The crowd was staring at them, as if they were expecting them to fight.Ivanka frowned. She looked at Chiara, puzzled, and asked, “What have I forgotten?”Rosie felt as if her heart was bleeding. She continued to clutch Ivanka’s hand tightly, as if it made her feel safe.Ivanka held Rosie’s hand and said softly, “Grandma, I will always stay with you. Always!”Rosie could not help but sigh. When she closed her eyes, tears dripped onto the table.It hurt Samuel’s heart. “Rosie, pull yourself together!” he exclaimed emphatically.Rosie remained silent, as if she was trying to keep her emotions under control.Michael took Rosie’s other hand and called her. “Grandma.”He did not say anything more, but it had given her enough comfort.He did, however, cast a stern look at Ivanka!He already sensed that something was wrong with Ivanka just now. If he still could not see that she had something to do with what happened, he was no better than a fool!He thought, “How could she betray
She closed her eyes. It was as if she had decided not to say anything more. Chiara was instantly relieved. There was finally nothing she could say to defend herself! She hurriedly stepped forward and said to Rosie, “Grandma, it’s also my fault. If I had gotten to the bottom of it, this wouldn’t have happened. It’s my fault. Grandma, please forgive Iv. She is still young.” “She is still young?” Mindy sneered in anger. “She’s in her twenties. How is she still young?” Mindy had always disliked Ivanka and picked on her. However, she only picked on her at home in the past. After what happened, Rosie was so upset and distraught. She could take advantage of the situation to reprimand Ivanka by acting like a filial daughter-in-law and standing up for Rosie. “Iv, you’ve been our family for three years,” she lamented. “Regardless of how others treated you, think about how Grandma has been treating you. She wishes she could give you the entire world. How did you repay her? What have y
Chiara shook her head involuntarily. “I didn’t…” Catherine was enraged. She finally realized what was going on. She clenched her teeth and said, “This was obviously a set up by Ivanka! She purposefully stated in front of us that this is a gift for Grandma. She duped us into thinking she was going to give it to Grandma! We assumed this was the style Grandma preferred. That’s why Chiara went to such lengths to find it, but...” They had no choice but to tell the truth at this point in order to clear things up. Sandy, on the other hand, simply snorted. “My grandmother adores rosaries with intricate patterns like this. Iv and I are practically sisters. My grandmother had just only celebrated her birthday yesterday, and this is the gift Iv bought for her! You, on the other hand, chose to copy Iv’s idea instead of figuring out what you could give Mdm. Barkworth as a gift. Aren’t you ashamed of yourselves?” Ivanka shook her head as she looked at Sandy. “Stop it, Sandy.” Her voice was
Sandy’s father’s legs were quivering! “Stop talking already, you brat!” He thought. “However, Mdm. Barkworth might be pleased to see her reprimand Chiara.” If he stopped her, he would only downright offend the Barkworth family!Chiara vigorously shook her head. “No, I didn’t! I was hoping Iv would give Grandma more than just a rosary! That’s why I prepared a few more! I’m not trying to steal her limelight!”Sandy sneered. “Is that what you meant when you said you and Iv think alike? Your explanation is futile!”Rosie was enraged at this point. “I’ll let you off the hook this time just because you saved Michael before,” she said through gritted teeth. “But, if you truly want to extend my life for a few more years, stop coming to my birthday parties. Every time you do, you’ll remind me of what you did today and how much you’ve hurt my feelings!”Chiara sucked in a sharp breath and staggered slightly. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she shook her head sadly. “I-I didn’t mean it th
”Both are willing participants in this whole fiasco,” Xander said coolly after a brief silence. Ivan immediately realized what he meant. “You should call it ‘karma’s a b*tch,’” he said, amused.…… At that moment, Ivanka had helped Rosie into the lounge. When she saw an upset Rosie sitting on the chair, she slowly sat next to her and spoke softly, “Grandma, I know every year on this day you’ll feel sad, but it has been so many years now. Has time not helped you move on?”Rosie’s heart was immediately in turmoil. She instinctively raised her head and looked at Ivanka. “Iv, this is something I’ll never get over. You’ve never experienced it. You won’t understand…” Before she could finish, Ivanka held Rosie’s hand tightly and said solemnly, “Grandma, do you know why I went all the way to a church in the mountain and got you a gold cross?”Rosie was stunned. Ivanka continued. “I’ve got it for you in the hopes that you’ll be at peace and live a long life.”Rosie sighed and said, “Oh
Ivanka’s head shot up to look at Rosie. “Grandma, he’s back… as Michael.”Rosie’s sad facade cracked. “You brat! You…!”In the next moment, Rosie shook her head helplessly and sighed. “Girl, I know you’re trying to comfort me. But twisting facts to this extent is just—”Before she could finish speaking, Ivanka looked at her resolutely and said, “Grandma, you know Pastor Paul, don’t you? You know he’ll never lie. A man of God doesn’t lie. You might not trust me, but you have to trust Pastor Paul. How about this? You and I will meet him at the cathedral tomorrow. Then, you can listen to what he has to say in person.”“St. John Cathedral? It’s a place with a huge significance in our community.” Rosie thought. She then looked at Ivanka in shock. “Iv, you…” Ivanka smiled plainly and said, “Grandma, let’s go together. Let’s meet this pastor, and you’ll know. He might not be destined to be your son, but maybe, he’s meant to be your grandson. He’s still considered your flesh and blood
Rosie cocked an eyebrow in curiosity. “That makes sense. But it’s just too outlandish…”Grandma believed in the existence of God. That was why Ivanka dared use this method to deceive her. If anyone else had heard it, they would think that she was saying something irresponsible. “Grandma, the world is big and filled with amazing things. You have to believe Pastor Paul!” “Pastor Paul is indeed a great pastor. Let’s go and meet him tomorrow and see if he’s free.”Ivanka smiled and nodded. “So… Grandma, today’s your birthday, and Michael is still waiting for you outside. Don’t you want to see through your party to the end? There are many guests outside, too.”She felt more relaxed now. She was overjoyed because her plan had succeeded. “It worked! Grandma is letting go of her burden soon.” She thought. “Okay, let’s go.” Now, Rosie’s mood had clearly improved. She instantly felt like seeing her grandson. With that, Ivanka supported Rosie as they went out together. The guests
Rosie was touched. “Honey…”She thought Samuel had forgotten how they felt toward each other in the past. Samuel sighed. “Come. Give my cake a taste and let me know if it still tastes the same.”Ivanka smiled as she watched Samuel hold Rosie’s hand as they walked to the table.She looked around and noticed Catherine had stayed. Now, she no longer looked as prideful as before. She then shifted her gaze to Sandy. She was enjoying the drinks and food with her friends. Everyone was enjoying the party. However, Michael suddenly looked at Ivanka. “Come with me.”He headed out right after he said this. Ivanka frowned. Although she was reluctant, she knew she had to follow him to talk to him about what happened earlier to prevent Rosie from finding out what she did.Some people who saw that the divorced couple went out together again became suspicious. Michael did not turn to see whether Ivanka came, because he heard her coming after him. He only stopped and turned to look a
Ivanka did not pay him any mind and got into the car. If Michael dared to chase after her again, she would most definitely kick him out of the car! She would do what she said she would!Michael did not catch up, but he blocked her with his arms wide open. His stance was clear: You can leave. But over my dead body! Ivanka could not possibly drive over Michael. But it was not a problem for Michael to keep blocking her way. Plus, she had just politely rejected his parents. So, it was even more impossible for her to turn back. Ivanka ran out of patience. She held her forehead and frowned. Michael had already drained her last bit of patience. She never imagined that Michael would actually cling to her to such an extent! How would she put it? All her positivity had been drained clean! “Michael, your parents are still at home. Aren’t you afraid they’ll see and laugh at you? I know Grandpa and Grandma are standing by our side now. It’s not like you and I haven’t been in
Ivanka would neither accept the carrot nor the stick approach. Michael had no choice but to persuade her with reason and win her over with affection. Ivanka snorted. “Have you ever given me a chance to have a meal with you before this? As the saying goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day. It takes time for things to come to this state. Things might have passed for you but not for me!” Ivanka’s gaze was razor-sharp. Michael felt his heart clench up. At that moment, his throat was in so much pain that he did not know what else to say to her. Ivanka did not wait for his response. She pushed away his hand and headed out without hesitation. Michael did not stop her. Nonetheless, he went after her and followed behind her. Meanwhile, they heard the sound from the kitchen. Mindy prepared dinner in the kitchen, and Jay helped her out. They had heard their conversation. Out of courtesy, Ivanka went to the kitchen and greeted them. She said with a smile, “Uncle Jay, Aunt Mindy, I’m
Ivanka clenched her fists. Her gaze was filled with ferocity. She looked like she was really going to punch Michael. Michael noticed the anger in her eyes. But since the person was none other than Ivanka, he was willing to take the beating. He even took a step forward and held his head high. “Strike me if you want.” “You!” Ivanka glared at Michael. He truly annoyed her. She reminded herself to keep her composure. She sucked in a deep breath before saying, “Michael, I’ve treated you with respect. You’d better behave yourself.” Right after she finished the sentence, Ivanka left. Before she even took a step forward, Michael grabbed her. “My mom is preparing the dishes inside the kitchen. If you leave now, you’re not showing me any respect. Please stay around to have dinner. Even though we’re already divorced, and it’s impossible for us to get back together again, we’re still friends,” said Michael. Haha! He had been adamant. He was using the same approach to draw close
Mindy’s expression instantly darkened. “What’s with us being prejudiced against her? Had I ever targeted her when she married Michael from the beginning? “She knew how well Rosie had treated her. It’s her own fault for failing to bond with Mic. How could you blame us?” Mindy had always disliked Ivanka. She believed Samuel’s intervention had been the reason for their marriage. It was an arranged marriage. There was no need for the Barkworth’s family to have an arranged marriage. At the end of the day, it was all up to Samuel to choose the bride for Michael. Ever since Ivanka married Michael, aside from the deliberate arrangements, they had hardly shown up together as a couple in public. Mindy did not have any particularly hard feelings for Ivanka. She believed the two would live happily together after getting married. After they divorced, Mindy thought Michael could start all over again. But she did not expect to see their current relationship was no different from when they
It was Jay and Mindy. When Ivanka saw them, a thought came across her mind. She took out a syringe and inserted it into Michael’s arm to unmute him. Michael felt like he had been stung by a bee. It was as though he had been put in jail, only to be freed all of a sudden. Ivanka took away the syringe and gave him a glance with displeasure. “Get out of the car now. Your parents are here—” “Aren’t you entering the house?” Before Ivanka finished her sentence, Michael interrupted her. When he looked at her, his eyes were filled with sincerity and seriousness. But Ivanka rejected him coldly. “Quick! Get out of the car! I’m not joking with you. Get out now!” “Let’s go in together. After all, you’re already here. Are you worried about seeing them?” Michael was undaunted by her emotions and tone. Instead, he stretched out his hand to try to grab Ivanka. Nonetheless, she avoided him with ease. Meanwhile, Jay and Mindy saw them. They walked over to them. Mindy glanced at th
It was no wonder Jonah asked for so many details. All these were facts.Ivanka did not avoid answering his questions. She gave a light smile. “The longest will be half a year.”If the treatment was ineffective after half a year, she would go to Silvania with Vincent.After all, it was not just about her.Upon learning of Ivanka’s decision, Jonah smiled wryly. “Iv, I don’t think it’s an easy feat to treat my legs. How about you go and deal with your stuff first? You can always treat my legs afterward.”Ivanka initially planned to do it that way. But George, Florence, and Margaret had interrupted her plan.Since she had returned to Bostone, why was there a need to travel back and forth again?She might as well treat Jonah’s legs.Besides, Vincent had informed her that it would be highly uncertain whether they could still return to their home country after arriving at Silvania.Ivanka said, “No. I don’t want to make so many trips. I’ll treat your legs for half a year and see if i
It was not an overstatement to say Michael was crossing the line. Nonetheless, Ivanka could not just sit there and watch the two men get into a conflict. Hence, Ivanka pulled Michael to the side and glanced at him. “If you don’t want to be kicked out, you’d better wait here.” But Michael was undaunted by Jonah. Although Jonah had the power to rebuke him in his own territory, Michael refused to allow Jonah to get the upper hand. Ivanka saw the determination in Michael’s eyes. She was very worried that the two might get into a fight. She quickly pulled him back. “Stop making me worry about you. Just wait here! If you dare to come after me, I’ll…” Although she did not finish her sentence, her intention was clear enough. If Michael disobeyed her, she would make him a statue! Understanding this, Michael did not follow Ivanka. But when Jonah turned around and left, the provocation in his eyes was evident. Still, Michael listened to Ivanka. He did not want to offend her. He
Jonah narrowed his eyes while questioning Michael. Still, Michael did not respond to him. Ivanka pursed her lips. She looked displeased when she answered Jonah, “Jonah, there’s no need to speak so harshly. Do you still want me to treat your legs?” She had temporarily made Michael mute. She did that to stop Michael from talking endlessly about those things. Nonetheless, he had still insisted on coming along with her, only to end up being targeted by Jonah. Ivanka had no intention of making Michael mute in front of Jonah. Upon hearing Ivanka’s words, Jonah looked at where she currently stood. She stood in front of Michael. It looked like she was trying to protect him more. As the saying went, true love was portrayed in hard times. This saying was true indeed. It was true that Ivanka cared about Michael. Jonah said gently to Ivanka, “I want you to treat my legs, and I only speak harshly to specific people. I already showed him much respect when he barged into my terri
Michael remained resolute.Ivanka rolled her eyes. “Then stay stubborn. I’ll only fix it when you stop pushing me away.”After she was done speaking, she turned to leave.Michael followed.He even opened the passenger door and got in her car. He was determined to follow her.But Ivanka would not go easy on him.Once inside, she warned him coldly, “Not being able to speak is harder than you think. Follow if you want. Michael, are you sure about this?”Even after her warning, he kept staring straight ahead.She said nothing more and started the engine.Within half an hour, she arrived at Jonah’s mansion.Jonah came out to greet her personally. The moment Ivanka parked the car, Jonah immediately spotted Michael in the passenger seat.The sight of him stirred up bitterness in Jonah. Yet there was nothing he could do.Before Ivanka exited the car, she said to Michael, “Wait here.”Without glancing at him, she walked straight toward Jonah.Her attitude made Michael decide t