Upon hearing this, Caleb immediately sensed an opportunity. "We're in the Chroma Room 409. Hurry up and come over. I'm on duty tonight, so I have to leave early.""Alright."Even if Caleb had not mentioned being on duty, since the call was made to her, she could not just ignore it when it came to Nash.Hearing the busy tone on the phone and realizing that Nina had hung up, Caleb slipped the phone back into Nash's pocket, giving a knowing look to Hunter and Ben before they all left.But as soon as they left, Nash opened his eyes. His deep black gaze showed no signs of drunkenness.---Nina arrived at the Chroma Room an hour later. It took her an hour to get from Nash's place to the Chroma Room by taxi, but she encountered traffic along the way, causing delays.Having been Nash's secretary for seven years, Nina was no stranger to such places. However, as she walked down the corridor, she encountered a man stumbling toward her.His eyes were squinted, clearly indicating he was dru
The man's rugged voice suddenly boomed from across the room, "Damn it, where did this little pretty boy come from, trying to play the hero here? I'll teach you a lesson!"The voice grew closer and closer.The man charged forward, his attack fierce.However, Nash simply lifted his foot, and in an instant, the man went flying out."Bang!" The man landed heavily on the ground. Nash wrapped an arm around Nina while dialing a number, "Hunter, get a few guys to deal with the scumbag at the door of the room, and tell Caleb to bring the first aid kit to the room." Leaving this message, Nash led Nina into the room. With Nash's swift actions and his authoritative tone while making the call, the man realized Nash was not to be trifled with. Instinctively, the man bolted, but he could not escape. Hunter, Caleb, and Ben had all come together after some effort. As Caleb had used Nash's phone to call Nina, it was fine if Nash did not join them. However, since the three of them had pla
"Thank you." Setting aside all that, it was a fact that Nash helped her.Nash was already agitated and drinking did not diminish it a bit. Just now, the words from that man undoubtedly acted as a catalyst.And now Nina said thank you to him?Nash's thin lips lifted coldly. "Courtesy demands reciprocity, the word 'thank you' is unnecessary."A heaviness settled in Nina's throat. He was just repaying her favor.That was fine. There would be no more indebtedness in the future.Nina pursed her lips, then, after a moment of silence, she finally picked up Nash's words, "Are we going home now?""Just wait for me.""Okay." Nina did not dwell on it.Nash placed the ice cubes in Nina's hand, his large palm gripping hers, "Keep it on for a bit. Since you're still here, you're still a reflection of the York family." His tone was devoid of emotion.Nina nodded. "Got it."He rescued her because she was his wife and his secretary, both roles representing the York family's image. And also,
Nina was washing her face, using a lot of facial cleanser. She even used hand soap and body wash. The air was filled with a faint scent of gardenia, which was the perfume scent Nina liked. Wasn't Nina doing this to mask his scent? What could possibly linger on his body? The pungent smell of cigarette, the strong smell of alcohol, and the bloody smell from that man. Nina froze and she quickly explained, "You're reading too much into it. You know why we're getting divorced."The time had come and he never truly wanted her to stay anyway. If she did not leave, was she supposed to continue witnessing the development between him and Miranda? Nash's lips curled into a sneer. He knew all too well. She was returning to Zac, to Scott's side.Nash reminisced about earlier today, Nina seated beside Scott by the flower bed, their laughter filling the air. Especially Nina's expression at that moment. She seemed so calm but since her return, she had not uttered a single word to him.
Ben's words were slow and clear. Nina was dumbfounded. In two and a half months, she would be four months along, visibly pregnant. By then, Nash would be even less likely to let her go. However, Nina quickly realized something. Her lips curled into a smirk as she said, "Should I address you as Nash's friend?" Ben's eyes narrowed slightly, but he quickly smiled. "Miss Walker has sharp eyes." Although Ben appeared nonchalant on the surface, he admired Nina inwardly. She had seen through him with just one glance. "Since you won't handle my divorce case, I'll take my leave," Nina said, turning to leave. After she left, Ben called Nash. Nash was still asleep, having drunk too much. He was awoken by the noise, his entire body aching. Hearing Nash's hoarse voice, Ben chuckled. "Still sleeping? Your wife came to see me early in the morning, and she saw through my identity. I think you should pay more attention!" Nash's exhaustion vanished from his pupils, replaced by a coldness
Stella walked up to Nina with a smile on her face, a stark contrast to yesterday's demeanor. Nina could only respond with a smile, "No problem, Cynthia, come and greet our business partner."Even though Stella's attitude had improved significantly since yesterday, Nina still wanted to introduce Cynthia to her. Despite Stella's inner displeasure, she remained composed outwardly. "Is Nina training new staff recently?" Stella inquired, noticing the arrival of both Serene and now Cynthia. With Nash still nowhere in sight, Stella was growing increasingly dissatisfied, but she restrained herself from expressing it.Nina replied, "Is Miss Jasper worried about delays in our cooperation? Rest assured. All agreements will be reviewed personally by Mr. York.""Then let's discuss matters at the York Corporation. Nina, what are your thoughts on the proposed cooperation plan?" Stella redirected the conversation.After Nina left, Stella learned that Nina had been Nash's secretary for seven year
Nina was also caught off guard by Stella's struggle to keep hold of the tea cup."Miss Jasper, you've misunderstood. I don't hold grudges. It's just that you didn't hold it steady yourself," Nina replied calmly. She met Stella's dark gaze, and a hint of coldness flickered in her own eyes."I didn't hold it steady? Am I unable to even hold a cup of tea? Mr. York, I approached you with the utmost sincerity for cooperation, but your secretary is acting so arrogantly?" Stella retorted with two questions in a row. In her final sentence, she looked directly at Nash.Nash stood nearby, his gaze cool with a hint of disdain. "Should I have Miss Jasper review the surveillance footage?" he added.He understood Nina's character well. Nina would not bother holding a grudge against someone who countered her. Until she quit, she would not slack off but instead would fulfill her duties diligently.Stella's behavior was evidently aimed at defaming Nina. Indeed, after Mr. York's comment, Stella's f
Stella's expression stiffened. "Mr. York, there was a bit of unpleasantness between your secretary and me before, and just now, I believe at least seven out of ten people would think it was deliberate."And besides, do you really not remember who I am?" Stella's lack of control over her emotions grew with each word.Nash's gaze was devoid of warmth, radiating a chilling sternness. "I don't need you to remind me of what kind of person my secretary is. Even if it were true, what difference would it make?"Nash's words silenced Stella outright. His expression, along with the fact that he did not respond to her final question, clearly indicated he had no recollection of her at all.Stella felt a mixture of anger, frustration, and embarrassment.Suddenly, Nina's voice cut in, "Miss Jasper, here are the ice cubes for you." Nina remained calm, unaffected by the tension.Glancing at Nash's cold demeanor and the oppressive atmosphere in his gaze, it was evident that unless Stella apologiz
The moment Vera heard her assistant’s words, her expression darkened. Her previously calm tone turned firm. “If that’s the case, I understand. But I still have to go. This is my responsibility, and no one else can handle it.” If she didn’t take the lead, the other party would only grow bolder. However, the moment she glanced at the name on the negotiation list, she couldn’t help but frown. Because the person she was supposed to meet wasn’t just anyone. It was Helena Xander. Vera had encountered her before—back when her relationship with Caleb hadn’t yet escalated. Even then, Helena had openly mocked her, saying that since Caleb had been Luna’s devoted lapdog for years, he should know his place and never overstep. She had also thrown a few sharp words at Vera, telling her to recognize her own status—as if warning her that getting involved would only bring trouble. Back then, Vera hadn’t taken it seriously. She never thought she would cross paths with the
“Alright, enough of this. If you’re serious about investigating, you’ll need proper psychological evaluations,” Caleb said nonchalantly.“The best way to assess something like this is through clinical observation—watch for behavioral inconsistencies, memory gaps, or personality shifts. If you can, gather video footage of his daily life. That’s the only way to get a clearer picture. Otherwise, it’s just speculation.”Caleb made the remark casually, then swiftly issued a dismissal.“You came all the way here just to mess with me? What about your own situation? How’s that going?” Caleb’s sarcasm was dry and pointed. Hunter let out a long sigh. “What else could it be? Business as usual. Compared to others, I’m probably the only one with enough patience for this mess.” He was, of course, referring to his ongoing battle with Liam. Caleb gave him a small nod. “Alright, you should get going now. I need to rest. Don’t loiter around here.” Without hesitation, he waved his hand
Vera forced an awkward smile at Hunter before quickly retreating back into the bathroom to change. Hunter, watching her leave, couldn't help but smirk. “You’re really living the good life, huh?” he teased. “Didn’t expect you to have such luck.” Caleb rolled his eyes, clearly uninterested. “Enough with the nonsense. Why are you here? And who exactly were you talking about over the phone?” He didn’t want to entertain pointless banter, especially not about women. If he was being honest, even he couldn’t fully explain his feelings toward Luna. He wasn’t sure what was left between them—was it love, or just the remnants of something that had long turned sour? That pitiful look in her eyes earlier had shaken him. For a fleeting moment, he had wanted to pull her into his arms, to comfort her like he used to. But after so many years of being humiliated and pushed aside, he had forgotten how to even speak to her anymore. So instead, he did what was easiest—he change
Hunter spoke casually, his tone light. “Just someone, that’s all. Do you really need all these details?” Caleb was now certain of his suspicion. “Hunter, did you forget what I do for a living? I’m a doctor. If you’re asking me about this, I need to get a clear picture before I can give you an answer.” Hunter exhaled lightly. “That’s fair, but some things can’t be diagnosed right away.” Based on the information Yelena provided earlier, Hunter was only speculating about Liam. But Caleb was an expert in this area, so he specifically called to ask him.Still, explaining everything over the phone wasn’t going to work. “Forget it,” Hunter said. “This isn’t something I can explain over a call. Where are you? I’ll come over.” Caleb hesitated for a moment before glancing at Vera, who was still beside him. In the end, he gave Hunter the address to his villa. Hunter chuckled. “Haha. I’m surprised. You actually do go home to rest.” Caleb ignored the jab and tossed his p
“Call me Liam.” Before Yelena could finish speaking, Liam cut her off with a sharp, angry voice. She quickly nodded and corrected herself. “Liam, don’t worry. I’ll do exactly as you say. I’ll be good. I won’t make you angry again.” But Liam didn’t care. With a violent shove, he threw her to the ground. Yelena barely had time to brace herself before hitting the cold floor hard, pain radiating through her limbs. Liam, however, just looked down at her with a twisted grin, laughing like she was nothing more than a ridiculous joke. “You’d better learn fast,” he sneered. “And leave your hand broken for a few days—feel the pain properly.” “Alright.” Her voice was quiet, submissive. But Liam wasn’t listening. Without another glance, he turned and walked away. As she watched his retreating figure, Yelena felt a deep sense of dread rise in her throat. Liam wasn’t human. He was something far worse. Her future with him would be nothing short of hell.
Yelena had made her stance clear—her loyalty was with Hunter. But instead of being convinced, Hunter let out a sharp, mocking laugh. “You sure your loyalty is to me? Or is it just to money?” His words hit like a slap. Yelena stiffened, feeling the sting of humiliation. It was true. When she had been desperate, with nowhere left to turn, she had thrown herself at Hunter, begging him for help. If she had any other choice, if she hadn’t been pushed into a corner, she would have never given up her pride like that. Lowering her gaze, she spoke with measured calmness. “Mr. Hall, you gave me two hundred thousand dollars. You helped me when no one else did. That makes you my benefactor. And loyalty to one’s benefactor… that’s only right.” She didn’t dare meet his eyes, but her voice was firm. Hunter studied her for a moment before scoffing. “Enough with the useless talk.” His voice was cold and dismissive. “Just go back to Liam’s side and do what you’re suppose
Yelena needed to tell Hunter about this. But before she could finish, Hunter’s cold voice cut through her thoughts. She lowered her head. “This is just how I normally dress. I didn’t deliberately choose my outfit to seduce you, Mr. Hunter. Besides, your brother isn’t even interested in me.” She hesitated before adding, “That two hundred thousand…” Hunter narrowed his eyes. “What are you trying to say?” Seeing his growing impatience, Yelena clenched her fists, still looking down. “I mean exactly what I said. Any normal man wouldn’t turn down a woman who willingly throws herself at him. That night, Liam clearly said he would take me somewhere else… but when we got there, he never touched me. Ever since then, he treats me like I don’t even exist—like I’m nothing but air.” Hunter’s expression darkened instantly. “Are you implying something?” The implication in Yelena’s words was clear. She had just suggested that any normal man wouldn’t refuse a willing woman.
Vera, as a bystander, couldn’t help but feel a twinge of pity for Luna. But if she felt that way, how much worse must it be for Caleb—the man who had loved Luna for years? His pain was unimaginable. Yet, despite the hurt clawing at his chest, Caleb remained cold and unmoved. He didn’t let go. He didn’t waver at Luna’s tearful pleas. Instead, his voice was indifferent as he spoke. “Luna, women always say that late affection is the cheapest thing of all. But the same goes for men—I don’t love you the way I used to. You should go back to Simon.” And as if to drive the knife even deeper, he added, “I’m sure Simon still loves you very much.” If Luna had truly wanted Simon’s love, she would have accepted it long ago. She would have stayed by his side instead of chasing after Caleb now. In the end, men and women were the same. When they loved you, they would cherish you like a treasure. When they stopped, you became nothing more than an afterthought.
Caleb had no desire to argue with Luna any further. Instead, he turned to Vera. With just one look, she understood and stepped closer to him. Caleb wrapped an arm around her waist. “Luna,” he said calmly, “being with Vera isn’t as exhausting as being with you. Love should go both ways. I hope you can understand that.” “No!” Luna’s voice cracked. “She’s only with you because you helped her solve her problems. If you weren’t Caleb Smith, if you didn’t have the power to fix things for her, she’d be nothing!” Her dark eyes burned with resentment as she glared at Vera. Vera knew she had become Luna’s enemy—but what could she do? Caleb had already made his stance clear. Was she supposed to deny it? Pretend he didn’t just declare his feelings in front of Luna? With a steady voice, Vera replied, “Yes, I do go along with Caleb. He treats me well, and we’ve chosen to be together. We’re both single adults. What exactly is the problem?” She met Luna’s icy gaze head