Like Spencer, Connor had a strong dislike for Jensen."Is the hospital yours? Do you have any say here?" Connor retorted, only to realize that the hospital was indeed owned by the Riveras.He had been in such a haste to rebuke that he forgot all about it.Sure enough, Jensen replied, "Yes, it is. So what are you doing here?"Connor ended up failing to create some alone time with Ariana, all thanks to Jensen's appearance. He left in a huff once again.Ariana and Jensen had their discussion on surgical cases while having their dinner at a nearby restaurant.Jensen asked after they reviewed a patient's condition, "Why did Connor come looking for you? I saw him last time when you were in surgery.""Who knows? It's not going to be anything serious anyway," Ariana replied."I can't stand his smug face, and the same goes for Spencer! If we were in ancient times, they'd be working their asses off trying to repay your kindness!" Jensen fumed."Stop it. How long ago was that?" Ariana fr
Joanne immediately understood.The man must have feelings for Ariana.She thought about it and asked, "How will you help me?"The man replied, "There's a charity gala tomorrow. Get Spencer to bring you there."…Meanwhile, Sienna was talking to Ariana about the same event. "Mrs. Smith gave me two tickets. I shouldn't waste them. Come with me since your ankle's healed."Ariana agreed since she had no surgeries scheduled for the next day.Sienna needed to attend such events. Ariana didn't feel at ease letting her go alone either.Sienna's mind shifted to their outfits once Ariana agreed. Formal attire was a must for such events.Ariana decided to go along with her plans. Parading Sienna's designs could also be a form of promotion.Ariana would never expect Spencer to be attending the charity gala as well.The gala had commenced when Ariana and Sienna arrived. But some of the distinguished guests had yet to show up.The Lubove family was among the top families in Nordenton, ev
Spencer wore a cold look. The tailored suit with a handmade cashmere coat set off his charm and exuded his handsomeness.An attendant was helping him remove his coat. He lowered his head and smiled at the woman beside him.His icy presence melted with that warm smile. All colors seemed to pale in comparison to its might.Ariana thought she had sorted out her emotions after more than half a month apart.Her heart still ached at seeing Spencer smile at another woman. Her thoughts were driven into turmoil.Ariana chastised herself for being so weak. Just as she was about to look away, Spencer looked in her direction.Their eyes met.Ariana's eyes were cold, while Spencer's were deep and intense.They held their gaze for several seconds before Ariana watched as Spencer walked toward her.Joanne had never expected to run into Ariana at the gala. She lowered her gaze, yet failed to hide the jealousy in her eyes at the sight of Ariana's dress.Spencer's eyes saw no one else. They we
Spencer felt even more restless seeing Ariana in that evening gown.It had been almost three weeks since they had been together, after all.But then again, he didn't expect a look at Ariana to stir up such impulses, even if he was in his prime years. It was to the point where he forgot all about Joanne, who had come with him.Spencer still couldn't bring himself to let go of Ariana's wrist. He turned and hurriedly told Joanne, "Stay here, and wait for me."With that, he pulled Ariana away.The host of the gala was on good terms with Spencer. They had prior experience hosting such events, so there was a room ready upstairs. Spencer knew the way.Many spectators saw them as he led Ariana upstairs.The upper class was aware that the marriage alliance between the Ulrich and Lubove families was kept low profile. There was not even a wedding hosted.They had assumed that Ariana's place as the lady of the Ulrich family was threatened when they saw Spencer repeatedly appear in public w
Spencer completely disregarded her feelings. That was pure humiliation for Ariana.Yet her body betrayed her and craved for him uncontrollably.Spencer reached out with his fingers. His warm breath blew against her ear. "It's wet…"Before he could finish, Ariana bit his Adam's apple hard.He yelped in pain and made his move.While Ariana moaned softly, Spencer kissed her lips and plunged his way in.It was only then that Ariana realized what was happening. She began resisting with punches and kicks.Though Spencer could easily subdue her, he wouldn't harm her.Her struggles made it impossible for him to continue."Ariana! Stay still!" He growled."Spencer! To call you a beast is not an insult! Is this all you think about every day?" Ariana glared and seethed."I'm a man. I have needs!" Spencer returned the glower."Don't you know the difference between humans and animals? You're worse than a beast to act like this anytime and anywhere!"He gritted his teeth and whispered i
Ariana recalled and agreed that Spencer could bring her the utmost pleasure during their intimate moments.Yet, he always seemed to never stop, exhausting her completely.That was why Ariana's feelings toward him were always a mix of love and hate."You shut up!" She shoved him away.Spencer felt even more convinced he was right when he saw her anger and embarrassment.As they were grappling, a knock came at the door.It was Sienna calling from outside. "Ari? Ari, are you okay?"Ariana answered, "I'm fine."She was about to leave when Spencer pulled her back again."What are you doing!"Spencer draped his coat over her shoulders. "Either you go home now, or you wear my clothes."Ariana glared at him, gritting her teeth. She then clutched his coat around her and left.Spencer followed her out in long strides.Sienna was finally relieved upon seeing Ariana come out.An attendant happened to pass by. Ariana took a glass of juice and handed another to Sienna.The attendant n
Joanne was actually sober. She followed the instructions of the mysterious man on the phone and timed her complaint about feeling unwell perfectly.By then, Spencer had consumed the spiked drink.The effects kicked in rapidly as soon as they entered the room. His eyes turned red. His gaze was unfocused, as if he couldn't recognize anyone.Joanne hadn't expected the drug to work so quickly. She lay on the bed, feigning discomfort when Spencer pounced on her.He had never crossed the line after they had been together for so long. Joanne was almost overwhelmed with desire, feeling his strong body press down on her and smelling his intoxicating fragrance.But then, the door suddenly opened.Joanne was startled. Even though she had dreamed of having sex with Spencer, she never intended for it to happen in front of an audience.She was momentarily stunned. When she came to her senses, she saw the incredulous Ariana standing there.Joanna spoke, "Spence, don't… Not here. Let's go ho
Spencer had been on top of Joanne just a moment ago, and now, he was trying to get handsy with Ariana.Ariana was pressed against him, and she could feel that he had an abnormally high temperature."Get her out." Ariana grabbed Spencer's wandering hands as she said to Jensen, "Bring us a bucket of cold water. The icier, the better."Jensen didn't bother being gentle with Joanne. He tossed her out and shut the door before going to the bathroom to get water. Sienna had realized that something didn't seem right. She asked, "What's wrong with him, Ari?""He must have drunk something." Ariana had only heard of this kind of thing before, but this was the first time she was actually seeing it. "Can't you see that he seems to have lost all his senses?"Jensen came out holding a bucket of ice-cold water. "What should we do?"Ariana patted Spencer comfortingly on the back. He stopped being so restless and seemed to calm down slightly. Ariana said, "When I get up, toss that ice-cold w
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