"I sold everything I had to send her to school and poured all my money into getting her to the big city, but now she won't even acknowledge me. She said I embarrassed her and told me to go back to the countryside..." George sobbed so pitifully that he almost convinced himself. His performance deserved an Oscar.The reporters clicked their cameras non-stop, eager to capture the drama. The story of a father abandoned by his foster daughter was the kind of hot topic that guaranteed a juicy headline. They all hoped to break the story first.The reporters couldn't help but feel sympathy for George. They all began to criticize Wendy. "How could Wendy be so heartless?" "I never believed anyone was born evil in this world—until Wendy came along!" one of them exclaimed.Benny handed George a tissue, his voice filled with anger. "The whole reason we're holding this press conference today is to expose Wendy for what she really is. Too many people still don't know the truth about her. She c
Everyone at the press conference was filled with outrage, with everyone pointing fingers at Wendy.Stanley's cold, sharp gaze locked onto her. He thought she deserved what was coming to her. Didn't she know this was a dangerous situation? How could she have come here alone?"Damn it!" Nathan muttered under his breath, stepping forward to protect Wendy. But someone moved faster. Stanley was already in front, his presence commanding attention.Nathan paused, feeling slightly bewildered. What was going on? Why was Stanley rushing in without thinking?The room, which was buzzing with chaos seconds ago, suddenly fell silent. Stanley watched as Wendy, the target of the mob, lifted her eyes—clear as a calm lake, yet full of power. She calmly surveyed the crowd, and with a single glance from her, everyone fell silent, as if the very air around her had shifted.Stanley froze in his tracks. He had never seen Wendy like this before.The reporters were also taken aback. They didn't und
George's eyes widened in disbelief. Now he understood. He hadn't realized it until this very moment. When he got out of prison, Wendy was the first to know. She had been waiting for him the whole time. Everyone thought she would never speak of the dark past from her childhood. After all, a woman's reputation meant everything. And she never did speak up. She didn't tell Glinda or Stanley. When George demanded money, Wendy gave it to him without hesitation. He had easily knocked her out and kidnapped her. It seemed like he truly had her in his grip.But it was never like that.She had been pretending the whole time. She had been wearing a small surveillance device, making it clear that everything—whether it was his demand for 100 million or his attempt to rape her in the cave—was all part of her plan. She fed his greed with her fake obedience and guided him with her feigned endurance, leading him straight into the abyss of his own crimes.She had set the trap, and after ten
The media conference had been a complete disaster for them.Lilian immediately said, "Wendy, I'm sorry. I misunderstood you earlier. Let me explain. I had no idea…" Wendy turned to look at her. "Are you sure about that?"At that moment, a police officer stepped forward and addressed Lilian. "Lilian Landon, you hid and assisted George during his escape. We reasonably suspect that you are an accomplice. Please come with us for questioning."Two officers grabbed Lilian by the arms.Her head buzzed. She remembered that, when George escaped, she had indeed sheltered him. Lilian stared at Wendy in disbelief. "You're behind this?" Wendy had arranged for Zayn to release George, knowing all along that he would try to approach the Crone family.Wendy looked at Lilian innocently, a slow, almost knowing smile creeping across her face. "I don't understand what you're talking about. Mom, you don't need to explain to me. You should go explain yourself to the authorities."Lilian was left
Realizing Benny was still on her side eased Jessica's nerves just a bit.-After the press conference ended, Stanley returned to his luxurious Rolls-Royce. His voice was low and smooth as he addressed Zayn, who sat in the front seat. "Tell the media team I don't want any details about Wendy leaking out."Zayn responded in a quiet tone, "Don't worry, Mr. Hawk. Some of the female reporters deleted all the photos and videos of Mrs. Hawk right on the spot. They won't be reporting on her."Stanley's lips curved into a faint smile. "She really knows how to manipulate people."Zayn replied with sincerity, "Mrs. Hawk is truly brave."Stanley raised an eyebrow. Yes, she really was brave.He pulled out his phone and dialed a number."Hello, Uncle Cyril."Stanley's uncle was the dean of Clavendale University, one of the top institutions in the country, and a man completely obsessed with medicine. He was known and respected everywhere.Cyril's voice came through the phone. "Stanley, what
Everyone emptied their glasses.At that moment, the television in the private room started broadcasting a news report. The host, holding a microphone, said, "Today, the authorities arrested a criminal who committed child molestation and attempted rape. They have also captured a suspected accomplice."The screen showed George, his head covered with a black bag, being escorted to a police car. Then, Lilian was shown being led away.The three men didn't recognize George, but they all knew Lilian. They froze for a moment. "Mr. Crone, doesn't that suspect look like Mrs. Crone?"What?Harry, who had been about to pour more wine, stopped mid-motion. He turned toward the television. Sure enough, there she was—Lilian.His face instantly drained of color, and he stood frozen in place.The host continued, "Everyone's asking who the biggest simp of the century is—well, I've got to hand it to this suspect. Despite her age, she's actually selling her own daughter just to be a simp herself
Jessica actually invited Wendy for coffee.Wendy didn't respond immediately, but Jessica raised an eyebrow and smiled. "What's the matter, Wendy? Are you scared? You've been winning lately, riding high on your victories. Are you afraid of me?"Wendy curved her lips into a small smile and replied, "I'll see you soon."She hung up the phone and got ready to leave.Just then, her phone pinged. It was a message from Cyril Lincoln, which was an operation plan.Cyril wrote, [Ms. Crone, this is a difficult surgery I encountered last week. When you have time, could you guide me through it?]Cyril was the dean of Clavendale University and also one of her students. Trish, who came from the same university, was one of Cyril's favorites.It was thanks to Cyril's strong recommendation, Trish became her assistant.So, in a way, Cyril and Trish were all her disciples.Wendy replied, [Okay.]-Half an hour later, Wendy arrived at the café and immediately spotted Jessica.Rather than sittin
Wendy gave a bitter, self-mocking smile.-In the VIP room of the hospital, Jessica's leg had already been treated by the doctor.Stanley pressed his lips together as he looked at the doctor. "Are her injuries severe? Will they affect her ability to dance in the future?"The doctor reassured him, "Mr. Hawk, there's no need to worry. We did an X-ray, and thankfully, they're just soft tissue injuries. There's no damage to the bones or tendons. With proper rest, she'll be able to dance again."Once the doctor left, Stanley felt a soft sensation in his palm. He looked down and saw Jessica's small hand reaching up, slipping into his grasp. She held onto him gently.As he looked down at her, Jessica gave him a faint smile, her pale face showing a touch of vulnerability. "Stanley, I'm fine. Don't worry so much about me."Stanley was so tense, and though she had expected it, a wave of sweetness washed over her heart."Why did you throw yourself down the stairs?" he suddenly asked, his
Stanley's expression softened a little."I like this bag. As a token of my gratitude, I'd like to invite Jessica to my house tomorrow," Halsey said.Hearing that she was inviting Jessica to the Lincoln family's estate tomorrow, Stanley nodded. "Alright."After he left, Wendy returned. "Hey, sorry I was gone for so long."Halsey took Wendy's hand. "I was just about to come find you."Wendy smiled in return. "Let's go. I'm hungry. Let's head to the snack street.""Alright. I'll take care of the bill," Halsey replied.Wendy immediately stopped her and pulled out a gold-embossed black card from her bag. "Don't fight me for it. Tonight, I'm paying. This is the card Stanley gave me when we divorced. From now on, I'll use his card. Let him foot the bill."Halsey's eyes lit up. "Attagirl! This is Mr. Hawk's compensation for you. If you don't spend it, Jessica will."Wendy stared at the black card in her hand. "How much do you think this card is worth?"Halsey thought for a moment. "I
They had all hoped to see Wendy make a fool of herself, but in the end, she had humiliated them completely. It was outrageous!Stanley watched Wendy's slender figure as she walked away, his gaze deep and unreadable. No one could tell what he was thinking. He pressed his lips together, then said softly, "Alright, that's enough."Jessica quieted down, her anger toward Wendy still simmering beneath the surface. She tried to suppress it, focusing instead on her goal. "Stanley, you said tonight you'd introduce me to Bebe. Where is she?"Jessica hadn't forgotten the reason she was here. She was determined to marry Stanley as soon as possible.Having just seen Halsey, Stanley murmured, "I'll go find her."Without missing a beat, Jessica quickly handed him the limited-edition handbag. "Stanley, give this to her. She'll love it!"-Noticing that Wendy had been gone for a while, Halsey started to feel uneasy. She stood up to go look for her.Just then, Stanley called out, "Bebe."Hals
Wendy stood there, her eyes locked on Stanley.Stanley gave her a cold glance before turning his attention to Jessica, his voice gentle. "Let's head back."He had just acknowledged it—and he did it in front of Wendy.Jessica smiled sweetly, knowing that Wendy's heart was likely burning with a mix of envy, jealousy, and resentment. Wendy was probably suffering right now.A country bumpkin, still thinking to compete with her? Dream on!"Alright."Jessica wrapped her arm around Stanley's, turning to leave with him.Just as they were about to walk away, Wendy's clear voice rang out behind them. "Stanley."She was calling after him.Stanley stopped in his tracks, turning around.Jessica smiled. "Wendy, you two are divorced now. Are you still hung up on Stanley? Want to try to win him back?"Wendy stood tall in the corridor, her posture straight and unyielding. She didn't acknowledge Jessica, her eyes, clear as ever, focused on Stanley's distinguished face. She spoke, her voice
The highly anticipated pairing had already stolen all the attention, overshadowing everything else.Jessica's heart burned with jealousy, consumed by a deep resentment toward this genius freshman.At that moment, Sienna suddenly exclaimed, "Look, Wendy's here!"Stanley, holding a glass of wine, wasn't in the best of moods tonight. He was indifferent to everything around him. But when he heard Sienna, he looked up, his sharp, handsome eyes glimmering.He saw Wendy.Tonight, Wendy wore a sleeveless black dress. The tight fit accentuated her slender waist, and the puffed-out skirt made her long, white legs stand out even more. As she entered, she immediately caught the attention of many. Her long, jet-black hair flowed smoothly down her back, and a sweater hung casually from her arms. From his angle, he could only see her profile, which made her already delicate features look even smaller. Her pale, translucent skin gave her an ethereal, almost otherworldly quality.That aura of h
Sienna immediately chimed in, "Jessica's right! The genius freshman could be ugly and overweight. Your illusion will shatter once you see her."Jessica and Sienna both started poking fun at the genius freshman, trying to stir the pot.Benny, however, was unfazed. "I've seen my fair share of pretty faces, and they don't interest me. Even if this genius freshman isn't anything special, my feelings wouldn't change. Marrying her would improve my family's genes."Jessica and Sienna were stunned by his response.It seemed Benny's mind was set on this genius freshman, and there was no pulling him back now.The other rich kids around them chuckled. "Benny, are you even sure if she's single?"Benny had no idea who the genius freshman was. A while ago, he had tagged her in a group chat, asking if she had a boyfriend. Her response had simply been, [Get lost.]He immediately pulled out his phone. "I'll text her right now."The other rich kids were excited. "Hurry up, hurry up!"Benny open
Wendy said seriously, "As medical practitioners, we must be meticulous. A tiny mistake can lead to disastrous consequences."At that moment, Cyril stood while Wendy sat. Despite the height difference between them, her slender, graceful back was perfectly straight. Her intelligent, clear eyes were full of earnestness as she gave Cyril a lesson, almost as though she were the teacher and he the student.Cyril, speechless, was taken aback. Was she teaching him? Did she really think she was his teacher? He had only one teacher, and that was Dr. Ceylan!Cyril couldn't believe what was happening. He was about to reprimand Wendy, but before he could say anything, she spoke up again. "Alright, Cyril, you can go now."Cyril was stunned. She was calling him by his first name again.The interaction left him speechless. He simply turned and walked away.-Back in the office, Cyril was fuming. There was no way he could have been wrong!He immediately grabbed the "Classic of Herbal Medic
Stanley's deep voice rang out. "Mr. Suarez, are you saying that the genius freshman is attending the Summit Academic Forum?"What?The phrase "genius freshman" struck Jessica like a lightning bolt, instantly capturing her attention. Was the mysterious and aloof genius freshman about to make an appearance?"She's actually been in Hovendale this whole time," Dave replied. "Unfortunately, you've never met her. She'll be attending the Summit Academic Forum, so you two will finally get to meet. Please make sure to find some time to attend the event."Stanley nodded. "Alright."After they hung up, Jessica was in shock. "Stanley, the genius freshman has been in Hovendale all this time? Who is she?"Hovendale's circle wasn't that large, and she had never heard of this brilliant young woman before.Jessica felt uneasy about the existence of this genius freshman. Stanley, equally unaware, didn't know who she was either. Thinking about the freshman's mysterious, cool demeanor, Stanley
Before Zayn could continue, Stanley interrupted in a low voice, "We're divorced. There's no need to update me on her situation."Zayn paused for a moment, then nodded respectfully. "Understood." He turned and left the room.At that moment, Jessica walked out. She had overheard everything Stanley had said. A smile curled on her lips as she approached him. She knew Stanley's decisive nature. Once he had divorced Wendy, he wanted nothing more to do with her.Now, his heart and mind were entirely focused on Jessica. She was his one true love.Jessica stepped closer and wrapped her arms around Stanley's waist from behind.Stanley didn't need to look to know it was her. His gaze shifted from the window, and he lowered his eyes to the small hands that had latched onto his waist.Jessica's right wrist had mostly healed, but there was still a scar, a reminder of the injury that ruined its beauty.As a dancer, she was someone who valued her appearance deeply.Stanley gently took her ri
After the divorce, Stanley and Wendy never contacted each other again. This was the first time he had heard any news about her.It turned out she had fallen seriously ill.Jessica immediately grinned, her red lips curling with a mix of pride, pity, and mockery. "I never would have guessed that Wendy was so deeply in love with Stanley."Trish joined in, mocking Wendy as well. "With her background, she'll never find another man like Mr. Hawk. It's honestly a little sad when you think about it."Jessica tilted her head, gazing at Stanley with a playful pout. "Stanley, now that your ex-wife's sick, don't you think you should give her a call and comfort her?"Stanley remained expressionless, his handsome face still as composed as ever. He looked at Jessica. "Sure. I'll call her right now."He made a move to reach for his phone.Jessica's expression instantly changed. "You wouldn't dare!"Stanley smirked. "Then why did you suggest it?"He was just teasing her—he had no intention of