Connor returned to his room and tried to calm himself down. From the looks of it, Ariana had just returned to Nordenton, and there was no sign of any movement from Spencer, which meant he was likely the first to know about this.Besides, he noticed a man was with her from the surveillance footage. Though he had no idea what their relationship was, judging from the footage, they didn't seem intimate.Connor's mind raced.He knew Spencer had given up looking for Ariana a while ago, and he was certain she wouldn't notify Spencer about her return.Nordenton wasn't a big city, but it wasn't small either. There was a possibility that the two wouldn't meet.But what if, by chance, they did? Or perhaps someone ended up telling Spencer about her return?Although everyone assumed Spencer would've moved on and forgotten about Ariana, Connor knew that wasn't the case. After all, he could no longer read or understand Spencer.Moreover, he had a nagging feeling that Spencer had grown distan
Spencer was like a machine, performing the same tasks day after day. Work kept his mind off anything else. But once he stopped, all he could think of was Ariana. And with the memories of her came the pain.He'd heard that time was the best medicine for curing emotional wounds and that even the most incredible love could be forgotten with time. He didn't know how other people did it, but he was clear that Ariana had never left his heart.Finally, Spencer had news about her. When he heard about her return, his thoughts went blank. His initial reaction was to abandon everything and look for her.But after a few steps, he stopped in his tracks.Five years was enough for him to regret, suffer, and change himself.Five years ago, Spencer was cruel enough to imprison Ariana. But now, he was a changed man. He couldn't bring himself to hurt her. Just the mere thought of seeing her was enough to make him nervous and uneasy.Hence, he was torn.He would soon find out whether Connor's con
Spencer didn't expect to see Ariana so soon. He hadn't gotten much sleep the night before, and he headed straight to the hotel first thing in the morning. He initially waited in the lobby, but it seemed too obvious, so he went to the restaurant.Sure enough, Ariana came to the restaurant. However, the man beside her was really getting in the way.Before Spencer could prepare himself mentally, he locked gazes with Ariana.He wasn't sure if it was because of the familiarity, but a part of him dreaded seeing her. However, as she was now in front of him, he realized just how overwhelming it actually was.It had been five years since he last saw her, and now, there she was, alive and well before him.Spencer could almost hear his heart pounding in his chest as his eyes remained fixed on Ariana.She hadn't changed much in five years. If anything, she was even more beautiful. There was an elegance about her that made her even more alluring.Dennis noticed Spencer's intense gaze from
When Spencer touched Ariana, he felt a buzzing in his mind.Five years of suppressed emotions seemed to break free all at once. He pulled her into his arms with a slight force and hugged her tightly.Ariana didn't expect him to act this way in public. She staggered forward and found herself in his warm and solid chest.As he embraced her, Ariana's familiar pleasant fragrance filled his nose, and his mind became blank as she was the only thing he felt.Ever since she left, Spencer had endured endless pain. It was as though his heart had shattered and broken into pieces. But now, his heart felt whole again.He realized what bliss and joy felt like with her in his arms.Ariana remained astonished for a time. When she came back to her senses, she instantly began to struggle.The once comforting embrace now filled her with disgust. Spencer clutched her so tightly that no matter how much she fought, he wouldn't let go. She never imagined that he would still dare to do this in broad
Connor quickly came up with an excuse and explained, "I have a client staying here. Anyway, when did Ariana come back?"Seeing that he avoided the topic, Spencer glared at him but didn't say anything as he ran after Ariana.By the time he got outside, Ariana had already gotten into the car and vanished before him.Once inside the car, Ariana made up her mind and gave Dennis the address to Ulrich Estate. On the way, she even stopped to buy a gift for Enrique.She was no longer worried because Spencer had already seen her.He was able to imprison her five years ago because she was powerless. But if he tried to hurt her again now, she would be ready to fight back.…When Enrique saw Ariana, he was beyond thrilled.She spoke to him about her travels overseas over the last five years and her future goals.Her success proved that she had moved on from Spencer. While Enrique was happy for her, he felt sad for Spencer.He couldn't help but throw in a few good words for Spencer. "Ari,
Spencer had already strode over and stood before Ariana and Boa.Boa yelled at him before he could say anything, "Move away!"He knew she had a sharp tongue, so he didn't argue with her. Instead, he turned to Ariana and pleaded, "Ari, let's talk."Upon seeing that Ariana didn't escape on time, Boa stepped in. "Who are you calling Ari? Do you even know her enough to call her by that name?"Ariana grabbed her arms and urged, "Let's go."As they walked past him, Boa purposely bumped into him.Spencer turned around and yelled pitifully, "Ari, please allow me to say a few words to you."Only then did Ariana finally respond, "There's nothing to say. Mr. Ulrich, let us go our separate ways and live good lives."When they left the hotel, Boa flipped her hair dramatically and exclaimed, "That felt so nice! Did you see his expression earlier?"Ariana laughed at her words. "You're so mean.""He deserved it. By the way, I'm free this afternoon. Come with me and unwind a little."Ariana
Boa didn't even turn around and snorted. "It's definitely that bastard, Spencer."Ariana had the same suspicion.Dennis asked, "Should I lose him?""Ari, he didn't contact you before, did he?" Boa asked.Ariana shook her head."It's been five years. What does he want? He can easily find you now that you're back, especially since the two of you had a child together. You might as well talk to him and make things plain so he could give up," Boa advised.Ariana found her words logical.Once they arrived, Dennis went to park the car while Ariana went in first. Indeed, Spencer was behind her."Take a seat. Let's talk." She sat in the corner of the café.Spencer sat down opposite her, and his gaze lingered on her face."Mr. Ulrich, what are you doing? What do you want to talk to me about?" she asked.He began, "I want to apologize…""Hold on," Ariana cut him off. "You've apologized five years ago. I've heard enough of it. Is there anything else?""Ari, I know I made a lot of mist
"That old geezer?" Boa sneered. "If Connor isn't a good person, what makes you think Rowan is any better? I dumped him a long time ago."Ariana asked again, "So you haven't found anyone suitable in the last five years?"Boa didn't want to discuss the topic further and changed the subject. "The male models at fashion shows are very attractive, and the bartenders are attentive to me, making me settle down. Besides, I still haven't had enough fun yet. Let me show you some fun today!"To be honest, Ariana rarely visited places like these.She always assumed that bars were only open at night. But, despite it being just mid-afternoon, the place was packed with people. It wasn't too raucous either, and the ambiance was pleasant.Boa escorted her directly into a private room.At that moment, George walked by and saw a familiar figure. He thought he was seeing things. He took a picture with his phone and sent it to his group chat. "Look! Guess who this is!"He followed up with a couple
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