Some had made fun of Joanne for trying to copy Ariana when she wore the same dress Ariana had worn.However, Joanne could see that Sienna was a talented designer based on her craft. Even though Sienna didn't like Joanne, it would be impolite for her to ignore her when she was being friendly. Sienna forced a smile. "There aren't any new items for now. I've been concentrating on preparing for the competition lately." "With your great skills, you'll definitely win the competition!" Sienna smiled dryly. "I hope so, too." Upon returning to her room, Joanne was so enraged that she threw a bottle of water onto the floor forcefully. In her eyes, Ariana had always been snobbish. She acted as though she was above everyone else. Yet, Joanne thought it was just pure luck that Ariana was bestowed with her good looks and privileged background. While Ariana had every reason to be conceited, Joanne was infuriated by how Sienna, whose family had gone bankrupt, treated her indifferently
Ariana shut her eyes. A mocking smile hung on her face. Spencer was a charming, charismatic man with an attractive appearance. Ariana didn't show much interest in dating during her younger years. However, she happened to observe the interactions between Spencer and his comrades while he was still in the military.It was at that time that Ariana unwittingly fell for him. She harbored these feelings for him for years. Yet, she had been wondering if he still deserved her admiration. "What are you thinking about?" Ariana could sense him leaning closer to her. Spencer naturally gave off a nice, clean scent. If she were to ignore her favorite things about him, Spencer was nothing but an unfaithful, promiscuous man who used her body as he pleased. Why would she like someone like him? Yet, whenever Spencer came closer, her pulse would quicken, and she would feel warm all over. Ariana lifted her hand and pushed against his firm chest. "Don't…" "No one can see us from
Ariana looked Spencer directly in the eye. "I said we should get a divorce." In an instant, Spencer's anger flared up. He felt as though he might explode into a ball of fire at any moment. His body reacted before his mind could process things. He grabbed Ariana's chin tightly. Ariana let out a gasp. Still, she didn't avert her gaze. "How dare you, Ariana!" Spencer's anger boiled over. His eyes bulged with rage. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" "Spencer, I don't want to live like this anymore." Tears welled in Ariana's eyes. "Please, I beg of you. Let's just put an end to our misery. Alright?" "Have you forgotten about the purpose of the union between our families? Are you going to act against your family's best interest just because you've found someone you like now?" Ariana didn't try to refute his assumption. "I can't allow myself to be trapped in this loveless marriage for the rest of my life." The lack of denial in her response infuriated him even more. "Who is it?"
Spencer was extremely busy for the next few days. Even though Ariana was staying in the same hotel as him, she didn't catch a glimpse of him at all during those days. Eventually, she learned from some hotel staff that Spencer had spent those days accompanying Joanne on her shopping trips. They even went out and watched various performances at night. Spencer didn't return to his suite during those nights. Ariana had no idea if he was staying in Joanne's room or if he had gotten a new room for himself. Meanwhile, Sienna was almost done finalizing her work for the competition. She had also made an appointment with the model she contacted previously. With everything pretty much settled, Ariana and Sienna decided to head out and take a break. The two of them came to a bar some distance away. They didn't play any loud music in the bar, so the place was more quiet and relaxed. The two of them got a table and ordered some drinks and snacks. Then, Sienna told Ariana that she
Sienna was worried it might be hard for Ariana to move around because of her injured ankle. Before leaving the bar, she notified a waiter to assist Ariana if she ever needed help. Not long after that, more and more people showed up at the bar. Ariana was in casual clothes, and she didn't put on any makeup. Still, it was impossible not to notice her attractive features. Moreover, she was a foreigner. Men went up to her, one after another, to hit on her. Before the performance even started, Ariana had already gotten worn out by those men. Eventually, she maneuvered her wheelchair and exited the bar to get some fresh air while waiting for Sienna.Yet, little did Ariana know that Spencer and Joanne were at that bar as well. However, they were inside a private room, along with some of Spencer's friends. His friends heard that Spencer was around and asked him out for a casual gathering. Most of Spencer's friends were staying in that country for work. Only one of them happe
Upon seeing Spencer, Connor hung up the phone and said, "Did someone say something to Jojo?"Spencer glanced into the distance and casually asked, "Why do you ask?""She just asked me if you have any close female friends."Spencer continued asking, "And what did you say?""Of course I said no," Connor responded. "I know what to say and what not to say."Spencer nodded. "Alright. I have something to take care of. Go back and keep her company.""Where are you going?"Spencer simply walked away briskly without turning back.Connor shook his head. "Where is he rushing to?"Remembering that Joanne was still inside, he didn't dwell on it and went back in.Meanwhile, Spencer roamed around the bar. He overheard many men discussing the mysterious foreign beauty.They described her as strikingly beautiful but hard to approach.Spencer quickened his pace and circled the bar but couldn't find Ariana.He wondered if they were talking about someone else.He paused for a few seconds and contemplated
At first, they didn't take Spencer seriously at all.Then, they got beaten up one after another.Seeing this, the remaining men immediately surrounded him, leaving behind the one pushing Ariana's wheelchair."You'd better mind your own business," the leader of the gang threatened. "Or else, you'll pay for it!""Let her go!" Spencer's eyes were cold, but a hint of worry flashed within them.The leader signaled to the man pushing the wheelchair, who immediately began to run off with Ariana.Of course, Spencer wouldn't let them escape. He tried to chase after them but was quickly interrupted by the others."Stop!" Ariana's voice trembled with fear. She was worried they would harm Spencer or, worse, pull out a gun.After all, she had often seen news reports of such incidents back home.As the man pushed her further away, Ariana made a desperate decision. Gritting her teeth and ignoring the pain in her injured leg, she threw herself out of the wheelchair. The person was shocked t
Ariana spoke up, "I'm waiting for Sisi."Spencer's face darkened with anger. "Where did she go? Did she leave you here alone?"Ariana knew Spencer was trying to vent his frustration at Sienna.But it wasn't Sienna's fault that this happened.Noticing her silence, Spencer turned the wheelchair around forcefully. "Let's go back!"To be honest, Ariana was still shaken up.Now that she was abroad, she didn't feel as secure as being in her own country.Not to mention that she just had a terrifying encounter.Her face was pale. Spencer noticed it but didn't say anything more.Ariana's fingers trembled as she sent a message to Sienna.Spencer continued pushing her wheelchair. Joanne initially kept a neutral expression. After a moment, she linked her arm with Spencer's and asked, "Are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere?"Spencer shook his head. "I'm fine. Don't worry."Connor was following them.Although he hadn't witnessed what happened, he could figure things out.Ariana's looks
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