Lucia said, "Thank you! After you meet her, I'll treat you to a boba drink."In the past, Daisy never allowed Lucia to drink anything with boba. She said boba was unhealthy as it contained a lot of sugar that could lead to weight gain.Because Daisy prohibited it, no matter how much Lucia wanted to drink it, she did not dare to.Abigail smiled. "Sure."After ending the phone call with Lucia, Abigail searched for Daisy's phone number and sent her a text to arrange a meeting.After only a few seconds since the text was sent, Daisy called. "Abigail, if you want to see me, I'll make time to see you even if I'm very busy."Abigail was disgusted by that lie. But she still calmly said, "Let's meet at 2 o'clock in the afternoon at Mall On. I hope you can be on time. Don't be late."Daisy replied, "All right, I'll get ready and head out right now. See you there."Abigail then immediately hung up.She knew very well that Daisy wanted to acknowledge her as her daughter because she knew X
"You like blue? Have you always liked blue? Or did you like any other colors when you were young?" Abigail expressionlessly continued to ask further on that question. But she was actually feeling intense emotions.That was because she had seen in Cassandra's diary that her mother had a youthful heart and her favorite color was pink, especially the pink color of a pink bow.However, Daisy's answer was blue.Abigail thought, 'Does this mean that Daisy isn't my mother? No, because a person's preferences could change over time.'After Abigail asked that, she quietly waited for Daisy's answer.Perhaps, Abigail's eagerness to ask that question made Daisy notice something was going on.Daisy smiled as she gave an ambiguous answer, "I can't remember. I only remember that my favorite color recently is blue."Daisy then filled Abigail's teacup and said, "Abigail, I left you and your father back then out of necessity. I only found out that I was pregnant after I left your father..."Daisy
It was not that Abigail was overly suspicious, but she wanted to be very careful. She thought, 'If someone planted a listening device around me, knew what I intended to do, and prepared ahead of me, then I wouldn't be able to get an accurate DNA test report today.'Lucia woke up early today. She leaned back on the seat and fell asleep very quickly.Abigail drove onto the highway to head toward another nearby city at a speed of seventy-five miles per hour.About two hours later, Abigail exited the highway and drove to the DNA testing facility in that city.After she parked the car, she woke Lucia up and said, "Lucia, we've arrived. Let's get out of the car now."Lucia drowsily opened her eyes. "Are we at the beach?"Abigail answered, "We're not. We're in another nearby city. I've gotten Daisy's blood and we're going to do a DNA test together."Lucia was still a little groggy. "Huh?"Abigail did not have time to explain further. "Just follow me for now. I'll explain it to you lat
This test report proved that Daisy was not Abigail's mother. Abigail suspected that the Daisy she knew might have stolen her mother's identity.Abigail asked, "What about the test results for samples B and C, as well as B and D?"The staff member replied, "Both the test results confirm biological relationships."Abigail was doubtful. "Are you sure that the test results for B and D show a biological relationship?"B was Abigail, C was Lucia, and D was Cassandra. She believed that Lucia and she were related.However, she clearly remembered that Cassandra's notebook stated that her father, Leroy, was adopted. Abigail wondered, 'Why does the DNA test result still show that Grandma and I are related?'Is there something wrong with what grandma stated in her notebook, or is there a problem with this DNA test facility?'Abigail tried very hard to think. But she still could not make sense of what was happening.The staff member was extremely sure. "You can take a look at the test repor
The more Abigail thought about it, the more complex she felt that matter was.Abigail responded, "Yes. It's very likely that at that time, our mother was no longer our mother, and her identity was assumed by Daisy."Lucia said, "Our father loved our mother so much, how could he not have recognized that his wife was replaced?"Abigail replied, "I'm not very sure about the details of what happened back then. Perhaps, because our father loved our mother so deeply, he never suspected anything when that woman assumed our mother's identity."Lucia asked, "What should we do now?"Abigail said, "This imposter who wants to become our mother now, Daisy, knows the best about what happened back then. We need to figure out a way to find a breakthrough from her."Lucia asked, "What do you need me to do?"Abigail replied, "You don't need to do anything. Just focus on your new job. I'll handle the rest." Abigail rubbed Lucia's head as she continued, "Let's go. We should go back to Florivera now
Xander's tone was like those domineering CEOs in the novels.Abigail, who was still somewhat worried, was suddenly tickled by him. "Sir, yes, sir!"Xander then said, "I'm talking seriously here. Be serious.""I remember everything you said. I'm totally serious."Xander had no retort.Abigail then added, "You already know what I went to a nearby city for, right?"Xander nodded. "Yeah.""And now I'm very confused as to who I should believe anymore," Abigail sighed."Tell me," Xander said."Grandma wrote in her diary that my father isn't her biological son, yet our DNA tests show a familial relationship, so should I believe the diary or the DNA tests?" Abigail wondered out loud."I too had performed a DNA test for the two of you, and the result was the same. Moreover, I got a person I trust to monitor the entire process, and no one could tamper with it, so what we can be sure of is that Cassandra is your grandmother," Xander said.That confused Abigail even more. "If Grandma wa
"I know my limits," Abigail replied.Xander then added, "I've already sent someone to investigate how and when the imposter took over Daisy's identity. We should get the results soon."Abigail thought that she was already fast enough, but Xander was a few steps ahead of her. "You've already had it investigated?""Yeah, I'll tell you once the results are out," Xander said."Why are you always a step ahead of me?" Abigail probed him."It's because I care about you," Xander replied."I..." Abigail was at a loss for words.Xander then continued, "I'm taking you to meet two old friends."When she heard the word ''old friends", she naturally thought of those industry leaders. "Lucas and Alwyn are back in Florivera? So, Stella and Susie are back as well? Try to drag Lucas somewhere later tonight, I want to spend some girl time with Stella and Susie," Abigail said.Thinking that she would be able to see Stella and Susie, Abigail was elated to the point that Xander could not bear to po
Xander said, "Don't talk about that with him. It's off-limits."Abigail asked, "So, are the rumors true?"Xander replied, "Johann really loved his wife and kid. After they died, he was sad for a long time. For decades, he's been by himself. People told him to get married again, especially for the Blau family's sake, but he never wanted to. He felt he only ever loved one person and that wouldn't change.""How did he lose his wife and kid?"Xander replied, "I'm not sure. He never talks about it, and I never asked.""Nathan, if something happens to me, don't be alone. You should find someone who gets you."Xander's face changed quickly. "Stop saying that."Abigail sighed, "Why is life so tough on good and loyal people? Why not on the ones who can't decide or are just plain mean?"Xander said, "Rest for a bit. We might be late tonight.""Alright."After chatting, Abigail leaned back in her seat and was soon fast asleep. Xander glanced at her. Behind his glasses, his eyes were fil
Emma turned and dashed into the bathroom. She cranked the faucet on and splashed water on her face, aiming to soothe her nerves.Although they were engaged, they were still too young, with countless uncertainties looming over their future. The possibility of actually walking down the aisle was up in the air.Decisions made in a rush of happiness could eventually become sources of regret. And Emma knew all too well that she couldn't afford any regrets.She thought that fortunately, Ron hadn't pushed things further, which gave her time to cool off.After freshening up, Emma stepped out to find Ron on the balcony, a cigarette in hand.She couldn't resist chiding him, "I've told you to cut down on smoking. Why can't you seem to remember?"This time, Ron complied, snuffing out the cigarette. "We should get some sleep. We've got to put our best foot forward when we meet your family tomorrow.""Okay, I'll sleep on the couch. You take the bed," Emma responded.Ron simply replied, "As y
Ron looked at her dawdling pace with disdain. "If you, a lady, can handle it, why can't I, a grown man, stay?"His words sounded noble, but Ron regretted them the moment they arrived at the hotel.Despite now earning a decent income, Emma was still reluctant to spend money.This place was hardly a hotel; it was clearly a budget inn charging only a few dozen bucks a night. The hygiene was questionable at best, and safety seemed like a gamble.Ron turned on his heel, dragging her suitcase behind him. "We're leaving, now.""It's too late, and we can't get a refund for the room.""Are you trying to get us killed?"Emma fell silent, her thoughts a whirlwind of frustration. 'I told him he wouldn't be used to cheap places. He insisted on coming with me, and now he won't even let me stay here alone. Why is he so annoying?'However, considering Ron had rushed over in the middle of the night to help her, Emma decided not to hold it against him.Ron picked the best hotel in the area—the
Rebekah glanced over at Ron; she exchanged a knowing look with him before saying, "I'll have someone tidy up the rooms. Why don't you two stay here tonight and keep me company?"Ron replied simply, "Sure."Emma had purchased a midnight flight back to South Florivera, necessitating a rush to the airport, which made staying over after dinner impossible.Yet, she found herself at a loss for words, struggling to decline Rebekah's kind offer.As she hesitated, Ron stepped in to clear the air. "Mom, I've got something on tonight. After dinner, I'll drive Emma back to her dorm."Rebekah raised an eyebrow. "What's so important?" she wondered aloud, thinking, 'Wasn't he the one insisting Emma stay over? What's he up to now?'Ron kept it mysterious. "Life stuff."Rebekah could not help but chide him lightly, "You, always the joker."Right after dinner, Ron insisted on leaving to take Emma back to her dormitory. But as soon as they were out of the gated community, he asked, "So, you reall
Ron chuckled. "I didn't know you were aware that even a cornered rat will fight."Emma shot him a glare. "Are we going or not?"Ron quickly said, "Of course. When Miss Blue commands, how can I dare not obey?"Fearing another of his notorious driving escapades, Emma hastily buckled her seatbelt as she settled into the car.Thankfully, this time Ron kept it smooth, driving steadily.As they neared their destination, Ron finally spoke up, "You know, that Tucker guy is a married man. Don't let his kindness fool you into being the other woman."Emma's gaze on Ron was fiery, seething with anger. "Do you even hear yourself? Is that what you think of me? For the last time: Tucker and I share nothing more than a mentor-mentee relationship. There's nothing else between us.""I'm just looking out for you, worried you might get deceived," Ron said, witnessing Emma's fury for the first time. Yet, he could not help but find her anger not at all intimidating, but rather endearingly foolish.R
The two sisters had a pact: no cell phones at home to keep their secrets from the prying eyes of the Blue family. Thus, Emma could call only at prearranged times, the sole window for Rihanna to catch up.Rihanna's voice bubbled with excitement over the phone, as she chattered away about her life's minutiae.Knowing Rihanna was doing well eased Emma's mind.Just as Emma was about to end the call, she heard Rihanna's voice, soft and wistful. "You're really not coming home for the holidays? If you don't, I'll be all alone."Emma's heart clenched at those words, and she made up her mind in an instant. "I'll come back the day before New Year's Eve."The Blue family had their hands full with festivities that day, too busy to notice Rihanna's absence. Emma figured slipping back unnoticed then would be her best shot.After hanging up, Emma immediately booked a flight from Valtara to South Florivera. With her ticket secured and her last bit of work finished, Emma prepared to leave her off
Emma had no interest in romance, let alone the audacity to dream that Ron might fancy her.This time, she did not pick up the thread of conversation.After dinner, Ron, as usual, drove Emma back to the university.Before parting, Ron said, "Winter break is almost upon us, and the dorms might be off-limits. Are you sure you don't want to stay at my place for a couple of months?"Emma offered a smile in response. "Thanks for the offer. I've spoken with the dorm supervisor and submitted an application in advance. I'll be able to stay over the holiday period."Ron paused before saying, "Well, if you need anything, just let me know. I'll text you my number in a bit; make sure you save it."Emma nodded. "Sure."Without further ado, Ron drove off.Upon returning to her dorm, Emma saw Evelyn and Cassie, busy packing their bags, surrounded by gifts for their parents bought from Valtara.Evelyn asked Emma, "Are you really not going home for the winter break?"Emma replied, "No, I won't
Emma did not have the guts to risk failure because she did not have a safe haven to fall back on.Lucas kicked Ron in the shin. "Come on, if you fancy her, out with it. No Hagrid heir dithers like this."Ron glared at him. "Mind your own business." In his head, Emma was already his. The thought of losing her was unimaginable.Lucas said, "Without my meddling, she'd never be yours."Ron changed the subject. "I called you here for a serious discussion."Lucas replied, "No matter how serious, it can't outweigh the matter of your lifetime happiness."Ron was exasperated. "Lucas!"Lucas relented. "Alright, alright, you talk, I'm all ears."Ron spelled out Emma's music venture with Tucker. After hearing it all, Lucas could not help but see Emma in a new light."Never pegged Emma as such a dark horse," Lucas said.Silently listening to their conversation, Emma was thrilled to have her work recognized.Lucas said, "But, getting back to it, whether a song makes money, and how much, d
Ron barked, "Lucas!"With a chuckle, Lucas responded, "Alright, alright, I'll stop teasing Emma. I'm starving. Let's grab some food and talk business while we eat."Ron snapped, "Get lost!"Lucas could not help but revel in Ron's frustration. "Ron, have you fallen so quickly? Who was it that told me they would never accept an arranged marriage?"Emma was increasingly confused by their banter. "If it's inconvenient for me to be here, I can just take a cab and leave."Ron said, "Call you dumb and you won't admit it!"Emma thought to herself, 'I didn't want to be a third wheel, cramping their style. Was that really so wrong? No good deed goes unpunished, apparently.'Suddenly, Ron grabbed Emma's hand and led her inside. "It's cold out; let's go inside."Emma had to quicken her pace, practically being dragged along.Seeing them together, Lucas laughed heartily from behind. "Ron, oh Ron, never thought I'd see the day.""Don't laugh too soon. Your day is coming," Ron shot back.Th
Emma said, "Okay."Ron asked, "Have you won over your crush?"Lucas responded, "Secret."Ron replied, "Looks like you haven't won her over."Lucas said, "As long as I make a move, there's no girl I can't win over. But I haven't made a move yet because the timing isn't right."Ron asked, "Is it because of the Sandow family?"Lucas answered, "The Sandow family wants to marry their daughter to me, and my family wants me to marry her too. But I've told them long ago that I'm not willing to do that. Nobody can make me marry a girl I don't like."Emma remained silent. 'I didn't expect that Lucas would also have the same problem as me and Ron.'It seems like the wealthier the family, the more they'll arrange marriages based on social status without considering personal preferences.'Lucas seemed to sense Emma's thoughts. "Emma, my situation with the Sandow girl is different from yours and Ron's. Don't lump us together."Ron looked at Emma and suddenly said, "There isn't any other gi