Jacob spoke up immediately, "Just stop talking already."Spencer turned to look at him. "You don't believe me? I'm telling you. She doesn't want a divorce with me at all!"Jacob reminded Spencer, "She's already filed for a divorce with you! Wake up, Spence!"Spencer just scoffed coldly. "You have no idea just how much she likes me! Filing for a divorce is just a method for her to lure me into her trap!"Ariana had just sat down, yet she stood up once again. "Jacob, I don't think there's any reason for me to continue speaking with Mr. Ulrich any longer. I came here because I wanted to show my respect for you. I hope this incident will never happen again in the future."After that, she moved to leave.Jacob got up immediately to stop her from leaving. "Ariana, just ignore Spence. He's being stubborn and dishonest."Then, Jacob berated Spencer, "Shut up, you!"Jacob was older than Spencer. He was also an honest and righteous guy who spent his days serving in the military army. The
Ariana just chuckled coldly. "Yeah, I'm just lying to you. I don't want to get a divorce with you at all. I'm doing this just to lure you back in. Are you happy now, Mr. Ulrich?"She no longer bothered to stay in the room after that, so she turned to leave.Spencer rushed over to catch up to Ariana, only to feel Jacob grab his arm tightly."Let go of me!"Jacob's grip was firm and unyielding. "Calm down, Spence!""I am calm!""As if!" Jacob shoved Spencer back into the room before slamming the door shut. "You and Ariana are already divorced! Her schedule and itinerary have nothing to do with you from now on!"Spencer yanked his collar open in a fit of frustration. "It's just her tactic to lure me in! She must be doing this on purpose!""Seriously, Spence, nothing about Ariana's behavior screams 'I like you' at all.""That's because she's a good actress!" Spencer retorted angrily. "Do you know how good of an actress she is? It's been three years, yet I have no idea that… Had I
The next day, Ariana was summoned to Jensen's office."We have a problem," Jensen explained. "The government of that nation is undergoing a turbulent period right now. At the moment, we're only able to apply for a normal visa.""You mean the type that only extends our stay for three months?"Jensen nodded. "Yup! That's why I want to know if you want to head over there first or just wait here for the time being. But if you choose to go there now, you'll still have to return if we can't get the visa issue sorted out in three months."Ariana didn't want to wait. She wanted to leave right away.Upon noticing her look of hesitation, Jensen knew what she was worried about. He said, "I advise you to wait for the time being. You've been busy with work all these years, so it's pretty rare for you to leave the house and go sightseeing. "You might as well use this opportunity to travel around the country if you don't want to remain in Nordenton."Ariana nodded. "Alright."The number of p
"But Spencer's a vicious man!" Sienna refuted. "I can tell based on the way he acted last night! He'd definitely be able to force me into calling you over if Jacob hadn't arrived in time!""Don't take it upon yourself to shoulder such a burden when this incident happens again in the future," Ariana said. "Just call me, and I'll be there for you. What can he do to me anyway?"Boa chimed in, "Oh, he can do tons of things to you. Men are horny animals who rely on their primal instincts. What do you think he'll do to you?"Ariana was shocked, to say the least. "That… can't be, right? We're already divorced!""A divorce means nothing to him!" Boa said. "People like him are used to being authoritative and domineering because of their social standing. A divorce will definitely not be able to stop him.""I'll ask around, then." Ariana made up her mind. "I think I should leave the country as soon as possible."Boa added, "I'll ask my connections to help me out as well. See if I can help a
Spencer clutched his phone tightly. He tried his best to ignore the unfamiliar pang of raw terror that was starting to take over him.Ariana didn't shriek nor descend into hysterics. Her unusually calm demeanor gave Spencer a feeling that he was about to lose control of the situation.This wasn't his first time feeling this way. But this was his first time noticing the existence of that particular feeling with all his heart.He forced himself not to overthink it. All he said was, "If you want to leave the country, you'd better come to the clubhouse."Once Spencer was done speaking, he ended the call. He tossed his phone aside before pinching the spot between his brows.He once thought that he didn't want this marriage at all. If he were to get divorced, it'd be a huge relief and relaxation for him.But he never thought Ariana would escalate things to this extent when it was time for their divorce. As such, he was utterly humiliated in front of everyone.Until now, Spencer stubbo
Spencer just raised an eyebrow. "It depends on how she acts later."Connor was puzzled even after hearing the explanation. "Ariana will come here in person to apologize to you? Didn't you guys file for a divorce? Are you two not divorcing anymore?""Oh, Mr. Stone!" A rich scion was quick to cut in. "It seems you still don't understand what's going on. Mr. and Mrs. Ulrich were merely spicing up their marriage by arguing with each other!"Many people began egging on Spencer to take back Ariana after that. A hint of a smile was present on Spencer's expression. Connor forced out a small smile, though it was unable to conceal the jealousy and hatred in his eyes.A few minutes later, Ariana arrived at the private room. Everyone fell silent immediately.Ariana didn't expect that Spencer would invite so many people to the clubhouse. The number of people present was enough to crowd the whole room. A few of them were shareholders from his company, with the rest of the crowd being rich sci
Ariana didn't want to be in the same room as Spencer all by herself.Meanwhile, everyone else dared not utter a word upon noticing Spencer's dark look. They got up gingerly and began filing out of the private room.Many people secretly lamented the falling off between Ariana and Spencer. Honestly speaking, if they were Spencer, they would never bear to get a divorce with Ariana because of her stunning looks, sexy figure, and unique charm.This made them wonder just how gorgeous Spencer's first love was for him to be able to file for a divorce with a stunning woman like Ariana.Connor was the only one who didn't budge from his seat. He looked at Ariana before turning to look at Spencer."Spencer—"Spencer's expression remained dark. "Get out!"Connor's expression crashed as well. He moved his lips as though he wanted to say something, but in the end, he still got up and left.Although he and Spencer were close childhood friends who grew up together, the Stones' wealth and power
"Spencer Ulrich!" Ariana kept struggling wildly. "We're already divorced! Don't touch me!""Ariana, do you really think a divorce certificate can restrain me?" Spencer was quick to trap both of Ariana's arms with just one hand. "No one dares to interfere with me regardless of what I want to do to you.""Spencer, your actions make you no different than a mindless monster!""You called me a monster when we were still married. To think that you'd still call me the same thing after our divorce… It'll be a total shame if I don't stick to my reputation as a monster, don't you think?""Spencer Ulrich!" Ariana screeched.Spencer quickly covered her mouth. "Shut up for a while. Don't utter a word."He hadn't been able to sleep well over the past few days. Heck! He was drunk the last time they had sex. To him, the recent days had been ticking by agonizingly slowly.Spencer thought this was a normal occurrence. He was a man who happened to be at the peak of his youth. He finally had a tast
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