Spencer never had a good impression of Bernard.Fuming, Enrique said, "He cheated on your mother and has spent his whole life regretting it. Even now, your mother hasn't forgiven him. "I've told you from a young age that if you take one wrong step, there's no turning back. You must stay loyal. Now that you're married, you need to take responsibility and show some commitment. Do you understand?"Spencer replied, "Yes. I got it.""My foot!" Enrique was livid. "Don't think I can't see that you've been mistreating Ari! She's such a kind girl. Why can't you put in a little effort?""Grandpa, I know my mistakes," Spencer admitted. "That's why I'm asking for your help.""The most pressing matter right now is for you two to have a child," Enrique said. "Once you have a child, your relationship will naturally improve."Spencer remained silent.He had never intended to have a child with Ariana. But at least for now, he didn't want to divorce her, either.…When Ariana finally finished
Spencer fell silent for a few seconds before uttering, "Say that again? You want a divorce over such trivial matters?"To Spencer, everything he had done probably seemed insignificant. Buying gifts for Joanne, never defending Ariana in front of his friends, and even telling Connor she was just a tool to satisfy his desires meant nothing to him.But to Ariana, it felt like someone was repeatedly squeezing her heart and draining her blood drop by drop. Watching the blood from her heart slowly drip away, she felt utterly powerless. This kind of pain was something she would remember for the rest of her life. It was a pain no one else could ever truly understand.Ariana's expression was calm, almost cold. "Spencer, you may never understand how I feel. But after all, we were once married. Even if there's nothing binding us together, we could at least part on good terms.""I've told you. The decision to divorce is mine to make." Spencer's voice grew even colder. "I'll agree to the divor
Gerald didn't hesitate at all and said he wasn't afraid. After confirming a few more details, Ariana finally got in the shower. When she came out, she found Spencer standing in the bedroom. Enrique had scolded him earlier when he was downstairs. He had ordered Spencer to take Ariana out for dinner and make up with her, yet they returned without even having a meal. He thought Spencer was such a fool. Spencer was already fuming. He didn't dare to talk back to Enrique, so he stormed upstairs. Seeing all the unopened gifts lying around only fueled his anger.Ariana ignored his presence, grabbed her clothes, and headed for the door."Where are you going?" Spencer asked, trying to suppress his rage as he blocked her way."I'm sleeping in the guest room tonight," Ariana replied. "Tomorrow, I'll tell Grandpa that I'm moving out.""You wouldn't dare!" Spencer's face darkened. "If you say a word to Grandpa, I swear…"He suddenly reached out and grabbed Ariana by the throat. "Do you be
That night, Ariana slept in the guest room. Spencer eventually let her go, but not before kicking those unopened gifts across the room in front of her.Ariana was disheartened, and she didn't sleep at all.…The next morning, Spencer had already left the estate by the time Ariana got up. She had breakfast with Enrique and calmly shared her thoughts with him. Finally, she said, "Grandpa, I'm sorry. I've let you down. I can't keep this marriage going any longer. Spencer hasn't done anything wrong. If you want to blame someone, blame me."Enrique sat on the couch and fell silent for a long time. He reached out and gently touched Ariana's soft, long hair. He then said, "Ari, I've always thought of you as my own granddaughter. But I was selfish. I watched you stay unhappy, trying to hold this marriage together. Now, I won't stop you if you want to leave. It's my fault for not raising my grandson properly."Tears streamed down Ariana's face. "No, Grandpa. It's my fault. I wasn't
"Alright. I got it," Gerald quickly said. "I won't bring it up again, but Ari, I'll wait. I'll wait for you to give me a chance."That afternoon, the shareholders' meeting was in full attendance.Spencer was the last to arrive. Dressed in a black suit, he exuded a cold, dignified air that made him seem unapproachable. Even before the meeting began, those with sharp instincts could sense that something was off.The atmosphere in the conference room was heavy, and Spencer seemed especially cold. Even though he was usually stern and imposing, it was evident that he was in a bad mood that day. He seemed like he would explode at any time.Everyone was on edge, as if even breathing too loudly might draw his ire. Although they were all shareholders, the company's success and growth relied entirely on Spencer's decisions. His business acumen was unmatched. Under his leadership, the Ulriches' wealth had multiplied countless times.Given the substantial dividends they received, none of
Everyone in the room knew that a divorce could have significant repercussions on a publicly traded company's stock. However, what shocked them even more was the fact that someone wanted to divorce Spencer.Spencer had a reputation for being a bit cold, rarely smiled, and wasn't the type to dote on women or offer tender, considerate gestures. However, rumors had been circulating among the shareholders that Spencer had recently shown a peculiar interest in a new hire at the company's secretarial department. Not only had he been particularly attentive to her, but he had also showered her with various luxury gifts. Having an affair while being married was wrong.But for someone of Spencer's stature, having a few mistresses was common. Besides, none of the shareholders present could claim to be entirely virtuous. Most of them had affairs outside.Particularly in marriages born of business alliances, it was often an unspoken agreement for couples to do their own things. As long as the
The shareholders wanted to prevent Spencer from directing his anger onto them. Sure enough, after they spoke up, Spencer's expression became a little less grim.Suppressing his anger, he said, "Wait for me in the other room."But Ariana shook her head. "I'm definitely getting a divorce today. Spencer has been unfaithful to our marriage…""Ariana, I already told you. Men like to play around. We need to socialize for business, and sometimes, these things happen. It's quite normal.""No," Ariana said firmly. "That's infidelity. Don't dress up cheating as something so noble."The same shareholder spoke again, "Ariana, don't be so headstrong. The Lubove family's projects are heavily supported by our company. Divorcing over such a small matter is making a mountain out of a molehill. Stop being unreasonable and just go back."Spencer fixed his cold eyes on Ariana, but she just shook her head. "I don't care about the company's business. Whatever happens after the divorce will take its na
Spencer's expression and tone were relatively calm as he spoke. However, those who knew him understood the anger simmering in him.Ariana would definitely suffer in the future. Not only her, but even the Luboves and her friends might suffer the repercussions.In Nordenton, Spencer was a figure at the top of the pyramid. The Ulrich family's enterprises spanned the nation and expanded overseas. Spencer could easily shake the economy in Nordenton.They didn't understand why Ariana would want to provoke someone of such stature.Spencer's gaze bore into Ariana. If looks could kill, she would've been dead by now.His stare was terrifying, but Ariana acted as if she didn't notice. She even boldly placed the divorce papers in front of him and said coldly, "Sign it!"Spencer didn't move. "My lawyer will be in touch with you.""Fine." Ariana nodded. "But remember. I hope you keep your word in front of all these people today. You can't go back on your word now. I expect your lawyer to cont
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