Emily began to regain consciousness, her eyes fluttering open slightly.“Doctor, she’s awake. Her pupils are responsive,” a nurse reported urgently.Emily saw four figures surrounding her. Overhead, a glaring light illuminated her abdomen. But her abdomen felt completely numb!“My baby…” Emily murmured, her voice a weak whisper.The doctor frowned. “Get the anesthesiologist.”The nurse quickly complied. “Yes, Doctor.”Emily’s heart sank. “Doctor, what about my baby…”The doctor, drenched in sweat, focused intently on the surgery. “Miss, I need to concentrate completely on this procedure. The anesthesiologist will take care of you shortly, and my assistant will explain everything to you once the surgery is done.”“But my baby…”The anesthesiologist entered, clad in sterile garb, and placed an oxygen mask over Emily’s face. Within seconds, she was completely unconscious. Yet, her mind lingered for a few moments, faintly hearing the voices around her.“… abandon treatment? Did her family
Four years have passed since everything changed.The prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize ceremony was being held in Rome. This year’s award had taken everyone by surprise—a complete unknown had won, a young architect who had just turned thirty. The fact that she was American only heightened the intrigue.The last time a thirty-year-old American won this award was Logan Morgan. But his reputation had been shattered when it was discovered that his award-winning design wasn’t his own but stolen from another architect. The incident became one of the biggest scandals in architectural history, and the committee had not only stripped him of the prize but also declared that year’s award void. The scandal rocked the architecture world to its core, stirring debates about ethics and trust in the industry.In the aftermath, a wave of xenophobia swept through some circles, with some extremists arguing that Americans shouldn’t be allowed to compete for the Pritzker ever again. While this idea w
The host subtly lowered the microphone and leaned closer to Miranda, his voice a quiet whisper. “Ms. Carter, just stay calm. I’ll guide you through this.”Miranda looked slightly surprised but managed to mask it with a polite smile. “Thank you,” she replied, her tone warm.“Go ahead, take that trophy that’s rightfully yours.”Miranda gently released his hand and walked slowly to the microphone stand.Bright spotlights bathed her in light, and the constant flash of cameras created a dazzling blur. From her perspective, all she could see was a sea of white—she couldn’t make out faces or the number of attendees.The trophy was placed on a pedestal nearby, waiting for her to lift it. But first, she had to face the scrutiny of the audience.“Good evening, everyone. I’m Miranda Carter.”Her voice was melodious, clear, and carried a calm confidence.At this, the male reporters in the audience snapped their cameras into focus on her, some even momentarily forgetting their duties as they caugh
Perfection has never been her; it has always been her designs. After all, who among us can claim to be flawless?Miranda's skin was as radiant as silk, her red lips curving into a sensual smile. “So, shall we proceed with the award ceremony now?”The host, still smiling, nodded. “Of course, Ms. Carter. But before we hand over the trophy, the judges and members of the press have some questions for you. You'll need to provide convincing answers, and if you succeed, the award will undoubtedly be yours.”Miranda accepted the challenge with grace. “I'm ready.”The ceremony continued...The award presentation lasted a staggering seven hours.Starting at eight in the evening, it dragged on until well past three in the morning. Many attendees were fighting off sleep, some even openly pleading for the event to end. However, a few stubborn individuals, determined to trip Miranda up, kept the questions coming.Despite this, Miranda showed no signs of impatience. Instead, she remained poised and
“Hey, Miranda, remember our deal? No saying ‘thank you’ to me,” Jackson said with a playful smirk.Miranda laughed softly, covering her mouth. “Sorry, I forgot again.”Jackson rolled his eyes in mock annoyance. “You forget every time, and I always have to remind you.”“My bad,” Miranda replied with a grin.“Hmph.”As they exited the conference hall, Miranda couldn’t shake her worry about Amy’s ability to manage things on her own. Her uncle Bert had never been to the Europe before, and he didn’t speak Italian. If he got lost, it could be a major problem. Reluctantly, she asked Jackson to drive her to airport so she could personally meet her uncle and ensure his safe arrival.This was her second visit to the airport ; the first had been just a few days ago when she was rushing to attend an awards ceremony. She hadn’t had time to take in her surroundings, and it had taken her ages to find Amy at the international arrivals gate.Amy had just stepped out of a convenience store, holding two
“Miranda, there are still good people in this world. As soon as I arrived, two young men saw I was lost and immediately offered to help me find my way. I’m really grateful to them,” Bert said with a relieved smile.Miranda gently reminded him, “Uncle Bert, I go by Miranda now.”“Oh, right, Miranda. I’ll remember that,” Bert said, tapping his forehead. “Getting old, my memory isn’t what it used to be.”Bert, though just fifty years old, looked much older, the wear and tear of life showing clearly in his features. Years of hardship had taken their toll on him, making him appear far older than his years. He had spent over twenty years abroad, searching for the man who had wronged his sister, and upon returning, had devoted himself to caring for William. His entire life had been a series of burdens, leaving little room for anything else.Miranda felt a pang of sadness and linked arms with him. “You’re not old at all, Uncle Bert. Don’t say that.”Bert chuckled heartily. “You’ve grown so mu
Jackson stood with his arms crossed, squinting slightly as he surveyed his surroundings. “So, you’re in Rome too?”A man in a sharp suit replied, “I just ran into madam’s uncle. He mentioned coming here to meet a friend. Was it you who brought him here, Jackson?”Jackson smirked, his tone lazy, almost indifferent. “What if it was me? What if it wasn’t? Why are you stopping me from leaving? This is Rome, not back home. I could easily have you arrested for unlawful detention.”From inside a nearby café, a man in a suit and sunglasses called out softly, “Dylan.”“Yes, sir?” Dylan responded promptly.“Invite Jackson in for a cup of coffee.”Dylan hesitated. “Sir, Jackson doesn’t seem too interested in talking. He’s being quite hostile.”The man sighed. “That’s just how he is. It’s not about you. Go ahead, tell him it’s me inviting him.”“Yes, sir.” Dylan walked back to Jackson’s side.A dozen bodyguards surrounded Jackson, making any attempt to flee futile. But Jackson remained unbothered
"Borrow money?"Jackson’s voice was muffled, and there was a noticeable whooshing sound in the background. “Yeah, it's just a nuisance. I'm playing along with them for now. You should head back.”Emily's suspicion was piqued by Jackson’s vague tone. “Jackson, are you in some kind of trouble?”“No way. Who am I? Jackson, the king of the road! No one would dare give me trouble. Anyway, Emily, be a good girl and take Bert home to rest. I’ll be back a bit later. That's it, I’m hanging up.”Beep… Beep… Beep…Jackson had indeed hung up the phone.Bert asked, “Is something wrong? Is Jackson in trouble?”“He said he ran into some old friends,” Emily echoed, her concern mirroring Bert's. However, she knew her best course of action was to avoid adding to Jackson's burdens. “Let’s go. Jackson knows what he’s doing.”With Jackson absent, it fell to Amy to drive them back.This was Emily’s second experience with Amy behind the wheel, and it was every bit as nerve-wracking as the first. The ride wa
One year later. The house was filled with the soft glow of Christmas lights, their gentle hues dancing across the living room. Emily and Vincent had transformed their home into a cozy haven, with garlands, twinkling lights, and an extravagant Christmas tree that sparkled from every angle. The scent of cinnamon and pine mingled in the air as holiday music played softly in the background, creating a festive, heartwarming atmosphere. This Christmas, their first as a married couple, felt like the beginning of something truly beautiful, a peaceful moment carved from the chaos they’d left behind. Guests began to arrive, the first among them being Allen and Olivia, who had just returned from their honeymoon. They entered, hand-in-hand, faces glowing with happiness. Olivia had transformed over the last year. Now a poised and capable woman, she’d embraced her role in helping Allen manage the family business, but her girlish side was still evident. “Emily!” Olivia squealed as she hugged her f
"Three years ago, I nearly died." Emily snatched her passport back from Sophia’s hand. "This British couple is my family. They’re good people. They saved me and took me to England."She held the passport firmly. "And yet, you still wouldn’t let me go. You went to every length to forge my death certificate.""Do you all want to know why they wouldn’t leave a ‘dead’ woman alone?" Emily let out a bitter laugh. "Because this was their only chance to inherit the wealth I left behind.""I didn’t die; I’m alive and back to reclaim what’s rightfully mine. This time, no one will hurt me. Sophia, you and your mother won’t steal my inheritance, and you won’t ruin my wedding. Now, the ceremony continues."Satan stood in the grand hall, watching the strong, fearless woman Emily had become, a wave of unspeakable joy rising within him. His woman had become powerful.Dressed in a white gown, Emily walked slowly toward Satan, accompanied by Bert. The small diamonds on her gown sparkled under the light
“I know,” Emily said firmly.When Vincent slid the ring onto her finger, she felt a flash of disbelief. She’d expected Sophia to pull something, but Vincent’s unwavering stance took her by surprise. It’s over—everything’s finally over.Emily’s eyes glistened with tears.The priest’s voice resonated, “The groom may now kiss the bride…”Emily lowered her head, tears shimmering on her lashes. Vincent leaned in, kissing away the tear before it fell.Applause thundered through the church, and the priest laughed. “Go on, kiss her; she’s yours now.”Vincent didn’t hesitate, pulling Emily into a kiss. “You’re my wife, Emily. Finally.”Emily smiled through her tears. “Yes, I’m finally your wife.”Vincent turned with Emily still in his embrace, facing the crowd. “Emily and I are together now, and nothing will ever come between us again.”The guests watched, Meggie wiping tears of joy from her eyes.But Sophia wasn’t about to let things end on such a perfect note. Her face twisted with such fury
Dylan was right.Three days later, Emily Carter and Vincent Norman were to be married. With Meggie as the wedding’s head organizer, invitations bore Emily's name, revealing to everyone that Miranda—the talented designer making waves at the Pritzker Architecture Prize—was indeed Emily.The announcement stunned all of New York and the entire architecture community. So Miranda is really Emily? People couldn’t believe the city’s most eligible bachelor, Vincent, had been swept off his feet so quickly.The Norman family, known for their longstanding legacy, hosted an extravagant guest list. Alex greeted everyone warmly, while Mandy barely cracked a smile. She was still fuming—she’d barely started her schemes with Grace to find Vincent a “suitable” bride, only to be blindsided by this wedding! She muttered, “Wasn’t he supposed to be so deeply in love with Emily? Now he’s marrying someone else so fast?”Meggie overheard and firmly replied, “The bride is Emily.”“Oh, come on, Mom. She’s not—”
Emily suddenly felt super self-conscious. “Fine, I’ll drink it. But after I’m done, go back to your office!”With that, she tilted her head back and gulped down the entire glass of lemon water in one go. She quickly shoved the empty glass back into Vincent's hands, saying, "There, all done!"Vincent's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Great. Come to my office at lunchtime," he said with a hint of mischief.Emily frantically tried to signal him with her eyes, mouthing, “People are watching!”Vincent seemed completely unfazed and continued, “It’s freezing outside, so don’t go out. I already asked Dylan to pick up lunch for us; he’ll bring it up, and we’ll eat together.”“...Okay.”He’s gotta be done now, right? Emily thought to herself, hoping he’d leave before the entire office saw this unfold live.“Oh, one more thing,” Vincent added nonchalantly, “Don’t rush off after work. We’ll swing by and pick up your uncle first, then head to my place for dinner with my dad and Meggie.”Emily blink
As soon as Allen left the hospital room, Jackson turned pale and, with a sudden heave, threw up everything he’d just eaten, leaving a mess on the floor.The young nurse, no older than twenty, panicked and rushed toward the door to call a doctor, but Jackson stopped her. “Stay,” he commanded.The nurse looked at him with wide eyes, almost on the verge of tears as she saw his ashen face. “Sir, if you’re unwell, you really should let the doctor check—”“I’m not unwell,” Jackson replied, his voice cold, with a glint of harshness in his eyes. The nurse flinched slightly at his intense gaze.“Are you scared of me?” he asked, a smirk playing on his lips.“N-no, not at all,” the nurse stammered, shaking her head. “It’s just…”“Don’t worry about it,” he said, a faint sneer forming. “Fear is natural. I’ve never been the nicest person, and I don’t pretend to be.”“Oh no, you’re a good person, sir! You… well, you pay me well,” she replied hesitantly.“Money alone doesn’t make someone good,” Jacks
The projects across the company were running smoothly. Ken managed the technical aspects, and Daniel handled administration and overall decision-making. Even during Satan's three-year absence, The Great Wall Group retained its position as New York’s leading business powerhouse.As Emily browsed the recent news on her phone in the car, it was clear the city was engulfed in Christmas cheer, bright and bustling.Satan glanced over. “Any plans for Christmas?”She paused. “Not really. I’ll probably just stay in and watch TV with Bert.”He nodded without pressing further. Emily wondered what had prompted him to ask; he’d usually spend Christmas with his family.A slight smile crept across her face, but her expression held a tinge of sadness. The people in her life seemed to be growing fewer by the year. Christmas used to be difficult but joyful, a shared warmth despite the hardships. This year, it felt especially lonely. Sophia had long severed ties with the family, and William was gone. It
Jackson cut her off. “Then let me take you to meet my family! You’re amazing—they just don’t know you yet. Once they do, they’ll definitely support us being together. That way, we won’t have to choose, and we can stay together, right?”“What if they still don’t agree?”“I’ll talk to them. I’m committed to you for life. They’ll have to come around, whether they agree or not!”Emily couldn’t help but laugh. “But I don’t agree.”Jackson felt a pang of panic. He tried to sit up to reach her hand, but his body was still confined by the plaster, immobilizing him completely, and he was forced to lie back down. “Emily, are you worried because my parents don’t like you? If I love you, their initial reservations don’t matter; they’ll come to accept it.”“That’s part of it,” Emily admitted, “but there’s a more important reason…”A sinking feeling came over Jackson. “…What is it?”……Weather forecasts are rarely reliable, but this time, it turned out to be spot on.By evening, the sky was filled
Emily didn’t say anything, but her mind was a mess.“You don’t need to say so many sentimental things,” she replied softly. “For Meggie’s sake, I’ll go through with the wedding. Don’t worry.”“But I don’t want a fake wedding,” Satan replied. “I want it to be real.”The elevator stopped on the ground floor.Emily stepped out first, and unlike the warmth of the room upstairs, cold snowflakes were now drifting down outside, and the air felt sharp against her skin, like knives slicing across her face.Standing at the Hilton’s entrance, she asked, “Did you drive here?”“I took a cab.”“Did you sneak out again?”Satan shrugged with a wry smile. “Dylan’s been keeping too close an eye on me.”With no other option, Emily walked to the curb and flagged down a taxi for him, signaling for him to hurry up.“To St. Mary’s Hospital, please,” she instructed, then turned back to him. “When you get there, have Dylan call me to let me know you arrived safely, okay?”He nodded. “And what about you? What