Nathan seemed to be warming the milk, but he was actually trying to calm himself. Mila's presence had been unsettling to him.After sitting down, Mila removed her scarf and gloves before surveying the room. She found that nothing had changed. The room remained spacious, simple, and organized. It perfectly reflected Nathan's straightforward and tidy personality.Nathan went over to Mila with the glass of milk and offered it to her.Mila looked up at him and slowly accepted it. "Thank you."Nathan felt a sudden sting of pain when he touched her cold fingertips. She wasn't warm enough even though she was bundled up.He sat across from her and watched her calmly. Mila felt a little uncomfortable under his gaze. She took a sip of the warm milk to ease her discomfort.The room fell silent, and there was tension in the air.Mila held the glass nervously and looked into Nathan's quiet eyes. "Everyone's been talking about it lately, even Cole knows. Why didn't you ask me about it?"Bi
Nathan was in a daze. He slumped forward with his elbows on his knees and his hands covering his face. He took deep breaths in an attempt to calm the storm of emotions inside him.After a few moments, he lifted his head to look at Mila with reddened eyes. He asked bitterly, "Wanda Hoffis, what do you think of me? You treat me like a convenience. You reach out to me when you need me and shut me out when you don't."And now, you're telling me that you want to marry me. Do you really think I, Nathan Morrison, am only meant to marry you?"His words of lament weighed heavily on Mila's heart. She felt a deep sadness that seemed to affect even the baby in her womb. It began to kick violently."I'm sorry," Mila apologized sincerely. She stood up, put on her scarf and gloves, and added, "I didn't give it enough thought. I'm sorry to have bothered you."She stepped out the door, leaving Nathan alone on the couch. His eyes were dull and hollow, and his face was marked with sorrow. His de
Mila woke up at 6:00 am before the sun rose. Even though she was still sleepy, she freshened up and got ready to leave. When she opened the door, she found Nathan waiting outside. He was dressed for the occasion, wearing a sharp black suit that made him look more elegant than usual."Good morning," Nathan greeted her warmly.Mila looked down at her coat and felt that she wasn't as well dressed as he was. "Shall I change my outfit, General Morrison?""It's okay," Nathan reassured her. He held her hand as they left. He didn't let go of her hand the whole way, as if he was afraid that she was going to change her mind. He held her hand on the plane and even after their landing.They arrived at City Hall, where they were given priority registration because it was a military wedding. They quickly completed the paperwork. Mila was still half asleep when they finally got the marriage certificate.The soft light of dawn enveloped them as they walked out of City Hall. Nathan held out hi
Mila nestled into Nathan's chest, looked up at him, and whispered, "I'll call you General Morrison when we're on the military base, but when we're alone, I'll call you Nate, okay?"Nathan held her waist and looked down at her. He was mesmerized by her tender gaze and sweet voice. "Alright," he agreed.Mila smiled at him and asked, "So, where are we going now? Back to the base?""We're going back to Sudvilla," Nathan replied."We're going back to the base tomorrow?" Mila asked."Aren't we supposed to get a honeymoon period after we get married?""Aren't you swamped by work?""I don't have to do it all myself. I have assistants," Nathan said."But I'm very busy," Mila teased."You're not," Nathan replied with a grin."Are you spying on my work?"Nathan gently caressed the back of her head, his expression serious as he said, "Wanda, I have only one request of you.""What is it?" Mila asked.Nathan's eyes bored into hers as he said solemnly, "Promise me that you'll never betra
"Mom, Wanda's expecting," Nathan said joyfully.Gary and Florence looked at Mila's stomach in surprise. Their surprise was quickly replaced by delight. "Expecting? Already?"Mila nodded shyly. "I've been pregnant for over six months."Florence was over the moon. She eagerly walked over to Mila, took her by the arm, and leaned down to look at her stomach."Oh dear, you've been pregnant for half a year. I've been worried sick about you and Nate for the last six months, and it turns out that the two of you had it all planned out. Why haven't you told me?""I'm sorry, Florence, I—" Mila started.Florence cut her off. "No, no. There's no need to be sorry. You'll stay here from now on and I'll take care of you. I'm worried about you staying with Nate. Whatever your appetite is, tell me and I'll make it for you.""Mom, I can take care of her. You don't have to worry," Nathan chimed in.Florence frowned at him. "You're a man, and you've never had a child. How are you going to take care
After letting go of Mila, Sienna took her hand and led her into the house. "Come in and have a seat."Mila entered the living room and looked around. "Where's Daniel?""Daniel? He's in the gym." Sienna pointed at another room.Mila hurried over with Nathan close behind. After knocking on the door, Daniel's deep voice came through. "Come in."Mila pushed the door open and saw Daniel, looking muscular and handsome. She felt a surge of excitement. The Daniel she remembered as weak and hopeless, who had lost his desire to live, was nowhere to be seen.He had found his strength again. He appeared even more robust and vibrant than when Mila had last seen him in the drug den. His attractive face now radiated with life."Daniel, it's me, Wanda." Mila's voice trembled with emotion as she slowly approached him.Even though Daniel couldn't see, his legs had regained strength through acupuncture, physiotherapy, and regular exercise."Wanda?" Daniel's face lit up with a smile. He put down
Sienna leaped off the couch as soon as she noticed Daniel sprinting toward her. "What else can you do besides chasing me, loser?" she asked. "You can't catch me, but you won't admit you're a loser. Why are you being so annoying?""Sienna, I'm kicking you out if I catch you," Daniel warned as he moved around confidently. Even though he didn't run into any obstacles, he still couldn't catch Sienna."Talk to me when you actually catch me. Then we'll see if you can kick me out.""You're toast. I'll hang you on the maple tree until you're dried up.""Sure," Sienna called out with a laugh. "Come on, loser."Nathan and Mila exchanged glances. He took her hand and suggested, "Let's go."Mila watched them chase each other down the hallway. It was like a blind eagle trying to catch a playful and nimble chick."We don't have to worry about them," Nathan reassured.Hand in hand, Mila followed Nathan out of the house as they strolled along the path in the maple forest."Daniel's recoveri
Mila was startled, and the memories came flooding back to her. She realized that Nathan had gotten it all wrong from the very beginning."You're fine with a loveless marriage, but have you considered my feelings?" Nathan asked. He tried to control his emotions even though he felt hurt.Mila stomped her foot in anger. "Nate, I didn't marry you just because Grandma wanted me to.""Why, then?""I've been secretly crushing on you for three years!" Mila blurted out.Nathan froze and stared at her incredulously.Mila's cheeks grew warm. She shyly lowered her eyes and whispered, "I've had a crush on you for a long time."Nathan grabbed her shoulders in excitement and looked her in the eyes. Tears welled in his eyes, and his hands trembled as he asked, "Did you just say you had a crush on me?Mila blushed and nodded, unable to look him in the eyes."For three years?" Nathan asked again. He was still in disbelief. "From the time you knew me when you were still Suzanne?"Mila nodded on
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