No one could make Lucas do anything, yet he harbored concerns and found certain topics difficult to discuss.Grace asked, "You're not thinking of remarrying Stella, are you?"Lucas nodded. "I am."Grace stared at him, unable to believe what she heard. "Are you sure?"Lucas replied, "I'm sure."Grace said, "You were the one who wanted a divorce, and now you want to remarry her. Lucas White, have you ever considered Stella's feelings?"When she thought about the mistreatment her daughter had suffered, she was so furious that her eyes turned red. She continued, "I know your family is wealthy, and we're poor. But no matter how poor we are, Mitch and I love our daughter very much, and Stella has had everything she wanted since she was a child. Before you appeared in her life, our family had never suffered such humiliation."Lucas replied, "I know."Grace was furious. "You know absolutely nothing."Lucas remained silent.Having always been polite to Lucas, Grace today abandoned all
Mitch raised his hand and then got up, walking around a bit. "Look, I'm absolutely fine now."Stella said, "That's great. I probably won't be able to work for a while after I'm discharged. I'll take you and Mom to visit Valtara.""Sure. I've always wanted to go to Valtara. But your mom didn't want to waste money, so she won't let me go.""The money I gave you and Mom each month was intended for your discretionary spending."Mitch was excited about this. "We've never spent the money you gave us; your mom saved it for you, knowing the challenges of making it on your own and providing a backup plan."Stella did not know about this at all.She said, "Dad, I'm wealthier than you think. You two should spend as you wish. You don't need to save any money for me. I have my backup plans, and you don't need to worry."Mitch replied, "It's normal for parents to worry about their child. Your mom also mentioned--""What's wrong with you? I told you not to tell her about it, but you did it an
Mitch liked his ex-son-in-law, Lucas, but the thought of his daughter almost losing her life because of Lucas made it impossible for him to remain cordial.He was soft-hearted and preferred harmony. That was why Grace took charge in the family. He glanced at Lucas, then at Grace.Being always strong-willed, Grace remained uncompromising. "We still can afford our meals, Mr. White. You don't need to worry about us."Lucas had a way to persuade Mitch and Grace to accept the dishes he prepared. "You've traveled a long distance, and you're my elders. It's only right for me to treat you to a meal."These dishes took several hours to prepare. Even if you don't eat, Stella must be hungry now. Let her eat some. She hasn't had much since she woke up. Extended hunger isn't good for her recovery."Mitch became extremely worried upon hearing that Stella had not eaten much since waking up. "Grace, let's eat. We can endure hunger, but Stella can't."Grace glared at Lucas and took the cart. "Tha
That's good," Mitch said as he wiped away his tears again. "Stella, come home once your injury has healed. You don't need to work so hard at filming anymore. Use your mom's savings wisely. It's enough to support a good life in our small town indefinitely."Stella always knew her father was the one in her family who least wanted her to be an actress.No one dared make Stella do any intimate scenes for real, thanks to Lucas's interference.However, Mitch and the townspeople were unaware of this, leading to gossip about her.No father would willingly let his daughter be talked about behind her back. So, Mitch had previously asked her if she could stop filming.At that time, Stella thought Mitch felt embarrassed by her job. She told him that she wanted to film for a few more years to earn more money.After Stella's rejection, he never again suggested she return to live in her hometown. Whenever Mitch called, he simply encouraged Stella to focus on her work and not worry about other m
Lucas, frustrated, rapidly smoked through a whole pack of cigarettes.Beside Lucas, Robbie repeatedly contemplated speaking up, but fearing his anger, chose to wait in silence.Grabbing another pack of cigarettes, Lucas turned to Robbie and snapped, "You're standing there silently. Are you mute or trying to scare people?"Robbie wanted to curse, but he remained respectful. "Mr. White Sr. called again and insisted that you must go back tonight."Lucas sneered, "He removed the guards I had arranged for Stella's protection, allowing Stellie to execute her plan and seriously injure Stella. I haven't even dealt with him for that yet. And now he dares ask me to go back?""He probably wants to talk to you about matters related to the upcoming White Corporation's board meeting. Your uncle's family has been making bold moves lately. They're even trying to exploit your relationship with Stellie for their own gains. If you don't go back and don't answer Mr. White Sr.'s call, he might come to
Jacey said, "But I think Lucas has a special affection for that girl. I thought Lucas divorced her because he was tired of her and had come to his senses. So, I immediately arranged for him to meet other girls. Do you know what he said to me?"Lionel asked, "What did he say?""He said he divorced her at her request. And he'd inevitably remarry her sooner or later."Lionel asked, "When did that happen? Why didn't you tell me earlier?"Jacey answered, "It was in the second week after his divorce."Lionel said, "If that's the case, it seems like we can't keep that actress around anymore.""Dad, who can't be kept around anymore?"Suddenly, Lucas's voice could be heard from behind.His parents were startled and turned to look.Lucas, with his arms crossed in front of him, looked at them smiling.Jacey, feeling uneasy yet smiling, approached Lucas. "You're back. Have you had dinner? If not, I can have Megan prepare something--"Before she could finish speaking, Lucas cut in. "Mom,
Lionel held Jacey's hand tightly. "Don't just listen to him, Jacey. Let me explain. It isn't what you think--"Jacey thought, 'His wanting to explain means he's indirectly admitted it.'"Lucas, take me to Rhapsody Estates," Jacey said as she cut Lionel off and furiously walked away.With a triumphant expression, Lucas glanced at the pale-faced Lionel before following Jacey. "Mom, my car is parked outside the gate, not in the yard. This way, please. We'll be able to leave this heartbreaking place very quickly."Jacey walked outside without responding.Soon, they got into Lucas's car, with Jacey in the back seat and Lucas driving.After slowly leaving the villa area, Lucas glanced at Jacey in the rearview mirror. "Mom, are we really going to Rhapsody Estates?"Jacey's face showed little emotion as she asked in return, "When did you find out?"Lucas knowingly asked, "Find out about what?""You're my son. You can fool others, but not me. You must explain it to me today.""Right,
Lucas said, "The mother and son aren't in the country."Jacey raised her eyebrows as her gaze turned colder. "Lionel did think it through. He sent them away long ago because he was afraid that I'd cause trouble for them if I found out."Lucas responded, "Mom, it was actually I who sent them away, not Dad.""You sent them away? Did you do that to help me resolve my problems, or are you trying to use them to threaten Lionel?""Neither.""So, why?""I sent them away to dispel any unrealistic ideas, making it clear that deceiving Dad wouldn't benefit them.""What do you mean?""Dad was tricked.""Tricked? Did someone else actually carry him to that woman's bed? I thought you were different from other men. Turns out you're all the same.""Mom, believe it or not, Dad was indeed carried to that woman's bed by someone else.""Tell me the details."Lucas asked, "Remember when Dad handed over the White Corporation to me in his prime?"This incident deeply affected both the White Cor
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