The Queen's Back

Chapter 360

Maxwell nodded slightly as if to acknowledge Joseph's earlier comment. Due to Bud's influence, Maxwell had a poor first impression of Joseph.

Bud was someone who, after a long time, finally had feelings for someone and wanted to reconcile with Ava, but now that opportunity was gone. Maxwell could only blame Bud for making mistakes. However, he felt quite displeased when looking at Joseph. Joseph noticed that Maxwell seemed aloof and cold, and given the rumors circulating outside, it seemed true that Maxwell was unapproachable. So, he quietly turned his attention to Ava's silhouette.

Soon, everyone arrived at the small square, where Albert and Haley were setting up the fireworks. Albert instructed everyone to disperse before being the first to ignite the fireworks.

All this while, the fireworks in the sky had not stopped at all. The ones Albert bought were brighter and more varied when they ascended, and supposedly, they were less harmful to the environment.

With a loud "bang," colorful fireworks exploded in the sky, illuminating the dark night, accompanied by the sounds of popping explosions.

Mona and Ava stood at the back and looked at the fireworks in the sky. All this while, Mona had been smiling,

Suddenly, a pair of large hands gripped her waist, and through her clothing, Mona could feel the warmth of his hands. Instinctively, she turned her head and saw Maxwell standing behind her, his chin resting on her head.

The fireworks emitted a pink glow, casting a soft light on Mona's tanned cheeks, making her features appear even more defined.

With an intense gaze, Maxwell focused on Mona's face, clearly seeing his reflection in her half-closed eyes. He turned his head and delicately pressed a kiss on Mona's cheek.

A soft sensation brushed against her face, prompting Mona to timidly grip Maxwell's hand resting on her waist. She felt a bit bashful. She noticed that the others were all engrossed in the fireworks and Joseph had taken Ava to another place. Noticing that Joseph had quietly taken Ava's hand and that Ava had rested her head on his shoulder, Mona's shyness dissipated, and she allowed Maxwell to wrap his arms around her.

The fireworks lasted quite a while; as they watched, Albert and Haley ran around nearby. Mona stole a glance at them, thinking her brother had yet to mature.

Barbara watched Mona's beaming face with a sense of discomfort. 'Why does Mona get to enjoy happiness from childhood to adulthood?' she thought. Barbara felt resentful and unsatisfied. She was alone, while Mona had her husband to accompany her. Jealousy distorted her features.

and quickly ran toward the open space. Almost immediately, the fireworks crackled and burst in the air, and Mona's smile shone with extraordinary brilliance. Maxwell

in his arms and gently brushed her hair away

was

Albert's scream

peace

Maxwell felt.

17 Chapter

Maxwell anxiously with her as they rushed in that direction, her heart

Mona asked as she ran. She was a

Christmas.

nearer, Mona noticed Albert climbing back up, will Haley still on the

moment, Mona's thoughts

feet, glaring at Albert with hostility and wiping

hoped it was

Albert yelled out, not only Mona and Maxwell, but Ava, Elara, and Barbara also

of questions. Albert could not stand the feeling of being interrogated. In a daze, Albert realized that this might be how Mona felt when she

powerful hand, and the heat emanating from it made Haley acutely

are you doing? Let go of me!"

was exceptionally strong today. Haley tried her best to break free, but she did not feel like his grip was loosening

unexpected kiss between the two of them just now, Haley felt her heart burning and felt

The house was

did you bring me back in such a hurry? What if Mona is in danger later?" Haley asked angrily. After saying that, she

her wrist firmly. As Haley fought