Lana was, after all, a young lady who had been spoiled. She was very well-loved as a child and was quite coddled. She was not as mature and cunning as some other girls her age—any cunningness she may have had in this life was all spent on Larissa.To her, Miqeila was just a lousy aunt who constantly tailed after Xavier in a subservient manner, hoping for a bite of his wealth. As this lousy aunt of hers had gained a great deal of benefits from her own family, it was time for her to pay back what she was given. Therefore, she did not suspect Miqeila at all when she left with her, and things were developing the way she expected them to.She checked into a high-end hotel and got a bunch of pretty clothes, including expensive cosmetics. Her life was now like this—sleeping after eating, then waking up to repeat the process. Quite the wonderful, perfect life indeed.However, this only lasted for three days. After that, she officially stepped into hell.…Kevan would receive email reports
This was a huge case that was enough to gain some form of meritorious credit. Kevan did Jack a favor by passing this case to him before seeking a news outlet to expose this company's abhorrent practices. Of course, his uncles' pictures also "accidentally" ended up in the news.The exploitation of minors was a serious crime anywhere. To get the media in on this would mean that everyone would know. The netizens were so enraged by this that the government—in order to reassure the public—naturally treated this case seriously.With Bernard and Felix being on the news and having their identities exposed by some other person, they became the most obvious people to target. The Rogers were a big family with several large businesses, so they had connections in many domains. But this time, no matter how many connections they tried to reach out to, no matter how many multi-million-dollar gifts they sent, no one dared to stand up for them.The government had already given the order: these two me
Aster was taller than the last time Kevan saw him, and he was a little stronger too. When he slammed into Kevan, the man was knocked back a few steps. But luckily, he was able to catch Aster while remaining on his feet."Daddy!" Aster's arms were wrapped firmly around Kevan's neck, his little face beaming with joy.Kevan hummed lightly in response, turning around to leave with the kid in his arms. "Hungry?" Kevan asked, and Aster nodded, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I want to eat Daddy's cooking!"This was what Kevan promised him before he came here. "Sure!" Kevan agreed gladly.…There was no pantry in the hotel suite, so Kevan followed Aster home.The three-bedroom apartment was jointly purchased by Larissa and Wendy, and they were both paying the monthly mortgage together. The location of the apartment was not bad, and it was just a few hundred yards away from Aster's kindergarten. There was an abundance of commercial streets nearby too. Although it was crowded, one
Kevan looked up and saw the deep blue ceiling. It was covered in star-shaped lights. A sparkling silver galaxy surrounded the lights. Gold dust shimmered around it."These were all painted by Mommy! Godma told me that whenever Mommy had time, she would come here to paint stars for me, even when she was really busy!" Aster boasted proudly.A scene of a slender and delicate woman standing alone on a ladder appeared in Kevan's mind. She held a palette in one hand and a brush in the other. She was focused on painting the ceiling. How did she feel at that time? Probably happy, just like how he felt right now, looking at her "masterpiece."However, compared to her, he also felt a hint of inexplicable bitterness."Does Mommy like ... I mean, the stars in the sky?" Kevan struggled to speak. His voice was hushed and hoarse. Larissa must have liked stars a lot. He couldn't think of any other reasons she would name her son "Aster" and put so much effort into decorating the room.Aster lo
Kevan had always been a good cook. But due to his busy schedule, he didn't get many chances to cook. Kevan unbuttoned his cuffs and rolled up his sleeves, revealing his forearms. He also took off his wristwatch and placed it on the coffee table in the living room.Wendy was always concerned about the hygiene of outside food. So, she would make dinner for Aster every day, no matter how busy or tired she was. As a result, Kevan found the ingredients she had yet to use up from the fridge.Yet, when Kevan took out the steak and large prawns from the freezer, Aster immediately showed a disappointed face."I don't want steak or prawns for dinner," he expressed his opinion. Wendy's home-cooked meals were limited. She would usually fry the steak and prawns in butter and sprinkle some black pepper on them. This would be their usual dinner whenever she returned home late."I'm tired of them." Aster wrinkled his face. He glanced at the steak and prawns before turning away.He understood
What's wrong? Tell Daddy. I promise I'll help you out," Kevan assured Aster.When Aster heard the word "Daddy," his heartache intensified, and tears started flowing down his cheeks. His tears soaked Kevan's shirt. Kevan grew even more concerned, comforting Aster with one hand on his back while gently wiping away the tears from his face."If you really don't want steak and prawns, I'll go out right now and get you something else. Please, don't cry anymore, alright?" Kevan spoke softly and tenderly. He lifted Aster in his arms and walked to the living room in big strides."No ..." Aster stammered. Kevan's heart clenched at the sight of his son's teary, pitiful expression. "I ... it's not … because of that..." Aster's breath was unsteady, and his words came out in fragments."What's it about then?" Kevan remained extremely patient, showing no hint of annoyance.Aster fell silent again. There was a mix of hesitation, conflict, and fear in his eyes. Kevan remained quiet; he did not urg
Kevan fried the marinated beef. He also cooked the prawns that had been cleaned. Then, he coated the prawns with a sauce made from Greek yogurt and lemon juice. He also prepared the sweet potatoes and quickly whipped up some scrambled eggs.The spaghetti was ready by then, so he served two helpings and brought them to Aster. Aster was already eagerly waiting in the dining room."Whoa!" Aster couldn't help but drool, but he refrained from picking up his utensils until Kevan sat down."Daddy, you should go ahead and eat first!" Although he was speaking to Kevan, his eyes were locked on the mouthwatering skewered meat.Kevan smiled and picked up a piece of skewered meat, placing it on Aster's plate. "Give it a try and tell me how it tastes."The meat had cooled down by then. Aster grabbed the skewer and took a big bite. The seasoning smeared all over his mouth. However, he seemed oblivious to it. With a big thumbs up, he exclaimed, "This is the most delicious thing I've ever eaten!"
Wendy had seen photos of Kevan on Aster's phone. Also, Aster had already informed her that Kevan would be coming to cook for him today. So, she rushed back from work as soon as possible. Fortunately, she caught him just in time."Mr. Rogers, I've heard so much about you." She showed no sign of hesitation as she confidently approached him and extended her hand.He stared at her hand. He hesitated for a moment before finally shaking it.Of course, she didn't miss this small detail. She had heard about how much of a clean freak Kevan was. That was why she took the initiative to shake hands with him, just to see how he would react.She had anticipated a refusal, but whatever happened only deepened her smile."I heard from Aster that you're going to cook for him today?" She glanced at the dining table, which was empty. She continued, "Is the dinner not ready yet?"Aster chimed in, "We've already eaten! Daddy's cooking is super delicious! Even better than ... I mean, the food at rest
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