Irene could not hide in time, and Isaac saw her trying to blink back her tears.There was a twitch in his gaze, though soon he regained his calm. "Are you upset?"Irene wiped her own face firmly and said stubbornly, "I'm not.""Oh." Isaac turned and headed to the shower, leaving Irene clenching her fists and absolutely frustrated by his coldness.Throwing away all pretenses right then, she ran in front of him just to snap, "You don't believe me, do you? Fine! I'll cheat on you right now!"As she tried to run away, Isaac grabbed her by the wrist and chuckled. "You're going to cheat on me?"Irene struggled. "I'll do it—you don't believe me anyway! Then you would actually have a reason to get upset with me!"Isaac pulled her a little firmly then, and she immediately fell over his chest. He then held her tightly with one hand while he lifted her chin with the other, and she could cry from the pain just then. Struggling even harder just then, she complained, "Let me go…"Isaac l
Irene pursed her lips—she was aware that she should be staying home right now to take care of Tommy.However, Stephen Carr would be examining Layla Gooding today, and there is a possibility that he would operate on her. Irene herself might be allowed to watch, and it would allow her to find out her secret. That was why she must go to the hospital today."I'll try to come home earlier, okay?" She was not great in trying to appeal, and actually came off stiff.Isaac was speechless, so she wrapped her arms around his neck and cajoled, "Pretty please?"Even though it was not her best skill, Isaac enjoyed her trying to cozy up to him.Smiling faintly, he said, "Get home by five.""Home by five, got it.""Good." Isaac finally agreed to it, and Irene gave him a peck on the lips. "I'll have something to tell you by then.""Okay, and stay away from Harvey Gooding," Isaac told her."Yes, definitely," Irene promised—it was not easy to calm Isaac down, and she was not about to upset
Layla saw the stunned expression on Irene's face."Is everything alright?" She peeked at the CT scan as she spoke, but she did not understand what she was looking at.As a doctor, however, Irene did—there was a distinct nail-sized object in Layla's hippocampus. Irene could tell from both position and the imaging that it was no tumor.Irene then asked, "What are your headaches like? Do they last for a while, or are they just short episodes on each occasion?"Layla thought about it. "I don't know… I think it just happens whenever I try to remember, but I tend not to remember anything, and my head will hurt briefly if I try to focus too hard. There are occasions when it lasts, especially recently—not even medication helps."Irene seemed to realize something then, and after another glance at the CT imaging, she said, "Let's go back now."Layla nodded, but asked again, "I thought you look a little serious just now. Did my condition deteriorate?" Irene shook her head. "No, you don'
Irene turned toward the door to find Mick glaring at her with crimson eyes—Layla, who was standing beside him, was stunned by his reaction too."Mick…"Layla put an arm around Mick's, and he suddenly realized that he was overagitated—Layla was still with him.However, Irene could see that he was panicking. Why? What was he trying to hide?Layla asked mildly, "What got you upset, Mick?""No, I just misheard," Mick quickly tried to assure her. "Did I scare you?"Layla shook her head. "I'm fine, but you don't look too good.""I'm just thirsty. Could you get me something?" Mick said."Okay," Layla replied.Having diverted her away with ease, Mick turned to level a vicious glare at Irene. "You're Isaac Jefferson's wife?"Irene took a step back, and kept a hand on Stephen's desk to keep her balance. "Yes."Mick narrowed his eyes and started to approach her, but Stephen quickly stepped in between them. "Calm down, Mick."Mick simply shoved him away. "You did this on purpose, did
And right now, whatever it was in Layla's brain must be extracted, or it would kill her.Mick's intent to silence Irene was a clear sign of his guilt—that Layla was in fact Yvaine Lynd. He must have renamed her after himself, but was sentimental enough about her old name to use another name that meant 'night'. Irene understood most of it, but not about how Mick made the switch without the Jeffersons noticing!Keeping herself calm, she stood off against Mick and retorted, "Even if I didn't say it, did you think you could hide your secret forever? You have two choices right now—the first is not to do anything about that thing in Layla's mind, and keep her amnesiac even if it risks her life. The other is to extract it, though that means she would regain her memories and you won't be able to lie your way out once she remembers. But I wonder—would she hate you more if she finds out that you killed her daughter-in-law? Unless you choose to do nothing, of course."Mick stumbled right the
Mick started to panic right then—why was Isaac showing up here, and with Layla at that? Seizing the moment as Mick let his guard down, Irene rushed to Isaac's side and told him quietly, "That woman is Yvaine Lynd."She knew that she just had to say her name, and Isaac would understand.Isaac lowered his gaze at her, surprised that she would say something like that.She knew that he was investigating Layla?However, now was not the time for the questions—he was here because James Cross had tracked Layla to this hospital. After running into her on the walkway, they followed her here.On the other hand, Mick was paranoid that Isaac had come to take Layla away, and kept her behind his back while glaring at Isaac warily. "What do you want?"Irene was just about to speak when Isaac raised a hand to stop her, while gesturing for James to pass the DNA test results from before to Mick."What's this?" Mick was clearly reluctant to take it, let alone look.James shoved it at him again,
"How did you know?" That question had been nagging Isaac for a while.Irene explained, "I saw Layla Gooding's photo on your desk, and she looked just like Stephen Carr's photo of a special patient. Luckily, I have Stephen's trust, and I managed to make contact with her. My guess was that you're investigating her, so I wanted to help you and find out what's her deal."Isaac's gaze softened right then. She had insisted on coming to the hospital to investigate Layla—she was helping him in secret without him knowing. Reaching out to take her dainty hand in his, he gave it a squeeze and said, "Thank you."He had actually misunderstood that she was so obsessed with work she could ignore Tommy's illness—but it was not entirely the case.Irene smiled. "We're married—you don't have to thank me. Also, there's not much to worry about, since your mother's memories would return once that thing in her brain is taken out. She'll definitely remember you… also, I was going to tell you tonight
Mrs. Watson said, "I don't know—it's from a courier, and I didn't open it."On the other hand, out of curiosity, Irene picked up the invitation and opened it…Only to find Zachary Slate's name on it.Her eyes widened. "Zachary is getting married already?"She then checked the bride's name and saw that it was 'Ember Lindt'. Was that the woman who got into bed with Zachary? Irene's face fell at the very thought. How many days had it been since Zachary broke up with Lulu? And he was getting married already?How terrible would Lulu feel if she were to find out?She heaved a sigh.Isaac walked up to her then and read the invitation but did not comment. He and Zachary were close, but he would not ask about Zachary's private affairs, and would rather Irene did not either."He's an adult. He knows what he's doing—you don't have to worry about him."Despite understanding that, Irene said, "Yes, it's Zachary's marriage and his choice. No one can interfere… but I just feel bad for
Soon after the wedding, Mr. Fowler proposed for Stan to work at his company to get used to the work over there.He was worried as he did not have much time left, and it would not do if he was gone before the proper arrangements were made.Still, Stan returned to Franconia with Isaac and his family, sorting out things at work and finishing every task he had on hand.While Isaac used to have a lot of free time with Stan around, he was just slightly busier after Stan left. After all, no company should operate in a way that losing a single person would stall all their operations.And after a week, Stan sorted out all the remaining tasks he had in Franconia and returned to Zidonia to start work at the Fowlers' family business.While Stan had property in Zidonia too, he moved into the Fowlers' mansion, but not as a live-in son-in-law. He was simply aware of Mr. Fowler's illness, and Rea wanted to spend more time with her parents.And as the son-in-law, he was obliged to do that much.
Despite feeling wistful, Mr. Fowler eventually passed Rea's hand to Stan. "I hope you will both cherish each other from now on."Rea told him, "We will."Thereafter, it was the usual proceedings of a wedding, with exchange of rings and vows, the wedding speech, and the luncheon!Though everything went smoothly, Mrs. Fowler could not help shedding tears.She was pleased that her daughter was finally getting married, especially since she was looking forward to this.But now that Rea really did marry, she was worried that her life might get difficult and unhappy.Such was the worrisome nature of mothers.-Later, Stan led Rea to Isaac's table.They were all acquainted, but Stan introduced everyone once again to reacquaint them with Rea.After all, she was no longer Zachary's friend's cousin now, but Stan's wife.Erin was grinning from ear to ear. "Congratulations.""Thank you." Rea smiled in return."Congrats," Baby said, imitating the adults.Rea reached out to stroke his c
Zachary said, "I heard you sealed the deal with Rea Fowler, and her family is preparing for your wedding."Stan smiled. "I'm the look of success—getting a girl couldn't be simpler. See? I'm getting married already.""Well, I guess we're all taken now," Erin said.Tommy poked his head up just then. "Congratulations, Uncle Stan.""Thank you." Stan chuckled, patting his head."Also, I heard that you're marrying into the Fowler family?" Zachary asked.Everyone turned to stare at Stan in shock, but it was understandable.Stan was not that modest that he would have to go that far—he had money and was successful enough to afford a wife.Still, Zachary—who knew the Fowlers—suggested, "To be fair, they do need someone to take care of the family business…"-Either way, it meant that Irene's family would be delaying their return trip to Franconia.After all, none of them had expected to attend Stan's wedding so soon after Zachary's.Stan himself did not expect that either, as he had
"What's the problem? We've already slept together," Rea said as she put her clothes on.She frowned as Stan was still on the bed and not moving. "What, are you going to stay in my bed forever?""What am I supposed to wear?" Stan shrugged. "You haven't brought my clothes here.""I'll get it for you."Rea remembered his suitcase then and hurried downstairs to bring it up."Wear whatever you like. I'll be waiting downstairs," she said and hurried away.Stan got out of bed and put on a suit—it was only right to dress formally when it came to discussing marriage.After cleaning up and heading downstairs, he found Rea sandwiched by her parents.Stan had no idea if she had already mentioned it, but both Mr. and Mrs. Fowler were both staring at him, leaving him further tense.Clearing his throat, Stan began, "Excuse me, but—""Yes, we agree to you marrying our daughter.""You mean marrying into our family," Rea corrected them.Everyone else was staring at her before asking all at o
If Rea asked her parents now, they would only get sad, and life would become difficult for everyoneWhat should she do to make them happy?Right, she could get married! Her parents would definitely be pleased. As for the choice of bridegroom, did she not have one readily available here?If Stan could pretend to be her boyfriend, he could definitely be her husband too.They could fake their marriage if they had to!Putting the medical file back where she found it, she wobbled up to her feet and left the room.Stan had yet to step out of the bathroom when she returned, so she sat on the bed and waited.After a while, Stan stepped out with a towel around his waist and paused when he saw Rea sitting there. "Where are my clothes?" He asked, presuming that Rea had forgotten since there was nothing on the bed or the table. "My suitcase is still in your car trunk."Rea turned toward him. "Let's get married."Stan was left speechless for a moment and soon chuckled, "Did you forge
Mrs. Fowler smacked her daughter, but while Rea thought she was angry, she said instead, "Just do your best."Rea's mind was blown—were her parents bewitched? They were completely different from before! A long time ago, her parents had used to tell her that she did not have to marry as long as she was happy.But later on, they had persistently sent her on blind dates… and now, they were telling her to seduce a man?Touching her mother's forehead, Rea asked, "Are you sick?"Mrs. Fowler slapped her hand off. "Your dad and I are leaving now.""Yeah." Mr. Fowler nodded. "The chauffeur is waiting."Rea walked them to the door and watched as their car left before returning inside.She did not go upstairs since Stan was asleep, and she would be bored—she was the type who just could not sit still.However, it was inappropriate if she left since that would leave nobody home.In her boredom, she thought of pranking Stan. She headed upstairs to find him asleep, and soundly at that.Ca
Unable to argue against her parents, Rea said, "Fine, fine. Whatever you say."Mrs. Fowler smiled. "Then help Stan upstairs to get some rest.""Which room?" Rea asked.Mrs. Fowler realized with a start and quickly said, "Oh, there's no bedding in the guest room… So let him stay in your room."Rea was left staring at her in shock. "When did you get so open-minded? Letting a man stay in your daughter's room?"Mrs. Fowler shrugged. "What can he do when he's drunk?""Haven't you heard of drunken fumbles?" Rea asked.Both Mr. and Mrs. Fowler shook their heads at the same time. "Nope."Rea was left totally speechless—this was just outrageous!She would think that Stan was actually their son, if it was not for the fact that they were not acquainted before.They were not like this before either—even if they were urging her to get married, they were not throwing her at a man like this!Mr. Fowler then said, "If anything happens, we'll demand that he takes responsibility and marries y
"I get it," Stan replied quietly. "I wouldn't have been upset even if you didn't explain yourself. But since you did, I forgive you."Rea's brow creased as she pursed her lips. "See? I knew it. We really shouldn't be too nice to you."While Stan was speechless, Mrs. Fowler was enthusiastically putting food on Stan's plate. "This is our family's favorite dish. Try it."Stan nodded after a bite. "It's good."Mrs. Fowler smiled, while Mr. Fowler poured him a glass of wine. "Can you hold your liquor?"Stan smiled. "More or less.""You're being humble now." Mr. Fowler smiled at him. "You're definitely a good drinker.""A little."Rea had enough right then. "Dad, Stan has work to do, and he has to return to Franconia tomorrow. You're going to make things difficult for him."Mr. Fowler smiled awkwardly. "Right…" "You think?" Rea huffed, snatching his wine away. "Everyone only gets to have one glass."Mr. Fowler glared at Rea. "Party pooper."Rea shrugged. "I'm doing this for your
Rea turned her head aside. "Then what's your hobby?"Stan did a double take and remembered his life… which was work and more work.It had been years since he took leave, and he would not get to goof off the last few days if it had not been for Zachary's wedding.Hobby? He certainly did not have anything like that.Now that he thought about it, his life was boring and monotonous, and he did not have anyone very close.That was why he wanted a kind, understanding wife to care and offer him company while he took care of her needs.When he looked up at Rea, he clearly felt that she was not for him—he needed someone to take care of him, but with her, he would be busy taking care of her instead."You're looking at me weirdly," Rea suddenly said."How so?" Stan asked.Rea moved closer, looking him in the eyes and asking solemnly, "Don't tell me—you've fallen for me?""You don't just suffer from a flawed personality—you're narcissistic too."Stan pursed his lips and checked the tim