KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!After knocking on the door thrice, Kisa waited quietly in front of the door with her head down.Soon after, the door opened.Jensen was dressed in casual clothes. Nevertheless, his relaxed and casual attire did not conceal his air of nobility.He had a cigarette between his fingers. However, he put it out the moment he saw Kisa."What's up, Kisa?" Jensen asked as he turned around to open the windows.Jensen's thoughtfulness and consideration made Kisa feel a mixture of emotions.She had always thought Jensen did not smoke. However, it turned out that he only refrained from smoking in front of her because he was concerned about her health.Suddenly, she thought of how her mother and Jensen's father's relationship was filled with regrets and sorrow. She felt a lump in her throat.Then, she inhaled deeply and smiled at Jensen, "It's alright, Jensen. I'm much better now. A little cigarette smoke is fine.""Better safe than sorry."Jensen poured Kisa a glass
Jensen rushed over to Kisa and knelt down with a look of panic she had never seen before on his face, "I'm sorry, I...""It's fine. It's fine..."Kisa shook her head and continued smiling at him, "Really, it's fine."Jensen frowned deeply.He carefully carried her onto the couch, "Hold on, I'll go get the medical kit.""It's fine. It's just a few minor cuts; I can handle them myself," Kisa said as she frantically prepared to leave.Suddenly, Jensen forcefully sat her on the couch and said, "Don't move!"Kisa stared at Jensen's frantic figure and felt her heart race.'Why did I find Jensen a little terrifying earlier on? As far as I can remember, Jensen has always been a gentleman. Even when he suspected me of having a hidden agenda for getting close to Gilbert, he spoke in the gentlest tone. I've never seen Jensen act this way; what in the world happened? Did he go through something terrible while he was abroad for the past few years, causing him to change his temperament? Or d
Kisa pursed her lips, "Whatever happened just now, don't take it to heart. I'm fine, really."Jensen smiled and did not respond.'The atmosphere today is a little suffocating,' thought Kisa.When she saw the glass shards on the floor, she squatted down to clean them up.However, Jensen swiftly grabbed her arm, "I'll do it. You should go home.""But...""Come on now. Go home and rest."Jensen caressed her swollen eyes and continued, "When you get home, you can do some warm compressions to soothe your eyes. Aren't you going to the Case family's house tomorrow? Don't let them see you in this state.""Alright..."Before leaving, Kisa glanced at the mess on the floor.Jensen suddenly said from behind her, "Don't be scared, Kisa. In the future, I won't ever act this way in front of you again."'What about when I'm not around?' wondered Kisa.It was evident that Jensen had his secrets. However, Kisa did not dare to find out."Dad, mom's sick. Could you...""Stop right there. Wha
Kisa saw the glint in Carolyn's eyes.However, she did not respond and took out the gifts from the car."Carolyn, I know you love jewelry, so I bought this for you when I was at the mall just now," Kisa said as she opened one of the jewelry boxes.When she opened the box, an emerald necklace came into view.Under the sunlight, the shine of the gemstone was almost blinding.Carolyn was delighted. Nevertheless, she exclaimed politely, "Oh! Why'd you bring us gifts when you're only coming home for dinner? We're family; you didn't have to."However, Carolyn's actions were more honest than her words; she accepted Kisa's gifts."Come in! Your father's been waiting for you the entire day," Carolyn said.She held Kisa's arm affectionately as they entered the house.Kisa saw Christopher on the couch the moment they entered the house.Christopher had an awkward-looking expression on his face. His smile looked forced and seemed ingenuine.'Well, he's a businessman, after all. He's not
"Why don't I help you put it on, Carolyn? Since the necklace matches what you're wearing today, it'll definitely look fantastic.""Really?" Carolyn smiled, delighted.She had always loved jewelry, particularly emerald necklaces.Kisa helped Carolyn put on her necklace with a smile, then told the servants to bring them a mirror.Kisa placed the mirror in front of Carolyn and said, "Doesn't it look stunning, Carolyn?""Mhm!" Carolyn nodded enthusiastically.She then held Kisa's hand and said affectionately, "You didn't have to, Kisa. This necklace looks quite expensive.""Carolyn, you were kind enough to send me my mother's belongings. You even allowed me to return to the Case family house to search for more of her belongings. Naturally, I have to show you my appreciation with some gifts. That's why buying you this necklace is worth it, no matter the price."Just as Christopher heard Kisa's words, a stiff expression appeared briefly on his face.Meanwhile, Carolyn smiled without
Kisa smiled at Carolyn politely and said, "I'm always busy with work, so it'll be easier for me to stay outside. We could meet again at the filming set if Sharon's face recovers fast. Who knows, maybe we might be working on a project together.""Heh. My face should be the least of your worries now. Kelvin has said it already. I'll recover before Kohen McCray's banquet.""Does that mean you'll be attending the event too?""Of course. It's a huge event. How can an A-lister like me be absent?"Even though Sharon's face had been disfigured, she was still arrogant as usual.Kisa sipped on her tea while smiling. She remained quiet.After finishing their meal, Carolyn actually brought Kisa upstairs to look for her mother's belongings.The room which Kisa's mother stayed in was always unoccupied. No one cleaned the room, so it was covered with dust. It looked just like another storeroom.Kisa searched through the room and found nothing.She recalled the last time she saw that photo al
"Hey, it's my birthday. Could you show me some respect?""Didn't I send you a text wishing you during midnight? This morning, I sent someone to bring a present for you too. Are you saying those were not enough respect?"Gilbert pulled a long face and replied, "I don't care. I'm the birthday boy, so I'm in charge. You must grant all my wishes."Gilbert chuckled and began drinking.Kelvin smiled and turned toward Gracie and Davian, "You guys can continue singing. I'll stay here and chat with Gilbert."Soon after, the room was filled with singing again. This time around, it sounded much better than the screams before.Gilbert gulped two glasses of beer. He was silent the whole time and looked tense. It was obvious that he was not in a good mood.Kelvin raised his glass and clinked glasses with Gilbert. Kelvin then said casually, "I saw Kisa today."As expected, Gilbert stopped drinking upon hearing that.Kelvin laughed at him quietly and purposely remained silent. He was waiting
Kelvin was confused and asked, "D-didn't you end things with her already? Why are-"Davian quickly knocked Kelvin's shoulder, signaling him to keep quiet.Kelvin looked at Gilbert's dark face as if he understood something.Kelvin pursed his lips and stopped asking questions.Deep down, he could not help but commented internally, 'This man is always like this. He would never express properly when he cares about something. This is why others always misunderstand him. Sigh.'At night, Jensen cooked up a meal again. It was filled with dishes which Kisa used to love.He untied his apron, revealing his casual yet aesthetic loungewear.He poured two glasses of red wine and passed a glass to Kisa."Kohen will be here in about ten days' time. After his banquet, your popularity and connections will expand a lot. At that point, you can begin the production for your drama series."Kisa nodded, "This is a success all thanks to you.""There's no need for such formalities when you're with m
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