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Chapter 43
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Leaving You Bereft Chapter 44
Julian took a slow drag of his cigarette before stepping into the VIP ward.Leonard happened to be inside, going over Grace's case.Seeing Julian walk in, he smiled and greeted him, "Perfect timing. We've finalized the surgical plan. All that's left is setting the date."Grace's condition was still fragile, so she needed more time to regain her strength. In the end, Leonard scheduled the surgery for two weeks later.Willow finally felt a sense of relief.Leonard had an old friend to catch up with, so Julian personally escorted him to the parking lot.On the way, Leonard couldn't stop praising Willow. Just before getting into the car, he clapped Julian on the shoulder and said, "You'd better treat her right. She's a good woman. Let this one slip, and you won't find another like her."Julian smiled slightly and held the car door open for him. "I hear you, Mr. Frost."Leonard smiled before getting in.A moment later, the sleek car slowly pulled away, brushing past Julian as it le
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 45
Inside the conference room, Julian was in the middle of leading a morning meeting when Esther walked in with a phone in hand.Julian shot her a questioning look before taking the phone.On the other end, Blair's voice came through. "Mr. Ziegler, Mrs. Ziegler's burning up. Her fever's at 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit. I'm really worried she won't be able to hold up."Blair might be exaggerating, but the concern in her words was genuine.Julian was about to respond when he noticed his executives watching him. He flashed a calm smile. "Willow's sick. She just called to ask me to come home early."The room fell silent.If they hadn't seen firsthand how badly things had gone between the couple not long ago, they might've actually believed him.Julian, satisfied with the little display, softly instructed Blair to take good care of Willow. He assured her that he would be home early. Every word carried the attentiveness of a devoted husband.Once he finished giving his instructions, he ende
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 46
Julian pushed open the bedroom door.The room was quiet, filled with the faint scent of Willow's perfume. On the bed, Willow lay curled up, seemingly asleep.He walked over and crouched down beside her. He brushed a few strands of hair from her face before placing a hand on her forehead.It was still warm.Willow stirred. Her fevered eyes fluttered open to meet his gaze. Her voice was soft, barely above a whisper. "You're home?"Julian's heart skipped an inexplicable beat.He cupped her face gently and nodded. "I told Blair to bring up some soup. Eat a little before you sleep again. Are you feeling very sick?"The way he touched her reminded her of how one would pet a small animal. She wasn't used to it.Reaching out, she pressed a hand to his forehead. He wasn't sick.Julian chuckled. "Is it so strange for me to be concerned? You used to complain that I wasn't attentive enough."Willow leaned against the headboard, her expression unreadable. "I needed that before but not any
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 47
Willow was still sick, so naturally, there was no way for them to be intimate.She went back to bed to rest.The sound of running water drifted from the bathroom. Julian was taking a shower. The steady stream was oddly soothing, and before she knew it, Willow had drifted off to sleep.Even in her dreams, Julian refused to leave her alone.When she woke up again, it was already 1:00 am.The bedroom was dimly lit by a single reading lamp. Julian was sitting against the headboard, reading through some important documents. His features were striking. Even in a simple white robe, he looked effortlessly refined. Willow found herself stealing a few extra glances.The subtle shift in the bed caught Julian's attention. He lowered his gaze to her. "You're awake?"Willow nodded. "What time is it?"Julian set down his documents, leaned back slightly, and wrapped an arm around her delicate shoulders. His voice carried a rare hint of warmth. "1:00 am."She wasn't used to this kind of tender
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 48
"I have an amazing wife. One could even say she's the perfect woman, but I don't love her. I can say for sure that I'm not attracted to her at all. I only slept with her to have a legitimate heir. However, I seem to be addicted to this relationship of ours. I've never felt desire in the past," Julian explained, confused.The doctor took some time to evaluate the situation before saying, "Mr. Ziegler, the first thing you need to do is decide whether you love her or not. It's impossible to be subjective or objective about relationships, especially with how unpredictable they can be."Julian frowned, dismissing that line of thought. He had someone he loved when he was younger, so he knew what loving someone felt like.After the consultation, he buttoned up his suit and left the clinic. Esther, who was waiting outside, saw him come out and asked, "Have you been unhappy lately, Mr. Ziegler?"Once they were in the car, Julian leaned against the backseat and muttered, "I'm too happy, actu
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 49
Julian walked over to Willow with a dark look in his eyes. "Why are you here?"Willow lifted her briefcase. "Not for a date."Julian's gaze deepened as he offered, "Come eat with us."Willow didn't spare his dignity, and she didn't even glance at Melody. Listlessly, she replied, "I'm quite full. Take your time talking to her, Julian. I'm heading home."Then, Julian grabbed her wrist with a frown. "Willow!"Willow let out an airy laugh. She looked at him and said, "Aren't you two talking business? I'm not that close-minded, you know. Our marriage is only contractual, anyway. Once the time is up, we'll go our separate ways. Who you spend your time with is none of my business."Julian's frown deepened. He knew Willow was only saying that out of anger, but it was irritating enough to make him lose his patience and stop trying to persuade her. He simply let her go.Willow had no intention of staying, so she turned and left without a second glance. She left Julian where he was, and hi
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 50
Julian leaned back in his leather chair in the CEO's office of Nebula Group. He was having a serious moment of introspection.Everything he did was for his marriage and to have a legitimate heir. He didn't hate Willow. In fact, he somewhat liked her. They had been getting along well in that aspect, at least. Men like him were animals with needs. If they were satisfied in bed, they would generally become much more generous.He was willing to treat her well, let her experience the benefits of a marriage, and show her what love felt like if that was what Willow wanted. That had nothing to do with actually loving her, though. He still didn't love her.While Julian was lost in thought, Esther knocked on the door before stepping in. "You have a call from Grandsburg, Mr. Ziegler."Julian took the phone and lowered his chin. "You can leave."Esther returned to the secretary's office while thinking, "Mr. Ziegler gets a call from Grandsburg once a week, and he flies there at least once a mo
Leaving You Bereft Chapter 51
Dressed in all black, Willow held a glass of red wine as she watched everything go down.Julian walked over to her, and she subtly raised her glass while lifting her chin. "Are you sure it's okay to do that? It seems like you're neglecting Ms. Simpson."Julian stared at her with a seductive look that only a mature man could pull off. A while later, he grabbed the glass in her hand and kissed her on the lips. "Should we get going, Mrs. Ziegler?"Before Willow could react, Julian had already grabbed her and dragged her out. It was a rather rude thing to do, but it was what he wanted. The chandelier shone down on them, casting a gorgeous silhouette.They could hear Melody yelling from behind them, "Julian!"For some reason, Willow smiled. Annoyed by the teasing, Julian took it out on her by pushing her against the wall and kissing her.The hotel corridor was a public space, and people could show up at any moment. Obviously, Willow was against it, so she tried to break free. However,
Pinakabagong kabanata
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
