshall, I'm shocked too.

Marshall retracted his emotion for a second: Is the opening delayed just because a money tree was lost?

That is not an ordinary money tree. John spent a lot of money to have it opened by a master. It is said that as long as it is placed in the lobby on the first floor on the opening day, the mall can be prosperous for ten years. However, it was stolen on the opening day. The master said that it would be opened just like that. It's unlucky, so John can only find the tree first, the secretary explained.

Marshall ridiculed: What a master, he's just a liar. If John had spent all his efforts on feudal superstition at work, his business territory wouldn't be only one-third of Xie's...Have you found the money tree again?

It was recovered, but the auspicious time has been missed. We can only postpone the opening to another auspicious day, the secretary handed him the coffee and pushed his glasses. Now John has become a laughing stock in the industry because of this incident.

What about that little psychopath? Marshall was a little curious, Can John let her go?

In a society ruled by law, what else can he do except call the police? This matter is not a big deal, but it is not a small matter either. If John really wants to make a fuss about it, this little psychopath will inevitably go to jail. The secretary replied.

Marshall raised his eyebrows slightly: So he's serious about it?

He got serious, but the police couldn't find any information about the psychopath. She also insisted that she had traveled back from 22 years ago and asked the police to help her find her parents. The police suspected that she had mental problems, but couldn't find her identity. They could only temporarily place her in Qingshan Hospital in the south of the city, preparing to investigate who she was first.

Qingshan Hospital, the largest psychiatric hospital in Zhoucheng.

Marshall's expression gradually became subtle: How many days have you been in prison?

Two days, the secretary replied.

Marshall quietly began to drink his coffee while the secretary waited patiently.

After finishing a cup of coffee, Marshall put the cup down and said, Let's go.

Where are you going? the secretary was puzzled.

Marshall glanced at him and said, If I don't go find that little psychopath, how can I justify the information you have collected?

It's what I should do. The secretary stopped pretending.

Marshall snorted and walked out. The secretary sent a message to the driver and quickly followed.

As the largest psychiatric hospital in Zhoucheng, Qingshan Hospital is divided into three areas. Area One only has outpatient clinics and psychological counseling. Area Two accepts patients with serious illnesses that harm themselves and others. Area Three is home to patients who have committed criminal cases and is usually staffed by police officers.

As a criminal who had only stolen money trees, Elsie was allowed to live in a single room in Area 2 because she had not hurt anyone and the case itself had not yet been determined.

As night fell, the lights in the room came on automatically. Elsie sat cross-legged on the bed and started eating as soon as the nurse brought her the meal .

Eat slowly. If you don't have enough, there's more. The nurse reminded.

Thank you, nurse. Elsie thanked him while holding the bowl .

Her eyes were round and her skin was white. She looked several years younger than her real age. She was cute and tender. The nurse smiled kindly, but in her heart she felt sorry that such a beautiful little girl was mentally retarded.

Elsie didn't pay attention to her mood. When she saw her leaving, she said goodbye, and then concentrated on eating the sausages in the bowl. When she was eating seriously, the door suddenly opened again, and the nurse left and came back: Elsie

Huh? Elsie subconsciously looked up and saw Marshall behind her.

Elsie was stunned for a moment, then suddenly jumped off the bed with a whimper, and threw herself at Marshall with tears in her eyes: Little! Uncle! Uncle!

The nurse quickly moved out of the way, and Marshall was caught off guard and faced the little psycho. By the time he came to his senses, she had already thrown herself into his arms.

Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu Little uncle, I thought you wouldn't come to pick me up! Elsie wailed, but there were no tears.

Marshall held a cane in one hand and reluctantly threw the silicone spoon stuck on his suit to the ground with the other hand. He took out a paper towel and wiped off the rice grains on his suit. Then he slowly said, Let go.

Elsie immediately let go of him and looked at him expectantly.

Are you really crying? Marshall noticed that her eyes were a little red and her brows were slightly raised, which seemed like she deserved a beating.

Elsie sniffed and was about to speak when the nurse next to her smiled: Just now this handsome guy said he was your relative. I didn't believe it at first, but now that you are so excited, it must be true.

This is my little uncle. Elsie introduced the nurse sister.

Your family's genes are really good. Both boys and girls are beautiful. The nurse praised, and then said, Normally, you can't be visited now, but we will handle it under special circumstances. I'll give you half an hour.

After that, she left first.

Elsie immediately turned around and walked to the bed, put away the unfinished meal and the small table, and patted the bed diligently: Uncle, there's more...

She looked at the secretary.

Just call me Jiang Ge, the secretary said.

Uncle Jiang. Elsie said obediently.

Jiang Ge, who just turned thirty this year, twitched the corners of his mouth.

Sit down, please take a seat. Elsie offered her seat diligently.

As a result, neither of them sat down.

Elsie didn't care and asked Marshall directly: Uncle, are you here to take me home?

I just came to see you, Marshall replied.

Elsie: And then?

I'm done. I should go now, Marshall said, glancing at the pork and cabbage stewed with rice that she hadn't finished. You continue.

Elsie: ...

Marshall said he was coming to take a look, and it seemed that he really just wanted to take a look. After saying that , he started to walk out. Jiang Ge pushed his glasses and opened the door first.

Marshall had one foot out the door when he heard Elsie's faint voice behind him: Are you planning to break your promise, little uncle?

Marshall stopped and turned back calmly: What are you talking about? I don't understand what you are saying.

Elsie looked well-behaved: Five days ago, in front of the Xie Group headquarters, my uncle promised that as long as I helped you, you would take me to find my parents.

Is that true? Marshall was puzzled, as if he had really forgotten.

Elsie: You can go back and check the surveillance.

The surveillance at that location has no sound, Marshall reminded.

Elsie blinked and said, It's enough to be able to shoot the video. My uncle gave me a hundred dollars personally at that time.

Marshall narrowed his eyes, and the round handle of his cane was illuminated by the incandescent light, emitting a faint glow.

I don't know the owner of the mall. How could he suddenly steal the money tree after taking the money from my uncle? Elsie sighed. This is theft in the most serious sense. I don't know who is more guilty, the executor or the instigator.

Marshall hadn't been threatened in many years. Hearing this, he laughed with an ambiguous tone: I only gave you a hundred dollars. Who in their right mind would...

Halfway through his speech, he suddenly became quiet.

Elsie raised the corners of her lips and asked sincerely: If I were a normal person, would I be sent here?

Marshall: ...

After a long silence, Jiang Ge took the initiative to speak: Marshall, these are all small matters. As long as the mall withdraws the case, this matter will be resolved.

Marshall narrowed his eyes and stared at Elsie quietly. Elsie looked at him silently, looking pitiful.

After a moment, Marshall glanced at Jiang Ge, and Jiang Ge immediately went out to make a phone call.

There were only two of them left in the room. Elsie brought the unfinished meal to Marshall in a flattering manner: Uncle, you eat.

Marshall glanced at the bland food in the mental hospital and his eyes fell on her face again.

Elsie blinked and looked obedient.

You eat. Marshall spoke slowly in silence, but he was not angry because of her threat.

Elsie immediately put down the bowl and stood beside him like a punching bag.

Marshall ignored her performance and leaned casually against a relatively clean table.

Ten minutes later, Jiang Ge came in with an embarrassed look on his face.

What did he offer? Marshall asked.

Jiang Ge coughed lightly and said, Nothing much. I just want you to come in person the day after tomorrow to apologize and attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new mall.

Marshall glanced at Elsie, who immediately stood up straight and smiled sweetly.

Yeah. Marshall reluctantly agreed.

Jiang Ge immediately went out again, and this time he came back in only five minutes: He asked us to go to the police station now to go through the formalities.

Marshall stood up and walked out. Elsie quickly followed, but was stopped by Jiang Ge.

discipline......

Elsie. Elsie said quickly.

Elsie, Jiang Ge smiled, I'm sorry, the case hasn't been dismissed yet. You can't leave here yet.

I'll go with you to solve the case, Elsie replied.

Jiang Ge was helpless: This is against procedure. We can't take you away until the case is dismissed.

Elsie immediately looked at Marshall who was walking away: Uncle, will you come back to pick me up?

Marshall stopped and looked back, his cold eyes making Elsie feel a little chilled.

Once the case was dropped, she had nothing to threaten him with, and whether he would take her away or not would all depend on his conscience... Unfortunately, her little uncle didn't seem to have much conscience.

Then, if you don't want to take me away, can you help me contact my parents? I know that time travel is unbelievable, but as long as they see me, they will definitely believe me. Elsie retreated and asked. Secondly.

Marshall just glanced at her and continued walking out.

The street lights shone on the iron mesh of the corridor window, and the shadows fell on his tall back. He walked very slowly, but he could still see that his left foot was different from ordinary people. Elsie watched him getting further and further away, He couldn't help but wanted to chase him again, but was stopped again by Jiang Ge.

Elsie, please don't embarrass me. Jiang Ge sighed.

Elsie was anxious and could only shout at Marshall's back: If my parents are not in Zhoucheng, please contact my grandfather. His name is Ji Fumin and he is the chairman of Fengyang Technology. You are my father's Good friends should know him!

Marshall's footsteps stopped and disappeared at the end of the corridor the next second.

Elsie became completely honest. When Jiang Ge saw that she no longer chased her, he said sorry and left in a hurry.

The corridor was empty again, as if no one had been there.

After two hours, the nurse reminded Elsie it was time to leave.

The reporter said that you were just playing a prank and had no intention of stealing. Now the case has been withdrawn. You don't have to stay for investigation, and you don't have to worry about leaving a criminal record. The nurse took her to the hospital with a look of relief. At the door, he stuffed a few buns into her pocket, and then looked around, Where is your uncle, why aren't you waiting outside?

Elsie curled her lips and said nothing.

The nurse glanced at her phone: Hey, it's time for bed 16 to take medicine. You...you're waiting here alone, should it be okay?

Go and do your business, Elsie answered.

The nurse nodded and warned as she ran back: Don't run around. Just wait here until your family comes to pick you up!

Elsie waved goodbye obediently, and when her figure disappeared, she couldn't help but sigh.

Qingshan Hospital was built in the suburbs, surrounded by only large areas of farmland and woods. It was already night time, and the sparse street lights were shining with pale light, illuminating the surroundings with ghostly shadows.

around on the ground with randomly picked branches . While poking , she thought, what if she now Returning to the hospital, the kind-hearted nurses and sisters will take her in for another night.

...Forget it, I won’t go back. When I go back, I have to explain why my uncle didn’t come to pick her up.

Elsie sighed and poked the hole in the ground harder.

Boom—boom—boom—​

Although the sound is soft , it is not the sound that her little wooden stick can make, right? Elsie looked puzzled, and the next second the delicately painted cane landed on the spot she had just poked .

Elsie's eyes widened suddenly, and it took a long time before she raised her head tentatively.

The pale light from the street lamp fell, casting a small halo around his body. He stood against the light, making it difficult to see the expression on his face.

It's like the savior has arrived.

What are you doing standing there and not leaving yet? Marshall asked condescendingly and unhurriedly.

Chapter 3

Elsie was still a little dazed .

Marshall's patience ran out, and he turned around and left with his cane. Elsie finally came to her senses, jumped up and chased after her: Let's go , little uncle, wait for me!

Marshall listened to the commotion behind him, and the corners of his lips curved slightly.

He just took Elsie home.

Wow - I didn't expect that this house is so new now. The tiles in the fountain are actually white. I always thought they were yellow! Hey, this sculpture turns out to be a giraffe. When I first came here, there was only one body left. I thought it was a roe deer. Uncle, do you know what a roe deer is? It is a very stupid animal...

Elsie ran happily around the yard, then followed Marshall into the house, touching here and there, muttering something silly and having fun.

Jiang Ge silently walked to Marshall and asked, Do I need to call a doctor? She seems to be ill.

Marshall said expressionlessly: It's too troublesome to call a doctor, so I'd better send him back to a mental hospital.

Jiang Ge nodded in agreement.

The two of them were muttering to each other, while Elsie had already walked around the living room and ran to Marshall with bright eyes: Uncle, I'm hungry.

Oh. Marshall responded.

Elsie: ... Then what?

Jiang Ge smiled: The chef had already prepared the food before we got home. Why don't Elsie go to the kitchen and take a look?

Thank you, Uncle Jiang. Elsie's eyes lit up.

I'm actually not that... Old. Unfortunately, before Jiang Ge could finish his words, Elsie had already run away.

He looked at Marshall in silence, not even noticing that his glasses had slipped slightly.

You look quite old. Marshall was always particularly sincere at this time.

No matter what time it is, talking back to the boss is a taboo in the workplace. Considering the six-figure salary every month... Jiang Ge smiled and changed the subject: I don't think I told Elsie where the kitchen is.

She just walked around the first floor eight hundred times. If she still can't find the kitchen, you can send her back to the mental hospital tonight. Marshall said, sitting down on the sofa.

Jiang Ge pushed his glasses up, walked around to him and asked, Marshall, are you really going to take her in?

No? Marshall asked.

It's not that it's impossible. The Xie family is big and wealthy, so it's not a problem to support one more person. The problem is that her origins are unknown, and even the police haven't found out her identity. If you rashly take her in, you might get into trouble. Besides, she... Jiang Ge tapped his temple and implicitly didn't say the second half of the sentence.

Marshall looked indifferent, without a trace of emotion in his dark pupils: I am very interested in Fengyang Technology's intelligent robot project.

Jiang Ge was stunned for a moment, then laughed when he realized what was going on: Do you think she knows the chairman of Fengyang Technology? Let me remind you, Mr. Ji is only 55 years old this year, he shouldn't have a granddaughter this old, and his name is Ji Fengbo, not Ji Fumin...

Changed it, Marshall interrupted.

Jiang Ge paused: What?

Last month, John introduced a master to Ji Fengbo in order to win the robot project. The master said that his name was not good, and he had experienced many ups and downs over the years. In the end, he was persuaded to change his name to Ji Fumin, Marshall glanced at him. Because it involves many things, the procedures are complicated, so this matter is kept secret for the time being. Only John and a few members of the Ji family know about it. If John hadn't shown off to me , I wouldn't have known about it.

The little psychopath knew something that only John and a few members of the Ji family knew, and her last name happened to be Ji... Jiang Ge looked more serious: No wonder you helped her.

What else? Marshall said sarcastically, Am I the kind of person who picks up trash on the side of the road?

Jiang Ge: ...

What's that expression on your face? Marshall narrowed his eyes.

Jiang Ge changed the subject with an innocent look: ...What should we do next? Take her to see Mr. Ji?

First confirm her identity. Marshall glanced in the direction of the stairs casually. If she continues to talk nonsense, then throw her on the road.

Jiang Ge followed his gaze and smiled: Since Marshall already has an idea, I'll just execute it. It's getting late. Marshall should rest early, and I should go back.

Marshall waved his hand, signaling him to get out.

Jiang Ge rolled away without looking back.

The living room fell silent again. Marshall pinched his eyebrows and leaned lazily on the sofa: Still not coming out?

Elsie came out from behind the stairs carrying a plate of small cakes.

Your eavesdropping skills need to be improved. Marshall commented to her with half-opened eyes.

Elsie curled her lips and said, You spoke so loudly just to let me hear you.

So, it's time to tell the truth? Marshall asked.

Elsie nodded and took a deep breath. I traveled here from 22 years later. Ji Fumin is my real grandfather.

Marshall: ...

If you don't believe me, you can pull out two strands of his hair and do a paternity test with me, Elsie said seriously.

Marshall said expressionlessly: Are you kidding me? Mr. Ji is a bald man, how can I pull out his hair?

Bald... Elsie opened her eyes wide, He clearly said that I had thick hair before I was born, but I was always making trouble when I was a child, which made him angry and bald... So he lied to me?!

Marshall: Oh.

Well, if there's no hair to pull out, armpit hair will do, right? Leg hair will do, or you can find a chance to prick him and draw some blood? Elsie said, and when she saw him pick up the phone and start dialing, she immediately asked suspiciously, What are you doing?

Call Jiang Ge back and throw you out. Marshall didn't even raise his head.

Elsie rushed over to grab the phone, but misjudged her prediction and ended up falling into Marshall's lap, who held the phone above his head and looked at her with a cold expression.

The call was connected, and Jiang Ge's voice came from the phone: Marshall?

I really didn't lie, Elsie hugged his knees pitifully, Take me to see Chu Chen and Phyllis, and everything will be clear.

I don't know any Chu Chen and Phyllis at all. Marshall spoke slowly.

Ah...you haven't met yet? Elsie was surprised at first, but then she thought it was possible. After all, her parents didn't say when they met, but it must have been before she was born. Then, then you don't know each other now. You must have heard of Phyllis's name. She's a big star, very popular!

Never heard of it. Marshall only replied with four words.

Elsie was stunned for a second, then she heard Marshall say, Mr. Ji doesn't have a son who takes his mother's surname.

Impossible! My dad is the third child in the family, and he does have my grandmother's last name! Elsie denied it immediately.

Jiang Ge: Hey, Marshall, what's up?

Elsie frowned, I really didn't lie to you.

His tone was sincere and his look was pitiful, and he didn't seem to be lying.

Marshall stared at her for a moment and smiled cruelly: But Mr. Ji only has one son and one daughter, and he doesn't have a third child.

Elsie was struck by lightning.

Jiang Ge was still saying hello on the phone, but Marshall suddenly lost interest. He pushed her away and stood up. He slowly walked to the stairs with his cane. As he walked, he said: Since you are unwilling to tell the truth, then there is no need for us. The exchange has continued, and tomorrow morning, you will...

Behind the desk against the wall in the study room on the third floor, there is a secret compartment more than ten inches wide. In it are photos of you when you were a teenager studying, as well as two trophies from basketball games. Elsie suddenly said.

Marshall stopped and looked at her with an unclear expression.

Elsie rubbed her eyes and looked up at him. The secret compartment is sealed, which means you didn't plan to take it out after you put the things in. I'm sorry, uncle. I was ignorant when I was twelve years old and I opened it. But now, your secret compartment should be intact. You can go and have a look.

This kind of thing could be verified by just going upstairs and moving the table away, so there was no need for her to lie.

The phone was still on the line. Jiang Ge said, Hello, hello, Marshall, are you still there? I didn't hear what Elsie said just now...

Marshall hung up the phone.

Jiang Ge stopped the car on the side of the road halfway through the drive, and fell into self-doubt as he looked at the hung up call: Was he just a part of their play?

In the Xie family's old house, Elsie looked well-behaved: Although I don't know what happened to my parents and why my grandfather only has two children at this time, but uncle, I really didn't lie to you.

Marshall stared at her expressionlessly for a long time. Finally, he said nothing and walked upstairs.

The cane made a soft tap on the hardwood floor, and Elsie listened to the sound gradually fade away and disappear into the carpeted third-floor corridor.

She sighed, hugged her knees and sat on the ground in front of the sofa. It took her a while to remember that Marshall didn't seem to have arranged a place for her to live.

The next day was another sunny day. At 8:10, Marshall turned off the alarm clock, listened to the morning news, got up and took a shower, and then went to the restaurant on the first floor to eat as usual.

It’s just that there are many strangers at home today, so it’s a little different from usual.

As soon as Marshall arrived at the dining room, he saw the housekeeper and two servants crowded at the door of the kitchen, stretching their heads to look in. The chef who was supposed to prepare breakfast for him was standing outside the kitchen aggrievedly and saw him coming. He immediately nodded and said hello: Master.

The housekeeper and the servant turned back at the same time: Master.

What are you looking at? Marshall frowned.

The housekeeper hurriedly stepped forward: Master, did you bring someone back last night?

Marshall guessed who was in the kitchen.

What is she doing? he asked, listening to the pinging sound coming from the kitchen .

Butler: I'll make you breakfast.

Marshall: ?

It started an hour ago, the butler added.

Before he finished speaking, Elsie came out with a plate and greeted Marshall with a smile: Uncle, I made you a sandwich!

Marshall took a casual look and saw that the sandwiches were pretty good, with eggs, ham and tomatoes. It took an hour to make something like this, which was outrageous.

Come and have a taste. Elsie had already sat down at the dining table.

Marshall was not polite to her. After sitting down, he picked up half a piece and tasted it.

How is it? Elsie looked expectant.

Marshall: It's okay.

Then I'll do it for you every day from now on. Elsie held her face up.

Marshall paused and looked at her with a half-smile: You have been busy for so long on purpose just to say this?

Uncle, you are such a good person. You are willing to take me in after a sudden change. Don't worry. When I get to know my grandfather, I will definitely persuade him to sign a contract with you and we will make money together. Elsie pretended not to understand what he was saying . .

You do know what I want. Marshall glanced at her and continued eating his sandwich.

Although I don't know why grandpa only has two children, I thought about it carefully. If you are here, grandpa is also there, and even the secret compartment on the third floor is there, then this cannot be some kind of parallel world. Just find grandpa and ask. , you will know what happened to my parents. Elsie poured him a glass of soy milk diligently, So, little uncle, are you willing to help me?

Not willing, Marshall replied.

Elsie choked . If you don't want me to, how can I prove my identity? If I don't prove my identity, how can I match you with Grandpa?

Compared to not being able to make a match, I'm more afraid that Mr. Ji will think I'm a psychopath and turn me away forever. So before you provide more powerful evidence to prove that what you said is true, I won't take you to see Mr. Ji, nor will I help you with anything. Marshall ate both sandwiches and took a tissue to wipe his hands slowly. I'm already very kind of me to let you stay.

I knew you would say that, Elsie said, with a look that read his mind. I've already figured out how to prove it.

Marshall looked at her calmly, waiting for her to express her opinion.

My mom said that my dad fell in love with her at first sight during a hailstorm in April. I just asked the housekeeper. The weather forecast on the mobile phone only covers seven days at most, and now it is March 19th. There is no possibility for me to cheat. If there is hail in April, can it prove that I did not lie? Elsie asked with her arms folded.

Marshall reminded: The last time there was hail in Zhoucheng was about ten years ago.

I know. Elsie raised her chin.

She was so sure that Marshall had nothing to say. After thinking for a moment, he said, Okay, at worst I'll be cheated into eating and drinking for a month.

What he meant was that he agreed to take her in.

Elsie was so moved that her eyes turned red: I knew you were a good person!

Marshall didn't comment on her assessment of being a good person. Seeing that she was still groaning, he asked , Where's your sandwich?

I only made two pieces and gave them to you, Elsie rubbed her eyes. It's all right. I'll just make do with whatever I have.

Marshall raised the corners of his eyes slightly , wanting to say that the Xie family wouldn't be in need of a sandwich, but before he could finish his words, Elsie brought out a plate of large pork elbows from the kitchen.

He: ...is that how you get by?

It's too greasy to eat just meat. I asked the chef to bake some bread for me and make a simple meat bun later, Elsie said, looking at him, Uncle, you should go to work.

Marshall stared at her for a long time and said coldly: You'd better not lie, otherwise...

Elsie put down her chopsticks obediently and instantly became pitiful: Uncle, I really didn't lie to you.

Marshall glanced at her and left with his cane.

Elsie obediently watched him leave. When his back completely disappeared, she wiped her face and turned to ask the chef: Is my cake ready?

Chef: ... This girl must be learning how to change her face.

Chapter 4

The cake is a semi -finished product, just bake it in an electric pan. Elsie held the simple version of the Roujiamo and almost shed tears after taking one bite . The chef originally complained about a stranger instructing him to cook, but when he saw her eating so deliciously, he immediately felt like his worth was recognized.

Want soy milk? There's another bowl in the kitchen. He asked proactively.

Elsie's cheeks were puffy, and she held half a meat bun and asked, Is it okay?

What's wrong with that? The chef immediately went to serve her soy milk.

Thank you, Mr. Chef. Elsie nodded in thanks, and then seeing the butler and servants still standing at the kitchen door, she took the initiative to greet them, Uncle Butler, come and have something to eat too.

Elsie, just eat by yourself, the butler responded quickly, motioning for others to do what they were supposed to do.

Seeing that they were unwilling, Elsie did not force them. After she slowly finished eating two cakes, she saw that the butler was still observing her, so she smiled and said, If you have anything to ask, ask now.

You're welcome, Elsie, the butler said politely, but he still sat down opposite her. Actually, there's nothing much to ask. I'm just a little curious. Did you call the young master...uncle just now?

He was confused about their conversation just now. The only thing he remembered was that Elsie called Marshall uncle. He originally thought that his young master suddenly had the idea to find a girlfriend, but now it seems that is not the case.

Yes, he is my uncle, Elsie admitted.

The housekeeper was even more puzzled: With all due respect, I have been working in the Xie family for decades, and it seems... I have never seen you.

Elsie knew what he wanted to ask, but she was not a fool. She could not tell anyone about her time travel, so she thought about it and said, You can understand it as...a distant relative.

I know him five generations ago, how far away are you? the steward asked.

Elsie blinked: Sixth generation?

The housekeeper was speechless: Isn't that a stranger?

You can't say that. My uncle is willing to take me in and let me live in his home, which means that in his heart, I am more than just a stranger. Elsie said seriously.

The housekeeper had never seen such a shameless person: Didn't you negotiate terms with the young master? Although I didn't understand what you talked about, if you can't do it, you can only live here for a month, right?

I'm sure I can do it, Elsie stood up and stretched. So please be as warm to me as spring this month, Uncle Butler. I will definitely repay you when I reunite with my parents in the future.

After saying that, she turned and walked upstairs.

The housekeeper quickly followed: Where are you going?

Go back to your room and go to bed, Elsie replied.

Butler: ... Has the young master arranged a room for you?

No, I found one myself.

Butler: ... I'll sort it out for myself.

The housekeeper followed her all the way, and after confirming that she was staying in an ordinary guest room on the second floor, he went downstairs with confidence.

Elsie settled in just like that.

Since Marshall took over, no one else has stayed in the old house except the housekeeper and a few servants who watched him grow up. Marshall had already thought that once Elsie disrupted his normal life, he would rush her to the apartment on the Third Ring Road.

It turned out that she was quite sensible. Except for having breakfast with him every morning, the rest of the time was as if she didn't exist. Marshall lived with her under the same roof for four days in a row without feeling any discomfort.

Until the early morning of the fifth day.

Little uncle, have some porridge. Elsie enthusiastically served him a bowl of porridge.

Marshall glanced at the lamb pajamas she was wearing, and then at the lamb pajamas she was wearing, and finally couldn't bear it any longer: How long has it been since you changed clothes?

Huh? Elsie looked down at her pajamas, which were still stained with grease from the last time she ate steak. I wash them every day. After washing and drying, I won't delay wearing them the next day. Uncle, you can Don’t worry, I’m very hygienic.

Marshall twitched the corners of his lips, lowered his eyes and began to drink porridge.

When Elsie saw this, she immediately peeled a tea egg and handed it to him. Marshall glanced at her and she smiled flatteringly.

After the meal, Marshall got up and walked out. He stopped when he reached the door and turned to the housekeeper: Buy her some changes of clothes, put the suit she was wearing into a garbage bag and throw it into the moat. Don't let me see it again. it."

The housekeeper smiled, but before he could speak, Elsie stood up happily: Thank you, uncle!

Don't throw away the receipt. If she is proven to be lying in a month, sue her to pay back the money. Marshall added another sentence and left slowly.

His words were too cold-blooded, and the housekeeper coughed lightly, and just as he was about to help him out, Elsie came over with a moved expression: My uncle is really a good person with a hard mouth but a soft heart.

He might...he's not...forget it. The butler gave up explaining.

Elsie returned to the dining table and ate a few more bites, then hurriedly pushed the butler out.

Unknowingly, she had traveled here for less than half a month. During this half-month, except for the first three days of sleeping on the street, she almost always stayed in a place with a roof. She never saw a few people. Now she finally has the opportunity. When she went out for some fun, she wished she could go to a few more places and take a good look at the world twenty-two years ago.

This used to be a village in the city? It's so shabby, who would have thought that it would be the most luxurious entertainment and commercial street in Zhoucheng in the future!

Wow, the 3D technology of this electronic screen ... is really clumsy!

This shop! I've eaten at this shop before. It said it was an old shop that had been open for more than 30 years. I thought it was bragging at the time, but I didn't expect it to be true!

She was lying on the car window talking to herself, and she was very lively alone. Although the housekeeper couldn't understand what she was talking about, he still found it interesting and occasionally chimed in a few words.

At Elsie's request, the extended Mercedes-Benz circled the city center and finally stopped in front of a shopping mall called Chengran Department Store.

This is the best shopping mall in Zhoucheng. It has a wide variety of products. Elsie can pick out whatever she needs. I'll only be responsible for swiping the card. The butler showed Marshall's secondary card.

Elsie's eyes lit up: No limit on the amount?

The housekeeper pretended to be embarrassed: If you want to buy the whole mall, the credit limit may not be enough.

Elsie could tell he was joking and chuckled twice: Don't worry, I'm not that ignorant.

As if to prove her understanding, or perhaps because she was really not interested in these luxury goods, Elsie walked from the first floor to the seventh floor, and then from the seventh floor back to the first floor , without buying a single piece of clothing. Instead, she bought a plastic duck in a trendy toy store . Just as she was about to continue shopping from the first floor, the housekeeper, who was over fifty years old, couldn't stand it anymore.

How about...you go shopping by yourself? He decided to surrender to the young people's enthusiasm for shopping.

Elsie nodded, took the secondary card and bought the butler a cup of taro bubble tea: Please wait for me in the lounge.

The housekeeper agreed and went to the rest area with the milk tea. After finding a seat and sitting down, he took a look at the unopened milk tea. He was not interested in such children's things, and he took it just out of politeness, but he was really thirsty after walking for so long, so he opened the bottle and took a sip... It tasted good!

Elsie walked around twice more by herself, and finally went into a luxury brand store. She walked past the bags and went straight to the clothing area, picked up a few pieces and asked the SA to pack them for her.

SA looked at the oil spots on her lamb pajamas, hesitated for a moment, then picked up the clothes and went to the counter.

Isn't that dress she's wearing a fake? the colleague asked in a low voice.

SA also lowered his head: Nonsense, when did ADS release a pajamas series?

Then why did you bring her clothes?

What if it's a private inspection by the supervisor? SA glanced at Elsie again and saw that she was concentrating on eating the small cakes displayed in the store. The strange looks from other customers did not seem to exist to her, You call the manager? Come, if anything happens, you can report it in time."

Okay. My colleague agreed quickly.

Elsie didn't know what they were muttering about. After eating and drinking, she saw that everything was almost wrapped, so she walked slowly to the counter and took out the secondary card.

Seeing how calm she was, SA took the secondary card and suspected that he was being too careless. When he was about to swipe the card, a clear voice suddenly came from behind him: Wait a minute.

Elsie and SA turned around at the same time and saw a woman wearing a skirt and a high ponytail walking over.

Manager. SA greeted immediately.

The woman nodded, took the secondary card from the SA, and after checking it carefully, she smiled at Elsie and said, This secondary card is a special set of cards launched by Black Chess Bank. As far as I know, only President Xie has one in the whole Zhoucheng. His card is also specially stamped with gold, exactly the same as yours. Where did you get this card?

I stole it, answered Elsie.

woman:......

Others in the store: ...

After all this talk, isn't this the main idea? Since you are so suspicious, you might as well call the police. Elsie spread her hands.

The woman's smile almost failed to hold: That's not what I meant, I'm just a little curious...

Call the police and let the police shoot me, the thief of the secondary card. Elsie took a candy from the counter and ate it.

Although it is not the weekend, there are many customers in the store. At this moment,