Jessica smiled, her heart filled with sweetness. She leaned into Stanley's embrace, then tilted her delicate, radiant face to look up at him. "I knew it—you can't bear to let me go. You would never leave me."Stanley, as Hovendale's wealthiest man, exuded an air of elegance and strength that could dictate the rise and fall of fortunes. He fulfilled every fantasy she had about what a man should be.But three years ago, when he had been in a car accident and declared a vegetative state, with doctors pronouncing he would never wake again, how could she waste the prime of her youth on a man like that?So, she had fled.Who could have predicted that Wendy, who married him in her place, would somehow help Stanley wake up within three years?Even now, Jessica didn't understand how Stanley recovered. Could Wendy's fortune be aligned perfectly with his?Doctors called it a medical miracle.So, Jessica returned. She knew Stanley loved her—he would never truly abandon her.Stanley looke
Stanley's genius junior had directly rejected his friend request!At that moment, Zayn walked in with a cup of coffee. When he saw the screen on Stanley's phone, he was stunned. 'Did someone actually reject the CEO's friend request?'This was certainly something out of the ordinary."Sir, your junior is…quite special," Zayn said.Stanley scoffed. 'Special indeed.'She was the first person to reject him. If she didn't want to add him, so be it. Stanley picked up the coffee and took a sip, only to frown."Is the coffee not to your liking, sir? I'll make another cup," Zayn asked.Stanley suddenly remembered the coffee Wendy used to make—it was always just right for his taste.With an impassive expression, Stanley said, "Write an eight-figure check. That's my divorce settlement for Wendy."She said she wanted to leave with nothing, but he didn't believe it for a second. A girl from the countryside who had stopped schooling at sixteen—how would she make a living? She was just pla
No one welcomed her arrival—they were all trying to push her away.Wendy found it laughable. Her cold, sharp eyes swept across Lilian, Jessica, and Harry's faces before she yanked her arm out of Stanley's grip. A faint smile tugged at her lips as she said, "Fine, I'll leave."'Remember this—it was you who told me to go!'With that, Wendy turned and walked away.Soon after, she came back. Tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, she asked, "Mr. Hawk, do you know why I came to the naturopathy center today?"Stanley's gaze fell on her flawless, porcelain-like face, her soft peach fuzz catching the light, making her beauty even more striking.Stanley's expression was cold, and it was clear he didn't care. His voice was harsh and distant. "Wendy, this is getting annoying."Wendy stepped forward with a dazzling smile. "I'm here to help you find a naturopath." She pulled a small card out of her pocket and handed it to him. "Here, this is for you."Stanley looked down at the
At the Crone family villa…Night had fallen. Lilian sat in the living room in a silk nightgown, waiting for Harry.In her younger years, she had been a stunning southern beauty, cherished by Jerry, who spoiled her to the point where she never had to lift a finger for household chores. Later, she remarried Harry, who inherited Jerry's business empire and expanded it further. Her role as a wealthy wife was well-established, and with her meticulous self-care, she still exuded charm despite her age.The villa's main door opened as a maid let Harry in.Lilian's face lit up with joy. She rushed to greet him, helping him remove his suit jacket. "Honey, why are you home so late?"Unlike Jerry's honest and reserved demeanor, Harry had always been dashing and flirtatious in his youth. Now, as a CEO, he carried an air of authority that made Lilian utterly infatuated with him."I had a business dinner," Harry replied casually.As he spoke, Lilian caught a familiar scent on his suit—perfume
Stanley caught Wendy in his arms as she stumbled into him. His sharp gaze flickered down at her, displeasure evident in his tone. "Wendy, what are you doing back here?"Wendy hadn't expected him to come home. He was dressed in a sleek black suit, tailored perfectly to his tall frame, still carrying the crisp chill of the winter night on the expensive fabric.She instinctively leaned closer, seeking solace in his cool, composed presence."Stanley, help me..." she whispered, her voice trembling.Before she could say more, Stanley pushed her back gently but firmly, his brows furrowing. "What's wrong with you?"Wendy hesitated, biting her lip. She couldn't believe she had almost begged him for help. "I've been drugged," she admitted softly.'Drugged?'Stanley's expression darkened. This woman was always in trouble."Wait here," he commanded.Striding to the window, he pulled out his phone and made a call. His tall figure was framed by the night sky, one hand loosening his tie with
Upon seeing the name 'Jessica' on the screen, Stanley came to his senses.He was in disarray, his clothes half-wet, marks from Wendy's kisses all over him, and his breathing uneven. Just moments ago, he had been aroused.He was actually aroused by Wendy!Stanley didn't like Wendy. He attributed everything to the fact that he was just a man who couldn't resist the temptation of a stunning woman.Pressing the button, Stanley answered the call. He felt guilty toward Jessica—so guilty that his voice carried an unusual softness. "Jessica."From Jessica's end came the sound of heavy metal music. Her voice was sweet as she said, "Stanley, I'm at a bar right now.""No drinking. Have your assistant get you some milk," Stanley said. "Got it. My assistant always listens to you. Stanley, come join us. I'm waiting for you," Jessica responded. Stanley turned to leave.But just then, a small hand reached out and grabbed his sleeve.He turned around to see Wendy, completely drenched. Her w
Wendy heard a buzzing noise. Did Stanley just suggest finding her a man or two?He had made his choice.Without hesitation, he had chosen Jessica.It felt like a blade had pierced Wendy's heart, twisting deeper and shredding her to pieces. Trembling, she struggled to regain her voice. "Stanley, I'm still…your wife..."Stanley, now immaculate in a black shirt and matching trousers, had reverted to his usual composed and aloof demeanor, as if the chaos of moments before had never happened. His voice was cold and detached as he extended something to her."This is for you," he said.Wendy glanced down. It was an eight-figure check.Above her, his magnetic, unfeeling voice could be heard. "Wendy, this is your divorce settlement. Let's end this."Stanley placed the check on the bathroom counter and strode out, leaving Wendy frozen in place.He was going to Jessica.Just like her mother had done years ago.Wendy's eyes turned red, tears welling up until they spilled over. Once ag
Between Jessica and Wendy, Stanley would always choose Jessica.Wendy was never her match.Stanley cast a cold glance at the man before him, his thin lips spitting out a single icy word, "Leave."Terrified, the man fled without daring to look back.Stanley's sharp gaze lowered to Jessica, and he pulled his arm free from her grasp. "Jessica, have you had enough of this nonsense?"Jessica stiffened, her expression freezing. "Are you scolding me? If I hadn't caused a scene, you'd be in bed with Wendy right now!"Stanley remained expressionless. "So you drugged yourself?"Jessica, long spoiled by Stanley, lifted her chin haughtily. "Yes, Stanley. If you dare touch Wendy, I'll make sure another man touches me!"Stanley's face darkened, his mood oppressive enough to chill the air. Without another word, he turned and walked away.He left.He didn't even try to coax her.As Stanley strode through the bar, his striking good looks and commanding presence drew every woman's gaze. They
He had left.But Wendy wasn't thinking about his departure. What bothered her more was what he had done—how could he just toss that ruby necklace into the trash like it was nothing?That ruby was worth over a million!Even though he was rich, he shouldn't just throw away something so expensive!Without wasting a second, Wendy rushed to the trash can, reaching in to grab the precious bag. Fortunately, it wasn't dirty or damaged—how tragic it would have been if it had been ruined!Back in the dorm, Wendy sat at her vanity and opened the ornate box. The ruby and diamond necklace inside shimmered brilliantly under the light, stunning her with its breathtaking beauty.Stanley had always had impeccable taste. After all, he was born into a family of privilege, a high-born heir with a refined sense of style. Anything he chose would undoubtedly be exceptional.Though Wendy was wealthy herself, she rarely indulged in things like this. This was also the first time Stanley had given her a g
Wendy froze, unsure of what he meant. Wasn't the ruby necklace meant for Jessica? Why was he asking if she liked it? Could it be that he bought two—one for Jessica and one for her? It wasn't entirely impossible. He had the money, after all.Wendy found it almost laughable. No matter his intentions, she wasn't going to keep second-guessing him or chasing after him anymore. That night on the highway had already settled everything between them—they no longer owed each other. She put her phone away without replying. Just then, Jessica walked over with a bright smile on her face. "Wendy, you're here too?"Her mood was clearly great, likely because she'd heard Stanley was giving her a ruby necklace. She was someone who loved luxury, and knowing about that gift had clearly made her day.Wendy nodded. "Just came by to hang out.""Stanley's planning a trip with me and Sienna to a resort in a couple of days. It's famous for its hot springs, and we're going to relax in the baths.
Halsey pulled Wendy up from the couch. "Wendy, wake up! What were you doing? You look completely wiped out."Wendy rubbed her sleepy eyes and mumbled, "I just want to sleep a little longer.""Sleep? No way! Get up now. Let's hit the bar." Halsey dragged Wendy to the bar, and before long, they were inside a luxurious private room with a few familiar faces: Jessica, Benny, Sienna, and some rich heirs.Benny, lounging on the sofa, spoke up. "Jessica, Stanley's been on a business trip for two days, right? Is he coming back tonight?"After that night, Stanley left for his trip, and Wendy hadn't seen him since. Naturally, they hadn't been in contact either. According to the unspoken agreement, after that night, they owed each other nothing—but they had one more secret between them.Jessica smiled slyly. "Yeah, Stanley's coming back tonight.""The other night, Mr. Hawk took his car on the highway, right? I heard he was speeding like he was in a race, and the camera caught him, so he g
Stanley was angry now—angry that she had said this was the last time and that he shouldn't come looking for her after this. Wendy's soft red lips moved toward him, but he impatiently pushed her away. However, her small hand, which had been resting on his shoulder, moved to wrap around his neck, pulling herself closer to him. "Stanley, don't push me away!"Her clear, shimmering eyes locked onto his, her voice soft but firm, with a hint of a playful lilt. The challenge in her tone made his muscles tighten."Same condition," she continued. "This is our secret. I won't tell Jessica."She kissed him again. Stanley's narrowed eyes darkened, blood rushing to his face. A man who had tasted that kind of pleasure once was like a wild animal, occasionally yearning for and remembering that feeling. Her boldness, her clinginess, easily sparked the fire within him.He gave up resisting, and as she pressed forward, he took control, his large hand gripping her smooth, fragrant shoulder.
The tinted windows of the luxurious car allowed those inside to see out, but no one could peer inside. Wendy couldn't see Stanley, but she could feel the weight of his cold, dark gaze, fixated on her and Nathan. Why had he suddenly shown up to find her?Wendy turned to Nathan. "Nathan, it's getting late. I think I should head back to my dorm." Nathan grinned. "Alright, I'll come find you next time."He got into his Ferrari, and with a loud roar, the sports car sped off.Wendy watched Nathan leave before she walked toward the Rolls-Royce Phantom. She reached for the backseat door and slid inside.The Rolls-Royce glided smoothly down the road, the luxurious interior illuminated by the neon lights of the night. Stanley's hands, long and defined, gripped the steering wheel. The soft glow from the streetlights outside flickered across his handsome face, casting shadows and creating an air of mystery, as if his face were part of a classic black-and-white film.Wendy broke the sile
Stanley opened his social media app and saw the latest post Nathan had shared. It was a photo taken at Clavendale University's sports stadium. The people were out of view, but their shadows were visible. One shadow was delicate and graceful, the other handsome and striking—obviously Wendy and Nathan. Nathan had captioned it, [The best birthday gift.] The post immediately attracted attention, and the wealthy heirs couldn't help but comment.[Nathan, it's your birthday today. Why are you still outside?] [Why are you two hanging out on campus? The presidential suite is already waiting for you!][You guys don't get it! Nathan's staying in the girls' dorm tonight.] [Dating a college girl—now that's exciting.]Stanley read through the comments, his throat tightening. His mind wandered back to Wendy's dorm, to the little bed with the heart-shaped prints—he had slept there not long ago. He and Wendy had shared that bed. Would Nathan be sleeping there tonight, too? Stanley lowe
Stanley raised his hand and gently pulled his arm away from Jessica's grip. His voice was cold and indifferent as he said, "I've had some drinks, so I can't drive. I'm heading back to the office now. You can go home by yourself."Zayn pulled up with the Rolls Royce, and Stanley climbed into the car before it drove off.Jessica stood there, alone. She wasn't upset; on the contrary, she was rather pleased with how things were going.Just then, Sienna walked over, stomping her feet in frustration. "Jessica, can you believe that Wendy actually wrote a love letter to seduce Nathan? She's so shameless!"The love letter wasn't Wendy's doing—it was something Jessica had Benny prepare. But she hadn't told Sienna that. This was all part of her plan—getting Wendy and Nathan together while also fueling Sienna's hatred for Wendy."Sienna, Wendy doesn't deserve Nathan. But you know how men are—they always want what they can't have. Trust me, it won't be long before Nathan gets tired of her," Je
"Stanley." Jessica finally spoke up, breaking the tension. "You don't even like Wendy, and we both know you two are bound to divorce eventually. But now Wendy has found her happiness, and it's with Nathan. Wendy managed to win over someone that even the richest debutantes couldn't. We should be happy for her, shouldn't we, Stanley?"Stanley's cold eyes briefly narrowed, his gaze sharpening at her words.At that moment, the attendants brought over the cake and lit the candles. "It's time for the birthday boy to make a wish and blow out the candles."Nathan blew out the candles and then began slicing the cake. The first piece, of course, was meant for the birthday boy.But Nathan took a piece of the cake and held it up to Wendy's lips instead.Wendy glanced at him before opening her mouth to eat. Just as she was about to take a bite, Nathan pulled his hand away, teasing her.Seeing the playful grin on Nathan's face, Wendy knew just how to play the part of the affectionate gir
Nathan didn't even glance at the gifts from the others, but when it came to the one from Wendy, he seemed genuinely interested. "I'm curious too," he said with a smile.Benny casually placed the gift bag on the coffee table, and Nathan reached in to pull out the contents.Wendy's heart sank as she realized the gift might disappoint Nathan. She nervously said, "Nathan, I came in a bit of a rush, so I just bought you—"She was about to say "a wallet" but stopped abruptly when Nathan pulled out not a wallet, but a letter.Wendy froze."Nathan, the pretty lady wrote you a letter? Come on, read it out loud for us!" someone urged.Nathan held up the letter and read it out loud. "Nathan, today's your birthday, and I wanted to give you a special gift. Honestly, from the moment I saw you, I've fallen for you. I promise to be your girlfriend. Let's make this official."Wendy felt her heart stop. She didn't write this letter. Her gift had been swapped!She recalled how Benny had hand