Ariana said, "Spencer, do you even remember what I gave you last year?"Spencer was stunned.Seeing his silence, Ariana smiled. "You just said you cherish everything others give you, yet you can't even remember what I gave you last year.""Don't make excuses!" Spencer snapped. "That's not a valid reason for forgetting my birthday.""You receive so many gifts every year. Surely, one more doesn't matter," Ariana said. "I'm not as considerate as someone who personally knitted a scarf for you. I see you're liking it very much."Spencer reacted quickly this time. "Are you upset because I received Joanne's scarf? It's just a scarf. Why make such a fuss? Don't you think you're overreacting?"Ariana thought it was wise to control her emotions in time. After all, even if Spencer had feelings for her, he wouldn't stay loyal to her. Accepting gifts from other women and being indifferent about it showed how little he cared.She would be infuriated if she had to spend the rest of her life wi
Ariana struggled. "What are you doing?""You're my wife," Spencer said. "It's only right that you accompany me on my birthday.""You never allowed me to come with you!""You haven't prepared a gift for me this year!"Before Ariana could say anything else, Spencer added, "Just change into some clothes and come with me. Or do you want Grandpa to hear us arguing?"Ten minutes later, both of them were dressed and in the car.Throughout the drive, Ariana ignored Spencer. She didn't even glance his way.Spencer was also fuming, his face dark.Ariana couldn't figure out why he had brought her along, especially when Joanne was also there. In the past, she'd put up with Connor's unpleasant remarks at these gatherings. She wondered if Spencer was trying to make her look bad.If so, Spencer's plan was about to backfire.She decided she wouldn't just endure their criticisms this time. She was ready to stand up for herself. She would make them pay for what they did to her last time.With
The rose petals fell all over Spencer and Ariana.Joanne's face darkened when she recognized the couple. "Why are you here?"Ariana was here to settle her past grievances with Connor. After all, he had made her suffer a lot. Hence, she had no intention of being polite to Joanne.She said, "That's strange. Even outsiders like you are allowed to attend Spencer's birthday party. Why am I not allowed as his legally married wife?"Joanne's face turned a shade darker as she heard Ariana's words.Her eyes reddened, and she looked at Spencer. "Spence, you know that's not what I meant."Before Spencer could respond, Ariana cut her off, "Then, why are you still blocking the door? Don't you want me to come in?"Spencer said, "Let's go in first."Looking upset and hurt, Joanne stepped aside, allowing Ariana to enter while linking arms with Spencer.Connor was also surprised by Ariana's arrival, especially since they appeared quite affectionate. They came hand in hand.He frowned and said
Before she could finish her words, Joanne burst into tears. "Ari, it's all my fault. Please don't blame Spence. But I can't control my feelings. Just take everything out on me. I'm ready to take whatever comes my way."Spencer frowned and said, "I didn't bring you here to cause trouble. I told you to shut up."Connor chimed in from the side, "Exactly! You're sharp-tongued as always. Ariana, you're so bitter!"Ariana stared at Joanne. "Love doesn't have a first-come, first-served rule, but people should have morals and shame. If people can't control their feelings and desires, what's the difference between them and animals?"After saying that, she turned to Spencer. "You shouldn't have dragged me along if you want me to keep quiet. You think you can control everything, including me?"She then rested her chin on her hand and looked at Connor. "I heard your cousin is getting a divorce?"Connor was stunned, and a hint of satisfaction rose within him. "How did you know? It seems you'r
Ariana smiled and said, "If that's all, then I'll be going. After all, we're not on the same path. Different paths don't cross. So, enjoy yourselves.""Stop right there!" Spencer's face was ashen. "Who said you could leave?"Ariana raised an eyebrow. "What? Haven't you heard enough from me?"Joanne spoke up, "Ari, it's Spence's birthday. Don't make him upset. He already has a tough time at work.""You're absolutely right," Ariana said. "He has to deal with his wife at home and his flings outside. With such a busy schedule, it must be tough for him. Ms. Yates, you don't need to prepare coffee for him like usual. Maybe some supplements would do."Spencer grabbed her wrist. "Come with me!"Ignoring the reactions of those behind him, Spencer dragged Ariana out.Joanne also had a stern look. She remained silent.Connor glanced at her and said, "I'll check on them."Outside the door, Ariana shook off Spencer's grip.Spencer roared, "What are you trying to do? They're my friends. Yo
Spencer and Ariana left together, but Ariana was the only one who returned.She didn't go back to Ulrich Estate but went to Sienna's place instead.Seeing Ariana looking dejected, Sienna handed her a bottle of fruit wine. "Have some. It'll warm you up.""I have a surgery scheduled for tomorrow," Ariana said. "I can't drink."Sienna, who didn't drink herself, put the bottle away. "What exactly is Spencer thinking? Perhaps he doesn't want a divorce.""That's not likely," Ariana replied with a bitter smile. "A divorce might cause stock market fluctuations and discontent among shareholders.""So that's it?" Sienna asked. "So, you're not getting a divorce?""I will," Ariana said. "I'm guessing we have to wait until she comes back."Sienna knew who Ariana was referring to. She asked, "When she returns, won't Spencer be worried about stock market fluctuations and shareholder discontent?"Ariana replied, "Compared to her, those are nothing. Even if it means going against the whole wor
Even Connor was staring at Ariana.It was the first time Spencer had paid attention to Connor's gaze toward Ariana. He seemed to look at her with a mix of disdain and something else, but Spencer couldn't quite get it.Spencer didn't dwell on it. However, he clearly noticed the admiration in the other men's eyes.This was the most frustrating birthday he had ever experienced. Previously, his friends would have already started celebrating with him after midnight. Tonight, though, he was alone.The fact that Ariana had completely forgotten his birthday and hadn't prepared a gift for him only added to his frustration.Not knowing how much time had passed, Spencer called Ronan, "Where did Mrs. Ulrich go?"Ronan replied honestly, "She went to Ms. Jones' place."Spencer hung up the phone, and his expression turned a shade darker.Thinking of Sienna reminded him of Jensen. Ariana's relationship with them was enviably close.…Spencer spent the whole night awake, deep in thoughts.Th
Spencer said, "Then, they can leave. The Ulriches don't welcome guests like them."Boa glanced at Ariana and said, "Ari, you've been married to a man like this for three years? How did you put up with it? I warned you to think carefully before getting married. Forget it. Just get a divorce!"Boa was known for her straightforwardness and fearless nature. Spencer didn't dislike Sienna, but he had a strong aversion to Boa because she often schemed alongside Ariana. Seeing her easily mention divorce like that only fueled Spencer's displeasure.Ariana said helplessly, "Boa, Jen, you both can go home first. We'll talk tomorrow."Jensen added, "Let's go."Boa shot Spencer a provocative look before getting into the car. After they left, Spencer coldly said, "Why do you even have friends like them?"Ariana replied, "You should take a look at your friends first.""Nobody would encourage their friends to divorce. Asking someone to divorce warrants retribution!"Ariana looked at him with
Ariana lowered her gaze, her lashes hiding the emotions in her eyes. Spencer could not see them, but he imagined her expression remained as distant as ever."I just want to know if we could still be friends," he continued softly.Ariana paused for several seconds before shaking her head. Spencer's voice was strained with pain as he spoke, "I know it's an inappropriate request, but if we don't try this approach, I might not be able to stop pursuing you." "So you're saying if I don't agree to be friends, you'll keep bothering me?" Ariana finally looked at him directly. "Are you threatening me?"His words reminded her of Zane, who had used the same tactic. She wondered if all men thought this way—when pursuit failed, they would settle for friendship as a consolation prize.Spencer met her gaze. "That's not it. Ari… I'm just asking for your mercy."His eyes were bloodshot with dark circles underneath, clearly showing signs of sleepless nights. Ariana looked away, unable to bear
Jacob rubbed his temples in frustration. "I've warned you about this. She has a boyfriend now, and they have a kid. If you get involved, what does that make you? The other man?""I know…" Spencer mumbled. "But I love her and can't control these feelings." "Having control is what makes us human," Jacob said firmly. "Losing control makes us no better than animals. You're better than that.""Maybe being an animal would hurt less," Spencer muttered."If that's your attitude, then there's nothing left to discuss." Jacob was getting exasperated with him. "That man isn't right for her!" Spencer burst out, recounting everything that had happened.Jacob shook his head. "They have a child together. What's the point of saying all this now?""He's manipulative and deceitful!" Spencer's voice rose with frustration. "How can Ari be with someone like that? Even if I didn't love her, I couldn't stand by and watch her be with someone so toxic!"Jacob took a deep breath and offered another per
"Still, he shouldn't have hit anyone!" Ariana sighed as she looked at his face, now swollen and red. "Does it hurt?"Sam's eyes welled up with tears. "Yeah, it hurts like hell..."Spencer stood nearby, his fists clenched tight. For some reason, Sam just made his blood boil, and he wanted nothing more than to punch him again."Mr. Ulrich," Ariana said while supporting Sam. "Let me say this one last time—stay out of my life. Since Sam's willing to let this go, I won't press charges, but if there's a next time, I will call the police."After her warning, Ariana helped Sam inside their house. They both froze in their tracks when they saw Leo standing in the doorway—neither knew how long he had been awake or how much he had heard."Leo," Ariana quickly spoke up. "Go back inside.""Mom, you two go ahead. I'll close the door," Leo responded quietly.Ariana had no choice but to help Sam inside while Leo walked to the doorway and looked up at Spencer. The little boy barely reached Spence
After that, Sam told Ariana softly, "Go check on Leo. I'll handle this."Wanting no part in this confrontation, Ariana went back inside. Sam closed the door and cracked his knuckles. "Why are you always bothering Ari? She's my girlfriend now, and you should stop.""You're not right for her," Spencer replied coldly."Are you?" Sam raised an eyebrow. "I'm younger, more devoted, and I'd never hurt her or flirt with another woman. What makes you think you're better?""This is between Ari and me. It doesn't concern you.""It doesn't concern me? Or you just can't think of a response? Did I hit a nerve? I guess getting older really does make people shameless.""Don't get cocky. You're not Ari's type at all."Sam leaned in closer, lowering his voice. "That's where you're wrong. Ari loves everything about me, especially my young body..."Before he could finish, Spencer threw down the food container and swung at him. Sam, anticipating the move, dodged quickly. Before long, the two me
Boa quickly called Ariana back and reported, "It's not Zane.""Then, it must have been Spencer," Ariana concluded."That obsessive jerk!" Boa exclaimed. "He just won't give up!"Ariana asked, "Boey, since Rowan and Zane are close, could you tell Rowan to let Zane know that nothing will ever happen between us?"Boa sighed. "I already told him, but I'll emphasize it to him again. By the way, when are you heading to Orkney? I want to pick up Leo!""Tomorrow afternoon," Ariana replied. "But don't worry about picking him up—he's coming with me."When Ariana hung up, she found Leo watching her expectantly. He jumped into her arms as soon as she put down her phone. "Mom, are you done? Can you play with me now?"Ariana's heart melted. "Of course, baby. What would you like to play?""Let's play house!" Leo's eyes sparkled. "You be the mommy, and I'll be the baby, and you have to carry me!""Alright." Ariana laughed, scooping him up."No, not like that," Leo directed. "Carry me like
Dennis could not help glancing in the rearview mirror at that comment. Meanwhile, Ariana looked at Sam and blurted out, "Marriage? Did you forget what we agreed on?""I remember," Sam replied. "But with your ex-husband and that Zane guy, we've got our work cut out. I'm worried they'll figure things out. Maybe we should turn this act into reality."Ariana shook her head firmly. "I'm sorry, but I can't do that. You're already doing me a huge favor by helping. Marriage is sacred, and when you find someone you truly love—" "But Ari, you're the one I love! I want to marry you!" Sam interrupted."Sam, you're still young..." Ariana smiled gently.Sam protested, "I'm not that young! You always use that excuse, but you're only five years older than me!"Before Ariana could respond, Dennis chimed in from the front seat, "There's an old saying—you can't force love. Sam, if you really care for her, win her heart properly and make her say yes to you. This isn't the way." "You sound like
Ariana smiled politely. "That really won't be necessary. Don't put yourself through that, Mr. Marshall. You're quite the catch, and I'm certainly not worthy. If you'll excuse me, they're waiting for me."With that, Ariana turned and headed downstairs, where Sam was leaning casually against the car, waiting for her. Even though he and Dennis knew each other, they did not get along well, so Sam stepped out of the car to wait.Being a handsome foreigner with striking features and bright blue eyes, Sam naturally drew admiring glances from passersby. He was used to the attention, but suddenly, his gaze fixed on someone watching him with unmistakable hostility.He quickly realized it was the same guy from the airport yesterday, who had tried to block their path but was completely ignored by Ariana. Sam met Spencer's gaze with calm confidence and the natural arrogance of someone who knew they had won. As far as he was concerned, Spencer was the defeated rival—someone who did not stand a
"That jerk..." Boa muttered under her breath before turning to Leo with a bright smile. "Leo, I'm going to treat you to something yummy!""Thank you, Aunt Boa," Leo replied with a blank face."Come on. Give me a smile," Boa cooed, pinching his cheek. "Oh, my goodness! You're just too cute!"Leo responded by burying his face in Ariana's shoulder. Jensen rushed to join them after finishing his surgery, making it a lively meal with five adults and one child. Leo only showed his bright smile when interacting with Ariana, maintaining his composed expression with everyone else.However, his stoic demeanor only encouraged Boa to tease him more, filling the dinner with laughter and joy. After that, Rowan arrived to pick up Boa, accompanied by Zane. By then, Leo was fighting to stay awake after his long flight and emotional reunion.He managed to open his eyes briefly to look at the two tall men before drifting off on Ariana's shoulder. Though the glimpse was quick, it was enough for
"Me, too!" Sienna exclaimed, and Ariana could not help but laugh at her precious son's perfect little face, now adorned with two lipstick marks.Even though Leo felt that he was too grown up to be carried, he had not seen Ariana in so long that he did not want to leave her arms. Just this once, he decided to indulge himself and enjoy the comfort of her embrace.As the group walked toward the exit, sharing laughs, Ariana suddenly stopped in her tracks. The others paused, confused."What's wrong? Why did you stop…" Boa's voice trailed off as she spotted the man standing ahead of them.It was Spencer, his eyes fixed intently on the child in Ariana's arms. Now, Boa understood why Ariana had been so confident that Spencer would not question Leo's parentage. With those bright blue eyes matching Sam's, there was no way Spencer would suspect Leo was his.Boa thought it was a brilliant plan, and she looked at Spencer smugly. On the other hand, Leo glanced at Spencer before resting obed