Upon hearing what Nina said, Nash's face turned extremely pale, and a heavy sensation weighed on his chest. He got up, ignoring Nina's crying, and stood solemnly by the window, lighting up a cigarette and puffing away. Smoke lingered, and the air turned icy cold. After finishing the cigarette, he left the bedroom without returning.The next day, Nina woke up with a severe headache. As she rose from bed, she held her head, feeling it heavier than her feet. Pouring herself a glass of water, she tried to sober up. Heading to the bathroom to freshen up, she noticed her swollen eyes, indicating that last night wasn't peaceful. She remembered Nash bringing her back home, but there were no signs of him having moved, suggesting he didn't sleep beside her. However, she recalled him taking care of her for a long time. It was the first time he had been so caring towards her. Nina was a bit puzzled as to why Nash happened to be with her last night and why he escorted her home. Vaguely, she
"Nash has plenty of designer clothes," Nina said expressionlessly. "As long as it's me who buys them, he'll wear them. I'm just wondering who you are picking clothes for."Miranda walked over, and their eyes met, both refusing to back down, sparks almost flying between them. Miranda smirked, "I got a limited-edition designer outfit for my boyfriend. There are only ten in the world. Would you like to see it?" Her tone was tinged with a hint of boastfulness. She could afford to order luxurious, high-end clothes, while Nina's choices in the store were commonplace. They were not on the same level when it came to selecting clothes for their men.The sales assistant brought out the box containing the limited-edition coat, exuding the scent of money from inside out. Nina at her with a hint of sarcasm, "You need someone else's money even to buy a dress. Are you sure this time it's not the case?"Miranda raised an eyebrow, "My boyfriend is willing to spend money on me. Are you envious?"
She didn't believe that Nash would have given Nina a bank card with twenty million dollars in it. She had inquired, and their relationship wasn't good; Nash rarely took care of her. She had been his secretary for seven years and couldn't even get him to look at her properly. If Nash cared about her, he wouldn't hide their marriage; instead, he would openly announce their relationship. The only possibility was that Nina was financially supported by her sugar daddies behind Nash's back.She would rather believe this than believe Nash would give her money to spend."What's wrong with my nephew giving his wife some money? Does it need to be suspected by others? Do you feel a bit sour about not getting what you want?" Suddenly, another voice came from their conversation.Following the voice, Nina saw Zoe York, gracefully swaying her slender waist. She was wearing a black dress, outlining her graceful figure. With her hair pinned up into a bun, she appeared to be almost fifty years old,
Miranda stood there, forcing a smile as she turned back, "Zoe, do you have any other business?"Zoe looked at her, "Are you here to buy clothes too? This coat isn't for yourself, is it?"Miranda's face stiffened, "It's for someone else."Zoe saw through it but didn't expose it. With her arms crossed, she spoke coldly, "Miranda, you're a public figure after all. You should know what's right and what's wrong. Just because I don't say anything doesn't mean I agree. I'm just turning a blind eye out of respect for your family’s reputation. Don't wait until everything falls apart to regret it. I'm not like Sally, allowing you to do as you please!"Miranda's expression turned ugly, feeling humiliated. Her steps faltered, and her assistant helped her leave."Nina, it's rare to meet. Let's go for a drink," Zoe said with a smile."Sure, Zoe, there's a café nearby. Let's go there," Nina replied.The two headed to the café.Though Zoe didn't often involve herself in family matters, she sti
He just didn’t love her, plain and simple. In Zoe's view, she and Nash made a good couple, but it was crucial to also consider whether being with her could truly bring happiness to Nash.However, it took a different turn with Zoe, who smiled and said, "I only said a few words, and you're already defending your husband. Nina, I know you love Nash deeply, and it's all his luck. He could search for a million years and still wouldn't find a wife like you. Maybe he went through too much hardship in his childhood, so now that he's grown up, he deserves a little happiness."Nina was puzzled. "Did he not have a good childhood?"Growing up in such a privileged family, he should have been happier than ordinary people.Zoe's expression changed for a few seconds, but then she laughed casually and said, "Let's not dwell on those matters. Nash probably wouldn't want to either. I just hope you two will give me grandchildren soon."She also wanted to retire in the future and stay at home to tak
Hearing this, Nash was shocked and turned pale, furrowing his brows tightly. He said, "Where are you? I'll be right there!""What's happening, Nash?" Miranda asked, seeing his urgency."Nina is in trouble!" Nash didn't even glance at her, he just ran out.Seeing how hurried he was, Miranda sensed his deep concern for Nina, but she had no idea what was going on. Nina had been perfectly fine during the day. How could something happen so suddenly? She looked at the gift box left behind, untouched, feeling a pang of disappointment.The assistant beside her said, "Just a few hours ago, Nina was fine. What could have happened? Could it be that she found out Mr. York was here and intentionally caused trouble to ruin the relationship between you two?"Miranda's face went slightly pale, but she composed herself and said, "That's unlikely. Nina isn't that petty. Maybe something really did happen. I'm thinking if I should go help.""Miranda, you're too kind. I think Nina is quite cunning,"
Zoe stood firmly at the doorway, her gaze locked onto Nash. Seeing Zoe there, Nash halted his steps, his eyes narrowing slightly as he called out, "Aunt Zoe.""So you still recognize me as your aunt," Zoe couldn't tolerate his words, and she scolded him, "You've left Nina alone, are you going to find that mistress, Miranda?"Nash furrowed his brows slightly in response, retorting, "Don't believe everything you hear and don't say such things in the future."Nina could only smile wryly upon hearing this. Regardless of the circumstances, the one he always defended was Miranda. However, Zoe didn't believe it: "You think I don't know you? Besides that woman, who else would make you abandon Nina and rush off? Isn't it her? What's wrong with her? Did the sky fall or is she dying? Can't survive without you? Today, you're not allowed to leave. Stay here and take care of Nina."Zoe's attitude was adamant. Yet Nash still respected this aunt, patiently responding, "I still have work.""Even
She had an allergic reaction to alcohol, feeling itchy all over. It was Nash's constant care that prevented her from scratching her skin. Indeed, even if there wasn't any love between her and Nash, and even if she wasn't happy in the York family, she could still feel his compassion at times.She withdrew her hand, her voice slightly strained, but she still indulged him, saying, "It will get better gradually. Antihistamines may not completely work too, so don't worry too much. Aren't you still busy? I'll open the door for you. Don't take Zoe's words to heart. Even if you leave, I won't say anything in front of her."She went to open the door but found it locked from the inside and couldn't be opened."Let's sleep here tonight. The door will naturally be opened in the morning, and then we'll go home." Nash knew that Zoe would resort to this, so he didn't expect to go out again tonight. Nina had to give up. "Okay."Nash took off his suit, leaving only his shirt on, and looked at her
Her eyes turned redder, tears stubbornly welling up as if refusing to fall. Karina, watching the girl’s pained struggle, felt a pang of sympathy. She was about to say something to console her when Wilfred gently pulled her behind him, shielding her once more.His gaze remained cold, but his tone carried an unmistakable impatience. “That’s enough. This ends here. Don’t come bothering us again.”The girl froze as if struck by his blunt and merciless words. Her body trembled, and at last, the tears spilled over, rolling down her cheeks and hitting the ground in heavy drops. She opened her mouth, managing to squeeze out a broken, choked whisper: “I… I just…” But the rest of her words were swallowed by the overwhelming tide of her emotions, dissolving into silence.Wilfred frowned slightly but didn’t respond further. He simply took Karina’s hand and turned to leave. Just as they were about to walk away, the girl suddenly shouted hysterically, “Wilfred, I’ve liked you for so long! E
Karina sensed the girl’s unfriendly gaze and instinctively moved closer to Wilfred. Without a word, Wilfred casually placed a hand on her shoulder, a subtle but protective gesture. The girl’s jealousy flared even stronger at the sight. Forcing a strained smile, she turned to Karina and asked, “And who might this be?”Wilfred answered before Karina could speak. “This is Karina, my… friend.” As he spoke, he glanced at Karina, a trace of warmth flickering in his gaze, unnoticed by anyone but her. The girl let out a faint scoff. “A friend, huh? Dr. Wilfred, you’re always so busy with work. It’s rare for you to take time off, yet you didn’t think to invite me? I thought we were close. After all, you took such good care of me when I was your patient.”Her voice was laced with grievance and subtle reproach. Wilfred frowned slightly. His tone remained polite but distant. “It’s good that you’ve recovered. Taking time off is just for relaxation. I didn’t give it much thought.”Though
“Be careful,” Wilfred whispered, his voice carrying a barely noticeable tremor. Karina leaned into his embrace and said softly, “Thank you. I was too careless.”They proceeded cautiously down the corridor and arrived at a room filled with ancient books and peculiar instruments. Curious, Karina picked up a dusty old book. As soon as she opened it, the faint sound of gears turning echoed in the room. Slowly, a stone table emerged from the center of the floor, revealing a complex puzzle box resting on top.Karina studied the puzzle box carefully, noticing that each piece was engraved with unique symbols and patterns. She tried fitting a few pieces together but couldn’t make sense of it. Meanwhile, Wilfred searched the room for other clues and discovered an ancient mural in one corner. The mural depicted several figures gathered around a similar-looking box, seemingly performing some kind of ritual. He examined the gestures and expressions of the figures in the mural and suddenly
Wilfred snapped out of his thoughts, meeting Karina’s eager gaze. Without hesitation, he nodded. “Sure, as long as it’s something you’ll enjoy.”The two of them arrived at an escape room venue, where the receptionist greeted them warmly.Karina asked curiously, “Hi, we’d like to play an escape room. What themes do you have?”The receptionist smiled and began explaining, “We have a horror-themed ‘Midnight Fright,’ an adventure-themed ‘Lost Tomb,’ and a mystery-themed ‘Misty Manor.’ Each has its own level of difficulty and style.”Wilfred looked at Karina. She thought for a moment before saying, “Let’s try ‘Lost Tomb.’ It sounds mysterious and fun.”The receptionist nodded. “This theme is very popular, but it’s also quite challenging. Are you sure?”Wilfred replied confidently, “No problem. We’ll go with this one.”“All right,” the receptionist continued. “The ticket price for this theme is $30 per person. If you complete it within the time limit, you’ll even get a special gift fr
Leonard, a cheerful and outgoing young man, worked skillfully at the machine while apologizing profusely. “Sorry about this. I don’t know what’s up with this machine today. It’s being a bit temperamental. I hope it’s not causing too much trouble for you.”Karina smiled back warmly. “It’s no problem at all.”As Leonard glanced up at Karina and Wilfred, he couldn’t help but comment, “You two look great together! Are you on a date?”Karina’s cheeks flushed slightly, and she opened her mouth to clarify, but Wilfred cut in first. “Thank you. It’s a rare day off, so I thought I’d take her out to relax.”Startled, Karina glanced at him in surprise, but the unexpected sweetness of his words brought a quiet warmth to her heart.Leonard grinned knowingly. “This movie’s been super popular lately. Lots of couples have been coming to watch it. You’re lucky to have snagged tickets—later in the day, it’s almost impossible to get seats.”Wilfred nodded politely. “Is that so? Then I suppose we’re
Karina couldn’t reconcile the composed, confident, and highly skilled Wilfred she knew with the idea of him as a slave. Her lips trembled as though she wanted to say something, but the words wouldn’t come. Wilfred noticed the shock in her expression and let out a faint, bitter smile before continuing. “In that dark, endless hell, I was subjected to all kinds of drug experiments every day. My body and mind were pushed to the brink, treated as nothing more than a tool. My life and death were entirely in their hands.” A sharp pang shot through Karina’s chest as she listened. She couldn’t begin to imagine the suffering Wilfred had endured. “How did you escape?” she managed to ask, her voice barely above a whisper. Wilfred’s gaze grew distant, his eyes clouded with memories. “There was a rare moment of carelessness during a transfer. I seized the opportunity with everything I had left and escaped. After that, I hid my identity, pouring all my effort into studying medici
Instead of heading out to eat, Wilfred decided to head home. It was the weekend, and with Mrs. Santos off-duty, they could cook for themselves. The fridge had just enough ingredients left for a proper meal. Karina pulled out an unopened carton of cream and called toward the living room, “Do you like cream of mushroom soup?” A response came from Wilfred, and with his approval, she got to work preparing the ingredients. The dishes she planned weren’t particularly complicated, so in no time, the table was filled with food. After all the bustling in the kitchen, Karina almost forgot the reason she had come in the first place. But seeing Wilfred pick up his utensils brought her back to her thoughts. “I wanted to ask you about your sleepwalking last night. Mrs. Santos said it happens often,” she said, her tone filled with concern. Karina had known Wilfred for quite a while now, and their relationship was fairly close. Yet she had never heard about his sleepwalking, not from hi
Yvette’s expression lit up with the thrill of gossip. “Who are we talking about? Is it Dr. Wilfred?” “It’s about a friend,” Karina lied smoothly, her face betraying nothing. Yvette’s face immediately screamed, “Yeah, right.”“Come on, at least come up with a better excuse. That ‘it’s for a friend’ line is so overused it’s practically expired,” she teased, before shifting gears. “Alright, spill the details. And don’t leave anything out. I want to know everything. Not just for gossip but to help you figure things out.” With no other choice, Karina recounted Wilfred’s hot-and-cold behavior toward her. After hearing the story, Yvette leaned back with a sharp hiss, as if processing something heavy. “I think your, uh, friend’s boyfriend might just have something he’s keeping to himself. Maybe there’s a reason he doesn’t want her to know.” Karina’s brows furrowed slightly. “Think about it,” Yvette continued. “If he really didn’t care, would he have been so quick to catch he
Karina stood, but as she took a step, her foot caught on something, and she nearly fell. Before she could hit the ground, Wilfred caught her. The unexpected gesture left Karina more confused than ever. If he was so cold and distant moments ago, why would he help her like this? She wasn’t the only one caught off guard. Wilfred himself was surprised by his reaction. It had been pure instinct. The moment he saw her about to fall, he moved to catch her without a second thought. It was as if his heart acted faster than his words ever could. Before she could ask anything, Wilfred released her quickly, his demeanor detached once more, as if trying to explain away his actions. “Regardless, thank you for earlier.” He hesitated briefly before adding, “Do you have a way to get home? I can drive you if it’s inconvenient.” The warmth Karina felt moments ago instantly turned cold. She forced a bitter smile. “No need. I’ll get home on my own.” She laughed at herself inwardly, a s