"Ariana!" Connor's voice trembled with disbelief. He pressed hard on his wrist, but the blood kept gushing out. "That's an artery," Ariana said, trying to stay calm. "Without medical treatment, you'll die from loss of blood very quickly." "How did you..." Connor trailed off when he noticed her blood-covered palm. Indeed, he had drugged the water he gave Ariana. All of Ariana's caution had been for nothing. His plan was to force himself on Ariana when both of them became unconscious. Even if Spencer woke up later and confronted him, he had prepared plenty of excuses. But he never expected that just as he was about to make his move, the unconscious Ariana would suddenly slash him! She had cut right into the artery on his wrist. Connor had wanted Ariana for years. But now, with his life in danger… He gritted his teeth as his eyes bulged with rage. All his years of planning were for nothing. And after this, getting close to Ariana again would be nearly impossible! "Dr. Lubo
"I won't." Ariana had not expected him to still be hung up on this issue. "I'm glad you're okay. I'm hanging up." "Someone's trying to kill me." Ariana's chest tightened. "What did you say?" When Spencer woke up last night, he knew something was off. His physical condition had always been good. Besides, Connor would not dare to really harm him, so the drug wore off quickly. Spencer's first thought upon waking was to find Ariana. But he found himself in a strange room with no one else around. Worried about Ariana's safety, he went out to look for her. He then realized that he was being watched. He did not dare go to Ariana's room, as he was afraid that those people might do something to her. He had no choice but to lead them away. He met up with his bodyguards later. Without time to ask questions, the three of them spent an extremely dangerous night on the run. They could not act rashly because those people had weapons. But in the end, they made it through safely. After
Ariana became worried. Seeing that Enrique was swaying slightly, she quickly reached out to steady him. "Grandpa!" Enrique threw his phone away. "What a terrible son!" His eyes were red with anger as his chest heaved up and down. Ariana helped him sit down and gave him some water to drink. Closing his eyes, he took a moment to calm down. Ariana then asked, "Grandpa, is it about Spencer..." Enrique shook his head, making Ariana sigh in relief. He then said, "Ari, this matter... I'll tell you about it later. For now, I need to go abroad." Ariana was surprised. "You're going abroad? But your health..." Enrique was quite healthy. But a long flight might be too much for him. He said, "There's something I need to handle." "I'll go with you," Ariana said. "I'd be worried if someone else goes with you instead." She was a doctor, so she could at least handle any health issues Enrique might have. Enrique sighed. "I didn't want you to know, but I can't hide it from you anyway. A
Ariana frowned. "What's going on? What does this have to do with Gerald?" "Gerald... is my half brother." "What?" Ariana was awestruck. Spencer said, "You know my parents' relationship isn't good right now." Ariana did know about this. Spencer's parents were both researchers, who spent a long period of time at research bases. They could even be called research fanatics. They had a good relationship at the start, and they shared common interests. It was until Spencer's father, Bernard, had an affair with his assistant. They lived separately after that. She heard that they hardly contacted each other all these years. They were both busy with their own affairs and did not bother with their family. So, Spencer was raised by Enrique alone. Gerald was the child of that assistant from back then. When it happened, Enrique was furious and sent her abroad right away. He never let Bernard and her contact each other again after that. Nobody knew she was pregnant at the time. And Gera
"So, to be precise, you're his sister-in-law." Spencer savored her scent. "Yet, he claims to like you and even pursues you. His intentions are crystal clear." Ariana was still reeling from the shock after finding out that Gerald was actually Spencer's half brother. Spencer held her slender waist and nuzzled her neck. "His approach to you is calculated, even premeditated. Ari, don't let him fool you."Ariana shook her head. "I've never had any feelings for him." Spencer felt quite pleased hearing this. They were in an extremely dangerous situation that day. Those men truly intended to kill him. He made arrangements and sent his men to retaliate. And with the help of local resources, he managed to trace this attack back to Gerald.At first, he thought Gerald wanted him dead because he liked Ariana. He naturally would not show any mercy for such a rival. If Gerald could hire people to take his life without hesitation overseas, so could Spencer. However, he never expected Geral
Thinking about Ariana's earlier question, Spencer added, "I don't care how many descendants the Ulrich family has. We should earn everything with our own abilities. "If Gerald wants a piece of the Ulrich empire, fine. I'll have nothing to say if he has the skill to take it from me." Ariana finally understood. Spencer was not just being forgiving. Rather, he was just super confident of his absolute control over the empire he had built. Not just one Gerald, even if ten or eight Geralds came along, he would not be afraid. However, Gerald immediately targeted Ariana by sending flowers and confessing his feelings to her. What could be his true intention?The mere thought of it made Spencer want to kill him. He was not afraid of challenges to his business or assets. If Gerald was capable of doing so, Spencer would not mind handing them over. However, Ariana was off-limits! Forget about sending flowers and confessions. Spencer would gouge his eyes out even if Gerald was just lookin
Ariana shook her head. "I'm not just saying it because I'm angry..." "But you are, though," Spencer said. "I'll talk to Connor. If his attitude toward you doesn't improve, I certainly won't allow it." Ariana found it so ironic that she laughed. Spencer continued, "In any case, no one will disrespect you in the future. Besides, they wouldn't dare to do that, given our current relationship." "Does that mean their previous behavior toward me was actually on your orders?" It was not. However, it was true that Spencer's attitude toward Ariana had encouraged their arrogance. He could only apologize, "I said it wouldn't happen again. If you're not satisfied, I'll have them apologize to you in person when we go back home." "Will you apologize to Jensen, then?" Spencer was taken aback. Ariana continued, "After you married me, did you ever show Jensen a kind face whenever you met him?" Spencer retorted, "Did he ever show me a kind face, then?" "Let's not discuss this anymor
No wonder Ariana did not believe Spencer. He was silent for a few seconds before saying, "I understand." He had even thought about using their physical relationship to tie Ariana to him. Looking back now, it seemed quite ridiculous. Seeing him backing away, Ariana finally relaxed. "I'll continue to stay here, and I hope you won't interfere."It would be best if Spencer could face reality. Spencer said, "Then, what about your safety?" Ariana replied, "You weren't here for over three months, and I didn't encounter any danger." "Alright." "You should go," Ariana said. "You should also figure out how to handle Gerald's situation." "I'll go down and check things out, then." When Spencer went downstairs, Gerald was still arguing with Enrique. However, the root of this issue was Bernard's mistake.When Enrique cursed his wayward son on the phone, he meant Bernard. Bernard's affair and Enrique's arrangement for Gerald's mother to go abroad were the causes of this matter. In
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