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Chapter 19
Kaugnay na kabanata
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 20
Annie took a deep breath. Choking back her tears, she continued, "Catherine almost killed Ms. Harper's grandmother! She lied and told Madam Harper she was pregnant with your child, causing such a shock that she almost died. Yet, here you are, slapping Ms. Harper for her instead."Julian was taken aback for a moment.Catherine, pregnant? How was that possible?His gaze darkened as he turned to her. "You told Willow's grandmother that you were pregnant?"Catherine was scared out of her wits.Pitifully, she tried to explain to him, "I just couldn't stand her! She's always putting on airs in front of me, so I... Julian, I didn't mean any harm."He abruptly released her and strode out, ignoring her desperate calls.He didn't even spare her a second glance.Catherine was left in shock.For the first time, she had failed to keep Julian on her leash.She refused to believe that Willow still held a place in his heart. Their marriage had clearly been a transaction. How could he possi
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 21
Julian stood there. His face was devoid of emotion. It was impossible to tell what was going through his head.…While Julian was outside, Catherine's parents had rushed over to the villa. Nancy screamed when she saw how the house was in a complete mess."What on earth happened here? Who was it that had the audacity to do this to the Nebula Group's CEO's house?"Catherine held one hand over her cheek. "It was Willow."Nancy's anger diminished almost instantly. However, she snickered a few seconds later. "She won't be able to act haughtily like this for long. We can do pretty much anything we want to an orphan like her once Julian divorces her."Charlie felt his conscience telling him this was not right. He furrowed his brows. "Don't say that. She's Julian's lawfully wedded wife, after all."Nancy was irked. "Lawfully wedded wife? If you ask me, the two of them are just pretending to be a couple. If it weren't for what happened back then…"Charlie called out to Nancy and stopped
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 22
Willow did not want to speak to him. She excused herself and went into the bathroom.She leaned against the wall and stared blankly into space. Willow was waiting for Julian to take the hint and leave.Ten minutes later, the bathroom door opened with a soft creak. A ray of light streamed in through the opened door, and Julian slipped in shortly afterward.There were only the two of them inside that dark space.Willow did not look at him, a sign of her refusing to communicate with him.Julian stopped before her. With his tall form, he towered over Willow. Julian reached out and lightly placed his hand against her cheek. His voice was hoarse yet gentle. "Does it still hurt?"Willow turned her face away. She was repulsed by his touch, and she made sure to show it clearly.However, Julian was not someone who would give up easily. He pushed one leg between Willow's legs and held her chin. He gently caressed her cheek as if he was looking at something precious to him. Yet, Willow mere
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 23
Willow left the hospital and headed home. Julian quickly hurried after her.After she stopped her car, Willow could see Julian standing next to his car, which was parked beside the sycamore tree.When Willow exited her car, Julian moved to block her path. "We need to talk."Willow walked past him and headed for the elevator. "There's nothing for us to talk about, Julian. I'll see you in court."She went up to her floor, and Julian followed behind her. However, Willow did not let him into her apartment.She leaned against the door after closing it. Julian took up a big part of her youth. It was actually really painful for Willow to try and cut him off now.She spent some time organizing her thoughts. Then, Willow took her bathrobe and went for a shower. As for whether Julian would linger outside or leave, it was none of her business anymore.As the night deepened, one could see through the windows of the building the lights going out one after another.Inside a black car parked
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 24
One week later, Willow secured the unit for her business.She signed a contract for five years since the price and location of the unit were ideal. She wrote a check and passed it to the landlord.With the economy having slowed down in recent years, the landlord was very pleased with the fact that Willow wanted to sign a contract for five years.The landlord left shortly afterward since he had other arrangements. On the other hand, Willow remained seated as she tried to finish her coffee. It was a habit she had had for a long time.Just then, she heard a soft female voice. "Willow!"Willow paused for a split second.It was Natalie, Jeffrey's younger sister.Natalie was still a college student. She and Willow were not exactly close. However, she was being very friendly to her that day. Natalie hurried over and clung to Willow's arm while speaking to her enthusiastically.Even someone who was usually aloof and distant like Willow liked how bubbly and lovely the young lady was. Wi
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 25
"Julian's wife is celebrating another man's birthday behind Julian's back.""Well, Julian caught her red-handed.""Julian doesn't love Willow, though. I don't think he'll make a fuss about it."…Julian leaned back against a couch placed in a corner of the room. With his black attire, it was as though he had blended in with the darkness.Even in a place like that, Julian exuded an air of refinement. He seemed like he could be a celestial being who would never be tainted by matters of the mortal world.Julian fixed Willow, who was standing at the door, with an intense gaze.It was obvious that she had dressed up for the occasion.Willow was wearing a greyish-blue satin dress with a fitted waistline, a pearl necklace around her neck, and a pair of diamond earrings. She also paired her outfit with a handbag and a watch of matching colors.She looked both elegant and feminine.No one knew exactly when it was that Willow had started showing these changes.She started showing this
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 26
In the other corner of the room, Julian leaned forward and stubbed out his cigarette.With his perfect side profile and slender fingers, he looked charming even when he was just doing those simple movements. Then, he stood up and walked over to the group. Julian placed one hand on Willow's shoulder lightly."It's time to go home, Willow."A heavy silence lingered in the air.The others did not expect Julian to be so affected by this. They all assumed that he did not care that much about Willow.Besides, Jeffrey had not overstepped his boundaries. He merely said something ambiguous. It was not as though he had actually stolen something precious from Julian. Yet, Julian had reacted this way.Even back then, he had never acted so defensive when it came to that person. It seemed like being officially married did make a lot of difference.Everyone thought that Willow would surely listen to Julian and follow him home since he had given in first. She would most likely go back to being
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 27
That day, for the first time ever, Jeffrey wanted to hold a woman in his arms. It was not out of lust or desire.Instead, Jeffrey simply wanted to hold Willow, wipe away her tears, and kiss those trembling lips.While the others remained silent, Jeffrey asked, "Why do you want a divorce?"The couple standing by the door turned around. Julian looked at his longtime friend with a stony gaze. His voice turned icy. "Do you know what you're doing, Jeffrey Gibson? You should go to the hospital and get yourself sobered up if you're feeling too drunk."Jeffrey rose from his seat slowly."I'm completely sober! I've always been! Have you sobered up, Julian? If you have, you should have realized by now that Willow doesn't love you anymore. You can hold onto her for one to two years, but you can't hold onto her forever."Julian scoffed. "She's still my wife now."Jeffrey fell silent.Natalie, who sat beside him, tugged at his sleeve. She asked cautiously, "Jeffrey, do you like Willow?""M
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Leaving You Bereft Chapter 129
Three days later, Willow returned to Brindley.Heather had arranged a series of blind dates for her. Out of respect, Willow went along with it. However, she didn't meet anyone suitable.Julian had run into her on a couple of occasions, but as he had promised, he hadn't interfered.A month later, at Hidden Springs Restaurant, another blind date had just ended.Willow went to the restroom to wash her hands before heading home.The lighting was soft. Willow's face in the mirror was serene. For tonight's blind date, she put on an elegant cocktail dress and tied up her hair loosely.After washing her hands, she put on the diamond watch that she had removed earlier.When she looked up, she saw a man in the mirror. It was Julian.He was wearing a black button-down shirt with slacks, but it wasn't particularly formal. He was leaning against the wall, holding a cigarette between his fingers between puffs.Willow ignored him and turned off the faucet before walking past him.Julian blo
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 128
Charlie was a well-known figure. When had he ever suffered such humiliation?After some internal struggle, he finally stated his purpose. "The thing is, Willow and Catherine are half-sisters. Considering their blood ties, I hope you can spare us.""In your dreams!"Laura even spat on the ground in Charlie's direction."You heartless, rotten bastard. Take your wife and get the hell out of here! Don't stay here and be an eyesore. I'll have to clean my eyes after looking at you."Do you think I didn't know what happened back then? You were in a relationship with Heather, but because your wife's father was on the judging panel, you shamelessly switched sides."You even slandered Heather, accusing her of being unfaithful. Charlie, after what you did to Heather and Willow, how dare you come here to claim your daughter?"The only place your family belongs is prison!"Laura was swift and decisive. She turned to the housekeeper and ordered, "Grab a broom and sweep these heartless people
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 127
A moment later, a housekeeper led Charlie and Nancy into the living hall.Nancy was visibly displeased.Back in their youth, Heather had been no match for Nancy in any regard. But now, Nancy found herself needing to beg that wretched woman for something.Charlie kept his tone gentle, trying to smooth things over.Nancy sneered, "Why are you trying to play the good guy? Back then, you were never as talented as her. If it weren't for my father's favoritism, you never would've won that prestigious award."It would have gone to that wretch instead."Charlie hesitated for a moment before saying, "Stop it. Let's not talk about the past."Nancy scoffed again. "Sometimes, I actually pity her for mistaking you for a decent man."As the two continued bickering, they stepped inside the Chapman residence. The Chapman residence was the most luxurious mansion in Yarrowmere. Even from the foyer, the decorations were overwhelming. The living room alone spanned over 1,000 square feet.The di
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 126
Timothy held Heather's hand and placed it over his heart, his eyes filled with deep affection."Feel it."After so many years of marriage, they shared a deep bond.Besides, he could feel his heart beating strongly, showing that he was still in his prime.Heather melted into his arms, her hair disheveled as she let him carry her onto the soft bed.With their long-held wish fulfilled, their lovemaking that night was even more passionate than before.The entire city of Yarrowmere celebrated the Chapman family reuniting with their daughter.The next day, Dominic timed his arrival perfectly and arrived at the Chapman residence at 3:00 pm.A convoy of black, luxury sedans rolled in one after another through the entrance, creating a grand spectacle.When the housekeeper went to announce their arrival, Laura was introducing Willow to her family and friends.She chuckled and said, "Didn't Willow and that Ziegler guy already get divorced? It's all in black and white. Is he trying to go
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 125
It was the middle of the night, but the Chapman residence in Yarrowmere was brightly lit.Laura personally came to the entrance to greet them.Despite her age, Laura was pragmatic. She had always respected her son's choices in love, but the fact that he had no children to carry on his legacy had always been a lingering regret in her heart.Now, as she looked at Willow, she couldn't help but notice how perfect Willow was. She was pretty and intelligent, the full package.Laura was utterly satisfied. She muttered, "Finally, Timothy has someone to inherit his name. This child has been raised well. The lady who raised her in Brindley must have done an excellent job."She's got the makings of someone who will accomplish great things."Laura turned to Heather with playful reproach. "She has done us such a huge favor. Why didn't you bring her over to share our joy?"Heather quickly explained, "Mom, Willow's grandmother just had a major surgery and is still recovering. When she's feelin
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 124
Julian stood quietly, watching as Willow's chaotic life was finally set right. He began to wonder. If she had never gone missing as a child, she would have never become his wife.She would've grown up receiving the best education, living a life of privilege. Perhaps, in this lifetime, their paths would've never crossed.He would have stayed in Brindley, while she stayed in Yarrowmere. They might have stayed strangers who had just heard each other's names in passing.He didn't disturb her. Instead, he turned and left silently, settling into the back seat of his car.The night was dark.Julian, ever so composed and dignified, sat in the back seat and instructed Esther, "Contact the PR department. I want a post issued."Esther nodded.Then, Julian sent the proposal to Esther.When Esther read it, she was stunned. That was a rather unexpected move from Julian.Ten minutes later, Nebula Group published an official post, with a simple caption, "My true love".Attached to the post w
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 123
Charlie was dumbfounded after being slapped.It took him a long moment to process the fact that Willow was her daughter.Willow was the child he had with Heather.Charlie stood frozen for a moment, his eyes brimming with tears as he gazed at Willow. The more he looked, the more he saw the striking resemblance to the woman he once loved.His voice trembled as he said, "You're my little girl. You're my daughter!"Nancy was about to erupt in fury.Heather let out a cold laugh. "What right do you have to claim her as your daughter? Have you already forgotten what you'd just said about her?"You and your wife have humiliated my daughter time and time again. I'll make sure you pay for it. Also, let me make it clear that my daughter only has one father, and that's Timothy Chapman! It will only ever be him."Charlie's face turned deathly pale.What had he just said?He had only echoed what Nancy said, but at that time, he didn't know that Willow was his daughter, his little girl.No
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 122
As expected, tonight's auction was a huge success.Several well-known collectors sent representatives to bid on selected items at high prices, causing a frenzy that quickly went viral online.Just like that, Insight's reputation skyrocketed.A round of applause erupted as Willow took the stage with a glass of champagne in hand to deliver the closing speech. "Thank you all for your unwavering support. In the future, Insight will continue to bring in valuable collections. Thank you all."The beautiful female host led the audience in applause.Willow set down her glass and took a deep bow on stage.Just as she was basking in the moment, a commotion arose from the crowd.A woman's voice rang out, "Willow only climbed to the top by sleeping her way there! Without Julian Ziegler, she'd still be a nobody.""The role of Mrs. Ziegler should have belonged to my poor daughter!"Amid the murmurs, Charlie, Nancy, Tyler, and Karen stepped onto the stage.Since both families' children were
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 121
At dusk, the setting sun shone through the black metal fence of the house in the southern suburbs, casting a warm light over the hydrangeas in the courtyard.Grace was lying on a reclining chair, enjoying the evening breeze.Maureen was carefully peeling oranges right next to her.Suddenly, a gleaming black car pulled outside the yard. Heather, supported by Timothy, stepped inside.Grace glanced up and smiled. "What brings you here? Are you looking for Willow?"Heather's hair was disheveled. She stumbled forward, falling to her knees beside Grace's chair.Holding back her emotions, her voice trembled as she asked, "Wistonia Lane… Madam Harper, you once lived there, paying a rent of 200 dollars a month. "In winter, there was no hot water. If you wanted a warm bath, you had to walk miles to a public bathhouse."Grace's expression changed.As if realizing something, she nodded heavily.Heather's nails dug into the chair as tears welled up in her eyes. "22 years ago, you took in
