Zebulon smiled warmly, “Since you’ve put it that way, not staying would seem petty. Alright, I’ll accept your hospitality.”“No need to be so polite. We might even become in-laws in the future!”Lambert frowned upon hearing this, feeling discontent but managing not to show it in front of the guests. On the other hand, Verna, sitting opposite, blushed and stole glances at Lambert, clearly quite pleased with him.“Lambert, let me introduce you. This is Zebulon’s wife, and this elegant young lady is Zebulon’s daughter, Verna. You young people should have plenty to talk about!”Odgen’s enthusiastic demeanor made everything clear to Lambert. No wonder his father had stopped monitoring him—he had already decided Lambert should get married and start a family.Verna, although restrained, clearly had a favorable impression of her prospective partner. Unlike other women who might have thrown themselves at him, she merely stole glances, which did not go unnoticed by her parents.Zebulon sighed i
Lambert and Verna talked as they walked back to the villa. Their interaction did not go unnoticed by Odgen and Zebulon, who exchanged knowing smiles. It seemed their families would soon be united.Lambert was unaware that his father and Verna's father had already reached an agreement. His thoughts were entirely occupied with Lydia, especially because he remembered they had an important business meeting in two days.Lambert was both looking forward to and dreading the meeting. He yearned to see Lydia but knew they could never be together. Even so, he couldn't resist the opportunity to see her again.Two days later, in the general manager's office of Universal Conglomerate's branch, Steven was baffled by the sight of his boss sitting at the desk.It was just a minor meeting; why was the boss so involved?And why was he so meticulously reviewing the cooperation proposal? His dedication was astonishing.At 8:45, Lambert finally looked up from the proposal. "Are the representatives here ye
Manager Louis quickly stepped in to defuse the tension. "Alright, alright, we're all family here. No need to be so confrontational. Yes, Lydia's studio had some issues before, but they've been resolved. Let's focus on how we can make the studio more successful moving forward, shall we?"Leroy snorted, thinking to himself, What a bootlicker!Louis also sneered inwardly, Kid, you're not ready to take my place yet!Lambert paid no attention to the undercurrents between his subordinates. He tapped his fingers on the table, his mind occupied with finding a way to speak to Lydia alone.With no further interruptions, the meeting proceeded smoothly. Lydia was well-prepared, and by the end, even Leroy, who initially believed Lydia had only secured the partnership through connections, had a more favorable opinion of her.As the meeting concluded, everyone gradually left the conference room. Lydia was the last to leave. The meeting's success brought her a sense of relief, but it also sparked a t
Lydia was taken aback by Andrew's actions. She had always seen him as gentle and accommodating, someone who treated her like a kind older brother, patiently waiting even while pursuing her. But just now, she felt a hint of aggression in his actions for the first time.Lydia laughed at herself, tapping her forehead. What am I even thinking?Andrew, unaware of Lydia's thoughts, could tell something was off with her. She seemed troubled, and this made him hesitant. What he was about to say was indeed quite abrupt.They sat across from each other in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. The atmosphere was oddly quiet.After a long pause, Andrew cleared his throat and spoke softly, "Lydia, actually, I came here today to ask for your help."Seeing Andrew so serious, Lydia couldn't help but straighten up. "Andrew, there's no need to be so formal with me. Just tell me what you need help with."Andrew looked down, his handsome face turning slightly red with embarrassment. He seemed unsure
"Lambert, when are you going to deal with your dad? I don't want to be tied to you forever!" Verna's straightforwardness, now completely devoid of the elegance and ladylike demeanor from their first meeting, revealed her quirky nature.It was this honesty that made Lambert tolerate her, unlike others. He knew Verna had a secret lover, and they were both forced into this arranged meeting.As they descended the stairs, Odgen and Zebulon were already in deep conversation, much to Verna's exasperation. She rolled her eyes, finding herself once again staying for dinner at the Halsey residence.During the meal, Odgen's fondness for Verna grew more apparent, and Zebulon’s parents seemed to like Lambert very much. However, both Verna and Lambert seemed distracted, their occasional eye contact hinting at a shared sense of plight.After dinner, as Zebulon’s family took their leave, Odgen called Lambert into the study.In the oppressive silence, Odgen was the first to speak. "Do you admit your m
Like an artist repeatedly conceptualizing a scene, Lambert's mind lingered on the image of the person within that picture.Lydia hadn't gone to bed. She stood by the window, clutching her phone, waiting for a call that might never come."Lambert! Lambert!"She whispered his name in her heart, each time more painful than the last. He hadn't contacted her, even though she had sent him a message. Unbeknownst to her, Lambert's phone lay abandoned on a nightstand, and its owner was merely fifty meters away in his car.Knock, knock, knock!Lydia quickly set her phone down as Wythe, rubbing his eyes, walked in with a cup of milk. "Mom, why aren't you asleep yet?"Lydia's voice was soft. "Did I wake you? I'm sorry. I'll go to bed now.""Mom, drink some milk before you sleep."Lydia's nose tingled, and she reached out to tousle her son's hair. "Thank you, Wythe.""Mom, I've grown up. Even without Dad, I can take good care of you. Besides, Uncle Fraine is great too! Please don't be sad about Da
His name was Winston, a high school teacher with a courteous and composed demeanor, leaving a good impression on Lambert. However, Lambert was surprised when Winston opposed the idea of eloping with Verna."Lambert, I know you're helping us, and I appreciate it greatly. But please tell Verna that I can't agree to run away with her."Lambert didn't expect such a refusal and narrowed his eyes slightly, scrutinizing Winston. "What do you mean? Do you have other plans?"Winston smiled, "Yes, I do. I understand you're Verna's friend, which is why we can't involve you. You could help Verna escape during a shopping trip, but wouldn't the Zheng family come to you for answers? It's good you're willing to help, but I don't want you to bear the consequences."Lambert had considered this risk but dismissed it, confident in his status. Even if the Zheng family suspected him, they wouldn't dare confront him openly.Seeing Lambert's thoughts, Winston continued, "I truly appreciate your help. If you'
Wythe simply blinked, "I know, since it's Mom's choice, I'm happy for you both. As long as Mom is happy.""Yes, I will make sure your mom is happy!"As they were talking, the doorbell suddenly started ringing frantically. Lydia and Andrew exchanged a glance, and Andrew went to open the door."Lydia, I..."Lambert's voice stopped abruptly when he saw Andrew. His handsome face was tinged with coldness."What are you doing here?"Andrew raised an eyebrow, feeling a slight displeasure. He and Lydia had just made some progress, and he couldn't let this person ruin it."That question should be mine to ask. As someone who has divorced Lydia, why are you here?""Move aside! I have something to say to Lydia!"Without hesitation, Lambert stepped forward, trying to bypass Andrew. Andrew, however, blocked his path. "Lambert, even if you're visiting, you should get the host's permission! If you keep barging in, I can call the police!"Lambert sneered, "Call the police? What a joke. This is my wife
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
Using their son as a shield might seem a bit embarrassing, but it was undeniably effective. Sure enough, upon hearing Wythe's name, Lydia paused her resistance to Lambert. She struggled to move her legs and began to make her way toward her home.What should have been a short ten-minute walk turned into a half-hour ordeal due to Lydia's difficulty in moving. During this time, she even awkwardly made a trip to the restroom. As she entered the later stages of her pregnancy, not only had her legs swollen, but her trips to the bathroom had also increased significantly. Just moments ago, she had finished a latte, which made the situation even more awkward—suddenly needing to find a restroom while walking.Lambert, while unaware of the many inconveniences pregnancy could bring, couldn't help but feel like a negligent husband and father as he watched Lydia struggle. He realized he knew nothing about what she was going through. Seeing her in such discomfort made his heart
Lambert closed his eyes, trying to calm the turmoil in his heart. He had truly found Lydia!"Sorry, Lydia, I think I got a bit carried away!"Could this be a dream? If it is, he hoped he'd never wake up.Lydia was at a loss for words. This wasn't just being a bit excited; he was clearly overwhelmed!She decided to change the subject. "Lambert, how's Wythe doing?" Her son was the person she cared about most, and the one she felt she owed the most to."He's fine, but he really misses you. I didn't expect that after all this time, you wouldn't even call once."Hearing this, Lydia lowered her head, guilt washing over her. In some ways, she knew she hadn't been a very good mother. She had neglected her son for her own feelings."I'm sorry..."Lambert sighed softly, a mix of emotions swirling within him. "You don't need to apologize, Lydia. It's all my fault. If I hadn't misunderstood you, you wouldn't have felt the need to leave Nov
Debby felt a sudden jolt, her ears turning bright red. Being caught doing something wrong and exposed in public was a uniquely uncomfortable experience."Uh, I..."Lambert's heart raced. Could it be that he finally found the right place? Was Lydia really at this kindergarten?Fearing he might startle her, he spoke gently, his tone patient. "Debby, there's been a misunderstanding between Lydia and me. I care about her deeply, and I can't lose her. I don't know how you've interpreted our situation, but as her friend, I assume you want her to be happy too?"Debby hesitated at his words. Was this man truly a scoundrel? Upon reflection, Lydia had only mentioned that she had divorced her partner and left Nova City due to some circumstances. She had never spoken ill of her ex-husband, so perhaps she had misjudged him?Debby's expression shifted, yet she still seemed unsure. Lambert seized the moment to ask, "Debby, Lydia hasn't left, has she?""How