The Return Of the Invincible Heiress
Chapter 195

Chapter 195: Chapter 195

Zayn walked very quickly and didn’t look back. He didn’t hear Elsie’s scream. He had only taken a few steps out of the airport when he saw Alaric.

Alaric jumped out of the car and opened the door for him carefully. "Zayn, you are finally back! Look at you—so dark and thin. It’s going to break Mom’s heart when she sees you like this."

Zayn smiled and sat in the front passenger seat. "Acting is tough, but it’s much easier than when I was on a mission in the army. It’s also quite interesting—I get to experience different kinds of lives."

"I also think that filming is quite interesting." Alaric started the car and swished his head sideways, trying to look striking. "When I was in middle school, some teachers suggested that I apply to an art school. Talent scouts even wanted me to participate in a talent show or enter the entertainment industry. Unfortunately, I loved playing basketball too much, so I had to reject them."

Zayn nodded. "Yeah, I believe you."

"Hehe." Alaric smiled proudly. "Zayn, are you still going to act in the future? If you are, I’ll definitely support you."

"Yes," Zayn said with certainty. "The crew seems to be very satisfied with my performance and has recommended me to other production teams. Although the roles I take on are similar—either a soldier, a police officer, a warrior, or a fighter—as long as I can fight well and look good on camera, it works for them. Plus, the salary is pretty good. I like it."

Alaric asked curiously, "How much are the other production teams paying you?"

Zayn replied, "There’s a military television drama with over thirty episodes. The salary after tax is 100 thousand dollars. I don’t have many scenes, and the shooting and fight sequences aren’t as difficult as those in movies.

"There’s also another movie where I’m the stunt double for the lead actor. I’ll be getting 160 thousand dollars after tax."

Alaric was speechless. "That’s quite high, but isn’t it dangerous to be a stunt double? You need to be careful."

Zayn nodded. "I’ll be careful. Before filming starts, I always check all the gear and equipment."

When Zayn was in the army, he was prepared to sacrifice himself at any moment. He had also seen many comrades perish right in front of him, so he knew how precious life was. He would never joke about his own safety or that of others.

For the movie he was currently working on, he had made numerous suggestions regarding military tactics, hand-to-hand combat, gunfights, props, and equipment. The military consultants and martial arts instructors agreed with his input. The producer was so impressed that he even doubled Zayn’s salary.

When Zayn returned home, the first thing he did was announce the good news.

"Dad, Mom, brothers, and sisters—I received a total of 200 thousand dollars for my part in the movie."

Everyone looked at each other in amazement and applauded.

Carter’s Restaurant made a five-figure profit daily, and the family already considered that impressive. Yet, Zayn had earned 200 thousand dollars in less than two months from acting—more than what the restaurant made in the same period. No wonder so many young people tried their best to break into the entertainment industry.

Zayn took out a bank card from his pocket and placed it on the table. "I’ve been in the military for five years and haven’t done anything for the family. This 200 thousand dollars is for Christmas. Use it however you want."

Everyone shook their heads, insisting that it was his hard-earned money and they couldn’t take it.

Zayn smiled. "We’re in so much debt after buying a house. Use this money to pay it off. Besides, I have other films lined up, and the pay isn’t low. You don’t have to worry about me."

Claire thought for a moment, then picked up the card. "Alright, I’ll keep this money for now and repay the debt in installments. Let me know when you need money. Our family’s financial situation is quite good now."

"Keep all the money you earn for the next two years," Arthur interjected. "Zayn, if you want to stay in the entertainment industry long-term, the expenses aren’t low."

"Firstly, you’ll need your own manager and assistant. You also need to pay attention to your image—dress well, take care of your skin and health, hire a stylist, and so on. You might also have to socialize and return favors. All of these cost money."

Zayn nodded. "You’re right. But I’m still a newbie, so there’s no need to think too far ahead just yet. When I land bigger roles and establish myself in the industry, I’ll consider it seriously."

Wesley smiled. "Alright, it’s getting late. Let’s eat before the food gets cold."

Alaric glanced around. "Is Avery not back yet?"

It was Sunday, and the restaurant was closed, so logically, Avery should have been home.

Arthur replied, "Avery has been taking food out for the past few nights. She said it was for an important friend. She won’t be eating at home tonight."

Alaric had been busy with tennis training and preparing for final exams, often sleeping at the club or school. Because of this, he hadn’t noticed Avery’s recent routine. Hearing this, he threw a suspicious glance.

"What friend is she bringing food to? Is it a guy or a girl? Is that person hospitalized?"

Arthur shrugged. "It must be a guy. Avery always takes enough food for three people. It’s more than I can eat. And that person definitely isn’t a patient—no patient eats such rich food in such large portions."

Alaric’s handsome face tensed up. He snorted sourly, "Could that man be her suitor?

"Avery just got back! We haven’t even had time to catch up properly, and now she’s being taken by some guy? If he isn’t better than me in every way, I won’t approve of their relationship."

Arthur, on the other hand, was unconcerned. "Absolutely not. Avery is outstanding, and her standards are high. Besides, she’s with us every day. Would she really fancy another man after comparing him to us?"

Claire remained indifferent. "Avery said she wants to focus on scientific research. She’s still young—I doubt she’s thinking about a relationship. I think the person she’s helping is a senior or a professor at her lab, someone working late on experiments or dealing with health issues."

Alaric scoffed. "You guys don’t understand men.

"That guy must be pretending to be busy or weak just to get close to Avery."

Arthur raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And how old are you to claim you understand a man’s mind?"

Alaric snorted. "Why wouldn’t I? Plenty of girls flock to me—I know exactly what they’re thinking. It’s the same for men.

"Just wait. I’ll find that guy and prove I’m right."

The next afternoon, after his exam, Alaric rushed to the restaurant and saw Avery getting into a car with a huge food container. He decided to follow her.

As he trailed behind, something felt off.

Isn’t this the way to the old house? What is Avery going there for?

Alaric kept a safe distance, afraid that Avery might notice him. He followed her all the way to Viento Court, parked at the entrance, and walked in.

When he reached the old house, he saw that the lights were on.

Avery really came here?

For a moment, he hesitated.

Why would she bring a full day’s worth of food to the old house?

Could she have been tricked by some loser and was now keeping him hidden there?

Or... like in those comics, did Avery find an injured, mysterious man and secretly take him in?

No, no. That’s way too dangerous!

Alaric shook his head vigorously, trying to dismiss the thought. Then, determined, he ran upstairs at full speed.

"I have to catch that guy and expose his true colors!"

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