Chapter 14: Miss Wright, In Need of Money?

Grant was ruthless and struck hard.

In just two days, all of the Lopez family's assets were frozen.

Two properties, plus the stocks under Willow's father's name.

Grant was certain that Willow wouldn't last long!

When the court came to seal their property, Aunt Rhea was so upset she was hospitalized for an IV. When she woke up, still resentful, she went to make a scene at Grant's company.

But Grant was no longer the same person. Aunt Rhea caused a commotion for half a day without seeing him and nearly ended up in jail herself.

With a mix of cajoling and white lies, Willow brought Aunt Rhea back to the hospital.

Lying in the hospital bed, Aunt Rhea held Willow's hand, her brow furrowed with worry. "It doesn't matter if we're homeless, but your father's situation requires a large sum of money to handle. Although Attorney Kane is somewhat familiar to us, we still need to pay him properly!"

Willow softly reassured her: "I'll figure out the money situation."

Aunt Rhea felt for her and in the afternoon gave Willow a bankbook containing her personal savings of around one million.

Willow knew this was Aunt Rhea's retirement money.

Holding the bankbook, she choked up slightly. "I'll use it for now, and later..."

But Aunt Rhea interrupted her. "I still have a small apartment in the far suburbs. It's a bit old but we can make do. Willow... you must do everything you can to fight your father's case."

Willow nodded.

After Aunt Rhea was discharged, Willow moved her into a temporarily rented apartment.

The apartment was in an old neighborhood, a small two-bedroom of 650 square feet, with extremely basic furnishings that couldn't compare to their previous upscale residence.

Aunt Rhea looked around and settled in.

Willow felt guilty and asked Bianca to help her find two part-time jobs.

Bianca didn't approve. "You already have a full-time job. Taking on two more part-time positions—are you trying to kill yourself?"

Willow forced a smile. "I'll be fine."

Bianca guessed that Willow needed money for multiple purposes, so she reluctantly found her work and also dug out her own savings to lend to Willow.

Willow remembered this kindness.

Every day after finishing her regular job, she would go to her part-time job at a restaurant. Though tiring, she could earn $50 per hour.

With her good looks and piano skills, the manager was happy to employ her.

Hunter's next encounter with Willow happened at this restaurant.

Hunter wasn't dining alone; he was with a charming woman. They seemed like work partners, but with a hint of intimacy.

Willow wasn't surprised. A man as exceptional as Hunter would never lack female company.

When they bumped into each other near the restrooms, she nodded slightly. "Attorney Hawke."

Hunter was in the smoking area. Seeing Willow, he frowned.

She looked thinner than when they last met.

Her chin had become pointier. Though still beautiful, she looked as if she might break with the slightest touch.

Hunter knew that Willow's training center was very high-end and didn't allow teachers to take outside jobs.

He slowly exhaled a smoke ring.

The smoke spread between them before he tapped off some ash. "Miss Wright, in need of money?"

Willow was startled.

She hadn't expected Hunter would still be willing to speak with her. After a pause, she softly agreed. "Yes, quite badly."

Hunter immediately guessed it was Grant's doing.

His gaze lightly swept over Willow's body.

As discerning as Hunter was, he had to admit that if Willow wanted to make quick money, it would be very easy for her.

Not only was she beautiful, but her temperament was also gentle. When kissing and being intimate, she was like a young animal.

No man would dislike that!

Yet her willingness to work hard at a part-time job surprised Hunter.

However, being a man who respected women, Attorney Hawke just gave a slight nod of his chin without saying more.

Willow understood he was letting her pass and hurried into the restroom.

When she came out, Hunter was gone, and the beautiful woman had disappeared as well.

Willow thought that Attorney Hawke would probably have an indulgent evening.