Davian, Gilbert's right-hand man, held an impressive level of prestige within the company. He was granted the rare privilege of entering the CEO's office without a heads-up, simply by knocking.Sara observed him closely as he approached the CEO's door. She could not hold back her frustration and scolded the nearby junior assistant. "What kind of work ethic is this? Didn't Mr. Kooper make it crystal clear that no one should disturb him? If Mr. Park interrupts Mr. Kooper's private moment with his wife, who's going to take responsibility?"Davian, caught off guard by her severe tone, instinctively glanced over at the junior assistant.The junior assistant rolled her eyes at Sara, clearly annoyed, and then smiled at Davian. "Mr. Park, allow me to notify Mr. Kooper on your behalf.""Ah, sure."The junior assistant wasted no time in dialing Gilbert's landline. A smirk spread across her face as she relayed the message. "Mr. Park, Mr. Kooper invites you in, and he also requests you bring
"You just have to go!" Gilbert exclaimed, crouching down and gripping her hand with an infectious grin. "Come on, you've got to meet the girl who will steal your son's heart one day."Kisa was dumbfounded. 'How can he talk so confidently about a future that's far from certain?'Davian, standing behind Gilbert, cleared his throat awkwardly. "Uh, Mr. Kooper, Kelvin only invited you... not your wife."Gilbert's face fell. "Well, you can tell him that if my better half isn't invited, I'm not going either."Davian was at a loss for words.Kisa urged. "You really should go. It'd be rude not to.""But you're coming with me." He insisted.Faced with his unwavering gaze, Kisa finally gave in with a nod. She was curious to see the adorable child as well, but she worried about making everyone else uncomfortable.The day after tomorrow, bright and early, Gilbert first took her to the Kooper residence to collect the children. It was not until around ten in the morning that they made their w
Gracie shot him a fiery glare and grabbed Kisa's hand, exclaiming, "Don't mind him. He's absolutely obsessed with parading our daughter around in front of his buddies. It's beyond infuriating!""Hey, what's the big deal with showing off my precious daughter to those single losers?" he snapped back, only to receive another dramatic eye roll from Gracie. His face fell, a picture of pure hurt. "She's my daughter too, remember?""Oh, really? And what exactly did you contribute? You just provided that tiny little something, while I endured nine months of pregnancy and all the pain that came with it!""I..." Kelvin was left utterly speechless, seething with anger.Kisa, caught in the crossfire of their heated exchange, let out an awkward, nervous laugh. Gracie pulled her away to play with the children, completely disregarding Kelvin's existence. Furious, he clenched his teeth and glared at Kisa with a jealous intensity.'How can this outsider stand against me, the rightful husband and f
Sara did not seem angry upon hearing what they said. Instead, she responded with a loaded smile."I was merely sharing my genuine thoughts. Your reactions, however, seem like you're trying to hide something."Gracie was laced with fury, and she raised her fist, ready to take a swing at Sara. Kisa held her back, lightly chuckling at Sara."We're offering sincere advice, too—visit an eye doctor. With your level of blindness and constant blabber, you're bound to get in trouble."Off to the side, Kelvin tensely observed the women's verbal sparring, worried it might escalate into a physical fight. Gilbert shook his head, pulling Kelvin into a corner."You've only got yourself to blame." Gilbert bluntly told Kelvin.Annoyed and feeling wronged, Kelvin shot back. "You're the one who got mixed up with her. You wanted her gone for your wife's sake, so I had to clean up after you. Are we even buddies anymore?"Gilbert eyed him skeptically. "She wanted to see your baby; how does that invol
Just as Sara clenched her fists, her face twisted with hatred as she glared at Kisa, Ada unexpectedly asked her a question with a seemingly innocent smile. Although her smile was endearing, there was an icy chill in her eyes. It was astounding how intimidating the gaze of a six-year-old could be.Sara felt a sudden, inexplicable unease and forced a smile. "Oh no, I was just admiring the unique protection charm your mommy got for Natasha.""But, Madam, the way you looked at my mommy was super mean, like you wanted to hurt her or something."No sooner had Ada spoken, Gilbert shot a warning glance at Sara, his eyes narrowing with an unmistakable coldness. Sara secretly gritted her teeth, struggling to contain the jealousy and resentment raging within her.She feigned a smile and said, "You must have misunderstood. Your mommy and I are great friends."Ada pouted, unconvinced. She dashed over to Kelvin, shaking his arm. "Uncle Kelvin, that lady is super loud and annoying. She could sca
"One day, I swear, I'll make you all pay!"Gracie's eyes bulged in disbelief. "What... what did you just say? You want to make us all pay? You are pretty gutsy, huh? If you think you can, then come on, bring it on!" Gracie roared, rolling up her sleeves and charging at Sara again.Sara's face filled with fear as she backed away, looking innocent and pitiful. "Gracie, what has gotten into you? I didn't say a thing! I—ah!"Before she could finish, Gracie shoved her to the ground and cursed, calling her a worthless woman. Just as Gracie straddled her, ready to strike again, Kelvin shoved her away."Enough already! What is up with you lately? You are flying off the handle like some kind of banshee!""A banshee? You are calling me a banshee?" Gracie trembled with anger. "I bet you're in cahoots with this tramp, so now you can't stand the sight of me, Kelvin! I must have been blind to marry you. I want a divorce!""Have you lost your mind?" Kelvin shouted back, furious. "When did you s
No matter who it was—Kelvin or Gilbert—Sara's ultimate goal was to stir up trouble for them. When she could not find a weak spot in Kisa's relationship with Gilbert, she targeted Kelvin and Gracie. Gracie, with her pure heart and strong sense of justice, was an easy target for Sara.Gracie stared at the baby in the stroller, tears streaming down her face as her heart ached more and more. Ada and Andrew tried desperately to comfort her, but their words did little to help. Kisa embraced her, reassuringly saying, "Don't cry. We've all seen how deeply Kelvin cares for you. It's impossible for him to have a secret affair with Sara.""But who knows?" Gracie sobbed. "Maybe he's been hiding it all along. He used to say he was treating Sara's wounds and would often visit her. God only knows what happened between them. And just now, the way he treated me and Sara—you saw it too. He has changed, Kisa. I'm telling you; people change over time."Kisa shook her head, certain that Kelvin would nev
A figure stood at the archway, a cigarette nonchalantly hanging from his lips. His mouth was twisted into a cunning, enigmatic smirk, belying his seemingly refined appearance. Framed by a pair of gold-rimmed glasses, his eyes harbored a wicked glint, revealing his true, sinister nature. This man was none other than Shaun.It seemed as though he had come with a purpose, seeking out Kisa. Spotting her from afar, he waved at her, beckoning her to approach.Kisa patted Gracie's back, urging her to find her calm, before walking toward Shaun. They were at the Hoover residence, a place where Shaun likely would not dare to engage in any underhanded schemes. As she approached, Shaun turned and walked inside, as if enticing her to follow him somewhere. Beyond the archway lay a stairway, which Shaun ascended. Most of the guests were in the foyer and front yard, their laughter and lively music creating a vibrant atmosphere. Kisa glanced upstairs, where Shaun had already vanished from sight. Furr
In a small town in the South, a gentle breeze caressed the cheeks of passersby, creating a pleasant and serene atmosphere. This town, known for its tourism, was adorned with flowers even in its narrow alleys. The surrounding houses were all quaint inns, exuding a poetic and picturesque charm.Beneath an arching bridge, Kisa set up an easel to display and sell her paintings. She had always loved painting since childhood. Although she had not achieved great success in this field, her vivid and evocative paintings were very popular with tourists. She would sell most of her paintings every day.On weekends, Blake would join her at the stall, but today was Wednesday, and she was alone. After arranging her paintings, she had barely sat down when people began to gather around. Some admired her art, while others immediately offered to buy. Her paintings were reasonably priced, which attracted many customers."Miss, I'd like that painting of the snow-covered rose garden at night.""Alright,
In the backyard, Kohen looked at his older brother's calm expression, a hint of worry in his voice. "Bro, are you alright?""I'm fine," Hayes said, adjusting the blanket on his lap. "Tomorrow, take me to meet those medical geniuses you found.""Oh, sure..." Kohen nodded in agreement, but after a moment, he could not help but ask, "Bro, what did that woman say to you that made you change your mind so suddenly?"Hayes gazed at the stars in the sky, his voice cool and distant. "She told me she's doing well, very happy. Then she pointed out how pitiful and miserable I am right now. She asked me if I don't feel envious, knowing how well she is doing compared to me."Kohen grimaced, realizing that the woman had provoked his brother into action.Hayes lowered his eyes, a faint smile on his face. "That's right. How could I not be envious? So, I want to heal my legs, live a good life, and show her that I can do better than her."Kohen felt a pang of sympathy for his brother. From Hayes's
Mentioning Hayes, Eylul's expression became complex. "Hayes is reclusive and doesn't like to see people. Only a single old servant has been taking care of him all these years. I only met him once, back when I married Kohen."Mia's heart ached, recalling the enigmatic yet deeply emotional man. She could not help but feel a lump in her throat. "How's his health?" Mia asked.Eylul replied, "His health is fine, but his legs have remained the same. Kohen has found top orthopedic experts for him and even sought out Kelvin Hoover from Calthon, but he refuses treatment. For so many years, he hasn't even stepped outside the backyard.""You mean he's been living in the backyard all this time?" Jensen asked gravely.Eylul nodded. "Yes, Kohen wanted him to live in the main house, but he refused. He only likes staying in the backyard. Moreover, the room he stays in used to be..." Eylul glanced at Mia. She had heard that Mia used to live in that room.With a complicated expression, Mia pursed h
"Let's forget everything that just happened,' Mia said.Jensen looked up at her. In the moonlight, his eyes were deep and complex, profound and unfathomable.Mia tried to muster a smile. "You don't have to feel burdened. In a way, I forced you. And you must have always disliked me. Actually, I didn't come to you for money; I just wanted to see you. Now that I have, I should go. Jensen, from now on... take care."With that, she walked away, fearing that if she lingered any longer, she would not be able to leave. But after only a few steps, she was embraced from behind.Jensen's voice was low and hoarse. "Stay with me."Mia trembled at his words. Jensen continued. "But I still have so many things to do and someone in my heart I can't let go of. I don't know... when I will be able to give you a satisfactory answer. If you don't want to stay with me without any promises or guarantees, you can—""I'm willing," Mia blurted out, "as long as I can be with you, I don't care about anything
Mia's face changed instantly. " You... you know I like Jensen, why would you...""Heh, if you like Jensen, shouldn't you be willing to do anything for him? If you can't even do this, how can you claim to love him?""I won't do it! Doing this would be betraying Jensen. I would risk my life for him, but I can't do this."Adrien stared at her flushed face and gently chuckled, his words loaded with meaning. "Aren't you feeling all hot and bothered yet?"Mia frowned. Her body was indeed getting hotter and more agitated. 'Why would Adrien ask this? Could it be the drink...?'As the thought crossed her mind, her heart sank. Seeing Adrien's cold expression and the man's playful smile, Mia turned and ran. But before she could take more than a few steps, she was dragged back. Weakened by the drink, her desperate struggles were futile. As the man pressed her down, playing with her like a toy, she closed her eyes in despair. She thought she could never face Jensen again. With a bitter laugh,
Adrien Tanner, Jensen's father, stood before Mia with a warm smile. "My son is truly awkward when it comes to matters of the heart. He's even willing to refuse such a beautiful young woman like you."Mia stared at him, her tears suddenly streaming down her face. "I only wanted to see him, even if it was to face rejection. Wouldn't it better to say it clearly to my face?""Yes, it would." Adrien agreed. "But standing here stubbornly won't help, because he left on a business trip a couple of days ago."Mia's heart ached even more, realizing that Jensen had avoided using the front door just to evade her.Adrien continued. "I have a way to make him come to you willingly, but it depends on whether you're willing to cooperate."Mia nodded. "What do I have to do?"Adrien motioned to his bodyguard, who handed him a glass of wine. "Drink this," he said.Mia furrowed her brow, hesitant.Adrien gently patted her shoulder, like a father would."Don't be afraid. I won't harm you. From the
Filled with guilt, Mia stepped forward, but Kohen suddenly pulled out a handgun and aimed it at her."Get out!"Jensen pulled Mia back. He looked at the cold man before him. It was this man who had taken him in years ago. At that time, Kohen was young, a carefree and privileged young man. Now, he seemed to have grown up all at once, his eyes colder and more distant.Jensen said with a troubled expression, "If you ever need me in the future, don't hesitate to find me."Kohen sneered coldly; pain etched in his brow. He mocked himself. "I never should have taken you in back then. In the end, it was I who harmed my own brother."Jensen pursed his lips, not knowing what to say, only feeling an unbearable pain in his heart. It was the first time he felt he owed someone. That sense of indebtedness suffocated him."Get out, and don't let me see you two ever again."On that night, Jensen and Mia left the McCray family. As a result of Hayes's ordeal, the McCray family underwent tremendous
"What on earth happened?"Jensen did not speak. Mia choked out. "The collaboration between the Burton family and the McCray family was a trap. We were ambushed by the Burton family, and Hayes... he was hit by a car trying to save us.""Damn it!" Kohen cursed under his breath, abruptly pulling a knife from a nearby bodyguard and pointing it at them. "What are your lives worth? Why would my brother save you? Why?"Mia bit her lip, tears streaming down her face. 'It's my fault. I wanted to save Jensen, but I should have gone alone. I shouldn't have dragged Hayes into this. He seemed cold-blooded and heartless, and I never thought that he would risk his life for me. Why was he so good to me?'"Kohen..."Suddenly, a weak cry rang out. Hayes had awakened.Kohen hurriedly moved closer, gripping Hayes's hand. "Bro!"Hayes's face was deathly pale. He did not look at Kohen, but instead turned his gaze to Mia. His eyes were calm. He saw Mia's red-rimmed eyes and the tears lingering there,
Hayes was sent flying by the car, his body crashing into a wall before bouncing back.Mia's entire body felt ice-cold as she trembled, yelling, "Hayes!""Kill them all!" A hoarse, aged voice suddenly rang out from the entrance. It was Curtis. He looked at Kendall's lifeless body on the ground, his eyes filled with rage, shouting, "Run them over! I want them to join my grandson in death!""Ah!" Jensen roared, disregarding the guards' swinging knives, and like a madman, charged at Curtis. Curtis's face changed, desperately pulling a nearby guard in front of him as a shield. But it was useless. Jensen, like a crazed beast, attacked anyone in his path. Soon, his knife was held against Curtis's throat.Curtis trembled all over. "Wh-What do you want?"Jensen, covered in blood with splatters on his face, looked like a demon that had emerged from a battleground. He grabbed Curtis and held him hostage in front of him. "Let us go!""Don't even think about it!" Curtis retorted angrily. "You