Nina nodded. "Makes sense."Yvonne said, "Then let's first see if your boss can fulfill his promise as agreed. If not, we'll follow the steps I suggested. Anyway, once you get divorced, you're out, and who cares about the rest.""Okay."They would cross that bridge when they came to it.---Nash headed to the York Corporation."Nina, could you get me a cup of coffee?"After dealing with a stack of documents, Nash appeared somewhat fatigued. In a moment of absentmindedness, he instinctively called out, pinching his brows, only to realize the situation.Nina was not present at the York Corporation. She was currently with Yvonne.The office felt unusually quiet without Nina around. Yet, Nash found himself oddly expecting her presence.In a matter of seconds, however, he caught a whiff of rich coffee aroma, tinged with a hint of rose petals."Mr. York, this is your favorite coffee."A respectful voice sounded by his side as Serene approached, holding the coffee.Serene was a b
The smile faded from Nash's lips."Bang!"Serene fell heavily to the ground, looking somewhat disheveled and genuinely in pain. At that moment, tears welled up in her eyes.However, all Serene could do was apologize to Nash, "I'm sorry, Mr. York, I seem to have twisted my foot. I... I really should be more careful!""You really should!" Nash did not pay much attention to Serene. "With your little tricks, do you think you can really hook me?"Serene was speechless. Nash saw right through her. But of course, Serene could not admit it now. "Mr. York, you've misunderstood me. I just accidentally spilled the coffee when I fell. Look, it's because the heels of the shoes I bought are too low-quality."Serene's voice was somewhat hoarse, and her whole demeanor seemed embarrassed. Her shoes' heels had indeed come off.Nash did not even glance at them.His voice was cold. "It's good not to have such thoughts, but do you think this is acceptable?""I'm sorry, Mr. York. I know I'm your
From then on, Leo would always show up at her art exhibitions and even buy her paintings at high prices, among other things. Doing all this despite her disinterest, that was what you would call obsession!Nina was at a loss for words at the moment. Just then, her phone chimed with a notification. She and Yvonne both reached for their phones simultaneously. It was a message from their university class group chat, sent by Mike."Next Monday, our classmate, Peter Lark, is hosting a banquet at the Scarlet Leaf Bistro to celebrate his son's first celebration, and it's also our class reunion. Hope everyone can make it.""Kind of absurd, isn't it? Why doesn't Peter make the announcement himself? Why does Mike have to do it?" Yvonne quipped beside her.At that moment, many in the group chat began to question this as well. Mike replied, "Our class president is currently in the hospital and not in a convenient position. I organized this on his behalf. Everyone, if you have any concerns, let'
Nina chuckled, "There's no affection between Nash and me. Even if you get rid of Miranda, someone else will still appear."Yvonne's expression darkened. "Then I won't say anything."The nanny did not take long to cook, but Nina did not eat much and felt drowsy.The next day, Nina and Yvonne went to the art exhibition. Yvonne was already a somewhat famous artist, but even disguised, she was still recognized by someone.The crowd was overwhelming. Yvonne had no choice but to let go of Nina. "Nina, you go back first."With that, Yvonne quickly walked away. Without Yvonne, Nina felt bored alone there.Unexpectedly, at the exit, she saw Nash walking towards her.Their eyes met, and for a moment, it felt like time stood still but Nina quickly snapped out of it. She did not say anything and tried to walk around him, but Nash blocked her path."Nina, are you avoiding me?" he asked softly."No. I just realized I haven't been working lately, so I shouldn't stay by your side," Nina repli
Seeing Nina in this state, Nash could not help but furrow his brows. "Didn’t you go to the hospital for a check-up?""Yeah, they gave me some medicine and I'm taking it."A shiver ran down Nina's spine, her throat constricted. She avoided meeting Nash's piercing black eyes, afraid he might see through her.Nash's frown deepened. "It's been a day or two since you went. What did they prescribe? Let me ask Caleb. If it doesn't work, I'll have him bring you something else."The doctor prescribed calcium and folic acid tablets, which Nina had already swapped out. If she showed them to Caleb, being a doctor, he'd spot the switch right away!Nina had to change the subject. "It's only been a day or two, like you said. It's not that quick. And didn’t you give me a box of stomach medicine last time?"Nash recalled.Seeing Nash's silence, Nina swiftly placed the coffee on his desk. "This time I didn't add rose petals. See if you like it. Oh, I just remembered, I need to go to the room to t
Nina was stunned.Nash had never been this gentle with her before. If it weren't for the three years in the agreement and the presence of Miranda, she might have reignited the desire to stay by his side because of his actions and words.Nina nodded. "I know Caleb won't bite, but I really didn't find any major issues. Nash, why don't you trust me? Do I look sick to you?"Or do you think I look pregnant?"This time, Nina took the initiative.Although Nash had mentioned it before, she had always denied it. This time, she brought it up first, hoping Nash would dispel the idea.Nash did not respond.However, his gaze fell on her again because of Nina's words.He had noticed she had gained weight recently. But these days, he felt her complexion was not as good as before, and she seemed a bit thinner."I'll have the helper make you something delicious to replenish your energy later. I've made an appointment. You'll stay here for now," Nash said slowly, his voice husky.Nina nodded.
She whipped up oatmeal, flipped pancakes, and even simmered some chicken soup. Once everything was done, the helper assisted in setting it all out on the outdoor dining table. Nash happened to descend from upstairs, and Nina called out to him, "Come on, breakfast's ready."In that moment, sunlight draped Nina in a beautiful golden hue, making her appear radiant. Nash felt like everything was right again, as if they were back to their old selves. But it was only fleeting because after breakfast, they had to head to the district court to schedule an appointment.Nash was not really feeling breakfast, but he could not avoid it. Nina was a skilled cook, and everything she made was delicious and comforting.After breakfast, they headed out together. Nash did not call for the driver or Quincy. He drove himself, with Nina in the passenger seat, just like the day they got their marriage certificate. Though the weather was not as good that day.At the district court, there were not many peo
Nina was not pleased, but she had no choice. "Yes, I'm very happy," she replied, though her words did not match her true emotions.Nash had already seen through everything. "Your idea of a better method involves hiring a lawyer, doesn't it?" Nina did not deny it. But after a moment of silence, she told Nash, "Mr. York, our paths diverge here." She was going to consult with a lawyer. Nash sensed her intentions and was not about to be so kind as to give her a ride. He simply remarked, "York Corporation has a lot on its plate.""Oh," Nina responded tersely, deciding not to say anything more.At York Corporation, one went to the CEO's office while the other returned to their workstation. Serene was taken aback to see Nina. "Nina, I thought you weren't coming in today."Nina's attention was drawn by Serene's voice. Serene looked sharp in her professional attire, especially given Mr. York's favoritism toward her. Moreover, Nina had brought Serene in, fully aware she would event
The Stone family wasn’t just greedy. They were relentless, always pushing boundaries and expecting more.Karina sighed. “It’s not that I can’t stand up to them, but sometimes it feels unnecessary. There are things that just can’t be explained.”Wilfred didn’t press further. “Pack your things and come with me. I have to travel for a project negotiation that will help our hospital continue expanding.” He was determined to firmly establish himself in Birkham, not just for his professional ambitions but also because Nina was there. Wilfred wanted to protect her and mentor his students, ensuring they could safeguard Nina’s children in the future. “But didn’t we already promise a patient that we’d perform surgery?” Karina asked, a little hesitant. “I’ll arrange for someone else to handle it.” While Karina might have been the better choice for the surgery, Wilfred had other options, including pulling Caleb in at the last minute. “Alright,” Karina replied. Since Wilfred had
Sera blocked Karina’s path, her expression cold and disdainful. “You think you can just use that money to brush me off? Do I look like someone who needs your measly cash?”She grabbed Karina’s arm tightly, her nails biting into her skin. “Let me make this clear. If you don’t do what I’ve asked, I’ll ruin you, Karina. Completely.”Karina’s fear was palpable, but the thought of endless torment and manipulation was even more terrifying. She met Sera’s fierce gaze with a calm, unyielding stare. “Do whatever you want. But let me remind you, the money you gave me? I’m willing to go down with you if it comes to that. My life might not be worth much, but you’ve worked so hard to get into Wilfred’s hospital. Are you really willing to throw that all away?”Sera faltered. She had worked incredibly hard to get where she was. Countless sleepless nights studying, memorizing every detail of her medical texts, and enduring the challenges of difficult patients had pushed her to the brink. She often
Sera’s gaze was so sharp it felt like it could pierce through Karina. Karina hadn’t expected her momentary greed to create such a mess. If she couldn’t stay a doctor, she would have no source of income, and her life would spiral further out of control. “Please, don’t do this. Tell me what you want, and I’ll keep helping you. Maybe… I could spike his drink for you again, or set up another opportunity,” Karina said, grabbing Sera’s hand out of desperation. Sera clearly wasn’t short on money. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have been able to give Karina such a large sum back then.All she wanted now was to secure her position at the hospital.Sera pulled her hand away, a mocking smile on her face. “Set up another opportunity? Do you think Wilfred would fall for it twice? Do you take him for an idiot, Dr. Norman?” Wilfred wasn’t an idiot, and ordinary drugs didn’t seem to affect him much.Karina felt utterly helpless. One wrong step had led to another, and now she had no idea how to
“Starting today, you’ll officially resume your position as my assistant. I trust you’ll adapt quickly,” Wilfred said firmly. Karina’s eyes lit up with a hint of surprise. “Dr. Wilfred, really? I’ll do my best to fulfill the responsibilities of the assistant role.” Wilfred stood up and walked over to her, giving her a reassuring pat on the shoulder. “Familiarize yourself with the current work schedule and the relevant materials. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. I have confidence in you.” Karina hesitated, a trace of worry crossing her face. “But… I’m not sure this is a good idea.” Wilfred already had an assistant. If Karina agreed to take the position, wouldn’t that make her a target for trouble from his former assistant? And then there were all the people at the hospital who were infatuated with Wilfred. Lately, she had already been spending more time with him, drawing enough attention as it was. If she officially became his assistant, she’d surely
Back home, the first thing Karina did was take a shower, cranking the water temperature to the highest setting as if that was the only way to wash away the grim memories of the night.She scrubbed her arms fiercely, the spots where those repulsive men had touched her. Even through her clothes, the thought made her feel sick. Again and again, she lathered herself with soap until her skin turned slightly red, but no matter how hard she tried, the discomfort in her heart lingered.After her shower, Karina changed into clean pajamas and sat on the edge of her bed, unable to sleep. Her gaze fell on her phone. She hesitated for a moment before sending a text to Wilfred.“Dr. Wilfred, I’m truly grateful for your help tonight. I’ll never forget it.”After sending the message, she set her phone down, hugged her knees, and curled up on the bed. Returning to the hospital had always been her dream, but now she worried whether she could truly meet expectations and not let Wilfred down.As she
The men exchanged uneasy glances, hesitating for a moment before reluctantly mumbling, “Sorry,” to Karina. Wilfred watched their retreating figures with thinly veiled disgust. Turning to Karina, he asked gently, “Are you okay?” Karina shook her head lightly, brushing it off. “I’m fine, Dr. Wilfred. Thank you.” Wilfred let out a soft sigh. “Come with me. You shouldn’t be working here.” Karina nodded, following him out of the private room. Wilfred guided Karina through the bustling bar. The pounding music and chaotic chatter seemed distant and muted, fading into the background as they moved. They made their way to the parking lot, where Wilfred opened the car door, carefully helping Karina into the passenger seat before getting in himself and starting the engine. As Karina buckled her seatbelt, she turned to Wilfred with a look of curiosity. “Dr. Wilfred, didn’t you say you had things to handle at the hospital? How did you get here so quickly?” Wilfred kept his ey
When Karina stepped into the room, one of the men, his gaze hazy from drink, chuckled and said, “Well, so this is the beauty they sent over?”Karina forced herself to stay calm and replied politely, “Good evening, gentlemen. Here’s the drinks you ordered.” She began placing the drinks on the table one by one, hoping to finish quickly. Before she could finish, another man grabbed her wrist and yanked her toward him. “Come, have a few drinks with us, sweetheart.”Karina’s heart raced as she pulled her hand away with force. “Sir, I’m just here to deliver your drinks. I don’t entertain guests.”The men burst into laughter. “What bar do you think you’re in? There’s no such thing as not entertaining here. Don’t play coy, sweetheart. Sit with us, and you’ll be rewarded handsomely.”Fear surged through Karina as she instinctively stepped back, trying to maintain some distance. “I’m really just here for work,” she said, her voice trembling. “Please respect me!”But the men, emboldened
The woman leaned closer to Karina, lowering her voice. “You ruined my fun. The manager and I were having a great time, and you interrupted us. You need to make it up to me.”Karina’s frustration flared. “I didn’t mean to interrupt. The door wasn’t fully closed, and I was only there to talk about resigning.”But the woman wasn’t about to let it go. “I don’t care. You need to make it up to me. Otherwise, I can’t guarantee your night will go smoothly or that you’ll get to leave this job without issues.”Anger surged through Karina. “You’re being unreasonable! I didn’t do anything wrong!”The woman sneered. “In this bar, what I say goes. If you don’t cooperate, I have plenty of ways to make sure you can’t stay.”Karina knew arguing with her in this chaotic environment would only make things worse. But the idea of being bullied like this made her seethe. Taking a deep breath, she tried to stay calm. “What do you want me to do?”The woman’s eyes gleamed with triumph. “It’s simple. Ha
A strikingly glamorous woman sat perched on the manager’s lap, the two locked in a tight embrace, passionately kissing. The scene was nothing short of intimate, their connection palpable.Karina stood awkwardly at the door, caught between stepping in and retreating. She coughed lightly, trying to get their attention.Hearing the sound, the manager gently pushed the woman aside and turned toward the door. His expression showed no embarrassment; instead, he appeared slightly annoyed. “Karina, why didn’t you knock before coming in?”Karina forced a smile, her discomfort evident. “The door wasn’t fully closed. I didn’t mean to interrupt. I’m here to talk about resigning.”The manager adjusted his clothes, gesturing for the woman to sit aside. He raised his brows slightly. “Resign? Why the sudden decision to quit?”Karina bit her lip nervously. “It’s for personal reasons. I really can’t continue working here.”The manager leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. A f