She knocked on the door."Come in!" came Nash's voice, neither warm nor cold.Entering the room, Nina saw Nash busy on his computer. Lately, he had been preoccupied with preparations for the upcoming gala, and she wondered what more he had to attend to after returning home from work.Nash glanced up at her. "What's the matter?"Nina replied, "Tomorrow is the annual gala of the York Corporation, and I’m planning to attend."This caught Nash's attention, and his gaze focused on her."I recall you don't enjoy such events."Indeed, she didn't fancy attending such events, finding them too attention-seeking and noisy. Previously, she didn't see the necessity, but now she did.Nina smiled and said, "People change.""Very well," Nash said. "I'll have someone prepare a gown for you.""No need, I've already chosen one."Nina was prepared, and she added with a smirk, "On your card."With that, Nina left.Nash hesitated for a moment.However, spending his money brought a hint of amus
There was quite a commotion, loud enough for everyone to hear.Penelope chuckled, sipping her lemon water, seemingly pleased with the outcome. Although she hadn't interacted with Miranda directly, she was aware of the recent competition for her resources, which left an impression. In the entertainment industry, such battles were nothing new. Miranda still attempted to cut ahead of Penelope in line for her custom-made gown, which seemed a bit excessive. It was satisfying for Penelope to see Miranda fail to get what she wanted.The store manager was inside. Even if they managed to produce the dress today, which seemed unlikely, Miranda probably wouldn't be satisfied. She would end up bearing the brunt of the blame. "We've done our best...""What kind of effort did you put in? Everyone else is dressed perfectly, but only Miranda's gown isn't done. You're doing this on purpose!""You're just accusing me."Hearing them arguing, Miranda came out with a smile, asking in a friendly tone
Miranda's assistant caught wind of the news and whispered in her ear, "Miranda, I heard it's Nina. She's the one causing trouble!"Her gaze automatically shifted towards Nina.As she chatted with Yvonne, comparing the gowns they held, Miranda felt a surge of annoyance. She approached her. "Nina, so it's you. You knew I would be attending the gala and wanted to embarrass me?"Seeing Nina getting ready for makeup and dressing up, Miranda sneered, "Trying to compete with me? Or trying to catch Nash's eye?"Nina sat in a chair while Yvonne's makeup artist styled her hair. She caught a glimpse of Miranda's arrogant expression in the mirror. Only in her presence would Miranda reveal her true colors.Nina didn't look up, responding calmly, "You have quite the imagination. I dress up to please myself.""Quite the self-righteous one, aren't you? Why did you disrupt my dress alteration?" Miranda retorted. "It bothered you when you overheard Ruby and Liz discussing alterations for my dress
This took everyone by surprise. It sent chills down their spines and was a real eye-opener for Penelope."Nina, are you out of your mind? You slapped Miranda!" her colleague exclaimed, shocked.Miranda tilted her head slightly, stunned for several seconds.Nina replied, "You slapped Yvonne; it's only fair I return the favor!"The assistant, startled, immediately pushed Nina away. "Are you crazy? How dare you hit Miranda..."Nina retaliated by slapping the assistant back. "You lack manners. With such a troublemaking assistant like you, it's no wonder Miranda got slapped!""You... Nina, you..."The assistant couldn't articulate her anger as Nina remained unfazed.Miranda covered her face, tears streaming down, and said softly, "Ruby, let it go. We can't afford to provoke her...""Who can't afford to provoke her?"Sally rushed over in a fit of rage at the sight of Miranda being slapped. "Nina, it's you again. This time, I didn't make a mistake, did I? You are bullying Miranda be
Nash's sudden announcement left everyone in the room stunned for a considerable time.Married?Was this something they were supposed to hear?Miranda's face instantly drained of color, her eyes welling up with tears as she fixed her gaze on Nash. It felt as though a sharp blade had pierced her heart, her hands instinctively balling into fists.He actually admitted to being married in front of so many people!This dealt a heavy blow to her, nearly causing her to lose her balance, but fortunately, Sally beside her managed to support her.Nina glanced up at Nash once more, her hands tightening involuntarily. She didn't know what he was thinking or why he would admit it in front of so many people.It left her feeling a bit confused.She couldn't react for a moment, feeling nervous at the same time.What came to mind were the words Nash had said on the night of their marriage, that if anyone found out, she would pay the price.It all felt surreal.Others were stunned for several
Miranda despised the fact that Nina had snatched her beloved away from her. Despite all she had done for Nash, why was it Nina who reaped the benefits?Sally handed her a tissue and gently wiped away her tears. "Miranda, just be patient and keep your composure. In the end, everything will fall into place for you."Sally offered Miranda another dose of solace. She had to endure; eventually, everything would be hers. Miranda's eyes turned cold once more.---"Nina, did you see that? Nash publicly humiliated Miranda!" Yvonne chuckled. "It was so satisfying! Did you see her expression? She was so jealous! If it weren't for your mother-in-law supporting her, she might have fallen over!"With this spectacle today, Miranda has been disgraced. With so many people watching, let's see how she tries to spin this lie!"And you know what? I don't think Nash is that bad after all. At least he's standing up for you!"The fact that he stood up for Nina in front of so many people, admitting to b
Nina was taken aback by this. She lifted her head once more, unable to believe it. He had never praised her like this before. What was happening today?Locking eyes with Nash, Nina asked, "Really?"Nash reached out, gently stroking her hair. "Are you lacking confidence now?"Encountering a different demeanor from him, Nina felt a bit uneasy, but she didn't want to admit it. "Of course not.""You look beautiful tonight, very fitting for you," Nash said, wrapping his arm around her waist. Nina took a few steps forward, nestling into his embrace."I hate to let you out to meet people," Nash said in a husky voice.His warm breath fell on her face, tantalizing and intriguing. Nina's cheeks flushed, and she pushed him away. "Stop goofing around. Since you said it's good-looking, then it must be good-looking."She smiled faintly.Nash's gaze softened, and he lowered his head again. "Why is it that when I say it's good-looking, it is?"Looking up, Nina saw the flicker of stars in his
"Mr. York," omeone approached with a greeting, then glanced at Nina standing next to him. "So, it's Nina. You really know how to keep your beauty under wraps. You look stunning today, I'm genuinely impressed!"The individual then extended their hand for a shake with Nina."Thanks for the kind words. It's all about the magic of makeup, though. Not quite on par with your companion," Nina responded with her usual professional demeanor, promptly reciprocating the handshake with a smile.But Nash stepped in, saying, "No need to be so formal tonight."Nina withdrew her hand once more.The person didn't seem bothered, just teasingly remarked, "Looks like Mr. York is quite protective of his little secretary."Meanwhile, nearby, another conversation was underway."Check it out, Mr. York's companion is actually his secretary. I thought it would be someone else!" Penelope's assistant smirked, deliberately making the comment. "I'd say a secretary's position is more powerful than some people
Jamie struggled desperately to free herself from Ben’s grip, but it was futile. Ben watched her attempts with a mix of frustration and curiosity. Beyond her anger and resistance, Jamie showed no other emotions. Yet, according to Caden, she had risked everything to obtain the recording. His mother had also confirmed it was Jamie who had handed it over. Still, she had never used it to threaten him. Ben’s voice dripped with sarcasm as he stared her down. “What’s your angle, Jamie? You risked so much to get that recording, you ignored your son’s safety, and now you’re here telling me to take care of your sister and build a happy life with her? Are you really that noble?” His sharp, icy gaze bore into her, as though he wanted to rip her apart piece by piece. Jamie hadn’t expected Ben to know the truth, but it didn’t matter. She had done what she felt was right and had no intention of using it against him. “My sister is carrying your child, and the two of you are engaged
Ben didn’t respond, drinking in brooding silence. Just as Hunter was about to press further, Nash shot him a glance that made him hold his tongue. Ben drank heavily, while Nash and Quincy eventually excused themselves, and Caleb hurried off to handle work. In the end, it was just Ben and Hunter left in the private lounge. Hunter patted Ben on the shoulder. “If you can’t forget her, then maybe it’s time to accept her. Even if things don’t turn out as expected, as long as you’ve done your best and have a clear conscience, that’s enough. You’re the one building a life with her, so why get hung up on something so trivial?” He was referring to Jamie’s past. And if Ben really wanted to count, he was her first man.But no man could truly tolerate betrayal.What Ben couldn’t get past wasn’t Jamie’s past, but her abandonment and the way she had betrayed him.“I’m done talking about Jamie,” Ben said coldly. “I’ll settle the tab. You stay and enjoy yourself. I’m heading home.”
Ben did not reply and left without looking back. True to his word, he wasn’t going to see Jamie or Winnie. Instead, he arranged to meet Nash and the others at the most exclusive club in the city. However, when Ben arrived, Nash was busy on a call, Quincy was glued to his phone, and Hunter and Caleb were drinking quietly. Ben, already agitated, couldn’t hide his irritation. “You two, it’s rare we get together, and this is how you spend your time? Do you ever get tired of it?”He took a sip of his own drink, frustration bubbling as thoughts of Jamie occupied his mind. Quincy, sprawled casually on the couch, grinned. “Tired? Never. You don’t know what you’re missing. It’s pure bliss.” “I used to think love and relationships were just a burden,” Quincy continued, his expression turning soft. “But now I’ve realized, there’s nothing better in this world.” Since reconnecting with Lydia, Quincy’s perspective on life had shifted entirely. Traveling the world hand-in-hand with
Ben’s lips pressed into a thin line. He didn’t know how to describe what he was feeling at that moment. The Jamie he knew was someone who could easily abandon their relationship for money. He had even done a paternity test on Jamie’s child, confirming there was no biological connection between them. Now, she had gone to such lengths for him. Was this her conscience finally surfacing? Ben didn’t want to dwell on it. “Your grandmother is innocent. Don’t worry, I’ll take care of her situation,” he said. “Thank you.” Caden lowered his head in gratitude. Ben nodded slightly and walked past him without another word. ……After leaving, Ben returned home to find Mrs. Lucas waiting for him, ready to perform a series of superstitious gestures to "clear away bad energy." He went along with her routine without protest. Once she was finished, he got into his car. “Who did you reach out to that managed to get me released so quickly?” Ben asked, recalling Caden’s earlier
It was a battle between good and evil.“Charlie is already sick, and your sister never thinks about you. So why should you care about her? Besides, people who don’t look out for themselves are doomed to fail!”Evil began to chip away at her reason.Justice pushed back. “No, he’s just a child.”But evil whispered again. “Winnie, if you don’t take steps to protect yourself, do you want to see your own child disappear?”Winnie couldn’t bear the thought of losing her child. Over the years, she had worked hard and sacrificed so much, yet Jamie had never acknowledged her efforts. Instead, Jamie had gotten entangled with Ben, even on the day of her engagement party. Ben was her fiancé, and her child was Ben’s child! Yes, only her child had the right to call Ben “Daddy.” This thought filled Winnie’s eyes with an icy determination.……Meanwhile, with the recording as evidence, the prosecutor’s office and the police launched an investigation into Caden’s actions. The invest
Mrs. Lucas showed no sympathy as she watched Jamie break down in tears. Her only concern was securing the recording to help clear Ben’s name.But Jamie’s emotional state made Mrs. Lucas suspicious. “Why does everything line up so perfectly?” she questioned.Jamie raised her hand as if swearing an oath. “I ran into Caden while working a part-time job, and the recording was pure luck. Mrs. Lucas, I’d never joke about my own son’s safety.”Jamie’s firm tone, coupled with her tear-streaked face, carried an air of desperation. As a woman and a mother herself, Mrs. Lucas could read Jamie’s emotions clearly. But deep inside, a new thought began to form. If Jamie’s child were gone, it would break Jamie completely. If she were to lose her mind or even die from the grief, how could Ben possibly continue to hold on to any lingering feelings for her?Mrs. Lucas’s resolve hardened as an idea took root.“Give me the recording,” she said, her tone steady. “I’ll make sure something is done t
“You don’t need to give me anything. Just don’t hurt my family. That’s my only request,” Caden said firmly.The masked man let out a low chuckle. “Someone who doesn’t love money or power? How rare.”Caden’s expression remained impassive. “Just promise me this, and from now on, don’t come looking for me. I won’t help you with anything again.”The masked man clearly had no intention of letting Caden off so easily.In the next moment, he slid a list across the table. “Get these people released for me, or I’ll expose how you framed a top lawyer. What do you think? Will the public forgive you? Will the government?”Jamie, recording everything from the side, was satisfied with what she had captured. She turned to leave quietly, but before she could slip out, Caden spotted her.“Jamie? What are you doing here?”The masked man’s gaze turned icy.Jamie reacted quickly and bolted for the door, running as fast as she could.She didn’t know how she had ended up in the middle of Caden’s de
After speaking, Winnie ran off. Jamie didn’t chase her. She understood that Winnie couldn’t accept this, and if their roles were reversed, neither could she. Right now, she had to find Mrs. Lucas. She flagged down a taxi and directed it to the Lucas family estate. It was her second time coming here. The first time had been by Mrs. Lucas’s invitation, a meeting designed to show her the opulence of the Lucas family estate and to offer her a million to leave Ben. Jamie had sworn then that she would never set foot there again. But today, she was here for Winnie. At the gate, the security guard stopped her. “Who are you?” “My name is Jamie Lewis,” she said calmly. “Tell Mrs. Lucas I’m here to see her. She’ll agree to meet me.” Jamie hadn’t chased after Winnie because she wanted to give her some time to process everything. But she couldn’t leave Winnie alone for too long. Time was of the essence. Seeing her composure, the security guard decided to pass along
Although the van slowed down, Winnie was suddenly shoved out, hitting the ground hard. The physical pain was intense, but it couldn’t compare to the ache in her heart.She watched as the van sped away into the distance. Trembling, she pulled out her phone and called Jamie.“Jamie, what are you doing right now? I need to ask you something in person.” Winnie’s tone made it clear that she knew something was wrong.Hearing her voice, Jamie immediately sensed the weight of the situation. Winnie must have found out the truth. There was no way Jamie could focus on work until they cleared the air.Without hesitation, Jamie dropped what she was doing and rushed to meet her.When she arrived, she found Winnie sitting on the curb, her face blank and her eyes hollow.Jamie ran over quickly. “Winnie, what happened?”At the sound of her voice, Winnie lifted her head. A bitter smile played at the corners of her mouth. “Don’t you know what happened, my dear sister?”She deliberately emphasized