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
"No, I should leave. I have work at the company. Plus, I’m concerned those relentless journalists might follow me here."As Austin prepared to depart, Cherry grabbed his arm, looking up with longing eyes. "Papa Austin, will you come to see Cherry tomorrow? I want to see you every day.""Are you only excited about the cakes I bring? Watch out for tooth bugs that will eat all your little teeth," Austin jested as he saw through her ruse, playfully pinching her nose.Cherry pouted, feeling underestimated. "Bugs don't cause tooth decay. Adults always tease kids for not knowing enough."Austin soothed her, "Right, Cherry is the smartest primary student I know.""Hmm, Papa Austin, how did you know I started primary school?" Cherry asked, with Sophie's curious gaze following.Before Sophie could ask, Austin explained with a smile, "I happened to pass by your school the last time I was discussing a contract and saw you taking Cherry there. I didn't want to interrupt. I need to get going n
Sophie's smile froze briefly as she contemplated Cherry's uncanny resemblance to Cedric, which became more evident with each passing day. Frequently, she found herself gazing at her slumbering daughter, her mind filled with conflicting thoughts.Upon noting Sophie's silence, Jeff's smile broadened affectionately. There was no longer a need to ask whose child Cherry was—the answer was clear.Finally understanding, Cherry felt a mix of reluctance and conflict. After all, such a generous gift made it hard to dislike this kind-hearted old man, who seemed nothing like Cedric."Grandpa, did you come here by yourself?" Sophie diverted the topic. She had anticipated his visit after the recent news but had not expected him to come alone at his age."Don't underestimate me. I may be old, but I can still manage a cab ride." Jeff chuckled, glancing toward the living room window.-Downstairs, Cedric gazed up at the top floor, a smile flickering on his lips, replaced quickly by a touch of mel
Cherry's stories thoroughly entertained Jeff, eliciting robust laughter from him.Following a vivid narration of the three little pigs and becoming familiar enough to cheekily tug at his beard, she asked, "Grandpa, did you enjoy Cherry's story?""Absolutely delightful, the best story I've heard," Jeff replied, his chuckles echoing warmly. Cherry's intelligence and charm were irresistibly engaging."Grandpa, what would you like for dinner? I can prepare something," Sophie offered, glancing at the clock. She was aware of the importance of regular meals for Jeff's health and sugar levels."There’s no need, dear. I’ve imposed on you enough for one day," Jeff said, gracefully preserving her dignity."Mommy, Grandpa probably thinks your lunch was too bad. Grandpa, I eat Mommy’s cooking every day, and it's quite pitiful," Cherry blurted out."Nonsense, you said my bacon sandwich was tasty," Sophie retorted, trying to hide her slight embarrassment.Cherry stuck out her tongue. "I was ju