Being such an ordinary woman, Imogen wondered by what virtue and grace could she have made such an outstanding man as Jasper, to secretly love her for over a decade, and still hold her in such a fond memory. Imogen took a deep breath, determination settling within her as she turned to Jasper. She declared earnestly, "Jasper, let's give this another try." Jasper gazed at Imogen in astonishment, his eyes shimmering with excitement. When their eyes met, he momentarily lost control and drew her into an embrace. Imogen stiffened, her body tense in his arms. Jasper held her tightly, whispering eagerly in her ear with a trembling voice, "I-Imogen, thank you. I will do everything to make you happy." Imogen gently wrapped her arms around Jasper's waist. Resting her head on his shoulder, she murmured, "I should be the one making the effort. I'll try my best to improve myself, to be someone more worthy of you." Jasper smiled warmly. "Don't be silly. You don't need to change a thing
Jasper's words unsettled Imogen. After a brief hesitation, Imogen asked, "Aren't you concerned they might accuse you of deceiving them? And what about Aunt Eloise? She's fond of Asher and has always wanted me to marry him." Jasper responded calmly, "We'll have to face it eventually." "Okay," Imogen agreed. That night, Jasper was too excited to sleep. He kept talking, sharing words that seemed endless. It wasn't until after Imogen fell asleep that he finally drifted off himself. The next morning, Imogen woke up first, still cradled in Jasper's embrace. Throughout the night, Jasper had held her tightly. Imogen, mindful of potential side leaks, didn't dare move much, and now she felt her waist stiffening. She shifted her body slowly. At that moment, the phone rang twice. Located right by the pillow, Imogen found the sound somewhat jarring, hence she reached over to fetch it. The phone rang twice more. Intrigued, Imogen glanced at the illuminated screen. There wa
Imogen settled into Jasper's car, preparing to visit her parents. Upon calling Carol, she realized that Carol and Gregory had returned to their hometown for a visit. Imogen considered postponing the visit, but Jasper insisted on meeting the Kingsleys today. Thus, they altered their route and set off toward her hometown. Imogen's hometown was a remote and impoverished village, dotted with run-down houses mostly inhabited by elderly residents, women, and children left behind. The roads were muddy and difficult to navigate, adding to the feeling of a laborious journey despite the short distance. As they drove into the village, their arrival seemed to stir up curiosity among the villagers. Local gossiping women emerged to witness the commotion, while children playfully chased after the car. Beneath a large tree, elderly villagers sat, pointing and discussing the arrival of the visitors. Their car halted in front of a dilapidated house, and Imogen felt a pang of unease. She didn't
Throughout the night, Imogen wrestled with unease, her thoughts consumed by Jasper's potential discomfort.Restlessly shifting in bed, she couldn't help but reach for her phone to check on Jasper."Jasper, are you okay? Maybe we should head into town and find a hotel."Jasper responded tersely, "I'm tougher than you give me credit for. If everyone else can sleep, so can I."Imogen pressed on. "But you're not used to staying in such an old room, and the bed is tiny. Besides, my dad snores."Jasper replied with a laughing emoji, its hand covering its mouth. "Dad's already snoring away. But this place isn't bad at all. I'm fine, really—don't worry about me. I can get used to sleeping here."When I was younger, I used to go with my dad on wilderness trips for training. I once slept on the grass in the rain all night and was perfectly fine the next day. It's no big deal."Imogen asked, "Should we reveal your identity to my parents tomorrow?"Jasper queried, "Will those relatives sti
"Will your mom be okay with this?" Jasper asked, his expression tinged with concern.Imogen hesitated, not wanting to spoil the moment so soon. "I don't think she'll mind."A tender smile spread across Jasper's lips against the backdrop of the romantic, tranquil night. Unable to resist, he gently wrapped his arm around Imogen's shoulder and leaned in to kiss her.Imogen closed her eyes nervously, her lips slightly parting in anticipation.Just as Jasper was about to kiss her, his phone suddenly rang.Startled, Imogen opened her eyes.Jasper frowned, impatiently retrieving his phone to glance at the caller ID.Upon seeing Yulia's name, he swiftly declined the call.As Imogen noticed Yulia's name on the screen, a shadow passed over her expression. Despite this, she pretended not to notice, her lips tightening slightly as she looked up at the moon.After rejecting the call, Jasper quickly set his phone down. He had hoped to pick up where they left off, but the romantic mood had s
Jasper ended the call and returned to sit beside Imogen. Letting out a soft sigh, he glanced at her expression.She seemed unconcerned.Jasper didn't dwell on it. After all, it was simply a business matter.He briefly explained, "We have a new artist who recently signed with the company. She's struggling with depression and is quite emotionally unstable."Imogen was aware of Star Enterprise's subsidiary in film and television.Nevertheless, she hadn't anticipated an artist under their management becoming involved with Jasper, the prominent CEO.Imogen playfully teased, "You must be quite the busy CEO, managing Star Enterprise with its vast reach across multiple industries. It seems like you're a master multitasker, keeping an eye on every single employee!"Jasper furrowed his brow, gazing at Imogen for a moment before catching the undertone in her words. "Imogen, I sense a hint of sarcasm in your comment."Imogen pursed her lips, forcing a strained smile as she gazed up at the
Carol's voice was fraught with anger. "If he truly is General Morrison's son, then you're certainly marrying into a different world! How could this possibly end well? Have his parents been informed? What do they think?""We didn't inform them earlier. They just found out," Imogen replied calmly.Carol's fury intensified upon hearing this. She slapped Imogen's arm in frustration, shouting, "You foolish child! How could you disrespect the Morrison family like this!"Imogen winced, holding her arm in pain. Jasper became concerned and swiftly embraced Imogen, shielding her protectively. He addressed Carol with a serious tone, "Mom, let's discuss this calmly. There's no need for physical aggression."Startled by Jasper's firmness, Carol quickly stepped back, her voice now timid. "I'm sorry! I... I'll speak calmly, I promise. Please... please don't be upset."Jasper couldn't help but detect the anxiety and caution in Carol's tone.Despite being Jasper's parents-in-law, Gregory and Ca
"Mom," Imogen said with a hint of frustration, "You shouldn't jump to conclusions about people."Carol's anger flared at Imogen's words. She retorted sharply, "I've lived longer than you! What could you possibly know?"Feeling resigned, Imogen replied, "Mom, we've reached this point. Whether you accept it or not, we have to move forward."Carol laughed in exasperation, her fists clenched. "How can we not accept it? You've married into a prestigious and wealthy family. We should be ecstatic."But, Imogen, have you seen those female celebrities? They have fame, fortune, and prestigious careers. Yet even after marrying into wealthy families, they still face constant scrutiny!"Some end up doing menial tasks for their mothers-in-law. Do you really think these affluent households can't hire someone for such duties?"It all comes down to social status. If you don't come from a similar background, you'll always feel inferior in your husband's family!"Jasper remained silent as he obser
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