"Alright, alright, let's not talk about this anymore. Gale, what have you been up to these days? I haven't seen you much, and you don't look too well. You seem a bit worn out," she asked.Gale gave her a rundown of everything that had happened.Summer listened, gaping at the story."It's quite complicated, so I don't really want to get into it. Besides, I'm close to resolving everything. Don't worry about it." Gale smiled."Wait, Gale, your family background and what's happening with the Yarns' are your personal affairs. How you handle it is your business, I support you. But... you've rejected Aurum just like that?""It's impossible for us."Sometimes, fate is a strange thing. If Gale had always been the Yarns' daughter, then she and Aurum would have gotten married. They were inseparable childhood friends.However, Gale disappeared.Not only did she disappear, but she lived with the Warm family and grew up with Sam instead. She was on track to be married to Sam.However, the W
Gale nodded. "That's true."Summer clapped her hands together. "See, I told you! However, Nicole has Shawn's bone marrow and lives with him, so she's probably on his side. Joshua lives in the Lefting family and has witnessed Aurum's devotion to you. He must be on Aurum's side!""Tsk tsk, Gale, what will you do? Your son supports Aurum, but your daughter supports Shawn. You're stuck in the middle, torn between them.""You underestimate Joshua. I've already talked to him. He said he supports all my decisions and will cooperate unconditionally," Gale said.Summer scoffed. "He's too sensible.""You hate Shawn that much? What if he hears you bad-mouthing him and holds a grudge against you..."Summer quickly covered Gale's mouth. "Ugh, don't say that!"She was still afraid of Shawn. After all, he was her boss.The more Summer thought about it, the more anxious she became. Could it be that Shawn was really outside the door?She got up and walked to the door, peering through the crack
She actually noticed that these flowers were meticulously chosen by Joe every day. Unfortunately, Summer was unaware of this and thought he just paid for the florist to do it. However, Joe also did not seize the opportunity to reveal his effort. He could have said it to move Summer. What woman does not like hearing about the effort her man put into romance her?"Mrs. Wood, it's rare to see you so free today. Is your work almost done?" Joe changed the subject."Not yet, but it's getting there.""Your latest series is selling very well in the market. Next month, you'll receive a large bonus. Congratulations. Would you like to treat us?"Gale nodded. "Sure, I'll treat you both."However, Summer quickly waved her hand. "No, no, after this month, except for during work, I don't want to see Joe anymore. I want to be free!""Oh?" Joe looked at her with a smile. "Are you tired of me?""Could you be reasonable, Joe? We've spent too much time together this month!"Summer felt like, apa
Back then, it was Shawn who first expressed his love to her. Gale realized that Joe also had his ways to win a woman's heart. Indeed, he and Shawn were like two peas in a pod, capable of tricks, even goading her to make another bet.It was all up to Summer whether she would take the bait.Once Gale left, Summer looked at Joe."What is this guaranteed win you mentioned? Tell me more," she asked.Although Summer was willing to accept the consequences of her bets, she still felt unsatisfied. If there were a way to turn the tables, she would definitely want to take it. She had been enslaved by Joe that month, but next month, she might have a chance to turn the situation around.Joe approached slowly and stood in front of Summer, his hand resting on her waist. Summer's body tensed for a moment, feeling unnatural, but she did not brush off his touch. She reasoned that a girlfriend should tolerate her boyfriend hugging her.Joe asked, "What do you think? Is there a bet where you'd win f
Joe knew how to push her buttons.Summer really fell for it."Who's scared! I'll play. I'm not scared at all! You promised I'd win for sure, and you can't back out!" Summer said.Joe solemnly answered, "I won't back out."Seeing Summer fall into his trap, he felt pleased. His expression relaxed naturally.Joe collected his fingers, pressing his hand on her waist. "So, have you thought of the bet?"Summer's mind was racing. A bet she would win. She had to ensure her victory, no unexpected surprises, no way Joe would win by sheer luck.Seeing her like this, Joe could not hide his amusement.Intelligent, sharp, and bold, she did not let anyone take advantage of her, whether in work or life. Yet, she could be a bit clueless at times.Joe's suggestion of making another bet was a way to stick around her. This month, Summer played the role of his girlfriend at his every beck and call. Next month, even if she won, he could still be near her whenever he wanted. If Summer did not order
"I bet that I won't fall in love with you within this month!" Summer declared.Joe raised an eyebrow, and a flicker of surprise and intrigue crossed his face. That was the bet she came up with? Summer continued, "If I fall in love with you this month, I lose. If I don't, I win!"The more she talked, the happier she became, feeling like she was the unbeatable genius of the universe.She was sure that she would win this bet because whether or not she loved Joe was solely up to her. Nobody could ever change her mind. As long as she did not admit she had fallen for Joe, she would win. After all, she would never ever fall in love with him. They were enemies. Therefore, she was confident in this bet."What do you say?" She looked at Joe. "Why aren't you saying anything? Are you regretting it now? Hey, you said you'd agree to any bet I suggested!"Joe smiled slyly. "You've certainly rigged this to ensure your victory. How could you possibly fall in love with me? You'd take any opportun
Summer could tolerate all of this. However, the sudden kiss caught her completely off guard.Joe's lips were slightly cool and very soft. Wait, what was she thinking?After what felt like ten seconds or so, Summer finally reacted. She reached out to push Joe away, but he was quicker. He held her wrist, placing her hand on his shoulder as he grew bolder.Summer was almost breathless. "You fool. Open your mouth, breathe, inhale," Joe said, his voice low and husky. Her face turned crimson. "Haven't you kissed before?" Joe asked.Summer was at a loss for words. Admitting she had not seemed too embarrassed. She had been single all this time, and that was supposed to be her first kiss. However, she did not want to admit it.She did not know how to respond, but Joe's eyes gleamed even more. He found her innocence captivating.That discovery only fueled Joe's desire, and he became more daring. Summer could barely catch her breath."Mmm... you..." Summer struggled to push him away, f
She was in her early twenties and had not had her first kiss. So what? It only showed that she valued herself, took her feelings seriously, and never rushed into things."Yes!" Summer nodded. "This was my first kiss. You took it away."Joe smiled and asked, "Can I be responsible?""Responsible? How can you be responsible?" Summer questioned. "How do you want me to be responsible?" Joe inquired.Summer was momentarily stunned."I didn't expect this to be your first time. Sorry," Joe said.Huh? Was he apologizing to her because he had taken her first kiss?He continued, "If I had known it was your first kiss, I would have been gentler."Summer was quiet.So, he felt he had been too rough? Well, Summer was not the type to hold grudges. She was disappointed that Joe had stolen her first kiss like that, but what was done was done."Whatever. There's a first for everything. I'll just take it like I got bit by a dog," Summer replied with a bit of force, wiping the corner of her mo
Summer didn't know, but the more she said that, the more unsettled Gale felt inside. Everyone was telling her that Shawn wasn't that busy, didn't need to work overtime, let alone stay in the office until late at night. So, what was he doing that night? Did he have some secret that she couldn't know?Just as she was pondering this, several exclamations suddenly rang out in the office. "Wow! Look at this!" "Oh my god!" "This is so explosive!" "The hype is skyrocketing!"Several colleagues were glued to their computer screens, their faces full of gossip and excitement. Gale was puzzled and asked, "What's going on? What happened?"Summer immediately picked up her phone. "Let me see... Oh my god!"Gale grew even more curious. What on earth had happened? She hurried over and stared at Summer's phone screen.News stories flashed one after another, relentlessly. Gale quickly caught the most crucial information: "Ivy announced her withdrawal from her latest film, leaving the female
She wondered what Shawn was doing that night, that he came home only at dawn. Where did he go? Was he lying?Just a moment ago, Gale merely felt something was off, but now, she was overwhelmed with a strong sense of panic. Joshua's words about how women flocked to Shawn and how men would not be suddenly busy, suddenly flooded her mind.Even though Gale tried hard to tell herself not to overthink things, that it was impossible, and that Shawn deserved her full trust, she was having a hard time controlling herself!“Gale?" Summer called her several times. “What are you thinking about? You seem so distracted.”“Nothing,” she shook her head. “It’s nothing. I’m getting ready to work on the design. I really can’t delay any further.”She wasn’t in the mood to joke around with Joe and Summer anymore, so she turned and sat down in front of her computer. Her mind was completely blank. What on earth was Shawn doing that night when he came home so late? Clearly, there wasn’t any urgent matter
Summer chuckled, "Look at you, anyone who doesn't know might think I bully you just because my position is higher than yours. Gale, come on, show some authority. I heard from Joe that Shawn has all the shares...""Shh!" Gale quickly covered her mouth. This was a sensitive matter; it wouldn't do to discuss it casually. If someone with ill intentions overheard, it could lead to unnecessary trouble."Okay, okay, I won't say anything," Summer understood her meaning. "Let's talk about work then? Oh great designer, where's your design draft? It was due last week! You've been delaying for quite some time!"Gale looked embarrassed. "I... I haven't finished it yet...""Show me the draft.""I haven't even started the preliminary draft...""What?!" Summer looked shocked. "Gale, how did you become so lax?""There's so much going on, taking care of two children, and Shawn..." Gale's voice trailed off.At this moment, Joe suddenly appeared from nowhere. "Is Shawn clinging to you, or are you
“Sorry, Gale, I'll be more careful next time.” He hugged her, lightly brushing her forehead with his chin.Gale wondered if she was overthinking things. It was just normal work busyness that made Shawn come home a bit late, and she hadn't really minded or dwelled on it. But, it seemed this issue kept resurfacing in her mind.Just as she was thinking, she suddenly felt lighter."Ah..." Gale exclaimed, "Shawn!"He scooped her up horizontally and headed upstairs in large strides. It was another night of intense entanglement. Gale was tired and sleepy. Her eyes were barely open, but just before drifting off to sleep, she managed to say, "I have to go to work tomorrow, on time... no more skipping.""Okay."With Shawn's response, she immediately fell into a deep sleep.She left everything else to him… She was going to fall apart! She didn't know what was going on with Shawn, these past two nights have been endless. Before, he might ask for too much, but he would care about her physica
The trip back home was serene and filled with warmth for Gale. Shawn in contrast, felt tumultuous. By the time they arrived home, the two little ones were already fast asleep in the back seat, slumped over in different directions."Just a moment ago they were chattering non-stop, now they're all curled up asleep," Gale chuckled. "No matter how clever they are, they're still just kids."They were her little darlings. She opened the back door and gently lifted Nicole out. For some reason, when she lifted Nicole, she felt a bit unsteady and swayed."Careful," Shawn noticed and reached out, pulling her and their daughter into his embrace.Gale leaned securely against him. "With you here, how could I fall?""No worries, maybe Nicole's just gotten heavier as she's grown. I'm having trouble carrying her now," Gale said."Let me."She tilted her chin. "You take Joshua. I can manage for this short walk, really.""I can handle both," Shawn replied."Yeah, yeah, I know you're strong."S
"Alright, alright," Joshua shrugged and said, "Old man, you do your thing. Actually, I hope you could be a bit busier.""You want me to be busier?""Yeah, just a bit busier than now. Not too much, just a moderate increase," Joshua gestured, "You're always so leisurely, it makes me uneasy, Shawn!"Shawn asked, "What makes you uneasy?""Your business. I'll have to inherit it in the future! If you continue being so idle and not managing the company well, when I take over, I'll be swamped! Shawn, can't you think about your son?"So that was Joshua's concern. He feared Shawn wouldn’t manage the company well and it would burden him in the future.Gale sighed repeatedly, "How did I end up with such... "She couldn't find the right words.Smart?Mischievous?Shawn replied calmly, "Joshua, do you now realize you're my son? I should consider you? Then let me ask you, what do you want to call me?""Daddy."Joshua smoothly said.Both Shawn and Gale were somewhat surprised.He actuall
"Joshua!" Gale turned around to look at him. "What's been going on in that little head of yours day after day?"Joshua replied seriously, "I'm thinking about you, Mommy. Shawn leaves work on time every day, never stays late. Suddenly he's busy until midnight. Don't you think that's a bit strange?"As he said this, Gale felt something wasn't quite right. But she trusted Shawn enough. The company was big, with lots of business, so the occasional unexpected situation was normal. Even if she pushed the thought further, what would Shawn do? Would he be seeing other women? Gale wasn't concerned at all because Shawn wouldn't give any woman a chance! He loved only her and she was confident that she held the only place in his heart."Alright, I think you've been watching too many dramas lately," Gale said. "Joshua, from now on, you need to cut down on your TV drama time!""No! I refuse!""Joshua, your protest is futile!"Joshua was getting frustrated; he really wanted to watch TV.After
Joshua reluctantly said goodbye to Ivy, "Bye-bye, Ivy. I'll come over again when I have time. You can come to my house too! Love you! Mwah mwah!"He kept blowing kisses."Shawn," Gale looked at him, "Does your son know no shame?""I'm starting to suspect he might have a genetic mutation."Both Shawn and Gale were quite reserved by nature, especially in expressing their feelings. They loved subtly and rarely voiced it openly. But Joshua was different. He worked his charm on everyone from the old Lucas down to babies. He could make anyone happy if he wanted to!The car moved along the road.Gale asked, "What do you think about Ivy's condition today?""What do I think?""Yes.""I didn’t observe closely," Shawn replied. "Why?"Gale couldn't help but laugh, "I allow you to look and give your opinion. It's fine. You don’t have to create your distance so strictly.""She's better than last time," Shawn said. "Beyond that, I don’t know."Even if he knew, he couldn't say.Gale reac
Ivy stared at Gale, her eyes bright and clear.“Gale, if I hold the truth in my hands, would you want me to reveal it?”Gale nodded firmly. “Yes!”“Do you want to know the whole truth?”“I do!”Ivy blinked, then suddenly smiled. “Okay, okay, Gale, I know what to do now.”“Can you tell me now?”“Not yet.”“Why?” Gale asked. “Have you been threatened?”She grew tense all of a sudden.Ivy shook her head. “No. It’s just too complicated to explain in a few words. But with your support, I suddenly feel stronger and know what I need to do!”Even if President Wood tried to stop her, she would expose it. She would vent her anger, punish Paul, tear off Aurum’s hypocritical mask, let Gale know Aurum's ugliness... Ivy decided to act on her own. She resolved silently.Smells of food wafted from the kitchen.“Dinner’s ready,” Ivy smiled. “Joshua, Nicole, did you wash your hands?”They replied, “We’re going now!”“I’ll take you.”“No,” Gale stopped her. “They’re big enough to wash the