"But the way you treat Nancy...""Look, how I treat my Aunt Nancy is my choice. She's my uncle's wife, and she practically raised me. I see nothing wrong about being good to her now. Don't forget you were the one who walked away from me when I was little, Mom. So, don't expect too much now. No matter what, you're still my mother in the Hoffman family records, and that's not changing.""Charles!" A shiver ran down Clarisse's spine at his words. She was terrified that he might say something even more cutting."Mom, if there's nothing else, I've got work to do. I can't stay on the phone.""Charles!" Clarisse caught him just in time. "After all these years, can't you find it in your heart to forgive me? I'm back and trying to make things right now. I am your mother, Charles. Everything I've done has been for you. Can't you forgive me? Please let me...""Mom, what are you trying to say?"Becky had just knocked and stepped into the room when Charles gestured for her to hold off on spea
However, this year was different. Janet was in the picture, and Becky had a feeling that if she were to dance with Charles as usual, Janet might not take it well—to put it mildly. More importantly, Becky had a nagging feeling that Charles had changed. She could not tell if it was just her imagination, but she was pretty sure that Charles had someone else in mind for this year's opening dance.Charles's mood had been pretty downcast, but Becky's words were like a switch flipping on a light. His eyebrow quirked up, and he shot her a look of approval. "What do you think?""I think we need to shake things up this year. Mr. Hoffman, you and I dance every year. It's kind of become predictable." Becky let out a small laugh, and when she noticed Charles did not seem upset, she relaxed and went on. "Do you have anyone in mind, Mr. Hoffman?"He looked at her, signaling her to continue. Becky inhaled deeply. "Mr. Hoffman, you're a catch. Lots of women at the company think so. What if we did a
"It's their wedding anniversary," Charles said with a grin. "Aunt's not feeling too great, so Uncle doesn’t want to take her out. They're keeping it low-key at home. Let's not crash their cozy date night."Uncle Henry, Charles's uncle, was notorious for spoiling his wife Nancy rotten. Even after over twenty years of marriage, his love for her had not faded one bit. Charles could not help but admire their relationship.Noelle had not known Henry and Nancy for very long, but she had gotten to know them well ever since the couple moved into Phoenix Tree Residence. She had witnessed their unwavering support and devotion to each other.With Nancy's health on the rocks, Henry had been her pillar of support, giving her his undivided attention. It was a rare kind of love, and Noelle was relieved that Nancy had Henry by her side."Okay, we'll grab dinner out today," Noelle decided. It was Henry and Nancy's anniversary, after all, and she and Charles would not dream of intruding. That just w
Janet hovered by the car door, peering into the car like a detective on the trail.Noelle had just settled into the seat and was straightening up, her fingers reaching for her phone to call Charles when a sudden shadow made her jump. She twisted around and came face-to-face with Janet's face, magnified and almost plastered against the window.Noelle's breath hitched, her heart pounding as she clutched her phone tighter. Janet's intense and unblinking eyes bore into hers through the glass.Noelle was petrified, forgetting that the window was tinted. Though she could see outside, Janet could not see inside. Her heart was racing so fast it felt like it was about to jump out of her mouth. She gulped, convinced that Janet had spotted her. However, after an agonizing wait, Janet did not make a move. She just straightened up, leaned casually against the car, and started fiddling with her phone out of sheer boredom.It was only then that Noelle let out a sigh of relief, remembering that
Janet came from a world where everything was sunshine and rainbows. No one ever dared to cross her with harsh words. However, with Charles, it was like he had a knack for breaking her heart over and over.Holding back tears, Janet pouted. "Charles, you've got it all wrong. I just wanted to head back with you. That's all!""All I see is your money and nothing more.""Charles, what's that supposed to mean?" Janet's face lost all color. "I can't understand what you're saying!""You don't want to get it. That's the problem." Charles's frown deepened, his gaze growing intense. "You’re playing dumb, but you know exactly what I’m saying.”Janet's face turned even whiter, her lip quivering. "Charles, how can you be so cruel? I thought I meant...""I've been biting my tongue because you're a Baker, but don't push it. I've shown your family plenty of respect, but if you start taking advantage, don't expect me to play nice. Step aside!" With a scowl, Charles cut the conversation short, do
Charles gripped the steering wheel so hard his knuckles turned white. Janet's words had hit him like a punch, and he was seething.Noelle gently took his clenched hand, her touch soothing. It was like magic. The storm inside him quieted. He was like a raging lion, teetering on the brink of an outburst, but she managed to reel him back in.Charles glanced at Noelle, her worried eyes locked on him. He sighed. "You're not mad?""Why would I be mad?" Noelle's voice was calm, and she gave a small laugh. "You shouldn't be mad either.""I was afraid you'd be bothered by her!" He was genuinely concerned that Janet's claims would unsettle Noelle.Noelle quirked an eyebrow. "What do you take me for? Why would I be bothered? You're mine now. She's the one who should be worried."With a playful grin, Noelle added, "Actually, I should be thanking Janet. Who knew you cared about me so much?"He raised an eyebrow. "You mean you haven't noticed everything I've done for you?"Charles let out a
Noelle found them a quiet corner to settle down in. The class bell had rung not long ago, so the place was buzzing with students, mostly in small groups, full of life and laughter.Suddenly, Noelle felt a twinge of envy for those college kids, thinking back to her own university days that had slipped away.It was a popular restaurant, and even with wait staff on deck, they were stretched thin. Noelle and Charles waited patiently before they finally got to order their meal.The place was a hit with students and teachers because they could always count on getting a mountain of food. Noelle could still remember their first visit when they ordered way too much and ended up stuffed to the gills with leftovers in tow back to the dorm.That time around, Noelle kept it simple with just two dishes and a soup. She glanced at Charles. “Do you think that’s enough? Want to grab anything else?"She slid the menu his way, but Charles just waved it off with a smile. "We're good!" He was never one
Noelle skipped along, her steps light and playful, which might have looked a bit silly to anyone watching. However, she was in her own little bubble of happiness. "Charles.""Yeah?"Charles made a sound of acknowledgment but did not turn around. "What's up?""Nothing. I just felt like saying your name." She was basking in the quiet moment. It was strange. Although she and Charles had only known each other for six months, it felt like they had known each other for much longer, almost like an old married couple. "Hey, what movie did Ronald end up booking for us?""I'm not sure. I told him to choose anything that fits our schedule!" Charles finally looked at her. "Or are you not in the mood for a movie?"Noelle bit her lip thoughtfully. "To be honest, there doesn't seem to be anything great playing right now.""Then let's skip it," Charles decided with ease. "Where would you like to go instead?""I've got no idea." Noelle shook her head, a little smile on her face. "We should just
"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