The Morrisons crowded around Vera as they asked her how she was doing and showed their concern for her.Suzanne felt out of place, so she decided to leave the ward. Soon, she arrived at the corridor outside the garden on the first floor. She sat on a stone bench and settled her gaze on the shrubbery in the distance sullenly.Suddenly, a man's deep and rich voice shattered the silence. "What are you thinking about?"Suzanne snapped out of her thoughts right away. She tilted her head to look at the source of the voice. Nathan had already stopped next to her at that time and sat on the same bench as well. His presence was strong and domineering, as always.Suzanne's heart tightened at the sight of him. Her body stiffened before she slowly adjusted her sitting posture."Nothing," she replied coolly.Nathan's lips curled into a small smile, though his eyes darkened slightly. He asked in a chilly tone, "Did you overhear our project?"Surprised, Suzanne turned to look at him in con
Nathan gazed at Suzanne meaningfully, a hint of suspicion still tinging his tone."Suzanne, everything that's happened so far will make sense if you've been faking your amnesia the whole time."Suzanne sighed in resignation. She hung her head low before speaking up in a self-deprecating tone, "You're saying that I got cosmetic surgery and formed a close bond with Grandma just so I could marry you and stay by your side. "Apparently, I don't give a damn about money and social standing because all I want is to steal confidential files about Norvania. If I've truly faked my amnesia, then I guess I'm one hell of a spy, then."Nathan responded, "Precisely."Suzanne could only smile helplessly. "Now that my identity is about to get exposed, I'm more than eager to get a divorce with you. That's why all the puzzles fit the frame. It all makes sense."Nathan fell silent.Suzanne raised her head to look at the sky, feeling an invisible hand gripping her heart. She felt so suffocated that
Suzanne didn't stay in Shovale or Sudvilla during the next few days. Instead, she borrowed a few thousand dollars from the card Nathan had given her just so she could rent a small apartment and buy some necessities.She didn't have an educational background, nor did she know if she had any skills fit for any type of work. Hence, she decided to buy flowers in bulk at Floral Market and sell them from behind her flower cart at a designated square.Suzanne was able to earn a steady flow of cash thanks to this job. In less than half a month, she was able to save up enough money to repay the debt.For her, life was simple and happy. At the same time, she focused her efforts on preparing Vera's birthday gift.Suzanne knew Vera adored classical themes. Hence, she spent half a month producing an embroidery painting of "Starry Night".It was 8:00 am on Vera's birthday when Suzanne was awoken by the sounds of the doorbell ringing. She got out of bed blearily and made sure to comb her hair be
It was then Sally noticed the embroidery that Suzanne had yet to put away. She was shocked to find out that Suzanne was insanely talented to the point that she could embroider a famous painting onto the sewing hoop. Not a detail was out of place, and the image looked as amazing as the real deal."Did you embroider it yourself?" Sally pointed at the embroidery while sounding jealous.Suzanne quickly snapped out of her trance. She strode over to the embroidery and started packing it up hurriedly.Her panic drove her to move as quickly as she could, but Sally was faster. The latter dug out a bottle of red liquid from her handbag and splashed it onto the embroidery hoop. The sudden destruction shocked Suzanne to her core. She was unable to stop the liquid from seeping through the fabric, causing the pattern to be dyed red instantly.Enraged by Sally's actions, Suzanne asked, "Have you lost your mind?"Sally just smirked in response. Clearly, she couldn't care less about Suzanne. A
Cole showed up outside Suzanne's apartment block at 5:00 pm. He was surprised when he saw Suzanne.She wasn't wearing the dress Nathan had given her. Instead, she wore a plain, light blue dress. The only accessory she wore was a light blue ribbon, which was used to put her hair up in a ponytail.The light makeup adorning Suzanne's face, coupled with the plain yet pretty dress she wore, made her look pure and innocent."Mrs. Morrison, you…" Cole stared at Suzanne in surprise, though his sentence came to a staggering end. He had a feeling that he shouldn't be asking her any questions related to her appearance.Suzanne was still a little down. After nodding at Cole as a form of acknowledgment, she opted to stay quiet.Cole noticed that she wasn't carrying anything with her, so he decided to drop her a reminder in a roundabout way. "Mrs. Morrison, did you forget something?""No," Suzanne replied.Cole didn't say anything more and opened the car door for Suzanne. After she got in the
A happy smile adorned Sally's face. Her excitement seemed a little over the top, as though she was trying to show off."Really? Wendy and Cheryl want to show me something amazing? Wow, I can't wait to see it!"Then, she nodded at Suzanne before continuing politely, "Well then, Suzanne, Madam Florence and I will be taking our leave. We'll hang out with you later."After that, Sally and Florence walked away happily while holding hands.Suzanne felt hollow on the inside. She didn't know what else to feel at the moment. Hence, she could only sink back into her chair and take a sip from her glass of lemon water.She remained silent as though she was an outsider merely spectating the banquet. Her presence formed a jarring contrast to the boisterous banquet that was going on in full swing around her. It made her look extremely out of place.Ten minutes later, Sally returned to Suzanne's table. This time, she brought Wendy Lynch, the eldest sister-in-law, and Cheryl Manson, the second
Nathan was clad in a custom-made black tuxedo. Not only did it bring out the outline of his lean figure, but it also made him look elegant and refined. He looked extremely handsome in it.Suzanne could only stare into Nathan's mesmerizing eyes. Whenever she saw him, her heart would start pounding wildly. She tended to freeze up as well.Right now, she was so nervous that she didn't know what to say.Meanwhile, a small frown graced Nathan's features as he studied Suzanne's appearance. A hint of disappointment flickered across his eyes.He respected Suzanne's decision. That was why he didn't force her to wear the dress, nor did he question her why she didn't wear it."Have you met Grandma yet?" Nathan asked coolly.Suzanne shook her head wordlessly in response. She was afraid that the trembling in her voice might betray her feelings of sadness and aggrievance if she were to speak.Nathan was the type whose presence could reassure Suzanne greatly. She wanted nothing more than to re
Feeling quite touched, Suzanne turned to look up at Nathan, who stood next to her. He was only six feet tall, yet he exhibited a powerful air that made him look reliable and dependable.Sally approached Vera with a paper tube in hand. She flashed her a smile before saying, "Grandma, I'm Sally Hoffis. Do you still remember me?"Vera's smile slowly faded away as she narrowed her eyes in response. Of course, she'd always remember that homewrecker's stupid face."Not really," Vera replied lightly.Sally didn't mind that answer at all. It was completely normal for Vera to forget her, seeing as she had Alzheimer's.She couldn't care less about what Vera thought. All she wanted to do was steal the thunder at the birthday banquet so that she could leave an even more flawless impression on Nathan and the Morrisons.Sally wanted to amaze everyone in the banquet hall with both her beauty and her compassion for Vera."Bring them in!" she ordered loudly.A few housekeepers moved a few table
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