Cherry flung her limbs perfectly, but her round eyes darted left and right incessantly. In the past few days, she could not shake the feeling that someone was secretly watching her, and it did not feel friendly."What are you looking at?" Reyna, who was beside her, asked curiously, glancing around.However, other than their schoolmates and the PE teachers supervising them, she did not see anything out of the ordinary."I'm thinking of a riddle for you," Cherry replied.As soon as Reyna heard there was a riddle, her eyes lit up behind her glasses. When the midday exercises ended, she immediately wrapped her arms around Cherry's. "Quick, tell me, what's today's riddle?""What's the rush? We'll talk about it when we get back to the classroom." Cherry smiled and glanced around.'Whoever infiltrated the school likely isn't part of a large group. If it's a lone perpetrator, they won't risk acting in front of witnesses unless they are reckless. So, as long as there's always someone arou
The large hand that was reaching for Cherry suddenly dropped as if it were a robotic arm that had just lost power, and Alfred's body collapsed to the ground.Tristan's small chest heaved vigorously, his face devoid of any color except a faint pallor. In his hand, there was a large brick, stained with fresh blood."I... I... I…" he repeated three times, unable to steady his breathing.In a panic, he threw the brick away, shook his head, stepped backward in fear until his body lost balance, and fell onto the edge of the flower bed.The fear gripping him was reminiscent of five years ago. He dared not look at the person lying out cold on the ground, and his lips trembled uneasily. "Did... Did I... Kill him?"Cherry was the one who calmed down first, walked up to Alfred, and placed her fingers under his nose to confirm if he was still breathing. Soon, she sighed in relief. "You didn't kill anyone. He's still alive, probably just unconscious."While saying so, she kicked Alfred. 'This
When Tristan came to his senses, Cherry was already nowhere to be seen. His face was flushed with excitement and joy. 'She said we can be friends!'-At Luxford Group.After hanging up, Sophie smirked, and a hint of pride flickered in her eyes.She had long known that Vivienne would target Cherry once she found out about her existence. That's why, even before returning to Carlosia, she hired two Carlosian-Altrurian mercenaries from Altruria at a high salary to secretly protect Cherry's safety.Otherwise, how could she possibly feel at ease letting her daughter come and go under Vivienne's watchful eyes every day?However, to her surprise, Tristan actually came to Cherry's help.Thinking of her daughter's somewhat vigilant response, she smiled, turned to Linda, and said, "Order a cherry-flavored cake for me, with extra cherries and cream.""I'm afraid that a cake might not be enough to soothe Cherry's wounded heart." Having overheard Sophie's conversation, Linda felt a pang of s
Early the next morning, a heated argument broke out in the CEO's office of Luxford Group.Jeanna propped her arms against the desk, looking as if she was interrogating Sophie. "Sophie Luxford, have you ever seen a mother like yourself? What if something happened to Cherry?"'Villians don't always act accordingly! What if Vivienne didn't play along this time and just asked the culprit to strangle Cherry to death on the spot? Would those two mercenaries have arrived in time to save her?"Don't be angry. I've been a mother like this for years," Sophie replied calmly.Otherwise, how could she, a single woman, have raised a child alone while establishing a business empire like Paramount Inc.?"Moreover, it's precisely because I'm such a mother that Cherry is smarter, more independent, and thoughtful than other children," Sophie added."You still have the nerve to argue! Linda, let's both resign. Otherwise, if someone were to kidnap us someday, she wouldn't even bother to rescue us!" J
"Is this video fake? You didn't mention this at all that day!" Jeanna looked at the frowning Sophie.She had not mentioned this because no reporters or media had been allowed at the charity gala that evening. Even the attendees had been informed beforehand that no photography or recording was allowed to ensure privacy and secrecy. That was why she had not rushed to respond to Austin's lie.However, she had not expected someone to have made preparations beforehand and leaked the information to a TV station."Now that this is out, I bet you that the other media outlets will go crazy. Not only did you come back from the dead, but you also got married to your ex-husband's cousin. I can already imagine the headlines on the tabloids tomorrow," Jeanna commented in a joking tone, but her eyes betrayed her concern.She hoped the news was true, that Sophie had accepted Austin. But what was fake would still stay fake.Even though the facts were false, they would still result in genuine harm
At the Carlson residence...Jeff stared at the TV intently, barely even breathing softly. After the news broadcast ended, he instructed the servant to rewind and replay the news, ensuring that what he had seen was indeed true."Soph... Sophie is alive!" His trembling body rose from the couch, his mind overwhelmed with excitement. His entire body swayed from side to side due to the sudden rush of blood to his head, and his aged face could not even conceal his joy."Father, please be careful." Matthew quickly stood up and supported his father, fearing he might get too excited and fall."I told you, God wouldn't be foolish as to take Soph away from us. She's finally returned!" Jeff exclaimed.In the past five years, if he had not been longing for Sophie to come back safely with the child in her womb, he might have given up and passed on long ago!"Father, you're so excited about Sophie's return, but she might not even appreciate it. And there's that child too, Austin personally admi
"Even you're saying that we're all family, and Father won't be biased. Do you find it amusing to be constantly worrying about the company's equity all day, every day?"After being reprimanded, Matthew also grew agitated. They were both at an age where obsessing over property distribution should be a thing of the past.Vivienne continued to vent. "I'm constantly worrying? Why don't you show me some of the same concerns then? At least be a man when it counts. What good does being the 'nice man' do anyway?"Matthew finally lost his cool. "Alright, I'm useless! Is this what you want to hear?"Seeing that Matthew, who rarely lost his head, actually got angry, Melissa was taken aback for a moment. She stopped him as he was about to leave the mansion. "It's getting dark out there. Where do you think you're going?!""I'm useless, so I need some time to myself to reflect on my uselessness. Is that too much to ask too?" Matthew snorted and left without looking back."That worthless piece o
Cherry pondered the news, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Mommy, actually, having Papa Austin as my daddy would be quite nice. He's rich, handsome, and kind. He treats us both well. He's a perfect husband and father."The most important thing was that Austin had no other women around him, which was much better than certain other people."You don’t know anything," Sophie retorted. Sophie's tightened grip caused Cherry to recoil, rubbing her face. "I do too understand! Mommy, don't miss this opportunity."Sophie might have taken the advice more seriously if it had come from an adult, but hearing it from a five-year-old only made her laugh. "You think you're grown-up because you can talk, huh?"Changing the subject, Sophie brought breakfast to the table. "Go wash up quickly. After breakfast, we’ll go out."Unsatisfied, Cherry stuck her tongue out. However, she was about to comply for the sake of the cake when the doorbell suddenly rang."I'll get it." Cherry rushed to the door
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.