"Alright." Seeing no further objection from her, Linda was relieved.-The two arrived at Nouvelle Eats at the agreed time but saw no sign of the other party."This person made us wait even after inviting us to meet. I don't see any sincerity at all." Jeanna took a sip of juice with a hint of irritation.Linda also glanced at her watch. "Let's wait for another ten minutes. If they don't show up by then, we'll leave.""Okay, only ten minutes," Jeanna agreed.-Sophie put on her hat and sunglasses, covering most of her face instantly. She only revealed her delicate chin and enticing scarlet lips.She had thought that finishing an entire bottle of red wine last night would help her sleep well, but she still stayed up until dawn.After five years, she thought she had learned to stay calm and composed, but her impatience smacked her in the face.She chuckled self-deprecatingly and stepped forward, her legs moving gracefully in her three-inch-high stilettos, stepping into the lobby
Just as Linda was about to persuade her to calm down, she caught a glimpse of movement. Someone was sitting in the CEO's chair, their back to the door. All that was visible were two slender arms, unmistakably those of a woman.Linda frowned. "Who are you? How did you get in here?"Jeanna only then noticed someone in the chair. Startled, she was about to call security.'How careless can the security be, letting a stranger into the CEO's office? What if they steal confidential documents? Can they bear that responsibility?'"Don't bother calling. Security won't be of any use," the person in the chair said, their voice familiar. It was as if they could see their actions, despite facing away.Jeanna's hand, ready to dial, stopped abruptly.'That voice... It sounded unmistakably like Sophie!'Linda was equally stunned by the familiar voice and nervously held her briefcase."Ms. Luxford, is that really you?"Sophie slowly swiveled the chair around, her gaze meeting the stunned women.
"Mommy? What are you doing? Did you miss Cherry?"Cherry's sweet, playful voice came from the phone, sparking a shared look of delight between Jeanna and Linda."Mommy's at work, Cherry. Here, meet your godmothers."Sophie turned the phone toward Jeanna and Linda.Energetically, Cherry greeted, "Hi, Godmother Jean and Godmother Linda! I'm Cherry. Mommy always tells me wonderful stories about you. I already love you!""She knows about us..." Jeanna could not hide her joy, gesturing excitedly toward the phone screen.While Linda, always more reserved, warmly replied, "Hello, Cherry. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.""Godmother Jean is just as excited to meet you, Cherry. What’s your favorite diamond color? I'll pick one out for you."Sophie held her head in her typically extravagant manner, only to hear Cherry’s innocent response. "Thank you, Godmother! I love pink the most.""Alright, let’s not spoil her too much. Cherry, say goodbye for now. Be good for the nanny. Mommy wi
Cedric barged into Luxford Group, stirring up commotion among the employees. Luxford Group was renowned for its peaceful relationship with the neighboring X Corp., a rapport Cedric had forged five years earlier.His sudden entrance today hinted at something out of the ordinary."Mr. Carlson, I'm sorry, but you can't go in there—""Step aside."The assistant standing in front of Cedric backed away due to his stern tone and cleared the way for him as he pushed open the office door."Linda..." The assistant trailed after him, her expression a blend of anxiety and hesitation. Unfortunately, she failed to deter Cedric’s determined stride."It's okay, go back to your work." Linda calmly dismissed her assistant, who quickly exited.Jeanna's light-hearted mood changed abruptly upon seeing Cedric. "Who allowed you to come here?""Jean, stay calm," Linda interjected, standing up and facing Cedric with her typical composed demeanor."Mr. Carlson honors us with his visit. What brings you
"Who's your Jean? Take your dessert and scram!"Jeanna shook off the hand on her shoulder, her fury now directed at Sean. After all, he was close with Cedric, a pair of scoundrels in her eyes.Holding the dessert with an innocent look, Sean was speechless and baffled. 'Did I really lose my brotherly bond in just a moment of hesitation? Was I too slow?'"Mr. Carlson, please leave. This is Luxford Group," Linda interjected, diplomatically yet firmly requesting him to exit.Cedric was rarely asked to leave anywhere. His frustration was evident in his frown and bloodshot eyes as they darted to a corner camera.'Sophie, is that you? Have you come back?'In the surveillance room, Sophie observed quietly. Despite five years apart, his face was still ingrained in her memory.'Cedric, we'll meet soon. You and Vivienne owe me, and I intend to collect,' she thought, watching him depart.After watching Cedric leave, Linda sighed in relief, but her concern shifted to Sean, still lingering a
"Mommy, can you not leave Tristan alone at home again?" Tristan's small face was etched with worry as he clung to Vivienne's legs."Tristan, be good. Mommy and Daddy have a special event tonight. The nanny will play with you, okay?" Vivienne tried to comfort him, masking her impatience."No, I don't want the nanny. I want Mommy." Tristan’s voice quivered, his eyes shimmering with tears."Tristan, Mommy can't take you with her, understand?"If Tristan were an ordinary child, she wouldn't mind bringing him along. However, given his condition, taking him to a charity gala would only lead to ridicule from others.Startled by her sharp reprimand, Tristan reluctantly let go of Vivienne's legs, his eyes filled with unshed tears. "Okay, Mommy. I’ll be good. I won't go. Please don't be angry.""That's my good boy. Mommy promises a special treat later, okay?" Vivienne smiled warmly, stroking his hair before selecting her handbag.As the echoes of her high heels faded away, Tristan's tears
The chatter grew louder, primarily emanating from young, affluent, and attractive women who had long forgotten Cedric's turbulent past—a time when he flaunted more than just his signature black attire.Sensing the envious glances directed her way, Vivienne managed a smile. Five years ago, she too had doubted Cedric's love for Sophie, evident in his ever-changing relationships and debauched lifestyle. However, she soon realized it was all a charade.It was similar to the present facade, with her arm intertwined with Cedric's. Everyone assumed he harbored a deep affection for her, especially considering the absence of other women. Yet, only she knew the truth: this was his method of tormenting and punishing her.'But what does it matter? I stand by his side today, and it will always be me!' With this thought, Vivienne's smile became more natural."Ladies and gentlemen, please quiet down. Now that everyone is here, let's begin tonight's program," announced Mr. Church, the host of the
Austin confidently raised his bidding paddle, his challenging gaze fixed on Cedric."3 million!" Cedric called out, his back still to Austin, stirring a wave of murmurs among the audience. The escalating bids between the Carlsons hinted at an impending public showdown.Unfazed, Austin increased his bid. "3.2 million."Cedric responded with a decisive "4 million," doubling the necklace's actual value and sending the crowd into a frenzy.The Carlsons' extravagant bidding war was a spectacle to behold.Vivienne's face betrayed her excitement, especially as envious glances fell upon her, filling her with pride. She knew Cedric would not let Austin win, no matter the cost. She imagined the necklace on her, and her smile widened uncontrollably.The eager audience waited for Austin to bid again, but he put down his paddle, letting Cedric have it."4 million once, 4 million twice, 4 million sold!"Only then did Cedric turn to look at Austin, his expression unreadable. 'He rarely attend
Tristan looked up in surprise. As if struck by a sudden thought, he glanced at Cherry, who was writhing in pain, and timidly asked, "Can I go to the hospital to help?""You need to stay home and help Cherry get a leave from school tomorrow. Be good and stay here. Trust Daddy. Cherry will be fine." Cedric's words seemed to soothe Tristan's anxiety.Avoiding Cedric’s gaze, Tristan obediently nodded. 'Cherry will surely be fine.'-The Bentley sped along the road and soon arrived at the hospital.Cedric held Cherry the entire time, while Sophie handled the paperwork. Their seamless cooperation made them seem like a perfectly ordinary married couple."Mr. Carlson, Mrs. Carlson, the child has gastritis and needs to be hospitalized for treatment," the emergency physician explained after examining Cherry, jotting down the diagnosis in the medical record.Sophie's face turned pale. 'Gastritis? How could it be so severe?'"Can she recover?" Cedric asked with a frown, his sudden intimida
In Imperium, hardly anyone else would dare yell at Cedric like this. Cedric's eyes narrowed dangerously, his shoulders radiating a cold aura. However, traces of helplessness and doting affection softened his expression. Despite his reluctance, he eventually turned aside cooperatively.Sophie couldn't help but smile. 'It's no wonder some people believe that daughters are their fathers' lovers from a previous life. If it were anyone else, Cedric would have likely thrown them out the window by now.'She lifted Cherry's clothes to reveal her round belly and gently massaged it in circles with her fingers. Taking the opportunity, she also gave Cherry a gentle reminder, "How many times has Mommy told you not to eat so much? But you never listen. Now you know how it feels when you overeat, huh?""Mommy, could you not rub salt in my wounds?" Cherry's face was scrunched up in pain. Her pitiful and aggrieved expression instantly silenced Sophie, who decided to save the scolding for when Cherry
Cedric kissed Sophie’s rosy cheeks, preparing to take things to the next level, when a knock on the door interrupted them at a crucial moment.His expression darkened immediately. No man liked being interrupted at such a time, and it had happened repeatedly."Who is it?" Sophie grabbed the blanket beside her to cover her exposed chest, her hoarse voice betraying her recent passion."Ms. Luxford... It's me." Tristan's low voice came from the other side of the door.'Tristan?' Sophie looked at the man beside her, surprised. She had assumed it was Cherry again, but unexpectedly...Gathering her scattered clothes from the floor, Sophie dressed quickly. Ensuring there was nothing inappropriate between her and Cedric, she got out of bed and walked toward the door.Tristan stood there, head down, fingers fidgeting, indicating urgency. As soon as the door opened, he looked up anxiously and said, "Ms. Luxford, could you go check on Cherry? She seems unwell.""Cherry is unwell?" The flush
"This birthday brings me a lot of happiness."Sophie grasped the deeper implications of his words. The blush on her cheeks faded slightly, and the initial flutter of excitement mingled with a touch of sadness. No one could predict what Jeff's condition would be like by her next birthday.Cedric shifted the topic, pouring the already decanted red wine into a tall glass and handing it to her. "Just one glass. This is for your private birthday celebration. Happy birthday."The intoxicating aroma of the wine was irresistible. She stopped resisting and held her glass up to gently clink against his, producing a clear, melodious sound that resonated beautifully in the quiet room.The rich wine slid down her throat, soothing her tense nerves. Her tightly held shoulders relaxed, and her racing heart found a semblance of peace. She had once believed she would never fall for Cedric again, but looking back, she realized that all her hatred had been rooted in love.He had transformed love into
Cedric seemed to know exactly what Sophie was nervous about. He raised his eyebrows suggestively, causing her to blush and quickly look away.What had happened between them lingered in the air, irrevocable.Jeff squinted, watching their subtle gestures with satisfaction. Smiling contentedly, he struggled to his feet with the help of his cane. These two had already reached a natural conclusion, and there was no need for him to exaggerate his illness any longer."Mommy, I still have homework to do. I'm heading to my room," Cherry announced, her bright eyes glancing at Tristan. She couldn't beat him at Taekwondo, but she was determined to outshine him in the midterm exams!"I’m going upstairs too," Tristan added, surprised by her sudden focus. He hesitated for a moment before quickly following her up the stairs.Melissa had long lost her patience. Without a word, she dragged Matthew upstairs, letting out a disdainful snort as they left.What had been a lively living room now left So
"Okay."Understanding Cherry’s impatience, Sophie smiled and gently pulled away from Cedric’s embrace. She clasped her hands together, closed her eyes, and made a wish.She hoped for her family's safety, health, and happiness. She wished that her parents and sister were living comfortably in another world. And she wished that she and Cedric would have a happy ending, free from past mistakes.After silently making her wishes, she blew out the flickering candles in one breath.The room filled with the faint scent of melted wax."We can eat the cake now!" Cherry beamed with joy, eagerly carrying the cake to the dining table.Her impatience made Jeff laugh heartily, his eyes crinkling with delight as he stroked his beard. "Alright, let’s start eating before this little girl drools all over the table."Sophie took her seat, glancing at Cedric, who still held her hand tightly. Her smile widened as she playfully scolded him, "Why didn’t you tell me on the way here?""If I told you, ho
Although Sophie's mind was brimming with questions, she couldn’t help but smile at Cedric's words. She looked down at their intertwined hands, feeling the warmth of his palm. Whether it was a perfect match or a union made in heaven, it all required two hearts in love. With love, even amidst turbulence, they would find the courage to move forward together.Before long, the Bentley smoothly pulled into the Carlson residence.Jeff immediately smiled and waved upon their arrival. "Soph, come over here."Sophie approached, noticing that Mrs. Carrie had prepared a table full of dishes. She couldn’t help but feel puzzled. "Grandpa, what has made you so happy? Why did you ask Mrs. Carrie to make so much delicious food?""Silly girl, did you forget what day it is today?"Jeff's loving yet mischievous smile left her momentarily bewildered. Then her eyes widened in surprise. With everything going on with Linda, she had completely forgotten her own birthday!"Happy birthday." Cedric had quie
Fearing that staying any longer would only worsen the situation, Linda quickly opened the door and walked out.Fenix stood there, confusion gradually replacing the determination in his eyes."What’s wrong with marrying me?" he asked Sophie, genuinely puzzled.'I’m the CEO of Cheshire Group. I’m not unattractive, and marrying me would make her legally protected as Mrs. Cheshire. Why am I being rejected?'Sophie coughed awkwardly, gaining a deeper understanding of Fenix. Sean had navigated the world of romance with ease, but Fenix seemed as naive in matters of the heart as a child."Am I really that bad?"Seeing that Fenix was still fixated on why he was rejected, Sophie shook her head. "Feelings are different from business. It’s not about racing against time or weighing benefits. You can’t apply business tactics to relationships. Spending a lifetime together requires a foundation of love.""Foundation of love? You and Cedric grew up together. You had a good foundation, but it was
Sophie's suspicion was right. Fenix was not one to easily abandon his target. After Linda ignored countless calls, he took the initiative to find her."Mr. Cheshire, Linda really isn't in the office right now," the secretary tried to block him, but it was futile against a determined man, especially one exuding an intimidating chill."Then I’ll find Sophie.""But Ms. Luxford, she—" Before the secretary could finish, Fenix's long legs had already taken him to Sophie's office door.He knocked twice before pushing it open. The secretary looked like she was about to cry. "Ms. Luxford, I’m sorry, I couldn’t stop Mr. Cheshire.""It’s fine. Go make Mr. Cheshire a cup of coffee," Sophie said.Seeing Fenix barge in, she raised an eyebrow, smiled, and glanced at Linda, who was hiding in her office. "Have a seat and let's talk.""No need. I have to catch a flight soon." Fenix cut straight to the point, his determined eyes fixed on Linda as he said firmly, "I need an answer from you.""Mr.