Liliana was never one to be aggressive, but if someone pushed her too far, she saw no reason to hold back. Especially when it came to Joanna, whom she had never found particularly likable.Today, Joanna had come not just to ask about Sean but also to subtly provoke her, something Liliana simply could not tolerate.Joanna, however, had no idea what she had done to upset Liliana. Just moments ago, Liliana had been perfectly polite, but now, she was responding with cold indifference.Joanna furrowed her brows and was about to say something when the hospital ward door suddenly opened. Sean stepped in, his gaze immediately landing on Joanna. His brows creased slightly, and his expression darkened with obvious displeasure.Joanna froze, momentarily at a loss for what to do. She was startled by the look on Sean's face, and her heart skipped a beat. Before she could speak, Sean shifted his gaze away from her and asked in a calm but distant voice, "Why are you here?"Joanna opened her mout
Liliana struggled, but Sean warned her, "Looks like you want me to call your brother over?"She immediately stopped moving, but her gaze remained locked on Sean, stubbornness clear in her eyes.Sean felt a sharp pang in his chest. That look—so defiant—was exactly like how she had looked years ago at Jadebrook High when he first saw her. Even though she had been bullied, her eyes had never lost that resilience.He stared into her eyes as if looking at a long-lost memory.Joanna, watching their interaction, could no longer hold back. "Sean, I'll get going then."Sean gave no response to Joanna's departure. His focus remained entirely on Liliana. "You'll need to stay in the hospital for another half a month. After that, you can go wherever you want. No one will stop you."His voice suddenly turned cold, sending a shiver through Liliana. However, as she thought about it, it made sense. Sean probably did not want to see her either. He was only doing this because of Charles."Then I'l
Charles noticed that Liliana was keeping her head down and remaining silent. His deep, contemplative eyes reflected a glimmer of thought as he tapped his knee and paused before speaking."I'll be heading to Capiton soon. While I'm away from Brookville, you can go to Sean if anything happens…""No need!" Liliana refused without hesitation. She was well aware of the gap between herself and Sean.Besides, even if Charles was not around, she could handle things on her own. There was no reason to seek Sean's help.Charles studied her closely as if trying to discern something from her expression, but Liliana remained tense and reserved.Narrowing his eyes slightly, Charles said, "Then go to Peter if you need anything. He's more reliable than Sean."Liliana wanted to refuse again, but seeing the subtle downturn of Charles' expression, she ultimately held back her rejection. "Alright, if something happens, I'll go to Peter."She wasn't particularly familiar with Peter, but given his con
Liliana had been in the hospital for over a month. Since she was still a new employee at the company, they were not going to make any special accommodations for her just because of her illness. When she returned to work, the only news she received was that she had been let go.She had already prepared herself for this outcome, so when she heard the news, she remained relatively calm.After quickly packing up her belongings, she left the office. When Tania found out, she insisted on taking Liliana out that evening to "shake off the bad luck". In reality, however, it was just an excuse—Tania was simply looking for an opportunity to eat good food.Since Liliana had nothing else to do, she went grocery shopping in the afternoon. When she returned, she was surprised to see someone standing outside her door. She paused for a moment before smiling faintly."Keith, what are you doing here?"Keith scratched his head awkwardly, looking a little embarrassed. "Tania called me… She told me you
Keith watched Liliana as he spoke. She was momentarily stunned before letting out a soft laugh. "And what exactly did she want to know?""Nothing much, really. She just asked about your family," Keith replied, hesitating for a moment as if worried she might be upset."I didn't say anything. I just thought I should let you know. Joanna doesn't seem very friendly."Liliana fell silent for a few seconds before responding calmly, "It's fine."Keith nodded but continued, "She asked if I knew who your older brother was. Liliana… do you have a brother?"Liliana stiffened slightly and pressed her fingers together before answering, "Yeah, I have an older brother. But we're only half-siblings, so we don't interact much."Keith accepted her explanation and didn't push further. "I don't trust Joanna. You should stay away from her."Liliana smiled. "I know."…After losing her job, Liliana continued her job hunt while occasionally attending classes. Time passed slowly in this routine.Eve
Seeing Savannah smiling so warmly at Joanna felt like a needle stabbing Liliana's heart. Her face turned pale, and after standing for so long, she realized her legs had gone stiff.No one inside the private room had noticed her, nor did they have any idea about the turmoil she was experiencing.Liliana felt as if she had lost her mind for even standing there, watching.She bit down hard on her lower lip, only snapping out of her trance when the sharp pain brought her back to reality.A bitter smile tugged at the corners of her lips. Before anyone inside could notice her, she turned and quickly walked away. However, her unsteady steps betrayed the chaos inside her.…Inside the room, Joanna sat across from the middle-aged couple, her hands clasped tightly together, clearly nervous."I had no idea… that you two were Sean's parents," she said shyly.Sean narrowed his eyes slightly at her words.Savannah studied Joanna and found herself liking her more and more."Sean, so you and
No parent disliked hearing their child being praised, and Savannah was no exception. She genuinely believed Sean was outstanding, so hearing Joanna's compliments only made her even more pleased. She found Joanna even more likable.From beginning to end, however, Sean, the person being praised, showed little reaction. The only reason he had come today was because Savannah had called him and insisted that he join them after finishing surgery.Sean had always been carefree and indifferent, but he cared deeply for his family—especially for Savannah, the woman Hayes had always cherished.Savannah had told him she was hosting a dinner for the person who had saved her life. If he did not come, he might as well stop calling her his mother.Since she had put it that way, even if Sean was unwilling, he still had to show up. However, he was slightly surprised to see that the guest of honor was Joanna.Sean was well aware of Joanna's feelings for him. The admiration in her eyes whenever she l
Liliana tugged at the corners of her lips, but her attempt at a smile felt painful. Raising a hand, she slapped herself hard, hoping to jolt herself awake.Her face burned with pain, and her stomach churned as if it were on fire. There was an unbearable discomfort spreading through her.She turned on the faucet, scooped up a handful of cold water, and splashed it onto her face. The chilling sensation shocked her system, clearing some of the haze clouding her mind.Bracing herself against the sink, she stayed like that for a long moment before letting out a short, bitter laugh.The right side of her face still stung from the slap, but at least she felt more awake now.Liliana lingered in the restroom a while longer, waiting until she felt completely sober before staggering out.The moment she stepped outside, a strong smell of cigarette smoke filled her nose. She turned slightly and saw a man standing near the designated smoking area.He leaned casually against the wall, his long
"Sean, stop messing around. Let go of me first," Liliana tugged at Sean's arm, realizing how tightly he was holding her. "You're choking me."Only then did Sean loosen his grip slightly, though he still did not let her go. His forehead rested against hers, and he panted softly. "Liliana, do you remember what you said to me in the fire?"Liliana's face turned red, and she awkwardly turned her head away. "N-No, I don't remember. What did I say? I don't think I—mmph..."Before she could finish, Sean kissed her, swallowing the rest of her words with that one stubborn kiss.Liliana raised her hands and smacked Sean on the shoulder, trying to push him away. "Sea—mmph, what are you doing? Let me go..."She shoved him hard, and Sean stumbled back, clutching his chest. Liliana's face went pale, and she rushed over. "Sean, what's wrong? Are you okay? Did I hurt you somewhere?"Nonetheless, Sean took the opportunity to wrap his arms around her again. That feeling of holding her tightly
Noelle raised an eyebrow. "I didn't say that."Then, she added, "That knot in Liliana's heart can only be undone by Sean."What happened back then had always been a shadow between the two of them. Noelle had noticed it these past few days. Though Liliana stubbornly claimed she no longer cared, she clutched her phone every single day, obviously waiting for a call.Liliana's social circle was small. Noelle and the others knew everyone she knew. Who else could she be waiting for but Sean?Charles furrowed his brows. "If Liliana can't have the best, then she's better off with nothing."Noelle could not help but laugh. "Alright, alright. I know you're still holding a grudge against Hayes and Savannah."Honestly, Noelle shared the sentiment. "Savannah really crossed a line with how she handled everything."Charles reached out and gently pinched Noelle's knuckles. "That's not what I meant."Noelle chuckled, exasperated. "I know."Outside, the sound of a car engine drew their attentio
Sean shoved Hayes away. "Dad, if you're just like Mom and trying to stop me from being with Liliana, then don't even bother. If I can't marry Liliana in this lifetime, I won't marry anyone else."With that, Sean lay down decisively. Hayes frowned. "Sean, this isn't about what we want anymore. It's about Liliana and Charles now."Truthfully, Hayes did not have many opinions about Sean and Liliana's relationship. He was always too busy with the company to pay attention to such things. Even the events from four years ago were only now becoming clearer to him."If you insist on marrying her, I won't stop you. But from what I can see, the problem lies with Liliana and Charles."Sean's gaze sharpened as he clenched his fists. "That's impossible. Liliana already forgave me back when the fire happened. She promised that if we both made it out, she'd marry me."Hayes sighed. "Your mother… She misunderstood Liliana and said some harsh things. Just rest for now. Once you're better, we'll go
Sean spat out a mouthful of blood. One hand gripped the bedsheet tightly, his gaze turning darker than ever."What do you mean by that? What do you mean she doesn't want to marry me? She promised me. She said that as long as I was willing to walk out of that fire with her, she'd be with me. You're lying to me, aren't you? Tell me you're lying to me."Sean's bloodshot eyes locked on Savannah's. "Tell me."Savannah was momentarily stunned by the sheer force of Sean's gaze. This was the first time she ever felt fear in front of her own son. "Sean, I…""Where's Liliana?" Sean demanded."Sean," Hayes called out as he pushed open the door and stepped in. "That's no way to speak to your mother.""Then how should I speak to her?" Sean's voice turned icy."Did you know it was Joanna who drugged me nine years ago? And while I was under the influence, I forced myself on Liliana? I misunderstood her, and as a result, she had to hide in the countryside for years."Four years ago, it was me
The operating room door swung open, and Liliana spun around. She saw Saxon step out. Not caring about anyone else’s opinions, she grabbed his hand. "Mr. Holt, how's Sean?"Saxon looked down at their hands, noting how soft and warm hers was. He met her eyes and nodded. "The patient is out of danger now. He should wake up by tomorrow."Hearing that, Liliana let out a sigh of relief and then suddenly fainted."Liliana!"Charles rushed over and wrapped Liliana in a tight hug, but his eyes quickly darted to Hayes and Savannah. "Now that Sean is safe, Sean's fate is no longer Liliana's concern, nor ours," he declared, speaking for the Hoffman family.With those words, Charles carried Liliana away. Saxon was tugged along by Linda. "Saxon, you should check on her. The young lady seemed off to me. She's been hiding her pain. Besides the wound on her shoulder, I think she breathed in a lot of smoke."Saxon's eyes shimmered for a moment. "Yeah, I'm aware."Liliana had been pushing through
"Charles, you…""Stop it!" Hayes was taken aback by Savannah suddenly slapping Liliana. He did not particularly like or dislike Liliana, but she was part of the Hoffman family, and their family commanded much respect. Besides, Noelle was still Charles's wife, and they had to be careful about their actions.Hayes turned to Charles. "I'm sorry, my wife acted without thinking. But what in the world happened today?"Hayes had been told that his son was hurt, but he did not know the details. When he arrived and saw Liliana was there and injured too, Hayes and Savannah could not help but think that Liliana must be connected to Sean's injury.Charles gave a sharp look. "It was Joanna's doing.""Joanna? No, that can't be!" Savannah was shocked to hear the name Joanna, and she quickly objected, "Joanna is such a sweet girl, she couldn't possibly...""Oh, sweet indeed!"Liliana, who had been silent until then, finally spoke. She narrowed her eyes and stood up, ignoring the pain from her w
"Liliana!""Get up quickly!" Liliana used all her strength to pull Sean up from the ground. "Can you walk?""Uh-huh!" Sean had been hit by a falling piece of wood on his leg when he tried to push Liliana out earlier. That was why he could not get out in time and could only hear Liliana's loud calls from outside.He had wished so badly for Liliana to leave quickly, but she had come back for him.Sean bit down hard and pushed himself up.Even if it was hard to walk, he had to try because Liliana wanted him to stand.Liliana slung Sean's arm over her shoulder, noticing his injury. Her eyes were red with tears. "Sean, hang in there. If we both make it out today, I'll forgive you. You can ask me to do anything.""Really?" Sean's eyes sparkled, and he smiled. "Liliana, I don't want you to do anything." In his heart, he added, ‘I just want you to marry me.’"The fire is licking at our heels, and you two are still dawdling," came Charles's icy voice from up ahead. In a flash, he was be
"Sean, where are you? Didn't you just say you love me?" she cried out. "How can you leave me like this, saying you love me and then j-j-just giving up? What am I supposed to do now?"Sean, you took our child from me. How could you think I'd just forgive you? If you don't make this right, I swear I'll never forgive you," Liliana yelled outside, her voice filled with madness. Inside, the plant was engulfed in flames. Shaking from head to toe, Liliana's screams slowly turned into a whisper. She clenched her hands tight, staring blankly at the fire. "If you're gone, what's left for me here?""Liliana!"Charles rushed over and saw Liliana moving toward the flames. He grabbed her and pulled her back. "What are you doing?"Liliana looked up, dazed, and saw Charles. She quickly stood up and grabbed his hand. "Charles, please. I'm begging you. Help me save Sean, please!"Charles's brow creased as he looked at the fiery red inferno, his fingers tensing. "Liliana, the fire's too big. Sean mi
Liliana shoved Sean aside and covered him with her body, taking a knife stab from Joanna. "Ugh..."Pain whitened Liliana's face, and blood dripped onto Sean's face. Reacting quickly, Sean rolled over, picked Liliana up in his arms, and seized Joanna's neck, twisting it hard until it cracked. Joanna's eyes bulged in disbelief as she stared at Sean."You..."She had not thought Sean would actually snap her neck. Her eyes were wide open, one hand clutching a knife, and the other holding a lighter.With her last breath, she tossed the lighter.A loud bang followed, and flames started to spread from that spot.Sean's eyes darkened as he carried Liliana and dashed for the exit. However, how could he outrun the swift spread of the fire while burdened with Liliana's weight?Liliana's eyes widened as she saw the flames creeping up behind them. She pushed Sean, urging him, "Go now, or it'll be too late!"However, Sean's eyes turned a deep red with emotion. "Liliana, I won't let go of you