Imogen gritted her teeth, her gaze cold and tinged with simmering anger she struggled to suppress. She turned away again.Tears welled up in Ethan's eyes. He stood still like a marionette cut loose from its string.Scarlett approached him and gently linked her arm with his. Her voice was filled with compassion as she whispered, "Darling, think of our child and me. Stop clinging to the delusion. She's already married."Ethan could no longer contain himself. He buried his face in his hands, turned away, and leaned against the wall, sobbing.Scarlett stood behind him, her eyes welling with tears as she watched, her fist clenched and trembling.…After leaving the hospital, Imogen hailed a taxi. Feeling dejected, she retrieved her phone from her bag and checked her message. It was a reply from the HR manager at Star Enterprise, Skylar."Ms. Kingsley, if today doesn't work for you, we can reschedule for tomorrow or the day after. Any weekday is suitable for your interview."Imogen s
Jasper felt flustered and hastily attempted to deflect. "I could tell something was bothering you, and I figured it might have been related to the interview."Imogen wasn't convinced by his explanation, which seemed full of holes. She questioned, "Maybe I'm just in a bad mood from a botched interview. How do you know I didn't even attend?"Jasper fell silent, leaving Imogen staring at him, clearly baffled. He quickly shifted gears, making his way to the kitchen. "You haven't eaten dinner yet, have you? Let me whip something up for you.""Jay," Imogen called after him.Jasper remained focused on cooking. "What are you in the mood for? Maybe some beef?""Are you really not going to explain?""I was just guessing."Imogen let out a deep sigh, unsure of how to respond.Jasper avoided addressing the question by spending the entire evening holed up in his study, deeply immersed in work, and retiring to bed late into the night.…The next morning, Imogen arrived at Star Enterprise's
Gerald was startled. He turned abruptly, his expression alarmed as he looked at Imogen. Imogen felt uneasy under his scrutiny. She wondered what Skylar had said to Gerald to cause such a strange reaction.Just moments ago, Gerald had worn a grim expression and a visibly annoyed attitude. However, upon hearing Skylar's words, he swiftly switched to a smiling face. His round, big face lit up with a broad smile, a sharp contrast to his earlier demeanor.Gerald approached Imogen in a gentle and humble manner, speaking in a friendly tone, "You're Imogen, right?"Imogen hurriedly nodded in response. "Yes, Mr. Levingston."Gerald smiled warmly and said politely, "Please, call me Gerald. Everyone does.""Of course, Gerald," Imogen responded respectfully.Apart from his skills, Gerald earned the role of R&D director for his sharp insights. He guided Imogen to her workstation, set up a new computer for her, provided fresh office materials, and warmly introduced her to everyone.Where he h
Zoey's jaw dropped and her eyes widened at Imogen's words. She exclaimed, "What? Y-You got hired at Star Enterprise?"Imogen nodded.Zoey scoffed incredulously, "Seriously? What credentials did you use to land a job there? Are you doing janitorial work or scrubbing toilets?"Imogen hadn't expected Zoey to mock her after she had sincerely shared the news. Imogen swallowed her frustration and issued a final warning. "You don't have to concern yourself with my position. I suggest you focus on reverting to your name. Stop appropriating mine for your work.""Did they actually hire you?" Zoey asked, her displeasure evident. It was clear she harbored doubts.Imogen flashed her ID badge. Zoey couldn't make out the department, but seeing the familiar badge unsettled her. She quickly pulled Imogen into a secluded corner and hissed, "You can't be here at Star Enterprise. We can't work together. It'll ruin everything for me."Smirking disdainfully, Imogen snapped, "You ruined me years ago. H
Imogen spotted a taxi and waved energetically. It pulled over, and she wasted no time hopping in, gesturing toward the luxury vehicle ahead and urging, "Follow that car."The driver accelerated to narrow the gap.Imogen felt somewhat puzzled by her actions. That person simply bore a striking resemblance to Jasper, and she found herself surprisingly concerned about it.The taxi followed the luxury car for quite a distance. After about half an hour, the luxury car turned into a grand estate. Pulling up beside the entrance, the driver turned to Imogen. "Miss, they've gone inside. We couldn't keep up." Imogen rolled down the window, gazing at the imposing estate before her. Curiously, she asked, "Do you happen to know whose estate is this?"The driver grinned goofily. "Oh, I sure do. This is Hoffis Manor, owned by the richest man in Norvania. It's massive inside, bigger than two golf courses combined.""The home of Norvania's richest man?" Imogen was shocked, utterly bewildered. Aft
Jasper couldn't help but smile as he carefully set his jacket down and walked over to lift Imogen into his arms. Imogen let out a surprised gasp and instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck. Her heart raced, cheeks turning pink as a wave of warmth washed over her.He carried her into the house and settled on the couch, seating her on his lap. Their proximity pressed them close. A lingering air of romantic uncertainty enveloped them. Imogen felt a blush spread across her cheeks.Jasper's voice was husky and tender as he asked, "Have you had dinner?"Although Imogen hadn't eaten yet, she nodded. "Yes, I have."Jasper tucked a strand of her long hair behind her ear. He looked deeply into her flushed and lovely face, his Adam's apple bobbing. "You still haven't told me where you've been.""I interviewed successfully and started a new job. I was so thrilled that I went to visit my parents," Imogen replied.Jasper smiled warmly, his hands cradling her face gently. His voice car
Imogen retreated to her room and locked the door. Without hesitation, she booted up her computer and started searching the internet for "Jasper Morrison".The results flooded in with numerous headlines, though most were disappointingly uninformative. Yet, one title caught her attention. With a swift click, she plunged into the article and absorbed its content eagerly.After reading the information, she was completely taken aback. It turned out that the CEO of Star Enterprise went by the name Jasper Morrison. Strangely, there was hardly any online coverage of the company's CEO, not even a single photograph.Imogen's unease deepened with each passing moment. She swiftly grabbed her phone and dialed Eloise's number.After a few rings, Eloise answered. She held the phone to her ear and greeted, "Hey, Imogen!""Aunt Eloise, I need to talk to you about Ash. He—"Imogen's words faltered as Eloise interrupted apologetically. "Imogen, I'm so sorry. I'm so scatterbrained. I forgot to tell
Jasper felt his heart sink as he stood there, rooted to the spot, his intense gaze meeting Imogen's eyes blazing with anger. Momentarily speechless, he slipped his hands into his sweatpants pockets, lowered his head, and sighed. Imogen suppressed her frustration, studying him cautiously before calmly asking, "Are you still searching for the right words, or do you plan to continue deceiving me?"Jasper lifted his head and held her gaze firmly. "I'm Jasper Morrison."Imogen's demeanor turned colder. "I'm fully aware. It's written on the marriage certificate.""I deceived you. My real name isn't Asher, and I'm not the guy Eloise arranged for you to meet," Jasper said."Why would you pretend to be the guy Aunt Eloise set me up with?" Imogen demanded, her voice laced with anger.Jasper felt a surge of unease. He extended his hand, wanting to reach for Imogen's hand to explain himself. Yet, Imogen cautiously stepped back, swiftly tucking her hands behind her, and eyeing his hand war
Jasper became concerned as Imogen placed her hand over her heart. He asked, "Are you experiencing any chest pains? Have you consulted a doctor? I can take you for a check-up."Imogen reassured him, gently holding his arm. "Jasper, I'm fine. I'm just trying to figure out how to balance my future family and career."Jasper smiled knowingly, gently patting her head before pulling her into an embrace. He recognized her uniqueness—her drive to pursue her career and showcase her skills and talents. The thought of being a stay-at-home mother or merely a trophy wife held no appeal for her whatsoever.Holding her close, Jasper murmured, "Imogen, have you forgotten about your husband's financial prowess?"Imogen couldn't suppress a chuckle.Jasper reassured her of his commitment, "As long as you're on board, I can arrange a driver to drive you to work, an assistant to handle all your tasks, and you won't have to worry about anything. When you return home, there will be maids and me to ens
After returning from her journey across the globe, Imogen headed straight to the hospital. During her travels, she started noticing subtle changes in her body—nausea, fatigue, and a stronger need for rest. Her hunch was confirmed when tests revealed she was pregnant.She felt a blend of anticipation and apprehension. The idea of being pregnant raised thoughts of focusing on family life and raising children. Yet, she valued her career and was steadily demonstrating her skills. She wasn't ready to give it up just yet.When Imogen arrived home and stepped through the front door, she found Gregory and Carol were there. They had just returned from their trip as well, bringing back gifts. "Hi, Mom, Dad," Imogen greeted them.Still excited about their travels, Gregory and Carol eagerly recounted their adventures to Jasper.When Jasper heard Imogen's voice, he quickly stood and walked over to her, taking her hand. "Imogen, I woke up early and didn't see you around. Where did you go?"
Jasper thought the idea was brilliant and agreed, "Let's plan our route and leave next week."Imogen gently pushed him back, her hands on his chest. "Sure, but let me get up first. We'll map out our journey, set a schedule, and go on a trip for our wedding."Jasper took her wrists and lifted them above the pillow. "Let's discuss this tomorrow. I have some pressing matters to attend to at the moment."Imogen was about to respond when Jasper leaned in and kissed her deeply. Their lips intertwined with passion.…A week later, Imogen received another call from Yulia's lawyer, who conveyed Yulia's apologies and expressed her desire for Imogen's forgiveness. Yulia also requested Imogen to intervene with Nathan on her behalf.Imogen decided to ignore the request. She believed in the fairness of the law. It reminded her of Zoey, who had fraudulently claimed her degree and ended up in prison at Jasper's behest.As for Yulia, she had orchestrated attacks on Gregory, caused Carol to lose
Imogen's heart raced as she slowly hugged Jasper, her voice bashful yet resolute. "Jasper, you'll always have a place in my heart."Jasper tensed slightly, his senses on high alert. He met her eyes. A glint of anticipation sparked in his gaze as he eagerly murmured, "Say it one more time. Say it—""I love you, Jasper," Imogen said gently.Jasper's eyes immediately filled with tears as he held Imogen tightly, his body shaking. Overwhelmed by emotion, he could only whisper her name into her ear. "Imogen… Imogen…""Do you love me?" Imogen asked, her voice tinged with shyness.Jasper frowned. "I do love you. Haven't you always known?""I still want to hear it," Imogen said."I love you. I love you with all my heart," Jasper declared, gazing at her with intense passion and unwavering resolve.Feeling a bit stiff from his tight hug, Imogen gently pushed him away. "I love you, too, but I must get up and go to work.""Not today," Jasper responded, scooping and carrying her back to bed
"If it's a gift, why not accept it?" Mila whispered.Gregory quickly took the check, looking unsure of his next move.Once his money was accepted, Oakley assumed the issue was settled. He took Yulia's hand and began to leave the ward, saying, "Well, I'll leave with Yulia for now."Still feeling resentful, Yulia glanced back and shot Imogen a glare as they departed.The ward fell silent. Feeling uneasy, Gregory and Carol exchanged anxious glances."Nate, we can't go easy on them," Mila whispered.Nathan smiled knowingly. He took Mila's hand, gently caressed it, and said quietly, "Don't worry. I'll ensure our in-laws get the justice they deserve."Mila nodded, feeling reassured. Gregory and Carol, who were listening nearby, felt deeply moved and grateful.Since Gregory was injured and confined to bed, the meeting between Jasper's and Imogen's parents ended earlier than expected. After saying goodbye to their parents, Jasper and Imogen headed home. On their way home, Jasper felt
Yulia was renowned for her boldness and strong-willed nature. Aware of Oakley's wealth, influence, and dual reputation in legal and illicit circles, she feared no one and held a contemptuous attitude toward others, including senior military figures."You need to apologize to Ms. Imogen immediately," Oakley whispered urgently.Pointing at Imogen, Yulia muttered irritably, "Her? Oh, please! If anyone owes an apology, it's her to me."Oakley wiped his forehead nervously, trembling with anxiety. Everyone's expressions around them darkened visibly. Jasper suppressed his anger; his hands clenched into fists.Before he could speak, Yulia grumbled, "Jay, you blocked me before understanding everything, and then you terminated our contract. That's just too much."Mila couldn't shake her worry for Jasper. If he couldn't manage his relationship with Yulia appropriately, it could severely impact his marriage. Concerned that he might not handle it well, Mila intervened. "Ms. Gibson, please resp
Carol no longer believed the portrayal of wealthy women on television.Jasper took Imogen's hand, and they sat down on the couch together, feeling anxious. It was their parents' first meeting, and the hospital setting added to the tension. If things went wrong and their relationship soured, their future would look bleak.Imogen was particularly anxious. Her palms were growing clammy. Jasper pulled out a tissue and gently wiped her palms before reassuringly saying, "There's no need to be nervous. My parents are easygoing."Offering an awkward smile, Imogen teased him, whispering, "You seem more nervous than I am, don't you think?"Jasper chuckled but offered no reply. Dealing with Gregory and Carol was sure to be a bit daunting.Typically reserved around strangers, Nathan found it difficult to start a conversation at that moment. Meanwhile, Gregory and Carol felt apprehensive and cautious, worried that any misstep could upset the Morrisons and cause problems for Imogen.Sensing th
Mila approached them with a bouquet, smiling. "Yes, we're in the right place. We've come to visit you, our in-laws."The term "in-laws" caught Gregory off guard as he lay in the bed. Despite his injuries, he quickly propped himself up, struggling to sit upright. Carol, equally surprised, cautiously accepted the gift from Nathan's outstretched hands.Jasper and Imogen took the next elevator, so they hadn't reached the ward yet.Nathan quickly set his things down and hurried over, gently placing a reassuring hand on Gregory's shoulder. "You're injured. Don't get up. Just lie down and rest.""General Morrison, I…" Gregory's voice faltered in distress.Carol's hands trembled uncontrollably as she glanced nervously at Mila, worried that Mila and Nathan had overheard her argument with Gregory.Nathan spoke in a gentle tone, "Please, don't call me General Morrison. It sounds too formal. You both are older than me. Just call me Nathan, and I'll call you two by name in return."Mila came
In the hospital ward, Gregory had been asleep for over an hour when the nurse woke him to change his medication.After the change, Carol peeled an orange for him to eat. They shared the segments, chatting idly."Imogen really picked a good husband. Even these oranges he bought are unusually sweet," Carol said, marveling at the oranges. Gregory glanced at the orange and said, "They must be expensive.""Yes, they're sold by the piece in big supermarkets. Also, they're more expensive than beef and lamb," Carol said before eating another sweet segment.Gregory pondered for a moment. Then he curiously asked, "Someone ruined our house's floor. Do you think Jasper would help us repair it?"Carol shot him a look and replied, "Listen, don't burden Imogen with this. Don't even bring it up.""Why would it burden Imogen? With Jasper's wealth, this is nothing.""Enough," Carol snapped. "That's his business. No matter how poor we are, we shouldn't ask for what isn't ours." "You're too stu