Chapter 73
Suddenly, Scarlett understood why Xavier had brought her here and why he was treating her so differently. He had recognized her from the start. He was repaying
her.
The realization eased the unease in Scarlett’s heart, replacing it with a strange warmth. She had treated many people, but it seemed only he was truly grateful, genuinely repaying her kindness.
As for the others… not only were they ungrateful, but they also sought to exploit, oppress, and humiliate her.
Scarlett nodded. “Yes, I remember. He was badly injured. I stopped the bleeding and stabilized his critical wounds before I went to call for help.
“But just as I turned around, a helicopter appeared and took him away.”
Edmund offered a warm, grateful smile. “You’re not just Mr. Stroud’s savior. You’re the savior of the entire Stroud family. If it hadn’t been for you back then, we might’ve lost him.
“The year he got injured during the off–road race was when the Stroud family was finally on the rise, thanks to him. That’s when we to wipe out the Stroud bloodline.
“Luckily, Mr. Stroud pulled through. Not only did he survive, but he also became even more determined.
“In just a few short years, he rebuilt the Stroud family’s business empire and even expanded into several countries. Everyone in the family se
legend.
a target. They wanted
a living bu
him as a
“But I know that deep down, Mr. Stroud has never let go. He’s been holding his breath all these years, waiting for the right moment to take his revenge.
“As long as he uncovers any family tied to that bloody incident years ago, even if they’re nobles in the capital, he can bring them down overnight. Because of this, Mr. Stroud earned the reputation of a god of death and a demon.
“Although everyone fears him, deep down, they all secretly wish for his downfall. Mr. Stroud’s sudden departure from Jondalia this time was because he found new clues related to the old case.
“He couldn’t bear to let them slip away, but who would’ve thought he’d fall into another trap? Mr. Stroud’s life has been nothing but pain and exhaustion…”
Edmund’s eyes glistened with tears as he looked at Scarlett. “Ms. Quinn, Mr. Stroud is truly grateful to you. Please… You must prioritize his health. No matter the cost, I’m willing to cover all medical expenses. I only ask that you help him recover…”
Scarlett quickly responded, “Mr. Barrett, please rest assured. I’ll do everything I can to heal Mr. Stroud. And thank you, Mr. Barrett, for trusting me enough to share all of this with me.”
Such a deep–seated blood feud was a scar every member of the Stroud family wished would stay buried.
Edmund had lost his parents, his wife, and his children because of it. The weight he carried was no lighter than anyone else’s in the family.
And yet, he stood tall, bearing half the burden of the entire Stroud family. For eight long years, he had tirelessly searched for Xavier, and after finding him, he cared for him with unwavering devotion.
To Scarlett, he was nothing short of a living legend. A deep respect for him rose within her, along with a profound sense of awe.
Edmund continued, “The Stroud family today has several hundred people, all descendants from minor branches back then. Many weren’t even recorded in the family genealogy.
“To support the Stroud family, I personally verified each individual’s identity and added them to the family tree.
“Due to their distant kinship, their generational ranking ended up being quite low. Even the family head I selected, who is the most respected elder among the Strouds, is still a generation below Mr. Stroud.
“Ever since Mr. Stroud returned and turned the tide, leading the family back to prosperity, he has become the pillar of our entire lineage. To every member of the Stroud family, Mr. Stroud is nothing short of a deity.”
Edmund shared even more details about the Stroud family.
Scarlett listened quietly; her heart was heavy with a mix of emotions.
Those in high positions often have their status and power displayed for all to see, even revered like gods. But the darkness and suffering they endure behind the scenes always remain hidden.