Emily's hand rested in Ivan's arm.
This was her first time attending a dinner with Ivan, a moment she had been anticipating for four years.She knew that Keith must have talked to Ivan, which is why this man was bringing her to such an important business dinner.Tonight, she had gone all out to dress up.She wore a sparkling ocean starlight gown worth $800,000, paired with Coco's limited edition diamond necklace. She also carried a unique customized leather bag, making her the most dazzling woman at the banquet.Emily lifted her chin, accepting the gazes of the crowd.People in this circle knew that Ivan did not often attend business dinners, and if he did, he always went alone.This was the first time they had seen Ivan with a female companion.The DeRoss Group in Cuenca was quite well-known, and coupled with the recent news, many recognized Emily DeRoss as the woman beside Ivan."When did Emily DeRoss get involved with Ivan?""WasnThe fact that Ivan introduced her to the heavyweight client of the Winston family signaled that Ivan considered her as one of them.Thinking about this, a brighter smile bloomed on Emily's face. "Mr. Robinson, you really are quite handsome," she casually complimented Liam Robinson.Pleased by the beautiful woman's praise, Liam Robinson was almost beaming. He modestly replied,"Miss DeRoss, you are the real beauty. In all the parties I've attended in Cuenca, this is the first time I've seen someone more beautiful than the stars in the sky..."Emily's eyes curved with her smile. What woman wouldn't enjoy receiving such compliments, especially from a successful individual like him? She lowered her head, pursed her lips, and adopted a coquettish demeanor.Ivan drank most of the wine in his glass and calmly said,"Miss DeRoss has just been discharged from the hospital and is still feeling unwell. I would appreciate it, Mr. Robinson, if could take care of her."
Ivan took a turn outside and returned to the banquet hall, only to see numerous men surrounding a woman.This woman had fair skin, and the light falling on her face gave it a subtle pink hue. Her plump, red lips emitted a hint of shine.She wore a simple white dress with a fitted bodice that accentuated her perfect curves. Her slender, fair legs stood on high heels, with distinct ankle bones and round toes.Ivan suddenly understood why some people were interested in women's feet; because some people's feet were undeniably captivating.He took a sip of his drink, reluctantly withdrawing his gaze, only to see Haley holding a dazzling smile on her face while chatting happily with seven or eight men.An indescribable emotion rose within him.By the time he reacted, he was already standing in front of Haley.Ivan naturally possessed a powerful presence, especially when he remained silent with his calm expression, intensifying his aura.The people who had b
Haley:"???" If she remembers correctly, Emily is infatuated with good-looking men! If Mr. Robinson was even slightly handsome, she might have reluctantly believed Ivan's words. But based on her understanding of Emily, there's no way she would be interested in a bald man. Ivan looked at Haley with increasing disdain in his eyes. He took a sip of his drink and decisively changed the topic, saying,"How is Angela doing?" After that woman took the little girl away last time, she didn't even make a phone call. He was a little worried about Angela's condition. Haley initially wanted to say it was none of his business. But last time, it was indeed this man who took Angela upstairs, bathed her, and changed her clothes. She pursed her crimson lips and said quietly,"She's fine." "I know a specialist in treating children with autism. Would you like to take Angela to see him?" Ivan spoke in a low voice. "Angela is speaking now, which indicat
"Haley, I missed you..." Owen sobbed and held Haley's neck tightly, sobbing on her shoulder.Hearing the crying, Todd came out, and his expression turned cold when he saw Owen. "You're still here? Why haven't you left yet?"Haley held Owen, furrowing her brows. "What's going on?""Haley, I came to find you, but he wouldn't let me in and chased me out..." Owen sobbed, "I missed Haley, missed my little sister, Angela. I just wanted to see you. I wouldn't do anything bad..."Todd's temple throbbed. An hour ago, Owen knocked on the door and insisted on entering the house. He had already sent Uncle Justin's assistant home, so there were only him and Angela in the house. How could he let a stranger inside?He forcefully closed the door, thinking Owen would take the hint and leave.Unexpectedly, Owen had been waiting at the door for an hour, and even more surprisingly, he had complained to his mother...Haley's head was starting to ache a little.Owen W
She couldn't understand why Owen was always clinging to her. As she looked at Owen's pitiful little face, she suddenly thought of what happened last night. Angela snuck out of the preschool just to find Ivan. And Owen snuck out of his house to find her... Why would that be? Haley racked her brain but couldn't figure it out. She touched Owen's hair, which was full of withered leaves and dust from the flower bed. Helplessly, she picked up the little guy. "Your dad should be here in another twenty minutes. Let me take you inside for a bath first." Ivan had helped Angela take a bath, so she would do the same for Owen, and everything would be settled. Just as she stood up, Todd followed behind and said lightly,"Mommy, he’s four years old, he can bathe by himself." Owen, smelling the comforting fragrance emanating from Haley, was reluctant to let go. He held onto Haley's neck tightly. "I don't know how to bathe or undress, Haley, help me!"
Who bullied you?" Todd sneered coldly,"You can't even handle the water, and you blame me?"In front of Haley and Heidi, he had always been a well-behaved and considerate guy.But at this moment, his expression was somewhat similar to Ivan's.There was a hint of coldness in his sneer, and his eyes showed some mockery.Owen, who was usually fearless, couldn't help but flush with anger.He came to find Haley; not to be bullied!He was the mischievous devil of the Winston family, and he had never been treated like this before in his life.He got out of the bathtub and quickly went to the door.Todd blocked his way and said,"If you promise me something, I'll let you go out."Owen wanted to fight him in anger.But being naked, he had already lost half of his presence.Through gritted teeth, he said,"How could such an evil child be born to someone as gentle as Haley?"Todd chuckled.Yes, he was indeed an evil person.He disguised hims
Todd's fingers tightened.This was the first time, as far as he could remember, that Mommy spoke to him with a reproachful tone.All because of Owen.Todd pursed his lips and lowered his head, admitting his mistake,"I'm sorry, Mommy, I was wrong.""Todd, you go downstairs and tell your sister a story. I'll help Owen with his shower."Haley carried Owen into the bathroom and closed the door behind her.Todd stared at the door for a moment, then turned around and went downstairs.Ten minutes later, Haley came downstairs, holding Owen who had finished his shower. "Todd, I let him wear your clothes. You don't mind, do you?"Todd obediently responded,"Owen, this outfit suits you well. Consider it an apology gift from me."Owen turned his head away.He didn't want to wear Todd's clothes at all, but if he didn't, he would either be naked or have to wear Angela's skirt.Haley lightly tapped his little head,"Todd has apologized to you. What should
Ivan stood outside the villa.From his angle, he could see the living room perfectly.Under the dim warm light, the three children sat on the playmat, playing puzzles together.Haley sat on the sofa, tapping on her laptop, occasionally looking up at the three children, a gentle smile on her lips.This scene was too heartwarming, and Ivan couldn't bear to disrupt it.He pressed his lips together and still pressed the doorbell."Ding-dong—"Haley looked up and put down her laptop to open the door.She looked at the man in front of her, dressed in cold attire, and paused before saying,"Mr. Winston, this is the second time your son has come to see me."Ivan didn't say anything.If he calculated carefully, this must be the seventh or eighth time.There were a few times when Alfred intercepted him, and a few times when the kid came over when no one was home...However, he wouldn't say these words to this woman.He stood at the door and s
After a thorough read, she folded the document and spoke up, her voice indifferent, "Kid, who drafted this contract?""Our young master did," replied Russell, “Ms. DeRoss, if everything looks fine to you, the contract will take effect once you sign it."Haley chuckled. She was striking, exuding a bewitching charm.And yet, within the depths of her clear eyes, there was a peculiar blend of innocence and mystery.Keith felt his defenses soften and his detachment give way when he saw her smile. It was as if a hole had been poked through his armor of indifference.Realizing too late that he had been staring at Haley for a while, frustration surged within him.This woman must have used that same smile to ensnare Dad and confuse Owen..."I see a problem," she said, her smile vanishing.She leaned forward, a sense of authority emanating from her.Looking Keith straight in the eye, her lips twisted into a disdainful curve, "You should be in school at your age, not out here trying to show off.
Transmedia Tech, an internet media company.Two years ago, there were rumors of its bankruptcy, and after being acquired, it suddenly came back to life and became a leading player in the internet industry.However, there is not much information about this company on the internet.Haley glanced at Transmedia Tech's profile and said lightly, "What time did they make an appointment?""Half past two, at Pennie Coffee."After finishing her work in the morning, Haley drove straight to Pennie Coffee.She arrived ten minutes early, ordered a cup of coffee, and began to read the information on the internet.She searched for the company again, but she still couldn't find much info, and even the investor info behind it had been removed.It can be seen that this company has a lot of connections.She just didn’t know why this company would take a fancy to her newly opened studio.Haley waited for about five minutes before she heard footsteps outside the private room.She straightened her collar an
Keith thought that Haley had also planned to gain the trust of the entire Winston family through Owen. This woman's quite a schemer. Keith knew he had to be cautious......Haley picked up the kids and went home. When she was cooking dinner, she received a video call from Owen."Haley, why didn't you come to see me?" Owen's voice was still weak, "I'm so bored here in the hospital all alone. Could you come keep me company? I want to hear stories..."Haley shook the ladle in her hand, "It's too late today; I'll come see you tomorrow and bring you some cookies I've baked.""You're the best, Haley!" Owen's enthusiasm was palpable.Haley’s lips curled into a smile, "Get some rest now, and don't stay up too late, okay?""How about a goodnight kiss, then?" Owen puckered his lips towards the phone screen, a bandage still wrapped around his head, looking both pitiful and comically adorable.Laughing, Haley pressed a kiss to her phone screen and then ended the call.Carrying the freshly stewed
"The timing is too perfect, isn't it?" Keith said slowly, "Owen got in a car accident, and Haley just happened to be there and then saved him by donating her blood to him. What a coincidence!"His voice was deep and raspy, unlike a four-year-old boy.Ivan's eyes narrowed, "You think Haley staged the accident?""She had a motive," Keith pressed his lips together firmly and continued, "Surely you're aware of the bad blood between Mom and Haley...""It wasn't her," Ivan stated flatly.He had already been briefed on the accident. It was indeed premeditated. Someone had the audacity to target his son. But that someone couldn't possibly be Haley."Dad, are you so certain it isn't this woman when the investigation is still ongoing?" Keith's voice chilled, "What if it turns out to actually be Haley?""She wouldn't hurt Owen," Ivan looked at him with conviction. "She saved your brother; you shouldn't suspect her."Darkness crept into Keith's eyes.His moth
Taking a deep breath, he said, "Don't worry, Mom, I'll have someone look into it. I won't let anyone hurt Owen."After she voluntarily donated blood to save Owen, it's unlikely she'd attempt anything against him again anytime soon..." Emily's voice was husky and choked with emotion. "Now that she's gained your dad's trust, I’m sure she'll make her move... Keith, I’m really scared she’ll hurt you or Owen. I’d rather she came after me...""It won't happen."Keith ended the phone call.He turned to his assistant, Russell, and said coolly, “Check out that car accident near the DeRoss Group building. See what that was all about.”Russell nodded, “Will do, Mr. Winston.”He pulled out his phone and started making calls...Keith instructed his driver, "To the hospital."As the car glided smoothly down the road, they hadn't even reached the hospital when Russell received a call from the traffic police.The majority of the time, Maple Street is congested, w
Keith had been involved in the family business since the age of three.The company under his operation, Transmedia Tech, was a subsidiary that the Winston Group had planned to divest from two years ago.He took over the day before its planned bankruptcy.Now, after a year of shrewd management, Transmedia had become one of the top three most profitable subsidiaries of Winston Group.Keith, having just finished a meeting, felt a nagging unrest.He was usually a calm person, but his current anxiety exposed a vulnerability reflective of a four-year-old child."Young Master, you've pretty much wrapped up all your work for today. Perhaps you should head back and rest?" suggested his young assistant, Russell, with due respect.Keith shook his head.He sensed discomfort.Had something happened to Owen?He was about to reach for his phone to call Alfred when his phone began to vibrate.He glanced at it. The incoming call was from his mother.Ti
It seemed he didn't really mind the idea of marrying this woman...Haley, with her acute senses, caught Ivan's stare and quickly changed the subject.Her eyes shifted to Owen and she spoke with authoritative firmness, “It might not hurt now, but once the anesthesia wears off, you’re going to be in tears from the pain. You’ll understand then just how terrifying a car accident can be! Owen, if you ever want to see me again, just give me a call. I'll come pick you up myself. If you dare sneak out like you did today, I won't come to see you ever again!”Her face stern, she emphasized each word, her tone leaving no room for protest.Tears pooled in Owen's eyes as he looked at Haley with a plaintive expression, “I won’t ever do it again, Haley... I just missed you too much, I couldn't help myself. I just wanted you to hug and kiss me...”His big eyes were brimming with sorrow, making him look like a forlorn puppy.Haley's heart softened, and she bent down to plant
Chapter 181Ivan took a seat on the other side of the bed.He stated calmly, "Alfred, get some sports drinks, please."Alfred promptly went to carry out the request.In the hospital room, aside from the slumbering Owen, only the two of them remained, surrounded by the sterile scent of disinfectant.With a muted voice, Ivan said, "Thank you for this. Whatever you need, just tell me.""I have a soft spot for Owen. I was more than willing to save him, and…" Haley's voice faltered, a slight bitterness on her tongue, "he must have snuck out to find me. That's how he got into an accident..."Her voice trailed off, her gaze lowered, shielding all emotions.Ivan paused before saying, "He's really fond of you."A gentle smile curled on Haley's lips.Looking at Owen resting in the hospital bed, she couldn't help but reach out and gently touch his face. She felt an immediate warmth towards him when she first saw him at the airport. Owen kept coming back
His opened his mouth, about to speak, but his phone began to vibrate in his palm, displaying Alfred's name.The sight of Alfred's name sent a sharp pain through Ivan's heart.Whenever Alfred reached out, it was always a matter of urgency.With Owen in surgery and Alfred calling, could it mean…The typically composed man's fingers trembled, requiring two attempts to tap the answer button."Sir, Owen's going to be alright!" Alfred exclaimed, choked with joy, "The surgery's nearly finished and doctors say he should wake up by tonight if all goes well!"Ivan felt a great relief.He walked briskly towards the hospital, concurrently asking, "How was the blood resolved?"He'd made calls, but a resolution couldn't have come this fast."Sir, you might not know yet, but Miss DeRoss, Owen's aunt Haley — she's got the negative blood type!" Alfred rushed out his words, "When Owen had his accident, Haley was there, she brought him to the hospital, and she volun