Oliver shot a menacing stare and licked the blood from the corner of his mouth. He grinned viciously. Nathan held himself back from hitting him and shoved him to the ground. Having vented his rage, he pulled out a handkerchief to clean his hands and turned away.Sally blocked his path with both of her hands in displeasure. "You think you can just hit somebody and walk away? Do you care to explain why you did that?"Nathan stared at her in disgust. She had become so unfamiliar to him. She had made a disgrace of her name and her place in his heart. He brushed past her and left Hoffis Manor behind.Sally was startled. She seemed to realize something. She hurried into the study and turned on the listening devices, only to find that they were all out of order. Her face turned pale, and she slumped into a chair.After a few moments, Sally came rushing out of the study. She found Oliver sitting on the couch. He clenched his teeth as he rubbed salve on his wounds."Uncle Oliver," Sall
"Nate, you're back," came Suzanne's soft voice. Nathan's heart skipped a beat. The sweet smile on her face brought him back to life.He had always loved Sally. He just hadn't gotten the butterflies from the impostor the way Sally had made him feel. True love had no reason. It was all about feeling, and such love would never change in a lifetime.After hanging his coat, Nathan walked over to Suzanne. He put his arms around her and held her close. Suzanne stiffened in his arms. She had to lean against his sturdy chest. His embrace was warm and comfortable. She caught a familiar whiff of his pleasant scent.Suzanne's heart raced, and she didn't know what to do. She whispered, "What's going on?""I'm just tired. I need a hug." Nathan held onto her soft body. He closed his eyes, kissed her forehead, and stroked her long hair with his hands.Suzanne lost herself in Nathan's hug. She couldn't withdraw from his tenderness and affection. His whole being filled her heart. She even had
When Suzanne arrived at the hospital with Nathan, the area outside the emergency room was packed with the Morrisons. Their faces were solemn.Daniel hadn't returned home in five years, and now that he was back, it was a matter of life and death. Florence had broken down crying outside the emergency room and was taken to a ward for treatment with intravenous liquids.Earlier, Daniel had been taken to the hospital by two policemen in plain clothes. Suzanne didn't have to ask to understand what was going on.Daniel was rescued over six hours, and it wasn't until the early hours that the doctor emerged from the emergency room. All the Morrisons surrounded the doctor with concern and asked about Daniel's condition.The doctor looked exhausted. He sighed and shook his head. "The situation is not promising. The patient is still in critical condition and has been moved to the ICU for observation. His survival will be a matter of his willpower."Gary could no longer support himself and s
Another police officer couldn't take it either. He covered his face and wept uncontrollably. They would rather have their comrade shot to death than suffer such torture. No one knew how Daniel endured such inhumane pain.Nathan remained silent. Tears trickled slowly down his face as he clenched his fists tightly. His entire body quivered with emotion. He didn't remain in the hospital after the two undercover narcotics officers left.He left the place in the hands of his few brothers and his parents before leaving the hospital with Suzanne. Suzanne knew he was in the throes of grief, so she held his hand quietly on the way back and didn't disturb him.Back in Sudvilla, Nathan told her he would be busy for the next couple of days. He suggested that she take a shower and get some rest while he went to his study to work on something.Nathan didn't go to her room that night. Suzanne slept into the next morning. When she woke up, she found that the spot next to her was cold.She got u
Suzanne was having breakfast in the living room. She was scrolling through her phone to catch up on the news about yesterday's failed missile launch that landed on the Muzat border. Norvania had been roundly condemned, with reports from Muzat and other international news agencies claiming hundreds of deaths. They demanded the highest compensation and apologies.According to Norvania, the missile had strayed off course and accidentally hit a major drug den along the Muzat border. Tons of drugs and hundreds of drug lords were wiped out in the blast.Suzanne grew increasingly worried as she read on.Although the world leaders knew that Norvania's missile had destroyed a drug den, they seemed to turn a blind eye. Instead, they were intent on stirring up tension and trouble.Just then, the voice of the housekeeper broke in, "Mr. Morrison, good morning."Suzanne snapped out of her thoughts and hurried into the foyer. Panting slightly, she glanced nervously at Nathan, who was still as
Having placed a bookmark between the pages, Nathan closed the book and placed it on the coffee table. Suzanne's smile was gentle. "You're up? Are you hungry? I'll have the housekeeper reheat the food for you."Just as Suzanne was about to get to her feet, Nathan pulled her close to him. He hugged her from the side and rested his chin on her shoulder. "I'm not hungry. Just talk to me for now."Suzanne pursed her lips. "Well, what do you want to talk about?"Nathan sighed. "How's Daniel doing?""He's still in the ICU and hasn't improved at all. He's barely holding on with help from a ventilator."Nathan pulled a ring out of his pocket. At the sight of the beautiful ring, Suzanne's heart leaped and she was too moved to speak. It had been six months since they had been married, and he had never given her a ring before."This is something Daniel specifically asked to give to his first love before the incident," Nathan explained.Suzanne's face fell. All her expectations and excit
Nathan's tender gaze rested upon Suzanne's lovely face. He spoke softly, yet with unwavering resolve, "Chubs, let's take things as they come. While it would be wonderful for you to regain your memories, we shouldn't risk lives." "Let's get the best neurosurgeon." Suzanne pleaded with her eyes, blinking earnestly at him. Nathan shook his head firmly. He wasn't prepared to let her take even a 0.01% risk. "Let's discuss this later." Nathan redirected the conversation. "Are you hungry? Shall we go for dinner together?" Suzanne nodded in agreement. Nathan rose from his seat and took her hand.At that precise moment, the doorbell chimed.The maid hurried to answer it and then turned back to Nathan, her nervous voice tinged, "Mr. Morrison, it's Mr. President and his secretary." The two exchanged a glance. Nathan gently caressed Suzanne's head and softly said, "You go ahead and start dinner. I'll tend to Mr. President." Suzanne nodded understandingly. As the maid opened the doo
"It's a toxic nation, nurtured by the government's support for opium growth. Now it's the primary source of almost all the world's narcotics. And as its neighbor, we bear the full brunt of this drug scourge. "Remember the 18 border guards forcibly dosed with drugs? They're now trapped in a daily struggle, living in agony. In Norvania, we've got 20 million addicts, and that number keeps skyrocketing by the day!"Despite the sacrifices of our anti-drug forces, we can't seem to stop the relentless flow of drugs into our country." Donald sank into his seat heavily, his hand pressed to his forehead. His voice was thick with grief and frustration as he said, "What's the use in wiping out just one drug den with a missile? "It's barely scratching the surface with Muzat. The heart of the problem remains completely untouched." Nathan closed his eyes in sorrow and took a deep breath. Donald's tone softened a fraction. "I know you're not one to act rashly. Tell me, what drove you to th
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