However, many seconds had passed, and Kevan still showed no intention of leaving the kitchen.Larissa looked at him in confusion. "Anything else?""Nah." He smirked, with a hint of amusement in his dark eyes. "It's pretty boring to be sitting alone outside, so I thought I'd hang out and chat with you."Once again, she was annoyed at herself for asking him the question. Being alone with Kevan was undoubtedly more difficult and agonizing than dealing with difficult clients. Worse still, she couldn't decline his offer."Alright, sure." She forced a smile.She ensured she appeared occupied—fetching water, boiling water, finding cups, and preparing tea. She kept her actions smooth without any pause, making it hard for Kevan to find an opportunity to talk to her. However, boiling water took some time.So, she turned and faced him. Before he had a chance to speak, she quickly added, "I'll go check if Aster is awake."Of course, Kevan was aware that she was intentionally avoiding him. He felt
Kevan narrowed his eyes. Bethany was likely to turn out badly with such poor parenting. While he wouldn't harm her, he also wouldn't go out of his way to direct her to the right path either. What she would become in the future was completely up to her.Larissa's heart sank as she listened. She advised, "Bethany is still young, and her flaws can be corrected slowly. You just need more patience. I see you have plenty of patience with Aster, and you seem to know how to interact with children.""That's because I like Aster." Kevan's smile softened as he mentioned Aster. "Aster is a good kid. He's good-looking and well-behaved, unlike Bethany."She naturally felt happy and proud upon hearing him praise Aster. In response, she complimented with a guilty conscience, saying, "Actually, Bethany isn't that ugly. If she were to lose weight, she would definitely look prettier." To be honest, even if they overlooked all other physical imperfections, her small eyes wouldn't become larger even with t
Wendy fell silent for a moment before asking Larissa, "Do you remember Barbara's prediction back then?"Of course, Larissa remembered, even though six years had passed, and they had long moved away from the town without further contact with Barbara.Her feelings toward Barbara had transformed from initial dislike and rejection to gratitude. If it were not for Barbara, she would have never been convinced to keep the child.But she didn't understand the purpose behind Wendy's question. "Why are you bringing this up now?""Well, Barbara said that you will reunite with your ex-lover," Wendy said with a serious tone. She always believed in Barbara's words. "So, perhaps, now is the time."Kevan had lost his memory and had no connection to Larissa's past. His words to Aster couldn't be baseless—either he was interested in Larissa, or he genuinely liked Aster. Regardless, he would make a fitting "father figure" for Aster. More importantly, Aster also liked him a lot.Larissa appreciated Barbar
Larissa would never allow Aster to be in such a dangerous situation. Once again, Wendy fell silent. There was a long pause before she asked, "What if Kevan pursues you?"Larissa replied firmly, "That's impossible!"Wendy became angry. "Fine! I won't give you advice anymore. Do as you wish!" She gritted her teeth and ended the video call abruptly.…Larissa had a restless night, likely influenced by Wendy's words. She had a long dream. In that dream, Kevan embraced Ruby and stood before her. The two of them were still as sweet and affectionate as before, completely ignoring her presence. Larissa watched from a distance with her heart aching. All of a sudden, two cats appeared in Ruby's arms. They were Muffin and Cookie, the ones she had raised. She'd left in a hurry previously and entrusted the cats to a pet shop. She left Violet's contact information with the pet shop, but she wasn't sure if Violet had ever brought them back home."Muffin! Cookie!" she called out with joy.However, th
Larissa had been sticking to a regular routine for some time now in order to take care of Aster. But this time, her sleep quality had dropped, and she unexpectedly got a headache. She wasn't sure if it was a sign of getting older or simply leading an overly comfortable life before.Her temples throbbed persistently, accompanied by nausea and chest tightness. As a result, she couldn't focus during the meeting and couldn't recall what others had said.After she instructed her secretary to make a photocopy of the meeting minutes for her, she headed downstairs alone. Her headache became unbearable, and she urgently needed to visit the pharmacy to purchase a box of painkillers.There were guests going through the check-in process at the front desk, which was a common sight in hotels. She merely glanced at them and continued walking but stopped when she heard the words "presidential suite". The Winston Hotel, being a five-star hotel rivaling Regal Dynasty Hotel, naturally offered presidenti
If it were at 7 pm, then Larissa would need to ask her assistant to stay a little longer after work to keep an eye on Aster."Sure, I'll be there on time," she replied with a smile.Gary let go of her hand and rotated his wrist, turning his palm upward. "This time, you should have your contact information, I hope?" he asked.Larissa handed him her business card. "If you need anything or have any suggestions or feedback about our hotel, feel free to reach out to me at any time."He carefully tucked her business card into his pocket and said, "Great."…Larissa had already instructed Aster to wait for her in the office at night and not wander around."Ah …" He frowned and appeared reluctant. "But I'm scared to be alone at night."She pinched his chubby face and reassured him, "You won't be. Chad will be around." Chad was her assistant."But Chad doesn't like to talk or play games. It's boring to be with him," Aster complained, his expression filled with worry.She playfully tapped his fo
Larissa made it to the room Gary had booked and found that he was already waiting for her inside. Most of the guests who stayed at the Winston Hotel were wealthy because five thousand dollars was the minimum spending for a room that could only accommodate ten people. Of course, the price per head of eating at the hotel's restaurant was a lot higher than other places, so nobody had to worry about not spending up to five thousand dollars. However … If there were only two people, then it was a different story altogether.Gary handed Larissa the menu and hinted intentionally, "Pick the more expensive dishes." However, Larissa felt embarrassed to do so. "You're an esteemed guest at our hotel, so you're exempt from the minimum spending rule," she lied. Anyway, she had a say in these matters after all. She picked two averagely-priced dishes and pushed the menu back to him. "Here, see if you would like to add anything," she said.Gary ordered one of each of the most expensive dishes the re
Larissa missed Aster, so she took out her phone to see if there were any messages from her assistant. Gary thought she was busy with work and was very considerate about it. "You may leave earlier if you have business to attend to," he said. "It's my son …" Larissa smiled apologetically. "He's waiting for me by himself upstairs and I'm quite worried.""You have a son?" Gary widened his eyes in surprise. "I thought you were still very young!" Regardless if he was just being courteous, Larissa took it as a compliment. "I'm already over thirty," she said. "Over thirty?" Gary zoned out for a brief moment and his expression suddenly became sorrowful. "My daughter … should be around your age! But I don't know if she could be as successful as you are." His words gave a lot of details away. Larissa was curious, but she was tactful enough not to pry. "She must be more successful than I am," she said.Gary smiled and dropped the topic. "Go ahead. Don't keep your kid waiting." Larissa th
Wendy said, "You have to walk faster than this, Larissa! It's almost time! Your husband can't wait!""Alright!" Larissa quickly gathered up her skirts and followed her.The sun was out.Its golden rays shone softly on the red carpet through the rose petals.Larissa suppressed her desire to stay here for a little while longer and quickly walked toward the end.It was the door to the glass hall.Gary held Aster's hand and his cane in the other, waiting for her at the entrance.When he saw her, Aster immediately let go of Gary's hand and rushed toward her. "You're so pretty today, Mommy!"Larissa patted his head and smiled gently. "Thank you."Aster was her flower boy. Like Gary, he was wearing a tuxedo with a little bowtie.He was holding a basket that was proportionate to his body. In it were rose petals of various colors and shapes.The music suddenly began playing.Gary walked up to her and extended his arm toward her. "Let's go."He looked at her with a smile, his eyes g
Gary and Lewis left Bartham after two days.Blue Star did not give them time off. They couldn't stay for long.Larissa's holidays were coming to an end as well. Half of the time, she was in the Rogers' villa.Because of the pandemic, most of the shops weren't open yet. She slept and ate at home most of the time and accompanied her family. It was quite nice.After the holidays, Kevan and Larissa went back to work.Aster was sent to the kindergarten that he'd been to before. Violet was the one who drove him to and fro.In fact, in order to better take care of him, the parents moved out of Rogers' villa and bought a house in Kevan and Larissa's neighborhood.The days passed in the blink of an eye.Blue Star's company in Bartham was quickly built. Lewis sent over a few loyal and trained employees to hold the fort with Larissa and hired people according to the company's needs. The company was soon on the right track, and the headquarters' work was moved over.Larissa grew busier an
Violet had set aside Larissa's breakfast for her.Larissa ate with reddened cheeks. Kevan and Aster, who had been waiting for her, got up at the same time. Violet brought out a boxful of pie from the kitchen."Don't forget this." She put the box in Kevan's hands."Alright. Thanks, Mom." Kevan looked at Larissa and asked, "Can we go now?"Larissa wanted to ignore him, but in front of Violet, she couldn't express her emotions right now."Yes," she replied, pulling Aster toward her. She said goodbye to Violet and strode out the door.Kevan smiled in slight annoyance and followed suit.…Kevan had told Aster beforehand that they were going to see Great-Grandpa. Thus, all of Aster's questions on the way there revolved around him."Why is great-grandpa called 'Great-Grandpa'?""Is he Grandpa's dad?""Is Great-Grandpa fierce?""If he's dead, how is he going to eat the pie?"…Kevan patiently answered all of his questions.Meanwhile, Larissa looked out the window silently.Keva
Since Larissa had gone downstairs alone, it was natural to expect a few questions."Where's Kevan? Why isn't he coming down with you?""Where's Daddy? He said he would launch fireworks with me."Larissa walked over calmly and made up an excuse. "He's tired, so he showered and slept."The older people did not doubt her. Only Lewis stared at her thoughtfully."Oh … Why did Daddy sleep so early?" Aster pouted in disappointment."You can get him to launch fireworks with you tomorrow. It'll be the same." Larissa patted his head, keeping a calm expression on her face.Anthony and Violet gave the gifts they'd prepared to Larissa and Aster.Violet looked at them, tears falling down her cheeks."I have no regrets now," she said."Thank you, Mom." Larissa gave her a big hug.Violet was stunned, and she cried harder."Good girl." She hugged Larissa back, smiling widely.After Anthony and Violet, Gary and Lewis gave them their gifts. However, they were calm. Aster was so happy that he
"Happy Reunion Day!"For some reason, Larissa's eyes became a little moist. Her voice even sounded a bit choked up."What's wrong?" Kevan nervously held her face, urging her to meet his gaze. "Didn't you like the fireworks just now?"She shook her head. "No, I really liked them!""Then, why are you crying?" Kevan couldn't stand seeing her cry; it tugged at his heart."I'm just very moved."She buried her face in his chest, speaking emotionally, "Welcoming the big family reunion dinner with the person you love is wonderful."The corners of Kevan's mouth gradually curved up as he heard what she said.The hand around her waist tightened inch by inch."I love you too, Lari."He lowered his head and planted a kiss on the top of her head.She hurriedly pushed him away as she sensed his body's response. But she couldn't move him much."They're still waiting for us downstairs!" she reminded him.Lewis knew she was awake, and the fireworks were already over. If they stayed he
It was a rare occasion to have the entire extended family gathered together like this for the big family reunion dinner. In the evening, everyone was in high spirits, having enjoyed a bit of alcohol. Violet took advantage of the festive atmosphere and insisted that Gary and Lewis stay.Since Larissa woke up early after a day without proper rest, she was already feeling quite sleepy even though the reunion dinner TV celebration had just begun.Violet was understanding and told her to go to bed.Larissa tried to muster her energy to stay up."No, I'll at least wait until after midnight."She wasn't someone who adhered to rituals or traditions.In previous years, she wouldn't have stayed up late specifically to welcome the big family reunion dinner day.But this year was different.She had the companionship of her family.She was no longer a drifting, rootless plant in a foreign land.Kevan furrowed his brows slightly and gave her a gentle push."You should get some sleep.
Larissa recalled that there was indeed such an incident.However, Kevan's excuse to her was that he needed to go to Westonia to handle matters concerning Edmund."Kevan knows how the customs work better than you! You're not even married. Yet, you're already taking his side!"Gary scoffed.His displeasure was quite obvious.Larissa chuckled awkwardly, then decided to come clean and reveal the whole truth. "Well, the truth is, Kevan and I never actually got divorced. I married him over six years ago."Gary hadn't heard this from Kevan.So, his emotions seemed conflicted upon first hearing that. He clutched his chest. It was as if he were experiencing some discomfort.Larissa and Lewis quickly approached him, asking with concern, "What's wrong? Are you okay?"In a sudden change of demeanor, Gary used his other hand to playfully tap Larissa's forehead.His expression instantly returned to normal. However, the tap was quite forceful, causing Larissa to wince in pain."If yo
Larissa had to pick up Gary and Lewis early tomorrow morning. So, after having dinner, she returned to her room to freshen up and get ready for bed. As she lay down on the bed, she found herself tossing and turning, unable to fall asleep no matter what she did.Kevan had just managed to put Aster to sleep before coming into the room. He noticed that the lights were still on.He furrowed his brow and asked, "Why haven't you fallen asleep yet?"Larissa lifted the blanket and sat up abruptly. "I'm feeling very anxious right now," she admitted.Her hair was in disarray.There was a troubled expression on her face."Anxious about what?" Kevan inquired."Well, my dad is coming over tomorrow. What if he doesn't get along with your parents?" The mere thought of that possibility gave her a headache."Uncle Gary is a reasonable person. He won't easily give anyone a hard time," Kevan defended Gary.His words brought a smile to Larissa's face. "Are you saying he hasn't been gi
"Alright, then. We shall head out." Larissa gathered her belongings and pulled Kevan toward the exit."I'll come pick you up tomorrow morning. It's almost the big family reunion dinner day. "So, it's hard to find a cab on the road. You might even find yourself waiting for half a day without coming across an empty cab."Gary didn't refuse. Instead, he requested, "Then, you come alone tomorrow."Her steps hesitated a moment, and she sighed inwardly. Gary really hadn't changed."Alright," she agreed.…As soon as they closed the door, Larissa began complaining to Kevan, "I thought my dad had really come around! Turns out, he still has reservations about you!"Kevan tightened his grip on her hand and smiled."Take it slow; there has to be a gradual process."He didn't expect Gary to change his attitude overnight. But as long as things were moving in a positive direction, he was content.She shrugged upon hearing that."Well, it's not me who's being wronged here; it's y