Jeffrey still wanted to push the money back, but Wendy stepped in first, stuffing it directly into his arms."Okay, then Jeff will accept it!""Huh?"Suzy chuckled, picking up her phone and standing up. "I'm going to the restroom, you guys can continue eating."As soon as she left, Jeffrey looked at the stack of money with a helpless frown. "What does it mean if I accept this money?""You don't understand Suzy! She's always so cautious, wishing to account for every penny. If you want any future with her, you can't be so impulsive," Wendy said helplessly when she spoke of her friend.Having known her for so many years, the most vivid description Wendy had of Suzy was that Suzy lacked a sense of security.Yet, she often pretended to be strong."She really needs money now, her mother's surgery costs a lot. Does she really need to be so calculative?" Jeffrey realized that Suzy was not the girl he had imagined.It seemed like she was always distancing herself, cutting ties with any relatio
After finishing dinner, Jeffrey drove them back to their place and made sure the doors were locked before he left.Suzy was utterly exhausted; she took a quick shower and went to bed.That night, she had a troubled sleep, staying curled up with her hands gripping the blanket tightly.The next morning, Suzy was jolted awake by the alarm clock.She opened her eyes, gazing at the unfamiliar ceiling. It took her a moment to remember that she was staying at Wendy's house.She got up, got dressed, and finished her morning routine. Wendy walked out of her bedroom with her phone in hand, saying, "Wait a moment. I just ordered breakfast on my phone. Let's have breakfast together before heading to work."Suzy checked the time and replied, "I can't wait. It's quite far from here to Park Group. I need to catch the subway now! I won't have breakfast with you.""Well, then just take a taxi! It's not that expensive." Wendy blurted out casually before realizing that Suzy would never spend money on a
Approaching noon, Suzy finally had a moment to relax and let out a sigh.She subconsciously glanced at the phone beside her, then picked it up, unlocked it, and opened WhatsApp.There were no new messages.Liam's WhatsApp was the third on the screen, with the last message being the one she had sent to him.Suzy suddenly wished that she could see him online on WhatsApp.But even if she were to see him come online, what could she possibly say to him?There was a knock on the office door.Suzy looked up, and it was Alec."Lately, keep an eye on the GrowthTech Company in New Valley. They've been making frequent moves in terms of asset acquisitions this year, mainly focusing on new technology development assets. “Mr. Park's business trip this time is also to gather information about this situation. We at Park Group are considering injecting promising publicly listed companies through targeted issuance.”"Alright." Suzy immediately opened her computer and started to get a basic understandin
Was she about to meet Liam?Suzy found it hard to put her current mood into words; she felt like she was in a state of uncertainty, neither here nor there.She wanted to find an excuse to avoid it, but then, why was she trying to escape? After all, there had to be a conclusion between her and Liam, whether it was terminating the contract or whatever it might be, sooner or later, they had to meet.Alec had left right after giving instructions, leaving Suzy to spend the entire afternoon thinking about the evening's meeting.After finishing work, she walked out of the company and saw Jeffrey's car parked in the distance, with Wendy standing next to it.Suzy walked briskly over. "Why did you both come?""Well, I thought the headquarters was far from my place, and my cousin had some free time, so I asked him to pick me up.""No need, I can just take the subway."Wendy affectionately linked her arm with Suzy's and giggled. "I just wanted to see you more! Back when we worked at FortuneWave,
After returning to Wendy's house, Suzy didn't even have time to drink water. She immediately started organizing the materials she would need for the meeting.Since the task from GrowthTech had just been assigned to her today, and it was a major move for the company, she needed to pay full attention during the meeting because her understanding of this project was still at a basic level. After preparing everything she could think of, Suzy sat in her chair, on her computer, and entered the company's meeting interface.It displayed – 8 P.M. Channel One Technology Development Project Meeting Main Host: Liam Park.”As she gazed at the name on the screen, a sudden wave of anxiety washed over Suzy, as though her concerns had just sprung to life.Would she get to witness his injuries during the meeting? Would his face be permanently scarred?She lowered her gaze to the bottom right corner of the computer. There was still nearly an hour before the meeting started. Normally, she should go find
Alec provided a detailed report on the due diligence of the GrowthTech project, covering various aspects such as finance, future prospects, changes in shareholders, and a thorough analysis of the current state of technology development.Suddenly, Suzy heard someone mention her name."Miss Chase from the Investment Department recently proposed a technology project related to new automobiles to FortuneWave, and it has been submitted to the headquarters for review. “I took a look, and if the information is accurate, it aligns well with our current development needs."The speaker was the Director of Investments, Gary Clinton, holding a significant position within Park Group. Behind the camera, Liam nodded slightly without lifting his eyelids and said, "Alec, please focus on it.""I've already looked into it. It was developed by several university professors, with a certain Professor Jeffrey Palmer leading the project. He holds a number of patents and is indeed a talented individual."Whe
Were those words targeted at her?Seeing a flood of responses below, Suzy quickly sent a message acknowledging receipt.The meeting continued until one in the morning, but with the CEO as the host, no one dared to yawn.Finally, the CEO's secretary concluded the meeting and announced, "That's it for today's meeting."Suzy breathed a sigh of relief. She was about to turn off her camera and stretch when Liam added at the end, "The person in charge of the new car technology project mentioned in the meeting earlier will meet me separately.""Are you referring to the project led by Jeffrey Palmer?" Alec asked directly."Yes.""Alright! Miss Chase from the Investment Department, you will connect with Mr. Park separately."Suzy really hadn't expected this surprise. Under the watchful eyes of everyone, she nodded quickly. "Okay."Exiting the meeting room, she stared at Liam’s personal account for several seconds but couldn't muster the courage to request the connection.She was afraid and emb
Without waiting for Suzy to say anything, Liam had already hung up on the other end.It appeared as if their connection had instantly returned to the dynamics of a CEO and an employee.Right, he had reconciled with Sophia. What position could her substitute still have?She closed her computer. After changing into her pajamas and taking a shower, Suzy lay in bed but unexpectedly couldn't fall asleep.She tossed and turned, unable to sleep.It was already early morning, and if she didn't sleep soon, she would have to get up for work!Suzy closed her eyes tightly, but no matter what, she couldn't feel sleepy. She decided to get up and restart her computer to continue working.Just as she logged into the company's server, she noticed that Liam was still online.Hadn't he gone to sleep?She stared at the screen for a while before suddenly remembering that Liam was currently abroad, in a different time zone. It was afternoon there.She tugged at her lips, chuckling with a hint of self-deprec
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