"No, it's still missing something.""What's missing?""Your expression." Shawn cradled her face. "Galey, when you act cute, I'm completely defenseless."Under his many years of teaching, Gale was no longer as shy as before. She would initiate kisses on the cheeks or lips. She would laugh and smile innocently, saying playful things that tugged at his heartstrings.The current Gale carried a sense of detachment, avoiding intimacy. He knew what she was thinking, what she was concerned about. After the incident at the motel, she had become burdened with worries, and she was cautious and no longer as openly passionate as before.Shawn loved to see and adore the Gale from before, but who knew how long it would take for her to return to her former self and become truly her again?Shawn knew it was not going to happen anytime soon. The damage was too great, the scars too deep, and they would not heal quickly. He could only help her repair little by little."I..." Gale, of course, unders
"Um..."Gale opened her mouth but found herself unable to give an accurate answer.Yes, how long would it take? A month? Three months? Six months or even longer? Could Shawn endure such a long time?"You see, Gale, you don't even know." Shawn sighed. "I don't have to rush you. I can give you time to slowly emerge from the shadow of the past. But you must understand, we are forever husband and wife, forever able to do the most intimate things without reservation.""I'm sorry..." She tried to apologize again, but her words felt weak as they reached her lips.Sorry was truly the most useless phrase in the world."Shawn, don't push me, don't..." Gale shook her head, still holding onto his neck. "I know you want me to move on quickly, but I can't do it. I also want to go back to how things were before, but can we really go back?"He answered firmly, "We can."She looked into his eyes.Her reflection was mirrored in Shawn's pupils."Thank you, Shawn. You've always been on my side,
That night's events seemed to cast a spell over her, something she could not shake off in this lifetime. Shawn's tone was slightly solemn. "I've said it before, there's something fishy about this. I believe nothing happened between you and Aurum. It's just that I don't have evidence right now. Give me some time, and I can uncover the truth.""What if the truth is that something did happen between me and Aurum?"Gale lifted her head, looking into his eyes.Shawn furrowed his brow. "Why do you always think in the worst possible direction?""I don't dare to hope for anything because..."The greater the hope, the greater the disappointment. Gale is always prepared for the worst. That way, even if the worst outcome happened, she could accept it calmly. Watching her like this, Shawn felt nothing but heartache. However, there was nothing he could do. As husband and wife, he felt utterly powerless.Gale noticed the tense atmosphere and changed the subject, "Was I the first person to come
When he went down, his two kids had already finished their breakfast and were dressed for school.As soon as they saw him, Joshua ran over. "Shawn! Do you remember what you promised me?"His face was full of anticipation.Shawn looked at him. "I remember.""That's good, that's good." Joshua breathed a sigh of relief. After all, we both had the same surname. You can't break your promise to me, right?"He had been dreaming about his star! For the sake of a star, he could even accept a name change. If anyone still called him Joshua Warm, he would definitely correct them loudly, "My name is Joshua Wood!"It absolutely could not be wrong, especially not in front of Shawn.Nicole interjected, "But Joshua, the reason you have to have dad's surname is because you lost to me in rock-paper-scissors."Joshua's face dropped. After hesitating for a moment, he coughed. "When boys talk, girls don't interrupt."Nicole was not afraid of him at all, immediately turning to Shawn. "Daddy, look, J
Joshua was speechless. He could not believe his father. He was stern with him but coddling Nicole. Shawn clearly favored girls over boys.Joshua remembered the promise of the star and decided to let it slide."Daddy, isn't Mommy having breakfast with us?" Nicole asked."She's still sleeping, we shouldn't disturb her.""Is Mommy pregnant?" Shawn was taken aback. "Why would you ask that?"He had asked the kids before if they wanted a little sibling, but they were not planning for it for now. If he and Gale were really planning for a third child, they would need to prepare first, he needed to quit smoking and drinking so they can get healthy for the baby. It could not just happen so casually.Nicole earnestly replied, "Because only pregnant women sleep so much.""Where did you hear that?" Shawn asked curiously."Our teacher said it, and it's also in the books. Every mommy is very tired during pregnancy, their belly gets big, it's inconvenient to walk, they get fat and ugly, can'
Normal couples would share a bed. Why would Shawn be on the floor?"You reminded me, it must be Shawn's fault! Why does he always make Mommy angry every now and then? Can't he behave properly?" Joshua said.In his eyes, Shawn was a disgrace to men.Nicole also racked her brains. "Joshua, but what can we do?""Let me think..."They racked their brains to come up with ideas to redeem Shawn. They subconsciously believed that Shawn was at fault and Gale bore no responsibility at all. After all, to them, Mommy was the best mommy in the world! They did not even bother considering Daddy's guilt or innocence. Mommy was always right. Everything worth blaming would fall on their daddy's shoulders. If Mommy was happy, the whole family was happy, and if Mommy were not happy, the whole family would be unhappy."I think Mommy doesn't lack anything. We are well-behaved and obedient, with excellent grades, never causing trouble. Daddy also gives Mommy many gifts... What should we do to make Momm
She could claim whichever star she liked.She could even name whichever star she wanted at her own whim and fancy. She was carefree that way.In contrast, Joshua felt that he had to have a star with a name he chose. He wanted to possess it. Their perspectives highlighted the different mentalities of men and women. Men were naturally born with a desire to possess. "Fine, fine, do whatever you want. Anyway, if you don't want to, just don't come and cause trouble." Joshua shrugged.Nicole asked, "How am I causing trouble?" "Cut it out, I don't know what you have got up your sleeve yet. I won't be fooled by your innocent appearance," Joshua replied.Although Joshua seemed the loudest and most mischievous, Nicole did not trail far behind. Nicole appeared meek and gentle because no one had offended her. However, if someone did, she would not hesitate to show them how formidable she could be. Nicole grinned, "Joshua, I'm just curious about one thing." "Go ahead," he replied cool
Gale's mental state was fragile, so Shawn wanted to be by her side to comfort her. Moreover, Shawn was also worried that Aurum might cause more trouble. He absolutely would not allow Aurum to meet Gale alone again, even if it was just to talk.A video call suddenly popped up. Shawn glanced at it and answered. "Shawn, what's up with you lately?" Joe's face occupied the entire computer screen. "You're always elusive, harder to find than a dragon. I've been wanting to see you, it's harder than going to heaven.""You try going to heaven.""Oh, snap, are you angry? So, who dared to provoke the great Mr. Shawn Wood? He must be facing a terrible fate!"Shawn remained expressionless. "If you have something to say, say it. If not, then get lost.""I do, of course I do. Don't hang up. You know about me and Summer, right?" Joe quickly reminded him."Not only do I know, I've witnessed it."Joe's face beamed with pride. "How about that? Isn't it great? Back when you were pursuing Gale, you
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