Melody raised her hand to poke Raymond's shoulder vigorously. "Back then, you deceived Caterpie to get into Nova's car. Don't think that I didn't know that. Now, you have nowhere else to go because Nova committed crimes and got caught. And you want to come and deceive me? Do you think I'm stupid?"Raymond responded, "That was a misunderstanding."Melody asked, "What kind of misunderstanding?"Raymond said, "Promise to let me pursue you, and I'll explain it to you."Melody pointed at the door. "Please leave now."Raymond responded, "Ms. Mane, I really do like you a lot."Melody replied, "Mr. Seabrook, I really do hate you a lot! Seeing you makes me sick. Don't appear in front of me again, okay?"Raymond said, "Ms. Mane..."Melody responded, "If you don't leave now, I'll call the police."Melody had a strong personality and was not easy to deal with. Moreover, it seemed like she did not like Raymond at all. So, he had no choice but to leave.Raymond thought, 'I can't force a re
Stella was bubbling with excitement on the phone. "Abigail, guess what? The TV series I was supposed to work on got shelved because of issues with the investors. This means I'm available now."Abigail could not help but chuckle. "You're actually happy about a show being canceled?"Stella eagerly explained, "Yes, because it opens up my schedule for your series! I've talked it over with my manager and we're all set with Ripplewood Films. They're planning to start shooting your series right after New Year. Since you're the writer, we'll be hanging out on set together all the time."Hearing this, Abigail felt a rush of excitement; her very first television series script was about to come to life. "That's awesome. I'm super excited about it."Stella then asked, "Hey, when are you due? I want to make sure everything fits into the schedule."Abigail replied, "I'm due in three months. Don't worry, I'll still be able to work."Considering this, Stella said, "You'll be pretty far along in
Abigail thought hard and then decided to act. She figured that if she waited until the television series was shot or aired to discover someone had used her script, it would be hard to fight for her rights. So, she messaged Ryan Hale, her point of contact at Ripplewood Films, hinting she had proof. Not long after, Ryan called her."Abigail, are you really upset about being replaced?"Abigail was at a loss for words. In her mind, she was like, 'I've been working my butt off for more than six months. Sometimes I couldn't even sleep, thinking about the story. And now, they just replace me and don't even talk about giving me anything for it. I'm not a saint. Of course, I'm upset!'Abigail did not get a chance to respond before Ryan continued, making it clear he was not really looking for her input. His main aim was to explain his side. He said, "Stella's schedule changed, and the show is going to start filming right after New Year. We're sorry for replacing you as the writer so close to
Abigail was shocked when Adam unexpectedly called to apologize and asked her to keep working as the screenwriter. She was sure someone had helped her behind the scenes. She asked him straight up, "Who stood up for me?"Adam answered, "Nobody needed to stand up for you. Being a part of the Blau family is enough."'That explains it,' Abigail thought. She was torn between feeling fortunate or sad about this revelation. She pondered when the rules of society had shifted to favor only those with wealth and influence. Without the support of the Blau family, Abigail realized the struggle to defend her rights would have been unimaginably tough.Adam then said, "This is my phone number. Keep it with you. If you run into any trouble with work, let me know, and I'll take care of it.""Alright, thanks, Mr. Carter," Abigail replied."If it's convenient for you, I'd like to invite you to dinner after New Year," Adam suggested.Abigail answered, "I've been feeling pretty tired lately, so maybe
Abigail asked, "Who told you to say that?"Marlin replied, "My mom."Abigail, probing further, asked, "Did Mobius's wife and others ask you to pass on messages too?"Nodding, Marlin explained, "Yeah, she said since everyone in the family has seen Ronan grow up, they know him well and feel comfortable with you being with him."Abigail said, "You little rascal, just tell me what you want next time. I'll get it for you. No need to be a messenger."Marlin said, "I'm not just a messenger. I genuinely think Ronan is a good guy."Ronan had been a great support to Abigail in recent months, always there to help her out. However, Abigail had already declined his romantic advances. Her lack of feelings for him was part of it, but the main reason was her decision not to remarry. She was determined to raise her child on her own.Ronan appeared suddenly, directing a stern gaze at Marlin. "Mar, who asked you to say such things in front of Abigail?"Marlin stood his ground. "I wasn't making th
Ronan asked, "Is there really a need for a reason to like someone?"Abigail replied, "Isn't there?"Ronan, no longer able to contain his feelings, boldly confessed, "From the very first moment I saw you, I've had this deep affection for you. It's been a long, long time."Abigail, completely taken aback, asked, "How long are we talking about?"With sincerity in his eyes, Ronan said, "Much longer than you'd ever guess. Abigail, my feelings for you are real, and I dream of marrying you. If you'd be my wife, I'd love to be a father to your baby, ensuring our child grows up in a loving and whole family."Frightened by his intensity, Abigail stepped back. "Can't you just keep pretending to be uninterested in me for a bit longer?"Ronan stood his ground. "I can't do that anymore."Lost in her thoughts, Abigail wondered, 'Why did I push for the truth? Things were simpler when I was oblivious. Now, what am I supposed to do?'Ronan spoke again, his voice gentle and earnest, "I know you l
Abigail thought about her past, 'Growing up without parents, I faced a lot of unfairness, isolation, bullying, and prejudice. Yet, my grandma's love was just as much as any other kid got. I had everything that other kids had during my childhood. Mel and Fee were always with me, and their parents were super loving too. Even when I got wrongly accused and went through tough times, they stood by me, giving me endless strength. Sure, my life had its tough moments, but there were so many people who gave me warmth, helping me escape the dark, cold times and see the gentle sun. That's life, right? It's got its ups and downs. Some might not like you, but others will. It'll be the same for my baby. Not everyone will like them, but the love from me and those close to us is all we need.'Abigail touched her belly, feeling the life of her seven-month-old baby growing inside. She adored this child deeply and trusted herself to care for them without letting them face any hardship. As she raised her
Ronan said, "You can't just run from your problems. It's important to be brave and face them head-on."Abigail replied, "Who says I'm not brave? I'm just choosing to live life my way. Getting married isn't the end-all be-all for a woman. My baby has got my love, and a whole bunch of other people love them too. Missing a bit of fatherly love isn't a big deal." Ronan was left speechless. Abigail went on, "Look, you're a catch, and there's got to be tons of women out there into you. But I can't figure out why you're so hung up on me, a single mom. Is that some kind of weird thing for you?"Ronan said, "Remember the Groundbreaking Forum at university?""Absolutely! That forum was my favorite part of university. I'd go whenever I could and even got to chat with the professors on stage. But how do you know about it?""I was one of the people in the audience. I noticed you there."Abigail was stunned. "But that forum was at Florivera University. How were you there?""What if I was actua
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