Felix poked Melody's forehead. "Mel, have you got some issues from getting high chasing after dream couples? Even if you didn't use this fake certificate to do something bad, creating this type of fake certificate is illegal. Don't do this in the future.""What?" Melody picked up the marriage certificate and looked at it. Due to not daring to believe that the man in the photo was Xander, she rubbed her eyes. She closed her eyes and opened them again. The man on the marriage certificate still had Xander's face. She screamed, "Ah!"She let out a high-pitched scream and bounced around the room excitedly. "Oh my god, I would never expect that the strangest couple I've been pursuing would actually come true!"Abigail was oddly serious. "You should destroy this fake certificate quickly, or else, I'll ignore you."Melody displayed the marriage certificate in front of Abigail and Felix. "Stinky Caterpie and Stinky Fee, both of you should open your eyes widely and take a good look. Do you s
Melody hoped from the deepest parts of her heart that Nathan was Xander. "Fee, do you remember that not long after Caterpie had just been promoted to assistant to the CEO, Xander had come to our place once?"Felix answered, "The look he gave me that day was so terrifying. How could I forget? We then ate grilled food together. Xander had explained this in the past too. He said that he had come on that day to look for Caterpie due to matters at work."Melody continued, "He, a CEO of the Zane Corporation, would personally come to look for Caterpie? What kind of work would be unable to be talked about over the phone and require you to personally come to look for Caterpie personally?"The things that they were discussing had already run through Abigail's mind once. After carefully counting the days, both of them said that the day Xander came to their rented apartment was the exact same day she and Xander returned from a business trip in Valtara.Xander had said he wanted to go on a date
Felix logically analyzed it for her. "Firstly, I think Xander isn't a good person. Secondly, his status isn't something we regular people can match with."Melody continued, "Xander was never close to the opposite sex, so how is he not a good person? Besides, he had already married Caterpie. They're husband and wife; why aren't they matching?"Felix spat out, "Ptui, what do you mean not close to the opposite sex? Caterpie saw with her own eyes that Xander had sex with another woman the other night. They said that marrying into the wealthy would be complicated. There's no benefit to it, with many cases of people being chased out. Since our Caterpie is so innocent and cute, there's an even bigger chance of her being scammed."The news of Xander sleeping with another woman was like a mega bomb that blew up and caused Melody's brain to buzz. After a long while, they could hear her weak voice say, "Didn't Caterpie just say that the person who cheated wasn't Xander?""Do you believe her?"
Felix looked at Melody disgustedly. "Your values align with other people's facial features. You're truly hopeless."Melody replied righteously, "There are many people in society who are like this. I'm not an exception."Abigail held onto the marriage certificate that felt as though it weighed a ton and got up slowly. "Both of you continue packing. I'm going to ask Xander face-to-face."Felix also stood up. "It's so late; it's not safe to let you go out alone. I'll accompany you there."Melody instantly pulled Felix back. "Caterpie is driving there. There won't be much danger.""Mhm, I'm driving there." Abigail turned around and returned to her room.Felix was furious. "Melody!"Melody answered him, "What are you doing following too? To be a third wheel? I warn you, don't disturb our Caterpie from making a child with Xander. Both husband and wife are gorgeous, so the baby they give birth to will be super beautiful. In the future, I'll be the child's godmother. If I bring that chi
Upon arriving at the hospital parking lot and parking her vehicle, Abigail remained seated within, her mind awash with images. She found herself recalling the numerous interactions she had had with Xander over the past year. To her, Xander was an outstanding boss; he defended his subordinates, treated them with respect, and made sure they were well-compensated. Likewise, she respected him and defended him. If he were ever in danger, she would not hesitate to risk her own life to save him, but she had never imagined him to be Nathan, her husband. After sitting in the silence for what felt like an eternity, Abigail took in a deep, cooling breath before exiting her vehicle and heading toward the hospital's inpatient department.At this hour, visiting hours were well over. But this hospital was owned by Xander's family, and one word from him could easily grant anyone visiting rights. Abigail spotted Dr. Sander waiting for her at the entrance while she was still a fair distance away. She h
Xander had not expected Abigail to bring up Nathan, and it set off a flicker of unease within him. "Why the sudden question?"Abigail managed a small, forced smile. "Just looking to understand him better, from another perspective."Her smile did not reach her eyes; Xander noticed but did not press. "I've told you before, Nathan and I are very close, almost like one person. If you ever need something from him and can't reach him directly, you can always tell me.""And how did you meet?" Abigail asked. "The Harts are just average folks, hardly noteworthy in Florivera."With practiced ease, Xander spun a tale. "Our grandmas were close friends. They would often arrange for us to play together, so we've known each other since we were children.""Oh..." Abigail let out a soft sound, then switched gears. "And your wife? You've been ill, and yet she hasn't been by your side?""She wasn't aware of my illness initially. Once she found out, she came straight away," Xander replied.'Is he t
Xander's hand was large and attractive, the fingers long and well-proportioned, knuckles prominent. Perhaps it was the force he used, but the veins on the back of his hand were noticeable, adding a hint of ferocity. Abigail withdrew her own hand, resuming her seat. "Mr. Zane, what would you like to chat about?"Seeing her sit back down, Xander felt relieved. "We don't necessarily have to talk about anything, just sit with me for a while longer. If you find conversing with me dull, you can play on your phone." He merely wanted her company, to be able to see her was enough. He dared not wish for more.Since he had said it that way, Abigail saw no reason to hold back. She took out her phone and sent a WhatsApp message to Nathan.Abigail: [Nathan.]As expected, Xander's phone, which he had set aside, buzzed.Continuing, Abigail sent a second message: [We.]Xander's phone buzzed again.Immediately following, Abigail sent a third message. How she wished Xander's personal phone would n
"Ugh..." With one hand clutching her chest, Abigail attempted to push Xander away. But he stood before her like a mountain, immovable. In her desperation, she even tried to use her legs. "I said back off! Don't touch me!"Xander held her firmly, his handsome face clouded with concern. "Abigail, stop struggling! Tell me what's wrong!"Perhaps it was the power of his aura, or maybe after working under him for so long, she had developed a muscular obedience to him. When he told her to stop, she indeed ceased struggling, compliantly lying in bed, like a lamb ready for slaughter. She had exhausted all her strength in vain attempts to break free from his grip, and now, it felt like her thoughts were controlled by him too. For a moment, Abigail felt like a tiny pet in his hand, toyed with at his whim, unable to escape unless he released her. This realization drove her to emotional collapse."Can't you hear me telling you to let go? Who are you? What do you want?""Alright, I'll let go for
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