Joe was roguishly handsome. The formal suit he wore did not conceal that roguish charm; instead, it accentuated it.His eyes were slightly upturned, and they seemed to hold endless affection. When he gazed at someone, it felt like he could draw their soul into his gaze."You don't want to win, so that's losing by default. Summer, it's your choice," Joe said.Her legs went weak, and she collapsed to the ground.Seeing this, Joe reached out to support her."What... what do you want?" Summer trembled as she asked."I want you."Summer was already dazed, and now it felt like a bolt from the blue had struck her head.Was Joe confessing?Was he?"For all these years, Summer, can't you see my feelings for you? Have you never felt anything? Or did you realize, but choose to ignore it?" Joe asked."The time you won the bet, we spent a month together like a couple. Weren't you happy? If we could live like that forever, wouldn't it be wonderful?""Summer, stop avoiding it and running
When did things between them start to change?Was it because they had slipped into a routine where they were together day after day?Was it when she acted as his girlfriend for a month?Or was it during that month when they were away and had to rely on each other?Honk, honk, honk! The cars behind began to honk, urging her to move.Summer snapped out of her daze, realizing that the red light had turned green. She quickly pressed on the gas pedal.Cars on the road bustled about.In a private room of a fine dining restaurant, Aurum sat in his seat, quietly awaiting Gale's arrival.The atmosphere was quiet and elegant, and the air smelled of perfume.There were footsteps approaching the door. Aurum eagerly looked toward the door. Gale walked in with a smile, carrying a cake and a beautifully wrapped bag."Happy birthday! Sorry for making you wait. I had to grab the cake, and traffic was a bit heavy, so I'm a few minutes late." She grinned. Aurum stood up and walked toward her,
Gale immediately understood. "Ah, two of us are just as well too," Gale immediately said to smooth things over. "I realize I've never celebrated with you. Having a quiet birthday is also a special memory!" "Yeah, this will be the most unforgettable birthday for me." Gale felt his words were laden with deeper meaning. However, she brushed off her own thoughts, thinking she was being too sensitive."Come on, make a wish, blow out the candles." Gale looked at the waiter and said, "Excuse me, can you bring out the cake for me?" "Of course, madam." The waiter was about to step forward when Aurum said, "No need, I'll handle it. You can go outside." "Yes, sir. I'll be right outside. Just ring if you need anything." Gale watched as the waiter walked out. She felt the waiter could have stayed. Otherwise, she felt being alone with Aurum was a little uncomfortable. She did not come here to retaliate against Shawn and go on a date with Aurum. She really came to celebrate Aurum's birth
She smiled. "Since we've cleared things up, there's no more tension between us. Aurum, happy birthday."She dipped her finger in a bit of cream and smeared it on his face."The birthday boy needs this. Keep it on, no wiping," Gale said.He nodded with a smile. "Alright."Gale lowered her head and took a bite of cake before sitting down.She was still a little uncomfortable being so close to him. She was only used to being close to Shawn, in a proximity where she could catch a whiff of his scent.Maybe she was overthinking it. Aurum was a gentleman and would definitely not do anything inappropriate.A little physical touch was normal; it was not like they were hugging or anything.Dishes started to be served. They all looked delicious.Gale had poor appetite; she was having her period, and her lower abdomen was throbbing in pain, but out of courtesy to Aurum, she tasted every dish."Is it not to your liking? Should I order more of what you like?" Aurum asked."No, no, this is
Perhaps that was the meaning of marriage. Aurum's smile grew brighter, but the chill in his heart became heavier."As long as you're happy. I'll be content just watching you from afar," he said."You should pay more attention to the people around you. If you meet someone suitable..." "Let's talk about it later. I am not in the mood for it right now." Aurum lowered his head.Gale softly murmured, "Okay." She understood that Natalie had just died, and her picking Shawn was quite a blow to Aurum. He was a responsible person, and although he did not love Natalie, there was still some affection after so many years together. However, Aurum ended up alone. He needed some time to slowly come out of it. Such things could not be rushed. "A little drink?" Aurum looked at the wine on the table. "It's vintage. I had it flown in from France." Before Gale could answer, he had already picked it up. The dark red liquid sloshed around in the transparent glass. It was fine wine. Even som
"Well, the wine only deserves you," Aurum remarked."You're flattering me now? If I had a bit more alcohol tolerance, I might just finish it," Gale joked.Aurum responded, "If you like it, I'll send you a few bottles.""No need, no need." Gale waved her hand. "We've got quite a lot of wine at home. Don't waste the good stuff."She picked up her knife and fork, diving back into the steak before her.The medium-rare filet mignon was succulent, flavorful, with just the right chewiness.Aurum stole a glance at her, then at the bottle of red wine, his lips curling into a subtle smile.Just waiting for time to slowly pass by!Meanwhile, outside the restaurant, a sports car halted at the entrance, Shawn stepped out. He tossed the keys to the valet, his expression devoid of emotion, his demeanor imposing.The restaurant manager greeted him upon sight, "Mr. Wood, are you here for dining or… "Shawn's face remained cold as he directly inquired, "Looking for someone. Which private room
Perhaps he was in a hurry; his rushed movements as he reached for the door caused his body to lean too far toward her.Gale instinctively shifted aside. She did not want to be so physically close to Aurum.In her attempt to move, her footing faltered. "Oops!" Gale exclaimed as her body began to topple to the ground."Watch out, Gale!"Seeing this, Aurum quickly reached out to catch her.Yet Gale did not want him to assist her.She would rather fall.The set of photos of Shawn and Ivy happened because Ivy accidentally slipped, and Shawn reached out to help, which led to those intimate shots.Having learned from that, Gale could not possibly allow history to repeat itself.So, Gale wanted to evade Aurum's touch.Just then, the door to the private room was suddenly pushed open from the outside. It nearly knocked Gale over. However, Gale took the opportunity to grab the door handle to steady herself. Thankfully, everything was fine. It was just a false alarm.Observing this, A
Shawn also looked at him. The two men locked eyes, confrontational.Gale kept her head down, not bothering to pay attention to what they were saying.She just wanted to go home and rest as soon as possible.Shawn's hand encircled her waist, feeling as steady and hot as a branding iron."Let's go, Gale.""Okay." She replied, glancing at Aurum, "I'm leaving first, bye.""Goodbye."Aurum stood at the door of the private room, watching Shawn and Gale leave.Only after their figures completely disappeared from sight did Aurum's expression slowly turn cold."Aurum, are you..." the manager asked."Get lost!"Aurum turned around and returned to the private room, slamming the door shut with a bang.The remaining birthday cake, steak, and a few other dishes on the table were barely touched.The more he looked, the angrier Aurum felt.Where did it go wrong?Why did his carefully planned rumor about Shawn and Ivy not work?Were Shawn and Gale still as loving as ever, without any es
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