Zander's POV Tawny's words fell, and I noticed Alvin's amiable smile faded away. His expression turning cold and his brows slightly furrowed. The atmosphere became awkward due to Tawny's remarks. I had never told Tawny anything about Jessica. I frowned, wanting to explain, but Jessica interjected with a wry smile on her face, addressing Tawny, "It's ridiculous. Of course, Zander might not tell you the truth." "Alright, we've been outside for too long," Alvin interjected. He led Jessica to turn and leave. Before departing, he turned his head and whispered to me, "Mr. Harrison, I have a sincere suggestion, please keep your companion in check." I looked down at Tawny. She paled, wanting to explain something, but I shook my head slightly with a frown. I raised my gaze to watch Alvin and Jessica enter the banquet hall together. "I'm sorry, Zander, I was just trying to help," Tawny exhaled softly, her tone filled with regret. I paused for a moment before responding, "Th
Jessica's POV Maxwell announced that Zander had won the "Tears of the Stars." I watched as the staff carefully placed the shimmering necklace back into the glass box and handed it to Zander. "If you really like it, I can bid on it for you." I realized my gaze on the necklace must have worried Alvin. I turned to him and smiled, "It is indeed beautiful, but I know its market value is only 1.5 million dollars." Alvin nodded, "Indeed, for five million dollars, I could have designer Hannah create a unique piece just for you." I smiled but remained silent, not wanting Alvin to know that at the start of the auction, I had noticed Tawny's excited reaction. I knew she wanted this necklace. What surprised me wasn't that Zander was competing with Alvin for it, but that Zander would spend five million on it - for Tawny. I suspected Tawny was more than just his cousin. At this thought, my heart began to tinge with bitterness. "Wow, it's stunning," Tawny whispered, just loud en
Zander's POV Jessica's figure disappeared once again into the crowds, leaving me feeling a sense of defeat. The warmth from Tawny's palm seeped through my suit jacket and onto my arm. Annoyance washed over me, and I shook off her hand. Her brows furrowed slightly before smoothing out again. She looked at me, "I know my words have put you in a dilemma. If you want to be angry, be angry with me." I remained silent, seemingly in thought. But in reality, my mind was blank. No, my mind was filled only with the complex look in Jessica's eyes before she left. The woman who should have been happy in my love is now so unfamiliar. The feeling of losing her was consuming my heart. Tawny waited for a moment, then sighed and continued, "Zander, you can't give up on dealing with Johnny, and once Jessica knows the truth, she will definitely hate you. So let go now. It's better for both of you." Hearing Johnny's name, I immediately looked at Tawny. She seemed startled by m
Jessica's POV Tawny's movements were swift and seamless, as if she had rehearsed before. I barely had time to step back and avoid the wine she splashed on herself. But Tawny seemed to think I was trying to distance myself to prove my innocence. Crying, she leaned towards me and grabbed my wrist tightly. Although we were on the second-floor terrace, it wasn't completely isolated from the other guests. Soon, a waiter approached us, his face showing surprise at the scene. He quickly handed Tawny a white napkin from his tray, "Ma'am, would you like me to help you clean up? There's a fitting room on the third floor." Tawny didn't take the napkin, allowing the red liquid to drip from her clothes and hair. Soon, the sound of other guests' footsteps approached the terrace. Tawny finally released me, wrapping her arms around herself and looking at me with tears in her eyes. If I weren't part of this, I would have applauded her exquisite acting skills. "Oh my God, what
Zander's POV Jessica's words had just fallen, and the surrounding murmurs ceased instantly, the area becoming eerily quiet. My outstretched hand dropped, knowing it was too late. My hand clenched into a tight fist. Moments ago, while I was discussing further collaboration with Jason, the owner of Glimmer Group, a banquet staff member informed me that my date, Tawny, had been bullied. As I walked, I listened to the outline of the incident and formed my judgment. Now, as Jessica pointed out the discrepancy between the wine stain on Tawny and the drink in her glass, I fully understood that Jessica wasn't the one behind this. Given my knowledge of Jessica, she wasn't the type to create such senseless drama. Observing Tawny's panicked yet desperately concealed expression, I instantly realized this was her own orchestration. I had no desire to help Tawny out of trouble. However, to the banquet attendees, she was my date, representing the Harrison Group. If this was exp
Zander's POV The misunderstanding between us seems to be growing larger. I really want to explain. But the issue with Johnny is like an insurmountable chasm, preventing me from making up my mind to fully win back Jessica's heart. I was in no mood to continue the banquet and was about to leave when I saw Jason, the CEO of Glimmer Group, approaching. "Mr. Harrison, shall we continue our previous discussion?" he said with a smile. I suppressed my annoyance and politely replied, "Jason, I'm sorry, but I'm a bit tired today. Let's discuss the collaboration maybe next time." Without waiting for his slightly disappointed expression, I turned and walked towards the main entrance. I couldn't help but look back into the banquet hall, where Jessica was gracefully conversing with other guests. Her smile was as beautiful and moving as ever, but it was no longer for me. A wave of bitterness washed over me. Once, her eyes held only me, and we were so happy and sweet together. N
Jessica's POV The business banquet returned to normal after the drama Tawny had caused. However, with Zander's departure, many guests found it boring and began to leave as well. Finally, Maxwell announced the end of the banquet. A wave of exhaustion suddenly washed over me. I followed Alvin out, dragging my heavy steps. Alvin seemed to notice my low spirits and suggested with concern, "Jessica, how about relaxing in a bar?" I forced a smile and waved my hand, saying, "No, I'd like to be alone for a bit." Back home, I went straight to the floor-to-ceiling window and stared blankly at the city shrouded in night. The neon lights flickered, unable to dispel the gloom in my heart. Involuntarily, I fell into memories. Zander's every move at the banquet constantly emerges in my mind. His indecisive attitude and repeated indulgence towards Tawny infuriated me. Yet, as my anger subsided, more of his expressions surfaced in my thoughts. His surprised gaze and the com
Jessica's POV I understood that Frank's words were a deliberate provocation. But the stubbornness and unwillingness to lose within me made me not consider retreating for a moment. I calmly accepted this seemingly impossible task. "No need to change, thank you, Frank. I will try." Isabella made snide remarks, "Frank, you shouldn't be too lenient. If she fails again, we really can't tolerate her anymore, or it would be unfair to others." Frank put on a pretentious expression and said, "I believe Jessica has the ability. We should give young people opportunities." I sneered inwardly. Their act of playing off each other was really poor. After the meeting, I returned to my desk and began to organize the materials. Not long after, Lillian from the same department came over and said: "Hi, I'm Lillian. I heard there is a newly opened café downstairs. Do you have time? Let's go get a cup together?" I was parachuted into Frank's department, and I only knew the faces and name
Jessica's POVHearing Sigmund's words, I instinctively looked at Zander, who was clenching his fists so tightly that his veins were bulging. My heart tightened. I knew Zander all too well. His intense possessiveness was like a raging fire, capable of consuming everything in its path. Sigmund's words had, without a doubt, initiated a silent challenge to Zander in front of everyone.I felt a sense of tension. If I rejected Sigmund at this moment, he would undoubtedly embarrassed in front of everyone, becoming the laughing stock of our social circle. But if I didn't reject him, I was worried about Sigmund becoming a target for Zander.For a moment, I felt caught between a rock and a hard place. Genevieve sensed my predicament and, with a smile, stepped in to help me, "Everyone knows that the best ways to forget an ex are either to let time pass or to start a new relationship. I truly hope that someone as outstanding as you can help heal the deep wounds in her heart sooner."As she spoke,
Jessica's POVI sat at the table, which seemed lively but was actually unbearable to me. The noisy and chaotic atmosphere surged towards me like a torrential tide, threatening to completely submerge me. An inexplicable sense of oppression and irritability spread in my heart like weeds.When the crowd heard the question, they instantly became a swarm of headless flies in disarray. They all clamored at me, "Although this topic is rather inappropriate, we are really curious. Jessica, how did your husband pass away?"I glanced at Zander, whose face clearly showed his displeasure. I snorted in my heart. He and I were divorced. Why should I care about his feelings? Moreover, the painful memories he brought me over the past year were like deep scars etched in my heart. How could I forget them easily?Before I could speak, Genevieve stepped in. "He was good to Jess at first, but as soon as the novelty wore off, he cheated immediately. Some women nowadays have no shame, seeing a wealthy man an
Jessica's POVAfter I spoke, Genevieve looked at me in surprise. A wry smile crept into my heart. On our way to the restroom, she couldn't stop chattering, "Did you see that annoying look on Zander's face? I really wanted to rush over and punch him hard. This man is even worse than those oranges on the streets of Los Angeles that are thrown away after being squeezed dry!"I let out a helpless chuckle."Jess, are you really planning to stay here and watch him canoodle with Tawny? You still have feelings for him in your heart, and in the end, it's you who will be hurt," Genevieve said with concern."Didn't you say that one day we would let go? Besides, we are divorced now. Can I not allow him to have a new love?" I shrugged and replied."That's true, but that woman is Tawny! How could he not know that she has always wanted to sabotage your relationship, or perhaps they had something going on before?" Genevieve speculated.Before I saw them together, I was certain that Zander wouldn't ha
Jessica's POVThe key phrase "J&Z General Hospital" from Alexander's words struck me like a bolt from the blue. I froze instantly. The classmates around me began discussing fervently."I heard this general hospital project is being prepared by Harrison Group as a gift for his beloved," one said."Mr. Harrison is known for his cold and ruthless demeanor, but it turns out he's such a passionate man at heart. J&Z, the name itself sounds like it's derived from the initials of two people's names," another chipped in."Which Mr. Harrison are they talking about?" someone asked, confused."Are you drunk? How many Harrisons in Los Angeles can afford billions? It's obviously Zander Harrison," came the reply.J&Z, a name I knew all too well. I had once told him about my dream to build a large hospital to help more patients. When Zander planned this, I had no idea, and now it seemed the hospital was meant for someone else.I wasn't sure if he had found a new love so soon, but it was clear it wasn
Jessica's POVMy conversation with Genevieve about Johnny ended without any resolution. The lack of evidence left us without a concrete conclusion. Yet, those ambiguous words hung over me like a thin veil, occasionally tugging at my heart and pulling out a thread of doubt when I least expected it.Back in Los Angeles, we resumed our normal lives and work. However, I still didn't return to my apartment. I knew Zander wouldn't wait forever, just as time wouldn't stand still.The impact of the divorce gradually faded, and I no longer wallowed in sadness as I initially did. Instead, I slowly embraced the new rhythm of life.Genevieve was always aware of my emotional shifts. Seeing me in good spirits, she excitedly suggested, "Our class president is organizing a reunion. Let's go together."Genevieve and I attended the same university, both majoring in medicine. I frowned and said, "I never practiced as a doctor for a single day. I always feel out of place at these reunions.""Most of our
Jessica's POVSunlight streamed across my face, waking me with a warm flush on my cheeks.I'd dreamt of entwining with Zander all night. Perhaps it was a sign of how long it's been since I've been intimate.Suddenly, I heard soft breathing beside me, and as I moved, aches spread throughout my body.The soreness between my legs told me this wasn't just a dream.Shit! All I could recall was drinking with Genevieve. I had no memory of how I got back. Did I sleep with a stranger after getting drunk? I propped myself up and looked over to see Zander sleeping soundly, his familiar face causing a flurry of panic in my heart.Almost reflexively, I rolled out of bed and quickly grabbed my clothes. Ignoring the aches, I stood up hastily, not even bothering with shoes, and fled the room in a panic.On the drive to work, my mind kept replaying what had just happened, filled with embarrassment and confusion.I was supposed to be drinking with Genevieve. How did Zander show up?As I neared the offi
Jessica's POVI had a dream where I returned to my youth.Then, I saw Zander, too.I didn't know why, but the moment I saw him, I wanted him desperately. He seemed to know what I was thinking and strode over, grabbing my shoulders and kissing me fiercely."Zander, no, I mean... okay... oh," I moaned as he moved my underwear aside and began to slowly glide his tongue all around me. "Mm," he groaned, looking up at me. I felt like I was already close. It felt so good that I was.I succumbed to his advances, the warmth and pleasure so real.After the shuddering, I felt a sense of emptiness, as if he had never filled me. I struggled to hold him back as he prepared to leave, and in an instant, I opened my eyes. I found myself lying on a soft, warm bed. The bathroom door was tightly closed, with the sound of water running inside. That familiar, comforting feeling enveloped my mind.Wait, didn't I go drinking with Genevieve? But why did I go drinking?My head spun, unable to think clearly.At
Zander's POVI looked down at Jessica with a mix of frustration and concern.Her eyes were closed, her long lashes resting peacefully on her cheeks, indicating she was genuinely intoxicated rather than feigning drunkenness to curse at me.'This damned woman.'I cursed under my breath but bent down to lift her from the sofa.As I walked out of the private room, guests in the bar corridor stepped aside, forming a path as my bodyguards swiftly moved to shield us from the onlookers. Dwayne led the way with a respectful and upright posture, each step measured and rhythmic.Holding Jessica close, I left Racket. As soon as we stepped outside, a bodyguard who was less intoxicated assisted Genevieve. I spoke in a cold yet authoritative tone, "Arrange a car and have someone see her home."Then, I proceeded to my car with Jessica in my arms.Suddenly, I noticed subtle footsteps and turned to see Dwayne by my side. I frowned and asked, "I'm driving myself home. Why are you following me?"Dwayne's
Zander's POVHarrison Group Tower was nestled in the most bustling and expensive part of Los Angeles. My office, perched atop the tower, boasted the finest view, where I could be the first to witness the sunset over Los Angeles. Yet at that moment, I sat behind my desk, my thoughts drifting, utterly unable to concentrate. The sky outside the floor-to-ceiling glass panes gradually darkened.The scene of Jessica and I leaving the courthouse together kept replaying in my mind.This wasn't the first time Jessica had proposed divorce. Like last time, I had many ways to delay it, but I didn't.As Jessica turned and left, watching her resolute back, I felt a sharp pain in my heart. I still loved her. Yet our love was hurting each other.She had become restless due to Johnny's unresponsive state, but she never considered how much I wished my father were alive, even if in a coma like Johnny.That was an unbridgeable gap between us.A knock on the office door interrupted my thoughts. I gathered