Elijah leaned down, looking at Liesel from above.His hands reached for Liesel's shoulder as if to comfort her, but she turned to avoid him. Her eyes were red, but she didn't seem the least bit weak. Her cold gaze still held little emotion."You followed me."Elijah smiled, the corners of his eyes slightly lifting. His expression was slightly teasing. "I followed you? I wouldn't call it following. If you're upset about this, I can only say we're destined to meet here."Then, he raised his hand and pointed in a direction. "Today is also my mother's death anniversary."Liesel found it hard to believe him.There was always a smile on Elijah's face, but now it lacked that usual carefree arrogance. Now, there was a gentler expression on his face."That's why I said we're destined to meet here. Our mothers are destined too."Elijah's eyes weren't black but a light amber color. There was always a bit of casualness when he looked at people, making it seem like he was joking."We are t
Elijah's mother's picture was on the grave. In it, she had a bright, graceful face. Her dark eyes shone like stars in the night. A gentle smile played on her lips, and her eyes curved as if they were speaking to her. "Come meet your future mother-in-law." Elijah teased with a grin.Liesel's eyes widened in shock. "Are you crazy!"Liesel wanted to turn and leave, but she glared at him, placed the flowers he brought on the grave, and bowed quickly before hurrying off.Watching her flee, Elijah's smile didn't waver. He knelt on the cold ground, and the overcast sky seemed to brighten slightly at that moment."Ms. Zucker, I brought a young lady you might like and I'm pursuing her. You always told me to live freely and boldly when I was young, and she's exactly like that. Even though people try to control her, she still lives her own way. I think you'd appreciate her."Ms. Zucker, if you're watching me, maybe you could tell Ms. Mallone that I really like her daughter. I hope to look
Liesel had already gotten into the car before Elijah could continue rambling.As it was Elijah, even the color of his car was striking. It was a pink sports car, a shade that even Liesel wouldn't have chosen.However, his choice of car somewhat suited him perfectly."I just told Ms. Zucker that I really like you and am pursuing you. So, I've got her blessing," Elijah said with a cheeky smile.Liesel didn't even want to look at him and felt an urge to call him insane.Elijah suddenly asked, "It's your father's birthday today. How about I join you? I'm the new CEO of Hardin Group, I won't embarrass you."The Hardins might not be able to be as influential as the Ford family, but they weren't far behind. He firmly believed he was no less capable than Jacob. At least in understanding women, he thought he had Jacob beat.When they hit a red light, Elijah followed the rules and stopped the car on the roadside. He chuckled and said, "Look at us, me in all black and you in all white. We'
They didn't really shop around the mall. In the end, Liesel successfully picked out a few nearly-expired health supplements with Elijah's help. All the health supplements they picked up were set to expire in a week and were items no one wanted.Liesel didn't spend a penny and got these items for free.Meanwhile, Elijah managed to wander off somewhere and found two small flowers, one black and one white. As she was wearing a white dress, Liesel wore the black flower, while Elijah, who was dressed in black, wore the white flower. Dressed like this, they hardly looked like they were on their way to a birthday celebration with Liesel's eyes still red from crying at the cemetery.However, Elijah was particularly pleased with her outfit.Even Elijah was slightly taken aback when they drove to the Sharp residence. Calling it a villa hardly did it justice because it looked more like a modern garden estate. Anyone unaware would truly think the Sharp family was loaded."Your house looks p
"No more jokes. Let's go in." Elijah extended his hand to Liesel, and she looked down at it. This time, she finally didn't refuse his offer.Now divorced from Jacob, she truly needed a new source of support. Though often talkative and fond of joking, Elijah was still a gentleman with boundaries. Moreover, the Hardin family was powerful enough to rival the Ford family.With Elijah by her side, Jeffrey should understand that she was still not to be trifled with. She could rely on someone else even without Jacob. Until she became strong enough on her own, she couldn't allow Jeffrey to have any ridiculous ideas.Jeffrey's birthday celebration was bustling with activities as people laughed and mingled in small groups. Some were praising Jeffrey to his face, while others were trying to think of ways to hover close to Jacob. Many wanted to cooperate professionally with Jacob.Suddenly, the main door opened. The sound wasn't particularly loud, but the security was impossible to miss. About
Elijah didn't mind the pain. In fact, he just smiled and led Liesel into the venue.Knowing who Elijah was, the guests eagerly greeted him.After handing the gift to the Sharp family's butler, Elijah then guided Liesel step by step toward Jacob. He was clearly beaming. "Mr. Ford, we meet again."Jacob's gaze lightly swept over Liesel, who met his eyes with a cold expression and held onto Elijah's arm a little tighter.Elijah chuckled and said, "Lili, don't be nervous. You've been working with Mr. Ford for three years now; surely you're still not intimidated by him. Oh, right, not everyone is as approachable as I am."The remark seemed aimed at Jacob as a jab. However, Jacob didn't focus on that and only noticed Elijah calling her "Lili."Even he had never called her that.Jacob's gaze turned ice cold as he said, "It appears you two have a close relationship.""Very close indeed. We've even met each other's family members," Elijah replied cheerfully while making sure not to miss
Liesel couldn't stay calm anymore. Though young at the time, she remembered Heather's elegance and beauty. She recalled her exquisite face that shone so brightly.Heather loved fashion dearly. Even before she passed, she made this gown just so she could leave with dignity.This was the last thing her mother made with her own hands. Something so precious wasn't meant to be sullied by someone like Natalie, a bug who should be living in the shadows!"Take it off." Liesel's hand tightened around Natalie's neck. She was using all her strength."Take it off!" She gritted her teeth as she enunciated each word.Liesel's eyes were red and misty. They were filled with hatred as she stared at the woman before her."Even if you're stupid, you must know what this dress means to me. I don't care about other things like Jeffrey's love, Jacob's affection, or even the title of Mrs. Ford. I can give it all to you! But you must take this dress off!"Liesel's vision blurred, and she could almost se
Jacob had never loved Liesel. He could lend Liesel his coat to save her from embarrassment in a moment of disgrace, but that coat was always ready for Natalie, and he could always solve any of Natalie's troubles.Jacob Ford. She silently repeated his name in her heart, wondering how much more he could disappoint her.Liesel lowered her head while letting out a soft laugh. Yet, tears streamed uncontrollably. Each teardrop hit the floor with a soft plop.Suddenly, her gaze locked onto something. She saw a broken photo frame not far away.Liesel froze, completely losing her grace and composure. She was no longer the refined young lady praised by others. She crawled over, and her slender fingers reached for the cracked glass of the photo.She vividly remembered this was the last picture her mother took with her before she passed away. Back then, her mother had told her, "Lili, you must live a happy and fulfilling life. Never, ever compromise yourself for anyone. I'm watching you from
Ophelia still remembered the melancholy and confusion that she'd seen in Edward's eyes. He had looked like a young boy who couldn't find his way home.The moment Edward saw her, he stubbed out his cigarette. Holding her hand, he led the bleary-eyed Ophelia back to the bedroom.Worried that she'd catch a cold from the freezing winds, he made her a cup of hot chamomile tea. She didn't like the taste, so he had to try his hardest to coax her into drinking it.Upset, she said to him accusingly, "Edward, I feel I'm turning into a chamomile plant."Edward laughed.He was handsome. Even when he laughed, he looked attractive. Amusement bloomed on his charming and elegant face.She complimented him dazedly, "Edward, you're really good-looking."Even though she was still mad that she'd been coaxed into drinking a whole mug of chamomile tea, she still found herself lost in his handsomeness. Edward's eyes were curved from his broad grin, and he reached out to rub her head."You're very goo
"So it is because of Stanley.""Well, I'm much older than you. Stanley is young so there wouldn't be a generation gap between you two. You must like someone younger."That's not all. Stanley has excellent grades. I naturally understand that you'd choose him. After all, he's the first guy you've ever called your boyfriend."You don't have to say anything; I understand. I'm not up to standard. Stanley will definitely achieve greater things than me in the future, so I shouldn't keep clinging to you…" I must have put you in a difficult position. If I had known that you had picked Stanley, I wouldn't have come back and disturbed you. I've disturbed the peace in your life."Every single word Edward said felt like a stab in Ophelia's heart.Was he crazy? Why was he talking about Stanley in every sentence?Ophelia tried her hardest to bite her tongue, but in the end, she failed to hold her anger in."You keep talking about Stanley, but didn't I already tell you that we've broken up? A
Ophelia snatched the junk food box in a huff to fill the gift boxes with snacks."You! Stop causing trouble!""Okay, okay! I'll stop messing around." With that, Joseph muttered, "It was just a few sweets…"Ophelia glared at him. Joseph immediately cleared his throat and no longer uttered a word. Instead of teasing her, he also began helping her pack the boxes. Not trusting him, Ophelia intentionally inspected each box. She only felt assured to hand him the boxes once she was certain none of the chocolates or snacks were missing.Not long after Joseph started packing, he began looking around absentmindedly. He looked down and noticed many private messages on Ophelia's phone. Those still part of Yvonne's fandom had sent those messages. They were scolding Ophelia.Ophelia merely glanced at the messages before nonchalantly turning off the phone screen. Not only were she and Joseph done wrapping the boxes, but Edward had finished preparing breakfast as well. Edward prepared all of
"Oh!" Joseph exclaimed. He whirled around and took a step back before patting Edward's palm. "Shouldn't you give me something in return for my advice? A present or something, right?"Edward came off as rather domineering as he asked icily, "Tell me which car you want. What model and series? When do you want it?"Yes, Edward had brought up cars. Joseph's eyes lit up. "I want the latest SUV from Land Rover within the next three days."It wasn't as if Joseph couldn't afford the car. He simply liked messing with his friends. After all, free things were the best. "Sure." Joseph continued flatteringly, "Bro, this is how it works. Women are usually more soft-hearted, especially someone like Ophelia at her age. You should give in sometimes."Be shameless if she ever tries to drive you away. Hug her and act pitiful by saying that you don't want to leave her. Say that you can't sleep or will have nightmares if you don't see her. You can even be more dramatic."Joseph was quick-witted enou
Ophelia was left dumbfounded after hearing Joseph's advice. What nonsense was he talking about? He was supposed to be on her side, not sabotage her. Edward shoved Ophelia out of the kitchen. "Something's wrong with his brain, so just ignore him. Go and rest."Ophelia was still perplexed as Edward pushed her out of the kitchen. However, she didn't probe further since she refused to speak to him for now. Once Ophelia was gone, Joseph immediately cursed. "You're such a beast. 28cm, 28cm. Why don't you cut off that thing of yours? Did you think your sweetheart is someone who appears in those adult films?" Edward's eyes twitched. He finally understood what Joseph had been blabbering about. Joseph was such a pervert through and through. Edward slammed the knife onto the chopping board. "I'm talking about my age. What's gotten into you?""Oh, it's your age." Joseph sighed in relief. He had been worried about how Draskia could have such a pervert like Edward.After a while, Joseph e
"Ophelia." As soon as Edward spoke, Ophelia glanced at him nonchalantly. "I'm starving."Edward was relieved that she was still willing to talk to him. "I'll prepare breakfast." With that, he cast a glance at Joseph. "Come and help me."Joseph scoffed. He got to his feet before stretching lazily. He hadn't slept for the whole night as he accompanied Ophelia playing video games and doing other things. He was indeed slightly exhausted.But Joseph was well aware that Edward did not want him to be alone with Ophelia. Regardless, Joseph was fine with helping Edward with preparing breakfast. After all, he was there for the drama.Every three days, a housekeeper would drop by Ophelia's condominium and replenish her fridge with all kinds of fresh vegetables and fruits. While studying abroad, Edward wasn't used to the local fast food. Hence, he became independent and learned how to prepare meals on his own. Now, he was an excellent cook.However, Edward was still at a loss on how to
Ophelia took a picture of the fan merchandise she had wrapped before posting it on Twitter, where Chelsians were still waiting for the giveaway. No one could be bothered with Yvonne, who was trying to stay relevant.Ophelia was still preparing the fan merchandise when she heard the doorbell ring in the middle of the night. Within the next second, she received a WhatsApp call from Joseph, which she answered."Ophelia, open the door for me."Ophelia was surprised. She wondered what was wrong with Joseph. Shouldn't he be sleeping now? Why had he dropped by in the middle of the night?She was no longer worried, knowing that Joseph was at the door. She opened it and watched Joseph squeeze through the door while holding a large bag of what seemed to be snacks."Shouldn't you be sleeping now? Why are you here?" Ophelia couldn't help but roll her eyes."You're not asleep either." Joseph went through the large bag before finally fishing out a game controller, which was also a limited-edit
Sebastian's face had turned ashen, having understood how grave the situation was. "I'll go and apologize to the Fords tomorrow. This matter mustn't drag down our family."Although Brandon doted on Yvonne, he refused to let her have her own way. "Dad, she should apologize for what she did, so you don't have to go. I'll take her to apologize to the Fords tomorrow to show our sincerity."Veronica refused to give in. She continued protecting Yvonne, feeling rather upset. "No! We should never allow our Yvonne to apologize!"Who did they take Yvonne for? Why should she apologize in person? The Fords are really misusing their power over these small squabbles. "If they want an apology, I'll go! No matter what, Yvonne's not allowed to go! She's a celebrity. If someone takes her picture, her journey to becoming a star is completely ruined!""Her journey to becoming a star is definitely ruined if she doesn't apologize in person! Mom, you need to understand. Without anyone's orders, would pe
"Dad, Mom. Yvonne has always been filming on set this whole time. How could she have offended Chelsea? It probably has nothing to do with Chelsea."As soon as Brandon finished speaking, Sebastian and Veronica thought his words made sense. However, Yvonne became sheepish and didn't say a word.She had sought out Sebastian, Veronica, and Brandon to seek justice for her, yet she felt extremely embarrassed. She continued sobbing, sounding sadder than ever."Yvonne, what's going on? Say something! I won't know what actually happened if you keep crying!" Veronica was so upset that she began tearing up.Yvonne threw herself into Veronica's arms. "Mom! What am I going to do? They're going to blacklist me from the industry. What should I do…"Brandon's eyes twitched. He felt that something wasn't right. He wondered if Yvonne had gone viral after offending someone in the entertainment industry.Brandon's heart raced as he scrolled through the Twitter trends. His heart sank instantly, and h