"If it's a work-related injury, the company has a dedicated department to handle it."He had no reason to be concerned.Liam's response was seamless, and his expression remained as composed as if he were discussing the weather.If Suzy hadn't personally witnessed his tattoo and known the door lock code to his home, she might have doubted whether he truly cared for Sophia."But aren't you... her friend?""So, do you plan to visit her with me?"Suzy shook her head vigorously, like a tambourine. "I've been quite busy lately.""Is it because you're busy with that project led by that guy Jeffrey?" Liam paused while holding a glass of milk and looked at her."Not entirely, I'm also working on the SNS project with Mr. Lincoln."She didn't feel guilty, despite Liam's apparent scrutiny."Well, do your best."He didn't press the matter further, and after they finished breakfast, they both went to work....In the hospital, Sophia, who had just undergone acute appendicitis surgery, was slowly reg
Her voice trembled with a desperate plea that was impossible to resist.Clive had known Sophia for many years, and she always maintained a poised and elegant demeanor. This was the first time she had humbly begged someone.He sighed and reluctantly agreed, "Okay."Then, he left the hospital room.In a corner of the hospital corridor, Clive lit a cigarette, took a puff, and called Liam.After a few rings, Liam's deep and slightly grainy voice came through."What's up?""Yeah, things are pretty serious here with Sophia, and I can't handle it alone. If you're available, could you lend me a hand?""I need to get home early."Clive knew he would say that, and he irritably took another drag of his cigarette. “I hate to bring this up, but don’t you think you’re taking it too far when it comes to Sophia? She ended up with acute appendicitis due to late-night work, and considering our long-standing friendship, as the head of the Park Group, shouldn't you come and demonstrate your support for s
While Suzy didn't look down on people of lesser means, she couldn't comprehend her mother's perspective. She felt that if she married a dishonest man, regardless of his wealth or poverty, he would still cheat. If she ended up with someone both poor and unfaithful, it would only make her angrier.Moreover, with Melissa’s current attitude, Suzy wouldn’t want to introduce whoever she was dating, fearing Melissa might confront him as soon as he walked through the door."So, I need to see for myself. Your relationship must pass my scrutiny before I acknowledge it!""I understand. I'll take him there."Suzy's tone was filled with resignation.The pressure at work was already substantial, and her mother added another burden to her shoulders. Finding a fake boyfriend was even more challenging than staying up late to write a few more project proposals!Setting aside her phone, Suzy leaned against the wall and let out a long sigh.She didn't have much time to contemplate these matters because t
Once Clive left, Sophia, despite her weakness, forced a graceful smile and said, "I'm sorry, Liam. It seems like I’ll have to delay working on those contracts I have in hand. But don't worry, I'll get back to work soon. Clive promised to bring my laptop to the hospital!"Liam appreciated her dedication to work, but as the CEO, he had to discourage such reckless behavior."You need to focus on recovering. Legal affairs are not solely your responsibility. I'll have Alec and Suzy handle the contracts for now.""No!"When Sophia heard Suzy's name, she suddenly raised her voice, realizing it sounded wrong after she spoke. "I'm sorry... I don't like others meddling with my work. It's nothing personal. Besides, I have spare time in the hospital, and working might make things more interesting for me here.""Your health is the top priority.""I really don't mind! By the way, Liam, due to the sudden surgery, I won't be able to fly to see Mrs. Park this week. She just called me and learned about
It was 0825 again.How deeply did Liam love Sophia?She couldn't imagine that someone as serious, old-fashioned, and unsociable as Liam would be willing to go to such an extent for love.Setting a password, getting a tattoo, writing love letters.Any of these alone wouldn't seem like something Liam would do, but he did them all for Sophia.Suzy didn't read the letter; she simply placed it back where it belonged, along with the books, and left the study room in slow steps.She felt she had crossed a line; this was Liam's business, and she shouldn't read, think, or develop any emotions about it.As a hired substitute, she didn't have that privilege.…Liam left the hospital when Clive returned. He got into his car and didn't start the engine. Instead, he called his mother, Grace Park."Liam, are you done with your work?" Due to the time difference, it was already late on Grace’s side."Yes. Liam leaned back in his seat and rubbed his temples. "I heard from Sophia that you're coming back
Suzy looked at the man in front of her and almost thought she was dreaming.Shouldn't Liam be staying up all night to take care of Sophia because of the surgery?"She has another friend with her, so I'm not needed," Liam replied casually and took off his suit jacket to put it away.Suzy blinked. "Is it a guy?"Liam nodded. “Yes, he's better suited to take care of Miss Burns."With this explanation, Suzy could piece things together! She used to ponder the dynamics and misunderstandings between Liam and Sophia, which kept them deeply in love but apart. Now, it was evident that there was someone else in the picture.It made sense; Liam's reserved and quiet nature probably didn't compete with the charm of the rival, which was why Sophia was torn between the two men.No wonder he always wanted to take her to annoy Sophia."Have you eaten?" Liam's first concern was always whether she was hungry."No, I'm on a diet," Suzy replied, genuinely having little appetite."You can’t. You should eat
Fortunately, John brought dinner over right on time.Liam allowed Suzy to rest after having sex with her once. However, she felt thoroughly drained of energy. She needed his help even to have a meal in the dining room.Before going to bed, Liam leaned against the headboard and read a book. Looking at his profound profile, Suzy had considered asking about Sophia several times, but in the end, she remained silent.She glanced at her phone, and the day after tomorrow would be August 25th. On this day, Liam shouldn't return to Easter Bay, which happened to coincide with the three-day deadline her mother had given her.The next day, as soon as Suzy arrived at the office, she immediately started a hectic day.Alec still had several major projects in hand, and he couldn't focus solely on SNS. So, he entrusted most of what he could to Suzy.Around noon, she finally lifted her head from a pile of documents and called Wendy."Tomorrow, at the latest tomorrow... I need a guy to accompany me to v
"Alright.”She wasn’t worried about having no place to return tomorrow night.After giving his instructions, Liam went to take a shower. Suzy lay on the bed, taking a deep breath.Should she... maybe look for a place in advance? That way, if she got kicked out, she wouldn't end up on the streets....That night, Suzy tossed and turned, only falling asleep as dawn approached.When she woke up, there was no one beside her, only the breakfast prepared in the dining room and the familiar note.She sat down to eat while contacting Wendy."My friend is currently not in the country, what should I do?""...Can I hire someone with money?"It seemed like the only option now!"What time are you going to the hospital to see Mrs. Chase?"Suzy thought for a moment. "After work, maybe around 5 o'clock.""Then wait for my message. I'll try to find someone who can pass off as your husband. If that doesn't work... you can talk to Mrs. Chase and see if she can wait for a couple more days. My friend will
This statement could easily be misunderstood.Noticing the sudden defensiveness in Suzy's eyes, Liam softened his tone, abandoning his aggressive stance and returning to his usual gentlemanly warmth."It's just a dinner.""And then you'll let me see B7?""Yes."Suzy had no other options.She crossed the street to Jeffrey's car and tapped on the window.Before she could speak, Jeffrey anxiously said, "Suzy, I can't reach B7 anymore!""Liam took him.""...Then I'll go confront Liam!"Suzy quickly stopped him. "He's been acting strangely today. Don't provoke him! Confronting Liam head-on isn't wise. You should go home. I'll handle him.""You want me to leave you alone with Liam? He just—""Jeff, I'm so close to the truth! I can't afford any setbacks.""But if Liam finds out why you're meeting B7, he'll definitely intercept the evidence! Do you really think he'll choose you over his parents?"Of course not.Even Suzy understood that Liam would likely protect his parents.As their son, it w
Suzy remembered the last time she heard him say those words was when Melissa insisted she bring a boyfriend to the hospital.His tone then was just like now—gentle, heartfelt, as if he wanted to drown her in his affection…Unfortunately, the first time, she didn't trust his love.And this second time… she couldn't believe he would turn against his own family."Liam, you won't want to know the truth.""I do." Liam gently cradled her face, his eyes firm and unwavering. "Suzy, tell me."He didn't want Suzy to push him away whenever something happened. He didn't want to be left to investigate everything on his own. He wanted to be her support, to hear her out, whether it was bitterness, grievances, or anger, and then face it together.Countless possibilities flashed through Suzy's mind, and finally, as if waking from a dream, she pushed Liam forcefully."The truth is, I hate you, and I hate everyone in your family. I want you to stay away from me! I've fallen in love with Jeffrey and—"Her
Suzy couldn’t bring herself to continue. After tasting the blood, she stopped biting and merely struggled, unable to bear hurting him again.It wasn't until Jeffrey came over and punched Liam on the shoulder that he finally stepped back from Suzy. Liam staggered a few steps, just barely managing to regain his balance as Jeffrey, consumed by anger, readied himself to strike again.Seeing this, Suzy quickly intervened to stop Jeffrey."Jeff, don't! Don't fight!"He halted his fist just in time, looking at Suzy.Her lips were visibly red and slightly bloody, showing how intense Liam's kiss had been.It was clear this was a deliberate display."Suzy, he bullied you!""No, he didn't! Jeff, go back to the car. I'll come to you in a moment!"Suzy couldn't let them actually start fighting because Jeffrey was no match for Liam.Whether in strength or background..."Suzy!"Jeffrey, feeling infuriated, looked up at Liam standing a short distance from Suzy.Liam wiped the blood from his lips with
Previously, Liam hadn't continued investigating the death of Suzy's mother because he believed Suzy and Jeffrey were happily together. As an outsider, he thought intervening would only make Suzy resent him more.At that time, he truly wanted to let go of Suzy, start over, and completely say goodbye to the past.Based on these reasons, Liam didn't pursue the matter.But clearly, he was wrong—terribly wrong!He had taken 99 steps toward Suzy, only to halt just shy of the hundredth!...Unaware of all this, Suzy was busy organizing her materials, eagerly anticipating her meeting with Jeffrey to see B7 after work.Having finally managed to contact this elusive network hacker, she couldn't afford to miss the opportunity.Even if Liam canceled her entire month's salary, she had to go tonight.It had taken her four years of earning and saving money and seeking contacts to reach B7.She needed the restored surveillance footage to uncover the truth about her mother's death. She knew she had onl
Liam's voice carried a hint of helplessness, starkly contrasting his usual demeanor.Seeing him like this, Arthur felt a pang of discomfort. After some thought, he tentatively reached out and grasped a few of Liam's fingers.Liam's eyes shot up to meet his.What did this gesture mean?Arthur was acknowledging what Liam had just said!He was confirming Liam's suspicions.When Liam spoke again, his throat felt tight, and his voice trembled. "She... she's really your mother, isn't she?"Arthur instinctively wanted to play dumb, but he knew that his acting skills couldn't fool Liam. Moreover, the sadness and disappointment in Liam's eyes seemed genuine.After a few seconds of contemplation, Arthur decided to stop resisting. "You mustn't tell her I told you."Liam's entire body stiffened. Despite all his suspicions, hearing the truth confirmed left him shocked and speechless.Suzy... she had given him a child...No!Not just one!"You have a sister too, and she's my child as well?"Arthur
Liam furrowed his brows and turned to face her directly, their gazes locking."I am not lying to you."His eyes were so intense, so sincere as if they were trying to draw Suzy in completely!She began to regret bringing up this conversation with Liam, realizing she was now in a situation she couldn't easily escape.Suzy cleared her throat, feigning calmness, and averted her gaze. "Mr. Park, let's talk about work.""Alright, let's talk about work," Liam agreed readily. "You're working overtime today.""Liam—"Suzy was so angry she was grinding her teeth. "What exactly do you want? You said you hated me when we divorced. What, has the high and mighty Mr. Park decided to go back on his word and, after being dumped once, still intends to shamelessly pursue me?"Her words must have stung, as Liam's handsome face paled, and a hint of rationality returned to his eyes.He had been thrown off balance by Jeffrey's phone call.Hearing Suzy so affectionately tell Jeffrey to pick her up after work
Seeing Arthur like this, Suzy knew she had to play along. "Mr. Park, I'll wait outside then. Let's not upset the child."She expected some reaction from Liam, but he merely nodded. "Alright."Suzy turned and left Easter Bay, feeling increasingly uneasy about Liam's attitude, though she couldn't pinpoint exactly why.If he brought her to see Arthur to test her, why hadn't he done anything suspicious? He had gone straight to the kitchen to cook upon arriving home!What hidden trap could she have missed?With a restless heart, Suzy waited in the car for a while before seeing Liam come out of the house carrying a paper bag.Once in the car, he handed the bag to Suzy."I packed this for you.""No need, skipping one meal won't hurt me. I'll eat after work."Liam glanced at her, his thin lips moving slightly. "You'll be working late tonight, I’ll triple your pay."Hearing about overtime, Suzy quickly protested, "I can't tonight, I have plans!"Jeffrey had finally helped her arrange a meeting
"...I-I don't know what you're talking about!"Liam leaned down, his handsome face getting close to hers. "Then what do you mean by ‘leave bite marks’?"Suzy immediately averted her gaze, pretending to be calm. "Are you saying that you and your wife are in a sexless marriage? We're both adults; do I really need to spell it out?""Heh." Liam suddenly laughed. "You're blushing."Suzy was at a loss for words.She looked at the man in front of her as if she didn't recognize him anymore!When did Liam become so shameless?"Since you're already out of the car, come in and have something to eat."After saying that, Liam didn't give her a chance to refuse and walked away.Suzy stood there for a few seconds, took a deep breath, and then followed him.She could only hope that Arthur wouldn’t give anything away when he saw her......As soon as the door opened, she saw Arthur lounging on the sofa, playing with his computer.He knew his "lunch" had arrived as soon as he heard the noise! Slipping o
She realized Liam had a calculated plan for bringing her back to Park Group. On day one, he was already rushing to take her to see Arthur to test her!Recognizing this, Suzy reminded herself to be cautious around this man; who knew where the traps might be?She hoped that when she saw Arthur, she wouldn't give anything away!And... she also wanted to see her son, at least to know how he was doing!"You don't seem surprised that I have a son," Liam suddenly said.Suzy quickly snapped back to reality, shrugged, and acted indifferent. "Should I be surprised? We've been divorced for over four years. You're a normal man. Getting remarried and having children is normal, right?""I announced my marriage this year.""Oh, congratulations!"She had no desire to continue this conversation.Nor did she want to discuss Liam's new wife! That would remind her of the bite marks on his shoulder!"I thought you might be curious."Suzy forced a professional smile. "Mr. Park, we're here for work! This isn