"Who could be happy in a situation like this?" Shawn leaned back on the sofa, arms crossed. "He's in a bad mood. Are you feeling sorry for him? Do you want to go and keep him company?"Gale blinked, staring at him in confusion. "What are you talking about...""Gale, you told me yourself that you love Aurum."Her heart skipped a beat. Oh no, she forgot about that. Shawn brought it up again."I remember. Do you feel like it's not right to be with me?" Shawn continued."No, not at all!" Gale denied hastily, moving closer to him and wrapping her arms around his, "Shawn, listen to me. Let me explain..."He remained cool, arms still folded. Gale forcefully inserted her hand into his arm, holding onto him firmly. "Husband!""It's pointless." Shawn remained unmoved. How could she think that coquettish behavior was enough? Gale pursed her lips. Shawn has higher standards now. Calling him 'husband' or kissing him did not seem to have the same effect as before. Did he forget how he used
"Now all I want is to grow old with you."Shawn remained motionless and refused to even look at her. Gale went to him and tightly clung onto his arm. "I've wanted to explain this to you, but, like the whole issue with Joshua's identity, I just couldn't find the right time..."If Natalie had not suddenly taken Joshua hostage, Joshua's identity might have been kept a secret for a while longer. It was Gale trying to hide it; she just did not know how! Every time she wanted to speak, she was interrupted. She finally mustered the courage to say it, and Shawn still did not believe her!"Hey, don't you remember, when Natalie said Joshua was your son, I nodded in agreement. You were the one who didn't believe me and thought it was a plot...""What could I do? Saving Joshua was the priority; I wanted to explain to you later.""Now, I want to tell you that the person I love has never been Aurum, and yet, you still don't believe me."Gale sighed deeply. "It's so difficult for me."Shawn co
Gale rolled her eyes. Shawn gently pinched her chin. "Hmm? Quiet now, are we?" She met his gaze. "I'm just thinking about how to describe my relationship with Sam. I don't want to deceive you. Give me a moment to organize my thoughts."As soon as Gale finished speaking, she felt Shawn's gaze soften. He seemed less jealous. Sincerity has always proved to be the most effective weapon!"Actually, Sam and I… I did have feelings for him.""Is that the answer you thought about and want to tell me?""Hear me out. We grew up together, and he took great care of me. He was gentle, considerate, tall, and handsome. Which girl wouldn't like such a guy?""Later, we got engaged, spurred by our families. We were childhood sweethearts. It was a precious thing.""At that time, both of us were young and didn't understand what love was. We had never truly loved anyone before. My feelings for Sam were, at most, puppy love.""Those feelings never got to mature and stand the test of time. As you alr
Shawn retorted, "Don't you want to hear me say those three words?""Nope.""Hmm?""Not now. I'll tell you later. Besides, I never forced you to say those three words before," Gale said. Shawn pursed his lips. "I'll wait until you say it.""Hey, Shawn!"He was always a man of his word; he would surely stand his ground. How could she weasel her way out of this?Gale could only say in a very soft voice, almost a whisper, "I love you."As soon as she said that, Shawn responded, "Gale, I love you too."At that moment, her heart raced incredibly fast. The feeling of having love reciprocated was so wonderful. Shawn insisted on making her say those words so she could feel that way.Gale smiled radiantly, and she looked up at him. Their eyes locked, and they could see each other being reflected in their gazes."How much longer do you guys need?" Joshua's voice interrupted. "If you have time, please help me play the next episode of my cartoon. I've tried to avoid interrupting the bot
He can actually hear so clearly even at a distance and even while watching cartoons.Shawn did not answer.Joshua spoke, "I never thought that Mom used to tell you she loved Uncle Aurum. Ah, if only I had known earlier.""What would you have done?"Naturally, he wanted to answer that he was going to tell Uncle Aurum and then play matchmaker between them."Cough, cough, cough!" Suddenly, Gale broke her silence and started coughing violently.She did not want to let Joshua answer.Seeing that she was about to persuade Shawn to drop the matter successfully, Gale could not afford to fail at this critical moment! Joshua got her message and held his tongue. "Nothing, I'll continue watching cartoons."It was funny how they thought Shawn would let it go."Afraid to speak? Joshua, you're not as fearless as I imagined." Shawn deliberately provoked himHowever, Joshua did not take the bait. He grinned and said, "Shawn, this trick won't work on me. She can say it's not true, but the poin
At that time, she had no idea that Shawn was willing to let her and Nicole go. Gale thought he was just comforting her, saying things to reassure her. Now, thinking back... she had misunderstood him."Do you believe me now?" Shawn asked. "Yes. You have been behaving. I started trusting you and letting my guard down.""Why didn't you clarify with me that you don't love Aurum?""I thought you already figured it out..."Shawn looked at her seriously. "Gale, I've never asked you outright to tell me you love me. But, when I ask, I need affirmation. I may need it over and over again. Only then will I truly believe and keep believing that you do."To everyone, Shawn has always been a confident, even arrogant person. Born into a wealthy family, he could easily obtain everything he wanted. He rarely cared about anything. However, everything changed completely after meeting Gale.He had been constantly seeking Gale's affirmation and testing her sincerity. Even after getting an answer, he
Shawn murmured her name twice before saying, "I realize now that love isn't about possession. It's..."He gulped before continuing, "It's not about how much effort I put in, but about knowing that you're always there. It's knowing that no matter when, you'll always choose to come back home. We'll sleep in the same bed forever and ever."That was true love. Love was not about control, tying one's hands and feet and watching their every move. Love was about mutual dependence with mutual freedom. It was about having each other in your hearts no matter where you are. Shawn had misunderstood what love was. Now, he finally saw the light.Gale leaned back, rested against him and gently said, "Yes, no matter how many people appear by my side, the only person I love is you. Likewise, you have all those admirers around you, but I am the only one you love."Love does not need constant control. To know that someone would always choose you is true love."Shawn, I'm a bit shy and don't express
Due to the severity of Joshua's injuries, he would have to stay in the hospital for at least another half month. Gale had to take care of her son, and Shawn would spend most of his time in the ward with her. Naturally, they would show public affection. The couple had to constantly consider Joshua, who quite frankly made it inconvenient for them to have some private time. Besides, Joshua had a sharp mouth.Gale pushed Shawn away, saying, "Enough, be mindful of the kid.""I think he's recovering fine. No need to worry. Tonight, you go home and get a good night's sleep." Shawn's eyes had a glint, and he almost looked predatory.She was stunned. Would she really get a good night's sleep after going home? She probably would be better off staying in the hospital."I..." Gale was about to reply when someone urgently knocked on the door. "Mr. and Mrs. Wood!""Yes!"The bodyguard outside shouted, "Pearton is awake!"Finally."I'll go check on him." Gale immediately rushed out.It was
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