"Grandfather, I can agree to nearly anything, but I insist Vivienne’s chile must be kept," Cedric declared firmly, softening his tone but not his determination.This child was essential for his future with Sophie. He owed her a clear answer this time."Say that again?!" Jeff frowned, questioning if Cedric truly understood the consequences of his decision. There was already Tristan, and having another child would utterly disgrace Sophie.'Which woman would want to deal with her partner's children from another woman as she grew older?'"Vivienne's child must be kept," Cedric stated clearly, determined to protect the child until the truth was revealed.Jeff trembled with rage, almost fearing it might end him, and he turned sharply to Austin."Austin, begin the arranged meetings with suitable girls from our social circle. As long as you like her, I don't care about her family background. It could be a celebrity or an ordinary girl, anyone but Sophie.'"Grandfather, I won't be meetin
The media had been abuzz about Vivienne's pregnancy for days, yet Sophie was disinterested and exhausted, struggling to keep her eyes open."That jerk Cedric! It's been days. Is he ever going to respond?"Vivienne's news had broken just as Austin publicly confessed his feelings for her, but Cedric's silence was deafening."If I were you, I'd seriously consider Austin. He's been by your side all these years, caring for you and Cherry. Where else would you find such a good man? Linda, what's that saying? The best kind of love is companionship," Jeanna commented."That’s more often said about parents and children," Linda corrected gently, her role as a senior secretary making her quick to ensure accuracy."Right, I meant that the best kind of romance is one that grows over time and endures into old age."Jeanna rolled her eyes. Compared to Cedric, Austin seemed like the more dependable type. After all, if not for his timely intervention years ago, Sophie might not have survived. The
"You're now part of Paramount," Sophie informed Valerie in a professional tone. "As your boss, I hope to see your value increase. However, I must remind you not to be too optimistic. The entertainment industry is brimming with fresh talent now, and it's quite different from what you knew before. Make sure to seize this opportunity."Although Sophie warned her, she was confident that Valerie was astute enough to leverage her strengths."Yes, boss." Valerie chuckled, pleasantly surprised by their smooth collaboration. "Who would've thought we'd mesh so well?"Once, Valerie had found it difficult to even tolerate Sophie."By the way, is it true about Vivienne being pregnant with Cedric's child? Or is it just a publicity stunt?" Valerie shifted the conversation to gossip after their serious discussion. The news had been all over her phone for days, yet something seemed off.'How could Cedric have let Vivienne become pregnant?'At the mention of Cedric’s name again, Sophie felt a head
"Ms. Luxford, is everything okay?" Linda asked, noting Sophie's serious expression and growing worry."I just came from the hospital where I visited Valerie. As I was leaving, I saw a man entering Vivienne’s room. What if her pregnancy is..." Sophie's voice trailed off, suspicion clouding her thoughts.Was she doubting her instincts, grappling with Vivienne’s pregnancy, or unconsciously seeking excuses for Cedric?Although she left her sentence unfinished, Linda quickly caught on. After pondering for a moment, she remarked, "I've heard rumors that Mr. Carlson intended to send Vivienne abroad until Tristan was older. Given her desperation to stay, she might resort to anything. And using a child has always been her tactic."Sophie's troubled expression deepened. 'Could that really be true?'-At X Corp.Cedric's expression was unreadable. He glanced up as Evander entered. "Any progress?""The hospital surveillance has been wiped clean, quite thoroughly. It'll take specialists to
'The Carlson heirs…'Ironically, neither of her children belonged to the Carlson bloodline.Vivienne pressed down on her stomach, her fingers curling involuntarily with emotional turmoil. Tristan was a stain in her life she could never erase, and now, she was burdened with another revolting presence inside her.She wished she could rid herself of the fetus but understood the harsh reality. As long as the child was alive, Cedric could not harm her. Without it, he would have no hesitation in sending her away.A sharp pain shot through her lower abdomen as she pressed too hard, deepening her frown."Ms. Kerrigan, are you feeling alright?" The nurse noticed the sudden change in Vivienne's expression and felt her own heart race. This job was turning out to be more challenging than she had anticipated."I’m fine," Vivienne muttered, the pain intensifying her frown. "Take me back to my room."As the nurse wheeled her back, Vivienne's peripheral vision caught a shadowy figure, sending a
The nurse observed Vivienne clutching her stomach, growing increasingly worried.Cedric had made it clear that the child must remain unharmed. Could something already be wrong with the baby?"Ms. Kerrigan, are you feeling alright?" she asked.Vivienne bit her lip, praying the sharp pain in her abdomen would subside. Instead, it worsened, and suddenly, she felt a warm trickle down her legs. Looking down, she saw a fresh stain of red blood."Ms. Kerrigan, you're bleeding!" the nurse exclaimed, dropping her clipboard in shock and dashing to summon medical help.Soon, Vivienne was rushed into an examination room. As the cold ultrasound probe pressed against her belly, turning her face even paler, she kept her eyes glued to the screen."Doctor, is my baby okay?""Ms. Kerrigan, try to stay calm. There's some bleeding, but the embryo is still viable for now. However, there are signs of a threatened miscarriage."Ms. Kerrigan, you are less than three months pregnant, and certain activi
"Right away!" Evander carefully closed the office door, his mind swirling with thoughts of Cedric's shocking day.Cedric was drugged into fatherhood and now bore the stigma of a cuckold—his fate seemed exceptionally cruel today.Alone in his office, Cedric set down his pen and approached the panoramic window. His typically stern face softened, a faint smile gracing his lips. 'Soph, just a little more time, and I'll resolve everything. No obstacles will hinder us again.'-Not far off, Sophie sneezed, prompting Jeanna to jest, "Didn’t you just come back from the hospital? Why are you still sneezing?""Diseases arrive quickly but leave slowly. How could the medicine work instantly?" Sophie countered, wiping her nose. She was puzzled by her persistent sneezing despite feeling better after two days of treatment.Suddenly, Linda burst into the office, her anxiety evident."What's wrong?""I just received a call from the hospital. Vivienne is bleeding.""Did she miscarry?" Jeanna's
Since the bleeding, Vivienne had been especially cautious, taking medication and receiving progesterone injections on time every day. Although the cast on her leg had been removed, she dared not move around too much. Fortunately, there had been no further instances of bleeding.The doctor wiped the probe clean, set it aside, pointed at the small lump on the ultrasound screenshot, and said with a smile, "Ms. Kerrigan, look, the fetus looks quite healthy. As long as you get through the first trimester, there shouldn't be any major issues."Upon hearing that the baby was healthy, the tension in Vivienne's heart finally eased. Although Cedric had not visited during this period, he also had not mentioned anything about sending her abroad.'But... If this child is born...' Vivienne's expression changed as she thought of William, who clung to her like a detection dog. 'No, Tristan has been turned into his leverage, I mustn't let him get hold of another leverage.'Seeing her expression gro
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.