"How did you meet her?" Shawn's deep voice resonated with curiosity."Huh?" Mia looked up, puzzled by the unexpected question.What was he talking about?"You said she's not your birth mother, so how did you two cross paths?" He calmly inquired once more.Mia's eyes blinked repeatedly, and she took a deep breath as her mind strolled down memory lane.She began, "My dad brought in a woman and a daughter a few months older than me right after my mom was buried. It was devastating. From the moment they stepped into our house, I knew no peace. Three years ago, one night, I left home with the determination never to return." She paused and then continued, "Tears streamed down my face as I ran along the roadside with no destination in mind. Just as I kept running, I came across a burning vehicle."Shawn inhaled sharply, his heart pounding in his chest."An accident happened... Shattered glass scattered on the ground... Fear gripped me. Without a phone to call the police and the area eerily s
Mia realized that over the last three years, she had unknowingly been tending to her husband's mother—her mother-in-law. The realization left her incredulous. Despite processing the information over and over again, it felt like an enduring, surreal dream.Suddenly, Shawn's arms enveloped her shoulders from behind, causing her to freeze. ‘What’s going on?’"Thank you," he whispered in his husky voice, his minty breath sending a shiver down her spine as the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end.Each time Mia hurried to the hospital, even on every weekend, it was all for his mother. Shawn couldn't help but feel gratitude."Thank you," he whispered once more.___________The couple stayed in the ward until the next morning. Mia dozed off after a few hours of tending to her mother-in-law, while Shawn remained awake throughout the night until daybreak.Doctor Alfred and his colleagues came to check on the patient five times throughout the night before dawn, ensuring she was perfectl
After Jennifer's discharge, she, along with her son and daughter-in-law, drove home to Magnificent residential area. Upon arrival, the vehicle pulled up directly in front of the front door, making it easy for the three of them to enter the mansion swiftly.When they entered the lounge, Old Master Mandez, with an anxious, hunched back, couldn't hold back tears as his eyes met his daughter-in-law. Early that morning, Shawn had called and informed him of the latest development, prompting him to rush straight to his grandson's house in anticipation.Jennifer burst into tears as she hurried forward and embraced the old man."I never thought I'd see you again. It's been so long; I thought you were dead..." Old Master Mandez's voice hitched, his hand gently patting her back."I'm not dead, Father. This is me, hale and hearty." She sniffled.The pair shed tears of joy, embracing for an extended moment before parting.Amanda, who had been standing on the side, broke into tears as soon as Jenn
Amanda maintained a serious gaze as she spoke. “Don't get me wrong, I know she saved you and all, but that doesn't mean she should covet the position of Lady of Beats Corporations.""Plus,” She paused, “now that I think of it, the accident that year had been an attack—doesn't it seem suspicious? She comes to rescue you right after the accident... She paid the hospital bills and looked after you all these while… She met Shawn, and they're now together... “When I connect the dots, I can't help but be suspicious of her. There's more to her than meets the eye, don't you think so?"“She didn’t even make any effort to contact us while you were still in a coma…”Jennifer processed and digested all of Amanda's words, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully. Now that her attention was called to them, the pieces seemed to fit perfectly."You might be right." She nodded.The corners of Amanda's mouth curled, "you see? Let's find Shawn another wife. Someone befitting. As far as I know, his marriage to t
Veronica's eyes widened in a mix of horror and amusement. Why was he there? His office wasn't even located in B.Y TV building… She blinked rapidly. While pondering this, she observed him turning away from the partition and strolling down the corridor.Upon catching sight of her, Nathan’s steps slowed, yet a few seconds later, he averted his gaze and walked past her.Veronica released the breath she hadn't realized she had been holding.She turned and watched his retreating form... So handsome... Her lips curled up in a cute smile. Actually, the only reason she had come to B.Y TV was to be close to Nathan Anderson—Come to think of it, why was he on her office floor?Her brows furrowed, she walked over to where he had been standing earlier and peered through the glass."There's nothing here," she muttered.However, as she turned away, her eyes swiftly darted to the cubicle directly across from where she stood, on the other side of the partition.Mia Thompson. She was definitely the one
Veronica's unease was palpable as she stammered, "Wh-who is your wife?""Mia. Mia Thompson is my wife."A heavy silence enveloped the area again, shattered only by Veronica's sudden eruption into hysterical laughter.Once she regained composure, she scoffed, "Must be joking.""Vee, it's not a joke.""Huh?" Taken aback, she questioned, "You know my name?"Ever since the person in the vehicle started talking, she had been wondering if he was someone she knew as his voice sounded somewhat familiar.Now that he'd called her name, the possibility dawned on her—he might actually be someone she knew.Shawn pushed open the car door, and his alluring, slender legs came into view as he gracefully stepped down from the vehicle. Soon, his full frame appeared before her.Straightening his back, standing erect, he greeted Veronica with a smile. "Hello, Vee."The girl's eyes widened in shock at the person towering above her. "Un-Uncle Shawn???""What are you doing here?" Shawn pressed his lips toge
Entering the room, Jennifer calmly guided Mia to the couch.Once seated, she initiated the conversation. "How was work today?"Mia responded with a cute smile, "Well, it was stressful as usual, but..." she trailed off."Hmm," the older woman nodded in understanding.Twitching her lips, she said, "I'd like to express my gratitude for rescuing me that night, helping me to the hospital, and covering my medical expenses. Thank you so much."Mia beamed with smiles, "Ah, it's nothing, Mom. All that matters is you're alright."Eyeing the girl skeptically, Jennifer continued, "The reason why I called you here is due to an important matter. There's something I need you to do for me."Mia's expression turned serious upon hearing this. "Anything. I'll do whatever you ask of me."Inhaling deeply, Jennifer dropped the bombshell, "Divorce my son."Initially, Mia felt she hadn't heard her mother-in-law correctly. Chuckling anxiously, she asked, "Whaaat did you say?""Divorce Shawn. That's what I wan
In an unusual silence, Shawn found himself without words."Why hide it from me? Why reveal it now?" He questioned.Jennifer's expression dropped as she murmured sadly. "I’m sorry, Sunshine.”"But you have to do this. Marry Yvonne. It was your father's dying wish—a commitment to the Davis family. We owe it to his memory."Despite this, Shawn remained resolute, stating, "I don't care. I'm already married."With that, he marched out of the room.Jennifer slumped into the chair, feeling helpless. Now torn between her late husband and her living son, she wondered what course of action to take.Exiting his mother's bedroom, Shawn made a beeline for his study. Settling into his chair, he lit a cigarette, inhaling long puffs. The revelation of a contract existing since before his birth fueled his anger—how could he have been left completely unaware until now.What fueled his anger further was the realization that his father had scripted his future before his very birth.Was the weight of Beat
Jennifer Mandez smiled, observing the girl's downcast expression as she joined her side. She gently took off her gloves and cradled Mia's cheeks in her palms."Be free with me, Mia. I'm your mother as well. I held that title before I resumed being Shawn's mother," she chuckled.She paused briefly before continuing, "I want you to forgive me for hurting you. I apologize sincerely. Now, I know better. You're a rare gem, and I wouldn't want Sunshine to be with anyone but you."Mia's eyes widened, "Does that mean we have your blessing to proceed…?"She nodded, grinning."Thank you, Mom!" The girl squeaked happily, and they embraced in a tight, warm hug.“Now, we have to start preparing for the wedding. The date’s just around the corner.”She nodded and they both returned back inside.Soon, the wedding day arrived. Despite the commonality of extravagant weddings among the wealthy, Shawn and Mia's celebration stood out for its simplicity. Only a select few family and friends were invited, a
Shawn's lips tightened. "I believe you," he paused, "however, it's not you that I was referring to; it's the person behind you."‘Huh?’ Amanda's tears ceased instantly, and she swiftly turned to look behind her, as did everyone else.Anderson.Confusion swept through the room."You sending provoking pictures to Yvonne, making her rush back to the country... I was initially going to let you be. However, things changed after discovering you were the one who instigated the accident three years ago. And then you completely crossed the line by sending me those absurd threat messages," Shawn's icy voice confronted Anderson.Anderson stood, clearly taken aback. He hadn't anticipated Shawn's discovery to be so soon. He usually covered his tracks meticulously…“Why? After all these years working for Grandfather, why engage in such actions?” Shawn's brows furrowed deeply.Anderson chuckled. There was nothing to hide anymore, so why not come out clean? “Exactly. I've toiled for the old geezer fo
Upon arriving home, Shawn tenderly lifted his wife and placed her in their bedroom; she had fallen asleep during the ride. Delicately, he undressed her and tucked her into bed, taking a moment to remove her makeup with beauty wipes.As he disposed of the used wipes, Mia's phone started ringing on the nightstand. Without hesitation, he picked it up and noticed that the caller ID was unknown. He answered the call and brought the phone to his ear."Mia, I apologize. It's all my fault. Please, let's reconcile and go back to how we used to be."Upon hearing those words from the caller, Shawn's brows furrowed in irritation. Without uttering a word, he promptly ended the call. 'Dimwit.' As he placed the phone back on the stand, his thumb inadvertently pressed the photos app and opened it.He perched on the edge of the bed, smiling as he scrolled through the pictures on the girl’s phone. Soon, he stumbled upon an unexpected image—none other than a picture of himself, Shawn Mandez. In it, he
Veronica observed, sipping her cocktail, "Ah, so you two are acquainted." She taunted Martha, "Give this cocktail a try; after all, you seem to enjoy coveting what doesn't belong to you."Martha, a hint of fear in her voice, responded quickly, "Um, I don't know him."Veronica clicked her tongue in irritation, shaking her head at Martha's facade. How could she have been so blind to see the girl’s true color all these while?Everyone eyed the person who had just stepped in with confused expressions on their faces. The boy seemed to be around their age, however, he wasn’t familiar at all. He didn't bear the hallmarks of someone from their high school."Who's he?""No idea.""Recognize him?""Not at all."Veronica smiled, reassuring them, "Relax, everyone. You're about to meet him now."Martha's heart raced, fear escalating within her.Veronica turned to the newcomer, asking, "Tell us who you are and what brings you here."The guy's eyes shifted, locking onto Martha. "I'm Jason, Martha's
"Vicky Lewis!" Gasps echoed through the room as all eyes fixated on the newcomer.Mia was also taken aback to see her. She hadn't crossed paths with Vicky since she was expelled from high school, making tonight's encounter unexpected. Instinctively, an uneasy feeling settled within her.Was she here to bully her?However, Mia wasn't alone in her discomfort. Another individual seemed to be grappling with an even stronger sense of unease in response to Vicky's presence.'Why is she here? How did she manage to appear?' Martha gnawed on her lip, nearly drawing blood.After the girl's family faced bankruptcy and her father was incarcerated, Martha believed it spelled the end for Vicky Lewis.Despite Vicky’s persistent calls and attempts to connect, she remained indifferent, never acknowledging her.Long ago, she'd blocked her contact when her incessant calls became irritating. She wasn't responsible for her father's corruption or having a baby mama. She hadn't urged her to bully Mia to the
Upon entering the venue, a chorus of admiration erupted as Martha made her presence known.“You're as dazzling as ever, Martha.”“Your skin is positively radiant.”“Share your beauty secrets with us.”In a chic caramel knee-length dress beautified with subtle floral patterns, paired with classic silver heels, she exuded elegance. A silver necklace firmly adorned on her neck added a touch of poise, creating a simple yet tasteful look for the one-month school reunion.Martha waved her hand dismissively, cheeks turning a rosy hue as she blushed at the compliments pouring in. “Oh, come on, you guys. Enough about me. You all look fantastic yourselves,” she chuckled, taking her seat."Ah, I know. Max is treating her well.""Trueeee!" The collective cooing echoed.Martha simply giggled. "He'll be joining us shortly also.""Thank goodness that Mia girl didn't succeed back then," remarked one of Martha's ex-classmates, and the rest nodded in agreement.Martha's expression dropped upon hearing
"I'll leave now, and never cross your path again."Shawn stood in silence, observing the girl. Without warning, he marched towards the mini lounge, retrieving a lighter from the center table.Returning to Mia, he set ablaze the documents held in his grasp before one could comprehend what was about to happen.Mia let out an immediate shriek, her eyes widening in sheer horror. "What are you—?""You are mistaken. We're eternally linked—bound forever," Shawn calmly muttered as ashes drifted to the floor.Mia blinked rapidly at him."With that resolved, let's head downstairs for dinner. It’s late," he said, changing from his robe into more casual attire.Mia remained rooted in place, her heart burdened and fatigued. "But I don't belong here... your betro—""That's not your concern, Little One. We're married. Legally married. Are you willing to discard that for a meaningless contract?"She frowned at his words.Shawn's mouth twitched as he took her hand, guiding her downstairs to the dining
Three years prior,As an intern, Charlotte found herself working late into the night on this particular day. Upon completing her tasks at B.Y TV building, she headed out. As she walked down the road, a young man approached her."Miss, Master Davis would like to see you. Please, come with me."Upon hearing this, Charlotte felt a mix of surprise and anticipation.The Davis family had consistently opposed her relationship with Damien, and the reasons remained a mystery to her. Perhaps, they were here to reconcile with her. That was her initial assumption.She promptly followed the man to the car, her heart beating rapidly in her chest as she got in."Uncle, Aunt," she bowed politely.Master Davis and his wife cast disdainful glances at the girl.“The reason we summoned you today is straightforward,” Madam Davis spoke. “Sever ties with our son. We don't want you for him.”Upon hearing the woman's heart-wrenching words, a wave of sadness engulfed Charlotte. "Wh-why? Did I do something wron
Stella and her younger siblings were bewildered to see Madam Mandez. She was meant to be deceased—three years prior, they attended her burial ceremony. How was it possible for her to stand before them now?Their astonishment outweighed any excitement, rendering them unable to leap towards her in joy at the unexpected reunion after several years. Was she a ghost?"Master Davis, Madam Davis," Jennifer greeted with a subtle smile, gesturing for the visitors to take their seats.Madam Davis closed the gap between them, taking Jennifer's hands in hers and patting them comfortingly. "It must have been challenging for you these past few years. Are you alright?"She and her husband had learnt that the woman didn’t die in the accident and had been in a coma all these while, only waking up recently…Jennifer Mandez nodded, "I'm fine, thank you, Natasha. Please, take your seat."Madam Davis nodded and then took her seat beside her husband.“It’s good to see you're doing well. However, we've come