What Lydia didn't know was that after Steven left, he quickly dialed a number. "Chairman!""How did it go?""Rest assured, Chairman, everything is taken care of. The clients I assigned to Lydia are the most difficult ones; they shouldn't be easy to please.""Well done. I'll make sure your year-end bonus is doubled this year!""Thank you for your kindness, Chairman! This is all part of my job." Steven's eyes crinkled with delight as he smiled."And make sure Lambert doesn't find out about this.""Don't worry, Chairman. The boss has been preoccupied with the new development project and won't have time to deal with this."Odgen hung up the phone with satisfaction. Lydia, I've given you a chance. Whether you can seize it depends on your ability! How dare you hope for a successful career after harming Nydia? You're dreaming!At this moment, Lydia was unaware that she had fallen into a trap. No matter how hard she worked, it would all be in vain.Back in her office, Lydia dialed one of the
Lydia extended her hand, her demeanor poised and unyielding. Her bright eyes remained clear even in such an unsavory environment.Before Wright could respond, Zavier sidled up and grabbed her hand with both of his, saying, “So you’re Lydia, nice to meet you!”As he spoke, his large, clammy fingers brushed over the back of Lydia’s hand. His lecherous eyes greedily took in her entire figure.Lydia's heart skipped a beat, feeling goosebumps rise all over her body, but she managed to pull her hand back calmly. “Hello.”Wright nodded, “Lydia, please sit.This is Zavier from Xinhua Real Estate, and this is Andrew from Hengsheng Group. They’re all friends, so no need to be formal.”Lydia felt something was off but still greeted them politely, “Hello, Zavier. Hello, Andrew.”Andrew, who had his head buried in a woman's chest, only waved his hand dismissively. Lydia pretended not to see and glanced around the room.Spotting a small armchair opposite the coffee table, she decided to sit there.
Upon meeting Lydia, Wright found himself admiring this poised and charming woman, regardless of whether she was truly guilty of the accusations against her.Despite his usual preferences, he couldn't help but acknowledge her allure.Wright even entertained a fleeting thought that if not for his unique orientation, he wouldn't mind being with such a woman.Seeing Wright's silence, Lydia wasn't disheartened; she merely smiled slightly and said, “If this is too difficult for you, let's pretend I never came.”She stood as if to leave, but Zavier quickly grabbed her arm. “Lydia, don’t rush off. Wright is just considering it, he didn’t say he wouldn’t sign, right?”Wright, witnessing Lydia’s poise, felt a shift in his perspective.The company was his, and even though Universal Conglomerate collaborated with them, UC wouldn’t sever ties over him choosing Lydia as a designer.Moreover, Steven had only suggested giving Lydia a hard time, which Wright had already done. Lydia had navigated the s
Bob hesitated. “I think she went to the third floor…”Before he could finish, Lambert had already disappeared from sight.Horace and Lennon exchanged worried looks.When Bob snapped out of it and was about to follow, they stopped him.“What happened?” Horace demanded.Bob reluctantly explained what he saw. Hearing this, Horace and Lennon could no longer sit still.They were concerned that Lambert, in his current state, might cause a big scene.They could only hope the man who took Lydia wasn't reckless enough to provoke Lambert.Who was bold enough to mess with Lambert's woman?Meanwhile, Zavier, unaware of the impending storm, was eager to take advantage of the situation.He assumed Lydia was just a small-time studio director and didn’t pose any real threat.After bringing Lydia to a room on the third floor, he became impatient, especially seeing her in her intoxicated, vulnerable state.Her flushed face and delicate features made her irresistibly alluring to him.Lost in lust, Zavie
The manager stopped caring about Zavier in the room and eagerly followed Lambert and his entourage, escorting them all the way to the KTV's entrance.As Lambert got into his car, he lowered the window and said to the manager, "You did well!"The manager's face flushed with excitement.The boss had personally praised him! He hurriedly bowed to Lambert, "Thank you for the compliment, boss."With that, the black Maybach sped away, while Lennon and Horace returned to their private room to continue drinking."I knew Lambert wasn't as calm as he appeared. He can't let go of Lydia," Horace sighed. "But right now, it's truly a deadlock. Mrs. Halsey's death has erected a high wall between them, and with his father so adamantly opposed, I'm afraid..."Lennon, however, smiled serenely. "I don't think we need to worry. Lambert has always been methodical. I'm sure he'll come up with a perfect plan.""Let's hope so! It always seems so exhausting for Lambert to be in a relationship. It's like Romeo
Odgen, though furious, couldn't refute Lambert. The information he received confirmed that Lambert had rescued the woman but hadn't stayed with her, merely placing her in a hotel room.This restraint was the only thing that kept Odgen somewhat satisfied; otherwise, Lambert would have faced more than just a forehead injury.Odgen's anger gradually subsided, but his attitude remained stern. Lydia was a thorn in his heart, a constant reminder of his wife's innocent death."I warn you, this better not happen again! Whatever that woman encounters is her own business and has nothing to do with our family. And you are not to use the company's resources because of her.""As long as you don't target her, I won't intervene either," Lambert insisted. He could avoid meeting Lydia and even try to give up his feelings for her, but he couldn't stand by and watch her get hurt.Odgen gritted his teeth. "Fine! I promise not to go after her intentionally, but you better keep your promise. Now, kneel bef
"Yes, sir!"Before long, Lydia, who was in a stalemate with the bodyguards at the entrance, saw a familiar figure approaching.Her face lit up with recognition. Bob, Lambert's personal bodyguard, was someone she was very familiar with. Did this mean Lambert already knew they were here?"Lydia, come with me for now. Don’t block the entrance."Bob’s tone was much kinder than the stiff formality of the other bodyguards. He was clearly more compassionate.Lydia hesitated, but Bob continued, "Lydia, even if you don’t think about yourself, consider the child. Standing here and being mocked isn’t good for him."Lydia looked down at Wythe and saw the suppressed anger in his eyes, undoubtedly from hearing the surrounding whispers.She felt a pang of guilt and decided not to insist further, following Bob to the side.Despite moving away from the entrance, Lydia still attracted many eyes, especially from media reporters.Had the Halsey family not strictly forbidden photos and videos, this scene
Lydia screamed hysterically, her expression one of pure anguish.Seeing her in such pain, Lambert felt as if his heart were being pricked by countless needles.“Let me tell you the reason!”A deep, hoarse middle-aged voice abruptly interrupted them.Upon seeing the newcomer, Lambert’s face grew even darker.His gaze fell on Bob not far away. Hadn’t he warned Bob not to let his father know that Lydia was here?Bob looked conflicted. He had indeed tried to block the news, but with so many people attending today, it was inevitable that two women discussing Lydia’s presence were overheard by Ogden, which is why he came out.Ogden's sudden appearance left Lydia momentarily stunned. She pursed her lips and called out, “Father...”“We’re not that close! Besides, Lambert was right before. Our family doesn’t welcome you. When Nydia was alive, she often criticized you, but I never expected you to be so ruthless. You murderer, how dare you show your face here?”Ogden's words ignited a flurry of
Since the disastrous end to the previous banquet, Lambert had resigned from his role as the head of Universal Conglomerate. Left with no other choice, Odgen had to step in personally to manage the company. But after so many years away, he found it difficult to command respect from the senior executives, most of whom Lambert had appointed. They weren't openly against Odgen, but their support was lukewarm, lacking the dedication they had shown Lambert.Moreover, Odgen's business acumen and skill in handling people didn't come close to Lambert's, causing a slow drift among the staff. Coupled with the recent financial turbulence affecting a significant portion of the company's assets, Universal Conglomerate was suddenly facing a serious liquidity crisis.Odgen had initially sought Lambert out for help, but he was informed that his son had been absent for over six months, reportedly off chasing his ex-wife. The news only deepened Odgen's frustration. Lambert's ex-wife was Lydia, and despit
Lydia couldn't shake a vague sense of melancholy, especially whenever she saw families of three dining together, strolling hand-in-hand, or playing in the park. Lambert's presence lingered in her mind; his every smile, every expression was etched clearly in her heart.It was only now that Lydia realized just how irreplaceable he had become. Lambert had cared for her meticulously, ensuring she always had a glass of water at just the right temperature or a delicious meal whenever she felt hungry. Whenever she felt tired or sleepy, he was there with his warm, gentle hands, ready to take care of everything.Unknowingly, he had become an inseparable part of her life, like air or clear water—unremarkable but indispensable.Lydia bit her lip, suddenly overcome with a longing to hear Lambert's voice. Almost instinctively, she took out her phone and dialed his number.At that moment, Lambert was in the middle of a meeting with the SA branch team. He had rushed to Nova City and gathered the com
Lydia, half-asleep, leaned into Lambert's embrace, finding a comfortable spot before drifting off completely. All her guardedness and sharpness faded away, leaving her looking as peaceful and innocent as a child. Lambert's gaze softened as he carefully carried her to the bedroom, gently lying down with her still in his arms.Lambert watched Lydia with fascination, his fingers tenderly brushing stray hairs from her forehead. He placed a gentle kiss on her brow, his eyes filled with warmth. The atmosphere in the room was peaceful, and Lambert continued to gaze at her, content just to be by her side, even if she hadn't forgiven him yet.As Lydia was in the late stages of her pregnancy, the baby inside her had become more active, often disturbing her sleep. Yet, lying in Lambert's arms, she felt an inexplicable sense of security. When she stirred uncomfortably in her sleep, Lambert immediately reached over to rub her lower back. Noticing their baby's restlessness, he softly placed his han
Lydia looked at the foot basin, her cheeks reddening slightly. This had become a routine for Lambert, who had read somewhere that foot soaks and massages could ease swelling for pregnant women. So, he made it his mission to prepare a foot bath for her every day at the same time.At first, Lydia was quite resistant, but with Lambert's persistence and Wythe's innocent pleas, she eventually gave in.Now, Lambert was crouched down, without concern for his appearance, gently removing her shoes. Seeing Lydia's noticeably swollen feet filled him with worry. Was this foot bath helping at all? Why was her swelling still so bad?It was Lambert's first time caring for a pregnant woman. He had heard of all the challenges women face during pregnancy, but witnessing it firsthand, especially with someone he loved deeply, stirred a strong, indescribable tenderness within him. He felt an overwhelming desire to protect Lydia from any pain, to the point of wishing he could bear it all himself.Lambert c
The next morning, when Wythe woke up, he found his mother looking at him with gentle eyes. Unable to resist, he leaned in and kissed Lydia, then nuzzled against her shoulder, seeking comfort.Lydia felt a warm flutter in her heart; her child had missed her. A wave of guilt washed over her as she stroked Wythe's little head. "Wythe, I'm sorry for not saying anything before and leaving you behind."Wythe, despite his previous frustration, had come to understand that his mother had no choice. "It's okay, Mom. I've grown up and can understand your decisions. Just promise that wherever you go, you'll take me with you.""Of course!"As they chatted warmly in the living room, Lambert stood in the kitchen, facing a daunting array of ingredients. He had done some research beforehand and learned that pregnant women needed balanced nutrition, preferably from home-cooked meals, since who knew about the hygiene of outside food?Determined to prepare a meal for Lydia, Lambert decided to cook. After
Once Lydia calmed down, she realized Lambert had already come in. Given Wythe's presence, it was obviously unrealistic to ask him to leave.Seizing the moment, Wythe turned to Lydia and said, "Mom, can I stay with you tonight?"Lydia nodded without hesitation. "Of course you can! Where else would you stay?"As she spoke, she shot a glance at Lambert, her eyes clearly indicating that she wanted him to leave as soon as possible. He was just too much to deal with.Unfortunately, Lambert didn't take the hint and instead asked, "Lydia, you only have a small bed here. Wythe won't fit; I think he should stay at my place."Although it was just next door, Lambert's place was vastly different—a spacious two-hundred-square-meter apartment with three bedrooms and two living areas, while Lydia's was only about ninety. As soon as he moved in, Lambert had redecorated one of the rooms specifically for Lydia.Before Lydia could respond, Wythe looked at
No matter how upset Lydia felt, Lambert followed her like a shadow. However, he managed to avoid any more foolish actions after their earlier confrontation, even going so far as to apologize.He was humble, hoping to cheer her up, but she remained as cold as ice, leaving him in despair."Dad, I've arrived at Y City Airport! Come pick me up!"When Lambert received Wythe's call, he felt like a savior had arrived. Ever since their argument over Lydia's job, she hadn't spoken to him at all. Initially, she wouldn't let him in, and now she didn't even open the door. If she saw it was him through the peephole, she would resolutely stay inside!With that attitude, even Lambert's best efforts were useless.Wythe's arrival was the perfect catalyst to break the deadlock. Delighted, Lambert headed straight to the airport after dropping off Lydia's meal, as usual.Meanwhile, Lydia was fuming at the sight of meals consistently hanging on her door. She cou
Lambert presented himself as refined, but his underlying dominance was unmistakable. "That's not the case, Principal. I'm just worried about Lydia's health. She's pregnant, and she's caring for a class full of four- and five-year-olds. If something were to happen, it could be very dangerous for her."The principal furrowed her brow, eyeing him curiously. His concern seemed more like that of a family member than a parent. "While your point is valid, we've already considered this. Surely, you wouldn't expect her to be dismissed? After all, maternity leave is an option now...""Maternity leave is limited," Lambert replied firmly. "Besides, you must know that Lydia can't stay here forever."The principal felt uneasy. Lambert's demeanor and attire suggested he was no ordinary individual; why would he want his family working in such a small place? Something felt off."On what grounds are you so sure?" she asked.Lambert responded with unwavering confiden
Meanwhile, Lydia was feeling quite emotional in her room. The impact of seeing Lambert, whom she hadn't seen in a long time, was overwhelming. He had lost quite a bit of weight, and from his words, it seemed he had been eager to find her ever since he left.It would be a lie to say she wasn't touched; he truly cared about her. She had always held onto him in her heart and never let go. However, the idea of going back because of this was unlikely; after all, she was a stubborn person, and once she made a decision, it wasn't easy to change her mind.Lydia hoped that Lambert would take the hint and leave soon so her life could return to normal. Otherwise, her heart would be in turmoil!As Lambert, whom Lydia hoped would leave, was knocking on the door next door, an elderly man in his sixties opened it, eyeing Lambert suspiciously.Lambert straightened his clothes and spoke with a gentle tone, "Hello, I'm Lambert. The thing is..."Lydia, completely obl