Shortly afterward, Ariana and Sienna arrived at the restaurant, one after the other.The two and Boa went ahead and ate first since they were not sure what time Jensen would get there. They were long-time friends who wouldn't get mad over something like this.Boa began, "Cheers to Ari's bright future!"Sienna added, "That's right! Staying away from a cheater is good for your health and gives you a brighter future!"Ariana beamed and raised her glass. "Thank you."The three of them laughed and chattered away. Suddenly, Sienna tugged Ariana's sleeve.Ariana asked curiously, "What's the matter?"Sienna replied, "Look behind you."Ariana glanced over her shoulder and spotted a familiar face.It had been quite some time since she last saw Joanne. The last time Ariana heard of her news was probably when Sienna shared about how Joanne was showing off the New Year's gift she got from Spencer on Instagram.Ariana was so busy preparing for her divorce and trip abroad that she completel
Sienna commented, "Boey, you look just like the cool and haughty CEO that's always mentioned in romance novels just now."Boa swept her curly locks to the back. "That shows I have the potential to become an actor!"Just you wait. One day, I'll become the hottest celebrity in the entertainment industry and rise to stardom!"Ariana smiled and watched the two of them joke around with an endearing look in her eyes. She didn't bother sparing Joanne, who stood at one side, another glance.Things had been rough for Joanne lately.She had received expensive gifts from Spencer around New Year's Day. However, he hadn't been contacting her ever since.Joanne also didn't receive any response for any of the messages she sent and calls she made to Spencer.When she tried to look for him, she found she no longer had access to the CEO's office, which she used to be able to enter freely.In the end, Joanne found a way to enter the underground parking lot to meet Spencer.However, Spencer had t
Spencer used to be very gentle and caring to Joanne. Ariana could still recall vividly the moment when he carried Joanne in his arms and rushed her to the hospital. However, Ariana snickered as she looked at the lady standing beside Spencer. She felt like she had found the answer.It wasn't like Spencer was always cold to the ladies. To be exact, he had found another replacement that bore a greater resemblance to his unrequited love.Thus, Joanne no longer held any value in his eyes.Ariana was glad she had escaped that bottomless swamp. If she were still in love with Spencer, she would feel so miserable now after seeing Spencer find a new replacement.Yet, she simply felt disgusted at the moment.Spencer thought his tactic had somehow worked when he noticed the disgruntled look on Ariana's face.He tore his gaze away from Ariana and looked down at Shanice. He then said in a gentle voice, "Didn't you say you like the food here? Should I just buy the entire restaurant?"Shanice
Spencer picked a seat next to Ariana's.Ariana subconsciously scooted her chair a few inches away. Still, they were seated next to each other.Spencer fixed Gerald with an icy gaze the moment the latter entered the restaurant.He originally planned to act as though he was close to Shanice and have Ariana see their interactions. Yet, Spencer was so preoccupied that he didn't even touch the food in front of him.The two tables were placed not too far away from each other. He could hear Gerald's voice coming from the next table from time to time."Eat this. It's nutritious… Have some soup. Careful. It's hot… Do you like this dish? I'll learn how to make it… Don't move. I'll wipe that for you."Spencer's plan was to make Ariana jealous. Yet, the plan failed spectacularly. Ariana didn't react much to him and Shanice. Instead, Spencer was boiling with fury.Not only was Spencer jealous, but he also felt as though he might explode at any moment.As for Gerald, he was never allowed the
Spencer would ask Ariana impatiently every time, "Are you still not done throwing tantrums?"This time, she was the one asking that question.Spencer didn't think he was being rude and unreasonable. He pointed at Ariana. "I'll give you one last chance…""Thanks, but no, thanks." Ariana smirked."Spencer Ulrich, you were in love with someone else during our marriage. You shared close relationships with other women, and you were always cold to me. I can't forgive any of those behaviors."Being able to divorce you is both refreshing and liberating. I can't even begin to tell you how happy I am now."Ariana dropped her gaze but soon lifted her head again. She had a cold and distant look in those orbs."Mr. Ulrich, we should each live a happy, separate life. Let's not see each other anymore."Then, she got up and walked away.After a brief pause, Gerald picked up Ariana's bag and coat before hurrying after her.An uncomfortable silence hung in the room. Everyone in the restaurant
After he had gotten off work, Jensen headed over to the specified location but couldn't find his friends there.He called Ariana, who paused for a few seconds. "Sorry. We completely forgot about you."Jensen said through clenched teeth, "You don't say! How did you even forget about a friend you were supposed to meet?"Ariana sent him a new address.It took Jensen a little over ten minutes to drive to the new location. It was only when he arrived at the place that Jensen realized Gerald was there, too.Jensen greeted everyone and took a seat. He asked, "What's going on? Do you not want to let me join your gatherings anymore?"Boa had compelling storytelling skills. Moreover, what happened earlier was truly amusing. Through her narration, the events became even more gripping and intense."I think that guy's seriously nuts," Jensen commented. "Stay as far away as you can the next time you see him. People with mental issues don't get prosecuted even if they've killed someone."Afte
Yet, if Spencer were to be honest with himself, the number of times he thought about the person gradually reduced after he married Ariana.Especially in the last six months, Spencer hadn't once found himself missing that person as he spent his days bickering with Ariana. He could even say that he had never suffered a sense of longing for that person ever since he started harboring feelings for them.Instead, since their separation, Ariana was all Spencer could think about, even though he hadn't seen her for just a few days.However, Spencer didn't think that this was him missing her. He was convinced it was Ariana's devious tricks that got him so hung up on her.What Jacob just said finally got Spencer questioning himself.Jacob was right. Why hadn't he thought about pursuing that person instead? He was divorced and single again. It was completely fine for him to start a new relationship.However…Spencer couldn't find any trace of joy or excitement in him after listening to Jac
Spencer refused instinctively. "No!""Why? Are you afraid of finding out that the person you like is actually Ariana?"Spencer's lips were compressed into a thin line. He clenched his jaw.Spencer didn't want to admit it, but even he could tell he was a bit worried about that happening. Still, he insisted that he was just a teeny tiny bit concerned.Even with pets, anyone would gradually develop feelings for them after keeping them around for three years. It would be even more so with humans.Therefore, Spencer concluded that it would be natural if he had developed some positive feelings toward Ariana. However, it couldn't possibly be the same as how he felt about Irene.Jacob prompted, "Am I right?"Spencer frowned. "It's pointless to do that. I know who I like, and it's enough that I know it.""Why won't you leave Ariana alone, then?""That's because I can't possibly let her off after what she's done!"Spencer ranted, "No one has ever treated me like that! I've never suffer
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