Wythe's small body blended into the darkness as he quickly made his way to Odgen's room. The door was ajar, and the room remained shrouded in darkness. After a moment, Odgen came hurrying toward the room.
Wythe's heart skipped a beat, and he quickly hid in a corner, taking advantage of the shadows. He was extremely nervous but also felt a strange thrill, as if he was about to uncover some wrongdoing and expose it himself.
In his haste, Odgen failed to notice Wythe hiding in the corner and walked straight into the room. Moments later, voices started to come from inside.
"Odgen, is it done? When should I go over?" a delicate female voice reached Wythe's ears.
"Don't be in a hurry. I've already given him the drug. I'll check on him later, and when the effects kick in, I'll have someone notify you. But I won't be coming back. Let me remind you one more time, once the child is born, you take the money and leave. There will be no further contact with our family
"Miss, the master sent me to inform you that the young master is ready for you. You can head over now—it's the second room on the left on this floor. Make sure you don’t go to the wrong room! Also, the master ordered that you’re not allowed to turn on the lights.""I understand!"Heloise adjusted her robe before opening the door and heading toward the room she was instructed to enter. As soon as she pushed the door open, she was enveloped in darkness. However, with the faint moonlight streaming through the window, she quickly adjusted to the dimness. In the distance, she could make out the figure of someone lying on a large European-style bed. Though she couldn’t see the person's face clearly, she noticed that they were in visible discomfort, tossing and turning on the bed.Heloise sneered to herself. It seemed Mr. Halsey was particularly harsh on his son, drugging him so heavily. But this was none of her concern—her task was simply
After Lambert finished speaking, he took Wythe's hand and led him downstairs. A moment later, he heard Wythe giggle.“Ha ha ha, Daddy, Grandpa’s expression just now was so funny!”Lambert reached out to pat Wythe’s head, still maintaining his stoic expression. His feelings were complicated; his father’s actions had deeply hurt him, and right now, facing his father was the last thing he wanted to do.Twenty minutes later, in the villa’s living room, Lambert and Wythe were seated on the sofa, with Odgen sitting across from them. Odgen had tidied himself up and still carried himself with that insincere dignity.Heloise had already been dismissed by Odgen. After all, since the seeds had been sown in the wrong place, there was no point in sticking around.Lambert’s cold gaze swept across Odgen’s face. “Father, don’t you think you owe me an explanation?”“What do I need to exp
“That’s a good idea. Alright, just be careful,” Andrew said.Lydia smiled, “I’m not a child, you know!”Andrew’s mood brightened at her smile. These days, he thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Lydia. Their relationship had settled into a comfortable familiarity, much like a long-married couple. It wasn’t a passionate love, but the warmth of their connection had quietly woven itself into their daily lives. Andrew thought that even if Lydia never agreed to marry him, having her by his side like this might be enough.Unbeknownst to him, Lydia was clear about their relationship. She constantly reminded herself that she was merely playing a role—she had only agreed to this arrangement to ensure Clara's surgery went smoothly. One day, she would leave, and she knew she had to find the right opportunity to do so.For now, though, both Andrew and Lydia maintained the status quo, each keeping their thoughts t
As a fashion designer, Lydia never confines herself to past achievements. Even though she has gained significant recognition abroad, she sees herself as a sponge, always eager to absorb new knowledge. The more she learns, the more perfect her designs can become.Lydia and Thera strolled through the exhibition hall, admiring the various outfits, some of which were bizarre, others creative. Lydia was particularly captivated by some of the new materials used in the designs.“I never thought there were so many alternatives to traditional fabrics. This is really an eye-opener for me,” Thera said, her voice filled with wonder. “Look at that dress on the model—it’s made of balloons! How many balloons did they use? The flowers on it look so realistic!”Lydia smiled, “Yes, it’s an excellent example of creative design. This designer not only has a unique perspective on fashion but is also highly skilled in balloon art.”As Lydia explained the details, she was also amazed by the level of creativ
Especially the woman beside Lydia—who exactly is she, and how could she be so arrogant?Verna, though not as well-connected as the Arliss family, had grown up in luxury and had never suffered such humiliation. She immediately tugged at Lambert's arm, "Lambert, who is this person? They say a good dog doesn’t block the way, even dogs know that. How come some people don’t get it? The world is truly going downhill!"Lambert was left speechless. He had intended to keep the peace, but this girl was only adding fuel to the fire.Upon hearing Verna's words, Thera’s pretty face instantly turned cold. “Some people must’ve been raised on crap, or maybe they forgot to brush their teeth before stepping out. Such filthy language—what excellent upbringing!”“Hmph, my upbringing might not be perfect, but it’s certainly better than blocking someone’s way. Ma’am, at your age, you should stay home and relax, lest menopause hits, and you start biting people randomly!”“Seems like Lambert’s taste is getti
Lydia suddenly calmed down. She closed her eyes, and when she reopened them, they were clear, but the sparkle had vanished, leaving only compromise and emptiness. “Whatever you say. We’re not involved anymore, right? Surely, the esteemed CEO of Universal Conglomerate wouldn’t dwell on past mistakes?”Lambert, hearing her acknowledgment, felt as if a gaping hole had been torn in his chest, leaving him with an unbearable emptiness. Hatred spread from deep within him—she had really admitted it!Just as Lambert, burning with rage, took a step towards Lydia, not knowing what he might do to her, a sharp voice rang out, “Lambert! Stop it! Are you even a man? How dare you raise a hand against a woman!”Immediately after, a high heel flew straight towards Lambert’s face!Lambert tilted his head and dodged it, his gaze as sharp as ice as he looked over. Thera was limping toward him, her beautiful eyes ablaze with anger.Apparently, while Thera and Verna were arguing, they suddenly realized that
The room fell silent, the heated discussions among the executives coming to an abrupt halt. Lydia's headache intensified."Director, I have a suggestion," one manager spoke up. "Regardless of why our competitors are suppressing us, we need to showcase superior work. There's an upcoming high-fashion design competition. I believe this is an opportunity. If our company can place well, those who canceled contracts with us will regret it."Lydia's eyes brightened. Strength speaks louder than words; if they could prove their capability, why worry about others' schemes?She shot an approving look at the design manager. "Good. I'll leave this to you. Contact the organizers and select some talented designers to represent us."The design manager beamed with pride. "Rest assured, Director. I will handle it well."Not wanting to be outdone, the business manager chimed in, "Director, I'd like another chance. Allow me to visit the companies that canceled contracts and try to win them back."With bo
"Lydia, are you really sure there's anything left between us? Wasn't it you who said we should go our separate ways, bridge by bridge, road by road, never to cross paths again? Besides, aren't you already engaged to Andrew?""Lambert, when did you become so unprofessional? I remember you weren't always like this. Moreover, wouldn't it be better for the studio's long-term growth if it became independent?"Lambert curled his lips into a smile. "You're not wrong. For a design studio to grow stronger, it's best to operate independently and create its own brand. But why should I do that? You know I don't lack money, so there's no reason for me to sell off a studio with potential."Lambert's firm stance left Lydia momentarily at a loss. She had come here brimming with confidence, assuming that a large company like Universal Conglomerate wouldn't care about a small studio, especially since they were divorced, and there was no need for further entanglement. But now, Lydia realized she had ove
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
Lydia could hardly believe her ears, but Debby wouldn't lie to her. So, Lambert had really come looking for her.Her emotions were a whirlwind. It had been nearly five months since she left. During this time, she had come to Y City alone, found a job at a kindergarten, and gradually found some peace.Being away from the chaos allowed Lydia to reflect on herself, and she realized that the situation with Lambert wasn't entirely his fault. While he sometimes acted presumptuously, his intentions were good—he always acted out of concern for himself. Each argument only chipped away at their relationship.No bond can withstand constant fighting.Lost in thought, Lydia absentmindedly traced her fingers over her phone screen. Should she reach out to Lambert? According to Debby, he was probably headed to Rong City.She lowered her gaze, her long eyelashes casting shadows over her troubled eyes. When she first heard that Lambert was looking for her, her
As Lambert stepped out of the apartment, a lost look lingered in his eyes. For the past few months, he had been caught in a cycle of hope and disappointment almost every single day.He should have been used to it by now, but each time he felt let down, hurt, and increasingly restless. The longer the search went on, the more he worried about whether he would ever find Lydia."Hey, don't be too downcast. Finding someone is like this; as long as you persevere, you will eventually locate them!"Lambert nodded at her comforting words, knowing well that now wasn't the time to give up."Lambert, since you haven't found her yet, what's your next move?"He frowned slightly. "I think I'll stay here for a while. According to the information my friend gave me, there might be another Lydia in City Y."She sighed. "You really have it tough. How long do you think it will take to find her? It's like searching for a needle in a haystack!""It's okay;