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Chapter 30
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Leaving You Bereft Chapter 31
Willow was deeply grateful to Heather.Just as she was hesitating, a call came from the Ziegler family. Dominic wanted to see her.Liam was the one who called. The Ziegler family was strict about etiquette. Since Willow was Dominic's guest, even Liam, her father-in-law, spoke to her with formal courtesy.He said, "No matter what's going on between you and Julian, you should still come see my dad. You know he's always been fond of you."Willow agreed.…Early winter had arrived.The courtyard of the Ziegler residence was beautiful all year round.Willow parked her car and stepped out, only to see Liam already waiting for her. The fact that he came in person to escort her to Dominic showed how much this meeting mattered.On the way, he made polite conversation, carefully avoiding any mention of Julian.Willow did the same.When they reached Dominic's study, Victoria appeared and whispered something to Liam. As they spoke, Willow studied her features.When Victoria left, Willo
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 32
Willow struggled briefly. "I haven't decided yet."Julian said, "Then decide now."Her voice turned cold. "Is this a threat or an enticement? Don't take me for a fool, Julian."Before he could respond, Dominic's voice rang out from inside. "If you two are going to flaunt your love, take it somewhere else. Don't rub it in the face of a lonely old man like me."A long silence followed.Julian looked down at Willow, then took her hand and led her toward his car. "I'm taking you to see Mr. Frost."It wasn't until she got in that Willow realized it was that black Maybach—the one they had driven during their first two years of marriage. Back then, they relied on each other and had no one else. There were too many unforgettable memories between them.She let out a soft smile.Julian really would do anything to get what he wanted.After buckling her seatbelt, she said lightly, "Don't think that just because you're helping with Grandma, I'll come running back to you."Julian glanced a
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 33
Willow didn't refuse. She got up from the bench and poured Julian a glass of water. Sitting next to the bed, she handed it to him and said calmly, "You've been asleep for two hours. It's almost 4:00 pm now.""Are you in a hurry? Got a date?"Julian took the glass and set it down on the bedside table. Then, without warning, he pulled Willow into his embrace. Their bodies pressed together through the thin cashmere coat.His body was hard and warm. Willow squirmed uncomfortably, letting out a protest. "Let go of me."But Julian wasn't going to release her.His voice carried a hoarse, seductive quality from the alcohol as he whispered against her ear, "Have you decided about us?"Willow didn't want to talk about it, but Julian was relentless.As he kissed her, his face flushed with a slight tilt of his chin. His entire being exuded a sensual air. He caressed her soft waist, demanding that she give him an answer right then and there.Willow feared he might push things too far.She
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 34
At 8:00 pm, Willow and Julian returned to Grandview Manor.Time had passed, and things felt different.The housekeepers, who had always liked Willow, were already lined up at the entrance to welcome her back. Their faces were full of joy."Welcome back, Mrs. Ziegler.""Congratulations for making up, Mr. and Mrs. Ziegler.""Will you dine together? The kitchen has everything prepared."Willow smiled faintly, but there was a touch of exhaustion in her eyes.Julian gently wrapped his arm around her, playing the role of a considerate husband. He instructed the housekeepers, "She'll rest for a bit. We'll have dinner in an hour."After the housekeepers left, Julian looked down at Willow and spoke gently, "You've had a long day. How about a shower?"Willow nodded, her attitude still distant.Julian usually had a short temper, but tonight, he kept it in check.…Upstairs, in the master bedroom, Willow surveyed the room.Everything she had destroyed before had been fixed, and the we
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 35
It had been ages since Willow had taken the initiative to hold Julian.He lowered his eyes. His long lashes trembled ever so slightly with an unspoken intensity.Half an hour later, Julian's car pulled up in front of a luxurious apartment building.Catherine had finally left that old villa behind and was now living in a 2,800‑square‑foot apartment. Her days were filled with nothing more than clocking in at Nebula Group, followed by endless beauty treatments and shopping sprees. It was a textbook existence for a kept mistress.Esther had been waiting for quite some time.As soon as Julian's car came to a stop, she opened the door for him.Stepping out, Julian frowned slightly. "What's she up to now?"Esther only managed a helpless smile. "You wouldn't return her calls, so she's been refusing to eat or drink, even breaking things. Not even Mr. and Mrs. Burke can handle her anymore."Julian paused in his steps. "The doctors can't do anything? Have they tried a nutritional boost, o
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 36
Julian returned to Grandview Manor late at night. As his car rolled to a stop, he looked up at the second-floor master bedroom.The lights were already out.He stared into the darkness for a moment, then unfastened his seatbelt and stepped out of the car.Blair, who was on night duty, came forward, looking somewhat surprised. "Mr. Ziegler, you're back? Mrs. Ziegler just went to bed. Would you like a late-night snack?"Julian answered indifferently, "A bowl of instant noodles will do."Blair was pleased for Willow that Julian had chosen to return home. Rubbing her hands together, she headed for the kitchen.Julian shrugged off his coat and tossed it over the back of the couch. While waiting for his meal, he picked up his phone to handle a few work emails. But before long, he found himself scrolling through his photo gallery instead.Blair returned with the noodles. She stole a glance at the screen and said with a smile, "Mrs. Ziegler looks even more beautiful than before."Julia
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 37
In the bathroom, Willow splashed cold water on her face, trying to cool her overheated skin.She stared at her reflection in the mirror, momentarily dazed.The woman looking back at her felt almost unfamiliar. Her hair was tousled, her soft skin was nearly glowing, and her lips were slightly swollen from Julian's kisses.Willow reached up and touched her face. Was this really her?…Since then, life at Grandview Manor turned out to be better than she had expected.Julian had kept his promise. Willow received the 500 million dollars in cash, along with a 5% stake in Nebula Group. His decision caused an uproar within the Ziegler family. Even his parents couldn't understand it.But Julian bore the weight of it all.He treated Willow well—too well. He didn't force her to sleep with him, as if giving her time to adjust.He often called to have meals with her, though sometimes he would break his promises.Willow never asked where he went or who he was with. Just as they had agreed
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 38
Being perceptive, Esther led the styling team out, leaving the spacious room to just Julian and Willow.Julian turned Willow around, his palm pressing gently against her cheek. He traced over her skin with slow, deliberate strokes. For the first time, he took the time to truly study her face."Are you cold?"His eyes locked onto hers, filled with a quiet intensity.Willow smiled faintly. "I'll wear a coat outside."Julian didn't let her go. His hands wandered to her waist, feeling the fabric against her skin.She looked beautiful tonight; so beautiful that he didn't want her stepping out of this room, especially not in front of other men.It had been a week since she returned, yet they hadn't truly become one. He had been holding back for too long, and now, the restraint was wearing thin.But Willow refused. She tilted her head back and gently closed her eyes. "You'll ruin the dress."Julian exhaled slowly, frustration flickering across his features.Without warning, he caugh
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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
